040195   BHATTACHARYYA S, POI R, MANDAL S, BASKEY M, ROY S D, HALDER S, HAZRA D K, KARMAKAR R (Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia, West Bengal, Email: rajibc183@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of matrix effect of chilli, cabbage and bitter gourd in multiclass multi-pesticide residue analysis using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 111-7.

Matrix effect of twenty three (23) multi-class pesticides in three different vegetables (Bitter gourd, Chilli, Cabbage) was evaluated using modified QuEChERS [Quick (Qu), Easy (E), Cheap (Ch), Effective (E), Rugged (R) and Safe (S)] coupled with GC-MS analysis. Validation parameters (linearity, LOD, LOQ, accuracy and precision) were determined for multi-residue analysis. The Horwitz ratio was used to explain for intra-laboratory precision. The matrix effect (% ME) for each pesticide in each vegetable was assessed based on the study of slope ratio of linearity curves obtained from solvent and respective vegetable matrix. Most of the compounds had positive matrix effect and cabbage was found to be the least sensitive matrix compared to others. Recovery study was carried out fortifying pesticide mixture prepared from both pure solvent and matrix. The values of recovery percentages were satisfactory when calculated with matrix matched standard mixture (79 % to 108 %), with an acceptable relative standard deviation (RSD) (<20 %). The results of the present study truly revealed the influence of matrix in pesticide residue estimation.

3 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

040191   LEKSHMI D, VENKATARAMANA U, M N (Agricultural Economics Dep, GKVK, Bengaluru, Email: divyalk89@gmail.com) : Growth and instability analysis of area, production and productivity of paddy in Kerala, with special reference to "The Kerala conservation of paddy land and Wetland Act, 2008.". Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 93-8.

Rice is the staple food of Keralites. Kerala climate is well suited for wetland paddy cultivation. However, the paddy land in Kerala is decreasing over years. The Kerala conservation of paddy land and wetland Act, 2008 made a slight change in this decadal decreasing trend. In this study, Bai-Perron test identified a structural break in area, production and productivity during 2007-08 and 2009-10, which could be associated to the conservation act. The compound annual growth rate for area and production was found to be negative. The growth in area diminished before and after the break, but the diminishing rate was less after the break (-2.52%) than the period before the break date (-4.40 %). So, as in the case of production. Productivity showed a positive growth rate for the overall period. Instability in production was high after the break date, whereas, instability in area remained almost same for both before and after the break dates. Exponential growth model was used for forecasting. The forecasted area and production up to 2030 showed a declining trend. The forecasted results on area showed that there will be a decline of around 36,444 ha in another 12 years. Similarly, the production will also come down to 3,70,795 t.

4 tables, 9 ref

040189   DASH L, LAKSHMI V R, PADHY D (Entomology Dep, CUTM, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, Email: lipsa.bckv@gmail.com) : Host range, life aspects and mode of damage of brinjal shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis guenee) on brinjal. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 81-5.

Brinjal (Eggplant) Solanum melongena Linnaeus is the most important vegetable of hot and humid climates. A wide range of essential biochemicals and minerals belongs to brinjal. It is a fairly good source of iron, calcium, phosphorous, potassium and vitamin B group. Brinjal Shoot and Fruit Borer Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee is the major infectious insect causing a great damage to plants. BSFB generally depends on brinjal but it may infest other solanaceous field crops and may be on wild hosts. The insect has been reported a number of crops such as S. tuberosum (potato), S. lycopersicum and some other Solanaceous crops. The damage by this borer starts at seedling stage and continues till the last harvest of fruits. Egg-laying occurs during night and incubation period ranges from 3-8 days depending of environmental conditions. Larval period completes in 12-22 days depending upon environmental situations and passes through five instars. Full grown larvae pupate into the soil or under plant debris and dropped dead shoots. Adult of BSFB is a whitish moth which hides during day time and activates from dusk to perform various activities like mating oviposition. Larvae bore into fruits and shoots and in younger plants, caterpillars drill into midrib of large leaves. At the time of maturity, damage of the insect on fruits causes a serious loss in yield.

3 illus, 32 ref

040188   ADHIKARY R, GARNAYAK R, BERA M, PAL A (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, CUTM, Gajapati, Odisha, Email: rahul.adhikary@cutm.ac.in) : Soil nutrient status of gosani block under Gajapati district, Odisha. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 75-9.

The present investigation was led during the year 2018-19 at Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Gajapati, Odisha with intend to consider supplement status of various village of Gosani square. The examples were gathered from various homesteads and towns of Gosani square. At that point test investigated according to standard strategy for surveying pH, EC, OC, and significant supplements like accessible nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium with micronutrients like zinc, copper, manganese and iron status of soils. The pH of soils changed from 6.13 to 6.44 and EC shifted from 0.06 to 0.34 dS/m. The natural carbon content in ranch soils was shifted from 0.35 to 0.55 %. The accessible nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium ran from 125 to 250 and 31 to 41 and 185 to 542 kg/ha individually. The accessible zinc, copper, manganese and iron went from 1.08 to 2.92, 0.90 to 3.06, 9.96 to 27.90 and 17.02 to 74.14 mg/kg individually. The outcomes demonstrate that result were somewhat acidic in response, non-saline and low in natural carbon. The results were low to medium in accessible nitrogen and high in accessible phosphorous and medium to high in accessible potassium. The micronutrient status like accessible zinc was low to satisfactory and accessible copper, manganese; iron were sufficient sum found in soils. The outcomes presume that decent use of supplements required for fruitful harvest creation and advancement of vegetable in various villages under Gosani Block.

5 illus, 4 tables, 12 ref

040187   RINI, C R, REMYA, J (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Kerala, Email: crrini@gmail.com) : Management of phytophthora capsici infection in black pepper (Piper nigrum l.) using new generation fungicides and biopesticide. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 71-4.

A field study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of different new generation fungicides and biopesticide against Phytophthora capsici in black pepper. Five commercial fungicides and a biopesticide were tested and natural infection due to P. capsici was recorded. Disease indexing was done by visual observation on leaf blight, spike infection, leaf shedding and yellowing of vines. Among the different fungicides, spraying and drenching with Fenamidone 10WDG + Mancozeb 50WDG @ 0.2 % was found to be the most effective with 12.4 % disease intensity. It was followed by Copper hydroxide 77 WP @ 0.2 % with 17.8 % disease intensity. Dimethomorph 9WP + Mancozeb 60WP and Cymoxanil 8WP + Mancozeb 64WP were also effective against Phytophthora infection and found better than the existing practice of spraying Bordeaux mixture and drenching Copper oxy chloride. Soil application of talc based formulation of PGPM mix @ 50 g/vine and foliar spray at 2 % concentration also resulted in considerable reduction in the severity of Phytophthora infection in black pepper.

1 table, 15 ref

040186   PATTANAYAK S, DAS S (Plant Pathology Dep, Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Odisha, Email: siddhartha.das10@gmail.com) : Outbreak of rice blast on the coastal region of south-eastern India. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 59-70.

Rice blast caused by Magnaporthe grisea is turn to be one of the most severe pathogen under change in climatic condition in coastal region of South-Eastern India. Severity of the pathogen was not overwhelming previously. An investigation was carried out in several villages of different districts of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha under the RAWEP programme of Centurion University of Technology and Management with compared to meteorological data support from IMD, Bhubaneswar, Odisha. Different meteorological factors consider under this study were maximum temperature (T_max), minimum temperature (T_min), relative humidity maximum (RH max), relative humidity minimum (RH min), rainfall (RF). Among the three cultivated rice varieties, Pooja and Samba mahsuri (BPT-5204) are the most susceptible blast varieties (5.71 % and 4.85 %) compared to Swarna (MTU 7029) with a disease incidence level of 1.23 %. Outcome of this investigation also revealed that the most crucial two (Tmax andRH max) factors directly involved for the emergence of the disease compared to previous year 2015-16 and 2016-17. The peak disease infestation was observed in the month of October and November with PDI of 27.33 % and 26 %. Farmers based prolonged survey report and our observation concluded with the fact that Tricyclazole 75% WP (trade name – BAAN/ Indofils) and 40% EC formulation of Isoprothiolane (trade name – Fujione / Rallis India Limited) are the two sequential most effective fungicides compared to different market based available fungicides and showed best efficacy against neck, collar and leaf blasts. Weather parameters as well as complex adaptability of the pathogenic nature (showing resistant against different fungicides) turned this Ascomycota member to a severe one.

11 illus, 7 tables, 26 ref

040185   GOWTHAMCHAND, N J, GANAPATHI, SOUMYA, T M (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Univ, Shivamogga, Karnataka, Email: fsiruvakki@gmail.com) : Effect of bulky manures and fermented liquid organics on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and economics of french bean (Phaseolus vulgaris l) under rainfed condition. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 51-8.

A field experiment was conducted to study the “Effect of bulky organic manures and fermented liquid organics on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and economics of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L) under rainfed condition” at Organic Farming Research Centre, Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station (ZAHRS), Navile, Shivamogga, during Kharif 2018-19. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments comprising of different bulky organic manures (FYM and Vermicompost) and fermented liquid organic manures (Beejamrutha, Jeevamruta, Panchagavya and Cow urine) were replicated thrice. Experimental results revealed that, significantly higher growth, yield attributes, economics and nutrient uptake with good shelf-life and protein content of the French bean were found in the treatment which received Beejamrutha (seed treatment) + Jeevamrutha (soil application @ 500 L ha-1) + 100 % RDN through vermicompost + Foliar spray of Panchagavya @ 3 % (T6 ) and were on par with application of Beejamrutha (seed treatment) + Jeevamrutha (soil application @ 500 L ha-1) + 50 % RDN through FYM + 50% RDN through vermicompost + Foliar spray of Panchagavya @ 3 % (T7 ) and Beejamrutha (seed treatment) + Jeevamrutha (soil application @ 500 L ha-1) + 100 % RDN through FYM + Foliar spray of Panchagavya @ 3 % (T5 ). Simillar trend of higher benefit cost ratio was also recorded in the same set of treatment combination. This study indicated that combined application of bulky and fermented liquid organic manures in seed treatments, soil application and foliar spray performed better in organic French bean production at best benefit ratio cost.

6 tables, 23 ref

040184   RANJIT K, BHATTACHARJEE H, SATISH KUCHI V (Plantation Crops and Processing Dep, Uttar Banga Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, West Bengal, Email: kakiranjit@gmail.com) : Standardization of organic manure and bio-inoculants for production of improved planting material of tea. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 39-49.

Tea is one of the important plantation crops of India as well as West Bengal, contributes considerably in national economy and earns foreign exchange. During 2014-15, total production of tea in India was 1233.14 m kg, out of which only 100 m kg were organic tea. Mainly due to importers demand of organic tea, there is urgent need to enhance organic production of tea crop. Indiscriminate use of inorganic agricultural inputs-fertilizers, weedicides, pesticide and fungicides and lesser use of organic matters deplete soil health, residues remain beyond MRL in processed tea, ultimately reduction in export. Tea Board provides 55 % subsidy for organic tea production. For organic cultivation of tea, the planting materials should also be organically produced in nursery, which is very scanty for perennial crops in general and plantation crops in particular. With this background, the present investigation was carried out at instructional farm of the department of Plantation Crops and Processing, UBKV, Pundibari, with the objective to standardize the organic manures and bio-inoculants for production of improved planting materials of tea, The experiment was conducted from 2013 to 2015 and laid out in completely randomized block design. The planting materials of tea chosen to standardize organic manures and bio-inoculants were TS-462 and TV 26. From the study it can be inferred that, the treatment T6 -vermicompost 50 g/sleeve and bio fertilizers mixture 10 g (Azotobacter + Azospirillium + PSB + Trichoderma + VAM @2.0 g each)/sleeve observed to be the best when compared to other treatments and control.

4 tables, 39 ref

040183   BHARDWAJ S S S, MISHRA G C, LENKA S K (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, Email: gcmishra@cutm.ac.in) : Influence of weed management practices on weed control efficiency, yield and economics in sweet corn (Zea mays l. saccharata). Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 27-32.

The field experiment was conducted in sandy loam soil at Research Farm, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Bagusala village, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, India during summer season of 2018. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications and eight treatments. The herbicidal treatmentrs of pre emergence (PE) application of either pendimethalin @ 0.75kg/ha, oxyfluorfen @ 50 g/ha and metribuzin @ 0.3 kg/ha at 1 day after sowing (DAS) or the same herbicides supplimented with straw mulching (SM) @ 6 t/ha at 30 DAS were compared with intercultivation twice at 20 and 40 DAS and unweeded control. Experimental results revealed that weed mangement treatments significantly influenced the yield attributes and yield of sweet corn along with improvement in weed control efficiency. Pre emergence application of either metribuzin @ 0.30 kg/ha or pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg /ha at 1 DAS in combination with SM @ 6.0 t/ha at 30 DAS remarkbly enhanced the yield attributes such as number of cobs/plant, cob length, cob girth and cob weight. The green cob (11.78 t /ha) and forage (14.55 t/ha) yield were the highest with metribuzin @ 0.30 kg/ha as PE at 1 DAS + SM @ 6 t/ha at 30 DAS. It was followed by pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg /ha as PE at 1 DAS + SM @ 6 t/ha at 30 DAS producing the green cob and forage yield of 11.21 and 14.22 t/ha, respectively. The reduction in yield was to the tune of 35.10 % due to uninterrupted growth of weeds. The maximum gross return (` 250150 /ha), net return (` 181635 /ha) and B:C ratio (2.65) were obtained with PE application of metribuzin @ 0.30 k g/ha at 1 DAS + SM @ 6 t/ha at 30 DAS. It was followed by pendimethalin @ 0.75 kg /ha as PE at 1 DAS + SM @ 6 t/ha at 30 DAS registering the gross and net return of ` 238420/ ha and ` 169605 /ha, respectively.

2 tables, 13 ref

040182   MANASA P, MAITRA S, BARMAN S (Agronomy Dep, Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi-761 211, Email: p.manasa@cutm.ac.in) : Yield attributes, yield, competitive ability and economics of summer maize-legume intercropping system. Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 33-8.

Maize (Zea mays L.), the queen of cereals, is planted with wide spacing and so it offers the scope of intercropping. Considering the benefits of cereal-legume association, an experiment on maizelegume intercropping system was conducted during summer season of 2018 at Bagusala Farm of M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Gajapati district, Odisha. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design and the treatments were comprised of ten cropping systems, namely, T₁ : sole maize, T₂ : sole green gram (Vigna radiata L.), T₃ : sole groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.), T₄ : sole black gram (Vigna mungo L.), T₅ : maize + greengram (2:1), T₆ : maize + groundnut (2:1), T₇ : maize + blackgram (2:1), T₈ : maize + greengram (2:2), T₉ : maize + groundnut (2:2) and T₁₀ maize +black gram (2:2). Paired row sowing of hybrid maize was done with a spacing of 80 cm/30 cm × 25 cm in sole maize. Pure stand of legumes i.e. green gram, groundnut and black gram were sown with 30 cm × 10 cm spacing. As per the treatments, single and double row of intercrops were taken in between two pairs of maize. The result indicated that intercropped legumes improved the yield components of maize and offered some bonus yield. The maximum maize grain yield (5669 kgha-1) was noted with sole maize, however, maize equivalent yield of 7609kg ha-1 was recorded with maize + groundnut (2:2) and it was followed by maize + black gram with 2:2 ratio (6902 kg ha-1). In expression of the competition functions, maize + groundnut (2:2) recorded the highest values of area time equivalent ratio (1.70), relative yield total (1.47) and monetary advantage (` 42002 kg ha<sup>-1</sup>). The intercropping combination of maize + groundnut (2:2) recorded the highest net return (` 47954 ha^-1), with a benefit-cost ratio of 1.00, but by the treatment maize + black gram with 2:2 ratio registered greater B:C ratio (1.11) with net return of ` 45499 ha^-1.

4 tables, 15 ref

040181   RAO B M, MISHRA G C, MAITRA S, ADHIKARY R (Centurion Univ of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha, Email: gcmishra@cutm.ac.in) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield and economics in summer sweet corn (Zea mays l. saccharata). Int J Agric Envir Biotechnol 2020, 13(1), 23-6.

The field experiment was carreied out at Research Farm, Bagusala, M.S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management during summer, 2018. The soil was sandy loam in texture, slightly acidic in reaction ( pH 6.8 ) and low in available N (158.83 kg /ha) and P₂O₅ (10.82 kg /ha) and medium in available K₂O (147.67 kg/ha). The randomized complete block design was adopted with three replications for testing 8 treatments. They were consisted of 100 % recommended dose of fertilizer ( DF) @ 120-60-60 kg of N-P₂ O₅ -K₂ O /ha), 100% RDF + bio fertilizer consortia (Azotobactor + Azosporillum + phosphobacter) @15 kg/ha, 50 % recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) through farm yard manure (FYM) + 50 % RDF + bio fertilizer consortia (BFC) @15 kg/ha, 50 % RDN through vermi compost (VC) + 50% RDF + BFC @15 kg/ha, 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN through FYM, 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN through VC, 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN through FYM + BFC @15 kg/ha and 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN through VC + BFC @15 kg/ha. The yield attributes such as number of cobs/plant, cob length, cob girth and cob weight along with green cob and forage yield were remarkably influenced by integrated nutrient management treatments. Application of 75 % RDF + 25 % RDN (VC) + BFC @15 kg/ha recorded the highest yield attributes and green cob (12.01 t/ha) and fodder (`16.52 t/ha) yield. It was followed by 100 % RDF + BFC @15 kg/ha producing the green cob and forage yield of 11.67 and 16.17 t/ha, respectively. The maximum net return (Rs. 164206/ ha) and benefit cost ratio (1.92) was obtained with integration of 100 % RFD (120- 60-60 kg of N, P₂O₅  and K₂ O /ha) and BFC (Azotobactobacter + Azosporillum + posphobacter) @15 kg/ha. 

2 tables, 9 ref

040157   ANDAL N M, INDHUMATHY P (Chemistry Dep, PSGR Krishnammal Coll for Women, Coimbatore - 641 004, Tamil Nadu, Email: muthulakshmiandal@psgrkcw.ac.in) : Deployment of toxicants laden sorbents in the manufacture of construction materials- A review. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 43-6.

The release of effluents from large-scale and small-scale industries has led to greater adverse environmental impact. These effluents comprised of various cations, anions, heavy metals, organics, etc. These toxicants served as nutrients for the growth of plants and microorganisms in the water bodies where they were discharged. The excessive presence of these nutrients caused eutrophication and reduced the biological oxygen demand (BOD) and thus endangered the aquatic life, which inturn reflected on animals and human beings. The effluents also contaminated the ground water table extensively and diminished the sources of freshwater. Among the various pollutants present in the discharges, heavy metals proved to be lethal to all living organisms when they exceed their tolerance levels. Hence, their confiscation employing different methodologies has become inevitable. Among them, adsorption, had been widely reported due to its efficiency and ease in operation. On a larger scale, the disposal of the exhausted sorbents posed a major setback and caused land and air pollution due to landfills and incineration. The metal ions enter the food chain and cause serious health ailments, even bereavement. Therefore, the present review focused on the recent research works where these metal laden composites were utilized in the processing of construction materials. The review's supposition remarks on the containment of the caused secondary pollution. The detention also enhanced the characteristics features of the derived products thereby crafting them viable for additional commercial purposes. 

3 tables, 11 ref

040155   BALASUBRAMANIAN S, TUKARAM K A (ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering Regional Centre, Coimbatore - 641 007, Tamil Nadu, Email: balaciphet@gmail.com) : A study on transverse flow pattern of soybean splits in a closed type horizontal rotating drum. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 28-33.

Roasting drums have generally been used in soybean roasters. The different flow patterns of transverse motions viz., slipping, slumping, rolling, cascading, cataracting and centrifuging formation inside the rotating drum influenced the roasting material's bed behaviour through selection of its operating variables such as rotational speed and filling degree, thus important in the design of a roaster drum. Best performance was observed in transversal mixing (cascading and cataracting type of modes) of soaked soybeansplits, with recommended filling degree as 30 % and having Froude number as 0.330.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

040151   MAHALAKSHMI P, AHILADEVI P (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Kumulur, Trichy - 621 712, Email: mahapath2012@gmail.com) : Ecofriendly management of fusarium wilt of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) by application of organic amendments. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 7-11.

The effect of different organic inputs viz., neem cake, mauha cake, coirpith and vermi compost were evaluated against the wilt disease incidence and the growth and yield of carnation. Preliminary screening of different oil cakes and water extracts of organic manures against the growth Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. dianthi was carried out by poisoned food technique under laboratory conditions. Among the oil cake and organic manures tested in vitro, neem cake (10 %) effectively reduced the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. dianthi which recorded a minimum mycelial growth of 1.76 cm with maximum per cent inhibition of 80.44 over control. In organic field experiment, neem cake significantly reduced the disease incidence (12.47 PDI), followed by mauha cake and vermi compost which recorded 14.45 and 16.04 PDI of wilt incidence, respectively. The use of vermicompost significantly increased the growth and yield parameters viz., stalk length (85.25 cm), stalk girth (3.88 cm), no of branches (3.85 / plant), no of flowers (3.11/ plant) and flower diameter (4.32 cm). 

3 tables, 15 ref

040150   BALASUBRAMANIAN S, SHUKLA V (ICAR - Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering Regional Centre, Coimbatore - 641 007, Tamil Nadu, Email: balaciphet@gmail.com) : Formulation of little millet based south Indian traditional tribal food (Achikae) through linear programming approach. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 1-6.

Achikae, one of the traditional food products of south Indian tribal people has been prepared from small millets using linear programming (LP) model. Dehulled little millet, dried coconut and sugar mixed formulations were designed using linear programming (LP) model to minimise the total cost of finished product. The little millet was dehulled after soaking (8 h), parboiling (30 min) and roasting (140 °C, 15 min). Cost and nutritive value of LP formulated achikae mix was calculated and sensory evaluation was done. The low cost mix product (Rs. 42 kg^-1) obtained using linear programming was composed of little millet (51.0 %), dried coconut (32.8 %) and sugar (16.2 %). The formulated mix provided 5.05-6.53 g of protein, 140 mg of calcium and 5.96-7.72 mg of iron. Sensory evaluation results revealed that all the formulated mix scored acceptability range.

1 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

040045   VERMA A K, RAJKUMAR V, KUMAR M S (ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom- 281 122, Uttar Pradesh, Email: vrvet@rediffmail.com) : Influence of litchi (Litchi Chinensis) pericarp powder on quality and storage stability of goat meat nuggets. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 104-11.

A study was aimed at using litchi ( ) pericarp (LP) powder as an antioxidant Litchi chinensis dietary fibre at 1 % and 2 % levels in goat meat nuggets. The dietary and antioxidant potential of LP powder and influence of its incorporation on the physicochemical, colour, textural, sensory and storage qualities of the nuggets were evaluated against control (without LP). Litchi pericarp was found to be rich in dietary fibre content and possessed good antioxidant potential. Quercetin, ellagic acid, catechin, P-coumaric acid, 2,4-dihydroxy benzoic acid, 4-OH-benzoic acid and vanillic acid were the major phytochemcials among total 13 phenolic compounds quantified by gas chromatography mass spectrometry. Quality characteristics of nuggets such as moisture, fat, total dietary fibre, total phenolics, colour (lightness, redness) and textural properties (hardness, gumminess) were affected (P<0.05) by added LP, though the overall acceptability remained unchanged. Products with LP had lower (P<0.05) thiobarbituric acid reactive substances number than the control throughout the storage period. Litchi pericarp (2 % level) has great potential to be used as a source of dietary fibre and antioxidants in goat meat nuggets. 

3 illus, 4 tables, 29 ref

040041   SWARNKAR C P, SINGH D (Animal Health Dep, ICAR- Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar- 304 501, Rajasthan, Email: swarnkarcp@yahoo.com) : Prevalence of species in sheep of arid and semi-arid Rajasthan. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 79-85.

With the aim to devise suitable preventive strategy, an assessment on the diversity and seasonal occurrence of coccidia was carried out in farm and field flocks of sheep in Rajasthan. From April 2004 to March 2019, a total of 139428 faecal samples were examined for spp. Eimeria infection and to determine composition of prevalent species at monthly intervals. The data were analyzed to observe the effect of different geographical regions, management practices, seasons and months on the prevalence of infection. Flock-wise it varied from 27.0 % (arid farm and Eimeria semi-arid field) to 33.8 % (semi-arid farm). Within the agroclimatic regions, management of flocks had significant (P<0.001) effect with higher prevalence of spp. in the farm as compared to Eimeria the field flocks in the semi-arid region while reverse trend was observed in the arid region. Effects of year, season and month had significant (P<0.001) effect on the prevalence of infection Eimeria in all categories of sheep flocks in Rajasthan. On comparison between farm and field flocks (irrespective of the agroclimatic region), a non-consistent pattern was observed for annual prevalence of infection. The overall seasonal prevalence varied significantly (P<0.001) Eimeria from 25.1 (winter) to 31.8 % (monsoon) in farm flocks and from 24.4 (winter) to 33.3 % (monsoon) in field flocks. As per flock management, the overall monthly prevalence varied significantly (P<0.001) from 21.7 (January) to 33.6 % (July) in farm and from 22.7 (March) to 37.6 % (July) in the field. In general, the prevalence of infection among flocks started rising with increase in Eimeria environmental temperature in April probably due to stress on animals and reached to peak in July/August due to prevalent hot-humid conditions. The overall composition of species Eimeria showed higher proportion of (44.2-45.1 %) and (27.3-29.2 %). The other species E. parva E. pallida prevalent were (11.8-12.6 %), (4.3-5.0%) a (2.9-6.3 %), E. faurei E. ovinoidalis , E. intricat E. granulosa E. ahsata (4.2-5.0 %) and (0.4-1.1 %). For majority of the species, effect of season and month was non-significant in both the agroclimatic regions. The study suggested that moderate level of infection with spp. in adult sheep persisted throughout the year with higher Eimeria prevalence during monsoon. Adult animals with moderate infection contaminate the environment and are the main source of infection for lambs, particularly in the lambing period.

1 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

040038   MANGWAI T, FAHIM A, SINGH R, ALI N, KUMAR A, SAHU D S (Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut- 250 110, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ahmadfahim300@gmail.com) : Feeding efficiency of improved feeder in stall fed kids. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 67-70.

A study was conducted to evaluate the effect of improved feeder on stall fed kids. Fifteen Barbari kids (9-10 months-old) of 10 to 12 kg body weight were randomly divided into 3 groups and maintained on grazing with concentrate supplementation (Gr 1), stall feeding on conventional feeder (Gr 2) and improved feeder (Gr 3) and housed in stall of 10 x 12 sq. ft. The average daily gain of kids differed significantly (P<0.01) among the groups; it was higher in Gr 1 followed by Gr 3 and Gr 2.The average daily feed intake significantly differed (P<0.01) between Gr 2 and Gr 3 kids with higher intake in improved feeder. There was significantly (P<0.01) less wastage of feed recorded in the improved feeder. The comparative results obtained for intensively reared kids showed that improved feeder is more efficient in terms of feed intake due to minimum wastage in stall fed kids than conventional feeder.

4 tables, 6 ref

040037   MOHAPATRA A, DE K, PRAKASH V, KUMAR D, NAQVI S M K (ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar- 304 501, Rajasthan, Email: arpita.ndri.mohapatra1@gmail.com) : Effect of different milking methods on milk yield and growth of lambs. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 62-6.

Indian sheep are unexploited for their milk production potential. Among 43 sheep breeds, Patanwadi is considered to have higher milk yield. With the aim to compare different milking methods to get more yield and better lamb growth, 18 Patanwadi ewes having single born lambs were selected along with their lambs and randomly divided into three groups. Milk yield potential of ewes in Gr A was measured by hand milking method, whereas of Gr B by weigh-suckle-weigh method and of Gr C by hand milking followed by weigh-suckle-weigh method. Average daily milk yield was significantly (P<0.05) higher (658.00±24.60 ml) in Gr C compared to the ewes in Gr A (541.89±20.00 ml). Gr A lambs were fed by bottle feeding method while, Gr B and C lambs by suckling their dams. The lambs in suckling groups (Gr B and C) had significantly (P<0.05) higher growth compared to group A. The pre-weaning average daily gain (ADG) for Gr A lambs was 119 g as compared to Gr B and C (156 g). It was inferred that post-milking suckling method is the better method in Patanwadi ewes with respect to milk yield as well as for higher body weight gain in lambs.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

040034   DHILON N S, CHEEMA R S, KASWAN S (Veterinary Gynaecology and Obstetrics Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Punjab, Email: ranjna.cheema@gmail.com) : Seasonal variation in sperm characteristics, antioxidant defence systems, seminal plasma testosterone and total proteins of beetal bucks. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 48-52.

Fourteen mature Beetal bucks were randomly selected and evaluated for sperm attributes, oxidative stress, antioxidant defence systems, seminal plasma testosterone and total protein during two major seasons (summer and winter) of the year 2018-19. It was observed that bucks responded differentially to summer and winter stresses. Sperm counts were significantly (P<0.05) higher during winter (2.6±0.2x10 /ml) than summer (1.7±0.1x10 /ml). Individual motility and 9 9 viability were significantly (P<0.05) improved in winter (69.9±3.0 % and 78.4±1.4 %) as compared to summer (59.7±2.1 % and 68.5±2.8 %). Malondialdehyde and superoxide dismutase (SOD) were significantly (P<0.05) higher during summer compared to winter. There was positive correlation between lipid peroxidation (LPO) and all sperm attributes and only viability during summer and winter, respectively. SOD was negatively correlated with sperm attributes during both the seasons. The means for the activities of catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GRE) were quite opposite to LPO and SOD i.e. higher during winter as compared to summer and suggested that SOD was not utilized by the spermatozoa to reduce oxidative stress in summer and in return sperm attributes remained low. The higher activity of CAT and GRE during winter acted in conjunction with SOD for its utilization by spermatozoa to reduce the oxidative stress and enhance the sperm function in winter. CAT and GRE were positively and negatively correlated with all sperm attributes except plasma membrane integrity (PMI), volume and initial motility, acrosome integrity during winter, respectively. But, the correlations were negative for all sperm attributes (catalase) and positive for all attributes except PMI (GRE) during winter. The mean testosterone and total proteins levels were significantly (P<0.05) higher during summer as compared to winter. It was concluded that season influenced the semen quality in Beetal bucks and it was in general, better in winter than in summer.

2 tables, 21 ref

040033   KUMAR R, BALAGANUR K, SINGH A K, SANKHYAN S K (ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar- 304 501, Rajasthan, Email: rajivbiotech028@gmail.com) : Sequence analysis of ovine leptin and ghrelin genes in subfertile malpura ewes of Rajasthan. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 43-7.

In the present study, leptin (exon 2 and exon 3) and ghrelin (exon 3 and exon 4) gene sequences were analysed for the presence of single nucleotide polymorphism and its association with subfertile condition in Malpura sheep. Leptin gene sequences revealed 11 non-synonymous (missense) and 8 synonymous mutations. Some of these missense mutations are novel to ovine leptin gene and not were reported earlier. Sixteen SNPs were observed in ghrelin gene sequences. Ghrelin allele A was not reported in true cyclic Malpura ewes which warrants further study. 

2 tables, 16 ref

040032   WAHEED M M, EL-SHAHAT K H , SALLAM A A, EL-SAIDY B E, KHALIFA T A A (Clinical Studies Dep, King Faisal Univ, Al-Ahsa 31982, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Email: mmwaheed@kfu.edu.sa) : Influence of vitamin b₂ , ascorbic acid and melatonin on reproduction of ewes during summer season under temperate climate. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 38-42.

The influence of vitamin B , ascorbic acid and melatonin on the reproduction of 84 healthy 2 pluriparous mature crossbred (3/8 Finnish × 5/8 Rahmani) ewes was studied during summer, 2018. Ewes were allocated into 4 groups: Gr 1 (control) injected 2ml saline daily for 3 weeks, Gr 2 and Gr 3 was injected intramuscularly 2 ml (15 mg) of vitamin B and ascorbic acid, respectively daily for 3 2 weeks. Gr 4 was injected subcutaneously 0.5 mg melatonin twice daily for 3 weeks. All treated groups (Gr 2, 3 and 4) were given 1.0g zinc chloride and 2.5mg chromium in form of 6 ml orally once a week for 3 weeks. An intact ram was used for oestrus detection twice daily and ewes were bred by natural mating. Laparoscopic examinations were carried out for detection of ovulation rates. Results revealed that ascorbic acid resulted in a significantly (P<0.05) decreased mean interval from treatment to oestrus as compared with control (15.73±1.83 vs 22.64±2.50 days, respectively). An improvement in the lambing rate in Gr 2, 3 and 4 than Gr 1 (80.0, 90.91 and 90.00 vs 72.72 %, respectively) was observed. The ovulation rate was significantly (P<0.05) increased in Gr 4 than in Gr 2 and 1 (1.60±0.16 vs 1.20±0.13 and 1.14±0.00, respectively). Follicular development did not vary among groups. In conclusion, vitamin B , ascorbic acid and melatonin have beneficial effect on 2 the reproduction of ewes during summer under temperate climate.

1 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

040031   PATHAK J, KHARCHE S D, GOEL A , SIKARWAR A K S, RANJAN R, CHAUHAN M S (Animal Physiology and Reproduction Div, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Goats, Makhdoom- 281 122, Uttar Pradesh, Email: kharche62@gmail.com) : Effects of different voltages and pulse durations on caprine tetraploid embryo production. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 32-7.

A study was aimed to optimize the electrofusion parameters for generation of caprine tetraploid fertilized embryos. Freshly recovered 2-cell goat fertilized embryos were in vitro in vitro submitted to electrofusion with varying voltages (1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 kV/cm) and time duration (2, 4 and 6 sec) combinations to produce tetraploid goat embryos. Fused embryos were cultured in μ RVCL (Research vitro cleave) media further for 8 to 12 days for subsequent embryo development. Fusion, cleavage and blastocyst rate at voltage 1.2kV/cm for 4 sec duration was significantly μ higher (P<0.05) than other groups. It was also observed that less than one third of electrofused embryos bore deviation from the expected ploidy. It was concluded that optimum condition for electrofusion of goat fertilized 2-cell embryos to produce goat tetraploid embryos is 1.2 kV/cm for 4 μ sec so as to get maximum number of fused and cleaved goat embryos. 

1 table, 18 ref

040030   BHATT R S, CHAUHAN I, SONI S R S A (ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar-304 501, Rajasthan, Email: indrachauhan55@gmail.com) : Performance of broiler rabbits reared in semi-arid Rajasthan. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 27-31.

Data on growth performance, reproduction and kit mortality were analysed for rabbit breeds (Soviet Chinchilla -SC, New Zealand White- NZW, White Giant- WG, Grey Giant- GG and synthetic breed, Black Brown- BB) born between April 2018 and March 2019 at ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar (Rajasthan). The average litter sizes at birth for SC, NZW, WG, GG and BB were 5.85±0.32, 6.71±0.33, 5.75±0.40, 5.62±0.69 and 6.33±0.37, respectively while the average litter sizes at weaning were 5.45±0.31, 6.11±0.35, 5.64±0.40, 5.37±0.72 and 5.85±0.35, respectively. The average litter weights at birth were 352.66±17.31, 399.86±17.66, 364.11±27.83, 365.94±39.25 and 387.58±23.52 g, respectively in SC, NZW, WG, GG and BB, while the corresponding average litter weights at weaning were 2.72±0.16, 3.33±0.19, 3.15±0.23, 3.07±0.46 and 3.21±0.18 kg, respectively. Pre-weaning average daily gains were 15.65, 17.32, 17.54, 18.18 and 17.40 g/day for SC, NZW, WG, GG and BB, respectively while the corresponding post-weaning average daily gains were 21.50, 18.40, 18.40, 20.82 and 20.10 g/d, respectively. The incidences of kit mortality in SC, NZW, WG, GG and BB were 8.56, 5.38, 1.14, 5.81 and 6.74 %, respectively. The effect of breed was non-significant for litter sizes at birth and weaning, litter weights at birth and weaning, average daily gains and kit mortality. The study revealed that NZW had higher litter sizes at birth and weaning as compared with other breeds. GG was the fastest growing breed in the pre-weaning period, but SC surpassed other breeds in the performance of growth rate in the post-weaning period. GG had the highest body weight at 84 days, followed by SC. GG was the heaviest breed at mating but, at kindling, WG was the heaviest breed. At both mating and kindling, NZW was the lightest breed. WG breed had higher survival in the kit stage while SC breed had the lowest kit survival.

2 tables, 12 ref

040029   RATHER M A, KUTHU B, HAMADANI A , AHANGER S, BABA M A, BABA J A, SHAH M M (Sheep Husbandry Dep, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ, Kashmir-190 006, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: mubashir.70011@gmail.com) : Effect of non-genetic factors on survivability and cumulative mortality of Kashmir merino lambs. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 22-6.

A study was designed to evaluate the effect of different factors affecting survivability and cumulative mortality up to yearling age in lambs maintained at Government Sheep Breeding Farm, Kralapathri (Jammu and Kashmir). Data of 4085 birth records spread over 11 years (2006 to 2017) pertaining to Kashmir Merino sheep were used. The overall least squares means of pre-weaning (0-3 month) and post-weaning (3-6, 6-9 and 9-12 months) survivability in Kashmir Merino lambs were 88.33±1.38, 95.69±11.03, 97.96±0.56 and 98.28±0.00 % respectively. The effect of year was significant (P<0.01) on all the traits. The effect of sex was significant (P<0.01) on survivability from 0-3, 3-6 months and 6-9 months with higher survivability in female lambs. The effect of parity was significant (P<0.05) only on survivability from 0-3 months and lambs born to primiparous ewes had lower survivability. The overall mean lamb mortality rate was 18.43±2.17 % from birth to 12 months age. The effects of year and sex were significant (P<0.01/0.05) on all the traits under study. The effect of parity was significant (P<0.05) on mortality up to 1 and 3 months only while effects of birth type and birth weight remained non-significant for all the traits under study. The heritability estimates for cumulative mortalities from birth to 12 months were low and ranging from 0.04±0.27 to 0.25±0.22. Improvement in management of pregnant and lactating ewes will effectively decrease mortality rate in this flock and improve production of breeding rams and ewes.

2 tables, 19 ref

040028   YADAV D K, ARORA R, JAIN A (ICAR-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources, Karnal-132 001, Haryana, Email: dkyadav66@gmail.com) : Evaluation of five ecotypes of deccani sheep in Maharashtra. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 15-21.

Deccani sheep inhabit in five districts viz., Ahmednagar, Kolhapur, Satara, Sangli and Solapur of Maharashtra known as Sangamneri, Kolhapuri, Lonand, Madgyal and Solapuri, respectively. The present study characterized the five ecotypes and provided their comprehensive information on morphometric descriptions, current distribution and population and production, reproduction and management practices. Using purposive sampling in five districts, 1104 sheep (two or more permanent incisors) were recorded for morphometric traits. Data on other traits were obtained from owners of animals by personal interview. The sheep owners primarily belonged to Dhangar and Ramoshi communities. Average family size of sheep owners ranged from 5.9 (Kolhapuri sheep) to 8.8 (Solapuri sheep). The highest literacy was among the Sangamneri sheep farmers (58.8 %) while the least was among the Solapuri (44.7 %). Average flock size was maximum in Solapuri (96.1) and minimum in Madgyal sheep (33.4). Coat colour of five ecotypes was different. Madgyal sheep had typical roman nose. Population of Lonand was the least. The flocks were migratory and primarily maintained on grazing resources. Madgyal sheep were the heaviest (male 57.5kg and female 44.7kg), whereas Lonand were the lightest (male 42.0kg; female 29.3kg). The results showed that Deccani sheep across the five districts of Maharashtra were distinct. To maintain their genetic distinctness, effective breeding policies are required. Registering them as sheep breeds and establishing their breed societies is the first step in setting the goals towards their improvement, conservation and sustainable use.

6 tables, 5 ref

040027   NIMBKAR C (Animal Husbandry Div, Phaltan- 415 523, Maharashtra, Email: Chanda.Nimbkar@gmail.com) : Sources of variation in pre-sale weights of osmanabadi goat kids in villages of Maharashtra, india. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 8-14.

This study pertains to pre-sale weights (about 3 months of age) of Osmanabadi kids recorded under the Osmanabadi Goat Field Unit of ICAR-All India Coordinated Research Project on Goat Improvement. Pre-sale weight records of 4394 kids born to 1604 does over nine years (2009 to 2018) in 10 villages from six districts of Maharashtra state were analyzed using mixed model restricted maximum likelihood analysis. The fixed effect of strain of kid was not significant, indicating that variation in colour and appearance among kids did not influence their weights. The influence of other fixed effects such as sex, birth type and dam parity on 3-month weight was as expected (females being lighter than males, triplets and quadruplets being lighter than twins and twins being lighter than singles, kids of dams from parity 2 to 4 weighing the highest, followed by kids of dams from parity 5 to 7, parity >7 and lastly parity 1). The effect of whether the birth date of the kids was accurate or estimated was significant, indicating an under-estimation of the age of kids by the owners. A direct genetic effect and a maternal permanent environmental effect (and not the maternal genetic effect) could be fitted in the absence of pedigrees. It was found that the variation in management among owners could best be accounted by fitting owner as a random effect. However, fitting the contemporary group (village-year-season) effect as a fixed effect was a better option than fitting it as a random effect. In village smallholder situations with inherent data recording limitations, as maternal effects cannot be accounted appropriately, it may be a better option to use traits of the dam such as body size and milk yield for selection of kids rather than kids' pre-sale weight as a selection criterion.

2 tables, 10 ref

040026   GADEKAR Y P, SONI A, SHINDE A K, KANDEEPAN G (ICAR-Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Avikanagar- 304 501, Rajasthan, Email: yogirajlpt@gmail.com) : Clean meat: Boon or bane?. Indian J Small Rumin 2020, 26(1), 1-7.

Meat has played an important role in human nutrition since long. With urbanization and rising income, the demands for meat and meat products are increasing, especially in the developing world. With intensive livestock production, animal suffering has been increasing which is a major concern for most of the meat consumers globally. Similarly, environmental health is deteriorating day-by–day Clean meat production seems to be a feasible and viable alternative for conventional livestock production. Clean meat technology has multiple benefits. Both the higher cost of production and consumer acceptance of clean meat are major challenges for the researchers globally. Efforts need to be directed for the production of cost-effective and large scale clean meat with similar sensory attributes to that of conventional meat. This review looks into the technology of clean meat production, its merits, challenges and consumer perspectives etc.

1 illus, 27 ref

040001   GAUTAM D, SINGH D, KUMAR A, PATRA S K, AHIRWAR M K (Animal Husbandary Dep, Veterinary Hospital Khannaudhi, Madhya Pradesh, Email: gautamdeepesh87@gmail.com) : Successful retrieval of fish hook from indian flap-shelled turtle (Lissemys punctata) via intra-oral approach. Indian J Vet Sci Biotechnol 2020, 16(1), 75-6.

Lissemys punctata, an Indian flap-shelled turtle is a fresh water species found widespread and common in South Asia. Injuries due to entangled fish hook is the most common affection reported in these species (Balazs and Poley, 1993). Because fresh water turtles are opportunistic scavengers and also take live prey, they are most likely vulnerable to capture with baited hooks set to catch fish (Howey and Dinkelacker, 2013). The present case report discusses the retrieval and management of an entangled fish hook in an Indian flap-shelled turtle.

4 illus, 5 ref

039977   PATEL B R, PANCHAL M T, DHAMI A J, SARVAIYA N P, PATHAN M M (Animal Reproduction Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand- 388 001, Gujarat, Email: binalp63@gmail.com) : Comparative plasma endocrine, metabolic and mineral profile of cyclic, acyclic, endometritic and pregnant buffaloes. Indian J Vet Sci Biotechnol 2020, 15(4), 12-4.

Circulating concentrations of hormones, metabolites, and minerals reflect the physio-pathological status of reproduction in animals. This study was carried out on infertile (anestrus, endometritic), normal healthy cyclic and pregnant buffaloes to evaluate the comparative plasma progesterone (P₄) and estrogen (E₂) hormones, plasma total protein, total cholesterol, calcium, and phosphorus profile. The study showed higher mean plasma E₂ and lower P₄ levels in the follicular phase of estrous cycle in buffaloes. Significantly (p < 0.05) higher mean plasma P₄ level and lower E₂ levels were recorded during the luteal phase and in endometritic and pregnant buffaloes. Total plasma protein concentration was non-significantly higher in normal cyclic than acyclic and endometritic buffaloes. It was also comparatively lower in buffalo with 9 months of pregnancy than 3 and 6 months of pregnancy. The mean plasma total cholesterol level was significantly (p<0.05) higher in pregnant than acyclic and endometritic buffaloes. Cyclic buffaloes had significantly (p <0.05) higher mean plasma calcium levels than acyclic buffaloes. Plasma phosphorus concentration, however, did not show any significant difference between different stages of the reproductive cycle.

1 table, 18 ref

039975   JOSHI P M, PATEL D C, PATEL P D, SARVAIYA N P (Animal Nutrition Research Dep, Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry Coll, Anand-388001, Gujarat, Email: dcp1111@aau.in) : Effect of chelated mineral mixture on blood profile and fertility in anoestrus buffaloes of tribal areas of Dahod district in Gujarat, India. Indian J Vet Sci Biotechnol 2020, 15(3), 61-5.

An on-farm trial for 90 days was conducted at four tribal villages to assess the effect of chelated mineral mixture (CMM) supplementation on blood biochemistry as well as hormonal and mineral status, nutrient intake and reproductive performance of the anoestrus buffaloes (n=24). The animals selected were randomly divided into two groups of 12 animals each. The group T1 was the control group (farmer’s feeding schedule), and T2 treatment group (T1 + CMM @ 50 g/animal/day). Blood collection was done on days 0, 45, and 90 of the experiment from the animals of both the groups for assessment of blood biochemical, hormonal, and mineral status of the animals. Average DM, DCP, and TDN intake in anoestrus buffaloes calculated as per information collected from farmers were statistically similar among both the groups and were as per ICAR requirements of animals. Results revealed significant (p <0.05) improvement in hemoglobin, serum glucose, total protein, total cholesterol, progesterone, estradiol and macro (Ca, P) – micro (Zn, Fe, Cu, Co, Mn) mineral status of chelated mineral supplemented group as compared to control animals. The number of days taken to come into oestrus in anoestrus buffaloes (51.22±3.78 vs 75.00±6.18 days for 9 vs 5 animals), as well as the cost of feeding (Rs. 5441 vs 8039), was also significantly (p<0.05) reduced upon supplementation of CMM as compared to control group. The control group recorded a 32.32 % higher cost of rearing than the treatment group during the experimental period. The findings revealed the beneficial role of chelated minerals supplementation in improving the health, nutritional and reproductive status of anoestrus buffaloes.

3 tables, 24 ref

039970   PARMAR K H, KAVANI F S, PATBANDHA T K, PARIKH S S (Junagadh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh, Email: parmarkiran16@yahoo.co.in) : Fresh and post-thaw seminal attributes of Jafarabadi buffalo bulls. Indian J Vet Sci Biotechnol 2020, 15(3), 45-8.

The study was conducted on four Jafarabadi breeding bulls, 5-6 years old to know the fresh and post-thawed seminal characteristics based on total of 192 semen ejaculates evaluated and cryopreserved over one year period. The mean values of fresh neat seminal characteristics of Jafarabadi bulls, viz., ejaculate volume (ml), colour/density (score), sperm concentration (million/ml), mass activity (score), initial motility (%), live sperm (%), abnormal sperm (%), HOS reactive sperm (%) and acrosomal integrity (%) were 5.19±0.18, 2.38±0.10, 1253.36±24.75, 3.73±0.05, 80.31±0.05, 86.20±0.64, 5.00±0.40, 85.75±0.43 and 93.56±0.56, respectively, whereas the mean post-thawed sperm characteristics, viz., progressive sperm motility, live sperm (%), abnormal sperm (%), HOS reactive sperm (%), acrosomal integrity (%) and first insemination conception rate (%) observed were 57.60±0.36, 66.34±0.53, 8.85±0.33, 56.97±0.46, 75.26±0.17 and 44.63±0.14, respectively. The semen quality of fresh and post-thawed samples observed was within normal limit for use in breeding program with satisfactory first insemination conception rate.

1 table, 22 ref

039969   BHARADWAJ M, SINGH K V (Animal Husbandry Dep, Vikas Bhavan, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: sandeep70prakash@gmail.com) : Efficacy of essential oil based phytogenic spray in augmenting wound healing. Indian J Vet Sci Biotechnol 2020, 15(3), 41-4.

Wound healing is a complex cellular, pathophysiological and biochemical cascade of sequence resulting in reconstruction, remodeling as well as regeneration of injured tissues. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the efficacy of essential oil based polyherbal spray on wound repair. Seven horses with accidental wounds were treated with a topical application of an essential oil based polyherbal spray, under field conditions. When compared with a contra-lateral control (therapy regime included conventional topical antibiotic dressing), the phytogenic spray succeeded in an early and healthy reconstruction of the wound site. This phytogenic spray also worked as a fly repellent and prevented myiasis. It was concluded that the topical use of phytogenic spray is not only effective, safe and simple, but also reduces the otherwise physiological body burden of antibiotics in horses.

1 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

039953   BALASUBRAMANIAN S, TUKARAM K A (ICAR-Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering Regional Centre, Coimbatore- 641 007, Email: balaciphet@gmail.com) : A study on transverse flow pattern of soybean splits in a closed type horizontal rotating drum. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 28 - 33.

Roasting drums have generally been used in soybean roasters. The different flow patterns of transverse motions viz., slipping, slumping, rolling, cascading, cataracting and centrifuging formation inside the rotating drum influenced the roasting material's bed behaviour through selection of its operating variables such as rotational speed and filling degree, thus important in the design of a roaster drum. Best performance was observed in transversal mixing (cascading and cataracting type of modes) of soaked soybeansplits, with recommended filling degree as 30 % and having Froude number as 0.330.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

039949   MAHALAKSHMI P, AHILADEVI P (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Trichy - 621 712, Email: mahapath2012@gmail.com) : Ecofriendly management of fusarium wilt of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) by application of organic amendments. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 7-11.

The effect of different organic inputs viz., neem cake, mauha cake, coirpith and vermi compost were evaluated against the wilt disease incidence and the growth and yield of carnation. Preliminary screening of different oil cakes and water extracts of organic manures against the growth Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. dianthi was carried out by poisoned food technique under laboratory conditions. Among the oil cake and organic manures tested in vitro, neem cake (10 %) effectively reduced the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. dianthi which recorded a minimum mycelial growth of 1.76 cm with maximum per cent inhibition of 80.44 over control. In organic field experiment, neem cake significantly reduced the disease incidence (12.47 PDI), followed by mauha cake and vermi compost which recorded 14.45 and 16.04 PDI of wilt incidence, respectively. The use of vermicompost significantly increased the growth and yield parameters viz., stalk length (85.25 cm), stalk girth (3.88 cm), no of branches (3.85/ plant), no of flowers (3.11/ plant) and flower diameter (4.32 cm). 

3 tables, 18 ref

039948   BALASUBRAMANIAN S, SHUKLA V (ICAR - Central Institute of Agricultural Engineering Regional Centre, Coimbatore - 641 007, Email: balaciphet@gmail.com) : Formulation of little millet based south Indian traditional tribal food (Achikae) through linear programming approach. Adv Appl Res 2020, 12(1), 1-6.

Achikae, one of the traditional food products of south Indian tribal people has been prepared from small millets using linear programming (LP) model. Dehulled little millet, dried coconut and sugar mixed formulations were designed using linear programming (LP) model to minimise the total cost of finished product. The little millet was dehulled after soaking (8 h), parboiling (30 min) and roasting (140 °C, 15 min). Cost and nutritive value of LP formulated achikae mix was calculated and sensory evaluation was done. The low cost mix product (Rs. 42 kg^-1 ) obtained using linear programming was composed of little millet (51.0 %), dried coconut (32.8 %) and sugar (16.2 %). The formulated mix provided 5.05-6.53 g of protein, 140 mg of calcium and 5.96-7.72 mg of iron. Sensory evaluation results revealed that all the formulated mix scored acceptability range. 

1 illus, 4 tables, 8 ref

039673   JEEVAN U, SREELATHA U, KURIAN P S, ANUPAMA T V, SREEKUMAR P M (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur - 680 656, Email: jeevan.horti@gmail.com) : Assessment of resistance against bacterial wilt in marigold genotypes under humid tropics. J Trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 152-9.

Bacterial wilt of marigold caused by Ralstonia solanacearum is a highly devastating disease that limits successful cultivation of marigold under humid tropics. With the objective to screen genotypes of different Tagetes species for resistance to bacterial wilt, the present study was conducted at the Department of Floriculture & Landscaping, College of Horticulture, Thrissur, Kerala, India in two seasons viz., rainy and winter, during 2018-19. Thirty two marigold genotypes were subjected to field evaluation in a wilt sick plot. Among the genotypes, there were eight F1 hybrids, eight varieties, seven local collections of T. erecta, eight genotypes of T. patula (including three varieties and five local collections) and one genotype of T.tenuifolia. The study revealed that two local collections of T. erecta viz., M-1 and M-2 were completely resistant to bacterial wilt. The resistance of these two local collections to bacterial wilt was also confirmed by artificial screening studies. It was also observed that bacterial wilt incidence was severe during winter season compared to monsoon. As per the result of screening conducted during rainy season, there were four resistant genotypes, five moderately resistant types, five moderately susceptible types, ten susceptible types and eight highly susceptible types while during winter season the number of highly susceptible types recorded was 20, along with eight susceptible types, two moderately susceptible types and two resistant types. During rainy season, flavonoid content in both leaves and petals was highest in M-1, M-2 and was on par with Bhagwati, which showed a PDI of 4.16% in field evaluation. Resistance to bacterial wilt was negatively correlated with flavonoid content in leaves and petals.

4 illus, 5 tables, 16 ref

039672   GEORGE M, CHERIAN K A, LOUIS V (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur - 680 656, Email: milshageorge.ckl@gmail.com) : In vivo efficacy of new molecules of fungicides against Eumusae leaf spot disease of French plantain cultivar Nendran (Musa AAB). J Trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 132-39.

The French plantain cultivar, Nendran (Musa AAB) is the most widely and commercially cultivated variety of banana in Kerala. But this cultivar is highly susceptible to foliar fungal diseases especially leaf spot diseases. Among the leaf spot diseases, Sigatoka leaf spot caused by Mycosphaerella spp. poses a serious threat to banana cultivation. The studies on characterization of the pathogen associated with Sigatoka leafspot disease complex in Kerala revealed that the predominant leaf spot disease is Eumusae leaf spot disease caused by Mycosphaerella eumusae. With an objective to develop a fungicidal recommendation for the sustainable management of this disease, a field experiment was conducted during 2016-17 at BananaResearch Station, Kannara by evaluating the efficacy of six chemical fungicides viz., trifloxystrobin (25 %)+ tebuconazole (50 %) (Nativo® – 0.4g/L), propiconazole (Tilt® – 1ml/L), copper hydroxide (Kocide® – 2g/L), pyraclostrobin (Headline® – 1g/L), hexaconazole (5 %) + captan (70 %) (Taqat® – 2g/L) and Bordeaux mixture (1 %). All the chemical fungicides used in the study were found to be superior compared to unsprayed control. However, there was a variation in the efficacy between the treatments. The foliar application of the systemic fungicide trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole (0.4g/L) recorded the lowest percent disease severity(PDS) of 15.43 per cent with the eighth leaf of the plant as the youngest leaf spotted (YLS) and the maximum disease development time (DDT) of 50.66 days. Among the contact fungicides evaluated, the lowest per cent disease severity of 16.65 per cent was recorded in plants sprayed with copper hydroxide which recorded DDT of 49.33 days and YLS of 7.29. The analysis of fungicide residue in the fruits revealed that there was no residue of the chemicals left in the fruit. The study revealed that four times foliar spraying of systemic fungicide, trifloxystrobin + tebuconazole (0.4g/L) or contact fungicide, copper hydroxide (2g/L) starting from the initial appearance of the disease on the lowest leaves of 75 per cent plants was safe and effective for the management of Eumusae leaf spot disease of banana.

5 tables, 21 ref

039671   INDHUSHREE A, KURUVILA A (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur - 680 656, Email: indhuashree@gmail.com) : Performance of small cardamom export from India. J trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 122-31.

Small cardamom, the queen of spices, plays an important role in India’s economy due to robust domestic demand and increasing price. However, the export of the spice witnessed huge decline and it became more of domestic market oriented. In recent years, the export of small cardamom from India was found to be increasing steadily. The present study was conducted to analyse the export performance of small cardamom from India in terms of export growth rate and instability, sources of growth and variability in export value and the geographic concentration of export. During the pre-WTO period, the growth rates in terms of export value, quantity and unit value were found to be negative, while the instability in export was high. Post-WTOperiod recorded positive and higher growth rate and comparatively lower instability in export. Among the different periods under study, lower growth rate and higher instability were observed during Period II which could be the result of increased domestic demand and stiff competition in international market especially from Guatemala. Change in mean export unit value was found to be the major source of growth in value of export during both pre- and post-WTO periods, while the change in variability of export unit value contributed more to the change in variance of export value. The geographic concentration of export increased in post-WTO period compared to pre-WTO period and the exports were more concentrated towards the Middle-East countries. Higher cost of production, domestic market orientation and Non-Tariff Barriers were the major issues that need to be addressed to strengthen the export markets and improve the performance of small cardamom export from India.

7 illus, 5 tables, 8 ref

039670   SREEKALA G S, MEENAKUMARI K S, VIGI S (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellayani - 695 522, Email: drsreekalags@gmail.com) : Microbial isolate for the production of quality white pepper (Piper nigrum L.). J trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 114-21.

White pepper, the value added product of black pepper is traditionally produced by decortications of ripe or dried black pepper berries. Excessive time taken for retting imparts off odour to the traditionally prepared white pepper making the process and product less acceptable. An experiment was conducted to standardise a microbial method that could reduce the retting period and off odour. Screening of 25 microbial isolates comprising 21 bacterial and 4 fungi was undertaken. The experiment was replicated four times. Six best isolates (five bacteria and one fungus) which reduced retting period and produced good colour and appearance to the white pepper were selected by visual observation. Selected six isolates were inoculated again on the ripe berries in four replications along with uninoculated control. Three bacterial isolates were found very effective to reduce the retting period by half compared to control. Isolate I₁ could ret the ripe berries with minimum time (4.25 days) and produce white pepper which had superior white colour and appearance and which was on par with uninoculated control as per sensory score. The odour of the white pepper produced by all isolates was significantly better than uninoculated control. Quality parameters, such as essential oiland oleoresin produced by the best isolate (I₁), was on par with the control. Morphological, biochemical and molecular characterisation of the best three isolates was done. The 16S r DNA sequencing (1500bp)revealed that isolate I₁ was a relative of Bacillus pumilus. White pepper produced by the isolate of Bacilluspumilis was superior as it required reduced retting period with product having less off odour, suggesting that the isolate could be used for commercial production of white pepper. The other two isolates belonged to Rhizobium and Sphingobacterium genus.

3 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

039669   SHINY R, SREEKUMAR J, BYJU G (ICAR-Central Tuber Crops Research Institute, Kerala - 695 017, Email: byju.g@icar.gov.in) : Coupled multi-model climate and climate suitability change predictions for major cassava growing regions of India under two representative concentration pathways. J trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 140-51.

Changes in suitability of crops under climate change studies are a pre-requisite to achieve sustainable utilization of available land resources and to attain food security. This study attempts ensembled multi-model prediction of change in climate and climate suitability of cassava by 2030 and 2050 in major cassava growing regions of India under 4.5 and 8.5 representative concentration pathways (RCP). Suitability of cassava was modelled using EcoCrop model in Diva GIS 7.5. Climate and suitability changes were analysed using Diva GIS 7.5 and Arc GIS 10.1. The study showed a general warming of climate over the major cassava growing regions by 2030 and 2050 under RCPs 4.5 and 8.5. The mean temperature of major cassava growing regions in 2030 will increase by 1.18 - 1.55⁰C and 1.29 - 1.49⁰C for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5; and1.62 - 1.78⁰C and 2.03 - 2.28⁰C for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5 in 2050. The precipitation in 2030 will increase by13.57 - 92.40 mm and 25.27-103.70 mm for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5; and in 2050 it will change by -1.91 to 73.4mm and 5.31 to 56.60 mm for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5. The climate suitabilty will change by -1 to 8 % and -1.34to 12.02 % in 2030 for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5; and -1.27 to 11.67% and -3.76 to 6.59% for RCPs 4.5 and 8.5 in2050. Districts in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh showing highest positive and negative impacts on climate suitability of cassava for RCP 4.5 and RCP 8.5 in 2030 and 2050 were identified. Districtsshowing no negative impact were also predicted. The results showed cassava’s comparative advantage in climate resilence compared to other major food crops such as rice and wheat.

6 illus, 5 tables, 31 ref

039668   IHEMEZIE E J, ONUNKA C N, UMARU I I (Nigeria Univ, Nsukka - 410 002, Nigeria, Email: cynthia.onunka@unn.edu.ng) : The implication of agricultural land-use change on food security in benue state, Nigeria. J trop Agric 2020, 57(2), 105-13.

This study employed geo-physical Land Use Land Cover (LULC) satellite data and crop yield data to examine the trend of agricultural land-use change and how it affected food security in the Nigerian state of Benue. Satellite imageries were downloaded for the years 1980, 1990, 2000, 2010, and 2015 from theUnited States Geological Survey (USGS) website, while crop yield data from 1980 to 2015 were obtained from the Benue State Ministry of Agriculture. Satellite image datasets were analyzed using remote sensing and GIS techniques, and data extracted for a quantitative analysis while crop yield data and data on percentage changes in cropland/vegetation were analyzed using regression analysis. The results of the study showed that the trend of agricultural land-use change in Benue state, Nigeria is tending towards reduction in agricultural lands. While this negative trend was found to reduce the output of some crops (e.g. yam, maize and groundnut), it seemed to have also spurred an increase in the production of other crops with more economic value (e.g. rice and cassava) due to intensification. The study recommends that appropriate land use policies should be put in place to prevent unguarded loss of agricultural lands so as to forestall looming food security crisis.

3 illus, 2 tables, 35 ref

039660   LAKRA K (Agronomy Dep, Narender Dev Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj - 224 229, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: kairovinlakra659@gmail.com) : Effect of land configuration, level of irrigation and nitrogen on the performance of Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis) under saline soil conditions. Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 237 - 41.

A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of land configuration, irrigation and nitrogen application on the performance of Japanese mint under saline soil conditions at, Faizabad during summer (Zaid) season of 2016-17. Raised bed planting recorded higher herbage (17957 kg/ha) and dry biomass yield (4843 kg/ha), maximum P content (0.36 %), and N (78.9 kg/ha), P (17.4 kg/ha) and K (77.4 kg/ha) uptake. However, increase in N (1.65 %) and K (1.62 %) content and available N (132.8 kg/ha), P (16.3 kg/ha) and K (224.2 kg/ha) in soil were recorded under flat planting. Irrigation at 1.2 IW/CPE ratio significantly enhanced herbage (17117 kg/ha) and dry biomass yield (4828 kg/ha), maximum P content (0.37 %) and the uptake of N (78.7 kg/ha), P (17.9 kg/ha) and K (77.1 kg/ha) by crop. Whereas irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE ratio recorded maximum N (1.65 %) and K (1.62 %) content and available N (133.9 kg/ha), P (16.6 kg/ha) and K (243.8 kg/ha) in soil. Application of 125 % RDN recorded maximum herbage (17124 kg/ha) and dry biomass yield (4804 kg/ha) with highest N (77.8 kg/ha), P (16.3 kg/ha) and K uptake (76.3 kg/ha) and their availability in soil followed by RDN, but the content of N (1.63 %), P (0.35 %) and K (1.60 %) in plant was the highest with 75 % RDN. Raised bed planting of Japanese mint irrigating at 1.2 IW/CEP ratio and the application of 160 kg N/ha (RDN) is better for yield, nutrient uptake and available nutrients in saline soil.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

039659   IMMANUEL R, R, PREETHI K, RAO G B S, THIRUPPATHI M (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, Email: rrximmanuel@gmail.com) : Yield response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) to phosphate enriched animal manures and foliar fertilization of micronutrients. Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 230 - 6.

Intensively managed agroecosystem soils are generally become deficient to soil macro and micronutrients. It can be supplemented through frequent soil application, although, scarcity of soil moisture makes the nutrients unavailable for crops. Nutrient enriched manure applications coupled with foliar fertilization of micronutrients such as Zinc and Boron in nutrient deficit soils may be crucial for better crop growth and yield. Therefore, this study was conducted during the kharif season of 2017-18 at Farmers’ Field at Western agro-climatic zone of Tamil Nadu, India to investigate the role of enticed organic manures and micronutrients Zn and B foliar application on yield and benefit-cost ratio of groundnut grown under rainfed conditions. The results revealed that application of 10 kg N, 45 kg K₂O/ha and 10 kg P₂O₅/ha as enriched sheep yard manure (ESYM) (750 kg/ha) along with foliar application of ZnSO₄ 0.5 % and borax 0.2 % at flowering and peg formation stages recorded the higher plant height (61.74 cm), leaf area index (4.76), DMP (5.59 t/ha), crop growth rate (14.35 g/m²/day), pod yield (2.18 t/ha) and oil yield (49.83 %). The higher return/rupee invested (Rs. 2.66/-) was also obtained from the same treatment and can be recommended for augment the productivity of groundnut in rainfed agroecosystem.

3 tables, 26 ref

039658   SATHE P S, ADIVAREKAR R V, PANDIT A B (Chemical Engineering Dep, Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai - 400 019, Email: ab.pandit@ictmumbai.edu.in, dr.pandit@gmail.com) : Study on valorization of coconut (Cocos nucifera) husk into biochar for soil amendment and its effect on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor). Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 215 - 29.

Biochar is one of the significant soil amendments. A lot of research has already done in the field of biochar. But very few studies have mentioned the effect of pyrolysis temperature on the plant growth. To the best of our knowledge we have not yet come across any systematic study elaborating the effect of various pyrolysis temperature of coconut husk biochar on seed germination and plant growth. Therefore, the experiment was conducted during 2019 to 20 at Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai, India to explore the effect of coconut husk biochar produced at various pyrolysis temperatures (300, 400, 500 and 600°C) individually and along with the nitrogen fertilizer (urea) on the growth of sorghum. Maximum biochar yield of 54.67 % was obtained at 300°C. The ash content, pH, and EC (electrical conductivity) of biochar significantly increased with increasing pyrolysis temperature, maximum ash content (31.4 %), pH (9.9) and EC (2.48 mS/cm) were observed at 600°C pyrolysis temperature. Bulk density and nitrogen concentration of biochar reduced with increasing pyrolysis temperature. Highest nitrogen concentration of 0.62 % was detected in biochar produced at 300°C. Surface area of the biochar increased with an increase in the pyrolysis temperature giving a surface area of 213.91 m2/g at 600 °C pyrolysis temperature. The germination percentage was adversely affected by the use of biochar and nitrogen fertilizer combination treatment. Maximum shoot and root biomass of sorghum were obtained with the use of biochar produced at 300°C. Similarly, plant height, leaf area and stem diameter were significantly high in the treatment containing biochar obtained at 300°C pyrolysis temperature. Nevertheless, combining biochar and nitrogen fertilizer had no synergic and summative effect on sorghum growth. The findings of the present study thus demonstrate that biochar obtained at low pyrolysis temperature can be a practical approach to enhance crop biomass growth and possibly yield.

6 illus, 8 tables, 36 ref

039657   IMMANUEL R, R, MULLAIVENDHAN V, THIRUPPATHI M, RAO G B S (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Tamil Nadu, Email: rrximmanuel@gmail.com) : Influence of nutrient management practices for relay cropped maize (Zea mays). Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 208 - 14.

Plant nutrition is one of the important factors that manipulate the growth and yield of maize crop. It will be suboptimal when the bio-available soil pools of these nutrients are insufficient. Therefore, along with chemical fertilizers the crop plants are also vastly dependent on root-associated microbes and foliar applied liquid manures to enhance nutrient availability. This field experiment was conducted during 2018 at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Annamalainagar, Chidambaram, Tamil Nadu, India to find out the effect of integrated nutrient management practices for maximizing the yield of maize under relay cropping system. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications. A total of thirteen treatments comprised of three doses of fertilizer i.e., 100, 75 and 50 % in combination with and without seed treatment of microbial consortium and foliar application of panchagavya @ 3 % at knee high and pre-tasseling stages along with absolute control. The maximum growth characters, yield attributes and yield, were registered with integrated application of 100% RDF along with seed treatment with microbial consortium and foliar application of panchagavya at knee high and pretasseling stages. However, based on the economic benefits, it can be concluded that integrated application of 75 % RDF (187.50: 56.25: 56.25 kg/ha N, P₂O₅ and K₂O, respectively), seed treatment with microbial consortium (20 mL/kg) and foliar application of panchagavya @ 3% at knee high and pre-tasseling stages is economically feasible agrotechnology as it provides better returns to the small and marginal maize growing farmers under relay cropping system in Cauvery Deltaic region of Coastal Tamil Nadu, India.

1 table, 32 ref

039656   B S R G, BALACHANDRAKAUMAR V, IMMANUEL R R, NAMBI J RAJ T S (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Email: Bhanuraman09@gmail.com) : Influence of zinc and iron fortified micronutrients on the growth, yield and economics of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 202 - 7.

Productivity of rice can be improved application of zinc and iron fortified micronutrients for which different levels, sources, and applications are yet to be optimized. Therefore, field experiments were conducted during 2018 and 2019 at Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu, India. The experiments were laid out in randomized block design replicated thrice with thirteen treatments with various combinations of zinc and iron fertilizers. The results revealed that growth and yield attributes of rice viz., plant height, leaf area index, dry matter production, productive tillers per square meter, number of grains per panicle, test weight and the grain yield (6.08 t/ha) were recorded significantly higher in the soil application of ZnSO₄ @25 kg/ha + FeSO₄ @30 kg/ha + foliar application of Zn EDTA @1 % + Fe EDTA @ 1 %. Higher net benefit of Rs. 52,228/ha with a benefit cost ratio of 2.13 were recorded in the soil application treatment of ZnSO₄ @25 kg/ha + soil application of FeSO₄ @30 kg/ha.

3 tables, 33 ref

039655   ANUSHA P L, UMAMAHESH V, RAO P V R, RAO G R, RAO M S (Crop Physiology Dep, S. V. Agricultural Coll, Tirupati - 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, Email: loraanu55@gmail.com) : Physiological and biochemical characterization of rice (Oryza sativa) genotypes suitable for dry direct sowing condition. Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 189 - 201.

Cultivation of rice under dry direct sown condition is a viable alternative to reduce the pressure on natural resources, more importantly on available fresh water sources. Moisture stress and intense weed competition are the major limitations under this system for which early seedling vigour is a desirable trait to counter this problem. Laboratory and field experiments were conducted during 2015-16 at S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh, India, with 36 aerobic rice genotypes to understand the physiological and biochemical basis for early vigour. High and low vigour genotypes were categorized based on seedling vigour index under polyethylene glycol (PEG) induced moisture stress at -5 and -10 bars. The biochemical basis for high seedling vigour index (SVI) was studied to explore the role of α-amylase in rapid conversion of starch into reducing sugars in high vigour genotypes. Laboratory findings were confirmed in the field experiment where in early vigour genotypes (NLR-33671, NLR-3042, NLR-4002, NLR-40024, MTU-7029, MTU-1010, JGL- 20171 and JGL-11727) showed high crop growth rate in pre-anthesis period of crop growth. The influence of early vegetative biomass was also reflected on number of tillers and number of productive tillers in high vigorous genotypes compared to low vigorous genotypes (MTU- 1075 and MTU-1112).

6 illus, 3 tables, 39 ref

039654   SINGH S, SINGH K (Agriculture Dep, Khalsa Coll, Amritsar, Punjab -143 001, Email: simranbhinder007@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and yield of basmati rice (Oryza sativa) through use of different organic manures and crop residues. Crop Res 2020, 55(5 & 6), 183-8.

The present investigation was carried out during the kharif season of 2018-2019 at the Student’s Research Farm, Khalsa College, Amritsar to evaluate the effect of integrated nutrient approach on growth and yield of basmati rice. The experiment was laid out in Randomised Block Design (RBD) with three replications each having different combinations of nitrogen i.e. Recommended nitrogen (RN), Farm yard manure (FYM), Press mud (PM) , Berseem residue (BR) and Mustard residue (MR). The results revealed that the application of 100 % RN led to more growth and yield contributing characters which increased grain yield by 70.18 % over control, followed by 75 % RN + 25 % BR which produced 0.89 q/ha less yield than 100 % RN that was equivalent to Rs. 2848/- but also saved 25 % RN (or 22.5 kg urea). Thus, up to 25 % recommended nitrogen can be substituted by berseem residue without significantly affecting the grain yield which is a major key concern for sustainable agriculture.

3 tables, 19 ref

039646   CHENG K, PENG B, YUAN F (Huazhong Agricultural Univ, China, Email: fyuan@mail.hzau.edu.cn) : Volatile composition of eight blueberry cultivars and their relationship with sensory attributes. Flavour Fragrance J 2020, 35(4), 443-53.

The volatile compositions of eight blueberry cultivars (‘Premier’, ‘Gardenblue’, ‘Legacy’, ‘Brigitta’, ‘Misty’, ‘O’Neal’, ‘Bluerain’ and ‘Northland’) grown in the middle region of China were investigated. Volatiles were extracted by headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) and analysed by gas chromatography—quadrupole time of flight—mass spectrometry (SPME-GC-QTOF-MS). A total of 28 volatiles were identified and quantified, including 5 esters, 11 terpenoids, 3 aldehydes, 6 alcohols and 3 volatile phenols. Different blueberry cultivars had distinct varietal volatile profiles. Rabbiteye cultivars, ‘Premier’ and ‘Gardenblue’, were characterized by a large amount of esters, especially for ethyl acetate. ‘Misty’ had the highest terpenoid content. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares regression (PLS) were selected to correlate the chemical data with sensory perceptions. PCA showed that esters were dominant in rabbiteye blueberries, especially for ethyl acetate. No distinct pattern of volatile profile was found for the highbush and half-highbush blueberry cultivars. PLS showed that the grassy descriptor was positively correlated with linalool and hexanal. The minty descriptor was positively correlated with eucalyptol.

5 illus, 3 tables, 38 ref