Animal & Avian Sciences Theses and Dissertations
Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/1903/2741
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Item Variations in Vocalizations of Fin Whales, Balaenoptera physalus, in the St. Lawrence River(1980) Edds, Peggy Louise; Buchler, Edward; Animal & Avian Sciences; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, MD)Recordings were made of vocalizations from fin whales, Balaenoptera physalus from a fixed hydrophone in the St. Lawrence River between 28 June and 27 September 1979. Land-based observers monitored activity from a hillside hut while recordings were being made from a shoreline site. Photographs of dorsal fin variations were used to identify distinctive individuals. The 1522 sounds recorded were classified into 11 categories based on frequency and temporal characteristics. The predominant call was a descending sweep of frequencies. Parameters measured for this downsweep exhibited a dichotomy of characteristics which indicates calls with initial frequencies below 40 Hz have less variability than calls with initial frequencies above 40 Hz. In general, solitary animals produced primarily the lower frequency downsweeps. Higher frequency downsweeps were recorded from pairs or trios of fin whales. Solitary individuals did not exhibit unique variations in downsweep parameters. No clusters of values which might indicate uniquely individual ranges were consistently present in multiple animal recordings. The data suggest that the variability of fin whale vocalizations is primarily contextual rather than individual.Item Infant and Juvenile-Directed Care Behaviors in Adult Toque Macaques, Macaca Sinica(1985) Baker-Dittus, Anne; Animal & Avian Sciences; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, MD)The identity of care-givers, and the distribution of care to young are examined in a free-ranging polygynous primate, Macaca sinica. Care behavior is used as one measure of investment in young. There is no evidence that dominance rank influences offspring sex, but high-ranking mothers provide more care to newborn infants than do low-ranking mothers. Mothers provide more care to infant and first year sons than to daughters. This supports Dittus's suggestion (1979, 1980) that mothers should schedule care to sons and daughters differently, providing high levels of care to sons before they emigrate from the natal group. Care to daughters is low per unit time, but continues over a long period because daughters remain in the natal group. Adult females, other than the mother, tolerate, groom and support young. These behaviors are low cost, relative to the high cost behaviors of nursing and carrying, which only mothers provide. Young tend to associate with adult female relatives. Unlike male-biased maternal care, adult female care is biased towards female young; and female young return care more than do male young . Adult female rank is positively correlated with the amount of support adult females provide to female young, and the amount of grooming they receive from female young. Adult female rank has no effect on any measure of association between adult females and male young. Taken together these findings suggest that reciprocal altruism has been important in shaping adult female interactions with young. Adult and subadult M. sinica males direct the low cost, affiliative behaviors of hugging, carrying and grooming towards male infants; and direct aggressive behaviors towards female infants. I suggest that the distribution of behaviors reflects their value to male and female young. Affiliative behaviors to male infants, and aggressive behaviors to female infants serve to channel infants into association with adults from whom they can learn appropriate sex-typical behaviors, and as such benefit both male and female infants. High cost care behaviors of support in agonistic interactions, and protection are provided only by the adult male, and are provided to male and female young equally.Item The interaction between a parasitic barnacle, Loxothylacus panopaei (Cirripedia, Rhizocephala), and three of its crab host species (Brachyura, Xanthidae) along the east coast of North America.(1993) Alvarez, Fernando; Reaka-Kudla, Marjorie; Animal & Avian Sciences; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, MD)Rhizocephalan barnacles parasitize primarily decapod crustaceans (Bocquet-Vedrine 1968, Overstreet 1983). The principal effect of the parasites is often the permanent sterilization of the hosts (Bocquet-Vedrine 1972, O'Brien & Van Wyk 1984). Regardless of the processes involved, the end result of the infection is the creation of non-reproductive individuals that will use resources that otherwise would be available to the healthy traction of the host population. The potential impact on the host population then resides in the accumulation of sterile resource-using individuals in each generation. Prevalences of barnacles on anomuran and brachyuran crabs have been reported in a number of studies (e.g., Walker 1985, Hawkes et al. 1986, Johnson et al. 1986, Wardle & Tirpak 1991 ). Rhizocephalan infections can reach very high levels locally, suggesting that entire host populations may have a greatly reduced reproductive capacity. However, in most host species, the pattern of distribution of parasites is not uniform throughout the host's range. I examined the crab-rhizocephalan interaction using the system composed by the barnacle Loxothylacus panopaei and three of its crab host species: Panopeus lacustris, Eurypanopeus depressus, and Rhithropanopeus harrisii, occurring along the east coast of the North America. Through experimental infections conducted in the laboratory, it was determined that B. harrisii of a wide range of sizes could be infected by L. panopaei. The complete life-cycle of the parasite was manipulated in the laboratory. Neither host molting frequency nor host molt increments differed significantly between parasitized and control crabs. Host survival was significantly reduced during the parasite's developmental period; the heaviest mortality of the host occurred in the megalopal stage.Item MOLECULAR ANALYSIS OF CYCLOPHILIN FUNCTION IN THE YEAST SACCHAROMYCES CEREVISIAE(1994) Davis, Edward S.; Brennan, Miles S.; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, MD)The cyclophilins are a family of proteins first identified as receptors for cyclosporin A (CsA), a cyclic peptide of fungal origin. CsA inhibits T-lymphocyte activation, and is thus a potent immunosuppressant. Although cyclophilins are ubiquitous, and highly conserved, among eukaryotes, their normal physiological functions are unknown. As the receptors for CsA, cyclophilins might be involved in regulating signal transduction pathways. Cyclophilns also have peptidyl-prolyl, cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity in vitro, suggesting a role in protein folding in vivo. While CsA inhibits cyclophilin's PPIase activity, this inhibition is insufficient to account for the pharmacological activity of CsA. Therefore, previous results cannot be readily synthesized into a model for cyclophilin function. The goal of this project was to define and characterize physiological roles of cyclophilins using the yeast S. cerevisiae. Three S. cerevisiae cyclophilin genes were cloned and inactivated by insertional mutagenesis. I demonstrated that one, CPR3, is necessary for the efficient metabolism of non-fermentable carbon sources. The CPR] gene product, Cpr3, is localized to the mitochondrial matrix, and a truncated version of Cpr3 expressed in bacteria binds CsA. CPR3 inactivation does not significantly compromise the induction of transcription of two nuclear cytochrome genes. Thus, Cpr3 is not necessary for the signal transduction pathway governing cytochrome gene expression. To identify biochemical targets of Cpr3, I demonstrated that inactivation of a mitochondrial lactate dehydrogenase is insufficient to account for the growth defect of cpr3 mutants. An exhaustive search for high-copy suppressors of the growth defect of cpr3 mutants led to the identification of a novel gene, JEN1, that suppresses the growth defect at elevated temperature. JEN1 encodes a protein that is probably a lactate transporter, and thus not a direct biochemical target of Cpr3. A dominant mutation in a nuclear gene, JEN2, suppresses the growth defect of cpr3 mutants on lactate at 30°C and 37°C. JEN2 might encode a direct biochemical target of Cpr3. In summary, the cyclophilin, Cpr3, plays a general role in the efficient function of yeast mitochondria, and presents an excellent model system for studying cyclophilin function.Item The Life Cycles, Ecology, and Evolution of the Witch-hazel Leaf Gall Aphid, Hormaphis hamamelidis (Fitch) (Homoptera: Aphidida)(1987) von Dohlen, Carol Dean; Gill, Doulgas E.; Zoology; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, MD)Two divergent life cycles based on geographic location have been documented for the witch-hazel leaf gall aphid, Hormaphis hamamelidis (Fitch, 1851). At low elevations in northern Virginia, the aphid was found to have seven distinct generations alternating between the primary host, Witch-hazel (Hamamelis virginiana L.), and a secondary host, river birch (Betula nigra L.). These findings confirm the original published life cycle description from the same locality. A second, abbreviated life cycle consisting of only three generations restricted to witch-hazel was discovered at high (1000 m) elevations in north central and northwestern Virginia. Aphids with each life cycle were sympatric at an intermediate elevation site. Based on available life cycle and geographic data, a preliminary Phylogeny of the tribe Hormaphidini is proposed that suggests an unusual polarity in the evolution of aphid life cycles. Several features of intraspecific interactions and host-plant relations were examined in both lowland and highland populations of Hormaphis. In contrast to previous publications documenting severe competition, density effects, and habitat heterogeneity for another galling, host-alternating aphid, Pemphigus betae on Populus angustifolia, the effects of density and host-plant qualities on Hormaphis hamamelidis were fewer and more benign. Aphids did not compete for gall sites, and gall Position and final leaf area did not influence reproduction. High gall densities negatively affected gall growth and aphid fecundity. Factors accounting for the differences in Population dynamics between Hormaphis and Pemphigus are hypothesized and discussed.Item Vertical Resource Partitioning and Sexuality of Three Sympatric Species of Red Sea Sandfishes (Xyrichtys melanopus, Labridae; Trichonotus nikii, Trichonotidae; Gorgasia sp., Congridae)(1988) Krall, Marianne Martha; Clark, Eugenie; Zoology; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, Md)Three species of marine sandfishes were studied from 1984 to 1986. Their inter- and intraspecific behavior was monitored during the daylight hours to examine interactions that could result in the vertical stratification of the species over the sandy bottom within the fringing and patch reefs in the north Red Sea. Horizontal plankton tows were taken at three heights and three times a day. These samples were compared to stomach contents of the fishes to determine the trophic relationships in the community and their affects on spatial relations between the species . Prey specificities of the fishes were determined by using an electivity measure. Using paraffin histology, Xyrichtys melanopus was determined to be a monandric protogynous hermaphrodite and Trichonotus nikii, a gonochorist. Previous work on the mating systems and territoriality of all three sandfish species helped in part to explain the vertical spatial arrangement of the sandfish species within the community. Effects of pollution on the b iota of the Northern Gulf of Aqaba are noted.Item Dietary Control of Cystinuria in Maned Wolves (Chrysocyon Brachyurus)(1998) Boniface, Jennifer; Soares, Joseph H., Jr.; Avian and Animal Sciences; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, Md)The maned wolf (Chysocyon brachyurus) is an endangered South American species of canid, whose numbers in both the wild and captivity are threatened in part by a condition called cystinuria. In humans and rats, cystinuria is caused by mutations of the rBAT gene, expressed in intestinal mucosal cells and renal tubules. In dogs, only renal tubules are affected. Cystinuric individuals exhibit impaired capacity for reabsorption of the sulfur amino acid cystine. Consequently, excess cystine accumulates in the urine. In acidic conditions, cystine may precipitate into uroliths, potentially obstructing the urethra and ultimately causing bladder rupture or kidney damage. Treatments include medical management and dietary modification. Test diets differing only in levels of cystine were fed to 15 maned wolves in a cross-over design. Apparent digestibility calculations suggest the diets were well received, well utilized and improved fecal quality. The low cystine diet significantly reduced urinary excretion of cystine (P<0.05). Mean urinary concentrations of cystine were 341±45.87 mg/L or 2.78±0.326% total urinary nitrogen for the low cystine diet; and 475.8± 47.80 mg/L or 4.01± 0.342% for the high cystine diet. Water balance studies was determined three maned wolves, using orally administered deuterium oxide. Urine samples were collected daily for seven days, purified by sublimation, and analyzed by infrared spectrometry. It was determined that total body water, water turnover rate and body composition were 17.2 L, 2.3 L/d, and 20.5% fat; 79.5% lean, respectively. These results are comparable to published values for dogs.Item Periparturient Behavior of Beef Cows and Calves(1987) Ramli, Abdullah Sani; Stricklin, W.R.; Animal & Avian Sciences; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, Md)Crossbred and purebred gestating Angus and Hereford cows were monitored during the 1985 and 1986 spring calving seasons (number of calvings = 375). Cows were assigned randomly to one of two treatment groups that were balanced by breed-class, age and expected date of calving. The control group was fed corn silage at 0900 hours, and hay was available free choice. The treated group was fed the same diet but at 2100 hours, and time of access to the hay was restricted to between 2100 and 0900 hours. Each group was kept in a 3.2 ha paddock and observed continuously during the 1985 calving season. During 1986 similar treatments were used, but observations were not continuous. Data recorded were behavioral signs of parturition, times and locations of parturition and behaviors of cow-calf pairs observed continuously until 8 hours post-partum. Group diurnal activity patterns were recorded over 61 consecutive days in 1985. Post-partum behavior variables of the dam were time to first standing and grooming and total time spent standing, lying, grooming, browsing and eating. Calf variables were initial standing, teat seeking, mobility, suckling, total time spent on these activities and body weight at weaning. A significant (P <.05) shift in the diurnal activity patterns of the cows occurred when the feeding schedule was altered, but treatment did not affect (P>.10) the time of day when parturition occurred. The percentage of cows calving between 0600 and 1800 hours were 55 and 60 for the control and the treated groups, respectively. During the first 8 hours post-partum, differences in the time of onset and total time spent on some behaviors were determined to be related to breed of sire and dam, parity and sex of calf. Multiple regression of weaning weight on periparturient behavioral traits resulted in R2 values of 54 and 24% for heifer and bull calves, respectively. It was concluded that night-time feeding does not result in a significant increase in day-time calvings, and there is at least a moderate relationship between cow-calf behavior in the first 8 hours after birth and the calf's weaning weight.Item Habitat, home range, and population study of the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina)(1986) Hallgren-Scaffidi, Lynette; Flyger, Vagn; Animal Science; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, Md)This study covers the home range, population size, habitat type and components of habitat of the eastern box turtle, Terrapene carolina. The study area was within the floodplains of the Patuxent River on the grounds of Patuxent Wildlife Research Center, Laurel, Maryland. A home range and population study was conducted by Lucille Stickel in 1945 within the same study-area and provided a basis for comparative analysis including information on population trends. Mark-recapture data and a tread-trailer device were used to estimate populations, trace the daily route of eleven individual turtles, and home range size. The range length and convex polygon methods were used to calculate home range size. The average box turtles home range as calculated by the range length method was .733 hectares. In addition the average area calculated by the convex polygon method is .955 hectares for the thread-trailer technique. These home range estimates depict a small reduction in range size from Stickels original estimates Forest maturation is proposed as one of the primary factors influencing this reduction of range size. The population size of the box turtle within the study-area was ascertained by mark-recapture techniques. Using the Schnabel Method of estimating population size, an average of 8.62 (8.30 for 1984; 8.92 for 1985) turtles per hectare was determined. The total number of turtles found during the 1985 study season (58) in comparison to the total number found during the 1945 study season (284) demonstrates the declining population of the Patuxent box turtles over the las t four decades. The largest population of box turtles were found in forest habitat s or forest-field ecotones. Determination of box turtles preference for habitat types and components of habitat was emphasized in this study. Two habitat types, 'dried streambeds' and 'woods opening', encompassed the smallest areas of the study site while providing habitat for the greatest number of turtles. In addition many turtles showed preference for two components of habitats (out in the open and under a log). However, because it is easier to locate turtles out in the open, it is proposed here that the large number of turtles found in this Component of Habitat is due to bias surveying technique s and not a preference for turtles. The results also provide information for improving box turtle habitat within parklands. Changes to the study-area and surrounding ecosystems have occurred over the pa s t four decades. The fore s t has matured, upstream waters have been impounded by dams, filtration plants built and increased pollution of the Patuxent River have occurred. The decline in box turtle abundance is probably due to the frequent floods that inundate turtle eggs when upstream dams are opened.Item Physiological and Behavioral Effects of Handling and Restraint of the Ball Python (Python regius) and the Blue-Tongued Skink (Tiliqua scincoides)(1992) Kreger, Michael Douglas; Mench, Joy A.; Poultry Science; Digital Repository at the University of Maryland; University of Maryland (College Park, Md)Reptiles are handled during transport, veterinary care, education programs, and as companion animals. This study investigated corticosterone levels (CS), heterophil/lymphocyte ratio (H/L), and behavioral responses to routine handling in the ball python (Python regius) (n=4) and the blue-tongued skink (Tiliqua scincoides) (n=3). We validated the RSL I125 Corticosterone Kit for rodents for parallelism and recovery, and found this to be a precise and highly specific means of CS measurement in reptiles. To determine the optimal blood sampling time, animals were sampled throughout a 24-hour cycle under two different light regimens, one a 12L:12D and one in which a red light was on during the dark period. The diurnal pattern of CS did not differ as a result of light regimen. Python peak CS levels occurred at 2400 hours during the peak locomotor activity period and at 1200 hours when body temperature was highest, while skinks showed no significant CS rhythm. Heterophil/lymphocyte ratio values indicated that cardiac puncture did not cause chronic stress although it may be an acute stressor. Animals were then handled gently, manually, or were container restrained (CR) for 10 minutes. Although skink CS was unaffected by treatment, CR caused an elevated level of CS in pythons which may indicate short-term stress. There were no differences in H/L ratio or changes in activity level in either species. Brief periods of routine handling of the study species in captivity thus did not cause chronic stress as measured by CS, H/L ratio, and activity parameters.