001068   Narayanan K;Sahu S K (Humanities and Social Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076, Email: Humanities and Social Sciences Dep, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Powai, Mumbai-400 076) : Effects of climate change on household economy and adaptive responses among agricultural households in eastern coast of India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1240-50.

It is imperative to understand the effects of climate change on household members and the vulnerability level in and across agricultural households for India in general, and for eastern coastal part of the country in particular. This study covers primary data from 150 households from 2 blocks of Kendrapara district in Odisha. The household level unit of analysis is policy driven and follows the IPCC model on Vulnerability Analysis and Climate Change Adaptation Research. The model is expanded to include the livelihood strategies of the households, in order to empiri-cally*assess their vulnerability and adaptive responses. This study uses an econometric model on household vulnerability and adaptive capacity of rural households. The results imply that access to credit facilities and experiences of the households in farming are important factors to improve farmers' adaptation to climate change.

4 illus, 6 tables, 35 ref

001067   Mathur M;Awasthi S (Watershed Organisation Trust, , Pune-411 009, Email: suchita.awasthi@wotr.org.in) : Carbon neutral village/cluster: a conceptual framework for envisioning. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1208-15.

One of the primary drivers of climate change has been the continuous increase in anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions. If these emissions continue to increase at the current rate then it would push the carbon cycle out of its dynamic equilibrium which may lead to irreversible changes in the climate system. Thus, it is imperative to initiate systemic changes through various socio-economic and technological interventions to mitigate emissions and enhance sinks. This paper attempts to present a conceptual framework of such interventions and highlights the synergies between mitigation and adaptation.

3 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

001066   Manju M J;Benagi V I;Shankarappa T H;Vinod K K;Kuruvilla Jacob C (Hevea Breeding Sub-Station, Rubber Research Institute, Kadaba, 574221, Email: manjumjm@yahoo.co.uk) : Major diseases of Hevea brasiliensis in rubber growing regions of South India. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(3A), 1299-1302.

Disease surveys were conducted to appraise the incidence and severity of major leaf diseases of rubber in the non-traditional rubber growing areas of South India. Abnormal leaf fall (ALF) disease caused by Phytophthora sp., powdery mildew (PM) caused by Oidium heveae, colletotrichum leaf spot (CLS) caused by Colletotrichum spp and corynespora leaf fall (CLF) caused by Corynespora cassiicola were the disease included in the study. The study revealed that ALF, PM and CLS occured consistently in almost all the plantations surveyed, while CLF was not so wide spread in hilly areas. In Subramanya, Puttur, Belthangady, Kundapura and Sullia areas the incidences of both CLS and CLF occurred to aggravate the damage. Observations on incidence of diseases on different clones revealed that the clones, RRIM 600 and GT 1 suffered severely from ALF and PM diseases, where as RRH 105 from CLF and CLS diseases.

3 tables, 9 ref

001065   Manji M J;Sabu P I;Shankarappa T H;Jacob C K;Edwin P;Jacob M (Hevea Breeding Sub-Station, Rubber Research Instiute, Kadaba-574 221, Email: manjumjm@yahoo.co.uk) : Effect of herbicide and fungicide application to curb Corynespora cassiicola inoculum in rubber plantation. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(3A), 1293-8.

Corynespora leaf fall (CLF) disease in-cited by Corynespora cassiicola (Berk & Curt) is the major constraints to rubber growing countries. As part of integrated disease management, the impact of ground application of herbicide and fungicide to reduce the inoculum load in rubber plantation was studied. The study revealed that ground application of herbicide and fungicide was not effective for management or suppression of inoculum of Corynespora leaf fall disease in the rubber plantation. The disease intensity ranged from 58.00 to 59.25% in the first season, 55.00 to 59.00 and 60.50 to 61.25% during the second and third seasons respectively. The leaf fall ranged from 419 to 432, 416 to 423 and 444 to 467 numbers per M^{2 during first, second and third disease seasons respectively. Number of fungal spore catch per cm3 did not differ much, conversely the plots treated with weedicide along with fungicide recorded less number of spores movement at just above ground level (H₁), but did not show any significant collision on the disease development at canopy level.}

3 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

001064   Kailas J G;Ramakrishna H (Palaeobotany and Palynology Research of Botany Dep, College of Science Univ, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: hrkpaleobot@gmail.com) : Effect of vehicular air pollution on pollen viability. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 73-4.

The present investigation deals with study of vehicular air pollution on pollen viability of Butea monosperma, Dalbergia sisso, Cassia fistula and Cassia siamea. The study was carried out in die forest, irrigated and polluted areas of Karimnagar district. The pollen of these species were treated widi acetocarmine stain method and was observed a considerable reduction in pollen viability in the plants of traffic polluted area. It has observed that the mean percentage of pollen viability i.e., Butea monosperma has 91.2% in forest locality, 96.3% in irrigated locality, and 84.1% in polluted locality. Pollen viability of Dalbergia sissoo is 95.12% in forest locality, 95.47% in irrigated locality, and 76.79% in polluted locality whereas pollen viability of Cassia fistula is 95.12% in forest locality, 95.47% in irrigated locality, and 76.79% in polluted locality and pollen viability of Cassia siamea is 95.12% in forest, 95.47% in irrigated, and 76.79% in polluted localities. The pollen from forest and irrigated localities have high percentage of viability when compare to polluted area.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

001063   Jeane M;Sanjay Kumar;SHarma S K;Ram Prakash; Rajpaul;Satyavan (Soil and Water Engineering Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: sanjay7228@yahoo.com) : Groundwater quality mapping of Dabwali block of Sirsa district (Haryana). Ann Biol 2016, 32(1), 70-7.

The present study examined the quality of groundwater in 83263 ha region comprising Dabwali block of Sirsa district, lies on the western part of Hsiryana state. One hundred and twelve groundwater samples from running tubewells in the block were analyzed for ionic concentrations of CO₃^{2-, HCO₃-, Cl-, SO₄2-, Ca2+, Mg2+, Na+ and K+. Parameters such as electrical conductance (EC), pH, sodium absorption ratio (SAR) and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) were also evaluated. In the block, EC ranged from 0.4-13.9 dS/m with an average of 4.0 dS/m and pH ranged from 7.4 to 10.0 with an average of 8.4. SAR ranged from 0.9 to 20.8 (m mol/l)1/2 with an average of 8.7 (m mol/1)1/2 and RSC ranged from 0.0 to 3.6 and it was absent in all samples having EC greater than 3 dS/m. According to AICRP classification, out of seven categories, maximum 31.3% of samples were found in marginally saline and minimum 8.0% were found in saline, whereas no sample was found in alkali and high alkali categories. Contour maps of EC, SAR, RSC and groundwater quality were plotted to study spatial variability of these parameters in the block. The most dominating range of EC of groundwater was 2-4 dS/m, lying in eastern to western parts of the block and for pH, it was 8.0-8.4. On the basis of GIS mapping, the maximum area (33555 ha) was estimated under marginally saline category which comprised 40.3% area of the block followed by high SAR saline category with estimated area of 24646 ha and the minimum area (3913 ha) of the block was estimated under saline category. As GIS works on the principle of spatial distribution, thus, it depicted the true picture of groundwater quality distribution tin an area.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

001062   Jadhav B U;Goel P K;Sathe S S (Botany and Pollution Dep, Yashwantrao Chavan College of Science, Kaad-415 124) : Seasonal variatins in biotic indices of some rivers in Satara district (Maharashtra) for prediction of water quality. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 75-80.

Satara district in Maharashtra is bestowed with rich water resources in the form of rivers which supply water for diverse uses including industry, domestic supply and agriculture. The major river, running across the district, is Krishna River with its several tributaries. Some important tributaries of the River Krishna are Koyana, Tarali, Urmodi and Uttar Mand rivers. As these rivers pass through agricultural and inhabited areas, they are likely to be adversely affected resulting in change of their water quality. Use of biological component for predicting water quality is being given an emphasis these days over the physico-chemical parameters as the changes in biological component due to pollution are usually long lasting. With the development of several quantitative indices based on biological component, it has now become easier to make more predictive evaluation of water quality. Biotic indices are based on the organisms whose capacity to tolerate or sensitiveness to pollution can be taken into account for computation of these indices. The present study deals with the seasonal variation of two important biotic indices i.e., Palmer algal index and Nygaard index and their associated water quality parameters. The total numbers of 63 algal species were recorded in the five rivers belonging to four major groups like Chlorophyceae, Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Euglenophyceae. Palmer index shows the Krishna and Urmodi rivers as medium polluted, Koyana river as polluted in summer season and non-polluted in winter and rainy seasons. The Tarali and Uttar Mand rivers are in non-polluted state. As per Nygaard compound index almost all the rivers are polluted to some extent. While studying the correlation between various water quality parameters and the values of Palmer and Nygaard indices, it was found that the correlation was positive except pH but the values of correlation coefficient were not statistically significant. This is mainly because of the wide variation of water quality parameters in rivers as compared to the values of biotic indices.

4 tables, 16 ref

001061   Gupta A (Agricultural Engineering Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012) : Comparison of reference evapotranspiration methods for Delhi region. Ann Agri Bio Res 2016, 21(1), 55-60.

This study was carried out with the objective to compare the performance of Thornthwaite, Hargreaves, Penman, Priestley and Taylor and Stephen and Stewart methods for estimation of reference evapotranspiration with data intensive Modified Penman-Monteith (PENMON) method using the daily weather data acquired from automatic weather station during 2013-14 and 2014-15 pertaining to semi-arid climatic condition of New Delhi, India. The performance evaluation of selected methods was carried out using linear regression and simple statistical analysis to suggest a substitute of PENMON method for estimation of reference evapotranspiration using minimal climatic parameters available at regional scales. It was observed that the Penman method performed the best and was in line with estimated ET₀ by PENMON method with coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.96 and 0.94 and root mean square error (RMSE) 0.51 mm/day and 0.54 mm/day during 2013-14 and 2014-15, respectively. Moreover, the Penmon method requires only daily mean temperature, wind speed, air pressure and solar radiation data.

3 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

001060   Gour K (NO, Priyadarshini J.L. College of Engg., 846 New Nandanvan, Nagpur) : Grey water treatment and management. Ultra Scient phys Sci-Sect B 2015, 27(3), 175-80.

Water is becoming a rare resource in the world. In India alone the International Water Management Institute (IWMI) predicts that by 2025, one person in three will live in conditions of absolute water scarcity (IWMI, 2003)(1). It is therefore essential to reduce surface and ground water use in all sectors of consumption, to substitute fresh water with alternative water resources and to optimize water use efficiency through reuse options. This alternative. Resources include rainwater and grey water. Grey water is all wastewater that is discharged from a house, excluding backwater (toilet water). This includes water from showers, bathtubs, sinks, kitchen, dishwashers, laundry tubs, and washing machines. It commonly contains soap, shampoo, and toothpaste, food scraps, cooking oils, detergents and hair. Typically, 50-80% of the household wastewater is grey water. If a composting toilet is also used, then 100% of the household wastewater is grey water. Reusing grey water serves two purposes: it reduces the amount of freshwater needed to supply and reduces the amount of waste water entering sewer or septic systems.

1 table, 4 ref

001059   Geeta;Namrata (Botany Dep, Jamshedpur Women's College, Bistupur, Jamshedpur, Jharkhand) : Effect of air pollution on the morphological and physiological characteristics of some roadside plants in Jamshedpur, India. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 13-17.

Plants are used as bioindicators of air pollution as these are the natural absorber of carbon dioxide. Plants act as sink to the air pollutants by scavenging and assisilating these pollutants. Morphological and physiological studies of leaves of some roadside trees such as Cassia siamea, Alstonia scholaris, Ayidirachta indica, Thevetia neriifolia and Polyathia longifolia of industrial, residential and commercial areas were carried out to assess the effect of air pollutants on these plants. All the morphological characteristics showed marked variation in the morphological parameters in all the three study areas. Similarly, plants also showed variation in the physiological parameters in all the three study area. This study provided sufficient clues by which A&idirachta indica may be considered as a tolerant species.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

001058   Gautam M K;Lee K S (Earth and Environmental Sciences Div, Korea Basic Science Institute, 162 Yeongudanji-ro, Ochang-eup, Cheongju, Chungcheongbuk-do 363-886, Republic of Korea, Email: kslee@kbsi.re.kr) : Application of stable isotopes in ecosystem research. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1288-306.

The ecological applications of natural abundance of stable isotopes benefited this understanding of the eco-system processes. Natural isotopic effects ensuing from difference in physico-chemical properties, frac-tionation and discrimination of elements such as carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, strontium and calcium, have been used to reinforce understanding the various aspects of ecosystem analysis and to revisit some old, baffling processes with new perspectives. Stable isotopes have provided insight into not only the relationship between biodiversity and ecosystem structure and functioning, but also strengthened our knowledge about the possible mechanisms of ecosystem functioning in various ecosystems and biomes. This review elucidates the role of natural abundance of stable isotopes in benefiting ecosystem analysis.

5 illus, 4 tables, 154 ref

001057   Esteves T;Ravindranath D;Beddamatta S;Raju K V;Sharma J;Bala G;Murthy I K (Centre for Sustainable Technology, Indian Institute of Science, Bangaluru-560 012, Email: indukmurthy@gmail.com) : Multi-scale vulnerability assessment for adaptation planning. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1225-39.

Vulnerability of communities and natural ecosystems, to potential impacts of climate change in developing countries like India, and the need for adaptation are rapidly emerging as central issues in the debate around policy responses to climate change. The present study presents an approach to identify and prioritize the most vulnerable districts, villages and households in Karnataka State, through a multi-scale assessment of inherent vulnerability to current climate variability. It also identifies the drivers of inherent vulnerability, thereby providing a tool for developing and mainstreaming adaptation strategies, in ongoing developmental or dedicated adaptation programmes. The multi-scale assessment was made for all 30 dis-tricts at the state level in Karnataka, about 1220 vil-lages in Chikballapur district, and at the household level for two villages - Gundlapalli and Saddapalli - in Bagepalli taluk of Chikballapur district. At the district, village and household levels, low levels of education and skills are the dominant factors contributing to vulnerability. At the village and household level, the lack of income diversification and livelihood support institutions are key drivers of vulnerability. The approach of multi-scale vulnerability assessment fa-cilitates identification and prioritization of the drivers of vulnerability at different scales, to focus adaptation interventions to address these drivers.

8 illus, 2 tables, 51 ref

001056   Datta S;Ray D C (Ecology and Environmental Science Dep, Assam (Central) Univ, Silchar-788 011, Email: raydualal@yahoo.co.in) : Ecology of soil acarine fauna in relation to edaphic factors in Jatropha plantation in Tripura. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(4A), 1680-3.

Ecological study of soil acarine fauna on Jatropha plantation (Jatropha curcus L.) was made in Tripura for one year. Study revealed that a total of 14 acarine fauna was first reported from Jatropha plantation. Among the acarine fauna Scheloribates sp. showed highest percentage of abundance (21.9%) followed by Galumna sp. (19.07%). Moisture content and organic carbon showed significant correlation. Shannon-Wiener index of diversity showed highest (3.64) in September, 2011 whereas the evenness was recorded as 0.98 in May, 2011.

1 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

001055   Dadhich L K (Modi Institute of Management of Technology, , Dadabari, Kota, Email: lkdadhich@gmail.com) : Quantification of ecosystem services in Mukandara national park, Rajasthan, India. Adv Pl Sci 2016, 29(1), 1-8.

This paper describes the impacts that climate change has on the variety of life forms in our planet, and by way of a concrete example of the Mukandara National Park region demonstrates climate impacts and adaptation to them, in the region. Mukandara National Park was formed because its forest is very suitable for preservation of flora and fauna of this area. Mukandara National Park is rich in biodiversity and is represented by dry deciduous forest of Anogeissuspendula and its associates. A large number of them are very important from the ethnological point of view e.g. Acacia catechu, BosweUia serrata, Butea monosperma, Cassia fistula etc. It was interesting to note that the ecosystem services and the species that make them up, sustain and fulfill the human life. They not only supply to the human being with the production of ecosystem goods, but also perform the fundamental life support services, which include the purification of air and water, detoxification and decomposition of wastes, regulation of climate, regeneration of soil fertility and production and maintenance of biodiversity, mitigation of foods and droughts. Valuation of ecosystem services aims to better inform decision-making, ensuring that policy appraisals more comprehensively take into account costs and benefits related to the natural environment. However, valuing ecosystem services in monetary terms is often difficult and controversial, particularly for many regulating and supporting services for which the benefits to people are not direct and easily recognized. Some argue that a monetary framework helps to shift context from "nature free" to "nature valuable", and can enhance the efficiency of policy. Others feel that it is inappropriate, unethical or dangerous, shifting focus from real ecological changes to monetary changes, and from sustainability constraints to tradeoffs. It is important to bear in mind that these methods are merely tools for aiding thinking and decision-making, and that the ecosystem services approach does not necessarily or logically entail the monetary approach. However, the ways we identify and categories ecosystem services are not value free, nor are they independent of the social and economic organization of societies. The roadmap developed within Mukandara National Park aims to identify the research requirments needed for the integration of an ecosystem services approach into policy and is intended to help research funding organizations, donors and research planning institutions to focus future research. Building this evidence base will require the development and continuation of institutional and trans-disciplinary cooperation and will lead to greater knowledge transfer between the scientific and policy communities, with the aim of developing and implementing effective conservation policy across India through the state of Rajasthan.

13 ref

001054   Chaturvedi R;Banerjee S;Das B;Chattopadhyay P;Bhattacharjee C R;Veer V (Chemistry Dep, Defence Research Laboratory, Tezpur-784 001, Email: saumenbanerjee2004@gmail.com) : High nitrate content in the surface water of Balipara, North Brahmaputra river basin, Sonitpur district, Assam, India: a multivariate approach. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1350-60.

The present study is an evaluation of ground and surface water quality at Balipara, North Brahmaputra river basin, Sonitpur district, Assam, India using mul-tivariate statistical methods. The results show high concentration of Fe, Mn, Pb and Cr in groundwater. Arsenic was observed in both ground and surface water. In the surface water, nitrate content was also found to be high. Ward's method was used for hierar-chical agglomerative cluster analysis. A close relation-ship between electrical conductivity (EC) and total dissolved solids (TDS) was established by the smallest proximity distance between these parameters. Group 1 comprised of TDS, EC, total alkalinity (TA), F, Ca, Pb, Cr and Cl based on proximity distances. Group 2 consisted of Fe, Mn, As and Group 3 of TH, Mg, pH, Zn, SO₄ and NO₃ in groundwater. In surface water, Group 1 comprised of TDS, EC, SO₄, NO₃, Cl, Zn, pH and Ca. Group 2 accounted for Mg and F and Group 3 for Fe, Mn, TA, Pb, As and Cr. The interrelationships between the contaminants depicted by cluster analysis, categorize the contamination levels. Factor analyses were applied for understanding the interrelationships between the variables and for identifying probable source components. Six factors justifying 83.64% of the total variance in groundwater and five factors describing 81.92% of the total variance in surface water were found responsible for variation in the data structure. The relative contribution of all the water-quality parameters was best explained by discriminant analysis.

4 illus, 7 tables, 43 ref

001053   Bhatta G D;Aggarwal P K;Kristjanson P; Shrivastava A K (NO, CGIAR Research Program on Climate Change, Agriculture and Food Securit, South Asia) : Climatic and non-climatic factors influencing changing agricultural practices across different rainfall regimes in South Asia. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1272-81.

Using data from a household survey of 2660 farmfamilies in Bihar state of Eastern India, Terai of Nepal and coastal Bangladesh, we explore the significance of climatic and non-climatic factors in affecting farmers' decision to change their farming practices over time in a wide range of environments. We find evidence across all sites, irrespective of rainfall and climatic stresses, that market-related forces (such as higher yields and better market opportunity) and resource issues (such as declining fertility, labour shortage and biotic factors) have been a strong driver of changes in farming practices over the last ten years relative to climatic factors. Food sufficient households are likely more adaptable to a changing climate, as they are undertaking new agricultural practices. The results suggest that social protection measures aimed at enhancing the food security situation of marginal and smallholder households will increase the likelihood of them being in a better position to innovate and adopt improved agricultural practices. Our findings also indicate that additional strategies and policies aimed at more widespread uptake of new agricultural practices will also be needed, and will have to be targeted to particular environments and vulnerable groups, and special attention to institutional, resource management and market development issues if they are to succeed.

4 illus, 4 tables, 44 ref

001052   Asmita;Singh A K;Sisodia A;Pal A K;Hembrom R (Floriculture & Landscaping Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, Email: asmitakumari97@gmail.com) : Response of zinc and copper to growth, flowering and bulb yield attributes in asiatic lily cv albedo. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(3A), 1272-5.

The experiment was conducted under polyhouse condition. The treatments used were Zn 0.2%, Zn 0.4%, Cu 0.2%, Cu 0.49%;, Zo 0.2% + Co 0.2%, Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.4%, Zn 0.4% + Cu 0.2%. Zn 0.4% + Cu 0.4% along with control (distilled water). Foliar spray of zinc and copper was done at 30 days after sowing. Foliar application of these nutrients was done to run-off stage and control plants were treated in the same manner with distilled water. These treatments were replicated thrice in a randomized block design (RBD). All the parameter responded significantly due to application of zinc and copper. Treatment Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.2% showed significant increase in the number of leaves/plant followed by Zn 0.4%; whereas; Zn 0.4% + Cu 0.4% recorded maximum leaf area index followed by Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.4%. Maximum stem diameter was observed with Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.4% while, Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.2% resulted in maximum plant height followed by Zn 0.4% + Cu 0.2%, Among flowering parameters early flowering was noticed in Zn. 0.2% + Cu 0.2%. Maximum flower stalk length was observed in Zn 0.4% whereas; Zn 0.4% recorded maximum pedicel length-Treatment Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.2% resulted into maximum number of flowers which was at par with Zn 0.4%. Among the bulb parameters, maximum, weight and diameter of bulb was obtained with Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.4% whereas, maximum weight and number of bulb-lets/plant was recorded with Zn 0.4%. Treatment Zn 0.2% + Cu 0.2% resulted in maximum number of scales/ plant.

3 tables, 15 ref

001051   Arun Kumar A;Sivakumar R (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Chandrabani, Dehradun-248 001, Email: arunkumar.gis@gmail.com) : Marine debris - the global problem least studies in India. Curr Sci 2016, 110(7), 1153-4.

The accumulation of macro- and micro-debris is a growing concern in the oceans and coastlines all over the world. However, the debris characteristics, accumulation and transport pathways along the Indian coastline remain poorly studied. Marine debris is not just an aesthetic problem; it poses a serious threat to marine organisms, ecosystems, human health and navigational safety. Despite the increased international attention, the build-up of these materials along the Indian coastline and coastal waters is poorly understood or reported. Since the debris problem is global, curbing the issue in our coasts is not a single-step process. Nevertheless, assessment and monitoring of this debris along the beaches, coastal waters and on the seabed is crucial for understanding the dynamics of debris movement and subsidence.

26 ref

000031   Ziarati P;Mohammad-Makki F M;Moslehishad M (Young Research & Elite Club, Pharmaceutical Sciences Branch, Islamic Azad Univ, (IAUPS), Tehran, Iran, Email: ziarati.p@iaups.ac.ir) : Novel adsorption method for contaminated water by wild endemic almond: Anygdalus scoparia. Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 147-53.

Many of the water systems keep ecosystems thriving and feed a growing human population have become stressed. Water pollution especially heavy metal contamination is a major global problem and it is leading to deaths and diseases. In this study the potential of wild endemic almond: Amygdalus scoparia shell was assessed for adsorption of heavy metal ions such as Pb²⁺, Ni²⁺, Cr⁶⁺ and Cr³⁺ from aqueous solution. A. Scoparia fruits were collected in July 2014 from Sirmand Mountains near Hadji-Abad County, Hormozgan province and the mountains in Gnow protected area, Bandar-Abbas, Hormozgan province in Iran, respectively. Analyzing of Pb, Ni and Cr (III) and Cr (VI) concentrations performed using Inductively Coupled Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometry (ICP-AES). Adsorption capacity of Cr (VI), Cr(III), Pb and Ni onto modified almond shells by phosphoric acid was investigated in a batch system by considering the effects of various parameters like contact time, initial concentrations, pH, temperature, absorbent dose and particle size. The adsorption was pH solution dependent and the maximum adsorption was observed at solution pH of 3.23. Moreover, contents of different heavy metals in the contaminated water showed significant (p <60>0.05) and positive correlation with contents of Pb (r = +82 to r = +96), Cr⁶⁺ (r = +74 to r = +94), Cr³⁺ (r = +84 to r = +98), Ni (r = +33 to r = +42) in the waste water and A. Scoparia modified shell, respectively. The amounts of Cr (VI) adsorbed increased significantly with increase in dose of A. scoparia adsorbent (p<60>0.05) and their contact time (p<60>0.05). The results of this study revealed that A. scoparia can accumulate high level of lead, Chrome (VI) and (III) in a short time and their uptake rate by plant is significantly affected by their concentrations in the contaminated water (p<60>0.005). A contact time of 48 hours by almond shell was found to be optimum and 87.1% Cr (VI), 89.8% Cr(III), 84.4% Pb and 48.1% Ni was removed. Experimental results showed that low cost bio-sorbent was effective for the removal of pollutants from aqueous solution.

3 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

000030   Shelar P;Shelar G S;Mugaonkar P;Padmavathy P;Shrinivasan A;Marks K K (College of Fisheries, , Ratnagiri-415 612) : Heavy metal concentration in coastal water of Tuticorin contaminated by thermal power plant effulent. Bioinfolet 2016, 13(4), 619-22.

The coolant water discharge area of the thermal power plant of Tuticorin has been investigated during November 2011 to May 2012. Maximum copper (0.083mg/l), zinc (5.25 mg/l), iron (0.077mg/l) and aluminium (6.75mg/l) contents, observed during present investigation were slightly higher due to the discharge of thermal effluent. These heavy metals were present in the order of Al <62> Fe <62> Cu <62> Zn.

22 ref

000029   Patial P;Sudhir Kumar;Hassan M A;Mishra A P (Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR), , Barrackpore, Kolkata-700 120, Email: patialpankaj24@rediffmail.com) : Physico-chemical profile of Sakari Chaur, a flood plain wetland of Vaishali district in Bihar. Envir Ecol 2015, 33(3), 1044-7.

The present study attempts to examine some of the physico-chemical parameters of the water samples of the Sakari Cham: Physical parameters like depth, transparency, air and water temperatures, and chemical factors like pH, dissolve oxygen, free CO₂, total alkalinity carbonate alkalinity, bicarbonate alkalinity, conductivity, total Kjeldhal nitrogen, phosphate, total hardness, Ca and Mg were studied. All the parameters were found to be fluctuating within the permissible limits indicating the scope of aquaculture in the Chaur.

2 tables, 15 ref

000028   Mobin S M;Azmat R (Chemistry Dep, Karachi Univ, Main Univ Road, Karachi 75270, Sindh, Pakistan, Email: rafiasaeed200@uok.edu.pk) : Impact of improper household solid waste management on environment: a case study of Karachi city, Pakistan. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(12), 4523-6.

Karachi is facing tremendous pressure of household solid waste (HSW) management (6000 tons per day). To identify the contribution of HSW in polluting the environment in Karachi, Cu was analyzed in soil, water, dust and plant samples from Deh Jam Chakro HSW landfill facility and compared to corresponding unpolluted samples. Copper is an important metal, nutrient, toxicant and ecological indicator. Samples from the landfill facility were analyzed quarterly for 1 1/2 years, to identify the propagation of Cu from HSW to soil, water, dust and plants. Soil of landfill facility had higher [Cu] (199.452 ppm) compared with soil from unpolluted area (Cu = 42.587 ppm). Moreover the temporal increase in [Cu] in soil of landfill facility exhibited sinusoidal pattern. [Cu] in water (4.510 ppm), dust (47.909 ppm) and plant (Prosopis juliflora 28.124 ppm) was identified to be correlated with [Cu] in soil in a complex relation, nevertheless the general trend in [Cu] was established to be towards increase.

5 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

000027   Kharlamova M K;Mada S Y;Grachev V A (Ecological Dep, Peoples Friendship Univ of Russia, 113093, Podolskoe roadway, 8/5, Moscow, Russia) : Landfills: problems, solution and decision-making of waste disposal in Harare (Zimbabwe). Biosci Biotechnol Res Asia 2016, 13(1), 307-18.

Selection of a suitable site for constructing a new landfill is one of the most challenging issues for town planners in developing countries. A study was conducted to locate the most suitable site for constructing a sanitary landfill in the city of Harare using Geospatial techniques and Multi-Criteria Evaluation. To identify appropriate landfill sites, nine input map layers including proximity to settlements/built up area, proximity to protected areas, proximity to airports, proximity to road and railway networks, surface water, slope, elevation and soil type were used for mapping, analysis and evaluation. Each criterion was identified and weighted using Analytic Hierarchy Process. A final map was generated which identified potential areas for the location of a landfill site. Results revealed that 1.31% of the total area of Harare was identified as mostly suitable, 24.73% as moderately suitable to suitable and 76.96% as unsuitable to construct a sanitary landfill. Six sites were identified as most suitable sites for a landfill. These selected sites require further geotechnical and hydrogeological analyses to identify the final site in the city to construct a sanitary landfill.

15 illus, 7 tables, 15 ref

000026   Kamal K T;Lotfi K;Omar K D;Mohamed R E; Abueliz K M;Nassir H (Chemistry Dep, College of Science, AI Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic Univ, P.O. Box:5701, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: kamaltha99@rediffmail.com) : Heavy metal concentrations in fish from red sea and arabian gulf: health benefits and risk assessment due to their concumption. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(12), 4411-16.

Seafood contains heavy metals essential to human health and also contaminants that can induce toxicity into consumers. In order to evaluate the benefits and risks to human health, this study targeted the analysis of Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Zn, Al and Se as essential elements and Cd, Pb and As as toxic elements in the muscle tissues of two popular types of fish: Areolate grouper (Epinephelus areolatus, local name; Hamoor) and Coral Trout (Plectropomus maculatus, local name; Najil) from the Red Sea and Arabian Gulf, Saudi Arabia. The metals under investigation were determined using inductively couples plasma emission spectroscopy after wet digestion. The concentration of essential elements were found to decrease in the order: Zn <62> Fe <62> Al <62> Cu <62> Se <62> Ni <62> Cr <62> Mn while the toxic elements in the order: As <62> Pb <62> Cd. The study revealed that P. maculatus from both study areas bioaccumulate more Cd, Cr, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb and Se compared to E. areolatus while both species from the Red Sea accumulate more As. Arsenic, Cd and Pb target hazard quotient (THQ) values were less than 1.0 indicating a safe consumption of this types of fish. Moreover the cancer risk factor for As was more than the 10^-5 threshold permitted life risk for the different exposure frequencies. The number of meals per week a frequent monitoring of metals content of fish to safeguard consumers.

7 tables, 87 ref

023275   Upadhyay V K (Researcher, Geography Dep, Jai Narayan Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 005) : The growing influence of industrialization on the management of traditional water resources. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2016, 24(2), 179-81.

Marwar Region is famous for managing water resource in traditional way, For Example; Talab, Nadi, Beri, Tanka, Bavdi. But in last few years, continuous increase in population and industrialization degraded these traditional resources adversely. As a Result, these resources have reached at a critical stage. Over the past several years, the demand of water is continuously increasing in agricultural, industrial and domestic sector. In arid and semi-arid region, due to paucity of surface water, there is total dependency on groundwater resources to a great extent. In many areas of Rajasthan, alarming trends of groundwater contamination have been reported due to discharge of untreated industrial effluents. Pali city is one of the main city of Rajasthan which is facing the problem of water contamination due to discharge from wide spread dyeing industry into the Bandi River. The Industries discharge a variety of chemicals, dyes, acids and alkalis besides heavy metals and other toxic compounds that shortened the life span of Bandi River and affected the ground level of nearby areas. The influx of industrial effluent discharged into the Bandi River has not only degraded the quality of water, but also ruined most of the wells located in the vicinity. At a time wells were the only source of fresh water for irrigation and domestic use, now these has abandoned due to salinity. The local villagers are practicing agricultural activities and allied activities for 2-3 km. far away from the buffer zone of the Bandi River. But in last few years, industrial effluents are treated by CETPs (Common Effluent Treatment Plants) to reduce the problem of water pollution to some extent.

7 ref

023274   Tripathi R B;Singh N K;Tewari D D;Shukla A K;Singh I (Zoology Dep, M.L.K.P.G. College, Balrampur, Uttar Pradesh, Email: drrbtripathi.77@gmail.com) : Evaluating the physico-chemical characteristics of municipal solid waste in Balarampur city, Uttar Pradesh. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 79-85.

Study shows an assessment of the existing situation of municipal solid waste management (MSWM) in Balrampur City. The quantity and composition of MSW vary from place to place and bear a rather consistant correlation with the average standard of living. Field investigations were carried out for quantification, analysis of physico-chemical composition and characterization in disposal site. Studies carried out in these places have revealed that there are many shortcomings in the existing practices used in managing the MSW. These shortcomings pertain mainly to indequate manpower, financial resources, implements and machinery required for effectively carrying out various activities for MSWM. Various adopted treatment technologies for MSW are critically reviewed, along with their advantage and limitations. The study is concluded with a few fruitful suggestions, which may be beneficial to encourage the competent authorities/ researchers to work towards further improvement of the present system.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

023273   Singh M;Reena Kumari (IGNOU Regional Centre, , Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, Email: reenakumari@ignou.co.in) : Environmental issues and challenges in India. Flora Fauna 2016, 22(1), 49-57.

Man has made natural environment more hospitable through rapid advancement in modern sciences, technology and medication. He has crossed all ecological borders and disrupted the fragile intricately woven web of life. As a result he is facing increasing and continuing death and destruction from the environment which he has disturbed. The pollution in the environment adversely affects the health and ill health affects the academic, economic, social development of a person. The environmental pollution generates the various types of communicable diseases and ultimately deaths. Thus, to prevent the people from these morbidities the environmental education is required regarding cleaning, hygiene, sanitation and preventive measures.

2 illus, 10 ref

023272   Richa Kumari;Punam;Panda A K;Atul (Organic Agriculture Dep, CSK-Himachal Pradesh Agricultural Univ, Palampur-176 062, Email: profpunam@gmail.com) : Agnihotra effect on microbial contamination of air. Bioscan 2015, 10(2), 667-9.

In the present study, the effect of agnihotra practices was observed on the microbiological quality of air in an organic environment at Palampur. Air quality of Agnihotra and Non - Agnihotra rooms were compared by collecting samples at three different time interval viz. half an hour before, at the time of agnihotra and half an hour after agnihotra using Settle Plate Method and blood agar as medium. It was observed that the total number of mesophilic colony units per plate (cfu/plate) was higher (70 cfu) in non - agnihotra room as compared to agnihotra room (23 cfu). The average thermophillic count per plate was also found to be 3 cfu in non - agnihotra room whereas, it was not detected in agnihotra room. The present findings indicate that the agnihotra practices have an adverse effect on the pathogenic micro-organisms (especially on those growing at higher temperature) and total microbial load of the air.

1 table, 17 ref

023271   Qureshi N A;Naz F;Saher N U (Zoology Dep, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 3800, Pakistan, Email: naureenaziz.qureshi@gmail.com) : Variations in distribution and abundance of meiobenthos communities in mangrove creek areas along the coast of Karachi, Pakistan.. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 546-55.

Study on meiofaunal assemblages in relation to environmental and biological parameters was carried out from two stations in Korangi and Phitti mangrove creek system along the coast of Karachi, Pakistan during January 1999 to December 1999. Various meiofauna taxa were identified from the sample procured during the low tide. Average meiobenthos abundance was low (4933±7390 ind./ 10 cm^-2) during SW monsoon periods and highest (10134±16663 ind./ 10 cm^-2) in pre monsoon period. Significant differences were observed between stations (F _{1, 47} = 15.67, P <60> 0.05), (F _{1, 47} = 4.43, P <60> 0.05) in 500 μm and 63 μm fraction. The foraminifera and nematodes were usually the most dominant taxon, contributed up to 42% and 37%, respectively, in 63 μm fraction size followed by harpacticoid copepods, gastropods, turbellarians, lamellibranch, ostracoda, gnathostomulida, polychaeta, sarcomastigophora, oligocheata, cnidaria, amphipoda, chaetognaths, evadne, holothuroidea, Cirripede nauplii, protozoea, eggs, syncarida and other meiofaunal taxa (6.8%). The data were subjected to factor and correlation analysis to determine the grouping pattern of meiofauna and their relationship to their environment. Meiobenthos in 63 μm fraction was significantly correlated with MD (P = 0.437) and MZφ (P = 0.564) and negatively correlated with sorting coefficient phi σl φ and SK φ. The Principal Component Analyses PCA was performed for the two separate data set of both stations. Five factors were made in the PCA at Phitti creek and the six factors were extracted for Port Qasim data set. The first principal component leading mode, explains 25% and 19.5%, and the second principal component accounted for 19.9% and 16.4% in Phitti creek and Port Qasim respectively.

4 illus, 4 tables, 54 ref

023270   Qayyum S;Khan I;Meng K;Zang X;Gu Q;Peng C (The Key Lab of Marine Environment Science and Ecology, Ministry of Ed, Ocean University of China, Oingdao 266100, China, Email: pcs005@ouc.edu.cn) : Bioaccumulation of heavy metals from aqueous solution using indigenous fungal isolates. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 499-507.

Twenty six fungal strains were isolated from heavy metals contaminated soil of which A. flavus (F4) and R. pusillus (F6) were the most dominant. Growth of isolates were noticed by Pb, Cr and Cd concentration in the growth medium in one- step and two- step process, thus about seven isolates can grow upto 10mg (Pb,Cr, Cd)/100ml medium. The formulation of Sabouraud dextrose broth (SDB) medium fortified the isolates by ingredients and favored the best growth yields that have the highest biosorption, compared to Chashi medium (CM) and Yeast peptone glucose (YPG) medium. Thus, 99% of Pb and Cr were absorbed in biosorption medium containing 10mg Pb and Cr in 100ml medium while 77% of Cd was absorbed in the biosorption medium containing 10mg Cd in 100ml medium. Uptake capacity of resistant fungal isolates against heavy metals was checked in different medium. With respect to Pb, Cd and Cr maximum uptake of 39.58, 68.02 and 68.87mg.g^-1 was observed by fungi Rhizomucor pusillus (F6) and Aspergillus flavus (F4). This indicated the potential of these identified fungi as biosorbent for removal of high concentration metals from soil and industrial effluents and also it was observed that efficiency of two-step process is better than the one-step process.

3 illus, 3 tables, 43 ref

023269   Narayanan R M;Sharmila K J;Dharanirajan K (NO, Dr. M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, University, Chennai-600 095, Email: narayanan.rm@gmail.com) : Evaluation of marine water quality - a case study between Cuddalore and Pondicherry coast, India. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 517-32.

In the present study the physico-chemical parameters were determined at 19 stations to assess water quality status. Nitrate concentrations were considerably higher in the hotspots (stations 6, 7, 10 and 16) where the industrial discharges mixes with coastal waters. (5.5-7.1 μmol/l) compared to near shore coastal waters where values were about 2 μmol/l. The highest concentrations of ammonia are found where bacterial denitrification processes utilise nitrate and thereby generate nitrogen and ammonia along the stations 6,7,10 and 16 due to the decomposition of organic substances from sewage. Total phosphorus concentrations above 0.21 μmol/l and especially or 0.315 μmol/l along the region favor the growth cyanobacteria. From the nutrient data, it was found that during the post monsoon the N/P ratio ranged from a low value of 4.32 (Porto-Novo 10 km station) and a high (13.11) nearly reaching the ratio of 16:1 at the Pondicherry hotspot. During the monsoon the N/P ratio at the Cuddalore 10 km station was low (4.23) with a maxima of 11.06 at the Cuddalore hot spot during low tide. The lower N/P ratio observed during the study period indicated that coastal waters from Pondicherry to Porto-Novo were nitrogen (N) limited. As per the Central Pollution Control Board standards the observed values were well within the permissible range for the parameters pH 6.5-8.5 and DO above 4 mg/l. The hotspot locations showed considerable Dissolved Oxygen (DO) under saturation typically about 65% with respect to atmospheric equilibrium.

10 illus, 7 tables, 58 ref

023268   Mittal S;Kumar C P (NO, National Institute of Hydrology, Roorkee-247 667) : Impact of climate change on agriculture. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2016, 24(2), 187-90.

Agriculture and climate change are inextricably linked - crop yield, biodiversity, and water use, as well as soil health are directly affected by a changing climate. Climate change, which is largely a result of burning fossil fuels, is already affecting the earth's temperature, precipitation, and hydrological cycle. Continued changes in the frequency and intensity of precipitation, heat waves, and other extreme events are likely, all which will impact agricultural production. Furthermore, compounded climate factors can decrease plant productivity, resulting in price increases for many important agricultural crops. This paper presents probable impacts of climate change on agriculture.

1 illus, 5 ref

023267   Mahadeva M M;Devagiri G M (Forestry and Environmental Science Dep, Agricultural Science Univ, Gandhi Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Bangalore-560 065, Email: mmmurthy@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of soil chemical properties as effected by forest fire in Rajiv Gandhi national park, Karnataka. Adv appl Res 2015, 7(1), 47-49.

A study on the effect of forest fire on soil chemical properties was conducted in Coorg district, Karnataka during the year 2010 - 2011, in five forest ranges of Rajiv Gandhi National Park (RGNP) using random sampling technique with a sampling intensity of 10 quadrats (10 m x 10 m) per range. Soil samples were collected from each quadrat at 0 - 15 cm depth and analysed for pH, exchangeable cations, organic matter, available phosphorus and potassium. The observations of the study indicated a reduction in organic matter content due to forest fire at all selected sites. Whereas the pH, organic matter content, available phosphorus and available potassium increased due to the effect of forest fire when compared to the control, which indicated the release of plant nutrients.

023266   Katsura H (Institute of Product Design & Manufacturing, Universiti Kuala Lumpur, 119 Jalan 7/91, Taman Shamelin Perkasa, 3.5 Miles, Cheras, 56100 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia) : Variation of anion concentration in aerosol at Mt. Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(11), 4138-40.

Aerosol field sampling was conducted at Mt. Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia in September 2009 and November 2009. The samples were analyzed for anions using ion chromatography. The results indicated that the anion concentrations of aerosol at the cloud-shrouded mountain were remarkable. The clouds at the mountain did not have F^- and the concentrations of Cl^-, NO^2- and NO^3- were low, in spite of the sampling duration being 24 times that of the other samplings. The result implied that the clouds had some effect on the aerosol concentration.

4 illus, 1 table, 18 ref

023265   Joshi D K;Singh R N;Joshi D K (NO, , ) : Global warming and renewable energy sources for sustainable development in India. J Alternate Energy Sour Technol 2015, 6(3), 46-52.

India, with its young population and its per capita increasing energy demand becoming one of the fast growing power markets of the world from the last two decades. It is expected that the demand for electricity consumption in India is expected to rise to around 2280 billion kWh by 2021-22 and around 4500 billion kWh by 2031-32 with 9.8% annual growth. India energy requirement is heavily dependent on fossil fuel and unfortunately about 70% fossil fuel in India is imported from other country. It places a big burden on the Indian economy apart from air pollution of the country. In this analysis, renewable energy resources appear to be the most competent among other sources and a useful solution for clean and sustainable energy development in India. India's geographical location has several advantages for widespread use of most of these renewable energy sources. This article presents an evaluation of the prospective and operation of the renewable energy sources in India.

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023264   Henry M U;Egila J N (Basic Science and General Studies Dep, Federal College of Forestry Jos, Nigeria) : Evaluation of ambient air quality in selected high, medium and low density areas of Kaduna metropolis, Nigeria. Int J chem Stud 2016, 4(6), 12-21.

Ambient air around Kaduna metropolis was monitored using continuous analyzers for SO₂ NO₂, CO₂, CO, CH₄ and PM during wet and dry seasons presented using four urban locations and a control for one year from February 2013 to December 2013. The sites are: Industrial area/medium traffic volume, High population density/ high traffic volume, Medium population/ high traffic volume, Low population/ medium traffic, and Low population/ low traffic volume, as the control. Correlations among pollutants concentration and linear regression established. Air pollution index calculated. The overall concentration levels for SO₂, NO₂ CO₂, CO, CH₄ and PM were 0.34±0.08, 0.32±0.10, 2.70±0.29, 0.32±0.06, 0.29±0.10 and 39.91±3.33μg/m³ respectively. However the values were within the limit of NAAQS except for NO₂ which recorded 0.32ppm as against 0.1ppm. Strong positive significant correlations were established among pollutant concentrations (p≤0.05). API calculated was moderate and showed that none or few may likely to be affected.

15 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

023263   Dhyani R;Sharma N;Vaishya A;Singh M (Environmental Science Div, CSIR-Central Road Research Institute, New Delhi-110 025) : Assessment of fuel choices and associated health effects on women in hilly regions of Uttarakhand. Bhartiya Vaigyanik Evam Audyogik Anusandhan Patrika 2016, 24(2), 135-44.

In India, nearly 86% of rural households use biomass for cooking. Easy availability of fuel wood and prolonged winters increases its usage particularly in hilly regions. In rural hilly regions, fuel is primarily used for cooking, water heating and space heating purposes. A study was carried out in three villages namely Naugaon, Mawana and Kota from the Pauri district of Uttarakhand to identify the current status of fuel consumption pattern of rural areas in a hilly region. A questionnaire was prepared comprising the queries related to socio-economic status, choice of fuels for cooking, health and social awareness among women. It was observed that fuel wood is preferred fuel choice due to its low cost and easy availability. Socio-economic factors, inconsistent supply of fuels like LPG and geographical locations of the villages discourages the people of these villages to switch to cleaner fuel. In the present study, due to economic, social and geographic location, fuel wood seems to be a viable option. Further, government and public participation practices like social forestry, joint forest management could be adopted to ensure the sustainable, regular and cheap availability of fuel. Adverse health impacts of fuel wood could be reduced by using improved cook stove(s) and by making conventional kitchens well ventilated.

1 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

023262   Barik K K;Mitra D;Annadurai R;Tripathy J K; Nanda S (School of Civil Engineering, SRM University, Kattankulathur, Chennai-603 203, Email: kamalkuumar@gmail.com) : Geospatial analysis of coastal environment: A case study on Bhitarkanika Mangroves, East coast of India. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 492-8.

Present study was carried out to classify and map the mangrove vegetation as well as erosion and accretion rate along coastal tract of Bhitarkanika, east coast of India using Landsat 7 and 8 satellite data from the year 1989 to 2013.The study resulted different classes like dense mangroves, sparse mangroves and mangroves scrub of mangrove environment. Erosion and accretion rate of Bhitarkanika coast were identified through supervised classification technique. Results of classified image concluded that the changes of sparse mangroves were +2892.78 ha, dense mangroves -350.55 ha. and mangrove scrub +1792.35 ha. Similarly the rate of erosion was 35.6238 sq. km. towards Gahirmatha beach and the deposition of 8.2134 sq. km. near the Maipura river of Bhitarkanika ecosystem from 1989 to 2013.

7 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

023261   Babaci H;Aksas K;Louhab K (Laboratoire de Technologie Alimentaire, Faculty of Engineer Science, Boumerdes Univ, Boumerdes 35000, Algeria, Email: louhab_ka@yahoo.fr) : Biosorption of anionic dye bezaktiv yellow HE-4G on mixture of olive stone and date pits in packed bed column. Asian J Chem 2015, 27(11), 4029-33.

In this paper, the adsorption of anionic dye Bezaktiv Yellow HE-4G onto mixture biosorbent, olive stones and date pits was investigated in packed bed column. The effect of operational parameter such as initial dye concentration, flow rate and height bed was evaluated. Thomas model was used to describe the adsorption data. Adjunction date pits to the mixture increase the per cent of dye adsorbent it is about 19 to 43.23% when the date pits was added to the mixture between 12 to 15%. The results indicated that the mixture of date pits and olive stone could be used as an adsorbent for textile waste water treatment without high cost.

4 illus, 7 tables, 16 ref

023260   Anirudh Ram;Nageswar Rao M;Shailesh S; Vaibhav J;Rakesh P S;Gajbhiye S N (Regional Centre, CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Mumbai-400 053, Email: anirudhram@nio.org) : Impact of accidental leakage of furnace oil on Mahul creek mangrove vegetation. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(4), 477-81.

Pipeline carrying furnace/black oil from Butcher Island to the petrochemical complex at Mahul in Mumbai started leaking during 3rd week of October 2013 and went unnoticed till first week of November 2013. The alignment of the pipeline is through an intertidal mudflat (0.240 km²) and about 0.052 km² area covered by luxuriant mangrove growth, mainly of Avicenniamarina (Forssk). On 36th day after the notification of oil spill incident, a field study was carried out to assess the impact on mangroves that were found dead due to smothering of their breathing roots with oil. Sediment core (40cm) samples were collected from the intertidal region showed high accumulation of Petroleum Hydrocarbons (PHc, 1496 μg/g wet wt) at 2 cm sediment depth. The concentration of PHc at 20cm and 40cm of the core was 25 μg/g and 58 μg/g wet wt. Such variation in the sediment core may be due to anthropogenic perturbation.

3 illus, 21 ref

023259   Akilan M;Nandhakumar S (NO, Adhiparasakthi Agricultural College, Kalavai-632 506, Email: drakilanm@gmail.com) : Air pollution tolerance index of selected plants in industrial and urban areas of Vellore district. Agric Sci Dig 2016, 36(1), 66-8.

The impact of air pollutants on the biochemical characters of the selected plant species from industrial and urban areas was studied by calculating ascorbic acid, total chlorophyll, leaf extract pH and relative water content from leaf tissues. The air pollution tolerance index (APTI) values of the selected plants of different study areas revealed that the APTI values of the plants at the College Farm recorded low compared to Arcot and Ranipet transporation and industrial areas. Among the selected plant species, higher APTI values were recorded from the industrial and urban areas. when compared to areas free from industries and transport. The four selected plant species viz. Neerium oleander, Tamarindus indicus, Azardirecta indica and Pungamiapinnata, Neerium oleander recorded higher APTI values from the industrial and transportation that revealed more tolerance than the other selected plants. The statistical results revealed that Arcot was more polluted compared to Ranipet, and the college farm recorded least polluted due to less exposure to industries, transport and urbanization.

4 tables, 14 ref

023258   Ahmed F A M;Khogali F A;Mohamed A H (Fisheries and Wildlife Science Dep, College of Animal Production Science and Technology, Sudan Univ of Science and Technology, Khartoum North, Sudan, Email: fawzil22@gmail.com) : Determination of water quality in three sudanese reservoir dams. Int J chem Stud 2016, 4(5), 39-43.

The main objective of this study is to assess some water quality parameters (ph, dissolved oxygen, total ammonia, water hardness, alkalinity, nitrate, and phosphorus) in Jebel Aulia, Sennar, and Marawi dams up and downstream. Some physical and chemical water characteristics were studied in the three localities Jebel Aulia, Sennar and Marawi dams both upstream and downstream. This shows the variation in Alkalinity, hardness in the three localities in each season but it also indicate the similarly in other parameters e.g. pH, Ammonia and Nitrate and very slight variation in dissolved oxygen. The levels of the parameters determined were within the acceptable ranges for domestic water purposes and fish production. Statistical analysis was performed using the Analysis of variance one way (ANOVA) and Duncan's multiple Range Test, to determine differences between parameters means at significance rate of (P<60>0.05). All statistics was carrying out using SPSS version (16).

6 illus, 22 ref

022230   VikranthPridhvi Y;Musalaiah M (NO, , ) : Review on water and sewage water treatment process. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2015, 5(1), 225-31.

Rapid industrialization is going all over the world, especially in the developing countries. Because, the major source of country's income will comes through the industries. The increasing in the number of the industries, pollute the environment by releasing the toxic gases and toxic waste into the air and water thus contributing the air and water pollution respectively. As a result, the air and water quality of the surrounding villages will be put in danger. So, periodic survey has to be done by the industry/government/state or central pollution control boards, in order to investigate the concentration of various air and water pollutants in the industry surrounding villages.

13 ref

022229   Ustad I (Zoology Dep, Sir Sayyed College, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Study to assess the effect of ground water quality and its impact on human health of people of Osmanabad district India. Int J pharm chem biol Sci 2015, 5(3), 708-11.

Water is the basic necessity of our life and it is an important natural resource which form's the core of natural ecological system. I have tried our best to study the local water conditions scientifically along with past history. Due the increase of population limited source of water we have tried to full fill the need of water from various sources like the dug wells, tube wells, local water bodies (lake and pond) and from the river from Oesmanabad District. Since last five years it is observed that people who are dependent upon the tube wells are suffering from some of the disease like constipation, kidney problem, hair loss, graying of hair, acidity etc. i. Objective of study is to find out the quality of groundwater and its impact on mankind. ii. To know more about the chemicals present in the groundwater in different areas (Ca &Mg), iii. To find out the effect of excessive ground water calcium on human health. Data has been collected through experimental method and observation. The result of chemical analysis of water shows that water of tube wells contains calcium carbonate, bicarbonate, magnesium carbonate in excess (more then standard limits) this excess of calcium is the responsible for the above mentioned diseases. Public awareness for the use of this groundwater is done by contacting thepeople and by public of this area also the news paper etc. Some remedial methods also suggested for the use of this water. I am sure if people take precautions they can be protected from such diseases and they can enjoy healthy and cheerful life.

10 ref

022228   Turner N J (NO, School of Environmental Studies, PO Box 1700 STN, Univ of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, V8W 2Y2, Email: nturner@uvic.ca) : "We give them seaweed": Social economic exchange and resilience in Northwestern North America. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2016, 15(1), 5-15.

First Peoples of Northwestern North America have a long tradition of exchange governed by formal and informal cultural institutions. Plants and botanical products have been a major component of this tradition. Not just economic transactions, the exchange systems were parts of a complex cultural economy that provided dietary diversity, more knowledge and technologies, opportunities for enhanced intergroup relationships, new beliefs and perspectives, and greater resilience in times of instability. These systems changed dramatically with the arrival of Europeans into the region, with new products being incorporated. Ultimately, however, the cultural economy of First Peoples diminished as they acculturated into mainstream society and into the globalized, industrialized economy. Nevertheless, elements of the original cultural economy exist to the present day. Three major components of these systems include: a philosophy of mutual reciprocity; differing needs and access to different resources and/or skills by individuals and communities; and opportunities for interaction and communication where exchange can occur in culturally appropriate ways. Through helping to create and maintain these conditions, all of society can provide meaningful support for First Nations' cultural renewal and well-being.

2 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

022227   Tharasawatpipat C;Suwannahong K;Kruenate J; Kreetachat T (Environmental Engineering Dep, School of Energy and Environment, Phayao Univ, Phayao 56000, Thailand, Email: torpong.kr@up.ac.th) : Removal of VOCs by photocatalytic oxidation using nano-TiO₂/PLA biocomposite. J envir Biol 2015, 36(3), 617-21.

Poly (lactic acid) or PLA has been challenging as one of the most recognizable biopolymer for more than a decade since it has been readily fabricated as biocomposite film. In the present study, biocomposite film, which composed of PLA and nano-TiO₂ particles, were used as a carrier to modify volatile organic compound (VOCs) removal efficiency by photocatalytic oxidation, using the nano-TiO₂/PLA biocomposite film as a photocatalyst. Since the amount of nano-TiO₂ affected the efficiency of photocatalytic activity, the present study mainly focused at the effort to embed high amount of nano-TiO₂ in PLA matrix. Therefore, the developed nano-TiO₂/PLA biocomposite films were characterized for physical properties by Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM),UV-VIS spectrophotometer, and X-ray diffractometer (XRD). The SEM images revealed the presence of high homogeneity of the deposition of nano-TiO₂ on PLA matrix. The XRD patterns interpreted that the nano-TiO₂ embedded in PLA matrix exhibited mainly in anatase form. In addition, photodegradation results showed that DCM removal efficiencies were 41.2%, 63.4% and 49.1% when using the nano-TiO₂/PLA biocomposite films loading at TiO₂5.0%, 10.0% and 15.0%wt.cat./wt.film., respectively. The present study emphasises the use of Nato-TiO₂/PLA as promising photo catalyst for degradation of VOC.

4 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

022226   TamilSelvi S;SamuelSelvaraj R (Physics Dep, Research Centre, Bharathiar Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, Email: tssekar9773@gmail.com) : Chaotic analysis of daily and weekly rainfall timeseries over Chennai. J Indian Geophys Union 2016, 20(6), 566-74.

In this work the reconstruction of phase space and G-P algorithm (correlation dimension) are used to study the chaotic characteristics of daily and weekly rainfall at Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The results show that the daily and weekly rainfall series have a low dimensional chaos. This is also verified using Lyapunov exponent method, which is used to confirm the presence of chaos.The maximum Lyapunov exponent is used to calculate the predictability time. The essential number of parameters in the embedding dimension for the two series were calculated to be 2. The sufficient number of parameters were calculated to be 4 and 6 respectively. The presence of large number of zeros in the high resolution time series may result in underestimation of the dimension, still correlation dimension is the elementary test for the chaos identification. The embedding dimension calculated from the correlation dimension givesthe underlining number of parameters to be used in the forecast model.

11 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

022225   Srivastava R;Sidiqqui H;Singh R K;Arvind Kumar (Zoology Dep, Magadh Univ, Bodhgaya) : Effects of sewage on physico-chemical characteristics and macro-zoobenthic community of ponds at Goh, Bihar. J Envir Biosci 2015, 29(1), 253-5.

Effects of sewage on macro-benthic community and physico-chemical characteristics of Ponds water at Goh, Bihar have been investigated during July 2008 to June 2009. Altogether 20 species of macro-benthic organism were collected and their abundance was noted. Continued disposal of sewage into Pond has deteriorated its water quality. The Zoobenthic communites clearly indicate the degree of Pollution.

2 tables, 10 ref

022224   Rameshprabu N;Swamy P S (Plant Science Dep, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021, Email: swamyps@yahoo.co.in) : Predction of environmental suitability for invasion of Mikania micrantha in India by species distribution modelling. J envir Biol 2015, 36(3), 565-70.

Environmental niche modelling was used to assess the invasion of Mikania micrantha H.B.K, an extremely fast growing, perennial vine and one of the world's most notorious invaders. It has spread in many parts of India, especially south-west and north-eastern states and caused severe damage to tree crops and agroforestry plantations in moist tropical zones. Using known occurrence points, the environmental suitability for the risk of invasion of M. micrantha in India was predicted using three species distribution models (BioClim, GARP and MaxEnt). From the three models, BioClim and GARP showed higher accuracy whereas MaxEnt showed comparatively lower accuracy. The Jackknife evaluation result indicated that Bio 13 (Precipitation of wettest period) and Bio 3 (Isothermality) were having high percentage of contribution for spread of M. micrantha. This species showed most significant (p ≤ 0.001) difference in distribution frequency along the altitudinal gradient and climatic zone. Thus, it is reasonable to expect a decline in the frequency of occurrence with an increase in altitude.

1 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

022223   Prasad O;Singh O P;Prasad K (NO, , 43, Ritu Apartments, A-4 Paschim Vihar, New Delhi-110 063, Email: prasadonkari123@yahoo.in) : Long range forecast of rainfall during southwest monsoon in the states of Maharashtra and Goa. J Indian Geophys Union 2016, 20(6), 586-95.

The close relationship known between the activity of South Indian Ocean Convergence Zone and southwest monsoon rainfall for India as a whole also exists for all the four meteorological subdivisions of the states of Maharashtra and Goa (viz., Konkan & Goa, Madhya Maharashtra, Marathwada and Vidarbha). The present study has shown that long range forecast of rainfall for southwest monsoon season as a whole (June-September), bi-monthly periods of August+ September and for the month of September could be prepared for all the four subdivisions. Forecast for seasonal rainfall, at the district level, could be prepared for all districts of the region except the 4 districts of Madhya Maharashtra, namely, Nasik, Pune, Satara and Sangli. For the months of July and September forecast could be prepared for the majority of the districts. For August rainfall forecasting could be possible for the districts of the subdivision of Marathwada only. Forecast for rainfall in the month of June could not be prepared for any of the subdivisions/districts.

2 illus, 6 tables, 6 ref