UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY
Not a member yet
4379 research outputs found
Sort by
Taxonomic and Ecological Assessment of Labeo rohita in the Kali River System: Insights from Uttarakhand, India
Get PDFIn India, Uttarakhand is rich in its ichthyofaunal diversity, but in the Kali River system which is the largest in the Kumaun Himalaya, Labeo rohita has not been reported yet. This study investigates the taxonomy, morpho-biology, and habitat ecology of Labeo rohita. Taxonomic identification was conducted using diagnostic keys, fin formulae, and detailed descriptions, while morpho-biological analysis included 12 morphometric measurements, 6 meristic counts, and length-length relationships. Habitat ecology was assessed through 9 physicochemical parameters. The specimen was identified as Labeo rohita with negative allometric growth, supported by significant correlations between morphometric traits and physicochemical conditions which indicates healthy development. This first record of Labeo rohita in the Kali River system provides valuable insights into its taxonomy, growth, and ecological adaptations, contributing to the understanding and conservation of aquatic biodiversity in the Kumaun Himalaya
Community Dynamics and Population Structure of Macro-Zoobenthos: An Evaluation of the Ecological Health of the Snow-Fed Kali River of Uttarakhand, India
Get PDFMacro-zoobenthos are aquatic benthic invertebrates that inhabit freshwater ecosystems and act as bioindicators of ecosystem health. This study evaluates the ecological health of the snow-fed Kali River system of Uttarakhand, India, by examining macrozoobenthos taxonomy, diversity, and ecological dynamics. Monthly samples were collected on a yearly basis from three ecologically distinct sites along the river, using stratified sampling methods. Standard methods were used for benthos collection, identification, classification, species diversity, and alpha-beta diversity indices. Taxonomic identification and diversity index analysis revealed 79 genera and 2,458 individuals from three major phyla: Arthropoda (52 families, 76 species), Annelida (1 family, 1 species), and Mollusca (2 families, 2 species). Diversity indices, including Simpson (0.69-0.79), are highest in July and lowest in December. Shannon Wiener (H\u27) index values (1.37 to 1.74) peaked in June and dipped in January. The evenness index (0.66 to 0.80) was highest in July and lowest in December. Margalef Index (0.91 to 1.54) peaked in August and was lowest in January. Equitability index values (0.73 to 0.89) were highest in July and lowest in September. Whittaker\u27s beta diversity analysis yielded a value of 0.4433, signifying substantial dissimilarity in community composition. These findings highlight macrozoobenthos as vital bioindicators, offering key data for river management and biodiversity. They also highlight the need for long-term monitoring and physicochemical integration
Snake Diversity in Human Landscapes: A Comprehensive Study of Snake Species in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, India
Get PDFThis comprehensive study documents the diversity of snake species within the human landscape of Kushinagar district, Uttar Pradesh, India. Carrying out extensive fieldwork using direct and indirect encounter methods revealed 18 snake species from six families, with the Indian Spectacled Cobra (Naja naja) being the dominant venomous species, along with Russell\u27s viper (Vipera russellii) and the Indian Common Krait (Bungarus caeruleus). Biostatistical analysis showed that the Colubridae family was the most diverse group, comprising 61% of the recorded snake species. Species richness, abundance, and diversity indices were analysed, with the Shannon Diversity Index (H\u27) and Simpson Diversity Index (D) indicating variations in species richness and evenness across different areas. The correlation matrix highlighted ecological interactions, such as predator-prey dynamics and habitat sharing, while non-parametric tests revealed significant differences in abundance among the study areas. The study emphasizes the importance of utilizing additional biostatistical strategies to examine non-normally distributed data and ensure robust conclusions. The findings contribute to understanding snake ecology and provide valuable insights for habitat management and biodiversity conservation planning in the Kushinagar region, which is crucial for protecting these enigmatic animals and their ecosystems
Dynamics of Predator-prey Interactions in Sharp Tooth Catfish (Clarias gariepinus; Burchell, 1822) and Carp Fingerlings (Labeo bata; Hamilton, 1822) with Special Reference to the Development of Anti-Predatory Strategies
Get PDFThis study explores the dynamics of predator-prey interactions and functional response of Clarias gariepinus (African Magur/Sharptooth Catfish - predator) and of Labeo bata (Carp fingerlings - prey). Author investigated the behavioral patterns of both species in isolation and during encounters, exploring the impacts of predator size, prey-predator ratio, encounter duration and placement of separators on anti-predatory strategies. Results indicated that prey behavior is influenced by predator presence, with crowding, hiding, and inspection emerging as key anti-predatory strategies. The development and intensity of these strategies are intricately linked to prey-predator ratio, size difference, and encounter duration. Notably, larger predators trigger more pronounced anti-predatory responses in preys, while high prey composition motivates individuals to inspect predators, conveying fearlessness and fitness. Findings provide valuable insights into the evolution of predator-avoidance behaviors in prey species, sheds light on the complex dynamics governing predator-prey interactions in aquatic ecosystems
Entomopathogenic Fungi: Dual Role in Insect Control and Plant Disease Management
Get PDFEntomopathogenic fungi (EPF) are important biological agents in modern agriculture, offering eco-friendly solutions for integrated pest and disease management. With their dual functionality, EPF target a wide range of insect pests while suppressing plant pathogens, presenting a sustainable alternative to synthetic pesticides. The biology, mechanisms, and applications of EPF, highlighting their ability to parasitize insects through adhesion, enzymatic penetration, and toxin production while simultaneously managing plant pathogens via antibiosis, competition, systemic resistance induction, and direct parasitism. Advances in genomics have unveiled molecular insights into EPF pathogenicity, paving the way for biotechnological enhancements, including genetically engineered strains with improved efficacy, thermal tolerance, and host specificity. Innovative formulation technologies, such as nano-carriers and microencapsulation, have enhanced the viability and precision delivery of EPF, improving field efficacy. The integration of EPF with precision agriculture tools, including drones and sensor-based systems, allows targeted applications and data-driven pest management. Their compatibility with organic farming systems underscores their role in fostering sustainable and environmentally conscious agricultural practices. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including environmental limitations, production costs, regulatory hurdles, and potential non-target effects. Addressing these challenges through interdisciplinary research and stakeholder education is critical for maximizing EPF\u27s potential. As agriculture faces mounting pressures from climate change, pest resistance, and ecological degradation, EPF stand as a promising solution, contributing to soil health, biodiversity conservation, and reduced chemical dependency. The importance of EPF in shaping resilient agroecosystems, driving the transition toward sustainable agriculture while ensuring food security and environmental sustainability. The integration of cutting-edge technologies and policy support will be important in scaling the adoption of EPF-based solutions, positioning these fungi as a cornerstone in the future of agricultural innovation and sustainability
Exploring Ichthyofaunal Diversity and Water Quality in the Bhadar-II Reservoir, Gujarat, India
Get PDFThe study was conducted to assess the fish diversity and water quality in the Bhadar-II reservoir, located in Rajkot district of Gujarat. Monthly sampling was carried out from September 2023 to April 2024. A total of 19 fish species were recorded during the study period. Cypriniformes was the dominant order in terms of species diversity (9 species), followed by Siluriformes (5 species), Anabantiformes (3 species), Osteoglossiformes (1 species) and Cichliformes (1 species). The dominant families were Cyprinidae (9 species), followed by Channidae (3 species), Siluridae (2 species), and 1 species each from Claridae, Heteropneustidae, Cichlidae, Pangasiidae, and Notopteridae. The catfish population was the most prevalent, accounting for 26% of the total fish population, followed by minor carp at 21%. Major carp, exotic fish, and murrels each contributed 16%, while featherback fish had the lowest at 5%. The fish data was subjected to species diversity analysis. The Shannon-Wiener Index values ranged from 1.776 to 2.546, indicating monthly fluctuations in diversity levels. This range suggests that the habitat structure was moderately stable. Pielou\u27s Evenness Index values ranged from 0.8080 to 0.8880, showing a gradual increase in evenness over time. This increase can be attributed to a decline in the population of the dominant species. Species richness, as measured by the Margalef Richness Index, ranged from 1.278 to 2.477, with the highest species richness observed in November during the winter season. Monthly observations of physicochemical parameters showed the range of water temperature from 23.4°C to 30.1°C, dissolved oxygen levels from 6.7 to 8.9 mg/l, pH from 7.6 to 8.3, alkalinity between 139.4 to 156.2 mg/l, and total hardness from 94.2 to 133.1 mg/l
Seasonal Dynamics of Phytoplankton Diversity in Ranchi Lake: Indicators of Water Quality and Ecosystem Health
Get PDFA British soldier named Colonel Onsely created Ranchi lake, which the locals call Bada Talab, as a freshwater environment. Evaluating phytoplankton diversity and its connection to water quality is the goal. The evaluation of phytoplankton which are mostly found in water bodies is the focus of this research. The majority of the phytoplanktonic species found in Bada Talab belong to the Chlorophyceae, Bascilariophyceae and Cyanophyceae groups and this assessment carried out at regular intervals. Thus it can be concluded that April 2023- June 2023 is the ideal time period for Cyanophyceae members to grow followed by January2023- March 2023 for Chlorophyceae and January 2023-March 2023 for Bascilariophyceae. The most common species which are trustworthy markers of pollution and water quality were Microcystis, Spirogyra, Nostoc, Oscilatoria, Scendesmus, Pinnularia and Volvox. Certain genera such as Microcystis and Spirogyra are dominant and serve as indicators of pollution
Structural Characterization of Appendages of Diverse Butterfly Species (Insecta: Lepidoptera) from Mohali, Chandigarh, India
Get PDFInsects form a very important and integral part of any ecosystem. Their contributions include agriculture, biodiversity, human health as well as conservation of natural resources. Butterflies belonging to this category falls under suborder of Lepidoptera called Rhopalocera. They have large and vividly coloured wings, which are used for both defence and communication. Butterflies play important role in the ecosystem. Lives of plants and butterflies are interlinked. These insects enhance the aesthetic value of environment by their wonderful wing colours. At rest, their wings are held together upright, which sets them off from all other insects. Butterflies are extremely important in pollination as most of them are important pollinating agent for many plant species, contributing to the enhancement of genetic diversity and stability within the ecosystem. However, their fascinating complex sensory systems go beyond their obvious beauty and importance in ecology. For instance, their legs are more than just organs of locomotion; they are actually very fine devices with sensilla. These sensilla function as receptors so that butterflies would be able to sense various aspects of their surroundings. This review article deals with different species of butterflies and the different sensory adaptations of these sensilla. By looking at these sensory structures, one can gather information about different behavioural patterns, ecological interactions and evolved tactics of an organism. Studying butterfly appendages provides critical insights into their morphological adaptations, ecological roles, behavioural strategies, offering a deeper understanding of their evolutionary success. It highlights the structural and functional adaptations of butterfly leg sensilla across species, providing valuable insights into behavioural patterns and ecological interactions, thereby advancing our understanding of insect- environment relationships
Harnessing Hormesis: Exploring Insecticide Dose-response Dynamics for Sustainable Pest Management
Get PDFHormesis, a biological phenomenon in which hazardous substances become less damaging or less effective at greater concentrations while still having therapeutic effects at lower quantities, is important for managing pests. Hormesis, which was first discovered in the 1940s, significantly affects the best way to utilize pesticides. The mechanisms of hormesis, such as behavioural modifications, metabolic activation, detoxification processes, stress reactions, target site saturation, and physiological reactions, are examined in this review. Comprehending these mechanisms is crucial in formulating efficacious and enduring pest management tactics. Utilizing hormetic effects can lower pollution levels in the environment, slow the emergence of resistance, and improve the general effectiveness of pesticides. This review underscores the critical importance of incorporating dose and environmental factors into effective pest management strategies. It emphasizes the necessity of hormesis-based integrated pest management (IPM) programs that strike a balance between efficient pest control and negligible negative effects on the environment and human health. In the end, agroecosystems can benefit from improved pest management strategies that are more sustainable and successful by comprehending and utilizing the principles of hormesis. This can also lessen the need for high-dose chemical treatments
Marine Debris: A Global Environmental and Socioeconomic Challenge to Coastal and Marine Ecosystems
Get PDFMarine debris is an alarming issue for the marine environment and impacts the coastal and marine life by causing severe injuries, reduced health, decreased reproductive output and mortality. Over 400 million tons of plastic are produced every year for use in a wide variety of applications. At least 14 million tons of plastic end up in the ocean every year, and plastic makes up 80% of all marine debris found from surface waters to deep-sea sediments. Plastic pollution threatens food safety and quality, human health, coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change. Due to its durability, society’s adoption of plastics as a substitute for traditional materials has expanded almost exponentially as a result, large-scale plastic production began. Therefore, there is an urgent need to explore new and existing legally binding agreements to address management of marine debris. This study aimed to review the marine debris with respect to types, sources, decomposition rate, impacts, and strategies for management of marine debris. The socioeconomic effects of marine debris were observed on maritime sectors (fisheries and aquaculture, coastal communities and tourism, costs of beach cleaning); high concern of the society about marine debris; and human health risks (injuries due to pieces of glass, metal fragments, discarded syringes and medical waste). The result also showed that to reduce the impacts of marine debris, it is necessary to change mind-set and habits of people about waste disposal, and to avoid production and use of single-use plastics by producers and consumers. It is suggested that, input prevention should be the major objective during management efforts of marine debris. Reduction measures such as proper waste management, plastic recycling, and stringent penalties for illegal waste dumping are essential to reduce the marine debris