DNA “fingerprints” and paternity ascertainment in chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes)

Highly variable regions of DNA are found in a wide diversity of organisms and are typically composed of alleles consisting of a variable number of tandem repeats (VNTRs) of a short core sequence. DNA fingerprinting probes are VNTR probes that simultaneously detect a large number of similar VNTRs in the target DNA. The highly polymorphic pattern observed in a DNA fingerprint allows resolution of questions concerning individual identification. M13 phage was used to fingerprint captive chimpanzees for paternity ascertainment. Although the probability of band sharing among captive chimps appears to be higher than among some other reported captive and feral animal populations, the probe is highly useful and can be expected to become more widely used in the genetic management of captive populations.     

“Stepping-sticks” and “seat-sticks”: New types of tools used by wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) in Sierra Leone

In Tenkere, Sierra Leone, a community of wild chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes verus) spent long hours eating the fruits and flowers of the Kapok (Ceiba pentandra) tree. The branches of this species are covered in sharp thorns which make movement in their high canopies problematic for the chimpanzees. In an apparent attempt to increase their mobility and to ease the discomfort of lengthy bouts of eating in these trees, some of the Tenkere chimpanzees have been observed using stick tools as foot (“stepping-sticks”) and body (“seat-sticks”) protection against the painful thorns. This form of tool-using is culturally unique to the Tenkere chimpanzees, as at other sites where these apes have been observed eating parts of kapok trees, there are no published records of this tool technology. In three of the stepping-stick tool use incidents, the chimpanzee used the tool(s), held between their greater and lesser toes, in locomotion. This form of tool use is the first recorded case of habitually used tools that can be justifiably categorized as being “worn” by any known wild population of Pan troglodytes. Am J Primatol 41:45–52, 1997. © 1997 Wiley-Liss, Inc.     

Genetic consequences of fragmentation in “arbor vitae,” eastern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis L.), toward the northern limit of its distribution range

We tested the hypothesis that marginal fragmented populations of eastern white cedar (EWC) are genetically isolated due to reduced pollen and gene flow. In accordance with the central-marginal model, we predicted a decrease in population genetic diversity and an increase in differentiation along the latitudinal gradient from the boreal mixed-wood to northern coniferous forest. A total of 24 eastern white cedar populations were sampled along the north-south latitudinal gradient for microsatellite genotyping analysis. Positive F_is values and heterozygote deficiency were observed in populations from the marginal (F_is = 0.244; P_HW = 0.0042) and discontinuous zones (F_is = 0.166; P_HW = 0.0042). However, populations from the continuous zone were in HW equilibrium (F_is = −0.007; P_HW = 0.3625). There were no significant latitudinal effects on gene diversity (H_s), allelic richness (AR), or population differentiation (F_st). Bayesian and NJT (neighbor-joining tree) analyses demonstrated the presence of a population structure that was partly consistent with the geographic origins of the populations. The impact of population fragmentation on the genetic structure of EWC is to create a positive inbreeding coefficient, which was two to three times higher on average than that of a population from the continuous zone. This result indicated a higher occurrence of selfing within fragmented EWC populations coupled with a higher degree of gene exchange among near-neighbor relatives, thereby leading to significant inbreeding. Increased population isolation was apparently not correlated with a detectable effect on genetic diversity. Overall, the fragmented populations of EWC appear well-buffered against effects of inbreeding on genetic erosion.     

Identifying spawning sites and other critical habitat in lotic systems using eDNA “snapshots”: A case study using the sea lamprey Petromyzon marinus L.

Many aquatic species of conservation concern exist at low densities and are inherently difficult to detect or monitor using conventional methods. However, the introduction of environmental (e)DNA has recently transformed our ability to detect these species and enables effective deployment of limited conservation resources. Identifying areas for breeding, as well as the ecological distribution of species, is vital to the survival or recovery of a conservation species (i.e., areas of critical habitat). In many species, spawning events are associated with a higher relative abundance of DNA released within an aquatic system (i.e., gametes, skin cells etc.), making this the ideal time to monitor these species using eDNA techniques. This study aims to examine whether a “snapshot” eDNA sampling approach (i.e., samples taken at fixed points in chronological time) could reveal areas of critical habitat including spawning sites for our target species Petromyzon marinus. We utilized a species‐specific qPCR assay to monitor spatial and temporal patterns in eDNA concentration within two river catchments in Ireland over three consecutive years. We found that eDNA concentration increased at the onset of observed spawning activity and patterns of concentration increased from downstream to upstream over time, suggesting dispersal into the higher reaches as the spawning season progressed. We found P. marinus to be present upstream of several potential barriers to migration, sometimes in significant numbers. Our results also show that the addition of a lamprey‐specific fish pass at an “impassable” weir, although assisting in ascent, did not have any significant impact on eDNA concentration upstream after the pass had been installed. eDNA concentration was also found to be significantly correlated with both the number of fish and the number of nests encountered. The application of snapshot sampling techniques for species monitoring therefore has substantial potential for the management of low‐density species in fast‐moving aquatic systems.     

Die Feinstruktur der Kolbenzellen (Schreckstoffzellen) in der Epidermis von Astyanax mexicanus Filippi 1853 (Characinidae,Pisces) und seinen Höhlenderivaten “Anoptichthys”

Fine Structure of the Club Cells (Alarm Substance Cells) in the Epidermis of Astyanax mexicanus Filippi 1853 (Characinidae, Pisces) and its Cave Forms “Anoptichthys” The club cells in the epidermis of Astyanax mexicanus are of the same ultrastructure as those in other Ostariophysan fish. There are also no essential differences to be found between the club cells of epigean Astyanax mexicanus and its cave forms “Anoptichthys”. Our findings correspond to former statements in that the function of the club cells producing and releasing alarm substances has been maintained in the cave forms.     

A Study of Diaphanosoma Species (Crustacea: Cladocera) of the “Mongolianum” Group

Material from 49 localities in Europe, Asia and Africa is used to study two similar Diaphanosoma species, viz. D. mongolianum UENO, 1938, and D. lacustris KORINEK, 1981, both of which were described earlier under other names, the most common of which were “D. brachyurum”, “D. leuchtenbergianum” and “D. birgei lacustris”. These species are redescribed in detail, consideration being given to interpopulational and individual morphological variability, the type material, and material from type localities. The morphology of the setae of the swimming antennae is studied in detail, and the author concludes that some of them are not only used for swimming but also perform a sensory function. Some aspects of the biology of the species are described. They inhabit water bodies of different types, are often so abundant that they constitute the main component of zooplankton communities, and are an important link in the trophic chain. Little known cases of the co-occurrence of Diaphanosoma species in a water body are described. Localities known for D. mongolianum and D. lacustris are situated mainly in the temperate and subtropical zones, the former species penetrating farther north than the latter. However, they are also found in the White Nile (Sudan) and Ethiopian lakes. This southward penetration may be connected with the azonal distribution of fluviatile fauna and with the altitude of Ethiopian lakes.     

The pronghorn (Antilocapra americana): A review as a model for development of a “Species Management Plan” format,Part I

A format is suggested for a “Species Management Plan”; the model for this presentation is the pronghorn (Antilocapra americana). By using the Species Management Plan format, the captive maintenance of pronghorn is analyzed in relation to habitat and microhabitat needs, behavioral requirements, and nutritional needs. A strategy for captive maintenance of pronghorn in relatively wet climates is presented. It is suggested that development of a Species Management Plan is necessary before any new species is acquired for captive maintenance and reproduction.     

Fisherian and “good genes” benefits of mate choice: how (not) to distinguish between them

“Good genes” models of mate choice are commonly tested by examining whether attractive males sire offspring with improved survival. If offspring do not survive better (or indeed survive less well), but instead inherit the attractiveness of their father, results are typically interpreted to support the Fisherian process, which allows the evolution of preferences for arbitrary traits. Here, I show that the above view is mistaken. Because of life‐history trade‐offs, an attractive male may perform less well in other components of fitness. A female obtains a “good genes” benefit whenever males show heritable variation in quality, even if high‐quality males invest so much in sexual advertisement that attractiveness has no positive correlation with any other life‐history trait than male mating success itself. Therefore, a negative correlation between attractiveness and viability does not falsify good genes, if mating with a high‐quality male results on average in superior offspring performance (mating success of sons included). The heritable “good genes” benefit can be sustained even if sexually antagonistic genes cause female offspring sired by high‐quality males to survive and reproduce less well. Neglecting the component of male mating success from measurements of fitness returns from sons and daughters will bias the advantage of mating with a high‐quality male downwards. This result may partly account for the rather weak “good genes” effects found in a recent meta‐analysis.     

“Pollen Buds” in Ophiorrhiza (Rubiaceae) and their Role in Pollenkitt Release

Pollen buds are apertural protrusions formed by the ectintine. In their wall unesterified and methyl-esterified pectins are detected by immunogold labeling. During pollenkitt formation pollen buds become adpressed and connected to the tapetum wall. The following expansion of the endothecium causes the mechanical rupture of the tapetum at the binding sites of the pollen buds. These events are accompanied by the release of the pollenkitt.     

Wild squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus) “caregiver” calls: Contexts and acoustic structure

A field study of the vocal behavior of 22 wild adult female squirrel monkeys (Saimiri sciureus) in Parque Nacional del Manu, Peru, found that 21% of vocalizations were “caregiver” calls. Caregiver calls are brief, low frequency calls, often with numerous harmonics, that are addressed by caregivers to their own infants in three contexts: 1) prenurse, signalling the caregiver's location and willingness to nurse; 2) nurse, while nursing; and 3) end nurse, indicating the end of the nursing bout. Three measures (start, end, and peak frequency) of the acoustic structure of the fundamental frequency of the caregiver calls significantly differed across the contexts. Duration of caregiver calls, however, was not distinguished by context. Compared to other primate taxa, the specificity and importance of caregiver calls in squirrel monkey vocal behavior appears unusual, if not unique. That S. sciureus caregiver calls are highly developed and employed so extensively probably follows from an unusual combination of ecological and life history factors. These factors include delayed weaning and large infant body size, high levels of indirect foraging competition which encourages spatial separation, susceptibility to predation, and specialization on a densely foliated, branch-end microhabitat in which visual contact is often impeded. © 1995 Wiley-Liss, Inc.     

Isolation and characterization of eight microsatellite loci in Leporinus macrocephalus (Characiformes: Anostomidae) and cross‐species amplification

Leporinus macrocephalus is a species endemic to the Paraguay River basin and an important fishery resource, as well as a valuable species in aquaculture programs. A total of eight polymorphic microsatellite loci were isolated and characterized. A population survey was conducted involving 45 specimens whereby a large number of alleles (range 5–17 among loci), a highly observed (0.1667–0.6129) and an expected (0.6967–0.9448) heterozygosity was detected, indicating its usefulness in population genetics studies. Cross‐species amplification was successful in eight Characiformes species.     

Formation and function of the “Xestoleberis‐spot” in Xestoleberis hanaii (Crustacea: Ostracoda)

The crescent sculpture of the so‐called “Xestoleberis‐spot” develops inside the calcified valve of the family Xestoleberididae. Electron microscopic observations on both, intermoult and postmoult stages of Xestoleberis species reveal that the “Xestoleberis‐spot” system consists of three elements; two calcified chambers, a vesicle of electron‐dense material and an uncalcified procuticle. The formation and function of the “Xestoleberis‐spot” system are discussed. In conclusion, the “Xestoleberis‐spot” system functions as the muscle attachment site for several antennal muscles, and provides the material for chitinous fibers in the exocuticle of outer lamella. The unique cuticular structures of the family Xestoleberididae are due to the “Xestoleberis‐spot” system.     

“Environmental stress” and reproductive success in the common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus jacchus)

The present report documents the breeding success of a new colony of common marmosets (Callithrix jacchus jacchus) and demonstrates a correlation between environmental stress and reproductive success. Environmental conditions ranged chronologically over 40 months, through four periods: I) the initial period, when the colony was formed; II) a phase of relative environmental stability; III) a stage of “environmental stress” (when the colony was disrupted by nearby construction); and IV) a return to a stable environment. Examination of reproductive status during each period indicated that the colony exhibited severe reproductive suppression during the time of the environmental disruption. Parity and the number of live births decreased and the number of spontaneous abortions increased during this period. Reproductive success remained low during period IV. More triplets than twins were born during the period of relative environmental stability.     

“Making coin” and the networker: Masculine self‐making in the Australian professional managerial class

In this article I unpack the labour of “networking” to understand the changes in sociality and worker identity that have occurred in the Australian professional managerial class workforce under post‐Fordism. Drawing on fieldwork undertaken at the interface of the pubic service and private consultancy firms in Canberra, I break from dominant readings of intimacy in post‐Fordism which preference either a downwards imposition of “ways of being” from capital to worker, or a reactive self‐regulation in line with objective external structures. Networking, I argue, is as much about being recognised as patron as it is about any tangible economic benefits. The intimate relations and self‐fashioning of networking constitute attempts to embody particular classed, sexualised, gendered fantasies of the figure of “the networker” in post‐Fordist Australian business culture. This interpretation does not necessitate overlooking the tangible results of networking, and I discuss too, how masculine fantasy structures the topography of workplaces.     

Murine “housekeeping” enzyme (genetic locus:Idh-1) is regulated in an allele-specific manner

The murine “housekeeping” enzyme, cytosolic NADP-isocitrate dehydrogenase (E.C. 1.1.1.42) (genetic locus:Idh-1), exhibited a complex pattern of allele-specific expression. Protein electrophoresis on cellulose-acetate gels and determination of relative enzymatic activity by means of densitometry revealed that in heart tissue (but not liver tissue) of certain hybrid crosses the AA-homodimer was underrepresented relative to total enzymatic activity, and the degree of underrepresentation changed during development. In mixtures of homozygous tissue extracts of heart tissue (but not liver tissue) the AA-homodimer was underrepresented relative to the BB-homodimer. Relative activity of allelic isozymes varied as a function of tissue (heart versus liver), age, and the parental source of the Idh-1^a allele, but did not vary as a function of sex. Allele-specific expression was also exhibited in kidney tissue of the same animals. In adult male kidney tissue extracts from heterozygotes, the AA-hornodimer was underrepresented relative to total enzymatic activity; in adult female kidney tissue extracts from heterozygotes, a more codominant phenotype was observed. Tissue extracts from immature hybrid animals exhibited a phenotype midway between the adult male and adult female phenotypes. Tissue extracts from castrated males exhibited a phenotype equivalent to that seen in females. Relative activity of allelic isozymes in kidney varied as a function of age and sex, but did not vary as a function of the parental source of the Idh-1^a allele. While cytosolic NADP-IDH is a “housekeeping” enzyme, expressed in multiple tissues of the mouse, differences in the relative intensities of allelic isozyme bands provide evidence for tissue- and stage-specific regulatory variation.     

Spatial Associations and Social Interactions in a “Solitary” Ungulate: the Bushbuck Tragelaphus scriptus (Pallas)

The bushbuck population in a study area of 0.7 km² in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda, was observed between June 22 and July 30, 1971. The animals (4 ♂♂, 10 ♀♀, 4 immat.) were individually recognizable. Observations consisted of census sightings and longitudinal observations; during the latter location, neighbours, social encounters and other behaviour of focal animals were recorded continuously. 71% of the census sightings were of single animals. Hardly any aggression was observed, nor did the bushbuck actively avoid one-another. The definition of the term “solitary” and possible advantages of a dispersed social system for the bushbuck are discussed.     

“Balloon hairs” of gipsy moth larvae (Lep., Lymantriidae): morphology and comparative chemistry

The “balloon hairs” of L₁ caterpillars of Lymantria dispar (Lep., Lymantriidae) are jointed, hollow and filled with a fluid. Detection of nicotine in the balloon hairs as well as feeding-deterrent effects of whole larvae and nicotine on ants indicate that these setae serve for defense against predatory arthropods and parasitoids but not for soaring of the larvae. Titers of nicotine and other components were determined for several developmental stages of L. dispar and compared.     

Comparison of confined mandrill (Mandrillus sphinx) behavior in traditional and “ecologically representative” exhibits

Behavior in a confined group of mandrills (Mandrillus sphinx) was compared before and after their move from a traditional, all indoor exhibit to an indoor/outdoor facility. The outdoor exhibit was designed to represent as well as is possible important features of the mandrills' forest habitat. We predicted that activity budgets in the outdoor exhibit would more closely resemble those of wild African Cercopithecines, specifically that time spent in forage/feed, locomotion, and social behavior would increase and time spent stationary would decrease. Time spent in forage/feed, locomotion, and stationary did change, as expected. However, there was a small significant decrease in some social behaviors. Differences in proximate environmental contingencies may explain the behavioral changes observed: feeding/foraging opportunities throughout the time on exhibit; increased social refuges; modest increase in facility size; and significantly increased environmental complexity and novelty. Our results are discussed within the context of data obtained from mandrills and baboons observed along a theoretical continuum between confined and free‐ranging environments. This analysis supports what others have suggested: that primate well‐being is not so much a function of confinement as of the presence of relevant incentives to engage in species‐appropriate behavior. Zoo Biol 18:163–176, 1999. © 1999 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.     

“Porpicide” in California: Killing of harbor porpoises (Phocoena phocoena) by coastal bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)

Between 2007 and 2009, we witnessed three aggressive interactions between harbor porpoises and bottlenose dolphins in Monterey Bay, California. This is the first time such aggression has been documented in the Pacific, and the first time a harbor porpoise was collected immediately after witnessing its death, inflicted by bottlenose dolphins. Of the bottlenose dolphins present, 92% were males either confirmed (61%) or putative (31%). Since 2005, 44 harbor porpoise deaths inflicted by bottlenose dolphins were documented in California. Aberrant behavior was rejected as a cause of aggression, based on widespread documentation of similar behaviors in other populations of free‐ranging bottlenose dolphins. The evidence for interspecies territoriality as a form of competition for prey was weak: there is little dietary overlap and there are differences in bottlenose dolphin and harbor porpoise distribution patterns in California. Object‐oriented play was plausible as a form of practice to maintain intraspecific infanticidal skills or a form of play to maintain fighting skills between male associates. Contributing factors could be high‐testosterone levels, as attacks occurred at the height of the breeding season, and/or a skewed operational sex ratio. Ultimately, we need more information about bottlenose dolphin social structure at the time of the aggression.