We described microscopic anatomy of male glandular organs in the subterranean species Titanethes albus with SEM and TEM. Males possess paired tubercles equipped with diverse epicuticular formations, sensilla and pores dorsally on the pleon. We present the distribution of three distinct types of male-specific rosette glands in pleon and uropods considering their vital importance for survival of T.albus in caves. Our results show that the glands associated with dorsal tubercles produce proteins which might function as contact pheromones.
COBISS.SI-ID: 2468943
The results of our study revealed that Krupa River and its hinterland are still burden with PCB. The ability of Proteus to survive such a high PCB loading in its environment and especially in its tissues is remarkable. Most fish species demonstrate lethal effects at 10–300 μg g-1 . Although, in general, amphibians have lower sensitivity to PCB compared to other vertebrates, concentrations of PCB measured in Proteus would be sufficient that lead them to serious health problems.
COBISS.SI-ID: 24834855
We tested hypothesis that surface species affect distribution of subterranean species. Contrary to expectations, the competitive exclusion appears to be unlikely, as surface Gammarus fossarum and eutroglophilus Niphargus timavi do not share the same ecological niche. Predation among adults was not detected; however, both species opportunistically prey upon juveniles including conspecifics. Predation and cannibalistic pressure forces juveniles to seek the shelter in tiny voids. This might be a mechanism that spatially limits N. timavi to the upper stretch of the stream.
COBISS.SI-ID: 2365519