016410   Amaduddin;Phukan S;Borthakur S K (NO, , Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Circle, Shillong-793 003) : Notes on Begonia sect. platycentrum for India and new record of Begonia xanthina Hook from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(3), 613-17.

Begonia xanthina Hook., a less known and rarely collected species, reported so Car from Sikkim Himalayas, Bhutan and China is reported from the North-Eastern States of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam for the first time. Detailed taxonomic description along with illustrations and distinction with the allied species Begonia rex Putzeys are provided.

1 illus, 14 ref

016409   Ali S J;Khan Z H;Beg M J (Botany Dep, Shibli National College (V.B.S. Purvanchal Univ), Azamgarh) : Species diversity and habitat relationships in Acanthaceae of eastern Uttar Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(3), 724-33.

During this study on Acanthaceae, 42 species (belonging to 24 genera) were recorded from the area. Valid scientific names of these species have been given with important synonyms along with notes on distribution and habitats. Some species are widely distributed due to their high degree of tolerance limits against physical or biological environment, e.g. Andrographis paniculata, Rungia pectinata, Justicia adhatoda etc, while others, with low tolerance limits were found confined to special habitats, e.g. Hygrophila schulli, Hemigra-phis hirta, Lepidagathis incurva (swampy places, along streams and canals), Elytraria acaulis, Indoneesiella echioides (crevices of old walls), Dicliptera verticilata, Dipteracanth-us prostratus (fruit orchards) and Rostellularia quinqueangularis, R. diffusa, Rungia repens (rice fields).

20 ref

016408   Aberkane M C;Dibi A;Haba H;Benkhaled M; Benkouider A;Mokhtari M;Mosset P;Pale P (Chemistry Dep, Faculty of Sciences, Universitu of Batna, Batna 05000, Algeria, Email: aberkanemc@yahoo.fr) : Guaianolide and pseudoguaianolide from Pulicaria laciniata. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(6), 4954-6.

The first study of the aerial parts of Pulicaria laciniata afforded one guaianolide, one pseudoguaianolide and a β-sitosterol. The structures of the three compounds were elucidated by spectroscopic techniques including 2D NMR experiments.

^ssc9 ref

015375   Yongabi K A;Agbo E B;Tahir F (FMEnv/ZERI Centre, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, PMB 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria, Email: yongabika@yahoo.com) : Assessment of the antimicrobial and phytochemical properties of the stem bark extract of Disthemonantus bentamianus L. (African satin wood) on microoganisms isolated from semen. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 17-23.

Assessment of the efficacy of the stem bark extracts of Disthemonantus bentamianus L., a component of a traditional preparation for infertility galenical, was carried out on microorganisms isolated from infected semen using the agar well diffusion method. The solvent polarity technique involving petroleum ether, Toluene, acetone, methanol and water was employed to extract the plant materials. The extracts were tested against seven organisms, viz. Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella aerogenes, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterobacter aerogenes, Proteus mirabilis and Candida albicans. Only the acetone and methanol fractions of the extract showed appreciable inhibition on all the seven test microorganisms, with the acetone fractions exhibiting a higher inhibition on Staphylococcus aureus. No significant difference (P0.05) was observed between the activities of the methanol and acetone fractions using an independent T-test, while an F-test analysis revealed a significant difference (P0.05) in activities of the fractions between the various test microorganisms. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of the acetone fraction on all the test organisms ranged from 100-200 mg/ml except for Enterobacter aerogenes and Proteus mirabilis with 200-300 mg/ml. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the active fractions tested positive for alkaloids. The study justifies the use of this plant for treatment of most microbial infections.

17 ref

015374   Yadav M;Chaudhary R;Singh D B (Horticulture Dep, Allahabad Agricultural Institute - Deemed University, Allahabad-211 007) : Combining ability in bittergourd. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(2), 163-6.

Combining ability was estimated with six lines and four testers in bitter gourd for seventeen traits. Gy-I (L₆) was found good general combiner for number of fruits per vine, number of fruit per plot, internodal length, days to first appearance of male flower and vine length. For yield per vine, yield per plot, yield/ha, fruit width and days to first appearance of female flower, MC-84 (L₁) was best general combiner. 5-17 (L₂) for fruit length, fruit weight and JMC-21 (L₃) for number of nodes, first effective node, number of primary branches per vine were best general combiners. The crosses MC-84 x JMC-22 (L₁ x T₂) for yield per plot, yield (q/ha) and MC-84 x VRBT-6-9 (L₁ x T₁) for yield per plot, yield per vine, fruit width, days to first appearance of female flower, number of primary branches per vine exhibited significant specific combining ability ( sca).

3 tables, 9 ref

015373   Wufem B M;Adamu H M;Cham Y A;Kela S L (Industrial Chemistry Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, PMB 0248 Bauchi, Nigeria) : Antivenin potential of the crude extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. (Balanitacea). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 241-5.

Stem bark of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.) Del. was sequentially extracted with hexane toluene, chloroform, acetone and methanol. The extracts were administered intramuscularly into albino rats which had been previously I injected with 0.25 ml of 0.194 mg/ml of saw-scale viper venom (Echis carinatus). The acetone and methanol extracts were active against the venom when 1.0 ml and 0.75 ml were injected respectively. Phytochemical screening of the extracts showed the presence of saponins, tannins and volatile oils in the plant. The preliminary studies indicate that acetone and methanol extracts of Balanites aegyptiaca (L.). Del. have potentials of providing a readily available and cheaper source of antivenins against viper venom.

4 tables, 11 ref

015372   Viraj Man;Dutt B (Forest Products Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni-173 230) : Ethnobotanical studies in Sangla valley, district Kinnanur in Himachal Himalayas. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 58-64.

Ethnobotanical study has been carried out in the Sangla valley of tribal district Kinnaur in Himachal Pradesh. The information on traditional practices of 46 species of medicinal and aromatic plants belonging to 40 genera from 28 families were collected. The plants of ethnobotanical importance are arranged alphabetically and highlighted with their botanical name, family, Hindi name, local names, parts used and their ethnobotanical uses.

15 ref

015371   Vijaya Bhasker Reddy A;Ramachandra Reddy P (Botany Dep, P.G. College of Science, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004) : Host tree preferences for honey comb formation of three bee species in Khammam district, Andhra Pradesh. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 29-30.

Khammam district is one of the rich forest areas of the Andhra Pradesh. Even though the forest area has rich diversity of tree species, bees prefer only a few of the tree species to build the combs, and this host specificity is determined by the behaviour of honeybee species, branching pattern of preferred bee trees and the tendency of tree species to form crevices in tree trunks.

1 ref

015370   Vijay Bhasker Reddy A;Ramachandra Reddy P (Botany Dep, P.G. College of Science, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004) : Bee forage plant preferences of Apis bee species in Khammam district, Andhra Pradesh. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 23-8.

Melissopalynological analysis of 52 squeezed honeys of Apis dorsata, Apis florea, and Apis cerana from four revenue divisions of Khammam District, Andhra Pradesh is presented. Of the 52 honey samples collected comprise 24 of Apis dorsata, 16 of Apis florea and 12 of Apis cerana. Bees forage plant preferences are more extensive for Apis dorsata as compared to those of Apis fIorea and Apis cerana.

1 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

015369   Verma S;Chauhan N S (Forest Products Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni-Solan-173 230) : Ethnobotany of some healing plants of Kunihar forest division, district Solan (Himachal Pradesh, India). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 315-26.

Study was undertaken for making preliminary survey of plant wealth of Kunihar forest division, district Solan of Himachal Pradesh. An analysis of data reveals the uses of 98 species belonging to 47 families for health care among the people of the area.

4 ref

015368   Verma A;Chaurasia O P;Ballabh B;Raut B (NO, Field Research Lab, Leh-Ladakh) : Potential fodder species of Ladakh Himalaya. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 203-9.

Plants play an important role in sustaining and development of animal husbandry. The heavy population of animals (about ten times more in comparison to human beings) has to survive and sustain on wild fodder plants. In Ladakh, alfalfa is only crop cultivated on limited scales, but the barren mountains have potential to grow a number of wild fodder species mainly during summers every year. An effort has been made to study the potential fodder yielding plants of Ladakh Himalaya which are either being grazed or harvested for domestic uses at the time of maturity. Deals with 22 most important fodder plants which are being commonly used by the local people. Besides this, nutritional values have also been presented for fodder plants.

1 table, 5 ref

015367   Unni B G;Borah A;Wann S B;Singh H R;Basabrani Devi;Bhattacharjee M (Biotechnology Div, North East Institute of Science and Technology, Jorhat-785 006, Email: bgunni@yahoo.com) : Phytochemical and antibacterial study of traditional medicinal plants of north east India on Escherichia coli. Asian J expl Sci 2009, 23(1), 103-8.

The study was conducted on various biochemical parameters of some traditional medicinal plants of North East India VIZ., Leucas aspera, Murraya koengigii, Oxalis corniculata, Altemanthera sessilis, Pagostemon benghalensis, Hydrocotyl rotendifolia, Cyathula prostrata, Piper peepuloides, Potentilla mooniana. It was observed that L. lanata, M. koengigi, O. comiculata, A. sessilis, P. peepuloides and P. mooniana shows antibacterial activity against E. coli. The nutritive values of these plants varied between 231.59 to 34.59 Call 100 gm and the tannin content ranged from 3.8% and 0.62%. The GC analysis of the fatty acid methyl esters showed the presence of both saturated and unsaturated fatty acid consisting of Palmitic acid, a mixture of oleic, linoleic, linolenic acids and stearic acid in various quantities from 0.06 to 6.33% gm dry leaf powder.

1 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

015366   Udayan P S;Tushar K V;George S;Balachandran I (NO, Centre for Medical Plants Research (ICMR), Arya Vaidya Shala, Kottakkal, Kerala) : Few rare, endemic and red listed plants from the western ghats of Mundanthurai forest, Tirunelveli district, Tamilnadu, India. Indian For 2008, 134(1), 88-96.

Exploratory survey of flora was conducted in Thulukkamottai, Mundanthurai Reserve Forest, Tirunelveli District (Tamil Nadu). The survey resulted in the documentation of 11 rare, endemic and red listed plants.

27 ref

015365   Uba A;Ibrahim K;Agbo E B;Makinde A A (Biological Sciences Programme (Microbiology Unit), Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, P.M.B. 0248, Bauchi, Nigeria, Email: ubaauwalu2000@yahoo.co.uk) : Mixture of alkaloids, flavonoids and terpenes/sterols with antimicobacterial activity from methanol extract of Artemisia annua L. (compositae) (whole plant). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 1-7.

1 table, 25 ref

015364   Tiwari K K;Dube B K;Chatterjee C;Sinha P (Botany Dep, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007) : Phytotoxic effects of high chromium on oxidative stress and metabolic changes in citrullus. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(2), 171-5.

Citrullus (Citrullus vulgaris cv Ludhiana) was grown in refined sand at ambient temperature in a glasshouse. Plants were maintained in complete nutrient solution for 24 days and on 25^th day chromium as dichromate was added at 0.05, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30 and 0.40 mM. Excess Cr reduced plant height, leaf area with loss of turgor and chlorosis of middle leaves. Later, chlorosis became severe and changed to necrosis in patches. Chromium accumulation reduced the biosynthesis of chlorophylls, catalase, protein, non-protein nitrogen, starch and increased the concentration of sugars, phenols, protein nitrogen, Hill reaction activity and activity of peroxidase and increased the activity of acid phosphatase. The translocation of iron, and chromium in different parts of citrullus were affected most significantly by excess chromium. The concentration of Cr, its uptake and translocation from roots to tops increased with excess Cr, whereas iron concentration increased in roots and decreased in stem and leaves of citrullus.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

015363   Sushilkumar;Ray P (National Research Centre for Weed Science, , Maharajpur, Adhartal, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh-482 004, Email: dr.sushilkumar@rediffmail.com) : Biology of Spodoptera litura Fabricius (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on some of its major weed hosts. Entomon 2007, 32(4), 287-90.

Development of Spodoptera litura on weed hosts was studied. Out of 24 weed plants tested, high consumption of leaves was recorded on eight species. Further studies were conducted on the development of 5. litura on these highly preferred weeds, namely Alternanthera philoxeroides Mart., Euphorbia hirta L., Eichhornia crassipes Mart., Trianthema portulacastrum, Parthenium hysterophorus L., Cichorium intybus L., Rumex obtusifolius L. and Ipomoea fistulosa Mart. There was significant difference in the developmental of the insect on different host plants. Among all the weeds, T. portulacastrum was found to be the most suitable food plant. Fast development of S. litura on many weed hosts indicates the high potential of the insect as a pest in the agrosystem.

1 table, 10 ref

015362   Sur P R;Saren A M;Halder A C (Central Botanical Lab, Botanical Survey of India, P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Medicinal uses of some terrestrial exotic weeds. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 133-6.

Deals with 25 terrestrial exotic angiospermic weeds whcih have some medicinal values. The vernacular name, country of origin, distribution in India and important medicinal uses are discussed.

5 ref

015361   Sur P R;Saren A M;Halder A C (Central Botanical Lab, Botanical Survey of Inida, P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Ethnomedicinal plants used as antidiabetic. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 79-82.

Deals with 24 ethnobotanical plants, which are used by villagers and tribal people of different regions of India as antidiabetic. The plant species are arranged in alphabetical order followed by vernacular names, distribution and their uses.

7 ref

015360   Sunil N;Subbi Reddy G;Sivaraj N;Sridhar S (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resorces, Regional Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Collection and conservation of tamarind Tamarindus indica L - a multipurpose tree for livelihood of rural poor. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 24-9.

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is an important tree in the rural areas not only for economic and environmental reasons but also for safeguarding the livelihood systems of the rural poor. The exploitation of the tamarind tree with its myriad uses has been limited mainly due to the non-availability of the elite high yielding genotypes for mass propagation. In this regard, a collaborative effort was made to collect the Tamarind diversity from parts of Andhra Pradesh by Regional Station of National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) with Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU). The survey was undertaken in parts of East Godavari and Visakhapatnam districts of Andhra Pradesh to identify trees exhibiting good variability in yield, bearing habit, size of the fruit, pulp content and taste etc. for collection and conservation of representative diversity. Some areas in East Godavari, viz. Kakavada, are very famous for producing the quality Tamarind. In interior villages like Lankapakala and Velagapalli in East Godavari and Darakonda in Vishakhapatnam, large Tamarind population was observed which formed the base of the livelihood of rural population. The mission resulted in the collection of 44 Tamarind germplasm accessions. The collected scion material of Tamarind germplasm had been grafted on to the rootstocks by wedge grafting and the seed material has been deposited in the NGB for maintenance, evaluation, conservation and utilization of the germplasm.

1 tables, 5 ref

015359   Sonawane Yuvraj D (Botany Dep, M.S.G. College, Malegaon Camp, Nasik-423 105) : Survey of some medicinal plants of Nasik district, Maharashtra, India. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 31-4.

In India, about 7500 plants are recognised with medicinal value that are being used by various traditional systems of medicines such as Ayurvedic, Homeo, Siddha, Folke, Tibetan, Modem and Unani. The use of plants as medical drug products was mentioned in `Rig Veda' which were written between 4000 and 1600 B.C. From long ago medicine men vaidya, tribal priests, herb doctors or ayurvedic vaids, used various plant parts in preparation of crude drugs. The investigation gives an account of different uses of plants from Nasik District. 32 medicinal plants belonging to 28 genera and 21 families are dealt herewith which are used by tribals and villagers for cure of different diseases. The aim the investigation is to enumerate the medicinal plants used by rural people and their medicinal uses. It also throws light on their botanical name/s, local name/s and their use/s.

12 ref

015358   Sivaraj N;Pandravada S R;Naidu M V;Srinivasa Reddy G;Sunil N;Kamala V;Abraham B;Varaprasad K S (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Regional Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030) : Mesta diversity: a potential source to improve rural economy in north coastal Andhra Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 137-40.

Mesta is the bast fibre of commercial importance obtained from Hibiscus cannabinus L. and H. sabdariffa L., belonging to the family Malvaceae. These two species having wide adaptability to poor soils, are drought tolerant and come up luxuriantly even under rainfed conditions. Andhra Pradesh stands first in both the area and production with 0.8 lakh hectares and 6.8 lakh bales respectively. It is traditionally grown in the Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts of north coastal Andhra Pradesh for fibre, and rich endemic genetic diversity is reported. Mesta being a renewable natural fibre, which is safe, non-toxic, biodegradable and environment friendly, has wide applications, acceptance and export potential. Culinary varieties are used for the preparation of curry, pickle and chutneys. Several alternate uses such as for paper-making, potting mix and food colourant etc are also reported. Keeping in view the importance of this crop, concerted efforts have been made by NBPGR Regional Station to collect and conserve the Mesta germplasm. A total of 560 Mesta germplasm accessions of fibre and culinary types belonging to both the species were collected from the State. Good diversity was observed for leaf lamina, vein and petiole colour, leaf length and width, stem pubescence, stem (colour, diameter), branching habit, flower colour, capsule pubescence, seed (colour, shape, size and weight) and yield (900-1800 Kg/ha) etc. Erra gogu, Gongura, Kasi janumu, Katti naara, Koora gogu, Manchi gogu, Puntikura, Tella gogu etc., are some of the landraces collected. One collection of high yielding H. sabdariffa L., designated as UJWALA, is in the pre release stage by Acharya NG Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU). Describes the status of diversity in Mesta, strategies for the future research and socio-economic aspects of Mesta cultivation in relation to livelihood of people.

4 ref

015357   Singh S K;Uniyal V P (NO, Wildlife Institute of India, Dehra Dun-248 001) : Some important West Himalayan high altitude medicinal plants. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 216-22.

Presents a brief account of some medicinal plants of Western Himalaya. Uncontrolled exploitation, other biotic factors and physical factors have endangered many of these very important species. These plants immediately need protection since they are heavily exploited for commercial use and are under severe threat for their existence. The medicinal uses of some important species are provided.

1 table, 10 ref

015356   Singh R;Jain S C;Jain R (Medicinal Plants and Bsiotechnology Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: jainnatpro3@rediffmail.com) : Antioxidant actiity of some medicinally important arid zone plants. Asian J expl Sci 2009, 23(1), 215-21.

Arid zone of Rajasthan has its own importance and specific characteristic with respect to endemic and a large number of plants of economic importance and medicinal use. Dichloromethane and methanolic extracts of twelve arid zone plants (Aerva tomentosa Forsk., Gisekia phamaceioides L., Heliotropium marifolium Retz., Lepidagathis trinervis Nees., Mimosa hamata Willd., Mollugo nudicaulis Lam., Polycarpea corymbosa Lam., Portulaca pilosa L., Sericostoma pauciflorum Stocks. ex Wight., Trianthema decandra L., Tribulus terrestris L. and Verbesina encelioides (Cav.) Benth. & Hook. fil ex Gray), used in Indian phytotherapy for the treatment of inflammation, jaundice, urinary disorders and other kidney problems were screened in vitro for antioxidant activity by DPPH assay. All the methanolic extracts of the selected plant species exhibited appreciable activity as compared to the dichloromethane extracts, among these A. tomentosa, H. marifolium, M. nudicaulis, P. corymbosa and M. hamata exhibited higher antioxidant activity with 6.5 μg/ml RC₅₀ value.

2 tables, 19 ref

015355   Singh N P;Sankaran M;Santhosh B;Jai Prakash (ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, , Tripura Centre, Lembucherra-799 210) : From Tripura... mucuna: a wonder medicinal plant. Indian Hort 2008, 53(1), 27-8.

Mucuna pruriens (family: Leguminosae) is one of the popular medicinal plants used in more than 200 indigenous drug formulations. It is popularly-known as cowhage or cowage, velvet bean, itching bean and nescafe. It has been used for generations in India for Parkinson's disease. It is rich in crude protein (20-29%), crude lipid (6-7%), total dietary fibres (8-10%), ash (3%), carbohydrates (50-60%) and alkaloids.

015354   Singh K P;Agarwal R (Botany Dep, R.B.S. College, Agra, U.P) : Ethnomedicinal studies on cucurbits of Agra district. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 87-91.

Cucurbits are well known as a source of human nutrition and are of major economic importance. Deals with cucurbits of ethnomedicinal importance used by local people of Agra district. The study revealed the uses of 15 cucurbits as new to the existing knowledge in this field. People use various parts of the plants for curing fever, cough, cold, headache, eczema, skin burns, heart problems, nervous disorders and urinary troubles. Some cucurbits are also used as tonic for old persons.

15 ref

015353   Shiva Kameshwari M N;Muniyamma M (Biosytematics Lab, Botany Dep, Bangalore University, Jnanabharathi, Bangalore-560 056) : Cytomixis in a new cytotype of Urginea indica Kunth (Liliaceae.). J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 47-50.

New cytotype from the population of Urginea indica Kunth, with 2n = 24. Further, occurrence of cytomixis in this population is a new record for the species.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

015352   Shimpale V B;Bhagat R B;Yadav S R (Botany Dep, The New College, Kolhapur-416 012) : Extended distribution of Dipcadi saxorum Blatt. (Hycinthaceae) - a critically endangered plant taxa. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 39-42.

Extended distributional range, morphology and cytology of Dipacadi saxorum Blatt. are reported.

5 ref

015351   Shendage V M (Botany Dep, Arts, Commernce and Science College, Palus-416 310) : Genus Pagiophyllum Heer 1881 from Ommevaram, Prakasam district, Andhra Pradesh. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 35-6.

Plant fossils collected from Ommevaram in Prakasam district of Andhra Pradesh are described. Two species of Genus Pagiophyllum Heer are reported from the locality.

2 illus, 4 ref

015350   Sharma Y;Arvind Kumar;Archna Singh;Rana J C (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Regional Station, Phagli, Shimla-171 004) : Important medicinal plants and their uses in Me-gad watershed area of Lahual & Spiti. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 116-22.

Largely plant based, traditional medical systems continue to provide primary health care to more than three quarters of the world's population. Medicinal plants are locally used in treating and preventing specific ailments and diseases; people use these medicines deliberately on account of faith, the local myth, tradition and their socio-cultural milieu. Highlights some important medicinal plants and their uses either alone or in combination with other plants/part(s) to treat various diseases in Me-gad watershed area of Lahual and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

12 ref

015349   Sharma M;Sharma M (Microbiology Laboratory, Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: mukeshsharma_uniraj@yahoo.co.in) : Influence of environmental factors o the growth and sporulation of geophilic keratinophiles from soil samples of public park. Asian J expl Sci 2009, 23(1), 307-12.

2 tables, 23 ref

015348   Sharma L;Sharma K P;Khandelwal S (Botany Dep, Government P.G. College, Karauli, Rahjasthan) : Ethnobotany of some plants of Dang region, Rajasthan. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 409-16.

Dang region is distributed in three districts of Rajasthan. This region is inhabited mainly be tribals and traditional communities. Main tribal group is Meena and traditional communities are Gujjar, Mali, Kumhar, Kahaar, Mongia etc. These people are mostly settled and live on hillocks in small villages surrounded by dense forests and thereby, they have close relationship with natural resources. They use these plants for their daily requirements like food, fibre, medicine and others. About fifty plants are described which are widely used by them for various purposes.

7 ref

015347   Sharma D;Lavania A A;Sharma A (Biotechnology Dep, IIMT College of Medical Sciences, O-Pocket, Ganga Nagar, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: deepak_ibt@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro comparative screening of antibacterial and antifungal activities of some common plants and weeds extracts. Asian J expl Sci 2009, 23(1), 169-72.

The Plants and Weeds are screened out for their antibacterial and antifungal activity against some gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria's by extracting out their aqueous and methanolic extracts and screened out by analyzing their zone of inhibition. The weed Dathura stramonium shows pronounced antibacterial and antifungal activity along with Azadirachta indica, when compared with some standard antibiotics.

3 tables, 7 ref

015346   Sharma A;Sharma K C;Rakesh Kumar;Chauhan U (Entomology and Apiculture Dep, Dr. Y.S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Effect of insecticide selection pressure on the biology of the diamond back moth Plutella xylostella L. (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) in Himachal Pradesh. Entomon 2007, 32(3), 217-19.

Effect of selection pressure of endosulfan, deltamethrin and cypermethrin on the biology of the diamondback moth Plutella xylostella in the mid hills of Himachal Pradesh was studied. The biology of treated insects was compared with that of a susceptible population (without selection pressure). The treated insects had shorter developmental period as compared to the control. The size of adults, males as well as females, was also affected due to the constant exposure to the insecticides.

1 table, 4 ref

015345   Semwal D P;Pardha Saradhi P (Environmental Biology Dep, University of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: dinusem@rediffmail.com) : Ethnobotanical studies in Kedarnath Wildlife Sanctuary, Central Himalayas, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 48-57.

Ethnobotanical survey along with botanical collections was made in selected villages of the Kedarnath Wild Life Sanctuary, Central Himalayas, India. The information regarding use of plant species for food, medicine, dye, fuel and construction materials, as well as for miscellaneous uses was collected and classified systematically. A total of 86 ethnobotanically important plant species were screened from the study area, which belong to 74 genera and 54 families. Of the 48 food plants, 21 (43.7%) species provide edible fruits, 12 (25%) edible leaves, 8 (17.6%) edible flower/flower-buds, 3 (6.25%) provide all aerial parts, 1 species each (2.08%) provides edible roots, rhizome, seed and bark. Further, about 19 species have found multiple uses in the area. It is suggested that conservation measures are essentially required for sustainable use of these valuable resource.

4 tables, 19 ref

015344   Sau A;Pal D C;Verma N K (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Indian Botanic Garden, Howrah-3) : Ethnobotany of Sundarbans with special reference to tribal and rural women health care. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 232-5.

Deals with 17 angiospermic plant species used as medicinal plants by the women of the area. The botanical names, local names, families and the plant parts used as home remedies and other details e.g. ingredients, methods of preparations, doses, mode of administration etc. have been provided.

11 ref

015343   Saren A M;Halder A C;Sur P R (Central Botanical Lab, Botanical Survey of India, B. Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Observation on ethnobotany of Darjeeling district, West Bengal. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 345-52.

Deals with 71 species of vascular plants belonging to 69 genera used traditionally by the tribals of Darjeeling district of West Bengal for curing various ailments of man and cattle.

7 ref

015342   Saren A M;Halder A C;Sur P R (Central Botanical Lab, Botanical Survey of India, P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Ethnobotanical study of Kalahandi district, Orissa. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 72-8.

Deals ethnobotanically important 52 plant species under 42 genera of Kalahandi district, Orissa, India. The knowledge and wisdom of different tribals, like Kondh, Oraon and Santhal, have been summarised. The valid scientific names, vernacular names, plant parts used and their ethno-economic uses are documented.

015341   Saravanan R;Krishti S;Gajbhiye N A;Maiti S (National Research Centre for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, , Boriavi PO, Anand-387 310, Email: sarav_nrc@yahoo.com) : Influence of light intensity on gas exchange, herbage yield ad andrographolidde content in Andrographis paniculata (Nees.). Indian J Hort 2008, 65(2), 220-5.

Medicinal herb Andrographis paniculata containing a bitter principle andrographolide is widely used in indigenous system of medicines for treatment of various ailments in south Asian countries including India. It is found to grow as an understory in its natural habitats. With a view to understand the role of shade on herbage yield, a two-year field study was conducted on sandy loam soil. The crop was grown under 25,50,70 and 100% incident photosynthetic photon flux density (PFD) by providing artificial shade nets and observations on plant height, fresh and dry weight of leaf, stem and total plant along with leaf gas exchange parameters. Significant differences were observed for all growth characters between open and shaded plants. Leaf photosynthesis increased from 11.56 to 19.70 mmol m-2s-1 as PFD increased from 25 to 100% and herbage yield increased from 226.70 to 379.45 g. Andrographolide content was not consistent under different PFD levels and highly influenced by the weather parameters. Since the total herbage and andrographolide yield as the highest under open light condition, it was concluded that A. paniculata is suitable for open cultivation.

3 illus, 15 ref

015340   Sanjay Kumar;Mathur A (Botany Dep, M.S.J. Government P.G. College, Bharatpur-321 001, Email: kumardr.sanjay@ymail.com) : Localization of metabolites and enzymes in stem galls of Terminalia arjuna. Asian J expl Sci 2009, 23(1), 207-13.

Histochemical localization of metabolites and enzymes was studied in stem gall of Terminalia arjuna (Linn.) induced by unknown Itonididae (Diptera). These studies revealed higher activity of various metabolites in gall tissue, especially near the nutritive zone. Relatively higher amount of metabolites suggested altered metabolism of the host tissue due to Pathogenesis. A functional elaboration in the cells closer to the feeding site of the cecidozoan during cecidogenesis was evident. Also, a different response of metabolites and enzymes at cellular level of the host proved advantageous to the insect toward gall formation. Most of the plants of Terminalia arjuna were found to be heavily galled during the months of March to June.

3 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

015339   Rout N C;Dhal N K;Dash P K;Biswal A K (NO, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 013, Email: ncrout@immt.res.in) : Corallodiscus Batalin (Gesneriaceae): a new generic record for Eastern Ghats, Orissa. Curr Sci 2008, 95(1), 23-4.

1 illus, 9 ref

015338   Reddy M S N;Radhakrishnaiah M;Jelani S (Botany Dep, Sardar Patel College, Secunderabad-500 025) : Phenolic profile in some peterocrops. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 164-70.

Deals with the distribution pattern of some simple phenolic acids and phenyl propanoids in some taxa of Sapotaceae, Apocynaceae, Asclepiadaceae, Convolvulaceae, Euphorbiaceae and Urticaceae, and the taxonomic significance of these chemicals in delimitation of taxa from family to specific level.

3 tables, 8 ref

015337   Ramachandran A;Soosairaj S (Centre for Climate Change, Anna University, Chennai, Tamilnadu) : Extended distribution of Ipomoea rumicifolia Choisy and Jatropha heynei Baalkar. - to the eastern Ghats of Tamilnadu. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 19-22.

Floristic exploration in the Eastern Ghats is an enduring process because this region is distinctive in many aspects. At the time of a field visit the authors collected and identified two rare and little known species, Ipomoea rumicifolia Choisy and Jatropha heynei Balakr. belonging to the family Convolvulaceae and Euphorbiaceae respectively. Description and an illustration of the same are provided.

7 ref

015336   Ramachandran A;Soosairaj S (Centre for Climate Change, Anna University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu) : Mikania micrantha Kunth - a climbing exotic weed - a new report to the flora of Tamilnadu. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 15-18.

Sri Rangam is an island formed by the river Cauvery and Kolirone, in central part of Tamilnadu, about 8 miles in length and 4 miles in breadth. It is very rich in terms of floristic composition, 470 species (Matthew, 1983). While taking a field visit in this Island, the authours have collected a climber, a member of Asteraceae family close to Mukkombu. On close observation with herbarium specimens from MH, Coimbatore, it was identified as Mkania micrantha Kunth. It is a new report to the flora of Tamilnadu. Its distribution is recorded in Peninsular India in Kerala and Andaman Nicobar Islands (MH herbarium, Coimbatore). Presents illustration, distribution and the ecology of this species.

1 illus, 19 ref

015335   Rajendran K;Baburaj S;Jothi Basu M (Botany Dep, Thiagarajar College, Madurai-625 009, Email: kuppurajendran@rediffmail.com) : Natural and cultivated dye yielding plants and their utilization by villagers in southern districts of Tamil Nadu. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 141-5.

Survey and observations were carried out in remote villages of southern districts of Tamil Nadu to identify the wild and cultivated dye yielding plants and their utilization by the local people. Deals with about 59 dye yielding plant species of 54 genera belonging to 29 families and provides information on their botanical names, vernacular names, families, plant parts producing dye, colour of the dye etc.

1 table, 2 ref

015334   Rajanna L;Vinod M;Shivamurthy G R (Botany Dep, Bangalore University, Jnana Bharathi, Bangalore-560 056) : New hosts of Cassytha filiformis L. (Lauraceae). J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 43-5.

Reports new taxa parasitized Cassytha filiformis L. These hosts belong to 46 species, 40 genera distributed in 28 families of flowering plants. The adaptability of the parasite wit the host is discussed.

6 ref

015333   Premalatha D S (Microbiology Dep, Shrimati Indira Gandhi College, Tiruchirappalli-620 002) : Antibacterial activity of some plants against Streptococcus pyogenes. J Swamy Bot Club 2008, 25(1-4), 75-8.

Antibacterial effect of eight species of herbs against the predominant pathogenic bacterium Streptococcus pyogenes was studied. The antibacterial effect was determined by well-diffusion and disc-diffusion methods. The extent of inhibition zones were compared with the standard drug inhibition spectrum (Amphicillin). The susceptibility of the bacterium against the leaf extracts were determined. Ocimum sanctum and Solanum trilobatum showed highest inhibitory effect. Leucus aspera, Eclipta alba, Achyranthes aspera, Acalypa indica and Phyllanthus niruri showed moderate effects while Cleome gynandra showed least inhibitory activity against the growth of S. pyogenes.

1 table, 21 ref

015332   Pragasam A;Kadavul K;Sivaranjini S (Plant Science Dep, K.M. Centre for P.G. Studies, Lawspet, Pondicherry-605 008) : Medicinal properties of some locally available green leafy vegetables of Pondicherry region. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 368-74.

Nutritive and medicinal properties of green leafy vegetables are high because of the presence of indispensable minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and alkaloids. They are cheap and the natural sources of growth promoting and health protecting functions. They have a special place in daily diet. They are used as alternative, antidote, antipyretic, anthelmintic, aphrodisiac, appetizer, carminative, demulcent, diuretic, expectorant, laxative, refrigerant and tonic. Their regular use prevents and cures the diseases of ear, eye, liver, lungs, nerves, skin and other vital organs. The medicinal properties of 30 species belonging to 25 genera and 21 families are discussed.

15 ref

015331   Phukan R (Botany Dep, North Lakhimpur College, North Lakhimpur-787 031) : Distribution pattern of phytoplankton in water-logged rice fields of Lakhimpur district, Assam. Indian Biol 2008, 40(1), 45-7.

Waterlogged rice fields of the district of Lakhimpur, Assam contains a wide variety of phytoplanktons. The distribution pattern of angiosperms, pteridophytes and algal flora in the rice fields of Lakhimpur district, Assam, revealed the abundance of 14 species of angiosperms, 4 species of pteridophytes and 6 species of algal flora were isolated from the water. The summer season with abundance of water in the fields contained highest population of aquatics. Ipomoea aquatica and Eichornea cressipes among the angiosperms, Azalla pinata and Salvinea cucullata among pteridophytes and the chlorophycean algae were the dominant flora in the rice fields.

1 table, 8 ref

015330   Patil S G;Honrao B K (Plant Sciences Div, Agharkar Research Institute, Puna-411 004) : Phytochemical studies in genera Tetrastigma (Miq.) Planch. and Vitis L. (Family vitacea) and their taxonomic significance. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 178-85 .

Photochemical analysis of nine species of Tetrastigma (Miq.) Planch. and 3 species of Vitis L. (Vitaceae) revealed presence of raphides and mucilaginous substances and absence of cyanogenic glycosides, quinones, naphto-quinones and aurones compounds in all species. Thirteen tests show presence or absence of chemical compounds with variable reactions and three with doubtful reactions. Presence of raphides in the species suggest the genus Tetrastigma (Miq.) Planch. to be primitive. Likewise, other observations also support the taxonomic treatment of the genus Tetrastigma (Miq.) Planch. Differential reactions can be used for the identification of these taxa. Presence of such phytochemicals have special significance in plant protection to control various diseases and pests as a natural pesticide; otherwise, in crop improvement to induce genetic resistance through resistant genotypes in cultivated grapes with modern methods of Biotechnology.

5 tables, 20 ref

015329   Patel P K (Biology Dep, P.S. Science College, Kadi) : Ethnomedicinal studies of Patan district, north Gujarat. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(Supl), 83-6.

Brief account is presented about the ethnomedicinal plants of Patan district, North Gujarat. Thirty one species which are commonly used by people are enumerated.

23 ref