014219   Goutam Bala;Mukherjee A (Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104) : Useful plants of wetlands in Nadia district, West Bengal. Geobios 2007, 34(4), 253-6.

From the wetlands of Nadia district as many as 42 species of angiosperms belonging to 26 families and 2 species of pteridophytes were observed which are locally used for various purposes. Of these plants, 30 species have excellent medicinal properties.

1 table, 9 ref

014218   Gauba N;Mahmooduzzafar;Siddiqi T O;Umar S; Iqbal M (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi-110 062, Email: tariq117@rediffmail.com) : Leaf biochemistry of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill. at different stages of plant development as affected by mercury treatment. J envir Biol 2007, 28(2), 303-6.

Effect of mercury (Hg) on the biochemical parameters of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill leaf was studied. Application of mercuric chloride in varying concentrations (0.5, 1.0, 1.5 and 2.0 mM HgCl₂ kg^-1 sand) caused significant reduction that went up to 89% and 72% chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b contents respectively (at flowering stage), 69% in carotenoid content, 64% in total soluble protein content and 91% in nitrate reductase activity (all at post-flowering stage). The amounts of nitrate and proline increased maximally (151% and 143% respectively) at the flowering stage, whereas total soluble sugar enhanced by 57% at the post-flowering stage. Changes observed in most of the parameters, were concentration dependent. Such studies seem to be able to discover suitable bioindicators of heavy metal pollution.

8 tables, 28 ref

014217   Garud N;Garud A;Tonpay S D;Kaushik A;Tomar V (School of Studies in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Anti-microbial activity of methanolic extract of Calotropis gigantea. Indian J appl Life Sci 2007, 3(2), 36-7.

Due to extensive industrialization and urbanization, the whole world is concentrating on ever rising chemical and microbial pollution. Various herbal crude drugs are available for the treatment of many dreaded diseases but there use has yet to be confirmed. Attempt of formulating anti-microbial preparation from plant Calotropis gigantea belonging to family Asclepiadacea , was done. The literature reveals the fact that this plant was widely used for the treatment of various diseases like fever , rheumatism, asthama, elephantiasis, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. According to ayurveda the whole plant is a good tonic, expectorant, depurative and anthelmentic. The leaves are useful in the treatment of paralysis, arthralegia, sotomachic, anthelmentic and tonic. Few properties of this plant have been studied.

1 table, 5 ref

014216   Galav P K;Nag A;Katewa S S (Laboratory of Ethnobotany and Agrostology, Botany Dep, College of Scie, M L Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur-313 001) : Traditional herbal veterinary medicines from Mount abu, Rajasthan. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 120-3.

Aravalli hills of southern Rajasthan especially Mount Abu and its surrounding hills are very rich in bioresources. In this regioin the locals have evolved folk herbal remedies since generations to maintain their livestock population healthy. Of these 44 formulations used to treat 20 diseases of domestic animals from 33 plants species belonging to 26 families are described.

7 ref

014215   Dwivedi S N;Dwivedi S;Patel P C (Botany Dep, Janata PG College, A.P.S. Univ, Rewa-486 002, Email: drsndwivedi@yahoo.co.in) : Antimicrobial herbs used among the tribal and rural communities. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 111-15.

Madhya Pradesh is known to barbour a rich wealth of biodiversity. Medicinal activity of a number of plants has already been reported but a good number of antimicrobial plants still used in traditional system of medicine are yet to be explored. A survey was carried out by the authors to collect the information on antimicrobial herbs of the slate. The present article also focuses on folk uses of these plants to cure human disorders and diseases.

31 ref

014214   Dutt H C;Shashi Kant (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: duttharish@rediffmail.com) : Aeginetia indica Roxb.: A new non-photosynthetic angiosperm for Jammu and Kashmir flora. J Bombay Nat Hist Soc 2007, 104(1), 116-7.

^ssc1 illus, 1 ref

014213   Dinesh Jadhav (NO, , Kanchan 72. Rajiv (Kasturba) Nagar, Ratlam-457 001) : Unreported ethnomedicinal uses of Bombax ceiba (bombacaceae) among the bhil tribes of Rathlam district Madhya Pradesh. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 142-3.

Information on ethnomedicinal uses of Bombax ceiba L. (Bombacaceae) gathered from the Bhil tribes of Ratlam district (M.P.) has been dealt with in this communication. These uses are interesting and new to ethnomedicobotany.

8 ref

014212   Deokota R;Chhetri R B (Natural Sciences Dep, Kathmandu Univ, P.O. Box NO: 6250, K T M Dhulikhel, Kavre, Nepal, Email: rajeevchettri@hotmail.com) : Ethnobotanical study in Sunsari district of eastern Nepal. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 67-72.

Attempt has been made to compile the ethnobotanical utilization of 50 species of plants belonging to 45 genera under 37 families in. day-to-day life of different ethnic groups such as Tharu, Satar, Sunuwar, Mooshar, Rai, Magar and Newar in Sunsan district of the eastern region of Nepal. The traditional knowledge regarding the use of these plants is widely applied by these ethnic groups. The diverse ethnic communities together with the luxurious floristic diversity offer ample scope for ethnobotanical study in this district. The indigenous groups depend either directly or indirectly on the products' of the forests for their livelihood and have, down the ages, preserved the knowledge about the traditional and cultural uses of plant.

21 ref

014211   Dash P K;Dhal N K;Rout C (NO, Institute of Mineral and Materials, Technology (Foremerly known as RRL), Bhubaneshwar-751 013, Email: dhalnk@yahoo.com) : Phyto-therapeutic uses of mangroves for primary healthcare among the local inhabitants of Bhitarkanika wildlife sanctuary, Orissa, India. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 49-54.

Mangroves have manifold benevolent attributes with significant role in the economic status of the local people. Apart from socio-economic and commercial applications, mangroves are also used as folk medicines throughout the world. The present paper emphasizes on therapeutic uses of 28 mangal species belonging to 27 genera and 19 families used in the treatment of 22 different diseases by the local inhabitants in and around Bhitarakanika Wildlife Sanctuary. The local names, habit, locality, mode of administration have been enlisted. The information gathered here would be used as primary clue for discovery of herbal drugs from plants.

2 tables, 22 ref

014210   Das S;Gupta Bhattacharya S (Palynology and Environmental Biology Div, Botany Dep, Bose Institute, 93/1 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata-700 009) : Airborne culturable fungal flora on an agricultural farm in West Bengal and its relationship with meteorological factors. Indian J Aerobiol 2007, 20(1-2), 1-8.

Aerobiological investigation was carried out at an agricultural farm in West Bengal to monitor the quantitative and qualitative variation of airborne culturable fungal spores with respect to various meteorological factors. Air sampling was conducted for two consecutive years (Nov, 2002-Oct, 2004) at weekly intervals, using Andersen two-stage air sampler. The total culturable mold count attained peaks during winter (732.21-806.32 CFUm^-3) and monsoon (584.54-599.84 CFUm^-3), while lower levels were detected in summer. Among the 17 mold types recorded in entire Study period, Cladosporium spp. (19.25%), Aspergillus niger (14.64%), Aspergillusflavus (12.72%), Aspergillus nidulans (6.71%), Curvularia spp. (6.81%) and Aspergillus fumigatus (6.04%) were the predominant ones. The highest CPU counts of Cladosporium spp. and Fusarium spp. were recorded in summer whereas Trichoderma spp. and Penicillium spp. peaked in winter and Curvularia spp., Rhizopus spp. and Syncephalastrum spp. in monsoon. A.flavus, A. japonicus and Trichoderma spp. showed significant differences between the weekly mold count data for the two sampling years. The total mold count exhibited significant negative correlations with temperature. The mold calendar, constructed in present study can be used as potential tool to forecast the occurrence of allergenic molds in similar occupational environments.

3 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

014209   Das A K;Dutta B K (Botany Dep, S. S. College, Hailakandi-788 151) : Cycas pectinata - a wonderful native plant remedy for piles and asthma in southern Assam, N.E. India. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 140-1.

Market survey of medicin plants was carried out in different parts of south Assam including N.C. hills and Pachert of Tripura. Female and male cones of Cycas pectinata are sold in the market by local herbalists, which are used to cure piles and asthma.

1 ref

014208   Cruz L D (Botany Dep, St Xavier's College, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad-380 009) : Ethnobotanical studies on Leguminous plants of dediapada forests. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 73-7.

Detailed study of the ethnomedicinal wisdom of the Vasava tribe led to the documentation of over 250 plant species of ethnomedicinal significance belonging to over 75 families, of which 23 Leguminous species are being presented in this paper. Alter comparative literature analysis, Some medicinal uses, which are quite interesting and additions to the existing knowledge base were found. These plant species need special attention on account of their restricted availability, their threatened status and ethnobotanical significance.

2 tables, 12 ref

014207   Choubey V B;Khare P K (Botany Dep, Dr H.S. Gour Univ, Sagar (Madhya pradesh)) : Preliminary survey of poisonous plants in Sagar district of central India. Indian For 2007, 133(12), 1715-21.

^ssc1 table, 16 ref

014206   Chawla G;Kaushal K K;Srivastava A N;Singh K P (Nematology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: gchawla@iari.res.in) : Cordyline terminalis-a monocot plant-host of Meloidogyne incognita (kofoid & white) chitwood. J ornamental Hort 2007, 10(1), 69.

3 ref

014205   Chauhan A;Vijai Kumar (Horticulture Dep, Chaudhary Shivnath Singh Shandilya College, Machhra, district: Meerut-250 106) : Effect of graded levels of nitrigen and VAM on growth and flowering calendula (Calendula officinalis Linn.). J ornamental Hort 2007, 10(1), 61-3.

Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of graded of nitrogen levels and VAM inoculation on growth and yield of calendula (Calendula officinalis Linn.). Treatments comprised of four levels of nitrogen (0,50,75 and 100 kg/ha) and three levels of VAM (0,3 and 5 g/plant) which were tested in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Results revealed that the higher level of nitrogen (100 kg/ ha) or VAM (5 g/plant) caused significant influences in increasing most of the growth, flowering and yield parameters studied. Interaction of higher levels of nitrogen and VAM (100 kg N + 5 g VAM) significantly increased width of leaf, flower diameter and number of branches and flowers per plant.

2 tables, 7 ref

014204   Chaturvedi P;Marumo S S (Biological Sciences Dep, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana) : Anti-inflammatory responses of leaves of Ziziphus mucronata. J appl Zool Res 2007, 18(2), 156-61.

Study aims at the preliminary testing of the anti-inflammatory properties of fresh leaf paste prepara Ion in albino rats having induced edema in the paw with carageenan. Emulgel paste was used as reference drug. The treatment was given for five days. The paste was able to reduce the edema by more than 50% on the first day of topical application. On day 5, the leaf paste reduced the edema by 87% while emulgel reduced it by 90%. Lipid peroxidation during inflammation was also reduced on day 5. Superoxide dismutase and nitric oxide also achieved their normal levels on day 5.

4 illus, 7 ref

014203   Bindu S;Chitra C R;Anil Kumar C (NO, Tropical Botany Garden and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala) : Polyembryony in Rauvolfia serpentian (L.) Benth ex Kurtz. Indian For 2007, 133(12), 1711-14.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

014202   Bhogaonkar P Y;Kadam V N (Botany Dep, Govt. Vidarbha Institute of Science and Humanities, Amravati-444 604) : Herbal antidotes used for snakebite by Banjara people of Umarkhed region in Maharashtra, India. Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 78-81.

Banjara settlements called Tanda arc always on the fringe of forests outside the villages, where incidents of snakebite and scorpion sling are very frequent. Sixteen species were found to be used against snakebite by the Banjara people. Mode of usage varies from external application to oral administration sometimes supported by certain rituals. The paper discusses the mode of such treatments.

10 ref

014201   Bhogaonkar P Y;Ahmad S A (Botany Dep, Govt Vidarbha Institute of Science and Humanities, Amravati-444 604, Email: sameera_1176@rediffmail.com) : Less known folklore Unani uses of plants in Amravati district, Maharashtra (India). Ethnobotany 2007, 19(1-2), 124-7.

Survey for Unani folklore medicine was carried out during 2000-2002 Fifteen local hakims in Amravati district having a good background of traditional hakimi in their family were interviewed. Detailed observations were made, when these hakims were treating the patients. Medicinal uses and their modes of use were recorded along with vernacular names. As a result about 80 plants used by local Hakims for treating about 84 ailments were recorded. On comparison with available literature, it was found that 20 species are less known drug plants The present paper discusses medicinal properties of these 20 plant species.

7 ref

014200   Bhandari S;Harsh N S K;Singh P (Forest Pathology Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun (Uttarakhand)) : First report of Meloidogyne arenaria on Coleus forskohlii in India. Indian For 2007, 133(12), 1709-10.

^ssc1 illus, 3 ref

014199   Bhalerao S S;Shaikh T H;Deshpande V D (Zoology Dep, Bahirji Smarak College, Basmatnagar-431 215) : On a new Indian forest gall midge species (cecidomyiidae : diptera). Geobios 2007, 34(4), 287-9.

New species Lasioptera garugai infesting Garuga pinnata Roxb. (Family : Burseraceae), a forest tree from Bhokar, Kinwat, Sitakhandi forest, Dist. Nanded is described here.

2 ref

014198   Bhale U N;Kamble S S (Botany Dep, Arts, Science and Commerce College, Naldurg, Dist. Osmanabad (M.S.)) : Biochemical changes observed in host by benomyl resistance of Fusarium oxysporum F. spinaciae causing leaf spot spinach (Spinacea oleracea L.). Bionano Front 2007, 1(1), 60-3.

Biochemical changes in the mycelial mat of Fusarium oxysporum f. spinaciae and resistant to benomyl were compared phosphorus, reducing sugar total sugar, DNA, RNA, and phenols were found to be more in resistant isolate than in sensitive one. But nitrogen, calcium, crude protein and non reducing sugar were found to be more in sensitive isolate than in resistant one. Infection of spinach roots by both resistant and sensitive isolates reduced the contents of all biochemical compounds, due to utilization by fungal pathogen for their growth and metabolism. Due to fungal infection wilt is caused and deteriorates the nutrients present in the plants.

3 tables, 19 ref

014197   Bhakat R K;Pandit P K;Maity P P (Forest Corporation South Div, , Kharagpur (West Bengal)) : Conservation of local ethno-medicinal trees of midnapore district, West Bengal through a secred grove. Indian For 2007, 133(9), 1167-72.

Deals with an account of the role played by Chilkigarh sacred grove in West Bengal in the conservation of regional ethnomedicinal trees. The study records 30 species of locally useful tree species of which 4 are rare in the wild. The paper calls for continued protection of the grove and also recommends to incorporate this traditional way of nature conservation into management plans.

1 table, 18 ref

014196   Barman D;Basak J;Rai B;Devadas R;Nagrare V; Medhi R P (NO, National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong-737 106, Email: dbarman@indiatimes.com) : Performance of Cymbidium hybrids in mid hill situation of Sikkim. J ornamental Hort 2007, 10(1), 30-3.

Thirty one Cymbidium hybrids were evaluated for morphological and floral characters in the mid hill situation of Sikkim. Among the hybrids, the most promising were Takaragaike with a maximum plant height of 124.9 cm and Red Star with the longest spike of 117.3 cm. Maximum number of florets was recorded in the hybrid Yankalilla (24) and the biggest size of flowers in Stanley Fouraker White Magic and Fantasia Deserio Dulmar. On an overall evaluation, Yankalilla, San Francisco Mona Lisa, Nonina Paleface, Takaragaike, Stanley Fouraker White Magic and Fantasia Deserio Dulmar were identified as the most commercially promising Cymbidium hybrids suitable for cultivation in Sikkim and the North-Eastern Himalayas.

2 tables, 9 ref

014195   Aswath C;Manjunath Rao T;Ramachandran N (Division of Ornamental Crop, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Hessaraghatta Lake Post, Bangalore-560 089, Email: aswath@iihr.ernet.in) : Promising crossandra (Crossandra undulaefolia salisb.) F1 hybrids IIHR 2004-09 and IIHR 2004-11. J ornamental Hort 2007, 10(1), 64-6.

Crossandra (Crossandra undulaefolia Salisb.) is one of the important loose flowers grown in South India. The flowers are commonly used for hair adornment and religious purposess. The common cultivar under cultivation is the one producing orange red coloured flowers. No commercial cultivars have been released so far, however some varieties have been released by private breeders. Hybridization between the Local cultivars from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Pudichery and improved cultivars of Lakshmi and Delhi Crossandra yielded many F₁ hybrids with varying morphological characters. Two F₁ hybrids IIHR 2004-09 and IIHR 2004-11 were selected among the large number of hybrids for their unique larger size, which is 67 and 69 % higher than the Local cultivars, respectively. These hybrids may be recommended for commercial cultivation of loose flowers and potted plants. Since the flowers are novel in colour and size they may fetch fancy price in the market.

1 illus, 1 table, 3 ref

014194   Ahmad A;Sharma N (PG Dep Botany, College of Commerce, Patna-800 020) : Chlorophyll pigments in the foliage of some plants under coal smoke stressed condition around barauni thermal power station. Geobios 2007, 34(4), 276-8.

Deals with the estimation of chlorophyll pigments under coal smoke stressed condition due to Barauni thermal power station in the foliage of some economically important trees around it.

1 table, 14 ref

014193   Ahlawat D S;Singh H;Singh D (Entomology Dep, CCHAUS, Hisar) : Impact of cultural practices on the management of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) in rapeseed-mustard. Eco Res J Biosci 2007, 6(1-2), 85-9.

Mustard aphid population per plant was more in twice irrigated crops irrespective of varieties of both the years. Collectively varieties and date of sowings had maximum impact (35.77 and 25.90%) on build up aphid population followed by varieties, date of sowings and irrigation levels (33.58 and 27.61%) and least impact was observed of date of sowings and irrigation levels (7.90 and 15.40%), respectively on the population of mustard aphid. The aphid population was significantly higher (27.47 and 28.48 aphids/plant) irrespective of varieties on late sown crop at one and two levels of irrigation for both the years, respectively. Mean aphid, population was significantly more (20.62 aphids/plant) on the late sown crops on with one irrigation level irrespective of varieties.

3 tables, 8 ref

014192   Ahire P P;Kadam V B (P.G. Botany Dep and Research Centre, K.T.H.M. College, Nashik-422 002, Email: prajwalkadam@rediffmail.com) : Aeromycological (deuterocycetes) studies at Nashik district of Maharashtra. Bionano Front 2008, 1(2), 127-8.

The district of Nashik is situated in North Maharashtra nearly 200 km of Mumbai on National Highway NO.3. Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum Linn.) is one of the most important cash crop of this district. There are many co-operative sugarcane factories in the district and the sugarcane is mainly used for manufacturing of sugar and ethanol. The annual rainfall (175 + 20 Cms.) and temperature (27 + 03 Oc)of the region are favorable for growing the sugarcane crop. The sugarcane crop is mainly affected by more than twenty different fungal diseases.

5 ref

013261   Yusuf M;Wahab M A;Yousuf M D;Chowdhury J U; Begum J (BCSIR Laboratories, , Chittagong 4220) : Documentation of medicinal plants and their use in Ghagra of Rangamati district, Bangladesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 98-103.

Chakma is the largest tribal community in the Ghagra area of Rangamati district, Bangladesh. Majority of them still depend on medicinal plants for the treatment of different ailments. A study carried out in this area to document their knowledge about medicinal plants, revealed 53 species under 38 families used for the treatment of 43 diseases. Botanical name, tribal name, parts used and doses are mentioned.

11 ref

013260   Xavier T F;Senthilkumar S (Microbiology Dep, PGP College of Arts and Science, Namakkal-637 206) : Management and conservation of medicinal orchids of eastern ghats of Tamil Nadu, South India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 417-22.

Eastern Ghats of Tamil Nadu were potential site of orchids having luxuriant and gregarious orchid vegetation in different areas. However, the present position of these orchids is that many of them are on the edges of extinction due to over exploitation by human beings for their own benefit. The disappearance of orchids is also due to lack of proper documentation of economic potential and biological functioning of orchids, besides unawareness among local inhabitants. In the present study, authors have discussed medicinal orchids of Eastern Ghats and their conservation prospectives.

1 tables, 29 ref

013259   Wedikar M S;Kadam V B;Kamble S S (Botany Dep, Vinayakrao Patil College, Vaijapur (Maharashtra)) : Use of agrochemicals in the management of charcoal of pigeonpea caused by Macrophomina phaseolina resistant to carbendazim. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 159-62.

There was large variation in the MIC of carbendazim among the Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid isolates both on agar plate and pigeonpea plant, MIC on agar plate ranged from 80 to 140 mg/ml, while it was 65 to 127 mg/ml on pigeonpea plant. EMS-MP1 was highly resistant with resistant factor 5. Use of carbendazim in mixture with agrochemicals such as Thiram, Mancozeb, Captafol, Endosulphan, Pyribon, 2-4 D, Stomp, Aureofungin, Ampicillin, Mercuric chloride, Cobalt chloride, Manganese, Coblat, Boron and Molybdenum inhibited growth of Macrophomina phaseolina in a both on agar plate and pigeonpea plant suggesting reducing in resistance.

5 tables, 13 ref

013258   Vij S P;Verma J (Botany Dep, Orchid Laboratory, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: spvij@rediffmail.com ) : Peristylus constrictus (Lindl.) Lindl. (Orchidaceae)-a new record for Himachal Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 447-50.

Peristylus constrictus (Lindl.) Lindl. is reported for the first time from Himachal Pradesh, extending thereby its North Western limit of distribution in the Himalaya beyond Garhwal region. Description of the species along with illustrations is provided.

1 illus, 9 ref

013257   Venkateshwarlu M (Botany Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Efficient protocol for the in vitro production of Zizyphus mauritiana L.. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 115-117.

Conventional way of in vitro production is applicable to Zizyphus mauritiana species with 65% nodal cuttings treated with auxins. When rapid and large scale cloning of selected germplasm is considered, the method found unsuitable as it impose extensive damage to valuable elite stock. Earlier studies conducted on individual crop seeds show that higher concentrations of effluent 25%, 50%, 75% drastically inhibited seed germination of seedling growth (Singh et al., 1985) whereas lower concentrations increased seed germination of rice, sorghum, cow pea of soybean (Pandey of Soni, 1994). Other drawbacks such as time consuming, slow and seasonal influences on rooting, etc. are also limit extensive application of this technique. Micropropagation technology has proved its potential to rapid multiplication of several woody perennials (Bajaj, 1986; Tiwari, 1992; Harry and Thorpe, 1994). Selection and rapid multiplication of 'elite' tree using micropropagation can produce stands which produce higher yields than are available. Further selected varieties/strains which produce uniform, heavy crops of large sized seeds with maximum oil and alkaloid can be cloned to increase yield which will drastically rewrite economics of Zizyphus mauritiana cultivation.

1 table, 11 ref

013256   Velmurugan M;Davamani V;Anand M;Vijyaraghavan V (Enviromental Sciences Dep, Horticultural College and Research Institut, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-3(Tamilnadu)) : Effect of organic manures and biofertilizers on rhizomatous crops. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 29-32.

Continuous use of inorganic fertilizers has resulted in ecological imbalance with consequent ill effects to the soil. The plant nutrients supplied through organic manures and biofertilizers are harmless to the soil system and also help in sustained fertility of the soil. The essential elements are locked up in the organic manures are slowly mineralised and made available to the crops. Bio-manures are capable of supplying nutrients from soil to plant system by their biological activity and maintain long term soil fertility.

2 tables, 29 ref

013255   Tyagi S;Goyal A;Tyagi Y (Botany Dep, M.M.H. College, Ghaziabad U.P) : Flora of order chroococcales of district Muzaffarnagar (U.P.), India. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 371-2.

A survey of the blue-green algal population from rice field of district Muzaffarnagar was made. A total of 58 species of order Chroococcales belonging to 15 genera of 2 families were identified. The members of this order find very dominantly. The soil pH ranging between 6.7 to 7.9. The average annual rain fall is 38 to 45 m.m. The soil of the cultivated area in district Muzaffarnagar is classed as loam or clay.

1 table, 5 ref

013254   Tyagi A K;Sandeep Kumar;Vikki Kumar;Khan A (Horticulture Dep, C.S.S.S. (P.G.) College, Machhra, Meerut-250 106) : Response of growth regulators on the growth and yield of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.]. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 411-12.

Field experiment was conducted in the experimental farm, Department of Horticulture, C.S.S.S. (P. G.) College, Machhra, Meerut to study the response of IAA, NAA and GA₃ each at 30, 60 and 90 ppm concentration on growth and yield of okra during the year 2007. The spraying of growth regulators was done at 30 days after sowing. The results revealed that GA₃ at 90 ppm concentration proved to be the best for all parameters of growth and yield in okra followed by IAA.

2 tables, 4 ref

013253   Tripathi S P M;Tiwari J P (Postgraduate Studies and Research In Botany Dep, M.L.K. (P.G.) College, Balrampur-271 201) : Algal flora in the UP stream of Kuwano river at Balrampur (U.P.), India. Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 369-70.

The paper deals with the algal flora on the upstream water of river Kuwano at Balrampur (U. P.) The data revealed that four major groups of algae i.e. Chlorophyceae, Bacillariophyceae, Cyanophyceae and Euglenophyceae are present in the upstream of Kuwano river.

2 tables, 14 ref

013252   Tomar A (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut-250 001, Email: amittomar1982@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of salicylic acid,l-arginine monohydrochloride, gibberellic acid, maleic hydrazide and indole acetic acid on seed germination and seedling growth of Albizzia lebbeck (L.). Pl Archs 2008, 8(1), 495-6.

The effect of SA, L. Arginine, GA₃, MH, and LAA in different concentrations and taking water as control was observed on seed germination and seedling growth of Albizzia lebbeck on the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th day after sowing. On the 5* day the germination was found to be constant. (Indole acetic acid, salicylic acid, gibberellic acid, and L-arginine were found to be promotory for germination and growth parameters). Indole acetic acid, salicylic acid, gibberellic acid and L-arginine were found to be promotory at lower concentrations. Inhibition in the development of lateral roots was observed by gibberellic acid treatment.

7 ref

013251   Tilak K V B R;Saxena A K (Botany Dep, Osmania University, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: tilakkvbr@yahoo.com) : Response of onion (Allium cepa L.) to inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense. J Ecofriendly Agric 2008, 3(1), 16-18.

Laboratory and field studies were conducted to study the response of onion (Allium cepa L.) var. Pusa Red to inoculation with Azospirillum brasilense. Extensive colonization by the organism occurred when plants were grown in field under unsterile conditions. Seedlings of eight weeks when inoculated with A. brasilense increased the mean bulb yield for three years. The mean increase in bulb yield due to inoculation over unionculated control was also seen with increasing levels of fertilizer nitrogen (urea). Inoculation alone constituted for increased nitrogen uptake of onion with varying fertilizer N application under sandy loam soil conditions (pH: 7.5). The effects of inoculation were more prominent at lower levels of nitrogen than at higher levels. The population of Azospirillum under field conditions was also more with Azospirillum inoculation in the presence of fertilizer N than the corresponding controls.

2 tables, 12 ref

013250   Susila Rani S R M;Balakrishnan N P (Botanical Survey of India, , Southern Circle, T.N.A.U Campus, Lawley Road, Coimbatore-641 003) : Diversity in the inflorescences and bracts of the genus Acalypha L. (Euphorbiaceae) in India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 91-7.

Inflorescences and female bracts are very important in the identification of the species of the genus Acalypha L. The diversity in their characters is explained with illustrations and a key based on inflorescences and bracts, suitable for easy identification of the ten species in India.

1 illus

013249   Subramanian M S;Sathishkumar N H (Botany Dep, Kongunadu Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Coimbatore-29) : Comparative pharmaco-chemical characterisation of two species of Andrographis Wall. (an anti-leprosy drug). J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 25-32.

Deals with comparative pharmaco-chemical characterisation of the two species with the parameters like organoleptic, microscopic and fluorescence evaluation, estimation of biochemical and geochemical and determination of active principle an dphysical constants. Since, the above two species are used in the preparation of the anti-leprosy drug, their chemical identity is compared with that of standard allopathic anti-leprosy agents like clofazimine, dapsone and rifampicin by chemical reaction (IP method) to assess their activity equivalence.

4 tables, 25 ref

013248   Srivastave R C;Srivastava C (Botanical Survey of India, , Allahabad-211 002) : Diversity and economic importance of wetland flora of Gorakhpur district (U.P.). J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 70-7.

Describes diversity of Angiosperms in wetlands of Gorakhpur district. Botanical names, local names, family, flowering & fruiting, period and uses (wherever known) of 99 species are provide.

7 ref

013247   Sinha B K;Shukla B K;Sharma P (Botanical Survey of India, , Eastern Circle, Shillong-793 003) : Diversity and distribution of the pteridophytic flora of Pachmarhi biosphere reserve, Madhya Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 40-69.

Pteridophytic flora of Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve is unique and richest in the central India in respect of density and diversity. Deals with the taxonomic account of 99 species belonging to 46 genera and 32 families of pteridophytes. Out of these, three species are endemic viz., Selaginella jainii Dixit, Isoetis pachananii Pant & Srivastava & I. Mahadevensis Srivastava, Pant & Shukla, and 21 species are rare due to their restricted distribution. Keys to the genera and species, along with correct nomenclature, brief description, ecology and distributional notes, have been provided for their easy identification. Strategies and measures on the conservation of rare species have also been proposed.

2 tables, 22 ref

013246   Sinha B K;Shukla B K (NO, , Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002) : Synoptic flora of Khargaon district, Madhya Pradesh-1. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 487-535.

Deals with the flora of Khargaon district, Madhya Pradesh. Part one includes the pteridophytes and angiosperms from Ranunculaceae to Mimosaceae. Economic potentiality of flora has also been discussed, besides vegetation types and abiotic components of the area.

2 tables, ref

013245   Singh V P;Srivastava R C (Botanical Survey of India, , Allahabad) : Census of the genus Schoenoplectus (H.G.L. Reichbach) Palla (Cyperaecae) in Uttar Pradesh. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 5-12.

Provides a detailed taxonomic account of 10 species of the genus Schoenoplectus (H.G.L. Reichbach) Palla in Uttar Pradesh. Key to the species is also provided.

6 ref

013244   Singh V P;Srivastava R C (Botanical Survey of India, Allahabad, , ) : Census of the genus Juncellus C.B. Clarke (cyperaceae) in Uttar Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(1), 1-4.

Provides a detailed taxonomic account of 5 species of the genus Juncellus Clarke in Uttar Pradesh. Key to the species is also provided.

5 ref

013243   Singh S;Choudhery H J (Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Howrah-03) : Floristic diversity of Betla National Park, Falamau district, Jharkhand-an overview. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 351-60.

Betla National Park is a protected area of Palamau district in Jharkhand State. The National Park is rich in floristic diversity with more than 600 species. The unique geographical position, topography and climate of this region represent all major forest types. The dominant floristic components include species of Crotalaria, Ficus, Cassia, Acacia, Desmo-dium, Cyperus etc. The important medicinal plants include Andrographis paniculata, Asparagus racemosus, Phyllanthus emblica, Hemidesmus indicus etc to name a few. The other important plant species with lesser known ethnomedicinal uses in this area are also dealt with.

2 tables, 14 ref

013242   Singh S;Agrawala D K;Chowdhery H J (NO, , Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Howrah-3) : Further contribution to the flora of Buxa National Park, Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 380-6.

Deals with 80 species belonging to 62 genera representing 26 families of angiosperm plants and 8 species of pteridophytes for the first time from the Buxa National Park in Jalpaiguri district, West Bengal. Of these, Psychotria nigra (Gaertn.) Alston, Zanthoxylum tetraspermum Wight & Arn, Piper argyrophyllum Miq. and Juncellus laeuigatus (L.) Cl. are being recorded for the first time from the State of West Bengal.

21 ref

013241   Singh P N;Gaikwad S B;Singh S K (Mycology and Plant Pathology Group, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune-411 004, Email: sksingh@gripune.org) : Two interesting and undescribed species of Septoria from India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 543-6.

Deals with two undescribed taxa of Septoria, viz. Septoria indica sp. nov. and S. asteracearum sp. nov., causing distinct leaf spots on Geranium sp. (Geraniaceae) and Tagetes sp. (Asteraceae), respectively.

9 illus, 12 ref

013240   Singh A K;Srivastava M;Srivastava S (Botany Dep, Udai Pratap College, Varanasi-221 002) : Brachiaria miliformis (J. Presl ex c. Presl) a. Chase (Poaceae)-a new record for Uttar Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2007, 31(2), 283-5.

Brachiaria miliiformis (J. Presl ex C. Presl) A. Chase (Poaceae) is reported for the first time from Uttar Pradesh. Detailed description is provided with phenology, distribution and an illustration.

1 illus, 6 ref