012171   Hegde Y R;Chavan S S;Ammajamma R (Plant Pathology Dep, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: uasyashoda@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of seven different bioagents using eighteen plant extracts against wilt caused by Sclerotium rolfsii in Stevia rebaudiana. Biomed 2008, 3(2), 105-9.

Stevia is an important medicinal plant used as a low calorie sweetener. Wilt caused by Sclerotium rolfsii is an important disease and is a major constraint in Stevia cultivation. Seven biocontrol agents such as Trichoderma harzianum Rifai, Trichoderma harzianum (Dharwad isolate), Trichoderma koningii Oudern, Trichoderma virens Miller, Trichoderma viride, Pers. Ex.S.F.Gray, Pseudomonas f1uorescens Migula and Bacillus subtilis Cohn Emend Pras were evaluated against Sclerotium rolfsi and found that maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of S. rolfsii (76.63%) was noticed in Trichoderma harzianum (Dharwad isolate). Similarly among eighteen plant extracts namely Adhatoda vasica, Bougainvillea spectabilis L, Calotropis gigantia, Cassia fistula L., Durantha repens L., Eucalyptus globes Labill, Euphorbium odoratum, Allium sativum L Glyrecidia maculata L, Jatropa curcas, Prosopis julif1ora, Lantana camara L., Azadirachta indica Juss., Allium cepa L., Parthenium hystrophorus L., Pongamia glabra Vent., Tridax procumbens L., Ocimum, sanctum, L. Durantha repens was highly effective at 10 per cent (74.44) followed by Glyrecidia (72.22%) .

2 tables, 5 ref

012170   Dubey R M;Das P S;Choudhury R (Research & Education Circle, , Guwahati, Assam) : Investigation into macro-proliferation of some selected bamboo species of Assam. Indian For 2008, 134(3), 367-78.

A new, easy and low cost technique has been developed for production of quality planting stock of B. vulgaris var. vittata, B. balcooa, B. bambos, B. nutans, B. tulda and D. hamiltanii vegetatively through two noded culm cutting with macro-proliferation which yields planting stock with survival rate of 90-100 %. Through this simple technique from a single bamboo node 60 to 180 nos. of bamboo saplings (propagules) can be produced in a year (April to March) depending upon the species selected. The best part of the technique is that it can produce bamboo planting stock round the year without involving many technicalities.

1 table, 11 ref

012169   Dubey A;Mishra M K;Singh P K;Vyas D (Laboratory of Microbial Technology and Plant Pathology, Botany Dep, Dr. H.S. Gour Univ, Sagar-470 003, Email: dvyas64@yahoo.co.in) : Occurrence of AM fungi at varying stages of growth of rice plants. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt-1), 51-5.

Occurrence of AM fungi on rice plants at varying stages of growth was observed. At the seedling stage (40 DAS) 15 AMF species, 60 root colonization and arbuscules in good amount were observed. But at maturation stage (80 DAS) when plants were submerged in water, not only species of AMF reduced but also per cent of root colonization decreased and no arbuscules were seen. At harvesting stage (120 DAS), AM fungal species and percent root colonization increased. Vesicles were formed at this stage. 22 AMF species were recorded, and 8 AMF species were found common at all stages. Species of Gigaspora were found at seedling stage and 8 AMF were recorded only at harvesting stage. From the result it can be deduced that Glomus species was dominant in rhizosphere of rice plants followed by Acualospora, Gigaspora and Scutellospora which were poorly distributed.

1 table, 34 ref

012168   Dhale D A;Markandeya S K;Jadhav D S (Botany Dep, Govt. Institute of Science, Caves Road, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Pharmacognostic evaluation of Adhatoda zeylanica Medic.. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(1), 4-8.

Deals with the pharmacognostic investigations on the leaf of Adhatoda zeylanica Medic. (Acanthaceae). Macroscopic and microscopic examinations of the organs and different chemical test were carried out for the authentication of the leaf samples. Extractive values as well as quantitative estimation of various phytochemicals have been studied.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

012167   Deore S L;Khadabadi S S (NO, Government College of Pharmacy, Shivaji Nagar, Kathora Naka, Amravati-444 604, Email: khadabadi@yahoo.com) : Pharmacognostical study of plant Chlorophytum borivilianum. Biomed 2008, 3(3-4), 239-50.

Deals with detail pharmacognostic studies of commercially very important plant that is Chlorophytum borivilianum family liliaceae. Morphological, histological, chemical and physical parameters evaluated will certainly helpful to prepare monograph of this plant.

2 illus, 6 tables, 23 ref

012166   Dahiwale M;Baviskar R N;Suryawanshi N S (Botany Dep, K.M. Agrawal College, Kalyan) : Integrated management of Alternaria alternata causing fruit rot of pomegranate. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(1), 44-5.

A total of 15 isolates of Altemaria altemata obtained from pomegranate were tested against carbendazim. It was also tested against leaf extract of 15 medicinal plants, out of which Azadirachta indica, Adhatoda vasica, Terminalia chebula, Terminalia Billerica, and Chrysanthemum indicum showed PCE from 60.12 -65.85%. When the plant extract was mixed with carbendazim, PCE against Alternaria alternata increased. Azadirachata indica leaf extract mixed with carbendazim showed 78.33% PCE.

3 ref

012165   Chougule P M (Botany Dep, Smt. Kasturbai Walchand College, Sangli-416 416) : Occurrence of a female glossopteridalean fructification from Kamthi formation of Maharashtra. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(1), 14-15.

Plant impressions of Kamthi Formation of Maharashtra were collected from Nagpur and Chandrapur districts. They belong to Gymnosperms and Pteridophytes. Several species of Glossopteris leaves were collected from different localities. One of the specimens is a female fructification attached to Glossopteris leaf. It is Cistella type fructification and devoid of cuticle. It agrees with the characters of Plumstedia ovata (Surange and Chandra) Rigby. It is an addition to the Kamthi Flora of Maharashtra.

1 illus, 4 ref

012164   Chitra R;Rajamani K (NO, Horticulture College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural U, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: chitra.varadharaj@gmail.com) : Antibacterial activity of herbal drinking water. Biomed 2008, 3(2), 118-22.

About 80% of all illnesses in developing countries are due to drinking water infections. Herbal traditions throughout the world have used infusions and decoctions of herbs in drinking water. Study was taken up to assess the antibacterial activity of drinking water on treatment with Piper longum and Caesalpinia sappan extracts. Among the various concentrations, 0.5 g Piper longum root extract and 0.5 g Caesalpinia sappan bark extract treated with drinking water recorded high antibacterial activity.

4 tables, 10 ref

012163   Chidambaram Pillai S;Mohan V R (P.G. Plant Biology and Biotechnology Dep, V.O. Chidambaram College, Thoothukudi, Tamilnadu) : Pharmacognostic studies on the leaves of Bauhinia purpurea L. Biomed 2007, 2(2), 212-17.

Results of pharmacognostical studies on the leaves of Bauhinia purpurea L. are presented. The results on morphoanatomical and physico-chemical studies have been discussed. Quantitative estimation of total ash value (8.90%), insoluble ash (1.32%) and water soluble ash (0.87%) may sense as useful indices for identification of powdered drug. Histochemical studies elucidating two rows of narrow cylindrical palisade ceIls, vascular bundles, abaxial bundle sheath extensions and prismatic crystals of cubical and rhomboidal types may also sense as useful index in identification of tissue.

1 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

012162   Chauhan S;Sharma S B;Chauhan S V S (Botany Dep, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Univ, Agra-282 002, Email: svs250@rediffmail.com) : Reproductive biology of Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpinaceae). Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt-1), 45-50.

Parkinsonia aculeata L. (Caesalpinaceae), a small xerophytic tree species, flowers twice a year, during March-April and August-September with profuse flowering in the former period. The flowers, arranged in lax axillary racemes are yellow, hermaphrodite, hypogynous, zygomorphic and complete. They open daily during 5.00-6.30 am followed by anther dehiscence at 6.00-7.30 am. There are 10 stamens (4 long, 4 medium and 2 small staminodes) and each flower produces 65040 ±1201 pollen grains. Temperature and relative humidity have direct effect on pollen viability, which is low during March-April and high during August-September. The flowers offer both pollen and nectar for the visitors, which include honeybees, butterflies, wasps and ants. Fruiting in this species is through autogamy, geitonogamy and xenogamy, however, it has predominantly facultative xenogamous breeding system. This system helps it to be adaptive for colonization.

2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

012161   Chattopadhyay R R;Bhattacharyya S K;Medda C (Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203, Barrackpore Trunk Road, Kolkata-700 108, Email: rabi@isical.ac.in) : Comparative study on the antibacterial potential of some medicinal plants commonly used in Indian traditional medicine for the treatment of microbial infections. Biomed 2008, 3(3-4), 202-9.

Comparative in vitro antibacterial potential of extracts (aqueous and ethanol) of five important medicinal plants (Aegle marmelos, Azadirachta indica, Terminalia chebula, Mangifera indica and Ocimum sanctum) of importance in the Ayurvedic system of traditional medicine used in India to treat common microbial infections were investigated using microbial growth inhibition assay methods against common pathogenic bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Escherichia coli) of clinical origin. It was observed that all the plant materials showed varying degrees of strain specific inhibitory action against the strains evaluated. Among the five plants used, ethanolic extract of two plants namely T. chebula and A. marmelos were found to have the strong antibacterial activity against all the strains tested. The percentage of inhibition of the plant extracts against the test strains with respect to reference standard antibiotic Gentamycin ranged from 19% to 95%. On the basis of the of inhibitory zone diameter (IZD), minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC), MIC_index and total activity values against the test strains our data indicate that ethanolic extract of T. chebula had a wider spectrum and a superior antibacterial potential against common pathogenic bacteria followed by A. marmelos. The results suggest that T. chebula and A. marmelos are potential candidate plants for the treatment of common bacterial infections caused by both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria and reinforce the importance of ethnomedical approach as a potential source of bioactive compounds.

2 tables, 15 ref

012160   Atluri J B;Ramana S P V;Subba Reddi C (Botany Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Eventide blooming, insect pollination, low fruiting and seeding in the strychnine tree, Strychnos nux-vomica linn.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2008, 78(Pt-1), 66-71.

Natural populations of Strychnos nux-vomica Linn, in Eastern Ghats region produce heavy bloom during February - April. The flowers open in the evening hours during 1500h- 2000h, with a peak at 1600h - 1800 h. A syrphid fly Sphaerophoria indiana and three bee species Xylocopa latipes (juveniles), Apis cerana indica and Trigona iridipennis are the pollinators. S. nux-vomica seems to have adapted a mixed mating system with cryptic self-incompatibility. Fruits mature over a 10-11 month period and mature fruit set is very low i.e. 3.6. There is heavy damage to flowers mostly by sooty mould Capnodium sp. and also by aphid infestation and egg-laying by syrphid fly. Only 3-4 seeds develop out of the 12-13 ovules in the ovary. The limited seediness of fruit might be of ecological advantage to S. nux-vomica since its fruit gets dispersed through water.

2 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

012159   Anarthe S J;Bhalke R D;Jadhav R B;Surana S J (Pharmacognosy Dep, Sanjivani College of Pharmacy, Kopergaon, A/P - Kopergaon-413 736) : In vitro antioxidant activities of methanol extract of Dendrophthoe falcata Linn. stem. Biomed 2008, 3(2), 182-9.

Evaluates the antioxidant aclivity of methanolic extract of stems of Dendrophthoe falcate parasite on on mango, Mangifera indica (Anacardiaceae) in various in vitro models. Besides, total phenolic was tested using Folin Ciocalteau reagent and total flavanoid content was investigated. The methanolic extract of Dendrophthoe falcata at 200 μg/ml showed significant antioxidant activity (p<0.05). The DPPH radical scavenging and anti-lipid peroxidation activity of methanolic extract have IC₅₀, value 179.67,33.43,17.106 respectively. The effect of methanol extract on reducing power of the extract was studied according to the reaction of Fe⁺³ to Fe⁺². The reducing power of the extract increased with the increasing amount of the concentration. The in vitro studies clearly indicated that the methanol extract of Dendrophthoe falcata possessed significant antioxidant activity.

4 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

012158   Aitawade M M;Gaikwad N B;Yadav S R (Botany Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Seed morphology of some species belonging to family convolvulaceae of Maharashtra. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(1), 71-3.

The seed characters are of great value in identification and evaluationary relationships. Seeds of 16 species belonging 2 genera of Convolvulaceae were collected from Maharashtra. The morphological variability in seed surfaces was studied in detail. Convolvulaceae show significant variation of diagnostic value in size, shape, hairiness and colour of seeds. Among the taxa studied, Merremia tuberosa show largest seeds whereas Ipomoea eriocarpa smallest. Seed colour ranged from creamy yellow to brown to black. The seeds are characterized by smooth, tuberculate to hairy surfaces.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

012157   Aher R K (Botany Dep, New Arts, Commerce and Science College, Parner, Dist. Ahmednagar, Maharashtra) : Effect of am fungi on Brassica nigra, L.. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(1), 46-7.

An investigation was carried out on the AM colonization and growth of Brassca nigra inoculated with Glomus fasciculatum (GF) in sterilized soil using earthen pots. After 30, 45 and 60 days of plant growth 44.2, 48.8 and 74.4 percent root colonization was recorded in GF inoculated plants. GF improved plant growth.

1 table, 11 ref

012156   Abat J K;Saigal P;Deswal R (Plant Molecular Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Botany Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007, Email: rdeswal@botany.du.ac.in) : S-nitrosylation-another biological switch like phosphorylation?. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2008, 14(1-2), 119-30.

Nitric oxide (NO) has emerged as a key-signaling molecule affecting plant growth and development right from seed germination to cell death. It is now being considered as a new plant hormone. NO is predominantly produced by nitric oxide synthase (NOS) in animal systems. NOS converts L-arginine (substrate) to citrulline and NO is a byproduct of the reaction. However, a similar biosynthetic mechanism is still not fully established in plants as NOS is still to be purified. First plant NOS gene (AtNOSl) was cloned from Arabidopsis suggesting the existence of NOS in plants. It was shown to be involved in hormonal signaling, stomatal closure, flowering, pathogen defense response, oxidative stress, senescence and salt tolerance. However, recent studies have raised critical questions/concerns about its substantial role in NO biosynthesis. Despite the ever increasing number of NO responses observed, little is known about the signal transduction pathway(s) and mechanisms by which NO interacts with different components and results in altered cellular activities. A brief overview is presented here. Proteins are one of the major bio-molecule besides DNA, RNA and lipids which are modified by NO and its derivatives. S-nitrosylation is a ubiquitous NO mediated post-translational modification that might regulate broad spectrum of proteins. In this review S-nitrosylation formation, catabolism and its biologia.l significance is discussed to present the current scenario of this modification in plants.

^iia3 illus, 1 table, 81 ref

011313   Venkateshwarhu M (Botany Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Callus initiation and plantlet regeneration from cotyledon explants of Cucumis melo var. Utilissimus. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 251-4.

Callus induction from a suitable explants the present investigation callus induction in Cucumis melo L. Var. Utilissimus for callus induction studies. Cotyledon explants excited from six days aseptically grown seedlings NAA 2 mg/l + BAP 2 mg/l was found best among various combination used for induction of callus. For differentiation of callus BAP 1 mg/l + NAA 0.5 mg/i combination was found to be the best that resulted in maximum number of shoot lets. For differentiation followed by profuse rooting to the regenerated shoots. In addition to auxin and cytokinin there are reports involving the possible roles of other growth regulators in the induction of organogenesis. Studies involving the transformation of protoplasts would be of little value unless the genetically altered plant material could be regenerated into a plantlet. Their observation was conformed and extended, who also proved the ability of auxins to stimulate root formation and inhibit shoot formations. A similar effect of the hormone in enhancing shoot induction has been reported in one of the Asclepiadaceae family members (Beena et a/., 2003). The effect of benzyl amino purine in inducing shoot induction was already reported in some of the important medicinal plants.

1 table, 13 ref

011312   Venkataraman Kumar;Mohan V R;Louis Jesudass L (P.G. Dep of Botany, V.O.C. College, Tuticorin-628 008) : Analysis of fatty acids in fresh and decomposed seaweeds of Tuticorin coast. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 113-16.

The fatty acid composition as methyl esters of five selected seaweeds viz. Ulva lactuca, Caulerparacemosa, Gracilaria corticata, Padina tetrastromatica and Sargassum ilicifolium in fresh and decomposed states was determined and relative percentages are presented.

1 table, 14 ref

011311   Vashisth A;Nagarajan S (Agricultural Physics Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI), New Delhi-110 012, Email: khaliananta@rediffmail.com) : Characterization of water binding and germination traits of magnetically exposed maize (Zea mays L.) seeds equilibrated at different relative humidities at two temperatures. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2009, 46(2), 184-91.

A study was undertaken to characterize the water sorption properties and enhancement in germination and seedling vigour of maize (Zea mays L.) seeds exposed to static magnetic fields of 100 mT and 200 mT for 2 and 1h, respectively. Water sorption isotherms were constructed for magnetically- exposed and unexposed seeds by equilibrating over different saturated salt solutions at 25 and 35°C. The germination and vigour parameters were evaluated for magnetically-exposed and unexposed seeds, equilibrated over the wide range of relative humidities (RHs) at 25 and 35°C. Moisture content increased with increase in RH and decreased with increase in equilibrium temperature. The germination and vigour reduced at high and very low humidities. Magnetically-exposed seeds maintained higher germination and vigour at both temperatures and all RHs, indicating the better quality of magnetically- exposed seeds. The leachate conductivity of magnetically-exposed seeds was lower than unexposed seeds at all RHs, suggesting better membrane integrity in magnetically-exposed seeds. Analysis of the isotherms using D'Arcy-Watt equation revealed that irrespective of the temperature, in magnetically-treated seeds weak binding sites were more and strong and multi-molecular binding sites were less compared to the unexposed seeds. Total binding sites were more in unexposed control seeds. The modification of binding properties of seed water and increased seed membrane integrity in magnetically-exposed seeds might have enhanced the germination traits and early seedling growth of maize.

011310   Upadhyay G K;Ansari A;Dalai A K (Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Howrh-711 103) : Dorstenia bahiensis Klotzsch ex Fisch. & C.A. Mey. (Moraceae) - first naturalised record for India. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 479-82.

Dorslenia bahiensis Klotzsch ex Fisch. & C.A.Mey. introduced in India is recorded in wild for the first time from Kerala. Detailed description along with distribution, ecological observation, illustration, photoplates, etc. are provided herewith to facilitate easy identification of the species in the field.

2 ilus, 7 ref

011309   Tomar A;Singh H;Singh V (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut-250 001) : Exotic elements in the flora of Baghpat Uttar Pradesh. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 463-71.

In the paper 76 exotic angiospermic plant species belonging to 34 families and 67 genera have been enumerated from Baghpat District, with focus on their origin, habit form, distribution, habitat and locality. 9.05% flora is exotic in Baghpat District. 44.74% (34 out of 76 species) exotic plants come from America alone. The maximum number of exotic plants (9 species) belongs to the family Euphorbiaceae.

2 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

011308   Thinesh T;Mathews G;Patterson Edward J K (NO, Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, 44-Beach Road, Tuticorin-628 001) : Occurrence of cyanobacterial infection (black band disease) in Mandapam group of islands (gulf of Mannar) southeast Tamilnadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 67-75.

The black-band disease in corals is caused due to a consortium of microorganisms dominated by Cyanobacteria (blue green algae). Assessment of black band disease in corals was carried out in six islands of Mandapam group in the Gulf of Mannar during February 2007. Three reef sites were selected in each island and four transects were laid in each reef site. The overall average percentage of black band disease observed was 10.46±2.76. Shingle Island was most affected with 2.74±0.43% followed by Manoli Island with 2.41±1.12% and the least affected island was Pullivasal with 1.05±0.24%. The most affected corals were Montipora spp followed by Pocillopora spp and Acropora spp.

13 illus, 21 ref

011307   Thakur I K;Chauhan K C (Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources Dep, Dy Y S Parmar Univ of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Improvement of white mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) I. variation, estimates of genetic parameters and correlation in different accessions. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 423-8.

Magnitude of variability among various traits alongwith their inter-relationship were investigated in 32 genotypes of Morus alba. Moderate to high genetic coefficient of variation (GCV), heritability and genetic gain were noticed for leaf yield, shoot height, shoot diameter and number of leaves indicating that these characters can be reliable for effecting selection in future. Shoot height showed significant and positive correlation with shoot diameter, internodallength, number of leaves, leaf width and leaf yield. Shoot diameter exhibited positive association with internodal length and number of leaves with leaf yield. Leaf length also revealed significant and positive correlation with leaf width and leaf yield whereas leaf width exhibited positive association with leaf yield. Hence at first instance study revealed that shoot height, number of leaves, leaf length and width could be important for selection in White Mulberry.

4 illus, 13 tables

011306   Swami A;Kasera P K;Sher Mohammed (Plant Ecology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001) : Primary and secondary metabolites produced during different seasons and physiological stages in shankhapushpi (Convolvulus microphyllus). Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(1), 91-4.

The study was undertaken to examine the synthesis of various metabolites such as leaf pigments, proline, osmotic potential (OP), crude protein, phosphorus, alkaloids and phenols during different seasons and physiological (growth) stages in Convolvulus microphyllus. Leaf pigments, proline, total alkaloids and phenols were maximum in summer season during flowering stage. Winter season was most favourable for maximum phosphorus and crude protein during seedling and flowering stages, respectively. Maximum total sugars were observed in rainy season during seedling stage.

^ssc2 tables, 24 ref

011305   Srivastava R C;Adi Community (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Arunachal Pradesh Circle, Post Box No 127, Itanagar-791 111, Email: rcs_bsi@yahoo.co.in) : Traditional knowledge of Adi tribe of Arunachal Pradesh on plants. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 146-53.

Arunachal Pradesh, falling under Easter Himalayan region one of the global mega-diversity centers, is a botanical paradise and the home of 110 ethnic communities (tribes) most of which are still forest dwellers and so diverse that they can not understand each others language. Hindi is gradually becoming popular among the persons, who are near townships. The paper throws light on different uses of 108 species of plants in day-to-day life of the people belonging to Adi ethnic community of Arunachal Pradesh.

011304   Sreejith K A;Chandrashekara U M;Kallarackal J (NO, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur District, Kerala) : Determination of the successional status of tropical evergreen species using chlorophyll fluorescence technique. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 257-9.

Photosynthetic performance of six tropical evergreen forest species, representing three successional groups was studied using the chlorophyll fluorescence technique. The study showed that the maximum photosynthetic efficiency could be seen under less light conditions in Palaquium ellipticum and Cullenia exarillata and in high light conditions in Macaranga peltata. The study also showed that in species such as Actinodaphne bourdillonii and Clerodendrum viscosum, analysis of photosynthetic performance alone might not be sufficient to categorize them into different successional groups. Thus an integrated study on phenology, growth and survivability patterns and photosynthetic performance of tropical evergreen species to assign them the successional status is suggested.

1 table, 8 ref

011303   Sourabh Deb;Tali A;Singh R K (Botany Dep, Rajiv Gandhi University, Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh) : New taxa of family xylariaceae from Arunachal Pradesh. Indian For 2008, 134(4), 574-8.

Different parts of Arunachal Pradesh were surveyed to collect three genera Xylaria, Daldinia and Hypoxylon of the family Xylariaceae. A total of 10 species belonging to these genera were identified, which included eight species of Xylaria and one species each of Daldinia and Hypoxylon and are the first report from the state.

1 table, 10 ref

011302   Sobitha Bai R;Amutha M;Asir Selin Kumar R (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Botany, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Effect of Cymodocea serrulata on photosynthetic pigments and protein content in Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L. taub. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 255-8.

The fertilizer effect of the seagrass Cymodocea serrulata on photosynthetic pigments and protein contents in the seedlings of Cyamopsis tetragonoloba was studied. The seagrass extract promoted chlorophyll a, b and protein content at all the concentrations. The most effective concentration was found to be 5%.

3 tables, 16 ref

011301   Singh D;Dey M;Singh D K (Botanical Survey of India, Central National Herbarium, Howrah-711 103) : Oil-bodies in some foliose liverworts from east Sikkim-II. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 315-20.

Oil-bodies in 24 species of leafy liverworts belonging to order Jungermanniales are described from East Stkkim.

24 illus, 17 ref

011300   Singh A K;Singh S;Srivastava M;Srivastava S (Botany Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Seed and seedling morphology of a medicinal plant-catharanthus roseus. Indian For 2008, 134(4), 537-41.

Deals with seed and seedling morphology of a very common ornamental and valuable medicinal plant Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don from Varanasi District (D.P.). Seedling morphology observed for 53 days. Root/Shoot length value (RIS Value) and Day and Date of appearance of different leaf stages have been provided in tabulated form.

1 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

011299   Singh A K;Singh S (Botany Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi-221 002) : Morpho - taxonomic observation on seedlings of Parthenium hysterophorus L.- a well known exotic weed. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 197-200.

Deals with seedling morphology and taxonomy of Parthenium hysterophorus L., a well known exotic weed from Varanasi region, Uttar Pradesh, India. Seedling morphology is observed for 44 days up to 5th true leaf stage. Seedling morphology showed that seed germination is epigeal, the seedlings are macranga type and phanerocotylar. The seed leaves are isocotylar, opposite and persist up to 6th true leaf stage, obovate, entire, green, smooth with less distinct veins. The first true leaf was ovate, entire, dark green, hairy, veination unicostate reticulate. Subsequent leaves were same as first true leaf, but margin denate at 2nd or 3rd true leaf stage. Fourth or 5th true leaves were peltate with lyrate margin and oblique base.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

011298   Singh A K;Singh R A;Sunil Kumar (Botany and Plant Physiology Dep, Rajendra Agricultural Univ, Pusa-848 125, Email: drak_s@sify.com) : Influence of salinity on seedling growth and metabolism in maize genotypes. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(1), 95-9.

Twelve maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes were evaluated under different levels of salinity (<0.0, 8.0, 12.0 dSm^-1) by growing in sand culture with Hoagland solution (control) and Hoagland solution enriched with salts (NaCl : CaCl₂: Na₂SO₄) for 20 days. After primary screening on dry weight basis, two most tolerant (Sabour sel 9 (a) and Jogia local - (x)- S₃-12-1-16) and two most susceptible (Pant 7421-(x)-S₃-129-1 and AB(w)-S₄-4-3-#) genotypes were further grown under similar test condition to investigate the physiological basis of salinity tolerance. At maximum salinity stress (12.0 dSm^{-1), there were comparatively more accumulation of sugars, chlorophylls, carotenoids and free amino acids alongwith higher catalase and peroxidase activities. Possibly, some of these indices might be useful for improving maize genotypes against salinity stress.}

^ssc2 tables, 21 ref

011297   Singh A (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005) : Influence of tree canopy on dry matter yield of seedlings of Leucaena leucocephala on mine spoil in a dry tropical environment. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 207-8.

1 table, 6 ref

011296   Shukla A N;Singh K P (Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002) : Diversity of woody plants in achanakmar-amarkantak biosphere reserve, central India. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 269-82.

Woody plants of Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh have been dealt with. The critical study on collections as well as published literature revealed the occurrence of 168 species belonging to 114 genera and 44 families. A systematic enumeration of the species along with their habit, flowering and fruiting periods, uses and localities have been provided.

1 table, 13 ref

011295   Shobana S;Nagasathya A (NO, Syed Hameedha College of Arts and Science, East Coast Road, Kilakarai-623 806, Email: leena_shobana@yahoomail.co.in) : Pharmacological analysis of Achyranthes aspera linn. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(2), 107-13.

Herbs have provided us some of the very important life-saving drugs used in the armamentarium of modern medicine. However, among the estimated 25,0000 - 4,00,000 plant species, only 8% have been studied for biological activity, and about 15% have been investigated phytochemically. Achyranthes aspera Linn, belonging to family Amaranthaceae, is commonly found as a weed on the wayside and in waste areas throughout India. It is widely used for asthmatic cough, snakebite, hydrophobia, urinary calculi, rabies, influenza, piles, bronchitis, diarrhea, renal dropsy, gonorrhea, abdominal pain etc. The present study was undertaken to check the phytochemical and antibacterial activity and hepatoprotective effect of Achyranthes aspera Linn. Acetone, methanol, benzene, chloroform and water extracts of A. aspera Linn were used for phytochemical screening and antimicrobial activity. Phytochemical studies indicated that A. aspera Linn contains a broad spectrum of secondary metabolites. Phenol, alkaloid, saponin and flavonoids were predominantly found in all the five crude extracts followed by steroids, amino acids and triterpenoids. The crude extracts of A.aspera Linn showed varying degrees of antibacterial activity against all tested bacteria. The hepatoprotective activity of the aqueous extract was studied on CCl₄-induced liver toxicity in rats. The activity assessed by monitoring various liver function tests such as alanine transaminase (SGPT), serum lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate transaminase (SGOT). Reduction in lipid peroxidation, restoration of glutathione and vitamin E levels indicated the strong antioxidant property of the leaf. The extract exhibited significant antibacterial, antioxidant and hepatoprotective activities.

6 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

011294   Sheela D;Girija Kumari D (Botany Dep, S.N. College, Kollam, Kerala) : Phytosociological studies on Synedrella nodiflora, gaertn- a common weed in Kerala. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 439-44.

Synedrella is a short lived, erect dichotomously branched weed which is distributed in the plains of all districts. The phytosociological studies show that the common associates of the species are Achyranthes aspera L., Phyllanthus niruru L., Eclipta alba Hassk., and Euphorbia pulcherrima Wild. The phytograph reveals its high frequency in the population.

1 illus, 3 ref

011293   Shanthi P (Botany Dep, Holy Cross College (Autonomous), Tiruchirappalli-620 002, Email: shanthivaishali@yahoo.co.in ) : In Vitro propagation of Ormocarpum sennoides (willd) DC. prodr. from shoot tip explant. Indian J Pl Physiol 2008, 13(1), 29-32.

Ormocarpum sennoides, a medicinal tree has been successfully micropropagated using shoot tip explant on Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium and MS medium with different concentrations (0.5,1.0, 2.0, 3.0 and 4.0 mg I^-1) of benzyladenine (BA), adenine sulphate (Ads) and kinetin (Kn). A maximum of 10 shoots were observed at 3.0 mg I^-1 BA. The regenerated shoots were transferred to MS medium fortified with different concentrations (0.5 - 2.0 mg l^-1) of gibberellic acid (GA₃) and 3.0 mg l^-1 BA for shoot elongation. The maximum of 2.0 - 2.5 cm long shoots were observed at 1.0 mg l^-1 GA₃. The regenerated shoots were excised and transferred to rooting medium containing indole acetic acid (IAA), α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 3-indole butyric acid (IBA) at different concentrations. The highest of 60 of rooting was observed at 0.3 mg l^-1 IAA, IBA and NAA. The in vitro derived plantlets were hardened and acclimatized in soil.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

011292   Saxena D K;Shivom Singh;Srivastava K (Bryology Laboratory. Botany Dep, Bareilly College, Bareilly) : Taxonomy of Rhodobryum from Kumaon and Garhwal region of Uttarakhand, India. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 437-40.

The study is focused on the distribution and taxonomy of beautiful rose moss Rhodobryum roseum (Hedw.) Limpr. and Rhodobryum giganteum (Schwaegr.) Par. from Kumaon and Garhwal hills respectively. These species of moss Rhodobryum grows in the form of green rosette patches on soil of usually reasonable nutrient rich status. The moss species remains green in summer but devoid of moisture. It is also observed that seasonal environmental factors do not much influence distribution of R. roseum however R. giganieum found sensitive as evident by change in colour and its restricted distribution.

2 illus, 12 ref

011291   Sandhyarani Devi;Sanatombi Devi Y;Singh P K (Ethnobotany and Plant Physiology Laboratory. Life Sciences Dep, Manipur Univ, Canchipur, Imphal-795 003) : Floristic distribution of an invasive weed hyptis suaveolens poit. in the valley districts of Manipur. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 177-80.

A survey was conducted to study the distribution of Hyptis suaveolens Piot. of family Lamiaceae, which is becoming a potent invader in the valley districts of Manipur. During the survey, nine species were collected which were found to be associated with this plant. Habitat, taxonomic characters and its ethnobotanical uses and harmful effects were also studied. Phytosociological parameters for this plant were incoporated. Importance Value Index (IVI) for these plants were calculated by laying random quadrats of 1 metre square (1 quardrat= 1m²). The value of IVI is found to be maximum in Hyptis suaveolens (103.4) and minimum in Sida acuta (13.19) which shows that when this plant Hyptis suaveolens grows in an area, it starts dominating that particular area. Invasive plants are the second most important threat to our native plants after habitat destruction. As the plant is an invasive one, it is high time to understand this plant and preventive measures should be taken up to restrict further spread of this plant.

1 tavle, 15 ref

011290   Rasingam L;Pandey R P;Diwakar P G (Botanical Survey of India, Andaman & Nicobar Circle, Port Blair-744 102) : Two new additions to the orchid flora of Andaman Islands. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 429-30.

Two orchid species viz. Tropidia angulosa (Lindl.) Blume and Zeuxine affinis (Lindl.) Benth. ex Hook.f. are reported as new additions to the flora of Andaman Islands.

4 ref

011289   Ramalingam R;Natanamurugaraj G;Muruganandam A;Senthil Kumar T;Arulmurugan P;Jeyachandran S (P.G. and Research Dep of Botany and Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College, Poondi-613 503) : Seasonal distribution of phytoplankton in the Kaduvaiyaru estuary and Nagapattinam coast, southeast Tamilnadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 39-47.

The work was carried out to study the distribution and abundance of phytoplankton from Kaduvaiyaru estuary and Nagapattinam nearshore for a period of one year from September 2006 to August 2007. Physical and chemical parameters like temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, salinity and nutrients such as dissolved nitrate, reactive silicate and total phosphorus were analysed. The maximum abundance of total phytoplankton was recorded during premonsoon in August and summer season April at Kaduvaiyaru estuary. Low phytoplankton distribution and abundance were recorded during monsoon season. Among the phytoplankton, diatoms were recorded more than Chlorophyceae, Chrysophyceae and Cyanophyceae members.

8 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

011288   Rajesh R P;Murugan A (NO, Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, 44-Beach Road, Tuticorin-628 001) : Antifouling chemical defense in seaweed Centroceras clavulatum distributed along Tuticorin coast. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 133-9.

The seaweed Centrocems clavulatum distributed along Tuticorin coast around Hare Island is visibly free from foulers and the epibacterial load of this seaweed was 20x 10² cfu/cm^{2. The dichloromethane, diethyl ether and acetone extracts of the seaweed were screened for antifouling activity against 10 biofilm bacterial strains. Diethyl ether extract showed activity against eight biofilm bacteria and that of dichloromethane against seven at 500μg/disc concentration. The subsequent partitioning and column fractionation of the diethyl ether extract indicated the non-polar nature of the active substance. In mussel bioassay, C. clavulatum extract inhibited byssal production and attachment in 50% (EC₅₀) of the mussels at 250±25 μg/ml. The LC₅₀ value was 275±15.5μg /ml. The study indicated the presence of antifouling chemical defense in the seaweed.}

3 tables, 20 ref

011287   Rajasekaran A;Singh J (NO, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Panthaghati, Shimla-171 009, Email: rajsekaran@yahoo.com) : Ethnobotany of Indian horse chestnut (Aesculus indica) in Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 285-6.

Aesculus indica Coleb. ex Wall. (Hippocastanaceae), known as Himalayan chest nut or Indian horse chestnut is a large tree, distributed in the Himalayas from Kashmir to Nepal. The tree is locally known as Khanor in Himachal Pradesh and its parts are used in day-to-day activities as fodder, medicine and timber. A flour, locally known as Tattwakhar is prepared from the seeds of the tree. In the paper, detailed ethnobotanical information on the tree collected from Chuwar valley of Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh along with traditional method of preparation of Tattwakhar flour is presented.

011286   Raja P;Golda Vincy V;Murugan A (NO, Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, 4-Beach Road, Tuticorin-628 001) : Chemical defense in the seawed Caulerpa scalpelliformis from Tuticorin coast. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 123-32.

The seaweed Caulerpa scalpelliformis occurring along Tuticorin coast of Gulf of Mannar was investigated for chemical defense against micro and macro foulers and herbivores. Among the seaweed extracts screened against 15 marine biofilm bacteria, the methanol extract showed activity against 12 biofilm bacteria at a concentration of 250 μg/disc with an inhibition zone range of trace to 5 mm. The methanol extract was fractionated using column chromatography and the 50% ethyl acetate: 50% acetone fraction showed wide spectrum activity. The crude methanol extract completely inhibited the byssus thread formation and attachment in the brown mussel Perna indica at 270±25 ng/ml. The EC₅₀ and LC₅₀ values were 45±5 μg/ml and 79 ±2.5 μg/ml respectively. The lower EC₅₀ value than that of LC₅₀ and the 100% recovery within 24 hrs in the toxicity assay indicated the non-toxic nature of the extract. The multiple choices feeding deterrent assay with the fish Monodactylus kottelati showed 95% deterrence at seaweed extract concentration of 75 μg. The study showed the existence of chemical defense in the seaweed, especially targeted against herbivores.

5 tables, 23 ref

011285   Rafath H;Ghosh S (Botany Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Chemical regulation of abscission in some deciduous plants. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 33-42.

The explants of four deciduous genera namely, Oestrum nocturnum, Cicirna momum, Tabernea montana and Hibiscus rosasinensis were screened for their response to exogenous application of aqueous solutions ranging from 10^-4M to 10^-9 M strength of each test chemical viz. Indole acetic acid (IAA) and Indole butyric acid (IBA) of Indole group, 2,4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-0) and 2,4,5-Trichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4,5-T) of phenoxy group, Naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and Naphthoxy acetic acid (NOA) of Naphthalene group, gibberellic acid (GA) and Abscisic acid (ABA) of growth regulators separately both in spring and winter Time taken for abscission in debladed petioles of explants of the four genera was recorded separately. All the test chemicals caused profound effect in retarding abscission of petioles in all the explants of the four genera with some degree of difference in the magnitude of delay in abscission. Higher the strength of the chemical applied greater was the inhibition of abscission. Among the treated sets, the maximum delay in petiole abscission was noticed in explants of Cestrum and was followed by Cicirna, Tabernea and Hibiscus respectively. In general, the time taken for petiole abscission was more in winter than spring in all the four genera. Of the four group of chemicals, phenoxy chemicals appeared to be the most effective inhibitors of abscission. Naphthalene chemicals were more effective than Indole chemicals while growth regulators were mild abscission inhibitors. Further studies on abscission of several important deciduous plants under light and temperature controlled conditions are necessary to understand this important physio-anatomical process.

4 tables, 26 ref

011284   Punetha N;Bhakuni K;Kholia B S (Botany Dep, Government Post Graduate College, Pithoragarh-262 502) : Habitat ecology and prothallial development in endemic Pteris subquinata. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 287-90.

Population structure of endemic Pteris subquinata is given along with the ecology of the substrata. Gametophytes collected from the nature were analyzed for the sexuality which revealed that the gametophyte populations are generally unisexual but when isolated gametophytes were grown, they became bisexual. Reasons of being endemic are discussed.

2 illus, 11 ref

011283   Predeep S V;Balan A P;Prasad V P (Botany Dep, SVR NSS College, T.P.Puram, P.O., Vazhoor, Kottayam (Kerala)) : Senna uniflora (Mill.) Irwin & Barneby (Fabaceae-caesalpinioideae)-a new record to Kerala. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 435-6.

Senna uniflora, a native of tropical South America is newly recorded from the state of Kerala. The plant is already known from Maharashtra and Karnataka in India. Description, nomenclature, illustration etc, are provided to facilitate identification.

1 illus, 4 ref

011282   Prachi;Chauhan N;Kumar D;Kasana M S (Botany Dep, CCR (PG) College, Muzaffarnagar-251 001, Email: mskasana@gmail.com) : Medicinal plants of Muzaffarnagar district used in treatment of urinary tract and kidney stones. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 191-5.

A floristic survey of ethnomedicinal plants was conducted at Muzaffarnagar district of Uttar Pradesh to assess the potentiality of plant resources. The study revealed that 15 plant species belonging to 13 families are used as anti-urolithiatic agents in local remedies. The information on medicinal uses is based on the exhaustive interviews with local healers and herbalists, practicing traditional system of medicine. Details of the plants, parts used, method of preparation, dosage and mode of administration have been reported. Equisetum debile Roxb. and Gomphrena celosioides Mart. are most effective and commonly used in treatment of urinary tract and kidney stones. These may prove precious potential source of bioactive compounds of therapeutic value against uro- and nephro-lithiasis and hence need further critical scientific testing, phytochemical examination and clinical evaluation for the purpose.

011281   Paarakh P M (Pharmacognosy Dep, The Oxford College of Pharmacy, J P Nagar, I Phase, Bangalore-560 078) : Ficus racemosa Linn.-An overview. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(1), 84-90.

Ficus racemosa Linn. is a moderate-sized avenue tree found throughout India either wild or cultivated for its fruits eaten by villagers. It is popular in Indigenous System of Medicine like Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy. In the Traditional System of Medicine, various plant parts such as bark, root, leaves, fruits and latex are used in dysentery, diarrhoea, diabetes, bilious affections, stomachache, menorrhage, haemoptysis, piles and as carminative and astringent. The present review is therefore, an effort to give a detailed survey of the literature on its pharmacognosy, phytochemistry, traditional and pharmacological uses.

011280   Njoroge G N;Bussmann R W (Botany Dep, Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology, PO Box 62000 Nairobi, Kenya, Email: gnjerinjoroge@hotmail.com) : Ethnotherapeutic management of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) and reproductive health conditions in Central Province of Kenya. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 255-61.

Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are among the most common infectious diseases that pose major public health concerns in the world today. Although plants used in management of reproductive health in traditional communities play a major role in primary healthcare, they are often over looked in most ethnobotanical surveys. The study investigates various STDs and reproductive health conditions managed through ethnotherapeutic agents as well as the important herbal remedies utilized in Central Province of Kenya. Of 49 plant species belonging to 30 families used in managing various STDs and reproductive health conditions in the study area, 16 species were mentioned three or more times during the survey. Herbal agents used for the treatment of these conditions, especially the ones with high agreement on their use among respondents, form an important resource for antimicrobial screening against microorganisms associated with STDs especially those which have already developed resistant strains. Several species were used in managing pain associated with reproductive issues and may warrant investigations to authenticate their analgesic properties.