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A phenomenological approach was used to explore the transition experiences of 12 undergraduate Seychellois international students within an Australian University. Interviews were conducted in Creole, the participants' native language, and the data was translated to English, transcribed and thematically analyzed. Cultural distance and perceived discrimination mitigated social interactions and cultural learning. The conclusion suggests we need to focus on teaching and learning rather then university wide supports to develop cultural exchanges and aid international student transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To characterise the diets of pregnant women in the Republic of Seychelles and to determine the contribution of fish to intakes of nutrients important for fetal and neonatal development. Design: Observational, prospective study. Setting: Seychelles Child Development Centre, Mahé, Republic of Seychelles. Subjects and methods: Pregnant women (n 300) were recruited at their first visit to an antenatal clinic. At 28 weeks' gestation subjects completed a 4 d diet diary (n 273) and intakes were analysed using dietary analysis software. Results: Mean (SD) energy intake was 9·0 (2·5) MJ/d and fat intakes were higher than UK recommendations for almost two-thirds of the cohort. Fish consumption was lower than in previous surveys, suggesting a move towards a more Westernised diet. Low intakes of a number of nutrients important during pregnancy for fetal development (Fe, Zn, Se and iodine) were observed. However, women who met the current recommendations for these nutrients consumed significantly more fish than those who did not (97 v. 73 g/d). Conclusions: The present study highlights the importance of fish in the diet of pregnant Seychellois women for ensuring adequate intakes of micronutrients important in fetal development. Dietary patterns in Seychelles, however, are in a state of transition, with a move towards a Western-style diet as evidenced by higher fat and lower fish intakes. If these dietary trends continue and fish consumption declines further, micronutrient status may be compromised. These findings suggest caution in establishing public health policies that promote limitation of fish intake during pregnancy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2002, when Rene was still in power, the UAE donated $50m to help the Seychelles - then facing an acute foreign currency shortage - to import food and other vital goods to replenish empty shelves. The former first lady of the Seychelles and several other high-profile figures were in court on January 21st over a $50m embezzlement scandal that has gripped the paradise island nation. On January 21st, the court ordered that Sarah Zarqhani Rene, widow of late president France Albert Rene who ruled from 1977 to 2004, remain in custody on charges of money laundering, along with another three co-accused. [Extracted from the article]

Using outputs from the “twentieth-century climate in coupled models” (20c3m) control run of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project, phase 3 (CMIP3), coupled GCMs, the authors have examined how seasonal variations of the Seychelles Dome (SD) are simulated in the southwestern Indian Ocean. The observed SD shows a dominant semiannual signal due to the semiannual variation in the local Ekman upwelling resulting from a combination of two terms related to the wind stress curl and the zonal wind stress. However, all models fail to reproduce this important mechanism. In particular, the latter contribution—that determined by the seasonal variation of the zonal wind stress associated with the Indian monsoon—is not well simulated. Successful models need to reproduce the asymmetric nature of the monsoon: a shorter and stronger summer monsoon and a longer and weaker winter monsoon. Possible remedies for the model bias are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We assessed the 15-year trends in the distribution of body mass index (BMI) and the prevalence of overweight in the Seychelles (Indian Ocean, African Region) and the relationship with socio-economic status (SES). Three population-based examination surveys were conducted in 1989, 1994 and 2004. Occupation was categorized as ‘labourer’, ‘intermediate’ or ‘professional’. Education was also assessed in 1994 and 2004. Between 1989 and 2004, mean BMI increased markedly in all sex and age categories (overall: 0.16 kg m−2 per calendar year, which corresponds to 0.46 kg per calendar year). The prevalence of overweight (including obesity, BMI ≥ 25 kg m−2) increased from 29% to 52% in men and from 50% to 67% in women. The prevalence of obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg m−2) increased from 4% to 15% in men and from 23% to 34% in women. Overweight was associated inversely with occupation in women and directly in men in all surveys. In multivariate analysis, overweight was associated similarly (direction and magnitude) to occupation and education. In conclusion, the increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity over time in all age, sex and SES categories suggests large-scale changes in societal obesogenic factors. The sex-specific association of SES with overweight suggests that prevention measures should be tailored accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The taxonomic status of Caridina similis Bouvier, 1904 has been clarified using specimens recently caught from the type locality. One lectotype and five paralectoptypes of C. similis are designated to stabilize the species' systematics. This species is endemic for the Seychelles Islands (Indian Ocean). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

1. Some invasive alien plants accelerate nutrient turnover in the ecosystem because the litter they produce has a high specific leaf area (SLA), high concentrations of nutrients and low concentrations of lignin and polyphenolics, and therefore decomposes rapidly. These litter properties are typical of plants from nutrient-rich but not nutrient-poor ecosystems, and we therefore hypothesize that species that successfully invade nutrient-poor ecosystems might not exhibit them. We tested our hypothesis in a nutrient-poor tropical forest on a granitic island in the Seychelles. 2. Leaf litter properties and annual decomposition rates of six native and six invasive woody species were compared in a field experiment. Each species group included two pioneer, two understorey and two canopy species. We also compared soil fertility under trees of Cinnamomum verum (dominant alien canopy tree), Falcataria moluccana (alien pioneer N-fixing tree) and Northea hornei (dominant native canopy tree), measuring total nutrient concentrations and nutrient absorption by ion exchange resins. 3. Within the ecological groups of pioneer and canopy species, litter of invasive species had higher mean values of SLA (120% higher) and leaf N concentration (80% higher), and litter decomposition was 40%–80% faster (rate k) than for native species; however, there were no such differences in the group of understorey species. Soils sampled under the three tree species differed little in nutrient concentrations. 4. The results indicate that even on the very nutrient-poor soils of the granitic Seychelles, some pioneer invasive species produce more decomposable litter and therefore have the potential to alter rates of nutrient cycling. However, the small differences in soil fertility beneath native and invasive trees suggest that impacts of invasive species on nutrient cycling are more complex and less predictable in nutrient-poor ecosystems, where several nutrients may be co-limiting, and native and alien species coexist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Height of individuals has long been considered as a significant index of nutrition and health of a population; still, there is little information regarding the trends of height and weight among developing or transitional countries. We assessed the secular trends in height and weight in children of the Seychelles, a rapidly developing island state in the Indian Ocean (African region). Methods: Height and weight were measured in all students of all schools in four selected school grades (kindergarten, 4th, 7th and 10th grades) for the periods 1998-9 (6391 children) and 2005-6 (8582 children). Data for 1956-7 was extracted from a previously published report. Results: At age 15.5 years, boys/girls were on average 10/13 cm taller and 15/9 kg heavier in 2005-6 than in 1956-7. Height increased in boys/girls by 1.62/0.93 cm/decade between 1956-7 and 1998-9 and by 1.14/1.82 cm/decade between 1998-9 and 2005-6. For weight, the linear increase in boys/ girls was 1.38/1.10 kg/decade between 1956-7 and 1998-9 and 2.21/2.50 kg/decade between 1998-9 and 2005-6. Overall, the relative increase in weight between 1956-7 and 2005-6 was 5-fold higher than the relative increase in height. Conclusion: Height and weight increased markedly over time in children aged <16 years in the Seychelles, consistent with large changes in socio-economic and nutritional indicators in the considered 50-year interval. The markedly steeper increase in weight than height over time is consistent with an epidemic of overweight and obesity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Prenatal exposure to mercury has been associated with adverse childhood neurologic outcomes in epidemiologic studies. Dose-response information for this relationship is useful for estimating benefits of reduced mercury exposure. OBJECTIVES: We estimated a dose-response relationship between maternal mercury body burden and subsequent childhood decrements in intelligence quotient (IQ), using a Bayesian hierarchical model to integrate data from three epidemiologic studies. METHODS: Inputs to the model consist of dose-response coefficients from studies conducted in the Faroe Islands, New Zealand, and the Seychelles Islands. IQ coefficients were available from previous work for the latter two studies, and a coefficient for the Faroe Islands study was estimated from three IQ subtests. Other tests of cognition/achievement were included in the hierarchical model to obtain more accurate estimates of study-to-study and end point-to-end point variability. RESULTS: We find a central estimate of -0.18 IQ points (95% confidence interval, -0.378 to -0.009) for each parts per million increase of maternal hair mercury, similar to the estimates for both the Faroe Islands and Seychelles studies, and lower in magnitude than the estimate for the New Zealand study. Sensitivity analyses produce similar results, with the IQ coefficient central estimate ranging from -0.13 to -0.25. CONCLUSIONS: IQ is a useful end point for estimating neurodevelopmental effects, but may not fully represent cognitive deficits associated with mercury exposure, and does not represent deficits related to attention and motor skills. Nevertheless, the integrated IQ coefficient provides a more robust description of the dose-response relationship for prenatal mercury exposure and cognitive functioning than results of any single study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The evidence for a "diabesity" epidemic is accumulating worldwide but population-based data are still scarce in the African region. We assessed the prevalence, awareness and control of diabetes (DM) in the Seychelles, a rapidly developing country in the African region. We also examined the relationship between body mass index, fasting serum insulin and DM. Methods: Examination survey in a sample representative of the entire population aged 25-64 of the Seychelles, attended by 1255 persons (participation rate of 80.2%). An oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) was performed in individuals with fasting blood glucose between 5.6 and 6.9 mmol/l. Diabetes mellitus (DM), impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) were defined along criteria of the ADA. Prevalence estimates were standardized for age. Results: The prevalence of DM was 11.5% and 54% of persons with DM were aware of having DM. Less than a quarter of all diabetic persons under treatment were well controlled for glycemia (HbA1c), blood pressure or LDL-cholesterol. The prevalence of IGT and IFG were respectively 10.4% and 24.2%. The prevalence of excess weight (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) and obesity (BMI ≥ 30 kg/m²) was respectively 60.1% and 25.0%. Half of all DM cases in the population could be attributed to excess weight. Conclusion: We found a high prevalence of DM and pre-diabetes in a rapidly developing country in the African region. The strong association between overweight and DM emphasizes the importance of weight control measures to reduce the incidence of DM in the population. High rates of diabetic persons not aware of having DM in the population and insufficient cardiometabolic control among persons treated for DM stress the need for intensifying health care for diabetes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty breadfruit cultivars growing in a field genebank at Kahanu Garden, National Tropical Botanical Garden, Hana, Maui, Hawaii, were evaluated for sensory attributes and nutrient composition. A taste panel scored eight flavor/aroma attributes, five textural attributes, and color. There were significant differences (P ≤ 0.01) in aroma, visual texture, flavor intensity, sweetness, starchiness, moistness, stringiness, firmness, and color The greatest differences were in color and texture. Nutrient analyses showed significant differences (P ≤ 0.05) for energy, carbohydrates, ash, crude protein, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, copper and zinc. Considering the versatility of breadfruit as a food, its ease of production, and its nutritional value, the numerous good quality flavorful cultivars available should be more widely grown for sustainable agriculture and food security. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. There are few data on overweight in children in developing countries. Such data are important to guide public health policy. We assessed trends in the prevalence of overweight and obesity in children from the Seychelles, a middle-income island state in the Indian Ocean. Methods. Multiple cross-sectional surveys were conducted each year between 1998 and 2004 on all students of all schools in four selected school grades (crèche, 4th, 7th and 10th years of mandatory school). Weight and height were measured and children were asked about walking time and frequency of physical exercise at leisure time. Excess weight categories were defined according to the criteria of the International Obesity Task Force (IOTF) and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Results. Data were available for 33&VeryThinSpace;340 observations in 1998–2004, corresponding to 23&VeryThinSpace;459 individual children measured once or several times. Based on IOTF criteria, the prevalence of ‘overweight’ or ‘obesity’ increased from 8.7% to 13.5% in boys, and from 11.8% to 18.6% in girls from 1998 to 2004 (P<0.001). The prevalence of ‘obesity’ increased from 2.1% to 5.2% in boys and from 3.1% to 6.2% in girls (P<0.001). Using CDC criteria, the prevalence of ‘at risk of overweight’ and ‘overweight’ increased by similar proportions. The shift towards higher values over time was larger in the upper than the lower tail of the BMI distribution. Physical activity decreased over calendar years and was inversely associated with excess weight. Conclusions. The prevalence of excess weight increased markedly over a seven-year period in children in the Seychelles. This is likely to reflect a rapid nutrition transition with increasingly positive energy balance. These findings stress the need for programs and policies aimed at promoting physical activity and healthy nutrition in countries in epidemiological transition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modern and abandoned Pleistocene rocky shores are described for several of the Seychelles Islands in order to examine the range of erosional features typical of granite shores in a tropical setting and to gauge the prospects for their preservation at unconformities in the rock record. The proportion of sandy beaches to rocky shores is estimated for each of the various islands under consideration, including Mahé, Praslin, Ronde, La Digue, Grande Sœur, and Cocos, Aspects of physical geography related to the position of reefs and the variable width of lagoons that surround and buffer the islands is considered with respect to the regional pattern of prevailing winds and oceanic circulation. Literature on the erosion of granite landforms is reviewed and applied to the Seychelles Inner Islands and the Seychelles Bank on which they sit. Outcrops of Pleistocene limestone closely associated with granite surfaces were searched for body fossils that represent an intertidal rocky-shore biota. Coralline red algae and vermetid gastropods are the primary components of laminated limestone attached directly to granite surfaces as protective bioconstructions. Cemented limestone rubble includes the body fossils of a dozen different kinds of invertebrates also found extant on modern granite shores in the Seychelles. Among them are gastropods that represent a range of different life styles, as well as corals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Chanocephalus justini sp. nov., C. modestus sp. nov. and C. pudicus sp. nov. are described from the Seychelles; C. cummingae sp. nov. is described from Madagascar, South Africa and Zimbabwe; and C. cautus sp. nov. and C. steineri sp. nov. from Madagascar. C. dirnakae Paulian is synonymized with C. depressus Meijere. A key lo males and a partial key to the females of the 14 Afrotropical species are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Drosophila sechellia is an island endemic of the Seychelles. After its geographic isolation on these islands, D. sechellia evolved into a host specialist on the fruit of Morinda citrifolia a fruit often noxious and repulsive to Drosophila. Specialization on M. citrifolia required the evolution of a suite of adaptations, including resistance to and preference for some of the toxins found in this fruit. Several of these adaptive traits have been studied genetically. Here, I summarize what is known about the genetics of these traits and briefly describe the ecological and geographical context that shaped the evolution of these characters. The data from D. sechellia suggest that adaptations are not as genetically complex as historically thought, although almost all of the adaptations of D. sechellia involve several genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This checklist illustrates and comments on the 109 species of marine bivalve currently known from Rodrigues. The fauna appears impoverished when compared to those of Mauritius, Reunion and Seychelles. Low habitat diversity is postulated as the cause of impoverishment rather than the relatively young geological age of Rodrigues. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine the incremental cost effectiveness of the five first line pharmacological smoking cessation therapies in the Seychelles and other developing countries. Design: A Markov chain cohort simulation. Subjects: Two simulated cohorts of smokers: (1) a reference cohort given physician counseling only; (2) a treatment cohort given counseling plus cessation therapy. Intervention: Addition of each of the five pharmacological cessation therapies to physician provided smoking cessation counseling. Main outcome measures: Cost per life-year saved (LYS) associated with the five pharmacotherapies. Effectiveness expressed as odds ratios for quitting associated with pharmacotherapies. Costs based on the additional physician time required and retail prices of the medications. Results: Based on prices for currently available generic medications on the global market, the incremental cost per LYS for a 45 year old in the Seychelles was US&dollar;599 for gum and &dollar;227 for bupropion. Assuming US treatment prices as a conservative estimate, the incremental cost per LYS was significantly higher, though still favourable in comparison to other common medical interventions: &dollar;3712 for nicotine gum, &dollar;1982 for nicotine patch, &dollar;4597 for nicotine spray, &dollar;4291 for nicotine inhaler, and &dollar;1324 for bupropion. Cost per LYS increased significantly upon application of higher discount rates, which may be used to reflect relatively high opportunity costs for health expenditures in developing countries with highly constrained resources and high overall mortality. Conclusion: Pharmacological cessation therapy can be highly cost effective as compared to other common medical interventions in low mortality, middle income countries, particularly if medications can be procured at low prices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mascarene ridged frog, Ptychadena mascareniensis, is the only African amphibian species thought to occur on Madagascar and on the Seychelles and also Mascarene islands. We explored its phylogenetic relationships and intraspecific genetic differentiation to contribute to the understanding of transoceanic dispersal in amphibians. Fragments of the mitochondrial 16S rRNA gene were sequenced from specimens collected over most of the distribution area of P. mascareniensis, including populations from Madagascar, Mascarenes and Seychelles. We identified five deeply divergent clades having pairwise divergences >5%, which probably all represent cryptic species in a P. mascareniensis complex. One of these seems to be restricted to Madagascar, the Mascarenes and the Seychelles. Sequences obtained from topotypic material (Réunion) were identical to the most widespread haplotype from Madagascar. The single Mauritian/Seychellean haplotype differed by only one mutation from a Malagasy haplotype. It is likely that the Mascarene and Seychellean populations were introduced from Madagascar by humans. In contrast, the absence of the Malagasy haplotypes from Africa and the distinct divergences among Malagasy populations (16 mutations in one divergent hapolotype from northern Madagascar) suggest that Madagascar was populated by Ptychadena before the arrival of humans c. 2000 years ago. Because Madagascar has been separated from Africa since the Jurassic, this colonization must have taken place by overseas rafting, which may be a more widespread dispersal mode in amphibians than commonly thought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forty-one fungal taxa, the majority macromycetes, were recorded from the Chagos Archipelago and the Seychelles, 29 and 17 respectively, with five, all macrofungi, common to both. Most of the fungi recorded are of wide distribution in the palaeotropics being either associated on these Indian Ocean islands with Cocos plantations and disturbed and/or anthropogenic sites. Some are even pantropical and none appears to be distinctive to these islands. A single collection (Sphinetrina tubiformis) is noted from Aldabra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 500 specimens of Syllidae were collected during two field expeditions in the years 1999 and 2000 to Mahe (Seychelles). Most of the specimens were collected on fringing coral reefs, others were dredged from deeper coralline sands (22-34 m). Eighteen genera and 39 species of Syllidae were found, of which four are herein described as new to science: Parexogone anseforbansensis n. sp., Parexogone seychellensis n. sp., Sphaerosyllis sanmartini n. sp. and Typosyllis pseudoheterosetosa n. sp. Descriptions with illustrations and micrographs are provided for the new and other interesting species. The majority of the species are really interstitial, living in sandy habitats; the others were found under and inside beach rocks and dead corals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Illustrated descriptions are provided for four new lichen species found in The Seychelles: Arthothelium feuereri Aptroot & Seaward, Dimerella straminea Aptroot & Seaward, D. subs quamosa Aptroot & Seaward and Fellhanera silhouettae Aptroot & Seaward. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study details the first baseline survey of the Critically Endangered Seychelles Scops OwlOtus insularis, currently only recorded from the 152-km2 island of Mahé, the largest and highest island in the granitic Seychelles, western Indian Ocean. A survey was conducted in October 2000–March 2001 using playback of conspecific calls in random squares (500 m× 500 m) with midpoints being at least equal to 100 m asl. Playback was conducted in 159 of a possible 375 squares (42%). Territorial responses were detected in 60 of 159 (38%) squares, which represented an estimated 70 distinct territorial responses. Pairs responded in 51% and single birds responded in 49% of squares where a response was elicited. Scops Owls were more likely to be detected at higher altitudes, in mixed forest, and sympatrically with endemic frogs (Tachycnemis seychellensisandSooglossusspp.). Two models were used to predict population: one based exclusively on altitude resulted in a population estimate of 134–159 territories (268–318 individuals) within a 34-km2 range, whereas a second incorporating altitude and vegetation, which excluded unsuitable habitat, resulted in an estimate of 125–142 territories (250–284 individuals) in a 31-km2 range. We discuss the implications of our findings to the Owl's conservation status and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 2000, the National Research Council (NRC), an arm of the National Academy of Sciences, released a report entitled, "Toxicological Effects of Methylmercury." The overall conclusion of that report was that, at levels of exposure in some fish- and marine mammal-consuming communities (including those in the Faroe Islands and New Zealand), subtle but significant adverse effects on neuropsychological development were occurring as a result of in utero exposure. Since the release of that report, there has been continuing discussion of the public health relevance of current levels of exposure to Methylmercury. Much of this discussion has been linked to the release of the most recent longitudinal update of the Seychelles Island study. It has recently been posited that these findings supercede those of the NRC committee, and that based on the Seychelles findings, there is little or no risk of adverse neurodevelopmental effects at current levels of exposure. In this commentary, members of the NRC committee address the conclusions from the NRC report in light of the recent Seychelles data. We conclude that no evidence has emerged since the publication of the NRC report that alters the findings of that report. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

About 96% of the more than 4,800 living anuran species belong to the Neobatrachia or advanced frogs. Because of the extremely poor representation of these animals in the Mesozoic fossil record, hypotheses on their early evolution have to rely largely on extant taxa. Here we report the discovery of a burrowing frog from India that is noticeably distinct from known taxa in all anuran families. Phylogenetic analyses of 2.8 kilobases of mitochondrial and nuclear DNA unambiguously designate this frog as the sister taxon of Sooglossidae, a family exclusively occurring on two granitic islands of the Seychelles archipelago. Furthermore, molecular clock analyses uncover the branch leading to both taxa as an ancient split in the crown-group Neobatrachia. Our discovery discloses a lineage that may have been more diverse on Indo-Madagascar in the Cretaceous period, but now only comprises four species on the Seychelles and a sole survivor in India. Because of its very distinct morphology and an inferred origin that is earlier than several neobatrachian families, we recognize this frog as a new family. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The critically endangered Seychelles Black Paradise Flycatcher Terpsiphone corvina was once found on at least five of the inner (granitic) islands in the Seychelles archipelago, western Indian Ocean. Currently, it is only found on two islands, with c. 98% of the world population ( c. 150–200 individuals) occurring on the 10-km2 island of La Digue. Creation of additional island populations is therefore considered crucial in improving its conservation status. The presence of native broad-leaved plateau forest in proximity to wetland areas is proposed as an important selection criterion when considering the suitability of other islands for translocation, due to the presumed importance of insect prey (dependent on water) in the diet. We quantified habitat use, territory composition, the effect of water on invertebrate abundance, and foraging and breeding success to determine the importance of native broad-leaved woodland and wetland areas for Flycatchers. Flycatcher territories contained significantly more native broad-leaved woodland (88%) than its availability on the plateau (43%); Flycatchers used native tree species significantly more for both foraging (81%) and nesting (95%) than their availability within territories (71%); and territory size varied inversely with the density of native broad-leaved tree species. Native broad-leaved forest was associated with semipermanent and permanent water bodies and availability of native forest habitat was a good predictor of territory distribution. The number of aerial insects trapped was higher close to water, but there was no effect of the proximity to water on the number of insects counted on foliage. The majority of identified prey species in adult diet were not dependent on water: Orthoptera and Lepidoptera were the most common prey groups, comprising 66% of identified prey items. There was no effect of proximity to water on foraging or breeding success ( c. 35%): depredation was the major factor determining breeding success, and accounted for the majority of nest failures. The importance of wetland areas to Flycatchers therefore appears to have been over-emphasized. The implications for translocation and conservation of the Flycatcher are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary 1. Demographic models are assuming an important role in management decisions for endangered species. Elasticity analysis and scope for management analysis are two such applications. Elasticity analysis determines the vital rates that have the greatest impact on population growth. Scope for management analysis examines the effects that feasible management might have on vital rates and population growth. Both methods target management in an attempt to maximize population growth. 2. The Seychelles magpie robin Copsychus sechellarum is a critically endangered island endemic, the population of which underwent significant growth in the early 1990s following the implementation of a recovery programme. We examined how the formal use of elasticity and scope for management analyses might have shaped management in the recovery programme, and assessed their effectiveness by comparison with the actual population growth achieved. 3. The magpie robin population doubled from about 25 birds in 1990 to more than 50 by 1995. A simple two-stage demographic model showed that this growth was driven primarily by a significant increase in the annual survival probability of first-year birds and an increase in the birth rate. Neither the annual survival probability of adults nor the probability of a female breeding at age 1 changed significantly over time. 4. Elasticity analysis showed that the annual survival probability of adults had the greatest impact on population growth. There was some scope to use management to increase survival, but because survival rates were already high (> 0·9) this had a negligible effect on population growth. Scope for management analysis showed that significant population growth could have been achieved by targeting management measures at the birth rate and survival probability of first-year birds, although predicted growth rates were lower than those achieved by the recovery programme when all management measures were in place (i.e. 1992–95). 5. Synthesis and applications. We argue that scope for management analysis can provide a useful basis for management but will inevitably be limited to some extent by a lack of data, as our study shows. This means that identifying perceived ecological problems and designing management to alleviate them must be an important component of endangered species management. The corollary of this is that it will not be possible or wise to consider only management options for which there is a demonstrable ecological benefit. Given these constraints, we see little role for elasticity analysis because, when data are available, a scope for management analysis will always be of greater practical value and, when data are lacking, precautionary management demands that as many perceived ecological problems as possible are tackled. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genetic bases of sexual isolation between Drosophila melanogaster and D. simulans have been mainly studied in females, and there is little information about the role of the males in interspecific mating discrimination. Using D. simulans synthetic lines with compound chromosomes from a population of the Seychelles Islands (high frequency of interspecific mating) and a multimarker strain (low frequency), we show that D. simulans males play an important role in discriminating D. melanogaster females. The genetics of male discrimination fits well with the inheritance mode of a single locus, dominant for sexual isolation, located in chromosome II near the net mutation (2L-0.0). The heterospecific mating success of the male was not related to his sexual vigor. The specific load of male cuticular hydrocarbons was counted as a possible source of discrimination used by the D. melanogaster female.Heredity (2003) 91, 202-207. doi:10.1038/sj.hdy.6800328 [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The only data previously recorded on the diet of the critically endangered, endemic Seychelles Scops Owl, Otus insularis, is from the stomach contents of a few museum specimens and analysis of one pellet. Data are presented on more than 400 prey items identified from pellets and video recordings of provisioning at two nests. Pellets comprised exclusively of invertebrate remains: Orthoptera (64%), Coleoptera (14%), arachnids (11%) and other invertebrates (11%). Similarly, 111 (76%) of all items identified during 145 provisioning visits at two nests were invertebrates. Seventy-three (66%) were identified to morphospecies and comprised Orthoptera (93%), arachnids (4%) and Lepidoptera (3%). The diet of scops owls inhabiting areas of different altitudes (180–700m asl) was similar. Identification of prey taxa and species suggests that a significant amount of foraging takes place from foliage and on tree trunks, not just on the ground. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The introduced yellow crazy ant or long-legged ant Anoplolepis gracilipes was first reported in Seychelles in 1969 and now occurs on at least nine islands in the Central Seychelles. We describe the yellow crazy ant's effects on vegetation and invertebrate communities on one of these, Bird Island; in 2000, Anoplolepis (first reported in 1991) occurred there at densities at least 80 times higher than on other islands in the Central Seychelles. They were associated with high densities of coccid scale insects on foliage, especially of the native tree Pisonia grandis, in some instances causing tree death. Yellow crazy ants on Bird Island also significantly affected invertebrate communities on foliage and on the ground, both in terms of taxonomic composition and the density of specific taxa, apparently causing the local exclusion of some invertebrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary 1. A major challenge for population ecology is to predict population responses to novel conditions, such as habitat loss. This frequently involves understanding dispersal decisions, in terms of their consequences for fitness. However, this approach requires detailed data, and is thus often inappropriate for urgent problems on poorly known species. This may be resolved by developing a predictive framework based on well-studied species, for applying to those that are less well understood. 2. Population size, group sizes and habitat occupancy of the Seychelles warbler (Acrocephalus sechellensis ) can be predicted by determining the evolutionary stable dispersal strategy. For densities near to demographic equilibrium, regulation results from the combined effects of non-breeding and use of sink habitats. 3. In the Seychelles warbler, resident male non-breeders compete for breeding vacancies on neighbouring territories. The resulting kin competition is a key process for predicting the observed balance between regulation by non-breeding and regulation by sink use. Family groups, in which offspring delay dispersal, hoping to fill a vacancy on a local territory, are common among group-living species. This suggests that kin competition may frequently play a central role in the population regulation of socially complex species. 4. Although all the model variants considered are complex, predictions are shown to be insensitive to a range of simplifications, illustrating that, despite significant evolutionary import at the individual level, some behaviour can be unimportant when considering population level questions. Identifying which behavioural strategies have significant demographic consequences is key to the further development of population models based on fitness maximizing behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The species composition and diversity of benthic meiofaunal communities inhabiting the fringing reef lagoon of Anse Forbans were studied during two field collections in the years 1999 and 2000. The Anse Forbans is a sandy beach, on the SE coast of Mahé, which shows a physical and biological zonation parallel to the shore. The meiofauna in the sediments of the zones was dominated by polychaetes, especially the Syllidae. Thirty-three different syllid species belonging to sixteen generic taxa were identified. Streptosyllis aequiseta Hartmann-Schröder, 1981, one of the most abundant species and widely distributed within the reef flat, is redescribed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three new species of Magelona are described from the Seychelles: M. conversa, M. falcifera and M. gemmata. Magelona conversa belongs to a 'M. mirabilis group', having a rounded prostomium and specialised chaetae on chaetiger 9, but differs from all other members in having long prechaetal neuropodial lamellae on chaetigers 1–8. Magelona falcifera bears large sickle-shaped hooded hooks in the abdomen and thus approaches the genus Meredithia, but lacks prostomial horns. Magelona gemmata belongs to a 'M. longicornis group' in having distinct prostomial frontal horns, and a thorax with lanceolate postchaetal lamellae in the notopodia and ventral neuropodial lobes. The distinctively swollen bud-like tips on the notopodial lamellae of chaetiger 9 are an unique feature. The status of Meredithia Hernández-Alcántara & Solís-Weiss, 2000 and current magelonid terminology are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Describes the distribution of a fungal pathogen previously unrecorded in the Seychelles (Leptographium calophylli) that was detected on takamaka tree Calophyllum inophyllum in the granitic Seychelles six years after it was first recorded in 1994, reviews the potential impact of the disease on conservation value and discusses management strategies to minimise the impact of the disease on endemic vertebrates. The takamaka tree Calophyllum inophyllum is an important component of indigenous coastal forests in the granitic Seychelles, found on most islands of the archipelago. Since the first cases of the disease were observed, spread of the disease has been rapid, both within and between islands. Attempts to control the disease, involving both legislation and forest management, appear to have had little impact in controlling the spread. In the six years since the disease was first recorded in the Seychelles, it has reached 10 islands, including most of the large islands of the archipelago. Mortality rates and rates of spread between trees appear to vary in different islands and situations, but in some cases both appear to be high.

A new species of frog of the genus Sooglossus (Sooglossidae) is described. The family is restricted to Mahé and Silhouette islands in Seychelles. Three species have been described previously (Nesomantis thomasseti, Sooglossus sechellensis and S. gardineri), all found on both islands. A new species is described from Silhouette island; it is associated with the Seychelles endemic palm tree Phoenicophorium borsigianum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The 750-Ma Seychelles granites have wholerock δ[sup 18]O values that range from -1.2 to + 7.5‰. Differences in δ[sup 18]O values between quartz, feldspar and whole-rock for samples that have a range of δ[sup 18]O values suggest that these minerals are in magmatic equilibrium, and that the whole-rock δ[sup 18]O values were little affected by post-crystallization interaction with fluids. Two suites of granites (the Mahé type and the Praslin type) have previously been recognized on the basis of chemical and radiogenic isotope composition. The former have a mean whole-rock Δ[sup 18]O value of 5.25±0.65‰ (1σ), whereas the latter are much more variable, with a mean whole-rock δ[sup 18]O value of 3.00±3.27‰. Biotite and amphibole separates from both granite types range in δD from -69 to -116‰, values. Dolerite dykes that in- with whole-rock δ[sup 18]O values. Dolerite dykes that intruded the granites during or shortly after their crystallization also have whole-rock δ[sup 18]O values (mean 2.24 ± 1.93‰) lower than that expected for mantle-derived basaltic rocks, but these values appear to be the result of fluid-rock interaction. We suggest that the Mahé-type granites are derived mainly from juvenile mafic to intermediate crust with 'normal' δD and δ[sup 18]O values, whereas the Praslin-type granites are mixtures of this source and older crust that acquired its low δD and δ[sup 18]O values by extensive interaction with meteoric water at high temperature. It is unlikely that meteoric water sufficiently depleted in D and [sup 18]O was available at 750 Ma because of the relatively low latitude of the region at that time. We suggest that alteration of the source took place significantly before production of the granite magmas. Depletion in [sup 18]O of the Seychelles granites does not necessarily require a regional... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Seychelles islands consist of undeformed and unmetamorphosed, metaluminous monzogranites and granodiorites of Neoproterozoic age (∼750 Ma). Subsolvus, and lesser hypersolvus granitoids are crosscut by coeval dolerite dykes, dominantly of olivine tholeiite composition. Field relations suggest that mixing between granitoid and doleritic magmas generated a variety of minor intermediate rocks that occur as irregular masses and enclaves; their compositions plot as linear arrays between those of dolerites and granitoids. Two groups of granitoids can be distinguished based on colour, chemistry and isotopic signature. Mahé Group granitoids are grey, with relatively low incompatible element concentrations and primitive isotopic signatures that cluster at εNd 750 = +2·85 ± 0·17 and ISr 750 = 0·7031 ± 0·0008 (some samples with impossibly low ISr <0·700 were affected by open-system processes). Praslin Group granitoids are characteristically red to pink, with Rb >180 ppm, U >4·2 ppm, Th >20 ppm, Pb > 30 ppm, and correspondingly evolved and variable isotopic signatures (εNd, T = +0·80 to −3·71 and ISr, T = 0·7032–0·7263). Both groups of granitoids appear to have been derived from a mixed source dominated by a juvenile, mantle-derived component, with variable amounts of an ancient, possibly Archaean, silicic source constituent or contaminant. Potential source materials are unexposed in the Seychelles, but the juvenile component may resemble ∼750 Ma intermediate to mafic metavolcanic rocks of NW Madagascar or NE India; candidates for the ancient silicic component, whose signature is slightly enhanced in granitoids of the Praslin Group, may be represented by 2·5–3·3 Ga tonalitic gneisses of the Banded Gneiss Complex in Rajasthan (NW India), or by similar materials present in central–northern Madagascar. Seychelles dolerites show variable Nd and Sr isotopic compositions (εNd 750 = +5·46 to −0·87; ISr 750 = 0·7021–0·7061) that can be modelled as basaltic magmas derived from depleted mantle, variably contaminated (0–15%) by Archaean silicic crust. All petrologic, petrographic, geochemical, isotopic and chronologic data for Neoproterozoic magmatic rocks of the Seychelles, coupled with palaeomagnetic data indicating its position at the margin of the Rodinia supercontinent at ∼750 Ma, are at least consistent with, if not suggestive of, a continental or Andean-type arc setting. We argue, therefore, that the conventionally accepted notion of an extensional (i.e. rift or plume) setting for Seychelles magmatism is vulnerable. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The status of the Seychelles endemic terrapins is reviewed based on field-surveys. Pelusios castanoides intergularis and P. subniger parietalis are confined to a small number of marshes and rivers. All the sites occupied are limited in area (<4.5 ha) and under threat from drainage, predation and invasion by alien water plants. The smallest populations are unlikely to be viable in the long-term. Both species can be categorized as Critically Endangered using the IUCN Red List categories, with highly restricted ranges (2.89 and 6.02 ha for P. castanoides and P. subniger, respectively) that have decreased by over 50 per cent in recent years. Conservation of these species requires both the protection of wetland habitats and the establishment of new populations in protected areas. A captive breeding programme has been established with the aim of reintroducing juveniles into secure reserves. The endemic species P. seychellensis may be extinct. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Presents benchmark analyses of data compiled from a study done in Seychelles regarding mothers who consumed fish containing methylmercury during their pregnancy and the developmental outcome in their children. Effects of methylmercury on the fetal brain; Advantages of the benchmark dose method over the no-observed-adverse-effect-level approach.

Self-reported drinking habits were examined in a random sample of 1067 persons aged 25–64 years in the Seychelles, a country in epidemiological transition where consumption of home-brewed, mostly unregistered beverages has been traditionally high. Alcohol consumption was calculated from respondents reporting at least one drink per week (‘regular drinkers’). Among men, 51.1% were regular drinkers and had average intake of 112.1 ml alcohol a day. Among women, 5.9% were regular drinkers and had 49.7 ml alcohol a day. Frequency of drinking, but not amount per drinker, was slightly less in the 25–34-year than older-age categories. Home-brews (mostly palm toddy and fermented sugar cane juice) were consumed by 52% of regular drinkers and accounted for 54% of the total alcohol intake reported by all regular drinkers. Based on the reported consumption by regular drinkers only, the average annual alcohol consumption amounted respectively to 20.7 litres and 1.2 litres per man and woman aged 25–64 years, or, using extrapolation, 13.2 litres and 0.8 litres per man and woman respectively of the total population. These values may underestimate the true figures by half, since reported beer consumption accounted for 53% of beer sales. Socio-economic status was associated strongly and inversely with home-brew consumption, but slightly and positively with consumption of commercially marketed beverages. Alcohol intake was associated with smoking, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, carbohydrate-deficient transferrin and blood pressure, but not with age and body mass index. In conclusion, these data show high alcohol consumption in the Seychelles with an important gender difference, a large proportion of alcohol derived from home-brews, and opposite tendencies for the relationships between socio-economic status and home-made or commercially marketed beverages. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Objective and Method: To compare the response of a dipstick assay (DSA) detecting Leptospira-specific immunoglobulin M (IgM) antibodies with that of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), an indirect haemagglutination assay (IHA), the microagglutination test (MAT) and a polymerase chain reaction assay (PCR) in patients with leptospirosis confirmed by MAT alone or by MAT and/or PCR (MAT/PCR).Result: In 75 patients with acute leptospirosis diagnosed by MAT (respectively, 90 patients diagnosed by MAT/PCR), the response in paired early and convalescent sera was positive in 78.9% (67.9%) by DSA, 76.0% (67.8%) by ELISA, 58.7% (55.6%) by IHA, 44.0% (53.3%) by PCR, and 100% (90.0%) by MAT. In early serum only, the response in patients diagnosed by MAT (respectively by MAT/PCR) was positive in 36.0% (38.9%) by DSA, 36.0% (37.8%) by ELISA, 14.7% (18.9%) by IHA, 39.2% (48.3%) by PCR, and 53.3% (58.9%) by MAT titre > or =1:100. DSA detected the main serogroups implicated in human leptospirosis in Seychelles and demonstrated sensitivity comparable to ELISA. In 124 single sera from control subjects without overt disease, the response was positive in 4.8% by DSA, 3.2% by ELISA, 3.2% by IHA, 13.8% by PCR, 37.9% by MAT titre > or =1:100, and 2.4% by MAT titre > or =1:800, giving evidence of the frequency of both past and current subclinical infection in Seychelles and that DSA was less sensitive than MAT to detect moderate levels of leptospiral antibodies.Conclusion: DSA is a simple and reproducible assay well adapted to field conditions and could usefully contribute to the evaluation of leptospirosis in areas devoid of serological laboratory facilities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Presents information on ornithology, focusing on a study which was conducted to provide additional distribution data for the globally vulnerable endemic landbird species on Silhouette Island in the Seychelles. Methods used to conduct the study; Information on two threats which the endemic land birds are facing; Results and discussion of the study.

Concern about the effects of feral goats on Aldabra atoll—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—led to a search for solutions. The search highlighted the inaccessibility of information on feral goat eradication campaigns. As a result the International Council for Bird Preservation and the FFPS, through its Oryx 100% Fund, commissioned a report to bring together and assess known techniques and potential strategies and to consider their implications for conservation practice. This article is a shortened version of that report. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

The biology of 17 species of scolytid bark beetles in the genera Coccotrypes, Cryphalus, Hypocryphalus and Hypothenemus, found on the island of Mahé in the Seychelles is discussed. Particular attention is paid to their distribution, host plants, gallery systems, breeding systems and potential economic importance. Eight species are recorded from the Seychelles for the first time. Brief notes are given on 7 further species recorded from the Seychelles but not found in this study. Two species, Hypothenemus birmanus and H. eruditus are potential pests of stressed seedlings and transplants. Species of Coccotrypes may reduce the regeneration of certain endemic trees and palms with large seeds. Zusammenfassung Biologische Studien zur Borkenkäferfauna auf den Seychellen Es wird über die Biologie von 17 Scolytiden-Arten der Gattungen Coccotrypes, Cryphalus, Hypocryphalus und Hypothenemus, die auf der Insel Mahé der Seychellen gefunden wurden, berichtet. Der Schwerpunkt liegt dabei auf der räumlichen Verbreitung, den Wirtspflanzen, den Gang- und Brutsystemen sowie der potentiellen wirtschaftlichen Bedeutung dieser Borkenkäferarten. Acht Arten wurden erstmals auf den Seychellen gefunden. Zu 7 weiteren Arten, die ebenfalls auf den Seychellen, aber nicht in dieser Untersuchung gefunden wurden, werden kurze Angaben gemacht. Die beiden Arten Hypothenemus birmanus und H. eruditus sind potentielle Schädlinge geschwächter Sämlinge und verschulter Pflanzen. Die Arten der Gattung Coccotrypes können die Regeneration bestimmter endemischer großsamiger Bäume und Palmen verhindern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Discusses the implications involved with the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) management for the Republic of Seychelles as part of a wider study concerning the small midocean island Commonwealth territories. Circumstances surrounding the development of a significant foreign-run industrial tuna fishing industry by Seychelles; Reference to the need to focus more on management of the local artisanal fishery; Information on the Republic of Seychelles.

From a sample census of giant tortoises in the south-eastern region of Aldabra atoll, the size of the markable population was estimated as 87 300. A subsequent recapture study of the same population gave an estimate of 68 100. Sampling errors are unlikely to account for the difference, which is significant at the 1% level. After taking into account obvious violations of the underlying assumptions the difference remains. The sample census estimate is thought to be the more reliable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pisonia mycorrhizas found in Seychelles possessed transfer cells next to the fungal sheath and Hartig net. There were extensive wall-ingrowths on outer-tangential and radial walls of epidermal cells, and on parts of cortical cells, in contact with the mycorrhizal fungus. In general structure, having basidiomycete sheath, transfer cells, and Hartig net between epidermal cells only, the mycorrhizas resembled those from the Australian Great Barrier Reef; Seychelles material had poorer definition of the layers in the sheath and a better-developed Hartig net. Mycorrhizal development was best at sites with coral sand, the characteristic habitat for P. grandis. At the one site which had soil derived from granite, only one mycorrhiza was found, although many roots were examined and most of these had hyphae at the root surface. In the older mycorrhizas the transfer-cell walls changed from red-purple staining to blue with toluidme blue (pH 4.4), probably because of incorporation of phenolic material; the sheath showed damage and increased impregnation with dark-coloured phenolic material. From these changes it is suggested that the mycorrhizal association is likely to be functional for only a short distance back from the tip. Comparison of mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal roots suggested that the transfer cells were induced by the fungus, but that a complete sheath was not necessary for their formation. The transfer-cell wall-ingrowths were clearly distinguishable from ' papillae' formed in fungal invasion, by their morphology, staining properties, and appearance in the electron microscope. The unique structure of the Pisonia mycorrhiza puts it in a category of its own, and its discovery in Seychelles implies that the mycorrhizal habit is widespread in this species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Attempts to trace the development of corruption in Seychelles in a global context. Background information about the Republic of Seychelles; Great Britain's strategy for decolonization in the western Indian Ocean from the 1960s; Intense international diplomatic and military activity in Seychelles after its independence in 1976; South Africa's relationship with Seychelles.

This article describes language policy in the Seychelles and its consequences. In 1979, three years after independence and two years after the Socialist government of President France-Albert René came into power, Creole was elevated to the status of an official language, together with English and French. Seychellois Creole was thus the first French-based Creole to gain official recognition. Before independence, the sociolinguistic situation in the Seychelles could be described in terms of diglossia as analyzed in the Diglossia article of Charles A. Ferguson. The establishment of official trilingualism was the second step in the language policy of the Seychelles after independence, the first step being the reintroduction of French as an official language. In September 1976, the new Republic had proclaimed a so-called bilinguisme équilibré of English and French, which meant that the French language, having remained the mother tongue of part of the upper class, regained its rightful place. The third and last step in the language policy of the Seychelles followed in 1981, when Creole became the first national language of the Republic, English second and French third, and when it was decided that Creole should become the primary medium of instruction in the schools.

The article focuses on a study that reported the presence of the hawkmoth specimen Euchloron megaera in Seychelles in East Africa, as of January 2015. it states that the specimen is common in Africa with presence of several subspecies, and presents a biogeographical checklist all known Seychelles hawkmoth on the island. It notes that Seychelles shared a closer affinity to continental Africa than to Madagascar in terms of presence of the butterflies on the island.