004722   Bhat M Y;Fazal M;Hissamuddin (Botany Dep, Kashmir Univ, Srinagar-190 006) : Effect of Meloidogyne incognita race-1 on the functioning of rhizobial nodules on black gram, Vigna mungo. Indian J Nematol 2009, 39(1), 59-64.

The investigation concludes that inclusion of Meloidogyne incognita race -1 cause adverse effects on the growth of black gram, nodule development, nitrogen contents of root and shoot, leg haemoglobin, bacteriods and nitrogenase activity in all the treatments at any population level. In the presence of Bradyrhizobium damage to plant growth was significantly less, except in treatments were bacterial application followed nematode inoculations, compared to those where Bradyrhizobium was not applied. Bacterial application appreciably increased the nitrogen content of root and shoot in all the treatments irrespective of the time of application. Leghaemoglobin, bacteriod and nitrogenase activities in nematode infected plants was higher in prior inclusion of Bradyrhizobium and least in treatments which were applied 10 days after nematode inoculation.

4 tables, 20 ref

004721   Belsare P V;Sriram B;Watve M G (Zoology Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: milind_watve@yahoo.com) : Co-optimization of floral display and nectar reward. J Biosci, Bangalore 2009, 34(6), 963-7.

In most insect-pollinated flowers, pollinators cannot detect the presence of nectar without entering the flower. Therefore, flowers may cheat by not producing nectar and may still get pollinated. Earlier studies supported this 'cheater flower' hypothesis and suggested that the cost saving by cheater flowers could be the most predominant selective force in the evolution of nectarless flowers. Previous models as well as empirical studies have addressed the problem of optimizing the proportion of nectarless and nectarful flowers. However, there has been no attempt to optimize the investment in nectar production along with that in floral display. One of the key questions that arises is whether the floral display will evolve to be an honest indicator of nectar reward. We use a mathematical model to co-optimize the investments in nectar and floral display in order to achieve maximum reproductive success. The model assumes that pollinators rely on a relative rather than an absolute judgement of reward. A conspicuous floral display attracts naive pollinators on the one hand and enhances pollinator learning on the other. We show that under these assumptions, plant-pollinator co-evolution leads to honest signalling, i.e. a positive correlation between display and reward.

5 illus, 20 ref

004720   Azad S A (Botany Dep, Govt. Post-Graduate College, Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir State, Email: shamim.azad03@gmail.com ) : Estimates of genetic parameters for yield and yield components in mungbean variety asha. Indian J scient Res 0000, 1(2), 37-9.

A study was carried out to investigate the yield and yield components of isolated mutants of a mungbean variety Asha in M₃ generation. AH these mutants isolated for higher plant yield have also shown higher values for the number of fertile branches and pods per plant as compared to control. Coefficient of variations (Phenotypic and genotypic), heritability and the genetic advance for the number of fertile branches, number of pods and the total plant yield also revealed a higher value in all the mutants.

004719   Arya R;Saxena S K (Botany Dep, Tika Ram Kanya Mahavidyalaya, Aligarh-202 001) : Efficacy of rhizosphere fungi against root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) and Rhizoctonia solani in tomato crop. Indian J Nematol 2009, 39(1), 113-6.

^ssc2 tables, 8 ref

004718   Ammajamma R;Patil P V (Plant Pathology Dep, Agricultural College, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Role of isozymes in rust (Phakopsora pachyrhizi Syd.) resistance in soybean. Int J Pl Prot 2009, 2(1), 1-3.

In the investigation two known rust resistant (EC241778 and EC241780) and two susceptible (JS335 and DSbl) soybean genotypes have been used in order to know the differences in isozyme pattern. It revealed that at 45 DAS, PO peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase PPO isozymes shown monomorphism in all the genotypes (except in JS335 for peroxidase activity) irrespective of healthy and diseased leaves. At 75 DAS, both PO and PPO isozyme shown polymorphic activities under diseased condition indicating the PO and PPO isozyme synthesis is need based and polymorphic activities appear in response to infection by Phakopsorapachyrhizi. However, in resistant genotypes, bands with higher Rm values were found when compared to susceptible genotypes.

2 tables, 12 ref

004717   Ammajamma R;Hegde Y R (Plant Pathology Dep, Agricultrual Sciences Univ, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Efficacy of fungicides against Rhizoctonia bataticola causing wilt of Coleus forskohlii (Wild) Briq.. Int J Pl Prot 2009, 2(1), 31-2.

Wilt caused by Rhizoctonia bataticola is a serious disease of Coleus forskohlii. Efficacies of systemic and non-systemic fungicides were evaluated against Rhizoctonia bataticola at different concentrations. Among systemic fungicides, Carboxin (0.05 and 0.1) and Hexaconazole, Metalaxyl and Traidemifon at 0.1 per cent completely (100%) inhibited the growth of R. bataticola and among the non-systemic fungicides tested, Thiram at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3 per cent concentrations was found effective against Rhizoctonia bataticola.

2 tables, 3 ref

004716   Akila R;Ebenezar E G (Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: akilpatho@gmail.com) : Ecofriendly approaches for the management of grain discolouration in rice. J biol Control 2009, 23(2), 175-80.

Ecofriendly methods for the management of grain discolouration in rice using plant oils, plant extracts and bacterial antagonist were tested in pot culture and field experiments. The field fungi such as Drechslem oryzae, Curvularia lunata and Fusarium moniliforme were predominantly associated with the grain discolouration in rice. In pot culture experiment, post inoculation spraying of neem oil 80 EC (3%) was highly effective in reducing the grain discolouration which was on par with carbendazim (250 g ha^-1), rhizome extract (10%) of Curcuma longa, leaf extract (10%) of Nerium oleander, Pseudomonas fluorescens (Pfl) (10⁹ cfu ml^-1) and leaf extract (10%) of Vinca rosea. In the field, spraying of neem oil 80EC (3%) at flowering stage and ten days later reduced the grain discolouration from 21.60 to 11.45 per cent which was on par with carbendazim (250 g ha^-1), rhizome extract (10%) of C. longa, leaf extract (10%) of N. oleander and P. fluorescens (Pfl) (10⁹cfu ml^-1). There was also significant increase in the grain yield due to these treatments compared to control.

4 tables, 22 ref

004715   Abirami P;Rajendran A;Sivakumari V (Environmental and Herbal Sciences Dep, Tamil Univ, Thanjavur-613 010) : Influence of vam fungi on medicinal plants of Cymnema sylvestre and Andrographis paniculata. J Ecobiol 2009, 25(3), 245-8.

Two medicinal plants (Gymnema sylvestre R.Br. (Asclepiadaceae) & Andrographis paniculata Nees. (Acanthaceae)) were selected to study the vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizae association and their influence on growth. The physico-chemical characteristics of the rhizosphere soil of these host plants were analysed, as the mycorrhizal association influenced by the soil pH, nitrogen and phosphorus. The mycorrhizal association was ranged from 85 to 90%. Plants inoculated with species of VAM fungi were found to increased in growth when compared with uninoculated ones.

3 tables, 17 ref

023551   Waddar K H;Lakshman H C (Dept of Botany, Karnatak University, Dharwad (Karnataka)) : Effect of indiginous introduced arbuscular myhcorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium on growth of Pongamia pinnata Vent. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 44-8.

Indigenous arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus was isolated from rhizosphere soils ofPongamia pinnata. Young seedlings of P. pinnata inoculated with inhigenous AMF Glomous fasciculatum showed significant growth and the plants introduced with Glomous mosseae did not show significant effect on growth. The dual inoculation with indigenous Glomous fasciculatum and introduced Glmous mosseae depicted growth response was much greater than the single inoculation. The tripartite system of indigenous and introduced VAM with Rhizobium phaseoli improved significatn increase plant height, plant dry matter, nodulation number, N and p content of pongamia pinnata over non-inoculated plants with either AMF or rhizobium alone.

5 tables, 19 ref

023550   thanga Hemavathy A;Balaji K (NO, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Induced viable mutants in Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 15-19.

Mutations were induced in blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) varieties namely ADT3, ADT5 and APK1. Different types of macro mutants and micro mutants were screened in M₂ generation. The frequency and the spectrum of the viable mutants were estimated in M₂ generation both in M₁ plant basis. the highest frequency of viable mutants was recorded in ADT3. Mutation spectrum was much wider at 60kR and it was narrow at 50kR. The variety ADT5 had recorded wider spectrum at 60kR and APK1 showed higher spectrum at 50kR.

6 illus, 2 tables

023549   Tejavathi D H;Raveesha H R;Sowmya R;Maruthi Kumar D R;Gayathramma K;Pushpavathi B;Shyama A;Balasubramanyam (Botany Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: tejavathi@yahoo.com ) : Plantlet regeneration from callus and stem node explants of Mentha citrata. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(1), 32-4.

Effect of growth regulators on morphogenetic potential of nodal explants of Mentha citrata Ehr. was studied. Both indirect regeneration through callus phase and proliferation of the axillary buds at the nodal region was recorded as a function of auxins and cytokinins supplementation in varied combinations. 2-Isopentanyl adenine (4.92 μM - 24.60 μM) either alone or in combination with auxins induced proliferation of axillary buds, whereas benzylaminopurine (4.40 lM - 22.00 μM) and kind in (4.56 μm - 22.80 μm) either alone or in combination with auxins promoted the indirect regeneration through callus formation. Benzylaminopurine (17.60 μM) could induce the development of nearly 200 plantlets from single nodal explant in a single passage and hence proved to be the best hormone for regeneration of this taxon. Histological studies of the regenerating callus indicated the possible origin of the shoots through somatic embryogenesis. The regenerated plantlets were successfully transferred to soil with 95-98 percent rate of survival. Tissue cultured plants flowered after four months of transfer to the field.

5 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

023548   Srivastava D S;Pandey R P;Pandey R;Dwivedi B K;Majee R N;Singh S P (Bioved Research & Communication Centre, , 103/42, M.L.N. Road,Allabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Efficacy of LAC based chemicals as bio-nemaicidal agent. Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 79-82.

Nematicidal activity of two lac based chemicals i.e., 16-OH-(E)-9-hexa decanoate (I) and Methyl undecanoate (II) against the 2^nd stage juvenile of root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne incognita) infesting Brinjal were tested in vitro at 1000ppm, 500ppm, 250ppm, 125ppm, 62.5ppm dose level. After the 24, 48 and 72hr of incubation period, er cent mortality of J₂ stage of M. incognita were recorded. Per cent increase in mortality by chemical (I) AT 62.5 to 1000ppm was 52-91 after 48&72 hr of exposure while the per cent mortality of chemical (II) AT 62.5 to 1000ppm was 43-87 after 72hr of exposure. Both these chemicals (I) & (II) were synthesized from aleuritic acid (9, 10, 16, trihydroxy hexa decanoic acid), the major component acid of lac.

2 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

023547   Singh D K;Yadava L P;Pati R;Gupta V K (Dep of Meteorology, Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of insecticides in management of brinjal shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis Guene). Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 99-101.

Three insecticides i.e. Endosulfan (0.05%), cypermethrin (0.05%) and Malathion (0.05%) were sprayed against the infestation of shoot and fruit borer to evaluate suitable control measure against the pest of get the higher yield. The minimum (21.5%) infestation was observed with Endosulfan followed by cypermethrin (24.13%) and Malathion (25.17%). Total yield of healthy brinjal fruits was higher (350q/h) with Endosulfan treated plants and lowest (112.5q/h) with control. High profit was obtained from Endosulfan (0.07%) applied schedule followed by cypermethrin (0.05%) for each rupee.

2 tables, 7 ref

023546   Shiv OM;Chauhan V B;Sarode S B;Wayazade P M (Dep of Mycology and Plant Pathology, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Screening of pigeonpea genotypes through different screening techniques against sterility mosaic disease. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 5-10.

Experimental material consisted of 82 pigeonpea genotypes of medium to long duration. Out of 82 genotypes, 22 genotypes were screened for sterility mosaic by using Leaf stapling technique and petiole grafting technique in pots. In field, 82 genotypes were screened by using Infector hedge technique as well as leaf stapling technique. All the 22 genotypes except TT 701 and SM 03-17 exhibited symptom of sterility mosaic disease when inoculated adopting both leaf stapling and petiole grafting techniques. Out of 82 genotypes tested against sterility mosaic, sixteen were free from disease and grouped as highly resistant, fourteen genotypes were resistant showing 0.1 to 10 per cent disease incidence, while twenty seven genotypes were moderately resistant showing 10.1 to 25 per cent incidence of disease. Rests of the genotypes were susceptible to highly susceptible showing 25.1 to 100 per cent of disease incidence.

2 tables, 12 ref

023545   Shanmuga Priya M;Kumar S (Dep of Nematology, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003) : Effect of temperature and moisture on the spore viability of Paecilomyces lilacinus. Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 63-5.

In vitro study was conducted to study the spore viability of talc based formulation. The highest spore viability was recorded at 4 per cent moisture stored at 25°C for uptol 15 days and least at 8 per cent moisture content at 30°C on 90th day.

1 table, 9 ref

023544   Seenivasan N;Devrajan K (Dep of plant Prot., Agricultural College and Research Institute, Killikulam-628 252) : Effect of culture media on the growth, sporulation and pathogenicity of native isolate of Paecilomyces lilacinus under the Nilgiris in Tamil Nadu. Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 71-3.

Effect of different culture media on radial growth, biomass, sporulation and pathogenicity of native isolate of Paecilomyces lilacinus collected from potato field in Nilgiris District was studied under room temperature (17±2°C). Four culture media viz. Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA), yeast molasses, Czebdox Dextrose Agar (CDA) and Sabrod Dextrose Agar (SDA) were studied. Among the culture media tested, greater radial growth (4.1 cm), biomass (23.25 mg/100 ml) and sporulation (121 x 10⁴/100 ml) were observed in PDA. Similarly, parasitization of the eggs of potato cyst nematodes (Globodera rostochiensis and G. pallida) by the egg- parasitic fungus, Paecilomyces lilacinus, was higher when the fungus multiplied in the PDA.

1 table, 5 ref

023543   Regini Balasingh G S;Prakash J W;Mary S (Dep of Botany and Research Centre, Scott Christian College, Nagercoil-629 003) : Effect of algal inoculum in the pre-soaking treatment of some vegetables seeds. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 171-4.

In the study Chroococcus minutes, a common blue green algae used for pre soaking treatment on Lycopersicum esculentum, Abelmoscus esculentum seeds under 4, 8 and 12 hours respectively. The result indicated better vegetative growth in the seeds treated under 4 hours and better yield was recorded in the case of 8 hours treated seeds Chroococcus act as a best pollution free biofertilizer to the vegetable crops.

4 tables, 13 ref

023542   Okwu D E;Morah F N I (Chemistry Dep, Calabar Univ, Cross River Statc, Nigeria, Email: Okwudonatus@yahoo.com) : Antimicrobial and phytochemical evaluation of seed of Garcinia kola and Dennettia tripetala fruits. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(1), 20-5.

The antimicrobial activity of the seeds of Garcinia kola Heckel (Guttiferae) and fruits of Dennettiu tripetala G. Bakar (Annonaceae) were investigated. The crude ethanolic extracts of G. kola seeds inhibited Pseudomonas aeuginosa, Staphylococcm aureus, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis and Candida albicans but did not inhibit Esclierichia coli and Aspergillus niger. Whereas the crude ethanolic extract of Dcnnettia tripetala fruits inhibited Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis, Aspergillus niger and Candida albicans but did not inhibit Escherichia coli and staphylococcus aureus. Phytochemical evaluation of D. tripetala fruits and G. kola seeds showed the availability of bioactive compounds comprising alkaloids (0.24 and 0.36 mg/l00g), saponins (1.44 and 11.48 mg/l00g), flavonoids (2.26 and 1.98 mg/100g), tannins (0.06 and 0.26 mg/100g) and phenols (0.03 and 0.11 mg/l00g) respectively. The antimicrobial obervations of above extracts against P. aeruginosa, S. aureus, S. typhi, B. subtilis, C. albicans and A. niger showed that these bioactive substances could be responsible for the activity of these plants and their use in herbal medicine in Nigeria.

5 tables, 33 ref

023541   Mishra S D;Agarwal P;Dwivedi B K (Div of Nematology, I.A.R.I, New Delhi-12) : Plant parasitic nematodes and their management through botanicals. Curr Nematol 2006, 17(1-2), 83-122.

8 illus, 7 tables, 129 ref

023540   Mathew Annie J;Jayachandran K (Botany Dep, St. Thomas College, Kozhencherry, Kerala, Email: jayan_chk@rediffmail.com ) : Rapid propagation of Scoparia dulcis Linn. through leaf culture. Res J Biotechnol 2008, 3(2), 31-35.

An efficient protocol for the plantlet regeneration through leaf callus culture has been established for Scoparia dulcis. The leaf explants proliferated into luxuriant callus mass on Murashige and Skooge medium supplemented with Indole acetic acid and Benzyl adenine at 0.3 mgl^-1. Interaction of hormones at Smgl^-1 induced direct shoot organogenesis and in vitro flowering from the leaf explants. A combination of Naphthyl acetic acid & Benzyladenine at lmgl^-1 and 6 mgl^-1 respectively yielded well developed shoots after subculture. Rhizogenesis was induced from shoots when indole butyric acid was supplemented at 4mgl^-1. Muarashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 2,4 Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid at Img t^-1 and Kmetin at 4 mg I^-1 supported friable callus.

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

023539   Mahesh Prasad;Dwivedi H D (Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, 53 University Road, Lucknow-226 007) : Systematic study of the leaf impressions from the Churia formation of Koilabas area, Nepal and their significane. Palaeobotanist 2007, 56(1-3), 139-54.

Detailed study of the leaf impressions collected from the Churia sediments of Koilabas area, western Nepal reveals the occurrence of eight taxa, viz. Berchemia nepalenisis sp. nov. (Rhamnaceae), Canthium siwalicum sp. nov., Nauclea seriensis sp. nov. and Randia miouncaria sp. nov. (Rubiaceae), Alyxia koilabasensis sp. nov. and Alstonia nepalensis sp. nov. (Apocynaceae), Antidesma miocenica sp. nov. (Euphorbiaceae) and Artocarpus nepalensis Prasad and Awasthi (Moraceae). The habit and habitat of the modern equivalent of leaf impressions indicate existence of evergreen forest thriving under warm humid climate in the Koilabas area during the Middle Miocene as compared to mixed deciduous forests growing at present under reduced precipitation.

3 illus, 42 ref

023538   Laila Banu N R;Prakash J W;Jaquilin Goldi S; Renuka Bai N (Dep of Botany and Research Centre, Scott. Christian College (Autonomous), Nagercoil-629 003) : Effect of phosphorus on rooting in Coleus amboinicus, Lour. syn Coleus aromaticus, Benth. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 35-9.

The effect of phosphorus on rooting in Coleus amboinicus, Lour. was studied. Observations were recorded on the formation of lateral roots and initiation oflateral roots in relation to the number of days. In the study the experimental plants were treated with different concentrations of phosphorus such as 0.01%, 0.1%, 0.2%, 1%, 2%. Among all concentrations of phosphorus, 0.2% showed very positive effect. Almost there was four fold increase in the number of lateral roots than the control. And also the lateral roots showed luxurient growth than the control. Higher concentration of phosphorus such as 1% and 2% showed negative effect. Ultimate effect was that there is no root formation in the plants treated with higher concentration of phosphorus. Thus the effect of phosphorus in lateral root formation is interesting which was analysed in the study.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref

023537   Kazi R P N;Lakshman H C (P.G.Studies in BOtany(Microbiology Lab), Karnatak University, Dharwad (Karnataka)]) : Combined inoculation arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi and azotobacter beneficial to Proralea corylifolia L.. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 11-14.

Effect of Glomus macrocarpum, Glomus fasciculatum and Azotobactor Proralea corylifolia L. was studied in sterilized soil. Compared to un-inoculated plants, chlorophyll content, height, weight, number and area of leaves of plant and weight were maximum in plants inoculated with G. macrocarpum, g. fasciculatum and Azotobactor or with G.macrocarpum and G.fasciculatum or with only G. macrocarpum, or G. fasciculatum. The levels of root colonization was higher in all AM inoculated plants. There was significant increases in (3.96%) and P (0.21%) in the plant treated with a combination of Glomus macrocarpum, Glomus fasciculatum and Azotobactor. The results clearly indicated that compared to individual inoculation, AM fungal species with Azotobactor used in combinations were more beneficial for much improved growth of onion.

3 tables, 17 ref

023536   Jindal R;Verma V;Sharma R K (Dep of Botany, S.S.V.(PG) College, Hapur-245 101) : α - Tocopherol mediated variations in seed germination and seedling growth of Lycopersicon esculentum. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 199-202.

Studies were carried out to observe the effect of a α-Tocopherol (Vitamin E) on seed germination and seedling growth of Lycopersicon esculentum var. Pusa early dwarf. At 200-ppm concentration, α-Tocopherol was found to be promotory for seed germination and seedling growth. It also accelerated the pace of germination and resulted short and sturdy seedlings which were more vigorous. However, at higher concentration, α-Tocopherol showed a gradual decline in seed germination, seedling growth and weight.

5 illus, 2 tables, 4 ref

023535   Jain S K;Bordia P C;Joshi A (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Udaipur-313 001) : Genetic diversity in ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(1), 11-15.

Genetic divergence among 55 Ashwagandha accessions of different geographic origin was assessed using Mahalanobis D1 statistics. Observations revealed significant genotypic differences and accordingly genotypes were classified into ten clusters. Cluster was the largest with fifteen genotypes followed by FI and IIF clusters which have nine genotypes. Cluster IV, V, VI, VII and VIII were also large and consisting more than one genotype whereas cluster FX and X contained only one most divergent genotype. The inter-cluster distance was minimum (33.02) between cluster I and II and maximum (222.00) between cluster II and IX. The genotype of cluster IX was unique as it was tallest with higher dry root yield per plant and root diameter. The genotype of cluster II possessed highest alkaloid content and root length, where as the maximum primary and secondary branches per plant observed in the genotypes of cluster X. Thus, hybridization among these genotypes can generate desirable transgressive segregants.

4 tables, 9 ref

023534   Gupta N;Sabat J (Regional Plant Resource Centre, , Bhubaneswar, Orissa) : Isolation, characterization and evaluation of growth of salt tolerant mangrove microbes grown under NaCl stress. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 84-6.

Attempt was made to evaluate the salt tolerance behaviour of Aspergillus sp. and Bacillus sp. isolated on Brain heart infusion agar from muddy water of Bhitarkanika mangrove ecosystem by growing them under different salt concentration in broth medium. It was observed that fungus could tolerate salt stress upto 16% where as bacteria could be able to grow upto 11%. The Aspergillus sp. showed increase in growth with the increasing concentration of NaCl where as bacteria declined its growth in this condition. It was observed that acidic metabolites was produced by fungus, therefore, its pH was decreased with the increasing level of NaCl. Simultaneously, bacteria did not show any significant changes in pH to filtrate of different saline treated cultures. The protein content in the culture filtrate of fungus increased in higher concentration salt. However, bacteria did not behave in the same manner rather showed negative effect of salinity on growth. The present attempt made to analyze the salt stress in fungus and bacteria was of primary nature that provided us various clues to work further.

6 illsu, 11 ref

023533   Goyal S;Ramawat K G (Laboratory of Biomolecular technology, Botany Dep, M.L. Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur-313 001, Email: kg_ramawat@yahoo.com) : Effect of chemical factors on production of isofalvonoids in Pueraria tuberosa (Roxb.ex. wild) DC suspension culture. Indian J expl Biol 2007, 45(12), 1063-7.

Suspension cultures of Pueraria tuberoxa, a woody legume, have been established and using different concentrations of growth regulators, sucrose, ammonium and nitrate nitrogen, attempts have been made to improve their isoflavonoid content. The cell cultures grew well on all the treatments. Up to -8 folds increased isoflavonoids content was recorded in the cultures grown in MS medium modified with nitrogen and supplemented with 1 mg l^- of kinetin.

1 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

023532   Gowda N K S;Ledoux D R (Mycotoxin Research Laboratory, Animal Science Div, Missouri Univ, Columbia, USA 65211) : Use of antioxidants in amelioration of mycotoxin toxicity. Anim Nutr Feed Technol 2008, 88(1), 1-11.

Mycotoxins are toxic metabolites of different species of fungi naturally occurring in various feed stuff. Two mycotoxins of major significance to livestock production are aflatoxin B₁ (AFB₁) and ochratoxin A (OTA). They cause pathological lesions in liver and kidney through cell damage, release of free radicals, and lipid peroxidation. Several synthetic and natural antioxidants have been used to ameliorate the toxic effects of these mycotoxins. Vitamins (A, E, C) and provitamins (a - carotene, carotenoids), phenolic compounds, curcuminoids, and sulfur containing compounds (glutathione, methionine) are known to exhibit antioxidant action against AFB, and OTA. Some of these compounds are also effective in preventing carcinogenesis during mycotoxicosis. There is a need to evaluate the antioxidant potential of these compounds with emphasis on their stability, effective level of inclusion and effect on other biochemical or tissue functions. Ascertaining and confirming the antioxidant properties of cultivable medicinal/aromatic plants would add value to these products and contribute to their commercial viability.

3 tables

023531   Dudhare M S;Deshmukh A G (ep of Agricultural Botany, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Agricultural University, Akola Maharashtra) : Effect of subculturing on metabolic activities of different strains of Lactococcus lactis. Asian J Bio Sci 2008, 3(1), 224-8.

3 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

023530   Christudhas Williams B (William Research Centre, , 226 - Joshua Street, Nagercoil-629 001, Email: wilrescen@yahoo.com) : Primary organization of shoot tip of Vanda roxburghii, R br. of peninsular India. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 15-20.

The shoot apex of the flowering plant is generally dome shaped and considered as that terminal part of the shoot immediately above the uppermost leaf Primordium. The shoot apexes of Vanda roxburghii have a tunica and corpus organization. The average diameter of the apical meristem at maximal stage of the Plastochron is 525 μm and immediately below this zone the diameter of the stem is 4050 μ.

4 illus, 26 ref

023529   Christudas Williams B (William Research Centre, , 226 - Joshua Street, Nagercoil-629 001, Email: wilrescen@yahoo.com) : Prediction of yellowing leaves by statistical model in orchid (Dendrobium hybrid) farm of peninsular India. J Nat Conserv 2007, 19(1), 41-50.

The population of bacteria and bacterial flora were studied in different orchid farms of peninsular India. The frequent occurrence of yellow leaves (immature leaves) reduce the quality and quantity of flowers which enable to study the degree of relation among the different variables and the the bacterial populations, was evaluated by conducting a multiple regression. The statistical modeling obtained based on the data, suggest that the occurrence of yellowing of leaves could be predicted and appropriate control measure could be forecast.

1 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

023528   Behera M (Post-Graduate Botany Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: hn_thatoi@rediffmail.com) : Effect of growth regulators on biochemical analysis of Bacopa monnieri (Linn) wettst in vitro. Res J Biotechnol 2008, 3(2), 20-25.

In the study in vitro propagation of an important medicinal plant Bacopa monniei (Linn) Wettst was carried out in MS medium supplemented with growth hormones, BAP and Kinetin in combination of different concentrations i.e. 0.5 mg/l, 1 mg/l, 1.5 mg/l and 2 mg/l using shoot explants up to 8 weeks. The two growth hormones BAP and Kinetin showed profuse shooting from the nodal part of the explants with the maximum number of regenerated shoots and roots at 2 mg/l of (BAP + Kn). The biochemical analysis of in vitro plants grown up to 8 weeks exhibits maximum amount of primary and secondary metabolites such as carbohydrate, chlorophyll, DNA and protein contents in the MS medium supplemented with (BAP + Kn) 2 mg/l followed by 1.5 mg/l. The combination of two growth hormones indicates increase in growth and biochemical parameters from 2-weeks to 8-weeks in the medium supplemented with (BAP+Kn) 2mg/l. By using this procedure, the 'Brahmi' or Bacopa the most important medicinal plant largely used by pharmaceutical companies can be conserved, cultured and propagated for expiating the therapeutic value.

1 illus, 7 tables, 20 ref

022612   Vinod Kumar;Misra R L (Floriculture Div and Landscaping Indian Agricultural Research Institut, , New Delhi-110 012) : Influence of <. J Nucl Agric Biol 2007, 36(1-2), 48-54.

Experiment was carried out on effect of gamma irradiation on changes in fresh and dry weights, flower diameter and vase life of 'Golden Gate' cut rose. Three different doses viz. 0.025, 0.05, and 0.10 kGy were employed in combination with pulsing of sucrose (3 per cent) for 24 h and dry cold storage (2°C) for 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 and 12 days. It was recorded that maximum gain in fresh and dry weight after cold storage, and on 3rd day in vase with gamma rays dose 0.025 kGy. Minimum decline in fresh and dry weight on senescence day was also observed with the same dose. Highest flower diameter was recorded at complete flower expansion with irradiation dose of 0.25 kGy in three days storage. Vase life and flower diameter decreased with increase in storage duration. Maximum vase lives of 12.00, 12.00 and 11.66 days were recorded in three days treatments with gamma rays 0.025, 0.05 and 0.10 kGy respectively.

2 tables, 7 ref

022611   Venkateshwarlu M;Digamber Rao B (Botany Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-9) : Pollen allergy of dispersed pollen and allergic diseases. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 185-7.

Allergists and aerobiologists need to know the plants whose pollen becomes airborne allowing a large number of divergent yet relevant informations to percolate. In their quest to understand it better, the allergists need visually oriented reference on pollen grains, the major offenders in inhalent allergy, that adversely affects the lives of millions all over the world. Information on weed plants Hyptis and Eucalyptus species distribution, and flowering time should be recorded carefully. Also included are aerobiological occurrences of pollen and levels of frequencies of alergenicity among the human population. Air mass is also a repository of organic materials like algal filaments, plant and animal parts, in association with Hyptis and Eucalyptus pollen and spores and a medium of life and transport of many organisms, seen or unjeen. Pollen grains from a variety of microorganisms, animal epithelia, fungal spores etc. are the major environmental allergens involved in causing many weed plants and micro organisms' ailments. Allergic diseases, irritation of respiratory mucosa, skin and eyes are caused by fungal growth in building due to water damage. Teh farmers are exposed to air borne fungi. Allergic diseases can be minimized by insulating the repair area or by moving the people away during repairs. The allergies are very common disease in mouldy buildings undergoing demolition and reparis. In the above context, it is necessary to collect data on the frequency, distribution of atmospheric biopollutants, reflected by seasonal and diusnal variations so as to identify the causative.

1 table, 9 ref

022610   Travlos I S;Paspatis E A (Weed Science Dep, Integrated Weed Management and Plant Growth Regulato, Benaki Phytopathological Institute, 8 St. Delta street, GR-145 61 Kifisia, Athens, Greece, Email: htravlos@in.gr) : Allelopathic effect of heliotrope (Heliotropium europaeum L.) on Avena sativa, Phaseolus vulgaris and Spirodela polurhiza. Allelopathy J 2008, 21(2), 397-403.

In Petri plate bioassays, the effects of aqueous extracts of Heliotropium europaeum plant parts (leaf, inflorescence, root) were studied on the early seedlings growth of oat, bean and duckweed. The inflorescence extracts inhibited the seedling growth of all test species more than other parts of heliotrope. The soil assays showed that root exudates released into the soil reduced seedling growth of bean. The allelopathic activity of H. europaeum could be exploited in future studies, to identify and isolate the allelochemicals, as models for future herbicides for integrated weed management.

1 illus, 3 tables, 21 ref

022609   Tomar A (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut-250 001, Email: amittomar1982@yahoo.co.in) : Folk medicinal uses of some indigenous plants of Hastinapur block in Meerut district, (Uttar Pradesh) India. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(4), 186-90.

The work embodies the folk medicinal uses of some indigenous plants by the rural people of Hastinapur block in Meerut District. These 35 medicinal plant species belonging to 34 genera and 23 families were recorded from the area which was used by the village people as folk medicines in their ailments or diseases. The new information were based on the detailed oral interviews held with Vaidhyas, Hakims and elderly village people, who have knowledge of therapeutic uses of indigenous plants and mostly use them in treating their diseases. Following are some important folk medicinal plants, Abrus precatorius, Adenocalymma al/iaceum, Ailanthus excelsa, Amaranthus spinosus, Amaranthus tricolor, Antlrographis paniculata, Aristolochia bracteolata, Azudirachta iiidica, Boerhaavia diffusa, Butea monosperma, Calendula officinalis, Cardiospermum halicacabinn, Carthamus tinctorius, Catharanthus roseus, Centaurea cyanus, Cleoine gynandra, Clitoria ternatea, Citrullus colocynthis, Crinuni defixum, Cucumis sativus, Cymbopogon citratus, Desmodium gangeticum, Phyllanthus emblica, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Grewiu asiafica, Indigof era tinctoria, Madhuca indica, Nelumbo nucifera, Nepeta hindostana, Ocimiim canum, Sacchariun spontaneum, Sisymbriiim irio, Tinospora cordifolia, Tribulus terrestris, Vernonia cinerea.

1 table, 12 ref

022608   Tharmendira K (P.G. and Research Zoology Dep and Wild Life Biology, A.V.C. College, Mannampandal, Mayiladuthurai, Nagai (D.t) Tamil Nadu) : Floral distribution of Pondichery mangroves. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(1), 143-6.

The study was undertaken to record the floral distribution of Pondichery Mangroves. There are 23 mangrove and mangrove associated vegetation are indentified around the study area. Both the true mangrove and mangrove associate vegetation covers nearly 30 ha (5.6%) of the total inundated area. 

2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

022607   Tandon P K;Garg V K;Shukla S;Tahseen Bano; Singh P K;Rastogi A;Bhargava A (National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001) : Relative selection efficiency for fennel grown on sodic soil. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(4), 216-20.

The study was undertaken to test the suitability of direct and indirect selection of yield contributing characters to enhance the stover and seed yield in fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) grown on sodic soil. Maximum direct selection gain was observed for seed yield (86.75%) and stover yield (67.11%). However, all the characters under study showed high heritability that was maximum for umbels/plant (0.980). The correlated response CRy for stover yield was maximum on selection of seed yield (1.578%), plant height (1.087%) and umbels/plant (0.472%). Seed yield/plot showed highest CRy for stover yield (383.501%), followed by plant height (233.59%) and umbels/plant (103.87%). The study concluded that seed yield and stover yield were strongly associated to each other and increase in one is directly associated with increase in the other. A multiple selection index to enhance stover and seed yield in fennel on sodic soils is discussed.

3 tables, 9 ref

022606   Sinha R K;Sinha S (Cytogenetics and Plant Tissue Culture Lab., Botany Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130, Email: khsinhark@yahoo.co.in) : Ethnobotanical studies on wild and semi-wild plants of western Tripura. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 359-62.

Tripura is a hilly state and is inhibited by tribal and other economically backward classes of people. Several wild and semi-wild angiospermic species have been recorded during field trips of ethnobotanical importance. The enumerated plants are known to be employed by tribals and other age old rural communities as food, vegetables, medicines and other miscellaneous purposes. The different taxa, as documented in the present study, are described categorically from nomenclatural, plant parts used and purpose of uses point of view. Emphasis has also been made on indigenous species of local interest and discussed accordingly.

3 tables, 6 ref

022605   Singh J;Tripathi A;Gandha R;Singh S C;Jain S P;Sharma A;Khanuja S P S (Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Lucknow, 226 015) : Traditional uses of Andrographis paniculata (Kalmegh). J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(4), 228-33.

1 illus, 1 table, 42 ref

022604   Singh A;Masih H;Sundara Singh B (Botany Dep, St. John's College, Agra-282 002) : Survey of medicinal plants of Agra District used in skin diseases. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 347-9.

Traditional and folklore medicine bequeathed from generation to generation is rich in domestic recipes and communal practice. Medicinal plants, since times immemorial, have been used in virtually all cultures as a source of medicine. So in the current century, the exploration of ethno-phytotherapy is attracting global attention. The survey and study of ethno-phytotherapy is an important clue for the search of new herbal formulations. This paper deals with the survey of some important plants used against skin diseases by the people of rural areas in Agra District. During the survey, 32 plant species of angiosperms were enumerated, their botanical names, local names, Ayurvedic names, families, plant parts used are being presented.

1 table, 15 ref

022603   Sharma V;Mudgal P;Sharma B L (Botany Dep, N.R.E.C. College, Khurja) : Ethnomedicinal uses of herbal plant resources in Mandakini valley (Garhwal Himalaya). Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 337-40.

Deals with 21 important medicinal plants of Mandakini Valley (Garhwal Himalaya) having ethnomedicinal uses. Extensive survey have done during the year of 2004 to 2006. Specimens were collected and studied. Information were gathered from local enthnic groups having traditional knowledge. Information were cross checked for authenticity of investigated results.

1 table, 8 ref

022602   Sharma V;Dhancholia S (Plant Pathology Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062) : Increasing hosts of Botrytis elliptica (Berk.) Cooke causing lily disease of Lilium sp.. Ann agric biol Res 2008, 13(1), 49-51.

Positive sensitivity of Botrytis elliptica was observed on pea, tulip, lilium and Gladious.

1 table, 4 ref

022601   Saxena P;Anil Kumar;Shrivastava J N (Botany Dep, Dayalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005) : Sensitivity among geophilic keratinophilic fungi and dermatophytes. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 47-50.

Sensitivity among geophilic keratinophilic fungi, Chrysosporium anamorph of Rollandina vriesii and Geomyces pannorum were tested against pathogenic dermatophytes Microsporum fulvum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. PIRG values of both pathogenic dermatophytes were higher in dual cultures with C. anamorph of Rollandina vriesii compared to G. pannorum. Similarly in Biomass production, possible interactions were observed while comparing the biomass in dual combinations with the additional biomass of both the fungi grown individually. Biomass inhibition also demonstrated that C. anamorph of Rollandina vriesii showed greater inhibition in its combinations with dermatophytes compared to G. pannorum.

2 tables, 22 ref

022600   Sampath Kumar G;Rajendran A (Botany Dep, Dr. Ambadkar Government Arts College, Vyasarpadi, Chennai) : Occurrence and distribution of VA-Mycorrhizal fungi in paddy field (Oryza sativa L.) of Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 43-5.

The rhizosphere soils and root samples were collected from paddy fields at twelve sites of Thanjavur district. They were analyzed for spore number, level of vesicular arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) colonization and VAM species. The number of VAM spores detected in the field soils ranged from 18.5 to 720 per 100 g soil. Eighiecn VAM species were isolated, belonging to five genera viz., Acaulospora, Entrophospora, Gigaspora, Glomus and Sclerocystis. The species composition of the VAM community varied at different fields and study sites.

28 ref

022599   Raja Mohan H;Sasikumar S (Divisional Forest Officer, Social Forestry Div, , Mathura, Uttar Pradesh) : Occurrence of albino seedlings in karanj (Pongmia pinnata L.). Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 367.

2 illus, 4 ref

022598   Pugalenthi M;Vadivel V (Botany Dep, Government Arts College, Coimbatore-18, Tamil Nadu, Email: pugalmuthiah@rediffmail.com) : Production, purification and characterization of extracellular phytase from Aspergillus species. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2008, 10(1), 105-10.

Phytase enzyme producing potential of five different Aspergillus species was analyzed. The extracted phytase enzyme was purified by DEAE cellulose column chromatography and the enzyme activity was measured by using the synthetic substrate p- nitro phenyl phosphate (PNPP). The partially purified enzyme exhibits maximum activity at the optimum pH (5- 6), temperature (50- 90°C) and substrate concentration (1.0- 2.5 mg/ml) under standard assay conditions. Among the five different Aspergillus species examined, A. niger registers the highest production of phytase enzyme with maximum enzyme activity. The characteristics of the partially purified enzyme such as optimum pH and temperature are also favourable for the industrial applications. Supplementation of such microbial enzymes in the diets of monogastrics will enhance the bioavailability of phosphorous to the growing animals.

4 tables, 26 ref

022597   Politycka B;Gmerek J (Plant Physiology Dep, The August Cieszkowski Agricultural Univ, Wolynska; 60-637 Poznan, Poland, Email: barpolit@yahoo.pl) : Effect of ferulic and P-coumaric acids on the activity of hydrolytic enzymes and the growth of radicles in germinating seeds of cucumber and pea. Allelopathy J 2008, 21(2), 227-37.

Cucumber and pea seeds were treated with solutions of ferulic and p-coumaric acids. In cotyledons isolated from the seeds, activity of selected hydrolytic enzymes (α-amylase, aminopeptidase, lipase and β-glucosidase) were determined. Besides, the length and fresh matter of germinating seed radicles were also determined. The phenolic acids changed the activity of hydrolytic enzymes and impeded the seeds germination. Their effects depended on the plant species, enzyme type, concentration of applied phenolic acid and stage of germination.

8 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

022596   Paliwal R;Singh B G (Botany Dep, St.John's College, Agra-282 002) : Evaluating antifungal nature of some selected medicinal plants. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 351-2.

Antifungal nature of some selected medicinal plants has been evaluated by testing them against few species of human pathogenic fungi. Among the selected medicinal plants Cinnamomum tamala showed 100% inhibition in the mycelial growth of all the test organisms while Peristrophe bicalyeulata showed poor inhibitory activity which was below 0.50% inhibition against all the test orgamisms.

1 table, 11 ref

022595   Paliwal A K (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Bageshwar-263 642) : Poaceae (Grass family) of Bageshwar District of Uttaranchal. Adv Pl Sci 2008, 21(1), 181-4.

Describes an account of the survey of grasses found in Bageshwar district of Kumaun region of Uttaranchal and is a supplement to the lists of plants reported by Rao (1960) and Strachey (1906). It includes 68 species belonging to 50 genera.

23 ref