UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY
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Isolation and Morphological Characterization of Barnacle-Derived Actinomycetes from Southern Regions with Potent Anti-MRSA Activity
Marine environments represent an underexplored reservoir of bioactive microorganisms with significant pharmaceutical potential. The present study aimed to isolate and characterize actinomycetes associated with marine barnacles collected from Chinnavilai Beach, Kannyakumari District, Tamil Nadu, India, and evaluate their antimicrobial activity against selected pathogens. A total of 17 actinomycetes strain were isolated using selective actinomycetes isolation medium, of which four morphologically distinct isolates (BAR1-BAR4) were selected for detailed investigation. The isolates were characterized based on macroscopic and micromorphological features, including aerial and substrate mycelium, pigmentation, and spore chain morphology. Antimicrobial screening using the agar plug. Revealed that the isolates exhibited varying degrees of inhibitory activity against clinical important pathogens, with isolate BAR2showing pronounced activity, particularly against Methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), along with notable inhibition of Actinetobacter baumannii and klesiella pneumonia. The findings demonstrate that marine barnacle associated actinomycetes are a promising source of potent antimicrobial agents and highlight their potential role in the discovery of novel secondary metabolites to combat multi drug resistant bacterial infections
Study on Biology of Microcephalothrips abdominalis Crawford (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) on Marigold under Laboratory Conditions
Microcephalothrips abdominalis (Crawford), known as composite thrips, is a neotropical species now established in various regions including India, parts of Europeand the US, where it infests crops like marigold,beansand Asteraceae family plants. Severe infestations cause significant damage, such as leaf bronzing, pod quality reduction, petal discolorationand hindered seed development, significantly lowering market value. Additionally, it vectors Tobacco streak virus (TSV) to weeds and crops, amplifying economic losses in floriculture and vegetable production. The bio-ecology of Microcephalothrips abdominalis (Crawford)was investigated on marigold leaves (var. Benztall) under controlled laboratory conditions at the College of Horticulture (COH), Bengaluru, from January to February 2021. Experiment was maintained at 26 ± 2°C temperature and 70 ± 5% relative humidity. Thrips collected from field-infested marigold plants were identified as M. abdominalis through morphological traitsviz., small head narrower than prothorax, seven antennal segments (3rd/4th light-colored), fringed brown wings and sexual dimorphism. The results indicate that the total life cycle averaged 16.98 ± 3.07 days, comprising egg (1.95 ± 0.41 days; bean-shaped, whitish, inserted in lower leaf surfaces), first instar larva (2.60 ± 0.41 days; tiny/whitish, 0.54 ± 0.01 mm), second instar (3.98 ± 0.97 days; yellowish, 0.82 ± 0.01 mm), pre-pupa (1.38 ± 0.53 days; dark/sluggish, upward antennae), pupa (1.97 ± 0.29 days; folded antennae, full wing pads)and adult (5.10 ± 0.46 days; male: 0.96 ± 0.04 mm, female: 1.13 ± 0.04 mm).Observations used Petri dishes with fresh leaf arenas, 40 × 40 × 40 cm cages (10 adults/plant)and 8-hour stereo microscopy for exuvial confirmation, enabling precise stage delineation
Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanisms of Drug-resistant Bacterial Pathogens: A Narrative Review
Many antibiotics and other antimicrobial medicines become ineffective due to antimicrobial resistance, which is a serious danger to global health. Numerous bacterial survival tactics, such as the enzymatic breakdown of antibiotics, target site changes, efflux pumps, decreased membrane permeability, and biofilm development, are responsible for this phenomenon. The spread of resistance is accelerated by genetic elements that facilitate horizontal gene transfer, such as integrins, transposons, and plasmids. The overuse and abuse of antibiotics in agricultural and human health, inadequate infection control procedures, environmental contamination, and international travel are major causes of antimicrobial resistance. AMR has serious repercussions, including longer illness duration, higher mortality, and a large financial strain on healthcare systems. To combat this crisis, a multifaceted approach is necessary, incorporating novel antimicrobial development, antibiotic stewardship programs, infection prevention strategies, global surveillance, and regulatory interventions. Alternative therapies such as phage therapy, antimicrobial peptides, and microbiome-based treatments offer promising solutions. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and responsible antibiotic use are critical for slowing resistance progression. Governments, medical professionals, researchers, and the general public must work together to combat AMR globally. Designing successful ways to lessen the effects of AMR requires an understanding of its molecular mechanics and causes. AMR poses an existential threat to contemporary medicine since it may usher in a post-antibiotic age in which common infections are incurable without immediate intervention
Milk Goitre in Kid: A Case Report
A typical case of week-old kid was presented at Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Rewa, Madhyapradesh, India with symptoms of lower neck swelling, anorexia, gasping, and vomition. On examination the lesion revealed hard, glandular swelling which are painless on palpation and is present in thyroid region in throat namely cranio-ventral neck region. Respiratory rate as observed at the time of clinical examination was 56 per minute and temperature was 104.3oF with pulse rate of 98 per minute. Ultrasonography examination of neck region and mediastinum showed thymus tissue presence in the region. Haematological examination showed low RBC count and haemoglobin value. Based on clinical examination and laboratory tests the case was typical goat milk goitre
Isolation and Identification of Bacterial Pathogens in Poultry Liver from Post-mortem Specimens in Iraq Using the VITEK® 2 Compact System
Introduction: Bacterial liver infections in poultry cause significant mortality and economic losses, with pathogens like Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Pasteurella multocida implicated in sepsis, necrosis, and systemic disease. The use of the VITEK® 2 system enabled rapid identification and susceptibility testing of the pathogens, contributing to a better understanding of microbial threats in poultry production. The findings emphasize the significance of bacterial sepsis as a cause of mortality in broilers and highlight the importance of rapid diagnostic techniques in veterinary practice.
Aim: This study aimed to isolate and identify bacterial pathogens in post-mortem poultry liver specimens and to determine their antimicrobial resistance profiles.
Methodology: Seventy-five poultry liver samples were aseptically collected during post-mortem examination, homogenized, cultured on selective media, and identified using the VITEK® 2 Compact System with antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Results: The results revealed that 68% of the examined liver samples had high bacterial loads (≥10⁶ CFU/g), indicating significant microbial involvement in the birds\u27 mortality. Among the isolates, Escherichia coli was the most frequently detected bacterium (42%), followed by Klebsiella spp. (28%) and Staphylococcus aureus (5%). Interestingly, no bacterial growth was observed in 25% of the samples, identified E. coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Klebsiella pneumoniae as predominant pathogens. E. coli exhibited resistance to beta-lactams (e.g., ampicillin, piperacillin) and fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin) but susceptibility to carbapenems (imipenem, meropenem), aminoglycosides (amikacin, gentamicin), and tigecycline. K. pneumoniae isolates showed multidrug resistance (including to fluoroquinolones and trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole) but remained susceptible to carbapenems and aminoglycosides. S. aureus was methicillin-sensitive but resistant to moxifloxacin and fusidic acid.
Conclusion: The study concludes that automated systems like VITEK® 2 enable rapid, targeted therapy and antimicrobial stewardship, crucial for mitigating poultry mortality and combating resistance linked to bacterial liver sepsis. This study underlines the necessity of improving diagnostic capabilities and monitoring resistance patterns to enhance poultry health, reduce losses, and maintain food safety standards in commercial poultry operations
Evaluation of Quality of Compost Produced from Shredded Mulberry Shoots (SMS) Using Different Decomposers
Mulberry shoot residues generated after silkworm rearing and also from annual bottom pruning in the field. Huge quantity of mulberry shoot is often left over as waste after silkworm rearing especially with the introduction of shoot rearing method. These shootstake10-12 months for decomposition under natural condition as it contains high amount of cellulose (37.38%), hemicelluloses (25.32%) and lignin (9.99%). The present study focus on left over mulberry shoots after rearing were shredded and used for composting treating with microbial agents viz., organic waste decomposer, Trichoderma spp, Pseudomonas spp, cow dung slurry and biogas slurry. Addition of microbial inoculants significantly accelerated the process of decomposition and enhanced nutrient content at different time intervals. This ensures for a sustainable recycling option for converting bulk biomass into nutrient- rich compost. Shredded mulberry shoot compost samples were analyzed at 30,60,90 and120days for nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, organic carbon and CO₂ evolution. The combined microbial inoculation T4 (50Kg of SMS+50grams of Trichoderma spp+ 50grams of Pseudomonas spp) had a highest nutrient composition at 120days, with N:P:K (2.58%: 1.29%: 3.34%). Organic carbon reduces from 31.13 to 18.42 per cent in T4. CO₂ evolution, a key indicator of microbial activity, peaked at 102.01 mg CO₂/100 g at 75 days under T4, confirming rapid lingo-cellulosic degradation. After the peak, CO₂ evolution declined sharply (90–120 days), representing the stabilization or maturation phase, where organic matter had been decomposed and compost approached maturity. composting approach provides a sustainable waste- management strategy for cost effective mulberry cultivation
Morphological Variations among the Different Populations of Estuarine Croaker (Pseudotolithus elongatus) in the Cross-River Estuary, Nigeria
This study examines the morphological variation of the estuarine croaker (Pseudotolithus elongatus) in the Cross River Estuary, Nigeria, to understand how environmental factors shape fish populations. A total of 815 fish specimens were collected from five stations along the estuary, representing diverse salinity gradients and levels of anthropogenic influence. Morphometric analysis focused on 11 key body traits, adjusted for size using allometric scaling. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that the first component (PC1) accounted for 91.58% of the total variance, capturing the majority of morphological variation. Discriminant Function Analysis (DFA) further identified three distinct morphological groups, with an overall classification accuracy of 61.44%. Monte Carlo simulations indicated that sampling variability could impact observed morphological distinctions, particularly at sites with minor environmental differences. Findings underscore the role of environmental gradients in driving morphological diversity and suggest the need for refined sampling protocols and classification models to improve species differentiation in estuarine ecosystems. The study recommends managing the croaker population as distinct stocks based on local environmental conditions to support effective conservation, thereby sustaining population diversity and resilience in the estuary
Conservation Challenges for Olive Ridley Sea Turtles in North Kerala: A Case Study of Kolavipalam Beach
The Indian coastal regions harbor diverse species of sea turtles, among which Olive Ridley turtles are prevalent and commonly encountered in the coastal waters of Kerala and the Lakshadweep Islands. These turtles exhibit a preference for nesting on expansive beaches and sandy areas situated at river mouths. Our study area, located in the Irringal village of Kozhikode district in North Kerala, overlooks the Arabian Sea and lies adjacent to the Kottapuzha River. Here, the local community has undertaken a conservation initiative known as Theeram Prakriti Samrakshana Samithi (TPSS) to safeguard Olive Ridley turtles during their nesting period. During this study, we investigated the status of Olive Ridley turtle nesting grounds and populations in Kolavipalam surveying beach from 2019 to 2023. We recorded the number of OliveRidley sea turtle nestings during this period, collected the eggs, and assessed the hatching success from the artificial hatchery. The mean annual number of eggs hatched was 54.4 ± 23.27 and the overall nesting success was 25.73%. The study revealed a significant decline in nesting turtles compared to previous years, with only 1-2 egg-laying turtles observed yearly. Median hatch success declined dramatically from 80.21% during the earlier period to 36.41% during this study period. Our analysis identified various challenges affecting turtle nesting, including the construction of sea walls, the development of beach areas for tourism, and changes in rainfall patterns. As a result, turtles were forced to nest closer to the shoreline, making their nests more vulnerable to waves and flooding. These findings emphasized the urgent need for increased conservation efforts to safeguard these endangered sea turtles, particularly in areas like Kolavipalam, which were once ideal nesting sites
Taxonomical Characteristics and Biochemical Properties of Namalycastis abiuma: A Promising Nutritional Resource for Aquaculture
Namalycastis abiuma polychaete species is generally found in mangrove mud flats, whereas ten specimens were observed, with six being complete, ranging from 128 to 135 chaetigers. The species exhibits an elongated body with a convex dorsum and flat ventral surface. The prostomium is trapezoidal with a distinct anterior cleft, and the antennae are short and subconical. Moreover, the species has two pairs of eyes, tentacular cirri with smooth cirrostyles, and a button-shaped pygidium with two smooth anal cirri. The determination of proximate composition widely accepted standard methods were followed, whereas it revealed rich protein content with 54.24 ± 2.4%, and moderate lipid at 32.3 ± 1.2%, a lesser amount of carbohydrate with 17.2 ± 0.7%, and an ash percentage of 7.2 ± 0.5%. The fatty acid profile revealed that 30 numbers of fatty acids belong to SFA, MUFA, and PUFA; at the same time, omega-3 fatty acids, including EPA and DHA, are notable fatty acids that comprise 12.64 ± 1% of the total fatty acids. Unlike other polychaetes, the species of Namalycastis abiuma, generally found in mangrove environments, plays a significant role in nutrient cycling, giving crucial support to the coastal ecosystem\u27s health, and the species has also shown great potential of biochemical profile, including protein, lipid, and carbohydrates, and specifically the presence of higher amounts of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which collectively gives great attention to this species as a promising nutrient source that would support the aquaculture-adapted species like shrimp and fish in their immune system enhancement, reproduction, and growth. This study highlighted that this species is an alternative source for formulating feed, in contrast to reliance on traditional fishmeal, which may create more sustainable and affordable aquaculture practices
A Comprehensive Survey of Avifaunal Diversity of Central University of Odisha, India
This paper is a comprehensive survey of avian diversity in the Central University of Odisha, situated in the Sunabeda of the Koraput district and epitomizes different ecosystems over 450 acres. The survey was conducted over a period of 12 months from September 2023 to August 2024, dealing with species of birds, seasonal population dynamics, and habitat associations across this ecologically important region. Observations were conducted at peak bird activity hours on grasslands, forests, agricultural land, and water bodies with the observations recorded systematically. A total of 117 species of birds were recorded comprising 16 orders and 51 families, with Passeriformes having the highest number of species richness, reflecting that perching birds are well adapted to all kinds of habitats. Some of the notable families were Muscicapidae and Corvidae, which obviously accounted for a major influence on ecosystem functions in the area of study. The study represented various feeding guilds among the avian species. More species were insectivorous, followed by omnivorous and granivorous. Patterns in habitat preferences also emerged, where grasslands and agricultural lands provided a high number of species, reflecting their suitability as foraging and nesting grounds. Piscivorous species were mainly confined to water bodies while forest habitats supported all sorts of specialized feeding behaviours. The results of this survey will fill base data for the development of conservation strategies that lie in consonance with the ecological needs of avian populations in the Sunabeda region and thus will contribute towards regional as well as national avian conservation efforts