000328   Kovaleva L V;Zakharova E V;Minkina Y V; Voronkov A S (Timiryazev Institute of Plant Physiology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Botanicheskaya Street 35, Moscow-127 276, Russia, Email: kovaleva_1@mail.ru) : Effects of flavonols and phytohormones on germiation and growth of petunia male gametophyte. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(1), 51-61.

Determined the contents of endogenous phytohormones and flavonols on in vitro germinating petunia (Petunia hybrida L.) male gametophyte and their effects on petunia pollen germination and pollen tube growth. The germination and growth of pollen tubes on the cultivation medium (containing 0.4 M sucrose and 1.6 mM H₃BO₃) increased the contents of IAA, ABA, gibberellins, cytokinins and flavonols (quercetin and kaempferol). The qualitative effects of exogenous compounds depended on their nature and concentration. All test compounds were most stimulatory at 10^-12 M concentration. The applied exogenous ABA and gibberellin A₃ stimulated the germination and growth of male gametophyte at all test concentrations (10^-12-10^-3 M). Gibberellin A₃, proved most stimulatory to growth of pollen tubes. IAA stimulated the germination and growth of male gametophyte at 10^-12 - 10^-8 M concentrations, whereas, the inhibition was observed at 10^-4 - 10^-3 M concentrations. The test flavonols, stimulated both processes at 10^-12-10^-10 M concentrations and caused inhibition at 10^-6-10^-3 M concentrations. Synthetic cytokinin 6-BAP at 10^-12-10^-3 M concentrations inhibited both the germination and growth of pollen tubes. The 2,4-chlorphenoxy-2-methylpropionic acid (inhibitor of IAA transport) completely blocked both the processes, while the fluridone and paclobutrasol (known inhibitors of synthesis of ABA and gibberellins respectively), only inhibited the germination and growth of male gametophyte. in the presence of 2,4-chlorphenoxy-2-methylpropionic acid (inhibitor of IAA transport), exogenous ABA, gibberellin A₃ and flavonols did not stimulate pollen germination.

8 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

000327   Koca U;Sekeroglu N;Ozkutlu F (Pharmacognosy Dep, Pharmacy Faculty, Gazi Univ, 06100, Ankara-Turkey, Email: ukoca@gazi.edu.tr) : Mineral composition of Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb. an endemic medicinal plant from Turkey. Biomed 2009, 4(1), 51-6.

Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb., a perennial endemic medicinal plant species from Turkey, has widely been used in traditional medicine to heal various kinds of wounds for ages in Anatolia. Production of secondary metabolites in vitro conditions has recently raised interest in agro-industry. Determining optimum mineral composition of MS media could enable to produce higher secondary metabolite yields. Additionally, excessive heavy metal concentrations of the most used parts of medicinal plants may result some serious health problems. For these purposes, mineral compositions of different plant parts such as root and root barks, and the soils in growing area were studied by means of ICP-AES. Plant and soil mineral compositions were also evaluated with comparisons. As a result, it was found that both plant parts and the soil were rich in Ca and Fe minerals. Plant could uptake high iron even if Fe concentrations low in soil. The distinctive characteristics of Arnebia densiflora (Nordm.) Ledeb was high amount of iron capturing ability in alkaline soils. Heavy metal content and other mineral concentrations were in the normal ranges which were given in previous studies.

1 table, 14 ref

000326   Kiran B R;Puttaiah E T;Raghavendra S; Vijayakumara (P.G. Studies and Research in Environmental Science Dep, Kuvempu Univ, Shankaraghatta, Karnataka) : Plant diversity in Bhadravathi region of Kharnataka, India. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 213-16.

Karnataka state is unique example from floristic diversity point of view. In the study, a total of 94 plant species belonging to 53 families have been recorded from Bhadravathi region of Karnataka during January and December 2006. The investigation also reveals that the ecological balance is being upset due to the rapid rise of human population and their increased demands for more utilization of natural resources. The existing natural vegetation are protecting our living environment. This article stresses the needful attention to be given to develop plantation models and promoting species that truly meet the needs of local population and farmers in different agro ecological zones in the light of recent development in the field of environment.

1 table, 6 ref

000325   Khilari K;Mukhopadhyay A N;Yadav R S (Plant Pathology Dep, Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Meerut-250 110, Email: khilari2008@rediffmail.com) : Effect of volatile and non-volatile compounds of R. koningii and G. virens on growth of S. rolfsii, R. solani and F. oxisporum f.sp. ciceri. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4B), 1961-4.

Effect of volatile and non-volatile compounds produced by antagonistic fungi Trichoderma koningii and Gliocladium virens was studied on soil borne plant pathogens viz. Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizactonia solani and Fusarium oxisporum f.sp.ciceri. Actively growing G. virens and T. koningii produced volatile and non-volatile compounds which significantly inhibited the radial growth of all the three pathogens. Maximum inhibition by volatile compounds on S. rolfsii (22.6 and 23%) R. solanii (25.9 and 47.6%) and F. oxsysponan f. sp. ciceri (5.6%) was recorded when three day old culture of both the antagonistic fungi was used. While in non-volatile compounds four day old culture of G. virens and T. koningii showed maximum inhibition of S. rolfsii (19.8 and 21.9%) and R. solani (54.7 and 52.5%). While 6 day old culture filtrate of both the antagonistic fungi resulted in maximum inhibition of F. oxsysporum f.sp. ciceri.

4 tables, 9 ref

000324   Keshamma E;Sreevathsa R;Madusudhan B;Prasad T G (Biochemistry Dep, Centre for Nanoscience and Technology Research, Kuvempu Univ, P.G. Centre, Shivagangotri, Davangere-577 002, Email: prasadtg77@yahoo.com) : Transformability in field bean (uidA :: npt II) by Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated in planta strategy. J Pl Biol 2008, 35(1), 31-7.

Non-tissue culture-based method of generating transgenic field bean (Lablab purpureus L.) plants using Agrobacteriuin-Ti plasmid-mediated transformation system. The protocol involves raising of whole plant transformants (T₀ plants) directly from Agrobacterium-infected young seedlings. The plumular and intercotyledonary meristcms of the seedling axes are targeted for transformation. The resulting chimeric plants are allowed to grow in the greenhouse and the transgcnics are analysed in theTi generation. Putative transformants at the seedling level arc screened on 250 n,g nil"' kanamycin and continued for growth in the greenhouse. Out of 160 plants that survived on kanamycin, 72 were PCR positive for both uidA. and nptll genes. Southern analysis further confirmed the transgenic nature. This resulted in ~ 20.5% of the TI plants being transgenic, which nevertheless have to be analysed in the subsequent generation for their stability. The protocol ensured generation of transgenic field bean plants with considerable ease in a short time and might be applicable across different genotypes/cultivars of the crop and offers immense potential as a supplemental or an alternate protocol for generating transgenic plants of difficult-to-regenerate crops.

4 illus, 26 ref

000323   Kedia S;Kasera P K;Mohammed S (Laboratory of Plant Ecology, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 033, Email: jnvupkkasera@yahoo.co.in) : Phytochemical analysis during different seasons and growth stages in Phyllanthus fraternus, an improtant medicinal plant of the Indian arid zone. J Pl Biol 2008, 35(1), 47-51.

Deals with phytochcinical analysis of Phyllanthus fralernus during different seasons and growth stages. The results revealed that leaf pigments, proline, osmotic potential (OP), erude protein and phosphorus varied significantly with different growth stages and seasons. Summer season is most favourable for maximum accumulation of leaf pigments and prolinc, while winter for OP, crude protein and phosphorus. Total sugars were highest during rainy season. The highest values of leaf pigments, OP and crude protein and total sugars were recorded during (lowering and seedling stages, respectively. Maximum accumulations of proline and phosphorus were observed at vegetative stage. An attempt has been made to understand correlations between proline accumulations with the OP. Maximum amount of proline was recorded during summer season with minimum values of OP during rainy season.

2 tables, 32 ref

000322   Kare M A;Dhabe A S;Bhuktar A S (Botany Dep, Dr. B.A.M. Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Bark of Acacia nilotica (L.) Del. subsp. Indica (Benth.) brenan.. Geobios 2008, 35(4), 292-4.

Acacia nilotica (L.) Del. subsp. indica (Benth.) Brenan. (Family: Mimosaceae) is popularly known as Bavarij Kinkirata, Babula, Kjkar and Babhul, The bark is used in various Ayurvedic preparations. The quality of the bark, which is available in the form of pieces or fine powder in market, is doubtful because it may get adulterated with the other plant materials of similar appearance. The bark of A. nilotica can be easily identified on the basis of its external features, anatomical characters as well as nature of macerated cells. Attempts were made here to standardize the bark.

2 illus, 5 ref

000321   Kannan N D;Kulandaivelu G (School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021, Email: gkplant@yahoo.co.in) : Effects of light quality on light harvesting complex and withanolides in tropical medicinal plant Withania somnifera. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(1), 129-37.

Studied the the effects of light intensities: ambient and low light on physiological and phytochemical changes in Withania. Low light grown plants accumulated more chlorophylls (Chl) and less carotenoids (Car), flavonoids and anthocyanins compared to ambient light. The ambient light adapted plants exhibited higher photochemical activities in isolated chloroplast than in low light plants. Thylakoid membrane protein analysis showed the presence of four proteins of light harvesting Chl-II (LHC-II) apoproteins and their level slightly increased in low light than in ambient light plants. HPTLC analysis revealed that the level of withaferin A increased by 5% in ambient compared to low light.

4 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

000320   Jalal J S;Rawat G S;Pankaj Kumar (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Post Box No.18, Dehradun-248 001) : Abundance and habitat types of orchids in Gori valley, Eastern Uttarakhand. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 63-7.

Gori valley is located in the eastern part of the state Uttarakhand (29° 5'-30° 10'N latitudes and 79° 45'- 81 °5'E longitudes). This valley supports as many as 121 species of orchids out of 255 species reported from Western Himalaya. Hence it can be regarded as one of the orchid hotspots in the region. Distribution and abundance of orchids were studied in this valley covering various habitats and topographic features. 84 line transects (1 km each) were laid for systematic search of orchids. Along each transect orchid species and number was recorded within quadrats of 1 m² at an interval of 50 m and also along the line of walk. A total 73 species (25 ground, 30 epiphytic and 18 lithophytic) of orchids were recorded. A total of 9 habitat types were identified. Maximum abundance of ground orchids was recorded within grassy slopes adjacent to Banj oak (Quercus leucotrichophora), whereas, alpine marsh meadows had the lowest abundance. Epiphytic orchids were most abundant in the riverine forest. A total of 59 host species were identified, of which 45.7% trees were deciduous, 3.3% deciduous shrubs, 42.3% evergreen, 5.0% evergreen shrubs and 1.6% (palm and woody climber each). Maximum species of epiphytic orchids were recorded on Toona ciliata (27) followed by Engelhadrtia spicata (17), Quercus leucotrichophora (15), Pinus roxburghii (9) and Sapium insigne (9). Interestingly, woody climber (Bauhinia vahlii) and a palm (Phoenix humtiis) also supported a number of epiphytic orchids. Aerides multiflora, Eria pubescens, Luisia zelyanica and Pholidota articulata had the maximum number of host species. This paper also deals with the major threats to the orchids in this valley and conservation implications.

4 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

000319   Jain P K;Ravichandran V;Agrawal R K (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Dr. Hari Singh Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : Screening of antioxidant activity of traditionally used three medicinal plants. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 197-201.

Antioxidant properties of methanol extract of three medicinal plants viz, Centella asiatica, Asparagus racemosus and Withania somnifera that probably involve free radical mechanisms, were evaluated by the methods, namely the ABTS (2, 2'-azinobis-3-ethyl-benzothiozoline-6-sulphonic acid) radical scavenging assay, Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity assay (TEAC) and Oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) assay. The methanol extract from Centella asiatica was most active in the ABTS assay with an IC₅₀ value of 211.46 mg/mL followed by Asparagus racemosus with IC₅₀ value of 239.34mg/mL. The minimum free radical scavenging activity showed by Withania somnifera with IC₅₀ value of 251.81 mg/mL. The Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity of the methanolic extract of various plants was in order of Withania somnifera > Centella asiatica > Asparagus racemosus. The gallic acid used as control the TEAC value was obtained 1 7 μmol/g. In the Oxygen radical absorbance capacity assay the ORAC value of Centella asiatica was found maximum 211.5 μ moles TEno./ g and followed by Asparagus racemosus and Withania somnifera showed 31.3 μ moles TEno./ g and 29.7 μ moles TEno./g, respectively. The present study suggests that all the tested plant materials have moderate to potent antioxidant activity.

1 illus, 3 tables

000318   Jain P K;Ravichandran V;Agrawal R K (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Dr. Hari Singh Gour Univ, Sagar, Madhya Pradesh) : High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of withanolides in Withania somnifera. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 172-4.

Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) is used in Indian traditional medicine, Ayurveda and is believed to have a variety of health promoting effects. Withanolides are the most important bioactive constituents of the roots of Ashwagandha. As this plant is increasingly becoming a popular adaptogenic, analytical methods for its identification and quality control are in demand. Thus, a HPLC method for the determination of withanolides was developed. The correlation coefficient obtained for the linearity was 0.996. The recovery value of standard withanolides was 99.63%. The system was successfully used to investigate the presence of the withanolides in Withania somnifera plant parts as well as to analyze several commercial products.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

000317   Islam M M;Huda M K (Botany Dep, Chittagong Univ, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh) : Ecology and distribution pattern of epiphytic orchids in sylhet region of Bangladsh. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 85-90.

Ecology and distribution pattern of epiphytic orchids on the host trees in the different sites of greater Sylhet region of Bangladesh were investigated during early monsoon, late monsoon and winter. Detailed ecological information of 1 2 epiphytic orchid species and their pattern of distribution on their host were observed. Acampe papillosa, Aerides odorata and Cymbidium aloifolium were found the most frequently distributed epiphytic orchids in this region. Few host tree species e.g. Lagerstroemia speciosa, Artocarpus chaplasha and Tectona grandis bear a large number of clumps of orchids on them. Frequency of colonisation in epiphytic orchids is higher on larger host trees, probably due to have had more time and more surfaces to accumulate seeds on them. Orchids are distributed on a wide range of host trees. In the present study, 41 tree species have been reported here as phorophytes of orchids in the studied sites. Orchids are distributed at different height and on different branches of the phorophyte. Maximum numbers of orchid clumps were observed at the height of 16-20 feet on host trees. On the other hand, main stem of host trees bear maximum number of orchid clumps on them. Hence, epiphytic orchid diversity and their abundance depend on the pattern and structure of the host trees. So conservation of old, large trees with emphasizing on orchid bearing trees can be strategies for future sustainable management and natural regeneration.

4 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

000316   Indira S;Abubacker M N (Chemistry Dep, National College, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu) : Synthesis and antifungal activity of some copper (II)- Schiff base complexes. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 190-3.

Synthesized copper (II) schiff base complexes were tested for antifungal activity against aflatoxin producing Aspergillus flavus (NCBT 101) and plant pathogenic Rhizotonia solani (NCBT 194). Aquo (glycylglycinato) copper (II) perchlorate, (Glycylglycylglicinato) copper (II) and sodium (salicylideneglycyldycinato) copper (II) complexes were more effective antifungal agents at 200 ppm concentration. Aquo (N-salicylidene neglycinato copper (II) and aquo (N-salicylidene -o-phenylene diamine) copper (II) complexes were highly-effective and more potent antifungal agents at 50ppm concentration, 100 and 200ppm concentrations are partly effective.

1 table, 9 ref

000315   Huda M K;Wilcock C C (Botany Dep, Chittagnog Univ, Chittagong 4331, Bangladesh) : Diversity and evolutionary trends in pollinia of epiphytic and terrestrial orchids of Bangladesh. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 49-54.

Deals with the diversity, and evolutionary trends of both epiphytic and terrestrial orchids o1 Bangladesh. The pollinia of different orchid species, both epiphytic and terrestrial from Bangladesh were studied for the first time for their size, shape and surface sculpture. Most of the epiphytic species (n = 72) had four (55.56%) and non-sectile (100%) pollinia in a flower. While the terrestrial species (n = 27) had two pollinia (70.37%) with both sectile (67%) and non-sectile (33%) pollinia in a flower. The results also showed that considering the evolutionary point view, epiphytic orchids are more advanced than that of terrestrial. The surface sculptures of pollinia were found to have varied from genus to genus and even that of species to species. Size, shape and sculpture in orchid species might be the important taxonomic characters to distinguish one species from other.

56 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

000314   Hoagland R (USDA, ARS, Southern Weed Science Research Unit, P.O. Box 350, Stoneville, MS 38776, USA, Email: bob.hoagland@ars.usda.gov) : Phytotoxicity of microbial antibiotics helvolic and fusidic acids. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(1), 167-74.

Phytotoxicity of high purity helvolic acid and a related compound, fusidic acid was assessed using multiple growth and biochemical endpoints performed on tissues of several plant species. Bioassay tests for phytotoxicity of helvolic (0.25 mM) and fusidic (0.50 mM) acids were conducted on weed and crop species including : germination/growth (seeds/seedlings) of hemp sesbania [Sesbania exalta (Raf.) Rydb.], sicklepod (Cassia obtusifolia L.), mung bean (Vigna radiata L.), wheat (Triticuin aestivum L.), and cucumber (Cucumis saliva L.; leaf disk electrolyte leakage of corn (Zea mays L.) and giant ragweed (Ambrosia trifida L.) leaf tissues; and greening of etiolated tissues of hemp sesbania, sicklepod, wheat (Triticuin aestivum L.), mung bean, and sorghum (Sorghum vulgare L.) tissues. Fusidic acid reduced the chlorophyll accumulation in hemp sesbania (95%), wheat (70%), mung bean (60%), sorghum (60%) and sicklepod (48%); helvolic acid at this low concentration had only weak effects, except in mung bean. Neither compound affected the germination at the concentrations used, but both inhibited the seedling growth of all test species except sicklepod and helvolic acid-treated hemp sesbania. Both chemicals increased the electrolyte leakage in corn and giant ragweed leaf disks after 48-h exposure. Overall these natural products have broad-range phytotoxicity and may affect the plants directly or indirectly via antibiotic effects on soil/rhizosphere organisms.

4 illus, 21 ref

000313   Gurudeva M R;Govindappa D A (Botany Dep, Visveswarapura College of Science, Bangalore-560 041) : Ontogeny and organization of female gametophyte in Epidendrum radicans Pavon. Ex Lindl. (Orchidaceae). J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 73-6.

Ontogeny and organization of female gametophyte in Epidendrum radicans Pavon. ex Lindl. was studied. The ovule is anatropous, bitegmic and tenuinucellate. The inner integument alone forms the micropyle. The megaspore of a triad nearest to the chalaza develops into an 8-nucleate Polygonum type of embryo sac. Double fertilization occurs in a normal manner.

18 illus, 29 ref

000312   Gupta I P (Botany Dep, Ranchi College, Ranchi-834 008, Email: ishwariprasadgupta@rediffmail.com) : Ethnobotanical studies of Mandu block (Ramgarh) Jharkhand. Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 127-9.

The plants belonging to 18 genera, 18 species and 18 families have been documented based on the traditional knowledge of their use for treatment of various diseases in Mandu block.

1 table, 7 ref

000311   Gupta I P (Botany Dep, Ranchi College, Ranchi-834 008, Email: ishwariprasadgupta@rediffmail.com) : Ethnomedicinal uses of indigenous plants of Kanke block, Ranchi (Jharkhand). Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 85-7.

Plants and their parts parts/products have been in use as medicine since very ancient time. Majority of population of Kanke block, the study area still depends on forest products for their livelihood and health security. The people of the study area have expertise in utilizing different plant parts as nedicine for the treatment of all sorts of aliments. Study deals with the enlistment and documentation of traditional therapeutic properties of such indigenous medicinal plants which are in practice for the treatment of all sorts of ailments by inhabitants of the study area.

1 table, 8 ref

000310   Ghosh A (NO, , C/O Tushar Dutta, I/E-5, Mitra Compound, P.O. Midnapore, Dist. Paschim Medinipur-721 101) : Source-sink relationship during monocarpic senescence of Pachyrhizus angulatus (Papilionaceae) and Papaver somniferum (Paraveraceae). Geobios 2008, 35(4), 286-8.

In control plants of Pachyrhizus angulatus having storage root and reproductive sink organs, the plants senesced earlier (as determined by the loss of chlorophyll) as compared to those of deflorated and deshooted ones. At harvest the dry weight of storage roots was achieved in the order: deshooted>deflorated>normal. Prior to harvest in Papaver somniferum, the levels of chlorophyll and protein in the leaves of defruited was higher than deflorated or control indicating the senescence pattern as control>deflorated >defruited. Evidently, the presence of latex along with seeds is more lethal than that of flowers.

2 tables, 10 ref

000309   Gao Z;Meng C;Ye N (School of Life Sciences, Shandong Univ of Technology, 255049, Zibo, China, Email: zq77232002@yahoo.com) : Localization and behaciour of actin microfilaments in laticiferous cells of Hevea brasiliensis in latex exploitation. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2008, 17(2), 189-92.

Actin microfilaments of laticiferous cells and bark wounds in Hevea brasiliensis were studied using TRITC-phalloidin fluorescent microscopy. Actin in latex from mature rubber trees was also investigated using SDS-PAGE and western-boltting. TRITC-fluorescent substance plugged the end of laticifers when latex flow stopped. Actin was detected only in C serum among the four latex fractions. Higher actin content was found in the latex collected at the beginning of tapping than in that collected just before latex flow stopped. Lower actin content was detected in the latex from rubber trees with more intensive exploitation. Study indicated that actin microfilaments might play an important role in regulation of latex flow and plugging of the laticifers wounds.

^ssc4 illus, 11 ref

000308   El-Ayeb A;Omezzine F;Haouala R (Biology Dep, Higher Institute of Biotechnology of Monastir, Monastir, 5000, Tunisia, Email: rabiahaouala@yahoo.fr) : Status of pollen allelopathy research. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(1), 71-83.

Pollen allelopathy plays key role in normal plant fertilization in biocenosis. Allelochemicals released from the pollens of foreign spp. on the stigma of other spp. interferes with the pollen germination or tube growth, stigma or style receptivity, ovule development, respiration, seedling germination and/or growth), leaf chlorophyll, seed set and non-specialist pollinators or nectarivores. Besides these allelochemicals also affects the reproductive success or failure of recipient plant spp. and leads to weed-crop and crop-weed interactions, when many crops and weeds exist together. Pollen allelopathy may delay the flowering in weeds to less favourable season or diurnal period to reduce the weeds pressure, hence, it may be used in Ecological Weed Management. This review provides the Current Status of Allelopathy Research.

3 illus, 3 tables, 43 ref

000307   Dixit A K (Plant Science Dep, K.M. Centre for P.G. Studies, Lawspet, Puducherry) : New reports on terricolous mucorales of Pondicherry, India. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 277-80.

Study is the first attempt towards the preparation of fungal flora of Pondicherry. Presently only terricolous spices of order Mucorales are included in the study. Soil samples have been collected from various locations of Lawspet and cultivated artificially on various types of culture media. Fungi were identified by direct examination and isolation by cultural methods. Total 23 species belonging to 8 genera and 6 families were identified from the study area.

^iia2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

000306   Devi J;Mathews A (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat-785 013) : Identification of an ideal tissue of orchids for isozyme analysis. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 11-14.

Analysis for two isozymes namely esterase and glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (GOT) was carried out using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE) to identify the ideal tissue (leaf, root, petal, pollen) of orchids, for isozyme analysis. It was observed that petals and leaves follow a similar banding pattern while roots and pollens recorded different pattern in both esterase and GOT isozymes. On the basis of clarity and resolution of bands, the leaf tissue was analysed as the ideal tissue for isozyme analysis.

000305   Deshpande N P;Dheva N G;Potdukhe N R;Parmar J N;Wadodkar M B (Agricultural Botany Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra) : Combining ability study for yield and morphological traits in interspecific crosses between G. hirsutum L. and G. barbadense L.. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 158-62.

Combining ability study was conducted using 25 interspecific crosses between five G.hirsutum lines and five G. barbadense testers. The analysis of variance for combining ability revealed significant differences among the genotypes. Similarly, L x T effects also showed significant differences for all morphological traits except boll weight. Considering the over all gca effects of the parents lines viz., GAK-32, G-67, HGMS etc. and testers ERB 4488 and DKH-3 were the good general combiners for the characters of no. of sympodia, no. of bolls per plant along with seed cotton yield per plant. Out of 25 interspecific crosses, three crosses recorded significant sca effects in desirable direction for plant height, five for number of sympodia per plant, nine for number of bolls per plant, six for boll weight, eight for number of seeds per boll, nine for seed cotton yield and seven for seed index. The parental combination in aforesaid crosses is either high x high gca, high x low gca, low x high gcs. Therefore, it appeared that for getting good cross combinations at least one of the parent should have good gca effect. Hybrids performing better may give an array of segregants giving scope for selection in improving the seed cotton yield and other associated characters.

3 tables, 7 ref

000304   Deshmukh L P;Pardeshi G T (Botany Dep, J.D.M.V.P's Science College, Jalgaon-425 001) : Aeromyclogical study over sunflower field at Jalgaon. Geobios 2008, 35(4), 323-4.

2 tables, 6 ref

000303   Deori C;Sarma S K;Hynniewta T M (Botanical Survey of India, , Eastern Circle, Shillong-793 003) : Dendrobium herbaceum Lindl. (Orchidaceae) a new record from North East India. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 29-30.

Dendrobium herbaceum Lindl. is reported for the first time in North East India from Mizoram.

1 illus, 2 ref

000302   Dakshayani Malkapur M;Vidyasagar G M (Postgraduate Studies and Research in Botany Dep, Gulbarga Univ, Gulbarga-585 106, Email: gmvidyasagar@rediffmail.com) : Screening of traditionally used medicinal plant species against intestinal pathogens. Bioscan 2009, 4(1), 121-5.

The antibacterial activity of crude methanot and aqueous extracts of 9 traditionally used medicinal plants was tested against seven gram -ve intestinal pathogens viz., Vibrio cholerae, Salmonella paratyphi B, Sbigella dysentriaeType1, Klebsiella pneumonia, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aureginosa and Proteus vulgaris. Among the plants tested, seven showed antibacterial activity. The most active antibacterial activity was found in Carallum adscendens and Gymnema sylvesfre. The antibacterial activity of methanol extract was found significant at 5% (p<0.05) level in all plants.

2 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

000301   Chauhan N S;Bhardwaj C;Chauhan R;Dutt B (Forest Products Dep, Dr. Y. S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Seed germination of Nardostachys grandiflora (D.Don) DC. under laboratory conditions. Envir Ecol 2008, 26(4B), 2008-10.

Germination study of Nardostachys grandiflora under laboratory conditions indicated that most of the parameters perform best in the soil + FYM (1 : I) media with highest germination, least number of days for the start of germination and for complete germination. Mean daily germination energy index (GEI) were also recorded to be highest for this media. Thus, soil + FYM (1:1) medium is best suited for the seed germination of Nardostachys grandiflora.

1 table, 7 ref

000300   Chaturvedi S K (Botany Dep, Nagaland Univ, Lumami, Mokokchung-798 601) : Anthecological studies of Paphiopedilum insigne (Wall. Ex Lindl.) Pfitz. (Orchidaceae) in Mokokchung district, Nagaland. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 55-8.

Lady's slipper or Venus slipper orchids are known for their peculiar floral morphology in having a pouch like structure called "synsepalum", a shield which is modified staminode, two anthers laterally attached to the column and a tongue like stigma present below the shield. The true pollinarium is absent. The pollen grains are found engulfed into the elastoviscin and are enclosed inside the anther lobes. Flies of genus Syrphus, commonly known as "hower fly" belonging to family Syrphidae, are attracted towards the synsepalum due to an urine like odour released by the multi-septet hairs present in side the synsepalum. Anthecological studies revealed that the flies, while probing for their forage, which is absent, and thereafter for the exit from the synsepalum get the flower pollinated. The dorsal surface of the thorax and abdomen of these visitors / pollinators helps in the transfer of pollen grains on the stigma. Thus, the mode of pollination in Paphiopedilum insigne (Wall. ex. Lindl.) Pfitz. has been termed as "Nototribic". Further, since, the flowers of P. insigne display a deceitful attraction for the visitors, they have been categorized as "Sapromyophilous blossom".

2 illus, 8 ref

000299   Chak I;Agarwal R K (Botany Dep, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh) : Medicinal plants used in the treatment of various skin ailments in Pulwama district of Kashmir, India. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 305-7.

^ssc5 ref

000298   Bondya S L;Sahu H B;Sharma H P;Jyoti Kumar; Srivastava A K;Choudhary A K (Post Graduate Dep of Botany, Ranchi Univ, Ranchi, Jharkhand) : Indigenous medicinal plants used in animal therapy by the tribes of Ranchi, India. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 270-2.

Deals with the documentation of 22 plant species used as ethno-veterinary medicine for the treatment of various ailments prevailing in the domestic animals by the ethnic-people, both tribes and the non-tribes in Ranchi district of Jharkhand. During the ethno-botanical field survey in different blocks of Ranchi district, some plants used as veterinary- medicines by indigenous people was recorded. The indigenous folk populaces are well acquainted with these plants and are in practice to use them in the treatment of various diseases of their domestic animals. The therapeutic informations, method of drug preparation, application, doses, duration and other related informations were recorded through interview conducted with tribal herbal medicine practitioners (Horopaths), pahans, kotwars and other knowledgeable persons of the locality.

8 ref

000297   Bhattacharjee A;Chowdhery H J (NO, Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Odontochilus clarkei Hook. F. - a new distributional record for Sikkim. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 59-61.

Odontochi/us clarkei Hook.f., a new distributional record for the State of Sikkim is being reported.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

000296   Battacharjee B;Dutta B K;Tandon P (Ecology & Environmental Science Dep, Assam Univ, Silchar-788 011) : Genus Dendrobium SW. in Southern Assam (Barak Valley), Cachar. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 39-44.

Reports 16 species of Dendrobium Sw. from the Barak Valley (Assam), and provides information on their distribution range, tree host specificity, flowering period, and biological status in the valley.

1 illus, 7 ref

000295   Basumatary N;Bora R K;Sarma C M (Botany Dep, B.N. College, Dhubri, Assam-783 324) : Diversity and ecology of orchids in Kokrajhar district (Assam). J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 21-8.

Extensive field surveys during 1999-2007, reveal the occurrence of 70 species of orchids under 32 genera in Kokrajhar district (Assam). Majority of the species are epiphytic in habit and they are better represented along the peripheral zones of the forest than in their core zones. Dendrobium with 14 species is the largest genus in the district and is followed by Eria with six species; and Acampe, Aerides, Bulbophyllum and Oberonia with 4 species each. Seven genera are represented by two species each, and the remaining 20 genera by a single species each. Chirang Reserve Forest is the richest orchid habitat in the the district; it supports all the presently collected species. Dendrobium aphyllum (Roxb.) C.E.C. Fischer and Papilionanthe teres (Roxb.) Schltr. are identified as the pioneer species in the epiphytic orchid community dynamics, whereas Dendrobium moschatum (Buch-Ham) Sw. and Flickingeria fugax (Reichb. f.) Seidenf. form the dominant climax vegetation in the said community dynamics in the tropical deciduous forests. Cymbidium aloifolium (L.) Sw. is identified as an indicator species for degraded habitat for epiphytic orchids; it exhibits pseudo dominance when natural habitat is completely lost.

1 table, 32 ref

000294   Balakrishnan B R;Sangameswaran B;Shantha M; Bhaskar V H (Pharmacognosy Dep, Vinayaka Mission's College of Pharmacy, Vinayaka Missions Univ, Kondappanaickan Patty, Salem, Tamil Nadu) : Anti-ulcerogenic effects of aqueonus extract of leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa Linn.. Int J Pl Sci 2008, 3(1), 2002-4.

Anti-ulcerogenic effect of leaves ofBauhinia tomentosa Linn, was examined in gastric ulcer models induced by aspirin and pylorus-ligated. Bauhinia tomentosa at the doses of 100 and 200 mg/kg (35.78 and 58.30 %, P<.01) and (28.82 and 48.03 %, P<.01) and sucralfate at a dose of 250mg/kg (78.43 and 69.86%, P<.001) were given orally for 5 days, respectively. Leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa produced significant anti-ulcer activity in all the experimental gastric ulcer models. Thus, ulcer protective effect of leaves of Bauhinia tomentosa may be due to its effect on mucosal defensive factors like enhanced mucin secretion, mucosal glycoprotein and decreased cell shedding rather than on offensive factors such as acid and pepsin. The present investigation established pharmacological evidence to support the folklore claim as an anti-ulcer.

2 tables, 10 ref

000293   Ammajamma R;Hegde Y R;Lingaraju S;Sreedevi S C;Hegde L (Plant Pathology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: hegdelax@gmail.com) : Biological management of Rhizoctonia bataticola infecting Coleus forskohlii.. Biomed 2009, 4(1), 28-32.

Coleus farskohlii (Wild) Briq. (Lamiaceae) is a plant of Indian origin possessing tuberous roots contain 0.1 to 0.5% forskolin which is a diterpenoid having hypotensive and cardioactive properties. Wilt is an important disease and is a major constraint in Coleus cultivation. Evaluation of the biocontrol agents indicated that maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of Rhizoctonia bataticola (76.63%) was noticed in Trichoderma harzianum (Dharwad isolate). Among botanicals tested eupatorium was highly effective at 10 per cent (81%) followed by garlic and neem leaf extract (50 & 16.67 % respectively).

2 tables, 5 ref

000292   Alshahrani T S;Hicks R R;Verlinden S;Siedel G E (Plant Production Dep, College of Food and Agriculture Science, King Saud Univ, Saudi Arabia, P.O. Box 2460, Email: thobayet@yahoo.com) : Effects of leaf extracts of Zizyphus spina-christi and Prosopis juliflora on each others seedlings roots. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(1), 111-18.

Studied the allelopathic interference between the Zizyphus spina-christi and Prosopis juliflora. Dried leaves from both species were milled to prepare leaf extracts of 0, 5, 20, 40, 60 and 100 g/1 concentrations. The leaf extracts of P. juliflom and Z. spina-christi were used to irrigate seedlings of each other. Zizyplius spina-christi leaf extract decreased the root parameters (total root length, root surface area, number of tips and root volume) of P. juliflom and the decrease was concentration dependent. However, leaf extract of P. juliflora stimulated the parameters of Z. spina-christi roots. The root length, root surface area and number of tips increased with increasing concentration, except at 100 g/l concentration. The study revealed that Z. xpina-christi leaf extract was inhibitory to the growth of another plant species, it was reported first time.

5 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

000291   Agtap S D;Deokule S S (Botany Dep, Pune Univ, Ganeshkhind Road, Pune-411 007) : Comparative study in L-dopa in some species of Mucuna adans. from Maharashtra state. Geobios 2008, 35(4), 321-2.

^ssc1 table, 5 ref

000290   Agrawala D K;Chowdhery H J (Botanical Survey of India, , Northern Circle, 192-Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-248 195) : Eria bipunctata Lindl. (Orchidaceae) - first report of its occurrence in Sikkim and North-West Himalaya. J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 69-71.

Eria bipunctata Lindl. (Orchidaceae) being reported for the first time from Sikkim and North-West Himalaya, is described and illustrated here.

1 illus, 10 ref

000289   Agrawala D K;Chowdhery H J (Botanical Survey of India, , Northern Circle, 192 - Kaulagarh Road, Dehradun-248 195) : Taxonomy and occurrence of Nephelaphyllum sikkimensis (Hook. F) karthik. (Orchidaceae). J Orchid Soc India 2008, 22(1-2), 1-4.

The Genus Nephelaphyllum Bl. is represented by 3 species [N. cordifolium (Lindl.) Bl., N. nudum Hook. f. and N. sikkimensis (Hook.f.) Karthik.] in India, distributed mostly in Eastern Himalaya and North Eastern India. Of these, N. sikkimensis is the most attractive due to its beautifully coloured leaves. The mottled leaves show close resemblance with the jewel Orchid group and are often included in this category by horticulturists. Information so far available regarding its occurrence, distribution, nomenclatural status and morphology are either ambiguous or insufficient to understand. The present study based on live collections and herbarium materials is aimed at providing more information on this lesser known species of rare orchids.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

023833   Wangchuk P;Samten;Ugyen;Thinley J;Afaq S H (Pharmaceytical and Research Unit, Institute of Traditional Medicine Services, Ministry of Health, Thimphu (Bhutan), Email: phurpaw@yahoo.com) : High altitude plants used in bhutanese traditional medicine (gSo-ba-rig-pa). Ethnobotany 2008, 20(1-2), 54-64.

Out of 7000 species of vascular plants 600 species are identified to be of medicinal value. Currently, 208 of these medicinal plants are constantly used for day to day formulations of Bhutanese traditional medicine, known as gSo-ba-rig-pa. Out of them 125 are high altitude plants. This paper presents the identification and description of the high altitude medicinal plants inhabiting Lingzhi, Bumthang and Dagala. The field work including spot identification, photographing and herbarium specimen collections was carried out in May-September for two consecutive years during 2005-2007 involving traditional physicians (Drungtshos), traditional pharmacists (sMen-pas), research assistants, and a taxonomist. In total 100 medicinal plants are identified and recorded here along with their local gSo-ba-rig-pa name and uses.

1 table, 25 ref

023832   Vidyavati;Aruna M (NO, , H. N.- 1-8-388, Balsamudram Quarters, Hanemkund-506 001) : Processing of biological material for electron microscopy with special reference to desmids (Conjugales, chlorophyceae). Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 7-8.

Desmids belonging to Conjugales (Desmidiaceae) of class Chlorophyceae are always associated with mucilage. Various methods were tried to remove this mucilage before processing the material for electron microscopical studies. Various species of Desmids are studied for their ornamentation which helps in their taxonomic identification.

1 table, 6 ref

023831   Upadhye A S;Rajopadhye A A;Chaturvedi S D (Plant Sciences Div, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004, Email: asupadhye@hotmail.com) : Botanical identity of plant materials used in Hindu ceremonies from western Maharashtra. Ethnobotany 2008, 20(1-2), 91-6.

In Hindu communities, many plant species are used in traditional ceremonies and to observe rites. From birth to death many occasions like naming ceremony, sacred thread ceremony, marriages etc. are celebrated. Special 'Pujas' i.e. worship have been observed to celebrate and share progress and happiness. After death also condolence is observed in traditional way by offerings to rest soul in peace. There are shops where these materials are readily available and sold. The priest conducting the ceremonies has been interviewed. The samples were purchased from the local market. The samples were identified botanically. The vouchers have been deposited in AHMA. Botanical identity of 20 taxa, their market name, English name and associated ceremony / ceremonies have been documented.

1 table, 14 ref

023830   Upadhyay D;Bera S (Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 019, Email: berasubir@yahoo.co.in) : Pollen analysis of natural honey from Puri district, Orissa, India. J Bot Soc Bengal 2008, 62(1), 13-17.

Pollen analysis of six squeezed honey samples collected during the period of January-February, 2006 from different places of Pure district in coastal Orissa, reveals the bee-plant diversity of the area during winter months. Among the six honey samples four are found to be unifloral and the rest multifloral. Altogether, twenty three pollen taxa have been recorded from the honey samples of which Borassus, Syzygium, Madhuca and Zizyphus are found predominant. This is the first report of pollen analysis of honey trom Orissa, India.

17 ref

023829   Tripathy N K;Behera N (School of Life Sciences, Sambalpur Univ, Sambalpur-768 019) : Traditional methods of crop protection used in Bolangir district of Orissa. Ethnobotany 2008, 20(1-2), 147-9.

Nine plant species belonging to different families, used for different crop protection processes in Bolangir district of Orissa, are reported. Specific uses of Shorea robusta, Haldina cordifolia, Albizia lebbeck, Cleistanthus collinus and Perilla ocimoides for crop protection are reported. Special attention is drawn to the interesting use of cow dung, skull bones of dead cows and a seed sowing process 'Khardi' for further research and development in the subject of plant protection.

3 ref

023828   Swaminathan M S (NO, UNESCO 3rd Cross Street, Chennai-600 113, Email: swami@mssrf.res.in) : Genetic engineering and food security : ecological and livelihood issues. Mendel int J 2008, 25(1-4), 1-4.

5 ref

023827   Sudahnshu Kumar;Goel A K (Botany Dep, P.P.K. College, Bundu, Ranchi, Jharkhand) : Purview of odoriferous plants found around Itchagarh hills in Ormanjhi block of Jharkhand. Ethnobotany 2008, 20(1-2), 135-7.

Itchagarh hill is the highest mountain in Ormanghi block of Jharkhand state. This foothill harbours a number of villages inhabited by several ethnic groups. Some of the plant species or their parts found in this area bear a distinct smell. For example, fruit of 'Dhela' (Alangium salvifolium) reminds one of fish smell, while the plant of 'Kado sag' (Limnophila rugosa) is redolent of 'Fennel'. The present study documents 12 such plant species bearing peculiar smells and also lists information about their medicinal and other ethnobotanical uses.

7 ref

023826   Sneh Lata;Maurya A K;Jain S K (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Rishikesh, Dehradun-249 201, Email: lata_sneh@yahoo.com) : Overview of ethnobotanical studies on Uttarakhand state in north India. Ethnobotany 2008, 20(1-2), 25-40.

Uttarakhand state is largely mountainous. Provides a brief conspectus of ethnobotanical work done in this state in the last about 50 years. Information is provided on ethnobotanical use-wise, district-wise and tribe-wise publications. As expected, largest numbers of papers deal with ethnomedicine. Out of about 40 papers published on specific single tribes, the Bnotiya tribe has received maximum attention. Major gaps in work are indicated. A bibliography of 248 references is appended.

3 illus, 248 ref

023825   Singhal V K;Puneet Kumar (Botany Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: vksinghal153@gmail.com) : Impact of cytomixis on meiosis, pollen viability and pollen size in wild populations of Himalayan poppy (Meconopsis aculeata royle). J Biosci, Bangalore 2008, 33(3), 371-80.

Reports the occurrence of cytomixis in wild populations of Himalayan poppy (Meconopsis aculeata Royle), which is considered to be an important and threatened medicinal plant growing in the high hills of the Himalayas. The impact of cytomixis on meiotic behaviour, reduced pollen viability and heterogeneous-sized pollen grains was also studied. Cytological studies in the seven wild populations from the high hills of Himachal Pradesh revealed that all the Himalayan populations exist uniformly at the tetraploid level (2n=56) on x=14. The phenomenon of chromatin transfer among the proximate pollen mother cells (PMCs) in six populations caused various meiotic abnormalities. Chromatin transfer also resulted in the formation of coenocytes, aneuploid, polyploid and anucleated PMCs. Among individuals that showed chromatin transfer, chromosome stickiness and interbivalent connections were frequently observed in some PMCs. The phenomenon of cytomixis in the species seems to be directly under genetic control; it affects the meiotic course considerably and results in reduced pollen viability.

27 illus, 2 tables, 73 ref

023824   Singh Y P;Rama Kant;Tandon R;Dwivedi V K; Singh R;Halder N C;Tiwari G L (Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Distribution pattern of nostocacean taxa of Allahabad and adjoining areas. Natn J Life Sci 2008, 5(1), 43-7.

Altogether 2875 algal samples were collected from Allahabad and adjoining areas. A total of 1033 times representation of blue green algal samples were recorded from different habitats. Among surveyed localities Aulosira, Anabaena and Nostoc were found to be widely distributed.

4 tables, 18 ref