029848   SAPKAL V, PATIL S, SAPKAL D, YADAV R, RAMAWAT N (Agriculture Coll, Nagpur, Maharashtra, Email: vaishalisapkal15@gmail.com) : Genetic variability studies of some quantitative traits in advanced biparental progeny lines of mustard. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1925-32.

Information about the genetic variability and the extent and type of relationship of some quantitative characters in Indian mustard is important for an efficient breeding program. Eighty eight advanced biparental progenies along with six checks (RH-819, Geeta, Pusa bold, Varuna, Ashirwad, ACN-9) were evaluated in two replications with the objectives to estimate between family and within family variances, to estimate genetic parameters and to identify superior progenies at experimental farm of Agricultural Botany section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur during rabi 2013. Data were recorded on days to maturity, plant height, number of branches plant^-1, number of siliqua plant^-1, seed yield plant^-1, chlorophyll content index and leaf relative water content. Analysis of variance indicated that the mean squares due to between families were highly significant for six traits which revealed the presence of significant genetic variability between the families. Inter class correlation (t) lead to the conclusion that differences between individuals within family is large and each family differentiated distinctly from the other one at lower level in both the generations and hence, equal weightage to σ²f and σ²w were suggested to be considered for selection. Genetic parameters estimated revealed that number of siliqua plant^-1 and seed yield plant^-1 were the only two characters which were found to be influenced by additive gene action and selection would be effective in improving these traits.

3 tables, 19 ref

029886   VAKHNY S, KHAKHULA V, FEDORUK Y, GRABOVSKYI M, HERASOMENKY L, KARPUK L M (Technologies in Plant Growing and Plant Protection Dep, Bila Tserkva National Agrarian Univ, Kyiv region- 09117, Ukraine) : Miscanthus productivity formation for biofuel production that depending of differs on density of standing plants. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1920-4.

Energy plays a leading role in the economic development of Ukraine. We can observe a reduction in consumption of fossil energy resources (gas and oil), and the need of their rational use. Therefore, the creation of its own renewable energy source based on the cultivation and processing of plant bioenergetic raw materials is promising. In many world countries the basis for bioenergy and the most suitable raw material for the production of solid biofuels are perennial grains. Specially grown biomass that can be used for biofuel production has a number of characteristics that differ from traditional fossil fuels. The most important fuel and energy characteristic of raw materials is its calorific value, which depends on a number of factors: the genetic characteristics of the crop, the content of cellulose, pectin, polymer and phenolic resins; humidity; conditions of growing and storage of raw materials. This article presents the results of studies on growth, development, productivity, release of biofuel and energy of miscanthus, depending on the varying density of rhizome planting. It is established that high productivity of dry mass, the greatest release of energy from solid biofuel, obtained from one hectare(ha) of miscanthus plantations, is provided at a density of 20 thousand rhizome / ha. of standing plants and is 16.7 T/ ha dry weight, 18.3 T/ ha solid biofuel and 307.7 GJ / ha of energy.

2 tables, 17 ref

029859   SINGH A, SENTHILKUMAR S, SHARMA M, SINGH S K (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 411, Email: senthil.19420@lpu.co.in) : Impact of mulching and planting density on phenology, yield and fruiting characters of strawberry (Fragaria X ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1899-904.

Mulching and planting density plays a vital role in influencing positive impact on yield and quality in strawberry production. Improper mulching and planting density promotes undersized, compact and unmarketable fruit with high disease incidence, results in lesser productivity. An investigation was conducted at University Orchard, Lovely Professional University, Punjab to study the impact of different mulching and planting density practices on the performance of strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) cv. Winter Dawn. The results revealed that the phenological traits like ‘Number of leaves per plant’, ‘plant spread’ and ‘leaf area’ found to be maximum with M₂ (Green mulch) and planting density of S₃ (30 × 45 cm). With regard to the effect of mulches on yield characters the treatment M₂ (Green mulch) in combination with the planting density S₃ (30 × 45 cm) showed increased value for ‘fruit set percentage’, ‘yield per plant’, including several fruiting parameters viz., ‘fruit length’, ‘fruit girth’ and ‘fruit weight’.

4 tables, 21 ref

029779   KUMAR R, KANWAR H S, SHARMA M K (Dr. Y. S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Spiti (Himachal Pradesh), Email: rajeev2287@gmail.com) : Studies on effect of different seed rate and row spacing on green pea pod production in cold desert region of H.P., India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1895-8.

A field experiment on effect of different seed rate and row spacing on green pod production of pea was carried out at Regional Horticultural Research Sub Station, Dr. Y. S. Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Tabo, Spiti, Himachal Pradesh, India during summer of year 2015 and 2016. There was significant interaction effect of seed rates and line spacing on the parameters like percent seed germination in field, pod length (cm), pod yield per plot (kg) and pod yield per ha (qt) during both the years. Maximum green pod yield per plot and per ha was observed in treatment combination of highest seed rate of 150 kg/ha and line spacing of 30 cm during both the year which was statistically at par with treatment combination of highest seed rate and line spacing of 22.5 cm. At closer row spacing of 22.5 cm there was lesser problem of lodging and stacking is also not required. Hence, highest seed rate of 150 kg/ha along with 22.5 cm can be preferred for growing late season varieties of pea in high hills of cold desert region of Himachal Pradesh.

2 tables, 5 ref

029708   AL-MAYYAHI S O M (Wasit Univ, Wasit, Iraq) : Assessment of heavy metals pollution in the sediments surrounding of Badra oil field, Wasit, Iraq. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1889-94.

Ten samples were collected from the sediments around Badra Oil field area, Wasit governorate, eastern Iraq. The collected samples have been analyzed for Fe, Co, Zn, Cu, Ni and Pb heavy metals to detect the sediment pollution in the study area by using three main indices; “geo- accumulation (I- geo), pollution load index (PLI) and contamination factor (CF)”. I-Geo shows that the Pb and CO were found negative in all the sites, ranging from -0.72 to -0.51 and -1.26 to -0.12 respectively, these results are of (class 0) which indicates that the concentrations of Pb and CO in the sediments of these sites are unpolluted. The Ni and Fe‚ Oƒ were found positive in all the sites, ranging from 0.87 to 1.05 and 0.37 to 1.3 respectively, these results are of (class 1) to (class 2) which indicates that the concentrations of Niand Fe‚ Oƒ in the sediments of these sites are slightly polluted to moderately pollute. The Cu was found positive in the all sites, ranging from 0.42 to 2.29, these results are of (class 1) to (class 3), which indicates that the concentrations of Cu in the sediments of these sites are slightly polluted to moderately severely polluted. The Zn had positive values in the all sites, ranging between 0.21 to 0.76. These results are of (class 1) which indicates that the concentrations of Zn in the sediments of these sites are slightly polluted. The contamination factor (CF) for Lead (Pb), Fe₂O₃ and Co in all sites classified as “class 1” representing a low contamination, to ‘‘class 2’’ representing moderate contamination, Cu in all sites classified as “class 1” representing a low contamination, to class 4 Very high contamination. The (CF) Contamination factor for Zn in all the studied sites classified as “class 2” Moderate contamination. The CF for Ni classified as class 2 which indicate moderately contamination to Considerable contamination “class 3”. PLI values in the studied sites are ranging from 1.55 to 2.59 classified as class 2 (Deterioration on site quality) indicating local pollution. The indication of slightly to moderately polluted of sediments in the studied area may be as a result of anthropogenic activities, oil spilling, and daily toxic wastes.

4 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

029866   SINGH T, RAWAT M, SINGH S K, KUMAR M (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara, Email: monisha.22692@lpu.co.in) : Impact of biofertilizer application on dry matter production and harvesting index in Colocasia esculenta (L.) Schottvar. Antiquorum. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1875-8.

An experiment was conducted during the year 2016-17 at the Agricultural Research Farm of the School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India to investigate the effect of biofertilizer application on the dry matter content and harvest index of Arvi (a type of Taro). The study was carried out in a two factorial RBD with five treatments and three replications. Two varieties namely Gurdaspuri Local and Desi Arvi were grown with at a spacing of 45 x 20 cm. It was found that maximum dry matter content was recorded in the treatment T₅ in Gurdaspuri Local (12.58 %) and in T₃ in Desi Arvi (20.71 %), while the harvesting index of Gurdaspuri local ranged from 0.408 in T₃ to 0.862 in T₂ while of Desi Arvi variety ranged from 0.351 in T₅ to 1.454 in T₃, which may be due to the greater accumulation of photosynthates in corms because of the application of biofertilizers like PSB or Azotobacter or VAM.

1 illus, 1 table, 9 ref

029868   SINGLA R, KUMARI P, SHARMA R, THANESHWARI, SAHARE H A (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar-144 411, Email: poonamjaswalfls@gmail.com) : Correlation studies in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) genotypes. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1871-4.

The present investigation was carried out with an aim to study the correlation between various morphological traits of okra genotypes. Various morphological parameters viz., days to germination, plant height (cm), number of branches per plant, number of pods per plant, days required for first flowering, days required for 50 % flowering, fruit length (cm), fruit weight (g) and yield per plant (g) were recorded. Correlation studies at phenotypic and genotypic level revealed that fruit yield per plant had significant positive correlation with plant height, number of branches and fruit weight.

2 tables, 18 ref

029822   PANDEY M K, BIND H N, SINGH B N (Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar, Punjab, Email: manojpandeygpb@gmail.com) : Selection parameters against leaf blight screeningfor enhancing grain yield under saline soils in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L. Emthell.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1865-70.

Analysis of variance, genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV), heritability and genetic advance (GA) in 143 genotypes of bread wheat including three checks KRL-210, NW-2036, NW-1067 were evaluated during 2010-11. The mean sums of squares due to checks were greatly significant for all the eleven traits excluding peduncle length and plant height while mean squares due to blocks were non–significant for all the traits excluding plant height and grain yield. GCV were close to PCV for every trait. Maximum appraisals of heritability and genetic advance were indicated through plant height follow by flag leaf area, test weight and biological yield per plantrespectively. High heritability and high genetic advance indicated that the heritability is due to additive nature of gene action and reliability of these characters in subsequent generation through selection for developing high yielding cultivar resistant against Leaf blight.

5 tables, 17 ref

029709   AL-OBAIDI A F (Horticulture Science Dep, Anbar Univ, Iraq, Email: drahmed628@gmail.com) : Phytotoxicity of Plantago major extracts on germination and seedling growth of Purslane (Portuleca olerceus). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1859-64.

Plantago major L. (Plantaginaceae family) have been used as herbal remedies for centuries in almost all over the world and in the treatment of a number diseases. This study aims to assess the allelopathic potential of Plantago major extracts on the germination and early seedling growth of purslane. Total phenols, tannins, saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids were determined in P. major. Furthermore, concentrations of 2.5, 5, 10, 20, and 40 mg.ml^-1 of both alcoholic and aqueous extracts were prepared to study their phytotoxic effect on the germination and seedling growth of Portuleca olerceus weed. In our study, showing the germination of P. olerceus was completely inhibited (96.30 mg.ml^-1) under treatment of P. major methanolic extracts at 40 mg ml^-1. Moreover, both radicle and plumule were strongly inhibited (87.20 and 74.29 mg.ml^-1, respectively) under the same treatment. This could be attributed to the high content of bioactive constituents. Therefore, this species can be used in the method of biological control of weeds. In addition, further studies are required to identify and characterize the proper allelochemicals and demonstrate their modes of action.

3 illus, 1 table, 51 ref

029784   KUMAR S, SHARMA R C (Agricultural Extension Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalay, Harda - 461 331, Email: sarveshkvkharda@gmail.com) : Analysing productivity and knowledge enhancement of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) farmers through KVK training intervention in Madhya Pradesh, India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1855-8.

This study was conducted in Harda district of Madhya Pradesh state during 2016-17 to analysing the productivity and knowledge enhancement of the farmers through KVK training programmes of wheat farmers. A sample of 180 farmers (90 trained and 90 Untrained) was interviewed to draw responses by tested semi-structural interview schedule. It was found that effective training programme conducted before the sowing season of crop play very significant role in upgrading the knowledge and skill level of the farmers. Trained category possessed higher level of knowledge about improved wheat cultivation techniques. Hence, farmers from trained category achieved higher productivity of wheat at their farms than to untrained one.

1 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

029887   VANI D P D, KUMAR B, BAVEESH P, KAUR A, TAMATAM D, KUMAR A (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 411, Email: divya0706@gmail.com) : Combining ability and genetic advance in different parents' performance in maize. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1841-6.

The investigation was conducted in Randomized block design in 3 replications at Experimental Farm during 2015-16, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab, India. The estimates of general combining ability revealed that the line CM 149 and BML15 and the tester BH19 are good general combiners for all the traits. The hybrids KMH 408710 × CM201, KMH408710 × BML15, KMH408710 × CM201, BH19 × BML7 and BH19 × CML440 showed best performance for all the characters under study based on specific combining ability. The high heritability (narrow sense) was observed for plant height (78.1555 %), 100 grain weight (65.1828 %). High value of genetic advance was observed to be highest for plant height (42.0433) followed by number of seeds per cob (32.256). The hybrids that exhibited heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for the grain yield and its contributing characters like plant height, days to 50 % tasselling, days to 50% silking, ear length, ear girth, number of rows per cob, number of kernals per row, number of cobs per plant, number of seeds per cob, grain yield per plant and 100 grain weight are BML15 × KMH408710, CML440 × BH19 and CM149 × BH19. Thus, these hybrids can be utilized further in crop improvement programmes.

7 tables, 12 ref

029899   YADAV V P, RANWAH B R, NIGAM S N, SHUKLA G P, KUMAR R V (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Email: vp_yadav@yahoo.com) : Progenies selection for drought tolerance in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) through indirect (trait based) selection method. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1830-4.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is grown as an important oil-seed, food legume and cash crop mainly in rain-fed conditions between 40° N and 40° S latitudes. Over two third of the global peanut production occurs in seasonally rain-fed regions where drought is a potential constraint for crop production (Smartt 1994). Genetic management which leads development of drought tolerant varieties is one of the important options to get rid of the situation. Genetic enhancement to maximize crop production per unit input of water has been a major research thrust of crop improvement programs throughout the world. In field crops where breeding for drought tolerance has been a focus for many years, empirical breeding methods have been the most successful. An alternative approach is traits based selection in which lines are selected on the bases of specific traits determined to be beneficial under water deficit conditions (Bidinger and Witcombe, 1989). In the present study promising progenies for drought tolerance through traits based selection approach have been identified.

4 tables, 7 ref

029840   SAED Z J M, MAOHAMMAD T T, FARHAN S M (Animal Production Dep, Anbar Univ, Anbar, Iraq, Email: ag.zaid.jameel@uoanbar.edu.iq) : Effect of ginger and celery seeds as feed additives on reproductive performance of broiler breeder males. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1823-9.

The present study was part of project designed to assess the effect of induction of graduate ginger and crushed celery seeds in treatment diet on reproduction performance. In previous work were evaluated how these nutrients affect the egg quality in a particular internal egg quality. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of basal diet supplementation with 2.5 and 5 g/kg diet of each ginger and crushed seeds of celery on semen quality, testes histology, fertility and hatchability of broiler breeder males was evaluated. In experiment 1, broiler breeder males were individually caged from 24 to 38 weeks old and divided into five group, 6 males per group, semen was collected twice weekly. T1 control group treated with basal diet, T2 and T3 ginger groups treated birds (ginger 2.5 and 5 g/ kg basal diet), T4 and T5 celery seeds groups treated birds (2.5 and 5 g/ kg basal diet). Experiment 2, laying hens 600 and 60 rosters (ROSS) were housed in 20 floor pen, from 26 to 38 weeks of age were divided into five treatment groups with four replicate (30 hens + 3 rosters) and were natural mating and received as in experiment one. Eggs collected from each replicate eggs for each replicate at end weeks 32 and 36 weeks of age. Rate of fertility and hatchability was evaluated. Semen variables were evaluated, testes histology were measured, and hatchability each 4 weeks were recorded. Semen volume, sperm concentration, number of sperm per ejaculate, motility and viability were affected by ginger and crushed celery seeds supplementation. Testes histology fertility and hatchability and displayed a positive trend in treatment groups fertility was better in ginger and celery crushed seeds than control group. It was concluded that the inclusion 2.5 and 5 g/kg diet. Ginger or crused celery seeds could be improve reproductive performance of broiler breeder males.

4 tables, 40 ref

029725   BABU B R, SINGH K, JINDAL S K, JAWANDHA S K, NARSAIAH K, ALAM M S (Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural Univ, Andhra Pradesh- 534101, Email: rameshhort@gmail.com) : Storage behavior of modified atmosphere packed tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) treated with aqueous 1-methycyclopropene. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1809-13.

A two year study was carried out to know the storage behavior of 1-Methylcyclopropene treated tomato (cv. Punjab Ratta) in modified atmosphere package during their storage at 13 ± 20 °C and relative humidity of 85-90 %. Modified Atmosphere packed tomato fruits were treated with aqueous solutions of 1-methylcyclopropene at 6 mg/L, 12 mg/L and 18 mg/L and untreated control (without 1-MCP) and evaluated for various quality attributes at weekly intervals at 1st, 8th, 15th, 22nd, 29th and 36th day of storage. Study revealed that tomato treated with higher concentrations of 1-methycyclopropene resulted in significant lower ripening index, higher hue angle, titratable acidity and firmness compared to control (without 1-MCP) at different days of storage. Significant higher titratable acidity was recorded at the end of the storage (36th day of storage) when tomatoes treated with 1-MCP at 18 mg/L over other treatments. Till 29th day of storage, tomato treated with 1-MCP at 12 mg/L retained the fruits in acceptable red stage than by other 1-MCP treatments. However, at the end of the storage (36th day of storage), tomato treated with 1-MCP at all concentrations recorded higher hue angle above 400 (overripe stage) than in control (below 400 ). Similarly, modified atmosphere packed tomato fruits treated with 1-methycyclopropene at 18 mg/L recorded significant higher firmness (N) at all the days of analysis compared to other 1-MCP treatments and control.

5 tables, 20 ref

029726   BARADHAN G, KUMAR S M S (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Studies on the effect of integrated nutrient management in yield of maize (Zea mays L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1795-800.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crop in the world agriculture as food, feed and industrial raw material which ranked third important cereal crop next to rice and wheat in the World. In India, it is grown in more than 8.69 million hectares, having a production of 21.81 million tonnes and average productivity of 2509 kg ha^-1 (Agri. Stat. 2016). However, the average crop yield of 2.50 t ha^-1 is still very low as compared to the other Asian countries like Bangladesh (6.8 t ha^-1), China (5.7 t ha^-1), Indonesia (4.6 t ha^-1) and Pakistan (3.8 t ha^-1). Over reliance on use of chemical fertilizers has been associated with declines in soil physical and chemical properties and crop yield and significant land problems, such as soil degradation due to over exploitation of land and soil pollution caused by high application rates of fertilizers and pesticide application. Efficacy of organic sources to meet the nutrient requirement of crop is not as assured as mineral fertilizers, but the joint use of chemical fertilizers along with various organic sources is capable of improving soil quality and higher crop productivity on long- term basis in maize cultivation. The field experiment was carried out during March to June, 2014 and was conducted in randomized block design with three replications. All the treatments were found to significantly influence the growth and yield components of maize. Among the integrated nutrient management practices evaluated, 100 per cent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 resulted in the enhanced values of various growth and yield attributes viz., plant height, leaf area index, dry matter production, cob length, cob diameter, number of grains cob^-1 and yield of maize. . Application of 75 per cent RDF alone resulted in the lowest values of the growth and yield components of maize. It may be inferred that application of vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 along with 100 per cent recommended N, P and K holds promise as an eco-friendly and economically viable integrated nutrient management practice for increasing the yield of maize.

2 tables, 22 ref

029778   KUMAR P, PATHAK S, AMARNATH K S, TEJA P V B, DILEEP B, KUMAR K, SINGH M, SIDDIQUE A (Agronomy Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar - 144 411, Email: anaytullahsiddiquelpu@gmail.com) : Effect of growth regulator on morpho-physiological attributes of chilli : A case study. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1771-6.

The present study was undertaken with F1 hybrid JUGNI-070 variety of chilli. This solanaceous vegetable was cultivated in order to observe the effect of four growth regulators viz; Indole-3-Acetic Acid, Gibberellic acid, Putrescine and Salicyclic acid of some parameters during kharif season of 2017-2018. The parameters are plant height, number of leaves, number of stem, number of fruits and average weight of the fruits. The field allotted was divided into ten ridges Rows 1-10. In R1-R2 was allocated as control, in R3-R4 IAA @ 1 ppm was sprayed and R5-R6 Salicyclic acid @ 1 ppm was sprayed and R7-R8 Putrescine @ 1ppm was sprayed, R9-10 GA3 @ 1 ppm was sprayed, all the plant growth regulators were sprayed once at 30 days after transplanting and the results were observed after 5th and 10th days of all rows. The data was collected from randomly selected plants of each rows and the mean data was calculated. The results obtained from each rows were compared. The results revealed showed significant improvement in overall growth and development of plant in R9 rows, where plant growth regulator GA3 was used as indicated by the increase in plant height, number of leaves and number of stems. Where as in R7-8 where Putrescine was sprayed there was no significant increase in overall growth and development of the plant only the number of bud formation was observed high i.e. whereas R5 & R6, where salicyclic was sprayed, but there is no growth is observed, whereas R3-4 IAA were used in which it results the stem development is observed.

9 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

029701   AL-GASIMI A S, YEASER A K, SOHEEP M W, BHIAH K M (Soil Science and Water Resources Dep, Kufa Univ, Iraq) : Effect of adding different levels of fermented Nile flower plant (organic fertilizer) in some soil chemical properties, nutrients contents and wheat plant growth. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1767-70.

This experiment was undertaken in 2017 at Dhi Qar province, Iraq. Five levels of fermented plant, Nile flower, (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 t ha^-1) were applied before planting with three replications in wooden boxes (48 cm length × 28 cm width). Wheat was ormally planted for 60 days after fertilization by N, P and K. Finally the plants were cut to determine the dry weight, concentration and uptake of N, P, K and Ca by plant, and soil EC. Results reveal that the adding of different levels of fermented organic fertilizer has significantly affected in some chemical properties of soil, and its content of nutrient elements and wheat growth. Results also showed that the high N, P, K and Ca content in Nile flower, which were 1.25, 0.45, 0.78 and 1.38 % respectively. The level 4 t ha^-1 was better in dry weight, concentration and absorption of N, P, K and Ca compared to other levels (0, 2, 6 and 8 t ha^-1).

7 tables, 14 ref

029839   SADDY I H A, BHANDAR L K (Animal Production Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq) : Effect of feeding different levels of evening primrose oil (EPO) on the production performance and some quality traits of laying hens egg. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1761-6.

A research was conducted to estimate the effect of feeding different levels of Evening Primrose Oil (EPO) on production performance and egg quality traits in laying chicken diets. The experiment involving 240, ISA Brown laying chickens were randomly allotted to four treatments (each treatment 60 birds, three replicates, and 20 birds per replicate) and were fed for 20 weeks divided into 5 periods included: period 1 (31-34 ), period 2 (35-38), period 3 (39-42), period 4 (43-46), and period 5 (47- 50). The treatments were included: T1 (control) – basal diet without supplementation, T2 basal diet + 25 % of EPO, T3 basal diet + 50 % of EPO, T4 basal diet + 75 % of EPO. Significantly, T4 showed an increase in weight of the egg during 39-42 weeks of the production period whereas an increase in the egg weight during 43-46 weeks and during 47-50 weeks in T2, T4 compared to T1, T2 was conducted. Furthermore, insignificant differences in proportion of the egg production and cumulative egg production for all treatments were noted. Feed intake was significantly (p < 0.05) decreased in T2, T3, T4 compared to T1 during the production period in additionat period 5, there was no significant difference between all the treatments in regard to feed conversion coefficient except for T2 where a significant decrease was detected. For egg quality traits, a significant improving was noted in average of eggshell thickness and the relative weight of eggshell moreover, insignificant differences between the treatments in the relative weight of albumen and albumen index were acknowledged.

8 tables, 24 ref

029893   WADHAVANE J B, AVINASHE H A, DUBEY N (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: havinashe@gmail.com) : Assessment of combining ability and heterosis for yield and yield related traits in maize (Zea mays L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1756-60.

The present investigation was conducted at Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar, Punjab during 2015-2016. The experimental material consisted of 7 inbreed lines with 3 tester in maize and 21 F₁s, along with one check (P-1543). All these are were grown in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications. The hybrids were evaluated to know the extent of heterosis and combining ability for grain yield per plant, yield contributing characters in maize. Considerable variability existed among the genotypes for all the characters studied as observed from the significant mean squares due to genotypes. Combining ability analysis showed the predominant role of non-additive gene action for all characters studied. The line I-07-19-6 was found to be good general combiner and tester CML-269 was found average combiners for grain yield per plant. Crosses I-07-19-6 x CM-140, I-07-19-5 x CML-269 and I-07- 26-7 × CML-269 revealed high specific combining ability effects for grain yield per plant. The hybrids I-07-19-6 × CM-140, I07-19-2 × HKI-193-1 and I-07-19-5 × CML-269 were identified as superior hybrids as it recorded high percentage of relative heterosis, heterobeltiosis and standard heterosis for grain yield per plant along with other characters. These hybrids were identified as potential hybrids for widespread cultivation and commercial exploitation.

5 tables, 16 ref

029782   KUMAR S, BANKOLIYA M K, SHARMA R C (Agricultural Science Centre, Harda-461 331, Email: sarveshkvkharda@gmail.com) : Analyzing vertical impact and extension gap of integrated disease management module against Fusarium wilt in chickpea through field demonstrations in Madhya Pradesh. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1751-5.

Study was carried out in Harda district falls under Central Narmada Valley agro climatic region of state Madhya Pradesh in central India. The district is situated 302 m higher from the sea level with geographic position between 210 53’ & 220 36’ Longitude and between 760 47’& 770 20’ Latitude. The district feels maximum temperature up to 480 °C and minimum up to 60 °C and covers dominantly medium to heavy black soils and 1267.7 mm average annual rainfall. Chickpea is a very important pulse crop in district but due to improper adoption of improved disease management technology its productivity is far below the average productivity of the state. The 36 Front Line Demonstration (FLD) at farmers’ field in the villages of Harda district during 2014-15 to 20116-17. Total 36 farmers were selected randomly from three blocks namely Harda, Timarani and Khirkiya in each year. The study was conducted to observe the vertical impact (yield enhancement) and extension gap in chickpea against the existing disease management practices by farmers. During 1st year (2014-15) the integrated disease management module against fusarium wilt disease in Chickpea performed well with an average yields of 14.60 q/ha over the farmers yield (12.20 q/ha) means an average 19.67 per cent yield was reaped from demonstrated plot. On the basis of 1st year result the demonstration was continued during 2015-16 and 2016-17. The three year average data reveals that grain yield of chickpea was increased by 2.40 q/ha (2014-15), 3.40 q/ha (2015-16) and 2.60 q/ha (2016-17) over the yield obtained by farmers’ practice. The average yield of chickpea was increased over farmers practice 2.80 q/ha of worth Rs. 12320/ha (calculated as per MSP of chickpea for year 2017-18 Rs 4400/q) as additional return from demonstration fields over farmers’ practice. This increase was with an average additional cost of Rs. 2400 per ha which is very less and even small and marginal farmers could also afford. An extension gap ranging from 2.40-3.40 kg per hectare was found between demonstration plots and farmers practices during the different years of trials.

5 tables, 6 ref

029765   KAUR A, MIRZA A (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: anis.19474@lpu.co.in) : Corollary use of mulches and PGR's on physicochemical properties of strawberry (Fragaria X ananassa) cv. Camarosa in polytunnel. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1745-50.

The present aim was to study the response of different mulches and PGR’s on growth, yield and quality of Strawberry cv. Camarosa in polytunnel. Strawberry has a very high nutritive value and is a good source of vitamin C, carbohydrates, fats, protein, potassium with several other dietary minerals. The experiment consists of 11 treatments and was laid out in RBD. GA₃ and NAA were used at concentrations of 50 and 100 ppm in combination with three mulching materials viz., black, white polyethylene and straw mulch. The results show that maximum plant height (22 cm), no of leaves/plant (44.66), leaf area (19.50 cm²) was recorded in GA₃ 100 ppm with white transparent mulch, whereas number of flowers (15.33), number of fruits (14), fruit weight (11.80 gm), yield (146.53 g), TSS (9.30B), acidity (0.70 %) and ascorbic acid (56.76 mg) was recorded high with the application of GA₃ 100 ppm + Black polyethylene mulch. It was concluded that integration of PGR application with mulching significantly affects the plant growth, yield and quality.

3 illus, 3 tables, 43 ref

029713   ALI A H, MANSORR H N (Field Crop Dep, Al-Qasim Green Univ, Hilla, Iraq, Email: dr.ayad24@yahoo.com) : Effect of imposed water stress at certain growth stages on growth and yield of barley grown under different planting patterns. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1735-44.

A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of water stress on spring barley Hordeum vulgare L. which was planted with different patterns. A six rows barley (cv. Iba. 99) was grown with four planting patterns as main plots (broadcasting, drilling, broadcasting with ridge and drilling on raised – bed. Sub – plots were assigned for four watering treatments e.g. frequent irrigation after depletion 50 % of available water as control (S₀), skipping irrigation at tillering (S₁), at booting (S₂) and at grain filling (S₃) stages. The results revealed that S₁ and S₂ caused a reduction in the number of tillers (by 12 % and 2 %), plant height (15 % and 2 %), flag leaf area (12 % and 1 %), dry weight of the flag leaf (10 % and 4 %) spike weight, (8 % and 1 %), root dry weight (14 % and 6 %) and chlorophyll content of flag leaf (4 % and 7 %) at two stages (tillering and booting), respectively. These reduction were reflected reduced of biological yield and grain yield components. Grain weight was decreased only in S₃ treatment (grain filling) by 21 % compared to the control (S₀).

6 tables, 32 ref

029843   SAHU B, SAMAIYA R K, SINGH Y, DWIVEDI S K (Plant Breeding & Genetics Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur - 482 004, Email: yogendrasinghbt@gmail.com) : Differential responses of various amino acid based growth substances on biochemical estimations, yield and yield components of soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1730-4.

Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) belongs to family Fabaceae is one of the most important protein and oilseed crops throughout the world. Its oil is the largest component of the world's edible oils. It is native of China. It has emerged as one of the important commercial crops in many countries. Soybean is also known as the “Golden bean” or “Miracle crop” because of its multiple uses. Higher seed yield of any crop can be achieved only through proper combinations of a cultivar, environment and agronomic practices. The basic component of living cells is proteins, with building block material, Amino acids. Studies have proved that Amino acids can directly or indirectly influence the physiological activities of the plant. In present study field experiments were conducted at the Research Farm Adhartal, Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P.) during Kharif season of 2015-2016. The experiment was laid out in RBD with thirteen replications. Sampling for growth analysis was done at the fixed intervals of 15 days from 20 days after sowing onwards till harvest. Five plants were randomly selected from each treatment and replications for growth analysis and biochemical estimations were carried out at maturity stage .Result revealed that treated soybean possessed higher number of seeds/plant (95.66), seed index (7.70 g), which in turn had reflected in highest seed yield (11.06 g/plant and 1317 kg/ha). Treated plants were registered highest biological yield performance (23.37 g/plant) and (3008.59 kg/ha) resultant of comparatively higher magnitudes of physiological parameters. Treated plants also possessed higher protein (%) (38.40), carbohydrate (%) (28.27), fibre (%) (4.13) and fat (%) (18.71).

2 tables, 19 ref

029756   JADHAV R K (D.G. Ruparel Coll, Mumbai-400 016) : Yeast utilizing deproteinised leaf juice (DPJ) as a medium for growth and production of metabolites. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1716-20.

In the process of Green Crop Fractionation (GCF) , the pulp was squeezed to obtain juice and the proteins isolated by heating by forming PC (pressed crop). This filtered whey is called as Deproteinised Leaf Juice (DPJ). The residue obtained after filtration of Juice is called as Leaf Protein Concentrate (LPC). In the present investigation, the DPJ was utilised for fermentation of Yeast and the culture filtrates were employed for study of hydrolytic enzymes. It was observed that DPJ enhanced the mycelial weight of yeast when used as the medium for growth. Different deproteinised leaf extracts were prepared and the yeast was fermented. When DPJ enriched with glucose it showed reduction in mycelia as compared with DPJ alone when was used. It indicated DPJ alone sufficient for yeast growth. The culture filtrates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae grown on DPJ were obtained and employed for study of enzyme productivity of amylase, protease, cellulase and lipase by cup plate method. It was found that the diameter of zones of enzymes amylases and cellulases were maximum by Oat (Avena sativa L.) DPJ. Enzymes proteases expressed by almost all deproteinised leaf extracts.

6 illus, 3 tables, 32 ref

029700   AL-DAHAMI H S, HASSAN S A, ALKKHAFAJI K A A (Ministry of Agriculture, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: Hussein_sa@yahoo.com) : Isolation and identification of cellulase producing bacteria isolated from the rumen fluid of Iraqi camels. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1695-9.

Lingo-cellulolytic bacterial strains have been isolated from rumen fluid of Iraqi Camels and inoculated into BB medium, clear colonies were transferred to Nutrient agar. Biochemical test was conducted for all isolated bacterial such as catalase, oxidase, motility, starch hydrolysis, and sugar fermentation were adopt in this study. Isolated bacteria were inoculated in an enriched media containing MRS agar and Carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC). The result revealed the colonial characterization such as shape, color, size, elevation margin, and gram reaction was determined for each of the isolates. A total of six isolates were identified, five were identified as gram negative while one as gram positive. All isolated bacteria 47B, 26HS, 33b, 35AB, 31A and 2MRS produce cellulase after CM Case activity and isolated bacteria 26HS was showed highest ability to produce cellulase enzyme . Seven different strains isolated on MRS agar identified as lactobacillus strains and were characterized morphology and biochemical characteristics. It has concluded that rumen content of camel considered as a good source of wild strain bacteria capable to produce Cellulase.

1 illus, 4 tables, 26 ref

029847   SAPKAL V, PATIL S, SAPKAL D, YADAV R, RAMAWAT N (Agriculture Coll, Nagpur, Maharashtra, Email: vaishalisapkal15@gmail.com) : Assessment of genetic variation and parameters among advanced biparental progeny lines (BIP F₃) Brassica juncea. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1689-94.

Forty advanced biparental progeny lines in BIP F₃ generation along with six checks (RH-819, Geeta, Pusa bold, Varuna, Ashirwad, ACN-9) were evaluated in three replications with the objectives to estimate between family and within family variances, to estimate genetic parameters and to identify superior progenies at experimental farm of Agricultural Botany section, College of Agriculture, Nagpur during rabi 2014. Observations were recorded on days to first flower, days to maturity, plant height, number of branches plant^-1, number of siliqua plant^-1, 1000 seed weight and seed yield plant^-1, chlorophyll content index and leaf relative water content. Analysis of variance indicated that the mean squares due to between families were highly significant for all traits, which revealed the presence of significant genetic variability between the families. Inter class correlation (t) lead to the conclusion that differences between individuals within family is large and each family differentiated distinctly from the other one at lower level in both the generations and hence, equal weightage to σ² f and σ²w were suggested to be considered for selection in BIP F₃ generation. Genetic parameters estimated revealed that number of siliqua plant^-1 and seed yield plant^-1 were the only two characters in BIP F₃ generations to be influenced by additive gene action and selection would be effective in improving these traits. Hence, considering these two characters for selection, 51 individual plants from 31 progenies out 40 studied which recorded significant superiority were identified for evaluating them in progeny rows for one more generation before forwarding to yield trails.

3 tables, 17 ref

029761   KADHIM S M (Animal Production Dep, AL-Qasim Green Univ, Iraq) : Effect of adding different levels of rosemary leaves powder (Rosemarinus offcinalis) to the ration on production traits of broiler chicks (Ross 308). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1684-8.

This experiment was conducted in the poultry farm of Animal Production Department, College of Agriculture, University of AL-Qasim Green to study the effect of adding different levels of Rosemary leaves powder (Rosemarinus offcinalis) to the ration on production traits of broiler chicks (Ross 308) using 180 broiler chicks with one day years old (unknown Gender), from Ross strain. It was randomly divided into four treatments with 45 birds per treatment, each treatment consisted of three replicates (15 birds per replicate). The treatments of the experiment were as follows: First treatment (control) without adding the leaves of the rosemary leaves to the ration, the second treatment: Add the rosemary leaves by 1 g/kg feed, the third treatment: add the rosemary leaves by 2 g/kg feed and the fourth treatment : Add the rosemary leaves by 3 g/kg feed. The study included the following traits: The average of live body weight, weight gain, feed consumption, feed conversion efficiency and mortality. The results indicated that the addition of rosemary leaves with levels (1, 2, 3 g / kg feed) resulted in a significant improvement in the average of live body weight for chicks with 6 weeks age, the average of total weight gain and a significant improvement in total feed conversion efficiency compared to the control treatment (first treatment). It is concluded from the present experiment that adding rosemary leaves in the ration can improve some of the productive traits of the broiler chicks.

5 tables, 13 ref

029695   AFRAYEEN S M, CHAURSIA A K, PANDEY A K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, S.H.U.A.T.S., Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh, Email: syedafrayeem@gmail.com) : Influence of priming treatments on seed germination and seed vigour in black gram (Vigna mungo L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1652-4.

The experiment was conducted in laboratory of Seed Science and Technology, SHUATS, Allahabad during 2013, in order standardize the best method of priming specific to Black gram. Seed priming using various method like that viz., hydropriming, helopriming and osmoprimong were evaluated by screening a range of duration and concentration viz., hydropriming- T₀ Unprimed Control, T₁ - Distilled water , helopriming- T₂ - NaCl (5 %), T₃ -CaCl₂ (1 %), T₄ - KCl (5 %) and osmopriming- T₅ - PEG (25 %) for 14 hours. It was found that all the priming method showed signification difference with the control and the highest germination %, seedling length, weight and germination index were observed for PEG priming for 14 hours. Seed priming, its simplicity and no requirement for expensive equipment and chemical could be used as a simple method for overcoming related to a poor germination and seedling establishment and helps in sustaining agriculture.

1 table, 8 ref

029873   SRAVANI M, MADKEMOHEKAR A H, RAJANEESH K, SWETHA M, KAMBOJ A D, THAKUR G, KUMAR B, NILESH T (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara- 144 411, Email: anant.madke@gmail.com) : Evaluation of barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) genotypes for yield and yield contributing traits in normal sown condition. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1638-42.

An experiment was conducted to get information on genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for twenty five genotypes of barley by using randomized block design in rabi during 2017-18 at the Agricultural Research Farm, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University. Quantitative analysis were carried out for all the characters which are directly or indirectly associated with the yield and there yield related characters. ANOVA showed were significant variability for all the studied traits. Moderate heritability was showed for grain yield per plant followed by harvest index, 1000 grain weight and grains per spike. Highest value of genotypic coefficient of variation and Phenotypic coefficient of variation was showed the grain yield per plant (14.06 and 21.97). Were observed high genetic variation between the all characters were moderately (30 to 60 %) or low (<20) heritability which indicates that the environmental influence is high on characters. Moderate heritability associated with low GA (genetic advance) showed for these traits i.e. effective tillers per plant, plant height, biological yield, spike length, days to maturity, awn length, days to 50 % flowering, biological yield, and awn length, which indicates were traits showed were highly environmental effects and genetic improvement through selected characters would be ineffective under study.

4 tables, 25 ref

029768   KAUR M, SINGH S, DISHRI M, SINGH G, SINGH S K (Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar–144 411, Email: sanjaydbtster@gmail.com) : Foliar application of zinc and manganese and their effect on yield and quality characters of potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cv. Kufri Pukhraj. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1628-30.

A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of foliar fertilization of zinc and manganese on growth and yield potential of potato at the experimental farm, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara during winter season of 2017- 18. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. There were ten treatments used in which one control and remaining treatment consists combination of zinc and manganese. Growth parameters were recorded at two different intervals viz.: 45 and 60 days after planting and yield parameters were recorded at the time of harvest. Growth parameter were plant height, leaf number while yield parameters were tuber weight, number of tuber, size of tubers per plot and yield were recorded. Quality parameters were protein; protien and TSS were recorded after harvesting. The results showed that the application of (Zinc 10.00 ppm and Manganese 10.00 ppm) showed significant positive impact on plant height, number of tuber, tuber weight and yield of potato. The application of Zinc (10.00 ppm) and Manganese (10.00 ppm) also shows significant impact on quality parameter viz.. protein and TSS.

1 table, 12 ref

029832   RAJAN R E B, JOSHI J L, KUMAR C P S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar- 608 002) : Estimation of general and specific combining ability for certain quality traits in tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1659-62.

Nine parental lines were crossed in line x tester fashion comprising 6 lines and 3 testers at research form, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, to estimate combining ability in tomato for certain quality traits. Combining ability analysis revealed that both additive and non additive gene actions were important for all the quality traits studied. Among the parents EC 461070, EC 461035 and MTM local were found to be good general combiner and posses additive genes for most of the quality characters studied.

3 tables, 9 ref

029754   HUSAIN S, NAG K, JAGRE A (Agriculture Science Dep, AKS Univ, Satna, Email: Akhileshjagre123@gmail.com) : To work out the interactive use of nitrogen level and tuber size on growth and yield of potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1617-22.

A field experiment was carried out during winter (Rabi) season of 2016-17, at the instructional farm, AKS University, Satna, Sherganj, Madhya Pradesh. An experiment entitled “To work out the interactive use of nitrogen level and tuber size on growth and yield of potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivar Kufri Badshah” . The experiment considered of twelve treatment combinations comprising four levels of nitrogen i.e. 0 kg, 80 kg, 100 kg & 120 kg nitrogen/hectare and three tuber sizes of potato viz., (25 g, 35 g and 45 g). The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with factorial concept with three replications. Growth parameters like plant height, number of leaves/plant, number of branches, number of tuber plant, fresh weight of tuber, stem diameter, dry weight of tuber and number of tuber/hectare. The highest tuber yield (29.54 t/ ha) of potato have been obtained from tuber size viz., 45 g. The different nitrogen levels caused significant variations in tuber yield of crop.

9 tables, 11 ref

029810   MUDHALVAN S, SENTHILKUMAR N (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar - 608 002, Email: nsenthilsukant1975@gmail.com) : Studies on genetic divergence for fruit yield and its component traits in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench.] genotypes under coastal eco-system. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1598-602.

An investigation entitled “Studies on genetic divergence for fruit yield and its component traits in okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench] genotypes under costal ecosystem” was carried out in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University during 2016 – 2017. Fifteen genotypes were evaluated with the objective of selecting superior genotypes namely, Arka Anamika, Varsha Upahar, Thunder, Dhanya, Pusa-7, Basanthi, S-51, Thanvi-66, CO-2, Akshaya, N-U-Lakshmi, Namadhri, PHS, Villupuram Local, and Karur Local for fruit yield traits. The degree of divergence among 15 genotypes was computed using Mahalanobis’ D² analysis to assess the genetic diversity. For this programme, morphological characters viz., days to first flowering, plant height, inter node distance, days to fruit maturity, number of immature seeds per fruit, fruit length, fruit girth, number of branches per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit weight, and fruit yield per plant were studied. Analysis of variance for 15 genotypes of bhendi revealed that all the genotypes were significantly differed among themselves for all the eleven traits studied. The results revealed that the mean performance for fruit yield per plant was maximum in the genotype namely Basanthi (465 g), followed by Dhanya (438 g) and S-51 (433 g). The genotypes which recorded high mean performance for fruit yield per plant also exhibited significant per se performance for the traits namely inter node distance, number of fruits per plant and average fruit weight. Fifteen diverse genotypes were grouped into five clusters with the highest of five genotypes in the cluster I and II each and two genotype in the cluster III and IV each and only one genotype in the cluster V. Intra and inter cluster D² values ranged from 15.65 to 16.97 and 21.41 to 80.58, respectively. It showed that inter-cluster distance was higher than the intra-cluster distance indicating wide genetic diversity among the genotypes studied of different groups. The relative contribution of studied characters to the genetic diversity indicated that fruit yield per plant (19.05), followed by number of immature seeds per fruit (20.95), average fruit weight (11.43), fruit length (11.43) and plant height (12.38) contributed highest towards the genetic divergence. Genotypes, which performed high mean having these characters in different cluster could be used in breeding programme to develop high yielding cultivars in okra.

6 tables, 19 ref

029853   SHADAP A, PARIARI A, LYNGDOH Y A (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: arwan_s@rediffmail.com) : Influence of organic manures, bio-fertilizers and graded dose of inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1593-7.

A field experiment was conducted to assess the performance of ginger treated with different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrition. A significant difference in the vegetative growth and rhizome yield was noticed when different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrition were tried. Among different combinations tried, maximum plant height (52.48 cm), number of leaves per tiller (17.57), pseudostem girth (1.27 cm) and number of tillers per clump (16.06) were observed in plants raised with Vermicompost + NPK75 % + Azospirillum + VAM + PSB (T5). Whereas, higher leaf length (20.27 cm), leaf breadth (2.16 cm) and leaf area (29.14cm²) were observed in the plants raised with Compost + NPK 100 % + Azospirillum + VAM + PSB (T1). Considering the projected yield per hectare, the highest yield (19.37 t) was produced from the plants raised with Vermicompost + NPK75 % + Azospirillum + VAM + PSB (T5). From Benefit : cost ratio point of view, the best treatment was observed in T5 - Vermicompost + NPK75 % + Azospirillum + VAM + PSB (4.09) followed by T4 - Vermicompost + NPK75 % + Azospirillum + VAM+PSB (3.83), clearly indicating the chance of saving 25 per cent inorganic fertilizers.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

029715   ALKASSAR A M A, ALKASSAR S A (Veterinary Medicine Coll, Kufa Univ, Kufa, Iraq) : Effect of enzyme addition to wheat, barley based diets on physiological and production performance of broiler. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1587-92.

This experiment was conducted in the poultry farm of veterinary medicine college, University of Kufa. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Rovabio multienzyme. With five levels (0.125, 0.250, 0.375, 0.500 %) on the productivity and physiological characteristics of the 300 bird (Ross-308). With 40 ± 2 g initial body weight at day one. A completely randomized design with 5 treatments and 3 replications were fed experimental diets included, (1) basal diet no enzymes (control), (2) basal diet + 1.25 kg/ton enzymes, (3). Basal diet +2.5 kg/ton enzyme, (4) basal diet + 3.75 kg/ton enzyme, (T5) basal diet + 5 kg/ton enzyme. The diets of all groups were formulated in an isonitrogeous and isoenergetic diet based on wheat/barley. Data on feed consumption, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, were collected for 3 periods starter (1-21 d), finisher (22-42 d), and total (1-42 d). Carcass characters. Biochemical & hematocrit parameters were collected for end total period (42d). Results showed significant differences (P0.05) between groups. Adding enzyme increased the concentration of blood HDL and decreased triglyceride, cholesterol and VLDL at 42 d of age. Results from this experiment suggest that multi enzyme supplementation can improve broiler performance.

6 tables, 21 ref

029896   YADAV S P, SINGH S C, YADAV S, TIWARI A K, YADAV S K, SHARMA B L (U.P. Council of Sugarcane Research Institute, Shahjahanpur–242 001, Email: drshriprakashyadav@gmail.com) : Efficacy of various priming techniques of cane node for accelerating germination and production potential of sugarcane (Saccharum sp. hybrid). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1584-6.

Field experiments were carried out during spring season for three consecutive years (2012-15) at the experimental farm of Sugarcane Research Institute, Shahjahanpur (U.P.) with an objective to assess the effect of priming techniques on cane code for accelerating germination. The experimental soil was sandy loam in texture, low in organic carbon (0.37 %), low in available phosphorus (11.45 kg/ha) and medium in potassium (124 kg/ha) with 7.6 PH value. Experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with six treatments and four replications employing variety CoSe 01434 (mid late maturing). The three years individual data recorded and pooled for outcome of the study. Significantly higher germination (40.16 %) and cane yield (96.60 t/ha) were recorded with the treatment priming cane node with cattle dung, cattle urine and water in the ratio of 1:2:5 than that of unprimed cane node treatment which resulted 32.52 % germination and 80.25 t/ha cane yield. CCS percent in cane was not affected significantly due to various priming cane node techniques.

1 table, 17 ref

029696   AL-ABBOODI A A M, JAWAD H S A (Animal Production Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: dr.hassan198366@yahoo.com) : Effect of supplementing different levels of Jerusalem artichoke (Helianthus tuberosus L.) on broiler production performance. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1570-4.

A study was undertaken to examine the broiler growth performance effectiveness by daily supplementing Jerusalem artichoke (JA) from 1 to 6 week of age. A total of 390 one-day-old broiler chicks were allocated to 5 treatments, with 3 replicate per treatment and 26 birds per replicate. Experimental treatments including 0 % (T1), 0.5 % (T2), 1 % (T3), 1.5 % (T4) and 2 % (T5) JA powder were used. Body weight, weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio were recorded weekly. Furthermore, production index (PI), growth rate (GR) and European production efficiency factor (EPEF) were also calculated at the marketing age. The results shows that supplementing 2, 0.5 and 1.5 % JA in T5, T2 and T4, respectively, had dependent nonsignificant (P>0.05) in all the production parameters. The improvement percentage for these treatments was about (2.5-4.2 %) in final body weight, (5.1-18.5 %) in PI, (0.1-0.2 %) in GR and (4.7-8.9 %) in EPEF. It can be conclude the using 2 % of JA caused higher improvement percentage in all the production parameters of broiler chicken.

3 tables, 29 ref

029845   SANDHU A S, SINGH L, DARVHANKAR M S (School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar-144 411, Email: mayur.21878@lpu.co.in) : Evaluation of genetic diversity and relationships among coriander genotypes by using correlation and path analysis. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1557-62.

The present investigation was undertaken to study the relationship between seed yield and its contributing characters by using 30 diverse genotypes of coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm, Lovely Professional University, Jalandhar during Rabi 2017-2018. Observations of twelve different characters were recorded on five randomly selected plants from each replication and mean were used for statistical analysis. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences among the genotypes for all the characters. The presence of highly significant differences established the existence of large variability among genotypes. High GCV observed for harvest index, seed yield per plant, 100- seed weight and days to 50 % flowering. PCV values were higher for 100- seed weight, harvest index and seed yield per plant. Both GCV and PCV were low for days to maturity. Broad-sense heritability was high for seed yield per plant and harvest index. A high estimate of genetic gain was noted for number of basal leaves, longest basal leaf length, number of fruit bearing branches, seeds per umbel, seed yield per plant, 100-seed weight and harvest index. Phenotypic and genotypic correlation studies revealed that the seed yield per plant was positively and significantly correlated with harvest index, 100- seed weight, number of fruit bearing branches and umbellets per plant. Path analysis revealed that the maximum direct and positive effect was due to harvest index followed by seeds per umbel, 100-seed weight, umbellets per plant.

4 tables, 17 ref

029732   CHAUDHARI D J, SINGH N, THUMAR V M (Agricultural Economics Dep, Navsari Agricultural Univ, Navsari, Gujarat, Email: djecon16@gmail.com) : Trends and variability in area, production and productivity of vegetables in Gujarat, India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1552-6.

During the few decades the horticultural production increased in India. In diverse agro climatic condition of Gujarat different horticultural crops are cultivated in which vegetables are major source of income and employment. The demand for vegetables is increasing in the state. The present investigation focus on trends and variability in area, production and productivity of vegetables in Gujarat. The secondary data pertain to area, production and productivity of total vegetable crops grown in Gujarat state was collected from the report of Directorate of Horticulture, Government of Gujarat for the period from 1996-97 to 2015-16 and divided into Period I, Period II and Overall period and analysed with simple statistical tools like mean and percentage. To study growth trend linear and exponential trend equations fitted and LGR and CAGR were worked out, whereas coefficient of variation was worked out to study variability. The results of present study showed that during Period I except productivity and during Period II and overall period the area, production and productivity increased significantly. The productivity of vegetables in Gujarat recorded less growth which was below 3 per cent per annum during overall and II period. The values of coefficient of variation showed that there was variability in area and production, whereas lower variability recorded in productivity over the period of time.

2 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

029816   NEETU, SAAJAN S, DARVHANKAR M, WALIA I, JEENA A S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: neetuthap1602@gmail.com) : Estimation of variability parameters for yield and its contributing characters among early generation clones of sugarcane (Saccharum species complex). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1541-4.

In the current set of an experiment thirty-three early generation clones (C2 ) of sugarcane along with three checks (CoPant 97222, CoS 8436, CoJ 64) were planted in randomized block design with three replications. at Sugarcane Breeding Block, NEB Crop Research Centre, G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Udham Singh Nagar. Variability parameters were estimated for these clones based on ten morphological and juice quality trairs viz., Number of Millable Cane (NMC), cane height (m), cane diameter (cm), single cane weight (Kg), juice brix percent, juice sucrose percent, juice purity percent, Commercial cane sugar percent (CCS %), cane yield (t/ha), CCS yield (t/ha). Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among clones for all the traits under study. Highest GCV were found for single cane weight followed by cane yield and NMC. Single cane weight exhibited highest GCV followed by CCS yield, Cane yield and NMC. The lowest GCV was observed for juice purity %. PCV was recorded highest for Single cane weight (Kg) followed by NMC, CCS yield (t/ha), Cane yield (t/ha), Cane height (m) and Cane thickness (Kg). The lowest phenotypic coefficient of variation was observed for juice purity percent. The range for environmental coefficient of variation (ECV) was observed low for juice purity percent to highest for single cane weight. High estimates of heritability was observed in the present study for cane yield followed by cane quality characters like CCS yield, CCS % and Juice sucrose % while moderate heritability was observed for juice purity, cane height and cane thickness. High estimate of genetic advance was observed for cane yield and NMC while low genetic advance was observed for cane height, cane thickness, single cane weight and NMC. It is evident from the present finding that substantial genetic variability was envisaged for yield and its component traits among the clones under study. Therefore, these traits should be taken into account while selecting superior and desirable plants for further improvement of yield parameters in evolving high yielding genotype in cane.

2 tables, 17 ref

029712   AL-ZUBAIDI A H A (Al-Mussaib Technical Coll, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical Univ, Iraq, Email: alihussan75@yahoo.com) : Effect of humic acids on growth, yield and quality of three potato varieties. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1533-40.

An experiment was conducted at AL-Musaib Technical College-Babylon, during winter 2017 - 2018 to investigate the “Humic acids affect the production of three potato varieties. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replications. Humic levels (0, 1.5, 2 and 2.5 m/L¹), all treatment applied two times separately at the first spray after 30 days of planting, the second spray after 35 days from first spry of potato (Rivera, Rudolph and Elmundo) varieties . The growth and yield parameters to varieties were significantly influenced by various levels of Humic, as variety Elmundo presented additional height number of nodes 46.17, number of leafs 43.73, fresh and dry 71.79 and 8.88, respectively. The proposed work based on that in interaction of Elmundo variety × 2 m/L¹ concentration of Humic acid the and the second of spray, showed best performance for most of the growth and yield parameters may hold a hope for achieving maximum economic efficiency for growing plants of potato.

1 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

029888   VEKIMENKO A V, KAPUSTINA N A (Far Eastern State Agrarian Univ, Russia, Email: andreiyakimenko322@gmail.com) : The production of biologically active feed additives based on grain-coniferous mixtures. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1515-20.

The article in hand describes the process of producing pelleted biologically active supplements based on grain-coniferous mixtures. It also describes the design of a pelleting press and lists the results of the testing. The implementation of the proposed pelleting machine will allow solving the main problem of compacting such mixtures. It gives the opportunity to produce pellets without active drying of the raw material. The grinding of the grain-coniferous mixture takes place in the working zone of the screw conveyor of the press. In the Amur Region, despite the sufficient logging of coniferous trees, the bulk of resulting needles and twigs is not used for further processing. The fir needles and pine needles contain an ample quantity of vitamins and minerals. They are also available during the winter period, characterized by lack of other green fodder. Consequently, the coniferous needles and branches can serve as an excellent means of replenishing deficiencies in rations with biologically active substances. It is quite difficult to produce pellets with high coniferous content using matrix molding presses without grinding these materials and adding binding agents. Therefore, the main task of the conducted studies is to determine the possibility of obtaining pelleted biologically active supplements based on grain-coniferous mixtures. It has been experimentally established that the application of the pelleting press of the proposed design enables the production of such pellets according to with the set zootechnical requirements.

8 illus, 29 ref

029880   TANUJA R, RANA D K (Horticulture Dep, H.N.B. Garhwal Univ, Garhwal- 246 174, Email: dimritanuja.18@ gmail.com) : Effect of different concentration of IBA on shooting and rooting of stem cutting of Karonda (Carisa carandas L.) cv. Pant Manohar under mist condition. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1512-4.

The present investigation entitled “Effect of Different Concentration of IBA on Shooting and Rooting of Stem Cutting of Karonda (Carisa carandas L.) Cv. Pant Manohar Under Mist Condition” was carried out at the Horticultural Research Centre, Department of Horticulture, Chauras Campus, H.N.B. Garhwal University, Srinagar (Garhwal), Uttarakhand, India during the month from March 2016 to June 2016. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with ten treatments and three replications. For uniform planting of cutting in each treatment, 10 cuttings were planted in each replication with accommodating 30 cuttings of a single treatment. Thus, there were 900 cuttings in the experimental field. The stem cuttings of Karonda (Carisa carandas L.) Cv. Pant Manohar were treated with IBA solution of different concentration i.e., 4000 ppm, 5000 ppm, 6000 ppm, 7000 ppm, 8000 ppm, 9000 ppm, 10000 ppm, 11000 ppm, 12000 ppm and control by quick dip method. Among all the treatments, maximum percentage of sprouted cuttings (4.67 %), minimum percentage of unsprouted cuttings (5.33 %), maximum length of sprout per cutting (8.67 cm), maximum average diameter of sprouts per cutting (3.0 cm), maximum average number of sprout (2.33), maximum average number of leaves (9.33), maximum percentage of rooted cutting (40.67), average number of primary roots (11.67), average number of secondary roots (33.33), average length of root per cutting (8.97 cm), diameter of root per cutting (2.33cm), fresh weight of roots per cutting (1.13 g), dry weight of roots (0.71 g) was noticed in 8000 ppm concentration IBA.

2 tables, 9 ref

029723   AZIZ I A, AL-LATIF S A A (Horticulture and Landscape Gardening Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq, Email: istabrkabd@gmail.com) : Studying the efficiency of Canna generalis after being inoculated with mycorrhiza fungus (Glomus mossea) in plant treatments contaminated with lead and cadmium. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1489-98.

The experiment was conducted in greenhouse of Department of Horticulture and Landscaper Gardening, College of Agriculture, University of Baghdad in Al-Jadiriyah for the spring season 2016-2017. The soil was contaminated with concentrations of lead element (0, 75, 150 mg.kg^-1) and concentrations of Cadmium (0, 10, 20 mg.kg^-1). The results showed that the contamination of the soil with lead and cadmium resulted in a decrease in the nutrient elements (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium), while the nutrient elements were increased when plant root was inoculated with Mycorrhiza fungi. The results showed that the accumulation of heavy metals was increased by increasing the added concentrations. It was noticed that the highest accumulation of lead and cadmium in root group was (74 mg.kg^-1) at the concentration of (150 mg.kg^-1, the 03.11 mg.kg^-1) lead element at a concentration of (20 mg.kg^-1) cadmium. In addition, lead and cadmium in the soil increased after the end of the experiment by increasing the added concentrations.

4 tables, 29 ref

029851   SENTHILKUMAR N (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar - 608 002, Email: nsenthilsukant1975@gmail.com) : Studies on genetic diversity for fruit yield and component traits in Bhendi [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1483-8.

An investigation entitled “Studies on genetic diversity of fruit yield and its component traits in Bhendi [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]” was carried out in the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University during 2013 – 2015. Thirty five genotypes were evaluated with the objective of selecting superior genotypes for fruit yield traits. The degree of divergence among 35 genotypes was computed using Mahalanobis D² analysis. These genotypes were used to assess the variability, heritability, genetic advance, and genetic diversity. For this programme, morphological characters viz., days to first flowering, number of nodes per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit weight, plant height, and fruit yield were studied. Analysis of variance for 35 genotypes of bhendi revealed that all the genotypes were significantly differed among themselves for all the ten traits studied. The mean fruit yield per plant was the highest (more than 300 g per plant) with the genotypes viz., G12 (Pusa A₄ ), G20 (Parbhani Kranti), G31 (Punjab Padmini), G9 (Varsha Uphar), G11 (PB 7), G33 (Harbhajan), G26 (PB 266) and G8 (Hissar Unnat). These genotypes also recorded the maximum (more than 20 fruits per plant) number of fruits per plant. High PCV and GCV were observed for the traits fruit yield per plant, plant height and number of fruits per plant. The traits viz., fruit weight, fruit length and girth showed the moderate PCV and GCV. Heritability was high for most of the traits except number of nodes to first fruit and number of branches per plant. Genetic advance as per cent of mean was also high for most of the traits except number of branches per plant. Thirty five genotypes were grouped into ten clusters. Clusters I, III, IV, VI, VII and IX had two genotypes each. The clusters II, V and VIII comprised 12, six and four genotypes, respectively. The cluster X had only one genotype. The intra-cluster distance varied from 0.00 to 29.26. Intra-cluster distance was the minimum between cluster IV and IX and the maximum between cluster VII and X. The traits namely, fruit yield per plant, plant height and fruit length contributed maximum to the genetic diversity and were the major forces of discrimination among the genotypes tested.

6 tables, 13 ref

029747   GINOYA A V, PATEL J B, DELVADIYA I R, JETHVA A S (Junagdh Agricultural Univ, Junagadh – 362 001) : Effect of bulb size and plant spacing on seed yield and economics of onion (Allium cepa L.) seed production. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1479-82.

The present investigation was conducted at the Sagdividi Farm, Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Agriculture, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh during rabi 2016-17 with an aim to study the effect of bulb size [B1 (25 ± 5 g, small size), B2 (50 ± 5 g, medium size) and B3 (75 ± 5 g, large size)] and plant spacing [S1 (30 cm × 30 cm), S2 (30 cm × 40 cm), S3 (45 cm × 30 cm), S4 (45 cm × 40 cm), S5 (60 cm × 30 cm) and S6 (60 cm × 40 cm)] on seed yield and economics of onion seed production cv. Gujarat Junagadh White Onion 3 (GJWO 3). Significantly the highest seed yield per plant of 8.05 g and 7.55 g was obtained in the plants raised from the largest bulb size 75 ± 5 g (B3 ) and at the spacing of 60 cm × 40 cm (S6), respectively. Seed yield per hectare recorded significantly high in largest bulb size (288.78 kg/ha) and in medium spacing of 45 cm × 30 cm (S3) (435.09 kg/ha). The treatment combination B3 × S3 (bulb size 75 ± 5 g planted at the spacing of 45 cm × 30 cm) produced the maximum seed yield per hectare (526.71 kg/ha). The highest gross return (421368 /ha) was obtained from the seed harvested from bulb size (75 ± 5 g) planted at a spacing of 45 cm ± 30 cm (B3 × S3) and it was followed by B3 × S1 treatment combination (bulb size 75 ± 5 g and spacing 30 cm × 30 cm) with gross return 418496 /ha. The highest net return (288922 /ha) was obtained from the seed harvested from bulb size (75 ± 5 g) planted at a spacing of 45 cm × 40 cm (B3 × S4 ) and it was followed by B3 × S3 treatment combination (bulb size 75 ± 5 g and spacing 45 cm × 30 cm) with net return 285245 / ha. The highest benefit cost ratio (3.39) was obtained from the seed harvested from bulb size (75 ± 5 g) planted at a spacing of 45 cm × 40 cm (B3 × S4 ) and it was followed by B3 × S6 treatment combination (bulb size 75 ± 5 g and spacing 60 cm × 40 cm) with benefit cost ratio of 3.26.

2 tables, 20 ref

029878   TAMATAM D, DUBEY N, AVINASHE H A, NAGDA R (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 411, Email: havinashe@gmail.com) : Character association and path analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1466-70.

The genetic variability studies carried out on 10 rice genotypes indicated that the estimate of phenotypic coefficient of variation were greater than those of the genotypic coefficient of variation for all the traits studied. The close proximity between PCV & GCV values for most of the characters indicated less influence of environment on the expression of the characters under study. Considering heritability, most of the characters showed moderate values. High heritability coupled with moderate genetic advance as per cent of mean was recorded 1000 grain weight indicating the scope of improvement through direct selection. Correlation analysis revealed that panicle weight, number of effective tillers per plant, harvest index, number of tillers per plant, number of filled grains per plant and panicle length were positively and significantly associated with grain yield per plant. Path analysis revealed that panicle weight had the highest positive direct effect followed by number of grains per panicle, 1000 grain weight and plant height on the dependent character i.e., grain yield per plant. Hence, these characters could be considered as criteria for selection for higher yield as these were mutually and directly associated with grain yield.

4 tables, 12 ref

029791   LAKRA N, GAURAHA A K, CHANDRAKAR M R, BANAFAR K N S (Agricultural Economics Dep, IGKV, Raipur-492 001, Email: neha.lakra207@gmail.com) : An economics of production of sweet potato in Bastar plateau of Chhattisgarh. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1463-5.

The study aims to examine the economics of Sweet potato production at different size of farms in Bastar and Kanker district of Bastar Plateau of Chhattisgarh state. The survey for this purpose was conducted in three blocks of each Bastar and Kanker district of Chhattisgarh. Primary data were collected from 300 farmers, five villages from each block was selected through personal interview method with the help of pre-structured schedule for the year 2016-17. Study revealed that the average cost of cultivation of Sweet potato was estimated to be Rs. 52709.49 per hectare. The average yield was observed to be 88.83 quintals per hectare. Highest yield was found at large farms i.e. 92.47 quintals per hectare across the different farms. The gross return from Sweet potato was observed as Rs. 139433.79 per hectare. The average cost of production was calculated as Rs. 593.37 per quintal. The average net income per hectare was observed to be Rs. 86724.30. Highest net income was observed at large farms i.e. Rs. 94068.27 per hectare. The input- output ratio was observed 1: 2.64.

3 tables, 5 ref

029820   OLUWASEUN A C, PHAZANG P, SARIN N B (Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi - 110 067, Email: adetunjicharles@gmail.com) : Production of ecofriendly biofertilizers produced from crude and immobilized enzymes from Bacillus subtilis Ch008 and their effect on the growth of Solanum lycopersicum. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1455-62.

This work was performed in order to determine the effect of crude keratinase enzyme and the immobilized keratinase enzyme on the biodegradation of chicken feather wastes and to evaluate their effect on the growth of tomato plant. Moreover, the effect of variably formulated biofertilizer on soil enzymatic activity and soil carbon and soil respiration when compared to chemical fertilizer using different assay techniques. The order of bio-fertility activity is BCKE > BIKE >positive control. Additionally, the biofertilizer produced from the immobilized enzymes showed a significant difference on all the tested growth parameters like shoot length, root length, number of leaves, area of leaves and wet and dry biomass and enhanced the chlorophyll content of Solanum lycopersicum when compared to the control. After the 60th day period of experiment, the biofertilizer formulation from BCKE showed the highest value of 374 mg CO₂ kg^-1 soil hr^-1 followed by BIKE with a value of 298 mg CO₂ kg^-1 soil hr^-1 as against the positive control (NPK fertilizer) that had a value of 84 mg CO₂ kg^-1 soil hr^-1. The level of organic carbon content also showed that the biofertilizer treated soil exhibited increased soil carbon content and improved soil enzymatic activity when compared to the NKP treated soil. Therefore, this work has established that biofertilizer derived from microbial biodegradation of feather wastes could be utilized as a permanent replacement to the high cost and environmental unfriendly fertilizer. This will also go a long way in the total reduction of environmental pollution and a sustainable green technology for solid wastes management.

4 illus, 35 ref

029776   KUMAR N S, MUDHALVAN S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar – 608 002, Email: nsenthilsukant1975@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis in rice (Orzya sativa) for grain yield and its component characters. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1447-50.

The choice of plant breeding methodology for upgrading the yield potential largely depends on the availability of reliable information on the nature and magnitude of gene effects present in the population. The present study was undertaken during 2016-2017 with the objective to study the gene action of grain yield and other important traits in rice using the half diallel technique involving six parents namely ADT 36, ADT 45, BPT5204, ASD 16, ADT 37 and ADT 39. Data from the F₁ generation and parents were analyzed using Hayman (1954) method of diallel analysis. Additional statistics needed for the genetic interpretation indicated that all the traits were controlled by the both additive and non-additive genetic variance. Estimates of genetic component variance due to additive (D) and dominant components (H₁ and H₂) were also significant for all the traits studied. The positive F value and K_D /K_R (>1) indicated the distribution of more dominant alleles for number of productive tillers per plant, plant height, 100 grain weight, number grains per panicle, kernel length, kernel breadth and kernel L/B ratio. The negative value of F and K_D/K_R (<1) indicated the distribution of more recessive alleles for the traits days to 50 per cent flowering, panicle length and grain yield per plant. The potence ratio indicated the presence of over dominance in the inheritance of most of the traits including grain yield per plant except 100 grain weight and kernel breadth. Narrow sense heritability indicated the importance of additive genetic variance in the inheritance of most of traits.

2 tables, 9 ref