021531   Pradip Kumar;Prajapati C R;Singh D V (Plant Pathology Dep, C.S. Azad Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Kanpur-208 002) : Efficacy of some fungitoxicants against Alternaria brassicae causing alternaria blight of radish. Indian J Pl Path 2006, 24(1-2), 29-31.

Seventeen fungitoxicants of various group were tested in vitro against Alternaria brassicae, incitant of Alternaria blight of radish. Out of which Iprodione, Mancozeb, Achook, Ridomil-MZ, Ziram and Captan proved to be most effective as they inhibited growth of fungus completely. Among the partially effective, Blitox-50 gave the highest inhibition (95.27%) of fungal growth and was superior to remaining ones. Fungitoxicants found effective and partially effective in bioassay test were further tested as a seed dresser under pot condition to see their effect on seed germination and seedling emergence. A significant increase in germination was observed in seeds treated with Mancozeb followed by Thiram, Bavistin and Iprodione. Ridomil-MZ and Ziram were found ineffective as they failed to control seedling infection.

2 tables, 11 ref

021530   Parihar P;Parihar L;Bohra A (Tanveer, Malawat College of Biosciences, Sadulganj, Bikaner-334 003, Email: pradeepparihar2002@yahoo.com) : Antibacterial effect of plant part extracts of Marsilea minuta L. against some human and plant pathogenic bacteria. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 132-6.

In the investigation, aqueous and alcoholic plant part extracts of Marsilea minuta L. were tested against five human as well as plant pathogenic bacteria, like Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Escherichia coli, Salmonella arizonae, Salmonella typhi and Staphylococcus aureus for their antimicrobial activity. Various plant part extracts were found antibiotically effective against all the five selected bacteria.

1 table, 14 ref

021529   Parihar P;Parihar L;Bohra A (Microbiology Laboratory. Botany Dep, J.N. Vyas Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: pradeepparihar2002@yahoo.com) : Antibacterial potentials of Cheilanthes albomarginata Clarke. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 91-5.

Various aqueous and alcoholic extracts of plant parts of Cheilanlhes albomarginala were tested against the growth of some human and plant pathogenic bacteria like, Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Escherichia coli. Salmonella arizonae. Salmonella lyphi and Staphylococcus atireus. In this investigation nearly all the extracts were found effective against the bacteria. The positive results so obtained were compared with that of the reference standard antibiotic (Tetracycline) and it was found that many extracts when mixed in equal proportion with the antibiotic and tested against the bacteria and the mixture of extract + antibiotic were more effective than the antibiotic alone.

1 table, 12 ref

021528   Nagarajan V;Ebbs S D (Plant Biol Dep, 420 Life Sci II, 1125 Licoln Drive, Southern Illinois Univ Carbondale, Carbondale, IL, 62901-6509, USA) : Transport of arsenite by the arsenic hyperaccumulating brake fern Pteris vittata is inhibited by monovalent silver. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 312-16.

Capacity of silver (Ag⁺) to inhibit the transport of arsenite by the arsenic (As) hyperaccumulating fern Pteris vittata was investigated. The hydroponic growth medium was supplemented with 200 μM arsenite and 1, 10, or 100 μM Ag⁺, with roots and pinnae harvested intermittently following treatment. Treatment with Ag⁺ significantly reduced transpiration and prevented the hyperaccumulation of As. A study of competitive uptake between arsenite and its analog antimonite showed that arsenite significantly reduced the concentration of antimonite in P. vittata, but antimonite had no effect on as accumulation. The results collectively suggest that uptake of arsenite by Pteris vittata is mediated by membrane transporters sensitive to Ag⁺ inhibition that may also mediate antimonite transport, such as members of the major intrinsic protein family.

2 illus, 13 ref

021527   Mohanraj J (Advanced Zoology & Biotechnology Dep, Kamaraj College, Tuticorin-628 003, Email: jmohanraj@snacharnet.in) : Length-weight relationship of Upeneus sundaicus and Upeneus tragula from Gulf of Mannar. Indian J Sci Technol 2008, 4(1), (NULL).

Length weight relationship of Upeneus sundaicus and Upeneus tragula were assessed. The statistical relationships of body weight with total length were highly significant for male and female population of U. sundaicus and U. tragula. The correlation coefficient r value between sexes of U. sundaicus, reveals the highest 'r' value for its female population (r = 0.92). In the case of U. tragula, there is no much difference among sexes (r = 0.95). The absolute condition factor (Kn) value for U. sundaicus and U. tragula ranged between 0.8 and 1.68 respectively. The highest Kn value obtained from the length group was 105-109cm.

8 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

021526   Mishra D R;Mishra P C (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : New report of Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R.Br. from Kathmandu, Nepal. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 151-5.

The occurrence of Lygodium microphyllum (Cav.) R.Br. belonging to the family Lygodiaceae is reported for the first time from Phulchauki near Kathmandu. It is a terrestrial creeping fern and characterized by simple pinnate leaves with angular pinnules showing open type of dichotomous venation with fertile pinnules having sporangia and elongated annulus cells. The pinnules also show the presence of trichomes on upper side only. The leaves are hypostomatic and epidermal cells are sinuous walled.

2 illus, 5 ref

021525   Meenakshi Singh;Rawat A K S;Khare P B (Pharmacognosy & Ethnopharmacology Div, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001) : Antimicrobial activity of two Microsorum species. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 167-71.

The antimicrobial activity of Microsorum punctatum and M. scolopendria was tested against 11 bacterial and 8 fungal strains using disc diffusion assay. Acetone, ethanol and water extracts exhibited both bacterial as well as antifungal activity. Ethanolic and aqueous extracts of both plants showed comparable antimicrobial activity as indicated by inhibition zone, but acetone extracts showed comparatively lesser activity. M. scolopendria extract exhibited more activity than Microsorum punctatum extracts against used microorganisms. This study is the first report of comparative antimicrobial properties of Microsorum species. The findings also support (the use of Microsorum punclaliim and M. scolopendria leaves in traditional medicine for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infections.

3 tables, 7 ref

021524   Martin Rathi J;Absara S;Priyadharshini K; Jegathambika V (Chem Dep, St. Mary's Coll, Thoothukudi-628 001) : Qualitative phytochemical screening of some locally available insecticidal plants. J Biopestic 2008, 1(1), 52-4.

Qualitative phytochemical screening often locally available insecticidal plants such as Adathoda vasica (Ness) (Acanthaceae), Cynodon dactylon (Linn.) Pers. (Poaceae), Eclipta alba (Linn.) (Asteraceae), Morinda pubescens J.E.Smith (Rubiaceae), Ocimum tenuiflorum (Linn.) (Labiatae), Phyllanthus amarus (Linn.) (Euphobiaceae), Sesbania grandifolora (Linn.) (Fabaceae), Solanum surattense (Linn.) (Solanaceae), Solanum trilobatum (Linn.) (Solanaceae), and Vinca rosea (Linn.) (Apocynaceae) were investigated. Petroleum ether (40 - 60° C), hexane, chloroform, ethanol and water were used as solvents. Secondary metabolities steroids, alkaloids, phenolic compounds, flavonoids, saponnins, tannins, aromatic acids, and xanthoproteins were analysed using standard procedures. Tannins was found from water and hexane extracts of S. grandifolora and E. alba respectively. Except the chloroform extract of A. vasica, petroleum ether, ethanol extracts of O. tenuiflorum and petroleum ether and hexane extracts of V rosea had alkaloids.

3 tables, 9 ref

021523   Mao A A;Wetten A;Fay M F;Caligari P D S (Botanical Survey of India, , Eastern Circle, Laitumkhrah, Shillong-793 003, Email: aamao2001@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of nitrogen source on growth and morphogenesis in three micropropagated Nepenthes spp. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 317-21.

Effect of the two main nitrogen sources, i.e. NH₄(NO₃) and Ca(NO₃)₂ in Woody Plant Medium (WPM) on three micropropagated Nepenthes spp. showed differences among three species in percentage nitrogen content in dried leaf, shoot production, shoot length and fresh plant weight. Higher number of shoots and longer shoot length were observed on treatment with a single nitrogen source rather than a combination of the two sources. The three species showed higher uptake of nitrogen from nutrient with single source Ca(NO₃)₂ but in general produced lower fresh weights on treatment with higher Ca(NO₃)₂. Abnormality in leaf morphology was observed in N. khasiana and N. pervillei on the treatments with a single nitrogen source. The study concludes that a combination of two nitrogen sources are required rather than a single source for normal growth of the Nepenthes species.

4 tables, 18 ref

021522   Maner M I;Deshmukh M B;Patil A S (Deptt.of Agrochemicals & Pest Management Shivaji Univ, , Kolhapur-416 004, Email: mumtajmaner@rediffmail.com) : Some biochemical changes in the leaves of Saccharum officinaruml L. Due to growth of capnodwm spp.. Ann Pl Physiol 2007, 21(1), 134-5.

1 table, 9 ref

021521   Mahmood I;Tiyagi S A;Farooq Azam M (Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002) : Possible utilization weeds for the management of soil pathogenic fungi infesting some vegetable crops. Indian J Pl Path 2006, 24(1-2), 15-18.

Leaf extract of noxious weeds such as Solarium xanthorarputn and Argemone maxicana were used as bare-root dip treatment for the management of two important soil pathogenic fungi, Rhizoctonia solani and Macrophomina phaseolina infesting tomato (Lycapersicon esculantum) and chilli (Capsicum annuum) plants. Significan reduction was observed in the root-rot development caused by R. Solani and M. Phaseolina on both the test plants. Larval penetration of second state juveniles of M. incognita was also inhibited at various concentrations of leaf extracts and dip durations. Leaf extract of S. xanthocarpum caused relatively more inhibition in root-rot development than that of A. maxicana. As a consequence of nematodes control, seems to be due to dip treatment, plant growth improved. The efficacy of root-dip treatment with respect to improvement in plant weight and reduction in root-rot developments increased with increasing the concentration of leaf extracts and dip durations.

2 tables, 18 ref

021520   Mahamuni R;Hebale P;Dongare M (Botany Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Anogramma leptophylla (L.) link. : a critically endangered fern from Panahala hill station, Maharashtra. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 161-3.

During our studies on Anogramma leptophylla (L.) Link, it has been found critically endangered in the pteridophytic flora of Panhala Hill Station, Maharashtra. In silto conservation of the tiny fern is essential.

1 illus, 11 ref

021519   Kumar V;Gupta R C;Singh P C;Singh R P;Singh J (Botany Dep, Udai Pratap Autonomous College, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh) : Screening of tomato genotypes against early blight in natural epiphytotic condition. Indian J Pl Path 2006, 24(1-2), 58-61.

Early blight of tomato caused by Alternaria solani is a serious disease through out the country as well as in tropical and subtropical countries of the world. The maximum disease severity occurs during February to March at the time of peak crop growth. To find out the resistant source sixty seven tomato genotypes were screened during the cropping season viz. 2003-2004 and 2004-2005 in the month of February- March under natural epiphytotic condition. EC-508765, & EC-538394 and few cultivars i.e. RCMT-1, KS-118, H-88-78-sps-3, EC-538393 were found moderately resistant. Few other lines like DT-1, SKUT-2, ZTH-1037, Bio-wonder and VLT-87 were also found moderately resistant but became susceptible at late stage of disease progress in both the year. Disease intensity was recorded up to 100% in many varieties.

1 table, 9 ref

021518   Kholia B S;Punetha N (Botanic Garden of Indian Republic, Botanical Survey of India, Noida) : On the taxonomic validity of Osmunda japonica Thunb. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 85-90.

Observations were made on the live populations of Osmunda regalis L. at four places in Central Himalaya. At all the four places most of the plants produced fertile fronds during spring but fronds formed during summer remain vegetative, however in one plant at Didihat and eight plants at Champawat, some fronds formed during late summer bear fertile pinnae towards the distal part. These plants, thus exhibit the characters of both the taxa. It is concluded that O. japonica Thumb. should be reduced as synonym of O. regalis L.

3 illus, 1 table, 19 ref

021517   Khan M R;Pundhir V S;Azizur Rahman S M;Singh V P (Centre of Advanced Studies, Plant Pathol Dep, G.B. Pant Univ of Agric and Technol, Pantnagar-263 145) : Screening of antibacterial activity of some botanicals against Ralstonia solanacearum. Prog Res 2007, 2(1-2), 85-8.

Ralstonia solanacearum, the wilt causing bacterial pathogen is a serious threat for several solanaceous crops in India. In certain pockets it has become a limiting factor in successful cultivation of potato crop. Many evident of bacterial wilt of potato remains a problem in Kumaon and Garhwal hills of Uttararnchal. Toxic chemicals (pesticides) are not recommended as they may led to the problems like pest resistance, pest resurgence and environmental pollution. Host resistance alone may not be durable proposition. Alternative as well as additional methods are to be deviced for proper management of disease, plant extract have shown antibacterial activities. Promising botanicals were collected from Uttaranchal and their extracts were evaluated for antibacterial activity against R. solanacearum. Inhibition zone technique was used for in vitro evaluation of methanol extracts of botanicals. Seven botanical extracts were found to reduce the growth of test pathogen. Harar and Euphorbia were most effective to inhibit the growth of pathogen at tested concentrations significantly, with maximum inhibition zone (23.83 mm and 16.17 mm, respectively) at 1.0 mg concentration. The extracts of bottle brush, Arjun and asparagus were also found to inhibit the growth of R. solancearum.

4 tables, 12 ref

021516   Kavitha C;Vadivel E;Thangamani C;Rajamani K (Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003) : Variability studies for morphological traits in Coleus forskohlii. J med aromatic Pl Sci 2007, 29(2), 60-2.

An experiment was conducted to study the variability in morphological traits with thirty seven Coleus forskohlii genotypes collected from different places of Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Eleven morphological traits of C. forskohlii were evaluated to estimate the mean, range, genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance. The results of the present study have clearly brought out that high heritability and high genetic advance was observed for the characters viz., plant height, number of leaves, number of roots / tubers, root / tuber length, root / tuber girth and foliage weight. High heritability linked with high genetic advance of these traits indicates that improvement could be made possible through selection based on these characters.

2 tables, 7 ref

021515   Kale M V;Dongare M (Botany Dep, Jaysingpur College, Jaysingpur-416 101) : Comparative analysis of nitrogen metabolism in the dimorphic ferns of western ghats. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 82-4.

Deals with the nitrogen metabolism in the dimorphic ferns collected from Western Ghats. The parameters include total nitrogen, crude proteins and enzymes like nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase. For this investigation Bolbilis appendiculata (Willd.) K. Iwats, Bolbitis virens Hook & Grev, Osmunda regalis (L.) (terrestrial), Ceratopteris thalictroides (L.) Brongn (aquatic) and Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J. Sm. (epiphytic) have been studied.

1 table, 10 ref

021514   Kale M V (Botany Dep, Jaysingpur College, Jaysingpur-416 101) : Phytochemical analysis of Bolbitis appendiculata (Willd.) Iwats : rare and endangered species from castlerock and anmode, Maharashtra, south India. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 148-50.

Pteridophyte flora in a region is considered the basic requirement for the advancement of knowledge in the field of pteridology, Castlerock is famous for the richness of this flora. Bolbitis appendiculata is a terrestrial, tree shaded dimorphic species found in Anmode Ghat area. B. virens and B. presliana are reported from Casllerock. Both the species are terrestrial included under the family Lomariopsidaceae. B. appendiculata is now becoming a rare and endangered species. Also deals with the phylochemical studies viz ; chlorophyll α & β carotenoids, carbohydrates, proline, polyphenols, nitrogen, protein and enzymes like nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase during vegetative and reproductive stage.

1 table, 9 ref

021513   Jain R K;Kumar V (Biotechnol Dep, ITS Paramedical Coll, Muradnagar, Ghaziahad) : Nodulation efficiency in directly correlated with leghemoglobin content of nodules. Prog Res 2007, 2(1-2), 135-7.

In the present investigation it is tried to establish a relationship between the Lb content of the nodules and the nodulation efficiency of selected isolates of Rhizobium ciceri. During this investigation 30 isolates of R. ciceri were selected. Nodulation capacity in terms of nodule numbers, nodule fresh weight and nodule dry weight of these isolates were observed separately and correlated with the Lb content of these, nodules. Finally it is observed that Lb content increases with the increase in nodule numbers, nodule fresh weight, and dry weight. All these nodulation parameters exhibit a positive correlation with Lb content with a correlation coefficient of +0.8076.

1 table, 8 ref

021512   Huda N K (Botany Dep, Chittagong Univ, Chittagong-4331, Bangladesh) : Updated enumeration of the familiy Orchidaceae from Bangladesh. J Orchid Soc India 2007, 21(1-2), 35-49.

The-present enumeration includes a total of 117 species and a variety under 70 genera to the family orchidaceae from Bangladesh. Out of 178 taxa listed, 116 are epiphytic a d 60 are terrestrial; Vanilla parishii Rchb. f. is a hemi-epiphyte whereas Luisia viridiflora (Bl.) Lindl. shows both terrestrial and epiphytic habits. One species, Micropera pallida (Roxb.) Lindl., is reduced under synonymy of Micropera rostrata (Roxb.) Balakr. and three varieties, Aerides multiflora var. daclyloides Mokter et a/., Dendrobium fimbriatum var. oculawm Hook, f., and Spathoglottis pubescens var. parviflora Lindl. are also reduced to synonymy under their respective species. Current nomenclature, commonly used synonyms, phenology, geographical distribution, and first record of each taxon have been provided.

48 ref

021511   Gupta S;Varshney N;Bateshwar Kumar (NO, Inst of Appl Medicines and Res, Ghaziabad) : Micropropagation of Rauvolfia serpintina by invitro culture. Prog Res 2007, 2(1-2), 171-2.

^ssc3 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

021510   Gupta A K;Ray B (Botany Dep, S.B., P.G. College, Baragaon, Varanasi-221 204) : Impact of physico-chemical characteristics of water on algal diversity in case of river Varuna at Varanasi. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2007, 19(2), 267-72.

The physico-chemical characteristics with special reference to phytoplanktons in Varuna river, passing through Varanasi (U.P., India) were investigated for a period of one year i.e. from April 2006 to March 2007. Algal and water samples were collected at monthly intervals from five study sites of the river. The study was performed to document relationships among nutrient concentrations with phytoplankton distribution and composition. From the results, it is evident that the Varuna river resulted in eutrophication with high values of BOD, COD, chloride, phosphate, nitrate, sulphate and free CO2. It has been observed that, members of chlorophyceae dominated the river and besides this, members of Cyanophyceae, Bacillariophyceae and Euglenophyceae were also found. Over all 39 Algal species have been reported. The river is badly polluted by untreated domestic sewage, pesticides, run-off water and small scale industrial wastes discharged into the river.

2 tables, 20 ref

021509   Espinosa-Garcia F J;Martinez-Hernandez E; Quiroz-Flores A (Instituto de Ecologia, Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico, Circuito exterior S/N, Ciudad Universitaria, 04510, Mexico, D.F., Email: espinosa@oikos.unam.mx) : Allelopathic potential of Eucalyptus spp plantations on germination and early growth of annual crops. Allelopathy J 2008, 21(1), 25-38.

Investigated the allelopathic potential of soil from Eucalyptus species (E. grandis, E. urophylla and E. randis x urophylla) plantations on the germination and early growth of 4 crops [maize (Zea mays), bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), watermelon (Cucurbita pepo) and squash (Citrullus vulgaris)]. Soil samples were collected from different soil horizons (A0, A1 and B) and at varying distances from eucalyptus trees and used for growth studies. These soils had variable effects (inhibitory to slightly stimulatory) on test crops. Inhibitory effect was minimum on maize and maximum on black bean. Among the three Eucalyptus species, E. grandis x urophylla was most inhibitory against maize, bean and watermelon growth, whereas, E. grandis adversely affected the squash. The soils from Eucalyptus species contained water soluble phenolics and their amount varied with soil horizons. The soil from A0 horizon was most inhibitory, suggesting the accumulation of bioactive allelochemicals in this horizon. The study concluded that soil from eucalyptus spp contains inhibitory principles that affected the germination and early growth of crop plants.

1 illus, 7 tables, 43 ref

021508   Dubey P C;Khanna K K;Sikarwar R L S;Saxena R N;Tiwari A P (Research and Extension Circle, , Rewa, Madhya Pradesh) : Biodiversity and its threat assessment in vindhyan region. Indian J Trop Biodiversity 2007, 15(1), 1-52.

Deals with the plant diversity, its extent of loss, causes and conservation measures which is based on people's view, field observations and experts opinion. Total of 923 species are assessed and out of which 259 plant species are threatened.

2 illus, 12 tables, 29 ref

021507   Dhiman A;Pathak P;Vij S P (Orchid Laboratory, Botany Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014) : Regeneration from foliar explants in Bletilla striata Reichb. F.: a study in vitro. J Orchid Soc India 2007, 21(1-2), 75-80.

Leaf segments of Bletilla striata, successfully regenerated in vitro through callus mediated and/or direct shoot bud formation. While modified Ichihashi (I) medium supplemented with 1 mgl^-1 each of BAP and NAA favoured callus mediated organogenesis and was most beneficial, Murashige and Skoog (MS), and Mitra et al. (M) medium suplemented with NAA, initiated callus formation. Direct shoot bud formation was invoked by an individual action of cytokinins in MS medium, and a combined effect of auxin (NAA) and cytokinins (BAP/KN) in M medium.

021506   Dhawan S;Brar R S (Bot Dep, S.G.N. Khalsa Coll, Sri Ganganagar-335 001, Email: sachin.dhawan1@gmail.com) : Effect of sulphurdioxide on vigour of gram varieties stored in different containers under various conditions of humidity. Seed Res 2007, 35(2), 259-64.

^ssc4 tables, 16 ref

021505   Deb C R;Temjensangba (Botany Dep, Nagaland Univ, Headquarters: Lumami, Mokokchung-798 601) : Direct regeneration of shoot-buds in Arachnis labrosa foliar explants. J Orchid Soc India 2007, 21(1-2), 7-9.

An efficient procedure is described for mass multiplication of Arachnis labrosa using in vitro sourced foliar explants. Shoot buds were directly induced within 8 wks. An individual treatment with either of BAP and KN was promotory, and with NAA inhibitory, to regeneration. NAA (10 μM) and BAP (8 μM ), when used together, had a synergistic effect; nearly 85% explants responded, each regenerating up to 21 shoot buds or protocorm like bodies. The neo-formations differentiated into rooted plantlets within 20 wks. The plantlets were hardened in vitro for 3-4 wks prior to tranfer in green house.

s, 10 ref

021504   Das S (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Howrah) : Taxonomic revision of Indian species of Pteris L. with simple-pinnate fronds. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 60-70.

Pteris L is one of the most distinct ami large genus amongst Indian ferns, and is represented by about 64 species. The genus comprises of members with simple to compound fronds . Within compound fronds there are bipinnate and tripinnate types of fronds. Study of herbarium materials and field explorations, out of 64 species only 18 taxa possess simple pinnate type of fronds. These are illustrated supported by brief taxonomic notes disturbation plata and ecological growth characteristics. Elaborate key to the species is provided for then easy segregration.

3 illus, 24 ref

021503   Dadwal V S;Singh N;Mir I A;Jamaluddin (Forest Path Div, Tropical Forest Res Inst, Jabalpur-482 021) : Mycoflora of tree-borne oil seeds and its effect on oil contents. Indian J Trop Biodiversity 2007, 15(1), 87-9.

Seed mycoflora of `Sal' (Shorea robusta Gaerln.f), `Mahua' (Madhuca latifolia Roxb.), `Karanj' (Pongamia pinnata (Linn.) Pierre) and `Chironji' (Buchnania lanzan Spreng.) were recorded. The frequency of fungi varied on different seeds. There was dominance of Aspergillus niger, A. flavus and Rhizopus nigricans in all the oilseeds under study. Oil quantities in infested seeds were found to be decreased in all the collected samples. This evidenced the activity of fungi causing seed deterioration.

4 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

021502   Chauhan P S;Singh S S (Tree Biol Lab, Bot Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ Campur-Badshahithaul, Tehri, Tehri Garhwal, , Email: pschauhanbot@gmail.com) : Effects of gamma rays and its combination with stik 500 ppm on Populus deltoides. Indian J Trop Biodiversity 2007, 15(1), 53-60.

Stem cuttings of P. deltoides (clone D-121) were irradiated with different levels of continuous (C) and fractionated (F) doses of gamma rays, i.e. 500R, 1kR, 2kR, 4kR, in the month of September to observe the sensitivity on sprouting and shoot growth behavior. The irradiated cuttings have also been treated with Stik 500ppm to observe its synergistic effect on different growth parameters. The irradiated cuttings exhibited early sprouting than controls. Maximum sprouting (57.1%) was recorded at 1kR-F, being minimum at 500R-C (20.0%) level after, 29 days of potting. Lateral branch arising from the main cuttings was favoured by continuous doses. The maximum length of lateral branches (15.5±2.7°cm) was obtained under 2kR-C level. Fractionated doses of 1kR-F proved to be more promising for mutational breeding on analysis of different parameters. Fractionated doses of gamma rays with Stik 500ppm showed protagonistic effects, continuous dose being less effective and showed antagonistic effects. The number of leaf formed per cutting has also enhanced by gamma ray treatments. The maximum number of leaves per cutting 21.0±1.2 was recorded at 1kR-C level followed by 2KR-F level (16.8±1.0). Mortality percentage of the sprouted buds was influenced by different combined and fractional doses of gamma rays. The maximum mortality percentage of the sprouted buds recorded at 500R-C + Stik 500ppm level and minimum at 1kR-F level (25%). LD values have been calculated for different parameters. The study shows that induced mutation can provide an important source of genetic variability and somatic mutation in the species.

2 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

021501   Borkataki S;Chutia M;Borthakur S K (Botany Dep, Nowgong College, Nagaon, Assam, Email: mahanaba@yahoo.co.uk) : Ethnobotany of biofencing among teagarden and ex-teagarden communities of Nagaon district of Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2008, 7(4), 666-8.

Raising plants as live fencing in home gardens is a traditional practice among the tea garden communities. An ethnobotanical study was carried out in order to document the indigenous knowledge about the plants grown as live fencing. Of 27 plants species documented that included shrubs, succulent shrubs and deciduous climbers, Bambusa sp. and Musa sp. were very common (95 and 80% occurrence), with potential economic value and also strong soil binding properties. The traditional biofencing practice is not only to protect the home gardens but also a part of conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity among tea garden communities.

021500   Bohra D R;Sharma S (Botany Dep, Bhupal Nobles'Post Graduate College, Udaipur-313 001) : Rhizosphere and rhizoplane mycoflora of some ferns from Rajasthan. Indian Fern J 2007, 24(1-2), 125-31.

Rhizosphere, rhizoplane and non-rhizosphere mycoflora of three selected ferns, viz. Cheilanlhea albomarginata Clarke, Teclaria coadnnata (J. Smith) C. Chr. (T. macrodonta), Asplenium pumilum var. hymenophylloides (Fee) Clarke, have been studied. Total ten fungal genera were isolated in which Aspergillus sp. and Fusarium sp. were dominating. Non-rhizospheric zone was found with highest fungal association. Out of these three ferns studied, highest fungal association was found with Asplenium pumiluni var. hymenophylloldes. Interaction of fungal population with the different fern genera has also been discussed in the light of antifungal chemicals present in them.

4 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

021499   Bhattacharjee S (Post Graduate Department of Botany, Hooghly Mohsin Coll (West Bengal Education Service), Chinsurah-712 001, Email: soumen1995@yahoo.com) : Involement of calcium and calmodulin in the acquisition of thermotolerance in Amaranthus lividus L.. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 337-43.

Heat caused reduction in membrane protein thiol level and increased accumulation of thiobarbituric acid reactive substances in 72 hour old germinating tissues thereby reducing germination and early growth performances. Calcium chelator (EGT A), calcium channel blocker (LaCl) and calmodulin inhibitor (trifluroperazine) aggravated the effects of heating and added calcium reversed them, implying that protection against heat induced oxidative damage and improvement of germination in Amaranthus requires calcium and calmodulin. Imposition of heat stress during early germination also causes accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) like O₂. and H₂O₂. Calcium treatment significantly reduced the accumulation of both the toxic ROS, while EGTA, LaCl₃ TFP treatment enhanced the accumulation. Activities of antioxidative enzymes catalase (CAT), ascorbate peroxidase (AP) and glutathione reductase (GR) and total thiol content decreased under heat stress in germinating Amaranthus seedlings. Seedlings raised with Ca²⁺ treatment under heat stress exhibit higher activities of CAT, GR and AP and total thiol level than the untreated plants. EGTA, LaCl₃ & TFP treatment, on the other hand significantly reduce the activities of all anti-oxidative enzymes and total thiol level. The work supports the view that Ca²⁺-signalling pathway plays significant role in limiting heat induced oxidative injury during recovery phase of post germination event in Amaranthus lividus.

1 illus, 34 ref

021498   Bera A K;Pati M K;Bera A (Plant Physiol Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252, Email: profakbera@rediffmail.com) : Electrotherapy of pre-sowing seed: a novel technique for yield improvement in corp plants. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 301-11.

Treating seeds with electric current (EC) improves yield over control in crop plants. EC treatment influences various physiological and biochemical activities in plants leading to higher yield. In monoecious cucurbits, it induces femaleness and reduces male : female f1owet" ratio. Although, this technology was first applied in cucurbitaceous plants to improve yield, but now it has been extended to other crops like cereals, pulses, oilseeds etc. and the results are very much encouraging as evidenced by review work. This technology might be considered as a reliable tool to improve yield in various crop plants.

2 tables, 52 ref

021497   Baronia A K;Mishra A S (Directrate of Farmer's Welfare and Agriculture Development, , Bhopal-462 004) : Ethnobotanical observations in the Sagar region of central India with reference to species of the genus Chlorophytum ker-gawi. Ultra Scient phys Sci 2007, 19(2), 225-8.

Chlorophytum Ker-Gawl. genus based ethnobotanical survey of the Sugar region was conducted at different forest sites revealed thai three species namely C. arundinaceum Baker, C. tuberosum Baker and C. borivilianum Sant. & Fern, are naturally found in the Sagar region whereas one specie C. comosum (Thunb.) Jacq. is restricted to botanical garden of the university and private nurseries only. This study has shown the typical man-nature relationship and religious medico-magic beliefs of the tribal people with musli plants.

1 tables, 5 ref

021496   Bajpai N;Singh P K (Botany Dep, Pt. J.N.P.G. Coll, Banda, (UP)) : Aquatic and semi-aquatic angiosperms of Banda district (U.P.). Prog Res 2007, 2(1-2), 151-2.

1 table, 5 ref

021495   Awasthi V;Garg S K (Pl Sci Dep, M.J.P. Rohilkhand Univ, Bareilly-243 001) : Effect of salicylic acid on enzymes of ammonium assimilation in maize seedling. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 393-5.

Response of salicylic acid application was studied in roots and shoot of six day old maize seedling. Glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) activity enhanced in root and shoot at lower concentrations of salicylic acid. However, glutamine synthetase (GS) and glutamate synthase (GOGAT) activities decreased with the increase in concentration of salicylic acid. Protein and total nitrogen content showed upward trend with application of salicyclic acid upto 50 μM but further increase in its concentration resulted in lower protein and total nitrogen content.

1 illus, 1 table, 21 ref

021494   Attri L K;Bhanwra R K;Nayyar H;Vij S P (Botany Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014) : Post pollination developmental changes in floral organs and ovules in an ornamental orchid-Cymbidium alolfolium (l.) SW.. J Orchid Soc India 2007, 21(1-2), 29-34.

The pollination controlled developmental changes in floral organs and ovules have been investigated in an ornamental orchid i.e. C. aloifolium (L.) Sw. It is observed that pollen grains germinate within 24-48 hr of pollination and pollen tubes enter the ovules 10-12 days after pollination (DAP). The placental ridges become active only after pollination and these branch and rebranched so as to form finger like ovule primordia at 12-16 DAP. The megaspore mother cells undergoes meiosis so as to form a linear triad (two megaspore and upper dyad cell) at 26-30 DAP. The chalazal megaspore become functional and divides three times to forms an 8-nucleate embryo sac at 42-46 DAP. The embryo sac undergoes abortion at this stage due to a failure of pollen tubes to enter the ovule as indicated by fluorescent microscopy. The species under study has also been compared with closely related taxon i.e C. pendulum with a view to elucidate the relationships. It is observed that C. aoilfolium follows a monosporic mode of embryo sac development while a bisporic type in C. pendulum; the flowers undergo bending (hyponasty) after pollination in C. aloifolium, but it is absent in C. pendulum.

4 illus, 18 ref

021493   Anuradha S;Seeta Ram Rao S (NO, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: ssrrao2002@redifmail.com) : Effect of 24-epibrassinolide on the growth and antioxidant enzyme activities in radish seedlings under lead toxicity. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(4), 396-400.

Supplementation of 24-epibrassinolide reduced lead (Pb) toxicity and enhanced the growth in radish (Raphanus sativus L.) seedlings. The activity of antioxidant enzymes like catalase, ascorbate peroxidase, guiacol peroxidase, superoxide dismutase showed an increase in brassinosteroid treated Pb-stressed seedlings when compared to control as well as lead alone treated seedlings. Supplementation of 24-epibrassinolide to Pb stress treatments was also associated with reduced peroxidase activity and increase in the total glutathione content. The studies demonstrated the ameliorating ability of 24-epibrassinolide in scavenging the reactive oxygen species thereby reducing the oxidative stress induced by Pb in radish seedlings.

^ssc2 illus, 24 ref

021492   Anita Kumari;Thakur V (Tree Improvement and Genetic Resources Dep, Dr Y S Parmar Univ of Hort and Forestry, Nauni, Solan-173 230) : Phyto-sociological analysis of Lantana camara invaded chirpine forests in mid hills of Himachal Pradesh. Indian J Trop Biodiversity 2007, 15(1), 61-6.

Study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of Lantana camara on floristic diversity of chirpine forests in H.P. at different altitudes, i.e. from 700-1700m. Pinus roxburghii was the dominant tree species at all the selected sites. Distribution pattern of tree species was mostly contiguous and random, while regular distribution was observed only in one tree species. Species diversity of tree species was more in the invaded area then non- invaded areas and declined in case of shrubs. Species richness for tree species was much high in the invaded areas. In shrubs, richness increased in the invaded areas at low altitudes and decreased at middle range and high altitudinal range. Concentration of dominance for tree species was more in invaded areas at low altitudes than at middle and high altitudinal range.

3 tables, 26 ref

021491   Akhtar J (Plant Pathol Dep, Coll of Agric, G.B. Pant Univ of Agric and Technol, Pantnagar-263 145) : Bioefficacy of fungicides and sensitivity of the isolates of Phomopsis vexans. Pantnagar J Res 2007, 5(1), 62-5.

2 tables, 11 ref

020591   Srivastava S;Srivastava P (Dep of Botany, C.M.P. College, University of Allahabad-211 002, , Email: sn_bryo@yahoo.co.in) : Scapania stephanii K. Muell.:a hepatic new to Indian bryoflora. Phytomorphology 2007, 57(3-4), 133-5.

Leafy liverwort, Scapania stephanii K. Muell., is being recorded as new to Indian bryoflora. The species which is characterised by strongly thick-walled cortex of the stem, decurrent bases of leaf-lobule and never triangularly narrowed leaf-lobes has been compared with the `type' specimen from Mt. Yohgagura, Japan. Though Indian plants agree well with the `type', yet these possess smaller teeth at the margin of the leaf-lobules. An `ecotype' of this species having smaller plants and poorly dentate margin of the leaf-lobes with sharply defined apex has also been identified.

1 illus

020590   Srivastava S;Singh A K (K.S. Saket (P.G.) College, Ayodhya, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of two isolates of rice tungro disease on chlorophyII content of rice (Oryza sativa L.). Vegetos 2007, 20(2), 31-2.

Rice Tungro Virus (RTV) infected rice leaves showed marked reduction in Chlorophyll, Xanthophyll & Carotene and Rate of photosynthesis. Isolate I was found to be more severe.

1 table, 9 ref

020589   Srivastava A;Khare R C;chandra S (NO, , D-15, Sector `G', Alijanj, Lucknow-226 020, Email: chandrasum@rediffmail.com) : Vasculature of the rhizome in two species of loxogramme. Phytomorphology 2007, 57(3-4), 137-44.

Form and structure of the vascular cylinder of the rhizome of Loxogramme involuta and L. chinensis are described. The present study reveals that the Loxogramme is perhaps morphologically distinct from the Grammitidaceae and should be placed in Polypodiaceae as an advanced member. Based on comparative morphology of the vasculature of the rhizome along with other morphological characters, Loxogramme is here considered more closely allied to the polypodioid group of the family Polypodiaceae and perhaps represents an off shoot of the line of descent of the Polypodiaceae from Davalliaceae. The phylogentic tree based on molecular data mostly correlates well with overall morphological similarities reported here.

2 illus, 56 ref

020588   Singh D P;Mall T P (Post Graduate Dep of Botany, Kisan P.G. College, Bahraich-271 801) : Mycrobial diversity on certain aspects of sal forest. Vegetos 2007, 20(2), 55-7.

Twenty two fungal species belonging to thirteen genera were recorded. The total number of fungi recorded in Rhizosphere, Rhizoplane and Soil were thirteen, fourteen and twelve respectively.

1 table, 14 ref

020587   Singh D N;Tewari J P (Plant Pathology Lab, Botany Dep, M.L.K. (P.G.) College Balrampur-271 201) : Anatomical abnormalities in Capsicum annum L. infected by chilli mosaic virus (ch M.V.). Vegetos 2007, 20(2), 69-71.

The observation revealed that changes in the mesophyll of mottled cucurbit leaves were more closely crowded, longer and narrower in comparison with healthy leaves. The mesophylls in green areas of infected leaf were identical to healthy one, however mesophyll in yellow areas were reduced in number and smaller in size. In the stem of infected plants, xylem vessels were enlarged and reduced in number. The phloem and xylem were affected in later stage of the growth. Vascular bundles were reduced in size. In infected roots epidermal cells were recorded to be thinner than the healthy roots. The size of metaxylem and protoxylem were reduced in infected plants.

6 illus, 12 ref

020586   Sharma V (Botany Dep, University of Allahabad, Allahabad-211 002) : Growth resposne of Bipolaris tetramera (Mckinney) shoemaker on various nutrient media and different temperatures. J phytol Res 2007, 20(1), 159-60.

Influence of different nutrient media and different temperature (0°C - 40°C) was tested on growth and sporulation of Bipolaris tetramera (Mckinney) Shoemaker. It was observed that the maximum growth and excellent sporulation of the pathogen was obtained on Dox medium. The pathogen failed to grow on 0, 5, 10 and 40°C but the maximum growth and excellent sporulation of the pathogen was recorded on 25°C.

2 tables, 5 ref

020585   Sharma S C;Malic S A;Sharma A (P.G. Botany Dep, G.F. College, Shajahanpur-242 001) : Surey of the exotic plants naturalized in the vegetation of Shahjahanpur district (U.P.). Vegetos 2007, 20(2), 33-43.

Shahjahanpur district lies in the Terai region of Upper Gangetic Plain with high state of cultivation. The vegetation comprises several plants that belonged to India and other native countries. The study reveals that exotic plants were introduced in this district both adventitiously and intentionally with food grains and seeds of economic plants. On the basis of analysis of vegetation 178 exotic species have been recognized in the district. They belong to 148 genera and 62 families. The cultivated species are 119 while wild species are 59 naturalized in the vegetation of the district. Gymnosperms and monocots are represented by 4 and 10 species respectively. Clerodendrum aculeatum Griseb, Parthenium hysterophorus L. and Solvia anthemifolia (Juss.) R.Br. ex Lessong are the recent entrants.

1 table, 7 ref

020584   Sharma S;Agarwal A (Botany Dep, Bareily College, Bareilly-242 001) : Differential action of zinc, nickel and cadmium on total chlorophyII content, total itrogen content and grain yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum cv : 2425). Vegetos 2007, 20(2), 27-30.

Influence of four concentrations (5, 10, 25, 50 mg/kg soil) of three heavy metals viz. zinc, nickel and cadmium on the total chlorophyll content, total nitrogen content and grain yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum cv. 2425) was recorded. The effect of heavy metals on these parameters varied with the level of concentration. Zinc and nickel stimulate the total chlorophyll content, total nitrogen content and grain yield at lower concentration (5, 10 mg/kg soil), however, with a further increase in zinc and nickel concentration, decrease in all the parameters was observed. Zinc was found to be more beneficial than nickel at lower concentration. Cadmium led to continuous decrease in all parameters with an increasing concentration.

3 tables, 23 ref

020583   Sharma M;Sharma M (Microbiology Lab, Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: mukesh.uniraj@gmil.com) : Effect of hydrogen ion concentrations on the growth and sporulation of soil borne keratinophilic fungi in vitro. J phytol Res 2007, 20(1), 115-18.

Hydrogen ion concentration (pH) plays a major role in determining the growth of fungi and governs the metabolic activities of growing organisms both in nature and artificial cultures. Every fungus shows excellent growth at certain range of pH values of the medium and fails to grow at high and low pH. The optimum pH for best growth of each fungus differed due to the difference in their metabolic activities. For the study various hydrogen ion concentrations viz. 2.0,3.0,4.0,5.0,6.0,6.5,7.0, 7.5,8.0,8.5,9.0,9.5, 10.0, 10.5, 11.0, 12.0 were studied to evaluate the growth and sporulation of two keratinophilic fungi Chrysosporium tropicum and Trichophyton mentagrophytes. C. tropicum showed excellent sporulation at 7.5-9.0 pH values and best growth was achieved at 7.5 pH. T. mentagrophytes showed excellent spomlation from 7.5-9.5 pH values and best growth at 8.0 and 8.5 pH. From the above findings it can be concluded that hydrogen ion concentration is an essential requirement for the growth and sporulation of keratinophilic fungi.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref