Research Perspective on Biological Science Vol. 3

Chicken meat has several advantages over red meat, especially its nutrient content. The present study was conducted on the gastrocnemius muscle of 36 apparently healthy Chabro chickens. 18 males and 18 females were divided into three age groups, viz, Group I (6 weeks), Group II (8 weeks) and Group III (10 weeks). Anatomically, the gastrocnemius muscle forms the drumstick part in poultry. In the intermyofiber space, large irregular-shaped fibroblasts with one or more darkly stained heterochromatic nuclei and cytoplasmic projections extending around the muscle fibres, blood capillaries with nucleated RBCs and oval-shaped myosatellite cells with large spindle-shaped nuclei were observed. In female birds, the mean muscular tissue area per cent increased continuously with age. In male birds, the mean fascicular diameter of muscle increased continuously with age. In conclusion, the inter-myofiber distance was greater in female birds. The mean diameter, cross-sectional area of myofibers, fascicular diameter and area of fascicle of muscle increased with age in both sexes.

Background: The degradation of lakes due to anthropogenic activities poses significant threats to biodiversity and ecosystem health. Bangalore City in Karnataka is known for its serene environment, landscapes, and IT development. The continuous inflow of people from various states and increased anthropogenic activities have caused stress to lake ecosystems and influenced the seasons.

Aim: The present research investigates the seasonal and spatial variations in the limnological factors of Ullal Lake in Bangalore North to identify environmental stressors and assess its ecological health.

Materials and Methods: Limnological assessments were conducted at Ullal Lake between June 2022 and July 2023, aligning with the seasonal patterns of the Indian subcontinent. Composite water samples were collected from three sampling stations: an open surface, a deposit, and an inlet. These samples were analysed for physicochemical factors, including pH, temperature, conductivity, humidity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, chemical oxygen demand, hardness, alkalinity, and the most probable number. Seasonal patterns and developmental stages in Danio rerio were also examined to evaluate the environmental stress. The physical, chemical and biological parameters analysed from the three sampling stations underwent descriptive statistics, the Shapiro-Wilk test and the one-way ANOVA, the Kruskal-Wallis test.

Results: Significant fluctuations were observed in the physical parameters. Oxygen-dependent variables also varied, including, hardness, alkalinity, and microbial load. Seasonal patterns showed that environmental factors like temperature, humidity, and biological activity influenced water quality. Specifically, pH and conductivity were most influenced during spring, while autumn significantly affected dissolved oxygen and microbial load. Summer exhibited elevated alkalinity and turbidity. Developmental stages in Danio rerio were unaffected in the open surface and inlet stations, but decreased heart rate indicated environmental stress at the deposit and inlet stations.

Conclusion: The open surface station demonstrated superior water quality compared to the other two stations. The study highlights the importance of seasonal dynamics in influencing limnological parameters and the ecological health of Ullal Lake. It recommends addressing seasonal variations, continuous monitoring, and the implementation of sustainable management practices for the conservation and sustainability of these wetlands. The limited number of sampling stations and the one-year study period may be limitations of the current investigation. Future studies could address these by including more sampling stations and extending the study period.

This study focuses on optimising the sensory and nutritional quality of saka saka, a traditional dish made from cassava leaves, by evaluating the effects of key ingredient combinations. The research specifically investigates the influence of garlic, onion, sugar, and Maggi broth on the dish’s colour, odour, and taste. Using a simplex centroid mixture design, the optimal formulation was determined through sensory evaluations conducted by a panel of 8 to 10 non-experienced assessors. The study also included physicochemical analyses to assess moisture, ash, lipid content, and essential mineral composition (calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and iron).

The findings indicate that garlic significantly enhances the sensory attributes of saka saka, particularly taste, with an optimal formulation consisting of 81% garlic and 19% onion. The combination of sugar and Maggi broth was also found to influence taste but had a lesser impact on colour and odour. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA and regression modelling using Minitab 17.3.1, confirmed the reliability of the optimised formulation, which was well accepted by assessors. Furthermore, the final product was found to be rich in protein and essential minerals, reinforcing its nutritional benefits.

This research highlights the potential of controlled ingredient combinations to improve both the sensory appeal and nutritional value of saka saka, contributing to food security and dietary diversity, particularly in regions where cassava leaves are a staple.

The preorbital gland is a paired exocrine gland, appearing as a slit-shaped cavity located anterior to the eye. It is found in many ungulates, particularly in the families Bovidae, Cervidae, and various antelope species.

Scent marking using the preorbital gland in the Banbakri antelope, also known as the white-footed antelope (Boselaphus tragocamelus), was studied at the Haryana Agriculture Farm, VKS College of Agriculture, Dumraon. This study investigated the behaviour of Banbakri antelopes concerning preorbital gland opening under various conditions, including stress, starvation, and maturity. The research aimed to assess this behaviour as part of a broader investigation into the phenotypic and behavioural characteristics of Banbakri/Nilgai to enhance their well-being and improve resource management. The research is important because it will expand the understanding of this elegant species' behaviour and the functional role of its preorbital gland. Its potential applications in antimicrobial drug development will be explored as well.

The behaviour of male and female Banbakri was observed in captivity. During winter, the Banbakri was kept indoors in a 10x20 feet room. Occasionally, it was released into a large outdoor enclosure during summer, winter, and rainy seasons. The enclosure was surrounded by wire fencing approximately 200 by 150 feet (LxW) and 6 feet in height. The enclosure had a savanna.

In mature Banbakri antelopes, the preorbital glands measured approximately 2.1 cm in length and 1.0 cm in width. These exocrine glands, appearing as trench-like slits of dark blue to black coloration, were located beneath the eyes. Under free-roaming conditions, both male and female B. tragocamelus rarely exhibited preorbital gland opening. However, the gland was observed to open under stress, particularly when the animal was restrained with a halter for the first time, either at night or occasionally during the day. Preorbital gland opening was also noted during maturity, hunger, and stressful conditions. The findings suggest that this behaviour may serve as a key indicator for differentiating between playful, courtship, and aggressive social behaviours, particularly in stressful situations or stages of maturity. Additionally, the gland may secrete pheromonal substances that facilitate olfactory communication.

It can also be said that preorbital gland opening may be an important behavioural indicator of the real maturity of the individual in the sexual context and also in stressful conditions.

To the best of our knowledge, no prior studies have reported the opening of the preorbital gland in Banbakri antelopes (B. tragocamelus). This study presents the first recorded observation of this behaviour in captive white-footed antelopes, contributing novel insights into their behavioural ecology.

Thus, it can be concluded that this gland opens in Banbakri antelopes under stress, starvation, or sexual maturity contexts, and may serve as an essential behavioural indicator. This could help distinguish between playful, courtship, aggressive, social status, and other behaviours to communicate with other members of Banbakri (Boselaphus tragocamelus).

Proximate analysis focuses on the nutritional composition to assess their potential as a sustainable food source. The analysis quantifies the protein, carbohydrate, fat, ash, and moisture content of green mussels, providing insights into their dietary value and implications for aquaculture. This study analyses the proximate composition of green-lipped mussel, Perna Viridis (Linnaeus, 1758), from Malad Creek, Mumbai, India. Mussels, P. viridis, were purchased from the local fish market near Malad Creek. Protein, Carbohydrates, Fats, ash, and moisture content were determined for triplicate proximate analysis. The green mussels exhibited a high protein content of 15.97 ± 0.0550 mg/mL, indicating their substantial contribution to dietary protein intake. Carbohydrate content was measured at 0.9723 ± 0.07559 mg/mL, reflecting a low carbohydrate profile. The fat content was found to be 2.34 ± 0.123 mg/mL, highlighting the mussels' low-fat nature, while the ash content, which represents the mineral composition, was 2.94 ± 0.6381%. Moisture content was notably high at 84.43 ± 1.454%, characteristic of aquatic organisms. These findings underscore the green mussels' nutritional density, with a significant proportion of their composition dedicated to protein and minimal levels of fats and carbohydrates. The results suggest that green mussels are a nutrient-dense, high-protein and low-fat food source with potential for inclusion in diets, both for human consumption and aquaculture feed formulations.

Herbal medications still hold a significant place in local communities, particularly among small farm holders, mostly in resource-constrained areas. While technological advancements in animal medication rise and dominate these days, some associated issues, such as too much reliance on pharmaceuticals, may incubate unwanted drawbacks, including drug resistance and residuals in animal by-products. Thus, holistic treatment approaches to animals persist and are maintained, comprising the traditional uses of herbal plants, which have remained sustainable through the years.  This research aspires to bridge the gap between folklore and scientifically proven treatments, such as those synthetically prepared dewormers for commercialisation. This study assessed, via in vitro and in vivo assays, the anthelmintic activity of Chrysophyllum cainito and Psidium guajava, which are among the collection of documented flora in the Philippines utilised by locals in their ethno-veterinary medicine practices. In vitro anthelmintic  evaluation displayed time-dependent and concentration-dependent efficacies. Chrysophyllum cainito bark ethanolic extract (60mg/ml) recorded 94.65% egg-killing activity, whereas Psidium guajava bark ethanolic extract was 92.64% effective at 30mg/ml and 96.28% effective at 60mg/ml. The worm-killing activity of the former at 60mg/kg yielded 88.88%, while the latter elicited 88.88% and 94.44% mortalities to worms at 30mg/ml and 60mg/ml, respectively. Probit analysis on the lethal concentration (LC50) against eggs and worms was conducted at different magnitudes for both plants, inferring substantial anthelmintic action. The in vivo evaluation through faecal egg count reduction (FECR) rate indicates that both plants can effectively inhibit and kill gastrointestinal nematodes, as substantiated by the significant ovicidal and wormicidal activities. The generated findings herein can contribute to the broader field of sustainable animal health practices and advocacies as we rally against current pressing issues relating to food safety and public health.

Freshwater fishes are one of the most threatened taxonomic groups that are due to degradation and defragmentation of habitats, introduction of exotic species, pollution, and global climate change. Lakshmipuram Lake, a tropical freshwater lake situated in India, plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance and sustaining local livelihoods. The present study investigates the ichthyofaunal diversity and water quality of Lakshmipuram Lake, located in the Anakapalli District of Andhra Pradesh, India, over a one-year period from January 2024 to December 2024. A total of 47 fish species were recorded from various sampling sites across the lake. Freshly collected specimens were cleansed, photographed, and preserved in 9–10% formalin solution, followed by identification through classical taxonomic techniques. The ichthyofauna comprised 12 different orders, among which Cypriniformes was the most dominant with 18 species (37%), followed by Siluriformes (10 species, 21%), Perciformes (3 species, 4%), and other minor orders such as Channiformes, Cichliformes, Anguilliformes (each 3 species, 6%), and so on. Regarding the population status, 11 species (23%) were categorised as abundant, 25 species (53%) as common, 4 species (8%) as moderate, and 7 species (14%) as rare. Based on the IUCN Red List (2024), 36 species (77%) were classified as Least Concern (LC), 8 species (16%) as Near Threatened (NT), 2 species (4%) as Not Evaluated (NE), and 1 species (2%) as Data Deficient (DD). In addition to biological assessment, 12 key physico-chemical parameters were analysed—including temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, BOD, COD, turbidity, total dissolved solids, electrical conductivity, nitrate, phosphate, hardness, and alkalinity—to evaluate the water quality and its influence on fish diversity. Biodiversity indices were also calculated to quantify species diversity and distribution. The Species Richness was notable with 47 species, while the Shannon-Wiener Diversity Index averaged 2.765, indicating high species diversity. Pielou’s Evenness Index averaged 0.769, reflecting a high level of evenness in species distribution across sites. Lakshmipuram Lake is a biologically rich and ecologically important freshwater habitat, supporting a diverse and balanced fish community. The good water quality and high diversity indices emphasise the lake’s potential as a sustainable aquatic ecosystem.

Parasites can be found in a wide variety of animal species. They are more numerous than free-living creatures and can be found in every animal phylum, from protists to chordates. This study evaluates the impact of parasitic infections on the health and viability of culturable freshwater fish. In grouper aquaculture, a diverse range of parasitic organisms has been documented to cause substantial issues. Protozoans, particularly ciliates, are the primary source of parasitic illnesses in groupers in the hatchery and nursery phases. Grouper fries are subjected to handling and travel stress when they are transferred to grow-out facilities. Ciliated protozoans, skin, and gill monogeneans and caligid copepods are all common parasites carried by these fish. Protozoans, monogeneans, didymozoid digeneans, nematodes, caligid copepods, isopods and leeches are among the primary parasites of cultivated groupers discussed in this review paper. Important management implications for the preservation of freshwater fishes and their natural parasites have also been brought to light by an analysis of the anticipated consequences of climate change on intermittent rivers.

Fishes are the main source of animal protein for the human diet. Fish is one of the demanding foods in the world. It plays a vital role in a nutritional diet. Quality of fish depends on the available nutritional components, mainly including Protein, carbohydrates lipids, Vitamins, and Fatty acids. Nutritional values of the cooked food may be minimised due to cooking practices. Hence, the present investigation is undertaken with the objective of studying nutritional value before and after cooking, to recommend the best cooking method for the selected fish species. This study was performed to investigate the effect of different cooking methods on the Nutrition of Nemacheilus botia. Nemacheilus botia is an important local commercial fish species, which is appreciated not only because of their small size, highly valuable but also their boneless flesh with excellent quality and taste. Selected fish species were collected from the river located in Chandwad. Uncooked Fresh Fish, Boiled Fish, Fried Fish, Roasted Fish and Steamed Fish are the different cooking treatments considered to fulfil the objective of the study. The nutrient contents are changed due to the application of different cooking treatments, losses of nutrients take place and retention of some nutrients, like protein, also occurs. Different cooking methods are affecting the quantity of total protein. Lipid content is found to be increased in all cooking methods except the Boiled method. This study also showed that fat and carbohydrate content were significantly changed by four cooking methods.

This article presents an overview of the ecology, adaptation and control of mosquito-borne diseases, including interactions between biological evolution, environment and human activities. The review article was based on a narrative review method, selecting interdisciplinary research from the fields of entomology, epidemiology, environmental science and public health. A comprehensive search was conducted through the PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases to obtain peer-reviewed articles and official reports of health agencies from 2000 to 2025. The article also extracts the significance of integrated vector management (IVM) strategies that combine traditional and innovative approaches, including genetic control technologies, to effectively combat the growing threat of vector-borne diseases. The article concludes that the findings are a constant reminder of the need to continue investing in research and community engagement to improve disease prevention, especially in the most affected regions. By leveraging technology innovations and interdisciplinary research, the article also aims to inform future strategies for sustainable mosquito control and disease management.