006180   SAHOO S, DASH S, ANOOP E V (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur-680 656, Email: subhashreedash22@gmail.com) : Value addition of fast- grown plantation timber through wood modification. J Appl Zool Res 2019, 30(1), 33- 42.

The increasing demand of timber and timber products has resulted in diminishing availability of tropical hardwoods from natural forests. Therefore, there is renewed interest in plantation grown timbers. However, plantation wood has limitations like bio-degradability, and lower durability gives an inferior product compared to virgin forest timber product. Wood modification can help to overcome these constraints by increasing the durability of wood and also making it environment friendly. The most extensively studied chemical modification and impregnation modification are acetylation and furfurylation, respectively. Furfurylation caused considerable color changes in wood samples (Populus tomentosa Carr., Cunninghamia lanceolata, Eucalyptus robusta Smith., and Pinus massoniana) rather than acetylation (DONG et al., 2016). In the production scenario there has been a tremendous improvement in thermally modified wood from 2001 to 2015 worldwide (International Thermowood Association, 2015). The industry can help in successful production and distribution of modified wood worldwide. Researchers focusing on standardization of the catalyst in modification processes for better wood performance. If these challenges are tackled then wood modification can add value to fast-grown plantation timber which will be comparable to tropical hardwoods in all the properties.

4 illus, 4 tables, 24 ref

006128   KPINKOUN J K, ZANKLAN S A, KOMLAN F A, MENSAH A C G, MONTCHO D, GANDONOU E K C B (Laboratoire de Physiologie Végétale et d’Etude des Stress Environnemen, Cotonou, République du Bénin, Email: ganchrist@hotmail.com) : Évaluation de la résistance à la salinité au stade jeune plant de quelques cultivars de piment (Capsicum spp.) du Benin. J Appl Biosci 2019, 133, 13561-73.

Salinity is an abiotic factor that negatively influences the physiology of plants. This study aims to evaluate the effect of different concentrations of Sodium chloride (NaCl) on plant growth of five cultivars of chili (Adologbo, Gbatakin, TPS 0251 Gbatakin d’Agbédranfo, and Démon) grown in Benin to determine their relative level of resistance to salt stress. Five NaCl concentrations from 0 to 120 mM were applied for two weeks on the three weeks old plants in a fully randomized four-repeat device. The results indicate)d that the salt effect resulted in a reduction of the different growth parameters (like plant height, shoot fresh and dry masses, leaf number, root length, root fresh and dry masses) studied with a significant difference between cultivars. The reductions observed were less pronounced in cultivar Gbatakin whereas they were more pronounced in TPS 0251 and Adologbo. The highest salt tolerance index was observed in Gbatakin and the lowest in Adologbo and TPS 0251. Salt stress reduced the growth of the five chilli cultivars evaluated regardless of the growth parameter taken into account. The cultivar Gbatakin maintained better growth in the presence of NaCl with the highest salt tolerance index and thus appears to be the most resistant of the five cultivars tested, while Adologbo and TPS 0251 which showed the lowest growth under salt stress with the lowest salt tolerance indexes are the most sensitive. From these results, cultivar Gbatakin can be recommended to growers in coastal or salinity-affected areas while producers in other areas can produce all chilli cultivars.

8 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

006091   BALLO K E, SOUMAHIN F E, ESSEHI J L, KOUADIO J Y, OBOUAYEBA S (Jean Lorougnon Guede Univ, Daloa, Côte d’Ivoire, Email: esperenceballo@gmail.com) : Effect of design and planting density on the agrophysiological parameters of clone GT 1 Hevea brasiliensis Muell Arg in southwestern Cote d'Ivoire. J Appl Biosci 2019, 133, 13532-41.

The design and planting density can influence certain agronomic parameters. To enable Hevea brasiliensis clone GT1 to better express their agrophysiological potentialities and sensitivity to the tapping panel dryness a study, of the design and planting density was undertaken at the SCASO experimental site in southwestern of Ivory Coast. The experimental design applied, split-plot of three treatments (designs in lines separated from 6 or 7 m and staggered) and three sub-treatments (350; 510 and 650 trees/ha) with four repetitions, was installed on 12, 22 ha. Only one latex collection system was applied (S/2 d/4 6d/7 ET 2.5 % Pa 1 (1) 6/y). The parameters measured were rubber production, circumference increase, physiological profile and tapping panel dryness sensitivity. The rate of trees present in the plots was good (87.27 %) and have not varied with the design and planting density. Vegetative growth tapping (2.69 cm.year^-1), and mean yield (1926 kg.ha^-1.year^-1) were influenced by density unlike design. Despite good productivity, the physiological state of the rubber trees was good, characterized by a well-balanced physiological profile and a low tapping panel dryness rate (2.73 %), independently of design and planting density. The density and the suitable planting design were planting in separate rows of 6 m / 650 t/ha.

1 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

006159   OUMAR K, BLAISE O, ISSA S (Zoology Dep, Environnement et de recherches Agricoles Institute, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, Email: oumarkabore@hotmail.com) : Facteurs de fragmentation et stratégies de gestion des massifs forestiers au Burkina Faso. J Appl Biosci 2019, 133, 13516-31.

Forest areas are subject to various pressures due to the combination of economic, political and demographic factors. Their degradation is a major concern for environment preservation. The actual research is to contribute for a better management of forest entities. It integrates both data collection, satellite image processing, as well as climate, demographic, socio-economic, and legal data analysis. The results shows out the distribution of land cover units and forests degradation, marked by a large cultivated areas and differents levels of fragmentation. Average sizes of tasks are ranged between 4.35 and 78, 15 ha, caused by high population densities which reach 99.11 hbts / km² in some places, as well as agricultural and pastoral practices. The vegetation types are influenced by average rainfall between 624.39 and 918.79 mm / year. Management methods used actually does not yet completely exclude human influence on the forests. There is still necessity to strengthen stratégies to preserve forest resources through area arrangements, local communities participation and greater respect for laws and regulations.

9 illus, 6 tables, 26 ref

006115   HOUNDÉDJI, BOKONON-GANTA D C, ZANDJANAKOU-TACHIN H A, AFFOKPON M, ANTOINE J (Abomey-Calav Univ, Jericho- 2819, Email: aimehbg@gmail.com) : Farmers’ perceptions on the pineapple mealybug [Dysmicoccus brevipes (Cockerell) (Homoptera: Pseudococcidae)] and control methods in Benin. J Appl Biosci 2019, 133, 13475-86.

This study aimed at evaluating the perceptions of farmers on the pineapple mealybug, the different control methods adopted against the pest and the socio-cultural factors that influence these perceptions. A survey was conducted among 180 pineapple producers using a semistructured questionnaire in five main pineapple production areas in Benin. Binomial regression and Factorial Correspondence Analysis (FCA) were performed to determine the sociocultural factors that influence farmers’ knowledge on the pineapple mealybug. Fifty eight percent of farmers perceived mealybug as pineapple insect pest while 22.22% reported the insect as the MWP disease vector. Experience in Pineapple production and participation in training determined the knowledge of farmers on the mealybug as important pineapple insect pest and as MWP disease vectors. Only trained farmers used to apply control methods. This study shows that it is the trained producers who have a better knowledge of the mealybug and adopt some control methods. It is therefore an emergency that training seminars be organized for a large number of producers followed by supervision in sight of making them qualified to better control the proliferation of mealybug and limit the spread of wilt disease.

5 illus, 3 tables, 22 ref

006136   LOUHAR G (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi- 110 012, Email: loharganpat95@gmail.com) : Growth and yield attributes of wheat crop in response to application of micronutrients: A review. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(4), 823-9.

Wheat is one of the most important cereal crop and staple foods in the world. Increase in productivity of wheat by balance nutrient management is one of the most crucial factors. The main objective this study is to assessing the role of micronutrients in improving different components of wheat yield. There are different methods of application such as seed priming, soil application and fortification but foliar application is more beneficial. This is due to response of foliar application has positive and quadrate in nature i.e.the optimum dose of foliar application of zinc for grain yield of wheat was observed as 0.04%. Among treatments of micronutrient alone or combined forms give better results over control. Results have show that micronutrient application substantially improved leaf area index (LAI), leaf area duration, CGR (Crop growth rate), RGR (Relative growth rate), NAR (Net assimilation rate), plant height, spike length, spikelets/spike, grains/spike, test weight, tillers m^-2, grain yield, chlorophyll content and biological yield as well as harvest index of wheat. The yield and quality of wheat products improved and boosted by micronutrient applications. Therefore, human and animal health will be protected with the feed of en-riched and balanced nutrition of produce as well as it will help in facing the severe global food security.

61 ref

006121   KARPAGAM C, SELVAM M K, MOOVENTHAN P (Central Institute for Cotton Research, Coimbatore– 641 003, Email: karpsicar@gmail.com) : Technology mapping and adoption behaviour for sugarcane protection technologies by Dharmapuri District sugarcane growers. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(4), 806-9.

Sugarcane is the second most important industrial crop in the country occupying about 5 million hectares of area with the production of 376.9 mt.  Although more than 40% of the cane area in the country is in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu ranks first in productivity of sugarcane. Even though Tamil Nadu is in higher productivity zone, the average farm level potential yield was very less which leads lot of scope for increasing production in Tamil Nadu. Sugarcane farmers from Tamil Nadu ranged from small to large. All the farmers not following all the recommended practices. Hence, a study is required to analyses the predominant technologies in the particular area and adoption behavior of the farmers to bridge the technological gap. With that idea in mind, a study has been taken up with the objectives that to document the technological mapping and to study the adoption behavior of sugarcane farmers at Subaramani Siva Co-operative Sugar Mill area in Dharmapui district of Tamil Nadu state. From Dharmapuri districts seven blocks were selected. From each block ten respondents were selected; thus 70 respondents were constituted for the study. The study revealed that all the blocks are not similar in case of technologies, the predominant technologies are differing block to block. Adoption pattern for protection technologies revealed that integrated weed management  was  adopted  by  majority  of  the respondent. The  technologies ‘pheromone trap’ and ‘soil trenching' of recommended termiticides’ are not at all adopted by the respondents in the study area. 

2 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

006086   ADITYA, SHARMA N, SHEHRAWAT P S (Extension Education Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: nidhisharma1260@gmail.com) : Judging causes of soil degradation and remedial measures for reclamation in Kaithal district of Haryana State. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(4), 802-5.

Soil degradation is a point of evolution which leads to a reduction of resource potential. About  7.40  m  ha  arable  lands  globally  turn  to  degraded  lands  as  a  result  of  climate change and deforestation. The problem of soil degradation has been ever since cultivation of soils started because of increasing population of India at the rate of about 1.8 % requiring marginal areas to be brought under the plough to meet the growing food demand. The present study was conducted in Kaithal district in the year 2018-19. The study revealed that "Excessive use of chemical fertilizers‟ (88.33 %) followed by "non-judicious use of insecticides/pesticides‟ (85.83 %), "less application of organic manure‟ (85.00 %), "deforestation (78.33 %), and "over uplifting of ground water‟ (75.83 %) were found as most important causes of soil degradation. The most important remedial action for problematic soil were found as "land for equal distribution of resources/irrigation‟ (90.83 %) followed by "application  of  Gypsum  for  sodic  and  saline  soil" (85.83 %),  "introduction  of  legumes  in cropping  system‟  (80.00 %),  "recharge  of  ground  water  during  rainy  season‟  (78.33 %), "crop residue incorporation by happy seeder‟ (77.50 %), "application of green manuring/ organic manure‟ (75.00 %) and "leaching of salts in saline soil‟ (72.50 %). Soil conservation is important for the future use and future generation. The study would be helpful in soils conservation  which  may  otherwise  cause  damage  to  plant  growth  which  in  turn  may adversely affect yield and there by food security also.

2 tables, 11 ref

006165   PATIL V, REDDY B S, PATIL S S, HIREMATH G M (Agricultural Economics Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur- 584 104, Email: vinayakagmaco@gmail.com) : Comparative economics of rural and periurban dairy farming in Kalaburagi district of Karnataka. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(4), 762 -7.

Cost of milk production is an important economic indicator in assessing the farm household efficiency in milk production as well as basis for price fixation. The study was undertaken to analyse the cost and returns of milk production in rural and periurban dairy farms of Kalaburagi district of Karnataka. The per day maintenance cost in periurban dairy farms (₹ 150.64) was highest compared to rural dairy farms (₹ 91.29)for local cows, crossbred cows and buffaloes. Among total maintenance costs of periurban dairy farming, feed and fodder costs accounted major share (73.49%) followed by labour cost (15.53%) and total fixed cost (7.73%). The return per litre of milk was highest (₹ 8.91) for crossbred cows followed by buffalo (₹ 4.82) and local cows (₹ 0.14). The net return from crossbred cow was more than that of buffalo and local cows indicating higher profitability in rearing crossbred cow in the study area.

4 tables, 9 ref

006205   SULTANA S, THAKURIA D, HANDIQUE P J (Central Agricultural Univ, Umiam- 793 103, Email: thakuria.dwipendra@yahoo.co.in) : Functional attributes and antagonism of root-associated bacteria of different rice cultivars from acid soil. J Biol Engg Res Rev 2019, 6(2), 5-18.

This study evaluated root endophyte bacteria and rhizobacteria in terms of multifaceted plant growth promotion (PGP) traits and antagonistic potential against major fungal pathogens of rice (viz. Rhizoctonia solani, Bipolaris oryzae, Pyricularia oryzae, Ustilaginoidea virens and Sarocladium oryzae). Twenty bacterial isolates from each group (viz. endorhiza and rhizosphere) were isolated from different rice types of North East India. Cultivated rice types were Upland rice (Mima, Kochi and Minil), Lowland HYV rice (Ranjit and Jaya) and Lowland scented rice (Keteki Joha and Kunkuni Joha). The population of rhizospheric bacteria was higher than the endophyte isolates. The population counts of endophyte bacteria were the highest in scented rice cultivar (Kunkuni Joha) and for rhizobacterial isolates; the population density was maximum in the lowland HYV rice (Jaya). The endophytes were more efficient than the rhizobacteria in terms of the activity of cellulase, pectinase, ACC-deaminase, production of IAA- like substances, solubilization of zinc and mineralization of organic phosphates. In contrast, the rhizobacterial isolates were more efficient in solubilization of inorganic phosphates and antagonism against major rice fungal pathogens. Through 16S rDNA sequence analysis, the promising rhizobacterial isolates showing antagonism against all the fungal pathogens were identified as Brevibacillus reuszeri 12R, Lysinibacillus xylanticus 48R, Bacillus megaterium 58R and Serratia marcescens 79R. These results suggest that the root bacterial endophytes and rhizobacteria characterized in this study could be successfully used to promote plant growth and induce fungal resistance in rice plants and can be used as bioinoculants for enhancing rice growth in the acid soil regions.

5 tables, 97 ref

006127   KOUADIO E P L, KOUMI A R, GONNETY T J, ATSE B C, KOUAME L P (Aquaculture Dep, Centre de Recherches Oceanologiques, Abidjan, Cote dIvoire, Email: koumirachel@yahoo.fr) : Comparative study of three locally available feeds on the growth and nutritional quality of Oreochromis niloticus juveniles. J Appl Biol Biotechnol 2019, 7(5), 83-91.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of three feeds formulated for three fish farming agroecological areas of Côte d’Ivoire on the growth and nutritional quality of Oreochromis niloticus juveniles. Feeds were formulated at 30 % crude protein with locally-sourced raw materials available by area. The use of different ingredients at different levels for feeds formulation made variations in the nutritional compositions and costs of the three feeds produced. The average male weight of O. niloticus juveniles, 26.89 ± 2.98–27.35 ± 2.74 g, was stocked at a density of 3 fish/m² and was hand fed at 5 %–3 % body weight two times daily, 6 days per week during 120 days in the triplicate earthen ponds. At the end of the feeding trial, daily weight gain values varied between 1.12 ± 0.08 g/day and 1.21 ± 0.06 g/day and survival rate ranged between 99.44 ± 0.00 and 100 %. No significant difference (p < 0.05) was observed in the growth performance and feed efficiency parameters of juveniles O. niloticus feeding. An increase in crude lipid and gross energy was observed in whole body compositions of O. niloticus feeding with the highest dietary lipid levels. Low-cost locally adapted feeds produced for O. niloticus juveniles growth were competitive and proffer the opportunity to improve availability of local quality feeds in the fish farming areas of Côte d’Ivoire.

2 illus, 8 tables, 51 ref

006087   AIN N U, AIN Q U, JAVERIA S, ASHIQ S, ASHIQ K, AKHTAR M S (Food Science and Technology Dep, Gomal Univ, Dera Ismail Khan, Pakistan, Email: kanwal.ashiq@superior.edu.pk) : Effect of different industrial and domestic effluents on growth, yield, and heavy metal accumulation in Turnip (Brassica rapa L.). J Appl Biol Biotechnol 2019, 7(5), 35-40.

In the suburbs of big cities, the vegetables are commonly irrigated with effluents due to paucity of good quality water. These effluents are loaded with toxic or heavy metals which may cause environmental or health hazard. The present study was performed in pot experiments to investigate the impacts of different effluents on the growth, yield, and heavy metals concentration of turnip (Brassica rapa). Pots were arranged in a completely randomized design with six treatments replicated four times. The treatments included 10 % effluents of sugar mill, sewage water, soap factory, ghee mill, slaughterhouse, and control. Data on the weight of root plant⁻¹ (g), root length, root diameter, yield ha⁻¹, and heavy metals (Fe, Pb, Zn, Ni, and Cd) concentrations in roots were recorded and analyzed statistically. Results revealed that higher yield and related traits were recorded with sewage water followed by slaughterhouse wastage and sugar mill effluent. Application of sewage water enhanced 11.2 % yield while the increment with slaughterhouse wastage and sugar mill effluent was 7.8 % and 2.3 %, respectively. Heavy metal concentrations were increased with all types of effluents. The transfer factors showed that accumulation of metals was in the order of Pb > Cd > Zn > Fe > Ni.

5 tables, 26 ref

006191   SINGH A K, MALL A K, SINGH P K (ICAR- Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow- 226 002, Email: ashutosh.mall@icar.gov.in) : Genetic study for epistatic gene effects for major yield contributing traits against drought in rice. J Appl Nat Sci 2019, 11(4), 755 -61.

The study subjected to estimate gene effects and inheritance of quantitative traits of rice with Generation Mean Analysis (GMA). Segregation analysis and estimation of genetic parameters under epistatic model indicated partial dominance and importance of additive effects in the inheritance of drought tolerance, respectively. In present study, absence of epistasis by scaling tests was recorded only for plant height in cross NDR-359 x P0 1564, grains per panicle in cross DSL-63-8 x NDR-359, test weight in cross Sarjoo-52 x P0 359, harvest-index in cross NDR-359 x P0 1564 and spikelets per panicle in cross Sarjoo-52 x P0 359 and NDR-359 x P0 1564 in irrigated condition and days to 50 per cent flow-ering in cross P0 359 x Sonam and harvest-index in cross NDR-359 x P0 1564 in drought condition. In remaining cases, existence of epistasis was observed in either one or both conditions by one or both types of scaling tests. The presence of complementary epista-sis in cross P0 359 x Sonam and P0 1564 x Sarjoo-52 would make progress through selection procedures exploiting additive gene actions faster while existence of duplicate epistasis in cross NDR-359 x P0 1564 would have reverse impact. The non-additive gene effects in NDR-359 x P0 1564 for grain yield plant^-1may also be utilized for facilitating development  of  pureline  cultivars  by  involving  population  improvement  methods.  Our study concluded that for a large number of traits in six crosses, dominance gene effects and epistatic interactions were significant under drought and irrigated conditions implying that utilization of heterosis through hybrid varieties will act as a budding choice.

3 tables, 18 ref

006100   DADHICH R, DHURIA R K, JAIN D, NEHRA R, SHARMA T (Animal Nutrition Dep, Rajasthan Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001, Email: omhringom@gmail.com) : Effect of feeding of hydroponics maize fodder on nutrient utilisation efficiency in Rathi calves. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 291-4.

Twenty male Rathi calves of similar age (6 - 12 month) and average body weight (96 kg) were distributed in five groups of four each in order to study the effect of feeding hydroponics maize fodder on intake, nutrient digestibility, digestible nutrient component and weight gain. The feeding trial was conducted for 30 days followed by 7 days of digestibility trial. The animals in group T₁ (control) were fed 1.5 kg concentrate mixture (CP 20 %). In group T₂ , 75 % of CP requirement was met through concentrate mixture (1.125 kg) and rest through hydroponic maize fodder (2.63 kg). Whereas, in group T₃ , 50 % of CP was met through 0.75 kg concentrate mixture and rest through 5.27 kg hydroponic maize fodder, while in group T₄ , 25 % of CP was met through concentrate mixture (0.375 kg) and remaining by hydroponic maize fodder (7.9 kg). In T₅ group CP requirement was met through 10.54 kg hydroponic maize fodder. In addition, all the animals were offered ad lib. wheat straw along with 2.5 kg groundnut straw. The dry matter Intake (kg/100 kg b. wt.) was found to decrease significantly (P<0.05) in groups T₂ , T₃ , T₄ , T₅ in comparison to control T₁ (3.27). Digestibility of DM, OM, CP, CF, NFE and ADF increased significantly (P<0.05) for calves fed with hydroponics maize fodder whereas no significant effect was observed in digestibility of EE, NDF and HC. The DCP and TDN content were found to be increased significantly (P<0.05) in groups fed with hydroponics maize fodder. The digestible dry matter intake (kg/100 kg b.wt) was found to be similar in all the groups whereas digestible organic matter intake (kg/100 kg b.wt) was found to be increased significantly (P<0.01) in groups fed with hydroponics maize fodder. The digestible crude protein intake (kg/100 kg b.wt) and total digestible nutrient intake (kg/100 kg b.wt) were found to be increased significantly (P<0.01) in calves fed with hydroponics maize fodder. It can be thus inferred that feeding of hydroponics maize fodder in Rathi calves increased the digestibility of nutrients.

5 tables, 22 ref

006169   PRAJAPAT U K, JAIN D, SHARMA T, DHURIA R K, BOTHRA T, NEHRA R, KUMAR M, KUMAR S, SIYAG S S (Animal Nutrition Dep, Rajasthan Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001, Email: umeshkumarprajapat@gmail.com) : Effect of dietary supplementation of tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaf powder and fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graceum L.) seed powder on performance index, dry matter digestibility and n-balance of heat stressed broilers in arid zone. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 285-7.

An experimental trial was conducted to assess the effect of dietary supplementation of Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) leaf powder and Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) seed powder as herbal feed additives on performance index, dry matter digestibility and N-balance of heat stressed broilers in arid zone of Rajasthan. A total of 210 one day old broiler chicks of Cobb-400 strain were divided into seven treatment groups with three replicates of 10 chicks in each replicate using completely randomized design. The control group (C) was fed on basal diet without any supplementation and other six treatment groups were supplemented with 0.5 % Tulsi leaf powder, 1 % T₂ F₂ groups, respectively. Statistical analysis of data revealed highly significant (P<0.01) effect of Tulsi and Fenugreek supplementation alone or in combination on overall performance index, dry matter digestibility, nitrogen intake and nitrogen voided. Overall nitrogen balance was significantly (P<0.05) higher in the Tulsi and Fenugreek supplemented groups compared to control group. On the basis of results obtained in the study, it could be concluded that in high ambient temperature in heat stressed broilers, inclusion of Tulsi leaf powder alone at 0.5 % level, Fenugreek seed powder alone at 0.5 % level and combination of both i.e. Tulsi leaf powder and Fenugreek seed powder at 0.5 % level is quite effective for overall well being of the birds.

1 table, 13 ref

006133   KUMAR V, CHAUDHARY V K, CHAUDHARY M L, GUPTA S R (Rajasthan Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001, Email: drvijaybishnoi29@gmail.com) : Effect of nutritional status and management systems on haematological and biochemical parameters of Sahiwal calves. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 279-84.

In the present study the average values of haemoglobin, packed cell volume and N: L ratio were 11.05 ± 0.060, 11.10 ± 0.054, 11.08 ± 0.050 and 11.06 ± 0.064 gm/dl and 30.61 ± 0.0149, 30.55 ± 0.171, 30.82 ± 0.151 and 30.35 ± 0.085 and 0.900 ± 0.001, 0.901 ± 0.001, 0.902 ± 0.001and 0.900 ± 0.001, in 100 per cent ICAR feeding, 120 per cent ICAR feeding, routine management and improved management systems, respectively. The packed cell volumes was significantly (P<0.05) influenced by management systems. The average values of serum glucose and total serum protein were 41.64 ± 1.45, 42.21 ± 1.30, 41.54 ± 1.40 and 42.30 ± 1.36 mg/dl and 6.78 ± 0.039, 6.83 ± 0.048, 6.72 ± 0.026 and 6.89 ± 0.028 gm/dl in 100 per cent ICAR feeding, 120 per cent ICAR feeding, routine management and improved management systems, respectively. Total serum protein was highly significant influenced (P<0.01) by management systems. The average values of serum albumin and serum cholesterol were 2.84 ± 0.015, 2.86 ± 0.017, 2.82 ± 0.011 and 2.88 ± 0.012 mg/dl and 133.59 ± 1.819, 138.23 ± 1.505, 134.85 ± 1.987 and 136.97 ± 1.826 mg/dl in 100 per cent ICAR feeding, 120 per cent ICAR feeding, routine management and improved management systems, respectively. The serum Albumin was highly significant influenced (P<0.01) by management systems. The average values of serum creatinine and serum triglycerides were 1.01 ± 0.010, 1.04 ± 0.011, 1.02 ± 0.009 and 1.03 ± 0.014 mg/dl and 5.28 ± 0.328, 5.33 ± 0.295, 5.28 ± 0.303 and 5.33 ± 0.321 gm/dl in 100 per cent ICAR feeding, 120 per cent ICAR feeding, routine management and improved management systems, respectively. Total serum protein was highly significant influenced (P<0.01) by management systems. The average values of SGPT and SGOT were 29.69 ± 0.149, 29.85 ± 0.160, 30.00 ± 0.063 and 29.54 ± 0.162 IU/L and 83.59 ± 0.847, 83.66 ± 0.805, 84.64 ± 0.641 and 82.61± 0.738 in 100 per cent ICAR feeding, 120 per cent ICAR feeding, routine management and improved management systems, respectively. The SGPT was significantly influenced (P<0.05) by management systems.

5 tables, 32 ref

006090   BALA P A, KUNDU S S, RANI R R, DEDAR R K (ICAR- Central Island Agricultural Research Institute, Port Blair, Andman and Nicobar, Email: drprakashvet@yahoo.co.in) : A closed flux chamber experiment: Tapping the methane producing potential of equine manure in Indian condition. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 273-5.

The present project was undertaken to study the methane producing potential of horse manure under indigenous condition. For this, 60 days of feeding trial was conducted on six thoroughbred horses of average 450 kg weight and fed with gram-oats-wheat based ration with ad lib access to local grass and water. The faeces was collected and heaped in closed flux chamber in 10 and 20 kg treatment groups for collection of methane gas. The gas was collected from the air tight gasket fitted to the chamber and analyzed in GLC. The average methane produced from both the groups of manure heaps was high in the first week which reduced drastically in the second week, thereafter the average methane production reduced gradually till 7^th week. The methane production in the experiment was at par with the IPCC (1997) default value of 2 tier of horse (10 gCH₄ /day), with 20 kg manure, while 10 kg manure produced lower average methane.

1 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

006095   BOTHRA T, PATEL A K, KUMAR V, GOSWAMI S C, NARULA H K, JAIN D, KUMAR M (Livestock Production Management Dep, Rajasthan Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001) : Effect of improved nutrition and improved shelter on serum proteins of Magra lambs in two lambing seasons under arid zone. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 267-70.

The present experiment was conducted in phased manner to observe the effect of improved nutrition and improved shelter either alone or in combination on serum proteins in Magra lambs. In phase-I, fifteen days old Magra lambs (n=40) born in autumn-winter season were used for present study in a randomized block design up to the six month of age during the period from September 2016 to Feb-March 2017 (up to 5^th March) i.e. Autumn-Winter season (Season-1) at ARC-CSWRI and divided into four groups of 10 lambs in each group (T₁ -T₄ ). In Phase-II, similar experiment was followed with the lambs born in spring-summer season (Season-II) during the period from early February 2017 (from 12^th February) to early August 2017 (up to 12^th August). Groups included T₁ -Sole grazing with traditional shelter (tree shade); T₂ -improved shelter (asbestos sheet-thatched roof/with curtains) with grazing; T₃ -improved nutrition and traditional shelter and T₄ - improved nutrition and improved shelter. In groups of (T₃ -T₄ ) varying plane of nutrition was supplemented with creep mixture @ 1 % of their body weight from 15 days of age to weaning while multinutrient mixture @ 1 % of their body weight was provided from weaning up to six month of age in both seasons. There was wide variation in temperature and THI during the study period, which indicated that lambs were under thermal stress during various months of trial. Thermal stress caused alteration in mean values of serum proteins in control group (T₁ ) which might be improved due to amelioration of the negative effects of thermal stress by provision of improved nutrition and shelter.

4 illus, 18 ref

006178   RATHORE S S, RAJPUT D S, NATHAWAT P, SHARMA N K, DANGI A , GARG S, GODARA P K (Veterinary and Animal Husbandry Extension Education Dep, Rajasthan UnivI of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001, Email: siddharththedr@gmail.com) : Adoption level of livestock owners of Rajasthan in terms of toll free (1800-180-6224) expert advisory service (RTHS). Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 298-9.

Present paper highlighted the adoption level of livestock owners for the RAJUVAS toll free expert advisory services (1800-180- 6224). Respondents were selected from two districts Bikaner and Jaipur of Rajasthan state on the basis of received maximum telephonic calls during a period of six months (1 Jan to 30 June, 2017). A total 75 respondents were selected randomly from each district and constitute total 150 respondents as sample for the study. Primary data were generated by contacting the respondents via telephonic interview schedule. The results shown that majority of respondents (56.67 %) fully adopted the advices whereas, 33.33 per cent respondents did not, and remaining 10 per cent respondents adopted the advices partially. Results pertaining to query wise adoption level of advices revealed that medicinal problems based adoption level was maximum (65.34 %) followed by animal production and management related practices (60 %), gynaecological problems (58.82 %), animal feeding and nutrition problems (50 %), dairy entrepreneurial and dairy marketing related queries (44.44 %) and surgical problems (33.33 %).

2 tables, 14 ref

006195   SINGH H, GAHLOT G C, NARULA H K, PANNU U, CHOPRA A (Animal Breeding and Genetics Dep, Rajasthan Univ of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Bikaner- 334 001) : Genetic parameters for wool production and quality traits in Magra sheep. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 253-5.

Data on 2873 records of Magra sheep maintained at Arid Region Campus of Central Sheep and Wool Research Institute, Bikaner (Rajasthan) distributed over a period of 15 years (2000-2014) were analyzed for estimation of genetic parameters of wool traits. Heritability estimates for greasy fleece yield at first, second and third clip were estimated as 0.68 ± 0.08, 0.81 ± 0.10 and 0.66 ± 0.15, respectively, and for staple length, crimp frequency, fibre diameter, pure, hetro, hairy and medullated fibres were estimated as 0.52 ± 0.09, 0.20 ± 0.06, 0.18 ± 0.05, 0.41 ± 0.07, 0.33 ± 0.07, 0.53 ± 0.08 and 0.44 ± 0.08, respectively. Genetic correlations among different wool production traits ranged from 0.33 to 0.87, and that of wool quality traits ranged from -1.00 to 0.93; and phenotypic correlations ranged from - 0.01 to 0.09 and -1.00 to 0.89, respectively for wool production and wool quality traits. Moderate to high heritability estimates for most of the traits indicated the presence of high genetic variance and low environmental variance. Hence, selection may be done effectively for improvement in these traits.

3 tables, 13 ref

006208   THAKUR R, GUPTA R K, THAKUR M (Basic Sciences Dep, Y.S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan-173 230, Email: vetdrmoneesh@gmail.com) : Statistical investigation on stable lactation period of Jersey cross breed. Vet Pract 2019, 20(2), 251-2.

Data on milk yield of 4 Jersey cross cows were taken from Dairy Farm of Department of Silviculture and Agroforestry, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry Nauni- Solan, Himachal Pradesh from 1978-2014. Data were used on stability analysis of milk yield of Jersey cross cows to find out stable lactation period. Finlay and Wilkinson (1963) considered the regression coefficient as the best measure of stability. Therefore, Finlay and Wilkinson’s Model was used to identify the stable lactation period for milk yield. The interaction was found to be significant for the character. In Jersey cross cow, maximum milk yield (264.69 litres) and minimum milk yield (200.38 litres) were obtained by using Finlay and Wilkinson’s Model. Lactation fifth of Jersey cross cow has regression coefficient bi was equal to one and mean was high than overall mean. Hence, the fifth lactation period was found to be stable.

2 tables, 4 ref

006098   CHAUDHARY S, CHAKRABORTY D (Bioscience and Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali Vidyapith, Rajasthan- 304 022) : Cross inoculation with beneficial Rhizobium strain promotes plant growth in Vigna mungo. Vegetos 2019, 32(2), 223-6.

Inoculation with beneficial microorganisms facilitates plant growth and is an alternative to chemical fertilizers for sustainable agriculture. In the present study, cross inoculation of Rhizobium aegyptiacum, an osmotolarant bacterial strain enhances growth in Vigna mungo cv. T9, a widely cultivated variety. In cross inoculated T9 plants, the stem length is increased in comparison to uninoculated plants and plants inoculated with the native Bradyrhizobium sp. Both the fresh weight and dry weight of root and shoot is higher in R. aegyptiacum inoculated plants as compared to Bradyrhizobium inoculated plants. Thus, R. aegyptiacum can be successfully cross inoculated in drought susceptible agronomically desirable black gram varieties for better growth.

27 ref

006218   VIERA W, NOBOA M, MARTINEZ A, BAEZ F, JACOME R, MEDINA L, JACKSON T (Interamericano de Cooperación para la Agriculture Institute, Quito, Ecuador) : Trichoderma asperellum increases crop yield and fruit weight of blackberry (Rubus glaucus) under subtropical Andean conditions. Vegetos 2019, 32(2), 209-15.

Mora de Castilla (Rubus glaucus, Benth), also called blackberry, is grown mainly in Colombia and Ecuador. This fruit crop is of economic importance for farmers in the Province of Tungurahua (Ecuador). In this field research, the effect of Trichoderma asperellum (1.53 × 10⁹ CFU/g) inoculation was assessed on crop yield and fruit weight at three production sites (Huachi Grande, Píllaro and Tisaleo in Ecuador). Factorial experiments were conducted consisting of treatments of 0.18 g of a commercial product per plant and a second uninoculated treatment). The product was applied eight times per month and the weekly fruit harvest recorded in each of the eight applications. The inoculation of T. asperellum had a significant effect on crop yield and fruit weight: yield was greatest in Tisaleo (5350 g/plant) with T. asperellum treatment, which was increased by 17 % over the uninoculated witness (4447 g/plant). Fruit weight in Píllaro was improved from 5.36 g/fruit for the uninoculated control to 6.04 g/fruit (12.6 %). Additionally, the organic matter (OM) content was correlated with the fungal population in the soil. Tisaleo had the highest OM (4 %) and the highest yield in this study. In conclusion, the inoculation of T. asperellum in the soil positively affected crop productivity.

31 ref

006161   PANDEY G C, TIWARI R (Bioscience and Biotechnology Dep, Banasthali Vidyapith, Vanasthali, Rajasthan) : Characterization of terminal heat tolerance in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) using differences in agronomic traits as potential selection criteria. Vegetos 2019, 32(2), 200-8.

The present study was undertaken to determine effectiveness of selection for genotypes tolerant to heat stress using differences in tiller per plant (dTPP), grain weight per plant (dGWPP), grain number per plant (dGNPP), biomass per plant (dBMPP) and spike length (dSL) under the optimum and late sown field condition. A Recombinant Inbred Line (RIL) mapping population derived from the heat sensitive genotype Raj 4014 and heat tolerant genotype WH730 was evaluated for the heat stress over 2 years in a replicated trial under optimum or timely (TS) and late sown (LS) field conditions. Parents and their RILs clearly showing variation with respect to the dTPP, dGWPP, dGNPP, dBMPP and dSL. There was differential response of genotypes under LS as compared to the TS. The field data recorded under precision planting using the dibbling method was very effective in capturing the data under both conditions. Considering the two sowing condition viz., LS and TS, mean of difference in tiller per plant (dTPP) was 1.64. While for grain no. per plant (dGNPP) and grain weight per plant (dGWPP), the mean differences observed between TS and LS were 76.55 and 3.02 g respectively. Difference in spike length (dSL) was 1.09 cm and biomass per plant (dBMPP) showed difference of 8.41 g.

47 ref

006112   GEDIYA L N, PATEL D A, KUMAR S, KUMAR D, PARMAR D J, PATEL S S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand- 388 110) : Phenotypic variability, path analysis and molecular diversity analysis in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Vegetos 2019, 32(2), 167-80.

The existence and degree of genetic variability and its documentation in a gene-pool is obligatory in plant breeding. Along with variability, the comprehension of genetic parameters is indispensible for understanding and its administration during crop improvement. With this opinion, 12 phenotypic traits, one biochemical parameter and 23 microsatellite markers were used to examine the genetic variability in 58 chickpea genotypes. With immense heritability (> 60.20 %), the genotypes exhibited lavish variability for most of the traits. Secondary branches per plant, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seeds per plant, hundred seed weight, seed yield per plant and harvest index demonstrated a high PCV than GCV. Seed yield per plant illustrated a significant genotypic level association with pods per plant (0.728**), seeds per plant (0.648**), 100 seed weight (0.338**) and harvest index (0.683**). Pods per plant (0.198), seeds per plant (0.672), harvest index (0.170) and 100 seed weight (0.665) showed significant direct effect on seed yield per plant during path analysis. Manhattan distance produced seven clusters, at cut-off value of 0.15, during phenotypic based clustering. Microsatellite markers amplified 296 loci. The polymorphic information content confined between 0.32 (TR3) − 0.93 (CAM0443) with an average of 0.83. The DNA marker based clustering generated three discrete clusters. Faint correlation (0.097) was found between the Manhattan’s and Nei’s distance. The outcomes of the current experiment advocated that both phenotypic as well as DNA markers should be practiced jointly to arrest the true genetic diversity and to reap heterosis during hybridization.

65 ref

006186   SHARMA R, SEEMAWAT J N, KUMAR S (Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur- 342 003) : Detection of diverse population of vegetative propagated Kinnow planting in western India. Vegetos 2019, 32(1), 124-9.

Genetic diversity in 20 accessions of kinnow collected (five each) from four orchards viz., Central Institute of Arid Horticulture (CIAH), Bikaner, Agricultural Research Station, (ARS) Bikaner, ARS, Sriganaganagar and Regional Research Station (RRS), Abhohar were evaluated through RAPD analysis. Each of the 11 primers tested generated amplicons and out of a total of 69 amplicons produced 66 were polymorphic, with an average polymorphism of 95.60 %. Two primers (OPG 4 and 11) produced a maximum 10 amplicons each that were all polymorphic. The Jaccard’s similarity coefficient recorded an average similarity of 0.51, ranging from 40 % (CIAH, Bikaner) to 52 % (ARS, Sriganganagar). In the SAHN clustering based on UPGMA algorithms out of the 20 accessions, 17 accessions grouped in two major clusters, two accessions (C and F) together with a high level diversity (almost 50 %) into a third cluster while accession H remained outlier. The poor clustering of accessions from the same location indicated diverse genotypes which could have come from diverse basic material or chance seedlings or accumulation of mutations. The presence of diversity in the orchards could hamper realization of potential yield and uniformity of produce. The study thus clearly suggests need for purification and multiplication of desired types from the presently growing kinnow plantation.

24 ref

006099   CHEN B, JIANG B, DENG Y, ZHANG J, HU M, FAN H, LI X (Fujian Academy of Forestry Sciences, Fujian, China) : The seedling and cutting propagation techniques of Acer fabri Hance. Vegetos 2019, 32(1), 98-102.

The germination rate of conventional seed treatment for Acer fabri is relatively low. It is of great significance to study seed propagation methods to improve germination rate of A. fabri. The seeds of A. fabri should be harvested in November and stored in wet sand till February or March next year. Cool storage or room temperature storage is not conducive to the germination of A. fabri. After pregermination, the seeds can be sown in sandy soil and the germination rate could reach more than 70 %. The cutting scions of A. fabri may not be processed, or may be treated by 100 PPM Indolebutyric acid on the scion base, and the rooting rate reached 94 %, the average number of lateral roots per plant reached 3.6, and the average lateral root length reached 5.3 cm. Too many roots generated while the base of scions was treated with 1000 PPM or 2000 PPM Indolebutyric acid, and the plantlets grew slowly. A. fabri contains high endogenous hormone, so low concentration IBA or no growth regulator treatment is beneficial to root and later growth. The results provide practical mass production techniques for A. fabri.

11 ref

006151   Mundada P S, UMDALE S D, NIKAM T D, AHIRE M L (Botany Dep, Yashavantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Maharashtra- 415 001) : Genetic diversity using RAPD markers, mineral composition and their correlation in selected local landraces of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]. Vegetos 2019, 32(1), 1-10.

Twelve local cultivars of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] were evaluated for their molecular diversity and mineral composition. Twelve selected RAPD primers generated 162 amplified fragments with an average of 13.5 bands per primer and 86.08 % polymorphism. The average PIC, EMR, MI and RP values were 0.30, 5.79, 1.75 and 5.97 respectively, per primer. The Jaccard’s similarity coefficient values ranged from 0.44 to 0.67. The dendrogram grouped 12 finger millet cultivars into three distinctive groups based on their divergence analysis which indicates that significant genetic diversity was present among the cultivars. Among the major elements, average calcium content was found to be highest in all the cultivars followed by sodium, sulphur and nitrogen. The average content of manganese was followed by zinc and iron between the minor elements. The correlation studies between genetic diversity using Shannon diversity index and mineral content showed positive correlation among all the minerals studied excluding nitrogen. Genetic diversity combined with mineral datasets will be useful for selection of suitable cultivars for improvement of nutritional values in finger millet varieties through conventional and molecular breeding approaches.

42 ref

006196   SINGH J, RANI S, RINNI R, MANISH (Foundation of Agricultural Resources Management & Environmental Remedy, Ghaziabad- 201 002, Email: jps.farmer@gmail.com) : Modified semi-synthetic diet for mass rearing of wax moth Galleria mellonella L. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 546-8.

A semi-synthetic diet with modified composition was used for mass rearing of wax moth Galleria mellonella L. (28+2 º C, 65+5 %RH, 12:12 scoto-photophase). The ingredients consisted of wheat flour (Triticum aestivum) (170 g), maize flour (Zea mays) (170 g), oat (Avena sativa) (160 g), milk powder (170 g), yeast powder (20 g), honey (160 ml), glycerin (150 ml), streptomycin sulphate (0.5 g) and two vitamin E capsules (Evion 400 mg^-2). This diet successfully supported growth and development of G. mellonella for three generations with enhanced larval weight. The biological parameters based on three continuous generations showed maximum larval weight of 5th instars, (44.1 mg), pupal weight (24.0 mg), pupation (74 %), emergence (83 %), survival (63 %), fecundity (1252 eggs/female) and fertility (77 %) with lesser developmental period (egg to adult) of 62 days. All the components of the diet are easily available and economical too as the cost of 1 kg diet was approximately Rs. 500 only, for rearing 1000 larvae successfully.

1 table, 7 ref

006170   PRASANTHI G, KUMAR N G, GOWDA B, NAVEENKUMAR G, PATIL B, GURU PIRASANNA PANDI G (Crop protection Div, ICAR-National Rice Research Institute, Cuttack- 753 006, Email: prasanthigolivi@gmail.com) : Population dynamics of soil mesofauna in soybean. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 536-40.

This study is on the interaction between soil biological characteristics and weather factors with an field experiment conducted at the UAS, GKVK, Bengaluru. Significant difference in abundance of soil fauna was documented among the treatments, of which the best treatment (20 t farm yard manure/ ha) for mesofauna was correlated with weather factors. Maximum and minimum temperature were observed significantly negatively correlated, while soil moisture and relative humidity were positively linked. The contribution of such abiotic factors to the abundance of soil mesofauna (67 %), Collembola (70 %), Cryptostimata (67 %), other acari (65 %), total acari (70 %), other invertebrates (39 %) has been brought out.

3 tables, 17 ref

006142   MEHTA M C, RAGHURAMAN M (Entomology and Agricultural Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi- 221 005, Email: smiti.manish@gmail.com) : Evaluation of acaricide mixtures against chilli yellow mite Polyphagotarsonemus latus. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 518-20.

The mixture of acaricides propargite+ hexythiazox resulted in more mortality of the chilli yellow mite Polyphagotarsonemus latus than their individual sprays. It also gave a higher % kill as compared to fenazaquin, fenpyroximate, and neem oil. With the first spray, propargite+ hexithiazox @ 567+27 a.i, there was maximum reduction in the life stages of P. latus (81.15 %) compared to its other doses, other acaricides and also neem oil. Similarly, with second spray too its dose @ 567+27 a.i gave maximum mortality (82.73 %), followed by its dose @ 525+25 a.i (76.18 %).

1 table, 16 ref

006118   JEER M, YELE Y, JAIN S K (ICAR-National Institute of Biotic Stress Management, Raipur- 493 225, Email: mallihugar@gmail.com) : Heavy infestation of sugarcane leafhopper Pyrilla perpusilla on wheat and oats in Chhattisgarh. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 516-7.

Heavy infestation of sugarcane leafhopper Pyrilla perpusilla Walker (Hemiptera: Lophopidae) was observed on wheat and oats in Chhattisgarh. On an average, 27.10 and 29.10 adults and nymphs/ plant were found on wheat and oats, respectively. Both adults and nymphs suck the sap from leaves and secrete honey dew which resulted in sooty mould development.

14 ref

006138   MANJU K P, LAKSHMI K V, BABU B S, ANITHA K (Entomology Dep, Krishi Vigyan Kendra Kerala Agricultural Univ, Kannur- 670 142, Email: manjukp30@gmail.com) : Weather based prediction models for whitefly Bemisia tabaci and okra yellow vein mosaic virus disease in okra. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 501-6.

Field trials were carried out to study the impact of abiotic factors on the population dynamics of whitefly vector and okra yellow vein mosaic virus (OYVMV) incidence in okra at National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources (NBPGR) Regional Station, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, during summer, 2015 and 2016. The weather parameters like minimum temperature, evening relative humidity and evaporation significantly influenced the population build up of whiteflies, while minimum temperature, evaporation, morning and evening relative humidity played an important role in the infestation of OYVMV. Weather parameters of preceding two weeks had more significant effect on the population buildup and OYVMV incidence than the preceding one week weather. The multiple regression equations developed for whitefly and OYVMV incidence with weather parameters predicted the whitefly population to an extent of 86 to 92 %, while they predicted the OYVMV incidence to an extent of 94 to 96 %.

2 tables, 27 ref

006199   SINGH S K, SINGH P S (Entomology Dep, Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj- 224 229, Email: skbhu1991@gmail.com) : Evaluation of green gram genotypes against whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius). Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 498-500.

Field experiments were carried out during kharif 2014 and 2015 at the Agriculture Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, for screening 20 green gram genotypes along with a local check, HUM-12 for resistance/ susceptibility to whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius). Weekly observations on the incidence/ cage were made on the 35th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW). The results revealed peak in population during the 39th SMW, and the mean incidence was observed to range from 3.02 to 9.12/ cage; maximum was in the genotype ML 5 followed by SM 48 and ML 1059; and the least was in PM-5 (3.02/ cage). The genotypes PM-5 (7.72 q ha^-1), IPM 306^-1 (6.96 q ha^-1) and HUM-16 (6.58 q ha^-1) gave the maximum yield, while IPM 306-6 followed by IPM 05-3-22 were with the lowest yield.

1 table, 15 ref

006154   NADELLA B, YELURI S R, ATUKURI K K, YENIGALLA S (Nova Agri Tech Ltd, Secunderabad, Telangana, Email: cro@novaagritech.com) : Monitoring of cotton pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella with Nova Agritech pheromone. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 488-9.

An experiment was carried out during kharif, 2017 in cotton to evaluate the efficacy of Nova Agritech pheromone lure ((Z,Z)-7, 11-hexadecadienyl acetate, (Z,E)-7,11- hexadecadienyl acetate) against the pink bollworm Pectinophora gossypiella (Saunders). Results revealed that the catches of male moths started from September with a peak in the 3rd and 4th week of December. These preliminary observations with Nova Agritech pheromone lure suggest that it is an effective attractant for males and could be used for monitoring of populations.

1 illus, 8 ref

006153   MUSHTAQ A, PATHANIA S S, MAKHDOOMI M I, NISSAR M (Entomology Dep, SKUAST-Kashmir, Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir, Email: aoufamushtaq@gmail.com) : Evaluation of tomato genotypes against fruit borer Helicoverpa armigera. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 482-4.

Screening of 21 tomato genotypes for their susceptibility to the fruit borer Helicoverpa armigera revealed that all genotypes are susceptible. However, the genotype SK-TVAR 1093 gave maximum fruit yield of 350.46 q/ ha with damage of 6.35 and 7.64 % on number and weight basis, respectively. The least fruit yield of 267.96 q/ha with damage of 33.52 and 32.64 % (on number and weigh basis, respectively) was in the genotype SK-TVAR 1107. Among the commercial cultivars, maximum yield was obtained in Punjab Chuhura (311.19 q/ ha) and Arka Vikas gave the least yield (284.47 q/ ha). Genotypes SK-TVAR-1048, SK-TVAR-1093, SK-TVAR-1142, SK-TVAR-1181 and H-86 with < 10.0 % damage could be categorized as resistant; and the maximum damage of 30.1- 40.0 % was in the genotypes SK-TVAR-1018, SK-TVAR-1107, SK-TVAR-1121 and Arka Vikas, thus getting categorized as susceptible.

1 table, 13 ref

006096   BUKHARI R, BALI R K (Sericulture Dep, Sher-e- Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu, Jammu- 180 009, J&K, Email: rubiabukhari@gmail.com) : Rearing performance of indigenous Bombyx mori breeds in subtropical conditions. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 477-81.

Any silkworm breeding programme involves selection of suitable parents. In order to know the superiority of a breed/ hybrid a common index giving adequate weightage to all important metric traits is of prime importance. Ten commercial traits viz., fecundity, hatching, larval weight on 5th day of 5th instar, its duration, total larval period, % of malformed cocoons, pupation rate, cocoon and shell weight and shell % were analyzed. The data revealed significant variability among the breeds, of which the promising breeds were identified using multiple trait Evaluation Index (EI) method for cumulative effect of several quantitative characters. Based on these analyses, the breeds ND5, CSR19, PO1, SPO, UDHEY-3, PO3, CSR18, ND2 and NSP were observed scoring maximum EI values (>50). These have been identified as promising breeds and recommended for further use in breeding to boost bivoltine silk production.

3 tables, 18 ref

006157   NIMISHA T, DEEPTHY K B, SUBRAMANIAN M, CHELLAPPAN M, SMITHA M S, GIRIJA T (Horticulture Vellanikkara Coll, Thrissur- 680 656, Email: nimishadevadas33@gmail.com) : Modulation in certain biochemical constituents of cashew as influenced by tea mosquito bug Helopeltis antonii. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 472-6.

The tea mosquito bug (TMB) Helopeltis antonii Signoret is a major constraint in cashew cultivation. Exploring host plant resistance will open up new avenues to manage this. The present study is the on biochemical changes occurring in four cashew varieties belonging to highly susceptible and less susceptible categories towards tea mosquito bug. The results reveal that total leaf protein was found to be more in the less susceptible variety Damodar (0.9925 mg g^-1) and the least with the highly susceptible Madakkathara^-1 (0.6729 mg g^-1). Likewise, the total phenol and tannin were more in the less susceptible Damodar (69.834 mg g^-1 and 4.276 mg g^-1, respectively) and Raghav (67.207 mg g^-1 and 4.420 mg g^-1, respectively); with the least values being in the highly susceptible Anagha and Madakkathara^-1. The activity of polyphenol oxidase was more in Damodar (0.003158 EU g^-1min^-1) and the least with Anagha (0.001406 EU g^-1min^-1). These observations on the biochemical changes conclude that there is significant variation in the infestation reactions of TMB in the highly susceptible and less susceptible cashew varieties. Also, the defensive molecules such as tannin, phenols and the defensive enzymes like polyphenol oxidase and phenyl alanine lyase were more in the less susceptible varieties Damodar and Raghav.

1 table, 18 ref

006134   KUMAR V, GUPTA D (Entomology Dep, Dr. YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Solan- 173 230, Email: divenderg@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of insecticides against woolly apple aphid Eriosoma lanigerum and its parasitoid Aphelinus mali. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 467-71.

Evaluation of certain insecticides and biopesticides against the woolly apple aphid Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann) on apple revealed that spirotetramat (0.015 %) is the most effective resulting in reduction of 68.48 and 61.04 % in colony count and colony size, respectively followed by flonicamid (0.05 %). Higher concentrations of biopesticides viz., Beauveria bassiana (2x10¹⁰ cfu/l), fish oil (1.0 %), neem oil (2.0 %) and azadirachtin (0.02 %) remained at par with each other registering 29.17, 31.32, 28.95 and 29.83 % reduction in colony count. Neem oil with 60 to 80 % parasitoid (Aphelinus mali) emergence was the safest, whereas, chlorpyriphos (0.04 %) with 15 to 20 % parasitoid emergence was the most toxic. Spirotetramat and flonicamid were moderately safe to the parasitoid.

2 tables, 17 ref

006145   MOHAPATRA S, GOGOI I (Entomology Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat, Assam, Email: swapnalisa23@gmail.com) : LC₅₀ and relative toxicity of plant extracts against cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora koch. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 463-6.

A laboratory bioassay was carried out to determine the LC₅₀ and relative toxicity of three botanicals (leaf extracts) along with a check imidacloprid 17.8 SL and control on the cowpea aphid Aphis craccivora Koch. Extract of Polygonum hydropiper showed the maximum efficacy (LC₅₀- 0.341 %) followed by Murraya koenigii (0.707 %) and Pongamia pinnata (3.357 %) after 72 hr exposure. Considering the relative toxicity of imidacloprid as unit value, P. hydropiper, M. koenigii and P. pinnata were 0.090, 0.043 and 0.009x less toxic, respectively.

2 tables, 19 ref

006092   BALPANDE S, SAXENA A K (Entomology Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur- 482 004, Email: sachin.balpande7@gmail.com) : Population dynamics of major pests of okra. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 439-42.

Seasonal incidence of major insect pests of okra was studied during kharif 2017 on the basis of standard meteorological weeks (SMW) at the College of Agriculture Jabalpur, on variety GAO5. The jassid Amrasca biguttula biguttula and aphid Aphis gossypii were observed to be active from August to October with their peak during 40th SMW (2.3 jassid and 1.5 aphid/ leaf). The whitefly Bemisia tabaci occurred between second week of August and third week of October with peak in 38 SMW (7.4 whitefly/ plant). Red spider mite Tetranychus urticae was observed from 6th to 30th October with peak at 42 SMW (690.7 nymph+ adult mites/ leaf). The shoot and fruit borer Earias vitella was observed from second week of September (37 SMW) up to fourth week of August (43 SMW) with three peaks in 38, 41 and 43 SMW (5.61, 6.38 and 4.67 % fruit infestation). Correlation and regression analysis of incidence with weather factors revealed that population of jassid (nymph+ adult/ leaf) had a significant positive relation with maximum temperature (r=0.68); and aphid (nymph+ adult/ leaf) had a significant positive correlation with number of rainy days and morning vapour pressure (r=0.64 and 0.62).

2 tables, 14 ref

006182   SAKTHIVEL N (Central Silk Board, Salem- 636 017, Email: drnsakthivelcsb@gmail.com) : Evaluation of mounting materials on cocoon traits of ERI silkworm. Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 431-3.

This study evaluates coconut green leaves, coconut dry leaves, palm dry leaves, bamboo mountages (chandrike), rotary mountage and plastic collapsible mountage (n etrike) as alternate materials for coccon spinning of eri silk worm. The results revealed that rotary mountages were superior followed by bamboo chandrike and plastic collapsible mountage, in terms of the parameters resulting in its optimum rearing.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

006171   PRITHIVA J N, GANAPATHY N, MUTHUKRISHNAN N, MOHANKUMAR S, CHANDRASEKHAR C N (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore- 641 003, Email: ngpathy@rediffmail.com) : Field evaluation of okra genotypes for resistance to leafhopper Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida). Indian J Entomol 2019, 81(3), 411-7.

Varietal resistance is one of the key IPM strategies to avoid indiscriminate use of sinsecticides.This study evaluates 23 okra genotypes against leafhopper Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida). The experiment was conducted in two locations in Randomized Block Design during 2018 and 2019. The results revealed that the most infested or preferred genotypes were AE 10, Pusa Sawani and AE 15 with pooled damage grade index being 3.23, 3.15 and 3.18, respectively. The least mean numbers of leafhopper and damage grade index were observed with the genotypes AE 65 and AE 23, with differences among the genotypes evaluated being statistically significant.

1 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

006132   KUMAR S, SINGH S K, SRIVASTAVA A K (Jawaharlal Nehru Agriculture Univ, Jabalpur- 472 001, Email: sksingh2011_12@rediffmail.com) : Effect of I/M Se and Vit E administration combined with cooler hours feeding regime on milk production in buffaloes in hot–humid climate of Bundelkhand region. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(9), 1258-60.

A farm experiment was carried out to assess the effect of vitamin E and selenium I/M injection on performance of buffaloes during heat stress period in Tikamgarh district of Bundelkhand Agroclimatic zone. A total of 24 animals (80±10 days postpartum and 650±25 kg body weight) were randomly divided in to 3 treatments with 8 buffaloes in each group in a completely randomized design and received a balance feed as per BIS 1992 (Type-II). T₂ group was injected with 10 ml from a solution of vitamin E and selenium after interval of 10 days and T₃ group was injected I/M with 10 ml from solution of vitamin E and selenium after interval of 15 days. Dry matter intake and milk yield and milk composition in T₂ & T₃ was observed to be higher (P>0.05) than control group. The respiration rate and pulse rate were observed to be significantly higher (P>0.05) in T₁ group than T₂ & T₃ , rectal temperature was also significantly higher in T₁ (P>0.05). Thermal heat index was also calculated and reported in this study.

1 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

006097   CHANDAN P, BHATTACHARYA T K, RAJKUMAR U, PRINCE L L L, CHATTERJEE R N (ICAR- Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad- 500 030, Email: drcdvet17@gmail.com) : Estimation of genetic parameters of growth and egg production traits by animal model in IWK layer strain. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(9), 1252-7.

Indian White Leghorn strain-IWK has been improved for higher egg weight as well as number over last twelve generations at ICAR-Directorate of Poultry Research, Hyderabad. The data collected on various economic traits of egg production were analyzed using REML approach of animal model. Current study showed that the heritability estimate of body weight, age at sexual maturity (ASM), egg numbers and egg weight was moderate to high, low to moderate, low and high, respectively. The body weight was positively correlated with egg weight but negatively correlated with egg numbers. The body weight at 16 and 20 weeks were negatively correlated with ASM and were very important for achieving early ASM. ASM was negatively correlated with egg numbers. The egg weight regressed as the egg number increased. The part period egg production EP52 was highly correlated with EP64; therefore EP52 can be used for selecting parents for higher egg number instead of EP64.

2 tables, 46 ref

006107   ELITOK B, KILIC M I (Afyon Kocatepe Univ, Afyonkarahisar- 03200, Email: elitok1969@hotmail.com) : Effects of traditional and modern housing conditions on some internal medicine parameters in cattle. Indian J Anim Res 2019, 53(9), 1246-51.

This study was carried out in a total of 100 cattle aged between 6 to 18 months housed in modern and traditional husbandry farms. Clinical, ruminal fluid, hematological, blood biochemical and blood gases examinations were determined on days the 1^st, 3^rd and 7^th days of the study. At the end of the study, it was shown that the respiration and heart frequencies, WBC, RBC, PCO₂ , HCO₃ - , AST, GGT, glucose and cortisol levels in the animals breeding in the traditional farm were found to be higher than those of the animals breeding in the modern husbandries, whereas seratonin, total protein and albumin levels were low.

5 tables, 26 ref

006149   MUKHOPADHYAY S (Bally Shiksha Niketan for Boys, Bally, Howrah, Email: subhadip8888@gmail.com) : The effect of noise on blood pressure and academic achievement of students in educational institutions: A study based on urban and rural area school children of Bally, Howrah. Harvest 2019, 4(2), 1-12.

The term noise is commonly used to describe sounds that are disagreeable or unpleasant produced by acoustic waves of random intensities and frequencies. Educational institutes are located near the busy places such as busstand, market area, busy roads etc. suffer from noises and hence disturbing in school activities like teaching, learning and discussion session.Therefore, educational zone requires a serene atmosphere instead of any disturbances including from the traffic noise. Evidence shows that continuous exposure to noise can changes the blood pressure and heart rate in school children. Most of the studies have shown a rise in systolic and/or diastolic blood pressure with decreasing summative achievement. From the results of the study it is shown that significant changes are there in systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure, from the students of urban noisy area and rural quite area. So this indicates that noise can be a contributing factor in the development of arterial hypertension and consequently their achievement can be effected.

2 illus, 4 tables, 11 ref

006217   VERMA A K (Central Regional Center, Allahabad- 211 002, Email: simashutosh@rediffmail.com) : Study of relative antioxidant potential of induced variants of Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don in salt stress condition for the effective selection of salt tolerant variant. Free Radic Antioxid 2019, 9(2), 73-7.

Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don is an important plant documented for variety of medicinal uses and salt tolerant potential. During genetic improvement programme an attempt of induced mutagenesis was made for isolation of improved genotype of C. roseus var. Nirmal (CIMAP 0865) and nine EMS induced variants were isolated. Present study was made for the assessment of relative antioxidative potential of these variants and identification/selection of salt tolerant genotype. For the assessment of relative antioxidative potential under glass house condition one month old seedlings of all variants exposed to salt stress condition and the activities of antioxidant enzymes viz., superoxide dismutase, peroxidase and catalase were estimated in leaf tissue at 4th day and 8th day of NaCl supply while proline and total alka-loid contents were estimated at 8th day of NaCl supply.  In general, NaCl imposition causes increase in activity of earlier two enzymes, decrease in catalase activity and stimula-tory effect on proline and total alkaloid content. Values for these parameters varied with type of variants. Variants V2, V3 and V7 exhibited higher activity of antioxidant enzymes and had high accumulation of proline and total alkaloids. The variants V2, V3 and V7, having higher estimates for these parameters than that of parental variety which indicates their better survival/adaptive potential against salt stress condition and in context of salt tolerant may be utilized in genetic improvement programme of C. roseus.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

006102   DEORI C, THAKURIA K, KURMI K (Agronomy Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat- 785 013, Email: thakuria_k@yahoo.com) : Effect of intercropping and planting methods on perennial grasses. Forage Res 2019, 45(2), 162-4.

A field experiment was conducted from October, 2016 to December, 2017 at the Instructionalcum Research Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat to evaluate the performance of three perennial grasses under sole and intercropping systems adopting two planting methods. Results revealed that sole cropping of setaria and intercropping of hybrid napier + setaria recorded the highest green forage yield. Alternate row and column method also produced higher green forage yield. On the contrary hybrid napier as sole cropping and intercropping of setaria + guinea recorded the highest dry mater and crude protein yield. The net profit and benefit-cost ratio were recorded highest with sole cropping of setaria and intercropping of hybrid napier with setaria in alternate row and column method.

1 table, 3 ref

006103   DEWANGAN N K, DAHIYA G S, JANGHEL D K, KARYA R K (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: gsdahiya69@gmail.com) : Correlation and path analysis in exotic and indigenous types of faba bean for yield and its component traits. Forage Res 2019, 45(2), 159-61.

Correlation and path analysis studies were conducted to determine the association among various seed yield and its component traits, and the direct and indirect contribution towards seed yield in 80 elite diverse faba bean genotypes collected from different geographical areas among them 31 are exotic types and 49 are indigenous types. Seed yield per plant had a positive and highly significant genotypic and phenotypic correlations with days to 50 % flowering (41.67 and 96.33), days to maturity (142 and 195.33), plant height, number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod and 100 seed weight. Path coefficient analysis indicated that 100 seed weight had the highest direct and positive effect on seed yield per plant followed by number of pods per plant, number of seeds per pod, days to 50 % flowering, number of branches per plant, plant height. So, from the combined results of correlation coefficient and path analysis, it may be concluded that 100 seed weight, branches per plant and number of pods per plant are the major yield contributing traits to be given selection pressure for improving yield.

2 tables, 13 ref