012662   Jain R;Sinha A;Kachhwaha S;Kothari S L (Botany Dep, University of Rajasthan, Jaipur-302 004, Email: kothari-sl@uniraj.ernet.in) : Micropropagation of Withania coagulans (Stocks) Dunal: a critically endangered medicinal herb. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 249-52.

Efficient micropropagation protocol has been developed for Withania coagulans, a highly endangered medicinal herb and an important natural source of withanolides. Prolific multiplication of axillary buds occurred from the nodal segments taken from adult plant, and cultured on MS medium enriched with BA (0.5 mg l^{-1), Kn (0.5 mg l-1) and PG (0.5 mg l-1). Nodal segments and shoot tips of elongated microshoots also behaved the same way in cultures and formed multiple shoots through axillary bud multiplication. Addition of PG (0.5 mg l-1) in the regeneration medium significantly improved induction and elongation of shoot buds. Elongated shoots were placed on filter paper bridges soaked in MS medium with CC (10 mg l-1) and PG (0.5 mg l-1) for the initial 7 days' pulse treatment and thereafter, they were transferred to rooting medium containing IBA (0.25 mg l-1) + PAA (0.5 mg l-1) + CC (2 mg l-1). This protocol has the capacity of producing 1000 plants from one nodal segment after 4 subcultures of 2 weeks each.}

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

012661   Jadhav R K (Botany Dep, D.G. Ruparel College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Mahim, Mumbai-400 016) : Effect of deproteinised juice from Eichornia crassipe. L. on mitotic cell division. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 246-8.

Deproteinised leaf juice (DPJ) from Eichomia crassipes.L was used to observe its effect on cell division in Allium cepa.L and Allium sativum.L root tips.Chromosomal abberations like anaphasic bridges, micronuclei, unorientation, condensation etc during different stages of mitosis were recorded.

2 tables, 1 ref

012660   Jadhav P K (Botany Dep, D.G. Ruparel College of Arts, Commerce and Science, Mahim, Mumbai) : Phytotoxic effect of deproteinised leaf juice (DPJ) of lucerne (Medicago sativa L) on pea (Pisum sativum.L). Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 240-1.

1 table, 6 ref

012659   Jadhav L S;Pawar A B (Botany Dep, Yashavantrao Chavan Institute of Science, Satara-415 001) : Some ascomycetous fungi from Satara district (Maharashtra, India).. Bioinfolet 2009, 6(3), 208-12.

Deals with the study of 7 species of ascomycetous fungi belonging to the order-Dothideales (Loculoascomycetes). These are Didymella umbelliferacum Bauml., Mycosphaerella euphorbiae Nissler ex Sehrot (Mycosphaerellaceae), Dictyothyrium hironymi (Rehm.) Bat., Micropeltis aqualies Syd., M. erysiphoides Rehm. and Hedw., M. umblicate Mont, and Stomiopeltis suttoniae (Mendoza) Luttrell (Micropeltidaceae) belonging to Pseudosphaeriinae. All these fungi have been collected on different angiospermic hosts from different localities of Western Ghats. These 7 species have been recorded for the first time from India.

22 illus, 15 ref

012658   Ingole S (NO, Bar. R.D.I.K. and N.K.D. College, Badnera, Amravati, Maharashtra) : Floristic enumeration of southern region of Amravati district. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 701-10.

Amravati district is a part of Vidarbha in Maharashtra State located in its north region. Its southern region receives little attention regarding floristic work. The study deals with floristic account of flowering plants found in southern region of Amravati district. A total number of 159 species belonging to 129 genera of 44 families have been recorded. Besides current botanical names, local names, habit and phenology have also been given for almost each taxon.

10 ref

012657   Hynniewta L;Pinokiyo A;Syiem M B (Biochemistry Dep, North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong-793 022, Email: mayashreesyiem@yahoo.co.in) : Identification and documentation of two previously unreported foliose lichens from Meghalaya, north-east India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 589-93.

Heterodermia boryi (Fee) K. Singh and S. Singh and Everniastrum napalense (Taylor) Hale ex Sipman have been reported for the first time from lower temperate forests of Meghalaya. Apart from their traditional uses, such as treatment of tooth-ache, soreness of throat and pain as well as use as spice for flavoring non-vegetarian food preparations, these lichens have chemicals that are antifungal and antimycobacterial.

1 illus, 27 ref

012656   Fujita K;Matsuoka T;Suzuki S;Takayanagi T (Fruit Genetic Engineering Lab, The Institute of Enology and Viticulture, University of Yamanashi, Kofu, Yamanashi 400-0005, Email: suzukis@yamanashi.ac.jp) : In planta transformation techniques for grapevines (Vitis vinifera L) using dormant buds. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 161-7.

Plant regeneration using the genetic transformation method often induces somatic mutation as well as epigenetic alteration. In addition, methods commonly used for grapevine (Vitis vinifera L) transformations are time-consuming due to the long reproductive cycle of the grapevine. Therefore, an improved method is needed for more efficient grapevine transformation. Five transformants (three for Chardonnay and two for Cabernet Sauvignon) were obtained by inoculation of dormant buds on cuttings with Agrobacterium tumefaciens harbouring a pBI121 binary vector. All of the transformants expressed β-glucuronidase (GUS) transcripts constitutively in all expanding leaves from the Agrobacterium-inoculated buds. Histochemical analysis showed that the transformants expressed GUS in the vascular bundle system. Demonstrates an alternative in planta transformation method for grapevines using dormant buds. Genetically modified grapevines could be obtained simply and rapidly with this method. In addition, this method avoids the tissue culture step that can cause somatic mutations, suggesting that the biological and physiological functions of transgene products could be accurately estimated in transgenic grapevines created by this new method.

4 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref

012655   Dorcas M;Johnson M E C;Nehru G S B (NO, , 14-77, Old Merjalguda, Malkajgiri, Hyderabad-500 047, Email: dorcasbot@gmail.com) : Rhizosphere mycoflora of Euphorbia geniculata and Euphorbia hirta. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 143-5.

In the study about 47 fungal spices were isolated from the rhizosphere of two genera of the family of Euphorbiaceae. More number of fungal species was recorded in the rhizosphere when compared to Non-rhizosphere soils.

1 table, 9 ref

012654   Dey N;Banerjee B;Ghatak A (Post-Graduate Botany Dep, Darjeeling Government College, Darjeeling-734 101, Email: narottamdey@yahoo.com) : Three efficient heterocyst bearing nitrogen fixing blue-green algae from rice field of Bankura district, the Rarh Bengal. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 677-81.

Purpose of the study was to identify the heterocyst bearing nitrogen fixing Blue-green algae from a rice field in a locality of Bankura district, West Bengal. Three such Blue-green algal species (Cylindrospermum majus Kutz. ex Born. & Flah., Anabaena oryzae Fritisch., Nostoc commune Vaucher ex Born. & Flah.) were identified and morpho-taxonomically characterized.

1 illus, 31 ref

012653   Deori C;Sarma S K;Hynniewta T M (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Circle, Shillong-793 003) : Distribution of Dendrobium species found in north east region of India in different climatic zones with respect to altitude. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 635-42.

Describes the distribution of 84 Dendrobium spp. found in North East region of India in different climatic zones with respect to altitude ranging up to 5000 m. The highest number of species occurred in sub-tropical zone with 69 (82.14%) spp., followed by tropical zone with 50 (59.52%.) spp. and temperate zone with 15 (17.86%) spp. respectively. No species were observed in sub-alpine and alpine zones. Of the total 84 spp., 45 (53.57%) spp. showed high ecological amplitude, of which 5 (11.11%) spp. showed very high ecological amplitude. On the other hand 39 (46.43%) spp. showed very low ecological amplitude.

2 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

012652   Deb C R;Sungkumlong (Botany Div, Nagaland University, Lumami Mokokchung-788 601, Email: debchitta@rediffmail.com) : Rapid multiplication and induction of early in vitro flowering in Dendrobium primulinum Lindl. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 241-4.

Dendrobium primulinum is an important epiphytic orchid. A successful protocol for mass multiplication and early in vitro flowering was developed. Immature embryos of 4 week after pollination exhibited about 96% germination within 30 days of culture on MS medium containing sucrose (3%) (w/v), NAA and BA (6 and 9 μM) in combination. Protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) formed from the germinating seeds on the germination medium. Rooted plantlets were formed within 2-3 wk on MS medium containing sucrose (3%), NAA and BA (3 and 12 μM in combination) where about 29 shoot/buds produced per cycle of 4 wk interval. The well rooted plantlets produced 4-5 floral buds per spike when they were maintained on MS medium containing sucrose (3%), fresh apple juice (10%) (v/v) for four wk followed by on MS medium freed of apple juice but enriched with NAA and BA (3 and 12 μM respectively). The hardened plantlets were transferred to community potting mix where the about 80% transplants survived after two months of transfer.

^ssc1 illus, 2 tables, 13 ref

012651   Chauhan D K;Tripathi D K;Sinha P;Tiwari S P (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002, Email: 1.dkchauhanau@yahoo.com) : Biogenic silica in some pteridophytes. Bionature 2009, 29(1), 1-9.

Biogenic silica is being deposited in the form of flat sheets over the epidermal cells or three dimensional infillings of cavities within and between the cells of certain plants. These silica bodies are called phytoliths which are formed due to the uptake of dissolved monosilicic acid in soil water during growth of the plants. In the present study we have investigated the silica deposition pattern in certain Pteridophytes viz., Lycopodium clavatum L. Selaginella bryopteris L. Actiniopteris australis (L. Fil.) Link, Adiantum caudatum L. A. philippense L. A. peruvianum KL. A. venustum Don, Cyathea gigentea (Wallex Hook.) Holtt, Doryopteris sagittifolia (Raddi) J. Sm., Drynaria quercifola (L) J. Sm, Gleichenia microphylla R.Br, Hemionites arifolia (Burm.) Moore, Lygodium flexuosum (L.) Sw. and Pteris vittata, L. These Pteridophytes show silicified epidermis, stomata trichomes, sclereids and tracheids. Silica is also deposited in the cells of the sporangium and sporoderm of spores of certain ferns. Silicified casts of epidermal, palisade and mesophyll cells of pinnules of certain ferns are also reported. Silica deposition is very characteristic in some Pteridophytes which are very important for the reconstruction of the early history of these plants. The importance of silica deposition in Pteridophytes is also emphasized.

87 illus, 19 ref

012650   Chaturvedi Y;Tewari A K;Upadhyaya P P; Prabhuji S K;Rao G P (NO, Sugarcane Research Station, Kunraghat, Gorakhpur-273 008, Email: yamini.chaturvedi@rediffmail.com) : Association of Candidatus phytoplasma asteris with little leaf and phyllody disease of Catharanthus roseus in eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Med Pl 2009, 1(2), 103-8.

During survey in 2006-2007 seasons at Gorakhpur, Eastern U.P., Catharanthus plants showed typical extensive chlorosis, proliferation of axillary shoots, bushy growing habit, small leaves, phyllody and stunting of the entire plants. DNA from phytoplasma symptomatic infected plants was extracted and amplification of phytoplasmal ribosomal DNA (rDNA) was done with the universal phytoplasma primer pairs P1/P6 and R16F2n/R16R2. All the five symptomatic Catharanthus plants examined tested phytoplasma positive in PCR and nested PCR assays in which a 1.5 kb and 1.2 kb fragment was consistently amplified from all the infected samples. Neither by direct (`one-round') nor by nested PCR assays was DNA amplified from template DNA isolated from any of the healthy non-symptomatic samples. The 1.2 kb amplicon obtained from nested PCR was cloned, sequenced and partial sequence were deposited in GenBank with Accession Number: EU694019. BLAST search analysis of EU694109 revealed 99% sequence similarity of 16Sr RNA gene sequence of the Catharanthus phytoplasma in the study with those of phytoplasma members of 16SrI group, `Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris' associated with Aster phytoplasma (AY265209, AF322645), Scaphytopius phytoplasma (AY180952, AY180943), Nasturtium phytoplasma (AY665676), Periwinkle phytoplasma (EU727085) and Parthenium phytoplasma (EU375485, EU375488).Therefore, the C. roseus phytoplasma in the study was identified as an isolate of 16SrI group.

4 illus, 1 table, 31 ref

012649   Chattopadhyay S P;Paria N D (Taxonomy Lab, Botany Dep, University of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 019) : Biological spectrum of flora of Hazaribagh district, Jharkhand (India). J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 733-8.

Life-forms of the vegetation and biological spectrum of the flora of Hazaribagh District, Jharªkhand have been determined. The comparison of the obtained biological spectrum with the normal spectrum of Raunkiaer (1934) revealed that the per cent value of therophytes is much higher than that of any other life-form in the obtained spectrum and it is more than twice and half of normal spectrum. This indicates the therophytic phytoclimate of the district. This is contrary to Raunkiaer's hypothesis. The predominance of therophytes over phanerophytes and nanophanerophytes is probably due to human action in disturbing the vegetation, clearing of forests and utilisation of forest lands for cultivation and urbanisation, and grazing by livestocks.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

012648   Chakrabarty T;Balakrishnan N P (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Western Cirlce, 7 Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001, Email: tchakrab@gmail.com) : Transfer of Indian species of Breynia, Glochidion and Sauropus to Phyllanthus (Phyllanthaceae) - new combinations and new names. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 712-16.

Species of the genera Breynia J.R. & G. Forst, Glochidion J.R. & G. Forst. and Sauropus Blume, occurring in Indian subcontinent are transferred to the genus Phyllanthus L.

2 ref

012647   Chakrabarty T;Balakrishnan N P (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Western Circle, 7 Koregaon Road, Pune-411 001) : Family euphorbfiaceae in Sikkim State, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 483-539.

Systematic treatment of the family Euphorbiaceae of Sikkim State covering 35 genera and 97 species is presented with keys to the genera and species. For each species nomenclature, relevant references, concise description, flowering & fruiting period, local names (if, any), and habit & habitat are included. Only a feww selected specimens for each taxon are cited.

012646   Bhati T J;Mulani R M (Botany Dep, Sheth L.U. Jhaveri & Sri M.V. College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Andheri East, Mumbai-400 069, Email: tej_prakash2005@yahoo.co.in) : Antioxidant, nutritive and physicochemical evaluation in unripe fruits of Carissa congesta Wt.. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 603-6.

Unripe fruits of Carissa congesta Wt. are being sold in local market in Mumbai which are mainly used in makng pickles. Deals with the physicochemical, antioxidant and nutritive evaluation of fresh unripe fruits, mainly moistutre, ash, carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, fibers and vitamins. The fruits were also assessed for macro and micro nutrients like calcium, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. The antioxidant compound such as polyphenols and ascorbic acid, were also observed in good amount in raw fruits.

6 illus, 14 ref

012645   Benazir J F;Mathithumilan B;Ravichandran P; Jochebed V;Suganthi R;Manmekalai V (Plant Developmental Biology and Biotechnology Div, Sriparamkalyani Center for Environmental Sciences (SPKCES), Alwarkurichi-627 412, Email: fathima.benazir@gmail.com) : In vitro regeneration of mat sedge (Cyperus pangorei Rottb). J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 209-15.

In vitro protocol was developed for regeneration of Cyperus pangorei that may supplement enough raw materials for the mat weaving community. Callus was initiated from inflorescence explants on Murashige and Skoog's (MS) medium supplemented with 5 and 10 μM each of 2, 4-D, 2, 4, 5- T and CPA. Development of numerous de novo spikelets from immature inflorescence explants grown in (10 μM) 2, 4, 5-T was observed. MS with 5 μM Kn and 100 ml l^{01 Coconut milk (CM) promoted shoot regeneration from calli. Calli from 2,4-D and CPA medium sub-cultured on medium containing 5 μM BAP, 5 μM Kn, 1 μM IAA and 100 ml l-1 CM produced extensive and rapid rhizogenesis with wiry and scaly roots. Micropropagation using rhizome buds on MS medium with BAP, Kn and Zeatin at 10 μM concentrations resulted in shoot release and multiplication by breaking the bud dormancy. An average of 10 shoots per explant was produced in 10 μM BAP, whereas (10 μM) Kn and (10 μM) Zeatin induced only single shoot formation. The shoots were transferred to rooting media comprising 10 μM IAA with 1 μM BAP or Kn and then acclimatized. The results accomplished were found to be useful in developing a complete in vitro regeneration protocol towards the mass production of Cyperus species, which may provide a basis for further genetic improvements that may prove its use as an alternative natural fibre resource in commercial applications.}

3 illus, 1 table, 23 ref

012644   Baruah A;Nath S C (Phytodiversity Research Cell, Botany Dep, Darrang College (GU), Tezpur-784 001) : Cinnamomum asomicum Nath & Baruah (Laruaceae). J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 711.

1 ref

012643   Baruah A;Nath S C (Botany Dep, Darrang College (DU), Tezpur-784 001) : Foliar epidermal characters of some chemical races of aromatic plants with emphasis to their taxonomy. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 557-73.

Foliar epidermal characters, both qualitative (epidermal cell and cell wall nature, stomata and trichome types) and quantitative length and breath of epidermal cells and stomata, number of epidermal cells and stomata per mm and stomatal index) of twenty four chemical races or chemotypes belonging to Cinnamomum verum Presl., C. tamala (Spreng.) Nees & Eberm., C. sulphuratum Nees, C. bejolghota (Buch.-Ham.) Sweet., C. camphora (L.) Presl, Litsea cubeba (Lour.) Pers., Clausena heptaphylla Roxb. W. & A., Ocimum basilium L. and Cymbopogon flexuosus (Nees ex Steud.) Wats. were studied. The investigated characters are found to be helpful in distinguishing the chemical races studied for two chemotypes each of Cinnamomum verum, C. tamala, C. bejolghota and Litsea cubeba. However, these characters are helpful only in grouping the four chemotypes of Cinnamomum sulphuratum under two major categories containing two chemotypes each of equal rank. Likewise, among the four chemotypes studied for Cymbopogon flexuosus, only the methyl eugenol type can be easily distinguished from rest of the three with the help of these characters. In contrast, the Ocimum basilicum chemotypes, the chemotypes belonging to each groups of Cinnamomum sulphuratum and the three chemotypes of Cymbopogon flexuosus except its methyl eugenol type can be distinguishable only when their quantitative characters are considered. Likewise, these characters, except hairs, have no significant role in distinguishing the camphor and cineole types of Cinnamomum camphora. Similarly, the studied chemotypes belonging to Clausena heptaphylla can be easily distinguished only with the help of presence or absence of hairs in coastal regions of their leaves and epidermal cell wall nature. The individul identity of the benzyl benzoate type of Cinnamomum verum, linalool type of C. tamala, α-phellandrene-linalool-linalyl acetate type of C. bejolghota, linaloolªcitronellol-citronellal type of Litdrsea cubeba and Cymbopogon flexuosus chemotypes except citral types as indicated by the investigation are evidenced further by their existing nomenclatural confusions. The study will highlight the taxonomic status of the chemical races in the light of present findings evidenced by their macromorphological and chemical Characters.

53 ref

012642   Baruah A (Phytodiversity Research Cell, Botany Dep, Darrang College, Tezpur-784 001, Email: drakhilbaruah@yahoo.co.in) : Vegetative propagation of two species of Cinnamomum Schaeffer. Med Pl 2009, 1(2), 121-3.

Vegetative propagation studies of Cinnamomum asomicum Nath & Baruah and C. impressinervium Meissn have been done. The cuttings (current year lateral shoots) of both the species exhibited 100% rooting at 90 days intervals. The regeneration techniques developed in the investigation provides a good deal of protocol, for multiplication of these two new and promising species of Cinnamomum through stem cuttings.

^ssc1 table, 9 ref

012641   Balachandran N;Maheswaran B;Chakrabarty T (NO, Auroville Hebarium, Shakti, Auroville-605 101, Email: nbala_plant@yahoo.co.in) : New variety of Actephila excelsa (Dalzell) Muell.-Arg. (Euphorbiaceae) from north Andaman Islands. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 717-18.

New variety of Actephila excelsa (Dalzell) Muell.-Arg is described with illustration from North Andaman Island, India.

1 illus, 1 ref

012640   Balachandran N;Chakrabarty T (NO, Auroville Herbarium, Shakti, Auroville-605 101, Email: nbala_plant@yahoo.co.in) : New species of Bhesa Ham. ex Arn. (Celastraceae) from the Andaman Islands, India. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 719-20.

New species, Bhesa andamanica N. Balachandran & Chakrab. is described from the Tarmugli Island, South Andamans, India.

1 illus, 2 ref

012639   Arumugam S;Chu F H;Wang S Y;Chang S T (NO, School of Forestry and Resource Conservation, National Taiwan Universi, Taipei 106, Taiwan, Email: peter@ntu.edu.tw) : In vitro plant regeneration from immature leaflets derived callus of Acacia confusa Merr via organogenesis. J Pl Biochem Biotechnol 2009, 18(2), 197-201.

Efficient plant regeneration system was established from immature leaflet-derived callus of Acacia confusa Merr, through organogenesis. Under optimized culture conditions, the high rate of callus induction and proliferation was obtained in 35 days on MMS medium supplemented with 2,4-D (3 mg l^{-1) + NAA (0.01 mg l-1) + Kin (0.05 mg l-1). The highest percentage of shoot regeneration response (95%) and greatest number of shoots (52.9) were obtained after the 46-day transfer of green nodular calli onto the shoot regeneration medium (WPM) supplemented with the BA 3 mg l-1 + NAA 0.05 mg l-1 + Zeatin 0.1 mg l-1 + AdSO₄ 5 mg l-1 combination. Efficient shoot elongation was achieved by transferring the clusters of adventitious shoot buds to medium (half-strength MS) containing GA₃ (1 mg l-1) and BA (0.05 mg l-1), within 30 days. The elongated shoots were rooted on half-strength MS medium supplemented with 4 mg l-1IBA and 0.05 mg l-1 Kin in the 42-day culture. Rooted plantlets were hardened and successfully established in soil. The field-established plants were morphologically normal and fertile.}

1 illus, 3 tables, 29 ref

012638   Anil Kumar;Yadav D K (Ethnobotany Lab, Botany Dep, Magadh University, Bodh-Gaya-824 234) : Significance of ethno-medicinal plants as herbal cosmetics. J Econ Taxon Bot 2009, 33(3), 621-3.

Indigenous knowledge of resource management in modern cosmetics is becoming relevant gradually. A combintion of qualitatively ecological, ethno-hygienic and ethnographic methods may prove effective in evaluating poorly known but economically and ethno-medicinally important plant species. An attempt has been made to assess the role of ethno-medicinal plants as herbal cosmetic and their preventive and promotive effects on the skin and hair.

5 ref

012637   Akhtar A (NO, , Hamza 147, R K Nagar, Bran Road, Kota-324 001, Email: akhtarazra@yahoo.com) : Plant growth and yield of tomato in soil amended with coal fly ash. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 231-3.

Burning coal for energy produces a by product known as fly ash. Fly ash is not currently related as hazardous material, it was evaluated for use in agriculture as nutrient supplement during pot experiments on tomato. Fly ash contains several minerals needed for plant growth and has a high surface tension and high water holding capacity. Plants were grown in fly ash amended soil at different treatment levels. The various treatments were control (soil without fly ash), 20%, 40% and 60% of fly ash mixed with soil respectively. A significant increase in plant growth and yield of fruits was observed at 40% amendment over control. Plant height and productivity decreased as fly ash percentage increased in soil (60% fly ash amended soil). The result of this study indicate that coal fly ash could be beneficial to typical plant growth if it is applied at an adequate rate and to an acceptable medium.

3 tables, 12 ref

012636   Agasthya A S;Jayapal N;Naveenkumar E;Rajendra Goud N;Vijayanand;Hemapriya J (Microbiology Dep, Administrative Management College, Kalkere, Bannerghatta Road, Bangalore-560 083, Email: annapurna_agasthya@yahoo.co.in) : In vitro study of antimicrobial activity of the south Indian spices against enteric pathogens. Asian J Microbiol Biotechnol envir Sci 2009, 11(1), 173-80.

This work was carried out from June to September 2007. The present study was designed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity of the extract taken from the South Indian spices namely Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum), Cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum), Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Turmeric (Curcuma domestica), Cumin (Cuminum cyminum), Garlic (Allium sativum), Onion (Allium cepa), Coriander seeds (Conundrum sativum), and Black pepper (Pepper nigrum) against six Gram negative enteric bacteria which are the potent food borne pathogens, i.e., Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Salmonella paratyphi A, Salmonella paratyphi B, Brucella abortus and Brucella melitensis. In the later phase the inhibitory effect of these spices in combination was subjected for the antibacterial activity against the same pathogenic bacteria. In addition to this, the inhibitory effect was compared with that of five antibiotics (Ciprofloxacin, Chloramphenicol, Tetracycline, Streptomycin and Nalidixic acid). The study revealed that garlic extract (E7) was active against all the food pathogens. Cardamom extract (El) showed excellent antibacterial activity against Brucella abortus, Brucella melitensis and Escherichia coli. The extract from cinnamon (E2)) was active against Brucella melitensis. Turmeric extract (E6) and pepper (E3) were active against Brucella abortus and Escherichia coli. Clove extract (E5) was active against all pathogens except Salmonella typhi. Extracts from Coriander (E9), Onion (E4), Cumin (E8) and Ginger (E10)) had no antibacterial activity.

7 tables, 25 ref

011756   Vinay Kumar;Usmani S K;Shrivastava J N (Botany Dep, Dyalbagh Educational Institute, Dayalbagh, Agra-282 005, Email: janendra.srivastava@gmail.com) : Antifungal activity of Spirulina platensis (Geitler) against some human pathogenic fungi. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 83-9.

Present study has undertaken effectiveness of Spirulina platensis in different solvent (Petroleum ether, Chloroform, Acetone, Methanol) extract against three dermatophytic fungi namely Aspergillus fumigatus, A. niger, Candida albicans. The methanolic extract of S. platensis showed significant activity against A. fumigatus. Therefore, the antifungal activity of methanolic extract of S. platensis against A. fumigatus was determined by different methods as Agar-well diffusion method, paper disc diffusion method, MIC (Minimal Inhibitory Concentration) and reduction in mycelial weight of fungi. Present study confirmed the potential use of S. platensis extract as a source of antifungal compound against fungal disease.

4 illus, 1 table, 20 ref

011755   Tripathi U;Basu M (Botany Dep, Allahabad Univ, Allahabad-211 002) : Biodiversity in higher basidiomycetous fungi of Allahabad. J mycopathol Res 2009, 47(2), 129-35.

Basidiomycetous fungi growing in Allahabad and its adjoining areas were collected during the period of 2002 to 2005 recorded and identified. Altogether 18 genera of Hymenomycetes and 4 genera of Gasteromycetes were identified. Most of the fungi were found to grow on soil or under large trees with spreading roots.

3 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

011754   Toppo K;Suseela M R (Phycology Laboratory, National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow-226 001) : Cosmarium diversity of mani pokhar pond of Jashpur district in Chhattisgarh State, India. Ann For 2009, 17(1), 117-24.

Deals with the morpho-taxonomic enumeration of 28 species of Cosmartum from Mani Pokhar Pond of Jashpur District in Chhattisgarh. All these species have been recorded for the first time from this part of the state.

2 tables, 15 ref

011753   Thaware J;Saoji A A (Botany Dep, S.K. Porwal College, Kamptee, Dist. Nagpur) : In vivo germination of pollen grains. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 123-5.

Deals with in vivo germination of pollen grains of Catharanthus roseus, Allamanda cathartica, Datura metal, Brassicajuncea, Raphanus sativus and Cleome viscosa. Vinca, Allamanda and Cleome stigmas were wet, where as Brassica and Raphanus were with pappilate stigmas having finger like projections. Datura metal stigma was wet and non-pappilate. Observation on in vivo germination revealed variation in receptivity of stigmats.

1 table, 4 ref

011752   Thakur S;Tiwari A (School of Studies in Botany, Jiwaji Univ, Gwalior-474 011, Email: tiwariavinash2@rediffmail.com) : Community interaction for conservation of Chlorophytum tuberosum in the forests of mandu, Madhya radesh. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 91-107.

Chlorophytum tuberosum growing in natural forests of Mandu was studied on the basis of community dynamics, relative frequency, relative density, relative dominance and Importance Value Index (IVI) from two different sites in the forests of Mandu. A phytograph was also prepared. The phytosociological parameters projected that Chlorophytum tuberosum has a high value of relative frequency, relative density, relative dominance and IVI value in the community. For true conservation of Chlorophytum tuberosum, the species like Curculigo orchioides, Pachystoma senile, Ageratum conyzoides should also be conserved along with Chlorophytum tuberosum.

2 tables, 5 ref

011751   Suryaanshi K T;Sawant D M;Navale A M;Deokar C D (Plant Pathology and Agril. Microbiology Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722) : Pathogens associates with fruit of pomegranete (Punica granatum L.). Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 158-60.

The fungal pathogens of pomegranate fruits were identified as Alternaria alternata fr. Keissler and Curvularia lunata (Wakk.) Boedijn. Growth and abundant sporulation of A.alternata was observed on Sabouraud's dextrose agar while that of C. lunata on Richard's agar media. Propiconazole inhibited growth and sporulation of both fungi.

2 tables, 5 ref

011750   Singh A P;Chaudhary B R (Centre of Advanced Stidy in Botany, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: brchaudhary.bhu@gmail.com) : Effect of 2,4-D on the formation and germination of akinetes in Pithophora oedogonia (Mont.) Wittrock. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 67-70.

Pithophora oedogonia (Mont.) Wittrock (1877), the filamentous green alga was studied by several workers, and contradictory reports exist on spore formation and spore germination in this alga (cf. Agrawal and Sarma, 1983 & Agrawal and Chaudhary, 1988). The present study aims at evaluating the impact of the herbicide 2, 4-Dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2, 4-D) on the sporulation and akinete germination with a view to evolving strategy for the control of this algal weed causing nuisance in natural water bodies. The study revealed that 2, 4-D at concentrations ranging from 0.1-20 ppm in BBM nutrient solution or agarized medium, the initiation of sporulation showed progressive delay with concomitant decrease in the germination of akinetes. 2, 4-D at and above 30 ppm cone, proved lethal to the alga inhibiting spore formation and germination of the akinetes already developed.

2 tables, 10 ref

011749   Simon S;Anamika;Verma S (Plant Pathology Dep, Allahabad Agricultural Institute - Deemed Univ, Allahabad-211 007) : Invitro evaluation of some weed plants extract on Heterodera cajani Koshy (1967) of cowpea. Allahabad Fmr 2009, 65(1), 71-5.

Study under glass house conditions indicated that botanical extracts are very effective to control the growth of cyst nematode, Heterodera cajani. The effect of Cynodon dactylon, Parthenium spp., Solanum nigrum, Croton tiglium, Cyprus rotundus, Argemone mexicana and Calotropis procera leaf extract was tested on cowpea against cyst nematode and it was effective in reducing the population of Heterodera cajani. Among all the selected weeds, Argemone mexicana is more effective than other plant extracts. Hence per experimental observations they can be used as nematicides to reduce the chemical nematicides which make environment free from pollution.

7 ref

011748   Sidhu M C;Namita;Kumari S;Azad N (Botany Dep, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: mcsidhu@hotmail.com) : Chromosomal manifestation in ten selected members of family Asteraceae from Chandigarh (India). Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 51-7.

Ten species {Chrysanthemum coronarium L., Calendula officinalis L., Eclipta alba Hassk., Launaea nudicaulis (L.) Hook, f., Lactuca sativa L., Saussurea candicans Clarke, Silybum marianum (L.) Gertn., Tridax procumbens L., Vernonia cinerea (L.) Less, and Youngia japonica (L.) DC.} of family Asteraceae were examined for their chromosome number, pairing behaviour, ploidy level and meiotic irregularities. The basic chromosome number in these species varied from x = 7 to 18. Meiotic abnormalities in the form of quadrivalents/univalents and unequal distribution at anaphase stage have been observed. Results have been evaluated and discussed.

10 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

011747   Shrivastava S K;Shukla D S;Shukla H;athak M; Tewari J P (Botany Dep, MLK, (PG) College, Balrampur, 1&2. Dep of Botany, Kisan PG College, Bahraich) : Effect of storage period on seed viability of Jatropha curcas L.. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 121-3.

Jatropha curcas L. (physic nut) is an important biofuel crop. It belongs to family Euphorbiaceae. In the present study, seed viability of different storage periods have been tested by germination as well as by tetrazolium test methods. The results show maximum viability in the seeds of 1 year storage period seeds while minimum viability was recorded in the seeds of 4 year storage period.

2 tables, 7 ref

011746   Shivakumar S L;Asma S;Karigar C S (Biochemistry Dep, Central College Campus, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 001, Email: karigar@bub.ernet.in) : Phytochemical distribution profile among Solanaceae members. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 59-66.

The Solanum genus members belonging to Solanaceae family contain several secondary metabolites distributed in their organs. Present attempt is to know the distribution and quantification of various phytochemicals such as total phenols, tannins and alkaloids. The extracts prepared from root, stem and leaves of Datura stramonium. Solanum nigrum, Solatium melongena. Capsicum anum and Lycopersicon esculentum have been subjected to qualitative and quantitative analysis. The results showed varying distribution profiles of the phytochemicals investigated. The root samples of S. nigrum, S. melongena, C. anum and L. esculentum are qualitatively rich in alkaloids whereas Datura stramonium was found to contain the alkaloids in the root, stem and leaf samples. The quantitative analysis for phytochemicals established that the arial parts of C. anum, L. esculentum and D. stromium contained more phenolics and tannins than their corresponding roots.

2 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

011745   Sharma N;Sharma K (Microbial Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, MLS Univ, Udaipur-313 001, Email: naveenbiotechster@gmail.com) : Antifungal activity of Origanum majorana L. against some deteuromycetes fungi. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 101-5.

Leaves and inflorescence extracts of Origanum majorana L a medicinal herb of Labiatae were screened for antifungal activity against some deteuromycetes fungi viz. Rhizoctonia solani, Fusarium solani, Fusarium moniliformae, Helminthosporium halodes, Drechslera graminea, Alterneria solani, Curvularia lunata. Crude and hot extracts of both plant parts were prepared in different organic solvent, which were subsequently recycled by vacuum evaporator. Antifungal activity of different fractions was determined by agar well diffusion method. Maximum percent extractive value was observed with alcoholic extract of inflorescence and methanolic extract of leaves. Maximum inhibitory effect of both extract was observed against Rhizoctonia solani. Results suggests that Origanum majorana L. leaves and inflorescence extract can be used to develop a biocontrol agent against Rhizoctonia solani.

7 tables, 19 ref

011744   Sharma K (Botany Dep, Arts and Commerce Girls College, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Soil mycoflora of Darjeeling tea garden, India. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 142-3.

Mycoflora of soil from tea garden of Darjeeling was studied during summer, 2009. A total of 16 fungi were isolated. Aspergillus fumigatus (14.94%), showed maximum percentage contribution followed by A. flavus (12.64%). The maximum fungal species belonged to Ascomycotina.

1 table, 2 ref

011743   Sharma G;Tripathi S C (PG Studies and Research in Botany Dep, Kisan P.G. College, Bahraich, Uttar Pradesh) : Different mycoflora responsible for fruit rot of Capsicum annum L. (var. grossum) in Bahraich district of UP. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 17-18.

The present communication deals with the study of fruit rot disease of sweet pepper/bell pepper in the terai district Bahraich, U.P., where it is generally grown for vegetable purposes. This disease is responsible for a remarkable loss both in yield and quality. Extensive survey to crop field of different villages were made viz. Basantapur, Buddha resort campus (village Basantapur), Gazpatipur, Keshwapur, Sesaihaider including vegetable markets of city. Diseased fruits were collected and were brought to the laboratory, symptoms of disease were studied and recorded. Associated mycoflora were isolated using pure culture of C.A. (Carrot Agar), pathogenicity test was performed and Colletotrichum capsici, Fusarium solani, Alternaria tennis and Aspergillus flavus were found associated with fruit rot disease.

6 ref

011742   Sharma A K;Yadav A S;Raghuwanshi D K;Mir F A; Lone S A;Rai A K (Molecular Biology and Seed Technology Laboratory, Govt Motilal Vigyan Mahavidyalaya (MVM), Bhopal-462 008, Email: asyadav4@rediffmail.com) : Improved protocol for rapid, efficient and high frequency regeneration of Glycyrrhiza glabra L.. Asian J expl Sci 2010, 24(1), 75-80.

Procedures for rapid, efficient and high frequency regeneration of a Glycyrrhiza glabra L. using young leaf and shoot tips explants via callus mediated shoot regeneration. This was achieved on MS medium fortified with BAP and NAA within four weeks of inoculation. Normally, shoot tip explants gave rise to 3-4 shoots with organogenic callus, while leaf explant was found to be highly amenable to in vitro callus culture. A high yield of shoots (18 and 24 shoots per explant) was achieved by sub culturing the in vitro raised shoots tip and leaf segment on the medium supplemented with BAP (5.0 mgl') and NAA (1.25 mgl-1)- This medium proved to be more effective for callus mediated shoot regeneration. On an average, within a period of three subcultures, both, leaf and shoot tips explants generated 210, 84 shoots, respectively. Elongation of shoots and subsequent root induction were achieved on MS (half basal) medium supplemented with NAA (1.0 mgl^{-1) or 2.0 mgl-1 IAA. Rooted plantlets were transplanted in potting mixture under controlled polyhouse conditions for hardening and acclimatization followed by their successful establishment in the field.}

8 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

011741   Shanthi G;Sivakumari V (NO, Kunthavai Nacchiyar Government Arts College for Women, Thanjavur-613 007, Email: vsiva246021@yahoo.com) : Effect of stress response on identification, characterization and metabolism of green algae. Bull Bio Sci 2009, 7(1), 19-24.

Investigation is an attempt effect of stress response on the isolation, characterization and metabolic activity of green algae. The green algae viz., Chlorella and Scenedesmus were characterized by their morphology, motility and biochemical test (citrate utilization test, urease and triple sugar iron test) were analyzed. The metabolism of this organism viz., pigment composition, total carbohydrate, protein, nitrite reductse activity was estimated before and after amendment of NaCI and KCI.

9 tables, 15 ref

011740   Shaikh S D;Dongare M (Botany Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Ecological studies on some weed species of Kolhapur (M.S.). Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 116-17.

1 table

011739   Sen S;Mukherji S (Botany Dep, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019) : Season-controlled changes in biochemical constituents and oxidase enzyme activities in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). J envir Biol 2009, 30(4), 479-83.

Season-controlled changes in biochemical constituents viz, carotenoids (carotene and xanthophyll) andpectic substances along with lAA-oxidase and polyphenol oxidase (PPO) enzyme activities were estimated/assayed in leaves of Lycopersicon esculentum Mill, (tomato) in two developmental stages-pre-flowering (35 days after sowing) and post- flowering (75 days after sowing) in three different seasons - summer, rainy and winter. Carotenoid content along with pectic substances were highest in winter and declined significantly in summer followed by rainy i.e. winter<summer<rainy. Carotenoid content was significantly higher in thepre- flowering as compared to post-flowering in all three seasons while pectic substances increased in the post- flowering as compared to pre- flowering throughout the annual cycle. IAA oxidase and PPO enzyme activities were enhanced in rainy and decreased sharply in summer and winter i. e. rainy>summer> winter. Both the enzymes exhibited higher activity in the post- flowering stage as compared to pre- flowering in all three seasons. These results indicate winter to be the most favourable season for tomato plants while rainy season environmental conditions prove to be unfavourable (stressful) with diminished content ofcarotenoid andpectic substances and low activities of IAA oxidase and PPO, ultimately leading to poor growth and productivity.

5 illus, 1 table, 33 ref

011738   Semwal I M;Katiyar S;Mukesh Kumar (Botany Dep, DBS (PG) College, Gobind Nagar, Kanpur-208 006) : Ecological distribution of some epiphytic ferns of Garhwal hills, Uttarakhand. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 75-81.

The ferns inhabit hills and the altitude play a significant role in determining the species distribution. It is interesting that among the epiphytes, polypods are dominant. Most of the polypodiaceous ferns are small and inconspicuous. Polypods primarily grow as epiphytes but climbers, lithophytes and terrestrial members are not scare. The composition of epiphytic ferns also change with altitude. The ecology, distribution and phytogeography of polypodiaceous ferns of Garhwal are represented by 8 genera and 35 species. Data on the distribution of these members is appended. Majority of the epiphytic members grow in the upper hill forests between 1500-2400 m. Studies on habitat ecology, population assessment, host range of epiphytes, sensitivity and pressure of epiphytic ferns have been presented. The most common species of the area are: Arthromeris wallichiana, A. lehmanii, Drynaria mollis, D. propinqua, Lepisorus kashyapii, L. excavatus, L. loriformis, L. nudus, L. tenuipes, L. clathratus, Microsorum membranaceum, Phymatopteris ebenipes, P. malacodon, P. stewartii, Polypodiastrum argutum, Polypodiodes amoena, Pyrrosia flocculosa, P. lanceolata and Pyrrosia stictica.

2 tables, 19 ref

011737   Sawant U J;Karadge B A (Agrochemicals and Pest Management Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Mineral contents of some bryophytes from Panhala, Kolhapur district. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 110-13.

The present paper reports contents of 17 mineral elements in 4 liverworts and one hornwort from Kolhapur. The amounts of iron and Si were found to be high in these cryptogams.

2 tables, 23 ref

011736   Saha A K (Botany Dep, M.B.B. College, Agartala, Tripura-799 109, Email: Sanchita270873@rediffmail.com) : Effect of some commonly used insecticides on phenol content in roots of Allium cepa. J mycopathol Res 2009, 47(2), 211-13.

Effects of five commonly used insecticides on phenol content of Allium cepa roots were evaluated. An increase in phenol content was recorded with the increasing concentrations of all selected five insecticides. However, the pattern of increase was different in different insecticides. Variation in phenol content on roots of A. cepa induced by different levels and types of insecticides was statistically highly significant.

2 tables, 15 ref

011735   Sabale A B;Pise N M (Botany Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur-416 004) : Effect of seaweed extracts (SWE) on germination of Trigonella foenum-graecum seeds. Bioinfolet 2010, 7(2), 131-2.

Effect of aquous extracts of three seaweeds viz. Ulva fasciata, Sargassum ilicifolium and Gracillaria corticata was tested on germination of fenugreek seeds. Fresh extracts of all seaweeds promoted seed germination.

6 ref

011734   Roy M L;Srivastava R C (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130) : Inoculation experiment of Azospirillum brasilense as supplement of urea nitrogen for aman rice production in Tripura. Vegetos 2009, 22(2), 39-49.

The response of inoculation of Azospirillum brasilense as supplement of urea nitrogen was examined in field condition on aman rice production in Tripura. The experiment conducted in paddy field in rainy autumn season (Kharif - Aman, July-Nov) in 2008 with test variety cv NDR-359. Split-plot experimental design with 20 treatments and 3 replications was carried out. Two factors viz four levels of nitrogen fertilizer (20, 40, 60, 80 kg rr^{1) and three forms of inoculation (seed inoculation, root dipping and basal application) were applied. Substantial increase in all growth parameters, dry matter yield and grain yield parameters was noticed due to inoculation. The finding showed potential of Azospirillum brasilense to save 20 kg N ha-₁. At zero or low level of nitrogen fertilizer (20/40 kg ha1) inoculation of Azospirillum brasilense by root dipping was found more effective and at increased dose of nitrogen fertilizer (60/80 kgha-1), basal application resulted better.}

4 tables, 15 ref