ZOOLOGY (SHORT NOTES) 2023-24

2ND SEMESTER

UNIT 1: PARASITOLOGY
1. Introduction to animal associations:

 Parasitology is the study of organisms that live in or on another organism (host) and
derive nutrients from them.
 Animal associations can be categorized into three types: parasitism, commensalism, and
mutualism.
 Parasitism is a relationship where one organism (parasite) benefits at the expense of the
other organism (host).
 Parasites can be ectoparasites (live on the host's body) or endoparasites (live inside the
host's body).

2. Terms and definitions in parasitology:

 Host: An organism that provides nutrients and shelter to a parasite.

 Parasite: An organism that lives in or on another organism and obtains nutrients from it.
 Definitive host: The host in which the parasite reaches sexual maturity.
 Intermediate host: The host in which the parasite undergoes asexual reproduction or
development.
 Vector: An organism that transmits a parasite from one host to another.
 Reservoir host: A host that carries and spreads a parasite but does not show symptoms
of the disease.

3. Parasitic diseases and their control:

a. Amoebiasis:
 Caused by the protozoan parasite Entamoeba histolytica.
 It is transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food or water.
 Symptoms include diarrhea, abdominal pain, and bloody stools.
 Prevention involves practicing good hygiene, proper sanitation, and avoiding the
consumption of contaminated food and water.

b. Taeniasis:

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 ZOOLOGY (SHORT NOTES) 2023-24
2ND SEMESTER
 Caused by the tapeworms of the genus Taenia, particularly Taenia solium (pork
tapeworm) and Taenia saginata (beef tapeworm).
 Humans become infected by ingesting undercooked or raw infected meat.
 Symptoms may include abdominal discomfort, weight loss, and vitamin deficiencies.
 Control measures include proper cooking of meat, good personal hygiene, and
deworming of infected individuals.

c. Ascariasis:

 Caused by the roundworm Ascaris lumbricoides.

 It is transmitted through the ingestion of soil or food contaminated with parasite eggs.
 Symptoms may include abdominal pain, malnutrition, and intestinal blockage.
 Prevention involves proper sanitation, handwashing, and avoiding the consumption of
contaminated food and water.

4. Zoonosis:

 Zoonosis refers to diseases that can be transmitted from animals to humans.

 Examples of zoonotic diseases include rabies, Lyme disease, and avian influenza.
 Zoonotic diseases can be transmitted through direct contact, ingestion of contaminated
food or water, or through vectors like ticks or mosquitoes.
 Prevention involves proper handling and hygiene practices, vaccination, and control of
animal reservoirs and vectors.

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 ZOOLOGY (SHORT NOTES) 2023-24
2ND SEMESTER

UNIT 2:
1. Wildlife - Terms and Definitions:

 Wildlife: Refers to all non-domesticated plants, animals, and microorganisms that exist
in their natural habitats.
 Biodiversity: The variety and variability of living organisms within a given ecosystem,
including genetic, species, and ecosystem diversity.
 Endangered Species: Species that are at risk of extinction in the near future if protective
measures are not implemented.
 Habitat: The natural environment where an organism or a community of organisms lives,
including the physical and biological factors that influence it.
 Ecosystem: A community of living organisms (plants, animals, and microorganisms)
interacting with their non-living environment.
 Conservation: The sustainable use and management of natural resources to ensure their
long-term survival and to maintain the ecological balance.

2. Importance of Wild Animals in Human Life:

 Ecological Balance: Wild animals play crucial roles in maintaining the balance of
ecosystems by regulating populations of prey and predator species.
 Biodiversity Conservation: Wild animals contribute to the overall biodiversity of our
planet and are essential for the functioning of ecosystems.
 Research and Medicine: Wild animals provide valuable resources for scientific research
and the development of medicines and treatments.
 Cultural Significance: Many wild animals hold cultural and spiritual significance for
different societies and indigenous communities.

3. Anthropogenic Threats to Wildlife Habitats of Jammu and Kashmir:

 Habitat Destruction: Human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and

infrastructure development result in the loss and fragmentation of wildlife habitats.
 Poaching and Illegal Wildlife Trade: The illegal hunting, capturing, and trading of wildlife
for commercial purposes pose significant threats to many species.
 Pollution: Pollution from various sources, including industrial waste, agricultural runoff,
and plastic waste, adversely affects wildlife habitats.

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 ZOOLOGY (SHORT NOTES) 2023-24
2ND SEMESTER
 Climate Change: Global warming and climate change impact wildlife habitats, leading to
shifts in distribution patterns and endangering many species.

4. Importance of National Parks in Education, Economy, and Human Health:

 Education and Research: National parks serve as living laboratories for studying wildlife
and ecosystems, providing valuable educational opportunities and research materials.
 Economic Benefits: National parks attract tourists, creating employment opportunities
and contributing to local economies through tourism and related industries.
 Human Health and Well-being: National parks offer recreational activities and promote
physical and mental well-being, acting as natural havens for relaxation and rejuvenation.

UNIT 3: IMPORTANCE OF INSECTS & FISHES

Topic 1: Beneficial Insects

 Insects play a crucial role in various ecosystems and have numerous benefits for
humans.
 Pollination: Bees and other pollinators help in the fertilization of flowers, which leads to
the production of fruits, vegetables, and seeds.
 Natural Pest Control: Some insects, like ladybugs and praying mantises, act as natural
predators, helping to control populations of harmful pests.
 Decomposition: Certain insects, such as beetles and maggots, aid in the decomposition
of organic matter, contributing to nutrient cycling.
 Silk Production: Silkworms are insects that produce silk, which is widely used in textile
industries.
 Medicinal Purposes: Some insects, like bees and ants, produce substances with
medicinal properties, such as honey and formic acid.

Topic 2: Harmful Insects

 While insects have many benefits, some can be harmful to humans, crops, and the
environment.
 Crop Damage: Insects like locusts, aphids, and caterpillars can cause significant damage
to agricultural crops, leading to economic losses.

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 Disease Carriers: Mosquitoes, ticks, and flies can transmit diseases to humans and
animals, such as malaria, dengue fever, and Lyme disease.
 Structural Damage: Termites and wood borers can damage wooden structures, leading
to costly repairs.
 Allergies and Irritations: Some people may develop allergies or experience skin
irritations due to insect bites or stings.

Topic 3: Fish Resources of Jammu and Kashmir

 Jammu and Kashmir have abundant water bodies, including rivers, lakes, and streams,
which provide a rich habitat for various fish species.
 Popular Fish Species: Some common fish species found in Jammu and Kashmir include
trout, mahseer, carp, catfish, and snow trout.
 Economic Importance: Fishing is an important economic activity in the region, providing
livelihoods to local communities and contributing to the economy.
 Recreational Fishing: The availability of diverse fish species attracts fishing enthusiasts
from different parts of the country and even internationally.
 Conservation Efforts: Several initiatives have been undertaken to conserve fish
populations and their habitats, including the establishment of fish sanctuaries and
breeding centers.

Topic 4: Fish By-Products

 Fish by-products refer to various materials obtained from fish processing that have
commercial value.
 Fish Meal: After extracting fish oil, the remaining parts of the fish are processed into fish
meal, which is used as animal feed for poultry, livestock, and aquaculture.
 Fish Oil: Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids and is used in the production of dietary
supplements, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
 Fish Scales and Skin: Fish scales and skin can be used in the production of gelatin,
collagen, and leather products.
 Fish Silage: Fish silage is a fermented fish product used as a fertilizer in agriculture.
 Fish Gelatin: Fish gelatin, derived from fish skin and bones, is used as a gelling agent in
the food industry.

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