009212   Nandapure S P;Wankhade S G;Jadhao S M;Bhoyar S M;Wanjari S S;Sarode R B (Directorate of Extension Education, Dr. PDKV, Akola, Maharashtra) : Quality parameters of java citronella oil as influenced by nutrient management under inceptisols. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 579-84.

Field experiment was carried out at Nagarjun Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Garden, Dr. P.D.K. V., Akola (M.S.) during kharif 2009-10 and 2010-11. The experimental soil was calcareous in nature and moderately alkaline in reaction. The fertility status of the soil was moderate in organic carbon, low in available nitrogen and available phosphorus and very high in available potassium while the soil micronutrient contents (Zn, Fe, Mn, Cu) were above the critical level. Experiment comprised of thirteen treatments replicated thrice in randomized block design, involving control (no fertilizer/ manure), 5 t FYM ha^{-1 10 t FYM ha-1 80:20:40 kg NPK ha-1 100:30:60 kg NPK ha-1, 140:40:80 kg NPK ha-1, 5 t FYM + 80:20:40 kg NPK ha-1, 5 t FYM + 100:30:60 kg NPK ha-1, 5 t FYM + 140:40:80 kg NPK ha-1, 10 t FYM + 80:20:40 kg NPK ha-1, 10 t FYM + 100:30:60 kg NPK ha-1, 10 t FYM + 140:40:80 kg NPK ha-1 and 100 kg N through FYM (based on FYM analysis). The results indicated that, alone application of organic manure, NPK graded doses and combination of both (FYM + NPK) had no significant influence on the physical (specific gravity, refractive index, optical rotation and solubility in alcohol) and chemical properties (acid value, ester value and saponification value) of Java citronella oil. It was observed as per the BIS standard. In case of major constituents of Java citronella oil, the citronellol, geraniol and citronellal content were varied from 11.04 to 15.01%, 30.56 to 41.84% and 14.05 to 23.28%, respectively as influenced under the various treatments of nutrient management. However on the basis of mean values worked out with the various FYM and NPK gradeifdoses and combination of FYM + NPK graded doses, the application of FYM doses in combination with graded doses of NPK improved the content of citronellol and geraniol, while the citronellal content was comparatively higher with the application of FYM doses alone. Hence, it can be concluded that the conjunctive use of FYM along with chemical fertilizer (10 t FYM + 140:40:80 kg NPK ha-1) was found beneficial way of nutrient management to improve the quality of Java citronella oil.}

3 tables, 11 ref

009211   Nagar J;Khinchi S K;Kumawat K C;Sharma A (Entomology Dep, SKN College of Agriculture, SKN Agriculture Univ, Jobner, Rajasthan) : Screening different varieties of okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] against sucking insect pests. J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(3), 30-4.

Out of nine varieties of okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench screened against the sucking insect pests [leaf hopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida); whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (Genn.)], none of the variety was found completely free from the infestation of leaf hopper and whitefly, although they differed significantly in their degree of damage and pest number to harbour. The varieties IIVR-11and IIVR-10 were found as least susceptible, varieties Hisar Unnat, Pusa A-4, Versa Uphar, Pusa Sawani, Aparajita and Ankur-40 as moderately susceptible; and variety Anika as highly susceptible to the leaf hopper. The varieties IIVR-11 and IIVR-10 were found as least susceptible, varieties Hisar Unnat, Pusa A-4, Versa Uphar, Pusa Sawani and Aparajita as moderately susceptible; and varieties Ankur-40 and Anika as highly susceptible to the whitefly infestation. The morphological characters, viz., plant height and days to initiation of flowering of different varieties of okra had positive significant effect on the infestation of leaf hopper and whitefly. Length and width of fruits had significant positive effect on infestation of leaf hopper while non-significant effect on infestation of whitefly. Hairiness (on shoot, leaf and fruit) and number of fruits per plant had negative significant effect on the infestation of leaf hopper and whitefly.

3 tables, 12 ref

009210   Mukhtar S A (NO, Sugarcane Research Center-Guneid, Sudan, Email: salahamukhtar@hotmail.com) : Effect of pre-irrigation, time of first irrigation and nitrogen applied to seedcane, on germination of june planted sugarcane. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 701-7.

Two experiments were conducted in seasons 2011/012 and 2012/013 at Guneid Sugarcane Research Center farm. The objective was to improve the germination of June planted sugarcane by suppressing the high ambient and soil temperature that adversely affect germination at that time of the year in addition to giving nitrogen to the seedcane. Treatments consisted of pre-irrigation (irrigation before planting) versus no pre-irrigation (no irrigation before planting); and irrigation on first day immediately after planting versus irrigation on the second day; and a dose of 50 kg of nitrogen as urea given to seedcane farm eight weeks before cutting versus no nitrogen application. The results showed superiority of immediate irrigation in the first day and pre-watering over other treatments on germination only for the two seasons and the combine analysis also. There was a positive interaction between the named treatments. In this connection, there was a visual observation of bigger growth of the early germinated plants in the first season due to the interaction of treatments of irrigation immediately after planting and pre-watering so that the practice of split ridging usually done by machine was done manually to avoid destruction of bigger plants (resultant of the positive interaction) or the burying of smaller ones (resultant of the negative interaction). Moreover, effect of urea application to seedcane increased germination in season 2011/012 (first season) but was shown significant only for the reading at four weeks. The results also showed no significant differences between other measured agronomic and quality characters of sugarcane for the two seasons in response to all the tested treatments. The results also showed no significant differences between other measured agronomic and quality characters of sugarcane for the two seasons in response to all the tested treatments. The study confirmed the importance of June planting of sugarcane in Sudan because very high cane yield was obtained. Further, the suggested means to improve the germination of the planted sugarcane in June included pre-watering and irrigation immediately after planting. These treatments would increase the population of millable stalks and final cane yield when planted in commercial areas as usually done.

8 tables, 8 ref

009209   Mohit Kumar;Singh S N;Abhishek Kumar;Yadav R R;Doharey R K;Manoj Kumar (NO, Extension Education Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Knowledge extent of management practices about mango cultivation in Saharanpur district (U.P.). J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(3), 27-9.

This study was conducted in Rampur Maniharan Block of district Saharanpur selected purposively. A total number of 100 Mango growers were selected through random sampling from five villages. The structured schedule was developed keeping in view the objectives and variable to be studied. The respondents were contacted personally for data collection. Out of 10 cultivation practices i.e. agricultural practices of Mango cultivation, Field preparation (87.56%) was rank at 1st as far as knowledge possessed by the respondents was concerned. The practice Fertilizer application rank at 2nd (85.45%), followed by High yielding varieties at rank 3rd (76.56%), Intercropping and weed management at rank 4th (67.45%), Irrigation management at rank 5th (66.21%), Plant protection measures at rank 6th (61.23%), Harvesting and marketing at rank 7th (59.11%), Transplanting at rank 8th (48.43%), Recommended spacing at rank 9th (45.09%) and Plant growth regulators at rank 10th (25.89%), respectively.

2 tables, 7 ref

009208   Mohammad N;Mahesh S;Jain Y K;Ansari S A (Genetic and Plant Propagation Div, Tropical Forest Research Institute, Jabalpur-482 021, Email: shamimansari_1@yahoo.co.uk) : Effect of discrete (individual) and mixed (bulk) genomic DNA on genetic diversity estimates and population structure in teak (Tectona grandis L. f.). Indian J expl Biol 2017, 55(1), 44-8.

Teak (Tectona grandis L.f.), a paragon timber tree of tropical deciduous forests of Central and Peninsular India, is highly prized for its wood colour, decorative grains, durability and lightness. An experiment was carried out to compare the genetic variation detected and genetic relationships inferred in five teak populations via 10 genomic DNA samples per population each of either single seed or bulk of 3- or 5- seeds with the help of ISSR markers. The genomic DNA of single seed exhibited higher number of polymorphic loci, per cent polymorphism, nei's genetic diversity and shannon Information Index than the bulk genomic DNA of 3- or 5- seeds. The bulking of genomic DNA of 3- and 5- seeds using Nei's genetic distance coefficient revealed similar genetic relationships, which were at variance with those in single seed treatment. Mantel's correlation test among the genetic distance matrices of single seed sampling, 3-seed bulk and 5-seed bulk sampling also confirmed the trend. Since the bulking of genomic DNA did not generate compatible estimates of diversity parameters and genetic relationship of five populations from its single seed sampling, we recommend strict guarding of identities of genotypes within the collected samples for obtaining precise estimates and drawing accurate conclusions about the genetic diversity and clustering of populations.

1 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

009207   Mishra N;Sahu G S;Ray M (Vegetable Science Dep, College of Agriculture, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Email: nityamanjari.mishra@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen and potassium on yield and quality of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.grossom) cv. california wonder under open field and shade net condition. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 45-8.

A field experiment was carried out in the department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, OUAT, Bhubaneswar with randomized block design (Factorial) with four doses of nitrogen (125, 150, 175 and 200 Kg/ha) and two doses of potash (125 and 150 Kg/ha) and their combinations in open field as well as shade net condition to find out the individual effect and their combination on different yield and yield attributing parameters under Bhubaneswar agro-climatic condition during 2008-09. number of fruits per plant, ascorbic acid content, T.S.S. (°brix), 100 seeds weight, yield per plot, and Yield per hectare were recorded during the course of investigation. It was found that most of the yield and yield attributing traits were increased due to higher doses of nitrogen and potash. However, application of N3K2 (175:150 Kg/ha) along with P at a constant rate of 75 kg/ha was found to be the best both in open and shade net condition which increased the most economic characters.

2 tables, 8 ref

009206   Minj A K;Sahu M;Chopkar R;Jha Z;Verulkar S B (Plant Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, IGKV, Raipur, 492 012, Email: zenujha@gmail.com) : Optimization of media and cultural conditions for androgenesis in two indica rice crosses to regeneration doubled haploid plants. J Cell Tissue Res 2016, 16(3), 5899-904.

Anther culture based double haploid (DH) production is a technology which can significantly reduce the time period required for development of new crop variety. In the present investigation an attempt was made to develop DH using anther culture (androgenesis) in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Crosses Safri-17x PB- 3 and Safri 17 X RYT 3275 was subject for the study. Parameter like media composition, hormonal treatment etc. was standardized for efficient development of DH. The anther were excised and plated on to N₆ media supplemented with 3% maltose 0.8% agar, 2 ml/l 2,4-D and the pH was maintained of 5.8. In cross Safri-17x PB 3 the callus induction percent was 2.34% and in variety Safri 17 X RYT3275 callus induction percent is 1.17%. The induce callus was transfer in 16 different media (T1 to T16) for regeneration. Then green callus was transfer to green plant regeneration media. Treatment No. T10 was found to be best as it has produce 8 number of green plant cross Safri-17x PB 3. In Safri 17 X RYT3275, T13 has generated 3 green plants and 3 albino plants.

1 illus, 6 tables, 12 ref

009205   Meena H N;Bohra J S;Jinger D;Rajpoot S K (Agronomy Div, BHU, Varanasi-221 005) : Effect of tillage and crop establishment methods on productivity, profitability and quality of rice under rice-wheat cropping system. Ann agric Res 2016, 37(4), 369-73.

Rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS) had played a great role in the food security of India. A field experiment on sandy clay loam soil was conducted during kharif and rabi seasons of 2011 at the Agriculture Research Farm, Institute of Agriculture Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi (U.P.) to study the effect of tillage and crop establishment methods on productivity, profitability and quality of rice under rice-wheat cropping system. The experiment was conducted in strip-plot design with four crop establishment methods (Direct seedling by zero till drill, direct seedling of sprouted seeds by drum seeder, hand transplanting and mechanical transplanting by self propelled transplanter) in rice as horizontal strip and four tillage methods in wheat as vertical strips. Highest value of B: C ratio, grain protein content and nutrient uptake were obtained with mechanical transplanting but it was found at par with hand transplanting. Highest plant height, dry matter, grain yield and net return were recorded with hand transplanting which was found at par with mechanical transplanting, so this treatment could be an efficient alternative method to produce high yield and income as compare to hand transplanting, particularly under labour constrained conditions.

2 tables, 13 ref

009204   Mavarkar N S;Chaithanya;Pavan A S (Agronomy Dep, College of Agriculture, UAHS, Shivamogga) : Effect of liquid fertilizers on yield, nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency of rainfed hybrid maize (Zea mays L.). Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 573-8.

The field experiment conducted on "Effect of liquid fertilizers on rainfed hybrid maize (zea mays L.) on yield, nutrient uptake and nutrient use efficiency" at the Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Bavikere revealed that significantly higher grain yield (83.99 q ha^{-1) and stover yield (183.38 q ha-1) was recorded with the application of nutrients as per POP + 18:18:18 @ 1.0% + Multi-K @ 1.5%. The available nitrogen was significantly influenced by liquid fertilizers. However, significantly higher available nitrogen (286.2 kg ha-1), available phosphorous (30.4 kg ha-1) and higher available Potassium (191.8 kg ha-1) was recorded in the treatments involving application of nutrients as per POP + 18:18:18 @ 1.0% + Multi-K @ 1.5%. Significantly higher apparent crop nitrogen recovery efficiency (12.32%) and apparent crop potassium recovery efficiency (99.99%) was recorded with the application of nutrients as per POP + 18:18:18 @ 1.0% + Multi-K @ 1.5%. Significantly apparent crop phosphorus recovery efficiency (13.18%) was recorded in the treatment involving POP + 18:18:18 @ 1.0% + Multi-K @ 1.0%. It is concluded that to get maximum productivity, higher nutrient uptake and higher nutrient use efficiency from rainfed hybrid maize in Southern Transition Zone of Karnataka the crop should be fertilized with RDF + FYM @ 7.5 t ha-1 + ZnSO₄ @ 10kg ha-1 (POP) + 18:18:18 @ 1.0% + Multi-K @ 1.5%.}

2 tables, 11 ref

009203   Mavarkar N S;Basavaraj Naik T B;Naik K P S; Sharanappa H G (Agronomy Dep, UAHS, Shivamogga, Karanataka) : Effect of organic source of nutrients on groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under southern transitional zone of Karnataka. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 567-71.

A field experiment was conducted at Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, University of Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences, Bhavikere, Kamataka to study the influence of organic source of nutrients on yield of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) under rainfed condition. The soil was red clay loam with low in available nitrogen, medium in available phosphorus and potassium. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with involving twelve treatments which were replicated thrice. Pod and haulm yields of groundnut was significantly higher (2304 kgha^{-1 and 2695 kg ha-1, respectively) with application of FYM (7.51 ha-1) + Rhizobium + PSB + Panchagavya spray (3% at 30, 60 and 75 DAS) as compared to pod and haulm yield obtained from rest of the treatments except application of FYM (7.5 t ha-1) + Rhizobium + PSB + Jeevamruta (equivalent to 25 kg N ha-) (2249 kg ha-1 and 2620 kg ha-1, respectively). Significantly lowest pod and haulm yield (1413 kg ha-1 and 2071 kgha-1, respectively) was obtained with the application of FYM(7.5 tha-1) alone. Combined application of FYM (7.5 t ha-1) + Rhizobium + PSB + Panchagavya spray (3% at 30, 60 and 75 DAS) increased matured pods per plant, 100 kernel weight, shelling per cent and sound mature kernel per cent and quality parameters like oil and protein yield (kg ha-), oil content (%) and protein content (%) when compared with other treatments.}

3 tables, 12 ref

009202   Mangal M;Hussain Z (Vegetable Science Div, ICAR-IARI, Pusa Campus, New Delhi-110 012, Email: manishsamangal@rediffmail.com) : Validation of markers for late blight resistance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 849-55.

Marker assisted breeding has been widely and successfully used for selecting desirable traits including disease resistance by identifying genetic markers that are linked to specific genes/alleles or combination of multiple resistance genes/allele. Late blight, caused by the oomycete Phytophthora infestans (Mont.) de Bary, is a devastating disease frequently leading to severe crop losses. A number of workers have reported various molecular markers linked to the genes for resistance to late blight in tomato. Many markers have not been not validated across tomato genotypes, thus greatly reducing their utility in crop improvement programs. During presmt investigations 40 markers comprising 15 SSRs, 2 dominant markers, one SCAR marker and 22 CAPS markers reported by different workers were screened on five tomato lines out of which one line CLN3241H was carrying gene for resistance to late blight (Ph3) and four were susceptible lines. Twenty markers including twelve CAPS markers, two dominant markers, six SSRs and one SCAR markers, located in close vicinity of PhS genes could, be validated on the lines under study.

1 illus, 1 table, 17 ref

009201   Mallaiah B;Rao V K (Plant Pathology Dep, PJTSAU, Agricultural Research Station, Karimnagar-Telangana-505 001, Email: mallyagrico@gmail.com) : Integrated management of dry root rot of greengram [Vigna radiate(L.) Wilczek] incited by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) goid. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 607-14.

Greengram (Vigna radiate L.) Wilczek is one of the important pulse crops grown in India and the crop is incited by a number of diseases. Dry root rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is an important disease causing maximum yield losses. The biocontrol agents along with neem fomiulatios were tested individually and in combinations for their effectiveness against root rot of greengram. In vitro studies on the effect of certain fungal (Trichoderma viride, T. harzianum, T. reesei, GHodadium virens) bacterial antagonists(Pseudomonanfluorescens, Bacillus subtilis) showed that T. viride is more effective in inhibiting the pathogen (70%). Among the bacterial antagonists P.fluorescens was found significantly more effective in inhibiting the test pathogen(63.7%). Similarly, studies on in vitro effect of neem based commercial formulations viz., Starneem and Neem gold, Starneem was found to be more effective. In pot culture studies combined seed treatment with T. viride @ 4g/kg, P.fluorescens Wg/kg, Neem oil 3ml/kg and thiram 3g/kg seed was found to be highly effective in increasing seedling emergence(91.3%), plant dry weight (98.6%), shoot lemgth (73.9%) and root length (70.8%). Seed treatment with all four combinations was found to be superior in reducing dry root rot incidence (87.8%).

6 tables, 38 ref

009200   Mallaiah B;Rao V K (Plant Pathology Dep, PJTSAU, Agricultural Research Station, Karimnagar - Telangana-505 001, Email: mallyagrico@gmail.com) : Survey and virulence studies on dry root rot of greengram [Vigna radiate (L.) Wilczek] incited by Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi.) goid. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 521-7.

Greengram (Vigna radiate L.) Wilczek is one of the important pulse crops grown in India and the crop is incited by a number of diseases. Dry root rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is an important disease causing yield losses up to 25 per cent. Survey conducted on the incidence of dry root rot in eight major greengram growing mandals of Chittoor district, A.P. indicated occurrence of dry root rot incidence in all the farmers fields surveyed and the incidence ranged from 5.7 to 12 per cent with low and high incidence in Pileru and Chinnagottigallu mandals, respectively. Among the three soil types surveyed, high (11.1%) while low (4.2%) incidences of dry root rot was recorded in sandy loam and clay soils respectively. Greengram cv. ML-267 recorded high dry root rot incidence (11%) while incidence was low (4.8%) in local cultivars. Virulence studies indicated an incolum level of 7 per cent (w/w) was found to be optimum infection threshold level of test pathogen, M. phaseolina with greengram cv. ML-267 in steam sterilized sandy loam soil.

4 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

009199   Mali H;Choudhary J;Anil Kumar;Singh A;Chopra R (Agronomy Dep, Rajasthan College of Agriculture, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture, Udaipur, Rajasthan) : Growth, quality and yield of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) as influenced by varieties and precision nutrient management practices. J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(3), 35-41.

The study was conducted to evaluate the effect of barley varieties and precision nutrient management practices on growth, quality and yield at Udaipur (Rajasthan) during Rabi 2014-15 and 2015-16. The experiment was consisted 15 treatment combinations, comprising of three varieties (RD 2035, RD 2552 and RD 2786) and five precision nutrient management practices. On pooled basis, varieties RD 2552 and RD 2035 recorded significantly higher net assimilation rate over RD 2786 during 2014-15. During both the years, days to 50 per cent heading and maturity were 8 and 2 days earlier in the variety RD 2035 as compared to RD 2786 and RD 2552. The pooled results showed 10.64 and 4.83 per cent increased grain yield in variety RD 2552 over RD 2035 and RD 2786, respectively. Application of 70 per cent of recommended N and full P₂O₅ and K₂O as basal + Green Seeker based N top dressing (PNMP₄) and STCR based nutrient management (PNMP₅) significantly improve chlorophyll content at 30 and 60 DAS, protein content in grain. on pooled basis STCR based nutrient management (PNMP₅) recorded 23.33, 16.20 and 10.66 per cent higher grain yield over RDF- half N, full P₂O₅ and K₂O as basal + remaining half N before first irrigation (PNMP₂), RDF- half N, full P₂O₅ and K₂O as basal + remaining half N before first irrigation (PNMP1) and 50 per cent of recommended N, full P₂O₅ and K₂O as basal + Green Seeker based N top dressing (PNMP3), respectively.

7 tables, 30 ref

009198   Mahimasanthi A;Daniel A G K;Sivaprasad V (NO, Central Sericultural Research and Training Institute (CSRTI), Central, Srirampura, Mysore-570 008) : Extent of adoption of drought management technologies in mulberry sericulture in southern dry zone of Tamil Nadu. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 95-102.

Mulberry cultivation and Silk worm rearing in several Sericultural clusters in the South India are severely affected by drought. Drought besides reducing mulberry yield also leads to silkworm partial or total crop losses quantitatively and also qualitatively. Study was conducted with the sericulture farmers of southern dry agro climatic zone of Tamil Nadu to find out the extent of adoption of drought management technologies in the mulberry garden and silkworm rearing. The farmer's wise adoption index was calculated for 30 identified drought management technologies. The study revealed that 92 percent of the farmers were low adopters and 8 percent of the farmers were medium adopters. The age and experience of the sericulturists were positively correlated with the adoption index but the size of the land holding was negatively correlated. The adoption index was also positively correlated with the number of silkworm layings reared and the average silk cocoon yield obtained by the farmers. Among the 30 technologies selected for the study, 60 percent of technologies have low level of adoption, 3.3 percent have medium level of adoption and 36.67per'cent of technologies have high level of adoption. The technologies in silkworm feeding, hanging of wet gunny cloths, increasing feeding frequency, mulberry leaf harvest and preservation were highly adopted by the farmers. Adoption gap for individual technologies is also worked out. Even though water shortage is the main constraint in these areas farmers do not take up any steps to cope up the situation. Hence the study suggests for taking suitable efforts to increase the awareness and bridge the adoption gaps to increase the quality linked silk production in the drought areas also.

2 illus, 4 tables, 21 ref

009197   Mahapatra S;Mudi N;Das S (Plant Pathology Dep, Hooghly Krishi Vignan Kendra, B.C.K.V. Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, Email: sunitamahapatra@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of varieties, levels of nitrogen and meteorological factors on severity of foliar blight of barley caused by Helminthosporium sativum under irrigated and rainfed conditions in field. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 173-83.

A field experiment was conducted from 2011-2012 and 2012-13 during winter seasons at AB block farm of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya at Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal to study the effect of three different levels of nitrogen (40, 60, 80 kg/ha) on three different varities (RD 2552, Azad and NDB 1173) against severity of foliar blight of barky and yield under irrigated and rainfed conditions and the effect of meteorological factors on disease progression in the above treatments. The result showed that maximum foliar blight severity was estimated on rainfed condition and minimum in irrigated condition irrespective of varieties and nitrogen levels. Result also showed that with increasing nitrogen dose, disease severity decreased and maximum in low nitrogen level (N ₄₀) in both irrigated and rainfed conditions. Nitrogen level and varieties interaction on irrigated and rainfed condition showed minimum disease (% DLA) with maximum pain yield in RD 2552 with high N level (N₈₀) significantly at par with Azad in same N level in irrigated condition Areas maximum disease with low grain yield in NDB1173 with low nitrogen level (N₄₀). Individual correlation coefficient with disease severity showed that, among the 10 meteorological factors VP, T_min, Wv, RH_min and BSH were significantly positively or negatively correlated with disease severity under both irrigated and rainfed condition for all the varieties in different nitrogen levels. Among the two growth functions Logistic and Gompertz, Gompertz was fit better for linearising the disease severity in comparison to logistic and it was confirmed by high correlation coefficient value (r).

10 illus, 3 tables, 11 ref

009196   Mahapatra S (Plant Pathology Dep, Survey Selection & Mass production Unit, Directorate of Research, B.C., Mohanpur, Nadia, West Bengal, Email: sunitamahapatra@yahoo.co.in) : Effect of fungicides and meteorological factors on severity of rust and Tikka disease of groundnut in field. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 221-8.

Groundnut is one of the important oilseed in India as well as in West Bengal next to mustard. Among the various reasons attributed to low productivity, diseases are major constraint and most important fungal foliar diseases are tikka disease and rust caused by Cercospora arachidicola & Phaeoisariopsis personata and Puccinia arachidis respectively and caused loss of 53% pod yield and 27% kemal weight depending upon the environmental condition. Several fungicides were used by the farmers indiscriminately and due to regular use of same fungicides the pathogen developed resistance. So to combat these problems a new premix fungicides formulation consist of Azoxystrobin 7.5% + Propiconazole 12.5% SE was evaluated with single of these to fungicides (Azoxystrobin 7.5% and Propiconazole 12.5% SE) andcheck Tebuconazole 25.9% EC infield against these diseases. The field trial was conducted during Kharif & Rabi seasons of 2015, laidout on RBD with 7 treatments and four replications. Uniform Plant Populations were maintained and three sprays of each chemicals with desired concentrations were given starting from 40DAS at 10 days interval. The result showed that premixture of Azoxystrobin 7.5% + Propiconazole 12.5% SE @ (65.62+109.38g a.i./ha and 75+125g a.i. /ha) significantly reduced both the diseases (8.75% & 8.70% for tikka and 9.16% & 9.20% for rust) and increased yield 20.75 and 21.25 qha^{-1 respectively in comparison to untreated control. Rate of spread of the diseases were also low in fungicide applications and minimum in premixture fungicides Azoxystrobin 7.5% + Propiconazole 12.5% SE @ 75+125 g a.i./ha and 65.62+109.38 g a.i./ha respectively. Maximum temperature, maximum relative humidity and bright sunshinehours(BSH), Vapour pressure evening, soil temperature and total rainfall were the main meteorological factors for disease progression of leaf spot and rust disease of ground nut.}

3 tables, 14 ref

009195   Mahajan R V;Bhale V M;Deshmukh J P;Shingrup P V;Patil S P (NO, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola-441 104, Email: ram9962@gmail.com) : Effect of foliar nutrition of seaweed sap on growth and yield of greengram. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 601-5.

Research was conducted at the Research farm of Department of Agronomy, Dr. PDKV, Akola. (MS) during the kharif season 2013-14 to study the effect of foliar nutrition of seaweed sap on growth and yield of grengram. Experiment comprised of seven treatments of marine algal sap (Kappaphycus and Gracilaria spp.) combination of recommended dose of fertilizer with three levels of seaweed sap concentrations i.e. 5%, 10% and 15% and replicated thrice. Treatments consist, T₁ control (No application of marine algal sap), T₂:K-sap @ 5%, T₃:K-sap @ 10%, T₄:K-sap @ 15%, T₅:G-sap @ 5%, T₆:G-sap @ 10% and T₇:G-sap @ 15%. The data indicated that, foliar application of seaweed saps significantly influenced various growth parameter, yield attributes and yield of blackgram. The results revealed that foliar spraying G-sap @ 15% (T₇), recorded highest growth parameter i.e. plant height, number branches, leaf area, root length, rood nodule and dry matter production. Yield attributes i.e. number of pods (14.98), pod weight (7.35 g), grain weight per plant (3.93 g) were found significantly highest with foliar spraying of G-sap @ 15% (T₇) compared to other treatments. Similarly, maximum biological yield i.e. grain yield (1150 kg ha^{-1) and straw yield (2255 kg ha-1) were recorded with same foliar applied treatment i.e. G-sap @ 15% (T₇) followed by K-sap @ 15% (T₄, G-sap @ 10% (T₆) and K-sap @ 10% (T₃). Percent increase of grain yield was (38.72%) over control.}

2 tables, 20 ref

009194   Mahajan R V;Bhale V M;Deshmukh J P;Patil S P; Shingrup P V (Agronomy Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola-444 104, Email: ram9962@gmail.com) : Effect of foliar spraying seaweed sap on the phenolgical, biochemical and yield of blackgram. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 595-9.

Experiment was conducted to find out effect of foliar spraying seaweed sap on phenological, biochemical and yield of blackgram at Research farm of Department of Agronomy, Dr. PDKV, Akola. (MS) during the kharifseason 2013-14. The experiment was conducted by adopting randomized block design with three replications. Treatments consisted of six combinations of seaweed sap i. e. Kappaphycus spp. (K-sap) and Gracilaria spp. (G-sap) and one control, namely FS₀: (No application of seaweed sap, RDF common is applied), FS₁:K-sap @ 5% + RDF, FS₂:K-sap @ 10% + RDF, FS₃:K-sap @ 15% + RDF,FS₄:G-sap @ 5%+ RDF, FS₅:G-sap @ 10% + RDF and FS₆:G-sap @15%+ RDF. Chosen treatments were imposed at peak vegetative stage (20-25 DAS) and ten days after the first foliar spray (35 DAS) at different concentration (0,5%, 10% and 15%). Investigations were undertaken to document the foliar application of G-sap @ 15% (F₆) recorded highest phenological parameter viz., plant height, number of branches, leaf area, root length and dry matter production. Similarly, maximum value of biochemical constituent i.e. chlorophyll content (a, b and total) and carotenoids content noted in foliar application of G-sap @ 15% (F₆) at flowering, fruiting and pod development stage of blackgram over control. Yield attributes i.e. number of pods, pod weights and grain weight and grain yield also be recorded with foliar application of G-sap @ 15% (F₆. The grain yield was enhanced by 25.53% with foliar spraying of G-sap @ 15% (1218 kg/ha) than the control. However it was at par with K-sap @ 15% + RDF (FS₃), G-sap @ 10% (FS₅) and K-sap 10% + RDF (FS₂) at flowering, fruiting and pod developments stage.

3 tables, 17 ref

009193   Magar V G;Magar P G;Bankar P B;Haldavnekar P C (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi, Vidyapeeth, Dapoli-415 712, Email: magarvaishu@gmail.com) : Evaluation of F₄ progenies of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) for yield and yield attributes under konkan agroclimatic conditions. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 199-205.

An experiment was carried out at the Educational Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli (M. S.) to evaluate fifty brinjal genotypes. From the present study, it could be concluded that most of the yield and yield contributing characters fruit parameters were significantly varied. Progenies; 56,57, 60, 62, 64, 72, 66, 72-1, 79, 88-2 and 100 had noticed more yield per plant than the general mean under Konkan agro climatic conditions. While, progenies 63, 77, 80, 81, 56-2, 99, 84, 83, 74, 80-2, 81-2, 87-2, 99-1 and 99-3 had desirable fruit characters with better market acceptability, further, it was observed that all these progenies were found tolerant to bacterial wilt. Thus, on the basis of plant architecture, yield and yield contributing characters, fruit parameters, consumer preference and tolerance to bacterial wilt, 25 promising progenies were selected for further study in F'₅ generation.

3 tables, 12 ref

009192   Magar V G;Haldavnekar P C;Parulekar Y R; Lajurkar V G (Horticulture Dep, College of Agriculture, Dapoli, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli-415 712, Email: magarvaishu@gmail.com) : Study of growth parameters and flowering behavior of F₄ progenies of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) under konkan agroclimatic conditions. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 207-10.

The field investigation was conducted at the Educational Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli (M.S.) during the rabi season of the year 2012-2013. The fifty treatments comprising 50 F₄ progenies of brinjal were replicated twice in Randomized Block Design. From the present study, it could be concluded that most of the growth parameters and flowering characters were significantly varied. Further, it was observed that all these progenies were found tolerant to bacterial wilt. Thus, on the basis of plant architecture, consumer preference and tolerance to bacterial wilt, 25 promising progenies were selected for further study in F₅ generation.

2 tables, 8 ref

009191   Madhuri V;Rishi S (Environment and Vocational Studies Dep, Punjab Univ, Chandigarh, Email: venus.jun25@gmail.com) : Irrigation groundwater quality for agricultural usability: a case study of four blocks of district Sangrur, Punjab, India. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 59-67.

In agricultural settings, groundwater quality is of great significance in the district Sangrur, Punjab as it is the main source of regional irrigation. Over dependence on groundwater for irrigation has led to declining groundwater tables, salinization and sodification. For assessing groundwater quality for agricultural usability, a hydro chemical investigation wns conducted in four blocks of district Sangrur by collecting 200 groundwater samples forpremonsoon and postinonsoon season in year 2008. The analytical data was processed and interpreted as per standard laboratory methods by APHA. The water samples were characterized for various irrigation water quality parameters. According to U.S.S.L Classification 74.50% (premonsoon) and 97% (postmonsoon) of samples fell in the category of C₃ - S₁ (high salinity and low sodicity). 55% samples (premonsoon) and 86% samples (postmonsoon) were having value of Kelley's ratio above 1 which is unsuiTable for irrigation. High EC, Percent Sodium, Magnesium Hazards at a number of subareas clearly indicated the non-suitability of groundwater for irrigation except for a few locations and it may deteriorate in future, as is evident from the high percentage of samples falling beyond the desirable limits. Therefore, optimum management of irrigation groundwater has become absolutely necessary for sustainable agriculture.

7 illus, 10 tables, 19 ref

009190   Kumawat R;Shekhawat K S;Kumawat K (Plant Pathology Dep, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner, Email: rekha.kumawat25@gmail.com) : Effect of different abiotic environmental factors and host age on development of fenugreek powdery mildew (Erysiphe polygoni). Ann agric Res 2016, 37(4), 424-8.

Powdery mildew of fenugreek is an important and serious disease especially during flowering and pod formation stage of the crop. The study was conducted to determine the factors affecting infection of fenugreek by Erysiphe polygoni under controlled conditions. Maximum per cent disease intensity by Erysiphe polygoni was recorded at 24°C, there was significant increase in per cent disease intensity with increase in temperature from 15°C to 24°C and further decreased at 27°C temperature. 90 per cent relative humidity closely followed by 80 per cent relative humidity and 10.14 hours of darkness and light recorded maximum per cent disease intensity. All the levels of darkness and light were found significant in influencing disease intensity. It was observed that with the increase in light hours, the per cent disease intensity increased. It was concluded that darkness condition is stimulatory decrease disease intensity. When plant inoculated at flowering stage (45 days old) recorded maximum per cent disease intensity.

4 tables, 11 ref

009189   Kumawat D K;Kumawat R C;Jheeba S S (Agricultural Economics Dep, S.K.N. College of Agriculture, Jobner, Jaipur-302 028, Email: deepakumarikumwat@gmail.com) : Growth rates and instability in area, production and productivity of fenugreek in the state of Rajasthan. Ann agric Res 2016, 37(4), 445-52.

Examined through a growth and instability in area, production and productivity of fenugreek in the state of Rajasthan. Study confined to major fenugreek growing districts of Rajasthan. The data were collected for the period 1985-86 to 2012-13 and analysed by using exponential production function and instability index. All the selected districts showed significant growth rate in their production. The area, production and productivity recorded no particular growth trend during different FYPs. The magnitude of instability in production of fenugreek crop was due to high instability in area than productivity. Yield variance was the major source of variance in production.

6 tables, 10 ref

009188   Kumari R;Kumar P;Sharma V K;Kumar H (Agricultural Biotechnology and Molecular Biology Dep, Faculty of Basic Sciences and Humanities Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central A, Pusa-848 125, Email: rimakumari1989@gmail.com) : In vitro seed germination and seedling growth for salt tolerance in rice cultivars. J Cell Tissue Res 2016, 16(3), 5905-10.

Six selected cultivars of rice namely BPT-5204, MTU-7029, CSR-30, Narendra Usar Dhan-3, Rajendra Bhagwati and Pusa Basmati-1 were screened for salinity tolerance on the basis of in vitro seed germination and seedling growth under different salt stress (0-2.5%) created by a salt mixture of NaCl, CaCl₂, and Na₂SO₄ in 7:2:1 ratio. At 2% salt stress, germination was only observed in cultivars CSR-30 and Narendra Usar Dhan-3, while at 2.5% no seed germination was observed. The frequency of seed germination gradually decreased with increasing concentrations of salt stress. As observed with seed germination, seedling growth was also adversely affected with the increase of salt concentrations. The shoot growth was more affected than the root growth. The salt tolerance index (STI) of the rice cultivars was calculated on the basis of seed germination, seedling shoot and root dry weights at different levels of salt stress. Cultivars CSR-30 and Narendra Usar Dhan-3 were found to be salt tolerant, cvs. MTU-7029 and BPT-5204 moderately salt tolerant and cvs. Rajendra Bhawati and Pusa Basmati-1 as salt susceptible respectively on the basis of STI. Thus in vitro study can be used for evaluation of salinity tolerance of rice cultivars.

4 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

009187   Kumargoud V;Udhayakumar R;Deshpande S;Pattar S (Agricultural Engineering Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bangalore, Email: vkgouda@gmail.com) : Studies on seed expulsion practices of tamarind in rural parts of Karnataka state. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 621-4.

Tamarind is an economically important multipurpose spice which is grown both as domesticated spice in farmland and as wild in forest lands. Tamarind fruits can be processed in the variety of food products of commercial importance. The knowledge about physical properties and traditional method of post-harvest operations are very important for designing processing equipments. Based on the study conducted in two tamarind growing districts of Karnataka state, itwas concluded that seventy six per cent of the farmers employed hired labours for seed expulsion and only twenty four percent family members helps in seed expulsion operation. Further 92 per cent farmers expressed their desire to develop power operated tamarind seed expeller. Native variety of tamarind has chosen for study. The shape of the fruits categorized into straight, curved and mixed. The traditional methods of dehulling, deseeding and deferring operations were evaluated by engaging men and women labourers of different age groups. Middle aged men and women labourers (31-50 years) performed better in seed expulsion as compared to other age-group labourers. However, more amount of mechanical damage of pulp and seed was noticed with young men and women labourers (15-30 years) during deseeding operation.

5 tables, 4 ref

009186   Kumargoud V;Udhayakumar R;Deshpande S;Pattar S (Agricultural Engineering Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, GKVK, Bangalore, Email: vkgouda@gmail.com) : Studies on engineering properties of tamarind fruit. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 615-19.

The knowledge about physical properties of any biological material is essential to design its equipment for processing, storage, transportation and Value addition. Investigation were carried out at Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru to find out the physical and engineering properties like, length, width, thickness, volume, density, coefficient of friction, angle of repose. The average length, breadth and thickness of tamarind fruit were found to be 9.32 cm, 2.17 cm and 1.25 cm respectively in curved fruits. The average weight, volume, bulk density, angle of repose and co-efficient of friction was found to be 20.30 g, 19 cm^{2, 251.60 kg/m3, 47°C and 0.84 respectively in curved fruits.}

2 tables, 9 ref

009185   Kshirsagar D B;Shinde S R;Bhalekar M N; Ranpise S A (Horticulture Dep, MPKV, Rahuri) : Effect of mulching on growth, yield, pest and disease incidence in summer tomato. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 81-3.

The effect of mulching on growth, yield, pest and disease incidence was studied in the summer season at Tomato Improvement Scheme, Department of Horticulture MPKV Rahuri. Significant differences in respect to growth, yield, pest and disease incidence as well as average weight of fruit average, height of plant, no. of branches, no. of fruits per plant, yield per plant and yield per hectare were observed. The treatment T₁ (Black and silver polythene ) recorded significantly maximum height of plant (134.06cm) number of branches (6.66), average fruit weight (92.33g), number of fruit per plant (24.32), yield per plant (2.12kg) and yield per hectare, (73.62t/ha). The minimum incidence of average number of white fly per leaves at 60 DAT (3.80) average number of thrips per leaves at60DAT(2.77) and minimum disease incidence of leaf curl (3.32%) and spotted wilt (2.00%)were observed in treatment T₁ (Black and silver polythene).

2 tables, 13 ref

009184   Khurana K;Kahlon M S (Soil Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: dr.mskahlon@rediffmail.com) : Effect of tillage practices and irrigation regimes on soil profile moisture distribution and maize (Zea mays L.) growth. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 103-12.

Irrigation regimes in relation to tillage practices significantly affect soil profile moisture distribution and crop growth parameters such as plant height, relative leaf water content, chlorophyll content and stover yield. Hence, a study was conducted with three irrigation regimes i.e. IW/PAN-E 0.6, 0.9 and 1.2 (I_0.6I_0.9 and I_1.2) and four tillage practices i.e. no-tillage with residue (NT), strip tillage (ST), conventional tillage (CT), deep tillage (DT). At 80 DAS, maximum soil profile moisture storage (cm) was recorded in NT (23.1) followed by ST (20.1), CT (19.4) and DT (18.9). The least e_v was observed in I_0.6as compared to other irrigation regimes (I_0.9 and I_1.2). At harvest, e_v decreased considerably and it ranged from 5.8-11.3% throughout the soil profile among different irrigation regimes. The frequently irrigated regime (I_1.2) stored more moisture than other two regimes due to more number of irrigation applied. At harvest, maximum soil moisture storage was observed at I_1.2 (11.6) followed I_0.9 (10.7) and least under I_0.6 (9.9). The plant height in NT treatment (276.0) was significantly greater than other tillage treatments. The highest chlorophyll content was observed in ST (54.2) followed by DT (52.9), NT (52.8) and CT (51.0). No significant differences in RLWC were reported among different tillage practices and irrigation regimes. The DT (11.6 Mg ha^{-1) showed significantly higher stover yield followed by ST (11.3 Mg ha-1), NT (10.2 Mg ha-2) and CT (9.5 Mg ha-1). Likewise tillage practices, irrigation regimes also experienced a significant effect on maize stover yield. The mean highest maize stover yield was found under I_1.2 (11.8 Mg ha-1)}

4 illus, 5 tables, 24 ref

009183   Khippal A;Kharub A;Dinesh Kumar;Verma A; Sanjeev Kumari;Yogesh Kumar (NO, ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal, Haryana, Email: anilkhippal@gmail.com) : Pinoxaden in combination with other herbicides against complex weed flora in barley. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 805-9.

Field experiments were conducted during 2014-15 and 2015-16 at New Research Farm of ICAR-Indian Institute of Wheat and Barley Research, Karnal. The treatment comprising individual application of pinoxaden and isoproturan in combination with metsidfuron/carfentrazone/2,4- D or alone. In addition weedy check and weed free plots were also maintained. The major weeds present in experimental site were Phalaris minor (Mandusi/Kanki), Anagallisarvensis (Krishna neel), Chenopodium album (bathua), Melilotusindica (senji), Rumexdentatus, Polypogonmonspeliensis and Coronopusdidymus (pith papda). Among herbicide treatments the grain yield was at par when pinoxaden @ 40g ha^{-1 followed by metsidfuron @ 4g ha-1 and tank mixing ofpinoxaden with carfentrazone or metsulfuron. The grain yield reduction due to weeds was 37.7 percent as compared to weed free conditions. Combined application of pinoxaden with metsidfuron-methyl/carfentrazone (as tank mixed or as followed by) resulted in significantly lower total weed density and weed biomass. Among herbicides, weed control efficiency (89.7%), weed control index (88.4%) and herbicide efficiency index (4.11%) were highest when pinoxaden @ 40g ha-1 followed by metsulfuron @ 4g ha-1 were applied to control weeds whereas; weed index (37.74%) was highest in weedy check. Hectolitre weight and bold grain per cent were at par with weed free conditions when pinoxaden @ 40g ha-1 followed by metsulfuron @ 4g ha-1 and the tank mixed pinoxaden with broad-leaved herbicides was applied.}

4 tables, 12 ref

009182   Kavita Kumari;Dass A;Sudhishri S;Meena M C; Jinger D;Anil Kumar;Sanjeev Kumar (NO, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Pusa, New Delhi-110 012, Email: hppersoya.p@gmail.com ) : Root-shoot characteristics, yield and soil nitrogen status under different irrigation and nitrogen levels in maize (Zea mays L.). Ann agric Res 2016, 37(4), 383-90.

A field experiment was conducted at ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, during the rainy season of 2015 on sandy loam soil with maize hybrid PEEHM 5 to study the effects of variable irrigation regimes and nitrogen (N) rates on root-shoot characteristics, yield and soil fertility status. The experiment was laid-out in a three-time replicated split-plot design. The treatments consisted of 24-combinations of 3-irrigation regimes: irrigation at 25% depletion of available soil moisture (DASM), irrigation at 75% DASM and no-irrigation (rainfed condition) allotted to mainplots and eight N-rates: control, 40, 80, 120, 160, 200, 240 and 300 kg N ha-1 to sub-plots. Irrigation at 25% DASM resulted in significantly higher plant height at tasseling and maturity stages, dry matter accumulation both at knee-high (KH) and tasseling stages, biological yield, harvest index and soil available N compared to water-stressed conditions. However, water-stressed rainfed crop recorded the highest root dry weight. With regard to N-effects, it was found that plant height, dry matter accumulation measured at pre-and post-N top-dressing during KH stage increased upto 160 kg N ha-1, while at tasseling stage increase in these plant parameters was significant only upto 120 kg N ha-1. At KH stage 160 kg N ha-1, whereas at tasseling 120 kg N ha-1, recorded the highest root dry weight. Treatment combination irrigation at 75% DASM and 300 kg N ha-1 recorded the highest N-availability in soil.

4 tables, 20 ref

009181   Kamlesh Kumar;Ashok Kumar;Rana K S;Jat S L; Rajesh Kumar;Arvind Kumar (NO, ICAR-IARI, New Delhi-110 012) : Effect of different doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen on growth, development and N, P and K concent in grain and straw of maize (Zea mays L.). Ann agric Res 2016, 37(4), 397-401.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2013 at New Delhi to study the growth and development behavior and N, P and K content in grain and straw of PMH-3 variety of maize under different doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with fourteen combinations of nitrification inhibitors (Dicyandiamide, neem oil and meliacin) each with two different concentration and two levels of nitrogen (135 and 180 kg/ha). The growth parameters viz. plant height, leaf area index and dry weight of plant were significantly affected by different doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen. Taller plants with higher dry weight of plant were obtained with the application of MCU350@180 whereas higher leaf area index was observed with MCU700@180 compared to other doses of nitrification inhibitors and varying levels of nitrogen. Highest mean crop growth rate was observed with the application of MCU350@180, while the different doses of nitrification inhibitor were failed to achieve any significant mean relative growth rate of maize at different stages of maize plant. MCU350@N180 accumulated maximum nitrogen in grain and stover and these values were significantly higher over urea application @ 180kg N/ha and other nitrification inhibitors at reduced dose of nitrogen i.e. (135 kg N/ha).

3 tables, 8 ref

009180   Kahlon M S;Khera K L (Soil Science Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004) : Effect of irrigation methods and regimes on maize (Zea mays L.) growth. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 245-8.

Different irrigation methods and regimes affect maize (Zea Mays L.) growth differently. The field experiment was conducted to study the interactive effect of three irrigation methods and three irrigation regimes on maize growth under sandy loam soil at the Research Farm of Department of Soil Science, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. The irrigation methods includes drip, furrow and ridge while, the three irrigation regimes includes IW/PAN-E ratio of 1,0, 1,25 and 1.5 under furrow and ridge and 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4 under drip irrigation. The maize plant height (cm) was observed to be more under drip irrigated plots (251.4) followed by furrow irrigated (225.2) and ridge (214.5) irrespective of irrigation regimes. The root length density was observed to be more in surface soil layer (0-10 cm) under drip irrigated beds, while at lower soil depths higher root length density was observed in furrow irrigation. The highest thousand grain weight of 255.0 g was observed in drip irrigated plots followed by furrow irrigated (242.9 g) and ridge method (228.3 g). Irrespective of irrigation methods, highest thousand maize grain weight (g) were recorded at IW/PAN-E ration 13 i.e. 258.1 followed by 12 (241.6) and 11 (226.6). The maize stover yield (t ha^{-1) was also observed to be higher under drip irrigation (13.0) as compared to furrow (11.3) and ridge (9.9) irrigation. Root length density was observed to be higher at surface soil layer under drip irrigation, while the reverse was true under furrow irrigation at sub surface soil layer.}

2 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

009179   Jaya Prabhavathi S;Palaniswamy S;Kuttalam S; Veeraraghavathalham D (Regional Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Vridhachalam, Cuddalore district-606 001, Email: sjayaprabhavathi@gmail.com) : Studies on persistence toxicity of acetamiprid 20 SP as foliar application against aphids and leafhoppers in cotton. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 17-22.

Acetamiprid is an neonicotinoid insecticide, which are highly systemic with long-term persistence. They permanently bind to nicotinic receptors of acetylcholine, blocking them and consequently the passage of nerve impulses. This mode of action allows control of sucking insects feeding on the plant. Laboratory experiments were conducted in the glass house in order to assess the persistent toxicity of acetamiprid 20 SP as foliar application against aphids, Aphis gossypii (Glover) and leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula (Ishida) in cotton with the treatments viz., Acetamiprid 20 SP @ 10,20,40, 80 g a.i./ha, Pride® 20 SP @ 20 g a.i./ha, Monocrotophos 36 SL @ 200 g a.i./ha and Untreated check. The experiment was conducted in a completely randomized block design with four replications. The persistent toxicity of acetamiprid foliar treatments against the aphids and leafhopper was studied using dip on cage and micro cage, respectively. The results of persistent toxicity of acetamiprid, 20 SP as foliar treatment against aphids and leafhoppers on cotton revealed that the chemical persisted for 21 and 19 days at 80 and 40 g a.i./ha, respectively, 15 days for Pride 20 SP and acetamiprid 20 SP @ 20 g a.i./ha and 11 days at 10 g a.i./ha against aphids; 25, 21 days at 80 and 40 g a.i./ha, respectively, 19 days Pride 20 SP and acetamiprid 20 SP at 20 g a.i./ha and 17 days at 10 g a.i./ha against leafhoppers.

2 illus, 2 tables, 14 ref

009178   Jaya Prabhavathi S;Keisar Lourdusamy D; Vincent S;Aneesa Rani M S (Regional Research Station, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Vridhachalam-606 001, Email: sijayaprabhavathi@gmail.com) : Efficacy of curative treatments using insecticides against cashew stem and root borer, Polacederus ferrugenius L. (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae). Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 13-16.

The Cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.) is an important commercial plantation crop with tremendous potential for foreign currencies. The Cashew Stem and Root Borer (CSRB), Plocaederus ferrugineus L. is one of the serious pests of cashew. Tlie tiny grub of CSRB bores into the fresh tissue and feeds on the food channels of phloem and xylem tissues of the trunk and root by making irregular tunnels, resulting in exudation of gum (gummosis) and extrusion of fibrous frass from damaged portion, subsequently lead to death of trees, thereby reducing the tree population. For the management of CSRB, afield experiment was conducted at Regional Research Station, Vridhachalam to find out the efficacy of different curative treatments using insecticides against cashew stem and root borer (CSRB). The different treatments includes Profenofos 50 EC (1%), Chlorpyriphos 50 EC (0.2%), Triazophos 40 EC (0.2%), Dichlorvos 76 EC (0.2%), Untreated check (only removal of CSRB grubs followed) and Treated check (Neem Oil 5%, the most effective treatment under prophylactic trials). Maximum recovery of 46.15% was noted in chlorpyriphos 50 EC (0.2%) treated trees, which was on par with Triazophos 40 EC (0.2%) treated trees with 45.83% recovery. Treatments with profenofos 50 EC (1.0%), and neem oil (5.0%) lead to 40.00 and 35.00% recovery, respectively as against mere 5.5% recovery in untreated control. The overall results indicated that the chlorpyriphos and Triazophos were at par in reducing the CSRB infestation, with an average cost of protection of Rs.62/tree and Rs.63/tree respectively.

1 table, 16 ref

009177   Jahan F;Abbasipour H;Hasanshahi G (Plant Protection Dep, Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Shahed Univ, Tehran, Iran, Email: habbasipour@yahoo.com) : Fumigant toxicity and nymph production deterence effect of five essential oils on adults of the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: aphididae). J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2016, 19(1), 140-7.

The cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae L. is one of the most important pests of Brassicaceae family. Plant essential oils contain compounds that showed ovicidial, repellency (anti-feeding), unproductive and toxic effects on insects. In this research, insecticidal activity and nymph production deterrent of five essential oils was studied on the cabbage aphid in the laboratory conditions under 25 ± 2°C, 65 ± 5% RH and 16L:8D photoperiods. Mortality was evaluated at six different concentrations that ranging from 0.71 to 226.67 μL/L air, and with 6 replications at the interim of 24 hours. The results showed that by increasing dose and time, mortality rate was also increased. The highest and the lowest mortality rate were recorded for Elettaria cardamomum and Citrus sinensis, respectively. Also the highest deterrence percentage is related to LC^{10 for E. cardamomum and the lowest belonged to LC10 for C. sinensis and Cinnamomum zeylanicum. It can be concluded that essential oil of E. cardamomum is an appropriate mix and can be used for control of the cabbage aphid in integrated pest management methods.}

5 tables, 37 ref

009176   Hossain M A;Jashimuddin M;Nath T K;Reilly P O (NO, Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences Chittagong Univ, Chittagong-4311, Chittagong) : Spiny coriander (Eryngium foetidum L.) cultivation in the Chittagong hill tracts of Bangladesh: sustainable agricultural innovation by indigenous communities. Indian J Tradl Knowledge 2017, 16(1), 59-67.

Spiny coriander (Eryngium foetidum L.) is a shade tolerant plant suited to climatic conditions found in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) of Bangladesh and which is intrinsically linked to the culture and traditions of indigenous communities who live in the region. This study, carried out in two villages in the CHT, examined cultivation techniques, productivity, contribution to household income and its role in supporting resilience to climate change. The study adopted a participatory rural appraisal approach; data was collected through focus group discussions, structured interviews and field observation. Sixty five per cent of farmers in the two villages cultivate spiny coriander; the mean plot size was 0.12 ha. The cropping cycle starts in January and continues until October. Production averaged 59, 219 kg per hectare with a net benefit of about US$51,212/ha/yr. Eighty six percent of farmers who cultivate the crop do so solely for the purposes of income generation. Good market demand for the crop means that farmers obtain substantial economic benefit from its cultivation. It also has the potential to build the climate change resilience of marginal farmers. The findings suggest that policies to support the development of this crop have the potential to enhance marginal farmers' financial capability and climate resilience.

4 illus, 4 tables, 28 ref

009175   Hegde M R;Padate V P;Rivonker C U (Marine Sciences Dep, Goa Univ, Taleigao Plateau, Goa-403 206, Email: curivonker@gmail.com) : Seasonal variations in habitat selection and catch trends of Sciaenids (Family: sciaenidae) from the tropical waters off Goa, west coast of India. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(8), 943-51.

Seasonal variations in species composition, habitat selection and catch trends of sciaenids off Goa, west coast of India were investigated for twelve seasons from 2006-2011, with the exceptions of June-September (monsoon). Present observations based on 248 hours fishing effort (186 trawl operations) revealed 14 species of the family Sciaenidae. Sciaenid abundance (α = 0.05, P = 0.03071) and weight (α = 0.05, P = 0.1426) was significantly higher during pre- monsoon than the post- monsoon season with an exception of post-monsoon 2009. Analysis of spatial variation revealed that sciaenid abundance varied significantly (α = 0.05, P = 0.0593) between sandy and rocky habitats with dominance of juveniles and adults respectively. Dominance of juvenile population along sandy regions irrespective of the season indicates perennial recruitment and emphasizes the importance of the near shore sandy regions as potential nursery grounds. An assessment of sciaenid landings of Goa (1969-2004) revealed significant increase (R=0.709) during the initial phase of post-mechanization (1969-1986) due to increase in fishing effort and expansion of the demersal fishery to deeper waters. In contrast, marginal decrease during 1986-2004, despite the elevated fishing effort, suggested reduced resilience of the sciaenid populations in the region towards seasonal hypoxia and sustained fishing pressure, with a slow recovery rate.

6 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

009174   Gupta S K;Ghosh M;Kohli A;Singh Y K;Vimal B K (Agronomy Dep, Bihar Agricultural Univ, Sabour, Email: sanjeevgupta1979@rediffmail.com) : Evaluating the characteristics of contrasting rice varieties for suitability in rainfed lowland areas of Bihar. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 821-6.

Field experimentto evaluate the rice cultivarsfor drought tolerance under rainfed lowland conditions of Biharwas carried out in the Kharifseason of 2014 and 2015 on a silty clay loam soil with low to medium fertility at Agricultural farm of Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour, Bihar. The experiment was laid out in completely randomised block design (RBD) with fivetreatments as drought tolerant rice varieties with four replications. Twenty five days old seedlings were used to transplant at 20cm x 15cm spacing during the third week of July, 2014 and 2015. Among the varieties, there were non-significant differences with respect to normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) values, number of tillers per square meter, number of panicles per square meter and panicle length. The SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) value was increased significantly in RajendraSuwasini (37.8) and was at par with Abhishek (35.9) and CR Dhan-40 (35.6). The plant height of CR Dhan-40 (134.5cm) and RajendraSuwasini (124.3cm) were at par with each other, but significantly greater than other varieties. No significant difference in yield contributing characters namely panicle length, number of panicles per square metre and number of tillers per square meter were found among various varieties. However, number of grains per panicle was found significant among the varieties. The highest number of grains per panicle was found in CR Dhan-40 (224 grains) followed by Sahbhagi Dhan (208 grains). Similarly significant differences were also observed in terms of grain yield and straw yield. The highest grain yield was recorded with Rajendra Suwasini (42.4a/ha) and at par with all other varieties except CR Dhan-40 (39.8q/ha). The highest straw yield was recorded with Abhishek (60.3q/ha) and at par with Rajendra Suwasini (55.7q/ha) and Sushk Samrat (54.6q/ha) respectively. Variety Abhishek recorded highest root length followed by Rajendra Suwasini and Sabour Ardhjalin both years of study.

1 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

009173   Gore A M;Thakare S K;Thakare S H;Deshmukh M M (Farm Power and Machinery Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. P.D.K.V. Akola, Maharashtra) : Effect of speed of operation on droplet size, and droplet density of axial flow blower in air assisted orchard sprayer. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 533-7.

Farmers and fruit growers of developed countries have been using air-assisted spraying system for many years. In India, although air-assisted spraying technique has been employed in some of the hand operated and boom sprayers, air-carrier sprayers capable of spraying vast orchard and tree crops are still aliens to Indian agriculture. As the name implies, an air-assisted sprayer utilizes an air stream to carry the spray droplets onto the target It employs a blower (which is basically a fan) to produce and deliver an air stream of sufficient discharge, velocity and pressure, and introduces the spray fluid into this air stream in the form of fine droplets at high pressures (from a reciprocating pump) at the air outlet. The study has been carried out on the parameter viz. speed of operation which was affecting the droplet size and droplet density of spray. For this study three speed of operation selected (2.5 km/h, 3 km/h, 3.5 km/h).The laboratory testing was carried out at the workshop of ASPEE Agriculture Research Foundation, Mumbai. The minimum value of droplet size at outer canopy (147.5 jum) and inner canopy (147.5 μm) was observed at top position at speed 3.5 km/h while the maximum value of droplet size at outer canopy (198.0 μm) and inner canopy (191.0 μm) was observed at bottom position at speed 2.5 km/ h. The minimum value of droplet density at outer canopy (36.5) and inner canopy (40.9) was observed at bottom position at speed 2.5 km/h while the maximum value of droplet density at outer canopy (59.6) and inner canopy (65.1) was observed at top position at speed 3.5 km/h.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

009172   Gore A M;Thakare S K;Deshmukh M M;Thakare S H (Farm Power and Machinery Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. P.D.K.V. Akola, Maharashtra) : Effect of speed of operation on blower speed, and air velocity of axial flow blower in air assisted orchard sprayer. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 529-32.

As the name implies, an air-assisted sprayer utilizes an air stream to carry the spray droplets onto the target It employs a blower (which is basically a fan) to produce and deliver an air stream of sufficient discharge, velocity and pressure, andintroduces the spray fluid into this air stream in the form of fine droplets at high pressures (from a reciprocating pump) at the air outlet The turbulence of the air stream causes thorough mixing of air and liquid, and this spray laden air proceeds from the sprayer to displace the original air inside the canopy. The turbulent air stream along with the suspended pesticide solution in it causes ruffling action of the foliage and effect impingement of spray droplets on both sides of the leaves, including those in the inner most parts in the canopy. The study has been carried out on the parameter viz. speed of operation which was affecting the air velocity and blower rpm of axial flow blower. For this study three speed of operation selected (2.5 km/h, 3 km/h, 3.5 km/h). The laboratory testing was carried out at the workshop of ASPEE Agriculture Research Foundation, Mumbai. The maximum blower speed was obtained as 2108.1 rpm at the speed of operation 3.5 km/h while the minimum blower speed was obtained as 1594.1 rpm at the speed of operation 2.5 km/h. The maximum air velocity was obtained as 32 m/s at position one and 7.2 m/s at position two at the speed of operation 3.5 km/h while the minimum air velocity was obtained as 22.7 m/s at position one and 4.3 m/s at the speed of operation 2.5 km/h.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

009171   Ghosh M;Neh Kiran;Sharma R P;Gupta S K (Agronomy Dep, Bihar Agricultural Univ, Sabour, Bihar, Email: mainakghosh999@gmail.com) : Need based nitrogen management using SPAD meter in wheat of eastern India. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 811-20.

Spectral properties of leaves are become effective in SPAD (Soil Plant Analysis Development) meter based on light transmittance for guiding real-time N top dressings in wheat. Afield study was conducted to analyze the effect of SPAD based N management on wheat productivity and N use efficiency for sustainability during the dry season of 2013-14 on alluvial belt of eastern India, with twelve combinations of four SPAD threshold (38, 40, 42, and 44) and three N levels (15, 20 and 25 kg N ha^{-1) at each topdressing as real time N management (RTNM), one fixed time N management (FTNM), and control (Zero N) in three replications. Moderate rate (20 kg N ha-1) of N top dressing at high SPAD (S44) produced more grain yield (7.7%) over FTNM. It reduced N requirement by 17.7% from the existing N fertilizer recommendation in FTNM without reducing the grain yield. At moderate rate of N top dressing both medium and high SPAD (S42 and S44) are at par in grain yield production. Moderate rate of N top dressing at medium SPAD increased the Agronomic N use efficiency (AE_N) by 29% over FTNM. The SPAD based N top dressing was found a better option for N management in wheat for increasing yield and N use efficiency. Moderate rate of N topdressing at high SPAD in RTNM recorded the highest gross (79339 Rs, ha-1) and net (51334 Rs. ha-1) returns comparable to those of high N rate at higher SPAD; but markedly greater than those with high N rate at lower and medium SPAD, and control treatment. FTNM though fetched good economic return but incurred higher fertilizer N consumption than required to produce the expected yield. Moderate rate of N topdressing at medium SPAD was found best for precision N management in wheat crop aiming at greater profit with higher N use efficiency.}

4 illus, 2 tables, 43 ref

009170   Ghosal M K;Mohanty S K;Sahoo N;Das R K (Farm Machinery and Power Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, O.U.A.T., Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: mkghosal1@rediffmail.com ) : Solar photovoltaic powered refrigeration. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 229-34.

Providing cooling by utilizing renewable energy such as solar energy is a key solution to the energy and environmental issues. In recent years, scientists have increasingly paid more attention to solar energy. There is a sudden demand in the utilization of solar energy for various applications such as water heating, building heating/cooling, cooking, power generation and refrigeration. Solar refrigeration technology engages a system where solar power is used for cooling purposes. Cooling can be achieved through four basic methods: solar photovoltaic cooling, solar thermo electrical cooling, solar thermo-mechanical cooling, and solar thermal cooling. The first is a photovoltaic (PV) based solar energy system, where solar energy is converted into electrical energy and used for refrigeration much like conventional methods. Out of the above four methods of cooling, solar photovoltaic cooling is gaining more momentum now-a-days due to its easy installation, operation, absence of any thermal process, very little maintenance and long durability. The feasibility in the applications of cooling through solar photovoltaic system has therefore been discussed in this paper through the work undertaken by various researchers.

^iia2 illus, 11 ref

009169   Gavas S;Shirke B;Kulkarni P;Rajpurkar S (NO, D.G.Ruparel College, Senapati Bapat Marg, Mahim, Mumbai-400 016, Email: sagarsgavas@gmail.com) : Illustrative checklist of opisthobranchs from selected beaches of Mumbai. Indian J Geomar Sci 2016, 45(8), 1024-8.

Opisthobranchs are marine slugs belonging to phylum Mollusca. Till date, Mumbai is least studied for opisthobranch biodiversity with very few official reports on opisthobranch fauna. The present study documents a list of opisthobranchs from Mumbai. The opisthobranchs were collected from selected beaches along the Mumbai coast and identified using standard guidelines. Eight species of opisthobranchs belonging to three families were identified. All of these are new records to Mumbai with five species being new records to India. This study is a preliminary data for further investigations, monitoring and conservation of opisthobranch fauna.

2 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

009168   Gaikwad D S;Nage S P;Chavan S D (Animal Husbandry and Dairy Science Dep, Mahatma Phule Krishi Vidyapeeth, Rahuri-413 722, Email: dsgaikwad7@gmail.com) : Effect of supplementation of amla (Emblica officinalis) on growth performance of broilers. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(3), 679-83.

The present investigation was undertaken as "Effect of Supplementation of Amla (Emblica officinalis) on Growth Performance of Broilers" The study was conducted for 42 days, on 150 day old, Vencobb-400 broiler chicks, divided in to three groups (T₁, T₂ and T₃) having 50 birds in each groups. The T₁ birds were fed on a basal ration (Control). The T₂ birds were given 0.5% Amla Powder (AM) and T₃ birds were given 1% Amla Powder (AM) along with the basal ' ration. Body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, feed efficiency, dressing percentage and economic efficiency of the treatments were evaluated. The chicks in T₃ group (1% AM) attained higher body weight at 6th week (2304.53 g), weight gain (502.15), lower feed intake (3832.35 g) better cumulative feed efficiency (1.71), higher economic profit (14.10Rs.). It is concluded that supplementation of 1% Amla Powder enhanced broiler growth and more economic returns without exhibiting any perceptible side effect.

2 tables, 22 ref

009167   Feng L;Li Y;Sheng L;Li T;Zhao D;Tao J (College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Yangzhou Univ, Yangzhou 225009, China, Email: taojun@yzu.edu.cn) : Comparative analysis of headspace volatiles of different herbaceous peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) cultivars. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2016, 19(1), 167-75.

Flower fragrance not only plays an important role for reproduction of ornamental plants, but also improves the aesthetic value of cut flowers and potted plants, the quality of flower products and their economic value. In this study, the floral headspace compounds of different herbaceous peony cultivars were isolated by a headspace solid-phase microextraction, and followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for identification and quantification. Up to 34 volatile compounds were identified from the 21 herbaceous peony cultivars, including 14 terpenes, 9 alcohols, 7 esters, 1 aldehydes, 1 ketones and 2 arenes. Terpenes, alcohols and esters were the major headspace compounds, whereas the main floral constituents identified in herbaceous peony were caryophyllene, β-citronellol and cinnamic acid methyl ester. Paeonia lactiflora 'Zi Rong Xi Yao', Paeonia lactiflora 'Mo Zi Han Jin', Paeonia lactiflora 'Zi Yu Lian' and Paeonia lactiflora 'Xi Xia Ying Xue' had a high total amount of β-citronellol, geraniol, phenylethyl alcohol, nerol and their acetate esters, which were also the major headspace compounds of rose (Rosa rugosa Thunb.), so they could be considered good materials for improving herbaceous peony fragrance and breeding new cultivars with rose-like fragrance.

4 tables, 31 ref

009166   Delfieh M;Modarres-Sanavy S A M;Farhoudi R (Agronomy Dep, Faculty of Agriculture, Tarbiat Modares Univ, Pajouhesh Blvd., Tehran-Karaj Freeway, Iran, Email: modaresa@modares.ac.ir ) : Effects of organic, biologic and chemical nitrogen fertilizers on fennel (Foeniculum vulgare mill.) yield and essential oil. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2016, 19(2), 339-48.

In order to investigate the effects of different nitrogen nutritional systems including chemical, organic and biologic ones on yield and essential oil content, yield and constituents of this valuable medicinal plant, a field experiment was carried out in 2013-2014 agricultural season in completely randomized blocks design. Different nitrogen system treatments consisting of: 1. N₁ or control (Uniformly spreading urea fertilizer in the plot, 50% at planting time and 50% at stem elongation), 2. N₂ (Uniformly spreading 50% of urea fertilizer in the plot at planting time and spraying the other 50% of urea fertilizer at stem elongation on fennel foliage), 3. N₃ or cow manure, 4. N₄ or bio-fertilizer (Inoculation of fennel seeds with Azotobacter and Azospirillum), 5. N₅ or Integrated-1 (Cow manure + uniformly spreading urea fertilizer in the plot at stem elongation), 6. N₆ or Integrated-2 (Cow manure + bio-fertilizer) were applied. Results showed that urea spraying has led to 13.4% more seed yield production than control with 3.28% essential oil content which was as well as control. Moreover, the findings showed that replacing 50 percent of required nitrogen with cow manure in fennel, could lead to a favorable quantitative and qualitative seed production as well as the treatments which used 100 percent of nitrogen as chemical fertilizers. Other finding of the present study, showed that seed inoculation with biofertilizer (Azotobacter + Azospirillum) had no positive effect on plant seed yield and essential oil.

4 tables, 52 ref

009165   Degani A V;Dudai N;Bechar A;Vaknin Y (Agronomy and Natural Resources Dep, Institute of Plant Sciences, Agricultural Research Organization, the V, P.O. Box 6, Bet Dagan 50250, Israel, Email: yiftachv@volcani.agri.gov.il) : Shade effects of leaf production and essential oil content and composition of the novel herb Eucalyptus citriodora hook. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2016, 19(2), 410-20.

The influence of light conditions on plant growth and essential oil production of the novel herb Eucalyptus citriodora (Lemon-Scented Gum) was investigated. Pot-grown plants were grown either directly exposed to sunlight or 'shaded' with the least exposure to sunlight (75% shade) or with intermediate exposure to sunlight (50% shade). Shaded plants were generally taller, had thicker stems and wider canopies, grew more branches, produced larger leaves, produced more essential oils per plant, produced similar concentrations of the major essential oil components (citronellal, β-citronellol and trans-caryophyllene) in the leaves and produced record high concentrations of (±)-p-menthane-3,8-diol, a component having superior insect repellent properties, than the ones grown under full sun. Plants grown under '50% shade' were likely to be the most productive of leaves and essential oils, either for personal use in tea infusions or for production of leaf-essential oils, potentially having improved capacity for insect repellency.

3 illus, 3 tables, 37 ref

009164   Dainy M S M;Usha P B;Varghese S S;Thampatti K C M (NO, Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, ) : Impact of biochar application on soil fertility status and yield of yard long bean in ferralitic soils. Int J Trop Agric 2016, 34(1), 249-51.

An experiment was conducted at College of Agriculture, Vellayani of Kerala Agricultural University, to investigate the efficacy of biochar from tender coconut husk for enhanced crop production. Biochar was produced, characterized and tested in the field at different levels of application viz. 10 and 20 and 30 t ha^{-1 using yard long bean variety Vellayani Jyothika as the test crop during January 2013 to April 2013. Along with biochar, other commonly used organic manures namely Farm Yard Manure and vermicompost; biofertilizers namely PGPR and AMF were also tested in the field. The experiments were laid out in RBD with three replications. The treatments were 1. Package of Practices recommendation, 2. Biochar @ 10 t ha-1 + NPK as per POP, 3. Biochar @ 20 t ha-1 + NPK as per POP, 4. Biochar @ 301 ha-1 + NPK as per POP, 5. Biochar @ 20 t ha-1 +75% NPK as per POP, 6. Biochar @ 10 t ha-1 + FYM @ 10t ha-1 +75% NPK as per POP, 7. Biochar @ 10 t ha-1 + vermicompost @ 5 tha-1 + 75% NPK as per POP, 8. Biochar @ 20 t ha-1 + 2% PGPR + NPK as per POP, 9. Biochar @ 20 t ha-1 + AMF @ 200 g m-2 + NPK as per POP. The results indicated the superiority of biochar on soil organic carbon status, CEC, available N status of soil and finally the crop yield.}

1 table, 10 ref

009163   da Costa Pinto J V;do Carmo Vieira M;Zarate N A H;Formagio A S N;Cardoso C A L;Carnevali T O;Desouza P H N (Faculty of Agrarian Sciences, Grande Dourados (UFGD) Univ, Brazil, Email: jannawicca@yahoo.com.br) : Effect of soil nitrogen and phosphorus on early development and essential oil composition of Schinus terebinthifolius raddi. J essential Oil Bearing Pl 2016, 19(1), 247-57.

Schinus terebinthifolius is a native Brazilian plant. It is wide-spread throughout Brazil and is popularly used as a medicinal plant. Research on this plant is encouraged by the Ministry of Health to investigate its therapeutic potential and to ensure its distribution in the National Health System. Thus, an experiment was carried out in Dourados-MS (22°11'53.8"S and 54°56'0.12"W) to evaluate the effects of nitrogen and phosphorus levels on early development, biomass yield and chemical composition of the essential oil of Schinus terebinthifolius. Five P2O5 rates (20, 120, 200, 280 and 380 kg ha^{-1) and five N rates (6, 36, 60, 84 and 114 kg ha-1) were used. Treatments were defined using the Plan Puebla III matrix, resulting in nine combinations of P2O5 and N levels, respectively (kg ha-1): 280 and 84; 280 and 36; 120 and 6; 120 and 36; 120 and 84; 200 and 60; 380 and 84, 20 and 36, and 280 and 114. The experimental design was a randomized block with four replications. Plants were harvested 105 and 213 days after transplanting. Phosphorus and nitrogen influenced plant height (174.65 cm), stem diameter (14.32 mm), fresh mass of leaves (169.67 g plant-1) and dry matter of leaves (51.01 g plant-1). Essential oil content (0.16 ml plant-1) was also influenced. The major constituents of the essential oil were a-pinene (15.20-15.56%), limonene (13.58-14.12%), sabinene (8.98-9.17%), β-pinene (8.18-8.99%), a-copaen (8.98-9.49%) and z-zalvene (8.56-9.19%). Thus, we recommend harvesting 213 days after transplanting and growing plants with 249.15 P2O5 and 98 N (kg ha-1).}

4 illus, 2 tables, 41 ref