010549   Ahemad M;Khan M S (Agril Microbiology Dep, Faculty of Agril Sciences, A.M.U., Aligarh-202 002, Email: muneesmicro@rediffmail.com) : Effects of quizalafop-p-ethyl and clodinafop on plant growth promoting activities of rhizobacteria from mustard rhizosphere. Ann Pl Prot Sci 2009, 17(1), 175-80.

Seventy bacterial isolates belonging to genera Bacillus and Pseudomonas were isolated from rhizospheric soils of mustard. Plant growth promoting traits, like solubilisation of inorganic phosphate (P) and production of indole acetic acid (IAA), ammonia (NH₃), hydrogen cyanide (HCN), siderophores and catalase was assessed both in the presence and absence of technical grade of herbicides (quizalafop-p-ethyl & clodinafop). A total of 18 isolates showed the plant growth promoting activities both in the presence and absence of the tested herbicides. On the basis of multiple plant growth promoting activities, bacterial isolates were further evaluated for their tolerance to the selected herbicides. Among these, Bacillus strains PS 2, PS 9 and PS 19 and Pseudomonas strain PS 1 showed maximum tolerance to quizalafop-p-ethyl (1200 to 1600 μg mL^-1) and clodinafop (1600 μg mL^-1), quizalafop-p-ethyl (at 40 & 80 μg L^-1) and clodinafop (at 400 & 800 μg L^-1) reduced P solubilisation, synthesis of IAA and siderophores. Among the two herbicides, quizalafop-p-ethyl was more toxic than clodinafop. Hydrogen cyanide and ammonia production by the isolated however, did not change following any concentration of two herbicides. Suggests that the metabolic activities of plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) decline following herbicides application.

2 tables, 8 ref

009697   Zhang T T;He M;Wu A P;Nie L W (College of Life Sciences, Anhui Normal Univ, Provincial Laboratory of Biotic Environment and Ecological Safety, Wuhu, Anhui-241 000, China, Email: lwnie@mail.ahnu.edu.cn) : Allelopathic effects of submerged macrophyte Chara vulgaris on toxic Microcystis aeruginosa. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 391-401.

Microcystis aeruginosa is major bloom-forming cyanobacteria in eutrophic freshwater and the toxic microcystins secreted by it have proved hazardous to aquatic environment. In this study, authour investigated the allelopathic effects of Chara vulgaris on growth and development of toxic M. aeruginosa. The allelochemicals of C. vulgaris were purified and identified and their allelopathic effects were studied in cyanobacterial assays, and found that reciprocal allelopathy exists between the M. ' aeruginosa and C. vulgaris. The C. vulgaris allelochemicals included 3 fatty acids [(Z,Z)-9,12 -octadecadienoic (ODEA, 18:2), tetradecanoic (TDA, 14:0) and hexadecanoic acids (HAD,16:0)], which inhibited the growth of toxic M. aeruginosa and the ODEA proved most potent. The combined activity of these three fatty acids exerted synergistic inhibitory effects on the growth of toxic M. aeruginosa. They have found that C. vulgaris and its allelochemicals may control the M. aeruginosa bloom and it may be useful to recover the eutrophic waters.

5 illus, 2 tables, 29 ref

009696   Zakaria R;Mansor A;Fadzly N;Rosely N;Mansor M (School of Biological Science, Sains Malaysia Univ, 11800 Minden, Pulau Pinan, Malaysia, Email: asyrafm@usm.my) : Comparison of plant communities at six study plots in Penang Forest Reserves, Malaysia. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 259-65.

An analysis of plant communities from six study plots within the Penang forest reserves, Malaysia, revealed 359 plant species with stems ≥ 2.0 cm diameter. More than 70 percent of trees were below 10 cm diameter at breast height (DBH). Total Above Ground Biomass (TAGB) and Basal Area (BA) varied between sites, with the highest value (631.151 ha^{-1) at Bukit Panchor Forest Reserve (Land) and the lowest (112.83 t ha-1) at Bukit Panchor Forest Reserve (Swamp). Based on the species list, the study plot could be divided into two groups, the mainland and the island group. In general, intact forest haboured relatively higher number of woody species than the disturbed forest. The species composition was clearly different between island and mainland forests.}

7 illus, 3 tables, 26 ref

009695   Tremblay R L;Castro J V (Biology Dep, 100 carr. 908, Puerto Rico Univ, Humacao, Puerto Rico 00791, Email: raymond@hpcf.upr.edu) : Circular distribution of an epiphytic herb on trees in a subtropical rain forest. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 211-17.

The distribution of the endangered epiphytic orchid Lepanthes eltoroensisjon the bole of trees was investigated in the Yunque National Forest, Puerto Rico. Using circular statistics, we evaluated if there was preference for cardinal position on the bole of trees along two trails (Tradewinds and El Toro). In addition we tested if larger trees had larger population, and if the distribution of the orchids varied between the two walking trails. Orchids were preferentially distributed on the northwestern side of the bole of trees. Moreover, we found no evidence that the size of trees affected the number of individual orchids. This survey suggests that there is a preference for specific cardinal position on trees for the orchid and thus relocation or establishment of new populations should consider this information to maximize survivorship of this rare orchid.

2 illus, 1 table, 36 ref

009694   Tabin T;Arunachalam A;Shrivastava K; Arunachalam K (Forestry Dep, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, Nirjuli-791 09, Email: arun70@gmail.com) : Effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus on damping-off disease in Aquilaria agallocha Roxb. seedlings. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 243-8.

Damping-off disease of Aquilaria agallocha seedlings caused by the pathogenic fungus (Pythium aphanidermatum) results in poor regeneration under natural conditions and in the nursery. In the present study, Glomus fasciculatum, an arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus was examined for its ability to reduce the rotting incidence of Aquilaria seedlings. Dual inoculations (AM+pathogen) restricted the progression of the pathogen in the root tissues of Aquilaria seedlings. Mycorrhizal inoculation not only reduced the percentage of disease incidence, but also significantly increased host plant height, total biomass and dry matter. Our results suggest that inoculation of AM fungi in the rhizosphere soil of Aquilaria improves plant-soil interaction by enhancing nutrient status, plant growth, promote co-existence of other microbes and protect the host against pathogens. It could be suggested that the AM inoculation may be viable for commercial plantation of Aquilaria, the economically important tree species.

1 illus, 5 tables, 29 ref

009693   Szajdak L;Maryganova V (Research Center for Agricultural and Forest Environment, Polish Academy of Sciences, ul. Bukowska 19, 60-890 Poznan, Poland, Email: szajlech@man.poznan.pl) : Impact of age and composition of shelterbelts plants on IAA content as allelochemical in soils. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 461-8.

Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) contents in soils from two shelterbelts of different age and plant composition as well as in adjoining soils of cultivated fields were studied. During the entire vegetative growth, the concentrations of IAA were significantly higher in soils under the old shelterbelt (64.4 to 241.5 μg.kg^{-1) than in soil under the young shelter belt and adjoining cultivated fields (5.8 to 21.8 μg.kg-1). These differences may be due to the contents of organic carbon and total nitrogen and associated roots of Robinia pseudoacacia. The IAA contents in soils from the young shelterbelt and adjoining cultivated fields were lower than in soils under old shelterbelt.}

^ssc1 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

009692   Singh J;Raj Kumar;Balbir Singh (College of Horticulture and Forestry, Jhalarapatan, Jhalawar-326 023) : Comparative study of vase life of cut flowers. J Ass Physns India 2009, 2(1), 113-14.

1 table, 6 ref

009691   Sahoo K;Dhal N K (NO, Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (Council of Scientific, Bhudaneswar-753 013) : Potential microbial diversity in mangrove ecosystems. Indian J Mar Sci 2009, 38(2), 249-56.

Mangroves provide a unique ecological niche to different microbes which play various roles in nutrient recycling as well as various environmental activities. Mangrove forests are large ecosystems distributed in 112 countries and territories comprising a total area of about 181,000 km^{2 is over a quarter of the total coastline of the world. The highly productive and diverse microbial community living in mangrove ecosystems continuously transforms nutrients from dead mangrove vegetation into sources of nitrogen, phosphorous and other nutrients that can be used by the plants and in turn the plant-root exudates serve as a food source for the microbes. Analysis of microbial biodiversity from these ecosystems will help in isolating and identifying new and potential microorganisms having high specificity for various applications. The present study consists literature on diversity of predominant microbes such as bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes from mangrove ecosystems.}

^iia84 ref

009690   Rama Bhat P;Kaveriappa K M (Post Graduate Dep. of Biotechnology, Alva's College, Moodbidri-574 227, Email: ramabhatp@yahoo.com) : Ecological studies on Myristica swamp forests of Uttara Kannada, Karnataka, India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 329-37.

Ecological studies on Myristica swamp forests in Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka state in India with reference to floristic composition, structure, diversity and edaphic factors were conducted. Transect method was employed by laying out sample plots in Kathalkane Reserve Forests of Western Ghats and enumeration of all trees >10 cm diameter at breast height was made. Sixty three species, including one unidentified species of trees and bamboos belonging to twenty six families with DBH >10 cm were recorded. The forest is of evergreen type dominanted by Myristica fatua var. magnified, Gymnacranthera farquhariana, Hopea ponga and Dipterocarpus indicus. Myristicaceae dominated the swamps with maximum Importance Value Index of 102.63 represented mainly by G. farquhariana (57.83) and M. fatua var. magnifica (38.49). The forest floor is covered by knee roots. The physico-chemical properties of the soil of swamp were also determined. Endemism was fairly high, with 23 species endemic to the Western Ghats and ten species were rare and threatened. Soils were silty and sandy loam of acidic to neutral pH and moderate organic carbon levels. Soil nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium contents were in the ranges 0.64-1.26%, also slightly lower than other forest ecosystems of the region.

2 illus, 6 tables, 22 ref

009689   Rajeah Prakash;Singh D K;Manish Kumar (Parasitology Lab, Zoology Dep, Govt. P.G. Coll, Jaleasr, Etah, Email: manishzoology06@yahoo.com) : Plant parasitic nematodes: sampling, diagnosis and their managements. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 176-82.

Nematodes are tiny, worm-like, multicellular animals adapted to living in water, The number of nematode species is estimatedi at half a million, many of which are free-living types found in the oceans, in freshwater habitats, and in soils. Parasitic species form a smaller group. They cause farmers and nurserymen millions of dollars in crop loss annually, but also can cause problems in the urban world by damaging turf grasses, ornamentals and home gardens. Losses are caused by nematodes because much of the damage caused by them is so subtle that it goes unnoticed or is attributed to other causes. Nematode management should be multifaceted. Since eliminating nematodes is not possible, the goal is to manage their population, reducing their numbers below damaging levels. Common management methods used include planting resistant crop varieties, rotating soil amendments, and applying pesticides.

12 ref

009688   Prasad V (Botany Dep, Thakur Ram Multiple Campus (Tribhuvan Univ), Birgunj, Nepal, Email: nepal_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.

Spirulinafusiformis, 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.

3 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

009687   Portela R D C Q;Santos F A M D (Post-Graduate Program in Plant Biology, Botany Dep, Institute of Biol, State Univ of Campinas, CP 6109, Campinas, SP 13083-970, Brazil, Email: rita@quiteteportela.com.br) : Mortality and mechanical damage of seedlings in different size fragments of the Brazilian atlantic forest. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 267-75.

Assessed the mechanical damage caused by litterfall and vertebrates to seedlings and saplings at the edge and in the interior of three small (14, 20, 29 ha) and one large (9400 ha) fragments of the Atlantic Forest, Sao Paulo, Brazil. We monitored mechanical damage (e.g. litterfall, vertebrate and human damage) of artificial seedlings, and mortality rates for natural seedlings for 1 year at 3 month intervals. Mechanical damage to artificial seedlings was mainly caused by litterfall (68.1%). Damage to artificial seedlings was approximately two times higher in the smaller fragments than in the large fragment, but the mortality of natural seedlings was not related to fragment size. Mechanical damage and mortality did not differ between edge and interior plots. Although it occurred only occasionally (3.78% of total damage) human impact (trampling) seems to be the most important single cause of seedling mortality.

1 illus, 1 table, 47 ref

009686   Pawar S M;Gadgile D P;Chavan A M;Kakde R B; Pangrikar P P (Botany Dep, Shivaji Coll, Kannad, Dist, Aurangabad-431 103) : Ecology and incidence of powdery mildews on fruit crops from Marathwada region of Maharashtra State. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 124-26.

Fruit crops Zizyphus mauritiana, Vilis vinifera, Mangifera indica, Tamarindas indica, and Carica papaya were found to be affected with oidial stage of Oidium zizyphe, Uncinula necator, Oidium mangiferae, Oidium tamarindiae, Odium caddie papayae respectively. Powdery mildew was sever at low temperature and high humidity.

1 illus, 10 ref

009685   Nambiar G R;Raveendran K (Post Graduate Studies and Research in Botany Dep, Sir Syed College, Taliparamba, Kerala-670 142, Email: grn_149@rediffmail.com) : Marine mycoflora in backwater ecosystem of Kerala, India. J envir Biol 2009, 30(5), 647-9.

Back water system of Kerala is well known for its fertility. Fungi play a vital role in detritus decomposition, nutrient cycling and energy flow in marine food web including backwater ecosystem. Present investigation on the diversity of marine fungi from two back waters of Kerala resulted in the isolation of 20 marine fungi. These include 11 Ascomycetes, 1 Basidiomycete and 8 Mitosporic fungi. In terms of percent frequency of occurrence the most common species obtained were Aniptodera chesapeakensis, Verruculina enalia, Savoryella lignicola and Clavatospora bulbosa. Ascochyta sp. was represented by only a single isolate.

009684   Mohandass D;Davidar P (Ecology and Envronmental Sciences Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Kalapet, Pondicherry-605 014, Email: davidarp@si.edu) : Floristic structure and diversity of a tropical montane evergreen forest (Shola) of the Nilgiri mountains, Southern India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 219-29.

Inventoried plants (≤ 1 cm diameter at breast height) in 19 montane evergreen forests (sholas) of total area 11.5 ha in the upper plateau (≈ 2000 m asl) of the Nilgiri Mountains in southern India. All plants meeting the size criterion were inventoried in sholas ≤1.26 ha, whereas in sholas >1.26 ha randomly laid 30x30 m (0.09 ha) plots were used. A total of 30495 individuals from 87 species, 65 genera and 42 families were recorded. Of these 57 species of trees, 13 lianas, 12 shrubs and 5 large herbs were recorded. Species diversity as measured by Fisher's alpha was 11, stem density was 2652 stems ha^{-1 and basal area 59.4 m2 ha-1. Most species (67 : 77%) were common (densities > 1 stem ha-1), and widely distributed (36 : 41%) among sholas. The Nilgiri sholas shared 34 (47%) species with Kukkal shola located in the Palni hills, 150 km south of the study site. This suggests a common biogeographical heritage. The unique shola forest is endangered and needs to be conserved on a priority basis.}

5 illus, 2 tables, 49 ref

009683   Mohan Gupta S;Arif M;Ahmed Z;Narendra Kumar (Plant Molecular Biology and Genetic Engng Lab, Defence Agric Res Lab, DRDO, Haldwani-263 139) : In vitro regeneration of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. var. Parbhani Kranit) from shoot tip explants. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 54-7.

Simple and reliable protocol of in vitro regeneration of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. var. Parbhanl kranti) from shoot tip explants for genetic transformation has been developed. Shoot tip ex plants from in vitro grown seedling were inoculated on MS medium supplemented with different combinations of BAP and IAA. Shoot induction was best on MS medium supplemented with BAP (0.5 mgL^{-1) and IAA (0.1 mgL-1), it gave shoot induction in 6 days and the frequency of shoot regeneration was 90%. MS media was supplemented with different concentrations of IBA and IAA in different combinations for rhizogenesis. Best rhizogenesis was observed in plantlets cultured on MS media containing IBA (0.5 mgL-1). About 95 of the regenerated plantlets hardened successfully in sand: soil: vermicompost (1:1:1).}

1 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

009682   Mitra S;Mukherjee S K (Botany Dep, Ranaght College, Ranaghat, Nadia-741 235, Email: sobankr@yahoo.com) : Some abortifacient plants used by the tribal people of West Bengal. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 167-71.

Use of abortifacient plants is common practice among the tribal communities of West Bengal. In the present paper a list of 22 Angiospermic plant species belonging to 21 genera under 18 families and used as abortifacient has been provided. The study was conducted with 7 native tribal communities of West Bengal, i.e. Lodha, Lohar, Munda, Oraon, Polia, Sabar and Santal. Among these, Santal and Oraon people are well-acquainted with knowledge of the plants usage. The mode of preparation, administration and the dosage of the drugs are also provided for further studies and induce early stage pregnancy termination.

15 ref

009681   Mani S;Parthasarathy N (Ecology and Environmental Sciences Dep, Pondicherry Univ, Puducherry-605 014, Email: parthapu@yahoo.com) : Tree population and above-ground biomass changes in two disturbed tropical dry evergreen forests of Peninsular India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 249-58.

Changes in tree species diversity, stand density and above ground biomass (AGB) were investigated in two tropical dry evergreen forests (Kuzhanthaikuppam - KK and Thirumanikkuzhi - TM) of peninsular India by recensusing all trees (>10 cm girth at breast height) after 10-year interval (1995-2005). In 10 years, tree diversity decreased by 7.7% in site KK and 15% in TM. Tree density declined by 10.5% in KK, but increased by 17.5% in TM. During the 10-year interval, basal area in site KK marginally increased by 2.3% and in TM it decreased by 6.8%. Two species were added, 4 species were lost and 22 species survived in site KK, while in site TM, just one species was added, 5 species were lost and 21 species survived. Changes in the abundance of individual tree species after 10 years revealed a considerable variation. Overall, Memecylon umbellatum, a shade-tolerant, understory species suffered the highest density loss (135 stems ha^{-1). During the census interval (1995 to 2005), the total AGB increased by 2% in KK and 11.52% in TM. There was no significant variation in the AGB across various tree girth classes between 1995 and 2005. The total AGB for lower girth class (<20 cm dbh) decreased by 2.28% in site KK and gained by 27.4% in site TM. The observed changes in stem density, basal area and total AGB can be attributed to cumulative effect of site quality and human activities. Quantitative analysis of tree population changes is a key factor for predicting and understanding present status of tropical forests.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 57 ref

009680   Mamatha G C;Madhuri V;Neelima K;Madhulatha P; Patil K S (Pharmacology and Phytochem Dep, Acharya & B.M. Reddy Collof Pharmacy, Soladevanahalli, Bangalore-90) : Phytochemical screening of leaf extracts of Calotropis Gigantea linn. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 93-5.

Preliminary phytochemicals studies on different extracts leaves of Calotropis gigantea Linn; belongs to family Asclepiadaceae reveals the presence of steroids, triterpenoids, glycosides, proteins, carbohydrates, flavonoids. Where as alkaloids tannins, and phenolic compounds were totally absent inthis plant.

2 tables, 9 ref

009679   Mallick P;Keshri J (CAS in Botany, The Univ of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan-713 104, West Bengal) : Dinobryon ehrenberg in West Bengal - New record of three taxa. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 113-14.

Dinobryon Ehrenberg is a rare genus of the class Chrysophyceae, easily recognized by its unique shape of lorica. Three taxa, D. bavaricum Imhot, D. calciformis Bachmann, and D. cylindricum Imhof have been reported for the first time from West Bengal constituting new records for India.

4 illus, 14 ref

009678   Mallick P;Keshri J (CAS in Botany, Univ of Burdwan, Golapbag, Burdwan-713 104, Email: jpkeshri@indiatimes.com) : New records of Pediastrum Meyen from West Bengal, India. J appl Biosci 2008, 34(1), 83-6.

Six rare taxa of Pediastrum Meyen viz. P. ovatum (Ehr.) A. Braun forma, P. angulosum (Ehr.) Meneghini, P. angulosum (Ehr.) Meneghini var. laevigatum Raciborski, P. boryanum (Turpin) Meneghini var. undulatum Wille, P. araneosum (Racib.) Racib. & P. araneosum (Racib.) Racib. var. rugulosum (G. S. West) G.M. Smith have been described & illustrated. P. angulosum and P. boryanum var. undulatum constitute the first report from India, while P. angulosum var. laevigatum, & P. araneosum var. rugulosum the first from West Bengal. Comments on the validity of the above mentioned taxa have also been added.

13 illus, 22 ref

009677   Madhekar R D;Mungikar A M (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwada Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Effect of deproteinised leaf juice (DPJ) of lucerne on growth of Dolichos and green-gram. J Aquatic Biol 2009, 24(1), 189-92.

Deproteinised leaf juice (DPJ) of lucerne, left after extraction of protein, was used as a manure for Dolichos and green-gram. Application of DPJ increased height of the plants, fresh and dry weight per plant, nitrogen (N) content of the foliages and efficiency of using nitrogen by these two crop plants. The use of DPJ as a source of manure was thus found suitable.

2 tables, 12 ref

009676   Linares-Palomino R;Ponce-Alvarez S I (Systematic Botany Dep, Albrecht-von-Haller-Institute for Plant Scienc, Gottingen Univ, Untere Karspule 2, 37073-Gottingen, Germany, Email: r.linaresp@yahoo.co.uk) : Structural patterns and floristics of a seasonally dry forest in reserva ecologica chaparri, lambayeque, Peru. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 305-14.

To obtain floristic and forest structural data from the threatened seasonally dry forests in northwestern Peru, part of the Tumbes-Choco-Magdalena biodiversity hotspot, inventoried all plants with dbh ≤ 1 cm in one hectare of forest in the Chaparri Ecological Reserve. We recorded 1255 individuals, representing 24 species, 19 genera and 12 families. The most abundant species was Cordia lutea (Boraginaceae, 249 individuals), the most diverse genus Capparis (Capparaceae) and the most diverse family Leguminosae. These results show that the forest plot in Chaparri represents an impoverished version of the seasonally dry forests in the region and is most similar, compositionally and in structure, to the seasonally dry forests located on the lower western slopes of the northern Peruvian Andes. Exploratory spatial pattern analyses of the most abundant species suggest that their dispersal properties were primarily responsible for the different observed patterns.

5 illus, 1 table, 34 ref

009675   Kshirsagar R;Upadhyay S (Drug Discovery & Development, Reliance Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd, Dhirubhai Ambani Life Sciences Cente, R-282, TTC Industrial Area of MIDC, Thane, Belapur Road, Rabale, Navi Mumbai-400 701, Email: rajendra_kshirsagar@relbio.com) : Free radical scavenging activity screening of medicinal plants from Tripura, Northest India. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 117-22.

Antioxidative effects of 123 extracts (Direct methanolic and sequential per ether, dichloro-methane, ethyl acetate, methanol) prepared from 32 plants species (59 plant samples) collected from Tripura, Northeast India have been studied. Their ability of scavenging free radicals was measured byDPPH reduction spectrophotometric assay. Sixteen extracts showed strong antkradant capabilities, which were, subjected for their dose dependent activity at different concentrations to calculate IC₅₀ values.

3 tables, 24 ref

009674   Khursheedalam M D;Ahmad N (Botany Dep, Patna Univ, Patna-5) : Antimicrobial activities and phytochemical screening of some members of fabaceae. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 122-3.

Three wild species of the family fabaceae namely Desmodium polycarpum (Poiret) DC. Indigofera endecaphylla Jacq. and Alysicarpus monilifer (L) DC. were screened for their antimicrobial activities. Ethyl ether and alcoholic extracts of leaves of all these selected species showed positive reactions against bacterial pathogens i.e. Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli and fungal pathogen Candida albicans. The leaves of selected plant species were also analysed for flavonoid contents i.e. Quercetin and Kaempferol.

2 tables, 7 ref

009673   Jeevanandham S;Dhachinamoorthi D; Gopalakrishanan S;Vijai Basker G;Vivekananda P;Sekar M;Devasier B; Prema R (NO, Santhiram Coll of Pharmacy, Nandyal-518 501, Email: jeeva1983@gmail.com) : Comparative studies of antibacterial actiity and phytochemical analysis of selective medicinal plants. Adv Pharmac Toxic 2009, 10(3), 161-8.

The antibacterial effect of some selected indian medicinal plants was evaluated on bacterial strains like Bacillus cereus ATCCll778, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC25923, Enterobacter aerogenes ATCC13048, Escherichia coli ATCC25922 and Klebsiella pneumoniae NCIM2719. The solvents used for the extraction of plants were water and methanol. The in vitro antibacterial activity was performed by agar disc diffusion and agar well diffusion method. The most susceptible Gramªpositive bacteria was B. cereus, while the most susceptible Gramªnegative bacteria was K. pneumoniae. The extracts of Abrus precatorius, Cardiospermum halicacabum and Gmelina asiatica could not inhibit any of the bacterial strains investigated. The most active antibacterial plant was Caesalpinia decapetala. The significant antibacterial activity of active extracts was compared with the standard antimicrobics, piperacillin (1μg/disc) and gentamicin (10μg/disc). The results obtained in the present study suggest that Caesalpinia decapetala can be used in treating diseases caused by the test organisms.

3 tables, 19 ref

009672   Jagwan S S;Singh N (Botany Dep, Ch. Shivnath Singh Shandilya (P.G.) College, Machhra, Meerut, Utter Pradesh) : Taxonomic status of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.. J Ass Physns India 2009, 2(1), 26-32.

The wild edible Indain jujube is one of the diffused species among wild resources in India. The Indian species described under the name Ziziphus mauritiana Lam., is native from the province of Yunnan in Southern China to Afghanistan, Malaysia and Queensland Ziziphus jujube has been distinguished into two main groups, Chinese jujube and Indian jujube. Actual taxonomy of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. as found in the literature as well as in various herbaria, is all chaos and confusion. Till now several attempts has been made in Indian flora to study taxonomy of Ziziphus, but the nomenclature of entire genus is unclear as also the taxonomic identity of the varieties. In most of the Indian flora, Indian jujube has been described under the name of Ziziphus jujube, but several botanists distinguish Indian jujube as Ziziphus mauritina Lam. The present paper discusses the actual taxonomic state of Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. on the basis of leaf and fruit morphology, which helps us to identify the species found in India.

13 ref

009671   Jadhav M;Pawar S M (Botany Dep, Sir Sayyed Coll, Roshan Gate, Aurangabad-431 001) : Cynophycean biodiversity of Sharnapur lake of Aurangabad, Maharashtra. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 150-1.

In order to study the Cyanophycean diversity of aquatic habit, Sharnapur lake of Aurangabad district has been selected. The survey carried out for one year, from June 2007 to May 2008. A total of 35 species under 22 yenera of Cyanophyceae were identified. The species of Chroococcus, Aphanothece, Merismopedia, Plectonema and Scytonema were most frequently observed during present investigation.

2 tables, 8 ref

009670   Hoagland R E (USDA-ARS, Southern Weed Science Research Unit, P.O. Box 350, Stoneville, MS 38776 USA, Email: bob.hoagland@ars.usda.gov) : Toxicity of tomatine and tomatidine on weeds, crops and phytopathogens fungi. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 425-35.

α-Tomatine was not highly phytotoxic and slightly inhibited the stem elongation (7 to 13%) when applied as a spray to etiolated 4-day-old seedlings of sesbania [Sesbania exaltata (Raf.) Rybd.], sicklepod (Senna obtusifolia L.), mungbean (Vigna radiata L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and sorghum (Sorghum vulgare L.). Tomatidine had less effect on stem elongation than tomatine and reduced the elongation (5 to 10%). Tomatine was more effective than tomatidine in reducing chlorophyll content in excised etiolated tissues of hemp sesbania, sicklepod, mungbean, wheat and sorghum. Inhibition of chlorophyll accumulation by tomatine ranged from 16 to 89% of control values, whereas inhibition by tomatidine ranged from 0 to 30% of control in these species. Both tomatine and tomatidine increased electrolyte leakage of corn (Zea mays L.), kudzu [Pueraria lobata (Willd.) Ohwi], palmleaf morningglory (Ipotnea wrightii Gray) and wild senna (Cassia marilandica L.) leaf disks at 24 to 72 h after exposure to the compounds (0.5 mM) and light (100 μE m^{2 s-1). Tomatidine caused greater electrolyte leakage than tomatine in tissues of these species. When incorporated into growth media (agar) at 0.3 mM, tomatine and tomatidine inhibited the growth of three fungal bioherbicidal phytopathogens. Alternaria cassiae (weed host = sicklepod), the most sensitive pathogen was inhibited 70% by both compounds. Tomatine inhibited Colletotrichum truncatum (weed host = hemp sesbania) and Fusarium subglutinans (produces fumonisin, phytotoxic to many plants) growth by 63% and 50%, respectively; while tomatidine inhibited the growth of these latter two pathogens by 50% and 15%, respectively. These natural plant products were shown to have a broad range phytotoxicity and fungitoxicity which may be important in plant defense mechanisms.}

5 illus, 40 ref

009669   Harmukh N;Naik M L;Sinha S;Shukla R (School of Studies in Life Sci, School of Studies in Anthropology, Pt. Ravishankar Shukla Univ, Raipur-492 010) : Seasonal variation in the alkaloid content in roots of cissampelos pareira L. an important medicinal climber of Chhattisgarh state. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 130-2.

Cissampelos pareira L., belonging to the family Menispermaceae, is a semi woody climber commonly known in India Patha. It is an important medicinal plant, found in deciduous forests in Sarguja, Raigarh Bastar, and Bilaspur and also found in Raipur district of Chhattisgarh state. The whole plant is used in Ayurvedic system of medicine for a number of diseases like, pain, fever, diarrhea, dysentery, acid indigestion, edema, kidney inflammation, skin eruptions, heart troubles, urinary bladder diseases etc. Analgesic, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, anti-inflamn1atory, antileukemic, antimalarial, antiseptic, antispasmodic, anti-tumorªous, diuretic insecticidal, stimulant, expectorant properties have been recorded in tills climber. It contains a variety of alkaloids including bebeerines, berberine, bulbocapnine, cissamine, cissampeline, corytuberine, curine, 4-methylcurine, cyclanoline; hyatine, bis-benzoylisoquinoline, menismine, pareirine, and tetrandrine. Present experiments have been done to determine the best month for harvesting the plant for alkaloid content. Total alkaloid content was determined by Soxhlet method using ethanol as solvent.+ The months of October, November and December have been found to be the best months of harvesting for Cissampelos pareira roots for obtaining better amount of total alkaloids. Maximum alkaloid yield (1.28%) was obtained in the month of November. Studies on this as well as similar studies on other plants will be helpful to know the best time fur the collection or harvesting and-yield of medicinally important chemical constituents in different medicinal plants of the region .

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

009668   Hari Krishna A (PG Studies in R.S. & B.K., iA.L.N. Dep, Rao Memorial Ayurveda Medical College, Koppa-577 126) : Efficacy of sodhitamalla in amavata. Aryavaidyan 2008, 22(1), 25-7.

Amavata is considered as one among the most crippling disorders of mankind. It is caused by improper functioning of gastrointestinal system due to various etiological factors characterized by affliction of the joints by vitiated kapha (in other terms amarasa) bringing the immunological component to the forefront. The major feature of amavata is pain, which, ayurveda attributes to the involvement of vata. There are various formulations mentioned in ayurvedic classics to break the samprapti. Sodditamalla in combination with sunthi and punarnava is referred to in Rasatarahgini for the treatment of amavata.

009667   Hadi S;Ziegler T;Waltert M;Hodges J K (Faculty of Biology, Gadjah Mada Univ, Jagjakarta 55281, Indonesia, Email: tziegl@dpz.gwdg.de) : Tree diversity and forest structure in northern Siberut, Mentawai Islands, Indonesia. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 315-27.

Assessed tree diversity, species composition and forest structure of 3.4 km^{2 of primary rainforest in an important conservation area in North Siberut, Indonesia. We used floristic data from 34 20 m x 20 m plots for trees ≥20 cm diameter at breast height (dbh), 34 10 m x 10 m plots for poles (10-19 cm dbh) and 34 5 x 5 m plots for saplings (≤ 9cm dbh). In total. 139 species were recorded from 93 trees, 57 poles and 86 saplings, with an estimated total species richness of 180 (Michaelis Menten species richness estimator). Overall 70 genera and 35 families were represented, with Euphorbiaceae, Myrtaceae, Lauraceae and Moraceae being most important in terms of species diversity and Myristicaceae in terms of total individuals recorded. At species level, species of the genera Mallotus and Knema, as well as Baccaurea sumatrana were most dominant in all dbh classes based on the Importance Value Index (IVI), but only six species (none of which a dipterocarp) reached IV indices of ≥ 15, reflecting the high eveness and low dominance of dipterocarps in the tree community. Among trees ≥20 cm dbh. >50% were within the 20-39 cm dbh class and 73% of trees formed a canopy between 6 and 20 m in height, whereas emergent dipterocarps reached heights above 55 m (Dipterocarpus sp.) and diameters above 230 cm (Shorea pauciflora). The mixed composition of this forest emphasizes its significance for the biodiversity of the region.}

3 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

009666   Hadapad B S;Nayak A V (Ayurveda Dep, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Univ, Manipal) : Ayurvedic drugs in British pharmocopoeia of 1948 - a systematic review. Aryavaidyan 2008, 22(1), 49-59.

History has enough data to show the ancient Indian bio-diversity. Its rich flora was thoroughly scrutinized and incorporated in Materia Medica in the first century of Christian era by the Greek physician Doiscorides. British Pharmacopoeia of 1948 is full of herbal and mineral preparations out of which 48 ayurvedic single herbal preparations are comprehensively explained.

^iia2 tables, 21 ref

009665   Gadgile D P;Chavan A M;Kakde R B;Hatti A D; Pangrikar P P;Gaikwad R S (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwads Univ, Aurangabad-431 004, Email: ram_mango@yahoo.com) : Development of botryodiplodia the obromae rot (stem-end rot) of mango fruits under the influence of different temperature and relative humidity. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 184-6.

An attempt was made to find out the effect of environmental factors such as temperature and relative humidity on severity of disease; spore germination, Cellulase and pectinase enzyme activity of Botryodiplodia theobromae. Developments of stem end rot were very less at low temperature and low relative humidity.

2 tables, 11 ref

009664   Divya T S;Latha P G;Usha K;Anuja G I;Suja S R;Shyamal S;Shine V J;Sini S;Shikha P;Rajasekharan S (Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram-695 562, Email: halthagopalakrishnan@yahoo.com) : Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-lipid peroxidative properties of Wattakaka volubilis (Linn.f.) Stapf.. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 137-41.

Ethanolic extract of Wattakaka volubilis (Linn.f.) Stapf. was screened for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects in animals. The extract showed a significant inhibition of carrageenan-induced rat paw edema and acetic acid-induced writhing in mice compared to the standard anti-inflammatory and analgesic drug, indomethacin. The extract also showed potent in vitro inhibition of FeCl-ascorbic acid-stimulated mice liver lipid peroxidation.

3 tables, 23 ref

009663   Das H B;Majumdar K;Datta B K;Ray D (Plant Taxonomy and Biodiversity Laboratory, Botany Dep, Tripura Univ, Suryamaninagar-799 130, Email: dattabadal2008@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical uses of some plants by Tripuri and Reang tribes of Tripura. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 172-80.

An ethno-medicinal survey of plants in Tripura state revealed that some less known medicinal plants have been used by the indigenous tribes. The valid scientific name, family, local name(s), habit, dosages and traditional formulation of 33 species belonging to 32 genera and 25 families are enumerated in the paper. The ethnic people of Tripuri and Reang communities of Tripura are involved in using these medicinal plants. Traditional beliefs, concepts, knowledge and practices among them for preventing, lessening or curing disease are accessible till now. Still they depend upon such traditional healthcare and the need for immediate documentation of such knowledge and conservation of these valuable plants are emphasized to secure it for our future generation.

1 table, 16 ref

009662   Chen M;Rong Zhou J I A;Li C Y;Song Y Y;Xie L J;Chen S;Zeng R S (Center of Experimental Teaching for Common Basic Courses, South China Agricultural Univ, Guangzhou 510641, P.R. China, Email: rszeng@scau.edu.cn) : Isolation, identification and bioactivity of allelochemicals of Streptomyces sp. strain 6803. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 411-24.

Streptomyces spp produces numerous antibiotics to inhibit the growth of neighbouring microbial competitors, however, their potential allelopathie effects on plants is ignored. Streptomyces sp. strain 6803 was isolated from the rice soil. This strain showed allelopathie effects on both fungal pathogens and plants. Ten allelochemicals were isolated and purified from fermented broth of the strain through column chromatography. Their structure was identified on the basis on their IR, MS, ^{1H and 13C NMR. The identified compounds are: 7,4'-dihydroxy- flavone (I), 5,7-dihydroxy -8-methoxyflavone (II), 5,7,4'-trihydroxyflavone (Apigenin. III), 5,7,4'-trihydroxy- isoflavone (Genistein, IV), diisobutyl phthalate (DiBP, V), dibutyl phthalate (DBP, VI), 4-hydroxy -benzoic acid (VII), salicylic acid (VIII), benzole acid (IX), N-acetyl- tyramine (X). Bioassay showed that all isolated compounds had phytotoxicity. Among them the phenolic compounds (VII-IX) displayed higher phytotoxicity. Compound VIII inhibited the root growth of barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crusgalli) and rape (Brassica campestris L.) by 86.6 and 100%, respectively at 0.3 mM concentration. The flavones (I-IV) showed strong antimicrobial activity. The compounds II, III and IV at 0.3 mM inhibited the Fusarium gmminearum in 25.0, 26.6 and 28.2 mm diameters, respectively. However, these flavones were less allelopathie to plants than phenolic compounds. Our results suggested that Streptomyces sp. strain 6803 uses flavone compounds for resistance to microbes and phenolic compounds for allelopathie effects on plants.}

3 illus, 5 tables, 48 ref

009661   Chen L;Peng S;Aoming Chen B;Li J;Pang J (State Key Lab of Biocontrol, School of Life Sciences, Sun at-Sen Univ, Guangzhou-510275, China, Email: clyjenny@163.com) : Effects of aqueous extracts of 5 mangrove spp. on cabbage germination and hypocotyl growth of Kandelia candel. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 469-76.

In petridish bioassay and pot culture, we assessed the allelopathic potential of five mangrove ree spp. (Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh., Aegicerax corniculata (L.) Blanco, Kandella candel (L.) Druce, Rhiwphora styloxa Griff, and Bruguiera gymnorrhiza (L.) Lam.) on mid-successional mangrove specie (Kandelia candel (L.) Druce and cabbage. The aqueous extracts prepared from fresh leaves of mangrove trees and applied to test species, reduced their germination rate and seedlings growth. The allelopathic intensity of aqueous extracts on cabbage increased with the development of mangrove succession, but the response of K. candel to the extracts of five successional mangroves was variable. The mangrove spp. (R. stylosa, B. gynmoniiiza) drastically inhibited the growth of K. candel and may replace it in natural succession. The A. marina, significantly inhibited the K. candel, but it is seldom replaced by K. candel in forest. Contrarily K. candel was less sensitive to extracts of A. corniculata (mangrove spp. naturally replaced by K. candel). Our results suggested that allelopathy may be one of the major driving forces regulating the mangrove forest succession.

^ssc2 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

009660   Chen B;Peng S;Chen L;Li F;Wang C X (State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Life Science, Sun Yat-Sen Univ, Guangzhou 510275, China, Email: isspsl@mail.sysu.edu.cn) : Effects of aqueous extracts of Mikania micrantha H.B.K. on nutrients release from the Forests litter at three succession stages in south China. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 453-60.

Sprayed water (control, CK) and 3 concentrations (0.005, 0.025 and 0.100 g dry weight ml^{-1) of aqueous extracts on cover soil (beneath which the litter of 3 plants were buried) to determine the rates of litter decomposition and C and N release from 3 dominant native plants (Pinus massoniana Lamb., Schiina superba Gardn. et Champ, and Castanopsis chinensis Hance). The extracts increased the litter decomposition rates and nutrients (C, N) release from P. massoniana but decreased these in C. chinensis and there were no effects on 5. superba. The changes were variable in different forests and were dependent on the extracts concentration.}

^ssc2 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

009659   Bondya S L;Singh K P;Khanna K K (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Central Circle, Allahabad-211 002) : Exploitation of ethno-medicinal plants and their marketing status in Achanakumar-Amarkantak biosphere reserve. J trop For 2009, 25(1-2), 33-7.

Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve in central India is endowed with rich floristic diversity with numerous ethno-medicinal plants of economic significance. These plants used in traditional indigenous system of treatment for various ailments by the tribal and non-tribal residents of the area, form the backbone of medicines prescribed by local practitioners like Kabirajs, Pahans Vaidrajs, etc. The local ethnic communities like Gond, Baiga, Korku, Muria and Oraon, in order to earn good revenue for their livelihood, collect these ethno-medicinal plants in huge quantities and sell them in the local markets at cheaper rates to vendors, thereby threatening the diversity of these ethno-medicinal plants in nature and pushing many species to fall in red data categories in near future. While carrying out field and market survey of these plants, it has-been recorded that the vendors sell these plants to the users/herbal practitioners at much higher rates after purchasing them directly from local collectors.

1 tables, 1 ref

009658   Bisht R;Chaturvedi S;Srivastava R;Sharma A K; Johri B N (Biological Sciences Dep, CBS & H.G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Pantanagar-263 145, Email: anilksharma_99@yahoo.com) : Effect of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, Pseudomonas fluorescens and Rhizobium leguminosarum on the growth and nutrient status of Dalbergia sissoo Roxb.. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 231-42.

Dalbergia sissoo, an important tree of tropical regions, is grown as monoculture or in agroforesty systems because of the quality of its wood and its effects on soil fertility through N₂ fixation. Low soil fertility in tropical regions results in poor plant growth. This is significant in the case of forest trees, since they are generally transplanted without considering the fertility status of soil. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) (a plant-growth promoting fungus through higher nutrient uptake), Rhizobium leguminosarum strain DSP2 (a N2 fixer) and Pseudomonas fluorescens strain GRPr (a plant-growth promoting bacterium), on the growth and nutrient acquisition of Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. Mollisol and Entisol were used to compare the effects of different soils. A tetrapartite interaction of AMF, P. fluorescens strain GRPr, R. leguminosarum strain DSP2 and D. sissoo showed improved plant growth response in the Entisol compared to uninoculated plants. The interaction of AMF with DSP2 was found; however, AMF did not show the same growth responses in combination with either GRPr or DSP2 and GRPr regardless of soil type. AMF and GRPr showed decreased plant growth, suggesting that, enhanced plant growth was dependent on the bacteria - AMF combination used. It is suggested that, in the case of D. sissoo, choice and testing of the combination of beneficial organisms is necessary to get desired plant growth promotion.

1 illus, 7 tables, 55 ref

009657   Bhatt S;Shah D G;Desai N (Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajrao Univ of Baroda, Vadodara, Gujarat, Email: shahdhamu@rediffmail.com) : Mangrove diversity of Purna estuary, South Gujarat, India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 287-93.

The mangroves along the estuaries of South Gujarat, India, have remained largely uninvestigated. Describes the mangroves of Purna estuary, Navsari district, Gujarat. They were studied by undertaking extensive field work over two years. Mangrove density maps of the area were prepared using unsupervised classification technique of IRS 1-D, LISS III satellite data for the year 2003. This locality which was devoid of any mangroves now harbors about 387 ha of mangroves, most of which is a dense forest. The highlight of this study is the occurrence of seven species of mangroves viz. Avicennia marina var. marina, Sonneratia apetala, Acanthus ilicifolius, Rhizophora mucronata, Ceriops tagal, Bruguiera cylindrica and Aegiceras corniculatum which makes it one of the most diverse mangrove patches in the state. Nine species of mangrove associates and six species of salt marsh are also reported from the area.

3 illus, 3 tables, 25 ref

009656   Bhaskar V H;Balakrishnan N (NO, M.P. Patel College of Pharmacy, Kapadwanj, Gujarat-387 620) : Pharmacognostical evaluation of Carissa carandas Linn. root. Aryavaidyan 2008, 22(1), 3-13.

Carissa carandas (Apocynaceae) has been used as a traditional medicinal plant over thousand of years in various system of medicine. It is a large shrub with simple thorn commonly called as 'karaunda'. The present study includes macroscopic, microscopic, powder analysis, moisture content, ash and extractive values of the root material. The preliminary phytochemical screening of root extracts showed presence of various phytoconstituents like alkaloids, glycosides, tannins, and terpenoids.

6 illus, 4 tables, 20 ref

009655   Baishya R;Barik S K;Upadhaya K (Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, School of Life Sciences, North-Eastern Hill Univ, Shillong-793 022, Email: sarojkbarik@yahoo.com) : Distribution pattern of above ground biomass in natural and plantation forests of humid tropics in northeast India. Trop Ecol 2009, 50(2), 295-304.

Tree aboveground biomass (AGB) distribution and carbon storage in different DBH (diameter at breast height) classes were compared between natural semi-evergreen forest and sal plantation forest in the humid tropical region of northeast India. The natural forest had lower AGB (323.9 Mg ha^{-1) than the plantation forest (406.4 Mg ha-1). About 49% of the AGB was present in > 60 cm dbh trees in the natural forest against 24% in the plantation forest. The carbon storage was highest in 60-80 cm and 40-60 cm dbh classes in the natural forest and plantation forest, respectively. The differential AGB and carbon distribution pattern has been related to past disturbance history and age of the forests. Although both the forests had potential for carbon sequestration due to presence of large number of trees belonging to small dbh classes, the plantation forest had an edge over the natural forest because of better silvicultural practices.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 55 ref

009654   Bai R;Zhao X;Fengwang M A;Cuiying Li (College of Horticulture, Northwest A&F Univ, Yangling, 712100, Shaanxi Province, China, Email: fwm64@sina.com) : Identification and bioassay of allelopathic substances from the root exudates of Malus prunifolia. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 477-84.

Root exudates of Malus prunifolia were collected and isolated using XAD-16 resin. The methanol extracts from the root exudates were detected with gas chromatography-mass spectroscopy (GC-MS). Twenty compounds (hydrocarbons, organic acid, phenol, esters, alcohol, benzene, etc.) were detected, but phthalate derivates, butylated hydroxytoluene, sitosterol and palmitic acid occurred in higher quantity. The allelopathic effects of root exudates and four main identified compounds were determined on the radical elongation of M. prunifolia. The solutions of 4-compounds and root exudates inhibited the radical length of M. prunifolia. The degree of inhibition increased with the increasing concentration of root exudates and compounds. These results demonstrated that root exudates of M. prunifolia were

^ssc2 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

009653   Aswatha Ram H N;Shirwaikar A;Shirwaikar A (Pharmacognosy Dep, Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Manipal Univ, Manipal-576 104) : Determination of heavy metals in vasaka leaves. Aryavaidyan 2008, 22(1), 36-8.

Adhatoda vasica, commonly known as adusoge, is widely used for its bronchodilatory, anti-asthmatic and oxytocic properties. As the source of vasaka cannot always be ensured from the same geographical location, there may be variations in the standards prescribed by World Health Organization. In the present investigation, an attempt is made to determine the heavy metal content in vasaka leaves collected from two different places in Karnataka.

6 ref

009652   Aswale P N;Ade A B (Botany Dep, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Marathwads Univ, Aurangabad-431 004) : Effect of pH on biodegradation of polythene by serretia marscence. Ecotech 2009, 1(2), 152-3.

Polythene is thin and durable therefore used for various purposes in daily life. It degrades slowly by the treatment of UV light and temperature. Biodegradation is also possible using polythene degrading microbes from the dumping sites. In Pthe present work polythene was treated with the bacterium, Serratia marscescence at various pHs. The maximum degradation was observed at pH 4.

1 table, 8 ref

009651   Arora A;Gulrajani M L;Gupta D (Textile Technology Dep, Indian Institute of Technology, Hauz Khas, Delhi-110 016, Email: deeptibgupta@gmail.com) : Indentification and characterization of Ratanjot (Arnebia nobilis Reichb.f.). Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 142-5.

In literature, the vernacular name Ratanjot is attributed to at least 15 plant species of four different families. Taxonomic analysis revealed that true Ratanjot comprises of the crude rootstocks of the plant Arnebia nobilis Reichb.f. Interestingly, this material, though abundantly available in India, is not indigenous to this country but imported from Afghanistan. Macroscopic analysis of authenticated sample showed the material to be in the form of purple brown roots which are fusiform, twisted, covered with papery layers and have a pungent odour. Under SEM, the adaxial surface showed the presence of epidermal cells with stomata and epicuticular wax secretions whereas, abaxial surface showed only elongated epidermal cells. The powdered roots gave orangish brown colour with concentrated nitric acid and bright red colour with acetic acid during chemical identification. TLC analysis of the n-hexane extract showed the presence of five red and pink components. Shikonin was identified as one of the components; however, it is not the major component.

2 illus, 13 ref

009650   Angelini P;Pagiotti R;Venanzoni R;Granetti B (Dipartimento di Biologia Applicata, Borgo XX Giugno, 74 - 06121 Perugia, Italy, Email: paolaangelini@ymail.com) : Antifungal and allelopathic effects of Asafoetida against Trichoderma harzianum and Pleurotus spp.. Allelopathy J 2009, 23(2), 357-67.

Methanol extract (MeOH) of Asafoetida oleogutn-Tesin was assayed for its in-vitro ability to control Trichoderma harzianum. The thirty-two components of MeOH-extracted resin were identified by GC-MS analysis. The antifungal and allelopathic effects of the MeOH extracts concentrations against T. harzianum and Pleuwtus spp., were investigated in dual culture experiments on an agar-based medium. MeOH extract showed fungistatic and fungicidal properties against T. harzianum strains and Pleurotus spp. at higher concentrations. In dual culture, all strains of T. harzianum were antagonistic to Pleurotus spp. than in control. When MeOH extracts concentrations was added to the substrate culture, the antagonistic activity of T. harzianum against the Pleurotus spp. was moderate (0.625 μg/ml of MeOH extract) or weak (1.25 μg/ml of MeOH extract) against the Pleurotus spp. that either completely or partially replaced T. harzianum. TEM observations revealed that fungal growth inhibition from the MeOH extract was accompanied by marked morphological and cytological changes.

2 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

009649   Anbazhagi T;Kadavul K;Suguna G;Petrus A J A (Plant Sciences Dep, Kanchi Mamunivar Centre for Post-Graduate Studies, Puducherry-605 008, Email: kadavul2004@yahoo.com) : Pharmacognostical and in vitro antioxidant potential of Cleome gynandra Linn. leaves. Nat Prod Radiance 2009, 8(2), 151-7.

Cleome gynandra Linn, of Cleomaceae (Capparaceae) family is an annual herb, growing up to 0.6-1m in height and is popular in the Ayurveda, Siddha, Folk and Tibetian systems of medicine. The present paper deals with the pharmacognostical study, including the macroscopic, microscopic, fluorescence and phytochemical characteristics, which enables the identification of the leafy vegetable, as well as the determination of the antioxidant potential and the predominant classes of antioxidants that contribute to the activity.

2 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref