043672   RAKAVI B , JEYAKUMAR P , CHANDRASEKHAR CN , VIJAYALAKSHMI D, KUMAR M , ARUL L , BOOPATHI N M , BABU C (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Growth, phenology and yield response of cotton varieties under drought stress. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 518-23.

Cotton is one of the most important economic crops and the fiber produced is the raw material for the textile industry. Drought affects cotton productivity and fibre growth, resulting in poor quality of fibre. It is essential to experiment and study the response of cotton varieties to changing water deficit scenarios. Present investigation was conducted in the Rain out shelter (ROS) and the varieties taken are compact Cotton Co 17 and a check variety KC3 (Kovilpatti Cotton 3). Drought stress (55 % moisture reduction from control (T₁)) was imposed on squaring (T₂) and flowering stages (T₃) of cotton varieties. Results showed that the percentage reduction was higher in growth traits and nutrients in Co 17 (N: 16 %, P: 35 %, K: 22 %) than KC3 (N: 10 %, P: 17 %, K: 16 %) under flowering stress. Under drought stress, varieties showed earlier flowering phase. Drought stress reduced the yield by 37 % in Co 17 and 22 % in KC3.

3 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

043671   FIRDOUS J, MATHUR Y K , JEELANI M , AZIZ A , AZMAT S (Advanced Sciences Dep, NIMS Univ Rajasthan, Jaipur) : Ecological monitoring of Dal Lake, Kashmir. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 514-7.

In addition to natural siltation, the rapidly expanding human populations and rapid urbanization have threatened the Dal lake water ecosystem as well as the natural resources present in it. The present research investigated the levels of various physico-chemical parameters in three seasons, i.e. in winter, summer and autumn. Samples were obtained in each season from the four sites of selection. As strong denudation of the catchment area and agricultural activities with other activities affect the lake water and lake bed, water quality has been found to be unfit for domestic use. As the lake is located in the river's low lying field and flood plain, it receives material that flows into it and the consistency of the water begins to improve over a period of time. As a consequence, in a short period of time, large-scale improvements are seen in the Dal Lake, which are visible from the physico-chemical parameters examined in the work conducted compared to the earlier studies.

1 illus, 4 tables, 14 ref

043670   KIRAN SC , NAGARAJAIAH C , KUMAR TL M (Forestry and Environmental Sciences Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Bangalore, Karnataka) : Heavy metal accumulation in cabbage and soil irrigated with different concentration of open dumping yard leachate in Bangalore. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 508-13.

As world transforming with an advance science and technology, the generation of waste and standard of living are also increasing in a parallel way. The disposal of waste is becoming a menace due to its negative effect on environment if not managed scientifically, specially the leachates generated from landfills or dumping yard. The leachates generated in three seasons from open dumping yard, with different formulation (0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50 %) treated for cabbage resulted that increase in concentration will increase in heavy metal content of cabbage and soil, and in contrast the uptake was more till 20 percent of leachate application which resulted as increase in concentration will decrease in uptake due to trans factor of heavy metals.

9 tables, 24 ref

043669   KUMAR A, BAGHEL S (Soil and Water Engineering Dep, SVCAET & RS, IGKV, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Estimation and evolution of trend analysis of the Penman-Monteith reference evapotranspiration of Raipur region, Chhattisgarh central India. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 502-7.

Understanding evapotranspiration and its long-term trends is essential for water cycle studies, modeling and for water uses. Temporal analysis of evapotranspiration is therefore important for the management of water resources, particularly in the context of climate change. The objective of this study is to evaluate reference evapotranspiration using the AquaCrop model developed by FAO and analyze the trend of reference evapotranspiration (ET₀) in the Raipur Region. Mann-Kendall’s test and Sen’s slope were used to detect trends and amplitude changes in ET₀ and climatic variables that most influence ET₀. The average monthly ET₀ was found maximum in May (8.91 mm/day), whereas the average minimum ET₀ was estimated in December (1.91 mm/day). The mean daily reference evapotranspiration ranges from 2.49 mm per day to 7.61 mm per day in the study area. Results show a significant decrease in annual ET₀ is observed in the Study area. On the monthly time scale, decreasing trends were identified in ET₀ data in most of the months. A significant positive trend magnitude was found for September, October and November. This study provides the necessary information on atmospheric demand on water requirements for growing different crops in different seasons. This information will be very important for researchers and farmers in planning irrigation scheduling, irrigation water management studies in different seasons.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

043668   SUBHASH V , BASAVARAJ BEERNNAVAR B, PRASAD TS G , ADIVAPPAR N , MALLIKARJUNA HB (Agricultural Extension Dep, Agriculture Coll, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : A study on knowledge and adoption of betel vine cultivation practices followed by the farmers of Davanagere district of Karnataka. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 499-501.

The study was conducted in Davanagere district of Karnataka state during the year 2019-20 to study the knowledge and adoption of Betel vine cultivation practices followed by the farmers. A total of 120 respondents were randomly selected based on betel vine cultivation area. Farmers are interviewed using a pre-tested interview schedule. Majority of the betel vine farmers had medium (76.67 %) to low (15.83 %) knowledge level. More than half of respondents had medium (65.00 %) to high (18.33 %) adoption level with respect to betel vine cultivation practices. Hence, there is a need to provide training programmes through KVKs and Agricultural department to enhance the level of knowledge and adoption of betel vine production technology.

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

043667   PAI V V , SATISH BN (Forest Biology & Tree Improvement Dep, Forestry Coll, Sirsi, Karnataka) : Population structure, regeneration status and ethnobotanical survey of wild edible fruits in sacred groves of Kodagu. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 494-8.

Sacred groves of Kodagu district consist of diversified Wild Edible Fruits (WEF) species which act as an alternate food supply to the rural community. Wild edible fruit species was used for various purposes such as food, medicine, raw material for industries etc. It also provides economic stability to the poor people. Inspite of having multiple benefits many wild edible fruit species were still not yet domesticated or semi domesticated. Wild edible fruits improves the economic status of farmers, by providing additional income to the farming community. Therefore, Population structure of wild edible fruits in sacred groves was assessed by following Simple random sampling technique. Shannon’s Diversity Index of wild edible fruits of sacred groves was found to be 2.35 and species richness was 18. The mean density and mean basal area was found to be 202.67ha-1 and 42.65 m2ha-1 respectively. Terminalia belerica (93.83) was the dominant wild edible fruit species found in sacred groves followed by Grewia tiliaefolia (45.51) and Syzygium cumini (29.19). In sacred groves per cent distribution of stems of wild edible fruit species was higher between 120 and 180cm girth classes. The regeneration status of wild edible fruit species was also studied. In sacred groves the richness of regenerating species of wild edible fruits was found to be 15 and Shannon diversity index was 2.38. Grewia teliafolia was found to be the dominant regenerating species. Mean density of regenerating wild edible fruit species of sacred groves was 3666.7 ha-1 . Maximum regeneration was found in class I and class II and it followed a reverse J-shaped curve indicating healthy regeneration. A semi structured questionnaire survey was conducted among the people residing in and around the sacred groves to know the utility pattern of wild edible fruits, factors affecting the population status of wild edible fruits and preferred wild edible fruits for domestication based on the local people perception was recorded.

9 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

043665   MADHARIYA G , MAHISH P K (Biotechnology Dep, Govt. Digvijay P.G. Coll Rajnandgaon, Chhattisgarh) : Modeling of vertical and horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands: A review. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 484-90.

The current trend is modeling the simple subsurface constructed wetlands for improving the efficiency of the wastewater purification process by increasing the complexity of the constructed wetland system. This paper reviews some published non-mechanistic and mechanistic models for a constructed wetland. Several authors aimed to model the hydraulic behavior of the system including tracer experiments only. There are few published models the biochemical transformation and degradation processes that occur in the complex system subsurface flow constructed wetland. Models describing reactive transport underwater flow saturated conditions can only be used to model horizontal flow constructed wetlands. Some models are reviewed in these categories that use either a series or a network of ideal reactors (continuously stirred tank reactor and /or plug flow reactors) or are only applicable for constant flow rates to model water flow. Transformation and removal processes are described for organic matter and/or nitrogen. Modeling vertical flow constructed wetland with intermittent loading requires transient variably saturated flow models as these systems are highly dynamic, which adds to the complexity of the overall system. Based on this review need to modeling of constructed wetlands from time to time.

1 illus, 60 ref

043663   GHAYAL N , NIRGUNDIKAR M (Botany Dep, MES Abasaheb Garware Coll, Karve Road, Pune, Maharashtra) : Influence of an invasive weed Chromolaena odorata on agricultural crops. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 472-7.

To understand the influence of Chromolaena odorata on various agricultural crops number of studies have been assessed in this paper. Most of the researchers have found inhibitory effect of extracts of Chromolaena root, stem, leaf and inflorences on seed germination and seedling growth, root-shoot length and yield of various crops like maize, mustard, soyabean, mungbean, chickpea, Rice due to presence of more allelochemicals like alkaloids. Phenols, amino acids. Some researchers have found increase in crop yield like ragi, broccoli and okra due to presence of less allelochemicals.

2 tables, 39 ref

043662   ARUNA K, GANGAPRASAD S , DUSHYANTHAKUMAR BM , KUMAR HD M (Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Univ, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Identification of high yielding genotypes in greengram (Vigna radiata L.. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 469-71.

Greengram is a vital pulse crop throughout Asia, Australia, West Indies, South and North America, tropical and subtropical Africa. Owing to its high protein content greengram is an important part of diet. Low productivity is the major constraint in increasing area under greengram crop. Genetic variability is the pre-requisite for developing high yielding cultivar. Assessment of genetic variability is a preliminary step. With this background investigation was conducted to identify high yielding genotype. 81 genotypes were screened for yield and its attributing traits and assessed for genetic variability. Analysis of variance revealed significant mean squares attributable to genotypes for all the characters studied except primary branches plant-1 , number of clusters plant-1 and 100 seed weight. Based on performance 13 genotypes were selected as high yielding.

3 tables, 211 ref

043661   MARATI R , DEVADIGA S (Dr. Shivarama Karantha Pilikula Nisarga Dhama, Mangaluru, Karnataka) : A preliminary study on the arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal (AMF) association in the the rhizosphere soils of the Calamus species of Pattighat Reserve Forest, Sampaje, Kodagu district of Karnataka. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 465-8.

Mycorrhiza is found to play a vital role in the growth of many plant species and can also be used as one of the tools for crop improvement. The present work was undertaken to study Arbuscular Mycorrhizal (AM) association in three rattan species namely Calamus thwaitesii Becc. & Hook.f., Calamus nagabettai Fernandez & Dey and Calamus prasinus Lakshmana & Renuka of Pattighat Reserve Forest, Sampaje, Kodagu district of Karnataka, India. A total of 40 species of AM fungi belonging to five genera namely Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora, Glomus and Scutellospora were isolated from the rhizopshere soils of rattans.

2 illus, 27 ref

043660   UMESH MR , SHANWAD UK , VIKAS KULKARNI V, VIJAYKUMAR NG , KENGANAL M , POORNIMA , GOUD I S , GOVINDAPPA MR , SATHISHKUMAR (Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka) : Impact of on-farm frontline demonstration technologies for enhancement of productivity and profitability of sunflower in North-Eastern Impact of on-farm frontline demonstration technologies for enhancement of productivity and profitability of sunflower in North-Eastern Karnataka. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 460-4.

Series of on-farm sunflower frontline demonstrations (FLDs) were conducted in Kharif and winter seasons in five districts of NorthEastern Karnataka from 2007 to 2019. These demonstrations were conducted over 419 farmer fields each having minimum of one acre of sunflower production. Collected data of FLD’s and farmers practice were analyzed in terms of yield advantage, monetary benefits and assessed the yield gap and extension gaps. Results indicated that there was huge gap in grain yield gain (11.0 to 35.2 %) across improved components demonstrated over existing farmers practice. It was also resulted additional monetary benefits (Rs. 2300 to 6800/ha) in both the seasons. Maximum yield improvement was noticed by weed management, intercropping with pigeonpea and groundnut, management of pests, alternaria, necrosis and powdery mildew. It was indicated that sunflower yield improvement possible by implementation of improved technologies.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

043659   SHINDE S, DHANANJAYA B , BEERANNAVAR B , MALLIKARJUNA HB , NAVEEN NE (Agricultural Extension Dep, Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Univ, Shivamogga. Karnataka) : Farmers’ perception and adoption of groundnut production technologies in Udupi district. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 454-9.

The present study was conducted in Udupi district of Karnataka state during the year 2018-19 to assess the farmers’ perception and adoption of groundnut production technologies. Three taluks having highest area under groundnut cultivation were selected. Four villages from each taluks were selected and from each village ten farmers were randomly selected. Thus, the sample size of the study comprises of 120 farmers. The data collection had been done with the help of a structured interview schedule. The study revealed that 65.83 per cent of farmers had high perception about groundnut production technologies. In case of adoption 75.00 per cent of the farmers had high adoption level regarding the recommended groundnut production technologies. Hence, SAU, KVKs, RSKs and concerned agriculture department should provide ample training and information to motivate the farmers in order to improve their perception level and to adopt the recommended technologies.

4 tables, 9 ref

043658   AJAY , KATHAYAT K , THAKUR S (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara, Punjab) : Morphological characterization, Assessment of genetic variability, divergence and character association in bottle gourd (Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Stand) germplasm: A review. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 450-3.

Bottle gourd is equatorial and sub-tropical creeper. Bottle gourd, is the first mankind’s considerate vegetable species, imparting food, medicine and other supplementary additionally found as vital crop in every home garden. It was probably originated in Africa and extensively grown in South and Southeast Asia and all over the world. Detailed information about genetic variability, genetic diversity, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path coefficient and of various quantitative traits and their contribution towards yield is essentaial for maximum improvement of crop and maximum yield. Very less work had done in this direction. Hence, the different scientist work in this direction has been reviewed here.

1 table, 15 ref

043657   MANOJ KN , UMA V , KIRAN SC (Agronomy Dep, GKVK, Bengaluru, Karnataka) : Significance of liquid organic manures in sustainable crop production: A review. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 445-9.

The organic manures provide a way for reducing the indiscriminate use of chemical fertilizers and help to maintain the soil health with a positive impact on organic matter recycling. The liquid organic manures helps to achieve higher growth and development of the crops through improved physiological and biochemical processes of the plant, as their application results in rapid availability of macronutrients, micronutrients, growth regulators and other beneficial substances to the plants in addition to enhanced tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses. They also increase the beneficial microflora of the soil and their activity to a large extent upon soil application and thereby increase the availability of soil nutrients. These liquid organic manures are low cost production technologies as they can be easily prepared from naturally and locally available materials by the farmers, thereby they also offers ecofriendly nature. Thus use of liquid organic manures in agriculture play prime role to sustain the soil fertility and crop productivity.

48 ref

043655   KHANDURI M , SAXENA A (Fisheries Resource Management Dep, Govind Ballabh Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar, Uttarakhand) : The Ganga Aarti ritual and its influence on physical and chemical parameters of water quality of river Ganga: A preliminary study. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 435-9.

River Ganges has an important influence on the lives of a large portion of India’s population, and is in turn influenced by the same population. Various anthropogenic activities have played a role in the development of the river into its present state, and these anthropogenic influences still continue to change the state of the river. The present study investigates the response of some physical and chemical parameters of water quality of the river to the Ganga Aarti Ritual. The parameters of Water Temperature, Dissolved Oxygen, free CO₂, Total Alkalinity, pH and Total Dissolved Solids were studied before, during and after the time of the Aarti and changes in the dissolved gases and alkalinity of the water were observed. It was inferred that organic allochthonous inputs could be driving changes in the dynamics of the dissolved gases by promoting algal growth in the channel, and could also be responsible for causing temporary changes in the Total Alkalinity of the water. Despite these observations, the selected parameters appear to be within acceptable limits, thus indicating the self-purifying capability of the river.

7 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

043654   KARTHIK S, YADAV M K, REDDY M S S, YASHASWINI G (Entomology Dep, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural Univ, Pusa, Bihar) : Study on the diversity and abundance of butterfly fauna in Pusa, Bihar. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 429-34.

A study has been commenced to investigate the diversity of butterfly fauna in and around of Pusa. This study was carried out from the month February 2019 to March, 2020 to gather the activities of different genera. Throughout the study period a total of 52 butterfly species have been recorded which belongs to 5 families. Among all, Nymphalidae members were most frequently recorded accounting for 35.18 per cent (???? = 19) belonging to 14 genera, followed by Lycaenidae of 28.84 per cent (???? =15) belonging to 14 genera, Pieridae of 17.30 per cent (???? = 9) belonging to 9 genera, Papilionidae of 11.53 per cent (???? = 6) belonging to 3 genera and lowest species percentage was recorded for Hesperiidae as 5.76 per cent (???? = 3) belonging to 3 genera. These results serve as a future reference material regarding the butterfly species richness in this region.

4 illus, 1 tables, 14 ref

043653   KAUR S, SINGH M , BHARDWAJ SK (Environmental Sciences Dep, Dr YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, Himachal Pradesh) : Impact of climate change on evapotranspiration of pea using CROPWAT model in Himachal Himalayas. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 425-8.

Pea is one of the most important Rabi crops of Himachal and northern gangetic plain and thousands of farmers depends upon its cultivation to earn their livelihood. Reference crop evapotranspiration (ET₀) and crop evapotranspiration (ET_c) of pea during Rabi 2017- 18 for mid hill region of Himachal Pradesh was computed using FAO CROPWAT model. Seasonal mean reference crop evapotranspiration (ET₀) was relatively higher in D₂ (1.79 mm/day) as compared to D₁ (1.59 mm/day) and similar trend was also observed in radiation use efficiency viz. 14.77 MJ/m²/day and 14.19 MJ/m²/day, respectively. A direct relation was observed between ET₀ and RUE. It was also found that an increase in the existing temperature by 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 ^oC will increase the ET 0 by 0.63, 1.26, 1.89 and 2.52 % and irrigation water requirement by 1.10, 2.21, 3.31and 4.35 %, respectively. A higher positive linear relation was observed between predicted and observed ET for first date of sowing which indicated that pea must be sown on or before 1^st December in the mid hills of HP. The study concluded that global warming scenarios are likely to increase crop water requirements, suggesting thereby the need for effective planning and sustainable use of water resources in the region.

3 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

043652   RAMALAKSHMI V, DASH L , PADHY D (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Odisha) : Eco-friendly management of lesser grain borer Rhizopertha dominica (F) in cereal grains. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 421-4.

Lesser grain borer, Rhizopertha dominica (F). is a serious pest of stored wheat and distributed in all the countries of the world? It is a very destructive pest of wheat, buckwheat, rice, maize, sorghum, barley, rye, millets etc. Both the adults and grubs of R. dominica cause serious damage to the grains by feeding inside them and reducing them to more shells with many irregulars’ holes. Presently, insect manage procedures mostly rely on synthetic insecticides and fumigants. Theses Insecticides have wide and unsystematic application causes natural imbalance opposition to insect, insect recovery and epidemic of secondary insect and creates Phytotoxicity. Insecticide residues in diet and nourish. Furthermore, non-stop use of insecticides is harmful for insect pollinators, biological agent like different Predators, parasitoids and also causes the ecological contamination. Owing to these drawbacks, substitute and safe approaches for management of lesser grain borer by using plants products, essential oils, animal products and entmopathogenic fungi has been reviewed.

40 ref

043651   KUMAR A (Environmental Sciences Dep, Dyal Singh Coll, Delhi) : Microcystis aeruginosa bloom, a looming threat to high altitude Lake Tsokar in Ladakh, India. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 417-20.

Blue green algae are known to form algal blooms in many parts of the world. Microcystis sp is colony forming bloom seen in hypersaline lake Tsokar in Ladakh. The lake was studied for three years from 2011-2013 and sampling of phytoplankton and water sample for various parameters was carried out in early summer and late summer season. Nutrient enrichment with high phosphate content with presence of Microcystis aeruginosa bloom was seen in late summer in the lake. The formation of algal bloom in late summer each year dominated phytoplankton with decreased diatom density in the lake. The high salinity, nutrient enrichment in the lake and presence of Microcystis bloom may affect ecology of the lake in the future. The nutrient enrichment needs to be reduced for reducing algal blooms and keeping the lake healthy.

2 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

043650   HEMAN A , RAJANI V , DHANYA SR (Environmental Sciences Dep, All Saints’ Coll, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) : Impact of detergents on soil nutrients, morphology, growth and minerals in leaves of Amaranthus Dubius. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 409-16.

Detergents containing anionic surfactants were used to prepare the irrigation solutions. The irrigation solutions were prepared by dissolving 40% of liquid detergents with 60% of water. Five different detergents used for the study are Surf Excel, Pril, Comfort, Lizol and Vivel. Plant growth studies were carried out using six polyethylene bags filled with soil among which one served as the control. The results of the growth studies revealed that the presence of certain detergents reduced the shoot height, number of leaves and shoot size of the plant. Mineral estimation studies in the leaves of the plant also showed that detergents Lizol and Pril increased the mineral nutrient content in plants. Increased concentration of detergents like Lizol increased pH 7.8, decreased soil Nitrogen content 168Kg/ha, increased Electrical conductivity 0.98mhos/cm, Phosphorus 201Kg/ha, Potassium 152kg/ha and Organic carbon content of the soil 2.53 %. Therefore, it can be concluded that detergents with high concentration of salts and surfactants like Lizol and Pril are unhealthy for plant growth and brings about unfavourable changes in the mineral nutrient content of the plant and soil physiochemistry.

6 illus, 7 tables, 20 ref

043649   KAUR M , BAKSHI M , BHARDWAJ R , VERMA N (Forest Botany Div, Forest Research Institute (Deemed) Univ, Dehradun, Uttarakhand) : Heavy metal phytoextraction ability of plants growing in metal contaminated industrial area Soil. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 400-8.

Rapid industrialization and population explosion have resulted in contaminating the environment in many ways. Heavy metal contamination from industries has raised the threat to the nearby residents by polluting soil and groundwater. Phytoremediation has emerged as an eco-friendly, long-lasting, durable, and financially practical procedure for the remediation and reclamation of overwhelming metal polluted land. The present study was undertaken to assess the accumulation of four heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Ni and Pb) in twenty naturally growing plant species viz. Abutilon indicum, Alternanthera sessilis, Achyranthes aspera, Cassia tora, Cassia occidentalis, Calotropis procera, Chinopodium ambroisoides, Croton bonplandianum, Cynadon dactylon, Cyperus rotundus, Eclipta alba, Erigeron bonariensis, Euphorbia hirta, Lantana indica, Parthenium hysterophorus, Sida cordifolia, Solanum nigrum, Tridax procumbens, Urena lobata and Xanthium strumarium in an industrial area of Uttarakhand, India. The results revealed that the heavy metal accumulation was heterogeneous among the different plant species and plant parts. Average shoot metal concentration in plants were Cr = 38.32, Cu = 33.69, Pb = 27.26, and Ni =20.27 µg g⁻¹ dry wt. and the corresponding root metal concentration were Cr = 36.93, Cu = 24.25, Pb = 28.38, and Ni = 23.77 µg g⁻¹ dry wt. The TF ranged between 0.30 ± 0.02 (C. rotundus) to 7.25 ± 0.02 (P. hysterophorus) for chromium; 0.37 ± 0.05 (T. Procumbens) to 9.26 ± 0.26 (U. lobata) for copper; 0.23 ± 0.01 (C. rotundus) to 11.46 ± 0.31 (P. hysterophorus) for lead and 0.51 ± 0.04 (T. Procumbens) to 7.18 ± 0.06 (U. lobata) for nickel. Ten out of twenty plant species showed translocation factor> 1for all the four studied metals suggesting their potential for the remediation of multi-metal contaminated soil.

4 illus, 3 tables, 72 ref

043648   DONIA A , PRASAD V B R, MANIVANNAN N , VIJAYALAKSHMI D (National Pulses Research Centre, Vamban, Pudukkottai) : Effect of salt stress on blackgram during seedling stage under hydroponics. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 395-9.

The effect of salt stress on four varieties of blackgram (ADT6, CO6, VBN6, VBN8) were studied under hydroponics during seedling stage. Results indicate that salt stress decreases shoot length and leaf area at seedlings stage. The effect of salt stress on root growth varies with intensity of the stress level. Proline content increases under salt stress in blackgram. This study will be used for identifying the varieties that confers tolerance during salt stress.

4 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

043647   DEVI S R , SINGH L K, BHUPENCHANDRA I , DIHINGIA P C (ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Manipur Centre, New Delhi) : Use of paddy drum seeder to sow pre-germinated seed as an alternative to mechanized paddy transplanter in valley area of Manipur. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 391-4.

Rice is the main food of Manipur and it is still insufficiency in production. The cost of producing rice crops is increasing significantly due to higher fertilizer rates and wages due to the increased demand for work at the time of the transplant. Human labours continue to be the primary source of energy for agricultural production on small and marginal land and in both valley and hilly areas of Manipur, which indicates a very low level of mechanization. The paddy drum seeder is one of the tools with which human labour can be reduced and tools can be used successfully in the farmer’s field. During the study of rice production activities, using paddy drum seeder can enhanced crop yield by 22 %. In comparison, financial input can be reduced by 52 % and further drudgery requirements can be reduced by 93 % compared to the traditional farming system. By using paddy drum seeder, rice cultivation could be reduced significantly and makes it possible for other agricultural mechanizing activities involved in rice cultivation.

3 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

043646   SANNAGOUDAR M S, PATIL RH , RAJANNA GA , AVIJIT GHOSH A , SINGHA K , HALLI HM, KUMAR S , KUMAR RV (ICAR-Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh) : Variability assessment of four kharif sorghum genotypes under varied levels of moisture regimes and dates of sowing. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 386-90.

DSSAT-CERES Sorghum model was calibrated and evaluated for four kharif sorghum genotypes (CSV-17, CSV-23, CSH-16 and CSH23) using two years (kharif 2011 and 2012) experimental data, and then used to simulate growth and yield of same four genotypes under two moisture regimes (rainfed as stressed and irrigated as no-stressed) and three dates of sowing (15, June, 30, June and 15, July) on blacks soils of Dharwad. The study showed that variation in rainfall between years greatly affected kharif sorghum yield as crop experienced moisture stress during both the years, but much more during 2012 (rain deficit year) than in 2011 (above normal year), thus proving that kharif sorghum requires supplemental irrigation at critical stages to realize potential yields. Among different cultivars tested, CSH-16 performed well (6637 and 5174 kg ha^-1 in stressed and non-stressed condition, respectively) compared to other genotypes across moisture regimes and dates of sowing. Among the dates of sowing, 15^th June sown crop recorded higher yield both under stressed and no-stressed condition as compared to later sowing (30, June and 15, July), but the per cent yield difference between stressed and nonstressed condition were higher during 2012 (30.62 %) than 2011 (22.28 %).

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

043645   VERMA N , ARIF M (Environmental Sciences Dep, Sharda Univ, Uttar Pradesh) : Challenges and strategy for achieving nationally determined contribution commitment of India. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 380-5.

India has submitted its Nationally Determined Contributions targets to United Nations Framework for Climate Change to create additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO₂ equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030. This paper highlights the existing carbon stock and short fall to achieve targets. It has been observed that the overall forest and tree cover is increasing continuously but the area under the different forest cover class is shifting towards the open forest. Carbon stock has also been increased from 2011-2019. The Forest Survey of India has projected that there is a shortfall of 0.25 billion tonnes and 0.75 billion tonnes of CO₂eq against the targets of 2.5-3.0 billion tonnes respectively from the baseline of 2015 under BAU scenario. We estimated that there is shortfall of 1.10 billion tonnes and 1.60 billion tonnes of CO₂eq against the NDC targets under the scenario-II. Similarly, short fall is 0.95 billion tonnes and 1.45 billion tonnes of CO₂eq against the NDC targets from the baseline of 2015 under scenario-III. These targets can be achieved by activities such as restoration of open forest and afforestation on different kinds of available lands like wasteland, agro-forestry, along national & state highways, railway siding, urban landscapes etc. A national level REDD+ project can be developed to provide the ample support to the Union Government and State Government.

5 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

043644   NALAWADE P M, BAGUL A B ( Environmental Science Dep, BH Commerce and AM Science (KTHM) Coll, Nashik, Maharashtra) : Physico-chemical conditions and plankton diversity of Godavari River in Nashik City area of Maharashtra: A comparative assessment. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 373-9.

The physico-chemical parameters play a vital role in growth and sustainability of planktonic diversity in river ecosystem. These parameters and plankton diversity index can be used to evaluate suitability of water for drinking and other purposes. The present work carried out comparative assessment of physico-chemical parameters and plankton diversity of Godavari river water in Nashik city area for a period of one year starting from April-2017 to March-2018. Samples of water were collected from carefully selected two sampling sites each month during this study duration. Analysis of samples were done for physico-chemical parameters and plankton diversity. The study revealed there is a direct effect on plankton population due to fluctuation in physio-chemical parameters during the selected period. The physico-chemical parameters, of both the sites on the river, were studied by measuring the degree of correlation with the plankton diversity. The study revealed that quality of Godavari river water is highly affected negatively due to industrial, agricultural and human activities. The plankton diversity index of river Godavari indicate that the river is badly polluted and the water quality have the direct effect on plankton diversity.

3 illus, 6 tables, 40 ref

043643   BORA SS , SAIKIA DK , GUDADE BA, KUMAR A, BHUPENCHANDRA I , AAGE AB, DEKA TN (Regional Research Station, Tadong, Gangtok, Sikkim) : Influence of weather parameters on incidence of thrips and mite on Bhut Jolokia (Capsicum Chinense Jacq.) in Assam condition. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 368-72.

Bhut Jolokia an important cash crop of North eastern part of India. However, insect pest dominant factor causing damage to the crop among the insect pest thrips and mites are the important one. Weather plays a significant role in appearance of these two important pests and it was observed that highest incidence of thrips in 4th week of March in both 2018 and 2019, while mite population reaches its peak during 4th week of March in 2018 and 2nd week of April, 2019, respectively. Multiple regression analysis Reveled that weather parameter plays crucial role in total variation in the population of thrips by 58.70 and 50.60 per cent, while in case of mite it contributed for 54.10 and 47.70 per cent in Bhut Jolokia during 2017-18 and 2018-19. Correlation study on influence of weather factor on population build up revealed that Av. RH had significant negative effect on both thrips (-0.661** and -0.576**) and mite (-0.618** and -0.527**) while, maximum temperature had significant positive effect population buildup of both thrips and mite (0.408* and 0.504*) during 2018-19 only. Among the weather factors average relative humidity had the profound effect in suppressing the population growth of thrips and mites infesting Bhut Jolokia.

4 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

043642   SHRUTHI , LAKSHMIPATHI MT , PADMANABHA A , NARSHIVUDU D (Aquatic Environment Management Dep, Fisheries Coll, Mangalore, Karnataka) : Hydrographical studies along the coastal waters off Mangalore and Padubidri, southwest coast of India. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 358-67.

In this paper, attempt has been made to study the spatial and temporal variations of hydrographical parameters in the coastal waters off Mangalore and Padubidri, Southwest coast of India from September 2014 to May 2015. The air and water temperature ranged from 24.1 to 28.9 ⁰C and 25.7 to 32.3 ⁰C respectively, light extinction coefficient varied from 0.31 to 1.48m, total suspended solids ranged between 32 and 164mg/l, pH varied from 7.36 to 8.49, salinity fluctuated from 15 to 35PSU, dissolved oxygen ranged from 4.08 to 7.76mg/l. Concentrations of nutrients, viz. ammonia, nitrite and nitrate ranged from 0.78 to 20.32µg-at NH₃-N/l, 0.06 to 11.70µg-at NO₂-N/l and 0.08 to 39.77µg-at NO₃-N/l respectively, phosphate and silicate varied from 0.10 to 2.80µg-at PO₄-P/l and 8.35 to 52.35µg-at SiO₃-Si/l respectively were recorded. The higher values of temperature, pH, ammonia and salinity were recorded during pre-monsoon season, nitrite and nitrate higher values were observed during post-monsoon season. In contrast, an increase in dissolved oxygen and silicate were observed during monsoon season. The studies revealed that the hydrographical parameters in the coastal waters off Mangalore and Padubidri exhibited considerable seasonal and spatial variations and are greatly affected by the monsoon system for southwest monsoon.

14 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

043641   YOGEESHAPPA H , NIDAGUNDI R, HUGAR S (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Horticulture Coll, Bagalkot, Karnataka) : ffect of nutrient management techniques on soil fertility and yield of french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) under northern dry zone of Karnataka. Int J Eco Envir Sci 2020, 2(4), 355-7.

The field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season from 2015-16 to 2017-18 at College of Horticulture, Munirabad (Koppal), University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka to evaluate the different levels of fertilizers application through different approaches in french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) under alfisol soils. Application of 100 per cent fertilizers application based on specific nutrient management (SSNM) approach with target yield of 15 t ha^-1 recorded significantly higher fresh pod yield (T₃: 15.1 t ha^-1 ) and it was on par with treatment had 100 per cent fertilizers application based on soil test crop response (STCR) approach with target yield of 15 t ha^-1 . The Soil pH (1:2.5) and electrical conductivity (dSm^-1 ) as influenced by the application of different levels fertilizers through different approaches at harvest of french bean crop were recorded on par among the treatments. Similarly, application of 100 per cent fertilizers based on site specific nutrient management (SSNM) approach with target yield of 15 t/ha (T₃) at harvest showed significantly higher nutrients levels (T₃: 396.7, 57.7 and 572.3 Kg N, P₂O₅ and K₂O ha^-1 , respectively), it was on par with 100 per cent fertilizers application based on soil test crop response (STCR) approach with target yield of 15 t/ha (T6). And the same trend of results were observed soil organic carbon at harvest.

2 tables, 12 ref

043640   BANYAL S, AGGARWAL RK , BHARDWAJ SK (Environmental Sciences Dep, Dr. Y S Parmar Univ of Horticulture & Forestry, Nauni (Solan) Himachal Pradesh) : Effects of national highway expansion activities on physicochemical characteristics of surface water along NH-22, India. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 347-54.

The development of highway infrastructure contributes to environmental contamination, specifically surface water bodies in close proximity to the roads. A study was conducted to assess the effects of road expansion on physicochemical parameters of surface water by collecting 72 samples during Pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons from 4 study sites. The water quality parameters such as pH, EC, TDS, Turbidity, BOD, COD, Cland NO₃ were analysed. The water was found to be slightly alkaline in nature. The mean values of analytes were: pH (7.40,7.20,7.24), EC (0.28 ds m^-1 ,0.23ds m-1 ,0.25 ds m^-1 ), Turbidity (3.15NTU, 3.53NTU, 2.96NTU), TDS ( 144.67 mgl^-1 , 110.9367 mgl^-1 , 129.69 mgl^-1 ), BOD (2.57 mgl^-1 , 2.3767 mgl^-1 , 2.12 mgl^-1 ), COD (48.20 mgl^-1 ,42.27 mgl^-1 ,35.05 mgl^-1 ), Cl- ( 27.12 mgl^-1 , 21.25 mgl^-1 , 19.46 mgl^-1 ) and No3 ( 3.62 mgl^-1 , 4.26 mgl^-1 , 4.22 mgl^-1 ) recorded during pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon seasons respectively. The turbidity has highly significant positive correlation with BOD (r = 0.844, p < 0.01), COD (r= 0.730, p < 0.010) and Cl- (r = 0.813, p < 0.01). The concentration of pH, EC, TDS, BOD, COD and Cl- was higher during premonsoon whereas turbidity and No₃ were higher in monsoon. The highway expansion activities have started affecting the surface water quality henceforth, highway construction impacted parameters can be considered as potential indicator for biological relevance of surface water bodies.

2 illus, 10 tables, 42 ref

043639   PANDEY A K , SINGH A , SINGH U (Mandan Bharti Agriculture Coll, Agwanpur, Saharsa, Bihar) : A review on impact of integrated nutrient management practices on soil quality. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 344-6.

Soil productivity is the results of its physical, chemical and biological properties and any change in these properties adversely affect the soil environment leading to decline in crop yield. In these concern of proper soil management practice is likely to be helpful which increase the properties of the soil. Complementary use of organic and inorganic fertilizer has an important role in the improvement of soil ecosystem resulting in higher crop productivity without deteriorating soil qualities.

25 ref

043638   RAMTEKE P M (Commerce and Science Coll Akola, Maharashtra) : Moths (lepidoptera) of shri shivaji art, commerce & science college and adjoining areas, Akola: An initial checklist. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 338-43.

Moths are diverse group of insects belonging to the order Lepidoptera and regarded as one of the indicators of a healthy environment. This study deals with the first documentation on the moth species of Shivaji Art, commerce & Science College campus and its adjoining areas of Akola, M.S. The study was and Adjoining Areas, Akola carried out from September 2019 to March 2020, surveying areas mostly in the college campus, human settlements and agricultural lands. The survey examined the light illuminated walls of the College campus where moths accumulated during the evening hours. Light trapping equipped with 18w UV-Actinic tube was also used to record moths from nearby agricultural lands. In total, 24 moth individuals were recorded belonging to 24 species Within 24 genera falling under 10 families.. The family Noctuidae -7 represented the highest number of species, followed by Crambidae -4 , Sphingidae -3, and Lymantriidae -3 . the less commonly observed species belonging to families are Geometridae-1, Arctiidae-2, Saturniidae-1, Thyrididae -1 and nolidae-1 individuals respectively.

1 table, 21 ref

043637   CHAUDHARY A P , NELSON K A , HARISH S , S MYDHILY S , CHAITHANYA KJ, NAYAK L (Pharmacy Practice Dep, Rajiv Gandhi Univ of Health Sciences, Bangalore, Karnataka) : Effect of meteorological parameter on covid-19 in seven cities around the globe. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 334-7.

The objective of this study was to understand the effect of temperature and precipitation in COVID-19 daily death and daily transmission. Two estimated model were developed for this study and panel data model was applied to understand the effect of temperature and precipitation in COVID-19 daily death and daily new cases. The study was carried out using secondary data, data were collected of 3 consecutive month of seven cities around the world which were effected most by the COVID-19 and varying of meteorological parameters to study the effect. Data included weather variables i.e temperature (average temperature, maximum temperature and minimum temperature), precipitation, daily new cases and daily new death. First estimated model which included average temperature and precipitation showed a significant association of average temperature with daily death with p-value 0.02748 and second estimated model which included average temperature, precipitation, maximum temperature and minimum temperature, the average and maximum temperature had significant association with the daily transmission with p-value 0.04 and 0.02 respectively. Increase in average temperature reduces daily death and increase in maximum temperature reduces transmission. This study helps to predict in South Asia if vaccines aren’t available and strong preventive measure strategy isn’t developed there is chance of second wave of COVID-19 as winter session is about to start.

3 tables, 14 ref

043636   JOB A M, BIJU S , KEERTHIRAJ B (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Agriculture Coll, KAU, Kerala) : Advances in plant molecular farming: More than a medicine for achieving sustainable biomanufacturing. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 328-33.

Plant molecular farming is a new and promising industry involving plant biotechnology and it is considered as a cost-effective technology that has grown and advanced tremendously over the past two decades. The development and improvement of the transient expression system has significantly reduced the protein production timeline and greatly improved the protein yield in plants. Plant based manufacturing can make the greatest impact, focusing on commercialized products or biopharmaceuticals including recombinant vaccine antigens, monoclonal antibodies, enzymes, and growth factors that are used as research-grade or diagnostic reagents, cosmetic ingredients, and biosensors or biocatalysts. Plants have emerged as a promising alternative expression system for production of pharmaceutical proteins because they offer several potential advantages, including low production costs, ease of scale-up to commercial quantities of production and reduced risk of product contamination by mammalian viruses or toxins. In this chapter, we discuss the technological basis of molecular farming in plants, with a focus on host systems and approaches/strategies developed to maximize protein yields and to ensure efficient recovery and purification of plant-made recombinant products.

45 ref

043634   DEY S, DUTTA G , CHAKRABORTY R , SAHA G (Agricultural Meteorology and Physics Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal) : Climate friendly cultivation of baby corn in gangetic Bengal. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 316-21.

A field experiment was conducted during pre kharif season, 2017 and 2018 to study the production potentiality of Baby corn in Gangetic Bengal region. Baby corn variety G-5414 was sown on D₁ (7^th February) and D₂ (23^rd February) of 2017 and 2018 under three spacing levels S₁ (40×25 cm), S₂ (30×20 cm), S₃ (25×15 cm) and two nitrogen levels N₁ (140 kg N/ha) and N₂ (120 kg N/ha). All the treatments had crucial role to change the canopy architecture and geometry resulting change in micro environment in baby corn. Through the analysis of canopy ambient temperature differential (CATD) ( ℃) availability of water during the life span of the crop was measured. Profound effect of different spacing, nitrogen dose, date of sowing was also evident on different micro-climatic parameters like canopy temperature, PAR interception (%). Among the various plant spacing, 25×15 cm showed better response in case growth characteristics such as plant height, no of functional leaves plant^-1 , cob length, cob diameter and dehusked cob weight. But in case of no of cobs plant1 and weight of husked cob, 40×25 cm spacing was superior compared to others. A decreasing trend was observed in case of husked, dehusked, and green fodder yield with widening of plant spacing. Maximum husked, dehusked, green fodder yield was recorded 44.5 t ha^-1 , 9.72 t ha^-1 and 27.76 t ha^-1 for 25×15 cm spacing whereas it was only 23.0 t ha^-1 4.38 t ha^-1 and 22.84 t ha^-1 for 40×25 cm respectively. Nitrogen level 140 kg N/ha perform better for all yield attributing traits compared to 120 kg N/ha except for plant height. Yield of husked baby corn was maximum for 120 kg N/ha treatment (32.72 t ha^-1 ) followed by 140 kg N/ha (31.86 t ha^-1 ). In case of dehusked baby corn yield and green fodder yield both the nitrogen doses showed more or less same performance.In case of D₂ crops shows greater values for all production components compared to D₁ in both years. Plant shown on 23^rd February (D₂) recorded highest value for the yield of husked baby corn (38.05 t ha^-1 ) and dehusked baby corn (7.59 t ha^-1 ) followed by the plants of 1^st date of sowing 26.53 t ha^-1 and 5.87 t ha^-1 respectively.

7 illus, 8 tables, 14 ref

043633   JAKKARAY, HANUMANTHASWAMY BC , SHARANABASAPPA , ADIVAPPAR N (Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Univ, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Seasonal incidence of lepidopteran pests in french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 312-5.

Seasonal incidence of lepidopteran pests in French bean was studied at Krishi Vgyana Kendra farm, University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Shivamogga. During Kharif, the bean pod borer, Maruca vitrata and lablab leaf webber, Omoides indicata was commenced from the first week of September (36^th MSW) and second week of August (32^nd MSW), respectively. The lowest population of M. vitrata was recorded in first week of September i.e., 1.20 larvae per plant (36^th MSW) and highest was recorded in the last week of September (39^th MSW) with 2.30 larvae per plan and showed a significant negative correlation with the minimum relative humidity (r = -0.690), whereas O. indicata population was minimum (0.80) in the second week of August and maximum (1.52) in the last week of September (39^th MSW), however a significant positive effect of maximum temperature was found on the population of O. indicata. During Rabi, M. vitrata incidence started from first week of January (1st MSW) and continued till January last week (5^th MSW) and O. indicata was first observed during the December second week (50^th MSW). The lowest and highest population of bean pod borer was 0.35 larvae per plant noticed in January first week (36^th MSW) and 1.89 larvae per plant in the third week (3^rd MSW), respectively and these population had significant negative correlation with minimum relative humidity (r = -0.732). The minimum and maximum population of O. indicata was 0.20 and 1.40 larvae per plant recorded in the second week of December (50^th MSW) and last week of January (5^th MSW), respectively and got significant positive effect from maximum temperature (r = 0.794). The remaining weather parameters showed non-significant relationship with lepidopteran pest population during both Kharif and Rabi 2019-20.

6 tables, 17 ref

043632   HIREMATH J , GANGADHARAPPA PM , HEGDE NK , KUKANOOR L , MASTIHOLI AB , SHIRAGUR M , AWATI M (KRC Coll of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Karnataka) : Role of bio-formulations in combination with inorganic and organic nutrient sources in enhancement of morpho-physiological characters and root yield in safed musli (Chlorophytum borivilianum Sant. & Fernand.). Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 307-11.

A field study was conducted during 2018-19 on “Effect of integrated nutrient management (INM) on morpho-physiological and yield of safed musli” at KRC college of Horticulture, Arabhavi, Gokak, Karnataka. The research results revealed that plant supplied with panchagavya recorded maximum leaf area (581.57 cm² ), leaf area index (1.29), CGR (2.13 g m² day^-1 at 30-60 DAP), fresh root yield (31.15 g plant^-1 and 33.42 q ha^-1 ), dry root yield (5.77 q ha-1 ) and fresh peeled root yield (21.34 g plant^-1 ). Among inorganic and organic source of nutrients application, 100 per cent RD NPK 50:40:40 kg ha^-1 recorded significantly maximum leaf area (635.71 cm² ), LAI (1.41), CGR (3.47 g m²day^-1 ), significantly fresh root yield (36.16 g plant^-1 and 36.26 q ha^-1 , respectively), fresh peeled root yield (26.40 g plant^-1 ) and dry root yield of 6.33 q ha^-1 . Among interaction, application of panchagavya (3 %) + 100 per cent RD NPK 50:40:40 kg ha^-1 recorded significantly maximum leaf area (671.05 cm² ), LAI (1.49), CGR (3.70g m²day^-1 ), significantly highest fresh peeled root yield (30.51g plant^-1 ) and fresh root yield (38.34 q ha^-1 ).

1 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

043631   KOWSHIKA N , SANKAR T, PRADIPA C (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Evaluating banana and mango cultivation in Tamil Nadu to determine their efficient cropping zones. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 298-306.

Fruits have always been an integral part of our diet, rich with all the nutrients essential for human body. Indian horticultural sector is excelling with two major fruit crops viz., banana and mango, dominating the global market. For both the crops, Tamilnadu holds a prime place in production and changes in the share of these crops could affect the national GDP. Trend analysis of area, production and productivity was done to understand the performance of banana and mango. It was observed that the trend of banana and mango cultivation in Tamilnadu is growing rapidly over the years (1985-2015). Identifying Efficient Cropping Zones for both the crops in the recent 15 years (2001-2015) was also done using the calculated Relative Spread Index and Relative Yield Index. Banana crop was efficiently grown in Tiruchirappalli, Thanjavur, Pudukkottai, Madurai, Theni, Thoothukudi, Coimbatore, Karur, Tirunelveli and Kanniyakumari districts. But concern has to be taken over Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts, which are at a risk of losing their status. Thiruvallur, Vellore, Dharmapuri, Krishnagiri, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul and Tirunelveli districts were possessing good performance under Mango cultivation during the study period. Vellore and Theni districts have given a positive evolution in mango cropping, but Kanniykumari had a setback. Efficient Cropping Zone analysis of both the fruit crops was able to determine the need for storage and processing facilities on the zones. Export regulations can also be created for the farmers of both the crops to reach global market.

9 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

043630   YOGEESHAPPA H, SRINIVASAMURTHY CA (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Horticulture Coll, Bagalkot, Karnataka) : Yield and nutrient uptake of vegetable crops as influenced by application of human and cattle urine for nutrients sources. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 294-7.

The field experiments were conducted with an application of human urine and cattle urine as nutrients sources. Ashgourd (Benincase hispida Thunb.) Cong.), french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.), pole bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and pumpkin (Cucurbita maxima) which were grown as test crop. The experimental geographical area had been situated between 13o 292´ North latitude 77o 543´ East longitude and an altitude of 880 meters (2,890 ft) above mean sea level at Bangalore rural district (Karnataka, India). The experiment had 14 treatment combinations to study the effect of repeated application of human urine and cattle urine on yield and nutrient uptake of vegetable crops. Among the treatments application of recommended dose of nitrogen through human urine in three split doses plus gypsum recorded higher yield (39.2, 14.2, 17.4 and 38.7 t ha–1, for ashgourd, french bean, pole bean and pumpkin, respectively).

6 tables, 17 ref

043629   HALIM MA, NABI MM , MONDAL DK (Bangabandhu Academy for Poverty Alleviation and Rural Development, Gopalganj-8110, Bangladesh) : Floodplain aquaculture and its potentiality in Bangladesh: A review. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 289-93.

Floodplain water-bodies are one of the major common-pool resources (CPRs) of Bangladesh. Floodplain aquaculture can generate income, employment and food security. It can also contribute significantly to alleviate rural poverty. Floodplain aquaculture continues to diversify and develop rapidly. It has seen as the most realistic way to secure the nation's future fish supply. The current review depicts the production and economic performance of floodplain aquaculture of Bangladesh. It has many positive effects on local economies, social security and safety as well as nutritional status. The study concluded that Government initiative can be the way of utilizing the huge number of floodplain as potential aquatic resources.

3 tables, 25 ref

043627   SINCHANA KS, THIPPESHA D , NAIK B H , PRADEEP S , USHA TN ( Horticulture Dep, Agriculture Coll, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Standardization of time of layering and IBA concentration on rooting and establishment of air layers of Guava cv. Lalit under southern transitional zone of Karnataka. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 281-4.

The study was conducted to know the exact time of layering and IBA concentration on rooting and establishment of air layers of Guava cv. Lalit under Southern Transitional Zone of Karnataka during the year 2019-2020 at Guava Mother Block, Organic Farming Research Centre and Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, University of Agriculture and Horticulture Sciences, Shivamogga. The experiment was laid out in Factorial Randomized Completely Block Design having sixteen treatment combinations with four repetitions. The study revealed that, among different time of layering, the minimum number of days for root initiation (38.62), maximum rooting percentage (71.75), maximum number of primary and secondary roots per layer (17.00 and 7.39 respectively), length and diameter of longest root per layer (9.51 cm and 0.84 mm respectively), fresh and dry weight of roots (2.35 g and 0.80 g respectively) observed best in the layers prepared on first fortnight of June. Among different concentration of IBA, the minimum number of days for root initiation (36.75), maximum rooting percentage (77.19) maximum number of primary and secondary roots per layer (18.91 and 8.93 respectively), length and diameter of longest root per layer (10.16 cm and 0.85 mm respectively), fresh and dry weight of roots (2.56 g and 0.98 g respectively) was recorded best with 4500 ppm IBA concentration. On the basis of the results obtained in the present investigation, air layering performed during first fortnight of June, treated with 4500 ppm IBA concentration have been found significantly superior compared to other treatments under Southern Transitional Zone of Karnataka.

2 tables, 13 ref

043626   SACHIN H, LAKSHMANA D , DEVARAJU , KOLAKAR S S , NAGARAJA NR , SATISH KM , FAIZAN M (ICAR-CPCRI, Dakshina kannada, Karnataka) : Genetic variability studies for seed quality in eggplant genotypes. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 277-80.

The current experiment was conducted at College of Horticulture, Mudigere under lab condition to assess the genetic variability for seed quality traits in nineteen eggplant genotypes. Analysis of variance indicated significant variation for all the characters at p ≥ 5 per cent and p ≥ 1 per cent. All the parameters viz., days taken for germination, germination (%), shoot length (cm), root length (cm), root to shoot ratio, seedling fresh weight (mg), seedling dry weight (mg), seedling vigour index-I and seedling vigour index-II had shown high phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation and high broad sense heritability tied with high genetic advance over mean. The results indicated that there is high genetic constitution of seed influence on particular trait exhibition with less environmental factor impact. Hence, selection at seed germination level would be effective for improvement and there is ample scope for isolation of promising eggplant genotypes from the present incurred plant material.

1 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

043625   SANKAR T , KOWSHIKA N (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore) : Identifying hotspots of coconut cultivation in Tamil Nadu. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 272-6.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera L) is multi-utility horticultural crop both in food and cosmetic industries. The natural oil from coconut competes with other low valuable vegetable oils in the international market due to consequence of globalization and erratic weather. Among the Indian states, viz, Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh are contributing 90 per cent of the total production. Tamil Nadu is leading in productivity and stood 2^nd place in cultivated area among India. In this study, trend analysis on area, production and productivity for 30 year (1985-2015) was done and it was further extended in delineating Efficient Cropping Zones (ECZ) of coconut among the districts of Tamil Nadu during 2001-2015. Relative Yield Index (RYI) and Relative Spread Index (RSI) were used to identify the potential cropping districts. Result revealed that trends in area, production and productivity showed an increasing drift with over the years. Even though, production and productivity of coconut showed fluctuations during the mid-period of study, overall growth rate of 35.0 per cent, 29.2 percent, 42.0 percent was observed in coconut area, production and productivity for entire state. Identification of hotspot areas revealed that Coimbatore, Tirupur, Vellore, Thanjavur, Madurai, Theni, Dindigul, Tirunelveli, Kanniyakumari, Krishnagiri, Dharmapuri, Salem, Viruthunagar and Sivagangai districts found to be most efficient cropping zones for cultivation. Findings inferred that the increasing trend of coconut area, production and productivity has brought new challenges for marketing and transporting. Hence, this study helps government and policy makers to create an opportunity regarding coconut-based marketing at efficient places.

3 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

043624   MANOJ KN , SHEKARA BG , SHOBA D , MURTHY KN K , MUDALAGIRIYAPPA , PRAKASHA HC (Agronomy Dep, UAS, Bengaluru, Karnataka) : Qualitative forage production potential of different cereal and legume fodder crops under southern dry zone of Karnataka. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 268-71.

A field experiment was conducted to identify the fodder crops having higher potential for quality green fodder production during kharif, rabi and summer seasons of 2018-19. The treatments consist of nine different fodder crops which were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that, significantly higher green fodder and dry matter yields were noticed with bajra Napier hybrid (1246.8 and 244.4 q/ha) followed by maize (1030 and 211 q/ha) compared to other crops. But, sesbania and lucerne fodder recorded significantly higher crude protein (22.2 and 20.53 %), ash (11.12 and 10.57 %) and ether extractable fat (3.75 and 3.14 %) content while dry matter and crude fibre content was observed in sorghum fodder (23.01 and 34.49 %). However, significantly higher non-fibre carbohydrate content was noticed in fodder oats (37.19 %). Withrespect to quality yield, sesbania recorded higher crude protein, total digestible crude protein and fat yields (45.6, 42.2 and 7.7 q/ha, respectively) while higher ash, crude fibre and non-fibre carbohydrate yields were noticed in bajra Napier hybrid crop (25.4, 74.2 and 83.6 q/ha, respectively). Among different crops, bajra Napier hybrid and sesbania performed well in terms of quantitative as well as qualitative fodder.

2 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

043623   MAHAMADALI MG, DUSHYANTHAKUMAR BM , MADHURI R, GANGAPRASAD S, HUGAR AY, MALLIKARJUNA HB (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agriculture Coll, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Assessment of genetic variability, correlation and path coefficients in advanced breeding lines of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under irrigated conditions of command area. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 260-7.

The experiment was conducted during Kharif 2019 across three locations viz., ZAHRS, Shivamogga, AHRS, Honnavile and AHRS, Bavikere to evaluate 29 advanced breeding lines of rice including three checks in randomized complete block design with two replications for variability, correlation and path coefficients analysis for yield and its attributing traits. For all the characters examined, ANOVA reported significant differences among all the advanced breeding lines. For the traits viz., number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle recorded high PCV and GCV values, while for plant height, test weight, L/B ratio and grain yield reported moderate PCV and GCV. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance recorded in traits viz., number of filled grains per panicle, number of spikelets per panicle, test weight, L/B ratio and grain yield. The characters such as number of tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, panicle length, and number of spikelets per panicle, number of filled grains per panicle, panicle fertility, test weight and L/B ratio had a positive significant correlation with grain yield. Six traits out of 12 traits had a positive and direct effect on grain yield viz., days to 50 per cent flowering, number of tillers per plant, panicle length, number of spikelets per panicle, panicle fertility and L/B ratio.

3 illus, 4 tables, 53 ref

043622   KRISHNA S, GANGAPRASAD S , KUMAR D , ADIVAPPAR N , MALLIKARJUNA HB (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agriculture Coll, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Assessment of genetic variability in advanced breeding lines of okra for identification of superior genotypes based on fruit yield and its attributing traits (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 260-4.

The present study in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] was undertaken during Kharif, 2019 at ZAHRS, Navile, UAHS, Shivamogga, to study the extent of genetic variability and identification of superior lines among advanced breeding lines in respect to fruit yield and its attributing characters in F5 lines of different crosses along with checks. The analysis of variance showed a significant amount of variability for all the traits studied in advanced breeding lines. Moderate PCV and GCV were observed for traits viz., number of branches per plant, number of fruits per plant, and fruit weight. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent mean recorded for number of branches per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, and fruit diameter revealed that a very significant improvement is possible through selection for all these characters. On the basis of mean performance for fruit yield and its components three advanced breeding lines namely C₇F₅, 10-11-135 and Parbhani Kranthi, which exhibited higher fruit yield per plant, were identified in the crosses for advancing to the next generation.

5 tables, 23 ref

043621   TRIPTI V , ALKA G (Food Nutrition and Public Health Dep, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh) : A pragmatic role of COVID 19 on Indian society: A review article. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 257-9.

The novel coronavirus have changed the lives of individual and the co-existence of the many as anyone can the carrier of COVID-19 for that social distancing is regarded as the highest civic duty and isolation is demanded by the young to stay fit and in order to protect the weak and elderly. The corona outbreak may be claiming all across the globe for keeping human sealed indoors due to spiralling fear and mass confusion but apart from darker side it has positive effects on Indian society also. The corona pandemic damages the human life in unprecedented manner in the form of virus infection, mental illness, stress management, fatigue, anxiety and depression. Apart from the various negative sides that disrupted our routine life badly and has created challenges for humans but it also has various positive affect also which we should start to consider. lockdown positive outcomes in changing the air quality, brought big opportunity for the Indian economy, lower incidence of crime reports, enforcement on ‘be Indian buy Indian’ and ‘vocal for the local’. Indians started to made conscious choice and intake the immune boosting food was highly demanded across the country. Many people at this time tried to adopt the idea of farming at home because of viral transmission. Ayurveda herbal medicine has best potential and possibilities to be employed for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 thus India’s traditional immunotherapy approach and adopted globally Various Evidence Based study showed that India can filled its financial loss as by becoming vocal for local to purchase Indian products. Being optimistic, India focuses on various opportunities coming forward to accelerate its economic condition through uplift the medical facilities by the application of 4Ts like Tracing, Testing, Tracking, and Treatment has yield great result also so the Indian citizen doing their job well and contribute their effort in improving the financial well built.

10 ref

043620   YADAV P, PANDIARAJ T , KUMAR V , SINGH DK , TIWARI A , SINGH P (A.N.D Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh) : Green manuring as a booster for improvement of soil fertility and feasible method for reduction of global warming causing chemical fertilizer. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 254-6.

Green manure crops tender a vast scope of benefits to soil and future crops. They are commonly used to improve the soil, for organic matter, nutrients or to control weeds. The benefits of a green manure crop outweigh the nutrients that they add back into the soil. They also feed the soil, which feeds the plant rather than the other way around. In feeding the soil, a green manure crop feeds all the soil organisms and improves the fertility of the soil. A biologically fertile soil produces healthy plants that able to resist disease and combat pests in addition to a healthy soil has more drought resistant. By growing green manures you provide soil microbes with a boost as well as food and an environment they can thrive in. These microbes will convert the nutrients in the green manure into available nutrients for crops. By stimulating these soil organisms and proving a food source, they also convert the unavailable nutrients in the soil into available nutrients. Hence, green manure is a viable and feasible source as a not just soil conditioner to improve the soil fertility, but also ecofriendly thereby curtails the chemical fertilizer added to a soil.

4 ref

043619   YANKANCHI P P , LAKSHMANA D , DHANALASHMI TN , ONKARAPPA S , PRAKASH K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Horticulture Coll, Shivamogga, Karnataka) : Genetic variability studies for yield and its components in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) germplasm. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 251-3.

The present investigation in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) was carried out during kharif season of 2019-20 for yield and its components. Analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the traits under study. The estimate of phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was high (>20 %) for number of flowers per cluster, fruit length, fruit girth and fruit weight whereas, genotypic coefficient of variation was high (>20 %) for fruit length, fruit girth and fruit weight indicates the presence of high variability for these traits and offered better scope for improvement through selection. Low PCV and GCV (60 %) coupled with high genetic advance as percent over mean (>20 %) was observed for number of secondary branches per plant, number of flowers per cluster, number of clusters per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit weight and fruit yield indicating that these traits were governed by additive genes and there is scope for improving these characters with direct selection.

3 tables, 12 ref

043618   SINGH H (Fruit Science Dep, Dr. YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan Himachal Pradesh) : Use of chemicals in fruit crops for dormancy induction: A Review. Int J Ecol Environ Sci 2020, 2(4), 249-50.

There is a fast rate in the change in the climatic conditions. With the change in the weather conditions, the behavior of plants and the trend in their growth also changes. The growing of temperate fruit crops with low chilling requirement in the sub-tropical areas is being practiced at many places. The sufficient period of rest is important for the deciduos plants to bloom and bear the fruits. The dormancy in these plants is not attained at right time due to warmer sub-tropical climates. Thus, following this plants also show delayed flower and fruit bearing. Thus, manual application of chemicals for the defoliation of these deciduous plants is being practiced at many places to make plants enter into dormancy at right time. Chemicals like Urea, zinc sulphate, copper sulphate, HCN etc showed variable results in induction of dormancy in these fruit plants. Some work pertaining to this has been review under in the article.

8 ref