009720   Tomar A;Singh H (Department of Botany, Meerut College, Meerut-250 001) : Effect of L-arginine monohydrochloride, phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride, salcylic acid cinnamic acid on seed germination and seedling growth of chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) CV JG 62. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 787-93.

Seeds of chickpea (Cicer arietinum Linn.) were germinated with distilled water alone or supplemented with different plant growth regulators (PGRs), that is, L-Arginine monohydrochloride (NH₂C(NH) NH (CH₂)₃. CH (NH₂) COOH.HC}, Salicylic acid {C₆H₄ (OH) (COOH)}, Phenyl hydrazine hydrochloride (C₆H₅NHNH₃+CL-), and Cinnamic acid (C₆H₅CH=CH-COOH). It has been noticed that these substance in low concentrations promote the seed germination and seedling growth in chickpea.

1 illus, 5 tables, 12 ref

009719   Tomar A;Singh H (Department of Botany, Meerut College, Meerut (U.P)) : Ethno-therapeutics of some medicinal plants from khatauli block of Muzaffarnagar district, (U.P.) India. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 639-41.

In the paper 30 taxa of medicinal plants collected from Khatauli block of Muzaffarnagar district. These medicinal angiospermic plants species belong to 22 families and 29 genera. The authors were collected first hand information on the local ethno-medicinal claims of plants pertaining to various diseases. Ethno-medicinal uses of plants have been gathered from villagers, common people, vaidhyas and medicinemen of the area reported for the first time.

1 table, 12 ref

009718   Tandon S;Ajai Kumar;Kahol A P;Yadav A;Kidwai A R (Process and Product Development, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow-226 015) : Production and composition of concrete and absolute from the Jasminum sambac flowers of Lucknow Region. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 227-30.

Jasmine concrete and absolute obtained from flowers is nowadays a general ingredient for modern perfumery. Different aspects of processing of jasmine flowers growing in the vicinity of Lucknow for production of concrete and absolute have been studied. The essential oil and absolute has been analyzed for their chemical constituents by GC and GC-MS. The major constituents of absolute were identified as benzyl alcohol (11.21%), benzyl acetate (17.80%), α-farnesene (9.51%), and 3- hexenyl benzoate (4.67%).

1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

009717   Tamuli P;Boruah P;Saikia R (Department of Botany, Darrang College, Tezpur-784 001) : Mycofloral study of the phyllosphere and soil of agarwood tree plantation. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 695-7.

Phyllosphere and soil mycoflora of agarwood tree plantation were studied when plants were growing under natural conditions. Ten fungal genera were isolated from the phyllosphere of agarwood tree where Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium are the dominant genera, seven fungal genera were isolated. Most of the dominant genera isolated from soil were Aspergillus, Fusarium and Penicillium. The fungal population decreased with the depth of soil.

2 tables, 7 ref

009716   Sushil Kumar;Mishra M N;Singh S K;Yadav R; Sirohi S P S (Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, R.B.S. College, Bichpuri, Agra-285 123) : Studies on variability parameters for grain yield per plant in gamma rays induced M<. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 619-21.

An investigation was carried out at the Agriculture Research Farm of R. B. S. College, Bichpuri (Agra) in kharif 2001 to assess the variability among gamma rays induced M₂, population of K-851 variety of mung bean for grain yield per plant. The analysis of variance revealed that the plant population differed significantly under 5 kR, 25 kR, 30 kR, (dry), 10 kR (pre-soaked) and 25 kR (post-soaked treatments). The estimates of CV were higher under most of the treatments, while the estimates of σ²e, σ²g, and σ²p, were lower under all the treatments. The highest estimates of GCV, PCV, h2(b) and GA were obtained under 30 kR significantly followed by that under 10 kR pre-soaked and the lowest (000) under presoaked control, 5 kR (pre-soaked) and 30 kR (post-soaked) treatments.

2 tables, 5 ref

009715   Suresh S N;Latha K V;Sathish Kumar N H; Saravanakumar A (PG and Research Department of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Coimbatore-641 029, Email: snsureshphd@yahoo.co.in) : Screening for antibacterial and antifungal activity of some selected medicanl plants. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 683-4.

The whole plant of Costus speciosus (Zingiberaceae) Neolitsea scorbiculata (Laureaceae) and Ophiophogon intermedius (Convallariaceae) were subjected for Soxhlet extraction by using methanol. The crude extracts have been studied for antimicrobial activity against human pathogenic bacteria and fungal pathogens. The methanol extracts exhibited moderate antibacterial and antifungal activity against the test pathogens. The methanol extracts exhibited moderate antibacterial and antifungal activity against the test pathogens.

1 table, 4 ref

009714   Suganya W;Sashi V;Malathy N S (Department of Botany, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore-4, Email: suma_anne@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of pH on the xylanase production by Aspergillus spp. on wheat bran xylan. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 599-600.

Seven different Aspergillus sps, namely Aspergillus terreus, Aspergillus fumigatus, Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus oryzae, Aspergillus wentii, Aspergillus awamori, Aspergillus nidulans were grown in Czapek's dox medium of varied pH viz 5.4-7.0 containing wheat bran xylan as carbon source. Based on the pH study the xylanase production of each species was studied.

1 illus, 12 ref

009713   Srivastava R (Department of Botany, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005, Email: srivastava_252003@yahoo.com) : Weed population and seed banks in a dryland agroecosystem : impact of differing tillage and residue management. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 835-9.

Weed population and their soil seed bank composition were studied in rice based tropical dryland agroecosystem under four tillage and residue management treatments (CT-R, conventional tillage residue removed; CT+R, conventional tillage residue retained; ZT-R, zero tillage residue removed; ZT+R, zero tillage residue retained). Altering tillage and residue management practices caused a shift in the dominance of weed species. Numbers of grass weeds were considerably greater in ZT+R treatment compared to CT-R. However, in case of broad leaf weeds the reverse was true. Total weed density was greater in ZT+R followed by ZT-R, CT+R and CT-R. The crop density was decreased from CT-R to ZT+R treatments. Grass weeds produced small rounded seeds, which were present in greater number in zero tillage treatment at upper layer of soil due to no plowing. In conventional tillage, broad leaf weeds produced comparatively larger seeds, which were present in both soil depths. About 90% of seeds were present in the upper layer of soil in zero tillage treatment, whereas in conventional tillage only 66% of seeds were present in this layer. Appropriate weed management with ZT+R treatment should be helpful in controlling the incidence of weeds within few years.

1 illus, 4 tables, 19 ref

009712   Sritharan N;Vanangamudi M (Department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: sritnau@yahoo.co.in) : Screening rice genotypes for salt tolerance. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 815-8.

The study employing eight rice varieties was aimed to screen different rice varieties for salt tolerance. The laboratory experiment was conducted at the Department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The laboratory studies showed that germination, shoot length, root length and vigour index of all the rice seedling varieties decline with increase in NaCl concentration, from 0.00 M to 0.04 M. The laboratory studies revealed that the genotype CO 43 was tolerant to salt stress when compared to other varieties such as ADT 38, ADT 39, CO 47, ADTRH 1, White Ponni, GEB 624 and IR 20. The genotype CO 43 recorded higher germination percentage, vigour index, total chlorophyll content, chlorophyll stability index, total soluble protein content, nitrate reductase activity and proline content when compared to other varieties at 0.02 M NaCl concentration.

4 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

009711   Sritharan N;Anitha R;Rajavel M;Karthik M; Vanangamudi M (Department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu-641 003, Email: sritnau@yahoo.co.in) : Physiological manipulation for yield improvement in blackgram (Vigna radiata L.) through foliar sprays of chemicals and plant growth regulator. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 803-6.

Study was conducted in the department of Crop Physiology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore to investigate the physiological and biochemical effects of foliar spray of chemicals and plant growth regulator on yield and productivity of blackgram. The treatments consisting of foliar sprays of DAP 2%, Salicylic acid 100 ppm + DAP 2% + KC11%, salicylic acid 100 ppm + DAP 2% + Boric acid 0.2% + FeSO₄ 0.5% + ZnSO₄ 0.5%, Na₂NoO₄ 0.05%, urea 1%, urea foliar spray (equivalent N content as in DAP), humic acid 20 kg soil application + 0.1% humic acid foliar spray, K.Cl 1% + humic acid 20 kg/ha as soil application + 0.1% foliar spray, KCl 1% + humic acid 20 kg/ha as soil application, Brassinosteroid 0.1 ppm, and control. Among all the treatments, foliar spray of 1% urea had the profound effect in improving the total chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, NRase activity and also recorded the highest grain yield of 955.20 kg/ha. The yield enhancement may be due to the improved morphological, physiological, biochemical and yield parameters viz., Plant height, chlorophyll content, soluble protein content, NRase activity, number of pods per plant, grain yield and HI.

2 tables, 17 ref

009710   Spencer P B S;Hampton J;Lapidge S J;Mitchell J;Lee J;Pluske J R (NO, School of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia 6150) : An assessment of the genetic diversity and structure within and among populations of wild pigs (Sus scrofa) from Australia and Papua New Guinea. J Genet 2006, 85(1), 63-6.

1 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

009709   Sivasankaramoorthy S;Chellappan K P (Department of Botany, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Enzymes studies in Bruguiera conjugata and Ceriops roxburghiana under NaCl stress. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 733-5.

Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of different concentrations of sodium chloride ranging from 100 to 1000 mM on the activities of certain enzymes in the seedlings of Bruguiera conjugata and Ceriops roxburghiana. The upper limit of NaCl salinity for the survival of the seedlings of B. conjugata and C. roxburghiana was 750 mM and 600 mM respectively and the optimum level for the better growth was 500 mM and 400 mM respectively. Beyond, these concentrations the growth rate sharply declined in both species. The shoot length, root length, leaf area and dry weight increased upto the optimum concentration in both species. NaCl treatment stimulated the activities of ATPase and NRase upto the extreme salinity in both species. However, catalase, peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities increased upto the optimal concentrations and at higher concentrations showed decreasing trend in both species.

1 table, 16 ref

009708   Sirohi S P S;Yadav R;Malik S (Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Kisan (P.G.) College, Simbhaoli, Ghaziabad (U.P.)) : Genetic variability, correlations and path coefficient analysis for seed yield and its component character in pea [pisum sativum L.]. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 737-40.

An experiment was conducted on 25 genotypes of pea revealed significant variations for all the characters under study. Plant height had highest estimates of phenotypic as well as genotypic coefficients of variation. The estimates of PCV were higher than the estimates of GCV for all the thirteen characters. Seed yield showed positive and significant association with protein percentage (0.458*), while the biological yield per plant showed highest and significant association with harvest index (0.628*) at phenotypic level. Among the interne associations days to flowering with days to maturity (0.591**), number of pods per plant (0.426**), pod length (0.405*) and number of primary branches with plant height (0.446**) number of pods per plant (0.457*), pod length (0.519*) and plant height with pod length (0.521**) harvest index (0.445*) and plant height with number of pods per plant (0.420*) showed positive and significant associations at phenotypic level. The number of seeds per pod exhibited highest (3.558) direct effects towards seed yield at genotypic level. Hence, maximum weightage should be given to number of seeds per pod during selection programme for yield improvement in pea.

3 tables, 13 ref

009707   Sirohi S P S;Malik S;Yadav R S;Sandeep; Meenakshi (Department of Genetics, Plant Breeding Kisan (P.G.) College, Simbhaoli, Ghaziabad (U.P.)) : Genetic divergence in pea (Pisum sativum L.). Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 799-801.

An experiment was conducted on 25 genotypes of pea to measure genetic distances among genotypes using D² statistics for yield and its component characters. The cultivars were grouped into seven clusters. The maximum number of genotypes were found in clusters I and V each having five genotypes, while, minimum two genotypes in each clusters IV and VII. Maximum genetic distance was recorded between cluster III and VII (6.179) followed by IV and VII (5.535) suggesting wide diversity among these groups. Considering cultivars of I (UDR-59,DDR-44,DDR-63, PUSA-10) and VII (PC-99, DDR-55) are likely to recombine genes for higher yield.

3 tables, 11 ref

009706   Singhvi N R;Kodandaramaiah J;Kumar J S;Rekha M (NO, Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Srirampura, Mysore-570 008, Email: nrsinghvi@rediffmail.com) : Effectiveness of phalda on growth and leaf yield in mulberry. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 757-8.

A study was undertaken to see the effectiveness of foliar application of Phalda - a herbal plant growth promoter on growth and leaf yield of mulberry. Phalda application (0.5%) produced variety specific results. In case of variety K2, S13 and S34 response was positive on growth parameters, except plant height, leaf yield and above ground biomass production. Leaf yield increased by 4.37% in variety K2, 17.85% in variety S13 and 10.26% in variety S34. In case of varieties S36 and VI growth parameters, leaf yield and above ground biomass production were negatively affected by foliar spray of Phalda. Leaf yield reduction was noticed to extent of 13.27% in S36 and 42.76% in VI variety. Results Vividly indicated that before recommending application of Phalda for use in any mulberry variety its efficacy may also be tested on silkworms by bioassay studies. Work on this direction is under progress.

1 table, 2 ref

009705   Singh S;Ghoshal N (Department of Botany, Centre of Advanced Study, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005) : Effect of cultivation on major physical and chemical properties of soil. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 611-13.

A three year field experiment was conducted to evaluate the impact of cultivation on the major chemical and physical properties of soil in a dryland ecosystem. The crop sequence in cultivated plots were rice-barley-summer fallow. Continuous cultivation for three years resulted in a slight tendency of decrease in pH, bulk density and water holding capacity of soil. Total nitrogen, organic carbon and soil organic matter, however, showed significant decrease due to cultivation. The major factors leading to depletion of soil organic matter due to cultivation were reduction in addition of aboveground litter and belowground root detritus to soil and disturbances due to tillage.

1 table, 21 ref

009704   Singh L;Vats P (Department of Microbiology, D.P.M.C., Dehradun, Uttaranchal) : Update of aeromycological research in India with emphasis on future challenges. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 399-421.

Biotic pollution, complex in origin and varied in effect, is caused by an array of bio-particles of plant and animal origin and exacts a much greater harm than previously thought. Since 1933, Biology of air in general and aeromycology in particular has widened in meaning and scope making inroads from agricultural in to medical to paramedical arena becoming interdisciplinary subject with health hazards to both plant and animal systems including their produce and offers formidable challenges and unanswered questions. Since air quality in most Indian cities is at critical levels, the problem has gigantic proportion and cuts efficiency, comfort and life of people shorter, necessitating an update on the subject under reference to be used by prospective workers.

^iia12 tables, 368 ref

009703   Singh L;Ranjana;Savita, (Deparment of Botany, Meerut College, Meerut (Uttar Pradesh)) : Ceremonial plants used by ethnic people of east Sikkim. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 723-4.

Note describes sacred plants used by Lepchas, Bhutias and Nepalese of East Sikkim for the purpose of Pooja and other ceremonies.

1 table, 9 ref

009702   Singh J;Tripathi A;Rajani Gandha;Singh S C; Jain S P;Sharma A;Khanuja S P S (NO, Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow-226 015) : Traditional uses of Glycyrrhiza glabra (Mulethi/Yastimadhu). J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 263-9.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

009701   Singh D;Roshan Lal;Singh R (Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004) : Effect of ginger, Zingiber officinale methanol extract and its fractions on the ovipositional behaviour and hatchability of Earias vittella. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 219-23.

Laboratory experiment conducted with different concentrations of methanol extract (2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10%) and its fractions (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0%) in choice, no-choice and without actual contact methods revealed that number of eggs laid under choice condition ranged from 20.66 eggs (10% methanol extract) to 60.66 eggs (0.5% acetone fraction) in treated substrate whereas in untreated substrate, it ranged from 29.33 eggs (2.0% chloroform fraction) to 61.33 eggs (0.5% acetone fraction). Per cent reduction over untreated areas was highest in 10 per cent methanol extract. Under no-choice condition it ranged from 51.33 to 91.66 eggs in 10 per cent methanol extract and 0.5 per cent benzene fraction, respectively. In without actual contact method, it varied from 55.33 to 95.33 eggs. When adults were allowed to feed on sucrose diet containing different concentrations of methanol extract and its fractions, number of eggs laid, ranged from 61.00 eggs (2.0% chloroform fraction) to 111.66 eggs in 0.5 per cent acetone fraction and hatching ranged from 50.33 per cent in 2.0 per cent benzene fraction to 74.18 per cent in 2.5 per cent methanol extract. Therefore, extracts and fractions of ginger showed moderate effects on fecundity and hatchability of Earias vittella.

3 tables, 20 ref

009700   Shylaja M;Nishitha I K;Renjana P K (Department of Botany, Providence women's College, Calicut-9, Email: shylaravi@sify.com) : Comparative root anatomy of Sida species as 'Bala' in ayurveda. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 203-8.

Anatomical studies on the roots of some of Sida species used as 'Bala' in Ayurveda and a few related species used as substitutes and adulterants (S. acuta, S. alnifolia, S. cordata, S. cordifolia, S. fryxellii, S. mysorensis, S. rhomboidea, and S. scabrida) were carried out in order to develop anatomical profiles for distinguishing the genuine Bala from the substitutes. The main characters on the basis of which the species differ are 1) amount of bast fibres, 2) nature of fibre groups, 3) distribution of crystals, 4) nature of secondary xylem and 5) nature of medullary rays. The two species - S. alnifolia and S. cordifolia used as Bala in Kerala and N. India respectively are found to differ much in their root anatomical characters. The study helps in the identification of different species based on anatomical characters, which can be used in the identification of the genuine drug Bala.

2 tables, 8 ref, 1 plate

009699   Shrivastava S;Barik R;Mishra N;Vengurlekar S; Shrikarthi G;Revathi S;Jain S (NO, Smriti College of Pharmaceutical Education, 4/1, Piplia Kumar Kakad Mayakhedi Road, Indore-452 001, Email: satyaendra_brncp@yahoo.co.in) : Review on herb-drug interactions. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 423-8.

A review was undertaken to explore the myth regarding the safety of herbal drugs. Various studies have proved toxic results produced by some herbal drugs, which may be due to a direct action or due to interference with food or other drugs in case of concurrent intake. Interaction profile of herbal drugs with some commonly used drugs categories was studied for the possible effect that included potentiation or reduction of the pharmacological action of the drug or enhancing systemic toxic effects of conventional pharmaceutical drugs. On the basis of this study and many recent researches done in this field, it can be concluded that rigorous scientific studies of the phyto-constituents should be carried out to establish the safety, efficacy and standards of herbal drugs so as to minimize the chances of possible interactions.

^iia1 table, 27 ref

009698   Shirwaikar A;Prabhu K S;Punitha I S R (Department of Pharmacognosy, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal-576 104, Email: annieshirwaikar@yahoo.com) : In vitro antioxidant studies of Sphaeranthus indicus (Linn). Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(12), 993-6.

Free radical scavenging potential of the plant S. indicus was studied by using different antioxidant models of screening. The ethanolic extract at 1000 μg/ml showed maximum scavenging of the radical cation, 2,2-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) observed upto 41.99% followed by the scavenging of the stable radical 1,1-diphenyl, 2-picryl hydrazyl (DPPH) (33.27%). superoxide dismutase (25.14%) and nitric oxide radical (22.36%) at the same concentration. However, the extract showed only moderate scavenging activity of iron chelation (14.2%). Total antioxidant capacity of the extract was found to be 160.85 nmol/g ascorbic acid. The results justify the therapeutic applications of the plant in the indigenous system of medicine, augmenting its therapeutic value.

2 illus, 27 ref

009697   Senthil Kumar T;Swaminathan V;Sadasakthi A; Balasubramanian R (NO, Agricultural College & Research Institute, Madurai-625 104) : Influence of nitrogen and phosphorus along with biofertilizers on yield, constituents of essential oil and soil available nutrients of davana (Artemisia pallens). J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 182-6.

Experiment was carried out at agriculture college and Research Institutes Madurai, to study the influence of nitrogen, phosphorus and biofertilizers on yield, constituents of essential oil and soil available nutrients of davana. The study revealed that application of nitrogen 93.75 kg ha^-1, phosphorus 93.75 kg ha^-1 and Azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 gave the highest herbage yield of 17.93 and 19.35 t ha^-1, essential oil content 0.189 and 0.210 per cent and essential oil yield 22.96 and 27.54 kg ha^-1 in main and ratoon crop of Davana, respectively. Application of inorganic nutrients and biofertilizers did not have any significant effect on essential oil constituents of davana. Application of nitrogen @ 125.0 kg ha^-1, phosphorus @125.0 kg ha^-1 and Azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 recorded the highest soil available nitrogen (161.1 and 152.2 kg ha^-1) and potassium (431.0 and 404.4 kg ha^-1), whereas application of nitrogen @125.0 kg ha^-1 and phosphorus @125.0 kg ha^-1 along with VAM @ 2 kg ha^-1 gave the highest soil available phosphorus of 29.5 and 23.5 kg ha^-1 in both main and ratoon crop, respectively.

3 tables, 15 ref

009696   Selvakumari A;Sivasubramaniam K;Vijayakumar A;Sujatha K (Department of Plant Breeding & Genetics, Seed Science & Technology Uni, Agricultural College & Research Institite, Madurai-625 104) : Studies on seed development and maturation in China aster (Callistephus chinensis L. nees) cv. poornima. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 663-5.

Physiological maturity studies were conducted in china aster cv. poornima at 5 days interval up to 45 days after anthesis. The seeds obtained from each stage of development was evaluated for several physiological and physical parameters. The result revealed that seeds obtained from flowers harvested 40 DAA recorded higher germination (63%) and vigour index (416). It can be concluded that the china aster seeds attain physiological maturity at 40 DAA and can harvested for obtaining seed of higher quality.

1 table, 18 ref

009695   Sathya Prasad K;Rajadurai S;Shekhar M A; Kariappa B K (NO, Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Srirampura, Mysore-8) : Field evaluation of Trichogramma chilonis Ish. (Hymenoptera: trichogrammatidae)-An egg paraitoid of leaf roller, Diaphania pulverulentalis H. (Lepidoptera : pyralidae). Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 597-8.

Leaf roller, Diaphania pulverulentalis is one of the major pests which attack mulberry in the three southern sericultural states viz., Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu causing considerable yield loss. In the study, Trichogramma chilonis an egg parasitoid was evaluated in mulberry garden at farmers level and is found to suppress the pest by 23.26%. The results are discussed in the light of extent of damage caused by the pest and the extent of suppression by the parasitoid and its role in development of an integrated management package against leaf roller.

1 illus, 10 ref

009694   Saraswathy A;Chandran R V P;Vijaylakshmi R (NO, Captain Srinivasa Murti Drug Research Institute for Ayurveda, Arumbakkam, Chennai-600 106) : Pharmacognostic studies on Peristrophe paniculata. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 209-15.

Peristrophe paniculata is commonly known as Nagananda in Tamil and Atrilal in Hindi. Roots are used for skin diseases, fever and wounds. It grows over the waste lands. There is no report on the pharmacognostic study of the plant. The investigation deals with the anatomical, quantitative microscopic characters, histochemical, physico-chemical and fluorescence analysis of the whole plant. The study revealed the important diagnostic characters such as diacytic stomata, uniseriate and glandular trichome base, cystoliths, prismatic crystals of calcium oxalate, uni and biseriate ray parenchyma. It also showed the presence of negligible amount of inorganic matter and more of polar secondary metabolites in the plant.

9 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

009693   Sarada S;Reghunath B R;Vijayraghavakumar (Department of Plantation Cropsand Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani-695 522, Email: reghunathbr@rediffmail.com) : Genetic analysis in Indian indigo (Indigofera tinctoria). J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 174-7.

Phenotypic correlation, genotypic correlation, genotypic co-efficient of variation (GCV), phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), heritability and genetic advance (GA) for 18 characters were analysed in 30 geographical accessions of Indigofera tinctoria. Shoot yield was correlated with leaf dry weight, leaf area index and leaf area and lower glycoside content and indigo content. For most of the characters, heritability values were high and ranged from 51.35 per cent to 99.09 per cent. Dry weight of leaves, dry weight of shoot, net assimilation rate, leaf area duration, dry weight of root, leaf area and leaf area index showed high heritability. Heritability values were low for dry weight of pods. Genetic advance values were high only for four characters viz. dry weight of roots, crude indigo content, dry weight of leaves and net assimilation rate. In the investigation, dry weight of leaves, dry weight of root, net assimilation rate, harvest index (root yield) and crude indigo content showed high heritability and high GA.

3 tables, 8 ref

009692   Sanjay Kumar;Dhiman A K;Parveen R;Bhargava A K (Department of Botany, M.S. College, Saharanpur-247 001) : Ethnomedicinal use of plants from Ghar area of district Saharanpur (U.P.), India. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 725-7.

Deals with ethnomedicinal use of plants occurring in Ghar area of district Saharanpur (Uttar Pradesh). Many plants are used by tribal people of some parts of district viz. Badshahi bagh, Behat, Khadar, Mohand, Muzzaffarabad, Sakumbari, Sadoli kadim, Timly. Tribal population mostly Guzzars & others uses these plant to cure many diseases.

1 table, 9 ref

009691   Sakarkar D M;Gonsalvis L;Fatima F;Khandelwal L K;Jaiswal B;Pardeshi M D (NO, , Sakarkar Niwas, Namuna Lane-2, Amravati-444 602, Email: dsakarkar@rediffmail.com) : Turmeric : an excellent traditional herb. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 451-8.

Turmeric is an important spice among the rice-eating peoples of India, South East Asia and Indonesia and is indispensable in the preparation of curry powder. Turmeric is also a well-known remedy in the ancient Indian traditional medicines and cosmetics. It serves as a multipurpose herbal remedy for practitioners of Avurveda. Siddha, Unani and practitioners of traditional Chinese medicine. Turmeric is also used in these systems for inflammatory conditions including asthma, dysmenorrhoea (painful menstruation), psoriasis (an inflammatory skin disease), eczema and arthritis, hepatic and digestive disorders and for prevention and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. The uses of turmeric in Unani medicine system include liver obstruction, dropsy, and jaundice; externally used for ulcers and inflammation. Turmeric is also used in Himalayan medicine system for contraception, swelling, insect stings, wounds, whooping cough, inflammation, internal injuries, pimples, injuries, as a skin tonic. Turmeric therapeutic components are thought to be its polyphenolic compounds- curcuma oil (particularly dl-ar-turmerone) and various curcuminoids, especially curcumin, which exhibits a wide range of biological activities. Studies need to be initiated to evaluate its suitable percentage for use in several formulations such as liquid formulations cosmetic creams, moisturizers and gel formulation etc. What also need to be assessed are the therapeutic and cosmeticeutical advantages that turmeric may offer. In the future, investigation is required and attempt should be made to use turmeric as an excipient in the various formulations of pharmaceutical and cosmetic dosage forms.

^iia36 ref

009690   Renuka R;Rathinavel S (Department of Biochemistry, V.V.V.College for Women, Virudhunagar, Tamilnadu, Email: renu_vvvc@rediffmail.com) : Alleviating potential of seaweed liquid extract of Enteromorpha prolifera on salt induced changes in cluster bean plants. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 845-8.

Cluster bean plants subjected to 8 dsm^-1 of NaCl were treated with predetermined growth promoting effective concentration of SLE (10%) of E. prolifera. Salinized Plants showed reduction in shoot and root length, dry and fresh weights, leaf area and number, amount of chlorophyll and protein and the activity of nitrate reductase as compared to control. But the application of SLE subsequent to salt stress reduced such damaging effects at considerable level. Other biochemical constituents such as free aminoacids, proline, sugars and ascorbic acid and the activity of oxidizing enzymes like catalase and superoxide dismutase which increased on salt stress showed reduction with the application of SLE and the values were found almost on par with control. These observations implicate the stress alleviating capacity of SLE of E. prolifera as soil conditioner by its potential to retain moisture content and minerals. Moreover, the utilization of seaweed liquid extract may be considered as suitable substitute for chemical fertilizers and eco-friendly competent practice for reclamation of salt affected soils.

2 tables, 30 ref

009689   Reddy C V C M;Sinha B;Reddy A V V (Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005) : Estimation of heterosis and inbreeding depression in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 557-62.

Plant material consisted of parental inbred lines, their F₁ hybrids and F₂ population using randomized complete block design with three replications. Data were recorded on yield and yield contributing characters. Significant genetic differences were observed among the parents, their F₁ hybrids and F₂ population for all the characters under study. It can be concluded from the study that RES 834-1, RHA 587 and PARRUN 1329 were chosen as a parent to cross with other lines for the future breeding programmes. The hybrid ARG x RHA 587 showed minimum significant negative heterobeltiosis and inbreeding depression.

3 tables, 20 ref

009688   Ravikumar M;Krishnan R;Joshi S;Kattimani K N (NO, Kittur Rani Channamma College of Horticulture, Arabhavi-591 310) : Comparative tuber anatomy and histochemistry of parents, hybrid, backcross and standard check in Coleus forskohlii. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2006, 28(2), 178-81.

Histological studies were conducted during 1995-96 using tuberous male parent, non-tuberous female parent, tuberous F₁ hybrid, tuberous backcross and tuberous standard check to know the response of Coleus forskohlii to backcross breeding. The thickness of epidermis in backcross increased from 164μ to 204μ when compared to F. The tuberous parent was rich in proteins in the cortex, vascular bundles and pith tissues. The RNA content of cortical cells was also high. The F₁ with desirable growth properties of the two parents resembled the tuberous parent in the high content of RNA in cortex. The backcross progeny having morphological similarity with the F resembled the F₁ in the distribution of proteins in the epidermis, cortex, vascular, and pith tissues as well as RNA in epidermis and pith. RNA content in cortical and vascular cells of the backcross was similar to tuberous parent. The increase in thickness of epidermis of backcross and observed similarity in histochemistry of the backcross and tuberous parent indicated that incorporation of high biological productivity coupled with high harvest index is possible through backcross breeding.

5 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

009687   Raut V U;Joshi G D;Bharad S G;Nagre P K; Nandre D R (Department of Horticulture, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola-444 104) : Effect of fungicidal treatments on the storage of sapota fruits. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 589-92.

Experiment was undertaken to study the effect of fungicidal treatments on the storage of Sapota fruits at Department of Horticulture Farm, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli during summer season 1997-1998. The results indicated that, the pre-harvest sprayed and fungicidal dip sapota fruits showed higher T.S.S., sugars and lower acidity and ascorbic acids content. The changes in chemical constituents in the treated fruits were slower than untreated one, hence on the basis of shelf life, the treatment Carbendazim 0.05% dip were found to be best. Further, the Carbendazim and Topsin-M sprayed fruits exhibited lower rate of ripening while Topsin-M and Carbendazim dipped fruits were showed maximum shelf life amongst all the treatments. The treated fruits were organoleptically accepted on ripening and also maintained the marketability of the fruits for the longer periods due to reduction in PLW% and minimum spoilage during storage.

2 table, 9 ref

009686   Rathinavel S;Baskaran M;Murugan P;Sellathurai T;Natarajan K K (Plant Tissue Culture Lab, Centre for Research in Botany, Saraswati Narayanan College, Madurai-625 022, Email: rathinavel_sn@hotmail.com) : In vitro plantlets formation through adult nodal explants of Tylophora indica (Burm. F.) Merr.-A valuable medicinal plant. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 487-90.

In vitro regeneration of Tylophora indica from adult nodal explants was studied. Nodal explants placed on MS with BA alone and BA with auxins (IAA and NAA) showed differential morphogenic responses. MS with BA at 1 μM induced multiple shoots (3) along with rooting and callusing. BA at high concentration (10 μM) delayed and diminished the regeneration responses of nodal cultures. MS + BA (1 μM) with auxins found to maximize the percent regeneration of nodal cultures and it was 100% in MS + BA (1 μM) + NAA (2 μM). The responses of nodal explants in MS + BA (1 μM) and MS + BA(1 μM) + NAA(2 μM) implicate the feasibility for regeneration of this species. However, further standardization of hormonal combinations is necessary for large scale propagation and utility in pharmaceutical applications.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

009685   Ranganathan R;Rajalakshmi A K (Department of Botany, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002) : The effect of NaCl and Na₂SO₄ salinity on germination behaviour of Avicennia officinalis L.. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 585-8.

Effect of sodium chloride and sodium sulphate salinity on the seed germination of Avicennia officinalis was studied. Increasing salinities of both salts decreased percentage of germination. Optimum concentration for the maximum percentage of germination and seedlings development was at 200 mM NaCl and 50 mM Na₂SO₄. Non-germinating seeds of higher salinity revived germination and produced seedlings when transferred to distilled water.

1 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

009684   Ram R B;Yadav A K (Department of Applied Plant Science (Horticulture), , Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, (A Central University)) : Introduction and evaluation of some strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.; Rosaceae) cultivars under Lucknow conditions. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 529-31.

Ten cultivars of strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) viz. Florida-90, Selva, Belrubi, Elsanta, Confictura, Brighton, Pajaro, Redcoat and Seascape were studied at Vidya Vatika of the Department of Applied Plant Science (Horticulture), Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow for their growth and yield characteristics. The maximum number of leaves per plant (15.65) were recorded in Redcoat, whereas minimum (8.66) in Elsanta. The maximum plant height (13.97 cm) in Chandler, whereas minimum plant height (7.90cm) in Confictura. The maximum number of runners (5.26) were observed in Brighton, whereas minimum (3.16) in Seascape. The maximum number of flowers (33.11) in Belrubi, while minimum (6.44) in Seascape. The maximum of fruit set per plant (18.0) in Elsanta, whereas minimum (3.56) in Seascape. The maximum fruit set (81.44%) in Elsanta, whereas minimum (26.07%) in Selva. The maximum number of fruits (16.22%) in Elsanta, whereas minimum (3.56) in Florida-90. The minimum days for maturity (140.0) in Elsanta, while maximum day (169.44) in Florida-90. The minimum days for flowering (97.56) in Elsanta, whereas maximum days (142.28) in Florida-90. The maximum flower size (0.90 cm.) in Confictura. The maximum fruit length (2.92cm) in Belrubi, whereas minimum fruit length (1.69 cm) in Elsanta. The maximum fruit diameter (2.83 cm) and fruit weight (4.09g) were obtained from Selva, whereas cv. Elsanta produced the minimum fruit diameter (1.22cm) and fruit weight. (1.11 g), respectively. The cultivar Belrubi gave the highest fruit yield (198.34g/plant) and Florida-90 lowest (19.67g/plant). On the basis of these characteristics, the cultivars Selva, Chandler, Belrubi and Brighton are rated suitable for cultivation under Lucknow conditions.

1 table, 27 ref

009683   Ram R B;Verma S K;Akhilesh Kumar;Ram Kumar (Department of Applied Plant Science (Horticulture), Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University, Vidya Vihar, Rae Bareli Road, Lucknow-226 025) : Studies on flowering behaviour, sex expression and fruit set in Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) cultivars under Lucknow condition. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 673-7.

A significant variation was recorded on various attributes among all the cultivars. The flowering behaviour, sex expression and fruit set viz. flower panicle initiation, days taken from panicle initiation to flower opening, number of male flowers panicles^-1, number of hermaphrodite flowers panicles^-11, number of pseudo-hermaphrodite flower panicles^-1, total number of flowers panicles^-11, days taken from Ist to last flowers opening, percentage of male flowers, percentage of pseudo-hermaphrodite flowers, length of panicles (cm), width of panicles (cm), number of main branches panicles^-1, number of sub-branches panicles^-11 and total fruit set panicle^-11 were marginally to greatly influenced by the cultivars. However, panicles initiation was early (07.02.2004) in variety Pickling followed by Early Large Red (08.02.2004), Large Red Saharanpur and Dehradun (09.02.2004). and late (13.02.2004) in Large Red. The maximum hermaphrodite flower panicle^-1 recorded (225.80), in variety Early Large Red and minimum with variety Piyazi (85.75). Early panicle initiation resulted in relatively higher fruit set, whereas the fruit was poor in panicle which emerged at later stage. Significantly highest fruit set was observed in Pickling (20.75 panicle^-11), however, no fruit set was observed in variety Piyazi.

2 tables, 20 ref

009682   Rajendran K;Basu M J (Department of Botany, Thiagarajar College, Kamarajar Salai, Madurai-625 009, Email: kuppurajendran@rediffmail.com) : Morphological variation, histology, histochemistry and nutrient contents of Frankia root nodules in Casuarina equisetifolia. Indian J expl Biol 2006, 44(11), 924-8.

Root nodules were collected from the existing plantation of Casuarina equisetifolia from three different agroclimatic zones of Tamil Nadu, India. Morphological variation, histology, histochemistry and nutrient contents of the nodules were studied. The nodules were found to be simple, dichotomously branched and coralloid. The stele in simple and branched nodules reached up to the tip of the nodules. Structure of Frankia nodules was described using histochemical methods to elucidate the nature of micro-symbiont within the nodules. The nodule consisted of a distinct periderm enclosing the cortex. The cortex showed patches of infected cells interspersed among the uninfected ones. Inside the cortex was a stele bound by an endodermis, which contained high amount of tannin. The micro-symbiont was observed in the nodule tisues in hyphal form and spore packed sporocorp was also seen in the cortex. The histochemical tests revealed the presence of proteins, insoluble polysaccharides and polyphenols.

1 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

009681   Rajasekaran S;Nagarajan S M;Arumugam K; Saravanamuthu R;Balamurugan S (Department of Botany, A.V.C. College (Autonomous), Mannampandal-609 305) : Effect of dual inoculation (Rhizobium and am fungi) on chlorophyll content of Arachis hypogaea L. cv. tmv-2.. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 671-2.

The effect of Rhizobium and Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inoculation, both individually and in combination was studied on the chlorophyll content of the economically important plant Arachis hypogaea L. Increase in chlorophyll content was observed in dual inoculated (Rhizobium and AM fungi) plants than the individual application.

1 table, 14 ref

009680   Rajalakhsmi A K;Ranganathan R;Tamilmani C (Department of Botany, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar, Tamilnadu-608 002) : Study on the leaf epicuticular waxes of Suaeda maritima Dumort. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 581-3.

Morphological and biochemical aspects of leaf epicuticular waxes of Suaeda maritima, a mangrove plant revealed the followings results. The leaves were fleshy and succulent. The thickness of the cuticle was identical on both upper and lower epidermis. The quantitative estimation of leaf epicuticular waxes showed that the content was 26.45 mg/dm^-2. The qualitative analysis of epicuticular waxes by infrared spectrum analysis showed the presence of following compounds: alcohols, hydroxyl group, alkanes, aliphatic and aromatic isonitrides, carbonyl group, esters, aromatic compounds, sulphones, halogen compounds, aliphatic unsaturated compounds, ethers, benzenes and some unidentified compounds. The scanning electron microscopic study of leaf epicuticular waxes of the leaf of Suaeda maritima revealed the following morphological structures: Adaxial side: wax in the form of plates arranged in one layer or in superimposed layers. Abaxial side: Dense packing of tubes by a continuous film of amorphous wax.

2 illus, 15 ref

009679   Rahman A;Jalil A;Basumatary S K;Ahmed M (Department of Botany, Goalpara College, Goalpara-783 101) : Study of some common medicinal plants used by adivasi (Saontal) people of Dhubri district of Assam. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 603-5.

In North Eastern region of India, there are hundreds of medicinal plants that have a long history of curative properties against various diseases and ailments. The study is concerned with some chemical constituents of leaves, bark, root, rhizome, bulb, fruit, stem, seed etc. of 38 number of plant species, which have been used as medicine for several common diseases like bronchitis, asthma, haemorrhoids, dysentery, diarrhoea, boils, pain, snake bite, leprosy, diabetes, scabies, cardiac disorder, jaundice etc, among the Adivasi (Saontal) people of Dhubri, Assam.

1 table, 13 ref

009678   Praharaj C S (NO, Central Institute for Cotton Research, Regional Station, Lawley Road, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: cspraharaj@yahoo.com) : Impact studies on biofertilization on the growth productivity, economics and N & P uptake by potato in Bihar plains. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 653-8.

Field experiments involving use of biofertilizers viz., Azotobacter sp. Azophos sp and plant growth promoting (PGP) bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus cereus) in conjunction with or without N & P fertilization through soil application and tuber soaking with inorganic chemicals were conducted on potato cv. Kufri Jyoti for continuously for two years during 1999-2000 and 2000-01 to ascertain their impact individually and on integration at Patna under Eastern Indo Gangetic Plain region. The soils was sandy clay loam in texture, low in O. C. & N, and medium in P & K. Results reveal that integrated biofertilization consisting of soaking of tubers in solution containing 1% each of urea and NaHCO₃ followed by its inoculation with both Azotobactor and Azophos resulted in significantly higher tuber yield over those in control (13.1%), soaking alone (4.4%) and Bacillus subtilis (7.6%) Bacillus cereus, a virulent strain of PGP bacteria showed promise (an increase in tuber yield by 10 q/ha) over that in Bacillus subtilis but the response was similar with the IBF in the slightly alkaline soils (pH: 7.9) of Bihar Plains. Per hectare application of 180 kg N & 26.2 kg P (i.e. 100% NP) increased tuber yield significantly over that in 135 kg N and 19.7 kg P (75% NP). Similar impacts were perused following biofertilization and (inorganic) fertilization on other characters viz., biometrics, harvest attributes, economics, soil nutrients uptake. Interaction studies reveal that although the optimum economic combination would be IBF combined with 75% N & P, yet 100% N & P along with IBF may be essential (additional yield of 13.2 q/ha over that in 75% N & P) for maximization of both net profit and yield. A demonstration trial conducted subsequently to see the impact in later years (2001-02) also confirmed the above findings.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

009677   Pandiyan M;Subbalakshmi B;Ganeshram S;Babu C; Marimuthu R (National Pulses Research Centre, , Vamban, Pudukkottai-622 303) : Cytological analysis of Vigna radiata x Vigna vexillata. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 775-6.

Cytological analysis of the sterile hybrid of the cross V. radiata x V. vexillata indicated the genome of the parental species were highly differentiated as the presence of univalent, quadrivalent was frequent, abnormal separation of chromosomes and sporad formation were also noticed.

1 table, 9 ref

009676   Pandiyan M;Ganeshram S;Babu C;Marimuthu R; Bapu K (National Pulses Research Centre, , Vamban, Pudukkottai-622 303) : Genetic parameters studies in greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek]. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 781-4.

Phenotypic coefficient of variation was found higher than genotypic coefficient of variation in all the traits. Highest PCV and GCV were observed for number of primary branches per plant and lowest for protein content. Additive type of genes were found effective for number of leaves per plant at 35 DAS and number of secondary branches per plant while, nonadditive gene effects were found predominant for remaining traits. Broadsense heritability estimates were observed high for all the traits except primary and secondary branches per plant, number of seeds per capsule and total dry matter produced at 65 DAS and at maturity. Significant and negative associations were recorded for number of seeds per pods and protein content with number of leaves at 45 and 65 DAS stages.

2 tables, 26 ref

009675   Pandiyan M;Ganeshram S;Babu C;Marimuthu R (National Pulses Research Centre, , Vamban, Pudukkottai-622 303) : Correlation studies in greengram. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 771-3.

The estimates of correlation coefficient of the traits viz., number of branches per plant, length of branch, number of clusters per branch, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, hundred seed weight and protein content with the seed yield were higher indicating the importance of the traits in the selection for high seed yield.

1 table, 16 ref

009674   Pandey U (NO, , 44, Kaivalyadham Colony, Durgakund, Varanasi-221 005, Email: usha_pandey28@yahoo.co.in) : Heavy metal affects cyanophage multiplication in freshwater Synechococcus. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 607-9.

Cyanophage multiplication under heavy metal stress condition in a freshwater cyanobacterium, Synechococcus was studied. The chosen heavy metals, cadmium and copper reduced the pigments, photosynthetic oxygen evolution and ATP content of host cyanobacterium Synechococcus significantly. Cyanophage yield was greatly reduced at higher concentration of metals. However, addition of CaCO₃ in the medium or the deployrnent of metal resistant host supported the cyanophage multiplication. The study can be used as the experimental model for regulation of cyanophage communities under field and laboratory conditions.

1 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

009673   Pandey N;Budhathoki U (Department of Botany, Patan Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Lalitpur, Nepal) : Profiling of major proteins in wild nepalese mushrooms by SDS PAGE. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 465-9.

Mushrooms are consumed in various parts of the world and rich in proteins and other vital components such as vitamins, minerals, etc. The work was designed to study the protein content in various wild mushroom species from different parts of Nepal. Most of the species were found to contain 16% to 34% on the dry weight basis indicating rich source of proteins and some with poor in protein content. Finally, major proteins of the mushroom samples were studied using sodium dodecylsulphate - polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-Page).

6 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

009672   Padmadevi S N;Kavitha R;Vinodhini S; Srinivasan P (Department of Botany, P.S.G.R. Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore-4, Email: winvino2004@yahoo.co.in) : Composting of coir pith using Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull.: FR) Redh. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 819-20.

The investigation has been formulated to determine the content of cellulose, lignin, nitrogen and carbon in the raw and degraded coir pith using fungal spawn, Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull. : Fr) Redh, a late season cousin to the oyster mushroom. Thus this study points out that coir pith composted by using the mushroom Hypsizygus ulmarius can be a good growing medium for economically important crop plants. The degraded coir pith was used as a potting medium.

2 tables, 6 ref

009671   Nagarajan S M;Rajasekaran S;Kannan T M S; Sundaramoorthy P (Department of Botany, Plant Tissue Culture Unit, A.V.C. College (Autonomous), Mannampandal-609 305) : Direct shoot regeneration from nodal explants of Bougainvillea spectabilis willd. Pl Archs 2006, 6(2), 537-9.

An efficient protocol was developed for high frequency plant regeneration from nodal explants of Bougainvillea spectabilis Willd. on Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with different concentrations of auxins and cytokinins. Frequency of shoot bud regeneration varied with dose of plant growth regulators in the medium. Highest frequency of shoot buds obtained at a concentration of 2.0 mg/l BAP. Individual effect of auxin induce friable callus.

2 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref