003476   DWIVEDI S K, SINGH R, BALLABH B (Defence Institute of Bio Energy Research (DRDO), Haldwani-263139(Uttarakhand), Email: sandeephort@gmail.com) : Studies on changes in physico-chemical properties of fruits of seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) during various stages of development. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 68-71.

Seabuckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) is one of the important naturally growing wild plants of trans-Himalayas. It has attracted the attention of researcher, development agencies, policy makers and industries of the country during the last two decades. There is huge demand of ripe fruits of Seabuckthorn in country. However, data of fruit growth and optimal stage of harvesting are not available. Keeping above in mind, detailed studies were conducted at various stages of fruit growth of seabuckthorn. Extensive data was collected from 1st week of July to 4th week of October, until fruit become fully mature and ripe for harvesting. Based on the studies, it is concluded that seabuckthorn fruits takes about 120 days after fruit setting for harvesting and for getting optimum fruit yield. For tapping maximum nutritional benefits, fruit colour and float-sink of fruits may be adopted as maturity indices. Generally, fruits were found to attain maximum size, yield and other desirable biochemical qualities, when harvested during second fortnight of October. Thus, it is recommended to harvest ripe fruits of seabucthorn in the month of October, to harvest maximum yield and nutritional qualities.

1 table, 6 ref

003475   DUBEY N , SHARMA A (Amity Univ, Uttar Pradesh, Noida, Email: ndubey@amity.edu) : Influence of edible coating on quality characteristics and post-harvest storage life of sapota (Achras sapota L.). Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 62-7.

Sapota (Achars sapota), an important fruit of South East Asia has tremendous potential nutritionally but has limited scope for marketing and commercial success because of its limited shelf life. In ambient conditions the storage life of sapota is 3-4 days and experiments to increase the shelf life in sapota fruit till now are very limited. In the recent years edible coatings have served as very suitable and safe alternative to waxing and chemical treatments. Regarding this an attempt was made to conduct experiments to “Study the impact of sodium alginate and guar gum on quality and post- harvest storage life of sapota cv. Kalipatti”.Fruits harvested at commercial maturity stage were immersed in different edible coating of Sodium alginate and Guar gum for 5 minutes and stored at ambient condition up to 7 days. Physical chemical properties of fruits including firmness, weight loss, total soluble solids (TSS), total sugars, reducing sugars and organoleptic evaluation were conducted on daily basis till the end of storage period. Best results were recorded from sapota treated with Sodium alginate 3% + CaCl₂ (2%) in terms of fruit quality TSS (o B), total sugar, reducing sugars among all treatments. Sodium alginate had the least physiological loss in weight with excellent firmness, texture and biochemical properties. Moreover the lowest percentage of TSS, reducing sugars was recorded in the same treatment during the period of the experiment. The second-best treatment was Guar gum 2% which also resulted in retaining the fruit quality followed by Guar gum 1.5% but these treatments were significantly different from each other. Among combination treatments the best treatment was sodium alginate 3% + 2% CaCl₂ and guar gum 2% + 0.4% Glycerol in enhancing the shelf life, maintaining quality and physicochemical characteristics of sapota fruit.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

003637   SINGH N , DWIVEDI D H, KISHOR S (Horticulture Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, VidyaVihar, Rae Bareli Road, Lucknow U.P., Email: namrtabbau@rediffmail.com) : Cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.) as a functional food: Phytometabolite profiling in fruit pomace. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 58-61.

Physalis peruviana L. commonly known as golden berry, is grown in North India and is thus, underutilised in view of its immense medicinal and nutraceutical value. Samples of cape gooseberry pomace, extracted from whole fruit were subjected to Fourier Transform Infra Red spectroscopy (FT-IR), where major functional group viz. alkanes, aromatics, phenols, aliphatics, nitro compounds, amines and aliphatic iodo compounds, etc. Phytometabolites corresponding to the wavelength of alcohol and phenol at 3728.7 to 3574.5 cm^-1, alcohol and carboxylic acid at 3462.5 to 3009.3 cm^-1 , aldehydes at 2926.3 to 2858.3 cm^-1, esters, saturated aliphatic and ketone at 1745.2 to 1709.2 cm^-1, alkanes and primary, secondary aromatics amines to 1654.6 to 1160.0 cm^-1 , alkyl halide at 1093.3 to 1072.6 cm^-1, carboxylic acids at 956.0 to 595.1 cm^-1, aromatics, alkyl halides, aliphatic iodo compound corresponding to delta- tocopherol and stigmasterol were identified in the fruit pomace samples. Physalis peruviana is reported to be a rich source of withanolides and thus, further detailed analysis of the pomace is required to understand the nutraceutical potential.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

003633   SINGH A K, SINGH C P, RAM S (Horticulture Dep, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar (Uttarakhand)- 263145, Email: pntrgbpuatfrts@gmail.com) : Rejuvenation of senile and overcrowded mango trees in orchard. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 53-7.

The investigation on “Rejuvenation of senile and overcrowded mango trees in orchard” was carried out at Horticultural Research Centre, Pattharchatta under the Department of Horticulture of G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, District U.S. Nagar, Uttarakhand, India from 2000 to 2009 (continuously for 10 years). The selected trees were 58 years old and the experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design (RBD). The treatment combinations were comprised of 4 pruning methods i.e. M₀ : No pruning, M₁ : Heading back secondary branches, M₂ : Heading back upto tertiary branches, M₃ : Thinning up to crowded branches and centre open and 2 Paclobutrazol treatments namely P₀ : without paclobutrazol and P₁ : Standard dose of paclobutrazol. Every year the standard dose of paclobutrazol was given to trees in month of September by Trunk Soil Line Pour Method (TSLP). The pooled data of 10 years (2000 to 2009) showed that various pruning levels and use of paclobutrazol exhibited significant effect on vegetative growth, yield and quality. The reduced tree height (6.45 m) and spread from East to West as well as North to South (7.69 m and 7.68 m, respectively) were observed with the “Heading back up to secondary branches with standard dose of paclobutrazol” (M1 P1 ). Significantly higher fruit weight (326.56 g), fruit length (12.0 cm), pulp weight (237.22 g), fruit number tree-1 (266.57), fruit yield tree^-1 (87.59 kg) and fruit yield ha^-1 (6044.09 kg) were found with the treatment of “Thinning up to crowded branches & centre open and standard dose of paclobutrazol” (M3 P1 ).

2 tables, 12 ref

003647   SINGH V, GUPTA R K, PARMAR D K (Biology and Environmental Sciences Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Agricultural Univ, Palampur 176062 (HP), Email: virendrasingh1961@yahoo.com) : Growth performance of Stevia ebaerdiana Bertoni, under mid hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 50-2.

The present work was carried out to study the growth performance, stevioside and rebaudioside-A accumulation in the leaves of Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni under a subtropical mid hill region of Himachal Pradesh. Height of the stevia plants varied from 54.0 cm to 81.0, number of branches per plant varied from 2 to 3.8, and biomass of leaves for each plant varied from 12.1 to 33.9 g on dry weight basis. Leaf length varied from 5.0 cm to 8.4 cm, averaging 6.9 cm and width from 1.6 to 3.0 cm, averaging 2.3 cm. Stevioside content varied from 6.6% to 7.5%, averaging 6.9% before flowering, declined to 4.4-5.3%, averaging 4.8%, during flowering and increasing again to 5.4-6.9%, averaging 6.2% during seed formation. Rebaudioside-A content varied from 4.8 to 5.9%, averaging 5.3% during first collection of stevia leaves, declined to 0.06-3.9%, averaging 2.1%, during second collection and increasing again to 3.7-5.1%, averaging 4.4% during third collection. Total protein content declined with maturation of leaves, decreasing from 12.7% to 7.5%. There was decline of total nitrogen from 2% to 1.3%, P from 0.17% to 0.16% and K from 0.35% to 0.33%. Statistically, the variation was not significant (P<5%) in the biochemical parameters with the maturation of leaves. Stevia shows the promising growth under mid hill conditions of Himachal Pradesh.

3 tables, 10 ref

003638   SINGH N, RANI S, MISHRA A (Defense Institute of High Altitude Research (DIHAR), Leh-Ladakh-194101 (J&K), Email: narendradrdo@yahoo.co.in) : Cruciferous microgreens: Growing performance and their scope as super foods at high altitude locations. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 41-44.

Microgreens are the new generation of plant based food. The seedlings of edible plants harvested after 10- 12 days of germination. Microgreens are prevalent nutrition rich green food and the stellar source of essential minerals, vitamins and other phyto-nutrients. Due to their high antioxidant content, microgreens are considered a practical food that may improve health and prevent diseases. Cruciferous or cabbage family of vegetables is important part of our daily vegetables diet and they tend to be high in vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin K as well as dietary fiber. The studies have shown that cruciferous vegetable consumption is also associated with a reduced risk of total and cardiovascular disease mortality. The high altitude in Ladakh and North-East regions of India, physiographic and climatic conditions are very unfavorable. Indian Troops posted at such forwarded posts of country are provided high energy food. But due to severe cold and availability of less oxygen at high altitude, certain problems like gastric problems, hypoxia, loss of appetite, indigestion which may lead to the deficiency of vitamins and minerals in human body. In such conditions, microgreens can be a good addition to the daily food diet of troops. One of the greatest benefits of microgreens is that they are ready within 10 days and easy to grow on small scale. Microgreens from cruciferous are liked much due to their crisp and spicy flavor. They also show good germination and growth and can withstand at low temperature conditions of high altitude. The biomass of microgreens was observed comparatively high at such region. Microgreens production at remote locations may help in ensuring the availability of the required minerals, vitamins, flavor and dietary fiber in an instant and easiest way. Troops posted at forwarded posts can grow and consume fresh microgreens in their daily diet as additional food for their nutritional security.

1 illus, 3 tables, 7 ref

003670   TRIPATHI S, KUMAR A, KOHLI K, KUMAR J (Horticulture Dep, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Pantnagar (U S Nagar)-Uttarakhand-263 145, Email: shaileshgbpuat@gmail.com) : Organic cultivation of medicinal plants in Uttarakhand: An overview. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 45-9.

India is considered “Herbarium of the World” due to its varied agro-climatic conditions and is among the biggest repositories of herbal wealth in the world. Uttarakhand is also native place for different medicinal and aromatic plants due to its subtropical to cold arid climate. With ever-increasing demand of natural products in pharmaceutical industries, cultivation of medicinal plants is now becoming popular and economically feasible. In lieu of getting higher production, producers have started the high application of inorganic fertilizers and chemicals for crop production. These inorganic fertilizers and chemicals besides causing environmental problem, also hamper the composition of secondary metabolites, which are active ingredients in medicinal and aromatic plants. Under such circumstances, organic cultivation of these medicinal plants provides more viable options. Organically grown medicinal plants have not only appropriate composition but also enhance the opportunity for their export, as medicinal plants’ products constitute less than 1% of $70 billion Indian share of world trade. Thus, it is the need of the hour to promote the organic farming of medicinal and aromatic plants for making production system sustainable and export orientated by developing necessary strategies, putting institutional support for organic movement and making necessary policy changes. The global market for herbal and traditional medicines is growing and, for India to be a part of the growth, it is necessary that herbal industry and traditional medicines sector of our country emerge as a strong forum under one umbrella.

9 ref

003489   GUPTA S, SINGH K, GUPTA V (ICAR-National Bureau of Plant genetic Resources, New Delhi-110 012, Email: Kuldeep.singh4@icar.gov.in) : Genetic resource conservation of horticultural crops in India- Achievements and issues. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 16-29.

India is one of the eight Vavilovian Centres of origin for crop plants and one of the 12 megacenters of diversity. Four of the biodiversity hot-spots exist in the country. Consequently, India is rich in genetic diversity of plant species of cereals, millets, fruits, condiments, vegetables, pulses, fibre crops and oilseeds. India is the centre of origin and/or centre of diversity for many horticultural crops such as mango, banana, citrus, jackfruit, bael, black pepper, cardamom, ginger, turmeric, Garcinia and several medicinal and aromatic plants. Genetic diversity is being lost due to human interventions, natural vagaries or climate change. Thus, the conservation of plant diversity is of critical importance. Horticultural genetic resources can be conserved in situ and ex situ as complementary strategies. Germplasm of vegetatively propagated horticultural crops are being conserved ex situ, mainly in the field genebanks of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) institutes, State Agricultural Universities or orchards. National Genebank at ICAR-National Bureau of Plant Genetic Resources, New Delhi houses state of art facility in the form of seed-, in vitro- and cryo-genebanks to conserve the diversity and genetic resources of horticultural crops. This review presents conservation aspects of important horticultural crops and crop groups in India.

1 illus, 3 tables, 35 ref

003635   SINGH B (Indian Society for Protected Cultivation, New Delhi, Email: brahma88@gmail.com) : Indian futuristic vegetable production technologies –An essay. Progressive Horticulture 2019, 51(1), 01-15.

Vegetables are important for health and nutrition of human beings. This has been realized that vegetables are potential food to deal with hidden hunger such as deficiencies of vitamins and minerals. Vegetables are cultivated worldwide, China being largest producer of vegetables followed by India. Open field cultivation of vegetables is becoming riskier because of progressive climate change and several other factors. This is being tackled by using several low-cost technologies and structures such as use of plastic soil cover/mulch, low and high plastic tunnels, naturally ventilated poly houses, rain shelters, net houses and others besides using climate-controlled structures. This would shape-up future vegetable production in India. In addition to global climatic change and other negative characters of horticulture such as the decline in the total crop productivity, over exploitation of natural resources leading to their diminishing and degrading state, more or less stagnating farm incomes, absence of Eco-regional approach, prevalent declining and fragmented land holdings, trade liberalization on agriculture, limited employment opportunities in non-farm sector, have become serious concerns for horticultural growth and development. Therefore, the use of precision farming technology adoption is seen potential to increase productivity of crops like vegetables. In this technology instead of managing an entire field based upon some hypothetical average condition, which may not exist anywhere in the field, a precision farming approach recognizes sitespecific differences within fields and adjusts management actions accordingly. Application of right input, at right time and place and in right quantity in vegetable production economies cost of cultivation preventing wastage of inputs. This works out to be environment friendly too. The length of distance that food travels in cities from source of production will increase many folds in future if this way of dependency of cities for food and nutrition security on rural farming will continue as today (most of the food in cities is imported from far off places).In this situation, future cities would have to produce their own food and with increasing land prices conventional land farming would not be possible but vertical farming or roof top farming (called as zero –acreage farming as they are characterized by little or non-use of land) would be the possible approach and solution for food and nutrition to cities. Vertical farming is a possible replacement to conventional farming of vegetables in future. In general, out of several vegetable production technologies; protected farming, vertical farming and precision farming are future technologies.

25 ref

003560   MORE S S, SHINDE S E, KASTURE M C (Soil Science and Agriculture Chemistry Dep, Dr. Balasaheb Sawant Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra) : Status of silica in agriculture: A review. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 211-9.

Silicon is the second most abundant element in the universe and the second most abundant element on the planet, after oxygen, making about 25 percent of the Earth's crust. Silicon is one of the most useful elements to mankind. Since it exists in the Earth’s crust, many plants can accumulate it in large concentrations, in amounts similar to macronutrients. Despite the abundant benefits in agriculture, Si is generally not considered as an essential plant element. In nature, silicon occurs as the oxide (silica) and as silicates, in which it's used in fertilizers. Plant assimilates silicon through roots as silicic acid. Inside plant, it travels to active growing points, where it complexes with an organic compound in the cell walls and make them stronger. The beneficial effects of Si on plants have been demonstrated by many studies using pots, hydroponic, and field experiments. Silicon enhances growth and yield of all annual and vegetable crops, promotes upright growth (stronger and thicker stems, shorter internodes), prevents lodging, promotes favorable exposure of leaves to light, provides resistance to bacterial and fungal diseases and decrease some abiotic stress as temperatures, salinity, heavy metal and Aluminum toxicity. According to science researches, silicon increase plant’s resistance to many plant diseases such as powdery mildew and also many insect pests. Silicon has positive effect on the biomass yield under deficit irrigation. Plants subjected to draught, treated with silicon, maintained higher stomatal conductivity, relative water content and water potential. It helps leaves become larger and thicker, thus limiting the loss of water through transpiration and reduces water consumption. Silicon shows great influence on the development of plant roots, thus allowing better root resistance in dry soils and its faster growth.

96 ref

003466   DESHMUKH A J, SABALPARA A N (Plant Pathology Dep, Agriculture Coll, NAU, Waghai, Gujarat) : Field effect of seed biopriming on Alternaria leaf spot of Green gram. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 195-9.

Two years field experiment was conducted to see the effect of seed biopriming on incidence of Alternaria leaf spot in green gram at college farm, NMCA, NAU, Navsari. Seed biopriming with six different bioagents viz., T. viride, T. harzianum, T. fasciculatum P. fluorescens-I, P. fluorescens-II, P. Aeruginosa were taken as bioprimed treatments while, hydroprimed seeds and untreated seeds were acted as treated and absolute control. Data on average percent disease control was taken in present experiment. All the treatments were found to be effective in reducing the Alternaria leaf blight by 46.54 to 55.81 Percent over absolute control. The highest percent disease control was obtained in seed biopriming with T. harzianum (55.81 %) followed by T. viride (55.28%), P. aeruginosa (55.03%) and all the other treatments over control at 65 DAS. Thus, seed biopriming with T. harzianum, T. viride or P. aeruginosa @10 gm talc base formulation/kg seeds was recommended to manage Alternaria leaf spot significantly.

1 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

003541   KUMAR V, MEHRA B, DANIEL S, JAN N (Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of organic manures and irrigation schedule on growth and yield of Sarpagandha under teak based agroforestry system. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 86-8.

A field experiment entitled “Effect of organic manure and irrigation schedule on growth and yield of Sarpagandha under teak and Poplar based Agroforestry system” under the agro climatic conditions of Northern India was conducted at college of forestry, Sam Higginbottom University Agriculture Technology and Sciences Allahabad. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design, having organic manures and irrigation schedule 15 treatment combinations, each replicated three times. Recorded data were analyzed the method by Panse and Sukhtme (1967). Application of T12 100% FYM+ 20 days Irrigation resulted in higher plant growth viz., plant height (67.58 cm), number of leaves per plant (220.25), number of branches per plant (32.25), collar diameter (15.70 cm) and root length (55.41 cm) and yield parameters viz., root fresh weight (30.52 gm), root dry weight (14.52 gm), root yield (44.63 g) plant^-1 , root yield (847.97 kg) plot^-1 and root yield (22.04 q ha^-1 ).

1 table, 8 ref

003616   SHALINI C H, LAL G M (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh) : Correlation and path coefficient analysis for yield and yield components in blackgram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper). Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 65-8.

Genetic variability and correlations among 82 genotypes of blackgram was assessed for twelve quantitative traits. These genotypes along with two national checks ‘T-9’ and ‘Shekhar-2’ were evaluated Field Experimentation Centre of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India. Wide range of variability was observed for quantitative traits The variability study indicated high to moderate phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation accompanied by high heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean for traits like number of clusters/plant, number of pods/cluster, primary branches/plant, harvest index and seed yield/plant indicating their importance in selection for yield improvement. Seed yield/ plant showed strong positive correlation with number of clusters/plant, number of pods/cluster and harvest index, these traits has also showed positive direct effect on seed yield indicated scope for improvement through selection of these traits.

3 tables, 23 ref

003542   KUMARI U, PRADHAN M, TOPPO N, RANJAN N K (Horticulture Dep, BAU, Kanke, Ranchi, Jharkhand) : Studies on germination and seedlings growth of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cultivars under net house conditions. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 62-4.

A trial to study the germination and seedlings growth of Mango (Mangifera indica L.) cultivars under net house conditions was conducted at Horticulture Farm, Department of Horticulture and Post Harvest technology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal, during the year 2016-17. The experiment was laid out in completely Randomized Design. Fully ripened mango fruits stones were collected from healthy and disease free plants of Langra, Chausa, Dashehari, Local-1, Local-2, Local-3 and Local-4 cultivars and sown in the month of August in polythene bags containing mixture of Farm soil, Sand and Farmyard manure. Among the different cultivars, Dashehari found better for germination of mango stone as well as growth of mango seedlings (height, number of leaves, girth of seedling, Fresh and dry weight of roots, fresh and dry weight of seedlings).

2 tables, 17 ref

003468   DEVI N D, ARUMUGAM T (Vegetable Crops Dep, Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Evaluation of brinjal genotypes under various levels of salinity. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(6), 01-3.

Accumulation of excess salt in the root zone resulting in the partial/complete loss of soil productivity is a worldwide phenomenon. The problems of soil salinity are most wide spread in the arid and semi arid region but salt affected soil also occurs extensively in sub-humid & humid climates, particularly in the coastal regions where the ingress of sea water through estuaries and rivers and through ground water causes large scale salinization. The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of salinity on seed germination, seedling characters and to find out the genetic salt tolerance or resistance cultivars during germination and seedling growth. In this study, germination percentage, seedling length, root length, shoot length, vigour index, salt tolerant index were assayed at three different salinity levels viz., 25 mM NaCl, 50 mM NaCl and 100 mM NaCl and compared with control (0mM NaCl). The germination percentage and seedling growth were significantly reduced under high saline condition. The seedling length, root length, shoot length were also significantly reduced under saline stress situation. Among the 25 genotypes, IC136296, IC136041, IC136096 and IC136461 were found highly tolerant to saline condition which could be used as rootstock for produce saline tolerant grafting as well as developing saline tolerant/resistant hybrids.

2 tables, 11 ref

003443   BHARDWAJ A K, PRASAD V M, SINGH S, KUMAR S, KUMAR N (Horticulture Dep, Sam Higginbottom Univ of Agriculture, Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Effect of foliar spray of urea and zinc on plant growth, yield and quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad safeda under high density planting. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 296-8.

An experiment was conducted at the central research farm, Department of Horticulture, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture Technology and Science, Allahabad during (July-December 2017) to study the “Effect of foliar spray of urea and zinc on plant growth, yield and quality of guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad safeda under high density planting” Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 16 treatments replicated thrice. The results revealed that maximum plant height (246.47 cm), number of branches (23.00), no of days for flowering (74.33 days), numbers of flower per plant (74.33), no of fruits per plant (42), on fruits set percentage (54.44%), fruits weight (155.61 g), fruits yield per plant (6.57 kg), acidity (0.55%), ascorbic acid (267.30 mg/100 g), total soluble solid (12.25 ⁰Brix), and sugar (8.15%) were recorded in T12 (Urea 2% + zinc 0.6%) followed by T11 (Urea 2% + zinc 0.4%). The least values were recorded in the control.

2 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref

003617   SHANMUGAPRIYA P, RATHIKA S, RAMESH T, JANAKI P (Agronomy Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Trichy, Tamil Nadu) : Evaluation of weed management practices on weed control and yield of transplanted finger millet. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 276-8.

Field experiment was conducted at Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute, Tiruchirapalli during Kharif, 2018 to evaluate the weed management practices in transplanted finger millet under sodic soil. The weed management practices viz., pre emergence (PE) application of pendimethalin 30 EC at 750 g/ha, oxyfluorfen 23.5 EC at 50 g/ha, bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G at 60 g/ha + pretilachlor 6 G at 600 g/ha, early post emergence (EPOE) application of bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha, PE pendimethalin 30 EC at 750 g/ha fb EPOE bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha, PE oxyfluorfen 23.5 EC at 50 g/ha fb EPOE bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha, PE bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G at 60 g/ha + pretilachlor 6 G at 600 g/ha fb EPOE bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha, PE oxyfluorfen 23.5 EC at 50 g/ha fb hand weeding on 30 DAT, Hand weeding on 15 and 30 DAT and unweeded control. The results revealed that the lowest total weed density, total weed dry weight and higher WCE were registered in PE application of bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G at 60 g/ha + pretilachlor 6 G at 600 g/ha fb EPOE application of bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha and it was followed by hand weeding on 15 and 30 DAT. The highest grain and straw yield were also registered in PE application of bensulfuron methyl 0.6 G at 60 g/ha + pretilachlor 6 G at 600 g/ha fb EPOE application of bispyribac sodium 10 SC at 25 g/ha and it was on par with hand weeding on 15 and 30 DAT.

2 illus, 13 ref

003576   PANDEY V, SINGH A K, DEO K, MISHRA A, SINGH G (Agrometeorology Div, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural Univ, Pusa, Bihar) : Sensitivity analysis of growth and yield attributes of chickpea to the temperature under actual condition using DSSAT model. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 233-7.

A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2011-12 to access the sensitivity analysis of growth and yield attributes of chickpea to the temperature under actual condition using DSSAT model in silty loam soil at student’s instructional Farm, N.D. University of Agriculture & Technology, Kumarganj, Faizabad. The experiment was conducted in split plot design and replicated 4 times with three dates of sowing viz. D1 (26th October), D2 (10th November) and D3 (25th November), and three varieties viz. V1 (Pusa-362), V2 (PG-186) and V3 (Awarodhi). DSSAT crop growth simulation model used for calibration. The historical data of the year 2009-10 and 2010-11 used for improving model tuning. The yield and yield attributes, phonological stages, test weight, harvest index as simulated by model were compared with the observed data. The result revealed that the model underestimated the test weight, LAI, first pod initiation, physiological maturity and overestimated rest of the parameters. Decrease of maximum temperature and minimum temperature by 1 ⁰C over normal temperature increased the simulated grain yield of chickpea. Higher percent change 35.8% and 34.4% from base yield of 2340 kg^-1 was recorded with decrease of maximum temperature and minimum temperature respectively by 3 ⁰C over normal temperature obtained during the crop period.

9 tables, 10 ref

003599   RANI M, METHA M, RANI K (Family Resource Management Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hissar, Haryana) : Role of rural women in agriculture: A review. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 205-7.

Agriculture is the first culture that man learnt to practice as a means of living and a way of life. It is the primary sector of any economy. This sector employs 4/5th of all economically active women in the country. About 48% of India’s self-employed farmers are women. About 70% of farm work is performed by women. The rural women play a significant role in agriculture and other agro based activities like crop production, livestock production, horticulture, post-harvesting operations, agro/social forestry fisheries, and other allied sectors. It has been observed that women work every day for about 8-9 hours in agriculture and 4 hours in household activities and there are certain agricultural operations in which female agricultural workers are considered better than male. The present review complies the recent trends regarding various roles played by the women in agriculture sectors.

15 ref

003582   PATIL M, SANKANGOUDAR S (Extension and Communication Management Dep, Agriculture Sciences Univ, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Knowledge of minor millets among growers and nongrowers of minor millets. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 187-90.

The research study was conducted in Dharwad taluk of Dharwad district of Karnataka state during 2018 to know the knowledge of minor millets among growers and non-growers. Two villages of millet growing area i.e. Garag and Yadwad and two villages of non-millet growing area i.e. Nigadi and Kavalageri were selected with help of RSK. Little millet (savi) and foxtail millet (navane) generally grown in this areas. Sixty millet growers, 60 non millet growers from same village and 60 non millet growers from different village was randomly selected as sample. Thus sample constituted was total 180 respondents were selected for the study. The data was collected from the respondents through pre-tested self-structured schedule. Co-relation research design was used in the present study. The collected data was tabulated and analysed by using suitable statistical tools. The result revealed that, knowledge about minor millets among respondents analysed. Three fourth (75.00%) of the growers had medium knowledge and only one fourth (25.00%) of the growers had high knowledge however there was none in low knowledge category. A similar trend was seen in the non-growers in the same villages. In nongrowing area about 48.00 percent of the non-growers had medium knowledge and only 11.67 percent of the non-growers having high knowledge and 44 per cent of the non-growers had low knowledge. About the government related program to millets very few of the respondents were aware of such programs.

5 tables, 4 ref

003685   WANI S A, KHAN P A, ZAHOOR S, DAR Z A (SKUAST-K, Jammu, Jammu and Kashmir) : Role of genetics in tree improvement. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 63-6.

If global warming materializes as projected, natural or artificial regeneration of forests with local seed sources will become increasingly difficult. However, global warming is far from a certainty and predictions of its magnitude and timing vary at least two fold, In the face of such uncertainty, reforestation strategies should emphasize conservation, diversification, and broader deployment of species, seed sources, and families. Planting programs may have to deploy non-local seed sources, imported from further south or from lower elevations, which necessitates a system for conserving native gene pools. Planting a diverse array of species or seed sources is a hedge against the uncertainty inherent in current projections of warming. Most tree improvement programs already stress genetic diversity and deployment of multi-progeny mixes, but may better prepare for climate change by testing selections in an even wider set of environments than is now the case. Gene conservation has three facets: (1) the maintenance of diversity in production plantations to buffer against vulnerability to pests and climatic extremes; (2) the preservation of genes for their future value in breeding; (3) the protection of species to promote ecosystem stability. In practice, economic forces tend to favour genetic monocultures to maximize short term gain. Genes are the raw material from which new strains will be constructed, but only if they are preserved. Tree improvement programs generally promote diversity in seedling plantations to a degree, perhaps, not attained even in natural stands. In high intensity programs, selections from scattered stands are brought together in seed orchards. The progeny, produced by cross pollination, have gene combinations that could never have occurred in nature, where their parents were widely separated. Production plantations established with seed from an orchard of several, say 40, different selections should be in little danger from reduced diversity, especially if the breeding program has been managed to control inbreeding and reduce the chance loss of genetic variability. Even in low intensity tree improvement programs, the genetic base is usually maintained.

6 ref

003619   SHARMA A, MONLAI S, DEVADAS VS, LINGGI B, YAO A, HAQUE A (Arunachal Univ of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh) : Determination of seed germination and seedling growth of local and exotic rice varieties with different water. Pharma Innov 2019, 8(5), 45-53.

The present studied conducted on seedling growth and germination of rice varieties with different water. The shoot length, root length, germination percentage, seed vigour, root fresh weight, root dry weight, shoot fresh weight, shoot dry weight observed in local rice Sali, Khampti Lahi and exotic rice Thailand Lahi. The observed data was computed with Factorial Completely Randomized Design (FCRD). Significant variations observed in treatments and varieties. The shoot length ranges of Sali 0.85-2.33 cm, Khampti Lahi 1.43-1.68 cm, Thailand Lahi 1.38-1.65 cm; root length ranges of Sali 2.28-2.55 cm, Khampti Lahi 2.15-2.85 cm, Thailand Lahi 1.83-2.53 cm; shoot fresh weight ranges of Sali 0.18-0.22 gm, Khampti Lahi 0.18-0.22 gm and Thailand Lahi 0.17-0.23 gm; shoot dry weight ranges of Sali 0.07- 0.11 gm, Khampti Lahi 0.06-0.10 gm and Thailand Lahi 0.07-0.13 gm; root fresh weight ranges Sali 0.61-0.74 gm, Khampti Lahi 0.59-0.71 gm and Thailand Lahi 0.57-0.77 gm; root dry weight ranges of Sali 0.11-0.18 gm, Khampti Lahi 0.10-0.17 gm and Thailand Lahi 0.14-0.33 gm; Germination percentage of ranges of Sali 33.33-71.43%, Khampti Lahi 48.00-84.35% and Thailand Lahi 30.43-80.77% and Seed vigour ranges of Sali 1.42-3.19, Khampti Lahi 1.73-3.66 and Thailand Lahi 1.06-3.24 were obtained with different water. The highest shoot length was obtained with river and slurry water treatments. The highest root length was obtained with treatment T₅ Soil water. The highest shoot fresh weight was obtained with T₇ slurry water, treatment T₂ drinking water and T₅ soil water. The highest shoot dry weight was obtained with treatment T₇ slurry water, treatment T₃ drain water and treatment T₆ river water. The highest root fresh weight was obtained with treatment T₇ slurry water, treatment T₅ soil water and treatment T₆ river water. The highest root dry weight was obtained with treatment T₇ river water, treatment T₂ drinking water and treatment T₅ soil water. The highest germination percentage was obtained with treatment T₂ drinking water. The highest seed vigour was obtained with treatment T₆ river water and treatment T₂ drinking water. The availability of nutrient in different water conducts germination and seedling growth of rice varieties. The physiology of seed promotes germination and morphological development.

10 illus, 8 tables, 16 ref

002646   KHALED K M, OSMAN S M (National Institute of Standards, Giza, Egypt) : Proficiency investigation of torque tools calibration as a national demand. Mapan - J Metrol Soc India 2019, 34(2), 207–15.

The current paper represents a round loop for calibration of torque tools organized by NIS. These measurements are aimed to evaluate the performance of torque tools calibration laboratories in Egypt in the range from 200 N m up to 1000 N m in both clockwise and anticlockwise directions. Results are evaluated using E_n-value method and Z-score method based on the weighted means and the corresponding uncertainties. The outlier test and consistency test were performed on the measurements before applying the Z-score test. The Z-score evaluation shows that participants’ results are consistent specifically in the range from 400 N m up to 1000 N m. Further comparison with lower capacity artifact is recommended in the lower torque range.

11 Ref

003565   NAUTIYAL P, DWIVEDI A C (Zoology and Biotechnology Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Srinagar 246174, Uttarakhand, Email: pn.mahseer@gmail.com) : Fishery in the tributaries of yamuna river (Ken river, Paisuniriver) and Ganga river (Tons river). J Mountain Res 2019, 14(2), 19-36.

A study on the landings of various species recorded randomly from December 2003 to June 2004 from fish landing and marketing centers on the Ken at Banda, on the Paisuni at Karwi and Tons at Chakghat and Sadiapur (Prayagraj), revealed that the average catch day^-1 of the Ken river was dominated by Cyprinus carpio followed by Aorichthys spp. and miscellaneous fish. In contrast the Paisuni R. was dominated by Labeo calbasu followed by Hypophthalmichthys molitrix and miscellaneous while the latter group dominated over Aorichthys spp and L. calbasu in the Tons R. Among selected species Labeo rohita commands higher price (Rs 61.7), Tor tor moderate (Rs 52.5) and L. calbasu lower price (Rs 37.5).

7 illus, 11 table, 38 ref

003668   TOMAR S, KHAN M A, LAL M, SINGH B P (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Div, ICAR- Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110012, Email: malimuddinkhan@gmail.com) : Efficacy of biosurfactant producing bacteria (Pseudomonas aeruginosa) against black scurf (Rhizoctonia solani) of potato. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 126-8.

Black scurf, a major cause of concern wherever potato is grown year after year, is managed mainly through seed treatment before planting. Five Pseudomonas aeruginosa isolates were tested against Rhizoctonia solani in vitro and based on the results, P. aeruginosa 1 was further evaluated in the pot as well as field conditions. Reduction in disease incidence up to 21.14 and 15.55 per cent under the pot and field conditions respectively indicated little effect of P. aeruginosa 1 against R. solani of potato.

1 illus, 1 table, 16 ref

003621   SHARMA K R, RAJU S V S (Entomology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi 221005, Uttar Pradesh, Email: ravikamal8075@gmail.com) : Field efficacy of some combination insecticide formulations against paddy planthoppers. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 119-25.

Comparative field efficacy of certain insecticide combination formulations with their sole insecticidal treatments is reported against rice planthoppers [brown (BPH) and white backed (WBPH)] during kharif 2016. The plots treated with fipronil 5 per cent + buprofezin 20 per cent SC @ 62.5+250 g a.i. ha^-1 recorded the lowest number of BPH population (3.83 and 2.61 per 5 hills) in the first and second insecticidal sprays, respectively, followed by indoxacarb 10 per cent + thiamethoxam 10 per cent WG @ 50 + 50 g a.i. ha^-1(4.81 and 3.45 per 5 hills, respectively). The sole treatments of thiamethoxam 25WG @ 25 g a.i. ha^-1 and buprofezin 25WG @ 50 g a.i. ha^-1 performed as the third and fourth best treatments, respectively. The WBPH population was low in plots treated with fipronil + buprofezin EC (2.95 and 2.60 per 5 hills) after the first and second insecticidal sprays, respectively, followed by indoxacarb + thiamethoxam WG (3.83 and 3.36 per 5 hills, respectively). The highest population was recorded in untreated control. The highest per cent yield over control was recorded in fipronil + buprofezin EC treated plot (47.84), followed by indoxacarb + thiamethoxam 10 WG (44.88).

1 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

003459   CHAUHAN N R, JOSHI M N, LITORIYA N S, PARMAR K D (Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand 388110, Gujarat, Email: nirmalagri83@gmail.com) : Persistence of flonicamid 50 WG in/on paddy. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 114-8.

An experiment was carried out under the field condition at Agricultural Research Station, Sansoli (Gujarat) to study the residue and persistence of flonicamide in paddy (Oryza sativa) following two applications @ 75 and 150 g a.i. ha^-1 along with control (water spray). The initial deposits on paddy were 0.41 and 0.45 mg kg^-1 at the standard and double doses, respectively. The levels declined and reached below determination level on 3rd d at either dose of application. The linear time v/s residue concentration plot showed that the dissipation pattern of flonicamid followed first order of kinetics with the monophasic mode. The half-life values were 0.77 and 0.74 d for standard and double doses, respectively. At harvest, residues of flonicamid in grain, husk, fodder and soil were below detectable level (BDL) (0.05 mg kg^-1).

2 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

003463   DAS S, SINGHA D, SAHA S, KUMAR M, BHATTACHARYYA A, ROY S (Agricultural Chemicals Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur 741252, Nadia, West Bengal, Email: roysankhabckv@gmail.com) : Multiresidue method for GC-MS amenable multiclass pesticides in pineapple fruit. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 102-13.

A simple, rapid QuEChERS method is reported for simultaneous analysis of 86 multiclass pesticides in pineapple fruit. Based on a comparative recovery by three methods, the one involving ethyl acetate extractant and dSPE clean up with 50 mg PSA and 150 mg anhydrous sodium sulphate was found more appropriate and further validated following SANTE guidelines. The coeffiicient of determination (R₂ ) value of all the pesticides ranged between 0.97-0.99. Limit of quantification (LOQ) of most of the compounds was10 ng g^-1. Bifenox, bitertanol, carfentrazone ethyl, chlorfenvinphos, flusilazole, haloxyfop methyl, methamidophos, methyl paraxon, paclobutrazole and pyraclostrobin showed a higher LOQ of 50 ng g^-1. Average recovery ranged within 70-120 per cent at 10, 50 and 100 ng g^-1 fortification levels with RSD_r , RSD_wR below 20 per cent; Horwitz ratio between 0.5-2 at LOQ proved that this method is sufficiently accurate, repeatable and reproducible and therefore can be effectively utilized for pesticide residue analysis in pineapple fruits.

2 illus, 3 tables, 9 ref

003427   ADEEBA S, BHAT M A, BHAT Z A (Plant Pathology Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Kashmir, Srinagar 190025, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: hejazee2011@gmail.com) : Validation of fungicide spray schedule of conventional apple orchards under high density apple orchard system against scab and alternaria leaf blotch. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 92-5.

The purpose of the study was to find out efficacy of phenological stage based recommended fungicide spray schedule comprising seven sprays used in conventional apple orchards (apple cultivars grafted on seedling rootstocks) for the management of scab and alternaria leaf blotch of apple in high density apple orchards (cultivars grafted on clonal rootstocks) of Kashmir valley. Its application under high density apple orchard (cv. Red Delicious on seedling roostock) system provided inadequate control as compared to the standard check. The application of fungicide sprays at different phenological stages under high density orchard system provided 70.07 to 74.27 and 63.96 to 79.97 per cent control in leaf scab incidence and intensity, as against 93.89 and 95.17 per cent recorded in conventional orchard system, respectively. The sprays exhibited 63.96 to 70.31 and 63.21 to 68.61 per cent control in fruit scab incidence and intensity in high density orchard system as against 92.31 to 90.04 per cent in conventional system, respectively. However, in case of Alternaria leaf blotch disease 67.48 to 82.16 and 83.84 to 88.15 per cent disease control in incidence and intensity was observed as against 82.16 and 88.15 per cent in conventional orchard system.

1 table, 15 ref

003598   RANA S S, BADIYALA D, SHARMA N (Agronomy Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur 176062, Himachal Pradesh, Email: ranass_dee@rediffmail.com) : Imazethapyr and its ready-mix combinations for weed control in pea under Palam valley conditions of Himachal Pradesh. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 66-73.

Field evaluation of imazethapyr and its ready-mix combinations with pendimethalin and imazamox for their effect on weeds and yield and economics of pea is reported. Twelve treatments viz., pendimethalin 750 g ha^-1 as pre-emergence, imazethapyr at 60 and 70 g ha^-1 as pre-emergence and at 70 and 80 g ha^-1 as early postemergence; pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 800 and 900 g ha^-1 as pre-emergence, imazethapyr + imazamox at 50, 60 and 70 g ha^-1 as post-emergence, hand weeding twice and weedy check were tested during three consecutive winters of 2014-15 to 2016-17 at Palampur. Avena ludoviciana (31.3%), Phalaris minor (31.3%) and Lolium temulentum (25%) were the major weeds. Application of imazethapyr at 80 g ha^-1 early post-emergence being at par with pre-emergence pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 800 or 900 g ha^-1 controlled the weeds effectively and resulted in highest green pea yield, net returns due to weed control and marginal benefit-cost ratio (MBCR). Early post emergence application of imazethapyr 80 g ha^-1 resulted in the highest weed control efficiency, weed management index, agronomic management index, and integrated weed management index, and the lowest weed index. Weeds reduced green pea yield by 80.2 per cent. With every g m^-2 increase in weed weight, the green pea yield decreased by 75.1 kg ha^-1. Based on the overall impact index, early post-emergence imazethapyr 70-80 g ha^-1, pre-emergence imazethapyr 60-70 g ha^-1 and pre-emergence ready-mix combination consisting of pendimethalin + imazethapyr at 800-900 g ha^-1 may be used for weed control in pea under Palam Valley conditions of Himachal Pradesh.

4 illus, 10 ref

003481   GAIROLA K, TEWARI A K (Plant Pathology Dep, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar 263 145, Uttarakhand, Email: kgairola123@gmail.com) : Management of white rust (Albugo candida) in Indian mustard by fungicides and garlic extract. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 60-5.

Efficacy of nine recommended and four new fungicides along with garlic extract (based on pooled data of two years) in controlling the white rust disease in vitro and under glasshouse condition is reported. Metalaxyl 8 per cent + mancozeb 64 per cent (0.25%) and azoxystrobin 25 EC (0.1%) were the most effective in controlling disease in-vitro (87.84 and 86.85%) as well as under glasshouse (100 and 100%) respectively. Cymoxanil (8%) + mancozeb (64%) (31.51%), hexaconazole (31.09%), difenoconazole (44.16%), dimethomorph (43.22%) and fosetyl-aluminum (25.29%) (each at 0.1%) were least effective in managing the disease. Trifloxystrobin and kresosim methyl (0.1%) were also effective and significantly at par with the recommended propiconazole and tebuconazole 50 per cent + trifloxystrobin 25 per cent (each at 0.1%). Garlic extract (2%) was significantly superior over the old recommended fungicides.

2 tables, 20 ref

003544   LAXMAN G, SHARMA R K, SINHA SR (Entomology Div, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi 110 012, Email: laxmanagrico@gmail.com) : Field efficacy of biopesticides against diamondback moth and aphids on cabbage. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 54-9.

Results of field evaluation of biopesticides against diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) and aphids (Brevicornye brassicae and Lipaphis erysimi) on cabbage during rabi seasons 2016-17 and 2017-18 are reported. The experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with seven treatments and an untreated control each in three replications. Nimbicidine resulted in the highest mean per cent reduction (53.33, 49.71) over control (PROC) after first and second spray against diamondback moth during 2016-17 followed by neemban (46.31, 41.13), Beauveria bassiana (33.36, 35.12), Metarhizium anisopliae (30.50, 26.33) and Verticillium lecanii (26.07, 19.21). Nimbicidine resulted in the highest mean PROC of (60.19, 63.45) after first and second spray against aphids during 2016-17, followed by neemban (54.90, 57.33), V. lecanii (45.87, 50.41), B. bassiana (37.83, 42.67) and M. anisopliae (32.96, 40.49).

5 tables, 27 ref

003451   BISANE K D, SHINDE B D, SAXENA S P, PATIL P (Navsari Agricultural Univ, Gandevi 396 360, Gujarat, Email: kdbisane@yahoo.co.in) : Management of sapota seed borer (Trymalitis margarias Meyrick) with some newer pesticides. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 48-53.

Profenophos 0.075 per cent @ 1.5 mL L^-1 minimized fruit damage up to 3.95 and 3.67 per cent after three sprays against seed borer, Trymalitis margarias Meyrick at Gandevi, Gujarat and Palghar, Maharashtra respectively, and showed superiority over the standard check acephate 0.1125 per cent and other pesticides. It showed comparable results with novaluron 0.005 per cent @ 0.5 mL L^-1 at Gandevi (4.41%) and indoxacarb 0.0036 per cent (4.63%) and novaluron 0.005 per cent (4.94%) at Palghar. However, the highest marketable fruit yield of 14.94 t ha^-1 was obtained from the trees sprayed with novaluron 0.005 per cent which was statistically on-par with profenophos 0.075 per cent (14.89 t ha^-1) and indoxacarb 0.0036% (13.42 t ha^-1) at Gandevi, whereas profenophos 0.075 per cent produced a higher marketable yield of 17.09 t ha^-1, followed by indoxacarb 0.0036 per cent (16.53 t ha^-1) and novaluron 0.005 per cent (15.76 t ha^-1) at Palghar. No residues were detected on fruits harvested 10 d after spraying of profenophos 0.075 and novaluron 0.005 per cent.

2 tables, 14 ref

003429   AHANGAR M A, BHAT Z A, MOHIDDIN F A, KHAN N A, BHAT MA (Plant Pathology Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, 192102, Jammu and Kashmir, Email: mashrafjs@gmail.com) : Chemical management of apple scab under temperate agro-climatic conditions of Kashmir. Pestic Res J 2019, 31(1), 28-33.

The effect of application of contact, systemic and combination of contact and systemic fungicides at different phenological stages (green tip, pink bud, petal fall, fruitlet, fruit development stage (FDS)- I, FDS- II, FDS- III and pre-harvest) for the control of apple scab is reported. All the test fungicides were effective to control the apple scab and provided an average leaf scab disease incidence reduction of 77.9 to 93.8 per cent over standard check. Combination of contact and systemic fungicides was significantly superior over all the tested fungicides in controlling the scab disease incidence and intensity. Eight sprays of the selected fungicides were done at appropriate stages which reduced the apple scab significantly as compared to 14-16 sprays used routinely to manage the disease by farmers under the test temperate agro-climatic conditions. The disease pressure of apple scab was more during 2015 compared to 2016 and 2017.

2 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

003273   RAMRAKHIYANI V C , DESHMUKH S V (Life Sciences Dep, Mumbai Univ, Mumbai, Maharashtra, Email: vanita1605@gmail.com) : Study of the incidence and impact of chronic sleep deprivation in Indian population with special emphasis on neuropsychology testing. Indian Sleep Med 2019, 14(2), 23–8.

The present study assesses the effect of such chronic sleep deprivation on brain functioning with special emphasis on frontal lobe functions. Chronic sleep deprivation is common in the modern society. Deficits in daytime performance due to sleep loss are experienced universally and associated with significant social, financial, and human cost. The objective way to assess effect of chronic sleep deprivation on various brain functions such as sustained attention, planning, and memory is to conduct the neuropsychology test battery. The general public was recruited as volunteers. Volunteers were asked to wear Actiwatch and/to fill sleep diary for 7 consecutive days. The neuropsychology test battery utilized included psychomotor vigilance task, forward digit span, Iowa gambling task, tower of London, Wisconsin card sorting test, Stroop, and Rey auditory verbal learning test. Results show that chronic sleep deprivation has the most significant effect on the younger generation as compared to older adults. There was no significant effect on the elderly population. Future large cohort studies are underway to substantiate the findings of this study.

7 tables, 26 ref

003629   SHIRZAD M D, RAHMANI A S (Animal Science Dep, GKVK, Bangalore, Karnataka) : Effect of supplementing organic source of zinc and manganese on growth performance of broiler chicks. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2019, 6(6), 01-4.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of supplementing organic source of Zinc (Zn) and Manganese (Mn) on growth performances of broilers chicks. One hundred and twenty days old unsexed broiler chicks were randomly assigned to four dietary treatments with three replicates and 10 birds per each replicate. The experimental birds were fed with the following four diets. The control diet (T₁) was formulated by incorporating inorganic Zinc and Manganese. For each of the treatments, inorganic Zinc and Manganese diet of the control diet were added by organic (Methionine base) Zinc and Manganese at 100% of the recommended level (T₂), 80% of the recommended level (T₃) and 70% of the recommended level (T₄). There was no significant difference in body weight, feed consumption and feed efficiency between organic and inorganic source fed Zinc and Manganese groups.

2 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

003448   BHOSALE A M, BHOSALE V A (Agrochemicals and Pest Management Dep, Shivaji Univ, Kolhapur, Maharashtra) : Parasitism potential of Diadegma insulare (Cameron) (Ichneumonidae: Hymenoptera) against Plutella xylostella (L.) (Plutellidae: Lepidoptera). Int J Entomol Res 2019, 4(3), 31-4.

Diadegma insulare (Cameron) (Ichneumonidae: Hymenoptera) is a solitary larval parasitoid of Plutella xylostella (L.) (Plutellidae: Lepidoptera), a notorious and polyphagous pest of cabbage and cauliflower in India. Nutritional requirement, host age, specificity and density dependent factor play a very crucial role in biocontrol program of parasitoids and further their release in the field for pest control strategies. Attempt has been made to initiate their mass multiplication for successful biocontrol programme. Therefore, present work was conducted to find out the optimum host stage and density for maximum progeny production of the parasitoid under laboratory conditions. The parasitoid caused highest mortality in the pest larvae of second instars, 4 day old larvae were attacked most with high percent parasitism, 39.00%. Optimum density for maximum progeny production of D. insulare was 20, which generate maximum parasitism (41.00%). Host specificity by exposing the parasitoids towards different host species and analyse parasitoid preference by P. xylostella > Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) > Mythimna separate Walker > Achaea janata (Linnaeus). Nutritional requirement of parasitoid was tested with different foodstuffs and found 50% honey best suited for maximum longevity 8.2 and 11.4 days for males and females respectively. The longevity ratio also female biased, 1: 1.39 (Male: Female). From the results it concludes that D. insulare fed with 50% honey solution, exposed to 3-5 day old caterpillars of P. xylostella at density of 20 gave maximum progeny production and effectively utilized in the biocontrol programme.

2 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

003513   KADAM D R, JADHAO P B, KALE S S, BHISE G B (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Vasantarao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidhyapeeth, Parbhani, Maharashtra) : Management of onion thrips (Thrips tabaci L.). Int J Entomol Res 2019, 4(3), 23-6.

The experiment was conducted at Experimental Research Farm, Department of Agricultural Entomology, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, during the rabi season of the year 2015-16 to management of onion thrips (Thrips tabaci L.). Minimum thrips population at 14 DAS was noticed from the plots treated with spinosad 45 SC @ 73 g.a.i. ha^-1 (6.80 thrips/ plants) followed by fipronil 5 SC @ 50 g.a.i. ha^-1 ( 7.13 thrips/plant), lamda-cyhalothrin 5 EC @ 15 g.a.i. ha^-1 (7.33), and cypermethrin 25 EC @ 150 g.a.i. ha^-1 (8.46 thrips/plant). These treatments were at par with each other. Within the treatments comparatively maximum thrips count was recorded from plots sprayed with buprofezin 25 SP @ 250 g a.i. ha^-1 (12.06 thrips/plant).

2 illus, 2 tables, 5 ref

003559   MITKU G, DAMTE T (Ethiopian Institute of Agricultural Research, Debre Zeyit, 4, Bishoftu, Ethiopia) : Development, reproduction, and host preference of Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) (Homoptera: Aphididae) on selected lentil genotypes and resistance index of these selected lentil genotypes to pea aphid. Int J Entomol Res 2019, 4(3), 16-22.

The performance and development, and reproduction of the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum Harris (Homoptera: Aphididae) was studied on seven lentil genotypes including: Alemaya, R-186, Chalew, ILL-2595, ILL-4422, and ILL-7664. Hence, the current study was conducted to determine host preference, development, and reproduction of pea aphid in six lentils (Lens culinaris Medikus.) genotypes. Six resistant genotypes and one susceptible accession were included in this study. No-choice study was conducted to determine the development, and reproduction while free choice studies were conducted to determine host preference resistance. The pea aphid fed on the ILL-7664, ILL-2595, and Chalew showed longer pre-reproductive and developmental time, and shorter net reproductive and post-reproductive periods. There were differences in aphid preference among lentil genotypes for the dark choice experiment. Mean survival of the pea aphids fed on ILL-7664, ILL-2595, and Chalew was reduced in comparison to pea aphid fed on another test genotypes. Besides the genotypes were tested in field study to get preliminary information on the association between lath house and field performance. This was done by comparing the yield responses to pea aphid resistant lentil genotypes, found from field screening, to those of the corresponding genotypes which evaluated in the lath house. Based on overall plant resistance index (PRI), ILL-7664 was the most resistant, followed by Chalew and Alemaya but in field performance study done to validate lath house experiment, Alemaya tends to be resistant than Chalew and ILL-7664.

3 illus, 5 tables, 21 ref

003615   SETHI D, MOHANTY S, PATTANAYAK S K (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Odisha Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar- 751 003, Odisha, Email: debadattaouat@gmail.com) : Acid and salt tolerance behavior of Rhizobium isolates and their effect on microbial diversity in the rhizosphere of redgram (Cajanus cajan L.). Indian J Biochem Biophys 2019, 56(3), 245-52.

Experiments were conducted in two phases, first under in vitro condition to study the stress tolerant ability and then in pot experiment to study the effect of Rhizobium isolates on rhizospheric microbial activity. The strain CHRS-7 could tolerate the pH 4.0, whereas RAN-1 and RAB-1 could not. The growth of all the strains was luxuriant in 1 % NaCl solution and decreased with increase in the concentration of NaCl. All the strains could produce the phytohormone indole acetic acid (IAA) by metabolizing different carbon sources. The highest amount of IAA was produced by RAB-1 (81 µg/mL), CHRS-7 (78 µg/mL) and RAN-1 (72 µg/mL) by metabolizing mannitol, glucose , and sucrose, respectively. The higher bacteria and rhizobial population was enumerated in the treatment with inoculation of Rhizobium strains and added with 50 % of soil test dose of nitrogen whereas higher fungi population was enumerated with the treatment receiving 150 % of a soil test dose of nitrogen. The soil enzymes activity, microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen were also higher with a lower dose of external sources of N (50 % of a soil test dose) and decreased with increase in nitrogen dose.

4 illus, 3 tables, 62 ref

003457   CHANHAN P, KONSUE A, NAMMATRA R (Mahasarakham Univ, Maha Sarakham, 44150, Thailand, Email: rachanee.n@msu.ac.th) : Effect of agricultural model of using fertilizer, harvesting time and extraction method on phytochemical contents and antioxidant activities from Mulberry leaves grown in Maha Sarakham Province, Thailand. Pharmacogn J 2019, 11(3), 531-5.

Phytochemical contents and free radical scavenging of Mulberry leaf extracts by using different fertilizer, time of harvesting and solvent extraction were evaluated. Dried Mulberry leaves were extracted by using different solvent including aqueous, 50 % ethanol and 95 % ethanol. The phytochemical screening were determined by Total Phenolic Compounds (TPC) and Total Flavonoid Contents (TFC). The anti-oxidation were tested by using 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazy (DPPH) radical scavenging and 2,2 -azinobis-(3- ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS+) assay. This experimental study found that the mulberry leaf extract were given extraction with 95 % ethanol, all of fertilizer and at Week 4 showed highest total phenolic contents espectcially BET2 was high amount of TPC (124.444 ± 0.609 mgGE/gExt). The harvest time, all of groups at the Week 4 were significantly higher than all of groups at the Week 2. On the other hand, total flavonoid contents, the DET1 (Fertilizer formula 15-15-15, extraction with 95 % ethanol at the Week 2; 110.913 ± 3.208 mgQE/gExt) showed highest amount. The Antioxidant activities, DPPH free radical scavenging activity, The groups were given extraction with 95 % ethanol, all of fertilizer at the Week 4 including CHT2 (IC₅₀ =0.00459 ± 0.00001 mg/mL), BHT2 (IC₅₀ =0.00487 ± 0.00005 mg/mL), AHT2 (IC₅₀ =0.00499 ± 0.00007 mg/mL), DHT2 (IC₅₀ =0.00499 ± 0.00005 mg/mL) and EHT2 (IC₅₀ =0.00667 ± 0.00039 mg/mL) were more potent on free radical scavenging higher than all of groups. The ABTS+ assay, at the Week 2 of all fertilizer groups were given with all solvent extraction including BHT1 (IC₅₀ =0.03191± 0.00257 mg/mL), CHT1 (IC₅₀ =0.03247 ± 0.00044 mg/mL), AHT1 (IC₅₀ =0.03320 ± 0.00120 mg/mL), EHT1 (IC₅₀ =0.03342 ± 0.00116 mg/mL) and AAT1 (IC₅₀ =0.03792 ± 0.00076 mg/mL) showed free radical scavenging activity not different from standard substances, ascorbic acid (IC₅₀ =0.00699 ± 0.00004 mg/mL) and Trolox (IC₅₀ =0.01594 ± 0.00116 mg/mL). The study was undertaken to investigate it’s fertilizer use, harvest time and extraction method for biologically activities also chemical composition contents and their antioxidant potentials. Therefore, our data might be help to good cultivation and harvesting practice selection in order to produce better of mulberry leaf production.

2 tables, 20 ref

003669   TOURE A, ANTOINE-MOUSSIAUX N, GEDA F, KOURIBA A, TRAORÉ D, TRAORE B, LEROY P, MOULA N (Veterinary Management of Animal Resources Dep, Liege Univ, 20, Building B43, 4000 Liege, Belgium, Email: Nassim.Moula@uliege.be) : Phenotypic parameters affecting reproduction and production performances of dairy cattle in peri-urban of Bamako, Mali. Vet World 2019, 12(6), 817-22.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the reproduction and production performances of crossbred and local dairy cattle in peri-urban of Bamako, the capital of Mali. A total of 17 randomly selected households with 450 dairy cattle from four peri-urban of Bamako were individually interviewed, given register format and divided into four focus group discussions. The participants were dairy farmers and they were asked to know the phenotype that seems to them the more interesting for the reproduction and production performances of their dairy cattle. The calving interval (CI) obtained exceeded 433 days in all phenotypic types with average milk yields of 5.13 ± 1.84 kg/day, 4.76 ± 2.41, and 3.05 ± 1.32 kg/day, respectively, for the Holstein crossbred, Montbeliard crossbred, and the local breeds (Zebu Peul and/or Zebu Maure). Crossbred was more productive than local breeds with significant (p<0.05) differences for lactation length, CI and total production and not significant on parity. The results also showed the advantages of the crossbred cows in terms of CI (460 ± 80 days) compared to local zebus breeds (433 ± 115 days) to keep the time of milking as long as possible. However, the Zebu Azawak breed whose cradle is located in Northern Mali, managed under extensive peri-urban rearing conditions, has less favorable production parameters than those of other local cattle breeds in milk production (636 ± 43.3 kg vs. 681 ± 41.1 kg). The present study revealed that crossbred dairy cattle performed better in terms of CI, lactation length, and production compared to the local breeds. The study also showed that the local Azawak breed numerically performed less compared to the other local breeds evaluated in this study, namely, Peul and Maure.

3 illus, 1 table, 35 ref

003434   AUNG M, OHTSUKA H, IZUMI K (Sustainable Agriculture Dep, Rakuno Gakuen Univ, Ebetsu 069-8501, Japan, Email: izmken@rakuno.ac.jp) : Effect of yeast cell wall supplementation on production performances and blood biochemical indices of dairy cows in different lactation periods. Vet World 2019, 12(6), 796-801.

This experiment was conducted to determine the effect of yeast cell wall (YCW) supplementation on production performances and blood biochemical indices such as liver enzyme activities, energy metabolites, and electrolyte concentrations of dairy cows in different lactation periods (LP). Thirty-two lactating Holstein cows were assigned into 2×2 factorial arrangement, in which the factors were the treatment (TM) (control [n=16] vs. YCW [n=16]) and the LP (early lactation [n=14] vs. mid-lactation [n=18]). The cows with day in milk (DIM) <120 (81±7 DIM) were defined as early lactating cows, whereas the cows with DIM >120 (179±5 DIM) were assumed as mid-lactating cows. The YCW (SafMannan; Phileo, Lesaffre Animal Care, France) was used as the dietary supplement (10 g/cow/day) in this experiment. The statistical analysis of the data was performed by the two-way analysis of variance using the general linear model procedure to determine the main effects (TM and LP) and their interaction (TM×LP) on production performances and blood biochemical parameters of experimental cows. No significant effects (p>0.05) of YCW supplementation on production performances and blood biochemical indices of cows in TM groups (control vs. YCW) were observed; however, some obvious effects were detected in LP (early- and mid-lactation). Milk and milk component yield of cows in early lactation were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in mid-lactation, whereas somatic cell count and milk urea nitrogen were not different (p>0.05) with the YCW supplementation. The higher level (p<0.05) of serum albumin was found in mid-lactating cows after YCW supplementation. Before the experiment, the higher (p<0.05) non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA) and NEFA/total cholesterol (T-Cho) ratio, and the lower (p<0.05) calcium (Ca) concentration were observed in early lactating cows comparison with mid-lactating cows; however, there were not different after YCW supplementation. The positive effects of YCW supplementation on milk and milk component yields, energy metabolite, especially NEFA and NEFA/T-Cho ratio and Ca concentration were observed in early lactating cows rather than mid-lactating cows.

4 tables, 20 ref

003508   JAWASREH K I Z, AL-AMAREEN A H, AAD P Y (Animal Production Dep, Jordan Univ of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan, Email: kijawasreh@just.edu.jo) : Growth performance and meat characteristics of the first filial Awassi‑Rambouillet callipyge ram lambs. Vet World 2019, 12(6), 783-8.

This study was designed to introduce the callipyge (CLPG) and 50 % of Rambouillet sheep genes to improve meat quality and quantity of Awassi (AW) sheep. The CLPG mutation was introduced into the AW sheep through frozen semen of homozygous Rambouillet rams for the CLPG mutation. Four ram lambs from the first-generation Rambouillet callipyge Awassi (F1-RCA) and five from pure AW were recruited for a fattening trial conducted in individual pens using standard ration, following which ram lambs were slaughtered for carcass and meat evaluation. Final body weight, dry matter intake, average daily gain, and feed conversion ratio were significantly higher in F1-RCA than AW. Hot and cold carcass weights and the other carcass cuts’ weights, except for the fat tail, were heavier in F1-RCA than AW. There was no difference in dressing percentage between the two genetic groups (p>0.05). All non-carcass components’ weights, except spleen, kidney, and testis, were higher in F1-RCA. Total lean, total bone, and intermuscular fat weight were greater in F1-RCA, but bone-to-lean ratio was lower in F1-RCA when compared with AW (p<0.01). No differences (p>0.05) were observed in all meat quality parameters for muscle longissimus with the exception of pH, redness color, and tenderness that were lower (p<0.05) in F1-RCA than AW. F1-RCA lambs had larger longissimus muscle area (30.9 vs. 16.9 cm² ) and less leg fat depth (11.1 vs. 17.4 mm). : The implications of this research show the potential of 50% of Rambouillet genes and the CLPG mutation to improve growth and meat characteristics in AW-Rambouillet crosses and can be used further to develop a meat-type AW with improved productivity and muscle mass.

3 tables, 29 ref

003607   SALEH B (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Dep, Atomic Energy Commission, P.O.Box 6091, Damascus, Syria, Email: ascientific@aec.org.sy.) : Genetic variability analysis of Ficus sycomorus L. (moraceae) species in Syria. Int J Pharm Life Sci 2019, 10(5), 6224-35.

Ficus sycomorus L. (Moraceae) as a Mediterranean crop suffers from problematic genotyping identification. It is considered as a local natural resource, is threatened with extinction. Genetic diversity and relationships among its genotypes is fundamentally important in its improvement. Thereby, its conservation and genetic characterization is requested. Molecular characterization of 16 F. sycomorus L. genotypes has been assessed using simple sequence repeat (SSR) and inters simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. Data revealed that the selected 14 SSR loci produced 32 alleles of which 18 (56.250 %) were polymorphic. Whereas, the 11 selected ISSR primers produced 74 bands of which 43 (58.108 %) were polymorphic. Cluster analysis of combined SSR and ISSR data together suggests that the 16 studied F. sycomorus genotypes are grouped in two main clusters, based on the estimated percent disagreement values (PDV). Based upon combined SSR and ISSR markers together, the current investigation suggests low genetic variation within studied F. sycomorus L. genotypes.

3 illus, 6 tables, 34 ref

003678   VASHISTHA A, CHAUDHARY A (IMS Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh) : Effects of biocontrol agents and heavy metals in controlling soil-borne phytopathogens. Int J Herb Med 2019, 7(3), 41-5.

In current scenario of agriculture soil borne diseases are of great concern and these are responsible for major crop loss. There is a worldwide need to control the diseases as well as to maintain the quality and abundance of food feed and fodder for the human beings as well as cattles. To overcome this problem different approaches are used to prevent, mitigate or control the plant diseases. Besides depending on synthetic chemicals researches are still going on to search the alternative inputs of biological control. Therefore, in the present study effect of heavy metals and Trichoderma spp. on the growth of microorganism was investigated. Four phytopathogens Fusarium oxysporum, Alternaria solani, Helminthosporium oryzae and Aspergillus species. Were used against Manganese chloride, Mercuric chloride, Copper sulfate, Zinc sulfate, Cadmium sulfate and Cobalt chloride. Morphological alternations and various degree of growth inhibition were reported during this study.

7 illus, 37 ref

003585   PAWAR V Y, MAGAR N M, AWARI V R, KUTE N S, PATIL H T, DESHMUKH G P, KANAWADE D G (Agriculture Coll, Dhule, Maharashtra) : Genotype × environment interactions for grain yield in pearl millet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.]. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(3), 2156-9.

The pearl millet 55 crosses along with eleven inbreds and two checks were used to study stability over four environments viz., E1: Kharif-2013, Dhule, E2: Kharif-2013, Rahuri, E3: Summer-2014, Dhule and E4: Summer-2014, Rahuri. In regards to G x E interaction studies, the mean sum of squares due to genotypes was significant for all the eleven characters studied across the environments, which indicated the presence of substantial variation in the material studied. The analysis also indicated significant variation among the environments for all the characters. The values of G x E interaction were significant for grain yield which indicated that genotypes interacted differently with environmental variations for the said characters. Among the 11 parental genotypes, two parents DHLBI 731 and S-12/30060 had average stability for grain yield and would be well adapted to array of environments. The cross combinations six crosses viz. RHRBI 138 x RHRBI 458, RHRBI 138 x S-12/30060, DHLBI 967 x DHLBI 731, DHLBI 967 x ICMB 98222, DHLBI 967 x S-12/30088, S-12/30060 x S-12/30074 and check Shanti had average stability and well adaption to all types of environment for grain yield. Hybrid S-12/30109 x S-12/30060 and check Dhanshakti had above average stability and adapted to poor environment, while five cross combination had below average stability for grain yield. Out of six stable cross combinations, three had one of the parent either DHLBI 731 or S-12/30060 which may have genes for average stability for grain yield which can further utilized in crossing programme in order to generate wide genetic variability for developing high yielding and stable hybrids/varieties/population of pearl millet.

3 tables, 10 ref

003472   DHONGADE A P, KORADE S B, JADHAV N D (Plant Physiology Dep, Agriculture Coll, Nagpur, Maharashtra) : Experimental study on biochemical parameters and yield of M₄ Indian mustard mutants. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(3), 2115-8.

To study the proximate biochemical composition and yield of twenty M₄ Indian mustard mutants, an experiment was conducted and work was subjected to the comparative evaluation of its chemical and biochemical parameters viz., total chlorophyll, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, protein, and oil. Among these twenty mutants, the highest chlorophyll, N, P, K at 25, 45, and 65 DAS, and protein and oil after harvesting was obtained from ACM₁₈, ACM₁₂, ACM₆, ACM₈ and ACM₄. In case of proximate analysis, the highest chlorophyll, N, P, K, protein and oil were recorded from ACM₁₈. The oil content of different mutants of mustard varied from (33.30 - 42.67 %). ACM₁₈ (28.13 %) contained the highest amount of seed protein. All the chemical and biochemical traits were showed highly significant and positive correlation with seed yield. Substantial genetic variability exists for chemical composition and nutritional traits which could be utilized to suggest the future strategy. Hence, these five mutants are recommended for breeding programme and testing.

1 table, 18 ref

003505   JANGDE T, SHARMA G, JANGDE B, BANJARA N C (Floriculture and Landscape Architecture Dep, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur, Chhattisgarh) : Evaluation of gerbera (Gerbera jamesonii) cultivars under naturally ventilated polyhouse in Chhattisgarh plain. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(3), 2112-4.

A study was undertake to evaluate six gerbera cultivars under naturally ventilated polyhouse. Experiment was carried out during the year 2015-16 in winter season at the Centre of Excellence on protected cultivation (DTTC), Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, IGKV, Raipur (C.G.). The cultivars evaluated were 1133, Alcochete, Toscana, Corona, Fredi and Livia. The plants were grown on raised bed at 25 cm × 25 cm. Maximum plant height and leaf length (55.51 cm), (42.16 cm) was registered for cv Livia, Corona had higher plant spread, Leaf breadth and number of suckers per plant (86.05 cm), (11.44 cm) and (2.18) was observed. Fredi was recorded more number of leaves (20.15) and flowers (10.26) per plant.

1 table, 6 ref

003649   SIVAKUMAR G, SARAVANAPERUMAL M, SRINIVASAPERUMAL A P, KALAISUDARSON S (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar, Tamil Nadu) : Effect of bone sludge a by-product of ossein industry on the economics of ragi cultivation. J Pharmacogn Phytochem 2019, 8(3), 2099-101.

Field experiment was conducted at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Annamalainagar to study the effect of utilization of bone sludge, by-product of ossein industry as manure on the yield and economics of ragi cultivation during April – August 2017. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with eleven treatments and replicated thrice. The results of the present investigation revealed that the yield components of ragi viz., number of ear heads m^-2 , number of fingers ear^-1 , and number of grains ear head^-1 , thousand grain weight, grain yield and straw yield were favourably influenced by the use of bone sludge. Application of bone sludge at the rate of 10 t ha^-1 + recommended NPK recorded the highest grain yield of 3584 kg ha^-1 and registered a maximum benefit cost ratio of 1.95. This was followed by the integrated application of bone sludge at the rate of 7.5 t ha^-1 + recommended NPK with a benefit cost ratio of 1.87.

2 tables, 7 ref