046481   MORRIS J B, TONNIS B D, WANG M L (Agriculture Dep, Agricultural Research Service, Georgia, United States, Email: brad.morris@usda.gov) : Protein content and seed trait analysis in a subset of the USDA, ARS, PGRCU cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) walp.] core collection. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 495-500.

Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] is used as a vegetable and feedcrop worldwide, but knowledge is limited regarding the variability and correlations for protein and seed traits within a cowpea core collection. We analyzed protein content and seed trait data from the cowpea core collection representing 111 accessions. The accession PI 354729 produced the significantly highest protein content of 25.527 %. Eight Indian cowpea accessions produced significantly high protein content averaging 24.423 %. Protein content was significantly correlated with seed pattern (r ² = 0.274***), seed texture (r ² = 0.346***), seed coat color (r ² = 0.136*) and seed pattern significantly correlated with seed texture (r ² = 0.197**). However, protein content showed a significant negative correlation (r ² =-0.333***) with 100 seed weight. One hundred seed weight (gm) showed significantly negative correlations with seed pattern (r ² = -0.191**) and seed texture (r ² = -0.265***). Seed coat color showed a significant negative correlation with seed pattern (r ² = -0.14**). Based on these results, potential cowpea cultivars could be developed with improved protein content and morphological seed traits.

1 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

046480   CHAUHAN S, MITTAL R K, SOOD V K, PATIAL R (Crop Improvement Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur- 176 062, Email: thakurshilpa627@gmail.com) : Evaluation of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in blackgram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 488-94.

An attempt was made to study blackgram germplasm with an objective to develop genetically diverse genotypes accompanied with high heritable components of yield contributing traits. The experimental material comprised of 21 blackgram genotypes, was examined during kharif 2015 and 2016. Experimental study conducted during kharif 2015, was mainly relied on selection of transgressive segregants, which were further analyzed in Compact Family Block Design during kharif 2016. The results depicted that families and progenies within families were significantly different for majority of the traits and found to be highly variable for biological yield, harvest index and seed yield. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance were recorded for plant height (74.15 %, 33.12 %), branches per plant (84.34 %, 40.55 %), biological yield (83.51 %, 69.11 %) and seed yield (84.50 %, 66.11 %). Thus, the present findings could be beneficial to develop superior genotypes through selection in blackgram breeding program

5 tables, 26 ref

046479   DEVI R, MITTAL R K, SOOD V K, SHARMA P N (Crop Improvement Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agriculture Univ, Palampur- 176 062, Email: rajnidevi037@gmail.com) : Genetic diversity analysis of advanced breeding lines derived from interspecific and intervarietal crosses of black gram based on morphological and molecular markers. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 480-7.

The main objective of this study was to assess the genetic diversity of 34 genotypes comprising of 25 advanced derivatives of interspecific cross between V. mungo x V. umbellata, five intervarietal crosses along with four checks (including blackgram parents) using 11 morphological traits and molecular markers (RAPD and ISSR) and for their resistance towards Cercospora, anthracnose and MYMV. The lines Palampur-93 x BRS-1 (236-A-L-1-4), HPBU-35 and HPBU-111 were found statistically at par to the best check Him Mash-1 for seed yield. Correlation studies revealed that the selection should be based on large seeds, more number of pods per plant and more number of seeds per pod indicating the importance of these traits in yield determination. The cluster analysis on molecular basis grouped the blackgram parents and advance lines differently than at morphological level which revealed genetic variation among genotypes and also confirmed that rigorous selection had been made for blackgram types in segregating generations rather than ricebean types as most of the advance derivatives of V. mungo x V. umbellata were found to be concentrated near blackgram parents. The lines PDU-1 x PRR-1 (62-3-L-10-1) and Palampur-93 x PRR-1 (258-1L-2-5) were found resistant to both Cercospora and anthracnose while, Palampur-93 x BRS-1 (236-A-L-3-2) for MYMV. The information generated from this study would be helpful in characterizing the advanced derived lines and parents in the selection and utilization of diverse genotypes to enhance variability and productivity along with resistance breeding of V. mungo.

5 illus, 8 tables, 21 ref

046478   KANWAR R, MEHTA D K, SHARMA R, DOGRA R K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan- 173 230, Email: intangiblekanwar07@gmail.com) : Studies on genetic diversity of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) landraces of Himachal Pradesh based on morphological traits and molecular markers. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 470-9.

The knowledge of the extent of underlying diversity in the germplasm can be effectively employed to breed desirable cultivars and to challenge the consequences of the unprecedented biological, physical and chemical stresses of the future growing conditions. In the present study, total 26 geographically diverse French bean genotypes collected from different agro-climatic zones of Himachal Pradesh and two check varieties viz., Baspa and Jawala were grown under randomized complete block design with three replications for deciphering the extent of genetic diversity. The extent of variability was assessed using DUS morphological traits and PCR based approach. Analysis of variance for quantitative traits showed significant differences among all the genotypes for all the characters studied. The genotypes RL-19 and RL-20 gave higher seed yield and performed better for many of the horticultural traits over all the checks. Further, 15 RAPD primers were used for scoring polymorphism at the DNA level. The French bean landraces produced 79 PCR fragments, of which 59 were polymorphic with an average of 3.93 polymorphic fragments per primer. The overall percentage of polymorphism was recorded 74.62 per cent. The average Jaccard similarity index among genotypes ranged from 0.48 to 0.98, thereby showing sufficient genetic variability. Geographical affiliations and morphological associations were observed while studying the genotypic patterns within each group i.e. A, B, C and D. Such variability is desirable in breeding programs.

3 illus, 8 tables, 22 ref

046477   SHUKLA U N, MISHRA M L (Agriculture Coll, Jodhpur- 342 304, Email: umanaths7@gmail.com) : Present scenario, bottlenecks and expansion of pulse production in India: A review. Legum Res 2020, 43(4), 461-9.

India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses in the world, accounting for about 25 % of global production, 27 % of consumption and 34 % of food use. More than two-third area and production has been obtained from the six states of India viz., Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. India is leading importer and about 20 % of the total pulses demands are met by imports only due to the stagnant production over the years. To reduce the demand-supply gap, government of India launched various programmes in pulses. However, prime attention is required to meet the food security challenges, especially in case of pulse production. These crops are only the option to cure the sick land which is ill by chemical based modern cultivation. In order to enhance and sustain the pulse productivity at high levels, the development and promotion of pulse production technology need greater attention so that technology is widely adopted by the majority of farmers. The paper addresses the present scenario, bottleneck and focus on the way forward for sustaining/improving pulses production in India.

5 illus, 8 tables, 27 ref

046476   REENA, SHARMA M, JAMWAL S , KUMAR A , SINGH M, SINHA B K (SKUAST-Jammu, Bari Brahmana- 181 133, Email: bkreena12@gmail.com) : Managing chickpea wilt Fusarium oxysporum through use of biorationals. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 452-7.

The three agro-climatic zones of Jammu were surveyed and potential pesticidal plants / plant materials were collected. Their methanolic extracts were prepared following the standard procedure of refluxing, distillation and fractionation. They were assessed for antifungal activity against chickpea wilt, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. ciceri by poisoned food technique. Among the 64 plant parts assessed, Arisaema flavum root / tuber extract (4.0 mm) recorded lowest radial growth, followed by Boerrhavia diffusa root extracts (6.0 mm) and Arisaema flavum stem + leaves extract (8.0 mm). Accordingly, Arisaema flavum roots / tubers extract also exhibited 95.55% and its leaves recorded 91.00 % inhibition. Boerrhavia diffusa stem and root extracts again exhibited 94.5 per cent inhibition, while Achyranthes aspera root exhibited 91.11 % inhibition. These extracts / fractions have great potential to be developed as botanical pesticide that can greatly benefit human beings in multifarious ways.

3 illus, 7 tables, 17 ref

046475   BILDIRICI N (Yuzuncu Yil Univ, Gevas-Van, Turkey, Email: numanbildirici@yyu.edu.tr) : Effect of bacterial inoculation and different phosphorus doses on yield components and yield of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 446-51.

This research was carried out in 2014-15 to determine yield and yield components of Azkan chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties with four different phosphorus doses and rhizobium bacteria in Van-Gevaş ecological conditions. The experiment was established as a randomized block design with three replications. The results of the research indicated that inoculation and phosphorus doses affected plant height, height of first pods, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of grain per plant and grain yield significantly. Grain yield averages ranged between 1556.10-1682.30 kg ha^-1 in the first year and 1628.90-1677.30 kg ha^-1 in the second year. When the results of inoculation and phosphorus doses were examined, the highest grain yield in both the years (1894.90- 1867.70 kg ha^-1, respectively) was obtained with 80 kg ha^-1 phosphorus doses applied to inoculated plots. Increases in inoculation and phosphorus doses increased the grain yield.

8 tables, 27 ref

046474   BONNEY P, ELEBLU J S Y, EZIAH V (Ghana Univ, Accra, Ghana, Email: jeleblu@wacci.ug.edu.gh) : Screening of 25 cowpea genotypes for resistance to Megalurothrips sjostedti Trybom in southern Ghana. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 440-5.

In sub-Saharan Africa, Megalurothrips sjostedti Trybom are the most destructive insect pest of cowpea. It causes approximately 100 % reduction in cowpea yield. Synthetic insecticides are widely used in controlling this pest, however, health and environmental hazards are another challenge. This study sought to evaluate 25 cowpea genotypes from Ghana, Mali, Nigeria, Niger, Burkina Faso, Togo and South-Sudan for resistance to this pest under field screening using a 5 by 5 alpha lattice design with 2 checks at University of Ghana farms. The results revealed Laduni 1B as resistant, 20 moderately resistant and 4 susceptible genotypes were also identified in this study. In the determination of correlated and non-correlated variables, ten traits were reported important to the resistance of cowpea genotypes to flower bud thrips. The genotypes with resistance could be used to introgress the resistant trait into other preferred but susceptible cowpea varieties.

2 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

046473   KUMAR S, SINGH R N, KUMAR S, KUMAR P (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Samastipur- 848 113, Email: sanjay4b1967@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) in changing climatic condition of Bihar. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 436-9.

A field experimental was conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Khodawandpur as well as Gadhpura and Barauni blocks of Begusarai district to study the effect of integrated nutrient management for sustaining the productivity of pigeon pea [Cajanus cajan (L.) mill sp.] under rainfed conditions. Growth and yield attributing characters viz., plant height, yield induced such as days to 50% flowering, branches/plant, leaf area, pods/plant, pod length, number of grains/pod, 100 seed weight, grain and stalk yield and benefit-cost ratio were significantly higher at recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) than organic manure and bio fertilizer. Application of RDF with vermi compost @ 2 tones/ha, Farm Yard Manure (FYM) @ 5.0 tones/ha and bio-fertilizer singly and combined enhanced the yield attributes grain yield parameters. Seed inoculation with Rhizobium + phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) alone or combined inoculation were found effective and significantly enhanced the yield attributing and grain and stalk yield of pigeon pea.

4 tables, 10 ref

046472   AKIL D, OKANT M (Field Crops Dep, Harran Univ, Sanliurfa, Turkey, Email: mokant63@yahoo.com) : Effect of planting times growth and yield of white Lupen (Lupinus albus L.). Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 432-5.

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different sowing times on growth and yield characters of white lupine (Lupinus albus L.). The experiment was carried out in the Field Crops Experimen Station at Eyyubiye campus of Harran University during 2017- 2018 semi-arid season. In the study, four different sowing times (30 October, 15 November, 30 November and 15 December) were evaluated in randomized complete blocks design with 4 replications. The results revealed that the impact of different sowing times on fresh herb and hay yield, 100 seed weight (gr) and seed yield of white lupine plant was statistically significant, but did not impact on crude protein, hay, crude protein in the seed, plant height and number of branches per plant. Overall, the results suggested that white lupen planted at the end of November could successfully be grown in Şanlıurfa conditions.

2 tables, 17 ref

046471   ISLAM M, NATH L K, SAMAJDAR T (ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam- 793 103, Email: mislam01d@yahoo.co.in) : Sustainable diversification of maize (Zea mays L.) -legumes cropping systems for productivity, profitability and resource use efficiency in West Garo Hills of Meghalaya, India. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 427-31.

A field experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm of ICAR- Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Tura during kharif, pre-rabi and rabi season of 2011-12 to 2013-14 to determine the suitable production potential, profitability, resource use efficiency and sustainability of diversified maize-legumes cropping system. The five cropping sequences viz., CS₁ : maize + blackgram (1:2) – green gram + maize (2:1) – tomato, CS₂ : maize + green gram (1:2) – green gram + maize (2:1) – tomato, CS₃ : maize + groundnut (1:2) – green gram + maize (2:1) – tomato, CS₄ : maize + Ssybean (1:2) – tomato and CS₅ : maize sole – green gram – tomato were replicated four times using a randomized block design on sandy loam soil with low to medium fertility level and slightly acidic in reaction. The cropping system “maize + green gram (1:2) – green gram + maize (1:1) – tomato” was found to be most remunerative and sustainable with system productivity (175.49 q/ha), net return (Rs.3,38,725/ha), profitability (Rs. 928.01 /ha/day), benefit cost ratio (4.40), sustainable yield index (1.00), production efficiency (Rs.58.30/ha/day), relative economic efficiency (162.72 %), except land use efficiency (LUE) which was the highest (85.75 %) in “maize + groundnut (1:2) – green gram + maize (1:1) – tomato” cropping system. The lowest system productivity, net returns, profitability, production efficiency, land use efficiency etc was found in maize+ soybean (1:2)- tomato followed by maize-greengram-tomato cropping system. Hence, the cropping sequence maize + green gram(1:2) – green gram + maize (1:1) – tomato and maize + groundnut (1:2) – green gram + maize (1:1) – tomato were found to be the productive, profitable, remunerative, resource use efficient and sustainable in the mid hills sub-tropical regions of India

1 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

046470   XIA F S, WANG Y C, WANG F, WANG C C, ZHU H S, LIU M, HUAI Y M, DONG K H (Agronomy Dep, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar- 125 004, Email: akshitrathore43@gmail.com) : Effect of potassium and boron fertilization on growth, forage yield and quality of Berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.). Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 421-6.

The field experiment was conducted during rabi season of 2017-18 at the Forage Research Farm of Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar with the objective to study the effect of potassium and boron fertilization on growth, forage yield and quality of berseem. Treatment combinations comprised of four potassium levels i.e. 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg K2O ha^-1 and four levels of boron i.e. 0, 2, 4 kg B ha^-1, and 0.2 % B spray at flowering initiation and at 50 % flowering. The experiment was laid out in split plot design and replicated thrice. Growth characters improved with the application of potassium and boron. Maximum green fodder (444.24 q ha^-1) and dry matter yields (55.32 q ha^-1) were obtained when berseem was fertilized with 40 kg K₂O ha^-1. Crude protein yield was highest with 60 kg K₂O ha^-1 (10.29 q ha^-1) and digestible dry matter at 40 kg K₂O ha^-1 (37.19 q ha^-1). Incremental dose of applied boron resulted in a significant improvement in green fodder and dry matter yields upto 2 kg B ha^-1. Significant interaction effects of potassium and boron on total green fodder and total dry matter yields indicated better effects with the combination of 40 kg K₂O ha^-1 and 2 kg B ha^-1 .

7 tables, 19 ref

046469   XIA F S, WANG Y C, WANG F, WANG C C, ZHU H S, LIU M, HUAI Y M, DONG K H (Shanxi Agricultural Univ, Shanxi Province- 030 801, China, Email: dongkuanhu@126.com) : Effect of boron priming on the seed vigour in different varieties of Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 415-20.

This experiment was designed to determine the influence of boron priming on seed vigour in thirteen varieties of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.). Alfalfa seeds were primed with 1.8 % (W/V) concentration of borax solution for 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 24 h at 20$°$C. The results showed that the original vigour of alfalfa seeds was disparate in thirteen varieties and there were highly significant (P<0.01) differences observed in both varieties and priming time and their interactions on the vigour of the seeds. Alfalfa seeds of WL525HQ and WL656HQ might be more sensitive to boron toxicity, but seeds of WL298HQ, WL343HQ, WL354HQ, WL903 and Pianguan were insensitive to boron toxicity. Thus, it is necessary to carefully select appropriate varieties of alfalfa seeds for the application of boron priming.

5 tables, 26 ref

046468   ZHOU H, ZHENG D, FENG N, XIANG H, LIU Y, LIANG X (Guangdong Ocean Univ, Guangdong- 524 088, Email: byndzdf@126.com) : Grain yield in Mungbean (Vigna radiata) is associated with spatial distribution of root dry weight and volume. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 408-14.

Root system is an important plant organ affecting yield and the degree of influence of roots on yield in different spatial locations in the soil is different. The aim of this study was to research the spatial distribution characteristics of mung bean root and to analyze the correlation between spatial distribution of root and yield. The roots of mung bean in 0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20 and 20-25 cm horizontal soil layers and in 0-20, 20-40, 40-60, 60-80 and 80-100 cm vertical soil layers were collected to analyze spatial distribution characteristics of root volume and root dry weight at full flowering stage and full pod stage. Yield and yield components were measured at maturity. Our study showed that approximately 48.4%~65.2 % of the mung bean root were in 0-5 cm horizontal soil layer and about 73.2 % ~ 82.3 % were in 0-20 cm vertical soil layer. Yield of mung bean exhibited significantly positive correlation with number of pods per plant. The root volume density of mung bean in 20-25 cm horizontal soil layer at full flowering stage exhibited significantly positive correlation with yield. These findings could be used to provide scientific basis for cultivating high-yield mung bean varieties with excellent root system.

8 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

046467   JAIDKA M, DEOL J S, KAUR R, SIKKA R (ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi- 110 012, Email: ramaan180103@yahoo.com) : Source-sink optimization and morpho-physiological response of soybean [Glycine max] to detopping and mepiquat chloride application. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 401-7.

Effect of detopping and mepiquat chloride on morphological, physiological and yield attributes of soybean cultivar ‘SL 544’ was studied. A two year investigation was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, during kharif seasons of 2014 and 2015. The experiment was laid-out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with eight treatments viz. control, detopping (removal of 4- 5 cm apical portion of main stem) at 50-55 days after sowing (DAS), mepiquat chloride @ 200 ppm (50-55 DAS), mepiquat chloride @ 200 ppm (50-55 + 65-70 DAS), mepiquat chloride 250 ppm (50-55 DAS), mepiquat chloride @ 250 ppm (50-55 + 65-70 DAS), mepiquat chloride @ 300 ppm (50-55 DAS) and mepiquat chloride @ 300 ppm (50-55 + 65-70 DAS) with four replications. Detopping had a non-significant effect on leaf area index, SPAD value, PAR interception, abscission of reproductive parts, seeds per pod, 100- seed weight, pod length and stover yield of soybean. It significantly decreased plant height, increased total dry matter accumulation/ plant, number of flowers and pods/plant, pod setting percentage and seed yield over control during 2014 and 2015. At crop harvest, detopping developed optimized source-sink relationship by means of distribution of total dry matter between stem, foliage and pods by 20.4, 14.9 and 64.6 % during 2014 while 22.6, 20.1 and 57.4 % during 2015, respectively. Mepiquat chloride posed a nonsignificant effect on plant height, PAR interception, number of flowers/plant, number of seeds/pod, pod length and stover yield of soybean but it significantly decreased leaf area index, abscission of reproductive parts while increased the dry matter accumulation/ plant, number of pods/plant, 100-seed weight and seed yield relative to control. At harvest, two foliar applications of mepiquat chloride @ 250 ppm resulted in optimized source-sink relationship by the distribution of total dry matter among stem, foliage and pods by 20.6, 10.9 and 68.5 % during 2014 while 19.5, 7.6 and 72.9 % during 2015, respectively. Occurrence of more rainfall during 2015 as compared to 2014 caused mepiquat chloride to hike seed yield as compared to detopping which is clearly witnessed by increase in pod dry weight per plant during 2015 than 2014. Conclusively, both detopping and mepiquat chloride resulted in enhancement in source-sink relationship and seed yield of soybean.

1 illus, 7 table, 13 ref

046466   JASSAL R K, SINGH H (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: jassalrupinderkaur9@gmail.com) : Influence of primed seed and varying seed rate on growth and productivity of soybean (Glycine max L.) under different planting techniques. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 394-400.

An experiment was conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during 2015 and 2016 to study the effect of priming, different seed rate on growth and seed yield of soybean planted under bed and flat method. The study was planned in factorial split plot design, keeping two planting techniques (flat sowing and bed sowing) and two seed priming treatments (non primed seeds and 100 ppm GA₃ primed seeds) in main plot and three seed levels ( 50, 62.5 and 75 kg ha^-1) in sub plot. The objective of the study was to evaluate the effect of seed priming on growth and productivity under different planting techniques with the use of varying seed rates. The results revealed that growth attributes viz. emergence count, plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index and photosynthetic active radiation interception (%) was significantly higher under bed planting technique as compared to flat sowing method. The pooled seed yield was increased by 15.6 % in bed planted soybean crop as compared to flat planted crop. Soybean seeds primed with 100 ppm GA₃ recorded significant results in all the growth parameters. Primed seed recorded increase in yield 15.3 % than non primed seeds. Seed rate of 62.5 kg ha^-1 recorded significantly higher emergence count, plant height, dry matter accumulation, leaf area index and photosynthetic active radiation interception (%) which was statistically similar in results with 75 kg ha^-1 seed rate in both the two years. Pooled seed yield of 62.5 kg ha^-1 seed rate was 4.61 % higher than 75 kg ha^-1 and 12.6 % than 50 kg ha^-1 seed rate.

4 tables, 14 ref

046465   PAL R S, BHARTIYA A, KANT L, ADITYA J P, MISHRA K K, PATTANAYAK A (Vivekananda Institute of Hill Agriculture, Almora- 263 601, Email: ramesh_bio2006@rediffmail.com) : Common and lesser-known pulses from Northwestern Himalaya: A comparison study for quality traits. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 386-93.

Eight pulses comprising of five common pulses viz., rajma (kidney beans), cowpea (white), cowpea (black), lentil, chickpea and three lesser-known pulses viz., rice bean, horse gram, soybean (black) from Northwestern Himalaya were analyzed for nutritional factors viz. protein, lipid, sugars, tryptophan, starch, antinutritional factors viz., phytic acid, tannins, trypsin inhibitors), antioxidant metabolites and activities viz., Gallic acid, DPPH, ABTS, TAA, FRAP and fatty acid composition. Results showed that horse gram and lentil had higher free radical scavenging and antioxidant activities. Studied pulse oil contained higher concentration of unsaturated fatty acids. PCA revealed that oleic acid, DPPH, ABTS, O/L ratio, antioxidant activities, gallic acid and tannins have positive correlation. Results of the present study showed that, studied lesser-known pulses were at par in nutritional quality with commonly grown pulses and these pulses may acts as a potential source of edible as well as good source of nutrition for livestock and human.

2 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

046464   MAL D, DATTA S, BHAISARE P T, CHATTERJEE R, CHOWDHURY A, JANA J C (Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya Pundibari, Cooch Behar- 736 165, Email: suchanddatta@rediffmail.com) : Performance of cowpea varieties under zero tillage conditions in rice-wheat cropping system. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 378-85.

The present experimentation was undertaken during pre-kharif season of 2013 and 2014 to study the varietal performance of cowpea in rice-wheat cropping system at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibai, Cooch Behar, West Bengal after harvesting of wheat under zero tillage conditions and before rice sowing. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications by using eighteen varieties of cowpea. The result of pooled data revealed that all the growth, yield parameters and quality parameters varied significantly with respect to different varieties of cowpea. The longest and lowest vine length was noticed in Lafa Sundari Bangla (112.10 cm) and VU-5 (32.64 cm), minimum and maximum days for flowering, first harvesting and last harvesting was recorded in Kaberee and Pusa Phalguni Gold. Variety Girija and Deshi Lafa produced longest pod (45.40 cm), highest individual pod weight (14.29 g). For number of pods per plant Triguna (31.07) was found highest which was statistically at par with Kanak (30.70), Kashi Kanchan (29.33). Maximum yield of 18.51 t/ha was obtained from Kashi Kanchan followed by Triguna (17.07 tonnes/ ha) and Kanak (16.69 tonnes/ha). Lafa Sundari Bangala recorded with highest beta carotene content (1037 IU/100 g fresh pod), ascorbic acid content (20.17 mg/100 g fresh pod) as well as highest protein content of 4.69 per cent. Hence, it is concluded that the cowpea variety Kashi Kanchan, Triguna and Kanak may be recommended for commercial cultivation in rice-wheat cropping system under terai zone of West Bengal as they produced higher yield (34.52 %, 24.06 % and 21.29 %, respectively) over the check variety Lafa Sundari Bangla.

4 tables, 32 ref

046463   SURI S K, DWIVEDI M C, PUNIYA R, SHARMA A, KUMAR R, KUMAR J, RAI A P, SINGH V B (Agronomy Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Chatha- 180 009, Email: drmaheshagron@gmail.com) : Production potential and economic feasibility of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.) + sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) intercropping under rainfed ecosystems of Jammu. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 370-7.

An investigation was conducted at Advance Centre for Rainfed Agriculture, Rakh Dhiansar, SKUAST-Jammu during kharif season of 2015. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. The nine treatments viz. sole blackgram, sole sesame, blackgram + sesame (1 row of sesame in 2 rows of blackgram) additive series, blackgram + sesame (1:1) replacement series, black + sesame (3:1) replacement series, blackgram + sesame (5:1) replacement series, blackgram + sesame (1:3) replacement series, blackgram + sesame (1:5) replacement series and blackgram + sesame (seed mix) were taken for study. The soil of experimental field was sandy loam in texture, slightly acidic in reaction, low in organic carbon and available nitrogen and medium in available phosphorus and potassium. The experimental results revealed that among the different intercropping systems blackgram + sesame (5:1) replacement series recorded highest blackgram equivalent yield (BEY) 7.01 q ha^-1 which was statistically at par with blackgram + sesame (3:1) replacement series, blackgram + sesame (1:1) replacement series and blackgram + sesame (1:1) additive series and significantly higher than other intercropping systems. Also blackgram + sesamum (5:1) row ratio gave highest value of land equivalent ratio, aggressivity, area time equivalent ratio, net returns, B:C ratio, energy output, energy use efficiency, net energy return, energy productivity and energy intensity followed by blackgram + sesame (3:1) replacement series.

4 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

046460   JHANJI S, DHINGRA M (Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: shalinijhanji@pau.edu) : Ameliorative effect of thiourea priming on germination characteristics of mungbean (Vigna radiata L.) under water and salinity stress. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 353-8.

The germination behaviour of unsoaked, hydroprimed and thiourea primed seeds (TU-750, 1000 and 1250 ppm) in water , polyethylene glycol (PEG, -0.2 and -0.4 MPa ) and NaCl (30 and 50 mM) was investigated. The per cent germination and seedling growth of TU primed seeds was best compared to other treatments under stressed conditions. The root/shoot ratio increased with stress in all seedlings and vice versa for seedling vigour index. TU primed seeds exhibited the highest tolerance index (85) under -0.2 MPa PEG treatment and 40 tolerance index under 30mM salinity stress. Priming with thiourea @1000 ppm was the most effective in ameliorating water and salinity stress.

2 illus, 6 tables, 33 ref

046455   CHITDESHWARI T, JEGADEESWARI D, SHUKLA A K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore- 641 003, Email: chtihukesh@gmail.com) : Screening groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) genotypes for sulphur efficiency. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 320-5.

A field experiment was conducted on a sandy clay soil to screen eighteen groundnut genotypes for their sulphur (S) efficiency and to know its effect on growth, yield and sulphur availability and uptake. There were two levels of sulphur (0 and 40 kg ha^-1) applied as gypsum basally and replicated thrice in a randomized block design. Results revealed that inclusion of 40 kg S ha^-1 as gypsum significantly improved the growth and yield attributes of all the groundnut genotypes besides increasing the kernel and haulm yield. Soil available sulphur and sulphur uptake by the genotypes were also considerably improved by sulphur addition which differs widely among them. Several indices were computed for assessing the sulphur efficiency and found that, the genotypes, VRI 6, CO 7, TMV 7, TMV 13, VRI 5, VRI 3, CO₂ and CO 6 were found efficient and responsive for sulphur application while VRI 8, and TMV 10 were inefficient but found responsive. However the varieties such as Local, VRI 4, CO 3, VRI 2, VRI 7, TMV 2, ALR 3 and BSR 1 were highly non-responsive and inefficient in utilizing the applied sulphur.

2 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

046453   NANDINI C, SAVITHRAMMA D L, DODDARAJU P, KUMAR P (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Bengaluru- 560 065, Email: nandini.vinutha@gmail.com) : Polymorphic SSR marker identification for water use efficiency in groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.) parental lines. Legum Res 2020, 43(3), 303-11.

Groundnut is world important oilseed crop; productivity is low in the semi-arid regions due to frequent occurrence of drought. Identification of genotypes that have a greater ability to use limited available water is important to enhance productivity of the crop. Water Use Efficiency (WUE) is one such important trait, which increases yield under drought situation. Low level of DNA polymorphism has been detected in most of the laboratories due to allotetraploid nature. In the present study two parental lines of Recombinant Inbred line population NRCG12568 and NRCG12326 diverse for WUE related trait, such as Carbon Isotopic Discrimination ($∆$ 13C), Specific Leaf Area (SLA) and SPAD chlorophyll meter reading were studied for polymorphism using 350 simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. Out of these, only 119 (34 %) markers showed polymorphism in NRCG12568 and NRCG12326. Detection of polymorphism opens up the possibility of use of these markers for QTL map development for $∆$13C in groundnut.

2 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

046451   KAUR K, SAINI K S (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: kuljitkaur91@rediffmail.com) : Solar radiation use efficiency of pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan L.) in relation to crop geometry and varieties. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 298-300.

Pulses are integral part of Indians diet so there is significant need to improve the productivity of pulses for their per capita availability. A research experiment was conducted in kharif 2015, at student research farm, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, Punjab to assess the radiation utilization and productivity of pigeon pea with respect to different row spacings and varieties. It was found that 60 x 21 cm gave significant results in photosynthetically active radiation interception (PARI), canopy temperature, yield and yield components which were due to efficient GDD than other crop geometries. Similarly, determinate variety AL 15 performed significantly better than indeterminate variety PAU 881 in yield contributing components, yield and radiation use efficiency.

2 tables, 8 ref

046450   ISLAMOGLU M (Adiyaman Univ, Adiyaman, Turkey, Email: mislamoglu@adiyaman.edu.tr) : Effects of some abiotic factors on the exit of poppy root weevils (Ethelcus denticulatus Schrank) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from overwintering area. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 294-7.

With this study, it is aimed to determine the effects of some abiotic factors on the exit of poppy root weevils (Ethelcus denticulatus Schrank) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) from their overwintering area. Poppy root weevils is the most important harmful pest of poppy fields (Papaver somniferum L.) (Rhoedales; Papaveraceae). According to the findings, the first adults were seen on the soil on March 10, 2014. It has been observed that as the temperature of the air increases, the number of adults on the soil surface also increases. Thus, it was determined that the number of adults in square meters reached the highest level on April 21, 2014. After this date, it was determined that the number of wintering adults decreased gradually. While the first insect on the surface of the field was caught on March 09, 2015 in the second year. It was determined that the number of highest poppy root weevils caught on the soil surface and in the traps was on April 13, 2015. After this date, it was determined that both the trapped insects and their numbers in m² decreased. There were significant (P$\le$0.05) correlations between the poppy root weevil exit from their overwintering area and soil temperature (r=0.648, r²=0.461, n=84 P=0.000) and temperature (r=0.59, r²=0.277, n=84, P=0.004) whereas there was no significant correlation between it and soil moisture (r=0.310, r²=0.021, n=84, P=0.466), humidity (r=0.32, r²=0.108, n=84, P=0.87) and rain (r=0.38, r²=0.101, n=84, P=0.73).

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

046448   SANDHAM T, MAHAPATRA S, DAS S (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur- 741 252, Email: sunitamahapatra@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of different levels of nitrogen and potassium against leaf spots disease of groundnut in different fertility gradient soil in field. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 283-8.

The occurrence of early and late leaf spots of groundnut under influence of variable soil fertility states with further interaction to different levels of nitrogen and potassium was measured and the same was correlated with the yield attributing parameters. Two different nitrogen and potassium combinations (20; 40 kg ha^-1) applied on four different fertility gradient soil (low, S₁ ; medium, S₂ ; moderate, S₃ and high, S₄ ) showed minimum leaf spot disease severity and maximum diseases reduction in (S₁ ) N₄₀K₂₀ (AUDPC 34.48 and 16.06 % reduction); (S₂ ) N₄₀K₄0 (AUDPC- 32.88 and 13.68 % reduction); (S3 ) N₂₀K₄₀ (AUDPC 31.51 and 11.44 % reduction) and (S4 ) N₂₀K₂₀ (AUDPC-25.40 and 11.58 % reduction). The yield attributes like kernel number and weight per plant and kernel yield were also high in above combinations and fertility gradient soil. The linear regression value between disease severity and yield parameters showed a high co-relation regression and negatively significant at all fertility gradient soil and more responsive at low, medium and high fertility gradient soil irrespective of different N and K levels.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

046447   VIKRANT, SINGH D R, KUMAR S, KISHOR K, KEWAL R (Chandra Shekhar Azad Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur- 208 002, Email: kumarvk2959@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of Insecticides against Helicoverpa armigera in Chickpea. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 276-82.

The study was carried out to evaluate bio-efficacy of some insecticides against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in chickpea during rabi 2014-15 and 2015-16 at the Students’ Instructional Farm (SIF) of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur. Minimum surviving and maximum reduction percentage of larval population was recorded in T₅ (Spinosad 45 EC @ 166 ml/ ha), whereas maximum surviving and minimum reduction percentage of larval population was recorded in T₁ (HaNPV @ 250 LE/ha) at 3rd, 7th and 10th days after spray. Significantly higher seed yield was obtained in case of (T₅ ) Spinosad 45 SC (2550 kg ha^-1 in 1st and 2680 kg ha^-1 in 2nd year), respectively. Based on benefit: cost ratio of different treatments, (T₅ ) Spinosad 45 SC ha^-1 was found to be most economic insecticide, because it gave the maximum benefit as compared to remaining treatments.

4 tables, 19 ref

046446   BALAI L P, SINGH R B, SINHA A, YADAV S M (ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Pali-Marwar, Rajasthan, Email: laxmanbhu08@gmail.com) : Evaluation of different fungicides and antagonists in vitro and in vivo condition against Alternaria blight of pigeonpea. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 268-75.

Efficacy of bio agents and systemic and non-systemic fungicides @ 50, 100, 200, 250 and 500 ppm were evaluated In vitro against Alternaria tenuissima causing Alternaria blight of pigeonpea. The relative efficacy of bio agents were studied in dual culture plate method showed that Hypocrea rufa was found most effective antagonist against test pathogen followed by T. harzianum. Efficacy of six fungicides was tested in poisoned food technique. Among the six fungicides tested, mancozeb was found most effective against test pathogen followed by Chlorothalonil and Iprodione. Propineb was least effective against mycelial growth of test pathogen. Raise in concentration of fungicides was more effective in inhibiting the mycelial growth of the pathogen. Field condition studies were found out to be the effect of seed treatment, foliar spray, seed treatment+ foliar spray with six fungicides and two bio agents and their combination used as against pathogen. Artificial inoculation of mass culture of A. tenuissima was done in the inoculated seed treatment and after foliar spray on the plants sixty DAS. Amongst them twenty five treatments, combination of Mancozeb with H. rufa was found most effective in reducing the disease intensity and disease control followed by Mancozeb with T. harzianum and Mancozeb alone, respectively. While, T. harzianum alone was least effective and maximum disease intensity recorded as a compared to control followed by T. harzianum with double dose and T. harzianum and H. rufa combination treatment, respectively. In case of both seed treatment and foliar spray of Mancozeb with H. rufa was found most effective in reducing the disease intensity and disease control followed by combination of Mancozeb with T. harzianum and Mancozeb alone, respectively. Whereas, least effective and maximum disease intensity and disease control were observed T. harzianum alone as compared to control.

4 tables, 38 ref

046445   MILADINOV Z, MAKSIMOVIC I, BALESEVI?-TUBIC S, DJUKIC V, CANAK P, MILADINOVIC J, DJORDJEVIC V (Soybean Dep, Field and Vegetable Crops Institute, Novi Sad, Serbia, Email: zlatica.miladinov@ifvcns.ns.ac.rs) : Priming seed mitigates the effects of saline stress in soybean seedlings. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 263-7.

Seed germination and seedling growth are the most sensitive plant stages towards salinity. Various techniques can improve emergence and stand formation under salt conditions. Seeds priming is one of the most frequently used technique. Seed priming could develop different defence mechanisms of seeds against salinity stress. This experiment aims to examine the seed priming into potassium nitrate - KNO₃ (1 %), ascorbic acid – ASA (100 mgl^-1) and potassium chloride - KCl (1 %) solutions, that may reduce harmful effects of salinity stress. Salinity was imposed by treatment of seeds with different concentrations of NaCl [0 (control), 50, 100, 200m MNaCl]. All data were analysed statistically by three-way ANOVA. Individual testing of probability was carried out using Tukey’s method p $\le$ 0.05 and p $\le$ 0.01. Correlation dependence was determined using the Pearson correlation coefficient. Test results demonstrated positive effect of seed priming. This was showed by improved soybean seed quality and increased seed germination rate. The intensity of lipid peroxidation, free proline concentration and Na⁺ was decreased, while K⁺ in seedlings increased due to priming treatment. Priming of seeds into ASA solution resulted in increased vitamin C concentration, while priming into KNO₃ and ΚCl solutions reduced the content of vitamin C in soybean seedlings.

7 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

046444   RAJ A B, RAJ S K, PRATHAPAN K, RADHAKRISHNAN N V (Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram- 685 501, Email: sheejakraj70@gmail.com) : Nutripriming with zinc sulphate and borax for early growth and seedling vigour in grain cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp]. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 258-62.

The experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station, Balaramapuram with an objective to study the effect of nutripriming with ZnSO₄ and borax on the early growth and seedling vigour and Zn and B content in grain cowpea. Nutripriming treatments had significant effect on germination parameters. Nutripriming with ZnSO₄ either at 0.025 or 0.05 per cent recorded higher values for the germination parameters. These treatments recorded 19.68 and 18.51 percentage higher germination than control. Germination index was 1.4 times higher in seeds primed with ZnSO₄ @ 0.025 and 0.05 percent and also recorded higher values for mean daily germination and speed of germination. The highest co-efficient rate of germination and germination rate index was recorded by seed priming with ZnSO₄ at 0.05 percent and it was closely followed by ZnSO₄ @ 0.025 percent for 4 h. Nutripriming with ZnSO₄ either @ 0.025 or 0.05 percent recorded the lowest mean germination time and time to reach 50 percent germination and also recorded higher Zn and B content. Vigour index also followed the same trend. Hence it can be concluded that nutripriming with ZnSO₄ either at 0.025 or 0.05 percent can be recommended for early seedling growth, seedling vigour and higher Zn and B content in grain cowpea.

2 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

046442   NGALAMU T, MESEKA S, GALLA J O, TONGUN N J, OCHANDA N W, OFORI K (Crop Science Dep, Juba Univ, Juba, Sudan, Email: lingarigwa@yahoo.co.uk) : Yield performance stability of adapted and improved cowpea in the Equatoria region of South Sudan. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 247-52.

Cowpea is an important food crop with high nutritional and socio-economical values in South Sudan. However, the lack of improved varieties is one of the main production constraints. This study was undertaken to assess the yield stability performance of improved cowpea genotypes across six environments in South Sudan in 2014 and 2015. Nine genotypes were evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Genotype and genotype x environment biplot analysis method was used to determine yield stability. Highly significant (p< 0.001) genotype x environment interaction effect was detected for seed yield. IT90K-277-2 had the highest while ACC004 had the lowest grain yield. Palotaka was as highly discriminating and repeatable environment compare to the other testing sites. IT07K-211-1-8 and Mading Bor II were the most responsive genotypes, while IT90K-277-2 was the most stable high yielding genotype across the test environments and can be grown by farmers across the region.

3 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

041201   BARDHAN D, KUMAR S, VERMA M R, BANGAR Y C (Livestock Economics Dep, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly - 243 122, Uttar Pradesh, Email: dwaipayanbardhan@gmail.com) : Economic losses due to brucellosis in India. Indian J Comp Microbiol Immunol Infect Dis 2020, 41(1), 19-30.

The annual economic losses due to brucellosis in different livestock species in India were estimated on the basis of secondary seroprevalence data collected from published peer-reviewed literature and government reports. Meta-analysis was carried out to arrive at the pooled prevalence of Bovine brucellosis. Various components of losses included in the study were reproductive losses (due to abortions and increased infertility), production losses, mortality losses in aborted animals and draught power losses. Simple mathematical models were developed to estimate the component-wise losses, which were arrived at INR 9212 crore. To take into account the possibility of variation and uncertainty in various epidemiological and economic parameters, a sensitivity analysis was also carried out by considering two different scenarios, that is, pessimistic and optimistic. In the pessimistic scenario, annual losses were estimated up to INR 19,041 crore, while in the optimistic scenario these are restricted to INR 3169 crore. The Benefit–cost ratio of brucellosis control through vaccination, under different scenarios, implied economic feasibility of vaccination against brucellosis. The study has thus revealed that Brucellosis, from policy perspective, is one of the most important diseases when it comes to mitigating losses due to diseases in dairy animals.

9 tables, 29 ref

046439   YOGANANDA S B, THIMMEGOWDA P, SHRUTHI G K (Agronomy Dep, Agriculture Coll, Mandya- 571 405, Email: sbyogananda@gmail.com) : Performance of cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) walp] under organic production system in southern dry zone of Karnataka. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 229-34.

A field experiment was carried out during kharif 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 at Zonal Agricultural Research Station, V. C. Farm, Mandya to study the performance of cowpea under organic production system in red sandy loam soil. The results revealed that application of 100 % N equivalent compost + recommended FYM (10 t/ha) + beejamrutha (seed treatment) + jeevamrutha (500 liter/ ha) recorded significantly higher grain yield during all the years of experimentation (2056, 1987, 2108 and 2365 kg/ha, respectively) and also in their pooled data (grain yield 2129 kg/ha). This increased yield was attributed to more availability of nitrogen (289.5 kg/ ha), phosphorus (40.5 kg/ha) and potassium (182.3 kg/ha) in the soil compared to other treatments. The benefit: cost ratio was higher with application of 100 % N equivalent compost + jeevamrutha + beejamrutha (2.81). Soil chemical properties, viz. soil pH, organic carbon content and electric conductivity, were not influenced significantly by application of organic manures. However, there was an improvement in the soil chemical properties (289.5, 40.5 and 182.3 N, P₂O₅ and K₂O kg/ha, respectively) compared to initial soil data (229, 19.2 and 135 NPK kg/ha).

5 tables, 18 ref

046440   SHINDE P, HUNJE R (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad- 580 005, Email: pavandgs@gmail.com) : Influence of soil application of organic manures and foliar spray of liquid biofertilizers on growth and seed yield of Kabuli chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) varieties. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 235-40.

The field experiment was carried out at WALMI Farm, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad during 2015-16 and 2016-17 on organically maintained field to study the influence of soil application of organic manures and foliar spray of liquid biofertilizers on growth and seed yield of kabuli chickpea varieties. The experiment was laid in split plot design with three replications constituting two kabuli chickpea varieties and seven fertilizer treatments. The results revealed that, kabuli chickpea variety BG1105 (V₁ ) recorded significantly higher values for seed yield and its yield attributes compared to MNK-1 (V₂ ) while, application of 100 % organics equivalent to RDP (50 % FYM and 50 % vermicompost) in combination with either of foliar application with Panchagavya @ 3 % or Biodigester @ 10 % or cow urine spray @ 10 % at flowering and 15 days after flowering can be used for obtaining higher seed yield in Kabuli chickpea varieties.

3 tables, 16 ref

046441   LIU B, QU D, LIU J (Jilin Normal Univ, Siping- 136 000, China, Email: liubing3562@126.com) : Light enrichment, flowering asynchrony and reproduction success in two field-grown soybeans in Northern China. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 241-6.

The flowering process at single plant level in soybean is a continuous dynamic system. Whether a flower can survive to mature depends on where it is located and when it is initiated. A field experiment was conducted to analyse the effect of flowering asynchrony on single flower survival and response of flowers or pods distribution to light enrichment. Our data suggest that early flowers (number 1-5) definitely survive and develop into mature pod because they don’t encounter fierce assimilates competition from other flowers or pods. Later flowers are usually prone to abortion, especially when five or more flowers at the same node in two soybean cultivars (Glycine max L. Merr. namely, Heinong35 and Kennong18). The flowers on sub-raceme frequently fail to develop into pods. Compared with the flowers on main-raceme, that on sub-raceme maybe have weak competitive ability to assimilation. Most flowers on bottom branches successfully develop into pods due to the strong supply of assimilation from the leaves of branches. Light enrichment significantly increase the number of flowers or pods across the main axis. However, the rate of flower abortion is still relatively high by observing the distribution curves of flowers or pods under light enrichment. Soybean plant has the characteristic of excessive flower production and flower abscission is more likely to be expression of biological adaptability.

3 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

046437   PHOGAT M, RAI A P, KUMAR S (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, SKUAST-J, Jammu- 180 009, Email: mamtaphogat@hau.ernet.in) : Interaction effect of phosphorus and sulphur application on nutrient uptake, yield and yield attributing parameters of black gram [Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper]. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 212-20.

The experiment comprising of four levels of phosphorus, i.e., 0, 20, 40 and 60 kg ha^-1 and three levels of sulphur, i.e., 0, 15 and 30 kg ha^-1, was conducted during summer of 2015-16 to investigate the interaction effect of phosphorus and sulphur application on nutrients uptake and yield of black gram cv. Uttara. The treatments were laid in randomized block design (Factorial) with three replications. The results revealed utmost concentration and uptake of phosphorus in seed (0.376 % and 3.59 kg ha^-1) and stover (0.266 % and 6.38 kg ha^-1) and sulphur in seed (0.397 % and 3.79 kg ha^-1) and stover (0.134 % and 3.21 kg ha^-1) with combined application of phosphorus 60 kg and sulphur 30 kg ha^-1, indicating synergistic effect of phosphorus and sulphur on nutrient uptake, respectively. The results also revealed that combined application of phosphorus and sulphur showed synergistic effect on seed and stover yield of black gram with increasing levels of phosphorus and sulphur up to highest level as both the nutrients mutually help absorption and utilization by black gram probably due to balanced nutrition. The seed and stover yield were 955.50 and 2398.30 kg ha^-1 with combined application of phosphorus 60 kg and sulphur 30 kg ha^-1. The yield attributes of black gram viz., plant height, number of pods plant^-1 and 100 seeds weight also increased significantly with increasing levels of phosphorus and sulphur up to highest level and the optimum values were recorded with combined application of phosphorus 60 kg and sulphur 30 kg ha^-1. However, non-significant response of phosphorus and sulphur application has been observed in case of plant population (m^-2).

7 tables, 42 ref

046436   HOANG L H, GUZMAN C D, CADIZ N M , TRAN D H (Hue Univ, Hue City, Vietnam, Email: tdanghoa@hueuni.edu.vn) : Physiological and phytochemical responses of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) and green amaranth (Amaranthus dubius L.) to different salinity levels. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 206-11.

The physiological and phytochemical responses of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.) and green amaranth (Amaranthus dubius L.) to different salinity levels were determined in two experiments conducted in Vietnam. Both experiments were performed in a net house involving pot experiments arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Two genotypes of amaranth were grown in garden soil, saline soil, 50 % garden soil: 50 % saline soil and 25, 50 and 100 mM NaCl. Salinization was imposed at 7, 14 and 21 days after transplanting. Results indicated that salt stress decreased growth parameters and biomass production in all treatments except for 25 mM NaCl. Na⁺ and Cl^- content accumulated in both shoot and root, however, root had greater NaCl content than shoot. Total phenolics, total flavonoid content and antioxidant activity increased with increasing salinity levels from 25 mM to 50 mM NaCl; however, at 100 mM NaCl, all these parameters decreased. These results showed that red amaranth was more tolerant to salinity stress than green amaranth.

3 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

046433   VISHNU B, JAYALAKSHMI V, RANI M S (Regional Agricultural Research Station, Nandyal- 518 503, Email: badabagnivishnu@gmail.com) : Genetic diversity studies among chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes under rainfed and irrigated conditions for yield attributing and traits related to mechanical harvesting. Legum Res 2020, 43(2), 190-4.

Genetic diversity among 30 chickpea genotypes was assessed for yield attributing and traits related to mechanical harvesting during rabi 2016-17 under both rainfed and irrigated conditions as separate experiments. The genotypes were grown in randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Genetic diversity study grouped 30 chickpea genotypes into five different clusters under both the tested environments. Days to 50 percent flowering followed by days to maturity and 100 seed weight contributed maximum towards diversity under rainfed as well as irrigated conditions. Inter cluster average D2 values stretched between 7.42 and 20.11 under rain fed condition, while it was slightly higher and varied from 8.64 to 28 under irrigated condition. The most divergent clusters were IV and V under both the situations. The traits that are suitable for mechanical harvesting particularly, height of the first pod and plant height contributed more (8.3 per cent and 8.1 per cent respectively) towards the genetic divergence under irrigated than under rainfed condition (3 per cent and 5.5 per cent respectively). While the angle of the primary branch couldn’t show any influence on the divergence under both the tested environments. Promising genotypes with suitable traits for mechanical harvesting besides having yield advantage are‘NBeG 780’, ‘NBeG 857’, ‘NBeG 47’, ‘NBeG 863’ and ‘BG 3061’ of cluster I under rainfed and cluster II under irrigated, ‘GBM 2’ of cluster II in rainfed and cluster I in irrigated, ‘ICCL 85213’ and ‘NBeG 865’ of cluster III under rainfed, ‘DBGV 3104’ of cluster I under rainfed and ‘GL 12021’ of cluster V under both rainfed and irrigated are suggested for utilization in the crossing programs to breed varieties of chickpea for high yield with amenability to combine harvesting.

6 tables, 13 ref

046430   SINGH A K, BISWAS U, KUMAR R R, SWAIN S, SWARNAM T P (Crop Improvement Div, ICAR-IIPR, Kanpur- 208 024, Email: awnindrakumar@gmail.com) : Morphological and genetic diversity among farmers’ varieties of urdbean (Vigna mungo L.) hepper of Andaman and Nicobar Islands agro-ecosystem. Andaman and Nicobar Islands 2020, 43(2), 172-8.

The extent of morphological variation among farmers’ varieties of urdbean was assessed using 21 DUS and 9 agronomic parameters. A set of 56 farmers’ varieties collected from different parts of the Andaman Islands were assessed for genetic diversity. Cluster analysis assigned farmers’ varieties into groups on the basis of agronomic performance rather than their origin and was identified 9 homogeneous clusters, it was able to separate 56 farmers’ varieties based on morphological and agronomic traits. Using cluster analysis by unweighted pair group with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) method and grouping of all farmers’ varieties exhibited the presence of wide genetic diversity by the formation of 9 clusters. Cluste- I had maximum number of farmers’ varieties i.e. 26 while, cluster VIII had only one (ANFVU-11-29). The pattern of distribution of farmers’ varieties into clusters assigned on the basis of agro-morphological performance and demonstrating that geographical isolation may not be the only factor causing genetic diversity. Intra cluster distance analysis revealed that minimum intra cluster distance was observed in cluster I. The maximum inter cluster distance has to be found in cluster VIII and IX. Therefore, it was concluded that more emphasis should be given on cluster I, II, VIII and IX for selecting farmers’ varieties as parents for crossing with the farmers’ varieties of cluster I which may produce new recombinants with desired traits.

2 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

043029   SINCHANA J K, RAJ S K (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 522, Kerala, Email: sheejakraj70@gmail.com) : Integrated weed management impact on soil biological indicators in cowpea. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 296–9.

Impact of integrated weed management practices involving stale seedbed, mulching with dried banana leaves, herbicides, viz. pre-emergence (PE) diclosulam, post-emergence (PoE) quizalofop-p-ethyl and imazethapyr and manual weeding on nodulation in bush cowpea and enzyme activity in soil was studied. Stale seedbed recorded significantly higher number of total nodules per plant. Dehydrogenase enzyme activity was also higher in stale seedbed however, urease enzyme activity did not have any significant effect at 15 and 30 DAS. Treatments with imazethapyr recorded lesser number of total nodules than treatments with diclosulam and quizalofop-p-ethyl. Among the herbicide treatments at 15 DAS, PE diclosulam registered significantly higher urease and dehydrogenase enzyme activity than weedy check and comparable activity with hand weeding treatment. Post-emergence imazethapyr showed a reduction in dehydrogenase and urease enzyme activity at 30 DAS compared to 15 DAS. However, PoE quizalofop-p-ethyl registered higher dehydrogenase and urease enzyme activity at 30 DAS compared to 15 DAS and values were comparable or higher than that of hand weeding treatment.

2 tables, 13 ref

043028   GEETHIKA N S, SUBRAMANYAM D, REDDY S T , UMAMAHESH V (Sri Venkateswara Agricultural Coll, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, Email: subbuagro37@gmail.com) : Effect of plant extracts and rice straw mulch on weed growth and yield of groundnut. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 292–5.

Sorghum (NJ-2647), sunflower (NDSH-1012) and rice (NLR-34449) were grown up to physiological maturity and harvested for preparing plant extracts during Kharif 2017 at Sri Venkateswara Agricultural College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. Plant parts of Parthenium hysterophorus, Lantana camera and Cyperus rotundus were collected from the non-cropped area at flowering. The chopped material of above plants were soaked separately in distilled water for 24 hours at room temperature of 210C at a ratio of 1:10 (w/v) and the same was filtered through 10 and 60 mesh sieve separately. A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2017-18 in a randomized block design with 10 treatments to evaluate the performance of different plant extracts each applied at 15 L/ha at 15 and 30 DAS and rice straw mulch 5 t/ha for weed management in groundnut. The application of rice straw mulch 5 t/ha was found to be the best followed by sunflower extract spray for obtaining higher pod yield and maximum net returns, besides effective control of weeds in groundnut in view of sustainability and reduce the load of herbicides in the soil, however pre-emergence application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha + HW at 30 DAS produced higher pod yield and net returns.

2 tables, 12 ref

043027   SHAKTAWAT R P S (Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Agar Malwa - 465 441, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rpssbkn@yahoo.co.in) : Integrated weed management in blackgram. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 290–1.

An on farm testing (OFT) was conducted in the farmer’s field of Daloda Rail village, Mandsaur district, Madhya Pradesh in kharif season of 2014, 2015 and 2016 to assess the effect of integrated weed management treatments on weed management and yield of blackgram (Vigna mungo L.). Application of imazethapyr 75 g/ha at 18 days after seeding (DAS) and hand weeding at 40 DAS gave 36.91 % mean higher blackgram grain yield as compare to farmer’s practice (0.88 t/ha). Further, this treatment also resulted in significantly higher blackgram plant height, pods/plant, net return and B:C ratio as compared to all other tested treatments and significantly reduced the weed density and biomass as recorded at 45 DAS as compared to all other treatments tested.

3 tables, 7 ref

043026   RAMESH T, RATHIKA S (Agronomy Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Tiruchirappalli - 620 009, Tamil Nadu, Email: agronramesh@gmail.com) : Management of Trianthema portulacastrum through herbicides in greengram. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 286–9.

Field experiments were conducted to select suitable pre- and post-emergence herbicides for the control of Trianthema portulacastrum in greengram. Treatments were consisted of pre-emergence (PE) herbicides, viz. pendimethalin (1.0 kg/ha), oxyfluorfen (100 and 200 g/ha) with one hand weeding at 30 days after sowing (DAS), post-emergence (PoE) imazethapyr 50 g/ha at 15 DAS, combinations of PE and PoE herbicides and hand weeding (HW) twice at 15 and 30 DAS and control. Significantly lesser weed density (137/m² ) and dry weight (30.4 g/m² ) and higher weed control efficiency (89.6 %) were recorded with application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha at 3 DAS + imazethapyr 50 g/ha at 30 DAS than other treatments at 45 DAS. Significantly higher dry matter production (1.34 t/ha), more number of pods per plant (38.4) and seeds per pod (9.8) were recorded with application of pendimethalin1.0 kg/ha + imazethapyr 50 g/ha 30 DAS than other treatments. Application of pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha on 3 DAS followed by imazethapyr 50 g/ha on 30 DAS recorded significantly higher mean grain yield of 461 kg/ha, mean net returns ( 14443/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.09) over other treatments. Thus, it could be concluded that application of PE herbicide pendimethalin 1.0 kg/ha on 3 DAS followed by PoE herbicide imazethapyr 50g/ha on 30 DAS controlled the Trianthema portulacastrum effectively and produced higher productivity and profitability of greengram in irrigated condition.

2 tables, 11 ref

046425   SINGH O V, SHEKHAWAT N, SINGH K (ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, Jodhpur- 342 003, Email: neelam.shekhawat@icar.gov.in) : Stability analysis for yield and some of yield component traits in cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp] germplasm in hot arid climate. Legum Res 2020, 43(1), 623-6.

The present study carried out to identify cowpea genotypes suitable for summer season in arid and semi-arid zones of India appeared important for its sustained increase the cultivation. Thirty-eight accessions of cowpea including 3 checks (V-585, FTC-27, GC-3) were evaluated during five consecutive (2012-2016) kharif seasons to estimate stability of performance for nine quantitative traits. The G×E interaction variance was significant for all the observed characters except peduncle length and plant height, suggesting that yield was inconsistent in different years. However, the present study revealed that the genotype C-863 with higher mean performance with compared to check, non-significant deviation from regression line and regression coefficient less than unity was most suitable for favourable environments for the characters like seed yield per plant and number of clusters per plant. The genotypes C-863, C-1085, C-956 for seed yield per plant, C-1013 and C-1126 for number of pods per plant, C-1133 for number of clusters per plant and C-863 and C-1089 for number of peduncles per plant may be effectively used for future cowpea breeding programmes.

3 tables, 6 ref

043025   SARAVANANE P, POONGUZHALAN R, VIJAYAKUMAR S, POOJA K (Agronomy Dep, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru Coll of Agriculture & Research Institute, Karaikal - 609 603, Puducherry, Email: psaravanane@rediffmail.com) : Crop-weed competition in blackgram in coastal deltaic eco-system. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 283–5.

A field experiment was carried out at Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru College of Agriculture and Research Institute, Karaikal, U.T. of Puducherry, India during rainy season (Kharif) of 2019 with ten treatments replicated thrice in a randomized block design to study the critical period of crop-weed competition in irrigated blackgram in deltaic coastal ecosystem. The weed spectrum comprised of Echinochloa colona (L), Dactyloctenium aegyptium (L.), Trianthema portulacastrum (L.), Cleome viscosa (L.), Eclipta prostrata (L.) and Cyperus rotundus (L.). The density and dry weight of weeds significantly increased when crop-weed competition was prolonged from 15 days after sowing (DAS) to the maturity of the crop. The highest seed yield (706.5 kg/ in coastaha) was obtained when blackgram was maintained weed free till harvest closely followed by weed free till 60 DAS (652.1 kg/ha) and weedy condition till 15 DAS (608.6 kg/ha). The critical period of crop-weed competition was found to be 17 to 50 DAS. Weedy condition upto 15, 30, 45, 60 DAS and throughout crop growth resulted in a yield loss of 9.66, 39.19, 59.13, 75.87 and 86.30 %, respectively

3 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

043024   NATH S, DHYANI V C, SINGH V P, CHATURVEDI S, PRAHARAJ S, SARVADAMANA A K (G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar - 263 145, Uttarakhand, Email: supravanath96@gmail.com) : Biochar and herbicide application effect on weed dynamics and yield of dry direct-seeded rice. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 280–2.

Field experiment was conducted during rainy season (Kharif) 2018 to study the bio-efficacy of pre-emergence herbicides in dry direct-seeded rice. The treatments were weedy check, weed free, pendimethalin applied as preemergence at 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 kg/ha fb post-emergence application of bispyribacsodium at 0.025 kg/ha with amendment of biochar at 4.0 t/ha and without amendment of biochar. Total weed dry matter accumulation was maximum at 60 DAS. The highest grain yield was obtained in weed free treatment which was 7.38 % higher than pendimethalin as pre-emergence at 1.5 kg/ha followed by bispyribac-sodium at 25 g/ha under biochar condition. Recommended dose of pendimethalin (1.0 kg/ha) along with biochar had 7.5 % less yield compared to 1.0 kg/ha pendimethalin without biochar amendment. Higher dose of pendimethalin reduced grain, straw and biological yield, setback on yield was more pronounced in non-biochar amended soil. Addition of biochar decreased the B:C compared to without biochar treatments.

2 tables, 13 ref

043023   KUMARI S, KAUR T, BHULLAR M S (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana - 141 001, Punjab, Email: snehak723@gmail.com) : Integrated weed management with brown manuring and herbicides in dry-seeded rice. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 276–9.

The study was carried out in rainy season in 2015 at Ludhiana, India. Present study evaluated the effect of timing of brown manuring with Sesbania aculeata alone and its integration with herbicides on weed incidence and rice grain yield. Sesbania seed was broadcasted at time of rice sowing and brown manured using 2,4-D at 580 g/ha at 4- and 5-weeks age. BM plots had significantly lower weed density and biomass than without BM (sole rice). BM at 4 weeks was more effective in suppressing weeds than BM at 5 weeks age. Among weed control methods, sequential application of pendimethalin and bispyribac gave best weed control and highest rice grain yield. Combination treatments of BM (4 weeks) with pendimethalin and, sole rice with pendimethalin and bispyribac gave similar rice grain yield. It was concluded that BM has weed control potential equivalent to one post-emergence herbicide, however, for getting the highest rice productivity it must be used in combination with pre- and postemergence herbicides.

2 tables, 10 ref

043022   LINU C, GIRIJA T (Horticulture Coll, Thrissur - 680 656, Kerala, Email: linu797@gmail.com) : Physiological response of rice to herbicide application. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 270–5.

The experiment was conducted at Agricultural Research Station, Mannuthy in the year 2018 with the rice variety ‘Jyothi’. The experiment was laid out in RBD with three replications. Treatments included recommended and double the recommended doses of 2,4-D, metsulfuron-methyl + chlorimuron-ethyl and penoxsualm and two controls (hand weeded and unweeded). Herbicides were sprayed at 20 days after sowing (DAS). Biochemical parameters were estimated at one week after herbicidal application and at the time of flowering. Biochemical parameters such as soluble protein, total amino acid and nitrate reductase enzyme activity showed a decline in herbicide treatments compared to hand weeded control. Proline content and catalase enzyme activity showed an increase with herbicide application while other physiological parameters like Indole acetic acid (IAA) content, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis showed a decline. Double the recommended dose of herbicides affected these parameters more adversely as compared to the recommended dose of herbicides. Even though double the recommended dose of herbicide exhibited higher weed control efficiency, it reduced the yield of rice plant.

12 tables, 26 ref

046422   SARKAR S , PANDA S , YADAV K K, KANDASAMY P (Agronomy Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani- 741 235, Email: smritikanasarkar12@gmail.com) : Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) an important food legume in Indian scenario – A review. Legum Res 2020, 43(1), 601-10.

According to Indian Institute of Pulses Research Vision document, India’s population is expected to touch 1.68 billion by 2030 and the pulse requirement for the year 2030 is projected at 32 million tonnes with anticipated required annual growth rate of 4.2 %. Pigeon pea is an important legume crop cultivated across several countries throughout the tropics and subtropics. They are cultivated in India, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Caribbean, East and West Africa. Commonly known as ‘Arhar’ in Northern India, this protein rich pulse crop has growing demand in Asia. Among the pulses pigeon pea is the second most important kharif grain legume after chickpea in India and grown predominantly under rainfed conditions. The kernels are nutritionally rich containing 20-22 % protein. Its cultivation would be able to provide 40-60 kg N/ha to the subsequently grown crop. The leaves and immature stems can be used as a green manure. Fallen leaves can also be used as mulch and thus help to enhance the water holding capacity of soil. Its beneficial effect as an intercrop has also been reported. Sometimes ground dry peas are mixed with wheat flour just to improve the flour quality and its protein content. Additionally, pigeon pea shares a vital part in India’s pulse import and export. Keeping all these in view the present review depicts the various aspects of pigeon pea cultivation and its status in Indian trade on pulse.

1 illus, 1 table, 105 ref

043021   KAUR M, PUNIA S S, SINGH J, SINGH S (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana 141004, Email: maninder.sindhu@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of multiple herbicide resistance in littleseed canarygrass (Phalaris minor) populations from Haryana in India. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 265–9.

Phalaris minor is seriously affecting wheat productivity and profitability in Haryana. The menace of P. minor has worsened after it evolved resistance to herbicides. For rational recommendation and implementation of management strategies, it is imperative to assess and quantify the level of resistance in P. minor populations. In dose-response assay, it was found that P. minor populations ‘Naggal’ and ‘Kalvehri’ exhibited multiple resistance to herbicides from different chemical families. ‘Naggal’ was 13-, 18-, 26- and 22-fold resistant to clodinafop, pinoxaden, sulfosulfuron and mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron, respectively and ‘Kalvehri’ was 15-, 29- and 16-fold resistant to pinoxaden, sulfosulfuron and mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron, respectively. All tested populations were resistant to ACCase inhibitors with more number of populations being highly resistant to clodinafop than pinoxaden. However, majority of the populations were susceptible to ALS inhibitors particularly mesosulfuron + iodosulfuron. The evolution of multiple herbicide resistance in P. minor is a big challenge for scientists and farmers alike.

2 tables, 19 ref

043020   DHANDA S, CHAUDHARY A , KAUR S, BHULLAR M S (Agronomy Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana - 141 004, Punjab, Email: sachin-agr@pau.edu) : Herbicide resistance in Rumex dentatus against metsulfuron herbicide in Punjab and Haryana, India. Indian J Weed Sci 2020, 52(3), 259–64.

Over-reliance and continuous use of similar mode of herbicides lead to increase in selection pressure which resulted in evolution of herbicide resistance in weeds. Metsulfuron-methyl is used for the control of broad-leaf weeds in wheat since 1990s. There are reports of failure of control of Rumex dentatus with metsulfuron from farmers’ fields in North-Western India. Pot studies were conducted at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during winter (Rabi) 2018-19 and 2019-20 to quantify the status and level of herbicide resistance in R. dentatus in Punjab and Haryana. Rumex populations were collected from farmers’ fields in both years. Fifty six and 33 biotypes of R. dentatus from farmers’ fields of Haryana and 6 and 19 biotypes from Punjab were collected in first and second year, respectively. Biotypes were screened using recommended dose of metsulfuron-methyl (5 g/ha) along with unsprayed in pot study. Results revealed that 38 out of 56 biotypes of R. dentatus collected from Haryana in first year were found resistant to metsulfuron whereas only one biotype showed resistance from Punjab. Further, 23 biotypes out of 33 biotypes collected in second year were found resistant from Haryana whereas 14 biotypes out of 19 were found resistant in Punjab. This indicated that R. dentatus has evolved resistance against metsulfuron-methyl in different regions of Punjab and Haryana.

3 illus, 1 table, 21 ref