001277   Kalita R (Botany Dep, THB college, Jamugurihat, Sonitpur, Assam) : Medico-ethno botany of mising tribes of Sonitpur district, Assam. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 399-400.

The north eastern region of India represents an interesting diversity of communities, species and ecosystem in its bioshpere. The Sonitpur district of Assam is also densely inhabited by tribal people like Bodo, Mising, Karbi etc. and they believe in natural methods of treating different diseases through various species of herbs. About 90 per cent mising people live in remote areas where the modern health care facilities are not available. They have to depend on the natural medicines. They have very good knowledge about the medicinal herbs and their uses. An attempt has been made to study 16 plant species, from 16 genera belonging to 14 families along with the method of preparation and mode of use.

1 table, 5 ref

001276   Kalita R (Botany Dep, THB College, Jamurihat, Sonitpur, Assam) : Karyotype studies in some medicinally important Datura species of North-East India. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 353-6.

Karyomorphology of two important wild Datura species of North-East India was Studied. The two species markedly differed with respect to chromosome length, arm ratio and centromeric position although their chromosome number was same (2n = 24). Highest number (8) of C type (length<60>10.9 μ) chromosome was found in Datura innoxia, while only one chromosome of E type (length 13.2 μ) was observed in Datura stramonium. In the both species number of shorter chromosomes were observed to be relatively larger than the longer ones. Chromosomes were mostly found to be metacentric and sub-metacentric in nature. Only one sub-telocentric chromosome was observed in D. innoxia.

2 tables, 4 ref

001275   Kale M;Ghadage D (Botany Dep, Jaysingpur College, Jaysingpur-416 101) : Estimation of titrable acid number (TAN) in the dimorphic leaves of some pteridophytes of south western ghats. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 543-5.

A study was undertaken to find out the acidity status in plants and its influence on the vegetative and reproductive stages in the concerned species growing in different habitats. The fresh leaves were collected from Castle-rock, Anmode, Sawantwadi and Malvan during their vegetative and reproductive stages. The result showed that in majority of the species vegetative fronds are marked by more TAN than the reproductive one.

1 table, 19 ref

001274   Kadu V A;Pingle S D (NO, Jijamata College and Science and Arts, Dnyaneshwarnagar, Bhende (BK), Tal-Newasa, Distt. Ahmednagar-414 605) : *Pediastrum and Scenedesmus from jayakwadi wetland. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 551-2.

Pediastrum and Scenedesmus are two common non-motile colonial Chlorococcalean algae, abundant in the Jayakwadi dam. They occur in free-floating or attached on the surface of other aquatic plants. Pediastrum in 4 - 64 celled algae. The genus Secenedesmus is 2- to 8-celled plate shaped colony. During the investigation 15 taxa if Scenedesmus and 9 taxa Pediastrum of have been identified.

1 illus, 8 ref

001273   Jyothi Chaitanya P;Chandrashekar R;Lakshmi Bhavani N (Plant Tissue Culture and Plant Molecular Genetics Lab., Botany Dep, Univ College of Science, Saifabad, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: jyothichaitanya1983@gmail.com) : Antimicrobial activity of leaf and bark extracts of Pterocarpus santalinus L.. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 651-6.

The study is carried out to screen and evaluate the antimicrobial activity of bark and leaf extracts of Pterocarpus santalinus L. Methanol, ethanol, acetone and water extracts were tested against selected gram negative bacteria (E. coli, Pseudomonas, Salmonella typhi, Klebsiella pneumonia), gram positive bacteria (Streptococcus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus) and certain fungal species such as Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, Rhizppus and Mucor to find out the antimicrobial activity for phytochemical constituents of bark and leaf of Pterocarpus santalinus L. Among the extracts tested methanol extracts of bark were found to be more active towards the organisms tested than the leaf extracts. The antimicrobial effect was observed in the order of bark ethanol, leaf methanol, leaf ethanol, bark acetone and leaf acetone, leaf water and bark water. The analysis revealed maximum activity of bark, extracts against the Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, Salmonella typhi, Streptococcus, Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis. The leaf extracts showed antibacterial activity in the order of Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Klebsiella pneumonia, E. coli, Streptococcus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Klebsiella pneumonia is found to be inhibited by leaf extracts only. Bark and leaf extracts of methanol showed wide spectrum inhibition zone against the fungal species Aspergillus niger, Fusarium, Colletotrichum, Rhizopus. The various active constituents present in Pterocarpus santalinus L are attributed for antimicrobial activity.

4 tables, 25 ref

001272   Joshi A R;Patil V N;Deokule S S (Botany Dep, Pune Univ, Pune-411 007, Email: akshayjoshi28@hotmail.com) : Medicinal value of Eulophia (orchidaceae) and its distribution in Maharashtra state, India. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 417-20.

Eukphia R. Br. has been used medicinally in the indigenous - 76 - system of medicine. The genus comprises of species which are terrestrial glabrous herbs with fleshy tubers or rhizomes. It is being used in the treatment of tumours of scrofulous glands of neck, worms and rheumatism. These are widely distributed from Caribbean to Australia and from the neotropics throughout tropical and sub tropical parts of Aisa. Out of 28 species of Eukphia from India, seven species have been reported from Maharashtra state. Roasted tubers are advised to increase the sperm count, extract of tuber is advised to reduce liver swelling, seed powder is added in sweetmeats to increase the body strength, root juice is given for the treatment of snakebite, aphrodisiac, rheumatoid arthritis, etc. Looking all the medicinal properties of these species, there is need to conserve and apply to prepare the valuable medicines in the pharmaceutical industries. Efforts have been made to give the distribution pattern of the species for the researches and medicinal value of these species is given which occur in the Maharashtra state of India.

^iia 51 ref

001271   Jha S K;Singh U (Plant Science P.G. Dep, J.N.R.M., Port Blair, Email: yesbotany@gmail.com) : Studies on the some ethno-medicinal liliaceous plants from south Andaman district of Andaman and Nicobar islands. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 591-4.

The present paper deals with ethno-medicinal wealth of South Andaman district of Andaman and Nicobar Islands belonging to family Liliaceae. During the study 23 species belonging to 18 genera of Liliaceae were collected, identified and information related to their ethno-medicinal value was collected from the informants and details of bioactive compounds found in these plants species were collected from literature. It has been found that many liliaceous plants species are unexplored in terms of their ethno-medicinal potential and bioactive compounds.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

001270   Gupta S K;Kerketta M (NO, JVM, Shyamali Ranchi) : Medicinal and aromatic plants diversity of asteraceae in Ranchi district. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 645-6.

Members of Asteraceae in Jharkhand are used as medicinal and aromatic plants in this region by local tribal people from time immemorial. Out of 84 species reported 34 of them are being used by the local people in traditional health care system.

5 ref

001269   Gupta D;Rathore V (Dr. Tanveer Malawat College of Biosciences, Bikaner (MGS Univ, Bikaner), Rajasthan, Email: dipaligupta71@yahoo.com) : Microbial diversity in phyllosphere of some medicinal plants. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 375-6.

Phyllosphere of three medicinal plants viz., Calotropis procera, Azadirachta indica and Datura stramonium from Bikaner region was analyzed. Microflora was analyzed by leaf impression method and serial dilution method. A range of bacteria and fungi were isolated and identified by colony characters, staining and biochemical tests on the basis of Bergey's manual. Microbial diversity from Datura stramonium included Micrococcus leuteus, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus polymyxa and Fusarium oxysporum. While from phylloplane of Calotropis procera two bacterial species Bacilus subtilis and Escherichia coli) and two fungal species (Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus niger) were identified. Microflora of Azadirachta indica was found to have Bacillus subtilis, Corynebacterium xerosis, Corynebacterium bovis and Aspergillus niger. These observations will help us to understand the behavior and interactions of epiphytic microbes with plants as well as among themselves.

1 table, 10 ref

001268   Giri P;Ghosh P D;Mukherjee S K (Botany Dep, Dum Dum Motijheel College, Dum Dum, Kolkata-700 000, Email: giri_pranab@yahoo.in) : Effect of leaf extract and volatile oil of Ocimum on the growth of some selected phytopathogens - a novel approach for biocontrol of plant diseases. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 107-12.

Ocimum is used profusely in Ayurvedic medicine and as a constituent of different herbal preparations. Medicinal importance of these species is correlated with their antimicrobial properties. In our present investigation the effect of leaf extract and volatile oil from all those species was tested against two pathogenic microorganisms such as Pseudomonas solanacearum and Alternaria brassisicola. It was observed that maximum growth inhibition of P. solanacearum occurs in presence of volatile oil as well as leaf extract of Ocimum gratissimum. On the other hand maximum inhibition in the growth of Alternaria brassisicola was recorded in the medium supplemented with the volatile oil and leaf extract of Ocimum americanum. The major constituents of the volatile oil and their concentration were determined through GC analyses and the data obtained were tried to correlate with their antimicrobial efficacy. It was observed that among the six species five species have the common constituent as eugenol in their essential oil which may be responsible for their common growth inhibitory effect on P. solanacearum. The degree of inhibition is also correlated with the percentage of eugenol content in the essential oil. As the eugenol content is maximum in O. gratissimum (47.48%) oil, the degree of inhibition of growth against the organism was highest. In O. americanum however, camphor, cineole in addition to eugenol suppose to be responsible for maximum inhibition of mycelial growth of A. brassisicola. The growth inhibitory effect of O. kilimandscharicum in absence of eugenol may be due to the interaction of other compounds in its oil. The similar growth inhibitory effects of the various solvent extracts of leaf on the test organism again corroborate with the fact that eugenol is the common inhibitory substance occurs in the volatile oil in different species of Ocimum. Being heterogeneous in nature of the constituents, apart from eugenol, other inhibitory substances may be present in oil which may be in collaboration or an independent manner may perform - 75 - inhibitory action. Therefore, there is a need of thorough phytochemical study of various species of Ocimum regarding its constituents that are growth inhibitory in nature. So, apart from herbal medicinal use, there is a distinct possibility to explore Ocimum as a potential biocontrol agent against phytopathogens. In such case dried leaves may be used to amend the soil to retard the survival of soil borne phytopathogens.

1 illus, 3 tables, 5 ref

001267   Gilcy George K;Kuttan G (Amala Cancer Research Centre, , Amala Nagar P.O., Thrissur-680 555) : Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of Emilia sonchifolia (L.) DC. Amala Res Bull 2013, 33, 130-5.

Emilia sonchifolia, belonging to the family Asteraceae is a traditionally used medicinal plant seen in most tropical and subtropical regions worldwide and is well known for its pharmacological properties. In the present study, the anti-inflammatory effect of E. sonchifolia was investigated using lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced in vitro inflammatory model. Administration of E. sonchifolia significantly reduced the (LPS) induced elevated levels of nitric oxide (NO) and pro inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukin-l (IL-lβ), and IL-6 in mice. Alcoholic extract of E. sonchifolia was found to scavenge the hydroxyl radical generated by Fenton reaction, superoxide generated by photoreduction of riboflavin and inhibited lipid peroxidation significantly exhibiting potent anti-oxidant effect of E. sonchifolia.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

001266   Gehlot P (Botany Dep, Maharshi Dayanand Saraswati Univ, Ajmer-305 001) : Effect of nickel on germination, seedling growth and biochemical contents of Trigonella foenum-graecum L.. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 535-6.

The present investigation was undertaken to study the influence of heavy metal on seed germination the seedling growth and biochemical contents of Trigonella foenum-graecum L. The chemical used for treatment was nickel at different concentrations (5,15,25,50 mgl^{-1).. The various morphological parameters and biochemical contents were analyzed on fifth day after germination. Plants treated with various concentrations nickel exhibited reduced plant growth and biochemical contents expect 5 mgl-1 concentration, where increased plant growth was recorded.}

2 tables, 11 ref

001265   Geeta;Prabha K;Khatoon J (Botany Dep, Jamshedpur Women's College, Jamshedpur-832 110, Email: k.jamshe@gmail.com ) : Change in the pigment content in Crinum asiaticum due to electromagnetic radiation from cell tower antenna. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 523-6.

Electromagnetic radiations emitted from the cell tower antenna induce harmful effects on living organism. This piece of work involves harmful effects on plant, if any, by the cell tower radiation. The objective of this study was to examine how cell tower radiation affects plants biochemically. The amount of pigments -chlorophylla-a, chlorophyll-b and carotenoids in Crinum asiaticum of family Amaryllidaceae was studied in control plants and those present at variable distances from towers. It has been observed that cell tower radiation affect the chlorophyll content of the plant located near the cell tower. Plants located near the tower are more affected in compare to distant places. The area had been selected near new Gandak road, Sakchi, Eash singhbhum, Jharkhand as study site because there were enough availability of plants grown for a long time near towers, irrespective of specially selected plants.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

001264   Garg A (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, , 10 Chattham lines, Allahabad-211 002, Email: kad_arti396@yahoo.com ) : Typology of sacred groves and their discrimination from sacred sites. Curr Sci 2013, 104(5), 596-9.

Inadequate awareness on the typology of sacred groves is perceived to be the major cause for mis-interpretation of some unnoticed, naturally preserved, deep-seated and concealed sacred sites established within the thickets of the Himalayan mountains and forests as `sacred groves'. This results in an invalid typification and incorrigible documentation of the priceless virgin ecosystems generating surplus sacred groves and creating a chaotic and debatable situation which may hamper their development for sustainable benefits. A more rationalized definition encapsulating the typological parameters of sacred groves is given here and the major criteria of differentiating them from sacred sites are provided.

1 table, 39 ref

001263   Dey A;Lahiri A;Basak A;Adhikari J (NO, , ) : Characterization of gluconeogenic fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase in the senescent thalli of an alga Cladophora bengalensis Martens. Indian J Pl Physiol 2014, 19(1), 8-13.

Substantial fructose-1,6-bisphosphatase activity has been observed in senescent thalli of Cladophora bengalensis, a widespread green alga. The enzyme was partially purified to about 30-fold. The apparent molecular mass of the protein was 130 kDa. The enzyme activity increased linearly with respect to protein concentration to about 25-150 μg and with respect to time up to 90 min. Temperature optimum was found to be 30-40 °C. The apparent K_m for fructose-1,6-bisphosphate was 85 μM. The enzyme was functional in a narrow pH range of 7.5-8.5 giving maxima at pH 7.5-8.0. This cytosolic enzyme was significantly stimulated by Mg^{2+ and inhibited by Hg2+, Cu2+ and Zn2+. - 73 - The cytosolic FBPase, obtained from the senescent thalli of C. bengalensis was recognized as a gluconeogenic enzyme by means of its catabolic inactivation by externally administered glucose. Presence of gluconeogenic FBPase in the senescent thalli of this alga is presumably because of a survival strategy for providing glucose under a traumatic condition of the algae.}

12 ref

001262   Devender R;Ramakrishna H;Prabhakar R;Padal S B (Botany Dep, Palaeobotany and Palynology Research Lab., College of Science Univ, Os, Saifabad, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: hariramkrishna@yahoo.co.uk) : Pollen diversity of some medicinal plants from Araku valley, Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 457-62.

The present investigation deals with the study of pollen diversity of 22 (twenty two) medicinal plants of Araku valley of Paderu moist deciduous forest division in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh. These 22 plants belong to various families viz. Stemonaceae, Pontederiaceae, Verbinaceae, Diascoreaceae, Oxalidaceae, Oleaceae, Bignoniaceae, Tiliaceae, Caesalpiniaceae, Euphorbiaceae, Rhamnaceae, Rutaceae, Fabaceae, Araliaceae, Celastraceae, Clusiaceae, Rubiaceae, Asclepiadaqe'ae and Sterculariaceae (Willis 1982; Gambel 1935) have been used by the inhabitant tribes for medicinal purposes to cure various ailments. The pollen of these plants have diversity of morphological characters viz. symmetry, shape, polarity, apertural pattern and sculpture.

2 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

001261   Deshmukh B S;Sathe S D (Agasti Arts, Commerce and D.R. Science College, Akole-422 601, Email: babadesh2004@yahoo.co.in) : Conservation and utilization of wild edible succulent Caralluma adscendens var. fimbriata. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 411-14.

Many Indian tribes consume several locally growing medicinal plants as part of their diets. Genus Caralluma is one of them. Caralluma adscendens var. Fimbriata (Wall.) Grav. & Mayur. belonging to family Asclepiadaceae is succulent, perennial herb commonly called makad shing. It is an ancient Indian plant used for centuries for its ability to suppress appetite and enhance endurance. It is eaten in - 72 - numerous forms; cooked as a regular vegetable, preserved like chataeys and pickles. The plant is characterized by peregnane glycosides, flavone glycosides, megastigmane glycosides and sponins. Due to over exploitation and lack of organized cultivation, the wild population has declined fast. Therefore there is and urgent need to conserve this genus. Earlier reports show a very little work on multiplication by organogenesis. But no reports were available on ex-situ or in-situ conservation techniques of this important endemic medicinal plant. Hence, ex-situ conservation was attemped through seed and vegetative propagation for reintroducing and establishment of new populations in similar habitat. An extensive survey was carried out. Plant material was collected and tried for propagation and ex-situ conservation. Propagation through seed shows 90% germination when soaked in warm water for overnight. Effect of growth regulators and different strengths of Auxins and Cytokines were tried for induction of root in vegetative stem cutting. Low concentration of auxin were found effective in root initiation. Seedlings and cuttings of two months old were used for reintroduction in similar natural habitat. Survival percentage was found 70% in newly introduced site. As the Caralluma has food potential, it is tried for the preparation of preserved food products like pickles and chataeys.

1 table, 14 ref

001260   Datta B;Chakraborty P K (Botany Dep, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal-741 235) : Characterization of a Tn5-induced siderophore over-producing mutant of Rhizobium nodulating chickpea. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 39-47.

Rhizobium BICC 651, a chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) nodulating strain, was mutagenised with transposon Tn5. The resultant mutant colony bank was screened for mutants on chrome azurol sulfone (CAS) plates for over-production of siderophore and, thus, two mutants were isolated. These mutants had higher level of siderophore in the culture filtrate than their parent strain under iron-limiting condition and were repressed for siderophore production in presence of iron (50 μm FeCl₃), as such were not considered as siderophore regulatory mutants. One of these mutants designated as B00I was found to be impaired in the uptake of ^{59Fe-siderophore complex within the cell. A BamHI genomic DNA fragment adjacent to &e posterior end of Tn5 in the mutant was amplified by inverse PCR following self-ligation and was sequenced. Upon BLASTX search, part of the sequence of the fragment (265 bp) adjacent to Tn5 was found to have its highest homologs (90%) to that of siderophore interacting protein of Agrobacterium tumefaciens CCNWGSO2S6 suggesting that Tn5 interrupted the gene that codes for a protein required for uptake of ferri-siderophore complex wifiin the cell. Symbiotic efficiency of the mutant was examined and was found to produce about 30% higher number of nodules per plant as compared to its parent strain.}

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

001259   Das P;Saha A K;Kayang H (Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Botany Dep, Tripura University, Suryamaninagar-799 022, Email: panna11d@yahoo.com) : Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal morphology in Michelia champaca L. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 177-9.

The root of Michelia champaca L. was studied under green house condition for arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal morphology. Both Paris and Arum type of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal morphology were found in the plant species. The co-occurrence of both the types of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal morphology is reported to be first in this plant species.

1 illus, 15 ref

001258   Dangwal L R;Singh T;Singh A (Herbarium and Plant Systematic Lab, H.N.B. Garhwal central Univ, S.R.T. Campus, Badshahithaul, Tehri-Garhwal-249 199, Email: tajkhalsa@gmail.com) : Exploration of wild edible plants used by Gujjar and Bakerwal tribes of district Rajouri (J&K), India. J appl nat Sci 2014, 6(1), 164-9.

The analysis of wild plant exploration was carried out to document the wild edible plants of district Rajouri (J&K), India. The present investigation of wild edible plants were based on extensive and intensive field survey during 2009- 2011. A total of 58 wild edible plant species belonging to 50 genera and 39 families have been reported from the area. Rosaceae was the dominant family that represented 7 taxa, while Brassiceae, Fabaceae, Moraceae and Poaceae represented with 3 taxa each and other 33 families have - 71 - less representation. Tree make up was the highest proportion of the edible species 28 (41%) followed by 26 were herbs (38%) and 14 were shrubs (21%). Based on the requirements/edibility, majority of the plant species (26 species) are commonly used as fruits, 14 serve as vegetables, 1 species as flavoring agents (spices), roots, tubers of 3 species are eaten as raw and seeds/grains from 8 species for various substitute of food, whereas 2 species are used in making special drinks.

23 ref

001257   Dadhich L K;Rahotr N K;Chauhan P S (NO, M.I.M.T., Kota-324 009) : Present status and conservation strategies of some wild geophytes plant species of Jhalawar district Rajasthan. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 439-42.

The Survey was conducted under UGC minor Research Project in certain tribal dominated area of Jhalawar district. The district Jhalawar lies in the South-East corner of Rajasthan of the edge of the Malwa Plateau between 23°45'17" N latitudes and 75°27'35" E to 76°56'48" E longitudes. It covers an area about 6219 Sq. Km. The climate of Jhalawar district is on the whole fairy dry and healthy is one of the rainiest part of the state of Rajasdian. Several permanent and nomadic tribes like Meena, Kanjar, Banjara, Bheel, Sahariya are residing in the tribal belt Sahariya is most pristive and back work tribe of Rajasthan. They use wild plant in their traditional system of medicine food, shelter and for other domestic purposes. These tribal people and their traditional healers possess valuable information's about properties and medicinal uses of wild plants group of plants with different types of storage organs whose buds are burreid in the ground are more relevant to us as Geophyte. Such Storage organs mainly are tubers bulbs, Stem tubes corm and rhizome. Only wild plants with different types of under ground 'storage organs' are selected for study. The modified storage part (geophytic habit) requires more storage tissue to ensure survival of plant under unfavorable periods of its native habitat. Some bulbous rhizomatous and cormous plants common in use for their medicinal value are Acorus calamus. Allium sp. Asparagus spp. Chlorophytum spp. Curcuma spp. Dacas carota Gloriosa superb, Zingiber officinale. Asparagus racemosus. The Jhalawar ecoregion is habited by several tribal communities. They use these little known wild Geophytic plants in their traditional system of medicine and food. It is observed during the survey, wild Geophytic plant species are facing serous threat due to several factors the Data was collected by using questionnaire methods, group discussion and contact with traditional healers. There in an urgent need to create grate awareness about economic ecological and medicinal values of wild heritage wisely used. Explored along with their conservation measures. Paper suggests an account on some wild geophytic plant diversity, distribution Ethno medicinal usages, and their conservation strategies.

1 table, 5 ref

001256   Choudhary M P;Sarma M (Botany Dep, Nowgaon College, Nowgaon-781 014, Email: manas.tez@yahoo.com) : Macrofungal diversity in Sonitpur district of Assam. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 371-4.

The current study deals with the diversity of macrofungi in the different natural habitats of Sonitpur district of Assam. As a result of field and laboratory studies, 32 species were identified belonging to 14 - 70 - families of Auriculariaceae, Agaricaceae, Dacryomycetaceae, Fomitopsidaceae, Ganodermataceae, Nidulariaceae, Polyporaceae, Marasmiaceae, Xylariaceae, Phallaceae, Tricholomataceae, Lycoperdaceae, Schizophyllaceae and Pleurotaceae.

25 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

001255   Chauhan M S;Kamlesh Kumar;Quamar M F;Sharma A (NO, Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeobotany, Lucknow-226 007, Email: quamar_bot@yahoo.co.in) : Correlation of data on loss-on-ignition and palynology for Late Quaternary climate change in southwestern Madhya Pradesh, India. Curr Sci 2013, 104(3), 299-201.

2 illus, 21 ref

001254   Chandrashekar R;Jyothi Chaitanya P;Lakshmi Bhavani N;Rama Reddy Y;Prashanth N;Sravanthi B (Botany Dep, College of Science Univ, Saifabad, Osmania Univ, Hyderabad-500 004, Email: shekar0987@rediffmail.com) : Study of the antimicrobial activity of Bt and non-Bt cotton seed extracts. Adv Pl Sci 2013, 26(2), 391-6.

Antibacterial and antifungal activity of (Bt and non-Bt) seed extracts of cotton was investigated. The antibacterial activity and antifungal activity was tested against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacterial organisms and wilt and boll rot complex causing fungal organisms respectively. Among the two kinds of seed extracts of Bt and non-Bt seed extract exhibited broad spectrum of antibacterial and antifungal activity against the tested organisms. Both kinds of seed extracts showed maximum activity against the fungal organisms in the order of Fusarium, Colletotrichum, Rhizopus and Asparjillus niger respectively. Maximum activity against as the bacterial organisms was found in the order E. coli, Klebsiella and Salmonella typhi. Both seed extracts (Bt and non-Bt) exhibited concentration dependent activity against the microbial organisms studied.

4 tables, 20 ref

001253   Chakraborty N;Dutta A K;Pradhan P;Acharya K (Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Botany, Taraknath Siksha Prangan, University of Calcutta, Kolkata-700 019) : Tulostoma chudaei Pat An addition to macrofungal flora of India. J mycopathol Res 2013, 51(1), 185-7.

Tulostoma chudaei, a member of the family Agaricaceae is described based on collections made in India. Detailed macro- and microscopic features are presented in this paper.

^ssc1 illus, 17 ref

001252   Amandeep Singh;Dangwal L R;Tajinder Singh (Herbarium and Plant Systematic Lab, H.N.B. Garhwal Central Univ, S.R.T. Campus, Badshahithaul, Tehri - Garhwal-249 199, Email: amanguru83@gmail.com) : Some lesser known fiber yielding weeds used by Gujjar and Bekarwal tribes of district Rajouri, Jammu and Kashmir. J appl nat Sci 2014, 6(1), 127-30.

The present communication pertains to some lesser known fiber yielding weeds used by Gujjar and Bekarwal tribe of district Rajouri (J&K). The study was based on extensive and intensive field surveys - 69 - conducted in 6 blocks of district Rajouri i.e. Budhal, Rajouri, Thanamandi, Manjakote, Nowshera and Sunderbani. Three sites were selected in each block which was densely inhabited by Gujjar and Bekarwal tribe to document traditional knowledge on fiber yielding weeds. The botanical names of the reported weed species with family, local names and part used have been documented in the present work. During the study period a total of 17 fiber yielding weeds belonging to 2 monocot and 8 Dicot families were reported. Out of total 10 angiospermic families of fiber yielding weeds, the predominance was shown by family Malvaceae having 6 weed species followed by family Tiliaceae and Urticaceae each representing 2 fiber yielding weeds. The study would not only help in documenting the traditional knowledge, it would also help in removal and management of weed species and in promoting growth of major crops.

2 illus, 1 table, 8 ref

000188   Wahegaonkar N;Palsingankar P;Shinde S (Botany Research Center, Vasantrao Naik Mahavidyalaya, Aurangabad, Maharashtra) : Phosphate solubilisation and organic acid production by some species of Aspergillus. Bioinfolet 2014, 11(1B), 217-21.

Forty species of Aspergillus screened for phosphate solubilization showed their activity to various extents. A. sparsus and 4 members of the Niger group, namely, A. carbonarius, A. tubingensis, A. aculeatus and A. japonicus were found to be highly active. Production of organic acids being the key mechanism in solubilization of phosphates the species were also screened for production of organic acids. Every species showed production of one organic acid or the other. Malic acid was produced by all the isolates. Other common acids produced were acetic acid, fumaric acid and citric acid. GCMS results of the culture filtrates of the black Aspergilli (Niger group) confirmed the production of organic acids by the members of this group.

1 illus, 3 tables, 23 ref

000187   Tyagi K;Sharma S;Rashmi R;Kashyap A S; Srivastava A (AYUSH Dep, National Medicinal Plants Board, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India, 36, Janpath, Chandralok Building, New Delhi-110 001, Email: kr_325@yahoo.co.in) : Evaluating pharmacognostical properties of latjira (Achyranthes aspera) for medicinal value. Curr Hort 2013, 1(2), 48-54.

Achyranthes aspera Linn; a wild medicinal plant, pharmacognostically it is important and has 0.3-0.9m height. It has 16.62 cm^{2 leaf area and fruits are very minute and utriculate type. The stem has wavy margins and anatomically two meduallary vascular bundles. There are gylandular and non-glandular trichomes. Non-glandular trichomes are unicellular, bicellular and multicellular. Leaves and stomatal index on upper surface (11.82-1304) and lower (10.00 - 10.98) are found. Vein islet number and vein termination are 16-24 and 24-14 respectively. The Rf values were 0.24, 0.29, 0.37, 0.90 in sunlight, 0.20, 0.24, 0.29, 0.37 and 0.90 in UV light (254 mm). Fluorescence of powdery form has green colour in sunlight and UV light (264 mm) and orange in 365 mm UV light, veined in water.}

1 illus, 6 tables, 17 ref

000186   Tiwari A P;Shukla A N (Botanical Survey of India, Central Regional Centre, Allahabad-211 002) : Fuirena umbellata Rottb. (Cyperaceae): a new record for the flora of Chhattisgarh. Indian For 2013, 139(3), 267-8.

^ssc4 ref

000185   Tandon R;Bhardwaj I (Botany Dep, Delhi Univ, Delhi-110 007) : Reproductive strategies in orchidaceae. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 35-48.

Survival of a species in the wild essentially relies on its reproductive performance. Orchidaceae, with nearly 25,000 species is one of the most successful families of angiosperms, essentially by virtue of the floral contrivances that have evolved to maximize their reproductive efficiency. Among these, the shape of flower, rewards, fragrance and pollination have immensely contributed to their speciation and adaptive radiation. With enormously high incidence of one-to-one specialization in pollination (60-70% orchids), many - 59 - orchids have become endangered (<126>10%) in the wild due to habitat modification. Reproductive strategy in orchids is full of lure and deceit. Nearly one-third of the known orchids offer no rewards and yet outwit insects in a variety of ways to successfully effect in pollination. Deception for food or sex leading to successful pollination is the key strategy. In sexually deceptive orchids, the floral fragrance intercepts the pheromonal communication by luring the male insect pollinators to visit the flowers that mimic their female counterpart. The scent of each orchid may be specific for one type of insect pollinator. It is not yet completely understood that how this strategy engenders speciation, maintains the amazing co-adaptive traits and helps in the reduction of costs, which is usually incurred on realizing fitness in, otherwise, flowers with rewards. Reproductive isolation is mandatory to maintain the species boundaries. In orchids, the pollinator mediated pre-fertilization barriers are considered sufficient to result in speciation, as a great majority of wide-hybrids succumb to hybrid sterility manifested due to their divergent karyotypes. There is paucity of data on the genetic architecture of reproductive barriers in orchids, which perhaps requires the mapping of loci involved, onto the chromosomal locations. Owing to obligate reliance on community level symbiotic interactions (pollination and mycorrhizal association), survival and speciation in orchids essentially operates in the ecological context. Knowledge on the present status of these interactions is urgently required for consolidating the base-line data on the biology of Indian orchids. Recent advances in molecular tools can be suitably integrated in the much needed reproductive and demographic studies to have a meaningful rationale on conservation of orchids in the country. In this paper, we mainly present an ecological perspective of reproductive strategies crucial for pollination and seed set in orchids.

2 tables, 21 ref

000184   Singh V;Roy S;Singh D;Nandi A K (School of Life Sciences, Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi-110 067, Email: ashis_nandi@yahoo.com) : Arabidopsis flowering locus D influences systemic-acquired-resistance-induced expression and histone modifications of WRKY genes. J Biosci, Bangalore 2014, 39(1), 119-26.

A plant that is in part infected by a pathogen is more resistant throughout its whole body to subsequent infections - a phenomenon known as systemic acquired resistance (SAR). Mobile signals are synthesized at the site of infection and distributed throughout the plant through vascular tissues. Mechanism of SAR development subsequent to reaching the mobile signal in the distal tissue is largely unknown. Recently we showed that FLOWERING LOCUS D (FLD) gene of Arabidopsis thaliana is required in the distal tissue to activate SAR. FLD codes for a homologue of human-lysine-specific histone demethylase. Here we show that FLD function is required for priming (SAR induced elevated expression during challenge inoculation) of WRKY29 and WRKY6 genes. FLD also differentially influences basal and SAR-induced expression of WRKY38, WRKY65 and WRKY53 genes. In addition, we also show that FLD partly localizes in nucleus and influences histone modifications at the promoters of WRKY29 and WRKY6 genes. The results altogether indicate to the possibility of FLD's involvement in epigenetic regulation of SAR.

4 illus, 44 ref

000183   Ramudu J;Ramesh G;Khasim S M (Orchid Biology Laboratory, Botany and Microbiology Dep, Acharya Nagarjuna Univ, Nagarjunanagar, Guntur-522 510) : Molecular and morphological studies in Coelogyne nervosa A. rich, an endemic orchid from Southern India. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 53-8.

An analysis of genetic diversity in six populations of Coelogyne nervosa from Eastern and Western Ghats revealed significant variations in their morphological and molecular characters. Western Ghat populations supported thicker foliar cuticle and highly lignified exodermal and endodermal cells in roots than those in Eastern Ghat populations. RAPD and protein profiles also showed inter population diversity between the reference sites. The diversity seems to be related to the climatic conditions along the distribution range.

4 illus, 5 tables,

000182   Pradhan P;Dutta A K;Roy A;Acharya K (Botany Dep, College of Science and Agriculture Univ, Molecular and Applied Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Taraknath Siksha Prangan, Calcutta Univ, Kolkata-700 019, Email: krish_paper@yahoo.com) : Notes on Ramaria fumigata regarding its occurrence and plant association in - 58 - West Bengal, India. Envir Ecol 2013, 31(1A), 243-6.

Ramaria fumigata, a member of the family Gomphaceae was collected from different places of West Bengal, India. Literature survey revealed that its occurrence and association with Eucalyptus globulus and Acacia auriculiformis was not reported earlier from this region. This paper deals with the morphological and ecological characteristics of the collected specimen.

1 illus, 24 ref

000181   Misra S;Nayak P K;Panda S P (NO, Orchid Study Centre, C-89 HIG, Baramunda Housing Board Colony, Bhubaneswar-751 003) : Liparis downii Ridl., a rare orchid for India from Koraput district of Odisha. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 31-3.

Liparis downii Ridl. collected from Odisha is a rare finding for India and forms an addition to the orchid flora of the state. This species is allied to L. paradoxa (Lindl.) Rchb.f., but is of a shorter stature and has a broad obovate mucronate lip.

2 illus, 5 ref

000180   Li L;Zhang Y;Wang C;Li X;Liu Q (NO, College of Life Science, Hainan Normal Univ, Haikou-571 158, China, Email: lei-li@126.com) : Effects of leachates of Casuarina equisetifolia on photosynthesis and antioxidant enzymes of Vatica mangachapoi seedlings. Allelopathy J 2014, 33(2), 189-200.

To explore the possibility of developing mixed forest of Casuarina. equisetifolia L. and Vatica mangachapoi Blanco, we studied the effects of C. equisetifolia allelochemicals from the roots, rhizosphere soil and litter leachates on the photosynthesis, chlorophyll fluorescence parameters and the antioxidase activities of V. mangachapoi seedlings in laboratory trials. The leachates reduced the photosynthetic rate (Pmax), light compensation point (LCP), the maximum photochemical efficiency of PSII (Fv/Frn), the potential activity of PSII (Fv/Fo), apparent electron transfer efficiency (ETR) and the actual photochemical efficiency (Y) of V. mangachapoi seedlings. However, the light saturation point (LSP) and the initial fluorescence (Fo) were increased. The activity of superoxide dismutse (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GR) and the content of MDA increased but the activity of peroxidase (POD) was reduced by the leachates treatment and habitat changes.

8 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

000179   Kaushik P;Pal P (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Gurukul Kangri Vishwavidyalaya, Hardwar-249 404) : Lignin degrading efficacyof Rhizoctonia solani a study in vitro. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 79-82.

The lignin degrading capacity of Rhizoctonia solani, isolated from Vanda testacea Reichb.f. (Orchidaceae) was assessed in vitro. Qualitative test showed the positive result while quantitative estimation includes the estimation of xylanase activity, total phenols and total soluble proteins. Xylanase activity revealed that maximum peak was achieved on 14th day, the activity value being 10.21 ± 0.12 IDml^{-1. It decreased on increasing incubation period. Total phenols were recorded to be high on 8th day of incubation with 12.10 ± 0.02 μg ml-1. The amount of phenols tended to decrease on 10th day having 11.67 ± 0.03 μg ml-1. Extracellular protein was found to be maximum on 12th day of incubation having the value 5.02 ± 0.06 μg ml-1.}

1 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

000178   Gurudeva M R (Botany Dep, Visveswarapura College of Science, K. R. Road, Bangalore-560 004) : Ontogeny of microsporangium and development of male gametophyte in Habenaria diphylla Dalz.. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 93-9.

The anther in Habenaria diphylla Dalz. is dithecous and tetrasporangiate. Its wail development conforms to the monocotyledonous type. Each archesporial cell develops into a block of sporogenous cells before organizing into massulae. The anther wall is 4-layered. The endothecial cells develop ring-like tangential thickening on the inner walls. Tapetal cells are binucleate and of dual origin. The microspore tetrads are tetrahedral, decussate, linear and T-shaped. Pollen sheds at 2-celled stage.

41 illus, 33 ref

000177   Gogoi K (NO, , Daisa, Bordoloi Nagar, Talap, Tinsukia-786 156) : Tainia angustifola (Lindl.) Benth. & Hook. F. (orchidaceae) from Karbi anglong (Assam): a new record for India. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 19-20.

Tainia angustifolia (Lindl.) Benth.S Hook. f. has been described for the first time from Karbi Anglong (Assam) as a new record for India. Its brief description with photographs is provided in this communication.

5 illus, 4 ref

000176   Desai R J;Raole V M (Botany Dep, Faculty of Science, The Maharaja Sayajirao Univ of Baroda, Vadodara-390 002, Email: desairnk_3@yahoo.co.in) : Contribution to the sedge and grass flora of Gujarat. Indian For 2013, 139(3), 240-3.

Diversity of grasses and sedges forms the major component of the forest. Field studies of the south Gujarat forest during last 3 years authors have collected 6 grasses and 2 sedges which were found to be noteworthy specimens. At the same time two grasses were collected after 50-100 years.

1 illus, 37 ref

000175   Deori C;Roy D K;Vikas Kumar;Sinha B K (NO, Botanical Survey of India, Shillong-793 003) : Cryptostylis arachnites (blume) Hassk. (orchidaceae), a rare species of Northeast India. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 21-3.

The paper describes and illustrates Cryptostylis arachnites (Blume) Hassk.- a species of the lesser known genus, and reconfirms its occurrence in Meghalaya (North East India).

1 illus, 8 ref

000174   Deori C;Odyuo N (Botanical Survey of India, Eastern Regional Centre, Shillong-793 003) : Cleisostoma tenuifolium (L.) garay, a new record to Northeast India from Arunachal Pradesh. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 59-61.

Cleisostoma tenuifolium (L) Garay is being reported for the first time in Northeast India from Arunachal Pradesh.

1 illus, 7 ref

000173   Chowlu K;Angela N;Rao A N;Vij S P (NO, Centre for Orchid Gene Conservation of Eastern Himalayan Region KVK-S, Hengbung-795 129) : Two new additions to the orchid flora of Manipur, India. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 89-92.

Ione andersonii King and Pantl. and Panisea uniflora (Lindl.) Lindl. are reported as new additions to the orchid flora of Manipur. The paper briefly provides their illustrated descriptions.

2 illus, 4 ref

000172   Bhardwaj M;Chauhan N S;Kandari L S (NO, National Bureau of Plant Genetics Resources, Pusa Campus, New Delhi, Email: drmeenakshib@gmail.com) : Harnessing alpine Himalaya for In-situ conservation of critically endangered medicinal plant: Dactylorhiza hatagirea (D.Don) soo. Indian For 2013, 139(3), 264-6.

^ssc1 illus, 24 ref

000171   Bajracharya D M (Botany Dep, Amrit Campus, Tribhuvan Univ, Kathmandu-44 600) : Biogeography and distribution of genus Eria lindley (orchidaceae) in Himalayas. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 9-18.

The genus Eria is represented by 50 species in the Himalaya. Ten species are distributed in the North Western Himalaya; 27 in Nepal Himalaya; 24 in Eastern Himalaya (including Sikkim) ; 18 in Bhutan Himalaya; and 34 in North Eastern Himalaya. Thirteen species are local endemic, five Himalayan endemic, and 28 non-Himalayan in nature. Maximum number of species is distributed within an altitudinal range of 1000-1500 m. Some species exhibit discontinuous distribution in the Himalayan region.

8 illus, 3 tables

000170   Anuprabha;Pathak P (Orchid Laboratory, Botany Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014) : Green pod culture in Dendrobium chrysanthum Lindl.: a study in vitro. J Orchid Soc India 2012, 26(1-2), 105-9.

Dendrobium chrysanthum, an epiphytic orchid of North Eastern India finds extensive utility in traditional system of medicine for its antipyretic and immunomodulatory effects. Unregulated collection and habitat destruction pressures have detrimently affected the size and frequency of its natural populations. It is getting rare and needs to be conserved. With a view to enlarging its population base, the germination competence of immature seeds was presently tested using green pod culture technique. The seeds positively responded to germination on Mitra ef al, medium but the germination process leading to seedling development was markedly influenced in the additional presence of growth additives While, the protocorms multiplied rapidly in cultures treated with either of Peptone and Yeast extract, early development of healthy seedlings was achieved on KN and AC supplimented media.

12 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

000169   Anjani;Shukla A;Shukla A;Guru S K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, College of Agriculture, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: anjani_jnkvv@rediffmail.com) : Histological characterization of embryogenic and non-embryogenic calli of Jatropha curcas L.. Indian For 2013, 139(3), 244-7.

Two types - 55 - of callus proliferation namely, embryogenic (E) and non-embryogenic (NE) calli were obtained by culturing 2 to 3 days old leaf of Jatropha curcas L. (Pant Jatropha Selection-ll) in modified MS medium supplemented with 2 ppm 2,4-D, and 0.5 ppm BAP. Scanning electron micrographs indicated distinct morphology of cell shape. NE cell shape was long-like tubular and loosely arranged cells. Embryogenic callus comprised nodular or knobby, quite deep embedded and tightly packed cell mass. Histological observations of callus sections revealed that E callus occurred on the surface as well as in the deeper regions of the callus. The abundance of vessel tracts in the callus was consistent with high content of vessel elements, rounded and cytoplasmically dense cells with totipotency. This may imply that nutrients are easily transported via these vessel tracts for the nourishment of growing somatic embryos or leafy structure. The number of vessel elements appeared to be a crucial factor in determining the E and NE calli development.

3 illus, 11 ref

000168   Afreen H;Sharma A K;Shehzadi;Khan R;Bhartiya A;Sardana V N (Botany Dep, MM(PG) College, Modinagar, Ghaziabad-201 204) : Evaluation of antimicrobial properties of indian, spices and commonly found weeds for development of new antibiotics. Curr Hort 2013, 1(2), 35-6.

Sensitivity of two gram positive bacteria (Bacillus subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus) and one gram negative bacteria (Escherichia coli) was tested against crude extract of different plant parts, e.g. buds, seeds, bark and leaves of different spices, viz. clove (Syzygium aromaticum L.), fenugreek or methi (Trigonella foenum-graecum L.), coriander(Coriandrum sativum L.) and cinnamon (Cinnamonum aromaticum) and weeds, Argemone mexicana and Eclipta alba. The plant extracts produced inhibition zones ranging from 6 to 38 mm against test microorganisms. The ethanol extract of the test plants was more effective in producing inhibition zones against the microorganisms compared to water or methanol extract.

1 table, 8 ref

024473   Verma S C (Botany Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: verma1sc@yahoo.co.in) : Advocating critical revisiting of the chinese ladder brake fern-complex in India. Indian Fern J 2013, 30(1-2), 224-54.

The Linnaean. species Pteris vittata, commonly known variously as the Chinese brake, Chinese ladder brake or simply ladder brake fern of family Pteridaceae is indigenous to Asia, tropical Africa and Australia, and its type specimen was collected in China by Pehr Osbeck. In recent years it has gained world-wide attention for phytoremediation of soils and water bodies due its strong ability to - 77 - hyperaccumulate the metalloid arsenic. This article is intended to put forward a strong case for a fresh thorough inquiry into the biology and taxonomy of the Pteris vittata species-complex in India. The so far reported variation in the species-complex, both morphological and cytological, as well as the currently recognized subspecies within P. vittata are reviewed, and commented upon, so as to impress upon the need to undertake its in-depth study for evaluating its total biodiversity in India. Pteris vittata sensu lato is an interesting complex wherein lot many surprises are waiting to be discovered, if one gets into it wholeheartedly.

11 illus, 1 table, 106 ref

024472   Verma S C (Botany Dep, Panjab Univ, Chandigarh-160 014, Email: verma1sc@yahoo.co.in) : Note on spontaneous apogamy in gameyophyte cultures of Pteris vittata L.. Indian Fern J 2013, 30(1-2), 221-3.

It is intended to place on record an unusual observation of the spontaneous occurrence of apogamy in gametophyte cultures of Pteris vittata subsp. emodi with the aim that possibility of such aberrant reproductive behaviour ought to be kept in mind when scoring gametophytes of P. vittata, including subsp. emodi.

1 table, 6 ref

024471   Torres E I M;Ferrucci M S (NO, Instituto de Botanica del Nordeste, Sargento Cabral 2131, C.C. 209, C.P. 3400, Corrientes, Argentina, Email: mezatorresii@yahoo.com.ar) : Ophioglossaceae: an exomorphological approach with emphasis in south American species. Indian Fern J 2013, 30(1-2), 192-205.

An update about exomorphology of Ophioglossaceae family, with special reference to South American species is provided. The morphological characters that have been described in the literature by classical authors are discussed from the perspective of new observations, and its main morphological features are given. In this contribution it recognizes in South American the following genera: Botrychium Sw., Botrypus Micx., Sceptridium Lyon. Ophioderma Nakai (included Cheiroglossa C. Presl.), and Ophioghssum L. It proposed the term "angiostroma" to describe fertile portion of sporophore.

24 illus, 30 ref