019290   Tekade A S;Kulkarni G N;Indulkar S T;Dhamgaye H B (Fisheries Hydrography Dep, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: ankicofsn@gmail.com) : Effect of temperatures on biochemical parameters of green mussel (Perna viridis) (Linnaeus, 1758). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 241-4.

The green mussel, Perna viridis is an important marine bivalve resource as it has very good dietary and medicinal values. In the present study, the 96h LT₅₀ of temperature for Perna viridis was evaluated within the temperature range from 28 to 36° at the interval of 2°. The 96h LT₅₀ was found to be 32.5ø C. Young mussels of size 40-50mm were maintainedand fed with the phytoplankton cultured at suitable concentrations. Based on LT₅₀ values the sub-lethal - 367 - temperatures, viz 28°, 29.5° and 31° were selected and the impact on biochemical parameters namely protein, glycogen and alkaline phosphatase was assessed. Results clearly reveal that temperature significantly affected the nutritional quality of green mussel, particularly the Protein and glycogen content with inverse relation.

3 illus, 23 ref

019289   Syed N;Mohite A;Sadawarte R;Desai A (NO, College of Fisheries (Dr. B. S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli), Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: ashishmohite@yahoo.com) : Indigenous methods of live fish storage adopted in wular and dal lake of Kashmir, India. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 443-5.

Indigenous methods of live fish storage have been discribed in this paper.

1 illus, 2 ref

019288   Surnar S R;Sharma O P;Saini V P (Aquaculture Dep, College of Fisheries, Maharana Pratap Univ of Agriculture and Technolo, Udaipur-313 001, Email: sharadaqua077@live.in) : Nutrient harvesting through aquaponics : Growth of Labeo rohita and production of plant (Spinach). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 389-96.

The nutrient harvesting and growth of fish (Labeo rohita) as well as plant (Spinach) were studied in rectangular cement tank (9' x 9' x 3') filled with 2500 liter water and stocked with 200(T₁), 400(T₂), 600(T₃) and 800(T₄) numbers of fingerlings of Labeo rohita. A control (without any fish) was run simultaneously for comparison for a periods of 60 days. The percent gain in weight and per day growth in percent body weight were 144.4 percent and 2.40 percent, respectively. The FCR was best (1.125 g) and the SGR was highest (5.946 %) in T₁. The plant (Spinach) growth (production) was highest (175g) in T₄ having highest stocking density of fish fingerlings showing high nutrient availability followed by T₃, T₂, control and T₁ with158, 137, 60 and 75 g respectively. The Spinach production was not significantly different between control & T₁ as well as between T₂ & T₃ and T₃ & T₄. There was significant positive correlation (r) between plant growth and NH₄-N. The results indicate significant effect of stocking density of fish on nutrient release and plant growth in aquaponics system.

8 tables, 31 ref

019287   Supriya S;Rajeshwari Y B;Narasimha Murthy H N;Gideon Gloridoss R;Prasanna S B;Jagadeeswary V;Naveen Kumar S (LPM Dep, Veterinary College, Hebbal-560 024, Email: s.priya03@yahoo.in) : Effect of supplementation of probiotics of the growth performance of weaned piglets. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 119-21.

An experiment was conducted to study the growth performance of weaned piglets fed with supplementary probiotics for 12 weeks. Thirty weaned Large White Yorkshire piglets were grouped in to three groups of ten each. The control (T₁) group was fed without supplement and treatment T₂ and T₃ were fed diet supplemented with 0.1 per cent Saccharomyces cerevisiae 10.0 billion CFU/g and 0.1 per cent Lactobacillus acidophilus 10.0 billion CFU/g, respectively. During feeding trial body weight and feed consumed were recorded and faecal samples collected at every four weeks interval to assess coliform count. Average meanbody weight (kg) of piglets at the beginning of the study were 9.13 ± 0.39 (T₁), 9.40 ± 0.57 (T₂) and 9.38 ± 0.46 (T₃) and at the end of the study were 36.20 ± 1.20 (T₁), 39.85 - 366 - ± 1.32 (T₂) and 37.67 ± 1.92 (T₃), average weekly weight gain (kg) was 2.26 ± 0.18 (T₁), 2.45 ± 0.19 (T₂) and 2.36 ± 0.29 (T₃) and average weekly dry matter intake (kg) 6.54 ± 0.82 (T₁), 6.45 ± 0.82 (T₂) and 6.46 ± 0.91 (T₃) and FCR was 3.20 ± 0.32 (T₁), 2.73 ± 0.25 (T₂) and 3.07 ± 0.23 (T₃). There was statistically no significant difference (P<62>0.05) between the groups in respect to body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio.

1 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

019286   Suman;Acharya V S;Mehra K;Singh V (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner, Email: suman.kumari473@gmail.com) : Comparative efficacy of insecticides and botanicals against major sucking pests of mothbean. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 153-7.

The efficacy of six insecticides and three botanicals were tested against jassid, whitefly and thrips on mothbean during Kharif, 2014 at Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Rajasthan. The results revealed that imidacloprid was found most effective treatment followed by thiamethoxam and acetamiprid against jassid and thrips whereas acetamiprid proved most effective insecticide followed by imidacloprid and thiamethoxam against whitefly. The botanicals (NSKE, neem oil and azadirachtin) proved least effective against jassid, whitefly and thrips while, treatment of acephate, dimethoete and ethion existed in moderate group of their efficacy. The maximum seed yield of mothbean was obtained in the treatment of imidacloprid and minimum in the treatment of neem oil. The minimum per cent avoidable loss (7.54%) was recorded in the plot treated with thiamethoxam, while maximum (43.18%) per cent avoidable loss obtained in control. The maximum incremental cost benefit ratio (14.48) was found in the treatment of imidacloprid followed by thiamethoxam (12.88) and acetamiprid (10.73).

2 tables, 16 ref

019285   Suman;Acharya V S;Mehra K;Singh V (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner, Email: keshav.mehra35@gmail.com) : Screening of - 365 - mothbean varieties against major sucking pests. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 143-6.

The screening of mothbean varieties (CZM-1, CZM-2, CZM-3, GMO-1, GMO-2, RMO-40-300, RMO-423, RMO-435, RMO-257 and RMO-40) was investigated against major sucking pests at Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanad Rajasthan Agricultural University, Bikaner during Kharif, 2014. During the investigation varieties CZM-1 and RMO-40-300 were found less susceptible to jassid while, varieties GMO-2, RMO-435 and GMO-1 were found highly susceptible. In case of whitefly, varieties RMO-40-300 and CZM-3 were found less susceptible while, varieties CZM-1, GMO-1 and GMO-2 were found highly susceptible. The variety GMO-1 found less susceptible to thrips while, varieties CZM-3, RMO-257, RMO-423 and GMO-1 were found highly susceptible to thrips.

10 ref

019284   Sudharshan V;Rajeshwari Y B;Prabhu T M; Satyanarayana K;Gouri M D;Narasimha Murthy H N;Anil Kumar G K (LPM Dep, Veterinary College Hebbal, Bengaluru-560 024) : Effect of intensive and semi intensive system of rearing on the growth performance of mandya sheep. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 147-50.

A study was conducted to assess the growth performance of Mandya lambs reared under intensive (T1) and semi intensive system (T2) of management. Twenty Mandya lambs of three months age were grouped in to two groups of ten each. T1 group was fed with concentrate mixture (300g) and maize fodder (ad lib), whereas animals in T2 group were allowed for grazing 8 hour and fed concentrate mixture (150g) for maintenance. During study period the body weight and feed consumed were recorded on weekly basis. The average mean body weight (kg) of lambs at the beginning of the study was 10.06 ± 0.17 (T1) and 10.18 ± 0.11 (T2) and at the end of the study was 15.69 ± 0.16 (T1) and 15.12 ± 0.11 (T2), respectively. Average weekly gain (Kg) were 0.499 ± 0.01(T1) and 0.412 ± 0.02 (T2) and average weekly dry matter intake (g) was 445 ± 2.0 (T1) and 440 ±1.0 (T2) and DMI intake per cent body weight was 3.4 ± 0.02 and 3.4 ± 0.03, respectively. Average daily gain (g) was 67.0 ±0.87 (T1) and 58.8±0.53 (T2). The average FCR was 6.9 ± 0.3 (T1) and 7.9 ±0.4 (T2). The dry matter intake was similar in both the system of management and there was significant (P<60>0.05) difference in average daily gain, feed conversion ratio and parasitic load. In the study it was concluded that Mandya sheep performed better under intensive management system, considering higher productive features including average daily gain and feed conversion ratio when compared to semi-intensive system of rearing.

3 tables, 13 ref

019283   Srivastava S;Gupta P S;Lal S;Sinha O K (Crop Improvement Div, ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow-226 002, Email: sangeeta_iisr@yahoo.co.in) : Rapid identification of endophytic fungi of sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) using PCR-RFLP of rDNA. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 21-6.

Restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis of PCR-amplified internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of rDNA is a - 364 - cheap and convenient molecular tool used in fungal taxonomy. This tool has been used for rapid identification of the endophytic fungi of sugarcane belonging to different genera for their further potential utilization. Eight isolates belonging to three endophytic fungi viz. Colletotrichum falcatum, Fusarium moniliforme and Trichoderma viride isolated from sugarcane plant were used for differentiation using PCR-RFLP pattern of rDNA. For this, the ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 region of rDNA was amplified with the help of universal primers and the PCR products were digested with various restriction enzymes. The size variation of amplified products ranged from 637 bp (C. falcatum isolates), 592-614 bp (F. moniliforme isolates) to 631-698 bp (T.viride isolates). Five restriction enzymes viz. Alu I, EcoR I, Bam H I, MSe I and Sma I used for PCR-RFLP of ITS fragments yielded a total of 54 bands that were arranged in three RFLP patterns. Banding pattern obtained with the combination of Alu I and Mse I enzymes presented the best profile to identify the endophytic fungi and allowed distinction at molecular level. This reflected the potential of PCR-ITS-RFLP using a combination of restriction endonucleases as a rapid and convenient differentiation tool to distinguish these endophytic fungi.

3 illus, 1 table, 26 ref

019282   Srijan A;Sudheer Kumar S;Raju C D (NO, Professor Jayashankar Telangana State Agricultural Univ, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Email: srijan.ambatil@gmail.com) : Studies on gene action and combining ability in rice (Oryza sativa L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1749-55.

A study on combining ability and gene action for grain yield and its component traits was carried out This study revealed that SCA variances were higher than GCA variances for most of the characters, which indicated the predominance of non-additive gene action. Among the testers, IR 72081A (1.29) and among the lines, four lines viz., RNR 15038 (7.71), MTU 1010 (5.49), IR 64 (1.57) and RNR (RK) 28 (1.43) showed significant positive GCA effects for grain yield. Out of 36 hybrids, 11 hybrids viz., IR 58025a x MTU 1010 (9.24), IR 68902A x Rajendra (6.82), IR 58025AxVaralu(5.96),IR72081AxRNR(RK) 28(5.31), IR68902AxRNR 15038 (4.15), IR72081 AxRNR (RK) 53 (3.98), IR 72081A x IR 64 (3.78), IR 58025A x NLR 33358 (3.58), IR 58025A x Satya (2.56), IR 72081A x Tellahamsa (2.31), and IR72081AxRNA 15048 (1.97) showed significant positive SCA effects. The GCA effects of the parents revealed that, the tester IR 72081A and lines, MTU 1010, IR 64, RNR 15038 and RNR (RK) 28 were best general combiners for yield and important yield components. Among the crosses, best specific combiners identified based on SCA ef-fects and corresponding mean performance being IR 58025AxMTU 1010,IR68902ARNR 15038 for grain yield and its component traits.

4 tables, 8 ref

019281   Sridhar V;Vinesh L S;Jayashankar M;Jayanthi P D K;Verghese A (Entomology and Nematology Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru-560 089, Email: vsridhar@iihr.res.in) : CLIMEX modelling for risk assessment of asian fruit fly, Bactrocera papayae (Drew and Hancock, 1994) in India. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 105-13.

Risk of establishment of Asian fruit fly, Bactrocera papayae (Drew and Hancock, 1994) an alien species to India was made for the present and expected climate change situations of 1 °C, 2 °C and 3 °C rise in global temperatures using CLIMEX, a - 363 - bioclimatic modelling tool. CLIMEX, the bioclimatic model was run for 33 known geo-referenced home locations of B. papayae using "regional match climate" function in order to predict the areas with similar Climate Match Index, (CMI <62> 0.7). The model was also run with rise in temperature of 1 °C, 2 °C and 3 °C for predicting the risk areas for B. papayae establishment, in case gets introduced accidentally. High climatic similarity was predicted for most parts of South East Asia, Africa, South America, few parts of Australia, North Western Europe, North and Central America. In India, a climate match of <62>0.7 was predicted for the states of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Orissa, Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Kerala and Chhattisgarh, which could be potential hot spots for B. papayae, if introduced accidentally. In India, with the rise in temperatures from 1 °C to 3 °C, there was a gradual decrease in the climate similarity for the pest establishment, particularly in the coastal regions of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. However, the climate similarity was projected to increase in the coastal parts in the states of Karnataka and Maharashtra with 3 °C rise in temperature, making the regions more suitable for pest establishment. Present findings emphasises the need for close monitoring in the regions predicted to have congenial climatic conditions for B. papayae and needs strict quarantine measures against this pest.

6 illus, 37 ref

019280   Sreekanth G B;Manju Lekshmi N;Chakraborty S K;Jaiswar A K;Singh N P (NO, ICAR-Central Coastal Agricultural Research Institute, Old Goa, Goa-403 402, Email: gbsree@gmail.com) : Seasonal fish species composition, catch rate and catch value in the small scale fishery of a tropical monsoon estuary along southwest coast of India. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 81-9.

The assessment of tropical coastal ecosystems involving small scale fisheries is a pre-requisite for fisheries management. With a total area of 39.9 km², Zuari estuary in Goa is one of the major estuaries located along the southwest coast of India and it holds a small scale fishery for the tribal fishermen residing along the coastal stretch of the estuary. The main objective of the study was to analyse seasonal patterns in fish species composition, catch rates and catch value in the small scale fishery of Zuari Insitu fishing operations were carried out on monthly basis in Zuari estuary from September, 2013 to August, 2015 and fish and shellfish fauna collected during the study were identified to the family, genus and species levels. The data collected on the species assemblages were used to study the seasonal patterns in fish assemblages, catch rates (CPUE) and catch value (VPUE) in Zuari estuary. A total of 68,715 organisms weighing 13980.4 kg were caught in 288 fishing operations from 2013 to 2015 in Zuari estuary. Two hundred and thirteen species from 74 families were identified and 30 species contributed about 60-70% of the catch. Escualosa thoracata, Sardinella longiceps, Mugil cephalus, Tenualosa toli, Fenneropenaues indicus, Portunus pelagicus, Thryssa malabarica, Rastrelliger kanagurta, Nematalosa nasus and Metapenaeus dobsonii were the dominant species on the basis of relative importance index (RII). There were significant seasonal variations in abundance, species composition, catch rate (CPUE) and catch value (VPUE). There was seasonality in fish species composition and maximum species diversity was observed during pre-monsoon season. The ecologically vulnerable aquatic species contributed 20-25% of the total catch and it is inferred that the estuary has a greater role in protecting these species. Small scale gillnet fishery of the estuary is analysed and documented in this study. The seasonal patterns in fish species composition catch rate and catch value are essential requirements for designing fisheries management. The present study gives insights formulate fisheries management actions to monitor and protect the fisheries resources of the estuary to ensure sustainable fisheries.

7 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

019279   Somkuwar R G;Bhange M;Sharma J;Upadhyay A K; Khan I (NO, ICAR - National Research Centre for Grapes, Pune-412 307, Email: rgsgrapes@gmail.com) : Interaction of biochemical and nutritional status of nodal sections with rooting success in grape rootstocks. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 115-21.

In India, use of grape rootstock in establishing new vineyard started two decades back.To meet the demand of planting material, selection of mature shoots from the mother vine plays an important role.The planting material should have the ability for callusing, rooting, budding and growth. The present experiment was conducted to study vegetative growth, rooting performance, biochemical changes and mineral nutrition in different nodal section of Dogridge and 110-R grape rootstocks after planting under tropical condition. The quality of planting material was assessed by different cane segments.The canes were sectioned into 4- bud segment of both the grape rootstocks. The changes in growth pattern, rooting success, biochemical changes and mineral nutrition level through morphological changes were studied. Canes were later planted in nursery to study the relationship between cane quality and root: shoot growth characteristics. Noticeable differences were recorded for cane and pith diameter, cane width: pith ratio, moisture percent and dry matter content in canes and also the C:N ratio. Dogridge rootstock showed higher rooting percent than 110-R. However, the rootstock 110-R sprouted earlier than Dogridge.The reducing sugar was significantly higher at 9-20 bud position in both the rootstocks.The nutrient status of canes of both the rootstocks showed significant changes for N% and Fe content in different nodal sections. The - 362 - cuttings prepared from1 to 12th internodes in Dogridge and1 to 16th nodes in 110-R had better quality in terms of early sprout, better rooting percent, higher shoot length, shoot diameter and highest amount of reducing sugar, proteins, starch, carbohydrates and well balanced root-shoot growth.

1 illus, 4 tables, 22 ref

019278   Sivakrishna N;Gayathri N K;Srinivas T; Umamaheshwari P (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, Agricultural College, Mahanandi, Kurnool District, Andhra Pradesh, Email: sivakrishnanese@gmail.com) : Studies on stability of promising early duration rice genotypes. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1738-41.

A field experiment was carried out with 21 rice genotypes for grain yield per plant and seven yield component traits to identify genotypes for cultivation across early, normal and late kharif seasons of the scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh state. The results revealed significant genotype x season interaction and the importance of both linear and non linear components of interaction for all the traits studied. The genotypes, RNR 11718, MTU PS 8-7-1 -1 and MTU 11371-4-1-1 were identified as potential genotypes suitable for cultivation across the paddy growing kharif seasons prevalent in the zone, while BPT 2671 was identified as potential genotype for cultivation during the normal kharif season of the scarce rainfall zone of Andhra Pradesh.

4 tables, 6 ref

019277   Singh S;Srivastava C P;Saini V;Ramesh K B (Entomology Div, ICAR-Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi-12, Email: satyachintu25@gmail.com) : Screening of green gram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] genotypes for resistance to flower thrips, Caliothrips indicus (Begnall) under natural condition. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 491-5.

Flower thrips, Caliothrips indicus (Begnall) is one of the most important sucking pest of green gram. The present investigation aimed to identify stable resistant genotype(s) through screening under natural condition. The experimental material consisted of twenty four genotypes screened under field condition at the Agricultural Research Farm, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, - 361 - Varanasi during Kharif season of 2015-16. The first incidence of C. indicus was observed at the initiation of flowering stage i.e. 37th standard week in all genotypes except VGG 10-008, ML 2412 and IPM 2-3. The peak population was found in 40th standard week. The pooled mean of C. indicus was recorded highest in genotype KM 2348 i.e. (1.41 thrips/10 flowers) and lowest in genotype VGG 10-008 (0.31 thrips/10 flowers). A low infestation was also recorded on IPM 2-3 (0.39 thrips/10 flowers) and IPM 312-19 (0.47 thrips/10 flowers) and they showed some extent of resistant against thrips The grain yield also varied significantly among the genotypes and ranged from 819 kg/ha in the genotype VGG 10-008 to 416 kg/ha in KM 2348.

1 illus, 2 tables, 17 ref

019276   Singh S K;Singh B K;Mishra V K (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Banda Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Banda-210 001, Email: surendra_34_72singh@yahoo.com) : Management scenario of termites in mango orchard through botanical insecticides in oromia region, western Ethiopia. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 201-5.

The experiment on the effectiveness of botanicals against termites was conducted during 2012 in the mango orchard at Green Focus Ethiopia Ltd., Nakemte, Western Ethiopia. Treatments were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications and applied four times in a year at three months interval in January, April, July and October. Among botanical concentrations, NSKE 10% was recorded as the best treatment in terms of percent reduction of termite population during entire observational period followed by vetiver 20% over control. Whereas, vetiver 20% was the best in terms of yield (59.00Kg/tree) followed by NSKE 10% (57.67 Kg/tree) and lowest yield (32.67Kg/tree) was recorded in control plot. Future study is needed to develop commercial formulations of the tested botanicals especially on vetiver and Millettia ferruginea against termites which may affordable to the farmers at reasonable price.

3 tables, 20 ref

019275   Singh S K (NO, National Research Centre for Integrated Pest Management, I.A.R.I., Pusa Campus, New Delhi-110 012, Email: sk_ncipm@yahoo.com) : Efficient egg clieaning technique for Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (lepidoptera : pyralidae). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 291-3.

A new technique for oviposition, egg collection and egg cleaning of Rice meal moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae) in the laboratory was conceptualized, designed and studied. It consists of a chamber having porous means. Adult insects of C. cephalonica are kept in it for mating and oviposition. This chamber is accommodated in a container having a delivery tube. A detachable apparatus having porous lid is kept below it. The eggs laid down by the female insects get sieved through porous means of the chamber along with the insect scales, dust particles and get collected in the container. For cleaning of eggs from scales, the container is filled with water. The scales being lighter in weight starts floating and the eggs being heavier in weight get settle down in the container. Upon opening the lid of the delivery tube, insect eggs along with some quantity of water passed down it. The water sieved down further leaving behind the cleaned eggs on the porous lid of the detachable apparatus and these cleaned eggs can be used for any desired work in the insect laboratories.

1 illus, 5 ref

019274   Singh N;Ram C N;Rakesh Kumar (Vegetable Science Dep, Narendra Deva Univ of Agriculture & Technology, Narendranagar (Kumarganj), Faizabad, Uttar Pradesh-224 239, Email: neerajsigh9838@gmail.com) : Assessment of genetic diversity in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1679-84.

To breed new and better cultivars than existing ones the breeder requires a comprehensive knowledge on diversity in available germplasm. Therefore, 35 tomato genotypes were evaluated for the extent of diversity for utilization in breeding pro-gram. The data recorded on 13 quantitative charac-ters were subjected to analysis of variance revealed significant differences. D² analysis was conducted to measure the genetic diversity among the genotypes. The 35 genotypes were grouped in 6 clusters using Tocher's method. Cluster I had maximum 14 genotypes. Intra-cluster distance was maximum for cluster III (253.889) followed by cluster II (174.038). The maximum inter-cluster genetic distance was maximum between cluster V and VI (1299.302) followed by IV and V (1225.052), indicating high genetic divergence among genotypes of these groups. Maximum contribution towards the divergence was account-able to plant height (44.71 %) followed by number of fruits per plant (26.39%) and average fruit weight (15.80%). The genotypes of cluster IV and cluster V constitute high cluster mean for different traits along with fruit yield per plant. These genotypes may be hybridized in different combinations for selection of transgressive segregants for average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant and better performance for yield.

6 tables, 16 ref

019273   Singh M;Narendra Kumar;Das A;Rakshit R (Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry Dep, Bihar Agricultural Univ, Sabour-813 210, Email: anusoil22@gmail.com) : Soybean response to organic and inorganic fertilization on aquic hapludoll soil. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1634-8.

A field experiments was conducted to explore the effect of FYM, vermicompost vermiwash and NPK on nodulation, growth, microbial biomass and yield in soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) var PS-1347. The application of FYM @ 10 t ha^-1 + 50% NPK, VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + 50% NPK and VW @ 10% + 50% NPK gave 44.33,51.83,43.78,109,86.84 and 16.66% significantly increased nodule number at 60 and 90 DAS, respectively over control. The maximum numbers of trifoliate leaves (47.95,77.83 and 77.15 plant-1) were recorded with the application of FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 + VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + VW @ 10% + 50% NPK. This treatment also significantly increased available phosphorus over application of 100% NPK, FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 + VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + VW @ 10% and FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 + VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + 50% NPK. The application of FYM @ 5 t ha^-1+VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + VW @ 10% + 50% NPK gave maximum available phosphorus (24.67 kg ha^-1) and potassium (133.93 kg ha^-1). The maximum microbial biomass C (299.95 and 171.42 μg g^-1 soil) at both the stages and maximum grain yield (3220.30 kg ha^-1) and biological yield (7156.75 kg ha^-1) were recorded with the application of FYM @ 5 t ha^-1 + VC @ 2.5 t ha^-1 + VW @ 10% + 50% NPK.

1 illus, 4 tables, 13 ref

019272   Singh M K;Gaurav Kumar;Tripathi A (NO, GB Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: mithileshgpb@gmail.com) : Inter-trait correlation and heritability study in direct seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1962-5.

Twenty rice varieties were evaluated under direct seeded condition to work out heritability and correlation of yield and yield contributing traits. High heritability was observed for panicle length, grains per panicle and number of tillers per plant. Lowest heritability was recorded for early vegetative vigor and days to 50% flowering. Correlation studies indicated positive significant association of yield per hectare with panicle length, field grains per panicle and number of - 359 - grains per plant. Correlation between grain yield per hectare and number of tillers per plant was significantly negative.

4 tables, 15 ref

019271   Singh H;Deshwal H L;Haldhar S M;Singh V (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Email: jindra.ento@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of some insecticides and botanicals against mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. (hemiptera : aphididae) on indian mustard. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 249-53.

This was to evaluate the bio-efficacy and economics of some insecticides and botanicals against mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi Kalt. on Indian mustard under field conditions. The treatment of imidacloprid 0.005% was found most effective followed by thiamethoxam 0.005% and dimethoate 0.03% which reduce up to 95.54, 91.80 and 90.85 per cent of aphid during both the years. The treatments of acephate 0.02%, profenophos 0.03% and spinosad 0.01% were existed moderately effective group in reducing aphid population. The treatment of karanj oil 5ml/litre, NSKE 5ml/litre and Neem oil (1ml/litre) were observed to be less effective which reduce up to 53.65, 58.41 and 59.93 per cent aphid population during both years.. The maximum seed yield of 1866 kg/ha was recorded in imidacloprid, which at par with thiamethoxam (1813 kg/ha) and dimethoate (1757 kg/ha). The lowest seed yield was obtained from untreated plots (1239 kg/ha).

1 illus, 2 tables, 28 ref

019270   Singh H;Deshwal H L;Haldhar S M (Agriculture Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Bikaner, Email: jindra.ento@gmail.com) : Population dynamics of the mustard aphid and its coccinellid predators. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 53-5.

Population dynamics of the mustard aphid and its coccinellid predators were studied in the Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, SKRAU, Bikaner, during rabi 2013-14 & 2014-15. The incidence of mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (kalt.) began in the first week of February 2014 & 2015 that gradually increased in numbers reaching to the maximum in the 9th & 8 th SMW of 2014 & 2015 respectively. The aphid population was non - significant negatively correlated with maximum & minimum temperature and with mean relative humidity it was significant negative correlation. The predatory activity of the coccinellids, C. septempunctata also began in the first week of February and the adult of coccinellids had a significant positive correlation with aphid population.

3 tables, 10 ref

019269   Singh G;Amitozkour;Hussain K;Sharma R;Gupta S (Animal Genetics and Breeding Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology of Jammu, Jammu, Email: dr786khalid@yahoo.com) : Isolation, biochemical characterization, antibiotic sensitivity and PCR based detection of Pasteurella multocida field isolates from backyard poultry. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1777-80.

In this study, isolation of P. multocida was attempted from backyard poultry birds suspected to be died of fowl cholera. A total of eight P. multocida isolates from backyard poultry birds respectively were isolated and identified on the basis of cultural, morphological and biochemical characteristics along with PM-PCR. The In vitroantibiotic sensitivity test of the organisms to a total of fourteen antibiotics was conducted which revealed that all the isolates were sensitive to gentamicin, doxycycline, enrofloxacin, penicilin and ampicillin. - 358 - Hence this study recom-mended the use of antibiotics Fluoroquinolones, Gentamicin, Ampicillin and Penicillin must be preferential considered over other antibiotics during the outbreak of fowl cholera if antibiotic sensitivity tests are not accessible.

1 illus, 1 table, 11 ref

019268   Singh D;Kerketta P;Anand Kumar;Neeraj (Sundaresan School of Animal Husbandry & Dairying, Sam Higginbottom Institute of Agriculture, Technology & Sciences, Allahabad-211 007, Email: priscillak802@gmail.com) : Goat and sheep production and marketing system in chaka block of Allahabad district, Uttar Pradesh. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 129-32.

A study was conducted to assess the milking and marketing system followed by 120 small ruminant farmers in Chaka block of Allahabad district, Uttar Pradesh, India. The study revealed that 64.8% of goat owners followed milking practices while 35.2% of the respondents do not milked their goats. Very few of the sheep owners 38.9% practiced milking for their own consumption while 61.1% do not milking their sheep. Majority of the goat owners 79.77% followed once a day milking while 20.3% of them followed twice a day milking. In case of sheep, almost 100% of the respondent followed once a day milking. Out of total, 15.3%, 54.2% and 30.5% of goat owners while 14.3%, 28.6% and 57.1% of sheep owners followed full hand, knuckling and striping method of milking, respectively. It was observed that none of the respondent followed testing for mastitis in their goat and sheep. Most of the respondents 43.3% sold their goat and sheep at the age more than 12 months, while 36.7% of the respondent sold their goat and sheep between the age 6-12 month and 20% of the respondent sold their kid and lamb at the age of 6 months. Goat owners sold their goats to butchers and sheep owners to the big trader. Due to the involvement of middlemen the farmers were unable to get maximum profit.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

019267   Singh A;Naik K R (NO, , JNKVV, Jabalpur, Email: ashasinghraipoot@gmail.com) : Effect of seaweed sap on the nutrient uptake by black gram under rainfed condition. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1747-8.

The present study was made to investigate the effect of different concentrations (2.5,5.0,7.5 and 10.0%) of K-sap and G-sap (Kappaphycus-sap and - 357 - Gracilaria-sap, respectively) with RDF (recommended dose of fertilizer -20 : 50 : 20kg NPK ha^-1) and 6.25% of K-sap with 50% RDF on nutrient uptake by black gram. Presence of growth promoting hor-mones (Auxins, Cytokinins, Gibberrellins), trace el-ements, vitamins, amino acids, antibiotics and mi-cronutrients is responsible for significant increase in nutrient uptake by black gram (grain and stover) with increasing doses of seaweed saps (2.5-10.0%). Significantly higher nitrogen, phosphorus and potas-sium content in grain (3.49%, 0.36% and 0.75% re-spectively) was obtained with its application. Among all the treatments, the application of 10.0% K-sap with RDF gave significantly higher uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (186.41 : 18.70 : 90.93 kg ha^-1, respectively).

1 table, 6 ref

019266   Singh A K;Hemlata (Horticulture Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi, Email: 1989hemlata@gmail.com) : Influence of paclobutrazol on growth and seed yield in african marigold. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1900-2.

A field experiment was carped out to as-sess appropriate dose of paclobutrazol in marigold. Experiment consisted of eight doses of paclobutrazol (PP333) i.e. 0,1,3,4,5,6 and 7 mg/ plant. Experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications. Paclobutrazol at 6 mg/plant significantly increased number of primary branches, fresh weight of leaves per plant, leaf area index, chlorophyll content, early seed ripening and seed index. However, maximum stem diameter, number of seeds and seed weight per flower were registered with 2 mg PP333/ plant treatment and maximum seed yield was recorded with 5 mg PP333/plant. In effective to improve plant growth and seed yield.

2 tables, 7 ref

019265   Sindhu P V;Kanakamany M T;Beena C (College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, KAU P.O, Thrissur, Kerala-680 656, Email: pv.sindhu@kau.in) : Effect of organic manures and biofertilisers on herbage yield, quality and soil nutrient balance in Indigofera tinctoria cultivation. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 16-20.

Experiments were conducted to study the effect of combined application of organic manures and biofertilisers on herbage yield and quality of Indigofera tinctoria during September 2012 -13 and 2013-14 at All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Medicinal, Aromatic Plants and Betel Vine Centre, Kerala Agricultural University Thrissur, Kerala, India. The treatments included FYM 10 Mg ha^-1, FYM 10 Mg ha^-1 + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1), FYM 10 Mg ha^-1 + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1) + VAM (2 kg ha^-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha^-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha^-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1), Vermicompost (3 Mg ha^-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1) + VAM (2 kg ha^-1), Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha^-1), Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha^-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1) and Coirpith compost (4 Mg ha^-1) + Azospirillum (2 kg ha^-1) + VAM (2 kg ha^-1). The pooled herbage yield was higher in plots with basal application of farm yard manure 10 Mg ha^-1 and azospirillum 2 kg ha^-1 (5691 kg ha^-1). However, it was statistically on par with individual application of coirpith compost @ 4 Mg ha^-1 (5542 kg ha^-1) and combined application of vermicompost @ 3 Mg ha^-1 along with Azospirillum 2 kg ha^-1 (5304 kg ha^-1). The quality as indicated by glycoside indican was more in plants which received basal application of FYM alone. The uptake of N and K were higher in treatments which recorded higher herbage yield. Due to combined application of organic manures and biofertilisers, N and K contents in the post experimental soil increased significantly, while the content of P decreased. The highest B: C ratio of 3.51 was in treatment with Farmyard manure 10 Mg ha^-1 and Azospirillum 2 kg ha^-1.

3 tables, 14 ref

019264   Simi M C;Aneena E R;Panjikkaran S T;Sharon C L;Sheela K B (College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, KAU P.O, Thrissur, Kerala-680 656, Email: aneenaer@gmail.com) : Standardisation and quality evaluation of queensland arrowroot (Canna edulis L.) based custard powder. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 35-40.

Roots and tubers are the third important food crop of mankind after cereals and pulses. Queensland arrowroot (Canna edulis L.) is an underutilized tuber grown in many countries for its edible starchy rhizome. Canna starch is easily digestible and has good potential in food application. Canna starch powder is exceptional for its pure white colour and fine texture and these quality attributes are retained during storage. Ready-touse custard powder was standardized using canna starch and corn flour in different combinations. The overall acceptability of custard prepared exclusively with rhizome starch (35%) was found to be 8.69 and was selected as the best combination. The standardized custard powder had excellent sensory and microbial qualities and was found to be self-stable. Queensland arrowroot starch is a new promising starch source suitable for the development of various value added products.

5 tables, 23 ref

019263   Shruthi H T;Srinivasa V;Ibaad M H;Prajna S P (Vegetable Science Dep, College of Horticulture, Mudigere-577 132, Email: shruthiht.horti@gmail.com) : Effect of biofertilizers on growth and root yield of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) Cv pusa chetki under hill zone of Karnataka. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 2014-17.

An experiment on the effect of biofertilizers on growth and root yield of radish (Raphanus sativus L.) cv Pusa Chetki was carried out during 2014-15 under hill zone of Karnataka. Various combination of biofertilizers along with various fertilizers were used for the study purpose. The experiment was conducted in sandy loam soils. The results revealed that the plants provided with 75% RDF + Azatobacter + phosphorus solubilizing bacteria + potassium solu-bilizing bacteria + Pseudomonas (T₁₀) recorded maximum plant height (30.90 cm), number of leaves (12.50), leaf length (30.47 cm), leaf width (10.70 cm), plant spread N-S direction (31.27 cm), E-W direction (28.43 cm), fresh weight of leaves (54.03 g). dry weight of leaves (6.01g), root length (27.03 cm), root girth (14.17 cm), fresh weight of root (186.03 g) and dry weight of root (8.62 g).

3 tables, 7 ref

019262   Shrivastava A K;Sinha A K;Dubey A;Gautam A K (Farm Machinery and Power Engineering Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: abhaysinha.1995@gmail.com) : Computer model to select optimum size of farm power for paddy-wheat crop rotation in Madhya Pradesh, India. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1868-73.

The farm power and machinery jointly represent the largest single item of expenditure con-stituting about 60% of the total investment on a farm. Tractor industries play an important role as agriculture sector has major contribution to India's GDP. There are currently 19 manufacturers of tractors in India. The selection of tractor and stationary power have now become very difficult in Madhya Pradesh as well as India because of availability of variety of tractor and stationary power models. To overcome the problem for selection of optimum power, an expert system modelling approach leading to decision support system (DSS) was adopted to make the step wise decision. The application of DSS was demonstrated in the paper - 355 - to select either tractor or stationary power. The selection of tractor power in the study area, through model, a linear relationship was found be-tween the optimum PTO power of tractor selected and the farm size. The unit power requirement fol-lowed an inverse relationship with the farm size. Initially it decreased rapidly from 1 to 3 ha of farm size and thereafter, it tended to be asymptotic with the farm size. The cost of irrigation with diesel engine was found to be 133% higher than electric motor for irrigating 8 ha of farm. This difference in cost was further increased to 190% for irrigating 16 ha of farm. Irrigation cost on energy consumption basis was lower than on flat rate basis upto 8 ha farm. Whereas, it is higher for farm sizes more than 8 ha. Cost of irrigation with diesel engine was consistently higher than the cost of irrigation with electric motor in either flat rate or energy consumption basis for any farm size.

6 illus, 8 ref

019261   Shrilakshmi R G;Patil R R (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, Email: shreegaikwad955@gmail.com) : Life cycle of groundnut rooot grub Holotrichia fissa brenske. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 313-16.

Study on the biology of Holotrichia fissa Brenske was carried out at College of Agriculture, Dharwad. The size of adult emergence hole was on an average of 0.98 cm. Adults showed the sexual dimorphic characters in colour, size and tarsal characters. Mating period was 4-5 minutes. The life cycle of H. fissa was completed in 103 days with an egg period of 9.10 days, total larval period of 80.3 days, and pupal period of 15.7 days. Adult longevity with food lasted for 9.10 days while without food lasted for 7.60 days.

4 tables, 12 ref

019260   Shinde K;Mohite A (NO, Marine Biological Research Station, Zadgaon, Ratnagiri, Email: ashishmohite@yahoo.com) : Design, construction and operational aspects of wooden dugout canoe of Ratnagiri, Maharashtra. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 461-3.

To catch the nearshore fishes our ancestors had used many floating structures made up from locally available materials. The traditional fishing boats are highly adapted to the fishing techniques and marine conditions of a specific region. Out of which the most useful and popular floating structure was Dugout canoe. Dugout canoes used for gill netting operation were small, open type of boats without cabin constructed in a single log of wood and propelled by means of Oars and without rudder. They were mostly carved in the single log of Aini, Mango, Harad, Teak and Rubber wood. Overall length, breadth and depth of dugout canoe used as gill netters ranged in between 3.15 to 5.35 m, 0.55 to 1.05 m and 0.26 to 0.95 m, respectively.

1 illus, 10 ref

019259   Sheoran N;Vinus;Sihag S;Maan N S (Animal Nutrition Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences, Lala Lajpat Rai Univ of Veterinary and, Hisar, Haryana) : Expression analysis of immunity related genes in white leghorn layers supplemented with probiotics and prebiotics. Pharma Innovation 2017, 6(11), 14-18.

One hundred and forty White Leghorn layers of 22-23±0.08 weeks of age were divided randomly into seven experimental groups, having 4 replicates with 5 birds in each. Feeding trial was conducted for period of 16 weeks. During the trial, in (T₁) control group layers were fed basal diet formulated as per BIS (2007) standards. While the basal diet was supplemented with probiotics (containing 5x10⁸cfu/g of Lactobacillus fermentum, 1x10⁹cfu/g of Bacillus spp. and 1x10⁹cfu/g of Saccharomyces cerevisiae) @ 0.5g, 1.0g and 2.0g Kg^-1 feed in T₂, T₃ and T₄ treatment groups, respectively. In the present study the relative mRNA expression levels of immunity related genes viz. Toll like receptors (TLRs) TLR 5, TLR 21 and TNF receptor associated factor 6 (TRAF 6) was analyzed in reference to endogenous reference gene á-Actin. The study results revealed that there was significant - 354 - (P<60>0.05) downregulation in the relative mRNA expression levels of TLR 5 and its downstream gene TRAF 6 when increasing levels of the probiotics and prebiotics were supplemented to the laying hens. While, significant upregulation was observed in differential expression of TLR 21 due dietary inclusion of these feed additives. Thus, it can be concluded that the dietary inclusion of the probiotics and prebiotics can enhance the T cell mediated innate response in hens and in turn boost their immunity by significantly affecting the genes related immunity.

2 illus, 2 tables, 21 ref

019258   Sheoran N;Venu S;Bishnoi S;Shunthwal J;Maan N S (Animal Nutrition Dep, College of Veterinary Sciences, Hisar, Haryana) : Effect of dietary inclusion of probiotics and prebiotics on external egg quality traits in white leghorn layers. Pharma Innovation 2017, 6(11), 8-13.

A 16 week feeding trial was carried out to study the influence of dietary inclusion of probiotics and prebiotics on livability, egg shape index and egg shell quality parameters. A total of 140 White Leghorn layers in the age group of 22 to 38 weeks were divided randomly into seven experimental groups containing 4 replications of 5 birds each. In (T₁) control group layers were fed a basal diet formulated as per BIS (2007) standards. In treatment groups T₂, T₃ and T₄ hens were fed control diet supplemented with probiotics (containing 5x10⁸ cfu/g of Lactobacillus fermentum, 1x10⁹ cfu/g of Bacillus spp. and 1x109 cfu/g of Saccharomyces cerevisiae) @ 0.5g, 1.0g and 2.0g Kg^-1 feed, respectively, and layers in experimental groups T₅, T₆ and T₇ were fed basal diet added with prebiotics (mannan oligosaccharide of Saccharomyces cell wall-47gm, formic acid-32gm, HSCAS-upto 1Kg) @ 0.5g, 1.0 g and 2.0 g Kg^-1 feed, respectively. Study results revealed that there was (P<60>0.05) increase in egg shell thickness, egg shell weight and egg shell percent under different levels of probiotic and prebiotic regimes (T₃, T₄, T₅, T₆ and T₇) as compared to the control (T₁) group. Shell thickness increased from 0.348 to 0.374 mm indicating an advantage of 0.026mm in favour of probiotics and prebiotics. Egg shape index was not affected, however, egg width and egg length were (P<60>0.05) increased under various levels of probiotics and prebiotics supplementation in comparison to control. The mean body weight gain in hens were not affected significantly and no mortality was observed under different dietary regimes. Thus, result findings clearly indicate that supplementation of probiotics and prebiotics has beneficial effects by significantly improving the egg shell thickness, shell weight, shell weight percentage and egg shape parameters, without affecting health and livability of the layers.

5 tables, 25 ref

019257   Shenoy S B;Rajagopalan A (NO, College of Agriculture, Padannakkad-671 328, Email: rajagopalan.a@kau.in) : Morphological and anatomical characters related to dwarfness in mango (Mangifera indica L.). J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 84-6.

A pot culture experiment in CRD with eight mango varieties and three replications was laid out in the Department of Pomology and Floriculture of College of Agriculture, Padannakkad during 2013-2015, to study the different morphological and anatomical characters associated with dwarfness. Among the morphological characters studied, plant height, number of leaves, leaf-length, width, total leaf area and inter nodal length recorded least values in Vellaikolamban. With respect to anatomical parameters, phloem-xylem ratio was maximum (0.78) in Vellaikolamban. Based on various morphological and anatomical characters, Vellaikolamban was classified as dwarf.

3 tables, 10 ref

019256   Shelar K;Nema S;Harne A (Plant Pathology Dep, JNKVV, Jabalpur-482 004, Email: shelark8@gmail.com) : Evaluation of plant extract against Alternaria burnsii causing blight of cumin. Pestology 2017, 41(1), 27-30.

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is one of the most important spices crop grown in India. During the survey cumin crop was found moderately to severely affected by fungal blight in Jabalpur (M.P). Looking to the seriousness of the disease, present investigation was under taken to find out suitable nine plant extracts for minimizing the crop losses. The result of plant extracts evaluated against Alternaria burnsii revealed that Datura leaf extract (58.52%) inhibition of mycelial growth was highly effective than all other plant extracts followed by Jatropha (50.74%) and Babool (49.63%) inhibition respectively.

1 illus, 1 table, 5 ref

019255   Sheery P M;Kaushal D K;Choudhary B K;Sarma K; Mohanty S;Kumar T;Dey A (Livestock and Fisheries Management Div, ICAR Research Complex for Eastern Region, Patna-800 014, Email: tarkeswariac@gmail.com) : Culture of Macrobrachium rosenbergii, under mono and poly culture system in Bihar. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1922-6.

The present paper evaluates "the production pattern of monoculture and polyculture of giant freshwater prawns (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) under multiple water use system. In this study, prawns cultured in the semi-intensive systems involving stocking of PL-20 @ 20/m² in ponds. Fertilization was used and a balanced feed ration was supplied as per the standard rate. In monoculture, prawn yield was 610 kg/ha and survival rate was 60% whereas in polyculture of prawn yield was 730 kg/ha with a survival rate of 69% along with fish yield of 3321 kg/ha. With proper management of water quality, health of stock and feed, freshwater prawn culture practices can become a major source of income for rural people.

1 illus, 1 table, 25 ref

019254   Sharma P;Singh A;Pardeep Kumar;Bhardwaj N; Shobha (Vegetable Science & Floriculture Dep, CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya, Palampur-176 062, Email: parveens012@gmail.com) : Ecological effect of protected environment on quality traits of bacterial wilt resistant tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) hybrids. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1997-2001.

This study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the tomato hybrid combinations under protected conditions. Sixteen hybrids of tomato comprising fifteen hybrid combinations and one check were tested under modified naturally ventilated polyhouse conditions to assess the marketable yield and its component traits. Experiment was raised in randomized block design with three replications during the year 2012 and 2013. Analysis of variance - 352 - revealed highly significant variation among the genotypes for all the characters studied. Hybrid combination BWR-5 (F/R) x Palam Pride possessed maximum TSS content followed by 15-2(H/R)x 16-B. However, BWR-5 (F/R) xCLN 1314G fruits were more acidic and maximum ascorbic acid content was found in hybrid Hawaii-7998 x Palam Pink.

2 illus, 3 tables, 10 ref

019253   Sharma L;Tamta E;Pant B;Joshi D;Ram R N (Fisheries Resource Management Dep, College of Fisheries, GBPUA & T, Pantnagar, U.S. Nagar-263 145, Email: hereami09@gmail.com) : Effect of variable oxygen concentration levels on embryonic growth and development of rohu and jayanti rohu in four different systems. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 547-53.

The present study was conducted to assess the effect of oxygen level on the embryonic development of Rohu (Labeo rohita) and Jayanti Rohu under Tarai conditions of Uttarakhand. The present study dealt with the morphological aspects of the embryonic stages along with the effect of oxygen level on the embryonic development. Fishes were induced and eggs were fertilized at natural atmospheric conditions. Fertilized eggs were introduced into different systems (aerator, flow though, controlled, hatchery) with different level of oxygen. Developmental stages were monitored by sampling embryos from different systems till 80 hours. The present findings clearly demonstrated that the incubation at different oxygen levels significantly influences hatching duration, hatching rate and survival of eggs of both Rohu and Jayanti Rohu and also revealed that the embryonic development of eggs was faster at higher oxygen concentrations.

1 illus, 1 table, 10 ref

019252   Shankarappa T H;Geeta G S;Manju M J;Indi D V; Alagawadi A R;Krishnaraj P U (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, College of Horticulture, Tamaka, Kolar-563 103, Email: shankarappath@gmail.com) : Agroresidues - alternate cheap substrates for fermentable sugar production by crude enzymes of different fungi. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1881-9.

Agroresidues viz., sugarcane bagasse, su- garcane tops, sugarcane trash, corn husk and corn stover were pretreated with alkali using 3.0% NaOH for 8 hours and then autoclaved at 121°C, 15 Ibs pressure for 1h. The pretreated residues were subjected for production of fermentable sugars using crude enzymes of four proven cellulolytic fungi @ 20 FPU per gram substrate using 2.0, 5.0 and 7.5% substrate concentrations. The highest release of reducing sug-ars and per cent saccharification was achieved with T. reesei crude cellulase enzyme at 5% substrate concentration in 24 h incubation, 478.67 mg g^-13 and 68.06% in sugarcane bagasse, 442.13 mg g^-1 and 64.91% in sugarcane tops, 437.56 mgg^-1 and 64.24% in sugarcane trash, 420.80 mg g^-1 and 61.08% in corn husk and 428.42 mg g^-1 and 61.08% in corn stover, respectively.

6 tables, 13 ref

019251   Shankarappa T H;Geeta G S;Indi D V; Doddagoudar C K;Alagawadi A R;Krishnaraj P U (Agricultural Microbiology Dep, College of Horticulture, Tamaka, Kolar-563 103, Email: shankarappath@gmail.com) : Agroresidues-alternate cheap substrates for fermentable sugar production by commercial cellulases and xylanase enzymes. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1890-5.

The use of commercial cellulase enzyme at 15 U per g concentration with β-glucosidase and Xylanase enzymes at 10 and 5 U per g substrate on different concentrations of alkali pre-treated substrates (sugarcane bagasse, sugarcane tops, sugarcane trash, come husk and corn stover). The 5.0% concentration of substrates produced maximum reducing sugar at 657.84, 615.37, 573.91, 555.54 and 562.31 mg per g with 93.53,90.35,84,26,80.64 and 82.56% saccharification respectively in sugarcane bagasse, sugarcane tops, sugarcane trash, corn husk and corn stover at the end of 12 h incubation. It was found to be on par with 24 h incubation period. The reducing sugar concentration showed a declining trend as the substrate concentration increased since the per cent saccharification is depended on substrate concentration.

1 illus, 5 tables, 14 ref

019250   Shaikh S M;Joshi V R;Pagarkar A U;Pai R; Balange A K (College of Fisheries, Shirgaon (Dr. B. S. Konkan Krishi Vidyapeeth, Dapoli), Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: sadiyashaikh111@gmail.com) : Effect of heat penetration on quality of acetes ball in curry in retort pouch processed at 121.2°C for different durations. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 605-10.

Acetes ballin curry product was subjected to thermal processing in retort pouches (100 g of acetes balls and 150 g of curry medium)at 121.2 °C for different durations of processing period (after come up time)i.e. 2,4 and 6 minutes. The total processed period was found to be 40 min at 121.2 °C for 2 min duration, 42 min processed at 121.2°C for 4 min duration and 44 min processed at 121.2°C for 6 min duration. Retort cooked products were tested for sterility, physical (expressible water percentage and gel strength), biochemical (pH and moisture)parameters and organoleptic evaluation. Among the three durations of processing period, acetes ball in curry processed at 121.2°C for 4 min duration(F₀ value of 10.65), was showed better sensory quality characteristics reflected by changes in the physical and biochemical parameters.

4 illus, 2 tables, 27 ref

019249   Shaheena K M F;Girija D;Gopal K S;Sureshkumar P;Kumar P G S (College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur, Kerala-680 656, Email: ssheenu91@gmail.com) : Novel free living diazotrophs associated with black pepper in Wayanad. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 71-8.

Diazotrophs are nitrogen fixing microorganisms that play a key role in maintaining soil health by converting atmospheric nitrogen into plant available form through biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). In this study, free living diazotrophic bacteria were isolated from rhizosphere soil and phylloplane of black pepper from Wayanad. Twenty predominant isolates were screened for growth and nitrogen fixation at varying levels of - 350 - pH. There was a decrease in growth and N-fixation, when the pH was reduced from seven to five. Many of the isolates exhibited plant growth promoting (PGP) traits like production of indole acetic acid (IAA), ammonia and hydrogen cyanide (HCN) under in vitro conditions. A few isolates were found to possess antagonistic activity against the soil borne plant pathogens, Rhizoctonia solani and Ralstonia solanacearum. However, none of the isolates exhibited antagonistic activity against the pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum. Based on in vitro screening, four isolates were found to be promising diazotrophs, and these were identified by 16S rDNA sequencing as Microbacterium (NKdS and NPPV), Cellulosimicrobium (NPS-1) and Brevundimonas (NKPV-2), Microbacterium is an actinomycete, reported to be endophytic in certain crop species. Nitrogen fixation combined with other plant growth promoting activities makes them an attractive choice for further exploitation as biofertilizers.

6 tables, 25 ref

019248   Shahanila P P;Prameela P;Visalakshi K P;John P S (College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur, Kerala-680 656, Email: prameela.p@kau.in) : Aerobic rice in uplands with micro sprinkler irrigation. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 79-83.

A field experiment was conducted at Kerala Agricultural University campus, Thrissur, during February to June 2014 to study the response of upland aerobic rice to sprinkler irrigation. The trial was laid out in Split Plot Design with three replications. Treatments included four irrigation levels; sprinkler irrigation at 75 per cent pan evaporation, 100 per cent pan evaporation, 125 per cent pan evaporation and life saving irrigation at 5cm depth at required stages and three fertilizer doses; 90:45:45 N, P₂O₅, K₂O kg ha^-1, 70:35:35 N, P₂O₅, K₂O kg ha^-1 and 60:30:30 N, P₂O₅, K₂O kg ha^-1. Sprinkler irrigation at 125 per cent pan evaporation resulted in significantly higher plant height, tiller number per hill, panicles per hill, grains per panicle, grain and straw yield. The highest field water use efficiency (FWUE) of 9.11 kg ha^-1 mm^-1 was recorded at the lower irrigation level of 75 per cent pan evaporation. The fertilizer levels failed to show significant influence on grain yield.

1 illus, 2 tables, 8 ref

019247   Shah T K;Saini V P;Ojha M L;Raveender B (Aquaculture Dep, College of Fisheries, M.P.U.A.T., Udaipur, Email: kunnushah4545@gmail.com) : Effect of temperature on growth and survival of guppy (Poecilia reticulata). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 505-10.

In this study, the effect of temperature on growth and survival of guppy Poecilia reticulate (Peter 1860) was investigated. To evaluate the effect of temperature on growth and survival rate of guppy anexperiment was conducted under laboratory conditions. The different water treatments [i.e. control, 26(T₁), 28(T₂), 30(T₃) and 32°C (T₄)] were given to experimental fish (guppy) in aquarium (45 cm3). Highest (0.98cm) and lowest (0.70cm) net length gain were observed in T₃ (30°C) and control respectively. The per cent length gain was highest (110%) in T₄, while the lowest (92.5%) being in T₁. The weight gain had significant positive relationship with rearing temperature. The highest (0.070 g) net weight gain was recorded in T₃ and the lowest net weight gain (0.038g) was in control. Further, the per cent weight gain was highest (1750.00 %) in T₃ and lowest (950.00 %) in control. The highest (100%) survival was observed in control and two temperature treatments (i.e. T₁ & T₂). In treatments T₃ & T₄, survival rate was 90 and 80 per cent, respectively.

6 illus, 3 tables, 19 ref

019246   Shah A et al. (Veterinary Pathology Dep, Faculty of Veterinary Science & Animal Husbandry, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ, Kashmir) : Somatic cell alteration in healthy and mastitic milk of sheep and goats. J Ent Zool Stud 2017, 5(6), 27-33.

The present study was conducted from December 2014 to April 2016 in three districts of Kashmir valley including Srinagar, Ganderbal and Budgam. 50 milk samples were collected from healthy and mastitic sheep and goats. California mastitis test was used to confirm the presence of mastitis in the animals. Direct microscopy was done to find the somatic cell count in both the species along with the differential leukocyte count. It was found that neutrophils increases in both sheep (74.08±4.02) and goats (79.10±3.75) during mastitis while as macrophages are predominant in healthy milk of sheep (54.60±4.40) and neutrophils in healthy goats (64.10±5.91) showing the species difference. Gram's positive bacteria were demonstrated in the milk smears. Cytochemical examination showed altered demonstrable activity of glycogen, alkaline phosphatase and myeloperoxidase. It was concluded mastitis in small ruminants increases the somatic cell count and alters the differential cell count affecting both quality and quantity of milk. Cytochemical demonstration of glycogen, alkaline phosphatase and myeloperoxidase shows the high activity of somatic cells during mastitis.

8 illus, 48 ref

019245   Sethi K;Tripathy P;Mohapatra K C (All India Coordinated Research Project on Cashew, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: kabita2273@yahoo.com) : Variability and heritability of important quantitative characters in - 348 - cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1795-8.

Studies on genetic variability were carried out among 13 diverse cashew types for different quantitative parameters during 1995 to 2011 with an objective to investigate the heritable and non-heritable components of variations for crop improvement program. The results of variability of 13 diverse cashew types over fourteen years showed wide variations among the different quantitative traits, i.e. both vegetative growth and nut yield and yield attributing parameters. In general PCV was higher than GCV for all traits denoting the environmental factors influencing the expression of the traits to some degree. The pooled results also clearly demonstrated the wide dif-ferences between PCV and GCV for flowering laterals m^-2 (20.70 and 15.11) and nuts panicle^-1 (36.70 and 26.45) depicting their susceptibility to environment fluctuations. In contrast, the narrow differences between PCV and GCV for plant height (11.63 and 10.31), trunk girth (15.42 and 14.04), canopy spread (14.50 and 12.67 in North-South direction, 14.67 and 13.46 in East- West direction), nut weight (18.74 and 17.82), cashew apple weight (27.94 and 26.02), shelling % (4.98 and 3.11) and nut yield (kg plant^-1) (50.13 and 47.02) indicating its relative resistance to environmental alteration. High heritability estimates coupled with high genetic gain as % of mean was observed for nut weight (34 to 99), nut yield plant^-1,nuts panicle^-1 (42.22), cashew apple weight (50.06) and nut yield plant^-1 (90.96). Hence, these traits can be easily im-proved by simple selection methods. It may be con-cluded that average nut weight, cashew apple weight and nut yield plant^-1 should be considered for improvement with simple selection in the development of better cashew types.

2 tables, 12 ref

019244   Satyanarayana P;Singh P P;Prasad R;Jitendra Kumar (Entomology Dep, Rajendra Agricultral Univ, Pusa, Samastipur-848 125, Email: psnento@gmail.com) : Screening of onion genotypes in order to identify tolerant or resistant against thrips (Thrips tabaci lindeman). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 333-7.

Thirty onion genotypes were screened for their comparative susceptibility to onion thrips under natural infestation conditions at the research farm of T.C.A. Dholi (Muzaffarpur) during the Rabi season of 2013-14. From the foregoing experimental findings, it became quite clear that Among the thirty onion genotypes evaluated under natural field condition and compared on the basis of mean number of thrips per plant, OSR-1381 suffered least due to thrips (16.65/plant) on the other hand BSRO-1236 suffered most by recording highest thrips population (56.99/plant). Only two genotype viz., OSR-1381 and OSR-1357 were identified as resistant (R) while twenty two of them showed moderately resistant reaction to T. tabaci. Six genotypes viz., BSRO- 1156, BSRO-1149, BSRO-1153, BSRO-1146, BSRO-1236 and Agrifound Light Red (C) were identified as susceptible (S) against T. tabaci. OSR-1381 and OSR-1357 showed wider leaf angle (430 and 43.80) having prostrate leaves, plant height (49.17 and 50.03 cm) with higher number of leaves (10.40 and 9.76 leaves/plant) resulting maximum neck thickness (1.07 and 1.05 cm), polar diameter (4.90 and 4.84 cm), equatorial (5.16 and 5.04 cm) harbouring less number of thrips (16.65 and 18.25 thrips/ plant) showed resistant reaction against thrips resulting higher bulb yield (250.11 and 244.40 q/ha, respectively).

3 tables, 12 ref

019243   Satyanarayana P;Singh P P;Prasad R;Jitendra Kumar (Entomology Dep, Rajendra Agricultural Univ, Pusa, Samastipur-848 125, Email: psnento@gmail.com) : Effect of different source and levels of nutrients on thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) management in onion. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 305-12.

Soil application of 50 per cent dose of N in inorganic form at two equally split dose, first at the time of planting followed by top dressing at 40 days after planting + 50 per cent N from vermicompost + RD of P₂O₅ (80 kg/ha) + K₂O (150 kg/ha) when applied in soil before planting proved highly advantageous for suppressing thrips population (26.54 thrips/plant), accelerating plant height (51.88), highest number of leaves (9.90/plant), maximum polar diameter (4.95 cm), equatorial diameter (5.10 cm), neck thickness (9.71 cm) and ultimately ensuring better harvest (184.08 q/ha). The highest benefit cost ratio (5.76:1) was recorded with recommended dose of N (120 kg/ha) in inorganic form + RD of P₂O₅ (80 kg/ha) alongwith higher dose of K₂O (150 kg/ha) followed by 50 per cent dose of N from inorganic source + 50 per cent N from vermicompost + RD of P₂O₅(80 kg/ha) + K₂O (150 kg/ha) 3.85:1 proved most profitable than that in any other treatments.

3 tables, 17 ref

019242   Satyanarayana C;Arunakumara K T (Plant Protection Dep, College of Horticulture, Bidar-585 403, Email: skchitral@rediffmail.com) : Effect of pre-exposure on host plant selection by diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella F.. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 217-22.

Series of experiments were conducted on effect of pre-exposure on host plant selection by Diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella F during 2014-15 at College of Horticulture, Bidar. Female moths laid their eggs exclusively on Chinese cabbage when presented with a choice of Chinese cabbage (var. Kukai 70) and Common Cabbage (var. Pride of India) in laboratory oviposition tests. Similarly, the gravid moths readily deposited majority of its eggs in the first few days of experiment on Chinese cabbage and deposited majority of its eggs on Cabbage much later in the experiment. In olfactometer studies P. xylostella demonstrated a preference for the volatiles emitted by Chinese cabbage with attraction of 22 adults compared to Cabbage (13 adults). When gravid females were caged with single Cabbage plants until they had accepted them for oviposition, they subsequently demonstrated a significant preference for Cabbage over Chinese - 347 - cabbage in choice tests. The cabbage plants which had previously been exposed to feeding by second instar P. xylostella larvae were significantly preferred for oviposition over undamaged Cabbage plants.

9 illus, 9 tables, 14 ref

019241   Satyanarayana C;Arunakumara K T (Plant Protection Dep, College of Horticulture, Bidar-585 403, Email: skchitral@rediffmail.com) : Evaluation of different sprayers and nozzles in okra insect pest management. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 193-8.

An experiment was conducted during 2014 at College of Horticulture, Bidar, University of Horticultural Sciences, Bagalkot, Karnataka, India to evaluate the different types of Sprayers and nozzles in the management of okra insect pests. In the early stage of crop growth, the Knapsack sprayer registered lowest leafhopper, Amrasca biguttula biguttula Ishida and whiteflies, Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) population with the highest number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit length and fruit yield. At reproductive stage of crop growth knapsack sprayer again recorded lowest fruit borer damage and highest number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit length and fruit yield which was on par with Low volume aspee bolo power sprayer. Among the different types of nozzles hollow cone nozzle was significantly superior over other types of nozzles by registering lowest leafhopper and whiteflies population and highest number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit length and fruit yield. At reproductive stage of crop growth, hollow cone was again superior over other types of nozzles in the management of fruit borers by registering lowest fruit damage and highest number of fruits per plant, fruit girth, fruit length and fruit yield.

10 tables, 10 ref