025963   SENTHILKUMAR S, VIJAYAKUMAR R M, SOORIANATHASUNDARAM K (Horticulture Dep., Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara- 144 411, Email: senthilshanmugam87@gmail.com) : Pre-harvest implications and utility of plant bioregulators on grape- A review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 19-27.

Application of plant bioregulators have been focused by many researchers in areas of plant physiology. Several fruit development activities like chemical thinning, increasing fruit set and size, enhancing colouration and enhancing or delaying ripening of fruits have been reported to be affected by the use of various growth regulators. Among several growth regulators, gibberellic acid found to have a potentiality on enhancing the division and expansion of pericarp cells of grape berries in both seeded and seedless grape cultivars. CPPU (Forchlorfenuron) acts synergistically with natural auxins and its primary effects cause the regulation of fruit set, berry growth and development. Brassinosteroids (BR) shown to be involved in numerous plant processes like promotion of cell division, cell wall regeneration, cell expansion and cell elongation, in synergism with auxin and promotion of vascular differentiation in grape.

90 ref

025962   SINGH J, MIRZA A, SINGH S, SINGH P (Horticulture Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara-144 411) : Impact of phytohormones on physio-chemical properties of tropical and subtropical fruits: A Review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 12-8.

The plant hormones are exceptionally important agent in the combination of developmental events. Plant growth regulators are generally used to advance the quality of fruits including physio-chemical properties of fruits. Their role in extending shelf life of harvested fruits cannot be denied. Environmental influences often put inductive effects by tempting changes in metabolism and circulation inside the plant. Moreover they also control countenance of inherent genetic prospective of plants. Control of genetic manifestation has been established for the plant hormone at transcriptional and translational stages. Also, hormone receptors and binding proteins have been recognized on surface of the membrane that is precise for various hormones. The use of PGR has become a significant part of agro-technical processes for many cultivated particularly for fruit plants.

59 ref

025961   RESHMA V S, ADARSH M N, DHANUSH K V (Horticulture Dep, Lalbagh Botanical Garden, Bengaluru, Email: reshmaresu143@gmail.com) : Development of hybrids in cole crops: A review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1-11.

The significant global rise in agricultural output over the last few decades has been contributed by hybrid breeding. An efficient pollination control system is required to avoid the unwanted self-pollination or sib-pollination of the female parental line in hybrid breeding programme. With the use of cost effective mechanisms to produce large scale hybrids utilizing selected parental lines ultimately determines the commercial viability of the hybrid varieties. In cole crops, heterosis shown positive response towards high yield, uniform maturity, earliness, tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses and better quality produce. Although, crosses in cole crops is mainly done by use of controlled pollination and genetic emasculation techniques viz., self-incompatibility (SI) and male sterility for commercial hybrid seed production, which is economically feasible. Almost all the cultivars of cole crops grownare F₁ hybrids, mainly developed by male sterility and SI mechanisms have been evolvedfor the development of experimental and commercial hybrids.

1 table, 52 ref

025899   FAQIRI G M, HAMAYOUN H, ZAHERIAN G A (Horticulture Dep., Ghazni Univ, Afghanistan) : Effect of inter and intra row spacing on the growth and yield components of onion (Allium cepa L.) at Khuja Omeri district, Ghazni, Afghanistan. Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2018, 5(4), 9-12.

Onion is one of the most important high market value bulb crops cultivated commercially in most parts of the world. It is the most cultivated and high market value of vegetable crops In Afghanistan specially Ghazni. However, bulb yield of onion is limited due to improper use of plant spacing. Therefore, this study was held to determine the optimum planting spacing of Onion to maximize its productivity in 2016 and 2017 under irrigation conditions. The trial contains treatment of singe planting pattern of 20 x 10, 40 x 10, 30 x 5, 30 x 7.5, 30 x 10 and 30 x 12.5 cm inter and intra spacing respectively and double planting pattern combinations of four intra plant spacing (5, 7.5,10 and 12.5 cm) and two levels of inter spacing (40 and 50 cm) by means of total fourteen treatments were carried out in Factorial Randomized Block Design (FRBD) with three replications. The current findings showed that plant height, bulb size, bulb weight, total bulb yield and marketable bulb yield were significantly influenced by planting spacing. Accordingly, the tallest plant height (37.70 cm) was obtained at a spacing of single planting of 40 cm inter row and 10 cm intra row while the maximum total bulb yield of 27.01 ton ha^-1) was recorded at a spacing of double planting pattern of 40 cm inter and 5 cm intra row in both years. Therefore, 40 cm inter row and 5 cm intra rowspacing in double row planting manner is recommended for the growers to improve onion productivity in the study area.

4 tables, 14 ref

025886   MUNTHE K P S M, DAHANG D (Quality Univ, North Sumatra, Indonesia) : Hosting of Hendersonia against Ganoderma (Ganoderma boniense) disease in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis jacq). Int J Multidiscip Res Dev 2018, 5(3), 46-50.

Ganoderma disease still become a big tricky of oil palm development in Indonesia. The problem occurs almost throughout the country from Sumatra to Papua, and it has been one of the foremost factors of decline the production of palm oil recently. As an interface between field and laboratory study, in this research we address to one research question, does Hendersonia work to control expansion of Ganoderma in established oil palm and seedlings that warrant a new approach in cultivating. We studied 16 plants represented of seedlings and matured in two different locations, PT. IKS at Petapahan Village, Riau Province, January to April, 2017 and PT. INEC at Air Molek, Riau Province also Januari to April 2017. We used sub-soil system for both matured and seedlings. After one year we took some parts of roots the plants as samples in laboratory. Results of the study shown, Hendersonia found and grow up appropriately both in roots of seedlings and fully grown plants. In established plants the Hendersonia found in 4-7 parts of roots or around 14 %-28 % and in seedlings the fungus found almost same, 6-7 parts or 24 %-28 %. Nevertheless, none of Hendersonia found in plants of control.

4 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

025868   THIRUGNANAVEL A, SARASWATHI M S, BACKIYARANI S, UMA S, DURAI P, KUMAR B V (ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur- 440 033, Maharashtra) : Evaluation of genetic variability in wild Musa sp suitable for ornamental value. Curr Hort 2018, 6(2), 12-6.

The studies were carried out to evaluate five wild banana (Musa spp.) and three hybrids for morphological characters and their suitability of ornamental value based on 12 quantitative and 6 qualitative traits at NRC for Banana, Tiruchirappalli, during 2016-17. The results showed that all the eight species varied significantly for all the traits. The wild were dwarf (1.0 m height) and little sturdy ( >30.0 cm stem girth). The wild bananas recorded an average of 4 hands/bunch and 4 fruits/hand while hybrids recorded more than 4 hands/bunch and 10 fruits/hand. The inflorescence was erect and bract colour ranged from lilac, brick-red, red, yellow and pink. Based on the study, the wild bananas were highly suitable for potted plants, cut flowers, male inflorescence, and landscape plants while hybrids were suitable only for landscape purposes.

3 tables, 18 ref

025867   GAO W, CHI G, LIU C, WU Q (Yangtze Univ, Hubei 434 025, China, Email: wuqiangsh@163.com) : Evaluation of exogenous application of EE-GRSP on soil aggregation and root hormone levels in trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata) under drought stress. Curr Hort 2018, 6(2), 7-11.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of exogenous EE-GRSP on soil aggregate distribution and root hormone levels under drought stress using controlled potted conditions, at College of Horticulture and Gardening, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, thubei, China. The easily extracted glomalin-related soil protein (EEGRSP) was collected from rhizosphere soil of Satsuma mandarin orchard established on trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata Rafin), at Jingzhou, China. The EE-GRSP solution was exogenously applied weekly into rhizosphere of trifoliate orange exposed to well-watered (WW) and drought stress (DS) under potted conditions. After 41 days, exogenous EE-GRSP significantly increased leaf relative water content under WW and DS, compared with nonEE-GRSP treatment. Application of EE-GRSP significantly increased root gibberellins, methyl-jasmonate (MeJA), zeatin riboside (ZR), and brassinosteroids (BRs) concentrations under WW and DS conditions over non-EE-GRSP treatment. Rhizosphere soil of EE-GRSP-treated seedlings showed a much higher distribution of water-stable aggregates in different sizes of 2.00-4.00, 1.00-2.00, 0.50-1.00, and 0.25-0.50 mm and soil greater mean weight diameter, compared to non-EE-GRSP-treated control, regardless of soil water status. These results suggested that exogenous EE-GRSP enhanced the drought tolerance of trifoliate orange seedlings by promoting soil aggregation and hormonal level of roots.

2 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

025866   SHARMA S, GUPTA Y C, DHIMAN S R, SHARMA P (Floriculture and Landscape Architecture Dep, Dr YS Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Himachal Pradesh- 173 230, Email: shwetaflori1990@gmail.com) : Effect of plant spacing on flower and seed production in different strains of gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa). Curr Hort 2018, 6(1), 41-4.

The experiment was conducted to find out the effect of plant spacing on flower and seed production in gomphrena (Gomphrena globosa L.)" at the experimental farm of Department of Floriculture and Landscape Architecture, Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan, during 2013. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (factorial) with four levels of spacings, viz. (20 cm × 15 cm, 20 cm × 20 cm, 20 cm × 25 cm, 20 cm × 30 cm) with three strains i.e. GGW (Gomphrena globosa 'White'), GGM (Gomphrena globosa 'Magenta') and GGP (Gomphrena globosa 'Pink'). Among different plant spacings, closest spacing of 20 cm × 15 cm gave best results for plant height (59.10 cm), earlier arrival of visible flower bud stage (52.00 days), flower yield/m² (1,253.13 g) and seed yield/m² (83.34 g). However, plant spread (44.88 cm), number of flowers/plant (72.11), flower diameter (2.31 cm), duration of flowering (96.55 days), weight of flowers/plant (65.79 g) and seed yield/plant (83.34 g) were maximum with 20 cm × 30 cm spacing. Among strains, GGM gave best results for plant height (54.65 cm), weight of flowers/plant (57.00 g), seed yield/plant (3.57 g), 1000 seed weight (3.49 cm), flower/yield m² (1,253.13 g) and seed/yield m² (75.14 g). Based upon the overall performance of different strains, a closest spacing of 20 cm × 15 cm was recommended under midhill zones of Himachal Pradesh.

2 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

025864   CHOUHAN K S, BAGHEL S S, MISHRA K, SINGH A K, SINGH V (JNKVV, Rewa, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rewahortic@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on yield, quality and economic of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.). Curr Hort 2018, 6(1), 37-40.

An experiment was conducted to find out the effects of integrated nutrient management on yield, quality and economics of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) during 2012 rabi season at Research Farm, JNKVV, College of Agriculture, Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh. There were 10 treatment combinations (V₁I₁. V₁I₂, V₁I₃, V₁I₄, V₁I₅, V₂I₁, V₂I₂, V₂I₃, V₂I₄, V₂I₅) as V₁, Pusa Jwala; V₂, Garima 1₂ and INM facors, I1- recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) or the control (100:50:50 kg NPK/ha), I2- RDF + FYM (10 t/ha), I₃ - RDF + vermicompost (2.5 tonnes/ha), I₄ - RDF + Vesicular arbuscul mycorrhiza (VAM) @ 2 kg/ha, I5 - RDF + Azospirillum in factorial randomized block design with 3 replications. Application of RDF + vermicompost 2.5 tonnes/ha showed significant increase in fruit yield (271.5 g/plant) and fresh fruit yield of 6816 kg/ha. There was lowest fruit yield and fresh fruit yield of chilli (227.8 g/plant and 4218 kg ha, respectively) with recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) or the control (100:50:50 kg NPK/ha). Combined application of RDF + vermicompost 2.5 tonnes/ha showed significant increase in ascorbic acid content (190.8 mg/100 g). There was highest net return (181607 Rs/ha), with benefit : cost ratio of 3.19. However, lowest ascorbic acid content (170.8 mg/100 g) and minimum net returns (95194 Rs/ha) were recorded in the control (100:50:50 kg NPK/ha) while there was minimum B:C ratio (3.19) with I₂.

2 tables, 13 ref

025863   DEVDHARA U, BHATT S T, BHATT D, DODIYA T (Floriculture and Landscape Architecture Dep, NAU, Navsari- 396 450, Email: bhatt.shivam25@yahoo.com) : Effect of different intercropping systems on growth and yield of rose (Rosa indica). Curr Hort 2018, 6(1), 32-6.

The field experiment was conducted to find out the effect of intercropping on annual rose (Rosa indica L.) cultivation at Floriculture Research Farm, ASPEE College of Horticulture and Forestry, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, during 2014-15. The intercrops were African marigold, French marigold and Gaillardia. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with 10 treatments. The vegetative parameters of rose were significant at different stages. The plant height was significant at the end of experiment. While at the end of first intercropping season, at the time of planting of second intercropping season and at the end of experiment plant spread was recorded significant. The highest yield was obtained from sole rose (6.79 tonnes/ha), while least was found in rose + gaillardia 1:2 (4.77 tonnes/ha). The highest rose equivalent yield (11.2 tonnes/ha) was observed from the treatment T₂ (rose + African marigold 1:2). Whereas lowest (6.79 tonnes/ha) was recorded from the treatment T₇ (rose sole). In view of the LER, highest value was recorded from intercropping rose + French marigold 1:2 (1.54). However, lowest value (1.0) was recorded from sole rose. This shows profitability of intercropping over the sole cropping.

6 tables, 14 ref

025862   MOURYA B S, KUSHWAH S S (Gwalior Campus Coll of Horticulture, Mandsaur- 458 002, Email: kushwahhort@gmail.com) : Effect of nitrogen levels on growth, yield, seed quality and economics of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) varieties. Curr Hort 2018, 6(1), 27-31.

An experiment was conducted to find out the effect of nitrogen in growth, yield, seed and economics of French bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) at Bahadari farm, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, during rabi season of 2009-10. Fifteen treatment combinations comprising three varieties, viz. V₁, Swaran Priya; V₂, Arka Komal and V₃, Contender and five nitrogen levels, viz. N₁, 25 kg/ha N; N₂, 50 kg/ha N; N₃, 75 kg/ha N; N₄, 100 kg/ha N and N₅, 125 kg/ha N were tested in factorial randomized block design with three replications. The varieties differed significantly for growth, yield and quality parameters, and yield. Maximum plant height, leaf area index and dry weight of shoots/plant were recorden in Swaran Priya. Earliest 50 per cent flowering was commenced in Contender, followed by Swaran Priya with no remarkable difference. Maximum length of pod, seeds/pod, seed yield/plant, seed yield/ha, shelling percentage, test weight as well as germination percentage were recorded with Swaran Priya. Crude protein content in seed was highest in Arka Komal. Application of nitrogen levels indicated significant effect on growth, yield and seed quality. Maximum plant height, leaf area index and dry weight of shoots/plant were observed with application of N₄ (100 kg/ha N). Earliest 50 per cent flowering was observed under N₁ (25 kg/ha N) application. Maximum pod length (cm), seed yield (g)/plant, seed yield (q)/ha and shelling percentage were recorded with N₄ (100 kg/ha N). Maximum seeds/pod, test weight, crude protein content in seed and germination percentage were determined with application of N₅ (125 kg/ha N). Highest gross return, net return as well as net return per rupees investment were realized with Swaran Priya under N₄ (100 kg/ha N) application.

3 tables, 18 ref

025860   SHAO Y, SRIVASTAVA A K, WU Q, ZHANG D, MU H (Yangtze Univ, Hubei- 434 025, China, Email: zhangdejian0553@126.com) : Analysis of root mycorrhizal colonization and soil GRSP of Osmanthus fragrans. Curr Hort 2018, 6(1), 15-8.

The experiment was conducted to analyze the status of root colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and soil glomalin-related soil protein (GRSP) in plant of Osmanthus fragrans (YinGui) in the field. Three treatments, 1.0 m (S_1.0m), 1.4 m (S_1.4m) and 1.8 m (S_1.8m) away from the trunk of plants of O. fragrans were designed. The results showed that plants were AM plants, as observed the AM structure. The AM colonization varied from 10.2 % to 21.2 % in field and greater mycorrhizal colonization was found in S1.4m. Easily extractable GRSP (EEGRSP) ranged from 0.457 to 0.565 mg/g soil and was higher in S_1.4m than in S_1.0m and S_1.8m. No any significant difference was observed in difficultly extractable GRSP (DE-GRSP) and total GRSP. A greatly significantly positive correlation was found between AM colonization and EE-GRSP.

2 illus, 2 tables, 22 ref

025859   KIZILKAYA B, TAN E, BAHCECI D, ORMANCI H B, OZTEKIN A (Faculty of Marine Science and Technology, Canakkale Onsekiz Mart Univ, Canakkale- 17100, Turkey, Email: bayram342001@yahoo.com) : An investigation on the conversion of functional materials of fish bones as waste products using surface modification methods. Indian J Biotechnol 2018, 17(1), 57-64.

In this study, fish bones as a waste product in fish industry was investigated whether it is suitable to chemical modification. The surface modification on the surfaces of bone particles was made on two step using silanization and schiff base reaction. In brief, the fish bones were cleaned in order to make them ready for chemical proceeding. Chemical modifications were performed on the surface of fish bone particles. Firstly, free amine (-NH2) group was obtained in molecule by silanization of the surfaces of fish bones with 3-aminopropyl-triethoxysilane (S1). Afterwards, amine groups that exist on the surface of bones were reacted with 2-ethyl-2H-pyrazole-3-carbaldehyde (B5) that includes aldehyde groups. The materials gained were analysed with Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), scanning electron microscopy - energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (SEM-EDS) and zeta for their potency. In SEM-EDS analysis, the band of silicon (Si) and nitrogen (N) elements of molecules modified can be clearly seen. Bruanaver Emmet Teller (BET) surface areas of the materials acquired were investigated. BET surface area of the unprocessed apatite is 5.6 m²/g and the surface area of apatite modified with B5 is 1, 8 m²/g. The amount of B5 bonded on the surface of bone is calculated as 164 μmol/g. According to the results, it can be said that waste fish bones are applicable for chemical processing and they can be used in various fields.

5 illus, 6 tables, 24 ref

025858   ANANDAN R, DEENATHAYALAN T, PRAKASH M, SUNIL KUMAR B, NARAYANAN G S (Genetics & Plant Breeding Dep, Annamalai Univ, Tamil Nadu- 608 002, Email: bioanandan@gmail.com) : Assessment of genetic diversity among sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) germplasm as revealed by RAPD and SSR markers. Indian J Biochem Biophys 2018, 55(2), 143-50.

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is an important crop known for its high-quality edible oil. Molecular markers are useful to explore highly diverse genotypes and relationships among populations for crossbreeding programs. In the present investigation, the genetic fidelity of 9 sesame cultivars of Tamil Nadu was assessed by 10 RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) and SSR (Simple Sequence Repeats) markers. A total of 102 DNA bands were obtained with RAPD primers, of which 46 were polymorphic. SSR primers generated 19 bands, of which 8 were polymorphic. The genetic relationships of nine varieties were inferred using the average linkage method. The cultivars were grouped into 2 clusters from RAPD and 3 clusters from SSR markers. Among the two RAPD clusters, cluster I comprised of TMV 4, TMV 5, TMV 6, TMV 7, SVPR 1, VRI 1, VRI 2, and CO 1 and cluster II comprised of TMV 3 cultivar. In SSR clusters, cluster I consisted of CO 1 and VRI 2, cluster II consisted of TMV 5, TMV 6, TMV 7, VRI 1, and SVPR 1 and cluster III consisted of TMV 3 and TMV 4 cultivars. The experimental results showed that mono-geographical separation of cultivars generally did not result in the greater genetic distance. This study demonstrated that RAPD and SSR markers were appropriate for evaluation of low diversified sesame varieties. Understanding of these characteristics of sesame cultivars in Tamil Nadu will provide a theoretical foundation for further development of variation among the sesame cultivars.

2 illus, 5 tables, 30 ref

025856   SINGH D, MISHRA A, SINGH S (Forestry and Ecology Dep, IIRS, Dehradun, Email: dsbaghel01@gmail.com) : Hyperspectral data-based waveform parameters response for forest leaf area index. Clim Chang Environ Sustain 2018, 6(1), 59-71.

 This study is an attempt to evaluate the responses of different waveform parameters towards the Leaf Area Index (LAI) in forests system using canopy spectral simulation model PROSAIL. Spectral measurements from space-based platform (Hyperion EO-1 data) were employed to get some of the waveform parameters for the similar analysis. Groundbased LAI and chlorophyll variability were taken as input in PROSAIL model. LAI range used for PROSAIL-based spectral simulation was 0.076 m² /m²  to 7.00 m² /m² and chlorophyll range was 10 µg cm^–2 to 110 µg cm^–2. PROSAIL modelled spectral reflectance has shown high R²  for the LAI and waveform parameters. Similarly, Hyperion channels have also shown significant correlation (p=0.01) between LAI and waveform parameters, however, less as compared with the modelled spectra. Newly developed slope parameter (Slope_836–858) has showed potential in estimating high LAI values with the explanation of 72 % variability in LAI for Hyperion-based spectral measurement and 99 % variability for PROSAIL modelled spectral measurement. With these results, we may conclude that hyper spectral measurements based waveform parameters may be applied for LAI estimation and support the environmental sustainability due to its non-destructive nature.

9 illus, 2 tables, 80 ref

025855   SAREO H, DEVI H N, DEVI T R, DEVI T S, KARAM N, DEVI L S (Central Agricultural Univ, Imphal, Manipur, Email: heisnamnanita@rediffmail.com) : Genetic diversity among soybean [Glycine max (l.) merrill] genotypes based on agro morphological characters under rainfed condition of Manipur. Clim Chang Environ Sustain 2018, 6(1), 41-5.

 The experiment was carried out to study the extent of genetic diversity among the 75 genotypes of soybean under rainfed condition of Manipur by employing Mahalanobis D² analysis based on 13 morphological characters. The 75 genotypes of soybean were grouped into nine clusters. Maximum numbers of genotypes were included in the Cluster I comprising 28 genotypes followed by Cluster II with 13 genotypes, Cluster IV with 12 genotypes, Clusters III and V with nine genotypes each and clusters VI, VII, VIII and IX with 1 genotype each. The value of intra-cluster distances ranged from 0.00 to 1181. The highest inter-cluster distance (8937) was observed between Clusters III and IX. The character plant height (34.13 %) contributed the highest to the total divergence of the genotypes, followed by pods per plant (29.62 %) and days to 80 % maturity (14.59 %). The highest cluster means values for yield and its component characters were observed in Cluster IX. On the basis of inter-cluster distance, cluster mean values, mean per se performance it is advisable to attempt crosses between genotypes from Clusters III and IX which may lead to obtaining higher heterotic effect and broad spectrum variability in the segregants.

3 tables, 20 ref

025853   SINGH D, SINGH S (Forestry and Ecology Dep, Haryana Space Applications Centre, Hisar, Email: dsbaghel01@gmail.com) : Geospatial modeling of canopy chlorophyll content using high spectral resolution satellite data in Himalayan forests. Clim Chang Environ Sustain 2018, 6(1), 20-34.

 Chlorophyll is an important pigment in plants, and considered as an essential element to be estimated for understanding florescence, assessing carbon sequestration potential, primary productivity, etc. at different levels in biological hierarchy. Several biophysical and climate models require chlorophyll as an important input parameter to simulate global carbon and primary productivity. Present study is an attempt to model canopy chlorophyll content (CCC) in Himalayan forests using (1) ground survey (2) Hyperion EO-1 Hyper spectral data and (3) PROSAIL Radiative Transfer model across different forest systems. Sampled chlorophyll content index (CCI) values were converted to leaf level chlorophyll content using existing model. Spectral regions from 515 nm to 850 nm were used for spectral modeling and upscaling. Waveform analysis approach which includes Band Depth (BD), Continuum Slope (CS), Band Maximum (B_max), Band Centre (BC) and band area (BA) was followed for estimating total canopy chlorophyll content (CCC). The highest canopy chlorophyll (2.63 g/m² ) was found in temperate broadleaved forests of Oak (Quercus leucotrichophora) and with mean 0.82 g/m² . Bauhinia species dominates sub-tropical forest and showed higher canopy chlorophyll content (mean=0.70 g/m² ) as compared with the Sal dominated moist tropical forest (mean=0.42 g/m2 ). BD and BA were found to be highly correlated and may be used as surrogate for each other. BD was highly correlated with CCC (R² =0.92). Modelled spectra have shown encouraging results only for low ranges of CCC, however, at higher ranges of CCC the correlation became poor.

9 illus, 5 tables, 56 ref

025946   ZHIMO V Y, SAHA J, SINGH B, CHAKRABORTY I (Plant Pathology Dep, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Nadia- 741 252, Email: vyzhimo@gmail.com) : Role of antagonistic yeast Candida tropicalis YZ27 on postharvest life and quality of litchi cv. Bombai. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1100-5.

The efficacy of the antagonistic yeast (Candida tropicalis YZ27) as a biological control agent against postharvest natural decay and quality retention of litchi (cv. Bombai) was studied. Application of the yeast antagonist led to rapid colonization on the surface of the fruit and significantly reduced the natural decay incidence and severity following storage at ambient condition (28 $\pm$ 2$°$C, 78 $\pm$ 1 % RH) for six days compared to control fruit. Application of C. tropicalis YZ27 prevented weight loss of fresh fruit (8.2 %), pericarp browning (8 %) and reduction of anthocyanin pigments (11 %) of the pericarp over control (12.4 %, 96.0 % and 38.5 % respectively in untreated fruit). Quality attributes like total soluble solids, titratable acidity and ascorbic acid content of litchi fruit were 17.18 %, 0.53 % and 7.78 mg/100 g in C. tropicalis YZ27 applied fruits compared to 11.95 %, 0.30 % and 6.16 mg/100 g respectively. The results indicate that C. tropicalis YZ27 has great potential for development of commercial biocontrol formulations as an alternative of SO₂ fumigation to control postharvest decay and quality retention of litchi fruit.

8 illus, 1 table, 41 ref

025945   SHYLARAJ K S, NADH S G, CHANDRAN S K (Kerala Agricultural Univ, Kochi- 682 019, Email: shylarajks@gmail.com) : Comparative analysis of grain quality and nutraceutical properties of selected rice varieties from Kerala. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 1088-94.

Kerala, the land of rich biodiversity, is a treasure of land races of many crops. The speciality rice varieties of Kerala include Pokkali (organic rice), Jeerakasala and Gandhakasala (scented rice varieties), Black Njavara and Golden Njavara (medicinal rice varieties). A study on the nutraceutical properties of these speciality rice varieties was made to understand their health benefits. Oil content in the rice bran and antioxidants like oryzanol, tocopherol and tocotrienol in the rice bran oil (RBO) of these rice varieties were estimated and compared apart from the quality and nutritional analysis of both rice and bran. The study revealed that the bran is rich in RBO and antioxidants like oryzanol, tocopherol and tocotrienol which may contribute to its high therapeutic value. The study recommends minimum polishing of these rice varieties during milling for consumption purpose. As the bran is rich in fibre and micronutrients like Fe, Cu, B and S, it should be utilized for the preparation of valueadded products like biscuits, baby foods, breads, etc. for healthy human consumption. The study envisages an urgent need for the utilization of the huge quantity of rice bran oil and as component of other food products.

1 illus, 6 tables, 35 ref

025944   KATHIRESAN K (Annamalai Univ, Parangipettai- 608 502, Email: kathiresan57@gmail.com) : Mangrove forests of India. Curr Sci 2018, 114(5), 976-81.

Mangrove forests of India are globally unique with the highest record of biodiversity, gifted with the mangrove genetic paradise at Bhitarkanika, and the globally threatened wildlife species in the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans of India and Bangladesh is the only largest mangrove forest in the world colonized by the Royal Bengal Tigers. Mangroves are dense and floristically diverse along the east coast of India and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. They are largely distributed in the high energy tidal coast of two extreme conditions: (i) humid and wet in Sundarbans with rich biodiversity, and (ii) arid and dry in Gujarat with low biodiversity. Despite increasing pressures, the mangrove cover in India increases annually at the rate of 1.9 %, as against the global mangrove cover that disappears at 0.66 %. However, India has a large track of sparse mangrove stand. This article discusses the present status of mangrove forests, conservation and management strategies being followed successfully in India, and recommends the future directions for mangrove restoration, improvisation of sparse stands, participatory management, and quality publications on mangrove research.

3 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

025943   MAHAPATRA A, NATAK A, BHOL R (OUAT, Bhubaneswar- 751 003, Email: anita.mahapatra100@gmail.com) : Influence of integrated nutrient management on yield, uptake, soil fertility status and economics of baby corn (Zea mays L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 535-9.

A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive kharif seasons of 2012 and 2013, to study the effect of integrated nutrient management on baby corn. Application of 75 % RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + mixed bio-fertilizers recorded the highest yield of baby corn (1.50 t/ha) along with maximum N, P, K uptake. However, the post harvest soil fertility status was improved with 75 % RDF + FYM @ 5 t/ha + mixed bio-fertilizers. Application of 40 kg S/ha + 5 kg Zn/ha + 2.5 kg B/ha has resulted in significant increase in yield of baby corn (1.54 t/ha), N, P, K uptake and improved soil fertility status. The highest net return (Rs 77921/ha) and B : C ratio of 3.07 were registered in 75 % RDF + vermicompost @ 2.5 t/ha + mixed biofertilizers. Application of 40 kg S/ha + 5 kg Zn/ha + 2.5 kg B/ha resulted in highest net return (Rs 81217/ha) with B : C ratio of 3.13.

1 table, 9 ref

025942   BELLAD S B, HIREMATH U (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka, Email: belladstech@gmail.com) : Effect of fruit load and growth regulators on seed yield and quality in watermelon hybrid seed production. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 520-30.

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of fruit load and growth regulators on seed yield and quality fruit load and growth regulators on seed yield and quality of hybrid watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb) Arka Jyothi. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) with two factorial concept (four fruit load levels as main factor viz. L₁ : Two fruits retained per vine, L₂ : Three fruits retained per vine, L₃ : Four fruits retained per vine, L₄ : All fruits retained per vine and five growth regulators as sub factor viz. G₁ : No spray (water spray), G₂ : GA₃ @ 25 ppm, G₃ : Ethrel @ 250 ppm, G₄ : TIBA @ 500 ppm, G₅ : CCC @ 500 ppm) in three replications. The results indicated that better seed quality could be obtained by spraying ethrel @ 250 ppm and retention of two fruits per vine in hybrid watermelon seed production. From these results, it can be stated that, consistently higher seed yield could be obtained by spraying ethrel @ 250 ppm at three fruit load per vine in watermelon hybrid seed production.

4 illus, 7 tables, 9 ref

025941   HIREMATH U, VASUDEVAN S N, BHANUPRAKASH K (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka, Email: umesh3980@gmail.com) : Investigations on seed viability and vigor during seed ageing in onion (Allium cepa L.) cv Bellary red. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 514-9.

Natural ageing and accelerated ageing studies were conducted in onion cv Bellary red seed to investigate the vigor and viability changes during seed ageing. The seeds were stored up to 9 months under ambient conditions to carry out studies on ageing induced changes at evenly 3 months interval. Accelerated ageing was performed as per ISTA procedure by exposing the fresh seeds to a high temperature 45 ^oC and 75 % RH for a period of 9 days. Aged seeds were collected at 3 days interval for seed quality studies. The results revealed that onion seeds lost their vigor and viability progressively with ageing treatment. Germination percentage reduced up to 69 % and 55 %, field emergence percentage up to 61 % and 44 % in natural ageing and accelerated ageing respectively. Number of abnormal seedlings, dead seeds and mean germination time (days) increased significantly with the ageing period. The loss of viability in seeds after ageing appeared related to increased membrane destruction (loss of membrane integrity) as evident from higher per cent membrane injury index. This membrane integrity loss may be responsible for the decreased vigor and ultimately viability in onion seeds.

2 illus, 2 tables, 15 ref

025940   CHATTOPADHYAY D N, CHAKRABORTY A, RAY P K, MANDAL R N, SURESH V R, BANIK S K (ICAR-Central Institute of Freshwater Aquaculture, Kalyani-741 235, Email: debcifa@yahoo.com) : First ever weaning and feeding behavior of Hilsa shad, Tenualosa ilisha (Hamilton,1822) fry under captive culture in freshwater pond. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 508-13.

Tenualosa ilisha, a commercially important anadromous fish has declined drastically in nature. This study was aimed to culture the species and develop a weaning method for its domestication. The fry (29.5 ± 0.26 mm/0.28 ± 0.01 g) were reared at 30000 nos. ha^-1 in 0.1 ha freshwater pond where two feeding spots (S₁ and S₂) were selected at 3 m apart. Mixed zooplankton was supplied daily once at S₁ up to 36 days. The feed was applied daily at S₁ (8-10 days and 26-120 days) and S₂ (11-25 days). The fish voluntarily accepted plankton, but did not accept feed till 28 days. Initially they showed avoidance reaction towards feed though the quantity of plankton supply was reduced to 60 % during 14-16 days. Further gradual reduction of plankton supply to 40 %, 20 % and 10 % during 17- 25 days, fish started moving to S₂ from small numbers to the entire population, indicating their habituation and social learning behavior towards feed. The continuation of 10 % plankton supply resulted in involuntary ingestion of suspended feed during 29-35 days. The fish ingested feed voluntarily from 36^th day and continued till 120 days. The present information on the feeding behavior and weaning may be useful for its domestication.

3 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

025939   BELLAD S B, HIREMATH U (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka, Email: belladstech@gmail.com) : Effect of sowing date, spacing and fertilizer levels on crop growth and seed yield of hybrid watermelon. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 498-507.

An experiment was conducted to study the effect of sowing dates, spacing and fertilizer levels on crop growth and seed yield of hybrid watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb) Arka Jyothi. The experiment was laid out in split plot design consisting of 24 treatment combinations involving four levels of sowing dates, two levels of spacing and three levels of fertilizer doses as follows. Sowing dates (D)- D₁ : November sowing, D₂ : December sowing, D₃ : January sowing, D₄ : February sowing, Spacing levels (S)- S₁ : 2.5 m × 1.0 m, S₂ : 3.0 m × 1.0 m, Fertilizer levels (F)- F₁ : 100:90:100 kg NPK per ha (RDF), F₂ : 125:110:125 kg NPK per ha, F₃ : 150:135:150 kg NPK per ha in three replications. The results revealed that seeds sown during January month recorded significantly higher fruit weight (6.68 kg), filled seed (86.96 %), seed weight per fruit (4.82 g) and seed yield per ha (73.04 kg) over 15^th November sowing. Likewise, 3.00 m × 1.00 m spacing and fertilizer dose of 150:135:150 kg NPK per ha recorded significantly higher seed weight per fruit (4.89 g), seed yield per vine (22.69 g) as compared to 100:90:100 NPK kg per ha and 2.50 m × 1.00 m spacing respectively. The findings of the study indicated that for production of quality hybrid seeds of watermelon, parental seeds could be sown during January with NPK levels of 150:135:150 kg ha^{– 1} at 3.00 m × 1.00 m spacing.

10 illus, 14 ref

025938   BISWAL G, DASH S N, BEHERA S (Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar- 751 003, Email: gayatribiswal1965@gmail.com) : Studies on black scurf and scab diseases of potato under low water availability condition in coastal plains of Odisha. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 495-7.

Potato crop has a high water requirement which is positively correlated with yield. The crop is irrigated at seven to ten days interval in the coastal zone of Odisha depending on the soil condition. In view of water constraints, the present experiment was designed taking two parameters (i) the irrigation treatments which were based on Cumulative Pan Evaporation (I) (ii) mulching (M). Irrigation schedules were practised as follows: I₁ = irrigation at 30 mm CPE, I₂ = irrigation at 35 mm CPE, I₃ = irrigation at 40 mm CPE, I₄ = irrigation at 45 mm CPE, I₅ = irrigation at 50 mm CPE and I₆ = irrigation at stolon formation, tuber initiation and tuber development stages of the varieties used. The mulching (M) schedules were M₁ : No mulch and M₂ : Mulching with paddy straw @ 5 t ha ^–1. The trial was conducted in the year 2008-09 and 2009-10 following RBD design. The result revealed that black scurf was not recorded in irrigation with critical growth stage without mulch (I₆M₁ ) and irrigation with critical growth stage with mulch (I₆M₂ ). Minimum scab incidence was recorded in irrigation at 35 m CPE with mulch (I₂M₂ ) followed by irrigation at 40 mm CPE with mulch (I₃M₂ ). Maximum yield (both marketable and non-marketable tubers) 31.92 t/ha was obtained in 35 mm CPE in mulching condition followed by the irrigation in 35 mm CPE in no mulching condition (30.30 t/ ha).

2 tables, 7 ref

025937   SINGH R, BANERJEE A, SHARMA S K, CHANDRA A, BARUAH S, KHATOON A, SEN A, SHUKLA K K (ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Basar- 791 101, Email: singhraghuver@gmail.com) : Occurrence, molecular characterization, physiological study and yield loss assessment of broad-leaved mustard (Brassica juncea var rugosa) infected with turnip mosaic virus in Arunachal Pradesh. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 489-94.

Turnip mosaic virus (TuMV), member of the genus Potyvirus, is the most important virus of commercially grown cole crops in many Asian countries.Cole crops are an important part of daily diet in India. The study revealed that the maximum mean disease incidence was in serrated leaf type (63.67 %). The maximum yield loss was recorded in green leaf type (19.46 %). The occurrence of TuMV in broad-leaved mustard was confirmed by symptomatology, transmission electron microscopy (flexuous filamentous particles of 800 × 12 nm), DAS-ELISA, RT-PCR and partial characterization of cytoplasmic inclusion (CI) protein and coat protein (CP) domains. Phylogenetic analysis of the partial CP sequences of the new TuMV isolate (AR-BrLM;KP876503) revealed their closest relationship with the members of the World-B genogroup of TuMV. Significant physiological changes were observed in diseased leaves in terms of chlorophyll, total sugar, reducing sugar, total phenol and total proteins.

1 illus, 2 tables, 11 ref

025936   BELLAD S B, HIREMATH U (Seed Science and Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Raichur, Karnataka, Email: belladstech@gmail.com) : Effect of pollen storage and time of pollination on seed yield and quality of hybrid watermelon Arka Jyothi. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 479-88.

An investigation to study the effect of pollen storage and time of pollination on seed yield and quality of hybrid watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thunb) Arka Jyothi was undertaken. The results revealed that pollen storage period exhibited marked influence on seed weight per fruit, percentage of filled seeds, seed germination and vigor index irrespective of pollination time. The fresh pollen dusted on female parent recorded significantly highest seed weight, filled seed, seed germination and vigor index (4.87 g, 87.21 %, 85.83 % and 19.68), respectively followed by one day stored pollens as against two days stored pollen (4.53 g, 79.22 %, 72.83 % and 1706), respectively. Whereas, significant variations were observed due to crossing time for various seed yield and quality components irrespective of pollen storage. The crossing of female buds at 6.00 to 7.00 am period recorded significantly and consistently highest seed weight (4.95 g), filled seed (84.26 %), seed germination (82.49 %) and vigor index (1891) and it was followed by 7:00 to 8:00 am crossing time. On the other hand, all these parameters were significantly lowest in 8.00 to 9.00 am crossing time irrespective of pollen storage period.

13 tables, 8 ref

025935   NEGI S, SINGH V (Environmental Science Dep, G. B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, Email: surindranegi05@gmail.com) : Changes in physical and chemical properties of decaying deadwood in broad-leaf and conifer forests in Central Himalayas, India. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 473-8.

Ecological significance of deadwood in forest ecosystems is poorly understood. In the present investigation an attempt has been made to evaluate the physical and chemical changes as well as estimate qualitative and quantitative characteristics of deadwood based on a study of broad-leaf and conifer in the subtropical region of Tarai in the district of Udham Singh Nagar and a temperate mountainous region in the district of Nainital in the Central Himalayas, India. The broad-leaf forest showed the higher amount of deadwood than that of the conifer forest. Out of the two taxa the angiosperms showed higher wood density, nitrogen, phosphorus and αcellulose concentration than gymnosperms. However, the gymnosperm deadwoods showed higher amounts of moisture content, carbon, lignin and C-N ratio with increased decay phase, i.e. from decay phase 1 (least decayed) to decay phase 4 (highly decayed). The showed that due to the different wood characteristics of the two taxa and different forest type there was a great variation in the amount of deadwood nutrients in different decay phases.

3 tables, 22 ref

025934   GULED H, CHIKKALINGAIAH, ANUSHA H G (Sericulture Dep, UAS, Bangalore 65, Email: guledhanamant89@gmail.com) : Effect of 17 elite mulberry (Morus spp.) genotypes on rearing performance of silkworm and its cocoon quality. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 469-72.

Mulberry silkworm (Bombyx mori L.) responds to nutritional parameters, which are provided through mulberry varieties. The nutritional status and quality of the leaf consumption forms the basis for selection of suitable mulberry germplasm. The Department of Sericulture,University of Agricultural Sciences, Gandhi Krishi Vignana Kendra, Bangalore is maintaining total of 100 genotypes, out of these, we are selecting 17 genotypes for the present study. All the genotypes noticed significant difference in all the rearing parameters. Among these, MR-2 recorded minimum total larval duration (27.49 days), maximum mature larval weight (29.62 g/10 larvae), single cocoon weight (1.781 g), shell weight (0.347 g), shell ratio (19.48 %), silk productivity (3.319 cg/day) and ERR (91.65 %). The next best one were MI-79, Surat local and MI-0142. But none of the genotypes recorded maximum rearing parameters than the comparison check variety V-1. Hence, among all the selected genotypes, MR-2, MI-79, Surat local and MI-0142 genotypes out gone as superior with respect to rearing performance. On other hand silk parameters viz, single filament length (812.39 m), filament weight (0.265 g) and denier (2.936) shows maximum in MR-2 followed by MI-79 and MI-0142. But, here also none of the genotype shows maximum silk parameters than the check variety V-1. It means that, MR-2, MI-79 and MI-0142 are superior with respect to silk parameters by comparing other genotypes except V-1.

1 illus, 3 tables, 8 ref

025933   PRADEEP P, MALLESHAPPA C, MANJUNATHA B, NIRANJANA KUMARA B, HARISH D (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural and Horticultural Sciences Univ, Shivamogga, Email: manjugpb@gmail.com) : Genetic variability, path analysis, character association for yield and its attributing traits in F₂ population of cross BPT-5204 ? IET-21214 in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 437-42.

The present investigation in rice (Oryza sativa L.) was undertaken during kharif, 2015 to study variability parameters, character association and path analysis and identification of transgressive segregants in respect of grain yield and its component traits in F₂ population of BPT5204 × IET21214 crosses. The distribution pattern of F₂ populations indicated large number of genes with dominance based complementary interaction in the inheritance of total tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant, number of grains per panicle, grain yield per plant and L:B ratio in both crosses but duplicate type of interaction was noticed for days to 50 % flowering, panicle length, number of spikelets per panicle, spikelets fertility, test weight, grain length and grain breadth, panicle length and harvest index in BPT5204 × IET21214. GCV and PCV values were relatively higher with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance for total tillers per plant, productive tillers per plant and grains per panicle and grain yield per plant in both the crosses indicating additive gene action in their genetic control. Grain yield per plant was exhibited significant positive correlation with plant height, total tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant, panicle length, number of spikelets per panicle, number of grains per plant and spikelets. Path analysis in F₂ generation of indicated the positive direct effect of total tillers per plant, number of panicles per plant, grains per panicle and panicle length and harvest index on grain yield.

3 tables, 11 ref

025932   KULKARNI P, MUNISWAMY S, LOKESHA R, GIRISH G, SUMA T C, MAHALING D M (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agriculture Coll, Raichur- 584 101, Email: muniswamygpb@gmail.com) : Genotypic response to Fusarium wilt and sterility mosaic disease and morphological characterization of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) genotypes. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 430-6.

Primary constraints in crop production are a number of biotic and abiotic factors. Fusarium wilt and SMD are one of the major biotic constraints affecting the yield. Screening of the genotypes against these diseases provides a clear picture on response and performance of genotypes which helps in planning further breeding programs. Hence, 40 pigeonpea genotypes were screened and the results revealed that the genotype ICP-7035 found asymptomatic for SMD and four genotypes namely GRG-2013, ICPL15015, ICPH-3762 and GRG-811 were found resistant to both the diseases. In another study a total of 51 genotypes (Includes above 40 genotypes) were used for morphological characterization. It successfully differentiated GC-11-39 and ICPL-87 from rest of the genotypes as they had determinate growth habit and early flowering. Simillarly, BAHAR can be distinguished because of its orange seed color and KARI TOGARI for its dark purple seed color. ICP-7035 can be distinguished for its globular seed shape. Hence, they serve as morphological markers in varietal identification, thus helps in maintaining varietal purity.

1 illus, 2 tables, 19 ref

025931   SINGH B, PANDEY R K (Animal Husbandry and Dairying Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, Email: basdev.sing103@gmail.com) : Cattle and buffalo management practices in Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 425-9.

A study was carried out to find out dairy animals management practices adopted by the rural dairy herds in Etawah district of Uttar Pradesh. The farm owners are mostly in the age group of 25 to 50 years and their mean in 38 years, for the medium category of dairy herds it was 30 to 50 years and their mean is 41 years and for the large category of dairy herds the range of age group was 28 to 58 years and their mean was 42 years. Education is concerned most of thedairy herds in different categories of dairy herds were literate and the highest education qualification was High School. Mostly dairy herds were male and married, but some dairy farmer has been seen unmarried. Family size of most of the dairy herds was in the range of 10,6,12 as the maximum and for the minimum 4 member in the family. The total annual income of the dairy herds were in the range of an average 14500, 20000, and 69500 Rs, small, medium and large dairy farmers’ categories contain 20,17,10 in cows, 22,25,12 in buffaloes and 23,33 and 39 respectively numbers of dairy herds both type (cows and buffalo). On total 47 dairy herds were having only cows, 59 dairy herds were having buffalo and 94 farmers had both cow and buffalo. The small, medium and large dairy herds categories contains 40, 45 and 45 in loose type, 8, 10 and 0 in barn type, while 15, 10 and 15 respectively, numbers of dairy herds in both types, and tying system single row 65, 65 and 50, double row (face to face) system 0, 0 and 0, double row (tail to tail) system 0, 10 and 10 respectively, number of dairy herds. Likewise, in calving system suckling type 65, 66 and 45, in weaning type 0, 0 and 0, in both 0, 9 and 15, respectively, numbers of dairy farmers. Also, in type in pucca 25, 25 and 25, in kaccha 20, 20 and 25, in both types 15, 30 and 20 respectively, numbers of dairy farmers. All categories of dairy herds the concentrate, green and dry feed is given two times in a day. The small, medium and large dairy herds categories contains 50, 35 and 40 in natural breeding system, in AI type 0, 16 and 0, and in both type of breeding system were 15, 24 and 25 respectively. In daily wages small, medium and large dairy herds categories having 27, 32 and 20 in male, 0,0 and 9 in female; 38, 43 and 40 numbers of dairy herds in both the small, medium and large dairy herds categories having 65, 75 and 60 respectively, number of dairy herds in hand milking, two times milking per day is done in all dairy herds categories, 0 numbers of dairy herds adopt machine milking in all dairy herds categories. The veterinary facilities on the small, medium and large dairy herds contains 0, 15, and 5 in on dairy herds type, 65, 40 and 45 in off dairy herds type, and 0, 20 and 10. All number of farmers having source of water of its own and private which were available on some dairy herds and other side of dairy farms.

9 tables, 9 ref

025930   KAR R K, UPADHYAYA K, PANDA P C (Forestry Dep, Mizoram Univ, Tanhril- 796 004, Email: ranjankumarouat@gmail.com) : Effect of soil amendments and bio-inoculants on growth performance of Flemingia semialata under field conditions. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 418-24.

A field experiment was laid with Flemingia semialata Roxb. consisting of 14 treatments namely, T₁ =Control, T₂ =FYM, T₃ =FYM + Rhizobium, T₄ =FYM + N₁ P₁K₁ + Rhizobium, T₅ =FYM + N₂ P₂K₂ + Rhizobium, T₆ =FYM + N₃ P₃K₃ + Rhizobium, T₇ =FYM + Mycorrhizae, T₈ =FYM + N₁ P₁K₁ + Mycorrhizae, T₉ = FYM + N₂ P₂K₂ + Mycorrhizao, T₁₀= FYM + N₃ P₃K₃ + Mycorrhizae, T₁₁= FYM + Mycorrhizae + Rhizobium, T₁₂=FYM + N₁ P₁K₁ + Rhizobium + Mycorrhizae, T₁₃=FYM + N₂ P₂K₂ + Rhizobium + Mycorrhizae and T₁₄= FYM + N₃ P₃K₃ + Rhizobium + Mycorrhizae in RBD having 3 replications to study their effect on plant growth performance under field conditions. T₁₄ recorded maximum number of branches (31), petiole length (9.1 cm), branch diameter (2.36 cm) and leaf width (5.3 cm), T₁₃ recorded maximum plant height (2.38 m), shoot spread (2.21 m), T₁₂ recorded highest branch length (85.3 m), number of leaves (158), collar diameter (3.68 cm) and T₃ maximum angle of branch emergence (82 ^o ). It infers that both bioinoculants and NPK application on Flemingia affects more the vertical growth that the horizontal growth.

2 tables, 20 ref

025929   SAMEERKUMAR D, JAYADEVA H M, NAGARAJU, SHESHADRI T, SANNAGAOUDAR S M (Agronomy Dep, GKVK, Karnataka, Email: sameerd623@gmail.com) : Horizontal and vertical distribution of nutrients and yield of groundnut as influenced by micro sprinkler fertigation. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 387-92.

Micro sprinkler fertigation provides an efficient method of fertilizer delivery and minimizes the adverse environmental impact on crop production. The availability of nutrients at the root zone of the crops at regular intervals influences the uptake and yield of the crop. A field experiment was conducted to study the influence of micro sprinkler fertigation of N, P and K fertilizers (normal fertilizers and water soluble fertilizers) on yield and soil nutrient dynamics of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) during kharif, 2014. The experiment was laid out with nine treatments which were replicated thrice in a randomized block design. The study revealed that mobility of nutrients was well pronounced under micro sprinkler fertigation system. In all the micro sprinkler fertigation treatments, the concentrations of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium decreased horizontally from the base of micro sprinkler till the periphery of wetting zone. The available soil nitrogen found higher in subsoil (20 cm soil depth) as compared to surface soil (10 cm soil depth). The similar trend was noticed in soil potassium dynamics. With respect to phosphorus, the soil P content was higher in the surface soil (10 cm soil depth) than in the subsoil (20 cm soil depth). Significantly higher yield was noticed in micro sprinkler fertigation of WSF at 100 % RDF over all other treatments but it was found to be on par with micro sprinkler fertigation of WSF at 75 % RDF.

4 tables, 11 ref

025928   SHARMA R, BAGHEL R P S, SHARMA S (Animal Nutrition Dep, Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry Coll, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rahul.vet11@gmail.com) : Effect of replacing maize with graded level of paddy on the performance of broilers. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 377-80.

This experiment was planned to evaluate the use of graded levels paddy instead of maize on the performance of broiler production. In broilers, 108 day old chicks were randomly distributed into 06 dietary treatments where treatment one (T₁) acted as control. The control diet contained 2800 Kcal ME/ kg and 22 % CP and remaining 05 treatments were formulated using different levels of paddy replacing maize. Thus, dietary treatments T₂, T₃, T₄, T₅ and T₆ were formulated using 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 % paddy, respectively, replacing maize in the diet. Results indicated that 60 % paddy instead of maize produced significantly (p< 0.05) higher weight gain in broilers. Feed intake was significantly higher in broilers allotted T₄ diet. The FER was highest in broilers assigned T₂ diet. The PI was maximum and significantly higher in broilers allotted T₄ diet.

2 tables, 7 ref

025927   PANDEY D, SINGH N P (Horticulture Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana- 141 004, Email: divyapandey912@gmail.com) : Influence of foliar application of KNO₃ on fruit pericarp color development and yield of litchi cv Dehradun. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 370-6.

The present investigation was carried on thirty five years old uniformly grown Dehradun litchi plants established at MS Randhawa FRS, Gangian (Hoshiarpur), Punjab, during the year 2015-16. They were sprayed with KNO₃ @ 1.0, 1.5 and 2 % at three different stages i.e. single spray 10 days after fruit set (DAFS) ; double spray after 10 and 20 DAFS and triple spray after 10, 20 and 30 DAFS and the control (water spray). The plants treated with K as foliar feeding significantly improved fruit size, aril/stone ratio, fruit pericarp color and marketable fruit yield over the control. Increment in fruit yield to the tune of 13.9 % was recorded in trees treated with double spray of KNO₃ 1 % over the control. Fruit size and fruit retention were also improved with different doses of K as foliar feeding. Fruit color coordinates estimated in terms of ‘L’ value was recorded the highest with one spray of KNO₃ 1.5 % and ‘a’ value also increased with the increase in dose of KNO₃ from 1 to 2 % as well as single spray of KNO₃ 1.5 %, however, ‘b’ color value was noted maximum with three sprays of KNO₃ 1 %. Fruit pericarp color was also estimated in terms of hue angle and chroma as well as pericarp anthocyanin content was also calculated. From the present studies, it is concluded that single foliar spray of KNO₃ 1 % after 10 DAFS considerably improved fruit size, pericarp color, pulp/stone ratio, fruit retention and thereby fruit yield in litchi cv Dehradun.

9 illus, 10 ref

025926   SINGH B, CHAUHAN P S, PANDEY S B S (Forest Biology and Tree Improvement Dep, Agriculture Univ, Jhalawar- 326 001, Email: b.singh96801@gmail.com) : Phytodiversity characterization of dry deciduous forest of Baran forest division. Environ Ecol 2018, 36(2), 361-9.

The present study was carried out for vegetation diversity of dry deciduous forest in seven micro-sites. Phytodiversity revealed 39 tree species, 16 shrub species and 36 herbaceous species. Highest tree density and basal area were found in Site-VI, 1040 ind/ha and Site-I, 8.44 m²/ha respectively, whereas in shrubs Site-I, 208 ind/ha and Site-VII, 0.0470 m²/ha represented as a maximum density and basal area. In case of herbaceous highest density and basal area were recorded in Site-VII, 3776 ind/ha and Site-I, 152.42 cm² /ha. Similarity index ranged for tree, shrub and herbaceous species from 10.98 to 69.62, 12.80 to 66.55 and 16.03 to 64.44. Species diversity for tree, shrub and herbaceous ranged from 1.31 to 3.08, 1.28 to 1.71 and 1.32 to 2.72. Simpson’s dominance ranged from 0.05 to 0.40, 0.20 to 0.31 and 0.07 to 0.35 for tree, shrub and herbaceous species. Three types of dominance diversity curves were also found in this present study in various vegetation stratums.

4 illus, 8 tables, 15 ref

025924   CHHABRA V, ABDUL HARIS A, PRAKASH V, UPADHYAY H (Agronmy Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 401, Email: vandna.21027@lpu.co.in) : Cropping systems and their effectiveness in adaptation and mitigation of climate change. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1175-83.

Increasing trend in concentration of atmospheric green house gases (GHGs) and consequent global warming is alarming, and requires adaptation and mitigation options. Climate-resilient and low-emission future can be built upon a long-term global goal for emission reductions. Reducing CO₂ concentration in the atmosphere by enhancing the rates of removal of the atmospheric CO₂ through carbon sequestration is considered as one of the best climate change mitigation strategy. Plants can sequester carbon through assimilation of carbohydrates in photosynthesis which will be stored in the biomass and will add to different pools of carbon subsequently. Farmers’ adaptation to climate change-through changes in farming practices, cropping patterns, and use of new technologies will help to mitigate the adverse impact. The cropping systems and the management practices that could provide C input higher than the above critical level are likely to sustain the SOC level and maintain good soil health in the subtropical regions of the Indian subcontinent. 20 to 25 % of soil organic carbon lost within first few decades of cultivation, worldwide estimate of loss is 41 to 55 Gt carbons. Framers being the key stakeholders need to be educated and encouraged for adopting low emission climate resilient agriculture.

79 ref

025923   CHANDEL N, KURREY V K, MINZ R R, THAKUR O (Horticulture Dep, C.G.K.V, Raipur - 492 012, Email: nisha.chandel4@gmail.com) : Guava nectar as a refreshing beverage an overall review. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1163-9.

An attempt was made to update on review available literature on guava nectar prepared by cooled method is well organoleptic acceptability. With more grid cell due to sedimentation occurs during storage and nectar can be prepared with the combination of 20 per cent fruit pulp and 18º Brix TSS and 0.3 per cent acidity is best for nectar preparation and its storage. This combination may be varies according to fruits and their blending, where as the above combination showed less physicochemical changes and also showed higher organoleptic score. guava nectar can be stored better at ambient temperature more than six months. The present investigation entitled . In the experiment alternative sweetener like Equal, Splenda and Stevia were used for the preparation of low calorie guava nectar beverages. Among various recipe tried in this investigation, the nectar prepared from the treatment T₃ (50 % Equal + 50 % Sugar) recorded highest organoleptic score with respect to colour and appearances aroma, taste and overall acceptability followed by T₇ (50 % Stevia + 50 % Sugar). Ascorbic acid and nonreducing sugar was recorded maximum under the treatment T₃ (50 % Equal + 50 % Sugar). Acidity, reducing sugar and total sugar was recorded maximum, T₉ (100 % Splenda).

39 ref

025922   PATIL G, NAUGRAIYA M N (Forestry Dep, Guru Ghasidas Vishwavidyalaya, Bilaspur - 495 009) : Phenological impression of Acacia mangium in Chhattisgarh, India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1151-4.

Phenological study of Acacia mangium has done at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur (CG). Two different sites Viz; (i) Experimental field of department of Forestry at Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur (C.G.) and (ii) Energy Park VIP road Raipur having different soil management practice was selected for study of tree phenology and seeds site –I has black cotton soil (vertisols) and while site – II has light soil (inceptisols). A. mangium is evergreen tree species so foliage initiation, maturity and leaf fall was not found significant differences. Foliage initiation was maximum during winter season and less in the summer at both the sites. Foliage gets matured after two weeks from their initiation. Leaf fall observed in September and February at Experimental field of Forestry IGKV and October and March at Energy park plantation. The flowers formation started from the end of August and reached peak during 2^nd to 3^rd week of September afterward then flowering decline and eventually stopped at the second week of October at the Experimental field, IGKV, Raipur. In case of site of Energy Park plantation the flowering started from the last week of September and peak during the 3_^rd and 4^th week of October then declined and stopped during 2^nd week of November.

1 table, 8 ref

025921   SINGH H, SINGH R P, YADAV R R, BARELIA P K, BHARTI A K, KUMAR P (Horticulture Dep, Bundelkhand Univ, Jhansi) : Influence of integrated nutrient management on growth, yield and quality of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench). Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1144-6.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2010 to study the effect of INM on growth, yield and quality of okra var. Prabhani Kranti. Application of 10 t FYM, 120 kg each of N and P₂O₅ /ha were found significantly superior in enhancing growth, yield and quality of okra over their respective preceding levels. Addition of 10 t FYM/ha resulted in maximum green pod yield (78.20 q/ha), protein content (16.50 %), Protein yield (340.5 kg/ha), N-uptake 74.50 kg/ha and Puptake 6.80 kg/ha. The highest level of N and P₂O₅ (120 kg/ha) also augmented the above parameters up to the same extent. Thus, in order to secure maximum yield 10 t FYM with 120 kg/ha each of N and P₂O₅ is essential under the existing agroclimatic conditions.

1 table, 11 ref

025920   KUMAR S, SHARMA R C (Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Harda- 461 331, Email: sarveshkvkharda@gmail.com) : Exploring outlook of B.Sc. (Ag.) students towards Rural Agricultural Work Experience in Harda district. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1134-6.

RAWE programme includes six month stay of B.Sc. (Ag.) IV year students in different villages to realise rural situation and gain agricultural work experience by practicing different techniques and methods of agricultural extension. The Outlook of B.Sc. (Ag.) students of JNKVV towards Rural Agricultural Work Experience in Harda District was found positive profitable for agricultural students even for their career. For boosting the practical knowledge and experience of students, KVK scientists were more effective guiding and teaching resource during this programme. The proper evaluation, time of programme and proper facilities of lodging, boarding and transportation also were found equally important for the success of programme. 93.33 per cent students developed their ability of cooperation and team work, 92 per cent known to establish good rapport with society and 90.67 per cent gained practical experiences by conducting RWAE programme.

2 tables, 4 ref

025919   THALKAR M G, KASAL Y G (Lovely Professional Univ, Phagwara - 144 411) : Productive and reproductive performance of Purnathadi and Ellichpuri strain of Nagpuri buffaloes. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1122-4.

The findings emerged out of the present study are confined to establish the physical characteristics of Purnathadi and Ellichpuri strain of Nagpuri buffalo breed. The main object of the study was to identify the different morphological characters of Purnathadi strain of Nagpur buffalo breed located in Akot tahsil of Akola district. The observations of the present study clearly established that the studied population of Purnathadi and Ellichpuri strain of Nagpuri buffalo breed was homogeneous and possessed certain physical characters distinctly which could form the base for identification. Survey conducted in Akot tahsil of Akola district of Maharashtra state of 500 numbers of Purnathadi strain and Partwada, Achalpur tahsil of Amaravati district 500 numbers of Ellichpuri strain of Nagpuri buffalo. Study carried away on productive and reproductive performance of total 1000 number of two strain Purnathadi and Ellichpuri strain of Nagpuri buffaloes

2 tables, 13 ref

025918   MOURYA K, KUMAR K, KUSHWAHA R R, YADAV R S (Agricultural Economics Dep, Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Faizabad - 224 229) : An economic analysis of paddy cultivation and its processing in Mau district of eastern Uttar Pradesh, India. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1109-12.

In the present paper, an attempt has been made to examine variations of rice production in different categories of the farmers. A study on an economic analysis of paddy cultivation and its processing in Mau district of eastern Uttar Pradesh was conducted for analysis the cost of input output in paddy cultivation. The study covered five villages of Ghosi block in Mau district and data on paddy cultivation, farm structure, costs, returns, cropping intensity and cost-return aspects of rice cultivation were collected from 100 farmers. The study reveal that average holding size was 1.27 hectare and cropping intensity was 237.79 percent, Paddy occupied 37.74 per cent of gross cropped area. It offers overall net income of Rs. 13419.10 with an expenditure of Rs. 35892.77 as total cost per hectare. Cost of production per quintal was found to be 845.95 which should the positive relationship with the farm size holding. The total processing cost per quintal of coarse paddy amounted to Rs 96.72, 89.70, 96.05 and in fine rice Rs. 103.64, 111.85, and 89.75 in marginal, small and medium, respectively.

4 tables, 7 ref

025917   AL-GHARAWI J K M, AL-ZAMILI I F , AL-HILALI A H (Animal Production Dep, Al-Muthna Univ, Iraq) : Effect of using different ways to provide the Iraqi probiotic on some productive traits of broiler. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1102-8.

This study was conducted in Poultry farm of agriculture research station to evaluate the effect of using different ways to provide Iraqi probiotic on some productive traits of broiler from 27/9/2016 till 1/11/2016.A total of 360 Ross broiler chicks, one day old, randomly divided to six groups of 3 replicates each (20 bird/rpt), (T1) control treatment, (T2) spraying Chicks with Iraqi probiotic at one day old (T3) Oral dosage of chicks with Iraqi probiotic at one day old (Iraqi probiotic with distilled water and 20% skim milk with dosage of 107 bacterial cells per chick injected in the mouth by 5 ml syringe and 0.2 ml per chick), (T4) injecting chicks with Iraqi probiotic in vent opening at one day old (Iraqi probiotic with distilled water and 20 % skim milk with dosage of 10⁷ bacterial cells per chick injected by vent opening by 5 ml syringe and 0.2 ml per chick), (T5) providing Iraqi probiotic with feed from one day old to marketing age (35 days) by 100 g probiotic per 100 kg diet, (T6) providing Iraqi probiotic with drinking water from one day old to marketing age (35 days) by 100 g probiotic per 100 liters of drinking water. Results showed the following appearance a significant value (pd”0.05) in the productive traits. The best results were obtained in traits is the addition of Iraqi probiotic to drinking water (1887.36 g of final body weight) compare with other treatments (1691.39, 1794.79, 1823.40, 1745.41 and 1745.41g of T1, T2, T3, T4 and T5 treatment respectively), they providing the Iraqi probiotic by diet and followed by spray and oral dosage chicks by Iraqi probiotic, injecting via vent opening has given less impact in traits in comparison with a control treatment.

6 tables, 25 ref

025916   DWIVEDI R K, TIWARI B K, BAGHEL K S (J.N.K.V.V. Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Damoh) : Role of cluster frontline demonstration in enhancement of blackgram (Vigna mungo) production. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1088-90.

The cluster front line demonstrations were conducted on farmer’s field at Damoh district of Madhya Pradesh during kharif season of 2015-16 and 2016-17 at Jortala and Bamori village under real farm situations prevailing farmers practices were treated as control for the comparison with recommended practice. The result of cluster front line demonstration showed a greater impact on farmers due to significant increase in crop yield, higher than FP. The results revealed that improved seed of Azad-3+ Seed treatment (Tebuconazole 2 % DS @ 2g/kg seed + Rhizobium 5g/kg+ PSB 5g/kg seed) + plant protection; recorded average yield of 13.3 q/ha as compared to 7.5 q/ha in farmers practice (control plot). The economics and benefit cost ratio of both FP and RP plots were worked out. An average of Rs 45315/ha net returns was recorded under RP while it was Rs. 19861/ha under FP. Benefit cost ratio was 2.84 under RP, while it was 2.00 under FP. By incorporating proven technologies of black gram, yield potential and net income from black gram cultivation can be enhanced to a great extent with increase in the income level of the farming community of the district.

2 tables, 4 ref

025915   MADANE D A, MANE M S, KADAM U S, THOKAL R T (Soil Science and Agril Chemistry Dep, Lovely Professional Univ, Punjab, Email: dnyaneshwar.22722@lpu.co.in) : Effect of pulse irrigation (drip) through different irrigation levels on soil moisture distribution pattern and yield parameters of white onion (Allium cepa L.). Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1065-73.

The field experiment was conducted during rabi season from 12^th November, 2014 to 26^th April, 2015 and 23^rd November, 2015 to 4^th May 2016, on sandy clay loam soil at Instructional Farm of Department of Irrigation and Drainage Engineering, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, India (latitude 170º 45’ N and longitude 730º 10’ E and altitude of 250 m). The experiment was arranged in twelve treatment combinations with strip plot design as horizontal factor (main treatment) one continuous irrigation (P₁), two pulses (P₂), three pulses (P₃) and four pulses (P₄), while vertical factor (sub treatment) as irrigation levels viz. I₁ (0.80 ETC), I₂ (1.0 ETC ) and I₃ (1.20 ETC ) treatments. The soil moisture content at 2 hr after irrigation in I₂ P₄ treatment combination contours attained semicircular shape. The field capacity moisture (26.0 %) was discerned at 2 hr after irrigation in I₂ P₄ treatment combination at 30 cm distance from the emitter across the lateral at 15 cm depth, which might have provided favorable soil-water-air plant relationship during critical growth stages of onion between two emitters at 30 cm distance across the lateral. It was contemplated that average soil moisture content across 30 cm distance from the emitter at 2 hr before and after 2 hr irrigation at 15 cm and 30 cm depth in the treatment combination I₂ P₄ provided favorable soil-water-air plant relationship in the entire root zone. The interaction effect revealed that highest mean polar diameter (63.88 mm), geometric mean diameter (59.51 mm), equatorial diameter (63.16 mm), average bulb weight (112.05 g) and yield (38.52 t.ha^-1) of white onion was found in treatment combination I₂ P₄ followed by I₃ P₄.

12 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

025914   JAGETIYA B (Botany Dep, M.L.V. Government Coll, Bhilwara - 311 001) : Effect of urea on chlorophyll contents and yield of Glycine max (l.) Var. related with senescence. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1061-4.

The effect of different urea concentration on chlorophyll contents, pod size and weight per 100 seeds of Glycine max L. (soybean) was studied. Urea increased chlorophyll contents as well as pod size and weight per 100 seeds at V₆ and R₂ stage at all its application rate. There was no effect of urea treatment at R₈ stage as plant senescence gets start.

5 illus, 3 tables, 15 ref

025913   VIMAL V K, SINGH P K, PANDEY V P (Vegetable Science Dep, N.D. Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Faizabad- 224 229) : Assess the genetic diversity for growth yield and quality characters among the genotypes of turmeric. Plant Arch 2018, 18(1), 1026- 32.

The present investigation entitled was carried out in randomized block design with three replications during 2013-14 and 2014-15 to study the variability among the thirty genotypes for growth, yield its attributing characters and quality parameters. The study revealed that wide range of variation observed for all the traits among thirty genotypes. PCV were higher than GCV for all the characters. High estimates of PCV as well as GCV was observed for calcium plant height, number of tillers per clump, plant girth, weight of fresh rhizomes per plant, weight of mother rhizome, weight of primary rhizomes per plant, number of secondary rhizomes per plant, weight of secondary rhizomes per plant in number of tertiary rhizomes per plant in all environments. The high heritability accompanied with high genetic advance was estimated for plant height, number of tillers per clump, weight of fresh rhizome per plant, weight of mother rhizome, width of mother rhizome, weight of primary rhizomes per plant, weight of secondary rhizome, number of tertiary rhizomes per plant, rhizome yield and curcumin in all four environments (E₁, E₂, E₃, E₄) except curcumin in E₃. The study concluded that the improvement of these characters through simple selection.

3 tables, 18 ref