UTTAR PRADESH JOURNAL OF ZOOLOGY
Not a member yet
4379 research outputs found
Sort by
Prevalence of Microplastics in Coastal Waters at Veraval, Saurashtra Coast, Gujarat, India
No full textThe prevalence of microplastics in coastal water, Veraval at the Saurashtra coast off Gujarat, India, was studied. The sampling was carried out in Gujarat, focusing on the coastal areas of Veraval coast, a part of Saurashtra coastal region. Two sampling stations were established at each location to ensure diverse data collection and account for potential spatial variations in microplastic intensity. Monthly sample was collected from Oct. 2020 to Mar. 2021 through using OBM boat with 2-3 knot speed. The average microplastic abundance in coastal water at stations 1 and 2 was 0.132 ± 0.018 no./m3 and 0.071 ± 0.014 no./m3, respectively. Fiber-shaped and size fractions of microplastics ranging from 2000 μm to 4000 μm were dominant in both coastal water stations. Black and red microplastics were identified abundantly at both coastal water sampling stations. Fishing and related activities, riverine flow, and tourism contributed to the abundance and widespread distribution of microplastics in coastal water. This finding reveals the presence of microplastic contamination in the coastal water of Veraval, which necessitates scientific regulation and management by enforcing comprehensive waste management strategies
Assessment of Population of Shark and Ray Fishes of Parangipettai Coastal Region, Tamil Nadu, India
No full textElasmobranch populations are globally declining due to intensive fishing pressure, making localized assessments essential for effective conservation and fisheries management. The present study aimed to document the diversity and seasonal occurrence of sharks and rays landed along the Parangipettai coast, Tamil Nadu. Sampling was conducted at the Mudasal Odai fish landing centre from June 2023 to April 2024, covering four seasons: summer, pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon. Species identification was carried out using standard taxonomic keys and reference databases. A total of 17 elasmobranch species belonging to sharks and rays were recorded during the study period. Post-monsoon landings showed the highest species occurrence, followed by monsoon, pre-monsoon, and summer. Family-wise analysis indicated dominance of Dasyatidae, followed by Carcharhinidae, while Gymnuridae showed minimal representation. Comparison with earlier studies revealed the addition of four species newly recorded from the study area. The findings provide updated baseline information on elasmobranch diversity in the Parangipettai region and contribute valuable data for regional biodiversity documentation, conservation planning, and sustainable fisheries management
Seasonal Diversity and Feeding Guild Structure of Birds Associated with Banana and Papaya plants in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India
No full textBirds play a crucial role in sustaining tropical agroecosystems through pollination and seed dispersal services; however, their functional associations with horticultural crops remain insufficiently explored. The present study assessed the diversity, seasonal abundance, and functional guild composition of fruit- and nectar-feeding birds associated with banana (Musa spp.) and papaya (Carica papaya) plantations in Nagapattinam District, Tamil Nadu, India, from March 2023 to February 2024. Standard visual encounter surveys were conducted across seasons using line transect and point count methods, and diversity indices were computed to evaluate community structure. A total of 13 bird species belonging to nectarivorous, frugivorous, and omnivorous guilds were recorded across both crop systems. Banana plantations supported higher overall bird abundance, particularly during the monsoon and winter seasons, whereas papaya fields exhibited greater evenness and species diversity, as reflected by higher Shannon and Simpson diversity indices. Seasonal variation influenced bird assemblages, with peak species richness observed during the monsoon and post-monsoon periods. Statistical analysis indicated no significant seasonal differences in diversity indices (F = 0.1537, p > 0.05), suggesting relative temporal stability in avian community composition. The findings highlight that crop structure and phenology significantly shape avian assemblages, with banana plantations functioning as high-abundance foraging habitats and papaya plantations supporting a more balanced and diverse bird community. This study underscores the importance of diversified agroecosystems in conserving avian biodiversity and enhancing ecosystem services such as pollination and seed dispersal within agricultural landscapes
Ecological Associations of Oecophylla smaragdina with Tree and Climber Species and their Seasonal Dynamics in Mayiladuthurai and Cuddalore Districts, Tamil Nadu, India
No full textThe Asian weaver ant Oecophylla smaragdina is an ecologically important arboreal species known for its complex nest building behaviour and role in natural pest regulation. The present study investigates the ecological associations, seasonal dynamics, and host plant preferences of O. smaragdina across Mayiladuthurai and Cuddalore districts of Tamil Nadu, India, over two consecutive years twice a monthly. Systematic monthly surveys were conducted to record nest presence on tree, shrub, climber, and parasitic plant species, and seasonal and inter-annual variations were analysed. A total of 41 plant species belonging to 24 families were documented as nesting substrates, with Mayiladuthurai exhibiting higher host plant diversity, while Cuddalore consistently recorded greater nest abundance, indicating higher habitat suitability. Nest presence showed marked seasonal variation, with peak occurrence during summer months (March–May) and a decline during post-monsoon and winter periods. Inter-annual comparison revealed increased nesting activity in 2024, suggesting colony stabilization under may be favourable environmental conditions. Weaver ants showed a strong preference for evergreen and broad-leaved host plants, particularly members of Anacardiaceae, Moraceae, and Menispermaceae. The findings highlight the importance of vegetation structure, seasonal climate, and floristic composition in shaping weaver ant nesting dynamics and underscore the potential of O. smaragdina as a natural biological control agent in tropical agroecosystems
Clinical Applications of Tiva and Piva Protocols for Soft Tissue and Orthopaedic Surgeries in Goats
No full textAims: The present study aims to evaluate the clinical application and surgical acceptability of balanced anaesthetic protocols using total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA) and partial intravenous anaesthesia (PIVA) in goats undergoing soft tissue and orthopaedic surgical procedures.
Study Design: A prospective clinical observational study.
Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Mannuthy and the University Veterinary Hospital, Veterinary and Animal Sciences University Kokkalai, Thrissur, Kerala, India, between 2020 to 2023.
Methodology: Goats of either sex undergoing soft tissue or orthopaedic surgeries were anaesthetised using balanced TIVA and PIVA protocols incorporating an α₂-adrenergic agonist–opioid combination for premedication, followed by intravenous induction with tiletamine–zolazepam. Anaesthesia was maintained either exclusively with intravenous agents (TIVA) or by intravenous induction followed by inhalational isoflurane maintenance (PIVA), depending on the surgical procedure. Clinical parameters assessed included quality of induction, operative conditions, degree of muscle relaxation, incidence of anaesthesia-related complications, and recovery characteristics.
Results: Both TIVA and PIVA provided smooth induction, adequate depth of anaesthesia, satisfactory muscle relaxation, and stable surgical conditions for both soft tissue and orthopaedic procedures. No significant anaesthesia-related complications occurred. Recovery was smooth in all animals, with relatively faster recovery noted in goats maintained under PIVA. Physiological parameters during anaesthesia were clinically stable precluding any need for pharmacological interventions.
Conclusion: Balanced TIVA and PIVA protocols using tiletamine–zolazepam were both found to be clinically safe, effective, and acceptable for routine surgical interventions and procedures in goats. Both techniques offer practical anaesthetic options across diverse clinical settings, including field and resource-limited environments, supporting their wider application in small ruminant surgical management
Assessing Soil Transmitted Helminth Infections through Clinic-Based Survey and Household Survey in Darbhanga Bihar, India
No full textSoil-transmitted helminths (STHs) continue to pose a significant public health concern in Bihar, India, where flooding, poverty, and inadequate sanitation facilitate endemic transmission. Few studies have concurrently evaluated clinical and community groups to ascertain the comprehensive burden. A dual-arm cross-sectional investigation was carried out in the Darbhanga district. The clinical survey investigated 2,100 stool samples from people who went to a diagnostic lab, and the community survey investigated 615 samples from randomly chosen rural and urban families from January to December 2022. Kato-Katz processed all the samples, and standardised questionnaires were used to look at demographic, socioeconomic, and hygienic factors. Chi-square and odds ratios (OR) were used to examine statistical connections. In the clinical arm, the prevalence of STH surpassed 80%, with infection rates inversely linked with educational attainment (χ² = 66.4, p < 0.00001). There was a substantial relationship between hookworm and anaemia (OR = 3.95, 95% CI: 1.90–8.18). The effect of education and income on STH prevalence was statistically significant. In the community arm, the total prevalence was 55.1%, with roundworm (45.4%) being the most frequent, followed by hookworm (31.0%) and whipworm (23.6%). There were no major changes based on age or sex. Rural residents exhibited a considerably higher prevalence compared to their urban counterparts (61.1% vs. 49.4%; χ² = 8.62, p = 0.0033). Income was substantially linked to infection: low-income households were more vulnerable to STH infection compared to high-income groups. STH infection continues to be hyperendemic in Darbhanga, with clinical data underscoring its high incidence and anaemia load, and community data revealing differences in rural and socioeconomic contexts. We need integrated control efforts right away that include deworming, sanitation, and reducing poverty
Nose Muzzle Print Biometrics for Cattle Identification and Livestock Management: A Review
No full textIndividual animal identification is a milestone of modern livestock management, crucial for ensuring efficient and sustainable development within the livestock sector. This review provides a comprehensive examination of cattle identification through nose (muzzle) prints, a highly promising biometric application. It delves into the unique dermatoglyphic patterns of bovine muzzles, comparing their inherent uniqueness. The report traces the evolution of identification methodologies from traditional, often invasive, physical impression techniques to advanced digital approaches leveraging sophisticated image processing, machine learning, and deep learning algorithms. It highlights the significant advantages of muzzle print biometrics, including their non-invasive nature, contribution to animal welfare, and high accuracy in diverse applications such as disease control, traceability, and theft prevention. Furthermore, the review explores the challenges in real-world implementation, particularly concerning environmental factors and animal movement, and projects future advancements, emphasizing the synergistic integration of muzzle print technology within broader smart farming ecosystems encompassing the Internet of Things (IoT), predictive analytics, and blockchain. The major concern was on proper identification of cattle for registration and of cattle on an official test so that the possibility of swapping, false insurance claims and ownership disputes can be guarded. This technique will certainly help in livestock census to avoid duplication and also helpful in geographical tagging of specific breeds as no two breeds are having same nose muzzle pattern and it can be compared to human finger prints
Strategy for Managing Conflict between Humans and Carnivores: The Case of Leopards (Panthera pardus Linnaeus, 1758) in Maharashtra, India
No full textWildlife conflict has emerged as a major conservation and socio-economic challenge in India, particularly in regions where large carnivores persist in human-dominated landscapes. The leopard (Panthera pardus Linnaeus, 1758), owing to its ecological adaptability, is frequently involved in conflict situations involving livestock depredation and occasional human injuries. Maharashtra has become one of the most prominent hotspots of human–leopard conflict due to rapid land-use.
The primary objective of this review is to synthesize and critically evaluate existing peer-reviewed literature on the drivers of human–leopard conflict in Maharashtra and to assess the effectiveness of various conflict resolution strategies employed in the region. change, agricultural intensification, and urban expansion.
The review focuses on Maharashtra, India, encompassing forested, agricultural, and peri-urban landscapes. A systematic literature review was conducted using peer-reviewed articles sourced from Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, and studies published between 2011 and 2025 were screened, with emphasis on recent research (2021–2025). Peer-reviewed journal articles relevant to leopard ecology, conflict dynamics, and mitigation strategies were included. In addition to peer-reviewed literature, government reports and official documents were consulted to contextualize conflict trends, management responses, and policy frameworks.
The review indicates that habitat fragmentation, livestock depredation, and socio-cultural perceptions are key drivers of conflict. Reactive interventions such as translocation have shown limited long-term effectiveness, whereas preventive and community-based strategies—including improved livestock husbandry, compensation schemes, awareness programs, and landscape-level planning—offer more sustainable coexistence outcomes. The findings highlight the need for integrated, evidence-based management approaches that align leopard conservation goals with human well-being and development planning
Length-weight Relationship and Condition Factor of Fishes Collected from Chembarambakkam Lake, Tamilnadu, India
No full textThe current study describes the length weight relationship of four different fish species, Oreochromis mossambicus, Osteobrama cotio, and Pseudetroplus maculatus and Systomus sarana to signify the aquatic condition of fishes collected from Chembarambakkam Lake, Tamil Nadu. A total of 135 fish individuals from four species were sampled, and each total length and weight were confirmed to be unique. Estimated LWR parameter “b” (slope) highted with positive allometric growth patterns in Oreochromis mossambicus, Osteobrama cotio, and Pseudetroplus maculatus and negative allometric in Systomus sarana. Fulton\u27s and relative condition factor results represented greater than 1 in Oreochromis mossambicus, Osteobrama cotio, and Pseudetroplus maculatus and Systomus sarana ranged to 0.85 - 0.99. LWR parameter exhibited unique ranges in four different fish species studied might be due to shape & size of fishes, development pattern, etc. This study is the first baseline report on Length-weight relationship of the fish species taken from Chembarambakkam lake and the results can be considered as a basic biological parameter that might be useful partly for conservation and management of the examined fishes. It is expected that the findings of this study will enhance stock assessment and management of fish population in Chembarambakkam lake ecosystem
Effect of Aqueous Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Extract Supplementation on Growth Performance and Production Efficiency in Broiler Chickens
No full textAn experiment was conducted to assess the effect of aqueous ginger extract supplementation on growth performance, production efficiency and return over feed cost in broiler chickens. A total of 192, day-old broiler chicks were allocated randomly into four dietary treatments with 48 birds per treatment. The dietary treatments were T1: Basal diet, T2: Basal diet + 50 ml aqueous extract of ginger in 1000 ml of water per day, T3: Basal diet + 100 ml aqueous extract of ginger in 1000 ml of water per day and T4: Basal diet + 200 ml aqueous extract of ginger in 1000 ml of water per day. The parameters studied were body weights, feed intake, feed conversion ratio, protein intake and efficiency, production efficiency and return over feed cost. Results revealed that the final body weight and overall body weight gain were significantly (P<0.001) improved in T3 and T4 groups followed by T2 group as compared to control (T1) group. The total feed intake was 3880.13, 3866.97, 3832.72 and 3761.29 g/bird in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups, respectively, indicating significant (P<0.001) reduction in feed intake with increasing levels of aqueous ginger extract supplementation in broiler chickens. The overall FCR values were 1.81, 1.75, 1.68 and 1.64 in T1, T2, T3 and T4 groups, respectively, showing significant (P<0.001) improvement in feed conversion efficiency with increasing levels of ginger extract. The mean protein efficiency ratio in broiler chickens were significantly (P=0.002) improved in T4 (2.57) followed by T3 (2.50) and T2 (2.41) groups as compared to the T1 (2.32) group. The overall production efficiency factor was significantly (P=0.004) higher with increasing levels of aqueous ginger extract supplementation than the control group. The return over the feed cost of T1 group (control) compared to T2, T3 and T4 was 25.20, 48.48 and 63.48 % respectively. Based on the results of the study, it could be concluded that supplementation of aqueous ginger extract in water improved body weight gain, feed conversion ratio, protein and production efficiency and return over feed cost in broiler chickens