012989   Sharma A;Bakshi M (Plant Physiology (Botany Div), Forest Research Institute, New Forest, Dehradun, Uttarakhand) : Genotypic variation in pod and seed characteristics among clones of Dalbergia sissoo in a clonal seed orchard. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 285-8.

Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. (Shisham) is considered a multipurpose tree species due to its various uses as timber, shelter, fuelwood and fodder. Due to commercial importance in timber Industry, tree improvement of species is essentially required for genetic upliftment of the species. Under World Bank (FREE) project of ICFRE, tree improvement activities were accentuated towards development of seed orchards. CSO at Lacchiwala, Dehra Dun is an effort towards this direction to produce genetic seeds. The genetic base of CSO was comprised of 31 selected clones from India and Nepal. At 14 years of age, pods were assessed for characteristics like pod length, width, number of seeds/pod, weight of 100 gm pods while for seed characters, length and width of seeds was assessed. Results show that there is a significant genetic variation among clones at 0.1% level with respect to all parameters studied. Clone No. 60 belonging to Chicchrauli (Haryana) performed best with respect to all pod and seeds parameters followed by Clone 10 (Pathri, Uttrakhand) hence these can be used for bulk production of nursery stock. The linear inter-character correlations were estimated using Karl Pearson's correlation matrix. Simple correlation matrix revealed that all fruit and seed characteristics had significant positive correlation except seed length and seed width which were negatively correlated (r = - 0.313).

2 illus, 3 tables, 12 ref

012988   Semwal P;Rautela P S;Chaukiyal S P (NO, Graphic Era Univ, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Nitrate reductase activity in the leaf blade of Grewia optiva drummond Ex. Burret (Bhimal). Ann For 2012, 20(2), 168-74.

Combination of different concentrations of KNO₃ substrate (0.025 M, 0.05 M, 0.10 M, 0.15 M, 0.20 M, and 0.25 M) with 0.10M and 0.20M molarities of buffers under different pH i.e. 7.0, 7.1,7.2, 7.3,7.4 and 7.5 solutions were tried to determine the optimum substrate and buffer solution for the maximum nitrate reductase activity in the leaves of Grewia optiva. On the basis of results obtained it was inferred that buffer solution of the strength 0.10 M (pH 7.5) and substrate solution 0.20M was observed suitable for the maximum nitrate reductase activity in the leaf blade of Grewia optiva.

1 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

012987   Sawant V S;Sarwade P P;Chatage V S;Rajkonda J N;Bhale U N (Botany Dep, Yeshwantrao Chavan College, Tuljapur) : Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal status in the roots of the weed, Cassia tora of Marathwada region. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2011, 4(2), 216-8.

Plants growing in tropical region of India are commonly associated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Cassia tora L. is roadside weed and valuable medicinal plant. In the present study AMF association was studied in C. tora in different parts of Marathwada of Maharashtra. Percentage of root length colonization was highest in Osmanabad (82.17%) and lowest in Parbhani (61.79%). In Beed rhizospheric soil showed 1038 spores which was maximum, while it was minimum in Parbhani 610. Relation (r =0.89) between soil moisture and root colonization was positive.

1 table, 18 ref

012986   Sarver J;Atri R K;Sharma A (Botany Dep, Govt. (P.G.) College (Boys), Udhampur, Jammu & Kashmir-182 101, Email: sanjeevkoul222@gmail.com) : Threatened medicinal plants of Jammu region- a part of Northwest Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir, India. J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 443-6.

Jammu region of J&K State is bestowed with great diversity of medicinally important plants which are used frequently by the inhabitants to cure various common ailments in their daily life. A perusal of literature reveals that no study had been conducted so far pertaining to the diversity, ethnobotany, concern and status of the threatened plants of Jarmnu region in particular and J&K State in general. Therefore an attempt has been made to record the interesting indigenous medicinal uses of less known threatened plants of Jammu region of J&K State. A total of 30 threatened plat species belonging to 26 families and 30 different genera were reported from the region. The families Asteraceae and Apiaceae represented by 3 species each dominated the floral composition and remaining all 24 families represented by single species and genera each. Different plant parts such as roots/rhizomes/corms, leaves, bark, fruits, seeds, flowers, stem and whole plants are used for the treatment of various ailments. The four reported life forms were Herbs, trees, shrubs and climbers. Herbs make up the highest proportion of threatened medicinal plants with 24 species followed by trees with 4 species while shrubs and climbers contributed 2 species each. All the described 30 species have been categorized as critically endangered (4 spp.); Endangered (13 spp.) and Vulnerable (13 spp.) as per the new international Union of conservation of Nature and natural resources (IUCN) criteria. Appropriate strategy and action plan for conservation and management of threatened plants has been suggested.

1 table, 12 ref

012985   Saberi M;Tarnian F;Davari A;Shahreki E; Shahreki M (NO, Faculty of Natural Resources, Zabol Univ, Iran) : Influence of chemical stimulators in decreasing of allelopathic effect of Eucalyptus camaldulensis on germination properties of Onobrychis sativa. Ann Biol Res 2013, 4(2), 1-7.

This test was conducted on laboratory condition to investigate the allelopathic effect of Eucalyptus camaldulensis on germination and early seedling growth of Onobrychis sativa. Pretreatment with gibberellic acid and salicylic acid also was used to decrease the adverse effect of allelopathic components. Three levels of gibberellic acid (125, 250 and 500 ppm) and salicylic acid (100, 200 and 300 mg/L) and five extract levels of Eucalyptus camaldulensis (0, 25, 50, 75 and 100%) was used in the test. This experiment was carried out as factorial experiment based on a randomized completely design with four replications. The results of ANOVA and compare mean test showed that Eucalyptus camaldulensis extract had inhibitive effect on germination and early seedling growth of Onobrychis sativa. Early seedling growth of Onobrychis sativa increased by pretreatment of seeds in chemical stimulators so that the highest effect was observed in gibberellic acid. Interaction effects of allelopathic and pretreatment with chemical stimulators were significance on germination percentage and speed, root, shoot and plant length and seed vigour index.

26 ref

012984   Rasingam L;Jeeva S (NO, Keystone Foundation, Groves Hill Road, P.B. No. 35, Kotagiri-643 217, Email: solomonjeeva@gmail.com) : Indigenous brooms used by the aboriginal inhabitants of Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, Western Ghats, India. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2013, 4(3), 312-6.

Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve (NBR) part of the Western Ghats was surveyed to list out the natural brooms made with plant species used by the indigenous communities. A total of 18 plant species were recorded as a source of brooms in the NBR from seven communities. Of which the family Arecaceae was dominant with 3 species. The most common wild plants that are used for broom making in NBR include: Phoenix loureiroi Kunth var. humilis S.C. Barrow, Sida acuta Burm.f., Parthenium hysterophorus L. and Dodonoea angustifolia L.f. Four species, viz. Cupressus lusitanica Mill., Brassica juncea (L.) Czernj., Cocos nucifera L. and Areca catechu L. are cultivated along the roadsides, farm fields and village surroundings. P. loureiroi var. humilis is commercially exploited in the entire biosphere reserve for broom making. The use of P. hysterophorus, noxious weed, as a broom, is interesting to note in the day to day life of indigenous communities.

1 table, 20 ref

012983   Ranjan V;Anant Kumar (Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Howrah-711 103) : Swertia teres (G. don) J. shah: a new record for Arunachal Pradesh, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 491-2.

The occurrence of Swertia teres (G. Don) J. Shah (Gentianaceae) has been recorded for the first time from Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, India. Detailed taxonomic description along with illustration is provided.

1 illus, 2 ref

012982   Rajni;Navneet (Botany and Microbiology Dep, Gurukul Kangri Univ, Haridwar-249 404, Email: rajni_gkuh@yahoo.com) : Physico-chemical analysis of ash of medicinally valued plants. Flora Fauna 2012, 18(2), 183-6.

Physio-chemical analysis of ash of Euphorbia hirta (whole plant), Albizzia lebbeck (bark), Cassia occidentalis (leaves), Clerodendrum serratum (root) and Cordia dichotoma (fruit) plants were carried out. Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) was used for quantitative estimation while chemical methods were applied for qualitative estimation of minerals in plants ash. Clerodendrum serratum and Cordia dichotoma showed maximum concentration of potassium while, Euphorbia hirta showed maximum concentration of Fe, Mn and Zn. Magnesium level was highest in Albizzia lebbeck and lowest in Cassia occidentalis. Calcium level was maximum in A. lebbeck and minimum in C. occidentalis.

3 tables, 15 ref

012981   Rajakumar T J S;Selvakumari R;Murugesan S; Chellaperumal N (Centre for Botanical Research, P.G. and Research Botany Dep, St. John's College, Tirunelveli-627 002) : Indigofera karaiyarensis, a new species of fabaceae from Tirunelveli district, Tamil Nadu, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 485-6.

A new species, Indigofera karaiyarensis is described and illustrated.

1 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

012980   Pusalkar P K (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, 192-Kaulagarh Road, Dehra Dun-248 195, Email: lecyth@yahoo.com) : Distributional novelties in Uttarakhand flora. Ann For 2012, 20(2), 244-9.

Galium asperifolium Wall. var. lasiocarpum W.C. Chen (Rubiaceae) is reported as a new record for Indian flora. Ceratocephala falcata (L.) Pers. (Ranunculaceae) and Lindelofia longiflora (Benth.) Baill var. levingii (C.B. Clarke) Brand (Boraginaceae) are new records for Uttarakhand flora and Kailashia robusta Pimenov & Kljuykov (Apiaceae), a point endemic is reported from two additional localities in Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.

26 ref

012979   Pradhan S;Lama P C (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Laboratory, Post Graduate Botany Dep, Darjeeling Government College, Darjeeling-734 101, Email: projlama@gmail.com) : Biochemical analysis during early seedling growth of Swertia chirata Buch. Ham. in Darjeeling hill of Eastern Himalayas. Envir Ecol 2012, 30(4), 1395-8.

Swertia chirata Buch. Ham, (Fam. Gentianaceae) is a high value medicinal plant from Eastern Himalayas. It is over exploited due to faulty collection methods, habitat disturbance and less information about its biology. Different metabolites viz., protein, free amino acids and chlorophyll-a and chlorophyll-contents decreased with the plant maturity. However, the soluble and insoluble carbohydrates, nucleic acids (both RNA and DNA) and lipid contents showed high in advancement of plant growth and development stages. Enzymes activities like cata-lase, peroxidase, α-amyiase were more recorded in seedling stage than sapling. The appreciable activity of acid/alkaline phosphatases supports the necessity of free inorganic phosphate metabolites for growth and development. However, the gradual decrease in enzyme activities like lAA-oxidase, protease, RNase recorded from seedling to sapling stage.

3 illus, 5 tables, 26 ref

012978   Pawar S M;Sonawane S R;Mohite S A (Zoology Dep, P.D.V.P. Mahavidyalaya, Tasgaon Dist. Sangli-416 312, Maharashtra) : Angiosperm diversity of Kanher and Mahadare reservoirs from Satara district (Maharashtra), India. Flora Fauna 2012, 18(2), 322-8.

Enrichment of nutrients and dissolved matter in water bodies affect diversity of aquatic plants and also physico-chemical properties of water. The paper reports angiospermic flora of two reservoirs from Satara District of Maharashtra state. The plant diversity is varied; unique which comprises typical Deccan plateau. The present paper shows that there was presence of total 40 families, 70 genera with 112 species. Dicotyledons dominated over monocotyledons.

1 table, 6 ref

012977   Pavan R;Manjunath K (Microbiology and Biotechnology Dep, Bangalore Univ, Bangalore-560 056, Email: pavanrgowda@rediffmail.com) : Effect of seasonal variations and meteorological factors of Aspergillus species in rabbit house. Indian J Aerobiol 2012, 25(1), 8-14.

Analysis was conducted to determine the mycoflora of rabbit house in relation to meteorological factors and seasonal distribution in Hessaraghatta village, Bangalore by using Anderson two stage viable sampler from January 2011 to December 2011. A total of 32 types of fungal species were isolated from indoor air of the rabbit house with total CPU's of 38710.06 CFU/m³. The sampling showed the prevalence of Aspergillus species with 1897.8 CFU/m³ A. carbonarius, A. flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. terms and A. versicolor are the different species of Aspergillus recorded. The variations in concentration levels of these Aspergillus species were recorded and found to be 708.13 CFU/m³ in summer, 793.13 CFU/m³ in winter and 396.54CFU/m³ in rainy season. Our result demonstrated the variations in distribution of Aspergillus species with directly correlating to seasonal variation and meteorological factors.

4 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

012976   Patel D K;Mehta R (Rural Technology Dep, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh) : Diversity of aquatic plants in some ponds of Ratanpur, distt.- Bilaspur, (Chhattisgarh) in Central India. Flora Fauna 2012, 18(2), 191-200.

17 species of aquatic plants were observed during the research period. The dominant species of aquatic plants in the ponds were Nelumbo nucifera, Trapa bispinosa and Pistia stratiotes. Environmental conditions (Temperature range, Eutrophication etc.) regulate and determine the life pattern and variable presence of the aquatic plants. High productive ponds showed luxuriant growth of aquatic plants whereas minor group of plant species led a short range under environmental changes The aim of the present research was to record a list of aquatic plants occupying in the selected twenty one ponds of research stations for their presence and dominance assessment under all the sampling ponds individually. Nelumbo nucifera was a major aquatic plant group in eight ponds. The highest species diversity was observed in Bhikhma pond. Variable aquatic plants species association was recorded in ponds and are discussed furthermore.

3 tables, 33 ref

012975   Parihaar R S;Bargali K;Bargali S S (Botany Dep, D.S.B. Campus Kumaun Univ, Nainital, Email: rajenderaparihaar@gmail.com) : Ecological atributes of some invasive plant species of Jhirna range in Corbett National Park, Ramnagar, Uttarakhand. J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 447-51.

Invasive species are those that occur outside their natural range, spread rapidly and cause harm to other species, communities or entire ecosystem and to human well-being. Invasive plant species alter native community composition depletes species diversity, affect ecosystem process and thus cause huge economic and ecological imbalance. These plants possess a set of remarkable traits that allow them to colonize huge areas upon invasion. In India invasive species are present for over a century and some of them are world's worst invasive species. The invasive species are aggressive invaders outside their natural range and have been recognized as the second largest threat to biological diversity and other natural resources after habitat destruction. Present work was carried out to find the intensity of invasion (dominance, density, abundance, frequency and importance value index) of some invasive species distributed in Jhirna range of Corbett National Park, Ramnagar Uttarakhand and to understand the impact of invasive plants on the structure and composition of other species. The information and data were collected with the help of random sampling by placing quadrats of 1x1 m for herbs and 5x5 m for shrubs or 10x10 m for tree. Density, abundance, frequency, basal area and their relative measures for each species have been calculated. A total of five invasive species viz. Parthenium hysterophorus, Cyperus rotundes, Eupatorium perfoliferum, Ageratum conzoides and Lantana camara were distributed in the study area. Of these, the maximum density was recorded for Lantana camara (2820 individual ha^-1) followed by Parthenium hysterophorus (270 individual ha^-1), and Eupatorium perfoliferum (240 individual ha^-1). The Lantana camara was the dominant shrub species with 100% frequency.

3 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

012974   Nipunage D S;Kulkarni D K (NO, K.M.C. College, Khopoli, Dist.- Raigad, Maharashtra) : Floristic diversity and status of natural regeneration from sacred groves, Ambegaon taluka of pune district, Maharashtra state, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 457-64.

Deals with floristic composition and status of natural regeneration of 34 sacred groves belonging to 20 villages from Ambegaon taluka of Pune district, Maharashtra State. Area of sacred groves varies from 0.01 ha to 6.07 ha and thick clumps of wild Bamboo are observed. Natural regeneration of tree species like Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeel, Terminalia chebula Retz. and climber of Clematis gourina Roxb. were recorded. 200 old trees of Tectona grandis L. in Sagdara sacred grove is a unique feature of monotypic sacred grove.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

012973   Nayak B K;Suresh Kumar R;Nanda A (Plant Biology & Biotechnology Dep, K.M. Centre for P.G. Studies, Lawspet, Pondicherry-605 008, Email: bijuknayak@yahoo.co.in) : Comparative aeromycospora study of a vegetable market with meteorological precipitation. Indian J Aerobiol 2012, 25(1), 20-7.

Fungi are the causal agents for different diseases in animals, plants and human beings. They are mostly responsible for deterioration of organic materials. It is not the occurrence but quantum of inoculums or number of spores per unit area which have a direct effect oh the development of diseases in the fields as well as in the markets. An aeromycological survey of different sites viz., inside (indoor), outside (outdoor) and dumping area of Goubert's vegetable market in Pondicherry city was carried out by employing sedimentation method (exposing PDA mediated petridishes) for one year. Air samplings were made at monthly intervals for isolating the prevalent fungi from the study sites in between 11AM to 12 noon from September 2009 to August 2010. In total, 108 petriplates were exposed during the study period. Altogether, 31 species under 18 genera were isolated, among which Aspergillus spp were recorded as the dominants and had I 1 species, followed by Mucor and Rhizopus. The prevalence of spores was found more inside the vegetable market followed by dumping area and outside of the vegetable market. Besides aspergilli, other fungi like, penicilli, Absidia, Achlya,, Alternaria, Curvu/aria, Geotrichum, Syncephalastrum, Mortierella, Wallemia, Fusarium, Trichothecium, Aureobasidium and Candida were identified. Summer season was found to harbours more fungal spores in comparison to rainy and winter. The analysis of data indicates that concentration of airborne fungi in different environments viz., indoors, outdoors and dumping area of the vegetable market is very high and quite variable depending on the climatic conditions. The spores of Aspergillus, Mucor, Rhizopus, Penicillium, Cladosporium were found to be predominant, probably due to their wide host range and opportunistic nature. Seasonal variation of the various types was highly related to the availability of the substrates needed for the fungal growth. The seasonal climate had positive variations of the influence on occurrence of aeromycoflora. Summer and winter months registered maximum frequency and concentration of fungal spores due to favourable growth and sporulating conditions for fungi and availability of suitable substrates. Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis showed the direct relationship of temperature and humidity with the incidence of fungal spores in the vegetable market environment.

7 illus, 1 table, 22 ref

012972   Nayak B K;Sudha J S;Nanda A (Plant Biology & Biotechnology Dep, KM Centre for P.G., Studies, Pondicherry, Email: bijuknayak@gmail.com) : Airborne microfungi in the extra and intra-mural environments of a bakery in Pondicherry city. Indian J Aerobiol 2012, 25(1), 28-34.

Incidence of fungal infections is solely responsible for the quality and safety of bakery items and the way of their maintenance. The present approach aims to screen out the prevalence of airborne fungal spores of intra and extramural environments of 'College Corner Bakery' in Pondicherry city. The air samplings in the bakery were taken by sedimentation method for one year (September' 2010 - August' 2011). During the study period, a total number of 1753 fungal CFUs assigned to 29 fungal species under 15 genera were encountered of which outdoor shared 51% and indoor comprised 49% of the total. Cladosporium cladosporioides contributed 35% in indoors and Cladosporium sp. comprised of 42% in outdoors. Cladosporium sp. was found to be abundant in both the sites of the bakery. In terms of fungal composition, Aspergillus sp. were recorded the maximum (7) followed by 5 species of Penicillium. Winter season showed the presence of maximum number of fungal spores followed by rainy and summer season. Incidence of more number of fungi had found as a tendency of attraction towards the moister availability in the bakery environments.

8 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

012971   Narolia R S;Singh P;Mathur I N;Baldev Ram; Raigar P R (AICRP on Water Management, Agricultural Research Station (MPUA&T), Ummedganj, Kota-324 001, Email: naolia2007@gmail.com) : Impact of improved water management technology on productivity and sustainability of mustard under Chambal command. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2013, 4(3), 317-20.

On farm trials of mustard species, Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. & Coss. were conducted during five consecutive years 2005-06 to 2009-10 at farmer's field of Kota and Bundi districts under operational research programme (ORP) operated by Agricultural Research Station, Kota to evaluate improved water management technology for enhancing the productivity and economics of mustard crop. Two treatments were evaluated at 18 locations and comprised of improved water management technology (i.e. two irrigations, first at full branching and second at siliqua development stages) by border strip (6 m x 50 m) method using 80% cut off ratio compared with farmer's practice i.e. flood irrigation method. Results revealed that improved water management technology gave higher and sustainable yield of mustard over the years compared to farmers practice. The mean yield recorded (1993 kg/ha) which was 9.0% higher as compared to farmers practice (1833 kg/ha). Sustainability of mustard yield reflects the higher sustainability yield index (0.92) and sustainability value index (0.62). Improved water management technology possesses higher water expense efficiency (166.0 kg/ha-cm) and incremental benefit cost ratio (5.3) over farmers practice.

^ssc3 tables, 7 ref

012970   Murugan C;Kamble M Y (Botanical Survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, Port Blair-744 102) : Alpinia luteo-carpa Elmer (Zingiberaceae)- a new record for India from the Bay islands. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 333-4.

Alpinia luteo-carpa Elmer is reported for the first time from Andaman Islands. A short description with illustration, colour photo and relevant notes are provided.

2 illus, 1 ref

012969   Murugan C (Botanical Survey of India, Andaman and Nicobar Regional Centre, Port Blair-744 102) : Memecylon minutiflorum MIQ. (Memecylaceae)- a new record for India from the Mount Harriet National Park, Bay islands, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 469-70.

Memecylon minutiflorum Miq. (Memecylaceae) from the Mount Harriet National Park, Bay Islands is a new distributional record for India. A short description with herbarium image is provided here for further collection and identification.

1 illus, 4 ref

012968   Mishra A (Botany Dep, Mahatma Gandhi Chitrakoot Gramodaya Vishwavidyalaya, Chitrakoot, Satna, Email: arpanamishra@ymail.com) : Phytotoxic effect of Lantana camara leaf, stem and root aqueous extracts on chlorophyll contents of Parthenium hysterophorus in seedling stage. Flora Fauna 2012, 18(2), 171-6.

Chlorophyll contents of Parthenium hysterophorus were inhibited with the treatment of different concentrations of leaf, stem and root aqueous extracts of Lantana camara. Phytotoxicity was directly proportional to the concentration of the extracts and higher concentration had the stronger inhibitory effect. Maximum reduction in chlorophyll contents was observed in 100% aqueous leaf extract. Minimum reduction in chlorophyll contents was observed in 25% aqueous root extract.

7 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

012967   Meena S L;Pandey R P (Botanical Survey of India, Arid Zone Regional Centre, Jodhpur-342 008) : New Sedge record for the flora of Gujarat, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 339-40.

Deals with a sedge species Scleria lithosperma (L.) Swartz new to Gujarat state. The paper also envisages brief citation, description, flowering and fruiting time followed by ecological notes, critical notes and specimens examined.

1 illus, 17 ref

012966   Mathur M;Sundaramoorthy S (NO, , 18E/564, Chopasni Housing Board Jodhpur, Rajasthan, Email: ravi_mm2099@yahoo.com) : Economic assessment and conservation priorities of the Indian Thar desert medicinal plants. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2013, 4(3), 283-94.

Status of 136 medicinal plants of the Indian Thar Desert was assessed by using various approaches, viz. Relative Importance (RI), standardized agro-techniques and trading facilities. The studied plants belong to 49 plant families dominated by Fabaceae. These medicinal plants are useful for the treatment of 145 different disorders of human body system. Azadirachta indica A. Juss. possesses maximum number of pharmacological (30) properties, while Aloe vera L. has uses for highest number of body system (12). A. vera possess the maximum (90.0) Relative Importance followed by Achyranthes aspera L. (84.2) and A. indica (83.3); the lowest by Barleria acanthoides Vahl (7.5). Approximately, 36% plants species which possess RI <62> 50. However, the frequency distribution of RI values exhibited normal distribution. Four different classes were made on the basis of availability of standardized agrotechniques and trading facilities. A. aspera, Boerhavia diffusa L., Abutilon indicum (L.) Sweet and Abrus precatorius L. needs immediate conservation priorities to avoid their wild harvesting.

3 illus, 5 tables, 56 ref

012965   Manorma Kumari;Sinha P;Pawan Prakash (Botany Dep, A.N. College, Patna) : Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used for treatment of urinary tract and kidney stone in rural area of Jahanabad (Bihar). Flora Fauna 2012, 18(2), 187-9.

Ethnobotanical survey was conducted to explore medicinal plants used in rural area of Jahanabad (a district of Bihar) for the treatment of urinary tract and kidney stones. These ailments have affected human beings since antiquity. The information about plants was gathered during field visit by contacting and interviewing traditional healers and other rural people. The study revealed that fifteen plants belonging to different families were extensively used as local remedies.

13 ref

012964   Manikandan R;Lakshminarasimhan P (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehra Dun-248 195) : Habitat and life form analysis of endemic plants of Rajiv Gandhi National Park, Karnataka. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 493-502.

During the botanical exploration of Rajiv Gandhi National Park between 1999 and 2004, a total of 107 endemic plants were collected which are listed here with detailed information. Of these, 72 angiosperms and 1 pteridophyte are restricted to Peninsular India and the remaining 34 species occur in other parts of India (including Peninsular India).

2 illus, 1 table, 39 ref

012963   Manikandan R (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehra Dun-248 195) : Note on endemism in Asteraceae from Karnataka state. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 361-74.

Study on the family Asteraceae for Flora of Karnataka state, revealed that there are 92 genera, 164 species, 8 infra-taxa and 19 cultivated species in the Karnataka state, out of these, 39 taxa belongs to 16 genera are endemic to India and found in the state. The details of endemic taxa are provided here.

8 ref

012962   Kushwaha V B;Singh A (Zoology Dep, DDU Gorakhpur Univ, Gorakhpur-273 009, Email: vbk2006@sify.com) : Molluscicidal activity of latex of Calotropis procera. Int J Aquatic Sci Technol 2013, 1(2), 7-12.

Calotropis procera (Ait.) R.Br. commonly known, as "Arka" is a popular medicinal plant Mound throughout the tropics of Asia and Africa. It has been widely used in the Indian traditional system for the treatment of a variety of disease conditions due to the presence of various cardenolides, triterpenoids, anthocyanins and hydrocarbons in it. In this paper we have evaluated the toxicity of latex of C.procera against harmful snails Lymnaea acuminata and Indoplanorbis exustus. The toxicity of the extracts of latex was both time and dose dependent. Aqueous extract of latex of C.procera was less toxic compared to the extracts of ethanol and carbon tetra chloride. The 96h LC₅₀ of aqueous extract of latex was 68.49 mg/l and 76.40 mg/l whereas same of ethanolic extract was 40.91mg/l and 35.80mg/l against the snails Lymnaea acuminata and Indoplanorbis exustus respectively. The CCI₄ extract of latex was more toxic to the snails, Lymnaea acuminata and Indoplanorbis exustus and 96h LC₅₀ was found to be 14.25mg/l and 22.88 mg/l respectively.

3 tables, 22 ref

012961   Kulkarni D K;Nipunage D S;Hangarge L M; Kulkarni A D (NO, BAIF Development Research Foundation, Warje-Malwadi, Pune) : Quantitative plant diversity evaluation of Sagadara and Navalachi rai-monotypic sacred groves in Pune distrcit of Maharastra state, India. Ann Biol Res 2013, 4(2), 234-40.

Forest preserved on religious grounds is known as Deorai or Deo rahati or Sacred grove. It is a traditional heritage of nature conservation in Indian culture and civilization. Generally, sacred groves are classified into different forest types and they preserve climax vegetation. Monotypic sacred groves are unique in their vegetation pattern. Sagdara and Navalaichi rai are two distinct groves situated in Pune district. Sagdara is located near Shirdale village in Ambegaon Taluka. It lies between 74° 03' E and 18° 82' N having 400 mm rainfall in monsoon season. It has 2.04 ha area and major population is of sag/teak (Tectona grandis L.). Due to sag trees it is known as Sagdara. Navalaichi rai is situated in Sinhagad-Bhuleshwar range near village Thopatewadi. It lies between 73° 77 to 73° 84' E and 18° 33' to 18° 41'N having 7000- 8000 mm rainfall in monsoon season. It has 0.5 ha area and major population is of Saigiri (Miliusa tomentosa (Roxb.) Sinclair). The present paper deals with evaluation of these two monotypic sacred groves for their habitat conservation, population richness of species, quantitative assessment of tree diversity and comparative floristic account.

23 ref

012960   Kataria S;Dilsher Kaur (Pharmaceutical Sciences Dep, Jodhpur National Univ, Jodhpur-342 001, Email: katariasandy@gmail.com) : Ethnopharmacological approaches to inflammation-exploring medicinal plants. Indian J nat Prod Resour 2013, 4(3), 295-305.

Since ancient times, plants have been an exemplary source of medicine. Ayurveda and other literature mention the use of plants in treatment of various human ailments. An integrated approach is needed to manage inflammation using the growing body of knowledge gained through scientific developments. Thousands of herbal and traditional compounds are being screened worldwide to validate their use as anti-inflammatory drugs. The present review thus attempts to analyze the ethnobotanical knowledge base for treatment of inflammation which includes usage of plants, methods employed by tribals and folklore practices prevailing in India. Review of literature on anti-inflammatory drugs of plant origin revealed identification of newer Ayurvedic drugs that are not mentioned in the ancient texts. These new findings add up to Ayurvedic science that has been developed through ages. Pharmacological reports available on medicinal plants employing various anti-inflammatory models and its underlying molecular mechanism, wherever available, have also been briefly reviewed. This review therefore, attempts to bridge the lacunae in the existing literature and offers immense scope for researchers engaged in validation of the traditional claims and development of safe and effective and globally accepted herbal drugs for inflammation.

1 illus, 2 tables, 117 ref

012959   Karthigeyan K;Sumathi R;Jayanthi J (Centre for Floristic Research, Botany Dep, Madras Christain College, Chennai-600 059) : On the occurrence of Pseuduvaria reticulata (Blume) MIQ. (annonaceae) from Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 473-4.

The genus Pseuduvaria Miq. is represented by three species in Andaman and Nicobar Islands of which P. reticulata (Blume) Miq. is reported as an addition to the flora of Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

1 illus, 7 ref

012958   Joshi V;Joshi S P (Ecology Research Laboratory, Botany Dep, D.A.V.(P.G) College, Dehra Dun, Uttarakhand) : Floristic diversity in Pyrus malus L. orchards in Chakrata. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 311-6.

The present paper is a result of exploration of wild species distributed in Pyrus malus L. orchard of the Chakrata Forest Division, Uttarakhand. In orchards, out of 179 species which have been listed, of them 161 belong to dicotyledons of 53 families and 16 belong to monocotyledons of 06 families. Gymnosperms are also distributed within 02 species of 01 family.

2 illus, 3 tables, 4 ref

012957   Joshi P;Brijesh Kumar;Ramesh Kumar;Pande H C (Botanical Survey of India, Northern Regional Centre, Dehra Dun-248 195) : Pteridophytes of Budha Kedar and surrounding areas in Tehri district of Uttarakhand. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 479-82.

Deals with the Pteridophytes of Budha Kedar and surrounding areas in Tehri District. A total of 66 species under 33 genera and 20 families from the area are being reported in the present communication.

13 ref

012956   Joshi G;Jain D K;Singh P N;Bansal R (Botany Dep, Meerut College, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of culture filtrates of phylloplane fungi on conidial germination of Alternaria alternata and Colletotrichum capsici. J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 525-8.

In vitro antagonistic activity of culture filtrates of phylloplane fungi was tested against pathogens causing diseases of Impatiens balsamina. The conidia germination of Alternaria alternata was greatly inhibited by culture filtrate of Trichoderma viride followed by Aspergillus flavus, A. niger, Chaetomium globosum and Curvularia lunata. Germ tube growth was inhibited by all test fungi, maximum by Trichoderma viride followed by Aspergillus niger, A. flavus and Chaetomium globosum. Maximum inhibition of conidia germination of Colletotrichum capsici was caused by Trichoderma viride followed by Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporum, Aspergillus flavus and Chaetomium globosum. Maximum inhibition of germ tube growth was also caused by Trichoderma viride followed by Aspergillus niger, Fusarium oxysporum and Aspergillus flavus.

^ssc2 tables, 9 ref

012955   Jose P A;Pandurangan A G;Hussain A (NO, Tropical Botanic Garden and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram-695 562) : Effect of auxins on clonal propagation of Gluta travancorica Bedd.- an endemic tree of southern western ghats. Indian J For 2011, 34(1), 85-8.

The present study is Gluta travancorica Bedd. (Anacardiaceae) on different aged stems for initiating roots by treating with IAA, IB A and NAA, at concentrations of 250, 500, 1000 and 2000 ppm had resulted in rooting of juvenile stem cuttings from 1-2 year old plants. The highest rooting of 75% achieved with the use of NAA 1000 ppm from juvenile stem cuttings indicated that juvenility along with the type of auxin were critical for the successful conventional clonal propagation of the species. Thus, the clonal propagation through juvenile stem cuttings of G travancorica is recommended as a promising method for multiplication, conservation and management of this timber resource.

1 illus, 1 table, 15 ref

012954   Jose P A;Pandurangan A G (NO, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur-680 653) : Occurrence of albino ssedlings and its genetic significance in Gluta travancorica Bedd.. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 377-8.

The seeds of Gluta travancorica Bedd. during ex situ germination exhibited multiple albino seedlings along with normal green ones. The albinos were perished after 40-50 days of germination due to lack of chlorophyll. The development of albino seedlings thus being facilitated to identify the albino carrying genotypes of the species in its natural populations and further to act as a genetic marker to estimate the degree of self breeding in the species. The phenomenon insights much genetic significance in determining the threat status and foreseen the endangerment of the species in the Western Ghats.

1 illus, 16 ref

012953   Jose P A;Pandurangan A G (NO, Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur-680 653, Email: pajosekfri@gmail.com ) : Reproductive biology of Ochreinauclea missionis (Wall. EX G. Don)Ridsd. an endemic and vulnerable tree from the western ghats, India. Ann For 2012, 20(2), 161-7.

Study on the reproductive biology viz., flower phenology, structure, anthesis and breeding system, fruit and seed phenological phases along with entomological associations of Ochreinauclea missionis (Wall. ex G. Don) Ridsd. (Rubiaceae). The narrow range of habitat specificity in the riparian ecosystems, habitat loss, fragmentation of populations, premature fruit fall due to insect incidence, poor seed quality coupled with low fertilization rate, high predation rate of soil fruit bank etc. extends the causes of rarity and endangerment of the species in near future.

2 illus, 12 ref

012952   John De Britto A;Nirmal Kumar N (P.G. and Research Plant Biology and Biotechnology Dep, St. Xavier's College, Palayamkottai-627 002) : Genetic and chemical variability in populations of Dioscorea pentaphylla L. in Tirunelveli hills in South India. Indian J For 2011, 34(1), 89-94.

Dioscorea pentaphylla L was collected from ten locations in Tirunelveli hills and the genetic variability was investigated using RAPD - PCR fingerprint and the populations which showed high percentage of polymorphism was selected. Those populations were chosen for further phytochemical analysis. The active principle in these plants has been quantified by HPLC analysis. The population which exhibited both high percentage of polymorphism and high amount of active principle was considered to be the superior genotype.

5 tables, 13 ref

012951   Jhariya M K;Bargali S S;Swamy S L;Oraon P R (Forestry Dep, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh-492 006, Email: manu9589@gmail.com) : Herbaceous diversity in proposed mining area of Rowghat in Narayanpur district of Chhattisgarh, India. J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 385-93.

Study was conducted with the objective to analyze the structure and diversity of herbaceous vegetation in mining sites and to prepare eco-restoration plan for planting the key species in the adjacent degraded land surrounding environs of Rowghat area. The composition, structure and diversity of different forest sites/villages were conducted by stratified random sampling to measure herbaceous vegetation. The highest density of herbs was found in Bhusujkun Dongri followed by Khadkagaon. In this study we found that Godenmar Dongri and Bedhiyar Nala contained more number of species as compared to other study sites. The diversity pattern showed that the Parmad Dongri had maximum diversity followed by Bhusujkun Dongri and Ravdongri whereas Khodgaon had minimum Shannon index. In the Godenmar Dongri the density were much affected due to the present of various factors or by anthropogenic pressures which will ultimately results the gap in the regeneration status.

1 table, 39 ref

012950   Jhansi Lakshmi B;Jaganmohanreddy K (Botany Dep, Kakatiya Univ, Warangal-506 009) : Screening of secondary metabolites in methanolic leaf and bark extracts of Gardenia resinifera and Gardenia latifolia. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2011, 4(1), 23-8.

Secondary metabolites are plant natural products in broad sense cover all the chemical compounds which occurs in nature. These are also known as special metabolites. Secondary metabolites derived as a result of plant metabolism. The research work aims to investigate for screening of different secondary metabolites in methanolic extracts of Gardenia resinifera and Gardenia latifolia. Different chemical tests clearly revealed that these two species found to contain Steroids, Phenolic compounds and Flavonoids in leaf and bark.

1 table, 30 ref

012949   Hedawoo G B;Chakranarayan R G (Post Graduate Botany Dep, Mycology and Plant Pathology Laboratory, Shri Shivaji Science College, Amravati, Maharashtra) : Isolation of fungal species from the seeds of some Indian spices. Biosci Biotechnol Res Communs 2011, 4(2), 208-10.

Fenugreek, coriander and ammi are extensively used as spices and cultivated in Amravati region. Pathogens adversely affect the production and quality of spices. The seed-borne pathogens are one of the major causes of serious diseases in growing crops because of poor health and quality of seeds. To realize this aspect, the study has been undertaken and it was observed that total thirteen fungal species viz. Altemaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. nidulans, A. niger, A. ochraceus, Cladosporium cladosporioidis, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium moniliforme, Mucor variance, Penicillium chrysogenum, Rhizopus nigricans and Syncephalastrum racemosum were isolated on above three spices seeds by Agar Plate Method (APM). Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, A. ochraceus, Curvularia lunata, Penicillium chrysogenum and Rhizopus nigricans species were found common on all the three spices seeds. Aspergillus niger counted the highest percentage of incidence i.e. 18.82%, 21.35% and 24.28% on the seeds of fenugreek, coriander and ammi respectively and lowest (4.33%) of Penicillium chrysogenum on ammi seeds.

2 tables, 19 ref

012948   Gupta M;Vimala Y;Sharma A (Botany Dep, R.G. (P.G.) College, Meerut-250 001, Email: yvimala@gmail.com) : Ailments/treatments recorded through ethnomedicinal survey vis-a-vis the flora of C.C.S. University, Meerut campus and surroundings. J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 349-62.

Indigenous knowledge about ethnomedicinal value of 109 plants out of submitted flora of Chaudhary Charan Singh University Campus and surroundings has been collected from local people living in the villages around the campus as well as people of Banjara Community living along the road side near the campus through questionnaire and personal interview method. Plants were arranged alphabetically according to their Botanical names, local/common names, family, plant parts used as well as ethnomedicinal applications. The analysis of the data interestingly pointed towards possible propensity of stomach disorders since ancient period in this region as most of the plants/plant parts have been used for treating stomach ailments. Besides, plants for treatment of Alzheimers', HTV and dengue in traditional knowledge are indicative of rich understanding of these ailments which are yet less understood. Local traditional knowledge can hence be used for advancement of treatments for sustenance of the race in changing times.

9 ref

012947   Gupta D;Sharma G (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006, Email: geetaji@yahoo.com) : Distribution of some important biodiesel plants of Jammu district (Jammu & Kashmir, India). J Pl Dev Sci 2013, 5(4), 421-2.

India which imports most of the fuel from other countries to meet its energy demands is in the need of some alternate source of fuel such as biodiesel. Jatropha curcas, Pongamia pinnata, Ricinus communis and Argemone mexicana are the important feed stocks of biodiesel. The present communication documents their distribution in Jammu district.

1 illus, 13 ref

012946   Gunaga R P;Vasudeva R (NO, College of Foresty, DBSKKV, Dapoli-415 712) : Twin seedlings in Symplocos kanarana Talb.. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 489-90.

Symplocos kanarana Talbot (Family: Symplocaceae) is an evergreen tree species of the Western Ghats. During the nursery study, three twin seedlings of S. kanarana are recorded and it contributed 5% abnormality to the entire seedling lot.

1 illus, 10 ref

012945   Giri S K (Botany Dep, Shri Mathuradas Mohota College of Science, Nagpur-440 009, Email: drsk.giri@rediffmail.com ) : Aeromycological survey in intramural environment of a college laboratory. Indian J Aerobiol 2012, 25(2), 59-64.

Mold Aspergillus is known to produce infected fungal balls in the lungs. The extent of the fungus role in human disease is only now becoming clear. Fungal spores are the chief vector for most human fungal diseases besides poisoning and cancer through ingestion. The present study was undertaken to identify and find out the concentrations of various aerial allergenic fungal spores in indoor environment of college laboratory. Air sampling was carried out by using Hi-Air Sampler (Hi-media laboratories, System-Mark-II). Total 36 fungal types were isolated and identified from the indoor ambient air of laboratory. Aspergillus was the most dominant component of the airspora followed by Penicillium, Curvularia, Cladosporium, Alternaria, Chaetomium, Trichoderma, Mucor, and Rhizopus. Symptoms of health problems caused by biological pollutants include sneezing, watery eyes, coughing, and shortness of breath, dizziness, lethargy, fever and digestive problems. Allergic reactions occur only after repeated exposure to a specific biological allergen. However, that reaction may occur immediately upon re-exposure or after multiple exposures over time. As a result, people who have noticed only mild allergic reactions or no reactions at all, may suddenly find themselves very sensitive to particular allergens.

2 illus, 2 tables, 20 ref

012944   Dib H;Beghdad M C;Belarbi M (NO, Laboratory of Natural Products, Molecular and Cell Biology Dep, Tlemcen, Algeria) : Phytochemical study of Algerian Opuntia ficus-indica. Ann Biol Res 2013, 4(2), 185-9.

Some chemical compounds distribution in three parts (cladodes, flowers and seeds) belonging to Cactaceae family were assessed and compared. The plant investigated was Opuntia ficus-indica Mill (pickly pear), which were found to contain flavonoids, tannins, reducing compounds and fatty acids. Coumarins were absolutely absent in tree parts of the plant. Alkaloids were present in the seeds of Opuntia ficus-indica but absent in cladodes and flowers unlike anthocyaosids and anthracenodis wich were present in flowers but absent in cladodes and seeds.

16 ref

012943   Datar M N;Ghate V S (Botany Group Plant Science Div, Agharkar Research Institute, Pune-411 004) : Teratological observations on Celosia argentea L.. Indian J For 2011, 34(3), 375-6.

Celosia argentea L. is one of the common species growing in fallow lands, cultivated fields and as ruderal flora along roads. During field studies at Kinjalgad, Wai Taluka, Satara district, Maharashtra one unusual individual of this species with teratological growth of stem and inflorescence was recorded. Details of teratological changes have been discussed in the communication.

1 illus, 7 ref

012942   Chakrabarty T;Diwakar P G (Botanical Survey of India, Western Regional Centre, Pune-411 001) : Note on the status of Combretum razianum (Combretaceae). Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 483-4.

Combretum razianum K.G. Bhat is reduced to a subspecies of C. pilosum Roxb. ex G. Don.

1 illus, 1 table, 1 ref

012941   Butt F A;Langer A (Botany Dep, Jammu Univ, Jammu-180 006) : Studies on the population status of Dumortiera hirsuta (S.W.) Nees growing in Bhaderwah (North West Himalaya). Indian J For 2011, 34(1), 95-8.

Paper includes information on intraspecific variability (ecologial and morpho-anatomical) among 25 accessions of Dumortiera hirsuta collected from diverse habitats in Bhaderwah (J.&K,). Taxon exhibits tremendous diversity in ecological (habitat, pH and altitude) and morpho-anatomical (both gametophytic and sporophytic) characters.

16 illus, 16 ref

012940   Bhattacharjee A;Chowdhery H J (Central National Herbarium, Botanical Survey of India, Botanic Garden, Howrah-711 103) : On the identity of Zeuxine goodyeroides Lindl. and Zeuxine nervosa (Wall. Ex Lindl.) trimen. Indian J For 2011, 34(4), 475-6.

Zeuxine goodyeroides and Z. nervosa are two closely related but distinct species of terrestrial orchid. Despite having significant distinguishing characters, these have been misidentified and wrongly reported in some recent works. The present paper deals with the correct identity of these species.

1 illus, 1 table, 12 ref