014923   Saini V;Middha A;Kinger H K;Rathore M S; Rathore S G (Pharmacognosy Dep, B.R. Nahata College of Pharmacy, Mandsaur-458 001) : Antibacterial and antifungal activities of Solanum xanthocarpum Leaf. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 367-8.

Antimicrobial and antifungal properties of water and alcoholic extracts of leaves of Solanum xanthocarpum Leaf were tested in gram positive and gram negative bacterial strains using agar gel diffusion method. It was observed that alcoholic extract was most effective as it showed bacterial activity in the garm negative and gram positive strains and against fungi also. All the test compound exhibited moderately to good anti bacterial and antifungal activity.

^ssc1 table, 8 ref

014922   Remashree A B;Balachandran I (Centre for Medicinal Plants Research (CMPR), Arya Vaidya Sala, Kottakkal-676 503, Email: remashree@rediffmail.com) : Anatomical and histochemical studies on four species of Curcuma. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 1-8.

Anatomical and histochemical studies of medicinally important four species of Curcuma, namely C. longa (turmeric), C. aromatica (kasthuri turmeric), C. amada (mango ginger) and C. zedoaria (yellow zedoary) were carried out to find out the variation. A comparative study on the macroscopic and microscopic features of rhizomes and standardisation of the anatomy of the raw drugs were done. The keys for identification are proposed based on histochemical localization of curcumin cells, oil cells, starch, lipid content and the basic anatomical characters. Though all the species had basically similar anatomical characters, variations were noticed in the number and arrangement of primary and secondary bundles, orientation of tissues, number and shapes of curcumin cells, starch grains and oil cells. The primary vascular bundles are abundant and scattered in both outer and inner zone in C. longa and C. amada, less in C. zedoaria and least in C. aromatica. Maximum number of curcumin cells were found in C. longa and C. zedoaria', it is minimum in C. amada. At maturity the number and size of starch grains vary among species and this is an important feature for identification. Maximum number and large starch grains were present in C. zedoaria and C. aromatica. Oil cells are present more or less in spherical shape and contain stored volatile oil. The number of oil cells and curcumin cells varies in four species and they are higher in the apical and nodal region than in the internodal region. The size of the oil cells is dependent on their number. Another important feature is the presence of cambium like cells in the Curcuma species - a monocotyledonous plant.

2 illus, 5 tables

014921   Rathore J S;Rathore M S;Singh M;Shekhawat N S (Botany Dep, Biotechnology Unit, J N V Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: biotechunit@gmail.com) : Micropropagation of mature tree of Citrus limon. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 239-44.

Protocol for in vitro cloning of mature plants of Citrus limon using nodal shoot segments has been developed. Three to four shoots were induced per axillary meristems on MS medium amended with 9μM BAP. Repeated transfer of the initial explants for up to six passages on MS medium [having 50% of the original concentrations of NH₄NO₃ and KNO₃, and supplement of 250 mg L^-1 (NH₄)₂SO₄] with 0.22 μM BAP yielded crops of shoots. Three to four-fold shoot multiplication rate was achieved by subculturing of shoots. The shoots have been multiplied for more than 48 months without loss of vigour. One hundred percent of the cloned shoots rooted: (i) in vitro on half-strength MS medium+27 μM NAA+0.1% activated charcoal, and (ii) ex vitro on soilrite if pulse-treated with 1.07-2.68 mM NAA. Ninety five percent of rooted plantlets survived hardening and transplanting. Micropropagated plants are under filed trials in states of Rajasthan and Gujarat of India. These have flowered and produced fruits.

6 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

014920   Ramachandran A;Soosairaj S (Plant Biology & Plant Biotechnology Dep, St. Joseph's College (Autonomous), Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu) : Hibiscus surattensis linn. and Hibiscus panduriformis burm. F.- little known species from the eastern ghats of Tamil Nadu. Indian For 2006, 132(11), 1509-10.

^ssc5 ref

014919   Pathak G C;Pandey N;Sharma C P (Department of Boatny, University of Lucknow, Lucknow-226 007, Email: nalini_pandey@rediffmail.com) : Zinc regulation of antioxidant defence in green gram (Vigna radiata L.). J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 211-16.

Effect of zinc on non-enzymatic and enzymatic constituents of the antioxidant defence system and lipid peroxidation caused by reactive oxygen species was investigated in leaves of green gram (Vigna radiata L. cv Type-9). Plants grown with zinc supply ranging from 0.01 to 10 μM under greenhouse conditions showed optimal growth and biomass yield at 1 μM Zn supply. Leaves of these plants contained the lowest values of lipid peroxides, measured in terms of malondialdehyde (MDA). Sub-optimal supply of Zn led to decrease in the concentration of chlorophyll and carotenoids and activities of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, ascorbate peroxidase and catalase, concomitant with increased accumulation of MDA. These changes indicate the importance of adequate supply of Zn for efficient functioning of the antioxidant defence mechanism. Inadequacy of Zn down-regulates the antioxidant defence system, exposing plants to greater oxidative damage from free oxygen radicals under stressful conditions.

^ssc2 illus, 2 table, 29 ref

014918   Passarelli M L;Cocucci A A (LEAVE, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Museo. Universidad Nacional de, , 1900 La Plata) : Morphological and functional aspects of anthers from species of Solanum sect. Cyphomandropsis. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 47-54.

The study of anther development of Solarium sect. Cyphomandropsis species (Solanum confusum Morton, Solarium glaucophyllum Desf. and Solanum stuckertii Bitter) provide information about differences between the anther wall layers and placentoid behaviour at maturity and according with the floral syndrome. It is known that in Solarium species with vibratory mode of pollen release, anther wall is thick with four or more layers and the placentoid staid expanded during anthesis. In Solanum species with a bellow like mechanism of release (e.g. section Pachyphylla) pollen wall is thin (one or two layered) and the palcentoid presents a double expansion at maturity being collapsed at anthesis time. The anther locule stays empty allowing the pollen to be bellowed out. This feature was known exclusively for sect. Pachyphylla but in-thrs-work it is observed that it is extended in the genus. In section Cyphomandropsis with both pollen release modes working together intermediate anther morphology is found and anther behavior at anthesis time is similar to that of section Pachyphylla.

5 illus, 22 ref

014917   Narendra Kumar;Singh R K (KVK, , Khagaria, Bihar) : Effect of sulphosalicylic acid on membrane stability and vase life of cut spikes of gladiolus genotypes. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 291-4.

Solution culture studies were carried out on gladiolus cut flowers to evaluate the influence of sulphosalicylic acid on membrane stability and vase life of flowers. All the vase solution showed superiority over control. Sulphosalicylic acid phosphorus + sucrose 4% significantly improved membrane stability in gladiolus cut flowers. Resulted vase life of cut flower extended 4.80 days to 12.00 days. However, among cultivars Sunayana showed best performance in respect of MSI and vase life of cut gladiolus.

2 tables, 10 ref

014916   Murti G S R;Upreti K K (Plant Hormones Laboratory, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta Lake Post, Banglore-560 089, Email: gsrm@iihr.ernet.in) : Efects of paclobutrazol on leaf water potential, ethylene production, ACC, ACC-oxidase and polyanines in mango seedlings. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 183-8.

Effects of soil drenching treatments of paclobutrazol (0, 100, 250 and 500 mg/l) on morphological characters, leaf water potential, ethylene production, 1-aminocyclopropane-1 carboxylic add (ACC), ACC-oxidase and polyamines were investigated in the seedlings of polyembryonic mango cv. Bappakai at 30, 60 and 120 days of treatment. Paclobutrazol reduced plant height, production of leaves and stem girth; the effects being pronounced at 500 mg/l treatment after 120 days. Leaf water potential (Ψ_w) was less negative in the pa-clobutrazol-treated seedlings. There was reduction in ethylene production, ACC content and ACC-oxidase activity but increase in total polyamines, spermidine and spermine in response to paclobutrazol treatments. No definite trends were evident in the putrescine levels. The changes in ethylene production, ACC content, ACC-oxidase activity and spermidine levels were apparent in the seedlings at 120 days and in spermine content at 60 days after paclobutrazol treatment at 500 mg l^-1 concentration. It is suggested that changes in ethylene biosynthesis and polyamine metabolism in mango seedlings could be the consequence of metabolic alterations brought about by paclobutrazol unrelated to its growth inhibitory response. A role for leaf Ψ_w in paclobutrazol-induced vigour control is suggested.

4 tables, 29 ref

014915   Mondal K;Sharma N S;Malhotra S P;Dhawan K; Singh R (Biochemistry Dep, Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural Uni, Hisar-125 004) : Oxidative stress and antioxidant systems in tomato fruits stored under normal and hypoxic conditions. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 145-50.

Tomato varieties ARTH-3 (long shelf life; 14-15 days) and Sel-7 (short shelf life; 5-7 days), harvested at colour turning stage, were stored in open trays, cardboard boxes and polyethylene bags at 25°C and sampled at two day intervals until complete deterioration. Polyethylene bags were sealed and so are expected to have low O₂ atmosphere as compared to open trays and cardboard boxes. Variety ARTH-3 could be stored for ten days while Sel-7 could not be stored longer than six days. In both the varieties, lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, malondialdehyde (MDA) value and H₂O₂ content increased during storage. Fruits stored in polyethylene bags displayed minimum increase in these indices of reactive oxygen species (ROS) followed by open trays and cardboard boxes. Activities of enzymes responsible for scavenging ROS viz., superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POX), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), catalase (CAT) and glutathione reductase (GR) decreased continuosly during storage. Tomatoes stored in polyethylene bags exhibited maximum activities of these enzymes thus neutralizing the deleterious effect of ROS. Although in general, the fruits got deteriorated during storage, the overall physical appearance of the fruits stored in polyethylene bags was acceptable. These results suggest that fruits stored in polyethylene bags could tolerate oxidative stress and prevent the membrane damage and loss of tissue structure to a higher degree than the fruits stored in open trays and cardboard boxes.

9 tables, 23 ref

014914   Mohi-ud-din G G;Nawchoo I A;Wafai B A (Botany Dep, Univ of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: irshadnawchoo@yahoo.co.in) : Mating and pollination mechanisms in Saussurea costus (Falc.) Lipsch.- a critically endangered medicinal plant of N.W. Himalaya. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 41-6.

Saussurea costus (Asteraceae) is a critically endangered medicinal plant of N.W. Himalaya (Anonymous 1997). Very little is known about the reproductive biology of the important medicinal herb, which is rare and threatened. Basic and detailed information about the reproductive biology of important species is a pre-requisite for their genetic improvement and conservation. The present study is aimed to unravel the pollination system, phenological and breeding behaviour of the species. It is revealed that the species is entomophilous (pollinated by insects) and self-incompatible, cross compatible. The data generated will be of immense use for designing and developing various conservation strategies such as multiplication, domestication and genetic improvement.

5 tables, 17 ref

014913   Mishra S R;Sabat S (NO, Institute of Life Sciences, Nalco Square, Chandrashekharpur, Bhubaneswar-751 023) : Photoinactivation of photosynthesis of a submerged aqatic angiosperm Hydrilla verticillata under low CO₂ concentration. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 125-31.

Effect of CO₂ availability on photosynthetic activity of Hydrilla verticillata, a submerged aquatic angiosperm, was investigated. Carbon dioxide fixation, PS-II catalyzed electron transport activity, absorption and fluorescence characteristic and protein phosphorylation of thylakoids were measured in response to light and dark exposure of these plants. When Hydrilla twigs in Hoagland's medium (pH 5.9) were illuminated for 4 hours at light intensity of 450 μmol^-2s^-1, The pH of the medium was increased, maximum being around 10.4. There was no appreciable change in pH when the plants were grown in the dark for same period. The light-induced change in pH was reversible upon dark adaptation. Carbon-dioxide fixation, O₂ evolution activity were declined with increase in pH of the medium. Photosystem-II catalyzed electron transport activity of thylakoids isolated from light exposed plants declined by 2-3 fold as compared to that of dark adapted plants. The decline in electron transport activity in light was however, reversible upon dark-adaptation of light-exposed plants. Light saturation (I_k) appeared to shift by about 100 μmolm^-2s^-1 when Hydrilla twigs adapted to light (Is-490 μmolm^-2s^-1) for 4 h were transferred to dark d_k-600 μmolm^-2s^-1) indicating change in antenna upon dark to light transition. The relative quantum yield of photosystem-II catalyzed electron transport activity of light and dark-exposed plants remained same indicating that decline in activity of light exposed plants is independent of the energy transfer from antenna to reaction center. Light absorption, excitation and emission capacity of photosynthetic pigments decreased in light-adapted plants and this decrease is reversible upon dark adaptation indicating that there was decrease in electron transport activity and no change in quantum yield upon dark to light transition. Phosphorylation of some thylakoid proteins specially LHC II was found to be pH dependent. Concludes that the thylakoid protein phosphorylation is essential for regulation of electron transport activity in Hydrilla verticillata. The change in light saturation characteristic from light to dark reflects change in antenna size and perhaps reflects LHC II phosphorylation. Further, the protection against photoinactivtion due to low CO₂, may be achieved through decrease in absorption characteristic of the pigments so as to have minimal excitation that lead to decline in electron transport activity, but no alteration in relative quantum yield.

8 illus, 33 ref

014912   Mahesh Kumar R;Santhala N;Anil Kumar T B; Sudharshana L (Department of Crop Physiology, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Banglore-560 065, Email: ishantala@yahoo.co.in) : Phytoalexin from finger millet leaves infected with Pyricularia grisea. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 177-82.

Phytoalexins from blast-infected resistant varieties of finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn] were more effective in inhibiting spore germination of Pyricularia grisea compared to phytoalexins from susceptible varieties. The crude phytoalexins from healthy leaves did not show any effect on spore germination. Four phytoalexins were isolated as a group of novel phytoalexins from finger millet leaves infected with Pyricularia grisea. The antifungal activity of these compounds on spore germination of P. grisea was assayed. From their UV, El-mass and IR spectra, two of the new phytoalexins appeared to be similar to that of phytoalexins produced by rice in response to Pyricularia oryzae infection.

2 table, 12 ref

014911   Karunakar Rao P;Suvartha C (Botany Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Induced morphological mutants in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill) cv. Pusa Ruby. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 298-303.

Seeds of Lycopersicon escutentum Mill cv Pusa ruby were treated with various doses/concentrations of physical (gammarays) and chemical (HZ. EMS) mutagens and their combinations (30KR + EMS, 30KR + HZ). Various morphological mutations were characterized on the basis of the part of the plant body affected in M2 generation. Based on this, 22 different types of morphological mutants including sterile were isolated. Among them the important mutations from the point of view of breeding are, male sterile, dwarf and bushy mutants.

11 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

014910   Jain P K;Jain P C (Applied Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Dr. H.S. Gour Vishwavidyalaya, Sagar-470 003, Email: micjain@hotmail.com) : Isolation, characterization and antifungal activity of Streptomyces sampsonii GS 1322. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(2), 203-6.

For new antifungal antibiotics from actinomycetes, a strain of Streptomyces GS 1322 was isolated from a sample of garden soil. The strain was found to possess antagonistic activity against four fungi i.e., Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger, Microsporum gypseum and Trichophyton sp. The strain was identified as Streptomyces sampsonii and the antifungal compound produced by it was found to be the heptaene group of polyene antibiotics.

1 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

014909   Jain M;Pal M;Gupta P;Gadre R (School of Biochemistry, Devi Ahilya Vishwavidyalaya, Takshashila Parisar, Khandwa Road, Indore-452 017) : Effect of cadmium on chlorophyll biosynthesis and enzymes of nitrogen assimilation in greening maize leaf segments: role of 2-oxoglutarate. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(4), 385-9.

Supply of cadmium chloride (0.5 mM) inhibited chlorophyll formation in greening maize leaf segments, while lower concentration of Cd (0.01 mM) slightly enhanced it. Inclusion of 2-oxoglutarate (2-OG, 0.1-10 mM) in the incubation mixture increased chlorophyll content in the absence as well as presence of Cd. Substantial inhibition of chlorophyll formation by Cd was observed at longer treatment both in the absence and presence of 2-OG. When the tissue was pre-incubated with 2-OG or Cd, the inhibition (%) of chlorophyll formation by Cd was lowered in the presence of 2-OG. Treatment with Cd inhibited ALAD activity and ALA formation and the inhibition (%) of ALA formation by Cd was strongly reduced in the presence of 2-OG. Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) activity was increased by the supply of Cd both in the absence as well as presence of 2-OG. In the presence of 2-OG, Cd supply significantly increased glutamate synthase (GOGAT) activity and reduced inhibition (%) of glutamine synthetase (GS) activity. The results suggested the involvement of the glutamine synthetase/glutamate synthase (GS/GOGAT) pathway of ammonia assimilation to provide the precursor, glutamate, for ALA synthesis under Cd toxicity and 2-OG supplementation.

1 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

014908   Jagetiya B l;Purohit P (Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Botany Dep, pM.L.V.Government College, Bhilwara-311 001) : Influence of uranyl nitrate on seed germination and early seedling growth of sunflower. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 329-33.

As no biological role of uranium is known, its chemical toxicity, which leads to biological hazards, necessitates its behaviour in Reference to biosystem. The effects of various uranium concentrations on sunflower were studied by observation of seed germination, analysis of various growth and biochemical parameters. Influence was also measured in terms of tolerance index, seedling vigour index and grade of growth inhibition. Late starting of seed germination was observed but ultimate germination was not affected by all the uranium concentrations. Shoot-root length, shoot-root fresh and dry weight, chlorophyll contents, tolerance index and seedling vigour index showed gradual decrease with an increase in uranium concentrations. A significant positive correlation was observed between applied uranium concentrations and leaf soluble protein contents, total phenol contents and grade of growth inhibition. Disturbance in seed germination period, growth and biochemical parameters as well as certain indices shows that uranium is toxic to the sunflower.

1 illus, 4 tables, 50 ref

014907   Jadeja B A;Odedra N K;Vadhiya H A (Botany Dep, M.D. Science College, Porbandar-360 575) : Aquatic, semi-aquatic and marshland plants of Porbandar district, Gujarat. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 205-8.

Total account of 75 species of aquatic, semi-aquatic and marshland plants belonging to 61 genera under 37 families occurring in the erst while Porbandar district of Gujarat is presented in this paper. The families of angiosperms are arranged according to the modified Bentham & Hooker's system of classification. The genera under a family and species under a genus are arranged alphabetically, the families Cyperaceae, Poaceae with 10 and 6, species respectively dominate the aquatic vegetation of the district.

10 ref

014906   Jadeja B A;Odedra N K;Parmar H O (Botany Dep, M.D. Science College, Porbandar-360 575) : Famine fodder of Porbandar district, Gujarat. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 234-5.

Indigenous knowledge of local communities on the plants used as fodder in famine condition in district Porbandar. A total of 24 plants species of 18 families are used. Main leaves are used as fodder.

1 table, 3 ref

014905   Hota M;Nayak B;Choudhary N K (School life Sciences, Sambalpur University, Jyotivihar-768 019) : Growth, pigment composition and photochemical characteristics of Nostoc carneum cultured in laboratory condition and treated with insecticides. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 169-76.

Toxicity response of two pesticides namely Monodhan and Endodhan was investigated on a photoautotrophic cyanobacterium Nostoc carneum. Monodhan treatment brought about decrease in growth, pigment and protein content, Chlorophyll-α (Chl α) fluorescence, electron transport activity compared to control at a concentration of 20 ppm whereas Endodhan caused inhibition from 5 ppm. Chl α fluorescence emission ratio (F₆₈₅/F₇₃₅) of the organism gradually increased from 20 ppm to 100 ppm of Monodhan and 5 ppm to 15 ppm of Endodhan treatment compared to the control whereas, fluorescence excitation ratio gradually declined as the concentration of the pesticides increased. High polarization values were observed in 100 ppm of Monodhan and 15 ppm of Endodhan. Malondialdehyde accumulation gradually increased compared to the control with the increase in pesticide concentration. Loss in the rate of electron transport in terms of 2,6-dichlorophenolindophenol photoreduction was also noted in the pesticide-treated samples. The results show a differential response on pigment and protein content and photochemical characteristics of N. carneum towards the two pesticides used for their toxicity study.

9 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

014904   Gorawar M M;Hegde Y R (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Agriculture Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005) : Role of biocontrol agents in management of foliar diseases of turmeric. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 145-6.

Results of in vitro studies on evaluation of biocontrol agents against turmeric foliar pathogens like Colletotrichum capsici and Alternaria alternata revealed that, fungal bioagents were better than bacterial bioagents in inhibiting the growth of both the pathogens. T. koningii (77.43%). T.harzainum (Sirsi isolate) (76.30%) and T.harzianum (Dharwad isolate) (75.20%) were best in inhibiting the colony growth of C. capsici. Similarly the measurement of colony diameter of A. alternata revealed that maximum reduction of colony growth was observed in case of T.koningii (80%) which was significantly superior over all other bioagents tested and this followed by T.harzianum (Sirsi isolate) (75.20%) and T.harzianum (Dharwad isolate) (73.67%).

1 table, 9 ref

014903   Gopal H;Raja P;Natarajan T (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ Microbiology, Coimbatore-641 003) : Effect of rhizobacterial inoculation on yield and quality of ashwagandha cv. Jawahar 20. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 165-6.

Rhizobacterial inoculation positively influenced the germination, vigour index, shoot and root length, biomass, dry matter production, root and alkaloid yield of ashwagandha. Inoculation of Azospirillum lipoferum-AAs-11, Azotobacter-AAz-3, Bacillus-APb-1 and Pseudomonas fluorescens-APs-1 as combined inoculant recorded the maximum growth, fruit, seed and alkaloid yield of ashwagandha.

2 tables, 7 ref

014902   Giradkar P G;Yeragi S G (NO, K.J. Somaiya College of Science & Commerce, Vidyavihar, Mumbai, Maharashtra) : Medicinal plants of Tadoba national park. Indian For 2006, 132(11), 1442-52.

Gives an account of 91 medicinal plants found in Tadoba National Park, Maharashtra State, India along with their local names, family, habit and medicinal uses in brief.

1 table, 3 ref

014901   Ghive D V;Raut N W;Ghorade R B (Seed Technology Research Unit, Dr. Punjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra) : Tissue culture studies in spine gourd (Momordica dioca Roxb.). Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 266-8.

Experiment on, "Micropropagation studies in Spine gourd (Momordica dioica Roxb)" was-undertaken. Different explants were tried, at which axillary buds proved to be the best explant for in vitro propagation. Different concentrations at cytokinins and auins were used for establishment of axillary buds of spine gourd, where, the treatment combination, MS + BAP 1.5mg. litre^-1 + NAA 10 mg. Litre^-1 was found to be the best for establishment and initiation of explant. The treatment combination of MS + AdSO₄ (70 mg. Litre/80 mg. Litre^-1) + BAP (1.0 mg. Litre^-1) + NAA (1.0 mg. Litre^-1) was found to be superior for multiple shoot development. Effect of different concentrations of auxin in combination with Adenine sulphate for induction of root was studied, whereas, MS + AdSO₄ (80 mg. Litre^-1) + IBA (Img litre^-1) was found to be the best treatment for induction and development roots. The maximum survival of plantlets in primary hardening (54.44) was observed on soilrite : cocopit (3:1). During secondary hardening 95 per cent plantlets survived in AKSG-35 followed by AKSG-5 (90%) and AKSGM-1 (75%).

2 tables, 6 ref, 4 plates

014900   Gautam N (Botany Dep, Daulat Ram College, Univ of Delhi, Delhi-110 007, Email: nidhigautam2004@yahoo.com) : Studies on ovarian trichomes in Melilotus indica All.. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 107-12.

The mature seeds of Melilotus indica All. a fodder legume are considered as one of the hardest seeds that develop inside single seeded pods. The presence of glandular trichomes all over the surface of young ovary is interesting. The present morpho-anatomical studies suggest a defensive role of these trichomes during the seed development.

3 illus, 22 ref

014899   Dhanya M K;Mary C A (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Kerala Agriculture Univ, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram-695 522) : Management of bacterial blight of anthurium (Anthurium andreanum Linden.) using ecofriendly materials. J trop Agric 2006, 44(1-2), 74-5.

Four ecofriendly materials viz., turmeric powder impregnated in sodium bicarbonate (0.15%), neem oil (2%), Pseudomonas fluorescens (a proprietary product at 1.5%) and cow dung extract (7.5%) were compared with streptocycline (100/xg ml^-1) and Captan (0.3%) for their efficacy in controlling bacterial blight of anthurium. Five sprays (at weekly intervals) of both turmeric powder and streptocycline proved to be very effective and gave 100% control as against 97% for Pseudomonas, neem oil, and Captan; cow dung extract, however, was less effective (75%).

^ssc2 tables, 5 ref

014898   Dey B;Srivastava R C (Dep of Life Sciences, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar Campus, West Tripura-799 130) : Comparative study on N₂-ase, NiR activities and nitrogen metabolites in the nodules of different legumes. Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 177-80.

Experiments were conducted to find out the efficiency of six leguminous plants, viz., Vigna mungo, Vigna radiata, Cajanus cajan, Crotolaria retusa, Acacia moniliformis and Mimosa pudica in respect to their nitrite reductase (NiR) and nitrogenase (N₂-ase) activities, soluble protein, insoluble protein, leghaemogiobin content and different nitrogen fractions (soluble, insoluble and total nitrogen) in the nodules. The nodular NiR activity, (N₂-ase) activity, soluble protein, insoluble protein, leghaemoglobin content and different nitrogen fractions were higher with Mimosa pudica.

illus, tables, ref

014897   Debnath M;Sharma S L;Kant U (NO, Institute of Biotechnology and Allied Sciences, Seedling Academy of De, Jagatpura, Jaipur-302 025) : In vitro selection for fungicide tolerance in mustard and regeneration of white rust resistant cell line. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 85-91.

Fungicidal sprays of ridomil M2-72 are widely effective in controlling white rust disease of mustard. The present investigation was conducted on in vitro selection of ridomil tolerant strains of Brassica juncea var. varuna through tissue culture technique. Cultures isolated from 10 days old cotyledonary explant of in vitro grown seedling were found suitable for callus induction. Fast growing green, friable callus cultures were transferred to MS medium amended with 5-500ppm ridomil for selection. In the presence of 200ppm and above, calli died within 5 days of culture. Alternate exposures with and without ridomil containing medium yielded a ridomil tolerant cell line (RTL). The plantlets (RTL₁,) regenerated from RTL were found to tolerate up to l00ppm concentration of ridomil. The performance of tolerance towards ridomil was studied by inducing callus from randomly selected RTL₁, plantlet, thereby suggesting tolerance achieved at gene level. Biochemical studies showed low phenolics content and high activity of oxidative enzymes (PPO and PRO) in the RTL₂ cell line.

2 illus, 4 tables, 25 ref

014896   Deb C R;Temjensangba, (Botany Dep, Nagaland Univ, Headquarters : Lumani, Mokokchung-798 601, Email: debchitta@rediffmail.com) : On the regeneration potential of Arachins labrosa (Linds. ex Paxt.) Reichb. root segments : a study in vitro. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 79-83.

A reproducible and feasible protocol is successfully evolved for micropropagation of Arachnis labrosa using aerial roots from in vitro source. Within five weeks of culture the protocorm-like bodies and shoot buds were developed from 15-20 weeks old in vitro grown roots. There was no morphogenetic response from in vivo grown root segments though there was some swelling in few root segments but degenerated on prolonged culture. Better morphogenetic response was recorded from explants cultured in slanted condition (~45°) on MS medium containing sucrose (3%, w/v), and IAA (4μM)+Kinetin (6μM) in combination where about 80% of the explants responded positively. In most of the explants, initiation of morphogenetic response restricted to the basal cut ends and there was no or very poor response towards the root cap zone. Both IAA and NAA singly impaired regeneration but enhanced the response when used in combination with either BA and/or Kinetin. The protocorm-like bodies and shoot buds differentiated into rooted plantlets on regeneration medium containing NAA (10μM) and BA (8μM) in combination where 10-12 shoots/buds developed in each passages of four week interval. Well rooted hardened plantlets (~3-4cm size) could be obtained for transferring to the potting mix after ~25 weeks of culture initiation. About 60% of the transferred plants survived after two months of potting.

1 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

014895   Dar A R;Dar G H (Botany Dep, Centre of Plant Taxonomy (COPT), Univ of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: ardar4u@yahoo.com) : Pollen morphology of some gymnosperms of the Kashmir Himalaya. Phytomorphology 2006, 56(1-2), 55-60.

The pollen morphological studies have been paid least attention in the previous floristic works on gymnosperms in the Kashmir Himalaya. Deals with the pollen morphology of some (15) species of gymnosperms in the Kashmir Himalaya. This number constitutes about 75% of the total (20) gymnosperm species in the Kashmir Himalaya. Some species are with saccate pollen grains while others have non-saccate pollen grains. Pollen characters were used here to key out these species.

12 plates, 20 ref

014894   Bhosale D M;Navale A M (Plant Pathology and Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722) : Response to rangpurlime seedlings to VA-mycorrhizal inoculation. Int J Pl Sci 2006, (NULL), 202-4.

Pot culture experiment using sterile, P deficient soil was conducted to study the symbiotic relationship of rangpurlime seedlings with VAM-fungi (viz.,Glomus epigaeum, Glomus mosseae, Gigaspora calospora and their mixture) in respect of growth parameters like height, number of leaves, root length, dry weight of shoot and root and mycorrhizal dependency percentage. It was observed from results that mycorrhizal treatments were superior over non-mycorrhizal treatments of rangpurlime seedlings. Glomus mosseae single and Glomus epigaeum + Glomus mosseae + Gigaspora calospora mixture were recorded the maximum height, number of leaves, root length, dry weight of shoot and root and mycorrhizal dependency percentage.

3 tables, 11 ref

014893   Basu P S;Ali M;Chaturvedi S K (Indian Institute of Pulse Research (ICAR), , Kanpur-208 024, Email: basups@satyam.net.in) : Osmotic adjustment increases water uptake, remobilization of assimilates and maintains photosynthesis in chickpea under drought. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(3), 261-7.

Eight chickpea advanced breeding lines (ABLs) and their parents were evaluated for osmotic adjustment (OA), leaf carbohydrates and gas exchange under dryland field. These (ABLs) were derived from crosses between CTS 60543 x Kaniva and Tyson x Kaniva. Mean leaf water potential (LWP) fell down from 100 MPa at pre-stress level to about -2.25 MPa during terminal stress. Relative water content (RWC) showed periodic changes with alternate decrease or increase at certain interval, which also influenced the values of OA (low or high) in number of genotypes e.g. Kaniva, CTS 60543, Tyson and M 75. Significant variation in OA ranging 0.45 to 0.88 MPa was observed at high level of stress at -2.5 MPa. However, none of the genotypes showed stability of OA over the period of stress. Leaf starch declined even at mild stress (LWP,-1.6 MPa) resulting in an increase in hexose sugars and activation state of sucrose-phosphate synthase (SPS) that led to accumulation of sucrose. Both photosynthesis (P_max) and transpiration decreased concurrently in two chickpea lines M 129 and Tyson with increasing water stress. However, rate of decline in the photosynthesis slowed down even drought was further intensified. The observed periodic changes in OA, RWC and photosynthesis appeared to be associated with drought-induced changes in SPS and carbohydrates which modify water uptake of the leaves.

8 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

014892   Ansari M W;Nailwal T K;Gomathi A;Singh A K; Bains G;Shukla A;Chaube H S;Singh U S;Pant R C (Department of Plant Physiology, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, G B Pant University of Agric, Pantanagar-263 145, Email: pant_rc@yahoo.co.uk) : Magneferin (1,3,6,7-tetrahydrosyxanthone-c₂-β-D gulcoside), a phenolic metabolite of mango (Mangifera indica l.), affects germination of spore of Fusarium sp.. J Pl Biol 2005, 32(3), 155-9.

Malformation is a destructive disease of mango (Mangifera indica L.). Fusarium sp. was isolated from malformed as well as healthy tissues of mango cultivars growing in different geographical regions. The concentration of mangiferin (1,3,6,7-tetrahydroxy-xanthone-C₂-β-D-glucoside) was higher in malformed tissues (500, 625, 530 (μg/g fr wt in malformed floral tissues and 788, 840, 800 μg/g fr wt in malformed vegetative tissues, respectively) compared to the healthy tissues (275, 310, 290 μg/g fr wt in healthy floral tissues and 410, 385, 450 μg/g fr wt in healthy vegetative tissues, respectively) of mango cultivars, viz. Mallika, Dashehari and Baramasi. Mangiferin inhibited germination of spores of Fusarium sp. and inhibitory response was maximum at its higher concentrations. The results revealed that higher concentration of mangiferin in diseased tissues may lower the level of Fusarium sp. infection inside the diseased tissues as it was found to inhibit the germination of spores and impede the normal growth of Fusarium sp.

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

014891   Anil Kumar;Sharga A N;Pushpangadan P (Molecular Biology and Genetic Engineering Div, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001, Email: asaxena25@hotmail.com) : Genetic diversity of tamarind (Tamarindus indica Linn.). Physiol molec Biol Pl 2006, 12(2), 185-7.

There is considerable genetic variability between the indigenous tamarind (Tamarindus indica Linn.) and that introduced from Thailand, at DNA level besides morphological distinction in the shape and size of fruits and seeds. This variability may be considered for its proper placement and assigning its status as sub-species/variety or cultivar.

2 illus, 6 ref

014890   Abdin M Z;Ilah A (Biotechnology Dep, Centre for Transgenic Plant Development, Jamia Hamdard (Hamdard Univ), New Delhi-110 062, Email: mzabdin@yahoo.com) : Plant regeneration through somatic embryogenesis from stem and petiole explants of Indian chicory (Cichorium intybus L.). Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 250-5.

Efficient protocol has been developed for rapid propagation of Indian chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) through somatic embryo development. Indirect somatic embryogenesis was induced through nodal stem and petiole explants, cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing different concentrations of 2,4-D, NAA or IAA. Callus was induced from both the explants after 3 wk of inoculation. Subsequently, calli were sub-cultured on MS medium containing different auxin/cytokinin ratios that influenced the intensity of embryo formation, germination and ability to regenerate plants. Somatic embryogenesis was more intensive in medium with higher concentration of Kn (1.5 mg L^-1) and lower concentration of IAA (0.5 mg L^-1) supplemented with vitamin-free casein hydrolysate (500 mg L^-1). After sub-culture, the embryoids were matured onto a fresh MS medium supplemented with Kn (1.5 mg L^-1) + IAA (0.1 mg L^-1) + IBA (1.0 mg L^-1) + CH (500 mg L^-1). The germination of embryos into shoots and less developed roots occurred on the same medium with slight change in IBB concentration (0.5 mg L^-1). Further, root formation occurred in MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L^-1.

2 illus, 4 tables, 16 ref

013918   Yadav S;Saxena M;Singh H K (Lab. of Plant Cytogenetics, Dept of Botany, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 001) : Evaluation of cytotoxicity of some synthetic food colours. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 55-65.

Human beings have been directly exposed to various chemical substances. the regular use of synthetic food colours in various foodstuffs is a new problem before us, in respect to human health. Therefore, the present study has been carried out to evaluate the cytotoxic potential of Erythrosine and Brilliant Blue FCF synthetic food colours on meristematic rood tip cells of Allium sativam. At lower concentrations (100 ppm and 250 ppm) erythrosine dye showed stimulatory effect on mitotic index, while at higher concentrations (500 ppm, 750 ppm and 1000 ppm) both dyes showed inhibitory effect on mitotic index. These dyes induced several chromosomal aberrations like: Chromosomal breakage, stickiness, chromatid separation, scattedring, extrusion, chromosomal bridge, polarity abolition etc. the mitotic index, frequency of aberrations and their percentage as induced by these food colours were also calculated in accordance with the methods of Singh(1991). The study proves that higher concentrations were cytotoxic and mutagenic to the chromosomes of Allium sativum in the form of lethal aberrations and these concentrations were also responsible for inhibiting the mitotic activity significantly.

5illus,2 tables,19 ref,4 Graph

013917   Yadav R;Aery N C;Rajendra Kumar (Department of Botany, Geo Boatny and biogeochemistry Laboratory, College of Science, M.L.Sukhadia University, Udaipur) : Effect of nickle and cobalt on the content of carbohydrates and phenols in cow pea Vigna sinensis l.. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 368-72.

Effect of various levels of nickel and cobalt on the contents of carbohydrates and phenols in cowpea (Vigna siensis L.) were grown on sandy soil and loamy soil was examined. Various doses of metals applied were 0, 5, 25, 100, 500 and 1000 μ g^-1 At lower concentrations of both the metals, ranging from 5-25 μg g^-1 resulted in an increased the content of the compounds. Concentrations in excess of l00μg g^-1 caused a substantial decrease in carbohydrate contents On the other hand it was observed that at lower concentrations of nickel and cobalt the phenolic contents were less but showed increase in vegetative growth,biomass. With the increase of metal doses in the soil, the phenolic contents of the plants increased but this was accompanied by decreased growth in terms of dry matter.

3 tables, 5 ref

013916   Wani N A;Bhat T A;Ansari M Y K (Department of Botany, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh) : Sodium azide induced variability in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.). Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 105-7.

In this study morpholigical effects of Sodium Azide (SA) were investigated in chickpea (Cicedr arietinum L.). The treated populations showed a marked decrease in seed germination, seedling survival, plant height, number of branches, pollen fertility and 50 seeds weight.

1 table, 8 ref

013915   Vinodhini S;Padmadevi S N;Srinivasan P (Boatny Dep, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal college for Women, Coimbatore, Email: Winvino2004@yahoo.co.in) : Biodegredation of lignocellulosic coir pith by using fungal forms. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 499-502.

Study deals with degradation of coir poll by Humicola sp. Trichoderma viride and Aspergillus terreus. The lignin, cellulose, organic carbon content and evolution of carbon-di-oxide were estimated in pith degraded aad non-degraded coir pith. The content of lignin and cellulose were found to be low in lignin and cellulose during different period of biodegradation.

4 tables, 15 ref

013914   Verma K R;Kamal Kishor;Pande P C (Department of Botany, , Kumaun University) : Some new observations on Psilotum nudum (L.) griseb. from Kosi river valley of Almora, Kumaun Himalaya. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 123-5.

Present communication deals with some new observations on habit, habitat and fruitification of living fossil (Psilotum nudum (L.)Griseb. Psilotaceae).

4 illus, 11 ref

013913   Verma D C;Asthana D K (Council of Science and Technology, , U.P., Lucknow-226 018) : Distribution of blue green algae in paddy fields of Uttaranchal state. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 91-6.

Distribution of blue-green algae in paddy fields of different localities of the Haridwar and Dehradun districts has been presented. A total of 27 heterocystous species of blue-green algae, belonging to the genera Nostoc (5), Anabaena (8), Cylindrospermum (3), Scytonema (5), Calothrix (2), Tolypothrix (1), Gloeotrichia (20) and Microchaete (1), were recorded during the course of investigation.

30 ref

013912   Untwal L S;Kondawakar M S;Chavan V (Appasaheb Birnale College of Pharmacy, South Shivaji Nagar, Sangali Marg Road, Sangli, Email: lakshya_untwal@yahoo.com) : Antibacterial activity of Terminalia catappa fruit extract. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 469-71.

Terminalia catappa L. (tropical almond), of Combretaceae family is a large deciduous tree, originally from India. It thrives as an ornamental tree in many tropical cities of the world. The work highlights the antibacterial property of Methanol-HCl, Methanolic, & Ethanolic extract of Terminalia catappa fruits (Mesocarp & Pericarp). The antibacterial testing was carried outby Disc diffusion method". The test bacteria used for this study were, Gram positive bacteria like Staphykcoccus aureus ATCC 3750, Staphylococcus aureus (Coagulase positive), Bacillus subtilis var. niger ATCC 9372, and Gram negative organisms like Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris and Salmonella typhi. Amongst the tested three extracts, Methanol-HCl, showed antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus (Coagulase positive) only. Methanolic extract showed antibacterial activity against Proteus vulgaris only. While Ethanolic extract showed antibacterial activity against, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 3750, Proteus vulgaris and Salmonella typhi.

3 tables, 9 ref

013911   Udayan P S;Tushar K V;George S;Balachandran I (Centre for Medicinal Plants Research (CMPR), , Arya Vaidya Sala, Changuvetty, Kottakkal, Malappuram District, Kerala-676 503, Email: avscmpr@sify.com) : Phyllanthus Kozhikodianus Sivar. & Mini. (Euphorbiaceae) - a new record for the stateof Andhra Pradesh, India. Zoos Print J 2006, 21(5), 2259-60.

26 ref

013910   Tiwari M (Botany Dep, Kumaun University, D.S.B. Campus, Nainital-263 002) : Effect of AM, phosphorus and nickel on photosynthetic mechanism of Dalberbia sissoo Roxb. seedlings. Ecol Envir Conserv 2006, 12(4), 681-7.

Toxicity of nickel (Ni) on photosynthetic mechanisms in VAM (Glomus sp.) inoculated D. sissoo was studied at three levels each of Nickel (Ni), viz. 0.0 (Ni1), 5.0 (Ni2), 50.0 (Ni3) μM and Phosphorus (P), viz. 0.0 (P1), 0.5 (P2), 2.0 (P3) in sand culture. The specific site of Ni toxicity in photosynthetic mechanism appears to be chlorophyll b. P and V AM also reduced it. Ni and P had negative and V AM positive effect on photosynthetic A T³²P synthesis. Photosynthetic ¹⁴CO₂ fixation was positively affected by V AM only. Reduction in chlorophyll b content and photosynthetic A T³²P did not parallel with the rate of photosynthetic ¹⁴CO₂2 fix;ation in this study. Mycorrhizal plants had higher photosynthetic rate than non-mycorrhizal ones.

1 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

013909   Thind S K;Batra N (Botany Dep, Punjab Agriculture University, Ludhiana- 141 004) : Development of Immature groundnut Arachis hypogaea L. CV. M-13 embyos in vitro. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 91-2.

Devloping embryos of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) cv. M-13 were isolated at two stages of development and 6 weeks after flowering from field grown crop and were inoculated on MS medium pH 5.8). The excised immature embryos (3 WAF) developed normally on BM-0.5 mg NAA + 0.25 mgl^- + 0.1 mgl^- ABA and produced vigorous plantlets. A different pattern of growth was observed when embryos excised 6 weeks after flowering were cultured on MS medium, as vigorous seedling were produced on BM, addition of NAA and GA₃ reduced growth and ABA completely inhibited it.

1 illus, 5 ref

013908   Thengane S R;Deodhar S R;Bhosle S V;Rawal S K (Plant tissue Culture Division, National Chemical Laboratory, Pune-411 008) : Direct somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration in Garcina indica Chosis. Curr Sci 2006, 91(8), 1074-8.

Direct somatic embryogenesis without an intervening callus phase was induced from immature seeds of Garcinia indica Choiss. Woody plant medium supplemented with 6-benzyl amino purine (BAP) (4.44-22.19 μm) alone or in combination with α-naphthaleneacetic acid (2.69 μm) produces somatic embryos within a period of 2-3 weeks with 80% frequency. Embryo induction was observed all over the explant surface. Origin of the embryo was confirmed histologically from sub-epidermal layer of the seed. Maturation of these embryos was achieved after 12 weeks of culture on a medium containing BAP (16.08 (.μn) in combination with indole-3-acetic acid (2.85-5.71 μn) and/or kinetin (4.65 μm). About 75% of the regenerated somatic embryos germinated into complete plantlets. The plantlets were acclimatized successfully with 92% survival in greenhouse.

3 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

013907   Tandon P;Rathore T S;Kumaria S (Botany Dep, Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, NorthEastern Hill Univ, Shillong- 793 022, Email: Tandon1@sancharnet.in) : Micropropagation of Coptis Teeta Wall. threatened medicinal plant of Arunanchal Pradesh, India. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 280-2.

Multiple shoots were produced from axillary buds with rhizome parts from mature plants of Coptis teeta on Vi strength Murashige & Skoog's (MS) nutrient salts medium containing 4.42 μM benzylamino purine+0.56 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Isolated shoots were rooted on 1/2 strength MS medium supplemented with 7.35 μM indole-3-butyric acid. Plantlets were also regenerated directly from rhizome segments cultured on Gamborg's medium containing 2.31μM kinetin+0.56 μM indole-3-acetic acid. Regenerated plantlets were hardened and established in the glass house.

2 tables, 13 ref

013906   Sushil Kumar (National centre for Plant Genome Research, Post Box10531, , Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, Email: sushil2000-01@yahoo.co.in) : Progress in understanding of the genetic phenomenon paramutation. Curr Sci 2006, 91(8), 1002-4.

1 illus, 15 ref

013905   Subba Rao M V;Kusuma Kumar P;Manga V;Sarada Mani N (Botany Dep, Andra Univ, Visakhapatanam-530 003, Email: mnpati_srao@yahoo.in) : Molecular markers for screenign salinity response in Sorghum. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 271-3.

Genomic DNAs from two salinity tolerant (IS 23190-Zm 90 & IS-23217-Zm 138), one moderately tolerant (IS 3566) and one sensitive(IS 213253-Zm 321) accessions of Sorghum were subjected to RFLP and RAPD analyses. A combination of digestion with Dra I and probing with BADH 1 distinguished the sensitive from the tolerant and moderately tolerant accessions in the RFLP patterns. A primer having CGGCTAGGT sequence provided distinct RAPD pattern for the tolerants (presence of specific amplified products a, b & c), moderately tolerant (presence of only c) and sensitive (lacking a, b & c) genotypes.

^ssc2 illus, 11 ref

013904   Solomon Raju A J;Rao S P;Jonathan K H (Environmental Sciences Dep, Andhra Univ, Visakhapatnam-530 003) : Andromonoecy, insect pollination and fruiting behaviour in Acacia caesia (L.) willd. (Mimosaceae) in the Eastern Ghats. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 939-43.

Acacia caesia flowers during rainy season. It is an andro-monoecious and obligate outcrosser. Flowers are massed into globose heads and all flowers open on the same day. They produce compound pollen grains (polyads) and nectar in traces. The plant is entomophilous, attracts different insects but only bees and butterflies effect cross-pollination. Natural pod set is below 5%. The study suggests that enhanced pod and seed set rates are possible in resource-rich habitats and in the absence of flower-feeding beetle, Mylabris pustulata.

2 illus, 21 ref

013903   Sivakumar T;Ravi Kumar M;Sivakumar D N (Post Graduate and Research Department of Microbiology, J J college of Arts and Science, Pudukkaottai, Tamil Nadu) : Abundance of mangrove fungi along the east coast of Tamilnadu, India. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 589-94.

Distribution of fungi in Muthupettai mangrove along the East coast in Tamil Nadu was studied in terms of species diversity, seasonal variations, frequency of occurrence in Koraiyar (SI), Korimunai (S2), Manakkattu (S3), Lagoon (S4) and Kadalmunai (S5) of the estuarine system in two different seasons (Summer-Pre monsoon) for a period of 4 months (April, May, July and August,2003). The results showed the high diversity (59 species) in Manakkattu (S3) and low (46 species) in Koraiyar (SI). Among the 118 species of fungi isolated, 117 species were terrestrial and remaining 1 marine forms like, Halosphaeria maritima. Totally, 94 species were isolated from sediment samples followed by water with 83 species. Further in this study, maximum 98 fungal species were enumerated during pre-monsoon than summer with 78 species. Among the fungal members Aspergillus was the common genus represented with 27 species followed by Curvularia (12 species), Alternaria and Penicillium with 8 species respectively.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref