010195   Chakrabarti S (NO, National Research Centre for Orchids, Pakyong-737 106) : Flower colour in orchids. Sci Cult 2007, 73(9-10), 294-8.

Flower colour is an important factor that adds to the aesthetic appeal of the ornamental plants specially orchids and helps in determining the market price. It is an essential consideration in consumer's preference. Novel colours and patterns in flowers and leaves of cut flowers and potted plants are in great demand by the fashion-led ornamentals industry through out the world. Flower colour is influenced by a combination of factors i.e. the type of pigments present in the flower, the translocation of such pigments from the site of production and the pH of the cell vacuoles. At present flower colour, is the major target in genetic engineering and scientists researching plant pigments are able to change flower colour in orchids. Flower colour also plays a significant rote in orchid's pollination to attract the pollinators.

4 ref

010194   Badgaiya A K;Pandey S K;Bisen A;Soni N (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur) : In vitro plant regeneration from immature embryos of papaya (Carica papaya L.). Int J Trop Agric 2007, 25(3), 475-9.

The present investigations were undertaken to study the in vitro morphogenesis in Carica papaya L. by selecting efficient protocols using various quantities of plant growth regulators for achieving the best in vitro response from immature embryo for callus formation and plant regeneration. Analysis of variance indicated highly significant differences among the c.ulture media for all the invitro morphogenesis phases results revealed that an auxins (NAA and 2,4-D) as well as cytokinins alone is not adequate for inducing somatic embryogenesis in higher frequencies. Growth regulator combination of auxin (2,4-D) and cytokinin (RAP) was most responsible during plant regeneration from immature embryo culture of papaya.

3 tables, 9 ref

009069   Yasodha P;Natarajan N (Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Centre for Plant Protec, T.N.A.U., Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Ovicidal and ovipositional deterrent botanicals against Leucinodes orbonalis Guenee (Pyraustidae; Lepidoptera). Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 25-30.

Laboratory experiments were carried out inorder to test the oviposition deterrency and ovicidal action of certain wild Solanum spp., kernels of Azadirachta indica and dried powder of Acorns calamus against Leucinodes orbonalis females and its eggs. Maximum oviposition deterrency is expressed in the form of minimum oviposition index (OI). At highest concentration of 5 per cent as aqueous extract, NSKE + A. calamus was found to have minimum oviposition index of 0.22, indicating the strong oviposition deterrent effect. Considering wild Solanum spp, S. mauritianum exhibited strong deterrency only at 5 % concentration. Methanol extracts of NSKE + A- calamus as observed in the aqueous extract showed maximum oviposition deterrency with the least 01 (0.14). Among wild Solanum spp., the strong deterrancy was exhibited by 0.2 percent methanol extract of S. viarum and S. lasiocarpum. Hence, organic solvents of various tested botanicals exhibited more deterrency effect than the aqueous extract. The maximum ovicidal action (62.60%) was achieved with NSKE +A. calamus combination while the minimum was by S. trilobatum (25.61%).

3 tables, 14 ref

009068   Yadav A;Paliwal S P (Botany Dep, M.S.D.S. College, Mohommadabad-206 451) : Size correlations between fusiform initial and its derivatives in the stem of Nyctanthes arbor-tristis Linn. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 203-4.

1 illus, 11 ref

009067   Verma V;Kasera P K (Plant Ecology Lab, Botany Dep, Jai Narain Vyas University, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: pkkasera@yahoo.co.in) : Variations in secondary metabolites in some arid zone medicinal plants in relation to season and plant growth. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 203-6.

Attempt has has been made to find out variations in total alkaloids and phenols due to different seasons and plant growth stages in Asparagus racemosus, Boerhavia diffusa and Sida cordifolia. Results revealed that maximum accumulation of alkaloids and phenols occurred in summer season in all the three plant species. Peak concentrations of alkaloids and phenols were observed in flowering stage in all the plants except in A. racemosus that showed maximal accumulation of phenols in the vegetative stage. Interestingly, no alkaloids or phenols accumulated in the seedling stage.

^ssc2 tables, 14 ref

009066   Usha B;Prashanth S R;Parida A (Plant Molecular Biology Lab, M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, Taramani, Chennai-600 013, Email: ajay@mssrf.res.in) : Differential expression of two metallothionein encoding genes during heavy metal stress in the mangrove species, Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh. Curr Sci 2007, 93(9), 1215-19.

3 illus, 21 ref

009065   Singh D K;Singh S K (NO, Botanical Survey of India, CGO Complex, 3rd MSO building, Block F (5th Floor), Salt Lake Sector I, Kolkata-700 064, Email: singh_drdk@rediffmail.com) : Hide and seek of Monosolenium tenerum Griff. (Hepaticae: monosoleniaceae) in Indian bryoflora. Curr Sci 2007, 92(11), 1483-5.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

009064   Sikarwar R L S (NO, Arogyadham, J.R.D. Tata Foundtion for Research in Ayurveda and Yoga Sc, Satna-485 331, Email: relssikarwar@rediffmail.com) : Ex situ conservation of Alectra chitrakutensis (Rau) R. Prasad & R.D. Dixit. Curr Sci 2007, 92(11), 1485-6.

^ssc1 illus, 8 ref

009063   Sharma A;Sharma N L (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of neem leaf litter extract on decomposing potential of certain fungi. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 56-8.

Effect of Neem leaf litter extract on decomposition of wheat straw in vitro by'Aspergillus-nitger, A.flavus, A.terreus and /Tricodermajligrionirn was studied. The maximum decomposition was caused in decreasing sequence by T.lignorum (33.8%) ' A. niger (24.7%), A.terreus (2 .57%) and A.flavus (15.26%). The addition of extract of decomposing neem leaves stimulated the decomposition by A.niger and A.flavus by 12.7% and 13.7% respectively, where as by T.lignorum and A.terreus was inhibited by 4.69% and 4.86% respectively. The decrease in the rate of decomposition by T.lignorum can be attributed to the decrease in the activity of polygalacturonase activity but in case of A.terreus, the decomposition was due to carboxymethylcellulase (CMC). The stimulation of decomposition by A.niger and A.flavus can be attributed to increase in polygalacturonase (PG) activity.

1 table, 23 ref

009062   Shantha T R;Vasanth Kumar K G;Gopakumar K (NO, Regional Research Institute, Ashoka Pillar, Jayanagar, Bangalore-560 011) : Pharmacognosy of tala fruits (Borassus flabellier L.). Aryavaidyan 2007, 20(4), 199-205.

Deals with the phannacognostical studies on the fruits (hyaline edible endosperm) of tala. It includes macro and microscopical studies, maceration, powder study, diagnostic characters, u-v fluorescence studies, physico-chemical studies, and preliminary phytochemical studies. Studies revealed the presence of brown coloured thick walled cells in between the parenchymatous cells, simple rounded starch grains, fixed oil globules and tannin content. These studies help in laying down the phannacopoeial standards and in identifying the drug in powder form or as such with or without the outer brown covering.

1 illus, 5 tables, 15 ref

009061   Satpute R A;Govanakoppa R B (Botany Dep, Government Institute of Science, Aurangabad-431 004) : Bacterial wilt resistance in brinjal. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 66-70.

Major deseases of brinjal commercial cultivation are damping off., Phomopsis, verticillium wilt, fusarium and bacterial wilt. Among these the bacterial wilt is caused by Roistonia solanacearum. The preliminary objective of the study was to screen selected brinjal germ plasm for resistance to Roistonia solanacearum. The genetic material for screening were also collected from different geographical areas of India and abroad. The collections were also included from national released varieties and some commercial hybrids. Seedling's were raised in a bacterial wilt sick nursery bed. One-month-old seedling's roots were injured with the help of sickle by cutting through the soil. As a primary source of inoculum, solution containing Roistonia solanacearum was poured along the injured roots. Later 35 days old seedlings were transplanted into bacterial wilt sick main field by dipping the roots in solution of causal organisms. Each entry plant was transplanted alongwith a known susceptiable check. This was done to confirm the effect of causal orgasism on test plant as well as the susceptible check. Among the collected lines screened, majority of them have been immune/resistant. Often the geographical region with high rainfall and flood, leading to leaching of fertile soil and development of acidic soil, seems to have helped the developed and spread of bacterial wilt causal organism. The local cultivars, which stood in the disease sick land found themselves as bacterial wilt resistant/tolerant in those regions.

2 tables, 6 ref

009060   Saravanan R;Ghouse Basha M;Amzad Basha K; Vivekanandan L (P.G. and Research Dep of Botany, Jamal Mohamed College, Tiruchirappalli-620 020, Email: ghobashjmc@yahoo.com) : Ex situ culture studies on medicinal plant Pedalium murex (Linn). Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 178-80.

Studies nodal, internodal segments of Pedalium murex (Linn) were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 3 mg/l 2,4-D, which was found to be most suitable for the successful callus initiation. The callus was then cultured on MS medium consisting of MS basal salts, 0.8% agar and 3% sucrose supplemented with BAP with a concentration of 3 mg/l, which lead to the highest rate of multiple shoot bud initiation. The in vitro shootlets were cultured on different concentrations of 2, 4-D in combination with BAP in the culture medium. For flower initiation, the highest rate of flower initiation was in the culture media supplemented with 1.5 mg/l 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/l BAP.

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

009059   Salgare S A;Joshi A N (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd., Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat) : Whether optimum pollen germination and tube length attained in the same growth medium (sucrose + boric acid) by red missile cultivar of capsicum frutescens I.. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 174-6.

Bobko and Zerling (1938) observed higher viability in the pollen when the plants were given boron-rich fertilizers. Antles (1951) reports that the pollen which failed to germinate in sugar solutions without boric acid, gave 100 per cent germination in sugar alone when the plants were given boron-rich fertilizers for a period of four years.

1 table, 15 ref

009058   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd. Prathamesh Society, Shivaju Chowk, Karjat-421 201) : Effect of atrataf 50W on the rate of pollen germination and tube growth of succesive flowers of five cultivars of Petunia axillaris BSP. and further evidence of a criticism of berg (1973) Brandt (1974), Vick and Bevan (1976), Rasmussan (1977), Navara, Horvathand kaleta (1978), Mhatre (1980 - ph.D. thesis), Mhatre, Chaphekar, Ramani rao, Patil, Haldar (1980), Shetye (1982 - ph.d. thesis) and giridhar (1984 - Ph.D. thesis)- a critical review. Himalayan J Envir Zool 2007, 21(2), 377-9.

^ssc17 ref

009057   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd. Prathamesh Society, Shivaju Chowk, Karjat-421 201) : Whether optimum pollen germination and tube length attained by the pollen of five cultivars of Petunia axillaris BSP. in the same growth medium (sucrose + MH) and further evidence of a criticism of nair, nambudiri and thomas (1973) - a critical review. Himalayan J Envir Zool 2007, 21(2), 365-67.

Residual matter of the herbicides left over in the soil, may, further, proves to be an important factor in the growth of the subsequent crops.

^ssc1 table, 9 ref

009056   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd. Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat, Maharashtra) : Fresh light on the embryology of Phaseolus aconitifolius jacquin, obs. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 187-90.

51 ref

009055   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd., Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat, Maharashtra) : Superposed multiple megagametophyte - trisporic development in Cyamopsis psoralioides DC. - a record for the angiosperms. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 184-6.

Cyamopsis psoralioides DC., is a member of the Papilionaceae showed at one instance a linear tetrad of megaspores, where the chalazal three megaspores found functional, while the micropylar one lost its potentiality, leaving behind its remnant. Thus resulting into the superposed multiple megagametophytes. The upper megagametophyte is developed up to the four-nucleate stage. The middle megagametophyte developed six nuclei, arranged in two groups, four at the micropylar end and two at the chalazal end. The chalazal megagametophyte developed three antipodal cells. Thus resulted in the trisporic in origin.

33 ref

009054   Salgare S A (NO, , Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd. Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat) : Is it monosporic development or bisporic development in Cyamopsis psoralioides DC.?:. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 177-80.

Cyamopsis psoralioides DC. is a member of the Papilionaceae. In one micropreparation a linear arrangement of three spores was noted, perhaps the micropylar one is a dyad member, while the chalazal two are megaspores. In another micropreparation again three cells were observed, where the micropylar one is in the stage of degeneration. The chalazal cell is having two nuclei, while the next to it is having a nucleus which in the stage of division.

53 ref

009053   Rodrigues V;Bhandari R;Khurana J P;Sharma P K (Botany Dep, Goa University, Goa-403 206, Email: prabhat_k_sharma@rediffmail.com) : Movement of chloroplasts in mesophyll cells of Garcinia indica in response to UV-B radiation. Curr Sci 2007, 92(11), 1610-13.

Effect of UV-B radiation (280-320 nm) alone with reference to photosynthesis was studied in Garcinia indica. One year-old glasshouse-grown plants were transferred to a growth chamber fitted with UV-B source. Plants were exposed to 1 mW/sq. cm of UV-B radiation for three days. Although photosynthesis was not completely inhibited due to UV-B treatment, it declined by nearly 74% compared to glasshouse-grown plants. In other words, photosynthesis was being carried out, albeit at a much lesser level. Horizontal arrangement of chloroplasts in all layers of mesophyll cells was observed in treated leaves. Spectroscopic measurements showed that plants accumulated flavone with λ_max at 230 nm, which was seen to be at the cost of a decrease in another flavone with λ_max at 215 nm. Paper chromatographic analysis also showed accumulation of flavone and anthocyanin in treated plants compared to control. It is proposed that UV-B radiation (280-320 nm) may act as a signal for chloroplast movement under in vivo conditions. Whether the flavone with λ_max at 230 nm has any cause and effect relationship with respect to UV-B-induced phototropic movement of chloroplasts in the mesophyll cells, remains to be investigated.

4 illus, 19 ref

009052   Rawat D S;Rana C S (NO, G.B. Pant Univesity of Agriculture and Technology, Horticulture Resera, Srinagar-Garhwal-246 174) : Arenaria curvifolia Majumdar (Caryophyllaceae): an endangered and endemic Himalayan herb rediscovered. Curr Sci 2007, 92(11), 1486-8.

^ssc3 illus, 17 ref

009051   Rathor O S;Ranjalkar K M;Chillawar R G (Post Graduate Botany Dep, Science College, Nanded, Maharashtra) : New records for the flora of Marathwada. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 60-2.

Deals with few additions to the flora of Marathwada, as these plants were observed for the first time during ethnobotanical explorations. For each species correct botanical name, family locality and description is given.

5 ref

009050   Rajan S;Sethuraman M;Mukherjee P K;Badami S (Survey of Medicinal Plants & Collection Unit, Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Udhagamandalam-643 002, Email: srajan68@rediffmail.com) : Anti-implantation acitivity of Schleichera oleosa (lour.) Oken and Tephrosia purpurea (L.) Pers. in female albino rats. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 153-6.

Methanolic extracts of Schleichera oleosa (stem bark) and Tephrosia purpurea (root) were screened for anti-implantation activity at 100 & 200 mg/kg body weight doses given orally for 6 days to pregnant rats. T. purpurea root extract at 200 mg/kg body weight dose showed 50% anti-implantation activity. Both the extracts at both the doses reduced the number of implantation sites significantly, and a dose-related response was observed .

1 table, 14 ref

009049   Pradhan N;Joshi S D (Botany Central Dep, Tribhuvan Univ, Kirtipur, Kathmandu, Nepal) : Fissidens robinsonii Broth. (Fissidentaceae, Musci), a new record for Nepal. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 105-8.

Fissidens robinsonii Broth, is being reported for the first time at 220 m of the Kailali district of West Nepal. Ecological and climatic conditions related to the habitat of this forest. moss are also discussed.

2 illus, 14 ref

009048   Patil N N;Nannor B S (Botany Dep, Chandmal Tarachand Bora College, Shirur-Ghodnadi-412 710) : Influence of AM, azotobacter and vermicompost on growth and yield in sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.). Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 113-16.

AM (Acaulospora laevis, Glomus bagyarajii, G. fasciculatum and G. mosseae) along with Azotobacter and vermicompost, gave sugarcane, yield 15.35 kg, plant girth 9.18 cm, number of leaves 123.4 and number of suckers 10.2, which were highest in AM +AZ+V. The plant height 152.8 cm was highest in AM+V and AM+AZ. The P (4.125%) and N (0.2661%) from plants were highest in treatments AM+V and AM+AZ+V, respectively.

5 illus, 1 table, 12 ref

009047   Patel S I;Srivastava K J (Life Sciences Arts Dep, Science & Commerce College, Ozar (Mig), Nashik-422 206) : Incidence of air-borne conidia of Helminthosporium linn. over some leafy vegetables at Nashik (M.S.). Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 199-200.

1 illus, 7 ref

009046   Patel K G;Ramana Rao T V (Biosciences Dep, Sardar Patel University, Vallabh Vidyanagar-388 120, Email: tadapanenirao.com) : Effect of simulated water stress on the physiology of leaf senescence in three genotypes of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp). Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 138-45.

Deal with the impact of simulated water stress on the physiology of leaf senescence in three genotypes of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), viz. Akshay-102(A), Gomti vu-89(G) and Pusa Falguni(P). The induced water stress created by withholding water supply from flowering stage causes significant declines in the levels of chlorophylls with an increase in the amount of total carotenoids during senescence of the leaves of all the three presently studied genotypes of cowpea plants in comparison to that of control plants. A significant decrease in the amount of total protein is associated with the significant increase in the net pool of total free amino acids in Pusa Falguni and Gomti genotype during maturation and senescence stage of leaves. The increase in the levels of total phenols occur consistently, but significant increase occurs only at 65 and 75 days in Pusa Falguni and Akshay, while in Gomti it occurs from 55 to 75 days age of plants. The levels of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) declined during maturation and senescent stage of leaves, but only Akshay exhibits non-significant decrease in the levels of its RNA. The specific activity of acid and alkaline proteases are more during the maturation and senescence of leaves in plants facing induced water stress condition than that of plants grown in the control plot, but this activity is found to be significant only in Gomti variety. While the specific activity of catalase decreases, that of peroxidase and polyphenoloxidase increases during development, maturation and senescence of leaves in all three genotypes. From the obtained data, it may be concluded that Akshay genotype displayed better drought tolerance than other two genotypes of cowpea.

7 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

009045   Nagaraja T G (Botany Dep, The New College, Kolhapur-416 012) : Mineral composition in the leaves of Mappia foetida Miers under pathogenesis. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 63-5.

Mineral composition in the leaves of Mappia foetida Miers infected with leaf curl cirus were carried out. The infection stimulates uptake of elements such as calcium, copper, lead and zinc. On the contrary, elements like sodium, potassium, magnesium, iron, nickel, managnese, cobalt, cadmium, lithium contents were decreased in the infected tissue.

1 table, 14 ref

009044   Nagar D P;Singh V P (Field Research Laboratory (DRDO), , Leh (Ladakh), Jammu & Kashmir) : Phytodiversity (angiosperms) in Nubra valley, Ladakh. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 161-4.

Nubra, one of the five valleys of Ladakh has numerous glaciated streams providing.it plentiful freshwater, making ideal conditions for the growth of unique flora. The vegetation here shows great level of endemism, rarity and fragility, result of climate and altitudinal position of the area facilitated the evolution of diverse and unique ecosystem of the world. Most of the species relate to the native species of Tibet and Afghanistan. In the present study, 431 species in 251 genera are recorded. Asteraceae was the most dominant family; while 43% families were found with single species.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

009043   Manivannan P;Abdul Jaleel C;Kishorekumar A; Sankar B;Somasundaram R;Sridharan R;Pannerselvam R (Stress Physiology Lab, Botany Dep, Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: kalaisomu_20@rediffmail.com) : Changes in antioxidant metabolism under drought stress in Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 133-7.

Pot culture experiment was conducted to estimate the effects of drought stress in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) plants. From 30 days after sowing (DAS), the plants were subjected to 3, 6 and 9 days interval drought (DID) stress and one day interval irrigation was kept as control. The plant samples were collected on 34 DAS (3 DID), 37 DAS (6 DID) and 40 DAS (9 DID). The plants were separated into root, stem and leaf for estimating the antioxidant contents and activities of antioxidant enzymes. Ascorbic acid (AA), α-tocopherol (α-toe) contents, superoxide dismutase (SOD), ascorbate peroxidase (APX), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and catalase (CAT) activities were highly influenced under drought stress when compared to control.

2 illus, 33 ref

009042   Mallikharjuna P B;Seetharam Y N (NO, Government College for Women, Kolar-563 101) : Phytochemical and antimicrobial studies of Strychnos potatorum L.f. seed extracts. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 137-40.

Successive petroleum ether, chloroform, ethanol and aqueous extracts of Stryehnos potatorum seeds showed the presence of various secondary metabolites of therapeutic importance viz., alkaloids, saponins, phenols, tannins, glycosides, and triterpenes. The organic extracts were found to be effective against the tested pathogenic bacteria and fungi.

2 tables, 16 ref

009041   Maheshwari R (NO, , 53/A2, SPL Sreteertha Apartments, 4th Main, 17th Cross, Malleswaram, Bangalore-560 055, Email: ramesh.maheshwari@gmail.com) : Scourge of mankind: from ancient times into the genomics era. Curr Sci 2007, 93(9), 1249-56.

Due to accumulation of mutations in the genes determining pathogenicity, the parasite frequently evolves into newer races that overcome the effects of rust-resistant genes in crop plants introduced from their wild relatives. A `race' continues between the plant breeders and the coevolving rust races, requiring newer strategies of controlling the rust disease. These could be anti-adhesion fungicides, preventing the adhesion of pathogen on host surface; or by the modification of the host topography by metabolic engineering, such that germ tubes are misdirected from reaching the stomata.

9 illus, 40 ref

009040   Mahajan M (Botany Dep, Fergusson College, Pune 4, M.S.,) : Phycomycotina and ascomycotina over groundnut field at Faizpur. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(3), 665-6.

Phycomycotina and Ascomycotina over groundnut field at Faizpur Village (Dist. Jalgaon) was studied in relation to environmental factors like temperature, rainfall and humidity with the help of Tilak Air Sampler during kharif and summer seasons. 18 species of fungi were identified during present investigation. There was variation in airspora during different seasons. Maximum no. of ascospores obtained when there is high humidity & low temperature.

9 ref

009039   Kulkarni R Y;Dev D V (Botany Dep, Yogeshwari Mahavidyalaya, Ambajogai-431 517) : Effect of harvest height on biomass productivity in different shrubland species. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(3), 547-50.

Studies on traditionally grown shrubland species but not conventionally cultivated were studied for three -years, although meager research work is noticed when literature survey is scanned. Traditionally grown plants like Sesbania sesban, Leuceana leucocephala, Sesbania grandiflora, Moringa oleifera and Gliricidia maculata to certain extent were useful. It is however, observed that these traditionally grown plants were not viewed from different angle for biomass productivity. They were either ignored or were kept in limited use for their production potential. The recognition of such plants for high biomass production and nutrients rich status was taken into consideration with a view that they can make substantial contribution towards the utilization of wasteland for nutrients rich fodder. The studies on these lines were concentrated in five shrubland species and four grasses. Before recommending any shrub land plant for nutrient rich biomass production. A new approach was adopted towards these plants by training, pruning and converting the tree species into a browse and then growing under different environment of same species of tree environment along with grass as ground cover. .

1 table, 5 ref

009038   Khan F U;Khan F A;Hayat N;Bhat S A (Floriculture Div, Medical and Aromatic Plants, Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of K, Shalimar Campus-191 121, Email: fukhanskuastk@rediffmail.com) : Influence of certain chemicals on vase life of cut tulip. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 127-32.

Experiment was undertaken in two consecutive seasons of 2003-04 and 2004-05 to understand the physiological and biochemical events leading to senescence and the role of chemicals in advancing the longevity of cut tulip. Standard grade of tulip bulbs cv. `Apeldoorn' were grown in the open field conditions following the recommended package and practices. Tulip scapes were harvested at bud colour break stage and placed in conical flasks (250 ml) containing vase solution comprised of sucrose (Suc) 2.0 per cent and 4.0 per cent plus aluminum sulphate (AS) 200 and 300 ppm, and citric acid (CA) 1000 and 2000 ppm. Distilled water without any chemical was served as control. The flasks were kept in the laboratory at a room temperature of 20 ± 2°C with a relative humidity of 70 ± 5% under cool light of 2000 lux (12 h). Floral preservatives significantly influenced the different physiological attributes and improved the quality and vase life of cut tulip by about 4 days. Holding solutions comprised of Suc 4% + AS 200 ppm resulted in maximum fresh weight gain of scapes (30.22%), leaf chlorophyll content (0.41 mg g^-1 f.w.), leaf and petal relative water content (RWC) (64.5% and 58.7%), petal membrane stability index (MSI) (53.7%) and leaf and petal sugar (29.35 mg g^-1 d. w. and 38.3 mg g^-1 d. w.) and protein (18.55 mg g^-1 d. w. and 28.9 mg g^-1 d. w.). Similar treatment also recorded the highest scape length (29.80 cm), tepal diameter (8.96 cm) and vase life (11.66 day).

2 illus, 5 tables, 21 ref

009037   Khade S K;Chavan P D (Botany Dep, Shivaji University, Kolhapur-416 004) : Changes in organic constituents during leaf senescence in sericultural crop Morus alba L.. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 31-4.

Sericulture is becoming one of the important agroindustry in the state of Maharashtra. The feeding of silkworms on the leaf material of mulberry (Morus alba Linn.) is one of the significant components of sericulture. Thus the leaf quality has an obvious impact on the nutrition of silkworms. Hence changes in some major organic constituents during leaf senescence in the three cultivars of mulberry viz-M5 (K2), V1 and S36 was studied. The leaf senescence was accompanied with decline in starch and non reducing sugars while the level of reducing sugars increased in the senescent leaves. Among the three leaf categories (young, mature and senescent) maximum crude protein content was noticed in young leaves of all the three cultivars while in senescent leaves there was marked reduction in protein content. The organic acid level (as indicated by Titratable Acidity Values) showed significant decrease during leaf senescence especially in cultivar Vi. The photosynthetic pigments (chlorophylls and carotenoids) were significantly lowered in the senescent leaves of all the three cultivars. The above findings indicate that the senescence of mulberry leaves can create disturbance in the silkworm nutrition.

1 table, 16 ref

009036   Keshavkant S;Naithani S C (School of Life Sciences, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla University, Raipur-492 010, Email: keshav_91@rediffmail.com) : Low temperature stress induced changes in the phenolic contents and its regulatory enzymes in sal seedlings. Indian J Pl Physiol 2007, 12(2), 146-52.

Changes in growth pattern and phenol levels were studied in sal seedlings in response to low temperature (9-14.1°C, night temp.) in the field and under greenhouse conditions (Temp. 30-32°C, RH 70-767, Light intensity 33523 Lux). Constant exposure of field grown seedlings to low-temperature (during November to March) resulted in injury. Nearly 80-86% seedlings exhibited desiccated, necrotic leaves and shoots along with severe reduction in dry mass. Abrupt increase in the phenol levels (1.8ª2.2 folds) was discernible both in the leaves and shoots with the drop in air temperature below 14.1°C. Overproduction of phenols in aerial parts during this period commensurate with both enhanced activity (1.5 and 1.7 folds in the leaves and shoots respectively) of its synthesizing enzyme L-phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) and simultaneous reduction (8 and 13 folds in the leaves and shoots, respectively) in its degrading enzyme polyphenol oxidase (PPO). As a result, accumulation of excess levels of phenolics culminates into irreversible injury in aerial parts of sensitive sal seedling in response to low-temperature that is one of the causes of mass scale mortality in these seedlings.

2 illus, 2 tables, 23 ref

009035   Karthikeyan B;Muthuselvam K;Parthasarathi R; Deiveekasundaram M (Microbiology Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002, Email: balakar02@yahoo.com) : The rhizosphere, non-rhizosphere and diazotrophic microbial populations of some commercially grown medicinal plants. Crop Res 2007, 33(1-3), 244-7.

Indian system of medicine exploits only 25,000 species of medicinal plants span over 1000 genera. Phyto-pharmaceutical companies require a wealth in knowledge on biological diversity in rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere of medicinal plants. Studies on some medicinal plants viz., Ocimum sanctum, Coleus forskholii, Aloe vera and Catharanthus roseus rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere revealed that there was a significant difference in bacterial and fungal diversity and it was evident from their R : S ratio (1.29). The diazotrophic populations such as Azospirillum sp., Azotobacter sp. and Pseudomonas sp. were found in higher number in the rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere of C. roseus. Hence, the study revealed effective microbial activity found in C. roseus.

1 table, 7 ref

009034   Jagmeet Kaur;Amandeep Kaur (Plant Breeding Dep, Genetics and Biotechnology, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-41 004) : Effect of IAA and TIBA as priming treatments on level of reserve metabolites during seed development in soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(3), 557-60.

The investigation was conducted to study the effect of Auxin (IAA 10,20 ng mL_-1) and anti-auxin TTIBA 25, 50 |ag mL_-1) as presoaking seed treatments on reserve metabolites during pod development. Both IAA and TIBA treatments enhanced reserve metabolites vis-a-vis total soluble sugars, starch, free amino acids in podwall and developing seeds of soybean. In mature seeds, maximum increase in total soluble sugars was recorded with 20 μg mL_-1 IAA. TIBA 50 μg mL_-1 maintained maximum value of starch and total free amino acids at all stages of seed development. In both podwall and developing seeds, higher protein content was recorded with IAA (at both the concentrations) whereas it decreased with TIBA (at both the concentrations) as compared to control.

4 illus, 11 ref

009033   Jagetiya B L;Bhatt K (Botany Dep, M.L.V. Govt. College, Bhilwara, (Rajasthan)) : Relative toxicity of various nickel species on seed germination and early seedling growth of Vigna unguiculata L.. Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 11-17.

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) seedlings were raised in water culture and exposed to varying concentrations (1,10,100,1000uM) of nickel as Ni (NO₃)2 NiSO₄and NiCI₂ with a view to compare the effect of the above nickel species on seed germination, ultimate percentage germination, dry matter production, chlorophyll contents and soluble protein (leaf) contents. The ultimate germination was 100% (except in 1000 uM) in all the treatments of various nickel species. The germination speed was found maximum at 1 uM nickel concentration. Lower concentration of nickel resulted in an enhancement while higher levels resulted decrease in fresh mass, dry matter production and chlorophyll contents of seedlings. Soluble leaf protein contents increased linearly with increasing application rates of nickel. In general, NiCl₂ was more inhibitory than NiSO₄ and Ni (NO₃)₂ Ni (NO₃)₂ was found to be least toxic. The extent of inhibition increased with enhanced levels of Ni₂ ions. The toxicity series was found to be NiC₂<62> NiSO₄<62> Ni (NO₃)₂.

4 tables, 56 ref

009032   Isaac T;Lissy K P (Botany P.G. Dep, St. Peter's College, Kolenchery-682 311) : Effect of plant growth regulators on seed germination and seedling growth of Desmodium gangeticum DC.. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(3), 521-4.

The effects of various treatments given to seeds and effect of growth hormones like IAA, NAA, GA₃ on seed germination of Desmodium gangeticum, an important medicinal plant was examined. After seed coat puncturing, the germination studies were conducted according to TP method. Lower concentration of IAA and GA₃ were found to be promotory for seed germination, where as in NAA, it shows an inhibitory effect on germination and seedling growth. GA₃, and IAA are the best suited hormone to obtain maximum seed germination and seedling growth of D. gangcticum DC. Of the various seed treatments tried, scarification, seed coat puncturing and treatment of Cone. Sulphuric acid showed maximum germination percentage in D. gangeticum.

3 illus, 5 tables, 13 ref

009031   Gupta G;Rai V (School of Life Sciences, Pt. R.S. Univ, Raipur-492 010) : Isolation and characterization of thermophilic fungi of Raipur. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 197-8.

2 tables, 7 ref

009030   Ghangaonkar N M (Botany Dep, C.T. Bora College, Shirur (Ghodnadi)-412 210, Email: nghanu@yahoo.com) : Seasonal variations of the mycoflora on onion bulbs during storage. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 207-8.

1 table, 7 ref

009029   Dhivaharan V;Madhavan S;Thiyagesan k;Sankari P;Ambiga S (Microbiology Dep, Sengamala Thayaar Educational Trust Women's College, Sundarakkottai, Mannargudi-614 001) : Effectiveness of some chemicals in eliminating Staphylococcus aureus from Gutta-Percha cones. Geobios 2007, 34(2-3), 141-4.

Study evaluates the effectiveness of sodium hypochlorite, ethyl alcohol and formaldehyde in eliminating Staphylococcus aureus from gutta-percha cones in dentistry. The gutta-percha cones coated with S. aureus were placed into contact with the chemical agents for 5 min. These chemicals along with the root canal sealer, assure a high degree of decontamination of the gutta-percha.

2 tables, 6 ref

009028   Bhandane V V;Patil G G (P.G. and Reserch Dep of Botany, Pratap College, Amalner-425 401) : Leaf epidermal studies in Walsura trifolia (A. Juss.) Harms. and Aglaia odoratissima Blume. (Meliaceae). Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 39-43.

Observations on the foliar epidermal structures of Walsura trifolia and Aglaia odoratissima of Meliaceae have been investigated. In both species, the adaxial epidermal cells are larger in size and have a thick wall. The adaxial epidermal cells are polygonal with straight walls, while the abaxial surface cells are anisodiametric and sinuous. The leaves, are hypostomatic, stomata are anomocytic. The cuticle on the abaxial epidermis shows papillose structure in both species studied. The development of epidermal papillae is characteristic in Aglaia and Walsura.

7 illus, 1 table, 14 ref

009027   Beena K N;Jaya D S (Environmental Sciences Dep, Kerala Univ, Kariavattom P.O. Thiruvananthapuram-695 581, Email: j_ds@rediffmail.com) : Physio-biochemical changes in evergreen plants around KMML industrial area in Kollam district, Kerala. Ecol Envir Conserv 2007, 13(3), 493-6.

The study was conducted around the KMML industrial area in Chavara taluk of Kollam district to evaluate the changes in physiological and biochemical characteristics of evergreen plants. The plants selected for the study are Cocos nudfera,L. (coconut tree), Mangifera indica,L. (mango tree), Thespesia populnea, Cav.(Indian Tulip). The leaf sampling was done from selected plants around the industrial area in three different polluted zones and in the control area. The physio-biochemical parameters of the plant species growing in different polluted zones were compared to that of the plants in the control zone. Total chlorophyll content, leaf extract pH, relative water content, foliar ascorbic acid content, foliar carotenoid content, total protein content and total carbohydrate content were decreased in the polluted zones while the foliar phenol content showed an increase in the polluted zones when compared to that of the control area. Air pollution tolerance index value of the different plant species studied showed that the Cocos nucifera is moderately tolerant and moderately sensitive species to air pollution (APT! between 10 and 16) while the Thespesia populnea and Mangifera indica were found to be sensitive (APTI <60> 10). The relative sensitivity of the three plants species studied in the KMML surroundings is in the order Thespesia populnea<62> Mangifera indica <62> Cocos nucifera.

2 tables, 11 ref

008224   Tyagi S (Botany Dep, M. M. H. College, Ghaziabad-201 002) : Floral anatomy of Leonotis nepetaefolia. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(2), 577-9.

Detail vascular anatomy of the flower of Leonotis nepetaefolia is described which reveal that carpellary dorsals may originate before formation of sepal and petal traces. There are four perfect stamens which are adnate to the corolla tube. The placentation is topographically axile and anatomically parietal.

1 illus, 19 ref

008223   Tripathy N K;Behera N (NO, B.P. College, Boudh-762 014) : Ethnobotany of fibre usages in Bolangir district of Orissa. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(2), 559-62.

Fifty-seven wild plants distributed among 50 genera and 25 families are used as fibre in Bolangir district. For roof purpose, members of Poaceae with long and durable leaves are chosen. Annual herbs are selected for bark extraction, while climber stems are preferred for cordage. Maximum number of species flowers from July to October, which corresponds to the minimum fibre extraction period. Stems of Rotula aquatica, Hemidesmus indicus, Tamarix ericoides, Cryptolepis sinensis, ripe dry fruit of Luffa, immatured and aborted fruits of Oryza sativa and other species, Coralloid type root of Phoenix sylvestris and ramenta of Borassus flabellifer are intersting reports for water enduring fibre uses. The auspicious and rare use of sikly thread drawn from the latex of Nelumbo nucifera pedicel and petiole impress to examine it as a resource plant for silk fibre.

6 illus, 1 table, ref

008222   Singh J P N;Singh S K;Archana Singh (Zoology Dep, R.H.S.(P.G.) College, Singramau, Jaunpur-222 175) : Protein and carbohydrate histochemistry of the epidermis of migratory fish, Sciaena coitor (Ham.) (Perciformes:Sciaenidae). Biochem Cell Archs 2007, 7(1), 97-104.

In Sciaena coitor free surfaces of epithelial cells are differentiated into microridges. The presence of conspicuous microridges on the surface of the mucogenic epidermis could be considered to reflect high secretory of surface epithelial cells in mucogenic epidermis. Enormously large size of mucous cells in epidermis has been associated with increased mucous secretion on body surface, an adaptation to protect body against abrasion during swimming in fast flowing water current Proteinaceous secretion of sacciform cells may be associated to protect fish from infections to which these fishes are frequently exposed during journey from sea to river. Lymphocytes play a significant role in local defence mechanism. The eosinophilic granular cells contain tryptophan which may play important role in local defence mechanism also.

1 table, 54 ref