013902   Sinha G P (Botanical Survey of India, , Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002) : Macrolichens of Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve, Sikkim. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 85-9.

Sikkim Himalaya is well known for its rich plant wealth. the Kanchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR) is located in North and West districts of Sikkim with a total area of 2619.92 sq km and represents one of the richest biodiversity centres in Eastern Himalaya. Lichen flora of the area is also rich both in abundance and species diversity. Macrolichens of KBR have been investigated resulting into documentation of 198 taxa. the enumeration of all the taxa, brief write-up on observations on vegetation types within the area and an assessment of past and present lichen flora of a well explored track in KBR are has been provided.

9 ref

013901   Singh R S;Singh M N;Singh U P (Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005) : Nature of pollen sterlity in two cytoplasmic genetic male sterile lines in pigeonpea, Cajanus (L.) millsp. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 377-9.

Two cytoplasmic genetic male sterile (CMS) lines in BC₃F₁ namely, GT 288 A and CMS 1024 A along with their, maintainers were raised over two years to confirm the natur6 of male sterility system. Pollen fertility test exhibited that only 50 and 35 per cent plants of GT 288 A and B were completely male sterile and fertile, respectively, indicating that both A and B lines should be backcrossed/selfed for few more generations to obtain perfect line. However, CMS 1024 A appeared to have mutated gene (s) with varying degree of fertility and lack of pod setting after selfing is due to heterostyly nature of the flower.

2 illus, 2 tables, 2 ref

013900   Singh M;Virendra Nath;Adarsh Kumar (NO, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001) : Morphotaxonomical studies on bryophytes with special reference to the water pollution of Sai river at Raebareli U.P., India. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 75-83.

In the Gangetic plains of India, the bryophytes commonly grow on the river banks specially in their catchment areas. Two bryophytes: Riccia frostii Aust. (Liverwort) and Physcomitrium japonicum (Hedw.) Mitt. (Moss) collected from bank of Sai river at four selected sites (Lohanipur, Dariyapur, Jagdishpur and Behta Picnic Spot) at Raebareli distict have been undertaken for morphotaxonomical and pollution studies. Work has been carried out to find the effect of polluted water on some selected bryophytes as well as their distribution pattern, morphological and anatomical characteristics.

1 table, 4 plates, 11 ref

013899   Shukla S K;Shukla S;Koche V;Mishra S K (PTC Laboratory, School of Life Sceinces, Pt Ravishankar Shukla Univ, Raipur-492 010) : In vitro propagation of tikhur (Curcuma angustifolia Roxb.): A starch yielding plant. Indian J Biotechnol 2007, 6(2), 274-6.

In vitro regeneration of Curcuma angustifolia Roxb. was achieved through shoot meristem culture. The shoot buds (2-3 cm long) from rhizome were inoculated on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP for initiation and elongation of shoots. As a result, 1.87±0.28 shoots per explant were produced. These shoots were transferred on MS medium supplemented with 3.0 mg/L BAP and 25 mg/L adenine sulfate for further shoot multiplication. About 6.9±0.69 micro-shoots per explant were produced with in 6 wk. The roots appeared from shoots on shoot establishment as well as multiplication media. The rooted plants were transferred to pots and aclimatized, which showed 83% survival with normal growth.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

013898   Sharma R;Parihar J S;Vatsa V K (NO, G.D.H.G College, Department of Botany) : Flora of Yamuna Ravines of District Mathura. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 87-8.

Flora of mathura district contains a total number of 507 species belonging to 321 genera of 97 families. The ratio between monocot versus dicot taxa-Families (1:5.4), Genera (1:3.7) & Species (1:3.2). Most dominant family of this area is Leguminosae and Cyperus is the largest genus with 15 species.

2 tables, 8 ref

013897   Sen S;Mukherji S (Plant Physiology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Season-induced alterations in respiratory metabolism in Lycopersicon esculentum Mill (Tomato). Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 31-4.

Seasonal environmental patterns of temperature, day length, humidity etc. provide organisms with a calendar to which developmental changes are "physiologically locked." The respiratory activity of a plant depends upon its constitutional type and genotypic characteristics; it differs from organ to organ and with the availability of substrate, the phase of development, the state of activity and also the environmental conditions. Rate of respiration along with the activities of three important respiratory enzymes viz. Fructose 1,6-bisphosphate aldolase, Succinate dehydrogenase and Glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase were measured in three different seasons of the year -winter, summer and rainy in two developmental stages - pre flowering (35 D) and post flowering (75 D) in Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. var. Pusa Ruby. Three enzymes belong to three different respiratory pathways - Glycolysis, TCA cycle and Pentose Phosphate pathway. The activities of all the three respiratory enzymes assayed along with the respiratory rate exhibited identical trends in recording maximum activity in the winter season. Their values sharply decreased in the summer and recorded a rainy minima. All the three enzymes and rate of respiration recorded higher values in the pre flowering stage (35 D) as compared to the post flowering (75 D) in all three seasons. Winter proved to be the most physiologically active for Lycopersicon with a high demand for energy with diminishing trends in summer followed by rainy.

4 illus, 20 ref

013896   Saxena R;Sharma A K (Pest & Parasite Research Lab-II, Department of zoology, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 001) : Insecticidal potentialities of Ageratum conyzoides and Nerium indicum leaves extracts against Epilachna 28-punctata (F.). Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 43-5.

In the present study, 1.0, 0.5, 0.2 and 0.1% petroleum ether leaves extracts of Ageratum conyzoides (Goat weed) and Nerium indicum (Pink kaner) were evaluated on the 1st instar larvae of epilachna 28 punctata fab. for its growth, larval mortality, developmental period and adult emergence. 1.0% leaves extracts of both A. conyzoides and N. indicum showed 100 and 94.44% larval mortality respectively till emergence. Where 0.2 and 0.1% of A. conyzoides extract had shown only 33.33% larval mortality and that of N. indicum extrat exhibited only 22.22 and 16.67% mortality when compared to control (13.91%). 0.5% extract of A. conyzoides significantly increased the total developmental period (27.41 days) in contrast to control (22.76 days) and reduced adult emergence (33.33%). This was found to be comparatively less effective with 0.2 and 0.1% concentrations. Their LC₅₀ values had also been calculated. During the development of hadda beetle diapause condition and deformed adults has been noticed.

1 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

013895   Saxena K K;Sirohi V (Pest and Parasite Research Laboratory, Department of zoology, Bareilly college, Bareilly-243 005) : Effect of λ cyhalothrin on the metabolism of fresh water fish Channa punctatus. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 135-38.

Effect of λ-cyhalothrin was studied on some biochemical components and activities in fresh water fish Channa punctatus. The effect of exposure to sublethal concentrations (0.20 ppm and 0.15 ppm) of λ-cyhalothrin was studied after exposing the fishes to this compound for a maximum period of 20 days. Biochemical changes in liver and muscles of fish were recorded at regular intervals. Exposure to λ-cyhalothrin caused significant depletion in total proteins and cholesterol levels in both liver and muscles. The values of lipid components were also found decreased in exposed fishes. After statistical analysis of data it was found that these changes were dose and time dependent.

2 tables, 14 ref

013894   Saxena D K;Gangwar R (Botany Department, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 005) : Taxonomical study of Dicranum scoparium Hedw.from Kumaon Hills, India. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 61-4.

Taxonomical account of an acrocarpour moss genus Dicranum scoparium Hedw. of Dicranaceae family, collected from Artola, Dandeswar and Jageswar, of Kumaon region of India, from an altitude of 5070-6000 feet during the year 2001-2003 has been presented. The species is beign described in detail from this region for the first time.

1 plate, 7 ref

013893   Sarkar D M;Sarkar U M;Mahajan N M (NO, Vidya Bharti College of Pharmacy, Camp, Amravati, Maharasthra) : Anti-daibetic and analgesic activity of leaves of Abutilon indicum. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 605-8.

Leaves of Abutilon indicum Linn, were traditionally used to treat bronchitis, gonorrhoea, and as mouthwash in toothache, etc. The plant of Abutilon indicum is available in reach source at Melghat tiger reserve forest area. The tribal community living in the Melghat forest used abutilon indicum leaves to control diabetes mellitus. Hence, the study was planned to verify this claim and also to screen for the analgesic property. In addition, an attempt was made to identify the class of phytochemicals present in the leaves and also attribute the pharmacological property of the leaves to the particular type of phytochemicals. The results revealed that the leaves contain steroids, sapogenins, carbohydrates and flavonoids. It was also observed that different extracts have shown significant hypoglycemic activity at 400 mg/kg dose, but aqueous extract was most potent in reducing the blood glucose levels. Similarly petroleum ether extract and benzene extract were found to possess very good analgesic property. In addition all the extracts have shown CNS depressant activity. The results revealed that the use of leaves in controlling diabetes mellitus is justifiable.

1 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

013892   Saini D C (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow-226 007) : Medicinal value of pteridophytic flora of Anuppur forest division of Madhya Pradesh. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 50-60.

Medicinal value and economic importance of pteridophytic plants, occurring in various localities of Anuppur forest division, Madhya Pradesh has been presented. The communication embodies an enumeration of 35 plant species of economic importance, belonging to 26 genera and 17 families including 14 plant species as additions to the useful ferns of India. The plants are arranged in alphabetical order along with available local names and uses.

43 ref

013891   Reddy N J M (P.G. Botany Dep, Shri Shivaji College, Kandhar Dist. Nanded) : Effect of meteorological factors on the concentration of Puccinia helianthi over sunflower. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 151-2.

Investigations were carried out to find out the concentration of general airspora components of sunflower, special emphasis on rust pathogen and its relevance to the disease incidence and meteorological conditions. Air sampling was carried out over sunflower crop by operating Tilak air sampler" with its orifice kept at a constant height of 1.5 meters above the ground level. The studies were conducted continuously from 5th March 1987 to 7th June 1987. the daily records of temperature, rainfall and humidity were maintained throughout the period of investigation. During the investigation only sporadic occurrence of Puccinia helianthi were observed in the air over sunflower. However, no sigh of disease was noticed in the field, it may be due to unfaborable weather conditions to the Puccinia helianthi to initiate the rust infection and spread the disease whereas it was serious during Kharif season.

1 illus, 1 table, 2 ref

013890   Rawat K K;Srivastava S C (Botany Department, Lucknow University, Lucknow-226 007) : Plagiochila meghalayensis sp. nov. from Meghalaya, India. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 49-53.

Plagiochila meghalayensis sp. nov. described from Elephant falls, Shillong (Meghalaya) differs from the closely allied species P. gymnoclada S.Lac. in colour, never ampliate leaf margin, exposed ventral stem surface and perianth shape.

2 plates, 22 ref

013889   Rathor S;Varshney K A (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Section, Department of Botany, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 001, Email: r_savita2@rediffmail.com) : Effect of salinity and sodicity on nodulation and nitrate reductase activity in black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper). Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 117-21.

Concentration dependent decrease in nodulation viz., size, the number, fresh weight, dry weight and leghaemoglobin content and nitrate reductase activity was noticed in two germplasms of black gram IP-98/120 and IP-98/126 when grown in beds and exposed to artificial salinity and sodicity. The percentage reduction over control was observed to go up with increasing salt stress and with progressive stages of growth and development. Salinity demonstrated a relatively more drastic effect than sodicity. This variable inhibitory effect of two salts NaCl and Na₂CO₃, proved more pronounced in IP-98/120 than in IP-98/126 revealing the latter germplasm to be more tolerant. It is suggested that nodulation and nitrate reductase activity may serve as valuable indices of salt stress experienced during growth and development.

2 tables, 23 ref

013888   Ranjan M R;Nagaraj M (Department of Biology, Gandhigram Rural Institute-Deemed University, Gandhigram-624 302) : Antimicrobial activity of selected spices. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 647-50.

Antimicrobial activity of selected spices such as clove, pepper, coriander and cuminum was assessed against-two pathogens namely escherichia coli and staphylococcusaureus. Screening was performed by Kirby - Bauer disc diffusion and plate dilution technique. Among the four spices tested the highest degree of antmicrobial effect was exhibited by the extracts of the buds of clove Syzygiu aromacticum. and the seeds of pepper Piper nigram. The seeds of coriander Coriandrum sativam and Cuminum Cuminum cyminum had least effect on Staphylocpccus aureus. Escherichia coli was susceptible to all the spices extracts.

6 table, 12 ref

013887   Ramachandran V S;Balasubramaniam V;Pandikumar P (PG and Res Dep of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Sci. College, Coimbatore-641 029, Email: vsrbot@yahoo.co.in) : Additions to the grass flora of Tamil Nadu. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 362-5.

^ssc2 illus, 7 ref

013886   Rama Kant;Tiwari O N;Tandon R;Tiwari G L (Botany Department, Allahabad University, Allahabad-211 002) : Morphology, growth and perennation in Aphanothece, Cyanoprokaryote. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 45-8.

Aphanothece UACC 1001 (comparable to A. pallida) was studied in detail under different culture conditions and a new method of perennation has been described. The young colonies are microscopic, but later due to conglomeration of numerous colonies thallus becomes large and macroscopic. As the nutrients deplete, after about six months most of the scattered cells decolorize and die, but clustered cells form characteristic packets. these packets are able to protect a few perennating cells in centre. the packets germinate in situ after breaking off the covering cells. The perennating cells are large and divide repeatedly to form characteristic aphanothecoid cells.

30 illus, 8 ref

013885   Rajkumar S D (NO, Sri Paramakalyani Centre for Environmental Sci, Alwarkurichi-627 412, Email: dominicraj_in@yahoo.com) : New species of Pteris L. (Pteridaceae: Pteridophyta) from Western Ghats of south India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 313-14.

New species of the genus Pteris from the Western Ghats ranges of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu is described and illustrated.

1 illus, 5 ref

013884   Rajgopal K;Anantha M;Sheetalakshmi I;Indira N (Post Graduate Department Biotechnology, Vel's college of Sciences, Pallavaran, Chennai-600 117) : Characterization of Aspergillus niger using restriction site scoring and dna Molecular weight comprasion isolated from two different enviorments. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 531-3.

Aspergillus niger isolated from soil and phylloplane were characterized using Restriction site scoring and DNA Molecular weight comparision. Variation among the Aspergillus niger could be observed. Restriction enzyme analysis and DNA molecular weight showed difference among the isolates.

14 ref

013883   Rajeev Kumar;Pandey S;Pandey A (NO, College of Agriculture Agronomy, G B Pant Agriculture and Technology U, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: shuklarajeew@rediffmail.com) : Plants roots and carbon sequestration. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 885-90.

Carbon management is a serious concern confronting the world today. A number of summits have been organized on this subject ranging from the Stockholm to Kyoto protocol. The current level of carbon in the atmosphere is about 375 ppm. It is estimated that if the carbon increases in the atmosphere at the present rate and no positive efforts are pursued, the level of carbon in the atmosphere would go up to 800-1000 ppm by the end of current century, which may create havoc for all living creatures on earth. Soil may be an important sink for the carbon storage in the form of soil organic carbon. This form of carbon is also a matter of serious concern for agricultural scientists across the globe because various researches reveal that the soil under intensive cultivation results in declining potential productivity due to reduction in soil organic, carbon, thereby proving an obstacle for sustainable agriculture. Plants are the main source of the soil organic carbon, either from the decomposition of aerial plant parts or underground plant parts, e.g. roots in the form of root death, root exudates and root respiration. About 40% of the photosynthates synthesized in the plant parts is lost through the root system into the rhizosphere within an hour and the rate of loss is influenced by several factors, e.g. plant age, different biotic and abiotic stresses, etc. The rhizospheric environment of the plant is different compared to bulk soil with respect to physical, chemical and biological properties. Provides an insight on the contribution of plant roots for transfer of carbon from atmosphere to rhizosphere and further their sisnificance in sustainable agriculture.

1 illus, 2 tables, 26 ref

013882   Prathapan K D (Entomology Dep, Kerala Agriculture Univ, Valleyani, P.O., Thiruvananthpuram- 695 522, Email: prathapankd@gmail.com) : Conservation of cycads in India. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 862-3.

1 illus

013881   Prasad V P (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Western Circle, 7, Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : Additions to the type material in the herbarium of Botanical Survey of India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 379-83.

^ssc1 ref

013880   Poornima D (Study in Botany Dep, University of Mysore, Karnataka) : Micropropagation of Nicotiana plumbaginifolia VIV. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 123-5.

Rapid clonal multiplication of N. plumbaginifolia has been achieved in vitro through direct and indirect organogenesis using seedling leaf explants on MS medium. Kn played an important role in shoot regeneration and the regenerated shoots can be easily rooted with IBA. The rooted shoots were acclimatized using vermiculite and soil mixture.

1 illus, 13 ref

013879   Phetsombat S;Kruatrachue M;Pokethitiyook P; Upatham S (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bankok 10400, Thailand) : Toxicity and bioaccumulation of cadmium and lead in Salvinia cucullata. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 645-52.

Toxicity and accumulation of heavy metals, cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in aquatic fern, Salvinia cucullata were studied. Plants were cultured in Hoagland's medium which was supplemented with 0.5,1,2, and 4 mg/l of Cd and 5, 10, and 40 mg/l of Pb and were separately harvested after 2,4,6, and 8 days. The toxicity symptoms of Cd and Pb to S. cucullata showed chlorosis on leaves. There were significant derceases in the relative growth, biomass productivity and total chlorophyll content when the exposure time and concentration were increased. The accumulation study showed the significant increases of both metals when the exposure time and concentration were increased. The roots of S. cucullata had higher Cd and Pb contents than leaves suggesting that the metals were bound to the root cells and were partially transported to the leaves.

4 illus, 2 tables, 38 ref

013878   Perez-Fernandez M A;Calvo-Magro E; Ferrer-Castan D (Area de Ecologia, University Pablo de Olavide, Carretera de Utrera, 41013, Seville, Spain, Email: maperfer@upo.es) : Simulation of germination of pioneer species along an experimental drought gradient. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 679-85.

Germination of ten plant species from the lberian Peninsula was assessed along a water deficit gradient between - 0.1652 (moist and -0.4988 MPa (dry) of osmotic potential, created by addition of increasing concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) distilled water in which plants were grown hydroponically. The level and rate of germination of Daucus carota and Thapsia villosa significantly decreased with decreasing Ψ Seeds of Dactylis glomerata and Dittrichia viscosa had positive. germination responses to low osmotic potentials; germination of Epilobium hirsutum was not affected by osmotic potential. Germination of Medicago arabica, Cynosurus cristatus, Cistus ladanifer and Cistus albidus, was not favored by the addition of polyethylene glycol (PEG). Germination of Foeniculum vulgare and Thapsia villosa was inhibited by PEG.

3 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

013877   Pathak S K;Mukhopadhyay A (Entomology Research Unit, Department of Zoology, University of North Bengal-743 013, ) : Population variation in common thrips-Mycterothrips setiventric Bagnall (Thripidae: thysanoptera) on Darjeeling tea. J Plantn Crop 2005, 33(3), 210-5.

Population variation of Common thrips-Mycterothrips setiventris Bagnall was studied on two cultivars of tea, China seed jat and T 78 clone at mid (1200) and high (1650 m) elevations of Darjeeling hills. The pest population persisted throughout the plucking season in all the 3-years of this study (1999-2001) with two peaks, one each in April-May and another in second half of October. Population declined sharply in winter months and also in summer, especially in those months that experienced heavy shower. All developmental stages of M. setiventris were present on tea throughout the year with overlapping of generations. The pest preferred for china seed jat to the clone T 78, which has some Assam tea characters. Higher population abundance was observed at higher elevation than at low elevation. The combined and individual weather factors such as rainfall, maximum and minimum temperatures, morning and afternoon relative humidity and sunshine hours significantly influenced the variation in thrips population. Thrips survived even under pest control measures, but at a lower level. The heavy summer rains naturally controlled the pest, suggesting that no pest control measure was necessary during this period.

3 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

013876   Pangtey Y P S (Botany Dep, Kumaon Univ, D.S.B. Campus, Nainital-263 002, Email: y_pangtey@yahoo.com) : Matteuccia intermedia C. Chr. (Onocleaceae: Pteridophyta): an addition to the fern flora of India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 375-6.

^ssc13 ref

013875   Pangtey Y P S (Botany Dep, Kumanon Univ, D.S.B. Campus, Nainital-263 002, Email: y_pangtey@yahoo.com) : Deparia acuta (Ching) Fras.-Jenk. (Athyriaceae: Pteridophyta): a new record for Kumaon Himalaya. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 374-5.

^ssc9 ref

013874   Pangtey Y P S (Botany Dep, Kumanon Univ, D.S.B. Campus, Email: y_pangtey@yahoo.com) : Athyrium schimperi Moug. ex Fee (Athyriaceae: Pteridophyta) in India. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 372-73.

^ssc11 ref

013873   Pandey Y;Joshi H (Department of Botany, S.S.J. Campus of Kumaun University, Almora, (U.A.)) : Habitat study of algal vegetation of Almora with special reference to terrestrial forms. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 15-8.

Algae from soil and other terrestrial habitats were collected and described from Almora town and its vicinities. The distribution of Algal species was related to a combination of edaphic factors and to physiological characteristics of the plant. The soil flora includes representatives from Chlorophyceae, cyanophyceae and diatoms. In addition to soil other terrestrial habitats were tree trunks, rocks etc.

17 ref

013872   Pal A;Das S (Plant Molecular and Cellular Genetics, Bose Institute, Kolkata-700 054) : Arabinogalactan-proteins: role in plant tissue differentiation and commercial importance. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 312-20.

Arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs), a class of plasma membrane-associated proteoglycans, are implicated in the control of plant cell proliferation and differentiation. Functions of AGPs are being monitored using monoclonal antibodies in biochemical and immunolocalization studies and with synthetic phenyl glycosides, known as Yariv reagents that have the ability to bind to AGPs and to block their function within living cell. Presence of AGPs in the cotyledons of Vigna radiata was demonstrated through histo-chemical staining with Yariv reagent and also verified through gel electrophoretic study. The dose dependent phytohormone like effect in inducing in vitro regeneration from the cotyledon of V. radiata suggests the role of β-arabinogalactan as precursor molecule of AGP, a probable growth regulator. It is presumed that in vitro differentiation of recalcitrant plant species could be achieved through controlled regulation of this class of proteoglycans.

2 illus, 51 ref

013871   Omar A F;Habibuddin H;Sijam K;Ahmad Z A M; El-Banna O H M (Department of Plant Protection, Faculty of Agriculture, University Putra Malaysia, 43400 Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia, Email: omar12744@yahoo.com) : Differentation of two Egyptian isolates of spiroplasma citri based on 16s RDNA spiralin genses and 16s/23s RDNA intergenic spacer region. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 443-54.

Two Egyptian isolates of Spiroplasma citri (Fewa and Qualubia) were studied based on nucleotide sequences of their spiralin and 16S rDNA. genes and 16S/23S rDNA intergenic spacer region sequence. The 16S rDNA of the two isolates comprised 1529 nucleotides with a similarity between them at 99.80% where only two different nucleotides were observed. Both have more than 99.67% similarity to three published strains of S. citri, R8A2HP, Car4 and Car6. Their 16S/23S rDNA intergenic spacer region has 305 nucleotides, with a similarity of about 99.76 %, where only one nucleotide difference was observed. The 16S/23S nucleotide sequence of Fewa isolate was identical to that of strains 169, Maroc and ATCC 27556. Five nucleotide differences were observed in spiralin gene sequences of the two isolates, which has 99.30 % similarity. Both the two spiralins comprised 241 amino acids and only three amino acids differences were observed between them, and their amino acids similarity was about 98.75%. The findings indicated that both Fewa and Qualubia isolates have high similarity in thenucleotide sequences of their 16S rDNA, 16S/23S rDNA intergenic spacer region and the nucleotides and amino acids of spiralin gene. However, they were not identical and could be differentiated by using restriction enzyme Bfal that digested at the recognition site CTAG within their spiralin gene sequence.

9 illus, 4 tables, 27 ref

013870   Olmez Z;Gokturk A;Gulcu S (Artvin Faculty of Forestry, Kafkas University, 0800 Artvin, Turkey, Email: zaferolmez@yahoo.com) : Effects of cold stratification on germination rate and percentage of caper (Capparis ovata Desf.) seeds. J envir Biol 2006, 27(4), 667-70.

Caper is an important plant because of its high adaptability to marginal agriculture. fields that are not suitable for agicultural crops. Different parts of caper such as roots, fruits, flowers and buds can be used to increase the inhabitant's income. The goal of this research is to determine germination rate and percentage of caper according to different duration of cold stratification (10, 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days) treatments. Cold stratification procedures under greenhouse condition were applied for eliminating seed dormancy to find the most suitable germination conditions because the presence of seed dormancy causes difficulties in seedling production. The seed germination started and stopped 21 and 57 days after sowing, respectively. While the highest germination percentage (46.6%) was obtained in seeds that were cold stratified for 60 days, the lowest germination percentage (3.67%) was determined in control seeds.

2 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

013869   Negi K;Joshi H (Dept. of Botany, S.S.J. campus, Kumaun Univ, Almora, Uttaranchal) : Habitats of fresh water algae in Almora region of Kumaun Himalaya. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 139-42.

Algae of aquatic habitats of Almora region are described. Algae can maintain themselves at various aquatic habitats. their growth is affected by various climatic, topographic and other factors. Many mosses and liverworts presented a favourable habitat for algae, especially blue-green algae. Polluted waters were colonized by blue-greens like Oscillatoria, Phromidium and Nitzschia etc. Wherever water collects in temporary pools a slightly modified habitat was formed in which algae like oppourtunistic flagellates with rapid life-cycles proliferate. Flowing waters, shores, the rock surfaces, plant and animal surfaces, submerged plants, animals and soil etc. provided another habitat. The floating communities occurred as planktons (euplanktons or pseudoplanktens).

1 table, 11 ref

013868   Nair M C;Rajesh K P;Madhusoodanan P V (Botany Department, Calicut University, Calicut-673 635) : Little known Plagiochila (Dum.) Dum. (Plagiochilaceae: Hepaticae) from India. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 39-44.

Seven little known species of Plagiochila (Dum.) Dum. in India, viz.P.arbuscuta (Brid ex Lehm. & Lindenb.) Lindenb, P.sciophila Nees ex Lindenb.P.beddomei Steph.P.chinensis Steph.P.devexa Steph., P. ruitcosa Miltt. and P.parvifolia Lindenb has neen described. Among these, P.arbuscula (Brid. ex Lehm. & Lindenb.) Lindenb. is a new record for India and P.chinensis Steph, P.devexa Steph. and P.fruticosa Mitt. are new records for peninsular India.

4 illus, 22 ref

013867   Nagrajan S M;Rajshekharan S;Jeyachandaran R (Department of Boatny, Plant tissue Culture Unit, A V C College (Autonomous), Mannampandal, Mayiladuthuria-609 305) : In vitro studies on Swietenia mahagoni (L.) jacq.. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 473-4.

Effect of plant growth regulators on callus formation and multiple shoot induction was studied in Swietenia mahagoni(L) Jacq. For this MS basal media supplemented with plant growth regulators viz., NAA, 2,4-D and BAP in different combinations were used. Various explants such as petiole, leaf, stem, shoot tip and nodes were taken as standard explants. The best callusing efficiency was observed in all the three explants namely leaf, stem and petiole on basal media supplemented with 2,4-D (3 mg/L) + NAA (0.1 mg/L). The best multiple shoot forming capacity was observed in both shoot tip and axillary bud explants cultured on basal media with BAP (3 mg/L)+NAA (0.1 mg/L).

1 table, 8 ref

013866   Murugan K;Kaviyarasi P;Sarvana babu S (Post Graduate and research Department of Microbiology, K S Rangasamay College of arts and Science, Tiruchengode-637 209) : Antifungal activities of Cassia auriculata against aids isolate Candida Albicans and dermatophytes Epidermophyton floccossum, Geotrichum candidum and Trichophyton mentagraphytes. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 513-20.

Cassia auriculata. L .is a commonly growing plant as a natural weed in many parts of India. It has been widely used for curing skin infections, rheumatism, conjunctivitis, and diabetes in Indian folkloric tradition. Crude ethanol, acetone and water extracts of flowers of C. auriculata were tested for their anticandidial and antidermatophytic activity against Candida albicans isolated from AIDS oral thrush patients and the clinical isolates Epidermophyton floccossum, Trichophyton mentagraphytes and Geotrichum candidum. The acetone and water extracts were found to be highly inhibitory towards the growth and germ tube formation of pathogenic C .albicans. The susceptibility pattern of the isolates C. albicans were found to be sensitive to amphotericin (12mm) and itraconazole(20mm) and intermediate to fluconazole (12mm). The inhibitory actions exhibited by the extracts were comparable to the standard antibiotics. The growth and the mycelial formation of the dermatophytes E.floccossum, T. mentagraphytes and G. candidum were more affected by acetone extract of the plant. Both the C. albicans and the dermatophytes showed concentration dependent inhibition. The cell wall synthesis inhibition assay revealed the presence of antifungal cell wall active compound in the acetone extract. Based on the current findings, it can be concluded that further research on this plant could result in the discovery of novel cell wall active antifungal agent.

4 tables, 3 ref

013865   Muragan R;Rao R R (NO, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Rsource Centre, Allalasandra, GKVK Post, Bangalore-560 065, Email: rr_rao@vsnl.net) : Occurence of Phyllanthus scabricfolius Hook. f. in Amingad, Bagalkot district, Karnataka - a new distributional record. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 870-71.

1 illus, 3 ref

013864   Muniappan R;Viraktamath C A (Agtriculture Experimental Station, Guam Univ, Mangilao, Guam- 96923 USA, Email: viraktamath@rediffmail.com) : Asian cycad scale Aulocaspis yasumatsui, a threat to native cycads in India. Curr Sci 2006, 91(7), 868-70.

2 illus, 11 ref

013863   Mishra A K;Tewari D D (Ecology Research Laboratory, Department of Botany, M.l.K.(P.G.) college, Balrampur) : Floristic composition and biological spectrum of grasslands at Balrampur city. Vegetos 2005, 18(1-2), 79-82.

Biological spectrum of grasslands of Balrampur showed that out of the total 45 species, there were 29 Therophytes, 7 Geophytes, 5 Hemicryptophytes and 4 Chamaephytes. Phanerophytes were altogether absent. When compared with Raunkiaer's normal spectrum, the present study reveals a `Therogeophytic' phytoclimate of the area.

1 tables, 13 ref

013862   Mayla J;Diva S;Nagarajan S M;Chandrasekran R (Department of Botany & Microbiology, A V C College (Autonomous), Mannampandal, Mayiladuthuria-609 305, Email: myla782000@yahoo.co.in) : Azospirillum strains isolated from paddy fields. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(3), 479-82.

Attempt has been made to isolate strains of Azospirillum from paddy roots grown in various localities situated around 50 km radius of the study site-Poondi, Thanjavur district. The strains were studied with reference to morphological characters, effect of pH, utilization of carbon sources, biotin requirement, pigment production and lAA production. The studies revealed the existence of variation among the isolates of Azospirillum.

6 tables 13 ref

013861   Mathew B (Post Graduate Botany Dep, St. Peter's College, Kolenchery, Kerala-682 311) : Comparative study on the effect of rhizobium inoculation on imbibed seeds and germinated seeds of Phaseolus mungo. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 49-50.

Rhizobium inoculation on emerging radicle of Phaseolus mungo is highly effective in nodulation and biomas production when compared to inoculation on imbibed seeds.

3 tables, 7 ref

013860   Manoharachary C;Kunwar I K;Sharath Babu K (Boatny Department, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007) : Rhizosphere - the hidden ecological niche and hot spot. Proc Natn Acad Sci India-Sect B 2006, 76(4), 321-42.

Rhizosphere is a well recognised and specialised ecological niche for fungi, bacteria, actinomycetes and other microbes. Rhizosphere is the narrow zone of soil around roots supporting diversified microorganisms, and is influenced by root exudates, soil factors, age and type of host plant and molecular signals. Rhizosphere effect, the stimulating effect of the roots on the microorganisms is indicated by the interaction of soil and rhizosphere microbes and their ratio. Interacting microorganisms contribute to crop productivity and soil fertility.Organic compounds released by the roots and microbes dominate the rhizosphere. Microbial metabolites accumulated in the rhizosphere include plant growth regulators, antibiotics, phytotoxins, soil stabilisers, siderophores, enzymes and molecular signals which affect the microbial activity, composition of microflora in the rhizosphere and the activity of plant roots. Among the microorganisms present in the rhizosphere, symbiotic fungi and bacteria are the most important for the development and growth of the plant, especially for their role in phosphorus mobilization and biological nitrogen fixation.Antagonistic and industrially important fungi are also present in the rhizosphere. Biological control of plant pathogens by rhizosphere microbes may be based on the production of their metabolites such as antibiotics, siderophores, and hydrogen cyanide. In recent times most of the microbiologists and mycologists have diverted their attention towards molecular aspects and biotechnology, thus neglecting rhizosphere microbial ecology which is a hidden wealth and hot spot.

3 tables, 204 ref

013859   Manickam V S;Benniamin A;Harikrishnan S (Centre for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, St. Xavier's College, Palyamkottai-627 002) : Pteris heteromorpha fee pteridaceae: a new distributional record for Andhra Pradesh. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 377-8.

^ssc1 illus, 2 ref

013858   Maity D;Pradhan N;Chauhan A S (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Circle, Gangtok-737 103) : Nervilia infundibulifolia Blatter and Mccann (Orchidaceae) : a new record from Sikkim Himalaya. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 368-9.

^ssc1 illus

013857   Maity D;Chauhan A S;Maiti G G (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Sikkim Himalayan Circle, Gangtok-737 103) : Bulbophyllum reptans (Lindl.) Lindl. (Orchidaceae): a crtical study. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2005, 102(3), 369-71.

^ssc1 illus, 9 ref

013856   Maheshwari H K (NO, , 96/D-2228, Indira Nagar, Lucknow-226 016, Email: harimaheshwari@sify.com) : Family Hirmeriellaceae nom. nov.. Geophytology 2005, 35(1-2), 101-2.

^ssc9 ref

013855   Mahendra M;Lokesh S;Ravishanakar Rai R (Studies in Applied Botany Dep, Seed Pathology and Biotechnology, University of Mysore, Mysore- 570 006) : Evaluation of some forest tree seed samples for mycoflora and their management in vitro. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(1), 167-71.

In order to evaluate the effect of different fungal species on nursery seedlings, seeds of different forest tree species were screened in the laboratory for the occurrence of fungi. Seed samples of different forest tree species like Gmelina arborea, Bauhinea variegata, Dalbergia latifolia and Hardwikia bipinnata were screened for the occurrence of fungal species. Seeds treated with hot water at 50°C showed enhancement in the percentage of germination. Seeds treated with 0.2% Bavistin showed maximum reduction in the incidence of fungi, there by enhanced the germination to a greater extent. In the seed samples, different fungi like Aspergillus niger, A.flavus, A. flavus-oryzae, A. columnaris, A. ochraceus, Penicillium spp. Fusarium moniliforme, F. solani and F. oxysporum were recorded at variout levels. Leaf extracts of Azadirachta indica, Clerodendron inerme, Tridax procumbens and Plumbago zeylanica showed little effect on mycoflora. Comparatively, the best results were obtained with the seeds treated with 0.2% Bavistin. Seedlings of Gmelina arborea and Bauhinea variegata raised in nursery beds showed high incidence of leaf blight. Powdery mildew in Bauhinea varigata and Fusarium wilt in Hardwickia bipinnata were also noticed at high incidence. In Dalbergia latifolia dead seedlings showed high incidence of Aspergillus flavus-oryzae.

5 tables, 7 ref

013854   Mahajan S;Sopory S K;Tuteja N (Plant Molecular Biology, International Centre for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Aruna Asaf Ali Marg, New Delhi-110 067, Email: narendra@icgeb.res.in) : CBLPK paradigm: role in calcium and stress signaling in plants. Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2006, 72(2), 63-78.

Tolerance or susceptibility to abiotic stresses in plants is a coordinated action of various genes including those encoding calcium binding proteins and other components of stress signal transduction pathways. These components may cross talk with each other, however still little information is available on this aspect. Calcium ions (Ca²⁺) function as a major secondary-messenger signaling molecule, which plays a fundamental role in plant growth and development under normal as well as stress conditions. In general, stress signals results in cytosolic Ca²⁺ perturbations, which are unique and precisely decoded by Ca²⁺ sensing proteins to relay the signaling cascade. The relatively recently discovered calcium sensor calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs), and their interacting partners CBL-interacting protein kinases (CIPKs), have emerged as key network that plays an important role in plants in response to calcium and stress signaling. CIPK initiates a phospho-rylation cascade and can regulate the expression of major genes involved in/imparting stress tolerance. In this review we have focused on the various aspects of calcineurin signaling networks in yeast in relation to salt stress, historical background of plant CBL and CIPK proteins and an up to date coverage of their structure, localization, genomic organization, and expression profiles under stress conditions. Furthermore, hypothetical models depicting the role of CBL-CIPK in stress signaling are described. Future aspects to explore and solve the complexity of this pathway are also covered.

5 illus, 1 table, 81 ref

013853   Mahadevamurty S;Prakash H S;Shetty H S (Microbiology Dep, Yuvaraja's College, Mysore-570 005) : Effect of spore suspensions and culture filtrates of antagonists on the development of Ergot on pearl millet. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2006, 8(2), 393-8.

In order to prevent the development of ergot (Claviceps fusifprmis Loveless) on peart millet Pennisetum glaucum {L) R. Br.) spore suspensions and culture filtrates of antagonists-Aspergillus niger, Epicoccum andropogonis, Fusarium chlamydosporum, F, heterosporum, Trichoderma harzianum, T. viride and Bacillus subtilis were applied as sprays under field conditions. Increases in spore concentration of antagonists decreased the formation of sclerotia. The aqueous suspension (10⁴ ml^-1) and different concentrations of culture filtrate of the antagonists reduced the incidence of ergot on bagged earheads irrespective of time of spray vis-a-vis inoculation of the pathogen. They were also effective in reducing the ergot incidence on unbagged earheads. The germination of sclerotia collected from the earheads sprayed with spore suspension was low. The slcerotia collected from the earheads sprayed with culture filtrate of antagonists also showed reduced germination percentage.

5 tables, 16 ref