019469   Rajnish;Singh A K;Singh P R (Botany Dep, B D Evening College, Mithapur, Patna-800 001) : Effect of fungicidal storage of vegetable seeds on their germination. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 321-3.

Captan, Thiram, Dithane M-45, Bavistin and Benlate in the concentration of 0.3 and 0.4% were found to kill the fungi causing considerable suppression of germination of vegetable seeds. The enhancement in germination of tomato, lablab bean and cabbage was recorded due to the fungicidal storage of seeds, particularly due to Bavistin and Benlate. The radicles were longest due to the noted last two fungicides.

2 tables, 15 ref

019468   Rai A;Jhangir M;Vikram Kumar;Kant S (Botany Dep, University of Jammu, Jammu (J&K)) : Floristics and biological spectrum of Surinsar lake catchment, Jammu & Kashmir. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 139-45.

The biological spectrum of Surinsar lake showed that out of 136 species 45 were therophytes, 15 hydrophytes, 10 hemicryptophytes, 3 geophytes, 14 chamaephytes, 15 nanophanerophytes, 30 macrophanerophytes, 2 lianas and 2 epiphytes. The percentage of therophytes and phanerophytes was higher in comparison to Raunkiaer's normal spectrum revealing thero-phanerophytic phytoclimate of the area.

2 illus, 4 tables, 10 ref

019467   Raghav P S;Payal Lodha;Arora D K (Plant Pathology. Tissue Culture and Biotechnology Laboratory. Botany D, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004) : Histochemical studies on leaf galls and normal leaf of Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. BR.. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 193-8.

Galls are localized outgrowth of various host-organs in which host cells are stimulated to excessive growth by parasite. Alstonia scholaris (L.) R. Br. is a very beautiful ornamental tree, which is commonly known as pagoda tree because of its pagoda like growing habit. But the galls on its leaves adversely affect the looks and thus the economic value and also cause a lot of damage to the host tissue. In the present study, investigations were carried out on histochemical localization of different metabolites and enzymes in leaf gall induced by the Homopteran, Pauropsylla tuberculata Crawf. and normal leaf. An alteration in localization of metabolites and enzymes due to cecidogenesis was observed. Relatively higher amount of metabolites detected in gall tissue suggest altered metabolism of the host tissue due to pathogenesis.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

019466   Parveen R;Kazi N;Prakash;Hosamani A;Lakshman H C (P.G. Department of Botany. (Microbiology Lab), Karnatak Univ, Dharawad (Karnataka)) : Effect of AM fungi and other microbial inoculants on chlorophyll content of Andrographis paniculata wall. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 147-50.

The effect of AM fungi (Glomus fasciculatum & Glomus mosseae) and recommended dosage of N.P.K. with Azotobacter, phosphate solubilizing bacteria and Aspergillum awamori inoculation on Andrographis paniculata was studied and compared to uninoculated or control plants. There was a significant increase in N.P.K. content, total Chlorophyll content and root colonization due to co-inoculation of Andrographis paniculata. However, root colonization drastically reduced with the application of nitrogen and phosphrous dosages. The results indicate that nitrogen fixing bacteria can increase N-fixing capacity with mycorrhizal inoculation.

2 tables, 13 ref

019465   Parmar P J (Botanical, Survey of India, Jodhpur) : New variety of Hygrophila schulli (Hamilton) M.R. Almeidda & S.M. Almeida from Gujarat, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 149-50.

In the paper white-flowered form of Hygrophila schulli (Hamilton) M.R. Almeida & S.M. Almeida is given varietal status as var. alba Parmar, P.J. var. nov. A detailed description has been provided, besides latin diagnosis.

4 ref

019464   Parmar P J (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Jodhpur) : Some un-recorded plants from Gujarat (India). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 98-112.

The paper deals with 38 species, not so far recorded from Gujarat State and 8 species of doubtful occurrence.

33 ref

019463   Pande A;Kakade B R (Mycology & Plant Pathology Dep, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004) : Three new ascomycetes from India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 151-6.

Three new species of Ascomycetes, viz. Phaeotrichosphaeria sivanesii sp. nov. with Endopragmiella sivanesii sp. nov as its anamorph state, Roussoella amygdalyspora sp. nov. with Cytosphaera as its anamorph state and Thaxterina microspora sp. nov. are described from India.

1 illus, 9 ref

019462   Panda T;Panda B;Mishra N (Botany Dep, S N College, Rajkanika, Dist Kendrapara-754 220) : Comparative study of penicillia from soil, leaf, litter and air in a coastal sandy belt of Orissa. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 335-6.

Occurrence and distribution of Penicillia was studied from soil, leaf, litter and air. A total of 26 species were isolated of which soil had a share of 20 species, leaf and litter had 20 species and the air contributed 19 species. Litter contained higher population of Penicillia than the soil and air. The dominant species were P. citrinum, P. lanosum, P. minioluteum, P. nigricam, P. oxalicum, P. nibritm and P. verruculosum.

1 tables, 20 ref

019461   Paliwal S P;Yadav A;Paliwal A (Development Botany Laboratory. Botany Dep, Narain PG College, Shikohabad-205 135) : Variations in the size of cambial initials and their derivatives in Madhuca indica Linn. and Terminalia arjuna Bedd. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 279-85.

Two tropical trees, viz. Madhuca indica (Sapotaceae), a deciduous and Terminaha arjuna (Combretaceae), an evergreen were investigated to find out size variations between cambial initials and their derivatives in the phloem and xylem. Both trees possess non-storeyed cambium and a diffuse porous wood. The fusiform initials are elongated with beaded tangential walls and abruptly tapering ends. The ray initials are rectangular and heterogeneous. Both fusiform and ray initials undergo variable dimensional changes due to intrusive growth and shifting of their end walls during differentiation and maturation into different elements of phloem and xylem. Vessel elements gain 7 and 9.5 times widening in M. indica and T. arjuna over their respective mother cells. The phloem and xylem fibres gain maximum elongation due to intrusive growth and become 2 to 3 times long as compared to their initials. The sieve tubes are slightly shorter whereas the companion cells are 1/3. to 1/2 the length of fusiform initials. Very little or no dimensional changes have been recorded in fusiform initials during their transformation into parenchyma strands of phloem and xylem. The ray cells in both the phloem and xylem region become lengthier whereas their width remains unaltered as compared to their initials in the cambium.

3 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

019460   Ndukwu B C;Okoli B E (Plant Science and Biotechnology Dep, University of Port Harcourt, P.M.B. 5323, Port Harcourt, Rivers state, Nigeria) : Distribution of ergastic substances : tannins in tissues of Euphorbia L. species and its relation to taxonomy. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 194-9.

The occurrence and distribution of tannins in transverse section of tissues of the stem of 21 species of the genus Euphorbia L. (Euphorbiaceae) were examined using light microscopy. The presence of tannins in the tissues of the species studied was confirmed histochemically. Tannin containing cells were observed in the tissues of most species investigated. Variations, however, existed in the distribution and frequency of tanniniferous cells among the different tissues and between the species. The preponderance of tannins in epidermal cells including trichomes in many of species corroborates the view that these ergastic substances may have protective functions in plants. The taxonomic value of variations in tannin occurrence and distribution in this taxoii is explored.

1 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

019459   Narain S;Singh R (Duthie Herbarium, Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : Flora of Bundelkhand region, Uttar Pradesh-family Fabaceae. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 200-19.

The plants of family Fabaceae are compiled from district floras of Bundelkhand region (U.P.)- The region includes seven district, i.e. Banda, Jalaun, Lalitpur, Hamirpur, Mahoba, Chitrakoot and Jhansi. During the study of herbarium specimens of these districts from Duthie Herbarium, Department of Botany, University of Allahabad, family Fabaceae consists 78 species of 36 genera in the Bundelkhand region, while Duthie (1903 - 29) included 57 genera and 189 species of family Fabaceae in the Flora of Upper Gangetic Plain from this region. The region is represented by 51 herbs, 8 shrubs, 8 climbers and 11 trees of legumes.

16 ref

019458   Nair B;Kalamkar V;Budhanwar P D;Suryapujary S M (Botany Dep, College of Agriculture, Nagpur-440 001) : Studies on heterosis in mustard (Brassica juncea L.). J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 287-91.

Fifteen elite genotypes of mustard were crossed with two testers in line x tester fashion, and F1's along with parents were evaluated to estimate the magnitude of heterosis for yield and yield contributing characters in mustard. Highest magnitude of heterosis for seed yield per plant was obtained in crosses viz, vardhan x TM-17, Vardhan x Laxmi and vardhan x RL-1359. Hence, these crosses may be utilized to identify superior recombinants after homozygosity has reached in mustard improvement programme.

2 tables, 4 ref

019457   Muralidhara Reddy V;Wakte P S (Microbiology Dep, Dnyanopasak College, Parbhani (M.S.)) : Impact of lonar lake water and N,P, K as additional growth medium supplements on Spirulina spp. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 159-64.

Deals with the possible effect of Lonar lake water as growth medium for Spirulina spp. Effect on growth and pigment formation of Spirulina in eleven different media combinations, along with ingredients of the Zarrouks medium, N: P: K and rockphosphate as additional growth supplement were observed. Experimental evidence clearly indicates comparatively elevated growth rate of Spirulina in test medium Ml and Mll, as compared to the other media. Addition of rockphoshate in Lonar lake water exerts beneficial effect on growth of Spirulina spp. When the data compared in terms of pigment formation, it was observed that additional medium supplements increased pigmentation in Spirulina.

3 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

019456   Mukesh Sharma;Vats S (Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: mukesh.uniraj@gmail.com) : Ethnobotany of medicinal plants used by the tribal people of Rajasthan for digestive disorders. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 337-8.

The floral wealth of Rajasthan is rich and varied. An ethnobotanical survey was undertaken to collect information from traditional healers on the use of 16 medicinal plants species, in different districts of Rajasthan, which cure digestive disorders. The indigenous knowledge of local traditional healers and the native plants used for medicinal purposes were collected through questionnaire and personal interviews during field trips.

3 ref

019455   Mishra K N;Siya Ram (Botany Dep, T.D.P.G. College, Jaunpur, Uttar Pradesh-222 002) : Comprehensive study of phytoplanktonic community growing in polluted ponds of Jaunpur city (Uttar Pradesh). J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 317-20.

Deals with 26 algal species occurring in polluted water bodies of Jaunpur city. The occurrence, abundance and their seasonal variation in relation to the input of nutrient and heavy metals in the habitats have been studied. Algal indicator species in relation to pollution monitoring program has been precisely emphasized. Anabaena circinalis, Microcystis aeruginosa, Phormidium spp. and Euglena. are the dominant species in the water site 1st and Ilnd (Polluted site). Chlorella spp. Cosmarium quadrum, Spirogyra crassa, Cymbella affinis and Synedra ulna are dominant species in water site IIIrd and IVth (less polluted site). Seasonal variation of the temperature, water depth, pH, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solid, BOD, COD, Alkanity, Ammonia, Phosphate and Iron were in the range of 21 to 23°C, 29 to 85 cm, 5.3 to 6.9, 2.1 to 7.8 mg/l, 65 to 200 mg/l, 12 to 76 mg/l,40 to 220 mg/l, 10 to 28 mg/l 0.2 to 0.98 mg/l 0.05 to 0.23 mg/l and 1.1 to 3.2 mg/l, respectively. Total Plankton density ranged between 20 to 1400/1 of water. Studies on Phytoplankton generic diversity revealed the presence of Chlorophyceae (11 genera), Bacillariophyceae (6 genera), Myxophyceae (8 genera) and Euglenophyceae (1 genus).

3 tables, 72 ref

019454   Meena S L (Botanical, Survey of India, Jodhpur-342 008) : Ethnobotany of Banaskantha district Gujarat state. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 113-127.

The paper deals with ethnobotanical aspects of Banaskantha district (Gujarat). The district is inhabitat by a number of tribal communities who use forest products in different ways for their daily needs, like construction of huts, field fencing, household articles, timber, fodder, fuel, fiber, dyes, tannin, gum and resin and as food plants.

5 tables, 7 ref

019453   Meena A L;Kumar P (Laboratory of Plant Tissue Culture and Secondary Metabolites, Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: godgift1955@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of gamma radiation on germination and plant height of Lycopersicon esculentum var. pusa early dwarf. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 333-4.

Investigation, effect of gamma radiation on the germination of seeds of Lycopersicon esculentum var. pusa early dwarf has been studied. Fifty seeds of Lycopersicon esculentum were irradiated to varying doses (10, 20, 30, 40 KR) of gamma radiation using Co⁶⁰ gamma cell irradiator. Irradiated and control seeds were sown on the same day in different pots. Morphological characters were monitored daily. It was observed that germination started on fifth day in all the pots and it was completed with in fifteen days from the date of sowing. Maximum germination was observed on 9th or 10th day in all the seeds but maximum percentage( 90 %) of seed germination was observed in the seeds irradiated to 30 KR even more than the control (54%). There after the percentage germination decreased with the increase in radiation dose. Maximum plant height (69 cms) was observed in 20 KR and minimum plant height (37 cms) was in 40 KR which is again less than the control.

2 illus, 9 ref

019452   Meena A L;Kumar P (Laboratory of Plant Tissue Culture and Secondary metabolites. Botany D, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur, Email: godgift1955@yahoo.co.in) : Mutagenic response of methyl methane sulphonate (MMS) on germination and plant height in Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 313-15.

Study undertaken is based on morphological characters viz. germination, initiation time, maximum germination time and plant height in the first generation of Lycopersicon esculentum variety pusa early dwarf. The present investigation provides a relative account of morphological effect of Methyl Methane Sulphonate (MMS) on the test plant. Germination percentage increased in seeds treated with 0.1 % concentration of MMS but thereafter decreased with increasing concentration (from 0.2 to 0.4 %). Initiation time, maximum germination time and height after 6 and 8 weeks increased with increase in concentration (from 0.2 to 0.4%) of MMS. Plant height showed maximum increase with ,0.4% of MMS in 6 to 12 weeks old plants. However, effect of 0.05% and 0.75% MMS was negligible regarding all parameters when compared with that of control. Hence, on the basis of results obtained 0.1% concentration of MMS was found most suitable for pusa early dwarf variety of Lycopersicon esculentum.

2 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

019451   Maneesha Abraham;Reghuvaran D K;Varghese M C; Sharma M (Post Graduate Department of Botany, Devamatha College, Kuravilangad, Kottayam, Kerala, Email: vimal.mohan@yahoo.com) : Cytotoxicity of some common food colours on root meristem of Allium cepa (L.) and Hippeastrum reginae (L.) herbert. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 199-206.

The synthetic food colours like Brilliant Blue FCF and Carmoisine selected for the present investigation are those widely used in Indian food and pharmaceutical industry. Studies were conducted with different concentrations of the above food colours on root meristems of Allium cepa and Hippeastrum reginae. Healthy plantlets with young root tips were dipped in the food colour solutions and were studied for mitotic, chromosomal and other nuclear abnormalities after 2, 4 and 6 hours of treatment. The results showed that the food colors are capable of causing chromosomal as well as spindle aberration and other cellular nuclear abnormalities indicating its genotoxicity.

4 tables, 25 ref

019450   Maliya S D;Singh S M (Toxonomy, & Biodiversity Division National Botanical Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226 001) : Herbaceous flora of district Mainpuri Utar Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 220-66.

The paper presents an account of herbaceous flora of district Mainpuri excluding trees and aquatics. It includes 234 species of Angiosperms belonging to family Acanthaceae to Zygophyllaceae. The botanical wealth of district Mainpuri has not been explored so far. The status of species, population and ecological diversity is also not known; therefore, the base line information has been generated through this study on the precise number of the plant species and extent of the variations, their identification, abundance, distribution and economic importance.

14 ref

019449   Kiran B R;Hamsa A;Puttaiah E T (Department of P.G. Studies and Research in Envirnmental Science, Bio-Ccience Complex, Kuvempu University, Shankaraghatta-577 451) : Aquatic and marshy plants and their economic importance in Bhadra reservoir projectregion, Karnataka. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2007, 6(3), 429-32.

The study of 15 species of aquatic and marshy amphibious plants belonging to 13 families occurring in the Bhadra Reservoir Project region, Karnataka were found, and their description and economic importance is presented. Efforts have been made to find out the correct names in accordance with the latest International codes of Botanical nomenclature.

10 ref

019448   Khan A A (Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, Aligarh-202 002) : Herbaceous angiospermous species diversity of khadar ecosystem of Bijnor II. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 4-18.

Report 162 species of flowering plants belonging to 114 genera and 77 families, from Campanulaceae to Cyperaceae. General statistics of the flora is given. threats faced by this fragile and species rich ecosystem are also discussed in brief.

12 ref

019447   Juhi Singh;Satya Narain (Duthie Herbarium. Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allabahad, Uttar Pradesh) : The ethnomedicinal account of Sonbhadra district (Uttar Pradesh). J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 255-64.

The account deals with the total 171 angiospermic species belonging to 150 genera of 60 families, which have immediate and effective solution for making comfortable future for human population against diseases like gastrointestinal problems, fever, epilepsy, leucorrhoea, male and female contraceptives, body pain, wound, cough and cold, snake and scorpion bite, jaundice, diabetes etc. The Dicotyledons are represented by 153 species of 130 genera and 51 families, while Monocotyledons are represented by 18 species of 15 genera and 9 families. The percentage of Dicotyledons: Monocotyledons is 89.4:10.6. It is vital and essential to integrate activities involving both biodiversity and cultural conservation into such works. Research needs to be enhanced to identify plants with medicinal value and to isolate compounds of medicinal importance.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

019446   Jadeja B A;Odedra N K;Sinh R S (Botany Dep, M.D. Science College, Porbandar-360 575) : Phenological observations on some dry deciduous forest trees at Barda hills, Gujarat. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 51-5.

Records phenological data of 15 forest tree species, besides observations on leaf-fall, new foliage, flowering and fruiting. These data are useful to analyze the phenological pattern of tree species in the dry deciduous forests along disturbance gradient to understand the response of tree species to climatic factors and the periodicity.

18 ref

019445   Iqbal M;Datta A K (Botany Dep, Genetics and Plant Breeding Section, Kalyani Univ, Kalyani-741 235, Email: dattaanimesh@gmail.com) : Seed protein profiles in Withania somnifera (L.) dun. plant types. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 189-92.

Seed protein content and electrophoretic banding pattern of seed protein using SDS-PAGE has been observed in Withania somnifera (L.) Dun. plant types (control and 9 induced macromutants). Thick stem I, bushy, broad leaf and late flowering mutants had relatively higher protein contents. Gross similarities and differences in electrophoretic banding pattern have been noted among the genotypes. Specific protein bands have been detected in different mutants. Results obtained have been discussed.

1 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

019444   Iqbal Habib;Chaturvedi U K (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Sitapur-261 125) : Epiphytic algal flora of fresh water bodies of Bundelkhand division of Uttar Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 1-3.

Deals with taxonomic enumeration of 10 taxa of Chaetophorales collected from different localities situated in and around Bundelkhand division of Uttar Pradesh during 2001-2002. All these taxa have been recorded for the first time from this part of state.

10 ref

019443   Imran M S;Bagde U S (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Santacruz (E), Mumbai (M.S.)) : Screening of Aristolochia elegans for antibacterial activity. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 219-22.

The mcthanolic extracts of the leaf, stem, root and flower of Aristolochia elegaits were individually assayed for their antibacterial activity. Based on the ethno pharmacological information antibacterial activities of methanol extracts of different parts of Aristolochia elegaits were determined by in vitro bioassay using agar cup diffusion-method against clinical isolates of Morganella morganii, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli. The leaf and stem extracts showed the most potent antibacterial activity against Morganella morganii and Klebsiella pneumoniae while no activity was observed in case of flower extract. The most active plant parts were assayed for their Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) by broth dilution method.

2 Tables, 15 Ref

019442   Huseyinova R;Kilinc M;Kutbay H G (Faculty of Science and Arts, Biology Dep, Ondokruz Mayis Univ, 55139 Kurupelit-Samsun/Turkey) : Anatomical and morphological study on Helleborus orientalis lam. (Ranunculaceae). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 38-46.

Morphological and anatomical properties of Helleborus orientalis Lam. belonging to Ranunculaceae L. were examined. Some morphological properties of H. orientalis are very conspicuous. The colour of sepals is yellow, petals are converted to nectars. In addition, the buds are grown under the soil. The length and width of root, petiole, pedicel, petaloid, stamens of H. orientalis are documentiated for the first time. These properties of the examined species have some differencies from vFlora of Turkey" (Davis, 1965) and from the "Atlas of medical Plants" of previous USSR (Dmitriyeva, 1962). Anatomically, it is most obvious property that there is a thick cuticle layer at all organs and cells of lamellar (plate) collenchyma and sclerenchyma of stem of H. orientalis. The number of xylem arms in root is four. The leaves are dorsiventral (bifacial).

7 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

019441   Habib I (Botany Dep, Govt. P.G. College, Sitapur-261 125) : Contribution to the desmids of Sitapur, Uttar Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 167-73.

The communication deals with morphotaxonomic enumeration of 35 taxa of desmids collected from different localities situated in and around of Sitapur Districts during 2002-03, Notes on forms showing slight variations in their morphological attributes have also been given. All these taxa have been recorded for the first time from this part of the State. The genera of the desmids represented in the area include : Closterium (12 spp.), Pleurotaenium (1 sp.), Euastrum (1 sp.), Cosmarium (19 spp.), Arthrodesmus (1 sp.) and Staurastrum (1 sp.).

36 ref

019440   Gupta V P;Yadav A S (Post Graduate Department of Botany, R. R. College, Alwar-301 001) : Ecology of Cassia tora L. in the Sariska tiger reserve forest in Rajasthan. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 265-9.

Seed characteristics and growth behaviour of an invasive species, Cassia tora were studied in various micro-environmental situations in the Sariska reserve forest in north-east Rajasthan. Soil moisture content was observed to be the main factor which influences its different phenophases. It exhibited higher vegetative growth and seed production at the base as compared to the middle and top of the hill slopes. Cassia tora showed not only the plastic reduction in vegetative and reproductive growth but also in the number of seeds per pod and seed size even in the same plant.

1 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

019439   Gupta R;Chandra S;Shahi A K (Biodiversity & Applied Botny Dep, Regional Research Laboratory, Jammu) : Optimization of Germination and spacing on Abelomoschus moschatus Medic. under subtropical conditions. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 157-60.

Abelomoschus moschatus Medic., commonly known as Musk Dana, is cultivated for its musk scented seeds, useful in perfumery and medicine. The seeds are brought from forest area of Madhya Pradesh and introduced under subtropical conditions of Jammu region. Two sets of experiments were conducted separately in Lab and field conditions, respectively. In first set of experiment, mean germination percentage under ambient temperature regime and different environmental conditions were studied to optimize suitable temperature range and to increase the germination capacity percentage <62>80%. Seed output and reproductive capacity were calculated as 200 seed/capsule and 155.83 no. respectively. In second set of experiment, a trial was carried out at Field Research Station, RRL Jammu during the year 2001-2003 to optimize spacing for getting maximum seed yield, oil content and oil quality. The plant performed better at 50 x 50 cm spacing in terms of seed yield (15.40 q/ha), oil content (0.31%), Farnesyl acetate 3.49 q/ha and Ambrettolide 0.74 q/ha. The optimum temperature was 25°C for more than 80% seed germination.

3 tables, 11 ref

019438   Ganesan S;Manikandan P;Sekar R (Centre for Research and P.G. Dep of Botany, Thiagarajar College (Autonomous), Madurai-625 009, Email: sganesan76@yahoo.com) : Angiospermic parasitic plants and their hosts in the southern districts of Tamilnadu, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 63-71.

A survey was made to find out the angiospermic parasitic plants and their hosts in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu, India. In total 84 host species belonging to 35 families are infested by 14 parasitic plants. Among the parasitic plants, one is root parasite and the remaining affects aerial parts. The host ranges of different parasites and their frequency are also discussed in this paper.

1 table, 19 ref

019437   Dwivedi S;Misra P K;Suseela M R (NO, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow) : Diversity of chlorococcales from fresh water habitates of central and western Uttar Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 19-26.

Deals with 28 chlorococcalean members belonging to 17 genera. Of these, Selenastrum consists the maximum four species, followed by Oocystis, Ankistrodesmus and Crucigenia (3 spp. each) and Chlorococcum and Coelastrum (2 spp. each). Rest of the genera, viz. Schroederia, Hydrodictyon, Sorastrum, Tetraedron, Chlorella, Gloetanium, Nephrocytium, Botryococcus and Kirchneriela are represented by a single species. The common and rare species were also identified on the basis of their occurrence in different ponds and lakes for conservation purposes.

2 illus, 17 ref

019436   De Britto A J;Petchimuthu K;Nirmal Kumar N; Rekha G S (Plant Molecular Biology Research Unit, Plant Biology and Biotechnology, St, Xavier's College (Autonomous), Palayamkottai-627 002) : Preliminary phytochemical studies on a medicinal plant Mimosa pudica L. (Mimosaceae). J Econ Taxon Bot 2008, 32(1), 86-9.

A preliminary phytochemical analysis was carried out on Mimosa pudica L., a very useful and much exploited medicinal plant of Tirunelveli Hills in Tamil Nadu. The air - dried leaf powder was extracted with polar and non-polar solvents, such as petroleum ether (40-60°C), benzene, chloroform, ethanol, and distilled water. Physico-chemical parameters, fluorescence analysis and phytochemical analysis were carried out. The preliminary study will be helpful to study the active principles using modern techniques in the later part of this work.

14 ref

019435   Byatanal M B;Sabannavar S J;Lakshman H C; Hiremath S G (Botany Dep, Microbiology Lab, Karnatak Univ, Dharwad-580 003) : Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungal association and its importance in some edge plants. Nat Envir Pollut Technol 2007, 6(3), 535-8.

A survey of arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on 15 edge plants was undertaken, and percent of mycorrhizal colonization and spore number per 50g soil was determined. Varied percent of root colonization with varied spore number was recorded. Altogether 21 AM spores were isolated. The results revealed that Genus Glomus was most predominant among the recovered spore genera. The incidence of stunted plant growth, lower stem diameter, lower length of leaves, chlorosis and thin leaves with lower content of total chlorophyll pigment was demonstrated in those edge plants, which were without or less root colonization. However, edge plants, with higher AM colonization, showed improved plant growth, increased stem diameter, larger leaves without chlorosis and significantly increased total chlorophyll content in the leaves. This indicates the importance of AM fungal association in edge plants.

4 tables, 14 ref

019434   Boominathan M;Sundararaman M;Manoharan C (P.G. and Research Dep of Botany & Microbiology, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College, Poondi-613 503) : Biodiversity of microbes in dairy effluent. Pollut Res 2007, 26(2), 271-6.

Investigation was carried out to assess the impact of dairy effluent on the microbial diversity viz. bacteria, fungi and cyanobacteria. Results of one year ecological study revealed that altogether 9 species of bacteria, 11 species of fungi and 20 species of cyanobacteria were isolated from the effluent stream. Among bacteria, Pseudomonas with two species and others with single each were recorded. Aspergillus was dominant among fungi with 4 species followed by Penicillium with two. Cyanobacteria one of the dominant group of algae, inhabiting all kinds of water (effluents), recorded 20 species. Oscillatoria with 11 species was the dominant genus followed by Phormidium (5), Plectonema (2), Aphanocapsa and Chlorogloea with single species each. Higher amounts of phosphates and nitrates, with sufficient amount of oxidizable organic matter, limited dissolved oxygen content and slightly alkaline pH were probably the factors favouring the growth of microbes especially cyanobacteria. The utilization of dominant species of cyanobacteria to monitor pollution in dairy effluent has also been discussed.

4 tables, 49 ref

019433   Bhellum B L;Rani Magotra (Botany Dep, Govt. College for Women, Parade, Jammu-180 001) : Additions to the flora of Jammu and Kashmir state. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 243-5.

The paper gives toxonomic accounts of Ceropegia bulbosa Roxb. (Asclepiadaceae R. Br.), Merremia hederacea (Burrn. f.) Hallier f. and Ipomoea triloba (Convolvulaceae Juss.). All the species along with their floral parts have been illustrated and recorded for the first time for Jammu and Kashmir state.

3 illus, 12 ref

019432   Bandyopadhyay B;Santra S C (Environmental Sci Dep, Univ of Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal-741 235, ) : In situ 4C DNA content study of twenty-nine hybrid varieties of some selected taxa of tribe phaseolae (Fabaceae). Legume Res 2007, 30(4), 235-42.

Quantitative study of in situ estimation of 4C nuclear DNA amount and chromosome counts were carried out on different genera, species and varieties of economically important legumes ( twenty nine hybrid varieties of Glycine max, Erythrina variegata, Lablab purpureus, Vigna unguiculata, Canavalia ensiformis, Canavalia gladiata and Cajanus cajan) of the tribe Phaseolae (family Fabaceae). The 4C nuclear DNA amount was estimated through in situ Feulgen microspectrophotometry expressed in arbitrary units of relative absorbance. Somatic chromosome number is studied which is constant at intra-specific level, but not at interªspecific level. There were significant variations in 4C DNA amount at the inter-specific but not at the intra-specific level. To considering nuclear DNA amount in relation to total chromosome length, the diversity in DNA amount was also associated with structural differences of chromosomes among the different species. The variation in 4C DNA content was non significant at the varietal level, though in most of the cases the variations were significant at species and generic level.

2 illus, 3 tables, 41 ref

019431   Bagde U S;Bilolikar B V;Pandit R S (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Vidyanagari, Mumbai (M.S.)) : Electron Microscopic study of protoplast formation in Bacillus thuringiensis. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 133-7.

Protoplast formation is a novel method for genetic improvement which was used for improvement of Bacillus thuringiensis for better control of fish pathogens. Different characteristics of procured Bacillus thuringiensis were studied in the lab. Bacillus thuringiensis 3a3h was found to be sensitive to kanamycin at concentration of 0.3% and resistant to chloramphenicol at the concentration of 0.025%, while Bacillus thuringiensis H12 was sensitive to chloramphenicol at concentration of 0.25% and resistant to kanamycin at concentration of 0.3%. These markers were used for the selection of fusants. When lysozyme was added in actively growing culture in media, Bacillus thuringiensis gave response to lysozyme action and showed protoplast formation. Protoplasts of B. thuringiensis 3a3b cells were obtained by lysozyme treatment of 7 mg/ml, while the protoplasts of B. thuringiensis H12 were formed by lysozyme treatment of 12 mg/ml.

7 illus, 18 ref

019430   Anil Kumar V B;Jeejamol C;Murugan K;Kishor Mohan T C (Plant Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Lab. Botany Dep, University College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034) : Biochemical analysis of the nutraceutical characteristics in barbados cherry (Malpighia glabra L.). J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 237-42.

Many edible, wild plants contribute significantly to the nutraceutical industry, which has a wide scope, encompassing natural pharmaceuticals and bioactive compounds with health promoting, disease preventing or medicinal properties. The regular consumption of fruits and vegetables has been strongly linked to a reduction in the risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and age- related disorders caused by free radicals and reactive oxygen species. In the present study the three lobed soft, juicy, thin-skinned small delicious fruits of Barbados cherry were analysed for their proximate composition including mineral constituents, antinutritional and antioxidant characteristics at various stages of fruit maturation. The proximate analysis of ripe fruits revealed moisture (85%), total ash content (8.3 mg/g), crude fiber (12 mg/g), total sugar (2.135 mg/g), crude protein (0.84 mg/g), and fat content (0.14 mg/g FW). Mature fruits were found to be rich source of essential minerals. In addition to the major nutrients fruits contained some antinutritional characteristics such as tannins, (17.9 μg/g tissue), phytic acid (4.3 μg and 2.5 μg/g) and total phenol content (18.1 mg/g FW). The value of antinutritional factors was below the standard value of World Health Organization (WHO). Appreciable quantities of β-carotene (0.1 μg/g), ascorbic acid (3411.75 mg/g) and tocopherol (8.9 μg/g tissue) were observed in mature fruits. Considerable variation was noticed in the level of β-carotene; ascorbic acid and tocopherol content at different phases of fruit maturation. The high antioxidant potential (2913 μmol) strongly correlates with the high ascorbic acid and total phenol content during the stages of fruit development. Subsequently, the fruits were further analysed for fractionating the polyphenolics by RP-HPLC. A positive correlation was noticed between phenolic acids and total phenol content suggesting their role as precursors of many of the secondary metabolites of the plant. The presence of the phenolic acids such as caffeic, coumaric, chlorogenic, ferulic, gallic and vanillic acid increases further the antioxidant potential. The biochemical and analytical data clearly suggest that the Barbados cherry have enormous potential to meet the nutritional and antioxidant need in the diets of human populations as an excellent nutraceutical food.

4 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

019429   Ajeet Kumar;Ajay;Singh P R (Botany Dep, B.D. Evening College, Patna-800 001) : Change in oil content of oil yielding seeds due to storage fungi. J phytol Res 2007, 20(2), 331-2.

Maximum loss of oil was caused by A. flavus followed by the remaining fungi behaving nearly alike except F. moniliforme which caused maximum loss of oil of sunflower seed. Lipolytic enzyme activity was maximum in A. flavus followed in succession in F. moniliforme, A. niger and A. tenuissima.

1 table, 9 ref

019428   Aghihotri D K;Chauhan S V S (Dept of Botany, School of Life Sciences, Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University, Khandarij Campus, Agra, Uttar Pradesh) : Degeneration of tapetal cell mitochondria associated with pollen sterility in ethrel induced male sterile Lycopersicon esculentum mill. Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 123-8.

Foliar applications of 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3% (v/v) aqueous solutions of ethrel (2-chloro ethyl phosphonic acid) induced 95-100% pollen sterility lasting 20-25 days in Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. Comparative Sight microscope (LM) and transmission electron microscopic (TEM) studies revealed that pollen abortion in sterile anthers was associated with the degeneration of mitochondria in tapetal cells, which remained intact during major course of development and degenerated only after degeneration of sterile pollen grains. Meiosis in pollen mother cells, in the anthers of treated plants was normal and the microspores released from the common callose wall developed into sterile pollen grains of abnormal shape and size. These were also highly vacuolated and their cell organelles were also in degenerated form. Exine was slightly thin but differentiated into foot layer, bacuiae and tectum.

14 illus, 15 ref

019427   Afreen B;Sharma R;Naqvi S Q A (Botany Dep, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh (U.P.)) : Effect of plant extracts and chemicals against the formation of necrotic lesions on Petunia hybrida L., by toamato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). Natn J Life Sci 2007, 4(2), 165-7.

The aqueous plant extracts from Plumbago rosea, Basella alba, Cocos nucifera, Nerium odoratum and Limonia acidlssima were found to inhibit the formation of necrotic lesions on Petunia hybrida which are caused by Tomato Spotted Wilt Virus (TSWV). Some chemicals like Ammonium ferrous sulphate, Copper sulphate and Zinc sulphate at 5% concentration also effectively suppressed the formation of necrotic lesions and increased the yield. Among the six plant extracts P.rosea registered only 3.0% infection with 94.44 percent inhibition over control and the chemical spray of copper sulphate registered the lowest infection of 17% and 78.44 % inhibition over control.

2 tables, 3 ref

018370   Vishwakarma K;Lata N;Dubey V (Bot Dep, C.M.D. (P.G.) Coll, Gurughasi Das Univ, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh) : Indigenous folk medicines for skin care: an ethnobotanical study. Flora Fauna 2007, 13(1), 43-6.

Initial exploratory attempt was made to study the prevalent medicinal flora of Bilaspur region of Chhattisgarh, which is a potentially rich heritage of floristic elements of medicinal and therapeutical values. The present study deals with 30 Angiospermic plants belonging to 29 genera and 24 families of Bilaspur district for curing various n disorders among different ethnic societies. The exhaustive information has been gathered by field survey and supplemented by screening of literature.

1 table, 10 ref

018369   Verma N;Khosa R L;Pathak A K (Dep of Pharmaceutical Technology, Meerut Institute of Engineering and Technology, Meerut-250 002) : Hepatoprotective activity of fruits of Ficus bengalensis. Indian J nat Prod 2007, 23(2), 18-21.

Hepatoprotective activity of the ethanolic extract of the fruits of ficus bengalensis was conducted on carbon tetrachloride treated rats. The extract registered a significant fall in teh levels of serum glutamyl oxalacetic acid transaminase (SGOT), serum glutamyl pyruvate transaminase (SGPT), alkaline phosphatase (ALKP), serum bilurubin (SBLN) and liver inflammation supported by histopathological studies on liver, thus exhibiting a significant hepatoprotective activity.

1 table, 11 ref

018368   Ur Rehman E (Health and Science Dep, Staffordshire University, UK, Email: ejazm78@yahoo.com) : Valuable medicinal plants of village Barali kass and its adjacent areas, Kotli Azad Kashmir Pakistan. J Phytopharmacotherapy nat Prod 2008, 1(1), 73-8.

Ethno botanical Exploration carried out during 2001-2002 in Village Barali Kass and its allied areas, District Kotli Azad Kashmir Pakistan revealed that 47 species were uses as folk medicine for curing of several diseases. The data was collected from the local peoples including reliable hakims (local doctors), physians and old villagers. Plant species with their botanical names, Local Names, Status and fold medicinal uses have been collected and enlisted.

14 ref

018367   Upaganlawar A B;Tenpe C R;Yeole P G (NO, Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Borgaon (Meghe) - Wardha-442 001) : Analgesic activity of leaves of oroxylum indicum. Indian J nat Prod 2007, 23(2), 30-2.

Study was designed to investigate the analgesic activity of Oroxylum indicum Vent. leaf extracts using acetic acid induced writhing test and hot plate method. Aqueous extract of Oroxylum indicum leaves showed significant (p<60>0.01) reduction in the number of writhing induced by acetic acid and increased reaction time in hot plate test.

2 tables, 9 ref

018366   Upadhyay S K;Badyal J (Horticult Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062) : Cultivating nectarine a promising fruit in Himachal Pradeh. Indian Hort 2007, 52(5), 24-6.

Nectarine has a great potential for diversification in Himachal Pradesh. Recently, a number of plantations are coming up at a faster pace. The Department of Horticulture, CSKHPKV, Palampur, has established a demonstration block of nectarines, which have started giving fruits. Keeping in view its performance, adaptability, early-bearing, good returns as well as consumers' appeal, farmers have started planting nectarine orchards and visualize its future as potential fruit crop for midhills of the state and other similar areas of the country. First good crop of nectarine is obtained 4-5 years after planting, which is earlier than other temperate fruits. The nectarines can be successfully grown in Kullu, Mandi, Solan, Sirmour, Kangra, Chamba and Shimla districts.

3 illus, 1 table

018365   Suri K A;Gupta B D;Satti N K;Sharma V K;Qazi G N (N.P.C. Division, Regional Research Laboratory, , Canal Road, Nammu) : Standardisation for quality assurance of medicinal plants/herbal drugs how should we do it. J Phytopharmacotherapy nat Prod 2008, 1(1), 1-11.

3 ref

018364   Srivastava S;Singh N K;Srivastava R R (Bot Dep, M.L.K. Coll, Balrampur-271 201) : Effect of pumpkin mosaic virus on nitrogen and protein metabolism of cucurbita pepo (L.). Biomed 2007, 18(1-2), 107-10.

Effect of three stains of Pumpkin Mosaic Virus (PMV) infection on the nitrogen and protein metabolism of Cucurbita pepo leaves and stems indicated that the levels of total nitrogen and total protein were higher in comparison to healthy plants. The nitrogen content in leaf, increase in the samples infected with PMC followed by PMM and PMVB. But in stem the highest increase was found in plant infected with PMVB followed by PMM and PMC. The highest protein content was observed in infected samples (leaf and stems) with PMVB strain of virus followed by PMM and PMC.

4 tables, 9 ref