Showing 97 results for Type of Study: Original Research Article
Talakadu Siddaraju Jayarajashekara, Pannaga Prasad Ganapathi, Honnagondanahalli Channaveerappa,
Volume 5, Issue 2 (6-2023)
Abstract
In this paper, a structural analysis of the rarely encountered hydrozoan medusa Limnocnida indica Annandale is discussed. This diploblastic, radially symmetrical organism has a body plan typical of hydrozoan medusae. In this study more emphasis was given to observation of the supporting components of its anatomical structures. Detailed observation on the distribution of supportive components including chitin, collagen, and noncellular fibers within the tissue organization has been carried out with the application of different types of staining methods. The neuromuscular arrangement at the rim of the umbrella and basal part of the gastrovascular cavity and the distribution of the neurons in the sub epithelial region of ectoderm have been analyzed both by staining and by scanning electron microscopy studies. Supporting blocks of chitin at the base of tentacles, along with statocysts, and ring-like deposition of chitin and collagen on the tentacles are documented. Distribution of collagen around radial canals in the mesoglea was found to be unique to this species. The mesoglea seems to be a storehouse for the macromolecules chitin and collagen.
Manchiryala Ravikanth, Nagarajan Baskaran,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (10-2023)
Abstract
Gyps species declined rapidly between the late 1990s and early 2000s in southern Asia due to the use of diclofenac and are listed as Critically Endangered species. Long-term data on breeding ecology is essential to understand the population trends of these threatened species. This study assessed the breeding phenology and reproductive performance of two critically endangered Gyps species—Long-billed Gyps indicus (Scopoli) (LBV) and White-rumped Gyps bengalensis (Gmelin) (WRV) vultures—through long-term monitoring at breeding colonies in Kaghaznagar and Sironcha Forest Divisions in the Deccan Plateau of India between 2010 and 2021. LBV began their nest construction and copulation in the second week of October, and ended in the fourth week of November, while the WRV completed the same between the first and second weeks of October. LBV started egg-laying during the first week of December and ended in the first week of January, with a peak during the third week on 14 December, and the mean incubation period was 54±1 days. The WRV completed their egg-laying early, during the second and third weeks of October, and peaked during the second week on 14 October and had a relatively longer incubation of 61±1 days. For LBV, hatching peaked during the first week of February, and the mean nestling period was 103±2 days, while for WRV hatching peaked much earlier, during the third week of December and the mean nestling period was 105±1 days. Overall nest success, breeding success, and productivity estimated based on 159 breeding pairs of LBV observed over 12 years were lower compared to that of 124 breeding pairs of WRV observed over 6-year period. The decline in breeding success of LBV since 2019 is discussed in light of cattle poisoning reported in 2018, and the reopening of the Sirpur paper industry (Kaghaznagar) in 2017 that discharges its hazardous effluent into the Peddavagu stream. Therefore, the present study suggests long-term monitoring of breeding colonies including evaluation of the drivers of population and breeding, molecular and toxicological studies, and implementation of Vulture Safe Zones to save these critically endangered Gyps vultures from local extinction.
Khean Harvey S. Acuevas, Dave P. Buenavista,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (10-2023)
Abstract
The Center for Ecological Development and Recreation (CEDAR) is an ecotourism site comprised of natural and human-modified ecosystems in Bukidnon, Philippines. With very little existing research on the influence of human-modified ecosystems on amphibian assemblages in the Philippines, we designed this study to evaluate amphibian assemblages in CEDAR. Using a combination of transects sampling, active searching, and auditory samplings, amphibian samplings were conducted at three sites: a human-modified area, a dipterocarp forest, and the Dila River System. A total of 425 individuals of 18 species from 13 genera and 7 families were documented. The family Ceratobatrachidae was the most represented group, with four species. Out of 18 species, 14 (78%) were Philippine endemics, indicating a high rate of amphibian endemism at CEDAR. In terms of IUCN conservation status, 14 out of 18 species were classified as Least Concern and two as Near Threatened, while two have undetermined conservation status. The Shannon-Weiner and Gini-Simpsons Diversity values revealed that the Human-modified area had the highest diversity compared to the Dila River System and dipterocarp forest. Surprisingly, the human-modified area in CEDAR was found to be the habitat of many anuran species, in particular, a number of generalist species, whilst some specialist species were restricted to natural habitats like the dipterocarp forest and Dila River System. The high amphibian diversity in the human-modified area requires further field studies; hence, additional amphibian samplings are recommended. Long-term wildlife evaluation and monitoring should be carried-out in CEDAR to facilitate the conservation of amphibian populations and their natural habitats in this area.
Rajesh Lenka,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (10-2023)
Abstract
The present study was undertaken from November 2020 to October 2021 to understand the bird species diversity, and variation in their seasonality, near the National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) area of Talcher located in Angul district of Odisha state in India. The identified birds included 668 individuals of 90 species (including three near-threatened species) belonging to 18 orders, 41 families and 75 genera. As per the study, Passeriformes is found to be most dominant with 34 species (38% of total bird species). Considering the feeding guilds of birds, insectivore bird species were found in higher number (32 species) followed by carnivores (16 species), and then omnivores and frugivores (10 species each). It was found that the winter season was the most species rich (70 species, 328 individuals), and the monsoon season the least (43 species, 127 individuals). The Shannon-Wiener index (H'= 3.48) was also found to be high in winter season but the evenness index (E= 0.65) was found to be higher in monsoon season. The cluster analysis showed that the bird composition of the summer season strongly correlates with bird composition of the winter and monsoon seasons, but the bird composition of the monsoon season is not significantly correlated with bird composition of the winter season. The results from the study can act as the baseline for further research on birds in the Angul district of Odisha.
Samuel Mbungu Ndamba, Albert Maba Ngaka, Serge Nzinga, Jérémie Sambu Banganga, Hong-Yu Lai, Koen van Waerebeek,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (10-2023)
Abstract
The first inventory of cetacean diversity in coastal waters of the Congo River Estuary, Democratic Republic of the Congo, was obtained between May 2021 and April 2022, through incidental sightings (n=17) reported mainly by artisanal fishers and direct observations of bycatches at fish landing sites. Confirmed records include five odontocete species: four Delphinidae: Delphinus capensis Gray, Pseudorca crassidens (Owen), Stenella frontalis (G. Cuvier), Tursiops truncatus (Montagu); one Kogiidae: Kogia sima (Owen). There was one mysticete, Balaenopteridae: Megaptera novaeangliae (Borowski). Of six small cetaceans documented landed for use as aquatic bushmeat, four (66.7%) were T. truncatus. Megaptera novaeangliae was the most frequently sighted cetacean (47.1% of reported sightings), registered between 17 May–3 September 2021, with a seasonality (austral winter) consistent with the SE Atlantic breeding stock (‘B-Stock’). All information was collected by locals, the at-sea sightings by trained fishermen in a citizen science framework. The main benefits included a welcome marine conservation educational component, and low-cost, opportunistic fishing boat use. Shortfalls comprised a deficiency in scientific detail and effort quantification, occasional data loss and lack of biological sampling. However, in a remote coastal region like the DRC’s Congo River estuary, where marine mammals have never before been studied, local citizen science methodology proved effective and, after adjustments, should be scaled-up.
Ashish Subedi, Rajeev Joshi, Santosh Ghimire, Sewak Bhatta, Kripa Pokhrel,
Volume 5, Issue 3 (10-2023)
Abstract
The wild water buffalo-WWB (Bubalus arnee) holds a significant ecological role within Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, Nepal. Despite its importance, there has been a lack of comprehensive research addressing its distribution, habitat suitability, and interaction with domestic cattle. To address these gaps, this study was undertaken with the primary objectives of elucidating the population distribution of B. arnee within the reserve, mapping its habitat suitability, and evaluating the interplay between B. arnee and domestic cattle in the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve. The study area was subdivided into cells to gather data on B. arnee presence using various indicators such as sightings, dung, and footprints. Interaction between B. arnee and domestic cattle was assessed based on their spatial overlap within and outside a 500-meter radius from observation points. Employing the MaxEnt algorithm, distribution data of B. arnee and climatic variables including maximum and minimum temperatures, mean temperature, and rainfall were analyzed, while land use and cover maps were acquired from the Department of Survey for further analysis. Results revealed a concentration of B. arnee in the southwest region of the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, with a total of 405 individuals recorded, comprising 26 calves, 6 sub-adults, and 373 adults. The distribution pattern displayed a prevalence of small-sized herds (1–15 individuals) followed by medium-sized (15–29 individuals) and large-sized (29+ individuals) herds. Notably, B. arnee presence was most prominent in grassland areas (approximately 49% of observations), while forested regions accounted for the lowest presence (approximately 10% of observations). Interestingly, domestic buffalo were observed near B. arnee only in a single cell in the southwest section of the study area, while in the eastern cells of the reserve, overlaps between domestic cows and B. arnee occurred within a 500-meter radius. Our study indicated a suitability index greater than or equal to 0.5876, encompassing only about 14% of the reserve's total area. The jackknife test highlighted the influential environmental variables in the model, with annual precipitation contributing around 60.8% and the maximum temperature of the warmest month contributing about 39.20% in determining the distribution of B. arnee. The results underscored the significance of annual precipitation, with a regularized training gain of 0.50, compared to 0.32 for the maximum temperature of the warmest month. In conclusion, this study sheds light on the distribution, habitat suitability, and interaction dynamics of B. arnee within the Koshi Tappu Wildlife Reserve, offering valuable insights for informed wildlife management and conservation strategies.
Hyder Ali Rather, Varsha Gautam,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Avifauna is an important constituent, as well as an important link in the food chain, of every ecosystem. Birds are regarded as important biological indicators since they can live in a variety of settings and are environmentally adaptive. Wetlands are important bird habitats and birds use them for breeding, nesting and rearing young. Upper Lake is a tropical wetland in Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh, and harbors rich biodiversity. This study documents the avifaunal diversity around Upper Lake, Bhopal over a period of four successive years (2018–2021). To assess bird diversity, the point-count method was used but opportunistic spotting was also included. During the survey, a total of 158 avian species, belonging to 18 orders, 52 families and 115 genera were recorded. Out of 18 orders, Passeriformes had the highest avian species richness (67 species). At the family level, Muscicapidae and Anatidae were the most dominant families with 13 species each. The results, derived from various diversity indices (Shannon-Weiner, Margalef and Pielou), suggest that Upper Lake, Bhopal supports rich avifaunal diversity. However, certain anthropogenic threats pose serious threats to the avifaunal diversity. Habitat destruction and degradation pose the most significant threat With hunting of various migratory water birds and threatened species as a growing concern. Therefore, to ensure continued diversity within the region, it is recommended that these anthropogenic activities be regularly monitored and kept to a minimum.
Farangis Ghasemi, Mohammad Miri,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
This study aimed to document the significance of parasites in transmitting zoonotic pathogens from bats to domestic animals and humans. To achieve this, we performed an examination of ten large caves in Fars Province (Iran), which served as bat roosts. Bats were captured using a mist net and identified based on morphological characteristics. The ectoparasites were collected using brushes and preserved in separate vials containing 70% ethyl alcohol. Bats were released after collecting all ectoparasites from their bodies, except 3 bats. The collected ectoparasites were then prepared as slides and identified using a taxonomic key. The results revealed that out of 66 bats examined, 56 individuals were infested by a total of 113 ectoparasites. These included bat flies [Nycteribia kolenatii (22.1%), Paratrichobius sp. (10.6%) and Penicillidia sp. (11.5%)], mites [Macronyssus flavus (55.0%)], and ticks [Ixodes sp. (0.8%)]. Among the bat species, Myotis blythii and Rousettus aegyptiacus exhibited the highest levels of ectoparasite infestation. Three bats from different species were transferred to the lab, dissected, and their feces were centrifuged using the Formalin Detergent method. Several worms, including nematodes [Seuratum sp] and Cestoda [Hymenolepis rhinopomae], were isolated from their intestines and feces. The identified specimens were properly deposited in the Iranian National Parasitology Museum (University of Tehran). Some of these findings represent new records in Iran. The results indicate a high infestation rate with bat flies showing a wide distribution and high density in the research region. Therefore, further research is recommended to expand our knowledge of bat parasites.
Naeim Moradi, Soheila Shafiei Bafti, Mohammad Ebrahim Sehhatisabet, Behzad Zadhoush, Eskandar Rastegar-Pouyani,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
The genus Lytorhynchus, spanning from the Sahara’s western fringes to the Middle East, eastern Pakistan, and northwestern India, has seen numerous species and subspecies classifications over the years. Many of these have been deemed synonymous due to overlapping morphological traits, a problem compounded by the absence of a comprehensive phylogenetic study. The taxa residing in Iran exhibit morphological variations attributable to their broad distribution and disjunct populations. Of the seven recognized species, three have been confirmed in Iran, although some populations display pholidosis distinct from initial descriptions. Species identification has also been fraught with ambiguities. This study aims to elucidate the diagnostic characteristics of taxa and furnish an updated identification key by revisiting past studies and examining new voucher specimens. The biogeography of Iranian taxa is also explored.
Kumari Krishnanagara Shraddha, Rajesh Puttaswamaiah, Chetan Nag Krishnaswamy Sudarshan,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Much is known about bats from other parts of the globe regarding factors such as homogeneity and heterogeneity of habitats, prey abundance influencing the predator-prey relationship, etc. Sadly, minuscule literature on bat ecology is available for India. The current study investigated diet of the Kolar leaf-nosed bat Hipposideros hypophyllus, a Critically Endangered (CR) insectivorous bat in IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, known only from a single cave where it shares its roosting site with congeneric species, namely Durgadas’s leaf-nosed bat H. durgadasi Khajuria and Schneider’s leaf-nosed bat H. speoris (Schneider), which are Vulnerable (VU) and Least Concerned (LC), respectively. Because Hipposideros hypophyllus is on the brink of extinction with no baseline ecological data available, the study analyzed the dietary compositions of the species. It relied on the morphological cataloguing of post-digested prey fragments in fecal pellets of the species and its congeners. Fresh fecal pellets of all three species of Hipposideros were analyzed to understand morphological differences and prey composition at the only known site for H. hypophyllus, Hanumanahalli village, Kolar district, India, between November 2022 to February 2023. A total of 29,793 prey remnants were examined from all three species belonging to 11 insect orders (Blattodea, Coleoptera, Mantodea, Diptera, Hemiptera, Hymenoptera, Lepidoptera, Neuroptera, Odonata, Orthoptera, and Thysanoptera). All three species of Hipposideros fed mainly on Coleoptera, followed by Diptera and Lepidoptera, showing a strong overlap in their prey composition. Our results warrant a long-term study across seasons and identifying prey to the species level which can provide more detailed understanding and lead to the conservation of Hipposideros hypophyllus, H. durgadasi, and H. speoris.
Anisha Parajuli, Chitra Rekha Basyal, Manoj Baral, Hari Adhikari, Shailendra Kumar Yadav, Janga Bdr. Basnet, Sachin Timilsina,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Human-wildlife conflicts (HWC) are common in locations where human settlements and wildlife ecosystems intersect. Conflict between people and wildlife is a significant conservation issue that is challenging to resolve. Therefore, this research aims to reveal the trends, status, and patterns of HWC in the Buffer Zone (BZ) of Chitwan National Park (CNP) from July 2012 to July 2021. Primary data were collected through household surveys, key informant interviews (KIIs), direct observation, and secondary data from park offices, the Buffer Zone User Committee (BZUC), and institutions through reports, documents, and booklets. Our study shows crop raiding was the most common and notable problem, followed by livestock depredation, with 4416 documented cases. According to the report, elephants are the biggest conflict-causing species, accounting for 37.86% of overall losses. HWC occurrences peaked in 2018, accounting for 23.41% of total incidents from July 2012 to July 2021. During the research period, victims of HWC received compensation totaling ~0.805 million US dollars (106641196.00 Nepalese rupees). Autumn is identified as the greatest season for HWC, owing to paddy harvesting, which draws animals. Most people believe that the population density of wildlife increases in the park due to positive human participation. By adopting a participatory management approach to conservation, the park has the potential to increase the number of locals who benefit from it significantly.
Laxmi Sagar, Dhan Bdr Gurung, Karma Wangchuk, Karma L. Wangmo, Rinchen Dorji, Tshering Zangmo, Rupesh Subedi,
Volume 5, Issue 4 (10-2023)
Abstract
Cyprinidae (Teleostei: Cypriniformes) is the predominate family among Bhutan's freshwater fishes, yet significant gaps exist in the knowledge of their diversity and assemblage. Cyprinids were sampled from 54 plots across four river basins (Aiechhu, Jaldakachhu, Mangdechhu, and Punatsangchhu) using systematic sampling at an interval of 5 km. A total of 850 individuals belonging to 22 species and 13 genera were recorded. Aiechhu had the highest diversity and evenness (H’= 1.66±0.28, J’= 0.95±0.03), followed by Punatsangchhu (H’= 1.58±0.34, J’= 0.94±0.04). Meanwhile, Jaldakachhu and Mangdechhu exhibited the lowest diversity and evenness (H’= 0.90±0.66, J’= 0.84±0.54 and H’= 0.54±0.70, J’= 0.38±0.49, respectively). There was a significant difference in diversity among river basins (χ2 (3)= 20.98, p < 0.001) with specific variation between Mangdechhu and Punatsangchhu (Z= 3.80, p= 0.00), Mangdechhu and Aiechhu (Z= 3.35, p= 0.01), and Jaldakachhu and Punatsangchhu (Z= 2.83, p= 0.03). Canonical correspondence analysis indicated that cyprinid assemblage was significantly correlated with environmental variables (r= 0.94, p= 0.001 in axis 1 and r= 0.82, p= 0.001 in axis 2) explaining 77% of variance. Axis 1 was positively correlated with temperature (r= 0.92), total dissolved solids (r= 0.53), conductivity (r= 0.51), and salinity (r= 0.39) and negatively correlated with elevation (r= −0.69). Axis 2 was negatively correlated with total hardness (r= −0.82) and dissolved oxygen (r= −0.65). Cluster analysis identified three clusters based on dominant species. Further studies exploring other river basins of Bhutan are needed to better understand the ecological dynamics of cyprinids in Bhutan.
Abdullah Atabey, Recep Karakaş,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Birds have a special importance in the exceptionally rich biodiversity of Türkiye; nevertheless, the ornithological importance of some parts of the country is inadequately known. The bird diversity of Mount Zülküf (MZ) was studied together with recommendations for conservation proposals. In total, 26 field surveys were conducted on MZ, which is located 6 km from Ergani district of Diyarbakır province, south-eastern Türkiye. During the field observations, transect line and point count methodologies were used, accompanied by the use of standard ornithological equipment, between April 2017 and April 2018. It was aimed at determining the seasonal status, breeding status, and threatened categories of bird species, together with suggesting conservation proposals. Within the scope of the studies conducted in the limited area over one year, 73 bird species, belonging to 25 families and nine orders were determined. Among the bird species identified, 19 are possible, 16 are probable, and 14 are certainly breeding species for the area; which means that 67% of them have breeding potential in the study area. Among the recorded bird species, there is one globally threatened species, while seven are threatened within Türkiye with many more least concern or data deficient species. Recording the bird diversity of the mountain, together with the existing cultural importance of the area in terms of religious tourism, will help to bring to light the ecotourism potential of the area, and could be used for monitoring the area for conservation plans. Raising awareness of the region's bird diversity, among the local people, will offer nature-based tourism opportunities via ornithology in the region.
Marina Armel À Mmira Akohogni, Evrard Kouopestchop Medjo, Boddis Tsiguia Zebaze, Alexia Kevine Noubissi Chiassa, Pamela Cynthia Mepa Tchiegang, Claudine Tekounegning Tiogué, Dorothy Engwali Fon,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
This study was carried out between October 2020 and October 2021 with the aim of determining sustainable management options and nutrition for the domestication of Mormyridae fish species living in the Sanaga River in central Cameroon. For this purpose, 451 specimens collected from local fishermen were identified and grouped into four genera and seven species, constituting 20.84% Campylomormyrus phantasticus (Pellegrin), 5.32% Hippopotamyrus castor (Pappenheim), 24.61% Mormyrops anguilloides (Linnaeus), 18.63% Mormyrops caballus (Pellegrin), 4.66% Mormyrops zanclirostris (Günther, 1867), 15.52% Mormyrus rume (Valenciennes), and 10.42% Mormyrus tapirus (Pappenheim). Fish were measured, and parameters were obtained after dissection using intestinal morphometric characteristics and stomach content analysis methods. The emptiness coefficient varied from 0% (Hippopotamyrus castor and Mormyrops zanclirostris) to 26.66% (Mormyrus rume). The relative mass of the intestine was low in all studied species; the intestinal coefficient and the Zihler index of all these species are within the range of carnivorous species. Analysis of stomach contents revealed a broad food spectrum containing twelve categories of prey. Insects, macrophytes and larval insect shelters were the preferred foods of Mormyrops anguilloides, Mormyrops caballus and Mormyrops zanclirostris, while insect larvae and larval shelters were the preferred prey for other species. Site and season had little effect on the categories of prey consumed by these species.
. Joseliph Abin, Padayatty Davis Samson,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Identification and characterisation of urban habitats and ascertaining their species associations are essential for the conservation and management of biodiversity in urban landscapes. The study attempts to identify, describe and categorise potential urban habitats in Kochi city, Kerala, India, and to explore the association of bird faunal assemblages within each of the habitats. The study was conducted from June 2018 to May 2020. The Urban Habitat Categories were identified, described and categorised as per the Urban Habitats Biodiversity Assessment (UrHBA) procedure and a sample biotope map was prepared. The habitat association of bird species was determined from each of the identified Urban Habitat Category by evaluating the species composition of each habitat. Species sharing between the identified habitats was also examined. Critical habitats of conservation concern were identified, and their specific features were ascertained. A total of 38 Urban Habitat Categories were characterised from the landscape of Kochi City with 162 species of birds to be found associated within the urban habitats. The wide variety of urban habitats provide excellent dwellings for a large number of birds including several threatened and migratory species. Out of the five major urban habitat categories, most of the species utilise Sparsely vegetated - Life form categories. Among the 38 urban habitats, Forest phanerophytes supports greater numbers of bird species. Vegetation structure is an important factor that determines bird diversity of the urban habitats. Together with the well-vegetated habitats, sparsely vegetated, non-vegetated and artificial built habitats also significantly contribute to biodiversity of urban centres. The diverse urban habitats and the associated bird species identified from Kochi city emphasise that modified urban landscapes are equally potent as natural landscapes in upholding diverse life forms. The study highlights the necessity of maintaining habitat complexity in urban landscapes for sustainable conservation of urban biodiversity. The baseline data on urban habitats and their species association will serve as a planning tool for safeguarding the critical habitats.
Raju Vyas, Devendra Chauhan, Pranav Vaghashiya, Harshil Patel,
Volume 6, Issue 1 (3-2024)
Abstract
Mugger Crocodiles (Crocodylus palustris) are apex predators of freshwater aquatic ecosystems throughout South Asia whose natural history and ecology are incompletely known. We present some noteworthy observations on feeding behavior, hunting strategy, and diet of the species based on seven observations during the last four years as part of a long-term monitoring study in Junagadh, Gujarat, India. We found Muggers of this region feeding on the domestic dog (Canis familiaris), Indian rock python (Python molurus), Indian flap-shelled turtle (Lissemys punctata), several species of fishes, as well as cannibalism events. Moreover, we review and discuss some published observations of the species.
Jannat Un Naim Tuli, Md. Manzoorul Kibria, Afia Khanam Beli, Shah Mohammad Kaisar, Jadab Kumar Biswas,
Volume 6, Issue 2 (6-2024)
Abstract
We conducted a study on the morphology of the forelimb long bones and ribs in the Ganges River dolphin, Platanista gangetica (Lebeck, 1801) using traditional morphometric methods. A total of 17 morphometric measurements of six specimens of P. gangetica were taken. The humerus was the longest bone in the forelimb morphology, with its length ranging from 41.75 to 52.78 mm (mean: 45.57, SD: ± 5.07) in juveniles/subadults and 60.56 to 90.92 mm (mean: 76.75, SD: ± 22.90) in adults. The length of the scapula was 85.84 to 135.46 mm (mean: 102.18, SD: ± 23.00) in juveniles/subadults and 171.79 to 251.95 mm (mean: 211.87, SD: ± 56.68) in adults. Of 10 ribs, the sixth rib was the longest (mean: 133.55, SD: ± 24.12) in juveniles/subadults and the seventh (mean: 240.62, SD: ± 54.24) in adults. All measurements (except the two variables of the scapula) were significantly correlated (P < 0.05) with specific bone length. The allometric coefficients of all correlated variables of the humerus, radius, ulna, scapula, and the depths of ribs exhibited isometry against the length of the particular bone, respectively. We discussed the morphological patterns of the forelimb long bones and ribs in P. gangetica along with the structural and functional aspects of the aquatic lifestyles.
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