005375   Chakraborty A;Jha B C (NO, Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute, Barrackpore, Kolkata-700 120) : Diversity of medicinal plants in floodplain lakes of Assam and West Bengal. J Inld Fish Soc India 2008, 40(2), 32-42.

Macrophyte diversity study of floodplain lakes, under Ganga and Brahmaputra river basin was conducted and as many as 30 species of macrophytes with medicinal value were recorded. Many existing macrophytes, which have assumed the status of weeds, affecting the fisheries adversely, can be utilized for getting useful chemical derivatives of medicinal importance for direct human benefits.

30 illus, 11 ref

005374   Barve S S;Sangeetha J S (Unit of Cytogenetics, Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Cytological studies in 2n = 17 Coix gigantea (Poaceae). J Cytol Genet 2008, 9(1), 79-83.

From among the natural progenies of Coix species growing in the botanical garden of Dr. B.A.M University, 7 plants of Coix gigantea with 2n=17 chromosomes were isolated. The detail cytological studies revealed that it is an interspecific hybrid derivative with one C. aquatica and sixteen C. gigantea chromosomes. 14 C. gigantea chromosomes regularly formed 7 bivalents, whereas one aquatica and a smaller gigantea chromosome always paired to form heteromorphic bivalent. One small gigantea chromosome was left out as univalent at diakinesis. Rarely, a loose association of the left out univalent with heteromorphic bivalent was observed. The two small gigantea univalents never paired with each other. The segregation of bivalents and the behaviour of univalents through meiosis I and II later led to the formation of gametes with n=8 and 9, accommodating an aquatica chromosome in gigantea complement. Every year in the natural progeny of Coix sps. this hybrid derivative was isolated in fairly good proportion and was observed to be semi- fertile. May be it is slowly getting established and forming a source of more 2n=17 and 2n=18 hybrid derivatives with fairly normal meiosis.

12 illus, 10 ref

005373   Bansal S K;Singh K V;Suresh Kumar (NO, Desert Medicine Research Centre (ICMR), New Pali Road, Jodhpur-342 005, Email: bansalshivk@hotmail.com) : Larvicidal activity of the extracts from different parts of the plant Solanum xanthocarpum against important mosquito vectors in the arid region. J envir Biol 2009, 30(2), 221-6.

Larvicidal efficacy of the aqueous and methanol extracts from green unripe and yellow ripe fruits, seeds, leaves and roots of the plant Solanum xanthocarpum was evaluated against Anopheles culicifacies, Anopheles Stephensi, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus, the important mosquito vectors prevalent in the arid region. Studies were carried out on late 3rd or early 4th instar larvae of these species using standard WHO technique. Based on concentration mortality data LC₅₀ and LC₅₀ values along with their fiducial limits, regression equation, chi-square (λ²)/ heterogeneity of the response have been determined by log probit regression analysis. The 24 hr LC₅₀ values as observed for aqueous extracts for green unripe and yellow ripe fruits were 112.7, 498.2 and 846.3 mgl^-1 and 104.7,267.7 and 832.2 mg I^-1 for Anopheles Stephensi, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus respectively. However, the 24 hr LC₅₀ values for methanol extracts of yellow ripe fruits and seeds were 51.6,52.2,118.3 and 157.1 mg l^-1 and 66.9, 73.7,123.8 and 154.9 mg I^-1 for the above four vector species respectively. The results showed that larvae of anophelines were much more susceptible as compared to culicines to both the aqueous and methanol extracts from fruits and seeds of the plant tested. The methanol extracts were found 2-5 times more effective as compared to the aqueous extracts. The chi-square values calculated during the analysis did not show any heterogeneity of the response. Experiments conducted with aqueous and methanol extracts from leaves and roots of this plant species didn't show any larvicidal activity against any of the mosquito species tested. The study would be of great importance while formulating vector control strategy based on alternative plant based insecticides.

005372   Anuj Kumar;Verma V C;Gond S K;Kumar V;Kharwar R N (Mycopathology and Microbial Technology Laboratory, Centre of Advanced, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Bio-control potential of Cladosporium sp. (MCPL - 461), against a noxious weed Parthenium hysterophorus L.. J envir Biol 2009, 30(2), 307-12.

Phenological survey of Parthenium hysterophorus L., in and around the campus of Banaras Hindu University (BHU) was done for about two years (2004-06). During Nov. 2004, a few Parthenium plants were found diseased, and symptoms were restricted to the flowers, buds, and inflorescences. The disease causes sterility and reduces seed viability, which was observed with seed germination test from infected and healthy plants. The fungal pathogen was isolated and identified as Cladosporium sp. (MCPL-461). The severity of pathogen to the reproductive organs led to serious damages of the Parthenium plants. Thus in vitro and in vivo experiments were conducted to determine the bio-control potential of Cladosporium sp. (MCPL 461) against Parthenium weed. A combinatorial effort of Cladosporium sp. (MCPL 461) bio-control potential was evaluated with different culture media, incubation periods and spores strength. Spore suspension of 10⁵ to 10¹² spores ml^-1 were used to spray on healthy Parthenium plants, and it was found that severe infection symptoms were appeared at 10¹⁰ to 10¹² spores ml^-1 suspension. LD₅₀ was found at 10⁷ spores ml^-1. To enhance the myco-herbicide activity 3% sucrose was added to the spore suspension, which further resolute the bio-control efficacy of the isolates. Only 20-30 % seeds of infected plants could germinate. However the safety of non-targeted and wild plants was also tested with Lantana camera, Chromolaena odorata and found that suspension up to 10¹² spores ml^-1 were not sufficient for disease outbreak in them.

3 illus, 3 tables, 47 ref

005371   Aiman Hasan S;Fariduddin Q;Ali B;Hayat S; Ahmad A (Plant Physiology Section, Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002, Email: hahyat_68@yahoo.com) : Cadmium: toxicity and tolerance in plants. J envir Biol 2009, 30(2), 165-74.

Of all the non-essential heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) is perhaps the metal which has attracted the most attention in soil science and plant nutrition due to its potential toxicity to humans, and also its relative mobility in the soil-plant system. This review summarizes the toxic symptoms of Cd in plants (i.e. growth retardation, alterations of photosynthesis, stomatal movement, enzymatic activities, water relations, interferences with mineral uptake, protein metabolism, membrane functioning, etc.) but also includes the mechanisms of cadmium uptake, translocation and deposition. Moreover, it also throws light on chelation, including identification of Cd ligands present in cytosoland vasculartissue. Cadmium-induced oxidative stress is also considered as one of the most widely studied topics in this review.

2 tables, 77 ref

004352   Yadav D S (NO, D.S. College, Aligarh) : Effect of air pollutants on pigment content and pollen fertility of some plants around Mathura refinery. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 329-30.

The loss in chlorophyll a and b content of Cajanus cajan Millisp was 9.1 % and 2.8% .and in Brassica nigra Koch it was 8.5% and 2.5% respectively. Acacia nilotica Del showed the least reduction in chlorophyll a and b content i.e. 6.9% and 2% respectively. The loss in the pollen fertility of Cajanus cajan Millis Brassica nigra Koch an Acacia nilotica Del was found to be 46%, 21.2% and 10.2% respectively.

2 tables, 14 ref

004351   Yadav D;Bains N S (Plant Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory, P.G. Department of, Government Dungar College, Bikaner-334 001, Email: navdeepbkn@yahoo.co.in) : Exploration of some important nutrients from Angiospermic parasitic plants of thar desert of Rajasthan. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 187-90.

Detection of nutritive contents were analyzed on different plant parts viz. root, stem and flower of cistanche tubulosa (Orobanchaceae) and Orobanche aegyptiaca (Orobanchaceae) complete root parasite on alotropis procera and Brassica campestris, respectively. Crude protein concentration on dry matter basis was found to be higher in flower of Orobanche aegyptiaca when compared with those of various plant parts of Cistanche tubulosa. Amount of ether extract, crude fibre, ash, nitrogen free extract, organic matter, total carbohydrates, calcium, and phosphorus showed considerable variation in the plant species studied. However, maximum amount of ether extract was found in stem of Cistanche tubulosa. The amount of crude fibre was very high in flower of Orobanche aegyptiaca as compared to other arts of same plant and Cistanche tubulosa. Maximum total ash value was observed in the root of Orobanche aegyptiaca. The amount of nitrogen free extract was comparatively high in the root of Cistanche tubulosa. Maximum amount of organic matter was found in the stem of Orobanche aegyptiaca. Total carbohydrate was found maximum in stem of Orobanche aegyptiaca. The amount of calcium and phosphorus was approximately equal in both the plants. However calcium was found maximum in stem of Cistanche tubulosa.

6 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

004350   Wabale A S;Kharde M N (Botany Dep, Padmashri Vikhe Patil College, Loni-413 712) : Ethnomedicinally important plant - Morinda citrifolia. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 151-2.

Explore the ethnomedicinal importance of Morinda citrifolia. Ethnomedicinal uses of M. citrifolia practiced by the tribals of Akole and Sangamner talukas are compared with the medicinal uses of valid publications.

1 illus, 6 ref

004349   Vijaya Kumar B S;Linga Reddy P (Biosciences Dep, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learing, Prasanthi Nilayam-515 134) : V A M fungi associated with Azadirachta indica. J Ecobiol 2008, 22(1), 99-100.

V A M association has been found in the roots of Azadirachta indica. Three VAM species has been isolated and indentified and they are found to be such as Glomus fasciculatum, G. macrocarpum, G. mosseae. Studies on VAM fungal colonization in the roots of neem revealed that the presence of vesicles and arbuscules indicating the mycorrhizal dependency. The percentage of VAM colonization of neem roots was ranging from 70 to 80%.

5 ref

004348   Vijaya Kumar B S (Biosciences Dep, Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning, Prasanthi Nilayam-515 134) : V A M fungi of bamboo in the semi-arid soils of Puttaparthy, Andhra Pradesh. J Ecobiol 2008, 22(1), 97-8.

V A M colonization has been found in the roots of Bambusa indica. Six V A M species have been isolated and identified and they were Glomus fasciculatum, Galbidum, G. tenue, G. segmentarium, G. mosseae and G. etunicatum. Studies on VAM fungal association in te roots of bamboo revealed that the presence of vesicles and arbuscules indicating the mycorrhizal dependency.

6 ref

004347   Vijaya I;Sarada Mani N (Botany Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Email: drnsaradamani@yahoo.com ) : Antimicrobial activity of plant extracts of Ocimum americanum L.. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 211-13.

The dried pulverized plant extracts (methanol, hexane and chloroform) from Ocimum americanum, were screened for its antimicrobial activity against. Escherichia coli, Bacillus subtilis, Erwinia carotorola, Streptococcusjaecalis, Klepsiella pyogenes, Proteus mirabilis, Micrococcus lutes and Enterococcus jaecalis. The results clearly indicate that methanolic plant extract was found to have better activity against all the microbial strains tested followed by chloroform and hexane extracts.

1 table, 9 ref

004346   Victor Singh A (Botany Dep, Government College, Sector-11, Chandigarh, Email: victor_ayamsingh@yahoo.com) : Indigenous plants used by the meiteis of Manipur as food. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 33-40.

Plants are the primary source of raw materials of various useful commodities for mankind. People are in close association with varied plants as the state is surrounded with hills and mountain ranges covered with well rich vegetation influenced by varied climatic factors at different elevations. Meiteis being aware of the surrounding environment, have much knowledge of the plants. More than 80 % of the vegetables are collected from such wild habitats. Though a number of such plants are cultivated yet a lot more needs to be discovered. After repeated visits of Meitei villages and through guidance of elderly persons and headmen lists of203 such plants have been recorded in the study. It is expected that this study will not only bring to light the names of the plants but prove to be useful for mankind. It is further expected that the study will encourage research works in Ethnobotany of the Meiteis of Manipur.

5 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

004345   Verma S;Santosh Kumar;Deepti Singh (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture, Pantnagar-263 145) : Variability for various quantitative traits in rose (Rosa spp.). J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 62-5.

Investigation was conducted at Model Floriculture Centre, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, during 2004-2005 and 2005-2006. The experimental material comprised of 21 Hybrid Tea rose varieties. Under pooled year data study, all the characters under study revealed higher value of genotypic coefficient of variation compared to environment coefficient of variation but lower to phenotypic coefficient of variation indicating the influence of environmental factors. Higher degree of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation was obtained for thorn density followed by length of shoot after one month of bud sprouting, number of flowers per plant, length of sprouted bud, plant spread and length of shoot after 15 days of bud sprouting. Moderate value of GCV and PCV were recorded for days taken to bud sprouting, number of flowers at first flower flush, number of petals per flower, days taken to anthesis, total shelf life and plant spread. Highest degree of environmental coefficient of variation was observed for length of flower bud followed by number of flowers at first flush. Highest heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as per cent mean were observed for thorn density.

1 table, 13 ref

004344   Verma S K;Pandey P K (NO, S.S Memorial College, Ranchi) : Aquatic weeds: a serious problem for water bodies in Jharkhand. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 143-5.

Jharkhand lies between latitude 22°00' and 24°37' North and longitude 83°15' and 87°01' East. It comprises the Santhal Pargana and Chotanagpur with general characteristics of hot climate, undulating plateau, hills, and mountains, intermittent rivers, inefficient agricultural practices, tribal populous with a life style geared with forest ecology, having thick forest cover and large number of water bodies viz. dams, ponds, rivers, water falls, ditches and seasonal nalas. These water bodies harbors a number of plant species. These plants spend at least a part of their life cycle in water. Aquatic plants are important to maintain the aquatic ecosystem. Gregarious or excessive growth of these plants is regarded as aquatic weeds, which adversely influence physical chemical and biological effects on water bodies with its resultant environmental, aesthetic and economic losses.

1 table, 14 ref

004343   Uma Maheswari S;Manimekalai T;Kingsley S (Zoology Dep, Sri Vasavi College, Erode-638 316) : Antifeedant effect of neem on bhendi pest Dysdercus cingulatus (Hemiptera: Pyrrocoridae). J expl Zool 2008, 11(2), 523-5.

Neem tree Azadirachta indica, A. Juss., is one of the most promising carry of antifeedant factors. In the study, the antifeedant effect of neem oil and neem cake extract in different concentrations were evaluated along with the low dose of endosulfan on third instars nymph of Dysdercus cingulatus. The study confirms the antifeedant effect of neem oil and neem cake extract on Dysdercus cingulatus. The test was conducted on laboratory reared Dysdercus cingulatus. High level of feeding deterrency was exhibited at neem oil and neem cake extract 5.0%, while in neem oil 2.0%, 3.5% the deterrent effects declined considerably on their decreased concentrations. Endosulfan 0.05% showed low antifeedant effect than neem cake extract. It was concluded the neem cake extract was found to be highly effective followed by neem oil against Dysdercus cingulatus.

1 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

004342   Thomas B;Lekha Rani C (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, College of Agriculture, Thiruvananthapuram-695 522, Email: beenathomas2008@gmail.com) : Assessment of floral characters in commercial varieties of monopodial orchids. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 15-20.

Evaluated l5 monopodial orchid genotypes belonging to the genera Aranda, Aranthera, Kagawara, Mokara, Rentfnthera and Vanda, which are commercially popular. They were studied with respect to quantitative and qualitative floral characters. The data were statistically analysed in a completely randomized design. Important quantitatve floral traits including number of inflorescences produced per year, length of inflorescence and length and width of flowers were computed. Major qualitative floral characters such as flowering nature, mode of display of flowers, vase life and fullness value were assessed. A clear understanding of these traits is inevitahle for the selection of parents for successful conduct of crop improvement programmes in orchids. Since there is a wide range of variation for most of the traits studied, these genotypes can be utilised further for the production of novel monopodial orchid hybrids.

2 tables, 13 ref

004341   Thakur H A;Patil D A (Botany Dep, N. D. M. V. P. Samaja's Arts, Sci & Comm. College, Saikheda-422 210, Email: henamteuphor@yahoo.co.in) : Foliar epidermal features in some euphorbiaceae. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 171-9.

Deals with detailed structure of foliar stomata and other epi.dermal,features of 17 species belonging 17 genera of the family Euphorbiaceae. Anomocytic stomatal type is predominant, while other types such as paracytic, hexacytic and anisocytic are also noted on the same foliar surface in different combinations. In majority of taxa, the leaves are hypostbmatic, while in few they are amphistomatic. Distribution of stomata, stomatal index, stomatal frequency, stomatal size and other cell wall contours are described in detail.

34 illus, 18 ref

004340   Tahmida Begum Z N;Mandal R;Farzana Binte Amin (Soil Dep, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka-1000, Bangladesh, ) : Influence of nitrogen and phosphorus on the abundance of cyanobacteria. I. Rice field of Nurjahanpur Brahmanbaria, Bangladesh. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 225-7.

A field experiment was conducted in a traditionally rice growing area' at Nurjahanpur in the district of Brahmanbaria to evaluate the impact of N (0, 60,120 kg N ha^-1) and P (0,30,60 kg P ha^-1) fertilizers in all possible combinations on the abundance of cyanobacteria. Results showed that the number of cyanobacteria enumerated at30, 60 and 90 days of transplantation of rice seedling (BR-28) varied significantly from 48.60x 10⁴to 283.70 x10⁴, 54.93xl0⁴ to 331.00xl0⁴ and 48.70x 10⁴ to 312.30x10⁴g^-1 soil, respectively. The maximal and minimal values were recorded in N₆₀ P ₆₀ and N₁₂₀ P₀ treatments, respectively, irrespective of the sampling intervals. Addition of P promoted the growth of cyanobacteria and that of N inhibited their abundance significantly with the increasing level of the fertilizers. Supplementation of P with N stimulated better growth of cyanobacteria reflecting the positive and beneficial interaction P in the presence of lower dose of N significantly. However, at higher dose of N (120 kg ha^-1), P failed to do so.

1 table, 19 ref

004339   Swarnapiria R;Rajmohan K (Horticultural Research Station, , Pechiparai-629 161) : Transformation of dendrobium orchid using agrobacterium tumefaciens. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 9-14.

Transformed orchids were recovered from the protocorm like bodies (PLBs) of Dendrobium when transformed with Agrobacterium tumefaciens strains LBA4404 and EHA105 harbouring the binary vectors pCAMBIA2301, pCAMBIA1301 and PBI121. The PLBs were generated in vitro by culturing the shoot apices on half strength MS medium. Then the PLBs were infected with Agrobacterium tumefaciens by gentle swirling of the PLBs with the bacterial cells obtained from the centrifugation of bacterial suspension, and also with the bacterial suspension diluted to 1/5 v/v with fresh medium. Then the explants were co-cultivated with the bacteria. Initially recovered PLBs following co-cultivation were allowed for further selection with kanamycin. The transformed PLBs regenerated under kanamycin selection, while the untransformed cells could not survive under kanamycin. The transformed PLB's were allowed to grow further with subculturing at fortnightly intervals on selection medium containing 200 mgP kanamycin. The newly formed PLB's and leaves were subjected to histochemical GUS assay and PCR, to confirm the transformation. The PCR amplification of the genomic DNA of the transformed planlets revealed the presence of npt II gene and thus the genetic transformation with Agrobacterium tumefaciens is confirmed.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

004338   Sumathi D;Ramassamy V (Faculty of Botany, Kannagi Govt, Girls Higher Secondary School, , Villiamur, Pondicherry-605 110) : Freak branching in Cocos nucifera L. In Amalapuram district (Andhra Pradesh). J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 245-6.

Branching in coconut palm is rare and so far a few cases of branching have been reported. The report brings out yet another interesting observation of four coconut trees with 1-3 branches (excluding the main trunk) in the two adjacent groves. They include two trees with one branch, one with two and another tree with three branches. This branched trait in those cases is believed to be due to genetic changes caused by mutation in the previous generation as the parent plants of these trees had similar branching.

3 tables, 4 ref

004337   Subasioglu T;Bilkay I S (Faculty of Science, Biology Dep, Hacettepe University, 06532 Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey) : Determination of biosorption conditions of Methyl Orange by Humicola fuscoatra. J scient ind Res 2009, 68(12), 1075.

Effects of biomass concentration, dye concentration, agitation time, initial pH and temperature on dye (Methyl Orange) removal by dead fungal biomass of Humicola fuscoatra. Biosorption capacity was found dependent mainly on dye and adsorbent dosage. Highest adsorption efficiency was achieved with fungal biomass at 0.5g/l. Dye concentration (100 mg/l) was found optimum for maximum dye removal. At acidic pH (3-5) and 30 C, Methyl Orange biosorption increased significantly in first 6 h.

004336   Sivaramane N;Anil Kumar;Singh D R;Arya P (Indian Agricultural Statistics Research Institute, , , Email: sivaramane@yahoo.com) : Economic analysis of traditional and hi-tech rose (Rosa spp.) cultivation. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 21-6.

Rose (Rosa spp.) is grown under traditional and hi-tech cultivation in India. There exists wide difference in the capital investment, variable costs incurred and returns realized in the both production systems. Therefore, the study was undertaken to examine the investments, costs, yields, returns and employment under traditional versus hi-tech cultivation. It was observed that although, the hi-tech farms were capital intensive, require huge initial investment and applied very high doses of inputs such as plant protection chemicals and fertilizers, they performed much better in terms of realization of returns and employment generation in comparison to traditional farms. Regarding gender equity, there was a discrimination against female casual labour working at both the types of farm. To enhance the profitability of rose cultivation, research should be prioritized for developing long-stalked, better shaded and pests and diseases resistant varieties, cost reduction in greenhouse structures and proper market intelligence.

5 tables, 1 ref

004335   Sinha R;Mishra P K (Botany Dep, Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh, Jharkhand) : Blue-green algae utilization in rice field. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 319-20.

Rice is the major crop of Jharkhand state including Hazaribagh. Because of socioeconomic reasons, farmers are not in a position to use urea in 'required dose. Environmental problems related to the use of chemical fertilizer is also well known. Three blue green algae - Nostoc Anabaena and Aphanotheca were tested in rice field and the results obtained were encouraging.

004334   Singh S P;Rashmi Kiran;Anshu Kiran;Prasad B K (University Botany Dep, V. K. S. University, Ara, Bihar) : Significance of pre harvest seedborne fungi of paddy var. Sita. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 89-94.

Altogether 19 spp of fungi belonging to 12 genera of Dematiaceae with varying frequency were isolated from paddy var. Sita seeds 15-20 days ahead of harvesting. Two spp of Fusarium were also present in this stage. Helminthosporium gramineum, H. sativum, Curvularia lunata, Alternaria alternata, A. tenuissima, Cladosporium herbarum, Memnoniella echinata and Fusarium moniliforme were dominant. Both the spp of Alternaria and Helminthosporium, C. geniculata, Periconia minutissima, M. echinata and D. australiensis inflicted brown spot symptom on the seeds when artificially inoculated in pre harvest stage and incubated at 70 and 80 % RH. Most of the fungi caused off-colouration of considerably high per cent of seeds in comparable condition. 2-4% of the seedling raised from the inoculated seeds stored at 60% RH for six month had brown lesions on the root due to a few fungi while in 3-5% seedlings raised from the seeds stored at 70% RH, two additional types of symptoms of disease i.e. water soaked lesion on the root and the foot were observed. The seeds stored with fungi at 80% RH produced more number of seedling affected with above diseases. Besides the above symptoms, the number of fibrous roots were less. Smaller oval brown spots were inflicted .on the leaves by H. wamineum and H. sativum. F moniliforme produced more number of seedlings affected with water soaked lesions. The length of the root and the shoot of the seedlings were significantly (p= 0.001) less due to the pre harvest fungi.

4 tables, 17 ref

004333   Singh D;Swarnkar C P;Khan F A;Bhagwan P S K (NO, Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar, Rajasthan-304 501) : In-vitro ovicidal activity of Azadirachta indica leaf extracts against Haemonchus contortus eggs. Indian J Anim Sci 2008, 78(10), 1108-10.

Both organic and inorganic extracts from the leaves of Azadirachta indica were screened for their ovicidal property against Haemonchus contortus eggs. Only aqueous extract of A. indica leaves showed significant reduction in egg embryonation and egg hatching at a concentration of 1.25 mg/ml, suggesting presence of potent embryonicidal and ovicidal activity. Other type of extracts, viz. alcoholic, ether and chloroform failed to produce any appreciable effect on egg embryonation and hatching.

1 table, 10 ref

004332   Saxena K K;Saxena A K;Prajapati S;Roy S (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Ethnobotanical studies on medicinal plant : Allium cepa L. (onion). J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 315-17.

Discusses the ethnomedicinal importance of A. cepa which is being used by rural people as trible medicine. The bulbs of plant are used in the treatment of various disease and disorders. From chemistry point of view. The drug contains group of biologically active constituents know as Alkyl cystenine sulphoxides, quercetine and kaempferol.

29 ref

004331   Sanjay Kumar;Mathur A (Botany Dep, M.S.J. Govt P.G. College, Bharatpur-321 001) : Localization of metabolites and enzymes in leaf of Salvadora persica. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 191-6.

Deals with leaf galls caused by unknown Itonididae (Diptera). Histochemical studies of normal antrgall tissue have been done. The gall tissue showed relatively higher amount of metabolites. Thus, the normal and gall tissue showed histochemially differential behaviour in terms of metabolites. These results indicate that the higher amount of metabolites favour the gal formation due to the insect attack.

3 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

004330   Ramya I;Naidu K C (Botany Dep, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Antimicrobial activity of some medicinal plant's methanolic extracts againist pathogens of cotton. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 23-7.

The antimicrobial activity of crude methanolic extracts of 15 medicinal plants, used in traditional medicine, were tested against 13 species of microorganisms; Erwinia herbicola. Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Xanthomonas campestris, Sclerotium rolftii. Thielaviopsis basicola. Rhizoetonia solani, Verticillium dahliae. Alternaria alternata, Phoma exigua Desmaz. Cochliobolus spicifer, Tiarosporelia phaseolina, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus causing diseases in cotton. Of the fifteen plants tested, nine plants showed interesting activity against seven species of microorganisms. Rubia cordifolia proved to be most effective with maximum zone of inhibition against all microorganisms compared to other plants.

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

004329   Pramod Kumar;Mishra S;Satya Narain (Duthie Herbarium, Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Extended distribution of rare and less known Ranunculus cantoniensis DC. in Uttar Pradesh. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 147-8.

Ranuncutus cantoniensis DC. of family Ranunculaceae, a rare and less known taxon so far reported only from terai region of Uttar Pradesh, is now reported for the first time from Gangetic plain of the state showing its extended distribution. Brief description along with citation and illustration are provided for easy identification.

2 illus, 2 ref

004328   Pramod Kumar;Kanchan Lata;Satya Narain (Duthie Herbarium, Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Asteraceae of Ghazipur district, Uttar Pradesh, India. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 107-10.

Gives an enumerative account of 33 species belonging to 25 genera of family Asteraceae to the Flora of Ghazipur district (U.P.). Also provides key to the genera, nomenclature, locality and field number of each species collected from the Ghazipur district.

5 ref

004327   Panwar S;Anil Kumar (Plan Implementation and Monitoring Section, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi-110 001, Email: Scientist1775@yahoo.co.in) : Trend analysis of flower production in India. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 72-4.

Floriculture in India is being viewed as a high growth industry. Commercial floriculture is becoming important from the export angle. The liberalization of industrial and trade policies have paved the way for development of export oriented production of cut flowers. The total business of floriculture products in India during 2005 was Rs. 8174lakhs while it increased to Rs.10117lakhs by April 2006. In India, flower production of West Bengal registered the highest compound growth rate of 16.61 per cent followed by Andhra Pradesh (13.74 per cent) and Maharashtra (9.11 per cent). The growing demands of flowers in the domestic as well as the export market will require a concerted effort on the part of the government as well as the private entrepreneurs to develop floriculture on scientific lines.

1 table, 2 ref

004326   Pandey V (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Organogeny and vascular anatomy of the ovule of Gnetum gnemon l.. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 215-19.

The investigation has revealed certain facts about the organogeny and anatomy of the ovule of Gnetum. The ovules are appendicular organ since they originate from the dorsal base of the collar. The cushion arises from the primordia for reproductive organs. Due to intercalary growth, displacement of ovule in the axil of next lower collar takes place. The integuments show acropetal origin. The developmental andantomical studies have little doubt that the integuments belong to the ovule. Glandular cells lining micropylar tube seem to be like micropylar cells of other Gymnosperm to facilitate fertilization.

17 illus, 15 ref

004325   Panda T;Mishra N;Pradhan F C (Botany Dep, S. N. College, Rajkanika-754 220) : Distribution of aspergilli in early stages of succession in coastal sand dunes of Orissa. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 289-91.

Reports 25 species of Aspergilli from coastal soils and adjacent soils with uniculture platation of Casuarina equjsetifolia for a period of two years covering three distinct seasons. Higher percentage contribution of Aspergilli was recorded from unproductive coastal sand dunes in spite of its low nutrient status, which can be due to less competition with other categories of fungi.

3 tables, 7 ref

004324   Pahadiya S;Jaimala (Zoology Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Medicinal uses of Tinospora cordifolia miers. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 83-8.

Medicinal plants have been used to cure human illness since time immemorial. Some of these are believed to promote positive health and maintain organic resistance against infection by re-establishing body equilibrium and conditioning the body tissues. The folk use of plants in medicine is as old as the existence of mankind. Trnospora cordifolia, member of family Menispermaceae, is a large: glabrous deciduous climbing succulent shrub. It climbs on any big or small tree, in the vicinity of which it grows. Giloe, which is climbing on a margosa tree is called as "Neem Giloe", Leaves are chordate and flowers are greenish yellow, fruits are of pea size and red in colour. Mainly freshjuice has medicinal value than the dry one which is extremely bitter in taste. Stem is succulent with long filiform aerial roots arising from branches. Bark is papery thin, wood is soft, flowers are unisexual, fruit is one seeded and fleshy and seeds are curved.

^iia52 ref

004323   Noyon Singh O;Nongdren Kbomba Singh L (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur) : Changes in α-ascorbic acid, pigments and protein in Rumex maritimus Linn. during infection with smut fungus, Ustilago parletoreii F.A> Wal. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 119-22.

Rumex maritimus Linn. is an annual herb, mesophyte, distributed prominiently in Manipur. The plant is normally infected with smut fungus, Ustilago parletoreii, F.A Wal. Both the infected and fresh un infected plant sometimes used as food by a few sections of the people of Manipur. There are fluctuations of α-ascorbic acid, pigments and protein during infection of the plant by this smut fungus.

4 tables, 25 ref

004322   Novon Singh O;Nongdren Khomba Singh L (NO, College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Imphal, Manipur) : Variation of nitrogenous compounds in Rumex maritimus Linn. furing infection with Ustilago parletoreii, F. A. wal. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 135-8.

Rumex maritimus is an annual herb growing wild in different marshy places Manipur. The plant is also used as food vegetables by the local people of Manipur. The plant is often infected with the smut fungus mostly at the midribs and branch ribs of the leaves and soft portion of the stem. During the infection with the smut fungus Ustilago parletoreii different metabolic changes take place. There are variation of nitrogenous compounds-total nitrogen, soluble and insoluble nitrogen fractions, nitrates, nitrites and amino acids in the leaves and stems during the infection.

4 tables, 19 ref

004321   Mukta Singh S (Botany Dep, D. M. College of Science, Imphal-795 001) : Auricularia species in Manipur and its artificial cultivation. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 311-14.

Four species of Auricularia viz. A. polytricha, A. delicata, A. mensenierica and A. aurcula are reported and described from Manipur, The yield potential of A. polytricha by growing both on synthetic log and paddy straw in also investigated.

1 illus, 15 ref

004320   Mohrir M N (NO, Pratishthan Mahavidyalaya, Paithan-431 107) : Genetic variation analysis in advance stage hybrids of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) under rainfed condition. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 237-8.

The genetic variability studies were carried out in twenty-one advance stage hybrids, This may give clue for identification of potential recombinants in segregating generation, which could, strengthen breeding programme. Six important characters were undertaken for study. In study, high values were obtained for heritability and genetic advance for seed cotton yield. Therefore, phenoªtypic selection in segregating generation will help in developing cotton varieties.

1 table, 8 ref

004319   Mishra P;Patni V (Plant Pathology, Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory, Departme, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Phenolics and oxidative enzymes in leaf galls of Quercus leucotrichophora. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 261-4.

Quercus leucotrichophora A Camus (Bluejack oak) is found distributed throughout Himalayan region in India. Epiphyllous, pustule like galls on the tree are caused by Eriophyes mite. Hypophyllous, fruit like galls are induced by cecidomyiid (Dipteran). Biochemical studies including different phenolics and oxidative enzymes of both the galls and normal leaf have been carried out. Most of the phenolics, involved in defense mechanism have been estimated higher in the gall tissues. Isozyme analysis of peroxidase was analysed by PAGE (poly Acrylamide Gel Electrophoresis). Two bands were detected in normal and gall tissues, banding intensity was more in galls. Intense activity and banding pattern of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activity could be correlated to accumulation of phenolics and condensed tannins in galls.

7 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

004318   Marmit K S;Patni V;Sharma S L (Plant Pathology, Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory, Botany D, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004) : Differential localization of metabolites in leaf galls of Mangifera indica induced by Amradiplosis Allahabadensis grover. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 57-62.

The purpose of the study was to understand the definite alteration of metabolic activity at cellular level in Mangifera indica leaf galls induced by Amradiplosis allahabadensis. A marked difference in the anatomy was observed between gall and normal tissue. Histochemical studies revealed highest activities of the enzymes and various metabolites in the hypertrophied cells. High content of metabolites viz. starch, cellulose, proteins, etc. were observed in gall tissues as compared to normal counter parts, similarly high enzymatic activities of acid phosphatase, polyphenol oxidase and peroxidase were observed in the leaf galls. A functional elaboration in the cells closer to the feeding site during cecidogenesis was evident. Their differential response of enzymes and metabolites at cellular level of the host proved advantageous to the gall forming insect.

2 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

004317   Malabadi R B;Vijay Kumar S (Forest Biotechnology Lab (6.06), Instituto de Technologia Quimica e Biologica (ITQB), Universidade Nova, Av. Da Republica, Apartado 127, 2781-901, Oeiras, Portugal, Email: malabadi@itqb.unl.pt) : Evaluation of antifungal property of medicinal plants. J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 139-42.

Reports for the first time the antifungal activity of some medicinal plants used by the traditional healers for the treatment of skin infection. The leaf extract of plant species were screened against fungal pathogens Candida albicans, uyeromyces polys porous, Aspergillus niger, and Aspergillus fumigatus. In antifungal activity screening, methanolic extracts of plant species showed a very good activity against all the tested fungal pathogens. MIC values were determined by checking the growth after 24 and 48 h to determine the antifungal activity against the tested pathogens. MIC values of leaf extracts of Trifolium pepens are in the order of 0.02 to 0.48. The acetone extracts of Swertia trichotoma showed the highest antifungal activity against A. fumigatus. Exeplains the use of these plants by the indigenous people against a number of infections.

2 tables, 19 ref

004316   Mahato S C;Sahu H B (P.G. Botany Dep, Ranchi University, Ranchi-834 001) : Traditional therapeutical knowledge of the indigenous people of panch pargana (Jharkhand) on sacred plant. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 293-6.

The plants, used in religious ceremonies, are referred to as sacred plants. Study reveals the traditional therapeutical properties of 24 sacred plants of PanchPargana (Jharkhand), which are used in religious rites, rituals and ceremonies by the indigenous people, both, tribes and non-tribes of the area. These plants don't only have sacred utility but also have medicinal potential and are used for curing different ailments in folk uses. The use of leaves Aegle marmelos for cough and stomachache, roots of Achyranthus as era for gynecological problems, twigs of Cynoaoidan dactylon for relief during painful menstruation for stop profuse bleeding and leaves of Clitoria ternatea applied an forehead for eye pain, bark and leaf decoction of Ficus religiosa for spermatorrhoea and flower of Hibiscus rosa-sinesis for leucorrhoea are some of the most specific and significant observations.

12 ref

004315   Madhu Bala;Ramesh Kumar;Kushal Singh (Floriculture and landscaping, College of Agriculture, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: madhu_flori@rediffmail.com) : Effect of pulsing and holding solutions on keeping quality of cut flowers of rose (Rosa spp.). J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 54-7.

Experiments were conducted to study the effect of pulsing as well as holding solutions for enhancing keeping quality of cut rose (Rosa spp.) stems in cv. Queen Elizabeth. Among different chemicals tested, pulsing with Al₂(SO₄)₃ 16H₂O (300 ppm) + sucrose (3%) was found to be the most effective treatment for improving final stage of bud opening (4.00), flower diameter (9.38 cm), per cent increase in bud size '(276.31), vase-life (9.66 d) and volume of solution absorbed/stem (54.11 ml). In case of holding solutions, treatment with l.5%sucrose + 300 ppm Al₂(SO₄)₃. 16H₂p was found to be the best treatment for improving final stage of bud opening (4.00), flower diameter (10.15 cm, per cent increase in bud size (288.47), vase life (8.46 d) and volume of solution absorbed/stem (49.66 ml).

2 tables, 7 ref

004314   Madhu Bala;Ramesh Kumar; (Floriculture and Landscaping Dep, College of Agriculture, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: madhu_flori@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of rose (Rosa spp.) cultivars for postharvest attributes. J ornamental Hort 2008, 11(1), 77-8.

^ssc1 table, 4 ref

004313   Kumar V;Poornima D V;Anuradha C M;Kumar Chitta S (Biochemistry Dep, Kuvembu University Post Graduate Centre, Shivagangothri, Davangere-577 022) : Biochemical changes associated with in vitro organogenesis in callus cultures of fig (Ficus carica). J Ecobiol 2008, 22(2), 183-8.

Calls cultures were initiated in nodal segments of fig (Ficus carica) on auxin supplemented medium. Thus induced callus transferred onto high cytokinin to low auxin supplemented medium to induce organogenesis. The event of in vitro organogenesis was studied by monitoring the changes in certain metabolite concentrations and hydrolytic enzyme activities in both organ forming and non-organ forming callus cultures from day 0 to day 25. Total sugar content (4.2 to 9.5), reducing sugar content (3.2 to 7.2), non-reducing sugar content (1.0 to 2.3), starch content (1.7 to 6.5) and total protein contents (0.5 to 8.6) were observed to be accumulated more in organ forming callus cultures than in non-organ forming callus cultures. Similarly specific activities of certain hydrolytic enzymes such as a-amylase (89.3 to 82.6), acid phosphatase (95.6 to 158.6), alkaline phosphatase (56.4 to 74,5) and protease (0.5 to 0.7) we e also increased in organ forming callus cultures compared to non-organ forming callus cultures.

2 tables, 24 ref

004312   Kumar G;Pandey S (Plant Genetics Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002, Email: kumar_girjesh@yahoo.com) : Morphogenetic impact of gamma irradiation in Linum unitatissimum L. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 265-8.

Induced mutations are usually restored to create variability not available in the gene pool or to correct specific deficiency of an otherwise outstanding genotype, since gamma-rays have proved to be very effective in inducing variability and also in increasing the mutation frequencies therefore, these are currently being used in gentic improvement programmes of different plant species. In view of that cytological investigations were carried out in experimental set of Linum usitatissimum L. irradiated at different doses of gamma rays. The plants showed varying degree of meiotic irregularities, almost at all the treament doses. The various types of meiotic abnormalities included scattering, unorientation, non-synchronous division, secondary association, multivalent-formation etc.

9 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

004311   Kare M A;Dhabe A S;Bhuktar A S (NO, Government College of Arts & Science, Aurangabad) : Morphological, anatomical and phytochemical studies on bark of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 257-9.

Aegle marmelos (L.)Corr. is belongs to family Rutaceae. Itis known as Sriphala, Bael, Bela, Bilva, Baelfruit, Bill, Bilum, Bilvaphal, Sriphal and Bilva. The bark is used in various ayurvdic preparations. It is also used in hypochondriasis, melancholia and palpitation of heart and stomach pain, intestinal disorders and nervous diseases. The quality of bark which available in the form of pieces or fine powder in market is doubtful. Therefore, attempts were made to standardize the bark by studying its morphology, anatomy, and phytochemistry. By applying above parameters in combination, the bark of A. marmelos can be standardized.

2 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

004310   Kanta Rani;Varsney U K (Botany and Plant Physiology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004) : Efffect of iso-osmotic water and salt stress on germination and early seedling growth of isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.). J phytol Res 2008, 21(1), 77-81.

The germination and early seedling growth of Isabgol cv. HI-5 under iso-osmotic water and salt stress 'was assessed in Petri-dishes at various stress levels 0, -0.2, -0.4, -0.6, -0.8, -1.0 and -1.2 MPa. Osmotic effect was mainly responsible for the inhibition of seed germination. Osmotic (water) stress induced by PEG was relatively more inhibitory to germination than that caused by salt. The effects of chloride and sulphate salts were not distinct at iso-osmotic stress levels. Increase of osmotic stress significantly reduced the speed of seed germination (Maguire Index). Maximum delay in germination was found under PEG induced water stress followed by sulphate salt and chloride salt. Root length of seedlings was promoted by NaCl and PEG. A general reduction in cotyledonary leaf length was recorded under water stress. Maximum reduction was observed under PEG induced water stress followed by NaCI and Na₂SO₄. Seedling vigour was increased only by low osmotic stress levels of PEG and NaCl. More than 50 per cent decline in seedling vigour occured at -0.8 MPa osmotic potential of NaCl and PEG while at -0.6 MPa of Na₂SO₄. The iso-osmotic water and salt stress in general caused reduction in dry weight of root as well as cotyledonary leaves of seedlings, Na₂SO₄ was found more inimical in this respect than NaCl and PEG.

4 tables, 18 ref

004309   Kanchan Lata;Satya Narain (Duthie Herbarium, Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Additions to the family asteraceae in flora of Allahabad. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 277-9.

Gives an enumerative account of 12 species belonging to 10 genera of family Asteraceae which are new addition to the Flora of Allahabad (U.P.). Also provides nomenclature, description, locality and field number of each species collection from the Allahabad district.

14 ref

004308   Jayasree M;Sreedevi P (NO, National College, Thiruvananthapuram) : Pollen and papillae dimorphism in Pentas lanceolata colour variants. J phytol Res 2008, 21(2), 233-6.

Pollen grain and stigmatic papillae morphology in three colour variants of Pentas collected from various ocalities of Thiruvananthapliram was studied by scanning electron microscope. Pollen and papillae dimorphism was observed in all the three colour variants. The thrum morphs showed the presence of 4-zonocolporate pollen whereas the pin morphs produced 3-zonocolporate pollen. The presence of a centrally placed ring like structure on the aperture is another distinguishing feature of thrum pollen which is a new report. The stigmatic papillae showed a significant difference in length between the morphs, and between the colour variants as well.

3 illus, 7 ref