009648   Agarwal A (Birbal Sahni Inst of Palaeobotany, , 53, Univ Road, Lucknow-226 007, Email: anilagarwal_in@yahoo.com ) : Floristics and diversity of the fossil leaf assemblages from early, middle and late depositions of the lignite seam of neyveli lignite, Tamil Nadu, India. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 48-53.

Study is based on the distribution data of 339 fossil leaf specimens of 45 angiosperm species belonging to 30 genera of 17 families. Relative abundance data of the species common in any two or all the three levels show distinct changes. The proportion of different forest types in the assemblages indicates warm and humid climate during the period of lignite deposition. Shan on- Weaver Index (H') values of the fossil leaf assemblages show slight increase from early to middle deposition and marked decrease during late deposition. The species diversity was highest during the time of middle deposition. The changes in relative abundance of different forest types and species diversity in the three levels indicate different micro-climatic conditions during their depositions that might have occurred owing to changes in temperature and moisture regimes.

3 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

009647   Acharya S;Srivastava R C (Plant Physiology and Biochem Res Lab, Dep of Botany, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar, West Tripura-799 130, Email: ) : Antibacterial property of Rosa Indica against Xanthomonas Oryzae pv. Oryzae by disc-diffusion method and a modified diffusion silica cotton technique. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 71-3.

Antibacterial activity of local variety of Rosa indica L., available in Tripura, was evaluated by a modified diffusion silica cotton technique and the conventional disc-diffusion method. Four extracts of different parts were prepared in different solvents in various ratios. Extracts from the petals, leaves, stems and roots of rose plant evaluated against - Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae. Compared to Streptomycin and Tetracycline, the leaf and petal extracts exhibited in vitro high antibacterial activity but stem and root did not.

2 tables, 28 ref

008622   Wani B A;Khan A (Wood Science Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Kashmir, Hazratbal, Drinagar-190 006) : Ratio of ray and fusiform initials in Robinia pseudoacacia L. from temperate climate of Kashmir Himalaya. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 259-61.

View generally held that fusiform initials constitute above 90% of the vascular cambium in tangential area of cambial zone and that the ray initials constitute less than 10% of the cambial zone. It was found in the study carried on Robinia pseudoacacia L. from Kashmir Himalaya, that fusiform initials constitute about 62% and that ray initials constitute 38% of the mean tangential area of the cambial zone.

16 ref

008621   Thind S K;Jain N;Gosal S S (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Aloe vera L. clones produced in vitro and under natural conditions vary in carbohydrate accumulation. J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 41-5.

Clones of Aloe vera L. were produced under natural conditions as well as by micro-propagation using axillary bud culture technique. Shoots culture were best established on MS medium supplemented with BAP (2 mg per litre) and NAA (5 mg per litre) which rooted when transferred to basal medium. Total free sugars varied in tip, middle and basal leaf portions of naturally growing plants and content increased more than three times in leaf portions of micro-propagated plants. A considerable amount of starch was accumulated in leaves which increased significantly in tissue cultured clones; being maximum in tip. The content was increased to more than four times in leaves of tissue cultured clones. Sucrose and fructose levels were increased significantly in tissue cultured than in naturally grown plants. The significant more accumulation of poly-, di-and monosacharides account for their efficient mechanism of production in vitro when supplied with BAP and NAA. To produce good quality drug from Aloe, leaves should contain the highest possible level of carbohydrates; thus micropropagaed clones could be more beneficial for commercial.

3 tables, 16 ref

008620   Sudhakar Reddy C;Rama Chandra Prasad P;Raza S H;Dutt C B S (Forestry and Ecology Division, National Remote Sensing Agency, , Dep of Space, Balanagar-500 037) : Folklore medicinal plants of North Andaman, India. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(9-10), 269-76.

Ural folk of North Andaman, India use the traditional medicine for their primary health care. Folklore medicinal uses of 72 interesting medicinal plant species along with botanical name, local name, family, habit, part used, disease for which the drug is administered, mode of administration are presented. These 72 plant species which provide the crude drugs pertain to 67 genera and 43' families of Magnoliophyta from tropical rainforests. These plants used to cure 40 ailments. Most remedies were taken orally, accounting for 76 of medicinal use. Most of the remedies were reported to have been from trees (55.6%) and herb (22.2%) species. The most widely sought after plant parts in the preparation of remedies in the areas are the stem bark (33.8%) and root (23.9%).

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

008619   Sudeep B M;Srikantaswamy S;Hosmani S P (Studies in Botany Dep, Mysore Univ, Mysore-570 006) : Phytoplankton dynamics in two lakes of Mysore, Karnataka State, India. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 697-702.

An attempt was made to compare a protected lake (Hadhinaru lake) with an unprotected (Shetty lake) lake by means of phytoplankton analysis. Based on phytoplankton analysis, Chlorophyceae were more abundant in Shetty lake than in Hadhinaru lake, while Cyanophyceae and Bacillariophyceae were uniformly distributed in both the lakes. Desmids were slightly higher in number in Hadhinaru lake Euglenophyceae were more abundant in Shetty lake. Although one lake is protected from human activities and the other is left open for various activities, the findings are almost similar in both the lakes, and they" need regular monitoring.

2 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

008618   Srivastava S K;Srivastava P;Singh S (P.G. Botany Dep, Dharam Samaj College, Aligarh-202 001, Email: praboodh23@yahoo.co.uk) : Anatomical studies of pedical abscision zone in Hibiscus sabdariffa L. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 205-9.

With the investigations it could be summarized that the abscission zone or joint, marked externally with a narrow constriction and darken color, develops at an early stage of development about 1 or 2 mm below the epicalyx at the base of pedicel. A discrete abscission layer is not formed as marked in the case of petiole and the cells of the abscission zone can be morphologically differentiated from the other cells of the pedicel only from their smaller size. The vascular tissues are less thickened and the cutinization of epidermal cell walls is poor in this region. Druses are present in the cells of the pedicel and they become numerous in the cells of the abscission zone as separation approaches. Separation is preceded by cell division, which continues even leading to the formation of primary protection layer. Separation results with the solubilization of middle lamella and to some extent of cell walls and is initiated at the abaxial side. Tracheal elements are broken mechanically and the wound scar is finally protected by the formation of periderm layer.

2 illus, 17 ref

008617   Srivastava P;Singh S (Botany Dep, D.S. College, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, Email: praboodh23@yahoo.co.uk) : Conservation studies on three riparian weeds of river Kali (Aligarh) in surface runoff experiments. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 21-6.

Three common riparian weeds of River Kali viz. Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers. Parthenium hysterophorus L. and Sida acuta Burnf. were studied in a surface runoff experiment to evaluate their conservation efficiencies regarding water, soil and phosphorus conservation. These plants species were collected from the right bank of River Kali, flowing 16 km away from Aligarh city, and were planted on the artificial slopes made in the Botanical Garden of D.S.College, Aligarh (U.P.). Simulated rainfalls (15 cm/hrs) were applied on artificial slopes to collect the data. Runoff water and soil were collected from each experimental slope and their quantities were measured. Conservation values were calculated for eroded soil, runoff water and phosphorus. It was found that C. dactylon was the most efficient species in conservation of soil, water and phosphorus in runoff.

3 tables, 12 ref

008616   Srivastava P;Khare P K (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Spatial and temporal variations in the phytoplankton community of river Ganga at Allahabad (U.P.). Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 31-6.

Studies on the phytoplankton community in the river Ganga at Allahabad were made during January,2005 and December,2007; revealed the evident spatial and temporal variations. The changes in the physico-chemical characteristics of the river water along with the variations in the density, abundance and composition of the phytoplankton community were recorded. Pronounced density peaks of the phytoplankton were observed during the summer months while the winter months were marked with comparatively low phytoplankton densities. The monsoon months, which were particularly detrimental to the growth and abundance of phytoplankton, invariably constituted the minima. Seasonal fluctuations of the phytoplankton community were largely governed by the temperature, transparency and current velocity of the river water. Under the assumption that nutrients were never limiting during the present course of investigation, spatial and temporal patterns of algal development are clearly determined by physical variables such as temperature, turbidity and current velocity.

5 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

008615   Srivastava P (Algal Biotechnological Laboratory, Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004) : Neutraceutical Spirulina-I. Vegetos 2008, 21(2), 1-9.

Spirulina alga is rich in nutrients in a balanced proportion required for human body. It is equally effective in the treatment of a number of chemopreventive therapeutic diseases, hence referred as neutraceutical. The richest source of protein and iron of vegetable origin can fight malnutrition and anaemia, prevalent amongst masses. Its carotenoids supersede other sources known in nature. The pigments like phycobilins impart resistance to human body against diseases by strengthening immune system with minimum amount of lipids in it. Presence of eight out of ten essential amino acids yield good quality of proteins with high absorbility. The essential mineral contents of Spirulina make it a complete food, Spirulina is not only a health food supplement rather promises health benefits to its consumer.

1 table, 8 ref

008614   Srivastava J;Sharma S C;Pathak S (Botany Dep, G.F.College, Shahjahanpur, (U.P.)) : Screening of methanolic extracts of some medicinal plants against certain bread fungi. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 51-4.

Methanolic extract of leaves of Azadirachta indica A. Juss., Ocimum americanum L., Tephrosia puspurea (L.) Pers. and roots of Boerhaavia diffusa L. were evaluated against bread fungi (Aspergiltus flavus, Aspergttlus fumigatus, Mucor niger, Penicillium divaricatum and Rhizopus stolonifer). There was a higher efficacy (100%) of the extracts against M. niger. AH fungal strains are highly inhibited by A. indica. The mixture of A. indica and O. americanum gives maximum percentage of inhibition against all fungi. Selected medicinal plants may be used as fungicides.

2 tables, 13 ref

008613   Srivastava A K;Srivastava A K;Srivastava A; Pandey R (NO, , Usha Niketan" Harpur Nai Basti Near Dhoom Baba, Ballia, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of a heavy metal based dye congored treated Azospirillum sps. on germination physiology of paddy crop (Oryza sativa L.). Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 177-82.

There are many reports where the heavy metal toxicity affect on the micro biofertilizer and also inoculated plant material. Azospirilla a free living rhizobacteria that are able to promote plant growth and increase in the yield of crop of agronomic importence but the Azospirillum sps. affected by metal based dye congored of different conc^{n viz 25, 50,75, 100, inoculated to paddy crop. I 00 seeds were disinfected with 90% Ethanol for 5 minutes and after washing with water these seeds were inoculated with previously dye congored treated Azospirilla sps. culture of 24 hrs. in 25, 50, 75 and 100% v/v of dye. The seed were throughly washed under running tap water and then kept on two layer of moist filter paper whatmann No I in petriplates at 30-32°C in an incubator for germination. Seed germination was recorded after 24, 48, 72, 96 hrs. of incubation these results are expressed as % germination. However, the effect of lower concn (25%),inoculum was found more stimulatory than the higher dose concn 100% with lapse oftime of the percentage germination declines at almost all concn.}

1 table, 15 ref

008612   Siddigui S;Khan S S;Meghvanshi M K;Bhardwaj S (Botany Dep, Institute of Basic Science, Jhansi, Email: Guddank@rediffmail. com) : Allelopathic effect of aqueous extract of Acacia nilotica on seed germination and radicle length of Triticum aestivum var. -Lok-1. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 217-20.

Allelopathic effect of leaf extracts (different concentrations) of Acacia nilotica were seen in main agricultural crop of Indi i.e. Triticum aestivum varª Lok 1. The experiment was conducted in sterilized Pteri dish with different time intervals. The effects of the different concentrations of aqueous extract were compared to distilled water (control). The aqueous extract caused significant inhibitory effect on seed germination and radicle length of receptor plant. The highest inhibitory effect in seed germination and redicle length were reported in higher concentration. The suppression in seed germination and redicle length indicates allelopathic effect of Acacia nilotica in receptor plant. It is suggested that wheat should not be planted close to Acacia nilotica due to adverse effects on its growth.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

008611   Sharma R;Afreen B;Naqvi S Q A (Plant Virology laboratory, Division of Plant Pathology, Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002) : Antiviral property of some medicinal plant extracts against the infectivity of squash mosaic virus (SqMV), in Aligarh. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 199-204.

Efficacy of antiviral principles from Ocimum sanctum. Jatropha curcas, Euphorbia thymifolia, Phyllanthus niruri in preventing the infection of squash mosaic virus was proved better in our studies. The four selected medicinal plant extracts tested showed virus inhibitory activity when applied before virus inoculation .There was an increase in the inhibitory action with the decrease in the concentration (5%). Whereas the pre-inoculation application of plant extracts was far better than the post inoculation application in inhibiting SqMV infection. The virus inhibitory effect of Ocimum sanctum and Jatropha curcas decreased gradually at different time intervals, whereas Euphorbia thymifolia and Phyllanthus niruri, a maximum inhibition observed after 24 hrs incubation period but a reduction observed within 48hrs - 6 days.

3 tables, 14 ref

008610   Sharma D;Rana A;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B.R.Ambedkar Univ, Khandari Campus, Agra-282 002) : Reproductive biology of Duranta repens L. (Verbenaceae). J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 35-9.

Duranta repens (Verbenaceae) an ornamental shrub flowers throughout the year. Maximum floral density was observed during August - October. Flowers exhibited various polymorphic features e.g. increase in the number of stamens during June - August and petals during December - February and reduction in the number of petals in May - July. Trichomes of various types were seen on corolla, calyx and ovarian surface. Flowers are protandrous and anthers dehisce during 1700 - 1730 h, while stigma becomes receptive half an hour after anther dehiscence. There were 903 pollen/anther and 3612 pollen/flower. Pollen fertility was 65 - 80%. There were 4 ovules per flower. Pollen - ovule ratio was 903:1. The effective pollinators were honeybees, small bees, black ants, red ants, wasps, birds, butterflies, spiders and carpenter bees. Percentage of fruit-set in open pollinated flowers was 80-85%. Artificially pollinated flowers exhibited 80% fruit-set by xenogamy and 62-75% fruit-set by geitonogamy. There was no fruit-set in self-pollinated flower.

3 tables, 15 ref

008609   Sharma A;Meena M C;Patni V;Arora D K (Plant Pathology, Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Rajasthan Uni, Jaipur-302 004) : In vitro multiplication of Acalypha wilkesiana 'dwarf' through nodal segment culture. J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 79-82.

Acalypha wilkesiana 'Dwarf' is an important shrub utilized as an ornamental landscape plant. A rapid and reproducible regeneration protocol has been established in Acalypha wilkesiana 'Dwarf via. axillary bud proliferation. Multiple shoot buds were induced from nodal stem segment with axillary bud explant on Murashige and Skoog's medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/l 6-benzyl amino purine. These shoot buds proliferated and elongated on MS-medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/l BAP along with 10.0 mg/l adenine sulphate. These shoots so produced were rooted on MS-medium fortified with 1.0 mg/l Naphthalene acetic acid. The in vitro regenerated plantlets were hardened and subsequently planted in soil.

1 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

008608   Shailanan S;Shah S (Herbal Research Lab, Ramnarain Ruia College, Mumbai-400 019) : Effect of seasonal variation on some heavy metal contents of a medicinal plant Swertia densiflora (Griscb.) Kashyap using ICP-OES Technique. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 605-8.

The analysis of heavy metals of medicinal plants is an important criteria of their standardisation. Various mineral elements occur in plant and animal tissues in such minute amounts that early workers were unable to measure their precise concentration with analytical methods then available. They were, therefore, described as occurring in trace quantity. The practice is still followed despite the development of modern analytical laboratory techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy and neutron activation analysis, which have an ability to measure all trace elements in the smallest of biological samples with great precision and accuracy. Four common heavy metals Pb, Zn, Cu and Ni were analysed in a medicinal plant Swertia densiflora (Griscb.) Kashyap by optical emission spectroscopy which uses the technique of inductively coupled plasma. The increased circulation of toxic metals in soils and plants may result in the inevitable buildup of such toxins in food chains. The results of the study indicate that the concentration of copper ranged from 7.10-9.25, zinc from 36.25-71.02, lead from 6.69-13.74 and nickel from < 1.0-4.46 in Swertia densiflora.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

008607   Shah D G;Bhatt S (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, The M.S. Baroda Univ, Vadodara-390 002, Email: shahdhamu@redifmail.com) : First record of the mangrove associate Derris trifoliata Lour. from Gujarat. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2008, 105(3), 359-60.

1 illus, 6 ref

008606   Sarver J;Anand V K (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu, (J&K)) : Diversity, distribution pattern and indigenous uses of medicinal plants used by the tribal communities of distrct Udhampur - a part of NW Himalayas, J&K state, India. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 101-8.

District Udhampur of J&K State, a part of Northwest Himalayas has a rich diversity of medicinal plants, which are widely used by the tribals inhabiting the hilly mountainious regions of the study area. The present communication deals with the Ethnobotanical exploration, identification, concerns, conservational aspects and future potentialities of these wild medicinal species. A total of 80 plant species belonging to 51 families and 73 genera were reported from the region. The family Asteraceae represented by 6 species dominated the floral composition followed by Rosaceae 5 species, Lamiaceae and Pinaceae with 4 species. The four major reported life forms were trees, shrubs, herbs and climbers. Herb makes up the highest proportion of the medicinal plant species followed by trees, shrubs and climbers. 20 major ailments were sorted out among the tribal and maximum number of plant species were used against skin diseases. All the parts of plants were used as a source of drugs. Leaf was the most frequently used part of plant species followed by fruit, root, flower and bark. Execution of unplanned developmental activities and anthropogenic factors has resulted in a serious effect on ecological imbalance and regeneration of the biodiversity in the region.

22 ref

008605   Sahani R K;Saxena A R (Botany Dep, D.A.V.P. G. College, Azamgarh-276 001, Email: rk_sahani@rediffmail.com) : Ethnobotanical studies on some important plants of Azamgarh district of U. P., India. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 39-46.

Azamgarh is one of the important Districts of easten Uttar Pradesh. There are large numbers of plants which are used in different diseases by local inhabitants. Deals with 81 angiospermic plant species which are associated with medicinal values. Attempts have been made to collect information by approaching different agencies. The botanical names, local names, families and uses in different diseases are given.

1 table, 8 ref

008604   Ravi Sankar R;Sreeramulu A (Applied Plant Pathology Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Biochemical changes in teak leaves infected by powdery mildew fungus, Uncinula tectonae salm. J Pl Dis Sci 2009, 4(1), 57-9.

Biochemical alterations in teak plants exposed to biotic stress of powdery mildew infection caused by Uncinula tectonae Salm were studied. Significant gradual loss in the contents of total chlorophylls, carbohydrates (reducing, non reducing sugars and starch) and proteins were observed with an increase in the foliage infection. Total phenol content was considerably increased in the infected leaves. Further, the pathogen caused a stimulation of peroxidase activities in the infected leaves. Observations of all these metabolic changes further lead to drying of the infected leaves and results in defoliation.

3 tables, 14 ref

008603   Ravi Sankar N;Sreeramulu A (Applied Plant Pathology Lab, Botany Dep, Sri Venkateswara Univ, Tirupati-517 502) : Effect of carbon and nitrogen sources on growth, bio-mass production and antifungal metabolites by Alternaria alternata and Cladosporium oxysporum. J Pl Dis Sci 2009, 4(1), 7-9.

Nutritional studies of biocontrol agents revealed that nitrogen source was essential for the growth and sporulation. Studies on the effect of carbon sources on sporulation and growth also showed that sporulation of A. alternata was excellent on all carbon sources except pectin. A. alternata and C. oxysporum showed excellent sporulation on maltose, sucrose and fructose respectively. Potassium nitrate and casein hydrolysate were best nitrogen sources for the sporulation and biomass production of A. alternata and C. oxysporum. The antifungal metabolites produced in culture filtrates of bioagents raised on different carbon and nitrogen sources when tested against powdery mildew pathogen of teak showed varying inhibitions.

3 tables, 14 ref

008602   Rashmi Singh (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Satna, Madhya Pradesh) : Algal biodiversity and seasonal variations of some wetlands and paddy fields of Satna (M.P.). Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 53-4.

Investigation deals with biodiversity of algae in some wetlands and paddy tields of Satna. Study was carried out 235 species belonging to 87 genera, comprising of 112 species of BGA, 79 of green algae, 23 of Euglenophyceae, 17 of Bacillariophyceae and 3 members of Rhodophyceae. During summer the smaller and rapidly growing species were more dominant over the spring bloom, may be due to the less appearance of slower growing zooplanktons.

7 ref

008601   Raole V M;Rajput K S;Desai R J (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao Baroda Univ, Vadodara-390 002, Email: vmraole@rediffmail.com) : Preliminary observations on yellow morning glory ipomoea hederifolia linn. (Convolvulaceae). J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2008, 105(3), 360-1.

3 ref

008600   Rafiq A;Ali S;Jahan T;Naqvi Q A (Plant Virology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002) : Virus causing yellow net disease on carrot (Daucus carota L.) identified as alfalfa mosaic virus. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(1-2), 39-43.

An attempt bas been made to isolate and identify the virus. The virus was found to be transmitted by aphids viz. Aphis gossypii, A. craccivora and Myzus persicae in non persistent manner. Its host range, biophysical properties and transmission studies revealed that the virus causing yellow net disease may belong to genus alfamovirus. However purified preparation of the virus under E.M. showed bacilli form particles varying 30-60nm in length and 20 nm width and serological test using DAS-ELISA with antisera of alfalfa mosaic virus confirmed it to be a strain of alfalfa mosaic virus.

^ssc5 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

008599   Purohit V K;Negi V;Phondani P C;Rawat L S; Maikhuri R K;Joshi S C (NO, G.B. Pant Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development, Garhwal Unit, P.Box 92, Srinagar, Garhwal-246 174, Email: rkmaikhuri@rediffmail.com) : Assessment of root formation in stem cuttings of Spondias pinnata. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(1-2), 17-20.

Rooting ability of stem cuttings of Spondias pinnata Linn, an economically important wild edible plant species, has been examined under polypit (a low cost high humidity system) condition in the month of May using auxins (IBA, NAA and IAA; 100, 250 & 500 μM), and a systemic fungicide Bavistin (containing 50% Carbendazim; 0.1, 0.5, 1.0%). The application of lAA 500 μM resulted in 75.5% rooting after three months as compared to 35.5% rooting in the control set. The highest number of roots was developed in NAA (100 μM). Success was also achieved in other treatments applied. Well rooted cuttings have been successfully hardened in the nursery condition.

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

008598   Prasanth Narayanan S;Vijayan L (School of Environmental Sciences, Mahatma Gandhi University, Priyadarsini Hills, Kottayam, Kerala-686 560, Email: narayanankc@gmail.com) : Major threats and needs for the conservation of Kumarakom heronry of Kerala, India. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(9-10), 293-6.

Wetlands are important bird habitats, and birds use them for various ecological needs. For most waterbirds, habitat loss in breeding areas translates directly into population losses. Hence, the birds that breed in these poorer quality habitats will not contribute to a sustainable population through the year. Destructions of heronries will directly affect the population of colonial nesting waterbirds. Kumarakom heronry is the biggest of all heronries found in Kerala, and is not away from various anthropogenic factors as well. Hence here we are discussing major detrimental issues that cause setback to the Kumarakom heronry, its needs and conservation strategies for their sustainable development.

^ssc1 illus, 19 ref

008597   Pohekar H R (Botany Dep, Institute of Science, R.T. Road, Civil Line, Nagpur-440 001) : Investigation on cultivation practices of Costus speciosus, an ethnometdicinal plant from Amravati District. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 161-6.

Study was undertaken to investigate cultivation practices of ethnomedicinal plant from Amravati District. During the course of investigation ethnobotanical survey was conducted in the tribal Villages Viz. Chikhaldhara, Harisal, Mangia, Kolkas, Semadoh, Makhala, Dharkora in Amravati District. The Plants were collected, identified and documented along with their data on ethnobotanical importance reported by local Vaidus (Thatya) and other informative Sources. Coslus Speciosus was found to be used in curing diseases Various cultivation practice employed in the garden. The present Paper gives an account of Cultivation, Propagation, Planting, Lifting & Stotage, uses. It was followed by preparation of herbarium sheets as a Vaucher Specimen and Macroscopic Photography. After recovering the local names of the Specimens are called by the Vaidu (Thatya) and Laymen their botanical investigation was done in Consumption with the floras and relavent literature in order to ascertain the botanical identity of the Specimen. The identification were confirmed with the help of morpho-taxonomic description and interaction with the taxonomist of the region.

8 illus, 7 ref

008596   Perdeshi G T (Botany Dep, J. D. M. V. P. S. Arts, Commerce and Science College, Jalgaon-425 001) : Incidence of airborne fungi in Jalgaon Maharashtra, (India). Oikoassay 2008, 21(1-2), 17-18.

Survey of fungal spores was conducted at Jalgaon for 2 years from January 2002 to December 2003. 20 different type of spores were identified through the exposed slides and culture plate methods. Cladosporium occupied the maximum incidence followed by Alternaria, Curvularia and Aspergillus, respectively in the successive years. Variations in fungal spores frequency may be due to the effect of different meteorological factors at different times.

1 table, 15 ref

008595   Patil C R;Patil D A (Botany Dep, Rani Laxmibai College, Parola-425 111, Email: crpatil_ayush@rocket.mal.com) : Observation on foliar trichomes in some rubiaceae. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 233-46.

Study revealed unicellular and multicellular trichomes on foliar surfaces of rubiaceous 23 species belonging 15 genera All types of trichomes are glandular and belong to the categories viz., i) Unicellular cylindrical, ii) Unicelluar conical, iii) Uniseriate conical and iv) Uniseriate cylindrical. The apices of trichomes vary from acute to sub-acute or obtuse. The categories of trichome-stomata relationship belong to I, II and III type, as recongnised by Rajagopal and Pochaiah 13. The structure, surface, wall features, shape, occurrence, length and frequency have been studied in detail.

2 tables, 17 ref

008594   Patil A M;Patil D A (Botany Dep, Rani Laxmibai College, Parola District, Jalgaon (M.S.)) : Foliar trichomes in acanthaceae. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 37-52.

Study revealed unicellular and multicellular trichomes on foliar surface of' 43 species belonging to 24 genera of Acanthaceae. All trichomes are norj-glandular but exceptionally long stalked glandular trichome has been reported in Andrographis alata. The trichomes belong to the categories viz., (i) Simple filiform, (ii) Unicellular cylindrical, (iii) Unicellular conical, (iv) Bicellular conical, (v) Papillose, (vi) Uniseriate conical, (vii) Unicellular bi-armed, (viii) Unicellula multi-armed and (ix) Glandular. The apices of trichomes vary from actute to sub-acute or obtuse. The categories of trichome-stomata relationship belongs to all categories recognized by Rajagopal and Pochaiah (1983). The trichomes studied can be used as taxonomic parameters for the taxa.

3 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

008593   Pathak S;Sharma S C (P G Department of Botany, GF College, Shahjahanpur-242 001) : Allelopathic effects of Melilotus alba on seed germination and seddling establishment of whaet var (RR 21). Vegetos 2008, 21(2), 121-4.

Melilotus alba Desr., a leguminous weed, grows as a competitor in wheat fields in the district of Shahjahanpur (U.P.). In order to ascertain whether allelopathy is, in any way responsible for the growth of wheat, an attempt was made to evaluate the allelopathic effects of roots and shoots of Melilotus alba. The different concentrations of root and shoot extracts of M. alba were tested on the seed germination and seedling establishment of wheat var. (RR 21). It was observed that the seed germination was more affected by the root extracts than shoot extracts and the seedling establishment was also inhibited by root extracts. In the present investigation, a decrease in the percentage of seed germination and seedling establishment was recorded with the increasing concentration of aqueous extracts.

1 table, 21 ref

008592   Paliwal D P;Sharma K K;Tonk I P;Negi B K; Khatri R (NO, Basic Seed Farm, Majra, Dehradun, (Uttarakhand)) : Floral biology, seed and seedling of muga silkworm host plant species Persea bombycina King ex Hook. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 15-19.

The plant species Persea bombycina King. Ex Hook occupies an important economic position among the plant community as the leaves of this species are the source of food for muga silkworm Antheraea assma Ww. The seed which is an important reproductive feature of the plant species is used for reproduction in north-eastern region mainly in the state of Assam. Keeping in view importance of seed in reproduction, studies were carried out on floral initiation, seed formation and post germination of seed. It was found that this plant species, flowered once in a year during the period between December-March. The greenish white flowers of this species turned yellow with age. The fruit was simple, berry in which seed at first attached with placenta but later separates from it on maturation. The mature seeds were oval to spherical in shape and exhibited a pointed ridge at micropylar end. The seedcoat found comprising epidermis, supporting and pigmented layers. The germination of seed starts after ten to twenty days of showing, and first pair of leaf emerges out within a period of ten days.

14 illus, 11 ref

008591   Nath S Kr;Sharma S K (Botany Dep, Dhing College, Dhing, Nagaon-782 123) : Potential plant wealth of Laokhowa Sildlife Sanctuary Nagaon, Assam. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2008, 7(4), 659-62.

The flora of Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary consists of many useful plants having great commercial as well as socio-economic importance. Some of these plants have already been utilized and a large number of species are consumed by the forest villagers and the villagers of surrounding areas. Promising plant resources of the sanctuary, categorized like timber plants, fibre-yielding plants, and oil yielding and other minor forest products yielding species, have been enumerated.

1 table, 12 ref

008590   Mukesh Kumar;Semwal I M;Singh J B;Kanchan (Botany Dep, DBS College, Kanpur-208 006) : Ethno-medicinal recipes for leucorrhoea by nomadic people of Etawah, UP. Vegetos 2008, 21(2), 35-8.

This Ethno-medicinal study was carried out in district Etawah during 2005-06. The dominant nomadic people and remote rural communities are involved in using 15 plant species, namely, Acacia nilotica (Linn.), Aegle marmelos (Roxb.), Asparagus racemosus (Willd.), Azadirachta indica (Juss.), Bombax cieba (Linn.), Butea monosperma (Roxb.), Cynodon dactylon (Farn.), Delbergia sisso (Roxb.), Evolvulus alsinoides (Linn.), Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Linn), Mangifera indica (Linn.), Mimosa pudica (Linn.), Pedalium murax (Linn.), Saraca indica (Auct.) and Sida cardifolia, (Linn.) belonging to 12 families. Many species were used for the cure of Leucorrhoea. The plants are enumerated alphabetically by their botanical name, family, local name, locality with collection number, mode of preparation and administration method.

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008589   Mukesh Kumar;Semwal I M;Singh J B;Kanchan (Botany Dep, DBS College, Kanpur-208 006) : Ethno-medicinal plants of Chambal valley of district Etawah (UP). Vegetos 2008, 21(2), 11-15.

Deals with the Medico-ethnobotanical information on the traditional system of medicine gathered from Chambal Valley of district Etawah, Uttar Pradesh. In respect of the 30 plants species belonging to 24 families of Angiosperms, their botanical name, family, local name, locality, voucher specimen number, uses in different ailments and dosage of plants product have been given.

10 ref

008588   Mishra P;Patni V;Kant U (Plant Pathology, Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Rajastahn Un, Jaipur-302 004) : Histochemical studies of leaf galls of Quercus leucotrichophora (Bluejack Oak) induced by 'Dipteran'. J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 63-7.

Galls on Quercus leucotrichophora Camus, caused by a dipteran (Insecta) are very common in the himalayan region. These leaf galls are hard, tomentose, beaked, brownish green. In these galls many anatomical, physiological and phytochemical changes appear due to insect feeding. Various metabolites viz. tannin, protein, carbohydrate, starch, cellulose, lipid, lignin and enzymes viz. polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and acid phosphatase were localized in the normal leaf and leaf gall tissues using standard histochemical techniques. Relative differences were seen in the localization of metabolites in the gall tissues as compared to the normal tissues. Higher localization of activities of enzymes viz polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase in the gall especially near the nutritive zone indicated high metabolic activity in cells very close to the locus of 'insect' incidence.

3 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

008587   Maya C;Lakshman H C (Botany Dep, Bangalore Univ, Janana Bharati Campus, Bangalore, (Karnatak)) : Interaction between arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Am fungi) and rhizobium; and their effects on Cassia occidentalis Linn.. Natn J Life Sci 2009, 6(1), 25-30.

Unteraction between Glomus fasciculatum and Rhlzobium phaseoli and their effects on Cassia occidentals was studied in a phosphorus deficient sandy loam soil. The number, dry-weight and nitrogen content of the root nodules in plants inoculated with Glomus fasciculatum plus Rhizobium were significantly increased, compared to uninoculated control or with only Rhizobium. Rhizobium inoculation did not have significant influence on sporulation of G.fasciculatum in the rhizospheic soils. But Cassia occidentalis plants inoculated with G.fasciculatum recovered increased phosphorus content, dry weight and grain yield than uninoculated plants. Only Rhizobium inoculation resulted in the increased nitrogen content of the plant and grain yield. Dual inoculation of both the symbionts, significantly increased the plant height, shoot dry weight and its nitrogen content over single inoculation with either Glomus or Rhizobium. These results suggests that arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi along with Rhizobium can greatly increase nodulation and nitrogen fixation in pots grown with Cassia occidentalis.

2 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

008586   Malik C P;Bhavneet Kaur;Verma A;Wadhwani C (School of Life Sciences, Jaipur National Univ, Jagatpura, Jaipur-302 025) : Role of nitric oxide and brassinolide in amelioration of low temperature effect on fiber elongation in Gossypium arboreum L.. J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 47-50.

Cotton ovules collected during late September when night cool temperature (15 °C) prevailed, were cultured at 32°C/15°C and 32°C/12°C At low temperature, activities of acid invertase, β-galactosidase and β-glucosidase were adversely affected i.e. cycling temperatures for 12 h each in Beasley and Ting medium had very few epidermal cells bulging. When NO or Brassinolide were added individually to the medium, the suppression of the protrusions could be restored. The two phytohormones stimulated fiber elongation. Compared with TFU in control, cool temperature reduced it but NO and Brassinolide mitigated the suppression effect. Activity of o-diphenol oxidase increased at 15 and 35 DAC compared with 2 DAA. With NO and BR, the activities enhanced at both the stages. The enhanced activity during the elongation and wall thickening phases points toward the fact that phenols are oxidized and thus the redox balance shifts towards oxidation, causing an increase in S-S bonds which check the process of wall loosening. The activity of acid invertase increased in response to two phytohormones suggesting the role of the enzyme in promoting apoplastic hydrolysis, preventing sucrose accumulation during the elongation phase. Total sugars decreased in response to cool temperature though NO and BR restored their levels. β-galactosidase is believed to be concerned with metabolism of cell wall polysaccharides. Both the phytohormones promoted the enzyme activity indicating restoration of wall synthesis during elongation phase.

2 tables, 13 ref

008585   Maitra T K (Botany Dep, Ananda Mohan College, Kolkata-700 009) : Effect of hydrogen-ion concentration on growth of Lenzites abietina Fr.. Indian J Landsc Syst ecol Stud 2006, 29(1), 178-80.

Effect of hydrogen-ion concentration (pH) on the growth ofLenzites abietina Fr. was studied. Optimum pH for the best growth of both primary and the secondary mycelia of the test fungus was found to be 6.5.

1 table, 11 ref

008584   Lata N;Dubey V (Botany Dep, C.M.D. P.G.College, Guru Ghasidas Univ, Bilaspur (C.G.)) : Physio-biochemical analysis of Potamogeton pectinatus (L.) in relation to salinity. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 11-14.

The work deals with the physiological behavior of Potamogeton pectiitatus (L.) in relation to variant salinlty concentrations. The aquatic plant, collected from the Lake Chilika was taken as experimental material and cultured aseptically under different salinity concentration of lake water. Physiological and biochemical parameters were analyzed in response to variations. Growth parameters, pigments and metabolic contents were studied and compared.

4 tabels, 25 ref

008583   Kumawat D A;Patil S B;Borse R B;Malche Y P; Rane H E;Vanjari S D;Patil J (Botany Dep, Dhanaji Nana Mahavidyalaya, Faizpur-425 503) : Diatoms from polluted water bodies of Jalgaon district, Maharashtra (India). Oikoassay 2008, 21(1-2), 25-30.

Survey was carried out in waste water bodies of Yawal tanasil region in district of Jalgaon in Maharashtra State, to document diversity and richness of diatoms of the region. 89 diatoms were studied during June, 2006 to May, 2007. Cymbella, Nitschia and Navicula were the most dominant genera with 13,16 and 20 species respectively. However high species diversity was exhibited by genus Navicula. Cyclotella meneghiniana, Navicula cincta, N. cuspidata var. ambigua, Pinnularia interrupta, Cymbella aspera, C. turgidula, Gomphonema parvulum, Nitzschia amphibia and N. punctuta were recorded throughout the year. Moreover freshwater diatoms like Mastogloia baltica Grun. and Frustulia saxonica Rabh. were observed in waste water.

23 ref

008582   Khan S A;Navneet Kumar (Biotechnology & Microbiology Dep, Bhagwati College of Management & technology, NH-58 Siwaya, Roorkee Road, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of mastication of clove (Eugenia caryophyllus spreng.) on oral hygience. Natn Acad Sci Lett 2008, 31(9-10), 277-9.

Clove is an unopened flower bud of tropical evergreen plant Eugenia caryophyllus(Spreng.). Inspite of using as a valuable spice it also acts as a preservative and strong antiseptic. The present research work has been planned to carried out the effect of entire bud, crown part and peduncle of E. caryophyllus on the microflora of oral cavity. The maximum inhibitory effect on oral microflora was reported by the entire bud of clove, closely followed by crown. The peduncle of clove bud also exhibited inhibitory effect but the effect was minimum in comparison to entire bud or crown alone. From the results of present investigation it appears that inspite of eugenol (an aromatic essential oil) some other chemical constituents present in the crown might be extensively attributed to antimicrobial activity of E. Caryophyllus.

^ssc1 illus, 6 ref

008581   Khairnar S B;Patil M V;Shubhangi P;Patil D A (B.S.S. Prasarak Mandal Sanchalit Arts, Science College, Songir, Dist. Dhule-424 309) : Role of traditional homestead-gardens of tribals in North Maharashtra. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 187-98.

House-gardening is an indigenous age-old agro-forestry system and repository of different cultivated plant species. About, 94 species belonging to 91 genera and 39 families are documented from the tribal part of north Maharashtra. They are traditionally maintained by the ethnic tribes viz., Pawara, Mavachi, Tadvi, Bhil, Kokni, Warli, Mhadeo-Koli, Thakur, Katkari etc. These are used for various purposes like food, spice, condiment, medicine, religious, ornamental, shade, hut/house construction and live hedge. Some wild species are also found under cultivation. The scenario of plant diversity hold by the tribals of this region with particular emphasis on their census and status is pertinently discussed.

1 table, 24 ref

008580   Karuppusamy S;Sandhya Rani S;Pullaliah T (Botany Dep, The Madura College, Madurai-625 011, Email: ksamylin@yahoo.co.in) : Habenaria commelinifolia Wall. (Orchidaceae)- a new addition to the flora of Andhra pradesh. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2008, 105(3), 363.

2 ref

008579   Kadam V B;Wadikar M S;Ahire P P;Momin R K (P.G. Botany and Research Center Dep, Deogiri College, Aurangabad, (M.S.)) : Determination of extractive percentage of three endangered medicinal taxa of south Gujarat forest. Life Sci Bull 2009, 6(1), 95-8.

The seasonal variation of water soluble, alcohol soluble and ether soluble extractive percentange were investigated in leaves, bark, wood and seeds of Semecarpus anacardium, Malloius philippensis and Pterocarpus marsupium, medicinally important and extremely rare in South Gujarat Forest. Comparative account of acid soluble extractive percentage of leaves of Semecarpus anacardium showed high level (range 10.491%-13.676%) than other two taxa. Water soluble extractive of leaves of Ma/lotus philippensis showed higher (range 7.939%-10.443%) than Semecarpus anacardium and Pterocarpus marsupium. Ether soluble extractive percentage of leaves of Semecarpus anacardium showed higher (range 4.196%-4.622%) than other two taxa investigated.

1 table, 9 ref

008578   Joshi S;Shringi S K (P.G. Botany Govt Dep, Govt Colege, Kota) : Sacred grove : a conservation model. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 9-13.

'Sacred groves' are protected patches of forest dedicated to local deities. These protected patches are dedicated to gods and godesses. Sacred groves are usually revered as the abode of certain Gods deities and spirits are generally located in the areas away from human settlements. The present study involved the three sacred groves situated in and around the Jhawahar sagar sanctuary and also identification of the vegetation in these sacred groves. The studies revealed that some interesting species are present in specific groves. Besides these, the amenity value, role of sacred groves in water conservation and their effect on microclimate of the region and they are the best conservation model of the floristic wealth. The sacred groves are important repositories of floral and faunal diversity that have been conserved by local communities in a sustainable manner and deserve special attention in future studies.

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008577   Jain R;Srivastava P (Botany Dep, Kanoria PG Mahila Mahavidayalya, Jaipur) : Taxonomic account of green algae from Alwar (Rajasthan) India, - Conjugales - I. Vegetos 2008, 21(2), 61-80.

Three water bodies near Alwar viz. Siliserh Lake, Jaisamand Lake and Laldiggi were selected for the present study. A total of 94 green algae were collected and studied. There was dominance of Conjugates (44 species) comprising Zygnemataceae and Desmidiaceae. Spirogyra with 31 species was the most dominant genus. All the forms are the first record from this part of the state.

6 plate, 17 ref

008576   Jain M;Raghavendra A S (School of Biochemistry, Devi Ahilya Univ, Takshashila Campus, Khandwa Road, Indore-452 017) : Effect of osmotic stress on production of hydrogen peroxide in pea (Pisum sativum) leaves and its relationship to shrinkage. J Pl Sci Res 2007, 23(1-2), 87-90.

Attempt has been made to study the effect of osmotic stress induced by sorbitol on production of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O) and its relationship to shrinkage in pea (Pisum sativum) leaf discs. Treatment with increasing concentration of sorbitol decreased leaf disc area and increased H₂O₂ production. Incubation of leaf discs in presence of catalase caused marginal increase in leaf disc area at higher concentrations of sorbitol (0.6 M to 1.0 M), however, it remained same in water and at lowest concentration of sorbitol (0.2 M) used. Increasing osmoticum also caused increase in lipid peroxidation. Further, incorporation of quercetin (an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation) in the incubation medium increased disc area in 0.6 M to 1.0 M sorbitol. Thus, the increase in production of H₂O₂ can be correlated with leaf disc shrinkage.

4 illus, 19 ref

008575   Hisamuddin;Azam T (Section of Plant Pathology ad Nematology, Botany Dep, Aligarh Musliim University, Aligarh-202 002, Email: azamtanweer@gmail.com) : Cassia species, family Caesalpiniaceae and their medicinal uses. Indian J appl pure Biol 2009, 24(1), 229-32.

Deals with medicinal importance of Cassia species of the family Caesalpiniaceae, paper encompasses general morphology habitat, chemical composition, medicinal attributes for curing various ailments.

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