012032   Singh H;Pathak P;Manoj Kumar;Raghubanshi A S (Botany Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: hema.bhu@gmail.com) : Carbon sequestration potential of Indo-Gengetic agroecosystem soils. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 223-8.

Estimates the distribution of carbon in soil profile in agroecosystems of Indo-Gangetic Plains and explore factors which control this distribution. The soil texture was loam in the upper soil layers but changed to silt loam as the depth increased. Bulk density increased with soil depth, and had a negative relationship with soil organic C. A significant positive correlation between SOC and clay content was observed. About 69% of soil carbon in the profile was confined to the upper 40 cm soil layer where C stock ranged from 8.5 to 15.2 t C ha^-1. Authors estimate that the agricultural soils of Indo-Gangetic Plains may contain 12.4 to 22.6 t ha^-1 of organic C in the top 1 m soil depth. Since agricultural soils contain significantly lower C content than the soils of natural forest ecosystem in the same climate zone, management practices such as residue placement and reduced or no tillage are required to enhance C sequestration. A mix of agroforestry with crop fields may be an ideal option to enhance C sequestration in soils.

2 illus, 34 ref

012031   Shrestha B B;Jha P K;Kandel D R (Central Botany Dep, Tribhuvan Univ, Kirtipur, GPO Box 5275, Kathmandu, Nepal, Email: bhabashre@yahoo.com) : Reproductive ecology and conservation prospects of a threatened medicinal plant Curculigo orchioides Gaertn. in Nepal. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(1), 91-101.

Lack of biological information is a major constraint to the development of the medicinal plant sector in Nepal. Authors monitored phenology, population structure, and regeneration strategies of Curculigo orchioides, a threatened medicinal herb of tropical to subtropical Asia, for 1 year at five sites in the inner Terai, Central Nepal. Only 20 - 26% of mature individuals were in the reproductive phase during the phenologically most active months (June - July), and about 55% of flowering individuals developed fruits. Soil moisture, stored reserves, and biotic pressure appeared to govern phonological patterns. Fruiting frequency was high under conditions of a partially open canopy and a thin litter layer. Seeds showed physiological dormancy and germinated 10 - 12 months after dispersal in natural habitats. Clonal propagation from leaves was induced by mild mechanical damage, high soil moisture, and humidity. Low regenerative potential through sexual reproduction and high vulnerability to habitat disturbance appear to be the major constraints to maintaining natural populations of C. orchioides.

5 illus, 4 tables, 39 ref

012030   Sharma S (Botany Dep, M.D. College, Parel, Mumbai, Email: dr.somendra@rediffmail.com) : Litter fall pattern and its potential of nutrient return in neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) plantation in arid region of India. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 66-9.

Pattern of litter fall and its nutrient element content were investigated in 5 and 7 years old neem. plantation over two years: The total mean annual litter fail was 2976 kg/ha and 6060 kg/ha in 5 years old and 7 years old plantations, respectively. Of this litter fall, leaves constituted major portion of litter (<62> 96%). Litter fall was higher in February and March. The nutrient content in the litter fluctuated seasonally. The highest amount of nitrogen in litter was recorded in the month of August and lowest in March. The values of phosphorus, potassium and calcium in the litter generally was higher in February and March. On the mean basis, the annual nutritional amount of litter was 50.05 kg/ha, 1.105 kg/ha and 58.33 kg/ha of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and calcium, respectively in 5 years old neem plantation and 98.02 kg/ha, 32.02 kg/ha and 131.30 kg/ha, respectively of N,P,K and Ca in 7 years old plantation, respectively.

5 tables, 24 ref

012029   Shaaban A R (Plant protection Research Institute, Agricultural Research Center, Dokki, Giza, Egypt, Email: shaaban59@yahoo.com) : Field efficacy of parasitoid, Coccophagus scutellaris (Hymenoptera:Aphelinidae) and the predator, Exochomus flavipes (coleoptera:coccinellidae) against Pulvinaria psidii (Hemiptera: Coccidae) in Egypt. J biol Control 2011, 25(2), 85-91.

The aim of this study was to investigate the biological control of the green shield scale, Pulvinaria psidii Maskell (Hemiptera: Coccidae), on guava trees in Gahrbiya, Egypt, by the release of two of its natural enemies. For this purpose, 12 releases of larval Exochomus flavipes (Thunberg) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) and Coccophagus scutellaris (Dalman) (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae) were carried out on guava trees between May 2007 and April 2008. These two beneficials were reared under defined climatic conditions (25-27°C and 65-75%) in a laboratory. A significant reduction in the number of P. psidii populations was recorded as compared with control plots. Six months after the release of E. flayipes, the average populations of P. psidii decreased from 1897/30 to 475/30 leaves in the treated plot. With regard to C. scutellaris, the number of parasitized P. psidii nymphs in the treated plots increased from 2% to 54% as compared to the control plots. The present study indicated that C. scutellaris and E. flavipes are potential biocontrol agents of P. psidii on guava.

012028   Senthil K;Kamaraj M (P.G. and Research Dep of Botany, Jamal Mohamed College, Tiruchirappalli-620 020) : Direct shoot regeneration from inter nodal explants of Mentha viridis L. Int J pharm Sci Res 2012, 3(4), 1101-3.

Adventitious bud regeneration from internode explants of Mentha viridis L. was achieved shoots from nodal segments grown in vitro, were cut in to pieces and uses as sources of explants. Organogenesis was induced from internodal explants cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different combinations of 6, Benzylaminopurine (BAP) and Kn under 16 hr photoperiod and at a temperature of 22 ±2 C°. The types of explants markedly influenced organogenesis and growth of the regenerated shoots. The regeneration frequencies were high in intermodal explants. The percentage of responsive in internodal explants producing from 20 to more than 91. BAP 3.5 mg/l induced the highest regeneration rate 91% and also get results of KN 3mg/l, regeneration rate 81 after 20d of culture. Yielding 36.7±1.14 shoots per responsive internode explants. The regenerated shoots from the best induction treatment were transferred to a fresh medium without plant growth regulators for 30d. Finally the elongated shoots were separated and transferred on to MS medium supplemented with (IBA, 1.5 mg/l). Rooted plantlets (90%) were successfully transferred to soil in cups with an 80% survival rate.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

012027   Saxena N;Shrivastava P N;Saxena R C (Botany Dep, S.S.L. Jain P.G. College, Vidisha-464 001) : Preliminary physico-phytochemical study of stem bark of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. - a medical plant. Int J pharm Sci Res 2012, 3(4), 1071-75.

Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. is a plant of family Apocynaceae and has a great medicinal importance. It is widely used by tribal people to treat various diseases and ailments. Deals with the organoleptic and preliminary physico-phytochemical studies of the stem bark of the plant. The organoleptic study was done according to the W.H.O. guidelines for medicinal plants. The physicochemical parameters viz. loss on drying, ash values and extractive values were calculated. Soxhlet extraction of the powdered plant material was done with 80% ethanol and then partitioned with petroleum ether, ethyl acetate and n-butanol subsequently. The percentage yields of different solvent fractions were calculated and then they were subjected to preliminary phytochemical screening which indicated the presence of alkaloids, carbohydrates, tannins, terpenoids, saponins, flavonoids, steroids and fixed oils and fats.

4 tables, 13 ref

012026   Sanjeev Kumar;Sharma Y P (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu, Jammu & Kashmir-180 006, Email: sanjeevkoul222@gmail.com) : Two species of Lactarius from Jammu and Kashmir. Indian J Mushroom 2011, 29(1), 44-7.

Two taxa in the genus Lactarius from Bhadarwah (Doda district) are reported for the first time from the state of Jammu and Kashmir. Lactarius vellereus (Fr.) Fr., and L. volemus (Fr.) Fr., were found growing in the coniferous forests area.

1 illus, 9 ref

012025   Sahoo K P;Kasera P K (Laboratory of Plant Ecology, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 033, Email: jnvupkkasera@yahoo.co.in) : Seasonal variations affecting plant pigments of arid zone medicinal plants. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 47-50.

This communication presents experimental findings conducted during different seasons (rainy, winter and summer) to find out the affect of seasonal variability on leaf pigments of four selected arid zone medicinal plants. Leaf pigments, viz. chl. a, b, total chlorophylls and carotenoids were quantified after harvesting the plants from wild habitat so that the maximum chemical substances of varied composition can be obtained for the phytochemical examination. Results revealed maximum leaf pigments during winter season in all the selected species. It is therefore concluded that the plants should be harvested during winter season for procuring maximum quantity of plant pigments.

1 table, 3 ref

012024   Saha M (Botany Dep, B.N. Bandodkar College of Science, Thane (W)-400 601) : Carica papaya L: an important neutraceutical fruit plant. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 50-2.

Carica papaya L. is well known for its food and nutritional value since long. The medicinal value of the fruit and other plant part is also well known in folk medicine. Raw fruit is a source of papain which is used as pharmaceutical and industrial product. In the present review collective information on Carica papaya L. an important neutraceutical fruit plants has been discussed.

31 ref

012023   Rawat S;Upreti D K;Singh R P (Environmental Sciences Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow-226 025, Email: upretidk@rediffmail.com) : Estimation of epiphytic lichen litter fall biomass in three temperate forests of Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, India. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 193-200.

Lichen plays an important role in nutrient cycling through litter fall. Currently there is no biomass estimation available on the lichen litter fall from temperate forest of Himalayas. Hence the lichens fallen on the forest floor from canopy and main branches at an altitude in and around 3000 m were studied using 10 randomly-placed, 1 m x 1 m quadrats at each of the three major forest types of the Himalayas in Ghangaria (Valley of Flowers), Chopta and Kanchula Khark Musk Deer Park forest area (Kedarnath Wild Life Sanctuary) of Chamoli district in Uttarakhand. The lichen litter fall biomass was recorded in September 2007. Lichen biomass was highest in the Quercus semecarpifolia forest (Oak) of the Chopta area, followed by Acer oblongum forest (mixed forest) in Kanchula Kharkh Musk Deer Park and Pinus wallichiana, Taxus baccata, Abies pindrow (coniferous forest) of Ghangharia (Valley of Flowers), with values of 1.32 g m^-2, 0.71 g m^-2 and 0.41 g m^-2, respectively. It was also observed that foliose lichen (Parmelia type) group showed maximum lichen litter fall biomass followed by fruticose (Usnea type) in all the three forest stands.

2 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

012022   Rawat M;Vasistha H B;Manhas R K;Negi M (Forest Ecology and Environment Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun-248 006, Uttarakhand, Email: megha.fri@gmail.com) : Sacred forest of Kunjapuri siddhapeeth, Uttarakhand, India. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 219-21.

Sacred forests are a new frontier for interdisciplinary research and are relevant for biodiversity conservation. However, several sacred forests are experiencing failure of legal protection in guaranteeing their integrity and conservation. To bridge the gap between the needs of local people and to safeguard the health of these sacred places, immediate steps are called for. The present study was conducted in Kunjapuri Siddhapeeth, which is one of the 52 Siddhapeeths of India. A total of 239 plant species belonging to 78 families and 207 genera were collected from the study area. Out of these, nine species are considered threatened and three species vulnerable. Presently, the health of this sacred forest is deteriorating under constant anthropogenic pressures. These disturbances are also a threat for various rare, vulnerable and threatened plants. These forests are maintained and managed by the forest department and the locals are not co-operating. Therefore, the government should either promote community-based conservation of biodiversity in these forests or their administration should be handed over to temple authorities.

1 table, 6 ref

012021   Rama Bhat P;Kaveriappa K M (Post Graduate Biotechnology Dep, Alva's College, Moodbidri-574 227, Email: bhat_pr@rediffmail.com) : Rhizoplane mycoflora of some species of myristicaceae of the Western Ghats, India. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 163-75.

Rhizoplane mycoflora of Gymnacranthera farquhariana, Knema attenuata, Myristica dactyloides, M. fatua var. magnified and M. malabarica was studied by root washing and root plating methods. The root samples along with adhering soil were collected from the rhizosphere regions of each tree species in three seasons - summer, monsoon and post-monsoon - over a period of two years from the forests of Gersoppa, Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka. Soil physico-chemical properties, including moisture, temperature, pH, electrical conductivity, and organic matter and total N, P, K, Ca, Cu, Fe, Mn, Mg, Na and Zn content, were also analyzed. A total of 37 species of fungi were isolated from the rhizoplane region of five tree species. S0rensen's index showed the similarity between the mycoflora of rhizoplane regions to range from 34.6 to 54.6%. Among the five tree species, a maximum of 24 fungal species were isolated from the rhizoplane of K. attenuata and M. fatua var. magnifica, followed by 22 species in M. dactyloides and M. malabarica, and 20 species in G. farquhariana. Nine species were common to the rhizoplane of all the five tree species and nine species were observed in the rhizoplane of only one of the five tree species. The maximum number of fungal species was recorded during monsoon in all plant species and the minimum during post-monsoon and summer. The physico-chemical properties of the rhizosphere soil differed among plant species in different seasons. The dominant genera in terms of number of fungal species were Penicillium and Aspergillus. The rhizoplane fungal population for each plant species in different seasons was correlated with physico-chemical properties of respective seasons, and found that it was significant in some of the seasons or for some parameters only.

2 illus, 9 tables, 31 ref

012020   Rajiv Ranjan;Singh N K (Botany Dep, M.l.K. (P.G.) College, Balrampur-271 201, Email: singhnarendraonovember@gmail.com ) : Changes in phosphorus and nitrogen content in pumpkin mosaic virus infected Cucurbita pepo L.. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 95-8.

Effect of three strains of Pumpkin Mosaic Virus (PMC) on the phosphorus content ofCucurbitapepo (family-Cucurbitaceae) plants indicated that total and organic phosphorus levels were higher in virus infected plants as compared to healthy control, but inorganic phosphorus was low. Organic phosphorus level increases due to more synthesis of virus nucleic acid. Inorganic phosphorus level decreases because it is used by virus in the synthesis of nucleic acid. The nitrogen content in leaf, increased in the samples infected PMC followed by PMM and PMVB. But in stem the highest increase was found in plant infected with PMVB followed by PMM and PMC.

2 tables, 26 ref

012019   Rai B;Shukla S;Singh M (Mathematics Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: smadhu_math@rediffmail.com) : Overview on the mathematical approach of allelopathy. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 31-6.

Amongst all the disciplines involved in allelopathic research, mathematical modelling is making increasingly significant contributions. This article discusses the important roles that mathematical modelling is playing in allelopathic research, specifically the dose-response phenomenon in allelopathic research and its applications in characterizing allelochemicals from living plants, in residue allelopathy and in data analysis. Mathematical modelling can increase our understanding of allelopathy, highlight directions for future research and provide a theoretical framework and insights into the mechanisms of allelopathy phenomena. The contributions that mathematical modeling can make to this discipline are further illustrated.

29 ref

012018   Raguchander T;Saravanakumar D;Balasubramanian P (Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Tamil Nadu, Email: balasubrap@hotmail.com) : Molecular approaches to improvement of biocontrol agents of plant diseases. J biol Control 2011, 25(2), 71-84.

Biological control holds out the prospect of an attractive proposition against plant diseases. Hitherto, a host of microorganisms have been identified as biocontrol agents while only a few have been able to be successfully commercialized. A major difficulty faced while translating the efficacious biocontrol agents into merchandise was that the efficacy of the developed strains was largely unstable under diverse environmental conditions in which the finished product of organismal origin was to tread before reaching the farmer's field. To add to the problem, desirable properties of a given biocontrol agent are not usually determined by a single attribute; on the contrary desirable biocontrol behavior of the agent is decided by its competitive ability, nature of antibiosis involved, lysis of the target pathogen and induced systemic resistance of the host plant, if any. Yet, a comprehensive understanding of the nature of genes encoding various observable biocontrol mechanisms of action and their putative role at molecular level is still elusive. A detailed characterization of gene(s) encoding biocontrol properties of a given biocontrol agent with respect to individual mechanism of action is a sine qua non for further improvement of biocontrol agents with a view to getting the most out of the individual biocontrol agent. With the advent of molecular biology, several approaches have been made towards achieving the following goals: i) Identification and characterization of genes encoding the specific biocontrol property against a given pathogen and ii) Designer biocontrol strains with potential genes responsible for superior biocontrol properties This review tries to focus on the recent developments on the above areas while bringing out a list of promising biocontrol agents so far worked upon with respect to individual target diseases of major crop plants.

012017   Raghav A;Kasera P K (Laboratory of Plant Ecology, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 033, Email: jnvupkkasera@yahoo.co.in) : Response of soil mixture ratios and sowing depths on seed germination behaviour in Grewia villosa under nursery conditions. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 63-6.

Grewia villosa Willd. (family-Tiliaceae) is an important medicinal plant of the Indian arid zone. The present investigation was conducted to evaluate the response of seed germination of G. villosa on soil mixture ratios and sowing depths under nursery conditions. Results revealed that seeds sown at 0.5 cm depth with 1:2:2 soil mixture ratios of sand: clay: FYM exhibited maximum values of seedling growth parameters and above and underground biomass as compared to other treatments.

3 tables, 11 ref

012016   Meng J;Lu Y;Lei X;Liu G (Institute of Forest Resource Information Techniques, Chinese Academy of Forestry, Beijing-100 091, P.R. China, Email: ylucaf@yahoo.cn) : Structure and floristics of tropical forests and their implications for restoration of degraded forests of China's Hainan Island. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 177-91.

Compared vegetation structure and floristics among degraded tropical secondary forests on China's Hainan -Island, representing two successional stages (SF1 and SF2), and a primary forest to provide information that would support restoration process. We observed no significant differences in total tree density among the forest types, but the total basal area was significantly higher in primary forest. Stem size class distribution differed significantly between the primary and secondary forests, but the two secondary forests did not differ significantly. SF1 was dominated by Macaranga denticulata and SF2 by Cratoxylon ligustrinum, whereas the primary forest by Engelhardtia, chrysolepis. The Simpson and Shannon diversity indices were greater for primary forest than for secondary forests. Jaccard's similarity coefficient and the Morisita-Horn index indicated greater similarity between the two secondary forests and the lowest similarity between SF1 and the primary forest. Understanding the structural and floristic characteristics of different successional stages is important for managing forest restoration process.

5 illus, 5 tables, 49 ref

012015   Lindner A (Systematic Botany and Functional Biodiversity Dep, Leipzig-Institute for Biology I Univ, 04103 Leipzig, Germany, Email: alindner@uni-leipzig.de) : Small scale structure of forest stands in the Atlantic rainforest- notes on understorey light fluctation. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 139-50.

The effect of small scale structural dynamics of forest stands and their canopies on spatiotemporal heterogeneity of the understorey light regime was assessed in this study. Forest structure and woody species composition in combination with canopy structure parameters and photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) were measured in three investigation plots. Sampling took place during two periods in 2004 and 2005 to check on inter-annual differences of canopy conditions and light availability. All plots differed considerably in species composition and high α-diversity was recorded. Forest structure and canopy openness differed between plots. No differences in leaf area estimations and photon flux density were found during the same sampling period. Inter-annual differences were identified for leaf area index and canopy openness, but not in conjunction. On the other hand, inter-annual differences in photon flux density were only identified in combination with significant canopy openness changes. Our study confirmed hemispherical photography and quantum sensor based PPFD measurement as a valid tool for rapid assessment approaches regarding canopy structure and their spatiotemporal heterogeneity and the effect on understorey PPFD fluctuations. The variability and heterogeneity of canopy structure may help to explain the impact on stand dynamics and the reduced importance of classic gaps in communities identified for some rainforests.

3 illus, 3 tables, 59 ref

012014   Kharat G T (NO, Botany Moreshwar Arts Science & Commerce College, Bhokardan Dist. Jalna, Maharashtra-431 114, Email: drgtkharat@yahoo.com) : Myxomycetes of Pachmarhi hills (India)- VII: the genus Comatricha preuss. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 63-5.

During the floristic study of the Myxomycetes of this region author come across a number of myxomycetes species. Present paper deals with the seventh report in this series, the genus Comatricha preuss is being represented by four species i.e. Comatricha laxa, Roth., Comatricha nigra (Pers.) Schroet., Comatricha pulcheila (C. Bab). Rost., and Comatricha tyophoides (Bull). Rost. The Genus Comatricha is closely related to Stemonitis. These two genera are represented on the character of capillitial surface net. It is absent in Comatricha and present in Stemonitis. Thus, the genus Comatricha is represented from Indian flora by sixteen species. In the present study four species of the genus are being illustrated and described for the first time from this region.

4 illus, 20 ref

012013   Joshi B;Tiwari A P;Ansari1 A A;Pal K (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002, Email: bhavanas_joshi@yahoo.com) : Ex-situ conservation of medicinal plants at G.B. Pant University of agriculture and technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, india. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 83-93.

Deals with the medicinal uses of 190 plants species belonging to 163 genera and 73 families of medicinal plants grown and conserved in Medicinal Plant Resources and Development Centre (MRDC) at G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, India. The species are arranged alphabetically (Table 1) as per correct botanical name with authority followed by family and vernacular name, habit and their part specific medicinal uses. The work will serve as checklist of the medicinal plants conserved at MRDC, Pantnagar and a ready reference for further researches in the field of conservation of medicinal plants.

1 table, 11 ref

012012   Jadhav D M;Gawal D U (Post Graduate Botany Dep, N.E.S. Science College, Nanded, Maharashtra, Email: dmj_jdm@yahoo.co.in) : Isolation and characterization of Aureobasidium pullulans (de bary) a phylloplane yeast of Sandal and Guava. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 57-9.

Aerial surfaces of higher plants specially leaves growing under natural conditions are usually covered with large and varied population of fungi. Most commonly isolated yeast and yeast like organisms on the phylloplane of Santalum album and Psidium guajava is Aureobasidium pullulans. The number of this yeast varies with leaf age and leaf type. The experiments were carried out to isolate the A. pullulans by leaf wash method using yeast extract sucrose medium. Total four isolates were found in phylloplane of Santalum album and Psidium guajava. The nature of colony and morphology of fungus was studied and found that white creamy colonies observed initially which were turning blackish velvety with ageing. The colony diameter were found to increased 0.5 to 1.0 centimeter per day. The colony initially smooth and eventually become covered with slime. When observed under light microscope numerous yeast cells were seen, hyphae looks tike smooth and thin walled. The conidia were straight and chlamydospore were thick walled with lobed chains.

8 illus, 22 ref

012011   Gurav U P;Mali J P;Pawar D M;Desai V S;Kadam J J (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli-415 712) : Isolation and germination of various entomopathogenic fungi. J Pl Dis Sci 2012, 7(1), 92-4.

The present investigation was made to Isolate and identify the entomopathogenic fungi from Pune district and their germination percentage. The entomopathogenic fungi viz., Beauveria bassiana - B.ba 127 and Metarrhizium anisopliae - Ma, 124 were isolated from College of Agriculture, Beauveria bassiana - B.ba 129 and Metarrhizium anisopliae - M.a, 121 from Sinhagadh and Nomuraea rileyi - N.r. 114 from Wagholi. Beauveria bassiana (B.ba 127) showed the highest germination of 92.30 per cent on Potato dextrose Agar. Metarrhizium anisopliae showed the highest germination on Malt Extract Peptone Agar (92.30%} and Nomuraea rileyi showed the highest germination on Saboraud Malt Extract Peptone Agar (83.30%).

2 tables, 5 ref

012010   Gosavi M C;Bagool R G (Botany Dep, SIES College, Sion (w), Mumbai-22) : Development of carrier based starter cultures of cellulolytic inoculum: a novel technology. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 90-3.

Use of carrier materials is not a new concept, conventionally used carriers, viz., peat, lignite, sterile soil, etc. require some financial inputs as well as their availability can pose a problem in future. An acute need of development of suitable carrier materials for preparation of cellulolytic inoculants has been felt since the past two decades in India, In the present investigation, six agro industrial wastes (residues), viz. cajanus percarp, groundnut shells, pea pericarp, safflower shells, soybean testa and sunflower shells were selected as carrier materials for the development of starter cultures of cellulolytic inoculum for composting. Out of six agro industrial residues studied, cajanus pericarp and safflower shells ranked superior ones with respect to rich vegetative growth and perithecial development of inoculum. Pea pericarp, safflower shells and sunflower shells also showed moderate vegetative growth and perithecial development. So, all these residues can therefore by promoted as suitable, novel and indigenous carrier material for starter cultures of cellulolytic inoculum for composting.

22 tables, 24 ref

012009   Deshmukh A;Saler R S (Botany Dep, K.K. Wagh Senior College, Amrutdham, Nashik, Email: arohirai@rediffmail.com) : Biodiversity and rhizosphere microfungi of Jowar (Sorghum vulgare Pers.) with special reference to fungicide Aliette and Calyxin. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 82-4.

Use of pesticides has become an integral and economically essential part of agriculture many pesticides are directly introduced into agricultural lands for management of soil born diseases. Some part of the pesticide compounds administrated an spray or dust ultimately reach into the soil and run off or drift and thus influence the microbial balance of soil. Therefore study of tolerance of pesticides by microorganism has got much practical importance in maintaining the survival of microflora in soil. In order to understand tolerance of Aliettc and Calyxin present study undertaken. These fungicides are generally used in the management of diseases of jowar. Aliette and calyxin were used and tolerance was studied by serial soil dilution plate technique. Qualitatively, at final tolerant concentration there was about 4 fold reduction in fungal population of rhizosphere and about 2 fold reduction in soil of Aliette and about 2 fold reduction in soil of Aliette and 5 and 3 fold reduction in rhizosphere and soil respectively in Calyxin. Although 19 microfungi were recorded of those 16 occurred in rhizosphere and 08 occurred in soil of Aliette, while for calyxin 19 microfungi recorded, 17 were from the rhizosphere and 15 from soil. Microfungi, were shown different tolerance limit to these fungicides.

4 tables, 12 ref

012008   Deshmukh A;Saler R S (Botany Dep, K.K. Wagh College, Amrutdham, Nashik, Email: arohirai@rediffmail.com) : In vitro tolerance of bavistin by rhizosphere microfungi of Jowar (Sorghum vulgare Pers.). Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 80-1.

Tolerance of Bavistin by rhizosphere microfungi of Sorghum vulgare Pers. was studied. Bavistin is used in the control of powdery mildew, leaf spot diseases caused by pathogenic fungi of jowar in India. Tolerance of Bavistin by rhizosphere microfungi of jowar was studied by modified food poisoning soil dilution technique (FPSD). Fungal population were observed up to 1500 μg/ml in the Plates. There was 3 fold reduction in the population. A total of 20 species of fungi were recorded. Species like Alternaria sp., Aspergillus carbonarum, A. flavus A.niger, Mucor plumbago,Trichoderma viridae, Fusarium oxysporum showed their resistance at 1500 μg/ml.

2 tables, 10 ref

012007   Baviskar R N;Suryawanshi N S (Botany Dep, ICLES'M.J. College, Vashi, Navi Mumbai, Email: baviskar_ramesh@yahoo.co.in ) : Application of microorganisms in the biological control of Penicillium expansum. Bionano Front 2013, 6(1), 60-2.

Sixteen microorganisms were tested antagonistically to carbendazim resistant (Pe-EMS-10) of P. expansum (blue mould of apple) when tested individually and mixture with carbendazim fungicide. In vitro Bacillus subtilis gave higher inhibition zone (28.00) and others also inhibited the growth of P. expansum. In vivo the culture filtrates of sixteen microorganisms were tested individually and in mixture with carbendazim resistant (Pe-EMS-10) of P. expansum. Bacillus subtilis gave significant PCE individually and followed by other microbes PCE ranged from (0.56-64.89) while in mixture with carbendazim the highest PCE showed Bacillus subtilis and followed by other microbes ranged from (13.10-78.00). In mixture with carbendazim the PCE increased as compared to individual. Bacillus subtilis. Pseudomonas fluorescens, and Trichoderma harzianum and T. viride have more effective for the controlling of Penicillium expansum.

2 tables, 17 ref

012006   Bakthavatsalam N;Ravi G;Bhagat D;Tondon P L (NO, National Bureau of Agriculturally Important Insects, Post Bag No. 2491, H.A. Farm Post, Bellary Road, Hebbal, bangalore-560 024, Karnataka) : Electrophysiological response of Tetrastichus schoenobii Ferriere (Hymenoptera:Eulophidae), an egg parasitoid of rice stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) (Lepidoptera:Crambidae) to the extracts of plants collected from rice ecosystem. J biol Control 2011, 25(2), 98-102.

Tetrastichus schoenobii Ferriere is an efficient egg parasitoid on rice yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker). The electrophysiological response of females of T. schoenobii to the extracts of plants collected from rice fields was studied under laboratory conditions. The highest response was noticed to the host plant of the pest, S. incertulas and honey solution. Response was also noticed to the flowers of Hyptis suaveolens, a common weed in rice fields, mostly by female parasitoids to the flowers of the non-crop vegetation.

012005   Aslam M;Reshi Z A;Siddiqi T O (NO, State Forest Institute, Srinagar-190 001, Email: zreshi@yahoo.com) : Genetic divergence in half-sib progenies of Pinus wallichiana A.B. Jackson plus trees in the Kashmir Himalaya, India. Trop Ecol 2011, 52(2), 201-8.

Studies were undertaken to assess the extent of genetic divergence among the progenies of eighty-eight plus trees selected from the entire distributional range of Pinus wallichiana in Kashmir Himalaya at the age of one year to identify the promising selections for use in future improvement programmes. The study resolved the eighty eight plus tree progenies into ten clusters using Mahalanobis D² statistics. Cluster IV was largest with 21 genotypes (plus tree progenies). The inter-cluster distance was highest (9.901) between cluster IX and VII. Clusters mean indicated that cluster VIII was the best in respect of seedling height (12.82 cm), collar diameter (9.62 mm), needle length (5.76 cm), needle diameter (0.38 mm) and number of needles per seedling (17.44). The superiority of cluster VIII allows use of Arthnari and Seer plus tree progenies for operational plantation purposes.

1 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

012004   Anand R K;Singh R B (Ethnobotanical Lab, Graduate Botany Dep, M.S. (PG) College, Motihari-845 401, Email: dr.rkanand@rediffmail.com) : Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria): the historic plant of Indian freedom movement needs cultivation resurgence. Bioherald 2012, 2(1), 15-18.

Indigo (Indigofera tinctoria, family - Fabaceae), commonly called as Neel in Hindi is one of the economically important blue-dye yielding plants found to be best suited for mass cultivation in northern Bihar state of India as a cash crop. This plant is historically associated with the Satyagrah Movement in Champaran, popularly known as the Indigo-revolt, which was actually a peasant movement of indigo farmers against the indigo planters that arose in Bengal in 1859. The back stage of the revolt goes back half a century when the indigo plantation act was established. After the courageous fight by the Sepoy for independence in 1857 in February-March 1859 the farmers refused to sow a single seedling of indigo plant. The strength of the farmers' resolutions was dramatically stronger than anticipated from a community victimized by brutal treatment for about half a century. Most importantly it was a revolt of both the major religious groups of farmers in Bengal and Bihar, notably a farmer Haji Molla of Nischindipur said that he would "rather beg than sow indigo". Since the farmers were in no possession of any types of arms, therefore, it was totally a nonviolent resistance. I. tinctoria morphologically appears typically small shrubby plant with profuse branching and pinkish red flowers. The plant has a potential to become a huge source of income for the region because of its high medicinal properties, role in improving Nitrogen deficiency in soil and it being a source of natural dye of commerce. The circumstances prevail for resurgence of cultivation of indigo in Champaran as the agro-climatic conditions are still well suited for its luxuriant growth.

1 illus, 16 ref

012003   Acharya R;Saify T (Botany Dep, Career College, Bhopal) : Effect of UV radiation on phenotypical plasticity and changeability of Scenedesmus ovalternus chodat. Ultra Scient phys Sci-Sect B 2011, 23(3), 571-8.

Environment is always kept on changing over a period due to the changing climatic and physiographic factors. These factors influence marked effects upon the genetic and phenotypic machinery that brought about by various intracellular and extracellular factors which operating throughout the life history of organisms. These factors elicit genetic responses that ultimately manifest themselves through a morphological and physiological modification of the phenotypes. The genus Scenedesmus is well known for its extreme phenotypical variability and plasticity. This study has revealed the phenotypic response of Scenedesmus ovalternus to UV exposures. The 15 min. of UV exposure cause decrease in cell width and cell length from their definite cell dimension. As the time of exposure increases the cell dimension decreases, after 90 min. of continuous UVR treatment the Scenedesmus cell length 12.2 μm and width 5.5 μm were measured which extensively reduced from 16.5 μm x 9.5 μm. These findings clearly signify the difference in Scenedesmus ovalternus morphology after the long term exposure of UVR and the mean cell length 14.7 μm, cell width 7.7 μm were measured with observation of S. ovalternus colonies and cells shrinkage. The number of cells per colonies was fixed during the course of experiment but the chlorophyll 'a' content and cell dimension was greatly reduced.

1 illus, 1 table, 38 ref

014216   Zolfaghari B;Iravani S (Pharmacognosy Dep, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Isfahan Medical Scie, Isfahan, Iran, Email: zolfaghari@pharm.mui.ac.ir) : Essential oil constituents of the bark of Pinus pinaster from Iran. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2012, 15(3), 348-51.

Chemical composition of essential oil from the bark of Pinus pinaster obtained by hydrodistillation was investigated by GC-MS. Seventeen compounds representing 95.8% of the oil, were identified. Mono- and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, especially α-pinene (63.9%), β-caryophyllene (14.3%), and junipene (7.5%) were the main components in the oil of P. pinaster bark.

1 table, 20 ref

014215   Yumnam J Y;Bhuyan S I;Tripathi O P;Khan M L (Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute iof Science and Technology (Deemed Un, Nirjuli-791 109) : Ethno-medicinal plants used by Adi tribe of east siang district, Arunachal Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(2), 369-77.

East Siang district Pradesh is mainly inhabited by Adi tribe. Majority of them live in remote villages and depend on shifting cultivation and forests for their food and other requirements. They have developed traditional using plant resources for treatment of various ailments. For this paper, data were collected through field survey and personal interviews with local aged people between 30-70 yrs of both sexes using standard questionnaires. Altogether 93 traditionally used medicinal plants belonging to 73 genera and 46 families are discussed briefly with particular emphasis on their scientific names, vernacular names, family, part used and medicinal values.

2 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

014214   Yadav M;Khan K K (Botany Dep, Shibli National College, Azamgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Email: manisha.mgs@gmail.com) : Some ethnomedicinal perceptions of tribal communities of Rewa district, Madhya Pradesh. Indian J scient Res 2012, 3(2), 145-8.

Rewa is a rich in ethnic and biological diversity since ancient times. Several tribal communities like Kol, Gond, and Mawasi inhabit Rewa region and utilize wide variety of plant resources for food, fooder, fiber, medicine etc. An ethnobotanical study among the tribal communities of Rewa has been carried out during 2007-2009. In the study, ethnomedicinal uses of 28 plant species have been reported. The plant parts most commonly used in the treatment of various diseases are root, leaves, whole plant and bark. Mode of drug administration in different ailments are discussed.

12 ref

014213   Vishwanatha;Murugan R;Rao R R (Biotechnology Div, Manipal Life Sciences Centre, Planetarium Complex, Manipal-576 104, Email: rao.cimap@gmail.com) : Extended distribution of two little known herbaceous Phyllanthus species in India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(1), 206-9.

Two species of Phyllanthus L., viz. P. kozhikodlanus Siv. & Mani. from Karnataka and Megha-laya and P. scabrifolius Hook. f. from Andhra Pradesh are reported as extended distributions in India. Previous records regarding the occurrence of these species are discussed. Key to the species, detailed description and distributional details are provided.

8 ref

014212   Vijayan A;Sudhakar J V;Sebastian Rajasekaran C (Botany Dep, Bishop Heber College, Tiruchirappalli-620 017, Email: vijayan.arumuga@gmail.com) : Rediscovery of Elaeocarpus blascoi Weibel (Elaeocarpaceae) from Palni hills of Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(3), 618-20.

Elaeocarpus blascoi Weibel (Elaeocarpaceae) a very rare and endemic, considered as probably extinct species, rediscovered after a long lapse of 43 years from Palni Hills of Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. A detailed description, illustration and its conservation measures arc provided.

1 illus, 10 ref

014211   Varghese M C;Sunilkumar T;Antony V T (PG Botany Dep, Deva Matha College, Kuravilangad, Kerala, Email: varghesemcklcy@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical investigations among the Ulladan tribes of Alappuzha district in Kerala state, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(3), 449-54.

This paper reports traditional uses of 57 plants used by Ulladan tribes of Alappuzha district of Kerala. Alappuzha district is a sandy strip of land intercepted by lagoons, rivers and canals. There are neither mountains nor hills in Alappuzha, except some scattered hillocks lying between Bharanikkavu and Chengannur blocks in the eastern portion of the district. The only tribal group inhabiting in this district is Ulladans. The study revealed that most of the species of flowering plants are used to cure ailments. Among the plants used, 17 are trees (29.8%). 14 are shrubs (24.5%), 18 are herbs (31.5%) and 8 are climbers (15.2%) (Figure. 1). Analysis of the plant parts used by the tribes shows that leaves are the most widely used items, followed by fruits/flowers, roots, whole plant, stem, bark and tuber/rhizomes. A single disease can be cured with more than one plant and a single plant can cure more than one disease.

2 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

014210   Vakshasya S;Dixit G (F-31, Forest Research Institute, New Forest, Dehradun-248 006) : Plants used in contact therapy by Van Gujjars and other indigenous people of Khatima terai region of district Udham Singh Nagar of Uttarakhand state. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(2), 407-11.

Plants used by Van Gujjar and other indigenous people in Contact Therapy have been recorded in the present manuscript. Though Contact Therapy is not very common therapy among civilized world but it is an age old and effective treatment practice to cure several human and veterinary ailments by the tribals and other indigenous persons of the study area. It has been noticed that plant parts specially roots and stem are used more vigorously in comparison to other plant parts. Sometimes they also allow inhaling of floral fragrance for prompt relief. It is believed to be totally safe treatment therapy and causes no harms either in prevention and/or cure of the ailment as these are based on local application. For the present study, different tribal inhabiting sites were surveyed and ethnomedicinal descriptions of about 30 angiospermic plant species were recorded.

14 ref

014209   Thakor A B (Biology Dep, B.K.M. Science Colelge, Valsad, Gujarat, Email: alpeshthakor83@yahoo.co.in) : Seed morphology of caesalpiniaceae plants in Gujarat state, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(1), 63-7.

Seed is a small embryonic plant enclosed in a covering, called seed coat, and usually with some stored food. It is the product of the ripened ovule of gymnosperm and angiosperm plants occurring after the process of fertilization within the mother plant. The formation of the seed completes the process of sexual reproduction in seed plants. The term "Seed" is many a times called as a general term denoting the planting material. There may be a scar on the seed coat, called the hilum; it is where the seed was attached to the ovary wall by the funicular. This paper presents 36 seed plants of Caesalpiniaceae family and their seed morphology from the study area.

1 table, 10 ref

014208   Talukdar S R;Roy D K;Deori C (Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Regional Centre, Shillong-793 003, Email: drchayadeoribsi@gmail.com) : Fraxinus floribunda Wall. (Oleaceae): a new record for Mizoram, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(1), 203-5.

Fraxinus floribunda Wall. has been collected from Hualtu (ca. 1400 m), Mizoram for the first time. Detailed botanical citation, taxonomic description, distribution and economic importance are presented in this paper.

1 illus, 7 ref

014207   Suryanarayana Swamy N;Seetharami Reddi T V V (Botany Dep, Govt. Degree College (Men), Srikakulam-532 001) : Exclusive phytotherapeutics from the tribals of Adilabad district, Andhra Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(3), 439-43.

Adilabad district of Andhra Pradesh is a botanical paradise with good forest cover, over hundreds of medicinal plant species have established for their therapeutic value. During the field survey of these plants, it was observed that some of the medicinal uses of plant species practiced by the tribals are not recorded in published literature. Therefore, the present article, deals with the information of such 24 plants belonging13 families, with 69 less known medicinal uses to scientific community. This will help in further investigation on those plants and their phytochemical analysis for active principles.

15 ref

014206   Suresh Kumar;Purohit C S;Kulloli R N (NO, Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur-342 005) : Ex-situ conservation of rare plant - Moringa concanensis Nimmo ex dalz. & Gibs.. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(3), 693-8.

Moringa Adans. genus, belonging to Moringaceae, a monogeneric family, has a number of species (34), of which three species occur in India. Of these two are in Rajasthan. Moringa oleifera Lam. is domesticated species, while M. concanensis Nimmo ex Dalz. & Gibs, has been listed as rare species requiring enhanced conservation efforts. Hence, its native populations were searched in western Rajasthan. We have been able to locate it only at few sites in Banner, Jaisalmer and Jodhpur. Its seeds were collected in March-April. Observations on its pods, seeds, germination and seedling growth were recorded to assess feasibility of its ex-situ conservation. There was no dormancy and 100% seeds germinated in coco-peat as well as soil in polythene bags within 7-8 days, indicating 100% viability. Seedling growth was rapid in first three weeks in coco-peat while it took four weeks to attain same height in soil contained in polythene bags. However, seedling mortality was more (39.46%) in coco-peat saplings than in soil in polythene bags (9.76%). Hence, seeds could be successfully germinated in polythene bags under partial shade. Its saplings transplanted in the field of Desert Lead Botanical Garden of CAZRI have shown excellent survival and growth. In view of its immense economic potential in food industry and also successful growth, this can be conserved ex-situ as an ideal component crop in dry land agro-forestry system.

6 illus, 10 ref

014205   Sur P R;Baske P K;Halder A C (Central Botanical Laboratory, Botanical Survey of India, P.O. Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : Contribution to the ethnobotany of Rayagada district, Orissa. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(1), 6-16.

Deals with the study of ethno-botanical importance of 104 plants species under 96 genera of Rayagada district, Orissa, India. Different plants available in the locality used by the tribes like Kond, Saora, Sabar, Paroja, Kondadora, Munda, Gadhaba, Kandha Gauda, Koya, Kolah Loharas, Santal, Kharia, Gond, Bathudi, Bhumia, Oraon are summarized. The scientific names, vernacular names, locality, plant parts used and their ethnobotanical uses are also given.

1 ref

014204   Sudhir Kumar;Paul R (Botany Dep, Kisan P.G. College, Simbhaoli-245 207, Email: tejasvi_sk@rediffmail.com) : Traditional use of medicinal plants to cure arthritis among the tribal communities of Kangra district, Western Himalaya. J Econ Taxon Bot 2011, 35(1), 90-4.

This paper provides brief ethnomedicinal uses of 20 plant species belonging to 20 genera and 18 families used by the Gaddi, Gujjar and Dhogri tribes of Shivalik and Dhauladhar range of Kangra District, Himachal Pradesh. These plant species have been arranged alphabetically with their family, local name and ethnomedicinal uses.

2 illus, 13 ref

014203   Subramanian A;Mohan V R;Maruthupandian A; Kalidass C (Botany Dep, Sri K.G.S. Arts College, Srivaikundam, Tamil Nadu, Email: vrmohan_2005@yahoo.com) : Wild edible plants used by valaiyans of the Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(2), 466-71.

Survey of wild edible plants was undertaken and about 87 species belonging to 44 families were selected and documented from different settlements of Valaiyans in the South-Eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. Plant species with their family names, vernacular names and plant parts used are tabulated.

1 table, 5 ref

014202   Subramanian A;Mohan V R;Kalidas C; Maruthupandian A (Botany Dep, Sri K.G.S. Arts College, Srivaikundam, Tamil Nadu, Email: vrmohan_2005@yahoo.com) : Ethno-medico botany of the valaiyans of Madurai district, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(2), 363-79.

Ethnobotanical survey was carried out among the ethnic groups (Valaiyans) in South Eastern slopes of the Western Ghats, Madurai district, Tamil Nadu. Traditional uses of 166 plant species belonging to 135 genera and 55 families are described under this study. These tribals are using 33 plants to treat rheumatism, 22 plants to reduce body heat, 20 plants for unknown insect-bites/ general poisonous bites, 14 plants for eczema/itches/pimples, 12 plants for treating gastritis and 11 plants for cough and cold. The medicinal plants used by Valaiyan tribe are arranged alphabetically, followed by family name, local name (in italics), parts used, mode of preparation of drug, medicinal uses and dosage etc.

1 table, 14 ref

014201   Subrahmanya P K;Raveendran K (P.G. Studies & Research in Botany Dep, Sir Syed College, Taliparamba, Kannur-670 142, Email: prasadks.1090@rediffmail.com) : Isachne veldkampii k.g. Bhat & C.R. Nagendran (Poaceae)-a new record for Kerala. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(3), 624-5.

Isachne veldkampii KG. Bhat & C.R. Nagendran (Poaceae), a rare, endemic species is described, illustrated and reported as a new record for Kerala.

1 illus, 3 ref

014200   Subrahmanya P K;Raveendran K (Post Graduate Studies & Research in Botany Dep, Sir Syed College, Taliparamba, Kannur-670 142, Email: prasadks.1090@rediffmail.com) : Glyphochloa acuminata (Hack.) Clayton var Stocksii (Hook.F) clayton-a little known plant form Kerala. J Econ Taxon Bot 2010, 34(3), 495-6.

Glyphochloa acumiriata (Hack.) Clayton var. stocksii (Hook, f.) Clayton, a Poaceae member on rocky soil is being reported here from Kasaragod district as a new record for Kerala.

1 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

014199   Subin M P;Reghu N (Post Graduate Botany Dep, Sree Narayana College, Nattika, Dist. Thrissur, Kerala-680 566) : Phytochemical screening and antibacterial properties of Croton hirtus L'Her. plant against some important pathogenic bacteria. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2012, 11(1), 59-64.

The present study is aimed at evaluating the in vitro antimicrobial activity of different solvent extracts of Croton hirtus L'Her. against ten medically important bacterial strains namely Escherichia coli, Enterococcus sp., Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi, Bacillus thuringiensis, Bacillus subtili, Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas fluorescens, Proteus sp. and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Phytochemical analysis and antimicrobial properties of shoot, root and whole plant extracts of C. hirtus were investigated separately in methanol, ethanol, chloroform, acetone and water. Phytochemical screening reveals the presence of alkaloids, tannins, flavonoids, steroids, phenols, glycosides, terpenoids, anthroquinone, saponins and cardiac glycosides. The methanol extract exhibited higher and wider range of activity against majority of the test organisms. The shoot methanol extracts recorded highest activity against Bacillus thuringiensis (13.67 mm ZOI and MIC of 600μg/mL), Bacillus subtili (13.83 mm ZOI and MIC of 600μg/mL) and Salmonella paratyphi (12.5 mm ZOI and MIC of 800μg/mL). The methanol whole plant extracts demonstrated highest activity against Salmonella typhi (13.33 mm ZOI and MIC of 700μg/mL) whereas methanol root extracts demonstrated highest against Klebsiella pneumoniae (13.33 mm ZOI and MIC of 800μg/mL) and Enterococcus sp. (10.5 mm ZOI and MIC of 1000μg/mL). The performance of methanol extracts was followed by chloroform extracts. The chloroform whole plant extracts showed the highest activity against Escherichia coli (14.67 mm ZOI and MIC of 400μg/mL) and Staphylococcus aureus (12.67 mm ZOI and MIC of 800 μg/mL). whereas chloroform shoots extracts against Pseudomonas fluorescens (12.33 mm ZOI and MIC of 900μg/mL). The highest activity against Proteus sp. was recorded in shoot acetone extracts (10.67 mm ZOI and MIC of 1000μg/mL). Water and ethanol extracts demonstrated the least activity against the test bacteria.

3 illus, 6 tables, 2 ref

014198   Sridhar K R;Karun N C (Biosciences Dep, Mangalore Univ, Mangalagangotri, Mangalore, Karnataka-574 199, Email: sirikr@yahoo.com) : On the basket stinkhorn mushroom Phallus merulinus (Phallaceae) in Mangalore, Karnataka, India. J Threatened Taxa 2013, 5(5), 3985-88.

30 ref

014197   Sreedevi B;Devi M C;Saigopal D V R (Virology Dep, Sri Venkateswara University, Tirupati-517 502, Email: charithamekala@yahoo.co.in) : Induction of defense enzymes in Trichoderma harzianum treated groundnut plants against Macrophomina phaseolina. J biol Control 2011, 25(1), 33-9.

Antagonistic activity of Trichoderma harzianum isolated from the rhizosphere of groundnut was determined in vitro. T. harzianum decreased the root rot incidence in vivo. Potential of T. harzianum to induce systemic resistance was tested in groundnut against Macrophomina phaseolina. Biochemical changes in T. harzianum treated plants, M. phaseolina inoculated plants and healthy plants were assayed at different stages of infection. Treatment with T. harzianum and challenge inoculation of M. phaseolina enhanced induction of defense enzymes such as peroxidase (PO) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and defense compounds like total phenol and ortho-dihydric phenol. Total phenols, ortho-dihydric phenols, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities increased at different stages of infection. T. harizanum treatment along with challenge inoculation of the pathogen significantly increased the activity of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase by about 28.2% and 95.5%, respectively, in roots at stage 2 compared to untreated plants. Increased levels of peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase were induced in root and shoot of treated plants indicating the systemic protection offered to groundnut by T. harzianum. The observations revealed that T. harzianum was capable of inducing systemic resistance against M. phaseolina by eliciting the production of defense enzymes.