 Subjects -> CONSERVATION (Total: 128 journals)
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- Echolocation call characterization of insectivorous bats from caves and
karst areas in southern Luzon Island, Philippines
Authors: Renz Angelo Duco, Anna Pauline de Guia, Judeline Dimalibot, Phillip Alviola, Juan Carlos Gonzalez
Pages: 23931 - 23951
Abstract: Bats are excellent bioindicators and are increasingly used to assess ecosystem health and monitor changes in the environment. Due to increased awareness of the potential transmission of pathogens from bats to humans and recognizing the limitations of traditional bat sampling methods, the use of of non-invasive sampling techniques such as bat recorders were recommended for field-based monitoring studies. In the Philippines, however, bat bioacoustics is still a growing field, and the scarcity of acoustic data hinders the use of echolocation calls to conduct accurate inventories and population monitoring of echolocating bats. Here, we recorded and characterized echolocation calls of insectivorous bats from caves and karst areas located in southern Luzon Island, Philippines. In addition, we compared our results with other studies performed within and outside the country to identify possible regional and local variation in acoustic characters for some species. A total of 441 echolocation calls were recorded from six bat families: Hipposideridae (five species), Rhinolophidae (five species), Vespertilionidae (three species), Miniopteridae (two species), Megadermatidae (one species), and Emballonuridae (one species). Discriminant function analyses (DFA) with leave-one-out cross validation correctly classified bats emitting calls dominated with a constant frequency (CF) component (rhinolophids and hipposiderids) with >97% success and those producing frequency modulated (FM) calls (Miniopteridae and Vespertilionidae) with 88.9% success. We report echolocation calls for Philippine population of two species (Megaderma spasma and Hipposideros lekaguli) for the first time. Moreover, we present geographical variations in call frequencies for some species by comparing previously reported acoustic data elsewhere across the species’ range. This underscores the importance of establishing a readily accessible and comprehensive local reference library of echolocation calls which would serve as a valuable resource for examining taxonomic identities of echolocating bats, particularly those whose calls exhibit biogeographic variations.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8597.15.10.23931-23951
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Seasonality, diversity, and forest type associations of macro moths
(Insecta: Lepidoptera: Heterocera) in the Shiwalik landscape of northern
India and its conservation implications
Authors: Arun Pratap Singh, Lekhendra
Pages: 23952 - 23976
Abstract: A study was carried out to evaluate the seasonal diversity of macro moths across different forest sub-types occurring in the
Shiwalik landscape of northern India, mainly Uttarakhand and adjoining states of Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana. Fortythree field surveys of 59 days were carried out from July 2020 to October 2022 using stratified random sampling in each of the 19 selected study sites. Sampling surveys revealed 321 species of moths belonging to 19 families and 49 sub-families. These new range extensions from central Himalaya and northeastern India indicate the affinity of moths found in the northern Indian Shiwaliks with that of the Oriental region. Seasonal trend of species richness showed two annual peaks, with the first peak occurring in August followed by a smaller peak in October, while the seasonal abundance of moth species was maximum in July followed by a smaller peak in September. One-hundredand-forty species occurred only during the ‘monsoon’ season indicating their seasonality, univoltine habit and short flight periods in these tropical forests. Species richness of moths correlated positively with relative humidity (r2 = 0.100; p = 0.0142; n = 59). The most dominant family was Erebidae (95 species) followed by Geometriidae (61), Crambidae (72), and Noctuidae (28), respectively. Maximum number of moth species were sampled in forest sub-type (i) 3C/C2a Moist Shiwalik Sal Forest, followed by (ii) 5B/C2 Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest, (iii) 3C/C2c Moist Tarai Sal Forest, iv) 5B/C1a Dry Shiwalik Sal Forest, respectively. The study also revealed changing moth communities along with the vegetation structure in the Shiwaliks from east (Nandhaur Willife Sanctaury in Uttarakhand bordering Nepal) to west (Simbalbara National Park in Himachal Pradesh,India) across the landscape. The moth communities of (i) 3C/C2a Moist Shiwalik Sal Forest & (ii) 3C/C2c Moist Tarai Sal Forest being different from that of (iii) 5B/C2 Northern Dry Mixed Deciduous Forest, and (iv) 5B/C1a Dry Shiwalik Sal Forest. Besides, six new range extensions into Shiwaliks of northern India from central Nepal and northeastern India, namely: Chlorozancla falcatus (Butler, 1889) (Geometridae); Cynaeda dichroalis (Hampson, 1903), Dichocrocis pyrrhalis (Walker, 1859) & Glyphodes canthusalis Walker, 1859 (Crambidae); and Acropteris iphiata (Guenée, 1857) (Uranidae) were recorded.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8478.15.10.23952-23976
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Vertebrate assemblages on fruiting figs in the Indian eastern Himalaya’s
Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary
Authors: Akangkshya Priya Gogoi, Janmejay Sethy, Awadhesh Kumar, Dipika Parbo, Murali Krishna Chatakonda, Ajay Maletha
Pages: 23977 - 23989
Abstract: Ficus is undeniably one of the most important plants in the tropical forest in the Indian eastern Himalaya. The species composition and assemblages were analysed on fruiting figs on the west bank of Pakke Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS), Arunachal Pradesh. Figs trees are often ecologically significant keystone species because they sustain the population of the many seed-dispersing animals that feed on these fruits. This research endeavors to comprehend the dynamics of vertebrate assemblages inhabiting fruiting figs within the West bank of PWS. Over a span of 60 days and a cumulative 89 hours of observation, both direct sightings and indirect indicators of vertebrate presence were integrated. The outcome revealed a diverse spectrum of 54 vertebrate species, comprising 43 avian and 11 mammalian species, distributed across four Ficus species; concurrently, alternative plant species accommodated 28 avian and four mammalian species. Among these, the pre-eminence of green pigeons within Ficus species underscores their feeding behaviors, underscoring the vital role of figs as a dietary cornerstone within PWS’s west bank. Notably, the comparative underrepresentation of vertebrates on the local fig species Ficus drupacea offers intriguing insights. The findings substantiate the significance of figs as a nourishment resource and instigate the necessity for extended investigations to fully unravel the intricate reliance of vertebrates on Ficus species within the tapestry of tropical forests.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8549.15.10.23977-23989
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- From the Arabian Peninsula to Indian shores: Crab Plover Dromas ardeola
Paykull, 1805 (Aves: Charadriiformes: Dromadidae) breeding at Point
Calimere, India
Authors: H. Byju, N. Raveendran, K.M. Aarif
Pages: 23990 - 23995
Abstract: Crab Plover Dromas ardeola is endemic to the subtropical and tropical coastlines of the Indian Ocean. It breeds along the eastern
coasts of Africa, the Persian Gulf, and southern coasts of the Arabian Peninsula; occurs also in the western Madagascar and most islands northwards to Seychelles. It is a winter visitor to Pakistan, Gujarat, and peninsular India, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, northern Sri Lanka, Maldives, and a vagrant to Bangladesh. The objective of this study was to assess the breeding records of the Crab Plover in Point Calimere. After some preliminary surveys and interactions with local birders, between June and August 2023, boat surveys and foot surveys were carried out in the Great Vedaryanam Swamp (GVS) and nearby islets to document the presence of Crab Plover and locate its nests. The presence of five nests of D. ardeola was recorded in Manaaran Theevu islet near Siruthalaikkadu of GVS. This observation marks the first documentation of breeding of Crab Plover in the Indian subcontinent. In the context of species conservation within the peninsular Indian region, there is a need for comprehensive and continuous monitoring of breeding sites.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8680.15.10.23990-23995
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Assessing avian diversity and conservation status in Dighal Wetlands,
Haryana, India
Authors: Parul, Parmesh Kumar
Pages: 23996 - 24008
Abstract: Birds are considered sensitive indicators of ecosystem health and functionality in freshwater wetlands. Assessment of bird
assemblages in wetland habitats is, therefore, emphasised from a sustainable management perspective. Bird surveys were conducted from October 2020 to September 2022. These surveys aimed to assess the community composition and status of avifauna in Dighal wetlands, an important bird area in the Jhajjar District of Haryana, India. Data collection employed point counts and opportunistic encounter methods. A total of 154 bird species belonging to 108 genera, 47 families, and 18 orders were recorded. Of these, 75 species were residents, 60 were winter migrants, and 10 were summer migrants. The greatest species richness was observed for the order Passeriformes (54), followed by Charadriiformes (22), Anseriformes (17), and the rest of the 15 orders. Anatidae was the most dominant family with 17 species, constituting 11% of the bird community in the study area. Data on local abundance revealed that 10 species were common, 23 were fairly common, 83 were uncommon, and 38 were rare in the study area. Among the recorded avifauna, one species is classified as Endangered, three as Vulnerable, and eight as Near Threatened in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species; 17 species are listed in the Appendices of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES); and 11 are included in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. These wetlands also support 40 species of birds, which have a declining population trend globally. The occurrence of migrants and species of global conservation priority underscores the importance of these wetlands as a conservation site and wintering ground for avifauna due to the extensive food resources and rich biodiversity they support. The present study provides baseline information for future research on monitoring bird assemblages and proper management of the Dighal wetlands of Haryana.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8283.15.10.23996-24008
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Studies on the response of House Sparrow Passer domesticus to artificial
nest-boxes in rural Arakkonam and Nemili taluks, Vellore District, Tamil
Nadu, India
Authors: M. Pandian
Pages: 24009 - 24015
Abstract: This study evaluated the response of House Sparrows Passer domesticus to artificial nest-boxes installed in human dwellings in 30 villages in Arakkonam and Nemili taluks, Vellore District, Tamil Nadu between February and July 2019, with help of school students who installed 245 artificial nest-boxes in their houses. House Sparrows attempted to build nests in 32 nest-boxes by frequent visits, built partial nests in 51, and built active nests followed by successful breeding in 32 nest-boxes; there was no response to the remaining 130. A significant relationship was detected between the type of house and the adoption of boxes by the birds. The maximum response was seen in tiled houses, followed by concrete and thatched houses. House Sparrows preferred nest-boxes placed at heights between 3 and 4 m. At the end of the breeding season, a total of 80 chicks successfully emerged from 32 active nests. Some mortality in adult birds due to ceiling fans and predatory animals such as House Crows and Domestic Cats was reported. Active nests in nest-boxes and birds were found in villages where mobile phone towers were installed. Of 32 active nests enumerated in nest-boxes, 22 were found within a 500 m radius of mobile phone towers, two from 500–1,000 m and eight from 1,000–2,000 m. Further study is planned to examine the relationship between mobile towers and nest site selection by sparrows. A survey done through a questionnaire reveals that 95% of residents were aware of and concerned about the declining populations of House Sparrow.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8324.15.10.24009-24015
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Threat assessment and conservation challenges for the herpetofaunal
diversity of Dampa Tiger Reserve, Mizoram, India
Authors: Sushanto Gouda, Ht. Decemson, Zoramkhuma, Fanai Malsawmdawngliana, Lal Biakzuala, Hmar Tlawmte Lalremsanga
Pages: 24016 - 24031
Abstract: Herpetofauna is an important group of vertebrates with key functions in ecosystem sustenance. Nonetheless, with ever-increasing anthropogenic activities and lack of evidence-based studies, about 80% of the herpetofauna diversity of southern Asian region is threatened. Our study reports 80 herpetofauna species distributed across different habitat types in Dampa Tiger Reserve (DTR), Mizoram. We revise the amphibian list of DTR throughthe addition of seven species and establish the identity of cryptic species such as Microhyla ornata which is actually two distinct species,i.e., M. mukhlesuri and M. mymensinghensis. Through the questionnaire survey, it was found that 90% of the respondents depended on varied forms of forest resources. Herpetofaunal species account for 30% of the faunal resources with Varanus bengalensis, Ophiophagus hannah, and Python bivittatus being the most consumed reptile species. All chelonians and some amphibians like Duttaphrynus melanostictus, Pterorana khare, Hoplobatrachus tigerinus, Hoplobatrachus litoralis, Hydrophylax leptoglossa, Minervarya asmati, Polypedates teraiensis, and Sylvirana lacrima were also found to be consumed and used for their presumed medicinal values. In addition to hunting, road-kills, use of chemical pesticides, and habitat alteration were recorded to be the prominent threats in the region. The land use and land cover (LULC) data shows a steady recovery of dense forest and a better forest fire scenario as over 90% of the DTR core region falls in the ‘low severity’ and ‘unburned’ category. With continuous alteration in forested areas, the present study will not only provide a fundamental baseline for the conservation of herpetofauna and better management of protected areas but also stimulate future herpetological-based research.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8590.15.10.24016-24031
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Taxonomy and conservation status of swamp eels (Synbranchiformes:
Synbranchidae) of West Bengal, India
Authors: Ram Krishna Das
Pages: 24032 - 24042
Abstract: In a comprehensive study spanning January 2019 to April 2023 within the state of West Bengal, the research focused on elucidating
the taxonomy and conservation status of swamp eels in the state. Swamp eels were harvested using traditional fishing techniques, and
sampling sites were randomly selected across nine districts: Cooch Behar, Alipurduar, Jalpaiguri, Uttar Dinajpur, Purba Bardhaman, Nadia, Purba Medinipore, North 24 Parganas, and South 24 Parganas, accounting for variations in climatic zones and topography. Through meticulous examination involving X-ray radiographs and morphometric measurements, two distinct swamp eel species, Ophichthys cuchia (Hamilton, 1822) and Ophisternon bengalense McClelland, 1844, were identified, both falling under the ‘Least Concern’ category according to the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Rapid population decline of swamp eels in West Bengal is primarily attributed to habitat degradation and the indiscriminate use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8595.15.10.24032-24042
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Sacred river of Pune: boon or bane for the diversity of aquatic beetles
(Insecta: Coleoptera)
Authors: Rita Deb, Pallavi Takawane, K.A. Subramanian
Pages: 24043 - 24053
Abstract: Aquatic beetles are potential indicators of freshwater ecosystem and play an important role in food web and nutrient cycling. Parameters like pH, temperature, conductivity, total dissolved solids, salinity, and dissolved oxygen, are important water quality parameters. The present study is focused on the diversity of aquatic beetles and assessing water quality parameters of the sacred Indrayani River from various sites namely Valvan, Kamshet, Warangwadi, Begadewadi, Moshigaon, Alandi, Dhanore, and Tulapur. A total of 94 examples of aquatic beetles belonging to 31 species under 19 genera and four families from Indrayani River were recorded along with water quality parameters.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8514.15.10.24043-24053
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Fine structure of sensilla on the proboscis of the Indian Honey Bee Apis
cerana indica Fabricius (Insecta: Hymenoptera: Apidae)
Authors: A.G. Suhas Krishna, Shamprasad Varija Raghu, Rajashekhar K. Patil
Pages: 24054 - 24062
Abstract: Honey bees feed on flowers from which they collect nectar and pollen and their mouth parts are designed for fluid-feeding
from flowers. The proboscis consists of a ‘tongue’ that includes a long glossa and ends in a spoon-shaped labellum, labial palp, galea and mandibles. The sensilla on the proboscis assists in nectar feeding. A study of the chemosensory hairs on the proboscis was carried out in Apis cerana indica collected from apiaries at the foot of Western Ghats, India. Light- and scanning electron microscopy were employed. In addition, silver staining was carried out to distinguish different types of chemosensilla. The glossa has 60 sensilla chaetica that stain by silver nitrate technique. The length (110 μ), width (2 μ) and spacing of microtrichia on glossa and forked hairs on the labellum are suited for the collection of nectar due to viscosity and to reduce leakiness while feeding. The length of the glossa being short suggests that A. cerana indica feeds on small-sized flowers that are not tubular. The labial palp has sensilla chaetica A and sensilla chaetica B distinguished by their length and sensilla basiconica, all of which are silver nitrate-positive and thus chemosensory in nature. Distal galea has sensilla basiconica, sensilla chaetica A and B and sensilla coeloconica. The maxillary palp is a mechanosensory structure. The bulge on the galea near the maxillary palp has chemosensory sensilla chaetica. Mandibular hairs did not stain with silver and are hence mechanosensory. The sensilla on proboscis in A. cerana indica is comparable to mouth part sensilla in Apis mellifera and Apis florea. The position of the chemosensilla at different regions suggests their role in tasting nectar, detecting the flow of nectar, and the dimensions of the flower and pollen.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8548.15.10.24054-24062
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- A compendium of Aphelenchoides (Fischer, 1894) (Nematoda: Tylenchina:
Aphelenchoidea) nematodes with the description of a new species from
Manipur, India
Authors: Loukrakpam Bina Chanu, Naorem Mohilal
Pages: 24063 - 24078
Abstract: The present compendium is based on the findings of a research work on the survey of nematodes belonging to the family Aphelenchoidea in the northeastern states of India and the literature available on this particular species, mainly from Manipur. During the study, a total of 12 Aphelenchoides spp. were found, among which six species were reported for the first time from Manipur. A new species, Aphelenchoides oryzae is also described in the present article. The present study will help in making us understand the biodiversity status of Aphelenchoides nematodes in the region. Diagnosis of the species and illustrations along with dichotomous keys are provided in the manuscript.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8420.15.10.24063-24078
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Efficacy of levamisole and oxyclozanide treatment on gastrointestinal
nematodes of ungulates at the Central Zoo, Nepal
Authors: Pratik Kiju, Amir Sadaula, Parbat Jung Thapa, Chiranjibi Prasad Pokheral
Pages: 24079 - 24085
Abstract: The efficacy evaluation of levamisole and oxyclozanide treatment on the gastrointestinal nematodes of ungulates at the central zoo, Nepal was carried out from June—August 2021. A total of 40 fecal samples were collected from 10 species of ungulates from the central zoo for determining the efficacy of the anthelmintic given at day 0 of pretreatment and post-treatment analysis on day 07 and day 14. The concentration method (floatation concentration) was used for the microscopic examination of eggs, and quantitative examination (EPG) of nematode eggs was carried out with the help of modified McMaster slides. The identification was done using an optic micrometer and fecal egg culture. Anthelmintic resistance status was evaluated by the Fecal Egg Count Reduction Technique (FECRT) based on the method described by the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology (WAAVP) guidelines and with the Bayesian hierarchical model. Out of 40 samples, nematode prevalence was found to be 68%, in which single infection was detected in 48% and double infection in 52%. The efficacy of Zanide L forte (levamisole-0.75 g and oxyclozanide-1.00 g) was found to be 85% (UI 80-89) at day 07 and 89% (UI 85-92) at day 14 by using Hierarchical Modelling of Fecal Egg count based on ‘eggCounts-2.3 on R version 3.6.1 and 86% (CI 61.51–95%) at day 07 and 90% (CI 74.18–95%) at day 14 by WAAVP guidelines. This study represents the first documented case of ineffectiveness of anthelmintic treatment resulting in anthelmintic resistance in the central zoo. Thus, there is a requirement for a suitable and efficacious anthelmintic program.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8236.15.10.24079-24085
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Ocimum gratissimum L. ssp. gratissimum var. macrophyllum Briq. (Lamiaceae:
Nepetoideae: Ocimeae) a new record from northeastern India
Authors: Mamita Kalita, Nilakshee Devi, Diganta Narzary
Pages: 24086 - 24091
Abstract: The genus Ocimum means fragrant-lipped, characterized by the presence of the upper lobe of the calyx, which is large and
decurrent. Ocimum gratissimum L. is conventionally known as Clove Basil due to its foliage which smells like cloves. The present study
reports the extant distribution of O. gratissimum L. ssp. gratissimum var. macrophyllum Briq. across northeastern India. It is a new
distribution record for the flora of Assam and northeastern India. A comprehensive description along with photographs, taxonomic notes, and diagnostic keys has been provided to aid identification.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8544.15.10.24086-24091
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- The study of biogeographic patterns of the genus Parmotrema in Wayanad
District, Kerala with a new record in India
Authors: Bibin Joseph, Edathumthazhe Kuni Sinisha, Valiya Thodiyil Jaseela, Harshid Pulparambil, Nedumparambil Sukumaran Pradeep
Pages: 24092 - 24103
Abstract: This research focuses on Wayanad District within the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve of the Western Ghats, a renowned hotspot for
lichen diversity. A thorough investigation documented 10 distinct Parmotrema species, with one newly identified species (Parmotrema
clavuliferum). Each species was comprehensively described, encompassing their morphological, chemical, and biogeographical
characteristics. The core objective of this study revolves around conservation and sustainable utilization of this valuable bioresource.
This research contributes to our understanding of lichen ecosystems, particularly in regions facing diverse threats, and underscores the importance of the Wayanad District within the broader context of biodiversity conservation.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8570.15.10.24092-24103
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Diversity of Calliphoridae and Polleniidae (Diptera) in the Himalaya,
India
Authors: Meenakshi Bharti
Pages: 24104 - 24115
Abstract: The family Calliphoridae (Diptera: Calyptratae: Oestroidea) is primarily known for its synanthropic, necrophagous, and myiasis–causing species. This study presents an updated checklist of blow fly species recorded in the Himalayan regions of India, Nepal, and Pakistan. The dataset includes 23 genera and 69 Species from Indian Himalayas, 18 genera and 52 species from the Pakistani Himalayas, and 22 genera and 74 species from Nepalese Himalaya. The data is categorised into three elevation zones: the Shivalik range (350–1,200 m), Lesser Himalaya (1200-2,200 m), and Upper Himalaya (2,200 m and above) taking into consideration factors such as vegetation, temperature, and other environmental variables. The Sorensen Similarity Index was utilized to quantify the degree of species overlap and similarity among blow fly communities within these elevation ranges.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8603.15.10.24104-24115
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- First photographic evidence of mange manifestation in Panna Tiger Reserve,
India
Authors: Supratim Dutta, Krishnamurthy Ramesh
Pages: 24116 - 24119
Abstract: We report the first ever photographic evidence of mangeinfested
Golden Jackal Canis aureus from Panna Tiger Reserve, central
India. The infected animals were photo-captured during the ongoing
camera trap sampling in 2019 as a part of a long-term study on the
ecology of reintroduced tigers and co-predators. This new record
triggers wildlife health and monitoring issues and, subsequently,
the importance of restricting the disease outbreak and treatment
measures among other associated species within the protected area.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8699.15.10.24116-24119
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- New locality record of Forest Spotted Gecko Cyrtodactylus (Geckoella) cf.
speciosus (Beddome, 1870) (Reptilia: Squamata: Gekkonidae) from Thanjavur,
in the eastern coastal plains of Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Gopal Murali
Pages: 24120 - 24124
Abstract: The study of species distributions is critical for gaining insights into biogeographic patterns and for the protection of threatened species. Here, I report on the new distributional record of the Forest Spotted Gecko (Cyrtodacylus cf. speciosus) from Thanjavur in the coastal plains of Tamil Nadu. This observation marks the first documented occurrence of this species outside its typical hilly habitat in southern India.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8612.15.10.24120-24124
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Preliminary observations of moth (Lepidoptera) fauna of Purna Wildlife
Sanctuary, Gujarat, India
Authors: Preeti Choudhary, Indu Sharma
Pages: 24125̵ - 24125̵
Abstract: Purna Wildlife Sanctuary is located in the Sahyadri range in Dang District of Gujarat State. A survey of the sanctuary was conducted to explore moth fauna from the area, as no previous work is available on this group. Thus, an attempt has been made to study the moth fauna based on collections made from April 2019 to March 2021 under the various ranges of the sanctuary. During the studies, a list of 42 species referable to 39 genera and nine families have been provided.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8702.15.10.24125–24130
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- On the occurrence of Audouinella chalybea (Roth) Bory, 1823, a rare
freshwater red algae (Florideophyceae: Acrochaetiales: Audouinellaceae)
from eastern Himalaya, India
Authors: Jai Prakash Keshri, Jay Mal
Pages: 24131 - 24134
Abstract: Audouinella chalybea (Roth) Bory has been recorded from Phamrong falls of Sikkim Himalaya. Well developed plants of the alga were found attached to the stones and pebbles in the running outlets of the falls. The plants were found anchored to the substratum by spine like base attachment cells. Such structure has not been recorded in earlier studies. Both monosporangia and tetrasporangia have been recorded in our plants. This is the first report of the species from eastern Himalaya and appears to be the second report from India.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8177.15.10.24131-24134
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Addition of four invasive alien plant species to state flora of Mizoram,
India
Authors: Lal Tlanhlui, Margaret Lalhlupuii, Sanatombi Devi Yumkham, Sandhyarani Devi Khomdram
Pages: 24135 - 24139
Abstract: Four alien plant species that have been naturalized in the state of Mizoram are reported for the first time as an addition to the state flora. These are Achimenes longiflora DC. & Chrysothemis pulchella (Donn ex Sims) Decne. from Gesneriaceae family and Cuscuta campestris Yunck. & Stylosanthes guianensis (Aubl.) Sw. from Convolvulaceae & Fabaceae families, respectively. The present report of the occurrence of these four invasive alien plant species in the state will allow for early detection, risk assessment, and effective management to mitigate against their potential negative impacts on the native ecosystem and biodiversity.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8566.15.10.24135-24139
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- First sighting record of Western Reef-Heron Egretta gularis (Bosc, 1792)
(Aves: Pelecaniformes: Ardeidae) from Jammu & Kashmir, India
Authors: Parvaiz Yousuf, Semran Parvaiz, Nisheet Zehbi, Sabia Altaf , Showkat Maqbool, Mudasir Mehmood Malik
Pages: 24140 - 24143
Abstract: We report the first documented sighting of a Western Reef-Heron (Egretta gularis) in Jammu & Kashmir, India. The Western Reef-Heron, a medium-sized heron, was previously considered a subspecies of the Little Egret. The sighting occurred on June 18, 2023, at Wular Lake, expanding the avifaunal diversity of the region. The heron remained in the vicinity of the lake for several days, allowing for detailed observation and study. This particular bird belonged to the dark morph category, displaying distinct characteristics. The Western Reef-Heron is primarily found in coastal regions across Africa but has also been observed as a vagrant species in southern Europe. The sighting at Wular Lake contributes to our understanding of the avian population and ecological dynamics in the region. Wular Lake, situated in the Kashmir valley, is one of Asia's largest wetlands and plays a crucial role in water flow regulation, agriculture, and fisheries. It has recently become a hotspot for diverse bird species, including several notable first-time sightings in Jammu & Kashmir
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8634.15.10.24140-24143
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Rare desmid genus Bourrellyodesmus Compère (Chlorophyceae: Desmidiales:
Desmidiaceae) in India with description of a new species (Bourrellyodesmus
indicus Das & Keshri sp. nov.) from eastern Himalaya, India
Authors: Debjyoti Das, Jai Prakash Keshri
Pages: 24144 - 24147
Abstract: During systematic investigations on the algal diversity of eastern Himalaya, the authors recorded a rare desmid genus Bourrellyodesmus Compère for the first time from the Indian subcontinent. After detailed comparative study of the existing species of the genus a new species Bourrellyodesmus indicus has been proposed. A taxonomic note on the existing species of the genus has also been given.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8264.15.10.24144-24147
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
- Threats faced by Humboldtia bourdillonii Prain (Magnoliopsida: Fabales:
Fabaceae), an endangered tree endemic to the southern Western Ghats, India
Authors: Jithu K. Jose, K. Anuraj
Pages: 24148 - 24150
Abstract: Humboldtia bourdillonii is a threatened tree species, endemic to the Western Ghats. Recently, `the species has been facing serious ecological and man-made threats in its natural habitat. The tree is highly infested with insects—jumping thrips and weevils. H. bourdilloni has also an interaction with the Malabar Giant Squirrel Ratufa indica. Even though the fruits of this tree species are a food source for the squirrel, the animal spoils the fruits & seeds. Reduced visiting intensity of pollinators and irregularities in flowering & fruiting have affected the species. Conversion of forest areas into plantations, recent abnormal monsoon flooding in Kerala, and human activities have also negatively affected this species.
PubDate: 2023-10-28
DOI: 10.11609/jott.8646.15.10.24148-24150
Issue No: Vol. 15, No. 10 (2023)
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