017577   Ali Z A;Ahmad S;Wasiuddin; (Survey of Medicinal Plants Unit, , Post Box 70, Aligarh-202 001, Email: regional Research Institute of Unani Medicine (CCRUM)) : Contribution to the ethnomedicinal flora of Haldwani Forest Division, Nainital (Uttarakhand). Hippocratic J Unani med 2014, 9(1), 143-9.

The results of an ethnobotanical survey conducted during March 2003 in the Haldwani Forest Division, Nainital of Kumaon region, Uttarakhand are presented in this report. Ethno-medicinal uses of 25 plant species belonging to 21 different families of angiosperms have been described. For each plant species are given the correct botanical and prevalent local names, part used, claimed medicinal use(s) and mode of administration. Majority of these uses have not been, hitherto, described. Investigations to their pharmacological action and chemical constituents are re-stressed in an effort to discover new drugs of plant origin to treat specific diseases and conditions so far incurable in modern medicine.

27 ref

016587   Yeragi L A;Mendhulkar V D (Botany Dep, Institute of Science, 15-Madame Cama Road, Mumbai-400 032, Email: laxmikantyeragi@yahoo.com) : ICP-AES analysis for bioaccumulation of heavy metals in mangrove plant, Excoecaria agallocha Linn. collected from polluted area in Mumbai. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 497-500.

Heavy metal accumulation was evaluated in an important mangrove plant Excoecaria agallocha Linn. collected from the polluted sites of Vikhroli creek, Mumbai and non polluted site Mithbav, Sindhudurg. The heavy metal analysis was done in leaf extract using Inductively Coupled Plasma - Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (ICP-AES) in IIT Powai, Mumbai. The plant leaf samples like, Green Mature leaves, Yellow senescent leaves and Red senescent leaves were used for the analysis of studied metal elements. Normally, total metallic content in the plant indicates gross degree of pollution present in the soil and surroundings. Presence of Cd, As, Pb and Zn shows high environmental risk. In the present study, Mg, Pb, Zn are detected in plant and soil samples in the quantity exceeding the Maximum Level Recommended for Livestock (MLRL), while Cd and As were found slightly above the MLRL level. The highest estimate for Mg was observed in Yellow senecent leaf sample of polluted site i.e. (2166.325 ± 17.366 μg/g) and lowest concentration was detected in red senescent leaves of Mithbav site (1561.269 ± 21.564 μg/g). The highest estimate for Zn was observed in Green mature leaf sample compared to all other leaf samples. It was (80.436 ± 0.522 μg/g) compared to control (71.911 ± 3.033 μg/g). Pb in Red senescent leaf sample was (15.489 ± 0.556 μg/g) against (4.478 ± 0.221 μg/g) and lowest concentration detected in Red senescent leaves collected from vikhroli site i.e. (0.045 μg/g). In soil sample the highest concentration detected in vikhroli site sample i.e. (O.14 μg/g). Exceeding level of metal concentrations to MLRL is considered as an indication of a risk of toxicity and food chain contamination in the studied area.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

016586   Tiwari A P;Sikarwar R L S;Dubey P C (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002, Email: rlssikarwar@rediffmail.com) : Documentation of ethnomedicinal knowledge among the tribes of achanakmar-amarkantak biosphere reserve, Central India. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2014, 5(4), 345-50.

The paper provided ethnomedicinal uses of 33 plant species belonging to 33 genera and 26 families used by the tribal communities of Achanakmar- Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve (AABR), Central India. These plants are mostly used to cure seminal weakness, jaundice, antidote, kidney stones, skin disease, liver and spleen enlargements, etc. Part of the plant used, dosage, mode of drug preparation and administration in different ailments and diseases are described. Ethnomedicinal survey was conducted in the remote villages of AABR during the period 2007-2010. The plants species have been arranged alphabetically with their family, local name and ethnomedicinal uses.

4 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

016585   Thoppil J E;Tajo A;Minija J;Deena M J; Sreeranjini K;Leeja L;Sivadasan M;Alfarhan A H (Cell and Molecular Biology Div, Botany Dep, Calicut Univ, Calicut-673 635, Email: jethoppil@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of the essential oils of three species of Pogostemon. J envir Biol 2014, 35(5), 795-8.

Antimicrobial studies on 7 strains of bacteria and 8 strains of fungi using disk diffusion assay, revealed potential activities of crude essential oils in Pogostemon? benghalensis, P. purpurascens and P. vestitus. Essential oils produced highest inhibition zones against Staphylococcus aureus (39.33, 37.33 and 35.67 mm for P. benghalensis essential oil) and Candida albicans (34.33, 26.33 and 17.67 mm for P. purpurascens essential oil) among bacteria and fungi respectively, when compared with pure reference standards (35 mm for Gentamycin sulphate (40 mg ml^{-1) against S. aureus and 30.33 mm for Nystatin [50 IU] against C. albicans). Results also indicated the existence of potential antimicrobial activity of Pogostemon essential oils against other microorganisms viz., Proteus vulgaris, E. coli and Aspergillus parasiticus. Leaf essential oils of P. purpurascens and P. benghalensis can be considered as a new source for developing local antifungal and antibacterial agents. An attempt was made to highlight the promising plant species for further investigation which leads to drug development.}

1 table, 27 ref

016584   Suresh A;Reddy S R (Microbiology Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009, Email: sanditi_ramreddy@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of plant growth promoting and biocontrol characteristics of fluorescent pseudomonads associated with jowar. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 323-9.

Fluorescent pseudomonads associated with rhizosphere soils of jowar grown in different agro-edaphic conditions were evaluated for their plant growth promoting and biocontrol characteristics. Out of 250, 20 FLP isolates were found to be promising strains. These isolates possessed the ability to produce growth promoting substances like IAA, GA, phosphate solubilization and also biocontrol characteristics like the production of HCN, siderophores, glucanase, chitinase and protease. Based on these characteristics, three isolates viz, JPf2, JPf4 and JPF16 were selected for further evaluation. These strains have also shown resistance towards heavy metals, high salt concentration and pH and also exhibited significant antifungal activity and enhanced the seed germination and efficient root colonization. Further, artificial inoculations have also clearly shown to enhance the growth in terms of height, dry weight of shoot and root. Hence, it is concluded that these strains could be used as bioinoculants for jowar crop.

2 illus, 5 tables, 39 ref

016583   Suleiman M M;Mamman M;Sidiama A;Ighoja E J; Tauheed M;Talba A M (Pharmacology and Toxicology Dep, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ahmadu Bello Univ, Zaria, Nigeria, Email: mohsulai@yahoo.com) : Evaluation of anthelmintic activity of Nigerian ethnoveterinary plants; Cassia occidentalis and Guiera senegalensis. Vet Wld 2014, 7(7), 536-41.

This study was designed to evaluate the anthelmintic activity of the stem-barks of Cassia occidentalis and Guiera senegalensis which are used traditionally to treat gastrointestinal helminth infections in goat. Phytochemical analysis using standard techniques was used to detect secondary metabolites contained in the plants. In vitro anthelmintic activity of the crude methanol extracts of the plants was determined using egg hatch inhibition test (EHIT) and larval development inhibition assay (LDIA). The extracts of C. occidentalis and G. senegalensis inhibited hatching of eggs and larval development of Haemonchus contortus in a concentration-dependent manner. At concentrations of 0.1, 1, 10 and 100 mg/ml, the extract of C. occidentalis produced significant (p <60> 0.05) inhibition of egg hatching of H. contortus eggs when compared with the untreated (distilled water) control group. C. occidentalis inhibited, by up to 86%, the larval development of H. contortus. Similarly, the extract of G. senegalensis at concentrations of 10 and 100 mg/ml produced significant (p <60> 0.05) inhibition of egg hatching of H. contortus eggs and inhibited larval development by up to 85% of the parasite. C. occidentalis (EC₅₀ = 4.23 mg/ml) was found to be more efficacious than G. senegalensis (EC₅₀ = 88.24 mg/ml) against H. contortus eggs. However, G. senegalensis (EC₅₀ = 0.0012 mg/ml) was more effective than C. occidentalis (EC₅₀ = 0.11 mg/ml) against the larvae of H. contortus. The crude methanol extracts of C. occidentalis and G. senegalensis possess in vitro anthelmintic activity against H. contortus that requires detailed in vivo pharmacological and toxicological trials to justify their use in clinical veterinary practice.

4 illus, 45 ref

016582   Srivastava V (Botany Dep, Dayanand Post Graduate College, Hisar-125 001, Email: viveksrivastava1969@gmail.com) : Cumulative impact of Cd (II) and Cr (VI) on percent seed germination and germination index in Helianths annuus L. varieties. Biochem Cell Archs 2014, 14(2), 307-10.

An experiment was conducted to examine the combined effect of various doses of two heavy metals i.e. Cd(II) and Cr (VI) on three cultivars of oil seed crop, Helianthus annuus L., by keeping the concentration of Cd(II) as fixed and varying the concentration of Cr(VI). The various doses of two heavy metals were 0 mg/l (control) to (Cd₅₀ + Cr₁₀), (Cd₅₀ + Cr₂₀), (Cd₅₀ + Cr₅₀), (Cd₅₀ + Cr₁₀₀) and (Cd₅₀ + Cr₂₀₀) mg/l were provided to seeds grown in Petriplates in controlled laboratory conditions. The germination was observed on 3rd, 5th and 8th day of experiment and seed germination percentage and germination index was calculated. It was found that as the number of days increased from 3rd, 5th to 8th day of experiment the percent of germination increased in control i.e. in 0 mg/l heavy metal treatment, maximum seed germination was reported up to 96.66% in PSH-569 variety. But in the first and second metal treatment i.e. (Cd₅₀ + Cr₁₀) mg/l and (Cd₅₀ + Cr₂₀) mg/l the percent seed germination reduced to 46 showing that when the two metal present together, they have profound inhibitory effect on seed germination process. In higher doses of two metals i.e. (Cd₅₀ + Cr₁₀₀) mg/l and (Cd₅₀ + Cr₂₀₀) mg/l the mean germination percentage in all three varieties of sunflower was reduced to 23.33 and 11.11 respectively on 8th day of experiment. But maximum seed germination percent and seed germination index was reported in PSH-569 variety in all the treatments, showing maximum tolerance of this variety to Cd(II) and Cr(VI) as compared to other two varieties.

2 tables, 16 ref

016581   Srivastava R K;Singh A;Srivastava G P;Lehri A;Niranjan A;Tewari S K;Kumar K;Kumar S (NO, Fragrance and Flavour Development Centre, Kannauj-209 726, Email: rks@ffdcindia.org) : Chemical constituents and biological activities of promising aromatic plant Nagarmotha (Cyperus scariosus R.Br.). Proc Indian Natn Sci Acad 2014, 80(3), 525-36.

Cyperus scariosus R.Br. (Nagarmotha) is pestiferous perennial, delicate slender sedge found wildly in various parts of the country, especially in damp or marshy areas and collected wildly for extraction of its essential oil using steam distillation. The rhizomes of C. scariosus possess pleasant aromatic odour, the essential oil is used as anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial and anti-fungal agent and it is also used as one of the ingredients in several formulations for the Ayurvedic systems of medicine. Phytochemical studies have shown that the major chemical components of this herb are polyphenol, flavonol, glycoside, alkaloid, saponins, sesquiterpenoids and essential oil. Rhizome of the plant is used in fever, arthritis, diuretic, nervine tonic, treatment of diarrhea and dysentery, leprosy, bronchitis, amenorrhea and blood disorders. The fruits of the plant are used as carminative, diuretic tonic and have stomachic. The details of plant and its essential oil, chemical constituents and biological activities have been described in this review.

^iia2 tables, 28 ref

016580   Srivastava P (Botany Dep, Udai Pratap P.G. College, Varanasi-221 002) : Optimization of nickel on petal senescence in the flower of Hibiscus rosa sinensis. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 455-6.

Attempt has been made to study the effect of different concentrations of nickel on petal senescence in the flower of Hibiscus rosa sinensis. The studies revealed that low levels of nickel enhanced the anthocyanin content. High levels of nickel had toxic effect.

1 table, 12 ref

016579   Srimeena N;Merina Prem Kumari S (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, Agriculture College and Research Institute, Madurai-625 104, Email: meenanagaiah@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial spectrum of chilli (Capsicum annum) colonized by AM fungi. Biochem Cell Archs 2014, 14(2), 301-5.

Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) forms symbiotic association with the roots of higher plants. The AMF appears to benefit by improving the uptake of phosphate and other nutrients from soil and also increases the disease tolerance to the host plant. Mycorrhizal plants produce certain substances that have been indicated as copartners in the resistance to the attack of root pathogens. Hence, the present study was aimed to identify antimicrobial compounds produced by the AMF infected chilli plant. The GC-MS analysis of root and leaf samples of chilli indicated the presence of compounds such as carboxy-1- methyl-2-azetidione, 1, 2-cyclobutanedicarboxylic acid, tetra hydrogeranyl-2-methyl butyrate, 1, 2-benzenedicarboxylic acid and benzaldehyde in AMF inoculated plant root and leaf samples and these compounds are reported as potential antimicrobial substances. Fatty acids with antimicrobial properties are present in both leaf and root samples of AMF inoculated chilli. Dibutyl phthalate is a bioactive compound present at high percentage in the leaves of AMF inoculated chilli. Shahamin B, a diterpenoid with antifeedant properties was found in AMF infected chilli leaves. The present study indicated that antimicrobial compounds are produced only by the mycorrhizal plants and these compounds are involved in the reduction of root fungal pathogen infection, thereby enhancing the growth and yield of crop plants.

4 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

016578   Sravanthi J;Rao S G (Botany Dep, Univ College of Science, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: janapatlasravanthi@gmail.com) : Antioxidative studies in Moringa oleifera Lam. Ann Phytomed 2014, 3(2), 101-5.

Moringa oleifera Lam. (Moringa) is a medicinal plant found in most parts of the world. Various parts of this plant such as leaves, roots, seeds, barks, fruits, flowers and immature pods are reported to possess various therapeutic properties including antitumour, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive, cholesterol lowering, antidiabetic, and antimicrobial properties. The aim of the study was to evaluate antioxidants in Moringa oleifera Lam.by spectrophotometric method (phenols, flavonoids, flavonols, total chlorophyll, total carotenoid, β-carotene, radical scavenging activity by FRAP, ABTS, DPPH assays and enzymatic activitivies of catalase, peroxides, polyphenol oxidase, glutathione reductase-a). Results showed higher phenol content (260 ± 0.58 mg/ g dry. wt.) in Moringa oleifera leaves than other antioxidant compounds and FRAP activity was recorded maximum (510 ± 10.1mg/g dry. wt.) than the other scavenging assays. Study concludes that using leaves of Moringa oleifera in health promotive purposes may be a better option than other parts of the plant.

2 tables, 59 ref

016577   Sinha A K (Botany Dep, Bankura Sammilani College, Bankura-722 102, Email: anjansinha06@gmail.com) : Biochemical analysis of Psophocarpus tetrgonolobus L. (Winged bean) and its role on restoration of degraded land of Raniganj and Barjora coalmine areas of West Bengal, India. J appl nat Sci 2014, 6(2), 792-6.

This is meet the growing demands of energy, continuous supply of coal is necessary because coal is the primary source of energy. About 70% of coal mining is being done by open cast methods which is most destructive activity and it severely damages the ecosystem. Reclamation of degraded land is therefore necessary after any mining activity. The biochemical parameters like Chlorophyll, carbohydrate and protein content of Psophocarpus tetragonolobus (Winged bean) studied here were considered as measure to test the suitability of Winged bean in various soil-OB dump compositions (P1 to P5). The findings revealed that biochemical property like chlorophyll and protein content of Winged bean was retained up to 1:1 soil-OB dump condition but after that it was decreased significantly whenever OB dump composition was increased. Chlorophyll content of the plant in P₁ to P₃ condition was 8.2, 8.17 and 8.02 mg/100 gm respectively but it was decreased significantly in P₃ and P₄ condition, i.e. 7.72 & 7.47 mg/100gm respectively. Carbohydrate content of the plant in P₁ to P₃ condition was 3.72, 3.7 and 3.61 gm/100 gm respectively but it again decreased significantly in P₃ and P₄ condition, i.e. 3.32 & 3.1 gm/100gm respectively. In spite of these findings, seeds of winged bean contained high protein and rest of the plant parts were also very important as food and fodder and this plant was able to grow on less water condition which made it suitable for the land restoration of degraded mining land both from ecological and socio-economic point of view.

016576   Singh O P;Ojha C M;Raghuvanshi S;Pande S K; Swamy D (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Dep, College of Horticulture and Forestry N.D. Univ of Agriculture and Tech, Kumarganj, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh-224 229, Email: omprakashsingh916@gmail.com) : Variability for morphological traits among selected genotypes of Isabgol (Plantago ovata). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 577-80.

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2012-13 at M.E.S. Horticulture, College of Horticulture and Forestry, N.D. University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad with 42 genotypes of Isabgol (Plantago ovata). The experiment was laid out in randomized block design replicated twice in a plot size of 4.0 x 1.2 m^{2 having spacing of 30 cm row to row and within row 10 cm apart. The five randomly chosen plants were selected for recording the data. The observations were recorded for the character viz., number of branches per plant, length of spike (cm), number of seeds per spike, days to first emergence of spike and seed yield (q/ha). The maximum number of branches per plant were recorded for the genotype H.I.-1 (27.30) followed by D.M. - 8 and minimum for genotype Ahemdabad-1 (7.00). The maximum lengthy spikes (4.39 cm) were measured in genotype H.I.-4 followed by D.M.-1 (4.22 cm) while the shortest spikes (2.46 cm) were noted in Ahmadabad-1. The earliest flowering was observed in DM-5 (70 days) and latest in GI-2, PB-31 & HI-96 (76 days). The maximum number of seeds per spike was noticed for the genotype JI-9 (63.85) and minimum for HI-2009 (39.65). The highest seed yield per quintal was harvested from the genotype PB-62 (10.66 q/ha) and minimum from HI-4 & DM-1 (1.56). The estimates of PCV were higher than their corresponding GCV. The maximum PCV was recorded for seed yield (48.77) followed by number of branches per plant (28.24) and number of seeds per spike (11.98) and minimum for days to emergence of spike (2:20). The heritability in broad sence ranged from 59.97% to 99.72%. The highest heritability in broad sense was noticed for seed yield (99.72%) followed by number of branches per plant (72.78%). GA in per cent of mean varied from 4.44 to 100.19. The high heritability coupled with high genetic advance in per cent of mean was noticed for seed yield followed by spike length.}

3 tables, 5 ref

016575   Singh O P;Ojha C M;Raghuvanshi S;Pande S K; Swamy D (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Dep, College of Horticulture and Forestry N.D. Univ of Agriculture and Tech, Kumarganj, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh-224 229, Email: omprakashsingh916@gmail.com) : Standardization of optimum planting time of Mandookparni (Centella asiatica) for U.P. conditions. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 561-2.

Field experiment was conducted during 2012-13 at M.E.S, Horticulture, College of Horticulture and Forestry, N.D.U.A.T., Kumarganj, Faizabad in Randomized block design with five treatments in four replications. The plot size was 4.5 x 3 m^{2 with spacing having 75 cm row to row and with in row 75 cm plant to plant. The treatment were variable dates of planting i.e., 1st February, 15th February, 1st March, 15th March and 30th March. The normal cultural practices were followed. The data was recorded for the characters viz plant height, internodes length, petiole length, fresh weight of herb and dry weight of herb. The plant height of Centella asiatica cultivar Vallabh Medha varied significantly due to date of plantings which ranged from 13.93 cm to 29.30 cm being the highest in the plants planted on 15th February (29.30 cm.) followed by 1st March (24.33 cm.), while the late planting on 30* March achieve the minimum plant height (13.93 cm). Internodes length ranged from 7.67 cm to 10.55cm. The 1st March planting revealed the maximum inter node length (10.55 cm). The petiole length was recorded maximum in the plants planted on 15th February (24.15 cm) and minimum in 30th March planting (12.17 cm). The highest fresh and dry herbage yield was obtained from the plants planted on 15th February (93.05 q/ha & 19.55 q/ha respectively) and the minimum fresh and dry herbage yield was harvested from 30th March planting (30.22 q/ha and 6.31 q/ha respectively).}

1 table, 2 ref

016574   Singh O P;Ojha C M;Pande S K;Raghuvanshi S; Swamy D (Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Dep, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Faizabd, Uttar Pradesh-224 229, Email: omprakashsingh916@gmail.com) : Genetic variability for agronomical traits among selected genotypes of opium poppy (Papaver somniferum L.). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 567-71.

Field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2012-13 at M.E.S. Horticulture, College of Horticulture and Forestry, N.D.U.A.T., Kumarganj, Faizabad with 42 genotypes of opium poppy. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design replicated thrice in a plot size of 4.0 x 0.6 m^{2 having spacing of 30cm row to row and within row 10 cm. apart. The five randomly chosen plants were selected for recording the data. The observations were recorded for the character viz., plant height (cm), number of leaves per plant, number of stigmatic rays, peduncle length (cm), length of leaves (cm), width of leaves (cm), days to first flowering, number of capsules per plant, capsule length (cm.), capsule width (cm.), seed yield (q/ha.) and husk yield (q/ha.). The maximum plant height was recorded for the genotype ND-11 (143.80 cm) and minimum for genotype ND-89 (100.50 cm). The number of leaves per plant varried from 11.5 (ND-38) to 20.2 (ND-47). Number of stigmatic rays ranged from 10.2 to 16.9 in ND-38 and ND-42 respectively. Maximum peduncle length (32.6 cm) was noted in genotype UOP-80 while it was observed minimum (20.7 cm) in ND-89. The maximum length leaves (29.3 cm) were measured in genotype ND-9 while the shortest leaves (14.5 cm) were noted in ND-208. The leaf width varied from 8.7 cm to 20.00 cm being maximum in ND-4-1 and minimum in ND-24. The earliest flowering was observed in ND-7 and ND-8 (82 days) and the latest in genotype ND-42 (102 days). The number of capsules per plant ranged from 1.2 to 3.4 for the genotype JA-16 and ND-11 and ND-21 respectively. The longest capsules were recorded in genotype ND-36 (4.85 cm) while the shortest in genotype ND-21 (2.39 cm). The capsule width varied from 2.35 cm to 4.10 cm for the genotype ND-38 and ND-4-1 respectively. The maximum seed was harvested in genotype NOP-4 (6.64 q/ha). and minimum for genotype ND-4-2 (0.55 q/ha). The husk yield ranged from 1.63 q/ha (ND-38) to 5.20 q/ha (NOP-4). The magnitude of PCV were higher than their corresponding GCV, however, the maximum PCV was noticed for seed yield (42.08) followed by number of capsules per plant (24.32) and husk yield (22.76) and minimum for days to first flowering (5.04). The heritability in broad sense ranged from 75.67% to 98.83%. The highest heritability in broad sense was noticed fro plant height followed by seed yield and leaf width and medium for days to first flowering. GA in per cent of mean varied from 13.65 to 84.1. The higher heritability coupled with high genetic advance in per cent of mean was noticed for seed yield per plant followed by husk yield per plant and number of capsule per plant.}

3 tables, 3 ref

016573   Sil S K (Botany Dep, Gour Banga Univ, Malda-732 103) : Comparative account on In vitro organogenesis and nitrate induced somatic embryogenesis of Solanum nigrum L. and Solanum torvum L. using leaf disc as explant. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 467-71.

Benzyl amino purine (BA) was found to be more potent than Kinetin for shoot regeneration, whereas multiple microshoots sprouting was favoured by BA in association with naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and lower dose of Thidiazuron. Embryogenic callii were induced in a medium containing MS basal plus BA, Kinetin (Kn) and Gibberellic acid (GA₃). Salinity tolerant cell lines were screened under selective pressure with different concentrations of sodium chloride (NaCl) and potassium chloride (KC1). Young leaf as explant scored better. The effects of different carbon sources, total inorganic nitrogen concentration, nitrate to ammonium ratio and the interaction between calcium and zeatin (ZEA) levels on somatic embryogenesis from Solanum nigrum L. leaf disc explants were studied in three independent factorial experiments. MS medium supplemented with the monosaccharides glucose or fructose at high concentrations (4%) gave consistently highly embryogenic cultures. Independently of the effect of the nitrogen content, the balance between both ionic forms (NO₃^{- and NH₄+) played a dramatic role on the induction of somatic embryogenesis and somatic embryos growth. Nitrate is important to calli differentiation and growth and a high ammonium content increased somatic embryo frequency.}

5 tables, 15 ref

016572   Sherzad A;Ashwani Kumar (Plant Protection Dep, S.H.I.A.T.S., Allahabad-211 007) : Comparative efficacy of insecticides and Beauveria bassiana in management of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). Ann Pl Prot Sci 2014, 22(2), 268-71.

Among chemical insecticides, spinosad 45% ES @ 0.40%, dichlorvos 76 EC @ 0.60% and imidacloprid 200 SL @ 4ml/litre concentration were found to be most effictive. Plots with these chemicals had fruit damage percentage viz. 0.53%, 1.00% and 1.04%, respectively. Spinosad 45% ES @ 0.40% was most efficacious. However, the efficacy of dichlorvos and imidacloprid were non-significant with each other. The treatments with biopesticides viz. Beauveria bassiana @ 4.16 g/lit were also effective resulting 1.5% fruit damage percentage compared with control plot (3.8%). Population of Helicoverpa armigera increased and reached its peak level of 3.8%/plant during 3rd week of March (standard week 11th). The highest fruit yield of 367.3 q/ha was registered in spinosad followed by B. bassiana 328.7 q/ha and low as 203.0 q/ha was recorded in untreated control. The best cost benefit ratio was obtained with spinosad 45% ES @ 0.04% (1:11.19) followed by B. bassiana (1:10.83), chlorpyriphos 20 EC @ 0.04% (1:9.60), dichlorvos 76 EC (1:9.52), imidacloprid 200 SL @ 4ml/litre (1:7.38), cypermethrin 25 EC (1:7.08) and monocrotophos 36 SL @ 0.04% (1:6.91).

2 tables, 10 ref

016571   Sharma O P (Botany Dep, Government College, Bundi, Rajasthan, Email: opsharmabundi68@gmail.com) : Utilization and practices of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb. in Hadoti plateau (South East Rajasthan). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 433-4.

Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb is a medium sized deciduous tree, commonly known as Tendu. The present paper communicates information about general practices and traditional and economic uses of Diospyros melanoxylon Roxb in Hadoti plateau South East Rajasthan.

1 illus, 6 ref

016570   Sen S K;Behera L M (Botany Dep, Panchayat College, Bargarh-768 028, Email: sunilsen06@rediffmail.com) : Traditional use of some ethno-medicinal plants of Lamiaceae family in Bargarh district of Odisha (India). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 401-4.

The paper presents 12 medicinally important plant species belong to 10 genera of family Lamiaceae. A survey was carried out in different parts of Bargarh district to gather information regarding the use of medicinal plants by the different tribals and people of other communities settled in the district. A list of plant species along with their Botanical names, English name, Local names, and the mode of administration have been enumerated.

1 table, 43 ref

016569   Sarawat P;Bharat Veer (Botany Dep, S.G. (P.G.) College, Sarurpur Khurd, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh, Email: sarawatpreeti20@gmail.com) : Impact of municipal and industrial waste water on corn (Zea mays L.) cultivars. Hortflora Res Spectrum 2014, 3(1), 100-2.

The impact of municipal and industrial waste water was studied on seed germination and seedling growth of different corn cultivars (viz. 31Y45,Shakti-1 and Siddhi). The experiment was formulated with four treatments (i.e. 25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) of waste water with three replicates each. Tap water was taken as control. The seed germination and seedling growth were inhibited in treated sets and this inhibitory effect increases with increased in the concentration of treatment. At lower concentration i.e. at 25% of wastewater, however, some promotion in seedling was recorded. Cultivar specific and organ specific differences often exists. Thus, waste water after proper dilution may be used for irrigation of crops.

3 tables, 10 ref

016568   Salve K M;More A D (Post-Graduate Research Station, Botany Dep, Fergusson College, Pune Univ, Pune, Maharashtra) : Dark green leaves and luxuriant mutants in Coriandrum sativum Linn. (coriander). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 511-12.

Coriandrum sativum Linn. was treated with physical mutagen Gamma rays at the dosage of 10 kR, 20 kR, 30 kR and 40 kR and chemical mutagen like Ethyl Methane Sulphonate (EMS) at the concentrations of 0.050%, 0.075%, 0.10% and 0.125%. In M₂ generation various morphological mutants related to quantitative characters were studied. It showed two mutants like Dark Green Leaves and Luxuriant mutant. These mutants showed better yield contributing parameters and even more total essential oil content as compare to control.

1 table, 6 ref

016567   Sahu G;Sahoo S;Rath S P (Botany Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: shibaprasad2001@yahoo.co.uk) : Bio-absorption of bio-chemical study of water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) with reference to chromium and cadmium. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 311-16.

Present work is oriented for phytoremediation of these two heavy metals by aquatic macrophytes like Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes). Standard procedure has been followed for different biological treatment to reduce the metal concentration and effectiveness of the photosynthetic pigment like chlorophyll and carotenoid. It was observed that the concentration of Cr and Cd has been reduced at the lower concentration due to the absorption by the macrophytes. On the otherhand, though the reduction was not increased in higher concentration, it negatively effects the chlorophyll and the carotenoid present in the macrophytes. Hence, it is always advisable to stick to the lower concentration where the rate of absorption is more in one hand and the plants are not affected on other hand.

6 illus, 6 tables, 19 ref

016566   Sahoo N;Sahoo S;Rath S P (Botany Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: shibaprasad2001@yahoo.co.uk) : Multiple shoot induction from the cotyledonary explant of Jatropha curcas L. : a bio-diesel plant. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 275-7.

Present work is oriented for regeneration of multiple shoots induced on cotyledon explants reared from in vitro germinated seedlings of jatropha curcas L. using Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with N^{6-benzyl adenine (BA) and Kinetin (KN) either alone or in combination with indole-3-acetic acid (IAA). Kinetin (2mg/lt) along with IAA (0.25 mg/lt) gave the highest response (75%) with regeneration of 5.5 ± 0.3 shoots per explant. The regenerated microshoots were transferred to root induction medium containing half-strength MS supplemented with either IBA or IAA. Rooting of microshoots was achieved best on half-strength MS medium supplemented with IBA (2mg/lt). Rooted plantlets were acclimatized under the green house with 70% survival.}

7 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

016565   Rustum A T;Mali B S (Botany Dep, D.P Bhosale College, Koregaon Dist- Satara-415 501) : Effect of air pollution on leaf structure of Ficus benghalensis L. plant on NH-4 divider. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 375-8.

In this paper anatomical changes induced by vehicle fuel gases air pollutants in Ficus benghalensis L. were followed. This plant species is able to absorb, detoxify and tolerates high level of vehicles fuel gases air pollution. The tolerance degree which occurs in, numbers and size of cystolith, hairs, tannin, dark deposits (phenolic compounds) within hairs, Mesophyll, Xylem vessels, Pith, Parenchyma are observed. The plant species from NH-4 divider (highly polluted sites) and College campus (non-polluted site) were investigated by light microscope cuticle, dark deposits of smoke, fly ash, particulates, cystolith and Tannin could be observed. These histological modifications which occurred potentially be used as biological markers for vehicle fuel gases air pollution presence.

15 ref

016564   Rohamare Y;Dhumal K N;Nikam T D (Botany Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: yogitaskandekar@gmail.com) : Response of ajowan to water stress induced by polyethylene glycol (PEG) 6000 during seed germination and seedling growth. J envir Biol 2014, 35(5), 789-93.

Seed germination and subsequent metabolic changes in Ajowan (Trachyspermum ammi L.) (NRCSS AA-2) seedlings was studied under water limiting conditions, imposed by increasing concentrations of polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000). Five water stress conditions (0, -0.05, -0.1, -0.15 and -0.2 MPa) were created in the laboratory in a completely randomized design. The results revealed that water stress (-0.2 MPa) significantly reduced seed germination components like final germination percent (80%) radical (64%) and plumule (63%) length, fresh (63%) and dry (74%) weight of seedlings and vigor index (SVI) by 92% over control. Decrease in osmotic potential resulted in decreased protein content (56%) with concomitant increase in total sugars (55%) at -0.2 MPa as compared to control. Significant increase in free proline and glycine betaine content by 1.5 to 2 folds was observed at the highest water stress condition. The seedlings exhibited increased activity of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase under stressed condition. In the present study, it was found that Ajowan was a moderately drought tolerant species at laboratory level.

3 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

016563   Rehman H U;Ahmad J;Chester K;Tajuddin T E; Ahmad S (Pharmacognosy and Phytochemistry Dep, Bioactive Natural Product Laboratory, Faculty of Pharmacy, Hamdard Uni, Hamdard Nagar, New Delhi-110 062, Email: sahmad_jh@yahoo.co.in) : Chemoprofiling and tissue culture studies on Picrorhiza kurroa royle ex benth. for production of picroside II. Ann Phytomed 2014, 3(2), 70-7.

Picrorhiza kurrooa Royle ex Benth. (Kutki), is an important medicinal herb, endemic to alpine Himalaya, serves as an alternative source of medicine. This paper reports results of its quality control by picroside II analysis, rapid isolation protocol for picroside by flash chromatography and potential of its in vitro cultures for production of secondary metabolites. High performance thin layer chromatographic (HPTLC) method was developed for estimation of picroside II in Picrorhiza kurroa samples collected/purchased from different places of India. The separation was achieved by using chloroform: methanol: formic acid (8:2:0.1, v/v/v) as solvent system on precoated silica gel 60 F₂₅₄ TLC plates. The densitometric quantification of picroside II was carried out at wavelength 265 nm, giving well resolved peak of picroside II at R_f 0.38± 0.2. An ultrafast flash chromatography method was developed for isolation of picroside-II from extract of Picrorrhiza kurroa. Chromatogram and PDA-spectra of isolated picroside R_T (10.278), was matched with spectra and chromatogram of standard picroside-II. Since the isolated picroside (purity <62> 80%) can be used as a bulk drug or as a potential marker for quality control analysis. The callus cultures and regenerated cultures with embryogenic calli were developed and maintained up to 220 days. In vitro, tissue cultured samples were tested for their potential for production of picroside, which was quantified by validated HPLC method.

6 illus, 7 tables, 21 ref

016562   Reddy R N;Kar M;Rath S P (Botany Dep, Utkal Univ, Bhubaneswar-751 004, Email: rnreddy1110@gmail.com) : Floristic diversity of Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary in Odisha. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 545-9.

Extensive survey of the angiosperm floristic diversity was carried out in Similipal Wildlife Sanctuary, Odisha. A total of 25 Sample quadrats each measuring 20 m x 20 m (1.0 ha) were laid randomly at different geographic locations of the sanctuary and trees below 10 cm girth were enumerated. The established plants and shrubs were enumerated in 5m x 5m plots drawn within the sample quadrat of 20mx20m. Herbs and ground flora were enumerated in 1m x 1m plot drawn within the sample quadrat of 20mx20m. The enumeration, carried out in the sample quadrats resulted in a total of 241 species, 141 genera belonging to 68 families. Of these enumerated plant species, 91 were tree forms; 44 shrubs, 78 herbs, 28 climbers and remaining were miscellaneous category. Shorea robusta Gaerten.f. form the denser species among the trees in the sanctuary with a total of 819 trees/ 25 sample quadrats (D=32.76/ quadrat) while Croton roxburghii Balak. with 100 individuals,/ 25 sample quadrat (D= 4/ quadrat) and Dioscorea glabra Roxb., Xanthium strumarium L. with 19, 93 individuals, were dominant among climbers and herbs respectively. Symphorema polyandrum Wight. with 37 individuals is dominant among shrubs. The study also recorded a very good Shannon -Wiener and Simpson diversity index of 2.9973, 90.838 for trees, 2.8738, 27.9428 for climbers and 3.3061, 77.9419 for herbs, 3.1584, 43.9465 for shrubs. The vegetation is predominant with trees.

5 tables, 9 ref

016561   Rao G V S;Polisetty R (Plant Physiology Dep, College of Agriculture, Padannakkad-67131, Email: sudarsangv@gmail.com ) : Role of ethylene inhibitors and ethrel in development of micro shoots and in vitro evolution of methane and ethylene in Cajanus cajan L.. Ann Pl Physiol 2014, 28(1), 5-9.

Shoot buds were induced when cotyledonary node explains were supplemented with 6-benzyladenine (BA 2 mg. dm^{-3). The BA @ 0.1 mg. dm-3 and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) @ 0.01 mg. dm-3 were supplemented to the B₅ (Gamborg) medium to develop shoot buds into micro shoots. To increase the efficiency of shoot bud development into micro shoots, five concentrations of ethylene inhibitors namely silver nitrate (AgNO₃), cobalt chloride (CoCl₂) and salicylic acid (SA) and three concentrations of ethrel were supplemented in B₅ shoot bud development medium. All the three ethylene inhibitors helped in achieving increased micro shoots development. Micro shoots regenerated in various ethylene inhibitor treatments were normal and vigorous in comparison with control. Maximum number of micro shoots explant were produced at 10 μM AgNO₃ (19.7 micro shoots explant), 10 μM CoCl₂ (25.3 micro shoots explant) and 20 μM salicylic acid (17.7 micro shoots explant). The per cent increase in micro shoots explant was 156, 229 and 169 respectively over control. Supplementation of the ethylene inhibitors resulted in increased methane and decreased ethylene levels in comparison with control. Supplementation of ethrel to the control resulted in production of only callus mass but not a single micro shoot was developed whereas ethylene production was significantly more than control and no methane evolution was observed. Excess ethylene adversely affected micro shoot development. The mode of response of ethylene inhibitor treatments enhanced efficiency of micro shoot development due to reduced ethylene evolution and increased methane evolution.}

1 table, 18 ref

016560   Rana D;Masoodi H U R (NO, Himalayan Forest Research Institute, Pantheghati, Shimla-171 009, Email: dipikahfri@gmail.com) : Ethnobotanical survey for wild plants in fringe villages around Shimla water catchment sanctuary, Himachal Pradesh,India. J appl nat Sci 2014, 6(2), 720-4.

In this study an ethno-botanical survey was carried out in the fringe villages located at the periphery of Shimla Water Catchment Sanctuary. As the sanctuary area is not completely fenced the villagers have an access inside the sanctuary. An attempt was made to prepare a document of important flora and information from local community about their ethnic uses. The indigenous knowledge of local traditional uses was collected by personal interviews during field trips. Plants with their correct nomenclature were arranged by family name, vernacular name, part use, ethno-botanical remedies and uses. Plants having uses in medicine, ornamental, fodder and many other were studied. The study was entirely focused on revealing the medicinal potential possessed by the plants growing wild in this area and their sustainability for the betterment of mankind.

016559   Ramakrishna H;Chaya P (Palaeobotany - Palynology Research lab. Botany Dep, Univ of College of Science, Osmania Univ, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: hariramakrishna@yahoo.co.uk) : Pollen diversity of various trade honeys of greater Hyderabad of Telangana state, India. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 535-40.

Honey, the natural sweet, is a rich source of mixed food and is also having lot of medicinal value. The nectar and pollen are the raw materials of honey. The pollen grains of honeys are useful to recognize the source of honey. Various trade honeys viz., Gold Drop-Coorg honey, Feasters honey. Food world-pure honey, Wipro-Sanjeevani honey, Dabur honey, Baidyanath honey and Lion-Kashmir honeys were collected from various commercial stores and medical shops of Greater Hyderabad of Telangana, India during 2012-2013. Diversity of Angiosperm pollen was recorded from these honeys. A total of thirty nine pollen types were recorded in this study. Eucalyptus globulus, Brassica nigra, Sapindus emarginatus, Psidium guajava, Borassus flabellifer, Prosopis juliflora, and Syzygium cumini, were the significant pollen types recorded. All these honey samples are qualitatively rich but quantitatively i.e. the density of pollen is poor. Hence all these honey samples are having diversity of pollen taxa.

8 illus, 11 ref

016558   Rajesh Kumar;Mondal P;Chakravarty M K (NO, , Divyayan K.V.K., Morabadi, Ranchi-834 008) : Evaluation of IPM modules against Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). Ann Pl Prot Sci 2014, 22(2), 344-8.

Results revealed that mean larval population of Helicoverpa armigera was considerably low after insecticidal sprays in different modules and lowest population of the insect (2.59/MRL) was recorded in Module 6 (spinosad @ 0.5 ml/l of water as 1st spray and indoxacarb @1 ml/l as 2nd spray) followed by Module 4 (indoxacarb @1.0 ml/l as 1st spray and triozophos @1.5 ml/l as 2nd spray) and Module 1 (spinosad @ 0.5 ml/l as 1st spray and triazophos @1.5 ml/l as 2nd spray) in 2009-2010. Similar results were also observed during 2010-2011. However, based on benefit-cost ratio, module 1 (1.57 & 1.70) proved more viable than module 6 (1.39 & 1.56) and module 4 (1.35 & 1.55) due to lower cultivation cost in both the seasons.

3 tables, 11 ref

016557   Rajesh Kumar;Khare A K;Singh H;Mishra U S (Botany Dep, Taxonomy and Herbarium Div, Bareilly College Bareilly, Uttar Pradesh-243 001, Email: rajesh_bly06@sifymail.com) : Addition to the flora of upper gangetic plain: status of Solanum villosum Mill. a new record from bareilly, Uttar Pradesh. Indian For 2013, 139(11), 1052-3.

3 illus, 12 ref

016556   Rajaram N;Aron Y S K (Botany Dep, P.S.G. College of Arts and Science, Coimbatore-641 014) : Utility of different seeds in the herbal remediation by the rural people of Yercaud and Edappadi, salem (Dt.) Tamil Nadu. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 447-9.

In the present paper ethno-medicinal uses of thirty different seeds employed by the rural people of Yercaud and Edappadi area of Salem District, Tamil Nadu have been enumerated.

7 ref

016555   Prabhakar R;Ramakrishna H;Kailas J G (Palaeobotany and Palynology Research Lab., Botany Dep, College of Science Univ, Osmani Univ, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: hrkpaleobot@gmail.com) : Porate pollen diversity in some ethno-medicinal plants of Adilabad district, Telangana state. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 417-21.

Deals with the study of diversity of porate pollen viz., monoporate, diporate, triporate, tetraporate and polyporate types recorded from the Adilabad and Utnoor revenue divisions of Adilabad district, Telangana, India. These pollen are Acacia nilotica, Aerva lanata, Alangium salvifolium, Argyreia pilosa, Boerhaavia diffusa, Eliphantopus scaber, Gossypium herbaceum, Gymnema sylvestre, Helicteres isora, Holanhena antidysenterica, Imperata cylindrica, Ipomaea hederifolia, Mimosa pudica, Mirabilis jalapa. Sida acuta and Wedilia chinensis. These Ethno-medicinal plants have been used by the inhabitant tribes to cure various ailments.

2 tables, 10 ref

016554   Paul S;Devi N (Botany Dep, Gauhati Univ, Guwahati-781 014, Email: santalaceae09@gmail.com) : Morphological variations of cypselas in six taxa of the Genus sonchus Linn. of tribe-lactuceae (Asteraceae) from Assam (India). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 363-7.

Morphological variations of cypselas in five species of the genus Sonchus Linn., under the tribe Lactuceae have been studied with the help of stereo-dissecting and Nikon light microscopes. Morphologically, the form and structure of cypselas, carpopodia and pappus are diacritical for characterization of taxa. An artificial key to the studied taxa has been prepared on the basis of cypsela morphological characters for the identification of taxa.

5 tables, 19 ref

016553   Nilakshee Devi (Botany Dep, Gauhati Univ, Gauhati, Assam, Email: devinilakshee@gmail.com) : Conservation of bio-diversity of subhankhata under Baska district, Manas Biosphere Reserve, Assam through community conservation programme. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 387-90.

Present paper describes floristic diversity of Subhankhata Reserve Forest, categorising under deciduous forests, ground vegetation, orchid flora, epiphytic ferns, riparian vegetation and medicinal plants. Conservational measures through community programmes as Bee keeping and 'SUM' cultivation have been suggested.

16 ref

016552   Nawar K;Sharma O P (Botany P.G. Dep, Govt. College, Bundi, Rajasthan, Email: kapil.nawar@yahoo.com) : Plant remedies used in treatment of snake bites by tribals of Ramgarh Vishdhari Wild Life Sanctuary Bundi district (Rajasthan). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 411-12.

Study was conducted in the tribal dominating areas of Ramgarh Vishdhari Wild Life Sanctuary of Bundi (Rajasthan) during January 2011 to June 2012. Field survey was conducted to gather information about 'wild life-tribal relationship'. Old and experienced local people were found very suitable for this. In the present study 13 plant species were recorded as herbal antidote medicines used in treatment of snake bites by tribal people of study area.

17 ref

016551   Nangare A;Mendhulkar V D (Botany Dep, Institute of Science, Mumbai-32, Email: nangare.aruna@gmail.com) : In-vitro antimicrobial activity in Swertia species collected from South West part of Maharashtra. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 287-9.

In this paper authors assessed Swertia plant extracts against four bacterial species i.e., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonial, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Disc diffusion technique was used to determine in-vitro antibacterial activity. Swertia densifolia showed maximum activity against E. coli (33 ± 0.047 mm), Swertia lawii showed larger zone of inhibition for both E. coli (13 ± 0.047 mm) and S. aureus (13 ± 0.047 mm), where as P. aeruginosa (18 ± 0.081 mm) revealed high sensitivity to S. minor plant extract. Swertia densifolia was found to be more effective compared to other two studied species.

2 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

016550   Naithani H B;Deka A K;Banerjee G (Botany Div, Forest Research Institute, Dheradun) : Gregarious flowering of bamboos in Arunachal Pradesh. Indian For 2013, 139(8), 746-9.

^ssc1 illus, 34 ref

016549   Naithani H B (Botany Div, Forest Research Institute, Dehradun) : Occurrence and nomenclature of a bamboo, Schizostachyum seshagirianum in India. Indian For 2013, 139(11), 1048-9.

016548   Muthulakshmi M;Devrajan K;Jonathan E I (Nematology Dep, Centre for Plant Protection Studies, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: lakshminem@gmail.com) : Interaction of Meloidogyne incognita and Macrophomina phaseolina on mulberry and their effect on some physiological functions. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 443-5.

Experiments were conducted twice under glasshouse conditions to study the interactional effect of foot knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita and root rot fungus Macrophomina phaseolina on mulberry (Var. S 36). The results of the experiment showed that simultaneous inoculation of nematode and fungus caused severe root rot incidence and significant reduction in plant growth compared to the inoculation of nematode or fungus alone or inoculation of fungus prior to nematode. The same result was observed with inoculation of nematode followed with the fungus 15 days later. The population built up of M. incognita was adversely affected when M phaseolina was inoculated prior to nematode. The mulberry plant growth parameters viz., number of branches and leaves, leaf weight, leaf area, shoot length and weight, root length and weight, leaf chlorophyll, leaf moisture, protein and nitrogen content decreased in all the combination of nematode and fungus compared to uninoculated control and the reduction was more pronounced in the simultaneous inoculation of both nematode and the fungus.

2 tables, 7 ref

016547   Kurlekar S L (NO, R.T.M. Nagpur Univ, Nagpur, Maharashtra, Email: kurlekarsachinwardha@rediffmail.com) : Effect of variable temperature on the growth of thermophilic fungi. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 503-4.

In this investigation, thermophilic fungi from forest leaf litter of Wardha district were tested for their temperature relationship. These fungi were grown at 30-32°C (room temperature), 45°C and 55°C on YpSs Emerson Agar. Radial mycelial growth of all fungi was measured in millimeter. Observations were noted daily up to 7 days.

2 tables, 4 ref

016546   Kurlekar S L (Biology Laboratory, Bajaj Science Centre, Wardha-442 001, Email: kurlekarsachinwardha@rediffmail.com ) : Effect of different colours of light on the growth of Trigonella foenum-graecum and comparison of absorbance spectra at the different wavelengths. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 309-10.

In this investigation, effect of different colours of light on the growth of Trigonella foenum-graecum was studied. Seeds were grown under blue, red yellow and green light. One earthernpot was kept as control. Observations were noted for different parameters. Comparative study was also done for the absorbance at the wavelength from 350 to 750 nm for all five types of plants.

2 tables, 5 ref

016545   Khan M R;Rizvi H;Ansari R A;Safiuddin (Plant Protection Dep, Aligarh Muslim Univ, 202 002, Email: mrkhan777in@yahoo.co.in) : Biochemical reaction of Tagetes spp. cultivars to Rhizoctonia solani. Ann Pl Prot Sci 2014, 22(2), 368-73.

Host reaction of three marigold cultivars of Tagetes spp. viz., Tagetes erecta cv. Yellow Dwarf, T. erecta cv. Hazara and T. patula cv. Jafri was evaluated against two inocula of Rhizoctonia solani (2 & 4g colonized sorghum seeds/kg soil). The cv. Jafri and Yellow Dwarf were found susceptible to the fungus and showed stunted growth, leaf yellowing and web like blighting, especially at 4 g inoculum level. Roots of infected plants showed rotting in the form of browning of lateral roots and also the main root. The cv. Jafri was found highly susceptible with a root-rot severity of 1.2 and 2.8 (0-5 scale) and exhibited 6-27% and 8-32% decrease in the plant growth variables at 2 and 4g inocula of the fungus, respectively. The cv. Hazara expressed resistance to the fungus with 0.7 root-rot index without a significant decrease in the plant growth and chlorophyll pigments at 4 g inoculum level. The differential reaction of Tagetes cultivars was found correlated with salicylic acid (SA) and phenol contents (PC) of leaves. The two important biochemicals were synthesized by Tagetes spp. in significantly greater concentrations in response of the infection by R. solani. Moreover, the concentration of SA and PC was greatest in cv. Hazara that expressed resistance to R. solani, and lowest in cv. Jafri which was found highly susceptible to the fungus. Chlorophyll contents of leaves also showed negative relationship with root-rot index.

3 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

016544   Kalita R (Botany Dep, THB College, Karchantola, Sonitpur, Assam, Email: rupa.kalita1@gmail.com) : Some medicinal plants used by Bodo tribes of Sonitpur district, Assam. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 451-3.

This paper is based on ethno-botanical information collected from the Bodo dominated tribal areas of Sonitpur district of Assam state of India. An attempt has been made to study 16 plant species, from 16 genera belonging to 15 families along with the method of preparation and mode of use.

9 ref

016543   Kalita R (Botany Dep, THB College, Karchantola, Sonitpur, Assam, Email: rupa.kalita1@gmail.com) : Ethno-medicinal uses of some traditional medicinal plants found in Assam, India. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 438-41.

Present paper focus on twenty medicinal plant species from twenty genera belonging to nineteen families, which are successfully used to prevent various human diseases.

9 ref

016542   Kale A N;Wagh R S;Deshmukh D V (Botany Dep, MPKV, Rahuri-413 722, Email: waghrs15@gmail.com) : Physiological evaluation of twenty amaranthus genotypes at optimum moisture. Ann Pl Physiol 2014, 28(1), 31-6.

Twenty amaranthus genotypes were evaluated to study the physiological basis of yield differences. The photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance were highest at 50% flowering and then decreased after 15 days. The highest yield was recorded by the genotypes, IC-094661, IC-095371, Phule Kartiki and IC-095389. Amongst these, IC-094661 and Phule Kartiki, maintained higher rate of photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance and water use efficiencies, while IC-095371 well for stomata conductance and chlorophyll content. The most important yield attributes were number of leaves, leaf area, inflorescence size, grain number inflorescence and seed weight. These genotypes exhibited appropriate behavior for dry matter production and it's distribution in component parts of plant, rate of photosynthesis, transpiration, stomatal conductance, canopy temperatures, chlorophyll content and water use efficiency. In high yielding genotypes the photosynthetic rate, number of inflorescence per plant, seeds per pod, yield per plant, harvest index were observed to be the major yield contributing characters.

3 tables, 16 ref

016541   Kailas J G;Ramakrishna H;Prabhakar R (Palaeobotany and Palynology Research Lab., Botany Dep, Univ College of Science, Osmania Univ, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: hrkpalaeobot@gmail.com) : Pollen diversity of polyad pollen (Mimosaceae) of Karimnagar district, Telangana state, India. Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 505-9.

Investigation deals with the study of polyad pollen of Acacia chundra (Roxb.) Willd. A. leucophloea (Roxb.) Willd. A. nilotica (L.) Del., Albizia amara (Roxb.) B. Boivin. A. lebbeck (L.) Benth., A. saman F. Muell., Dicrostachys cinerea Wight et Arn., Mimosa farnesiana (L.) Willd. Parkia biglandulosa Wight & Am. And Pithecolobium duke (Roxb.) Benth. recorded from Karimnagar district of Telangana. These pollen taxa belong to Mimosaceae family and have diversity in pollen morphological characters viz., number of grains in polyad, symmetry, shape, polarity, apertural pattern and ornamentation. These variations may help further confirmation of identification of these taxa.

1 table, 18 ref

016540   Jawahar G;Madhavi D;Amrutha R N;Jogeswar G; Sunitha M S I;Rao S;Kavi Kishor P B (Genetics Dep, Osmana Univ, Hyderabad-500 007, Email: pbkavi@yahoo.com) : Current approaches for enhancing secondary plant production in vitro. Ann Phytomed 2014, 3(2), 26-34.

Higher plants are an important source of secondary metabolites such as flavours, fragrances, dyes, pigments, food additives, terpenoids, alkaloids, and glycosides with medicinal importance. Several of these secondary plant products also form the basis for drug development. Today, several countries use plant derived chemicals as drugs with modifications. Unfortunately, these secondary plant products are synthesized in very low quantities. Therefore, cultured plant cells, tissues and organs such as hairy roots become an alternative source for enhancing the bioactive compounds. Elevated levels of secondary plant products have been reported from tissue cultures of various medicinal plants and bioreactors are vital for the commercial production. Also, in several instances, biochemistry of the biosynthetic pathway/s is not known, in case if it is known, the corresponding genes have not yet been isolated. In such a scenario, there is an urgent need to integrate large scale sequencing data, metabolomics, transcriptomics and proteomics. But, perhaps functional genomics holds the key to link the gene with the metabolite and subsequently genetic engineering of plant secondary metabolism for enhancing the secondary metabolites.

1 illus, 3 tables, 76 ref

016539   Gope S K;Mishra G (Botany Dep, Jamshedpur Women's College, Jamshedpur-831 001, Email: shilagope75@gmail.com) : Unique and underutilized trees at the verge of getting lost in Bonkuchia forest of Kamalpur, Patamda, (East singhbhum). Adv Pl Sci 2014, 27(2), 391-4.

In this paper, effort has been made to recognize those underutilized and unique plants present in Bankuchia forest so that they can be potentially used as genetic resources and some unique features they have. A small list of twenty such plants (for example Careya arborea, Schrebera swietenioides, Garuga pinnata, Briddia retusa, etc.) has been recorded to make the people aware of their neighborhood resources and their conservation with utilization.

15 ref