017393   Sinha R;Lakra V (Dirrector of Extansion Education, Birsa Agricultural Univ, Kanke, Ranchi-834 006) : Medicinal use of plants for the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery by the tribals of Jharkhand Orissa and West Bengal. J Dairying Fd Home Sci 2007, 26(3-4), 194-201.

An ethnobotanical survey was carried out among the different ethnic groups of tribals in Jharkhand, Orissa and West Bengal. Altogether 37 plant species have been reported to be used by the tribals of this region since long time for remedy of diarrhoea and dysentery. The study highlights the fact that tribals are gifted with a profound knowledge and understanding of the local ecology.

6 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

017392   Singh S P;Mishra A N;Gupta P K;Singh V R (Central Institute Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, Resource Centre Pantnagar, Dairy Farm, Nagla, Udham Singhnagar-263 149, Email: spsinghom@yahoo.co.in) : Genetic divergence in German chamomile [Chamomilla recutita (L.) Rauch]. J Spices aromatic Crop 2007, 16(2), 125-8.

Forty genotypes of chamomile (Chatuomilla recutita) were evaluated for 12 quantitative traits at Nagla (Uttarakhand) and could be grouped into seven clusters depending upon their genetic distance on the basis of Mahalanobis D² analysis. Maximum number of genotypes was grouped into cluster I (13) followed by cluster VII (8). Intra-cluster distances ranged from 1.78 (cluster IV) to 2.20 (cluster I). Inter-cluster distance was maximum between cluster II and V (6.91). The results indicated the diversity among the genotypes and sufficient scope for varietal improvement through hybridization. A breeding plan can be adopted from the results of the study to enhance flower yield, flower diameter, disc floret periphery, disc floret height and number of flowers plant^-1 through hybrid breeding programme.

3 tables, 7 ref

017391   Singh R K;Anamika Singh;Sureja A K (College of Horticulture and Forestry, Central Agricultural University, Pasighat-791 102, Email: ranjay_jbp@rediffmail.com) : Sustainable use of ethnobotanical resources. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 521-30.

Demonstrates the significance of ethnobotanical resources used for ensuring the food and nutritional security conserved by the tribal women of Chattisgarh state. The study was conducted among the tribal women of Halba, Mandiya, Bhatra and Muriya communities of Jagdalpur-Bastar district, Chhatisgarh. Data pertaining to study were recorded by using the participatory approach. Study revealed that there are more than 20 major ethnobotanical resources prevalent in the tribal community, which is being consumed in the forms of leaves, bulbs, plants and fruits. Few of the ethnic vegetables, like charoti, koliari, siliari, chench, bodi and jheera are mostly available in the rainy season and vary in its consumption percentage on account of extent of availability. Few of these ethnic plants are wild and few are domesticated in the kitchen garden for its conservation and sustainable use. Wild indigenous mushroom species namely, banse, jam and mane chhati are the nutritious source of foods and are available in the month of July-August. These ethnobotanical resources provide nutritional security as well as play a multifunctional role in curing several diseases. These varieties are economically sustainable on account of stable marketing. However, there was variation (15-90) in the consumption of these ethnic plants depending upon availability and duration. No cost nature, stable source of income, compatibility to culture and local availability are the factors responsible for continuous consumption of the identified ethnic vegetables. Different socio-cultural, spiritual and high ethical values attached with these ethnobotanical resources play a pivotal role in its sustainable use and conservation.

017390   Singh R;Goyal S C (Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory. Botany and Plant Physiocology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: goyal_sc@yahoo.co.in) : Micropropagation of Salvadora oleoides decne from nodal explants of mature tree. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 155-9.

Method of obtaining plants from nodal explains of Salvadora oleoides Decne (Jhal), an under-exploited tree of medicinal value has been developed. Nodal explants grown on MS medium supplemented with BAP (2.0 mg/1) and NAA (0.1 mg/l) produced maximum number of shoots (8-18) per node. Shoots (4.0 cm or longer) developed in vitro were rooted on MS medium containing IBA (3.0 mg/l). The regenerated plantlets have been acclimatized and transferred to soil for normal growth under field conditions with 70-80% success. Continuous trials using explants from mature trees throughout the year showed that the period between August and October was the best season for explant source for rapid and mass multiplication of axillary buds.

1 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

017389   Singh M;Ganesha Rao R S;Ramesh S (Central Institute Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, Resource Centre Allalasandra, GKVK Post, Bangalore-560 065, Email: cimapfsbangalore@vsnl.net) : Influence of nitrogen and nitrogen carrier on herbage oil yield and nitrogen uptake of patchouli [Pogostemon cablin (Blanco) Benth.] in semi arid tropical condition. J Spices aromatic Crop 2007, 16(2), 106-10.

Field experiment was conducted at Bangalore (Karnataka) in a semi-arid tropical climate of South India to study the influence of two nitrogen levels (100 and 200 kg N ha^-1) and three nitrogen carriers (prilled urea, ammonium sulphate and dicyandiamide (DCD)-coated urea) on herbage, oil yield, nitrogen uptake and oil quality of patchouli [Pogostcmon cablin (Blanco.) Benth.] grown on red sandy loam soil. Nitrogen @ 200 kg ha^-1 and DCD-coated urea produced maximum herbage, oil yield, nitrogen uptake and benefit : cost ratio. The oil content varied from 2.48% to 2.60% and was not influenced by nitrogen level and carrier.

5 tables, 11 ref

017388   Sengupta S;Ghosh S N;Das A K (Mycology and Plant Pathology Research Laboratory, P.G. Department of B, Presidency College, Kolkata-700073) : Antibacterial properties of some medicinal plants. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 261-3.

Antibacterial properties of aqueous extracts of different parts of one pteridophyte (leaves and young shoot tips of Ampelopteris palustris Wall and six angiospermic plants. (Bacopa monnieri Pennel, Boerhaavia repens L.; leaves of Coriandrum sativum L. Momordica charantia L; fruits of Capsicum annuum L and leaves and flowers of Holarrhena antidysenterica Wall.) were tested against five bacterial strains (Bacillus cereus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae) by both disc diffusion assay technique and colorimetric method. All the plants tested in this screening programme were found to have antibacterial activities against the test bacteria Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis, where as the test bacterium Klebsiella pneumoniae was found to be resistant to all the plant extracts.

19 ref

017387   Savithramma N;Fareeda G;Madhavi V;Murthy S D S (Botany and Biochemistry Dep, S.V. Univ, Tirupati-517 502, Email: drnsavithri@yahoo.com) : Effect of Ca<. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(2), 95-8.

Three species of green leafy vegetables (GLVs) were selected and treated with different concentrations of CaCl₂.50 mM CaCl₂-treated plant species maintained higher levels of calcium (Ca²⁺), calmodulin (CaM) and chlorophyll (Chl) contents in their leaves. Maximum levels of photochemical activities were observed with the plants of Amaranthus followed by Rurmex and Spinacea, treated with 50 mM concentration of CaCI₂. The thick and dark green leaves indicate that the 50 mM may be optimum CaCl₂- concentration for the selected GLVs. The results indicate that the amended CaCl₂ may have influenced the whole chain electron transport, photosystein II and I (PSII and PSI) by maintaining higher levels of Ca²⁺ and CaM in the leaves of selected GLVs.

6 tables, 21 ref

017386   Sarkar J;Saha J;Panja B N;Das A (Plant Physiology and Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252) : Evalution of Citrus species and their relatives of tolerance to bacterial canker disease and prediction of cankar incidence based on leaf morphological characters. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 175-81.

Fourteen Citrus germplasms and their two relatives viz. Poncirus trifoliata and Atlantia monophylla were screenced against citrus canker disease caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. citri pathotype A. Results showed that Pummelo and Atlantia were immune; Darjeeling mandarin, Nagpur mandarin and the wild mandarin were highly tolerant; Gandharaj lemon and Khasi mandarin were moderately tolerant; Sweet orange, Rangpur lime, Assam lemon, grape fruit, Kagzi lime, Rough lemon and Sour orange were susceptible; Trifoliate orange and Pati nimbu were highly susceptible to disease. Variations of morphological parameters like lesion relation with per cent disease incidence (PDI) were also studied. Lesion sizes of the susceptible and highly susceptible genotypes were found larger than the tolerant types. Stomatal frequencies were estimated in the lower range for the immune genotype Atlantia, highly tolerant and moderately tolerant Mandarin orange ecotypes, susceptible genotypes of Sweet orange, Sour orange and Trifoliate orange. Stomatal frequencies were observed in the higher range for moderately tolerant Gandharaj lemon, susceptible Rough lemon, Assam lemon, Grapefruit, Kagzi lime and highly susceptible Pati nimbu. The immune, tolerant and moderately tolerant genotypes had smaller Stomatal apertures (3.21-6.56 (μm²) than that of the susceptible and highly susceptible genotypes (6.84-9.91 μm²). Maximum Stomatal opening was found in the susceptible genotypes Sweet orange followed by Kagzi lime, Sour orange, Pati nimbu and also in the moderately tolerant Gandharaj lemon. Lowest Stomatal opening was obtained in the immune species Atlantia. The lesion size and the Stomatal aperture were found highly and positively correlated with the per cent disease index. But Stomatal frequency (X₂) and stomatal aperture (X₃) were identified as critical parameters through step down multiple regression analysis for the prediction of disease incidence. Proposed canker disease incidence prediction model was Y (PDI) = 53.198 - 0.020X₂** + 6.842X₃**

4 tables, 17 ref

017385   Roy S G;Chakraborty S;Mukherjee S K (Microbiology Dep, University of Kalyani, Kalyani-741 235) : Biological control of Phytophthora spp. with a novel indigenous Pseudomonas isolate. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 117-21.

Phytophthora, the oomycetous stramenopile protist, is one of the most destructive of plant pathogens, which abounds in tropics causing losses amounting to billions of dollars in S.E Asia. A cause for concern is that almost a third of the species has been reported from India alone. Control strategies are presently dependent on chemicals but are increasingly failing to control the threat. Biological control methods though tried extensively are being met with variable success. Control with Trichoderma species though albeit successful, warrants intensive ecological investigation as it has been known to induce oospore in Phytophthora even when there is no physical contact between them. An additional constraint in the use of biocontrol agents is that they have to be region specific or alternatively should be able to adapt to the other ecological niche's (which is rare) where they are to be used. In the Indian context a successful biocontrol agent against multiple species of Phytophthora is not known till date. Presents data regarding the in-vitro ability of a novel indigenous Pseudomonas aeruginosa strain having antagonistic activity against P.nicotianae, P.capsici, P.colocasiae and P.melonis for the first time in India and possibly globally.

1 illus, 3 tables

017384   Rai M;Mandal S C;Acharya K (Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology, Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: krish_paper@yahoo.cpm) : Free radical scavenging and nitric oxide synthase activation properties of Fistulina hepatica (Hunds) fr.. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 213-17.

Cellular damage caused by reactive oxygen species has been implicated in several diseases and hence antioxidants have significant importance in human health. In vitro evaluation of antioxidant activities of Fistulina hepatica (Hunds) Fr. showed significant inhibition of lipid peroxidation, potent hydroxyl and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-Picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical scavenging activity when compared with standard drug. IC₅₀ values of crude, boiled and ethanolic extracts of F. hepatica represented 299.2 ± 26.4, 292.83 ± 28.19 and 83.25 ± 10.16 μg/ml respectively in case of hydroxyl radical scavenging activity, 120.04 ± 33.85, 118.36 ± 33.23 and 122.65 ± 36.02 μg/ml respectively in DPPH radical scavenging activity and 489.47 ± 20.96, 270.08 ± 53.24 and 154.87 ± 29.31 μg/ml respectively in case of lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, crude, boiled and ethanolic extracts also increased significantly nitric oxide production, one of the important multifunctional molecules that mediates a number of diverse physiological functions (42.98 ± 16.66, 83.51 ± 5.09, 205 ± 39.13 pmol/mg dry wt/h respectively) over the control. Although all the three extracts showed antioxidant activity and NOS activation properties, the ethanolic extract was the most effective when compared with crude and boiled extracts. The present results revealed that F. hepatica has potent therapeutic use.

2 illus, 1 table, 27 ref

017383   Rai M;Ghosh S;Acharya K (Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, 35, Ballygange Circular Road, Kolkata-700 019) : Nutrional parameters of Oudemansiella mucida. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 113-16.

Mushrooms are a high valued source of nutrition and mineral constituents which are of paramount importance in the present age. Here different nutritional parameters i.e. protein, carbohydrate, fat, amino acid and crude fiber content of Oudemansiella mucida (Schrd.) Hoehn. were studied. Results showed that this mushroom has significant amount of carbohydrate, protein, free amino acids and crude fiber whereas low in the amount of fat signifies its importance as diet for the sufferers of diabetes, obesity, atherosclerosis and high blood pressure etc.

2 illus, 25 ref

017382   Rahman M A;Uddin S B;Wilcock C C (Botany Dep, University of Chittagong, Chittagong 4331, Bangladesh, Email: TTTTatiquerahman125@hotmail.com) : Medicinal plants used by Chakma tribe in Hill Tracts districts of Bangladesh. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 508-17.

Ethnobotanical survey was carried out on the utilization of medicinal plants by Chakma tribe living in the remote hilly forest areas of Hill Tracts districts of Bangladesh by interviewing traditional herbalists, called Baiddaya, and various elderly men and women. Indigenous knowledge of herbal medicine remains an integral part of the healthy system among chakmas in the Hill Tracts area. 198 plant species with their local (Chakma) names were recorded for their uses for curing at least 78 ailments. These species, belonging to 74 families, are listed in alphabetical order, each with local names, methods of preparation, route of administration and uses.

017381   Rahman A (Botany Dep, R D & DJ Coll, Munger-811 201) : Phyto sociology analysis of waste land weed in relation to Cassia sophera. J Ecotoxic envir Monit 2007, 17(3), 269-73.

Phytosociology of Cassisa sophera L. has been recorded from Munger, Bihar and eight weed species were recorded from each population. Although some weed species growing with this weed were common in different populations, but their distribution frequencies varied according to their association. C. sophera had 100% frequency of distribution while other weed species had different values. Such variation in association of the weed species might be attributed due to the weed-weed -competition. Variation -in Raunkiaer's frequency classes indicated the distribution of weed species in the population appeared to be normal.

2 tables, 11 ref

017380   Purkayasthal J;Dutta M;Nath S C (Medicinal Aromatic and Economic Plants Div, Regional Research Laboratory, Jorhat-785 006, Email: scnath2004@yahoo.co.in) : Ethnomedicinal plants from Dibru-Saikhowa biosphere reserve, Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 477-80.

An account on medicinal usage of 61 plant species traditionally used as folk medicine to treat different ailments by the inhabitants of Dibru-Saikhowa biosphere reserve in Northeast India has been reported. For each plant species, local names, parts used, purpose of use, processing and mode of administrations are indicated.

017379   Prakasa Rao E V S;Puttanna K ;Ganesha Rao R S;Ramesh S (Central Institute Medicinal & Aromatic Plants, Resourse Centre, Allalasandra, Bangalore-560 065, Email: cimapfsbangalore@vsnl.net ) : Nitrogen and potassium nutrition of french basil (Ocimum basilicum Linn.). J Spices aromatic Crop 2007, 16(2), 99-105.

Studies were undertaken on red sandy loam soil (Kandiustalf) in a semi-arid tropical climate at Bangalore (Karnataka) to find out the effect of fertilizer application in influencing oil production, quality and soil fertility in French basil (Ocimum basilicum). The study showed that application of nitrogen (up to 100 kg ha^-1) increased herb and essential oil yields in the main crop, first ratoon and second crop while potassium application (up to 80 kg ha^-1) increased the yields in the second ratoon and second crop suggesting that soil potassium depletion occurred with time. Nitrogen application increased methyl chavicol (by 4.1%) and decreased linalool (by 14.2%) contents in basil oil. Yield increases were accompanied by higher removal of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium from soil (by 247%, 23% and 94%, respectively) by the crop and lower amounts of exchangeable potassium (by 37.8 %) in soil. Due to the depletion of soil potassium, interactions between nitrogen and potassium were significant in the second crop of basil. Application of 100 kg nitrogen ha^-1 and 80 kg potassium ha^-1 gave optimum yield and quality of oil.

es, 9 ref

017378   Panja B N;Mandal D;Misra D;Saha J (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur-741 252) : Diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in the rhizosphere of banana genotypes. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 54-7.

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) do not have host specificity but have preferential association with some plants and even with the genotypes of a plant. An experiment was conducted to see whether the banana genotypes have any differential susceptibility to AMF root colonization and / or exert any influence on the quantitative and qualitative distribution of native AMF in their rhizospheres. A total of thirty three banana genotypes belonged to five genomic groups (AAA, AAB, ABB, AABB and AAAB) were taken into consideration. Banana genotypes showed differential AMF root colonization intensity, total number of propagules in the rhizosphere and species diversity. Root colonization intensity of genotypes varied from 10% to more than 92% but the majority of the genotypes had more than 50%. The number of AMF propagules in the rhizospheres ranged from 1000-2000 per 100 g dry soil. On the basis of spore morphology fifteen types of AMF spores were isolated from the rhizosphere of banana genotypes. Spore types viz., olivaceous brown 100-120μ, dark brown 80-90 μ, light brown 75-90 μ and golden brown, oval 87 μ x 75 μ were present consistently in the rhizosphere of all banana genotypes in large frequencies. The spores that were recovered from rhizospheres with characteristic attachment were identified and belonged to three genera viz., Glomus, Acaulospora and Gigaspora. Frequency, species richness and diversity were more in the genus, Glomus than others. There were five Glomus spp (G. geosporum, G. aggregatum, G. australis, G. fasciculatum and Glomus sp.), one Acaulospora (A. scrobiculata) and one Gigaspora sp. Results indicated that the banana genotypes had host specific influence on the selection of specific and compatible AM fungal partner for efficient symbiotic association.

3 tables, 3 ref

017377   Pandi Kumar P;Ayyanar M;Ignacimuthu S (NO, Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, Chennai-600 034, Email: eri_lc@hotmail.com) : Medicinal plants used by Malasar tribes of Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(4), 579-82.

India is known for its rich flora and fauna, diverse climatic zones and wealth of living ethnomedicinal tradition. The paper enumerates medicinal plants used by Malasar tribes of Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. The traditional uses of 51 medicinal plants belonging to 34 families are presented with botanical name, family, local name, parts used, method of preparation and ethnomedicinal uses.

017376   Pandel P C;Tiwari L;Pande H C (Botany Dep, Kumaon University, SSJ Campus, Almora-263 601, Email: ltherbal@rediffmail.com) : Ethnoveterinary plants of Uttaranchal - a review. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 444-58.

Reveals that the people of the Uttaranchal state use 364 plants species in ethnoveterinary practices. Bhotiyas, Boxas, Tharus, Jaunsaris and Rhajis are the tribal groups inhabiting in Uttaranchal. Analysis of data indicates that information on 163 plants is significant as it provides some new information of the ethnoveterinary uses. The study is expected to provide basic data for further studies aimed at conservation of traditional medicine and economic welfare of rural people at the study area.

017375   Panda A;Misra M K (Ecology & Floristics Lab, Botany Dep, , Berhampur University) : Traditional methods of mollusc shell collection for lime preparation in East coast of India. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(4), 549-58.

For lime preparation, mollusc shells are traditionally collected from the sea and estuaries. The main objective of the study was to analyse technically how mollusc shells are collected from the coastal areas of Ganjam district, Orissa. In the study, five sites of Ganjam coast, viz. Badapur, Sonapur, Gopalpur, Haripur and Palur, from where mollusc shell collection was carried out by the local Nolia or Bauri community were studied. Four types of methods, viz. hoeing, netting, sweeping and digging, were used to collect the shell from the estuary, sea, creek and Chilika lagoon, respectively. Four main types of shell that were used in the industries for lime preparation, viz. Anadara granosa (Khola), Meritrix meritrix (Gondhi), Meritrix casta. (Pati) and Ceritidea cingulata (Genda) were collected from different sites. During the study year, collection of shells from Badapur, Sonapur, Gopalpur, Haripur and Palur were 366.7, 194.1, 1435.8, 158.9 and 1676.4 Mega gm (Mg) respectively. Total energy expenditure through human labour and material varied from 18.96 to 67.8 GJ in five sites, out of which more than 80% was contributed by human energy.

017374   Mukhopadhyay R;Reddy P S;Pallela R;Chakra Reddy N;Venkateswara Rao J;Hash C T;Kavi Kishor P B (Genetics Dep, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: pbkavi@yahoo.com) : Differential responses of proline, ion accumulation and antioxidative enzyme activities in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.] lines differing in salt sensitivity. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 185-92.

Ten-day-old seedlings of pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Ur.] mapping populations differing in their salinity tolerance levels were exposed to 0 and 150 mM NaCl concentrations for short durations of time (0 to 144 h) to assess the pattern of accumulation of proline, glutathione, Na⁺, K⁺, Ca⁺ and Cl^- contents and their antioxidative enzyme activities. Salt-tolerant lines accumulated more proline and K??+ than the susceptible ones pointing their accumulation as a possible mechanism of salt tolerance. Specific activities of CAT, SOD and GR were higher in tolerant compared to the sensitive lines under salt stress conditions. High GST activity was noticed in the moderately tolerant line while the increase was transient (till 48 h) in the tolerant line. Lipid peroxidation as measured by MDA levels remained more or less same in the salt-sensitive line ICMB 90111, while it increased considerably in the tolerant line under salt stress till 96 h. The above comparative studies suggest that salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive lines of pearl millet possess differential oxidative components of both enzymatic and non-enzymatic machinery for scavenging ROS generated during salt stress.

2 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

017373   Maiti P K;Bandyopadhyay B;Ghosh S;Basak S (Microbiology Dep, I.P.G.M.E. & R, Kolkata-700 020) : Road map on the incidence of Sporotrichosis in West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 94-7.

In literature, 3 authentic cases of sporotrichosis were recorded from West Bengal, during 1947 to 1969; and another 28 cases during 1969 to 1982. In the study, 96 clinically and microbiologically confirmed cases were detected at Calcutta School of Tropical Medicine, between 1983-2004. Of these 22 were of fixed cutaneous type and 74 Iymphocutaneous type. The male to female ratio was 52:44; the median age of involvement was 40 years. The commonest (58%) site of involvement was upper extremities. Most (82%) cases were from 4 coastal districts of West Bengal, and majority came from urban areas. Only 21 % of them were agricultural workers. Antecedent pricking or biting injuries were recorded in a good number of cases. The median of the delay of diagnosis was 7 months. Most (93%) cases were successfully treated with oral potassium iodide.

2 tables, 13 ref

017372   Maiti C K;Sen S;Paul A K;Acharya K (Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 019, Email: krish_paper@yahoo.com) : Alternaria alternata causing leaf spot and leaf blight diseases of some cultivated medicinal plants of lower Gangetic plains of West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 132-6.

Disease caused by Alternaria alternata were among the most common diseases of many kinds of plant throughout the world. Medicinal plants were also victim of Alternaria alternata. This pathogen was widely distributed in lower Gangetic plains of West Bengal and mediated leaf spot and leaf blight diseases of many medicinal plants. The pathogen was isolated from the infected lesion and confirmed by pathogenicity test. Disease symptoms of few cultivated medicinal plants were discussed.

1 illus, 16 ref

017371   Lalfakzualal R;Lalramnghingloval H;Kayang H (Forest Ecology, Biodiversity and Environmental Science Dep, Mizoram University, Tanhril, Aizawl-796 001, Email: lalfak@yahoo.com) : Ethnobotanical usages of plants in western Mizoram. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 486-93.

Ethnobotanical survey among the tribals inhabiting western part of Mizoram brought to light a number of wild plant species used as edibles and as herbal medicine. There are 23 plants species, which were common throughout the study area. The tribals utilized 89 plant species for herbal medicine, 44 plant species consumed as wild edible fruits, 33 plant species as wild edible plants, 8 plant species for pig food, 11 plant species for fire wood & for charcoal making and 23 plant species for timber. The paper enumerates and discusses various ethnobotanical aspects of the plants used by the tribals of Mizoram.

017370   Karuppanapandian T;Karuppudurai T;Sinha P B; Kamarul Haniya A;Manoharan K (Plant Sciences Dep, School of Biological Sciences, Madurai Kamraj Univ, Madurai-625 021) : Random amplified polymorphic DNA markers variability and relationships among black gram (Vigna mungo L. hepper) landraces. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(2), 79-85.

Broadening the genetic base of black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) landraces to sustain Improvement requires assessment of genetic diversity available in pulses germplasm. The objective of the present investigation was to analyze the genetic variation, genetic erosion and genetic relationship among 26 black gram laudraces in Tamil Nadu, India, by means of random amplified polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. A total of 174 amplified bands were scored from the 20 KAPD primers, and a mean of 7.1 amplified bands per primer and 81.7% (141 bands) of polymorphic bands were found. The RAPD provides a useful tool for assessing genetic diversity of rare, endemic species and for resolving relationships among the landraces. This distributive pattern of genetic variation of black gram landraces provides important baseline data for conservation and collection strategies for this species. It is suggested that most of the landraces should be sampled in ex-situation protection so as to retain as much genetic diversity as possible.

2 illus, 5 tables, 20 ref

017369   Jain S K;Kapoor S L (NO, , 1A-26, Mall Avenue Colony, Lucknow 226 001) : Divine botany-universal and useful but under explored traditions. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 534-9.

The study of all relationships between man and plant based on faith, belief and tradition concerning gods, goddesses, saints & other such powers can be called Divine botany. There are three aspects; the knowledge and information contained in the ancient religious books and epics of various faiths; the beliefs and practices as presently observed or performed among various ethnic group, and the future prospects and possibility in this area of botany. The paper has a brief account of faith related to plant in epics like Ramayan and Mahabharat, in religious scriptures like Bible and Quran & plants associated with planets, stars, Vastu-shastra, practices relating to plants in worship and decoration of deities, taboos and plants in various ceremonies, festivals and rites from birth to death. It is discussed that such a faith belief and practice have scientific basis and is helpful for good health and preservation of biodiversity. It is also suggested that the subject is not static but due to changes in biodiversity, human attitude to tradition and introduction of many exotics in various parts of the world, there is dynamism in this relationship. The future prospects and immense possibilities of the subject are indicated.

017368   Ignacimuthu S;Emmanuel S (Entomology Research Institute, Loyola College, Chennai-600 034, Email: eri_lc@hotmail.com) : Hepatoprotective activity of Solanum trilobatum L., a medicinal plant. J expl Zool 2007, 10(2), 373-6.

To assess the hepatoprotective effect of S. trilobatum methanol leaf extract against paracetamol-induced hepatotoxicity in animal model. Hepatoprotective activity of methanol extract of Solanum trilobatum leaf was evaluated in an animal model. Hepatotoxicity was induced by paracetamol. Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups. Group I was normal control animals. Group 2 was paracetamol treated (3 g/kg p.o.) animals. Group 3 was paracetamol (3 g/kg p.o.) + sulasodine (50 mg/kg p.o.) treated animals and group 4 was paracetamol (3 g/kg p.o.) + methanol leaf extract (100 mg/kb p.o) treated animals. Four liver marker enzymes were assayed in serum. Levels of marker enzymes such as lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), alaninelransaitiinase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST) and acid phosphatase (ACP) increased significantly in paracetamol treated animals. The methanol leaf extract decreased the levels of these four enzymes significantly while solasodine did not produce any significant effect.

2 tables, 16 ref

017367   Idu M;Chokor J U;Timothy O (Botany Dep, University of Benin, P.M.B. 1154, Soil Science Dep, Benin Univ, Benin City, Nigeria) : Effect of aqueous root extract of Ageratum conyzoides (Asteraceae) on germination, radicle and plumule length, and seedlimg height of Sorghum bicolor (L.) M. Green Fmg 2008, 1(10-11), 97-8.

The allelopathic property of Ageratum conyzoides was investigated. Aqueous root extracts (12, 24, 36 and 48 hrs) of A. conyzoides retarded germination, radicle and plumule as well as seedling height in three (3) cultivars of Soghum bicolor. The 48 hours extract treatments showed the most severe growth suppressive effect and the brown cultivar was more affected by the allelo-factors.

2 tables, 8 ref

017366   Hamayun M (Botany Dep, Government Degree College, Kotha, District Swabi, NWFP, Pakistan, Email: hamayun73@gmail.com ) : Traditional uses of some medicinal plants of Swat Valley, Pakistan. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(4), 636-41.

Ethnobotanical project was carried out in Swat valley in order to explore medicinal plants present in the local markets and their medicinal folk uses in the area. It was found that 51 species of medicinal plants belonging to 32 different families makes their way to the main local markets of Mingora and Madyan. Few of these are also traded to national and international markets. The people of Swat use indigenous medicinal plants for curing different ailments and also sell them in the local market for earning their livelihood. These medicinal plants are sold in the local market in fresh form, as the collectors are poor and needy. Some species are however, cleaned, sun dried and stored in plastic bags. During storage process, a considerable proportion of medicinal plants are lost. The population of medicinal plants has considerably decreased over past 15-20 yrs and the prime reasons are the increased dependency of locals on medicinal plants marketing, lack of job opportunities, non-sustainable harvesting methods like digging of whole plant and increased deforestation.

017365   Garg V K (National, Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 024, Email: vkgarg4@rediffmail.com) : Effect of non symbiotic microbial inoculants on growth yield and quality of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill) grown in sodic soil. J Spices aromatic Crop 2007, 16(2), 93-8.

Response of non-symbiotic microbial inoculants on growth, yield and quality of fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) grown in partially reclaimed sodic soils was studied at Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh). The results revealed that inoculation of phosphate solubilizing bacteria or in combination with Azotobacter chroococcum was superior resulting in 14%-15% increase in seed yield. Application of fertilizers (80 kg ha^-1 N + 25 kg ha^-1 P) with inoculants had an additive effect on plant growth. An increase in availability of soil P (41%-44%) and essential oil content (10%-14%) was also noticed.

es, 17 ref

017364   Deb C R;Temjensangba (Botany Dep, Nagaland Univ, Lumami, Mokokchung-798 601) : Rapid mass multiplication of Cleisostoma racemiferum (Lindl.) Garay: an endangered orchid. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(2), 99-105.

Cleisostoma racemiferum (Lindl.) Garay. is an epiphytic orchid and the species is under threat in its natural habitat. A successful attempt was made for in vitro mass multiplication of this threatened orchid from immature seeds. The protocorm-like bodies (P'LBs) were developed from immature seeds of 16 weeks after pollination on MS medium containing sucrose (3%) (w/v), coconut water (15%) (v/v), α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and N⁶ benzyl adenine (BA) (10 + 8 μM respectively) in combination. For regeneration of plantlets from the PLBs, MS medium was found to be superior over Mitra el al. medium. The PLBs started differentiating into young plantlets within 3-4 weeks on MS medium containing sucrose (3%) (w/v) and coconut water (15%) (v/v). Amongst the different levels of PGRs, the optimum shoot buds formation was registered in plant growth regulator combination of NAA-BA (10 + 8 μM respectively), where as many as 21 shoot buds per cxplant after 3-4 weeks of culture. Auxins used singly failed to support multiple shoot/buds formation unless it is complemented by cytokinins. The incorporation of activated charcoal (AC) to the regeneration medium considerably enhanced the growth and differentiation of the PLBs. The medium enriched with AC (0.01%) (w/v) promoted the repetitive PLBs formation within 2-3 weeks of culture, while in medium containing 0.1% AC, the plantlets were healthy and elongated with broad leaves. The rooted plantlets (size: 3-4 cm with 2-3 roots) were hardened under in vitro condition in MS salt solution (1/10th) with a layer of moss in the culture vial for three months. Thereafter the hardened plant-lets were transferred to the community potting mix and registered <126>95% of survival after two months of transfer.

1 illus, 2 tables, 24 ref

017363   Das P;Khan M A;De B;Samajpati N;Bera S (Palaeobotany and Palynology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkatta-35, Email: berasubir@yahoo.co.in) : Evidence of relationship between Asterina (Asterinaceae) and chonemorpha (Apocynaceae) from the uppar siwalik (kimin formulation) sediments of Arunachal subHimalaya, India. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 225-30.

In situ occurrence of an Ascomycetous epiphyllous fungus Palaeoasterina siwalika Mitra et al., 2002 on a dicotyledonous leaf Chonemorpha miocenica Prasad and Awasthi, 1996 (cf. modern Chonemorpha macrophylla, Apocynaceae) cuticles from the Upper Siwalik sediments (Kimin Formation, Upper Pliocene-Lower Pleistocene) of Arunachal Pradesh is reported. Eastern Himalaya for the first time. The fossil fungal morphotaxon representing both vegetative and reproductive phases shows closer resemblance to the modern foliicolous species of Asterina (Asterinaceae). In situ occurrence of Palaeoasterina on Chonemorpha leaf suggests that this fungus developed possible exoparasitic relationship with the leaves of ancient forest trees growing under a tropical humid climate with high rate of precipitation in the area during Upper Pliocene-Lower Pleistocene time.

10 illus, 40 ref

017362   Chopra J;Narinder Kaur;Gupta A K (Biochemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 001, Email: anilkgupta@satyam.net.in) : Comparative pattern of enzymes of anaerobic metabolism in germinating legume seeds of contrasting desiccation tolerance. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 171-7.

Determined the changes in activities of enzymes related to 'natural anacrobiosis' (anoxia during germination), viz. alcohol dehydrogenase, aldehyde dehydrogenase, malic enzyme, glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase to obtain an integrated interaction of these enzymes in relation to desiccation tolerance in mungbean and soybean genotypes as representatives of starchy and oily seeds, respectively. Both the genotypes of the two crop seeds had different levels of sensitivities to dehydration, i.e. desiccation tolerance. Desiccation tolerance appeared to be related with seed vigour in all the genotypes. The genotype showing higher seedling vigour survived the dehydration caused by desiccation more effectively. Starchy seeds are more desiccation tolerant as compared to oil seeds. In general, activities of all the enzymes were higher during initial hours of germination and were maximum, after 3 h both in starchy and oily seeds confirming the time of 'natural anaerobiosis'. The second peak of high enzyme activities at 18-24 h of imbibition appeared to coincide with the time of loss of desiccation tolerance before the rupture of the seed coat. Varieties of the same species showing more desiccation tolerance had lower levels of enzyme activities indicating that all these enzymes are linked inversely with desiccation tolerance. Increased desiccation sensitivity is associated with the inability to depress the activities of these enzymes caused by desiccation during drying.

7 tables, 27 ref

017361   Chattopadhyay S;Ghosh S N;Das A K;Ghosh S B (Mycology and Plant Pathology Research Laboratory, P.G. Department of, Presidency College, Kolkata-700 073) : Efficacy of culture filtrate of Auricularia polytricha against microbes. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 281-3.

Auricularia polytricha, is an edible and medicinal mushroom. The present investigation deals with this mushroom in the formulation and development of antifungal and antibacterial ciple. Experiments were carried out with chloroform extracts of culture filtrates of mycelial biom-ass of A. polytricha. The potentiality of antifungal and antibacterial activities were observed after one to six weeks of incubation period in liquid culiure media. The culture was again reflooded into fresh media and incubated for one to six weeks to observed the productivity of active principle. The test fungal strains were Acremonium kiliencee. Colletroiricum capsicii, Sclerotium rolfsii. Curvularia lunata. Phyiophlhora parasitica. Penicillum expansum, P. digitatum and Macrophomina phaseolina. The test bacterial strains were Bacillus cereus, B. subtilis, Pseudomonas solanacearun, E. coil and Kleosiella pneumonias. The widely accepted agar cup bioassay technique was followed with purified extract from fungal biomass against ail the aforesaid organisms. The result showed considerable antifungal activities against A. kilience and C. capsicii at the incubation period of four and six weeks respectively. The maximum inhibitory effect was observed against the above fungal strains at the level of three weeks of incubation period after reflooded into fresh media. Antibacterial activities were also observed against B. cereus, B. subtilis and P. soianacearum. The significant results were noted at the level of second week of incubation period after reflooded into fresh media.

2 tables, 6 ref

017360   Chatterjee S;Maiti C K;Sen S;Acharya K (Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Boatny, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Antagonism of fluorescent Pseudomonas WS-1 towards Alternaria alternata. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 231-5.

Alternaria alternata is known to cause many diseases of medicinal plants. A rhizosphere isolate fluorescent Pseudomonas WS-1 successfully inhibited this pathogen in vitro. Microscopic examination after antagonism showed hyphal shriveling, swelling, vaculation, short branching and granulation of cytoplasm resulting in lysis of hyphae. The mechanism of the antifungal activity of the isolate had been mediated via the production of siderophore, volatile substances, HCN, antibiotics, proteases and chitinases.

2 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

017359   Chatterjee C;Rizvi A F;Pratima Sinha;Dube B K (Botany Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007) : Boron stress-induced biochemical changes in callus culture of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) roots. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(2), 117-22.

To find out the effects of boron stress on the growth of callus, the seeds of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) cv. Jyoti after sterilization were transferred to the culture medium without any growth regulator for 20 days. On day 21, explants (root) were transferred to MS medium containing variable levels of boron, viz. 1 and 3.1 mg 1^-1 (deficient), 6.2 mg l¹ (normal or control) and 9 and 12 mg l^-1 (excess), as boric acid and were allowed to grow for 40 days. Observations revealed that the growth of callus was luxuriant and green at normal (6.2 mg l^-1) boron. The deficiency (1 and 3.1 mg l^-1) of boron not only produced necrosis and water soaked type tissue but also reduced the fresh and dry weights of callus. The concentrations of boron, starch and nitrogen and activities of polyphenol oxidase, ribonuclease and acid phosphatase were reduced whereas the concentration of phenols, sugars and activities of starch phosphorylase and peroxidase increased in callus. At levels higher than normal, calli were brown and the growth (fresh and dry weights) was reduced. Total phenols and sugars along with activities of polyphenol oxidase and ribonuclease were stimulated in callus tissues by high boron. High boron also diminished the starch concentration, activities of peroxidase, acid phosphatase and starch phosphorylase.

1 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

017358   Chakrabarti J;Chatterjee N C;Dutta S (Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory (DSA). Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104) : Interactive effect of VAM and Rhizobium on nutrient uptake and growth of Vigna mungo. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 289-91.

Urd bean (Vigna mango) was inoculated with Glomus fascilatum, a VAM fungus and a Rhizobium sp. grown in nutrient deficient sterlized soil. Plants inoculated dually with VAM and Rhizobium recorded to have maximum nutrient uptake (N-P-K), mycorrhizal colonization, number of nodules, root and shoot height, fresh and dry weight as compared to the plants being inoculated with either of the two organisms. The dual inoculation with the sym-bionts, thereby, showed synergistic effect. From the study it can be concluded VA-mycor-rhiza and Rhizobium in combination ought to have an important effect on modulation, nitrogen fixation and phosphorus uptake in legumes.

3 tables, 17 ref

017357   Biswas A;Samajpati N (NO, Rice Researh Station, Chinsurah-712 102) : Cultural and morphological characteristics, anastomosis behaviour and pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia solani isolates and their role in rice based cropping system in West Bengal. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 58-61.

There was no relationship between cultural and morphological characteristics of an isolate with its anastomosis behaviour and/or pathogenicity on rice. However, a high degree of relationship was observed between anastomosis behaviour and pathogenicity on rice. All the eleven rice isolates, irrespective of their geographical location, belonged to AG-1 IA. All other isolates from maize, sugarcane, soybean and mungbean, capable of producing typical sheath blight symptoms on rice, belonged to AG-IIA or AG-1 lB. Potato isolate belonging to AG-3 was non-pathogenic on rice. Due to different anastomosis grouping, sheath blight disease in kharif rice does not carried over to the next potato crop in rabi season and also potato as a previous crop does not favour sheath blight in kharif rice and maize. However, there is every possibility of soybean and mung bean being infected with sheath blight or vice versa due to same AG of R. solani.

17 ref

017356   Begum S S;Gogoi R (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Circle, Shillong-793 003, Email: samimbegum@rediffmail.com) : Herbal recipe prepared during Bohag or Rongali Bihu in Assam. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2007, 6(3), 417-22.

The work relates to the herbal recipe prepared during Bohag or Rongali Bihu in Assam. For the preparation of this recipe, 101 plant species are used. Each species is provided with plant name, family, vernacular name, plant parts used and their other uses.

017355   Badere R S;Koche D K;Pawar S K;Choudhary A D (Botany Dep, RTM Nagpur University Campus, Amravati Road, Nagpur-440 033, Email: rsbadere@rediffmai.com) : Genestein amounts in cotyledons and leaves of Vigna radiata (L.) wilezek cultivars and mutants are correlated with resistance to leaf spot caused by Cercospora canesence. J Pl Biol 2007, 34(3), 139-45.

Vigna spp. produces a phytoalcxin genestein that inhibits germination of fungal spores. Authors hypothesized that genestein content it leaves of mungbean plants could be exploited to select a resistant genotype in breeding programme. Authors first tested the correlation between amount of genestein and resistance in vitro by challenging excised cotyledons of resistant (MI-396 and Pant M-3) and susceptible (TARM-2 and Kopergaon) cultivars with Cercospora canesence cell wall elicitor. The genestein content accumulated rapidly and in higher quantities in resistant cultivars as compared to the susceptible cultivars. Similarly, we were also able to correlate the resistance and genestein content in Vigna radiata in naturally infected field-grown plants. In our next attempt we mutagenised seeds of three cultivars, viz. TARM-1, TARM-2 and TARM-18 of mungbean with either ethyl methanesulphonate or Gamma rays These cultivars are susceptible to leaf spot caused by Cercospora canesence. Authors isolated two mutants each from the mutated population of TARM-1 and TARM-2 in M₂ generation. The genestein amount in the mutants was considerably higher than their paren cultivar. The mutants segregated in the subsequent generations, however, the resistant progenies, had higher amount of genestein than the parent cultivars. Hence, our study suggests the utility of genestein in selection of disease-resistant genotype in the breeding programme.

1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

017354   Ali J;Ali E;Islam N F;Bora K N (Botany Dep, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781 014) : Influence of root systems of Parthenium plant on soil fungi in different localities of Guwahati, Assam. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 40-4.

Study was undertaken to determine the influence of the root systems of Parthenium (Prthenium hysterophorus L.) plant at different stages of the plant growth on soil fungi in different localities viz., Jalukbari and Noonmati area of Guwahati, Assam during the year 2004-2005. Analysis of rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil samples from both the localities revealed comparatively higher fungal populations in rhizosphere soil compared to non-rhizosphere soil. Variations in the number and types of fungal colonical were observed between the soils of the two localities. The physico-chemical properties of the soil from both the localities were analyzed. Higher numbers of fungal colonies (740 nos. of colonies) were isolated from the soil of Noonmati area (sandy-loam soil) than the soil (clay-loam) of Jalukbari area (497 nos. of colonies). In both the soil, the highest total fungal colonies (238 nos. of colonies in Noonmati area and 174 nos. of colonies in Jalukbari area) were recorded when the plant attained flowering stage. Species of Aspergillus were the most dominating fungi amongst the other isolated fungi. Some of the predominantly occurring rhizospheric fungi isolated were - Aspergillus fIavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium oxysporum, F. moniliformae, Penicillium oxalicum and Trichoderma viride. The various physico-chemical properties of the soils such as soil pH, temperature, moisture content, and relative humidity and rainfall were found to play an important role in the distribution of soil fungi in the two types of soil (sandy-loam and clay-loam) in the rhizosphere of Parthenium plant.

1 illus, 4 tables, 18 ref

017353   Ahmad M S (University Botany Dep, T.M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur-812 007) : Effect of aflatoxin B₁ and zearalenone on pigments synthesis in mustard. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(1), 129-31.

In this investigation effects of five different concentrations (viz., 100, 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 mg/1) of aflatoxin B₁ and zearalenone were evaluated against syntheses of defferent pigments (chlorophyll and carotenoids) in the emerging leaves of treated mustard seeds (var. Kranti) during seedling growth. The inhibitory effects of these mycotoxins were observed at all concentrations which were directly correlated with the concentrations of the treated toxins. Maximum inhibitions in synthesis of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, total chlorophyll and carotenoids were 73.9, 46.8, 67.3 and 82.5% in aflatoxin treated seeds whereas 67.02, 40.7, 63.07 and 72.05% inhibitions, respectively, were recorded in zearalenone treated seeds.

2 tables, 11 rer

017352   Acharya R (Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory. Botany, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Estimation of nitric oxide synthase activity during host pathogen interaction in different crop plants. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 297-8.

Nitric oxide produced by nitric oxide synthase has recently been designated as an important molecule of plant defense. In this paper the state of nitric oxide synthase activity in different crop plants during their diseased condition was mentioned. The outcome of the experiment revealed lower nitric oxide synthase activity where the plants are prone to diseases on the other hand, plants having normal growth with restricted symptoms exhibited higher nitric oxide synthase activity when compared to non-diseased plants.

2 tables, 11 ref

017351   A Manojkumar;Hosagoudar V B;G R Achana (NO, Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Palode-695 563, Email: vbhosagoudar@rediffmail.com) : Biochemical studies on acacia melanoxylon infected with meliola melanoxylonis. J mycopathol Res 2007, 45(2), 207-11.

This study deals with the relative biochemical variations in healthy and Meliola melanoxy/onis infected phyllodes of Acacia melanoxylon. The total free amino acids, phenols, ortho-dihydric phenols, carbohydrates, lignins and cellulose were estimated in severely infected and healthy phyllodes of A. melanoxylon by chemical methods. The estimated total free amino acids in healthy and infected phyllodes were 0.14% (1414.0μg/ g) and 0.09% (855.16 μg/g), respectively. A reduction of 0.05% (558.84 μg/g) of total free amino acids was observed in the infected phyllodes. The total phenol content estimated in healthy phyllodes was 9.40% and that of infected phyllodes was 20.61%, showing an increase of 11.21%. The percentage of ortho-dihydric phenols showed an increase from 4.06% in healthy phyllodes to 5.61% in infected ones. Estimated carbohydrate contents in healthy phyllodes and infected phyllodes were 46.3% and 31.6% respectively, with a reduction of 14.7% in infected phyllodes. The lignin content in healthy and infected phyllodes was 44.9% and 69.5%, respectively. Similarly, the cellulose content was 1.86% in healthy phyllodes and 2.82% in infected phyllodes. The fungus, M. me/anoxylonis had 0.91% of total phenol per gram dry weight of its colonies and it is devoid of alkaloids. The relative variation in percentages of metabolites between the infected and healthy phyllodes was correlated with infection of Meliola melanoxylonis on Acacia melanoxylon phyllodes.

4 ref

016408   Yadav R K;Srivastava D K (P.G. Botany Dep, A.B.R.P.G. College, Anapara, Sonebhadra-231 225) : Effect of some antibiotics against Phytophthora parasitica on leaf rot of pan. Mendel int J 2007, 24(3-4), 127-8.

One of the important diseases of pan is leaf rot, caused by Phytophthora parasitica var. piperina. Twenty antibiotics were tested against betel vine Phytophtora whereas only three antibiotics viz. Ofloxacin, Clomiphene and Ofloxacin + Tinidazole were found inhibitory. All the three antibiotics kill the test pathogen completely under both in vitro and invitro conditions at 200 ppm concentration.

2 tables, 6 ref

016407   Yadav A S;Gupta S K (Botany Dep, Government R.R. Autonomous College, Alwar-301 001, Email: atarsingh_1010@rediffmail.com) : Effect of micro-environment and human disturbance on the diversity of herbaceous species in Sariska Tiger Project. Trop Ecol 2007, 48(1), 125-8.

1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

016406   Vyas D;Soni A;Singh P K (Microbial Technology and Plant Pathology Lab, Botany Dep, Dr. H.S. Gour University, Sagar-470 003, Email: dvyas64@yahoo.co.in) : Differential effects of pesticides on occurrence of VAM fungi associated with some leguminous plants. J basic appl Mycol 2007, 6(1-2), 143-50.

Data obtained from the investigation revealed that the concentration lesser than recommended doses of the respective pesticide viz Rogar 0.03 g/m² promote root colonization of V AM fungi much more effectively with Pisum sativum, and same dose of it found to be least favorable for V AM fungi associating with Cicer arietinum. However, on administration same concentration of rogar, shows mycorrhizal association in Glycine max, Cajanas cajan and Arachis hypogea was also observed, though lesser than Pisum sativum yet higher than Cicer arietinum. No changes in trend in results were obtained when plants were treated with 0.02 g/m² concentration of Endocel. However, effect of Bavistin 0.01 g/m² concentration favors the maximum infection with Pisum sativum and m.inimum with Cajanas cajan whereas 0.11 g/m² M-45 found to be suitable for the maximum mycorrhizal colonization with Glycin max roots and minimum with Cajanas cajan. Interestingly recommended concentration Le. 0.06 g/m² for Rogar, 0.04 g/m² for Endocel, 0.02 g/m² for Bavistin and 0.22 g/m² for M-45 and the concentration above that 0.09, 0.06, 0.03, 0.44 g/m² of Rogar, Endocel, Bavistin and M-45, respectively found to be detrimental for the V AM fungi associated with all the test leguminous plants.

4 tables, 17 ref

016405   Vara Prasad Reddy L S S ;Thangavel A;Leela V; Narayana Raju K V S (Veterinary physiology Dep, Madras Veterinary College, Chennai-600 007) : Effect of dietary supplementation of tulasi (Ocimum sanctum)and selenium on lipid peroxidation levels and growth rate in broiler chickens. Tamilnadu J vet Anim Sci 2007, 3(3), 144-9.

In the present study the effect of dietary supplementation of Tulasi (Ocimum sanctum) and selenium on lipid peroxidation, Reduced glulatliione (GSH) levels and growth rate in broiler chickens were assessed. Forty-two broiler chicks divided into six groups of seven each were used for this study. Ocimum sanctum leaf powder (0.25% and 0.5%), organic selenium (0.3 ppm) and their combination were added to the basal diet. Lipid peroxidation and GSH levels in plasma were measured at the end of 3nd and 6th week of age. The growth rate was recorded at weekly intervals. Ocimum sanctum leaf powder (0.5%) and its combination with selenium (0.3 ppm) showed significant decrease in lipid peroxidation levels with concomitant increase in GSH levels in plasma. However, the growth rate of broilers was similar in all groups.

2 illus, 1 table, 13 ref

016404   Tripathi S M;Singh K P (Botany Dep, R.B.S. College, Agra-828 002) : Ethrel induced male sterility in Helianthus annus L.. Mendel int J 2007, 24(3-4), 131-2.

Effect of different concentrations (0.1, 0.2 and 0.3% v/v) of ethrel on plant morphology, pollen fertility and yield component in Helianthus annus L. var. MSFH17 is studiecd. All the treatments with ethrel caused reduction in height and delay in flowering. One or two treatments with 0.1% ethrel induced 98.0 and 99.0% pollen sterility and brought about insignificant reduction in yield in comparison to control.

1 table, 8 ref

016403   Somwanshi S D;Deshpande G D;Apet K T (Plant Pathology Dep, Marathwada Agricultural University, Parbhani-431 402) : Carbon and nitrogen requirement for growth and reproduction of Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.carthami. J basic appl Mycol 2007, 6(1-2), 70-2.

Study was carried out for the effect of carbon and nitrogen sources on the growth of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. carthami. Among the carbon sources studied for maltose ranked first followed by starch with maximum macro-conidia production. Mannitol allowed selective production of micro-conidia only. The best nitrogen source for growth was MgNO₃ followed by KNO₃ and urea.

2 tables, 7 ref

016402   Sinha S B;Sharfuddin M (Botany Dep, R.M.R. Seminary +2, Khazanchi Road, Patna-800 004) : Phenological behaviour of some weeds of wheat crop field. Mendel int J 2007, 24(3-4), 103.

Three weeds namely Eclipta prostrata Linn. Croton bonplandianum Baill and Euphorbia hirta Linn. were studied for phenological behaviour of wheat crop field.

1 table, 7 ref