005234   Pradhan S;Pradhan S (Botany Dep, Balimela college of Science and Technology, Balimela-764 051) : Biodiversity and water quality of Potteru Barrage, Balimela, Orissa. Bionotes 2007, 9(3), 87-8.

^ssc3 tables, 4 ref

005233   Pillai S G;Patil M B (Dep of Botany, Shri Shivaji college, Parbhani) : Mycotoxigenic fungi in bakery. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 71-2.

Aeromycoflora of bakery in relation to the incidence of mycotoxigenic fungi duing the year 2005-2006 was carried out. Altogether 11 genera could be spotted during the observation period. The incidence of Aspergillus flaus, Aspergillus niger and Asperagillus fumigatus followed by Pencillium species was highest. Species of Mucor, rhizopus and trichothecium were low in their percentage of incidence.

1 table, 5 ref

005232   Nagori M L;Khosla S C (Geology Dep, Mohanlal Sukhadia Univ, Udaipur-313 002, Email: sckhoslal@yahoo.com) : Ostracod fauna from the non-marine inter-trappean bed of Mohgaon-haveli, Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. Curr Sci 2007, 92(10), 1358-1359.

18 ref

005231   Nagaraja T G (Dep of Botany, 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, ref 14

005230   Minhas K S;Pal R;Brar R S (Agronomy Dep, Agrometeorology & Forestry, Punjab Agriculture Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Effect of nitrogen application on transplanted hybrid Gobhi sarson (Brassica napus L.) in relation to age of seedlings. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 291-4.

A field experiment was conducted during rabi of 1998-99 and 1999-2000, to evaluate the effect of different levels of nitrogen (0, 50, 100 and 150 kg N/ ha on transplanted hybrid gobhi sarson PGSH-51 (Brassica napus L.) in relation to different age of seedlings (30, 40, 50 and 60 days). Significantly higher seed and straw yield were obtained with application of 100 kg N/ha, that was at par with 150 kg N/ha. Plant height, number of primary and secondary branches / plant, seeds / siliqua increased significantly up to 100 kg N/ ha, except the number of secondary branches/plant showed the non-significant response to the nitrogen application during second year. Forty-days old seedlings produced significantly higher seed and straw yield, siliquae/plant, plant height as compared to age of seedlings of 50 and 60 days, but at par with 30 days old seedlings. However, the seeds / siliquae, 1,000-seed weight, number of primary and secondary branches / plant were not significantly influenced by different age of seedlings.

2 tables, 8 ref

005229   Manorma Kumari (Botany Dep, A N College, Patna-800 013) : Effect of gamma rays of length of fruit in Capsicum annuum. Bionotes 2007, 9(3), 90.

^ssc1 table, 2 ref

005228   Malik T H;Sofi K A (NO, Allahabad Agricultural Institute-Deemed Univ, Allahabad-211 007) : Effect of Rhizobium and different levels of sulfur on growth, nodulation, yield and oil content of soybean Glycine max (L) Merr., cv JS 75-46. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 325-6.

The study was undertaken during kharif season of 2001 to evaluate the effect of Rhizobium and different levels of sulfur on soybean Glycine max (L) Merr. The lowest plant height, nodulation, number of pods, grain yield, dry matter accumulation were obtained in control plots while the highest were in the plots-treated with Rhizobium + sulfur at 30 kg/ha. The plant height, number of nodules, and dry matter accumulation increased significantly by the use of Rhizobium along with sulfur. Pods count/plant, grain yield, stover yield was maximum with treatment Rhizobium inoculated + 30 kg S/ha. The treatment Rhizobium inoculated + 45 kg S/ha. was found at par with the former. The nodulation and oil content were maximum with Rhizobium inoculated + 45kg S/ha. The treatment Rhizobium inoculated + 30 kg S/ha was found at par with the above. The interaction between Rhizobium and sulfur was found to be significant for number of pods, nodules, dry matter accumulation, grain yield, stover yield and oil content.

2 tables, 3 ref

005227   Mahekar P D;Kore P S (Dep of Botany, Shivaji University, Kolhapur-416 004) : Preliminary survey of `vavading' and its substitutes used in folk medicines of Maharashtra. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(1), 22-6.

`Vavding' is an important indigenous drug. The fruits of `Vavding' are used widely as an anthelmintic, alternative tonic, in headache, rhinitis, hemicrania, epilepsy and many other disorders. The official botanical origin of `Vavding' refers to the fruits of Embelia ribes Burm. F. (Myrsinaceae). The market samples constitutes fruits mainly that of E. basaal (R. & S.) A. DC. (E. robusta Clarke.) and E. drupacea (Dennest.) M.R. & S.M. Almeida (E. viridiflora Scheft.) Maesa indica Wall and Myrsine africana L. On the name of `Vavding' fruits of E. basaal and E. drupacea are sold in the market. So far there are no complaints from public about the drug. Attempts have been made to distinguish four samples of fruits sold under the name of `vavding' in the market on the basis of external morphology of fruit. Reports identification of four species used under trade name `Vavding' on the basis of external fruit characters. So that correct botanical identity can be confirmed by fruit characters.

1 table, 20 ref, 1 Plate

005226   Limaye R B;Kumaran K P N;Nair K M;Padmalal D (Palynology and Palaeoclimate Laboratory, Geology and Palaeontology Gro, Agharkar Research Institute, G.G. Agarkar Road, Pune-411 004, Email: kpnkumaran@gmail.com) : Non-pollen palynomorphs as potential palaeoenvironmental indicators in the late quaternary sediments of the West coast of India. Curr Sci 2007, 92(10), 1370-82.

Non-pollen palynomorphs (NPP) are organic-walled microfossils that one frequently come across in palynological preparations during pollen analysis. Like pollen and spores they are more resistant to corrosion, and as such they too get preserved but not destroyed during maceration using HF and other strong acids. They provide an alternative source of palaeo-information where there is scarcity of pollen and spores in the sediments. Records of NPP in the Late Quaternary sediments form a valuable addition to the pollen-spore data of the lagoonal sediments of Kerala and the pollen pauper deposits of Gujarat coast, as not much palynological data are available from the west coast of India. The occurrence of Botryococcus, Pediastrum and colonies of Rivularia (cyanobacteria) in the Holocene sequence has considerable significance to ascertain the hydrological changes associated with the evolution of lagoons of the Kerala basin. Glomus cf. fasciculatum and thecamoebians are useful in the interpretation of soil conditions associated with aridity/stressed environment along the Gujarat coast. The abundance of microscopic charcoal and charred epidermal fragments of Poaceae (grasses and like forms) is related to fire-associated events, including that of human impact. Thus, the palaeoenvironmental indicator value of NPP is evident from the Late Quaternary deposits of the west coast of India. Study of these non-pollen micro-fossils has helped develop a new database on them. Further, a combined approach of pollen and NPP allows for better understanding of palaeoecological changes and also to assess the relative importance of climate change during the Holocene.

6 illus, 1 table, 62 ref

005225   Lattoo S K;Dhar R S;Khan S;Bamotra S;Dhar A K (Biotechnology Dep, Genetics and Plant Breeding, Indian Institute of Integrative Medicine (CSIR), formerly Regional Research Laboratory, Canal Road, Jammu Tawi-180 001, Email: surrinlattoo@rediffmail.com) : Temporal sexual maturation and incremental staminal movement encourages mixed mating in Withania somnifera - an insurance for reproductive success. Curr Sci 2007, 92(10), 1390-99.

Withania somnifera is a multipurpose plant of immense therapeutic value and wide geographic distribution. It exhibits extensive phenotypic and chemical variability. Here author describe a sexual mechanism deployed by the species to make the maximum out of sexual polymorphism. Results suggest that the species practices mixed mating as a consequence of partial temporal dichogamy of protogynous type under which the receptive stigma remains exserted beyond the undehisced staminal cone to receive cross pollen through insect vectors. In a probable situation of non-receipt of pollen through insect pollinators, autonomous fertilization is guaranteed by the upward staminal increase to form a cone connivent about the receptive stigma. Floral pheno-events suggest that crossing and autonomous selfing are mutually exclusive as the self-pollen arrives late during floral ontogeny. Seed-set efficiency and fruiting success are not influenced by pollen genotypes (self/cross) under different pollination treatments (autogamy, geitonogamy and xenogamy). Preemergent reproductive success averages 37% with open pollination. DNA content (chromatin length 47.51 μm) is distributed asymmetrically among 24 chromosomes (2n = 48). Meiotic system reveals high recombination index (71.2). In accordance with the theoretical predictions for mixed mating, intermediate levels of heterozygosity are maintained. This is illustrated by the proportion of polymorphic loci calculated as Shannon index employing RAPD. High pollen-ovule ratio (631.77), pronounced protogyny, copious nectar production and insect visitation provide for strong outcrossing. However, small flower size, high seed-to-ovule ratio (0.76) and moderate fruit-to-flower ratio (0.49) are in conformity with the predicts of 'reproductive assurance hypothesis'. Mixed mating and the efficient meiotic recombination system provide a reliable strategy that guarantees reproductive success and genetic polymorphism 'with' you or 'without' you pollinator environment.

4 illus, 4 tables, 51 ref

005224   Kaushik N;Gurudev Singh B;Tomar U K;Naik S N; Vir S;Bisla S S;Sharma K K;Banerjee S K;ThakkarP (Bioresources and Biotechnology Div, The Energy and Resources Institute, Habitat Place, Lodhi Road, New Delhi-110 003, Email: kaushikn@teri.res.in) : Regional and habitat variability in azadirachtin content of Indian neem (Azadirachta indica A. jesieu). Curr Sci 2007, 92(10), 1400-07.

Azadirachtin content in the seeds of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Jusieu) collected from different regions of India was studied. The concentration of azadirachtin varied from 200 to 16,000 ppm (μg/g of the seed kernel). Azadirachtin content was found to be affected by climate and habitat. Annual variation in azadirachtin content was significant. The highest azadirachtin content was recorded in the neem tree populations growing in the southern part of India.

5 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

005223   Jayakumar K;Vijayarengan P;Kumar A K;Jaleel C A (Botany Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : Cobalt induced changes in the antioxidant enzyme activities in maize (Zea mays L.). Chem envir Res 2007, 16(1&2), 117-22.

The effect of cobalt (0,50, 100, 150, 200 and 250 mg kg^-1 of soil) was studied on the antioxidant enzyme activities in shoot and root of maize plants under pot culutre at 30 days after sowing. The catalase activity of shoot and roots of maize plants increased at 50 mg kg_-1 of cobalt level in the soil and then decreased further with an increase of cobalt level in the soil (100-250 mg kg^-1). Peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase activities of shoot and roots of maize plants decreased at 50 mg kg^-1 of cobalt level in the soil and increased further with an increase of cobalt level in the soil (100-250 mg kg^-1). The cobalt application at 50 mg kg^-1 soil has a beneficial value up on the antioxidant enzyme activities.

1 table, 25 ref

005222   Gupta V;Nand Kishore;Partap P S (Vegetable Sciences Dep, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004, Email: vishal-24@hau.ernet.in) : Character association and path analysis in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia Linn.). Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 268-72.

Thirty-six hybrids were developed by using nine parents in half diallel crossing (no reciprocals) for correlation and path analyses to study the different qualitative and quantitative traits of bitter gourd fruits. Significant positive correlations were observed for fruit length with number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight and total fruit yield per vine. Days to first female flower showed highest direct contribution followed by number of fruits per plant and average fruit weight towards yield while days to first fruit harvest exhibited its highest indirect contribution via days to first female flower followed by fruit length and fruit diameter via days to first fruit harvest.

2 tables, 9 ref

005221   Gupta P;Pathak A C;Banafar R N S (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, Indore-452 001, Email: konpal2001in@yahoo.com) : Correlation studies in gladiolus (Gladiolus hybridus hort.). Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 428-30.

The studies of correlation among eleven characters of eight varieties of gladiolus were conducted in Indore region of Madhaya Pradesh. Positive and significant association of number of florets per spike with rachis length (0.907), spike length (0.880), plant height (0.677), in situ life of spike (0.775) and vase life of spike (0.785) indicated that single plant selection for these characters would be more effective for gladiolus improvement.

1 table, 7 ref

005220   Gupta P;Pathak A C;Banafar R N S (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, Indore-452 001, Email: konpal2001in@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of vegetative, floral and economic characters of gladiolus. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 408-11.

An investigation was carried out for comparative study of different vegetative, floral and economic characters among eight gladiolus varieties in Indore condition. Varieties White Prosperity and American Beauty performed better by considering the overall performance, though Thumbiliana has got good cut flower but its color was not wide accepted in the market. Therefore, these varieties may be recommended for exploring commercial cultivation in Indore region of Madhaya Pradesh.

3 tables, 12 ref

005219   Gupta A J;Singh Y V;Hussain K;Bhat S A;Bhat F N;Singh T K (Vegetable Science Dep, GB Pant Univ Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar-263 145) : Character association and selection parameters in garden pea (Pisum sativum L.). Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 331-5.

Eighty-three genotypes including F₁ crosses of garden pea were evaluated to investigate the correlation and path coefficient for nine characters. Analysis of variance showed highly significant differences for all the characters examined. The genotypic correlations were higher than corresponding phenotypic ones for most of the characters implying inherent relationship among them. Green pod yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with pod length, 100-green pod weight, 100-green seed weight, TSS, number of green pods per plant and dry seed yield per plant at genotypic and phenotypic levels except TSS at phenotypic level, suggesting selection for longer pods, more number and weight of green pods and seeds, high TSS and more dry seed yield per plant would be highly desirable and effective. Number of green pods per plant (0.972) had highest direct positive effect on green pod yield per plant followed by 100-green seed weight (0.316), pod length (0.240), 100-green pod weight (0.087) and TSS (0.037) on green pod yield per plant, indicating their importance as reliable selection criteria in improvement of garden pea.

2 tables, 14 ref

005218   Goutam Bala;Mukherjee A (Botany Dep, Burdwan Univ, Burdwan-713 104) : Census of wetland macrophytes in Nadia district, West Bengal. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 287-90.

This communication attempts to bring out a checklist of wetland macrophytes in Nadia district, West Bengal which includes 112, 4 and I species of angiosperms, pteridophytes and algae respectively. Objective of this work was to help wetland managers and ecologists by providing an account of the floral characteristics of the wetland community.

2 tables, 8 ref

005217   Ghosh S;Ahmed M (Botany Dep, Goalpara College, Goalpara-783 101) : Deforestation effect on species diversity index (SDI) of different herbaceous communities in Kamrup District, Assam. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 484-6.

The study was performed from 2003 to 2004 in Kamrup district of Assam. This paper deals with the species deversity index in three different herbaceous communities. The three communities were forest school area, back side of engineering college and roadside leading to the Gopinath Bordoloi airport.

2 tables, 5 ref

005216   Dhaliwal L K;Hundal S S;Kular J S;Chahal S K; Aneja A (Agronomy & Agrometeorology Dep, Genetics & Biotechnology Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Temperature based Indices for mustard aphid (Lipaphis erysimi Kalt.) forecasting under Punjab conditions. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 340-3.

The incidence, growth and multiplication of mustard aphid are largely influenced by meteorological parameters like temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind speed and cloudiness. The historical data on mustard aphid and mean temperature were analyzed from 1988-89 to 2003-2004. Mean temperature during January for both the low and high aphid attack years was compared. Mean temperature during- -January remained below 13 C during high aphid attack years while it remained above 13 C during low aphid attack years. The years with low aphid attack were comparatively warmer than the years with high aphid attack. Growing degree-days were accumulated from I December for the low and high aphid attack years. GDD model indicated that GDD accumulation and aphid attack were negatively correlated. The effect of dates of sowing was also studied which revealed that early date of sowing was best to avoid aphid as compared to normal and late date of sowing.

6 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

005215   Dey N (Botany Dep, Darjeeling Govt. College, Lebong Cart Road, Darjeeling-734 101) : Cephaleuros virescence, a pathogen on tea plant from tea garden of Darjeeling, West Bengal. Sci Cult 2007, 73(1-2), 43-4.

Cephaleures is one of the most studied green algal genus among the Trentepohliales, in part for its worldwide distribution, in part for the obvious presence on and sometimes damage to economically important host plants. It has been reported in the tropics in several host plants. It has been reported in the tropics in several host plants causing significant economic damage in several crops including tea which is commonly known as red rust of tea. In this work a brief emphasis has taken on this disease especially on the symptoms, etiology of the pathogen and also on the control measure.

4 ref

005214   Chopra J;Narinder Kaur;Gupta A K (Biochemistry and Chemistry Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: anilkgupta@satyam.net.in) : Sustained activities of carbon metabolizing enzymes determine seed size in Vigna radiata (mungbean). Curr Sci 2007, 92(10), 1420-04.

The activities of enzymes involved in the control of carbon flux of two genotypes of Vigna radiata (mung-bean) differing in seed weight were compared in order to elucidate the factors controlling seed size and to analyse the relationship between seed development and metabolism. Biomass accumulation in 'large' seeds was maintained till maturity. However in 'small' seeds, maximum accumulation was achieved approximately five days earlier. Sucrose synthase (SuSy, EC 2.4.1.13) activity for small seeds increased sharply from 10 to 15 days after flowering (DAF) and then declined till maturity. However in large seeds, the activity increased more slowly but rapidly after 15 DAF till maturity. Lesser activity of SuSy in podwall of large genotype indicated more assimilate channelling into the seeds, a much stronger sink for sucrolysis. Enzymes UDP-glucose and ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (UG-Pase, EC 2.7.7.9 and AGPase, EC 2.7.7.27) corresponded to the pattern of SuSy in large seeds, showing coordination between these enzymes regulating carbon flux for sustained storage activity.Thus the seed filling phase is prolonged in large seeds having better sink strength compared to the small seeds. Hexokinase (EC 2.7.1.1) activity follows the pattern of SuSy, UGPase and AGPase in developing seeds. We conclude that a steady sink activity of the enzymes controlling carbon flux entering the seed may be required for the large seed size of the bold seeded genotypes.

3 illus, 28 ref

005213   Bhadane V V;Patil G G (PG and research 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.

15 illus, 14 ref

005212   Bakthavathsalam R;Deivanayaki M (Zoology Dep, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Kumbakonam-612 001) : Effect of Rhizobium on growth and yield of black gram, Vigna mungo (Hepper) cultivated in pots under different nutrient media. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 360-8.

Effect of Rhizobium melilote on the growth, yield and certain biochemical constituents of black gram, Vigna mungo (Hepper) was studied using different manures such as NPK, vermicompost and cowdung. The mean values of shoot and root length and root, shoot and leaves weight observed in cowdung at 20, 40 and 60 days were relatively high when compared to plants rasised in other nutrient media with or without Rhizobium. One important observation noted in the measurements of length and weight was that irrespective of manures used, Rhizobium has its own influence on the growth of black gram. A remarkable increase in the water content of roots only in two media (NPK and vermicompost) and shoots in all media was noticed at 60 days over its 20-day mean value. However, no appreciable change was noticed in the water content of leaves in any of the nutrient media or at any period. A decreasing trend was noted in the number of leaves, lateral roots and root nodules/ plant at 60 days over its 40-day value in all the media. Of the different media, the medium with soil, cowdung and Rhizobium alone initiates more formation of lateral roots and root nodules in the black gram. Significant changes were noted in the number of flowers, pods and seeds of black gram raised in the media with soil and vermicompost and soil and cowdung over the medium with soil alone. Seed protein content showed a significant improvement over seeds obtained from soil medium alone. Of the 3 pigments, the carotenoid showed relatively high values over chlorophyll a or b values. It could be inferred that the application of vermicompost and cowdung along with or without Rhizobium has a positive role on growth and yield of black gram.

7 tables, 31 ref

005211   Bag T K (Plant Pathology Section, National Research Centre for Orchid (ICAR), Pakyong-737 106, Sikkim) : Documentaion of Sclerotinia white rot on two`Jewel Orchids' from Darjeeling W.B.. Sci Cult 2007, 73(1-2), 33-4.

2 illus, 5 ref

005210   Asha K I;Nair G M;Padmesh M;Nair M C;Reji J V (NO, , NBPGR Regional Station, Vellanikkara, Thrissur-680 654, Email: ashakarthy@rediffmail.com) : Interrelationships among species of Dioscorea spp revealed by morphological traits and RAPD markers. Indian J Pl Genet Resour 2006, 19(1), 40-6.

Assessed the interrelationships among the 12 species of Dioscorea by morphological traits and RAPD analysis using 14 decamer primers. In the molecular profiling of the 12 species of Dioscorea a total of 133 amplified products were obtained. Of the 133 amplified products all were found to be polymorphic showing high degree of genetic variability between species of Dioscorea. Morphologically related species such as D. oppositifolia, D. spicaia and D. wightii got separated in RAPD analysis. Moreover, both RAPD and morphology separated D. hispida of the Section Lasiophyton from the other two species such as D. pentapliylla and D. tomentosa. Out of the 12 species studied, 9 species were grouped into 2 clusters and D. bulbifera remained as a separate entity. The results were in agreement with the earlier classification except D. hispida and D. pubera, which remained as distinct entities from the rest. But on the basis of RAPD data, nine species were grouped into two major clusters with each species showing distinct genetic distance with others, while the rest of the three D. hispida, D. oppositifolia and D. wightii remained as separate entities.

2 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

005209   Ajay Kumar;Kapoor K;Gupta S C;Hasija R C (Mathematics & Statistics Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar-125 004) : Uniformity trial on sesame Sesamum indicum. Envir Ecol 2007, 25S(2), 295-8.

A plot size of 6m² with ten replications elongated in E-W direction and blocks elongated in E-W direction were found to be optimal. Smith law describes the relationship between plot size and error variability satisfactorily, but the relationship between block size and error variability was found to be better described by e^y = ax^b. Lattice design and latin square designs were superior to randomized block design, while. randomized block design was superior to completely randomized design.

7 tables, 8 ref

004399   Waghmare B M;Shinde S R;Bajgire R S;Gorgile V T (Botany Dep, Botany Research Centre, Maharashtra Mahavidhyalaya, Nilanga, Dist. Latur (M.S.)) : Effect of nitrogen sources on production of hydrolytic enzymes by different species of Fusarium. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 122-4.

Five species of Fusarium were isolated from seed of Cajanus cajan (Tur), Cicer areitinum (Gram), Phaseolus mungo (Black gram), Phaseolus rediatus (Green gram) and Glycine max (Soyabean) for studies on their ability to produce hydrolytic enzymes. Seven nitrogen sources were employed to study their effect on production of amylase, protease and lipase. Sodium nitrate proved to be the best source of nitrogen for amylase production in all species of Fusarium, while ammonium oxalate was found to be inhibitory. Casein and peptone proved to be poor source of nitrogen for amylase production in all the five species of Fusarium. Protease production was found to be stimulated due to sodium nitrate and sodium nitrite, while urea, casein hydrolysate and ammonium oxalate showed poor response. Similar trend was observed in regard to the production of lipase but F. dimerum and F. oxysporum showed inhibitory effect on production of lipase in the presence of sodium nitrate, peptone and ammonium oxalate in case of F. oxysporum and F. maniliforme.

1 table, 5 ref

004398   Vinod Kumar (Chemistry Dep, H. N. B. Garhwal Univ, Pauri Campus, Pauri Garhwal-246 001) : Ancient traditional therapeutic methods of Kaljikhal block of district Pauri Garhwal (Uttaranchal). Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 233-4.

The present research work is based on the exploration of such traditional therapeutic methods of Kaljikhal Block of Distt. Pauri Garhwal (Uttaranchal). This block is very rich in the knowledge of treatment of various diseases and intricate problems through commonly medicinal plants, known as Zeri-buties.

3 ref

004397   Verma N;Anand A (Tissue Culture Laboratory, Botany Dep, Bareilly College, Bareilly-243 005) : Effect of some auxins on In vitro rooting of Gerbera jamesonii (Bolus). Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 9-10.

Gerbera jamesonii (Bolus) is an important commercial cut flower crop. It is one of the top ten traded cut flowers in the world. Its vegetative propagation is slow, therefore, a protocol for micropropagation of Gerbera jamesonii was undertaken to assess the effect of some auxins on the in vitro rooting. The HI VITRO developed plants on MS medium supplemented with IAA 1 mg/L and kinetin 5 mg/L were kept for rooting on different rooting media. Three auxins viz. IAA, IBA and NAA were added into the rooting medium separately and in combinations. The earliest initiation of roots was recorded in the medium supplemented with the combination of IAA and IBA. 1 mg/L each. Also the average length of root was maximum in the same medium. However, the number of roots was maximum, when IBA 1 mg/L alone was added into the medium.

1 table, 9 ref

004396   Tyagi H;Rajasubramaniam S;Dasgupta I (Plant Molecular Biology Dep, Delhi South Campus Univ, New Delhi-110 021, Email: indranil57@hotmail.com) : Regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of a popular Indica rice variety, ADT39. Curr Sci 2007, 93(5), 678-83.

Simple and efficient protocol for the regeneration and Agrobacterium-mediated transformation of an agro-nomically useful indica rice variety, ADT39 has been standardized. Initiation of callusing and its subculture were best achieved in MS medium supplemented with 300 mg/l casein enzymatic hydrolysate. The best callusing and regeneration responses were observed at concentrations of 2 mg/l 2,4-D and 1.5 mg/l BAP. Optimal transformation efficiency of 22.2% was obtained using high concentrations of augmentin as a bacterio-static agent for a short period to inhibit the growth/persistence of Agrobacterium, without compromising the regeneration potential of the tissue. Using a viral promoter-driven GUS reporter gene, morphologically normal fertile plants were obtained. Molecular analysis of the above transgenic plants indicated several independent, single-copy transgene insertion events. Expression of the reporter gene was detected in the above plants. Mendelian inheritance of the transgene in the progeny was also observed.

3 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

004395   Tejavathi D H;Sharadamma A M (Botany Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056) : Shoot regeneration from shoot tip and nodal cultures of Antirrhinum majus L.. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 1-4.

Morphogenetic potential of shoot tip and nodal explants of Antirrhinum majus L. cvs. Rocket redstone and Rocket golden was studies by culturing them on MS medium supplemented with various growth regulators. Effect of various concentrations of auxins and cytokinins on the rale of growth in shoot tip cultures of cv. Yellow was also studied MS + IBA (9.8 μM) + BAP (8.87 μM) for shoot tip cultures in cv Rocket Golden and MS + BAP (8.87 μM)/1/2 MS + IAA (5.71 μM) in cv. Rocket redstone and MS + IAA(28.54 μM)/Kin (4.65 μM) in cv. Rocket golden for nodal cultures were found to be best suited for multiple shoot induction. Histological studies revealed the presence of shoot meristematic zones and their development into shoot primordia.

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004394   Susheelamma B N;Prithvi Rajeurs M K;Dandin S B;Mogili T;Kesavacharyulu K;Balakrishna R (NO, Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute, Srirampura, Manandavadi Road, Mysore-570 008) : Mulberry breeding for different morpho-physiological traits and crop productivity under different soil moisture levels. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 81-3.

Thailand genetic resources were utilized for the first time in India in the mulberry improvement programme and also CSGRC genetic resources lor specific traits improvement based on mulberry germplasm catalogue. Sixteen genetic resources comprising of exotic introductions of diverse origin, indigenous wild genotypes and released varieties were involved in the hybridization programmes curried out at CSR&TI, Mysore. A total of 32 cross combinations were made and F₁ hybrids of all the 32 cross combinations were transplanted to field screening from the nursery beds. Out of 3043 F₁ hybrids, only 650 F₁ hybrids survived while surpassing the two cycles of natural stress environments in the field screening during May. 2004 and May, 2005. Based on visual selection. 150 hybrids are selected. Further by following screening techniques for morpho-physiological trails and leaf yield, 64 hybrids are selected.

1 illus, 2 tables, 7 ref

004393   Singh S K;Singh A K;Omkar Singh;Kumar K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, T.D.P.G. College, Jaunpur-222 002) : Nicking ability studies for certain quantitative characters in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea l.). Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 21-5.

Nicking ability studies were made line x tester analysis involving twenty one Indian mustard (B. juncea L.) lines viz., SKM-2026, HUM-4, JMM-993, RAURD-921,PRO-2101, RK-01-1, PBR-240, NDR-2(00)4, RN-518,RH-9810, RMM, 9902, DIR-747, JMM-992, RH-9623, SKM-9818, HUM-9901, RGN-48, RK-2001. RGN-13, NDR-9901 and PR 9627 (used as female parents) and three varieties ; Varuna, NDR-8501 and Vardan (used as male parents). The results indicated that both general (additive gene effect) and specific combining ability (non-additive gene effect) were important in the expression of different characters. The parental lines/varieties ; RK-01-1, RH-9623, RAURD-921, NDR-2004, JMM-993, HUM-4 and Varuna were good general combiners for seed yield /plant and namely ; SKM-2026, HUM-4, JMM-993, RAURD-921, NDR-2004, RN-518, RMM-9902. DIR-747, JMM-992 and RGN-13 have good general combining ability for oil content. The best specific combiner were seventeen crosses for seed yield / plant. Where as, 25 F₁ hybrids showed best sca effect for oil content.

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004392   Singh S K;Singh A K;Kumar K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, T.D.P.G. College, Jaunpur-222 002) : Heterosis for yield and yield attributes in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea l. Czern & Coss). Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 43-5.

Heterosis over better parent (BP) and standard variety (SV) for seed yield and yield components in Indian mustard was studied using line x tester analysis involving 21 genetically diverse strains used as lines and three testers. The heterosis over BP and SV for seed yield/plant ranged from -58.44 to 44.57% and -59.51 to 32.88%, respectively. Four crosses RK-01 -1 x NDR-8501, NDR-2004 x Varuna, RH-9623 x Varuna and RH-9623 x NDR-8501 showed significant positive heterobeltiosis as well as standard heterosis for seed yield/plant. These crosses also had significant and positive heterosis for secondary branches and seeds/siliqua would be more desirable to exploit heterosis in Indian mustard.

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004391   Sharma R B;Som Kumar (Botany Dep, Plant Disease Lab, S. D. College, Hathras-204 101) : Alternaria leaf disease of Basella rubra l.. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 311.

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004390   Sharma R B;Som Kumar (Botany Dep, Plant Disease Lab, S.D. College, Hathras-204 101) : Occurrence of vegetable rots in market. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 305-6.

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004389   Sharma M K;Tomar Y S (Botany Dep, J.V. College, Baraut (Baghpat)) : Leaf abscission in Rosa indica as affected by nutrient application. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 307.

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004388   Sharma M K;Tomar Y S (Botany Dep, J.V. College, Baraut) : In vitro studies of growth retardant of leaf senescence in Rosa indica. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 111-12.

The senescence is promoted by exogenous application of the two growth retardants i.e., Abscisic acid (ABA) and Ethylene (ETH). The increase in the senescence with ABA and ETH is surely due to the higher degradation of chlorophylls, proteins and sugars in vitro condition. The degradation of the components is more pronounced with the application of ETH as compare to ABA.

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004387   Sharma K D;Singh B M;Saroop J (Advanced Centre of Hill Bioresources and Biotechnology, CSK Himachal pradesh Agricultural Univ, Palampur-176 062, Email: kml1967@rediffmail.com) : Population structure and genetic relationships among Delphinium species - a fast dwindling genus from Northwestern Himalaya. Curr Sci 2007, 93(3), 386-91.

Delphinium is a medicinally important genus several species of which have been reported from the Himalayan region. Estimated population size and possible erosion of Delphinium species from Himachal Pradesh, northwestern Himalaya. The study elucidated genetic diversity in D. denudatum species phylogenetic relationships among Delphinium species inhabiting the area. The region was reported to inhabit seven Delphinium species. However, only three, namely D. brunonianum, D. vestitum and D. denudatum were sighted during the survey. Other species like D. cashmerianum, D. kolzii, D. pyramidale and D. roylei were not sighted from the reported and surveyed new locations. Among the three species recorded, two, namely D. brunonianum and D. vestitum had small populations of 16 and 150 individuals respectively. These species require proper conservation measures. D. brunonianum was not found in previously reported locations. However, it was sighted at a new location, i.e. Rohtang. Similarly, D. vestitum was also not sighted at one of the previously reported locations. The third species, i.e. D. denudatum exhibited relatively larger populations with density of 1.0 to 5.0 individuals/sq. m and did not have immediate threat. D. denudatum populations in the study area have evolved from two lineages as revealed by RAPD data. RAPD markers also differentiated the three Delphinium species recorded from the region.

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004386   Sesli E (Biolo Edu Dep, Fatih Faculty of Fatih Education Karadeniz Technical Univ, 61335 Sogutlu, Trabzon, Turkey, Email: ertugrulsesli@ktu.edu.tr) : Trace metal contents of higher fungi from Zigana highland in Turkey. Asian J Chem 2007, 19(1), 636-40.

Higher fungus specimens were collected from Zigana Highland at East Black Sea Region of Turkey. The specimens were observed under microscope, photographed and deposited in a personal fungar-ium at the Black Sea Technical University in Trabzon, Turkey. As a result of field and laboratory studies, 14 higher fungus taxa (Lepiota clypeolaria, Leucoagaricus leucothites, Agaricus arvensis, Coprinus atramentarius. Amanita pantherina, Amanita franchetii, Panaeolus acuminatus, Entoloma sinuatum, Entoloma chalybaeum, Clitopilus prunulus, Tricholomopsis rutilans, Tricholoma virgatum, Tricholoma terreum, Tricholoma imbricatum) were recorded. Trace metal contents of specimens were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry after microwave digestion. The results were (in mg/kg) 25-153 iron, 9.3-40.4 copper, 10.6-36 manganese, 30.7-168 zinc, 13.2-330 aluminium and 0.2-9.2 lead.

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004385   Sarma K;Tandon R;Shivanna K R;Mohan Ram H Y (Botany Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007, Email: rjtnd@rediffmail.com) : Snail-pollination in Volvulopsis-nummularium. Curr Sci 2007, 93(6), 826-30.

Pollination is a crucial ecological process that aids sexual reproduction in flowering plants. Although a variety of animals are known to bring about pollen transfer, pollination by snails (malacophily) has remained a rare and obscure phenomenon. Demonstrates the incidence of malacophily in Volvulopsis nummularium (family Convolvulaceae, commonly known as the morning glory family), a prostrate rainy-season weed, which is also visited by honey bees. Flowers open in the morning and last only for half a day. Apis cerana indica and Graceful Awlsnail (Lamellaxis gracile) are the pollinators. Snails are exclusive pollinators on rainy days, when bees are not active. Contrary to the belief that snails are destructive, we found that they do not affect the natural fecundity of V. nummularium. Manual-pollinations indicated that the plants were facultative autogamous. Pollination in V. nummularium by snails and honey bees represents an interesting guild, which is of adaptive significance in achieving high reproductive success without resorting to obligate selfing.

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004384   Salgare S A;Joshi A N (NO, Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd., Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat Maharashtra.) : Whether optimum pollen germination and tube length attained in the same growth medium (sucrose + boric acid) by red missile cultivar of Capsicum frutescens I. and further evidence of a criticism of Nair, Nambudiri and Thomas (1973). 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.

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004383   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.: further evidence of a criticism of P. Maheshwari (1950), Soueges and Crete's (1952), s.c. Maheshwari (1955), Johri (1963), Rembert Bhasin (1971) and Deshpande and Bhasin (1974). Asian J Bio Sci 2007, 2(1-2), 187-90.

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004382   Salgare S A (NO, Salgare Research Foundation Pvt. Ltd. Prathamesh Society, Shivaji Chowk, Karjat Maharashtra.) : Is it monosporic or bisporic development in Cyamopsis psoralioides DC.?: further evidence of a criticism of Maheshwari (1955) and Rembert. 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.

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004381   Saler R S;Jadhav V H;Pushpker Rajni (Botany P.G. Dep, K. T. H. M. College, Nasik - 2) : Tolerence of certain pesticides by nitrogen fixing blue-green algae. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 125-6.

Tolerence of mancozeb, copper oxychloride and BHC by Calothrix (IARI-109), Anabaena (IARI-299), Aulosira (IARI-69) and Nostoc (IARI-194) was studied. Various organisms showed different tolerant limits to the above pesticides. Calothrix did not tolerate 100 μg/ml of BHC while Anabeana 500 μg/ml of mancozeb and copper oxychloride.

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004380   Rizwana Banu M;Muthaiah A R;Ashok S (Plant Breeding & Genetics Dep, Tamil Nadu Agriculture Univ, Agricultural Research Station, Bhavanisagar-638 451) : Heterosis studies in pigeonpea. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 37-38.

Forty-five hybrids of pigeonpea developed through line x tester mating design were evaluated to estimate relative heterosis and hetero beltiosis. Based on the superior heterotic performance, the hybrid combination 1CP 13201 X CO 5 was the best with maximum heterosis for most of the yield attributing characters followed by ICP 11961 x ICP 7118 and ICP 11961 x CO 5 showed higher hetero beltiosis and relative heterosis for most of the yield attributing traits.

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004379   Reshu;Bhargava A K (Botany Dep, Maharaj Singh College, Saharanpur-247 001, Email: reshubhati@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of cadmium toxicity on seed germination and seedling growth of Vigna radiata cv. K-851. Adv Pl Sci 2007, 20(1), 125-6.

Summarizes the effect of cadmium on seed germination and seedling growth of Vigna radiata cv.K-851. This cultiver found to respond differentially to cadmium at 10ppm, 50ppm and 100ppm concentrations, These cadmium concentrations e.g., 50ppm and 100ppm have inhibitory effect while 10ppm concentration of cad mium have promotory effect on seed germination and seedling growth of Vigna radiata cv. K-851.

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004378   Reddy P G (Botany P.G. Dep, Padmashri Vikhe Patil College, Pravaranagar-Loni, Dist. Ahmednagar-413 713) : Soil, rhizosphere and rhizosplane mycoflora of Trigonella foenumgraecum L.. Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 158-60.

A comparative study of the soil, rhizosphere and rhizoplane mycoflora of Trigonell foenumgraecum. L. was done at different stage viz: seedling, vegetative, flowering, and harvesting. A total of 35 species belonging to 19 genera were isolated. Most of the fungi were found to be common in rhizosphere and rhizoplane regions. Qualitatively and quntitatively mycoflora were more in the rhizosphere particularly at the vegetative stage. Mycoflora varied at different stages of plant growth. Members of deuteromycetes dominated the flora in all samples.

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004377   Patil N N (Botany Dep. Chandmal Tarachand Bora, College, Shirur, Dist. Pune-412 210) : Effect of arbuscular mycorrhiza and vermicompost on yield and nutrient content of jowar (Sorghum vulgare Pers.). Bioinfolet 2007, 4(2), 111-13.

The present investigation deals with interaction between Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (G bagyarajii and G fasciculatum) and Vermicompost on yield and nutrient content of Jowar (Sorghum vulgare Pers.) grains. The plants inoculated with G bagyarajii + G. fasciculatum + Vermicompost had significantly higher stover and grain yield. There was also significant increase in nutrient contents like N, P, Zn, Cu, and Fe. The increase in yield and nutrient content of Jowar grains was proportional to increase in spore count and percentage root colonization of Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (AM). The available P and N from AM inoculated soil after harvest was less than uninoculated soil which indicated that Arbuscular Mycorrhiza have helped in mobilization of P and N from soil to plant.

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004376   Olli S;Guruprasad L;Kirti P B (Plant Sciences Dep, Hyderabad Univ, Hyderabad-500 046, Email: pbks1@uohyd.ernet.in) : Characterization of defensin (Tfgd2) from Trigonella foenum-graecum. Curr Sci 2007, 93(3), 365-8.

Defensins are small cysteine-rich peptides with a size of 5-10 kDa, and some of them exhibit antifungal activity. Cloned and sequenced a 219 bp codnig region of the cDNA of a defensin from Trigonella foenum-graecum, designated as Tfgd2 using primers designed on the basis of a defensin, AlfAFP from Medicago sativa and reverse transcription-PCR. Cloned the 701 bp genomic region of the defensin that comprised two exons and one long intron. The deduced amino acid sequence of Tfgd2 was similar to AlfAFP, except for two amino acid substitutions. It has 50% homology with the antifungal defensin Psd1 from Pisum sativum, whose NMR solution structure has been determined. The mature peptide has 45 amino acids, while the signal peptide comprised 27 amino acids. Southern analysis of the genomic DNA blot indicated that the defensins appear to be an oligo-gene family with at least two members in Trigonella. Purified peptide from Escherichia coli expression displayed inhibitory activity against broad-spectrum fungal pathogens, Rhizoctonia solani and Fusarium moniliforme.

3 illus, 2 tables, 18 ref