013729   Bharati K A;Sharma B L (Botany Dep, N.R.E.C. College, Khurja-203 131, Email: kumaravinashbharati@rediffmail.com) : Ethnoveterinary values of some herbaceous species of Sikkim. Adv Pl Sci 2009, 22(2), 583-6.

The slate of Sikkim supports large number of livestock population, which play a vital role in the livelihood of natives. In this remote area, where modern veterinary infrastructure is very poor, the local are dependent on (heir traditional indigenous health care practice to maintain their livestock population. A field survey was done to study and document the indigenous knowledge of various ethnic groups of Sikkim regarding animal healthcare. Number of plants have been collected and the information on their ethnoveterinary uses were gathered from local inhabitants. The information about folk medicinal use, vernacular names of plants and the parts of the plant used are documented. We have recorded 12 sp. of herbaceous plants, which are used by local people to cure various disease and disorders. The basic aim of the study is to document the knowledge and conserve these medicinal plants.

1 illus, 19 ref

013728   Azaz A D;Arabaci T;Sangun M K (Biology Dep, Faculty of Science and Letters, Balikesir Univ, 10145 Balikesir, Turkey, Email: azaz@balikesir.edu.tr) : Essential oil composition and antimicrobial activities of Achillea biserrata M. Bieb. and Achillea salicifolia besser subsp. salicifolia collected in Turkey. Asian J Chem 2009, 21(4), 3193-8.

Aerial parts of Achillea biserrata (collected from Gumushane between Trabzon) and A. salicifolia subsp. salicifolia (collected from Ardahan between Gole) were subjected to hydrodistillation to yield their essential oils and were analyzed by GC and GC-MS. The main components of tested essential oils were camphor (36.80-55.26%), 1,8-cineol (19.35-22.75%), camphene (16.41-3.23%) and artemisia alcohol (14.28-3.17%), respectively. The antibacterial and antifungal activities of tested essential oils were evaluated against Escherichia coli ATCC 25292, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, Proteus vulgaris NRRL 123, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853, Enterobacter aerogenes NRRL 3567, Listeria monocystogenes ATCC 7644, Serratia marcescens, Candida albicans, Penicillium expansum, Aspergillus flavus, A. niger and Alternaria brassicola. All tested bacteria and Candida albicans were inhibited by the essential oils. The essential oils showed weak antifungal activity against all microfungi tested. Nevertheless, it is found that P. expansum was not inhibited by any essential oils used in this study. Aspergillus niger was also not inhibited by A. biserrata. Alternaria brassicola was the most sensitive microfungi against all the tested essential oils.

4 tables, 22 ref

013727   Annie Sulochana P;Selvakumari (Botany Dep, St. John's College, Palayamkottai-627 002) : Insecticidal activity of Typhonium roxburghii Schott. Geobios 2009, 36(1), 33-6.

Typhonium roxburghii Schott corm extracts were screened for insecticidal activity against Triboiium castaneum Herbst. The benzene and methanol extracts were found to be effective (LC₅₀ 3.042% and 4.120% in 24h). However, the oil fractions (TR-PF and TR-oil) obtained from the extracts were highly toxic (LC₅₀ 0.056% and 0.101% in 24h). The petroleum ether fraction of the benzene extract (TR-PF) induced absolute mortality at 0.10% concentration.

4 tables, 7 ref

013726   Aher R K (Botany Dep, New Arts, Commerce and Science College, Parner, Dist.-Ahmednagar-414 302) : Distribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in groundnut, Arachis hypogaea (L.) rhizosphere and its effect on growth. Flora Fauna 2009, 15(1), 37-9.

Seedling growth and vigor of various oil seed crops raised in pots were evaluated after inoculating nursery soil with four culture of VA-mycorrhizal fungi. Four VA mycorrhizal fungi were tested for their ability to increase the growth, biomass by colonization of roots. Among the four VA mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus fascicu/atum, Glomus geosporum, Scutellispora nigra and Scutellispora Sp.). Glomus fasciculatum was most effective in increasing the shoot and root growth, dry weight,% infection over control. VA-mycorrhizal fungi inoculated seedlings grew faster and healthier than uninoculated seedlings.

2 tables, 14 ref

012708   Zakir M;Afaq S H;Latif A (Ilmul Advia Dep, Faculty of Unani Medicine, A.K. Tibbiya College, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh-202 002) : Pharmacognostical and phytochemical studies of Sankhaholi (Evolvulus alsinoides Linn.): a lesser known plant. Hippocratic J Unani med 2008, (NULL), 125-36.

Sankhaholi (Evolvulus alsinoides Linn.; Family: Convolvulaceae), is a common weed in open and grassy places throughout India. It seems that the Unani practitioners adopted it due to easy availability and usefulness in loss of memory, sexual weakness and spermatorrhea, periodic fever, syphilis, gonorrhoea, and general debility etc. There are reports for its usefulness and considered as lesser known plant, but no pharmacognostical and phytochemical work are carried out. Thus in order to bridge the gape, the work is an endeavor in this regard. The study included macroscopy, microscopy and physicochemical standardization. The carbohydrates (5.27%), sterols/terpenes (0.89%), nitrogen (5.26%), proteins (4.81%), phenols (1.22%), flavonoids (1.00%) and oil (1.07%) were made. With the help of descending paper chromatogrpahy 13 amino acids and 2 sugars were identified. The Layer Chromatography (TLC) was also made to establish the TLC fingerprinting.

14 illus, 1 table, 29 ref

012707   Yogesh Kumar;Hallan V;Zaidi A A (Plant Virology Lab, Floriculture Div, Institute of Himalayan Bioresource Technology (CSIR), Palampur-176 061, Email: maivi@gmail.com) : Identification and characterization of Bean yellow mosaic virus infecting freesia. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 253-5.

Freesia is popularly cultivated in Northern India for its cut flower production. In a survey of freesia in Northern India, plants under green house cultivation were found to show chlorotic spots on leaves. Samples were collected and the causal agent was identified to be Bean yellow mosaic virus (BYMV), by Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Complete coat protein (CP) gene and 3'UTR sequence of the isolate was determined. The sequence had less than 98 Per cent Nucleotide Identity (PNI). Phylogenetic analysis with other BYMV isolates showed highest similarity with most of the isolates reported from gladiolus, from different countries. The study reveals the molecular characterization of BYMV infecting Freesia for the first time. To the best of authors knowledge this is the first study of BYMV infecting Freesia in India.

^ssc3 illus, 11 ref

012706   Yang C;Liu G;Wang M H;Qu G Z (NO, Key Laboratory of Forest Tree Genetic Improvement and Biotechnology (N, 26 Hexing Road, Harbin 150040, China, Email: quguanzheng@yahoo.com) : Effect of hormones on tumor formation in tobacco hybrids. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 169-73.

Genetic tumors can develop on certain tobacco hybrid plant spontaneously. In the study, exogenous hormones were applied on the tumorous tobacco hybrid seedlings (N. glauca x N. langsdorffii), and the data showed that N6-benzyladenine (BA) enhanced the tumor formation under both tissue culture and field conditions, and NAA and ABA inhibited tumor formation under tissue culture condition, whereas ABA accelerated the tumor formation under field condition. Furthermore, Northern analysis indicated that tumor tissue exhibited high level of CycD expression compared with normal tissues, implying abnormal cell cycle of tumor cells. The differential display reverse transcription PCR (DDRT-PCR) results indicated some genes may be involved in tumor formation.

3 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

012705   Wahegaonkar N;Shinde S Y;Salunkhe S M; Palsingankar P L (Botany Dep, Botany Research Center, Vasantrao Naik Mahavidyalaya, Aurangabad) : Diversity of rhizosphere and rhizoplane mycoflora of Cajanus cajan (Linn.). Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 186-92.

The work deals with enumeration of fungal species and studies on their diversity in rhizospfiere of Cajanus cajan, L A total number of 51 species belonging to 21 genera of microfungi were isolated. Mitosporic count was found to be dominating in the population. The most common genera were Aspergillus, Altemaria, Cutvularia, Cladosporium, Fusarium. Penicilliumartd Trichoderma.T'he study reveals the distribution pattern of fungal population in the soil during different growth stages of Cajanus cajan L.

4 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

012704   Valledor L;Hasbun R;Rodriguez R;Canal M J (EPIPHYSAGE Research Group, Plant Physiology, BOS Dep and IUBA, University of Oviedo, Spain, Email: mjcanal@uniovi.es) : RNA-free DNA extraction protocol from Pinus tissues for molecular biology or HPCE/HPLC analyses. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 229-32.

Simple method for extracting DNA from various in vitro or ex vitro Pinus tissues is described. Good yield and high quality RNA-free DNA ready to use in molecular biology assays or analytical analysis was obtained. DNA quality was measured analyzing absorption spectra between 200 and 300 nm, A_260/280 ratio and HPCE. This protocol was tested with no modification in a wide range of Pinus tissues from recalcitrant in vitro callus to mature field scions improving the results obtained with previous protocols. As the protocol is simple, almost universal and inexpensive it may be used for routine isolation from Pinus tissues. An isolation troubleshooting table was included to facilitate the setting up of reported protocol to other plant species.

^ssc3 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

012703   Tiwari S P;Deeba F;Chauhan D K (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: sptiwariau@yahoo.co.in) : Some scale leaves and seeds from the kamthi formation of India. Bionature 2009, 29(1), 17-32.

Deals with some sterile scale leaves and dispersed seeds found in ifossiliferous shale of Handappa village, Hinzirda ghati of Dhenkanal district, Orissa, India. The scale leaves from Handappa are Nautiyalolepis lanceolata gen. et sp.nov., Utkaliolepis indica gen. et sp. nov. and Handapiolepis parijaii gen. et sp nov. while two types of seeds referable to two form genera are described under the names Cordaicarpus utkalensis sp. y nov. and Samarops/s handapaensis sp. nov. The scale leaves and seeds are well preserved but they are in form of impressions. The function of scale leaves are also discussed in detail.

10 illus, 67 ref

012702   Tishinov K;Stambolieva N;Nedkov P;Galunsky B B (Chemisty and Biophysics of Proteins and Enzymes Lab, Institute of Organic Chemistry with Centre of Phytochemistry, Bulgrian, 1113 Sofia, Acad. G. Bonchev Str., Block 9, Bulgaria, Email: ktishinov@gmail.com) : Sunflower seed aminopeptidase-catalyzed hydrolysis of Phe-Xaa dipeptides - exploring the S₁' specificity of the enzyme. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 237-9.

S'₁ substrate specificity of the sunflower seed major aminopeptidase was studied with a series of dipeptide substrates with phenylalanine at P₁ and a hydrophobic amino acid at P'₁ position. The kinetic parameters of hydrolysis are significantly affected by the structure, side chain hydrophobicity and configuration of the P'₁ moiety. Its binding during enzyme-substrate complex formation takes place at a hydrophobic site of limited size following an extraction mechanism as seen from the applied structure-activity correlation. Attempts to establish such dependencies for the catalytic step of the reaction reveal the presence of additional S'₁ -P'₁ enzyme-substrate interactions of greater complexity.

^ssc2 illus, 1 table, 6 ref

012701   Tessy P P;Sreekumar R (Botany Dep, Christ College, Irinjalakuda, Thrissur-680 125, Email: tessyj@sancharnet.in) : Assessment of the biodiversity and seasonal variation of freshwater algae in the Thrissur Kol wetlands (Part of Vembanad - Kol, Ramsar site), Kerala. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 721-32.

Kol wetlands constitute a significant part of one of the largest wetland systems on the southwest coast of India, namely Vembanad - Kol, a Ramsar site of Kerala. The study was conducted at the kol wetlands of Thrissur district. One hundred and sixty nine taxa of phytoplankton belonging to sixty one genera were enumerated from four stations. These algal components come under the six taxonomic classes namely Chlorophyceae, Desmidiaceae, Bacillariophyceae, Chrysophyceae, Euglenophyceae and Cyanophyceae. Desmidiaceae was the dominant group with seventy three species under nineteen genera. The most abundant genus was Closterium with thirteen species. The Bacillariophyceae was less dominant throughout the period of study in all the sites studied. The seasonal assessment of the phytoplanktons showed marked differences in the composition and distribution of various algal groups.

1 illus, 2 tables, 52 ref

012700   Swathi Anuradha T;Jami S K;Kirti P B (Plant Sciences Dep, University of Hyderabad, Hyderabad-500 046, Email: pbksl@uohyd.ernet.in) : Defensin gene of Indian mustard is stress induced. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 221-4.

Full-length 956 bp gene coding for a defensin (BjD) with an open reading frame of 243 bp capable of coding for a peptide of 81 amino acids was cloned from mustard (Brassica juncea). Iso-electric point and the molecular mass of the deduced BjD protein were predicted to be 8.7 and 8.61 kD, respectively. This gene is expressed only in leaves of the mustard plant and its expression is upregulated by various abiotic stress inducers, methyl viologen and hydrogen peroxide. This gene is also upregulated by salicylic acid, abscisic acid, ethephon and wounding. The partially characterized upstream regulatory region of the gene possessed a number of conserved elements that were shown earlier to be important in stress induced upregulation of various genes. These observations indicate that this gene has potential in inducing biotic and abiotic stress tolerance.

^ssc3 illus, 21 ref

012699   Sudhakar Reddy C;Raju V S (Forestry and Ecology Div, National Remote Sensing Centre, Balanagar, Hyderabad-500 625) : Aeschynomene americana L. and Mikania micrantha Kunth - new invasive weeds in flora of Andhra Pradesh, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 540-1.

Two invasive alien weeds, Aeschynomene americana L. and Mikania micrantha Kunth. are recorded as additions to the Flora of Andhra Pradesh State, India.

6 ref

012698   Srivastava C (Botany Dep, M.G. Post Graduate College, Gorakhpur-273 001, Email: chhamta11@yahoo.com) : Taxonomic and ethnobiological status of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal: the Indian Ginseng. Med Pl 2009, 1(2), 129-31.

Taxonomic and ethno-medicinal status of the Indian Ginseng, Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal, has been discussed. Its active principles, traditional and modern uses have also been given.

2 illus, 9 ref

012697   Singh R P;Agarwal R M;Tiwari A;Singh K (School of studies in Botany, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh) : Floristic components of keoladeo national park. Bionature 2009, 29(1), 47-56.

As many as 223 species of angiosperms belonging to 171 genera have been recorded during 2002-2005. Four species found during the survey are new to this National Park not reported earlier viz. Ranunculus scleratus, Bombax ceiba Croton bonplandianum and Jatropha gossypifolia.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

012696   Shyam Kumar R;Thajuddin N;Upreti D K (Biotechnology Dep, Kamaraj College of Engineering and Technology, Virudhunagar-626 001) : Additions to Lichen flora of Yerkaud (Shervaroy hills) Tamil Nadu, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 673-6.

Total of 36 species belonging to 14 families and 18 genera of lichens are added to the Yerkaud (Shervaroy hills) region of Tamil Nadu in Eastern Ghats of India.

2 tabels, 6 ref

012695   Shukla H S (Botany Dep, Arts, Commerce and Science College, Taloda-425 413) : Comparative study of antifungal property of some plant extracts against some pathogenic fungi. Asian J chem envir Res 2008, 1(2-3), 69-72.

Antifungal activity of Annona squamosa, Jatropa gossypifolia, Madhuka longifolia, Pongamia pinnata, and Vitex negundo was tested against Alternaria brassicicola, A. solani, Fusarium oxysporum and F. solani. From the data obtained under laboratory conditions, it is evident that the leaf extract of Annona squamosa is more effective in controlling F. oxysporum while leaf extract of Pongamia pinnata shows less effective as an antifungal activity.

2 tables, 12 ref

012694   Sharma N;Tewari A (Mycology and Plant Pathology Lab, Botany Dep, Lucknow University, Lucknow-226 007) : Toxigenic fungi associated with papaya fruit. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 163-5.

Papaya fruits, with rot symptoms, were collected from different fruit markets of Lucknow. Fungi, commonly found in rotten papaya fruits, were isolated and maintained on PDA slants. Mycotoxins were detected qualitatively as well as quantitatively in infected papaya fruits.

2 tables, 15 ref

012693   Sharma M;Jerath N;Chadha J (NO, Punjab State Council for Science and Technology, Sector 26, Chandigarh-160 019) : Material for the flora of Punjab State. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 585-8.

Deals with 28 species belnging to 27 genera of 23 angiospermic families and 5 species belonging to 5 genera and 5 families of pteridophytes which have not been reported earlier from Punjab.

3 ref

012692   Senthilkumar M;Sami Veerappa N;Manian S (Plant Science Dep, Bharathidasan University, Tiruchirappalli-620 024, Email: senthilkumar200572@yahoo.com) : Phyto-chemical analysis of Plectranthus barbatus Andr. medicinal plant used by Toda tribal people in Kodanadu hills, Nilgiri district, Tamil Nadu, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 542-4.

Decoction of Plectranthus barbatus Andr. (= Coleus forskohlii (Willd.) Briq.) (Lamiaceae) leaves is taken for curing the salt deposition in liver, pancreas and gall bladder by the Toda tribal people in Kodanadu Hills, Nilgiri District, Tamil Nadu, India. Leaves of P. barbatus, collected from Kodanadu Hills in Western Ghats, India, were evaluated in the increasing order of polarity solvents, such as Petroleum ether (PE), Benzene (BE), Chloroform (CH), Acetone (AC), Ethyl acetate (EA), Ethanol (ET) and Hot water (HW). Leaf extract of P. barbatus revealed presence of alkaloids, steroids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, proteinj, amino acids, tannins, phenolics, glycosides, saponins, volatile oils, fatty acids and emodins, which play important role in curing the relevant disease.

10 ref

012691   Satpute R A;Ghogare D S (Botany Dep, Government Institute of Science, Aurangabad-431 004) : Mutagenic effects of gamma rays and sodium azide on frequency and spectrum of chlorophyll and macromutation in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 193-6.

The sunflower, Helianthus annuus L. comprises an important member of family Asteraceae. The mutagenic effects of gamma rays (5,10 and 15kR) and sodium azide (0.01,0.03 and 0.05%) on the frequency and spectrum of chlorophyll mutations in two varieties of sunflower, namely, Solapur sunflower (SS-56) and Latur sunflower (LS-11) have been studied. Both the varieties of sunflower differed marginally in their response towards different mutagens with respect to the parameters of viable mutants.

4 tables, 7 ref

012690   Satish S;Raghavendra M P;Mohana D C;Raveesha K A (Herbal Drug Technology Laboratory, Microbiology Section, Studies in Bo, Mysore Univ, Manasagangotri, Mysore-570 006, Email: karaveesha@gmail.com) : Efficacy of some plant extracts against Salmonella: an In vitro study. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 19-24.

Antibacterial agents isolated from plant origin could be exploited in human disease management caused by different species of Salmonella. Aqueous extracts of leaves of forty plants selected based on traditional medicine and random selection from Mysore region, Karnataka (India) were subjected to in vitro antibacterial activity assay against Salmonella typhi, Salm. typhimurium and Salm. paratyphi A employing cup diffusion method. It is indicated that six plants exhibited antibacterial activity against test pathogens and the spectrum of activity was varied among the pathogens. Antibacterial activity of the different solvent extracts of six plants, which recorded antibacterial activity in aqueous extract, was compared with six antibiotics. The inhibitory activity was highly significant in the methanol extract of Anacardium occidentals, Acacia nilotica and Lawsonia inermis. Present investigation has led identi the potential candidate plants for further work on isolation and characterization of the active principle responsible for antibacterial activity and its exploitation as therapeutic agent against disease caused by species of Salmonella.

4 tables, 16 ref

012689   Rawat V K (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002, Email: rawat_vk2107@rediffmail.com) : Elaphoglossum marginatum (Wallich ex Fee) T. Moore (Elaphoglossaceae): a new distributional record for Arunachal Pradesh, Eastern Himalaya. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 661-2.

Elaphoglossum marginatum (Wallich ex Fee) T. Moore, reported here as new record for Arunachal Pradesh from Mehao Wildlife Sanctuary, Lower Dibang Valley District, is a graceful, rare fern. Full citation, correct nomenclature, diagnostic description and distribution based on material studied are provided.

1 illus, 10 ref

012688   Ramesh Kumar;Suman N R (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Circle, Lower new colony, Latiumkharh, Shillong, Meghalaya) : Plant wealth of Ken Ghariyal Sanctuary, M.P.. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 663-72.

Deals with the topography, geology, climate, rainfall and soil in general. Floristically, the investigation is primarily based on 3 years extensive tours undertaken in different seasons which resulted in recording the presence of 466 species of angiosperms belonging to 297 genera and 80 families. Out of these, 111 species in 62 genera and 12 families belong to Monocots and 335 species in 235 genera and 68 families belong to Dicots. Economic aspects of the flora, viz. vegetable plants, fruit yielding plants, wild edible plants, timber yielding plants, fibre yielding plants, tannin and gum yielding plants and medicinal plants have been dealt briefly. Conservational aspects of the flora have also been discussed in brief for the benefit of policy makers, foresters and other plant managers. Literature consulted is cited under references for economy of space.

1 illus, 47 ref

012687   Ramanujam M P;Kavitha N;Kadamban D (Plant Science Dep, Centre for Post Graduate Studies, Lawspet, Puducherry-605 008, Email: mpraman@gmail.com) : Conservation values of minor sacred groves in Cuddalore area of Tamil Nadu, South India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 688-95.

Five small-sized groves groves at Semmankuppam, Alappakam, Keezhpavanikuppam, Villianªallur and Vairankuppam in Cuddalore district of Tamilnnadu were analysed. All are dedicated to Aiyanar except at Vairankuppam, where Amman in the form of Neem tree is the presiding deity. Semmankuppam grove is a monodominant palm grove. The others are multiªspeciose. The patch at Alappakam was dominated by scrub species. Overall, 34 woody species ªevergreen, deciduous and scrub elements - are found in varying proportions in the groves. Occurrence of two evergreen species, Atalantia monophylla and Pamburus missionis endemic to the Southern Western Ghats and a single robust liana specimen of Tiliacora acuminata (88 cm gbh) at Villianallur are botanically significant. All the five groves can be termed minor "Marudham groves", each having its own conservation value.

3 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

012686   Prasad V (Botany Dep, Thakur Ram Multiple Campus, Tribhuvan University, Birgunj, Nepal, Email: mpal_vp@yahoo.com) : Protection of UV-B induced damage by sodium dithionite and sodium chloride in Spirulina fusiformis. J appl Biosci 2009, 35(2), 177-80.

Spirulina fusiformis, a highly protein-rich (70%), spirally coiled, polymorphic cyanobacterium, popular for novel food, feed, nutraceutical and therapeutic applications, is sensitive to UV-B radiation. Protein is highly sensitive due to membrane protein as the target site. NaCl (0.5 M) and 1.0 mM Sodium dithionite (SDT), both protected survival and growth in S. fusiformis against 30 min UV-B induced damage in supplemented condition, but SDT was highly protective. NaCl protected growth behavior more than SDT during 60 min UV-B exposure.

4 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

012685   Patil B J;Pawar D (Botany and Plant Protection Dep, Sadguru Gadage Maharaj College, Karad, Dist-Satara-415 124) : Inhibitory effect of plant extracts on spore germination of Puccinia erianthii Padwik, Khan and Kuehnii. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 238-9.

1 table, 2 ref

012684   Pathak M K;Bhaumik M;Chakrabarty T (Cryptogamic Unit, Botanical Survey of India, Howrh-711 103) : Three new species in Indian Lindera Thunb. and Neolitsea (Benth.) Merr. (Lauraceae). J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 657-60.

Three new species, viz., Lindera sanjappae M.Bhaumik, M.K. Pathak & Chakrab, L. varmae M.K. Pathak, M.Bhaumik & Chakrab. and Neolitsea sanjappae M.K. Pathak, M.Bhaumik & Chakrab. are described from Dibang Valley district, Arunachal Pradesh, India.

3 illus

012683   Panda S;Bhattacharyya D;Mukherjee P K (Botany Dep, Charuchandra College (University of Calcutta), 22 Lake Road, Kolkata-700 029) : Macrophytic vegetation of wetlands of West Bengal - some case studies: perspectives of conservation. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 643-56.

As many as 476 wetlands of different kinds each exceeding a total area of 10 ha have been identified in West Bengal State (India). Of these, 12 which includes man-made and cut-off meanders of fresh-water type as well as a few salt marshes have been explored for their macrophytic vegetation. A total of 123 species of angiosperms comprising 67 dicotyledonous and 56 monocotyledonous species were collected and their growth-forms were determined. The physico-chemica1 parameters studied were shoreline morphology, water regime, pH and salinity of water, and perceived threats. Characteristics of each wetland, analysis of the relevant aquatic flora, distribution, frequency, flower-fruit times, habit and habitat types, and their conservation scenario have been discussed. Best growth of these macrophytes is observed in neutral to slightly alkaline pH (7.50 - 8.31). The distribution and abundance of various growth-forms depend on shoreline morphology, sediment/soil characteristics, annual flood levels etc. Threats to these wetlands chiefly include the practice of pisciculture and reclamation for cultivation apart from infestation of Erehlwmia crassipes (Mart.) Solms. and siltation from run-offs. Aldrovanda vesreulosa L. and the bladderworts in general are threatened in this State.

1 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

012682   Nasare P N;Choudhary A D (Botany Dep, RTM Nagpur Univ Campus, Amravati Road, Nagpur-440 033) : MEIOTIC consequences of gamma rays, SA and EMS in ocimum sanctum Linn.. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 197-20.

Effect of gamma rays at 200, 400 and 600 Gy. Sodium azide (SA) at 0.001, 0.002 and 0.003% and ethyl rnethanesulphonate (EMS) at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.4% on meiosis in flower buds of Ocimum sanctum Linn, was studied. The chromosomal abnormalities in the form of chromosomal bridges, precociously moving chromosomes, laggard and chromosomal fragments were observed. All the mutagens were found to be effective in inducing various meiotic chromosomal aberrations. No aberrations were noticed in the anthers of control plants. The meiotic chromosomal abnormalities increased with increasing concentration of the mutagens. The meiosis was normal, leading to normal tetrads and viable pollen grains.

1 table, 2 ref

012681   Namdas D D;Bhosale A M;Khilare C J (NO, Radhabai Kale Mahila Mahavidyalaya, Ahmednagar, Maharashtra-414 001) : Rhizosphere and soil mycoflora of Sorghum and tomato growing at Ahmednagar (M.S.). Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 244-5.

Rhizosphere and soil mycoflora of Sorghum (Sorghum vulgare Pers.) and tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.) was studied at seedling, vegetative and flowering stages during rabi season of 2006. A total of 36 fungal species belonging to 8 genera were isolated. Rhizosphere mycoflora was dominated soil mycoflora with Aspergillus, Penicillium, Curvularia, Drechslera, Fusariumand Trichoderma. Occurrence of rhizosphere fungi at different growth stages of crop plants was observed.

14 ref

012680   Naik V V;Bartakke S P (Botany Dep, Krishna Mahavidyalaya, Rethare Bk., Tal-Karad, Dist-Satara, Maharashtra) : Effect of Agave cantala leaf extract on downy mildew of grape. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 249-50.

Field experiments were conducted to assess the effect of Agave cantata Roxb. leaf extract in controlling downy mildew in the grape (Vitis vinifera L.) caused by Plasmopara viticola. Total polyphenols and activity of enzyme polyphenol oxidase increased in the leaves, sprayed with leaf extract as compared to those in healthy and infected leaves, A. cantala leaf extract spray was beneficial in controlling downy mildew infection of grape leaves.

1 table, 12 ref

012679   Nagaich D;Chandra A (Crop Improvement Div, Indian Grassland and Fodder Research Institute, Jhansi-284 003, Email: amaresh62@yahoo.com) : Assessment of genetic diversity and identification of informative molecular markers for germplasm characterization in Caribbean stylo (Stylosanthes hamata). J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 257-60.

Caribbean stylo (Stylosanthes hamata) is a tropical fodder and cover crop. Along with four other Stylosanthes species (S. scabra, S. humilis, S. viscosa, S. guianensis), it was introduced in India. It became well adapted in certain parts of the country and has been recommended for the improvement of range and degraded lands. A collection of 63 S. hamata accessions was fingerprinted with RAPD, ISSR and STS markers. Though the mean discriminating power of these marker systems ranges from 0.65 to 0.71, high values of marker index (2.91), resolving power (14.92) and effective number of patterns per assay unit (50.65) makes ISSR as a better marker system in comparison to other two markers used in this study. Thirteen RAPD and eleven STS primers could differentiate a maximum of 42 and 17 accessions, respectively, whereas two ISSR primers produced distinct fingerprints of all the S. hamata accessions. Mean genetic similarities of accession ranged from 0.83 (ISSR) to 0.91 (RAPD). Two RAPD, two STS and four ISSR primers generated a set of 12 diagnostic markers which could be useful for germplasm characterization and management.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

012678   Murugesan M;Amirthalingam K;Balasubramanian P (Landscape Ecology Div, Salim Ali Centre for Ornithology and Natural History, Anaikatty P.O., Coimbatore-641 108, Email: balusacon@yahoo.com) : Extended distribution of three endemic plants - new records to the flora of Eastern Ghats. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 552-6.

Highlights the extended distribution of three plant species, namely Tarenna asiatica (L.) Kuntze ex K. Schum. var. asiatica forma rigida (Wight) Raju (Rubiaceae), Cryptocarya beddomei Gamble (Lauraceae) and Litsea floribunda (Blume) Gamble (Lauraceae), which were considered as endemics to Western Ghats, from the Western Ghats to Eastern Ghats and other geographical regions.

28 ref

012677   Mishra S;Nanda P K;Mallick N;Mishra P K (Botany Dep, Ravenshaw Univ, Cuttack, Orissa) : Antifungal property and structure relationship of some new fungicides. Acta Cienc Indica-Chem 2009, 35(3), 395-400.

Several new fungicides were prepared and tested for their antifungal property against two pathogens such as Phytophthora parasitica var. piperina and Phytophthora nicotianae var. parasitica. A correlation is made between fungi toxicity with structure of fungicides.

2 tables, 13 ref

012676   Meenakshi;Pandey S N (Botany Dep, Lucknow Univ, Lucknow-226 007, Email: snpandey511@gmail.com) : Effect of chromium stress on growth and physiological responses in linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) plants. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 123-6.

Linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) plants were grown in Gomti upland alluvial (Sandy - loam) soil and irrigated with graded concentrations of chromium (VI) (0.02, 0.2,2 and 5 ppm). Marked reduction in growth, dry matter yield, chlorophyll contents (a, b, and total), catalase and amylase activity was observed at high concentrations of Cr supply levels (2 and 5 ppm) in irrigational water The visible symptoms of Cr toxicity appeared on plants were stunted plant growth, and chlorosis and tip burning of leaves. Symptoms were spread from base to top of the plants. Cr supply at it's lower concentrations (0.02 and 0.2 ppm) stimulated growth and metabolic responses in plants. Reduction in dry matter yield (47.7%) and total chlorophyll content (10.53%), was observed at 5 ppm Cr concentration over control. Increase in the activities of enzyme (catalase and amylase) was maximum at 2 ppm Cr and declined by Cr at it's 5 ppm concentration in irrigational water in linseed plants.

1 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

012675   Mazumdar J;Mukhopadhyay R (DUGC Centre for Advanced Study, Botany Dep, The Univ of Burdwan, Burdwan-713 104, Email: rnm13351@yahoo.com) : Opal phytoliths in three Indian thelypteroid ferns. Bionature 2009, 29(1), 11-15.

Opal phytoliths have been recovered from fresh leaf laminae of Christella dentata (Forssk.) Brownsey & Jermy, Ampelopteris prolifera (Retz.) Copel. and Cyclosorus interruptus (Willd.) H. to of family Thelypferidaceae. In all these plant materials most phytoliths are three dimensional, nearly globular to amorphous, hyaline and with smooth or granular surfaces. Few are thick plate-like with irregular margins. Size varies from 6-35 um in length and 4-33 um in width.

1 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

012674   Mangal Singh;Rathore M S;Choudhary K; Shekhawat N S (Biotechnology Lab, Faculty of Arts, Sciencne and Commerce, Mody Institute of Technology and Science (MITS), Deemed University, Lakshmangarh, Sikar-332 311, Email: mangalrathore@gmail.com) : Direct shoot bud formation and tuberization from aseptically cultured root tubers of Calla Lily (Zantedeschia aethiopica L). J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 203-7.

Describes the development of a micropropagation protocol for mass multiplication of Zantedeschia aethiopica by using root tubers as explant. The surface sterilized root tubers produced five to six shoot-buds on semi-solid Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium with 10.0 mg l^{-1 of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and additives (50.0 mg l-1 of ascorbic acid; 25.0 mg l-1 each of adenine sulphate, L-arginine and citric acid). The cultures were multiplied by sub-culture of individual shoot bud produced in vitro and clumps of shoot buds generated in vitro in cultures on MS medium containing 3.0 mg l-1 of BAP and additives. Further multiplication of propagules was achieved through tuber formation along with amplifying shoots on MS medium with 5.0 mg l-1 of BAP. The micropropagated shoots were rooted both in vitro as well as ex vitro. Cent percent of the cloned shoots rooted in vitro within 15-18 days on hormone-free « strength MS salts with 200.0 mg l-1 of activated charcoal. Alternatively 95-100% shoots rooted ex vitro under greenhouse conditions on soilrite after pulse-treatment with 500.0 mg l-1 of Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) or β-naphthoxyacetic acid (NOA) for 300 sec. The cloned plants were hardened in the greenhouse. The hardened plants were transplanted to soil for further acclimatization.}

2 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

012673   Majumder S C;Chakrabarty T (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Western Circle, Pune-411 001) : Census of the genus Nicotiana L. (Solanaceae) in India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 545-8.

Genus Nicotiana consists of about 67 species, occurring mainly in the Americas, S. Pacific, Australia and S.W. Africa. Some species of the genus are now cultivated in many countries particularly the Americas, Mediterranean, S. tropical Africa and China. In India, tobacco plant was introduced by the Protugese and Arabian traders around the year 1605. The name tobacco was appplied by the Spaniards for the forked pipe which the American Indians used for smoking tobacco.

012672   Kothari J;Sharma M (Botany Dep, Rajasthan Univ, Jaipur-302 004, Email: kailashcs@satyam.net.in) : Developmental Anatomy of seed coat and Pericarp with special reference to the devlopment of Phytomelanin IAYER in Ageratum conyzoides (Linn.) and Bidens biternata (Lour.) Merr. and Sherff.. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 373-8.

In Ageratum conyzoides (tribe Eupatorieae) and Bidens biternata (tribe Heliantheae) of Asteraceae studies showed that young ovary wall was distinguishable into two zones, the outer zone includes the epidermis and hypodermis while the inner one showed development of fibre cells and parenchyma cells. Between these two zones a schizogenous space was developed during the process of early development of the pericarp. Gradually a black substance, the phytomelanin was seen depositing on the wails of hypodermal cells, fibres and the inner parenchyma cells. This substance became dense and hard during fruit maturation. The phytomelanin cause the mature fruit to appear black. Analysis of 1R spectrum of phytomelanin of A. conyzoides and B. biternata showed the significant possibility of- OH stretching, hydrogen bonding, -CH group, aromatic C = C bonding with graphite like symmetry within sp^{2 hybridization and C-O bond of the carboxylic acid. These spectra have been analysed to conform the chemical nature of phytomelanin.}

4 illus, 28 ref

012671   Khan T A;Chaudhari G S;Pandey P O (Post Graduate Dep of Botany, M.J. College, Jalgaon, Maharashtra) : Eragrostiella nardoides trin. (Poaceae): a new record for Maharashtra from Khandesh region. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 205-7.

Deals with addition of one more species, Eragrostiella narofoides Trin. to the flora of Maharashtra. Detailed description and illustrations are provided to facilitate easy identification.

1 illus, 6 ref

012670   Kaviraj C P;Rao S (Avesthagen Limited Discoverer, 9th Floor, International Tech Park Limited, Whitefield Road, Bangalore-560 066, Email: srinathraom@rediffmail.com) : High frequency of plant regeneration from cotyledonary node explant of green gram (Vigna radiata L.)- a recalcitrant grain legume. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 267-71.

An efficient regeneration protocol without the intervention of callus using cotyledonary node explants of two mungbean varieties namely, Pusabaisaki and TAP-7 was developed. Best response towards multiple shoots regeneration in TAP-7 was observed on MS medium supplemented with 2.0mg/L BAP + 0.5mg/L Kn. The regenerated dwarf shoots were further elongated on MS medium supplemented with 0,5mg/L GA₃ In vitro shoots were excised from shoot clumps and transferred to rooting media containg 5.0mg/L NAA. The rooted plants were hardened on MS liquid medium and subsequently transferred into polycups containg sterile soil and vermiculate. Plants developed were successfully established and finally transferred to a green house. The in vitro regenerated plants showed high survival rate in the soil.

1 illus, 4 tables, 17 ref

012669   Kartik A;Bhattar S;Sarma A P (iochemistry Dep, S.V. Univ, Tirupati-517 502, Email: sarmabiochem@mail.com) : Cadmium induced alterations in the photochemical activities of the cyanobacterium, Spirulina platensis (NORDST.) GOM.. Bioscan 2009, 4(2), 247-50.

Experimental evidence shows cadmium induces alterations in photochemical activities at multiple sites. The concentration of cadmium at 0.6 mM is able to cause 55% loss in whole chain as well as 66 % in photosystem II catalyzed electron transfer activities in the intact cells of Spirulina. Compared to photosystem II, the activities catalyzed by photosystem I are less sensitive to cadmium stress. The measurement of photosystem II activity at different irradiations indicated light harvesting complex of photosystem II (Phycobilisomes) are targets for Cadmium induced alterations. Thus cadmium exerts multiple effects on the photosyrrthetic electron transfer in the cyanobacterium, Spirulina platensis and PS II gets inhibited preferentially than PS 1.

4 tables, 32 ref

012668   Karthikeyan K;Chandran C;Kulothungan S (Plant Tissue Culture Laboratory, P.G. and Research Dep of Botany and, A.V.V.M. Sri Pushpam College (Autonomous), Poondi-613 503, Email: karthikeyan19802001@yahoo.com) : In vitro flowering and rapid regeneration of Ocimum sanctum L.-a valuable medicinal herb. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 37-40.

In vitro flowering and an efficient micropropagation protocols were developed for the aromatic medicinal herb Ocimum sanctum (Lamiaceae) by the in vitro culture of nodal segments of mature plant. Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium supplemented with 2.0 mg/L 6-benzyl aminopurine (BAP) and 1.0 mg/L a-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) were found to develop fully functional flowers. MS medium supplemented with 2 mg/L BAP and 1 mg/L NAA induced an average of eight shoots per node and was the best for axillary bud proliferation. Subsequent cultures enhanced the number of shoots. Full strength MS solid medium with 1.5 mg/L indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) exhibited the best in vitro footing. Ninety five per cent of the rooted shoots survived when transferred to green house and subsequent to the field.

1 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

012667   Kar M;Jena P K;Misra P K (Botany Dep, Ravenshaw Univ, Cuttack, Orissa) : Some aspects of storage of betel leaves-a phytochemical study. Acta Cienc Indica-Chem 2009, 35(3), 435-8.

Changes in biochemical contents during storage was observed. The experimental material was ten different varieties of pan. It was found out that the ascorbic acid content of the leaves decreases on storage, whereas, the amount of vitamin-A increases. Nitrogen and protein content decreases and the phosphorus content increases on storage.

3 tables, 14 ref

012666   Kambale T;Patil B D (Botany Dep, Yashwantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Satara) : Soil mycoflora of Satara, Maharashtra. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 230-1.

Thirty-three species of fungi belonging to 13 genera were isolated from the soil samples of two different Citrus fields. The most common genera were Trichoderma, Aspergillus, Penicillium and Fusarium.

5 ref

012665   Kalidass C;Manickam V S (Centre for Biodiversity and Biotechnology, Botany Dep, St. Xavier's (Autonomous) College, Palayamkottai-2) : Rediscovery of Teucrium plectranthoides Gamble (Lamiaceae) from Western Ghats. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 549-51.

Teucrium plectranthoides Gamble (Lamiaceae), described in 1924, has been rediscovered after 50 years from Tirunelveli hills, Tamil Nadu. Detailed description with suitable illustrations is provided.

1 ref

012664   Joseph T S;Mathew M (Botnay Dep, St. Thomas College, Ranni, Pathanamthitta, Kerala) : Asexual reproduction in tropical medicinal plants. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 598-602.

Study was conducted on the asexual methods of reproduction in some selected tropical medicinal plants. Asexual methods of reproduction are common among monocotyledonous plants where sexual reproduction is less efficient in the studied plants due to the less amount of viable seeds, low seed germination percentage or long seed dormancy. Sexual and asexual processes are equally undertaking in the studied dicotyledonous plants which reproduce by seeds while reproducing asexually. Generally, it is noticed that asexual modes of reproduction weaken sexual process in all the studied plants. Herbaceous plants and climbers are more adopted to asexual methods of reproduction than shrubs and trees in both the classes. Describes the asexual methods of reproduction in tropical medicinal plants, such as Momordica dioica Roxb ex Willd., Piper spp., Dioscorea spp., Kalanchoe pinnata (Lam.) Pers., Nervilia arogoana Guad., Gloriosa superba L. and Curculigo orchioides Gaertn., which are growing in the State of Kerala, India.

15 ref

012663   Joseph T S;Mathew M (Botany Dep, St. Thomas College, Ranni, Pathanamthitta, Kerala) : Morphological variations, ecology and uses of Costus speciosus (Koen) Smith: the only known insulin plant in Kerala, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 594-7.

Costus speciosus (Koen) Smith is a traditional medicinal plant used in the treatment of various diseases in the State of Kerala, India. In recent years this plant has become popular in the State in traditional practice of medicine for the treatment of diabetes. Describes the habitat, growth pattern, morphological variations, reproduciton methods, ecology and uses of the so-called insulin plant growing in the Kerala State of India.

2 illus, 9 ref