UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY
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A Study of Spider Diversity and Habitat Distribution in Rajnandgaon Block, Chhattisgarh, India
Get PDFThis study investigates the diversity and habitat of spiders in Rajnandgaon Block, Chhattisgarh, India, as well as their ecological roles. The research utilized random sampling and spiders were obtained through hand collection, sweep nets, pitfall traps, litter sifting, and beating techniques. Specimens were fixed in ethanol and identified morphologically based on taxonomic keys. Biodiversity was examined using Shannon-Wiener, Simpson\u27s Index, and evenness of species. A total of 25 spider species from 20 genera, 9 families, and the order Araneae were recorded across urban, forest, and agricultural habitats. Salticidae (jumping spiders) constituted a major part of the recorded species. Some common species include Marpissa obtusa, Menemerus bivittatus, and Plexippus paykulli. The study recorded that tropical forest ecosystems harbored tarantulas (Grammostola pulchra and Grammostola rosea), whereas lynx spiders (Peucetia viridans and Oxyopes salticus) thrived in forest and shrubland. Habitat diversity played a significant role in supporting spider species as they prefer microhabitats such as tree trunks, rocks, and shaded areas. The contribution of spiders toward ecological services also focuses on pest control. The findings suggest that seasonal variations impact species distribution, which aligns with earlier studies on spider diversity in India. This study highlights the necessity of conservation to preserve spider habitats and maintain their ecological functions. Further research should include seasonal patterns, microhabitat preferences, and pest control functions of spiders
Heavy Metal Evaluation in Commonly Consumed Fishes (Boleophthalmus boddarti and Mugil cephalus) from Panvel creek, District Raigad, Maharashtra, West Coast of India
Get PDFThe present study aimed to monitor heavy metal concentrations in commonly consumed fishes, Mudskipper (Boleophthalmus boddarti) and Mullet (Mugil cephalus) from Panvel Creek, District Raigad, Maharashtra, West Coast of India using the US-EPA Method and analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP- AES). Concentrations of Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Lead (Pb), Mercury (Hg), Nickel (Ni), and Zinc (Zn). It is reported that the extent of metal concentrations in muscle, gills, and liver tissue of fishes is varied considerably. In mudskipper, the hierarchy of the metals can be ranked as: Hg > Cu > Ni > Zn > Pb > Cd; whereas in mullet, it is in the order of Hg > Zn > Cu > Ni > Pb > Cd. Exceptionally high levels of heavy metals were observed in mullet and are attributed to the habitat and feeding behavior of this species. Comparatively, lower levels of metals are recorded in mudskippers and may be due to the diet, feeding habits and migration routes. The coastal communities along the Panvel creek are dependent on unprocessed marine fish. Therefore, consumption of contaminated marine food is the major route of human exposure to toxic elements. This study recommends the periodic monitoring of coastal water, sediment, and marine biota for the extent of bioaccumulation of metals. Further, the findings of the present work should be used as baseline data for future assessment of metal pollution in the marine biota from Panvel creek and also for the better management of the coastal ecosystem and the safety of human beings
Effects of Multi-Strain Probiotics and Early Life Multi-Mineralization on Iron-Zinc Homeostasis in Neonatal Piglets
Get PDFThe present study was conducted to investigate the effect of multi-strain probiotics and multi-minerals on iron-zinc homeostasis in neonatal piglets. Eight apparently healthy sows were selected and randomly divided into four equal groups. Piglets from two sows of each group were taken for study [Control (total piglets-17), multi-minerals (total piglets-22), multi-strain probiotics (total piglets-15) and multi-minerals + multi-strain probiotics (total piglets-23)]. The Blood samples were collected from anterior vena cava of piglets on day 0, 7, 14 and 21 post-farrowing. The zinc and iron concentration were measured using spectrophotometer. The results revealed that the mean zinc and iron concentrations were markedly higher in multi-minerals group as compare to control, multi-strain probiotics and multi-minerals + multi-strain probiotics groups on day 0. Moreover, that in MM group, Zn concentration on day 14 and 21 and iron values on day 21 were significantly lower as compared to day 0. The mean concentration of iron on day 7 and zinc on day 7 and 21 were significantly higher as compared to day 0 in multi-strain probiotics group. In multi-minerals + multi-strain probiotics group, mean concentration of iron on day 14 and 21 and zinc value on day 14 were significantly lower as compared to day 0 and day 7. It is concluded that the supplementation of multi-strain probiotics has better effect on iron zinc homeostasis as compare to multi-minerals and multi-minerals + multi-strain probiotics supplementations
Assessment of Ichthyofaunal Diversity with Relation to Water Quality Parameters of Bhojtal Lake (Upper Lake) in Bhopal, M.P, India
Get PDFIn the current communication examined species diversity, habitate ecology defference indices of fish diversity management were studied during the study period (2023-24). Such a diverse collection of fish, representing 33 species from 9 orders and 13 families, has been recorded in the Upper Lake (Bhojtal), Bhopal. The Cypriniformes came out on top with 45% species richness, followed by Siluriformes forming 28%, and then the remaining smaller proportions of orders like Beloniformes, Synbranchiformes, and Perciformes. Seasonal variations in species richness reveal an increase in diversity during winter, which coincides with environmental parameters favorable for aquatic species life. Biodiversity indices, such as the Shannon-Wiener Index (H′) and Simpson\u27s Index (1-D), reveal the maximu values during the winter season (H′ = 3.384; 1-D = 0.9636), Seasonal changes are also reflected in the monsoon and the values are significantly low there (H′ = 3.046; 1-D = 0.945). These are parameters essential to understand temporal variability. Various physicochemical parameters present seasonal variations, air temperature ranged between 20–35°C, water temperature between 18–31°C, pH between 5.7–7.8, total alkalinity between 92 and 145 mg/L, dissolved oxygen between 5.7 and 7.5 mg/L, free CO₂ between 3 and 10 mg/L, and total hardness between 155 and 234 mg/L, these however are majorly shaped up by subtropical climatic conditions as well as runoff characteristics of Central India
Phytotherapeutic Efficacy of Cucurbita pepo against Gastrointestinal Helminths in Goats
Get PDFAims: To evaluate the in vivo anthelmintic efficacy aqueous seed extract of Cucurbita pepo against mixed gastrointestinal helminths in goats, with the goal of identifying a potential alternative to conventional anthelmintic drugs.
Study Design: An experimental trial was conducted on ten naturally infected goats to assess the therapeutic effects of Cucurbita pepo seed extract over a 21-day observation period, focusing on parasitological, haematological, and biochemical responses.
Place and Duration of Study: The present study was conducted at Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, MAFSU, Akola, Maharashtra and duration of study was 06 months.
Methodology: Ten goats naturally infected with gastrointestinal helminths were selected and administered Cucurbita pepo seed extract orally at a dose of 160 mg/kg body weight for three consecutive days. Faecal egg count was evaluated on days 0, 3, 7, and 21 post-treatment. Haematological (haemoglobin, packed cell volume, total erythrocyte count) and biochemical (liver enzymes, serum proteins) parameters were assessed on days 0 and 21. Safety was monitored through clinical observations and biochemical profiling.
Results and Discussion: The treated goats exhibited a progressive and significant reduction in faecal egg count, reaching a 98.59% reduction by day 21. Significant improvements were noted in haemoglobin, packed cell volume, and total erythrocyte count, suggesting recovery from anaemia and enhanced erythropoiesis. No significant changes were detected in liver enzymes or serum protein levels, and no adverse effects were observed, indicating the safety of the treatment.
Conclusion: Aqueous seed extract of Cucurbita pepo demonstrated potent anthelmintic activity and was well tolerated in goats. These findings support its potential as a safe, natural alternative to synthetic anthelmintics and highlight its relevance in reducing drug resistance. Further research is recommended to isolate active compounds and confirm long-term efficacy
Beta -Defensin 3 Gene Expression upon Staphylococcus aureus Infection in Catla catla Fish of Narmada River, Madhya Pradesh, India
Get PDFThe historical and cultural significance of fish as a staple food has driven advancements in fish farming technologies, aiming to enhance yield and sustainability. Understanding the immunological aspects of fish is crucial for enhancing aquaculture practices and ensuring the health of fish populations in natural ecosystems. This study explores the immune response of Catla catla, a freshwater fish species of Narmada river of Madhya Pradesh, by examining the expression of the β-defensin 3 gene following exposure to the bacterial pathogen Staphylococcus aureus at laboratory setup. This study provided a comprehensive framework to analyse the gene expression pattern of β-defensin 3, shedding light on the immunological response of Catla catla fish species under bacterial infection. Live specimens of Catla catla were carefully collected from the Narmada River near Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh to investigate the expression of the β-defensin 3 gene. Total RNA was extracted from the tissue samples using TRIZOL reagent. For reverse transcription, 1000 ng of RNA was used to synthesise complementary DNA (cDNA) using the iScript™ cDNA Synthesis Kit. The expression of β-defensin 3 was analysed using quantitative PCR (qPCR) on the AriaMx Real-time PCR System. Specific primers were designed to amplify the target gene and the housekeeping gene. This methodological approach ensured the precise evaluation of β-defensin 3 gene expression under controlled laboratory conditions, providing valuable insights into the immune responses of Catla catla to bacterial infection. The findings demonstrate a significant increase in the expression of the β-defensin 3 gene in infected Catla catla compared to uninfected control fish. This was quantitatively analysed using polymerase chain reaction (qPCR), revealing a pronounced response to the bacterial challenge. Statistical analysis through an unpaired t-test yielded a p-value of 0.0108, indicating that the elevation of β-defensin 3 expression is a vital immune response mechanism to bacterial infection. The increased levels of β-defensins, known for their antimicrobial properties, underscore their importance in the innate immune system of fish, functioning as a first line of defence against a variety of pathogens. These peptides exhibit the capabilities to disrupt bacterial membranes, which is critical for inhibiting pathogen growth and protecting the host. Additionally, our results highlight the broader implications of environmental factors, particularly water quality, on the immune health of Catla catla. Frequent exposure to harmful bacteria due to pollution necessitates robust immune responses, indicating the need for effective water management strategies in habitats supporting these fish. This study not only sheds light on the immunological mechanisms at play within Catla catla but also emphasises the importance of maintaining healthy aquatic environments to support fish health and resilience. Such insights are vital for promoting sustainable aquaculture practices, ensuring the health of fish populations, and sustaining biodiversity in freshwater ecosystems
Stock Assessment, Market Trends, and Export Potential of Cephalopod Fisheries (Loligo duvaucelii and Sepia pharaonis) in Visakhapatnam, India
Get PDFCephalopods, a class of molluscs including Squids, Cuttlefish have become an important part of India\u27s marine fisheries sector. Over the last few decades, the cephalopod fishery in Indian waters has seen substantial growth due to increasing demand in both domestic and international markets. The main target squid species Loligo duvaucelii (Indian squid) and cuttle fish species Sepia pharaonis (Pharaoh cuttlefish), Sepia aculeata, Sepiella inermis and Sepia brevimana. The present study deals with the stock assessment, market trends and export potential of loligo and sepia species from Visakhapatnam fishing harbour. The present study was conducted for a period of four months i.e. from December 2024 to March 2025. Weekly and fortnight data was analysed, and it is evident from the present study findings that, the maximum stock (1679kg.) of Loligo was observed during the month of December 2024. Similarly maximum stock (1913kg) of sepia was recorded in the month of February 2025. The variation in stock recruitment maybe due to environmental changes like oceanic temperature etc. A brief description of market price trends also discussed in this paper
Assessment of Pesticide Induced Food Toxicity on Progesterone Levels in Female Albino Rats
Get PDFStress is considered to be an unavoidable phenomenon that is experienced by individuals of all ages and from different walk of life. It is the body’s response to any real or imagined danger that leads to a number of physical and emotional changes in an individual. Stress is caused by stressors and there are several types of stressors present in nature like food toxicants, prolonged exposure of light, high intensity of light and contaminated water. Among all of this food toxicity is the key stress for every organism. This study focusses on the effect of acute stress of food toxicity on progesterone hormone so as to check the impact of toxicity of pesticides on food, using malathion as a representative of toxicants. The study utilizes malathion as an organophosphate pesticide. The study was conducted in two phases where acute stress in one phase was followed by withdrawal of stress in the second phase. ELISA, t-test and ANOVA were applied to compare significant changes
20-Hydroxyecdysone in Silkworm Biology: Molecular Mechanisms of Biosynthesis, Development and Biotechnological Applications
Get PDF20-Hydroxyecdysone (20E), a crucial steroid hormone in insects, plays a multifaceted role in regulating the developmental, physiological, and metabolic processes of the silkworm Bombyx mori. This review comprehensively covers its function across distinct developmental stages—embryonic, larval, and pupal. During embryogenesis and larval development, 20E biosynthesis depends on the maternal 3-epimerization pathway and key enzymes such as ecdysone oxidase (BmEO) and 3DE-3β-reductase. Functional studies show that disruption of these genes results in reduced ecdysone levels, developmental arrest, and decreased hatching rates. Notably, noppera-bo (nobo-Bm), a glutathione S-transferase gene involved in ecdysteroidogenesis, shows over 10-fold higher expression in the ovary, and its loss-of-function mutations cause larval lethality due to impaired sterol utilization. Beyond development, 20E plays a vital role in immune modulation by inducing antimicrobial peptides via the Broad-Complex Z2 (Br-C Z2) transcription factor and facilitates genital disc differentiation through the MAPK signalling pathway. In applied sericulture, the expression of the baculovirus-derived EGT gene in transgenic silkworms suppresses 20E levels, leading to prolonged larval feeding, inhibition of pupation, and a significant increase in cocoon shell ratio, thereby enhancing silk yield. Collectively, these insights highlight the central regulatory role of 20E across silkworm development and physiology, and underscore its biotechnological potential for improving sericultural productivity
Tri-Trophic Associations of Aphidophagous Ladybirds of the Tribe Coccidulini (Coccinellinae: Coccinellidae: Coleoptera) in India
Get PDFA checklist of tri-trophic associations (triplets) involving aphidophagous species of the tribe Coccinellini (Coccinellinae: Coccinellidae: Coleoptera) was prepared across various states and union territories of India. The tri-trophic associations are known for only 33 species (including three species identified up to genus level) belonging to seven genera that prey on 59 species of aphids infesting 139 species of plants. This results in 383 tri-trophic associations across 24 states/union territories of India. The genus Scymnus Kugelann is the largest, containing 22 aphidophagous species. Most of the Coccidulini tri-trophic associations were recorded in Kerala (79 triplets), followed by Uttar Pradesh (66 triplets), Karnataka (64 triplets), Bihar (46 triplets), Tamil Nadu (43 triplets), and Maharashtra (41 triplets). The rest of the 18 states/union territories had fewer than 40 triplets. Of the 59 recorded aphid prey species, 20 Coccidulini species primarily feed on Aphis gossypii Glover, while 14 and 13 species prey on Aphis craccivora Koch and Myzus persicae (Sulzer), respectively. The most preferred food plants are brassica crops (oil-yielding and vegetable crops, 34 triplets), followed by Solanum melongena L. (32 triplets), Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. (13 triplets), and Zea mays L. (11 triplets). The tri-trophic associations of these predators are not known in several regions of India; therefore, a thorough survey programme is required to study these ladybirds in those areas of India