040567   SINGH A, BIJAKAL B S, SINGH A (Forestry and Natural Resources Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana - 141 004, Email: avtar3@pau.edu) : Effect of seed priming on germination of Acacia nilotica. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 134-7.

The effects of season and seed priming with chemicals on seed germination of Acacia nilotica was assessed with ten treatments of 3 primers and 3 concentrations and one control (soaking in water). The result shows that germination percentage, mean daily germination, peak value germination value and germination energy was significantly influence by sowing seasons, different chemical primers and concentrations as well. The maximum germination percentage and germination peak value was observed in KCl 10 Mmole, which was at par with KCl 5 Mmole and KCl 15 Mmole, CaCl₂ 5 Mmole, CaCl₂ 10 Mmole, CaCl₂ 15 Mmole, hydro-priming and minimum for NaCl 5 Mmole (51 %) irrespective of seasons, which was statistically inferior to other treatments.

1 table, 16 ref

040565   CHATURVEDI P, VERMA P, SAGAR R, VERMA H, KUMAR K (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi - 221 005, Email: sagar@bhu.ac.in) : Validation of carbon contents in different traits and components of herbaceous species from tropical grassland. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 123-8.

Because of global climate change events; the quantification of carbon (C) present in different species from diverse ecosystems are urgently needed. Study evaluated the performances of different methods used for the C estimation in different plant components and traits by comparing with harvest method. For this, 117 herbaceous species just-before flowering were harvested from the campus of Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. Across the components, the mean C contents (g plant^-1) varied between 0.33 for roots of procumbent and 7.93 for shoots of native trait categories. On g m^-2 basis, it ranged from 29 (roots) to 85 (shoots). Similarly across the components, the mean C: B ratio ranged between 0.41 (roots) and 0.44 (shoots). The linear relationship between C and B had high correlation coefficient, low standard error of estimate together with low discrepancy in extrapolation compared to the other models. Hence, compared to other models, the linear equation could be used in C estimation. Further among all the estimators; at the species, component and functional group levels, the mean C: B (0.43) ratio of the entire herbaceous species resulted as an accurate estimator of the C. Because of its simplicity and low discrepancy, the mean C: B (0.43) ratio seems to be reasonable to estimate the C content based on the known biomass. Stems of perennials, erects, leguminous and native plants had greater C than the others. Thus, the perennial, erect, leguminous and native herbaceous species could be an alternative for reducing the atmospheric C in the tropical grasslands.

2 illus, 2 tables, 49 ref

040564   BEHERA M C, LACHUNGPA O, MOHANTY T L (OUAT, Bhubaneswar, Odisha - 751 003, Email: madhab32@gmail.com) : Impact of fly ash on germination and initial seedling growth of Leucaena leucocephala (lam.) de wit. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 117-122.

Impact of fly ash (FA) on germination and initial seedling growth performance of Leucaena leucocephala (Lam.) de Wit was studied during 2016-2017. Substrate was prepared by admixing FAto forest soil (S) at five concentrations viz.20 %, 40 %, 60 %, 80 % and 100 % (w/w). The experimental design was CRD with six treatment and three replications. Eighteen hundred freshly collected seeds were treated with hot water and sown at 0.5-1.0 cm depth in germination trays containing substrates of different treatments. Significant (P<0.05) variation in germination (G.) period, G. rate, G. capacity and G. Index with respect to FAconcentration in growing media was observed (n=100).G. period was reduced by 5.67 days in 20 % fly ash admixed growing media (FAAGM) over control (S). Maximum G. rate (88.67 %), G. value (18.47) and G. index (1.58) were found in 20 % FAAG Mafter 30 days of sowing. Observations pertaining to growth dynamics were recorded at 90 days after transplanting (DAT). Significant difference (P>0.05) in seedling survival rate, plant height, diameter growth, nodules per plant and seedling quality index were observed. The survival rate (91.83 %) and root nodule number was (7.20) was maximum at 20 % FAAGM. But plant height (51.68 cm), diameter growth (3.96 cm) and seedling quality index (0.706) were attained maximum at 40 % FAAGM. It is concluded form the present investigation that FA can be admixed @ 20 % (w/w)in forest nurseries for improving germination and @40 % (w/w) for promoting seedling growth and quality improvement.

1 illus, 3 tables, 40 ref

040563   YEN H P H, HA N T V, PHAM B T, PRAKASH I, MANH L V, DUNG N T T, MANH P B Q, TUYEN T T (Transport Technology Univ, Hanoi 100000, Vietnam, Email: binhpt@utt.edu.vn; ttt.dhv@gmail.com) : Ecosystem services in mountainous area: A case study of nghe an, Vietnam. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 109-16.

Astudy was carried out in the mountainous Western area of Nghe An province, Vietnam, which is a forested area inhabited by ethnic minorities for payment for forest environment services with focus on watershed protection and carbon sequestration services. Remote sensing - GIS methods were used to map forest area for biomass assessment. In addition, the method of determining the level of payment for forest environmental services was used to calculate the Pu Hoat natural reserve. The study shows that there is great potential for the development of forest ecosystem services in the study area, which can contribute significantly to improve the livelihoods of indigenous people besides protecting/enriching forest capital. A number of practical solutions to improve the good implementation of forest environmental services have been proposed for the study area, which can also be applied in other areas. This research has highlighted the practical benefits of the Forest (environmental) Payment Service (FPS) and pointed out the shortcomings that need to be addressed.

7 illus, 11 tables, 28 ref

040562   KUMAR S, SHARMA S B, NONGRUM M M, SINGH T P, KUMARI N, ROZAR K P (Forestry Dep, Mizoram Univ, Aizawl - 796 004, Email: baleshwor_shiija@rediffmail.com) : Effect of pre-sowing treatments on the germination of five legume species and their tolerance to desiccation. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 102-8.

Two Experiments were conducted to understand the suitable pre-treatment methods to know the germination behaviour of five selected legume species (Albizia thompsonii, Calopogonium mucunoides, Crotalaria micans, Tephrosia candida, Albizia procera) and their desiccation tolerance. Pre-treatments given were control (no treatment), mechanical scarification (seed coat cutting), H₂SO₄ (97 %) for different durations (30 sec, 5 min, 15 min and 30 min) and heat scarification 60°C (9, 19 and 24 hours) and 80°C (4, 19 and 24 hours). Out of the 11 pre-treatments tested, conc. H₂SO₄ and mechanical scarification provided significant results in all the five species. Mechanical scarification provided maximum germination (96.25 %) of C. micans while, conc. H₂SO₄ treatment for 30 min provided maximum germination of T. candida (97.50 %). Seeds of all species were dried down to the target moisture contents (TMC) of 9, 7, 5, 3 and 2.5 per cent using silica gel for the second experiment to study the effect of seed desiccation on viability of these seeds. The viability of C. mucunoides reduced to 80 per cent at 3 per cent TMC while for T. candida, it was 75 per cent at 5 per cent TMC. In addition, the viability of both the species reduced greatly when dried below 3 per cent TMC. Both species i.e. C. mucunoides and T. candida took 37 days to reach the set TMC of 2.5 per cent using silica gel drying.

1 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

040559   SIDHU R S, SINGH N P, SINGH S, SHARDA R (Fruit Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana -141 004, Email: navpremsingh@pau.edu) : Foliar nutrition with calcium nitrate in strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa duch.): Effect on fruit quality and yield. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 87-91.

Study investigates the effect of pre-harvest calcium nitrate sprays on the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of 'Winter Dawn' strawberries (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.). Strawberry fruits were sprayed with different doses of Calcium nitrate (0.2 %, 0.4 %, 0.6 % and 0.8 %) under field conditions. In comparison tothe control, foliar nutrition with Ca(NO₃)₂ significantly improved fruit quality and yield related parameters. Calciumnitrate (0.4 %) registered the highest total soluble solids (TSS), total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and -1 ascorbic acid content over the other treatments and the control. Moreover, maximum fruit size, weight and yield plant was also obtained with Ca(NO₃)₂ at 0.4 per cent. Supplementary calcium feeding played a significant role in enhancing fruit firmness by imparting strength and thickness to fruit cell wall. Therefore, it is intended that foliar feeding Ca(NO₃)₂ at 0.4 % is the most effective to extend the qualitative and quantitative characteristics of 'Winter Dawn' strawberries.

3 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

040558   BAGHERI S, MORADI P, NEMATOLLAHI F, ZARINNIA V, ABDOSSI V (Horticultural Sciences Dep, Islamic Azad Univ, Saveh, Iran, Email: moradip786@gmail.com) : Investigating green synthesis of silver nanoparticles from orange peel (Citrus sinensis) and the effects of chitosan, sylamol, nanosilver on Rhizopus stolanifer in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 82-6.

This research was carried out in order to synthesize green nanoparticles of orange peel extract and its effect on Rhizopus stolanifer control in tomato at Islamic University of Tehran Research and science branch. Silver nanoparticles were successfully prepared from orange peel. Size 8-21 and spherical shape was determined by using TEM and XRD. The effect of chitosan, sylamol, aqueous extract and silver nanoparticles was investigated with different concentrations in the response of tomatoes inoculated with Rhizoctonia stolanifer. This experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design with three levels of chitosan, sylamol, aqueous extract and silver nanoparticles (10, 20 and 30 mg/ L) and with three replications. Measurement of traits was carried out at 4, 1, 3, 7, and 11 days. The growth of -1 Rhizopus stolanifer was affected by increasing treatments levels. Results indicated that 30 mg l of silver nanoparticles had the highest inhibitory effect.

6 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

040557   SHERE P D, SAHNI P, DEVKATTE A N (MITADT Univ, Pune, Maharashtra, Email: ftech.sahni@gmail.com) : Quality evaluation and storage stability of spinach puree enriched instant noodles. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 77-81.

Instant noodles were prepared by adding spinach puree at 0,10,20,30,40 and 50gm puree per 100 gm flour. The noodles were evaluated for its various quality characteristics viz. cooking quality, proximate constituents and sensorial characteristics; followed by evaluation of its storage quality during the storage of 12 months. The cooking time was reduced drastically with addition of spinach puree in noodles. The cooking loss and swelling index decreased progressively with increase in level of puree in composite flour. Cooking weight increased linearly, protein and fat remained unchanged, whereas ash and fiber increased, and carbohydrates were decreased with increase in level of spinach puree in noodles. The sensory quality with respect to colour, texture and overall acceptability of noodles were improved. Noodles with 40gm puree per 100 gm flour scored highest. The results pertaining to storage studies revealed that moisture content increased significantly and progressively during storage of 12 months in LDPE and HDPE. However, increase in moisture content was more pronounced after 6 months. Peroxide value and free fatty acids were increased marginally during storage in both LDPE and HDPE and the values were within the prescribed limits. There was no yeast and mould growth during 6 months of storage in both the packages. The total plate count increased with increase in the moisture content and it was more pronounced in LDPE as compared to HDPE pouches. The microbial load was well within the tolerable limits during storage.

2 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

040556   LADON T, CHANDEL J S, VERMA P (Fruit Science Dep, Dr Y S Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni - 173 230, Email: tanzinldn92@gmail.com) : Epicotyl grafting: A new method for propagation in walnut (Juglans regia l.). Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 72-6.

Walnut is very difficult to propagate and its multiplication is mainly done in the open field conditions, which generally takes two to three years for production of grafted nursery plants. For rapid multiplication of walnut plants, the present study was conducted in polyhouse conditions to standardize the method and time of epicotyl grafting with three methods of epicotyl grafting viz. cleft, wedge and tongue performed on 15,30 and 45-days-old epicotyls. The cleft grafting done on 15-days-old epicotyls gave highest percentage of bud-sprouting (94.66 %), followed by wedge grafting which resulted in 90 per cent success. The highest total linear growth, scion girth and leaf area were produced by wedge method performed on 15-days-old epicotyls. On the basis of two years study, it is concluded that wedge method of grafting on 15-days-old epicotyls is recommended for commercial multiplication of nursery plants of walnut in a year under protective conditions.

5 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

040555   GUPTA N, BANDRAL J D, SOOD M, BHAT A (FST Div, SKUAST, Jammu - 180 009, Email: neeruguptapht@gmail.com) : Preparation of osmo-dried peel sticks from galgal. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 68-71.

An experiment was conducted at Division of Food Science and Technology, SKUAST-Jammu during the year 2017-2018 to prepare osmo-dried peel sticks from galgal peel. The osmo-dried galgal peel sticks were made by using different treatment combinations i.e. dipping concentration of sugar and jaggery solution of 30, 40 and 50⁰ Brix. The osmo-dried galgal peel sticks were stored for 3 months and the chemical and organoleptic changes were recorded at an interval of one month. The maximum values of TSS and ascorbic acid of 54.02⁰ Brix and 120.05mg/100g.However, with an advancement of storage period an increasing trend was observed in TSS but decreasing trend in titratable acidity, moisture, ascorbic acid and caroteniods during three month of storage. Treatment 50⁰ Brix with sugar showed maximum value (8.19)of overall acceptability during storage. After completion of three months storage period, treatment T₃ : 50⁰ Brix with Sugar was more acceptable in comparison to the other treatments.

3 tables, 18 ref

040545   SINGH M, PARIKH P (Botany Dep, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univ, Baroda - 390 002, Email: meenakshisingh24@gmail.com) : Freshwater diatoms as bio-indicators in urban wetlands of central Gujarat, India. Indian J Ecol 2020, 47(1), 7-11.

The current study attempts to understand the diatom community structure and their role as bio-indicator in the urban wetlands of central Gujarat. The remarkable variation in the composition and distribution of various diatom species were observed. A total of 26 diatom species distributed among 16 genera, highlights rich biodiversity of the region. Among all, high count of certain diatom species namely Nitzschia palea, N. amphibia, N. gracilis, Pinnularia biceps, Navicula radiosa, N. lanceolata, N. cryptocephala, N. obtusa, Gomphonema parvulum, G. olivaceum, Synedra ulna, S. acus, Amphora ovalis, Eunotia lunaris and Stephanodiscus hantzschii were key indicator diatom species. Only pennate diatoms were present at Manjalpur wetland which is highly polluted and eutrophic in nature. Mesotrophic conditions at Harni wetland and Gotri wetland represented dominance of pollution tolerant species. Bhaily wetland is the least polluted among studied wetlands and showed highest diversity of pollution sensitive diatoms. These results provided insights into the ecological importance of endemic diatoms found in urban ecosystems.

3 tables, 26 ref

040465   MANASA P, SRIDHARAN T B (Biotechnology Dep, Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT), Vellore - 632 014, Email: cto@bcxbiorganics.com,) : Reduction of polyphenolic exudation and enhancement of hardening efficiency in pomegranate tissue culture plants. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 140-7.

Punica granatum is one of the world’s nutritious fruit, tolerating high drought. Bacterial blight is being an obstruct in the export of pomegranate from India. In the present study, a rigorous and efficient protocol for micropropagation of pomegranate plantlets is developed which can replace traditional plant breeding practices. Antioxidants controls polyphenolic exudation in micropropagation. For the first time, this report accomplishes to control polyphenols by modifying medium constituents. Woody plant (WP) medium containing benzyl-amino-purine (BAP) and kinetin (both at 1.5 mg l^-1) exhibited high bud break of about 99 %. Further, it gave highest number of shoots of about 6.36 ± 0.22 with the length 6.12 ± 0.31 cm in multiplication stage. Shoots were successfully rooted in WP medium containing indole butyric acid (IBA) 1.5 mg l^-1 with 5.62 ± 0.17 roots. This research emphasizes to preliminarily harden plant lets in vitro prior to hardening using innovative technique with increase in gelling strength and by creating nutrient competition. Nutrient stressed plants have a higher survival rate of 98 % and water stressed plants have a survival rate of 96 % when compared to conventional method. Therefore, mass propagation of pomegranate plants is possible to meet the demand of farmers in procuring disease-free plantlets.

4 illus, 7 tables, 23 ref

040461   PATWA N, KUMARI V, BASAK J (Biotechnology Dep, Visva-Bharati Univ, Santiniketan - 731 235, Email: jolly.basak@visva-bharati.ac.in) : Identification of new strain of mungbean yellow mosaic virus infecting french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) in Santiniketan. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 113-7.

Outbreak of yellow mosaic diseases emerged during 2017 in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) growing region of Santiniketan, Bolpur, West Bengal, India. Yellow mosaic disease was characterized by bright yellow mosaic spots on leaves. Amplification of an expected 598 bp DNA band has been done by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using primers specific to Santiniketan coat protein (AV1) gene (HQ221570.1) of mungbean yellow mosaic India virus (MYMIV). Comparison of sequences obtained from PCR products with corresponding nucleotide sequences in GenBank, confirmed association of causative agent with mungbean yellow mosaic India virus. Nucleotide sequence analyses of MYMIV- Santiniketan isolates of French bean showed high sequence similarities (> 95 %) with others isolates present world-wide. A close relationship of coat protein gene isolate of Santiniketan with DNA-A of Pant Nagar, Uttarakhand (DQ389152.1) of mungbean yellow mosaic India virus has been established on phylogenetic tree analysis. This report provides an evidence of MYMIV infections in French bean in Santiniketan.

3 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

040460   GUPTA A, SAWANT S V, YADAV H K (CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow - 226 001, Email: h.yadav@nbri.res.in) : Assessment of phenotypic developmental traits and hybrid vigour in Arabidopsis thaliana. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 102-12.

The Don-0 and Col-0 ecotypes of Arabidopsis thaliana showed significant phenotypic diversity for several quantitative traits. The phenotypic data taken on hybrid derived from Col-0 x Don-0 and parental lines provides the information of their continuous developmental pattern throughout the life cycle. The developmental data exhibits heterosis for most of the traits (specifically biomass related traits) due to supplementary genetic contributions of both parents. Consequently, the hybrid was found to be more vigorous in comparison to both the parents in terms of all the traits except yield trait. Moreover, higher and lower performance of hybrid causes due to constructive (hybrid vigor) and deleterious epistatic interactions of loci (necrosis: hybrid incompatibility), respectively. The present study also concluded that Don-0 is a slow growing, delayed flowering and high biomass containing ecotype. The shoot and root biomass at initial stage was found to be less in Don-0 than the Col-0 but high at maturity. The present investigation provides the preliminary information which could be utilized for future genetic studies to understand the heterotic phenomenon in Arabidospsis.

5 illus, 48 ref

040459   JAGDISH M, KOUNDAL K R (ICAR- National Research Centre on Plant Biotechnology, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: kirparamkoundal@gmail.com) : Constitutive expression of protease inhibitor gene isolated from black gram (Vigna mungo L.) confers resistance to Spodoptera litura in transgenic tobacco plants. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 94-101.

Plant insecticidal proteins like protease inhibitors have been reported to confer insect resistance in transgenic plants. We have cloned a protease inhibitor gene of black gram (Vigna mungo L.) and developed transgenic tobacco plants expressing the protease inhibitor constitutively under the 35S promoter by Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated genetic transformation. A full-length open reading frame (ORF) of 545 nucleotides codes for a serine protease inhibitor protein with a deduced sequence of 180 amino acids contributing to a predicted molecular mass of 20.2 kDa. The Vigna mungo protease inhibitor (VmPI) is basically a Bowman-Birk type proteinase inhibitor (BBI) of double headed type; family of plant serine protease inhibitors that block trypsin or chymotrypsin. Comparison for conserved domain in the protein by National Centre for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) conserved domain (CD) search showed that the regions from 113-168 amino acid residues have the conserved domain of which 9 residues compose reactive loops on the conserved domain of BBI. The transgenic tobacco plants developed were confirmed by Southern, northern hybridization, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcriptase-PCR (RT-RCR) analysis. When transgenic T₁ tobacco plants were analyzed for insecticidal bioassays, the larval growth of Spodoptera litura, the tobacco cutworm was found severely retarded as compared to their growth on control plants. Therefore, black gram protease inhibitor could be used as an alternative individually or in combination with other insecticidal genes for the development of insect-resistant transgenic crop plants.

4 illus, 35 ref

040458   MESHRAM S, GOGOI R, BASHYAL B M, KUMAR A, MANDAL P K, HOSSAIN F (Plant Pathology Div, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi - 110 012, Email: r.gogoi@rediffmail.com) : Expression analysis of maize genes during Bipolaris maydis infection and assessing their role in disease resistance and symptom development. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(2), 82-93.

Bipolaris maydis causing maydis leaf blight (MLB) is an aggressive fungal pathogen of maize. The present study focused on the responses of certain defence genes in the resistant and susceptible maize inbred lines viz., SC-7 and CM 119, respectively, against MLB and symptom development in the host. Biochemical activity of the PR protein β-1, 3-glucanase and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) assay, with total chlorophyll content was recorded for both the inbred lines before and after pathogen inoculation. Gene expression was studied by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at different time intervals post inoculation. Differential expression pattern was observed even at the same time point in both the inbred lines. Enhanced expression of the pathogenesis related (PR) protein and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) enzyme at different time points in resistant lines indicated their association with infection stages of B. maydis and response of the resistant line against disease establishment. Down regulated gene expression of pheophytinase suggests reduced enzyme activity linked with less chlorophyll degradation in the resistant line compared to the susceptible line. This fact directly correlates with symptom development of MLB disease. The present study thus revealed that the expression of defence related genes is aligned with developmental stages of the pathogen to restrict its growth and gene expression of constitutive genes also changes differentially during the disease development in resistant and susceptible lines.

9 illus, 6 tables, 38 ref

040456   GROZEVA S, NANKAR A N (Breeding Dep, Maritsa Vegetable Crops Research Institute (MVCRI), 32 Brezovsko Shosse Str, 4003 Plovdiv, Bulgaria, Email: stanislava_grozeva@abv.bg ) : Effect of incubation period and culture medium on pepper anther culture. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(1), 53-9.

Recurrent surge in demand of multipurpose peppers have positively encouraged pepper breeding community to study diverse aspects of pepper genetics, physiology, breeding and biotic stresses, however research on application of anther culture in pepper is still limited. Current study was aimed to assess the in vitro androgenic response of two prominent Bulgarian pepper varieties in five different duration times (12, 14, 16, 18 and 20 days) on incubation period and regeneration mediums containing kinetin (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 mg L^-1) and combination of zeatin (0.25 mg L^-1 0.5 mg L^-1) and indole acetic acid (IAA) (0.1 mg L¹). Experimental results indicated specific requirements for composition of culture medium and duration time depending on genotype. Prolonged anthers incubation on induction medium had a positive effect on embryo formation and their conversion into plantlets compared to regeneration medium variants. Highest number of embryos and plant-regenerants of variety Stryama was achieved after 18 days incubation period and medium variant containing 0.1 mg L^-1 kinetin. Embryo induction in variety Zlaten Medal 7 was higher after 16 days and control medium without plant growth regulators, while regeneration at 20 days also on control medium variant.

3 illus, 3 tables, 46 ref

040451   SIHMAR M, SHARMA J K, SANTAL A R, SINGH N P (M. D. Univ, Rohtak - 124001, Haryana, Email: npsinghcbt@gmail.com) : Seed storage protein phylogenetics of Indian wheat genotypes belong to Triticum aestivum, T. dicoccum and T. durum. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(1), 17-27.

Genetic diversity analysis of eighty six Indian wheat genotypes was performed using sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel (SDS-PAGE) electrophoresis based on their total seed storage protein. A dendrogram was constructed using the genetic similarity coefficient matrix based on SDS-PAGE, which categorized these genotypes according to their electrophoretic patterns into eight different clusters. These eighty six genotypes studied here belong to three different species of wheat. Out of these eighty six genotypes, two genotypes belong to T. dicoccum; eleven belong to T. durum and the remaining seventy three belongs to T. aestivum. In the dendrogram, all the eleven genotypes of the species T. durum (A-9-30-1, HD-4672, RAJ-1555, PDW-233, PBW-34, HI-8381, PDW-291, WH-896, PDW-215, HI-8498 and MACS-2846) were grouped in one cluster. The pedigree analysis of genotypes showed similar parentage with the electrophoretic profiling of the different wheat genotypes. From this study, it has been concluded that the total seed storage protein profile of wheat can be used as a marker for genetic diversity.

2 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

040450   MANI T, MANJULA S (Plant Disease Biology Div, Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Biotechnology, Trivandrum, Kerala, Email: smanjula@rgcb.res.in) : Cloning and analysis of promoter elements of a Ser/Thr protein kinase gene homologue from Piper colubrinum Link.. Indian J Biotechnol 2020, 19(1), 9-16.

Serine/Threionine (Ser/Thr) protein kinases are multifarious phosphorylation enzymes which also play a central role in signalling events following pathogen recognition in plants. The present study describes cloning and characterisation of upstream promoter region of a Ser/Thr protein kinase (STPK) gene from Piper colubrinum (PcSTPK), a wild species highly resistant to fungal pathogens in the Piper germplasm. The gene was found to be pathogen responsive when challenged with oomycete pathogen – Phytophthora capsici. Transcript abundance of PcSTPK was determined by quantitative real time-polymerase  chain reaction (qRT-PCR) which demonstrated maximum transcript accumulation of PcSTPK in inflorescence, followed by leaf, stem and root tissues. Inoculation of leaf tissues with the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora capsici, also induced significant transcript accumulation of PcSTPK in the plant. Genome walking methodology was adopted to clone upstream promoter elements of PcSTPK. In silico analysis revealed the presence of regulatory elements for light responsiveness, meristem and endosperm expression in addition to various hormone responsive elements. Our results suggest that PcSTPK along with its cis-regulatory elements has a role in modulation of plant stress response.

3 illus, 1 table, 55 ref

040444   HUO J, ZHAO Z, HUA Z, FAN J, DU J, GUO B (Burn and plastic surgery Dep, Fourth Military Medical Univ, Xi'an-710 038, Shaanxi Province, China, Email: guobo365@sina.com) : Evaluation of Juglans regia L., root for wound healing via antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2020, 57(3), 304-11.

The burden of the management of problematic skin wounds characterized by a compromised skin barrier is growing rapidly. There is an urgent requirement for efficient mechanism-based treatments and more efficacious drug delivery systems. The present study was aimed to examine the wound healing potential of Juglans regia L. root (JR) in rats by incision and excision wound methods via the anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. We have used tensile strength and biochemical parameters for studying the wound healing properties of JR by incision wound methodology. The anti-inflammatory effect was assessed by the measurement of paw edema in carrageenan-induced inflammation in rats. The wound contraction area, antioxidant status, and antimicrobial studies were exhausted excision wound methodology. There was a significant decrease in percent inhibition of paw edema (0.63 ± 0.03 to 0.33 ± 0.02 after 24 h) with an increase in JR concentration. Tensile strength and hydroxyproline level of different concentrations (1, 2.5, 5, and 10 % w/w) of JR ointment treated groups were found significantly (P <0.001) comparable to the reference group. Moreover, JR showed significant antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, by its ability to increase antioxidant and antimicrobial levels. In conclusion, the overall results obtained in this study clarify that JR inhibits paw edema and accelerates cutaneous wound healing.

6 tables, 35 ref

040441   SYAMALADEVI D P, BISWAL B (ICAR-Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad-500 030, Telangana, Email: dpsdevi@gmail.com) : Structural insights on Sucrose transport by Oryza sativa L. Sucrose/H⁺ Symporter1 (OsSUT1) through refined sequence - template alignment based structural modelling. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2020, 57(3), 283-90.

Sucrose/H⁺ Symporters (SUTs) play an important role in plant growth and yield. They are involved in long - distance transport of sucrose from source leaves to filling grains of cereals through a process called phloem loading. However, the molecular mechanism of sucrose transport through SUTs is not yet known. Understanding the key residues involved in sucrose transport can be helpful in developing high yielding varieties through genetic engineering, gene editing or allele mining. Here, the molecular model of OsSUT1 developed based on refined target-template alignment using Modeller software provides structural insights on the sucrose transport mechanism. We propose 13 putative sucrose binding residues and 11 putative H⁺ binding residues involved in sucrose/H⁺ co-transport in OsSUT1.

7 illus, 3 tables, 45 ref

040424   AKOUEDEGNI C G, ADENILE A D, OLOUNLADE P A, AHOUSSI E, HAMIDOU H T, HOUNZANGBE-ADOTE M S (Animal Production Dep, Abomey Univ, 01 BP 526, Cotonou, Benin Republic, Email: coovi.akouedegni@fsa.uac) : Lactogenic effects of the leaf’s powder of Spondias mombin L. on West African Dwarf (WAD) sheep performance and serum prolactin level in Republic of Benin. Indian J Anim Res 2020, 54(2), 254-8.

Twenty four (24) dairy ewes at the 4^th stage of lactation were used to assess the milk production and serum prolactin level of ewes treated with leaf’s powder of Spondias mombin. The lactating ewes were selected and divided into 4 groups of 6 ewes per group: control group (no fed powder of Spondias mombin), Galactin group (no fed powder of Spondias mombin but treated with lactogenic drug) and groups treated with powder of Spondias mombin (group single dose and group double dose). The parameters measured include daily milk production, body weight of lambs and ewes. The resulted outcomes indicate that ewes that received powder of S. mombin and Galactin produced more milk than controls. The average daily increases in milk production were 9.92 %, 14.25 % and 18.88 % in single dose, double dose and Galactin groups, respectively compared to control group. Lamb weight gain was also significantly higher than that in the control group. The treatments did not influence body weight of ewe. The daily weight gain of 93.12; 97.47; 99.07; 86.76 g/day were found in single dose, double dose, Galactin and control groups, respectively. The results of the blood analysis of hormone showed that serum prolactin levels increased in the group treated with powder and Galactin compared to control group.

3 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

040414   KAUR Y, DHAWAN A, NAVEENKUMAR B T, TYAGI A, SHANTHANAGOUDA A H (Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana-141 012, Punjab, Email: shanthanagouda@gmail.com) : Immunostimulatory and antifertility effects of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract on common carp (Cyprinus carpio Linnaeus). Indian J Anim Res 2020, 54(2), 196-201.

180-day feeding trial was conducted on the growth performance, feeding efficacy, immunological parameters and gonadal reproductive parameters of common carp, Cyprinus carpio fed with neem (Azadirachta indica) leaf extract (NLE) incorporated at different levels (0, 0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 g kg^-1 feed) in rice bran and mustard meal (1:1 ratio) basal diet. The study revealed highest Net Weight Gain (NWG) in fish fed on NE 1.0 g kg. Results showed that the good growth response was obtained in fish fed with the NLE 1.0 g kg^-1 feed and least in fish fed only on basal diet (without NLE). Whereas, higher gonado-somatic index (GSI), relative fecundity and ova diameter values were obtained from fish fed on basal diet while the least were observed from fish fed only on basal diet, while the least value was fish fed with NLE 1.0 g kg^-1 feed. Fish fed with NLE 1.0 g kg^-1 feed also showed significantly (p<0.05) enhanced phagocytic activity ratio, Phagocytic index, NBT activity, CAT, SOD, GPx and GR responses in comparison with fish fed only on basal diet, where as LPO is significantly decreased on being fed with NLE up to 1g kg^-1 feed. The study indicated that incorporation of NLE in feed improved growth, delayed female gonadal maturation and could be used as a potential immunostimulant and to control the prolificbreeding of C. carpio in aquaculture.

3 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

040392   GADICHERLA V, CHALLA S R, RAO M V B, RAMAKRISHNA P, KUMAR K P (Pharmacology Dep, Sri Indu Institute of Pharmacy, Ibrahimpatnam-501 510, Andhra Pradesh, Email: sivareddypharma@gmail.com) : Protective effect of Fragarria ananassa and Vaccinium corymbosum fruit extracts against L-arginine induced acute pancreatitis in rats. Indian J Anim Res 2020, 54(1), 74-82.

The study was aimed to evaluate the protective effects of alcoholic extracts of Strawberry and Blueberry fruits [AESF and AEBF] in acute pancreatitis in rats. Treatment groups received AESF and AEBF at doses of 200 and 400 mg/kg for 7 days with prior injections of L-arginine on 5^th day. Biochemical parameters were estimated in serum and pancreatic tissue samples. Histopathological studies and DNA fragmentation assay were carried out in isolated pancreatic tissue. The results of the study indicated that treatment of AESF and AEBF exhibited a significant dose dependent protective effect. Upon the treatment, anti-oxidant enzymes were significantly (*p<0.05) increased. Biochemical results were correlated with the histopathological findings. In addition, the DNA fragmentation assay showed an intact DNA in pancreatic cells of treated groups. In conclusion, berry fruit extracts exerted a potential protective effect against L-arginine induced damage in rat pancreas, at least in part, due to its antioxidant properties.

2 illus, 3 tables, 56 ref

040367   SINGH A D, DEBNATH C, CHAUDHURI S, BISWAS R, BARUA R, SAMANTA I, MANDAL G P (Veterinary Public Health Dep, West Bengal Univ of Animal and Fishery Sciences, Kolkata-700 037, West Bengal) : Studies on some phytoextracts for their antifungal activities against Microsporum canis. Indian J Anim Hlth 2020, 59(1), 45-9.

Dermatophytes are responsible for a majority of superficial fungal infections. They are distinctive from other pathogenic fungi in their ability to use keratin as living. They can sustain in different ecosystems that added in their morphological and ecological range with high flexibility to changing environmental conditions. Lately, Microsporum canis has evolved as a resistant pathogen against several antifungals and has been in the focus of interest for causing outbreaks and epidemics in humans from domestic animals. The increasing evolution of resistance, therapeutic failures, and reduced number of available drugs stimulated to investigate therapeutic alternatives by using some commonly available plants empirically used for their antifungal properties. Likewise, the present study reports the in vitro antifungal efficacy of crude as well as fractionalized extracts with different solvents of Ficus racemosa leaves (L.), Cassia fistula L. and Nerium oleander L. Antifungal activity was evaluated according to Clinical Laboratory Standards Institute (CLSI) protocol by determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC’s) values on a clinical isolate of M. canis that showed resistance to some commonly used antifungals. All crude phyto-extracts except Nerium oleander L. effectively inhibited the growth of M. canis. The methanolic extract of Ficus racemosa L. and Cassia fistula L. completely inhibited the fungal growth at a concentration of 2 µg/mL and 8 µg/mL respectively. These two phyto-extracts proved to have significant antifungal activity against common antifungal resistant M. canis isolate. Further studies with the identified plant parts through in vivo studies and pin-point isolation of the active compound may prove beneficial as an effective alternative therapy for the pathogen.

2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

040293   OBEROI H K, KAUR M (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana (Punjab), Email: harpreetoberoi@pau.edu) : Nitrogen uptake association with biomass yield and fodder quality attributes in Sorghum genotypes. Forage Res 2020, 46(1), 58-62.

The efficiency towards nitrogen uptake and its utilization may vary in different sorghum genotypes due to inherited biological nitrification inhibition potential. In this study, four sorghum single cut genotypes (SPH 1890, SPH 1891, CSV 30F and CSV 32F) were grown with three fertility levels (75 % RDF, 100 % RDF and 125 % RDF). The results revealed that higher the fertilization (125 % RDF) higher the biomass yield obtained with improved fodder quality parameters. Sorghum genotype CSV 32F had the highest green and dry fodder yield and it also had better digestibility in comparison to other genotypes. The highest nitrogen uptake was recorded in the genotype SPH 1891 which resulted in higher crude protein yield in this genotype but it noticed to have positive correlation with HCN (anti-nutrient) which is not desirable in livestock feed. In conclusion, use of 125 % RDF and the genotypes CSV 32F would enhance the fodder yield due to comparatively better nitrogen uptake ability and its significant positive correlation with fodder quality parameters and growth attributes.

1 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

040292   BORA S S, SHARMA K K, BORAH K, SAUD R K, BORGOHAIN L (KVK, Udalguri, Assam - 784 514, Email: saratsekharbora@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen levels and seed rate on quality of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) in Assam. Forage Res 2020, 46(1), 54-7.

A field experiment was conducted at the Instructional-cum-Research (ICR) farm, Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat (Assam) during 2016-17. The PRG-1 variety of ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum) was tested at three seed rates and four nitrogen levels. The experiment was laid out in split-plot design in three replicates. The treatments consisted of three different seed rates in main plot viz., 10, 15 and 20 kg/ha along with four nitrogen levels viz., 0, 30, 60 and 90 kg N/ha in subplots. Results revealed that seed rates and nitrogen levels significantly effects ryegrass quality parameters. A seed rate of 20 kg/ha was found to be statistically superior in regards to quality parameters in all the three cuts viz. 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd cut as compared to seed rate of 15 kg and 10 kg/ ha. The highest crude protein yield (6.21 q/ha) was obtained with seed rate of 20 kg/ha and was significantly superior to 15 kg/ha and 10 kg/ha. The crude protein content, crude fat content, crude fiber content of the ryegrass were also found to be significantly higher in seed rate of 20 kg/ha. In case of nitrogen levels application of 90 kg N/ha resulted in higher values in almost all the quality parameters. The highest crude protein yield (7.43 q/ha) was also obtained in 90 kg N /ha and was significantly superior to all other lower doses of nitrogen (60 kg and 30 kg N/ha). The crude protein content, crude fat content, crude fiber content of the ryegrass were also found to be significantly higher in nitrogen level of 90 kg N/ha.

1 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

040291   RAM B, JAKHAR S S, DIGAMBER, SATPAL (Seed Science and Technology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana), Email: bittunaigal14@gmail.com) : Effect of plant oil treatments and containers on seed quality of forage Sorghum. Forage Res 2020, 46(1), 48-53.

The present investigation was carried out at Department of Seed Science and Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar to assess the effect of plant oils treatments and storage containers on seed quality and storability in sorghum. The seeds of forage sorghum variety HJ 541 were treated with plant oils and stored in three containers. The two factor experiment comprising of ten different treatments including plant oils were given to seeds (T₀ – Untreated, T₁ - Castor oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₂ - Neem oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₃ - Aonla oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₄ - Til oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₅ - Linseed oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₆ - Karanj oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₇ - Akhrot oil @ 2 ml/kg seed, T₈ - Ajwain oil @ 2ml/kg seed, T₉ - Carbendazim @ 2 g/kg seed) and kept in different containers (C₁ : Cloth bag, C₂ : Polythene bag and C₃ : Metal box) under ambient conditions in laboratory in three replicates. All the treatment combinations were evaluated for seed quality parameters viz. germination, shoot length, root length, seedling dry weight and vigour indices (I and II). All the treatments showed better performance as compared to untreated control. The neem oil (2 ml/kg of seed) performed better than others and among containers polythene bag was proved better followed by metal box and cloth bag for storability at ambient condition. Seed quality parameters found decreased with the passage of time in all the containers and treatments with the progress of storage period.

6 tables, 23 ref

040290   ARYA R K, VANDANA, DAHIYA G S, JATTAN M, SUTALIYA J M, KUMAR R (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: rakarayogi@gmail.com) : Evaluation of chicory (Cichorium intybus) elite genotypes for seed yield under semi-arid conditions of Haryana. Forage Res 2020, 46(1), 40-3.

Present study was carried out by using 21 genotypes of chicory (Cichorium intybus) during Rabi 2017-18 and 2018-19 at Research Farm of MAP Section, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. The results on seed yield (kg/ha) revealed that the year 2018-19 was most favourable for seed yield (214.44 kg/ha) as compared to 2017-18 (188.81 kg/ha). During 2017-18, HCI-3 was highest yielder with seed yield (320.48 kg/ha) followed by HCI-16 (311.49 kg/ha), HCI-4 (284.29 kg/ha), HCI-19 (271.81 kg/ha) and HCI-20 (266.07 kg/ha). During 2018-19, HCI-16 with 318.49 seed yield (kg/ha) was the top performing genotype followed by HCI-3 (312.94 kg/ ha), HCI-1 (292.71 kg/ha), HCI-20 (235.16 kg/ha), HCI-5 (231.49 kg/ha) and HCI-14 (227.77 kg/ha). During 2017-18, the moisture stress during early stages of plant development restricted the plant growth and development which ultimately reduced the seed yield. The evaluation of genotypes over the years exhibited that HCI -3 (316.71 kg/ha), HCI-16 (314.99 kg/ha), HCI -4 (253.34 kg/ha), HCI -20 (250.62 kg/ha) and HCI-1 (248.94 kg/ha) were the promising genotypes and need further testing over time and space before giving recommendation for commercial cultivation.

2 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

040289   SINGH A, KUMAR M, SINGH A, TIWARI P (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut - 250 110 (Uttar Pradesh), Email: atars49@gmail.com) : Estimation of adaptability for physiological characters in oats (Avena sativa l.). Forage Res 2020, 46(1), 35-9.

Aim of present investigation was to assess genotype environment interaction and determine stable oat (Avena sativa L.) cultivar in central Uttar Pradesh under diverse environment for seed yield and its components in 25 genetically diverse genotypes using randomized block design with three replications during winter season of 2016 -17 and 2017-18 at Students Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur (U. P.) during rabi 2016-17 to 2017- 18. There was considerable variation in seed yield within and across environments. Stability analysis for seed yield was calculated to know the response to genotype × environment interactions. The mean squares due to G×E (linear) were significant depicting genetic differences among genotypes for linear response to varying environments. Mean squares due to pooled deviations were highly significant, reflecting considerable differences among genotypes for non-linear response. The genotypes were found common in majority of characters namely, CSOFSC12-2, CSOFSC11-5, ANDO1, OS344, OS1, SKO105, CSAOFSC14-6, JHO03-91 and JHO851. Considering all the characters and all the models of stability under study none of the test genotypes were found stable for all the traits however, six genotypes namely,CSOFSC12-2, CSOFSC11-5, CSOFSC11-4, ANDO1,JHO03-91 OS344, OS1 SKO105, CSAOFSC14-6,JHO2007-1 and JHO851 were found stable for maximum characters under all dates of sowing in present study. These genotypes would be useful for commercial exploitation or can be exploited as elite gene pool in future breeding programme.

3 tables, 6 ref

040281   CHATURVEDI K, SOLANKI N S, KADAM S S (Agronomy Dep, Rajasthan Coll of Agriculture, Udaipur (Rajasthan), Email: kavitachaturvedi294@gmail.com) : Effect of varieties and nitrogen levels on quality, nutrient content and its uptake by fodder oat (Avena sativa l.). Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 303-7.

A field experiment was carried out during rabi 2017-18 at Instructional Farm, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Udaipur with the objective to study the response of different fodder oat varieties to varying nitrogen levels. The experiment was conducted in factorial randomized block design. The treatments comprised of five varieties (Kent, JHO-851, JHO-822, JHO-99-2 and JHO-2000-4) and three nitrogen levels (80, 100 and 120 kg N/ha) with three replications. The soil of the experimental site was clay loam in texture with low in available nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and rich in potassium. The findings of the experiment indicated that variety JHO-99-2 recorded significantly higher crude protein, ash, ether extract and nitrogen free extract with low crude fibre content during both the cuttings. Similarly, application of 120 kg N/ha produced significantly higher crude protein, crude fibre, ash and ether extract content with less nitrogen free extract. The variety JHO-99-2 gave significantly higher NPK content and its uptake by fodder oat. NPK content and uptake by crop were increased significantly with increase in nitrogen levels and recorded maximum with the application of 120 kg N/ha at first and second cut.

3 tables, 17 ref

040280   AKSHIT, SHEORAN R S, LOURA D, SUNIL, SATPAL (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana), Email: sheoranrs@gmail.com) : Effect of potassium and boron fertilization on seed yield and its attributing characters in berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum l.). Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 298-302.

As berseem seed yield is responsive to potassium and boron fertilization and their interaction, so in order to find out their effect and relationship, a field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2017-18 at Forage Research Farm of CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar. Treatment combinations comprised of four potassium levels i. e. 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg K₂O/ha and four levels of boron i.e. 0, 2, 4 kg B /ha, and 0.2% B spray at flower initiation and at 50 % flowering stage. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. Maximum number of capsules/m² (328.10), seeds/capsule (56.43), biological yield (49.91 q/ha) and seed yield (3.43 q/ha) were recorded at 60 kg K₂O/ha which were significant higher than control and 20 kg K₂O/ha. Number of capsules/m² increased with increasing levels of boron over lower levels and the highest number of capsules/m2 (338.40), seeds/capsule (56.12), test weight, biological yield (50.81 q/ha) and seed yield (3.63 q/ha) were recorded with foliar spray of boron @ 0.2 % spray at flower initiation and at 50 % flowering stage. Interaction effect of potassium and boron was also found significant with the combination of 40 kg K₂O/ha and 0.2 % B spray at initiation and at 50 % flowering over control which resulted in maximum number of capsules/m² and seeds/capsule.

4 tables, 28 ref

040277   NISHA, JAKHAR S S, BHUKAR A, SATPAL (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004 (Haryana), Email: satpal.fpj@gmail.com) : Seed quality assessment in naturally aged seed of Sorghum. Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 285-8.

The present study was undertaken to find out the performance of different single cut forage sorghum genotypes under different fertility levels. The field experiment was conducted at Research Farm, Department of Seed Science & Technology, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (Haryana), India during kharif season, 2018. The single-cut forage sorghum genotypes used in the experiment were HC 136 and HJ 541. Among varieties highest (7.560) speed of emergence was recorded in variety HJ 541 while, lowest in HC 136. The maximum (4.264) reduction in speed of emergence was observed in variety HC 136 while, minimum (3.597) decrease was observed in variety HJ 541 from freshly harvested seed lot to two year old seed lot. Among seed lots, highest (7.560) mean emergence time was recorded in two year olds seed lot, while lowest in freshly harvested seed. The maximum reduction in mean emergence time (1.963) was observed in variety HJ 541 while it was minimum (1.917) in variety HC 136 from freshly harvested seed lot to two year old seed lot. In natural aged seed lots, only HJ 541 variety of sorghum sustained their germination up to one year showed that sorghum seed can be stored at ambient condition up to one year without loosening its viability. Based on the results, HJ 541 was concluded as superior variety on majority of the viability and vigour constraints results whereas HC 136 was recorded inferior.

3 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

040276   SHALINI P, SURANA P P, SHINDE G C (Agricultural Botany Dep, Mahatma Phule KrishiVidyapeeth, Rahuri (Maharashtra), Email: shalinipatil623.ss@gmail.com) : Development and evaluation of new bajra × napier grass hybrids for green fodder yield and quality traits. Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 281-4.

In the present investigation, twenty four Bajra×Napier hybrids were developed and evaluated with four checks for 13 morphological traits planted in RBD with two replications in the Department of Agricultural Botany, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri. Analysis of variance revealed that mean squares due to genotypes were highly significant for all characters. Wide variations were observed for dry matter yield, crude protein yield, green forage yield, number of tillers/plant, average number of internodes/tiller and L: S ratio. The variation in green forage yield ranged between 1.78 kg/plant in RBN-16-55 to 8.26 kg/plant in PYT-13-391 with mean performance of 4.90 kg/plant. The genotype PYT-13-391(8.26) showed significantly higher green forage yield over the best check i.e. Phule Gunwant (6.88). Variation in crude protein (%) ranges between 7.01 per cent (RBN-17-38 and PYT-13-391) to 10.11 per cent (RBN-17-35) with mean performance of 8.53 per cent. Two genotypes viz., RBN-17-35 (10.11 %) and RBN-16-55 (9.98 %) recorded significantly higher crude protein per cent over best check i.e. Phule Jaywant (9.44).

3 tables, 6 ref

040275   DEVI S, KUMAR Y, BHUKER A, NIWAS R (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125004 (Haryana), Email: yogenderkgulia@gmail.com) : Assessment of genetic variability for metric traits in barley under different sowing conditions. Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 277-80.

Fifty diverse genotypes of barely (Hordeum vulgare L.) were grown in the two environments with three replications during Rabi 2016-17 at Barley Research Area of Department of Genetics & Plant Breeding, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar (India). The objective of investigation was to study the genetic variability for ten metric traits i.e. days to heading, days to maturity, plant height (cm), spike length (cm), number of tillers per meter row, number of grains per spike, 1000 grain weight (g), grain yield (kg/plot), biological yield (kg/plot) and harvest index (%). Genotypes significantly differed for all the traits under both the environments indicating enough variability in the experimental material. The mean performance of genotypes under timely sown for most all characters was higher than under late sown condition. The results under investigation also revealed wide range for all the traits under both the environments. Among all the traits under both the conditions, number of grains per spike had highest phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation followed by grain yield per plot. Moderate to high heritability in broad sense observed under timely sown for all the traits except of plant height, harvest index and number of tillers per meter which exhibited low heritability. However, under late sown conditions, all the traits showed moderate to high heritability except plant height. Highest genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded for number of grains per spike followed by grain yield under both environments. Moderate to high heritability coupled with high genetic advance under timely sown was observed for number of grains per spike, grain yield, 1000-grain weight, biological yield and spike length likewise, for number of grains per spike, grain yield, number of tiller per meter, biological yield and 1000 grain weight under late sown indicating the importance of these traits in selection and crop improvement.

3 tables, 16 ref

040274   KAUSHIK D, JINDAL Y, KUMARI P, GAUR A (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, (Haryana), Email: yjindalhau@gmail.com) : Qualitative characterization of Sorghum genotypes for morphological traits. Forage Res 2019, 45(4), 269-76.

The present investigation was conducted on 49 different sorghum genotypes grown in randomized block design during kharif 2018 to evaluate, categorize and classify them on the basis of various DUS parameters. A total of 11 different qualitative traits were characterized as per the guidelines for the conduct of test for Distinctiveness, Uniformity and Stability on sorghum by PPV & FRA, GOI. The observations were taken on five randomly selected plants of each genotype for the following characters viz., anthocyanin coloration of coleoptiles and leaf sheath, midrib colour of leaf and flag leaf, colour of dry anther and glume, panicle shape and density, awn-ness, grain luster and colour. Results revealed that out of 49 genotypes, 11 genotypes were grouped under yellow green and remaining 38 under greyed purple on the basis of anthocyanin colouration of coleoptile. On leaf sheath anthocyanin coloration basis, 15 genotypes were greyed purple and 34 were yellow green. Thirty two genotypes had greyed yellow and 17 genotypes had white leaf mid rib colour. Mid rib coloration of flag leaf in 21 genotypes was white and in 38 genotypes it was found to be yellow green. Presence of awn was observed in 14 genotypes. On the basis of anther colour of dry anther, 17, 1, 8 and 23 genotypes were categorized into four groups viz., yellow orange, orange, orange red and greyed orange, respectively. Whereas, glume colour in genotypes were classified into five categories viz., green white (10), yellow white (13), greyed yellow (7), greyed orange (13) and greyed purple (6). Five different categories of panicle density viz., very loose (3), loose (11), semi loose (16), semi compact (18) and compact (1) were observed at maturity in these sorghum genotypes. On the basis of panicle shape eighteen genotypes had symmetrical, eight had panicle broader in lower part, ten had reverse pyramidal and thirteen had panicle broader in upper part. Twenty seven genotypes had lustrous grain and 22 genotypes had non lustrous grain. Grain colour varied among genotypes viz. white (12), yellow white (26), yellow orange (6), and greyed orange (5). The outcome of these traits tells us about the genetic architecture of the genotypes and their interaction within a specified environment for further improvement.

13 tables, 19 ref

040273   HEMAVATHY A T (Pulses Dep, TNAU, Coimbatore-641 003 (Tamil Nadu), Email: hemavathytnau@gmail.com) : Principal component analysis in sweet corn (Zea mays l. Saccharata.). Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 264-8.

An experiment was conducted in 26 genotypes of sweet corn to study Principal Component Analysis at Department of Millets, Centre for Plant Breeding and Genetics, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore during kharif, 2014. Eight quantitative and five qualitative characters were taken under observation to estimate substantial variation and relationship among sweet corn genotypes to identify the best performing lines. Analysis of variation for such quantitative traits in diverse line showed considerable and dissimilar level of variability. Green cob yield was highly significant and positively correlated with green cob length (0.410), green cob girth (0.579) and number of kernel rows per cob (0.421) however total sugar, sucrose and starch was non-significant negatively correlated with green cob yield. Principal component analysis showed the amount of variation by principal components as 1 to 6. Clustering analysis based on various morphological traits assorted 26 sweet corn genotypes into eight clusters. Dendrogram based on hierarchal clustering grouped genotypes based on their morphological traits rather than geographic origin. The diverse genotypes will be used for future breeding programme.

2 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

040272   RATHOD D P, GAMI R A, CHAUHAN R M, KUGASHIYA K G, PATEL R N (S. D. Agricultural Univ, Deesa - 385 535 (Gujarat), Email: ramangami@gmail.com) : Study of per se performance and heterosis for forage yield and its attributing traits in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (l.) moench]. Forage Res 2020, 45(4), 258-63.

The present investigation was carried out to study per se performance and magnitude of heterosis in sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench]. The 27 hybrids were generated by L × T fashion during early summer, 2018 at Sorghum Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Deesa using three females (2219A, 296A and 7A) as a line and nine males (DS 105, DS 173, DS 155, DS 137, DS 167, DS 176, DS 149, DS 156 and DS 161) as a tester. The resultant 27 hybrids along with 12 parents and two standard checks (GJ 39 and CSH 30) were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications at Sorghum Research Station, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Deesa during kharif, 2018. Perusal of per se performance of parents and their hybrids for different traits evinced that 296A among the females, DS 155 among the males and 7A × DS 156, 296A × DS 173 and 296A × DS 161 among the hybrids exhibited higher mean performance for green fodder yield per plant and some of the yield contributing traits. For earliness, female 2219A, male DS 173 and hybrid 2219A × DS 137 were found superior as they exhibited lower values for days to flowering. Looking to the grain yield per plant, 7A among the females, DS 155 among the males and 296A × DS 137 among the hybrids recorded more grain yield per plant. Significant heterosis over better parent and best standard check (GJ 39 and CSH 30) was observed in many hybrids for various traits. The hybrid 296A × DS 173 manifested significant and positive heterosis over better parent (82.20 %), standard check GJ 39 (52.45 %) and CSH 30 (13.45 %), while hybrids 7A × DS 173, 2219A × DS 155 and 296A × DS 137 evinced significant and positive heterosis over better parent and standard check GJ 39 for the green fodder yield while in case of grain yield, the hybrid 296A × DS 137, 7A × DS 161 and 7A × DS 149 exhibited significant and desirable heterosis over better parent (92.21, 3.95 and 31.05 %), standard check GJ 39 (30.84, 27.83 and 19.78 %) and CSH 30 (14.02 and 11.40 %), respectively.

1 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

046329   SHARON A, BIJU C N, ANKEGOWDA S J, SHIVAKUMAR M S, KUMAR R S, PEERAN M F (ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode, Kerala, Email: sharonrvnd@gmail.com) : Screening small cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton) field gene bank accessions for phenotypic characters, yield potential and disease resistance. J Spices Aromatic Crop 2020, 29(2), 105-12.

Evaluation of 117 field gene bank accessions of small cardamom for phenotypic characters along with yield potential and disease resistance (rhizome rot and leaf blight) at ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research Regional Station, Appangala revealed significant variation with respect to phenotypic characters. The highest plant height (350 cm) and number of bearing tillers (36.4) were recorded in the accessions, field gene bank (FGB) 65 and FGB 16, respectively. The highest fresh weight of capsules (399.61 g) and maximum number of capsules (244.20) plant^-1 were recorded in the accession, FGB 13. Further, based on screening for disease resistance, 35 and 15 accessions of cardamom were identified as resistant to leaf blight and highly resistant to rhizome rot, respectively. Based on the multivariate cluster analysis, 117 FGB accessions were classified into 5 clusters viz., clusters 1 and 2 encompassing equal number of accessions (44), cluster 3 with one accession (FGB 10), clusters 4 and 5 with 8 and 20 accessions, respectively.

1 illus, 5 tables,13 ref

046303   MADHAVILATHA L, PRIYA M S, KUMAR M H (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural Research Station, Tirupati - 517 505, Email: lmlreddy36@gmail.com) : Variability and divergence studies in Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum L.). J Plant Dev Sci 2020, 12(11), 675-8.

Fifteen kodo millet genotypes were grouped into six clusters using Tocher’s method. Among the clusters, cluster I and II had four genotypes each, three genotypes in cluster III, two genotypes in cluster IV, cluster V and VI were solitary each containing single genotype. Maximum intra cluster distance was recorded for cluster III (187.36) followed by cluster II (151.48) and cluster IV (147.29), which suggested that genotypes in cluster III were relatively more diverse among themselves. Genotypes falling in V and VI exhibited higher inter cluster distances (2066.95), followed by cluster V and III (1553.74) and cluster VI and II (1536.57) indicating that genetic makeup of genotypes falling in these clusters may be entirely different from one another. Intermating of the genotypes in cluster III (TNAU 86, TNPSU 301 and PPK 1) with genotypes in cluster IV (GAK 3 and RPS 694), cluster V (KMNDL 1) and cluster VI (BK 14-48) would produce superior genotypes for the respective traits.

5 tables, 14 ref

046300   PAIKARA S P, PAINKRA G P (Entomology Dep, Raj Mohini Devi Coll of Agriculture and Research Station, Ambikapur- 497 001) : Effects of independent variables on various dependent factors on coriander flowers. J Plant Dev Sci 2020, 12(11), 657-64.

A field experiment was undertaken to study the effect of weather parameters on the activity of various pollinators/visitors during 2018-19. Indian honey bee showed significant and negative correlation with minimum temperature (r= -0.750) and rock bee (r= -0.713) Italian bee (r= -0.715) whereas, the population of little bee showed significant positive correlation with maximum temperature (r= 0.764). The population of syrphid fly had exhibit significant and negative correlation with maximum temperature (r= -0.710). Evening relative humidity had positive and significant impact on the population of house fly (r= 0.739) and population of monarch butterfly exhibit significant and negative correlation with morning relative humidity (r= -0.757). Red cotton bug showed significant and negative correlation with maximum temperature (r= -0.738). The population of lady bird beetle exhibit significant and positive correlation with minimum temperature (r= 0.772).

13 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

046299   SARMA B, TAMULI P (P.G. Botany Dep, Darrang Coll, Tezpur- 784 001, Assam) : Management of seed-borne fungi of french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with fungicidal treatment. J Plant Dev Sci 2020, 12(11), 649-55.

Seeds of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are infected during storage conditions, which affect the germination percentage. Seeds were evaluated using the agar plate method to determine the fungal association. Seven fungal species were isolated from the internal and external seed surfaces of French bean, viz., Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, Fusarium solani, Mucor spp., Penicillium spp., Rhizopus oryzae, and Rhizopus stolonifer. Seeds were treated with four fungicides viz. Captan, Dithane M45, Zim50, and Saff before germination to study the efficacy against seed-borne fungi. Out of four fungicides used, Saff and Dithane M-45 were found effective to control seed mycoflora of French Bean. Treated seeds showed better germination percentage as well as root and shoot length than control.

5 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

044305   CHATTERJEE S (Botany Dep, Syamsundar Coll, Shyamsundar; PurbaBardhaman, Email: scsscbwn@gmail.com) : Study on the diversity and taxonomy of hyella bornet & flahault 1886 and Johannesbaptistia de toni 1934 – two rarest pseudo filamentous cyanobacteria from Eastern India. J Adv Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 224-7.

Hyella & Johannesbaptistia are the genus belonging to Pseudo-filamentous Cyanobacteria which are not very common compared to other taxa of the same group of Cyanoprokaryotes. In this present investigation the authors could obtain two species viz. H. maxima, & H. Fontana under the genus Hyella and two other viz. J. primaria and J. schizodichotoma under the genus Johannesbaptistia from different locations of present Purba (East) Bardhaman and Paschim (West) Bardhaman district of West Bengal, India. According to the available literatures on the said group of organisms obtained by the author during the present investigation are first reports from this part of India. Related ecological investigations were also performed by the authors and present taxonomic status of the concerned taxa was reinforced. This investigation will add to the world data on the occurrence and taxonomic status of the concerned Cyanoprokaryotes.

5 illus, 9 ref

044296   KRISHNAMOORTHI R, SIVAKUMAR S R (Botany Dep, Bharathidasan Univ, Tiruchirappalli, Tamilnadu, Email: krishnamoorthi143@gmail.com) : Anti bacterial, anti oxidant potential and gc/ms approach of marine green algae Ulva lactuca l. purified protein. J Adv Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 173-9.

Seaweeds are good sources of natural anti-oxidant effect of bioactive compounds and can be used as anti-oxidant, controlling bacterial infection in seaweeds as well as pharmacological industries. Present study was analysis of bioactive compounds extracted from Ulva lactuca L. HPLC purified protein by the GC-MS study was used to evaluate anti-bacterial and antioxidant effect for controlling bacterial infection in human pathogenic bacteria. ULP protein extract will be novel bioactive compounds with anti-oxidant and radical scavenging possessions divulge the unexploited things of seaweed could be used in the medicinal and food industries. 

6 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

044286   HAJONG P, RAMANUJAM P (Botany Dep, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong, Meghalaya, Email: pranitahajong@gmail.com) : Screening of microalgae with high pigment and nutritional value as a fish feed for Catla catla (hamilton). J Adv Sci Res 2020, 11(1), 94-100.

Algae are excellent source of food for fish in natural habitats due to their high protein, carbohydrate, lipid and carotenoid content. Proper selection and cultivation of dominant algal species can be utilized to improved pisciculture. In the present study, twelve selected algal species from different water bodies were cultured and screened for high pigment and nutritional value to be used as supplemented fish feed. Feeding trial with four different diets were continued for 90 days to feed Catla catla (Hamilton). Among the four diets, significant (P<0.05) increase in length (7.40 cm), body weight gain (4.90 g), specific growth rate (4.12 % day^-1) and low feed conversion ratio (0.26) were found in fish fed with value added algal diet, that signifies effective utilizations of feed by the fish. Similarly, the biochemical attributes like protein (12.78 %), carbohydrate (3.91 %), lipid (2.60 %), carotenoid (0.67 %), ash (6.2 %) and moisture content (70.36 %) were also found to be maximum in fish fed with value added algal diet as compared to control diet. The findings of the present investigation suggested that the twelve selected algae having high pigment content and nutritional value can be used as fish feed to enhance the growth performance and nutritional value of Catla catla.

6 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

040156   AHILADEVI P, MAHALAKSHMI P, JESUMAHARAJA L G (National Pulses Research Centre, Pudukottai - 622 303, Tamil Nadu, Email: ahila.devi1@gmail.com) : Endophytic plant growth promoting bacteria (EPGPB) for the management of sheath rot of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 34-42.

Sheath rot of rice, one of the serious diseases of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae has resulted in heavy yield loss in the state of Tamil Nadu. Hence, the present work was carried out to study the management of sheath rot of rice using endophytic plant growth promoting bacteria (EPGPB). The population was enumerated by serial dilution technique and the endophytes were found to be higher in ADT42 variety with the population of 4 × 10⁶ cfu g^-1 of tissue. Seed bacterization (SB) + seedling root dip (SRD) + spray with endophytes under milky stage and boot leaf stage were found to increase the vigor index of rice seedlings significantly. The increase in mean plant height (87 cm) and 1000 grain weight (26 g) due to Seed bacterization (SB) + seedling root dip (SRD) + spray with endophytes.

1 illus, 5 tables, 23 ref

040153   KIRUTHIGA G, KARTHIBA L (Plant Pathology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore - 641 003, Tamil Nadu, Email: karthiba@gmail.com) : Plant growth promoting cyanobacteria westiellopsis sp. for the eco-friendly management of soil borne pathogens. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 17-20.

Cyanobacteria produce unique antibacterial and antifungal bioactive metabolites which can be used for ecofriendly control of phytopathogens. The present study was carried out to explore the biological control and growth promoting activity of Westiellopsis sp. (Cyanobacteria) for the ecofriendly management of fungal pathogens. The work was conducted under in vitro conditions in Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Trichy, during the year 2016 - 2017. The methanol extracts (100 %) of cyanobacteria (Westiellopsis sp.) were tested against pathogens Rhizoctonia solani, Saraclodium oryzae, Macrophomina phaseolina and Fusarium oxysporum in PDA medium using sterile disc and agar bore well method. The maximum inhibition (32.88 %) was recorded in Fusarium oxysporum followed by Saraclodium oryzae (32.7 %) which were significantly higher among other fungal pathogens. However, Macrophomina phaseolina and Rhizoctonia solani showed considerable low inhibition zone percentage of 23.35 and 15.54, respectively. The rice and cowpea seeds treated with cyanobacterial extract (100 %) showed cent percent higher germination rate and higher vigour index of 771.5 and 3440 respectively, than compared to the control.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

039956   AHILADEVI P, MAHALAKSHMI P, JESUMAHARAJA L G (National Pulses Research Centre, Pudukottai- 622 303, Email: ahila.devi1@gmail.com) : Endophytic plant growth promoting bacteria (EPGPB) for the management of sheath rot of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 34-42.

Sheath rot of rice, one of the serious diseases of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae has resulted in heavy yield loss in the state of Tamil Nadu. Hence, the present work was carried out to study the management of sheath rot of rice using endophytic plant growth promoting bacteria (EPGPB). The population was enumerated by serial dilution technique and the endophytes were found to be  higher in ADT42 variety with the population of 4 × 10⁶ cfu g^-1 of tissue. Seed bacterization (SB) + seedling root dip (SRD) + spray with endophytes under milky stage and boot leaf stage were found to increase the vigor index of rice seedlings significantly. The increase in mean plant height (87 cm) and 1000 grain weight (26 g) due to Seed bacterization (SB) + seedling root dip (SRD) + spray with endophytes.

1 illus, 5 tables, 23 ref

039951   KIRUTHIGA G, KARTHIBA L (Plant Pathology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore- 641 003, Email: karthiba@gmail.com) : Plant growth promoting cyanobacteria Westiellopsis sp. for the eco-friendly management of soil borne pathogens. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 17 - 20.

Cyanobacteria produce unique antibacterial and antifungal bioactive metabolites which can be used for ecofriendly control of phytopathogens. The present study was carried out to explore the biological control and growth promoting activity of Westiellopsis sp. (Cyanobacteria) for the ecofriendly management of fungal pathogens. The work was conducted under in vitro conditions in Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Trichy, during the year 2016 - 2017. The methanol extracts (100 %) of cyanobacteria (Westiellopsis sp.) were tested against pathogens Rhizoctonia solani, Saraclodium oryzae, Macrophomina phaseolina and Fusarium oxysporum in PDAmedium using sterile disc and agar bore well method. The maximum inhibition (32.88 %) was recorded in Fusarium oxysporum followed by Saraclodium oryzae (32.7 %) which were significantly higher among other fungal pathogens. However, Macrophomina phaseolina and Rhizoctonia solani showed considerable low inhibition zone percentage of 23.35 and 15.54, respectively. The rice and cowpea seeds treated with cyanobacterial extract (100 %) showed cent percent higher germination rate and higher vigour index of 771.5 and 3440 respectively, than compared to the control. 

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

039653   SWETHA V P, SHEEJA T E, BASIKUMAR B (ICAR-Indian Institute of Spices Research, Kozhikode - 673 012, Email: sasikumarsooranadu@gmail.com) : DNA barcoding to resolve phylogenetic relationship in Myristica spp. J Spices aromatic Crop 2020, 28(2), 131-40.

Myristica is the largest and primitive genus of the taxonomically complex family Myristicaceae.DNA barcoding was used to study the evolutionary relationship between Myristica spp. and other genera of Myristicaceae. The barcoding loci namely, rbcL, matK, psbA-trnH, ITS and multilocus combinations were tested to assess their phylogenetic relationship. psbA-trnH locus revealed information regarding the relationship of species in Myristica genus. M. fragrans was found to be closely related to M. beddomei, M. amygdalina, M. andamanica1, whereas M. fatua was found to be distinct from M. malabarica. Gymnocranthera and Knema species were found to share sister relation with other Myristica spp.

4 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref