018208   Parkash V;Sharma S;Kaushik S;Aggarwal A (NO, Rain Forest Research Institute (ICFRE), Jorhat-785 001, Assam, ) : Effect of soil sterilization on bio-inoculants activity in establishment of Acacia catechu willd. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 51-6.

Experiment in pot conditions was carried out to see the effect of soil sterilization on bio-inoculants activity in establishment and growth of Acacia catechu Willd. Mixed VAM showed maximum increase in height followed by Glomus mosseae. Glomusfasciculatum. Rhizobium sp. and Trichodemza viride in non-sterilized soil The mycorrhizal spore number and percentage mycorrhizal colonization in roots and P content were maximum in all treatments as compared to control in non-sterilized soil Presence of nodules was more in G. mosseae treatment and absent in T viride treatment as well as in control in non-sterilized soil In sterilized soil also mixed VAM showed maximum effect on all growth parameters undertaken over all treatments as well as control but it was low than non-sterilized soil Presence of nodules was also lower in sterilized soil in comparison to non- sterilized soil Nodules were absent in control and T viride treatments in both sterilized and non sterilized soils. All parameters studied in sterilized soil, viz., increase in height, root length, fresh and dry shoot weight, fresh and dry root weight, presence of nodules, VAM spore number and percentage colonization in roots and P content were lower than non-sterilized soil.

1 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

018207   Parimala Devi R;Joseph R;Vijayakumari (Botany Dep, Avinashilingam Deemed University, Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu)) : Comparative analysis on antibacterial activity of Jatropha curcas, J. glandulifera and J.gossypifolia. Crop Res 2008, 35(1-2), 135-7.

Jatropha species are used in our traditional system of medicines in curing different ailments. The present study was focussed on the comparative analysis on antibacterial activity of Jatropha curcas, J. glandulifera and J. gossypifolia. These plants were screened for their antibacterial aspects against the three species of bacterial strains, namely, Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Antibacterial activities were assessed by Agar well diffusion method. Among the bacterial strains, B. subtilis showed higher sensitivity to petroleum ether extracts of J. curcas and J. gossypifolia when compared to the other strains and extracts.

3 tables, 7 ref

018206   Owoyemi J M;Kayode J (Forestry and Wood Technology Dep, Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria) : The effects of chromated copper arsenate and creosote oil on the resistance of Gmelina arborea (Roxb) to termite attack. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect B 2008, 27(1-2), 19-27.

Resistance of Gmelina arborea wood treated with chromated copper arsenate {CCA), and creosote oil (CREO) was investigated. Gmelina arborea wood samples, aged fifteen years were treated with CCA (4%, 3% and 2% concentration), and CREO (undiluted, 1:1 kerosene, and 1:3 kerosene mixture) using cold dipping method. The effect of cold dipping on the absorption of these preservatives by Gmelina wood was also examined. 111e effectiveness of these preservatives on Gmelina arborea wood was carried out through field exposure test for 36 months (3 years). Weekly visual observations were taken' to determine the effect of time on the exposure of samples pieces to termites attack. Field exposure test for the varied levels of concentration of preservative treatments for Gmelina arborea showed that the wood treated with CCA 4%, 3% and 2% concentrations were able to resist termite attack for 36 months with no visible. scar, while CREO treated sample were moderately resistant. Analysis of variance of the test showed that there was a significant difference (p< 0.05) in the ability of CCA to resist termite attack for the 36-month period while CREO was effective only for 12 months.

4 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

018205   Nath N;Rao S;Ghosh S;Das A (Botany Dep, Goalpara College, Goalpara-783 101) : Major weed flora of wheat and rice fields of Goalpara district, Assam. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(4), 1554-6.

Detailed study was done in wheat and rice fields of Goalpara district (Assam, India). It is important to note that farmers sometimes have to face dangerous problems for the dominance of some weed species. So it is equalIy important to study the weed flora of a region. The study revealed that in wheat fields 25 species and in rice fields 23 species were associated with these two cultivated crops. The dominant weeds of wheat fields were Xanthium strumarium (7.91), Spilanthes paniculata (5.82), and Ricinus communis (5.18). Whereas in rice fields the dominant weeds were Marsilea quadrifolia (4.81), Salvinia cuculata (4.98) and Alternanthera philoxerides (4.81).

2 tables, 5 ref

018204   Nath N;Rao S;Das A (Botany Dep, Goalpara College, Goalpara-783 101) : Some rare endemic and endangered plants from Goalpara District, Assam. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(4), 1478-9.

Due to tremendous pressure on environment many plants are getting endangered. There are many rare and endemic species also. It is important to conserve the plant resources as a whole and the rare endemic endangered species in particular. Goalpara district is rich by its plant resources but the district is under tremendous pressure due to various developmental activities. This study recorded such endangered species of the district so that necessary steps can be taken in proper time.

2 tables, 9 ref

018203   Mridha D;Saha D;Das P A (NO, Bharat Technology, Banitable, Uluberia, Howrah-711 316) : Antipyretic activity of the bark of Parkinsonia aculeata. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(1), 69-72.

Extraction of the bark of Parkinsonia aculeata (Wealth of India, Raw Materials), family Leguminosae was carried out using benzene, chloroform, ethanol and distilled water in succession. The extracts were evaluated for antipyretic activity. The chloroform extract showed significant antipyretic activity.

1 tab, 15 ref

018202   Megala J;Geetha A (Biochemistry Dep, School of Life Science, Vels University, Pallavaram-600 117) : Preliminary study on phytochemical screening and evaluation of antioxidant property of aqueous fruit extract of Pithecellobium dulce. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(1), 73-86.

Antioxidant activity of aqueous fruit extract of Pithecellobium dulce (AEPD) was investigated for its free radical scavenging activity by adopting various in vitro models of free radical production. Phytochemical screening revealed that the extract possess tannins, saponins, fiavonoids, terpenoids, cardiac glycosides, alkaloids and phenols. The extract was investigated for its antioxidant activity using 1, 1-Diphenyl -2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH), nitric oxide, superoxides, hydroxyl radicals, lipid peroxides scavenging activities. Reducing power, total antioxidants and of total phenolic contents were also determined in the aqueous fruit extract. AEPD showed 41.84% inhibition on DPPH radicals at 160μg/ml.The maximum percentage inhibition by AEPD on the generation of lipid peroxides was found to be 44.11. Moreover, AEPD showed maximum (26%) inhibition on nitric oxide generation and was also found to scavenge the superoxide radicals generated by PMSINADH-NBT system with IC₅₀ value of 2.44μg/ml when compared to standard curcumin of IC₅₀ value of 5μg/ml. AEPD was also found to inhibit the hydroxyl radical generated by Fenton's reaction, where the IC₅₀ value of AEPD was found to be 554.08μ/ml when compared with standard mannitol with its IC₅₀ value of 532.6μg/ml. AEPD was found to possess moderate reducing property when compared to the standard ascorbic acid. The measurement oftotal phenolic content by Folin-ciocalteu's phenol reagent indicated that one gram of AEPD contains 10.45mg equivalent of gallic acid. The results obtained in the present study indicate that the AEPD can be a potential source of natural antioxidant.

6 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

018201   Mallick P (Post Graduate Dep of Botany, Hooghly Mohsin College, Chinsura, Hooghly, West Bengal) : Desmid flora of India-I, genus Netrium (Nageli) itzigson and rothe (mesotaeniaceae, desmidiales, conjugatophyceae) from West Bengal. Bionature 2009, 29(2), 57-61.

Present communication deals with seven taxa of Netrium (Nageli)) Itzigson and Rothe. viz. N. digitus (Ehrenberg) Itzigson et Rothe var. digitus, N. digitus var. rhomboideum Gronblad, N. digitus var. scottii Prescott 1. minus Prescott, Croasdale & Vinyard, N. digitus var. rectum (Turner) Krieger and N. elongatum Ohtani. Of the above five taxa, four taxa are reported for the first time from West Bengal, and latter two being recorded probablY'for the first time from India. Two taxa viz. N. bengalicum sp. nov., and N. indicum sp. novo are proposed as new to science.

19 ref

018200   Malathy N S;Deepa K R (Botany Dep, PSGR Krishnammal College for Women, Coimbatore-641 004, Email: malathy.ns@gmail.com) : Deterioration of fabric paints by two species of Aspergillus, Tham and Raper. Res J biol Sci 2008, 1(1), 58-60.

Aspergillus jlavus and Aspergillus jumigatus were isolated from spoilt black and yellow fabric paints respectively. The capacity ofthese two fungi to utilize fabric paints for their growth was studied by inoculating them on fresh paints and on Czapex-Dox medium with and without sucrose but containing 50, 250 and 500 ppm concentrations of black and yellow fabric paints. Both fungi could grow to some extent directly on fresh black and yellow fabric paints. In Czapek-Dox medium with sucrose and 50ppm concentration of either black or yellow fabric paints they grew well and sporulated profusely. In Czapek-Dox medium without sucrose but with different concentrations of paints as carbon source the fungi showed slightly more growth than the control indicating that they utilize the chemicals present in paints. Zinc oxide, a common fungistatic substance commonly used in paints was found to be ineffective in controlling A.jlavus and Ajumigatus at the concentration routinely used in paints.

1 table, 11 ref

018199   Lone F A;Wafai B A (Botany Dep, University of Kashmir, Srinagar-190 006, Email: falonebotany@yahoo.com) : Chromosome conspectus and cytogenetic appraisal of some commercial cultivars of cherry (Prunus avium L., P.cerasus L.) and plum (P.domestica L.) using a partially modified staining technique. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 29-34.

Based on x = 8, the commercIal cultivars of cherry (Prunus avium) viz; Awal Number GIlas, Double GIlas, Gole GIlas, Maklunali Gilas, Mishri Gilas and Tontal Gilas grown in Kashmir are diploid (2n = 2 x = 16), Aalich - the sour cherry (Pcerasus) is tetraploid (2n = 4x = 32) and plums, DachAer, Wangan Aer and Sabni Aer (P domestica) are hexaploid (2n = 6x = 48). The tetra- and hexaploid cultivars follow typical diploid like meiosis, undergoing homologous pairing into bivalents which segregate without error at A 1. Nature of polyploidy of these cultivars has been discussed. cvs. Gole Gilas (sweet cherry) and Aalich (sour cherry), present evidence of structural hybridity in the form of anaphase chromosome lagging and formation of abnormal tetrads and polysporads following A II, though much less in frequency. Cytomictic behaviour and in situ pollen germination reduce pollen fertility in some cultivars while cv. Jungli Aer and Silver (both plums) are totally male sterile. These chromosome studies were possible only by partially modifying the known techniques which while suppressing acetocarrnine staining of the cytoplasm (so characteristic of rosaceous PMCs), enhanced visibility of stained chromosomes which are too small to permit detailed study. The information generated is of immense value to cherry and plum breeders.

3 tables, 49 ref

018198   Kurlapkar D D;Khandekar V P;Jadhav D N (Dr. N D Patil Mahavidyalaya, , Malkapur Dist. Kolhapur, Maharashtra) : Tuberous, rhizomatous and bulbous flora from western ghats ranges around Satara (M.S.) India. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect B 2008, 27(1-2), 39-44.

Satara is a district place located at the foot hills of Western Ghats in the western region of Maharashtra. Eight hills located around the Satara were studied to explore the tuberous, rhizomatous and bulbous flora. 56 species of rhizomatous, tuberous, and bulbous angiosperms were recorded from these hills. Amongst these 14. species belonged to Dicotyledons and 42 to Monocotyledons. The dicot flora was dominated by the Asclepidiaceae with Genus Ceropegin contributing six species. The tuberous, rhizomatous and bulbous taxa of Liliaceae dominated amongst monocots followed by Scitaminaceae and Orchidaceae. Amongst the hills studied the maximum TRB species were recorded from Kas hill with 32 species (57.14 %) while least contribution only with 3 species was made by Sajjangad hill. Aponoge/on snlaretlsis is rare and endangered species recorded during present investigation from the Kas hills .

1 illus, 10 ref

018197   Kumar D;Rajput S K;Deepika (Botany Dep, Hindu College, Moradabad-244 001, Email: dr.deepak_kumar@yahoo.co.in) : Salinity induced oxidative damage and antioxidant responses in roots of urdbean. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(4), 1638-41.

Investigation was undertaken to evaluate the effect of salinity on growth and dry weight accumulation in urdbean Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper cv PU-35, along with an analysis of the changes induced by salts on the antioxidant enzyme status in the roots. Low concentrations of salts were observed to be slightly promotory while excess of salinity levels inhibited root, shoot growth and reduced dry matter accumulation. The activity of antioxidant enzymes varied with the levels of salinity. A decrease in malondialdehyde (MDA) amount and stimulation of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (PER), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) was examined in seedlings exposed to 4, 8, 12, 16 and 20 dS/m, while catalase (CAT) activity showed significant decrease above 4 dS/m. Excess of salinity induced lipid peroxidation as well as modified the activity of defense enzymes SOD, PER, CAT, PPO and PAL.

2 tables, 12 ref

018196   Kumar D (Botany Dep, Hindu College, Moradabad-244 001, Email: dr.deepak_kumar@YAHOO.CO.IN) : Amino acid metabolism in berseem cultivars during salinity stress. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(4), 1642-5.

Salt tolerant (Wardan) and salt susceptible (BL-10) cultivars of berseem were evaluated for amino acids in relation to imposed salinity stress. The results revealed that total amino acids decreased significantly with increasing levels of salinity except proline and glycine. Wardan had a higher concentration of glycine, cystine, leucine, lysine, glutamic acid and proline compared to BL-10. The contents of arginine, threonine. cystine. leucine. lysine and glutamic acid decreased progressively with increasing levels of salinity but increased with advancement of plant age. Greater accumulation of arginine and threonine is registered in BL-10 as compared to Wardan.

2 tables, 4 ref

018195   Kiran Mayi P;Babitha B (Biochemistry Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna University, Nagarjuna Nagar, Guntur-522 510) : Effect of high temperature on spectral properties of phycobilisomes of Synechococcus 6301 under in vitro conditions. Int J Pharmac biol Sci 2010, 4(1), 103-6.

To characterize the high temperature induced alterations in phycobilisomes, an attempt was made to analyze the spectral properties both under in vivo and in vitro conditions. For in vivo studies the spheroplasts isolated from synechococcus cells were used, where as for in vitro studies the phycobilisomes were isolated from spheroplasts by using sucrose density gradient. The increase in temperature caused drastic decrease in fluorescence intensity indicating the alterations of phycobilisomes. To prove this high temperature effect under in vitro conditions phycopbilisomes were isolated after giving high temperature treatment caused decrease in the absorption of phycocyanin and induced red shift towards the red region of the spectrum by 3 nm.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

018194   Kaur N;Kaur N P (Botany Dep, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: navjyot_grewal@yahoo.com ) : Effect of cadmium on growth and antioxidant enzyme activities in broccoli. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(4), 1557-60.

Vegetable crops like cauliflower and broccoli are occasionally grown in heavy metal contaminated soils on the outskirts of industrial cities. Among the various toxic metals, cadmium (Cd) is of particular concern because it is readily absorbed and accumulated in plants, thus increasing the potential for contamination of food chain. The present investigation was thus designed to study the partitioning of Cd among various parts of broccoli plants grown in Cd treated soil (10 and 100 mg Cd/kg soil). The effect of Cd on photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes was also studied. Plants accumulated larger portion of Cd in the shoots followed by roots and heads. Photosynthesis was adversely affected in Cd-treated plants due to reduced leaf area accompanied by decline in chlorophyll content and lowered Hill reaction activity in leaves. However, activity of antioxidant.enzymes such as catalase (EC 1.11.1.6) and peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.7) was increased in Cd-treated plants as compared to the control possibly to combat the oxidative stress caused by cd.

4 tables, 17 ref

018193   Jijeesh C M;Seethalakshmi K K;Beena V B; Raveendran V P (NO, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur-680 653, Email: seetha@kfri.org) : Recent flowering of an endemic bamboo-Pseudoxytenanthera monadelpha (Thw.) soderstrom and ellis in Munnar, India. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 35-9.

Pseudoxytenanthera monadelpha (Thw.) Soderstrom and Ellis, a bamboo endemic to South India, flowered gregariously in Rajamalai, Eravikulam National Park, Kerala during 2006 to 07. The original morphological description of this species is based on the herbarium specimens collected from Sri Lanka during 1864. The later publications on flowering, have not described its reproductive biology and seed set. The present investigations were conducted to study the floral morphology, anthesis, pollination, pollen germination and post flowering behaviour of this species. The inflorescence was a large leafy panicle consisting of spikelets clustered at the nodes. Florets were dichogamous, protogynous and closed. There were six stamens. The ovary is globose, broad at the end. The flower opening occurred between 6.00 am to 12.00 noon. Pollen grains showed 92 to 95 % viability with acetocarrnine (1 %) staining. Pollination was anemophilous. The absence of seeds in the fallen floral-mass and the absence of seedlings below flowered clumps after the pre-monsoon showers indicated lack of seed formation in the current locality. The present flowering of P. monadelpha gave an opportunity to record the reproductive biology of this species. However, absence of seed set and regeneration of the species necessitate the measures to conserve this bamboo species which is useful to local people and also help in soil stabilisation in the hilly area from extinction in the current locality.

1 illus, 3 tables, 18 ref

018192   Gupta P;Singh T (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: prenita_gupta@rediffmail.com) : Bottle gourd seed infection by Fusarium oxysporum schltdl. and its role in disease development. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 57-60.

Bottle gourd [Lagena ria siceraria (Mol. Standl.)] seeds naturally infected with Fusarium oxysporum was characterized on the basis of symptoms of white crust on seed surface. The infected seeds appeared with or without white crust. The incidence of symptomatic seeds in samples of Rajasthan varied from 1.25-26.75%. But on inoculation, the pathogen was isolated from 33% samples with 1-42% incidence in chlorine pretreated seeds. Location of pathogen was studied in both asymptomatic and symptomatic seeds. Mycelium in asymptomatic seeds was extra-embryonal and confined to seed coat only; but it occurred in seed coat, aleurone layer, cotyledon and embryonal axis of symptomatic seed. The extraembryonal infection resulted in transmission of disease from the inoculum present in seed coat to other part of the seedling; whereas, intraembryonal infection mostly caused pre- and post~emergence losses.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

018191   Gayathri G;Babu V (Botany Dep, University College, Thiruvananthapuram-695 034, Email: babu.botane@gmail.com) : Pharmacognostic analysis of azima tetracantha lam. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 47-50.

Azima tetracantham Lam., family Salvadoraceae, is used as food and herbal medicine as stimulant and appetizer. In remote villages of Kerala, this herb is also used as anti inflanunatory and diuretic. Pharmacognosy is a tool to identify the plant by the extracted phytochemical(s). Macroscopic, microscopic and also dry powder analysis, behavior of the powder in different solvents/reagents facilitates the correct identification. Good medicinal practices in neutraceutical and pharmaceutical industries warrants the correct identification of the dried plants or powdered drug which detects and prevents the adulteration( s), if any The challenge ahead of this investigation is to authenticate the therapeutic efficacy and safety of the plant, using standard methods

4 illus, 5 tables, 7 ref

018190   Gawai D U;Deshpande R P;Lonkar G D (Botany Dep, Microbiology and Biotechnology, N.E.S. Science College, Nanded) : Effect of pectolytic enzymes on clarification of selected fruit juices. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 593-6.

One of the problem encountered in preparation of fruit juice is cloudiness due to presence of pectin which is difficult to remove except by enzymatic epectinizationr. In the present investigations, five different fungal species were evaluated for clarification of fruit juices of pomegranate, sweet orange and pineapple. All the five fungi- Aspergillus niger, Curvularia lunata, Cladosporium dadosporoides, Rhizopus stolonifer, and Penidllium expansum were found to be pectolytic enzyme producers in vitro. The use of crude pectolytic enzymes resulted in significant clarification of fruit juices of pomegranate, sweet orange and pineapple. The pectolytic enzymes of Aspergillus niger gave more clarification as compared to pectolytic enzymes of Curvularia lunata, Cladosporium dadosporoides, Rhizopus stolonifer, and Penidllium expansum in all the three fruit juices tested.

1 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

018189   Er F;Saglam C;Gumuscu A;Ozcan M M (University of Selcuk, Cumra Vocational College, Konya, Turkey) : Determination of chemical properties and fatty and composition of the evening primrose (Oenothera biennis L.) seeds growing in the arid conditions. Bull pure appl Sci-Sect B 2009, 28(1-2), 9-20.

This study has been carried out between 2007 to 2008 years in order to determine the productivity potential in Cumra (Konya) climate conditions and the definite contents of the evening primrose known as the medicinal plants. The mineral contents of evening primrose were established by using Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES). Ca (23267.8 μg/g), Fe (475.21 pg/g), K (21350.8 μg/g), Mg (4388.9 μg/g) and P (21116.7 μg/g) contents of plant sample were found very high compared with results that of values of soil samples. Soil sample contained 22050.0 μg/g Ca, 848.2 μg/g K, 1041 μg/g Mg and 13190 μg/g P. EC, pH, CaCO3 and organic matter values of soil sample were established as 15 mmhos, 7.2, 22.0% and 0.96%, respectively. Plant height, branch number per plant, seed yield and 1000 seed weight of primrose during both growing and harvest period were determined as 135 cm, 18 unit, 85 unit, 106 g, 584.1 kg/ha and 0.2 g, respectively. The fatty acid composition and oil content of evening primrose oil was determined by gas chromatography. Mean seed oil content of primrose was found as 7.6% (dw). Linoleic acid (67.4%) was present in the highest concentration, followed by oleic (18.3%), palmitic (6.7%) and gamma-linolenic acids (GLA) (5.3%).

3 tables, 36 ref

018188   Deepak Kumar;Kumar P;Alka (Botany Dep, Hindu College, Moradabad-244 001, Email: dr.deepak_kumar@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of salinity on growth and biochemical parameters of berseem (Trifolium alexandrinum L.). Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1), 92-4.

Eleven genotypes of berseem (Trifolium alexandhnum L.) were evaluated under different levels of salinity (control, 8.0 and 12.0 dS/m) created by using salts viz. NaCl, NaHCO₃,Na₂SO₄ and CaCl₂ for 10 days after moistening the seeds for primary test (screening) on percentage germination and dry weight of seedlings. Out of these two most tolerant (JHB-146 and Wardan) and two most susceptible (BL-10 and JB-5) varieties were further investigated for physiological basis of salt stress tolerance. At maximum salinity stress (12.0 dS/m), there were comparatively more accumulation of sugars, chlorophylls and free amino acids along with higher catalase activity.

1 table, 10 ref

018187   Chimwamurombe P M;Mapaure I;Haufiku M S (Biological Sciences Dep, Namibia Univ, P. Bag 13301, Windhoek, Namibia, Email: pchimwa@unam.na) : DNA-based fungal identification: first report of double infection of Alternaria tenuissima and Ampelomyces species on malformed pods of Acacia karoo in Namibia. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(3), 665-9.

Acacia karoo tree species has a wide distribution in Namibia. It is generally well adapted to the dry conditions that are present in Namibia. In addition to Acacia karoo, Acacia mellifera, Acacia hebeclada. Acacia erioloba. Acacia luderitzii and Acacia hereroense are some of the commonest species. These species have a variety of uses, from industrial, medicinal, ornamental to ecological uses. Recently pods of Acacia karoo were observed to be malformed leading to decline of seed production of the trees. In addition, the malformed pods appeared in a variety of morphologies. The objective of this investigation was to pinpoint the identity of the causal agents of pod malformation as a dedicated first step towards design of effective control mechanisms to this disease that blocks the reproduction step of Acacia karoo life cycle. In order to determine the causal agents, fresh malformed pods from Acacia karoo, were sampled and single spore cultures were made. Pure cultures of two fungi were made from single spores. DNA was extracted from these pure cultures and used in an internal transcribed spacer (ITS) PCR used ITS1 and ITS 2 primers. The PCR products were purified and sequenced. The sequences were used in BLAST searches to interrogate the Genbank for sequence similarity. High sequence similarity of 100% was obtained with Alternaria tenuissima and a similarity of 98% was observed with Ampelomyces species. From this work we can conclude that Alternaria tenuissima and Ampelomyces sp. are associated with Acacia karoo pod malformation. A new question again arises which of the two fungi is the culprit for malformation or is there double causation or synergistic interaction of the two fungi that leads to pod malformation. This can be answered by experimentation that is guided by Koch's postulates. Furthermore, the identity of insect vectors that carry the fungi from one flower to the other need to be determined.

3 illus, 1 table, 7 ref

018186   Bhunia D;Mondal A K (Plant Taxonomy & Biosystematics Laboratory, Botany & Forestry Dep, Vidyasagar Univ, Midnapore-721 102, Email: amalcaebotvu@gmail.com) : Exploration to aquatic ethnomedicinal plants of paschim Medinipur district, West Bengal. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1), 64-70.

District Paschim Medinipur mostly covered with tribal people specially in Jhargram subdivision. The heavy rainfall, high humidity and moderate temperature, are collectively responsible for rich amalgamation of different aquatic medicinal plant types with vast stretches of water bodies existing in this district added to rich aquatic plant diversity. About 75 medicinal plants which were collected and identified botanically, documented alphabetically along with their family names, tribal or local names, method of application of their parts and ethnomedicinal important particularly consulting with tribal people.

1 table, 11 ref

018185   Bazhina E V;Kvitko O V;Muratova E N (NO, V N Sukachev Institute of Forest of Siberian Branch of the Russian Aca, Russia, Email: genetics@ksc.krasn.ru) : Peculiarities of Abies sibirica ledeb, pollen development in the West Sayan Mountains. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 41-6.

Abies sibirica Ledeb. pollen development have been studied. The researches have shown that pattern of pollen development in A. sibirica healthy and stressed trees has been found to be largely the same as in other coniferous species. There is a tendency toward decreasing pollen size in stressed trees. Pollen irregularities were found in 0.6-2.3% healthy and 0.7-9.2% in stressed trees. The research of A. sibirica allows us to assume that pollen development disturbances are responsible for sterility of stressed tree pollen.

7 illus, 1 table, 30 ref

018184   Arya S;Rathi N;Arya I D (NO, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun-248 195, Email: aryaid@gmail.com) : Micropropagation protocol for Glycyrrhiza glabra L. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 71-6.

Glycyrrhiza glabra L., liquorice and licoriceis, is a small perennial shrub of family Fabaceae. The medicinal properties of Glycyrrhiza are attributed to the acidic constituent called glycyrrhizic acid present in its roots as a secondary metabolite. It shows antipyretic, antidiabetic, analgesic, diuretics, laxatives, demulcent, emollient, expectorant and anti-cancer properties. Bud break response in its nodal segments was achieved within three weeks of inoculation on MS medium supplemented with 2.0-4.0mg/1 BAP. 85-90%. One to two shoots were produced on MS medium supplemented with 2.0mg/1 BAP. The regenerated shoots were isolated and subcultured on MS medium supplemented with BAP (1.0-5.0mg/I), Kn (1.0-5.0mg/l) and adenine sulphate (0-100mg/l) for in vitro shoot multiplication. 8-9 folds shoot multiplication rate of 8 to 9 fold was observed on MS medium supplemented with 2.0mg/1 BAP, 0.5mg/1 Kn and 50mg/l adenine sulphate. Rooting of these in vitro raised shoots was observed on half strength MS medium supplemented with 0.1-4.0 mg/l 1AA. Tissue culture raised plantlets were hardened and acclimatized in mist chamber and shade house conditions for two months.

1 illus, 5 tables, 21 ref

018183   Arif M;Singh R K;Aslam M;Paney K L;Ahmed Z (NO, Defence Institute of Bio Energy Research, Goraparao, P O -Arjunpur, Haldwani-263 139, Nainital) : Micrografting of in Vitro cultured shoots of Pisum sativum L onto potted root stocks. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(2), 157-61.

Feasibility studies of micrografting of in vitro regenerated shoot tips of pea (Pisum sativum L.) cv. Arkel were carried out. In vivo germinated seeds of pea were used as root stocks. Different sterilization methods and embryo culture have been experimented to raise in vitro shoot tips for micrografting. Compatibility and growth activity of the shoot tips of pea taken from in vitro cultured embryo, onto root stocks germinated in the pot were investigated. Shoot tips from cultured embryos of pea micrografted onto in vitro grown juvenile root stocks resulted in the restoration of shoot bud proliferation. Compatibility and growth between micrografted shoot tips and root stocks were studied. Hardening problems were not encountered with the establishment of micro grafted plants in soil. The recovery of micro scions was slow, however, these micrografts completed normal life cycle up to fruiting. Use of micrografting proved an useful technique.

1 illus, 5 tables, 20 ref

018182   Agostini K;Sazima M;Tozzi M G D A;Martins E R F (Universidade Metodista de Piracicaba, , Rodovia do Acucar, Km 156, Piracicaba, SP, Brasil, 13400-911, Email: kagostini@unimep.br) : Microsporogenesis and pollen morphology of Mucuna japira azevedo, agostini & sazima and M. urens (L.) Medikus. Phytomorphology 2009, 59(1-2), 61-9.

Low pollen quality can be associated with irregularities of species reproduction. Microsporogenesis, chromosome number, meiotic behaviour and meiotic index were investigated in Mucunajapira and M. urens in order to ascertain whether pollen could limit fertilization events, once M.japira shows low fruit set (2.7%), while in M. urens the fruit set is much higher (11.0%), thus a high rate of fruit abortion occurs in M. japira. Both species have dimorphous anthers, and the timing of microsporogenesis and pollen release varies in the two sets of stamens. The microspore mother cells are vacuolated, with granulose cytoplasm, prominent nucleus and nucleolus and a callose wall. Tetrads are tetrahedric with a thick callose wall. Mature pollen grains are tricolpate, the exine sculpture is reticulated and its viability is 92.2% for M. japira and 97.8% for M.urens. The chromosome number of these species is n=11, being this the first report for both of them, and further this number corroborates the position of Mucuna in Phaseoleae. The most frequent abnormalities recorded at the tetrad stage of both species were pentads, empty/or irregular tetrads with cells of different sizes. The meiotic index for both species is above 90. Once microsporogenesis, pollen morphology and pollen grain viability are normal and similar in M. japira and in M. urens these features are not related with the high rate of fruit abortion of M. japira.

4 illus, 1 table, 54 ref

018181   Aberomand M (Biochemistry Dep, Ahwaz Jondi Shapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran, Email: aberumand@yahoo.com) : Total protein contents in leaves of some plants. Biochem Cell Archs 2009, 9(2), 153-4.

The objective of the present study was to analyze the nutritional composition of nine selected plants including Lote Tree (Zizyphus Desf), Blue gum tree (Eucalyptus globulus), White-Willow (Salix alba), Myrtle (Myrtus communis), Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Cordia (Cordia myxa L), Date-Palm (Phoenix dactylifera), sugar cane (Saccharum officinarum) and Rosebay (Nerium oleander). The results show that Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Myrtle (Myrtus communis) and Cordia (Cordia myxa L.) contain highest protein (82.6%,63.3% and 42.7%) respectively.

1 illus, 5 ref

017242   Vasudeva S P;Sareen T S (Himachal Pradesh Forest Dep, , Shimla, Himachal Pradesh) : Pollination biology in Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. (Papilionodeae; Leguminosae). Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1165-8.

Dalbergia sissoo flowers were pollinated by honey bees, beetles, butterflies and thrips. These insects except thrips, primarily affect cross-pollination, but self-pollinations were also caused by them. Thrips mainly brought about self-pollinations as they were mostly confined inside the flowers. The anthesis, dehiscence of anthers, stigma receptivity and pollinator activity showed synchronised diurnal rhythm which ensures effective pollination.

11 ref

017241   Tidke J A;Nagarkar S S;Rokade S S (Botany Dep, Sant Gadge Baba Amravati Univ, Amravati) : Biochemical analysis of pollen grains of Ipomoea fistulosa L.. Indian J Aerobiol 2009, 22(1-2), 17-20.

Pollen grains contain number of metabolites which are responsible for physiological and metabolical activities. Pollen grains release the proteins, free amino acids and other chemical metabolites at different rates and quantities. The differences in these metabolites may be responsible for the control of rate and type of allergic reactions caused by pollen grains. Ipomoeafistulosa L. is a known allergenic pollen producing plant from Amravati region. Quantitative biochemical estimation in the form of carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, free amino acids, ash and moisture was done from the crude extract of the pollen of Ipomoea fistulosa L. During the present study, the pollen grains were found to be containing 1.58% of total reducing sugar, 3.72% of carbohydrates, 2.35% of nitrogen, 14.7% of crude protein, 0.84% of soluble protein, 0.72% of free amino acid, 1.10% of lipid, 8.57% of moisture and 2.74% of ash. The pollen grains were examined histochemically to assess qualitatively starch and lipid contents. The free amino acids and sugars were identified by thin layer chromatography. The protein profile was studied by SDS-PAGE analysis.

1 illus, 2 tables, 25 ref

017240   Sunil Kumar;Singh N (Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, Botany Dep, Kurukshetra Univ, Kurukshetra-136 119, Email: sunya84@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro propagation of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni : an important medicinal sweet herb. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1A), 459-64.

Rapid propagation system was developed for medicinally important plant species Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni under in vitro conditions. Internodal explants from mature plant of S. rebaudiana were taken and cultured after surface sterilization. Calli was induced on Murashige and Skoog's medium supplemented with various concentration of auxins (2, 4-D, NAA, IAA) and cytokinins (BAP, Kn) individually and in combination. Calli was sub-cultured for indirect regeneration on MS medium fortified with BAP and 2,4-D. The in vitro raised shoots (>15-20 cm) were excised and transferred on half strength MS medium fortified with 1.0 mg/liter) IBA to produce roots. These rooted shoots were successfully acclimatized in pots containing sterilized soil : sand (1:1). After four weeks of implantation, these plantlets were finally transferred to field conditions. Seventy five percent of them survived.

1 illus, 3 tables, 33 ref

017239   Soman G S (Botany Dep, Maharashi Dayanand College, Parel, Mumbai-400 012) : Newly investigated mosses of Lonavala. Vidarbha J Sci 2010, 5(2), 76-8.

Preliminary study of mosses of Western Ghats was initiated by Sedwick (1909-1911), Dixon (1909), BruM (1931). G.T. Dabhade studied mosses of Khandala and Mahableshwar (1998). It has been observed that some species of mosses are newly investigated from this region viz. Atrichum undulatum Hedw, Anacolia sinesis Broth, Brotherella nictans Broth and Hydrogonium dedcoyli Jaeg. Their morphotaxonomical and ecological aspects are described.

11 ref

017238   Singh R;Rathore M;Mishra G P;Meetul Kumar; Singh R;Ahmed Z (Defence Institute of High Altitude Research (DRDO), , Leh, Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir) : Adventitious shoot regeneration and Agrobacterium tumefaciens mediated transformation in rohida (Tecomella undulata). Indian For 2009, 135(6), 751-64.

Four different explants from Tecomella undulata were used for in vitro adventitious shoot regeneration. The treatment having IAA (0.1 mg/l) and zeatin (2.5mg/l) in combination yielded maximum number of shoots from hypoeotyle (16) and cotyledonary nodes (27). In case of epicotyle, the best response (11 shoots per explant) was observed in the treatments having IAA (0.1 mg/I) + BAP (2.5 mg/l). While, regeneration of shoots from cotyledon was not observed. Pretreatment of regenerated shoots in a mixture of NAA, IAA and IBA (5.0 mg/l, each) for 36 hours was found to be the best for root induction. Survival of 75% was observed from the plantlets kept for hardening, whereas 62% hardened plants survived in field. For transformation, continuous light and mild shaking with hands at three to five hours interval for 36 hours was found more efficient (5% transformation). Hence, we report here an efficient adventitious shoot regeneration system in T. undulata using cotyledonary node as an explant that has a vital role in gene transfer technologies.

8 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

017237   Sharma V D;Gupta M (Botany Dep, S.V. College, Aligarh-202 001, Email: sharmaGD5104@gmail.com) : Estimation of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi at varying soil depth, during kharif season in Aligarh. Bionotes 2010, 12(2), 67.

^ssc 1 table, 5 ref

017236   Satya Narain (Boatany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Additions to the genus Ipomoea L. of Hamirpur and Mahoba district (U.P.), India. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1255-8.

A taxonomic account of the genus Ipomoea L. of family Convolvulaceae collected from Hamirpur and Mahoba districts, U.P. is given with up-to-date nomenclature, key for identification, brief description, phenology, locality and field number of each taxon. The genus in the district is represented by 12 species of which 7 species are new additions.

3 ref

017235   Rizvi R H;Gupta V K;Ahlawat S P;Datta A (NO, National Research Centre for Agroforestry, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh) : Age-age correlation models for Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. in semi-arid region of Central India. Indian For 2009, 135(8), 1050-8.

Nine years growth data of Dalbergia sissoo progeny trial established in semi-arid region of Central India was analysed, Significantly high age-age correlations were found for tree traits viz. height, dbh and D^{2H, Among three traits, empirical model developed for trait index D2H was found to be best fit (adj. R2 = 0.931). Using this model, the age-age correlations were predicted and efficiency of early selection in terms of gain per year for different plantation and rotation ages was estimated. For the selection age 12 years and rotation age 40 years, the genetic gain was almost twice. But this model is time dependent and does not take into account the growth rates. Another type of model based on variance ratio and a factor of relative size dependent growth was also applied. Predictions of age-age correlations were found to be better in case of D2H than height and dbh. According to this model, selection of progenies at 9 years age seems reasonably good for the improvement of height of Dalbergia sissoo.}

1 illus, 9 tables, 17 ref

017234   Ravi Kumar (NO, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar, Haryana-125 004) : Jatropha: a biodiesel plant. Indian Fmg 2008, 58(7), 4-6.

Jatropha curcas that yields non-edible oil, has been identified for India as the most suitable tree-borne oilseed for production of bio-diesel And its capacity to rehabilitate degraded lands by improving land's water retention capacity renders it suitable for upgradation of land resources. This oil needs to be converted to bio-diesel through a simple chemical process called trans-esterification. While large plants would be useful for centralized production, smaller plants can also be started at the village level.

017233   Rajput K S;Raole V M (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univ of Baoda, Vadodara, Gujarat) : Solanum pseudo-capsicum L. : addition to the flora of Gujarat state. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1293-5.

1 illus, 15 ref

017232   Pradeep C K;Vrinda K V;Varghese S P (NO, Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram-695 562, Email: drckpradeep@hotmail.com) : Favolaschia - a new genus record for India. Mushroom Res 2008, 17(2), 67-8.

Favolaschia tonkinensis (Pat.) Singer is described, illustrated and reported for the first time from India based on collections from Wayanad, Kerala.

2 illus, 6 ref

017231   Prabhudesai M;Hiremath K G;Bhat D J (Botany Dep, Dhempe College of Arts and Science, Miramar, Panaji, Goa, Email: mangalaprabhudesai@mail.com) : Seasonal variations in atmospheric pollen and fungal spores of two sanctuaries of Goa. Indian J Aerobiol 2009, 22(1-2), 8-16.

The aim of the present study was to assess the seasonal variations in airborne pollen grains and fungal spores at two sanctuaries, namely, Cotigao and Mollem at Goa. The collection of airspora was carried out at a height of six ft. above ground level using locally fabricated spore Trap. The survey of the airspora was carried out for two years, from June 2005 to May 2007. Pollen grains of Poaceae dominated the airspora throughout the study period. The fungal assembly showed slight diversity. At Cotigao Fusarium spp. was dominant during both the years of study (June 2005 - May 2007). However, at Mollem Aspergillus spp. were found to be maximum during the first year and Fusarium during the second year.

2 illus, 4 tables, 33 ref

017230   Nayak B K;Nanda A (Plant Science Dep, K. M. Centre for P.G. Studies (Autonomous), Pondicherry-605 008, Email: vijaynaik@yahoo.co.in) : Airborne fungal spores of a college library in an industrial city of Tamil Nadu. Indian J Aerobiol 2009, 22(1-2), 29-33.

Aeromycological survey in the library of MGR College, Hosur, an Industrial city of Tamilnadu, India was conducted for one year term starting from May 2002 up to April 2003 by sampling indoor air with implementation of two stage Anderson sampler. During the study period altogether 34 fungal species of 27 genera were isolated by the above sampler. Aspergillus and Cladosporium were isolated abundantly in the indoor environments of the library by the technique. Periconia, Curvularia, Fusarium and Helminthosporium were the dominants followed by Aspergillus and Cladosporium. Pestalotia, Phoma, Mucor, Rhizopus and Alternaria were also recorded during the study period. Scytalidium sp., Scopulariopsis sp., Paecilomyces variolti, Trichothecium roseum, Cunninghamella sp., and Tetraploa sp. were recorded with less numbers. Pyricularia oryzae and Helmithosporium sp., plant pathogenic fungi were recorded. Cellulose mineralising fungi, Trichoderma sp. and Chaetomium sp. were also isolated during three months only out of the total months.

2 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

017229   Nath N;Das A (Botany Dep, Goalpara College, Goalpara-783 101) : Palynotaxonomic survey of some species of Polygonum L.. Envir Ecol 2009, 27(1A), 483-4.

Three species of the genus Polygonum L. were studied in detailed including their external morphology with special emphasis on palynology of the three species, viz. Polygonum chinense L., P. hydropiper L., P. hydropiper var flaccidum (Meissn.) Steward. AH the three species have similar type of pollen grains i.e. pantoporate, spheroidal but they show differences in pore size, pollen size. exine diameter. So these characters may be helpful in identifying the species of Polygonum L-acurately.

^ssc1 table, 6 ref

017228   Naithani H B;Shah R (Botany Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Another exotic weed invading Uttarakhand Himalayas. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1285-6.

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017227   Munruchi Kaur;Atri N S;Yadwinder Singh (Botany Dep, Punjabi Univ, Patiala-147 002, Email: munruchi@gmail.com) : New records of genus Amanita Pers. section vaginatae (Fr.) Quel. from India. Mushroom Res 2008, 17(2), 51-4.

Amanita griseofolia Zhu L. Yang and A. hemibapha var. ochracea Zhu L. Yang belonging to section Vaginatae of family Pluteaceae are described and illustrated with colour photographs and line drawings. Both these taxa are being reported for the first time from India.

4 illus, 6 ref

017226   Mishra Y;Shirin F (Genetics and Plant Propagation Div, Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh) : Clonal propagation of mature trees of Gmelina arborea Roxb. Via In-vitro technique. Indian For 2009, 135(6), 807-16.

In-vitro axillary bud proliferation has been achieved in nodal segment explants from the side branches of 15-18 years old trees of Gmelina arborea on MS medium +10 uM BA. MS medium containing 1.0 μM BA and 0.1 uM Kn induced maximum shoot multiplication. The addition of 23 uM AgNO₃ in the culture facilitated callus free shoot formation. Rooting was achieved on 1/2 MS medium enriched with 10.0 μM IBA and rooted plantlets were successfully acclimatized in high humidity conditions (80-90% RH) for two weeks prior to successful transfer to a shadehouse. The eight months old potted plants were showing excellent growth and development.

1 illus, 3 tables, 28 ref

017225   Mishra A;Nautiyal S;Nautiyal D P (Plant Physiology Discipline, Botany Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehra Dun) : Variation in seed and growth characteristics of normal and quality planting stock of important fuelwood and fodder tree species of Garhwal Himalayas. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1169-79.

A study on seed and growth characteristics of different fuelwood and fodder tree species of Garhwal Himalayas was carried out to find out the suitable species for higher biomass production on the basis between normal and quality planting stock. The data indicated that quality planting stock attained the maximum growth as compared to the normal planting stock. Species like Grewia optiva, Terminalia chebula, Ficus gibbosa, Albizia lebbek, Kydia calyciana and Bauhiniapurpnrea were better in terms of growth at the nursery stage and may be given priority under the fuelwood and fodder yielding tree species of the area.

3 illus, 2 tables, 6 ref

017224   Kundu S R (NO, , Botanical Survey of India, Howrah, West Bengal) : Synopsis of hypericaceae in Indian sub-continent : its distribution and endemism. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1241-53.

A preliminary checklist of Hypericaceae in Indian sub-continent has been prepared on the basis of primary observations of different taxa belonging to this family in wild habitats and on secondary observations based on examining herbarium specimens and taxonomic literature. In the Indian sub-continent (comprising Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and India), the family Hypericaceae is poorly represented with 10.2% of global distribution. The present paper deals with distribution, phytoendemism, possible fossil ancestry, potential, survival threat etc. on existing taxa etc. of Hypericaceae in Indian sub-continent. For better understanding of the species dynamics of Hypericaceae in Indian sub-continent, the present status of phytoendemism has been compared with the data of previous investigations done in the Nineteenth century.

4 tables, 37 ref

017223   Kumaresan V;Ganesan T;Rajarajan D (Plant Science Dep, Tagore Arts College, Lawspet, Puducherry-605 008) : Pseudocolus grandis from Souhern India. Mushroom Res 2008, 17(2), 69-70.

Pseudocolus Lloyd (Clathraceae) is a poorly known genus with only few species. Pseudocolus grandis Saenz, Rawla and Sharma was first reported form Northern India in 1982. It is now found to occur in Puducherry and is being reported for the first time from Southern India.

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017222   Khosla V;Pant K S;Gairola S (Botany Dep, HNB Garhwal Univ, Srinagar, Garhwal, Uttarakhand) : Seasonal variations of the effect of auxins on rooting of different stem cutting portions of Jatropha curcas Linn.. Indian For 2009, 135(9), 1185-92.

The study was conducted on rooting of stem cuttings of J. curcas with different concentrations of IBA solutions under open nursery conditions in quick dip method for 10 seconds during Rainy (July-Sept.) and Winter (Feb.-April) seasons. Application of IBA does not have significant effect on promotion of rooting in Jatropha cuttings. Maximum success was recorded when the basal portion of cuttings were planted in the nursery during winter season without any treatment (IBA).

14 ref

017221   Karmakar P;Layek U;Mitra B;Pal P K (Palaeobotany & Palynology Section, Botany Dep & Forestry, Vidyasagar Univ, Midnapore-721 102, Email: karmakar_p@yahoo.co.in) : Floral visitors on Bauhinia racemosa, a threatended medicinal plant. Bionotes 2010, 12(2), 60-1.

1 table, 4 ref