011279   Nath A J;Das G;Das A K (Ecology and Environmental Science Dep, Assam University, Silchar, Email: asheshdas@sancharnet.in) : Traditional knowledge base in the management of village bamboos: A case study in Barak Valley, Assam, Northeast India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 163-8.

Bamboos are the important component in the traditional land use systems of Barak Valley. The traditional practice of village bamboo management in the homegarden system was studied in the Cachar district of Barak Valley, Assam. Utilization of village bamboos for fulfilling basic rural necessitate supports the maintenance of village bamboo diversity. Traditional management of village bamboos has recognized the formation of certain societal groups that forms a complex interlinkage and generates rural employment. Traditional practice of moulding of soil around the clump, addition of leaf litter and farm yard manure to the bamboo clump is of practical importance and have scientific basis. Clear felling strategy of bamboo clump management for commercial utilization has severe effects on the clump growth parameters that can endanger the village bamboo productivity. Strategies to overcome the weaknesses of traditional management system are also discussed.

011278   Natanamurugaraj G;Ramalingam R;Senthil Kumar T;Muruganandam A;Muthu Kumar S;Jeyachandran S (NO, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College, Poondi-613 503) : Ecology and biodiversity of planktonic diatoms in Araslar estuary (Karaikal), southeast Tamilnadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 49-58.

Seasonal variations of planktonic diatoms with special reference to abundance and distribution in relation to various physico-chemical characteristics-temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, salinity and nutrients such as dissolved nitrate, reactive silicate and total phosphorus reactive were studied from Arasalar estuary for a period of two years from January 2005 to December 2006. The maximum diversity of diatom species was recorded in the summer season in April, whereas the minimum was recorded in the postmonsoon season in Fuburary. The dominant species were Amphora coffeaeformis, A. avails, A. macilenta, Diploneis bombus, Mastogloia dolosa, M. decipiens, Nitzschia seriata, N. obtusa and Pleurosigma angulatum.

8 illus, 1 able, 51 ref

011277   Narain S;Mishra S (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : List of aquatic and marshy plants of Bundelkhand region of Uttar Pradesh. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 301-8.

Deals with an account of aquatic angiosperms of Bundelkhand region. The plant specimens of aquatic and marshy plants were studied from Duthie herbarium of Botany Department of Allahabad University, Allahabad belonging to four Districts of Bundelkhand region i.e. Banda (including Chitrakoot), Jalaun, Lalitpur and Hamirpur (including Mahoba). In all 179 species belonging to 97 genera and 49 families have been recorded. Out of these 30 species were not reported in Flora of Upper Gangetic Plain (Duthie, 1903-1923).

1 table, 7 ref

011276   Narain S;Kanchan Lata;Juhi Singh (Duthie Herbarium. Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : New species of Blumea DC. (Asteraceae) from Uttar Pradesh, India. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 443-6.

A new species of Blumea viz. Blumea sonbhadrensis (Asteraceae) is collected from the Sonbhadra of Uttar Pradesh in India, is described and illustrated.

2 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

011275   Nambiar G R;Raveendran K (P.G. Studies and Research in Botany Dep, Sir Syed College, Taliparamba-670 142) : Marine and manglicolous fungal diversity in the coastal wetlands of Kerala. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 107-11.

Wetlands, the most important biologically productive ecosystem on earth, support wide variety of organism. Study the marine mycoflora of coastal wetlands of Kerala. A total of 61 marine fungi were obtained including 42 Ascomycetes, 2 Basidiomycetes and 17 Duteromycetes. Nine species were found common to all the coastal water bodies. Beach habitat supported maximum marine fungal diversity (44) while pokkali filed minimum diversity (23).

1 table, 9 ref

011274   Nagarani N;Kumaraguru A K (Centre for Marine and Coastal Studies, Madurai Kamaraj Univ, Madurai-625 021) : ROS scavenging and lipid peroxidation activities in selected seaweeds and seagrass from gulf of Mannar. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 221-5.

The free radical scavenging and antioxidant activity in the marine algae Sargassum wightii, Ulva lactuca, Chondrus cripus and seagrass Syringipodium isoetifolium were assessed. The inhibition of lipid peroxidation and radical scavenging effect were studied to evaluate the antioxidant activity of extracts. All the four species showed antioxidant activity towards the reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as hydroxyl ion, superoxide anion and nitric oxide. On solvent fractionations, the 70% methanolic extracts of all samples showed higher antioxidative activity than other extracts. The TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances) inhibitory effect was less in seagrass Syringipodium isoetifolium (0.66μmol/g) compared to that of the three species of marine algae which showed 1.2,2,1.5 μmol/g respectively.

3 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

011273   Naganathan V;Eswaran E;Ganesan M;Patterson Edward J K (Gulf of Mannar Biosphere Reserve Trust, , Ramanathapuram-623 504) : Nutrient analysis of economically important seaweeds in southeast coast of Tamilnadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 19-23.

Study was made on the macro and micro nutrients in some selected economically important seaweeds occurring in the southeast coast of Tamilnadu. Five species of green algae viz., Ulva lactuca, Ulva reticulata, Halimeda macroloba, Enteromorpha compressa and Codium adharens, six species of red algae viz., Gelidiella aerosa, Gracilaria edulis, Gracilaria corticata, Kappaphycus alvarezii, Acanthophora spicifera and Hypnea valentiae and five species of brown algae viz., Hormophysa triqeutra, Turbinaria conoides, Padina gymnospora, Pocockiella variegate and Sargassum wightii were selected for the estimation of carbohydrate, protein, lipid, minerals and electrolytes. The red alga K.alvarezii was found to be rich in carbohydrate (18.5%) and protein (16.0%). Halimeda macroloba of green alga had the maximum concentration of iron content (20 mg/g). The highest concentration of phosphorus among the selected seaweeds was found in the brown alga Hormophysa triqeutra (33 mg/g). The richest source of calcium (170 mg/g) and magnesium (100 mg/g) was found in the brown alga Turbinaria conoides. The present study reveals that K. alvarezii is highly nutritious than other species, because it contains good amount of carbohydrate (18.5%), protein (16.0%), iron (6.0%), calcium (100 mg/g), phosphorous (20 mg/g), magnesium (70 mg/g), sodium (70 mg/g) and potassium (157 mg/g).

1 table, 12 ref

011272   Murugesan M;Balasubramaniam V (P G & Research Dep of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College, Coimbatore-641 029) : Ambrosia artemissifolia L. (Asteraceae) - a new record for the flora of southern India. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 461-2.

Ambrosia artemissifolia L. (Asteraceae) collected from Velliangiri hills, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. India is described with illustrations as a new record for Southern India.

1 illus, 4 ref

011271   Murugesan M;Balasubramaniam V (PG and Research Dep of Botany, Kongunadu Arts & Science College, Coimbatore-641 029) : Rare, endemic and threatened angiosperms of Velliangiri hills in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 309-14.

Velliangiri hills in Coimbatore District of Tamil Nadu form a portion of the Western Ghats. Floristic diversity assessment study was conducted in the study area, which resulted in the collection of 1200 species of Angiosperms out of which 19 species viz., Elaeocarpus munronii, E. recurvatus, Crotalaria longipes, C. priestleyoides, Medinella malabarica, Hydrocotyle conferata, Vanasushava pedata, Hedyotis swertioides, Ophiorrhiza brunonis, Psychotria johnsonii, Anaphalis beddomei, Vernonia travancorica, Smilax wightii, Disporum leschenaultianum, Brachycorythis iantha, Coelogyne nervosa, Habenaria richardiana, Fimbristylis kingii, F. uliginosa are rare and endemic to Southern Western Ghats.

2 illus, 8 ref

011270   Murugan C;Chithra V;Murthy G V S (Botanical Survey of India, Southern Circle, Coimbatore-641 003) : Two additions to the asteraceae (Compositae) of India. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 449-50.

Cyanthillium hookerianum (Arn.) H. Rob. and Vernonia pectiniformis DC. subsp. puncticulata (DC.) Grierson (Astefaceae) are reported for the flora of India from the Southern Western Ghats. Short descriptions with illustrations and other details are provided here.

2 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

011269   Mishra M;Ramesh Chandra;Rajesh Pati (Central Institute of Sub-tropical Horticulture, , Rehmankhera, Lucknow-227 107, Email: maneeshmishra.cish@gmail.com) : In vitro regeneration and genetic fidelity testing of Aegle marmelos (L.) Corr. plants. Indian J Hort 2008, 65(1), 6-11.

A rapid and foolproof method of clonal micropropagation of bael has been developed using axillary shoot apices from mature bearing tree. Two to three cm long nodal shoots having one axillary bud excised from 10- 15th nodal region of shoots gave quick in vitro bud burst when cultured on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/l kinetin. A high frequency shoot proliferation was achieved on same medium fortified with 3.0 mg/l BAP. The micro-shoots were rooted on MS medium supplemented with 25 mg/l IBA. The rooted plants were hardened on autoclaved coconut husk containing 1/2 MS nutrient solution and 1 mg/l paclobutrazol under mist house. The hardened plants are being evaluated under field condition. The micropropagated plants were tested for its genetic fidelity using 12 RAPD, 2 micro-satellite and 2 mini-satellite primers. Profile obtained by all the three single primer amplification reaction (SPAR) technique obtained from mother tree and micropropagated plants were found identical which suggests the genetic uniformity of micropropagated plants with that of mother tree.

7 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

011268   Mehra T S;Raina R;Chandra P;Chandra P;Chand R (Forestry Dep, Dolphin Institute of Biomedical & Natural Sciences, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Effect of pollination methods on seed yield and colchicine content in glory lilly (Gloriosa superba L.). Indian For 2008, 134(4), 549-53.

Medicinal properties of Gloriosa superba, a perennial herb reproducing both by seed and tuber, are due to presence of colchicine in its seeds and tubers. The weak stemmed aerial part is annual which dries off after setting seed. Harvesting its tubers for medicament leads to destructive harvesting. Using seeds for drug purposes (with higher colchicines content as compared to tuber) has the advantage of annual harvest and also avoiding destructive harvesting. However, seed production under natural condition is quite low and uneconomical. It has been found that seed setting in the species is pollen limited. Results obtained have revealed that although the species is both self as well as cross compatible but seed setting is significantly influenced by pollination methods used. Controlled selfing between different flowers on the same plant have given significantly higher seed setting as compared to other methods tried. There was considerable increase in number of seeds produced per capsule (42.26) and dry seed weight per plant (1.13 g). It is suggested that for increasing seed set different flowers on the same plant should be selfed (Gnetonogamy) at stigma receptive stage.

1 table, 7 ref

011267   Mathews G;Diraviyaraj K;Patterson Edward J K (NO, Suganthi Devadason Marine Research Institute, 44-Beach Road, Tuticorin-628 001) : Seagrass abundance in Manoli island of the gulf of Mannar, southeast of India. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 59-65.

The Gulf of Mannar is gifted with vast seagrass beds which are mainly distributed on both seaward and shoreward sides of the 21 islands. The present study on seagrasses was carried out in the Manoli, Mandapam Group of islands of the Gulf of Mannar in September 2006 to assess the percentage cover of overall seagrass beds and each species biomass and the average shoot density. 50 cm x 50 cm quadrate divided into 25 squares (10 cm x 10 cm) was used for the study with SCUBA gear. The overall percentage cover of seagrasses around Manoli Island was 31. Thalassia hemprichii was the dominant species (51 %), followed by Halodule uninervis (20%). Biomass was high for Thalassia hemprichii with 109 g/m² dry weight followed by Syringodium isoetifolium with 67 g/m² dry weight. Average shoot density was also high for Thalassia hemprichii with 112 number of shoots (m²) followed by Halodule uninervis with 53 number of shoots (m²).

7 illus, 14 ref

011266   Mathew B I J U;Varghese M T;Subramoni M (Centre for Algal Biotechnology, Mar Athanasios College for Advanced Studies, Tiruvalla-689 101) : Ethonobotany of algal resources of southwest coast of India. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 269-71.

Ethnic knowledge from various parts of the world have been reported regarding medicinal properties of marine algae, taking into consideration the traditional knowledge of mankind. The vast diversity of marine algae in India provides immense scope to explore and identify the ethnic uses of marine algae. The present work aims to explore the ethnic knowledge of the fishing communities living in the southwest coastal belt of India.

1 table, 13 ref

011265   Manickam V S;Kalidass C (Center for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, st. Xavier's College, Palayamkottai, Tamilnadu) : Note on twin seedlings in Filicium decipiens thw. (Sapindaceae), an important ornamental tree species. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 441-2.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

011264   Mahadevan N;Shivali;Kamboj P (Pharmacognosy Dep, ISF College of Pharmacy, Moga-142 001) : Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn.-An overview. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(1), 77-83.

Hibiscus sabdariffa Linn. is an annual herbaceous shrub, cultivated for its flowers although leaves and seeds have also been used in traditional medicine. The calyces of the plant are used as a refrigerant in the form of tea, to make jellies and jams. The plant is reported to contain proteins, fats, carbohydrates, flavonoids, acids, minerals and vitamins. The plant has been reported to have antihypertensive, hepatoprotective, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer and antioxidant properties. The present paper is an overview on its phytochemical and pharmacological properties reported in the literature.

011263   Luna R K;Sharma A;Sehgal R H;Rakesh Kumar; Gupta K (Chief Conservator of Forests, Working Plan, M & E and Research, Chandigarh) : Bioefficacy of drek (Melia azedarach) seeds against red pumpkin beetel, Aulacophora foveicollis Lucas (Coleoptera : Chrysomelidae). Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 357-360.

Red pumpkin beetle Aulacophora foveicollis is a serious pest of cucurbitaceous vegetables. It feeds on the leaves of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus), Ridge gourd (Luffa acutangula) Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata). Bottlegourd (Langeneria siceraria) etc. Ethanol extract and aqueous extract of Drek (Melia azedarach) seeds was tested against this pest on Cucumber in Punjab. Ethanol extract 1% and aqueous extract 3% were found effective in managing this pest. These were found to be at par with commercial formulations of Neem (Azadirachta indica) viz. Econeem and Nimbecidine in the field trials in managing the insect, in another trial ethanol extract 4ml/l was found to be at par with Econeem against red pumpkin beetle on Cucumber. Kidgegourd and Bottlegourd. As seeds of Melia azedarach are found in considerable quantities, the study has a great scope foi promotion of seeds of Melia azedarach as biopesticide.

4 tables, 2 ref

011262   Kumar G;Tripathi R (Plant Genetic Laboratory. Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Email: kumar_girjesh@yahoo.com) : Induced cytomictic variations through abiotic stresses in grasspea (Lathyrus sativus L.). Indian J Genet Pl Breed 2008, 68(1), 58-64.

Cytogenetic study was undertaken to evaluate various types of cytomictic variations induced by different types of abiotic stresses viz. temperature, heavy metal (Pb) and water stresses on the meiotic cells of Lathyrus sativus L. Chromosome transfer and cytoplasmic channels between microsporocytes occurred from prophase-l to telophase-II stages of meiosis. The occurrence of cytomixis and other meiotic abnormalities were analyzed in comparison with pollen fertility. Due to cytomixis, various types of irregularities were noticed resulting into hypo- or hyperploids which may cause the origin of aneuploids or polyploids.

2 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

011261   Krishnamurthy V (NO, Krishnamurthy Institute of Algology, 52-A, AK Block, 7th Main Road, Anna Nagar, Chennai-600 040) : Algal flora of Krusadai island - it's past status and present decay. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 13-17.

Krusadai Island was once a favourite spot among biologists, both for it's algal vegetation and for other flora and fauna. Over the years, there has been a steady degradation of its fIora and fauna. From a high biodiversity of it's algal flora, reflected in one collection by the author of more than two hundred and fifty species, it has now been reduced to a great degree. A research station established on the island more than eighty years back, has not been functioning on the island for nearly three decades now. A comparison is made between the flora on the island in the mid-twentieth century and the existing flora. The causes of the floristic degradation and whether the island's ecology could be restored to its past glory are discussed.

1 table, 2 ref

011260   Kingston C;Jeeva S;Jeeva G M;Kiruba S;Mishra B P;Kannan D (Post Graduate Studies & Research Centre in Botany, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003, Email: d_kannan@ettimadai.amrita.edu) : Indigenous knowledge of using medicinal plants in treating skin diseases in Kanyakumari district, Southern India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 196-200.

Plant species used in the treatment of skin diseases among the indigenous communities of Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu was conducted between 2003-2004. Thirty plant species belonging to 29 genera and 22 families were found to be used specifically in the treatment of various 11 skin diseases viz., dandruff, eczema, impetigo, leprosy, parasite, psoriasis, rash, scabies, swellings, tinea cruris and tinea versicularis. The communities use 9 plant species invariably for the treatment of all kinds of skin diseases while 4 species are exclusively used to treat leprosy. Saraca asoca plant becomes vulnerable since it is frequently used for the treatment of scabies.

011259   Khanna K K;Anand Kumar (Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002) : Endemism in the flora of Madhya Pradesh. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 451-4.

The paper deals with the status of endemic plants in Madhya Pradesh. An analysis has indicated that 12 taxa are endemic in the state, out of which 4 taxa are endemic in Hoshangabad district, 3 in Betul District, 2 in unreported locality of Central Province and one each in Balaghat. Tikamgarh and Ujjain Districts. The nature and causes of endemism and their conservation have been discussed.

1 illus, 25 ref

011258   Kalita D;Bonoranjan P (NO, , NEER, Sishu Kalyan Kendra Path, Lachit Nagar, Dibrugarh-786 001) : Folk medicines used by the Moran of Brahmaputra valley, Tinsukia district, Assam, India. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(1), 73-6.

It is well known that from the time immemorial large numbers of plant species are used by the mankind for the treatment of different kinds of diseases. The herbal folklore of the Moran of Tinsukia District of Assam is very rich hence, an attempt has been made to study and document uses and methods of applications of various plants for different diseases. During present study treatment of 10 diseases namely acidity, anemia, blood poisoning, constipation, diabetes, gout, rheumatism, piles, stomach pain and tetanus were paid attention and noted medicines applied to cure them. A total number of 19 such medicinally important plant species are reported.

011257   Joshi G;Thapliyal R C;Phartyal S S;Nayal J S (Tree Improvement and Propagation Div, Institute of Wood Science and Technology (ICFRE), Malleswaram, Bangalore, Karnataka) : Morphological and physiobiochemical changes in Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. seed during its development. Indian For 2008, 134(4), 563-73.

To determine the developmental stage at which the seed quality was maximum, Dalbergia sissoo pods were harvested at different periods from 15 to 255 days after anthesis (DAA). Pod and seed length, width, fresh weight, dry weight, moisture content, germination, colour and nitrogen, calcium, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus content were recorded. Maximum dry weight and minimum fresh weight was attained at 210 DAA the stage of mass maturity. Physiological maturity in seeds of Dalbergia sissoo was attained 240 days after anthesis (DAA), when the pod and seed turned light brown in colour and attained maximum germination percentage and minimum moisture content.

7 illus, 33 ref

011256   Jha B N;Choudhary S K (Post Graduate Department of Botany, S.K.M. Univ, Dumka-814 101) : Biochemical analysis of Andrographis paniculata used in diabetes in santal parganas, Jharkhand. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 449-53.

Andrographis paniculate is locally known as Kalmegh or Chiraita. It is a member of family Acanthaceae. Andrographis paniculata is very useful for the diabetic patients in tribal locality of Deoghar and Banks district. The stems and leaves of this plant are dipped in drinking water in the night and taken in empty in the morning. Biochemical analysis of this medicinal plant has been discussed in the text in detail.

1 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

011255   Irene Wilsy J;Reginald M;Helen Diana Y (Botany and Research Centre Dep, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Phytoplankton abundance in solar salt production at Thamaraikulam, south Tamilnadu. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 93-6.

Environmental factors play a major role in shaping the plankton community. Microbenthic algal consortia are organized in multilayered structures that cover the surface of illuminated submerged substances with biofilm. Diatoms commonly constitute the dominant group of algae in salt pan biofilm. Bacillariophyceae are represented by a large number of species and play a fundamental role in salt production.

3 tables, 21 ref

011254   Habibur Rahaman C;Ghosh A;Mandal S (Botany Dep, Visva-Bharati Univ, Santiniketan-731 235) : Ethnomedicinal uses of plants by the tribals of Birhum district, West Bengal. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 71-8.

The Present paper deals with the observations on ethnomedicinal uses of plant wealth by the Santhal tribals of Birbhum district, West Bengal. This district was selected for investigation, as the tribals here are mainly depend upon the forest flora for their livelihood and use herbal medicines in curing the ailments and diseases. Altogether 49 plants were recorded which are used by the tribals in formulation of 30 different ethnomedicinal preparations for curing 23 different types of diseases and ailments. Many of these ethnomedicinal preparations are new, as they have not been recorded earlier in standard literatures. Among the 30 ethnomedicinal uses, 20 are administered in the form of single drug in eczema, dysentery, rheumatism, bone-fracture, jaundice, stomach pain, etc. In 10 cases, compound drug preparations are used in dyspepsia, diarrhoea, cancer, menstrual irregularity, dysentery, ear pain, etc. Of the total 49 plants involved, materials of 42 plants are collected by the tribals from the wild, 4 from cultivation and 3 from commercial sources. The data of this study have been presented in a tabular form providing the botanical and tribal names of the plants, parts used, mode of administration, names of ailments and diseases, field number, locality of collection, etc. Some noteworthy medicinal plants which are used in curing the diseases are -Aristolochia indica, Azadirachta indica, Gymnema sylvestre, Mimosa pudica, Cassia occidentalis, Cuscuta reflex a, Cyperus rotundus, Streblus asper, Terminalia arjuna and Polygonum hydropiper.

4 tables, 29 ref

011253   Gopalan R;Murugan C (Botanical Survey of India, Southern Circle, Coimbatore-641 003) : Pavetta badullensis Ridsd. (Rubiaceae)-a Sri Lankan element and addition to india from western ghats of Tamilnadu. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 447-8.

Pavetta badullensis Ridsd. (Rubiaceae) is. a Sri Lankan element and so far restricted to Sri Lanka, a new distributional record for India from the Southern Western Ghats of Tamilnadu. For the easy identity and further collection in field, a short description with an illustration and other details are provided here.

1 illus, 2 tables

011252   Gopalakrishna Bhat K (Taxonomy Research Centre. Botany Dep, Poornaprajna College, Udupi-576 102) : Oxygonum sinuatum (Hochst. & Steud. ex a rich.) dammer (Polygonaceae) - a new record for Karnataka. Indian J For 2008, 31(3), 455.

Oxygonum sinuatiim (Hochst. & Steud. ex A. Rich.) Dammer (Polygonaceae). an exotic species so far reported in India only from Kerala, is reported as a new record for Karnataka.

2 ref

011251   Garg V K;Tomar D S (NO, College of Agriculture, Ganj Basoda, Distt Vodosha, Madhya Pradesh) : Preferential feeding of bark eating caterpillar, Indarbela quadrinotata (Walker) on horticultural and forest plant species. Indian For 2008, 134(4), 579-80.

^ssc1 table, 3 ref

011250   Ganesapandian S;Kumaraguru A K (Government Higher Secondary School, , Pudumadam-623 514) : Seaweed resource in the intertidal and subtidal regions of Pudumadam, gulf of Mannar. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 97-105.

Seaweed resource occurring in the intertidal region of Pudumadam was studied. Totally 29 species of algae were recorded of which 9 species belong to Chlorophyceae, 9 species to Phaeophyceae and 11 species to Rhodophyceae. The total biomass of Rhodophyceae was 2197.2 g/m², Chlorophyceae was 667.6 g/m² and Phaeophyceae was 376.7 g/m². All the 29 species collected are listed and their economic importances is given.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

011249   Ganesan S;Ponnuchamy M;Kesavan L;Selvaraj A (Centre for Research and PG Department of Botany, Thiagarajar College (Autonomous), Madurai 625 009, Email: sganesan76@yahoo.com) : Floristic composition and practices on the selected sacred groves of Pallapatty village (Reserved forest), Tamil Nadu. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 154-62.

Field studies on floristic composition and ethnobotanical practices of the sacred groves of in and around Pallapatty village, Madurai district of Tamil Nadu were undertaken. A total of 133 plant species belonging to 113 genera distributed among 51 families were recorded. The mode of mythical and therapeutic uses and conservation practices of these plants by the local people has been discussed.

011248   Choudhary J V K;Upadhyaya R P (University Department of Boatny, T.M. Bhagalpur Univ, Bhagalpur-812 007) : Population dynamics of Commelina benghalensis populations in view of genomic DNA. Indian J Envir Ecoplann 2008, 15(1-2), 445-8.

Four populations of Commelina benghalensis were screened thoroughly in terms of various biological parameters including genome size. Analysis revealed that variation level among three populations CBI, CBII & CBIII) has shown very thin range of molecular divergence. The fourth population (CBIV) however, appeared to be polyploid race with remarkable divergence both as macro & micro levels. This fastens pace of evolution which may eventually lead towards a new species the moment it acquires reproductive isolation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

011247   Chandra Sekar K;Srivastava S K (NO, , Botanical Survey of India, Western Circle, Pune-411 001) : Three new plant records for India from pin valley national park, Himachal Pradesh. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 291-3.

Three species viz., Aconitum bhutanicum Yuchi Kadota, Taraxacum lanigerum van Soest and T. ludlowii van Soest have been described as new records for India from Pin Valley National Park, Lahaul-Spiti, Himachal Pradesh.

8 ref

011246   Bhattacharjee A;Bhakat R K (Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Pollinarium morphology of some Indian members of subtribe Goodyerinae klotzsch (Orchidaceae). Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 295-8.

Critical studies conducted on the pollinaria of 20 species of the subtribe Goodyerinae Klotzsch (Orchidaceae) have revealed that the pollinarium structure is an important character for distinguishing different species of the subtribe Goodyerinae. Based on the pollinarium characters, an artificial key and a photo plate of the pollinaria is provided for easy identification of these species.

1 illus, 2 ref

011245   Barbhuiya A R;Sharma G D;Arunachalam A;Deb S (Forestry Dep, Mizoram University, Aizawl-769 009, Email: arbarbhuiya@gmail.com) : Diversity and conservation of medicinal plants in Barak valley, Northeast India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 169-75.

Through an ethnobotanical survey of Barak-valley, about 150 naturally growing and frequently used medicinal plants were collected. Out of these collections, 24 plant species have been highly prioritised for conservation. Among these, population of Acorus calamus Linn., Aegle marmelos Linn., Artocarpus lakoocha Roxb., Costus speciosus (Koem.ex.Retz) Sm., Rauvolfia serpentina (L.) Benth.ex Kurz., Tinospora cordifolia (Willd.) Miers., etc are reducing day-by-day due to over-exploitation for medicinal purposes, felling for timber, etc. and also due to inherent poor natural regeneration. During the exploration, emphasis was given on herbal treatment for everyday common ailments and diseases, particularly used by the local tribes of Barak-valley such as Riang, Kachari, Hmar, Rongmai Naga, and Manipuri and Teagarden community. The study gives an account on the diversity of medicinal plants and priority medicinal plants for conservation. The study also warrants an herbal policy to address public awareness, cultivation and conservation on a sustainable basis with in the environmental protection regime.

011244   Banuselvi R;Raju P N (NO, Shri AMM. Murugappa Chettiar Research Centre, Taramani, Chennai-600 113) : Bioactive potential of marine macroalgae. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 263-8.

This paper comprises a comparative assessment of the bioactive potentials of three common seaweeds occurring at Leepuram coast with reference to their antimicrobial, mosquito larvicidal (Culex quinquefaciatus) and antioxidant properties. Different solvent systems (petroleum ether, acetone, chloroform:methanol 2:1 v/v and methanol) were used to check the efficacy in extraction of the active compounds. Methanol extracts of Valoniopsis pachynema registered the maximum activity against Staphylococcus aureus (human pathogen) and Xanthomonas oryzae (plant pathogen) and Sargassum ilicifolium exhibited higher activity against Corynebacterium sp. Petroleum ether extracts and acetone extracts were highly active against mosquito larvae than chloroform:methanol and methanol extracts. Petroleum ether extracts of Valoniopsis pachynema and acetone extracts of Laurencia obtusa and Sargassum ilicifolium showed higher larvicidal activity. Antioxidant potential was evaluated by determination of enzyme content. Valoniopsis pachynema recorded maximum catalase activity and Sargassum ilicifolium registered the maximum glutathione reductase activity. Laurencia obtusa was high in glutathione peroxidase activity.

2 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

011243   Bandyopadhyay S;Mukherjee S K (Botany Dep, K.N. College, Berhampore, Murshidabad-742 101) : Wild edible plants of Koch Bihar district, West Bengal. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(1), 64-72.

Koch Bihar, a district of North-eastern part of the state of West Bengal, is inhabited by Rajbanshi or Koch tribe which constitutes about 40% of total population of the district. The other tribal communities are Kheria, Oraon, Rabha and Santhal. Most of them are village dwellers and depend on plant or plant products to maintain their livelihood. Ethnobotanical field studies reveals that the ethnic people as well as the other inhabitants of the district have considerable traditional knowledge of wild edible plants and their utilization. During the field study 125 plant species belonging to 102 genera under 54 families have been recorded which are commonly used by the ethnic communities and other inhabitants as wild edible.

011242   Ballabh B;Chaurasia O P (Field Research Lab, Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO), Leh-Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir) : Medicinal plants of cold desert Ladakh used in the treatment of stomach disorders. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2009, 8(2), 185-90.

Deals with 57 plants species belonging to 24 families used in the treatment of stomach disorders by the Boto (the Buddhists) tribal community of Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir state. Plants parts used in the treatment of stomach disorders along with methods of preparation, dose of administration and duration of treatment is described. The traditional practitioners are called Amchis in Ladakh and the traditional medical system is principally based on Tibetan System of Medicine. The local people of the region still rely on traditional systems of medicine for curing stomach disorders and more than 60% tribal population is dependant on herbal remedies.

011241   Asir Selin Kumar R;Sobitha Bai R (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Botany, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Effect of aqueous extracts of seaweed and seagrass on amylase activity in Zea mays L. var. Pioneer. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 259-62.

The effect of aqueous extracts of Spyridia hypnoides and Syringodium isoetifolium on the activity of enzyme a - amylase and β - amylase in Zea mays was studied upto the senescence. The enzyme activity increased gradually upto the 12th day and then decreased upto the 18th day both in seaweed liquid fertilizer and seagrass liquid fertilizer. The lowest concentration (10%) of both seaweed and seagrass extracts showed remarkable effect on Zea mays than higher concentrations. Further, the general trend of increase and decrease in the enzyme activity was much more pronounced in SGLF treated seedlings than that with SLF.

4 tables, 13 ref

011240   Asir Selin Kumar R (Post Graduate and Research Dep of Botany, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Effect of Syringodium isoetifolium extract on pigment and protein contents in Oryza sativa during senescence. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 117-21.

The effect of seagrass liquid fertilizer from Syringodium isoetifolium on the chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and protein contents in Oryza sativa was studied. Treatment with 10% seagrass liquid fertilizer promoted chlorophyll and protein contents than at higher concentrations and control. These biochemicals increased gradually upto 20th day and then declined upto 35th day during senescence both in control and treated plants.

4 tables, 23 ref

011239   Arulmurugan P;Natanamurugaraj G;Senthilkumar T;Muruganandam A;Ramalingam R;Muthu Kumar S;Jeyachandran S (P.G. and Research Dep of Botany and Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi-613 503) : Seasonal variation in hydrography and diversity of seaweeds at Kodiakkarai coast and muthupet lagoon. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 25-33.

Marine algae were collected at monthly intervals from Kodiakkarai coast and Muthupet lagoon for one year from January to December 2006 and physico-chemical parameters such as temperature, pH, salinity, dissolved oxygen, nitrate and total phosphorus were analysed. The maximum number of species were recorded in summer and minimum in postmonsoon season at both localities. Ulva, Enteromorpha, Chaetomorpha, Cladophoropsis, Caulerpa, Ectocarpus, Dictyota, Sargassum, Turbinaria, Gelidiella, Jania, Gracilaria and Hypnea were observed as dominant genera.

8 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

011238   Ansari A A (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Circle, Gangtok-737 103) : Padus cornuta (wall. ex royle) carr. Integrifolia (Ghora & Panigrahi) ansari (Rosaceae)-a new combination. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 321.

3 ref

011237   Anitha A;Balamurugan R;Swarnakumar N S; Sivakumar K;Thangaradjou T (Biochemistry Dep, Vivekananda College of Arts and Sciences for Women, Elayampalayam, Tiruchengode-637 205) : Evaluation of seaweeds for biochemical composition and calorific content. Seaweed Res Utilis 2008, 30(spl), 197-202.

Seaweeds are chlorophyll bearing primitive plants, though the name suggest this as a weed in reality it has vast potential to substitute them with our regular diet. Most of the East Asian countries are traditionally using seaweeds as one of their regular diets. Many literature also show that the seaweeds have considerable quantities of essential nutrients especially minerals and vitamins required for human health. Considering the importance, in the study an attempt was made to assess the biochemical composition of seaweeds viz. Turbinaria conoides, Sargassum wightii, Gracilaria corticata, G edulis, Gelidium pusillum and Hypnea musciformis collected from Mandapam coast. The biochemical constituents namely protein (0.22-2.92 mg g^-1), carbohydrate (0.30-0.65 mg g^-1), lipid (0.65-1.57 mg g^-1) and free amino acid (0.72-1.49 mg g^-1) varied in these seaweeds. The calorific value varied between 12.08 and 27.46 k cal and the order of dominance of calorific content was as follows- G corticata < G. edulis < S. -wightii < T. conoides < G. pusillum <H. musciformis.

5 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

011236   Agrawala D K;Sabapathy C M (NO, , Botanical Survey of India, Northern Circle, 192-Kaulagarh Road, Dehra Dun-248 195) : Malaxis cylindrostachya (Lindl.) Kuntze (Orchidaceae): a new record for West Bengal. Indian J For 2008, 31(2), 285-6.

Maluxis cylindrostuchya (Lindl.) Kuntze is described as a new orchid record for the flora of West Bengal.

1 illus, 2 ref

010269   Wu X;Prior R L (Physiology and Biophysics Dep, Arkansas for Medical Sciences Univ; 1212 Marshall Street, Little Rock, AR 72202, USA, Email: wuxianli@uams.edu) : Anthocyanins: analysis and distribution in selected medicinal plants. Asian Chem Lett 2008, 12(1-2), 9-22.

Anthocyanins are water soluble plant secondary metabolites responsible for the blue, purple, and red color of many plant tissues. They have been shown to be strong antioxidants, and may exert a wide range of health benefits through antioxidant or other mechanisms. Anthocyanins occur primarily as glycosides of their respective aglycone anthocyanidin-chromophores. Aglycones are rarely found in fresh plant materials. Methods of analysis and identification of anthocyanins have varied from thin layer chromatography (TLC) and paper chromatography (PC) in early times to high performance liquid chromtography (HPLC) with photodiode array detection (PDA) [also called a diode array detector (DAD)], and then, to HPLC in tandem with mass spectrometry (LC-MS). Over 600 naturally occurring anthocyanins have been reported and they are known to vary in: 1) the number and position of hydroxyl and methoxyl groups on the basic anthocyanidin skeleton; 2) the identity, number and positions at which sugars are attached; and, 3) the extent of sugar acylation and the identity of the acylating agent. Due to the important physiological roles they play in both pollination and seed dispersal, anthocyanins mainly distributed in skin of fruits and flower petals. Many medicinal plants contain anthocyanins. Anthocyanins may contribute in part to bioactivities of these medicinal plants. Literature search using PubMed and SciFinder (1950-2007), anthocyanins in 34 medicinal plants were summarized and presented.

4 illus, 2 tables, 78 ref

010268   Vijayakumar B S;Avinash U;Sharma R;Lyer G (Biosciences Dep, Sri Sathya Sai Univ, Prasantinilayam, Anantapur District, Andhra Pradesh) : New species of hyphomycete from Vengalamma-Cheruvu forest area of Puttaparthy Mandal, Anantapur district, A.P.. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 465-6.

One new species of hyphomycete, a pathogen and a new host record on royal palm namely Drechskra puttaparthii sp.nov. collected on the infected leaf of royal palm from the Vengalammacheruvu forest area of Puttaparthy mandal, Anantapur District, A.P. from South India is described.

2 illus, 5 ref

010267   Verma R K;Jishtu V;Kapoor K S;Surinder Kumar (NO, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Conifer Campus, Panthaghati, Shimla-171 009) : Plan diversity in alpine pasture of Talra wildlife sanctuary of district Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. Indian J For 2008, 31(1), 13-18.

Studies to evaluate the plant diversity and growth forms in alpine pasture of Talra Wildlife Sanctuary of District Shimla, Himachal Pradesh were carried out during August, 2003. Total 75 species of plant, comprising of 7 grasses, 4 sedges, 4 leguminous forbs and 60 non-leguminous forbs were recorded from the area. On the basis of Importance Value Index (IVI). Sibbaldia cuneata O. Ktze., was found to be the dominant species followed by Geum elatum Wall ex D.Don., Ligularia amplexicaulis DC., Primula denliculata Smith and Saxifraga parnassifolia D.Don. The distribution of all the plant species was contagious. Index of dominance was 0.036 and index of diversity 5.386. The contribution of tall forbs, short forbs and cushioned and spreading forbs in the alpine pasture was 29.33%, 54.66% and 16.0% respectively.

1 table, 22 ref

010266   Tyagi V;Joshi B (Biosciences Dep, Dolphin Institute, Dehradun, Email: mkumaiyan@yahoo.com) : Analysis of vegetation in Banj-oak and Chir pine forest in Central Himalaya. Ecol Envir Conserv 2008, 14(2-3), 281-92.

In Himalaya, an elevation transect includes vegetation from tropical monsoon forest to alpine meadows and scrub, constituting an unusually extensive elevational and vegetation gradient. Extensive oak and conifer forest characterize the Himalaya moist temperate forest extending from 1500- 3000 m in Western and Central Himalaya. The study site was located between 29°19' and 29°24' lat. N and 79°19' and 79°26' long. E. along an elevational transect of 1200-2000 m in Central Himalaya. This altitudinal range encompasses major forests of Central Himalaya. The present study was taken up to understand the floristic composition, pattern of distribution and diversity in two major forest types (Chir pine and Banj-oak) of Central Himalaya. Both tree and herb diversities were clearly lower in pine forest than Banj-oak forest. Across the forest types, the species richness and the diversity were higher at the mesic aspect than that of xeric aspect. However, even in the pine forest the mesic aspect supported a sizeable diversity. Across the location, the species richness and diversity were generally higher at the hill base followed by mid-slope and hill top. Favourable effect of moisture on species was reflected in its higher value in the mesic aspects and at the hill base. Across the forest types, the species diversity was low and comparable with temperate forests.

5 tables, 38 ref

010265   Tikader A;Dandin S B (NO, Central Sericultural Germplasm Resources Centre, Hosur-635 109) : Foliar morphology and venation pattern in different mulberry (Morus spp.). Indian J For 2008, 31(1), 77-84.

The morphological features are the basis of taxonomic identification of Mulberry species. The leaf morphology and venation pattern have been described in 4 Indian Mulberry species i.e., M. indica, M. alba, M. laevigata and M. serrata of the family Moraceae. The median strand joined and formed the mid rib, which extends into secondary in the opposite of both sides of lamina. The veins turned into a dense reticulum. The overall venation is reticulate with marked diversity in the mode of ramification. The development of areole showed variation in different species. The leaf size of Morus species varied and a wide range i.e., M. indica (120.00 - 234.00 cm²), M. alba (168.00 - 253.00 cm²), M. laevigata (204.00 - 480.00 cm²) and M. serrata (168.00 - 272.00 cm²). Number of strands ending into petiole is more or less similar in all species, which ranges from 3-5 but the venation pattern is thick in case of M. laevigata and M. serrata. The areole number/mm² varies from 1.54 - 5.20 and areole size from 0.18 - 0.65/mm² in different species. The areole number is higher in M. laevigata and M. serrata and lower in M. indica and M. alba. The leaf morphological characters, the foliar venation pattern, areole formation, number of veins ending into petiole and veins/areole are the important features for identification of different Morus species at the vegetative stage. The minor venation, which ramifies into lamina also indicates the leaf quality i.e., palatability to silkworm.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

010264   Thakur M K;Chauhan R (Regional Horticultural Research Station, , Bajaura, Kullu-175 125) : Growth performance of seven tree species in Riverain area of north western Himalaya. Indian J For 2008, 31(1), 53-5.

The growth performance of 17 years old seven tree species namely Salix tetrasperma, Robinia pseudoacacia, Alnus nitida, Populus deltoides, Eucalyptus tereticornis, Pinus roxburghii and Dalbergia sissoo was evaluated in riverain site of Kullu valley of Himachal Pradesh. The growth performance of these tree species were recorded in the order of Populus deltoides > Alnus nitida > Salix tetrasperma > Eucalyptus tereticornis > Robinia pseudoacacia > Pinus roxburghii > Dalbergia sissoo. The species like Populus deltoids, Alnus nitida, Salix tetrasperma and Eucalyptus tereticornis are more suitable for plantation along the river basin of Kullu valley as they exhibited high growth under such conditions.

1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref