006224   YEWLE N, SWAIN K, MANN S, CHANDRASEKAR V, KALNAR Y (Agricultural Engineering Dep, Visva-Bharati Central Univ, Shantiniketan- 731 235, West Bengal, Email: sandeep_mann76@yahoo.com) : Effect of polishing on chemical and engineering properties of yellow and black turmeric. Ann Phytomed 2019, 8(2), 85-92.

Effect of polishing on chemical and engineering properties of yellow and black turmeric rhizomes was studied and reported. The percentage of moisture content, protein, fat, carbohydrate, pH and curcumin of fresh and polished yellow turmeric were found to be 60.23, 1.30, 0.78, 34.04, 6.47 and 2.19; and 12.3, 1.20, 1.28 %, 76.3, 6.28 and 4.26; respectively. Similarly, for fresh and polished black turmeric, percentage of moisture content, protein, fat, carbohydrate, pH and Curcumin per cent of fresh and polished was found to be 13.47, 0.69, 0.67, 80.8, 5.52 and 0.31; and 8.11, 0.93, 0.56, 83.38, 5.96 and 0.45, respectively. Physical properties like arithmetic mean diameter, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, aspect ratio, and surface area of fresh and polished yellow turmeric were found to be 41.85 mm, 37.73 mm, 56.29, 51.29, and 4455.07 mm² ; and 33.69, 27.81, 44.72, 40.36, and 2429.93 mm² , respectively. Similarly, for fresh and polished black turmeric, the arithmetic mean diameter, geometric mean diameter, sphericity, aspect ratio, and surface area were found to be 39.56, 36.17, 56.93, 49.59 and 4109 mm² ; and 26.90, 21.29, 39.57, 27.45 and 1423 mm² , respectively. Engineering properties like bulk density, true density, porosity and frictional properties of angle of repose of fresh and polished yellow turmeric were found to be 810 kg/ m³ , 1780 kg/m³ , 99.54 %, and 42.510; and 663.33 kg/m³ , 1658 kg/m³ , 99.34 %, and 31.210, respectively. Similarly, for fresh and polished black turmeric, the bulk density, true density, porosity, and frictional properties of angle of repose were found to be 802 kg/m³ , 1966 kg/m³ , 99.59 %, and 39.680; and 696 kg/m³ ,1560 kg/m³ , 99.53 % and 33.470, respectively. The results indicated that polishing affected the chemical and engineering properties of yellow and black turmeric rhizomes.

15 illus, 2 tables, 42 ref

006174   RAJ K H, SRINIVAS T, RAO V S, RAO P V R, UMAR S K N (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agriculture Coll, Bapatla, A.P) : Character association for salinity tolerance at seedling stage and yield components under saline conditions in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Andhra Agric J 2019, 66(3), 450-2.

The study was conducted to examine the relationships between salinity tolerance at seedling stage and yield components of 80 rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes which were grown under saline conditions. Association studies revealed that plant height, number of ear bearing tillers, number of filled grains, panicle length and test weight unveiled positive and significant collaboration with grain yield indicating that the characters under study assist in selecting the genotypes which can grow normally and induce grain yield under saline conditions.

1 table, 11 ref

006129   KUMAR G S, KUMAR B N V S R R, LAKSHMI B V, KISHORE M N (Genetics and Plan Breading Dep, Agricultural Coll, Bapatla, A.P) : Evaluation of F_5:6 rils derived from cross MTU 3626 x BM 71 for genetic parameters and BPH tolerance in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Andhra Agric J 2019, 66(3), 444-9.

Evaluation of one hundred and forty two RILs in F5:6 generation for genetic parameters of five yield attributing traits viz., days to 50 % flowering, plant height (cm), ear bearing tillers per plant, panicle length (cm) and grain yield per plant (g) and screening for brown plant hopper resistance was done during kharif, 2018 at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Maruteru, Andhra Pradesh. For grain yield per plant (g) higher estimates of both GCV and PCV were observed indicating greater variability. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percent of mean was also observed for grain yield per plant (g) indicating presence of additive gene action, hence improvement for grain yield per plant (g) can be done through simple selection. Phenotypic evaluation for brown plant hopper (Nilaparvatha lugens Stal) tolerance in laboratory screening using standard seed box technique showed that forty four RILs were resistant, sixty two RILs were moderately resistant, thirty RILs were moderately susceptible and six RILs were susceptible, whereas in field screening sixty seven RILs were resistant, thirty four RILs were moderately resistant, twenty RILs were moderately susceptible, twenty one RILs were susceptible. Among the RILs evaluated ten RILs showed moderate brown plant hopper resistance with score less than 5.0 in both the screening methods and high yield than the checks.

1 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

006135   LAKSHMI M V, RAO C P, PRASAD P V N, RANI P P, RANI Y A (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Coll, Bapatla, A.P) : Studies on growth and yield of groundnut as influenced by phosphorus management practices. Andhra Agric J 2019, 66(3), 436-43.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi 2016-17 and 2017-18, respectively on sandy loam soils at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla to study growth and yield of groundnut as influenced by phosphorus management practices. The experiment was laid out in a Split-split plot design in rabi groundnut and the treatments were replicated thrice. The treatments consisted of four main plots residual effect of kharif sources and levels of phosphorus S1 : Inorganic fertilizer phosphorus through SSP, S2 : Green manuring in-situ with dhaincha @ 25 kg seed ha^-1 , S3 : Biofertilizer (PSB) @ 750 ml ha^-1 , S4 : Green manuring in-situ with dhaincha @ 25 kg seed ha^-1 + Biofertilizer (PSB) @ 750 ml ha^-1 and three subplots levels of phosphorus L1 : 50 % Recommended dose of P , L2 : 100 % Recommended dose of P and L3 : 150 % Recommended dose of P. During rabi season with groundnut crop, each sub plot was divided into three sub-sub plots and total thirty six treatments were laid in a Split-split design. Results of the experiment showed that residual sources and levels of phosphorus to preceeding rice crop i.e., in-situ green manuring + PSB showed superior performance in terms of yield and growth characters like plant height, drymatter accumulation, number of branches plant^-1 of groundnut but was on a par with that of application of in-situ green manuring and significantly superior over inorganic fertilizer through SSP and biofertilizer (PSB) during both the years and pooled data of study. During rabi, 100 % RDP showed significantly higher plant height, drymatter accumulation, number of branches plant^-1 and yield over control and it was on a par with 50 % RDP during both years and pooled data.

4 tables, 18 ref

006156   NAZMA S, LAKSHMI N V, CHANDRASEKHAR K, LAKSHMI G V, SREE S P (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Coll, Bapatla, A.P) : Influence of water management practices on yield and moisture use efficiency of different millet crops under rice fallows. Andhra Agric J 2019, 66(3), 433-5.

A field experiment was conducted on clay loam soils of Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla during rabi, 2017-18 to study the effect of deficit water management practices on growth and yield of rice fallow millet crops. Results of the experiment revealed that growth parameters, yield attributes and yield were influenced by scheduling of irrigation at different stages of crop growth in maize, sorghum and bajra. Higher plant height in maize (260.5 cm), sorghum (203.6 cm) and bajra (150.4 cm) were recorded under irrigation scheduled at vegetative, flowering and grain filling stages compared to V2 , V3 and V4 treatment. In drymatter accumulation, irrigation scheduled at vegetative, flowering and grain filling stages (V1 ) recorded higher drymatter accumulation in maize (13498 kg ha^-1 ), sorghum (16170 kg ha^-1 ) and bajra (12834 kg ha^-1 ), followed by irrigations given at flowering and grain filling stages (V3 ). Higher equivalent yield in maize (6320 kg ha^-1 ), sorghum (6992 kg ha^-1 ) and bajra (2768 kg ha^-1 ) were recorded under irrigation scheduled at vegetative, flowering and grain filling stages compared to V2 , V3 and V4 treatments. However, higher moisture use efficiency was registered with Irrigation given at flowering stage only (V4 ) in all the three crops compared to other treatments.

4 tables, 5 ref

006146   MRUDHULA K A, RAO C P, VENKATESWARLU B, PRASAD P R K, RANI Y A (Agronomy Dep, Agricultural Coll, Bapatla, A.P) : Performance of green manures and phosphorus levels in rice-blackgram cropping sequence. Andhra Agric J 2019, 66(3), 428-32.

A field experiment was conducted during 2015 and 2016 to study the effect of green manures and phosphorus levels in blackgram crop at Agricultural College Farm, Bapatla. The experiment was conducted in split-split plot design on sandy clay loam soil with three main treatments, three sub-treatments to kharif rice and three sub-sub treatments to rabi crop. The treatments consisted of dhaincha and sunnhemp as green manure crops and without green manure as main plot treatments and three phosphorus levels to rice crop comprising of 45 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 , 60 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 and 75 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 as sub- plot treatments and are replicated thrice. The rabi experiment was laid out on the same site in a split-split plot design without disturbing the soil for succeeding blackgram crop. Growth parameters, yield attributes and yield of blackgram were significantly higher which received dhaincha green manure incorporation with 75 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 to kharif rice crop and 100 % RDP to rabi blackgram and it was on a par with sunnhemp green manure incorporation with 75 kg P₂O₅ ha^-1 to kharif rice crop and 100 % RDP to rabi blackgram.

2 tables, 9 ref

006125   KAVIYARASAN K, ATHITHAN S (Fisheries Coll & Research Institute, Thoothukudi– 628 008, Tamil Nadu, Email: athithan@tnfu.ac.in) : Evaluation of periphyton quantity on different natural substrates in freshwater. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 250-3.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the periphyton quantity in different natural substrates for natural feed production in FRP tanks under freshwater. Experiments were conducted in outdoor FRP tanks (1500 litres) to observe periphyton quantity on three types of natural substrates such as split bamboo pole, coconut coir and coconut shell, which were placed inside the FRP tanks filled with freshwater for duration of 45 days. Observations were made in every 15^th day for growth of periphyton both qualitatively and quantitatively on the three natural substrates. The mean value of periphyton quantity recorded for different substrates reared in freshwater showed highly significant positive correlation (p < 0.001) with days of culture. Student’s ‘t’ test analysis confirmed that mean values of periphyton quantity recorded in freshwater with duration showed significant differences (p < 0.05)  between different substrates. From this study, it was observed that among the different substrates used for natural periphyton growth, split bamboo pole exhibited higher periphyton quantity than coconut coir and coconut shell. 

19 ref

006200   SINGH S P, VISHWAKARMA S K, SINGH S P, DAS M M, KUMAR A, SRIVASTAVA V K (Plant Pathology Div, Sugarcane Research Institute, Shahjahanpur- 242 001, Email: sujeetsugarcane@rediffmail.com) : Frequency of red rot resistance in the progeny population of various cross combinations. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 232-5.

Resistance pattern in parents produce predominantly resistance progenies. Inheritance of resistance gene against red rot intensely affected to degree of frequency in progenies. Present study was commenced to find out the role of parental crosses to develop resistant progenies in first clonal generation over a period of two consecutive years. Total of 2262 progenies of 10 bi-parental crosses combinations were evaluated to red rot resistance. CoS 96260, CoS 95255, CoS 8436, Co 0238, CoSe 92423, Co 89003, Co 62198 and CoS 08272 were good parents which involved in bi-parental cross combination, produced predominantly resistant progenies ranging from 40 to 100 per cent. The cross combination Co 8213 × CoS 96260 produced maximum proportion 100% resistant progenies, higher than CoS 95255 × CoA 7602 (83.33 %) and Co 8436 × Co 1148 (80%). These parents identified as a good combiner and also found to inherit resistance gene in bulk of its progenies. These parents could be used as a donor parents in red rot resistance breeding programmes of sugarcane.

12 ref

006190   SIDDAPPA S, RAVINDRA M, SHASHIKANTH E (Vegetable Science Dep, Horticulture Coll, Arabhavi- 591 218, Karnataka, Email: sidduhs06@gmail.com) : Combining ability analysis in Chilli (Capsicum Annum L.). Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 220-3.

Twenty four crosses were developed by crossing three male sterile lines with each of eight testers to study the combining ability. Crosses were evaluated along with the parents in randomized block design with two replications. Results indicated that female line KCMS-44 and tester AL were identified as good general combiners for earliness and green fruit yield per hectare. The KCMS-44 × AL was best specific cross for green fruit yield per hectare on the basis of specific combining ability effects. This study suggested the exploitation of hybrid vigor in chilli.

8 ref

006216   VENKATARATNAM T, LATHA M L, SEKHAR M R, KUMAR A R N (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, S.V. Agricultural Coll, Tirupati- 517 502, Andhra Pradesh, Email: lmlreddy36@gmail.com) : Genetic divergence studies in little millet (Panicum sumatrense). Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 210-4.

Genetic diversity was estimated in 50 little millet genotypes by Mahalanobis D² analysis for nine quantitative and eight physiological traits. In the present investigation based on D² analysis fifty genotypes were grouped into 7 clusters. Among the different clusters cluster I had maximum number 35 genotypes followed by cluster II contains 10 and clusters III, IV, V, VI, VII were solitary. Inter cluster distances were higher than intra cluster distances indicating wider genetic diversity among the genotypes. The maximum inter cluster distance was observed between cluster IV and VII (131.19) followed by cluster II and IV (112.18) and cluster III and VII (104.28) indicated the existence of highly divergent genotypes. The genotypes from these clusters could be used as parents in hybridization programme to develop good recombinants. Days to 50% flowering, plant height, leaf area index at panicle initiation stage and 1000 seed weight contributed maximum towards genetic diversity. These traits could be given importance for selecting parents in crop improvement programme.

12 ref

006172   RAI A K, BASU A K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia -741252, West Bengal, Email: anujrai62@gmail.com) : Post-fertilization development of seed in okra genotypes: Changes in seed quality. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 205-9.

A research trail was conducted to assess qualitative changes of Okra genotypes at District Seed Farm “D” Block, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal during summer season of both 2011 and 2012 to assess the post- fertilization changes in seed quality. All the five genotypes were grown with adequate population in three replications following randomized block design (RBD) for the purpose of developmental studies. Harvesting of developing pods were done at 3, 5 and 7 days after anthesis (DAA) and seven days interval thereafter up to 42 DAA .Harvested pods and seeds were utilized for this development programme through total dry matter production, dry seed weight, germination and vigour index. Lalu was identified as the variety for which total dry matter production was maximum, followed by Japani Jhar, Arka Anamika, Ramya and Lady Luck, when average was made over stages of development, irrespective of the cropping seasons. Average germination was recorded to be maximum for Japani Jhar followed by Arka Anamika, Lalu, Lady Luck and Ramya irrespective of the year of experimentation, of which significantly similar performance was noted for Lady Luck and Ramya in first year, and Japani Jhar and Arka Anamika in second year. Significantly highest magnitude of vigour index was derived for Arka Anamika in both the years followed by Japani Jhar, Lalu, Ramya and Lady Luck, when average was made over stages of development. Average vigour index of Lalu and Japani Jhar as well as that of Lady Luck and Ramya were statistically similar with each other.

22 ref

006148   MUHAMED S, KURIEN S, REMZEENA A (Fruit Science Dep, Horticulture Coll, Thrissur, Kerala, Email: sameereriyadan@gmail.com) : Selection indices for improved traits in rambutan (Nephelium lappaceum L.). Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 200-4.

The study based on the characterization of natural variability of rambutan existing in the homesteads of entire Kerala state was taken up with the prime objective of comparing the Kerala collections of rambutan and rating it with the existing quality standards and popular varieties in order to develop a selection criteria. The characterization of over 100 variable types of rambutan revealed that Kerala collections of rambutan are not only comparable with the prevailing standards/varieties, but even excelled over them in most important fruit characters. Clustering of rambutan collections identified under different categories namely as elite dessert types, export types and for industrial use confirmed the superiority of six collections over others. The lowest, mid and highest values of these collections were taken for redefining the existing standards so as to categorize them as elite, super elite and an ideotype respectively. This selection criteria realized from the highest potential realized from this study can certainly serve as a directional principle to the fruit breeders that what should be an ideotype, super elite and elite and also to have a benchmark for each attribute to qualify to these standards.  

8 ref

006212   TURAMYENYIRIJURU A, NYAGATARE G, GESIMBA R M, BIRECH R J (Crop Science Dep, Rwanda Univ, Musanze, Email: sefibahir2009@gmail.com) : Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) tuber yield and yield components as influenced by different levels of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium in Rwanda. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 195-9.

Despite potato yield potential, its intensification level remain low in Rwanda, translating into low yield occasioned mainly by the decline in soil fertility. Field experiments were conducted in Birunga, Mudende [L₁]) and Buberuka, Rwerere [L₂] highlands Agro-Ecological Zones (AEZs), during September- December 2016 and March-June 2017 crop growing seasons to determine the effects of varying rates of N, P and K on potato tuber yield and yield components. The experiments were laid out using randomized complete block design with factorial arrangement, with four replicates. Factors were N rates (N_X) i.e  N₁-0 kg ha^-1, N_{2 –} 50 kg ha^-1, N_{3 –} 100 kg ha^-1 ; P₂O₅ rates (P_X) i.e P₁-0 kg ha^-1, P_{2 –} 50 kg ha^-1, P_{3 –} 100 kg ha^-1and K₂O rates (K_x) i.e K₁- 0 kg ha¹and K₂- 50 kg ha^-1. Number of tubers per plant, fresh tuber weight, small tuber yield, medium tuber yield, large tuber yield and total tuber yield were measured. Analysis of variance, performed using SAS-version 9.2, revealed that interaction effects of N×P×K were very highly significant on all parameters. Generally, N₃P₃K₂ performed better than other treatments and recorded highest tuber yields in all situations: (32.73 ± 0.43) t ha^-1[L₁] and (29.36 ± 0.41) t ha^-1 [L₂] and (31.05 ± 0.52) t ha^-1for pooled ANOVA. Contrarily to what happened at L₂, N₃P₃K₂ and N₂P₃K₂ were not significantly different at L_1. N₂P₃ K₂ is recommended to L₁ whereas N₃P₃K₂ is recommended to L₂.

20 ref

006104   DHAKA A, SINGH H, SHAILZA (Agricultural Economics & Management Dep, MPUA&T, Udaipur, Email: shell310569@gmail.com) : Growth and instability of cluster bean in Bhilwara District of Rajasthan. Agric Sci Dig 2019, 39(3), 190-4.

Cluster bean (Cyamposis tetragonoloba L.) commonly known as Guar, is a drought and high temperature tolerant deep rooted summer annual legume of high social and economic significance. It is used as animal feed, fodder, green manure and for extraction of gum for industrial uses. India, being largest cluster bean producer, contributes 75-80 per cent to the global cluster bean basket. Rajasthan is major player by contributing 72 per cent of total production. The expansion of uses of cluster bean to new areas has transformed cluster bean in recent years into an important export crop. Looking at the agricultural and industrial importance of this marginalized crop in Rajasthan, particularly realizing the potential in southern parts of the state, the present study attempted to analyse the present scenario of the area, production, productivity & instability analysis of cluster bean crop in Bhilwara district of the state. The area, production and productivity of cluster bean in Bhilwara district registered positive growth rates of 18.68, 29.13 & 8.54 per cent per annum, respectively. The coefficient of variation for area, production and productivity in Bhilwara district were 101.78, 127.74 & 144.36 per cent respectively. The value of CV was high for production and yield, indicating high instability. The instability in area was more in Bhilwara district compared to the state as a whole. Bhilwara district emerged as highest unstable and whole Rajasthan as lowest unstable in production of cluster bean during study period.

8 ref

006152   MURRY N (Nagaland Univ, Lumami, Nagaland, Email: nch.murry@gmail.com) : SWOT analysis of organic farming with special reference to Nagaland. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 243-6.

In India, the northeastern state of Sikkim achieved its goal of converting to 100 % organic farming. Other states, including Nagaland, Mizoram, Goa, Kerala, and Meghalaya, have also declared their intentions to shift to fully organic cultivation. Nagaland farmers rely heavily on traditional knowledge which advocates the use of commonly available organic materials such as cattle manure, leaf litter, and crop residues for enrichment of soil. These attributes put the region in a rather comfortable position to convert to fully organic agricultural production without major shifts in the prevailing farming paradigm. Studies has shown that there are inherent advantages for adoption and conversion of farming in Nagaland as the state has very less and negligible use of chemical in farming as well as the traditional system of farming model suits the principle of organic farming. It is noteworthy to point out the long age traditional shifting cultivation without the use of chemical although has negative externalities but has a scope to reinvent this model in more sustainable mode of farming. Nagaland, has rich biodiversity and is gradually making its entry into the organic farming market. Nagaland has potential for promotion of organic farming as farmers has been practicing traditional system of agricultural without the use of external inputs since its inception. Another farming practices adopted in Nagaland is the Alder based farming system and the Zabo arming system which has shown significantly self sustaining based on natural input management.

18 ref

006204   SUGANTHI M, MUTHUKRISHNAN P, CHINNUSAMY C (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Email: agrisuganthi@yahoo.com) : Crop weed competition in sugarcane - A review. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 239-42.

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is the most adaptable plant under sub-tropical and tropical conditions. Among the C₄ group of plants, sugarcane is one of the most efficient crops. Converting efficiency of solar radiation into photosynthates is relatively higher in sugarcane than any other crops evolved. But there is a wide yield gap between the potential and actual yield. Weeds are the major important threat in yield reduction of sugarcane crop. Hence knowledge about weed flora, critical period of crop weed competition, competition of weeds, effect of weed  on crop growth is helpful in deciding the method of weed management in particular crop. Reviewing of these parameters is helpful and it is carried out in this paper.

43 ref

006198   SINGH P, ARHA A, BHARDWAJ A (Horticulture Dep, Bihar Agricultural Univ, Bihar- 813 210, Email: shekhawatdeep@rediffmail.com) : Role of growing medium in yield and quality of Anthurium: A review. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 229-33.

Anthurium belongs to family Araceae and is highly praised flowering plant for its colourful long lasting unique flower and shining foliage. It is also an excellent plant for interior and as cut flower, especially for flower arrangement. The most suitable part of anthurium is modification of the leaf and botanically known as ‘spathe’. Heart shaped spathe emerges on the long flower stalk with a spadix. This plant blooms almost continuously under suitable conditions. It is epiphytic in nature with climbing, creeping and arboreous stems including many aerial roots that aid in taping water and nourishment. Quality and productivity of anthurium flowers depends on the growing medium. Most of the anthurium growers prepare own their growing media, but they do not know that the low productivity and quality might come from an poor potting mixture that they are using. One of the most important components of anthurium cultivation is the choice of growing substrate or medium. It is known to grow best in a well aerated medium with good water retention capacity and drainage. A good medium needs to be able to anchor the roots and stems so that the plant will not topple over as it grows larger, yet it should provide sufficient moisture, nutrient and aeration to the plant. The objective of this review is to present a summary of the influence of various growing medium on the growth, flowering, productivity and quality of anthurium grown in protected conditions. The results from the literature prove that the productivity of anthurium tends to be more in those plants which grown in different growing medium compared to soil grown plants.

42 ref

006197   SINGH M, JASWAL A, SINGH A (Agronomy Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Punjab, Email: ms23049@gmail.com) : Crop residue management for sustenance of natural resources and agriculture productivity. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 223-8.

Crop residue management (CRM) through conservation agriculture can improve soil productivity and crop production by preserving soil organic matter (SOM) levels. Two major benefits of surface-residue management are improved organic matter (OM) near the soil surface and boosted nutrient cycling and preservation. Larger microbial biomass and activity near the soil surface act as a pool for nutrients desirable in crop production and enhance structural stability for increased infiltration. In addition to the altered nutrient distribution within the soil profile, changes also occur in the chemical and physical properties of the soil. Improved soil C sequestration through enhanced CRM is a cost-effective option for reducing agriculture's impact on the environment. Ideally, CRM practices should be selected to optimize crop yields with negligible adverse effects on the environment. Crop residues of common agricultural crops are chief resources, not only as sources of nutrients for subsequent crops but also for amended soil, water and air quality. Maintaining and managing crop residues in agriculture can be economically beneficial to many producers and more importantly to society. Improved residue management and reduced tillage practices should be encouraged because of their beneficial role in reducing soil degradation and increasing soil productivity. Thus, farmers have a responsibility in making management decisions that will enable them to optimize crop yields and minimize environmental impacts. Multi-disciplinary and integrated efforts by a wide variety of scientists are required to design the best site-specific systems for CRM practices to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability while minimizing environmental impacts.

16 ref

006083   ABISHAG M M, BETSY C J, KUMAR J S S (Aquaculture Dep, Tamil Nadu Dr J Jayalalithaa Fisheries Univ, Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu, Email: mabishag@gmail.com) : Resources and productivity of Indian aquaculture – Status and prospects. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 208-15.

India tops the world in aquaculture production next to China. The present Blue Revolution envisages tripling fish production of India by 2020 which necessitates effective resource utilization. The aquaculture resources of a country cannot only be limited to land and water availability but also to its species diversity, workforce and infrastructure facilities. Though Indian aquaculture has registered increased production in past few years, the productivity in terms of water and manpower resources remain very low. There is also a need for diversification of species for mariculture activities. Hence, this paper examines the status of Indian aquaculture from a global perspective to sort out ways for enhancing productivity.

47 ref

006166   PAWAR R, RANA V S (Fruit Science Dep, Dr. YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni- 173 230, Solan, Email: ravinapanwar3@gmail.com) : Manipulation of source-sink relationship in pertinence to better fruit quality and yield in fruit crops: A review. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 200-7.

Profuse flowering and fruiting creates high demand for a limited source of carbohydrates, which affects fruit set and development. These plenty number of flowers and fruits must be reduced to allow the trees to produce fruit that meets market expectations for size, colour and quality. The concept of source-sink relationship and the regulation of carbon partitioning in plants is useful for better understanding of crop physiology and the influence of yield limiting factors on crop production. This relationship between source leaves and the various sink organs not only affects fruit production in the current season, but also the long term performance due to perennial nature of fruit trees. Modelling early season whole-tree carbohydrate supply and demand has greatly improved the understanding of response of trees to manipulation strategies relating source-sink alliance. Various strategies has been adopted to manipulate source-sink relationship like flower bud inhibition, flower thinning, fruitlet thinning, defoliation, girdling, pruning, application of hormones and nutrients etc. Thus, balance between vegetative and reproductive growth is an important aspect for improvement in yield and quality of fruit crops.

61 ref

006187   SHARMA R, VERMA S (Plant Pathology Dep, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni Solan-173 230, Email: shaleiniverma@gmail.com) : Environment-pathogen interaction in plant diseases. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 192-9.

Environment is an important aspect of plant ecology and global environmental change is of major concern that is caused by natural and human activities which alter greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere. The increase in concentration of greenhouse gases is foreseen to continue to raise average global temperature. Elevated concentration of carbon dioxide with increased temperature influences the plant-disease interactions. The environment has an influence over the development as well as temporal and spatial dissemination of plant diseases. The result of change in environment can either be favorable, non favorable or impartial, as these changes can either lessen, expand or have no influence on diseases as each disease may be attributed differently to these variations in accordance to an area or time of year. Variation in environmental conditions is said to be influencing plants in natural ecosystems all around the world and change in climate directly impacts crops, along with their synergy in accordance with the microbial population. The important elements governing magnification and spread of plant diseases are temperature, moisture, light and carbon dioxide concentration. Environment change causes a significant impact on germination, reproduction, sporulation, spore dispersal, along with perforation by pathogens as a vulnerable host will not be invaded by a pernicious pathogen if the environmental conditions are not facilitative for disease. The environment influences all life stages of host as well as that of a pathogen and as a result induces an opposition to various pathosystems. Resistance mechanisms of plants, including effector-triggered immunity (ETI), pattern-triggered immunity (PTI) and defence network of hormones, are particularly influenced by environmental elements. Pathogenic virulence mechanisms like fabrication of virulence proteins and toxins, and also spore germination and survival are governed by factors such as atmospheric carbon dioxide, temperature and humidity. A large number of in-vitro experiments to understand interactions between plants and pathogens rely on predetermined pathosystems by making use of ascertained environmental conditions which take into consideration relatively small part of vital plant–pathogen–environment interactions occurring in natural ecosystem. Thus, there is a need to research effectiveness of disease management strategies that is, to assess current management strategies to understand multifaceted nature of environment-pathogen interactions for production of crops that are irrepressible to environment change.

72 ref

006084   ADARSH S, Jacob J, Giffy t (Agronomy Dep, Kerala Agriculture Univ, Padannakkad- 671 314, Email: sssadarshsss@gmail.com) : Role of pulses in cropping systems: A review. Agric Rev 2019, 40(3), 185-91.

Climate change threatens global food and economic security. The decreased availability and import of pulses highlight the urgency of increased production. Pulse included cropping systems are the only way to enhance production as the area available are limited. Increased yield at spatial and temporal dimensions are focused here. Cropping system including pulses consists of inter cropping, sequential cropping, mixed cropping, relay cropping and paira/utera cropping. They compete for light, space, residual moisture content and available nutrients with companion crops. They improve soil properties, reduce pest and disease incidence. The specific role of pulses in cropping system includes high carbon sequestration capacity, low carbon footprint, fixing atmospheric nitrogen in soils, low water footprint, hydrogen fertilization of soils and improving soil biodiversity. Since they are easy to cultivate it creates employment opportunities for women. Pulses provide economic profitability to farmers. There lies a promising, sustainable and cost effective solution in these tiniest seeds.

12 illus, 9 tables, 40 ref

004826   KIYMAZ S, BEYAZ R (Biosystems Engineering Dep, Kirsehir Ahi Evran Univ, Kirsehir, Turkey, Email: sultan.kiymaz@gmail.com) : Morpho-Physiological responses of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars to drought stress. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 505-11.

Common bean (P. vulgaris L.) is the most important food legume in the diet of people and drought stress causes severe yield loss in this crop. This study was conducted to investigate morpho-physiological responses, yield and WUE of four common bean (P. vulgaris L.) cultivars (namely : “Sarikiz”, “Sazova”, “Kirk günlük”, and “Gina”) under different (I1.00: 100%-control of field capacity, I0.75: 75 % of field capacity and I0.50: 50 % of field capacity) water regimes. The investigation was conducted in a pots and experiments were carried out randomized plot design with ten replicates. The results of this investigation show that yield, yield components, LRWC, leaf area and chlorophyll contents were reduced, while WUE increase depending on the different water regimes in all cultivars. Consequently, cv. “Gina” may have the potential to be used in drought areas.

22 ref

004776   ÇAMLICA M, YALDIZ G (Field Crops Dep, Bolu Abant Izzet Baysal Univ, Bolu, Turkey, Email: mcamlica25@outlook.com) : Characterization of morphological and yield variation of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.) genotypes. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 500-4.

Trigonella foenum-graecum L. has an important place among cultivated plants in our country as well as in the world. This study was carried out to determine the morphological and yield properties of 118 fenugreek genotypes which obtained from United States Department of Agriculture and local cultivars. Among the genotypes and controls, plant height (24.95-85.15 cm), first pod height (17.00-35.78 cm), pod weight (0.63-63.05 g per plant-1), number of seed per pod (3.56-14.30), pod lenght (7.01-36.10 cm), 1000 seed weight (0.49-56.31 g) and seed yield per plant (0.21-27.44 g) were determined. As a result of study, the highest seed yield and 1000 seed weight were seen in PI 296394 genotype. Dendogram analysis grouped the set of fenugreek genotypes into two main groups and many of fenugreek genotypes in same origin were found in different groups.

15 ref

004759   ANSARI M T, PANDEY A K, MAILAPPA A S, SINGH S (Central Agriculture Univ, Pasighat-791 102, Email: siddharthasingh786@gmail.com) : Screening of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) genotypes for aluminium tolerance. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 495-9.

The present investigation was carried out to screen the dolichos bean genotypes for aluminium tolerance. The experiment was laid out in a factorial completely randomized design with 2 factors (20 genotypes with four aluminium concentration of 0, 15, 30, 45 mg of Al/kg soil) with three replications. Main effect and interaction effects were studied for vine length, root length, root tolerance index, root dry matter, shoot dry matter, leaf dry matter, total dry matter and extractable aluminium in soil at 4th week after sowing whereas the pod weight, pod length and yield were observed at harvesting stage. The genotypes and aluminium treatment showed significant difference for all the studied parameters. The interaction effect was also found to be significant for all the characters except for vine length. From the present study it was concluded that genotypes Pusa Sem 3, G₂ and G₄ were tolerant to aluminium toxicity upto 45 mg Al/kg as well as high yielding.

26 ref

004891   SARAVANAN S (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Vriddhachalam- 606 001, Email: sarapbg@gmail.com) : Cytological implications in interspecific cross of Arachis involving Arachis hypogaea var VRI 2 and Arachis stenosperma. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 490-4.

Unstable triploid and sterile derivatives were obtained upon inter-specific hybridization of Arachis hypogaea var VRI 2 (2n=4x=40) and Arachis stenosperma (2n=2x=20). Chromosomal doubling was resorted using colchicine enabling doubling the ploidy level of this triploid (3x) to get an unstable hexaploid derivative. The manuscript presents the cyto-morphological features of the unstable derivatives to frame a suitable breeding strategy for evolving the stable culture tolerant to major foliar diseases. Phenotypic traits like leaf colour, length and width of calyx tube, poor pollen fertility and abortive ovarian system were found to be dominant in the triploid. Chromosome doubled triploid progeny possessed leaves with larger veins, semi spreading habit, slow growth, shriveled anthers and improved pollen fertility as compared to triploid. While the normal meiotic behaviour witnessed among parents, the abnormal meiotic system as evidenced from the formation of trivalents and quadrivalents among triploid and hexaploid derivatives. Abnormal sporads also recorded among triploid and hexaploid leading to formation of sterile pollen grain.

17 ref

004818   KACHARE D P, SATBHAI R D, RATHOD D B, NAIK R M (Biochemistry Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri- 413 722, Email: dpkachare@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of pigeon pea (Cajanus Cajan L.) genotypes for nutritional quality. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 485-9.

An experiment was conducted for evaluation of proximate composition of 25 pigeon pea genotypes (Cajanus cajan L.)”differing in colour. The analysis revealed significant differences in the content of moisture (7.04-12.09 %); crude protein (17.62- 25.45 %); crude fat (1.41-2.93 %); carbohydrate, (49.68-60.48) and ash (3.05-5.00 %). Limiting amino acids viz tryptophan and methionine were ranged from 0.56-1.03 and 0.70-1.16 g/16g N respectively.  The genotype PT-012-16 was found to be high in protein (25.45 %), whereas the genotype PT-04-391 recorded the highest fat (2.93 %). The higher tryptophan was observed in genotype PT-012-26 (1.03 g/16g N) whereas highest methionine content was recorded in PT-012-6 (1.16 g/16g N).  All genotypes under study were found to be deficient in both the limiting amino acids tryptophan and methionine when compared with the WHO/FAO reference standard. This study revealed that the genotypes PT-012-9, PT-012-16 and PT-012-23 were found to be promising for future breeding programme for nutritional quality improvement.

2 tables, 25 ref

004768   BAKIR M (Agricultural Biotechnology Dep, Erciyes Univ, Kayseri- 38039, Email: melikecu@gmail.com) : Transferability of newly developed genomic lentil SSR markers to Cicer species. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 479-84.

Development of microsatellite markers requires a great effort, expertise and research infrastructure. Therefore, cross genera or species transferability of already developed markers has constituted a significant alternative. In this study, transferability of newly developed 53 genomic lentil (Lens culinaris Medik.) SSR markers to 32 accessions of Cicer species including C. arietinum L., C. bijugum K.H. Rech., C. echinospermum P.H. Davis, C. reticulatum Ladiz., C. pinnatifidium Jaub. & Sp., C. anatolicum Alef. was investigated. Of these markers, 33.09% were found to be transferrable to C. arietinum, 37.7% to C. echinospermum, 35.8% to C.reticulatum, 39.6% to C. bijugum, 18.8% to C. pinnatifidium and finally 15.09% to C. anatolicum species. From these markers, 11.3% were found to be transferable to all Cicer species.  Transferable 6 polymorphic SSR primers had 19 alleles in 32 accessions with a mean of 3.16 alleles per locus. Polymorphic information content (PIC) values varied between 0.375 (Lc_MCu21) and 0.587 (Lc_MCu53) with an average value of 0.528. Transferable SSR markers were thought to provide significant contributions to inter and intra-specific studies in Cicer species.

45 ref

004889   SANTOSH H B, BHARADWAJ C, HEGDE V S, SAVITHA S, ANGADI C, KUMAR J (ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi- 110 010, Email: santoshgpb@gmail.com) : Relative potential of seed yield component traits as selection criteria in the segregating generations of a desi × kabuli cross of chickpea. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 473-8.

To assess the response to early generation selection in chickpea, a total of 150 F4 progenies derived from selection for total branches per plant, pods per plant, seeds per pod, seed yield per plant and 100-seed weight as independent selection criteria in F2 population of Pusa 362 (desi) × PG 0515 (kabuli) cross were evaluated along with their parents and unselected F2 bulk. The F2 population revealed high variability for all the yield components and transgressive segregation for all traits except 100-seed weight. Mean of the F4 families relative to the corresponding F2 plants was high, indicating effectiveness of early generation selection for all characters studied except branch number per plant. Significant correlated response for seed yield was also observed in F4. Based on realized response to selection as percentage of mean, realized heritability and realized generalized response values, we suggest utilization of pods per plant, seed yield per se and 100-seed weight as selection criteria in desi-kabuli introgression breeding for higher genetic gains.

34 ref

004814   JEBERSON M S, SHASHIDHAR K S, WANI S H, SINGH A K, DAR S A (Central Agricultural Univ, Imphal-795 004, Email: shabirhwani@skuastkashmir.ac.in) : Identification of stable lentil (Lens culinaris Medik) genotypes through GGE biplotand AMMI analysis for North Hill Zone of India. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 467-72.

In the present investigation with 24 lentil genotypes, first two Principal components revealed more than 90 per cent of the variability for the yield which indicates that G and GE together accounted for more than 10 per cent of total variability. Based on the present analysis of using GGE biplot models, considering simultaneous mean yield and stability, the genotypes G4, G12, G6, G13 and G2 were relatively stable in all the environments.The environment E1(Berthin) was discriminative (informative). This environment contributed most to the variability in grain yield. Hence, GGE biplot method is suitable to discriminate the genotypes based on their stable and instability nature across the environments.The AMMI analysis revealed that G13, G14, G12, G2, G23, G16 and G9 had wide adaptation and not be affected by the Genotype x environment interaction (GxE); hence mayyieldedgood across the environments. E2 and E3 could be considered as good selection sites for identifying broad based and most adaptable lentil genotypes. This study has clearly and by far aided in identification of stable and superior genotypes in graphical representation. 

4 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

004880   REN W, WANG Y, XU A, ZHAO Y (Chinese Academy of Sciences and Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling-712 100, Email: 454898044@qq.com) : Genome-wide identification and characterization of the Phenylalanine Ammonia-lyase (PAL) gene family in Medicago truncatula. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 461-6.

Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) catalyzes the rate-limiting step of phenylpropanoid biosynthesis in plants and supplies precursors for a variety of secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, lignins and stilbenes. The first draft of the full Medicago truncatula genome assembly has been released. However it is observed that, the PAL gene family from Medicago truncatula (MtPAL genes) has not been characterized in detail. In this study, a comprehensive analysis of the Medicago truncatula PAL gene family is presented, including chromosomal locations, phylogenetic analyses, gene structures, three-dimensional (3D) structures and expression patterns. Six Medicago truncatula PAL genes that encode PAL proteins were identified in the Medicago truncatula genome. It was shown that MtPAL genes are distributed on four chromosomes. Dynamic expression patterns of MtPAL genes were observed in different tissues and abiotic stresses, suggesting that MtPAL genes may play important roles in the regulation of development and stress responses in Medicago truncatula.

18 ref

004813   JEBERSON M S, SHASHIDHAR K S, SINGH A K (Central Agricultural Univ, Imphal- 795 004, Email: samuel8142@gmail.com) : Genetic variability, principal component and cluster analyses in black gram under Foot-hills conditions of Manipur. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 454-60.

Analysis of genetic variability, heritability, correlation, path analysis, principal component and cluster analysis was carried for 25 blackgram genotypes grown in the foothills of Manipur. The results showed that phenotypic coefficients of variability recorded were higher than the genotypic coefficients of variability, irrespective of traits, demonstrating the effect of environment thereon. The present study revealed that the heritability (bs) estimates were maximum (>50 %) for the traits such as days taken to attain the 50 % flowering, number of clusters/plant, number of pods/plant and 100 seed weight. The correlation and path analysis proved the selection of the yield attributes in blackgram based on the characters, viz., number of pods/plant and number of cluster/plants. The first three principal components, having the Eigen values more than 1, contributed 84.52 % towards variability among the 25 genotypes screened for quantitative traits. Based on the average linkage, 25 genotypes were grouped into  five (5) clusters.

4 illus, 7 tables, 17 ref

004882   RIALCH I, KALIA R, CHAUDHARY H K, KUMAR B, BHANDARI J C, SOOD V K (Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062, Email: indudehal10@gmail.com) : Comparative analysis of diversity based on morpho-metric and molecular markers in chickpea over different environments. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 447-53.

Ten morpho-agronomic traits and 80 random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) molecular markers were used to survey genetic diversity in 25 chickpea genotypes. Analysis of variance revealed significant variability among different genotypes for morpho-metric traits. The cluster analysis done using morpho-metric traits grouped 25 genotypes into seven and six clusters in Environment I (Env. I) and Environment II (Env. II), respectively. Three genotypes viz., ICCV-96904, HPG-17, ICCV-95503 and L-HR-1 belonging to diverse clusters were identified divergent and may use in heterosis breeding programme. Of 80 random RAPD markers, 25 were found polymorphic. Three major clusters were identified using 25 polymorphic RAPD markers. The genetic similarity coefficient among genotypes ranged from 0.57 to 0.91. The average polymorphic information content (PIC) for 25 RAPD markers ranges from 0.12 to 0.40. D²-statistic, RAPD analysis and study of genotypes performance revealed sufficient genetic diversity among chickpea genotypes which would be useful in future breeding programme. 

3 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

004926   TRIPATHI K, GORE P G, AHLAWAT S P, TYAGI V, SEMWAL D P, GAUTAM N K, RANA J C, KUMAR A (ICAR- National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi-110 012, Email: nkgautam54@gmail.com) : Cowpea genetic resources and its utilization: Indian perspective – A review. Legume Res 2019, 42(4), 437-46.

Cowpea is a multipurpose food legume of the tropics and is a crucial source of nutrition for rural and tribal communities in Africa and Asia. High protein content, nitrogen-fixing ability, drought tolerance and adaptability to challenging environment make cowpea, a promising climate resilient food legume of 21st century. This crop is grown as sole or mix-crop and in agro-forestry combinations for diverse uses as pulse, vegetable and fodder. Although cowpea has been used by indigenous people for centuries, its full potential has never been realized. Its production did not increase over the years due to narrow genetic base, biotic and abiotic stresses and non-adaptation to changing climate. Ultimate solution lies in its genetic resource which are the reservoir of useful genes. Lack of information on germplasm characterization and evaluation restricts the effective use of germplasm stored in the genebanks. Introgression of genes from closely related Vigna species and application of modern molecular tools may facilitate broadening the genetic base of cowpea. 

74 ref

004912   SREELEKSHMI S, SUMA B, MINIMOL J S, JOSEPH L (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur- 680 656, Email: suma.b@kau.in) : Evaluation of cocoa varieties for shoot induction under in vitro condition. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 197-200.

In vitro propagation in cocoa is a potential tool for the rapid multiplication of true to type plants. Single noded cuttings of 2-3 cm collected from the budded plants maintained in polyhouse were used as explants. The experiment was done in five varieties: CCRP 2, CCRP 6, CCRP 8, CCRP 15 and Scavina. The best surface sterilization of explants was achieved using Mancozeb 0.2 percent for 30 minutes followed by Cefotxim 0.1% for 10 minutes and then ethyl alcohol 70 percent for 3 minutes and mercuric chloride 0.1 percent for 5 minutes. Axillary bud sprouting was induced in basal Woody Plant Media (WPM) fortified with 2- isopentinyl adenine (2ip) and Indole-3-Acetic Acid (IAA). The period of single shoot induction from leaf axils was lowest (8.41) in variety CCRP 15 in media WPM + 2ip 1 ppm+IAA 0.02 ppm. Among the varieties, highest multiple shoot induction percentage (93.75%) was recorded in variety Scavina.

2 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

004848   NARAYANAN N, BIJU S, JOSEPH J (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur- 680 656, Email: nikhilnarayanan20@gmail.com) : Evaluation of rice hybrids in saline soils of Pokkali. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 191-6.

Field evaluation of rice hybrids in Pokkali tract was carried out during Kharif season of 2016-17, adopting a randomised block design. Days to fifty per cent flowering and maturity showed that all hybrids came to flowering early under saline conditions. Tall plants were observed in saline tolerant varieties Vyttila-6 and Ezhome-2 and short plants in IR-29. A high number of productive tillers was observed in CORH-3, while it was low in Sahyadri-2. Ezhome-2, IR-29 and Vyttila-6 had high number of spikelets per panicle. High seed setting percentage and long panicles were observed in Ezhome-2. Spikelet sterility was high in Sahyadri2 and low in Ezhome-2. High 1000 grain weight was observed in Ezhome-2, but it was low in IR-29. Based on visual scoring, Vyttila-6 was classified as highly tolerant and IR-29 as highly susceptible. Correlation studies indicated that grain yield per plant was positively correlated with productive tillers per plant and seed setting per cent, while it was found to be negatively correlated with sterility per cent. The hybrid CORH-3 was found to be moderately tolerant to salinity based on visual scoring and it produced the highest yield per plant indicating that this hybrid had high yield potential under saline condition and produced higher yield than saline tolerant traditional varieties.

2 tables, 35 ref

004765   ATHIRA G R, MENON M V, SINDHU P V, PRAMEELA P (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur- 680 656, Email: m_vmenon@yahoo.com) : Seed germination and emergence ecology of Monochoria vaginalis (Burm. f.) Kunth. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 186-90.

Monochoria vaginalis is a noxious herbaceous semi aquatic weed in the family Pontederiaceae, present in paddy fields throughout the rice growing areas of the world. A study was conducted to determine the effect of depth of burial, pH, salinity, flooding, light and temperature on germination of Monochoria vaginalis. Monochoria seeds germinated on soil surface, but not when placed below 2 cm depth. The germination was found to be higher in solutions of pH 6 and 7, but seeds did not germinate when immersed in buffered solutions of pH 4, 5, 8, and 9. Saline solutions with concentrations ranging from 25 to 250 mM NaCl inhibited the germination. Seeds kept in continuous dark condition failed to germinate irrespective of the temperature provided. Monochoria seeds germinated at a temperature of 38 ^oC in continuous light, and in alternate light and dark condition. Seed germination in Monochoria was significantly influenced by flooding depth and duration. Greater germination was obtained when seeds were kept in saturated soil condition and low flooding depth (i.e., less than 5 cm) for more than 4 days.

6 tables, 12 ref

004864   PHILIP P, SANKAR M, SREELATHA U, MINIMOL J S, ANUPAMA T V (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur- 680 656, Email: mini.sankar@kau.in) : Evaluation of cut rose varieties for commercial cultivation under humid tropics of Kerala. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 180-5.

A study was conducted at Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, to evaluate the performance of cut flower rose varieties and to select suitable varieties for commercial cultivation in Kerala. Three IIHR varieties viz., Arka Ivory, Arka Pride, and Arka Swadesh, and seven exotic rose varieties viz., Gold Strike, Noblesse, Revival, Taj Mahal, Corvette, Emma and Peach Avalanche were selected for the study. The varieties varied significantly with respect to various vegetative and floral parameters. The variety Taj Mahal was superior with respect to plant height (52.83 cm). Highest number of flowers were recorded in variety Revival (12.45) which was on par with Arka Ivory (11.38), Arka Swadesh (10.10) and Peach Avalanche (9.87). The variety Taj Mahal had highest number of petals (79.54). Vase life was highest for the varieties Revival (4.83 days), Taj Mahal (4.75 days) and Noblesse (4.75 days). The genetic estimates of heritability (%) and genetic advance (%) were found to be high for the characters fresh weight of flower, number of petals per flower and vase life, indicating that the expression of these characters were due to additive gene action. Varieties Taj Mahal and Noblesse, which were superior with respect to these characters, could be selected for further breeding programme.

6 tables, 10 ref

004916   SUMAN B M, RAJ S K (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellayani- 695 522, Email: sheeja.raj@kau.in) : Availability and uptake of nutrients as influenced by levels and schedule of application in upland rice. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 172-9.

Field experiment was conducted at Coconut Research Station Balaramapuram during Kharif season 2017 with an objective to evaluate the effect of nutrient levels and schedule of nutrient application on the nutrient uptake, nutrient availability and yield of upland rice. The experiment was laid out in factorial RBD with nutrient levels as first factor and schedule of nutrient application as second factor. Among the nutrients levels, NPK @ 120:30:60 kg ha^-1 (n₄ ) recorded the highest N and K uptake but it was statistically comparable with n₃ (90:30:45 kg ha^-1). However, P and Zn uptake was the highest in n3 (NPK @ 90:30:45 kg ha^-1) and it was significantly superior to other nutrient levels. Post-harvest soil nutrient status revealed that available N, P and K status and organic carbon content were the highest in the treatment NPK @120:30:60 kg ha^-1. Among the schedules of nutrient application, treatments with foliar application of 0.2 per cent zinc sulphate and 0.04 per cent sodium borate at 45 days after sowing (DAS) recorded higher availability of nutrients and uptake of nutrients by crop. Organic carbon content of soil was not significantly influenced by schedule of nutrient application. Grain yield and net returns were significantly influenced by nutrient levels and schedule of nutrient application. Application of N:P:K @ 90:30:45 kg ha^-1 applied as N in three equal splits, P as basal and K either in two equal splits or three equal splits along with foliar spray of 0.2 per cent zinc sulphate and 0.04 per cent sodium borate recorded the highest grain yield (3.25 t ha^-1) and net returns (35, 637 Rs ha^-1) .

6 tables, 16 ref

004896   SHAMNAD J (Iqbal Coll, Thiruvananthapuram- 695 563, Email: shamnadm.sc@gmail.com) : Mineral and nutritional potential of Clitoria ternatea L. variants as forage. J Trop Agric 2019, 57(2), 163-6.

Mineral and nutritional analysis for seven variants of Clitoria ternatea, including single blue, single white, single light blue, single violet, double blue, double pink and double white, collected from Jawaharlal Nehru Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Thiruvananthapuram was conducted in 2018. ‘Light blue’ variant contained highest protein (18.2 g) and considerable amounts of β-carotene (0.241 g), iron and phosphorus. The ‘violet’ variant possessed greatest amount of carbohydrate (7.1 g), and protein (14.1 g), and also good amounts of calcium, iron and phosphorus. The ‘double white’ variant also possessed high amount of carbohydrate (7.1g) and β-carotene (0.25 g), along with considerable amounts of protein, calcium and phosphorus. ‘Double pink’ was unique with highest content of β-carotene (0.45 g) and possessed high carbohydrate, and also calcium, iron and phosphorus. The relatively good growth performance of C. ternatea and the reasonable forage yield and quality, suggested that C. ternatea could be a good forage crop, and that four variants, viz., ‘light blue’, ‘violet’, ‘double white’ and ‘double pink’ were nutritionally good in one way or the other.

1 table, 17 ref

004815   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 2019, 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

004796   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 2019, 57(2), 132-9.

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 leaf spot 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 Banana Research 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 per cent 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

004911   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 2019, 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 oil and 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 (1500 bp) revealed that isolate I₁ was a relative of Bacillus pumilus. White pepper produced by the isolate of Bacillus pumilis 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

004828   KUMAR A, ARYA M, SINGH A, KUMAR S, PANDEY M, SINGH S K (Agronomy Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: akumar.dr2014@gmail.com) : Evaluation of mustard productivity under front line demonstration in Bundelkhand region. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 508-10.

Rani Lakshmi Bai Central Agricultural University, Jhansi conducted 40 front line demonstrations on mustard crop under the varieties - DRMR IJ-31, NRCHB -101, RH-749, NRCDR-2 and RH-406 during 2016–17. The critical reasons were identified in existing production technology through surveys and meetings with farmers. Sowing time, use of higher seed rate which resulted into high plant population, uneven plant population, more weeds, in balance dose of fertilizers and less use of plant protection measures were main causes of low productivity of oilseeds in district Jhansi. The results of study showed that the yield under demonstration plots was 12.82 q/ha as compared to 9.78 q /ha in traditional farmer practices plots. The results clearly indicate the positive effects of FLDs over the existing farmer’s practices. Benefit: cost ratio was also recorded higher under demonstrations against farmer practices during the year of experimentation.

3 tables, 7 ref

004849   NASAR J, ALAM A, KHAN M Z, AHMED B (Horticulture Dep, The Univ of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan, Email: jamalnasar554@gmail.com) : Charcoal and compost application induced changes in growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 492-5.

The utilization of organic fertilizers in farmlands to enhance crop productivity and soil health is increasing globally. Compost and charcoal obtained from the decomposition and slow pyrolysis (respectively) of plants and animals wastes. Here we evaluated the effect of charcoal and compost on the growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) at Agriculture Research Farm Peshawar, Pakistan during 2014-2015. Results showed that the application of compost and charcoal as sole or in combination significantly affected the yield and yield attributes of wheat. Data divulged that the maximum numbers of plant tillers (337 m^-2), number of productive tillers per plant (313 m^-2), number of grains per spike (56 spike^-1) and 1000 seeds weight (50.2 g) were produced by the combined application of compost and charcoal at 5+5 Mg ha^-1 while plant height (95.3 cm) was enhanced with the application of charcoal at 10 Mg ha^-1. The gain (4106.7 kg ha^-1) and biological yield (8473.3 kg ha^-1) was significantly increased with the compost application at the rate of 10 Mg ha^-1. These results proved that charcoal and compost can be used as organic fertilizers for boosting growth and yield performance of wheat under the agro-climatic conditions of Peshawar, Pakistan.

20 ref

004906   SINGH J, VARMA S K, BHATIA J N, RAJ L (Botany and Plant Physiology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: jnbhatia06@gmail.com) : Effect of different soil moisture regimes and salinity level on growth and yield in mustard. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 488-91.

Soil moisture stress and salinity resulted reduction in almost all the growth, yield and yield attributes in mustard var. RH-30. Salinity behaved similarly to soil moisture stress and the magnitude of reduction increased with the increase in their level accordingly. Chloride type of toxicity was found to be more harmful than that of sulphate toxicity. The results obtained in the present study suggested that maintenance of wetter irrigation under salinity could go a long way in maximizing the crop production in mustard.

13 ref

004781   CHEN B, FANG B, CHEN G, CHEN Q, DAI X, LIN Y, HONG X, ZHANG J, LIN Y (Fujian Academy of Forestry Sciences, Fuzhou Fujian- 350 012, Email: chenbihua.happy@163.com) : Preliminary afforestation effect of the mixed forest Betula alnoides in southern Fujian China. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 473-7.

The tissue-cultured seedlings of Betula alnoides were introduced to plant in Wanshiqing Area of Fujian Hua’an Jinshan National Forest Farm and Beijing Area of Fujian Longhai Jiulongling National Forest Farm. B.alnoides was mixed with Castanopsis hystrix with 4 patterns in Wanshiqing Area, and mixed with Cunninghamia lanceolata with three patterns in Beijing Area. After one year the sample plots were set and each tree in the plots was investigated. The results showed the effects of the mix afforestation patterns to the growth of B. alnoides were significant difference in the early stage. The optimal pattern was the pure forest of B. alnoides with the best tree height and DBH. It was possible that the pure forest crowns closed after one year and created a small forest climate. The termites, crickets, Anoplophora chinensis and Batocera lineolata were found damaging to the B. alnoide in Wanshiqing Area, but not in Beijing Area.

13 ref

004831   KUMAR R, YADAV R S, KUMAWAT A, RATHORE V S, YADAVA N D, NANGIA V (Agriculture Coll, Bikaner- 334 006, Email: amit.agron@gmail.com) : Evaluation of cropsyst model for yield and water productivity of chickpea. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 463-7.

An experiment entitled “Evaluation of CropSyst model for yield and water productivity of chickpea” was conducted on farmers field during rabi 2012-13 at village Mainawali in Hanumangarh district of Rajasthan. The soils of the area are alluvial and calcareous in nature formed under arid and semi arid climate. The soils of site are brown to grayish brown and dark gray in colour, besides being calcareous and slightly alkaline in reaction having 67.7, 11.1 and 21.0 % of sand, clay and silt, respectively in 0-15 cm soil depth with pH 8.09 and low soil organic matter content. The simulated and observed green area index differs with field measurements at all stages. The simulate yield of chickpea were closer to the observed yield. The total water applied in chickpea was 415 mm out of this 356.5 mm consumed in ET. Thus, ET constituted 86 % of total water applied and deep drainage constituted 12 % and rest 2 % stored as residual soil moisture.

23 ref

004910   SRAVIKA A, KENNEDY J S, RAJABASKAR D, RAJESWARI E (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore- 641 003, Email: sravikaachanta@gmail.com) : Field screening of greengram (Vigna radiata L.) genotypes for resistance against Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 458-62.

In the current study one hundred and seven greengram genotypes screened at Department of Pulses, TNAU, Coimbatore using AICRP pest susceptibility scale. It was observed that RME-16-3, RME-16-12, MLT-GG R-16-007, MLT-GG R-16-009, COGG 1319 (rabi-greengram) were highly resistant (HR) to Urdbean Leaf Crinkle Virus (ULCV). None of the greengram genotype is highly resistant in kharif season. Resistance in each case were associated with lower incidence, lower spread and milder symptoms relative to the susceptible cultivars. KEM 16-1, KEM 16-8, KEM 16-20, KME -33, MLT- GG K-16-01, MLT- GG K-16-05 (kharif-greengram) and RME-16-10, MLT-GG R-16-008 (rabi-greengram) were highly susceptible (HS). In susceptible cultivars of greengram, the disease is characterized by enlargement of trifoliate leaves and crinkling of the leaf lamina. However, severity of the symptoms varies in different cultivars. Early infected greengram plants showed complete sterility. The affected plants become stunted and gave a bushy appearance and no pods were formed in severely affected plants. Better understanding of resistance of genotypes will help in improvement of varieties resistant to viral diseases will certainly brighten the prospects of plant virus control in the coming decades.

7 ref

004871   RAHIL M H, MOUSA S A, SAFIEH D I A (Palestine Technical Univ- Kadoorie, Tulkarm, Palestine, Email: mrahail@yahoo.com) : Impact of saline water irrigation plus potassium sulphate application on growth and yield potential of pepper plants. Indian J Agric Res 2019, 53(4), 441-6.

The aim of this research was to investigate the impact of different saline water irrigation levels plus potassium sulphate (K₂SO₄) application on growth and yield potential of pepper plants. The treatments consisted of three saline water irrigation levels (2.5, 4 and 6 dS m^-1) and tab water as control. Each treatment was supplemented with different levels of K₂SO₄ at (zero, 2 and 4 gm K₂SO₄ per plant), except for the control. Plant observations were collected to evaluate plant length, fruit number per plant, fruit yield per plant, stem water potential, plant transpiration, photosynthetic rate and dry matter of shoots and roots. Results of this study indicated that K₂SO₄ application played a positive impact on alleviating salinity stress and improving plant growth parameters mainly under saline water irrigation levels of 2.5 and 4 dS m^-1 plus 2 gm K₂SO₄ compared to saline water irrigation treatments which were not supplemented with K₂SO₄.

7 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref