029738   DARPAN S, NAG K, JAGRE A (Agriculture Science Dep, AKS Univ, Satna, Email: Akhileshjagre123@gmail.com) : Study the correlation, path coefficient between yield and its attributing characters in Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1411-5.

A field experiment entitled Study the correlation, path coefficient between yield and its attributing characters in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)” was conducted at the experimental farm of Horticulture AKS University, Satna during kharif season 2015-16. Involving fifteen genotypes of brinjal with a view to assess the genetic parameters and degree of mutual association in respect of yield and yield contributing characters viz. plant height (cm), number of primary branches per plant, number of leaves per plant, days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering, days to first fruit set, fruit length (cm), single fruit weight, number of fruits per plant, fruit yield per plot (kg). Significant variations were obtained among the genotypes for all the characters under investigation. The variety Arka Nidhi recorded the maximum plant height (cm) at 90 days after transplanting. Maximum number of primary branches per plant at 90 days after transplanting and days to 50 % flowering were observed in Swarna mani. Maximum single fruit weight were observed in Utkal Tarini. Minimum days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering and days to first fruit set was observed in Kashi Taru. Further it was also noticed that maximum fruit yield per plot was recorded in Punjab barsati. However, lowest yield per plot was recorded in JB-6.The highest PCV and GCV were recorded for fruit yield per plot.

6 ref

029742   DISHRI M, MISHRA H N, SENAPATI N, TALEKAR N S, SAHU G S (Vegetable Science Dep, O.U.A.T, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: dishri.madhu001@gmail.com) : Estimation of heterosis for earliness, yield and its components in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1405-10.

Twenty eight crosses for ten quantitative traits in 8×8 half diallel mating design in brinjal were evaluated in randomized block design with three replications to study heterosis over mid and better parents. Appreciable heterosis was observed over better parent and mid parent for all the characters studied. The lines BBSR 202, BBSR 195-1, BB 26 and BB45C were found superior on the basis of mean performance for earliness and yield related characters. In order of merit, BB 68 × BB 13, BB 13 × BB 44, BB 45C × BB 13, BBSR 202 × BB 13 and BB 26 × BBSR 195-1 showing 69.45 %, 66.38 %, 40.33 %, 35.65 % and 31.52 % respectively were found to be the five best performing crosses with high heterobeltiosis and mean performance for yield per plant. These cross combinations can be advanced for further testing for commercial exploitation of hybrid vigour.

2 tables, 15 ref

029781   KUMAR S M S, BARDHAN G (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002, Email: kumarsureka1974@gmail.com) : Effect of different sources of organic manure granules on the growth of hybrid maize. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1401-4.

The field experiment was conducted to study the effect of inorganic fertilizers and organic granules in growth parameters of hybrid maize at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Annamalai Nagar, during February – May, 2016. The experiments comprised of (T1 ) Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) (250:75:75) NPK kg ha^-1, (T2) 75 % RDF + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha^-1, (T3) 75 % RDF + Seaweed extract granules @ 20 kg ha^-1, (T4) 75 % RDF + Organic manure granules (Pressmud + ash) @ 100 kg ha^-1, (T5) 75 % RDF + Bone meal granules @ 12.5 kg ha^-1, (T6) 50 % RDF + Humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha^-1, (T7) 50 % RDF + Seaweed extract granules @ 20 kg ha^-1, (T8) 50 % RDF + Organic manure granules (pressmud+ash) @ 100 kg ha^-1, (T9) 50 % RDF + Bone meal granules @ 12.5 kg ha^-1.The application of 75 % RDF + humic acid granules @ 12.5 kg ha^-1 (T2) significantly registered highest values. The least values were recorded with 75 % RDF + bone meal granules 12.5 kg ha^-1 (T9 ).

1 table, 9 ref

029703   AL-HASNAWI H A K, KHALEEL T H, HUSSEIN J K (Plant Production Dep, Al-Furat Al-Awsat Technical Univ, Babylon- 51006, Iraq, Email: husseinmaster495@yahoo.com) : Effect of growth regulators and preservative solutions on vase life and water relations for flowers of Ranunculus asiaticus L. after cutting. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1391-400.

This experiment was conducted at the Al–Musaib Technical College in the province of Babylon at the autumn season of (2016-2017). For study the effect of five concentrations of growth regulator of (0, 25 GA3, 50 GA3, 100 Salicylic acid, 150 Salicylic acid) mg/L, and three types of preservative solutions and their effect on the vase life and water relations for flowers of Ranunculus asiaticus L. after Cutting . The results showed that treatment of GA3 (50 mg / L) was significantly excelled by giving them the highest values in the traits of relative fresh weight of 148.78 %, Absorbed water of 41.38 g /flower stem/day, the lost water of 20.07 g /flower stem/day, water balance of 18.31 g /flower stem/day, vase life 15.40 days, dry weight of flowers 10.26 g, and carbohydrate content in petals 16.58 %. As for the anthocyanin pigment in the Ranunculus flower petals, the salicylic acid treatment with concentration of 150 mg/L was significantly excelled than of the other treatments which gave 17.95 mg/100g dry weight. The second solution that consists of (5 % sucrose + 200 mg / L 8. HQS + 200 mg/L citric acid) is significantly excelled in the traits of relative fresh weight of 153.46 %, absorbed water 42.49 g/flower stem/day, the lost water 24.55 g /flower stem/day, water balance 21.03 g /flower stem/day, vase life 15.55 days, Dry weight of flowers 10.52 g, carbohydrate content in petals 17.93 %, Anthocyanin pigment 21.24 mg/100g dry weight. Treatment of interaction between growth regulators and preservative solutions was characterized, The interaction treatment that consists of (50 mg/L + second solution) was significantly excelled on the other interaction treatments in traits of the relative fresh weight 160.69 %, absorbed water 48.73 g/flower stem/day, the lost water 17.49 g/flower stem/day, water balance 31.24 g/flower stem/day, vase life 18.67 days, dry weight of flower 11.82 g, carbohydrate content in petals 20.78 %. As for the anthocyanin pigment in the Ranunculus flower petals, the treatment that consist of (Salicylic acid with concentration of 150 mg/L + second solution) was significantly excelled on the rest of the treatments and gave 26.11 mg/100g dry weight.

5 illus, 2 tables, 30 ref

029770   KOUR S, SAJAAN S, GAIKWAD D S, KUMAR A, NEETU (Agronomy Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: sumeetkour14@gmail.com) : Impact of different sowing methods on growth and yield attributes of direct-seeded rice (Oryza satival.) in alluvial soils of Punjab, India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1385-90.

Rice is a major food crop for the people of the world and especially in Asian countries. It is a staple food for majority of the population residing in Asian continent. Rice is a short-day summer season crop grown under diverse climatic and edaphic conditions. It grows well in humid tropical regions with high temperature and high rainfall. From many years continuous use of rice- wheat cropping system specially in the non-conventional north Indian states especially Punjab and Haryana has led to depleted ground water levels. So, this research was conducted during kharif season of 2016 to find the effect of different methods of sowing on yield and yield attributes in direct seeded rice. Three sowing methods employed were 1. Dry broadcasting 2. Sprouted wet broad casting and 3. Line sowing. The rice varieties used were Pusa1121 and Basmati 1509. The results showed that higher paddy yield was obtained in line sowing method with both varieties as compare to other sowing methods.

42 ref

029735   CHHABRA V, KUMAR R (Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: vandna.21027@lpu.co.in) : Role of zinc application on rice growth and yield. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1382-4.

Zinc is an important nutrient for the healthy growth and development of plants among the micronutrients. Zinc deficiency is common in high pH soils. The widespread deficiency of nitrogen and phosphorus is followed by Zn deficiency. Grain yield may be enhanced by application of zinc in soil; however concentration of zinc can be improved by foliar spray of Zn fertilizer. Based on various studies, soil and foliar applications of zinc enhance the yield of crops. Flood-irrigated rice is highly sensitive to Zn deficiency and zinc availability can be increased by improving organic content and soil pH.

1 illus, 26 ref

029865   SINGH M, KUMAR R, KUMAR A, JASWAL A, SINGH A (Agronomy Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: ms23049@gmail.com) : Effect of combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizer sources on growth and yield of kharif maize in a coarse loamy typic haplustept soil. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1369-72.

A field experiment was conducted to study the Effect of combined use of organic and inorganic fertilizer sources on growth and yield of kharif maize in a coarse loamy Typic Haplustept soil at the Experimental Farm of School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab during kharif season of 2015. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with eight treatments and three replications. The results showed that the highest plant height (193.2 cm), stem girth (7.5 cm) and maximum number of leaves (12.6) was observed in T₄ (75 % RDF + 10t FYM + V.C @ 2t/ha). The highest cob length (21.2 cm), number of grains per cob (480.2), grain yield (4096.0 kg/ha), straw yield (6271.0 kg/ha), harvest index (39.4 %) and 1000- grain weight (364.4 g) was observed in T₆ (50 % RDF + 10 tFYM + V.C @ 2t/ha + azotobacter/ha). The minimum plant height, stem girth, number of leaves per plant, cob length, number of grains per cob, grain yield, straw yield, harvest index and 1000- grain weight was produced by T₁ ( Control) plot. The combination of organic and inorganic fertilizer sources in T₆ - 50 % RDF + 10 t FYM + V.C @ 2t/ha + azotobacter/ha, gave a best result with respect to grain yield, straw yield and harvest index.

2 tables, 14 ref

029800   MEHMOOD S I (Al Mustansiryia Univ, Iraq, Email: sarabiology@uomustansiriya.edu.iq) : Evaluation of Aloe vera extract efficiency to control Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera : Gelechiidae). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1366-8.

In the store there are problems to control of insects, which cause great economic losses and that the use of pesticides affects human health, so the goal of this research to evaluate the effectiveness extract of Aloe vera gel plant As an alternative to pesticides against one example of stores insect: Sitotroga cerealella, with three concentrations (5, 10, 15 %) under laboratory conditions. the research included the following some stages: egg, larva and adults at age 24 it. Results of the study showed the highest percentage mortality rate of eggs 72.8 % at concentration 15 % and gave 68.2 at concentration 10 %. While gave 56.45 % at concentration 5 % which decline to 0 at control treatment. Also, the highest percentage killing of the first larval stage was 65.2 % at concentration 15 % treatment and decline to 59.3 % at concentration 10 % and gave 44.5 % at concentration 5 % while the control treatment did not record any mortality rate. For the treatment of adults reached the highest percentage mortality was 63.3 at concentration 15 % and the lowest percentage mortality was 39.2 at concentration 5 % compared with control treatment that did not record any mortality

3 tables, 20 ref

029881   TIRUPATHAMMA T L, NAIDU L N, RAMANA C V, SASIKALA K (Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural Univ, Guntur- 522 034, Email: cvr.venkat@gmail.com) : Evaluation of paprika (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes for yield and yield attributing traits. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1359-65.

An experiment was conducted during kharif, 2016-17 at Horticultural Research Station, Lam, Guntur,Andhra Pradesh (India) to identify potential genotypes for thirteen quantitative traits among forty four genotypes of paprika (Capsicum annuum L.). The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all the thirteen characters indicating the presence of genetic variability among the genotypes. Among forty four genotypes, the genotype LCA-446 recorded maximum plant height and number of primary branches per plant whereas the genotype LCA-424 recorded the maximum plant spread. The genotype LCA-436 recorded earlier flowering and the genotype LCA-513 the earliest to mature. The genotype LCA-439 recorded maximum fruits per plant, whereas the maximum fruit length was observed for the genotype Byadagi kaddi. The genotype Warangal Chappatta double patti recorded highest fruit diameter, number of seeds per fruit, weight of seeds per fruit and 1000 seed weight, whereasthe genotypes LCA-442 and LCA-453 recorded the maximum fruit pedicel length and the genotype LCA-470 recorded the highest dry fruit yield per plant.

3 tables, 35 ref

029802   MISHRA A, SINGH A K, KUMAR A (Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Faizabad-224 229, Email: abhinavkumar188@gmail.com) : Effect of foliar feeding of zinc and iron on flowering and yield attributes of gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cv. Novalux. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1355-8.

An experiment was carried out to study the effect of foliar feeding of zinc and iron on flowering and yield attributes of Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflorus L.) cv. Novalux in the year 2015-2016. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Block Design with nine treatments viz. FeSO₄ 0.25 %, FeSO₄ 0.5 %, ZnSO₄ 0.25 %, ZnSO₄ 0.5 %, FeSO₄ 0.25 %+ ZnSO₄ 0.25 %, FeSO₄ 0.25 % + ZnSO₄ 0.5 %, FeSO₄ 0.5 %+ ZnSO₄ 0.25 %, FeSO₄ 0.5 %+ ZnSO₄ 0.5 % and a control replicated three times to assess the effect of foliar application iron and zinc on flowering and yield characters of gladiolus. Results reveals that the spraying of FeSO₄ 0.5 %+ ZnSO₄ 0.25 % was proved most effective for early spike initiation (94.5 days), opening of first floret (102 days) and maximum duration of flowering (15.10 days), Length of spike (103.4 cm), Diameter of spike (1.53 cm), Number of florets/ spike (16.46), Number of corm/ plant (2.00), Number of corm/ha. (2.25 lakh) weight of corm/ plant (46.26 g) However, vase life (13.90) was recorded maximum under FeSO₄ 0.25 % + ZnSO4 0.5 %.

1 table, 19 ref

029733   CHAUDHARI J J, PARMAR R G (Plant Pathology Dep, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand - 388 110) : Efficacy of fungicides against sheath rot of rice under field condition. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1352-4.

Sheath rot of rice caused by Sarocladium oryzae (Sawada) is one of the most important fungul disease of rice and is gaining more importance due to its wide spread occurrence all over the world. In this study, the seven fungicides were tested against sheath rot of rice under field conditions. Out of seven fungicides evaluated, two foliar sprays of hexaconazole 5 % + captan 70 % WP followed by hexaconazole 5 % EC, tricyclazole 75 % WP and azoxystrobin 18.2 % SC were found significantly most effective in reducing the sheath rot intensity and increased the grain and straw yield of rice.

1 table, 12 ref

029900   ZAHABY H M E, MASWADA H F, ZIEDAN E S H, ZOEIR E H A E R (Agricultural Botany Dep, Tanta Univ, Tanta, Egypt, Email: ziedanehe@yahoo.com) : Safe integrated control of postharvest rot diseases on banana fruit. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1345-51.

The integrative management of banana postharvest diseases i.e., crown, neck, finger and flower end rots caused by Colletotrichum musae (Berk & M.A.Curtis ) Arx and Fusarium moniliforme J. Sheld was carried out by dipping banana fruits in each suspensions for 10 minutes of clove oil (2.0 %), agar suspension (0.2 %) and their combinations compared with hot water and untreated fruits. Results declared that all dipping treatments significantly reduced the incidence and severity of all postharvest rot diseases in banana fruits compared with untreated fruits. Interestingly, the single application of clove oil (2.0 %) or agar suspension (0.2 %) were the most effective and significants treatments reduced the incidence and severity of postharvest rot diseases. However, no significant effects on fruit firmness loss (%) and soluble solid concentration (SSC) in treated fruits and untreated. Meanwhile, individual application of each clove oil (2.0 %) or agar suspension (0.2 %) greatly decreased fruit weight loss percentage in stored fruits, and thus, had effective role in maintaining fruit quality.

5 tables, 40 ref

029773   KUMAR C P S, PRASAD V, RAJAN R E B, THIRUGNANAKUMAR S (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalainagar-608 002) : A study on genetic diversity among cotton genotypes (Gossypium hirsutum L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1341-4.

Thirty three genotypes of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) representing different geographic regions were evaluated to assess the extent of genetic diversity by employing Mahalanobis’ D² statistic. The genotypes were classified into five discrete clusters and the entire collection was allocated to different clusters. There was no parallelism between genetic and geographic divergence was observed. Substantial variation in cluster means was observed for all the characters studied. Considering extent of diversity among the genotypes and cluster means for various characters, crosses among the genotypes of Clusters viz., III, IV and V may give rise to heterotic hybrids and wide spectrum of variability in subsequent segregating generations. Genotypes CSH 2810 and GJHV 503 were observed to be potential parents for future cotton breeding programme.

5 tables, 7 ref

029706   AL-KHATIB B G M, NOORI A A, SHIHAB I M (Animal Production Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq) : Using of smashed Zingiber officinale as a diet supplementation to increase the immune response against Salmonella typhimurium infection in chicken. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1337-40.

Sixty chickens at age 30 days involved in this study. This chicken divided to three equal groups control, second group give Salmonella typhimurium Antigen orally 2×109 bacteria /ml only, third group give Sal. Antigen and the ginger with the fed concentrate about (95:5) w/w ratio) for six weeks. Each chicken a blood smear was and staid with Wright stain, till differentially read mean H, L and H/L ratio, also study phagocytic activity and delayed hyper sensitivity test. The study revealed that significant reduction (p<0.05) in lymphocytes in group three about (30.13, 35.27) % in the group tow compared with control 58.36 %, whereas heterophils recorded significant increase (p<0.05) (66.57, 59.25) % respectively in compared with control group 37.48 %. H/L ratio revealed significant increase (p<0.05) in group three about 3.5 folds while it was only 2.5 folds in the group tow, phagocytic activity revealed a significant difference (p<0.05). This activity was maintain for 5, 10, 15 min in group three about 3.53, 3.32, 3.21 respectively but in group tow the activity maintain for 5, 10 min. Highest activity in 5 min in group three 3.53. CMI measured as relative increase in wattle thickness was higher in the group three only at 24 hr after inculcation of Antigen of Sal.

3 tables, 21 ref

029863   SINGH H, SINGH S, KUMAR D, SINGH S K (Lovely Professional Univ, Jalandhar–144 411, Email: sanjaydbtster@gmail.com) : Impact of foliar application of zinc on potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cv. Kufri Pukhraj. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1334-6.

In order to study the response of potato cv. Kufri Pukhraj to foliar application of zinc, a field experiment was carried out at Main Experimental Farm of the Lovely Professional University Phagwara, Kapurthala, Punjab (India), during NovemberFebruary cropping season of year 2017-2018. The experiment was conducted with eight different treatments namely; T₁ - control, T₂ – zinc @ 5 ppm, T₃- zinc @ 10 ppm, T₄ - zinc @ 15 ppm, T₅ - zinc @ 20 ppm, T₆ - zinc @ 25 ppm, T₇ - zinc @ 30 ppm and T₈ - zinc @ 35 ppm, following Randomized Block Design with three replications. The observations recorded during the research, showed that foliar application of T₇ - zinc @ 30 ppm had significant effect on growth, yield and quality characters of potato. The range of plant height (22.87 cm and 31.91 cm) and number of leaves (132.45 and 199.03) were recorded maximum in T₇ - zinc @ 30 ppm, at 45 and 75 days after sowing respectively. Tuber yield (18.89 t ha^-1), carbohydrate (19.52 g/100 g) and TSS (7.55 %) were also recoded maximum in T₇ - zinc @ 30 ppm. Based upon the present investigation, it can be concluded that for commercial cultivation of potato cv. Kufri Pukhraj foliar application of Zn @ 30 ppm is very effective for getting the higher tuber yield with best quality tubers.

1 table, 16 ref

029898   YADAV V P, RANWAH B R (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Udaipur, Rajasthan, Email: vp_yadav@yahoo.com) : Use of indirect selection method in breeding for drought tolerance in peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1321-33.

An investigation was carried out in 192 progenies derieved from seven hybrids involving eight parents in Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). The objectives of this investigation were to make the potential use of indirect (Trait based) selection in breeding for drought tolerance conventional breeding programmes by assessment of drought related morpho-physiological traits at one hand viz. water use efficiency (WUE) measured in terms of SPAD reading and harvest index (HI) and quantitative traits on the other. The important outcome of this investigation is that the two selection methods one is indirect (Trait based) selection which was exercised under drought and irrigated conditions and second empirical selection under irrigation condition did not show significant superiority of indirect (Trait based) selection over the empirical for yield under either limited – moisture or normal – moisture condition. However, there was a strong trend for increased kernal yield in trait-based genotypes among the top genotypes, although the yield gains were statistically non - significant when compared with the highest yielding parent ICGS – 76. Even so there were significant yield gains among the top genotypes compared to the other seven parents. Thus the results suggested that the inclusion of some of the constituent traits of the selection index, or their easily measurable surrogate traits would be useful in peanut breeding programs. These data should enable tools to be developed for indirect selection of genotypes suited to drought prone environments. Assessing over all performance of the progenies twenty-two progenies were found to be superior for one trait or the other for resistance/tolerance to drought selection through trait based selection method. However, empirical selection method could not yield a profenly sustaining in drought conditions.

10 tables, 34 ref

029785   KUMAR S, YADAV S P, RAI S N, SINGH S C, BHARTI Y P, SHARMA B L (Genda Singh Sugarcane Breeding and Research Institute, Seorahi, Email: satendrayadav.agro@gmail.com) : Effect of various geometry and nutrients management methods in relation to mechanization on productivity of sugarcane (Saccharum species hybrid). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1317-20.

A field experiment for consecutive two years i.e. 2014-16 and 2015-17 was conducted at research farm of genda singh sugarcane breeding and research institute, Seorahi Kushinagar in autumn season to find out optimum plant geometry and nutrients for efficient use of machinery. The soil of the experimental plot was medium in organic carbon, medium in available phosphorus and low in potash with pH 8.2. The experiment consisting of four plant geometry i.e. S1 - 90 cm row spacing (Conventional method, S2 - Trench planting in paired row at 120 (90:30) cm. S3 - Trench planting in paired row at 150 (120:30) cm. S4 - Trench planting in paired row at 180 (150:30) cm and two nutrient management practices i.e. F1 -100 % recommended dose of fertilizers through inorganics F2 - 100 % recommended dose of fertilizers through inorganics and 25 % N through organic manures along with biofertilizers (Azotobactor + P.S.B. @ 10 kg/ha each) was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. S2 treated plot produced significantly higher shoot population (207.83 and 171.05 thousand/ ha), cane yield (104.22 and 105.21 t/ha) and CCS (13.01 and 13.19 t/ha) over conventional planting method in both the years, respectively. Significantly lower germination (48.39 and 39.15 per cent) and single cane weight (0.671 and 0.667 kg) were noted under conventional planting treated plots during both the years, respectively. Effect of nutrient management on germination, shoot population, single cane weight, cane yield, number of internodes, CCS (t/ha) were observed significantly higher in 100 % recommended dose of fertilizers through inorganics and 25 % N through organic manures along with biofertilizers (Azotobactor + P.S.B. @ 10 kg/ha treated plots (F2) in both the years except germination and shoot population in 2015-17 year. More cane yield in paired row trench planting may be due to border effect, higher light interaction and proper aeration in wide row spacing trenches as compared to convention planting method. CCS per cent was not affected significantly with different treatments in both the years.

2 tables, 9 ref

029714   ALI T J M (Horticulture Dep, Al-Qasim Green Univ, Babylon, Iraq, Email: Tahani.jawad80@gmail.com) : Effect of organic remnants and zinc application on local orange saplings, Citrus sinensis (L.) grafted on sour orange root stock. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1306-12.

This experiment was carried out at Al-Hindia Horticultural Station (Province of Karbala) affiliated by the General company of Horticulture and forestry/ Ministry of agriculture in November 2016 until June 2017, to study the effects of Organic remnant application as well as Zinc foliar application on vegetative parameters for Local orange saplings grafted previously on sour orange root stocks. For this study decomposed animal remnants were used as Organic compost at four levels (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 kg sapling^-1) and Zinc sulfur salts in water form were used as a source of Zinc at three levels (0, 20, 40 mg.L^-1). A factorial experiment using a complete randomized block design was carried out with three replicates. Means were compared using least significant differences and results were as follows: Organic treatment applied at a rate of (1.5 kg/ sapling^-1) to sapling growth media exceeded significantly by increasing sapling vegetative growth parameters which recorded the highest results 103.87 cm for sapling height, 1.33 cm sapling stem diameter, 105.27 leaves for total leaf number, 23.27 dsm² for sapling leaf area, 48.37 chlorophyll leaf content spad, 128.6 g sapling dry weight, 6.13 secondary branch count, 71.9 secondary root count, % 1.88 leaf nitrogen content, % 0.34 phosphor content, % 1.81 potassium content and finally % 10.46 for leaf carbohydrate content. As for Zinc foliar applications applied at a rate of (40 mg.L^-1) significantly succeeded in increasing previous parameter means as follows, 99.45 cm, 1.3 cm, 101.9 leaves, 22.7 dsm², 48.48 spad, 129.3 g, 6.15 branches, 73.28 secondary roots, % 1.87, % 0.32, % 1.69 and % 9.85 respectively. As for the best interaction treatment (1.5 kg.sapling^-1 + 40 mg.L^-1) recorded the highest results for the previously mentioned parameters.

8 tables, 30 ref

029727   BARDHAN G, KUMAR S M S (Agronomy Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Integrated use of organic and graded levels of inorganic fertilizers for hybrid maize production in Cauvery delta zone. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1301-5.

Field investigation was conducted at Annamalai University Experimental Farm, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu to study the effect of integrated nutrient management in maize. The field experiment was carried out during March to June, 2014 and was conducted in randomized block design with three replications. The treatments comprised of 100 percent recommended dose offertilizer (RDF) (T₁), 75 percent RDF (T₂), 100 percent RDF + enriched FYM @ 750 kg ha^-1 (T₃ ), 75 percent RDF + enriched FYM @ 750 kg ha^-1 (T₄), 100 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 (T₅ ), 75 per cent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 (T₆ ), 100 per cent RDF + enriched FYM @ 750 kg ha ^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 (T₇), 75 percent RDF + enriched FYM @ 750 kg ha^-1+ soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 (T₈), 100 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 (T₉), 75 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 (T₁₀). Among the integrated nutrient management practices evaluated, 100 percent RDF + vermicompost @ 5 tonnes ha^-1 + soil application of azospirillum @ 2 kg ha^-1 resulted in the enhanced values of various growth attributes viz., plant height, leaf area index and dry matter production. Application of 75 percent RDF alone resulted in the lowest values of the growth components.

1 table, 20 ref

029799   MATHPAL B, SRIVASTAVA P C, SHANKHDHAR S C (Plant Physiology Dep, G.B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: mathpal.88@gmail.com) : Impact of zinc and iron levels on key enzyme activities and grain protein content of rice. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1291-6.

Although all micronutrients are important but zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) deficiency is a serious concern regarding health of plants and humans both. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to see their effect on key enzyme activities (superoxide dismutase, carbonic anhydrase, catalase and peroxidase) and total protein content in grains of two contrasting rice varieties viz., NDR359 (Zn inefficient) and PD16 (Zn efficient). Various concentrations of Zn (0, 0.25 % and 0.5 % ZnSO₄) and Fe (0, 0.5 % and 1.0 % FeSO₄ ) were foliarly applied on both the varieties at 30, 60 and 90 days after sowing (DAS). Regarding activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), maximum (0.127 units min^-1) was recorded at 0.5 % Zn + 0 % Fe in NDR359 while 0.5 % Zn + 0 % Fe was found most effective (21.76 units mg^-1) in increasing carbonic anhydrase (CA) activity in PD16. With respect to catalase (CAT) activity, maximum was recorded at 0 % Zn + 1.0 % Fe in NDR359 whereas regarding peroxidase (POD) activity, variety PD16 showed maximum at 0.5 % Zn + 0 % Fe. Protein content in grains of both the varieties was found to be increased with increasing levels of both the micronutrients and maximum was recorded in PD16 at 0.5 % Zn + 1.0 % Fe. All these combinations of Zn and Fe can be further tested and recommended for future use.

5 illus, 28 ref

029759   JEBUR H A, HIMOUD M S (Agricultural Machines and Equipment Dep, Baghdad Univ, Baghdad, Iraq) : Evaluating the performance of dual disk ridge. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1285-90.

The present research was carried out to evaluate some operating parameters affecting the performance of dual disk ridge, in a silty clay soil with moisture content of (14 %). The tractor “CASE JX75T” and dual disk ridge were used machinery units. Some parameters of study encompass three levels tractor forward speeds g1, g2 and g3 and two tilt disc angles (300 - 450), by using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with a split plots. A few technical performance indicators for machinery units were studied which include; specific fuel consumption (S.fC), soil disturbed volume (S.v.d), specific resistance, pull force and wheel slip. The experimental results reveal that the forward speeds 2.44 km/h was superior among other tilt disc angles in recording lower rate both of the specific resistance 18.32 kN/m², travel reduction 2.70 % and higher rate of (S.fC) 0.743 l/ kW.h, while the speed 4.33 km/h was recording higher (S.v.d) 449.71 m³/h. The angles of 450 was superior in recording higher rate of the (S.v.d) 395.96 m³/h and (S.fC) 0.798 l/kW.h with lower rate of specific resistance 20.66 kN/m². The angle of 300 was superior in recording lower rate of the travel reduction value 3.39 % and pull force 4.79 kN. As the interaction between tilt disc angle and forward speed, it was significant for all parameters whereas the third forward speed of 4.33 km/h with the tilt disc angle (450 ) was superior in recording higher rate of the (S.v.d) 514.67 m³/h, (S.fC) 0.798 l/kW.h and lower rate of specific resistance 26.35 kN/m².

7 illus, 3 tables, 16 ref

029692   ABDULATEEF S M, ALDHANKI Z T M, RASHID S A (Animal Production Dep, Al-Anbar Univ, Ramadi, Iraq, Email: ag.salwan.mahmood@uoanbar.edu.iqo) : The influence of different sounds on the feeding behavior of broiler chickens and their impact on blood physiologyand conditioning place preference (CPP). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1271-84.

Ten sounds Movement of Chicken Feet (1), Hens with Chicks (2), Clucking (3), Regular Soft Timid Hens (4), Chick to Chick (5), Chicks Peeping (6), Chicks Care (7), Chick Sounds (8), Movement in Hen House (9) and Movement of Chicks (10) were experimentally tested to determine the which best attracted chicks to feed and water. This study was conducted from 01/ April/2015 to 19/April/2015 at the experimental field of the Department of Animal Resources, College of Agriculture, Al-Anbar University, Iraq. Chicks (n=150) were randomly distributed among 10 treatments, which , corresponded to the 10 sounds mentioned above, with three replicates per treatment and 5 chicks per replicate (15 chicks/treatment). Rectangular wooden boxes were designed to test condition place preference (CPP) for sounds, and the study was carried out in four steps: habituation training, pre-conditioning, conditioning, and post-condition. Each day, blood was collected before and after each experimental sessions and analyzed for concentration of total protein, glucose, uric acid and cholesterol and behavioral traits were quantified. We developed a novel equation to calculate the CPP factor, and the results indicated that sounds 1, 4 and 7 yielded significant (P< 0.05) changes in the blood parameters, and best attracted chicks to food and increased in CPP factor.

3 illus, 4 tables, 63 ref

029783   KUMAR S, PATEL P S, KUMAR P (Horticulture Dep, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Univ, Lucknow-226 025, Email: sanjay123bhu@gmail.com) : Genetic variability, heritabilityand genetic advance in cowpea [(Vigna unguiculata(l.) walp.)]. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1268-70.

The present experiment was carried out entitled “Genetic Variability, Heritability, Correlation and Path analysis in Cowpea [(Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)]” during kharif season of the year 2014- 2015 at Horticulture Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University (A Central University), Vidya- Vihar, Rae Bareli Road, Lucknow226025 (U.P.) India. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The experimental materials consisting sixteen genotypes of cowpea i.e. Kashi Unnati, Kashi Shyamal, Kashi Gauri, Kashi Kanchan, Kashi Nidhi, IC-559393, IC-259063, IC-559405, IC-202786, IC-559386, IC-202776, IC-242598, EC-9736, EC-1738, EC-30590 and EC15296. The maximum phenotypic and genotypic variance, genetic advance was observed for average pod yield per plot. The highest of PCV and GCV was recorded in number of primary branches was estimated.

1 table, 16 ref

029844   SAMLINDSUJIN G, KARUPPAIAH P (Horticulture Dep, Annamalai Univ, Chidambaram-608 002, Email: samlindsujin@gmail.com) : General and specific combining ability for yield and shoot and fruit borer incidence in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1263-7.

A field study was carried out in the Department of Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Chidambaram, Tamilnadu, India, during January 2015, with a view to estimate, general and specific combining ability in brinjal for fifteen characters through diallel analysis involving 6 parents. The combining ability analysis revealed highly significant differences among the treatments for all the parameters studied except number of primary branches per plant and number of short styled flowers per plant. The genotype P₁ was found to be the best combiner for shoot and fruit borer incidence, fruit weight and fruit yield per plant. The genotype P₃ was found the best combiner for number of fruits per plant and fruit yield per plant. The top two crosses (P₁ × P₃ and P₁ × P₆ ) with high per se performance have exhibited high SCA effects for yield. Both additive and non-additive gene actions were operating for all the characters except number of primary branches per plant and number of short styled flowers per plant. Therefore, the general combiner can be exploited for the creation of varieties lines, and the presence of specific combining in the hybrids.

3 tables, 17 ref

029720   ANANTH R A, KUMAR S R (Horticulture Dep, Annamalai Univ, Annamalai Nagar-608 002) : Screening of Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus L. (sweet)) genotypes for growth and yield in coastal region of Tamilnadu. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1258-62.

Dolichos bean [Lablab purpureus L. (Sweet)] is consumed as vegetable in several parts of Asia including India due to its high nutritive value. The present study was carried out in Annamalai University with twenty genotypes of dolichos bean to screen high yielding genotype suitable for coastal region of Tamilnadu. Among the twenty genotypes eight genotypes viz., Cuddalore local, Goldy-24, Coimbatore local, Arka Jay, Co (Gb) 14, Ankure goldy, Arka Vijay and Chidambaram local have recorded higher growth and yield attributes than the mean performance. The highest single pod weight (3.95 g), number of pods per plant (54.25), yield per plant (214.02 g) and yield per hectare (11.77 t ha^-1) were observed in genotype Arka Jay was followed by Ankure goldy. As genotype Arka Jay has expressed early flowering and highest values in growth, flowering and yield parameters it was considered as the best among the tested genotypes.

3 tables, 11 ref

029764   KATHAYAT K, RAWAT M, KANDPAL G, PANDEY G, CHAUHAN P, TIWARI R (Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara, Punjab) : Genetic variability in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) : A review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1223-8.

Cucumber is one of the most important member of cucurbitaceae family. It is thought to be originated from India and China, is considered as secondary center of diversity. Inspite of being native of Indian sub-continent and endowed with enormous variability for various plant characters, cucumber remain underutilized in context of its economic potential and breeding value. There is huge scope to work on cucumber improvement in India. For any crop improvement programme, aimed to achieve maximum productivity, a detailed knowledge of facts such as genetic variability, genetic diversity, heritability, genetic advance, correlation and path coefficient of various quantitative traits and their contribution towards yield is essential. Studies in this direction are very less and can not to be generalized for every climatic condition and with other genetic materials. Hence, the information in a collection of some indigenous genotypes of cucumber in order to formulate a sound breeding plan for its improvement has been reviewed here.

40 ref

029864   SINGH J, BAL J S, SINGH S, MIRZA A (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: anis.19474@lpu.co.in) : Assessment of chemicals and growth regulators on fruit ripening and quality: A review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1215-22.

Recently ethylene research have offered more rational basis for explaining some of the effects of exogenously applied chemicals and growth regulators. Thus ethephon promotes ripening and increases ethylene in tissues which advance normal ripening processes and may affect storage quality and as delay harvesting. Agriculture ministry has elucidated that the fruits subjected to ethylene gas in low concentration exogenously prompts ripening and are safe in the concentration ranging from 0.001-0.01 %. Exogenous application of chemicals including growth regulators significantly decrease post-harvest disease incidence leading to increase in post- harvest fruit quality and shelf life. Among these chemical substances, the ethrel has been found to give promising results. It is manifested that application of chemicals to harvested fruits may often produce very various effects in the stored crop to those observed when similar compound is applied to the fruiting tree. It is reviewed and compiled from collected literature that ripening substances affects traits.

73 ref

029739   DEVI J, SINGH R, WALIA I (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411, Email: jyoti.21534@lpu.co.in) : Effect of foliar application of GA₃ and NAA on onion - A review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(2), 1209-14.

Growth regulators are organic compounds other than nutrients, small amount of which are capable of modifying growth. Gibberellic acid and NAA are the important growth regulators which in little concentration stimulate growth and enhances yield. Gibberellin is such a compound that has gibbane skeleton and that stimulate cell division or cell elongation or both. NAA belongs to synthetic forms of auxins. It plays key role in cell elongation, cell division, vascular tissue differentiation, root initiation, apical dominance, leaf senescence, leaf and fruit abscission, fruit setting and flowering. Onion is one of the important crop which gives good response to foliar application of GA₃ and NAA. The important principle like allicin, ajoene, allixine thiosulfnates and sulphites present in onion makes it a potential herb. There is a great need to increase the productivity of onion. Gibberellic acid when used for foliar spray, it increases the number of marketable bulbs in the total yield. Application of GA₃ @ 50 ppm increases plant height and improved leaf length and number of leaves per plant while GA₃ @ 100 ppm increases weight and volume of bulb. The highest bulb yield can be obtained with 200 ppm GA₃ followed by 200 ppm IAA. GA₃, NAA and combination treatments as pre-harvest foliar application have gained prominence.

42 ref

029838   ROY H, RANJAN A (Horticulture (Veg. and Flori.) Dep, Bihar Agricultural Univ, Bhagalpur-813 210, Email: drashishranjan2209@gmail.com) : Clinicopathological study of liver abscess in Eastern Indian population. J Evolution Med Dent Sci 2018, 7(39), 4307-12.

A descriptive study of Liver abscess is defined as collection of purulent material in liver parenchyma. It could be amoebic, pyogenic, infected hydatid, traumatic or ascaridal. It is a burning problem in tropical nations with often lethal consequences and diagnostic/therapeutic challenges. This study aims to find out the demographic distribution, different modes of presentations, risk factors association, alteration of various laboratory and radiological investigations in diagnosis of liver abscess and responses to standard institutional management strategies. Medical records were taken by preformed case, Proforma. Descriptive statistics were used and analysed by SPSS software. 3/4th of cases belonged to 4th to 6th decade. Males were more commonly affected than females. Alcoholism was the most consistent risk factor followed by diabetes mellitus. Most common presenting symptom and sign were abdominal pain and abdominal tenderness in right hypochondriac region respectively. Most common aetiology of liver abscess was amoebic followed by mixed amoebic and pyogenic infections. The most common organisms obtained from pus C/S from liver abscess were Enterococcus spp. and Escherichia coli. Abnormal chest x-ray findings were recorded in > 50 % of cases. USG showed majority of cases had large, solitary liver abscess in right lobe of liver. Most common complication observed was intraabdominal rupture of liver abscess, for which open surgical drainage was performed. Recurrence was observed more following conservative management than other modalities.

15 ref

028592   MACIEL K S, LIMA P A M D, MORAES S D P C B, ALEXANDRE R S, LOPES J C (Federal Southern Bahiaences Univ, 45604-811, Ilhéus, Bahia, Brazil, Email: khetrinmaciel@gmail.com) : Bean seeds under salt stress as a function of nitric oxide. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(4), 795-801.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the bean seeds under salt stress as a function of nitric oxide (NO). Four bean genotypes (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) seeds G1 = peanut; G2 = white carioca; G3 = red carioca and G4 = black that were previously immersed in four sildenafil citrate concentrations: 0; 25; 50 and 75 mg L^-1 for 120 min, and placed to germinate under induced stress with NaCl at -0.8 MPa, on a germitest paper roll. The design was completely randomized, with four replicates per treatment and for the effect of sildenafil citrate concentrations, the data were submitted to regression analysis. Salinity stress with sodium chloride at -0.8 MPa reduces bean genotypes germination and seed vigor. Sildenafil citrate at a concentration of 50 mg L^-1 reduced the effect of salinity stress on bean genotypes, and G1 and G3 showed a greater response under salinity stress with sodium chloride at -0.8 MPa.

2 illus, 2 tables, 37 ref

028588   BORAH N, ATHOKPAM F D, SEMWAL R L, GARKOTI S C (Jawaharlal Nehru Univ, New Delhi-110 067, Email: sgarkoti@yahoo.com) : Chakhao (black rice; Oryza sativa L.): A culturally important and stress tolerant traditional rice variety of Manipur. Indian J Tradit Know 2018, 17(4), 789-94.

Chakhao (Black rice; Oryza sativa L.) is one of the lesser known traditional rice varieties of Manipur which provides not only nutraceutical benefits, but also plays a significant role in socio-cultural practices of the local Meitei community. This paper describes indigenous agro-ecological knowledge and socio-cultural practices of Meitei farmers associated with black rice cultivation. A total of 72 knowledge holders were identified through chain referrals method in three representative villages in Imphal East district of Manipur. Semi-directive interview and group discussion methods were employed for documentation of their knowledge and socio-cultural practices. In all four black rice landraces (viz., Chakhao poireiton, Chakhao angouba, Chakhao amubi and Chakhao pungdol amubi) were recorded in the study area. About 57 % of the farmers in the study area cultivated black rice in < 10 % of their land holdings. According to the farmers all these landraces of black rice are relatively stress tolerant and disease resistant and require less care and energy inputs. Black rice is used in different religio-cultural feasts and rituals of Meiteis. Beside it is also used as a medicine for diabetic patients and traditionally given to pregnant women. Cultural practices of Meiteis help conserving the agro-biodiversity in the study area.

5 illus, 3 tables, 24 ref

028595   SELAVINAYAGAM K T, DHARMAR K (Thevar Memorial Coll, Kamuthi-626 604, Tamilnadu, Email: seaweedselva@gmail.com) : Screening of Gracilaria canaliculata as seed stock based on physico-chemical properties of agar for cultivation. Indian J Geo-Mar Sci 2018, 47(10), 2110-6.

Gracilaria canaliculata is an indigenous economically important agarophyte was studied to identify the superior biomass which can be used as seed stock for cultivation. Analysis of variance for agar properties showed significant difference (p<0.05) in gelling temperature and melting temperature within all samples. The outliers, Gc4-Kilakarai sample showed at much higher distances in rescaled distance cluster combine (25) among the groups. Gracilaria canaliculata collected from Gc4-Kilakarai is superior in biomass based morphological and physico-chemical properties of Agar. It can be utilized as a potential source of seed stock for farming in open sea.

6 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

028589   DHILLON M K, SINGH N, TANWAR A K, YADAVA D K, VASUDEVA S (ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-110 012, Email: mukeshdhillon@rediffmail.com) : Standardization of screening techniques for resistance to Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) in rapeseed-mustard under field conditions. Indian J Exp Biol 2018, 56(9), 674-85.

The population and damage by aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) in Brassica spp. is highly variable across seasons and regions, wherein screening of rapeseed-mustard genotypes under natural infestation conditions has not been rewarding for aphid resistance. Since no reliable screening technique is in place, we developed and evaluated various screening techniques to differentiate diverse mustard genotypes for resistance to L. erysimi under field conditions. Artificial infestation at bud formation stage with 20 mixed stage aphids pinned with bell pins on the top third branch near inflorescence was found most appropriate and effective for establishment of aphids at inoculation site. Evaluation of mustard genotypes under multi-choice natural infestation revealed maximum variability in L. erysimi resistance indices, but plot cage artificial screening technique was found appropriate over natural infestation for multi-choice assays. Genotypes Heera and PDZM 31 showed susceptible to highly susceptible reaction against L. erysimi under all the artificial infestation screening techniques. However, PM 30, PM 21, Pusa Bold and Pusa Vijay displayed variable resistance reactions under different screening techniques. Although no-choice twig cage and plant cage techniques showed significant differences in test mustard genotypes for various aphid resistance indices, the twig cage technique revealed maximum variability and could differentiate them at slightest variation in levels of tolerance/susceptibility to L. erysimi. The rate of L. erysimi multiplication on test mustard genotypes was highly variable under plant cage as compared to twig cage. The twig cage technique also successfully differentiated the double low erucic acid and total glucosinolate, single low erucic acid, and conventional varieties with high erucic acid and total glucosinolate groups of mustard genotypes for L. erysimi resistance. The multiplication rate and ease in scouting of aphids, easy handling and cost of the cage, and natural plant growth conditions are some of the most favourable factors, suggesting twig cage technique more précised, realistic, economical, and efficient for artificial screening of rapeseed-mustard for resistance against the aphid L. erysimi infestation.

2 illus, 4 tables, 41 ref

027259   GANAPATHI D, DURAISAMY V M, SHRIDAR B (TNAU, Coimbatore - 641 003, Email: durairaj.ganapathy@gmail.com) : Development and optimization of rotary blade for tillage equipment. Int J Agric Environ Biotechnol 2018, 11(4), 673-7.

In comparison with tractor drawn implements, rotary tillers are of particular interest in final seedbed preparation. In India vertical axis rotary tiller has been introduced in recent years by some farm equipment manufacturers. Farmers claim difference between horizontal and vertical axis rotary action but there are no scientific work compare them. Some research has been done on comparison between rotavator and conventional tillage implements. In this research, a quantitative basis for the description of torque created by different rake angle is given. The design optimization in terms of torque requirement has been carried out for the different rake angle viz., 5, 10 and 15 degree; forward speed viz., 2.0, 2.5, 3.0 and 3.5; rotor rpm viz., 220, 270 and 310. At all groups the investigations indicated that the optimum torque was produced at 2.5 kmph with 270 rpm when the rake angle is 10^° .

4 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

027258   KHUMAN O N, SINGH Y J, SARKAR A, UPADHYAY A D, PAL P, BHARATI H, SINGH S K, PEGU C, BORAH K (Central Agricultural Univ (Imphal), Tripura - 799 210, Email: nareshoinam3@gmail.com) : Knowledge level of fish farmers on scientific farming of Pengba (Osteobrama belangeri) in the valleys of Manipur. Int J Agric Environ Biotechnol 2018, 11(4), 661-4.

A study was conducted to understand the knowledge level of fish farmers on scientific Pengba farming practices in the valleys of Manipur. Imphal West, Bishnupur, and Thoubal districts were purposively selected based on the higher concentration of Pengba farmers. After consultation with Department of Fisheries, Government of Manipur and with the village key informants, a total of 80 respondents were selected for the study. Primary data were collected through pre tested and structured interview schedule. Analysis of the collected data showed that majority (50 %) of the respondents had medium level of knowledge towards scientific farming of Pengba. It was found that majority of the respondents had good knowledge of stocking appropriate size of Pengba in grow out ponds with a mean score value of 0.97. The study also revealed that the socio personal and socio economic characteristic such as age, experience in fisheries activities, annual income from Pengba farming and scientific orientation had significant relationship with the extent of knowledge level of the fish farmers towards scientific farming of Pengba at 5 % level of significance.

4 tables, 5 ref

027257   KUMAR A, SAINI J P, RAMESHWAR, CHOPRA P (Agronomy Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur – 176 062, Email: ashish2587@hotmail.com) : The comparative cost and profit analysis of organic and nonorganic farming practices in the mid Himalayan region. Int J Agric Environ Biotechnol 2018, 11(4), 633-9.

The experiment was laid out in split plot design with three farming practices as main plots and four cropping systems as subplots with three replications. Among the farming practices organic farming practice (7571.40 kg ha^-1) resulted in significantly highest MGEY where as production efficiency was found to be significantly higher under organic farming practice (20.74 kg ha^-1 day^-1) which remained at par with integrated farming practice (19.97 kg ha^-1 day^-1) and were found superior over inorganic farming practice. With non premium pricing inorganic farming practice resulted in lowest cost of cultivation and higher B:C ratio and Integrated farming practice resulted in higher net returns over organic farming practice. While, with the premium pricing of organic produce organic farming practice resulted in higher gross and net returns over inorganic farming practices. It is the premium price that makes organic systems more profitable. However, even without premiums, organic systems may be more profitable than conventional systems in the long run as organic management will enhance overall farm value. 

2 tables, 12 ref

027256   MUTHURAMALINGAM T, JEMIMAH E R, GNANARAJ P T, POTHIAPPAN P, DEVI T, SUNDARAM A S (Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Chennai- 600 051, Email: drdevi.t@gmail.com) : Influence of high protein level along with mineral mixture and baking soda supplementation on growth performance and carcass quality in Tellicherry kids. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1195-7.

For studying the effect of accelerated feeding method on growth and carcass traits thirty male kids (aged 30 -45 days) of Tellicherry breed were divided into two groups, control (C) and test (T) groups. The control group kids were fed with concentrate feed consisting of 15 % crude protein (CP) and 75 % Total Digestible Nutrient (TDN). The test group kids were fed with concentrate feed containing of 21 % crude Protein (CP) and 75 % Total Digestible Nutrient (TDN).  Significant (P < 0.01) increase in body weight in average total body weight gain and average daily body weight were observed in both groups. Cost of production per kg live weight gain significantly (P < 0.0001) reduced. High significant difference (P < 0.01) was noticed in pre slaughter weight, carcass weight, dressed weight, dressing percentage, weight of stomach, head and liver. The present study concluded that feeding the kids with high protein level along with mineral mixure had significantly increased the body weight gain, growth performance, dressing percentage, carcass yield and quality.

1 illus, 4 tables, 7 ref

027254   SUMA N, REDDY B S V, GLORIDOSS R G, PRABHU T M, SURESH B N, JAISHANKAR N, ANITHA K C (Animal Nutrition Dep, Animal and Fisheries Sciences Univ, Bangalore- 560 024, Email: sumavet@gmail.com) : Gross efficiency of protein and metabolisable energy utilization of sugarcane press residue incorporated in layer diets. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1185-9.

Sugarcane press residue (SPR), a nonconventional feed ingredient is a soft, spongy, amorphous, dark brown to white material was fed to 32-week-old white-leghorn-layer at 0, 5, 10 and 15 per cent either in the soya-based or fish-based diets to form T1 to T8 diets, respectively. Each diet so formulated was offered to five-replicates of four laying-hens each constituting a total of one-sixty birds reared for 84-days. Results revealed that the cumulative efficiency of protein utilization values of layers fed different experimental diets were 29.36, 28.62, 27.20, 29.11, 27.90, 28.21, 28.02 and 25.95 in T₁ through T₈ groups, respectively. Likewise, efficiency of energy utilization values ranged non-significantly from 28.18 (T₁) to 24.84 (T₈). Whereas, average EPU and EEU values due to main factors were found to be statistically non-significant. It was concluded that SPR can be included up to 15 % in soya and fish based layer diets for energy and protein utilization apart from inorganic-matter.

1 illus, 4 tables, 36 ref

027253   SARKAR S, MOHINI M, MONDAL G, PANDITA S, NAMPOOTHIRI V M,GAUTAM M (Animal Nutrition Div, ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal- 132 001, Email: sarkarsrobana@gmail.com) : Effect of supplementing Aegle marmelos leaves on in vitro rumen fermentation and methanogenesis of diets varying in roughage to concentrate ratio. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1180-4.

The present study was undertaken to observe the effect of supplementing Aegle marmelos leaves on in vitro rumen fermentation and methane production of different diets containing varied proportion of roughage (R) to concentrate (C). Aegle marmelos (Bael) leaves was supplemented at 4 levels (0, 5, 10 & 15 %) to three diets having roughage (R) and concentrate (C) (wheat straw and concentrate mixture) in the ratio 70:30, 50:50 and 30:70. Inclusion of Aegle leaves at different levels showed significant rise in total gas (mL/g DM) among different diets. Similarly, Aegle marmelos leaves at the rate of 15 % improved (P<0.05) the IVTDMD and IVTOMD (%) of the experimental diets. Among the VFA’s acetate concentration (mM) was significantly enhanced at 15 % of Aegle marmelos supplementation. No significant effect was observed in the values of CH₄ ( %, mL/24h and mL/100mg DDM) and NH₃ -N (mg/dL) on supplementation of Aegle leaves if any of the diets. Therefore, it can be concluded from the present findings that supplementation of Aegle marmelos leaves enhances the digestibility hence it can be used to improve the nutritive value of diets.

3 tables, 36 ref

027252   SAWANT P J, RAI D C, YADAV S P (Animal Husbandry and Dairying Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi- 221 005, Email: sawantpushkraj@gmail.com) : Assessment of impact of feeding fermented karonda (Carissa carandas) whey beverage on biochemical parameters of Albino rats. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1162-6.

The present study was conducted to evaluate the impact of feeding fermented karonda whey beverage (FKWB) on biochemical parameters of albino rats. A total of 24 albino rats (male) of age 28 ± 3 days and weighing 80 to 95 gm were randomly divided into four groups (n=6) and assigned to experimental dietary treatment. Experimental groups consisted of control group fed with basal ration only and groups fed with basal ration containing 10 %, 20 % and 30 % FKWB. Results showed that levels of BUN, creatinine, SGOT, SGPT were significantly (p0.05) effect on cholesterol and protein levels, while its consumption reduced triglyceride level.

1 table, 43 ref

027251   MISHRA G, SIDDIQUI M F, INGLE V S, PAL R S (Livestock Production and Management Dep, Veterinary and Animal Sciences Coll, Parbhani- 431 402, Email: geeteshmishra09@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis of reproductive traits of Tharparker cattle at organized farms in Rajasthan. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1129-33.

The present study was carried out from the data obtained on the reproduction performance of 95 Tharparkar cattle over the period 1995-2014. The overall least squares mean and standard error for age at first calving, service period, gestation period, dry period and intercalving period were 1769.07 ± 29.80, 117.53 ± 2.39, 281.62 ± 0.37, 105.03 ± 2.09 and 399.97 ± 2.44 days, respectively. The Least Squares Analysis of Variance has revealed that there was a significant effect of sire ( P < 0.01) and period (P < 0.05) on age at first calving and the service period is significantly influenced by period and parity of the animal. Similarly the gestation period was affected by parity, dry period was affected by period of study and inter calving period was substantially influenced by period and parity of the animal. The observed correlation coefficients among different reproductive traits were significant to highly significant where as the estimates of heritability for the same traits were low to moderate. The significant effect of several non-genetic factors on most of the reproductive traits suggesting that they are low heritable and cannot be improved by conventional selection methods but can only be improved through effective management practices, nutrition, health etc.

5 tables, 18 ref

027250   KUMAR A, MANDAL A, GUPTA A K, KARUNAKARAN M, DAS S K, DUTTA T K (ICAR- National Dairy Research Institute, Kalyani - 741 235, Email: anshuman.nanhe@gmail.com) : Genetic analysis of fertility traits in Jersey crossbred cows. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1113-8.

The present study was carried out to evaluate the genetic and non-genetic factors affecting fertility traits viz., number of service per conception (NSPC), service period (SP) and calving interval (CI) and genetic and phenotypic parameters of these traits in Jersey crossbred cattle, maintained at Eastern Regional Station of ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Kalyani, West Bengal over a period of 39 years (1976-2014). The least squares means for the NSPC, SP and CI were 1.73 ± 0.08 inseminations, 156.37 ± 7.47 days and 458.32 ± 9.56 days respectively. The study revealed that all the traits were decreasing significantly with parity number. Season was important in determining service period, whereas period of calving influenced calving interval in this study. NSPC, SP and CI did not differ significantly among different genetic groups; but, half-breds of Jersey and Tharparkar (½ Jersey-½ Tharparkar) showed comparatively lower NSPC, SP and CI than halfbreds of Jersey and Red Sindhi and other crosses in this study. The random effect of sire was highly significant on all the fertility traits considered in this study. Heritability estimates for NSPC, SP and CI were 0.08 ± 0.06, 0.18 ± 0.08 and 0.16 ± 0.08 respectively. All the three analyzed traits had close genetic relationships. Low to moderate heritability of reproductive traits indicates slow genetic progress through selection and further improvement in reproductive performance can be made either by better management practices or including large number of polymorphic markers associated with fertility in the population to assist animal selection.

4 tables, 30 ref

027249   SINGH P, SINGH M K, ROUT P K, DIGE M S (Central Institute for Research on Goats, Mathura - 281 122, Email: manojnaip@gmail.com) : Association of the CSN1S1 gene polymorphism with milk composition traits in Jamunapari goat. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(8), 1107-12.

The genetic polymorphism of the CSN1S1 (casein alpha-s₁) locus was investigated in Jamunapari goat breed by Sodium Dodicyle Sulphate – Poly Acrylamide Gel Electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) and Polymerase Chain Reaction – Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). A total of 122 milk and blood samples were collected. The SDS-PAGE pattern revealed the presence of four variants of CSN1S1 locus namely, A, B, E and F. The A allele of $\mathrm{\alpha }$-s1 – casein was observed in the majority of goats. The genotypic frequency of the AA, BB, BE, AF and FF genotypes of CSN1S1 locus were 0.437, 0.175, 0.250, 0.125 and 0.012, respectively. The PCR-RFLP was performed, six different variant groups of F allele (224)bp, the B/E allelic pair (161 + 63) bp, A/0 allelic pair (150 + 63) bp, AD allelic pair (212 + 150 + 63) bp, AF allelic pair (224 + 150 + 63) bp and BF allelic pair (224 + 160 + 63) were obtained after restriction digestion with XmnI. The genotypic frequency of AA, AD, AF, BB, BE, BF and BC genotypes were 0.274, 0.114, 0.147, 0.098, 0.163, 0.081 and 0.163, respectively. The allelic frequency of A, B, C, D, E and F were 0.360, 0.303, 0.081, 0.057, 0.081 and 0.114, respectively. The present study showed that AA genotype had significant effect on total protein content on the milk and AD genotype had significant effect on 90 day milk yield in Jamunapari goat. Thus the CSN1S1 genotype information in Jamunapari could be utilised in selection strategies, in order to select genetic stock for the production of goat milk with higher protein content in marker assisted selection to increase the rate of genetic gain.

4 illus, 3 tables, 34 ref

027248   SANDHU K S, MALIK D S, CHANDRAHAS, SAHOO S P, SAINI A L (Livestock Production Management Dep, Guru Angad Dev Veterinary and Animal Sciences Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: kinnder9@gmail.com) : Effect of weight and age based split weaning on growth performances and welfare of large white Yorkshire piglets. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 1087-90.

With an objective to minimize the weaning stress and to maximize the welfare, early weaning was combined with split weaning in 41 piglets of Large White Yorkshire (LWY). Weaning method was either “Weight Based Early or Split Weaning” i.e. T_ES or “Conventional Weaning” i.e. T_C and treated as control. The weaning age in T_C was 56 days. In T_ES, heavier (> 1.5 kg) medium weighing (1.0-1.5 kg) and lighter (< 1.0 kg) piglets were weaned at 30 (T_ESH), 37 days (T_ESM) and 42 days (T_ESL), respectively. Different records pertaining to body weight, feed consumption, haematological profiles etc. were collected up to 120 days. At the end of the study period, body weight of piglets was almost equal in both groups. The overall ADG at the end of study period was almost equal in all three sub-groups and in control. FCR of piglets under split and conventional weaning groups was significantly better (P<0.05) in T_ESH than Tc group, both during pre- and postweaning period. The PCV (%) and TLC value under different sub-groups of split-weaned piglets were almost similar to different sub-groups of conventionally weaned piglets and were within normal range. There were significant differences among haemoglobin level among different sub-group of T_ES and Tc and it was within the range of normal reference value. From the present study it can be concluded that split weaned piglets performed almost equally to conventionally weaned piglets.

4 tables, 10 ref

027247   JÓNÁS E M, ATASEVER S, HAVRANEK E (Animal Husbandry Dep, Szeged Univ, Hodmezovasarhely, Hungary, Email: satasev@omu.edu.tr) : Effect of premilking teat sanitation on milk composition, somatic cell count and test day milk yield in Holstein cows. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 1077-81.

The objective of the present study was to determine the efficacy of premilking teat sanitation applications on milk composition, somatic cell count (SCC) and test day milk yield (TDMY) in Holstein cows. The research was conducted in two private farms located in Hódmezõvásárhely, South- Hungary. In the first trial, only water and drying application (WD) was practiced to 791 cows and in the second trial, disinfectant solution and drying application (DD) was performed to 1418 cows. Fat (F), protein (P) and lactose (L) were tested as the milk parameters and SCC and TDMY records were also evaluated. To investigate the effects of non-genetic factors on the parameters, four parity and three days in milk groups were designed. L, SCC and TDMY were affected by parity in both applications, and P affected by DD (P<0.01). All traits were affected by DIM in both applications (P<0.05 or P<0.01). While positive correlations were estimated between F and P; F and SCC; P and SCC; L and TDMY; the negative correlations were determined between F and L; F and TDMY; P and L; P and TDMY; L and SCC; SCC and TDMY. The means of F, P and SCC were higher in DD, but L and TDMY were higher in WD (P<0.05). The study revealed that cleaning the udder using plenty of water and drying the teats with clean clothes are suggested to dairy owners as a preferential premilking application to obtain high quality milk.

1 illus, 2 tables, 16 ref

027246   SINHA B, MANDAL K G, KUMARI R, KUMARI A, GONGE D S (ICAR- NDRI, Karnal- 132 001, Email: bkumarvet@gmail.com) : Genetic impact on external and internal egg quality traits of Vanaraja and Gramapriya birds and their crosses in Bihar. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 953-8.

Poultry farming is gaining strength in mitigating livelihood and nutritional security to the poor farmers which constitute 60 % of the India’s population. Thus eggs of superior quality is prerequisite for profitable marketing and for hatchability too. The present study was conducted on two improved varieties,  Vanaraja (dual purpose type) and Gramapriya  (the layer type) chicken developed at PDP, Hyderabad and their crosses on random mating. The genetic groups taken were Gramapriya (male) x Gramapriya (female),Vanaraja (male) x Vanaraja (female), Gramapriya (male) x Vanaraja (female) and Vanaraja (male) x Gramapriya (female). 6 males and 30 females were taken from each genetic group and maintained separately under deep litter system with a mating ratio of 1 male : 5 females. To study the genetic effect on external and internal egg quality traits, a total of more than 50 eggs were collected at random from each of 4 genetic groups upto 28 weeks of age. The average shell thickness obtained to be ranged from 0.36 to 0.39 mm. The average albumen and yolk indices were found to be ranged from 7.396 to 8.656 and 41.749 to 43.888 respectively. The average shell weight and percentage of shell weight observed to be ranged from 4.147 to 5.627 g and 17.266 to 18.003 % respectively.

2 tables, 20 ref

027245   AVINASHILINGAM N A V, SINGH V B, SINGH B, TEWARI P (ICAR- Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur- 342 003, Email: vijay.avinashilingam@rediffmail.com) : Identifying influential variables on livestock breeding and rearing knowledge level of cattle keepers in Jodhpur District of Rajasthan. Indian J Anim Res 2018, 52(7), 947-52.

The study was conducted in Jodhpur district of Rajasthan in the year 2016-17.  Two villages namely Rajasani and Chopasani Charnan of Tiwri block of Jodhpur district were selected randomly from ICAR-CAZRI’s Mera Gaon Mera Gaurav Initiative (MGMGI) programme. A predetermined sample of sixty respondents, 30 respondents per village were randomly selected. The data were collected through observations with the help of a personal interview schedule. The study revealed that majority of the respondents (36.66 %) belonged to old aged group (> 55 years) and had their education (31.67 %) up to middle level. Dairying with agriculture profession was the most (93.33 per cent) prevalent occupation. The data regarding family size indicates that majority of respondents (85 %) are having 4 – 10 members and more than fifty per cent (53.33 %) of the respondents had farm size of 1 – 2 ha. About 68.00 per cent of the respondents possess 1- 2 milch animals. Majority (81.67 %) of the respondents were in medium level of mass media exposure and extension agency contact. Almost 88.37 per cent of the respondents were not participated socially. Regarding the amount of milk production, 63.34 per cent farmers produced about 2 – 5 litres milk per day. More than two-third of the respondents were having medium annual income (Rs. 14,642 – Rs.32, 924) and economic motivation. Among the dairy farmers, more than half of the respondents were medium in their progressiveness and religious belief, while two third of the respondents (75 %) had medium level of Fatalism-Scientism. Further the study revealed that the majority of dairy farmers (53.34 %), possessed medium level of knowledge followed by 23.33 per cent each of low and high categories. The results obtained from simple correlation and path analysis indicated that the characters extension agency contact and annual income had strong positive correlation and high magnitude of positive direct effects on knowledge level about dairy farming practices.

4 tables, 8 ref

027244   TABKHKAR N, RABIEI B, LAHIJI H S, CHALESHTORI M H (Agronomy and Plant Breeding Dep, Guilan Univ, Rasht, Iran, Email: rabiei@guilan.ac.ir) : Genetic variation and association analysis of the SSR markers linked to the major drought-yield QTLs of rice. Biochem Genet 2018, 56(4), 356–74.

Drought is one of the major abiotic stresses, which hampers the production of rice worldwide. Informative molecular markers are valuable tools for improving the drought tolerance in various varieties of rice. The present study was conducted to evaluate the informative simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers in a diverse set of rice genotypes. The genetic diversity analyses of the 83 studied rice genotypes were performed using 34 SSR markers closely linked to the major quantitative trait loci (QTLs) of grain yield under drought stress (qDTYs). In general, our results indicated high levels of polymorphism. In addition, we screened these rice genotypes at the reproductive stage under both drought stress and nonstressful conditions. The results of the regression analysis demonstrated a significant relationship between 11 SSR marker alleles and the plant paddy weight under stressful conditions. Under the nonstressful conditions, 16 SSR marker alleles showed a significant correlation with the plant paddy weight. Finally, four markers (RM279, RM231, RM166, and RM231) demonstrated a significant association with the plant paddy weight under both stressful and nonstressful conditions. These informative associated alleles may be useful for improving the crop yield under both drought stress and non stressful conditions in breeding programs.

2 illus, 5 tables, 51 ref

027243   JHANAVI D R, PATIL H B, RANJITHA B M, JUSTIN P, KAVYASHREE N, PRIYANKA (Vegetable Science Dep, Horticulture Coll, Bagalkot- 587 103, Email: jhanavidr@gmail.com) : Correlation studies for growth, yield and quality traits in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 736-41.

An experiment of correlation studies in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) for twenty one characters were studied in 36 genotypes collected from IIHR, Hesaraghatta, conducted during rabi season of the year 2015-16 to know the relative magnitude of association of various characters with yield. Total yield per plant was found to be positively and significantly (p=0.01) associated with plant height at 25 DAS and 50 DAS, number of primary branches at 50 DAS plant spread (N-S) (E-W) at 25 DAS and 50, pod length, pod flesh thickness, number of seeds perpod, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, number of pods per plant, weight of ten pods, dry matter content of pods and number of root nodules per plant, whereas days to first flowering, days to 50 % flowering, days to first pod maturity and pod width showed negative and significant association both at genotypic and phenotypic level.

2 tables, 21 ref

027242   JHANAVI D R, PATIL H B, RANJITHA B M, JUSTIN P, KAVYASHREE N, PRIYANKA (Vegetable Science Dep, Horticulture Coll, Bagalkot- 587 103, Email: jhanavidr@gmail.com) : Path analysis studies for growth, yield and quality traits in French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(3), 730-5.

An experiment of path analysis studies in French bean (Phaseolus  vulgaris L.) for twenty one characters were studied in 36 genotypes collected fom IIHR, Hesaraghatta, conducted during rabi season of the year 2015-16 to know the relative magnitude of association of various characters with yield. The studies revealed that significant positive association at genotypic level among the traits viz., number of clusters per plant (0.673), number of pods per cluster (0.523), weight of ten pods (0.345), plant spread (E-W) at 50  DAS (0.220), plant height at 50 DAS (0.144) and pod length (0.121) had exhibited true association with direct effect on yield per plant. The direct selection for these traits would be rewarding for improvement in the total yield per plant.

2 tables, 23 ref