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cies ~ JOURNAL ( OF ° THE
- ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY OF INDIA
fe Published hooves containing | Original Papers and
anches of Pure and Applied Zoology
aes Bree per Volume of Two Issues :
Rs. 22/- Foreign; Rs. 20/- Inland.
| A few bak numbers ae aio avalabls |
served for adve tsements at rates available from
e Mus staan of the Indian Museum, Fauna of India (new volumes), 3
f] “ce ad etna of «fy pg fhe Inn Hemintnogt
Lae eae erao, could abe now (ie sa on Office of
at a eA:
6 coloured plates depicting 22: pug es, and 22 | in mono-
(to members Rs. 26)s0h
_ THe Bompay Narurat History Society
CONTENTS OF VOLUME 33, NO. 1
PAGE
“Two BITTERNS IN A PENANG MARSH, PART II, By Loke Wan‘ Tho (With
1 coloured and 4 black & white plates) bss seh wat 1
_A Note on Afpanieles flavipes CAM., A BRACONID PARASITE OF THE CHOLAM
StEM Borer, Chilo zonellus Swinu. By K.C. Chandy, M.a., Assoc.
IARI. (With 1 text figure) ee Sa Pa =, 6
_A BoTANICAL ExcurSION TO NoRtTH KANARA, BOMBAY STATE, IN May
1954. By H. Santapau, S.J., F.N.Ie «se abe a3 ae 10
-SomE BrrRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL. By Col. D. G. Lowndes.
(With a sketch map) abn oe ans ot Le 29
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN. By Daya Krishna, p.8HIL.
(Alld.), PH.D. (Cantab.), F.z.S., and Ishwar Prakash (With 4 fext-
figures) wn aes zh wes nae ae 38
_NOTES ON A COLLECTION OF FISH FROM THE HEADWATERS OF THE BHAVANI
RIVER, SouTH INpIA. By S. Rajan ... me 13. at 44
“Brrp MIGRATION AND FOWLING IN AFGHANISTAN. By S. A. Akhtar.
(With a map) Res aise aes eee ae 49
_A New Polygala From SoutH Inpia. By SS. K. Mukerjee (With a
plate) odb Pp 60K 500 B00 54
“More NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY. By Desiré2
Proud aa OD ae cae e's sy, 57
THE FUNCTION OF ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS IN THE PRESERVATION OF WILD
LIFE. By E. P. Gee, M.a.,C.M.Z.S. (With 4 plates) ih 79
-Bronomics oF Uventius echinus Dist. (HZMIPTERA-HETEROPTERA :
TINGIDAE) AN IMPORTANT PEST OF BRINJAL (Solanum melongena L.)
IN NORTH GUJARAT. By R. C. Patel, M.sc. (Agri.) and H. L. Kulkarny,
M.Sc. (With 2 plates) wee We on he 86
“Some NortES ON THE RICE GALL-FLY, Pachidiplosis oryzae (W.-M.). By
Dr. M. Q. Khan, m.sc., PH.D. (LOND.), D.I.c. and D. V. Murthy, prp.
AGRI. a sok
oes bee SS ax 97
WILD LIFE PRESERVATION IN INDIA—ANNUAL REPORT FOR 1953 ON THE
SOUTHERN REGION. By Y. R. Ghorpade ane 500 ce) 10G
_REVIEWS :—
1, The Seals and the Curragh (L.F.) eco 580 seed 0
2. Someof my Animals (L.F.) of ate so HO
3. Introduction to the Birds of Jamaica (S.A, he ry , BN oT
4, The Fruit, the Seed and the Soil (A.J.A.) ie Be dis)
5. Birds of the Sudan (H.A.) a3 oo ae ao ND
4. Nature Parade (H.A.)... ae wo oe
li CONTENTS OF VOLUME 53, NO. 1—(contd.)
7. Progress of Zoology in India during the Years 1938-1950 (E,G.S.).
8. The Annals of Zoology, Voi. 1 (1) (E.G.S.) 56 oe
9. Living Fossils (J.C.D.) 506
10.. The Wild Flowers of Kuwait and Bahrain (H. ‘Saraiacea)
11. The Book of Indian Birds (B. Biswas)
12. Some Beautiful Indian Trees (H. Santapaw)
13. Some Beautiful Indian Climbers and Shrubs (H. Santapen)
soo
eon
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES :—
1, The Abominable Snowman. Editors (p.121). 2. Remarkable Re-
covery of a Panther from Injury. Editors (With a photo) (p. 122). 3. Nema-
todes and Fledgebog Mortality. Ishwar Prakash & S. C. Sharma (p. 123).
4, Tufted Deer in Burma (Elaphodus cephalophus Milne-Edwards). U Tun
Yin (With @ photo) (p. 123). 5. The Indian Elephant (2. maximus) :
Early growth gradient and intervals between calfing, E. P. Gee (With
4 plates) (p. 125). 6. The Rosy Pastor in the Bellary Area. M. Krishnan
(p. 128). 7. Nesting of House Sparrows in Trees. A.S.Thyagaraju, M.A.
(p. 129). 8. The Courtship (? Display of the Blackbacked Indian Robin
{ Sazicoloides fulicata (Linn.)] A.S. Thyagaraju; m.a. (p. 129). 9. Occur-
rence of the Whitewinged Black Tern (Chlidenias leucopierus Temm.) in
Saurashtra. Shivrajkumar (p. 130). 10. Breeding of Sarus Crane [Awéz-
gone a. antigone (Linn. )] in Captivity. R. K. Lahiri (p. 130). 11. Wilson’s
Petrel [(Oceanites oceanicus (Kuhl)] in Indo-Ceylon Waters, with special
reference to the 1954 Southward Migration. W. W: A. Phillips (p. 132).
12. Some New Bird Records in the Palni Hills, South India. Br. A. Novarro
(p. 133). 13. Extension of Range of the Lizard Cnemaspis kandiana
(Kelaart), Humayun Abdulali (p. 134). 14. Pythons. C. J. T. Wrenicke
(p. 134). 15. A ‘White’ Python. R. K. Lahiri (With a photo) (p. 135).
16. On the Allocation of the ‘name Coluber platurinus Shaw. Alan E.
PAGE
113i:
114
115
116.
117
118
118
Leviton (p. 136). 17. Fisheries of certain ‘Tropical Fishes in natural cold.
waters of India. S. L. Hora (p. 138). 18. Some interesting features of
the Aquatic Fauna of the Kashmir Valley. S. L. Hora, G. M. Mulik
and H. Khajuria (p. 140). 19. The Royal Cells of the Termite Odonto-
termes obésus with unusually large openings. H. S. Vishnoi (Wzth one photo)
(p. 143). 20. The Butterfly Zhecla triloka Hannyngton (Lepidoptera-
Lycaenidae). W. H. Evans (p. 144). 21. Adaptive Coloration and Camou-
flage of the Common Membracid (‘Tree-Hopper’) Ofiuotus oneratus
Walk. (Homoptera: Rhynchota). Basanta Kumar Behura (p. 145).
22. Incidence of Mango Flower Gallsin Bombay Karnatak. H. L. Kulkarny
(With a photo) (p. 147). 23. Swarming of Long-horned Grasshoppers
(Mecapoda elongata) Humayun Abdulali (p.148). 24. Leeches. W.R.
Sykes (p. 148). 25. Occurrence of the Freshwater Medusae, Limnocnida
Indica Annandale, in Thunga River near Shimoga Town, Mysore State.
H. D. R. lyengar and K. Venkatesh (p. 151). 26. A New Weed for Ceylon.
A. H. G. Alston (p. 151). 27. A Note on the Flora of Mirzapur
(U.P.). J. G. Srivastava (p. 152). 28. Some Edible and Medicinal Plants
from East Nepal. M. L. Banerji (p.153).. 29. An abnormal condition of
fruiting in Banana. G.S. Srivastava (p..155). 30. Abnormal branching
‘and fasciation of the Inflorescence Axis in Musa paradisiaca Linn. R. Rama-
swami (With a plate) (p. 156). 31. Laurentia Longiflora Endl., a new
record for Bombay State. H. Santapau, sy. (With a plate) ‘(p. 156).
32. A Vasculum for.the Mountaineer. M.L. Banerji.(W2th two.figures)
(p. 158). 33. Gleanings (p. 160).
NOTES AND NEWS. ... let oe ade ft SOR
162°
Journ. BomBay NAT. HIsT. Soc. PLATE I
Kodachrome 5 ~ Loke Wan Tho
The Chestnut Bittern
(Ixobrychus cimnamomeus)
Male
JOURNAL
OF THE
BOMBAY NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY
1955 . VoL. 53 No. 1
TWO BITTERNS IN A PENANG MARSH
BY
LOKE Wan THO
Part I]
(With 1 coloured and 4 black & white plates)
(Continued from Vol. 52, p. 691)
Tue CueEstnut BitTERN (Ixobrychus cinnamomeus)
During the weekend in August when the Yellow Bittern had been
successfully photographed, I had noticed in the same area a number of
Chestnut Bitterns whose spectacular plumage—of a colour better des-
cribed, as ‘chestnut’ than ‘cinnamon’—had made them more conspicuous
than their cousins. Less shy and retiring, they could be admired as they
stood in the open in some patch of the ricefield where the Scirpus.
grass had been cut. Not until an intruder came really close did
they take wing, and then it was that the bright brown-red of their
plumage could best be admired.
Most authorities speak of the bird being crepuscular and shy, but
Smythies makes an interesting observation:
‘This species is neither crespuscular nor shy in the breeding
season, when it becomes conspicuous and flies about in broad daylight,
but during the rest of the year it is secretive and not often seen.”’
Smythies goes on to quote Stanford who ‘once watched a male
bird displaying at midday, flying in front of the female with very
slow, stiff beats of the wings, which reminded me of the nuptial
* Note: One of the Malay names for the Chestnut Bittern is ‘burong gelam’,
i.e., bird of the gelam tree (Melaleuca leucodendron). What connexion our bittern
has with the familiar tree with the beautiful white bark, it is difficult to imagine,
unless perhaps that Melaleuca grows best near water, in marshy places close to
the sea. Had the word been ‘kelam’, instead of ‘gelam’, the meaning would have
been perfectly clear: ‘kelam’, according to Wilkinson's Malay Dictionary means
‘darkness, gloom or obscurity’.
HOV 1 5 195%
Y} JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 68
flight of a long-eared owl or a greenfinch’., Stanford also added that
the Yellow, Bittern sometimes behaves in the same way. -
The Chestnut Bittern is ‘widespread in the oriental region, and also
in north-eastern Asia’. It is a bird of the swamplands, but may be
found up to quite surprising heights above sea-level: thus, in north-
eastern Burma, it has been recorded at 6,000 feet, and Sdlim Ali saw
it in the vicinity of Periyar Lake, Travancore, at about 3,000 feet.
Nests are not easily tound, unless one is prepared to go tramping
through the marshes. There is a Malay belief that because the nest
is so difficult to find anyone who wears it on his head becomes invi-
sible: (See Chasen, ‘Birds of Singapore Island’, page g1). I re-
solved, however, that | would try to photograph the bird, not only
in black-and-white, but if possible also in colour. Mr. Cairns once
more generously offered to help, and in due course, the eagerly-
awaited news came that a nest had been found. As soon as I couid
disengage myself from the office, I flew to Penang, arriving at just
after 11 a.m. on the morning of Friday, September 17th. We went
straight out to the reed-beds at Ginting: on the way, we picked up
two soap-boxes, one for me to sit on, and the other to serve as a
table for my heavy camera case.
The first nest we inspected contained four young birds, already
so large that they clambered out of the nest at our approach, and
in so doing got themselves thoroughly wet by falling into the water.
It would have been useless to attempt photography here, so we tried
another nest which was situated about 40-50 yards away. In it were
four eggs, very clean and white, and so fresh that they looked pale
pink in the sunshine: the last egg of the clutch, Mr. Cairns told
me, had been laid only the day betore.
All three of the nests which I have had the good fortune to see
in Penang were of identical construction, consisting of a heavy flat-
tened pad of reeds and grass, mixed ‘with a few slender sticks and
rootlets. None was placed more than 12 inches above the level of
the water. Other writers have, on the whole, found the same thing,
but there are a few records of unusual sites. Stuart Baker quotes
Colonel Butler’s description of a nest in Belgaum which, consisting
of ‘a tolerably substantial pad of short pieces of coarse, damp sedge,
lined with pieces of dry grass, was built upon a small plot or rising
ground in the middle of an inundated cornfield. The island was
covered with grass about a foot from the ground, and some 9g or
10 feet from the water’s edge’. La Touche, writing about the birds
of Eastern China, refers to a pair of birds at Mengtsz where they were
found to ‘breed in the Commissioner of Customs’s garden in a rose-
arbour, the nest being placed several feet from the ground, and
the young. hatch out about the middle of June’.
Stuart Baker was of the opinion that the Chestnut Bittern is
bolder than the Yellow Bittern, and speaks of having found its nest
in the Botanical Gardens at Calcutta. Smythies, too, found a nest
in the Botanical Gardens at Maymyo, in Burma.
Profiting from the experience gained on my previous visit when
J had failed to obtain colour pictures of the male Yellow Bittern
because I had used only one camera at a time, I had now brought
fourN. Bompay Nar. Hrsr. Soc. Parcel
Rall and the hide set up in position at the Chestnut Bittern’s nest.
The twin mounting for the cameras to enable black-and-white and
colour photographs to be taken simultancously,
(Photos: W. T. Loke)
)
STNUT BITTERN, (FEMALE
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(Photos: W. T. Loke)
TWO BITTERNS IN A PENANG MARSH 3
with me a new gadget, made by my assistant Hwang, which allowed
two cameras to be used together on the same tripod. The cameras—
a quarter-plate Speed Graphic and a Leica with a 20 cm. lens—were
each mounted on its own pan-tilt head, and we had feared that their
combined weight might have proved too much for the single tripod,
but, fortunately, it remained rock-steady. How successful I was in
its use, the story which follows will tell.
Inside the hide, it was fiendishly hot. The sun poured like molten
lead out of an unclouded sky. This was not only untortunate for
my own comfort, but it caused the reeds to cast heavy shadows which
lay like black ribbons across the nest.
The female began creeping stealthily back soon after my helpers
had left me: a long neck rose up behind the nest, and a yellow eye
looked fixedly in my direction. Unable to detect any suspicious
movement, she lowered her head, and with deliberate steps moved
quietly and stealthily forward. Her yellow-green feet made only a
faint splash in the water, and the body, laterally compressed to faci-
litate her passage through the reeds, rustled them so gently that
I could not be sure if 1 had really heard a sound, or had merely
imagined it. Before long she stepped on to the nest which was not
more than 8 inches above the level of the water. The shutters of
the two cameras clicked almost simultaneously, but the bird paid
no heed, and it was only when I made too much noise tearing off
the paper tongue of my filmpack that she rose and slipped into
hiding: she soon came back and I exposed one film after another
in quick succession. .
The chestnut back of the female made a sharp contrast with the
bright colour of the underparts. Down the middle of her breast
there was a heavy streak, dark brown in colour, and on either side
were finer streakings that looked like brown thread stitched on
coarsely. As in the case of the Yellow Bitterns, the Chestnut Bittern
had a patch of dark feathers with pale brown edges on each side
of the breast. A similar patch was later noticed also in the male.
The female bird never became reconciled to the noise of paper
being torn from the filmpack, and after some two hours it was clear
that she was becoming more and more nervous, and so I decided
to leave her in peace. The photographic session ended at 4 p.m.
without my having had a single glimpse of the male. The pictures
of the female, both in colour and black-and-white, turned out passably
well, but would have been better had the fierce sun not laid black
weals on her back. .
The next morning I returned to the same nest to try and get a
picture of the cock bird which I hoped would by then be taking his
turn at incubation. Within minutes of my helpers leaving me, there
was a faint sound of dripping water and of a ‘noiseless noise’ within
the reeds. Again, a long neck stretched up cautiously and its owner
took a deep look at the hide; the examination proving satisfactory,
the bird began to approach the nest and would have eventually step-
ped on if, at that very moment, Ralli had not returned for his “parang”
* ‘parang’ (Malay) = long-bladed knife.
4 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 83
which he had left behind on a nearby bund. Like a flash, the bird
disappeared. The interruption was doubly unwelcome because I had
seen enough to realise that it was the male who had shown himself.
Fortunately, no great harm was done, and before long the routine
of inspection was repeated.
I waited for the male to use the same back-door route as the female.
All the grass in front of the nest had been cut only that morning—
indeed, we had arrived in the nick of time to prevent further damage —
and when the bird stepped out into the open and clambered on the
nest from the front, the action was totally unexpected. The male
had evidently been in the habit of approaching the nest by a different
route to that of his mate, and now, despite the lack of cover, force-
of-habit made him take the same path. However, it was clear that he
felt uncomfortable, and on subsequent approaches he adapted himself
to the changed circumstances and walked on, either from the side, or
from the back. The bird had, throughout, moved deliberately, and
with almost complete absence of noise: only once did he stumble, when
a reed gave way under him, and the sound it made in the silence was
like the crash of a tree falling in the jungle.
During the time when the Chestnut Bittern had been making his
quiet approach to the nest, a pair of Rails (Rallus striatus) were
behaving in quite the opposite manner. ‘They chased each other through
the reeds, making loud trilling sounds as they did so. I got a glimpse
of one bird as it slipped through the grass in front of the hide; the
upper part of the body was dark grey, and the head and bill a lovely
shade of red.
The Rails were not the only visitors. A young Yellow Bittern also
came very close to my hide, so close indeed that a quick movement
I made inside sent it scuttling away. Looking dapper in shiny new
feathers, it flicked its little stump of a black tail constantly up and
down like a waterhen. The long, thin neck was frequently stretched
out, and the tiny crest, in which black feathers were already showing,
was often raised. It never left the area and was my constant companion.
A Yellowbellied Wren-Warbler (Prinia flaviventris), too, appeared
within the arc of my vision. It sometimes came so close that I was
able to admire the yellow wash on its vent, and the white rmg round
the red eye. It looked handsome in a dress of new feathers, and
every reed was assiduously searched for insects.
Finally, another bird of equally fine feather, made a quick visit:
this was a Fantail Warbler (Cisticola) whose noisy clicking I had
heard in the distance all morning.
I noticed that the Chestnut Bitterns, unlike their cousins the
Yellow Bitterns, did not stretch out their necks in imitation of a
reed whenever danger threatened, but instead preferred to crouch.
The cock bird was more richly coloured than the hen. He, too,
had a chestnut line down the centre of the breast, but the “perforated
lines’ on either side were missing. The base of the mandibles, as
also the bare skin in front of the eye, was a beautiful rosy red. The
culmen was black, and the rest of the bill a light orange-yellow. I
was glad the double mounting on the tripod was working satis-
factorily, thus enabling me to obtain a series of coloured pictures,
ouRN. BomsBay Nat. Hist. Soc. PLATE III
CHESTNUT BITTERN, (MALE)
Male and eggs.
(Photos: W. T. Loke)
PLATE [V
4
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Journ. Bompay Nar. Hist. Soc
)
MALE
T BitTERN
STNL
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TWO BITTERNS IN A PENANG MARSH 5
in addition to the black-and-white. The bird showed little sign of
fear, and I was able to take a large number of pictures. Instead of
the harsh sunshine of the previous day, light clouds on this occasion
obscured the sun sufficiently to give me a lovely soft illumination.
Later in the morning, heavier clouds spread over the sky, until, at
noon, rain began to fall. I stayed long enough to obtain pictures
of the rain drops lying like globules of quicksilver on the back of
the bird, and then it was time to gather together. my equipment,
and make a dash for it before the full fury of the storm broke.
When I went to Penang, quite apart from playing truant from
my office, I was also playing truant from my job as a committee
member of the Singapore Turf Club, and by missing the Gold Cup
race had, as it were, traded 16 horses for 2 Chestnut Bitterns, so,
good readers, I must leave you to judge—do you not think that, by
getting the bird, I had also got the best of the bargain?
A NOTE ON APANTELES FLAVIPES CAM., A- BRACONID
PARASITE OF THE CHOLAM STEM BORER,
CHILO ZONELLUS SWINH.
~
BY
K. C. CHANDY, M.A., ASSOC. I.A.R.L,
Agricultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore
(With one text figure)
INTRODUCTION
Chilo zonellus Swinh. is a serious stem borer of Cholam (Andropogon
sorghum,) and occasionally of maize in South India. It is fatal to the plant
in the early stages of the crop, but only retards its growth in oldér stages,
When the old plants are attacked at the base they are also liable to be
adversely affected by wind which breaks the stem at the point weakened
by the tunnel bored inside. ‘The incidence of the borer in the sorghum
fields of the Government Central Farm, Coimbatore, is on an average 45-
60% of the plants. Chemical control of the stem borer is difficult, and
very little work has been carried out so far to find suitable parasites for
controlling the pest. The present investigations have been conducted to
study the incidence and the breeding habits of its predominant parasite
and to examine the scope for its utilisation.
MATERIAL AND METHODS
The sorghum borers were collected from the infested plants grown in
the Central Farm area of the Agricultural Research Institute, Coimbatore,
for about two years, and regular observations were made on the incidence
of the parasite on the borers. All the borers and parasite cocoons
collected from the infested sorghum stems were kept in suitable jars for
the emergence of the parasites. Apanteles flavipes Cam. was noted to be
the most predominant parasite. Other parasites such as Svtenobracon sp.,
a Muicrobracon sp. and a Bethylid were also noted though in negligibie
numbers. It was found that 5-35% of the borers collected were para-
sitized by A. flavipes. The maximum percentage of parasitization by
Apanteles was noted towards the last week of June and the beginning of
July in the 1948 crop, and towards the beginning of March in the
1949 crop.
Most of the earlier workers have noted this parasite on sugar cane
borers. H. 8. Pruthi (1934) and Subramanyam, T. V.(1939) have noted
the parasite on Argyria sticticrasbis H. and Diatraea venosata Wk.
Moutia (1936) and Jepson, W. F. (1938 and 1939) have noted it on
Diatraca venosata and D. mauriciella Wk. respectively. Cheriyan, M. C.
and Subramanyam, C. K. (1942) have recorded the parasite on D. venosata
and Narayanan, E. S. (1936) has recorded it on A. sticticraspis, D. venosata
and Chilo zonellus at Pusa.
NATURE AND ACTIVITIES OF THE PARASITE
The adult is a small black insect about 2-2°5 mm. in length. This
species is described by D. 8S. Wilkinson (1928-29) in the reference cited.
‘The males can be identified from females easily by the longer antennae.
A NOTE ON APANTELES FLAVIPES CAM. ¥/
The adults get attracted to the infested sorghum stalks and enter the
lumen made by the borer to get at the host. For observing the actual
process of oviposition, a sorghum stem with a borer partly exposed outside
was keptina glassjar. A few adult parasites were introduced into the
jar which was covered up with a muslincloth. The female oviposited by
alighting on the body of the borer and finishing the operation within one
or two seconds with a thrust of the ovipositor into the body. ‘The host
seemed to be irritated during the process of oviposition and was trying to
get away from the parasite by boring further into the sorghum stem. All
the female parasites made an attempt to oviposit on the only host
available. So itis probable that in nature too a single host may serve as
host for egg laying to a number of parasites. From external characteristics
it was not possible to identify parasitized caterpillars. But it was observed
that the parasitized borers feed more voraciously than the healthy ones.
The eggs were noted by dissecting out a caterpillar immediately after
the parasites had oviposited. The egg (Fig. a) is ovoid with one end
ad b
a ee BNL
ee . s C
>,
CReR See hee wxthoret’ era © .
* TOR Ra tery Re,
a 14a nen wf ASS
‘
. TEx? FIGURE
Life History Stages of Apanteles flavipes Cam.
a. Eggs (x 56) zs
b. Larva (x 10)
ce. A cocoon (x 9)
d. A cocoon mass (x 2)
e. Adult (x 25)
8 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
tapering to a point and the broader end with a lid-like covering. It is
almost transparent. The larva is pale white with a more or less transparent
body. A fairly grown up larva is 2°25 mm. long and 0°5 mm. broad at
the caudal vesicle which is the broadest region. ‘The caudal vesicle is a
characteristic appendage of Braconid larvae, and it serves as a respiratory
organ. When fully grown, the larvae come out of the body of the host
and pupate in a cluster of cocoons and are usually found inside the lumen
of the stem bored by the host.
After the emergence of the parasite larvae prior to pupation from the
host-body, the host survives for some time but is very sluggish and it also
has brown spots all over the body. The host does not feed after this
and dies a lingering death within about five days. A parasitized host
never pupates.
TABLE I.
*Broop Stupy oF Apanteles flavipes CAM.
Total No. of
er
|
15-6-48 Ist brood 24 | 21 3 88%
1-7-48 2nd brood 43 | 36 7 84 %
20-7-48 | 3rd brood 36 | 31 5 73%
8-4-49 4th brood 18 16 2 89%
29-4-49 5th brood 37 36 1 97 %
20-5-49 | 6th brood 40 | 34 6 85%
The pupal period is 3-5 days. Each brood of parasitic larvae emerg-
ing from the body ofa single host and pupating, consists of from 20 to
45 cocoons. The majority of these give emergence to adults excepting
for a few spoilt cocoons. About 75—97% of the total adults emerged
are females (Table 1). In the laboratory, aduits fed on sugar solution
lived from 3-7 days.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION
Apanteles flavifes Cam. is the most predominant parasite of Chilo
zonellus at Coimbatore, though the present incidence of the parasite in
nature is not sufficient to control the sorghum stem borer early enough
to avoid its damage to the crop. The higher percentage of females in
the progeny should serve as a valuable factor for the parasite to increase
the chances of its survival by at least some of the females finding a suitable
host to parasitize within the limited period of their longevity. A suitable
method of propagating the parasite on a large scale in the laboratory on
some easily procurable host has to be found out first. Utilising the
nr - a —————— ee
* A group of parasites emerging from a single host is reckoned as a brood,
A NOTE ON APANTELES FLAVIPES CAM. 9
parasites by liberating them in the sorghum fields during the early stages of
the pest incidence might serve to control the pest toa great extent. Preli-
minary experiments made by the author to breed the parasite on Corcyra
cephalonica Staint, and Spodopiera mauritia B. were not successful.
SUMMARY
Investigation regarding the incidence of parasites on Chilo zonellus,
the sorghum borer, revealed that Afanteles flavipes was the most predo-
minant one in nature. The life history and habits of the parasite have
been studied under laboratory conditions. Preliminary experiments for
the mass propagation of the parasite on two easily procurable hosts were
not successful.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
I would like to express my gratitude to Sri K. P. Anantanarayanan,
Government Entomologist, Coimbatore, for going through the manuscript
and giving valuable suggestions. Jam also grateful to Sri M. C. Cheriyan,
ex-Entomologist and Sri E. R. Gopala Menon, Lecturer in Entomology,
Coimbatore, for the encouragement and suggestions given.
REFERENCES
1. Cherian, M. C. and Subramanyam, C. K. (1942): Studies on Diéatraea
venosata Wik. A pyralid pest of sugarcane in South India. Madras Agricultural
Journal 30, No. 2. 1942.
2. Jepson, W. F. (1938): Entomology Section Report. Rep. Dep. Agric.
Mautitius.
3. Moutia, A. (1936): Entomology Section Report.~ Rep. Dep. Agric.
Mauritius 1936.
4, Narayanan, E. S. (1936): Importance of the study of Hymenopterous para-
sites in India with notes on the bionomics of some of the important parasites found
in Pusa. Proc. Ind. Sc. Cong. 1936.
5. Pruthi, H. S. (1936-1937) : Report of the Imperial Entomologist Sci.’ Repor.
Inst. Agri. Res. Pusa. 1934 and ’35 and 1935 and ’36. > iret
6. Subramanyam, T. V. (1939) : Sugarcane borers and their control in Mysore
State. Jour. Mys. Agric. Exptl. Union 1939, ee ;
7. Wilkinson, D.S, (1928-1929) : A revision of the Indo-Australian species of
the genus Apanteles (Hym. Bracon) Part! Bull. Ent. Res. 19: 79-105.
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA,
BOMBAY STATE, IN MAY 1954
BY
H, SANTAPAU, S.J., F.N.I.
Chief Botanist,
Botanical Survey of India
[NERO D Ue TD LON
In May 1954 the writer and a party of friends spent some three
weeks touring in North Kanara; these pages consist mainly of the diary
of this excursion. The party consisted of Dr. F. A. Kincl representing
Syntex S. A. of Mexico; Dr. R. P. Patil, the Forest Botanist, Bombay
State; Mr. Wagh, the assistant of Dr. Kincl; Mr. R. Asrana, an M.Sc.
student, Bhavan College, Andheri, Bombay; and the writer with two
servants. :
The aim of the outing was mainly to study and collect medicinal
plants from North Kanara; but in addition we were out to study the
Evergreen Moist Forest, the only real portion of virgin forest left in
Bombay State. We made a very extensive collection of plants, which has
not yet been worked out, and took ample notes and photos; on such
notes and photos this paper is. based. I shall give my impressions in the
shape of a diary, since this is the way I entered my notes in my private
book.
15 May, 1954, Saturday.
Left Bombay yesterday evening by the Deccan Queen; at Poona
shifted to the metre gauge for Hubli. Fortunately we had made our
reservations and the journey was as comfortable as one can expect in a
very shaky toy train. Reached Hubli at about noon of today and went
out trying to get some lunch in town. ‘The place does not seem to cater
for visitors, for in the whole town there is but one passably good
restaurant.
Hubli bus station was very hot, incredibly crowded and very dusty.
The waiting room of the station consists of a small open shed with a few
benches, perhaps enough to seat about twelve persons; the rest of the
waiting passengers had to sit on the ground or fend for themselves, there
were well over ahundred people awaiting the various buses that start from
Hubli. My party spent three hours waiting in the station, and causing
much admiration particularly on account of the shiny aluminium vascula,
or boxes for the collection of plants. At 4 p.m. we set out for Sirsi by
bus; we were tightly packed in the bus, but by evening the temperature
had cooled down considerably. ‘The engine of the bus gave us much
trouble all the way to Sirsi, and had to stop in various places to repair
some of the minor ailments of the machine. Reached Sirsi at 9-15 p.m.,
very tired, dusty and rather hungry. At 7 p.m. on the way we had the
first downpour of the monsoon, a very violent storm that lasted for nearly
one hour.
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 13
16 May, 1954, Sunday.
Last night was peaceful in spite of large numbers of very hungry
mosquitoes ; we were too tired to notice such a small thing as the mos-
quitoes.
In the early morning went out near the forest bungalow and had the
first glimpse of the forest in North Kanara. A large tree near the bun-
galow had all its branches covered with an interesting species of Drynaria,
a climbing fern with mighty rope-like stems; the abundance of mosses
showed that we were in a tropical moist forest. We collected two inter-
esting orchids in flower, and two species of Loranthus that were being
seen by me for the first time. Yesterday along the road in the twilight
we saw a number of plants of Mussaenda frondosa in flower, with their
ghostly white calyx segments ; this morning noticed another large shrub
of the same plant with much larger white calyx than what one sees
nearer Bombay. The ground under the forest trees was covered with
masses of Elephantopus and Mimosa pudica, the latter in plenty of
flowers.
For the first time we were struck with the large number of epiphytes
in this type of forest. Meptapleurum venulosum is very abundant near
the bungalow, in bud and flower or fruit; very large masses cover more
than half of a large Ficus near the road that leads to the bungalow: the
plant is remarkably similar to the European Ivy in its flowers and fruits.
Inthe open ground in the middle of the compound noticed a small
species of Curcuma, with just one flower per plant; the corolla is pure
white with a broad yellow stripe in the middle of the lip. Saztalum
album isin full bloom near the house; they are small trees about 25-30 ft.
high, the petals of the flowers being of a dark purple brown, very similar
in colour to /phigenta tndica seen in more northern parts.
At noon the public bus company called at our place to pick us up
and take us to Jog ; I was informed that such a company is one of the
few still in private hands, and in consequence they could oblige us by
picking us up from our house, a thing the State Transport would not be
allowed to do.
The way from Sirsi to Siddapur and Jog is very impressive ; majestic
trees on either side of the road forming dense forests, though there
are already many patches from which the forest has been locally
removed. AHopea is a glorious sight, very large trees with crimson red
fruits, and masses of them; the little Curcuma seen at Sirsi is very com-
mon and in places very abundant along the road, generally in the under-
growth; the flowers vary from pure white to fleshy pink, and their
number from one to about seven per plant, no leaves seen.
Just after milestone No. 11 from Sirsi, we came upon a plantation
of Areca catechu; the trees composing the plantation are very tal! and
slender, placed rather closely, with occasionally bananas, Pzfer éetle etc.,
cultivated in the ground below Areca. On the trees we noticed a number
of epiphytes and not a few parasites. The stems of Areca trees are
whitish, and the sight of the plantation is very impressive.
The road is good all along except for about a quarter of a mile neat
the areca plantations ; at that spot it was very bad. After a short stop at
Siddapur for tea and provisions, we went upto Jog, where we reached
at about 5 p.m. From the moment of landing from the bus one is nearly
deafened by the noise of the falls. The bungalow, belonging to the
P,W.D., Bombay State, is on a hill overlooking the falls; just across the
12 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the deep chasm of the falis is Mysore State bungalow, and about half a
mile lower down along the stream is the Mysore Hydro-electric Power
Station. As wesat on our vantage point near the Falls, the view was almost
overpowering ; the drop is 597 ft. high; occasionally clouds of mist are
wafted up by the streams of air that come canalised by the river; the
falls are facing due west.
The river is the Swarua Nadi. Geologically the bed of the river
consists of a large number of strata all inclined about 45 degrees from the
horizontal ; the stream of the river is divided into several smaller streams
by the slanting strata, and thus in place of one might fall along the main
course of the river, we get four very beautiful ones, even though smaller.
The formation and appearance of the various falls are clearly dependent
on the strata of the river bed. The biggest fall, Rajah, is not visible
from the Bombay bungalow, and is made by the main stream of the river;
the next fall, Roarer, comes down more or less hidden away by the con-
figuration of the hill for about half its length, then it just jumps into the
same basin as Rajah. The third fall, Aavz, is so called because it is sup-
posed to look like the tresses of a woman spread over the shoulders.
The fourth and furthest from Bombay bungalow is the Rocket, the most
impressive of the lot from the Bombay side. One of the interesting shows
near the falls, looking at them from the edge of the Bombay side in front
of the bungalow, is that a number of rainbows fringe the base of the falls,
at times I counted three such rainbows.
At night the Mysore side is lit with electric lights, from the hydro-
electric power house near the bungalow; during the night two powerful
spotlights are focussed on the falls from about half way down the slope;
these lights bring out the beauty of the falls in a striking manner parti-
cularly in moonless nights.
Went to bed at night with the roar of the falls still filling our ears;
during the night on waking up, the same roar is the first thing to impress
itself on one’s consciousness. Gradually the noise becomes so powerful
that it gets on one’s nerves, and excursions away from the falls give a
welcome silence and rest.
In the evening some of our party amused ourselves reading through
the Visitors’ Books in the Bombay bungalow. One of the recent entries
is by Joaquim Alva of Bombay, who remarked that the Bombay Govern-
ment seems to have made it almost impossible for visitors to come to Jog,
to judge from the poor transport facilities and the sort of accommodation:
provided for them in the State bungalow. Older visitors left more
interesting remarks, particularly on subjects such as animal life in the
neighbourhood of the falls. It may be of interest to the readers to: copy
a tew of the more striking remarks.
Vol. 2, 1878, gage 21: I met a planter who had been shikarring and
had met antelope, bustard, florican, rock grouse etc.
Vol. 2, 1882, age 70: Within the last 15 days about 20 head-loads
of fish were taken out of the river a little below the falls by poisoning
the water.
Page 78: The pools are teeming with fish . . . Let some one bring
a collapsible boat or a wicker coracle and fish in the centre of the big
pool. He will, I feel sure, catch monsters: a young swallow will make
a good bait.
Page 93, 1885: A herd of 20 wild elephants crossed my path on my
road here about 30 miles east of this: 2 fine tuskers, 8 females and 10
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 13
young ones. Reported to have killed a man near Kumsi. Traffic along
the road was stopped.
Page 154, 1890: I spent two days at the bungalow with my family.
It seems unnecessary to add anything to the wealth of eloquence and
bathos, not to mention wit, so lavishly squandered in the foregoing pages
but it struck me that while the falls (and the patel) have had much attention,
the poor bungalow has missed its share. Yet it would repay some
small attention, and its occupants would be in a better frame of mind,
perhaps, for enjoying the falls. The bungalow has three fine rooms
and just the same number of chairs, but one of the latter (inscribed
with the name of ‘ Arry’ on both arms) is past use and another will
soon follow. ‘The three most important doors have not one bolt
between them in working order. ‘The wind rushes in at night with
equal fury through broken panes, misfitting doors and dilapidated roof
with its natural consequence of headaches and neuralgia. Finally why
should all manner of rubbish, wrecks of weather-fencing, straw, paper,
old shoes etc. be shovelled over the declivity in front of the bungalow ?
‘The view of the falls from the verandah is very fine and needs no such
contrast to set it off. (HE. H. Aitken, Asst. Collector of Salt Revenue,
4th January 1890).
Page 259, 1 Noy. 1901: I came here purposely for new specimens of
the butterflies and was very successful. Many species here are similar to
those found at Kandy, Ceylon. I caught 4 butterflies here that are not to
be found at any other place in India, to my knowledge. (A. Cranston).
17 May, 1954, Monday.
Very early in the morning was awakened by the Whistling School
Boy, which gave a long reveille near our house ; the bird could be heard
very distinctly above the noise of the falls. At 6 a.m. the whole river is
covered with mist, dense clouds of which come up every few moments
from the bottom of the falls. Our bungalow is due north of the falls,
the Mysore bungalow is sightly south-west ; the altitude of our rest house
by my barometric altimeter is 1,500 ft. above Bombay sea-level. At 7 a.m.
just before the sun came out, a large flight of white birds was seen
hovering about half way up the falls, many of the birds seem to make
their nests on the very steep crags that form the falls.
My own experience of the game of these parts seems to vary very
radically from.the experience of older visitors. So far in the journey
from Hubli to Sirsi and thence to Jog we have only seen a few doves,
several hares and a number of monkeys. ‘The Whistling School Boy
was heard singing for a long time near our rest house, but has not
been heard again.
first Botanical Outing in Jog. In order to get an idea of the consti-
tution of the Evergreen Forest near Jog, this morning my party went
along the main road; we tried but could not succeed in penetrating into
the forest proper. Climbers with enormous rope-like stems, and very
many spiny plants made the attempt at going through the forest out of
the beaten tracks a risky and painful process. Calamus pseudotenuts, of
very painful memories for me, is very abundant and its inflorescence
branches are stoutly armed with very nasty recurved thorns. ‘The little
Curcumu of yesterday was today dug up and showed that the root system
possesses fairly long fibrous adventitious roots with a fusiform tuber at the
end of each root ; from this character alone the plant seems to be something
14 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
new. Of the more impressive sights in the forest, one must mention
Lagerstroemia flos-reginae, gigantic trees covered with masses of large
showy flowers; the tree appears to be wild and indigenous in the district.
From the road side we turned to the river; its bed is nearly covered with
a species of Syzygium or Eugenia shrubs, up to 10 ft. high, in leaf at
present. The party moved along the river course until we came to the top
of the falls; from that point of vantage, Rajah is very impressive ; some
of our party said their heads were being affected by the sight and had to
move away from the brink of the precipice for safety.
Returned home at noon with our collecting boxes filled to overflow-
ing; the business of identification. etc., took us the rest of the day; the
job was only given up at 7 p.m. when darkness forced us to desist from
our work. This has been a very successful and interesting day.
18 May, 1954, Tuesday.
For the second time, this morning we were awakened by the Whist-
ling School Boy. In the course of these days at Jog, we were often un-
pleasantly disturbed by a noise as loud and as shrill as that of a knife
grinder ; at first | took the noise to be produced by some instrument in the
hydro-electric power house ; eventually it was found that the noise was
being produced by the many cicadas in the forest ; we found some of those
insects and experimented with the noise-making organs, and soon found
that the noise at close quarters was almost unbearable.
Second Lotanical Outing. We went today along the same road as
yesterday, but only started collecting plants and photos where we left
yesterday. Going along the road to the river ferry, we noticed several
species of Garcinia, G. morella, G. cambogia etc., Pristimera grahamit,
several Psychotrias in the undergrowth together with Ophiorhiza FPavetta
etc.; in a backwater of the river collected Lagenandra toxicaria, very
abundant in leaf all over the stream-bed but just out of water.
‘The river was crossed in a very unsteady canoe; as I was carrying
a number of scientific instruments with me, I did feel rather uncomfort-
able in the canoe; the river is said to be about 10 ft. deep at that spot
roughly one mile above the falls.
The Mysore side of the river shows even denser vegetation than on
the Bombay side; the forest is over 75 ft. tall; among the trees we
saw a number otf unknown species, which had not been seen on the
other side. The distance from the ferry to the Mysore bungalow is but
one and a hali miles, but in this short distance we made a wonderful
collection. ‘Lhe sight of the falls from the Mysore bungalow is simply
erand; the four talls are seen in their majestic beauty, there is no
obstruction of any sort. While the attendants were preparing some tea,
we had time to take some good photos of the sight.
On the return journey we collected seeds of Ventilago bombazensis
with the typical twisted wing, saw P7rzstimera grahami, and one large
climbing Stvychnos which could not be collected from the very high
tree on which the plant was mounted. Near the road met several
women who were coilecting the seeds of Garcinia moredla ; the rind of
the fruit is thrown away, the seeds are used for the extraction of a
valuable edible oil that is said to be much esteemed for cakes etc.
The Mysore bungalow is much better kept than the Bombay one;
there is a large park around the bungalow with plenty of room for guests,
etc. Electricity is found all over the Mysore side; and this is why
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 15
guests can have iced water there from the refrigerators in the bungalow.
In every respect the authorities of Mysore have tried to make the place
accessible and popular; during our short stay in the bungalow we saw
many more people than in several days inthe Bombay side.
19, May 1954, Wednesday,
From Jog we went along the road to Mavingundi, a village about
two miles away. On the way we saw for the first time Vtex altzsstma
in flower; some of the trees were loaded with epiphytic orchids in flower
and fruit; some ofthese plants were pressed and some packed in moss
for replanting in Bombay. Incidentally such plants were planted in
Bombay on our return, but rats and mice seemed to have eaten the lot
and spoiled a fine set of specimens. Rice is intensively cultivated in the
district, and we were informed that usually two crops are obtained every
year. Areca catechu is also much cultivated near Mavingundi.
One of the plants we found today was Parsonsia spiralis, a plant
that later on we tried to collect again for medicinal study; one of our
party went in the afternoon to collect materials for study, but returned
empty-handed. On being asked why he did not bring the plant, he
explained that some ten large monkeys had stood on the road in a very
threatening attitude and would not budge - from whatever side of the
road he tried to pass them ; he did not insist, but thought it more prudent
to come back to the safety of the house.
The constitution of the forest at Jog. Summarising all my obser-
vations on the constitution of the forest near Jog, I put down the follow-
ing notes. The forest in the immediate neighbourhood of Jog is ever-
green and very dense; the height goes up to 100 ft., the upper layer
seldom going below 75 ft. There are clearly several levels or layers, all
connected with numerous climbers. These are the constituents of the
various layers : |
a. Top layer:
Flopea wightiana Wall.
Syzygium cumini (Linn.) Skeels.
(Augenia jambolana Lamk.)
Pouteria tomentosa (Roxb.) Baehni.
(Szderoxylon tomentosum Roxb.)
Floligarna arnottiana Hook. f.
Knema attenuata Warb.
(Myristica attenuata Wall.)
Artocarpus inctsa Linn. f.
Lepisanthes tetraphylla (Vahl) Radlk.
(Hemigyrosa canescens Blume.)
Garcinia morella Dest.
Pithecellobium bigeminum Mart.
Garcinia cambogia Dest.
Celtis cinnamomea Lindl.
Litsea stocksit Hook. f,
Lophopetalum wightianum Arn,
Lrvatamia heyneana Cooke.
(Labernaemontana heyneana Wall.)
Artocarpus hirsuta Lamk.
Lagerstroemia speciosa (Linn.) Pers,
(Lagerstvoemia tlos-reginae Retz.)
16
Cc.
¥
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Macaranga peliata Muell.
(Macaranga tomentosa Wight.)
Cinnamomum zeylanicum Blume.
Caryota uvens Linn.
Stereospermum personatum (Hassk.) Chatt.
(Stereospermum chelonoides auct., non DC.)
Aporosa lindleyana Baill.
Vitex altissima Linn. f.-
Terminalia bellivica Roxb.
Dysoxylum binectariferum Hook. f.
Dillenia pentagyna Roxb.
Second layer, 10-25 ft.
Allophyllus serratus (Roxb.) Radlk.
(Allophyllus cobbe Hiern.)
Callicarpa lanata Linn.
Trema orientalis Blume.
Emblica officinalis Gaernt.
(Lhyllanthus emblica Linn.)
Leea indica (Burm.) Merr.
(Leea sambucina Willd.)
Mussaenda trondosa Linn.
Aporosa lindleyana Baill.
Third layer 3-6 it.
Ardisia solanacea Roxb.
Melanthesa turbinata (Koen.) Wight.
(Breynia patens Rolfe).
Psychotria spec. several.
[xora coccinea Linn.
Pleomele terniflora (Roxb.) Merr.
(Dracaena ternitlora Roxb.)
Croton gibsonianus Nim.
Chasalta curvitlorva Thw.
Solanum spec.
Clerodendrum viscosum Vent.
(Clexedendrium tntfortunatum auct., non Linn.)
Maesa trdica Wall.
Climbers, woody or herbaceous.
Tylophora indica (Burm.) Merr.
(Tylophora asthmatica W. & A.)
Ventilago bombaiensis Dalz.
Toddalia aculeata Pers.
Calamus pseudotenuts Becc.
Jasminum rotlerianum Wall.
Elacagnus spec.
Cissus dtscolor Blume.
(Vitis discolor Dalz.)
Gnetum ua Brongn.
(Gnetum scandens auct., non Roxb.)
Smilax zeylanica Linn.
(Smilax macrophylla Roxb.
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA il¢/
Zizyphus rugosa Lamk.
Pothos scandens Linn.
Caesalpinia mimosoides Lamk.
Artabotrys zeylanicus Hook. f. & Thoms.
Hibiscus furcatus Willd.
Gouania microcarpa DC.
Rubia corditolia Linn.
Ancistrocladus heyneanus Wall.
Raphidophora spec.
Scheftlera venulosa Harms.
(Heptapleurum venulosum Seem.)
Premna coriacea Clarke,
Entada phaseoloides (Linn.) Merr.
(Entada scandens Benth.)
Cayratia auriculata (DC.) Gamble.
(Vitis auriculata Wall.)
and many others, though not so common.
The ground is covered with but a few herbs, particularly at the edges
of the forest; in dense forest the ground is particularly bare of any vege-
tation. The more common herbs seen at the edges of the forest are the
following :
Opbhiorhiza harristana Heyne.
Gynura angulosa DC.
Hedyotts spec.
Leucas aspera Spreng.
One of the more typical aspects of the forest is that no species may
be said to be dominant, perhaps about 15% is the highest percentage of
any species. Another feature is the great abundance of climbers, which
render the forest almost impenetrable. Thirdly the biotic factor, mainly
human, can be seen in many spots ; when the forest is cut down by man,
it is soon replaced by shrubs or small trees, among which a small species
of Phoenix is rather common. Finally at the time of our visit the number
of mosquitoes and leeches was negligible; within a fortnight of our visit
the forest is said to be impassable on account of these pests.
20 May, 1954, Thursday.
At 7.30 this morning the bus came to collect us and our luggage
from the P.W.D. bungalow, and shortly afterwards left the district. About
three miles from Jog we started the climb up the Gersoppa Ghat, a steep
but rather gradual climb. ‘There we noticed the devastation that is being
brought to the forest by the new electrification schemes; without regard
for the forest, an avenue is cut in the forest, 100 ft. on either side of the
electric pylons; mighty trees are left lying on the ground until the Forest
Department picks them up and puts them up for sale. Some such cuttings
we have seen passing through some of the finest spots in the forest, places
set aside by the Forest Department for the training of its officers, where
every tree has been carefully identified and labelled.
On the return journey to Sirsi, I could notice the condition of the
forest, which in many spots has been reduced to scrub forest; after the
real forest has been cut down, it is replaced by useless and small shrubs
or trees, among which the small Phoenix, Zizyphus spec. etc. are rather
prominent. This is the case particularly in the neighbourhood of villages.
2
is JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Where the forest has not been disturbed, it reaches a height of 100 ft.,
with splendid trees of the evergreen type. On the return journey our
bus had to stop near the plantations of Aveca catechu and this gave me a
chance to obtain some good photos.
In the middle of the village of Sirsi there is a very large tree
(unidentified), one of the mighty giants of the forest, though it is standing
alone. The lower part of the trunk is covered with Pothos scandens, the
upper branches with Drynaria; about 30 ft. from the ground, where the
trunk branches, there is a huge cinema poster at the fork, a very in-
congruous sight on such a beautiful tree.
During our bus journey this morning we had a commotion as some
ladies would not come into the bus, and claimed that the men who occupi-
ed some front seats had to vacate them; the reason was that such seats
were apparently reserved for the ladies, the seats being marked with a
large notice that said ‘ ONLY LEDEIS’.
21 May, 1954, Friday. |
During the past night there has been a strong storm, with plenty of
noise and fireworks; at some time in the night there came a downpour
of rain; this caused much commotion among the members of my party,
for we had to keep moving from corner to corner so as to escape the many
leakages from the roof. In the early hours of the morning it was still
raining quietly, but all rain stopped by 7.30 a.m.
Botanical Excursion to the Kalgar Khan. This is one of the best
evergreen patches near Sirsi; it is about three miles away from the town.
Today we have been lucky in having the help of some local people who
accompanied us and did the climbing and seemed to know the local names
of most of the plants.
Kalgar Khan gave me the impression that I had been transported to
Meroli near Khandala; the constitution of the forest and the general
appearance and even many of the constituent trees were the same in both
places. In the undergrowth we saw many seedlings of Cinnamomum
zeylanicum only 3-8 ft. tall; Stvychnos nux-vomica is abundant all over
the Khan in fruit; at the edges of the forest we saw a few plants of
Rauwoltia serbentina in flower and fruit; the local people told us that
some few years ago the whole place was covered with Razuwolfia, but
that of late there has been an intense collection, the plant being very highly
paid for. The ground inside the Khan is very wet, but there are no
leeches as yet. In the Khan we made a search for Antiarts toxicaria,
which is said to occur here, but in vain; we saw a gigantic tree, about the
largest and tallest in that part of the forest, but even with binoculars we
could not discover its identity; the trunk is unbranched and beautifully
straight for over 60 ft.; the local name is said to be Halmadz, which
later on I discovered to be Azlanthus malabarica.'
The constitution of the forest at the Kalgar Khan. There are clearly
three levels, the uppermost being about 100 ft. high; as in the evergreen
forest at Jog, so here too there was no ground cover, grasses being only
found in open spots and near the edges of the forest.
a. The top level or layer.
Mangitera indica Linn.
Beilschmiedia tagifolia var. dalzellid Meisn.
reer. |
1 The correct botanical name of this tree is A. trvzphysa (Dennst.) Alst.
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA
Flopea wightiana Wall.
Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.
Dillenia pentagyna Roxb.
Cletdion spicitlorum (Burm.) Mert.
(Cletdion javanicum Blume)
Knema attenuata Watb.
(Myristica attenuata Wall.)
Myrvistica beddomei King.
Zerminalia crenulata Roth.
Adina corditolia Hook.
Cinnanonum zeylanicum Blume.
b. The middle layer, 10-25 ft.
Diospyros microphylla Bedd.
Evyvatamia heyneana Cooke.
Mussaenda trondosa Linn.
Macaranga peltata Muell.
(Macaranga tomentosa Wt.)
Murraya koenigiz Spreng.
Vitex altisstma Linn, f.
Randia brandisit Gamble.
Allophyllus serratus Radlk.
(Allophylius cobbe Hiern.)
Emblica officinalis Gaernt.
(Phyllanthus emblica Linn.)
Flacourtia montana Grah.
[xora brachiata Roxb.
‘ Strobilanthes’’ spec. and many others.
c. Lower level, ground to 3 ft.
Ophiorhiza harrisiana Heyne.
Murraya koenigit Spreng.
Chasalia curvitlora Thw. -
Pleomele ternitlora (Roxb.) Merr.
(Dracaena ternitlora Roxb.)
Psychotria, 2-3 species.
d. Climbers.
Gnetum ula Brongn.
(Gnetum scandens auct., non Roxb.)
Olax spec.
Pothos scandens Linn.
| Luvunga eleutherandra Dalz.
| Hoya spec.
Hemidesmus indicus R. Br.
Smilax zeylanica Linn.
(Smilax macrophylla Roxb.)
Ancistrocladus heyneanus Wall.
Calycopterts tlortbunda Lamk.
Piper spec.
19
The three miles return journey was found rather hot and tiring
by most of us. Along the main road there is a small herb in fower and
20 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
fruit, some novelty, that proved to be WVelsonia campestris ; on the hedges
near the road there is plenty of Santalum album in flower, none of the
plants showing any virus infection so far.
In the evening as we were busy with the morning’s collection we were
startled by a pitched battle between two camps of monkeys fighting
ferociously not far from our house ; a well-placed stone put a stop to the
proceedings. All through our tour of North Kanara we have been much
struck by the numbers and sizes of the monkeys ; some of the Forest Rest
Houses have been much damaged by the heavy animals jumping on to the
roof of the house and breaking numbers of tiles; this was the reason for
the leakages in our roof during the past night.
Today several of us have been affected by a nasty irruption in the skin
particularly on our faces and hands; there is a continuous itch, which
causes us to keep scratching day and night; this type of itch started at
Jog, and has kept growing worse all these days; perhaps it is due to the
water we have been drinking.
Frogs are singing merrily in our garden in the evening, not a melod-
ious song, but certainly not an unpleasant one, nothing to compare with
the Cicadas of Jog ; the latter, by the way, have only been heard once since
we left Jog.
May 22, 1954, Saturday.
Our outing today was to the Hulimane Khan, a small bit of ever-
ereen forest near Oormunde village. The way is all deciduous forest, in
parts rather dense, but often very bare, the results of man’s interference.
Many of the trees showed large masses of orchids, some of them in
flower. White ants nests or mounds are rather conspicuous in the decidu-
ous forests; they may be up to 6 ft. tall, and common. Yet the damage
of the white ants in the forest seems to be negligible.
On our way to Hulimane Khan our forest guard disappeared for some
moments and soon came back with a large bunch of bananas, which we
all savoured greatly. Personally I found them about the tastiest bananas
I have had. Iwas informed that the district is famous for the quality of
its bananas and mangoes.
Hulimane Khan is a poor type of evergreen forest, much interfered
with by cultivators. The undergrowth is almost nil, with about Caesa/-
pinta mimusoides and Clerodendrum viscosum seedlings as the only shrubby
plants. In the forest there are several wild mango trees, the fruit of
which proved to be remarkably sweet, though rather fibrous. One of
the finds of the day was a large tree of Mydnocarpus laurtfolia (Denn.)
Sleumer (=H. wightiana Blume) at the edge of the evergreen near a
nulla; the tree was overloaded with fruits, many of which were collected
and taken home for medicinal tests.
On our way home on the return journey, we stopped for a cup of tea
at a house owned by a Havick Brahmin; he was very kind and nice and
offered us some bananas and tea. Our forest guard openly wiped all the
tea cups before pouring any tea into them, our host smiling all the while.
The belief is that such hosts are very hospitable, but gradually try to poison
their guests. The house is low-roofed, thick walled, and very cool inside;
its inner walls are decorated with stucco paintings; in the centre of the
main room there is a well, where rain water is collected jor drinking
purposes during the monsoon.
In the evening at about 4 p.m. the sky became black almost sudden-
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 21
ly, and we soon had a very violent storm, with plenty of lightning and
rain; the temperature came down very considerably after the rain. In
open forest today we have seen plenty of Strychnos nux-vomica, large
trees over 75 ft., with orange fruits about 3-5 inches in diameter; at present
no economic use is made of the fruits, except that this is said to be the
material used by Havick Brahmins for treating their guests.
May,23, 1954, Sunday.
It has not been raining during the night, yet the moisture of the
atmosphere is such that everything outside the house is dripping with
moisture. In the early morning went to examine Chipgi forest, an
interesting patch near Sirsi, but not as good as Kalgar Khan. In this
forest we noticed the usual top layer of trees, but there seemed to be no
middle layer; the constitution of the forest is as follows:
a. Top layer:
Terminalia crenulata Roth.
Beilschmiedia tagitolia var. dalzellit Miesn.
Garcinia malabarica 'Talb.
Mangitera indica Linn.
Aylia xylocarpa Roxb.
Stereospermum personatum Chatt.
(Stereospermum chelonoides auct. non D.C.)
Litsea spec,
Lagerstroemia lanceolata Wall.
Dillenia pentagyna Roxb.
Terminalia chebula Retz.
Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.
b. Ground layer:
Randia brandisit Gamble.
Garcinia malabarica Talb.
Murraya koenigiz Spreng.
Pavetta spec.
Lantana camara vat. aculeata Mold. ete.
Climbers :
Gnetum ula Brongn.
Premna cortacea Clarke.
Toddalia aculeata Pers.
Smilax zeylanica Linn. etc.
oO
Near the edge of the forest there was a large plantation of Aveca catechu,
even more striking than any seen so far. The men collecting the nuts
are said to climb one tree at the end of a row of areca trees ; after collect-
ing all the nuts from the tree they shake the tree until they come near the next
one in the row, then they pass on to the next tree without having to climb
down, which would be a very tiring process, on account of the height of
the trees. ‘This system of harvesting the nuts explains the presence of
numerous epiphytic orchids on the trunks of such trees, which would
definitely obstruct the climbers in their efforts,
22 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
24 May, 1954, Monday.
Another violent storm of rain and lightning in the early morning, anid
more gymnastics to avoid the rain falling on our beds during the last
part of the night. Packed and moved to the bus station on our way to
Yellapur. x
The Sirsi bus station deserves mention. Sirsi is the centre from
which buses go in all directions ; the bus station has a time-table posted
up, and buses are sent out by the ringing of a large bell, everything very
well organised. Whilst waiting for our bus, which was over two hours
late, we were invaded by a host of beggars, who proved to be very
persistent.
The journey from Sirsito Yellapur is most interesting botanically ; the
road goes through some evergreen forests for the greater part of the way;
the road is lined with gigantic trees, many of which are covered with
climbers. ‘The last three or four miles before Yellapur are particularly.
interesting botanically, on account of the very dense forest on either side
of the road. ‘Today we noticed a large fox standing in the middle of the
road at the approach of our bus, and only moved away when we were but
about twenty yards from the spot; the fox then moved into the forest
and watched our bus as it passed but ten yeards away. A little later
along the side of the road I noticed a large brownish snake, probably a
Dhaman, gliding leisurely into the forest. These two animals are about
the limit of our zoological observations in the district ; we looked for
animals, but found very few indeed.
The arrival of our large party at the velanee bus station caused a
commotion; we were received by the forest guard in full uniform, who
was at once nicknamed ‘ Major-General’ Adam Sheik Mahmud ; the forest
bungalow is just in front of the bus station. ‘Through the kind offices of
Mr. Bhathena, the Forest Utilisation Officer, and of Dr. Patil the Forest
Botanist, we found that everything had been got ready for us in the bunga-
low; the Asst. Divisional Forest Officer, Mr. P. K. Vasuvada, made our
stay in Yellapur most comfortable and pleasant, as well as profitable.
The Yellapur Forest Bungalow is one of the finest so far encountered in
this trip; the building is solid and very clean; outside there is a fine
garden with nice clean lawns and plenty of flowers. Monkeys seem to
like this bungalow in a particular manner; as we sat in the verandah
discussing plans, a large host of monkeys amused themselves playing
and fighting on the iawns of the house.
Our first outing of Yellapur was late in the evening, when Mr.
Vasuvada took us to some dense forest but halfa mile away from the
village. Among other interesting items, today we collected Rhynchostylis
retusa in full bloom, Hoya retusa, ete.
25 May, 1954, Tuesday.
The night has been quiet and restful except for the armies of very
hungry mosquitoes that seemed to have been waiting for our arrival to
have a proper meal.
At 7.30 a.m. we were taken by lorry to the Linear Tyree Increment
Plot (LTI in short), the Telgiri Khan. Along the road the forest is
impressive, large and massive trees line the road, and as we get nearer
to the LTI the forest becomes denser.
The LTI plot is a narrow band of forest in the middle of the ever-
green, about 50 yards broad, and nearly half a mile long; the
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 23
undergrowth has been cleared to some extent, and all the trees and large
shurbs have been identified and labelled. The identification of such trees
has been a laborious task that has taken years to accomplish; the trees
are over 75 ft. tall, their upper branches all interlinked together. All the
trees in the LTI plot are indigenous, that is to say, no tree has been
especially planted by the Forest Department. The aim of such plots is
to give Forest Officers the chance of learning the various constitutents of
their forests in a small compressed space. We spent over three hours
moving in the evergreen forest, and noting the trees as well as the under-
growth. The following is the result of our examination :
a. Top level, trees 75 ft. and over in height.
Tetrameles nudtflora R. Br.
Polyalthia cerasoides Benth. & Hook. f.
Cinnanomum zeylanicum Blume.
Macaranga peltata Muell.
Terminalia crenulata Roth.
Terminalia bellirvica Roxb.
Caryota urens Linn.
Pterygota alata (Roxb.) R. Br.
(Sterculia alatz Roxb.)
Dysoxylum malabaricum Bedd.
Knema attenuata Warb.
Myristica spec. (beddomez ?)
Aporosa lindleyana Baill.
Terminalia arjuna W. & A.
Diospyros microphylla Bedd. ete.
b. Middle layer:
Leea indica (Burm.) Merr.
Ardisia solanacea Roxb.
Aliophyllus serratus Radlk.
Murraya koenigit Spreng.
Emblica officinalis Gaernt.
Cordia macleodiz Hook. f.
Randia brandisii Gamble.
c. Ground level, 4-36 inches.
Chasalia curvttlora Thw.
Rauwolfia serpentina Benth.
Nervilia intundibulifolia Bl. & McC.
Curculigo orchiotdes Gaernt.
Elephantopus scaber Linn.
Psychotria spec.
d. Climbers: the usual ones in these parts, particularly great
masses of Guetum ula Brongn.
This Khan is a mixture of evergreen and deciduous trees, the former
predominating, though no species can be said to be dominant.
In the course of the evening while writing up my diary, my attention
was called to some very loud barking of dogs and ‘ swearing’ of monkeys;
several monkeys had been treed on an isolated tree, and the dogs were
mounting guard at the foot of the tree; every now and then, when a
monkey tried to come down, the dogs barked furiously. For as long as
24 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the watch of the dogs lasted, they had the best in the fight; however,
the dogs’ attention was distracted for just a few moments, and then all the
monkeys came down and ran into one of the trees at the edge of the
forest ; it was noticed that mother monkeys with their babies hanging
from their chests were the loudest in ‘ swearing ’ at the dogs.
We have been looking for some specially good trees and in vain; we
have searched for Azlanthus malabarica, Antiaris toxicaria, etc., but
without success, we had not recognised the Hlalwadi tree as Adlanthus.
Today one of our party went to Karwar in search of Samdadera, which is
said to be common in those parts; three days spent in the search,
with the help of some of the local Vaidyas, did not succeed in finding
LHe mthees
26 May, 1954, Wednesday.
In the early morning went to Sahasrahalli Khan, not more than a
mile from our residence. Along the main road we found numerous speci- —
mens of Rauwolfia densilfora, shrubs 6-10 ft. high, with plenty of flowers
or fruits. 2. serpentina was seen only on sloping ground near the Khan,
in ground from which the forest had been cut a few years ago.
The forest at Sahasrahalli Khan is imposing; most of the trees are
straight, unbranched for over 50 ft., and then going up to 100 ft. or more.
There are mighty climbers going over such trees, among which Gretum
ula is probably the mightiest.
The constitution of the forest is approximately as follows;
a. ‘Top layer, up to 100 ft. or more.
Mallotus albus Mueli.-Are.
Lophopetalum wightianum Arn.
Lagerstroemia lanceolata Wail.
Lrvatamia heyneana Cooke.
Syzygium cumini (Linn.) Skeels.
floligarna arnottiana Hook. f.
Vitex altissima Linn. f.
Knema attenuata Watb.
Diospyros montana Roxb.?
Artocarpus hirsuta Lamk.
Garcinia xanthochymus Hook. f.
Careya arborea Roxb.
Strychnos nux-vomica Linn.
Terminalia chebula Retz.
Terminalia crenulata Roth.
XAXylia xylocarpa Roxb.
Machilus macrantha Nees,
Chukrassia tabularts Juss. var.?
Betlschmiedia tagtfolia var. dalzellii Meisn. etc.
b. Middle layer:
Solanum giganteum Jacq.
Allophyllus serratus Radlk.
Ardista solanacea Roxb.
Mussaenda trondosa Linn,
Pajanelia multijuga DC,
Leea indica Merr.
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 25
Murraya koenigiz Spreng.
Strychnos nux-vonica Linn. seedlings.
ec. Ground vegetation, less than 3 ft. tall.
Curcuma spec.
Centella asiatica Urb.
Cissus discolor Blume.
Nervilia- intundtbultformis Bl. & McC.
Murdannia scapitlorum Royle.
Hypoxts aurea Lout.
Ophiorhiza harristana Heyne.
d. Climbers the usual ones, with plenty of Radermachera spec.
27 May, 1954, Thursday.
Packing in early morning in readiness to move to Halyal according to
programme. The road to Halyal is fairly good, but the bus either had no
spring or was unduly overloaded, so that along the road we got every
jolt in our bones. Up to about half way to Halyal the forest is mixed
evergreen and deciduous, then the deciduous trees seem to become
dominant, until in the neighbourhood of Halyal it is clearly a deciduous
forest, whatever is left of it, which is not much. Near Halyal cultivation
is intense. Along the road sides on various trees I noticed the largest
masses of Acampe premorsa that I have seen in Western India.
The forest bungalow at Halyal is situated inside the Fort, a large
structure built of loose stones without cement; in several spots the walls
are crumbling down, and in this they are substantially helped by several
Ficus that send their roots into the cracks in the walls. Monkeys are also
in evidence here, for every now and then we heard ioud noises over our
heads, caused by monkeys disporting themselves on the roof of the
house.
In the afternoon went to see the Research Experimental Station of
the Forest Department; the various experiments being conducted in the
station are beautifully described in the report of the Silviculturist for 1951.
Many interesting trees from other parts of India or from abroad are under
trial, and some have given very good results. ARauwolfia serpentina was
under cultivation; vegetative reproduction gave good results, seeds did
not do well, as seldom more than 10% did germinate. Of the imported
trees that seemed to be doing best, Aucalyptus citriodora and Dua-
banga grandiflora Walp. seemed to be conspicuous; trees planted but
four or five years ago were already over 30 ft. high and going strong.
28 May, 1954, Friday.
In the morning went out to the village, to photograph several trees
loaded with Flying Foxes; two or three of the largest trees were just
black with these strange animals, who kept a loud and constant noise
going through the hours of daylight.
After lunch we packed ourselves into a taxi and moved to Dandeli;
the packing was tight, there were four of my party, the driver and two
assistant drivers. The taxi, an old crock, kept rattling as if it could not go
one yard further ; as the road in the main is downwards from Halyal to
Dandeli, our driver shut off the engine most of the time, and just kept
going by gravity. The forest along the road becomes soon very dense,
26 JOURNAL, BOMBAY. NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
even though the deciduous character is quite clear ; teak is abundant, and
where teak has been cut down and not replanted, bamboos cover much of
the ground. The journey by taxi took only 40 minutes. In Dandeli we
were accommodated in the ‘ Riverview’ forest bungalow, a palatial build-
ing with a grand stand view of the National Animal Sanctuary across the
Kali Nadi just in front of the bungalow.
29 May, 1954, Saturday.
In the morning we were told that there are crocodiles in the river,
which apparently no one has ever seen, at least I could not discover any
of the local inhabitants who had seen them; it is a fact, however, that
people do not go swimming in the river. In the night I heard some
violent splashes in the river, but in spite of a good moon could not see
anything in the river.
Riverside botanical outing. Our first outing at Dandeli has been
along the river banks and on rocks in the river bed. Found some of the
familiar plants, and a multitude of novelties, among them Drosera burmanniz,
Terminalia arjuna, etc. Along the banks there are plenty of mango
trees, the fruit lying on the floor or in the water; no one seems to care for
such fruit, Zerminalia arjuna is plentiful along the sides of the river, tall
straight trees, with whitish trunks. Some of our party have been searching
all these days for Cryptocorine, which we found in abundance in the river
bed in or just out of water. |
Today several of us seemed to come under the weather and this we
attributed to the water ; our servants just took water from the river and
served at table untreated. We started on Entero-vioform treatment, and
our troubles stopped at once.
30 May, 1954, Sunday.
The animal sanctuary is just across the river ; all we saw were crowds
of monkeys, some domesticated buffaloes and heard junglefowl and an
occasional woodpecker. The present area of the animal sanctuary is about
70 sq. miles ; there are said to be some interesting animals still left, such
as sambar, an occasional bison etc. There are several villages in the
territory of the sanctuary, and these are supposed to be moved out of the
place to prevent the wholesale poaching that goes on under the name of
crop protection ; so far, however, no village has been moved.
Botanical excursion to the Moist Deciduous Forest. The spot chosen
for exploration was the forest along the right-hand side of the Experi-
mental Station not far from the forest bungalow. The more striking
points of today’s exploration are these: 1. Caurcuma is very abundant all
over in the undergrowth, often in leaf. 2. Mosquitoes are there in
millions and very hunery. 3. The constitution of the forest is rather
uniform, much bamboo and plenty of Zectona, the two dominant plants ;
in the undergrowth found plenty of Hyranthemum roseum, Murdannia
scapitlorum etc. On our return home we identified the plant Avanthemum
voscum, and decided to collect some more for chemical and medicinal
trials. Two parties went out to collect the plants ; both parties returned
in about half an hour for diverse reasons. One party said they could not
go any further on account of the mosquitoes ; the second party saw in the
ground. the clear marks where a tiger had just sharpened its claws, and
{rom the size of the marks, it was a large animal. The forest guards in-
formed us that all through the previous season two large tigers have been
A BOTANICAL EXCURSION TO NORTH KANARA 27
living in that part of the forest. On the way home some of them saw a
hare of gigantic size, ‘almost like a small deer *.
In today’s excursion I gathered some interesting plants, that gave
many of us great pleasure; Lvanthemum roseum for medicinal trials, very
abundant in the undergrowth; Phaulopsis dorstflora Santapau, the first
time I see this plant in the field ; Justccza trinervia, Nelsonta campestris,
etc. .Among the more abundant plants in the undergrowth is MWurdannia
scapitlorum which is supposed to be a.very rare plant in Bombay State,
31 May, 1954, Monday.
In a private car and a forest lorry went to Shoroli, about 8 miles
south of Dandeli. At the office of the Industrial Mining Enterprises,
Shiroli Mines, we were shown samples of the manganese ore that is being
extracted there. The mines are all surface operated; the upper ground
layers are of bright reddish or yellowish laterite ; below there are streaks
or veins of manganese ore, at times mixed with iron ore ; the latter is not
extracted, the former is only extracted when it contains over 50 % man-
ganese.
Shivoli Khan. ‘This is an impressive plot of evergreen forest; the
trees there reach gigantic proportions ; climbers are all over the place,
epiphytes are quite as common. It is not possible to separate the forest
into several layers, for the various layers seem to mix together into
a very dense mass. The ground slopes very steeply, and this adds
to the difficulty of separating the various layers of the forest. The
more noticeable plants of the Khan are the following :
Pothos scandens Linn.
Piper subpeltatum Willd.
Mallotus stenanthus Muell.
Harpullia arborea Radlk.
(Harpullia imbricata Thw.)
Ardtsia solanacea Roxb.
Capparis heyneana Wall.
Gnetum ula Brongn. an immense climber.
Pristimera indica (Willd.) A. C. Smith.
(Aiippocratea indica Willd.)
Tetrameles nudttlora R. Br.
Callicarpa lanata Linn., a tree.
Holigarna grahamii Hook. f.
Solanum ferox Linn.
Radermachera spec.
Barleria courtallica Nees.
Sarcochilus spec.
Solanum verbascttolium Linn.
Pouteria tomentosa Baehni.
Ancistrocladus heyneanus Wall.
Alstonia scholaris R. Br., a gigantic tree.
Elatostema lineolatum Wt.
Mallotus albus Muell.
Naravellia zeylanica DC. etc.
This was the last outing of this trip and it was a fitting conclusion
to a most interesting field excursion. Everywhere we received the greatest
kindness from the Forest Department, Bombay State; in Dandelj
28 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Mr. Rajput, the Mining Engineer of the Industrial Mining Enterprises,
gave us much help during our short stay in the district ; to them ali go
our gratitude and acknowledgements. Dr. F. A. Kincl deserves special
mention for it was to accompany him in his collection of medicinal plants
that I was given the grand opportunity of touring through North Kanara.
Dr. R. P. Patil, the Forest Botanist, Bombay State, made all the arrange-
ments in connection with the reservation of bungalows, etc. ; without his
help we would have been seriously handicapped in our tour.
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SOME BIRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL
BY
Cot. D. G. LOWNDES
(With a sketch map)
The birds included in the following list were collected for the British
Museum by Major J. O. M. Roberts, m.c., 1/2nd K.E.O. Goorkha Rifles,
during a mountaineering expedition to Central Nepal led by Major
H. W. Tilman, D.S.O., M.c., in the summer of 1950. The species marked
with an asterisk were observed by me but not collected.
But for the fact that the firearms available were far from satisfactory
and that the bulk of the cartridges provided were unfortunately loaded
with No. 6 shot, the collection would have been more extensive.
The localities Manangbhot, Jargeng Khola, Khangsar and Pisang (see
sketch map) are in the dry zone of the upper valley of the Marsiyandi:
River which is effectively sheltered from the monsoon by the Annapurna
Range which rises to a height of over 26,000 ft.
The Manangbhot area is separated from Langtang Khola where
Mr. Polunin collected in 1949 (see JBNHS, 52 : 887) by about 100
miles. ‘The terrain here is of a more arid ‘ Tibetan’ character, and mark-
edly different from the Rasua Garhi Dist. of Central Nepal. We are greatly
indebted to Sir Norman Kinnear for the determination of the specimens.
His notes appear in square brackets). (@ indicates that the bird was not
recorded by Polunin.
LIsT
@ Corvus corax: The Raven.”
Ravens were frequently seen in the valley of the Jargeng Khola,
between 14,000 and 15,000 ft. during July and August.
Urocissa erythroryncha occipitalis : Redbilled Blue Magpie.
ov 31-9-50 Khamihoke 3,000 {t.
In open forest.
Urocissa f. flavirostris : Yellowbilled Blue Magpie.
oJ 30-9-50 Khoplang 3,000 ft.
In open forest.
@ Dendrocitta formosae himalayensis : Himalayan Tree Pie.
J 29-9-50Khoplang 3,900 ft.
In open forest.
Nucifraga caryocatactes hemispila:; Himalayan Nutcracker.
JY. 6-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Frequent in pine forest.
30 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
@ Pyrrhocerax pyrrhocorax himalayensis : Redbilled Chough.
J 9-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Common up to 16,000 ft.
Pyrrhocorax graculus : Yellowbilled Chough,
J 10-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Common up to 16,000 ft. Often in company with the former,
Parus monticolus monticolus: Greenbacked Tit.
© 16-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft. ; 9 21-8-50 Thonje 6,500 ft.
One of the commonest tits in the wet zone from 6-12,000 ft.
[12,000 ft. is the previously reported limit—N.B.K.]
Parus rubidiventris : Rufousbellied Tit.
OILS 26-6-50 to 24-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
From 8,000-13,000 ft. among conifers and birch. The ‘ highest’ tit
and common between 11 and 12,000 ft. [Interesting that this was the
commonest tit between 11 and 12,000 ft.—N.B K.]
Parus ater aemodius : Himalayan Cole Tit.
3 17-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft. Among conifers with other tits and war-
blers ; 9! 24-8-50 Bimta Kothi 12,000 ft. In pine trees near the glacier.
[The specimens are probably the most westerly that have been obtained.
—N.B.K.]
Parus d. dichrous: Brown Crested Tit.
ov 6-9-50 Bimta Kothi 10,000 ft. In dense forest.
@ Trochalopteron erythrocephalum ; Redheaded Laughing Thrush.
J 18-8-50 Thangja 8,900 ft.
In dense mixed forest.
Trochalopteron a. affine: Blackfaced Laughing Thrush.
2 13-8-50 Chame 9,000 ft.
In pine and birch thickets. Also seen at 12,090 ft. at Bimta Kothi.
Trochalopteron lineatum setifer: Streaked Laughing Thrush.
J 18-9-50 Thonje 6,590 ft. In mixed forest and scrub. 3
[Ticehurst, Whistler and I consider that the bird figured by Gould in
‘A Century of Birds from the Himalayas’ is the western and NoT the
Nepal bird. Hodgson named the Nepal bird sefzfey and we consider it
should stand as 7° lineatum setifer, T. 1. lineatum being the bird from the
Simla—Kumaon area. (see /BNVA/5, 52 :—April 1955)—N.B.K.]
Trochalopteron v, variegatum: Variegated Laughing Thrush.
dP 6-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Among conifers and birches, from 9,000 to the tree line, 13,009 ft.
‘The ‘ highest ’ and commonest laughing thrush.
[I do not think it has been recorded as high as 13,000 ft. before—
N.B.K.]
®
SOME BIRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL 31
@ Fulvetta v. vinipecta: Hodgson’s Fulvetta.
J 15-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft. ;
Among pines and birches ; feeding in company with warblers.
Leioptila c. capistrata: Blackheaded Sibia.
oS 18-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
Common from 6,500 to 10,590 ft. in the wet zone.
Siva s, strigula: Stripethroated Siva.
J 17-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
One or two seen in pines and mixed forest between 8,000 and
NOOO sae
Ixulus f, flavicollis : Yellownaped Ixulus.
fi 22-8-50 Thonje 6,500 ft.
Among bushes and willow trees.
Yuhina g. gularis ; Stripethroated Yuhina.
2 18-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
In company with Stripethroated Sivas.
Yuhina occipitalis : Slatyheaded Yubina.
of 17-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft.
Noisy family parties in forest and scrub.
Certhia familiaris mandellii: Nepal Tree Creeper.
9 14-7-50 Manangbhot 13,000 ft.
A few seen among conifers between 11,000 and 13,500 ft.
Troglodytes troglodytes nipalensis : Nepal Wren.
Q 29-8-50 Bimta Kothi 11,000 ft.
On open stony ground.
Hodgsonius ph. phoenicuroides : Hodgson’s Shortwing.
S2 2-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14,009 ft. ; #1 7-7-50 Manangbhot 13,000 ft.
OSQ 24-7--50 and 3-8-50 Khangsar 13,500 ft. |
In birch thickets and juniper ete. scrub from 10,000 to 14,500 ft.
Common. An isolated pair seen at 8,000 ft.
@ Rhodophila f, ferrea: Darkgrey Bush Chat.
Jd 21-9-50 Thonje 6,500 ft.
In mixed forest and scrub.
Phoenicurus frontalis : Bluefronted Redstart.
df 6-7-50 Jargeng Khola 15,000 ft. ; %.18-7-50, Manangbhot 12,500 ft.
Males fairly common in pines and birches and open ground. 11,500
to 15,000 ft. Few females seen.
| Phoenicurus ochrurus rufiventris: Indian Black Redstart.
J 29-8-50 Bimta Kothi 12,000 ft. Open stony ground.
32 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
@ Phoenicurus schisticeps ; Whitethroated Redstart.
SSLISL. 28-6-50 to 29-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.; Qf 24-7-50 and
30-7-50 Khangsar 13,000 ft.
Common among conifers and in juniper scrub 10,000 to 13,000 ft.
Chaimorrhornis leucocephala: Whitecapped Redstart.
Q 20-7-50 Manangbhot 12,500 ft. ; # 29-7-50 Khangsar 14,000 ft.
Range 6—15,000 ft., but very scattered above 11,000 ft.
Rhyacornis f. fuliginosa : Plumbeous Redstart.
J 16-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft.
Up to 10,500 ft. in the wet zone only. More common than the former
at the lower levels.
lanthia cyanura rufilata: Redflanked Bush Robin.
@ 11-7-50, Manangbhot 13,000 ft.; 2 15-7-50 Manangbhot 12,500 ft. ;
2 18-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Fairly plentiful locally in the pine and birch forest between 10 and
13,000 ft., but very few males seen and none secured.
(@ Calliope p. pectoralis : Himalayan Rubythroat.
dif 2-7-50 and 6-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14 and 15,000 ft.; 99% 5-8-50
Khangsar 14 and 15,000 ft.
Fairly common in dwarf juniper and on open hill sides from 13-5,000 ft.
@ Monticola solitaria pandoo ;: Indian Blue Rock Thrush.
Of 26-6-50 and 2-8-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Kare. The only pair seen, on rocky cliffs.
Myophoneus caeruleus temminckii: Himalayan Whistling Thrush.
9 14-8-50 Chame 8,500 ft.
Also seen at 12,000 ft. in Manangbhot, but scarce above 8,500 ft.
@ Accentor collaris nipalensis : Alpine Accentor.
CSF 29-7-50 and 7-8-50 Khangsar 15,500 ft.
Among boulders on rocky slopes and screes from 15-16,000 ft.
Prunella s. strophiata ; Rufousbreasted Accentor.
SSE. 2-7-50, 5-7-50 and 30-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14,000 ft.
Very common in juniper scrub 13,000-15,000 ft.
Muscicapa s. strophiata: Orangegorgeted Flycatcher.
J 14-8-50 Chame 8,560 ft.
At the edge of the forest. Aiso seen at 12,000 ft. at Bimta Kothi.
(@ Muscicapa sibirica fuliginosa ; Sooty Flycatcher.
J (imm.) 17-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
Singly in clearings in the forest.
@ Eumyias thalassina: Verditer Flycatcher
9 22-8-50 Thonje 6,500 ft.
A few seen among willows and bushes.
SOME BIRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL 83
(@ Culicapa c, ceylonensis: Greyheaded Flycatcher.
ot 20-9-50 Thonje 6,500 ft.
In mixed forest and scrub.
@ Alseonax ruficaudus: Rufoustailed Flycatcher.
SM 19-7-50 Mananegbhot 12,000 ft.
Only two seen among pines and birches.
@ Cyornis magnirostris ;
o (imm.) 20-8-50, Thangja 8,500 ft.
In dense forest.
Lanius schach nipalensis ; Rufousbacked Shrike.
JP 26-8-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Among bushes and in fields. 8-13,000 ft. Common from 11-12,000 ft.,
but not seen between 9,000 and 14,000 ft.
@ Pericrocotus ethologus laetus: Shortbilled Minivet.
SQ 4-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.; 2 (imm.) 3-8-50 Khangsar
13,000 ft.
Among conifers 12-13,000 ft. Jn small parties ; occasionally seen.
(@ Phylloscopus affinis ; ‘Tickell’s Willow-Warbler.
OSS 28-6-50, 1-7-59 and 6-8-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.; 2 8-8-50
Khangsar 13,000 ft.
Common among pines and in juniper scrub from 12~14,000 ft. The
‘highest ’ warbler.
Phyloscopus proreguius chloronotus: Pallas’s Willow-Warbler.
3 28-6-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Among pine and birch. One only.
- Phylloscopus r. reguloides: Blyth’s Crowned Willow-Warblet. .
J 15-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft.; — 20-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.; g 12-9-50.,
Thonje 6,500 ft. * |
In pine and birch thickets, etc.
(@ Phylloscopus t. trochiloides : Greenish Willow-Warbler.
10-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft. ; 3 17-8-59 Chame 8,000 ft.
in coniferous and mixed forest, 10-13,000 ft. Overlaps the range of
P. atfinis, but does not occur so high.
Seicercus b, burkii : Blackbrowed Flycatcher—Warbler.
di 13-8-50 Chame 9,000 ft. ; % 23-8-50 Bimta Kothi 10,000 ft.
In thickets between 9,000 and 10,000 ft.
Perissospiza affinis : Allied Grosbeak.
3 3-8-50 Manangbhot 12,500 ft.
In pines. One only.
3
34 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Perissospiza c. carnipes : Whitewinged Grosbeak.
did! 3-7-50 and 5-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14,000 ft. ; 4% 2-7-50 and 4-7-50
Manangbhot 12,500 ft.
In pines and juniper trees 10-14,000 ft. ; common between 12,000 and
13,000 ft.
Pyrrhula erythrocephala : Redheaded Bullfinch.
OS LAY 2-7-50 to 8-8-50 Manangbhot 12-13, COO ft.
In mixed forest. Not common.
Carpodacus p. pulcherrimus : Beautiful Rosefinch.
S22 1-7-50 to 5-7-50 Jargeng Khola 13-14,000 tt, 3 13-7-50,
Manangbhot 12,000 ft.; #Q 24-7-50 and 28-7-50 Rh aneeen 13, 000 ft.
13-15,000 ft. Occurs at higher levels than C. erythrinus roseatus, but
seen together at 13,000 ft.
Carpodacus erythrinus roseatus : Common Rosefinch.
SLA SLE 26-6-50 to 15-7-50 Manangbhot 12,090 ft.: # 24-7-50
Khangsar 13,000 ft.
9-14,0C0 ft. Fairly common upto 13,000 ft. among rocks and scrub
Sometimes in open coniferous forest.
@, Pyrrhospiza punicea : Redbreasted Rosefinch.
J 5-7-50 and 7-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14-14,500 ft.
Seen on five occasions only, among rocks and juniper scrub. Only
one female seen.
(@ Carduelis caniceps ; Himalayan Goldfinch.
J€ 28-6-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.; #1 29-7-50 Khangsar 13,000 ft.
In fields and scrub, 10-13,000 ft. Quite large flocks in June.
Hypacanthis s, spinoides : Himalayan Greenfinch.
SES 28-6-50 to 15-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Common in flocks, 8-12,500 ft. in fields and forest. In mid-July
10-11,000 ft.
Fringillauda mn, nemoricola ;: Hodgson’s Mountain Finch.
Q 29-7-50 Khangsar 15,500 ft.; §% 4-7-50 Jareng Khola 14,000 ft.
In dwarf juniper 14-15,500 ft. and higher. In pairs and large flocks.
Passer montanus mialaccensis : Tree Sparrow.
2 11-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
~ Common in villages and fields upto 13,000 ft.
(@ Emberiza cia stracheyi ; Eastern Meadow Bunting.
SAIS LS 24-6-50 to 30-7-50 Manangbhot 12-13,000 ft.
10,C00—13,000 ft.
@ Motacilla cinerea melanope : Grey Wagtail.
d' 12-8-50 Pisang 10,000 ft.; #1 21-8-50 Thangja 7,000 ft. ; fg 31-8-50
Bimta Kothi 12,000 ft.
SOME BIRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL 35
Open wet ground and under bushes. Not above 10,000 ft. in the dry
zone, but up to 13,500 ft. in the wet zone. Feeding young at Pisang on
29-5-50. S
@ Motacilla alba alboides : Hodgson’s Pied Wagtail.
Jd 26-6-50 and 28-6-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Wet fields and stony stream beds. Not common.
@ Motacilla alba personata : Masked Wagtail.
Jf 15-7-50 Manangbhot 11,500 ft.
One only seen on open stony ground.
@ Anthus hodgsoni : Indian Tree Pipit.
J 2-7-50 Jargeng Khola 15,000 ft.; 9 2-7-50 Manangbhot 12,500 £t. ;
o 30-7-50, 0 ? 6-8-50 Khangsar 13,000 ft.; 4 20-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
Seen on open rocky ground. In forest and also among dwarf juniper
up to 14,50 ft. at the edge of forest.
Anthus roseatus : Hodgson’s Pipit.
o ? 6-8-50 Khangsar 14,590 it.
Locally fairly common on open slopes to 15,500 ft.
@ Otocoris alpestris elwesi : Elwes’s Horned Lark.
& 5-8-50 Khangsar 15,090 ft.
One pair only seen with young on high open slopes.
Aethopyga n. nipalensis ; Nepal Yellowbacked Sunbird.
SPS 12-9-50 to 21-9-50 Thonje 6,500 ft. ; #1 15-8-50 Chame 8,000 ft.
In forest and open scrub. Among pine trees.
@ Pachyglossa melanoxantha : Yellowbellied Flowerpecker.
J 18-8-50 Thonje 8,090 ft.
In clearings in dense forest. Seen nowhere else.
Picus s. squamatus : Scalybellied Green Woodpecker.
@ 23-8-50 Bimta Kothi 9,500 ft. ; 4 10-93-50, Thonje 6,500 ft.
A single bird seen at the edge of mixed forest.
@ Dryobates macei : Fulvousbreasted Pied Woodpecker.
9 17-8-50 Thangja 8,000 tte
In mixed forest.
Cuculus canorus : Cuckoo.”
Cuckoos were comparatively plentiful (and were breeding) between
12,000 and 13,590 ft. in Manangbhot from June to August.
Rhopodytes tristis ; Greenbilled Malkoha.
© 30-9-50 Khamihoke 2,000 ft.
In open forest.
36 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
@ Coracias b. benghalensis : Indian Roller.
3 5-8-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft. A single stray bird in open meadow.
[Occurrence at 12,000 ft. is remarkable, as it is not usually found above
4,000 ft.—N.B.K.]
Upupa epops : Hoopoe.*
Hoopoes appeared in Manangbhot in small numbers during July and
were in evidence until the second week of August.
@ Strix nivicola : Himalayan Wood Owl.
© 14-8-50 Chame 9,000 ft.
Pine forest. Almost the only owl seen in five months.
@ Gyps himalayensis; Griffon Vulture.*
A single pair of Griffon Vultures was frequently to be seen in the area
round Braga village, 11,500 ft., during June and July.
(@ Gypaétus barbatus : Lammergeier.*
Several pairs of Lammergeiers were present in Manangbhot from May
to September at altitudes from 11,000 to 14,000 ft.
Milvus govinda : Pariah Kite.*
A single pair of Kites was present in the area of Braga village during
July.
Eagles were frequently to be seen soaring above the Marsiandi Valley
in Manangbhot during June and July ; possibly Aguzla chrysaétos.
Smaller birds of prey were conspicuous by their absence, but on 27 July
a Falcon took a young— very young—Snowcock from a family party that
Major Roberts was stalking.
(@ Sphenocercus s. sphenurus : Wedgetailed Green Pigeon.
2 18-8-50 Thangja 8,000 ft.
Fairly common in the tree-tops in mixed forest, and flighting.
(@ Columba livia ; Rock Pigeon.
J (imm.) 3-7-50 Manangbhot 12,0090 ft.
Common 10-13,000 ft. on fields, cliffs and gorges. Small flocks,
often in company with /ezconota.
Columba |. leuconota ; Snow Pigeon.
9 28-6-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Common 11—15,590 ft. on fields, and less often on high open slopes.
In large flocks.
(@ Dendrotreron hodgsoni ; Speckled Wood Pigeon.
2 23-8-50 Bimta Kothi 10,000 ft.
Several seen in open mixed forest.
Streptopelia o, orientalis ; Rufous Turtle Dove.
2 13-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft. ; 9 30-7-50 Ehangsat 13,000 ft.
In coniferous forest up to 13, O00 ft.
SOME BIRDS FROM NORTH-WESTERN NEPAL 37
@ Ithaginis c. cruentus ; Blood Pheasant.
oJ 29-8-50 Bimta Kothi 12,000 ft.
In birch woods. Locally well known and named Chzlme.
@ Alectoris graeca chukar ; Chukor.
J 26-6-50 and 3-7-50 Manangbhot 12,000 ft.
Quite plentiful on fields 10-13,000 ft. Young seen in June.
@ Perdix h. hodgsoniae : Tibetan Partridge.
J 5-7-50 Jargeng Khola 14,000 ft.; # (imm.) 29-7-50 Khangsar
14,000 ft.
In juniper scrub. Very noisy in the mornings.
Tetraogallus himalayensis : Snowcock.
Snowcock were common between 14,000 and 16,000 ft. in Manang-
bhot during July and August.
Lophophorus impejanus ; Monal Pheasant.
© 29-8-50 Bimta Kothi 13,000 ft.
Sparingly above the tree line. Does not occur in the dry zone.
[In Sikkim not recorded above 15,000 ft.—N.B.K. ]
@ Tringa ochropus ; Green Sandpiper.*
During July solitary Green Sandpipers were seen on several occasions
on the river-shingles in the valley near Braga.
(@® Scolopax rusticola ; Woodcock.
Woodcock were observed ‘ roding’ at Tone! 6,500 ft. on 25 May.
@ Mareca penelope : Wigeon.* |
A solitary cock Wigeon in full breeding plumage was seen on a small
pond onll June. It was most unwilling to fly and had presumably been
injured,
(@ Nyroca ferina : Pochard.*
A small party of Pochards was seen on another pond on 10 June;
the drakes in breeding plumage.
A few other duck and teal were observed (on passage ?) on several
occasions early in June,
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN
BY
Daya KRISHNA, D.PHIL (Alld.), PH.D, (Cantab.), F.Z.S.,
AND
IsHWAR PRAKASH
Jaswant College, Jodhpur
Part 1. FossorrtaAL HAapirs AND DISTRIBUTION
(With four text-tigures)
INTRODUCTION
Although the fossorial habits of many insectivores (moles and shrews
etc.) have been studied to some extent, those of hedgehogs have not been
studied so far. In this country particularly even their distribution has not
been satisfactorily studied. Among the earlier workers, Herrick (1892)
and Wood (1910) have studied only certain aspects of the fossorial habits
of moles. The former has described their digging habits to be ‘swim-
ming through the earth’. Wood (1910) remarked: ‘the burrows of the
moles are always excavated not by bringing dirt to the surface but by
pushing it aside.’ Later on Hisaw (1923) and recently Reed (1951) have
described in detail the method of their digging and shoving of the soil.
Coming to the question of their distribution in this country, Jerdon
(1867), Blanford (1888-91), Wroughton (1918), Prater (1948) and Eller-
man and Morrison-Scott (1951) have recorded the presence of these
animals on a very broad basis. ‘The details are lacking and also these
workers have not mentioned anything about the population density of
these animals.
This study, therefore, has been attempted in order to collect further
information. ‘fhe distribution was studied last summer (1954) during our
tour of the desert. ‘The tour was undertaken under a UNESCO scheme
to study the role of vertebrates in spreading and preserving the desert
conditions. We are highly grateful to UNESCO for the financial help.
Information on distribution was also collected through the officers of the
Government of Rajasthan, and those of the Anti-Locust Department
(Directorate of Plant Protection, Government of India). The fossorial
and feeding habits were studied in Pilani under the patronage of the Birla
Education Trust, for which we are thankful to its Secretary, Shri S. D.
Pande. We also acknowledge the help given by the Government depart-
ments and various organisations and express our gratitude to them and
also to those individuals who helped us in various ways from time to time.
Our thanks are also due to Shri K. S. Pradhan of the Zoological Survey
of India and to its Director for helping us with necessary literature.
TECHNIQUE
Owing to their nocturnal habit, hedgehogs are not easily collected
during the day time. They are generally found in the evenings under
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN 39
hedges. Ina village or outside a town they are often seen under lamp
posts, where they come to feed upon insects and toads. During the day
they have to be dug out of their burrows. For the present study they
were kept in captivity and also in semi-captivity. For the former condition
they were kept in large cages (90” x 30” x 30”) with a thick layer of sand
at their bottom; for the latter they were left in aclosed courtyard
(15’ x 20’). For the study of the burrow its roof was removed and the
burrow was covered with a glass pane. After this change, too, the
hedgehogs continued to use the tunnel.
DISTRIBUTION
According to our collections and the reports received, there are two
species of hedgehogs found in this region: 1. Hemiechinus aurttus
collaris Gray 2. Paraechinus micropus micropus Blyth. The former is spread
all over the desert. It is less abundant in the northern and western regions
MAP OF \
@ 4 Sem
= Gine RAJASTHAN
J, :SANGANAGARES a
7 Se nay DISTRIBUTION OF HEDGEHOGS
Ngo: "28, IN THE DESERT AREA
ber
0) Leite
\ } > BIKANER
ES 2 MO sel 7
& / fo
es
2 o +
Ee 6 Se
an JAISALHER — POKRAN
° o
s
>
a)
PHALODI'
es
° wks
, BARMER
‘ es
e
UDAIPUR
REFERENCES
" Hemiechinus auritus collaris — Earn
Paraechinus micropus micropus
DESERT ARPA
40 JOURNAL,’ BOMBAY NATURAL) AIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
a
(Ganganagar, Bap, Phalodi, Jaisalmer and Barmer) than in the southern
and eastern ones (Ratangarh, Jhunjhunu, Bikaner and Jodhpur).
P. m. micropus is confined to the north-eastern part (Ratangarh and
Jhunjhunu), where it is more abundant than even H/. a. collaris. Our
catches have shown that P. m. micropus are twice as abundant there as
ff. a. collavis. Here the collection was made at three different places for
a fixed period at each one (three days) in the months of August and
September. The catches revealed that the sex ratio for both the species
in these months was 3 males to ‘1 female.
Jerdon (1867) and Blanford (1888-91) did not record P. m. micropus
from Rajasthan, and have mentioned that this variety occurred only in the
South India (Trichinopoly and Coimbatore etc.). At that time the sub-
species mzcropus and nudiventris were not separated and were included
under a common name mzcropus, which had a full specific rank. The
accounts of Jerdon (1867) and Blanford (1888-91) are correct for the
Paraechinus micropus nudiventris Horsfield but not for P. m. micropus.
The other reason for their omission could be that they collected material
from Barmer, Jaisalmer and Ganganagar only, where we also have not
observed this sub-species. Later Wroughton (1918) has recorded the
presence of P. m. micropus from this northern part of Rajasthan and has
described Bahawalpur as its type locality. The type locality for //. a. collaris
was not yet spotted out,
GENERAL HABITS
Hedgehogs are nocturnal and during the day they remain inside their
burrows rolled up as a ball. They come out at dusk and remain active
for about 5 to 6 hours. They retire to their burrows at mid-night.
When touched, or sometimes even when approached, they roll up in an
impregnable ball of spines, withdrawing their snout and limbs. After
some time they slowly and cautiously open out. Whena stick is inserted
in their burrow they make a hissing noise. Probably this is an adapta-
tion to mimic snakes which are generally regarded to be dangerous
animals. In captivity also they make a similar noise when they are
touched to pick up and also react with an upward jerk as they are
touched. When the animal is moving its spines are directed backwards,
but as it rolls up they stand erect due to the stretching of measculaus
orbicularts.
FOSSORIAL HABITS
Hedgehogs spend most of their life under the ground. They inhabit
small burrows dug by themselves. These burrows are invariably found
under a hedge or a dense bush, but never in open ground and in loose
soil. These subterranean homes follow a fixed plan. ‘They are simple
straight pouches in the earth with only one opening. Their inner blind
ends ate slightly dilated and there is no ‘bolt run’ (Fig. 2). The bur-
rows are ustially 1 to 14 ft. long but in Bikaner, where the soil is looser
than in Jhunjhunu, 4 to 5 ft. long burrows have also been observed.
Ordinarily only one individual lives in a burrow, except in the breeding
season when the female lives with her offspring till such time as they are
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN AL
old enough to dig their own burrow. ‘To accommodate the young, the
female widens the blind (distal) end of the burrow (Fig. 3). In semi-
captivity P. m. microfus made an abnormal burrow in which three
individuals used to live (Fig. 4). The following are the dimensions of
the burrows :—
Length . , leetoves?
Diameter of opening Re ae atten aoe
Diameter of distal dilated end... 3°5” to 5”
Diameter of the distal blind end
of burrow of female hedgehog
in breeding season gyn es (Onl
Deptn eA aonnto: LAY
Ce eed
TAT HG UG 4
EnGe 2
Burrow of hedgehog. Common in nature. Vertical Section.
— > emo ao oe moe
biyrgdid,
ltyaql
|
|
ytd
oD
14!
— oro memantine i ed
tee mrp in|
| |
|
|
fprpPbldgagdday
list!
IG 3)
Burrow of female hedgehog in breeding season. Vertical section.
42 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
—_ -~ —o ese ED os oS
—
—_
_
==
—
—
en
=
Fic. 4
Abnormal burrow of hedgehogs, dug by three Paraechinus micropus micropus.
A was dug first, then B and C were dug by two other individuals. Vertical Section.
Hedgehogs enter their burrow head first and while doing so they pro-
ject the anterior portion of the musculus orbicularts over the snout. to
protect it from any injury. The animal iies in the burrow in two
positions: 1. Halfrolled up, 2. fully stretched. In its return journey
also, the snout comes first. The turning inside the narrow burrow is
done by pressing the body sideways.
During the process of digging, hedgehogs loosen the earth by lateral
strokes of the fore-limbs, which are armed with broad spade-like claws.
These strokes are so powerful that the sand is thrown to a considerable
distance behind the body. Shoving of dirt is thus achieved by the power-
ful strokes of the fore-limbs till the burrow is 6” to 7” long. Thereafter,
when the burrow reaches a length of about a foot, the hedgehog backs
up to the middle of the burrow in ‘ reverse gear’ and kicks the sand out
by the rapid alternate action of the hind-limbs. A small hill of sand is
formed at the opening of the burrow. The hedgehog now comes to the
opening by moving in reverse and shoves away the hill also, again with
its hind-limbs. In semi-captivity P. mm. microbus were not observed
to dig their own burrows. ‘They always preferred to remain under logs
and dense branches of bushes. Sometimes they chose the burrows dug
and vacated by #7. a. collarvis. In nature, however, the P. m7. micropus
were always found in burrows. 7. a. collarvis, on the contrary, always
dug their burrows themselves. When the earth is sufficiently hard they
usually compiete digging their 12” to 15” long burrow in 3 to 4 hours.
The method of digging of these animals is similar to that of the moles,
Scalopus aguaticus machrinoides (Hisaw, 1923), Scapanus latimanus
latimanus (Reed, 1951) and WNeurotrichus (Reed, 1951). No other
insectivore has been recorded by naturalists to shovel like these animals.
The talpine mole, Scapanus latimanus latimanus shoves the earth by
‘using one outthrust hand as a pusher, with the neck and _ thorax
bent to one side and locomotion achieved by use of the other three
limbs ; this same posture is maintained when pushing dirt out onto the
surface. Under such conditions the hind-limbs would be performing the
major part of locomotor effort’ (Reed, 1951). About the shoving by
Neurotrichus, Reed (1951) states: ‘ It does not however, bring dirt to
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN 43
the surface to form mole, hills, nor does it seem to transport dirt through
a burrow as will a true mole ; presumably it always excavates in such soft
earth that a burrow can readily be constructed by pressing the dirt aside.’
Cuvier (1817) wrote that there is a special bone in the nose of the
mole, Zalpa europea, which the animal uses for digging. But Reed’s
remarks are to the contrary. He writes: ‘I can only say that there is no
special ‘ digging ’ bone in the nose of Scapanus latimanus and Neurotrichus
gibbsiz, and I doubt if any other mole has one.’ Other observers have
also not recorded the presence of the special bone which Cuvier (1817)
mentioned (J. G. Wood, 1859 ; Herrick, 1892 ; Stephens, 1906 ; Slonaker,
1920).
Skulls of these hedgehogs were also examined, and no such special
bone has been observed. Moreover, the hedgehogs have never been
observed using their snouts for digging purposes.
SUMMARY
1. Fossorial habits of two species of hedgehogs found in the desert
of Rajasthan are described ; also their method of tunnelling.
2. The distribution of Hemiechinus auritus collaris Gray and Paraechi-
nus micropus mucropus Blyth in the desert of Rajasthan is given.
REFERENCES
Blanford, W. T. (1888-91) : Fauna of British India. Mammalia. ‘Taylor and
Francis, London.
Cuvier, G. (1817) : Le régne animal distribué d’aprés son organisation, Vol. I.
L’. Introduction, les mammiféres, et les oeseaux (Deterville, Paris} 1-540.
Ellerman, J. R. and Morrison-Scott, I.C.S. (1951) : Check-list of Palaearctic and
Indian Mammals. British Museum. London.
Herrick, C. L. (1892): The Mammals of Minnesota. Geol. and Nat. Hist.
Surv. Minn, Bull., 7+ 37-42.
Hisaw, F. L. (1923): Observations of the burrowing habits of mole (Scalopus
aquaticus machrinoides)., Jour. Mamm. 4: 79-88.
Jerdon, I’. C. (1867): The Mammals of India.
Prakash, Ishwar (1954): Swimming and locomotion of captive’ hedgehog,
JBNAS, 52: 584-585.
Prater, S. H. (1948):- The Book of Indian Animals, Bombay Natural History
Society, Bombay.
Reed, C. A. (1951): Locomotion and appendicular anatomy in three soricoid
insectivores. Amer. Midl. Nat., 45 : 513-671.
Slonaker, J. R. (1920): some morphological changes for adaptations in the
mole. Jour. Morph., 34: 335-373.
Stephens, F.(1906) : California Mammals. San Diego (West Coast Publishing Co.)
Wood, F. E. (1910): A Study of Mammals of Champaign county, Illinois, JZ7/,
State Lab. Nat. Hist. Bull., 8: 500-613.
Wroughton, R, C. (1918) : Summary of results from the Indian Mammals Survey
of the Bombay Natural History Society. JBNAS., 26: 19,
NOTES ON A COLLECTION OF FISH FROM THE
HEADWATERS OF THE BHAVANI RIVER, SOUTH INDIA
BY
©. RAJAN
(From the Laboratories of the Zoological Survey of India, Calcutta)
INTRODUCTION
Two collections of fish were made at different periods in 1954, from
the Bhavani and Moyar rivers and some of their tributaries. The first
collection, mainly from the Moyar watershed, was made from February
to April. The second collection was made from both the rivers from
September to November. Since the collection is fairly representative of
the area surveyed, it is intended to report on it. The Bhavani River
drains the southern and the Moyar River the north-eastern face of the
Nilgiri Hills.
Since the publication of Day’s volume on Fishes in the Fauna of
British India series (1889) the only other comprehensive list of fishes of
the Nilgiri and Wynaad Hills is that given by Hora (1942)'. ‘The present
collection, which comprises 2380 specimens, can be referred to 48
species and was made at different altitudes. Above 5000 feet, only
specimens of Danio Hamilton, Rasbora Bleeker, Tor Gray and Moema-
cheilus van Hasselt were collected, while these and the other genera given
in the list below occur at lower altitudes. Naturalised species, namely,
Carassius carassius (Linnaeus) ; Cyprinus carpio (Linnaeus) var. communis
and var. specularis ; Tinca tinca (Bloch) and Gambusia affinis Baird and
Girard were obtained from the Ootacamund Lake while Salmo levenensis
Walker? was collected from the Krurumund River.
LOCALITIES
For the sake of brevity, the localities are tabulated as follows :—
No. Localities No. of Stations
1. Bhavani River, between Chindaki and Bhavanisagar ... 29
2. Kunda River BAD we “ie 2
3. Taimalai Stream Sas oaks ide 1
4, Pykara River, between Mukurti Dam and Wood
Estate wan 5
Krurumund River 1
6. Moyar River, between Moyar Division of Government
Cinchona Plantations, Naduvatam and Gazalhatti
7. Stream running through Devarshola Estate, crossing the
Gudalur Sultan Battery Road at Mile 4/3 40
8. Stream in Devon Estate, Devarshola
9, Stream below the Tea Experiment Station, Devarshola
10. Stream in Kekkanhalla 600
11. Sandy Nullah River
12. Kokkal Stream
13. Siruvani River
bt pet FF DO DO DD fp)
~
1 Hora, S. L., Rec. Ind., Mus., 44. pp. 193-200 (1942 ).
* Misra, K.S., Rec. Ind. Mus., 45. p. 412 (1947).
en retin
A COLLECTION OF FISH FROM THE BHAVANI RIVER 45
LIST OF SPECIES
Number of Standard Length
Name of Species
Family Cyprinidae
Sub-family Abramadinae
MG
Chela atpar (Hamilton) one
2. Chela lanbuca (Hamilton)
3h
4,
Oxygaster argentea (Day) Ore
Oxygaster clupeoides (Bloch) on8
Sub-family Rasborinae
OHO ND En
Barilius bendelisis Hamilton
Barilius gatensis (Valenciennes)
Danio aequipinnatus (McClelland)
Esomus barbatus (Jerdon)
Rasbora daniconius (Hamilton )
Sub-family Cyprininae
Ambly pharyngodon melettina OE SS ae eae
Puntius amphibius (Valenciennes)
Puntius carnaticus (SJerdon)
Puntius chola Hamilton
Puntins curmuca (Hamilton)
Puntius dorsalis (Jerdon)
Puntius dubius Day
Puntius tilamentosus (Valenciennes)
Puniius jerdonit Day ~
Puntius melanampyx (Day)
Puntius micropogon (Valenciennes)
Puntius pulchellus (Day)
Puntius savana (Hamilton)
Puntius sophore Hamilton
Puntius ticto ticto Hamilton
Tor khudree (Sykes)
Osteochilus (Kantaka) brevidorsalis (Day) ..
Osteochilus (Osteochilichthys) nashit ane BG
Labeo kontius (Jerdon) :
Sub-family Garrinae
29.
30.
We
32.
Cirr hina veba (Hamilton)
Garra mullya (Sykes)
Garra jerdoni (Day)?
Garra stenorhynchus (Jerdon)
Family Cobitidae
33.
34,
35.
36.
37.
Lepidocephalus ther matis (Valenciennes) ...
Noemacheilus beavani Ginther of
Noemacheilus denisonit Day
Noemacheilus guenthert Day oes
Noemacheilus monilis Hora Sie
Family Siluridae
38.
39,
Ompok bimaculatus (Bloch)
Silurus berdmoret wynaadensis Day
Family Bagridae
40.
4},
42.
43,
Mystus cavasius (Hamilton)
My stus malabaricus (Jerdon) +f
Mystus punctatus (Jerdon) ade
Mystus vittatus (Bloch) eos
Specimens
me
CO Fr & &
in mm,
Minimum Maximum
31.25 - 82.00
34.00 - 56.75
25.29 ~ 99.75
64.25 - 99.00 -
52.50 - 74.00
19.25 — 89.00
15.00 - 83.25
38.25 - 71.25
22.90 - 72.75
42.00 - 68.25
45,25 -— 88.00
23.00 — 250.00
62.00 -77.50
43.75
31.25
91.00 - 107.50
33.00- 56.50
46.50 - 61.25
26.00 - 48.50
82.00 - 169.09
36.25 - 95.00
76.50 - 106.00
43.75 - 56.25
14.75 — 50.00
98.00 - 200.00
54.75 - 126.25
36.00
94,50 - 156,00
89.00 — 140.00
21.50 — 112.00
73.00 —- 125.00
26.00 - 120.00
25.00 - 48.75
33.60 - 49.75
30.75 ~ 32.75
52.00
46.00 - 46.75.
259.25
99.00
97.25 — 118.50
79.75 - 81.00.
320.00
54.00 — 73.00
u Silas, E. e Roan Gierion’ Ss work ' On the Trechaater Fishes of Southern
India’ (1840).
(Seen in MSS.)
46 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Family Sisoridae
44. Glyplothorax madraspatanus (Day) is 9 81.75 - 94.75
Family Anguillidae
45, Anguilla omnia aie 500 i 1000.00
Family Gobiidae
46. Glossogobius giuris (Hamilton) md 7 ~ 86.00 - 150.00
Family Ophiocephalidae
47. Channa gachua (Hamilton) Bod 14 50.00 - 85.50
Family Mastacembelidae
48. Mastacembelus armatus (Lacépéde) at 6 135.00 - 326.00
NOTES ON CERTAIN SPECIES
Esomus barbatus (Jerdon)
1928. Esomus barbatus, Hora and Mukerji, Rec. Ind. Mus., 30: 46.
Hora and Mukerji (loc. cit.), while discussing the taxonomy of this
species, observed that ‘it can be readily distinguished by its characteristic
coloration (sides without black, broad, lateral bands) and by the posses-
sion of 17 predorsal scales’, from £&. ¢hermoicos (Cuvier and Valen-
ciennes).
In as many as thirty specimens of &. darbatus examined, it is found
that the number of predorsal scales varies between 17 and 19. Fresh
specimens also show a well-defined dark lateral band, about one scale
in width, extending from the posterior margin of the orbit or from the
operculum to the base of the caudal fin.
Thus it wiil be seen that both in the coloration and scalation there is
considerable intergradation between Jdarbatus of Peninsular India and
thermoicos of Ceylon. Asthe minor differences noticeable between the
two do not seem to be of specific importance, it is best to consider
thermoticos as a subspecies of the earlier described darbatus as treated by
Silas (1955).*
This species is distributed throughout South India.
Puntius carnaticus (Jerdon)
1932. Barbus carnaticus, Mukerji, JBNAS, 35: 164.
In a young specimen examined, there is a clear, dark precaudal spot
extending over the penultimate lateral line scale. The outer margins of
a few anterior scales along the lateral line show dark pigmentation.
Day (op. cit. p. 305) introduced this species in the Ootacamund Lake,
but it seems to have failed to acclimatize itself there as no catch has been
reported in recent years.
It is distributed in the rivers along the base of the Nilgiris, Wynaad,
Mysore and South Kanara and in the Anamalai and Nelliampathi Hill
ranges.
ten
Anodes coh
1 Silas, E. G., Bull. Nat. Inst, Sci. India, No.5. p. (1955),
A COLLECTION OF FISH FROM THE BHAVANI RIVER 47
Puntius micropogon (Valenciennes)
1941. Barbus (Puntius) micropogon Raj, Rec. Ind. Mus., 43: 382.
The specimens of P. mzcropogon in the present collection fall under
group 3 as given by Raj, but they exhibit slight variations, which may
be partly due to their smaller size. The number of scales along the
lateral line are 41 and 42, and the L. tr. is 74 11/4-5. The diameter of
the eye is contained 1.25 to 1.75 times in the snout.
The distribution of this species is in the rivers around the base of
Nilgiris, Wynaad, Mysore and South Kanara. A subspecies, vzz. P.
micropogon periyarensis Raj has been described from the Periyar River
in the Travancore Hills.
Labeo kontius (Jerdon) .
1889. Labeo kontius, Day, Fauna, Brit. India, Fish. 1, p. 264.
Since the specimens show some variations in the range of certain
characters from Day’s description, a brief account of the species is given
below.
The length of the head is contained from 4.80 to 5.86 times in the
total and 3.74 to 4.46 times in the standard length. The snout is contain-
ed 1.94 to 2.36 times in the head length. The eyes are situated 1.57 to
2.46 diameters behind the tip of the snout, and are 3.73 to 5.07 in the head
length and 1.80 to 2.50 in the inter-orbital distance. The height of the
body is contained 4.04 to 5.46 times in the total and 3.19 to 4.00 times
in the standard length. There are 14 to 16 (3/11-13) dorsal fin rays.
The number of lateral line scales ranges from 39 to 42; and the predorsal
scales from 15 to 17. There are 8 to 95 rows of scales between the
dorsal fin and the lateral line; 54 to 64 rows between the lateral line and
pelvic fin and 64 to 74 rows between the lateral line and the origin of the
anal fin. Scales round the caudal peduncle number 21 or 22 along the
natrowest part.
L. kontius is distributed in Nilgiris and Mysore.
Noemacheilus monilis Hora
1921. Nemachilus monilis, Hora, Rec. Ind. Mus., 22:19.
This is the first record of this beautifully coloured loach from
the Bhavani river (Siruvani, a tributary stream) after its discovery
ray JUS ZI
In all essential features the two specimens in the present collection
agree with Hora’s detailed description except in the number of dorsal fin
rays, which is 3/8 in one of the specimens. This would mean that in
NV. monilzs the dorsal fin ray count is 3/7-8.
Mystus malabaricus (Jerdon)
1889. Macrenes malabaricus Day, Fauna Brit. India, Fish. x. p. 160.
In most of the characters it conforms to Day’s description of the
species, except with regard to the pectoral and anal fin ray counts. The
former shows a count of 1/7 versus (Day: 1/9). In the latter the number
of rays varies from 11 to 13 (3-4/8-9) versus (Day : 2-3/8).
48 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The species is distnbuted from Ratnagiri District in Bombay State
down to Travancore.
Mystus punctatus (Jerdon)
1889. Jacrones punctatus Day, Fauna Brit. India, Fish, z., p. 153.
One specimen of JZ. punctatus, 320 mm. in length was obtained from
the Moyar river at Mangalapatti. The specimen was taken on hook,
which was laid at dusk and removed next morning. The predaceous
nature of this species is seen from the fact that the stomach was found to
contain a full-sized specimen of Garra stenorhynchus (Jerdon) 103 mm.
in length and a severed head (25 mm. long) of the same species of
Garra.
Glyptothorax madraspatanus (Day)
1889. Gly ptosternum madraspatanum, Day, Fauna Brit. India, Fish. 1., p. 200.
1938. Glyptothorax madraspatanus, Hora, Rec. Ind. Mus., 40 : 370.
1951. Glyptothorvax madraspatanus, Silas, JBNA'S, 50 : 368.
Nine specimens of G. madvaspatanus were collected, of which five are
females and the rest males. Since they show differences from Day’s
description and as the body proportions of adult males and females seem
to differ in certain characters, a brief description of the species giving
these details is appended below.
The length of the head is contained 4.86 to 5.54 (#1 5.14-5.54; 2
4.86-5.21) and the depth of the body 4.93 to 8.04 (7 6.20-8.41 ; ¢ 4. 93-
6.70) times in the total length and 3.71 to 4.22 (#1 3.87-4.22 ; 9 3.71-
4.04) and 3.81 to 6.52 (f 4.71-6.41 ; 2 3.82—5.08) in the standard length
respectively. The occipital process is 2.18 to 4.42 times as long as wide
at its base. ~The dorsal spine is serrated at its Upper third anteriorly and
all along its posterior margin. The caudal peduncle is 1.68 to 2.17 times
as long as high and the ‘adhesive disc ’ on the ventral surface is 1.28 to
1.55 times as long as wide. ‘The general body colour is yellowish grey,
being darker on the head and anterior part of the body. ‘There are two
broad, transverse lighter bands, one from below the tip of the dorsal fin
extending to about the middle of the adipose dorsal and the second from
below the last third of the adipose dorsal to the base of the caudal fin.
There is a black band at the base of the caudal fin followed by a broad white
band. Each caudal lobe has a black band and the tips are white. The
rayed dorsal, adipose dorsal, pectoral, pelvic and anal fins are tipped white.
There is a dark band at the upper half of the dorsal fin extending along
the first three rays. ‘The ventral surface is dirty white. ‘The region of
the disc is yellowish. In gravid females the colour pattern is lighter
while in mature males the entire dorsal surface is dark greyish.
G. madraspatanus is distributed in the Nilgiris and parts of Mysore.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am deeply indebted to Dr. 5. L. Hora, Director, Zoological Survey
of India, for the facilities offered me to work out this collection, and to Dr.
E. G. Silas, for all the help he has rendered me in the preparation of this
paper. ‘To the staff of the Madras Fisheries and Forest Departments and
the Nilgiri Game Association my thanks are due for all the help rendered
me while out in the field.
Ss q AN
nia.
~~ va ‘00S ‘JSIET ‘JUN Avquog ‘udnor
BIRD MIGRATION AND FOWLING IN AFGHANISTAN
BY
S. A. AKHTAR
Professor ot Biology, Faculty of Science, Kabul
(With a map)
It is a well known fact that in the northern hemisphere, birds have
their breeding quarters in the northern parts and winter quarters near the
Equator. Absence of an adequate food supply in winter is by itself
enough to account for emigration; and return from the south in spring
is probably due to the desire of birds to re-occupy their old homes in
which they have been bred. By means of migration they avoid the
rigours of the northern winter while they are able to enjoy the long hours
of the northern summer when rearing their young. There can be little
doubt that during migratory movements visual clues play an important
if not exclusive part ; and the majority of birds adopt routes along the
tiver courses where they are provided with food as well as drink.
[ ? Eps. }
It is not intended here to discuss the birds as a whole, but to examine
the conditions of those species which have their summer quarters north
of the Himalayas and their winter quarters south of that range. It is quite
possible that the bulk of the migratory birds from Siberia, after spending
Winter in India pass round the Himalayas either east or west. No great
migratory movements have been observed via any of the big Himalayan
valleys between Kashmir and Sikkim. ‘The Himalayan extension towards
south from Kashmir to Quetta appears to offer no obstacle except the
Sulaiman Range, if that is of any importance, but nowhere have the
migrants been observed so plentifully as at the lower end of the Kurram
Valley. Here in the months of February and March are found vast
quantities of wildfowl, waders, gulls etc. on passage to their far-off
northern homes from the lower reaches of the Indus and the Manchar
Lake in Sind. Whitehead remarks: ‘The majority of these birds un-
doubtedly keep to the river-route, there being no other important water-
way lying near that line of migration, and must therefore of necessity pass
up the Kurram Valley.’
The migrants from Sind etc. thus enter Afghanistan through the
Kurram Valley which leads them to the upper basin of the Kabul River
in which it flows with its tributaries, the Logar, the Ghorband and the
Punjshair. It is relatively flat country and, beginning from the Logar
Valley, it stretches northwards through the Kabul Valley and the Kohda-
man Valley up to the Kohistan Valiey. But it is bounded on the north
by the lofty range of the Hindukush, which forms a natural barrier the
migrants have to meet in crossing Afghanistan. It is a western offshoot
of the Himalayas, stretching westwards from Pamir to Bamian where it
breaks up into several almost parallel branches. It rises far in the region
of perpetual snow but has certain points along it less high, forming many
passes of which one, the Perwan Pass (at present known as the Salung
4
50 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HiSt. SOCIEDY, Volewo3
Pass), has a great importance in connection with the migration of
birds.
The head of the Salung Pass is the source of two opposite flowing
rivers, the Khinjan and the Perwan (at present known as the Jubbal-us-
siraj River). The former, flowing down its northern slope, joins its
tributary the Andrab, and a little farther the Ballola or Bamian River, and
then becomes the Kunduz River which flows further northwards into the
Oxus. Thus it forms to some extent a flight line, as it may be called,
beyond the Hindukush. The Jubbal-us-siraj flowing down the southern
slope joins its tributary the Ghorband River, and a little farther the Punj-
shair River. Farther beyond the Kohistan Valley it joins the Kabul
River which afterwards flows eastwards into the Indus. Thus an almost
continuous waterway is present over the Hindukush at the Salung Pass.
This pass provides the shortest route into Afghan Turkestan and lies
just in front of and along the flight line from the head of the Kurram
Valley and along the Logar River. Sultan Baber remarks : ‘(The Perwan
Pass)... is the grand pass up the Hindukush, and there is no other
pass but itseif in this vicinity. Onthat account all the game ascends the
mountain by this route’. Incidentally it is interesting to note that the
remarks of Whitehead regarding the Kurram Valley are almost identical
with those of Sultan Baber regarding the Salung Valley made about five
hundred years earlier.
Just as the birds, during their northward journey before ascending the
Kurram Pass, make a halt on their way at Bannu in the open, similarly
before ascending the Salung Pass they make a halt at Bagram, anc every
one who has visited the place at the appropriate time has been struck by
the great abundance of birds there. It is quite possible that birds coming
up from the southeast along the Kabul River, and those coming up
through the Gomal Pass, may be further added to the number arrived
from the south through the Kurram Pass. Thus large flocks of duck,
teal, lapwings, herons, pelicans, etc., come and make a halt at
Bagram. Alexander Burns made ‘a collection of no less than forty-five
different species of ducks, and it was quite evident,’ he says, ‘that many
additions might have been made’. Tamerlane on his way to India,
finding immense numbers of birds, took back with him fowlers from
Multan on his return journey. They were installed in about two or three
hundred houses and were called slave-fowlers. There is still a village -
near Bagram which is known as Syyadan (= fowlers,) and mostly inhabit-
ed by them.
Leaving Bagram aside let us look over the whole of the upper basin
of the Kabul River. In addition to rivers there are places here and there
where in early spring snow-water accumulates forming large shallow
lakes. There are two or three such lakes or marshes about Kabul City
which ate the resort of immense numbers of aquatic birds. It is for this
reason that the inhabitants, from ancient times, are fond of game and
skilful in fowling. Formerly they used to catch big birds by means of
springs. A long cord was wound on a stick with a cross handle of horn
at one end and a double-pointed arrow at the other. At night when the
birds fly low, the stick was taken out and the cordage was thrown over
the bird. The cord winding over the neck, wing or leg used to bring the
bird down.* ‘The practice does not seem to exist toaey.
+ This description is somewhat obscure. (Presumably some foun er poles a
BIRD MIGRATION AND FOWLING IN AFGHANISTAN 51
At some places on the Hindukush there are, however, some detached
oval ponds specially constructed for catching wild geese and ducks. The
plan adopted, though crude, is unique in its way. By the aid of narrow
dug trenches or channels, water from the running stream ts let into the
ponds and turned off when full. The pond is surrounded by a stone
wall high enough to allow a man to crouch behind unobserved. Over
and across one-half or less of this pond a rough trellis-work of thin
willow branches is put up. ‘The birds on alighting are gradually driven
under this canopy and a sudden rush is made by those on the watch. In
this manner hundreds of birds are caught daily during the season.
In the valleys of Kohdaman and Kohistan another method is adopted
for catching ducks. A small hut, covered with reeds ete. is built over a
water channel leading off from the main river or the lake on which the
birds gather. At night when the ducks are floating about in sleep, the
fowler enters the hut and, opening a sluice-gate that divides off the waier
of the river or lake, strikes a light inside and awaits the ducks. They
drift in on the current one by one through the narrow opening and are at
once seized by the neck and made halal—killed according to Islamic
Jaw. In this manner a couple of men can easily secure from a hundred
and fifty to two hundred ducks in a single night.
Coots are resident and common in the country. They are caught by
means of nets stretched across the channels in the reed-beds. ‘These
nets are hung on sticks fixed in the mud, the iower edge being in the
water, the upper edge above the surface. The flocks are driven into the
nets with the aid of rafts.
With the introduction of fire-arms bird-shooting has become a favourite
sport and great havoc is done annually. The rivers and lakes are fringed
with shooting boxes —little loop-holed mud-huts built on the edge of the
water. Near them are placed many decoy-ducks, dead ones whose
bodies are stuffed and attached to sticks fixed in the water. Sometimes
they are anchored in their proper position by stones tied to their feet
with pieces: of cord that reach the bottom. ‘The decoy-ducks whichare
locally called maulay, are so skilfully arranged on the sides of the water
that once Alexander Burns, seeing plenty of ducks in the river at Bagram,
fired at them, when to his great surprise he found they were but decoys!
Often they are arranged in a straight line along the edge of a river or a
lake. At night when the fowler finds a bird on either side out of the line
he fires atit. ‘The decoy ducks are meant to deceive their fellow birds
and they often serve their purpose admirably.
Sometimes another method is employed to counteract the shyness of
the birds. ‘Two men with shot-guns creep behind a bullock driven
towards the fowls, and when within range fire leisurely over the animal’s
back at them.
Early in the spring, when the trees are still deveid of leaves, the
inhabitants of Kohdaman or Kohistan fix mazwlays to the branches of
mulberry trees. These are not stuffed birds but are simply pieces of half-
burnt wood. Birds like the starling etc. taking them for their fellow birds
descend on the trees where they are easily shot from cover.
Not only are aquatic birds in abundance but other birds like larks,
pipits, wagtails etc. are also plentiful during the spring season, hence
several kinds of raptorial birds are trapped and trained for falconry. The
principal kinds are Baz (?Goshawk, Accipiter gentilis) Charagh or
Charagh falcon (falco cherrug) and Shahin or Peregrine falcon
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Or
Le)
(F. peregrinus) etc. Of these the Baz is the most esteemed and is taught
to soar over the falconer’s head and strike the quarry as it rises in the air.
Large flocks of Wrynecks, Bluethroats and Pastors arrive in April and
May. Vigne has noticed large flocks of Rosy Pastor entering Afghanistan
by the Gomal Pass on 27th April. These birds were knocked over by
pellet-bows. The bows were made of bamboo and the round pellets were
of clay baked in the sun, but now the pellet-bow is nowhere to be seen
in the country.
Sparrows are knocked over by means of foofak or blow-pipe which is
a bored wooden stick about a yard long, its hole not being more than
half a centimetre in diameter. A small pill of moist clay is put in*at one
end and from the other it is blown forcibly by mouth at the bird nearby.
But catapults are common and boys are generally seen wandering about
with them. They are charged with small gravel to which small birds
fall easy victims.
As soon as the quails are ‘in’, every boy and man turns out with a
long thin willow-rod at one end of which there is a horse-hair noose.
When a quail is seen crouching under a stone the noose is slowly slipped
over its neck and jerked up. Sometimes horse—hair nooses are fastened
to lumps of clay which are then scattered around the borders of the fields
where the birds are accustomed to run about.
Sparrows, quails and other small birds are caught in large numbers
by means of nets thrown over standing corn. Sparrows are said to be
caught in such immense numbers in Kohistan that even a widow
having nobody to take care of her gets enough birds for one meal at least
once a season! The feathers are plucked and the birds are minced flesh
and bone together. The dish is greatly relished by the people, and
thought to be a kind of tonic, especially for the malesex. All birds that
are not consumed locally are brought down to Kabul and sold by the
basketful in the markets, as are also all other kinds of birds.‘ In early
spring villagers are seen in the early morning coming towards the town with
duck, teal, coots etc. hanging by their legs from both hands. . Teal are,
perhaps, the earliest to arrive as they are seen in the beginning of February
when there is no other bird available. If the previous night has been
cloudy or rainy the game is more plentiful in the markets... On such
days especially, storks, cranes, herons, spoonbills etc. in singles, and snipe,
duck, avocets, stilts, coots, teal, grebes and other species in fives, tens or
twenties, are seen hanging up for sale in poulterer’s shops. From all of
which it is evident that passage migrants have to pay a heavy toll in
crossing over this country.
REFERENCES
Rellew, H. W. (1862) : Journal of a Political Mission to Afghanistan in 1857,
pp. 294, 402,
Burns, Alexander (1842) : Cabool p. 162.
Gray, J. (1946) : Migration of Vertebrate Animals. Andeavour 5 : 87.
1 In a letter Dr. Akhtar informs us that not only sparrows, but a@// small birds
that fly in flocks, irrespective of species, are netted and sold in bulk in this manner,
particularly starlings (Rosy?) and wagtails of several species. On an ornitho-
logical trip to N. Afghanistan in 1937 (with Col. R. Meinertzhagen) Mr, Sdélim Ali
observed heaping basketfuls of Short-toed Larks (Calandrella acutirostris)—with
their throats neatly cut in the approved Islamic way —hawked about for sale in the
weekly bazaars.—EDbs.
BIRD MIGRATION AND. FOWLING IN AFGHANISTAN 53
Leyden, J. and Erskine, W. (1826): Memoirs of Zehirudin Mohammed Baber,
Emperor of Hindustan, pp. 151, 153.
Masson, Charles (1844): Balochistan, Afghanistan, the Punjab and Kelat. Vol.
Ill, pp. 6-7.
McNair, W. W. (1884) : A Visit to Kaffiristan.. Proc. Roy. Geog. Soc. VI. 9.
Meinertzhagen, R. (1938) : On the Birds of Northern Afghanistan. /é7s ser. 14.
It. 3: 485, 487.
Vigne, G. T. (1840): A Personal Narrative of a Visit to Ghazni, Kabul and
Afghanistan p. 44.
Whistler, Hugh. (1945): Material for the Ornithology of
JBNAS, 45: 470.
Whitehead, C. H. T. (1909) : Onthe Birds of Kohat and the Kurram Valley.
Northern India. JBNA’S, 20 ;: 173-174.
Afghanistan.
A NEW POLYGALA FROM SOUTH INDIA
BY
S. K. MUKERJEE
Indian Botanic .Garden, Calcutta
(With a plate)
In Prodromus Florae Peninsulae Indiae Orientalis 1: 38, 1834, Wight
and Arnott described 14 species of Polygala. One of these they design-
ated as P. ciliata Linn. But P. czliata of Linnaeus had been found to be a
species of Salomonia and therefore, it was named as SS. czlzata (L.) DC. in
DeCandolle’s Prodromus Regni Vegetabilis 1: 334, 1824, and the
binomial—P. cz/iata Linn. was put as a synonym to S. cz/zafa. But the
species described as P. ciliata by Wight and Arnott was, however, found
to be a true Polygala and different from P. czliata Linn, i.e., S. cdlzata (L.)
DC. SoS. T. Dunn gave a new name to Wight and Arnott’s species
and called it P. dolbothrix Dunn in Kew Bull. 1916: 63, 1916.
Wight and Arnott mentioned two varieties of their P. czliata, viz. var.
< and var. 8. Under var. & they quoted Wallich’s No. 4177 and under
var. 8 they quoted W. Roxburgh’s coloured plate No. 675 of P.- arvensis
Willd. This, however, is a figure of P. chinensis Linn. Therefore,
P. ciliata W. and A. var. & is P. bolbothrix, and Wallich’s No. 4177
becomes the type sheet.
While examining the sheets of Polygala in the Calcutta Herbarium the
writer has come across a few sheets markedas P. delbothrix Dunn. Among
these are two sheets bearing Wallichian number 4177. Other sheets
matching exactly with these 2 sheets are : Fischer No. 157a from
Nerinjipet-Coimbatore, Fischer No. 2187 from Muttipulao Ghat, Coimba-
tore, and Fischer No. 3480 from Tekkadi, Malabar. In addition to those
mentioned above there are a few more, named similarly, but appearing
distinct because of being densely hispid all over with long spreading hairs.
These are larger and much branched specimens, and have smaller and
thicker leaves and smaller flowers. These differ from P. dolbothrix and
doubtlessly represent a new and hitherto undescribed species.
This species comes close also to another, viz. P. Azrsutula Arn. a
Ceylon plant. Of P. hzrsutula there are the following sheets in the
Calcutta Herbarium, viz. : Thwaites C P. No. 1081 (2 sheets) ; Thwaites,
Ceylon, without precise locality and without number ; and T. Thomson,
Ceylon, without precise locality and without number. In P. hirsutula
the hairs are small and decurved, the flowers are larger and the petals
longer than the wing-sepals. ‘The raceme is erect while in P. bolbothrix
and the new species it is more or less horizontal.
The sheets of this new species in Herb. Cal. were examined by W. W.
Smith, M. S. Ramaswami and P. Debbarman, and from the remarks made
by them on the sheets and on the covers, it appears that they also consider-
ed that these were specimens of a new species or variety. ‘The sheets were
sent to Kew for confirmation where these were named by Dunn himself as
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
POLYGALA RAMASWAMIANA
(A) a portion of the plant (x 1).
(B) a flower (x 5).
(C) sepals (x 5 ).
(D) carina (x 5 ).
(E) immature fruit (x 2).
A NEW POLYGALA FROM SOUTH INDIA 55
his P. bolbothrix. Considering that Dunn only renamed an earlier described
species, it is perhaps possible that he did not examine critically Wight
and Arnott’s P. cz/zata and, therefore, named the sheets from. Calcutta as
P. bolbothrix, which these resemble to some extent. Depending upon
Wallich’s No. 4177, of which there are 2 sheets in Herb. Cal. it now
becomes possible to study the distinguishing characters separating this
from P. bolbothrix. Ramaswami prepared a nice sketch of the flower
and its parts. The sketch is preserved in this Herbarium along with the
dissected parts of the flower. These have been very helpful and I
dedicate the species in his honour and call it P. rvamaswamiana.
Among these sheets, however, some difference is noticed in the leaves.
One sheet with smaller leaves and shorter racemes was named by Dunn
as P. bolbothrix with a question mark. ‘This, I believe, is a distinct
variety of the new species which also has a distinct form as is evident
from the difference in the shape of leaves in different specimens. The
species with its form and variety is described below.
Polygala ramaswamiana Mukerjee sp. nov.
Accedit ad P. 6dolbotricem Dunn structura et aspectu generali, ab ea
tamen differt inter alia in eo quod nova species est dense hispida, eiusque
folia sunt minora atque marginibus revolutis et nervo medio in superiore
pagina depresso, in inferiore vero prominenti ornata.
Flerba diffuse ramosissima e basi; rami tenues, teretes infra, angulares
supra, dense vestiti pilis longis patentibus simul atque pilis brevibus
adpressis ; rami ascendentes vel erecti, usque 36cm. alti. /o/za simplicia,
carnosa, alterna, obovata vel elliptica vel lineari-oblonga, rotundata atque
saepe breviter emarginata ad apicem, angustata ad basim in petiolum
brevissimum, marginibus integris, revolutis, hispida in utraque pagina pilis
longis patentibus, hispidiora ad margines, qui sunt hispidi brevibus pilis
adpressisque ; nervus medius depressus in Superiore pagina, prominens
in inferiore, lamina 8-18 mm. longa, 4-8 mm. lata. Aacemz usque ad
8 cm. longi, tenues, horizontales, laxiflori, vel ad apicem densiflori,
hispidi longis adpressis pilis, atque hirsuti brevibus pilis adpressis ;
bracteae binae singulos pedicellos supportant; bracteae 1 mm. longae,
deltoideo-lanceolatae, acuminatae, hispidae; pedicelli 3-4 mm. longi;
flores purpurei. Sesala 5, hispida pilis longis, setacea vel rostrata ad
apicem, persistentia; 3 exteriora quidem lanceolata, 1:5 mm. longa; 2
interiora alata, ovata, obliqua 4 mm. longa, 2 min. lata, angustata ad
utrumque apicem, marginibus membranaceis. /etala 3, unguiculata, ad
basim adnata columnae staminali; petala lateralia orbiculari-oblonga, °
emarginata; inferius petalum carinatum, ad apicem bilcbum, lobis
cristatis. Stamzna@ 8, filamenta unita infra in vaginam, antherae dehiscent
per poros terminales. Ovarium orbiculare, compressum, 2-cellulatum ;
ovula singula in singulis cellulis, pendula. Fructus capsularis, late
oblongus, compressus, longitudinaliter sulcatus in medio, apice emargin-
ato, margine dense ciliato pilis longis, haud alatus, 3 mm. longus.
Semina 2 mm. longa, nigra, levia, oblonga, obtuse truncata ad apicem,
tenuiter angustata ad basim, dense operta longis pilis atque albis, caruncu-
lata ad basim ; carunculus luteus, 3-appendiculatus.
S. India : Peermade, A. Meebold No. 12858 (Type in Herb. Cal.) ;
Without precise locality, A. Meebold No. 13066; Shembaganur, Rev. L,
Anglade No, 1859. (per errorem Auglady).
56 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Forma devicolamensis f. nov. .
Folia anguste oblonga vel lineari-oblonga, flores minoresparvi.
S. India: Devicolam, A. Meebold No. 13185 (Type in Herb. Cal.)
Var. palniensis var. nov.
Foliis minoribus, ellipticis vel oblongis nonnumquam lineari-oblongis,
racemis brevissimis, floribus minoribus a typo recedit.
Folia 5-11 mm. longa, 2-4 mm. lata, apice rotundata vel obtusa.
Racemi usque ad 1°5 cm. longi, pedicelli 2 mm. longi. Flores parvi (?),
sepala aliformia 3 mm. longa.
S. India: Kilavare, Upper Palnis, 2,000 mtr., 20-9-1911, C.E.C.
Fischer No. 3026 (Holotype in Herb. Cal.).
(I am indebted to Rev. H. Santapau for kindly rendering the deserip-
tions into Latin.—S.K.M.)
MORE NOTES ON THE BIRDS OF THE
NEPAL VALLEY
BY
DESIREE PRouD
The following notes are additions and corrections to the lists of birds I
published in the jowrnzal.t Since the lists were made we have lived more
than 6 years in the Valley, and all possible weekends (alas too few!) are
spent camping on Sheopuri or Godavari. During the monsoon of course
such camps are not possible because of the leeches, but during the rest of
the year we are out as much as possible. I have also collected birds,
particularly willow-warblers and wagtails, both of which are a fascinating
study here owing to the numbers of different races which pass through on
the migrations.
I have kept careful records of the song periods of the Vailey birds and
prepared a chart of these, after the model of those prepared by Mr. H. G.
Alexander and published in the ‘Handbook of British Birds’. I have found
these very valuable in England, and consider it would be a good idea if
readers would send in similar charts for different parts of India.
I append charts of arrival and departure dates for the various migrant
birds of the Valley.
The building of a motor road to India has opened up new country,
particularly sugar cane fields at about 3,000 ft. This has added new birds
to my list. I look forward to the time when the road will be completed
and the terai with its swarming bird population within a few hours’ drive
by car.
Parus major nipalensis (Hodgson) : Nepal Grey Tit.
Though not normally found in the valley occasionally there is an
invasion of these birds, and I saw a number during the winter of ’5], and
during March and April of both ’52 and ’53.
Parus spilonotus Blyth: Blackspotted Yellow Tit.
My previous record of this bird must have been a mistake. I have
never seen it since.
Syiviparus modestus Burton: Yellow-browed Tit.
These little tits are very common on the hills about 7—9,000 ft. They
are acrobatic as all tits. They seem to feed almost entirely on the pupae
of the Zortrzx moth or something similar which are found in the curled-up
leaves all over the trees here. I have watched them collecting hundreds
from infested leaves, and they must do a great deal of good. In appearance
and habits they are very like a phylloscopus, and have a thin shrill zee-z2
zec-2t zee-zt note uttered endlessly in April. For the rest of the year they
are rather silent.
1 «Some notes on Bitds of the Nepal Valley ’, /BNA‘S, 48 : 695-719 , ‘ More Bird
Notes from Nepal Valley.’ J/BNAS, 49 : 784-5,
-
58 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Garrulax caerulatus (Hodgson): Greysided Laughing-Thrush.
I have found this bird really very common on Sheopuri and Phul
Chok, at 8,000 ft. and above, in summer. They make a great disturbance
when feeding on the ground, hurling earth and dead ‘eaves in all directions
with the vigour of a puppy digging for rats. They have a delightful liquid
whistle. In winter they are found at Godavari.
Garrulax rufogularis (Gould): Rufouschinned Laughing-Thrush.
Uncommon but found sparingly all over the lower hills up to 6,000 ft.
It has a very beautiful whistle. Found both in dense jungle and thin
scrub at such places as Phar Ping.
Garrulax striatus Vigors : Striated Laughing-Thrush.
One of the commonest of the laughing-thrushes but only in dense
jungle. At Pokhara they were very common up to 8,500 ft. They are
often found at fruiting trees in company with green and Speckled Wood
Pigeons.
Stachyris nigriceps Blyth : Blackthroated Babbler.
Rather scarce, but small flocks often seen at Godavari. I have not yet
succeeded in getting a specimen. The call is peculiar, a single note followed
by a trill which sounds like a small bell being rung faster and faster, then
stopping abruptly.
Stachyris chrysaea Blyth : Goldenheaded Babbler.
We found this bird at Pokhara at 8,000 ft., but have not seen one in the
Valley.
Pellorneum ruficeps Swainson : Spotted Babbler.
Very common in the terai; | have found them scarce in the Valley,
though seen occasionally in Goucher woods during the monsoon and all
the year on the lower slopes of Nagar Jung.
Alcippe castaneiceps (Hodgson) : Chestnut-headed Babbler.
I previously recorded this little babbler as scarce which it certainly is
not. On the higher parts of Sheopuri, Phul Chok and the inner hills from
7-9,000 ft. it is very common indeed. It has a rather distinctive churring
purr, which can be very soft, or loud and harsh.
Pnoepyga pusilla Hodgson : Lesser Scalybellied Wren-Babbler.
These tiny wrens are common in the Valley especially in dense scrub on
steep hillsides. 1 had spent much time watching them but always failed
to get aspecimen. ‘They have a maddening habit of appearing just under
one’s feet, where to shoot would be to blow them to pieces. They thsn
dash into dense cover and remain invisible though the moving leaves all
round them give away their presence. Dr. Fleming very kindly gave me
a specimen which he shot at 8,000 ft. on Phulchok. They are common
at Godavari and Nagar Jung, at about 5,000 ft. and upto 8,000.
Pnoepyga albiventer Kinnear : Larger Scalybreasted Wren-Babbler.
This iittle bird is, I think, much scarcer than the last and found mostly
at higher elevations. Like the last species I had failed to get a specimen,
but was able to examine a couple shot by Dr. Fleming high on Phulchok,
BIRDS OF FHE NEPAL VALLEY 59
one golden, the other white-breasted. The colour of the underparts is
difficult to see in the field, but I think the bird with a white breast is the
commoner variety here.
Siva strigula Hodgson : Stripethroated Siva.
Abundant all over the hills from 6~-11,000 ft. Down to the Valley in
winter. The display of this bird in spring is most amusing to watch. I
have not seen it described anywhere so include it here. The birds collect
into flocks of anything from 15 to 50 birds, and these break up into pairs,
but the pairs all remain together in the same tree. The 2 birds of each
pair sit very close together, tails on opposite sides of the branch and
separated by at least 6 inches from the next pair. They then alternately
bow and stretch their heads and necks up to the fullest extent, the feathers
of the head and neck fluffed out. They frequently reverse their positions
on the branch, and both birds always do this at the same instant as if at
a signal so that they never both have their tails the same side of the branch
even for a second. The whole thing is like an elaborate dance and will
continue for an hour or more without a break. Each pair normally take
no notice of any other birds in the tree, but I have occasionally seen one
bird leave its partner and commence to bow to the nearest bird of the next
pair, this leads to much scuffling and disturbance but the pairs soon
re-form, although whether in the original order Iam not quite sure. If
one pair should leave the tree and fly off all the others follow and the
whole thing starts again in another tree, though this is sometimes the
signal for the whole thing to break up. A\jll the time this is going on the
birds keep up a continual churring note with an occasional sweet whistle.
It can be quite deafening when a large number are displaying close to
one. The song proper, a sweet 3-syllable whistle, is not heard during the
display in fact not until the birds have separated into pairs in preparation
for nest building. I have seen this display take place on Sheopuri at
8,000 ft. in April and on the Gandak-Kosi watershed at 11,000 ft. in May.
The one essential seems to be a large population of these birds. 8 pairs is
the smailest number I have seen doing it. Where they are few, the pairs
seem to form without any fuss.
Siva ignotincta (Hodgson) : Redtailed Minla.
Scarce but found sparingly on Sheopuri above 7,000 ft. insummer. In
breeding condition in May.
Cutia nipalensis Hodgson : Nepal Cutia.
Commoner than I at first thought. They keep much to the lanuginosa
forest, where they range round the hillsides keeping to the same elevation,
about 7,000 ft.
Pteruthius melanotis melanotis Hodgson : Chestnut-throated Shrike
babbler.
This bird also is commoner than I used to think. It is usually solitary
in a large flock of tits, phylloscopi and particularly of Bluewinged Sivas.
I have never seen more than one bird in a flock of probably 30 to 50
Other individuals. I think they breed on the ridges at 7-8,000 ft., where I
have seen them in April and May, but spend the winters in such places as
Godavari at 5,000 ft. Never away from forest.
60 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATRURAE UST. SO CLE Y.. Volos
Pteruthius xanthochloris Gray : Green Shrike-babbler.
This bird also is commoner than I had thought. The first one [ saw was
shot by Dr. Fleming. Since then I have seen a number, but they are
very silent and unobtrusive, creeping about in dense jungle. They often
perch along a branch instead of across it. I have never heard them utter
a sound. Mostly at about 7—8,000 ft. throughout the year.
Aegithinia tiphia (L.): Tora.
I had previously recorded this bird as a monsoon visitor, Although
this is correct for the Goucher area where I had previously observed them,
they are found along the south side of Nagar Jung in Simal trees (Bombox)
as early as March.
Cinclus pallasii (Temminck): Brown Dipper.
These birds breed each year on the stream near the dam at Sundarijal.
This year the nest was under the fall of: water from the dam. When the
water was flowing the parent birds had to fly through a curtain of water to
reach the nest. When the reservoir was not full and the water was turned
off, a good view of the nest was obtained. 1 much enjoyed watching the
young birds leaving the nest on the 17th February.
Luscinia brunnea (Hodgson): Indian Blue Chat.
Numbers of these birds nest on Sheopuri at 8,400 ft. They are in full
song by the 28th April. They were still singing, though not nearly so
much, on the 28th June.
Luscinia suecica (L.): Bluethroat.
I had previously recorded this bird as a passage migrant. They
are certainly very common on passage, but a few remain throughout the
winter in the Valley. They are particularly partial to bean fields.
Luscinia pectoralis Gould: Himalayan Rubythroat.
Occasionally seen on passage and a few may remain throughout the
winter, as the Common Rubythroat does.
Phoenicurus ochruros (S. G. Gmelin): Black Redstart.
These go through rapidly on the spring migration. On 19-4-52 during
an afternoon’s ride through the fields I must have seen half a dozen indivi-
duals. Next day there were none. Some years I never see any.
Muscisylvia leucura Hodgson: Whitetailed Blue Robin.
In April and May these birds breed at about 8,900 ft. on Sheopuri.
Generally near a stream, and always found in the same areas. I have not
found a nest.
Saxicola caprata bicolor Sykes: Pied Bushchat.
Not usually seen in the Valley, but in 1953 I saw several birds on some
bare eroded cliffs at the foot of Sheopuri. They are very common along
the new road as soon as one drops to 3,000 ft.
Rhodophila ferrea (Gray): Grey Bushchat.
Much commoner than J had supposed. Breeds on Sheopuri above
8,000 ft, and on all the inner ranges North of the Valley. Itis one of the
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY 81
earliest birds to sing in the morning, often heard before 4a.m. By May
24th many had newly-fledged young sitting about, speckled and lumpy, on
low branches. Others were still feeding young in the nest.
Turdus m. albocinctus Royle: Whitecollared blackbird.
I think that none of these birds remain to breed on Sheopuri or Phul-
chok or anywhere below 10,000 ft. Very common in March; I have seen
none after the 4th April.
Turdus rubrocanus Gray : Greyheaded Thrush.
Very uncommon here. I have seen them only twice at about 7,000 ft.
in winter. On the other hand they were common on the hills north of
Pokhara.
Oreocincla mollissima Blyth: Plainbacked Mountain Thrush.
Quite common during the winter, mostly on the ridges where I have
seen it at 8,000 ft. in coldest weather with snow on the ground, but it
occasionally comes down to 5,000 ft. at Godavari. This I think is the
thrush which breeds and sings at 12,000 ft. on the Gandak-Kosi watershed.
Monticola cinclorhyncha (Vigors) : Blueheaded Rock Thrush.
Not a passage migrant as I had previously thought, but a summer
visitor breeding on Nagar Jang and in a few other places, but rather local.
Young birds are seen all over the south side of Nagar Jung from about
the end of June.
Prunella strophiata (Blyth): Rufousbreasted Accentor.
A few birds seen each year on the ridges north of the Valley at about
7,000 ft. On the inner hills north of the Sheopuri lekh they are very com-
mon in winter, and breed at 12,000 ft. on the same hills.
Siphia parva hyperythra (Cabanis) : Kashmir Redbreasted Flycatcher
This flycatcher with black bands bordering the red breast was seen
once in my garden on April 10th 1953. I am surprised to find one so far
east on the migration.
Siphia parva albicilla (Pallas): Eastern Redbreasted Flycatcher.
Winters in large numbers in the Valley. I am puzzled over the reason
why birds with red breasts are seen only in spring during the migration.
I read that Mr. Betts found the same thing as stated in his ‘ Birds of
Coorg’. In the Nilgiris I have seen red-breasted birds all winter ; perhaps
the western race. This year I did in fact see a bird with a very red throat
at Godavari on 30th Jan., but this is the only one seen during 6 winters
here. I have also seen very few during the autumn migration. Where do
the adult males winter ?
Hemichelidon cinereiceps (Hodgson): Ferruginous Flycatcher.
Scarce but seen a few times at about 8,000 ft. A breeding male was
shot at that height on Sheopuri on May 17th.
Muscicapa amabilis (Deignan): Rustybreasted Flycatcher.
A fairly common bird during the winter and early spring. Sir Norman
Kinnear tells me that males frequently breed in female plumage and
certainly one sees a dozen ‘ femaies ’ for one adult-plumaged male.
62 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HiST. SOGIUGING. Wat, 553
Muscicapa hyperythra (Blyth): Whitefronted Blue Flycatcher.
Much commoner than I had at first supposed. They arrive towards
the end of April and move up into the hills at 7-8,000 ft. Last year we
found a nest. Both parents were building on April 25. The nest was
built into a lump of moss suspended from a tree about 20 ft. from the
ground, and so looked like a hanging nest with a dome. I should think
this must be an unusual situation. We only saw the female incubating,
but did not have time to watch for long. Both parents were feeding young
on the 26th May. The 2 young birds had their heads sticking out of the
hole. They had a very mealy appearance, and one—I suppose a young
male—already had a very distinct white bar across the front of his face.
Nitidula hodgsoni (Moore): Pigmy Flycatcher.
Rather scarce, but as it keeps to dense forest and is very unobtrusive,
it may well be often overlooked. I have only seen them from Phulchok
at about 7—8,000 ft. in summer, down to valley level in winter. They are
sometimes in mixed flocks with phylloscopi.
Muscicapula leucomelanura (Hodgson): Slatyblue Flycatcher.
Muscicapula tricolor. Since the opening of the new road we have found
these flycatchers common in winter in the sugar cane fields at 3,000 ft. or
so. In summer they are much more sparingly distributed in the higher
hills,
Niltava sundara (Hodgson): Rufousbellied Niltava.
Quite common in thick jungle in summer, in more open country in
winter. Ihave heard it utter a sqeaky grating song, certainly not a fine
song. It is much like that of the Small Niltava (V. macgrigori@) also
common here. The Large Niltava (VV. grandis) although found in deep
forest on very steep hillsides is much the rarest of the three.
Pericrocotus ethologus (Bangs & Phillips): Longtailed Minivet.
All birds that I have shot have been of this species. I do not know it
the Shortbilled Minivet (P. dvevirostris) is found here also.
Pericrocotus flammeus (Forster): Orange Minivet.
Quite a common bird from 5-9,000 ft. but only in forest. It does not
fly through the gardens of the Valley as the last species does.
Dicrurus aeneus (Vieillot) : Bronzed Drongo.
This drongo is common on Nagar Jung, but | have seen it nowhere
else. It is not found above about 5,000 ft. They are very active spritely
birds, and it is a joy to watch them with their brilliant iridescent plumage
flashing in the sun as they dive and swoop through the jungle.
Phylloscopus aifinis (Tickell) : Tickell’s Willow- Warbler.
Common passage migrant during March-April, and September. Only
on hills ; I have not seen it in the Valley.
Phylloscopus pulcher Blyth : Orangebarred Willow-Warbler.
Common on the high hills, especially in Owercus semecarpiftolia forest
from October to March. In very cold weather they come down to the
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY 63
Valley at 5,000 ft. where there is forest. They move on to the higher
inner hills above 9,500 ft. at the end of March and first week of April. I
do not think any remain to breed on Sheopuri and Phulchok.
Phylloscopus inornatus inornatus (Blyth): Yellowbrowed Willow-
Warbler.
Not very common, but a fair number pass through in the autumn and
spring. I have obtained them in October-November and end March-
April. They can be distinguished sometimes in the field by their notes.
Although they utter the double chee-wee like humez, they have also a
single note whee? as described by Dr. Ticehurst, and this is uttered fre-
quently enough to be a good field character. I have never heard this bird
or humez utter any song.
Phylloscopus inornatus humei (Brooks) : Hume’s Willow-Warbler.
The common willow-warbler of the Valley in winter ; abundant in every
sort of country except deep forest. They arrive in October and spread all
over the Valley in every garden and clump of trees, and on the open
hillsides up to 7,000 ft. there seems to be a bird in every isolated bush or
tree. They remain till the end of April.
Phylloscopus proregulus chloronotus (Gray) : Yellowrumped Willow-
Warbler.
Very common in winter in the valley, and I have found fair numbers
in breeding condition on the ridges round the Valley at 7-9,000 ft. at the
end of May, so I have no doubt they breed here and move down to valley
level in winter. They appear in the Godavari forest at the end of October
and leave by the 12th of April, but they do not come into our gardens
until November. They are always in little flocks during the winter. They
commence their feeble but pieasing little tinkling song in the middle of
February and continue to sing until at least the end of May.
Phylloscopus maculipennis (Blyth) : Greyfaced Willow-Warbler.
These birds also breed on the ridges round the Valley as we have
found them there in breeding condition on 28th May and my husband
shot one on 28th June, 8,000 ft. They come down to the Valley in
winter and are then fairly common at Sundarijal and Godavari. ‘They
do not come into gardens and are not found much below 5,000 ft.
Phyloscopus magnirostris Biyth: Largebilled Willow-Warbler.
We have shot this bird in breeding condition on Sheopuri in forest at
the end of April, but I have only seen one or two, and they might still be
on migration for higher hills. We did not find them on the Gandak-Kosi
watershed in May. In August they appear in large numbers in the gardens
of the Valley and remain there for about a month. Their unmistakable
note is then heard every morning in our garden and they also sometimes
sing a little in September. They are the only willow-warblers seen in the
Valley during the monsoon. I imagine they breed in thick forest on
Sheopuri and Phulchok and move down into the Valley after breeding. I
have never seen or heard them in the Valley in spring, and they cannot. be
easily overlooked with their very striking song. Larliest date in Valley
8th August ; latest September 9th.
64 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Phylloscopus trochiloides trochiloides (Sundevall) : Dull-green Willow-
Warbler.
We found these birds very common on the Gandak-Kosi watershed at
9,500-12,000 ft. Those shot were in breeding condition. Ido not think
any remain to breed on the hills round the Valley, nor are they ever found
in the Valley in winter. I think they must pass through rapidly on mig-
ration as I have only obtained very few then—in our garden 17th and
23rd September and 7th Oct. ; on hills at 7,000 ft. 30th April.
Phyiloscopus trochiloides viridanus Blyth : The Greenish Willow-
Warbler.
This bird is an abundant passage migrant from early March until the
middle of May. During late April and May they sing continuously. I
find the call note indistinguishable from that of P. zxornatus humez, but
I have collected carefully all winter and have never obtained one of these
birds between mid-November and March. They pass through quite
rapidly during the autumn migration and do not linger as in the spring.
Last date 20th May.
Phylloscopus trochiloides ludlowi Whistler.
A single bird shot on Sheopuri at 8,009 ft. on May 31st and in breeding
condition was identified by Sir Norman Kinnear as an intergrade between
this race and P. ¢. trochilo:des. This is the only one I have seen, and
presume a straggler from further west. As it was in forest and fairly low,
it would in any case not overlap with ¢rochilotdes which is not found in
summer below 10,009 ft. and usually in more open country—small bush
type of country.
Phylloscopus trochiloides nitidus Blyth : Green Willow-Warbler.
A very common passage migrant in spring, but never seen in autumn.
They begin to arrive in the Valley in the last days of March, but are not
common till the middle of April, when hundreds go through, all singing
with a bubbling vehemence unusual in willow-warblers on passage. They
are found everywhere, in gardens, orchards, trees along river banks and
on the hills in light jungle to 8,000 ft. at least By the first week of May
most are gone, but I have seen a few on 5th May in our garden. ‘The call
note is indistinguishable from that of other races of the (frochiloides
group, but the song is different and could be easily recognised by anyone
with a good ear.
Phylloscopus reguloides reguloides (Blyth): Blyth’s Willow-Warbler.
A common breeding bird on the hills round the Nepal Valley. They
arrive early in March and are then found from 4,000 ft. but only in dense
forest. By the end of April they are established in their breeding haunts
at about 8,000 ft. and are singing lustily. The song is distinctive—a
continuous little trill of 9 or 10 notes Chi-t7-chi-ti-cht-ti-cht-tt-chee. Some-
times the last note also is double.
I have never obtained a specimen of P. subaffinis collected here by
Dr. Ripley, but have seen what I believe io be this bird on Nagar Jung
and at Godavari in April and November. I may possibly be confusing it
with affinzs.
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY 65
Seicercus poliogenys (Blyth) : Greycheeked Flycatcher-Warbler.
Very scarce. A few seenin our garden during November amongst
other warblers.
S. castaneiceps (Gray). Chestnutheaded Flycatcher-Warbler.
Not very common but odd ones are seen in winter at Godavari and
on the hills amongst flocks of willow-warblers, etc. ; also sometimes in our
garden.
Abrornis schisticeps (Hodgson): Blackfaced Flycatcher-Warbler.
Not nearly as uncommon as I had thought, but local. In summer they
are really common on Sheopuri at 7-8,000 ft. where I have frequently seen
them in April and May in small flocks of generally 4 or 5 birds, probably
family parties. Presumably breeding takes place early in the year. They
seem to have an affinity with Sy/vzharus modestus, as these twe species are
nearly always found together. In the winter they form part of the huge
mixed flocks which wander round the hillsides and are sometimes seen at
Godavari. But there are not usually more than 1 or 2 of this species,
and they then seem scarce.
Neornis flavolivaceus Blyth : Aberrant Bush-warbler.
This bird is absolutely abundant round Pokhara at all elevations from
2,500 to 6,000 ft., but I had never seen it in the Valley until the opening of
the new road enabled us to get down to sugar cane fields at 3,000 ft.
There this bird is certainly very common in winter.
Horeites brunnifrons (Hodgson): Rufouscappped Bush-warbier.
This bird breeds on the hills north of the Nepal Valley at 10,000-
12,000 ft. and one would expect it to be common in the Valley in winter,
but I have never found it here, only occasionally on the hills in spring on
passage. On the other hand we found this little bird also very common
round Pokhara at 4,000 ft. in November. I suppose the grass conditions
in the Valley are somehow not right for it.
Prinia criniger criniger (Hodgson) : Brown Hill-warbler.
Very common on grassy hills round the Valley, but local. It is very
common above Pharping and on open siopes of Sheopuri. Inthe monsoon
when the grass is long it breeds on Nagar Jung. ‘They must breed late
as we have seen parents with just-fledged tailless young on October 4th.
Prinia gracilis Franklin : Franklin’s Wren-warbler.
Another species added to my list by the opening of the road. Never
seen in the Valley ; it is abundant in sugar cane at 3,000 ft., below the
Valley.
Tesia cyaniventer Hodgson. Slatybellied Wren.
Once these birds’ habitat is known they are found to be very common.
They frequent the dense low undergrowth round small mountain streams.
running through forest. I have seen them mostly about 5-—6000 ft.
Oligura castaneocoronata (Burton). Chestnut-headed Wren.
Not quite as common as the last species, but found in the same situa:
tions and often in company with it. [ have found it up to 7000 ft. I must
5
66 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL ‘HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
say that from the field naturalist’s point of view these birds seem much
more happily placed with the wrens than with the warblers.
Pyrrhula erythrocephala Vigors : Redheaded Bulifinch.
Small flocks seen on Sheopuri in April and,May at 8,000 ft.
Pyrrhula nipalensis (Hodgson) : Brown Bullfinch.
Common on both Sheopuri and Phulchok in winter andas late as early
May, but I doubt if any remain to breed here.
Spinus tibetanus (Hume): Tibetan Siskin.
This bird must, I think, be extending its range. For the last two years
numbers have been seen in the Vailey. It is however very local, and I
have only seen them at Godavari where they frequent the huge alders
growing by the stream. This year, on 27th and 28th Feb., these trees were
literally swarming with them. and the twittering they made was so loud
that from a distance it sounded almost like starlings going to roost. After
watching them for some time I began to count, the main flock had passed
on, but 1 counted 58 stragglers. ‘There must have been several hundred
birds. I did not see any after the first week in March.
Carpodacus redochrea (Vigors): Pinkbrowed Rosefinch.
Very common on Sheonpuri in winter and early spring when the rhodo-
dendrens are out. I have not seen them below 8,000 ft. They have all
left by the middle of April.
Carpodacus erythrinus (Pallas): Common Rosefinch.
‘+ Very common from March until the middle of May. They swarm in
our garden on the Prunus puddum trees whose fruit is ripe then. Nearly
all are the race evythrinus I think, and have only the upper breast rosy. [
have seen only one bird shot in the Valley with the rosy extending as far
as the abdomen.
Uroloncha striata acuticauda (Hodgson): Hodgson’s Munia.
I had always thought this bird to be a summer visitor only to the
Valley, but this year (’53) large numbers remained in my garden all December
and January. During this time they built huge untidy straw nests in which
numbers roosted at night. On the new road we found them very common
round sugar care fields, so their migrations are obviously only of a very
local nature.
Emberiza aureola Pallas: Yellowbreasted Bunting.
Lhad thought this bird to be a passage migrant only, but find that large
flocks winter in the Valley. ‘They are also very common in fields at 3,000 ft.
along the new road.. They begin to change into breeding dress in the
middle of February and are in full plumage by the middle of March. A
flock of these birds feeding in a ploughed field is a most pleasant sight, the
yellow and brown bodies and flicker of white in the wings gives life to the
winter landscape.
Delichon nipalensis Horsf. & Moore: Nepal Mattin.
Not often seen in the Valley but common over the low grassy passes
in the inner hills. I think they breed on the cliffs above Golbu at 7,000 ft.
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY 67
Ripara paludicola (Vieillot): Sand Martin.
The common Sand Martin of the Valley. ‘The breeding season must
be an extended one as I have seen them flying in and out of the nest-
holes as early as February and as late as May. These holes are in the
mud cliffs which border the river beds, and are often in a crumbling condi-
tion. Some of the holes are very large and are obviously used year after
year. My previous record of Azfaria riparia in the Valley must have
been a mistake.
Motacilla alba L. White Wagtail.
This wagtail is really a fascinating study as no less than 6 races are
found here at various times. I have collected carefully during the last two
years and kept notes of all arrival and departure dates. It is impossible,
I think, to distinguish young birds in the field and even in the hand they
are difficult, but I think I can now spot the adult birds with fair certainty.
The chief difficulty is in winter when the black-backed forms may lose
the black back for a grey one. However, a large proportion retain the black
back and even in those which do not, the grey is distinctly darker in the
black-backed forms. ‘They may sometimes be mistaken in the field, but
are always distinguishable in the hand. The following are the races which
I have observed and collected here. .
M. a. personata Gould : Masked Wagtail.
Certainly the rarest form seen here, a mere straggler on the migrations.
I have not seen above 6 birds in 3 winters.
M. a. ocularis Swinhoe: Streakeyed Wagtail.
Tolerably common on migration. I have only seen one in the autumn,
in October, but they begin to appear in early March, and then for the next
2 months a few are generally seen any day on the river bank in company
with Indian White Wagtails. Earliest date March 12th; latest April 25th.
They can be picked out fairly easily in the field, the dark eye-streak being
clearly seen with glasses in all plumages.
M. a. dukhunensits Sykes. Indian White Wagtail.
Probably the commonest of all the wagtails. Although less common
on sandbanks in the rivers than the 2 black-backed forms, they spread
widely over the ploughed fields and the total population must be enormous.
They start arriving about 22nd September and are common from the 28th
of the month. They are the last to leave in spring, being common to the
30th April, and a few are seen till the 6th of May. During April the
resident birds are augmented by large flocks of passage migrants.
M. a. baicalensis Swinhoe: Swinhoe’s White Wagtail.
This is the most difficult of the white wagtails to distinguish in the
field. With young birds it is impossible, and adults are difficult. I am
much indebted to Mrs. Liushington who examined numbers in the
British Museum and sent me her notes. { have since coilected several
which have been identified as bazcalensis. 'The chief thing to notice is the
greater extent of white in the wing; and the general appearance of the
bird, especially in breeding plumage, is altogether whiter. A few of these
birds winter here, but they become much commoner in spring. For a
68 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
short time in March they are as common in river beds as the White Wag-
tail. They are less common in April and very few are seen after the
20th of the month. Last date 30th April.
M, a. alboides Hodgson: Hodgson’s White Wagtail.
This bird starts arriving on 22nd and 23rd of September and by
the end of the month is abundant all along the river banks. It is not seen
very much away from the rivers, though odd ones are present in ploughed
fields, and numbers will swarm in a flooded area. They are abundant ail
Winter, but start to leave early and the numbers decrease rapidly after
ZOth March, by the end of the month all are gone. Only a single odd
one is seen occasionally during the first fortnight of April. As these birds
breed in the Himalayas I suppose their breeding areas are habitable long
before those which go to the far north.
M. a. leucopsis Gould : Whitefaced Wagtail.
This bird is also extremely common all winter and is the first to arrive,
early birds appearing on 13th Sept., a week before the others. By the 20th
they are abundant and remain so all winter. Like albozdes they leave
early, and by the end of March they are all gone, nor have I ever seen a
single straggler in early April.
Motacilla flava L. Tworaces of this wagtail occur, though not in any-
thing like the numbers of the last species.
M, flava beema (Sykes): Indian Blueheaded Wagtail.
This birdis found in small numbers along the river banks and in fields
all winter. They first arrive about 19th September. ‘They are frequently
seen with White and Yellowheaded Wagtails. About the middle of March
large numbers of passage migrants augment the numbers of wintering
birds, and for about a week they are very common feeding largely in fields
of flowering mustard. ‘They are all gone by the end of the month.
M. flava thunbergi Billberg: Greyheaded Wagtail.
A passage migrant only. This year there were about 30 birds in the
dry bed of the Vishnumati on 29th and 30th April. Only 2 birds seen on
4th May and then no more. My husband was in the terai that week and
he said he saw enormous flocks of these birds along the Kosi River on the
same dates. A few days later he saw only one or two.
Motacilla citreola Pallas: Yellowheaded Wagtail.
Passage migrants, particularly in the autumn when numbers were seen
in the rice fields along the Manora River on 6th September, the first
wagtails to appear. They remained in large numbers throughout the month
and a few were seen during’ the winter. [am not quite sure of the race
although I think it is calcavata ; but I have a few skins and must check
them on my next leave.
Anthus roseatus Blyth: Roseate Pipit.
This pipit breeds in large numbers on the hills above 10,000 ft. north of
the Valley. It is abundant in the Valley all winter and even more so in the
sugarcane fields at lower elevations. It is also very abundant on passage.
Remains until early May.
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALERY | 69
Alauda gulgula Franklin: Little Skylark.
A common winter visitor arriving about Oct. 10th and spreading all
over the ploughed fields. Their rich gurgling chirrup is a pleasant sound
throughout the winter. I have never heard them sing here. They are
cominon till the end of March and flocks were seen roosting in swampy
fields as late as 21st April. On the bare hills north of Sheopuri I saw a
small flock of about 8 birds on the 10th April, possibly on migration.
Aethopyga saturata (Hodgson): Blackbreasted Sunbird.
Quite common at Godavari. ‘They leave for a couple of months in
the coldest weather but are back and singing by the end of February.
Always near forest.
Aethopyga nipalensis (Hodgson) : Nepal Sunbird.
Extremely abundant on ail the ridges round the Valley at 7-9,000 ft.
At first I confused it with Mrs. Gould’s Sunbird, but although in the last
few years I have examined all birds carefully with glasses and seen
numbers shot, I have never seen a specimen of Ae. gouldiae and wonder
if perhaps the 2 species do not occur in the same area? ‘The 4 species
zenicauda, ntpalensis, saturata and sifaraja are all found together in
winter, feeding on flowering Leucosceplrum canum and later Caryopteris,
but gouldiae is never found with them.
Pachyglossa melanozanthum Blyth : Yellowbellied Flowerpecker.
Seen occasionally in our garden and on the lower hills of Nagar Jung,
and Pharping during the winter December to February.
Iynx torquilla L. : Wryneck.
A passage migrant seen in gardens, and particularly in the lines of
willows bordering the rivers, in September, October and March, April.
Cuculus poliocepbhalus Latham : Small Cuckoo.
Common on the ridges about 7,000 ft. and also at Godavari 5,000 ft.
They arrive iate and I have not heard the call, so like a cackling hen,
before the end of April.
Cuculus sparveroides Vigors : Large Hawk-Cuckoo.
This is the cuckco so common at 7—9,0C0O ft. which puzzled us for so
long. The call is much pleasanter than that of the Common Hawk-
Cuckoo, not having the piercing crescendo of the latter bird’s call.
Surniculus lugubris dicruroides (Hodgson): Drongo Cuckoo.
Fairly common in the Valley, but not heard much above 5,000 ft. My
husband found it abundant and calling in the terai in early May, and I
imagine we are on the extreme upper linzit of its range.
Chalcites maculatus (Gmelin) : Emerald Cuckoo.
Seen only once, a small party in our garden on 7th September.
Megalaima haemacephala (Miller): Coppersmith.
I had previously thought this bird to be only a monsoon visitor to the
Valley, but find it is resident wherever banyan trees grow, that is, at Phar-
70 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
ping and at the village of Bara Nil Kanta at the foot of Sheopuri at 5,000 ft.
It is here in the coldest winter.
Coracias benghalensis (L.): Indian Roller.
Never seen in the Valley, but along the new road within a mile of the
edge of the Valley, and less than 1,000 ft. below it is quite common.
Harpactes erythrocephalus (Gould) : Redheaded Trogon.
I found a pair of these lovely birds breeding at about 6,000 ft. up the
Valley to the west of Godavari where a small stream runs through dense
forest.
Ketupa zeylonensis leschenault (Temminck) : Brown Fish-Owl.
Common at Gowkarna. Last year they used to leave the forest and fly
across to the bare slopes of Gowkarna hill at exactly the same time every
evening. During the iast fortnight of August it was 6°45 exactly. Some-
times only one bird, sometimes several, evidently a family party. .We have
also seen them at the foot of Nagar Jung and shot one there on October 4th.
Otus bakkamoena Pennant : Collared Scops Owl.
Common in the Valley. Its soft interrogative Wat? is heard almost
throughout the year. It is very nocturnal and never calls before it is
quite dark. In the light of a torch its eyes look quite red. It is a shy little
bird but is occasionaliy seen by day, fast asleep in some dense shrubbery.
Otus spilocephalus (Blyth) : Spotted Scops Owl.
Common on all the hills where it calls for hours at night. At Goda-
vari we hear it from February onwards. They are commonest from about
6-8,500 ft. The note phew phew rings out all night but ceases before dawn,
and we have never succeeded in actually seeing one. Dr. Fleming obtained
2 on Phulchok by imitating the call and attracting it within range. He
very kindly gave me one.
Glaucidium cuculoides (Vigors) : Barred Owlet.
Very common in jungle and on the edges of it, but never in gardens
in the Valiey. It is particularly common at Godavari and on Nagar Jung.
The tamest of the owls and very diurnal. They do not call at night, but
are very noisy at dawn and for a couple of hours after the sun is up. The
call rather reminds me of a barbet. In winter I have seen them in bright
sunlight catching insects on the ground in a small swamp at Godavari.
Glaucidium brodiei (Burton) : Pigmy Owlet.
Very common indeed on all the hills from 4—9,000 ft. Calls mostly by
day and all day, and throughout the year, June and July being the only
months when I have not heard them. ‘They are not heard in the Valley
away from jungle, although common on the edge of it.
Aquila chrysaétos (L) : Golden Eagle.
Golden Eagles are seen fairly often in the winter, sometimes in pairs
flying over Nagar Jung. ‘These are sight records only based entirely on
the flight of the bird with wings raised above the back and very different
indeed from the stiff vulture-like flight of the Steppe and Imperial eagles,
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY 71.
Aquila heliaca Savigny : Imperial Eagle.
A very dark eagle almost purple black in colour with short vulture-
like tail and broad stiff wings, the primaries very separated like the fingers
of a hand, is seen often in January and February. I take it to be of this
species.
Aquila nipalensis Hodgson : Steppe Eagle.
The eagle with 2 wing bars, larger than the last bird and with slightly
less stiff flight is very common in the Valley all winter, 3 or 4 often seen
soaring together particularly over the broad part of the river before it cuts °
its way out of the Valley by the gorge of Chorbar. My husband shot one
this winter, but I have not yet had a chance of comparing it with others
in a museum, and all my identifications of eagles are rather doubtful.
Hieraétus pennatus (Gmelin) : Booted Eagle. |
This is the only eagle of which I am certain (except for the common
and unmistakable Black and Serpent eagles). This bird has been seen
several times perched on one of the huge pines in our garden. It is here
throughout the year, most eagles being merely winter visitors. Last June
one perched in our garden was furiously attacked by 2 pairs of drongos
which had nests in the garden. The eagle snapped at them furiously and
I thought their end had come, but in the end the drongos were victorious
and the splendid bird rose in disgust and sailed away.
Pernis sp. ?
A honey buzzard is common here in winter between November and
March, We also saw it frequently in Pokhara, but I have not been able to
get a specimen and do not know what species or race it is.
Accipiter virgatus affinis Hodgson : Besra Sparrowhawk.
Moderately common in our garden all the year, and one was shot last
September while devouring a small bird.
Columba pulchricollis Blyth : Purple Wood Pigeon.
Scarce. I have only seen them on the ridge of Sheopuri at 8,400 ft.
A male shot 20th May was in breeding condition.
Columba hodgsonii Vigors : Speckled Wood Pigeon.
This pigeon is really quite common. It wanders a great deal and
appears wherever the various fruit are ripe in the jungle. Last March I
watched one for some time gorging on the green berries of a wild olive.
It was beside a path where wood-cutters were constantly passing. When
they appeared the bird would freeze in whatever position it was some-
times almost upside down. Not one of the many coolies noticed this large
bird within a few feet of their heads.
Streptopelia decaocto Frivalszky: Ring Dove.
Not normally seen in the Valley, but at the end of the monsoon
flocks appear and gorge on the ripening rice.
Arborophila torqueola (Valenc.) : Common Hill Partridge.
Not uncommon on the hills at about 8,000 ft. ‘They are very
secretive and I have watched them hiding under leaves and bushes when
disturbed. A male shot on May 24th was in breeding condition,
72 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL GIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Arborophila rufogularis (Blyth): Rufousthroated Hill Partridge
This bird occupies the.zone below the last and is commonest about
5-6000 ft.
Burhinus oedicnemus indicus (Salvadori): Indian Stone-curlew
Seen once only in the Valley, 28th August. It was standing on our
lawn after dark obviously bewildered in the glare of the headlights.
Sterna hirundo tibetana Saunders: Common Tern
Seen only during the autumn migration on the Manora River. Some-
times they remain a day or two when the river is in spate at the end of
the monsoon. An immature bird shot on August 9th. Several seen
early September.
Tringa glareola L. : Wood Sandpiper
A passage migrant common on both spring and autumn migrations.
Usually 4 or 5 birds together, but I have seen an occasional solitary bird.
Tringa nebularia (Gunnerus) Greenshank
Seen only on the autumn migration, when it is fairly common from
the end of August to the middle of September.
Philomachus pugnax (L.): Ruff & Reeve
On passage in autumn. A number on the Manora on Sept. 16.
2 birds shot were both males, one in golden and one in grey plumage.
Erolia temminckii (Leisler): Temminck’s Stint
Common all winter on the Manora River and on the Bagmati where
it widens before cutting its way out of the Valley. I have never seen it
on the smailer rivers. ;
They arrive about the 8th August and for the next 3 weeks swarm
all along the river banks, little flocks constantly rising with their purring
twitter. By the end of August the main migration has passed on, but
wintering birds remain. I have seen them until 17th May when they are
in full breeding dress. They are therefore absent for less than 3 months.
Anhinga melanogaster Pennant: Indian Snake-bird
Seen only once soaring over the Valley after a severe dust storm, on
16th April. A Neophron vulture was soaring with it, both obviously
storm driven as neither normally occurs in the Valley.
Anas querquedula L. : Garganey Teal
The common duck of the Valley in winter, though most are passage
migrants, passing through in large numbers in September and early
October. This year I saw 2 ducks in a small pool in the growing rice as
early as August Ist. No more were seen until 7th September.
In the following charts I have divided the migrant birds into Sum-
mer and Winter Visitors and Passage Migrants. Many birds, of course,
are both winter visitors and passage migrants. I have put them into
whichever group they appear the most numerous,
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY
Species of bird
Luscinia brunnea
Blue Chat.
Geokichla citrina
Orangeheaded Ground-
thrush.
Monticola cinclorhyncha
Blueheaded Rockthrush,
Muscicapa sibirica |
Sooty Flycatcher. |
Muscicapa latirostris
Brown Flycatcher.
MM. hyperythra
Whitefronted Blue Fly-
catcher. |
MW. superciliaris
Whitebrowed Blue Fly- |
catcher.
M. rubeculoides
Bluethroated Flycatch-
er
M. thalassina
Verditer Flycatcher.
Culicicapa cevlonensis
Greyheaded Flycatcher,
Tersiphone paradisi
Paradise Flycatcher.
Coracina melaschista
Dark Cuckoo-Shrike,
Oriolus oriolus
SUMMER VISITORS
Golden Oriole,
Sturnus malabaricus
Greyheaded Mynah.
tirundo rustica
Common Swallow.
Apus attinis
House Swift.
Foe Nt
First dates
15-4-53, 27-3-54
12-4-48, 8-5-49, 20-4-52,
2.5.53
early April °53, 5-4-54
11-4-52, 19-4-53, 8.4-54
1-4-52, 27-4-54
292-4.-51, 19-4-53
occasionally end February, |
early March
11-4-48, 17-4-50, 22-4-53
25-3-48, 22-3-51, 16-3-52,
23-3-53, 6-3-54 (odd bird)
main body 19-3-54
mid February, local migra-
tion a few miles below
Valley
19-3-48, 4.4.52,
26-3-54
24.3-53,
23-2-53, 27-2-54
mid April
mid March
mid February
29-2-48, 25-2-52, 12-2-54
these records are for
birds flying high almost
out of sight. They do
not appear flying round
the houses till the llth
— 12th March
73
ES CRT A BAC AS RS BTR TR ay
Last dates
26-9-52, 8-10-53
8-10-53
PORT eS Oh eTIE53
20-9-53
| 20-9-53
5-10-53
mid October
12-9-48, 8-9-53
all gone 2nd week Oct.
local migration to
foothill
first week September
gone by first week Nov-
ember
most gone by end August
mid October
74 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
SUMMER VISITORS— (contd.)
Species of bird First dates Last dates
iad |
Turdus unicolor April _ end October
Tickell’s Thrush
Phylloscopus veguloides | mid March mid September
Crowned Willow-
Warbler.
Passer rutilans Seen only rarely March to
Cinnamon Sparrow. September
Passer domesticus early March but most in | August
House Sparrow. April
Nectarinia asiatica 1-6-48, 1-6-51, 2-6-52, 1-6-53 | mid November
Purple Sunbird. I do find it astonishing
that this bird should |
arrive year after year |
on almost exactly the |
same day |
Dicaeum concolor mid March end September
Plaincoloured Flower-
pecker.
D. agile end June mid October
Thickbilled Flower-
pecker.
WINTER VISITORS
Species of bird First dates Last dates
Lustinia svecica September 14-9-53 End April 30-4-54
Bluethroat.
Phoenicurus frontalis end October 22-3-54
Bluefronted Redstart. |
P. hodgsont late October mid March
Hodgson’s Redstart.
P. leucocephala mid October April 12th
Whitecapped Redstart.
Tarsiger chrysaeus end October not common till |} March 22nd
Golden Bush Robin. November
Tarsiger cyanurus mid October March 24th in Valley
Redflanked Bush Robin. April 12th on hills
Adelura coeruleocephala | early November | end February
Blueheaded Robin.
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY
WINTER VISITORS—(contd.)
75
Species of bird
Turdus ruticollis
Blackthroated Thrush.
Zoothera dauma
Smallbilled Mountain
Thrush.
Muscicapa parva
Redbreasted Flycatcher.
M. strophiata
Orangegorgetted Fly-
catcher.
M. amabilis
Rustybreasted Flycatch-
er.
Rhipidura hypoxantha
Yellowbellied Fantail
Flycatcher.
Lanius tephronotus
Greybacked Shrike.
Lanius cristatus
Brown Shrike.
Phylloscopus collybita
Chiff-chiff.
Acrocephalus dumetorum
Blyth’s Reed Warbler.
Seieercus burkiit
Blackbrowed Flycat-
cher-Warbler.
Oriolus chinensis
Blacknaped Oriole.
Pyrrhula nipalensis
Brown Bullfinch.
Spinus tibetanus
‘Tibetan Siskin.
First dates
mid November
25-9-53
23-9-48, 25-9-53
mid November
December
20th November
end October
24th September
end November
3rd October
7th September
Seen January only
middle to erd September
end November
Last dates
April 25th
early May
27-4-53 ; all gone by first
week May; one 11th
May 54.
mid April
end March
end March. This year I
observed a migration
taking place, there were
at least 25 of these
birds flying north along
the Gandak-Kosi water-
shed at 8,000 ft. April
Sth.
end April-early May
ilth May
end March
lIth May
April 6th
early May
end March from Vailey
later on hills
SSDP BE CS 7
76 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SQCIETY, Vol. 53
WINTER VISITORS
Species of bird First dates Last dates
Car podacus rodochroa mid April
Pinkbrowed Rosefinch.
Car podacus nipalensis late November often ~|end March
Nepal Rosefincii, December.
Emteriza pusilla | November early April .
Little Bunting.
EZ. aureola end November end April, sometimes May
Yellowbreasted Bunting. |
Alauda gulgula | 10th October 2lst April
Kashmir Skylark.
Motacilla alba 13-9- (leucopsis) ‘ May 6th (dukhunensis )
White Wagtail.
M. cineréa 13th October . May 10th
Grey Wagtail. ;
M. flava 19th September May 4th
Greyheaded Wagtail.
M. citreola 6th September end April
Yellewheaded Wagtail.
Anthus hodgsoni | 14th September 4th May
Hodgson’s Pipit.
A, richardt 19th September ?
Richard’s pipit. .
A. voseatus | 7th October May 3rd
Reseate Pipit |
Pachyglossa melano- 'Only December to February.
zantha. |
Yellowbellied Flower-
pecker. |
Psitltacula himalayana December end March
Slatyheaded Parroquet.
Pandion haliaétus 14th September March
Osprey.
Aquila chrysactos December to February only. ees
Golden Eagle.
A. heliaca December to March
Imperial Eagle.
A. nipalensis end November to end March, 600
Steppe Eagle.
Civcus aeruginosus 5-9-48, 6-9-52, 6-9-53 April
Marsh Harrier. |
BIRDS OF THE NEPAL VALLEY re
WINTER VISITORS—(contd.)
CR AED EN
Species of bird | First dates
Buteo sp ? October 8th
Falco peregrinus calidus. | 16th September
Peregrine.
F. tinnunculus 20th September
Kestrel.
Accipiter nisus 14th October
Asiatic Sparrowhawk.
Tringa ochropus ° 17-8-48, 10-8-53
Green Sandpiper.
Actitis hypoleucos 1 8-8-48, 8-8-53
Common Sandpiper.
Evrolia temminckit about 8th September
‘Temmincek’s Stint.
Scolopax rusticola mid October
Woodcock.
Snipe (Fantail and Pin- | about 4th September
tail.
Last dates
mid April
18th April
Usually 3rd week ‘April
occasional llth May,
March
| about second week May
first fortnight May
17th May
early March when cften
inour garden on migra- |
tion
early May
78 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Rta eee ace RE ABN EL ED
Species of bird
Phoenicurus ochruros
Black Redstart.
Phylloscopus attinis
Tickell’s Willow-Warb-
ler.
P. trochiloides vividanus
P. nitidus
Green Willow-Warbler.
Car podacus erythrinus
Common Rosefinch.
lynx torquilla
Wryneck.
Sterna hirundo tibetana
Common Tern.
Numenius arquata
Curlew.
Tringa glareola
Wood Sandpiper.
Tringa neébularia
Greenshank.
Philomachus pugnax
Ruff.
Anas querquedu!la
Garganey.
PASSAGE MIGRANTS
| Autumn Spring
| |
| ? | Between 12th and 20th
April
September early March to April 25th
mid September to early | early March to May 20th
November
not in autumn last week March to
| Ist week May, mostly
second half April
scarcely any in autumn mid March to mid May ;
September-October April mostly
August-September not in spring
August
September mid April to mid May
mid August-end September
mid September
all September-mid October
THE FUNCTION OF ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS IN THE
PRESERVATION OF WILD LIFE
BY
E. P. GEE, M.A., C.M.Z.S.
(With four plates)
SYNOPSIS
Distinction between zoological gardens and zoological parks is mainly one of interior
space and geographical location. Prejudices against zoological gardens are mainly
unfounded and based on an anthropomorphic approach. Lack of space is not a
serious consideration. Animals are often healthier, happier and longer lived in
zoological gardens. Wild animals trapped for zoological gardens are only a tiny
fraction of those destroyed by various means. Importance of standard of mainten-
ance of zoological gardens, whether the emphasis is on the recreational or the cultural
side. Increasing scarcity of wild life demands attention from zoological gardens
which provide the opportunity of rescuing species from extinction. Some species are
now in urgent need of rescuing in this way. The additional indirect method of pre-
serving wild life by the education derived from zoological gardens.
1. INTRODUCTION
The distinction between a zoological garden and a zoological park may
be briefly summarised as foilows: ° 1.
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BOTANICAL EXPLORATION OF KRISHNAGIR] NATIONAL PARK 187
The climatic data incorporated in this paper cover a period of 7 years,
from 1946-1952. In our outings we have occasionally taken readings
for temperature, wind velocity, light intensity etc. ; our readings, however,
are not mentioned here because they are too sporadic to be of any scien-
tific value ; nevertheless on checking our readings with the official data
here reproduced, we find them in very close agreement, and this further
prompts us to leave our insufficient readings out of the picture,
RAINFALL
The rainy season in Borivli, as well as in Bombay, lasts roughly from
about the middle of June to the end of September. The advent of the
SW. monsoon is heralded by some severe local thunderstorms from the
end of May onwards. ‘The monsoon proper sets in at about the middle of
June and continues, usually with great force, up to the end of August.
Thereafter there may be a short break of clear, sunny days. The NW.
monsoon starts about the ena of the first week in September and con-
tinues more or less regularly till the end of the month. Occasionally a
few heavy showers come down at the beginning of October. From about
the middle of October onwards, till the next monsoon, the rainfall may
be reduced to just an occasional light shower particularly towards the end
of December.
Of the total amount of rainfall recorded for the district, the greatest
percentage belongs to the period June—October. The rainfall for the
rest of the year may go up to about 5% of the total yearly figure.
The following table gives the total annual rainfall for the years 1946-
1952 in inches and cm.; the highest rainfall was that for 1949 with a
total of 108°51” (271 49 cm.), and the lowest that for 1950 with only
61:50” (153°75 cm.). The average for the period 1946-1952 is 75:95”
(189°87 cm.).
APA TBaBID ae
TortaL ANNUAL RAINFALL
1946-1952
Year | Total in inches | Total in cm. Remarks
1946 | 79:14 OV SOP mnen! |e LONE x coaeos
1947 77:08 | NOR) =. i eee
1948 71:74 179:35 | OY ae ree
1949 108°51 | 271°42 Highest in 6 years.
1950 61°50 | 153°75 | Lowest in 6 years.
1951 70°41 | WBOD bebe
1952 | 63°33 56832 A areca...
188 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. &3
The following table gives the average monthly rainfall for the years
1946-1952 in inches and cm,
TABLE 2
AVERAGE MONTHLY RAINFALL
1946-1952
eS
Month | - Rainfall ins. | Rainfall cm.
January a | 0°048 | 0°12
February
March oat | 0°016 | 0°04
April Mc 0:37 | 0°92
May | 0:43 1:07
June | 15°35 38°37
July | 25-08 | 62°70
August 500 | 12°40 31:00
September Aa | 18°63 46°57
October rs 1-93 4-82
November be. | 1°59 3°97
December 6c | 0-087 0°21
SUNSHINE
The length of daily sunshine varies according to the season and
weather. During the monsoon, which corresponds to the longest days
of the year, the amount of sunshine is the smallest due to the presence of
dense clouds. A study of the monthly record of sunshine from 1933-
1942 shows that July is the month with the shortest period, the length of
the sunshine period increasing gradually as we move in either direction
from July ; the maximum length of sunshine is that of May.
TWAGB SESE
MONTHLY TOTAL DURATION OF SUNSHINE
(Average for 1933-1942)
Month Jan.
Hours | 298'8 281'6 3021 303°7 321°6 159°4
‘ourN. BompBaAy Nat. Hist. Soc. PLATE I
Se S
1. View of the main road near the entrance to the
National Park.
| 2. The vegetation on the slopes of Gandhi Smriti
Mandir at the entrance to the Park.
(Photos: H. Santapau)
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II SLV1g ‘DOG “LSIF[ “LVNY Avalwog “Nunof[
BOTANICAL EXPLORATION OF KRISHNAGIR] NATIONAL PARK 189
Month | July August Sept. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec:
Hours | 67°4 | 93 +2 | 1727 268°5 | 282°3 | 287°9
| | !
TEMPERATURE
The hottest months of the year are April and May, October being a
close second. The maximum temperature recorded for the years 1946-—
1952 is 92°7°F. (33:7°C.). The hottest hours of the day are between
12 noon and 3 p.m. The coolest month of the year is January with an
average minimum of about 70°F. (21:1°C.). The lowest minimum
temperature registered for the same years as above is 65:2°F. (18°44°C.),
The range of daily temperature for any month of the year is about 15°F,
(8°3°C.) ; in the monsoon, however, the difference is scarcely ever more
thanmlOShe@roce.):
TABLE 4
MBAN MONTHLY MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM TEMPERATURES IN °F,
1946-1952
Month Mean Maximum Mean Minimum
January ae 85:075 67°03
February oe 85°44 68° 24
March i 88°21 72°78
April 5 90-04 77°33
May ¥ 92°00 80°60
June fa 69:53 79°53
July | 85:94 77°65
August 00) 85°55 76°01
September a 86-01 76:18
October Aas 89°21 76°43
November st 89°54 | 72:80
December ‘id 87°43 | 69°18
Mean yearly temperature : Silos
Mean maximum temperature: 87°83°F.
Mean minimum temperature: 74:48°F.
Highest maximum temperature for 7 years : 92°7°F. in May 1952,
Lowest minimum temperature for 7 years: 65°2°F. in Jan, 1951,
199 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
HuMIDITY
Due to its proximity to the sea, the moisture content of the air at the
National Park remains fairly high throughout the year. There are slight
changes from season to season; in the monsoon, the moisture content
may reach close to 190 and seldom goes below 80%. In the dry season,
especially in the months of February and March, the moisture content goes
down to 60%. In addition to this seasonal change, there is a daily variation,
the relative humidity being high in the early hours of the morning,
decreasing to a minimum at about 3 p.m. and thereafter going up through
the evening and night to the maximum of early morning.
TABLE 5
RELATIVE HUMIDITY OF THE ATMOSPHERE
Average for 1946-1952
Month = ggg rs 18.1. | 1700 brs LS."
January a UP ak | 63°4
February oat 74°) | 61:3
March ae Usx7 | 62:4
April 73°8 | 65:7
May a 73°8 | 66:0
June oe 81°7 | Use
July Son 86:8 | 82:7
August | 86:3 | 81°5
September at 86°4 | 79°0
October see 78°5 | 74:0
November be 73°8 | 68'3
December 83 Yor | - 63:7
|
Mean annual humidity at 08:00 hrs. LS.T.: 77°6%.
Mean annual humidity at 17-00 hrs. L.S.T.: 70:2%.
WIND DIRECTION AND VELOCITY
The general direction of the wind throughout the dry months of the
year is from North or the North-east. During the first half of the
monsoon, from June to about the end of August, the winds blow from
BOTANICAL EXPLORATION OF KRISHNAGIR]I NATIONAL PARK i91
South-west to North-east, at times with considerable force; during
September and the early part of October, the winds change into a North-
west to South-east direction and are generally considerably slower than in
the early part of the monsoon. Occasionally we have had gales reaching
a speed of about 90 m.p.h. (November 22, 1948). During the dry
months of the year, there is usually a gentle breeze blowing from the sea
inwards and lasting from about 11 a.m. to about 3 p.m.
In general, climatic conditions in the National Park are very similar
to those in Bombay-with a few noteworthy differences. In the low-lying
ground along the river and road in the Park, the temperature may be
rather unpleasant at noon, the reason being that the hills forming the
boundary of the Park enclose the area and keep out much of the breeze.
On the other hand, the higher parts near the Kanheri Caves are
considerably cooler than Bombay, and during the monsoon receive a
larger quantity of rainfall than the plains or the rest of Salsette and
Bombay Islands. In spite of the high temperatures mentioned above, the
Park remains fairly covered with green plants through the greater part of
the year; the probable cause for this seems to be the abundance
of water in the district and the high moisture content of the atmos-
phere.
GEOLOGICAL DATA
There is little that can be said about the geology of the Krishnagiri
National Park that doesnot apply to most of Salsette Island. The general
type of rock of the whole area must be classed as ‘Deccan Trap’. Such
rocks are thought to have been formed as the result of volcanic action ;
they are generally rather dark, almost black, in colour and fairly hard.
However, in the area under consideration, three distinct types of volcanic
rocks have been observed :
(1) Volcanic breccia,
(2) Basic lavas or basalt,
(3) Acid lavas or rhyolitic.
The Kanheri Hills in which the Caves have been carved show a dome-
shaped structure and are chiefly made of volcanic breccia; this type of
rock is practically restricted to the part of the hills in the neighbourhood
of the Caves. ‘The soil cap on this type of rock is either very thin or
altogether absent. It is, therefore, impossible to have large trees on such
ground except in depressions where the soil has gathered, or in large
cracks in the rocks. The rocks are impervious to water.
The hills forming the arms of the horse-shoe, of which Kanheri is the
centre, are made of basalt or basic lava. ‘This type of rock covers the
larger portion of the area. Soil is fairly abundant specially in the low-
lying parts where soil brought down by the rains is gathered. The rocks
themselves are very dark, almost black, but the soil may at times be rather
reddish on account of the high concentration of iron.
The third type of rock is found from close to the railway station of
Borivli to Pavillion Hill and extends northwards up to Dahisar River. The
contrast between these two types—acid and basic lavas—can be clearly
seen along the channel of Dahisar River.
192 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
THE VEGETATION OF KRISHNAGIRI NATIONAL PARK
As stated above, the entrance to the Park is about § mile E. of Borivli
Station. Just within the Park, and near its entrance, is situated the
National Park Hotel and a little further into the Park, the Administrative
Offices, Recreation Ground, etc. The first hill encountered when entering
from Borivli is Pavillion Hill(No. 4 in the map) from which a good view
may be had of practically the whole ofthe Park. The slopes of Pavillion
Hili ate botanically very interesting ; the trees and shrubs are decidedly of
the Southern Tropical Moist Deciduous Type of Cham-
pion. Going further into the Park along the main road, the country is
intensively cultivated in spots, rice being the main crop; Bovassus flabelli-
fey Linn. is the most common tree in this part, in or near the cultivated
fields.
The central valley, along which the road and river run, is practically
bare of vegetation except in the immediate neighbourhood of the river.
The altitude of the valley is about 15 ft. above sea level. The banks and.
bed of the river show the vegetation typical of such habitats. The banks
of the river are often covered with woody plants such as WAolarrhena
antidysenterica Wall., Mangifera indica Linn., Woodfordia truticosa Kurz.,
Kirganelia reticulata Baill., Homonoia riparia Lour., Pongamia pinnata
Pierre, Syzygium cumini Skeels, etc. Pongamta pinnata Pierre becomes
particularly common along the river at the part where the ground begins
to rise, until in the higher reaches, it becomes a large tree and covers
the banks to the exclusion of almost everything else.
Climbing on the shrubs of the river banks we have noticed, among the
commonest, the following plants: Derris scandens Benth., Combretum
ovalifolium Roxb., Argyreta nervosa Boj., Smatlax zeylanica Linn., Jasmi-
num malabaricum Wt.
In the bed of the river, during the dry months of the year, the com-
monest plants are Rotula aguatica Lour. and Homonoia riparia Lour.
Near the water orin very moist places Polygonum glabrum Willd. grows
in great abundance. In drier parts, Glaus Jlototdes Linn., Argemone
mexicana Linn., Coldenta procumbens Linn., etc. grow in fairly good
abundance.
Scattered on either side of the main road, there are a number of pools
which show an almost constant composition in vegetation. JAomoea
aquatica Forsk. grows in water or in very wet soil; Utricularia stellaris
Linn, and Limnophila sessilitlora Blume grow submerged in water
except for the inflorescence ; Vymphaea pubescens Willd., Limnanthemum
cvistatum Griesb., Limnanthemum tndicum Thw., Azolla and others float
on the surface. After the disappearance of the water, but before the
ground becomes dry, one finds an abundance of Grangea maderaspatana
Poir., Coldenta procumbens Linn., Sphaevanthus indicus Linn., Polygonum
plebejum R. Br., Glinus lotoides Linn., Dopatrium junceum Buch.-Ham.,
tlydrolea zeylanica Vahl, several species of Lindernia and a large number
of Cyperaceae and Gramineae ; often semi- parasitic species of ‘ Scvophul-
avtaceaé grow on the roots of such grasses.
Vegetation along the Main Road
The vegetation on the road itself, during the dry months of the year,
is typically of a strongly xerophytic type and includes many of the weeds
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suoje punois o1eq uodo wolf ig ‘yY vaqunsis sidonojwg *€ ‘surerd oy} WoL, “WUT vowpur Dyan “I
BOTANICAL EXPLORATION OF KRISHNAGIRI NATIONAL PARK 193
seen in similar habitats in the neighbourhood of Bombay. Among the
commoner plants are the following :
Euphorbia hivta Linn, Phyllanthus stmplex Retz.
Euphorbia thymifolia Linn. Phyllanthus urinaria Linn.
and several species of prostrate Alyszcarpus and Desmodium.
On many occasions we have noticed several alien plants on the road,
showing thereby the means of introduction of the same into the district.
Such, for instance, are Gomphrena celosioides Mart., Acanthospermum
hispidum DC. and others.
Along the sides of the road one sees the same plants as on the road
itself, but growing more luxuriantly, and in addition are the following
plants given roughly in the order of abundance:
Fy ptis suaveolens Poit. Cleome viscosa Linn.
Celosia argentea Linn. Cassia mtmosoides Linn.
Sesamum indicum Linn. Aeschynomene indica Linn.
Vernonia cinerea Less. Martynia annua Linn.
Achyranthes aspera Linn. vat. Solanum xanthocarpum Schrad.
porphyristachya Hook. f. et Wendl.
Physalis minima Linn. Cassia tora Linn.
Peristrophe bicalyculata Nees.
Among the foreign or cultivated plants being introduced into the
district, the following are noticeable :
Acanthospermum hispidum DC. Physalis peruviana Linn.
Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Gomphrena celosioides Mart.
Xanthium strumarium Linn. Sesanum indicum Linn.
Hyptis suaveolens Poit. Martynia annua Linn.
Some of these plants, e.g. dcanthospermum, are now well established
within the entrance to the Park ; unless measures are taken to check it,
this weed, within a few years, may spread all over the National Park.
The Hills along the Main Road
_ The vegetation of the hills N. and 8. of the main Park road is clearly
of secondary formation; the original forest has almost completely dis-
appeared from the whole Park area. The regenerated forest has also been
subjected to much despoliation, so that, in consequence, it is very rare
now to find a tree over 50 feet in height.
_ The forest, or whatever is left of it, can be roughly classed in the
‘Southern Tropical Moist Deciduous Forest’ or
‘Deciduous Monsoon Forest’ Type of Champion. In many
parts of the so-called forest, only shrubs of up to 8-10 feet remain.
Even in better parts of the forest, it is not easy to distinguish the various
storeys or layers which are so typical in other parts of the country.
Where such storeys can be distinguished, the following is their
composition :
(a) Top Layer (30-50 ft. in height) :
The commonest trees forming this storey are the following ;
Terminalia crenulata Roth. Tectona grandis Linn. f.
Gavuga pinnata Roxb. — Bridelia squamosa Gehrm.
194. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL: HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Butea monosperma Kuntze. Mallotus philippensis Muell-Arg.
Bauhinia racemosa Lamk. Adina cordifolia Bth. and Hk.
Ficus gibbosa Blame Oroxylum indicum Vent.
var. parasitica King. Kirganelia veticulata Baill.
(0) Middle Layer (6-15 ft.) :
This layer is made up of seedlings of the plants forming the upper
layer and of a few woody plants among which the following are
common :
Wrightia tinctoria R. Br. Morinda ttnctorta Roxb. vat.
Holarrhena antidysenterica Wall. tomentosa Hook. f.
Zizyphus glaberrima Sant. Melanthesa turbinata Wight.
Helicteres isora Linn. Carvia callosa Bremek,
Pavetta indica Linn. Solanum indicum Linn.
Grewia tiliaefolia Vahl. Antsomeles heyneana Benth.
Grewta microcos Linn.
(c) Ground Layer :
This is made up of grasses and a few herbaceous species none of
which, however, is sufficiently common in the -dry season to give a
distinctive appearance to this layer. The commoner plants are: AHfemi-
graphis latebrosa Nees var. heyneana Bremek., Haplanthus tentaculatus
Nees var. zcestana Sant., Orthosiphon glabratus Benth., and others.
(dz) Climbers :
Scattered all over the forest and going at times over the highest
trees are the following climbers :
Aspidopterys cordata A. Juss. Derris scandens Benth.
Dalbergia volubilis Roxb. Cylista scari9sa Roxb.
Jasminum malabaricum Wight. Zizyphus rugosa Lamk.
Combretum ovalifolium Joxb. Cansjera rheedii Gmel.
Cry ptolepis buchananit R. & S. Pueraria tulerosa DC.
Species of Czsswzs and
— w
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mE
S
— =
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mm
Ss) 8
@ies
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és
m
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Zz
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MARINE ORGANISMS INJURIOUS TO TIMBER 208
borers (see map). Some of the observations made during the year
1953-54 are given below.
MARTESIA
LATERAL VIEW
y
DORSAL VIEW
Figs. 11 and 12.
Considering the damage done by the borers to many of the timber
beams left on the mud flats at Sewri, this locality appears to be favourable
for the growth and dispersal of the shipworms as they are predominant in
this area. Specimens of Zevedo, ranging from 5-350 mm. and of Bankia
from 5-410 mm. in length have been so far noted from this locality
(plate). It is interesting to note that a number of timber beams, as large
as 50 to 60 cu. ft. each, have been completely destroyed by these borers.
At Trombay, some discarded wooden fenders revealed the severe damage
by TZeredo (photo). Other localities where the shipworms, particularly
Teredo, were found to occur are Butcher Island, Uran, Worli shore,
Bandra shore, Versova and Madh Island.
The Piddocks (Martesia sp.) were also found to occur in certain
localities in the Harbour waters. A timber log of the size of about a
railway sleeper beneath the Pir Pau Jetty was heavily infested by these
organisms. Some pieces of timber lying about and an old ladder along
the jetty were also completely damaged by ‘the activities of the same
borer. The piles of an old wooden jetty at Madh Island were also infest-
ed by Martesta alone. Remnants of an old country craft on the mud
flat at Madh Island, however, indicated the existence of all the three types,
viz. Zeredo, Bankia and Martesia, in this locality. A few forms of
piddocks have been collected from some beams at Sewri Timber Pond
along with the shipworms and also from a stray scantling on the Bandra
204, JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
shore. The deteriorated wooden fenders from the Naval jetty at Trom-
bay were also found to be attacked by Martesia to some extent. It is of
interest to note that A/artesia has been also noticed to bore in certain soft
rocks at Chaupati (Back Bay) and along the Bandra shore. The observa-
tions made during the survey seem to indicate that Martesta is commonly
found along Pir Pau and Madh Island. The size of the /artesta specimens
varied between 8 to 35 mm. in length.
It appears from the observations made so far that the marine wood
borers are to some extent confined to certain localities in their distribution.
The shipworms are vigorously active at Sewri Timber Pond, and
piddocks at Pir Pau and Madh Island. They are generally found to
occur on separate timber structures, though occasionally the three genera,
namely Martesia, Teredo, and Bankia, are taken from the same.
Further work relating to the distribution and movements of the
borers and the relative intensity of their attack on various species of Indian
timbers is in progress at this Institute.
The above work has been carried out with funds provided by the
Forest Research Institute, specially obtained from various sources for the
execution of the scheme on the protection of Indian timbers against the
attack of marine organisms.
REFERENCES
1. Bartsch, P. (1922) : ‘A monograph of American shipworms,’ U.S. Nat.
Mus. Bull. No. 122.
2. Calman, W. T. (1919) : ‘Marine boring animals injurious to submerged
structures.’ Brit. Mus. Nat. Hist. Econ. Ser. No. 10, 34 pp.
3. Iredale, T., Johnson, R. A. & McNeill, F. A. (1932) : ‘Destruction of tim-
ber by marine organisms in the port of Sydney.’ Publ. Sydney Harbour Trust.
4, Kofoid, C. A. & Miller, R. C. (1927): ‘ Marine borers and their relation to
marine construction on the Pacific Coast.’ Final Report of the San Francisco Bay
Marine Piling Committee, Biological section, pp. 188-343.
5. Sigerfoos,C. P. (1908) : ‘ Natural history, organisation and late develop-
ment of the Teredinidae or Shipworms.’ Aull. U.S. Bur. Fish. 27, pp. 191-231,
THE ‘SLUG’ CATERPILLAR, PARASA LEPIDA
CRAM., AND ITS CONTROL
BY
K. P. ANANTHANARAYANAN
AND
E. V. ABRAHAM
Madras Agricultural Department
(With one plate)
INTRODUCTION
The slug caterpillars belong to the family Eucleidae (Limacodidze) of
the order Lepidoptera. Ayyar (1932) has recorded a few forms such as
Pazasa lepida Cram., Contheyla rotunda Hampson, Natada nararia Moore,
Thosea cervina Moore, and Beltppa laleana Moore, as occurring in South
India on various plants. Of these Pavasa lepida Cram., is the commonest
and most important, and is usually known as the Castor Slug. The insect
has appeared in pest form, twice in the College orchard, Coimbatore,
during the past dozen years. The studies on the life cycle and general
morphology of the larvae were made by the senior author during 1934
when the pest appeared in a severe form, defoliating mango trees. At the
second severe outbreak of the pest on mango and citrus, in the year 1953,
the observations were continued and some trials were conducted with
success on the control of the pest by use of synthetic chemicals, A
brief account of the pest together with observations on the control aspects
are recorded hereunder.
THE INSECT AND ITS DISTRIBUTION
The adult insect is a short stout moth (fig. 1) with forewings predomi-
nently green in the middle and brownish at either end. According to
Ayyar (1940), Burns ef al, (1921), Corbett (1932), and Venkatasubban
(1950), the insect is widely distributed in South India, Bombay and Bengal,
as well asin Malaya and Ceylon, outside India.
NATURE AND EXTENT OF DAMAGE
The caterpillar is known to infest a variety of plants. Citrus and
mango plants were found severely damaged and castor to a lesser extent
during 1953, as observed by the authors. The young caterpillars feed
gregariously on the lower surface of the tender leaves scraping the green
matter and causing the eventual drying up of the foliage. As the cater-
pillars grow in size, they scatter themselves and start feeding on the entire
leaves. Young mango and citrus plants get defoliated completely. Badly
affected castor plants bear only the skeletonized leaves, the entire leaf
blade being reduced to the mid-rib and a few veins. Corbett (1932)
206 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
and Venkatasubban (1950) have observed the pest causing serious damage
to coconut palm by the larvee eating the green matter of the leaflets, and
ultimately leading to the drying up of the fronds. Besides the above
plant, the insect has been recorded as infesting aiso Palmyra, Wood
Apple, Pepper, Pomegranate, Cauliflower, Tea, Coffec, Banana, Rose,
Country almond etc. (Barlow 1900, Fletcher 1914, and Lefroy 1909).
The insect is thus a polyphagous one, subsisting on a variety of plants.
Apart ,from its role as a serious pest, the caterpillar is dreaded by
man for the acute irritation and pain it causes at the slightest contact with
human skin.
Lirk History AND NATURE OF THE CATERPILLAR
Various authors have broadly indicated the general habits or life his-
tory of the insect. Corbett (1932) and Venkatasubban (1950) have
furnished more details. The bionomics were studied at Coimbatore by
the senior author in 1934. The’moths in captivity did not lay eggs.
As observed under field conditions, the moth is known to deposit flat
shining eggs in batches of 20-30 on the underside of the leaves. The
caterpillars hatch out in about 6-7 days and begin to feed on the green
matter of the foliage near about the site of eggs, all remaining together.
The caterpillars reared (figs. 2 and 3) become full grown, measuring
about an inch in length with stout body, in about 6 weeks. ‘The cater-
pillar has 4 rows of spiny scoli placed laterally and dorsally, (figs. 4 and 5).
The ventral surface is flat and fleshy, and the larva moves slug-like.
Coloration is white on the ventral surface and greenish above. The
spines on the scoli (fig. 5) are numerous, tipped red or black, and
they cause irritation and pain by glandular secretion. The full grown
larva pupates in a thick shell-like cocoon, (fig. 6). The pupal cocoon is
compact, elliptical, chocolate-brown in colour at first, later turning grey,
and hard. ‘The upper surface is convex and the lower surface flat, and
each cocoon is provided with a circular lid to allow exit for the emerging
moth. Sometimes thousands of these are found attached to the trunks
and branches of attacked trees. The pupal period lasts for about 3 weeks.
Even the cocoon is irritating to the touch. The life cycle is completed in
about 10 weeks. ;
PROBLEM OF CONTROL
(1) Natural Enemies
Ayyar (1934 and 1940) and Thompson (1946) make mention of
predators and parasites which are about a dozen. The following parasites
and predators are recorded in South India at Coimbatore:
(1) Apanteles sp. } :
(2) Chinocentrus sp. § penne es
(3) Stomatoceras ayyert G. Chalcidide.
(4) ALurytona parasae G, Eurytomidee.
(5) Phyctta atentinella A. Phycitidee.
But none of these seem to exercise any appreciable check on the pest.
Journ. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Stim tithe SSS oy
SLUG
PARASA LEPIDA
}
Li .
YOUNG STAGE LARVA
RED SPINY HEADS
iN AEC OMINAL SEGMENTS
Say
<5
?
en.
BObY CONTOUR
IN DIAGRAMATIC SECTION
vad
LA
SPINES & SETAE
LATERAL SCOLUS DORSOLATERAL SCOLUS
COCOON COCcoOON
(Dorsal view) oe Side view)
LE
A MANGO LEAF WITH GREGARIOUS
YOUNG CATERPILLARS
CATER PILLAR
THE ‘SLUG CATERPILLAR AND ITS CONTROL 207
(ii) Older Methods of Control
Fletcher (1914), Ayyar (1940) and others recommended hand pick-
ing of caterpillars, destruction of pupae and spraying of arsenates or other
stomach poisons in bad cases. Mechanical destruction by hand picking
will be effective if it is done in the early stages, when the larvee are
eregarious and many of them are crowded in individual leaves. But in
tall trees infested by large numbers of caterpillars, hand picking becomes
impracticable and especially so when the larvze jhave scattered themselves.
Hand picking has to be ‘done with utmost care as the caterpillars are
highly irritating to the touch.
Sprays of lead arsenate or calcium arsenate have seldom given satis
factory results.
(iii) Trials with new Insecticides
On the occurrence of the pest in serious form on mango and citrus in
and around the College orchard, Coimbatore, during September to Novem-
ber 1953, investigations on its control by means of the synthetic chemicals
DDT and BHC, which are in large scale use for the control of various
other pests, were undertaken. The data gathered from separate trials
conducted on mango and citrus are furnished below.
(a) Trials on Intested Mango trees
Four heavily infested trees of medium size were selected for each
treatment and the population of caterpillars on 25 random leaves per tree
was counted before and after treatment.
TABLE I
Parasa lepida. Vreatment and population counts
|
een = : :
ay s | Population after treatment |
$ Qu} Ss = in “: :
o Bd goa om % ; ___| Percentage of
Treatments SES | Sel | | reduction in
| 998 Gs | a u o opulation
ee eee ee se
Zao 5 Parsar i aoa 3 a
Qu oom | 20 | nN
eer N =H ; ~~
1. BHC 0:905% | 100 SOV) | 38 | wee on 1100 in 43 hrs.
Spray | | | | |
2, DDT 0°16% | 100 | 282 148 | 82 54 (80.8 in 72 hrs.
spray | | | |
3. Control | 100 258 26u | 244 | 278 Nil.
(b) Trials an Citrus planis.
Trials were conducted on similar lines on malta lemon on which
also the pest appeared in severe form. ‘The following results were
obtained.
208 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
TABLE II
Parasa lepida. Population counts on citrus trees
)
ne | § Population after treatment |
Senay ge in |
By A bee Oe thee Beh | Percentage of
Treatments oreo ene g | | reduction in
ogo | ae q Celia 2 | population
en waste fe 5 5 wack
' o Oo | oc G SG
! = a_i ¢ at
|
1. BHC 0°:05% 100 194 16 co | seh 100 in 48 hrs.
spray |
2, DDT 0.16% | 100 210 184 100 | 29 86:2 in 72 hrs.
spray | . |
3. Control 1€0 178 189 168 172 3°4 in 72 hrs.
From the above trials it is seen that BHC 0.05% can effect a complete
mortality of the caterpillars within 48 hours after treatment. In half an
hour after spraying, a number of caterpillars were noted falling down
paralysed, from the trees. DDT showed delayed action, and it did not
give as thorough a control of the pest as BHC used.
In the trials conducted, spraying was adopted in preference to dusting
as the former alone was found practicable for dealing with the caterpillars
which usually remain on the underside of the leaves. The advantage of
spraying is much more felt when tall and densely grown trees have to be
treated.
Cost of treating with BHC 0:05% (Gamma isomer)
Quantity of spray fluid per mango tree of medium size 4 gallons.
IRS ANG IB:
Cost of chemical for treating one tree sco «6
Labour charges (approximate) Bory nea be 2G}
Total oe Ole Ome”)
For preparing 0:05% BHC, 1 Ib. of the 50% wettable powder is mixed in
13 gallons of water. The cost may vary according to the size of the tree
and the volume of spray fluid used. ‘The cost of treatment is invariably
less for citrus plants.
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
Parasa lepida Cram. is a serious pest of sporadic occurrence on mango,
citrus, castor, coconut and other plants. Its life cycle occupies about
10 weeks. The caterpillar has tubercles and spines on its body, which
are poisonous and irritating to the touch. During heavy outbreaks the
insect defoliates the plants completely. Handpicking and mechanical
destruction are practicable in early stages when the larvae are gregarious,
and affected individual leaves can be clipped. Of the two chemicals,
THE ‘SLUG’ CATERPILLAR AND ITS CONTROL 309
DDT and BHC, tried against the pest, BHC 0:05% (gamma) spray proved
very efficient. The cost of treating a medium sized tree may come to
about six annas (Re 0-6-0) only.
LITERATURE CITED
AvvAR, T. V. R. (1934) : Hymenopterous parasites of economic importance in
South India. Madras Agric. Jour. 12 : 436.
Ayvyar, T. V. R. (194U) : Handbook of Economic Entomology for South India,
pp. 220-222. Government Press, Madras,
BARLow, E. (1900) ; Miscellaneous notes for the Entomology Section, Znadian
Museum Notes 4 (1): 21.
Burns, W. and PravacG, S. H. (1921): The book on mango. Aull. No, 103.
Depi.. of Agric., Bombay, p. 4.
Corsetrt, G. H, (1932) : Insect pests of Coconuts in Malaya, F. M.S. and Straits
Settlements.
FLETCHER, T. B. (1914): Some South Indian Insects, pp. 410-411. Government
Press, Madras.
Lerroy, H. M, (1909): Indian Insect Life, pp. 500-501. Thacker, Spink and
Co., Calcutta.
lHomeson, W.R. (1946): A Catalogue of Parasites and Predators of Insect
Pests—Section 1, part 8, p 436.
VEN KATASUBBAN, C. S, (1950) : Some sporadic pests of Coconuts in Cochin,
Bull, Indian Central Coco. Committee. 3, (7): pp. 78-79.
NEW PLANT RECORDS FOR BOMBAY--III
BY
H. SANTAPAU, S.J., F.N.I.
AND
C. SALDANHA, SJ., B.Sc. (Hons.)
(With tive plates)
This is a continuation of the series by the senior author, the last num-
ber of which appeared in this Journal (52: 661-663, 1955). Intensive
search of the flora of Bombay by the authors has produced a number of
new records, which so far have not been mentioned for the State of
Bombay in any of our provincial or national Floras. The illustrations are
all by the junior author, who for some time has been working on the
Systematics of the Personales of Bombay. Some of our plants have been
found by us in the field; others have been identified by us in Blatter
Herbarium, St. Xavier’s College, Bombay.
1. WLindernia pyxidaria Allioni in Misc. Taurin. 3: 178, t. 5, 1766;
Linn, Mant. 2: 252, 1771; Haines, Bot. Bih. and Or. 634;
Pennell, Scroph. W. Himal. 28; Mukerjee in Journ. Ind. Bot,
Soc, 24: 131, 1945 (Plate I). Scrophulariac.
Gratiola integritolia Roxb. F1. Ind. 1: 138, 1820.
Vandellia evecta Benth. Scroph. Ind. 36, 1834; FI. Brit. Ind.
4; 281.
Vandellia pyxidaria Maxim.: Prain, Beng. Pl. 769; Gamble, FI.
Madr. 960.
We have followed Hooker, Haines, Pennell etc. in considering the
Indian plant as identical with the European one; further we have taken
Gratiola integrifolia Roxb. to be the same as our plant although Roxb.
includes his plant under Diandria and not under Didynamia.
The present species is supposed to be widespread all over India;
so far, however, it has only been found in Khandala by Santapau in 1953;
it is therefore extremely rare in Bombay State, but further careful search
will probably give more complete data about its distribution in Bombay.
Description: Annual, slender, glabrous herbs. Stems divaricately
branched from the base, rooting at some of the lower nodes. Leaves
opposite, decussate, sessile, elliptic, entire or shallowly and obscurely
erenate, up to 1°5 x 0:7 cms. ; nerves 3-5, parallel.
Flowers solitary, axillary; pedicels slender, longer than the leaves or
sepals, exceeding 1'5 cms. long; calyx 5-lobed, divided almost to the
base ; lobes linear or lanceolate, 2 mm, long in flower, elongating to 3 mm,
in fruit ; corolla 2-lipped, 5 mm. long; stamens 4, fertile, didynamous ;
anterior filaments larger, arched, appendiculate, pubescent at the base ;
the posterior ones shorter, inserted at lower level ; anther-cells entire, con-
nivent at the apex; ovary ovoid, glabrous; style filiform, 2 mm. long ;
Journ. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. Prart |
5mm.
4 A CME.
Lindernia pyxidaria All.
A, Entire plant; B. Calyx with ovary, style and stigma; C, Corolla with
stamens; D, Capsule; E. Seed, highly magnified.
Jourh, Bombay Nat. Hist. Soé. Pyare It
flee oreemrenneeneee i aepeeneenneeennnee Leaner nartememenee S
a n £ Cms,
Utricularia smithiana Wight
A. Entire plant; B. Bracts and bracteoles; C. Flower; D. Calyx with ovary,
style and stigma; E. Upper lip with stamens; F. Seeds highly magnified,
NEW PLANT RECORDS FOR BOMBAY—III 211
stigma forked. Capsule subglobose to ovoid, slightly exceeding the
calyx ; seeds oblong, sparingly covered with hyaline hairs.
This plant was collected in Khandala by the senior author in May 1953
(Santapau 12749-12750 of 3 May and 12781-12784 of 23 May), grow-
ing in moist ground near the railway line. It was quite abundant locally ;
the colour of the corolla was noted at the time of collection as bluish or
whitish.
2, Utricularia smithiana Wight, Icon. t. 1577, 1850; Gamble, FI.
Madr. 982, 1924 (Plate II). Lentibulariac.
U. caerulea Linn. var. smithiana Clarke in Hook.f. FI. Brit. Ind.
4: 33], 1884.
Slender annual, insectivorous herb. Rhzzome filiform, bearing bladders.
Leaves linear-spathulate, 7 mm. long. Scafes erect or twining, up to 30
cms. long; scales few, ovate, pointed, 1 mm. long. Flowers pedicellate ;
bract broad, ovate, acute, 1-1:°5 mm. long; bracteoles 2, narrower,
lanceolate, equal to the bract in length; pedicels slender, filiform, 7
mm. long in flower, 155 cms. long ‘in fruit; calyx-lobes 2, slightly
unequal, posterior one broader, ovate, 4 mm. long; the lower one
narrower, 3°5-4 mm. long, shorter than the pedicel, slightly decurrent
in fruit; corolla 2-lipped, ‘ blue shaded mauve lilac’ (Gamble) ; upper lip
obovate, longer than the calyx lobe, 6 mm. long; lower lip broadly
orbicular, pubescent near the throat, 7 mm. long in the North Kanara
Specimens; spur conical, curved outwards, about as long as the lower
lip and larger than the calyx lobes. Stamens 2, on the upper lip;
filaments broad; anthers 2-celled, connivent; ovary lenticular; style
short. Capsule lenticular, enclosed by the enlarged calyx lobes, 2-3 mm. °
long ; seeds subglobose, scrobiculate.
Sedgwick 4469, collected in Oct. 1918 at Devarayi, near Londa in
North Kanara.
The flowers in Sedgwick 4469 are decidedly smaller than those shown
in Wight’s Icon No. 1577 ; the seeds in Wight’s picture are more reticu-
late than scrobiculate. It was probably this that Jed Clarke to reduce
this species to varietal rank ; a careful examination of the seeds has shown
to us that the reticulate ridges do surround scrobiculations.
3, Chirita hamosa R, Br. var. wunifolia Clarke in Hook. f. Fl.
Brit. Ind. 4: 361, 1884 (Plate III). Gesneriaceae.
There has been a good deal of discussion regarding the validity
ofthe genus Chzrita Buch.-Ham. as distinct from Didymocarpus Wall.
The latter was said to possess an entzve stigma and the former a Jdzlobed
one. ‘The variations that appear with advancing age of the flower and
the ambiguity of the terms have created much difficulty. Clarke
acknowledged the distinctions between the two genera as unsatisfactory,
but refrained from fusing them into one. Otto Kuntze in 1891 fused the two
genera into one, under the name of Aoettlera Vahl. The problem has
been reconsidered by B. L. Burtt, who advocates the retention of the two
separate genera. He has redefined the ‘entire’ stigma of a species of
Didymocarpus sect. Eudidymocar pus as a robust capitate structure, whilst
the ‘ bilobed ’ stigma of a typical CAzrzta is oblique, bifid and thin; the
emphasis seems to be on the oblique and slender nature of the stigma
4
212 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
rather than on its bilobed appearance. We have followed Burtt in keeping
the two genera separate. (Burtt in Votes R. Bot. Gard. Edinburgh 21:
185-209, 1954).
The variety untfolta described here is quite unlike the typical Chirita
hamosa in that it possesses a single leaf; the floral structure is the same
in both plants.
Annual herbs. Steves slender, erect or curved, glabrous or sparingly
pilose, 3-6 cm. long. Leaf solitary, shortly petioled, ovate, entire or
slightly crenate, weakly hairy on both surfaces, penninerved, 6x4 to
15x 8 cms.; secondary nerves 10-16 pairs. Jnflorescence of about 6
flowers in the leaf axil; pedicels all connate at the base for about 1mm.,
then fused in pairs for about 3 mm.; their free portions 1 cm. long, his-
pidulous ; calyx 7-8 mm. long, tubular, hispiduious; lobes 5, linear-
lanceolate, free for about half their length, persistent ; corolla 1°5 cms.
long, 2-lipped; tube slender; mouth ‘pale blue or rosy’ (Clarke);
stamens 2 or rarely 3 fertile, epipetalous ; anther cells entire, oblique,
connate at the apex ; staminodes usually 2, filiform ; ovary hispid, 3 mm.
long ; style slender, 7 mm, long, hispid ; stigma bifid. Capsule glabrous,
except at the tip near the persistent style, straight or highly curved ;
seeds many, small, ellipsoid.
~ TR. D. Bell 3171 in Herb. Sedgwick, collected in North Kanara in
1917. The specimen is preserved in Blatter Herbarium, but bears no
further indication of the exact locality where the plant was collected.
4, Didymocarpus pygmaea Clarke in DC. Mon. Phan. 5(1): 82,
1883, et in Hook. f. Fl. Brit. Ind. 4 : 345, 1884; Haines, Bot.
Bih. and Or. 648; Gamble, Fl. Madr. 988; Burtt in Votes R. Bot.
Gardn, Edinb. 21 : 202, 1954 (Plate IV). Gesneriac.
Roettlera pygmaca O. K. Rev. Gen. Pl. 2 : 476, 1891.
The name Dzdymocarpus Wall. 1819, is nom. cons. against Roettlera
Vahl, 1805, and is listed in the Intern. Code of Bot. Nomencl. under
No. 7810. |
Annual pubescent herbs. SZems slender, curved or straight 3-7 cms.
high. Leaves usually solitary, rarely two or more smaller ones are borne
on a prolongation of the stem, sessile, ovate to ovate-oblong, penninerved,
membranaceous, glistening and hairy on the upper side, hairy along the
nerves on the lower side, 3-9 cms. long; apex obtuse ; base shallowly
cordate ; secondary nerves 6-9, prominently arched. /lowers 4 or more,
fascicled, arising from the base of the leaf ; bracts usuaily small, near the
outermost pedicel, sometimes larger and leaf-like, up to 4 cms. long;
pedicels free, 1-3 mm. long in flower, up to 5 mm. in fruit, hairy ; calyx
tubular, hairy; 5-lobed, divided almost to the base, 3 mm. iene in flower,
up to 5 mm. long in fruit ; sepals linear-lanceolate, 3 mm. long, some-
what enlarged in fruit; corolla tubular, white, 4 mm. long, pubescent
externally in the limb, unopened in our specimens. from Pavagadh.
Stamens 2 fertile; anther cells oval, oblique, confluent at the top;
filaments in the unopened flowers flexed near the base; staminodes 2,
inserted -a little lower than the stamens, filiform, 1 mm. long ; ovary
oblong, hairy, 1 mm. long ; style reflexed in the unopened flowers, 3 mm.
long, hairy; stigma funnel-shaped, not oblique. Capsules straight
elongated, cylindrical, hispid, surmounted by the remnants of the style,
2-valved, 15-2 cms. long; seeds ellipsoid, punctate.
UN aLvig
KAIED °° SOPOUIUIeJs puv SUSTIR]S GUM BI[OIOD "A :yuvid anjogq ¥Y
dyIP[.) pyofiun "IBA DSOUDY VDItALY)
"gun Z t
nen nana.
"208 “ISIHD “Ven Avquiog ‘uanor
Journ, Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. Pirate IV
2 ems.
WE E
Didymocarpus pygmaea Clarke:
A. Entire plant; B, Corolla with stamens and staminodes; C.:Calyx “with
ovary, style and stigma; D, Seeds (highly magnified); E. Stigma (highly
magnified),
Journ, Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. PLATE V
1/2,
IG
(eee th ee
| oy LG ms:
Jerdonia indica Wight
_ &k Entire piant; B. Corolla with stamens (Adapted from Wight); C. Calyx with
disc, ovary, style and stigma (Adapted from Wight); D. Capsule; E, Seed with funicle,
han cle ar
f i ad ett
Si wa Woh ee ite ae
BN a
ba
NEW PLANT RECORDS FOR BOMBAY—III 213
A peculiar floral structure was observed in two flowers of a specimen
collected from Pavagadh on the 29th December 1954. One of the
flowers had 6 epipetalous stamens with small dehisced anther cells.
There were three ovaries. Of these one was completely free while the
other two were slightly adnate at the base. The styles were entirely free.
The stigmata, although basically of normal structure, were split in the
middle so as to appear bilobed. ‘The other flower of the same plant had
4 epipetalous stamens and 4 others slightly adnate to the two distinct
ovaries. ‘The plant bore 3 fruits which, though stunted, appeared to be of
normal structure.
A careful search on two different occasions has yielded only cleistoga-
mous flowers ; this confirms the observations of Haines; but we have
failed to find the bulbils mentioned by the same author.
Saldanha 1782-1786 of 13th October 1954, and Saldanha 2200 of 29th
December 1954; collected from the fort walls at Pavagadh near Baroda.
5. Jerdonia indica Wight, Icon. t. 1352, 1850; Clarke in DC. Mon.
Phan. 5 (1): 164, 1883 & in Hook. f. Fl. Brit. Ind. 4: 368, 1884 ;
Gamble, FJ. Madr. 991, 1924 (Plate V). Gesneriac.
Perennial, acaulescent, scapigerous herbs. Aoofstock thick, scarred,
bearing numerous secondary roots, 6-25 cms. long. Leaves crowded at the
base ; petioles long, grooved, rusty-villous, 4-13 cms. long; leaf-blade
elliptic to ovate, sparingly rusty-villous on the upper side especially when
young, prominently rugose-pilose along the margins and along the nerves
on the lower side, reticulately veined, 4 x 3to9 x 6cms.; secondary
nerves about 8 pairs. Scapes few, slender, sparingly rugose-pilose ; bracts
sublinear, rusty-villous, 2 mm. long ; pedicels hairy, often in pairs, 5 mm.
long in flower, 7 mm. long in fruit ; calyx -t 5-partite, 5mm. long; lobes
lanceolate, rusty-villous; corolla ‘ pale lilac marked with red lines,
(Gamble), 1:7 cms. long ; tube elongate, swollen upwards; limb oblique,
2-lipped ; upper lip 2-lobed, emarginate; lower lip 3-lobed; stamens 4,
all fertile; anterior filaments dilated, spurred, sparingly hairy; posterior
pair also ‘dilated and hairy but not spurred; anthers 2-celled, cohering. at
their apices so as to cover the stigma; disc-cup-shaped; ovary ovoid,
_ glabrous; style linear, glabrous ; stigma peltate. Capsule ovoid, puberu-
lous, loculicidal, 2-valved, 5 mm. in diameter; seeds small, ellipsoid,
laterally grooved, sub-umbonate at the apex; funicle prominent and
white.
Wight’s. figure shows a number of adventitious roots arising from the
base of the stem. All the specimens in Blatter Herbarium, however,
have a prominent rootstock giving rise to secondary roots. We have
adapted the description of the corolla, stamens and ovary from Wight,
since all our specimens are only in fruit.
Haliberg and McCann 34539, 34540, 34542 and Sedgwick 6786
from Sampkhand, North Kanara; collected in Oct,1919. Sedgwick and
Bell 7224 from Malemane Ghat, North Kanara, October 1919.
NEW PLANT RECORDS FOR BOMBAY--IV
BY
H. SANTAPAU, S.J.
(With four plates)
This is a further continuation of the series of new records of plants for
Bombay State. In the course of the last few years we have been conduc-
ting a very intense exploration of various parts of the State. A good
number of research students have been helping in this investigation, and
have helped in the preparation of this note; their names are appended
after each plant mentioned in the body of this paper, so that credit may
go to them for the good work they have done. The line diagrams have
been drawn from the fresh plants, and represent what to our mind are the
typical characters of the plant in question.
1. Uraria hamosa Wall. Cat. 5681 B, 1831-32; Wight et Arn.
Prodr. 222, 1834; Wight, Icon. t. 284; Fl. Brit. Ind. 2: 156
(Plate I).
Hedysarum hamosum Roxb. Hort. Beng. 57, 1814, nom. nud.
Doodia hamosa Roxb. FI. Ind. 3: 367, 1832.
Desmodium hamosum “Loud. Hort. Brit. 310, 1830.
Uvaria desmodioides & U. lanceolata Grah. in Wall. Cat. 5682-
5683, 1831-32.
Erect shrubs or undershrubs, 122-275 cms. high, branching profu-
sely ; stems woody, solid, angled, minutely hispid, the hairs slightly hook-
ed. Leaves uni- and tri-foliate on the same plant; leaflets 4-11°5 x 2:2—
6°5 cms., elliptic or broadly ovate, acute, mucronate or emarginate, base
cordate or rounded, nerves 9-16 on either side of the central main
nerve, upper side of leaflet glabrescent, lower one densely pubescent
especially along the midrib ; stipules 0-4—2:1 cms. long, deltoid-cuspidate,
densely hairy persistent ; stipels 0°3-0°6 cms. long, hairy, lanceolate ;
petioles 1°8-3°8 cms. long, grooved on the upper side, hispid; petiolules
0:2-0°4 cms. long, slightly swollen, hispid. Flowers in racemes, which
are 10-30 cms. iong, axillary, lateral or terminal, hispid, panicled. Flowers
2-4 in distant fascicles; bracts ovate, cuspidate, pubescent, caducous ;
pedicels 0°2-0°5 cms. long, incurved at the apex, hispid. Calyx 0°2-0'3
cms, long, not longer than the first joint of the pod, campanulate, hairy ;
teeth 5, subequal, deltoid-cuspidate, the lower 2 joined and short. Covolla
mauve, exserted, 0°3-J'6 cms. long. Stamens 9 +1, alternating long and
short ; anthers uniform. Ovary sessile; style nearly twice as long as
the stamens persistent in fruit ; stigma broad. fod twisted, 4—7-jointed,
joints alternate brown and black, minutely hispid.
The pod is the most typical part of the plant, and in every respect
resembles the other species of Bombay. It is indeed: remarkable that the
plant has not been described before for Bombay ; it seems to be widespread
in the State, as the following list of herbarium specimens examined by us
will show: North Kanara, 7. 2. D. Bell 2520, May 1917 ; Salsette Island,
Santapau 995, 997 from Makal Caves near Andheri, Sept. 1942; Dangs
rn, Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. Pirate |
. 7 Uraria hamosa Wall.
A, Fruiting branch; 3B, Flowers, front and side view; C. Fruit.
Journ. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. Pratké IT
Merremia quinquefolia Hall. f.
A. Branch with inflorescence; B. Sepals showing the outer surface; C. Corolla with
stamens; D. Ovary with pedicel and bracts; E, Fruit; F. Seed from the inner surface.
NEW PLANT BECORDS FOR BOMBAY—IV 215
Forest, Saztafau 17338-17339, Nov. 1953; Waghai in the Dangs,
Panthaki 1726-1729, 19th Oct. 1954; Sasurda, Panthaki 1748, 20th Oct.
1954.
The plant has been found to be common in clearings in the Dangs
Forest, and along the railway line. It has been seen nearer Bombay in
the undergrowth of thin deciduous forest.
(Miss) D. P. PANTHAKI, B.SC.
2, Merremia quinquefolia (Linn.) Hall. f. in Bot. Jahvb. 16: 552,
1893; Ooststroom in Blumea 3: 324, 1939 et in FI. Males.
4 (4): 446, f. 28, 1953. (Plate IL).
Ipomoea guinguefolta Linn. Sp. Pl. 162, 1753.
Convolvulus guinguefolius Linn, Syst. ed. 10, 923, 1759.
A herbaceous climber. Stems slender, twining, terete, glabrous or
sparsely hairy, not thickened at the nodes. Leaves alternate, petiloate,
palmately compound; petioles 3-5 cms. long, slender, glabrous and
faintly grooved on the upper side; leaflets sessile or subsessile, glabrous,
narrowly oblong to lanceolate, 2-6 x 0:5-1°5 cms., attenuated at the base
and apex; apex acute to subacuminate or often obtuse; margins irregu-
larly serrate, coarsely dentate or undulate or nearly entire. Inflorescence
axillary, cymose, 1- or often 3-5-flowered ; peduncles about as long as the
petioles, but elongating in fruit, 3-5-7 cms. long, branching, glandular and ~
slightly hirsute towards the apex, the branches also glandular. Flowers
pedicellate, bracteate, creamy yellow in colour; floral buds ovate, acute ;
pedicels glabrous, 3-7 mm. long, extending to 10 mm. and becoming
somewhat thicker at the apex in fruit ; bracts triangular, acute or acumi-
nate, about 1 mm. long. Calyx tubular; sepals 5, narrowly ovate, elon-
gated, acute, mucronulate, glabrous, subequal, the outer 2 slightly shorter
than the inner ones; outer sepals 4-6 mm., inner ones 8-9 mm. long,
somewhat enlarged in fruit. Covolla creamy yellow, 16-20 mm. long,
infundibuliform, 15 mm. in diameter, with lineate, glabrous corolla bands
and shallowly lobed; corolla tube glabrous. Stamens 5, subequal,
epipetalous, inserted about 3 mm. above the base of the corolla ; filaments
dilated and hairy at the base ; anthers some times spirally twisted. Ovary
glabrous, style 1 cm. long; stigma 2-lobed, the lobes globose. Capszle
straw-coloured, globose, 4-celled, 1 cm. in diameter. Seeds 4, each about
4 mm. long, brown or black, covered with short, appressed, curly hairs.
This plant is being reported now for the first time from Western
India. In point of fact, however, it is quite a common plant, though in
Blatter Herbarium many of the specimens of this species have been
placed under 17. tridentata Hall. f. or 17, aegyptia Urban, or under various
species of /Aomoea, particularly 7. dzssecta, which it much resembles.
We have examined the following specimens from Western India:
SAURASHTRA: Sasangir, in the Gir Forest, Sani/apau 15152 ;
Dwarka, Dhruna 12; Rajkot, Santapau 13559 and 16885.
RAJPUTANA: Abu Road, Blatter 22133.
SoutTH GUJERAT: Baroda, Patel 1176-1180; Pavagadh Hill, near
Baroda, Patel 1190-1192.
KonxAN: Thana, from a garden, Patel 1323-1328 ; noe ue
Ackland 1447 and Blatter 14550.
(Miss) V. PATEL, B.SC.
216 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
3: gaa repandum Willd. Sp. Pl. 3 : 1767, 1804 ; DC. Prod.
: 45, 1836 (Plate III).
F ae Compositae. An annual, erect undershrub, 50-75 cms, high.
Szems branched, terete, pubescent. Leaves opposite and decussate, shortly
petiolate, lanceolate-elliptic or ovate-elliptic, acute or shortly acuminate,
4—7 x 1°5-3°5 cms., glabrous on the upper, silky pubescent on the lower
side; the lower leaves deeply sinuate-dentate, the upper ones shallowly
serrate-dentate ; base tapering into the short petiole. Heads homogamous.
about 1 cm. long, cylindric, arranged in terminal corymbs; peduncles
1-5 cms. long, hairy. J/zvolucre multiseriate, the innermost series of
bracts the longest ; all the bracts oblong-lanceolate, obtuse, 3-nerved from
the base, scarious, varying in length 2-7 mm.; receptacle convex, pitted,
naked. FVorets all bisexual. Pappus 1]-seriate, consisting of numerous
setose hairs about as long as the corolla tube. Covollas tubular, white to
pale violet ; tube 4-5 mm. long, narrow ; lobes 5, triangular-ovate, acute,
pubescent outside, 1-2 mm long. Stamens 5; anther bases sagittate ;
auricles narrow, obtuse. Siyle arms 2, very long and far exserted,
subulate and hairy. Achenes black, hispid on the angles, 4-5 mm. long,
crowned with the pappus. |
_ This is a Central American plant, that has been found growing
probably as an escape near gardens at the entrance to the National Park,
Borivili, near Bombay. Aanderia 577, collected in flower on December
12th, 1943.
(Miss) A. J. RANDERIA, M.Sc.
4, Hymienatherum tenuifolium Cass, Dict. 22 : 313, sete ep
7 DC. Prodr. 5 : 642, 1836. (Plate IV).
Family Compositae. An annual erect herb, 15-20 cms. high. Stems
cylindrical or subquadrangular, simple or hrenchedl obscurely ribbed,
finely pubescent with short minute hairs. Leaves sessile, the upper ones
aiternate, the lower ones more or less opposite, all deeply pinnatisect,
2-5x1-3 cms., lobes opposite, more or less filiform, glabrous or
puberulous. //eads heterogamous, rayed, about 2 cms. in diameter,
terminal ; peduncles bracteate or naked, 5-9 cms. long, generally glab-
rous; bracts 2-3 mm. long, lanceolate-subulate. Jnvolucres uniseriate ;
involucral bracts partially connate at the base, oblong-cuneate, 3-lobed
at the apex, 6-7 x 3-4 mm., ciliate at the margins, reticulateiy veined ;
receptacle naked. Pappus copious, l-seriate, consisting of setose unequal
hairs about as long as the corolla tube. Covollas yellow; those of
hermaphrodite florets tubular, their tubes uniformly dilated upwards,
glabrous, 2-3 mm. long; lobes 5, ovate, acute, spreading, more or less
1 mm. in length ; corollas of female florets ligulate, 3-notched at the apex,
6-9 x 1:5-2°5 mm. Stamens 5; anther bases obtuse or slightly tailed.
Siyle arms 2; those of hermaphrodite florets ciliate and truncate at apex;
those of female florets subulate, glabrous. Achenes oblong, angled and
ribbed, black, hispidly hairy, 3-4 mm. long.
This herb is original of Central America, and has been found in the
Krishnagiri National Park, Borivili, near Bombay, growing not far from
the entrance to the Park; it has been seen in flower and fruit during the
rains and seems to be well established on Pavilion Hill of the Park.
Randerta 57, collected on 23rd August 1951, and Randeria 441,
collected on.7th October 1952.
(Miss) A. J. RANDERIA, M.Sc,
Pirate III
Journ. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
‘
Eupatorium repandam Willd.
Achene.
C,
B. Floret ;
A. Flowering branch ;
Journ, Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Hymenatherum tenutfolium Cass.
Prate IV
A. Flowering branch; B. Involucral bract; C. Disc floret; D. Ray floret; KE, Acheue.
TROUT FISHING IN KASHMIR
BY
PuHiItie K. CrRoWE
It was difficult to improve on the fabulous Himalayan pleasure land of
Kashmir, but two men succeeded in doing it. The Mogul Emperor
Jehangir built the lovely Shalimar, and an Englishman named: Mitchell
imported brown trout. The result is that today one can wander among
the flowers and fountains of the famous garden by the Dal Lake or, as
I prefer, angle along some of the world’s most sporting and spectacular
streams and rivers.
Simply getting to Kashmir from the Island of Ceylon, where we now
live, took a bit of doing. The distance from Colombo at 6° north latitude
to Srinagar, capital of Kashmir, at 34° north is 1,848 miles but, as we were
tied to commercial air travel, the trip was nearly a quarter longer. Flying
first to Bombay and then to Delhi, where we spent the night as guests of
Ambassador Cooper and his attractive wife, we finally took off on Indian
Airlines for the flight to the Vale of Kashmir. From Jammu, the last air-
field in the plains of India, we climbed rapidly (without pressurized cabin
or oxygen) and sailed over the nine thousand foot Banihal Pass. On
either flank snow-capped peaks towered over us, while below, like the teeth
of a vast brown shark, lay other jagged summits. Our enjoyment of this
superb vista was somewhat lessened by the knowledge that if the pilot
found fog at the end of the pass he would have to turn around and return
to Jammu. We were lucky, and, though we coasted through a white
blanket of cloud for a few minutes, it soon tore apart and we looked down
on the sparkling valley that is the Vale of Kashmir. Emerald green
paddy, and fields of crimson poppies and yellow mustard, lay spread below
like some gorgeous tapestry. Well did the Mogul Emperor cry, -‘ If
there be paradise on earth, this is it, this is it, this is it.’
We—my wife Irene and my daughter Rene and I—were met at the
airport by G. M. Butt, a cordial white-bearded Kashmiri whose house boat,
the Clermont we were to make our base during our 17 days stay in
Kashmir. I might add that Mr. Butt specializes in Americans, having had
Adlai Stevenson and George Allen, former Ambassador to India, as his
guests. What is more, his boats, moored on the edge of the Dal Lake, are
extremely comfortable and his food excellent. Said Mr. Stevenson in
the guest book ‘ an enchanted. interlude that mended body and mind.’
Kashmir has some three hundred miles of trout water ranging from
altitudes of above eight thousand feet to about five thousand. Most of
these streams are within sixty miles of Srinagar and are laid out in ‘ beats’
or two-mile stretches, which can be rented from the Government. There
are other streams, however, that were formerly the private preserves of
Maharaja Hari Singh and are now reserved for State guests.
The best of these—the Tricker, the Nambal, and part of the Liddar—
are located in the lovely Liddar Valley and provide some nineteen miles
ofsuperb fishing. There are also certain very good streams such as the
Kukernag and the Kotsu, in the Liddar Valley, and the Verinag in an
adjoining valley where the fishing, open to the public on a limited basis, is
218 HORCDRIN AE, IOV BYVAL S INCA ICO geal, Jalil, SOUCINB IY, Wolk, (683
very good. ‘The last category of streams are those open to the public at
all times and include most of the Liddar, and the Bringhi in the same
general area—about fifty miles southeast of Srinagar—as the streams
mentioned above. Northwest of the capital is the famous Sindh River
where there ate a number of good public beats, and near the mountain resort
of Gulmarg, twenty miles from Srinagar, is the Tanmarg, which holds
some good fish even though the altitude is over eight thousand feet. The
Kuragbal district in the far north of the state is closed as it runs along the
Pak-Indian cease-fire line and the Madmatti and Erin streams, which lie
south of it and empty into Wular Lake, the largest fresh water lake in
India, have not yet recovered from the disruption following the invasion
of the tribesmen during the partition troubles of 1947. There is also said
to be some good public fishing near Vishensar, but the trek to it takes
several days on ponies.
Through the kindness of His Exceliency Sri ‘Chakravarty, High Com-
missioner of India in Ceylon, a wire was sent in my behalf and, when I
called on Mr. G. M. Malik, chief of the Fish Preservation Me paremene of
Kashmir, I was told that I would be allowed to fish in some of the reserved
waters as well as the public ones. Col. Harry Nedou also wrote for me to
Wazir Amin Chand, Controller of the Household of His Highness the
Yuvaraj. Another friend who went out of his way to help me arrange
my Kashmir fishing was F. C. Badhwar, former Chairman of the Indian
Railway Board and one of the keenest fishermen I know. Also most
useful from a fishing standpoint was a book called ‘Kashmir Cameos’
written by my friend H. C. Hockley of Ceylon.
On the crystal clear morning of Friday, May 13, 19 55, we took off in
an old Chevrolet station wagon for Verinag, a stream some forty-seven
miles south of Srinagar. Wehad been unable to book the government
rest heuse there so decided to camp out, and our tents and camp fur-
niture were piled on the roof of the car. Momdu, Mr. Butt’s number one
servant and a shikari with a great deal of camping experience, was in
charge. There was also Sultana, the cook, and Mohamed, the chauffeur.
The road to Verinag is the road to Jammu and runs straight down the
Vale of Kashmir to the Banihal Pass where we swing left instead of
continuing over the pass into Jammu. Fora great deal of the way pop-
lars line the road and the fields on either side were ablaze with poppies
and blue and white iris marking Moslem graveyards. We passed herds
of sheep and goats, tended by wild-looking men from the mountains,
and once a gypsy encampment with the curious little igloo-shaped felt
tents that are the homes of gypsies in this part of Asia.
As we passed through the mountain terrain just below the Banihal
Pass we saw some dangerous washouts. Twenty years ago when I
made the trip over this pass in a model T Ford the road was so bad that
we took three days to do the trip and barely crawled around the corners.
It is because it is so difficult to maintain the road in avalanche country
that the Indian government is now engaged in building a tunnel under
the mountain that will allow year-round surface access to the Valley. RHE SOCTEDY:S ELBRAR Y. 251
addenda by P. F. Mattingly). By G. H. E. Hopkins (British Museum of
Natural History, 1952).
2. A CRICACAO DE ABELHAS INDIGENAS SEM FERRA (MELIPO-
NINAE)—The rearranging of stingless Bees, Meliponinae (in Portuguese).
By Paulo Nogueira Neto (Editorial Chacaras e Quintias, Sao Paulo, Brasil, ‘
9 S))
| 3. EXPLORATION FawcetTT. By Lt-Col. P. H. Fawcett (Hutchinson,
seventh impression, 1953).
4. THE PocKET GUIDE TO BirDS— How to identify and enjoy them.
By Ailan Cruickshank (Pocket Book Inc., New York, 1954).
5. I Planted Trees. By Richard St. Barbe Baker, For. Dip.
(Cantab.) (Lutterworth Press, London and Redhill). 7
6. YELLOW FEVER. Edited by George K. Strode, m.p. (McGraw-
Hiil Company, Inc., Bombay, New York, ‘Toronto, London, 1951).
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
1, A NEW SPECIES OF LANGUR IN ASSAM
(With a sketch map)
For many years a golden-coloured langur has been noticed on the
eastern bank of the Sankosh River in Assam, near the Bhutan border.
It had been seen by several tea-planter naturalists in the Bengal
Dooars, and was known to them as the ‘Sankosh Langur’.
In particular, H. E. Tyndale and A. V. Pullan mentioned the
existence of this langur to me several years ago, and they referred
to the extraordinary fact that it had never been seen on the Bengal
side of the Sankosh River, which forms the boundary between Assam
and Bengal. Nor had it been seen near the Raidak River, which
is the next river to the west of the Sankosh.
4 BH ur WN
z RK KuRAKSRAN
NS
Scekel-ca7Mites
Known RANGE of PResaymss Geer
I looked for this golden langur while I was up the Manas River
in November 1949, and again in February/March 1952, but without
success though I found a troupe of Capped Langurs, Trachypithecus
pileatus (Blyth), on the 1952 trip and was able to cine film them.
In November 1953 I made a trip with friends to the rivers Aie and
Sankosh. While staying at the Jamduar Forest Rest House on the
Sankosh, near the Bhutan border, I was able to observe and film in
colour these golden or ‘Sankosh’ langurs on November 17th, 20th and
2st. On 17th I came across a troupe of them rather suddenly on a
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 253
hillside near the river, about two miles north of the bungalow, and
saw about 12 langurs though there may have been more.
On 20th and 21st a troupe of them was encountered about one
mile north of the bungalow numbering 30 to 4o, feeding on the fruit
(and leaves?) of Terminalia belerica—local names bohora and bhamra.
They were shy creatures and usually kept some 70-80 feet distant,
often remaining in the shade. At one time I told my two men to
wait motionless while I tried to film two or three of these golden
langurs a short distance away. Then followed a great commotion,
and I saw a very large langur, possibly the leader, swing down branch
by branch till it was only a few feet away from my men, who were
very scared but remained in the same spot. Apparently this was a
‘sabre-rattling’ or feint attack, as the langur quickly returned to the
tree-tops.
Two of my companions on this trip, while fishing on the Sankosh,
told me they saw another troupe of these golden langurs some four
or five miles downstream, actually on the river bed crossing from a
chapori (island) as they bounded across the stones and disappeared
into the forest.
I have been informed by B. Mitchell, who has camped in many
parts of that district of Assam, that he has seen a troupe of 40-50
of these golden langurs close to the Jamduar bungalow, and smaller
troupes about five miles to the south, and very small troupes of 10-15
still further away to the south-west, near the Raimona Forest Rest
House. He has also, he says, seen a troupe of about 25 of them on
the west bank of the Ranga River, but none to the east of the
Ranga.
All the places referred to above, which comprise the known range
of this golden langur, are within an area of not more than about 56
square miles, extending from the east bank of the Sankosh River to
the west bank of the Ranga River, and from the Sankosh-Raimona
road in the south to the Bhutan border (or further?) in the north.
As for a general description, these golden langurs appear to be
similar to other langurs, except that the tail is longer and slightly
tassellated and the coat is an almost uniform deep cream colour in dul!
light and bright golden in sunlight. The face is black. The coat
down the sides, where the hair is longer, appears sometimes to be
darker, almost red in colour. The young appear to be similar to the
adults, though perhaps a little lighter in colour.
I was not able to secure any still photographs of these langurs,
but succeeded in taking about 7o feet of 16 mm. colour cine film of
them as they moved about the tree-tops.
In August 1954 I reported the existence of these golden langurs
to Dr. W. C. Osman Hill of the Zoological Society of London, a
leading authority on the Primates, and he considered that they might
be a new species. Again I reported their existence to the Zoological
Survey of India in January 1955, and I suggested that their Survey
Party, then working in Bengal, should visit Jamduar in order to collect
specimens for identification.
This Survey Party led by Mr. H. Khajuria duly visited the area
and collected six specimens in April of this year, and the description
254 JOURNAL, VBOMBAY NATRU RAL ETSI “SOCIED Ya. Viola 53
and report of this Party is now awaited with interest, as this golden
langur may be a species entirely new to science.
OaTING P.O.,
ASSAM, Do IP, (GIB IN
August 11, 1955.
[We understand from Mr. Khajuria of the Zoological Survey of
- India that his description of this new species of langur, which he has
named Presbytis geei, will shortly be published in Annals and Magazine
of Natural History—Eps. |
2. MONKEYS AND PANTHER
With reference to the first Miscellaneous Note in Volume 52, No. 4,
the following extract from an account in my diary of what appears
to be another good example of ‘mass hysteria’ amongst langurs in
ithe presence of panther may be of interest to readers of the Journal.
It refers to an incident near Tanakpur which I recorded in November
nO39:
‘Late one afternoon I was sauntering quietly down a jungle path
near the forest edge. Suddenly I froze in my tracks, for meandering
towards me was a really fine chital stag. I hadn’t the slightest wish
to shoot him; rather did I feel like bursting into laughter for he was
mooning along the path seemingly without a care in the world, occa-
sionally inclining his aristocratic head to one side or the other as if he
were aware of its beauty; occasionally he nuzzled a strand of grass
leaning across his path. He was not forty yards away, yet quite oblivious
of my presence and so taken up with his dreaming that he performed
a little sideways dance, lowered his head in mock battle, and then
walked on as nonchalantly as before. His preoccupation was quite
ludicrous to see, but it might well have proved his undoing.
Some fifteen yards to his left was a narrow belt of shisham trees,
near the summits of which a dozen or so langurs were nibbling the
young shoots and watching my movements with but little concern.
On the chital’s immediate right was a wall of tall thatching grass
seven or eight feet high and stretching back some fifty yards to the
edge of the sal trees. Without a moment’s notice pandemonium broke
loose amongst the monkeys. Never was such unbridled panic, and
why they forsook the safety of the shisham trees God alone knows.
With volleys of grunts, squeals, and frenzied chatterings they burst
in all directions like a startled covey of quail, surged across the path
and through the tall grass in an effort to reach the main forest. So
taken up was I with this amazing stampede that for an instant I
forgot the stag. When once more I glanced down the path, he had
melted from my ken. But even as I pondered on his disappearance,
from out the elephant-grass there burst through the clamour an awe-
inspiring sigh. I can only describe it as a sigh, a sigh which was
indeed all breath and little noise and yet seemed to shake the air.
[t was followed (or was it preceded?—in the confusion I forget which)
= dh
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 955
by the agonized scream of a dying langur. In the excitement of the
moment I pushed a little way through the cover in the direction of
a tall anthill. Discretion quickly sent me back to the path, for a low
growl, too imperative to disregard and too near for comfort, warned
me not to interfere.
Much had been enacted before my very eyes, and even more had
come to my ears, yet the correct interpretation of those crowded
moments probably eludes me. Is it not possible that one of a pair
of leopards, from beyond the shisham trees, caused those foolish
monkeys to run in terror from his presence while his mate lay ready
in the concealing grass? At any rate, I like to think that the chital
stag had no place in the violence of that scene; he was far too happy
and beautiful.’
HAYBARN,
THURSLEY, Reon heb AMES,
SURREY. Tneut.-Col., 1.4. (Retd.).
September 25, 1955.
> Wiplls, IBIKEVCIL IB, ADIKE BIR
On a nearby tea estate there have been, recently, two unusual
cases of a tiger attacking people on bicycles in daylight. The first
occurred some two months ago when a Dispenser of the estate was |
‘knocked off his machine by a large tiger which sprang out from the tea
which borders the road. He was virtually unhurt, but the cycle tyres
were ripped—presumably by the animal’s claws.
The second ‘assault’ took place on t1oth September, 1955. The
Manager was peacefully riding along a road which borders some
abandoned tea, 1.e-, the bushes have been allowed to grow unpruned
and unplucked, when he was startled by a squeal which came from
the other side of the road. He stopped to investigate and at the
same: instant, ‘a huge tiger emerged from the abandoned tea and
approached me at a crouching run. I pedalled off as fast as I could
with the tiger effortlessly keeping pace behind. After going a few
yards I began to shout. Then I fell off. I don’t remember anything
more until I “‘came round’’ to see some labourers bending over me.
Apparently, on hearing my shouts, they came in my direction and the
tiger made off.’
The Manager was also almost unscathed, but the cycle tyres were
again ripped by the animal. The only really satisfactory explanation
for these two attacks appears to be of a psychological nature. That
the tiger harbours a phobia against cycles seems likely—in particular
against the admirable products of M/s. Dunlop, Firestone, etc.,
for in both instances he could have killed both men with very little
trouble, yet he seems to have concerned himself solely with the machine.
His actions were, apparently, unprovoked as the source of ‘the squeal’
was not discovered. In the case of the Dispenser, the only sound
emanated from himself!
256 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
There is another explanation, however, which should be taken with
raised eyebrows, I’ think. Ten years ago the previous Manager of
the estate, a man of generous proportions, was reported to have
bumped into a tiger whilst riding his cycle. Elephants are said to
never forget, but tigers, well... ?
KHARIKATIA T.E. & P.O.,
ASSAM, J. H. BURNETT
September 12, 1955.
4. WILD ANIMALS IN THE ANDAMAN ISLANDS
The only wild animals in the Andamans at present are Chital and
Pig. Chital were introduced in the Andamans some 25 to 30 years
ago with the object of creating a source of meat for those who have
to live and work in the forest. They are now, however, classed as
pests, as they have increased and multiplied beyond all measure and
are destroying the seedlings of valuable commercial trees in our re-
generation areas. To counteract them, two female panthers were intro-
duced in the Andamans during the year 1952-53, but their activities
‘cannot so far be judged.
Port BLarr,
ANDAMANS. J. BANERJI, 1.F-s.,
August 3, 1955. Chief Conservator of Forests.
5. GREAT INDIAN ONE-HORNED RHINOCEROS
(R. UNICORNIS LINN.) COW WITH (PRESUMPTIVE)
TWIN CALVES
On July 24th 1955 at about 2.30 p.m. I set out from Kaziranga
village on the elephant ‘Deokali,’ accompanied by Choudhuri, the
Forest Guard. It was my intention to visit the nearest part of
Kaziranga Sanctuary, which is about one mile away at this point.
As we approached the Mora Difloo stream, which forms the southern
boundary. of the Sanctuary, we observed at a distance two or three
rhino grazing in the Sanctuary beyond, in a grassy clearing locally
known as a ‘doloni’.
We eventually arrived at the bank of the stream, and at a distance
of only about sixty yards gazed at the rhino. There were three of
them: a mother with her calf close to her, and about twelve or fifteen
yards away to the left another calf—presumably without its mother.
We looked around for the mother of the lone calf, but there was no
other rhino in that place.
As we discussed the problem of how this lone calf came to be
there, the young creature itself solved it for us. It heard us talking,
looked up and then immediately ran to join the mother and the other
calf. Then it dawned on me that this must be the first case of an
Indian rhino ever being seen with twin calves.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 957
We had ample opportunity of closely observing the cow with her
two calves, for they remained in the same spot for some fifteen minutes.
The calves were about three years old, and were of identically the
same height and shape. They roamed together round the mother as
she continued to graze, and we were able to observe them facing us,
side view and rear view. As there was no other rhino in the place
at that time, there can be little doubt that it was in fact a case of
twin calves.
Most unfortunately it had been raining slightly all day, and so I
had come out for once without a camera. In order to obtain more
witnesses, if that were necessary, we called up several villagers who
were fishing and herding their cattle nearby, just outside the Sanctuary.
They came along, looked and confirmed without hesitation what we
had noted—that here was a cow rhino with twin calves.
Eventually the mother rhino became a little nervous at the sight
of so many of us, and walked away into the tall elephant-grass. The
two calves followed close at heel and disappeared from view. I advised
the Forest Guard to keep a careful look-out for further appearances
of this unique family party.
Several cases have been recorded of twins being born to an Indian
elephant; but as far as I am aware no case has hitherto been reported
of the Indian rhino, or of any rhino of either Asiatic or African origin,
having twin calves. The above occurrence, therefore, must be the first
ever to be observed and recorded.
OaTinG P.O.,
Assam (INpiA). 1D, IP, dale:
July 28, 1955.
6. A SUPPLEMENTARY NOTE ON THE STATUS OF
RHINOCEROS IN THE UNION OF BURMA—1955
THE SMALLER ONE-HORNED OR JAVAN RHINOCEROS.
Rhinoceros sondaicus.
Extract from a letter dated 2nd September 1954, from the Deputy
Commissioner, Tavoy (U Kyaw Thant):
‘On my recent tour to the newly occupied area which was under
insurgent domination for some time, I came across a piece of rhino
hide and a tip of rhino horn about a couple of inches in length cut
from the horn. According to the person who was in possession of
these things, a single-horned rhino was seen at Taungnyo range (a
local name for the Tenasserim Yoma) in Natkyizin village tract by
Mon insurgents. Natkyizin village tract is in the northern part of
Tavoy District bordering the Amhurst District. This was some time
in January 1954, and the animal had to be stalked for about half a
day before it was shot. According to this person the horn was about
9 inches in length and’ about 3 inches in diameter at its base. It ts
said there was only this one rhino when it was seen.’
ho
Or
(ea)
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
It is possible that this rhino is the same animal as mentioned
in the Annual Report on Game Preservation in Burma for the year
ending 3ist March 1940. Below is the relevant extract.
‘In the Man-Aung and Yechaung Reserves of Ataran Division recent
tracks of two rhinoceros were seen and a search by the local beat
officer in the adjoining area of Tavoy Division produced another track.’
THE SUMATRAN TWO-HORNED RHINOCEROS, Dicerorhinus sumatrensis.
Extract from a letter dated the 18th May 1955 from the Divisional
Forest Officer, Minbu Forest Division (U Su):
‘It has very recently been reported to me that there are some
rhino in this division. Very recently some villagers from Nga-pe
area had seen a rhino in the Pa-aing Reserve while collecting canes
for their use, and also stated that some tracks were frequently seen
in the Mon West Reserve and Kyetmauktaung area. From the reports
it seems that there are not less than 3 to 5 rhinoceros in this division,
probably Rhinoceros sumatrensis. I think they must have been
wandering across from the Arakan Yoma.’
Mr. J. N. Martin, Superintending Engineer, who has been supervis-
ing the construction of the Padaung-Taungup motor road over the
Arakan Yoma was informed by local trackers that there are rhinos
in the Nga-pe area, three days’ march from Yebawgyi-Mile 70. This
coincides with the report received by U Su. Nega-pe area is near
An Pass, and is lower down the area marked some 50 miles SSE. of
Myohaung in Lieut.-General Philip Christison’s map (JBNHS, Vol. 45
(4), pp. 605—1945). Ey eggs.
According to Mr. Martin’s informants, rhino tracks are no longer
seen in the area about half-way between Sandoway and Prome.
25, Inya Myarine Roap, =
University P.O., | ; TUN YIN
RANGOON, BURMA.
July 4, 1955.
”. WILD BOARS BEING USED AS BLOOD HOUNDS
I wonder whether the readers of this journal have ever known a
case of wild boars being used as blood hounds. |
There is a place called Badnor in Rajasthan where the Thakur
Sahib of this place used to keep a couple of tame wild boars some
years ago. ‘These wild boars were so trained that whenever a panther
was wounded and required following up, these boars used to be let
loose on him. They would at once pick up the blood trail, and on
encountering the wounded panther would hold him at bay until the
shikaries came and despatched the panther.
On enquiry I was informed that these boars while young were first
taught to lick the blood of a goat and later to follow its trai! laid
for the purpose.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 259
Since no accidents were reported while following a wounded panther
in this novel way, it would certainly appear to be a very safe method
of following up wounded carnivora.
BANERA P.O.
RAJASTHAN. K. GUMAN SINGH,
August 19, 1955. Colonel, 1.A.
8. MALFORMED MUNTJAC. HEAD
(With a photo)
In connection with my recent reference to an abnormal Sambar
antler another abnormal deer skull has come into my possession. In
this case the skull is that of a Barking Deer—Muntiacus muntjak:
Malay—Kijang.
This deer was shot on licence during the past open season and
is of a fully mature male. It was in excellent condition.
The abnormality is in the left pedicel which, instead of growing
upright has grown downwards and backwards past the left ear. This
abnormal pedicel measures 34 inches from the angle of the skull
above the eye socket, and the horn from the burr only Br: inches.
The horn is very worn and stubby.
At the base of the abnormal pedicel, where it joins the front of
the skull, there are two projections. One is half an inch long and
the other, slightly above the first, is merely a small knob of bone.
There ave no signs at all of damage or injury to the abnormal pedicel
or the bone structure at the Base and the small projections appear
to be projections from straight clear skull bone.
7
260 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The normal pedicel measures from the base at the back 3+ inches,
and the horn from the burr 3} inches.
In view of the absence of damage to the pedicel and the bone
tissue in that region it would seem that this abnormality was present
before the animal was born and that the projections on the skull
near the base of the abnormai pedicel are the indications of one—if
not two, additional pedicels which failed to form. |
Hg. GAME DEPARTMENT,
FEDERATION OF Mataya,
SEREMBAN, H. J. KITCHENER, F.z.s.
NEGRI SEMBILAN,
MALAYA.
May 25, 1955.
9. THE STATUS OF THE NILGIRI TAHR OR ‘IBEX’
(HEMITRAGUS _ HYLOCRIUS BLYTH)
As a result of letters appearing in the Press to the effect that
Nilgiri Ibex in these hills were on the verge of extinction owing to
poaching and indiscriminate shooting, it was decided to hold a census
ef these animals in order to ascertain the exact position. An attempt
to carry this out in May 1954 had to be abandoned owing to the un-
usual prevalence of horse-flies which had driven most of the Ibex into
the sholas during the daytime, and to the persistent rain and low-lying
cloud. The census was therefore deferred till April 1955, by which
time the young grass on burnt areas would bring the Ibex up from
the cliffs, and it was hoped that other conditions would prove more
favourable. The result was most satisfactory.
Along the great 20-mile sweep of the cliffs from Nilgiri Peak
to Sispara and Ankinmalai no less than 296 Ibex were counted in
17 different herds, while an outlying herd of 42 was enumerated in
the Billithadahalla area. The grand total actually seen was therefore
338, and this takes no account of others which may have been over-
looked or were out of sight down the cliffs. The figure given may
be accepted as accurate, since great care was taken to ensure that
no herd was counted twice over. This was not difficult as the lure
of the fresh grass kept the animals located. The result of this census
shows how far from the truth is the idea that Ibex on the Nilgiris
are on the verge of extinction.
Only in the small isolated Glenmorgan area on the northern side
not a single animal could be found, nor any droppings, and it would
appear that this herd, which in 1947 numbered some 30 head, has
been wiped out by poachers, in spite of the fact that the area has
been closed to Ibex shooting for some 20 years. Elsewhere, on the
main Ibex grounds between Nilgiri Peak and Bangi Tappal, poaching
is mostly confined to gangs of Estate workers armed with spears and
accompanied by packs of dogs. It will be appreciated how difficult
it is for an unarmed Watcher or Forest Guard to deal with these,
though the presence of sportsmen does act as some deterrent. Licence
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 261
holders on an average account for only two Ibex per annum, and
those are ‘Saddle-backs’, i.e., old males, of doubtful utility for breeding
purposes.
It would be interesting to know how Ibex are faring in other
hill ranges of the South—the Anaimalais, Palnis, High Range, etc.
Perhaps our members could give information.
KALHATTI,
NILGIRIS. EK. G, PHYTHIAN-ADAMS, Lieut.-Col.,
Jiine 14, 1055. Hon. Supdt., Nilgirt Game Association.
to. THE FAMILY LIFE OF A FIVE-STRIPED SQUIRREL—
(FUNAMBULUS PENNANTI WR.)
In 1953 October I found a young squirrel by the wayside which
had dropped from her nest. The crow and the- kite had missed her.
I reared her on warm milk which she sucked from a piece of cotton
dipped in it, and then gradually as she grew up she fended for herself
but still insisted on a daily ration of delicacies such as top of the
milk, coffee and sweets. I have watched her make a dash for a
resting honey-bee or a fly and devour it with relish, wings and all.
By June 1954 she was full grown and had a wooden box lined
with cottonwool in which she slept at night. This box of hers was
kept in a small almirah built in the wall. To come out in the open
she had to jump on to the frigidaire, then on to a curtain, rope-dance
along a wire to another almirah, and finally come down by the wire-
meshed door on to the courtyard. There was an easier route along
the casing but it never seemed to appeal to her.
On June 8, 1954 while I was immersed in a book, my pet squirrel
came into the room and sat on the top of the door. The next
moment she gave one of the sweetest calls I have ever heard, followed
by a second and a third call, at short intervals. There was an
answering call at a distance, not as musical though certainly appealing.
The calls became more frequent and more in number as they came
nearer, and it seemed to me they were far too many to belong to
one since there was such a wide range and variety in pitch.
Bewildered, I peeped out from behind the curtains on to the
courtyard, and imagine my surprise when I saw trooping down the
stairs of our double storeyed house, not one, not two, but as many as
eight squirrels of different shapes and sizes. One was certainly old
and tottering, another with just half a tail, and a third sleek and
debonair. For the first time I realized that the female of the species
takes the initiative to let the squirrel world know that she is ready.
But one factor, I am certain she had not bargained for, was the
terrific onslaught that followed, because the next moment she was
hotly pursued up the casing, down the curtain and behind the couch.
The suitors fought among themselves for supremacy, but for her
there was a constant urgent appeal in the voice as each pursued her.
Finally at an opportune moment the debonair suitor, handsomest of
the lot, softening her by his coaxing call, quickly caught her in a
262 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
clasp and mated. She struggled at first to unloosen the grasp, and
on failing to do so, submitted quietly. For about 15 minutes they
remained thus until disturbed by another inquisitive squirrel. The
female squirrel came to life as it were, and with a turning bite freed
herself and ran, followed closely behind by the surprised mate. He
caught her up again but now she was not unwilling. They mated a
third time in the course of the day and quietly, because the other
squirrels had quit the field, so to say.
The love life of a squirrel lasts but just one day. The next and
the following days not a single squirrel could be seen, nor did the
female send out her urgent calls again. Alone and unaided she makes
her nest and rears her young, the male being but a day’s visitor.
Soon after, she brought in strips of cloth, a ball of thread she
had managed to slip out of the sewing bowl, and finally, unseen
by me, a handkerchief of mine to line her already lined wooden
box. Before long she turned plump and- round, and on the
morning of July 18, exactly one month and ten days after mating,
she came out of her box as slim as ever. I was certain she had
been delivered the night before, and I was keen to see the litter.
She who was such a pet to let me handle her became so possessive
that she turned ferociously on me the moment I went up to her
almirah. Outside it she let me feed her. |
That night tragedy overtook her family. Early next morning !
was surprised to find her, not in the box suckling her young ones,
but constantly getting in and out of the box. She was letting
out the most pathetic squeaks, and she would not allow me to
find out what was wrong. Unable to stand her sorrow any longer
I drove her out of the almirah and out on to the courtyard and locked
the doors. I took down the box and looked in and only then couid
I understand the cause of her pain, for it shook me to find just a
few pieces of meat, the remnants of her first-born.
I threw out her nest, cleaned the box thoroughly, aired it and
put fresh cotton wool for her, then let the doors be opened. She
went straight for the almirah, and finding her old nest and everything
thrown away, went on with her squeaks that were nothing less than
wailings for her lost litter. Fortunately she calmed down by late
evening and was normal the next morning. I was still wondering |
who had destroyed her family when I heard a commotion. On entering
the room | saw a huge sewer rat on the casing and my pet squirrel
appealing for help at the top of her voice. Then it struck me that
these rats enter homes during monsoons when their own burrows {i!!
with rain water. The night before, he had come down the casing,
found the almirah open, frightened the mother squirrel out of the
box and then had made a meal of the young ones. I learnt my
first lessori. Since then I close the doors of the almirah at night
and open them early every morning.
Within a fortnight of that tragedy my squirrel had so recovered
that she again advertised the fact that she was ready for her suitors.
On August 5, 1954 she went through the whole drama of June 8,
but I cannot tell for certain whether the mate she chose the second
time was the same as the first, because there is no way to tell them
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 25M i: 263
one from another unless there is a tail missing. This time they mated’
twice in the course. of the day, and on each occasion for a longer
period, 20 minutes at a time.
_ On September 16 she turned ferocious again, and when I went to
feed her she ran down the almirah, up my dress, took hold of my
middle finger, gave a sharp nip and went back to her box. I looked
foolishly at my bleeding finger, and learnt my second lesson. Now,
every tune she becomes a mother I give her the widest possible berth.
The first thing she did each morning was to leave the nest for
half an hour for fresh air, food and exercise. I took that opportunity
to peep in, and found three very small, blind and absolutely hairless
young ones. To suckle those fast growing, hungry mouths the mother
squirrel had to have ample milk in her four teats, so that now she
consumed double her normal diet with short intervals between feeds.
When once full she went to suckle her young ones until they slept
on a full stomach. Then she would come out of the box and keep
watch, stretched out on the lid, and there take forty winks herself.
In three weeks their eyes opened, squirrel markings appeared on
their now. furry backs, and it was at this stage that I took one of
the litter to bring up myself. When the two young ones grew ir
size and the box became uncomfortable for suckling, the mother would
bring them out of the box, and in the almirah curl herself like a dog
while the young ones held furiously on to the teats. Even when they
could fend for themselves they would insist on being breast-fed now
and then, and the mother made no objection.
Gradually she brought them out and taught them the way to the
courtyard, but there was always a fall or two when the mother would
show remarkable. patience. On one occasion I watched her from rz
in the afternoon to 8 at night trying to induce a young one back
into the almirah after he had accidentally fallen out through sheer
inquisitiveness. With her success I learnt my third lesson, - that
perseverance knows no failure.
The moment she taught them to go free she refused to have them
in the box, though out in the courtyard she fondled them once or
twice. One great difficulty | came up against was that I could not freely
bring up the young I took from her box. She refused to recognise
her offspring because the human hand had obliterated the original
smell and she would chase him about and bite, with the result that to
this day I have failed to bring up a single young one. Invariably
she would so chase them about that the ones she reared as well as
the one I brought up would disappear, thinking it better to live a
squirrel’s life of freedom than a dog’s life in a courtyard!
One characteristic that I noted in my squirrel was that she spurned
male attention while the young ones suckled. I have seen the male
making advances with soft calls, but she would turn round, attack
and so chase him that he thought it wiser to run for his life and
leave the territory in her possession.
The moment she showed hard-heartedness towards her own
offspring I knew she was getting ready to bring up another family.
Thus on December 4, 1954 she conceived for the third time and one
264 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
month and twelve days later brought into the world, a litter of three
on January 16, 1955.
I do not know if squirrels are as prolific in the wild state as in
captivity, because on March 10, she mated again and gave birth on
April 20, 1955 to three young ones, her fourth litter.
One from this litter I brought up, and one day when he was alone
he went to investigate a table fan in motion. Fortunately, I had just
come into the room to find him on the ground twitching his legs,
and the nose was bleeding. Quickly I took him up and sat through
the whole afternoon rubbing his nose and body with ice while he lay
limp in the palm of my hand, whimpering. That night I just could
not put him down fearing to find him stiff and cold the next morning.
I lay under the starlit sky with the injured body against my heart
to keep it warm, and time and again my hand felt for its heart-beat.
For the next two days he was in a comatose condition taking very
little milk, and that little with great difficulty, but from the third
day onwards he recovered enough to lead a normal life.
There was certainly a slight concussion of the brain, for he walked
in circles and had lost the use of one hand. In spite of this he
flourished but his mother gave him no peace and chased him up and
down. One day I lost my temper and drove her out of the house
though I knew she was carrying, for she had for the fifth time mated
on June 15, 1955. In retaliation she too refused the hospitality of
the house, and for the first time made a nest for her future litter in
a crevice of a wall in the compound next to ours. In the meantime
the maimed youngster, a month after his accident, vanished into thin
air. He chose the road to freedom.
Now ard then I would see my squirrel come to the courtyard for
food since her hunger had sharpened as her days were drawing nearer
the delivery. Then on July 26, 1955 she came down slim and famished,
a proud mother again. She ate voraciously, then went through her
box which had not been removed, and returned to her young ones.
She came every day for her ration, investigated her almirah and
then went back.
Then came a terrific downpour lasting two days and I hoped that
the mother would see sense and not let pride ruin her litter. On
August 17, 1955 during a brief respite from rain I looked up to see
the mother coming down the stairs with her young held by the nape
of the neck. She dropped her burden in the box and made trip after
trip bringing her litter of three, and the nest as well.
Yesterday, August 19, I took a young one out, and while I was
typing this article he started bawling for milk bringing the mother
down to investigate! She coolly looked at me, came to my lap, sniffed
at her offspring and lay down to suckle him. When he was full
she rolled him into a ball, gathered him up and carried him back to
her box while I sat and watched, and inside me there was such
peace and happiness that I decided to let her keep her family.
SuNNy VIEW,
SAHARANPUR, U.P. (Mrs.) ARUNA BANERJI
August 29, 1955.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES | 265
[As will be seen, the period of gestation in every case above was
between 4o and 42 days, and the size of the litter 3 young, which
seems to be the norm.—Eps. |
11. ATTACHMENT TO WINTER QUARTERS IN
MIGRATORY BIRDS
On the night of zoth March 1953, Shumoon Abdulali drew my atten-
tion to a female redstart (Phoenicurus ochrurus) which had spent the cold
weather in his garden at Thana, Salsette Island) Bombay. It was
roosting on the stem of a banana leaf about 5 feet above ground
when we caught it by hand and placed a red plastic ring upon its leg.
The bird was not seen again, possibly having migrated northwards
soon after; but on 16th October 1953 it was back in the garden
and spent the winter in the same area. It was last seen on 23rd
March 1954.
On 23rd October 1954, a female redstart flew into the house and
was captured. It was presumably the same individual, but the ring
had been lost. A fresh ring was placed on its leg and the bird stayed
in the area till the end of March 1955. A look-out will be kept for
its return in autumn.
In the Journal Vol. 47, p. 161 Salim Ali has recorded a Grey
Wagtail which visited his lawn at Bandra for several consecutive
years. It 1s well known that birds commonly return to the same
place for nesting purposes, but it would appear that this habit of
individuals spending their winter in the same area is also not uncommon
and applies to many species. What is it that makes one bird stop
in Bombay while its mate, or perhaps others from the same brood,
go right down to Ceylon?
c/o Faiz & Co.,
75 ABDUL REHMAN ST.,
BomBay. HUMAYUN ABDULALI
May 30, 1955.
12. ADDITIONS TO THE BIRDS OF THE PALNI HILLS,
SOUTH INDIA
I recently sent to the Bombay Natural History Society a list of
birds collected by mein the Palni Hills and now in the Shembaganur
Museum. Subsequent to this the Society prompted me to collect some
additional specimens, and I append a list of the species which I understand
have not been reccrded from the Palnis, together with such short sups
plementary information as is available.
The parenthesis immediately after the name indicates the place and
date where the specimen was collected. Those of my specimens now in
the Society’s collection are marked with an asterisk. The latter were
identified by Mr. Humayun Abdulali, and his notes are included in square
brackets.
266 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
- Copsychus saularis ceylonensis Sclater. 1 27-4-54, 2 2-1-55 Shem-
baganur. . }, mal: ‘ oe
ATX ° Py
& 28
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Of ab of dle
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"So 'SYy “Upsévyqvg “YY JO yeu} YUM wvostedurod Joy divo0lodS ‘vIvy¢hsav vajisivpyY “GQ Be F SIA
‘MpAanqqvg “PT UM UOSIIVdUUOd 1OF *PIIAA VIVIZG Asan “PF Jo Sjopee] jo odvys 943 UI suOI]eNeA °"Z “SIA
O1193S 1
(oneuUIeIselp) ¢ pue F ‘Z ‘sold
“AOU “dS 2/p4v]]Vg VIJWADIY
UI] aLv1g ‘009 “SIRT ‘gen Avquiog ‘uanor
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
Important distinguishing features of the four Indian species of Warsilea
TABLE 1
MM. quadri-
M. aegy pt-
291
M. ballardii
M, conden-
S. No. Characters sata folia daca sp. nov. Gupta
1. | Nature of leaflets. Crenate. Entire. Entire in aq-|Crenate, deep-
uatic ; cre-| ly lobed.
natein sub-
terrestrial.
2. | Disposition of sporo-| In tufts. Generally 2,| Solitary. Solitary, 2, 3
carps. sometimes 3. and small ©
tufts.
3. | Relation of pedicel) Free from | Adnate. At the base.| At the base,
to petiole. the base.
4, Relation of pedicel | Slightly con-| Connate. xX Free or con.
to pedicel. nate. nate.
5. | Size and shape of} ¢”, suborbi- oe Oe ts’ —-qy”. 4” Squarish
sporocarp. cular and) Ovoid. Square with; without
horizontal. prominent | grooves or
groovesand) depressions.
depressions.
6. | Pedicel to sporocarp| 2: 1 Ho GET WU] Ges ws 2
ratio. :
7. | Attachment of pedi-| Adnate. Partially ad-| Adnate. Adnate.
cel to sporocarp. nate.
8. | Number and nature) Only upper) Similar up-| Only upper | Only upper
of the horn, but not |perandlower.| blunt. but pointed.
pointed.
9. | Soral number. 10. 16-20. Generally 4,| 6-8,
sometimes
5 or 6. |
ever, produces quite healthy and normal type of sporocarps and may not
' bea hybrid but a true species.
I have great pleasure in naming this Marsilea from Ajmer after
Mr. F. Ballard, the expert Pteridologist at Kew. His constant help and
interest in our work at Jodhpur has been very valuable.
The new species may be diagnosed as follows :—
Marsilea ballardii sp. nov.
Herba aquatica vel subterrestris.
Foliola crenata, marginibus alte
incissis, deltoidea, sparse serica ; petioli 10-20 cms. longi in formis .cultis,
4—7°5 cms. longi in formis terrestribus naturalibus. Pedicelli singuli,
bini, terni vel plures simul, connati’; pedicelli adnati integrae basi concep-
taculorum ; ratio pedicellum inter et sporocarpum est 2: 1. Conceptacula
horizontalia, plus minusve quadratiuscula, absque sulcis vel . canalibus
9
293 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Marsileae aegyptiacae, 5 mm. magnitud., dense pilosa, dente superiore
prominente ; sori 6-8.
Typus lectus a 'T. N. Bhardwaja mense novembri 1954, prope vicum
Gugra vocatum, ad viam quae ducit ad Kishangarh, in Statu Ajmer,
in India.
I am grateful to the Director, Roy. Bot. Gardens, Kew Mr. F. Ballard,
the Pteridologist, Mr- A. H. G. Alston of the British Museum, London,
and. Prof, P. N. Mehra for their kindness, help and encouragement. My
sincere thanks are due to Rev. Fr. H. Santapau for very kindly rendering
the diagnosis of the new species into Latin.
BoTANY DEPARTMENT,
JASWANT COLLEGE,
JODHPUR.
September 9, 1955.
kK. M. GUPTA
30. UTILITY OF THE FOREST PRODUCTS OF ORISSA
IN THE FISHERIES OF THE CHILKA LAKE?
INTRODUCTION
Well-balanced economy in every trade requires the maximum utiliza-
tion of the raw materials available in the locality. The fishery trade of the
Chilka Lake is well balanced in this respect, drawing all its raw materials
from the hills and jungles spreading on the western shore of the lake.
No consolidated record at present exists of the forest products made
use of in preparing the varied fishing implements of the Chilka Lake.
These products have helped to develop cottage industries, such as boat-
making, mat and basket weaving, and leaf stitching, in addition to provid-
ing livelihood for hundreds of villagers who collect barks, plants, leaves
etc.
A list of plants made use of in the fisheries trade is given below:
.-Local Oriya name
Chani or Kaunria
Kanta or Pili or Dandi Bauns
Karada
'Khadi siju
* Kharua noi
Paldhua
Sahanja
Sal
Shalimba Baunsa
Shiali
Sunari
Sundarkania Bauns
Shuli or Bhuduka
Scientific name
Crotalaria juncea I..
Bambusa arundinacea Willd.
Cleistanthus collinus Benth.
Euphorbia tirucalli L.
L[chnocarpus frutescens R. Br.
Erythrina indica Lamk.
Termtinalia tomentosa W. & A.
Shorea robusta Gaertn.
Dendrocalamus stvictus Nees.
Bauhinia vahlit WV. & A.
Cassia fistula Li:
Bamobusa vulgaris Schrad.
Kydia calycina Roxb.
1 Published with the kind permission of the Deputy Director of Fisheries, Orissa.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 293
CRAFT AND TACKLE
The various fishing implements used for fishing in the lake may be
erouped under five major heads :
1. Boats 2. Nets 3. Traps 4. Jano or enclosure 5. Rods and
spears.
Boats
Four types of boats are in operation in the Jake. Devasundaram
(1951) while describing them has mentioned that the dug-outs are made
of Shorea robusta. All the other three types of boats mentioned by him
are also constructed out of the same wood. ‘The different parts of these
boats are made exclusively of materials available from the local forests
and the jungles surrounding the villages. To mention a few, the mast or
gula of the boat is made of the lower portion of Bambusa arundinacea ; the
sail or fole¢ is a mat woven out of thin and broad strips split from 2.
arundinacea or Dendrocalamus strictus ; bamboo mat or chancha or akhdi
too is a mat consisting of thick strips made from the lower portion of 2.
avundinacea which are tied together by coir rope. The boats are parti-
tioned into compartments by such mats also. For punting bamboo or
kado the upper portion of Bambusa vulgaris or D. strictusis used. To
the lower portion of B. arundinacea or B. vulgaris or D. strictus a sal plank
is fixed with nail and used as a rudder or danda.
Besides these, for other minor parts of the boat, bamboo is very
essential.
Nets
Devasundaram (op. cit.) has described four nets in his study of the
fishing methods for mullets in the lake. Jones and Sujansinghani(1952a)
have recorded another net, A/anz-jal (better known as munz jal or gania
jal), to catch the beloniform fishes. Devasundaram (1954) has given the
detailed description of three more nets while dealing with the fisheries of
the lake.
All the above nets can be divided into two groups with reference to
the material out of which they are prepared: those made of yarn
and the rest made of Cvotalaria juncea, Cast net (Khepa jal), drag
net (Gania jal, Khoinga or Kabala jal, Menjia jal and Khadi jal),
seine net (Patwa jal) and gill net (Bhzda jal) are prepared of yarn. The
last mentioned net may also be prepared of hemp, but hemp is mainly
used in preparing Bhekta jal and Nolz jal which are also gill nets. The
wood of Arythvina indica and Kydia calycina is utilised as floats for
nets like Bhida jal, Bhekta jal, Patua jal and Nolz jal.
Young shoots of B. arundinacea with 1” diameter or below are em-
ployed as spreader sticks for Khadz jal, Khoinga jal and Menjia jal.
The decoctions of the barks of Clezstanthus collinus and Terminalia
tomentosa are employed to dye the nets. One pound of bark is boiled for.
nearly two hours in approximately three gallons of brackish water with
bits of Euphorbia tirucallt. As the extract of C. collinus bark soon
wears away the yarn nets, the decoction of the bark of Z. tomentosa is
used to dye them ; but for the hemp nets no restriction is observed.
Dyeing the nets with Cassza fistula bark extract is not practised in the
Chilka area. And contrary to other parts of Orissa where nets are tanned
294 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
at intervals of 2 to 3 months (I. P. F. C., 1954) here the dyeing of nets is
done once a fortnight. :
Traps
Two main types of traps are used in the lake exclusively for catching
prawns and crabs. Jones and Sujensinghani (1952b) have given the des-
cription of the box-trap, locally known as konkara kharia used for catch-
ing crabs. A slight modification of the box-trap is the Boja with which
prawns are caught. The 7zar community of the fishermen make these
two kinds of traps, but the other main type, known as Dhoudz, described
by Devasundaram (op. cit.) is prepared by the Kondara community. The
hard basal part of a full-grown bamboo (local name: 4/u/z) is split into
strips which are fastened together by a wild climber, /chnocarpus trutes-
cens. Normally this climber is about half an inch in Circumference, rusty
brown in color and possesses strong fibres. It is soaked in water before
use and the epidermal layer is sometimes scraped off as required. .
The leader line of these traps is generally made out of the same por-
tion of bamboo described above, but it is splitinto thicker slats than those
used in the traps.
Jano or Enclosure
Bamboo mats used in the Jazo are of the samme type and material as
the leader line of the traps.
Rods and Spears
In rod angling D. strictus is used as a rod and for the handle of 7ezta
or spear strong &. avundinacea is employed.
Other Articles
Fish is despatched to different places in rectangular baskets, the
photo of which appears in the paper, ‘ Hiisa Fishery of the Chilka Lake ’
(Jones and Sujansinghani, 1951). These baskets are prepared out of B.
vulgaris as that species of bamboo is durable and is quite easy to split
into splints. Before packing the fish, a layer of sewn leaves of Bauhinia
vahlit is spread inside the basket.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I am grateful to Sri M. Peter Devasundaram of the Central Marine
Fisheries Research Station, Mandapam, for his kind help in preparing
this note.
CHILKA BIOLOGICAL STATION,
BALUGAON, J. C. ROY.
ORISSA.
April 30, 1955.
REFERENCES
Devasundaram, M. P. (1951): Fishing Methods for Chilka Mullets. Jud. Fmg.,
12 (1-2): 22-25.
af me — (1954) : A Report on the Fisheries of the Chilka lake from 1948 to 1952.
Orissa Govt. Publ. : 1-34.
GLEANINGS 295
I.P. F.C. (1954): Report of Technical Committee II to the Sth Meeting. :
98-101.
Jones, S. and Sujansinghani, K. H (1951): The Hilsa Fishery of the Chilka
Lake. JBNA'S, 50 (2): 264-280.
— — — (1952a) : The Mani-jal of the Chilka Lake-—A special net for Beloni-
form fishes. ibid.': 287-288.
— — — (1952b): Notes on the Crab Fishery of the Chilka Lake. ibid, 51
(1): 128-134,
GLEANINGS
FEF. R. Fosberg in Northern Marshall Islands Expedition 1951-52
(Atoll Research Bulletin No. 38 (1955)) page 33:
‘The Pzsonza forest, which covers the greater part of this islet, is
dense and contains some great trees, though it is uneven and shows the
usual effects of typhoons in the form of fallen trees. Ordinarily these
take root wherever they touch the ground, but a number seen here on
Bikar were dead. Probably they were biown down during the severe
dry spell. The Pisonta forest contained two remarkable things—white-
tailed tropic birds nesting in holes in the tree trunks, and water collected
in cavities and irregularities in the large tree bases containing swarms of
ostracods. Where these fresh-water animals came from on an island that
has absolutely no other fresh-water is indeed a mystery.’
Adapted excerpt trom the IL.U.P.N. Bulletin for June 1955.
Detorestation. Lesson for India. ‘Ten years ago, when it rained
heavily in the Estereland Alpilles of Provencein the south of France, the
water took three to four days to reach the Mediterranean coast. Today,
due to the increased deforestation on the slopes, and to fires—one hun-
dred million pines have been lost in this period—the inhabitants of Saint
Raphael watch torrents of muddy water rush past them only three hours
after the rainfall.’
Charles McCann, F-L.S. in *‘ The Lizards of New Zealand—Gekkonidae
and Scincidae ’. :
‘Waite (1929) in his ‘‘ Reptiles and Amphibians of South Australia,”
narrates the exploits of two members of the South Australian Museum
when trying to coilect geckos on the tinned roof of a hut which was out
of reach. One of the party suggested the firing of a blank from a gun
inside the hut in the hope that the shock would dislodge the geckos.
The suggestion was carried out with the result that there was a‘ shower
of geckos ’ from the roof. On collecting the spoils, the collectors found
that the shower consisted of geckos’ tails alone !’
From ‘A Book of Spiders’. By W.S. Bristowe. King Penguin Books,
1947,
‘ A census in a Sussex field of rough grass showed a maximum
_ spider population in late sumer slightly in excess of 24 millions to the
acre... The spider population of England and Wales can, of course, only
be guessed at. My guess is an average of 21 billions. At avery con-
servative estimate each spider destroys insects at the rate of a hundred
per annum, so we atrive at a yearly insect consumption in England and
Wales of 220,000,000,000,000 (two hundred and twenty billions). Let
me also say quite definitely that spiders eat many times the number of
296 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
insects consumed by birds, whose destruction rate has probably now been
exceeded also by those modern enemies, the motorists, who squash
insects in millions on their windscreens and radiators. Birds get a good
reputation, partly because people like them. Spiders have a bad reputa-
tion because people either actively dislike them or fail to realise the huge
part they play in insect. destruction.’
From‘ World Wool Digest’ 22 December 1954.
© Rabbits still a Problem in Australia’
_. €It is generally believed that, in the normal course of events, what-
ever expansion takes placein Australian wool production in the near future,
it will not be of the magnitude of the increase in 1952/53, when total
output rose from 1,080 to 1,281 million lb. in a year. This was a ‘once
for all’ increase due primarily to the first successful application of myxo-
matosis in the destruction of millions of rabbits. The myxomatosis cam-
paign has been kept up in subsequent seasons and much valuable infor-
mation has been collected as to the effects and incidence of the disease.
It has recently been suggested, however, that rabits are no longer a serious
problem in Australia and that farmers can now safely discontinue such
expensive precautions as netting properties and digging out and ripping
watrens.
‘This point of view has been severely criticised by officers of the
Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, which
has been responsible for directing intensive experiments and research in
myxomatosis. The Pastoral Review, of 16th October, publishes a letter
on this subject by Mr. F. N. Ratcliffe, Officer-in-Charge of C.S.I.R.O.’s
Wildlife Survey Section. After studying all scientific and field evidence
available, Mr. Ratcliffe is of the opinion that myxomatosis will
not provide the final solution to the rabbit problem. He quotes Dr,
J. M. Rendel, Officer-in-Charge of the Animal Genetics Section, as giving
an ‘emphatic warning ’ that ‘ the development of a rabbit population with
some degree of intrinsic resistance to myxomatosis is inevitable’. The
building up of this resistance, although slow at first, will increase in
tempo and may become significantiy apparent within ten years, in areas
where annual outbreaks of myxomatosis have occurred.
‘Two additional factors that may possibly contribute to the reduced
efficacy of myxomatosis must also be taken into account—they are:
inadequacy of insect vectors and a decrease in the virulence of the virus,
In these circumstances the official policy is quite clearly to encourage the
intensification of control by standard methods and to consolidate gains
already made by ‘ mopping up ’ surviving rabbit infestations. This policy is
the outcome of the most careful consideration of all the facts and probas
bilities and has the support of the representatives of all the States and is
endorsed by the virologists and geneticists who attended the recent myxo-
matosis conference in Melbourne.’
Trees.
Allan C. Garrard writes in the journal of ‘The Men of the Trees’
(Vol. xviii, No. 2, Autumn 1954) :—
‘... . Timber still forms the major portion of the wealth of Jugo-
Slavia;.... All the children attending primary and secondary schools
are encouraged to plant trees—and the large majority do so regularly.’
GLEANINGS 297
Fledges.
In the same journal at p. 129 J. Gunston writes :—
ae . Farming from the artificial manure bag is undoubtedly
reducing the Stability of many soils ; the obvious answer to this danger is
that instead of reducing the hedges and enlarging the fields, the reverse
process will have to be resorted to in the very near future.’
This is written in regard to conditions in England, but can be applied
to India in many parts of which the establishment of hedges of suitable
design is an urgent need. Many of the existing practically useless ‘ hedges’
merely sketchily demarcate boundaries of cultivated plots and are just a
remnant of what they should be for the purpose of protecting crops from
inroads by cattle and the force of the wind which constantly removes the
valuable top-soil from the ploughed land. Hedges ofthe many suitable
plants, such as Evythrina suberosa and others with leguminous properties,
do not cast heavy shade on the growing crops and obviate the heavy and
recurrent labour of making thorny barriers against roaming cattle. Such
hedges are permanent wind-breaks and erosion barriers, attract birds
useful to the cultivator, and generally useful in other ways also.
(R. W. Burton). |
Extract trom All-India Khadi and Village Industries Board, Bombay,
Circular letter No. PG—II—24]54 dated 11-10-54 :
GUR (JAGGERY) FROM PALMYRA PALMS
‘ Palms as a source of sugar supply are gaining wide importance in
all the palm-growing countries of the world. World population is increas-
ing by 68,000 per day, and in India the annual increase in the population
is about 38 lakhs. In view of this alarming increase in the population,
a time may come when we shall have to release most of the land where
sugar-cane is growing today and use it for growing foodcrops. The
demand for sugar will have to be met from cheaper sources such as
palms, which can grow in a waste strip ot land. With the existing
number of 5crores of tap-able palms, it is estimated that we may be able
to make 1 to 14 million tons of Palm Gtir per annum. At present 20 to
23 lakh acres of fertile land are under sugarcane cultivation meant for
cane gitir manufacture. The estimated production of Palm Gur will
release 10 lakh acres of fertile land for other foodcrops. In all, the
industry can give seasonal employment to 25 lakh rural workers and thus
can relieve unemployment to a considerable extent.’ 4
NOTES AND NEWS
The Society is now in a position to offer some amounts for the carry-
ing out of field work in natural history, which includes the collection of
specimens or data, or the investigation of specific problems.
Applications should be addressed to: The MHonorary Secretary,
Bombay Natural History Society, 114, Apollo Street, Bombay, stating (1)
the nature of the problem ; (2) the experience and qualifications of the
candidate and (3) the amount required, with itemized details of how it is
proposed to be spent. i
Applications should be received before 31st January, 1956.
Applicants may be asked to interview the Committee in Bombay, if
considered necessary.
it & % %
As we go to press, news has come of the death (on 8 December)
following an attack of coronary thrombosis, of Dr. S. L. Hora, Director
of the Zoological Survey of India and a valued member of the Society’s
Advisory Committee. D> Ooo
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AWA HIS NOILVINWTH HANLIVN
ALHIDOS AYOLSIH TVYALVN AVEANOG
MINUTES OF THE ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING OF THE
BOMBAY NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY HELD IN THE
HALL OF THE BOMBAY BRANCH OF THE ROYAL ASIATIC
SOCIETY, TOWN HALL, HORNIMAN CIRCLE, BOMBAY,
ON MONDAY THE 29th AUGUST 1955 AT 5-30 p.m.
WITH REV. FR. H. SANTAPAU, s.., IN THE CHAIR.
1. The Honoraty Secretaries’ Report for the year ended 31
December 1954 having been circulated was taken as read. ‘The Jt.
Honorary Secretary then enumerated the activities of the Society during
the period January to August 1955.
2. ‘The balance sheet and statement of accounts presented by the
Honorary Treasurer were approved and adopted.
3. The Committee’s nominations to the Executive and Advisory
Committees, as previously circulated to members, were accepted.
After the normal business of the meeting concluded, Mr. Humayun
Abdulali, the Hon. Secretary, moved the vote of thanks to the
Chairman. 5
a nO ne DT TOES —
a ey ene Veer 5
PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY V. M. PHILIP AT THE DIOCESAN PRESS
18 CHURCH ROAD, VEPERY, MANDRAS—20-1-1956, C4256 46
EDITORS: SALIM ALI, AND H. SANTAPAU
114 APOLLO STREET, FORT, BOMBAY
nw
=~; =
NOTICE TO CONTRIBUTORS
Contributors of scientific articles are requested to assist the
editors by observing the following instructions:
1. Papers which have at the same time been offered for
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person or a place, e.g. A hodgsoni hodgsoni or trepto ‘a chinensis
suratensis or Dina blatteri.
4. Trinomials referring to eh should only be peed
where identification has been authentically established by comparison
of specimens actually collected. Raed AC TI atte
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Be , alphabetically pureed under author’s name with the abr
es of journals or periodicals aged (italics), and titles at books
ae "underlined (roman type), th
Roepke, 24); The Genus Nyetemers Heber nel
Soc. Lond., 100 100 (2) 47-70. :
Prater, S. H. (1948) ; The Book of Indian Animals Bom We
Titles of papers should not be underlined.
icfenen ce to literature in the ct Ana be sng |
Tt oa also ae eee cheer facts) the method a Sea
of an experiment, and if possible the essential points of any new
finding, theory or technique. It dacnis be concise and normally not
ext 200 words. |
When the synopsis is completed it shoul’ Hee cclaNre i ise
the author to clarify obscurities, and further cc ed
possible without detracting from its usefu Iness.
Bombay 1 en daitin oF THE ee: vinden
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mit S 4
JOURNAL OF THE
BOMBAY NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY
Vol. 53, No. 3
Editors
SALIM ALI & H. SANTAPAU,s.}.
A\THSO .
eA Nilay
oe 24 1299 }
LIBRARLA
APRIL 1956
Rs. 15
a cc>vecmnocseecaonee ea0c: ODN INCINN J) a0c300 I
eis i
ZOOLOGICAL SOCIETY C DIA.
Published bi-annually, oth: Bee dapieait 1 ones on?
eneviews) in all branches of Pure and ee
i ctu
- Annual Subscription 1 per Vo sume of Two Issues : 2
Rs. 22 [> Foreign ; Rs. 20 i - Inland.
A few back numbers are also available. Aare Be .
A few pages are reserved for advertisements at rates available from
the Honorary Treasurer. ay? arte mt is
Pas
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etc. and reprints of a few papers of the Indian Helminthologist, Oh
the late Dr. G. D. Bhalerao, can also now be had from Office of
the Honorary Treasurer, Dr. B. S. Chauhan, Zoological Society
ES00cv Se pee Sunes
of India, 34, Chittaranjan Avenue, Caleutta-12, India, ? pee
All orders, remittances and communications regarding above should i 4
6 MPS
0 be addressed to the Honorary Treasurer. Pe en
PA rh Sih ae iL a : sa f is . 3
©
o@=300C300C>00C D000 — ak iecsnenee nearer ae
ft \ ; 3 r4 , ae a an ik ve v8 ey ue Ps
* ; :
RECENT PUBLICATIONS OF THE Bownay Natura “History Society a ;
Some Beautiful Tadian } Trees ne Rev. E Blatter, s : S.J.5 “anc
W. S. Millard. Second edition. Revised and brought upt iis a
With 31 coloured and 37 monochrome Plates, and ‘numerous | xt-
figures, Price Rs. 20. ay ae “sgn
; (to members Rs. 16). tk ss
Some Beautiful India Climbers and Shrubs by N, mor Dae ml a q
M. B. Raizada. With 31 coloured and 99° halftone | Pies. and
numerous Lee nee | Winice Rs. 22 eh
“(os members Rs, Fen
chrome from photographs. ‘Price Rs. 20. | oe ve
; to members Rs. 16).
Ma ee
y : ra *y ey *
r ‘ aN aie
NG ey
y ob ie tah 7) »)
a Ass ge Pay te
rh ii ty ON os ¥
io ? ’ me, cay :%
14s Fil a a ys 4 yt J ey
4 a a] T i
, 4 Pipe,
¥ Ni , ut LN x F ' iy ,
CONTENTS OF VOLUME 53, NO. 3
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAI. By K, S. Lavkumar
(With a map and two plates)
BIONOMIcS OF THE GIANT WooD SPIDER, Nephila maculata FABR. By
M. kK. Thakur, M.Ssc., and V. B. Tembe. M.se. (With iwo plates)
GEOGRAPHICAL DISTRIBUTION OF THE HALOPHYTIC PLANTS OF BOMBAY
AND SALSETTE ISLANDS. By B.S. Navalkar (With five plates) 56
KASHMIR—A FISHING HoripAay. By A. St. John Macdonald (With two
plates ) 500 cas *
OBSERVATIONS ON THE Post-EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT OF WMachaerota
noctua Dist. 1916 (INSECTA : HOMOPTERA : CERCOPIDAE). By A. P,
Mathew, M.A., PH.D. (With one plate)
' HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN, PART II. FOOD AND FEED-
ING Hapits. By Daya Krishna, D.PHIL. (Alld.), PH.D, (Cantab.) and
Ishwar Prakash hee oe :
THE MALAYVAN GREAT Tit. By James Cairns, M.C., M.B.0.U. (With one
plate)
SOME ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH HIGH ALTITUDES OF THE
HIMALAYAS. By Biswamoy Biswas (With a map)
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BirD, Ploceus philippinus Linn. By Salim
Ali and Vijaykumar C. Ambedkar (With one plate)
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE TROUD FARM AND HATCHERY AT ACITHABAL,
KASHMIR. By Sunder Lal Hora (Deceased)
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM. By F. N. Betts (With
a map and one plate) 500 aie eae eas
NoTES ON THE HETEROCERA OF CarcurTa, Partl. By D. G, Sevastopulo,
F.R.E.S. eoe eco eee eGe eae ese
INDIAN MaARSILEAS : THEIR MORPHOLOGY AND SYSTEMATICS. By K. M.
Gupta and T. N. Bhardwaja (Wath 3 plates and 8 text figures)
In MEMORIAM :—
1. Sunder Lal Hora (Wzth a plate) uae aig
2. Lt.-Col, K. G. Gharpurey, I.M.S. (Retd.) ... ae
REVIEWS :—
1. The World of Small Animals (J.C.D.)
2. The Natural History of Mammals (S.A.)
3. Mammals of the World: Their Life & Habits (8,A.)
4, Plant Ecology of Arid Regions (G. S. Puri)
5, A Guide to the Birds of Ceylon (S.A.) eee Bp bes
PAGE
315
330
335
346
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397
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447
448
448
448
450
45]
li CONTENTS OF VOLUME 53, NO. 3—(contd.)
6. Budgerigars for Pleasure and Profit (Shumoon Abdulali)
7. Dwellers in Darkness (M. L. Roonwal)
8.. Ants (D.J.P.)
ADDITIONS TO THE SOCIETY’S LIBRARY
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES :—
1. Accidents to Tiger and Panther. By Frank Nicholls (p. 459). 2.
Sleeping Dogs. By Lt.-Col. R. W. Burton (p. 459). 3. The Brow-antlered
Deer or Thamin (Panolia eldi thamin ‘Thomas) in the Union of Burma
(1955). By U ‘Tin Yin (p. 460). 4. The Leaf Monkey of Kashmir
Valley. By H. Khajuria (p. 463). 5. Longevity of the Ceylon Ruddy
Mongoose (HHerpestes snitht zeylanicus) in captivity. By W. W. A. Phillips
(p. 464). 6. Tufted Deer in Burma. By B. E. Smythies (p. 464). 7. Ex-
periments in implanting African Lions into Madhya Bharat. By Col. Kesri
Singh (p. 465). 8. Western limits of two East Himalayan birds. By
Salim Ali (p. 468). 9. A Dabchick is born. By Loke Wan-Tho (p. 468).
10. Crows and Weaver Birds—Ratiocination or What? By SAalim Ali
(p. 470). 11. Colonization of islands by White-eyes (Zosterops spp.) By
F. N. Betts (p. 472). 12. The duck season in North India, 1955-56. By
O. H. de St. Croix (p. 473). 13. A Large Indian Kite, Milvus migrans
lineatus (Gray), with a split bill (With a text figure). By Biswamoy Biswas
(p. 474). 14. Anote on newly hatched chicks of the Slatybreasted Rail,
Rallus striatus Linnaeus. By R. K. Lahiri (p. 475). 15. Hawk drowning
wounded duck. By M. A. Wynter-Blyth (p. 476). 16. A jumping snake.
By D. E. Reuben (p.477). 17. A note on fishes of the families Syngna-
thidae and Pegasidae and the order Heterosomata in the Colombo Museum.
By P. H. D. H. De Silva (p. 477). 18.. Food of the Whale Shark, Rhineodon
typus (Smith): evidence of a Jataka sculpture, 2nd Century B.C. (With
a plate). By Sunder Lal Hora (p. 478). 19. Additions tothe Aphid Fauna
of India. By S. Kanakaraj David (p. 479). 20. Some insects attracted
to light—III. By S. Usman (p. 482). 21. Note on the life-history of Lema
semireguiaris Jac. (Coleoptera, Chrysomeloidea, Crioceridae). By G. C.
Sengupta and B.K. Behura (p. 484). 22. Behaviour of Butterflies before
oviposition. By Dora Ilse. (p. 486). 23. Termites from near Baghdad,
Iraq. By Henry Field (p. 488). 24. Sheep as a new host of the tick,
Dermacentor auratus Supino (Family Ixodidae). By G. Mathai (p. 489).
25. Appendix masculina of Palaemon lamarret H. Milne-Edwards (With a
teat figure). By Krishna Kant Tiwari (p. 490). 26. Reproduction of the
Notostraca. By Krishna Kant Tiwari (p. 491). 27. Branching in Areca
Palm, Avecacatechu L. (With a photo). By B. N. Narayana Rao, K. H.
Krishna Murthy and. B. S. Venkatakrishniah) (p. 492). 28. Pteridophytes of
Cooch Behar. By K.C. Biswas (p. 493). 29. The taxonomic value of the
androecium in the genus Cassza. By C. S. Venkatesh (p. 496). 30. Name
changes of a few Bombay plants. By (Miss) D, Panthaki and H. Santapau,
s.J. (p. 499). 31. Extensive loss of water by forest trees in the Dangs
forest. By H. Santapau, s.J. (p. 501). 32. Dolichos bracteatus Baker. By
H. Santapau, sz. and (Miss) D. Panthaki (p. 501). 33. Flowering of
‘Banga Raj’ night flowering cactus (Witha plate). By Tun Yin (p, 502).
34. Petaloid filaments in 7pomoea rubrocaerulea Hook. (With a plate). By
J. Pallithanam, s.5.(p. 503). 35. The name Hoya pendula. By H. Santa-
pau, sJ. (p. 504). 36. Tobacco without nicotine. By H. Santapau, s.s.
(p. 504). 37. A petrified monocotyledonous inflorescence from the Deccan
intertrappean beds, Chhindwara, M.P. By J. K. Verma (p. 505). 38. Ona
new petrified flower Sahnipushpum shuklai sp. nov. from the intertrappean
beds of Mohgaonkalan in the Deccan. By J. K. Verma (p. 505). 39. Model
miles on roads. By Lt.-Col..R. W. Burton (p. 506). 40. Duties of members
of the Society. By Lt.-Col, R. W. Burton (p. 507).
GLEANINGS
NOTES AND NEws ... Ne Wee nes
508
‘JOURNAL
OF THE
BOMBAY NATURAL HISTORY SOCIETY
1956 VOL 53 No. 3
A CONTRIBUTION TO THE ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAL*
BY
K. S. LAVKUMAR
(With a map and two plates)
In this essay I propose to deal with the Alakananda Valley above
Rudra Prayag, the Mandakini Valley and the Dhauli Ganga Valley which
drains a large portion of eastern Garhwal. The southern regions of Garh-
wal and the Rishi Ganga flowing down from the Nanda Devi Sanctuary are
not included since I have not had the opportunity of visiting them. The
Sanctuary being a remarkable valley, surrounded by a formidable ring of
snow mountains, requires considerable time and effort to visit, and
merits a paper all to itself. Southern Garhwal consists of the foothills
south of the Alakananda River and would not differ very appreciably from
the Mussoorie hills. It is the three valleys mentioned above that are
interesting, leading as they do to the high regions below the perpetual
snows and the red hills of the Zasker Range on the border of Tibet.
It is obvious that to be able to comprehend the status of bird life in
any region properly it is necessary to consider the ecological factors that
so predominantly influence the biological world. The geographical posi-
tion, topography, the annual precipitation etc. are all very important. How-
ever, it is not possible to go into all the aspects of the ornithology of a
region like Garhwal in the limited scope of this paper and without a more
profound study than I can claim to have made. This article is just a
preliminary, and I hope that some readers may find it interesting enough
and an incentive to follow up the study of Himalayan birds along any
paths it may suggest. Since the entire area was covered in such a short
period, namely May and June, and most of that time spent on the march,
many species have got left out which otherwise would have made my list
of birds more compiete.
Although the dividing line between the drier West Himalayan and
the more humid East Himalayan sub-specific regions lies somewhere in
Nepal, Garhwai is favourably enough placed near the transitional zone
+ See also the very useful complementary paper ‘A Note on the Nidification
and Habits of some Birds in British Garhwal ’ by A. E. Osmaston. /BNAS, Vol.
28: pp. 140-160, December 1921— Eps.
AUG 7 1956
316 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL.HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
between the two. Laughing-thrushes which in the Simla hills are not
common except in the thickest forest are very frequent here. The Red-
headed Trogon, formerly believed to occur as far west-as Almora only,
Was seen by me in fair numbers in forest at the base of Tungnath
mountain, and there 1s no reason to believe that more examples of this
kind cannot be revealed by a careful survey.
From geographic and climatic considerations, the region under mention
can be most conveniently divided into three zones, viz., the Mandakini
Valley to the west, the Alakananda Valley and the Dhauli Ganga Valley
to the east. These three valleys, due to the configuration of the mountain-
ranges, have a rainfall heavier in the west and less so in the east, which is
absolutely at variance with the general trend in the Himalayas. The
reasons will be clearer when each zone is discussed individually. Another
very important factor is the great difference in altitude met with here,
giving climatic types ranging from tropical heat tothe frigid cold of the
perpetual snows. In the lower Mandakini a traveller will find fine
topes of mangoes ringing to the calls of koels and Indian orioles with a
backdrop of snow mountains over 20,000 ft. high. The whole effect is
stupendous, and with one sweep of the eye I saw a slope of cultivation
ranging from fields in the grasp of a parched summer, through ripe
winter wheat foliowed by those still green with spring wheat, to those
just released from the frosty hand of winter. ‘Thus in the span of a few
miles live spotted doves of the Indian plains and snow pigeons of the
glacier edges, and whereas a king vulture of the lowlands may soar
abreast of the observer at 10,000 ft. the lordly lammergeier of lofty crags
will course down a ravine, Below one, at 3,000 ft.
Tur MANDAKINI VALLEY
Draining a section of the southern face of the main Himalayan axis,
the Mandakini and her tributaries quickly flow down to Six thousand feet,
being less than three thousand feet elevation at her confluence with the
Alakananda at Rudra Prayag. ‘Till Gupta Kashi the pilgrim track passes
through dry subtropical deciduous forest and is shaded by gracious
mangoes and peepal trees. The birds here met with are golden orioles,
koels, ring doves, spotted doves, Franklin’s wren-warblers and the
like. At Gupta Kashi the path rises suddenly and zig zags up to six
thousand feet ; keeping between the six thousand and seven thousand foot
contours for most of the way, it rapidly ascends within nine miles to reach
Kedarnath at 11,790 ft.
The general trend of the valley is from north to south giving free
access to the rain-bearing winds. Consequently the rainfall is very high
and the forest biotope from six thousand upwards is of broad-leafed trees,
oak being the dominant. Above 7,000 ft. the red flowering Rhododendron
arboreum and above 8,000 ft. spruce (Picea morinda) constitute the chief
co-dominants. .A sombre spruce forest covers the watershed range of the
Mandakini and the Bhagirathi river systems, Pendant moss drapes the
tree trunks, and ferns form arank undergrowth. The chir (Pinus lougt-
folia) grows on certain spurs, exposed to the sun at lower heights.
The Tungnath mountain to the east rises to 12,500 ft. above the lesser
foothills providing a sweeping view of the snowy mountains of the entire
Garhwal. Warm air from the tropical valleys at its base quickly melts the
snow and athick oak forest clothes the slopes right up to 11,000 ft.
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ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAL Si
Undergrowth is very dense providing shelter to innumerable pheasants ;
and trogons are fairly plentiful in the branches overhead. The tree-line
is girt by lilac-flowering bushes of Rhododendron campanulatum. ‘This
lovely rhododendron is scarce around Kedarnath, though in all the side
valleys to the east it is common.
Toe ALAKANANDA VALLEY
The Alakananda River for most of its length from Joshimath to
Rudra Prayag flows in an east-west direction, and the valley has a close
resemblance to the Sutlej Valley. The northern slopes are steep and
devoid of any forest except in the narrow side-streams, while those to
the south are more gentle, bearing fine stands of conifers consisting of
deodar (Cedrus deodara), blue pine (Pinus excelsa), and, on the lower
slopes, chir pine. ‘Till Pipalkoti, the bus terminus, however, there are
few trees and it is difficult to find shade from the mid-day sun.
There is a great need for reforestation on these lower slopes. At Joshi-
math there is very intense cultivation, but good oak exists higher up. Near
here is Vishnu Prayag where the Dhauli Ganga meets the mother
stream. Almost till Badrinath the road runs along the river through a
deep, narrow gorge, what the geographers call a re-entrant. ‘The valley
floor now rapidly gains altitude and wherever the cliffs recede there are fine
forests of deodar, horsechestnut and maple. A mile below the shrine,
the track climbs what must be the terminal moraine of an extinct glacier.
The valley floor from here on is very broad and the three miles to Mana
village pass through cultivated fields surrounded by stone walls. Rain-
bearing clouds fail to push up the re-entrant, and thus it is very dry and
dusty. Desiccating winds from the Tibetan plateau force the snow-line
higher than at Kedarnath. The alps at 12,000 ft., however, provide good
pastures as do the meadows at the snout of the Satopanth Glacier and
the scriptural! source of the Alakananda—the Vasudhara Falls, where the
valley is strewn with debris from crumbling cliffs, and thickets of wild
rose, give security to rosefinches and shortwings. Juniper appears for the
first time to be common on the mountains at 13,000 ft. Monals and
snowcocks are plentiful above the shrine, and great flocks of both species
of choughs wheel about in the sky overhead.
THE DHAULI GANGA VALLEY
This river system drains some of the noblest snow mountains in the
world: Kamet, Mana, Hathi Parvat, Lampak, Hardev, Changabang,
Dunagiri, Nanda Devi and Trisul to mention a few of the highest. The
main gorge, for most of its length, is deep and steep-sided : a fantastic
creation in rock. ‘Till the Rishi gorge the forest is a continuation of the
Alakananda type: oak, deodar, and blue pine. It progressively starts
getting driér with the great Nanda Devi group of mountains to the south
barring passage to the monsoon winds, and the forest is of weathered
Thuja sp., a conifer of very untidy growth. Bird life igs scarce, and for
birds the middle reaches of the Dhauli are very uninteresting. Some
very fine side-streams, however, flow into the Dhault within this stretch,
the largest of which is the Dunagiri Ghad. A trail leads up
through excellent deodar and blue pine timber to the village ot
Dunagiri at 12,000 ft. situated in meadows filled with flowers and edged by
318 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
thickets of . campanulatum and birch (Betula utilis). Ail around
are breath-taking views of great mountains. The villagers .raise a fine
quality of potato, which are transported down to Joshimath on goats and
sheep.
At Malari 10,000 ft. the main axis of the Himalayas is left behind and
the traveller finds himself in the red mountains of the Zasker Range.
The contours recede giving wide views of arid juniper-studded slopes
scarred by landslides. A few deodars at Malari, a mixed stand of deodar
and blue pine along the bend of the river near Bampa, and some biue
pine at Temmersain are all that remain of the forest that once shaded
these mountains. Wild roses grow in profusion around the fields. Rose-
finches are common, andthe screes abound with accentors. Snowcock
and wild sheep inhabit the fringe of the snow.
West of Gamsali is a beautiful valley calied the Amrit Ganga. On its
shingle fed a pair of ibisbills, and among the rocks wagtails had nests,
while Hodgson’s pipits soared in nuptial flights. Red, orange and yellow
pontentillas carpeted the turf and, protected from the dust raising gaies of
the main valley, snow lingered on longer than elsewhere. Though
summer had been heralded by the Asiatic cuckoo at 14,000 ft. on the
Kalla khal, here at the same height male blue-fronted redstarts had just
arrived, and were staking out territories among snow-filled gullies.
There are clearly marked differences between the forest biotopes
of the Mandakini and Alakananda valley systems which reflect directly
upon the respective bird distributions in the two. On more sunny
features birds will be found higher than on shaded slopes, much
as snow lingers considerably more on the latter than on the former.
The precise relationship of the various factors of altitude, slope etc.
requires a vety careful investigation. In addition to these there is the
intrusion of man at all heights where cultivation is possible, and this
introduces a new factor in the ecological set up. For the most part, it
proves a destructive element affecting the delicate balance arrived at by
nature through thousands of centuries of evolution. Erosion, resulting from
faulty terracing, causes very severe damage to the steep slopes which are
a characteristic feature of these mountains, and in time these have
become not only useless for cultivation but the exposed parent rock
renders them incapable of bearing the former vegetation, and at best
they now carry only tangled shrubs of a thorny nature. Fortunately the
very softness of the Himalayan rock, which accelerates the rate of erosion,
appears to be of great value in rapid reforestation if properly undertaken
as has been done in several places in the Mandakini Valiey by the forest
department. On the great rivers of the Himalayas depend the millions
of people living inthe Gangetic plain. Severe deforestation permits quick
flow of water down the slopes, gathering momentum to create havoc,
spreading floods in the low-lands at the foot of the mountains. The
prime need therefore is to stop this despoiling of Himalayan forests.
There is little doubt that an enlightened reforestation programme
would solve the problem of erosion that is systematically making
these hills sterile and incapable of sustaining anything valuable to man or
animals,
I am greatly indebted to Mr. Gurdial Singh of the Doon School,
Dehra Dun, for having introduced me to the truly Alpine heights above
12,000 ft. This has opened up a sphere far beyond limits I had ever
hoped to explore.
JouRN. BoMBAY Nar. Hist. Soc. PLATE I
N
S
THE DHAULI GANGA BELOW JUMMA:
A fierce gorge, very dry and devoid of much tree-growth. The side valleys,
however, have fine forests.
( Photo: K. S. Lavkumar )
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ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAL 319
GAS) Ly
Corvus macrorhynchos. Jungle Crow.
Common throughout the area in all types of country. Saw some
circling overhead at 14,000 ft. in the Amrit Ganga Valley. It is likely
that birds above 6,000 ft. may be the Carrion Crow, C. corone. They
appeared to be larger with a distinctly wedged tail.
Urocissa erythrorhyncha. Redbilled Blue Magpie.
Common around edges of cultivation and in forest from 5,000 to 8,000
ft. A pair building nest near Ukhimath, May. ‘These magpies are great
mimickers, and one very realistically copied the challenge call of the
Whitecrested Kalij Pheasant.
Urocissa flavirostris. Yellowbilled Blue Magpie.
Distribution almost identical with that of the last species, only that it
keeps to higher country and thicker forest.
Dendrocitta formosae. Himalaya an Treepie.
A bird of cultivation and oak forest from the level of the plains to
about 6,000 ft.
Garrulus lanceolatus. Blackthroated Jay.
Very common in broad-leaved forests of the Mandakini Valley and on
the Tungnath Mountain. Several birds flew down to pick up insects from
the surface of the water at Deohra Tal in company with the next species.
A pair with food in bill in dense forest at 7,000 ft.
Garrulus bispecularis. Himalayan Jay.
Keeps to thicker forest than the last species, but common in suitable
forest especially in rhododendron thickets around the Deohra Tal.
Nucifraga caryocatactes. Himalayan Nutcracker.
Only a single bird seen in chir pine at about 4,009 ft. near Pipalkoti.
These are birds of coniferous forests and must be very scarce in the
Mandakini Valley, though they may prove to be common in the other two.
Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax. Redbilled Chough.
A bird of the rugged mountains above 10,000 ft. though it comes down
much lower to feed. Common at Kedarnath, Badrinath and in the
Dhauli Valley, where a few pairs were seen near Lata. Also Dunagiri.
Pytrhocorax graculus. Yellowbilled Chough.
Same as the red-billed species. Very common near the Vasudhara
Falls and in the upper Dhauli at Bampa, and on the Chor Hoti pass,
17,850 ft. and the Marchok La, 18,250 ft.
Parus monticolus. Greenbacked Tit.
Scarce in the Mandakini Vailey, but common in the other two above
6,900 and up to 8,000 It.
320 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL GIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Lophophanes melanolophus. Crested Black Tit.
Very common in both broad-leaved and coniferous forest above
7,000 ft., almost up to tree-line. Freely breeding at 9,000 ft., at Vanya-
kund on the Tungnath Mountain in holes of gnarled oaks. Young in nest,
May. Parents followed by young at Bampa, June.
Machlolophus xanthogenys. Yellowcheeked Tit.
Common in the lower Mandakini and in forest around Ukhimath, up to
5,000 ft. ;
Aegithaliscus concinnus. Redheaded Tit.
Not common in the Mandakini, but frequently seen with hunting ~
parties of small birds, chiefly in deodar and blue pine forest in the other
two valleys. Not met above 8,000 ft. — -
Sitta himalayensis. Whitetailed Nuthatch.
Sinely or in small parties in forest on Tungnath Mountain. Common.
Sitta leucopsis. Whitecheeked Nuthatch. °
A single specimen in deodar forest, Dunagiri Ghad, at 9,000 ft.
Garrulax leucolophus. Whitecrested Laughing-thrush.
Fairly common in the dry deciduous forest of the lower Mandakini, in
small parties.
Garrulax albogularis. Whitethroated Laughing-thrush.
Common in forest undergrowth above Trijugi Narayan, around
Deohra Tal and Tungnath Mountain right up to the very tree-line. Very
confiding as they rummage among the mulch on the forest floor.
Trochalopteron erythrocephalum. Redheaded Laughing-thrush.
Not uncommon among undergrowth and in shrubs along streams,
from 6,000 ft. to the edge of the tree-line. Singly and in pairs.
Trochalopteron lineatum. Streaked Laughing-thrush.
Common in cultivation at medium altitudes. Scarce at 8,000 ft.
Grammatoptila striata. Striated Laughing-thrush.
A bird of thick under-shrubs in dense forest at 6,000 ft. in the
Mandakini Valley. Not uncommon, but difficult to see due to its skulking
habits.
Turdoides terricolor. Jungle Babbler.
A small party in the Mandakini Valley in a field hedge at 6,000 ft.
Pomatorhinus erythrogenys. Rustycheeked Scimitar-babbler.
Fairly common in forest at 6,000 ft. in the Mandakini, where its liquid
call can be heard everywhere.
Leioptila capistrata. Blackheaded Sibia.
Its loud trilling call heard in all types of forest at medium heights,
Carrying food for young, May—at 6,000 ft.
ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAL 321
Microscelis psaroides. Himalayan Black Bulbul.
Noisy flocks in all types of forest in the Mandakini Valley at medium
altitudes. Seemed to prefer the chir and oak interfacies.
Molpastes cafer. Redvented Bulbul.
Met with upto 6,000 ft., in cultivation and in light forest at the edges
of terraced slopes. Not common.
Molpastes leucogenys (leucogenys). Whitecheeked Bulbul.
Generally distributed up to 7,000 ft. throughout Garhwal, except in
very dense forest.
Certhia himalayana. Himalayan Tree-creeper.
Apparently absent in oak forest. Seen only at Vanyakund in mixed
forest. Not met with elsewhere in the Mandakini. In the other two
valleys fairly common in conifer and temperate broad-leaved forest. A
bird carrying nesting material at 9,000 ft. on Tungnath Mountain, May.
- Tichodroma muraria. Wall-creeper.
— Common on cliffs and rocks above Mana at 13,000 ft., and above
Bampa. Haunts precipitous country.
Cinclus pallasi. Indian Brown Dipper.
Common on all the rivers and streams up to 11,700 ft. at Kedarnath,
and at 12,000 ft. on the Amrit Ganga at Daldungi camping ground.
Breeding was progressing at various stages on the Mandakini. Juvenile
birds seen at 6,000 ft., young with their parents a little higher, and birds
carrying food to nestlings at 9,000 ft., May.
Hodgsonius phoenicuroides. Hodgson’s Shortwing.
Common in thickets at 10,000 ft., and higher, both in the Alakananda
and the Dhauli valleys. A great skulker, and rarely seen unless followed
up by the loud whistle of the male.
Saxicola caprata. Indian Stonechat.
Generally distributed in cultivation and on grassy slopes from 3,000 to
7,000 ft. Breeding around Joshimath in June.
Rhodophila ferrea. Dark-grey Bushchat.
Common in Garhwal up to 10,000 ft., in cultivation and forest clear:
ings.
Microcichla scouleri. Little Forktail.
Seen once on the Mandakini at 9,090 ft.
Phoenicurus frontalis. Biuefronted Redstart.
A redstart of the high Himalayas common above 10,000 feet in the
Alakananda and the Dhauli Valleys, where they are met with right up to
14,500 ft. Breeding above Badrinath and at Bampa, where a pair had
nested under the eaves of a house. A single male flitting over snow drifts
at Kedarnath,
322 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Phoenicurus erythrogaster grandis. Giildenstadt’s Redstart.
A single bird at 16,000 ft. below the Bamlas La in the Dhauli Valley.
A redstart of great heights.
Chaimarrhornis leucocephalus. Whitecapped Redstart.
A familiar bird of Himalayan streams above 8,000 ft. Breeding under
eaves of a house in Badrinath, June, and in the Amrit Ganga Valley at
12,500 ft.
Rhyacornis fuliginosus. Plumbeous Redstart.
Common at all heights above 3,000 ft. and up to 12,000 ft. on the
Amrit Ganga. Breeding in progress in the Mandakini Vailey ; young in
nest under eaves of a house at Gaurikund 6,000 ft., and a nest under con-
struction in river bank at 9,000 ft.
Calliope pectoralis. Himalayan Rubythroat.
A bird of the boulder-strewn Himalayan slopes above 10,000 ft. Com-
mon in the upper Alakananda, at Temmersain, and around the village of
Dunagiri. The male sings perched exposed on some large boulder.
Tarsiger brunnea. Indian Blue Chat.
Keeps to dense cover in forest and in open shrubberies at its edge,
above 6,000 ft. Very difficult to see, but the male has a loud and intriguing
whistle which gives away his presence.
Tarsiger chrysaeus. Golden Bush-robin.
A pair at 11,000 ft. in the Mandakini Valley, restricted to a patch of
scrub, where I saw the magain after four days on the return from Kedar-
nath. Very confiding.
Adelura caeruleocephala. Blueheaded Robin.
A pair in deodar forest at 8,000 ft. in the Dunagiri Ghad. Very agit-
ated at my presence and undoubtedly had young in the vicinity. June.
Copsychus saularis. Indian Magpie-robin.
Not uncommon in the lower Mandakini up to Gupta Kashi.
Turdus albocinctus. Whitecollared Blackbird.
Common above 7,000 ft. in the Mandakini. Breeding at Vanyakund
on the Tungnath Mountain at 9,000 ft. The male sings before and after
dawn and dusk respectively. :
Turdus boulboul Greywinged Blackbird.
A bird of lower altitudes than the last species. Common in the broad-
leaved forest of the Tungnath Mountain where it was breeding at 6,000 ft.
Turdus viscivorus. Himalayan Mistle-thrush.
Very numerous above 8,000 ft. both in forest and on meadows. Also
on high alps at 12,000 ft. on Tungnath Mountain.
Monticola erythrogastra. Chestnutbellied Rock-thrush.
A male singing in high oak forest near the tree-line at 11,000 ft., below
Tungnath shrine.
ORNITHOLOGY OF GARHWAL 323
Monticola solitaria. Blue Rock-thrush.
A single male seen by Gurdial Singh at over 16,000 ft. above Tem-
mersain in the Dhauli Valley. To me this bird seems to have a very
erratic distribution in the Himalayas. .Both here and in Nepal [v7de
JBNAS, Vol. 53 (1): 32] it appears to live at great altitudes on the driest
of slopes or cliffs, whereas in the Simla hills I found it very common
on the cliffs overhanging the Narkanda road between Fagu and Theog.
Monticola cinclorhyncha. Blueheaded Rock-thrush. -
A bird of the chief forest and rocky grass-covered slopes between
Pipalkoti and Joshimath. Common. Perching freely on the telegraph
wires. Male’s display song heard throughout the day.
Myiophoneus temminckii. Himalayan Whistling-thrush.
One of the few birds impartial to heights, from the foot of the mountains
to the snow slopes of Kedarnath at 11,500 ft. On all rivers and streams
as well as in oak forest bordering flowing water of any size. A _ bird
carrying food to nest just above the swirling waters of the Dhauli near
Jummagwar, June.
Laiscopus collaris, Alpine Accentor.
Common on the inner Himalayas above 13,000 ft. on the edge
of snow fields. Seems to prefer scree-covered slopes to smooth alpine
meadows.
Prunella strophiata. Rufousbreasted Accentor.
A bird cf juniper and scree slopes at and above 12,000 ft. Apparently
breeding at Temmersain, June.
Hemichelidon sibirica. Sooty Flycatcher.
Very plentiful in oak and conifer at 9,000 ft. on the Tungnath
Mountain. A bird incubating, May. Nest: a small cup placed on a
branch in a very exposed position, high up in a spruce.
Muscicapula superciliaris. Whitebrowed Flycatcher.
In all types of forest from 7,000 ft. to 10,000 ft. A pair had young
in nest at Vanyakund, May. The nest was high up in a spruce, in a
cavity draped with moss.
Eumyias thalassina. Verditer Flycatcher.
Generally distributed in forest from 6,000 to 9,000 ft., commonest at
7,000 ft. Seems to prefer broad-leaved forest.
Cucilicapa ceylonensis. Greyheaded Flycatcher.
Met with in all types of forest below 8,000 ft. ; Commonly associates
with mixed hunting parties of small birds.
Tchitrea paradisi. Paradise Flycatcher.
A pair seen bathing at dusk in the cold water of the Mandakini at
5,000 ft. near Gupta Kashi; the male in fuil adult plumage,
324 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol, 53
Chelidorhynx hypoxantha. Yellowbellied Fantail Fiycatcher.
A family party of this beautiful little bird was seen at 10,000 ft. in
rhododendron thickets on Tungnath Mountain.
Lanius schach. Rufousbacked Shrike.
A pair at 10,000 ft. near Malari, and another pair in the Pipalkoti dak
bungalow compound.
Pericrocotus brevirostris (or ethologus ?). Shortbilled Minivet.
A familiar bird of the Himalayan forest up to 9,000 ft. Appears to be
commoner in mixed forest. A pair building high up in a blue pine at
Vanyakund on Tungnath Mountain, May.
Dicrurus macrocercus, Black Drongo.
Seen in the Mandakini up to about 5,000 ft. elevation.
_Dicrurus leucophaeus. Grey Drongo.
A slim drongo of the hill forest and cultivation edges up to a little
above 7,000 ft. Very common.
Phylloscopus affinis. Tickell’s Leaf-warbler.
From 9,000 ft. up to any height where there is sufficient shrub cover
this little bird is common. Dome-shaped nests in thickets at varying
heights from the ground. Building at Bampa, June.
Phylloscopus occipitalis. Large Crowned Leaf-warbler.
_ Freely breeding in gnarled oak trees at Vanyakund, May. Most nests
had young.
Phylloscopus. spp.
A large number of other species of this difficult genus occur in the
Himalayas at all heights and in all types of forest and cultivation. » i! wenYyILyStp J
ae Y - oy CS eon mnppgsvg G snsojjie*y WB
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‘ Fhe
HALOPHYTIC PLANTS OF BOMBAY AND SALSETTE ISLANDS 3A1
Bombay and its suburbs, where the soil contains a normal amount of
sodium-chloride.
(2) Along with Clerodendrum inerme, on the dry soil, grasses of
the types /imbristylis polytricoides, F. ferruginea, Sporobolus glaucitolius,
S. pallidius, S. orientalis, Panicum glabrum, Paspalum disticum,
Cyperus compressus, C. rotundus are found.
(3) The next plants in succession, which grow on a soil moister and
slightly richer in sodium-chloride than the soil of Clerodendrum inerme,
are Aeluropus villosus, Sesuvium portulacastrum and Suaeda truticosa.
(4) In the next of the soil conditions, the following plants are
found: Aeluvopus villosus and Sesuvium portulacastrunt.
(5) The next stage is entirely covered by Aeluropus villosus.
(6) The final stage is formed by the mangroves consisting of the
following species: Avicennia alba, A. officinalis, Rhizophora mucronata,
Certops candolleana, Sonneratia acida, and oD | as ‘4 :
Names of Plants ae aaiug |e Eee Geographical
Scale | Gis coe Distribution
q nA| on ao | #
Ay
1. Acanthus ilicifolius Linn. + + + +t | Tropical Asia,
Australia.
2. A. ebracteatus Vahl. — — + — | Tropical Asia.
3. A. volubilis Wall. ; — + _ -— | India.
4, Acrostichuim aureum Linn. —_ _ + + | Tropical Coasts.
S. Aegiceras majus Gaertn. ... + ap si + | Old World Tropics.
6. Arthrocnemum indicum |
Mog. + F — + |India, Tropical
= Africa.
7, Atriplex stocksii Boiss. + — ~ — |India, (Coasts of
Saurashtra).
8. Avicennia alba Blume* + ate + — :
9. A. intermedia Griff.* — — “+ — as
10. A, lanata Ridley* — --- + — |Malaya Peninsula.
11. A. marina Forsk.* ~ — _ ro sd
12. A. officinalis Linn. + 4 + — | Tropical shores.
342
TABLE 1—(Continued)
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 63
Names of Plants
13. A. nitida (alter) Sesse & |
14,
48.
. Bruguiera caryophyllacoides
. B. eviopetala Wight & Arn. |
_ B. gymunorhiza Lam. a
. B. parvitlora Wight & Arn.
. Carapa moluccensis Lam.
. Cerbera odellum Gaertn. ...
. Ceriops candolleana Arn. ...
. C. roxburghiana Arn. 000
. Clerodendrum
. C. nereifolium Wall. cee
. C. siphonanthus (R. Br. in
. Cressa cretica Linn.
. Cycas rumphit Miq.
. Daemonorops leptopis
. Hugenia corymbosa Berg..
. E. fruticosa Roxb.
. Excoecaria agallocha Linn,
. Lumnitzera
. Podocarpus neritfolia
. Rhizophora mangle Linn. .
. Rk. mucronata Lam. AC
. Salicornia brachiata Roxb.
Moc. |
Brownlowia lanceolata
Benth.
. B. vetdelli Hemal
Blume
qnery me
Gaertn.
Ait. Hort. Kew).
Mart.
Derris uliginosa Benth. o.
Heritiera littoralis
(Dryand. in Ait.
Kew).
Hort,
Hibiscus tiliaceus Linn.
Intsia (= Afzelia) retusa
Kurz.
. Kandelia Rheedit Wight &
Arn.
Kochia indica Wight
coccinea
Wight & Arn.
; ib, racemosa Willd.
. Nipa truticans Thunb.
. Onocosperma filamentosum
Blume
. Pluchea indica Less.
D. Don.
S. herbacea Linn. ane
|
| seaP |
La
a}
o =
a
(op) ZS
Sunder-
bans
+
+
Malay
Peninsula
pt++tt+t++ ++
J+ ++] |
P|
Geographical
Distribution
Tropical America,
Tropical Africa.
India, Burma,
Spicy Islands.
India, Malaya,
Tropical Asia.
Old World Tropics.
India, Malaya.
Old World Tropics.
India, Malaya.
Tropics.
Tropics.
India.
Malaya.
India, Malaya.
Cosmop. Tropics.
Malaya, Australia.
Malaya.
Old World Tropics.
Peru.
Burma.
‘Tropical
Malaya,
Islands.
Asia,
Pacific
Old World Tropics.
Both Tropics.
Malacca. ©
| India, Malaya.
India,
Tropical Asia and
Australia,
/Old World Tropics.
| East
of Ganges,
Malaya, ~
| Malaya.
Tropical Asia and
Australia.
Himalayas.
Littoral Tropics.
Old World Tropics.
India.
Europe,
oi) et) aa
POET PTT TSE ATS IPE TT NEN IE TT IE TET EE TIT ET TTY
HALOPHYTIC PLANTS OF BOMBAY AND SALSETTE ISLANDS 343
TABLE 1—(Continued)
Name of Plants
49,
50.
oll
52
53.
34.
30.
36.
o/.
58.
59.
60.
61.
62.
63.
64,
Salsola foetida Delile =
S. kali Linn.
Salvadora persica Linn.
Scyphiphora hydrophyllacea
Gaertn,
Sesuvium portulacastrum
Linn,
Sonneratia acida Linn.
S. alba Sm.
S. apetala (Buch.-Ham. in
Syme Emb. Ava.)
S. griffithiz Kurz. aes
Suaeda fruticosa Forsk. .«.
S. linearis Mog.
S. maritima Dum.
S monoica Forsk.
S. nuditlora Moq. A
Tamarix gallica Linn. ...
Thespesia populnea Corr. oe.
anc
Salsette
>
3
Q
a
e)
AQ
a
1
rT
+
a
Islands
Malay
Peninsula
Geographical
Distribution
Tropical Africa,
Arabia, India.
North region and
Temperate Aus-
tralia.
The Orient, India,
North Africa.
Islands of Spices.
Tropics.
India, Malaya.
Old World Tropics
(India, Burma,
Andamans).
India, Burma.
Burma.
North ‘Temperate
Regions.
North America,
Cuba.
North ‘Temperate
Regions, Aus-
tralia.
North Africa, West
Asia, India.
India.
India, Burma,
Ceylon, Africa,
Europe, Siberia,
China, Japan.
India.
* According to Index Kewensis all the 4 species of Avicennia mentioned hete
and marked with? asterisk are one and the same, that is Avicennia officinalis
Linn.
344
10,
els
. Cyperus compressus Linn..
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
TABLE 2
Alphabetical list of Gramineae and Cyperaceae found in marshy places near
Names
Bombay
and |
Salsette
Sunderbans,
Bengal
Islands |
GRAMINEAE
. Aeluropus villosus Trin. «.
. Panicum glabrun Gaud. ...
. Paspalum distichum Linn.
. P. scrobiculatum Linn.
. Setaria glauca Beauv.
S. verticillata Beauv.
. Sporobolus glaucifolius
Hochst.
. 9S, ovtentalis Kunth.
. S. gallidus Boiss. aes
S. virginicus Kunth.
S. tvemulus Kunth. ves
+
+
+
ip
—
+
CYPERACEAE
C. exaltatus Retz.
C. tnundatus Roxb, ee
C. malaccensis Lam.
. C. votundus Linn. oes
. C. Scariosus R. Br.
. C. tegetiformis Roxb.
. Fimbristylis
ferruginea
Vahl.
. E. monostachya Hassk.
. F. polytrichoides R. Br.
. &. subbispicata Nees. .
. Scirpus articulatus Linn....
. S. grosses Linn. sist
. 9S. littoralis Shrad.
. 9S. trigueter Linn.
+++{++ +
+t tt
1
i
—
Bombay ard Salsette Islands and Sunderbans, and their geographical distribution.
|
Geographical
Distribution
| North Africa, Greece.
North temperate and
Tropical Regions.
Tropics and Subtropics,
Old World Tropics.
Europe, Temperate
Asia.
Cosmop. (In all parts of
the world).
Punjab, Sind, Tropical
Africa.
India, Punjab, W. Penin-
sula, Ceylon.
Punjab, Waziristan,
Rajputana Desert,
Afghanistan, Baluchis-
tan, Arabia.
India, Ceylon, Africa,
America, Australia,
i eebropics:
\India, Ceylon, Burma,
Tonkin, Cambodia.
All parts of the world
Tropics.
Tropical
Australia.
| India, China.
Tropical Asia.
All parts of the world.
India, Australia,
Tropical Asia,
Both Tropics.
Asia and
Tropics of both worlds.
Tropics of old world.
Tropical Asia.
Africa, India, Australia.
India, Malaya.
Europe, Asia, Egypt.
Europe, Australia.
CONCLUSIONS
(1) In Bombay and Salsette Islands six stages of different halophytic
plants can be marked according to (a) the extent of the nearness of the
plant to sea, and (4) consequent richness of sodium-chloride in the soil.
HALOPHYTIC PLANTS OF BOMBAY AND SALSETTE ISLANDS 345
(2) On comparing the number of halophytes of Bombay and Salsette
Islands with those of Sunderbans, Malay Peninsula and South Africa, it
~is found that Malay Peninsula is richest in the species having 35 out of
62 of the total list, ie. 56°4% ; Bombay and Salsette Islands stand second,
i.e. they possess 27 species out of 62. The percentage comes to 43°5%.
Sunderbans and South Africa have only 24 and 21 species respectively
out of total 62, ie., 38 7% and 33:9% respectively.
(3) Sunderbans seems to be richer than Bombay and Salsette Islands,
in Gramineae and Cyperaceae that are found near the salt marsh places.
The former has 17 out of total 26 species, i.e., 65°4%, while Bombay and
Salsette Islands possess only 11 species out of total 26. This amounts to
42°3% of the species.
8. SUMMARY
It is noticed from this investigation that the distribution of the man-
grove vegetation is chiefly composed of Avicennia alba which seems to
be very prolific in growth and germination. Further in Bombay and
Salsette Islands six stages of different halophytic plants can be marked
according to (i) the extent of the nearness of the plant to sea, and
(i1) consequent richness in sodium-chloride content of the soil. A com-
parison of the number of halophytes of Bombay and Salsette Islands is
made with those of Sunderbans, Malay Peninsula and South Africa,
and the percentage of different species is calculated.
9, ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
I thank the University of Bombay for the award of the research
studentship to carry out these investigations and Dr. F. R. Bharucha,
the Director of the Institute of Science, Bombay, for his help. I also.thank
Professor 8. P. Agharkar for his keen interest and suggestions from time
to time and Rev. Fr. H. Santapau for aly going through the MSS.
cmt inl na critical suggestions.
10... REFERENCES
1. Biswas, K. (1934): A comparative study of Indian species of Avicennia
Notes. R. B.C. Edin. 18: 159-166, tt. 243-246.
2. Blatter, E. (1905): The Mangrove of Bombay Presidency and its Biology.
JBNHS, 16: 644-656. |
Bo Blatter, EH}. and McCann, C. (1934-1935) : Cyperaceae. /BNHS, 37: 1-
_ 4, — — — (1935): The Bombay Grasses. 1.C.A.R., New Delhi, Scientific
Monograph No. 5. J
Si, (COOKS, IN (1908) : The Flora of the Presidency of Bombay. (Taylor and
Francis), London. .
_ 6, Navalkar, B.S. and Bharucha, F. R. (1942) : Studies in the Ecology of
Mangroves. III. The chloride content of the sea-water, soil solution and leaf cell
sap of the Mangroves. Jour. Uni, Bom. 10 (5): 97-106.
7, — — — (1949): Studies in the Ecology of Mangroves. V. Chemical
Factors of the Mangrove soil. Jour. Uni. Bom. 18 (3): 17-35.
8. Talbot, W.A. (1902 & 1949); The Trees, Shrubs and Woody-Climbers
of the Bombay Presidency. The Government Photo-zincographic Press, 3rd Ed.
(Reprint), Poona.
KASHMIR—A FISHING HOLIDAY
BY
A. St. JoHN MAcbDOoNALD
(With two plates)
A holiday in Kashmir had always remained an unfulfilled ambition
of mine for 20 years or more. In the earlier years when I was more
robust for the privations of seeking mahseer in hitherto unfished waters,
I always gave choice to such exploits, being also influenced by the
crowds of army officers who booked beats well in advance and with
whom one had to enter into competition. But now, with a softening
with age, the desire to search out the unknown has passed and monster
mahseer no longer an ambition. The fly and fly rod aided by the
salubrious climate at 6,000 ft. are a relaxation more fitting to my mood
and fancy.
It was in this state of mind that I decided on a two months’ holi-
day in May and June of this year (1955) to the trout waters of. the
Bhringi and Lidder rivers in Kashmir, and I was not disappointed,
indeed surprised at the excellent fishing available and the variety that
went with it, from raging torrents under a canopy of conifers to wide-
open valleys planted out with rice where almost every variety of fishing
was in abundance: the big water of the main streams; the side channeis
overgrown with willows; the mill streams where the large cannibals
lurked under a briar or cut-under bank; calm pools where dry fly could
be used to good purpose; the big water in the lower beats where
spinning is permitted and where good trout have been caught. Last
but not least the trained and built-up streams, the Kokarnag and Kotus,
presenting the angler with a series of pools and falls with weed beds
and side vegetation, where only expert roll casting could get a fly to
the hide-outs of the large trout—the reason why I failed.
A blank day was a rarity, even with log floating in full force, and
two trout on at the same time by no means uncommon. This happened
to me not once but a dozen times, crowned by my getting my largest
fish 3 pounds 5 ounces on the tail fly, and one of 1 pound 13 ounces
on the dropper.
The Bhringi was far the most popular, and most beats were fished
on most days except for only short periods of a day or two by indi-
vidual anglers. These, I was glad to see, were mostly army officers
who are maintaining the old fidelity to past army traditions with
growing enthusiasm, Those I saw in action worked hard with 1li-
chosen or hired rods and tackle, frequently using a stiff bamboo rod,
twisted undressed line, all of which made it hard work, but they seemed
to relish the experience—and they caught fish!
KASHMIR—A FISHING HOLIDAY 347
I myself did not use the spinning outfit much, as I found I got
all the sport I needed on fly and caught all my larger trout in this
way. But there is plenty of water and scope for the enthusiast with
level-wind or threadline outfit. .
For the seeker of big fish, he must concentrate on the mill streams
unless he is fortunate enough to get permission to fish on one of the
Trikker beats—formerly the Maharaja’s reserved waters, now generally
reserved for V.I.P’s. But with plenty of fish from half a pound to
two pounds and more, one can be well satisfied with a day’s sport,
especially since no beat is less than a mile and a half, and some are
as much as three miles long.
If one has caught game fish like mahseer, or even the sporting little
Barilius bola in trout fashion—that is, with fly rod and fine tackle—it
is difficult to enthuse over fishing out Salmo ferio or Brown Trout——
a silly poor-fighting fish, and by habit poor compensation by comparison.
The big trout takes up his abode, like a python, under the exposed
roots of a tree or a cut-under bank, where food comes to him to
gobble up; only very rarely does he rise to fly or chase a lure or
spinner. Quite often they are found in a hole in a mill stream no
larger than a billiard table, full of frogs, so that when they are hooked
they give little or no sport. They are certainly not elegant to look
upon; and poor by comparison with the young active fish for the table.
To catch them one must deviate from the fine art of fly, lure, or
spinner, and dangle a fly with a few feet of line out, under bushes,
trees and rocks. But it is the angler’s vanity, I suppose, that makes
him yearn for size—a big one is something to talk about—and holding
a record singles you out from others. Or perhaps is it just a sense
of achievement ?
I personally got all my enjoyment from casting a long line across
to the other side under some bush or rock to draw out a hiding’ fish,
and the Naubug in this respect provided the most delightful fishing.
It was wide, shallow, slow and clear; you saw your fish, and tried to
prevent him seeing you by long casts and fine tackle.
Most of the beats I fished were at 6,000 feet elevation or over.
There were always plenty of friendly jackdaws, a cuckoo somewhere
about, and on the slopes near cultivation chukor; but bird life was
not in the same prolific abundance as found when fishing for mahseer
in the foothills.
But I have digressed from my purpose, which is to give a note for
the benefit of others on conditions prevailing at present, with sugges-
tions on fishing in Kashmir today.
Let me assure all those interested in trout fishing in Kashmir that,
contrary to common assumption, instead of deteriorating the fishing
has actually improved and has passed pre-war standards, certainly in
the Bhringi and Lidder Valleys.
From a study of the remarks in the Fishery Watchers’ books it
would appear that round about 1942 the fishing in the Upper Bhringi,
Bidhar and Dyus was hardly worth a visit. This was also the case with
the Lidder after the big landslide when most of the fish died from some
toxic deposits brought down by the flood,
348 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
I fished in all 14 beats for 41 days, from the 2nd June to 17th
July 1955, and caught in all 565 fish of which 186 were retained,
weighing 1854 pounds. This total was made up as follows:
3 pounds and above ... 2
2 to 3 pounds Seige, 1/4
1 to 2 pounds cape ala,
Below 1 pound antes)
186 (all weighed to the nearest ounce,
and no selection or keeping only
large fish).
My best fish was 3 pounds 5 ounces, and best day 6 fish weighing 13
pounds 12 ounces.
I have given tabulated details later on to show how the various
beats fished, and weights and lengths of some of the larger fish with
their locations.
Bic Trout: In the 41 days I fished I saw only one trout of
about 5 pounds that jumped my hook, and lost three in big water
that ran down cascades where it was impossible to follow with most
of the line out when they either broke the cast or slipped the hook.
These I never saw and may have been larger mountain barbel.
Having set out briefly the results 1 had, I will, for the benefit of
of members, set out in detail conditions as I found them.
FORMALITIES AND TRAVEL: To enter Kashmir an Entry Permit is
necessary. Foreigners from overseas can obtain them at the port of
entry from the Tourist Bureau. Those resident or working in India
must apply to the Ministry of Defence (Kashmir Permit Section),
New Delhi, either direct or through the High Commissioner’s Office,
and for Indian Nationals the District Magistrate of the District of
residence. Fourteen clear days’ notice is required, but one is well
advised to give a month.
Travel from Delhi is well organised and can be done in the lap of
comfort by air or air-conditioned coach and fast train to Pathankote,
where again there is the alternative of air or road. The distance by
road to Srinagar is 267 miles and takes a day and a half by bus or
motor coach. Cars can complete the journey in a day. By air it is
only one hour’s journey.
The approach from Lucknow via Jullunder is not well organised—
in fact neglected—and train accommodation and timings are bad.
Srinagar is 5,200 ft. above sea level, but the road from Jammu
rises to 7,000 and 9,000 ft. to cross the watersheds of the Ravi/Chenab
and Chenab/Jhelum. So it is a good run and a full day’s work for
a car; speeding is not possible as there is very heavy traffic on the
road. The road distances from the following places are as follows:
Bombay ... 1,441 miles
Delhi ey 564 _,,
Lucknow Se BUT PE
Patna A ISOS 5.
Calcutta eels £9 Oi es
(pjpuocpony “[ ‘35° "w :80204q)
‘nyeg ye AgTTeA IeppryT Vy], ‘IEppr]T Py} Wo, no jo seq su vy
Yyy
Y fy
Journ. Bomsay Nar. Hist, Soc. PLATE IT
The built-up Kotus showing one of the large pools formed by stone bunds at
intervals throughout its course.
A nice bag of trout caught at Wahdan.
(Photos: A. St. J. Macdonald)
KASHMIR—A FISHING HOLIDAY 349
There are good dak bungalows and petrol pumps all along the route,
but for your own comfort take gammexane or flit as both flies and
bugs are bad at all halting places. On the way up we did not reach
our resting place for the night until 1 a.m. owing: to engine trouble,
and the only accommodation available was a room in the bazar in
a place glorying in the name of Royal Hotel. I had hardly got un-
dressed when I saw some 17 bugs on and about my pillow. I spent
the night seated on a step by the bus stand, for I would face any
discomfort rather than be feasted on by ‘pahari’ bugs. If going by
bus, as I did, it is advisable to take a sandwich lunch with you as
meal halts are more for Indian tourists than for European, and the
stand is often a long distance from the Rest House.
Suggestions: If going for a short holiday with limited
kit, air travel is the quickest and most comfortable; if going, as I
did, for a fishing and hiking holiday for 6 weeks, take your own car
for choice, or send your heavy kit on ahead by servant and follow
by air. There is an out-agency of the N.R.Y. in Srinagar should you
care to risk booking your heavy luggage. Taxi fares are high in
Srinagar: small cars 12 annas a mile, big cars Re. 1, station wagons
Re. 1-4 and, as most of the beauty and fishing places are 50-60 miles
away, your Car soon covers its own expenses.
Accommodation: Do not allow any Agency to run your
affairs, or they will most certainly rook you on a first visit. There
is more than sufficient accommodation for Europeans in Srinagar in
hotels and house-boats. Here is a list with charges.
Hotels (European style) Single room Double room
Nedou’s RS, All Rs. 39 per day
Palace yy (xe 7m) 40 ”
Park . Feel Canes
Boulevard op de mp OG 95
Golf View 39 12 ”) 22 ”
House Boats (5 room and fully furnished).
Special Class ... Rs. 800 per month.
‘A’ Class 500 ” 650 9
618)” (lags SON RAR OW ¥
NotEe.—These can be obtained much cheaper on the spot by bar-
gaining.
_ Licences and permits, bus fares and tour trips etc. can all be
obtained through, and with the aid of the Government Tourist officials,
always ready to help. There are also many brochures available which
are full of information for the tourist.
Supplies and Provisions: Shops are all well stocked
with all forms of stores at reasonable prices and nothing need be taken
up from below. Scotch is Rs. 28 a bottle, English and Dutch beer
Rs. 3-4 per bottle. Meat and fowls, milk and ghee are available at
all the fishing beats, and good cooks and servants obtainable in Srinagar.
350 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Subhana, the man JI had, made excellent scones and bread in camp
and cooked a good meal besides generally managing moves and porters.
Fishing tackle is available from three or four good shops, but it is
very expensive owing to the 80% duty charged on imports; but they
have everything. Camp kit and tents can be hired at reasonable charges.
Ir Siime WeAS kine! OClarewess Ine rae tor trout
fishing are :—
Rs. 400 per rod for season (1st April to 30th Sept. ).
,, 200 ,, 4, 5, half-season (3 months to run consecutively).
2 300s ay) peel week
ry) r ” » » a day.
Changing of beats and dates are permitted provided one week’s notice
is given, and provided they are available. A weekly beat can pe
changed with a weekly, and a daily with a daily one. A beat is
deemed to be available under the rules if found vacant 3 days before
the commencement of the second period of fishing.
Season licence holders are entitled to fish all the trout waters open
to fishing once in the season, provided they are available. A beat or
beats may be allotted a second time provided they are available. Half
Season licence holders are entitled to fish sel the beats once in the
season.
Weekly licence holders are not entitled to book weekly streams
more than once, but a beat may be allotted a second time if available.
Daily licence holders will not be allotted during the season any daily
beat more than twice in advance, but they may, at the discretion of
the Director of Fisheries, be permitted a second spell. Kulgam streams
and spring streams are allotted only once in the season to any one
angler.
The size limit is to in. in most beats, and 12 in. in the built-
up streams. A to in. fish weighs only 6 ounces and there are so
many of these that they are a menace, and the limit could well be
fixed at 12 in most of the beats I fished, while the quota is kept
at 6 fish. This could also be fixed at 9 on the Bhringi and Lidder
beats, if anglers cooperate.
Communications: Most of the beats can be reached by car
over good roads, running for most part along the streams. Travellers’
huts or rest houses are conveniently situated if you have your own
car; otherwise a tent is more mobile and saves the forward planning
of obtaining permission to use the bungalows which may have to be
vacated at short notice for officials on tour.
Below is a summary with notes of results on the beats I fished.
There is charm and variety in fishing the various beats. The Upper
Bhringi, and Bidhar its upper tributary break up into several channels,
and the lightest tackle and small flies can be used in the side streams,
with excellent dry fly water in places.
The Dyus is the upper Bidhar ‘and is a beat of two mountain
torrents running through heavy conifer forests in parklike surround-
ings, where one has literally to feel round and under boulders for fish,
but what fish there are are of good size.
KASHMIR—A FISHING HOLIDAY 351
The Naubug, I found a delightful stream. It is slow flowing,
wide and shallow, running through an open valley planted out with
rice, where casts had to be long and tackle fine to keep out of sight
of the fish, and in many respects was the nicest fishing I had in
Kashmir. Here I ‘caught the bird’! A sparrow took the fly on the
backward cast.
The Middle and Lower Bhringi, with the Mahdan, Yenyer, and
Batkut beats on the Lidder, is all big water, with four times the volume
of water coming down the Lidder to that in the Bhringi. Most of the
best fish are taken here by spinning.
The Kokarnag and Kotus are built-up streams and hold plenty of
good trout. The Kokarnag (lower beat) is spoilt by running through
villages for most of the way, though there are plenty of fish. I
caught my two best fish in this stream, one in the midst of a mother’s
meeting by a bridge, and the other among washermen busy flogging
clothes on stones !
The Kotus I found the most difficult to fish because of being planted
out with willows to such an extent that there 1s not room to swing
a cat in many of the best places, in fact I spent most of the day
recovering my flies and cast from overhanging branches, but here too
there are plenty of good trout.
Tue Burrnct is divided into 4 beats of approximately 2 to 3 miles each.
Upper (56)' All excellent water to suit all tastes; the main channel
is fast heavy water, the side streams are small and wadeable,
and full of fish but mostly small. There is plenty of water for
two rods for a week.
Middle (54). I found it most disappointing, it is mainly flowing in
one fast channel and had few fish. The Ahlan is also in this
beat, and though it has a number of excellent pools, there are
very few fish.
Lower (52). This is all big water in a series of large pools and
runs, and some good fish of 6 and 7 pounds have been recorded.
I only fished it for one day in July and did no good owing
to a snow water flood.
Lowest (49). I did not fish this water, but it too holds good fish
in April and May.
NausuG, BrpHar, AND Dyus. These are all the upper tributaries of
the Bhringi.
Naubug Lower (59). Is all excellent water traversing rice fields
in an open valley, it is wide, slow and shallow, with some nice
pools, and is the most fascinating fishing, where a long cast is
necessary and water in places slow enough for casting up stream.
There are plenty of fish and of a rich golden colour.
Naubug Middle (62). From the Larnu Bridge to a point 3 miles
up the road to Guridramer and is similar to the lower, running;
in an open valley and holds plenty of fish. It leaves the road
* Miles from Srinagar,
352 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST.-SOCIETY, Vol. 53
some distance on the right bank for the first two miles. A
really delightful beat.
Naubug Upper (66). This is about 5 miles in extent; the lower
portion is through rice fields, but the valley closes in and the
upper reaches are through fir forest and exquisite scenery,
where it is a series of falls and pools and should be excellent in
September. I found no fish high up, but they were plentiful
in the frog area among the rice fields. This is all excellent water,
above 6,o00 ft. elevation.
Bidhar (58). This fast flowing and clear stream carries more water
than the Naubug, and has more fish, and is very popular with
anglers. It runs in a number of channels and has good water
all the way and is near the road.
Dyus (60). Is an upper tributary of the Bidhar which is joined by
the Mantar a slightly smaller stream. Both are mountain
torrents falling fast from the delightful evergreen forests where
giant firs keep the water in shade most of the day. It
is not the form of fishing I fancy, searching with a short line
round boulders and swirls for hiding trout, but the parklike
surroundings more than SoLapemeeite for these limitations, and
the trout are large.
THE LippER VaLLEy. This is a large river with four times the
quantity of water in the Bhringi and flows down a valley 3 or
4 miles wide, up which is Phalgam a favourite holiday resort
at 7,000 ft.
Batkut (54). The river in July looks more like a hold for 4o-pound
mahseer than for trout, difficult going and the whole volume
of water runs down in one fast channel. I caught only one
fish and only saw two others. It is reported to be better in
September. ‘There was in progress heavy timber floating which
I fancy sent the trout to ground.
Yenyer (50). This is the next beat down the river and is peter
water as it breaks up into three channels and should be good
fishing, but I did no good. I spent 18 hours flogging the water
to catch 9 fish, 5 of which I returned. I was too late as the
snow melt was at its peak. It is I believe good in the early
Spring and Autumn.
Wahdan (50). This is the next beat down stream and the river
opens up very considerably and about half the water is taken
off by canals and irrigation channels and the fishing is really
excellent when the water is not discoloured or swollen from
melting snow. I found the fish here very strong and game,
the best in fact I had struck anywhere.
Kotus (38). I was permitted by the kindness of Mr. Malik, the
Director of Fisheries and warden in charge, to fish this
stream for a day. The allowance is only 4 fish of 12 in. in a
day, but it is a most interesting little stream built up and trained
into a series of pools and falls through villages and rice fields
overgrown for most part by willows. It needs expert casting,
plenty of wading, and the utmost skill in dropping a fly under
bushes, briars, and over weed beds and washed roots of trees.
———eooorrrrr
KASHMIR—A FISHING HOLIDAY 353
-I caught more willows than fish but enjoyed every moment of
the experience. Big trout have been taken and many others
are reported to be still in hiding, but they were too skilful
for me. ; ‘
Kokarnag (46). This small stream in the lower Bhringi valley
is divided into two beats and like the Kotus is trained and built
up but without the willows to hamper the use of a rod. The
upper is in open rice country but the lower for most part is
through villages, and though the fish are large and plentiful the
environs do not appeal to the taste, as dhobi ghats, bathing
places and mother’s meetings are hardly conducive to trout
fishing. I caught my largest fish under a bridge in the village
with a dozen women and children on the opposite side but 7 ft.
away! But it lends variety to the many forms and conditions
under which trout are caught in Kashmir.
Suggestions: Undoubtedly the seasons and waters must
be studied and selection made accordingly. When it gets warm
and water is reduced the fish move up stream, and it is a fairly
safe bet to find the best fishing in the upper reaches in September,
and in April/May in the middle and lower beats. June is also
good but at the end of the month snow water begins to come
down and the afternoon fishing is often spoilt. July is a poor
month in the snow-fed rivers, when fish are temperamental and
will feed one day and not move the next, and sleeper or log
floating is then in full swing.
INeavGaeieaeltOLOndmarneas Ciusl tiuce: i ViTw Malike and. his) statt
are to be congratulated on the fine job they have done in
restoring stocks in the face of great difficulties and an unen-
lightened public unaware of the time and labour involved in
maintaining stocks of fish both in size and numbers, and the
irreparable damage that is done if fish of all sizes are removed
and limits exceeded. This leaves the Department working in
the dark, and statistical data based on the entries in the watcher’s
books are not representative of the true facts, so that stocking:
is upset and fish suddenly become scarce. Watchers and
Government shikaris are licensed to accompany anglers on all
beats, but it is sad that a number of cases of these shikaris
using frog and worm to make up the quota of disappointed
anglers have been reported. This is a great shame as anglers
should be the best field workers of the Fishery Department, and
on them and their reports the warden should be able to improve
the lot of all. We can only hope that, as the young school of
anglers becomes conscious of these facts, conditions will improve.
It was pleasing to see the old fidelity to past traditions growing
among young army officers who are taking up fishing, and may
we soon see camps as in the old days, dotted about over the
beats and full notes of their observations in the watcher’s books.
There are no natural enemies—or at least I saw no traces of
otter or eagles or fish hawks, except only the small kingfisher—
and with the abundance of food in the form of frogs and tadpoles
354 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
in their millions, willow moth, mayfly, beetles and grasshoppers,
and fish breeding freely, we can look for better days than now.
Ropvps & TACKLE: A nine-foot fly rod and reel to suit with
30 yards of tapered dressed line and 50 yards of backing is
enough. 1 and 2 tapered casts for one dropper, and flies and
lures as suggested later. A Threadline outfit or casting rod
and levelwind reel for the big water should meet all requirements.
Baits & Lures: I found that dark rather than light flies
were favoured at this time of year; at least this was my ex-
perience. Even the popular Coachman was disdained for Zulu,
Watson’s Fancy, Dunkeld, and Mountain Lady. The local
shikari will press you, I suspect on a commission basis
with dealers, to use Peacock lures, March Brown, and on some
beats Teal and Green, but with the host of young anglers only
beginning and all using these flies, I intentionally avoided as far
as possible using these as every trout of size must have been
pricked frequently by these roughly made lures on heavy tong
barbed hooks. I make my own flies to suit local conditions.
At this time of year frogs and tadpoles are in their thousands
and almost jump into your cup of tea; they certainly will share
the tent with you, and the young rice is full of tadpoles making
up the chief diet of trout. On several occasions I shook frogs
and tadpoles out of the mouths of hooked trout, finding as many
as 3 frogs at a time, and handfuls of black mess that was once
tadpoles. I used a peahen wing feather for the wing and a
silver or yellow body that worked well, and as a dropper a black
body and tail with heavy black hackle and no wing. These
took well in the rice areas. In the forest areas I found Alexandra
and Mountain Lady most taking presumably because of the
presence of beetles, both green and black, large numbers of
which I found dead in the water or in the mouths of hooked
trout. ‘
There were of course days and reaches where anything would have
been acceptable but, on the days when fish were off, these flies served
me well. Lake and sea trout sizes are the best on a No. 8 hook, and
lures on two hooks with body covered with lead foil to give weight.
Spinning is allowed on some beats in pools and in snow water,
and the golden reflex minnow is most popular. I only used the spinner
when I had to, and in all only caught 18 fish in this way on a brass
fly-spoon or 14 in. gudgeon, so cannot offer any suggestion, but there
are plenty of large deep pools that will tolerate a heavy spinner as
the water is big and fast.
Conclusion: This, then, is the picture of fishing in Kashmir
today in the months of June and July. I fancy September would be
even better, and have the additional attraction of excellent and easy
chukor shooting in October, with monal and, snowcock and koklas and
kalij in the upper forests.
355
KASHMIR—A -FISHING HOLIDAY
6ZE |'20 ¢ Sql € | “ZO gf {SSicinw 2 98h FEZ
TS 20 ¢ ‘Sql € | “20 7.2% E9P Le OF
92 SOG EH | = OKs Pe € p
eee | ‘dl Ti sé OT ce [ ie fe)
S PANE Eo ie Pee eat zr
02 pSZOIC SGT Sy szonTe) ian Ze 9 61 74
8zg |202L “IZ Clee iti
i IAle Conditions
Expt.
}
———
to | GUE | Captivity Uromastix hard-\ Not attacked
laris wicktit, living.
andSm.
MIcvopUus
8. | 5a. col- | do. Uromastix hard-\Viscera and
luris and wckiz, chloroform- | the tail taken
5 ml. mic- ed with ventral in-
Sopus cision,
9. |1 a.col- do. Varanus mnionitor,; Nottaken {The tail of the
laris | living. Varanus was
caught firmly
by the hedge-
hog between
its jaws. The
lizard attacked
the hedgehog
furiously and
in doing so its
mouth was in-
jured severely.
10. | 5a. eol- do. Varanus monitor, Viscera
laris and chloroformed with taken
5. Mm. MiC- a ventral incision.
vopus
11. | 1a. col- do. Eryx johnit (Nine| The entire
larts inches long), liv-{ animal was
ing. taken
12, | 1a. col- do. Plyas = wiucosus Taken The hedgehog
laris (13” long), living. caught it by
the tail and
rolled over it,
to give chance
to the snake to
strike against.
its spiny ar-
mour. In doing
so the snake
succumbed to
injuries & was
was broken by
pressing it bet-
ween the jaws.
devoured.
13. |5a. colla- | Captivity Pigeon (Columba Viscera The main
vis and 5 livia), living. (Its taken point of attack
mM. nUCYO- wings were broken) was the anus.
pus,
14. |13 a.colla-| Captivity Eggs. (a) Not (2) ‘he’ con
vis and 12} and semi- (a) Hen, taken tents were
m.'micro-| captivity - |sipped when
pus. provided in a
plate.
(6) Pigeon. (6) Taken (6) The egg
HEDGEHOGS OF THE DESERT OF RAJASTHAN
365
Pee eR ET
y |
Bp pe | Conditions | Food given omeeetations Remarks
15. | 5a@.colla- | Captivity Rats, (Rattus One was Prey was kill-
vis and 5 vattus), living. caught, kill-| ed by biting its
72. MICYO- ed and its |legs and face,
| pus. viscera was | and was shared
taken by all the in-
mates of the
cage.
16. | 13a@.colla-| Captivity | Rats chloroform-| Viscera
vis and 12} andsemi- |ed, with ventral taken
mt.micro- | captivity | incision.
pus.
17. | 10a. colla- do. Gerbilles (Merz- do,
vis and 10 ones hurrianae and
m. micyo- Tatera indica),
pus. chloroformed, with
a ventral incision.
18, do. do. Squirrel (Funam- do.
bulus pennant),
chloroformed, with
ventral incision.
19, do. do, Rabbit (Lepus day- do. Very often the
anus), chloroform- living animal
ed, with ventral | was attacked.
incision. Once the hed-
gehog injured
it severely on
the medial side
of the thigh.
20, 113 a. colla- do. Bats (Ahinopoma| ‘The entire ee
rts and 12 _kinneart), living, janimal was)
m micro- taken except
DUS. the patagi-
um
21. 13 @. colla-| Captivity Meat of goat, Taken In captivity
visand 12) and semi- | fresh. it was the most
m. micro-| captivity relished food
pus, and pieces of
lungs and liver
were preferred.
22, do, do. Milk of cow and do. Less preferr-
buffalo, fresh, boi- ed in captivity
led and sugared, but in semi-
captivity the
hedgehogs sur-
vived inainly
on milk.
23, (10 a. colla- Captivity Gram, wheat, bar-| Not taken When mixed
ris and 10 ley, millet and rice, with cow-dung
(Mm. micyo- etc. | some grains
pus. were picked
| up.
366 | JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
No. of are
| -
Expt.| snimals | Conditions | Food given Observations Remarks
24. (13 a. colla-
vis and 12) Captivity 20 common ve-| Not taken.
m. micro-| and semi- | getables.
pus. | captivity
25. do. do. 10 entire plants | do.
found in the same
locality where the
hedgehogs were
collected.
The interesting feature of the ae habits of these heaeeP ee was
that they developed a cannibalistic tendency in the presence of a dead com-
panion. Whenever a dead hedgehog was placed in the cage its inmates
rushed to the carcase and started feeding on it, beginning with the viscera
(Prakash, 1953). They were observed to be very fond of their own young
ones ; even the mothers fed upon their progeny (Prakash, 1955). They
also showed remarkable resistance to hunger and thirst. In cages they
could be kept alive without food and water for four to six weeks. At
one time two of them (A. a. collaris) were locked by mistake in the.
laboratory. On reopening after 10 weeks the hedgehogs came out alive.
SUMMARY
1. A wide variety of substances was presented to captive and semi-
captive hedgehogs to find out their food preferences.
2. Alimentary canals of freshly caught hedgehogs were examined
to investigate their food in nature; which was mainly non-vegetarian.
3. Hedgehogs, Hemiechinus auritus collaris Gray and FParaechinus
mitvropus micropus Blyth prefer insects and fresh goat meat in cap-
tivity and milk in semi-captivity.
4. Hedgehogs did not take any plant or vegetable in captivity
and semi-captivity ; moreover no plant tissue was found in the contents of
their alimentary canals.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
We are grateful to uNEsco and Shri S. D. Pande, Secretary, Birla
Education Trust, for financial help in this investigation.
REFERENCES —
Adams, A. (1899): The Western Rajputana States. London.
Krishna, D. & Prakash, I, (1955) : Ecological studies of the Mammals of
Rajasthan Desert: Distribution. Proc. 42nd. Ind. Sci. Congr. Part II. 310.
Krishna, D. & Prakash, I. (1955) ; Ecological studies of the Mammals of
Rajasthan Desert: Hedgehogs: Fossorial habits. ibid.
Krishna, D. & Prakash, I. (1955): Ecological studies of the Mammals of
Rajasthan Desert. Hedgehogs : pene habits. ibid.
Krishna, D. & Prakash, I. (1955): Hex dgehogs of the Desert of Rajasthan
Part 1. Fossorial habits and Distribution, JBNHS. 53 (1): 38-43.
Prakash, I. (1953) : Cannibalism in Hedgehogs. JBNHS, sr: 730-731.
Prakash, I. (1954) : Swimming and locomotion of captive hedgehog.
IBNHIS. 52 (2 & 3) : 534-5.
Prakash, I. (1955) : Cannibalism in Hedgehogs. JBNAHS, 52 (4) : 922-3,
THE MALAYAN GREAT TIT
BY
JAMES CAIRNS, M.C., M.B.O.U.
(With a plate)
The Malayan Great Tit (Parus major ambiguus) is so severely
limited in local distribution that, for this reason alone, it must pe
considered a very rare bird; and as far as I am aware it never has been
recorded from any Malayan island large or small. Nevertheless for
the past thirty-five years, to my knowledge, it has been a resident
and breeding species in Penang Island. Malay residents of venerable
age with whom I frequently converse have known the bird since
boyhood, back to 1885. Its home is the seven-miles-long mangrove
forest reserve on the west coast, the width of which varies from one
hundred yards to half a mile. After years of intimate association with
this reserve I estimate that the Great Tit population is, at the very
least, in the region of 50 pairs per mile and is probably twice this
number. The bird also has inhabited for a similar length of time the
vast mangrove forest which engulfs the estuary of the Sungei Merbok,
West Kedah, where it is equally numerous; and it is indeed surprising
that no ornithologist past or present ever has reported its presence
from either habitat. The published annals of distribution areas are
therefore woefully incomplete:
The Malay name of the Great Tit is chiak bengala bakau, the
probable origin of which could be the bird’s white-cheeked resemblance
to the Java Sparrow, whose Malay name is chiak bengala subang.
The two, however, have no further similarity.
One of my perennial habits has been to visit the tits’ reserve
once every week and through such persistent continuity I have amassed
considerable information concerning the life, domestic economy, habits
and ecology not hitherto known or recorded. This paper is a collated
and correlated presentation of important essentials and characteristics
of a wonderful little bird.
Methods of food-searching are typically tit-like: hanging inverted
from sprays and twigs; stretching out from very slender perches;
carrying dead leaves sometimes much larger than themselves to any
convenient place and standing on them with both feet while they
probe every curl and curve. ‘They are particularly partial to exploring
dead leaves on the ground itself, and tangles of storm-broken boughs
strewn about the glades, making many trips from this debris up to
the canopy and from the canopy back to the ground during their
feverish restless rummaging. They drink rain water from holes high
up in trees. In this forest paradise they have no fear of man and
feed without the least concern at very close range. They may on
occasion be seen in young mangrove saplings, but their real love is
the older trees. They constantly associate in due season with
368 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Arctic and Crowned Willow Warblers (Phylloscopus b. borealis and
P. 1. inornatus), White-eyes (Zosterops p. williamsoni) and Fly-eaters
(Gerygone sulphurea) feeding and singing and moving together: the
first two species often in great numbers. On such occasions, and in
such mid-March gatherings, the tits utter what I consider to be their
true nuptial song. The forest rings with these wild, clear, tempestuous
phrases te-bet-chu, te-bet-chu, te-bet-chu (accent on the middle syllable)
repeated over and over while glancing through and gracing the
canopies. Prolonged experience and accumulated evidence have
convinced me that pairs occupy definite territories and zones of activity.
They have their feeding circles and cycles. They have their favourite
glades where one may see aS many as 20 pairs at a time communally
preening, singing, feeding and flirting: and again there are glades
where no tits ever come. The bird is not what I call an early morning
exhibit. The best hours of the day for viewing it are between noon
and 5 p.m.
Like all tits our bird occupies a favourite nesting site year after
year so long as it lasts. One of many known to me is a small api-
api stump only about 3 ft. high and 5 in. in diameter, which has been
eccupied by a pair for the past seven consecutive seasons, and it still
stands. The cavity walls have become smooth and shiny from long
use. The stump, semi-decayed, stands in a transept of scattered tall
trees and the sun shines on it only for one short hour of the long day.
At this spot on 16th January 1955 a beautiful male Great Tit suddenly
appeared some 20 ft. to my right, greatly agitated and uttering a
continuous stream of rapid notes rrrr-chi-chi chi-chi-chi followed by a
running churrr and flirting its tail and wings in unison. Presently it
flew to the nest stump which has a three-way split top. After some
tilting and testing it disappeared by sliding down the entrance funnel
head first. In about_a minute it was out again, then in again, thea
out, calling incessantly. At this point the female appeared from
nowhere and joined the male on the stump. The male’s notes then
changed to pe-lay pe-lay pe-lay pe-lay. (All the black of the female’s
plumage is less intense than the male’s and her central under-body
band is narrower; but each sex has a small grey-white notch inset at
the base of the black nape.) She slid into the cavity without hesitation,
emerged, went in again and then out. Both birds appeared to enjoy
themselves thoroughly by wriggling upwards through the narrowest
of the three exits. Eventually they drifted off together down a corridor
of green light. This is typical of the site-prospecting and frolicking
that begins in December and goes on through January, February and
early March.
It is positively amazing how these birds start bustling and building
almost to the day —the third Sunday in March— year after year. On
20th March, two pairs of tits were seen in mixed leafy and dead scrub
at ground level. Both females were collecting what appeared to be
shredded bark or fine fibres while the males attended but did no
collecting. The take-off was awaited with quiet concentration for it
is no easy matter to follow, even with binoculars, the fast flight of
such small grey birds through sun-and-shadow-dappled forest. A
second factor which increases the difficulty is that the birds change
hree-foot high stump.
.
it int
Nest site of the Great T
Mangrove home of the Great Tit.
(Photos: J. Cairns)
THE MALAYAN GREAT TIT 369
their relative positions during flight. The first pair to depart were
almost immediately lost in transit behind massed foliage but the second
pair, travelling through older forest, were successfully marked down
150 yards from my viewpoint. Both birds stopped on the same bough
of a leafy tree, then some moments later the female flew to the apex
of an isolated tree-stem standing in a glade, and at once dived vertically
down a cleft just below the summit with her crowded beakful of fibres.
On emerging both flew off in a direction away from me. The normal
routine of all building pairs I have ever seen is the same. Females
- collect. materials and shape the nests while males accompany their
partners on all flights at this period; but later on males spasmodically
help to construct second nests. The stem on closer examination proved
to be very decayed indeed. For this reason it could not be climbed
nor could it be successfully viewed from any adjacent height. The
entrance to the nest was on the north side about 1 ft. below the summit
which was judged to be 13 ft. high. It was not a site which, without
preknowledge, one would examine in casual passing. There being no
necessity to inspect at this stage, withdrawal was made without
disturbing tree or nest.
On 27th March my Malay climber and I returned with a 15 ft.
ladder. The stem, however, was too frail to support even the slight
weight and so I held the ladder erect close to the tree while Rali
gingerly eased his way upwards. With the aid of a torch he was thus
able to peer into the cleft without touching the tree. He reported the
nest held no eggs but appeared to be complete and made of soft
substances which could not be identified in the meagre light. It was
73 in. down the stem from the lower lip of the entrance and completely
filled the width of the cavity bottom.
We returned again on 3rd April and on reaching the tree stem
tapped it gently and out came the female tit immediately. She flew
off without any undue protest. This order of things is completely
reversed when incubation is advanced. Some birds refuse to leave the
nest and may be lifted out; but from those that do, scoldings are
eruptive and vehement. Repeating last week’s procedure I held the
ladder upright and in due course Rali reported the nest contained five
beautiful eggs. These were chalk white, slightly glossed, thickly
freckled with liver brown over the large ends, while the lower halves
of the shells bore few spots. The grouping on one egg was dense
enough to form a cap. They measured 17X13, 17X12, 17X14,
16x13, 18x14 mm. The nest was shaped like two-thirds of a
saucer, this being the shape of the hollow it filled, and along the
‘straight’ third which was actually a flat curve, measured 3 in., and
the diameter 22 in. The whole structure was amazingly shallow, 3/10
of an inch only at the deepest centre of the interior, and only a 4 in.
thick at the thickest part of the material which in places was less
than a + in. thick. Like all tits’ nests previously seen, this nest was
unique in these respects, and also in the composition of its fabric.
The interior was completely black; composed of a uniform layer of
very fine hair-like fibres probably collected from tidal debris, overlying
and woven into a lower layer of beige-coloured vegetable felt probably
collected from swamp sedges. Below the felt was a second layer of
370° JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
black fibres, and below these a second discontinuous layer of cinnamon-
coloured felt. Throughout, the lower layers and nest rim were stiffened
with fine wiry grass threads. At one point on the edge of the structure
were two small tangles of white spider silk; and the eggs lay on tufts
of dark-tipped grey rat’s fur. The presence of wiry grasses and
vegetable felts denotes journeys outside the forest to obtain them.
Wood chips, if any, below a nest are entirely fortuitous. Nests are
always very simple, very shallow, neatly moulded by the sites con-
taining them, and have burnished black interiors.
While at the nest I recorded several new song and call phrases.
If separated in flight or in different trees the notes were tee-hoo-hee,
tee-hoo-hee, followed by chiky chiky chiky chiky chiky. Constantly
uttered was a swelling phrase sounding exactly like te-pel-weetyu, te-
pel-weetyu. Pray-tayv-tay-tay-tay was a rapid alarm: a soft choorip-
choorip-choorip never ceasing when entering or leaying: and when
food hunting the call became a double syllable, the first accented —-
teehu-teehu-teehu— very like the see--saw notes of the European Great
Tit. On the point of leaving I saw the female take fresh material into
the nest which may have been to repair minor displacements; while the
male, idling in thin foliage, sang —tay-cheetsaway-cheet, tay-cheeis4
away-cheet— softly and sweetly to himself.
A week later I was astonished to discover a second pair of tits
building in the south side of the same tree stem, just 2 ft. below the
occupied nest. Great Tits were everywhere and their loud clear calling
wheest-tu-wheest, wheest-tu-wheest made the forest resound. In one
hour I saw 12 pairs.
Although I visited the reserve as usual on 17th and 24th April
I did not go near the nesting tree on these dates; but on my rst of
May visit I saw the male feeding his full-fledged family. While the
parent was away foraging, the young also foraged on their own but
were not observed to collect anything. The male fed each young bird
in turn and on his every approach there was great agitation: fluttering,
gaping and fluffing of feathers. After being fed they continued to
explore leaves while the male preened. ‘Ihe female did not once appear.
Young birds are strikingly different from adults. The whole head,
nape, throat, breast and under-body band are grey not black. The band
itself is very narrow and runs down only as far as the lower breast,
fading out altogether before reaching the position of the legs; whereas
in the adult it runs right along the abdomen, between the legs and
over the vent to the tail. The edges of both mandibles in the young
are pale yellow-white; the inside of the mouth is flesh-coloured, and
the white cheeks are filmed with grey. Near this family I found
myself surrounded by a party of six adult tits. In a phase of a fracas
between two males one bird, which was hanging by its feet head down
and swinging up to peck at the other perched immediately over it,
was visibly surprised when the upper bird dropped below it and hung
itself by its feet from the hanging bird’s legs. The added weight
broke the grip of the latter and the falling birds almost hit the mud
before they separated and flew off,
THE MALAYAN GREAT TIT O71
May 8th was a day of monsoon rains and violent winds. While
sheltering in a pondok’ quietly enjoying a pipe two male tits came
out of the mangrove and perched on high, half dead trees standing
in an open swamp close by. From these stormy heights they sang a
song-phrase, new and unforgettable, for a continuous period of twenty
minutes before returning to the rain drenched forest. In a wilderness
so wet the song itself had a liquid, storm-tossed quality: wet-it will
wet you-will wet you-will wet you: wet-it will wet you-will wet you-
will wet you is an almost exact rendering. At any rate by repeating
it I can relive the rapture and sense the storm.
Throughout May the mangrove is rich with flying first broods,
but in the first week of June second clutches are being laid in the
same nests, or second nests are being built in new sites. Incomplete
nests, complete nests without eggs, fresh eggs, incubated eggs or
newly hatched young may be found through June and well into July
on the same day. ‘This necessarily means late July nests provide
discoveries of incubated eggs in August, but I have never known a
single instance of a clutch being laid entirely in August or, at the
inception of the season, in February. Egg-laying occurs from March
to July inclusive with some incubation overlapping into August; and
so the forest remains clamorous with fledglings into September.
Confined as it is strictly to the mangrove belt one naturally expects
all nests of the Great Tit to be in the mangrove belt. This, however,
is not the case. In recent years a phenomenon has developed which
is fantastic but true. Many pairs breed outside the forest altogether
though adjacent to it. These nests are at comparatively great heights
from the ground in holes of isolated dead trees which have been left
standing in a felled area. On 5th June I watched a male for half an
hour as it made a wide circuit of such trees before entering a hole
in one only 60 ft. from where it started and from where I was standing.
This detour appeared to be a deliberate attempt at deception. Measured
exactly by rope the site was 71 ft. from the ground on the south
side of the hole. The nest was an oblique 7 in. from the entrance
which was very narrow indeed, a mere 1.6 in. in diameter. Thirty
ft. higher in an adjacent tree was an old Serpent Eagle eyrie. Both
tits were seen to enter the hole with materials, one waiting till the
other came out. At such a height in such a tree standing in denuded
land one would never dream of looking or expect tits to breed. The
whole width of the male’s chest was black and the central body band
very black and broad. This is usual in full breeding plumage. Flight
is fairly fast, somewhat jerky but more or iess straight and lacks the
erratic side-slipping of the sunbirds. A week later—12th June—the
nest contained one egg, and five eggs two weeks later—igth June.
There were, however, only three newly hatched chicks on 2nd July.
I suspect a lizard which I saw come out of the hole, of having eaten
two. The three flew on 16th July. Also on 5th June, two miles
further north, a second nest was located. A male in fine fettle and
plumage was seen coming out of the mangrove with materials which
oe re
—————$s
+ A small thatch hut for shelter from rain and sun.
372 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 63
it carried to one of a group of trees standing in the open. The chosen
hole was again facing south and was g2 ft. from the ground. On
26th June it contained seven eggs, five of which hatched on oth July
when 2 addled eggs were removed. The young flew on 23rd July.
Again on 12th June in the same region two more nests in similar
situations were marked down in the same way. The first of these
was in the extreme end of a broken bough curving south at a height
of 40 ft. up a roo ft. dead tree. When my Malay climber was out
on the limb, just 6 ft. behind the entrance, the female flew out and
perched close to his head, bobbed and curtsied, wove from side to
side, flirted her wings, spread her tail and uttered a plaintive chi-choo-
it, chi-choo-i1t continuously. The total length of the horizontal hollow
was 52 in. and the nest was half way in and not at the end, lying
in mid channel as it were, with the outer rim 24 in. from the entrance
which was 2¢ in. in diameter. Strangely enough the nest though
complete held no eggs. When Kali was 8 ft. below the limb on his
way down, she was back hanging inverted by both feet to the lower
edge of the entrance. From this position, like an acrobat on a trapeze,
she levered herself up and in with a single thrust. During the descent
the tree vibrated with heavy movement but she did not come out.
In the circumstances I can only assume that her anxiety to return to
the nest may have been due to the imminent expulsion of her first
egg. At any rate there were five eggs on 18th June. Oa account of
the frail state of the tree it was not climbed again, but I saw a
family of five young with the parents on 16th July. Later in a storm
the limb broke off. From it I recovered the nest and found it to be
an abnormally compact unit of rats’ fur lightly laced with the usual
fibres and felts. The male of this pair was observed to catch a medium
sized butterfly with sand-coloured underwings. which was carried in
the bill to a high branch. Pinning the insect under its feet the tit
pulled off both wings and dropped them, then proceeded to devour
piecemeal the whole of the inch-long thickish body. On 24th July
this experience was repeated. A friend and I saw a male tit pull
the wings off a pale yellow and brown-winged butterfly and pass the
body to a fledgling. The second site was at a height of 85 ft. on
the inevitable south side and contained a half made nest. On 26th
June it held five eggs which were successfully hatched and the young
seen on 31st July. New call phrases uttered by this pair and carefully
recorded were a soft anxious chee-pee, chee-pee, a cheery yur-tu-erly,
yur-tu-erly and a_ spirited chi-cher-o-ki-kee, chi-cher-o-ki-kee when
screened from each other.
To appreciate fully the significance of this exodus from the forest
for nesting purposes it is, I think, necessary to state these facts. Up
to 1947 the mangrove was 100 to 500 yards wider than it is today
throughout its whole length. In the years following, these widths were
felled after a bund had been constructed to cut off the sea from the
planned reclamation. But for reasons unknown many single trees and
groups of trees were left standing in the great denuded areas of now
rotting stumps, prostrate trees, tangled scrub and rank grasses, and
with the passage of time are slowly dying, or have died, from lack of
salt water. It is therefore probable that the pairs now nesting in the
THE MALAYAN GREAT TIT 373
open are instinctively returning to nesting sites which were once deep
in the forest. It might well be that, as the result of the encroachment
of man, the tits may soon spread eastwards to the kampongs! which
are not so very far removed from their present secluded sanctuary.
SUMMARY
The Malayan Great Tit is a resident breeding bird in Penang island.
This is supported by the writer’s personal knowledge of the fact
covering a period of 35 years and by statements made by reliable local
Malays who can remember the bird since boyhood as far back as 1885.
The combined sources of evidence thus account for a period of 70 years.
The bird is confined to the west coast mangrove belt where the present
population is estimated to be between a minimum of 350 pairs and a
maximum of 7oo pairs. But in recent years many pairs have bred in
cleared areas adjacent to the mangrove.
Diet includes butterflies taken on the wing.
Indifference to danger and extreme curiosity are inherent charac-
teristics.
Nuptials begin in December; and the egg-laying season extends
from mid-March to mid-July with some incubation overlapping into
August. :
At least two, sometimes three, broods are reared by one pair in a
single season. The full clutch of eggs is normally three, five or seven
(in not a single instance out of more than 300 nests examined has
a bird been found brooding two, four or six eggs). Incubation lasts
14 days; and the young fly on the 14th day after hatching. Nesting
sites vary in height between 3 ft. and 92 ft. above the ground. Call
and song phrases present great variety in tempo, quality and character,
and those recorded are probably far short of the full range.
1 Habitations.
SOME ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH
HIGH ALTITUDES OF THE HIMALAYAS!
BY
BiswAMoy BISWAS
Zoological Survey of India, Calcutia 13
(With a map)
INTRODUCTION
Any form of life, at a given time, represents the product of the inter-
action of its environment and heredity. The environment has indeed a
key-role in the process of evolution. A correct appraisal of the mecha-
nism of evolution cannot, therefore, be made without a thorough study
of the environmental factors through which life passed and is passing,
and their effects on the living things.
For the purpose of biological studies, the earth is divided into a.
number of ecological zones, each of which has its own distinctive charac-
teristics. The zones have, moreover, similarities with one another.
Though for various reasons one cannot delimit such zones into water-
tight compartments, yet it is perhaps possible to define certain geo-
graphic areas possessing certain specific attributes and supporting a
certain type of life. High altitude is one such ecological zone, and its
environmental factors differ substantially from those of lower elevations.
DEFINITION OF HiGH ALTITUDES OF THE HIMALAYAS
From the point of view of physical geography it is possible to define
a particular elevation limit above which everything may be termed as
‘high altitude’, but as a biologic environment the definition of high
altitude should not depend entirely upon the elevation of land above
mean sea level for reasons set forth below.
The Joint Commission on High Altitude Research Stations in its
report (see Korif, 1954) has defined ‘high altitude’ as regions ‘in excess
of about 7,500 ft., or about 2,c00 meters.’ Unfortunately, nowhere
does the report give any basis for this definition. This report reveals
that most of the high altitude research stations listed in it are solely
or mainly for the study of the physical sciences; that the few stations
where biological investigations are or can be conducted are situated
between 10,000 and 14,000 ft., the only three exceptions being estab-
lished at fairly northerly latitudes (34°N 47° 19’N); and that the only
station of the Himalayas viz. Gulmarg Research Observatory, Kashmir,
is located at about 9,000 ft. at 34°N. These would tend to show that
factors for researches in the physical sciences have been mainly con-
sidered in adopting the above definition by the Commission. Besides,
many people, including some biologists, have a rather vague conception
of what constitutes the high altitude zone for biological purposes, and
OP rt tt a tf a
* Published by permission of the Director, Zoological Survey of India.
ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OF THE HIMALAYAS 375
different altitudinal figures ranging between 5,000 and 10,000 ft. have
often been quoted as the lowest limit of ‘high altitude’. From my
personal acquaintance with animals at high altitudes in Sikkim’, and
in the Mount Everest area of Nepal as a member of the Daily Mail
Himalayan Expedition 1954 (Biswas and Khajuria, 1954; Izzard, 1955;
Biswas, 1955), I find, however, that the Commission’s definition seems
hardly tenable in so far as the Himalayas are concerned. And, I am
sure, biologists with first-hand knowledge of animals and plants of the
high Himalayas and the environment in which they live will agree
with me.
The ‘high altitude zone’ as a biotic environment possesses certain
attributes which have a definite and understandable effect on the life
that exists there. The most obvious physical factors of high altitudes
are reduced atmospheric pressure, low temperature, and high lght
intensity. There is no doubt that they have an important bearing on
the physiological processes of organisms living there.
While the fauna of high altitudes of India is only perfunctorily
known, the floristic studies demonstrate interesting gradations in the
forest types as we go above the temperate coniferous zone. It has
been seen that the ‘Alpine Fir-Birch Forest’ zone as defined by
Champion (1936, p. 269) is the uppermost limit in the Himalayan
region, beyond which there is a sharp transition of flora with
rhododendron shrubs predominating. This transition obviously corres-
ponds to the different biotic environments met with in the two zones.
Champion’s ‘Alpine Fir-Birch Forest’ zone may, therefore, be taken
as the lowest limit of high altitude as a biotic environment. The
limit of the alpine fir-birch zone varies from west to east, being about
3,000 meters (ca. 9,840 ft.) in the western Himalaya, and 3,800 m.
(ca.. 12,500 ft.) in the eastern.
It is apparent that the physical elevation alone does not give rise
to high altitude conditions. Lurthermore, it is apparent that the limit
differs widely according to the local conditions of geographical position
and direction of the mountain ranges, moisture-content of the air,
velocity of the wind, ice formation, avalanches, landslides, solifluction,
composition of soil, etc. (Griggs, 1946). Thus, in the Rocky Moun-
tains, Washington, the tree-line is about 3,300 m. (ca. 10,800 ft.),
while on different slopes of Mount Washington, New Hampshire, it
varies between 1,200 and 1,740 m. (ca. 3,900 and 5,700 ft.), and at
Bay of Islands, Newfoundland, it is only 300 m. or about 980 ft.
(Clarke, 1954)! Likewise, there is indeed a sharp difference in the
altitudinal figures for tree-lines on the northern and southern faces of
the Himalayas.
ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS
In an area as interesting as high altitudes of the Himalayas, the
animal and plant lives should also be highly interesting, since they
tend to pose a number of important biological problems of a funda~
mental nature. But, unfortunately, we know so little about the animals
2
1 See JBNHS, 54: 530 (1953).
bs)
376 JOURNAL, BOMBAY. NATURAE HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
of high altitudes that we are unable to make any headway. Not very
long ago the ounce or snow leopard (Pantera uncia) used to roam
about the high Himalayas in fair numbers, but it is rather scarce now--—
so much so that it has been included in the list of protected Indian
animals (prohibited for shooting and export). It follows, therefore,
that proper measures ought to be taken soon to prevent its extinction.
But, so little is known about the ounce — its status, its life, its habits
and habitats — that no effective measures, however genuine, seem possi-
ble immediately for its preservation. India has a substantial trade in
fur of high altitude animals, but the possibilities of expanding the
trade by scientifically rearing these animals cannot be explored, because
nothing very much is known about them.
We are better acquainted with game mammals and game birds of
the high altitudes because of their value as sport, but nothing is known
about the adaptive adjustments that have enabled them to. flourish
under such highly specialized conditions.
_IJt would then appear that there are a number of zoological problems
associated with high altitudes of the Himalayas, which require our
urgent attention. The more important ones are briefly discussed below.
It is, however, necessary to state that most of these problems are so
interlinked that they are grouped together under certain general
captions.
FAUNAL STUDIES
_. Faunal. studies are the first prerequisite for any type of detailed
zoological researches. Although a number of Expeditions (mostly politi-
cal !) made. collections of animals at high altitude areas of the Himalayas,
no systematic faunistic survey has as yet been conducted. there. A
thorough survey .of animal life of the high altitude area demands,
therefore,. our first and foremost attention. Faunal studies may be
conducted roughly along the following lines ;_
Systematics and Zoogeography: Studies on syste-
matics of animals and zoogeography should provide faunal lists of
the various groups of animals, a knowledge of their horizontal and
vertical distribution, the proportion of palaearctic and oriental elements,
and other relevant topics.
Ecology: A study of the physico-chemical and biotic elements
of environments and their effects on animal life is also in demand.
These investigations are likely to be of far-reaching consequence
in understanding the process of organic evolution. They may also
throw light upon many palaeogeographic problems, so little understood
at present, and on the spread of. pests. and diseases.
Bronomics or ANIMALS
High altitudes present certain specific environmental conditions that
require special adaptations. Limited amount of vegetation, extreme
- aye Pear? 41 r. . A an in 3 y 9
temperature condition, strong wind, freakish weather, low oxygen-
and moisture-content of the air would normally make it. difficult -for
ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OF THE HIMALAYAS 377
animal life to survive and flourish under such conditions. In spite of
this, it is amazing that the Himalayas support a great variety of fauna
in the higher domains. How these animals live, breed and flourish
there is indeed one of the most fascinating problems.
Studies of the life-histories of different animals — their modes of
reproduction, various stages of development and growth — all involve
observations both in the field and in the laboratory throughout the
year. Furthermore, various physiological processes, such as respira-
tion, circulation, digestion and metabolism, and food and breeding
habits, call for extensive studies, experimental and otherwise.
Severe weather conditions of high altitudes are either resisted or
escaped by animals through migration to more favourable areas, or they
induce a spell of dormancy. These phenomena may be studied under
the following heads:
Hibernation: This state of dormancy is so far known to be
brought about by gradually decreasing temperature, inadequacy of
heat regulating mechanisms, shortage of food, dryness of food, con-
centration of carbon dioxide in the hibernacula, accumulation of fat,
glandular disturbances, etc. Though some work on the hibernation
of some animals has been done in Europe and America, it is not
known how far the factors mentioned above induce hibernation under
the prevalent Himalayan conditions.
Aestivation: This is another state of dormancy, but is
brought about by drought instead of by low temperature. With the
increase in altitude, there is an increase in the rate of evaporation,
thereby causing loss of water-content leading to aestivation. The
question of aestivation has, therefore, a direct bearing on the water-
relation of animals.
Overwintering: This involves passing through severe
winter conditions. So far as is known, animals resist the cold of
winter by the development of protective covering, by. decreasing
physical and metabolic activities, by developing cold-hardiness, or by
a combination of some or all of these measures. Aithough the pheno-
menon of overwintering has been known in insects as well as in
vertebrates occurring in other parts of the world, it is as yet unknown
for the Himalayan animals.
Migration: The escape from severe weather conditions in-
volves an orderly movement of animals. In some groups, such as
birds, this takes place on a geographic scale, that is, they migrate
from one country, even from one continent, to another. In certain
other groups, such as insects, geographic migration is rather rare.
In typical cases, it may be noted, the migrated animals return to
their original homes when conditions become favourable.
PARASITOLOGICAL STUDIES
_ The incidence of parasitism among animals dwelling at high alti-
tudes is very little known. There is a large scope for investigation
378 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
of ectoparasites and endoparasites of animals living in this zone, espe-
cially of the warm-blooded vertebrates. Studies on the seasonal
fluctuation in the frequency of parasitic infection, though known for
some of the parasites at lower altitudes, have not been conducted for
high altitude areas. The usefulness of such studies in relation to
human and animal diseases is obvious and need not be underlined.
STUDY OF VARIATIONS
It is a well-known fact that no two individuals of the same
species look exactly alike. This is due to the biological fact of varia-
tion. The study of variations is one of the most important aspects
of evolutionary biology, and is one of the main pivots on which the
process of organic evolution, as understood today, turns.
Variations are of two types, phenotypic and genotypic, the essen-
tial difference between the two being that the latter is heritable though
not always perceptible, while the former is detectable but may not
be heritable.
Low temperature is known to bring about certain interesting varia-
tions in animals, two of which are mentioned below:
Cyclomorphism: This is the phenomenon of phenotypic
changes in structure brought about by change in the season. Such
structural changes are usually transitory and reversible, and the animals
regain their original structure on the return of normal season. The
phenomenon has been observed in certain crustaceans, and is believed
to be caused largely by low temperature. It is, however, likely that
some other factors, unknown at present, may have contributory réles
in producing cyclomorphism. |
Jordan’s Rule: This is the relationship between the tempera-
ture and the number of vertebrae in closely related species of fishes.
Fishes of colder waters tend to have more vertebrae than those
occurring in warmer waters. This phenomenon is an instance of
genotypic variation. Although verified for different latitudes, one does
not know to what extent Jordan’s Rule is applicable to fishes residing
in higher altitudes where water is sufficiently cold. This principle may
be of use to fishery biologists in ascertaining the origin of populations
among the species of fish that exhibit this phenomenon. It is also
worthwhile examining how far this phenomenon is applicable to other
groups of vertebrates.
CoNCLUDING REMARKS
It will have been noted from what is detailed above that the high
altitudes of the Himalayas have received less than their merited share
of attention, although they are pregnant with possibilites for some
outstanding zoological researches of a fundamental nature. There is
no gainsaying the fact that the bearing of such researches on man is
far reaching. Studies of the adaptation of animals to extremely low
temperature, low atmospheric pressure, low oxygen-content of the
atmosphere, limited food supply (qualitative and quantitative), high
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
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Map 1.—Part of the eastern Himalayas showing the suggested locations* of the
‘High Altitude Biological Research Stations.
ZOOLOGICAL PROBLEMS OF THE HIMALAYAS B79
rate of evaporation, high light intensity, high ultraviolet radiation, etc.
are of paramount importance in understanding human reactions to
similar environments, which are helpful not only in war but also in
peace.
In a country like India where the whole of the northern frontier
is bounded by the Himalayan ranges for some 1,200 miles, high alti-
tude areas may be found anywhere along this length. In spite of this
rich, varied and vast field, there has never been any organized attempt
to study the fauna or animal life of these areas. The establishment
of an institute for such studies seems imperative, and will certainly
prove worthwhile. With increased attention to the biological sciences
during the Second, Five-Year Plan period, the establishment of a High
Altitude Biological Research Institute will be quite in keeping with
the march of time.
The institute should be located either in the eastern Himalaya or
in the western, the central portion that lies between Garhwal and the
Sun Kosi Valley (this is, however, outside the Indian territory) not
being particularly suitable, because the majority of vertebrates, and
possibly many invertebrates, of this area are ‘intergrades’ between
the eastern and western Himalayan forms.
Accessibility and safety, in addition to high altitude, are the obvious
requirements for a good site. From this point of view Thanggu in
' North Sikkim appears to be an ideal place for the institute (see
map). It is situated in the Tista Valley at 13,000 ft., that is, about
the tree-limit, and only five marches from Gangtok, from where it
can be reached by foot or pony. Gangtok may also be easily con-
tacted in emergency through wireless from Chungthang, two
marches below Thanggu. Incidentally, it may be mentioned that the
Indian Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, in their proposal
to establish a High Altitude Research Station, had this place in view.
There may also be a station at Chhangu (ca. 13,000 ft.) in East Sikkim
(see map), on the main Indo-Tibetan Trade Route (one of the Indian
National Highways), about two days’ march from Gangtok, but which
may now be reached by jeep. Gangtok itself is connected with the
railhead at Siliguri, some seventy miles away, by a regular bus service.
Both Thanggu and Chhangu offer reasonable access to glaciers, lakes
and scrub forests at fairly high altitudes without demanding special
mountaineering skill or imposing undue hazards. Accommodation and
catering at both these places are, however, difficult. The State Rest
Houses there are small and unsuitable for permanent laboratory pur-
poses. Suitable accommodation for laboratory and residential purposes
would have to be built when the institute is set up. Food supplies may
be easily arranged from Gangtok.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
A draft manuscript of this article was read by Shri Salim Ali of
the Bombay Natural History Society, Dr. J. L. Bhaduri of the Calcutta
University Zoological Department, and Dr. K. K. Tiwari and the late
Dr. S. L. Hora of the Zoological Survey of India. I am grateful to
them for their criticism and advice.
380 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
REFERENCES
Biswas, B. (1955): Zoological results of the ‘Daily Mail’ Himalayan Expedition
1954. Two new birds from Khumbu, eastern Nepal. Bull. Brit. orn. Cl. 15: 87-38.
— — and Khajuria, H. (194): Zoological results of the ‘Daily Mail’ Himalayan
Expedition 1954. Tour new mammals from Khumbu, eastern Nepal. Proc. zooi.
Soc., 8: 25-390.
Champion, H. G. (1936): A preliminary survey of the forest types of India and
Burma. Indian For. Rec. (n.s.), Silviculture, 1: 1-286.
Clarke, G. L. (1954): Elements of Ecology. John Wiley & Sons Inc., New York.
Griggs, R. F. (1946): The timberlines of northern America and their interpreta-
tions. Ecology, 27: 275-289.
Izzard, R. (1955): The Abominable Snowman Adventure. Hodder & Stoughton,
London.
Korff, S. A. (1954): The World’s High Altitude Research Stations. New York
Univ. Press, New York.
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BIRD, PLOCEUS
PHILIPPINUS LINN.
BY
SAtiIm ALI AND VIJAYKUMAR C. AMBEDKAR
(With a plate)
INTRODUCTION
During the past three breeding seasons of the Baya (June/July to
September/October 1953-1955), we have kept several nest colonies
under fairly close observation and study in the environs of Poona City
(Bombay State). The present is merely an interim report of some of
our findings, and is published in the hope that other bird students with
suitable opportunities for observation and experiment may be enabled
to contribute to the meagre knowledge we possess concerning the life
history of this common and interesting bird, and allied species of Indian
Ploceinae. The field work has been carried out chiefly by V.C.A., a
resident of Poona, under the advice and direction, and with the
intermittent participation of the senior author.
A broad outline of the breeding biology of the Baya was originally
published by Salim Ali in 1931 (/BNHS, 84: 947-64). A large amount
of confirmatory evidence has accumulated since, and it now seems
reasonable to consider the basic pattern as established. However,
many fundamental facts regarding the life and movements of the Baya
in the non-breeding season, and precise statistical data relating to its
nesting behaviour were, and still are, completely lacking, and the
object of our investigations has been to collect as much further detailed
information as practicable.
One of our major handicaps so far has been the impossibility of
studying the same colony uninterruptedly from the commencement of
the breeding season right through to the end. The most populous
and easily controlled colonies in the Poona area are usually those built
around irrigation wells situated within the various ‘wadis’ or market
gardens. Owing to the damage bayas do to the surrounding bajra
and jowar crops, the farmers are in the habit of pulling down ail
accessible nests from time to time. These holocausts usually take
place just when a colony is at the peak of activity, namely when the
majority of the eggs have hatched. It is disconcerting to find one’s
observations suddenly broken off thus, often at the most crucial stage.
We have been compelled, on this account, to divide our attention
between several widely scattered colonies, and to piece together bits
of data collected as opportunity offered. |
Another difficulty which has seriously hampered our work and
prevented the procurement of unequivocal data concerning individual
birds in a breeding colony is the want of a workmanlike technique for
marking nesting bayas without catching them and thereby possibly
upsetting their normal behaviour patterns. Yet for statistical precision
882 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
it is obviously essential that individual birds in a colony, at least
the control ones, should be unmistakably identifiable.
Squirting liquid dyes on to the bird with a water pistol was un-
successful, since the jet, apart from being too thick and conspicuous,
was not of sufficient velocity to reach the bird before it could move
away. Latterly we have used a large hypodermic syringe, such as
is employed for inoculating cattle, which, discharged from within an
observation hide at the range of a few feet, has given better promise.
The jet is finer and more powerful, carries a longer distance without
spreading out too much, and its trajectory can be controlled. The
larger capacity of the barrel enables the aim to be corrected while the
jet is in action, without alarming the bird unduly.
In squirting liquid dyes the object is to mark a bird while it is
clinging to its nest, so that both bird and nest get sprayed simultane-
ously, making them thereafter readily recognizable as belonging to
each other: It is only by marking in this manner that the social
behaviour and inter-relationships of individuals within a colony can
be satisfactorily studied. ‘The aniline dyes used in the 1954-55 experi-
ments were crimson, green, yellow and blue. We are grateful to the
German dye manufacturing firm of Cheka Ltd. of Bombay, for their
interest in the problem, and for their valuable advice and generous
co-operation.
Marking Bayas.
During the breeding season, when recognition of individuals within
a colony is of the utmost consequence, it is not easy to devise a
technique that will enable catching of the birds at the colony without
disturbing their normal behaviour and rhythm. For males, the only
feasible method seems to be to spray them with quick-drying liquid
dyes, fast to rain and sun, which will identify them at least until the
post-nuptial moult; therefore, throughout one complete nesting season.
But it is also desirable that the males should be marked in some more
permanent manner so that their migratory local movements and their
inter-flock behaviour during the off season, and their colony-forming
and sexual activities on the approach of the next breeding season
can be properly studied. For catching the males at a colony for
ringing, we have as yet found no practicable method.
However, accidentally we hit upon a successful method of catching
nesting females for marking with dyes as well as with coloured and
aluminium rings. While incubating, and for the first 6 days or so
after the eggs hatch, the female sleeps in the nest at night. The
slightest jerk to the nest after dark causes her to slip down the
entrance tube and make off in a flash. We found that a butterfly net
held quietly over the mouth of the tube, before the nest is touched,
secures the escaping female without difficulty. In the same way it
it possible to secure, during daytime, full-fledged young that try to
escape from the nest prematurely on its being handled.
How and why a particular tree, or group of trees, is initially
selected from amongst others which to all appearances are equally
suitable, is a moot point. Once a nest colony has been established,
however, there is no doubt that the old nests, or their battered
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BIRD 383
remnants, serve to attract the birds in successive seasons. We know
colony sites that have been in yearly occupation for at least 3o years,
and they doubtless continue longer under the requisite conditions.
Even after the periodical wholesale destruction of the colonies by
the local farmers, the birds resort to their traditional nesting sites
year after year. Whether, and to what extent, the members of one
particular colony return to the same spot in successive years, and to
what extent, if at all, the young return to their birthplace for nesting,
in what manner and on what pattern dispersal of the young occurs,
whether some males and some females (or all females?) breed in their
first year, and the factors that alter the sex ratio by the time the
birds become adult, are some of the points which challenge investi-
gation. 3
One striking feature about the colonies is the definite limit to which
an individual colony seems capable of expanding. The number of nests
in a colony remains more or less constant from year to year so that
there is apparently some factor or factors that govern annual fluctua-
tion of numbers, and also control expansion above an optimal upper
limit. That some colonies are larger than others is, as far as can be
observed, not due to progressive annual growth: thus a colony con-
taining, say, 60 completed nests will hold approximately the same
number year after year. Small colonies are more apt to be abandoned
(i.e., they are of a more ‘shifting’ nature) than large, old-established
ones which presumably began as large colonies in the first instance.
From the data collected it appears that, although a few isolated
females become physiologically mature and begin laying in some of
the earliest nests, the majority of females arrive much later, at all the
scattered colonies in the area more or less simultaneously, in search of
eligible nests. They come, as it were, in a great wave or irruption,
all in a matter of a couple of days. The exact period of such irrup-
tion, in a normal monsoon, is between the latter part of July and
the third week of August, as soon as the weather breaks after several
days of heavy and continuous downpour. During such wet spells
there is a lull in the building operations of the males, to be followed
by a spurt of intense activity immediately drier weather intervenes.
Accompanying these feverish building activities is a good deal of
excited flapping and fluttering of wings, and loud lively choruses which
can be heard over enormous distances in the countryside, and which
no doubt serve to orientate the prospecting females. Thus the larger
colonies, by virtue of their louder vocal advertising, have an advantage
over the smaller and less noisy ones. It would, therefore, be of
advantage for smaller colonies to be built close to large ones, and
this, in fact, is very often the case.
The arrival of sexually mature females en masse ensures the virtual
synchronization of laying and hatching. The chicks also leave the nests
more or less simultaneously—perhaps within the span of a week or
so. The colony, thereafter, becomes silent and deserted except for an
odd belated nest or two in which the females alone continue to feed
the young. These foraging females are now very shy and circumspect,
usually flying up rather surreptitiously straight into the nest, and away,
384 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
with no tell-tale loitering. The change in their behaviour is due, no
doubt, to the removal of the collective vigilance of the colony.
Apparently the flock instinct is so strong that in a few nests in
almost every large colony one may actually find an entire clutch of
partly incubated eggs, or even a mummified brood of nestlings which
have been abandoned to their fate by the parents in their hurry to
leave the colony with the rest of the birds. The frequency with
which such abandoned nests are found at the tail end of the season,
particularly in the larger colonies, leaves little doubt as to the circum-
stances.
The peak period of the nesting activities synchronizes with the pro-
gressive ripening of the adjacent jowari crops upon which the adults
and freshly launched young so largely subsist, and to which they cause
such considerable damage.
In the earlier stages of a colony, before the main body of prospect-
ing females arrives (‘pre-irruption’ period) there is naturally much
greater competition and rivalry among the individual males for winning
the few hens that are ready to nest. The felonious practice of cutting
down the nests of rival cocks, while the owner has gone to fetch
building material, is much more in evidence during the earlier stages
of nesting than after most males have secured mates and are occupied
in further building. Whether the early breeding females are double
brooded, i.e., whether they raise a second family during the same
season, remains to be shown.
Eggs are laid at 24-hour intervals, in the early morning. Incuba-
tion apparently starts from the second egg, and takes 14-15 days.
Full-fledged young leave the nest 13-14 days after hatching. The
female occasionally feeds them outside at first, but they mostly fend
for themselves.
Siemon RuaatoinO;
The sex ratio of adults in the colonies is found to be invariably 2
females (occasionally 3) to 1 male. This has been ascertained by
repeated counts and rechecking of completed, occupied nests, and of
the working males.
A normal brood in the Poona area consists of 3 or 4 young. It
is desirable, therefore, to determine whether this disparity in the sexes
is present from the time of hatching, or comes about at a later stage
possibly due to some mortahty factor selective against the males. We
hope to devote special attention to this problem during the 1956 season.
Abnormal Nests:
Abnormality in the structure of baya nests takes a variety of forms.
The commonest and most frequent one is the double or ‘tandem’ which
consists of one nest suspended from the end of the entrance tube of
a completed upper nest. Occasionally it may be a 3-storeyed affair
with the middle nest in different stages of completion. Two adjacent
nests are sometimes conjoined exteriorly by a woven fabric, and in
other ways. Some types of abnormal nests are shown in the plate.
In all examples of double or triple nests, we found only a single
chamber—the last built—to be in current use, the others being blocked
dJourn., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc,
|
|
|
|
|
|
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i
i
| i
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\
anne? \
See
Figs. 1, 4, 5. Abnormal baya nests.
Figs. 2, 3. Experimental mutilations.
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BIRD 385
ap and unoccupied. In most cases, however, the lowest nest remained
unfinished. We have found no suggestion that such multiple nests
were ever intended for contemporaneous habitation, e.g., by a ‘harem’,
or that it may be an experiment in ‘apartment housing’—the rudiment-
ary beginnings of a composite community-nest as in the Sociable
Weaver (Philetairus socius) of Africa.
In all the closed-up and sealed-off chambers of the multiple nests
examined by us, there has invariably been evidence of some disaster
to the contents. Such evidence usually consisted of dried matted yolk.
or cracked eggs—the result of some accident or felony(?). In one case
a desiccated chick, perhaps 5 days old, was found partially but deli-
berately buried (woven over) in the fabric of the lining of the egg
chamber, as the damaged contents usually are.
It seems obvious that the hyperstructures to a normal nest are
added by the original builder himself. But whether the second
chamber, if occupied, is by the original female or a_ different
one, needs to be determined. When two completed, occupied nests
hanging side by side are conjoined into one unit, it is definite proof
that they both belong to one and the same individual, since no cock
baya will tolerate a neighbour or stranger tampering with his property.
As a result of our observations it can unreservedly be stated that
W. Jesse’s account (Ibis 1897, p. 558) of a 7-storeyed nest 1s inaccurate,
especially in regard to the storeys being added year after year. The
last 3 chambers in this nest are said to have contained 3, 3 and 2 eggs
respectively. If this is to suggest that these chambers were in con-
temporaneous occupation by 3 different females — e.g., in the nature
of an apartment house or a ‘block of flats’ — then the statement is open
to serious doubt. Baya nests are strictly annual structures; they are
built afresh each season, the remnants of the previous year’s nests
being torn down to make room for the new ones. We have not found
any evidence that the same nest is ever used in a second season.
V.C.A. recorded one double-storeyed nest in which the sealed-off
upper chamber contained 4 fresh and apparently undamaged eggs, while
the lower chamber was at the early ‘pre-bell’ or ‘helmet’ stage. Ia
this case it is conceivable that the female concerned had, for some
reason, deserted the nest (maybe killed?). And since cock bayas
do not incubate, the owner commenced adding the lower nest in order
to attract another hen. When the eggs in a nest get accidentally
broken the hen naturally deserts the nest, whereupon the male seats
it off and often adds a lower chamber. In the above case, since the
eges were undamaged, the female may have failed to turn up for a
different reason.
(mt ellie ome,
In earlier field work, in order to inspect the contents of controlled
nests in a colony, S.A. had cut a vertical incision in the woven fabric
opposite the egg chamber. On visiting the colony again on the
following day he had observed the incision to be neatly darned with
fresh green strips of grass, producing the appearance of a zip fastener.
Repairing such incisions in this clever manner is so foreign to what
the bird would ever be called upon to deal with under natural condi-
tions, that the behaviour suggested something higher than a purely
386 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
instinctive reflex. At the suggestion of Prof. Bernhard Rensch of
Minster we therefore planned a series of experiments to test the extent
of the baya’s capacity to deal with unaccustomed and unnatural situa-
tions. Windows of various shapes and sizes—round, oval, square,
rectangular, triangular etc.—between 1 and 2 inches across, were
cleanly cut out with a pair of scissors in the walls opposite the egg
chamber of selected nests. Only nests containing chicks were used
for these experiments. in order to minimize possible desertions. ‘The
windows were usually cut in the forenoon while the female was away
foraging. On return with food for the young, the usual reaction of.
the hen to this sudden transformation in her abode was, curiously
enough, one that can only be described as indifference; there was
certainly no perturbation on her part, though sometimes she did seem)
mildly puzzled.
In one instance the hen flew up the entrance tube of her nest,
as usual, and fed the chicks apparently before she realized that there
was anything amiss. After feeding, she poked her head out of the
newly erupted window, looked surprisedly this way and that, and
actually made her exit through the opening. She clung to the nest
above the window, head downward, peering within through the opening
repeatedly, and ‘nibbling’ at the jagged edges. The bird then flew
off but returned 5 minutes later, again clung outside the nest, peered
into it repeatedly, and tugged undecidedly at the loose ends. She then
hopped across to a neighbouring half-built nest, but made no attempt
to pull out any strips from it for the repair; she then hopped back
on to her own nest behaving in the earlier inane fashion for another
5 minutes or so. She flew off once more and returned 20 minutes
later with a soft white contour feather of some bird in her bill.
Employing the same technique as she would in lining the egg chamber,
she attempted ineffectively to block the hole by pressing the feather
on the jagged rim. After this token repair the bird flew off. She
returned ro minutes later with food for the chicks. Instead of flying
up the entrance tube, she now clung to the outside of the nest and,
in quite a matter-of-fact manner, passed the food to the chicks through
the window, like a flowerpecker !
Thereafter she removed the feather from where it had been pressed
in, and tried refixing it at several different points. It was quite obvious
that not being familiar with the weaving technique she was completely
at a loss about how to set about repairing the damage.
During all this interval the cock was nowhere to be seen. One cock,
perched on a bush 3 ft. away, seemed completely unconcerned and
presumably was not the owner of this nest.
In the above case, as in the many others experimented with, the
damage was found fully repaired when the nest was visited again about
g o’clock next morning, although usually by sundown the previous
evening there had been no sign of activity from the cocks in this
regard.
In a second nest, containing 3 well-grown young, a triangular
window was cut with 14” base and 24” sides (fig. 2). When revisited
at 10 next morning there was a flimsy woven criss-cross triangular mat
of green grass strips covering the hole, fixed to the nest along two sides
a
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BIRD 387
of the triangular window, but loosely flapping along the third
side. The mat looked as though it had been prepared separately and
then fixed in situ! The repair was uncompleted.
Square, rectangular and oblong windows were ail darned over with
equal speed and skill, suggesting a degree of true intelligence quite
above what is ordinarily conceded to the average bird.
In one nest the entire entrance tube was snipped off from its base,
at the level of the egg-chamber. By 10 o’clock the following morn-
ing, 3 inches of the tube, in the form of a collar, had been rebuilt
with fresh green grass strips. All fresh repairs stand out prominently,
even at a distance, by contrast with the yellowish brown colour the
nest has acquired after many days of exposure to the sun.
The cleverest repair, in our opinion, was where the entrance tube
had been transversely bisected or slit all along its length leaving
merely a vertical channel on one side (fig. 3). By next morning the
mutilation had been repaired by the addition of the complementary
half channel, thus restoring the original circular tube. The speed and
neatness with which this intricate repair was executed, and the
precision with which the new half was curved and channelled were
quite remarkable.
All repairs, in every case, were made entirely by the cocks who
normally started serious work on them soon after daybreak on the
following morning. On one or two occasions we found a few strips
of the darning already in position the same evening before the males
left for their nightly roosts.
In one case the hen flew up the tube with food for the chicks as
usual, but promptly went out through the round window again, flying
up the tube a second time and repeating the window exit, as if trying
to believe her eyes! But later, through the rest of that afternoon,
she freely used the window for her exits after feeding the young.
The cock, who was actively employed on a second nest near-by which
a second hen was prospecting, paid no attention to repairing thie
damage despite the fact that from time to time he alighted on the
mutilated nest and had obviously realized that repair was necessary.
By noon on the following day, however, he had completely repaired
the hole. To observe further reaction, this repaired patch was excised
a second time leaving the round open window as before. The cock
visited the nest several times thereafter, but did not commence repair
work till 75 minutes later, bringing fresh green grass strips as his
darning thread. The repair work was fitful since the cock’s attention
was diverted by the new hen of his second nest whose frequent
comings and goings caused him to leave off and give amorous chase.
It was clear that just then he was more concerned about the new
hen than about repairing his damaged first nest. In spite of the inter-
ruptions, however, the repair was fully completed in 2 hours after
commencement.
V.C.A. has recorded that when he excised the newly repaired patch
he left the round wad of woven strips lying on the ground below
the nest. He was surprised to see that, after completing the repair
the second time, the cock picked up this wad and attempted to utilize
it as such on the second nest which was as yet unfinished. He tried
to fix the wad into this place and that, but finally jettisoned it!
388 | JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Next morning, the entire entrance tube —7” in length— of this twice-
repaired nest was amputated, exposing the ‘cross-bar’ which forms
the rim of the egg chamber in the completed nest. The visiting hen
was completely unperturbed by this sudden and unexpected transforma-
tion in her dwelling and showed no hesitation in flying up to the nest,
settling on the now-exposed cross bar, and feeding the young. She
thereafter flew off with the chicks’ excreta in her bill as usual. The maie
looked more surprised. He accompanied the hen to the nest 3 times
when she brought food, and then visited it by himself several times.
He sat about on the nest, and laconically examined the damage, once
tapping on the portion he had repaired the previous day. The first
fresh material for replacement of the tube was brought 30 minutes
after the amputation. Work was slow and frequently interrupted, as
yesterday, by the claims of the second nest and female. Seven hours
after the repair work commenced, a firm foundation of the new tube
had been laid, and a fresh green coilar 13” broad marked its progress.
This collar had broadened to 24” when the nest was visited the follow-
ing afternoon, and no further extension of the tube was made there-
after.
Between the third day after hatching and the fifth, while the cock
was busy with the repairs, he had remained indifferent to the begging
of the young for food each time he arrived at the nest, and had gone
right ahead with the work in hand. He fed the young for the first
time when they were 6-7 days, and only after he had finished his second
nest and completed repairing the first. Once started, he continued
to feed the chicks’ regularly thereafter, and even more assiduously
than the hen, e.g:, 6 times m 24 minutes as against the hen’s once.
From the sixth night after hatching, it was observed that the hen did
not sleep in the nest with the 3 well-grown young, presumably owiny
to pressure of space. -
When a large hole was cut once again in the same much-repaired
nest after the young were 6 days old and the male had commenced
feeding them, he paid no attention to repairing the damage any more,
and even made a convenience of it, for feeding the young through the
‘opening and for his entries and exits. One full-fledged young leit
this nest on the 13th day; the other 2 on the 14th day after hatching.
Enemies and Mortality.
On one occasion V.C.A. found a brood of naked young of the
Long-tailed Tree Mouse (Vendeluria oleracea), together with a parent,
within the upper storey of a double nest. A passage had been bored
through the ceiling of the lower half-built (‘bell’) nest for entering
the tube leading to the upper chamber. One of these mice was found
in another nest also. This nest was empty then, though when examined
a few days earlier it had contained baya eggs. The nest was later
taken possession of by a pair of Whitethroated Munia (Uroloncha
malabarica) and in time held 6 eggs. When inspected again the next
day the eggs had vanished and. in their place was their presumptive
despoiler. Circumstantial evidence suggests, therefore, that this mouse
may be responsible for some of the mortality among bayas in the
Poona area. }
NOTES ON THE BAYA WEAVER BIRD 389
On 20 September, 1.e., near the close of the nesting season, when
most colonies in the Poona area held young of various ages, one fairly
populous colony was found to have most of its nests bored with
circular holes of ca. 1” diameter opposite the egg chamber (above the
base of the entrance tube). The contents had been rifled. The predator
was undetermined, but from the presence of a halo-like depression
around the holes, it was evident that the culprit was some large bird
like a crow or coucal whose breast had dented the fabric while it
forced its head through the holes to reach the contents.
But the heaviest mortality certainly results from the widely pre-
valent practice of farmers of pulling down baya nests en masse and
thus devastating entire colonies at the time when they contain helpiess
young or hard-set eggs. These pogroms take place when the season
is well advanced so that there is no possibility of a second brood.
Entire colonies are wiped out, the nests being torn down and the
nestlings often left to starve to death. Many flightless fledglings wander
away from the ravished nests, hopping on the ground or clambering
amongst the undergrowth, and soon fall a prey to mongooses, cats,
crows and other predators.
Under the circumstances only isolated nests or small colonies high
up in trees and out of easy reach have a chance of survival. Crowded
colonies scattered amongst the fields, in and around irrigation wells,
are especially vulnerable. There is no denying that bayas are highly
destructive to ripening jowar and bajra crops, and were it not for this
ruthless control by humans, the species could possibly become a major
pest of local agriculture as some of its close relations in Africa are
known to be. int eee
SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE TROUT FARM AND
HATCHERY AT ACHHABAL, KASHMIR
BY
SUNDER LAL HoRA (DECEASED)
The Trout Farm and Hatchery at Achhabal were started in
1906-1907 and adjoin the Mogul Gardens. They are thus a. great
attraction for thousands of visitors and tourists. Unlike two other
trout farms and hatcheries at Harwan and Laribal, the water supply
at Achhabal is from a flowing spring directly to the farm without
any protective works. No precaution is thus taken to prevent trash
and debris from being carried into the water supply line. Though
normally the water is only slightly turbid, at times it becomes muddy
also. The observations recorded here were made during two short
stays at the farm during June 1954 and July 1955. I am grateful to
the authorities for supplying the data and to Mr. G. M. Malik, Director,
Fish Preservation Department, Jammu and Kashmir State, for going
through the article and offering comments.
STOCK POSITION
Both Rainbow and Brown trout are kept at the farm of sizes
varying from 2 oz. to 5 lbs. The stock position during the last six
years was as follows:
Year 1949-50 1950-51 1951-52 1952-53 1953-54 © 1954-55
Rainbow 485 585 509 442 393 419
Brown 2,552 2,520 SYA PDI 1,958 1,907
Total 3,037 3,105 2,761 2,669 2,356 2 SG)
The quantities of trout sold from this hatchery for the same period
are given below:
1950-51 1951-52. 1952-53
Ween 1949-50 1955-54 1954-55
Rainbow ae 4 5 10 3 5 14
Brown ; 94 161 165 202 109 119
Otel ees 98 166 175 205 114 133
Year 1949-50 1950-51 1951-52 1952-53 1953-54 1954-55
Weight 484 lb. 795 lb. 844 Ib. 836 lb. 415 lb. 487 lb.
14 oz. 9 oz. 8 oz. NZ @Ao 7 OZ. 4 oz.
Amount Rs. 749-7-3 1,278-3-3 1,302-4-3 1,521-8-0 964-14-6 1,507-8-0
realised,
THE TROUT FARM AND HATCHERY AT ACHHABAL 391
The quantity of diseased fish of different sizes that had.to be
destroyed during the same period was as follows:
Year 1949-50 1950-51 1951-52 1952-53 1953-54 1954-55
Rainbow Ae: 53 94. 67 64 59 72
Brown eee 294 171 272 223 188 179
ARO tales 347 265 339 287 247 251
Calculating the mortality figures against the stocks in the corres-
ponding years we get the following percentage of mortality for each
kind:
Year 1949-50 1950-51 1951-52 1952-53 1953-54 1954-55
Rainbow ~ nee 11.0 16.0 13.1 14.5 1.0 WB)
Brown crs. acai 6.7 12.0 10.0 9.6 9.4
It will be seen from the above statement that the rate of mortality
is generally higher in the.case of Rainbow than that of Brown trout.
Besides the sale of trout, which .is insignificant, the main function
of this hatchery seems to be the stocking of trout streams with eyed
ova and fingerlings. The figures in this respect for the last 6 years
are as follows:
Year 1049250) 1950-51 1951-52. 1952-53 1953-54 1954-55
‘Eyed Ova ... 1,50.0°0 1,50,000 1,50,000 1,00,000 2,50,/0) 1,95,090
Fingerlings ... Bae 3,310 1,328 4,177 2,340 3,500
In 1954-55, a total number of 481,000 eggs were obtained. Of
this number, 247,000 became ‘eyed’, while the others had to be thrown
away, thus showing a survival 51.3%. This survival rate seems to
be good when it is learned that old antiquated hatchery methods are
followed. The eggs once laid in trays are not touched and even the
dead eggs are not picked and eS: out, thus allowing fungus to
take a full toll of the healthy egg
In 1954-55, 72,000 eyed ova were retained in the hatchery for
cultural purposes and the fingerlings developed out of them will be
counted at the time of next breeding season.
DISEASES AND OTHER CAUSES OF MORTALITY
In 1939, Malik? reported on an epidemic among Rainbow trout in
the Harwan Hatchery during 1934 and also made some observations
on certain other cases of mortality in that hatchery. He attributed
a ce ES FE TY
2 Mr. G. M. Malik informs me that ‘In Kashmir daily removal of dead eggs
before eyeing used to cause more loss than removal of dead eggs after eyeing.
The practice therefore continues and no dead eggs are removed till the eyes appear
‘when the ova can withstand disturbance or shocks’.
---.* Mr, G. M. Malik informs me that the records of diseases should be taken
with caution as they are kept by semi-literate persons without making any post-
mortem examination of the dead specimens.
6
3592 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the epidemic to lipoid and fatty degeneration of the liver through
feeding the fish on fatty fresh-fish diet. He observed!:
‘Normally the disease would have never occurred in the form of
an epidemic but it was accentuated owing to unfavourable conditions
that prevailed for several months preceding the epidemic. These were
—shortage of water, insanitary conditions of the pens and over-crowding
that resulted in abrasions, and subsequent attack by fungus. Ine
malady was further aggravated by the breeding season when the
vitality of the fish is naturally reduced as the epidemic was noticed
just at the close of the breeding season.’
Of the 251 fishes that died in the Achhabal Farm during 1954-55,
the following is the analysis of the causes of death as recorded in the
Mortality Register by the Jamadar of the hatchery:
Fungus (white patches) ae soo ke
Lipoid degeneration of the liver Bagr e nee
Blindness Pie ee 17
Injuries through otters Sao Bigg
Spawn-bound Seo 00 506 9
Muddy water S00 ooo 3dé 4
Fin rot : 3
It will be worthwhile to examine the causes of these diseases against
the layout of the Farm and the cultural practices that are followed.
Fungus Infection: Though all freshwater fishes of vari-
ous ages are liable to be attacked by the fungi or water-moulds
(Saprolegniaceae), it is doubtful whether the fungus is the primary cause
of the trouble. The fungus attacks only when it can obtain a foothold
on an injured part of a fish—physical injury or that caused by external
parasite. Susceptibility to infection is greatly increased if the fishes
are suffering from general debility or are living under untavourable
conditions. Eggs are also subject to attack by the fungus and in most
hatcheries the heaviest losses are in the egg stage.
The heaviest loss of adult fish occurs after stripping, in the months
of December and January. In tank No. 19, where males and females
of Brown Trout are kept for stripping, 17 males and 1o females died
from fungus infection. The loss to the hatchery through stripping
operations was about 200 lb. of trout from various tanks. In the
handling of fish incidental to stripping, it is almost impossible to
avoid injuring some of the fish slightly. As at the spawning season
the vitality of the fish is usually lower, they are especially susceptible
to infection by the fungus. According to Davis (1953, p. 279), ‘fungus
infection can often be prevented from developing in spawned fish by
dipping them in a 1:15,000 solution of malachite green, or in a 3 per
cent salt solution after they have been stripped.’ They should be kept
in the solution until they show signs of distress. _
After stripping, the practice at this hatchery is to return the fish
to the same tank which is usually crowded with other fish. I wouid
suggest that they should be put in a special tank where greater care
could be taken of them for a few days uritil they regain strength and
i
’ Malik, G. M., Journ. Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc., 44; (2) 397-408, 1939.
THE TROUT FARM AND HATCHERY AT ACHHABAL 393
vigour. Sometimes fish, particularly Rainbow Trout, bite off portions
of caudal fin of other fishes and the injury thus produced gives a foot-
hold to the fungus.
At other periods also fungus infection accounts for a large number
of deaths mostly among the yearlings, but the bigger fish are not
immune from it. If the infection is detected in the early stages of the
disease, one such treatment as indicated above is usually effective, but
if the fungus is well established, even several successive treatments
may not etiect a cure. It is, therefore, most essential to prevent the
development of disease. |
I have already referred above to a loss of nearly 44% of ova,
probably through the fungus infection, and suggested that dead ova
should be picked out and removed as soon as detected. For still
better results reference may be made to Davis (1953, pp. 280-281).
Lipoid DSSSeMmSrAtnOm Cul Wins Inigo Ghecries
is caused by malnutrition resulting from overfeeding or the use of un-
suitable diets. At the Achhabal Hatchery fishes of over a pound in
weight are fed on small pieces of country fish freshly collected each
day from certain reserve streams. Few fishes of over a pound in
weight die from this disease during the months May-June to Augusi-
September. During these months three Schizothoracine fishes, Khout
(Oreinus plagiostomus), Zoobo and Kontgad or Choozge (Schizothorax
spp.), run up the streams for breeding and are full of mature gonads.
It is known that roe of these fish cause intestinal trouble in man
(Annandale 1920, Rec. Ind. Mus., xviii, p. 192). It is likely that
some fish overfeed during that period and suffer from lipoid degenera-
tion of the liver.
Some yearlings fed on dry meals, consisting of silkworm pupae
and fish, have also suffered from this disease. These meals are con-
centrated fatty food and there are, therefore, more chances of getting
a fatty liver when oa this diet. :
On the first appearance of the disease, it is better to isolate the
fish and control its feeding till it fully recovers. Unfortunately, there
is no serviceable isolation tank in the hatchery at present so it would
seem difficult to save such fishes from death.
Blindness: Out of 17 cases, 8 occurred during August-
September and most of the diseased fish were taken out from tank
No. 12. I have found a large number of the Lymnaea snails in the
hatchery tanks and have therefore presumed that the blindness may
have been caused by the Eye Fluke (Strigeidae). The metacercariae
of this fluke occur only in the lens of the eye and when abundant
cause it to become white and opaque, so that the fish becomes partially
or totally blind. For the control of this disease, the best thing will
_be to eliminate snails from the pond by first draining the pond, removing
plants, and then the sides and bottom should be thoroughly cleaned
and chlorinated to kiil the hiding snails.
Depradation by Otters: Otters entered tank No. 16
from the spring side one night during October-November and injured
several fish of which 14 died on subsequent days. On an inspection of
394 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the site it seems a proper fencing of the farm on the spring side may
prevent such losses in future years.
Spawn-bound: Some female fish are unable to liberate their
eggs and therefore die spawn-bound. ‘There seems to be no remedy
for it. Mr. G. M. Malik is of the opinion that spawn-bound conditioa
is associated with high calcium content of the water, high temperature
and accumulation of fat in the viscera.
Muddy Weater: — Rhough onlya4y cases) of mdeatheatanoucnh
muddy water have been registered, I am informed heavy mortality
among fry, which are kept separately from the main stock, occurs
as a result of the muddy water. The tank bottoms get covered with
silt and these are cleaned only once a year. It will greatly improve the
sanitation of the farm if a settling tank could be put up at the head
of the stream feeding the farm and hatchery channels*. It may also
help to check the fungus and liver diseases.
Fin Rot: This isa bacterial infection which usually first appears
in the dorsal fin but may occasionally start in the caudal fin. it is
noticeable as a distinct white line along the outer margin of the fin
and then moves inwards and destroys the whole fin. This can be
controlled by dipping the fish for one or two minutes in a 1:2,000
solution of copper sulphate. This is good treatment in the early stages
of the disease. Several treatments at intervals of 24 hours are required
before the spread of the disease can be effectively checked. If the
fish is in an advanced stage of infection, it should be taken out and
destroyed to save other fishes from getting infected.
Foop AND GROWTH
Up to a weight of 12 oz., the trout are fed on dried silkworm
pupae and fish powdered to various grades of fineness for feeding young
of different sizes. In Tank No. 12, 138 fish of 12 oz, to 14 |b. are
kept on a mixed diet of silkworm pupae and small pieces of fresh
country fish about a seer in weight. In Tank No. 15, 182 fish of
12 oz. to 14 lb. are fed on fresh fish about 14 seers in weight once
a day. In-Tank No. 16, 176 fish of 14 oz. to 1% lb. in weight are
given about 2 seers of fish. In Tank No. 17, 210 fish of 13 lb. to
24 lb. are given 4 seers of country fish. Seventy-six fish in Tank
No. 18 of 3 to 6 lb. in weight are given 4 seers of country fish, while
198 fish of 2 to 3 lb. in Tank No. 19 are given 5 seers. In’ Mank®
No. 20, 64 fish of 2 to 3 lb. are given 2 seers of country fish while
8 trout of 2% to 34 lb. in Tank No. 20B are given half a seer.
These figures are all approximate as the person who feeds the fish
takes handfuls of chopped country fish from a bucket when feeding’
fish in each tank. The amount thrown in each tank cannot be accurate
and it cannot be stated whether or not each fish had a feed.
pent en eternennnngeeeee tan smeenanenn aeeenennceennendrnte imap pe armel a ey ene Ste ty ne RE RR te
1 Mr.°G. M. Malik informs me that ‘Plans for setting up a filtration system
have already been approved and it is hoped that sedimentation troughs for hatcheries
will be constructed next year’.
THE TROUT FARM AND HATCHERY AT ACHHABAL. 395
Three or two fishermen, according to seasons of scarcity or abundance
of country fish in the reserve streams, are employed for catching
local fish and naturally the quantity procured by them varies from
day to day. Accordingly the ration of food given to fishes also varies.
From the data collected by me for some other investigation, it appears
that approximately 16 seers of country fish is brought to the hatchery
daily by three fishermen from the middle of June to the middle of
November, thus the ration for each tank given above is reduced to
4/5 for these months. From the middle of November to the end of
March, only 2 fishermen are employed but they bring in an average
of 22 seers every day. From the first of April, a third fisherman is
employed and the quantity brought in increases to 26 seers on an
average up to middle of May. ;
This system of feeding has one obvious defect. During the summer
months when the fish are generally more active, the supply of food
is less. When the food supply increases in winter, the fish are not
so active and overfeeding may result in the lipoid degeneration of liver,
It: will be seen from the above that heaviest mortality occurs among’
the adult fish in December and January from fungus infection after
stripping and this reduces tine stock to be fed when the SUEY) iS
abundant.
From what is stated above, it would seem highly desirable that
the system of feeding should be rationalised for the health and proper
growth of the fish. During winter months when Rapat, Labeo
diplostomus (Heckel), is plentiful even in farm and hatchery streams,
efforts should be made to collect large quantities and dry them up in
a small drier to be used during the months of scarcity of food. This
proposal involves only a small outlay but ensures equitable food supply
throughout the year.
Feeding of trout with fish of the coarser and cheaper prades has
certain disadvantages as pointed out by Davis! (p. 77). He says:
‘Fresh fish of the coarser and cheaper grades have been used rather
extensively for trout foods, but the results have not been entirely
satisfactory. It usually requires about twice as much fish as meat to
produce an equal growth. . . As already pointed out, the use
of fish in trout diets frequently results in a vitamin B, deficiency,
which may have disastrous results. If this is guarded against, fish
may be safely included in the diet. In general, however, it is believed
that the percentage of fish should not be higher than 20 to 25 per cent.’
The deficiency of thiamin, source of vitamin B,, results from fish
diet for there is some substance in the tissues of the fish which destroys
vitamin B, on contact (Davis, p. 73). Loss of balance results from
this disease at first occasionally but in course of time it develops
into a complete inability to maintain a normal position, although the
fish may live for weeks in this condition. To correct B, deficiency,
wheat products, such as middlings, and livers are the best sources of
thiamin. The plant meals are also stated to be fair sources of this
vitamin.
* Davis, H. S., 1953—Culture and Diseases of Game Fishes, University of
California Press, Berkeley and Los Angeles.
396 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
__ Up to 3 years, the growth of trout is stated to be very slow, for
during this period it only attains a weight of 14 oz. to 1 lb. After
the third year, the growth may be a pound a year, for a 5 year fish
may be 3 |b. in weight. How far this growth rate is associated with
food supplied to the fish below 12 to 14 oz. and to those over a
pound is difficult for me to say, but it is evident that a pound of trout
costs several times more to the Government than the so-called exorbi-
tant price of Rs. 3 per pound at which it is sold from the hatcheries.
No commercial concern could possibly maintain a trout farm on this
basis and it is necessary, therefore, that the working of these farms
be reviewed and brought in line with modern developments and
techniques, so as to make them a source of revenue and encouragement
for private enterprise.
° CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
In view of what is stated above, it would be clear that some drastic
changes in the layout and management of the Farm and Hatchery are
called for. In the layout, sanitation of the premises and ponds should
receive early consideration. A boundary wall, a small concrete reservoir
at the spring, a good settling tank and filter beds for the hatchery,
thinning of stocks with the building of more ponds among other
measures are necessary to improve sanitation. An analysis of the
spring water, analysis of the food values of country fish, ecology and
biology of the fauna and flora of the trout ponds and channels are
some of the basic scientific problems that need attention. The rational
feeding of the fish, both qualitatively and quantitatively, is of the utmost
importance. The practices of stripping, care of eggs and fingerlings
should be modernised. In view of natural reproduction in the streams,
the practice of stocking streams with eyed ova should be examined.
There is need to produce more trout to meet tourist demand and i
feel sure that the existing farms with suitable improvements can do
the job.
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NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM
BY
F. N. Betts
(With a map and one plate)
The area under consideration is portion of the NE. frontier district
of India bounded on the east by the Subansiri River, on the north
by the Himalayan Range, and on the south by the North Lakhimpur
District of Assam. On the west it adjoins the Balipara Frontier Tract.
TOPOGRAPHY
The area comprises a complete cross-section of the southern slopes
and foothills ot the Himalayas, rising abruptly from the Assam plain and
extending northward in a succession of steep and steadiiy heizhtening
east/ west ridges, terminating in the snow-clad summits of the main range
running up to over 20,000 tt. The principal rivers run ia deep gorges
between the ridges and flow eastward, either debouching into the S iban-
siri, as dues the Kamla, or, as in the case of the Par and Panior which are
nearest the plains, turning sharply southwards at the termination of their
course and cutting their own passages through the outermost range.
Tue Apa TANI VALLEY
This is quite the most remarkable teature of the district. It lies at a
height of 5,0V0 ft. surrounded by a ring of hills rising to 7,900 ft. and is a
flat oval plain of about 24 sq. miies, probably the bed of a dried-up lake,
and is the oaly considerable area of flat land in the whole district,
Population
The Apa Tani Valley is thickly populated by a settled tribe practising
permanent agriculture of an intensive type. The rest of the area is
sparsely inhabited by Daflas, a primitive and savage people, who exist by
hunting and shifting ‘jhum’ cultivation.
Vegetation and Climate
‘The outer ranges rising steeply from the Assam plains to a height of
4/5,900 ft. receive the full force of the SW. mons on and experience a very
heavy rainfali. ‘They are covered from foot to summit by dense tropical
rain forest. This also éxtends along the bottom of the gorges of the
principal rivers far into the hills, gradua‘ly chanzing into a drier type,
often deciiuous and much mixed with giant bamboo. Ihe interior ranges
have a much drier climate, and u.» to 5,000 ft. hive b2en denuded of their
original forest by Datla‘ jhuming’. Where the population is low there
is a regenerated growth of secondary wocdland of a more temperate
character, mostly evergreen oak and chestnut, but over wide areas, as in
the Pein Valley, the trees have gone for good and the hillsides are covered
398 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
in long, coarse thatching grass. The Daflas do not live or cultivate much
above 5,000 ft. and the summits of the ridyes above this altitude are again
covered in heavy evergreen forest though of a less tropical type than that
of the outer range.
This description holds good for the country to a depth of 50-69 miles
north from the plains, which is as far as exploration has gone. Further
in, no doubt, as in the neighbouring Balipara Frontier Tract, one reaches
the truly temperate zone characterised by Pzus excelsa and deciduous
oak at the foot of the main range merging into rhododendron and alpine
flora at higher altitudes. In the part of the area under consideration in
this paper, however, there is no natural coniferous forest.
The Apa Tani Valley is a complete contrast to the rest of the district.
The flat floor is cultivated throughout with terraced paddy fields wherever
irrigation is possible, and millet in the drier parts. Round -the large
villages are carefully fenced and tended vegetable gardens and plantations
of Pinus excelsa and a species of bamboo which are grown for use in
building and as firewood. Neither pine nor bamboo are locally indige-
nous and were brought with the tribe on their criginal immigration
which must have taken place many hundred years ago as some of the
pines are of enormous size. ‘! he comparatively small area which remuzins
uncultivaied consists of low, bra ken-covered hummocks which in spring
are a mauve sea of Primula dfenticul ita.
The winter climate is severe as a heavy mist settles each evening and
does not disperse until ten o'clock in the morning; and in December and
January there are hard night frosts. The Valley lies on a main migration
route between the Indian plains and Central Asia and in the spring,
particularly, the fallow paddy land is a favourite halting place for a great
variety of waders and waterfowl. .
The list which follows probably includes less than 30% of the species
which actually occur in the area. I spent eighteen months there, but had
very little time for serious ornithologica! work, while the high evergreen
forest with its tangled undergrowt!: of bamboo and cane which covers so
much of the country is extremely difficult to work thoi1oughly. The
specimens I obtained are in the British Museum of Naturai History,
South Kensington. The nomenclature and sequence are mainly those of
the Fauna o: British India, Stuart Baker, as corrected in Vol. 8 of that
work. I have used trinomials only where specimens have been collected
and identified.
List
], Corvus macrorhynchos. Jungle Crow.
Dafla name: oa.
Numerous in the Apa Tani Valley and in the big permanent Dafla
villages of Talo and Jorum on its outskirts. Elsewhere scarce. It breeds
in May in the pine trees round the Apa ‘Vani viliages, and also on the
fringes of the forest bordering the cultivated land. No specimens were
obtained so that it is unknown whether the Himalayan or Burmese sub-
species is the form which occurs.
2, Urocissa flavirostris. Yellowbilled Magpie.
Not encountered in the part of the Subansiri area proper which I was
able to visit as suitable biotope was absent. On a tour to the Tibetan
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 399
frontier in the neighbouring Balipara Frontier Tract, however, I found it
common in the Ceciduous oak—/znus excelsa woods from 8,0U0-12,000 ft.
3. Cissa chinensis. Green Magpie.
Scarce. Seen at Pite, 2,000 ft , in bamboo and mixed forest and once
at Kore, 4,590 ft., in evergreen forest. it is a noisy bird but keeps to the
canopy of high forest and is hard to observe.
4, Dendrocitta formosae himalayensis. Himalayan Tree-pie.
Occurs throughout the area but is most numerous in the tropical rain
forests of the outer ranges, particularly at low elevations in bamboo and
riverine woodland. Usually one or two are seen in mixed hunting parties,
but sometimes one encounters family parties of five or six alone. ‘Two
specimens obtained at Pite, 1,5V0 ft., on the Panior River on 10-10-46 were
in moult.
5. Dendrocitta frontalis. Blackbrowed Tree-pie.
I believe I saw this bird on one occasion on Lasser Puttu on the outer
range in heavy evergreen jungle at 4,500 ft. ‘Lhe back of the crown and
occiput were almost white.
6. Nucifraga caryocatactes hemispila. Nutcracker.
This nutcracker was common onthe Se La in the Balipara Frontier
Tract near the Tibetan border in the alpine woods and meadows -near
villages from 8,0V0-12,000 ft. Sr
7. Parus monticolus monticolus. Greenbacked Tit. |
_ Fairly common in open woods and secondary jungle from 5,000 ft.
upwards. It occurs in cultivated land in the Apa Tani Valley. A speci-
men was shot at Kore, 5,000 ft. and a pair were seen there on May 20
carrying caterpillars to a hole in a tree-branch at a height of 25 ft.
8. Machlolophus spilonotus. Blackspotted Tit.
Seen at all seasons in light forest on the hills round the Apa Tani
Valley, 5-6,000 ft., usually in mixed flocks with other insectivorous birds.
9, Aegithaliscus concinnus iredalei.t Redheaded Tit.
Frequents lightly-wooded country at Kore, 5,000 ft., and the Apa
Tani Valley in cultivation, pine and bamboo groves and the scrubby
firewood reserves. Usually in family parties of 7 or 8, often with other
species.
10. Melanochlora sultanea. [Indian Sultan Tit.
Widely distributed and fairly common in evergreen forest from the
lowest elevations up to 4,000 ft. Usually seen in small parties of 3 or 4
in company with other insectivorous species. Keeps to the tree tops.
lull Suthora poliotis daflaensis. Dafla Suthora.
Not uncommon in flocks in secondary scrub in the Apa Tani firewood
reserves at about 6,000 ft. A specimen was obtained.
1 or rubricapillus ?—EDS.
400 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
12. Sitta castaneiventris. Cinnamonbellied Nuthatch.
Not uncommon at medium elevations, 2-5,000 ft. in light or secon-
dary forest.
13, Sitta formosa. Beautiful Nuthatch.
Rare. Only seen twice, on both occasions in the canopy of high-
elevation forest. A specimen was obtained at 7,0uQ0 ft. between Kore and
the Apa Tani Valley.
14, Dryonastes ruficollis. Rufousnecked Laughing Thrush.
Occurs in the plains at the foot of the outer range, but -lso commonly
in the Pein Valley, 4,00 ft., haunting the ‘sholas’ and scrub in the
hollows of the thatch-grass clad downs. Also seen on the borders of the
Apa ‘Tani Valley in the scrubby firewood reserves at Hapulia, 5,000 ft.
A noisy species with sweet whistling calls.
15, Garrulax leucolophus. Whitecrested Laughing Thrash.
Common in the river vaileys in bamboo and mixed forest but not seen
above 3,000 ft. A specimen was shot out of a Jarge flock on the Pein
River at 1,500 ft. 7
16, Garrulax moniliger. Indian Necklaced Laughing Thrush.
Distribution similar to the last. Occurs in very large parties of thirty
or forty birds and is extremely noisy.
17. lanthocincla rufogularis. Rufouschinred Laughing Thrush.
A flock was seen in secondary scrub jungle at Kore, 5,016 ft., in April.
They were making a great noise and weie apparently pairing off.
18. Trochalopterum erythrocephalum. The Redheaded Laughing
Thrush.
Occurs in flocks in ‘sholas’ and scrub in the valleys of the Pein River
downs. ‘Iwo specimens were obtained on the Kale River at 4,50u ft.
19, Trochalopterum phoeniceum phoeniceum. Assam Crimsonwinged
Laughing Thrush.
Uncommon, A specimen was shot out of a flock feeding with a large
mixed hunting party in dense bracken and scrub on Kore hill at 5,00t ft.
Also seen in the undergrowth of high evergreen forest between Kore and
the Apa Tani Valley at 6,000 ft.
20, Grammatoptila striata. Striated Laughing Thrush.
A specimen was shot out of the tree-tops in high evergreen forest
above the Apa Tani Valley at 6,0L0 ft. It was the only one ever seen in
the district.
21. Pomatorhinus ferruginosus ferrugincsus. Coralbilled Scimitar Bab-
bler.
Dafla name: Zv chuvrz.
Uncommon, Specimens were brought in by Daflas caught locally at
Kore, 5,900 ft,
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 401
99. Xiphiramphus superciliaris. Slenderbilled Scimitar Babbler.
A solitary specimen was seen in thick evergreen forest on Tasser
Puttu at 4,000 ft. on the plains slope. A mixed insectivorous hunting
flock was feeding in the trees above, but this bird went bounding away
over the ground in long ratlike hops, making such a raucous screaming
that I suspected a nest but could not find one. It was a big, chestnut
brown scimitar babbler with an astonishingly long, slender, curved bill,
quite unmistakable.
93. Stachyris chrysaea. Goldenheaded Babbler.
A common bird in the scrub of the firewood reserves round the Apa
Tani Valley at 5-6,000 ft. Usually seen in mixed flocks with 4lzppe
nipalensis and other ‘small birds. It is an active and restless species,
slipping through the bamboos and undergrowth, seldom ascending high
trees, and rarely, if ever, dropping to the ground. I saw a pair carrying
bamboo leaves in May but failed to find the nest. This was in the Apa
Tani woods at 6,000 ft. |
24, Alcippe nipalensis. Nepal Babbler.
Common in the Pein Valley in scrub and light jungle. A specimen
was shot at Kore, 5,0U0 ft.
25. Pseudominla castaneiceps castaneiceps. Chestnutheaded Babbler.
A specimen was obtained. Exact locality not recorded.
26, Heterophasia picaoides. Longtailed Sibia.
I saw one at Lichi in the valley of the Panior River at 3,000 ft. in tall
scrub in a clearing in evergreen torest.
27, Leioptila gracilis. Grey Sibia.
On Donko [uttu, a hill above the Apa Tani Valley I saw a sibia with
a black head, grey uprer parts and whitish underparts which looked like
this bird and not ZL. annectens. ‘This was in evergreen forest at 7,000 ft.
but only just beyond the pine belt. LI also believe I have heard its distinc-
tive, melancholy call round the Apa Tani Valley. I was unfortunately
unable to shoot a specimen, and as this species is not recorded north of
the Brahmaputra, the identification must remain subject to confirmation.
28. Leioptila annectens annectens. Elyth’s Sibia.
I shot a specimen in an alder coppice at Kore, 5,000 ft.
29, Leioptila pulchella pulchella. Peautiful Sibia.
Not uncommon in high, evergreen forest on the crests of the higher
hills at 6—-7,000 ft. They go about in pairs or small parties, feecing
mostly on the moss-grown trunks of the trees and not in the canopy.
They hop actively along the big boughs, stopping abruptly at intervals,
and at first sight with their jerky movements may quite easily be mistaken
for one of the small tree squirrels also found there. I shot two specimens
ie ac Puttu, 7,000 ft., aud on the divide between Kore and the Apa Tani
Valley.
402 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
30. Sibia nipalensis daflaensis. Austen’s Barwing.
Found in the high evergreen forest on the summits of the highest
ranges above 7,0/0 ft. Here it is common, going about in parties of 5
or 6, and is very noisy with most peculiar call notes. They feed largely
in the tree-tops and upper mossy branches, but are extremely tame and
curious, and when I was camping on Pad Puttu in a snowstorm, several
came down to wiihin a few feet of me to have a look, ‘Two specimens
were shot on Pad Puttu and Donko Puttu.
31, Siva cyanouroptera cyanouropiera. Hodgson’s Bluewinged Siva.
A common bird in the bramble and secondary growth round Kore.
It is also one of the few species fairly common in the cultivation and pine
and bamboo plantations of the Apa Tan: Valley. It is usually seen in
considerable flocks in company with Lezotirix and esta.
32, Yuhina gularis. Stripethroated Yuhina.
I saw a flock cf largish, brown-crested yuhinas on Donko Puttu
above the Apa Tant Vall ley in the tree-tops at 7,010 ft. which I doubt-
fully identified as this species. 1 have also seen the same birds among
rhododendron growth on the divide belvean Koie and the Apa ‘Lani
Valley.-
33, Yuhina nigrimentum nigrimentum. Blackchinned Yuhina.
Not uncommon in flocks in the high evergreen woods of the Apa Tani
hunting ground, 6,0U0 ft.
34, Ixulus occipitalis. Chestnutheaded Ixulus.
35, Ixulus flavicollis flavicollis. Yellow naped Ixulus.
Both the above were common all round the Apa Tani Walle in the
forests on the hills, also in the open bramble and alder growth round
Kore. ‘They pecnnied in considerable flocks, feeding both in the tree-
tops and in the undergrowth. A specimen | obtained of /. flavzcollis was
identitied as the typical subspecies and not daz/eyz.
35. Leiothrix lutea. Redbilled Leiothrix.
Common round every Dafla village in recently abandoned ‘jhum”
land. Very common round Kore and in the scrubby Apa Tani firewood
reserves, but not seen in ihe cultivated area inthe Apa Tani Valley. The
male has a sweet little song of half a dozen notes. It is very like Wesia
argentauris in habits and frequently consorts with that species. I found
a nest (c/2) on May 20 at Hapulia, 5,000 ft., beside a path in dense
scrub.
37, Cutia nipalensis. Nepal Cutia.
Only once encountered when a pair were seen in the canopy of high
forest on ‘lasser Puttu, 4,500 ft., the crest of the outer range.
38, Pteruthius erythropterus. Redwinged Shrike Babbler.
Only twice seen. I shot a solitary specimen at Kore, 5,000 ft. it was
feeding on a leafless tree and was slow and sluggish in its movements.
A small flock was encountered on another occasion in scrub at the edge
of the Apa Tani firewood reserves. .
NOTES ON. BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 403
39. Chloropsis hardwickii hardwickii. Orangebellied Chioropsis.
Occurs all over the hiils in forest both in the mixed bamboo and deci-
duous riverine jungle at 2,000 ft. and the high evergreen forest at 7,000
ft. or more.
40. Mesia argentauris argentauris. Silvereared Mesia.
Very common in large flocks in scrub and light jungle throughout the
Pein Valley and in the Apa Tani firewood reserves and bamboo planta-
tions. They pair off in April and retire to scrubby nullahs where they.
become shy and hard to see, but can be detected by their long-drawn
call note. A specitnen was shot at Kore, 5,0u0 ft.
4], Minla ignotincta. Redtailed Minla.
Dafla name: Pobhum dastn.
Quite common in the winter all over the hills from 3,000 ft. upwards
but most numerous at about 4—-5.00U ft. They are sometimes found in
separate flocks in scrub and light tree jungle but are generally in mixed
parties, and work the tree-trunks like a tree-creeper or piculet.
42, Criniger gularis. Indian Whitethroated Bulbul.
Occurs in evergreen jungle in the lower foothills up to 4,500 ft.
43, Microscelis psaroides. Black Bulbul.
One of the commonest bulbuls all over the higher hills, descending to
lower levels in winter. Usually seen in noisy flocks in the tree-tops.
Specimen not obtained, and it is not known whether the form occurring is
psaroides or nNLZVescens. |
44, Ixos flavala. Himalayan Browneared Bulbul.
Common in mixed flocks in the secondary woodland and sholas of the
Pein Valley. Specimens shot on Oct. 10, were in moult.
45, Ixos macclellandi macclellandi. Rufousbeilied Bulbul.
This large bulbul is not uncommon in secondary ‘jhum’ scrub with a
fair proportion of larger trees, such as is found around Kore. Usually seen
‘in twos or threes in mixed flocks. ‘The white throat of loose, lanceolate
feathers is very noticeable in the field.
46, Alcurus striatus. Striated Green Bulbul.
Not common, but was seen in various places at fairly high elevations,
usually in high tree-tops on the edge of evergreen forest. ‘They are
usually in pairs and are very noisy.
47. Mbolpastes cafer. Bengal Redvented Bulbul.
Dafla name : Vielz betom.
Very common in open country such as the Pein River downs up to
5,000 ft. A specimen was shot at Yatchuli, 4,000 {t., and a nest with 2
incubated eggs was found at the same place in an isolated bush in grass-
land on 25th May.
404 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST-> SOCIETY, Vol. 53
48. Otocompsa jocosa emeria. Bengal Redwhiskered Bulbul.
Dafla name: Vakshoh,
Very common everywhere in the open country of the Pein downs,
gathering at times into considerable Hocks.
49. Certhia discolor discolor. Sikkim Tree-creeper.
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
50. Tesia castaneocoronata. Chestnutheaded Wren.
A wren which I believe to be this species is not uncommon in the
scrubby firewood reserves on the hillsides bordering the Apa ‘Tani Valley
at 5-6,000 ft.
51. Cinclus pallasi. Indian Brown Dipper.
Coxnmon on all the larger rivers and streams from 2,000 ft. upwards;
at the lower elevations only ia winter,
52. Saxicola torquata. Indian Bushchat.
Common in winter in the open country of the Pein River downs and
the Apa Tani Valley. I saw a pair in April on the downs at Jorum. The
male was in full plumage and I suspect they were breeding.
53, Rhodophila ferrea ferrea. Western Dark-grey Bushchat.
Occurs al! over the hills in ‘jhum’ cultivation round Dafla villages and
is one of the few species permanently resident and breeding in the highly
cultivated Apa l'ani Valley. A nest with four eggs was found at Duta
on April 20. It was a cup lined with hair in a hole in one of the thick
brushwood fences which surrounded the bamboo groves which the Apa
‘lanis cultivate. The eggs were immaculate Hedgesparrow blue.
54, Enicurus maculatus. Spotted Forktail.
Occurs on the smaller rapid streams in heavy forest at all elevations
and to a lesser extent on the larger rivers. It is not numerous.
55. Enicurus schistaceus. Sjatybacked Forktail.
Distribution as the last species but commoner—the commonest forktail
of the area. I found a nest being built on May 28 on the Petti Pobhu
stream in the Panior Valley at 2,000 ft. It was on a large boulder two
feet above water level in the stream bed. It was a solid cup of moss,
soaking wet, and was being lined with blackish roots.
56, Enicurus leschenaulti. DLeschenauit’s Forktail.
Found along the larger rivers and their tributaries in heavy forest up
to 2,000 ft. but not common.
57. Microcichla scouleri. Little Forktail.
Seen once on the Kale River at 3,500 ft.
58. Phoenicurus frontalis. Bluefronted Redstart.
Seen at Kore, 5,000 ft. in December. A winter visitor presumably.
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 405
£9, Phoenicurus hodgsoni. Hodgson’s Redstart.
A pair once seen at Kore. Winter visitor.
60. Chaimarrhornis leucocephala. Whitecipped Redstart.
A common winter visitor on ali the larger rivers at all heights.
61. Rhyacornis fuliginosa. Plumbeous Redstart.
To be seen on all the rivers and streams in the area in winter. I
strongly suspect it of breeding in the district at higher elevations. A
pair on the Pein River below Kore at 4,500 ft. appeared from their
actions to have a nest, though [ failed to find it.
62, Copsychus saularis. Magpie-Robin.
Rare in the hills. The only ones s2en were a pair which were feeding
young on April 30 in a hole JU feet up in a tree in the open grassland
of the lower Pein Valley.
63. Turdus merula albocinctus. Whitecollared Biackbird.
A small party were seen in January on Pad Puttu, 6,000 ft. in thick
forest.
64, Turdus boulboul. Greywinged Blackbird.
One was seen at 4,500 ft. in ‘ jhums’ on the edge of forest.
65, Turdus ruficollis. Redthroated Thrush.
66, Turdus atrogularis. Blackthroated Thrush.
67. Turdus unicolor. Tickell's Thrush.
68. Turdus obscurus. Dark Thrush.
All these thrushes are common winter visitors in open country and
secondary scrub all over the hills. ‘They wander about in large flocks and
the species mix freely.
69, Geokichla citrina. Orangeheaded Ground Thrush.
Not very common but resident in heavy evergreen jungle at moderate
elevations. I found a nest almost certainly of this species on May 27.
It was a sturdy cup, largely made of moss and lined with rootlets, 10
feet up in a low tree overhanging the path in thick forest at 3,500 ft. on
the north slopes of Lasser Puttu.
70. Oreocincla dauma. Smallbilled Mountain Thrush.
Once seen in November in a wooded ravine below Kore, 4,500 ft.
71. Greocincla mollissima. Plainbacked Mountain Thrush.
I shot one of a pair in December at 5,0U0 ft. above Kore in the Apa
Tani woods.
72, Myiophoneus caeruleus. Himalayan Whistling Thrush.
Not very common. One cr two were seen on hill-streams on the
slopes of ‘Lasser Puttu, 4,500 ft.
406. JOURNAL, BOMBAY. NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
73, Siphia strophiata strophiata. Orangegorgeted Flycatcher.
A fairly common winter visitor. A specimen was obtained at Kore.
74. Muscicapula melanoleuca. Little Pied Flycatcher.
Atrives in the hilis above 4,500 ft. in considerable numbers in March,
presumably to breed. They haunt fairly open country and cultivation.
I have seen them at Kore, the Pein Vailey ‘sholas’ and the Apa Tani
Valley.
75, Eumyias thalassina. Verditer Flycatcher.
Occurs in fair numbers all over the hills at all times of the year. I
have seen it up to 7,000 ft. It is usually found in cultivation or secon-
dary jungle. A tall dead tree in cleared ‘jhum’ jand makes a very
favourite look-out. It has a sweet little song.
76, Anthipes monileger monileger. Hodgson’s Whitegorgeted Fly-
catcher.
A specimen was obtained and others seen in scrubby ravines in broken
country below Kore, 4,500 ft. :
77, Culicicapa ceylonensis. Greyheadced Flycatcher.
A regular member of the mixed hunting flocks in evergeen forest all
over the hills. It is a permanent resident and the commonest flycatcher
of the district.
78, Niltava grandis grandis. Large Niltava.
Seen on several occasions in undergrowth and low trees under high
forest on the borders of the Apa Tani Valley at 6,000 ft.
79, Niltava macgrigoriae. Small Niltava.
Uncommon. Similar im habitat and distribution to WV. grandis.
80, Tchitrea paradisi. Indian Paradise Flycatcher.
Only seen in the ‘ terai’ forest belt at the foot of the hills adjoining
the plains at 2—3,000 ft. The subspecies occurring was not ascertained. —
8]. Rhipidura albicollis. Whitethroated Fantail Flycatcher.
Occurs all over the hills. Usually seen as single birds accompanying
mixed insectivorous flocks in forest.
82. Lanius nigriceps. Indian Blackheaded Shrike.
Common in open country such as the Pein Valley downs, and is one
of the few species breeding in numbers in the highly cultivated Apa Tani
Valley. It nests throughout May im the small patches of scrub in the
hollows of the bare, bracken-clad grazing grounds. ‘The nest is in any
' conspicuous thorny bush. Almost every patch of scrub has a pair, The
clutch is 4-6. :
83. Hemipus picatus capitalis. Brownbacked Pied Shrike. |
~ Quite common all over the hills up to 7 000 ft., usually in pairs or sinall
family parties.
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 407
84, Pericrocoius brevirostris affinis. Assam Shortbilled Minivet.
A specimen was obtained but locality not recorded.
85, Lalage melaschista. Dark-grey Cuckoo-shrike.
Occurs fairly commonly in riverine bamboo jungle and the oak and
chestnut woods of old abandoned ‘ jhum’ land, but not seen in the virgin
evergreen forest of the high hills.
86, Graucalus macei. Large Himalayan Cuckoo-shrike.
Occurs sparsely all over the hills in secondary open jungle and aban-
doned ‘jhums’.
87. Dicrurus macrocercus. Black Drongo.
88. Dicrurus leucophaeus. Grey Drongo.
Both these drongos occur commonly at low elevations in the river
valleys.
89, Chaptia aenea aenea. Northern Bronzed Drongo.
Fairly common around Dafla villages and new ‘jhum’ clearings.
Birds seen at Selsemchi, 1,509 ft., on the outer range in October were in
moult with the tail feathers growing. It occurs in the Apa Tani Valley
and may well breed there in the pines as I have seen a pair in May
chasing a crow out of a grove.
90. Chibia hottentotta. Haircrested Drongo.
Fairly common at low and medium elevations in the forest bordering
on ‘jhum’ clearings. A specimen was shot at Lichi, 3,000 ft., on May
27. I saw two pairs building in this neighbourhood at Petti Pobhu in
evergreen jungle. One nest was in the outer branches of a high tree, but
the other was not more than 15 ft. up in a tree overhanging a streain.
Both were hammocks of bark and rootlets like that of Déssemurus, and
lacked the cobweb plastering used by the smaller drongos.
91, Bhringa remifer. The Indian Lesser Racket-tailed Drongo.
Seen on several occasions up to 4,000 ft. in heavy forest on the
outer ranges. :
92, Dissemurus paradiseus. Large Racket-tailed Drongo.
Not common but occurs, usually in pairs, in mixed flocks with tree-
pies and other birds up to 7,000 ft. in dense forest.
- 93, Franklinia gracilis. Franklin’s Wren-Warbler.
Common round Kore, 5,000 ft. on the bracken-clad hillsides in small
parties.
94, Seicercus affinis. Allied Flycatcher-Warbler.
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
95, Seicercus poliogenys. Greycheeked Flycatcher-Warbler.
Very common all round the Apa Tani Valley in the scrubby firewood
reserves at about 6,000 ft. A constant member of the mixed hunting
parties. ;
7
408 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
96. Abrornis schisticeps. Blackfaced Flycatcher-Warbler.
I saw a pair on one occasion in the Apa 7J’ani firewood reserves in a
mixed hunting party.
97, Abrornis albogularis albogularis. Whitethroated Flycatcher-Warbler.
A low elevation species. I shot a specimen, one of a pair, in bamboo
and deciduous forest on the river bank at Pein, 3,000 ft.
98. Horornis pallidipes. Blanford’s Behe Warbicn
I found a nest which must have belonged to this species (or
Hi. tortipes ®) at Likha, 4,000 ft. by a path running through abandoned
‘jhums’, overgrown with thatch-grass and brambles. It was three feet
from the ground, a very deep and buiky cup of dead leaves, lined with
feathers, some of them green, and contained 4 eggs of a uniform deep
purplish chocolate.
99, Prinia flaviventris. Yellowbeilied Wren-Warbler.
Occurs in grassland in the Pein Valley round Yatchuli at 3,500 ft.
100, Irena puella. Fairy Bluebird.
Occurs somewhat uncommonly in the river valley forests up to
3,000 ft.
101, Oriolus traillii. Maroon Oriole.
Not uncommon in the forest on the hills round the Apa Tani Valley
at 6,000 ft. Unlike the golcen orioles it is a very silent bird.
102, Saroglossa spiloptera assamensis. Assam Spottedwinged Stare.
Only once encountered when three specimens were shot from a large
flock on the outskirts of a ‘shola’ on the Pein River downs at 3,500 ft.
on October 10. One of them, a female, was in moult,
103. Munia atricapilla. Northern Chestnutbellied Munia.
An inhabitant of swamps at low elevations at the foot of the hills.
104. Uroloncha striata. Hodgson’s Munia.
Common all over the hills in secondary ‘jhum’ cultivation in small
flocks.
105. Passer rutilans cinnamomeus. Cinnamon Tree-sparrow.
Dafla name: P2chz.
Occurs round the Apa Tani villages and cultivation in fair numbets.
I found them breeding at Duta, 5,000 ft., in May in holes in wild pear
trees, several nests in one tree. ‘The nests are pads of pine needles. The
usual clutch was 4 and the eggs were very variable.
106. Emberiza pusilla. Little Bunting.
A fairly common winter migrant in open country, particularly in the
Apa Tani Valley.
107. Melophus lathami. Crested Bunting.
In winter occurs in flocks all over the hills in open thatch grass
country. It is apparently a breeding visitor to the Apa Tani Valley where
i
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 409
it is one of the few birds inhabiting the bare, bracken-covered grazing
grounds. From late April on they are numerous there in pairs, but up to
the end of May I failed to find a nest and even then some of the males
were in winter plumage.
108. Anthus hodgsoni hodgsoni. Indian Tree Pipit.
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
109. Aethopyga saturata saturata. Blackbreasted Sunbird.
Widely but sparingly distributed at all elevations both in open
‘jhum’ land and the dense forests round the Apa Tani Valley up
to 6,000 ft.
110. Pitta nipalensis. Bluenaped Pitta.
Once seen. A femaie was shot on the ground at 6,009 ft. in dense
forest on the border of the Apa Tani Valley.
111. Pitta cucullata. Greenbreasted Pitta.
I saw a pair in the Kimin Nullah at 500 ft. in the foothill ‘ terai’
forest on 25-5-47. ‘They were flying about together in a purposeful
manner as though nest-building or feeding young.
112, Serilophus rubropygius. Hodgson’s Broadbill.
Once seen. A Specimen was shot in bamboo jungle on the banks of
the Panior River at IETS, Ih SOO) site,
113, Psarisomus dalhousiae. JLongtailed Broadbill.
Occurs in flocks in riverine jungle along the Panior River and its
tributaries up to 3,000 ft.
114, Dryobates darjellensis. Darjeeling Pied Woodpecker.
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
115. Dryobates nanus. Pigmy Woodpecker.
Seén in woodland patches on the Pein River downs, usually in mixed
flocks with other insectivorous birds.
116. Blythipicus pyrrhotis. Redeared Woodpecker.
Heard and seen on a number of occasions in riverine evergreen and
bamboo forest.
117. Mulleripicus pulverulentus. [ndian Great Slaty Woodpecker.
A bird of low elevations, only seen in the tall evergreen forest of the
‘terai’ at the foot of the hills near the Kinin River.
118. Vivia innominatus innominatus. Speckled Piculet.
119. Sasia ochracea ochracea. Rufous Piculet.
Both these piculets were seen together in company with minlas, sivas
and mesias in mixed hunting parties in patches of woodland on the Pein
River downs.
410 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 58
120. Megalaima virens magnifica. Great Himalayan Barbet.
Common all over the hills at all elevations.
121, Megalaima asiatica asiatica. Bluethroated Barbet.
Common all over the hills at all elevations.
122. Megalaima franklinii. Goldenthroated Barbet,
Not uncommon in the tall evergreen forest.of the Apa Tani hunting
ground at 5-6,000 ft.
123, Cuculus canorus. Asiatic Cuckoo.
A form of the cuckoo, probably subspecies ¢elephonus, occurs
not very commonly on the higher hills above 4,000 ft. during the breed-
ing season.
124, Cuculus optatus. Himalayan Cuckoo.
Very common in the high woods of the Apa Tani hunting grounds
above 5,000 ft.
125. Cuculus poliocephalus. Small Cuckoo.
A common summer visitor to the hills. One was shot at Kore, 5, 000 tes
in April.
126. Cuculus micropterus. Indian Cuckoo.
Very common indeed all over the hills.
127. Surniculus lugubris. Drongo Cuckoo.
Seen once in ‘ jhum ’ cultivation at Likha, 4,000 ft.
128, Clamator coromandus. Redwinged Crested Cuckoo.
Seen once or twice in April and May in secondary jungle at fairly low
elevations.
129, Centropus bengalensis. Lesser Coucal.
Common in the thatch-grass covered downs of the Pein Valley at
3—4,000 ft. One which I disturbed on a very dewy morning was so
soaked that it could scarcely fly.
130. Eurystomus orientalis. Broadbilled Roller.
Not uncommon at low elevations in ‘ jhum ’ clearings along the Panior
Valley. Its favourite hunting stances are the tall dead trees left after the
forest has been burned for clearing.
131. Ceryle lugubris. Himalayan Pied Kingfisher.
Found all along the Panior and other large rivers of the district,
though thinly distributed as each pair seems to occupy a long stretch of
water.
132. Alcedo atthis. Common Indian Kingfisher.
The only kingfisher seen in the Apa T’'ani Valley where it occurs on
the Kale River at 5,000 ft.
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM Ald
133. Alcedo hercules. Blyth’s Kingfisher.
Seen once on May 27 on the Petti Pobhu, a small stream running
through dense evergreen forest at 2,000 ft. A bird passed me three times
in an hour carrying a fish in its beak and evidently feeding young. I
was unable to find the nest, however.
134. Dichoceros bicornis. Great Hornbill,
Only seen at comparatively low elevations up to 2,000 ft. in the ever-
green forest along the Panior River.
135. Rhyticeros undulatus. Malayan Wreathed Hornbill.
Common in small parties in evergreen forest throughout the hills
from plains level up to 6,000 ft. The call is a loud croak but it is not
nearly so vociferous as most hornbills. They are very shy and wary,
being, like the other large members of the family, much hunted by the
local tribesmen not only for food but for the sake of their casques and
tail-feathers which are worn as head-dress ornaments.
136, Aceros nipalensis. Rufousnecked Hornbill.
Not common. A pair were seen on Tasser Puttu, 4,000 ft., in heavy
forest.
137, Harpactes erythrocephalus. Redheaded Trogon.
Not common. One was. seen in a mixed hunting party in riverine
bamboo jungle at Pite, 2,000 {t., and a specimen was shot at Talo, 5,000 ft.,
in evergreen forest.
138, Harpactes wardii. Ward’s Trogon.
Only once encountered. A party of a male and two females was seen
in evergreen forest above Kore, 5,500 ft. and one of the females was
collected. |
139, Cypsiurus batassiensis. Paim Swift.
Seen round the Dafla village of Selsemchi, 1,800 ft. They probably
breed in the thatched eaves of the houses as they do in Naga villages in
the hills where the normal nesting sites are not available owing to the
absence of palm trees.
140. Hirundapus giganteus. Brownrumped Spinetail.
I watched a large flock of fifty or more flying up and down a stretch
of the Panior River, 2,000 ft., one evening. A dozen or so at a time
‘would swoop down and dip in the river simultaneously raising a series of
longitudinal splashes like a shoal of flying fishes taking wing.
In April I have seen isolated pairs hawking round clearings where the
swamps of the Apa Tani Valley run up into the forest at 5,000 ft., and I
suspect that they were breeding there.
141. Ictinaétus malayensis. Black Eagle.
The only large raptor at all common in the hills. I once saw a flock
of over twenty circling together over the Pein Valley. Usually they are
‘Solitary. One was shot at Kore while raiding a chicken-run.
412 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
142. Spilornis cheela. Crested Serperit Eagle.
Not uncommon in river valleys and ravines at fairly low elevations.
143, Bazajerdoni. Blyth’s Baza.
A pair were seen soaring and mewing over the ‘ terai’ jungle at Dejoo
on the edge of the plains.
144. Dendrophassa pompadora phayrei. Pompadour Green Pigeon.
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
145. Sphenocercus apicaudus. Pintailed Green Pigeon.
A specimen was obtained at Selsemchi, 1,5U0 ft.
146. Sphenocercus sphenurus. Wedgetaiied Green Pigeon.
Numerous round Kore, 5,000 ft., in April when a certain berry was in
season. ‘Two were collected.
147. Ducula badia. Hodgson’s Imperial Pigeon.
Large numbers were szen on the outer ranges between Selsemchi,
1,890 ft., and Lichi, 4,000 ft., where they were feeding on truiting trees in
heavy forest.
148, Columba pulchricollis. Ashy Woodpigeon.
Dafla name: Pukurr.
Occurs in the high-level evergreen forest between the Pein Valley and
the Apa Tani Plateau. I shot one out of a small flock in pine trees at
Soro, 6,000 ft. It is a silent and sluggish bird.
149, Chalcophaps indica. Emerald Dove.
Wicely spread all over the hills, but nowhere common.
150 Streptopelia orientalis orientalis. Rufous Turtle Dove.
Generally not common. Seen occasionally in pairs in paddy fields and
woodiand patches on the Pein Valley down. Much more numerous in
the Apa Tani Valley w here they ‘eed in the cultivation and breed in the
pine plantations. ‘Their numbers are greatly augmented aiter the harvest
when there is a big influx to glean the stubbles.
151, Streptopelia chinensis suratensis. Indian Spotted Dove.
Found in the gardens round Dafla villages, but not common.
152. Macropygia unchall. Bartailed Cuckoo Dove.
Scen at Kore, 5,000 ft. They were resident but not numerous and |
were unobtrusive, haunting nullahs choked with secondary jungle, and
feeding much on the ground. ‘The specimen I shot had its crop stuffed
with small black berries. “They ascend the highest hills at certain times
of year and I encountered flocks on top of Donko Puttu, 7,000 ft.
153. Polyplectron bicalcaratum. Peacock Pheasant.
Only encountered on the outer range from plains level up to the
sumiit of Tasser Puttu, 4,000 ft., in heavy evergreen forest.
Journ. Bompay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Blacknecked Cranes on Apa Tani paddy stubbles.
(Photos: F. N. Betts)
NOTES ON BIRDS OF THE SUBANSIRI AREA, ASSAM 413
154, Gallus bankiva. Common Red Junglefowl.
Occurs everywhere throughout the hills, though nowhere numerous as
it is much hunted by the Datlas.
155. Gennaeus horsfieldii. Blackbreasted Kalij Pheasant.
Occurs though not in large numbers all over tke hills.
15S. Arborophila torqueola torqueola. Common Hill Partridge.
Jeo
A specimen was obtained, but the locality not recorded.
157. Grus nigricollis. Blacknecked Crane.
A flock of 30-40 of these Cranes winter annually in the Apa Tani
Valiey, arriving in mid-December and leaving in March. They frequent
the open paddy stubbles and marshy fields and are extremely wary of
anyone except the Apa Tani villagers who never harmthem. Their
numbers appear tou be very constant and the villagers informed me that
they had been coming every year within human memory. A male was
shot for identification.
158. Vanellus vanellus. Lapwing.
A flock was seen on the fallow fields near Data in the Apa Tani
Valley on 2-12-47 and a specimen was shot.
159, Tringa ochropus. Green Sandpip2r.
A fairly common winter visitor to the Apa Tani Valley.
160. Tringa hypoleucos. Common Sandpiper.
A winter visitor found along the Panior River and other large streams
and rivers at all elevations. Usuaily seen singly.
161. Capella gallinago. Fantail Snipe.
Numerous in the swamps and fallow paddy fields of the Apa Tani
Valley in winter.
162. Phalacrocorax fuscicollis. Indian Shag.
Often seen on the Panior River as a wanderer from the plains,
163. Butorides striatus. Little Green Heron.
Occasionally seen usually solitary on the Panior River,
164, Anser indicus. Barheaded Goose.
A visitor to the Apa ‘Tani Valley on the spring passage, but not seen
in the autumn. ‘I hey are not seen in large flocks but two or three birds
at a time may rest for several days in the fallow paddy fields.
165, Casarcea ferruginea. Ruddy Shelduck.
The remarks under the last species apply to this one also,
166, Anas crecca. Common Teal.
414° JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 63
167. Spatula clypeata. Shoveller.
Visitors to. the Apa Tani Valley on passage. Specimens of both
species were shot on the Kale River on 2-12-47. j
168, Aythia ferina. Common Pochard.
A male was captured alive in the Apa Tani Valley on 30-10-47. It
was on migration and very exhausted.
169. Mergus merganser. Goosandet. |
Fairly common in winter on the Panior and other large rivers of the
area.
170. Podiceps cristatus. Great Crested Grebe.
A bird on passage was caught alive in the Apa Tani Valley in April
in a very exhausted condition.
NOTES ON THE HETEROCERA OF CALCUTTA
BY
D. G. SEVASTOPULO, F.R.E.S.
PART I
The following notes are based on series in my collection caught in
Calcutta between 1930 and 1946 and, from 1945 to 1946, on records of
monthly occurrences. Specimens were obtained by breeding, by attraction
to light, and by beating herbage and shrubs. Unfortunately the use of
Mercury Vapour light was not introduced until after I had left India for
good;Iam certain that its employment in Calcutta would have added
considerably to the following lists.
The following figures, supplied by the Alipore Meteorological Station,
are interesting :
Temperature Percentage Relative Total Rainfall
Maximum Minimum Humidity (mean of in inches
(mean) (mean) hourly values) (average)
One DE
Verena, sso SO 54°6 73 0:37
February ... 83°7 59-4: 69 1-17
March Soe NIZE) 68°8 68 1:36
April son SORE: ISS 71 175
May sce GOO Tae) 74 5°49
June son Se 78°6 81 11°69
July sao + aS) 78:6 85 12°81
August «. 89:0 Viste) 86 12°92
September... 89:9 78:0 86 S915
OGM? ~ Gog eR 73°8 82 4°48
November... 84:2 63°7 76 0°81
December ... 79°4 55:0 72 0:18
I have followed the Fauna of British India (Hampson, i-iv and Bell
and Scott, v) as regards nomenclature as these books are fairly easily
available.
SATURNIIDAB
Actias selene Hbn.—I have included this species, although I have
never met it personally, on the assurance of several. non-entomolo-
eical friends that they had seen it. It is quite unmistakable and
could not be confused with anything else.
BOMBYCIDAE
Ocinara varians Wlk.—Common throughout the year, both nomino-
typical and f. adbzcollis Wlk. Larva on peepul and other Ficus spp.
416 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
EUPTEROTIDAE
Eupterote undata Blanch—Fairly common in vi, I have no record for any
other month. ‘Ihe very hairy, very slow-growing larva appears to
be polyphagous.
E. geminata Wlk.—Common from v to ix. The larva is gregarious, feed-
ing on various trees and shrubs, and its hairs cause an intense irri-
tation when they come in contact with the human skin.
SPHINGIDAE
Acherontia lachesis F.—Faitly common from viii to xi. Ezgs can be
found on Jasminum samobac.
A. styx Westw.—Fairly common in all months except i, ti, v and xii.
Eggs on Jasminum samobac.
Herse convolvuli L.—Common, recorded in i, ii, ix, x and xi. Larvae on
Convolvulaceae spp.
Cephonodes hylas L.— Common at flowers 1n sunshine. Recorded for i,
iii, V, Vili, x1 and xii, ‘Larvae common on Gardenia.
Deilephila nerii L. —Common, recorded for all months except ili, iv and
x, Larvae common on oleandex.
D, hypothous Cr.—A single male in vii.
Nephele didyma F.—Common, also f. hespera F. Recorded for iii, iv, vi
and viii, Larvae on Carissa carandaus (Apocynaceae).
Macroglossum gyrans Wlk.—Uncommon at flowers in sunshine. Recorded
for ili and iv.
M, affictitia Btl.—Uncommon at flowers in sunshine. Recorded in v.
M. belis L.—Fairly common at flowers in sunshine. Records for viii
and 1x.
M. sitiene Wlk.—Rare at flowers in sunshine. Recorded in iv.
Hippotion celerio L,.—Common. Records for i, x, xi and xii.
H. echeclus Bsd.—Fairly common. Records for x and xi.
H. boerhaviae F.—Common. Records for i, v, vii, ix, x and xi.
Theretra nessus Drury—Fairly common. Recorded for x only.
T. clotho Drury—Common. Records for vii to xi.
T. latreillei Mac,, lucasi Wlk.~~A singie male in x.
T, alecto L.—Uncommon. Records for ii and v,
NOTES ON THE HETEROCERA OF CALCUTTA 417
T. oldenlandiae F,—Common, recorded in vii, viii, ix and xi. Larvae
common on arums and very varied.
T. pinastrina Mart.—Common. Recorded from viii to xi. Larvae com-
mon on cultivated balsam and very conspicuous.
Rhyncholaba acteus Cr.—Common. Recorded from vii to x. Larvae
very common on Caladium and other arums.
NOTODONTIDAE
Turnaca acuta Wlk.—Rare. Recorded in viii and ix.
Antheua servula Drury—A single female in vi.
Stauropus alternus W]k.—Bred in iii from larvae found on Cassza fistula
and castor.
Ichthyura restitura Wlk.—A single male in ii. Now Pygaera.
I, ferruginea Moore—A single female in vi. Now Pygaera.
SYNTOMIDAE
Syntomojdes imaon Cr.—Common. Recorded fromitoiv. Now Ceryx.
Syntomis cyssea Cr.—Common. Records for i, ii, iii, iv, viii and xi.
Now Azata.
S. passalis F.—Fairly common. Records for vi, vili, ix and x. Now
Amata.
S. confinis Wlk.—Fairly common. Records for ii, v and vi. Now
Evessa.
ZYGAENIDAR
Thyrassia subcordata Wlk.—Two females. Recorded in vii.
Trypanophora semihyalina Ko]].—Not uncommon. Records for i, ii, iii
and xi. Larvae on many shrubs.
Chalcosia thallo L.—Rare, recorded in xi. Now auwxo L.
PSYCHIDAE
Clania crameri Westw.—Fairly common. Bred in i, v and vi.
C. variegata Snell.—A single male at light ini.
Amatissa cuprea Moore—Fairly common. Ered in x.
Psyche fusca Hamps.—Two males at light in xi.
Chalioides vitrea Hamps.—Fairly common, Bred in vi and vii,
418 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53 .
COSSIDAE
Cossus acronyctoides Moore—Rare. Recorded in vi and Viii.
C. cadambae Moore.—A single female in iii.
Duomitus leuconotus Wik.—A single female in ii. Pupa cases of what I
think are this species quite common protruding from trunks of Cassza
fistula. Now Xyleutes.
Azygophlebs scalaris F.—Uncommon. Recorded in vii and xi.
Zeuzera coffeae Nietn.—A pair recorded in x.
ARBELIDAE (now INDARBELIDAE)
Arbela quadrinotata Wlk.—Not uncommon. Recorded in iv. Now
Indarbela.
DREPANULIDAE (now DREPANIDAE)
Phalacra vidhisara Wlk.—Uncommon. Recorded for iii and xii.
Drapetodes mitaria Guen.—T wo femaies in xii.
THYRIDIDAE
Striglina scitaria Wlk.—Not uncommon. Recorded in i and x. Larva
on Phaseolus sp.
Rhodoneura myrsusalis Wlk.—Fairly common. Recorded in vi, x and xi,
LIMACODIDAE
Thosea cana \W1lk.—One female bred from a larva from Cassia fistula
ix
T. tripartita }foore—Common, recorded in iv and vi to x. Larvae on
Ricinus communis and Zizyphus jujuba.
T. loesa Moore—Uncommon, recorded in viii and xj. Larvae on areca
palm.
T. cervina Moore— Fairly common, records for v, vi, viii and ix.
Natada nararia Moore—Bred in i, iii and x from larvae found on
Lagerstroemia indica. Now Macroplectra.
Parasa lepida Cr.—Very common. Recorded from v to x. Larvae
common on mango and less so on Gardinia.
P. hilaralis Westw.—Bred from larvae on an unidentified food-plant in
ii and x.
P, bicolor Wlk,—Uncommon. Recorded in v and vi. (1
NOTES ON THE HETEROCERA OF CALCUTTA 419
Cania bilinea Wlk.—Not uncommon. Records for vi, viii, x and xil.
Altha nivea W1k.—Common, records for viii, ix and xi. Larvae on
Tinospora cordttolia.
Narosa doenia Moore—A number bred in iii and iv from larvae found on
Ricinus communts.
LASIOCAMPIDAE ~
Taragama siva Lef—Common. Recorded in ii, iii, iv, v, ix andx. Now
Nadiasa.
Metanastria hyrtaca Cr.—Common. Recorded in all months except iv,
ix and x. Larva on Mimusops elengi (Sapotaceae).
Trabala vishnu Lef.—Very common. Recorded for all months except ii,
iii, ix and x. Larvae on various plants.
Estigena pardalis Wlk.—Common. Recorded in i, il, iii, vi, x, xi and xii,
Larvae on Carissa carandas.
LYMANTRIIDAE
Orgyia postica W1lk.—Fairly common. Recorded ini and ix. Larvae on
Lagerstroemia tndica.
Aroa plana Wlk.—Uncommon. Records for ix and xii.
Laelia exclamationis Ko]].—Bred from larvae found on coarse grass in x.
Dasychira mendosa Hbn.—Common. Records for i, ii, iii, xi and xii,
Male forms dzvisa Wik., bdasalzs Wik. and an unnamed one in addition
to the nominotypical. Larvae on Lagerstroemta indica, all with
grey dorsal tufts. Ihave never seen the yeliow-tufted form described
by Hampson.
D. securis Hbn.— Not very common. Only record for viii. Larvae on
coarse grass. I have found it very delicate in captivity. Now Psalzs
pennatula F.
Lymantria ampla W1k.—Very common, records for all months except iv,
vii and viii. Males assemble freely to the wingless females. Larvae
on many plants, Cvolalarvia, Lagerstroemia indica, mango, palms and
many others.
L. nigra Moore—Commop. Records for ii, iv, viii, ix, x, xi and ‘xii.
Larvae on Mango. Hampson’s omnibus species beatrix Stoll. has
- been split up into several.
L, obsoleta Wlk.—Common. Recorded for all months except v, ix and xii.
Euproctis subfasciata Wlk,—-Uncommon. Records for iii and vi.. Larvae
on Ouisgualis indica.
4.20 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
E. bimaculata Wlk.—Uncommon. Records for iv, vi, ix, x and xii.
E. lunata Wlk.—Uncommon. Records for ii, iii and x. Larvae on
Carissa carandas.
E. howra Moore—Common. Recorded in i, vii, ix and xi.
E. flavinata W1k.—A single male in vi.
E. varians Wlk.—Common. Records for i and ii.
E
. guttata Wlk.—Common. Records for i, iii, vii, viliand x. Larvae on
Lagerstruemia indica, Carissa carvandas and Zizyphus jujuba.
E. fraterna Moore—Common. Records for ii, iv and v.
E. plana W1k.—Uncommon. Records fori and x.
E. discinota MIoore—Uncommon. Recorded in xii only.
E. scintillans Wlk.—Very common. Records for i, iii, viii, ix, x, xi and xii.
Larvae on many shrubs and also on Sunflower. Now Porthesia.
Porthesia xanthorrhoea Koll.—Common. NRecords for vii, ix and xi.
Larvae on Lagerstroemia indica, also recorded on maize, Jowar and
other Monocotyledons.
Perina nuda F.—Common, the males fly by day and the females come to
light. Recorded for all months of the year. Larvae on Fzcus spp.
Leucoma submarginata Wlk.—Common. Recorded for i, x, xi and xii. I
have two unnamed Leucoma species from larvae found on Lagerst-
roemta tlos-reginae.
ARCTIIDAE
Hypsa paphos F,—A single male in ii. Now Asofa.
H. caricae Bsd.—Common. Records for i to iv and ix to xii. Larvae on
Ficus spp. Now Asota.
H. ficus F—Common. Recorded from v to ix. Larvae on Ficus spp.
Now Agazais.
Digama hearseyana Moore—Not uncommon. Recorded for x only.
D. insulana Fld.—A single female in ii.
D. marchali Guer.—A single female in x.
Spilosoma obliqua Wlk.—Common, records for i, ii, iv, ix, x, xi and xil.
Larvae on numerous low plants. Hampson’s dalbe:giae Moore isa
form of this species, with yellow abdomen instead of red.
Pericallia ricini F,—Common. Recorded from iv to xi. ati om ty
iS peti: S&S eetees dure i
4 a oy @ } cry Jaipur Dhol weirs
a ates le
ew, Jodhpur RE Se?
L Legare ¢
} a f N
\ Yo * Bundi 2 at
‘\ ; a Jhalawar
\ Erinpura y¢/ Se = Org:
Na raya “ud ® » ct Kota \
t 2» ge . J ( (J
wv § Udaipur : +
@ M. * quadrifolia L, ee NG heat
a tA, ) cid
M. minuta L, ¢ j :
QDungarpur /
qb M. aegyptica Willd, ERs nadara
M. ballardi Gupta. NI
Text Fic. 8. Maps of India and Rajasthan showing the distribution of genus
Marsilea as far as known to the authors.
432 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL VAHIST: SOCIEIYS \Volio3
of the sporocarps, the plants become tufted with bunches of sporo-
carps, of course, produced singly in the characteristic way
of the species (Pl. 1, fig. 1)... It is a common observation chat
amphibious forms living partly in water and partly on land usually
produce fruiting bodies under dry conditions, e.g. species of Riccia
such as R. nalans and R. fluitais. May be this shows that Marsilea
has acquired aquatic habit only secondarily.
The thin pedicel of the sporocarp arises laterally from the base of
the petiole, grows at an angle bearing the sporocarp at its end where
it becomes fully adnate to its base (Pl. 1, fig. 3). The lower horn is
absent. -The upper one is represented by a blunt one (Pl. 1, fig. 7).
The young sporocarps are densely covered with adpressed hairs (Pl. 1,
figs. 3 to 6); the older ones much less so.. As already described
(Gupta, 1955), the sporocarps are variously grooved, besides being
squarish in outline (Pl. 1, figs. 3-5); so that in section they present an
outline which may be quite characteristic of the species (Pl. 3, figs.
13 & 14). The most prominent external features of the sporocarp,
therefore, in M. aegyptiaca are its squarish outline, presence of only
one upper blunt horn, deep groove towards the ee encasing the end
part of the aadumale and prominent dorsal and ventral depressions
(Pl. 1, figs. 3-5).
Anatomy: Our observations are based on a few sections of the
adult sporocarps, the development in the young ones has not yet been
studied. Free hand as well as microtome sections (about 1o-12p. i
thickness) were cut-in-all the three important -planes-namely horizontal,
vertical transverse and vertical longitudinal as represented below
(text fig. 4).
Text Fic. 4. Diagrammatic representation of the planes in which the sporocarp
has been cut for anatomical studies.
The anatomy of the peduncle is. similar to the petiole, although
its vascular supply arises in the manner of a pinna trace from the
petiole. It may be a modified fertile segment of the leaf or similar
to the whole leaf, more probably the former. In Marsilea aegyptiaca
the inner cortex of the peduncle is not only thick-walled but much
wider than is usually found in other species (Pl. 2, fig. 12). _The
. INDIAN MARSILEAS; THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC. 433
vascular bundle of the peduncle passes into. the sporocarp without
showing any sign of a branch or a hump for the horn. After giving
two opposite branches on its entry into the sporocarp, this vascular
trace of the peduncle gives out branches alternately. and the latter
in turn divide and anastomose to supply the entire wall of the
sporocarp. Vascular supply is further given out from the ultimate
branches to the placentae of the sori. The main vascular bundle of
the sporocarp in transverse section shows the xylem typically arranged
like a V resembling that of a leaf trace bundle of the ferns and shows
an adaxial folding of the spore bearing organ of Marsilea.
There are usually four sori present in the sporocarps (PI. 3,
fig. 14); but the occurrence of five (Pl. 3, fig. 13) or six is not un-
common. This number is probably the lowest recorded for any
species of Marsilea, there being six present. in. M. brachycarpa.
There is, therefore, a clear reduction seen in M. cegyptiaca in this
respect. The entire mucilaginous mass with the placenta and the sori
was removed from the sporocarp for observation and it was found
that the distribution and development of both mega- and _ micro-
sporangia in the sorus seems somewhat advanced. The truly gradate
nature is somewhat disturbed. Not only this but the distribution and
number of mega- and micro-sporangia in a sorus is indefinite. It
was not possible to establish clearly the ratio between the number of
micro-sporangia and mega-sporangia present in a sorus. It is interest-
ine, therefore, to observe a reduction in the number of sori approaching
Pilularia on the one hand and development of the sorus with irregular
arrangement of the sporangia, an advanced feature, on the other.
The horizontal section (Pl. 3, figs. 13-15) shows clearly the right
groove and the dorsal and ventral depressions; the left groove which
TExT Fic. 5. Outlines of mega- and micro-spores of Marstlea aegyptiaca from
Jodhpur. a, megasporangium (S=stalk, SP.W.=sporangial wall, S.W.=spore wall);
b, single megaspore; c, microspores. x 40.
is shallow is here occupied by the peduncle seen in transverse section.
There are four or five sori, each sorus with micro- and mega-sporangia
in advanced: state of development (Pl. 3, fig. 16). The vascular
434 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. o3
bundles constituting the net work of veins have been transversely cut
towards the inner side of the wall of the sporocarp. The thick walls
of the sporocarp formed by the prismatic cells have been prominently
brought out in a photograph (Pl. 3, fig. 15) taken under poiarised
light. This section being the same as fig. 14 on the same plate taken
under ordinary transmitted light. When the horizontal section passes
through the wall of the sporocarp only, it reveals the behaviour of the
main vascular bundle quite clearly as described above.
The vertical longitudinal section on the other hand will pass
through either two or three sori of the sporocarp depending upon the
number of sori present in the two halves of the sporocarp. Not
only this, it passes generally either through the micro- or the mega-
sporangia only. And the vertical transverse section will invariably
pass through two sori and may show both the micro- and mega-
sporangia in section. Mega- and micro-sporangia in advanced state
of development are shown in fig. 16 on PI. 3. The whoie of the
mega-sporangium is filled with a single thick-walled megaspore
whereas the micro-sporangium is full of numerous microspores. The
megaspores and microspores are drawn in text fig. 5.
SYSTEMATICS OF INDIAN SPECIES
It may be mentioned at the outset that systematics of Marsilea is
a neglected subject. Since the revision of the genus by R. Braun
(1870) and later by Baker (1887) or Bossier (1834) there has been no
real attempt to classify the 60 or 70 species of Marsilea properly. The
following ten species of Marsilea have been recorded from the sub-
continent of India, but their authenticity needs a careful checking.
Their distribution as far as known has heen shown in the accompany-
ing maps of India and Rajasthan.
1. M. minuta L. India, etc.
2. M. quadrifolia L. N. India.
3. M. condensata Bak. Sind.
4. M. gracilenta A. Br. India.
5. M. brachycarpa A. Br. Pegu.
6. M. coromandelica Burm. India, etc.
7. M. brachypus A. Br. S. India.
8. M. poonensis Kolh. Bombay and Poona.
9g. M. aegyptiaca Willd. Jodhpur and ‘Ajmer.
10. M. ballavdii Gupta. Ajmer.
All these species except Marsilea poonensis and M. bullardi are
mentioned in Christensen’s ‘Index Filicum’ (1934). Baker in his
revision, however, considers that in India there are only four well-
defined species; of course, excluding M. aegyptiaca Willd. and AV.
poonensis Kolh. which have been reported after his revision. He
considers M. gyvracilenta A. Br., M. brachycarpa A. Br. and M.
byachypus A, Br., which were created by Braun in 1870, as only
INDIAN MARSILEAS: THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC. 435,
varieties of M. minuta L. At the same time he created a new species
known as M. condensata on the material collected by Dalzell from
Sind (India). Sadebeck (1g02), however, considers this new species
of Baker as only a variety of M. aegyptiaca Willd.
It may be noticed that Baker in his revision did not recognise
M. quadrifolia L. as a distinct Indian species; but in turn mentions
M. quadrifoliata and this is regarded by Sadebeck (1902) as a variety
of M. minuta L. So that the position of M. quadrijolia as a distinct
species of India was thrown in doubt by the studies of these authors.
Mr. F. Ballard who has so kindly identified some of the authors’
collections recognises M. quadrifolia as a distinct Indian species.
It is evident from this brief indication that the systematic position
of the ten Indian species mentioned in the beginning needs careful
checking. Our investigation embodied in the present paper tells us
that better methods of identifying and delimiting the species should
be explored and the species well defined. As wil! be seen from our
brief study of the ’gyptian species from Jodhpur, the structure of the
sporocarp seems to provide features of real diagnostic value. An
attempt has been made in this paper io tabulate as clearly as possible
the known structural features found in the sporocarps of most of the
Indian species. These characters have been noted in the accompanying
Table II.
On the whole it is seen that the ten Indian species look distinct
from one another, although there is an overlapping of characters; for
instance there may be some justification for Baker to consider M.
gracilenta A. Br. and M. brachypus as varieties of M. minuta L. on
the basis of his examination of the pedicels of the sporocarps and their
attachment to the petiole. but other characters which are also of
diagnostic value seem different in W. gracilenta and M. brachypus. At
the same time Baker's determination of M. brachycarpa A. Br. as a
variety of M. minula L. can hardly be justified as is evident from the
grouping of the sporocarps in the former generally in twos as against
threes in the latter, their attachment of the sporocarps to the pedicels
and also from the number of the sori in their sporocarps, there being
only six in M. brachycarpa A. Br. and 10 to 12 in M. iminuta. (et
Similarly, if we had the advantage of fuller data on the species
M. gracilenta A. Br. and M. brachypus, perhaps it would be possible
to argue that there was some justilication for creating these two
new species by Braun. The known characters noted in the table
above for the two species seem to prove almost conclusively the ©
dissimilar nature of their sporocarps. The usefulness and systematic
importance of the structural features in sporocarps for diagnosis is
therefore clear. |
Let us now examine Table I (pp. 436-7) to see if it is possible to
distinguish one species from another or a group of species from another
group on any single character or a set of characters of the sporocarp.
It is seen that the relation of pedicel to petiole is an important and
fairly well-defined single character noticeable in Marsilea, on the
436
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
TABLE
MORPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF SPOROCARPS
Disposition | Relation of | Relation of | Shape and
S. No Species of Pedicel to Pedicel to | Size
Sporocarps Petiole Pedicel | (in length)
|
1. |W. minuta L. | Generally 3, | At the base Slightly Bean-shaped, com-
sometimes 2; connate or} -pressed, ribbed
rarely free and bordered
solitary 1/10”
2 = LV guadrifolia IEqg | Alto) 33, Adnate Connate for | Oval, sub-compress-
. rarely about half. ed rarely margin-
solitary theirlength| ed, not ‘ribbed
1/15” to 1/3”
M. condensata Bak. | In tuits, may! At the base | Sub-orbicular 1/8”
be solitary
M. gracilenta At the base | Slightly Not ribbed. More
De5ii44 A.-Br. _ connate or or less rectan-
free - gular compressed
MM. bvachycarpa _ | Generally 2 Adnate S eae | Circular, wrinkled
~ ANG BRR ; ' or ribbed. 1/7164
| 2. coromandelica _| Solitary ‘| At the base Bean-shaped oval.
Burm, | : a” F Sab:
|. brachypus 2to3 Atthebase | Slightly | Rounded bat ‘not
5 deNe ENR | "| ~ eontiate er | ~~ bordered, distinct-
Pes Sean a ; . free | - ly ribbed. 3/16”
_ |W. poonensis Kolh. | Generally 2 |Atthe base | Slightly Pod-like oval, simu-
sometimes 3 connate | lating bi-convex
developed lens. 1/8”-1/5”
acropetally ribbed ia
9, | WM. aegyptiaca Solitary At the base Squarish 1/12”-
Willd. W/O Ms
19. | JZ. dallardii Gupta | One, two At the base | Free or oquarish 2”,
three or connate
more
|
}
ET TS RT TS a eT A ETI SE TNT TI TT ST SLT TT TT
-INDIAN MARSILEAS: THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC: - 43?
{I
IN THE INDIAN SPECIES OF MARS/LEA lL.
|
Size ratio : | Attachment | Number and Sorell
Pedicel: | Wall-surface | of Pedicel to | Nature of NaGo rs Remarks
Sporocarp | Sporocarp | Horns | id |
|
2:1or |Strigose or | Partially 2, upper longer 10-12 | Prominent dorsa
38 2 glabrous adnate | Suture is present
, on the sporocarp.
{
|
2: 1lor |Strigose Partially 2, almost similar 16-20 | Pedicels decurved
ga adnate : and ascending.
| | |
% 8 Al | Densely silky| Fully adnate?| Very obscure ca. 10 | Pedicels stiffly
| haired upper one erect,
1:lor | Hairs erect Fully adnate | 2, upper blunt, -, || Pedicels erect.
CEES | ‘ lower obscure
23 3 | Hairy | Fully adnate , 2, similar blunt | 6 | Pedicels horizonta\.
| |
6:1 or |Strigose (?) | Partially 2, almost similar _as...../Pedicels somewhat
Des) Bal : .. adnate and prominent descending.
2/3:1 .}Long -erect.| Fully adnate | 2, -upper 7? | Pedicels horizontal
hairs prominent ‘ or steeply bent
; _ downwards from
i‘ the stalk.
2:3or | Strigose | Fully adnate |Only upper and) 10-14 | Pedicels reflexed,
1:1 , | prominent
38) Bae Silky haired Fully adnate | Bluntly pointed 4-6 |Pedicels erect ;
te upper one Sporocarps pro-
minently grooved,
23 i Strigose Fully adnate | Upper one pointed| 6-8 |Pedicels_ erect ;
: without grooves
or depressions.
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 98 es
wd! AN. MARSILEAS: THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC.
436
Pa 437
TABLE II
MoRPHOLOGICAL FEATURES OF SeoROCARRS
: IN THE INDIAN SPECIES OF MARS/LEA L
ee ar 2
¢ j ee
Disposition Relation of Ren of | Shape and Size ratio :
S. No. Species of Pedicel to edicel to | Size ae Attachment | Ni |
Sporocarps Petiole Pedicel | (in length) epedicel Wall-surface | of Pedicel to j Nats ae | Soral
a= | intial ‘a Sporocarp Sporocarp | Horns Number | Remarks
|
|
1, | M. minuta L. | Generally 3, |At the base | Slightly Bean-shaped, com- Sol 4 7
| sometimes 2} connate or| pressed, ribbed ees |Strigose or | Partially Dapperila |
| rarely free and bordered VG glabrous adnate a meen 10-12 | Prominent dorsa
\ solitary 1/10” | | suture is present
i |) es the sporocarp.
2, -| M. quadrifolia L. |2 to3, Adnate Connate for | Oval, sub-compress- 2:1or_ |Stri |
rarely about half | ed rarely margia- , ne ta | Strigose Partially 2, almost simil R
solitary theirlength) ed, not tribbed s | adnate milar | 16-20 | Pedicels decurved
1/15” to 1/3” | and ascending.
|
3, | AL condensata Bak. In tuits, may | At the base ae Sub-orbieular 1/8" 2:1 Densely silk
be solitary me sely silky} Fully adnate?| Vi
haired ery obscure ca. 10 | Pedi “i
upper one ai as sey:
4, | 40. gracilenta oes At the base | Slightly Not ribbed, More l:lor |Hai |
"A..Br. connateor}| or less rectal 2:3 As airs erect -| Fully adnate | 2, upper blu
free gular compressed atawan ea «. | Pedicels erect.
z |
5, | M. brachycarpa Generally 2 | Adnate Connate Circular, wrinkled 2:1 H rE | i
Br. or ribbed, 1/16” airy Fully adnate ) 2, similar blunc 6 Pedicels hori:
jorizonta\.
6, .| Af. coromandelica _\ Solitary At the base Bean-shaped oval. 6: i or leet :
Burm. 7 hi abe | Strigose (?) | Partially | 2, almost similar Pedi
: | ' adnate and prominent “o ce aapennat
7,..|M. brachypus 2to3 At the base | Slightly Rounded but not 2/331 Lea
A. Br. af connate or |~~ bordered, distinct: ne erect | Fully adnate | 2, - upper 7 Dadi
> | free Ney ribbed. 3/16 airs prominent Pt ae)
| = ly bent
| | , ‘ - downwards from
8, | J. poonensis Kolb. Generally 2 | At the base Slightly | Pod-like oval, simu- 2:30r | Stri the stalk.
sometimes 3 connate | lating bi-conves 1:1 oe Fully adnate | Only upper and} 10-14 i
developed lens. 1/8"-1/5 BroMiene -14 | Pedicels reflexed,
acropetally ribbed
9, | M. aegyptiaca Solitary At the base ae Squarish 1/12" 33:1 r :
Willd. 1/10” Silky haired | Fully adnate} Bluntly pointed 4-6 | Pedicels
erect ;
upper one sporocarps oa
10. | Df. ballardii Gupta One, two At the base | Free or Squarish 4”. 2:1 Stri : minently grooved,
three or connate 1088, Fully adnate | Upper onepointed| 6-8 | Pedicels
erat erect ;
| ix without grooves
or depressions.
ee eS eS as
438 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
basis of which these ten Indian species can be segregated as follows
(text fig. 6).
TExT Fi1G. 6. Diagrammatic representation of the attachment of the pedicel to
petiole in the genus Marsilea with special reference to Indian species.
Relation of Pedicel to Petiole
Pedicel adnate Pedicel basai
M. quadrifolia L. All other species
| pL
connate or free. solitary.
M. minuta L. 1. M. aegyptiaca Willd.
M. brachypus A. Br. 2. M. coromandelica Burm.
M. brachycarpa A. Br. 3. M. condensata Bak.
. graciienta A. Br.
M. poonensis Kolh.
M. ballardi Gupta.
}
Sporocarps more than one, Sporocarps
}
|
Own po Ww
s
This idea is also in conformity with Baker. He has also given
great importance to this character in defining various groups of
Marsilea; but he has not taken into consideration other features of the
sporocarps in delimiting the various species of Marsilea. For instance
he considers M. brachypus, M. brachycarpa and M. gracilenta as only
varieties of M. minuta; probably noticing only the characters of the
pedicels. If this character alone is considered as of diagnostic value,
M. poonensis will have to be described as a variety of M. minuta. But
it should not be so unless other characters also point in the same
direction. Even a single character like the number of sori in the
peer may be an important argument against Baker's method
of delimiting the species.
Our information on Mursilea gracilenta is poor, yet unribbed nature
of the sporocarps, smaller size of the pedicels as compared to the size
INDIAN MARSILEAS: THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC. 439
of the sporocarps and erect hairs on the sporocarps provide features
distinct enough for separating it from M. minuta. Sadebeck too
thinks of M. gracilenta as a distinct species.
The systematic position of M. brachycarpa and M.brachypus with
reference to M. minutu or their relationship between themselves must
also be considered doubtful for the present. This is due to the
deficiency of materiai and information available to us on the subject,
although it seems that Marsilea brachypus is more related to iM.
minuta than M, brachycarpa. In fact, we find that M. poonensis
resembles much more closely M. minuta than either of the species
created by Braun and described above, or any other Indian species.
The only difference that appears as of distinguishing nature between
these two latter species is the size of the pedicel and the nature of
the horn. Further, Mr. Baliard of the Kew Herbarium had identified
this material of Marsilea from Poona as a new species in 1938.
Although a clear diagnosis of the species has not yet been published
in spite of its detailed description (1937), we feel that on further
examination it may turn out to be only a variety of M. minuta.
The other group of Indian Marsileas with solitary sporocarps seems
well defined. Baker’s identification of Dalzell’s Marsilea from Sind
a
Text FIG. 7. Outlines of sporocarps of M. aegyptiaca (a & b Prescott coll. from
Astrakhan; d Figari coll. from upper Egypt; e Gupta coll. from Jodhpur.) and
M,. condensata (c Dalzell coll. from Sind.) for comparison, kindly drawn by Mr.
=
F. Ballard from herbarium sheets at Kew, London.
9
446 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
as a new species, M. condensata, seems justified and Sadebeck’s idea of
considering the same as only a variety of M. uegypliaca (1902) does
not seem to hold good for it is clear that sporocarp in M. cendensaiu
is much larger in size and differs in shape from M. aegypliaca (text
fig. 7 drawn by Mr. Ballard). Besides, the sporocarp in M. condensata
is densely covered with silky hairs, possesses a less prominent horn
and contains ro sori instead of only four, five or six of M. aegyptiaca.
M. coromandelica too seems quite distinct from the other two species in
this group, for it possesses a much larger pedicel! as compared with the
size of its sporocarp; in fact, the pedicel and sporocarp ratio in
this species is quite different from the rest of the Indian species.
Besides, this species is characterised by diferent type of leaves
namely in having pellucid streaks in the areolae of the leaves (Baker
1887). Our knowledge, however, of this species is also deficient in
many respects.
Thus, it appears that the ten Indian species may be regarded as
distinct from each other for the present, and final opinion deferred till
further data are collected on the structure of the sporocarps by examina-
tion of the original material. It may, however, be useful to investigate
some other details in the vegetative structures of these doubtful species ;
for instance, the orientation of the stomata, the distribution of ihe
stomata, and the size of the stomata, in the leaves; detailed information
on the size and shape of hairs on diiferent organs of the plant and
even minute examination of the internal anatomy of their vegetative
organs; so that these may provide subsidiary data for definite determina-
tion of the identity of these species.
DISCUSSION
The TOrpaeloey of the leaf aswell as the sporocarp in Marsilea
has been a matter of discussion among botanists. The present leaf
is no doubt a reduced structure, seers from the once pinnate leat,
and so also the sporocarp modified from some part of that leaf.
Again the petiole of the leaf and the peduncle of the sporocarp may
or may not be homologous but structurally they are organised on a
similar plan: one ends into the so called leaflets and the other in the
sporocarp. Whether the latter represents the former organs and is
comparable to the whole leaf or only the distal portion and represents
only some parts of the leaf cannot be easily settled. Our work on
the morphology of M. aegypliaca is yet incomplete but trom what we
have noticed, it seems difficult to reconcile, for instance, with the
statement: ‘If the sori are marginal in this sense they should have
obtained their vascular supply from the intersoral bundles rather than
from the commissurals, (Puri and Garg 1953).
Marsilea uegyptiaca produces a solitary sporocarp. Its position
with reference to the petiole is definitely lateral, its vascular supply
arises in the manner of a pinna trace and resembles the anatomy
of the petiole. There is, therefore, no doubt about its foliar nature.
From what part of the leaf it gets modified is a matter that has been
a long debated question. Braun and Goebel considered this as
modified from a single leaflet but the sporocarps formed artificially by
Biisgen from Site. leaflets were always abnormal. Chrysler thought
INDIAN MARSILEAS; THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC, 41
that the sporocarp represents two fused lateral basal pinnae. Some
others have compared the structure in Marsilea with Botrychium and
Ophioglossum. The double vascular supply in the latter as compared
with a single trace in Marsilea, however, should rule out this possi-
bility.
Johnson on the other hand based his conclusions on develop-
mental studies and showed that the peduncle and sporocarp are
equivalent to the petiole and the capsule of Marsilea is only a swollen
end of the petiole in which the marginal cells instead of forming the
leaflets produce the sporangia. Busgen holds quite contrasting views
and says that the peduncle is similar to the petiole only and leaflets modify
themselves into the sporocarp. ‘This is supported by similar anatomical
structures of both the petiole and the peduncle and similar venation
of the leaflets and the sporocarp, there being only a difference in
degree. There are two strong vascular bundles in the sporocarp
whereas four in the leaflets. The sporocarp may really represent only
two leaflets, the other two having been lost and may be represented
by the two horns. ‘The observations of Mahabale and Gorgi (1948)
in the production of horns in place of proximal leaflets in M.
quadrifolia seem to support this conclusion. Further in M,. quadri-
folia and M. aegyptiaca sometimes only two leaflets are produced
(text fig. 8) in the adult plant as an abnormal feature, resembling the
normal state of affairs in the allied genus Regnellidium diphyllum.
The structure of the sporocarps in the two cases is also essentially
similar.
a
a A -
’ t t
eo \ &
\? fe
Zz A
Text Fic. 8. Abnormal leaves of Marsilea. M. quadrifolia (a-g) after Mahabale
and Gorgi; M. hirsuta (h) after Biisgen; M. aegyptiaca (j & k) and a normal leaf
vf Regnellidium diphyllum (i) for comparison (Diagrammatic).
442 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIS7. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The vascular supply of Pulularia sporocarp is also somewhat
similar to a four-parted leaf of Marsilea. Not only this, the reduction
in the number of sori as seen in M. aegyptiaca is such as to approach
Pilularia. ‘The latter certainly represents a more reduced type among
the Marsileaceae with its bladeless petiole, recalling the earliest
juvenile condition of the leaf in Marsilea (Pl. 1, fig. 2). Marsilea
uegyptiaca producing twe leaflets, though as an abnormal feature, in
absence of the lower horn without any trace of its vascular supply
(absence of vascular hump) and finally showing reduction
number of sori, becomes the most reduced species in the
Marsilea and comes closer to both Regnellidium and Pilularia.
The sporocarp of Marsilea is probably modified from the two distal
leaflets, the proximal ones being represented by the horns. There is
not much doubt that the original leaf of Marsilea must have been a
pinnate structure of some type.
iti the
genus
SUMMARY
A brief account of the occurrence of Marsilea aegypliaca Willd.
in Kajasthan was published by the senior author only in last April
(Gupta, 1955). It shows the usual ecological variations in its
vegetative parts that are found in the genus Marsilea and during dry
seasons the sub-terrestrial plants produce sporocarps very protusely,
giving the plarts a tufted appearance. ‘Lhe sporocarps are borne
singly and distinctly at the nodes and at the base of the petioles. ‘The
shape of the sporocarp is very characteristic It 1s squarish in out-
line, variously grooved and possessing a single upper horn which is
somewhat blunt. It usually contains only tour sori- but sometimes
five or six are also present. This number is the smallest among the
species of Marsilea and is approached only in M. brachycarpa among
the Indian types. In general morphology and anatomy of the vegeta-
tive parts, the plant appears more or less similar to other species,
Indian or foreign; but the structure of the sporocarp shows soine
interesting features in its organization.
An attempt has been made to review, if not ‘exactly revise, the
systematic position of the Indian species on the basis of the characters
of the sporocarp and it has been shown how our common species can
now be easily identified. The morphological nature of the vegetative
parts as well as the sporocarp, a subject of theoretical importance,
has also been dealt with briefly in the concluding part of the paper.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We are. greatly indebted to Sir E. J. Salisbury and Mr. F. Ballard,
the Director and the Peteridologist respectively of the Royal Botanic
Gardens, Kew, for identification of the Indian species and clarifying
various points of systematic, nature that arose during the course of
the work. To them we are also grateful for some material of
Marsilea aegyptiaca Willd. from their original collections at Itew and
for the camera lucida drawings of the sporocarps of M. aegyptiaca
and M. condensala. Our thanks are due to Prof, A. H. Montasir,
Ibrahim University of Cairo, for some Egyptian material of Marsilea
INDIAN MARSILEAS; THEIR MORPHOLOGY, ETC. | 443
aegyptiaca. We express our gratefulness to Dr. K. P. Biswas and
Mr. R. S. Rao formerly of the Calcutta Herbarium for help as well! as
for the facilities provided us to work in the herbarium during the
Christmas holidays. Yo Prof. G. G, Kolhatkar of Fergusson College,
Poona, we are indebted for the material of M. p2onensis; to Dr.
T. S. Mahabale of Poona University, Dr. P. N. Mehra of the Panjab
University, Dr. A. R. Rao of the Lucknow University and Prof.
P. Maheshwari of the Delhi University our respectfui thanks are due
for advice and references. For the entire work of photography in
connection with this investigation, we are extremely obliged to Dr.
S. Venkatachary and Prof. K. P. Rode who provided us with full
facilities in their respective laboratories at Maharana College, Udaipur.
Prof. B. Tyagi of Government College, Ajmer, gave us all help in
collecting M. aegyptiaca locally and its study in his laboratory. We
are indebted to Mr. A. H. G. Alston of the British Museum, London,
for photographs of the type specimens of some Indian species preserved
in Berlin.
It is our pleasure to record the assistance given us by the
ministerial staff of the Botany Department, Jaswant College, Jodhpur
during the preparation of the manuscript.
REFERENCES
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Bhardwaj, T. N. (1955): Some Ecological observations on Marsilea aegyptiaca
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Bossier, (?). (1884): ‘Flora Orientalis’, 5.
Bower, F. O. (1923-28): The Filicales. Vol. I, Vol. II, Vol. III.
— — — (1908): Origin of a Land Flora.
— — — (1935): Primitive Land Plants.
Braun, A. (1870): Revision of the genus Marsilea. Monats. Kon. Akad. Wiss.
Berl. S. 653 ff.
Biisgen, M. (1890) : Untersuchungen tiber normale und abnormale Marsilienfruchte,
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Campbell, D. H. (1888) : Einige Notizen uber die Keimung von Marsilia aegyptiaca.
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Copeland, E. B. (1947): ‘Genera Filicum’. Waltham, U.S.A.
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Goebel, K. (1918): ‘Organographie’, 2 te. Aufl. ii. Teil. 1134. UN
Gupta, K. M. (1955): On the occurrence of M. aegyptiaca Willd. in Jodhpur,
Rajasthan (India). JBNHS 52: 954-956.
— — — (1955): A new species of Marsilea, M. ballardii, sp. nov. Gupta from
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Haines, H. H. (1924): The Botany of Bihar and Orissa. VI. 1217-19.
Johnson, D. S. (1898): On the leaf and sporocarp of Marsilea quadrifolia. Ann.
Bot. 12: 119-145. :
Kolhatkar, G. G. (1937): Life-history of Marsilea species from Poona. Jour.
Univ. Bomb. 5: 19-37.
— — — (1940): A new species of Marsilea from Poona (M. poonensis). Proc.
27th Indian Sci. Congr. 132.
Mahabale, T. S. & Gorji, G. H. (1948): Some observations on the sporelings and
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444 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Mehra, P. N. (1938): Abnormal sporocarps in M. minuta L. Proc. Indian Acad.
Sci. viii Sec. B. 8-10.
Puri, V..& Garg, M._L. (1953) : A contribution to the anatomy of the sporocarp
of M. minuta L. with a discussion of the nature of sporocarp in the Marsileaceae.
Phytomorphology. 8: 190-209.
Russow, E. (1872): Vergleichende Untersuchungen betreffend die Histologie
(Histiographie und Histiogenie) der vegetativen und sporenbildenden Organe und die
Entwicklung der Sporen der Leitbundel-Kryptogamen, mit Berticksichtigung der
Histologie der Phanerogamen ausgehend von der Betrachtung der Marsiliaceen. Mem.
Acad. Imp. Sc. St-Petersb., Ser. VII, xix. I.
Sadebeck, R. (1902): Planzenfamilien, Teil I, Abt. 403.
Smith, G. M. (1955): ‘Cryptogamic Botany’. II.
Williams, R. G. (1921); The anatomy and morphology of Marsilea, Thesis, Cornell
University.
EXPLANATION OF PLATES 1-3
Plate 1, figs. 1-6.
Fic. 1. Marsilea aegyptiaca Willd. A single specimen showing tufted nature.
ca. natural size.
Fic. 2. Same. Showing the development of leaves from juvenile to the adult
form, slightly reduced.
Fic. 3-5. Same. Single sporocarp in three different views: 38, showing fully
adnate stalk and ventral depression; 4, dorsal depression and upper blunt horn; 5,
right groove and adpressed hairs. x 9.
Iic, 6. Same. Multicellular hairs with their pointed end cells and mosaic pattern
of the wall of the sporocarp. x 70.
Plate 2, figs. 7-12.
Fic. 7. Marsilea aegyptiaca Willd. T. S. of the sub-terrestrial leaf showing organi-
sation of its tissues and stomata on both sides. x 200.
Fic. 8. Same. Upper epidermis with stomata and sinuous epidermal cells of a |
sub-terrestrial plant. x 200.
Fic. 9. Same. T. S. of the rhizome showing a typical amphiphloic siphonostele
with sclerotic pith characteristic of a sub-terrestrial plant. x 65.
Fie. 10. Same. T. S. of a root showing a diarch stele with thick walled broad
inner cortex. x 75.
Fic. 11. Same. T. S. of a petiole showing characteristic features. x 40.
Fic. 12. Same. T. S. of the stalk of the sporocarp showing a broad thick walled
inner cortex. x 100.
Plate 3, figs. 13-17.
Fic. 13. Marsilea aegyptiaca Willd. Horizontal section of the sporocarp showing
five sori. x 20.
Fic. 14. Same. Showing the usual four sori, transversely cut V.B. of the wall
as well as the vascular supply to the sorus. Note its characteristic outline showing
its grooves and depressions. x 20.
Fic. 15. Same. Under polarized light. x 20.
Fic. 16. Same. Showing well developed mega- and micro-sporangia. x 100.
Fic. 17. Same. Photograph of one of the specimens collected by J. Schweinfurth
from Tel-el-kabir, Lower Egypt in 1880 from Kew (London). x 2.
PLATE 1
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Yi
YELL
age
ae,
Wty
NSS
E
SSSA
VGCEGE({s
BSS
y
y
*
dA.
x Reduce
j
j
|
|
s 1-6.
igure
F
(For explanation see end of article)
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc. PLATE 2 —
LEER BEN IEEE ERE BROLIN SES Q GG Wo vyrYyrRGdK{ NW WwFE
Figures 7-12.
(or explanation see end of article)
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Ss
LONE
Lo
SS
.,
—
Figures 13-17.
(For explanation see end of article)
IN MEMORIAM
SUNDER LAL HORA
(With a plate)
To most of us associated with the activities of the various scientific
organizations of the country, and latterly of the Indian Board for
Wild Life, the news of the death of Dr. Sunder Lal Hora, which
occurred on 8th December 1955, has, come as a grievous shock, and
to the many who knew him more intimately as the realization of the
loss of a dear friend.
This loss is all the more poignant when one’s personal bond with
him dating back to over three decades is irrevocably snapped by the-
cruel hand of death. There appears a tragic touch in it when I recall
the circumstances of our meeting in my house in May last under the
shadow of a bereavement afflicting me. Dr. Hora immediately on his
return from Madras, where he had gone to attend the All-India Zoo
Superintendents’ Conference, hurried to bring to me, with his over-
flowing kindliness, solace and comfort in my sorrow due to the loss
of my son who happened to be a distinguished pupil of his and asso
ciated with him in his researches. Alas, what an irony of fate that
before a half-year had ended he himself was to be no more!
My earliest contact with Hora was in 1923, when at the request
of Col. R. B. Seymour Sewell, the then Director, I undertook the worl<
of rearrangement and overhauling of the bird collection of the
Zoological Survey of India. For quite a number of years thereafter
I was a regular visitor to the Indian Museum, and after the day’s
work when I had to pass by his room a broad smile from Hora would
welcome me in and we seldom failed to beguile ourselves in each other’s
company for a while. We had a common meeting ground in the hall
of the Asiatic Society as well, and my countryhouse with its extensive
fish tank and aviary was always a centre of great attraction for him,
which he made into a relaxing holiday resort.
Hora, who began his research career in t917 at the age of 22, was
recruited to the Zoological Survey of India as a research scholar in
1919 and appointed an Assistant Superintendent in 1921. While still
a student at the Government College, Lahore, he discovered the presence
of Haversian Canals in the limb bones of Fkana and discussed the
homologies of Weberian Ossicles of Labeo rohita. His work on the
fish and fisheries of India earned him the D.Sc. of the Punjab University
in 1922, and in 1928 his studies on the ecology, bionomics and evolution
of torrential fauna with special reference to the organs of attachment
secured him the D.Sc. of the Edinburgh University. For a period of
five years (1942-47) he was Director of Fisheries of undivided
Bengal, coming back then to the Zoological Survey of India as its
Director, which post he held till his death.
A believer in hard work, his output of scientific literature was
prodigious ; he published some 400 papers on various subjects in many
foreign and Indian journals, including the pages of the Journal of the
446 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Bombay Natural History Society. To celebrate the Silver Jubilee of
his first scientific contribution his numerous past students, colleagues
and admirers produced in 1951 a complete bibliography of his publica-
tions up to 1950’. The titles of his papers indicate the vast and varied
field of his activities, and the volume is a fitting monument to his
eminence and zeal as a scientific worker. He was, however, best.
known as an ichthyologist, though his contributions in other fields are
also of great importance. Primarily a systematist interested in fresh-
water fishes of the Oriental Region, he held a broad vision of this
branch of zoology and his papers are full of interesting observations
on the ecology and bionomics of the fishes he studied.His taxonomic
work, especially on the hill-stream fishes, led him to probe into the
problem of the changing river systems of India due to Himalayan
tectonic movements and to enunciate what is now well known as
‘Hora’s Satpura Hypothesis’, which attempts to explain the presence
of Malayan elements in the fauna of Peninsular India.
On the applied side, his studies on the pond culture of fishes for
increasing food production have aroused world-wide interest, and in
1949, at Lake Success, he was invited by the United Nations Organisa-
tion to open a discussion on ‘Pond culture of warm water fishes’.
He was interested in the conservation of fishes of economic importance,
especially the migratory species, and made notable contributions to
our knowledge of the biology of the Indian Shad, Hilsa, which was
subsequently taken up as an international problem for intensive investiga-
tions. In 1952 he was the chairman of the Hilsa Sub-Committee of
the Indo-Pacific Fisheries Council.
Dr. Hora had always been interested in the sGautiit knowledge
possessed by ancient Hindus, especially in the field of fish and fisheries,
as revealed in Sanskrit literature and archaeological pieces such as the
edicts of Asoka and potteries of Mohenjo-Daro and Harappa. Those who
have heard him speak either in the Indian Museum or in the Asiatic
Society, Bengal, will recall the great interest he aroused in his audiences.
Essentially a student of Nature he was deeply interested in the
preservation of wild life and in the establishment of National Parks
in India. He was the first Hony. Secretary-General of the Indian
Board for Wild Life.
Dr. Hora took a lively interest in the welfare of the Bombay Natural
History Society. He was an active member of the Society’s Advisory
Committee since 1945 and his valuable advice and suggestions were
always eagerly sought and freely given.
Among the many academic distinctions conferred on him by foreiga
and Indian scientific institutions, he was the recipient of the Asiatic
Society’s ‘Joy Gobind Law Memorial Medal’ (1944), the National Geo-
graphical Society of India’s ‘Jawaharlal Nehru Medal’ (1951) and the
Zoological Society of India’s ‘Sir Dorab Tata Memorial Medal’ (1951).
By his sudden death we sadly miss a personality of noble character,
and charming courtesy endowed with great qualities of heart and mind,
an eager willingness to help, and a wide knowledge generously placed
re
a ee eee 9
* A limited number of copies of the Bibliography is still available at the
Bombay Natural History Society.
JouRN. BomBay Nat. Hist Soc.
Dr. SUNDER LAL HorA
IN MEMORIAM 4.47
at the disposal of all. For all those who, throughout the world, have
had contact with him and shared in any of his manifold interests, the
name of Sunder Lal Hora will remain as a symbol of what I should
like to term ‘biological humanism’ in the most noble sense of the
word,
S.C. LAW
Lt.-CoLt. K. G. GHARPUREY, 1.m.s. (Retd.)
We regret to announce the death of Lt.-Col. K. G. Gharpurey at
Poona on March 6, 1956, at the age of 76. Col. Gharpurey was born
on July 28, 1880. He was educated at Nagpur and Calcutta, and the
Medical College at Lahore, and also attended the School of Medicine,
Edinburgh, and University College, London.
He entered the Indian Medical Service in 1906 and was posted as
Civil Surgeon in Somaliland between 109009 and 1914. In the First
World War (1914-1919) he did military duty in Africa and the Persian
Gulf, and thereafter served as Civil Surgeon in various districts of
the then Bombay Presidency, retiring as Surgeon-General in 1935.
Col. Gharpurey joined the Bombay Natural History Society in 1910,
since when his connection with it was intimate and fruitful. He was
particularly interested and specialized in the study of snakes, and the
Society constantly benefited from the valuable specimens he collected
and presented to it from the various districts where his duties took him.
He was a frequent contributor on snakes to the pages of the Journal,
the more important of his papers being:
Snakes of Sholapur: vol. 32, p. 224 (1927).
Snakes collected at Belgaum: vol. 34, p. 585 (1930).
Snakes of Nasik: vol. 34, p. 1,085 (1931).
Snakes collected in Ahmednagar: vol. 36, p. 272 (1932).
Snakes collected in Belgaum: vol. 37, p. 942 (1935).
Further list of snakes of Ahmednagar: vol. 38, p. 198 (1935).
In addition to these there are several useful notes by him from
time to time on individual variation in different species, habits, and
other aspects of snake study.
Col. Gharpurey’s interest in the Society did not end here. When
the new Natural History Wing of the Prince of Wales Museum
Bombay, was being planned he made a special donation of Rs. 5,000
to the Society to be utilized for the exhibition gallery of reptiles. The
beautiful habitat group of the Malayan Python and many of the smaller
snake groups, as also the superb anatomical scale-models for students
in the Museum’s Reptile Gallery, are abiding memorials to the deep
interest he cherished in the subject and to his public-spirited generosity.
The Society honoured him, and itself, by electing him a Vice-Patron
iN 1935.
Besides his papers published in the Journal, Col. Gharpurey has
to his literary credit ‘The Snakes of India’ (in English) now in its
4th edition, and the only book of its kind currently available. He
also wrote two books. in Mahratti, on ‘Snakes of Maharashtra’ and
‘Animals and Health’, which are of recognized merit and usefulness.
SA.
REVIEWS
tr THE WORLD OF SMALL ANIMALS. By T. H.. Savory.
Pp. 160 (83” x52”), 16 plates, 30 text-figures. London, 1955.
University of London Press Ltd. rss. net.
The author’s wide experience as a teacher makes available his.
intimate knowledge of Nature to students and amateur naturalists in
this very helpful guide. Though written mainly with the view of
helping beginners in Britain, it will be equally useful to students in
other parts of the World to learn the basic principles underlying the
study of any group of animals. The emphasis is on the study of
small animals, especially the obscure groups whose members, though
quite common, are still scarcely known either due to their apparent
dullness or economic unimportance.
The book is divided into two sections. In the first ten chapters
the methods of study are explained. A chapter each is devoted to
various aspects of study such as Collection, Preservation, Examuna-
tion, etc. Technical points are dealt with in simple and_ easily
understandable terms. The difficulties confronting the beginner are
fully explained. The author .lays stress on the value of field
observation, and would have his readers strive for a correct appreciation
of the value of being a naturalist as well as laboratory worker.
In the final thirteen chapters a selected number of common animals
are described in the light of the methods explained in the earlier
chapters. The value of these descriptions is much enhanced by the
beautiful photographic plates.
{.G:D?
2. THE NATURAL HISTORY OF MAMMALS. By Francois
Bourliére. Translated from the French by H. M. Parshley. Pp.
Xxi+ 3634+ xi (81” x 523”), 24 plates, 97 text-figures. London, 1955.
George G. Harrap & Co. Ltd. 21s. net.
3. MAMMALS OF THE WORLD: Their Life & Habits. By
Francois Bourliéve. Pp. 223 (114% x 84”). With 16 coloured and 216
black-and-white photographs, and numerous. text-figures. London,
1955, George (Gy Harrap c Con tda Gos. snet-
Compared with the endless stream of bird books of every descrip-
tion—from inexpensive regional brochures to sumptuous, — lavishly
illustrated tomes—that pours out from the publishers of Europe and
America, the wavering trickle of literature dealing with mammals is
truly surprising. And this despite the fact that mammals, owing to
the bizarre forms and spectacular proportions of some of them,. are
far more popular with the normal run of visitors to zoos and circuses.
Scientific or quasi-scientific interest in wild mammals is less wide-
spread than in birds chiefly because most of them are of nocturnal
habits and difficult to observe. The smaller ones conceal themselves
during the day in holes and burrows, and the larger ones in remote
REVIEWS 44,9
forest recesses, or otherwise away from the normal haunts of man,
unlike birds which permit themselves to be heard and watched, and
enjoyed and studied without any such difficulty. The important
contributions made to ornithological science by intelligent bird
watchers are not possible to the same extent with wild mammals, because
of their innate shyness and predominantly nocturnal way of life.
That the study of mammals is so much less popular with amateur
naturalists than bird-watching, is thus easy to understand. Their
field study involves far greater ingenuity, patience and perseverance ;
and the collecting of vital data is a slow, often laborious, and some-
times disappointing process. However, if any one doubts that the
forms of mammals and the study of their ways and habits can be just
as enthralling and rewarding to a student of natural history, Prof.
Bourliére’s books will bring him cerrective conviction. The first
volume, as its name signifies, is a comprehensive account of all that
concerns the living mammal. For though less numerous than the
devotees of birds, there are nevertheless a great many ardent students
of mammals working on different aspects of their morphology,
physiology, psychology and ecology, in both laboratory and field, and
in many different corners of the globe. The results of their studies are
being published in many technical as well as popular scientific journals,
in many different languages. Such papers are often widely scattered
and usually not known to, or readily available—or perhaps even
intelligible, 1o0 the non-specialist. Therefore Prof. Bourliére has
done an immense service to biology in marshalling and synthesizing
so skilfully all the more important data in this pleasantly assimilable
form. The author is primarily an ecologist, and it is refreshing to
find the emphasis throughout the book on the ecological aspect of
wild mammals—their habits, their relations with, and their adaptations
to, their: natural environment.
The book is a masterly survey of the present state of our knowledge
of the bionomics of wild mammals. It covers the following topics:
Locomotion; Food and Feeding Habits; Home, Territory, and
Home Range; Defence and Protection; Sexual Life and Reproduction ;
Development and Longevity; Migrations; Social Life; Environment;
Structure and Dynamics of Natural Populations. The section listing
the General and Special Bibliographies at the end of the book gives
some idea of the vastness of the material drawn upon, yet it is the
harmony of the synthesis that makes the book such a pleasure to read;
and its usefulness and attractiveness are enriched by the carefully chosen
photographs, and by M. Paul Barruel’s beautiful line drawings in
the text.
All in all, it is a most welcome addition to mammalian literature,
and should go a long way towards popularizing interest in a group of
animals that is closest to us, not only in the matter of structure and
genealogy, but also by their vital impact upon almost every aspect of
human activity and endeavour.
The art of wild life photography is a comparatively recent innova-
tion, made possible largely by the advances in modern photographic
apparatus of precision. Not that some very good mammal _photo-
graphs were not existent before the advent of handy high speed
cameras and film. But most of those pictures were taken in zoos and
450 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL ‘HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
showed nothing of the animal’s native environment, or of its normal
movements and actions. Moreover, while many excellent books of bird
photographs have been published, there are hardly any comparable
cnes of wild mammals in their natural surroundings. But ‘Mammals
. of the World’ is now the answer. It is a worthy companion to Paul
Barruel’s ‘Birds of the World’ published a couple of years eartier.
One appreciates that the selection of a representative lot of pictures
cannot have been an easy task, since they cover not only all continents
but also all groups of mammals, including those that live inthe sea. The
coloured photographs are attractive, but by no means the last word
in colour reproduction, whereas the 216 black-and-white ones are truly
superb, and certainly amongst the finest work of that type we have
seen. Here again we have a number of M. Barruel’s charming
text-figures in ine to illustrate some species of which satisfactory
photos were not available, and it is no exaggeration to say that they
give just the correct finishing touch to the general get-up of this
sumptuous volume and to Dr. Bourliere’s facile text. The chapter
headings will indicate the book’s coverage: What is a Mammal?;
Mammals of the Tropical Forests; The Savannah and the Desert;
Mammals of Temperate Forests and Prairies; Mammals of the Great
North; Mammals of the Mountains; Aerial and Aquatic Mammals.
These two books together provide a sound and much-needed
general survey of modern mammal study and the living mammals of
today. In their own ways they complement each other admirably,
and one could not wish for a better combination for any one who
desires to consider himself, or be considered, well-informed about
mammals. And for all who would understand the basic problems
connected with wild life conservation and devise measures of practical
value, these volumes are absolutely indispensable.
SyolA\.
4. PLANT ECOLOGY OF ARID REGIONS. Proceedings of
the Montpellier Symposium. UNESCO, 19 Avenue Kleber, Paris
(1955).
This volume contains papers by specialists from different countries
in arid zone ecology and is designed to enable the UNESCO to prepare
its arid zone research programme. The papers are grouped in four
sections—(r) Structural and physiological nature of vegetation, (2)
Climatic and ecoclimatic and hydrologic effects on vegetation, (3) Soil
and vegetation and (4) Other factors—with an introduction by Dr. LE.
Emberger. These contributions are based on summaries of the present
state of knowledge of arid zone ecology in different regions. The data
provide a useful means of comparing conditions in arid regions of the
world for the development of flora and fauna. More important than
this, they bring out the urgent problems that need to be tackled in
arid countries.
The classification of vegetation of arid zones is attempted from
different angles. H. Boykoh gives methods to classify vegetation on
climate. Pich Sermolli’s method of classification is mainly physio-
enomical. Phylogenetic method for the classification of arid zone
vegetation has also been suggested. Special studies include A,
REVIEWS 45]
Giacobbe’s paper on the ettect of Mediterranean climate on forest
communities ; the role of trace elements on vegetation by W. A. Roach;
afforestation of arid aveas by S. Ahmed. EF. R. Bharucha has given
an interesting paper on ‘structural and physiological features of the
Rajasthan mur Soil conditions in arid regions are studied by
Creme cnanclay|e Albareda. Microbiology is “described by J. Nicot,
c. C. WKilhan ae a Vargues. The entomological part is dealt with
oxy del, Je erine.
The volume will be of immense value for ecologists in South-
east Asia for the study of arid zones.
(Seo LeU
5. .A GUIDE TO THE BIRDS OF CEYLON. By G. M. Henry.
Pp. xl+432 (84x54). 30 half-tone plates (27 coloured), 124
black-and-white drawings. Oxford University Press, 1955. Ks. 25.
The geological evidence that Ceylon is a lately detached fragment
of the south Indian peninsula is fully supported by the general character
of its fauna and flora. The wet, hilly south-western parts of the Island
show close affinities with the humid portions of Travancore and Cochin,
and its drier north-eastern parts are almost identical with the country
lying on the opposite side of the shallow strait that now separates it
from the south Indian mainland.
There is evidence that at least twice after the initial separation of
Ceylon from southern India it was re-joined and again re-separated,
the final disruption being in comparatively recent times—-anything
between 109 and 25 thousand years. These periodic connections pro-
vided the land bridges over which sedentary forms of animals
immigrated from the Indian mainland. Evidence of successive ‘waves’
oer ‘invasions’ of such newcomers can be convincingly :traced in the
present-day fauna of Ceylon, particularly in its bird life which has
been critically analysed by recent investigators.
The result of thousands of years of isolation alternated by periodic
reinforcement by fresh arrivals from the mainland, the strong Malayan
element which the island shares with Travancore, and the well-marked
divisions in its physiographical features have all combined to make
the avifauna of Ceylon one of inordinate interest. It includes over
20 species of birds (6 genera) and something like 80 geographical
races peculiar to the island, in some cases further differentiated into
wet-country and dry-country forms. In the main, Ceylon races differ
from their Indian counterparts in being smaller in size and darker in
coloration, and also in the possession of heavier and/or longer bills.
This last characteristic, curiously enough, is common to island forms
‘in other parts of the world as well, but it has not been satisfactorily
explained.
Due to its geographical situation, so near the Equator, the island
possesses an equable climate, and such changes as occur in the seasons
are governed mainly by the two monsoons, SW. and NE., which
produce a wet season and a dry season in the areas under their
respective influence. In the absence of a definite summer and winter
the breeding seasons of birds are ill defined, and also seem to be
governed. largely by the monsoons.
ae JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
This brief general background will be sufficient to explain why
bird watchers in India no less than in Ceylon will welcome the long-
awaited appearance of Henry’s Guide, particularly now when there
is a marked growth of general ‘awareness’ about birds in both
countries.
The book is primarily oltered as ‘a means of identifying birds in
the field with the help mainly of illustrations and concise descriptions,
fuller in the case of some particularly interesting species’. We have
no doubt about its being able to fulfil its purpose admirably.
Henry’s established Fenueition for excellence and accuracy as a bird
artist, and his long familiarity with Ceylon birds in their native
setting are sufficient guarantees.
It is not a little surprising that the author considers the note-book
more important than binoculars as a ‘bird studying tool’. It may be just
a matter of opinion, but the reviewer feels this is rather like putting
the cart before the horse, since it is seldom that an unfamiliar bird
can be studied in sufficient detail with the unaided eye to make note-
taking worth while.
The Introduction gives a historical sketch of Ceylon ornithology
and a useful outline of the topography and vegetation of the island in
relation to its bird life. A conveniently placed glossary before the
descriptive portion, explains the technical terms and common Singhalese
names occurring in the text, and should be of great help to the
uninitiated peace
The systematic order followed is that of the Fauna of British India
and Wait’s Birds of Ceylon. This ‘anachronism’ is no doubt due to
the fact that W. W.-A. Phillips’s excellent Checklist was published
when this MS. was already with the printers. The new Checklist
follows the Wetmore arrangement which is now all. the vogue, and
claimed to be more up-to-date. While some may regret this accident
of chronology, ornithologists who have grown up with the ‘old-
fashioned’ order, in Ceylon as well as in India, will no doubt secretly
feel thankful for small mercies! , :
Many iof the author’s original observations are of great interest. For
instance, the female lore carrying. strips of the edges of green
leaves for lining her nest cavity, with one end tucked under the rump
feathers and flying off when a rumpful is collected, and the account of
the courtship display of this species are quite novel.
. The complete absence of vultures in Ceylon is difficult to understand
considering the nearness of the island to the Indian mainland and ihe
enormous cruising range and keen eyesight possessed by these birds
which must enable them to survey vast tracts of country from the air
and even to get a peep into Ceylon. Another curious anomaly is the
absence of the Common Sandgrouse, seeing that the dry country in the
north-east of the island is identical with, and practically adjoining,
the drier parts of the southern peninsula.
Some very good notes are furnished on the Ceylon Junglefowl,
including its nidification and the courtship display of the cock.
Unfortunately the question is left untouched as to whether the species
is monogamous or maintains a bevy. of hens, as for instance the peacock
does, or possibly in what has recently been termed ‘successive
polygamy’. This is still a moot question in regard to both our Indian
REVIEWS 453
species of junglefowl, and some definite information concerning’ their
next-door neighbour would have been illuminating.
The author’s remarks on the continuing deforestation of the island
for cultivation and plantations and its adverse reflection upon bird life
in general, and of the persecution for meat of all species large enough
to be worth powder and shot, are dismal reading, but not unfamiliar
in our own country. The increase of firearms, and the loosening of
religious taboos against killing are given as two of the chief factors in
the decimation of bird life to-day.
The replacement of inappropriate English bird names with more
descriptive ones is a commendable step. For example, Longtailed or
Jungle Nightjar for Horsfield’s Ceylon Highlnd Nightjar for Kelaart’s,
and Bluefaced Malkoha for Greenbilled Malkoha are certainly more
descriptive and rational.
309 of the 403 birds described in the Guide are illustrated, most of
them in colour. They are of the well-known Henry standard of
excellence, and form one of the chief features of the book. The more
sobre-coloured birds are depicted in black-and-white drawings in the
text, which are more variable in quality, some of them suffering from
rather too heavy lines.
The handy end-cover maps, showing the wet and dry zones,
orographical contours, and administrative divisions of the Island, are
of great usefulness for ready reference.
Considering the overali sameness in the bird life of Ceylon and of
the South Indian peninsula, the Guide will be found equally serviceable
by bird lovers in both the countries; and not only by bird lovers, but
it will be welcomed also by all who love well-illustrated and well-
produced ‘nature books that are a joy to handle.
Solé\
6. BUDGERIGARS FOR PLEASURE AND PROFIT. By Eric
Leyland. Pp. 156 (7” x 4$”). One black and white plate and rr line
illustrations. London, 1954. English Universities Press Ltd. 6s. net.
This is one of the series of ‘Teach Yourself Books’ and an
excellent example of how much intelligent interest can be provided by,
and work done in a hobby which to most people means little more than
just keeping ‘birds in a cage’.
Detailed instructions for suitable methods of housing budgerigars
are given, but tropical countries like India perhaps do not present the
same difficulties as in Europe. In India budgerigars are kept by
many people because they do not need much space, and are relatively
easy and inexpensive to keep. Little interest is taken here in scientific
breeding or purity of stock, and birds are available at Ks. 10 per pair
as compared with a price indication of £4 for stock birds.
These same birds can, however, be bred along more scientific lines,
and the book should prove a valuable guide to those who would try.
The diagrams and specifications of the cages are of particular
- usefulness, and Indian budgerigar fanciers wil] be enabled to derive
454. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
much more enjoyment and profit from their hobby by following the
suggestions cftered in such simple and non-technical language. It 1s
interesting to learn that a Budgerigar Society exists in England. ,
SHUMOON ABDULALI.
rie AO NNIDIDIEIISES) JUN IONISINIBSS; ANin linirocuction ito the
Study Jot ermites:s Bis 5S tog. ical Cemseal 4) exe, Anu (lisp eam ernIy)
14 plates, 4o text-figures. London, 14955. Wongmans, Green & Co.
25Sen |
This little book, which is the result of several years of careful
study, deals in a very interesting semipopular style with the biology
of the South African black-mound termite, Amuiltermes atianticus
Fuller. It is divided into fitteen chapters and is illustrated with
several well-executed black-and-white drawings and some _ good
photographs. After dealing with the methods «¢;t collection and study,
the author gives the characteristics of the workers (called the ‘slaves
of the State’) and the soldiers (called ihe ‘guardians of the citadel’).
The latter constitute only about five per cent of the adult population
of the colony, and the workers the remaining ninety-five; in addition,
there are the king and the queen and, in certain seasons, several
winged reproductives which swarm out.
‘The mound, which is dome-shaped, attains a maximum size ol
about two feet in height and two teet in diameter. The maximum
population encountered in a mound was about 40,000 adult individuals
of all castes. |
The growth of the colony, the rearing of the young ones and the
mode of copulation are then briefiy described. Copulation occurs
only after the stimulus of the nuptial flight, without which the termites
fail to pair. Several experiments were conducted on the feeding
habits and it was found that the termites prefer decayed wood te all
other types of food.
Two chapters deal with the ‘guests’ of the termite. First, with
the so-called uninvited guests such as soine smali insects which
habitually live and breed among the termite population in the nest
without any apparent let or hindrance. Secondly, with the protozoa
and bacteria which live in the alimentary canal and are believed to
assist the ‘host’ in the digestion of cellulose; the protozoan species
commonly occurring in the black-mound termite is Nyctotherus
silvestrianus.
A chapter deals briefly with the various theories of caste forma-
tion in termites, and another describes the various types of ‘observation
nests’ devised by the author for the study of living termites. At the
end there is a short bibliography of the more common books on
termites, mostly in the English language, and finally, an index.
Taken as a whole, the book is a welcome contribution not merely
to the semipopular literature on termites in general, but also to the
serious study of certain aspects of a species about which little was
hitherto ‘known. Perhaps the best sections of the book are those
dealing with the popuiation-structure of the colony, the nuptial
-processes and the food-preferences, and the weakest sections those
REVIEWS 455
concerning caste-formation and allied subjects where one wishes for
more precise information.
The get-up and the printing of the book are excellent, but the
price of 25 shillings appears to be excessive for so small a book. We
nevertheless recommend the book to all students of social insects.
M. L. ROONWAL.
8. ANTS. By Derek Wragge Morley, M.A., F.L.s. Pp. xii+179
(8” x 64”). 15 black-and-white plates, 50 line illustrations and maps,
and a key for the identification of British Ants drawn by Alison Birch.
London, 1953. Collins. The New Naturalist series. 18s. net.
How the author of this book became an authority on ants makes
a remarkable story. Protracted illness and long convalescence reduced
him as a boy of rq to lonely inactivity in a garden chair, and the living
ants around began to fascinate him. His interest grew and he started
seriously studying the subject with remarkable success. In school his
special talent was fortunately recognized and he was given opportuni-
ties to carry on what amounted to original research on ants, and at
the age of 18 he had the unique distinction of reading papers before
the 7th International Congress of Entomology at Berlin in 1935.
The first and third chapters, together about half the length of the
book, are mainly concerned with the 27 species of British Ants, with
short accounts of appearance, behaviour, habitat and food. The
appendices contain maps showing the distribution of each species in
the British Isles, as also a very useful diagrammatical key for the
identification of each species, and forms within the species. It-should
not be supposed that the book will not be of interest to readers outside
Britain. In India we who lack even a short book of Indian insects,
leave alone of ants, are thankful for such a publication which is. of
interest to the general reader anywhere. There are chapters on ‘The
Growth of the Ant and its Anatomy’, ‘Ant Guests’, ‘Experimenting
with Ants’ and ‘Collecting Ants’.
The naturalist interested in animal behaviour will find information
scattered all over the book which will fascinate him, and will probably
find the temptation irresistible {even at the risk of being shunned py
the respectable as an anthropomorphist) to see in insect behaviour
much that is of significance to our own social setup.
The varieties and aberrations of ant societies are many and
instructive. On p. 39 we read about the Thief Ant. ‘hese tiny
creatures build their minute galleries in the nests of larger ants. They
live by stealing food from their large hosts, who cannot enter the tiny
galleries and make reprisals. Look to the ant, thou sluggard !
On p. 73 one learns the depressing fact that some nests of the Blood-
red Slave-making Ant contain a large number of workers of the
Large Black Ant. These workers ‘are acquired by the Blood-red
Slave-makers by means of slave raids on the neighbouring nests of
the Large Black Ant, in which they steal the cocoons of the Large
Black Ant. The cocoons then hatch out into workers of the Large
10
456 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Black Ant which never having known any other nest odour ~- . . quite
happily. accept the mixed nest as their true home. These Large
Black Ant workers will even take part in slave raids on their own
mother colony, fighting fiercely beside their colleagues, the Slave-
makers’. ~~
The integrity of nests is maintained by distinctive nest-odours
which help individuals to reject others even of their own species belonging
to alien nests. Yet it happens that species differing conspicuously in
appearance and habits are found together in a common nest most often as
parasite and host. ‘lhe Jet Black Ant is a large dairying tree dweller ;
the Yellow Ant is a dark-loving troglodyte. Yet the fertilized queen
of the Jet Black Ant by somehow simulating the nest-odour of the
Yellow -Ants insinuates herself into their nest and starts. producing
young which are tended by the yellow hosts who gradually dwindle
in numbers. Most strangely the dark-loving troglodyte hosts change
their instinctive behaviour, and in association with their dominant tree-
dwelling guests are ‘found happily climbing high on the sycamore
trees exposed to the full glare of the sun in order to milk the green flies
and other plant lice which are pastured there’.
_ One may however refuse a pang of pity for the poor obliterated
Yellow Ant, for often in turn it is itself parasitical upon a third species,
the Common Black Ant. The queen of the Yellow Ant celebrates
her nuptials by capturing a worker from a nest of the Common Black
Ant. She goes off on her marriage flight with the half-dead worker
in her jaws and ultimately devours it. This strange marriage custom.
is. not just. a Coarse untimely manifestation of an over-exuberant
appetite. It has a subtle, sinister purpose, for thereby the fertilized
queen acquires the nest odour of the Common Black Ants, and enters
their nest to live and multiply on the labours of the hosts, which are
then gradually supplanted.
The author has experimented on the learning abilities of ants by
running them through mazes, | and has. incidentally discovered that
even:a. lowly ant ali collapse in convulsions symptomatic of a nervous
breakdown when a maze pattern “that: it has mastered is changed by.
unexpected | and insurmountable: obstacles. ‘It has been found. that
there is much individual variability in learning behaviour, and that the
better-learning ants are more prone to such nervous breakdowns. It
is believed that. these better learning ants are the ones that initiate
the various operations in an ant colony. In most worker ants there is no
instinctively set division of tasks. But these exceptional individuals
start doing a particuiar job and their activity excites others immediately
round them to do likewise.
_ The author concludes the book with the hope (p. 118) that the
reader may not find himself ‘lost and forlorn in his brief excursion
into an alien world’. One is afraid this hope is not quite fulfilled as
the general reader feels he is rushed into a wild, strenuous whiz rlwind
tour of the ‘alien world’ and wishes the penned author had been
more considerate and taken him on a gentler and more methodically
conducted excursion.
“Dye
a ICH VPI Steet ale eben hax ©, 457
ADDITIONS TO THE SOCIETY’S: LIBRARY. _
2 oh rats | ehauAS
_ The following books have been added to the Society’s Library
since December 1955:
Review copies:
1. AFRICAN HaNDBOOK oF BiRDS, Series One: Birds of Eastern
and North-eastern Africa, Vol. I. By C. W. Macworth-Praed and
Capt. C. H. B. Grant (Longmans, Green & Co. Ltd., London, 1952). :
2. AFRICAN HANDBOOK OF Birps, Series One: Birds of Eastern
and North-eastern Africa, Vol. I]. By -C. W. Macworth-Praed and
Capt. C. H. B. Grant (Longmans, Green & Co. Ltd., London, 1955).
3. \Birp NavicaATION. By G. V. T. Matthews” (University Press,
Cambridge, 1955).
4. A GUIDE To THE Birds oF CreyLon. By G. M. Henry (Oxford
aie! Press, £955). 3
‘BUDGERIGARS FOR PLEASURE AND PRoritT. By Eric~ Leyland
(The Teach Yourself Books—English Universities ‘Press Lid., Licrnieton,
US Sy/o s.
ie “Tue WORLD OF SMALL ANIMALS. “By T. H.. SavGne (Unite sits
of Landon Press Ltd., 1955). Vo
“Pus NaTuraL History or Mammats. By Francois Bourlitre.
Translated from the French by H. ile Parshley (Seems G. HareD &
Co. Ltd.; London, 1955). :
8. THE MamMats OF THE Wortp—Their Life and Franien: By
Francois Bourliére. Translated from the French Any H.- M. Bareniey
(George G. eiaeyp & Co. Ltd., PED 1955) ot Nu
Purchased:
-. 1. TRAILING THE-TIGER. By Mary Hastings Bradley (D. eee
& Co., New York: London, 1929). i
a Ae BULLErF AND SHOT IN INDIAN FOREST, -PLan AND Hits. By
Crees nusselll (Wee ithacker deCa,,eondony 1900)-18)) ) @n.600 3
Bet -Niverr1 Sportinc .REMINISCENCES. _ By. An Cld_ Shikarri
: (Higginbotham & Co.,.Madras, .1880).. BCs iakiss 18
4.. [ELEPHANT AND SELADANG HUNTING IN Matava. By MK:
Hubback (Rowland Ward Ltd., London, 1905).
“Bo JuNcLe TRAILS AND JUNGLE PEOPLE. By Caspar - Whitney
(Tr. Werner Laurie, London, 1905). |
6. Witp MEN AND WILD BEASTS—Scenes in Camp and Jungle.
By Lt.-Col. Gordon Cumming (Edmonston & Douglas, Edinburgh,
1871).
: A SOLDIER’s SHIKAR Trips. By Brig.-Gen. H. G. Mainwaring’
(Grant Richards Ltd., London. 1920).
8. Past Days IN INDIA OR SPORTING REMINISCENCES OF THE
VALLEY OF iHE SOANE AND THE BASIN OF SINGROWLEE. By A Late
Customs Officer (Chapman & Hall, London, 1874).
g. SIR VICTOR BROOKE: SPORTSMAN AND NATURALIST. By Oscar
Leslie Stephen (John Murray, London, 1894).
10. Forest LIFE AND Sport 1N Inpta. By Sainthill Eardley-
Wilmot (Edward Arnold, London, 1910). |
11. LETTERS ON SPORT IN EASTERN BENGAL. J3y Frank B. Sinison
(R. H. Porter, London, 1886).
458 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
12, THE FOREST AND THE FiELD. By H. A. L., The Old Shikarri
(Saunder, Otley & Co., London, 1867).
13. Bis Game SHootine in INpIA, BURMA AND SOMALILAND. By
Col. V. M. Stockley (Horace Cox, London, 1913).
14. INCIDENTS OF FOREIGN SPORT AND TRAVEL. By Colonel Pollock
(Chapman & Hall Ltd., London, 1894).
15. Bic Game HunTiInG 1n Mancuuria. By N. Baikov. Adapted
from the Russian by Serge Ivanoft and Gertrude Mack. [| Hutchison
& Co. (Publishers) Ltd., London, 1936. |
. 16. Mopern Pic-stickinc—II Edition. By Lt.-Gen. Sir A. E.
Wardrop (Macmillan & Co. Ltd., London, 1930).
17. My Bie-camE Huntinc Diary. By Count Henrik Apponyi
(Selwyn & Blount, London, 1937). :
18. THE RiFLE 1n InpIA. By Lt.-Col. L. L. Fenton (W. Thacker
& Co., London).
19. On Hitt AND PLain. By Lord Hardinge of Penshurst (John
~ Murray, London, 1933).
20. ‘TIGERLAND—Reminiscences of Forty Years’ Sport and Adven-
ture in Bengal. By C. S. Gouldsbury (Chapman & Hall Ltd., London,
1915).
THE OUT-STATION OR JAUNTS IN THE JUNGLE. By James
Williams Grylls (Chapman & Hall Ltd., London, 1848).
22. IBEX SHOOTING ON THE Himarayas. By Major Neville Taylor
(Sampson Low, Marston & Co. Ltd., London, 1903).
23. SPORT IN BENGAL AND How, WHEN AND WHERE:‘TO SEEK It.
By Edward B. Baker (Ledger, Smith & Co., London, 1887).
24. SPORT IN JHEEL & JUNGLE. By K. N. Chaudhuri (Thacker,
Spink & Co., Calcutta, 1918).
25. THE Lire or an ELEPHANT. By S, Eardley-Wilmot (Edward
Arnold, London, 1912).
26. THE Diary OF A SPORTSMAN NATURALIST 1N INDIA. By E. P.
Stebbing (John Lane Co., The Bodley Head, New York, 1920).
27. Bres. By [. Khalifman (icreign Languages Publishing
House, Moscow—Translation from the Russian. 1951 edition: 1953).
28. Birps or THE NortH. By Bengt Berg (P. A. Norstedt &
Sénner, Stockholm, 1925).
29. THE PRESERVATION OF NATURAL HisToRY SPECIMENS, Vol, IL—
Invertebrates. By Reginald Wagstalie & J. Havelock Fidler (H. F.
& G. Witherby Ltd., London, 1955).
30. RecENT STupiEs In AviAN BioLocy. Edited by Albert Wolfson
(University of Hlinois Press, Urbana, 1955).
Fresented:
1. Notes oN THE AnimALS (Mammals, Birds and _ Reptiles)
or Mesopotamia. Bombay Natural History Society, 1916 (Photo-
static copy sent by Robert T. Hatt, Director, Cranbrook Institute of
Science, Bloornfield Hills, Michigan, U.S.A.).
2. STUDIES ON THE GAMOPETALOUS PHANEROGAMS OF KRISHNAGIRI
NaTionaL Park, Borivir. By Miss Aban Jehangir Randeria, St.
Xavier’s College, Bombay, 1954 (Thesis for the Degree of Master of
Science in Botany of the University of Bombay).
SS
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
1. ACCIDENTS TO TIGER AND PANTHER
The following two incidents will undoubtedly interest your readers.
I think they are well worth recording.
-Immediately after cattle had been driven into the labourers lines
by the herdsmen one evening, a woman was drawing’ water in a bucket
from a well close to the road where the cattle had just passed.
She had just raised the bucket of water and was pouring it into
her pail, when a # grown tiger sprang clean over her head and dis-
appeared down the well!
Neighbours nearby saw this and went to the well where the tiger
was standing on his hind legs, with his head out of the water. Soon
afterwards it was shot by the European in charge of the Estate. The
tiger had evidently followed up the cattle and fer some reason had
mistaken the woman for one of the animals.
Anyhow, it is most unusual for a ? grown tiger te be a maneater.
It was indeed lucky for her that she had simultaneously stooped to
pour the water into her pail as the tiger sprang.
The woman was unable to speak for two days, but after a
good peg cf whisky she soon commenced to talk and her husband
said she talked all right ! 3
The second incident is that of a full grown leopard being found
dead in a drain near the labourers’ lines with a domestic cat in its
mouth. Both were dead.
Obviously the leopard had attacked the cat whose head was in the
leopard’s mouth. On closer examination it was discovered that the
cat had bittea through the leopard’s wind pipe and there were claw
marks through the tongue—Hats off to the cat!
D1KAL CAMP,
DARRANG, ASSAM, FRANK NICHOLLS
January 6, 1956.
2 oe PING DOGS
In his customary Nature Notes in the Daily Telegraph, M.B. (a
well-known naturalist-writer) questions whether when a domestic
dog walks round and: round before settling down it is because
its wild ancestor did so. He remarks that even in domestic dogs it
seems not to be a common habit. Making enquiry of various dog
owners he received various replies, but twc particular views were given
frequently. The first was that dogs are less prone to this particular
trick than they used to be. The other was that this circling action
is most noticeable in kennel-kept dogs. In common with a large
number of sportsmen who have kept dogs in India for ‘Bobbery Pack’
purposes I can recollect that the circling habit before lying down was
460 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
fairly commen among them. But I kept no notes on the matter.
‘Perhaps’ says M. B. ‘our ancestors were responsible for it (the circling
abit) rather than the dogs’.
The purpose of this note is to invite those who can throw light on
the subject to do so.
c/o Liroyps Bank Ltp.,
39 PICCADILLY, W..'1; R. W. BURTON,
December 11, 1955. i Lt.-Col. 1.a. (Retd.).
. THE BROW-ANTLERED DEER OR THAMIN (PANOLIA
ELDI THAMIN THOMAS) IN THE UNION OF BURMA (1955)
The thamin has been declared a completely protected animal
under section 6 of the Burma Wild Life Protection Act, 1936, vide
Ministry of Agriculture and Forests Notification No, 237 dated the
16th August, 1955.
DISTRIBUTION
A survey was conducted by the Conservators of Forests, Northern
Circle and Chindwin Circle in their respective circles during 1954.
On request by the writer, the Conservators of Forests, Hlaing and
Sittang Circles carried out a similar survey in their circles during the
current year (1955).
Northern Circle
West-Katha Division:
There are approximately about 1oo-150 animals in the unclassed
forests along the villages of Ye-Oh, Aingyi-le and Chne generally
known as Phalekwin comprising an area of about 20 square miles and
situated in the south-west corner of the Division. The habitat is scrub
Indaing jungle dotted with grass patches.
East Katha Division: |
About 200 animals are in existence in the Division. They are |
found in all dry places under scrub forests with patches of grass from
the foot of Tagaung Hill towards Shwebo Division in the unclassed
forests and situated round about Tagaung, Magyigon, Mingon,
Kyarhnyat, Pauktabin, Twin-nge and Thabeikkyin along the Irrawaddy
covering an area of about 50 square miles in the southern part of the
Division.
Shwebo Division:
The estimated numbers now in existence are as follows:
Shwebo Range 300
Kanbalu Range 300
Thaw Range 600
The range of this species covers all scrub indaing areas, especially
those now constituted as fuel reseryves—Thityabin, Thaw and Kyaikthin
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 461
reserves lying between the Mu river and Mandalay-Myitkyina railway
line, Kyaikthin Fuel Reserve and the surrounding unclassed iorests
have been constituted as a Thamin Game Sanctuary. Most of the
thamin are to be found in this sanctuary. Estimates are prepared
from information collected from local villagers.
There are still a fair quantity of thamin distributed along the Mu
Valley and also on the east of the Irrawaddy River in the dry scrub
forests, and there is at present no anxiety as to its extinction. There
is no doubt, however, that as soon as conditions permit, steps should
be taken to appoint game staff to prevent further extermination of
these rare animals. (Letter dated Maymyo, 5th June 1954 from
U Thein, Conservator of Forests, Northern Circle.)
Chindwin Circle
Lower Chindwin Forest Divisicn: 300-400.
Yaw Forest Division 60.
Minbu Forest Division 300.
Meiktila Forest Division 300.
(Letter dated Maymyo, the 14th July, r954 from U Mya, Con-
servator of Forests, Chindwin Circle.)
relaunve @iene Ke
Insein Forest Division Nil.
Tharrawaddy Forest Division Nil.
Zigon Ferest Division About 30.
In Satthwa Reserve.
About 25-30.
Prome Forest Division Thamin moving in groups of 7 or
8 in Tonye Reserve just about 10
. miles north of Prome.
Thayetmyo Forest Division About 200.
: In scrub jungle between the eastern
watershed of Panichaung and
Irrawaddy River.
Allanmyo Forest Division About 300-500.
In small groups of 4 or 5 in un-
classed forests which is mostly
‘Indaing’. 7 |
(Letter dated Rangoon, the 21st October 1955, from U Ne Win,
Conservator of Forests, Hlaing Circle.)
Sigua, Cunele
Yamethin Forest Division 15
‘A small herd of 6-7 animals seen occasionally near Yan-Aung,
south-west of Pyawbwe.
A few pairs occasionally seen about four miles west of Stopes
Railway Station.’
(Letter dated Rangoon, 7th November 1955 from U Thein Han, °
Conservator of Forests, Sitrane Circle.). |
462 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Shwebo Forest Division:
In September 1952, an old Forest Ranger, resident of the area,
gave the following estimate:
Shwebo Range 400
Kanbalu Range 300
Thaw Range 600-700
The Divisional Forest Officer gave the following estimate in
September 1955:
Kyaikthin Wild Life Sanctuary 500
Shwebo Range 150
Kanbalu Range 250
Kyaikthin Wild Life Sanctuary is situated in Thaw Range. The
Divisional Forest Officer has not given an estimate of animals outside
the sanctuary.
Minbu Forest Division:
The estimate of 300 animals was made in 1954, before the re-
occupation of Shwezettaw Wild Life Sanctuary in March 1955. As
250 thamin are now reported inside the sanctuary, there may be more
than 50 animals outside the sanctuary.
Thayetmyo Forest Division:
In October 1947, the Divisional Forest Officer gave the same
number 200 for the Panichaung area, and from 20-30 animals in the
Kama area. A few thamin have also been reported from Negar-
myetnar, Padaung Township. The present estimate does not appear
to include the animals in the two areas.
GENERAL OBSERVATIONS
Lt.-General A. F. Phillip Christisen and Lt.-Col. Edgerby were
surprised to come across thamin on two or three occasions during the
campaign in Arakan from the autumn of 1943 to May 1945.
Lt.-Col. Edgerby who knows the thamin well, thought it strange
to find it on the west coast.
‘They seem scarce and very local and confined to the low ground
and coastal foothills on either side of the Indo-Burma border where the
country in winter is dry and the jungles scrubby and open with grassy
hillocks, ‘‘Khunai’’ grass growing on the foothills... JBNHS, Vol.
45 (4) December 1945. Owing to unsettled conditions in the area
recent information is not available. |
The Arakan Yoma is a natural barrier. ‘Vhamin from Minbu
Forest Division could not possibly have crossed over the Yoma into
Arakan. It is therefore possible that the ‘‘Thamin’* seen by Lt.-General
Phillip Christisen may be Panolia eldi eldi MacClelland; which had
wandered into Arakan from East Pakistan. In his article on The
Larger Deer of British India, R. I. Pocock gives the distribution of
Panolia eldi thamin Thomas as Upper Burma and Lower Burma
including Tenasserim; also Siam and probably the Malay Peninsula.’
JBNHS Vol. 43 (4)—April 1943.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 463
The writer was on a shooting holiday from the middle of March
to the middle of May in 1910 on the Tenasserim River. Though he
saw large herds of sambar, he never came across any thamin.
Neither did he hear of it.
Again in 1914, the writer was on a shooting holiday in the
Thayetchaung Township, Tavoy District, during the college summer
vacation. No thamin were seen.
I personally doubt if the range of ‘Thamin’. extends beyond
Martaban. This view is strengthened by the following extract from
‘Notes on the Fauna, Flora and Minerals of Tenasserim, Pegu and
Burma’ by Rev. I’. Mason, (Stephens Austin & Son, Hertford, 1882).
‘Their habitat and range according to Mr. Davis are as follows:
In the Mariaban District they inhabit exclusively the open grassy plains
between the sea and the mountains. In the Pegu plains they are
perhaps more abundant than in any other part of Burma; next to
them the Yengyaung plains in Martaban produce most; near Rangoon,
they are found in the Dallah plain. About Pegu and Yengyaung they
are found in herds frorn fifty to a hundred in the month of March, but
when hunted they congregate much more and as many as two hundred
may be seen together.’
CONCLUSION
There are now approximately 3,000-3,500 thamin in the Union of
Burma. Panolia eldi thamin Thomas cannot now be said to be a
vanishing species. But, as pointed out by the Conservator of Forests,
Northern Circle, early appointment of game staff to protect it from
further extermination is essential. It is hoped that the Ministry of
Agriculture and Forests will not stop at declaring thamin as a
completely protected animal, but will continue to see that there is no
further illicit shooting of thamin, the beautiful and typical deer of
Burma. ;
RANGOON, U TIN YIN, s.c.s. (Retd.)
BURMA.
[U Tun Yin has since informed us that by the subsequent Wild
Life Protection (Amendment) Act of 1956 the Government of the
Union of Burma has declared the thamin a completely protected
species along with rhinoceros, tapir argus pheasant, masked finfoot
and peafowl.—Eps. |
4. THE LEAF MONKEY OF KASHMIR VALLEY}?
Pocock (1939), Fauna of British India, Mammalia, Vol. I, p. 96
was not sure of the identity of the leaf monkey found in Kashmir and
he doubtfully included this locality in the distribution of two forms,
namely, Presbylis entellus achilles (Pocock) and P. e. ajax (Pocock)
without citing any authority.
* Published with the permission of the Director, Zoological Survey of India,
464 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
5 OO
While with a field par isp of the Horlesicall Suey ey of India in Ju ne
1955, I came across a large troop of leaf monkeys on the hills just
behind Nishat Garden about eight miles north-east of Srinagar.
There were about fifty individuals in the troop which probably included
a number of family parties. The altitude at which they were found
was about 8,ooo ft. That this leaf monkey frequents places of similar
or higher elevations was confirmed by a number of reports from: the
local people also. Although no specimen could be obtained, yet it
was possible to observe some individuals at a very close range and
identify them to be P. e. ajax.
The troop was busy eating wild fruits. A few individuals hurled
stones’ when a shot was fired. It appears to be quite an inquisitive
and a bold animal, some old individuals even threatening to charge.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA,
INDIAN MusEuM, H. KHAJURIA
CALCUTTA,
August 18, 1955.
5. LONGEVITY OF THE CEYLON RUDDY MONGOOSE
(HERPESTES SMITHIVZEVEANTICUS) IN CAPTINANY
Further to my note which was published in the Journal in 1954
fVol. 52, (2 & 3) ‘page 587], I ‘now. ‘write to ‘record’ thatthe
mongoose in question died on the September 8, 1955, aged approxi-
mately 17 years and 1t months. It ate quite well right up to the last
day and died peacefully during the night, apparently of old age and/or
heart failure.
‘TONACOMBE,
NAMUNUKULA, Wiig NAYS AN IPISUBL IER
CEYLON,
November 7, 1955.
6. TUFTED DEER IN BURMA
With reference to U Tun Yin’s very interesting note on ‘Tufted
Deer in Burma’, in Vol. 53, pp. 123-125 of this journal, mention
of ‘black barking deer’ in Northern Burma was not, unfortunately,
confined to newspaper accounts of the Vernay-Cutting expedition.
Mr. Cutting himself published an account of this expedition in ‘The
Fire Ox and Other Year’ (London, 1947) and wrote as follows
(pp. 318/19) :
‘Now came a big moment in the history of the expedition.
Returning to camp one evening, empty-handed, we saw a Lisu
crouched over the dark form of a little animal. It was a deer with
1 ? Or was it not perhaps the accidental hurtling of loose stones. down the
hillside, caused by the flight of the langurs on the report of the gun?—Eps,. |
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 465
prominent teeth and curved antlers, and its colour was a smoky-
gray of a uniform shade. This was the famous crested muntjac:
the black barking deer had turned out to be smoky-gray. The
American Museum of Natural History would be the first to possess
A SVSCMINGD 4 9 o
The smoky- _gray deer was in good condition, we were happy to
discover, and the newspaper correspondents would now be at liberty
to call the expedition a success. Actually, its success or failure did
not depend on one specimen, however important, but not one of us
would have teigned indifference to the vagaries of those who had
made this a barking-deer expedition. Anyway, there it was on
the ground before us, the prize for which we had worked and
struggled.’
‘An excellent photograph of the dead animal and its Lisu hunter
is printed in the book. Mr. Anthony’s notes now make it clear that
this was merely another example of the Tufted Deer.
In 1948 I found it to be common in the Chimili area, where it
was wont to come out singly early in the morning's to graze on open
grassy areas below the snow-line at 8,o00-9,o00 ft. The Lisus in this
area had no superstition about hunting them with cross-bows and
arrows, and I purchased one so killed; the skin and skull were
presented to the British Museum (Natural History), whose only other
specimen from Burma was the one presented by Capt. Maxwell West.
I failed to find this deer in the upper N’Mai Hka or its tributaries
the Ahkyang and the Faron, nor has anyone else yet recorded it north
of the Chimili on the Burma side.
ForEST OFFICE,
BRUNEI, B. E. SMYTHIES
SARAWAK,
November 3, 1955.
7. EXPERIMENTS IN IMPLANTING AFRICAN LIONS
INTO MADHYA BHARAT
The Rar in India used to be fairly common in the jungles. now
included in Rajasthan and Madhya Bharat. It is unfortunate that it
is not found any longer in the country except in the Gir forest situated
in Saurashtra. The reason for its disappearance is the tiger which
kept on increasing in number and killed off or drove away the lion
until it found an asylum in the Gir forest. This forest is an isolated
area completely cut off by over a hundred miles from the tiger infested
hills. The tiger is the kind of animal which does not allow other
large carnivora feeding upon the same food to live in the same locality.
It is like the case of having two swords in one scabbard.
The tiger seems to have come to India from China, Assam, Burma
etc., through Bengal, and that is the reason why it is still called Bengal
tiger. It was more cunning and powerful than the lion and therefore
it killed off or drove the lion away from the areas it occupied,
466 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol, 88
I had a few opportunities to arrange duels between the lion and the
tiger in a small arena specially prepared for the purpose. In three
such experiments on three different occasions I found the same result.
It is the lion that always makes the first attack and it is he who gets
the worst of it. One or two smacks from the tiger are enough to
make the lion retire.
The late Maharaja Sir Madho Rao Scindhia, realizing that lions had
existed in his State (Gwalior) in the olden days, resolved to re-introduce
them. With this object he imported three pairs of lions from Africa.
The jungle selected was Sheopur and Shivpuri forest range, which
covered an area of some 1,000 square miles. )
When these animals arrived they were taken to a place called
Dobe Kund which is practically half way between Sheopur and Shivpuri.
A special enclosure of stone wall, 20 ft. high, was prepared, in which
the lions were kept. They were not fed on dead meat but were
always provided with live buffaloes so that they might not lose the
natural habit of killing animals. They were kept in this enclosure for
about 4 years during which they not only got thoroughly acclimatized,
but also bred and increased in number.
This place was situated in a lonely spot in the midst of forest
abounding in tigers. The roaring of the lions always attracted the
wild tigers, but on account of the high wall they could not get at
them. We used to make periodical inspections of the place, and
twice I came across tigers lying about in the vicinity of the enclosure-~
they probably came to challenge the lions!
We did not let out all the lions at the same time, but they were
released in pairs. The first pair which was let out in August 1920
gave us no trouble, but vanished in the wilderness. But when the
second pair was let out, the animals came back again and made their
home outside the enclosure. They caused great alarm among the men
who went there with a supply of their food. They attacked and
snatched away the buffalo from their hands. Fortunately they did
not kill any man but they simply took the buffalo and started feeding
on it there and then.
On getting this news we got rather worried; so the next day we
went there in a party and drove them away from the enclosure. Since
there were some more lions left in the enclosure a regular supply had
to be sent for their feed. The next day when the shikaris went with
a fresh buffalo they found the male lion lying dead with his body badly
mutilated, showing that he had been killed by a tiger. The lioness
was not seen anywhere in the vicinity. What had apparently happened
was that this pair on being driven away must have come across some
tiger in the jungle who must have killed the lion, and the lioness
must have escaped.
The third, fourth and fifth pairs gave us no trouble, but when the
sixth and the last pair was let out after two months they proved most
troublesome. ‘They adopted the easiest method for getting their food.
The forest in this part is very thinly populated having no big villages
but just a few scattered hamlets. The poor villagers do not possess
any fire-arms. The pair of lions made the habit of going to these
hamlets and helping themselves to any cattle they could kill and eat on
the spot. The villagers, to protect their animals, built stronger fences.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 487
The next time the pair visited the village, they could not get through
those fences and therefore they killed.a man instead and devoured him.
As soon as this news was brought to us we rushed to the spot and
destroyed the animals.
Most of the five pairs that vanished into the wilderness went
a long way east and south. A few cases came to my knowledge of
these lions having been actually shot near Panna and Jhansi in the
east, and some at Kotah in the south. The late Maharaja of Baria
shot one of them a few years ago along the bank of Kunoo River in
Madhya Bharat.
I was glad to read in the newspapers that there is a proposal to
re-introduce the Indian lion from the Gir forest into some other parts
of our country, so that the species may not get extinct. If this idea
is under serious contemplation, I suggest that the authorities should
select isolated forests in which there are no tigers. Rajasthan is one
of the suitable provinces where one can find such isolated jungles.
It is most desirable to make this experiment, because very few Indian
lions are left in the world, and if they die the species will vanish with
them.
Where sport is concerned it is far more interesting and exciting
to shoot a tiger than a lion. The tiger requires comparatively elaborate
arrangements to be made for a successful shoot, and sometimes even
after all such arrangements and precautions there is every possibility
of his giving one the slip. He is infinitely more cautious than the lion.
In the summer of 1952 I accompanied the Maharaja of Jaipur who
went for a lion shoot in the Gir forest in Junagadh. All shooting
arrangements were organised by H. H. The Jam Sahib of Nawanagar.
The very next day after our arrival a beat was organised in which two
lions came out together out of which one was shot. Another beat was
organised the next day in which another lion was shot.
I was surprised to notice that in neither case did the lion attempt
to make any use of cover. He came out boldly as if taking a
stroll, offering an easy target to the sportsman. Once he is wounded
he is certainly as bold as the tiger.
There is a great diiference between the habits of these two animals
as well. A lion uses his paws to strike his adversary, whereas the
tiger uses them mainly for holding down his victim. Lions live in
a ‘pride’ consisting of a large family, whereas the habit of the tiger
in this respect is just the opposite. Lions do their hunting by team work
which tigers rarely do. The lion is comparatively weaker but bolder,
and he is not half as cunning as the tiger. If a tiger is accompanied
by a tigress and cubs it is the tiger who tackles the kill first, and he
has his fill before allowing any member of this family to touch the food.
But in the case of the lion, and also the panther, it is the female who
does the killing and eating, while the male joins her later on. To put
it in nut-shell a tiger has more of the Indian habit in this respect
than the other animals!
Lions should certainly be increased not only to save them from
extinction but also for providing a variety of big game shooting in
India, although it is much more fun, and also more difficult, to shoot a
tiger.
pees JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 83
In conclusion I must state that our implanting experiments were
more of a success than a failure. The very fact that H. H. The Maharao
of Kotah, and the Maharajas of Panna and Baria have shot these lions
in comparatively recent years, suggests the possibility that they may
still be surviving in remote areas away from the haunts of the tiger.
KESRI SINGH, |
NARAIN Niwas,
Colonel.
JAtPUR (RAJASTHAN),
October 26, 1955.
~ 8. WESTERN LIMITS OF TWO EAST HIMALAYAN BIRDS -
Whuie in Landour recently I had the opportunity of examining a
specimen (d) of Gould’s Shortwing, Brachypteryx stellatus Gould,
collected by Master Robert Fleming at Dhodi Tal, 11,000 ft. altitude, 70
miles due north of Mussoorie, on 7-6-1953. The hitherto known distribu-
tion of this species was Nepal, Sikkim, Bhutan and South Tibet bordering
Bhutan. ‘
I also examined a specimen of the Striped-throated Yuhina,
Yuhina -gularis gularis Hodgson, collected by him at Jabarkhet,
Mussoorie (ca. 6,000 ft.) on 9-3-1953. The Fauna gives the distribu-
tion.of this as ‘Nepal to eastern Assam north of the Brahmaputra’.
-. These specimens, therefore, represent a considerable westward
extension of the known ranges. Remarkably enough both of them were
killed by Master Robert with an air-rifle! ie
33, Pau Hit, SALIM ALI
Banpra, Bompay, ‘ “
January 13, 1956.
We00s 2. 6. 9... A DABCHICK: 1S BORN
.In the game of bird photography both sides often follow the same
tactics: the ardent photographer, having found a nest, retires into his
‘hide’. and waits for the return of its owner; the wily bird, noting
the carefully camouflaged excrescence which has suddenly grown from
the ground, retires into the jungle and waits for the departure of the
photographer. And so, things being as they are, the consequences are
as inevitable as the philosophers say they will be, namely unexposed
films, unproductive hours, and unavailing labour.
The Little Grebe or Dabchick (Podiceps ruficollis) is expert at playing
this game of patience, for it will vanish into the reeds, in the midst
of which it makes its home, without leaving behind so much as a
ripple on the water, and yet it will not go so far away as to deprive
the photographer, steaming in his hide, of the trilling sound of its
mocking laughter. At such moments, the photographer is apt to forget
his biological training and call it ‘a regular swine’. —
In the summer of 1944 I was in Kashmir and planned to photegraph,
among other birds, the Little Grebe; I hoped for success of course,
but expected none, and my expectation was largely fulfilled !
Hi
MISCHELANDOUS NOTES = =>) == 469
in ee
on iNSsenZ
| LY ee i ae a wee = LW
TN Ws eee
{ 10mm j
Lateral view of the head of a Lense Indian Kite showing split bill.
To all intents and purposes it appears that the upper mandible has
split up during the embryonic development of the kite, for which no
reason can be assigned. This split-billed condition does not seem to
have affected the normal life and activities of the specimen.
I am thankful to Dr. Walter Koelz and the American Museum of
Natural History, New York, for allowing me to examine the specimen,
and to Shri A. Karmakar for preparing the final sketch from my original
drawing under my supervision.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA, BISWAMOY BISWAS
InpIAN Museum,
CALCUTTA 13,
December 13, 1955.
ee N OAL RONG Vibes ACHE D CHICKS OF LE
SLATYBREASTED RAIL, RALLUS STRIATUS LINNAEUS.
A pair of Slatybreasted Rail bred in the wader aviary of the Calcutta
Zoo this year and four eggs were successfully hatched out. On the
30th July, one chick was hatched, and from the remaining three eggs
three chicks came out on the 31st. While the first chick died in the
nesting basket on the 31st, the three others descended to the ground
along with the mother on the rst August.
A search through the available literature for any record on the
newly hatched chicks of the Slatybreasted Rail, proved abortive.
Coward in his ‘Birds and their Young’ (1923, p. 57), however, says,
whatever the plumage of the adult rails the young in their down dress
are self-coloured, blackish grey or sooty.’ I, therefore, give my
observations below.
Chick in down.—Thickset woolly down black all over. Bill, legs,
feet and claws black. The bill is proportionately a very small and
476 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 58
bluntly conical structure, very different from that of the adult. It is,
however, laterally compressed. The first-born chick has a minute,
white egg-tooth. A trace of the egg-tooth is also present in one of
the specimens born later.
Measurements in millimeters:
Tip of bill to root of tail along curva-
ture of dorsal side 600 81 84 BD 82
Bill from anterior edge of nares... 370 4°5 4°] SEH
Depth ot bill at nostril sce 4°5 | = 44 _
Width of bill at nostri) od 2°3 fete -2°0; 2°5 pk
Tarsus 500 Ze3 12°5 13°0 13°0
Longest toe (middle) without claw. 14°5 | ob URS 18°5 14°5
Ege-tooth eleebresen taal "Absent Absent A trace
apkesert
The chicks were apparently healthy and were seen being assisted
by the mother in feeding. The hen picks up minute particles of
food (ants’ eggs, shrimps etc. supplied for rearing wader chicks) places
before the chicks, and draws their attention to the food particles by
pecking about it.
When. Painted Spurfowl, Indian Water-Rail, Spotted Crake ete.,
which share the same aviary, attempted to come near the chicks one
were promptly driven away by the mother.
Unfortunately the three chicks suddenly died on the 3rd August.
ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS, ALIPORE,
CALCUTTA 27, R. K. LAHIRI
December 1, 1955.
15. HAWK DROWNING WOUNDED DUCK
‘Last Sunday I witnessed a remarkable incident.
We were shooting at Gondal Tank and were attempting to despatch
a wounded teal on the water some 100 yards away with a .22 rifle.
After one or two shots it was hit but not killed and flew a short.
way to be stooped upon by some kind of eagle or buzzard.
The identification of birds of prey is not my forte but this was a
blackish brown bird, of heavy flight and slightly larger than the common
kite. Its cheeks and the sides of its neck appeared to be yellow.
As what I shall now call the buzzard stooped, the teal dived. When
the latter rose again to the surface the process was repeated and so
on for four or five times. Then the buzzard, apparently tiring of
this game, stooped once more and sat on the water over the teal,
~ MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 477
appearing to hold the bird under water to drown it. He remained in
this position for three or four minutes until he was moved by a shot
into the water near him. The teal at once rose to the surface and a
few moments afterwards the buzzard returned, stooped, and resumed
his position on the water. This time the buzzard stayed there longer
and as we could not wait he was.once-again moved by a shot and
this time went right away. A minute or two later the teal floated
to the surface and apparently expired almost immediately.
At the place where this incident occurred the water was certainly
more than 6 ft. deep and there was a very thin growth of weeds
trailing on the surface of the water, but not enough I am sure to
support the buzzard.
I witnessed this scene through binoculars.
RAJKUMAR COLLEGE,
RaJKOT, M. A. WYNTER-BLYTHI
February 1, 1956.
| Reference is invited to the Gleaning ‘Swan Song’ and the editorial
note to it (Vol. 52, p. 655) dealing with this subject.—EDs. |
16.. A JUMPING SNAKE
Dr. Maurice Burton in the Illustrated London News of tath
November, 1955 discusses an incident of a five-foot long snake progress-
ing down a mountain side in Liguria in a series of jumps. This reminds
me of a jumping snake which I saw in Balasore (Orissa) in 1926. I was
motoring along the main road when I saw about 25 to 30 yards in
front of me a light-brown coloured, five-foot long snake crossing the
road. I accelerated with the intention of running over it. The snake
saw me approaching and began to move faster but could not move
fast enough to escape.. When I was about 2 yards from it and made
certain that I must crush it, it rose into the air and got away from
me. The angle at which it rose was about 45° or a little more. It
reached a height of 3 to 4 ft., but its tail was never very far from
the ground. I stopped the car and tried to find the snake, but it dis-
appeared among the bushes and so I was unable to identify it.
It would be interesting to know whether any of your readers have
had experiences of jumping snakes.
16, Union Park,
Kar, Bompay, 21, D. E, REUBEN
January 24, 1956.
17, A NOTE ON FISHES OF THE FAMILIES SYNGNATHIDAE
AND PEGASIDAE AND THE ORDER HETEROSOMATA IN
THE COLOMBO MUSEUM
_In the course of my studies of the fishes in the collections of the
Colombo Museum I discovered the presence of three species among the
478 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Syngnathidae and four species among the Heterosomata not hitherto
recorded off Ceylon. These are: |
Name in the Locality
collection
Syngnathus cyanospilus Bleeker on 4 Pearl banks and off
Jaffna.
Hippocampus hystrix Kaup ae 1 Pearl banks.
Hippocampus trimaculatus Leach an 4 Pearl banks.
Pseudorhombus dupliciocellatus Regan ... 2 Pearl banks.
Pseudorhombus elevatus Ogilby Sai 13 Pearl banks and off
Panadura.
Pardachirus marmoratus (Lacépéde) ... 2 Pearl banks.
Brachlrus albomaculatus (Kaup) Sc 1 Otf Negombo.
Amongst these first records the record of Pseudorhombus dupliciocel-
latus and Hippocampus trimaculatus off Ceylon indicates a westward
extension of the range of distribution of these species, whilst the
record of Pardachirus marmoratus off Ceylon indicates an eastward
extension of its range of distribution.
The Colombo Museum also possesses a single specimen of Pegasus
volitans Linné collected from China Bay, Trincomalee. This is the
second record of this species for the Indian Ocean, the first being
that of Johnstone (1904, Pearl Oyster Reports, pt. 2, p. 214) from
off Aripu.
NATIONAL MUSEUMS,
CEYLON, P. H. D. H. De SILVA,
September 7, 1955. Assistant in Zoology.
18. FOOD OF THE WHALE SHARK, RHINEODON TYPUS
(SMITH): EVIDENCE OF A JATAKA SCULPTURE,
2ND CENTURY B.C.
(With a plate)
It is not my intention to enter into a controversy raised in McCann's
recent article!, in which he has tried to prove that the Whale Shark
is a vegetarian fish, browsing on long filamentous marine algae, as
against Gudger’s statement® to the following effects: |
‘However, Rhineodon must need and must get bulkier food. This
it undoubtedly finds in sardines and like small surface-feeding fishes,
1 McCann, C. The Whale Shark, Rhineodon typus (Smith). JBNHS, 52: pp.
326-833 (1954).
2 Gudger, E. W. What ultimately terminates the life span of the Whale Shark,
Rhineodon typus? ibid., 54: pp. 879-884 (1953).
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
Timingila Jataka Medallion (2nd century B.C.) depicting ‘Whale Shark’
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 479
and their feeding and schooling habits make it easier for the Whale
Shark to get them in great quantities. Like Rhineodon, they are
plankton-feeders on the surface and go in schools. The sardine
fishermen off Lower California often find Rhineodon competing with
them—indeed, they sometimes get a Whale Shark in their sardite
nets. These sardines are presumably the largest fish on which
Rhineodon normally feeds. However, it probably sometimes feeds
on any somewhat larger fishes that it gathers at the surface and!
can swallow through its small gullet. And it is also known that
it feeds on small squids.’ |
Quite recently, in my article’ on ‘Fish in Jataka Sculptures’ in
commenting (page ro) on the Timingila Jataka Medallion among the
Bharhut reliefs of the 2nd century B.c. (Plate, fig. 2) it was pointed
out that Timingila does not refer to a true whale but to the Whale
Shark, and that its food-fishes, such as mullets, sardines and small
perches, are shown in the medallion (Plate, fig. 2). When the fish
inhales water for oxygenating its gills, the power of suction is so
ereat that a small boat with three occupants could be sucked into its
cave-like mouth as is so clearly shown in the medallion. It is evident,
therefore, that even sizeable fish and other animals, besides plankton
and small shoaling fishes, could form the food of the Whale Shark.
It is not surprising that McCann found the intestines of the young
specimens of Rhineodon full of algae, for fishery biologists know that
the feeding habits of the young invariably differ from those of the
adult, and that the same may be different in different seasons according:
to the availability of the nature of food at the time. The actual records
of the feeding habits of this monster fish are so meagre that it is
quite likely that both McCann and Gudger may prove to be correct
according to size of the specimen and seasons of capture of the fish.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA,
CALCUTTA 12, SUNDER LAL HORA
October 14, 1955.
19. ADDITIONS TO THE APHID FAUNA OF INDIA
In his previous papers (David 1954 a & b), the writer had furnished
notes on 64 species of aphids which had been noted by him in South
India. Since then further records of aphids have been obtained
in this area. In this note six species which are new to this
country are reviewed. Of these except the first, the other five are
met with only in the high hill ranges of the Nilgiris up to about
7,200 ft. above mean sea level.
1. Aulacorthum (Neomyzus) dispersum (vy. d. Goot)
This species is easily distinguished by its colour. The larvae are
yellow with a purple patch around the siphunculi; the legs, siphunculi
1 Hora, S. L. Fish in Jatka Sculptures, Journ. As. Soc, Science, XXI, pp. 1-13
(1955).
480. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
and cauda are pale with the antennae dark. The apterae are dark
greyish green with the cauda and the base of the third antennal segment
pale. Eyes dark brown; legs dark in the distal half of femora and
the ends of tibiae. In macerated specimens the dorsum has dark
patches on each segment up to the second abdominal segment and the
sixth and seventh segments. Alatae are dark greenish black with
dark siphunculi and a pale cauda having 3 or 4 hairs. |
Measurements in mm.
Length of body Antennae Siph. Cauda Antennal segments
IOUS NY WY VI
ADLERACwaesmenUS 2°47 °S4 “28 Ue) CGNs) BV). (CUTS 7777)
Alataew iG mao 2°45 ‘48 wae - 65 *42 37 ( 12+°82)
Rhinaria in apterae ]II-16, 1V-17, V-10 and in alatae ILI-34, IV-20, and V-Ll. Last.
segment of rostrum ‘16, Second joint of hind tarsus ‘15.
Host-plant and locality: Emilia sanchifolia in Coimbatore during
January 1954.
Notes.—The aphids feed usually on the undersurface of leaves and
are met with in considerable numbers. There is no perceptible effect
on the plant due to their feeding. Ants do not visit them.
‘This species has so far been recorded only in Java. Although it is
very near Neomyzus van der Goot, this subgenus differs from it by
the presence of rhinaria on the V antennal segment, also in both
apterae and alatae. It is however retained in this subgenus for the
present.
2. Capitophorus eleagni (Del Guercio) ;
This aphid conforms in general characters to the typical European
form but differs in having the hairs on the vertex longer, about twice
the basal breadth of the III antennal segment. The hairs on the VII
and VIII’ abdominal segments are even longer. The colour of the
living form is invariably yellow with paired transverse green bands
across the abdominal segments, of which those on the II abdominal
segment are longer.
Measurements in mm.
Length of body Ant. Siph. Cauda Antennal segments Rhinaria
1Hdt IW \W VI lil IV V
Apterae ... 1°96 1:02 eG Op meee 39 +34 +28 (09+ °69) #
Alatae ... 2°02 BRS) OHSS ONS} 54 +4) +29 (°11+-°77) 47) 297
Last segment of rostrum .15 and second joint of hind tarsus .og
Host-plant and locality: Cynara scolymus in Ootacamund during
January and July. |
Notes.—The aphid occurs in very large colonies on the undersurface
of the leaves of this plant and sometimes covers the entire leaf. It is
difficult to distinguish the presence of the aphid due to its cryptic
coloration. Ants are not found attending on it and the only indica-
tion of its presence is given by the development of sooty mould on
the honeydew. The drain of sap from the plant due to the feeding of
considerable numbers of this aphid noticeably retards the growth of the
plant. )
It is learnt from Dr. D. Hille Ris Lambers that a certain amount
of variation in the structure of the hairs exists in forms collected from
Eritrea. Therefore the South Indian form is retained in this species,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 431
3. Eutrichosiphum lithocarpi Maki.
The larvae of this aphid are .reddish and the apterae and alatae
dull black. Siphunculi small and dark with long stout hairs. Hairs
on the vertex and the two spinal ones on the VIII abdominal segment,
about 4 times the basal breadth of the III antennal segment. Hairs
on the antennae are about 1/3 the former. Last rostral segment long,
narrow and tapering, about 5 times the length of the second joint
of the hind tarsus. The whole body is covered with closely arranged
nodules. Tibia have 4 spurs and the tarsal formula is 7, 7, 7. Alatae
have dark sclerotic pattern extending like a patch on the venter of the
abdominal segments.
Measurements in mm
Length of body Ant. Siph, Antennal segments Rhinaria
: Le ee CE evi VI ING
ENPLETAC) Gree la seg 61 ral "06-04 °15 :08 :09 (°11+°18)
- Alatae ~ -:.. 2:19 1:33 ‘65 706 06 °47 +17 °17 (:14+°26) 1 4
Length of last segment of rostrum .34 and second joint of hind tarsus .o9.
Host-plant and locality. Quercus montana, Q. coccinea, and Q.
serrata in Ootacamund in January.
Notes.—The aphids are found on the undersurface of leaves or in
leaf axils in the terminal portions of branches. Only about 4 or 5
are found on a leaf but they are spread out on a number of leaves.
Ants have>no attraction for them.
4, Macrosiphum hellebori Theobald and Watson (?)
This is a large green aphid which resembles Macrosiphum euphorbiue
(Thomas) Slaselhy. The number of hairs in the cauda are usually more
than rr and the. legs have the distal portions of femora dark.
Measurements in mm,
Length of body Ant. Siph. Cauda Antennal segments Rhinaria
ME IAW NY Vi III
Apterae .. 2:99 391 97 “44 ‘92 +75 +70 (°18+1°14) 3
Length of the last rostral segment .14 and the second joint of the hind
tarsus .I5.
_ Host-plant and locality: Ranunculus sp. in Ootacamund in September.
Notes.—The aphid feeds on the stem in large numbers. The plant
is not affected in any way by their feeding.
This species was listed as a synonyn of M. euphorbiae (Thomas) by
Lambers (1947). However, he states that it has to be a separate species
for the characters mentioned above.
5.- Myzus (?) hemerocallis Takahashi.
Apterae yellow with pale cylindrical siphunculi and wide flange. The
antennae are short and dark. Head with minute spinules all over.
Cauda conical. Alatae do not have the sclerotic patch on the abdominal
tergites.
Measurements in mm.
Length of body Ant. Siph. Cauda Antennal segments Rhinaria
a JUBE di § WW VI Til
Apterae ... 1°76 f() ORS) OFT I) O11) OND Ylyitb ony
Alatae ... 1°80 1°30 *29 als "42. +22 +16 *09+°40 GS)
482 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Length of the last rostral segment .10 and second joint of the hind
tarsus .10.
Host-plant and locality: Hemerocallis flava in Ootacamund and
Coonoor (6,000 ft.). Also Agapanthus umbellatus at Coonoor. ‘The
aphid is found in January.
Notes.—The aphids are found usually in between the two tender
central leaves and are not visited by ants. No mark of injury is seen
on the plant even when large numbers are present. Only the alates
are seen on the tips of the leaves.
This aphid has so far been noted only in Formosa. Though it
does not possess the sclerotic pattern on the abdomen in alates, which
is typical of the genus, it has much affinity with this genus.
6. Myzus ornatus Laing.
Apterae are pale yellowish ‘all over with pale, cylindrical, tapering
siphunculi and a large flange. Cauda broad and constricted at the
base. Dark intersegmental spots are found pleurally on the thorax
and abdomen.
Measurements in mm.
Length of body Ant. Siph. Cauda. Antennal segments
IG Ie WW VI
Apterae ... 1°63 °89 32 14 25°15. 11 :09+:18
Length of the last rostral segment .og and second joint of the hind
tarsus .oQ.
Host-plant and locality: Cineraria sp. in Ootacamund during
January.
Notes.—The flower stalks are usually infested by hordes of these
aphids which either stunt the growth of the plant or distort the
formation of flowers.
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
My grateful thanks are due to Dr. D. Hille Ris Lambers, Holland,
for his kind help in identifying the aphids.
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE,
COIMBATORE. S. KANAKARAJ DAVID
REFERENCES
David, S. Kanakaraj (1954 a): Rhopalosiphoninus latysiphon (Dav.) a new record
of aphid for India. Ind. J. Ent. xvi (II): 196.
— — — (1954 b): Thesis for M.Sc., University of Madras, January 1954.
Hille Ris Lambers, D. (1947): Contributions to a monograph of the Aphididae
of Europe. II. Temminckia iv: 1-134.
20. SOME INSECTS ATTRACTED TO LIGHT-III
The following insect species were taken at light in addition to
those already reported by me (JBNEIS, 52: 647-650 and 950-951).
The collections were made in Bangalore during March-May 1955,
unless otherwise indicated. I am most grateful to the authorities of
the Commonwealth Institute of Entomology, British Museum (Natural
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 493
History), London, for the determination of the species included here.
I am likewise grateful to Dr. M. Putta Rudraiah, Government
Entomologist, for facilities.
List oF INSECTS
EPHEMEROPTERA
Baetidae.—Cleon sp. @ (Novr. ’53).
HEMIPTERA
Lygaeidae.——Dieuches leucoceras Walker, Nysius melanicits
Distant and N. minor Distant.
Jassidae.—Deltocephalus sp.
LEPIDOPTERA
Gelechiidae.—? Brachmia sp. {Novr. °53), ? Chelaria sp.,
Lecithocera sp. and ? Telphusa sp.
Cosmopterygidae.—Cosmopleryx aibilineela Dev. and
Cosmopteryx sp. (Novr. °53).
Hyponomeutidae.—Plutella maculipennis Curt.
Tineidae—Tinea opsigona Mey. (Novr. ’53), Tvrichophaga
monachella Hb. (Novr. ’53), and T. irimaculella Snell. (Novr. 53).
Olethreutidae.—Argyroploce sp., Crocidosema plebeiana
Zell. (Novr. 53) and Psorosticha zizyphi St. (Novr. ’53).
Pyralidae—Charllena sp., Crambus sp. (Novr. 53), Loxostege
messalis Walk., Nymphula affinialis Guen., Phycita (s.l.) sp., Udea
brevialis Walk.
Lycaenidae.—-Talicada nyseus Guer.
Lymantridae.—Lymantria fuliginosa Moore.
Arctiidae.—Asura sp.
Agrotidae.—Eustroia opella Swinh. and Hydrillodes lentalis
Guen.
Xyloryctidae-—Odites sp. (Novr. °53).
COLEOPTERA
Carabidae.—Clivina memnonia Dej. and Macrochilus 3-
maculatus Oliv.
Elateridae.—Agrypnus fuscipes F. and Ludius sp. nr. hirtellus
Cand.
Tenebrionidae.—Microcrypticus sp.
Copridae.—Onthophagus sp., nr. ovissanus Arrow.
A phodiidae.—Aphodius costatulus Schmidt and A. parvulus
Har.
Melolonthidae.—Apogonia villosella Blanch.
Rutelidae.—dAdoretus bicolor Brenske.
- 484 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL_HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
HYMENOPTERA
Braconidae.—Apanteles sp.
Formicidae.—Aenictus sp., Camponotus spp. (more than 3
species seem to be involved), Myrmecaria sp. and Polyrhachis sp.
DIPTERA
Muscidae.—Atherigona sp. 9.
Division or ENTOMOLOGY, 3
DEPARTMENT 0 AGRICULTURE, AP ine S. USMAN
BANGALORE,
December 31, 1955.
21.- NOTE ON THE LIFE-HISTORY OF LEMA
SEMIREGULARIS JAC. (COLEOPTERA, CHRYSOMELOIDEA,
CRIOCERIDAE)
Eighty-one species of Lema are known to occur in India (jacoby,
1908; Lefroy, 1909). Lelroy (1909) opined that although these beetles
were common on grass and on plants in the plains, life-history of none
was definitely known and this statement holds true to date. Recently
Sengupta (1952) and the authors (Sengupta and Behura, 1953, 1955)
studied the life-history of Lema praeusia Fab. and L. signalipennis Jac.
respectively and recorded them, and L. semiregularis Jac. on turmeric
(Curcuma longa) for the first time. The only other species of Lema
known to occur on turmeric.is L. fulvicornis Jac., in Ceylon (Huston,
1937). eee hing ee
_ L. semiregularis was first noticed as a minor pest on turmeric in
1949 in the district of Phulbani (Orissa) along with L. praeusia -and
L. signatipennis. During subsequent years all the three species
appeared in major pest form in Phulbani, and are so far known to be
confined to that district. Adult specimens of L. semivegularis were
obtained from the Turmeric Research Station, G. Udaygiri, and
reared at Cuttack in the Entomological Laboratory of the Department
of Agriculture, Orissa, at ordinary room temperature in glass jars
covered with muslin during November 1953: to January 1954.
Besides, field observations were also made by the staff of the
[Entomological Section of the Agriculture Department stationed at
G. Udaygiri and Phulbani.
It is interesting to note that the different stages in the life-history
of the three species of Lema infesting turmeric in ‘Orissa, viz., J.
praeusta, L. signatipennis and L, semiregularis were extraordinarily
similar.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 435
Lire-Hisrory
Egg: The eggs are laid singly on the leaves, being thrust into
the tissues. No female was observed to lay more than 11 eggs within
24 hours, counts of 3, 5, 8, 9,.10 and 11 being typical for the egg
masses. Incubation lasted from 4 to 5 days.
Larva: The larva on emergence measured about 0.13 mm. in
length. Locomotion and feeding in the larva was noticed immediately
after emergence. The apex of the anal segment is turned upwards
and the faeces are released little by little so that they covered the dorsal
part of the abdomen of the larva. The excreta are green and initiaily
very little in quantity, appearing as a speck on the abdomen. Gradually
they become heaped so as to form a protective covering for the larva.
During the course of its development the old faecal matter on the
abdomen gets discarded automatically and is left on the leaves and
fresh excreta are again deposited. The larva is a voracious feeder. It
grew to a length of about 0.54 mm., after which it pupated. The
larval period lasted about 15 days.
Pupa: Before pupation the protective covering of faeces is dis-
carded and ieeding is slow. The head of the pupa is pale brown and
the abdomen is very much enlarged and yellowish in colour. White
streaks of 2-3 mm. long appear all over the abdomen. The pupa
measured about 1.0x0.8 mm. and 1.2x0.8 mm. The pupal stage
lasted about 1y days, giving rise to the blue (elytra) adult.
The total number of days from egg to adult lasted about 39 days.
__.. Grateful thanks are due to the Director, Commonwealth Institute
of Entomology, London, for the determination of the insect species.
AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH STATION, G. C. SENGUPTA
BHUBANESWAR. -State Entomologist.
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY, By. BE UR A:
RAVENSHAW COLLEGE, |
Cuttack. ,
November 2, 1985. -
REFERENCES
Huston, J. C. (1937): Report of the work of the Entomological Division. Adm.
Rep. Dir. Agric. Ceylon 1936. pp. D22-D28. Colombo. Dec. 1937. (Rev. Appl. Ent.
26. Ser. A. (6): 358 (1988).
_Jacoby, M. (4908): The Fauna of British India. Coleoptera. Chrysomelidae.
Vol. I., London.
“Lefroy, H. M. (1909): Indian Insect Life, Calcutta. pp. 354-356.
Sengupta, G. C. (1952): Observations on Lema praeusta Fab. (Chrysomelidae)
as a pest of Turmeric. Proc. 39 Ind. Sc. Cong. (38): 324.
Sengupta, G. C. and Behura, B. K. (1953): Observations on the life-history of
Lema. signatipennis Jac. (Chrysomelidae) as a pest of Turmeric (Curcuma longa),
Proc. 40 Ind. Sc. Cong. (8): 198.
Sengupta, G. C. and Behura, B. K. (1955): Some new records of crop pests from
India. Indian J. Ent. 17: 288-285.
486 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
22. BEHAVIOUR OF BUTTERFLIES BEFORE OVIPOSITION
Recently, while going through the excellent series of articles
published in your journal by the late Mr. T. R. Bell on ‘Common
Butterflies of the Plains of India’, I came across a paragraph
[p. 679, Vol. 19 (3), 190g] containing what is most probably the first
description of the interesting phenomenon which I have called the
‘Drumming’ of the female butterfly pricr to oviposition. I myself
have described this reaction for some European butterflies (Aglais
urticae, Argynnis paphia, Pieris brassicae and Aporia crataegi; the
Swallowtails Papilio machaon and podalirius, and also for one
cosmopolitan species common in India, 1.e., Vanessa cardui, the Painted
Lady (see Sitzber. der naturf. Freunde, Berlin, 1934, Sitzber. der
dtsch. entomol. Ges. 7, 1937, and Nature 140, 1937), and have also
taken some cinematographic records of ‘drumming’ in urticae, paphia
and cardui. Up till now, I had only found one footnote in the literature
concerning this, by the late Prof. W. T. M. Forbes in Comstock’s
‘Introduction to Entomology’, 1924, p. 750, who mentioned the
‘drumming’ in some American Satirid’, and that only after my own
description had been published. But obviously the credit for the
discovery of the reaction must go to Bell, who wrote as early as 1909
with regard to Kuihalia garuda More, thus:
‘The female of this species when engaged in laying eggs may be
seen, if carefully watched, or heard hammering the leat-surfaces with
the imperfect frontlegs® before depositing an egg; E. lepida has also
been seen to do this.’
He further mentions that the food plants for the larvae of these
two species are mango and cashew-nut tree, and ‘Flame of the Forest’
respectively.
I have been fortunate insofar as I was in charge of large observa-
tion cages where conditions could be more or less controlied; in this
way, I have been able to watch the ‘drumming’ of female nymphalids
in detail which, having been brought up in the cage, had lost their
usual shyness. In these the ‘drumming’—a quick alternating tapping
on the surface of the leaf—is performed, as in Euthalia, with the
veduced pair of frontlegs, thrown out only for that occasion and
therefore easily distinguished. In Pierids and Papilionids, on the
other hand, where the ‘drumming’ is performed with normal
frontlegs, it was often possible to identify the reaction, not by sight,
but by sound alone. I have also seen a few female butterflies in the
process of ‘drumming’ in India, but unfortunately, have not got the
records with me here. It would be interesting to hear whether other
readers have observed this phenomenon, which should be easy in a
country with such a great wealth of butterflies breeding almost
throughout the year.
* According to a written communication by Dr. Forbes, the species was Basilarchia
astyanax, ovipositing on Tilia at Westborough, Mass., which was heard, then seen
tapping with the forelegs alternately on the leaf.
* The italics are mine. D. I.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 487
Bell (ibid.) then proceeds to give his interpretation of this peculiar
behaviour as follows:
“The reason . . . may be to frighten micro-ichneumons or spiders
Oi the leat 2.) =. }
Interesting though this suggestion may be, it seems to me that
some of my further observations do not support this idea; quite apart
from the fact that evidently such an effect as postulated by Bell, could
only be very temporary, and that nothing would prevent the parasite
or predator from returning to the same leaf within a few seconds,
in order to attack the newly laid eggs.
I should like to suggest that sufficient evidence has now been
accumulated in favour of my interpretation that the ‘drumming’ serves
to test the physical as well as the chemical properties of the leaf
surface, and particularly by the latter means, probably to identify the
species of the plant. In fact, some such device appears necessary,
unless we assume that the female butterfly selecting the food plant
of the larva, sometimes without ever having seen it before, is an
experienced botanist !
1. Testing ot physical properties:
Though 1 myself have not noticed that after ‘drumming’ the
butterfly selects a leaf of a certain consistency, it 1s quite imaginable
that this reaction helps her, e.g., to assess the degree of turgidity of
the leaf in question. The remark by M. Hering (in his ‘Biologie der
Schmetterlinge’, 1926), that female butterflies usually prefer those
leaves for laying their eggs which are neither too juicy nor too dried up,
seems to point in this direction.
2. Testing of chemical properties :
Here we seem to be on safer ground. In my observation cages
(built for the purpose in Germany as well as in England and in Poona),
time and again | have been able to fcllow a female butterfly with my
eyes on her ‘trial flight’ from leaf to leaf, during which she kept
drumming on a number of individual leaves belonging to various
plants, only to take off again immediately alter each ‘performance’.
This was continued for a long time, until at last, sometimes
apparently by chance, she reached one of the food plants of her larvae;
only then was the ‘drumming’ followed immediately by oviposition.
The female of the Cabbage White, Pieris brassicae, even used to ‘drum’
on any green or bluish-green surface, be it a watering-can, a dress or
a piece of paper, as well as on ali kinds of leaves; but only after she
had reached a cabbage leaf, or a leaf of some other crucifer, would
the ‘drumming’ be followed by her settling down to oviposition. if
the food plant happened to have been removed from the cage altogether,
then the female would occasionally lay some eggs on the ‘wrong’
plant, e.g., Papilio machaon or even, in rare cases, on green paper
(unpublished observation by U. G. Vaidya with a female of the Indian
Papilio demoleus in our observation cage in Poona). Perhaps most
convincing of all is the observation that the female of the European
Silver-washed Fritillary, Avgynnis paphia, after having ‘drummed’
12
488 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
extensively on the food plant of her larva—a forest violet—nevertheless
will not deposit her eggs on that plant at all; instead, she wili
immediately ty to the nearest tree trunk and oviposit on it, inserting
the tip of her abdomen into the crevices of the bark. Since no
‘drumming’ has ever been observed to occur at this actual place ot
oviposition, Bell’s explanation cannot be applied to this case. (In the
meantime, my own observation, undertaken in a cage, has been fully
confirmed in the open by Dietrich Magnus in Tibinger.) Incidentally,
the biological effect of this involved instinctive response is beautifully
clear; through it, the female avoids laying her eggs on the summer
leaves of the “ites. which would not provide sufhicient protection for
the caterpillar hatching in autumn, against the vicissitudes of a
European winter; instead, she lays them in the bark where they can
hide, but only of such trees as are close enough to the violet to allow
the hungry caterpillars to find their way to the food quickly in the
following spring. 1 wonder whether a comparable instinct may exist
in some Indian fritillary or other butterflies whose caterpillars may
have to undergo a resting period ?
Poona, ch eakruy fo ae WOK ABIES Is
December 27, 1955... |
oa
LITERATURE.
Bell, Abs 15 (COD) z Common: Butterflies of the Plains of India JBNHS, 19 (3).
‘Ilse, Dora (1934): Ueber das Sehen der Insekten, besonders der pees in:
Sitz ber. der Ges. naturf. Freunde, Berlin.
— -— — (1937): ‘Aus dem. Leben der Schmetterlinge’ “(ake Film). Sitz. ber. d.
Deutschen Entomol. Ges.
— —- — (1937): New response to colours in egg laying butterflies. Nature, 140.
Magnus, Dietrich (1950): Beobachtungen zur Balz und Eiablage des Kaisermantels
Argynnis. paphia L. ees -,. Nymphalidae) Zt. Tierpsychologie, T (3).
— 23. TERMITES FROM NEAR BAGHDAD, IRAQ...
_ During the Field Museum Spear to the Near East, 1936, 1
eases some termites. from near Baghdad. - Determination — by
Professor Alfred Emerson of the University of Chicago identifies them
as Microcerolermes diversus Silvestri, a species described in 1920 from
Amara on the lower reaches of the Tigris.
Emerson writes: ‘As far as I know, the species has not been
reported from any other locality since that time. I had cotype
winged specimens in my collection, but no soldiers. I had a soldier
from Jerusalem determined by R. G. Temple of the British Museum.
as this species, but careful comparison proves the Jerusalem specimens
to be a new species. The specimens you collected agree perfectly
with the originai description and drawings.’
COCONUT GROVE,
FLORIDA, he hee F Fark HENRY FIELD
November. 2,-1955.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 439
24. SHEEP AS ANEW HOST OF THE VICK, DERMACENTOR
AURATUS SUPiINO (FAMILY IXODIDAE)!
A collection of ticks made from sheep and sent to the Zoological
Survey of lndia by Sri R. D. Katiyar, Assistant Disease Investigation
Otticer (Sheep & Goat), Animal tlusbandry Department, U.P.,
Lucknow, has been identified as follows:
1. Boophilus australis (Fuller)
2. Rhipicephalus haemapiysatoides Supino
3. Haemaphysalis bispinosa Neumann
4. Dermacentor auratus Supino
The first three species are well-known for their occurrence on
sheep and goat, while the last, Dermacentor auratus Supino, com-
prising a male and a female specimen collected trom sheep at the
Central Sheep and Wool Kesearch Station, Pashulok-Rishikesh, Dehra
Dun District (U.P.), in July 1954 Is interesting in as much as it is
recorded here for the first time trom sheep.
Sharif (1928) commented on the taxonomy, distribution and hosts
of D. auratus, and Sen (1938) has given an exhaustive list of hosts
of this widely distributed Oriental species. In neither of the above-
mentioned works nor in later literature is there any reference to sheep
or goat as a host of D. auratus.
D. auratus is a well-known pest of wild animals and has been 0)
far recorded trom Borneo (oli Polamochoerus larvatus F. Cuv.); Java
(off Sus vittatus Temm.); Sumatra (off wild pig); Carin- age and
Mooleyet in Burma (off Ursus torquatus Wagn. and Sus cristatus
Wagn.); Ceylon (off bear) and Nias (off pig). In India it is recorded
from Nagabera, Goalpara District, Assam (off wild boar); Naihati,
Bengal (olf Geer); Calcutta (off man); Singhbhum District, Bihar (off
wild pig); Chandan Chowki (off Felis pardus Linn.) and Bhowali (found
on the clothing of a man on his return from the jungle) both in the
Naini Tal District, Uttar Pradesh; Songra in the Gonda District (off
Melursus ursinus); Helvak, Koyna Valley (host unknown) and Nechal,
Western Ghats (host unknown), both in the Satara District, Bombay
State.
Its accidental transport or attachment from one host to another
or even to the clothes of human beings traversing grazing land of
wild animals is not unknown as will be evident from the distribution
of the species and its hosts given above. However, in the present
instance, as the specimens were collected from a controlled stock of
sheep and as one of the specimens (female, length 9.5 mm, aad
width 7.8 mm.) was gorged with blood, we are led to think that it is
also equally capable of sustaining itself on sheep.
Kouwenaar and Wolf (1934) were able to produce rickettsiosis
experimentally in guinea-pig in Sumatra by inoculating suspensions
of crushed examples of Devmacentor auratus Supino and “Rhipicephalus
haemaphysaloides Supino, collected from wild pigs. Sharif {1938) has
identified on numerous occasions nymphs of D. auratus collected from
man at the School of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene, Calcutta, and
he suspects that D. auratus is the real vector of the tick-typhus fever
1 Published with the permission of the Director, Zoological Survey of India.
490 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
in India and that R. haemaphysaloides may play some part in the
transmission of the disease.
The author is deeply grateful to Dr. ‘A. P. Kapur for his instruc-
tion and help in this piece of work.
ENTOMOLOGICAL ASSISTANT, :
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA, G. MATHAI
CALCUTTA,
October 27, 1955.
REFERENCES
Sharif, M. (1928): Rec. Indian Mus., 30: 291-297.
— — — (1938): Indian J. Vet. Sci. 1: 356-357.
Sen, P. (1938): Jndian J. Vet. Sct. 7: 133-147.
Kouwenaar, W. and Wolf, J. W. (1934): Geneesk. Tijdschr. Ned. Ind. 14: 1659.
APPENDIX MASCULINA OF PALAEMON LAMARREI
H. MILNE-EDWARDS!
On
(With a texi-figure)
In all the known species of Palaemon Fabr. (=Macrobrachinm
Bate) the males are distinguished from females, in addition to other
\\ \\\ | | H
b
Second pleopods in male of: (a) Palaemon carcinus (after Holthius),x4; (b)
Palaemon lamarrei, X 20.
1 Published with the permission of the Director, Zoological Survey of India,
Calcutta, .
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 491
characters, by the presence of an appendix masculina on the endopod
of the second pleopod.
The appendix masculina presents a more or less uniform ‘structure
in all the Indian species of Palaemon examined by me except Palaemon
lamarret H. Milne-Edwards. It consists of an elongate, thin appendage
arising from the angle formed by the junction of the appendix interna
with the inner border of the endopod. In most of the species this
structure, though longer than the appendix interna, fails to reach the
apex of endopod by a considerable margin, and it is copiously provided
with stiff hairs (fig. a).
The appendix masculina of -Palaemon Imarrei (fig. b) differs from
that of other species in the following features :
1. In the fully developed stage it is a long structure, in the usual
position, extending as far as the apex of the endopod or even slightly
exceeding beyond it.
2. Its apex is slightly inflated, and is provided with about half a
dozen stiff hairs. In addition its inner edge has five or six scattered
erect marginal hairs in the upper two-thirds of its length.
The only other recorded instance where the appendix masculina
extends almost up to the end of apex of endopod is the figure of the
second pleopod of a 25 mm. long male identified by Kubo! as Palaemon
boninensis Stimpson. In this case, the structure appears to be more
jairy than in P. lamarrei.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA,
CALCUTTA. KRISHNA KANT TIWARI
Octovereishe loss:
26. REPRODUCTION OF THE NOTOSTRACA?
The Phyllopod Crustacean (Triops orientalis) is extremely common
in the rainwater pools on the Tableland of Panchgani, 4,378 [t.,
(Satara District, Bombay), but nothing is known regarding its habits
or breeding. It may therefore be of interest to draw attention to a
note on the “Reproduction and Cytology of the Notostraca’ by Alan
R. Longhurst, Bedford College, University of London, on pages
671-680 (Volume 125) of the Proceedings of the Zoological Society of
London for November 1955.
Both bisexual and hermaphrodite reproduction occur. The
copulation of Tviops cancriformis has been described by other authors
and is said to be ‘a rapid process, in which the male approaches the
female laterally, and arches its body so that it grips that of the female
in such a way that the ventral surfaces of the posterior regions of the
thorax are opposed; for a few seconds the male moves convulsively,
and then breaks away.
‘Isolated hermaphrodite females readily lay viable eggs’, but ‘in
bisexual populations copulation is necessary before the females will
1 Kubo, I., J. Imp. Fish. Inst. Tokyo, 34, No. 1, p. 17. Fig. 9 (1940).
2 Published with the permission of the Director, Zoological Survey of India,
492 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
pass eggs into the brood pouches; females of such populations of
Triops granarius and T. australiensis will lay no eggs in the absence.
of males’.
Triops orientalis of India is bisexual though the sex ratio is not
known with certainty. No information is available about the structure
and cytology of gonads in this species.
It is hoped that students in India will study this interesting
problem which may throw light on the taxonomic status of this species
which is regarded by Longhurst as a synonym of T. granarius.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA,
CALcumTA, KRISHNA KANT TIWARI
January 2, 1956.
27. BRANCHING IN ARECA PALM, ARECA CATECHU lL.
(With a photo)
Branching is the rule in the aerial stem of Doum-palm (Hyphaene
thebaica) and a few other species of this genus. The stem in this
plant forks several times in succession, which appear like dichotomies.
These are not true dichotomies but the result of ‘the development of
an axillary bud into a branch equal in strength to the main stem’
(Rendle, 1953). Branching in cther palms is exceptional, and reports
of this phenomenon have been recently made for Cocos nucifera
(Vélez, 1954) and Elais guineensis (Lesage, 1955). Further, it has
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 493
been pointed out by Rendle (1953) that branching in palms may be
caused as a result of injury to the terminal bud or due to replacement
of flowering buds by leafy shocts.
During a recent field trip it was observed in a private garden at
Kuppahalli, Krishnarajpet Taluk, Mandya District, Mysore State, that
a specimen of Arecanut palm (Areca catechu L.) had three branches in
all. The branches show normal growth and yield. The ‘plant
is 20 years old and 28 ft. in height. On enauiry it was learnt that
the branches appeared 8 years ago, and to start with it had a single
crown of leaves, as the other plants in the garden.
The three branches with their crown of leaves surround a central
stump, which is about + a foot from the uppermost branch; the
branches appear just above leaf scars at intervals of 14 to 2 inches.
The branching may be due to an injury to the apical bud, which is
now represenied as a stump, or may be the result of further develop-
ment of axillary buds in the distal region into healthy lateral shoots
thus replacing the apical crown.
Botany DEPARTMENT, ©
ST. PHILOMENA’s COLLEGE, B. N. NARAYANA RAO
Mysore, K. H. KRISHNA MURTHY
November 3, 1955. -_-B. §. VENKATAKRISHNIAH
28. _PTERIDOPHYTES OF COOCH BEHAR
-Cooch Behar is a representative part of the North Bengal plain near
the foothills of the eastern part of the- Himalayas. It is situated
at 26° 190’ N. and 89° 30° E. The place is 145 ft. above sea level;
the yearly rainfall is about .120 inches. The climate of the place is hot
and humid; the temperature varies from 45°F. to 103°F. The soil is
loamy to sandy and remains moist throughout the year. Epiphytic
and terrestrial ferns are abundant. One of them is an uncontrollable
weed. Sea
Carl Christensen’s ‘Index Filicum’. is followed in most cases for
naming the ferns, and synonyms from Beddome’s ‘Ferns of British
India’ are quoted for the convenience of those who follow the latter. As
for other pteridophytes Baker’s ‘Fern Allies’ is followed. )
FERNS
ils Ophioglossum reticulatum Linn. Beddome p. 464.
- Terrestrial, collected with spike during the rains. Found growing
abundantly in meadows.
2. Lygodium flexuosum (L.) Sw. |
LL. flexuosum Sw. Beddome p. 457.
~~ Large pinnately divided leaves are found climbing on shrubs and
small trees. Abundantly distributed.
494, JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
3. Lygodium japonicum Sw. Beddome p. 457.
Less common than L. flexuosum. Intermediate leaf forms are
found and it is very difficult to separate the species from L. flexuosum.
Possibly L. japonicum is a form of L. flexuosum.
4, Adiantum capillus-veneris Linn. Beddome p. 84.
Collected from damp shady regions. Abundantly found.
5, Adiantum lunulatum Burm. Beddome p. 82.
Semilunar pinnae obliquely attached to the rachis. Fronds pro-
pagate by rooting at the tips. Found growing on damp soil together
with the former species. ‘Abundant.
6, Cyclophorus adnascens (Sw.) Desv.
Pyrrosia adnascens Copeland. Copeland, Genera Filicum.
Niphobolus adnascens (Polypodium aduascens Sw.). Beddome
Pe325-
Epiphytic, abundantly found on trees. Rhizome creeping, much
elongated.
7, Cystopteris setosa Bedd. Beddome p. 7o.
Terrestrial, erect plants. Somewhat membranous fronds, tripin-
nate. Less commonly found.
8. Diplazium esculentum (Retz) Sw.
Anisogonium esculentum Presl. Beddome p. 102.
Rhizome stout and erect. Terrestrial with large, much divided
fronds. This is an uncontrollable weed growing everywhere. Young
leaves are taken as vegetable by local people.
9, Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J.Sm. Beddome p. 341.
Epiphytic, most prominent fern flora on the trees, with dimorphic
leaves.
10. Dryopteris prolifera (Retz) C.Chr.
Polypodium pvoliferum Roxb. Prain, D. Bengal Plants.
Scandent plants, fronds rooting at the tips and branching profusely
from the axils of pinnae.
11, Dryopteris subpubescens (BI.) C.Chr.
Nephrodium molle Desv. Beddome p. 277.
Terrestrial plant with large fronds pilose on both surfaces.
Fronds membranous in texture. Sori smaller in number. Commonly
found. ;
12. Dryopteris unita (1) O. Ktze.
Nephrodium cucullatum Bl. Beddome p. 270.
Found commonly. Fronds coriaceous, pubescent beneath. Sori
profuse. Fronds about 5 ft. tall,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 495
13, Leptochilus axillaris (Cav.) Kf.
Acrostichum axillare Cav. Prain, D. Bengal Plants.
Gymnopteris variabilis var. axillaris Cav. Beddome p. 429.
Eiphytic, rhizome creeping on tree trunks, flat, green in younger
parts. Fronds membranous, about one foot long.
14, Polypodium'clathratum Clarke.
Pleopeltis clathvata Clarke. Beddome p. 348.
Found growing on shady moist walls. Fronds small membranous.
15. Polypodium lineare var. simplex Hook.
Pleopeliis simplex Sw. Beddome p. 347.
Found rarely. Epiphytic with large fronds. —
(Identification of the specimen is doubtful as sori were not found).
16. Pteris biaurita Linn.
Campleria biaurita Pr. Beddome p. 116.
Rarely found. ‘Terrestrial.
17, Pteris longifolia Linn. Beddome p. 106.
Found growing in abundance, specially in the crevices of old
moist brick walls.
18, Stenochlaena palustris (Burm.) Bedd. Beddome p. 4a2t.
Acrostichum palustre Bedd. Piain, D. Bengal plants.
Covers the whole of the host plant, so that the host seems to he a
fern plant itself. Fertile pinnae very much reduced.
19, Ceratopteris thalictroides (1..) Brong. Beddome p. 123.
Grows abundantly on damp soil. Found in the rainy season.
20. Marsilea quadrifoliata Linn.
Found growing in the ponds, marshes and moist lands; abundant,
Leaves used as vegetable. Soporiferous.
FERN ALLIES
1. Psilotum triquetrum Sw.
A few plants are found growing on Polyalthia longifolia along with
an orchid (Dendrobium sp.) in the main park. [| Possibly this has come
here from the south along with the orchid collection. Found to be
growing there without the knowledge of the nursery men].
2, Selaginella ciliaris (Retz) Spreng.
S. proniflora Baker.
Very small plants, a few centimetres long. Spikes with two types
of spores. Found growing on damp and shady soil or wall. —
3. Selaginella serpens Spreng’.
Plants with much branched stem. A blue tinge is found on the
upper surfaces of the leaves. Growing on damp soil,
496 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIRTY, Vol. 53
4, Equisetum debile Roxb.
Found in river beds and other shady moist regions.
I wish to thank Dr. S. K. Mukerjee of Indian Botanical Gardens.
Calcutta, for his valuable help.
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGY,
VICTORIA COLLEGE, Kk. C. BISWAS
Coocn BEHAR,
REFRRENECES
1. Carl Christensen. : Index Filicum.
2. Beddome, R. H.: Ferns of British India.
3. Prain, D. : Bengal Plants Vol. II.
4. Copeland, E. B.: Genera Filicum.
5. Baker, J. G.: Fern Allies.
6. Backer, C. A. and Posthumus: O. Varen flora Voor Java.
7. Stewart, R. R.:; The 180th Anniversary Volume of the R. B. Gardens, Calcutta
9
1942, p. 159.
29. THE TAXONOMIC VALUE OF THE ANDROECIUM IN
THE GENUS CASSIA
The genus Cassia shows a great diversity in the characters of its
androecium. These characters together with those of the fruit have
been used in splitting this large genus into three subgenera namely
Fistula, Lasiorhegma and Senna (Engler and Prantl, 1894). The
subgenera have been further divided into several sections. Some
systematists are inclined to raise the three subgenera to independent
generic status, while others prefer to treat them under the same
genus. |
Detailed investigations by me of species representing all the sub-
genera have revealed a number of characters of the stamens and
anthers which could be used to great advantage in the diagnosis of
the various species. The characters in question pertain to gross
features, structure and the mode . of dehiscence of the «anthers.
Occasionally there exists a certain degree of variability within the
limits of a few species but usually the entire androecium or some
features of it are quite typical or characteristic of a species.
The taxonomic value of the characters of the anther, where they are
widely variable, is quite well recognised in families like the Melastoma-
ceae and the Ericaceae. Whereas in these families it is the different
genera which show characteristic modifications of the anther and
filament, in the case of Cassia such variability 1s well pronounced
intragenerically among the different species. The following key, which
comprises the thirteen species investigated in the present instance, is
intended to indicate the utility of such characters for the purpose of |
the systematic delimitation of the species.
A. Stamens all fertile and antheriferous.
B. Stamens markedly dissimilar in
length of filament, size and
form of the anthers. Anthers
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
of the outer whorl dehiscing by
incomplete longitudinal _ slits,
those of the inner whorl by
sub-basal pores at the ends of
thecal spurs. A typical fibrous
hypodermis present (Subgenus
Fistula).
Cre ilamentsamot) ther threes tall
anterior stamens with pro-
minent nodulose Suede
about the middle.
CC. Filaments of the three tall rei ior
BB.
stamens without swellings.
D. ‘The filaments of these three
stamens broadly flattened.
DD. The filaments of these three
stamens slender and filiform.
Stamens similar or dissimilar only
in size. Anthers with broad
flattened bilobed tips with
mucronate apices and dehiscing
by two sub-apical chinks which
continue downwards as _ lateral
sutures lined by intercoiled
epidermal hairs which give the
sides of the anther a_ shaggy,
bearded or stitched-up appear-
ance. A typical fibrous layer is
wanting but a few epidermal
cells may show fibrous thicken-
ings (Subgenus Lasiorhegma).
C. Stamens 5, sometimes more,
subequal.
CC. Stamens 10, alternately long nea
AA.
B.
BB.
short.
Stamens rarely all fertile and antheri-
ferous, usually the three posterior
and sometimes the one anterior also
reduced to staminodes ending in
sterile blades. Dehiscence of anthers
occurring by 1-2 apical or subapical
chinks or pores. The hypodermis
not fibrous (Subgenus Senna).
Fertile stamens 10, anthers dehisc-
ing by 2 short subapical chinks.
Lateral sutures present alone the
whole length of every anther.
Fertile stamens less than 1o,
usually 7, the rest staminodes.
C. nodosa Ham.
C. fistula L.
C. marginata Roxh,
Co GISNS Mn,
C. mimosoides J..
and
C. kleiniti W. & A.
C. glauca Lam.
498 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
C.
oS
2S
oS
Se.
Se
22S
Ss:
Uf IN,
PUAN ONG
URNS
XOX)
25
SeekGRUU!
M '
i
i
!
| (
pilfsanarasttie
|
|
Text-figs. 1-6.—Fig.1, Melosira dubia Kiitz., girdle-view, showing punctae stria-
tions. Fig. 2, Melosira juergenst Ag., girdle-view, showing punctae striations.
Fig. 3, Melosira sulcata (Ehrenb.) Kitz. girdle-view. Fig. 4, Pordosira montagne
Ktitz. valve-view, showing the system of striations. Fig. 5, Hyalodiscus subtilis
Bailey, valve-view. Fig. 6, MHyalodiscus scoticus (Kttz.) Grun., girdle-view.
(All X 2800).
(||
hy
i
|
—=— —
540 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
6. Hyalodiscus scoticus (Ktitz.)Grun, Hustedt, op. cit., p. 293, figs. 131
and 133, 1930b.
Frustules linked in short chains lens-shaped with convex sheli. Shell
membrane striated, striations parallel and punctate (text-fig. 5).
Diam. frustule, 30-33 w.
Height of the half shell 8-9.
Striations, 12-14 in 10.
The form agrees closely with the type, but the striations and the punc-
tae are bigger in the present diatom.
Habitat : Dwarka, Porbandar. Epiphytic on Polystpbhonia.
7. Coscinosira oestrupii Ostenfeld. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 318, fig. 155,
1930b.
Frustules bound in long chains, gelatinous ring being always present
between two frustules, middle band very distinct. Frustules short, cylin-
drical with flat or slightly arched shell. Disc strongly areoled, areoles
smaller near the rim. Marginal spines of the disc absent, shell mantel is
pervalvar band. Striped striations in the girdle band (text-fig. 7).
Diam. frustule, 10u.
Areole, 9 in 10u.
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat : Dwarka, Veraval, Bombay. Epiphytic on Cladophora.
8. Thalassiosira tropica sp. nov.
Frustules linked in long chains, drum-shaped, octagonal in outline.
Disc flat with hollow centre, punctae striated. Punctae in the middle
irregular, but radially arranged towards the edge. On the disc margin
spines are present. Spines minute and remote (text-fig. 8).
Diam. frustule, 29-331.
Striations, 8-9 in 10.
Punctae, 9-10 in 10u.
The Indian diatom resembles TZhalasstostra nordenskioldi Clev.
(Hustedt, op. cit., p. 321, fig. 157, 1930b.), due to its drum-like octagonal
form in the girdle-view. It further resembles the same on account of
possessing spines on the margins, and punctae striations on the surface of
the frustules in valve-view. It, however, differs from the same in having
much smaller spines on the rim and lesser number of punctae striations on
its valves, which are 8-9 in 10 in the present diatom, while they are 16-18
in 10” in J. nordenskioldi, besides the punctae are much bigger. More-
over, 7. novdenskioldi occurs in the colder regions of the European seas
and polar waters, whereas, the present form is found in the tropical sea.
Habitat; Porbandar. Epiphytic on Cawlerpa.
Accedit ad T. xordenskioldi Clev. forma octogona tympanacea, spinu-
lis ad margines atque striis punctorum; ab ea tamen differt spinulis
minoribus, striarum numero minori(in praesenti specie 8—9 in 10u, in
altera vero specie 16—18) punctis multo majoribus, distributione tropi-
cali (7. nordenskioldé vero invenitur tantum in regionibus articis vel in
frigidioribus partibus Europae).
9, Cyclotella meneghiniana Kititz. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 341, fig. 174,
1930b.
Frustules flat disc-shaped. Shell with radially ribbed distinct mar-
gin, striations strong, wedge-shaped, uniform throughout. The central
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 541
area appears ordinarily smooth but under very high magnification shows
fine punctate striations, (text-fig. 9).
Diam. frustule, 15-17,«.
Striations, 9 in 10y.
The form agrees weil with the type.
Habitat : Dwarka. -Epiphytic on Polysiphonia.
10. Coscinodiscus finicus Sp. nov.
Frustules discoid flat, slightly depressed in the centre, with the margin
faintly sloping. Disc plain with polygonal, six-sided (Hexagonal) areoles,
areole big arranged in three systems of tangential rows. Areole row
arched in one shell, in the other shell of a different frustule the disc
possesses perfectly straight tangential row of areoles, that is, the system
of areole is one and is straight tangential.
The margin of both the types of discs is striated, and the striations are
strong and parallel. A ring of minute spines is also present on the disc
margin (text-fig. 10),
Diam. frustule, 36-39.
Punctae in the centre, 3-9 in 10u.
Striations in the margin, 8-10 in 10x,
The Indian diatom closely resembles Coscinodiscus excentricus Ehrenb.
(Hustedt, op. cit., p. 388, fig. 201, 1930 b) in general structure. It, how-
ever, differs from the same in having finer punctae, which in the present
form are 3-9 in 10” whereas, they are 3-5 in 10u in C. excentricus.
Further, the present diatom possesses much closer striation on the margin.
Habitat : Dwarka, Veraval, Bombay. Epiphytic on Cladophora.
Nova species accedit ad C. excentricum Ehrenb. structura generali, ab
eo tamen differt punctis minoribus, numero 3-9 in 10u (in C. excentrico
3-5 in 10) atque striis marginalibus propius dispositis.
11. Coscinodiscus bathyomphalus Cleve. Hustedt, op. cit. p. 431,
fig. 234, 1930 b.
Disc with a large circular areoled area. Areole big, spirally arranged.
Outside the circular area, the disc plain is radially areoled, with hyaline
intercalary spaces between the areole row. Margin striated, striations fine.
Indistinct minute spines present on the margin (text-fig. 11).
Diam. frustule, 27-30.u.
Areole of the disc, 15 in 10x.
Areole in the centre, 15 in 10u.
Striations of the margin, 20 in 10x.
The Indian diatom closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Porbandar. Epiphytic on Bryopsis.
12. Triceratium robertsianum Grey. var, dwarkensum yar. nov.
Frustules triangular in valve-view. Shell with an arched valve, which
is convex on the margin, areole of the valvar plain closely fitting and
irregularly distributed, sides perforated and spiny. Primary membrane
radially striated. Apophysis of the shell remarkably strong. Frustules
in zig-zag chains bound by means of gelatinous stalks situated between the
neighbouring apophysis or processes (text-fig. 12).
Long. frustule, 105.
Areole, 4 in 10u.
542 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The Indian form agrees well with Zyviceratium robertsianum Grev. in
its general features (Hustedt, op. cit., p. 803, fig. 466, 1930b), but it
differs from the same in having irregular instead of the regular arrange-
ment of the areoles in its valve-view. Further, the areoles in the present
form are much bigger than those of the type.
Habitat : Dwarka. Epiphytic on Polysiphonia.
Accedit ad speciem typicam multis in notis; ab ea tamen differt
irregulari dispositione areolarum, atque areolis multo majoribus.
13. Triceratium spinosum Bailey, forma tetragona Hust. Hustedt, op.
cit., p. 806, fig. 468, 1930b.
Frustules tetragonal, sides concave, apophysis elongated. Valve-view
areoled, areoles hexagonal. Margin striated. Apex of the apophysis
smooth. Minute thorns present on the margin (text-fig. 13).
Long. frustule, 30-34.
Areole, 3 in 10u.
Striations, 4 in 10u.
The form agrees well with the forma type.
Habitat: Porbandar. Epiphytic on the disc of Codiwm.
14. Triceratium dubium Brightw. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 806, fig. 469,
1930b.
Frustules bound in zig-zag chains, triangular, with concavity on all
sides, middle area broad with areoles irregularly arranged. Areoles of
different sizes, inner side perforated. Membrane areole punctate, base
with radially striated margin. Apophysis cone-shaped, attenuated, having
areoled apex, and strongly built (text-fig. 14).
Long. frustule, 33-35.
Areole of the membrane, 5 in 101.
Marginal striations, 8 in 10y.
The present form agrees well with the type.
Habitat : Dwarka, Bombay. Epiphytic on Polyszphonta.
15. Triceratium pentacrinus (E.) Waliich, forma quadrata Hust. Hus-
tedt, op. cit., p. 814, fig. 475, 1930b.
Frustules in zig-zag chains, shell flat with quadrangular valve, sides con-
cave, middle portion of the valve convex. Apophysis very short. Valvar
wall areoled with radially arranged ribs net, areole round and radially dis-
posed, towards the outside in quincunx. Margin with short striations,
minute thorns in the middle. Apices of the apophysis smooth (text-fig, 15).
Long. shell, 80-901.
Areole of the middie portion, 6 in 10u.
Areole of the apophysis, 10 in 10z.
Marginal striations, 10-12 in 10u.
The torm closely resembles the type.
Habitat : Dwarka, Porbandar. Epiphytic on the disc of Codium.
16. Triceratium balearicum Cleve et Grun. forma biquadrata (Janisch)
Hust. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 815, fig. 477, 1930b.
Frustules arranged in zig-zag chain, flat with quadrangular valve
having concave sides, the middle region of the valve convex, apophysis
short. Frustule wall of the shell areoled, and provided with ribs arranged
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 543
i; ne —_
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PAN
son
588 ZS)
80
Qo
o
°
O
Q
H
‘O*%
°
00° 000
900900 %
900008000
002200089
0900
0059898
6
Text-figs. 7-13.—Fig. 7, Coscinosira oestrupii Ostenfeld, valve-view. Fig. 8,
Thalassiosiva tropica- sp. nov. a disc in valve-view, showing arrangement of punctae.
Fig. 9, Cyclotella meneghiniana Kitz. valve-view. Fig. 10, Coscinodiscus finicus
sp. nov., valve-view, showing hexagonal areoles. Fig. 11, Coscinodiscus bathyom-
phalus Clev. valve view. Fig. 12, Zvriceratium robertsianum Clev. var. dwar-
kensum var. nov. valve-view, showing areoles. Fig.13, 7viceratinm spinosum Bailey
forma ¢etragona Hust., valve-view, (All X 2800).
544 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
radially throughout. Areoles rounded in radial rows, near the edges
quincunxially arranged and distantly situated. Basal shell margin beset
with continuous strong radial striae. Apex of the apophysis smooth
(text-fig. 16).
Long. frustule, 60-68 1.
Areole in the middle part, 6-7 in 10 p.
Areole in the apophysis, 6 in 104.
Striations of the margin, 7-10 in 10x.
The form agrees well with type.
Habitat ; Porbandar, Veraval. Epiphytic on Cladophora.
17, Biddulphia pulchella Gray. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 832, fig. 490, 1930b.
Frustules adhering in zig-zag chain. Valves elliptical, spinose, angles
of the apical axis produced into rounded process. Valves provided with
long sutures. Frustules pseudozygomorphic. Angles of the valve distinctly
structured with perforations, the edges of the valve slightly silicious,
otherwise strongly silicified. Cell membrane areoled, areoles big, rounded
and free from each other. Margin of the frustules undulating. Middle
portion of the valve elevated. Girdle band likewise areoled, but the areoles
here are much finer, arranged in rows. Areoles of the processes also very
fine (text-fig. 17). |
Long. apical axis, 90-150,
Long. transapical axis, 111-120u.
Areole of the membrane, 5 in 10u.
Areole of the process, 20 in 10u.
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Dwarka. Eniphytic on Bryopsts.
18, Biddulphia rhombus (Ehrenb.) Smith. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 842,
figs. 496, 497, 1930b.
Valve elliptic-lanceolate, processes lorn-shaped, twisted, valve plain
convex, sloping near the margin, wall of the valve strongly silicious,
areoled throughout, areoles arranged in quincunx. Short spines attached
to the margin. Girdle-view rectangular. Girdle band areoled, the areoles
are smaller (text-fig. 13).
Long. apical axis, 65-72u.
Long. transapical axis, 59-71y.
Areoie of the valve, 8 in 10x.
Areole of the girdle band, 12 in 10x.
The form resembles the type closely.
Habitat: Porbandar. Epiphytic on the disc of Ulva.
19, Biddulphia aurita (Lyngb.) Brébisson et Godey. Hustedt, op. cit.,
p. 846, fig. 501, 1930b. |
Frustules bound in zig-zag chains, individual frustule barrel-shaped.
Valve elliptical-lanceolate with a long pervalvar axis... Valvar plain in the
middle portion convex, sloping in the margin, possessing two awl-shaped
spines, poles of the apical axis horn-like, obtuse, slightly twisted at the
apex and inflated in the base. Wall of the valve strongly silicious.
Membrane areoled punctate, the punctae are big, round and free from
each other, and are arranged radially. ‘The areoles of the girdle band
WEST COAST 545
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE
© co9Fp0 0000 09
9 0099000 090
oe co00 gs000 O98
2 G200 99000
Text-figs. 14-17.—Fig. 14, Triceratium dubium Brightw., valve-view. Fig. 15,
Triceratium pentacrinus (E.) Wallich. forma guadrata, Hust., valve-view. Fig. 16,
Triceratium baleavicum Clev. and Grun., forma 6iguadrata (Janisch) Hust., valve-
view. Fig. 17, Biddulphia pulchella Gray, girdle-view. (14 and 16, x 2800; 15, x
1400 ; 17, x 1530).
The processes are also areoled likewise.
arranged in straight rows.
Apical portion of the processes are smooth (text-fig. 19).
546 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Long. apical axis, 50-59 .u.
Long. traasapical axis, 20-39u.
Areole of the membrane, 9 in 10u.
Areole of the process, 10 in 10x.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Bombay. Epiphytic on the disc of Padzna.
20, Biddulphia levis Ehrenb. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 852, fig. 506, 1930b.
Valve cylindrical, pervalvar axis much elongated, valvar plain convex,
processes greatly reduced, valve throughout areoled. Areoles in very
fine rows, middle area of the valve with irregularly arranged areoles
(text-fig. 20). 3
Long. apical axis, 62.
Long. transapical axis, 52u.
Areole in the valve, 18 in 10u.
The Indian diatom closely resembles the type.
Habitat : Dwarka. Veraval. Epiphytic on the pinna of Bryopsts.
21. Rhabdonema indicum gp. nov.
Frustules cemented with gelatinous cushion into long ribbons, linear
in valve-view, and rectangular in girdle-view, with rounded edges, and long
intercalary bands. Short apical and broad transapical septa are present.
Valves round at the poles, linear, with three apertures, one central and
two polar. Valvar plain with transapical rows extending throughout the
breadth. Shell margin possesses minute pores, mantel plain with ribs of
fine areole-punctae (text-fig. 21).
Long. frustule, 72-120.u,
Lat. frustule, 51-581.
Transapical rows, 5 in 10w.
Transapical areole, 10 in 10u,
The Indian diatom resembles Rhabdonema adriaticum Kitz. (Hustedt,
op. cit., p. 23, fig. 552, 1931-32) on account of its rectangular frustules in
the girdle-view, and in possessing intercalary band with transapical septa.
But it differs from the same in having much broader frustules, possessing
bigger transapical rows. It further differs from the same in possessing
more prominent intercalary bands than the type.
Habitat: Dwarka. Epiphytic on the thallus of Padzna.
Accedit ad Rk. adriaticum Kitz. frustulis rectangularibus, zona inter-
calari atque septis transapicalibus ; ab eo tamen differt frustulis latioribus,
amplioribus seriebus transapicalibus, zona intercalari prominentiore.
22. Grammatophora angulosa Ehrenb. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 39, fig. 564,
1931-32.
Frustules in zig-zag chains, rectangular, round-edged. Septa curved,
the inner end is hooked. Shell mantel and the intercalary band bridged
with distinct line. Shell linear-elliptical with slightly convex sides, flat
round apices, polar area hyaline. Transapical striations punctate, in long
straight intercrossing rows (text-fig. 23).
Long. frustule, 16”.
Lat. frustule, 10..
Transapical striations 12-16 in 10xu.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Bombay. Epiphytic on Cladophora.
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 547
23, Grammatophora hamulifera Kiitz. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 40, fig. 566,
1931-32.
Frustules bound in zig-zag chains, rectangular with round edges,
possessing two intercalary bands. Septa strongly folded, curved at the
base and hooked behind. In the girdle-view the septa appear characteris-
tically C-shaped. Shell linear-elliptic with flat round edges, convex on the
sides. Membrane with long straight intercrossing rows of transapical
punctae. Pseudoraphe distinct and close. Hyaline polar area present
(text-fiys. 24a and b).
Long. frustule, 32°5..
Lat. frustule, 171.
Transapicai striations, 17 in 10.
Except for the greater breadth of its frustules, the Indian diatom
resembles the type closely.
Habitat: Porbandar. Epiphytic on Valoniopsis.
24, Grammatophora caulerpica sp. nov.
Frustules occurring in zig-zag chains, rectangular with round edges,
possessing two intercalary bands. Septa more or less wavy, inner end
more or less knobbed. Shell mantel and intercalary band separated by a
distinct line. Shell broad, linear in the middle, transapical portion slightly
bulged, ends broad and round. ‘Transapical punctate striations in quin-
cunx. Pseudoraphe short and close. Polar area short and hyaline (text-
i, 2)
Long. frustule, 17-—20u.
Lat. frustule, 16-18 .w.
Transapical striations, 24-28 in 10w.
Due to the presence of a wavy septa, and on account of the edges of
the frustules being round, the Indian diatom can be compared well with
Grammatophora marina (Lyngb.) Kitz. (Hustedt, op. cit., p. 43, fig. 569,
1931-32). It further resembles the same in having its punctae quin-
cuncially arranged. It, however, differs from the same in having broader
frustules and in possessing greater number of transapical striations, which
are 24-28 in 10u in the present diatom while G. marina possesses 15-22
transapical striations in 10u. On account of possessing the same number
of transapical striae it may be compared to G. marina var. adriatica
Grun., but it differs from the same in greater dimensions of its frustules.
Further the present form may also be compared to G. marina var. tropica
(Kiuitz.) Grun, in its general features, but the present form differs from this
variety in having larger number of transapical striations, it further differs
from the same in having smaller size of its frustules. With both of the
above varietal type it differs also in possessing more wavy septa, which
in the varieties are rather straight.
Habitat : Okha Port, Bombay. Epiphytic on Cazlerpa.
Accedit ad G. marinam Kiitz. septis sinuosis, marginibus frustulorum
rotundatis, punctis quincuncialiter dispositis ; ab ea tamen differt frustulis
latioribus, striis transapicalibus pluribus (24-28 in praesenti nova specie,
15-22 in altera specie in 10). Numero striatum accedit ad G. marinam
var. adriaticam Grun., a qua differt magnitudine ampliore frustulorum ;
accedit etiam ad G. marinam var. tropicam Grun. multis in notis, sed
differt numero majore striarum transapicalium et magnitudine minore
frustulorum ; ab utraque varietate differt septis sinuosis, quae in varieta-
tibus sunt fere recta.
3
SOCIETY, Vol. 53 |
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Text-figs. 18-25.—Fig. 18, Aiddulphia rhombus (Ehrenb.) Smith, girdle-view,
showing areoles. Fig. 19, Biddulphia aurita (Lyngb.) Breb. et Godey, girdle-
view. Fig. 20, Biddulphia levis Ehrenb. valve-view. Fig. 21, Rhabdonema inditum
sp. noy., frustule in girdle-view. Fig. 22, Rhabdonema indicum sp. nov., a part of
the frustule, showing intercalary bands. Fig. 23, Grammatophora angulosa Ehrenb.
girdle-view. Fig. 24a, b, Grammatophora hamulifera Kitz. frustules in girdle- |
and valve-view. Fig. 25, Grammatophora caulerpica sp, nov., girdle-view, showing ia
pepts and striations. (18, 19, 23, 24 a, b, 25, x 2800; 20, x 1500; 21, x 180; 22, x |
00). |
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 549
25, Grammatophora maxima Grun. ;Hustedt, op. cit., p. 44, figs) 572;
1931-32.
Frustules rectangular with straight prominent septa, shell linear-
lanceolate, ends rounded, bulged in the middle, polar area short, hyaline ,
pseudoraphe narrow. ‘Transapical punctae striations in quincunx (text-
fig. 26).
Long. frustule, 52..
Lat. frustule, 13x.
Transapical striations, 24 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Porbandar. Epiphytic on the disc of Ulva.
26. Grammatophora oceanica (Ehrenb.) Grun., var, macilenta (Smith)
Grun. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 47, fig. 573, 1931-32.
Frustules rectangular, thin-walled, septa long, straight, shell linear-
lanceolate with flat round ends. Pseudoraphe narrow, polar area very
small, hyaline. Transapical striations in guincunx, finely punctate
(text-fig. 27 a, b).
Long. frustule, 65.
Lat. frustule, 13,.
Transapical striations, 20 in 10x.
The Indian diatom resembles the type closely.
Habitat : Bombay. Epiphytic on the thallus of Padzna.
27, Licmophora flabellata (Carm.) Ag. Husted, op. cit., p. 58, fig. 581,
1931-32. |
Frustules in branched colony, attached to the host by a gelatinous
stalk, keel-shaped with pointed edges in girdle-view, septa very short,
intercalary band flat, straight. Valve-view narrow club-shaped, apical
pole round. Valve tapering gradually towards the basal pole. Apical
pole flat and arched. ‘Transapical striations of extremely fine punctae,
hardly visible near the base (text-fig. 28 a, b, c).
Long. frustule, 152-165.
Lat. frustule, 26-30u.
Transapical striations, 26-30 in 10u.
The form resembles the type closely.
Habitat : Dwarka. Epiphytic on Laurencia.
28, Licmophora bharadwajai Sp. nov.
Frustules keel-shaped in girdle-view, broad with round edges. Septa
distinct, moderately deep, intercalary band flat, slightly curved. Valve
broadest at the apical pole narrowing gradually towards the basal pole.
with concave margin. ‘Transapical striations strongly developed. Inter-
calary space between the transapical striations, punctate fine in long row.
Pseudoraphe distinct, narrow (text-figs. 29, 30 a, b).
Long. frustule, 39-78 w.
Lat. frustule at the apex, 23-46.
Lat. frustule at the middle, 26-39.
Lat. frustule at the base, 4-8 wu.
Transapical striations, 6-8 in 10w.
The Indian diatom resembles Licmophora gracilis (Ehrenb.) Grun.,
(Hustedt, op. cit., p. 60, fig. 582, 1931-32) due to the possession of keel-
550 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
shaped frustuies in girdle-view with flat, slightly curved intercalary band.
It further resembles the same in possessing a broad round apical pole,
while the margin in both the diatoms is concave near the basal pole.
Moreover, they possess fine punctae between the transapical striations.
Licmophora bhavadwajai sp. nov. differs, however, from the same in being
shorter in length, and wider in breadth, and in having lesser number of
transapical striations, which in the Indian diatom are 6-8 in 10u, whereas
they are 20-22 in 10u in the type. It further differs from Licmophora
gracilis (Ehrenb.) Grun. in having distinct and moderately deep septa,
instead of short and indistinct as in the type. The present form may
also bé compared with LZ. oedipus (Kitz.) Grun., (Hustedt, op. cit., p. 62,
fig. 585, 1931-32) due to the possession of similar frustules with the
intercalary band flat or slightly curved, and in having fine punctae bet-
ween the transapical striations. But the Indian form of Lzcmophora
differs from the same in possessing distinct and moderately deep septa.
It further differs from the same in possessing a lesser number of trans-
apical striations, which in the type are 20-30 in 10“, while in the present
diatom they are 6-8 in 10x.
Habitat : Dwarka, Veraval. Epiphytic on Cladophora and Cevamtum.
Accedit nova haec species ad Z. gracilem Grun. frustulis carinatis
aspectu zonali, fascia intercalari tenuiter curvata; polo apicali rotundato,
latoque, marginibus concavis prope polum basalem; differt vero longi-
tudine breviore, latitudine latiore, striis transapicalibus paucioribus (6-8
in nova specie, 20-22 in 10 in altera specie); porro differt septis dis-
tinctis et moderate altis. Nova species accedit etiam ad L. oedipum
Grun. frustulis similibus, fascia intercalari plana vel paululum curvata,
punctis minutis inter strias transapicales; ab ea tamen differt numero
minore striarum transapicalium, quae in specie typica sunt 20-39 in 10x,
29, Licmophora abbreviata Ag. Hustedt, op. cit, p. 66, fig. 590,
1931-32.
Frustules in girdle-view strongly keel-shaped, upper edges round.
septa long, deep. Intercalary band strongly curved (sinuous). Valve-
view narrow, club-shaped, with broad apical pole having round edges,
basal pole pointed round. Margin near the basal pole slightly concave.
Transapical striations distinct throughout. Pseudoraphe narrow but
distinct (text-fig. 31).
Long. frustule, lll.
Lat. frustule at the apical pole, 18..
Lat. frustule at the basal pole, 6.
Transapical striations, 15-18 in 10x.
The present diatom resembles the type closely, except that it possesses
a large number of transapical striations.
Habitat: Porbandar. Epiphytic on Polysthhonia.
30, Licmophora paradoxa (Lyngb.) Ag. var, media var. nov.
Frustule wedge-shaped in girdle-view, with broad round edged apical
portion. Septa long, deeply piercing. JIntercalary band curved. Valve
club-shaped. Margin near the basal pole concave. Transapical striations
distinct. Pseudoraphe narrow, but distinct (text-figs. 32, 33).
Long. frustule, 55-59.
Lat. frustule, 8-10y.
Transapical striations, 24-28 in 10u.
EITTOR
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Text-figs. 26-31—Fig. 26, Grammatophora maxima Grun. girdle-view.
Figs. 27 a, b, Grammatophora oceanica (Ehrenf.) Grun. frustules in girdle- and
valve-view. Figs. 28 a, b, c, Licmophora flabellata (Carm.) Ag. girdle-and valve-
view. Figs. 29, 30 a, b, Licmophora bharadwajai sp.nov. frustules in girdle- and
valve-view, showing septa and transapical striations. Fig. 31, Licmophora abbre-
vata Ag. girdle-view. (26, 27 a, b, 30 a,b, x2800; 28a, b,c, x 700; 29, x 800;
31, x 1400),
552 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol, 53
_. The present diatom agrees with Licmophora paradoxa (Lyngb.) Ag.,
(Hustedt, op. cit., p. 76, fig. 605, 1931-32), in having distinct, deep septa,
and in possessing the same general features. It, however, differs from
the same in being smaller in size and in the possession of lesser number
of transapical striations.
Habitat ; Dwarka, Bombay. Epiphytic on Padzna.
Accedit ad speciem typicam septis distinctis, altis, et notis aliis
‘plurimis; ab ea differt magnitudine minore, striis transapicalibus pau-
cioribus.
31, Licmophora grandis (Kitittz.) Grun. var. somnathii var. nov.
Frustule in girdle-view long keel-shaped with round edges, septa deep
piercing. Intercalary band feeble, sinuous. Valve-view narrow club-
shaped, broad at the apical pole, narrowing towards the basal pole. Basal
pole round. Transapical striations distinct throughout. Pseudoraphe
prominent (text-fig. 34 a, b, c, d).
Long. frustule, 90-105.
Lat. frustule, 5. 3
Transapical striations, 20-28 in 10..
The Indian diatom resembles ZL. grandis (Kttz.) Grun,, (Hustedt, op.
cit., p. 76, fig. 608, 1931-32) due to its general characters, But it differs
from the same in possessing sinuous to almost straight intercalary band.
It further differs from the type in having narrower frustules with greater
number of transapical striations.
Habitat : Veraval, Porbandar. Epiphytic on Ceramzumi..
Accedit ad speciem typicam multis in notis ; ab ea recedit fascia inter-
calari sinuata vel fere recta, frustulis angustioribus, striis transapicalibus
pluribus.
32, Licmophora communis (Heib.) Grun. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 79,
fig. 610, 1931-32.
Frustule wedge-shaped in girdle-view with round edges. Septa deeply
piercing. Intercalary band sinuous. Valve-view club-shaped with broad
round apical pole. Margin straight, but concave near the basal pole.
Transapical striations faint in the apical part, while prominent in the basal
region. Pseudoraphe distinct (text-fig. 35 a, b).
Long. frustule, 36-39.
Lat. frustule, 6-7.
Transapical striations, 12 in LO.
The form resembles the type closely.
Habitat : Dwarka. Epiphytic on the basal disc of Dictyota.
33, Climacosphenia littoralis sp, nov.
Frustule in girdle-view wedge-shaped with perfectly straight margins,
Intercalary bands straight, running throughout the length of the frustule
with numerous septa. Frustule in valve-view club-shaped with circular
ends, broad at the apical pole narrowing towards the basal pole. Septa
irregularly round to oval, larger in the upper portion, while smaller in the
lower region becoming ovalin shape. ‘Transpical striations fine, straight.
Striations in the middle portion of the shell finely punctate. Punctae
minute irregularly disposed (text-figs, 36 a, b, c), ;
LT ”
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Text-figs. 32-34 d.—Fig. 32, 33, Licnophora paradoxa (Lyngb.) Ag. var.
media, var. nov. girdle- and valve-view, Figs. 34 a, b, Licmophora grandis (Ktitz.)
Grun., var. sommnathii var. nov. girdle- and valve-view showing septa and trans-
apical striations. Figs. 34 c, d, same, showing apical and basal parts of the valve-
view. (32; 33, 34:c, dl. x 2800;.34 a, b, x. 1400).
Long. frustule, 380-460,.
Lat. frustule at the apex, 40-58.
Lat. frustule at the middle, 20-35y.
Lat. frustule at the base, 10-13,.
Striations in the upper portion, 25 in 10u.
Striations in the middle portion, 10-12 in 10u,
Striations in the lower portion, 14-20 in 10u,
554 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The Indian diatom resembles the type Climacosphenia moniligera
Ehrenb. (Hustedt, op. cit., p. 89, figs. 625, 626, 1931-32) in possessing
keel-shaped frustules in the girdle-view, having straight margins, and
club-shaped in the valve-view. It further agrees with the same in having
numerous septa and well developed transapical striations which are
punctate in the middle part of the frustules. The Indian diatom, however,
differs from the same in having more or less round to oval septa, while
in the type they are roundish to elliptical. Further the present form has
irregularly disposed punctae in the middle region, and the number of
transapical striations also vary from those of the type for the corres-
ponding regions. Moreover, the frustules of the Indian diatom are
broader.
Habitat : Dwarka, Epiphytic on Chamaedoris.
Species haec indica accedit ad monzligeram Ehrenb. frustulis carinatis,
marginibus rectis aspectu zonali, clavatis vero aspectu valvali, septis
plurimis, striis transapicalibus bene evolutis punctatis in media parte
frustulorum; ab ea tamen recedit septis plus minusve rotundatis vel
ovalibus, punctis irregulariter dispositis in regione media, striis trans-
apicalibus numero diversis ; porro frustulis latioribus.
34, Plagiogramma pulchellum Grey, var, intermedia var, nov.
Frustules rectangular in girdle-view, margins straight with round
edges. Valve linear-elliptic with blunt round edges. Pseudoraphe deep,
piercing. One pair in the middle anda single on each end of the valve.
Transapical striations punctate, bigger in the middle than those on the
ends, punctae in long radial rows (text-fig. 37).
Long. frustule, 19-21b vu.
Lat. frustule, 4-5.
Striations, 5-8 in 10u.
Punctae, 7-9 in 10u.
The present form resembles Plagiogramma pulchellum Grev. var.
pigmea (Grev.) Pergallo, (Hustedt, op. cit. p. 108, fig. 634, 1931-32)
closely in general structure, but it differs from the same in being larger
in size and in possessing lesser number of transapica! striations.
Habitat: Bombay. In sediment. -
Accedit ad speciem typicam structura generali, recedit vero magni-
tudine ampliore et numero striarum transapicalium minore.
35, Podocystis ovalis sp. nov.
The frustules are attached with their basal pole to the thallus of
Polysibhonia by means of a gelatinous cushion. The shell is oval: in
valvar-plain. Valve membrane traversed by apical and_transapical
striations, which form a net-like system. The striations are areoled, which
are round, slightly elongated, that iS, oblong in shape (text-fig. 38).
Long. frustule, 52-58.
Lat. frustule, 42-481.
Transapical striations, 6 in 10u.
Areoles, 8 in 10.
The present diatom resembles Podocystzs sbathulata (Shadb). Heurck.
(Hustedt, op. cit., p. 133, fig. 653, 1931-32) on account of a more or less
similar shape, and in the possession of apical and transapical striations
which are areoled. It, however, differs from the same in being oval or
egg-shaped instead of spathulate, Further in comparison to the above type
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 555
the Indian diatom has smaller frustules. Moreover, the transapical
striations are More prominent and the areolation is in one row, further the
apical axis of the Indian form is broader than that of P. spathulata.
Habitat: Okha Port, Dwarka. Epiphytic on. Polystphonia.
Proxima P. spathulatae Heurck. forma, et aliis notis; ab ea differt
forma ovali nec spathulata, frustulis minoribus, striis transapicalibus pro-
minentioribus, areolatione uniseriata, axi apicali latiore.
36. Frigilaria cylindrus Grun. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 152, fig. 665, 1931-32.
Frustules occurring in thick bands, rectangular in girdle-view. Valve
linear with broad round ends. Transapical striations prominent. Pseudo-
raphe very narrow (text-fig. 39).
Long. frustule, 10-131.
Lat. frustule, 3-5.
Transapical striations, 20 in 10...
The form resembles the type closely.
Habitat: Okha Port, Bombay. In sediment.
37, Synedra kashyapiens Sp. nov.
Frustules existing individually. Valve narrow, linear to lanceolate
with slightly curved round ends. ‘Transapical striations prominent.
Pseudoraphe distinct, narrow and linear, centrai hyaline area absent (text-
fig. 40).
Long. frustule, 45-638.
Lat. frustule, 4-5y.
Transapical striations, 13-14 in 10.
The present diatom resembles Synedra duvestiens Smith (Hustedt, op,
cit., p. 209, fig. 699, 1931-32) in its general construction, but it differs from
the same in having larger frustules possessing greater number of trans-
apical striations. Further the pseudoraphe is not as narrow, but broader
than that in the Smith’s species.
Habitat: Porbandar, Veraval. In the sediment.
Ad 5S. investientem Smith accedit structura generali, ab ea differt
frustulis largioribus, numero majore striarum transapicalium, pseudoraphe
latiore.
38, Synedra famelica Kiitz. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 210, fig. 701, 1931-32,
Frustules individually existing. Valve broad-lanceolate, narrow in
the lower portion with round apices. ‘Transapical striations fine. Pseudo-
taphe very narrow and hardly recognisable. Central hyaline area
absent (text-fig. 41).
Long. frustule, 36-39«.
Lat. frustuJe, 3-4.
Transapical striations, 15-18 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type, but possesses lesser number of
transapical striations.
Habitat: Porbandar, Veraval. In sediment.
39. Synedra hyperborea Grun. var. rostellata Grun. Hustedt, op. cit.,
p. 217, figs. 709 k, 1, 1931-32.
Frustules occurring individually, valve linear-lanceolate, abruptly
narrowing towards the apices, round on the poles, Transapical striations
556 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
extremely fine, pseudoraphe narrow and linear, central hyaline area absent
(text-fig. 42),
Long. frustule, 50-551.
Lat. frustule, 4.
Transapical striations, 24 in 10w.
The present form closely resembles the varietal type.
Habitat: Dwarka. Epiphytic on Bryopszs and Laurencia.
40, Synedra tabulata (Ag.) Kiitz. var. fasiculata (Kitz.) Grun.
Hustedt, op. cit., p. 218, figs. 710 i-1, 1931-32.
Frustules freely occurring. Valve long-lanceolate, without curved end,
poles broad, round, transapical striations short and fine. -Pseudoraphe
broad and distinct (text-fig. 43),
Long. frustule, 39-52.u.
Lat. frustule, 6.
Transapical striations, 11-12 in 10u.
The form resembles the varietal type closely.
Habitat: Bombay. Enpiphytic on the thallus of Pune
41, Synedra closterioides Grun, Hustedt, op. cit., p. 222, fig. 712 ;
1931—32.
Frustules curved like a bow, bulged in the middle narrowing towards
the bent apices. Transapical striations very fine, pseudoraphe narrow and
uniform throughout (text-fig. 44).
Long. frustule, 32-48.
Lat. frustule, 3-41.
Transapical striations, 20 in 10.u.
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Bombay. Epiphytic on Cladophora.
42, Cocconeis clandestina Schmidt. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 331, fig. 784,
TOSIESZ.
Frustules attached to Déctyota thallus with their raphe-shell. Ellipti-
cal in valvar plain, intercalary band and septa absent. Rapheless shell or
the epitheca with flat transapical striations. Intercalary space between
the striations prominently punctate, punctae big and round, towards the
poles in three rows, in the middle there are usually two rows only. The
punctae system is in straight line; pseudoraphe linear hyaline. Raphe-
shell or the hypotheca with fine radial transapical punctate row, punctae
arranged in long faint wavy rows. Raphe straight, axial area narrow,
central area round bulged. Valvar margin hyaline (text-fig. 45),
Long. frustule, 13-28..
Lat. frustule, 13-20u.
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 6-10 in 10..
Punctae on the epitheca, 7-9 in 10.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 18 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka. Epiphytic on Dictyota.
43. Cocconeis costata Greg. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 332, fig. 785, 1931-32.
Frustules epiphytic on Lryofszs, hypotheca and epitheca similar, ellip-
tic in outline, Epitheca with prominent radial transapical ribs or striations
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Text-figs. 35-43, Figs. 35 a, b, Licmophora communis (Heib.) Grun, girdle- and
valve-view. Fig. 38 a, b, Climacosphenia littoralis sp. nov. frustules in girdle- and
valve-view, | showing intercalary band and septa. Fig. 36 c, a part of the same,
Showing striations and punctae. Fig. 37, Plagiogramma pulchelluna var. inter-
media var. noy. valve-view. Fig. 38, Podocystis ovalica sp. nov. frustule in
valve-view, shoWing areoled transapical striations. Fig. 39, frustule, showing stri-
ations. Fig. 40, Synedra kashyapensis sp. nov. frustule, showing striations.
ig. 41, Syzedra famelica Kiitz. frustule, showing striations. Fig. 42, Synedra
hy perborea Grun. var. vostellata Grun. frustule with striations. Fig. 43, Synedra
tabulata (Ag.) Kitz. var. fasiculata (Kitz,) Grun. frustule. with striations. (35 a
b, X 1530; 36 a, b, X 700; 36 c, 37, 39, 40, 41, 42, 43, X 2800; 38, X 1400).
558 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Interspaces between the striations distinctly areoled, areoles arranged in
quincunx, pseudoraphe narrow, hyaline and linear. Hypotheca traversed
by transapical striations, raphe straight, axial area very narrow, hyaline,
margin with transverse bands (text-fig. 46).
Long. frustule, 18..
Lat. frustule, 13u.
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 12 in 10u.
Punctae on the epitheca, 15 in 10u.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 12 in 10x.
Punctae on the hypotheca, 16 in 10x.
The form possesses larger number of striations than the type, otherwise
closely agrees with it.
Habitat : Porbandar, Veraval. Epiphytic on Bryopsis.
44, Cocconeis californica Grun. Hustedt, op. cit, p. 343, fig. 796,
US lea sy45.*
Frustules with hypotheca and epitheca similar in outline, but differing
in punctations. Epitheca traversed by transapical punctae, striations
radially arranged, punctae in slightly wavy lines. Pseudoraphe narrow,
linear but slightly bulged in the middle. Hypotheca radially punctate.
Punctae fine. Raphe straight, axial area narrow hyaline, central knot
slightly bulged. Margin in the valves hyaline (text-fig. 47).
Long. frustule, 20-21..
Lat. frustule, 12-17,..
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 10 in 10wu.
Punctae on the epitheca, 9-12 in 10z.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 12 in 1lOw.
Punctae on the hypotheca, 11 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Veraval. Epiphytic on Bryopszs.
45, Cocconeis placentula Ehrenb, var, euglypta (Ehrenb.) Hust. Hustedt,
op. cit., p. 349, fig. 802 c, 1931-32.
Frustules with elliptical hypotheca and epitheca. Epitheca with —
radial punctate striations. Punctae in thick long row. Pseudoraphe ©
narrow linear. Hypotheca with fine punctate transapical striae. Raphe
thin linear, axial area narrow, central knot distinct (text-fig. 48).
Long. frustule, 18-—21u.
Lat. frustule, 8-171.
Transapicai striations on the epitheca, 6 in 10xu.
Punctae on the epitheca, 12-15 in 10u.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 6 in 10x.
Punctae on the hypotheca, 14 in 10x.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat : Dwarka. Epiphytic on Chamaedorts.
46, Cocconeis dirupta Greg, var. flexella (Jan. and Rabh.) Grun. Hust-
edt, op. cit., p. 354, figs. 809, d-i, 1931-32.
Frustules attached to Gracilaria thallus, both hypotheca and epitheca
are elliptically broad. Jipitheca with wavy, remote, radial transapical
striae in an intercrossing system. Pseudoraphe lanceolate and broad
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST 509
pointed at the ends. Hypotheca with radial punctate transapical striations,
raphe sigmoid, axial area narrow (text-fig. 49).
Long. frustule, 26-441.
Lat. frustule, 15-17,.
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 12-18 in 10u.
Intersecting lines on the epitheca, 9-14 in 10.u.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 15-20 in 10w.
Punctae on the hypotheca, 16-21 in 10u.
The form closely agrees with the type in its structure.
Habitat: Dwarka, Veraval. Epiphytic on Gracilaria.
47, Cocconeis heteroides Hantz. Hustedt, op. cit. p. 356, fig. 811,
1931-32.
Valves elliptic. Epitheca with fine radial transapical striations, narrow
bow-shaped hyaline furrow between the striations. Pseudoraphe broad,
linear, oblique at the ends. Hypotheca with tansapical striations, thicker
towards the ends. Axial area hyaline. Raphe strongly sigmoid (text-fig.
50 a, b).
Long. frustule, 17-23 wu.
Lat. frustule, 14-16u.
Transapical striations on the auittnese, 28 in 10y.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 25-27 in 10x,
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Porbandar. Epiphytic on Valon7opsis.
48, Cocconeis quarnerensis Grun. var. borgesensis var, nov.
Frustules elliptic lanceolate, epitheca with short radial striations touch-
ing the margin (marginal), central ones broad, lanceolate, with faint signs
of striations. -Pseudoraphe narrow, lanceolate. Hypotheca with strong
radial striations. Raphe straight, axial area very narrow. Central area
bulged and barrel-shaped (text-fig. 51).
Long. frustule, 23-42..
Lat. frustule, 10-16.
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 10 in 10w.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 10-12..
The present diatom resembles Cocconeis guarnerensis Grun, (Hustedt,
op. cit., p. 360, fig. 814, 1931-32) in having marginal transapical stria-
tions, and in its pseudoraphe being lanceolate, it further resembles the
same on account of its central area being bulged. It, however, differs
from the same in the possession of a barrel-shaped central area instead of
the circular as inthe type. Further, the transapical striations are greater
in number. |
Habitat: Okha Port. Epiphytic on Ceramdume.
Accedit ad speciem typicam striis marginalibus transapicalibus, pseudo-
taphe lanceolata, area centrali tumescente. Differt vero ab ea centro
doliiformi, striis transapicalibus pluribus.
49, Cocconeis pelta Schmidt. Hustedt. op. cit., p. 36/1, fig. 815, 1931-32.
Shell elliptical, epitimeca with radial transapical striations, and broad
irregularly punctate middle portion, hypotheca with transapical striations.
Raphe straight, axial area narrow. Central area more or less round (text
fig. 52).
560 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Long. frustule, 3ly.
Lat. frustule, 13.
Transapical striations on the epitheca, 18 in 10u.
Transapical striations on the hypotheca, 20 in lOw.
The form closely resembling the type differs in having bigger frustules.
Habitat: Porbandar, Veraval. Epiphytic on Bryopszs.
50. Achnanthes taeniata Grun. MHustedt, op. cit. p. 382, fig. 828, 1931-
SY
Frustules in bands. Vaive elliptic-lanceolate with broad round ends.
Transapical striations fine. Pseudoraphe distinct, linear, raphe straight
and thin, axial area very narrow, central area absent (text-figs. 53 a, b).
Long. frustule, 26-52.
Lat. frustule, 7-9y.
Striations, 20-25 in 10.
The form resembles the type closely.
Habitat: Porbandar. In sediment.
51. Achnanthes hauckiana Grun. MHustedt, op. cit., p. 388, fig. 834,
1931-32.
Frustules occurring freely. Valve slightly elliptic to lanceolate with
narrow ends, which are wedge-shaped. Pseudoraphe distinct, linear-
lanceolate, raphe pinnate, axial area narrow, central nodule slightly broad,
central area round. ‘Transapical striation strong, slightly radial to almost
straight (text-fig. 54).
Long. frustule, 46,..
Lat. frustule, 7.
Striations, 12 in 10u.
The diatom seems to be enjoying a wide distribution. It is stated to
be occurring in brackish-water as well as in hot springs and in the - Arctic
Coast of White Sea, op. cit., Hustedt, p. 289, 1931-32.
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Dwarka. In sediment.
52. Achnanthes coarctata (Breb. ) Grun. var. elliptica Krasske. Hustedt,
op. cit., p, 420, figs. 872 d-e, 1931-32.
Valves linear elliptical with flat round ends, pseudoraphe narrow close
to the shell margin. Striations extending in the middle portion of the
valve, hypotheca with straight prominent raphe, striations slightly radial
(text-fig. 55),
Long. frustule, 48-781.
Lat. frustule, 8-12 u.
Striations, 9 in 10u.
The form resembles Achnanthes coarctata (Breb.) Grun. var. elliptica
Krasske, on account of possessing elliptic valve, in having radial striae,
marginal pseudoraphe, and straight raphe. But it differs from the same
in valves being longer and in having slightly wider striations.
Habitat: Porbandar. In sediment.
53, Achnanthes arctica Cleve. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 423, fig. 876, 1931-32.
Valves linear-elliptic with broad round ends and slightly concave sides.
Pseudoraphe slightly wavy and narrow, central area absent. Striations
vertical, arranged in more or less long wavy rows (text-fig. 56).
LITTORAL. MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST COAST
561
46
47
| Db,
LOE gaititt
44
53b
Text-figs. 44-54Fig. 44, Synedra closterioides Grun., frustule, showing striations.
Fig. 45, Cocconeis clandestina Schmidt., frustule with punctae. Fig. 46, Cocconeis.
costata Greg. Fig. 47, Cocconeis californica Grun. Fig. 48, Cocconeis placentula
Hhrenb. var euglypla Cleve. Fig. 49, Cocconeis dirupla Greg. var. flexella (Jan.
and Rabh.) Grun. Fig 50a, b, Cocconeis hetevoides Haniz. Fig. 51, Cocconeis
guarnerensis Grun., var. bérgesensis var
(All X 2800),
nov. frustule, showing radial striations.
Fig. 52, Cocconeis pelta Schmidt. Figs. 53, a,b, Achnanthes taeniata Grun., frus-
tules with striations. Fig. 54, Achnanthes hauckiana Grun., frustule, showing stria-
tions.
562 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Long. frustule, 40-46u.
Lat. frustule, 7-llyv.
Striations, I5 in 10.
The form agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Bombay. In sediment.
54, Achnanthes brevipes Ag., var. intermedia (Kitz.) Cleve. Hustedt
op. cit., p. 425, figs. 877 d, e, 1931-32.
Valves linear-lanceolate with round ends. Narrow pseudoraphe.,
Striations straight and prominent (text-fig. 57).
Long. frustule, 38-45.
Lat. frustule, 10-l5y.
Striations, 9-10 in 10.
The Indian diatom closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Okha Port. In sediment.
55, Rhoicosphenia marina (Smith) Schmidt. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 432,
fig, 880, 193J-32.
Shell club-shaped with broad round apex, basal pole narrow, trans-
apical striations prominent, straight. Raphe straight extending almost
to the middle of the frustule. Pseudosepta present (text-fig. 58).
Long. frustule, 13-15..
Lat. frustule, 3-5.
Striations, 20 in 10u
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat : Okha Port, Dwarka. In sediment.
56. Diploneis incurvata (Greg.) Cleve, var. arabica var. nov.
Valves linear-elliptic, constricted in the middle, with round ends,
central nodule moderately small, almost quadratic in outline. Horns dis-
tinct, parallel, furrows broad. Transapical striations straight and well-
Soon on the poles radial, outer wall striated. Alveoli absent (text-
fig, 09)
Rene frustule, 42-52.
Lat. frustule in the middle, 10-13u.
Lat. frustule in the upper part, 17-20u.
Striations, 10-12 in 10x.
Though the Indian diatom resembles Diploneis incurvala (Greg.)
Cleve., (Hustedt, op. cit., p. 593, figs. b-d, 1937) in general structure, but
it differs from the same in possessing well-developed striations. The
Indian variety further varies from the same in the absence of alveoli.
Ad varietatem typicam accedit multis in notis; differt vero striis bene
definitis, absentia alveolorum.
57. Diploneis confecta (A. S.) Hust. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 609, figs. 1023
Bh [oh IWEMc
Valve linear-elliptic, constricted in the middle with round ends.
Central nodule long, quadratic in outline, apex rectangular, horns parallel
and strong. Raphe furrow broad, striations long, narrow, interrupted in
the middle, radially arranged in the lower portion, furrow region poroide
(text-fig. 60).
LITTORAL MARINE DIATOMS FROM THE WEST. COAST 563
Long. frustule, 52-58.
Lat. frustule in the middle, 11-13,
Lat. frustule in the upper portion, 16-18.
Striations, 7-8 in 1).
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat : Okha Port. In sediment.
58. Diploneis crabro Ehrenb. forma suspecta (A, S,) Hust. Hustedt, op.
Cillts5 > BA, (eez, JUOZS) jo, IVEY
Valves linear-elliptic, ends wedged (acute) round, constricted in the
middle. Central nodule elongated quadrate in outline, horns strong,
parallel. Striations strong, radial. Raphe furrow broad. Outer wall
poroide (text-fig. 61).
Long. frustule, 52..
Lat. frustule in the middle, 13u.
Lat. frustule in the upper part, 18—20w.
Striations, 7 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type form.
Habitat : Dwarka. In sediment.
59. Diploneis ovalis (Hilse) Cleve, var, oblongella (Naeg.) Cleve. Hustedt,
op. cit., p. 671, figs. 1065 t-k, 1937.
Valves broad elliptic, with broad rougd ends, central nodule very big,
roundish-oblong in outline. Horns strong, parallel. Raphe furrow very
narrow. Striations more or less prominent, distinctly radial, loculi
indistinct, outer wall poroide (text-fig. 62).
Long. frustule, 40-437.
Lat. frustule, 11-13.
Striations, 15 in 19.
The Indian diatom agrees well with the type.
Habitat: Porbandar, Veraval. ‘The form occurs in sediment.
60. Diploneis peterseni Hust. Hustedt, op. cit., p. 676, figs. 1068 f-h,
1937.
Valves linear-elliptic, with broad round ends and slightly convex
sides. Central nodule elongated, raphe furrow narrow, lanceolate.
Striations fine, straight, loculi wall finely poroide (text-fig. 63).
Long. frustule, 22-26.
Lat. frustule, 6-8.
Striations, 20-24 in 10u.
The form closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Bombay. In sediment.
61. Pinnularia directa Smith. Smith, A synopsis of the British Dia-
tomaceae, Vol. 1, London, p. 56, pl. xviii, fig. 172 b, 1853.
Frustules in girdle-view rectangular with round ends. Striations fine,
straight and parallel (text-fig. 64).
Long. frustule, 39-40.
Lat. frustule, 9-13.
Striations, 20 in 10w.
The Indian diatom closely resembles the type.
Habitat: Dwarka, Bombay. In sediment.
4
564 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
e002
900008
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90900006
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Text-figs. 55-62.—Fig.55, Achnanthes coarctata (Breb.) Grun, Fig, 56, Achnan-
thes arctica Cleve. Fig. 57,
BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN TEHR] GARHWAI. 583
up to a certain level’; above this level atmospheric precipitation again
diminishes. He quotes Hill (p. 695) that the line of greatest rainfall
in the Himalayas lies at 1,270 m. (4,165 ft.) above sea level. Here the
rainfall amounts to 3.7 times as much as in the neighbouring’ plains,
but at 3,000 m. (9,040 ft.) it is only 1/5 of the former. As data
on the rainfall of the district are not available, we can but guess the
rainfall from the records available from the adjacent hills in the
district of Dehra Dun. In Dehra Dun proper the annual rainfall
is 85”, in Rajpur (3,200 ft.) it is 119”, and at Mussoorie 94”. So
we may deduce that at a height of 9,840 ft. it must be 40”. The
northern slopes of the valleys receive much less precipitation; and
summer rains are scanty north of the snowy peaks.
Relative humidity is greatest at about 7,000 ft.; above this height
there are great fluctuations. The absolute humidity decreases with
falling temperature in passing to higher altitudes. As we pass
northwards the precipitation is in the form of snow. In general the
spring is sunny and moist due to winter rains and melting snows;
the summer is dry. The rainy season is warm with rains and high
humidity. Autumn is sunny and dry; while the winter is cold with
rains and low humidity. The climate is so different at varying
altitudes that no general statement can be made on the climate of the
whole area.
CLIMATIC ZONES
The entire area in the Bhillangna Valley can be divided into three
climatic zones very similar to Hooker’s three climatic zones of
Western Himalayas:
1. Tropical, extending up to 5,000 ft., i.e., a little above Ghansali.
2. Temperate, from 5,000 ft. to 12,000 ft., i.e., the upper limit of
trees, a little above Masar Tal.
3. Alpine, from 12,000 ft. to 18,000 ft., i.e.. the upper limit of
flowering plants.
Tropical Zone:
This zone extends up to 5,000 ft., the lower limit of snowfall
during winter. Annual rainfall 80-90”. The temperature rarely
falls below freezing point during winter; in May it rises to 105° F.
or above. The monsoon starts about the middle of June, and it
continues to about the end of September. The rainy season is
characterized by general cloudiness and heavy rainfall; clouds fre-
quently roll on the ground and humidity reaches saturation point
for a considerable period. During autumn there is continuous
sunshine without rain, and consequently humidity is much reduced.
Spring is sunny without rains and is the hottest season of the year.
Temperate Zone:
Here the temperatures are lower, precipitation is less and a con-
siderable portion of it is in the form of snow. During June to
September the forests are enveloped in thick monsoon clouds and the
air is saturated with water vapour. About 70-80% of the annual
precipitation falls as rain. Autumn is sunny, with low humidity, and
584 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the temperature falls during winter below 32° I. Spring days are
cloudless with rising temperature. The ground remains moist from
the melting of the snows and the humidity is never very low. With
the advance of the dry season, humidity reaches a low point, whiist
temperatures reach their highest.
Alpine Zone:
This zone extends from above the tree line. In this region
winters are cold and the growing season for plants is very short.
The spring and autumn seasons are practically eliminated. Precipita-
tion is very small and that, too, in the form of snow. The monsoon
begins a little earlier than over the outer mountains, but the total’
rainfall is much lower. During summer day temperatures are
tolerable, the nights are decidedly cold. Between the end of summer
rains and the beginning of winter, the season is very pleasant; it is
the best season for plant collection. Winters are characterized by
heavy snowfalls; this snow only disappears with the starting of the
monsoon.
THE VEGETATION OF THE AREA
The flora of the district varies between sub-tropical species in
the outer ranges of the hills and rich alpine forests in the northern
hills. The flora of the valley can be divided for the sake of con-
venience into three zones on the basis of the climatic zones :
. Tropical and Sub- tropical Zones, covering the lower slopes.
2. Temperate Zone, covering middle elevations.
3. Alpine Zone, covering the greater heights bounded on the north
by snow line.
Tropical. anid) 3S) ub at ospniciallieeZ one:
These forests cover the large tracts of the slopes of lower hills in the
valley, between 2,000 ft. and 5,000 ft. above sea level. The follow-
ing trees are given roughly in order of their abundance:
Bauhinia variegata Linn.
Bauhinia retusa Roxb.
Bauhinia vahlii W. et A.
Grewia oppositifolia Buch.-Han.
Grewia tiliaefolia Vahl
Mallotus philippensis Muell.-Arg.
Terminalia chebula Retz. _
Terminalia belerica Roxb.
Eugenia jambolana Lamk.
‘The forests are dense and moderately shady. During February-
April, they are leafless, and the ground is covered with thick coat-
ing of dried leaves. Undershrubs are scanty.
Along the river in the valley the following plants are common:
Nvyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn.
Woodfordia fructicosa (Linn.) Kurz
Glochidion velutinum Wight
Bridelia montana Royle
BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN-TEHR] GARHWAL O85
Rhus parviflora Roxb.
Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb,
Murraya koenigii Spr.
Cocculus laurifolins DC.
Phoenix sp.
Several Leguminosae.
Along the edges of terraced fields and over abandoned fields the
‘ollowing plants were seen:
Berberis lycium Royle
Rosa moschata Mill.
Rubus ellipticus Sm.
Carissa spinarum Linn.
Prinsepia utilis Royle
Adhatoda vasica Nees
At Tehri proper it is almost dry with very little vegetation. The
vegetation is purely xerophytic, The following trees are generally
cultivated :
Mangifera indica Linn.
Ficus religiosa Linn.
Ficus bengalensis Linn.
Aegle maymelos Correa
Emblica officinalis Gaertn.
Caigus sp.
On the dry rocky cliffs, shrubs of Euphorbia royleana Boiss.,
Carissa spinarum Linn., Zanthoxylum alatum Roxb., Zizvphus
oxyphylla Edgew., Agave americana Linn. and Lantana camara Linn.
are common.
The principal component of the vegetation of the valleys in
the lower hills is Pinus voxburghiit Sarg. {Pinus longifolia) and is
usually found alone restricted to exposed dry places. It appears to
possess the power of driving away all the vegetation from the tract
which it occupies. The floor of the forests is usually grassy with
thick dry needles in summer. Undershrubs are xerophvtic and few,
Some of them are:
Rubus ellipticus Sm.
Berberis lycium Royle
Indigofera gerarvdiana Wall.
Aechmanthera tomentosa Nees
Inula -sp.
Eupatorium sp. -
Temperate Zone:
In this zone towards the upper limit in cold aspect Pinus roxburghii
Sarg. is mixed with Quercus incana Roxb. Higher up it is associated
with :
Rhododendron arboreum Smith
Pieris ovalifoiia D. Don
Pyrus pashia Buch.-Ham.
Viburnum cotinifolium Don
586 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The principal shrubs are:
Berberis aristata DC.
Desmodium tiliaefolium G. Don
Rhamnus procumbens Edgew.
Deutsia corymbosa Br.
Daphne cannabina Wall.
Myrsine africana Linn.
Rosa moschata Mill.
Jasminum humile Linn.
Herbaceous vegetation is luxuriant during and after the monsoon.
The commoner plants are: :
Thalictrum javanicum Bl.
Hedychium sp.
Oenothera rosea Sol.,
With some ground orchids, ferns; Compositae and Umbelliferae are
also found.
Above 8,000 ft. Quercus incana gives place to Quercus
floribunda Wall. (syn. Quercus dilatala. Lindl.) and Quercus semi-
carpifolia Smith, and up to 10,000 ft. the following trees are commonly
seen: g
Skimmia laureola Hook. f.
Aesculus indica Colebr.
Cotoneaster bacillaris Wall. gh?
Taxus baccata Linn.
Pieris ovalifolia D. Don
Arundinaria spathiflora Trin,
Viburnum nervosum Don
Viburnum stellulatum Wall.
Euonymus lacerus Ham,
The undergrowth is composed of
Hedera nepalensis Koch.
Rhamnus virgatus Roxb.
Taraxacum officinale Wigg.
Polygonatum verticillatum Allioni
Cypripedium cordigerum Don
In the lake at Masar Tal and Sahsru Tal no plants were seen. As
the higher elevations are approached, trees of silver fir and spruce
become more and more abundant, and above all birch Betula utilis are
present up to 12,000 ft. After this the vegetation becomes typical of
the alpine type.
On the sides of the lake at Masar Tal in rich green grass the
following plants were collected:
Gentiana argentea Royle
Anemone obtusiloba D. Don
Ranunculus hirtellus Royle
Taraxacum officinale Wigg
Anemone sp.
Poa sp.
“I
BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN TEURI GARHWAL 58
Alpine Zone
This zone covers altitudes between 12,000 ft. and 18,000 ft. above
sea level, and forms the upper limit reached by flowering plants.
Above 12,000 ft. alpine formations in the form of meadows witr:
a few shrubs become common. The following plants are common:
Aconitum heterophyllum Wall.
Primula sp.
Saxifraga sp.
Corydalis sp.
Poa sp.
In addition to the special formations mentioned for the various
zones some other coniferous edaphic climax forests were also seen.
They constitute the pine forests at 3,000 ft.-6,500 ft. and Cedrus
deodara Loud. forests at 5,500 ft.-10,500 ft. They are not characteristic
forest trees, and large natural forests of deodar are present below
the general climatic climax of the region. The Pinus longifolia and
Cedrus deodara forests appear to be climatic climax and the scarcity
of soil water due to physical conditions can be regarded as_ the
determining factor.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The author is deeply indebted to Sri. M. B. Raizada, Officer-in-
Charge, Botany Branch, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun, for
allowing him to work in the Institute and helping him in the identifica-
tion of some specimens, to Rev. Fr. H. Santapau, Director, Biological
Section, St. Xavier’s College, Bombay, for critically examining’ and
suggesting improvements in the manuscript, and to Prof. K. S.
Bhargava, Head of the Botany Department, Govt. Degree College,
Naini Tal, for constant encouragement during --the course of the
work,
LIST OF THE SPECIMENS COLLECTED
The plants in the appended list have been collected from the area
shown in the map during this author’s visit to Masar Tal lake.
Plants from Sahsru Tal lake have not been given. The reference
numbers given after the specimens refer to herbarium sheets possessed
by the author. The author has tried his best to adjust the nomen-
clature of the plants to the latest findings on the subject; plants
marked with an asterisk have not been described by Collett in Flora
Simlensis,
RANUNCULACEAE
Ranunculus laetus Wal].
Small herb, with bright yellow flowers, at 3,000 ft. near Bhillangna
river at Ghansali (Gvp/a 16, 59),
R. hirtellus Royle
Herb. w ith bright yellow flowers, at 9,500 ft. near lake at Masar Tal
(Gupta 58). 7 |
588 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol, 53
Anemone obtusiloba D. Don
Herb, with flowers which are white when open, but the underside is
blue. In open grass slopes at 10,000 ft. near the lake at Masar Tal
(Gupta 65).
Anemone sp.
Small herb, with white flowers about 5” in height, at 10,000 ft. near
the sides of the lake (GzhZa 26).
Delphinium denudatum Wall.
Herb, with blue spurred flowers at 6,000 ft. (Gupza 32).
BERBERIDACEAE
Berberis aristata DC.
Prickly shrub, with yellow flowers at 6,000 ft. (Gupta 34, 46).
VIOLACEAE
Viola canescens Wall.
Small herb, with blue flowers, in shady places in the fir forest at
8,500 ft. (Gupta 51),
CARYOPHYLLACEAE
Stellaria latifolia Benth.
Small herb, with white flowers, at 3,500 ft. at Ghansali (Gupta ?)
Stellaria media Linn.
Small diffused herb, at 7,000 ft. (Gupta 67).
Arenaria serpyllifolia Linn.
Diffused herb, with small leaf and white flowers, at Ghansali near river
Bhillangna (Gupla 9).
GERANIACEAE
Oxalis corniculata Linn.
Small herb, common in shady places, with yellow flowers (Gupla
19}
AQUIFOLIACEAR
Ilex dipyrena Wall. .
Small evergreen tree, in fir forest. A small sapling has been collect-
ed (Gupta 61).
SAPINDACBRAE
Aesculus indica Colebr. |
Large tree, in fir forests at 10,000 ft. (Gupta ?)
Acer caudatum Wall.
Large tree, in fir forest at 9,500 ft, (Gupta 71).
BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN. TEHRI GARHWAL 589
LEGUMINOSAE
Lespedeza stenocarpa Maxim.
Shrub, 3-5 ft. high, silky, with red flowers, in pine forests at 4,000 ft,
(Gupta 21),
Indigofera gerardiana Wall.
Shrub, with few leaflets, flowers purple, in oak forests at 6,000 ft,
(Gupta 48),
Crotalaria albida Heyne
Herb, 1-2 ft. high, with yellow flowers at 4,000 ft. (Gupta 18),
ROSACEAR
Prunus padus Linn.
Tree, with white drooping racemes, in moru forests at 8,000 ft. (Gupta
84),
Fragaria vesca Linn,
Herb, with small white flowers, on way to Masar Tal (Guta 72),
Potentilla fulgens Wall.
Small silky herb, common at Chirbatya at 8,000 ft. Flowers not seen
(Gupta 31, 81).
Potentilla sp,
Small herb, about 5” in height, with yellow flowers, at 8,000 ft.
(Gupta 10, 15).
Rosa sericea Lindl.
Erect shrub, 4-8 {t. high with white flowers, at 9,000 ft. in kharsx
forest (Gupta 80).
R. macrophylla Linn.
Shrub, 6-10 ft., lowers not seen (Gupia 82),
R. moschata Mill.
Climbing shrub, with white flowers, commonly seen at 4,000 ite
(Gupta 43).
Pyrus pashia Buch.-Ham.
Small trees, with white pinkish flowers at 7,500 ft. (Gupta 57).
Pyranthus crenulatus Rehd.
Large shrub, with white flowers, spiny, in oak forest at 6,000 ft.
(Gupta 56).
Cotoneaster bacillaris Wall.
Large shrub, 10-18 ft, high, with white flowers, at 8,000 ft. (Gupfa 42)
590 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
C. microphylla Wall.
Densely branched prostrate shrub, with white flowers, commonly
seen at 6,000 ft. (Gupta 36),
LYTHRACEAE
Woodfordia fruticosa (Linn. ) Kurz
Shrub, with red flowers, very common in the valley at Ghansali at
3,500 ft. (Gupla 20),
ONAGRACEAE
**Oenothera rosea So],
Herb, about 11” high, with pink flowers, very commonly seen at
Geonli at 6,00) ft. (Gupta 15).
FICOIDEAE
Mollugo pentaphylla Linn.
Herb, much branched, with pink flowers at Ghansali (Guta 17).
UMBELLIFERAE
Pimpinella gp,
Erect herb, in fir forest, flowers not seen (Gupta 70).
ARALIACEAE
Hedera nepalensis Koch.
Climber, adhering to fir trees by rootlets, common in fir forest at
8,500 ft. (Gupta 83).
CAPRIFOLIACEAE
Viburnum cotinifolium Don
Shrub, with white flowers, at 7,500 ft. (Gupta 41, 60).
V. stellulatum Wall.
Large shrub, with small flowers, at 9,000 ft. in kdarsaz forest
(Gupta 87).
Lonicera quinquelocularis Hardw.
Large shrub, with yellow flowers, at 8,000 ft. (Gupta 66), —
RUBIACEAE
** Oldenlandia gracilis Hook. f,
Herb, on grassy slopes, with white flowers, at Paonli rest house
(Gupta 28),
COMPOSITAE
Gnaphalium luteo-album Linn.
Small herb, wooliy, common at Ghansali (Guta 11).
* BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN°TEHRI GARHWAL 591
Caesulia axillaris Roxb.
Small herb, common at Ghansali (Gup/a 11).
Artemisia nilagirica Pam.
Small herb, with underside of leaf white, common at Ghansali (Gupta
13).
Gerbera lanuginosa Benth.
Herb, with silky leaves, on grassy slopes (Gupta 47),
Myriactis wallichii Less,
Small herb, with yellow flowers, commonly seen on roadside (Gupta Sc
Sphaeranthus indicus Linn.
_ Herb, with flowers in globose heads, common in rice fields at Ghansali
(Gupta 26). .
Crepis japonica Benth.
Herb, with flowers which are yellow, at 5,000 ft. (Gup/a 3),
Taraxacum officinale Wigg,
Herb, with yellow flowers, commonly seen at 4,000 ft. and at 10,000 ft.
near the sides of the lake at Masar Tal (Gupta 35, 78),
Prenanthes sp.
Herb, in fir forest at 10,000 ft., flowers, not seen (Gupta 74).
Sonchus oleraceous Linn.
Succulent herb with yellow flowers, at Ghansali (Guia 27),
Tragopogon gracile Don
Herb, with yellow flowers on grassy slopes at 7,000 ft. (Gupia 39),
**Tridax procumbens Linn.
Weak herb, common on roadsides at Ghansali (Gupéa 22),
Ainslea pteropoda DC,
Herb, with flowers in spike, common at 6,000 ft. (Gupta 44),
ERICACEAE
Rhododendron arboreum Smith
Tree, with conspicuous red flowers, at 7,000 ft. (Gupta 55),
aRele MaUpeyANCoE WAGE
Primula petiolaris Wall.
Herb, with purple flowers, common in damp shady places above
8,500 ft. (Gupta 85).
Androsace rotundifolia Hardw.
Herb, with pink flowers at 7,000 ft. (Gupta 40).
592 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
GENTIANACEAE
Gentiana argentea Royle
Small herb, in grass with blue flowers, on the edge of Masar Tal lake
at 10,000 ft. (Gupta 63).
BORAGINACEAE
Trichodesma indicum k, Br,
Hairy herb, with pale blue flowers, in the valley at 5,000 ft. (Gupta
38). :
SCROPHULARIACEAE
Verbascum thapsus Linn.
Herb, woolly, with yellow flowers in long terminal spikes (Gupta 37),
Veronica anagallis Linn.
Herb, with white flowers, at Ghansali (Gupta 12).
LABIATAE
Coleus sp.
Herb, at 4,000 ft. at Ghansali (Gupta 29).
Micromeria biflora Roxb.
Small herb, with pink flowers, common up to 7,000 ft. (Gupia).
Salvia lanata Roxb.
Woolly herb, with blue flowers, at 5,000 ft. (Gupta 33),
Ajuga bracteosa Wall.
Hairy herb, with lilac flowers, at Ghansali (Gup/a 8).
NYCTAGINACEAE
Boerhavia repens Linn.
Herb, with minute pink flowers, at Ghansali (Gufia 1).
POLYGONACEAE
Polygonum plebejum R, Br.
Small herb, with minute flowers, at Ghansali (Guia 6).
P. alatum Bych.-Ham.
Herb, with whitle fowers, at Ghansali (Gupta 25).
P. orientale Linn.
Hairy herb, with red flowers, in racemes at 4,500 ft. (Gupta 25).
**P, viviparum Linn.
Herb, with coriaceous leaves, flowers not seen by me, common in fir
forest (Gupta 68).
BOTANICAL EXPLORATIONS IN | TEHRI GARH WAL 993
P. capitatum Buch.-Ham.
Herb, with pink flowers, at 9,000 ft. in damp places (Gu Ala 76).
LAURACEAE
Cinnamomum tamala Nees
Large shrub, with aromatic three-nerved leaves, at 4,500 ft. (Gupia).
Machilus odoratissima Nees.
Large tree, with lanceolate leaves (Gupta 49).
EUPHORBIACEAE
Euphorbia pilosa Linn.
Juicy herb, with yellow green bract, at 6,000 ft. (Gupta 45).
E. royleana Boiss.
Cactus-like fleshy shrub, common on dry rocky cliffs (GuAta).
Mallotus philippinensis Muell.-Arg.
Small tree, with red powder in capsule (Gupta).
SALICACEAE
Salix elegans Wall.
Small tree, common at Chirbatya, at 7,000 ft. (Gupta 30).
CONIFERAE
Taxus baccata Linn.
Trees with peculiar aromatic smell, at 10,000 ft. on way to Masar Tal
(Gupta 76). ;
ORCHIDACEAE
Goodyera repens R, Br.
Ground orchid, with leaves having shining veins, in fir forests at Masar
Tal (Gupta 64).
Cypripedium cordigerum Don
Herb, with solitary terminal flower, in fir forest (Gupta 73).
LILIACEAE
Asparagus filicinus Buch.-Ham.
Erect herb, with tuberous roots, in fir forest (Gupta 79).
Polygonatum verticillatum Allioni
Herb, with flowers in whorled spikes, in fir forest at Masar Ta
(Gupta 77).
(List of the plants from Sahsru Tal to be continued.)
594 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
REFERENCES
AUDEN, J. B. (1937): Structure of the Himalaya in Garhwal, Records of thz
Geological Survey of India, 71 : 407-433.
BRANpDis, Sir D. (1883): On the distribution of forests in India, /nzdian
Forester, 9 : 173-183, 221-223.
————— (1874): Forest flora of Northwest and Central India,
London.
ee — (1906): Indian Tree. London:
BURRARD, S, and HAyvpBN, H. H. (1907-1908): A sketch of the geography
and geology of the Himalayan mountains in Tibet. Calcutta.
CoLtett, H. (1911): Flora Simlensis. Calcutta.
CowLes, H. C. (1911): The cause of vegetative cycles, Botanical Gazette
1; 161-183.
° DupDGEON, W. (1920): A contribution to the ecology of Upper Gangetic Plain
Journ. Indian Botanical Society., 1 : 296-323.
and KENOVER, L. A. (1925): Ecology of Tehri Garhwal. A
contribution to the ecology of western Himalaya. Journ. Indian Botanical
Society. 4: 233-285. :
HENRY FRowp, M. A. (1907): Imperial Gazetteer of India, London.
HrERON, M. A. (1937): General report of the Geological Survey of India for
the Year 1936. = jewjoax me ALV.LS
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‘209 ‘IsTEy ‘Yen Avquiog ‘‘uanore
OBSERVATIONS ON THE BIRD LIFE OF
MADHYA PRADESH
BY
C. E. HEWETSON, LF.S. (Retd.)
(With a map and tour plates)
SCOPE
The justification for this article is that so far in India there have been
few accounts writte by a person who has lived for nearly 30 years
(1926-1955) in one State of India, and has recorded the status of the local
birds. Ornithological surveys collect all the birds they can find, but have
only a short time to assess the relative abundance or status of each
species. Books like the Fauna of British India describe the distribution
of birds by the specimens received from different places, but have no
idea whether these represent samples of an evenly distributed population
or of locally distributed pockets, or of passage migrants. In addition,
central India has been unfortunate in that few naturalists have worked in
it, either zoologists or botanists, and records are correspondingly meagre.
This article therefore attempts to assess the status and local distribution
of the species which can be expected to occur in Madhya Pradesh. They
are my own personal observations since 1928. I have also given
references to other articles on bird life in central India.
The extent of the area covered is the State of Madhya Pradesh as it
existed after January 1, 1948, i.e., with the addition of 14 states to the
old unit known as the Central Provinces and Berar. During 28 years
I have seen every part of the State, but I have spent only a few days in
the northernmost district of Sagar. Without intensive specimen collecting
a close observer can expect to see round about 350 species of birds
in central India if he keeps on for 15-20 years. ;
METHOD OF STUDY
The observations are all visual and I have not shot any birds. for
identification in the hand. As I have not attempted to determine the
boundaries of geographical races, this does not matter for the birds which
are easily recognized, but my observations on the groups of birds without
strongly marked colour characteristics or which are difficult to observe for
other reasons are admittedly deficient. These groups are the warblers
and associates, the larks and pipits, the owls and the quails.
VALUE
I hope these observations will be of value as indicating in broad outline
the pattern of bird distribution in a large part of central India and will also
provide some ecological data of the birds found in each main habitat.
The birds listed and observed by me make up the main bird population,
6
596 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
but occasional individual stragglers may be found from year to year.
Particularly in winter, birds wander about over the Indian continent, and
in peculiar weather conditions unusual birds may pass through.
HABIDATS
The following main habitats (biotopes) may be recognized though
of course they grade into each other :
A. Closed Mixed Deciduous or Sal Forest. Plates I, II.
B. Open Cultivation and Waste Lands. Plate IIL.
C. Scrub Forest intermediate between A and B. Plate IV.
D. Reservoirs and Irrigation lakes or ponds (tanks).
E. River Beds. Plate LV.
A. Closed Mixed Deciduous or Sal Forest
From the bird’s point of view I class all the closed forest as one
biotope. ‘The Mixed Deciduous Forest does contain a number of
variations important to the forest officer, the ecologist or the botanist, but
within wide limits they provide similar living conditions for birds. No
forests are so continuous or dense that small gaps or blanks are not
found here and there; and these breaks in the continuous forest provide
the variety of plants and food which enable a large number of bird species
to live. In the Sal Forest there is some change in that there are many
-imore borers in sal (Sorea robusta) and the rougher bark provides cover
for bark haunting insects, so that in sal forests there are more wood-
peckers, nuthatches, etc. A more profound change is often brought
about by the forest officer in creating pure plantations of teak etc, but so
far these are not on a sufficiently large scale or so continuous as to change
the bird population markedly.
In the higher hills of the Satpuras conditions are cooler and moister,
and to a certain extent do provide conditions in the hot weather which are
favourable to birds which live in slightly moister conditions than are usual
in the dry deciduous forests. The characteristic species of the mixed
deciduous forest are given below. By characteristic I mean birds which
are found more in the forest than in other biotopes and are present in
sufficient numbers to be significant in the biological sense:
1. Tree Pie, 2. Grey Tit, 3. Jungle Babbler, 4. Redvented
Bulbul, 5. Magpie Robin, 6. Locally, the Shama, 7. Tickell’s Blue
Flycatcher, 8. Whitebrowed Fantail Flycatcher—locally replaced on hills
by, 9. Whitespotted Fantail Flycatcher, 10. Wood Shrike, 11. Scarlet
Minivet, 12. Small Minivet, 13. Large Cuckoo Shrike, 14. Black
Drongo, 15. Whitebellied Drongo, 16. Racket-tailed Drongo, 17. Tailor
Bird, 18. Blackheaded Oriole, 19. Greyheaded Myna, 20. Common
Myna, 21. Yellowthroated Sparrow (as a breeding bird in February-—
May), 22. Tree Pipit in winter, 23. White-eye, 24. Purple Sunbird,
25. Flowerpecker, 26. Pitta(in May, June), 27. Mahratta Woodpecker,
28. Goldenbacked Woodpecker, 29. Large Green Barbet, 30. Crimson-
breasted Barbet, 31. Common Hawk Cuckoo, 32. Large Indian Para-
keet, 33. Roseringed Parakeet, 34. Blossomheaded Parakeet, 35. Blue
Jay, 36. Common Bee-eater, 37. Whitebreasted Kingfisher, 38. Common
Grey Hornbill, 39. Common Indian Nightjar, 40. Jungle Nightjar, 41.
Crested Serpent Eagle, 42. Crested Hawk Hagle, 43. White-eyed Buzzard,
(wosjamapy “sf °D 2 s0joyf)
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JOURN. BomBay Nat. HIsT. Soc.
Sal Forest with small blank. Narainpur, Bastar.
Mixed Deciduous Forest in drier climate in December.
(Photos : C. E. Hewetson)
Akola, Berar.
THE BIRD LIFE OF MADHYA PRADESH 597
44, Shikra 45. Common Green Pigeon, 46. Spotted Dove, 47. Common
Peafowl, 48. Grey Junglefowl in teak area, Red Junglefowl in sal forests,
49. Red Spurfowl, 50. Jungle Bush Quail, 51. Stone Curlew, 52.
Redwattled Lapwing.
In addition a few species are characteristic of the moister type. They
are local and do not occur in large numbers, but are interesting as
indicating a linkage of birds found in SW. India with Assam, Burma and
Malaya. Such are: 1. Velvetfronted Nuthatch, 2. Pied Shrike, 3. Nilgiri
Blackbird, 4. Whistling Thrush, 5. Scimitar Babbler.
B. Open Cultivation and Waste Lands
By this I mean lands which are nearly bare of trees and bushes
except along the field boundaries; and the overgrazed waste land of
villages. The characteristic birds are:
1.;Common Babbler, 2. Large Grey Babbler, 3. Yelloweyed Bab-
bler, 4. Pied Bushchat, 5. Stonechat, 6. Indian Robin, 7. Great Grey
Shrike, 8. Baybacked Shrike, 9. Rufousbacked Shrike, 10. Black Drongo,
13. Tailor Bird, 12. Brahminy Myna, 13. Common Myna, 14. Locally,
Bank Myna, 15. Locally, Pied Myna, 16. Baya Weaver Bird, 17. White-
throated Munia, 18. Crested Bunting locally, 19. Indian Pipit, 20. Little
Skylark, 21. Rufoustailed Lark, 22. Ashycrowned Finch Lark,
23. Blue Jay, 24. Green Bee-eater (except for August and September),
25. Hoopoe, 26. Pale Harrier, 27. Kestrel, 28. Blue Rock Pigeon, 29.
Spotted Dove, 30. Indian Ring Dove, 3). Red ‘Turtle Dove, 32. Com-
mon Quail, 33. Grey Partridge, 34. Stone Curlew, 35. Indian Courser,
36. Redwattled Lapwing, 37. Yellow-wattled Lapwing. |
C, Scrub Forest intermediate between A and B
By Scrub I mean the lands lying between the open treeless cultivation
and the closed continuous forest. The amount of woody growth varies
but typicaily there are at least scattered trees of mohwa (J/adhuca latt-
folia), or Harra (Terminalia chebula) or tendu (Diospyros melanoxylon),
and a proportion of coppice and bushes. ‘This habitat is quite favour-
able to a number of species and the bird population is intermediate bet-
ween Aand B. Certain forest-loving species are absent but most of the
birds of open cultivation can find open spaces.
It is not necessary to repeat the names of the birds.
—D. Reservoirs and Irrigation lakes or ponds (tanks)
Lakes, Reservoirs, or Tanks are of all sizes from expanses of water
covering thousands of acres to village ponds under one acre. The greater
part of big lakes with deep water are more or less useless to birds for
feeding, but they may rest on them. It is the silted-up edges of the
tanks, the water of moderate depth with weeds growing below the surface
which provide the optimum habitat for water birds. ‘The plants found
depend on the depth of water, and the same succession is found round
most tanks.
The characteristic-birds which feed here mainly or completely are:
1. Wiretailed Swallow, 2. Yellow Wagtail, 3. Large Pied Wagtail,
4, White Wagtail, 5. Common Bee-eater, 6. Pied Kingfisher, 7. Common
Kingfisher, 8. Whitebreasted Kingfisher, 9. Hoopoe, 10. Brahminy Kite,
11. Fishing Eagle, 12. Coot, 13. Bronzewinged Jacana, 14. Pheasant-tailed
598 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Jacana, 15. Sarus Crane, 16. River Tern, 17. Redwattied Lapwing, 18.
Blackwinged Stilt, 19. Wood Sandpiper, 20. Common Sandpiper, 21.
Green Sandpiper, 22. Greenshank, 23. Little Stint, 24. Common Snipe,
25. Little Cormorant, 26. Snake Bird, 27. White Ibis, 28. Black Ibis, 29.
Whitenecked Stork, 30. Painted Stork, 31. Openbilled Stork, 32. Grey
Heron, 33. Little Egret, 34. Cattle Egret, 35. Paddy Bird, 36. Nukta,
37. Cotton Teal, 38. Common Teal, 39. Garganey, 40. Pintail, 41. Spot-
bill, 42. Shoveller, 43. White-eyed Pochard, 44. Little Grebe.
E. River Beds
In this biotope I include both the broad, often sandy, beds of large
rivers like the Narmada or Mahanadi as well as beds of smaller nalas
which hold water. ‘The nala beds may be divided into several sub-types:
(1) Bare sandy beds with deep pools.
(2) Rocky beds or rock and sand with bushes of tamarisk etc. and
small trees.
(3) The banks which may be bare, or covered by trees like Tevmz-
nalia aryjuna and Syzygium cumint with varying amounts of
bush and scrub.
Each section of the bed is the province of one species or a group of
birds, and every niche is fully exploited. Characteristic species are:
1. Large Pied Wagtail, 2. Sand-Lark, 3. Pied Kingfisher, 4. Com-
mon Kingfisher, 5. Whitebreasted Kingfisher, 6. Brownheaded Storkbilled
Kingfisher, 7. Brown Fish Owl, 8. Brahminy Kite, 9. Great Stone Plover,
10. River Tern, 11. Whiskered Tern, 12. Blackbellied Tern, 13. Little
Tern, 14. Indian Skimmer, 15. Little Indian Pratincole, 16. Redwattled
Lapwing, 17. Spurwinged Plover, 18. Little Ring Plover, 19. Common
Sandpiper, 20. Green Sandpiper, 21. Wood Sandpiper, 22. Greenshank,
23. Little Stint, 24. Little Cormorant, 25. Common Cormorant, 26.
Indian Snake Bird, 27. Barheaded Goose, 28. Ruddy Sheldrake.
BiRD MOVEMENTS
Apart from giving a picture of the pattern of the distribution of birds
such a protracted study provides a good deal of information about bird
movements. ‘There are three main movements:
A. The migration of birds which nest outside India to the north,
and are winter visitors.
B. The migration of certain species from south India in the sum-
mer for breeding.
C. Movements of the resident birds which are caused by the need
to get food. These are not so regular or complete as the
movements in B and C,
A. The first type of migration has already been described very fully in
all books, the long distance winter migrants are well known, and it is not
necessary to describe this here.
B. The second type of movement from south to north, or west to
east, affects only a few species. ‘They are, so faras is known at present :
1. Paradise Flycatcher, 2. Pitta. 3. Golden Oriole, 4. Southern
Blackbird (Zurdus simillimus), 5. Yellowthroated Sparrow, 6. Pied
Crested Cuckoo, and perhaps other cuckoos,
JOURN. BomBay Nat. Hist. Soc. Prace Lh
i
tos Ne Hix MeWQ.Sey
SAN 2 SR SSCS
A . ws ~~ sy
Degraded open Grazing Grounds with bushes of Palas (Butea f
Hiwar (Acacia leucophloea). Ner, Yeotmal.
(Photos : C. E. Hewetson)
rondosa) and
Journ. BomBAY Nat. Hist. Soc. PLATE IV
Ree
Wewws
MQ
SRR ‘ . : S SS Sssx“s GCC
Junction of the Godavari and Indravati rivers in extreme south of the State.
(Photos : C. E. Hewetson)
THE BIRD LIFE OF MADHYA PRADESH 599
C. The third type of movement is less regular and is connected with
food supply rather than reproduction. Though some such movements take
place each year, it is the exceptional years when they are emphasized and
made obvious. In 195] and 1952 the rains were deficient over a large
part of the State and this led to a very big exodus of the insect-eating
birds in 1953. Though as I say, this was exceptional, every year there is
a thinning out of the birds in July to mid-September. In this period the
bird population, both by species and numbers, is atits minimum. In
the rains of 1953, following two years of drought over a large part of
Western Madhya Pradesh, the birds left were mainly the seed eaters and
those with a varied diet. The only pure insect eaters left were the
Common Swift. The following is a list of birds which form the hard core
of the resident population, and were still found during the rains of 1953:
Crows, Sparrow, Indian Robin, Larks, Pipits, Doves, Common
Swift, Mynas, Babblers.
Of the insect-eating birds, the bee-eaters and all species of flycatcher
were absent completely. 95 per cent of the drongos had left, and rollers
and shrikes were rare.
To my mind in 1954 and 1955 these last classes of birds were fewer
than normal, and apart from the interruption in breeding caused by the
drought and the exodus, there may have been a high mortality among
this class of bird which do not normally migrate and may have had no
ingrained knowledge of which direction to migrate in. The bee-eaters
are more regular migrants and perhaps have regular rains quarters. These
movements indicate that the insects on which the birds feed are also
affected by the years of low rainfall: though insects seem plentiful in the
rains, many of them are probably inedible: as far as bee-eaters are cons
cerned it is known that the bees also migrate from the cold, damp areas
such as the higher hills of the Satpuras in the height of the rains—and the
bee-eaters certainly leave these areas each year, and as I said above, are
much less common in the plains of Madhya Pradesh in the rains, and
were completeiy absent in 1953, except for parties on migration.
ILOC AIG IP Osw Wig Ngee) iS
The last observation leads me on to the subject of local populations
and their significance. We are all familiar with flocks of migrating birds,
and many birds in their winter quarters habitually roost together, such
as swallows and wagtails in reed beds, but these are non-breeding birds
and their assoeiation may be by mere chance, largely controlled by the
small number of suitable roosts. Of the resident population, large assem-
blies of crows, parrots and mynas are familiar sights of any part of
India. On a smaller scale many other resident species roost together at
night. The bee-eaters are a well-known example. In the evening, the
outlying birds start flying in, and as they go other birds join them and
they all fly along together chirruping and gliding, and similar parties
come in from all sides to roost together. The dronecs toa certain extent
do the same. The movement is less clear cut in the evenings since they
feed into the dusk, but if one is out before dawn one will see no drongos,
and after a time one secs them posting out to their daily beats. Another
species I heve observed is the Whitebacked Munia. ‘These have dormi-
torics, and one such was in a small paim tree near my bungalow in
Raipur, and I used to watch the birds flying in from all sides in the
600 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
evening with a strong swinging flight quite unlike their normal fluttering.
It is interesting to speculate to what extent these local roosting parties
represent distinct clans or populations which select mates within the
colony and to which the young, when the breeding season is over, are
taught to return. The thought that these roosting colonies are not chance
assemblies but may have 4 more permanent link was suggested to me by
seeing the parties of migrating bee-eaters in 1953. There were definite
parties of 10-25 birds flying together in a very loose flock, hawking
insects as they went, but flying in one definite direction and passing along
without halting. If I had thought of this earlier it would have been
instructive to plot the roosting centres in any one locality and to try and
map the area covered during the day by the birds that roost together at
night, and to see how many there are in one locality. The Blue-tailed
Bee-eater is a very definite colonial species and one always sees a party of
them together even during the day.
Similar group activities are suggested by species which form definite
breeding colonies such as several species of swallows ; or detached colo-
nies of such birds as Bank Mynas or the Grackle. These birds may be
considered as the exact opposite of migrating species in as much as they
stay attached to one restricted locality and fail to colonise the surrounding
countryside which is equally suited to their requirements. Bank Mynas
provide one of the best examples of discontinuous distribution in India
and, considering they have such a varied diet and are quite strong on the
wing, it is surprising how local and patchy their distribution is. Such
detached groups must form, one would think, isolated populations that
breed within the group. If this is true, varieties or sub-species could
easily form in the same way as in bird populations of islands. Another
species with very discontinuous distribution is the Emerald Dove. ‘The
small group which exists on the Balaghat-Mandla border must be sepa-
vated by 200 miles from the birds in Bastar, which are the nearest group
in Madhya Pradesh.
PROBLEMS WORTH ATTENTION
I venture to set down a number of bird problems on which infor-
mation is needed and where present knowledge is scanty or wanting.
These hints may be of value to anyone who takes up the study of birds i in
central India, and wants to know where to start :
(a) Status of certain species which have not been recorded in recent
years but which may occur, such as:
1. Great Indian Bustard, 2. bluebreasted Quail, 3. Blewitt’s Owl,
4, Blewitt’s Painted Bush Quail, 5. Large Indian Pratincole, 6. Chestnut
Bittern.
(0) Foster parents of the Indian Cuckoo (C. micropterus). It is
curiotis that so little is known about this relatively common cuckoo. It is
a very arboreal species and is sexually active at a time when birds which
construct hammock nests at the ends of branches, such as drongos, the
Paradise Flycatcher, orioles and minivets, are nesting, and these are the
most likely hosts. Also other problems connected with all species of
Indian parasitic cuckoos.
(c) The status of several cuckoos has not been determined. Several
appear to be visitors in the months of May—July. For instance the
THE BIRD LIFE.OF MADHYA PRADESH 601
Cuckoo (C. canorus) has been recorded mostly in these months and acts
as if breeding, but no eggs have been recorded from central India. The
hosts are not known for certain either.
(d) Status of the Bluetailed Bee-eater. It may be a passage migrant
in March-April and September : or may exist in small pockets in isolated
localities.
(é) The Nilgiri Blackbird is another species which appears likely to be
a migrant. It is very common, for instance in Chikalda in May, but I
saw none in the rains or in the cold weather. It is possible the birds dis-
perse into the Melghat as soon as the hot weather ends. It is also found
in a number of isolated places along the Satpuras, but all my records are
in the hot weather and rains. The migration of the Pitta is well established.
The Paradise Flycatcher is also a migrant, but what. proportion of birds
breed regularly is uncertain : and whether any stay in central India all the
year is doubtful.
(f) Another locally distributed species about which little is known is
the Green Munia. It is a central Indian bird. It is very common in parts
of the Melghat in March—May: another locality is Aheri—Allapalli from
where it was recorded by Hume and again seen by me in 1949. Also
parts of Bastar. Practically nothing has been recorded about its breeding.
(g) Very useful work could be done in recording the status of some
of the larger birds which are most liable to become scarce or éxtinct as
the country is opened up and the human population increases. The Great
Indian Bustard may already have disappeared. The Sarus Crane is protec-
ted to a certain extent by religious sentiment but the breeding places may
be cleared or disturbed. A census of the birds at 10-year intervals is the
only way to check this. Many of the herons, storks etc. breed in colonies
and can thus be enumerated fairly easily. The Painted Stork is a good
example. Censuses of such birds are very useful.
(hr) A field quite untapped in India is the usefulness or destructive-
ness of different species. We know very little about the diet of birds and
to wkat extent they play an effective part in controlling insect pests.
(z) Resident ducks are another type of bird whose numbers might
fall and the species disappear. The Spotbill is a good case, and a census
of birds at 10-year intervals would be valuable.
In conclusion I summarize other papers which I could trace on bird
life in central India so as to provide future workers with all the informa-
tion available.
IC ReACIS Rv
The earliest paper is one by R. C. H. Moss King (1911), ‘ The Resi-
dent Birds of Saugar and Damoh ’.
This is based on a three-year period of duty and does not claim to be
exhaustive. The author guarantees, however, that all the birds listed do
breed in these districts. He lists 155 species. Out of these, only one,
Amaurornis akool, the Brown Crake, does not appear in my list. He
gives details of breeding dates for some species. I have included a
number of these in my record with acknowledgements.
The second paper is by B.B. Osmaston on the Birds of Pachmarhi.
He lists 135 species and the only unexpected bird is the Kokla or Wedge-
tailed Green Pigeon (Sphenocercus sphenurus). He states he heard the
very distinctive call, and in conversation at Oxford in 1955 he confirms
this. It has not been recorded by anyone else.
602 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
In 1927, R. 5S. P. Bates contributed an article on Impressions of Pach-
marhi Birds during his stay on a course. He gives details of birds seen
breeding, but does not give any unusual birds.
In 1931, E. A. D’Abreu, Curator of the Nagpur Museum, published some
notes on the Fauna of British India, which had just been completed, with
reference to birds found in central India. He followed this up in 1935
with a list, which he tried to make as complete as possible, of all birds
seen by him or received in the Museum or of which notes had been
supplied by others. He also indicated birds which might occur but had
not been recorded. In all he lists 430 birds of which 21 are different
races so that 409 is the number of species. A large number of the birds
given in his list, but not appearing in mine, are birds which mzght occur,
or occasional stragglers. ‘The following 23 species given by D’Abreu,
which I have not recorded are worth mention as they may be found by
future workers, and if one knows that their occurrence is possible one is
more likely to be on the look-out for them:
1. Whiteheaded Babbler. Zurdozdes striatus (Dumont).
2. Purple Thrush. Cochoa purpurea Hodgs.
3. Rufous-tailed Flycatcher. |= 19) | 432709) 127, showed gra-
4. Eyprepocnemts roseus dual _ varia-
Uvarov aL Oe RZ 5:40) el OMe S90) less tion, depend-
5. Spathosternum prasint- ing upon the
ferum Walker Moy Aa COE | AUS) Hh SEO |} 119835) increase in
the ratio of
6. Ceracris deflorata Brumer... a | B70 (nee? x 310 iP tars 0) the body
7. Hieroglyphus banian length.
Fabricius 12 | 40°50) 12 | 29:20/1°38
8. Huieroglyphus concolor
Herbst 14 | 54:25] 14 | 39:10 | 1:38
9. Catantops humilis humilis:
Serville 5 W293 0) Reel eee ope On eles s
10. Chrotogonus Concavus
Kirby ifey jf UkePI |] hs} IP BAL | ThoSKS
11. Phlaeoba panteli
Bolivar 10 | 27°60} 10 | 19:70 1:40 |‘ Dorso-lateral
mode’ or
between
| Modes I & II,
12. Choroedocus insignis Mode II or ‘la-
Thunberg BY) || SER) || S| SEPSO) |) IeSal teral ’.
13. Choroedocus sp. Sino 0250 3) cePlls |) lesz
14. Gastrimargus transversus
Thunberg 36 36°10 2 | 25°40} 1:42 |‘Dorso-lateral’.
4 | 37°50 4 | 24°60/1:53 |Mode II ‘ later-
ae
4 | 37°42 4 | 23:25) 1:61 |Between Modes
II and IIL.
15. O8¢edaleus abruptus
Thunberg i) || ARR} 8 | 14°52 | 1:58 |Between Modes
II and III.
16 Pavrahieroglyphus bilineatus | Mode III or
Bolivar Sool 48) BSR sy yy zailosko) 1 a7 ‘hanging’.
f TEAS HS were en in 1 actually copulating Weer in nie CELLO) as
well as in the field)
Journ., Bombay Nat. Hist. Soc.
EXPLANATION OF PLATE
(a) Schistocerca gregaria Forskal in copulation (After Kunckel, reproduced from
Uvarov, 1928).
(b) Catantops humilis humilis Serville in copulation.
(c) Sphingonotus indus Saussure in copulation on a_ leaf.
(d) Chrotogonus concavus Kirby in copuiation on the ground.
(e) Phlaeoba panteli Bolivar in copulation.
(f) Choroedocus insignis Thunberg in copulation (Original photograph by
Dr. V. G. Jhingran, reproduced by his kind permission).
(g) Oedaleus abruptus Thunberg in copulation on the ground.
(h) Oedaleus abruptus Thunberg in copulation on a leaf.
1) Parahieroglyphus bilineatus Bolivar in copulation on the ground.
§ly I i
The larger insect is Q, the smaller ¢
COPULATION IN SHORT-HORNED GRASSHOPPERS 667
case does the male turn upside down as in Parahieroglyphus bilineatus
(see below). Thus, it is evident that Oedaleus abruptus also forms a
link between Mode II (in Choroedocus sp., ratio 1.52) and Mode III
(in Parahieroglyphus bilineatus, ratio 1.72).
Lastly, comes the ‘hanging’ mode of copulation as seen in
Parahieroglyphus bilineatus Bolivar (Pl., fig. 7). (For fuller des-
cription see Katiyar, 1952.) Here the ratio is 1.72, the highest
among all the 16 species studied, the length of the female being
nearly 13th that of the male.
CONCLUSIONS
Based on the above discussion, the following are the brief
conclusions :
(1) Schistocerca gregaria copulates by Mode I or ‘riding’.
The ratio of the 9 :o body-length is 1.07, which is the lowest in ihe
present lot.
(2) As the ratio rises to 1.38, as in Chrotogonus. concavus
(Table I), the gradual backward shifting in the position of the male
over the female also occurs.
(3) The curvature of the abdomen of the males also increases
gradually with the variation in the position of the males in ‘riding
posture’.
(4) An intermediate mode of copulation between Mode I and
Mode II has been observed in Phlaeoba panteli (ratio 1.40), where
the male comes to lie in a ‘dorso-lateral’ posture on the side of the
female.
(5) Choroedocus insignis and Choroedocus sp. {ratios 1.51 and
1.52 respectively) copulate by Mode II or ‘lateral mcde’.
(6) An intermediate mode of copulation between Modes II and
III occurs in Oedaleus abruptus (ratio 1.58) and was also noted in a
few pairs of Gastrimargus transversus, where the ratio rose to 1.61.
(7) In Pavahieroglyphus bilineatus copulaticn occurs by Mode
III or ‘hanging mode’; the ratio is 1.72, the highest so far studied.
(8) In Gastrimargus transversus the intra-specific variation in
the mode of copulation occurs as the ratio varies.
SUMMARY
1. Various modes of copulation in 16 species of short-horned
erasshoppers were studied as follows:
(a) Schistocerca gregaria shows a typical example of Mode I.
Nine other species which also copulate by Mode I showed gradual
variation, depending upon the increase in the ratio of body-lengtth.
(b) Phlaeoba panteli shows an intermediate mode of copulation
or ‘dorso-lateral’ posture between Modes I[ and II.
(c) Choroedocus insignis and Choroedocus sp. copulate by
Mode II or ‘lateral mode’.
(d) Oedaleus abruptus shows an intermediate mode of copulation
between Modes II and III.
(e) Parahieroglyphus bilineatus shows a third mode of copulation
(Mode III or ‘hanging mode’),
—
668 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
(f) Gastrimargus transversus shows considerable intra-specific
variation in the mode of copulation, which varies from the dorso-lateral
(Mode II), and from latter to the ‘hanging type’ (Mode III).
2. The modes of copulation hitherto described are correlated with
the relative body-length of the two sexes in a species.
3. Some general conclusions from the above discussions are given,
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
This work was done in the Branch of Entomology, Forest
Research Institute, Dehra Dun, under the guidance of Dr. M. L.
Roonwal, Forest Entomologist (now Director, Zoological Survey of
India, Calcutta). The author expresses his gratitude to him for
valuable suggestions and for giving laboratory facilities.
References
Fedorov, S. M. (1927): Studies in copulation and oviposition of Anacridium
aegyptium L. (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Trans. Ent. Soc., London, 75 (1): 53-61.
Jhingran, V. G. (1944): An unusual mode of copulation in Heteracris capensis
Thunberg (Acrididae). Indian J. Ent., New Delhi, 5 (1-2) 1943: 243-244.
Kunckel d’Herculais, J. A. A. (1893-1905): Invasion des Acridiens Vulge
santerelles, en Algeria, Alger, 2 Vols. 1893-1905, 34 Pls., maps, tabl.
Katiyar, K. N. (1952): A new mode of copulation in the short-horned
grasshoppers (Orthoptera: Acrididae). Z. ang. Ent., Berlin & Hamburg, 34% (2):
284-290, 1 Pl.
Uvarov, B. P. (1928): Locusts and Grasshoppers. A hand-hook of their study
and control. London, (Imperial Bureau of Entomology).
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR
BY
A, G, Katawar, o.sc. & C. N. KELKaR, B.SC., D.C.T.
(Fisheries Station, Kolhapur)
(Communicated by Dr. C. V. Kulkarni,
Director of Fisheries, Bombay)
(With a map and two text figures)
IBNETER) OSDLUACEDIEOnN
_
Very little is at present known about the fresh water fish fauna
of Kolhapur District. The official gazetteer of the erstwhile Kolhapur
State edited by Campbell (1886) contains only a few local names of
fishes and a sketchy account of impressions about the ‘Fisheries’ as
it was understood at that time. Campbeli stated that the fisheries
of the State (now the Kolhapur District) were of little importance. In
making this statement, however, he appeared to have overlooked the
vast potentialities of fresh water resources which have improved con-
siderably during the last decade on account of the construction of new
reservoirs and weirs across small rivers.. Unfortunately, even the recent
work on regional survey of Economic Resources, India, Kolhapur
(Patil, 1950) has no mention of fisheries.
During the course of a survey of fresh water resources for the develop-
ment of Inland Fisheries, efforts were directed to find a local source
of supply of fish seed. Survey of sheets of water near Kolhapur
indicated the availability of young ones of Labeo fimbriatus a fish
locally known as ‘Tambir’, in large quantity. Presence of suitable
tanks and reservoirs in this region brightened the scope for developing
freshwater fisheries. In view of the aforesaid prospects of developing
fisheries, a freshwater fisheries station was established by the Govern-
ment of Bombay in 1951.
In this article, however, it is not intended to discuss the fisheries
as an industry but only to record the fish fauna occurring in the
waters of Kolhapur District. The need for such a check-list of fishes
occurring in this area has long been felt, particularly in view of the
prospects of developing fisheries in this part of the Deccan and the
zoo-geographical significance (Kulkarni, 1951) of some of the species
found in this region. |
The district of Kolhapur is a part of the western Deccan Plateau
lying along the eastern side of the Western Ghats. This district is
bounded on the north by South Satara District, on the west by
Ratnagiri District and on the south and east by Belgaum District.
The physical features are of a varied nature consisting of plains,
plateaus and hill ranges. Kolhapur District is traversed on the west
by the long range of the Western Ghats which has thrown out several
670 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL GIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
spurs in the east. The high altitude of these ranges and their copious
rainfall have given rise to a number of streams and rivers which
have formed small and large valleys. The drainage of the District
is north-eastwardly and flows into the river Krishna. The important
rivers of Kolhapur District are six in number, the Warna, Panchaganga,
Dudhganga, Vedaganga, Hiranayakeshi and Ghataprabha. These rivers,
which rise in the Western Ghats and flow south-east and north-east
across the Kolhapur plateau towards the Krishna, have generally steep
SCALE-1 INCH =40 MILES
D / Ss %
T R | (e T : %o,
gence aN
yes MIRAJ
bcc,
AAR Ww
FE Raw, CO a RY ,
I a gg SN
MAL KAPUR az =f = oP
CANHALA |
r)
SAR AW,
R.A. a aff 446.4 5
= (Sue si
Ss
KOLHAPUR a
KAgnt yy od eG
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yOARCAD
e'>5
KOLHAPUR DISTRICT
banks and soft with either clayey or rocky beds of varying depths.
In the course of the first few miles. of their course before they pass
out of the mountainous terrain, the rivers are fed by numerous streams.
Topographically the area covered by the District can roughly be
divided into two zones marked by broad climatic differences (i) the
western mountainous tract’ covered by the Western Ghats and _ iis
spurs, with valleys running in between. the spurs, and (ii) the main
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR 671
eastern plain. The elevation above sea level in the hilly west varies
from 1850 ft. in the valleys to 3,c00 ft. on the crest of Western
Ghats. The elevation in the eastern plains varies from 1,800 to
1,900 ft. above sea level. Like the rest of the western Deccan, tie
climate of the District, being under the influence of the sea breeze,
is mild and temperate. The range of temperature between the maxi-
mum and minimum is comparatively small. The maximum temperature
in the hot season seldom rises above 100°F. and the minimum in the
cold season rarely falls below 55°F., except at Kolhapur where it is
sometimes 48°F.
Like the western districts of the Bombay Deccan, Kolhapur
District receives its rain mainly from mid-June to December ; the greater
part of the rainfall, supplied by the south-west monsoon, is received
from mid-June to mid-October... From about mid-October the eastern
part of the District gets showers of the north-east monsoon. The
rainfall varies according to altitude; the higher altitudes in the north
get more rain than the comparatively lower altitudes in the south. The
variations in the rainfall from west to east, however, are very marked.
Bavda region in the western tracts gets 277 inches, whereas Kolhapur,
Hatkalangde and Shirol get only 39, 25 and 23 inches respectively.
Kolhapur District is plentifully supplied with water from quite a
number of rivers, streams, natural lakes, irrigation tanks, reservoirs and
perennial ponds. The numerous streams offer many sites suitable for
dams and weirs. With the implementation of several new irrigation
development schemes which have ja direct or indirect bearing on
fisheries, pisciculture is bound to gain more importance in this region.
Most of the collection of fish specimens was done in the river
Panchaganga from Prayag, about three miles west of Kolhapur, to
village Valivde about nine miles east of Kolhapur. The five streams,
Tulsi, Kasari, Bhogavati, Bramhi and Kumbhi unite to form the
Panchaganga at Prayag. The aforesaid tributaries of the Panchaganga
rise in the Western Ghats and flow through a hilly tract before they
unite to form the Panchaganga. Due to the construction of weirs on
the Panchaganga, a considerable quantity of water is retained in the
river, thereby affording suitable habitat for a large number of lish.
Further, when the tributaries of this river become shallow after
monsoon, fishes from these tributaries also migrate into the Panchaganga
for shelter and forage. The part of the river Panchaganga between
Prayag and the village Valivde forms a stretch of about 12 miles.
The banks and the bed in the aforesaid portion of the river are rocky,
sandy and at some places muddy. This portion of the river also has
large deep pools where additional water is retained by means of con-
struction of weirs near Kolhapur and Valivde village. When the
sluice gates of the weirs are opened before the commencement of the
monsoon, the river runs with a terrific turmoil. Hence the collection
in the river Panchaganga made at different times of the year represents
fish fauna of varied nature including bottom dwelling forms in switt
as well as stationary waters. The list of the fishes collected by us
is given below with both scientific and local Marathi names.
672
A".
AZ,
13
14.
118,
16,
17,
18.
io:
20,
Ne
Zee
(eyo)
24,
Uae
26.
lic
SO WNIAN
JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Scientific names.
Order :OPISTHOMI.
Family : MASTACEMBELIDAE.
Mastacembelus armatus (Lacep.)
Order : APODES.
Family : ANGUILLIDAE.
Anguilla anguilla (Ham.)
Order
Family : CYPRINIDAE.
Sub-family : Abramidinae
Chela clupeoides (B1.)
Chela phulo (Ham.)
Sub-family : Rasborinae.
Baritius bendelists (Ham.)
Barilius evezardi (Day)
Perilampus atbar (Ham.)
Danio aequipinnatus (McClelland)
Brachy-danio rario (Ham.)
Rasbora daniconius (Ham.)
Sub-family : Cyprininae.
Aspidoparia morar (Ham. )
Balttora shimogensis
Puntius amphibius (C. & V.)
Puntius dobsont (Day)
Puntius kolus (Sykes)
Puntius melanostigma (Day)
Puntius stigma (C. & V.)
Puntius sarana (Ham.)
Puntius ticto (Ham. )
Puntius (tor) khudree (Sykes)
Puntius (tor) mussullah (Sykes)
Puntius trasert (Hora & Misra)
Cirrhina tulungee (Sykes)
Cirrhina reba (Ham. )
* Cirrhina mrigala (Ham.)
Garra mullya (Sykes)
| Garra bicornuta (Rao)
: EVENTOGNATHI.
Local Marathi names,
Vam, Vambat.
Aheer.
Vadashi.
Alkut.
Jhorya.
Jhorya.
Sonukli.
Balooki.
Denies.
Amlee.
Phattar: chittu.
Khavli.
Parag.
Kolshi.
Khavli,.
Mhasheer.
aaa
Mulicha ganna.
Mallya.
”)
* Exotic fish introduced in Kolhapur waters.
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR 678
No. Scientific names Local Marathi names,
eee eee
28. | Labeo boggut (Sykes) ...| Sandasi, Sandas.
29. | Labeo fimbriatus (Bl.) ... | Tambir.
30. | Labeo calbasu (Ham.) ... | Kanas,
31. | Labeo porcellus (Heckel) ...| Tambudki.
32, | Labeo bata (Ham.) ...| Tambti.
33. |* Labeo rohita (Ham.) | see
34. |* Catla catla (Ham.)
35. | Rohtee coliv (Ham. ) eS Bhongi..
36. | Rohtee vigorsiz (Sykes) «| Phankut.
37.| Rohtee ogilbit (Sykes) . | Vatani.
38. | Schizmatorhynchus (Nukta) nukta (Sykes) ...| Nakata.
Family ; COBITIDAE.
39. | Lepidocephalichthys guntea (Ham.) Mori.
40. | Lepidocephalichthys thermalis (C. & V.) ... sp
41.) Nemachilichthys ruppelli (Sykes) pene hilclis
42.| Nemachilus denisonii (Day ) ...| Murunga.
43. | Nemachilus botius (Ham.) ...| Chikli.
44,| Nemachilus sp. ? ree @ lila ts
45. | Botia striata var. kolhapurensts nov. ...| Waghamasa.
Order : NEMATHOGNATHII.
Family ; SILURIDAE.
46.| Om pok bimaculatus (Bl.) -..| Wanz
47.| Ompok pabo (Ham.) ... | Kaliwanz.
48.| Wallago attu (Bl.) ..»| Valashivda,
Family : BAGRIDAE. |
49, | Mystus cavasius (Ham.) ... Katirna.
50. | Mystus seenghala (Sykes) .. | Singalu.
51. | Mystus malabaricus (Jerdon) .. Shingti.
52. | Mystus aor (Ham.) ... | Singalu.
53, | Rita hastata ( Val.) eeeurdus
54. | Rita pavimentata (Val.) ... | Ghoghrya.
Family : SISORIDAE.
55. | Bagarius bagarius (Ham.) ... | Khirit.
56. | Gagata ttchkeea (Sykes) | ... | Itchka,
57. | Glyptothorax lonah (Sykes). ... | Phattachittu.
58. | Gly ptothorax annandalez (Hora) ... | Phattarchatu.,
“Exotic fish introduced in Kolhapur waters.
674 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
No. | Scientific names. ~ |Local Marathi names.
Family : SCHILBEIDAE,
59. | Proeutropicthys taakree (Sykes) «| Munvi, Vyadi.
60. | Neotropius khavalchor Kulkarni - ...| Khavalchor.
61. | Pseudotropius atherinoides (B1.) ... | Sura,
Order : CyPRINODONTES,
Family : CYPRINODONTIDAE.
62. | Aplochilus lineatus (C. & V.)
Order : SYNENTOGNATHI.
Family : XENENTODONTIDAE.
63. | Xenentodon casxcila ..| Tokali,
Orders WA BY RUN DHT Cie
Family : OPHICEPHALIDAE.
64.| Chana gachiia (Ham.) ...| Dokrya.
65. | Chana leucopunctatus (Sykes) _...| Kalamasa, Murtrel.
66. | Chana marulius (Ham. ) ...| Kalamasa, Murrel.
67. | Chana striatus (Bl. ) ... | Mhangsha.
68. | *Osphronemus goramy (Lacep.) SSNs wae Rie
Order : PERCOMORPHI.
Family : AMBASSIDAE.
69.| Ambassis ranga (Ham.) ...| Kachki, Chembardi.
70. | Ambassis nama (Ham.) ... | _Kachki, Chembardi.
Order : GOBIOIDEA.
Family : GOBIIDAE.
71. | Glossogobius giuris (Ham.) ...| Kharpya.
noes PEE LENE EE TE TEI EE IS ET IT IT
* Kxotic fish intrcduced in Kolhapur waters.
SYSTEMATIC ACCOUNT
Chela clupeoides (Bloch)
In his account of Chela clupeoides Day has stated that as a rule
the number of rays in the anal fin vary from 13-15 (2/11-13) but in
the specimens from Deccan he found them to be 2/13-15. In the
specimens collected at Kolhapur the number of rays in the anal fin
S76
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR 675
Colour—Day in his account has described the coloration as silvery
but has not mentioned about a distinct row, sometimes two rows, of
about 8-10 black dots on each side as found in the specimens collected
at Kolhapur.
Size—Day has stated that this species attains at least six inches
in length. The largest size of C. clupeoides found at Kolhapur
measured 9.5”.
Brachy-danio rerio (Ham.)
In the specimens of Brachy-danio rerio collected at Kolhapur, dorsal
does not commence opposite the anal as described by Day but it is
slightly anterior to anal. Number of rays in the anal fin of the
aforesaid specimens is 13-14 (2-3/11) instead of 15 to 16 as described
by Day.
Balitora shimogensis Silas & Kalawar
This new species of Homalopterid fish is discovered by E. G. Silas
and A. G. Kalawar almost simultaneously near Shimoga in Mysore
State and near Kolhapur in Bombay State. The diagnostic characters
and other details about the fish will be published elsewhere.
Occurrence of this fish in Kolhapur and its zoo-geographical
significance have been recorded (Kulkarni 1951).
Barbus fraseri Hora & Misra
ID, @/S8 Iho RAB Wo OS Alc By 58 (Co OR BBs ts Vigo s
This fish was described as a new species from Deolali, Nasik
District, by Hora and Misra when they commented on the collection
made by Dr. Fraser. The description was based only on very few
specimens and that too of only females. As males were collected
for the first time only in the present collection, it is considered desirable
to furnish a brief description of the fish.
This species of Barbus has a graceful form with a slightly
compressed body and its dorsal profile slightly more convex than the
ventral. Abdomen is rounded. Head is small and somewhat depressed.
Mouth is small, crescentic, opening forwards inferiorly. Lips are fleshy
and continuous at the angle of the mouth. Length of the head is
5-2 in total length and 3.9 in standard length. Height of the body
is 3.5 to 4.1 in total length. Inter-orbital space is slightly convex
and smooth.
The eyes are prominent and without adipose lids. They are situated
on the lateral margin of the head so that half of diameter can be seen
in the dorsal aspect and the other half in the ventral aspect. Eyes
are situated nearer the snout in the length of the head. Their
diameter is contained three times in the length of the head,
8 times in the length of the snout, and is almost equal to the inter-
orbital space.
There are two short maxillary barbels situated at the angle of the
mouth. Lateral line is incomplete and extends to about 6-9 scales.
There are 42-47 scales along the lateral line and 7-8 rows of scales
11
676 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
between it and the base of the ventral fin. There are 14 series of
scales between the base of the dorsal and ventral fin.
Origin of the dorsal fin is almost opposite the ventral, commencing
midway between the tip of the snout and the base of the caudal fin.
The upper edge of the dorsal is concave and its last undivided ray
is osseous and serrated. Dorsal is slightly longer than the head and
considerably shorter than the depth of the body. In the case of the
male, the last undivided ray of the anal fin is much elongated, while
in the female no such elongation of ray is marked.
A. S&arbus trasevi (male)
B. Barbus fraseri (female)
Colour of the body is yellowish olive with a silvery streak on the
sides. A faint golden spot is present on the occiput which turns
brownish in preserved specimens. A small black spot is present at
the base of the commencement of the dorsal fin and another black
spot at the base of the caudal.
The female specimens closely resemble Barbus fraseri (Hora & Misra
1938). No reference was made to the distinguishing characters of the
male. We have found that the adult males of Barbus fraseri have an
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR 677
elongated anal fin and they are smaller in size as compared with the
females of the species. This sexual dimorphism may be regarded
as a character to distinguish the sexes. The secondary sexual difference
noted above can be made out clearly from a comparison of the
drawings of male and female specimens here reproduced.
MEASUREMENTS IN MILLIMETRES
| Sprrlee | Spaces | Sp.3 ¢
Total length 46:0 45-0 41:0
Length of the head 9:0 85 &°0
Height of the body 13°0 11°0 10:0
Diameter of the eye 35% 3'0 3°0 2°5
Length of the caudal ae WlsS 11:0 10°0
Height of the dorsal 060 10°0 90 9:0
Length of the pectoral ues 8'0 7:0 6:0
Length of anal ne 3°5 5°U 80
Length of ventral ae 6°5 Be) 6°0
Inter-orbital width ane 325 3:0 3°0
ES PD
Botia striata yar, kolhapurensis nov.
ID, AIOE 1’, B/OTUOSS Wo BNGB Bro B/S 8 Go Ue
The body is somewhat compressed laterally and the dorsal profile
in front of the dorsal fin is a broad incline, which becomes an abrupt
descent from the nostrils to the tip of the snout. The depth of the
body is contained 34 to 3% times in standard length and 44 to 4% times
in total length. The depth of the body is almost equal or slightly
greater than the length of the head. The length of the head is con-
tained 3% times in standard length and 4? times in total length. The
head is greatly compressed and its length is nearly equal to the distance
between the tip of the snout and the anterior root of the pectoral iin.
Width of the head is more than half its own depth but almost half
the length of the head. The eyes are of moderate size and their
diameter is contained about 4 to 4+ times in length of the head.
Diameter of the eye is almost equal or slightly less than the length
of the suborbital spines. The spine is bifid at the base. Barbels 38,
subequal, the mandibular being the shortest pair. The mouth is
crescentic when shut and is an oval aperture when open. ‘The distance
between the angles of the mouth when wide opened is equal to the
diameter of the orbit. The upper lip overhangs the lower and both
are somewhat thick and suctorial.
The dorsal fin arises in front of the origin of the ventral and both
are situated nearer the caudal than the tip of the snout. The height
of the dorsal fin is slightly greater than the length of the anal and
ventral fins respectively. The ventrals are shorter than the anal. The
anal possess two simple and five branched rays. The length of the
pectoral is more than twice the suborbital spine and is much longer
than the snout. The margin of the dorsal fin is entire and that of
the caudal is deeply forked. The caudal lobes are of equal length,
678, JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
The anterior of nostrils is surrounded by a very large glandular fold
which covers the posterior nares. The opening of the latter is a wide
funnel and that of the former a slit marked by glandular lips of the
fold. The lateral line is entire and straight and terminates anteriorly
in the upper corner of the gill opening. The scales are absent on the
head, operculum and chest. They are small and nondeciduous.
The body is diversified by broad dark brownish green and narrow
yellow bands which from behind the nape form slightly oblique hoops
directed backwards. These bands do not completely surround the body.
The bands fade into the ground colour as they reach the ventral surface.
The ground colour is light yellowish. The broad dark bands bear
light. streaks of variable number forming incomplete hoops. The
primary types of dark and yellow bands are broader on the sides
of the head and are directed obliquely forwards... The primary yellow
bands on the body are broad at the base and become narrow as they
reach the dorsal surface. On the upper surface of the head, the dark
and yellow streaks form a trident mark. The fins are pale and barred,
the caudal bears two entire and one or two interrupted stripes.
The specimens closely resemble Botia striata (Rao) but differ on
it on the points mentioned below.
(es striata (kolhapurensis)
|
|
{
|
1
57 mim.
B. striata (Rao)
1. Maximum size of the fish ...| 95 mm,
2. Pectoral fin 5A 11-12 13-14
3. Body profile . Abrupt descent from | Abrupt descent from
| the nostrils the eyes
4, Depth of body in standard |
length 33 to 32 times 34 times
of the head
6. Diameter of eye in length of |
the head 0
7, The bands on the body
5. Width of the head to depth
..| Width of the head
is
more than half of its
own depth
. | 4 to 43 times
The bands do _ not
surround the body.
ESE See Ro AE eT ES
Width of the head is
just half of its own
depth
3 times
The bands completely
surrotind the body.
The main point of difference between Botia striata (Rao) and Bolia
striata (kolhapurensis) found at Kolhapur is in the size.
collection of about 6750 specimens of B.
different times of the year,
is 57 mm.
go- mm.
Aplocheilus lineatus (Cuv.
D. 8-9; P.
is 8 ANG
the maximum size
17-19; L.
From the
slriata (kolhapurensis) at
of the fish recorded
whereas Botia striata (Rao) is said to grow more than
In view of this sharp difference, we are inclined to regard
this as a new variety of Botia striata.
& Val.)
It Bale HOS ILy (HesOp
The specimens of Aplocheilus lineatus at Kolhapur are more slender
than those described by Day.
Even in fresh specimens the proportion
of height to the total length was 1:6 while Day has stated it to be
FISHES OF KOLHAPUR 679)
I:5—5it. Slight variation is also found in the number of anal rays
and scales in the lateral line. Presence of a distinct black spot at the
base in the middle of the dorsal fin as found in the specimens collected
at Kolhapur has not been mentioned by Day in his description of
A. lineatus.
Day states that fishes belonging to the genus Aplocheilus are
mostly found in the neighbourhood of the sea or tidal river. It is,
therefore, interesting to find the aforesaid specimen in the river
Bhogavati near Radhanagari at an altitude of about 2,250 ft. above
sea level. Similar observations on the occurrence of A. lineatus at
high altitudes were made in Madras State (Chacko & Ganapati 1949).
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
We are deeply indebted to Dr. C. V. Kulkarni, Director of Fisheries,
Bombay, for his constant technical guidance in the preparation of this
1) 5 t
paper.
REFERENCES
Day, F. (1878): Fish. India.
Campbell, J. M. (1886): Gazetteer of the Bombay Presidency Vol. XXIV,
Kolhapur. —
Patil, P. C. (1950): Regional survey of economic resources, India, Kolhapur.
Kulkarni, C. V. (1951): Some significant records of fish from Kolhapur, Northern
section of Western Ghats. Curr. Sci., 20: 334-335.
Chacko, P. I. and Ganapati, S. V. (1949): Some observations on Aplocheilus
lineatus (Cuv. & Vai.) in Madras Province, JBNHS, 48: 604-605.
Hora, S. L., and Misra, K. S. (1938): Fish of Deolali. JBNHS, 40: 20-38.
Hora, S. L. (1941): Homalopterid fish in Peninsular India. Rec. Ind. Mus.,
XLII.
OBITUARY
Major S. F. Hopwoop, m.c.
(late Indian Forest Service)
Stephen Francis Hopwood, who died in February 1956 at his home
in Louth, Lincolnshire, at the age of 75, was for many years a member
of our Society, and very well-known among naturalists, sportsmen
and forest officers in Burma. He joined the Indian Forest Service
in 1903 and became Chief Conservator of Burma from 1930 to 1935.
Remarkably well read and acutely observant, with keen sense of
humour, it seems a thousand pities to those of us who knew him
that ‘Hoppy’ never wrote a book about his experiences, for few would
be better worth reading. He fought with gallantry in France as a
gunner-officer in the rst Division in the Kaiser’s War, and did good
work as an intelligence officer on the Salween and later at G.H.Q.
India in Hitler’s War. When well over 60, he volunteered to re-enter
Burma with the ‘Chindits’, after a most gruelling march out of the
country in 1942, which took him 25 days and in which he lost every-
thing he possessed.
Though not a scientific naturalist, Stephen Hopwood was passiona-
tely fond of big game shooting and mahseer fishing, and made many
original observations on the fauna of Burma, too few of which got
into print. He wrote a careful paper on the abundance of tigers in
Burma in the Empire Forestry Journal, and shot a remarkable number
himself in the Chindwin and elsewhere. He accompanied Arthur
Vernay’s first Burmese expedition from Moulmein across the Taok
plateau in 1923, and with him sponsored and led the Vernay-Hopwood
expedition in 1935 from Nanyascik across to the falls of the Chindwin,
a trip on which R. C. Morris and Charles McCann made many
notable discoveries. Hopwood probably kaew more of the Burmese
forests from the Hukawng to Tenasserim than any previous Con-
servator and, after retirement, became an expert on the tung oil plant
in the Shan State.
All who ever travelled with him will mourn the death of a delight-
ful and talented companion, who was interested in wild life of every
kind.
J. K. STANFORD
REVIEWS
tr. BOTANICAL COLLECTOR’S. MANUAL. By H. Santapau,
S.J., F.N.I. Pp. v+62 (63” x 42”). 13 text-figures. Ministry of Natural
Resources and Scientific Research, Government of India, New Deihi,
1955. Price not indicated. (Re. 1-2-0).
This useful publication by the well-known botanist, Rev. Fr. H.
Santapau, S.J., aims at standardising the various methods employed
in the eollection and preservation of specimens of flowering plants
so that every Indian botanist would follow a more uniform system
and facilitate comparison of results.
The first chapter deals with the instruments needed for field and
herbarium work and is suitably illustrated.
The second describes the methods of collecting specimens and their
immediate preservation in the field. What should be collected, how
much should be collected, and the necessity and importance of main-
taining field-books for recording ecological and other interesting notes
of specimens, as also the use. of labels indicating accurate data in
each case, are lucidly discussed.
The processing of plants for the herbarium, the mounting of
herbarium specimens, and their preservation and handling form the
subject matter of the three succeeding chapters. . Profuse illustrations,
significantly instructive to herbarium-keepers, highlight these chapters.
A list of reference books to be always kept handy in the herbarium
is also furnished.
The print is bold and clear, though the get-up of the booklet could
have been made a little more attractive.
The Ministry of Natural Resources and Scientific Resende: deserves
to be congratulated on having secured the good offices of such an ex-
perienced botanist in bringing out this compact vade-mecum. All
botanical collectors and students of botany of the upper University
classes will welcome the appearance of this handy guide.
MIG
ZS OM EEE XING? BEE PHANTS, THEIR REEATEVES AND
FAW OP EINVEING: SPECIES. By Pe Ee. Pa Deraniyacala.. ep. 161
(11” x 84”). 48 black-and-white plates. Ceylon National Museums
Publication, August 1955. Price ?
This interesting volume by P. E. P. Deraniyagala, Director of
National Museums, Ceylon, is the result of study extending over a
quarter of a century. It encompasses not only a morphological and
systematic account of the extinct elephants of Africa and SE. Asia,
but also of the habits, food, diseases of the living forms. Tt is in
short a comprehensive study of the Proboscidean fauna of these
regions, dealing with as many as 43 species and subspecies. ‘The
author’s own contribution to Proboscidean systematics is one order,
682 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HITST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
two subfamilies, and one genus besides a number of species and sub-
species.
The author deals briefly with the evolution and classification of
Proboscidea and stresses the need for further subdivision into sub-
genera and even subfamilies on the basis of calva. It is, however,
doubtful if all authorities will agree with the basis of his classification.
Nevertheless, his point of view is of fundamental interest.
In the last part of the book the author has included three appendices.
Of particular interest here is the ancient Indian treatise the Gaja
Sastra, in which the elephants are classified and other useful details
regarding their diseases and medicines required for their cure, etc.
are given. The author is to be congratulated on his effort in
producing such a valuable and useful publication.
M. R. SAHNI
3. TREE TOPS. By Jim Corbett. With an introduction by Lord
Hailey. Illustrated by Raymond Sheppard. Pp. xxii+3o (7S texEGia\
Oxford University Press, London 1955. 6 sh.
‘In the course of a long lifetime, I have seen some courageous
acts, but few to compare with what I witnessed on that fifth day of
February.’ In these terms Jim Corbett describes the arrival of Princess
Elizabeth at Tree Tops, the hut on the Ficus tree in which she spent
a few carefree hours watching life in the African jungle and from
which next morning she descended as Queen of England. Faced
with a herd of elephants at the salt lick, she unhesitatingly advanced
to the foot of the ladder, within 10 yards of the elephants, and,
making over her handbag and camera to the author, calmly mounted
the steps to Tree Tops. In the few hours that followed the African
jungle did its best to entertain the royal visitor, and lovers of nature
will be glad to share the thrills that she experienced. The author
tells the tale with the skill which his previous books have taught us
to expect, and we lay down the book with regret that it is not longer.
The interest is not merely incidental, for the author tells us some-
thing of the family life of the African elephant, and gives us glimpses
into the minds of wild animals and their social relationships with each
other. An elephant blew dust at some doves for fun and ‘flicked its
trunk up and down as if laughing and flapped its ears with delight’,
and a young doe bushbuck provided a game for a baby baboon and
seemed to enjoy it. Two rhinos, evidently old enemies, manoeuvred
for position and abandoned the combat, while two waterbucks enacted
the last stage of their contest and the dead loser was carried off by
some beast of prey even as the royal party watched.
The book was written shortly before the death of Jim Corbett
in his eightieth year.
The introduction giving an all too-short sketch of the modest author
is very welcome. So are the well-executed marginal drawings which
illustrate the text.
D.E.R.
REVIEWS | 683
4. ACTA XI CONGRESSUS INTERNATIONALIS ORNITHO-
LOGICI. (Proceedings of the XIth International Ornithological
Congress). Edited by Adolf Portmann & Ernst Sutter. Pp. 680 (ca.
93° x 62”). 12 photographic plates, numerous text-figures and diagrams.
Basel-Stuttgart (Birkhauser Verlag), 1955. Price 36.40 Swiss francs.
The XIth International Ornithological Congress was held at Basel,
Switzerland, from 29 May to 5 June 1954 with Sir A. Landsborough
Thomson as President and Prof. Dr. Adolf Portmann as Generai
Secretary. Over 600 persons from some 4o countries participated,
including official and semi-official delegations from 32, and most of
the leading ornithologists of our time. This volume which is the
official record of the session, in addition to giving an account of its
activities, and of the excursions preceding and following the formal
sittings, contains the complete text of all the papers read or presented
at it, and is in effect an authoritative review of the advances and
trends in modern ornithological science. The papers received by
special invitation from persons distinguished in their particular spheres
of work are of exceptional interest and value.
The contents are divided into the following sections: I. General
Lectures (7 papers), II. Symposium on Visible Migration (8 papers),
III. Hearing and Analysis of Voice (3 papers), IV. The Biology
of Penguins of the Antarctic (5 papers), V. Morphology and Palaeon-
tology (8 papers), VI. Systematics and Speciation (14 papers), VII.
Zoogeography and Faunistics (8 papers), VIII. Ecology and Popula-
tion (26 papers), IX. Life History and Behaviour (24 papers), X.
Migration (12 papers), XI. Folklore (1 paper). ;
The presidential address on ‘The Place of Ornithology in Biological
Science’ is a masterly survey and is, in effect, an index of the
general contents of the volume. This is followed in the Section of
General Lectures by Dr. A. I. Ivanov’s informative account of
‘Ornithology in the U.S.S.R. in the post-war period’. Sections IV
and IX contain some superb photographs, superbly reproduced, of
penguins and woodpeckers, the latter feeding young within their nest-
holes, obtained by ingenious techniques employing infra-red rays.
The volume, which is handsomely printed, thus covers all the most
important aspects of, and developments in, modern ornithology parti-
cularly during the 4-year period since the 1950 Congress in Sweden.
As must be expected from such a large and heterogeneous collec-
tion, the papers are rather variable in quality. In general, however,
the papers and particularly, the major contributions are truly
admirable, and they serve to indicate the very high standard of
ingenuity, technique and scientific precision attained by present-day
ornithological investigators. Moreover, the abundance of the papers
offered in the sections on Ecology and Population Dynamics, and
Life History and Behaviour are a refreshing pointer to where the accent
lies in modern bird study.
I understand that copies of the Proceedings of the Uppsala
Congress as well as those of its predecessor at Rouen, 1938, are still
available, the former from Almquist & Wicksell, Booksellers, Uppsala (35
Swedish crowns), and the latter from the Museum d’Histoire Naturelle,
Rue Beauvoisine, Rouen (1200 Fr, fres.); also the special number
684 § JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL -HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
of L’Oiseau 1938 (300 Fr. fres.). The three volumes of ‘Proceedings’
between them provide an authentic and comprehensive review of the
progress and trends in scientific bird study during the last two decades.
They are indispensable as reference works in any ornithological
library.
S)oA\o
5. A COLOURED ATLAS OF SOME.VERTEBRATES FROM
CEYLON, Vor. III. Serpentoid Reptilia By P. E. P. Deraniyagala.
Pp. xii+49+6+121. Coloured plates 14+half-tone plates 7 with
23 illustrations + 37 text-figures. The Ceylon Government Press,
1955. |
This is volume III of ‘A Coloured Atlas of Some Vertebrates from
Ceylon’ dealing exclusively with the snakes of the Island and con-
cluding the work on Reptilia—crocodiles, testudines and lizards have
already been dealt with in Vol. II of this series (Tetrapod Reptilia)
a review of which appeared in JBNHS, 52: go4. In all 83 species
of snakes as against 60 listed in ‘Snakes of Ceylon’ by F. Wall (1921)
are described in this volume of which 12 are marine. Most of the
species are well-illustrated and Dr. Deraniyagala’s talent as an artist
is in evidence right through.
The text is accurate and follows the latest classification, synonymy
and nomenclature, definitions and limits of Orders, Suborders,
Families, Subfamilies and Genera having been revised in the light
of new knowledge.
Simple keys are furnished to facilitate easy identification. The
text-figures of several species are grouped together to enable easy
comparison.
A systematic index preceding the text and 4 different indexes to
scientific names, English names, Sinhala names and Tamil names,
together with a bibliography at the end, make this an ideal reference
work.
Sinhala Serpent Lore extracted from ‘The Sarapaduteya Nohoth
Sarapothpaththiya’—an ancient Palm Leaf manuscript—is the subject
matter for Appendix I, while ‘Snake Bites and their Treatment’ is the
subject of Appendix II wherein a very useful account is given in
simple and non-technical language. Appendix III is devoted to the
services rendered by Dr. John Davy (1790-1868) to the Island in his
‘An Account of the Interior of Ceylon and its Inhabitants, with Travels
in that Island’ (1821), in which chapter 4 is exclusively on snakes
of the Island.
The coloured illustrations appear to deviate slightly from the
natural colours of the species depicted. The print is clear and the
get-up satisfactory. Dr. Deraniyagala is to be congratulated on his
having produced this excellent series, and every library should make
room for the addition of these volumes. No _ herpetologist should
miss this one.
Other volumes in this series are awaited with interest.
V.K.C.
RIV IID TVS 685
6. TRAVELS AND TRADITIONS OF WATERFOWL. By:
H. Albert Hochbaum. Pp. jor (10”x7”). With numerous line
drawings, maps and figures in the text. Minneapolis (The University
of Minnesota Press), 1955. Price $5.
The mysteries connected with the migrations of birds continue to
be attacked on all fronts and from all angles. Many of them have
yielded before the determined onslaught of cleverly devised and co-
ordinated techniques. Others have been battered so heavily that
chinks are already beginning to let the light through: yet others
remain invulnerable and unrelenting, but there is no doubt that the
perseverance and ingenuity of investigators, and the application of
new strategies will ultimately bring capitulation up to the point which
is humanly attainable—for clearly there is a limit.
On the many fronts that have been assailed, it has been left to
Dr. Hochbaum to emphasize the importance of Tradition as a factor
in enabling migratory birds to orientate themselves correctly on their
journeys between their breeding grounds and their wintering ranges.
As Director of the celebrated Delta Waterfowl Research Station on
Lake Manitoba (Canada), the author has been able to pursue his observa-
tions and study of the problem over a long period of years. The concept
is, in principle, an extension of what should be common knowledge to
all observant sportsmen, that duck will flight from one corner of theit
feeding grounds to another over a certain set route year after year,
which is not necessarily the shortest or most direct approach. Shoot-
ing butts positioned after a careful study of the pattern of local travel
by the birds continue to be productive year hfiter year, despite the
fact that the configuration of the marsh may have altered considerably
in the interval, so that the route followed no longer provides. the
advantage to the birds it may originally have done.
The general burden of the book is that, while the act of migration
may be inherent, the geographical world in which it takes place js
learned by experience. In other words the route of migration, once
established by successful pioneers, is handed down through tradition
—young birds travelling in company with experienced adults on their
first autumnal migration and returning with them to their natal breed-
ing grounds in spring passing down the knowledge of routes and
landmarks from generation to generation.
Dr. Hochbaum is cautious to mention that ‘throughout the book
waterfowl refers to N. American ducks, geese and swans of the family
Anatidae’, but it seems reasonable enough to suppose that this tradi-
tion concept applies in varying degree to other parts of the world and
to other groups of birds as well.
Subjects such as The Function of Memory, The Aerial Environment,
Awareness of Time and Space, Influence of Bad Weather, Overseas
Migration, Awareness of Direction, and others, are discussed in a
lucid and fascinating manner, fully confirming the reputation as a
waterfowl researcher and writer which the author established for
himself by his classical study ‘The Canvasback on a Prairie Marsh’
a few years previously (1944).
It has been found that a female duck is faithful to her breeding
place as long as that area remains favourable for nesting. The drake
686. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
on the other hand is liable to pair up in his winter quarters with a
female from an entirely different breeding populatioa and to be carried
away elsewhere in her company on the spring migration. Thus, in
ducks which take new mates each year, the destination of the drake
depends upon the traditional experience of the female.
Just as old traditions may be broken by the disappearance of ex-
perienced individuals who form the vital link in their continuity, so
can fresh ones be built up by successful pioneers. Where artificial
transplanting and establishment of such pioneers can be achieved,
it is possible, for instance, to rehabilitate species and populations in
areas whence they have disappeared through direct human persecution.
Recent studies in bird behaviour, especially of the Anatidae, have
shown that the phenomenon of ‘imprinting’ plays a vital role in this
group. Ducklings and goslings, hatched in an incubator and hand-
reared, get so firmly ‘imprinted’ with their environment and keeper
that they will follow the latter about and behave with him exactly
as they would with their natural parent. Utilizing this knowledge,
a technique has been developed for restoring breeding populations of
various species of ducks and geese to areas where they have become
depleted. Hand-reared young birds are released on these marshes
at 5 to 7 weeks age, before they are able to fly. The females get
the environment ‘imprinted’ on them and, being faithful to their home
grounds, they return here in spring bringing with them the mates they
have acquired in the wintering area to augment the breeding popula-
tion. This is a technique which could possibly prove of practical
usefulness in India in our proposed rehabilitation of the Whitewinged
Wood Duck in areas of Assam where the original populations have
been ‘burned out’. Unfortunately, however, we do not as yet possess
the requisite research organization or facilities to undertake such
experiments. Until a proper wild life research organization 1s
established, all our efforts in wild life preservation must either remain
largely academical, or be carried out by purely empirical hit-or-miss
methods, which are seldom the most economical or effective.
The book is a highly readable and stimulating contribution to
waterfowl migration and behaviour literature, and the author’s
excellent line illustrations in the text add greatly to its appeal.
S.A,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES
1. DISTRIBUTION OF THE LIONTAILED MONKEY,
MACACA SILENUS (LINNAEUS)
Blanford in the old Fauna (1891) gives the distribution of this
species as ‘the forests of Sahyadri range or Western Ghats from about
14 degrees North to Cape Comorin’. Pocock in the Fauna of British
India, 2nd ed.—Mammalia Vol. 1, page 69 (1939) refers to Baker’s
record |JASB, xxviii, p. 283 (not page 238)| of its occurring in the
Western Ghats as far north as Goa. His own distribution (p. 66)
reads “SW. India, the Western Ghats, principally of Travancore
and Cochin, but alleged to occur from about 14 degrees N. lat. to
Cape Comorin.’ Prater in The Book of Indian Animals gives
‘Western Ghats from Kanara southwards to Travancore and Cochin’.
Ellerman and Scott also state that the approximate distribution of
this species is ‘Peninsular India, the Western Ghats principally of
Travancore and Cochin’. |
It may therefore be worth recording that R. S. Dharmakumarsinhji,
Wild Life Preservation Officer, Bombay State, saw one in N. Kanara
on the Anshi Ghat (alt. 1,000 ft.), between Kadra and Kumbiarwada,
on 20 December 1955-ca. 15° N. lat. This locality may now be
pin-pointed for the northernmost record.
BomBay NATURAL History Society,
114, APOLLO STREET, EDITORS
Fort, Bomsay,
March 2, 1956.
2. LONGEVITY IN THE CEYLON RUDDY.MONGOOSE
HERPESTES SMITHIT ZEYLANIUS, THOMAS!
Phillips’s (1954) record of the duration of life in captivity of a
Ceylon Ruddy Mongoose (Herpestes smithii zeylanius) in view of
the reported inadaptability (compared with other mongooses) of this
species to confinement prompts me to publish the undermentioned
data. The circumstances suggest at least an equal longevity with
Phillips’s example and may exceed it.
In April 1931 I was presented with a fully adult but delightfully
tame female Ruddy Mongoose. She lived in my private collection in
Colombo until December 1944 when she was deposited in the
Zoological Gardens, Dehiwela, pending transfer to the Regent’s
Park menagerie of the Zoological Society of London, which she
eventually reached in July 1946.. She died there on 19 June 1947,
apparently not from organic disease, the only abnormal condition
found at death being slight osteomalacia.
es = ——e = eddie ——
1 Published with the permission of the Zoological Society of London.
688 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
This gives a duration in captivity of at least 16 years 2 montis
compared with Phillips’s record of 16 years 9 months as the full age
of his example at the time of his report. But Phillips’s animal was
only 3 months old when captured as against mine being fully adult
and sexually mature when first seen. Unfortunately I have no
information of the previous history of my specimen, beyond its having
been in captivity ‘for some time’. In view of the known duration
of life of the larger carnivores, the age of 16 years in any mongoose
is remarkable, but must surely approximate to the potential limit,
though the absence of obvious signs of senility at autopsy does not
support this. The osteomalacia. may be a_ senile condition, but
dietetic inadequacy during war-time seems a more likely explanation
in the absence of other senile changes.
Although at least nine other mongooses of several species were
kept in my collection from time to time, no other survived so long.
It is to be hoped that a record will be kept of the particulars and
fate of the example mentioned in Phillips’s note.
THE ZOOLOGICAL Society OF LONDON,
REGENT’S PARK, W. C. OSMAN HILL,
Lonpon, N.W. 8, M.D., F.R.S.E.
May 8, 1956. 3
REFERENCE
Phillips, W. W. A. (1954): Longevity in the Ceylon Ruddy Mongoose (IJerpestes
smithii zeylanius). JBNHS, 52: 587.
[By a strange coincidence, the above communication arrived just
when Mr. Phillips’s second note was in the final stage of printing
(Vol. 53: 468). In it he records the death of his mongoose at the
age of approximately 17 years and 11 months.—Ebs. |
3. STRANGE BEHAVIOUR OF BATS
We were collecting bats (khinopoma kinneari Wroughton,
Rhinopoma hardwicke: hardwickei Gray and Taphozous longimanus
longimanus Hardwicke) from a large cave at Barmer in November
1955 at about 11.30 a.m. with the help of butterfly nets. The animals
were transferred to small cages, which were brought outside the
cave. After a few minutes we saw about twenty R, kinneari swarm-
ing around us. They settled on a nearby rock and began squeaking
loudly towards the cages. Thereafter some of them actually clung
on..to our cages containing the bats. They were forced to fly away,
but to-our surprise five more came down from the rock and clung
to the cage, and some others to our bush-coats. The bats were
again driven away from the cages, but another set of bats soon
replaced them. Only after all the cages had been wrapped up in
cloth did their ‘attacks’ cease. |
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 689
As is well known, if a cave is entered and the bats disturbed,
amost of them will fly out, but soon return. It was the returning bats
that reacted to their captured companions in this manner.
DeEpr. OF ZOOLOGY,
MAHARAJA’S COLLEGE, JAIPUR, ISHWAR PRAKASH
JASWANT COLLEGE, JODHPUR,
March 10, 1956. ». C. SHARMA
4. RATS IN HUMAN DIETARY
We were camping in the jungies of West Khandesh Division and,
while returning one cold evening in January around sunset in a bullock
cart from the banks of the river Tapti after an unsuccessful Mugger
hunt, my companion, a forest officer, and I espied a _ cheerful
fire crackling in a nullah about 50 yards from the fire-line
along which we were travelling. Hoping to catch some poachers
redhanded with their illicit gains, my companion and I tip-toed to
the spot to find an old man and a couple of young lads sitting com-
fortably by the fire and calmly chewing the cud of thought. Near
the fire lay one large basket covered over with fresh green leaves.
They evinced no great surprise when thus we broke in on their
tranquillity. However, when asked to open up the basket, they
demurred. Our suspicions strengthening, we repeated that they
should uncover the basket promptly, whereupon the oid man did so and
what a loathsome sight greeted our unbelieving eyes! The basket
contained nothing but dead rats of varying sizes; big rats, small rats,
middling rats, even small little squeakers, all together numbering
about 50 and all recently singed over a fire without even the trouble
of having their intestines removed. There they lay, as if living in
death, with bloated stomachs and glazed eyes, their greyish white
skin shining smooth under the fire light as all the hair had been scraped
carefully away. It was enough to rob us completely of our keen
appetite for dinner.
This party, who belonged to the Kathodi Bhil tribe, averred that
rats were a frequent item of diet on their otherwise meagre menu.
However, when asked to eat one in our presence, they declined.
Then, they went on to explain to us the ‘modus operandi’ of rat-
catching. When they come across what looks like a promising’ rat-
hole, they dig deep and wide around it, widening its mouth. Then a
piece of rag soaked in a little kerosene is lighted up and put therein,
and a basket lined with green leaves is used as a cover on top. This
causes the smoke to go underground in the winding tunnels and the
rats, on getting the smoke or smelling something afire, make for
the nearest exit. But men are already posted there and on the rats
emerging finish them off with their sticks. If any agile rodent
eludes the men with sticks, then it meets its fate at the hands or
rather the canines of their pet mongrel, and we saw several such rats
which bore on their bodies the marks of canine teeth. Sometimes,
these men use the expedient of flooding out the rats, if a source of
water like a nullah or river is handy.
690 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
However, with these men also there was a point of honour.
When we suggested that they carry out their operations in adjoining
fields where rats were reportedly doing a lot of damage, they shook
their heads emphatically. Jungle rats only would be acceptable.
Field rats were not their kettle of fish.
Thinking this incident over on the way home I felt that, after all,
a meal of cooked rats is really not so revolting. The jungle rat is
comparatively a clean feeder and belongs to the same group as the
rabbit whose meat most of us will tuck away with much evident relish.
Banoo MANSION,
NANPURA, SURAT, F, D. GHEYARA
February 13, 1956.
[The species referred to is apparently the Indian Mole-Rat
(Nesokia indica), a prolific and destructive species with practically
an all-India distribution. It forms a regular item of food for many
local tribes in the countryside, who, in addition, dig up its burrews
after the harvest for the grain it is in the habit of storing away.
According to Jerdon a single burrow will sometimes yield as much
as half a seer (1 lb.) of grain, containing even whole ears of jowari
(Sorghum vulgare).—EDs. |
5. LUSKS OF INDIAN ELEPHANTS
Further to my note of 15 October 1946 (JBNHS, 46: 717/18),
on the question of size of Indian elephants and their tusks,
I send you details of two pairs of tusks which are still bigger than
the ones I reported.
In 1953 the Ruler of Talcher killed a rogue tusker elephant in
Dhenkanal, Orissa, which was 11’ in height, each tusk weighing i md.
1o seers and measuring 8’ 6” in length. A photograph of the Raja
with the tusks was published in the Amrita Bazar Patrika of
15 February 1953.
In 1952 a very large pair of tusks was tound in the Goalpara
East Division, Assam, the elephant having died a natural death or
having been shot by poachers. One tusk weighed 1 md. 9g seers.
13 chattaks and measured 9’ 2” in length and 1’ 5” in girth. The
other tusk was found cut short, probably by the persons who iad
concealed both the tusks in the jungle with the obvious intention of
stealing them. Though some cut pieces were recovered, it was not
possible to ascertain the exact measurements and weight of the
mutilated tusk. As the two tusks were obviously symmetrical it may
be taken that the cut tusk was of approximately the same length,
weight, and girth as the complete tusk. The cut tusk was re-con-
structed with a wooden piece shaped and coloured exactly like the
ivory and the pair was exhibited at the [Vth World Forestry Congress
at Dehra Dun in December 1954.
While the Ruler of Talcher’s pair is the second heaviest pair on
record, there are 3 individual tusks on record each heavier than a
single tusk of this pair. The uncut tusk of the Assam pair referred.
to here is the third longest on record. 1 give below the weights and
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES H9L
measurements of some of the biggest tusks as far as I have been able
to ascertain:
Length out- Cleats! :
No. | “<38 circumfer- Weight Locality Owner
side curve
ence
1 | 2 | 3 4 | 5 6
its 9%.2% Ne” 1md.9Srs. \| Assam, Assam Forest Mu-
et pele (?)/—Do— (?) \ 13 ch. Goalpara seum, Gauhati,
(91 Ib. \| - East,
143}. @)0),) N23
Shire —Do— (?) |
Zr Siow ES 1 md. 10Srs.)'j Orissa, Ruler of Talcher.
13’ 6” SS (92 1b.) Dhenkanal,
1 md. 10 Srs. O53;
(92 Ib.)
3. 3 WAY OZ bss Burma (King |* Record.
| 7347 174” 973 lb. \ Thebaw’s Marquis of Water-
sacred white} ford.
elephant.)
4, — — 100 lb. Assam. The late Charles
Redde.
Ss 38’ 163” 90 Ib. S. India. Sir Victor Brooke’s
Collection.
6. 8202 163” 82 lb. Assam, Assam Legislative
Goalpara Assembly,
SyaOn4 163” §2 Ib. West, Shillong.
14 chs, 1946.
7s 7? tH? AR 183” 793 1b. Coimbatore C.R. T. Congreve
il Oma 194” 824 lb. \ Jungles, S. GBNES, 29);
India, 1923, 1045),
g. S; om es Ws Sri \ Assam, Late Lord Lytton.
9. TY BY No Wie 77 \b. Maharajah of
7 4” L. 17” 71 Ib. i MAISTO Mysore.
10. 4 As” 182” Hi 3s); Assam, P, D. STRACEY,
| Goalpara TR ao.
Tiel 18$” 77 ib. | West,
1940,
iis | OO CY IQ Fe 68 Ib.
Mysore. * Record.
SY” BY Ge 44 |b, Major Goring and
C, Theobald.
2; Bo ey? 183” 65 lb. Wynaad, Whee Ele seater
South '
ove Jake 183” 62 Ib. India.
F.R.I. & COLLEGES,
Deura Don,
April 4, 1956.
12
1 md. = 82 1b.
P. D, STRACEY, wes.
&
692 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
6. RHINOCEROS IN THE KACHIN STATE
‘We are not told what people inhabited Lin-yang. Several early
works, some dating from the 4th Century, refer, more or less
fancifully, to the tribes living SW. of Yung-Ch’ang. In the
mountains astride the Frontier there were the wild and troublesome
P’u {b’uok) tribes, whose land produced rhinoceros, elephant,
tortoise shell, jade, amber, cowries, gold, silver, salt-wells, cinnamon
and cotton trees, hill-paddy and panicled millet... Burma down to
fall of Pagan, by G. H. Luce and Pe Maung Tin. journal Burma
Research Society—X XI X—1939 (page 267).
The country referred to in the preceding paragraph may be
identified with the present Kachin State which lies in the north of
Burma and comprises Myitkyina and Bhamo Diyistricts:
In September 1955 the Ministry of the Kachin State conducted
an enquiry in order to ascertain the species and number of rhinoceros
still surviving within the State.
Pu tao. Sub a dutvesi one |
The Assistant Resident reported in December 1955 as follows:
(a) A villager reported having seen fresh tracks of two smaller
rhinoceros in the Namlang stream.
(b) A large solitary rhino is also reported on the border of
Putao Sub-division and Hukawng Vailey.
The Assistant Resident cannot say whether the rhinoceros are
the great one-horned or the Asiatic two-horned_ rhinoceros.
But in view of the fact that a rhinoceros shot by a Lisu in the
Namlang Valley in 1942 was one-horned, and one previously shot
also one-horned, the rhinoceros now reported from Putao Sub-division
may be a great one-horned or Indian rhinoceros, which had wandered
into the area from Tirap Frontier Tract National Park, Assam.
Part of the boundary of this National Park is the Burma frontier.
They could not be the smaller one-horned or Javan Rhinoceros as
E.H. Peacock in ‘A Game Book for Burma’, 1930, writes {page 78):
‘It is open to question whether the Javan rhinoceros ever existed
outside of the Thaton, Salween and Mergui Forest Divisions in
Lower Burma. The only definite records of its existence come from
these three Divisions.’
For a previous note see JBNHS, Vol. 52; No. 1, April 1954,
page 87.
Kamaing Sub-Division:
The Assistant Resident, Kamaing, submitted in November 1955
a copy of a report dated October 1955 from the Kayang-Ok Hpakan
(Kayang-Ok is a petty officer in charge of a circle, which comprises
an average of six village tracts). The gist of the report is as follows:
(a) There are rhinos in Kan Taik Bum, Wantuk bum, Bum
Chyang bum, Hpala mung bum, Bumdaw bum.
(b) The minimum estimated number is about - thirty.
(c) In April 1955, Laisai Duwa came upon fresh rhino tracks
between Laisai and Haung Pa which is on the Chindwin River. The
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 693
size of the tracks was about the size of the track of an elephant
measuring 6 to 7 ft. in height.
(d) In 1952 a villager from Ohn Done village shot a rhino.
The locality where.it was shot was not known. About the same
year, the headman of Pa-ok-gyi village shot two rhinos in Bum
Chyang bum.
(e) In March 1954 a villager from Lonkhin village who went
in search of amber in the Laisai tract saw numerous fresh tracks of
rhinoceros.
The writer has previously estimated the number of rhinos in the
Laisai tracts as from 3 to 4 specimens. See /BNHS, Vol. 52, No. 1,
April 1954, page 85.
The writer therefore enquired of the Assistant Resident, Kamaing,
whether the number thirty as estimated by the Kayang-Ok was not
high. The Assistant Resident replied in February 1956 that;
(1) the estimate is reasonable.
(2) the rhinos in the area are the Asiatic two-horned rhincceros.
(3) a white rhino was shot in the area some thirty years ago.
_ (4) fresh tracks of rhino calves have not been reported, and
(5) the rhinoceros in the area are dangerous and ‘from distance,
when they see fire-smoke, they use to charge’.
The same belief is held by Karens. See an extract from Burma
by Rev. F. Mason D.D.; M.R.A.S., 1882 pp. 451-452:
‘The Southern Karens say there is a third species of rhinoceros
in the jungles, which is distinguished from both the others
by its skin being covered with small tubercles, and above all
by its eating fire. Wherever it sees fire it runs up and
devours it immediately. I once lost my way among the hills
and valleys of Palaw and Katay, and on obtaining a Karen,
who lived in that region, for a guide, he laid special charge
on every member of the party to follow him in silence, for a
fire eating rhinoceros had been recently seen, and it always
came to noises, instead of fleeing from them as most animals
do.
The habit of attacking a fire and trampling it out (the eating
part of the performance being probably an embellishment)
may have originated in the sagacity of the animal or to the
mixed operation of fear and rage combined, as a savage dog
will pursue and bite the stone thrown at it; and in time an
act wholly unconnected with the natural economy of the
animal, and developed by an accidental circumstance, may
by the operation of the laws of heredity have become con-
verted into an instinct. This idea receives some support
from the behaviour of bees. When preparing to smoke off
a swarm of bees from their comb in the jungle, especial
care is taken by the Burmans not to allow the flame to rise,
or to ‘‘crackle’’, as the bees are said to be at once roused
to fury by the sound of the flames, and to attack every one
within reach. Doubtless experience has taught them the
danger to their home which attends a crackling fire in the
wood, and they at once resort to the weapon of offence with
which they are provided. A rhinoceros is actuated by
694. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
precisely the same sentiment, and he rushes to the detested
fire and tramples it beneath his feet as he would a living
enemy.’
25, INYAMYAING Roap,
University P.O., Ur TUNS Vine
RANGOON, B.C.S, (Retd.)
UNION OF BURMA,
April 12, 1956.
[This is not conclusive, as KR. sumatrensis has usually only
one horn in evidence, the anterior one. The posterior horn is
usually a mere pimple, if that. So villagers would only notice one
horn. The real criterion is size, the heavy folds in the tuberculated
or ‘studded’ skin at the shoulder etc. The species of the rhino
alleged to inhabit the Tirap Frontier Tract National Park (valley of
the upper Dehing River) has never been determined, as only footprints
have been seen in recent years. On the other hand, as it. unicornis
has been seen in the nearer hills of the Tirap Frontier Division, two
or three days march from Margherita, and in the Naga Hills east of
Kohima, it is not impossible that it may also be found in north
Burma. Thus when a rhino was seen two or three years ago in the
Tirap Frontier Division, Mr. Gee sent up two pictures, one of a
R. unicornis and one of a R. sumatrensis. These were shown to the
man who saw the rhino, and he confirmed that it was the former.
More investigation is worthwhile.—Eps. |
7. NATURE’S ECONOMY
In a recent publication by the International Union for the Pro-
tection of Nature entitled Protect LTomorrow’s World Yoday my
interest was aroused by two paragraphs which recalled incidents from
the past. Para to, p. 12 deals with the hippopotamus as a beneficial
factor to fish and aquatic life in general in the rivers and. lakes of
Africa; and para 24, p. 26, condemns the goat as, perhaps, the
most destructive animal on earth. Some comments in relation to
these paragraphs and India might be of some interest to some of
our readers.
Para 1o reads as follows:
‘The relation between beings cannot always be seen: they are
often linked in the most unexpected way. Who, for instance, would
think of linking these hippopotami, that live part of their mysterious
existence in African waters, with fish farming? But they are valuable
auxiliaries. Especially in the case of East African Lakes that are
fed a relatively small quantity of water by their tributaries, every
plant and animal plays the role of a regulator. The excrements of
the hippopotami fertilize the water depths, favouring the formation
of phytoplankton which, for its part, nourishes the tilapais. These
indigenous fish are widely used by the large fish farming enterprises
and supplement the protein so essential to African peoples.’
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 695
The same line of interrelation between the Indian Buffalo (Bubalus
bubalis), whether wild or domesticated, and the aquatic life of some
Indian rivers and lakes could be interpreted in much the same way.
The following incident may be of interest:
The late Dr. M. Suter, a keen fisherman, and I went together
along the road between Kalyan and Murbad. Along this road, a few
miles out of Kalyan, a bridge crosses a tributary of the Ulhas River.
This point was the Doctor’s main objective. On alighting from the
car and peering over the parapet we could clearly see a fairly large
number of large carp (Dobson’s Carp ?) in the water below us, partt-.
cularly around a herd of buffaloes ‘cooling off’? on the right-hand side
of the bridge. The fish milled around the buffaloes in numbers.
The carp were few on the left-hand side of the bridge (down stream).
Dr. Suter was delighted at the prospect of a good catch. He
‘flogged’ the stream on the left of the bridge (away from the
buffaloes) using every device and lure he had, without success.
Eventually he decided that the hooks he was using were too large
for this small-mouthed species, but a change brought no_ better
results. Still determined, he decided to ply his art nearer and among
the buffaloes, but nothing seemed to attract the fish away from the
buffaloes in the river. Finally, he gave up in disgust. For a time
we watched the proceeding and then moved off in quest of further
natural history.
The reason for the fish not accepting the lures of the fisherman
was too obvious, they were feeding on the excreta of the buffaloes.
Some of the fish would follow the drifting masses of excreta down
stream for a time, but would soon return to the source of supply.
The constant ‘nosing’ of the fish around the anus of the buffaloes
seemed to stimulate excretion.
Such chains of interrelation between animals, and animais and
plants are perhaps commonplace in the animal world and the plant
world—only Man tries to be ‘self-contained’ and ‘self-sufficient’ !
Rarae24 eps 2o0) reads:
‘The Goat carries the destructive work further. He is the ‘bete
noire’, the desert maker. Nothing is safe from his insatiable appetite.
In arid and semi-arid regions where the goat is the principal factor
in the economy, it has rapidly denuded the soil of all vegetation. In
# region in Morocco, the goats shown in the illustration {photograph
of goats in a tree browsing on the foliage) have assaulted trees.
Elsewhere, whether in the Mediterranean area, New Zealand, South
America, or the Caribbeans, the misdeeds are astounding.’
There is no doubt that the goat is the most destructive of all
the herbivorous animals; no form of vegetation seems to survive the
appetite of this hardy, sure-footed, prolific little animal. Its powers
of adaptation to new terrain are astounding. Even in periods of
drought when other animals are dying of starvation, the goat seems
to flourish. It is the mainstay of many desert dwellers and provides
most of their needs. The ‘evil deeds’, whorling round in its brain are
masked by its ‘stupid’ look, accentuated by its horizontal. pupil! Its
696 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL AIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
appearance belies it. However, the point of interest lies in the fact
that in the neighbourhood of Bombay, the City Fathers and others
try to encourage the planting of trees along the roads to shelter the
wayfarer from the burning rays of the sun. Unfortunately, some of
these trees constitute excellent goat feed and the good efforts are
brought to naught by the local ‘goat keepers’, who systematically
defoliate the trees, some of the figs in particular, just at the time
when the trees are putting forth the new shoots and foliage and when
the shade is most welcome. Frequently, I remonstrated with these
.despoilers who either fled when accosted or replied that they had
bought the right to divest the trees from the municipality! At that
time I was informed that these vandals paid Rs. 3 per tree to the
municipality annually by way of a fee to carry out their depredations.
True, this system must have contributed a fair annual sum to the
coffers of the municipality, but it left the public (who contributed
by way of taxes to the planting of the trees) with malformed and
dying trunks lining the roads. Long stretches without trees—the
gaps caused by ‘goat feeders’—were not uncommon. Perhaps some
legal brain would have difficulty in answering the question, Whose
property are ‘private’ goats fed on ‘public’ property? !
The destructive powers of the goat are, perhaps, best expressed
in a belief that ‘if a goat nibbles a plant it is sure to die’. Some
virtually believe that the goat’s saliva is ‘poisonous’. The truth of
the matter is that once a goat starts on a plant he usually completes
the job thoroughly.
Incidentally, while on the subject of the denuding of trees, the
prevailing system in many parts of India and perhaps in other
countries of pollarding trees during the hot season, to obtain material
to burn in the fields before the arrival of the monsoon for the sake
of the little potash, has accounted for the deforestation in many areas. -
The period of pollarding is unfortunately at a time when most of the
trees are putting forth new growth. Further, it is also the time of
high winds which frequently blow away the ashes before the arrival
of the rains to settle them. Thus, perhaps, except for the steriliza-
tion of the soil in the fields intended as nurseries for the crops, little
advantage is gained, but irreparable damage is done to the surround-
ing forest. The cut branches and dead leaves are frequently brought
from long distances. Much of the deforested areas have been created
in this way. In time villages have had to move to keep near the
receding forest. Other serious consequences have followed in the
wake of this system. Parts of the Konkan are good examples.
Criticism is simple, but constructive proposals are more than difficult.
Perhaps, in time the advance of agricultural knowledge brought
home to the villagers, and a generous supply of cheap fertilizers
possibly subsidized by the Government, may relieve the situation
somewhat and spare the trees and forests for posterity.
Dominion Museum,
WELLINGTON, NEW ZEALAND, C, McCANN
February 3, 1956. Vertebrate Zoologist,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 697
8. NESTING OF THE YELLOWEYED BABBLER
(CHRYSOMMA SINENSIS SSP.) IN THE ‘MADURA DISTRICT,
MADRAS PRESIDENCY
Nichols in his survey of the ‘Birds of the Madura District’ refers
to the Yelloweyed Babbler as uncommon in the Madura District and
makes no mention of it breeding in the area.
A nest with a clutch of four fresh eggs was taken by me on
23-11-1931 in light scrub jungle in the Gandamanayakkanur Zamindary,
at the foot of the High Wavy Mountains, in the Madura District.
Extracts from recent articles in the Journal in which there are
references to this babbler are quoted. Only one record refers to birds
near Bombay and the breeding period is stated to extend to the end of
October. The period for South India is covered by the period June
to August.
(1) F. N. Betts ‘Birds of Coorg’, 50 {1): 20. Nest middle
of June, but not quite certain of the species.
(2) Sdlim Ali ‘Birds of Mysore’, 43 (3): 321. Records Phythian-
Adams taking two clutches of 4 eggs each on the 12th and
13th June near Gundlupet.
(3) Salim Ali and Humayun Abdulali ‘The Birds of Bombay and
Salsette’, 39 (1): 96. Nests from- July to the end of
October, during the rains.
(4) Baker and Inglis ‘Birds of South India’. Breeding season
June to August.
The record, 23-11-1931, in the Madura District, although an
isolated one until further data are collected from the eastern areas of
the Madras Presidency, would suggest that breeding takes place
during the NE. Monsoon in areas where there is very little, if any,
rainfall in the SW. Monsoon.
The breeding period recorded in ‘The Birds of South India’
would appear to require revision as records seem to indicate that
breeding coincides with the monsoons in South India.
51, ELLERTON Roap,
WANDSWORTH COMMON,
Lonpon, S.W. 18,
February 28, 1956.
(Go Isls IIDID WIAs!
9g. OCCURRENCE OF THE REDFACED MALKOHA,
PHOENICOPHAUS PYRRHOCEPHALUS (PENNANT) IN
MADURA DISTRICT, MADRAS PRESIDENCY
Nichols in his list of the ‘Birds of the Madura District’, (Volume
44, Nos. 3 and 4 and Volume 45, No. 2), does not include the
Redfaced Malkoha.
Salim Ali in ‘The Ornithology of Travancore and Cochin’, Volume
39, No. 1 of the Journal, doubts Stewart’s and Legge’s records of
the bird’s occurrence in South Travancore.
698 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
I confirm that the Redfaced Malkoha occurs in South India as
I had an opportunity of observing one for some time when it was
undisturbed and unaware of my presence. My record is dated
26-11-1931, the locality being the Varashanad forested area of the
Gandamanayakkanur Zamindary, at the foot of the High Wavy
Mountains, in the Madura District.
There is no possibility of mistaken identification as the time was
about 4.30 in the evening, I was seated on a machan and the Malkoha
flew on to a tree facing me and not more than 30 to 4o feet from
the machan.,
It remained on the tree for a sufficient period for me to observe
it closely and I made the most of the opportunity as it was the first
occasion on which I had seen a live bird of this species in its natural
habitat.
It changed its position on the tree while I watched and made its
harsh call three or four times. This cali, or note, has been correctly
described by Legge and it was its loud call which first attracted my
attention.
The crimson cheek patches were unmistakable and very prominent.
I noted its approximate size and shape, coloration, shape of heak
and length of tail in relation to the body.
This record of its occurrence, coupled with those of Stewart and
Legge, must, I think, establish the fact that this Maikoha is not
restricted to Ceylon and that it does occur in favourable localities in
the far south of the Madras Presidency and in the Cochin-Travancore
area. Z DS erent
As it is unlikely the specimen seen by me was a stray from Ceylon,
specimens should be secured by sending a collector to the area during
the months of November and December.
51, ELLERTON Roap,
WANDSWORTH COMMON, C, H. BIDDULPH
Lonpon, S.W. 18,
February 28, 1956.
10. OCCURRENCE OF THE BLACKCAPPED KINGFISHER,
HALCYON PILEATA (BODDAERT) AT COIMBATORE,
SOUTH INDIA
We have received from Mr. B. Subbiah Pillay of Coimbatore a
specimen of the Blackcapped Kingfisher (Halcyon pileata) which was
shot on 23 December 1955 on a channel near the River Noyal at
Coimbatore. This species is well known along the coasts of South
India, but the above is worth recording since there does not appear
any record of its occurrence so far inland. Coimbatore is about 75
miles from the Malabar Coast.
BomsBay Natura History Society,
114, APOLLO STREET, EDITORS
Fort, Bompay,
March 9, 1956.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 699
vite — IaKOXOPON, (WIPE STIPE) GAA SBA
On a voyage between Bombay and Aden a hoopoe was seen on
the ship at 10 o’clock on the morning of 17-2-1937, when the ship
was about 35 miles off the Arabian coast and about 7o miles from
Aden.
On two occasions it iooked as if the bird had left the ship for
the land, but after flying a short distance it returned and rested on
the ship. It eventually left the ship when it was nearing Aden.
The weather was calm and had been so for some considerable
time and there was no question of the bird having been blown out
to sea.
Questions which arise from this observation are:
(a) Could it be suggested the point where the crossing was
being made was an unusual migratory route for small birds moving
from the African continent eastwards? A route a little more to the
north would have involved less effort and risk by having a_ shorter
sea crossing’.
(b) Is there evidence that migration does in fact take place in
this URE 2
(c) Are records available of the species that move eastwards
and othe periods during which these movements occur, i.e., outward
and return migrations?
(d) To what sub-species is it suggested the hoopoe may belong
which was moving from Africa towards the east and the maximum
extent of the migration?
51, ELLERTON Roap,
WANDSWORTH COMMON, Go lal, IBUDIDIOJEIP Is!
LonpDoN, S.W. 18,
February 28, 1956.
[It is difficult to guess what this hoopoe could be doing so far
out at sea in mid February, which is surely too early for the regular
spring migration.
Although of no direct bearing on the above note or answering
any of the correspondent’s questions, reference is invited to the short
notes on ‘Land Birds on Board Ship’ on pp. 638-40 of the Ibis 1934,
where several migratory species of European land birds are reported
coming on board in mid winter in the Mediterranean during an
outward voyage from London.
There is a note in the Journal (30: 222) of a hoopoe travelling all
the way from Bombay to Gibraltar on a P. & O. Liner, a voyage
which must have involved at least 10 days !—Eps. |
12. BESRA SPARROW-HAWK (ACCIPITER VIRGATUS)
IN SAURASHTRA
(With a photo)
Trapping of birds of prey useful in falconry has been an annual
feature in Bhavnagar for well over two generations, and the ex-
perience gained in identifying a variety of hawks, their training, etc.
700 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
has been considerable. Each year new hawks are trapped, and there
is always some bird in a particular colour phase which is of unusual
interest. Last year His Highness the Maharaja of Bhavnagar sent
his men out to capture Sparrow-Hawks in the Victoria Park,
Bhavnagar, a thicket in which rare catches such as Goshawk
(Accipiter gentilis), have been made {see JBNHS, 52: 211). This
time it was a Besra Sparrow-Hawk. The bird was caught on
Photo by H. H,. Bhavnagar.
THE BESRA Q.
14 December 1955 in a net under which a live Common Myna was
tied as bait. The Besra was an immature female and measured as
follows:
Wing 185 mm.; bill 21 mm.; tail 150 mm.; tarsus 57 mm.
The main identification of the Besra is by its slim and long middle
toe and thin tarsus, as in the Sparrow-Hawk (Accipiter nisus)—very
different from that of the Shikra, and by the broad mesial stripe
on the chin as in the Shikra. In the adult phase, the Besra has the
crown darker than the Shikra’s and its breast is more uniformly
marked. A distinct supercilium, as in the Sparrow-Hawk, is present.
The general build is that of the Sparrow-Hawk, but with a compara-
tively short tail, which has distinct broad bands. The soft parts of
the Besra captured were as follows:
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 701
Eyes golden yellow; cere yellowish green; legs greenish yellow.
But for the mesial stripe, the bird closely resembled a Sparrow-Hawk.
Although I have seen the Besra in the field in Gujerat I was
never very sure of seeing one in Saurashtra. So, this is the. first
authentic record of the species in Saurashtra, though our falconers
always maintained they had seen some. In the field the Besra is
not at all easy to identify unless at close quarters, and this is the
reason why there is so little information concerning it in Western
India. The bird has been used in falconry since ages, and is well-
known. It is faster than the Shikra, and though smalier than the
Sparrow-Hawk, it is hardier, but less so than the Shikra. In
Saurashtra the Besra is undoubtedly a winter migrant. It has not
been mentioned by Salim Ali in his list of Gujerat birds.
2, KoREGAON LODGE,
IKKOREGAON PARK, R. S, DHARMAKUMARSINHYJI
Poona,
February 18, 1956.
13. EXTENSION OF THE KNOWN RANGE OF THE
COLLARED PRATINCOLE, GLAREOLA PRATINCOLA
PRATINCOLA (LINNAEUS), IN INDIA AND CEYLON
On 28 December 1955, Mr. B. Subbiah Pillay shot one of a pair
of Swallow Plovers at the Big Tank at Coimbatore, South India. As
this was immature and there was some difficulty in identification,
Mr. Pillay visited the place again on 9 January and shot the other
which was in adult plumage.
From the depth of the tail fork and the white edges to the middle
secondaries, the adult appeared to be pratincola. In the absence,-~
however, of definitely named specimens in the Bombay collection, as
also of any records of either pratincola or maldivarum from South
SHAPE AND PATTERN OF OUTER TAIL FEATHERS
Glareola maldivarum
702 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
India, I wrote to Mrs. B. P. Hall at the Bird Room, British Museum
(Natural History), and she has been good enough to draw my
attention to the shape and pattern of the tail which she considers a
wholly reliable diagnostic character as between the two species {or
races), there being no intermediate specimens. In pratincola the
outermost tail feather is over 20 mm. longer than the second, while
in maldivarum it is under 15 mm. longer.
Mrs. Hall also advised that in the British Museum there are
specimens of G,. pralincola from Sind, Ahmedabad and Ratnagiri
(immature, 22 August) and also two collected in Ceylon in February
1951 by Lt.-Col. W. W. A. Phillips at Kalametiya lagoon,. near
Ambalamtota, in the Hambantota District (sea coast) of the Southern
Province. He shot them from a fairly large flock comprising 30-40
pratincoles which were resting on an open grazing ground near the
lagoon.
In ‘Birds of Saurashtra’, Dharmakumarsinhji refers binomially
to G. pratincola. Three specimens obtained by him at Bhavnagar
are in Bombay and are maldivarum. Salim Ali in his recent ‘Birds
of Gujarat’ omits the Swallow Plovers altogether.
In JBNHS, 40: 633, I recorded Glareola maldivarum as a
straggler around Bombay. The two specimens then obtained are
both in immature plumage and show white tips to the secondaries.
The other differences are, however, in keeping with that form, and
it is possible that the white tips to the secondaries are lost in the
adult plumage.
In addition to the above records of pratincola from Ahmedabad
and maldivarum from Bhavnagar, attention may be drawn to Littledale’s
note on the Small Pratincole (G, lactea) breeding on the Mahi River,
above Wasod (JBNHS, 1: 200).
c/o Messrs Faiz & Co.,
75, ABDUL REHMAN STREET, HUMAYUN ABDULALI
BOMBAY 3,
April 12, 1956.
[The Fauna of British India—Birds, Vol. VI, p. 90 gives the
distribution of G. p. pratincola as: ‘S. Europe, C. and W. Asia to
Sind and Kutch. In winter it wanders into Africa. In India it
breeds in Sind, and straggles as far as Allahabad, the Deccan and
Ratnagiri.’—Eps. | an
14. KENTISH PLOVER (CHARADRIUS ALEXANDRINUS)
AND LITTLE RING PLOVER (CHARADRIUS
DUBIUS) NESTING IN SOUTH INDIA
Whistler in Vernay Scientific Survey of the Eastern Ghats
(JBNHS, 39: 250) identified two specimens of Kentish Plover from
the Godavari Delta as of the typical race and separated the form
resident in Ceylon as leggei on its smaller size and the absence of a
chestnut cap in its breeding plumage.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES A}
Though the typical race is known to breed in Saurashtra there
appears.to be no record of iis nesting in Peninsular India, and it
may therefore be worthwhile noting that at Cuddalore, South Arcot
District, Madras, Isaw birds with young ones on 30-7-1948 and later
in the year had another young one in my hand. Again on 13
April 1954 I found two (or three) newly hatched young ones. On
12 August I saw at least 11 young ones running together with: their
parents. It therefore seems to breed regularly in Cuddalore. On
tr April 1956, I also took a clutch of three hard set eggs in a
depression in the sand close to an Ipomoea biloba plant, which were
sent to the Natural History Museum in Bombay.
Although I looked carefully for the distinct chestnut cap which
the typical race is known to assume in the breeding season, I could
never see it, and | therefore presume that these birds are close to the
Ceylon race leg get.
On 10 July 1955 I found the Little Ring Plover (Charadrius
dubius) with two small young ones at the Gadijam River near Attur
(40 or 50 miles from Cuddalore). I think it is also breeding regularly
in this district.
~
DanisH Mission,
ULUNDURPET, A. KREBS
SoutH ARCOT,
May 24, 1956.
15. OCCURRENCE OF THE SPOTTEDBILLED PELICAN,
PELICANUS PHILIPPENSIS GMELIN, IN THE
VEDANTHANGAL HERONRY
The Vedanthangal heronry in the Chingleput District, South
India, has been in existence for over a hundred and fifty years and
has been described by Hume {Nests and Eggs of Indian Birds III:
238-239), Capt. Packard (JBNHS, 15: 138-139), Capt. Bates (Bird
Life in India 20-47) and by Whistler and Kinnear (Vernay Scientific
Survey, JBNHS 39: 447-456). None of these earlier surveyors have
recorded pelicans from this heronry. Some of my friends here who
have been visiting the heronry every year for over fifteen years and
I myself, visiting it frequently for the past five or six years, have
never seen one.
On my first visit to the heronry this year on the afternoon of
4 February 1956, along with other amateur bird watchers, we
saw no pélicans. But when I revisited it on the afternoon of
27 February, as soon as I arrived there at about 4 p.m. the watchman
of the sanctuary drew my attention to a large solitary bird swimming,
madhali kokku as he called it in Tamil, meaning ‘a large stork’. |
looked through my field-glasses. No doubt it was a heavy bird—a
pelican. It was swimming slowly alone in deep water just beneath
the nesting trees in the middle of the heronry tank. It did not
appear to be fishing. The heronry was almost desolate because most
of the day-feceders like Cormorants, Openbills, Spoonbills, White
Ibises and Darters which exist in larger numbers in this herenry
704. JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
were away on the feeding grounds elsewhere, and the few staying
back were either sunning themselves on the trees, or preening on the
islets, Or swimming and fishing in the water. ‘This solitary pelican
later flew off to a nearby tree, where there was ene more oi its tribe
along with Cormorants and Openbills, with which they seemed to be
quite at home.
I could not clearly see the spotted nature of the bill since the
birds were about a hundred yards away {rom the tank bund where
I was but the dull purple pouch, the general colour of the plumage,
etc., agree with those of the Spottedbilled Pelican, which is supposed
to be the one occurring in South India.
{ was informed by the watchman that they do occasionally visit
the heronry in small numbers, a rare visitor indeed, and never stay
long, at the most two or three days. In fact seven pelicans
arrived there that morning as he said, and some ieft earlier and I
could see only these two remaining there till the evening. Un-
fortunately I was not there till late in the evening to see whether
even these two roosted here at all. He said that they do not nest in
the heronry and I could see no indication of their permanent stay or
breeding there either.
This is the first time that pelicans are recorded on an open jheel
from anywhere in the suburbs of Madras City on the East Coast.
Pelicans being sporadic in their distribution in South India, their
occurrence in the Vedanthangal heronry is therefore interesting.
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY,
MApbRAS CHRISTIAN COLLEGE, Po SANE EVA RAY
TAMBARAM, CHINGLEPUT DISTRICT,
[For a good account of the Spottedbilled Pelican breeding in
South India see Neelakantan, /BNHS, 48: 656-666.—EDs. |
16. SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE BREEDING BEHAVIOUR
OF THE CHESTNUT BITTERN IXOBRYCHUS CINNA-
MOMEUS (GMELIN) AND THE BLACK BbITTERN
DUPETOR FLAVICOLLIS (LATHA)
In the Gayathri River in Kavasseri, Malabar, there are some
clumps of screwpine planted along the river bank to prevent erosion.
Most of these are small thickets covering a few square feet, but one
extends along the bund for 30 yards and is about 2 yards broad.
These are normally left severely alone by the local people as they are
believed to harbour an extremely poisonous variety of cobra. Some
8 to 10 pairs of Chestnut Bittern, 2 or 3 pairs of Black Bittern, and
one pair (2 in 1955) of Little Green Heron find in these screwpine
thickets ideal nesting sites every year. In 1942 and 1943 I took eygs
of both Black and Chestnut Bitterns, and in subsequent years saw
other nests of these two bitterns regularly.
The Black and Chestnut Bitterns seem to be local migrants arriving
in Kavasseri about the second week of May, soon after the first
showers. At first they are very shy and hard to flush, but early in
June they begin to sally forth as early as five o’clock in the evening,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 709
and a few days later may be seen even at noon, flying about or
standing under the bushes.
As tar as I could see, the Black Bittern was more retiring and
unobtrusive, and apparently quite voiceless. The Chestnut Bittern,
on the other hand, announces its presence by frequentty producing
a hollow booming note which is uttered from its perch within the bush
or from the ground. When on the wing it has a different note-—a
cross between a croak and a chuckle. ‘his short croak is uttered
when the bird flies about chasing others and, at times, even when it
is sitting inside a bush. It appears to serve as a warning note also.
The hollow booming is in the nature of a ‘song’, and plays an im-
portant part in an aggressive display indulged in by the males alone.
As nothing seems to have been published about this aspect of the
bird’s behaviour, I should like to adapt from my notes an account
written on 12 June 1955:
‘Time 16.30 hrs. Weather dull. All afternoon it had drizzled.
The birds were watched at distances varying from 4o feet to 60 yards,
mostly from the south-west, through iox45 field glasses. A nest
each of the Black and the Chestnut Bitterns had been discovered a
week ago, 5 June.
‘During the two hours I spent in the river today saw only male
Chestnut Bitterns. [Frequentiy these birds flew about. When one
flew out of the screwpine bush, another wouid come out at once from
another place in the clump and pursue it. Often one or twa more
would come out and join these, and then they would fly round and
return to their respective places, or alight under different bushes.
This chase was never seen to involve any sort of quarrelling; but it
looked as though they had a convention that no male bird should be
allowed to fly about alone. Often, at the beginning of the chase or
in the course of it, one or two birds would utter a series of harsh
chuckles. When two different pairs of males flew about like this,
they tended to join up and form one party. If one of the birds
alighted on the sand towards the end of the chase (which normally
Was just one round across the bed of the river, some 75 yards broad),
one or more of the others would fly low over its head as though they
wished to give it a peck. The sitting bird would immediately either
duck or thrust its neck up, and, at times, rise again to join the others.
Rarely did this chasing take more than a couple of minutes, or consist
of more than one ‘round trip’ across the river bed.
‘At times a male bird would tly down and alight on the bank at
the foot of the clump. Then with bill pointing up, neck half stretched,
it would cause the sides of its throat to swell and begin the hollow
‘“‘gok-gok-gok-gok-gok .. .’ call. ‘Another male sitting some 15
to 20 ft. away would become alert at once, and either advance towards
the other (the challenger) or, after flying part of the way, alight 10 ft.
away from him. In either case, most often, the second bird would
utter a couple of sharp chuckles, which seemed to be their way of
declaring that the challenge was accepted. Then, invariably, one of
the two would begin to advance towards the other, the birds almost
simultaneously lowering their heads meanwhile keeping the _ biil
horizontal and pointed straight at the rival. The posture of the birds
at this time should have been called the ‘‘on guard’’. position, for
706 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the bill is held exactly as the soldier’s bayonet is, and the bird which
advances is as watchful as the soldier, though it is not inclined to
‘charge’? at any time. The other bird would- either wait for its
opponent to draw near, or advance a few paces. The bird which
covered a greater distance, that is, the more aggressive one, invariably
stalked, taking advantage of all available cover. There was much
more than a hint of cunning in the way the bird walked up towards
its rival. The deliberate placing of the feet suggested the soldier’s
‘‘shost-walk’’.
‘It was noted that, most often, as the birds took up the crouching
position, the paler patch and the normally hidden ‘‘arrowhead’’ feathers
on the shoulder became evident. But there was never any hint of
plumage display—even the curious shoulder patches not appearing
to be brought into use for the purpose of intimidation. {See the
marvellous photographs: J/BNHS, Vol. 53, No. 1.)
‘Quite often something or other, an intruding buffalo or a passing
cowherd, interrupted the display and sent one or both birds flying
back into their bushes. At times, however, it went on uninterrupted.
Then the birds came very close to each other, thrust out their necks
(like mediaeval knights-errant tilting at a tournament), but never
seemed to make contact. They would then simultaneously leap a
couple of feet into the air, meet without any real impact, and fall
back, wings wide open to break their fall. |
‘Rarely did the challenging gok-gok-gok of a bird out in the open
go unnoticed. But, curiously enough, only one bird seemed to take
up the challenge at a time; never was more than one (on this or on
other days) seen advancing towards the trumpeter.
‘One of the birds watched today seemed to be in greater ‘‘heat’’
than the others. It uttered the booming challenge four or five times
at least within the two hour period, and was invariably answered by
another bird which occupied a clump some 20 feet to the east. This
desperate challenger once actually went in search of the other bird
when it uttered the gok-gok-gok . . . from its bush. It walked
rather fast, but carefully and in a crouching position, constantly
looking up, and to right and left, as it went on. But when it had
gone up to within 3 ft. of its rival, the other bird began to advance
boldly, and our eager champion, instead of meeting the foe on his
home-ground, at once flew off with the other in hot pursuit. | They
flew a half circle and alighted on a sandbank near their original stations,
but on the other side of a narrow stream of water. One of the birds
fell into the stream, and had to swim a distance of one or two ft.
to reach hard ground. On the sandbank they sat 10 to 12 ft. apart,
but both faced east instead of facing each- other. The one which
had got a ducking then flew back to its bush.’
Black Bitterns also indulge in a similar chase, but without any
apparent prelude such as the booming. Moreover, their chase invari-
ably begins when one bird leaves its bush, never after any sort of
display. On 14 June a second nest of the Black Bittern was dis-
covered. I had previously flung a few handfuls of gravel into the
bush to see if it was occupied, but nothing had stirred. It was by
an accident that I saw the sitting bird. It seemed quite confident
that no one could find it, and did not even put up its neck to ‘freeze’.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES hy)
But it leaned to one side and peered at me, very like a curious woman
peeping from behind her door. After a while it lost courage and,
instead of attempting to freeze as these birds normally do, flew oif.
As it was passing the clump where the nest discovered on the 5th was,
a Black Bittern which had been quietly brooding rose from the nest
and flew after the first one. They went round (exactly like the
Chestnut Bitterns, but more slowly, and quite silently) and alighted
on clumps away from their nests.
Though similar chases have been witnessed often, I have never
seen a Black Bittern indulging in any sort of aggressive or love dis-
play. If these and the Chestnut Bitterns have any courtship antics,
I have yet to see them.
On page 4 of JBNIIS, Vol. 53, No. 1, Mr. Loke Wan-Tho remarks
that the Chestnut Bitterns he saw ‘did not stretch out their necks...
whenever danger threatened, but instead preferred to crouch’. Those
I have observed invariably stretched out their necks whenever they
suspected danger; but, when convinced that their presence had
been discovered, they often crouched or just flew away.
Male Chestnut Bitterns never behaved aggressively towards
Black Bitterns. The nests, one of the black and the other of the
Chestnut Bittern, found on 5 June this year, were just two or
three feet apart and almost at the same height. As a rule, the
Black Bittern builds 6 to 1o ft. above the ground, and the Chestnut
Bittern at heights ranging from one to three feet. ‘The distance,
measured along the ground, oi the Black Bittern’s nest from water
is also much greater than that of the Chestnut Bittern’s. The chestnut
bird tends to build right over the stream, whereas the other places
its nest near the bund. In this instance both birds had nests about
6 ft. from the water-level and just over the edge of the stream.
The Chestnut Bittern’s nest is constructed entirely of pandanus
leaves. The Black Bittern’s is made of creeper stems and other
very slender twigs. Among the screwpines there grow also sone
thickets of henna; and the Black Bittern, more often than not, builds
its nest on the intertwined twigs of this plant.
THe LitrL—e GREEN HERON, Butorides striatus (Horstield)
As the breeding of the Little Green Heron also seems to have been
unrecorded from these parts, it may be interesting to note here that
in the second week of June 1955, there was a nest of this bird in a
screwpine bush at the place where I watched the other bitterns. The
nest was 10 to 12 ft. above the ground, well within the bush, and
very difficult to see. There were at least two chicks in it. They had
short yellowish bills, and were covered all over with pale greyish
down.
As I used to spend some time almost every evening in May and
the first two weeks of June near these screwpine clumps, and never
saw a Green Heron going anywhere near this particular bush except
on the 12th (when the nest was found only because the bird lost its
foothold while quietly slipping into the bush, and was seen flapping
its wings desperately), I was able to understand why I had _ not
succeeded in my search for the nest of the Little Green Heron for
hearly fifteen years, though, during every monsoon season, a pair
used to haunt this area.
i3
708 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 83
On 14 June, just 15 yards away from this nest, I saw a pair
of adult Green Herons sitting with a fully fledged young one. ‘The
young bird was able to fly very well, but lacked the black cap and
crest of the adults. On the closed wings it had white streaks in the
place of the adults’ green. It looked as though there were two
different pairs of Green Heron in the area this year. I had noticed
earlier in the season more than two adult birds moving about. _
GOVERNMENT VICTORIA COLLEGE, “
PALGHAT, K. K. NEELAKANTAN
February 9, 1956.
17, REDBREASTED MERGANSER (MERGUS
SERRATOR LINN.) IN SIND
It may possibly be of interest, in view of the remarks on the
distribution of the above bird in the ‘Fauna’ (vi: 474), to record
having observed one closely today at Baleji, about five miles as the
crow flies west of Manora, Karachi. It was female.
I am well acquainted with this bird having seen it on the coasts
of Britain as well as on both the east and west coasts of America.
Today it was feeding in shallow water among the reefs at Baleji, low
tide, about 3 p.m., visibility perfect. I was using 8x 30 binoculars
and had very good views of it on the water and flying as I stalked
it up and down the rocky coast.
Diagnostic features were: in flight, the white squares on the wing,
low carriage of neck and head. On the water, low carriage and erect
neck: pinkish buff head and neck paling to pure white throat and
front neck, red bill, long and thin. There was a distinct crest. Back
greyish shading into buff on the flanks near the tail.
6, GuizRt Roan,
KARACHI, N. Ay EESELE
December 26, 1955.
[According to Dr. C. B. Ticehurst, Birds of Sind (Ibis 1923,
p. 458) it would appear that though not very uncommon on the
Mekran Coast, the only authentic record of its occurrence in Sind
was one shot by Capt. Yerbury in Karachi Harbour (in 1877). Our
correspondent’s attention was drawn to the close superficial resemblance
between the female of this species and that of the less rare Goosander
(MZ. merganser), but he confirms that it was as recorded.—Eps. |
18. SOLAR ECLIPSE AND ANIMAL BEHAVIOUR
Having Come across several discussions in literature on the possible
relationships of certain aspects of animal life with solar phenomena,
particularly sun spots, I was piqued to know if solar eclipse in any
way influenced animal behaviour. So, when the opportunity presented
itself on 14 December 1955, I made a tour of the Zoological Gardens
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 709
at Trivandrum with a view to see if captive animals reacted in any
marked manner to the eclipse. As I walked about, I kept an eye
on the wild birds too for any sign of deviation from their normal
behaviour. Set forth below is a summary of my observations, classed
for the sake of convenience under a few headings of behaviour
patterns. This evidence, if anything, tends to point in the negative
direction and indicates that, contrary to popular notion, anirhals either
captive or free display little or no responsive behaviour during a solar
eclipse. It would be interesting to know how these observations
compare with those of any of the readers of your esteemed journal.
The solar eclipse of 14 December 1955 is, according to the
Trivandrum Observatory, the longest on record in the last twenty-
five years, having had a total duration of 4 hours and 21 minutes,
starting from 10.37 a.m. At 12.00 hours, there was a noticeable
pallor all around as if the whole sky was charged with rain clouds.
By 12.35 hours, the pallor had deepened so much that it was quite
dark inside the museum and lights had to be turned on. Shortly
after 12.00 hours, I felt a sudden chill seizing me and, from then
on, one could walk about in the bright sun without the shelter of an
umbrella. This corresponded with a fall of temperature, as registered
at the Observatory, from 82.6°F at 12.00 to 80.6°F at 13.00 and to
80.4°F at 14.00 hours. There was also a slight fall of atmospheric
pressure but a gain in humidity by 9%.
I am thankful to the staff of the Trivandrum Observatory for their
courtesy in letting me have their readings during the eclipse.
SUMMARY Oi (Os GIR WA GT © wes
A, CARP WRAY we AUNT A ILS
Gea im es
Sambur, Zebra, Muntjac, Nilgai, Indian Elephant, Gnu, Donkey,
Pig, Giraffe, Golden Pheasant, Toucan.
Civewiine © wd:
Sambur, Blackbuck, Fourhorned Antelope, Nilgai, Spotted Dees,
Freak Bull (with an additional eye in the middle of the forehead).
Walking abowt bmp mor aeeciimgs
Blackbuck (albino).
ReEsting Or SIlSCGpPimM se:
Pig, Kangaroo, Barbary Sheep, Gaur, Spotted Deer, Brown Bear,
Lion, Tiger, Panther Hyaena, Otter, Porcupine, Toucan, Hornbill,
Tortoise (Testudo sp.), Python.
CaAareSSim ges
Giant Tortoise.
710 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Pome en ingen:
Emu, Otter (rolling on ground: mangy).
Visi SicreuleivamnueroruEss:
Pecking at railing of paddack: Ostrich. Pacing inside cage:
Sloth Bear, Jackal. Inside water: Hippopotamus family, Crocodile.
B. FREE-~RANGING ANIMALS (BiRDs8)
CG altin er:
Indian Jungle Crow, Ceylon House Crow, Tree-pie, Southern
Magpie-robin, Black Drongo, Willow-Warbler, South Indian Black-
headed Oriole, Common Myna, Small Green Barbet, Coppersmith,
Indian Koel, Roseringed Parakeet, Bluetailed Bee-eater, Indian Spotted
Dove.
Sora nyods
Common Pariah Kite.
Hawking:
Bluetailed Bee-eater, Palm Swift.
Food-getting:
Black Drongo, Indian Whitebreasted Kingfisher.
ivevexd sisnsea:
Indian Blue Rock Pigeon.
Bathing:
Common Myna in bison’s drinking trough.
Flyihg past:
Indian Purple and Purplerumped Sunbirds, Flowerpecker and
Indian Blue Rock Pigeon.
‘GOKULAM’,
NANTENCODE, TRIVANDRUM, INo Go IPINLILAMI
February 16, 1956.
|The accounts frequently appearing in newspapers of crows and
other birds being deceived by the temporary darkening by solar eclipse
and flying to their nightly roosts at mid-day seem farfetched consider-
ing the delicate innate sense of chronometer time birds possess. And
surely even at the peak of total eclipse the darkness is no greater
than on some of the heaviest overcast monsoon days. Why, then,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 71)
does one never see or get reports of birds retiring to their sleeping
roosts on such monsoon mid-days?
However, the alleged reactions of birds to solar eclipse are certainly
worthy of a more scientific and critical investigation.—Ebs. |
19. A BLIND SNAKE FROM NEPAL
We recently received from Shri B. L. Karmacharya a Blind Snake
collected in Nepal by Shri Bandhu Pant which we were unable to
identify satisfactorily.
Its lepidosis, as compared with Typhlops jerdom Boulenger and
T. tenuicollis (Peters) was as under:
vc B
a =
5 se 2 S Eyes distinct or Nasal
, 8 Ms indistinct oe
a5 de
Ocm ~ B
wna a2
Present specimen ... 22 360 Indistinct Completely divided
jerdont 408 22 260-280 Distinct do,
tenutcollis es 22 480-520 Indistinct Incompletely divided.
In the absence of any material for comparison it was sent to the
British Museum (N.H.) whence Mr. J. C. Battersby of the Reptile
Section writes: ‘I have examined the Typhlops No. 1728S from Nepal
-and agree with you that the nasal is completely divided. Another
point against it being ftenuwicollis is that the diameter of the body is
about 38 and not 65 times in the total length. Although the number
of transverse rows of scales given by you differs from the number
given for the species in Smith’s F.B.I., I think it is an example of
jerdoni Boulenger. I have compared it with the paratypes with
which it quite well agrees, also with some specimens we have from
Darjeeling, which have about 298 scale-rows. The fact of the eye
not showing is due, I think, to this specimen being about to slough.
The number of scale-rows I imagine can be widely variable,although
(the difference of) 80 in this case is well above the given range.’
It would be interesting to examine more specimens from the same
area and determine if this increase in scale-rows is an_ individual
variation or common to the population in this area. Nepal is further
west of the recorded range which, according to Malcolm Smith’s snake
volume in the Fauna, p. 50, is Eastern Himalayas (Sikkim, Darjeeling,
Duars Dts.), Assam (Abor and Khasi Hills), Upper Burma (Lashio),
Pegu.
NATURAL History SECTION,
PRINCE OF WaLEes Museum, VV; Ko CHARI
BomBay 1,
April 16, 1956,
{
712 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
20. FURTHER EXTENSION OF RANGE OF THE FROG,
UPERODON GLOBULOSUM (GUNTHER) IN JALPAIGURI,
WEST BENGAL
wv
During the cultivation of a piece of land in the Agricultural Farm
of Jalpaiguri, northern Bengal, two frogs were exhumed from the field.
Sri Saumendra Kumar Das, Research Assistant in Entomology,
Government of West Bengal, at once recognized the frogs as rare
and interesting forms, and kindly presented them to our laboratory
in a well-preserved condition. We are greatly indebted to him tor
this gift.
The globular shape of the body, the tiny head with dark bead-
like eyes, and ‘the much shortened hind limbs with shovel-shaped
metatarsal tubercles are so characteristic that we had no difficulty in
identifying the frogs as Uperodon globulosum (Giinther) (vide Parker,
1934):
According to the previous records from Bengal (Mukerji, 1933;
Bhaduri, 1945) it is evident that U. globulosum is of rare occurrence.
In 1945 Bhaduri mentioned that the total number recorded then was
only ten, of which four had been collected from Bengal. He further
stated: ‘U. globulosum also enjoys a somewhat wide distribution,
it being found in Madras Presidency, Central Provinces aad Bengal,
although numerical records from these areas are few and far between.
All the same, it may be presumed that it is not so common as its
ally systoma in any of these areas.’ However, the present record
includes two more specimens from Bengal. The presence of U.
globulosum in Jalpaiguri in northern Bengal, particularly as it is
situated on the border-line of Assam, seems to be an interesting
feature. Its occurrence, therefore, in some parts of Assam may not
be unlikely from the point of view of distribution.
Very recently Abdulali and Daniel (1954) have discovered nearly
a dozen specimens of this species breeding in the Kanheri
Caves near Borivli, Salsette Island, Bombay, and they also noted some
interesting features of their habits. Evidently they come out of their
burrowing habitats for the purpose of breeding on the advent of
the first showers of rain in the month of June. However, its parti-
cular habitat in the area is yet to be discovered. Nevertheless, the
occurrence of U. globulosum in fair numbers in Salsette Island,
Bombay, considerably extends the range of distribution of this species.
On dissection of the two specimens, the larger one proved to be
a female bloated with well-developed ovaries containing pigmented
ova; the smaller a male possessing small testes which appeared to be
immature. The dusky skin under the throat, as noted by Bhaduri
(1945) in the lone specimen, is not evident in the specimen before
us. Abdulali and Daniel {1954}, who relied on the dark chins only
for determining the male sex, did not pay any particular attention to
other secondary sexual characters which might have been present in
the males, since the frogs were breeding at the time. They, however,
noted the breeding females to possess ‘numerous pustules’ around the
vent, which in their opinion may be considered as a secondary sexual
character,
—— |
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 713
MEASUREMENTS (IN MILLIMETRES) OF SOME OF THE BODY
PARTS OF THE TWO SPECIMENS:
os g
Tip of the snout to vent 29:0 580
Breadth of head ; EPS) 17°2
Eye (orbital diameter) 2°0 4:]
Snout 1S) 3°0
Orbital end to the tip of the snout 4:0 71
Upper eyelid 15 3°5
Inter-orbital width ... 5°0 8:2
Outer metatarsal tubercles 20 3°5
Inner metatarsal tubercles 3°5 6:5
Tibia si 11:0 20°5
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY,
UNIVERSITY OF CALCUTTA, J. L. BHADURI
35, BALLYGUNGE CIRCULAR Roap, So UR JBVANSU)
Calcutta 109.
February 28, 1956.
REFERENCES
Abdulali, H. and Daniel J.C. (1954) : Extension of range of the frog Upero~
don globulosum Gtnther. JBNAHS, 52: 637.
Bhaduri, J. L. (1945) : Notes on a rare and interesting narrow-mouthed frog,
Uperodon globulosum (Gtinther). JBNAS, 45: 251-254.
Mukerji, D. D. (1933): Some observations on the burrowing toad, Cacopus
Llobulosum Gunther. J. Proc. Asiat. Soc. Bengal, N. S., 27: 97-100, 1931.
Parker, H. W. (1934): A Monograph of the frogs of the family Microhylidae.
Brit. Mus. (Nat. Hist.), London.
[Abdulali & Daniel (1954) actually sexed 5 specimens in the
breeding season and found the dark chin in all the three males among
them. It could be that this characteristic is present only in mature
males, and possibly only in the breeding season.—EDs. |
21. THE TADPOLES OF UPERODON GLOBULOSUM (GUNTH.)
(With three text figures)
The range of distribution of Uperodon globulosum has _ recently
been extended to Bombay and reference was made to the tadpoles
collected at about the same place and time. (Abdulali & Daniel,
JBNHS, 52: 637-639). The present notes concern the tadpoles which
have not been previously described.
On 13 June 1954, after the first few monsoon showers, a few
adults of this species were found floating sluggishly in a rock cistern
—one of several—in the Kanheri Caves (ca. 1,300 ft.) near Bombay.
The cistern held only about 9” of water which then stood several
feet from the top. The water was not examined for either eggs or
tadpoles, but the large females of U. globulosum collected then were
found to have spent ovaries. The breeding season in this area, it
would therefore appear, coincides with the break of the monsoon in
lete May or early June. On 19 June, when the cisterns were over-
flowing, a large number of actively swimming tadpoles were observed
in the above, as also in an adjoining cistern. No adults were then
noticed in them. |
714 JOURNAL, BOMBAY VNAIMOTCAIE e EU SIs SOME MsVemmiolae ns
Unlike other species of Salientia breeding in the same area, the
tadpoles of U. globulosum were found exclusively in these two cisterns,
though there were several other cisterns also containing water at
various elevations on the hill.
The preference of the adults for these particular cisterns for
breeding purposes may be due to their location. These two cisterns are
flush with the ground, and thus easy of access to a species with such
an extremely limited ability for jumping. They are connected by a
small sloping channel through which overflow water runs from the
higher into the lower cistern. This slope appears to be the route by
which the frogs reach the cistern, since the other approaches are either
too steep, or from a higher level.
Since the inner walls of the cisterns are smooth, the frogs which
dive into them at the break of the monsoon when the water level
within is low, are unable to climb out after egg-laying till the cisterns ©
are brimful and they can float out with the overflow.
Two species of Rana (R. breviceps and R. tigrina) and one species
of Rhacophorus (Rh, maculatus) also breed in the same cisterns. The
tadpoles of U. globulosum could be distinguished from the others
by their smaller size and active habit of swimming freely near the
surface, while the others are more sluggish and appear to spend most
of their time ‘browsing’ on the algae on the walls of the cistern. In
colour the Uperodon tadpoles are olive-brown above, with a whitish
tail which is striped longitudinally with dark blotchy lines. The sides
and under parts are white, spotted with dark except the centre of the
tail which is pure white. In the hand the spots on the under surface
are distinctive and have not been noted in any other species of tadpoie
from around Bombay.
DESCRIPTION OF THE TADPOLE
The tadpoles are of rather small size. The head and body ovoid,
tt to 1} times as long as broad, and rounded anteriorly. The nostrils
. *¢ - ets
Ze HY, DF.
EONS Ay Base
Sin 5:
eae aS
S55 SUE te Sy
1. Tadpole of Uferodon globulosum (lateral view, x 7)
are Close to each other, equidistant between the snout and a line con-
necting the anterior edges of the eyes. The eyes are supero-lateral,
the distance between them 5% times that between the nostrils.
The mouth is almost terminal, more dorsal than ventral, not visible
from below, very small; its width is 1/5 to 1/6 that of the head at the
level of the eyes. There is no mouth armature. The narrow pig-
mented upper lip slightly overhangs the lower. The edges of ihe
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 715
upper and lower lips at and immediately in front of the commissure
extend outwards and form the narrow gape pouches. The lower lip
has a small lobe-like projection in the centre which together wiih
the lip is contractile. On the floor of the mouth is a pigmented,
somewhat narrow U-shaped ridge; between the arms of the ‘U’ is
a median groove leading backwards to the gullet.
2. Mouth of tadpole, x 40
The spiraculum is a flat transparent median tube, its opening is
broad and transverse and terminates in front of the vent which is
also median but longitudinal. It may also be noted that the spiraculum
is transparent in young individuals, but becomes slightly thicker and
pigmented in older specimens.
rn
3. Posterior region of tadpole, showing the median
tubular spiracular opening and the anal aperture
(ventral view, x 12)
The tail is narrowly pointed, 3 to 3% times as long as deep and
Iz to 12% times as long as the head and body. The caudal membranes
are moderately deep with convex crests and are almost of equal size.
In smaller specimens the body and the muscular portion of the
tail is dorsally pale olive-brown, the colour being made up of fine
716 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
dots. On the sides and under-surface these dots form irregular
splotches, the centre of the belly being least marked and appearing
whitish. The tail membranes are almost transparent. In larger
specimens, however, the general tone of the colour is somewhat darker,
the minute dots being more crowded and the spots on the sides and
under-parts showing up more prominently. The area round the nostrils
is white sharply contrasting with the dark of the head. The tail
membrane is also blotched with brown, especially the dorsal surface.
In some specimens the dark muscular portion of the tail is flanked
by a white streak on both sides, which merges into the brown towards
the distal end.
Total length: 27 mm., head and body: to mm., tail depth: 5 mm.
Localities. —Kanheri caves, near Borivli, Salsette Islands; Thana.
Salsette ; Bombay.
Remarks.—The tadpoles of U. globulosum appear to be almost
indistinguishable from those of U. systoma. (Ferguson, JBNHS, 15:
507, 1904; Parker, A Monograph of the Frogs of the family Micro-
hylidae, p. 75, 1934-)
Acknowledgement.—Thanks are due to Sri R. C. Bagchi for the
illustrations.
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY,
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, Jo Ibe 1BGUAUDAUIESI
35, BALLYGUNGE CIRCULAR Roap,
Calcutta 19.
NaTuRAL History MusEvum,
DARJEELING, Ce DANE
February 28, 1956. Curator
22. NOTES ON BUFO STOMATICUS LUTKEN IN BOMBAY
While driving round the south end of Marine Drive, Bombay City,
late at night in July 1956, H.A. heard an unfamiliar amphibian call,
and stopped to pick up a toad which proved to be Bufo stomaticus
and which had not been previously recorded from the area.
The toad which is easily distinguished from B. melanostictus by
the absence of cranial ridges, the black cornified area of the upper
lip and a less warty skin, was later found to be common in the
maidan covered with short grass, not far from the sea-wall at the
southern end of Marine Drive. The absence of any previous record
of this species from Bombay, together with the fact that it was
found on recently reclaimed land, leaves a possibility, though. unlikely,
that it is an introduction.
J.C.D. made several visits to the area and the following is mostly
from his notes. Egg strings of a pale translucent yellowish green
colour were found loosely wound round the base of grass stems in a
few inches of water. The egg strings were 1 mm. in diameter and the
eges about 3 mm. apart. It was not possible to determine the number
laid by each female as the individual strings could not be separated
from the tangled mass.
The tadpoles which have been described by Annandale and Rao
(Rec, Ind, Mus. 15: 39) hatched out on the day following collection.
Rant
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES Haled
They wriggled within the gelatinous envelope prior to making
their way out to the surface. The gills were club-like, with a small
knob-like inner gill, followed by another with three branches. The
silvery spots on the body, which are distinctive, and to which atten-
tion was drawn by Annandale and Rao, appear on the third day after
hatching, by which time the external gills are lost and the labial
teeth visible. Development is rapid and the young toad on meta-
morphosis measures less than 10 mm. The young are light brown in
colour with darker marblings centred with pale pink. These colours
are lost by the time they attain a size of 30 mm.
This species is listed as Bufo andersoni in Boulenger’s Fauna
(p. 504). Annandale (Rec. Ind. Mus. 3: 283-284, 1909) held that
this was identical with stomaticus Lutken described from an unknown
locality in 1862.
It has been recorded from Arabia and over the whole of northern
peninsular India, as also Rajshahi in Eastern Bengal, Purneah and
Lucknow. In JBNHS, 27: 126, 1920, Narayan Rao described a
new race peninsularis based on 2 specimens from Coorg. The
differences were relative and not confirmed by Boulenger. The
examination -of 23 fresh specimens (12 males and 11 females) from
Bombay ranging from 34 mm. to 59 mm. in length confirms that the
differences between stomaticus and andersoni, as also those said to
separate the southern form peninsularis, are all covered by the individual
variations exhibited in this species.
c/o Messrs Faiz. & Co.,
75, ABDUL REHMAN STREET, HUMAYUN ABDULALI
BOMBAY 3
NaturAL History Museum, lfo (G5 IDUNIN USL,
DARJEELING, WEST BENGAL. Curator
June 28, 1956.
23. ON A COLLECTION CF FISH FROM ASSAM
(With a text map)
The State of Assam lies on the north-eastern border of Bengal and forms
the north-east frontier State of India. It comprises the Valley of the
Branmaputra and the mountainous watershed which feeds the river and its
tributaries. Except on the west it is shut in by jungle-covered ranges or
jofty mountains. From east to west it is traversed by the main Brahm-
putra River, and the strips of land along each bank of the great river are
intersected by numerous minor streams. From the geographical point of
view the Assam Plateau cannot be affiliated to the Peninsula, but
geologically there would appear to be a proper connection since the pre-
vailing rocks are closely similar. ‘The study of the fish fauna of the region
shows several interesting features, suggesting that it served as the route
for the Malayan element to migrate into Peninsular India, during the
Tertiary era.?
———__—————————— SSS ee - a ee ——— eer
1 Hora, S.L., Proc. Nat, Inst, Sci. India, XV (8) : 309-310,
718 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
In November 1939 Drs. B. Prashad and S. L. Hora visited Darrang
District and Balipara respectively and made a collection of fish in rivers,
streams, ponds, borrowpits, lakes etc. of this region of Assam. The
¢)
[27
BALIPARA Y
*LQKRA
>BUMGAON
of °
: os 26
Sketch map of the region in which collection was made.
largest river in this region is the Bhareli, which rises in the Aka Hills
and enters the district just to the north of Bhalukpong. It first flows east
betweea the ranges of the hills and then turns sharply to.the south and
takes a tortuous course to the Brahmaputra, which it joins about 7 miles
east of Tezpur town. In addition to the Bhareli River there are numerous
other rivers which carry off the drainage of the hills into the Brahma-
putra. Besides these, there are a few bhils (lakes) like Kenduguti Bhil
and Soni Gaon Bhil of fairly large size. ‘These bhils are shailow pools
of no great extent which co!lect in depressions in the lower parts of the
district generally near the Brahmaputra. Almost the whole of the region
consis!s of alluvial deposits of clay and sand in varying proportions, rang-
ing from pure sand near the Brahmaputra to a clay so stiff that it is quite
unfit for cultivation, j .
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 719
In the collection under report, there are altogether 70 species and of
these four, ie., Se/zihinna phasa (Hamilton), Nemachilus savona (Hamil-
tun), Glyptothorax rebetroi (Hora) and Doryichthys deocata (Hamilton)
have been recorded from this region for the first time. In the accom-
panying table, the species are listed with their respective places of collec-
tion in Assam, and their general distribution.
I am indebted to the late Dr. S. L. Hora, Director, Zoological Survey
of India, for placing the material at my disposal and for his constant
guidance and encouragement. My thanks are also due to Shri A. G. K.
Menon, Assistant Zoologist, Zoological Survey of India, for helping me
during the investigation.
ST TE
Name of species Locality in Assam Further Distribution
Family: NoTOPTERIDAE
1. Notoplerus chitala (Hamilton) | Mangaldai (Darrang j|India to Malay Archi-
Dist.). | pelago.
2, Notopterus notopterus (Pallas) | Mangaldai. ‘India, Burma and further
\ekvaste
Family: ENGRAULIDAE
3. Setipinna phasa (Hamilton) ... Tezpur Fish Market | Orissa, Bengal, Cachar and
(Darrang Dist.). | Burma.
Family: CLUPEIDAE
4. Gadusia chapra (Hamilton) ...{Mangaldai & Tezpur Fish | Widely distributed in
Market. India ; absent south of
the Kistna.
Family: CyPRINIDAE
Sub-family: ABRAMIDINAE
5. Chela bacaila (Hamilton) ...;Tangla (Darrang Dist.) | Throughout India (except
Malabar) and Burma.
6. Chela gora (Hamilton) .-|Tangla & Tezpur Fish | Sind, throughout Northern
Market. India and Assam.
Sub-family: RASBORINAE
7. Barilius bola (Hamilton) ... | Mangaldai & Tezpur Orissa, Bengal, North
Fish Market, Tangla. West Province, Assam
and Burma,
8. Barilius bavila (Hamilton) ...|Lokra (Balipara Frontier} Delhi, North West and
Tract). Central Provinces, Ben-
gal, Orissa and Lower
Assam.
9. Barilius bendelisis (Hamilton) | Lokra Throughout India, not
recorded from coast of
Malabar.
10. Aarilins tileo (Hamilton) | Tangla. Bengal and Assam.
11. Danio (Danio) dangila | a
(Hamilton) 500 || LOUGH). Bengal, Bihar, Hima-
layas at Darjeeling, also
the hills above Akyab.
. o8
26,
. Amblypharyngodon
. Puntius tetrarupagus
. Labeo angra (Hamilton)
. Labeo bata (Hamilton)
. Labeo boga (Hamilton)
. Labeo calbasu (Hamilton)
. Labeo dero (Haniilton)
. Lobeo vohiia (Hamilton)
Name of Species
Locality in Assam
|
Further Distribution
Sub-family: RASBORINA E—(cont.)
. Esomus danricus (Hamiltcn)
. Feasbora elarga (Hamilton) ...
. Rasbora rasbora (Hamilton)
..Danio (Danio) devario
(Hamilton) ealarroslar
. Danio (Brachydanio) rerio
(Hamilton) al ezptur
Tezpur and Mangaldai.
| Mangaldai and ‘Tezpur.
| Lokra.
Sub-family: CyPRININAE
mola
(Hamilton)
. Aspidoparia morar (Hamilton)
. Puntius chagunio Hamilton ...
. Puntius chola Hamilton
. Puntius phutunio Hamilton ...
. Puntius sarané Hamilton
. Puntius sophore Hamilton
. Punt7us ticto Hamilton
Mc-
Clelland
Puntius titius Hamilton
. Catla cetla (Hawilton) :
. Cirrhina mrigala (Hamilton)
29:
Cirrhina reba (Hamilton) ...
. Labeo dyocheilus (McClelland)
» Lwbéo gonius (Hamilton)
. | Tangla,
Tezpur Fish Market and
Tanela.
Tezpur Fish Market.
Tangla and Lokra.
Lokra.
Mangaldai.
Tezpur Fish Market,
Mangaldai, Tangla and
Lokra.
Tangla and Mangaldai.
Tezpur Fish Market, Tez-
pur and Tangla.
Tangla and Mangaldai.
. | Lokra.
Tezpur Fish Market.
Mangaldai.
Tezpur Fish Market and
Mangaldai. 7
. | Tezpur Fish Market.
Tezpur Fish
Market and Lokra.
.|Tezpur Fish Market and
Lokra,
.| Mangaldai.
Tanegla and Lokra.
Lokra.
..| Mangaldai and Tangla.
..| Mangaldai.
Throughout India.
Throughout India and
Burma,
| India, Ceylon, Burma and
the Nicobars,
Bengal, Assam
Burma.
India, Assam, Burma and
Penang.
and
Throughout India’ (except
Malabar) and Burma,
A!'l over Northern India, .
Assam and Burma.
Bengal, Bihar, Assam,
NW. Provinces and
Punjab.
Throughout India and
Burma to Mergui.
Ganjam, Orissa and
throughout Bengal and
Burma,
India and Burma.
Throughout India, and
Burma as high as Manda-
lay.
Ceylon, India, Burma and
also Siam.
Orissa, Bengal, Assam,
NW. Provinces, Punjab
and Sind, also the
Deccan.
Orissa, Bengal, Assam,
NW. Provinces, Pun-
jab and Sind. Also the
Deccan.
India, Burma and Siam.
India and Burma,
Throughout India.
Assam, Bengal, Orissa
and Burma.
Orissa, Bengal
Assam.
Rivers of the Gangetic
Provinces, Madras and
Burma,
and:
| India and Burma,
| Delhi, Sind, Bengal and
Assam.
| Sind, Bengal and Assam.
India and Burma; absent
south of the Kistna.
India and Burma.
reer TO LR SRS TL TE YT OR PETE AONE CS TS ROE BT RE SS OES STN DIE TR TTR EE TR I
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 791.
2 Oe ST
Name of Species Locality in Assam Further Distribution
Family: COBITIDAE
38. Lepidocephalus gunica (Hamil-| Tezpur and Tangla. Ceylon, India and Burma.
ton
39. Nemachilus botia (Hamilton)... | Tangla and Lokra, Ceylon, India and Burma.
40. Nemachilus savona (Hamilton) | Lokra. Darjeeling Himalayas.
Family: CLARIIDAE
41. Clarias batrachus Linnaeus ...| Tezpur Fish Market. India, Burma and further
east,
Family: HETKEROPNEUSTIDAE
42, Hetéropneustes fosstlis | Mangaldai and ‘Tezpur | Ceylon, India, Purma and
(Bloch) | Fish Market. | Cochin-China.
Family: SILURIDAE
43, Callichrous macropthalmus: | 'Tezpur Fish Market. Madras, Assam and
(Blyth) | Burma,
44, Wallago attu (Bloch and Mangaldai and Tezpur} India, Burma and Ceylon.
; Schneider) : Fish Market.
Family: CHACIDAE
45, Chaca chaca (Hamilton) a0 [pacmtes Bombay, Brahmaputtra,
: Ganges and Irrawady.
Family: SCHILBEIDAE
46, Alia cola (Hamilton) ».|Mangaldai and ‘Tezpur | Throughout India.
Fish Market. ;
47. Clupisoma garua (Hamilton) |Mangaldai. Sind, all over Northern
India, Assam and
4 Burma.
48, Eutropichthys vacha (Hamil-|Mangaldai and Tezpur | Punjab, Sind, Bengal,
ton) Fish Market. _ Orissa, Burma . and
Siam.
Family: BAGRIDA®
49. Mystus (Mystus) cavasius |Mangaldai, Tangla and) Throughout India and
(Hamilton) Tezpur Fish Market, | Burma,
50. Wystus (Osteobagrus) seen-| Tezpur Fish Market. |Punjab, U. P., Delhi,
ghala (Sykes) - | Bengal and Burma.
51. Mystus (Mystus) vittatus Tezpur Fish Market. | Throughout India, Burma,
(Bloch) : _ Siam and Ceylon.
Family: SISORIDAE
52. Glyptothorax rebeiroi (Hora) Tangla. Tista drainage, Darjee-
ling Himalayas, Kosi
River, Bihar and
Riband River, Vindhya
Pradesh.
53. Gagata wiridescens (Hamilton) | Tezpur Fish Market. Rivers of Bengal, Delhi,
Assam, Poona in the
‘Deccan.
722 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Name of Species Locality in Assam Further Distribution
Family: CYPRINODONTIDAE
54. Parchax panchax (Hamilton) | sient [India, Assam and
} Burma.
Family: MUGILIDAE
55. Mugil corsula (Hamilton) ... pss Fish Market. .Common in the larger
rivers of India.
Family: BELONIDAE
56. Xenentodon cancila (Hamilton) Tezpur Fish Market. [rey len India, Burma and
utther east.
Family: SYNGNATHIDAE
57. Doryichthys deoeata ropa aac fees and Bihar.
ton)
Family: CHANNIDAE
58. Channa gachua (Hamilton) ...| Tangla. F India, Burma, Ceylon
and the Andamans.
59. Channa marulius (Hamilton) | Tangla. Ceylon and India to
hina.
60. Channa punctatus (Bloch) ... | Mangaldai and Tangla. Throughout India, Burma
and Malaya.
Family: ANABANTIDAE
61. Anabas testudineus (Bloch) ... | Mangaldaiand Tangla. | Ceylon, India, Burma and
| further east. é
Family: PERCIDAE
62. Ambassis nama (Hamilton) ...
Tezpur Fish Market.
63. Ambassis ranga (Hamilton) ...
Tezpur Fish Market,
Tangla and Lokra.
India and Burma.
India, Burma and Siam.
Family: OSPHRONEMIDAE
64. Colisa chuna (Hamilton) ... | Tezpur and Tangla. | Bengal and Assam.
65. Colisa fasciatus (Bloch and|Mangaldai, Tangla and Eas and Burma.
Schneider) Tezpur.
Family: GOBIIDAE
India, Burma and further
66. Glossogobius giuris (Hamil- zp Fish Market.
O00 east.
ton)
Family: NANDIDAE
67. Ladis badis (Hamilton) ahs
68. Nandus nandus (Hamilton) ...
Lokra.
Mangaldai and Tezpur
Fish Market.
(CRE TS CR FN SRLS RP RE ESSERE RETORTED (COE ESCAPES ST ERR YO RES SN RA SECRETE IC TT
India and Burma.
India, Burma and Siam.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 723
Name of Species Locality in Assam Further Distribution
Family: MASTACEMBELIDAE
69. Mastacembelus pancalus Large rivers of India and
(Hamilton) ... | Langla. localities near sea.
70. Rhkynchobdella aculeata Common in the deltaic
(Bloch) ... | Tezpur Fish Market. regions of N. India.
|
The majority of the species are fairly well known and widely distributed
and do not call for any special remarks. Some remarks are, however,
made on the following:
Setipinna phasa (Hamilton)
1822. Clupea phasa, Hamilton, Fish. Ganges, pp. 241, 382, pl. ii,
ne, Wa
1878. Engraulis telara, Day, Fish. India, p. 627, pl. Cl viii, fig. 2.
1953. Setzbinna phasa, Misra, Rec. Ind, Mus., L, p. 384, fig. 6a.
In the collection under report Setipinna phasa is represented by a
single specimen, about 11:2 inches in total length, purchased from Tezpur
Fish Market. —
It is distributed in Orissa, Bengai, Cachar and Burma.
Nemachilus savona (Hamilton)
1822. Cobzitzs savona Hamilton, Fish. Ganges p. 357,
1935. Memachilus savona Hora, Ree. Ind. Mus., XXXVII, p. 56, pi.
iii, figs. 3 and 4.
A single specimen of VV. savona was caught in Bhareli River about 2
miles below Lokra. |
Hora gives the distribution of the species as ‘the foot of the Darjeeling
Himalayas at Sevoke and Siliguri ’.
Glyptothorax rebeiroj (Hora)
(1921. Laguvia rebeiroi, Hora, Rec. Ind. Mus., XXII, p. 741, pl. xxix,
fig. 3.
1954. Glyplothovax rebetrot Menon, Ree. Ind. Mus., LIL, p. 27.
Hora, in his paper referred to above, distinguished Laguvza from Gly-
ptothorax only in the possession of humerocubital and scapular processes,
the presence of bony tubercles on the sides of the body and in the absence
of a well marked adhesive thoracic apparatus. Menon, on examination of
the collections of Glyptothorax, proposed to merge Laguvia Hora into
the synonymy of Glyptothorax Blyth.
In Dr. Hora’s coliection there are 8 specimens of G. vedeivoi caught in
streamlets of Tangla.
The distribution of the species is as follows: ‘Tista drainage, Dar-
jeeling Himalayas, Kosi River, Nepal, Himalayas, Morel River, Santal
14
724 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 58
Parganas and Kamala River, Darbhanga District; Bihar and Rihand
River, Vindhya Pradesh.
Doryichthys deocata (Hamilton)
1822. Syngnathus deocata Hamilton, Fish. Ganges, pp. 114, 363.
1877.. Doryichthys deocata Day, Fish. India, P. 680.
The only specimenjunder report was caught in streamlets of Tangla,
Darrang Dist.
Day recorded the species from Bengal and Bihar.
ZOOLOGICAL SURVEY OF INDIA, Kk, L. SEHGAL,
CALCUTTA,
December 29, 1955.
REFERENCES
Hora, S. L. (1921): Fish and Fisheries of Manipur with some Observations on
those of the Naga Hills. ec. Znd. Mus. XXII: 165--214. ;
— — — (1924): Fish of the Siju Cave, Garo Hills, Assam. ec.-lnd. Mus.
XXVI: 27-32.
— — — (1936): Ona further Collection of Fish from the Naga Hills. ec.
Ind. Mus. XXXVI: 317-31.
— — — (1937) : On a Small Collection of Fish from the Upper Chindwin
Drainage. ec. Ind. Mus. XXXIX: 331-38.
— — — and Mukerji, D. D. (1935): Fish of the Naga Hills, Assam. Ree. /nd.
Mus. XXXVI: 381-404.
Menon, A. G. K. (1954) : Further Observations on the Fish-Fauna of the Mani-
pur State. Mec. Ind. Mus. LIL: 21-26
—— —,M.A.S. (1952) : On a Small Collection of Fish from Manipur, Assam.
Rec. Ind. Mus. Wi: 265-70.
24.° A RECORD OF THE SUN-FISH, RANZANIA TRUNCATA
(RETZIUS) NEAR BEYPORE, MALABAR COAST
(With a photo)
On 14 February 1956 one female specimen of Ranzania truncata
was captured by the local fishermen from the shallow waters near
iseypore, seven miles south of Calicut. It showed all the typical
characters of the species, such as oblong body twice as long as deep,
smooth and tessellated skin and truncate caudal. The fish measured
61 cm. in length and 30 cm. in width. The dorsal fin was 17 cm.
high and 6.5 cm. at base; and had 17 rays. Anal was 15 cm. long
and 6 cm. at base; and had 18 rays. Pectoral was 10.5 cm. high
and 3 cm. at base; and had 13 rays. Eyes were 3.5 cm. in diameter.
Skin was 1 cm. thick. Mouth-opening was terminal, oval in shape
and 3.51.5 cm. in size. Alimentary tract was a straight tube 115 cm.
in length, and contained digested mucilaginous matter. Ovary was
single-lobed, 22x 6.5 cm. in size and 220 grams in weight; and con-
tained 14 lakhs eggs. |
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES... Va rox
This is a new record of this oceanic fish in this coastal area. It
is probable that the fish had followed one of the ocean-going vessels
that frequently call at Beypore port and then drifted towards
the shore. The specimen is kept in the museum of the Marine
Biological Station, West Hill.
MARINE BIOLOGICAL STATION, |
West Hitt, Marazar, Pees CLIACK ©
February 24, 1956. M. J. MATHEW
{Occurrence of members of the family Mollidae along the coast
of India is rare. From Bombay, a specimen of Masturus lanceolatus
was recorded for the first time by Dr. Kulkarni (JBNHS, 51: 940,
1953). The present record of the Sun fish, Ranzania truncata, from
the Malabar Coast near Beypore, appears to be the second record of
its occurrence on the West Coast of India.—Ebs. |
25. OCCURRENCE OF THE COPEPOD PARASITE LERNEA
ELEGANS ON OPHICEPHALUS STRIATUS: FISH
FRY IN MYSORE
A bath of 580 Ophicephalus striatus fish fry of 1” size were
tollected on 7-6-1949 in the Palar River below the Ramasagara tank.
The fry were transferred to a nursery pond in the Markandeya Fish
Farm in Kolar district. On 11-7-1949, 100 fish fry from this batch
were collected to record their growth in length and weight. While
726 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol, 53
doing so, it was noticed that over 60% of the fish fry were infested
with external parasites in the region of the pectoral, pelvic and dorsal
fins. On dislodging these parasites, it was noticed that the parasites
had firmly fixed themselves in the flesh of the fish with the help of
an anchor-like appendage. The anchor was fleshy in colour while
the body of the parasite was dark, and near the free end there were
two bags containing eggs of the parasite. On the body of the parasite,
there were green filamentous growths which were later identified as
colonies of Vorticella. Mortality due to this parasitic infestation was
negligible. The parasites were later identified as copepod parasites
belonging to the species Lernea elegans. The infestation of the
parasite was gradually reduced by plucking out at each reading, so
much so that by the time the fish had grown to 3.5” the parasites
were completely eliminated.
Of the thousands of fish fingerlings handled by us, both in Kolar
and other-districts, this is the only record of the occurrence of copepod
parasites on fish fingerlings in Mysore State.
FISHERIES SECTION,
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY, H. D. R. IYENGAR
GOVERNMENT OF Mysore, BANGALORE, K. VENKATESH
November 18, 1955.
26. BIOLOGICAL CONTROL OF SUBMERGED AQUATIC
VEGETATION IN POND FISHERIES BY CULTURE OF
‘KATLIT [BARBUS (LISSOCHILUS) HEXAGONOLEPIS],
A HILL STREAM SPECIES OF FISH OF DARJEE-
LING DISTRICT (WEST BENGAL)
In the management of pond fisheries, one of the major problems
which stands in the way of the fish farmers of West Bengal is the
effective eradication of unwanted water weeds and their control. Up
till now, no chemical or mechanical methods are known which can be
effectively used for the purpose. Series of investigations were carried
out in the laboratory as well as in the field stations of the Directorate
with regard to the use of chemicals like sodium arsenite, copper
sulphate, nigrosine, 2-4-D etc. for the purpose, but no suitable solu-
tion to the problem could be found, in view of the fact that the effective
chemicals were either too expensive or too poisonous in character, which
restricted their use. Various forms of mechanical contrivances were
also tried but, in view of tender nature of the vegetation, no material
success could also be achieved in this respect.
The F. A. OQ. Expert, who was assigned for advising the State
Government in the matter of inland fisheries development, suggested
liberation of exotic fish like Zilapia mossambica and Puntius javanicus
in West Bengal water for the purpose. But experiments carried out in
different laboratories of India on the food and feeding habits of
Lilapia mossambica indicate that, at certain stages, it may be inimical
to the fry of Indian major carps and, as such, introduction of this
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 727
species in Indian waters cannot be encour e ce until further information
is available.
It was subsequently observed that the hill stream species of fish
‘Kath’ was purely herbivorous in character and ate up readily the
leaves of quite a good number of hill shrubs given to it. On the
basis of this observation, a consignment of about oo fingerlings of
‘Katli? was brought by air from Kalimpong (Darjeeling) in October
1953, after collecting the same from the river Ryang with the idea
of studying:
(i) how far its herbivorous character could be utilised for effecting
biological control of unwanted submerged aquatic vegetation in pond
fisheries ;
(ii) how far it could be acclimatised to withstand higher atmos-
pheric temperature in the plain;
(iii) its effect on the culture of Indian major carps; and
(iv) possibility of its breeding in confined waters in the plain.
EXPERIMENTAL
Ninety fingerlings, measuring between 2.5 to 4 inches, were
liberated in a specially constructed tank in the departmental fish farm
near Calcutta. The size of the tank was 720 sq. ft. having 5 ft.
depth. Subsequent to liberation of the fingerlings, the tank was Ake
stocked with an equal number of Rohu (Labeo rohita), Catla (Catla catla)
and Mrigal (Cirrhina mrigala), sizes varying from 2.3 to 2.7 inches.
Prior to liberation of the fingerlings, the tank was planted with aquatic
weeds like Vallisneria, Hydrilla and Ceratophyllum. Along with the
field investigations, aquarium experiments were also conducted with
the types of vegetation mentioned above. General performance of
the liberated fingerlings of different species, their growth rates and
effect on the vegetation were kept under close observation.
DISCUSSION
From the results obtained so far, it has been found that neither
any distressed condition was observed in ‘Katli’ even at an atmospheric
temperature of 1r0°F., nor was there any mortality, although at the
time of collection of fingerlings from the hill streams the temperature
was about 56°F. Moreover, although there was material difference
in the water qualities of the river Ryang and of the farm tank, as
may be seen from the undernoted analytical results, no change was
noticeable in the locomotory activities of the fish and its physiological
condition at any stage.
After a period of about 7 months, settled sewage water was
introduced into the tank in regulated doses but no adverse effect was
noticed.
Both in aquarium and field experiments it was found that ‘Katli’
fingerlings used to feed on all the three types of vegetation noted
and its herbivorous character could be effectively utilized for eradica-
728 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
tion of unwanted submerged water weeds with which the West Bengal
fish farmers are mostly concerned. Further experiments for assessing
the number of fingerlings needed under varying concentration of vegeta-
tion are in progress.
Water quality ot the Water quality of the
viver Ryang tarm tank
pH ae 6°9 8:6
Alkalinity as CaCo, ... 21 ppm. 105 ppm.
Dissolved oxygen as Soll CH 5,
Salinity as chlorine .... O99 520 ae
Dissolved phosphate as
EOF a 0-4 ,, Aad
Saline ammonia as N,. 0:48 ,, 14 ~=C;;
Dissolved nitrate as N,. Trace 0:04 -,,
Dissolved nitrite as N,. Nil 04 =,,
From the study of comparative growth rates of ‘Katli’ and the
three species of Indian major carps, it appeared that Katli had no
inimical effect on the growth rate of major carps, and as such their
mixed culture seemed to be promising. The undernoted results on
their length measurements would show that growth rate of ‘Katli’
compared favourably with that of Rohu and Mrigal. Catla, however,
appeared to have grown faster. ae
Lengthiindticated in inches.
Osserved tn. Observed
October. in April
ISS, ace SPE b Ss
‘Katli’ oe 2°5 to 4:5 Te te ri
Rohu (Labeo rohita) $65. ED OEY 7°4 to 9°5
Mrigal (Cirrhina mrigala).... 2°4 to 4°3 CHE) tt SO)
~Catla (Catla catla) . | Pa 25 to 4:7 8°6 to 13-1
The fingerlings were kept under close observation to see their
possibility of- breeding in confined water in the plains.
According to Hora-.and Nazir Ahmed (1946) as well as Langdale
Smith (1944) ‘Katli’ breeds in summer (August to September). But
in our case, although one summer. has passed since the observations
started, neither any egg-bearing sign in any of the female ‘Kathi’
could be noticed nor any spawn or fry detected in the tank. It may
be that by that time the females did not attain sufficient maturity
necessary for spawning. In a note on Langdale Smith’s observations
* This large difference is due to the fact that the farm water was sewage-fed
and therefore. of very high salinity.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 729
on the breeding habits of ‘Katli’, Hora (1944) stated: ‘It is now
clear to us that the small size of breeding males, 4” to 7” in length,
found by us in the Rambi, Ryang and Tista rivers is not due to any
adverse effect of the effluent from the Cinchona Factory at Mungpoo
but is the natural size at which the fish begins to breed.’ Hora and
Nazir Ahmed (1943) observed that males become fully mature when
they are only 91 mm. It was also observed by the authors that
whereas males of gt mm. in length had attained maturity, females
of 195. mm. in length showed that the eggs were just forming in the
ovary. According to Hora and Nazir Ahmed (1946), whereas males
mature when they are small in size, the females rarely attain maturity
under 9 inches in size.
From the observations made by the above workers, faiiure of ‘Kathi’
to breed in the farm tank up to September 1954 was perhaps due to
insufficient maturity in female specimens. However, further observa-
tions in this regard are in progress.
SUMMARY
The hill-stream species of fish ‘Katli’ [Barbus (Lissochilus)
Be tonal was found to feed on submerged aquatic weeds like
Valisneria, Hydrilla and Ceratophyllum.
2. No change was observed in the locomotory activities of the fish
and its physiological condition under the altered climatic conditions
of the plains.
3. The fish was found to have no inimical effect on the growth
rate of Indian major carps (Rohu, Catla and Mrigal) and as such
their mixed culture seemed to be promising.
4. During the period under report (October 1953 to Sestember 1954)
no symptom was observed in any of the fish indicating possibility of
its breeding in confined waters of the plains.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Our Bese chances are due to the Government of West Bengal for
providing the facilities and funds for carrying out the investigations.
TECHNOLOGICAL LABORATORY,
DIRECTORATE ‘OF FISHERIES, aes K. C. SAHA
GOVERNMENT OF WeEsT BENGAL. } ID, IP, SIBINT
REFERENCES
“Hora, S. L. & Nair, K. K. (1943): The Game Fish Bokar of the Assamese
or Katli of the Nepalese Barbus (Lissochilus) hexagonolepis McClelland, Jour.
Bengal. Nat. Hist. Soc. Xvii: 107.
_Hora, -S...L. -(1944): Jour. Bengal Nat. Hist. Soc. xix: 90.
Hora, S. L. & Nazir Ahmed (1946): Culture of Katli Barbus (Lissochilus)
hexagonolepis McClelland, in. the Darjeeling Himalayas, Fishery Development
Pamphlet No. 2, Government of Bengal.
Langdale Smith, W. K. (1944): A note on the breeding habits of ‘Kathi’
Barbus (Lissochilus) hexagonolepis McClelland ; Jour, Beng. Nat. Hist. Soc, xix: 89.
730 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
27. ON THE OCCURRENCE OF THREE SACCULINA
PARASITISING THE EDIBLE CRAB NEPTUNUS
SANG UINOLENTUS
(With a photograph)
The crab showing the three parasites attached to its abdomen.
The record of a single host crab parasitised by more than one Saccu-
lina of the same species seems to be very rare. George! recorded a case
of a female crab parasitised by two forms belonging to the genus Succu-
lina which he provisionally identified as sp. Rotundata. Further, the
usual site of attachment of Saccalina externa is given as the junction
of the thorax and abdomen.?
In a collection of 193 crabs (Weptunus sanguinolentus) caught off
the Ramnad coast on 6 February 1956, the authors noticed that 169
were parasitised by the genus Sacculina. It was observed that out of
the 169 infected ones, 73 showed the presencé of two parasites, while 5
of them had three each, attached close behind one another to the inner
face of the abdomen. Details of a few typical forms are given in the
table.
George! noticed that the place of attachment of the forms he
studied was the 3rd and 4th abdominal segments. It is evident from the
table that there is no regularity regarding the exact point of emergence
of Sacculina externa on the abdomen. It was very noteworthy that
all the parasitised forms in our collection have been females. From the
point of the number of parasites infesting a single host, this collection
1 George, M. J. (1948): Proc. Ind. Acad. Sci., B.: 207.
* Smith, G, (1906) : Fauna und Flora des Golfes Von Neapel : 123.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 731
TABLE SHOWING THE DETAILS OF THE HOST AND PARASITE
Measurements of
Breadth off Number the parasites Site of attach- | Nature of
Sex of Sel fae om ment on the ata
crab | Ol crab IN | poracites | | segment of appendage
min, P peneth in | reat abdomen of host
f 1, 12 23 |Funetion of abdo-
Female 65 3.2) |e he 1s | men and thorax| bsent
Giesurisale o20 :
( Mo) IS) 20 1-2
Do. 62 3 1 2. i 14 93 absent
hele 18 ie
(| 1. 16 22 =
Do 70° 3 l Bo sie 15 3 absent
aby ae TG
ib D> on 3
Do. 64 3 746 XK) HS) 3 absent
| Bey ey ae
Ie Mz 18 D)
Do. 68 3 Bo dt 21 93 absent
Do. 67 Berar | a6 1 absent
; 3-4
5 ako)
Do. 67 2 | - te : : Reduced
Do. 66 2 1 | . e of 2 | absent
ey 3-4 |
Do. 62 2 | ; i ce a | absent
| lily Se |
Do 60 2 : | 2-3 _ absent
i ivemaels 19 o
Do 60 BN gS? Giga on 2 absent
| 3-4 |
Hs dfs} 24 |
Do 59 2 | DO) 12 : absent
Se US ere
Do 57 2 1 2D Wo |. 1 | : absent
( | de ats) 22 Junction of thor-| absent
Do. 52 2 i | ‘ax and abdomen
: 2, ah i | 3-4
seems to be remarkable since more than 40 per cent of the CHS showed
the presence of more than one parasite,
732 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
A detailed study of the life history and effects of the parasite on the
host is in progress. -
Thanks are due to Prof. J. Samuel Raj for facilities given.
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY, N. BALAKRISHNAN NAYAR,
ALAGAPPA COLLEGE, KARAIKUDI, O. N. GURUMANI.
February 18, 1956.
28. EXTENSION OF RANGE OF THE FRESHWATER CRAB
PARATELPHUSA (OZIOTELPHUSA) HYDRODROMUS
(HERBST)
In November 1954, Mr. Humayun Abdulali collected some fresh-
water crabs at Mahableshwar, 4,500 ft. {Satara District, Bombay
State). One of these has been identified as Pavratelphusa (Oziotel-
phusa) hydrodromus (Herbst) at the Taraporevala Marine Biological
Station, Bombay, and confirmed at the Indian Museum, Calcutta.
The characteristics of this species are the strong convexity of the
carapace, separation of the free edge of the ‘front’ proper from the
antennular edge of the front, and by the post-orbital crests ending
well in the rear of the small lateral. epibranchial teeth.
Alcock! gives the distribution of this crab as Bengal (Ranigunj,
Barabhoom, Calcutta), Allahabad, Orissa, and various localities in
South India (Pondicherry, Ellore, Madras, Madura, Travancore and
Calicut). Chopra and Tiwari? (1947) have subsequently recorded it
from Patna (Orissa). Pillai? describes this crab ‘as a common species
all along the west coast of India and the Madras Presidency’. On
inquiry it transpires, however, that his statement is based on Alcock's
records from Pallode and Shenkottah (both places in the southern-
most part of the Western Ghats in Travancore), and the crab was
so far not recorded, although so referred to by Pillai, north of
Calicut along the west coast of India. The present record, there-
fore, constitutes a considerable extension of the known range of this
species.
TARAPOREVALA AQUARIUM,
BomBAY 2, | B. F,. CHHAPGAR
April 4, 1956.
* Alcock, A. (1910): Paratelphusa (Oziotelphusa) hydrodromus, Cat. Ind. Dec.
Crust. part I, Brachyura, pp. 97-100, pl. xiii, fig. 60.
* Chopra, B. & Tiwari, K. K. (1947): Paratelphusa (Oziotelphusa) hydrodromus,
Rec. Ind. Mus. xlv: 214.
* Pillai, N. Krishna (1951): Paratelphusa (Oziotelphusa) hydrodromus, Bull.
Central Research Institute, University of Travancore, Trivandrum II, No. 1,
Series "Cy ips hv,
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 933
29, MITES FROM THE GILLS OF THE UNIO, ANODONTA
MARGINALIS
In course of normal dissections of the common fresh water mussel,
Anodonta marginalis, presence of mites in the gills has been recorded.
The mussels were collected in the month of February 1956 from the
ponds near about Calcutta. Almost all the specimens examined were
found to be infected with the mites in varying extent. The number
of mites in the gills ranged from two to twenty-five. They were
found to occupy the spaces between the lamellae of the gills.
The mites appear to belong to the genus Tombidium. They are
pale brownish in colour and are somewhat oval in outline, and all
the walking legs are hairy. The chelicerae are simple hook-like
structures and gradually taper at the outer extremity.
Body length from tip to tip (including the mouth parts) varies
between .708 to. .712 mm. The breadth of the body between the
2nd and 3rd leg is between .531 to .540 mm. ‘The average length
of the legs is 6.49 mm.
It would be very interesting to study the pathological implications
on the gills due to the presence of these mites. Incidentally, in the
present case no visible change in the gills was apparent.
_ ENTOMOLOGY LABORATORY,
ZOOLOGY DEPARTMENT,
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF SCIENCE, BARUNDEB BANERJEF
CALCUTTA,
April 25, 1956.
REFERENCE
Shipley, A. E., Warburton, & others (1909): Cambridge Natural History Vol. 4.
30. SOME OBSERVATIONS ON THE ECOLOGY AND
BEHAVIOUR OF THE COMMON INDIAN APPLE-SNAIL
PILA GLOBOSA (SWAINSON)
(With two text-figures)
Pila globosa is studied as a type of Gastropoda in most of the
Indian Universities. It is a freshwater and amphibious snail sup-
posed to have descended from a marine ancestor which became
established in estuarine waters. Lal and Saxena (1952) have de-.
monstrated that this snail possesses uricotelic metabolism, hence its
penetration in freshwater appears to be secondary. The present.
observations were made during a period of two years near the lakes
oi Chinhat, Kathota and Marayon in the vicinity of, Lucknow. (India),
when the author had to collect the snails for studies on the blood and
excretory constituents of Pila globosa. | |
For the greater part of the year Pila globosa aestivates under
ground but appears in the water during the hot monsoon months of
July and August in Northern India, This is the most vital part of
734 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
the life of these snails. The nitrogenous excretory products accu-
mulated during aestivation are unloaded (Saxena 1955). These
snails feed and breed, as well, in this part of the year. Pila globosa
is conspicuous by its strict terrestrial oviparity and complete cleidoic
eggs. They have been observed to possess a strong instinct for laying
eggs in dry protected corners, both in nature and under experimental
conditions. According to Bahl (1928) oviposition in these snails can be
delayed by preventing impregnated females from going out of water,
but as soon as this check is removed oviposition begins. Expert!-
ments were performed to exhibit the intensity of this instinct and
learning behaviour in these snails.
ss pleiim’ ent) 21:
Two aquaria (a) and (b) of similar size, measuring 20” x 12” x 11”
were put in a glass chamber measuring 40” x 27” x 40” as shown in
figure 1. In aquarium (a) sufficient mud was placed so as to fill it
up to one quarter of its height, while in (b) enough water was poured
to fill it up to three quarters of its height. A few snails from the
laboratory aquarium were placed in (a) and (b) aquaria. In the middle
of July some snails were found pairing in aquarium (b), but oviposi-
tion could be observed in (a). It was interesting to observe that the
snails in aquarium (b) learnt to climb up the inner wall of the aquarium
and descend along the outer wall, and laid eggs in a dry corner of
the glass chamber.
Experiment 2:
In another experiment two jars each measuring 6” x6” x 14”
containing water were kept in the aquaria (a) and (b), other things
being the same as in experiment 1. In this experiment the snails
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 735
were kept in the glass jars. The snails from the jar contained in
aquarium (w) came out and laid eggs on the mud in the corner of the
aquarium, but remarkably enough the snails of the jar in aquarium
(b) not only climbed out of the jar but also from the aquarium and
laid eggs in the dry corner of the glass chamber. Not only is the
judgment of the snails that the corner was the safest place note-
worthy, but the posture of the animal during oviposition also was
such as to avoid any chance of detection of the eggs by enemies.
Figure. 2.
Fig, 2
aq., aquarium; g.ch., glass chamber ; sn., snail ; wr., water.
It is evident from these experiments that not only may there
exist a natural rhythm to initiate oviposition in a particular part of
the year, but also that these snails possess a strong instinct to lay
eggs in dry protected places. ‘These experiments on the other hand
also amply illustrate the learning ability of Pila globosa to some
extent.
Pila globosa appears to be incapable of tolerating even the summer
and winter temperatures of 35°C. and 20°C. respectively, when
accompanied by drought, hence the winter and the summer hiberna-
tions are clearly marked with a break in the rainy season. During
hibernation the snail closely fits its operculum to the sheli to make it
an air-tight box, thereby eliminating any chances of water evaporation
and for maintaining an optimum humidity inside the shell. When
a snail is dug out from its hibernating burrow even in the hottest
part of the year, the viscera of the animal appear as if quite drenched
in water.
These snails usually occur near the banks of the lakes and seldom
venture into deeper waters. However, it was sometimes possible to
736 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 58
encounter a few snails in the deeper waters during the period they
actually hibernate. It appears that they were thrown there by some
mechanical agent, rather thati went by themselves to lead a life of
semi-hibernation. With the onset of summer, the water slowly
evaporates from the ponds and the lakes leaving the banks still soft
and muddy. At this time they bore their way into the ground
by the aid of their foot which is the main organ employed for digging
and progression. In ditches where all the water dries up, the snails
burrow into the bottom mud. With the return of the rains they come
out through the softening of the mud surrounding their burrows.
It is also worth mentioning that when some hibernating snails
Were maintained in the laboratory aquarium in summer with hydrilla
twigs as food, they became active, fed and passed faeces. On ihe
other hand during winter, they only respired by projecting their
siphons above the water level in the aquarium, but neither ate nor
passed faeces. ‘These snails may be more intolerant to cold than to
heat. They are mostly herbivorous and their food consists of aquatic
plants like Hydrilla and succulent plants like Vallisneria and Pistia.
DEPARTMENT OF ZOOLOGY,
UNIVERSITY OF LUCKNOW, B. B. SAXENA
INDIA,
February 15, 1956.
REFERENCES
Bahl, K. N. (1928): On the Reproductive Processes and Development of Pila
globosa (Swainson). Rec. Ind. Mus., 9: 1.
Lal, M. B. & Saxena, B. B. (1952): Uricotelism in Pila globosa (Swainson).
Nature., 170: 95.
Saxena, B. B. (1955): Physiology of Excretion in the Common Indian Apple-
snail, Pila globosa (Swainson). Jour. Anim. Morph. Physiol., Bombay. I1 (2).
87-95—December.
31. THE HORNED HELME1, CASSIS
CORNUTA LINN.—AN ADDITION TO THE LIST OF
MARINE GASTROPODS OF BOMBAY
(With a photo)
On 21 September 1955 one Shri Santosh Kumar, a_ diver,
brought in a huge gastropod shell popularly called the Horned Helmet
or Great Helmet-Shell or Elephant-Chank—Cassis cornuta Linn.
(Cassididae) weighing 3 Ib. which, he said, had been found at a depth
of about 12 ft. in the Ballard Pier waters, Bombay.
This species has not been included in ‘The Marine Mollusca of
Bombay 1893’ by James Cosmo Melvill and Alexander Abercrombie’,
or in the additional list of 25 new species by James Cosmo Melvill?.
* Mem. & Proc. Manchester Literary & Philosophical Soc., Vol, 7, 4th series.
* Vol. 7, series 4.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 737
Neither does it appear in ‘The Marine Gastropoda. of Bombay’ by
LT. V. Subrahmanyam, K. R. Karandikar and N. N. Murthi'.
Cassis cornuta Linn. is the largest and the heaviest in the genus
Cassis and has a wide distribution ranging from Mauritius to Japan.
In Indian waters it has been recorded from a depth of 8-10 fathoms
on the Pearl Banks in the Gulf of Mannar, and also from the
Coromandel Coast, the Maidives and the Andamans. Its distribution,
according to Reeve, is ‘Moluccas, West Indies and Pacific Islands’.
It is not mentioned in Schepman’s Siboga Expedition Monograph.
There is only one specimen of this species weighing 3 Ib, 154 02.
in the collection of the Zoological Survey of India, obtained from the
Andamans. The molluscan collections of the Government museums
of Madras and Travancore do not include this species.
The present seems to be the first specimen from Bombay waters
and is therefore worth recording. It was very kind of the diver,
Santosh Kumar, to have presented this rare and interesting shell to
the Museum.
NaturaL History SEcTION,
PRINCE OF WaLes Museum or W. Inp1A, Wolk CISLAURIL,
BomBay, Offg. Curator
February 29, 1956.
[James Hornell in ‘Indian Molluscs’, p. 22 says: ‘The larger
Helmet-Shells (Cassididae) are represented in India by two species,
' Journ. Univ. of Bombay, Vol. xx, pt. 8, 1951.
738 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol, 63
the Great Helmet-Shell Cassis cornuta and the Red Helmet Cassis
rufa. The former is the largest and heaviest of Indian gastropods,
its shell weighing several pounds . .. These great shells are rare
and are usually found at a depth of eight to ten fathoms on the pearl
banks in the Gulf of Mannar, and in the same depth in the neighbour-
hood of the Laccadives.’—Eps. |
32. OCCURRENCE OF THE FAIRY SHRIMP
STREPTOCEPHALUS DICHOTOMUS (BAIRD 1860)
IN MYSORE STATE
During November 1949, while trial nettings were being conducted
in the rearing ponds in Markonahally Fish Farm, which is situated at.
an elevation of 2,600 ft. in Tumkur district, it was noticed that objects
like shrimps were caught along with the fish in a cast net. When
these were introduced in an aquarium, they began swimming upside
down with a rhythmic movement of their appendages. The fishermen
in the locality had never seen such shrimps. These were later
identified as fairy shrimps Streptocephalus dichotomus (Baird 1860).
They are being recorded for the first time from this area.
The water in the ponds was muddy and the fairy shrimps were
in abundance for over a week. They then disappeared and all attempts
to locate them up to this day have been futile.
Four years later, another instance of the appearance of the same
species of fairy shrimps was recorded in Bikasipur tank in Bangalore
district, about 10 miles from Bangalore, at an elevation of 3,200 it.
The tank is situated in a deep valley. A good number of them were
taken out in a prawn net in September 1953. The water in the tank
was muddy and contained no vegetation of higher aquatic type.
These are the only two recorded instances of the occurrence of the
Fairy Shrimp in Mysore State.
FISHERIES SECTION,
DEPARTMENT OF ANIMAL HUSBANDRY, H. D. R. IYENGAR
GOVERMENT OF Mysore, BANGALORE, _ N. BASAVAIAH
November 18, 1955.
33. NOTES ON THE LEPIDOPTERA OF ASSAM—IIL
FURTHER ADDITIONS TO THE INDIAN LIST AND
OTHER NOTES
9, Lycaenopsis ceyx cerima Corbet
Since my last note on this species (Norman, 1953) I have identified a Q
and taken another of in the same locality (Sibsagar Dist., Upper Assam).
The 9 is new to science, and I give a detailed description,
9, Upperside, forewing. Black border 1 mm. at base of costa increasing
to 4 mm. at the apex; evenly 2 mm. along the termen. ‘The rest of the
forewing is ditty white, becoming darker towards the base, and overlaid
With shining blue scales which are more obvious ina side light. ‘The
white is clearest in the basal two-thirds of spaces 2 and 3 and in the base
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 739
of space 4. Hzxdwing. Dirty white below vein 7, spaces 4, 5 and 6 being
purer white than the rest of the wing. Overlaid with blue scales as in the
forewing. Equal sub-marginal black spots at ends of veins 1-6. Uvxder-
stde. Similar to the previously published description of the #. (Norman,
1953).
Field identification. Discal spots underfore on a very even curve: Sub-
marginal spots but no lunules on the underside of both wings, giving an
appearance similar to that of a/bocoerulea Moore.
10. Amblypodia nicevillei B. Bkr.
This species flies in the Kabaw Valley in April in company with A.
stlhetensis. In view cf this, Brigadier Evans, to whom I have shown my
specimens, considers that zzcev7llez should be regarded as a good species.
11. Tros plutonius tytleri Evans
Two specimens of this species, previously only recorded eastwards
from Manipur, have been taken by my collectors in the Naga Hills.
2 Papilio machaon verityi Fruh.
My collectors recently sent a specimen of this species, caught in the
Naga Hills, to Mr. A. E. G. Best, to whom I atm much indebted for the
gift of the specimen. Itis known to be fairly plentiful on Mt. Surot in
Manipur, but this may be the first record from the Nagas.
13. Aporia harrietae De N.
A oitakenin the Nagas (near Jhakama) in October 1953 is the first
record of any habitat for this species elsewhere than in Bhutan. Com-
pared with Bhutan specimens mine is darker, and all pale areas on the
upperside are more restricted.
14, Mycalesis mnasicles perna Fruh.
This species flies commonly in the Kabaw Valley.
15, Chersonesia rahria rahrioides Moore
This species, whose distribution Evans (1932) gives as Manipur-Burma,
is common in the Sibsagar district of the Assam Valley.
16. Neptis assamica \Woore
‘This species is listed by Evans (1932) in error as a sub-species of XV.
dindinga. I have caught three specimens of this very rare species in the
Sibsagar district in February.
17. Polytremis minuta Evans 2
Scobura woolletti woolletti Riley 1
I have taken both of these species, (previously only recorded from
Manipur) in the Sibsagar district. |
18. Plastingis sala Hewitson
1 J Sibsagar district. This species appears to be fairly common in
SW. India, but hitherto it has been recorded from nowhere between
the West coast and Burma.
15
740 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
19. Amblypodia apha De N.
One § from Sibsagar district (Garmpani Reserve) in August constitu-
tes a new addition to the Indian list. Previously only recorded from
S. Burma.
20. Amblypodia alesia Felder. Several 3
A. aceta De N. Several <\('.
A. belphoebe Doherty One ¢.
Tajuria isaeus De N. One 9.
Rapala kessuma deliochus Hew. One 9.
Bibasis etelka Hew. One.
I have taken all the above species in the Kabaw Valley in April, and
they must therefore be added to the Indian list.
21. Plastingia tavoyana Evans
This species, previously only recorded from Burma, Siam and Borneo,.
flies in the Kabaw Valley. From the evidence of the one specimen I have
caught and shown him, Brigadier Evans considers that the Kabaw Valley
specimens will turn out to be at least a new sub-species,
22. Isma Distant
I have caught two identical 99 of a species belonging to this genus in
the Sibsagar district of Assam. The genus has not previously been
recorded from India. My specimens are almost certainly referable to a
new species.
Throughout these notes the Kabaw Valley refers to the country on
the Indian side of the Manipur-Burma border.
One specimen each of three species formerly unrepresented there has
been presented to the National Collection of the ZoologicalSurvey of India
in Calcutta. These are:
Lycaenopsts ceyx cerima Corbet %.
Thecla kabrua Tytler 3.
Thecla kirbariensis Tytler j.
I am much indebted to the authorities at the Zoological Survey of
India (Calcutta) and at the British Museum of Natural History (London)
for permission to study material in their charge ; and to Brigadier W. H.
Evans and Sir Keith Cantlie for much help and advice.
SELENG TEA ESTATE T. NORMAN.
SELENG Hat P.O., ASSAM
February 17, 1956.
REFERENCES
Evans, W. H. (1932): The Identification of Indian Butterflies.
Norman, ‘TT. (1953): Notes on the Lepidoptera of Assam—Il. JBNAS, 51 (2):
515-517,
—
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 74,
34. THE RELATIVE ABUNDANCE OF THE THREE
FEMALE FORMS OF PAPILIO POLYTES L. IN CALCUTTA
With reference to Mr. Sanders’ note (1955, /BNHS, 52: 805), the
note of mine, to which he refers, was published in 1944 (journ. Beng.
N.H. Soc., 19: 76) and was evidently based on insufficient material.
In 1947 (Entomologist, 80: 172) I published a short note giving
a summary of the published accounts of the relative abundance of the
three forms, and added the results of my own rearing from eggs
collected over a longish period from orange trees in my own and
neighbouring public gardens in Calcutta. The collecting was done at
intervals of a few days, so that it can be claimed that the resuits are
fully representative of the population. The figures are as under:
Males Bh 80
Females f. s¢zchius Bee 65
f. vomulus Dee 12
f. cyrus Bae 18 95
If anything, the proportion of romulus may be a little higher than it
ought to be as a batch of some half dozen eggs was once found,
obviously the product of a crippled female, and this produced three
vomulus females and three males.
It will be seen that the number of females reared excéeded the
number of males. Due to their more retiring habits females are usually
less in evidence than the other sex.
MomBaSA, D. G. SEVASTOPULO,
February 10, 1956. F.R.E.S.
35. THE ‘SLUG’ CATERPILLAR, PARASA LEPIDA CR.,
AND ITS CONTROL
Ananthanarayan and Abraham’s paper under this heading (1955,
JBNHS, 53: 205) omits any mention of what is undoubtedly its most
interesting parasite. This is the Chrysidid wasp Chrysis shanghaiensis
Smith. In 1936, in Calcutta, I found a considerable proportion of
the cocoons of P. lepida spun on the trunk of a mango tree had been
parasitised by the Chrysid, (mihi,—1937, Proc. R. Ent. Soc., Lond.,
(A), Has ti):
The Chrysididae, also known as Cuckoo or Rubytail Wasps, betong
to the Vespoidae and are normally parasites of other solitary wasps,
the parasite larva feeding on the host larva and the insects stored for
its food. The direct parasitisation of a Lepidopteron by a Chrysid
may give an indication of how the parasitic habits of the more highly
specialised Ichneumonidae and Braconidae have arisen. Firstiy the
collection and storage of insects for food for the larva; secondly the
‘cuckolding’ of other species of solitary wasp; thirdly the laying of
an egg on or near a lepidopterous cocoon, as in the present species;
742 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL GIST SOCTEDN Vol.53
and finally the highly specialised habits of the modern ichneumonidae
and Braconidae.
As a matter of interest, P. lepida is also well known as a pest
on both tea and coffee.
Momsasa, ~ D. G. SEVASTOPULO,
February 23, 1956. NR DoS
36. INTERESTING OBSERVATIONS ON THE MOUNDS
OF THE TERMITE, ODONTOTERMES REDEMANNI
(WASMANN)
While collecting specimens of the termite Odontotermes redemanni
(Wasmann) in July 1955 from mounds at Jhargram, a town in West
Bengal, some interesting observations on the mounds were made.
In course of collection we came across a mound of moderate size,
quite uninhabited by any termite. As expected, the Royal chamber
was also found to be empty. The mound was, however, full of the
ants of the genera, Camponotus and Solenopsis. Ants are known as
one of the termitophilous insects, and about their relationship with
the termites Imms (1951)! states that they are quite friendly, unless
the nest is disturbed. It therefore appears that in the present case
the normal relationship between the ants and the termites was some-
how disturbed, resulting in the complete possession of the mound by
the ants, who overpowered the termites.
Ants, collembola and myriapods were common in all the nests
examined, and in addition Cybister larvae were obtained from four
mounds out of the total twenty mounds examined at that time.
ENTOMOLOGY LABORATORY,
ZOOLOGY ‘DEPARTMENT, BARUNDEB BANERJEE
UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF SCIENCE,
CALCUTTA,
March 8, 1956.
27. DHE ESSE NDA OLE Ohne“ VibOZO GON
TRAVANCORENSIS BOR
The: new classification of ‘white grass’, formerly designated
Cymbopogon flexuosus Stapf. forma albescens, as a species (C. travan-
CXOAPSS 18X01) lone IY, MING I, BoP | WBINUEIS, Ga ())e isl] is. teullhy
substantiated by the results of analysis of its essential oil. Details
of the analysis were included in a thesis submitted by me in 1953 to
the Travancore University and will be published elsewhere. The oil
does not contain a detectable quantity of citrol and contains only a
relatively small proportion of borneol, the characteristic constituent
of some related grasses. Its chief constituent (ca. 40%) is, not a
'Imms, A. D, (1981): A text book of Entomology, New York.
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES 743
terpene derivative at all but a benzenoid compound elemicin. Elemicin
has not yet been reported in any Indian Cymbopogon oil though it
occurs in two foreign grasses, C. georingu and C. procerus.
“MALIKA’
KURUPPAM Roap, T. C. K. MENON
TRICHUR,
April 10, 1956.
38. A SPECIFIC FOR LEUCODERMA
(With two figures)
Leucoderma (Vitiligo) is a disease caused by the absence of the
pigment ‘melanin’ from the affected portions of the skin cf human
beings. The disease, though looked on with alarm by a great majority
of the people, is unlike leprosy neither contagious nor hereditary.
The available data on the prevalence of the disease in India indicates
&
DiGweas
Psoralea corylifolia Linn.
A.—Portion of a flowering twig. bat ; : |
B.—Mature seed showing the characteristic markings on the seed-coat.
C.—Mature seed with the seed-coat removed.
that the incidence of the disease is on the increase, It is also noticed
that men suffer more from this disease than women, the proportion
of affected men to women being roughly in the ratio of 15:1.
15A
744 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST, SOCIETY, Vol. 53
Various specifics are known to have been tried in the treatment
of this disease, but the results have not been found to be very
encouraging. Certain oleo-resinous extracts, essential oils, psoralen-
isopsoralen mixture, leudermol, liq. hydrarg-perchloride and oil of
Baichi (Psoralea corylifolia Linn.) are some of the medicines generally
prescribed in the treatment of this disease. Among all, the herbaceous
plant Psoralea corylifolia Linn. (family Leguminosae)—(fig. 1-A)
has gained importance. This plant grows generally in a wild state
in the plains throughout India. Its tiny seeds which are brownish
black in colour (fig. 1-B) have an agreeable aromatic odour and are
bitter to the taste. The seeds are much used in the treatment of
leucoderma. Chemically, the seeds contain a resin, an essential oil,
a terpenoid oil, and two crystalline principles called psoralen and
isopsoralen, to which are attributed the anthelmintic and antidermatic
properties of Psoralea corylifolia Linn.
In the present note I mention a specific prescribed by a fakir
which, from my personal and intimate knowledge of its application
to two patients, has brought marvellous results. The patients treated
were one a boy of 17 years and the other a middle-aged man of 35
years, both acute cases of leucoderma.
The basic materials used in the medicine are the seeds of Psoralea
corylifolia Linn. (vern. Babechi, Babachi, Baichi), Cicer arietinum Linn.
(the common gram), and fresh mature leaves of Melia indica Linn.
(the common Neem tree). Equal quantities, say 1 seer of each of
the above materials, are boiled in water sufficient to cover the
materials for 7-8 hours in a suitable container, preferably with a
wide mouth. After boiling thus for about 7-8 hours, and when the
watér has almost evaporated, the neem leaves alone are removed
carefully and discarded. The remaining portion consisting of the
boiled seeds of Psoralea corylifolia Linn. and Cicer arietinum Linn.
are then spread out and dried in the open shade for 3-4 days on any
suitable tray or plate, previously scrupulously cleaned. After drying
completely for 3-4 days, the dried material is then kept inside a cavity
scooped out of the main trunk of a fairly large Neem tree. This
cavity (fig. 2) is to be at least 3-4 inches in diameter and 2-3 inches
deep. The mouth of the cavity is covered by a tin plate. ‘The
material is left in that cavity for at least 2} to 3 months, after which
it is taken out and dried again in shade in the open for about 3-4
days. It is then powdered and preserved in a well-corked container.
The powder thus prepared constitutes the specific. The dose pre-
scribed is 1 (one) tea-spoonful of the powder with $ cup of water to
be taken on an empty stomach, every morning.
The medicine, when administered to the two cases referred to
earlier, showed very encouraging results even within a month of
their treatment. The white patches on the skin at first gradually
turned to red or light red. Later small dark spots appeared on the
affected portions, and these spots gradually increased, ultimately
completely obscuring the white patches. and turning. the skin quite
MISCELLANEOUS NOTES "45
normal. The formation of any fresh patches or spread of the
infected portions of the patients were also found effectively arrested.
The two patients are now completely cured, without any trace of their
past ailment.
Sketch of a portion of the mature stem of Neem tree showing the scouped
portion where the boiled and dried seeds of Psoralea corylifolia Jinn. and Cicer
arietinum Linn. (the common gram) are kept in the preparation of the specific.
In conclusion, I express my grateful thanks to Sri K. S. Srinivasan,
Curator, Industrial Section, Indian Museum, Botanical Survey of
India, for his kind criticism of this note.
INDUSTRIAL SECTION,
INDIAN MuSEum, A.. BASU, Misc.
BoTaNniCAL SURVEY OF INDIA, |
CALCUTTA,
[Une eLe) sO
746 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
39. WILD LIFE PRESERVATION IN INDIA
I was interested to read the letter by Colonel R. W. Burton (52:
923) on the preservation of wild life in what he calls the former Gilgit
Agency. I was up in these parts only last year where I spent a
considerable time in climbing and trekking. i am, therefore, in a
position to say something on some of the points raised:
(1) Marco Polo’s sheep is still found in Hunza State where the
Mir exercises a fairly good protection over the wild life of his territory.
(2) As regards trout the river Ghizr has plenty of this fish,
specially in the area between Gupis and Ghizr. As a keen fisherman
himself, the Raja of Gupis protects the fishing in his area with
great success. Consequently, trout have flourished and a _ good
amount of fishing can be enjoyed above Gupis at Pingle, Phandar and
Ghizr. These trout run to quite a big size. Above Ghizr there are
not many fish as the river becomes smaller as one goes higher.
Actually good fishing starts just a few miles from Gilgit itself. I
liad plenty of it all the way from Gilgit to Ghizr—a distance of about
go miles. Up to Gupis one can now ride in a jeep, and then a miule
track which I followed over the Shandu Pass into Chitral.
There is no doubt that great damage has been done to wild life
on the whole in all the northern areas and strict protection is badly
needed to conserve it, but there is still quite a lot. I saw markhor,
ibex, and even a skin of a freshly killed snow leopard was brought te
me. I was told by the locals that there are quite a few of them
still in existence.
EMBASSY OF PAKISTAN,
WasuHincton, D.C., M. HAYAUD DIN,
2315, MassacHusEeTts AVENUE, N.W., Maj.-Gen.
January 9, 1956.
40. ON THE NAMES FOR CERTAIN BIRDS RECENTLY
ADOPTED BY THE INTERNATIONAL COMMISSION
ON ZOOLOGICAL NOMENCLATURE
The International Commission on Zoological Nomenclature has
recently taken a _ series of important decisions on the names
for certain birds regarding which applications to the Commission
were published in October 1952 in Part 1/3 of volume 9 of the Bulletin
of Zoological Nomenclature. Among the decisions so taken the
following are of wide general interest:—({1) suppression of the generic
name Colymbus Linnaeus, 1758, and acceptance of the generic
name Gavia Forster, 1788, for the divers (loons), and of Podiceps
Latham, 1787, for the grebes (Opinion 4o1); (2) validation of the
generic name Pyrrhocorax (Tunstall), 1771, for the Chough by the
suppression of the name Coracia Brisson, 1760 {Opinion 404); (3)
suppression of the specific name ericetorum Turton, i807, and
acceptance of the name philomelos Brehm, 1831, for the Song Thrush
(Opinion 405); (4) suppression for nomenclatorial purposes of the
names by Linnaeus published in 1776 in the ‘Catalogue of Birds,
GLEANINGS ) 747
Beasts, . . . in Edwards’ Natural History’ (Opinion 412; (5) valida-
tion of the name Columba migratoria Linnaeus, 1766, for the
Passenger Pigeon (Direction 18); (6) validation of the generic names
Bubo Dumeril, 1806, Coturnix Bonnaterre, 1790, Egretia Forster,
1817, and Oriolus Linnaeus, 1766, by the suppression of older
homonyms (Direction 21); (7) acceptance of Gallinago Brisson, 1760,
and rejection of Capella Frenzel, 1801, as the generic name for
the Snipe (Direction 39). The foregoing Opinions and Directions are
now in the press and will be published at an early date. All enquiries
should be addressed to the Publications Officer, International Trust
for Zoological Nomenclature (address: 41 Queen’s Gate, London,
So Wo Fr
41, QUEEN’S GATE, FRANCIS HEMMING,
Lonpon, S.W. 7, GEMEGs, ACaBeE.
April 18, 1956. Secretary, International Commission on
Zoological Nomenclature.
GLEANINGS
How CAMELS CONSERVE WATER
It has long been known that the camel can survive hard work in
the heat of the tropical desert for a long period without water, but
how this is done has been a mystery. Ancient lore said «that
the water was stored in the hump. This is impossible because the
hump is solid. Later it was said that he drank an abnormal quantity
of water which was stored in one of his multiple stomachs similar to
those of the cow. This is not correct as the camel does not drink
large quantities of water until after he has been well dried out. Dr.
Knut Schmidt-Nielsen, Professor of Zoology at Duke University in
the U.S.A., directed the study and reported the results to the
UNESCO Advisory Committee on Arid Zone Research. The research
had been sponsored by UNESCO, the Guggenheim Foundation, Duke
University and the U.S. Government.
The camel’s unique ability to go without water turns out to be the
result of half a dozen extraordinary properties that are not shared
by any other animal. He cannot store the water as such but it is
conserved in the following ways:
(1) His excretions are very low in water content, while those
from his kidneys only amount to # oz. per hour, less than a_ pint
per day, even when he can drink all he wants.
(2) The camel does not cool himself by evaporating water from
his skin by sweating, or from the tongue and respiratory tract by
panting. He has a pattern of sweat glands widely distributed over the
skin, but these come into play only when the body temperature reaches
danger point and then secrete no more water than is_ absolutely
necessary. Accordingly the body temperature can rise from 93° F.
to 104°F. without any ill-effects to the animal.
(3) When the camel loses water under prolonged heat and when
the body temperature is well above normal, he does not lose water
748 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
from his blood stream and the concentration of blood plasma remains
close to normal.
(4) The camel’s thick fur is an additional protective device.
With all these protective devices in cool. January weather the
average loss of body weight is 0.9 per cent of the camel’s weight
per day; in a hot June it is 2.2 per cent. By contrast, the donkey
loses 3 per cent per day in January and 7.7 per cent per day in
June.
(Adapted from UNESCO Report in Pakistan Journal of Science
Vol. 7 No. 4, July 1955. Pp. 200-10.) 7
Without Comment.
Maharaja Ramanuj Saran Singh Deo, Maharaja of Surguja, in
a note on ‘Tiger Hunting in India’, Journal of the Bengai Natural
‘History Society, April 1955, xxvii (3): 98 states: “* have shot 1,111
tigers and over 2,000 panthers. J have hunted in Surguja, Madhya
Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Nepal, Rajasthan and Vindhya
IPOS Os a My highest bag of tigers is 5 in a beat in five
shots and 11 panthers in one night.’
Songs of Cicadas.
In Spolia Zeylanica 27 (II): 229-39 (1955) is an article on ‘The
Songs and Habits of Ceylon Cicadas, with a Description of Two New
Species’ by J. W. S. Pringle, Department of Zoology, Cambridge.
In the course of an investigation of the physiology of sound pro-
duction ‘it soon became clear that the characteristic song pattern,
once recognised, can be used to give positive identification of the
species in the field.’ . . . ‘Field recordings of the songs of the
nine species were made with an M.S.S. Magnetic Tape Recorder,
Type PMR/1, operated from a car accumulator through a vibrator
power supply. This instrument records with little distortion the
song of the larger species, whose sound spectrum falls mainly within
the range audible to human ear. .. . Slow oscillograms of the songs
are shown in Plate 1.’
A Strange Fish Habit.
Prof. J. L. B. Smith of Rhodes University, Grahamstown, South
Africa in a letter in Nature (14 April 1956), p. 714 records a Gobius |
bibarbatus caught in a tide pool near Swakopmund, which blew itself
up in the same fashion as a Tetraodon (puffer fishes).
It is interesting to speculate what ecological or other factors have
tended to produce this most extraordinary habit.
Extracts from ‘GoLp Sport AND COFFEE PLANTING IN MysorE’ by
Robert H. Elliot (published in 1894) dealing with his experiences as a
coffee planter in Mysore for 38 years after 1855.
Page 93, 94.—He confirms the ‘native’ view that ‘the bear is more
dangerous than the tiger, and the panther much less dangerous than
GLEANINGS 749
either’. Quoting from the North Kanara Gazetteer, he states that
‘during the 22 years ending 1887, 510 tigers were killed and 44
persons killed by them. Between 1856 and 1882, 51 bears were
killed and 22 persons killed by them.’ He calculates that ‘the bear is
therefore about four times as dangerous as the tiger, the tiger is
about three times as dangerous as the panther and the bear is about
fourteen times as dangerous to man as the panther.’ Regarding
comparative destructiveness to animal life, he observes that ‘the tiger
seems to be more troublesome than the panther and between 1878 and
1882, 4041 heads of cattle were killed by tigers as against 1617 by
panthers.’
Page 96.—He quotes the Mysore Gazetteer (Vol. 2 p. 13) that
‘according to old legends the lion was once found in that Province.’
Page 126.—A shikari had just tried to climb a tree, but been
unsuccessful. “The tiger presently emerged from the jungle, went to
the tree and began roaring and scraping at the ground, and he musi
have either smelt traces of the manager or seen him trying to get up
into it, and concluded he was there. However, he deliberately went
up the tree paw over paw, and got into a cleft of it and looked
about in the tree, and then came down backwards, and was shot in
the act of descending.’
Page 135.—‘ A tiger flew at a Hindoo peasant—a first-rate plucky
sportsman, and as the tiger charged, the man struck at it with his
hacking knife (a formidable weapon in the hands of a man who knows
how to use it, and used to cut underwood, and thick boughs of trees),
with the result that the tiger’s skull was split open and the animal
killed on the spot. The native was thrown backwards with force,
and his head came in contact with a stone. He got up, and by this
time was surrounded by the people, when, holding out his hand, he
said, ‘Look here’, and then paused. Everyone expected some remark
about the tiger, but, amidst general laughter—for the natives have
a keen sense of humour—he continued, ‘‘There will be a bump on my
head tomorrow as big as a coconut’’.’
Page 138.—‘In all the books I have read about tigers I have never
met with an allusion to tigers purring like cats from satisfaction, but
a brother planter informs me that he heard a wounded tiger, that
had killed one of the natives who was following him up, purr for -
several minutes, as he described it, ‘“‘like a thousand cats’’.’
Page 140, 141.—‘The bear breeds much slower than the tiger and
that is why they are so soon almost exterminated. In Belgaum
between 1840 and 1880, 223 bears were killed. The steady decline of
the numbers of the bears is shown by the fact that 137 were killed
between 1840 and 1850, 51 between 1850 and 1860, 32 between 1860
and 1870, and 3 between 1870 and 1880. In Kanara 51 bears were
killed between 1856 and 1882.’
Page 158.— From what I have known of the habits of the wild
boar, I do not think I should ever be inclined to partake of its meat,
and certainly not when cholera is about. A neighbour of mine told
me that when he was once beating a jungle for game the natives
750 JOURNAL, BOMBAY NATURAL HIST. SOCIETY, Vol. 53
backed out of it with great promptness, having come upon wild pigs
in the act of devouring the dead bodies of some people who had
diced of cholera... . An official of the Forest Department told me
that, passing one day near the place where the carcase of an elephant
lay, he had the curiosity to go and look at it. To his astonishment
he found the flanks heaving as if the elephant were still alive, and
while he was wondering what this could mean, two wild boars, which
had tunnelled their way in, and were luxuriating on the contents of
the carcase, suddenly rushed out.’
Page 159.—‘In the 1876-77 famine the wild dog grew very bold
in Kanara and killed great numbers of half-starved cattle which were
driven into the forest to graze, 3. Aowidespread belief is that
the dogs first of all micturate on each other’s bushy tails, and, when
rushing past the tiger, whisk their tails into his eyes and thus blind
him with the objectionable fluid, after which they can attack him
with comparative impunity. A forest officer informs me that the Gonds
have a somewhat similar tradition, and that they believe that the dogs
first of all micturate on the ground around the tiger, and that the
effuvium has the effect of blinding him.’ (In a footnote he adds
that Jerdon who heard a similar story in Nepal disbelieves it.)
Page 162.—‘I have good reason to suppose that the immense
number of deaths (sometimes returned at 17,000 or 18,000 for all
India) reported as being caused by snake-bite, are really poisoning cases
which are falsely returned as being due to this cause.... In my
own long experience, I have not only never known of a death from
snake bite on my estates, but have, since 1855, never heard of but
one case in my neighbourhood, and that was of a boy who was killed
by a deadly snake about four or five miles from my house.’
Page 166.—‘The tank snake, often from g to 1o feet long, is not
~only harmless but useful, as it lives so largely on rats and mice, and is
in consequence sometimes called the rat snake. On one occasion a
manager shot one of these snakes near my house, and it had a rat
in its mouth when killed, and such snakes, so far from being killed,
ought to be carefully protected .... I was interested in observing
the proceedings of one of these snakes when followed up by two dogs
of mine in the open. First of all, it made for a clump of two or three
scrubby trees, and, apparently first fastening itself by the neck
to a stump, lashed out with its tail. Then when the dogs came closer
it again made off through the grass, but on being overtaken by ihe
dogs must have either bitten one of them, or lashed it with its tail,
as the dog gave a sharp cry and retreated.’
Page 173.—‘Anything more foolish and barbarous than the killing
of cow bisons cannot be conceived, for there is not a more harmless
and inoffensive animal in the jungle than the bison—harmless because
it seldom attacks crops (I have never known of more than one instance
of their doing so), and inoffensive because, if not molested, it never
attacks man.’
IDOE Wap ASST EM neighbour, Mr. Park, caught a male calf
bison which was supposed to be about three days old. About a week
GLEANINGS 751
later a young doe sambar, which was being pursued by jungle dogs,
rushed into one of the labourers’ huts and was secured. The two
were kept together, though they were never shut up. They were
first of all fed on milk, and then allowed to graze, and soon became
quite inseparable companions. They were fed at twelve o’clock and
at four in the afternoon, and seemed to know their feeding time
exactly. When about two years old a nose rope was fitted on to the
bison and it was led out to graze. The sambar sometimes remained
behind, but seemed to have no difficulty in finding the bull even though
it had been taken to a considerable distance. It would hold up its
nose to catch the scent and then go off on the track. When the
bison occasionally missed the doe he would wander about in search of
her, but seemed to have no power of following her by scent—a power
which she evidently possessed and practised. When the bull was about
three years old it was presented to the Maharajah of Mysore, and
sent off to the nearest railway station some sixty miles away. Some
time after he had left, the doe discovered his absence, and then, in
her usual way, went about holding up her nose in order to discover
the direction in which he had gone. Presently she hit off the route
and, setting off in pursuit, overtook her old companion after he had
gone about five or six miles and, though the doe had not been given
to the Maharajah, she was allowed to accompany the bull. When
the doe overtook the bull he showed the greatest signs of pleasure
at her arrival, and the two travelled happily along to Mysore.’
NOTES AND NEWS
At the instance of the Bird Wing, Indian Board for Wild Life,
Mr. Salim Ali undertook an investigation of the alleged detrimental
effect of the Kandla-Deesa railway embankment across the Little Rann
of Kutch on the breeding grounds of the flamingo in the Great Rann. -
The investigation revealed that the bund in no way interferes with the
amount of water discharged into the Great Rann by the rivers to its
north, and that the requisite hydrological conditions continue, as before, ”
to depend mainly upon the SW. Monsoon. Flamingoes had bred in
large numbers in the Great Rann after the satisfactory rainfall of the
1955 season, and it appears that a deficient monsoon is really what
produces the adverse conditions that inhibit breeding. Fortunately the
railway embankment seems to have nothing or little to do with the
non-nesting of the birds that has been reported in a series of recent
years.
* * * *
Dr. M. L. Roonwal, M.Sc., Ph.D., F.N.I., F:Z.S.1., Forest Ento-
mologist, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun, and a member of the
Society’s Advisory Committee has been appointed Director of the
Zoological Survey of India in place of the late Dr, S. L. Hora. |
PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY V. M. PHILIP AT THE DIOCESAN PRESS
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EDITORS: SALIM ALI, AND H. SANTAPAU .
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