019240   Salunkhe R;Deshmukh M M;Potdukhe N R (IDE Dep, Dr. PDKV, Akola, Email: salunkhe7988@gmail.com) : Effect of different irrigation schedules on growth and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1715-20.

The expriment was conducted at the Wheat Research Unit, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth. Akola in study the effect of different irrigation schedules on growth and yield of wheat crop (veriety AKAW-4627). Irrigation was scheduled on the basis of climatological approach i.e. on IW/CPE ratios where the amount of irrigation water estimated from class -A pan evaporation data, was applied to all sides plot by water meter and pipe irrigation. The experiment was carried out in 2011-12 and 2012-13 during December to March in randomized block design with five irrigation treatments and - 346 - four replications : 1. IW/CPE=0.6 (I₁), 2. IW/CPE=0.8 (I₂), 3. IW/CPE=1.0 (I₃), 4. IW/CPE=1.2 (I₄), 5. Control treatment with six irrigations at critical growth stages of wheat (I₅). Irrigation scheduling at IW/CPE= 1.2 (I₄) recorded significantly highest grain yield 39.37 q/ha and 39.44 q/ha in 2011-12 and 2012-13 respec-tively compared to rest of treatment. Water use efficiency was recorded in treatment I₃ 0.67 q/ha-cm and 0.83 q/ha-cm in 2011-12 and 2012-13 respectively which was optimum as compared to I₁, I₂,1₄, and I5. Plant height, length of earhead and peduncle, number of effective tillers, number of grain yield per earhead, and 1000 grain weight recorded in treatment (I₄) was significantly highest over rest of the treatments.

2 illus, 4 tables, 9 ref

019239   Sahu P S;Ashwani Kumar;Khan H H (Entomology Dep, SHIATS, Allahabad-211 007, Email: pushpendrasinghsahu13@gmail.com) : Seasonal incidence and management of chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 587-9.

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season of 2015 at the central research farm of SHIATS, Allahabad. The occurrence of chilli thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis in 2015 Kharif season was commenced from 35th standard week (August third week) with an average 0.2% infestation. The chilli thrips population increased and gradually reached peak level of 5.6% infestation at 42nd standard week (October second week). Thereafter, declined trend was observed due to fall of maximum and minimum temperatures as optimum weather condition are decreasing. Two sprays revealed that all the treatments were significantly reducing the chilli thrips population. Among the pesticides evaluated, Spinosad (T₄) and Dimethoate (T₂) were superior in the management of chilli thrips. Followed by, Imidachloprid (T₇), Methomyl (T₅), Flubendamide (T₁) and Fipronil (T₆). This was followed by Cypermethrin (T₃) which was recorded as least effective treatment within the insecticide treaments. The yields among the treated treatments were significant. The highest yield was recorded in T₄ Spinosad (212.53 q/ha), followed by T₂(198.52 q/ha), T₇ (181.13 q/ha), T₅ (178.56 q/ha), T₁ (170.42 q/ha), T₆ (168.71 q/ha), T₃ (159.02 q/ha) as compared to control To (80.44 q/h). When cost benefit ratio was worked out, interesting result was achieved. Among the treatment studied, the best and most economical treatment was T₂Dimethoate (1:12.30), followed by T₄ Spinosad (1:12.29).

2 tables, 14 ref

019238   Saha S;Mandal A;Sahoo D (NO, , Fisheries Resource Management Dep, Kolkata, West-Bengal) : Study of physico-chemical parameters of three different urban pond water of Nadia district, West-Bengal, India. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2017, 5(6), 23-7.

The present study was carried out to make a comparative ecological assessment of three - 345 - urban ponds of Nabadwip at Nadia district, West-Bengal. The average value of water temperature in P-1, P-2 and P-3 ponds were 29.6, 30.0 and 29.8°C respectively, average value of water pH was the highest in the P-2 (7.33). The maximum average DO value was found in P-2 (5.67 mg l^-1), average value of free CO₂ was maximum in the P-3 (38.07 mg l^-1). The highest value of alkalinity was found in P-3 (315 mg l^-1). The maximum concentration of BOD and COD were recorded in P-3 accordingly (3.08 mg l^-1) and (75.17 mg l^-1). The highest average value of Phosphate-phosphorous was recorded in P-2 (0.24 mg l^-1) and the Nitrate-nitrogen concentration was recorded maximum in P-3 (1.48 mg l^-1). The present finding established that, the well managed pond (P-2) showed better ecological conditions compare to unmanaged ponds.

8 illus, 1 table, 37 ref

019237   Sabu S S;Kuruvila A (NO, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, Thrissur, Kerala-680 656, Email: sachuss15@gmail.com) : Price instability in black pepper: A comparative analysis of pre-liberalisation and post-liberalisation periods. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 41-9.

Black pepper as an internationally traded commodity has always been associated with price fluctuations which are influenced by numerous factors including production and consumption in India and the world, international prices, export-import policies, exchange rates and trade agreements. The present study is focused on price instability of black pepper in Indian and international markets in the pre-liberalisation and postliberalisation periods. Annual instability indices of nominal and real prices of black pepper in the domestic and international markets were computed and used to compare price instability before and after agricultural trade liberalisation in India. The study revealed that the magnitude of price instability of black pepper hasincreased significantly in Indian markets during the post-liberalisation period, whereas it has declined in the international markets. The destabilising effect of trade liberalisation on prices of black pepper was comparatively more in Indian markets as compared to the international markets. This could be attributed to the transmission of volatility from international markets to domestic markets after liberalisation, resulting in reduction in instability of international prices and a concomitant increase in instability in the domestic markets. Hence, suitable price stabilisation policies need to be implemented to safeguard the producers of black pepper in India from price fluctuations resulting from liberalisation of international trade in agricultural commodities.

7 illus, 2 tables, 9 ref

019236   Sabha K K;Najar A M;Bhat F A;Shah T H;Balkhi M H;Shafaat S (Fishery Biology Div, Faculty of Fisheries, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agri. Sciences & Tech. of, Ganderbal-190 006, Email: sabha.nissar@gmail.com) : Fishery, population characteristics and yield estimates of snow trout (Schizothorax - 344 - niger) in nigeen lake Kashmir. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 569-71.

Schizothoracids are indigenous and commercially important fish species of Kashmir. Schizothorax species usually occur in cold regions and localities having snow fed waters and are hence commonly called as snow trouts. These play an important role in Capture fishery of flat land lakes of valley especially Dal, Nigeen, Manasbal and rivers of Jhelum and Sindh. Schizothorax niger (Ale-gad) belonging to family Cyprinidae is economically most valuable and promising food fish of Kashmir. It is well established in Dal Lake and is also found in Nigeen Lake. It spawns in shallow areas of lake periphery having sand and does not perform migration for spawning purpose to adjoining streams as is done by other Schizothorax species. Length - weight relationship was different for both the sexes. Von - Bertalanffy growth equation was L_t = 43 [1 - e-^{0.4 (t - 0.05)}]. The mortality rates M, F and Z were 0.84, 0.76 and 1.6 respectively. The exploitation ratio and rate of exploitation were 0.53 and 0.43 respectively. The total annual stock, biomass and Maximum Sustainable Yield (MSY) were 0.42t, 0.84t, and 0.75t respectively. The study revealed that at present Schizothorax niger fishery in Nigeen Lake is underexploited.

2 illus, 21 ref

019235   Sabha K K;Najar A M;Bhat F A;Shah T H;Balkhi M H;Faisal R (Fishery Biology Div, Faculty of Fisheries, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agri. Sciences & Tech. of, Rangil, Ganderbal-190 006, Email: sabha.nissar@gmail.com) : Food and feeding habits of snow trout (Schizothorax niger) inhabiting nigeen lake, Kashmir. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 635-7.

Schizothoracines, the indigenous cyprinids (also called snow trouts), locally known as Alegad. They inhabit both lentic as well as lotic water bodies of Kashmir. The fish belongs to the family Cyprinidae and order Cypriniformes. Schizothoracines are highly valued fish, preferred to most other fish species. They feed on detritus, attached plant (including algal) coating of stones and rocks, and the associated invertebrate fauna. Schizothrax niger has been found to be herbivorous fish, feeding mainly on green algae, plant fragments, diatoms, detritus, unrecognizable matter (sand/silt, fish scales, ropes). The group wise index of Relative importance indicates green algae to be the dominant group followed by plant fragments, and detritus. Month-wise index of Relative importance indicates green algae to be the dominant food in the months from April- December. Lengthwise percentage of food indicates the lowest percentage with length groups 120-200 mm and highest in 340- 410 mm. Analysis of degree of fullness of stomachs indicated high feeding intensity during May-Aug while low feeding was observed in November and December.

3 tables, 13 ref

019234   Sabha K K;Najar A M;Bhat F A;Shah T H;Balkhi M H;Faisal R (Fishery Biology Div, Faculty of Fisheries, Rangil, Ganderbal-190 006, Email: sabha.nissar@gmail.com) : Reproductive biology of (Schizothorax niger) snow trout in nigeen lake Kashmir. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 623-6.

Reproductive biology of Schizothorax niger in the Nigeen Lake was conducted from December 2013- November 2014, the data was collected with the help of Cast nets that unloaded their catch at Nigeen Lake Kashmir. The sex ratio was obtained for male: female at 1:2.44. The spawning occurred once in a year with peak during March to mid-May. The size at first maturity was observed to be 14.82 cm. Absolute fecundity was estimated as 11709±8016 and relative fecundity was obtained at 4645±1804. The mean estimated size of ova during spawning was 2.5 mm. Gonado somatic index was recorded highest during February for females (15.75) and males (12.5) indicating that the fish fully matures during this month and spawns during March-May with the peak in March resulting in abrupt decrease in GSI values of the fish. Only one peak of GSI during February suggested that the fish is an annual breeder.

3 tables, 18 ref

019233   Rupak Nath;Sarma D (Fishery Science Dep, St. Anthony's College, Shillong-793 001, Email: rupaknathsac@rediffmail.com) : Ichthyo faunal diversity of the Umngot river in jaintia hills of Meghalaya. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1927-34.

Ichthyo faunal diversity in the lower stretch of Umngot River in West Jaintia Hills District of Meghalaya was studied from April 2014 to March 2015. The result of present investigation reveals the occurrence of total 24 fish species belong to 19 genera, 9 families and 6 orders from study areas. Major percentage fish species belongs to order Cypriniformes (67%) with 16 spp, followed by Siluriformes (13%) with 3 species, Channiformes (8%) with 2 spp, Perciformes (4%) 1 sp, clupeiformes (4%) 1 sp, Mastacembeliformes (4%) 1 sp. Diversity in Umngot river with the range of Shannon-Weiner H from 1.99 to 1.83 and Shannon's equitability (EH) index which was used to measure the evenness of species varied from 0.39 to 0.38 in site 1 and site 2 respectively. The Simpson's index of diversity (1-D) was high (0.93) in site-1 followed by site-2 (0.91). The Margalef index of species richness was high (2.53) in site-1 than site-2 (1.86). Important limnological pa-rameters in the study area like DO - 343 - (6.9±0.14), total alkalinity (35.0+0.40) and total Hardness (33.75±0.83) were found within the normal range, except pH which was recorded slightly acidic in reaction i.e. 6.79±0.10. The major threats against Ichthyo fauna identified in the study area are stone quarrying, pollution with mine drainage and invasion of exotic carp namely Cyprinus carpio in the river ecosystem.

2 illus, 3 tables, 13 ref

019232   Rinku;Shekhawat P S;Kumawat N;Sanwal R C (College of Agriculture, S. K. Rajasthan Agriculture Univ, Bikaner-334 006, Email: kumawatandy@gmail.com) : Influence of nitrogen levels and biofertilizers on yield, economics and nutrient uptake of pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L.) under rainfed conditions. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1839-42.

The experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2012-13. Among nitrogen doses, the application of 40 kg/ha gave significantly higher grain (2,102 kg/ha) and biological (5,615 kg/ha) yield. Similarly, N, P and K contents in grain and stover, and their uptake, were significantly higher under the same treatment. Maximum gross return (Rs 41725), net return (Rs 28813) and B : C ratio (2.23) were also with 40 kg N/ha. In case of biofertilizers, higher grain yield (2,267kg/ha), biological yield (5,903 kg/ha) and harvest index (38.36%) was obtained with Azotobacter + PSB. Maximum gross return (Rs 44,466), net return (Rs 31,483) and B : C ratio (2.42) were also observed under Azotobacter + PSB. Similarly, seed inoculation with Azotobacter + PSB significantly improved the N, P and K content in grain and stover; and their uptake as compared to rest of treatments.

2 tables, 13 ref

019231   Ravindra Kumar;Sinha A;Srivastava S;Mahajan G (Mycology and Plant Pathology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: ravindrakumarbhu@gmail.com) : Evaluation of biocontrol potential of some fungal decomposers of Sesbania aculeata L. green manure against some soil-borne plant pathogens. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 37-45.

Soil borne phytopathogens are one of the major concern of today's agricultural system. In the present study, dominant fungal decomposers were selected and their potential as biological control agents was evaluated against some soil borne plant pathogens. Effect of green manure amendment on the sclerotia viability of three soil-borne plant pathogens viz., Sclerotium rolfsii, Rhizoctonia solani and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum, effect of fungal decomposers on soil-borne phytopathogens in dual culture, effect of volatile and non-volatile metabolites of dominant fungal decomposers on the radial growth and sclerotia production of test pathogens were evaluated. Green manure amendment resulted in reduced in sclerotia of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum by 40, 36 and 36.50%, respectively. In dual culture, the maximum growth inhibition of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum with Trichoderma harzianum were 49.95, 47.62 and 57.83%, respectively. The maximum inhibition of S. rolfsii and S. sclerotiorum caused by the volatile metabolites produced by Trichoderma harzianum were 56.64 and 43.95%, whereas the maximum inhibition of R. solani was caused by volatile metabolites of Penicillium citrinum (44.96%). The maximum inhibition of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum through non-volatile metabolites of Trichoderma harzianum were 51.04, - 342 - 57.30 and 49.10%, respectively. The maximum reduction in sclerotia of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum with Trichoderma harzianum were 86.44, 88.54 and 88.20% respectively, under dual culture after 21 days of incubation. The maximum reduction in sclerotia of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum with Trichoderma harzianum were 95.42, 93.60 and 91.32%, respectively, under the effect of volatile metabolites after 21 days of incubation. The maximum reduction in sclerotia of S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum with Trichoderma harzianum were 87.46, 79.74 and 85.10% respectively, under the effect of non-volatile metabolites after 21 days of incubation. All eight fungal decomposers effectively contribute in controlling the soil borne phytopathogens. Overall T. harzianum, Aspergillus niger and Penicillium citrinum proved as potential bio-control agents against all soil borne plant pathogens viz., S. rolfsii, R. solani and S. sclerotiorum.

4 illus, 4 tables, 35 ref

019230   Raut V M;Kanitkar S;Borawake A;Meena N L; Singh V (NO, Kan biosys Pvt. Ltd., Kanitkar Path, F. C. Road, Pune-411 004, Email: info@kanbiosys.com) : Bio-efficacy of milastin-k (Bacillus subtilis-KTBS 1015) for management of early blight disease of tomato caused by Alternaria solani. Pestology 2017, 41(1), 31-41.

Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentunt Mill) is the most popular vegetable crop grown in India as well as in the world which is attacked by several serious diseases. Bacillus subtilis has been used as biological control against plant bacterial diseases. Hence, a field bio-efficacy study was undertaken by spraying Milastin-K (Bacillus subtilis KTSB-1015 1.5% A.S.) @ 1.0 and 2.0 ml/L and popular chemical fungicide SAFF (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%) individually and their combinations at 60,75 and 90 days after transplantation for control of early blight disease of tomato. Results compiled indicated that Milastin-K alone at 1.0 and 2.0 ml/L gave about 15 to 20% reduction in early blight incidence with 35.09 and 43.87% higher yield than control treatment. Similarly, SAFF + Milastin @ 2.0 ml/L reduced early blight disease by 47.31% and significantly increased in plant height (71.05%), number of branches/plant (142.85%), days to maturity (18.64%), no. of fruits/plant (94.74%), fresh fruit weight/plant (159.65%), 100 fruit weight (33.33%) and yield (159.63%) over control treatment. SAFF + Milastin K @ 1.0 and 2.0 ml/L gave significantly higher yield of 21.8% and 34.52% respectively over SAFF treatment. Likewise, spraying of Milastin alone, and along with SAFF and other fungicides did not show any phyto-toxic effect on tomato. Hence, Milastin-k a biological fungicide fits well in integrated disease and nutrient management of tomato crop in India.

3 illus, 3 tables, 27 ref

019229   Rao C S;Indoria A K;Sharma K L (NO, ICAR-Central Research Institute for Dryland Agriculture, Hyderabad-500 059, Email: akumar.indoria@crida.in) : Effective management practices for improving soil organic matter for increasing crop productivity in rainfed agroecology of India. Curr Sci 2017, 112(7), 1497-1504.

To meet the requirement of increasing demand for food and fodder and to ensure food security, it is important to increase the production potential through soil health improvement in rainfed agroecological regions besides the irrigated regions. Degrading soil health because of decrease in soil organic carbon (SOC) and resultant decline in overall soil fertility in rainfed areas is a major threat to sustenance of crop and fodder productivity. In view of the importance of soil organic matter (SOM), and its close relationship with soil health and crop production, its role in carbon sequestration and nutrient cycling has gained much attention in the last few years. Restoration of SOM contents in the soil to optimal levels will not only improve the soil health of rainfed agroecosystem, but will also significantly contribute towards boosting crop production. In this article, we have critically reviewed the impacts of different crop management practices on SOC content and its impact on soil health and crop productivity in rainfed agroecological regions of the country.

1 illus, 1 table, 63 ref

019228   Rambabu E;Reddy K R;Kamala V;Saidaiah P; Pandravada S R (NO, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: ramboviru@gmail.com) : Correlation of path analysis for quality, yield and yield components in yardlong bean (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.ssp. sesquipedalis Verdc.. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1655-61.

This experiment was conducted on yardlong bean to identify the characters which mainly contributing to the pod yield. Fourty one genotypes of yardlong bean were evaluated during kharif of 20l3 and observations recorded on growth, quality and pod yield parameters. Correlation study revealed that pod yield per plant (g) had significant and positive association with traits like plant height (0.2209,0.3281), number of primary branches per plant (0.6797,0.9947), terminal leaf length (0.2018,0.3008), length of harvesting time (0.3178,0.4891), length of cluster stalk (0.8112, 1.0101), number of clusters per plant (0.7839,1.0856), numbers of pods per cluster (0.8358, 1.0565), number of pods per plant (0.8427,1.0573), pod length (0.1943, 0.2315), pod girth (0.8370,0.9990), seed number per pod (0.2494, 0.3642) and 100 seed weight (0.2658, 0.3037) at phenotypic and genotypic levels respectively. Path coefficient analysis showed that length of cluster stalk (0.8242) and pod girth (0.5550) at genotypic level exhibited high positive direct effect on pod yield per plant. These characters also had significant positive correlation with pod yield per plant indicating that direct selection based on these traits would result in improved pod yield per plant.

2 tables, 15 ref

019227   Rakesh Kumar;Yhokha K;Hangsing N;Deka B C (Crop Research Div, ICAR RC Eastern Region, Patna Bihar-800 014, Email: rakeshbhu08@gmail.com) : Effect of sowing dates on early maturing Indian mustard varieties (Brassica juncea L.) for enhancing croping intensity and productivity under the foot hill condition of Nagaland. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 2005-9.

Field experiments were carried out during the rabi season of 2013-14 to evaluate the produc-tion potential of newly released 10 nos. of early maturing Indian mustard varieties (IARI New Delhi) including 03 local check (TS-36, TS-38 and TS-67) with three sowing date after rice harvested. The main idea of the study is to screen out the high yielding early maturing mustard varieties under the - 340 - different planting time, so as to encourage and arouse the farmer's interest in its commercial cultivation. Results revealed that significant variations was observed in terms of growth and yield attributes of all the early maturing mustard varieties in 1st date of sowing as compared to 2nd and 3rd date sown crop, which led to significantly higher seed yield but re-verse trend was followed in local checks (TS-36, TS-38 and TS-67) under the late sown condition.

2 tables, 5 ref

019226   Rajkhowa D J;Sarma A K;Mahanta K;Saikia U S; Krishnappa R (Natural Resource Management Div, ICAR Research Complex for NEH Region, Umiam-793 103, Email: djrajkhowa@gmail.com) : Effect of vermicompost on greengram productivity and soil health under hilly ecosystem of North East India. J envir Biol 2017, 38(1), 15-19.

The study aimed at evaluating of an appropriate nutrient management practice for increasing greengram productivity, improving soil health, and thus bringing sustainability to pulse production system in the hilly terrains of North East India. A field experiment was conducted during 2013 and 2014 to evaluate the effect of vermicompost, Rhizobium and lime in different combination with fertilizers on greengram productivity and soil health under terrace land situation of Meghalaya. Treatments comprised of recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF), 50% RDF + Rhizobium, 50% RDF + Rhizobium + lime 4 q ha^-1, 50% RDF + Vermicompost (VC) 2.5 t ha^-1, 50% RDF + lime 4 q ha^-1 and 50 % RDF + VC 2.5 t ha^-1 + lime 4 q ha^-1. Nutrient management practices significantly influenced the yield components, yield, soil nutrient status, as well as microbial population in soils. Integrated use of 50% RDF + VC 2.5 t ha^-1+ lime 4 q ha^-1 resulted in significantly higher yield of greengram (10 q ha^-1) and improved the soil organic carbon (2.5 %), bacterial and fungal population, pH and available N, P₂O₅ and K₂O compared to recommended dose of fertilizer applied alone. The results of the study indicated that the integrated use of 50 % RDF with vermicompost 2.5 t ha^-1 and lime 4 q ha^-1 is profitable for enhancing greengram productivity and improving soil health under hilly ecosystem of North East India.

3 illus, 1 table, 28 ref

019225   Rajesh D P;Murthy A S M;Anjanayappa H N; Benakappa S;Naveen Kumar;Naik B T A S K (Fish Res. and Management Dep, Karnataka Vet., Ani. and Fisheries Sci. Uni., College of Fisheries, Mangalore, Email: d.prajesh@yahoo.com) : Length-weight relationship and relative condition factor of Cociella crocodila - 339 - (Tilesius,1812) from mangalore coast. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(1), 57-9.

The length-weight relationship of Cociella crocodila was estimated and corresponding equation was W=0.0032 L^3.2862 for male and W=0.003 L^3.2498 for female. Analysis of covariance showed that there is no significant difference in length-weight relationship between the male and female. Hence, the pooled equation for both sexes was obtained at W=0.0031L^3.2708. The fluctuation in the relative condition factor (K_a) value with respect to size indicated that condition of fish more or less showed an increasing trend with size of fish. The seasonal fluctuations in the relative condition factor of both the sexes could be attributed to the sexual cycle, food intake and environmental factor.

3 tables, 5 ref

019224   Rajender Kumar;Deshwal H L;Mehra K;Singh V (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner, Email: keshav.mehra35@gmail.com) : Screening of different fenugreek varieties against Acyrthosiphon pisum (harris). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 105-7.

Screening of ten fenugreek varieties was investigated against aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) at Agricultural Research S tation, Bikaner during Rabi, 2014-15. Fenugreek varieties RMt-143, UM-330 and RMt-305 were found least susceptible while, varieties RMt-361, RMt-351, RMt-1 and UM-202 were found as moderately susceptible against aphid. However, RMt-303, RMt-365 and UM-354 were emerged as highly susceptible against aphid. The days to 50 percent flowering was positively correlated with peak aphid population, whereas, pods per plant, seeds per pod and plant height had negative correlation.

2 tables, 8 ref

019223   Rajender Kumar;Deshwal H L;Mehra K;Singh V (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Swami Keshwanand Rajasthan Agricultural Univ, Bikaner, Email: keshav.mehra35@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of insecticides and botanicals against pea aphid acyrthosiphon pisum (harris) on fenugreek. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 71-4.

Six chemical insecticides and three botanicals were evaluated against aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) on fenugreek at Agricultural Research Station, Bikaner during Rabi, 2014-15. Out of these treatments imidacloprid (0.005%) proved to be the most effective treatment followed by thiamethoxam (0.005%) and acetamiprid (0.004%). The next effective treatments were oxy-demeton methyl (0.03%), profenophos (0.05%) and cypermethrin (0.004%) ranked in middle order in their efficacy. The treatment of neem leaf extract (5%) proved to be least effective followed by azadirachtin and NSKE against aphid. The maximum seed yield (11.90 q ha^-1) was obtained in the treatment of imidacloprid followed by thiamethoxam (11.55 q ha^-1) and acetamiprid (11.30 q ha^-1) whereas, it was minimum in neem leaf extract (8.05 q ha^-1). The maximum percent avoidable losses (36.97 %) was recorded in untreated plots followed by neem leaf extract (32.35 %) and azadirachtin (29.41 %) and percent increase in yield over control was maximum (58.66%) in the plots treated with imidacloprid (0.005%). The highest incremental benefit cost ratio of 23.94 was obtained from imidacloprid treated plots followed by thiamethoxam (23.50) and cypermethrin (22.42) while, it was minimum (2.20) in neem leaf extract.

2 tables, 16 ref

019222   Raj Kumar;Singh P S (Entomology and Agricultural Zoology Dep, IBanaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: pss_ento@yahoo.co.in) : Screening of certain mungbean, Vigna radiata (L.) wilczek genotypes against spotted pod borer and pod bugs. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 595-7.

Twenty genotypes of mungbean were screened for resistance against spotted pod borer and pod bugs under field conditions during Kharif, 2015. On the basis of larval population densities of spotted pod borer, genotype ML 2410 (3.38 larvae/ 5 plants) had maximum infestation and genotype PM 10-18 (1.13 larvae /5plant) showed minimum infestation. Pod bugs population was recorded to be maximum on genotype LGG 460 - 338 - (3.15 pod bugs/5 plant) and minimum in genotype PM 10-18 (1.38 pod bugs/5 plant). Damage caused by pod borer was recorded maximum on genotype LGG 460 (15.93%), while minimum damage on genotype PM 10-18 (9.50%). Pod damage due to pod bugs was recorded maximum on genotype LGG 460 (16.47%) and minimum on PM 10-18 (7.83%). Yield obtained from different genotypes showed that genotype PM 10-18 (7.73 q/ha) produced maximum yield while the lowest yield (2.47q/ha) recorded from genotype LGG 460.

3 tables, 5 ref

019221   Rai V L;Srivastava P;Bisht K;Mishra V K (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, G. B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: vijaylaxmi31981@gmail.com) : Diversity and relative abundance of pollinating insects visiting litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) inflorescence under tarai agro-climatic condition. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 233-9.

The importance of pollination services for insect pollinated crop such as litchi, mango, citrus etc. cannot be neglected. Pollination of crop plant is, in many cases, a major requirement for achieving sufficient crop set. The litchi inflorescence is visited by a number of insects during the flowering stage (March-April). A total of 12 insect species were recorded visiting litchi flowersbelonging to order Hymenoptera, Diptera and Coleoptera. The present study is carried out to determine the relative abundance of litchi pollinators and their foraging activity for a period of two subsequent years (2009-10 and 2010-1 1) in litchi orchard of Pantnagar. The data revealed that the initiation of pollinators visit on litchi flowers started just after opening of flowers in the first week of March and maximum activity was noticed in the mid March during the both year. The highest average number 13.68 syrphid flies/panicle/5 minute was recorded on 15th March (year 2010) and 13.52 syrphids/panicle/5 min. on 19th March (year 2011) in south direction. Among Apisspp., the highest activity of Apisdorsata (3.30 and 3.22 foragers/panicle/5 min.), A. mellifera(2.92 and 2.98 foragers/panicle/5 min.), A. ceranaindica (1.24 and 1.38 foragers /panicle/5 min.) and non-Apis bees (3.62 and 3.72 foragers/panicle/5 min.) were recorded around mid March in south direction in both year.

2 illus, 5 tables, 22 ref

019220   Rahul Kumar;Ram Keval;Mishra V K;Bisht K (Entomology and Agricultural Zoology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: rahulentoagri@gmail.com) : Field assessment of long duration pigeonpea genotypes against lepidopterous pest complex. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 321-4.

An experiment was conducted to field assessment of Eighteen genotypes of pigeonpea for their resistance/ tolerance to Lepidopterous pest complex under - 337 - natural infestation in pesticides free open field. While testing genotypes of pigeonpea resistance against Lepidopterous at Varanasi region during kharif 2013-14 and 2014-15. The result revealed that the percent pod and grain damage were found significantly highest in genotype IPA 7- 10,MAL13 (ch) (13.00%, 5.89 %) and IPA 7-10 (9.67%,4.90%) respectively. While lowest pod and grain damage observed in genotype KA 12-2 (6% and1.85%) and (4%, 1.07%) respectively, during both the years. The per cent pod damage and grain damage by Lepidopterous pest complex in the genotypes screened was found that pod damage and grain damage of KA 12-2 had rating of 4 and 5 respectivelyon the scale during both the year which depicts it is least susceptible than local check, `Bahar'. The grain yield was observed highest in genotype KA 12-2 (1960 kg/ha and 1785 kg/ha) respectively, during both year. This observation reveals that KA 12-2 is most resistant genotype having highest yield.

2 tables, 15 ref

019219   Raghavendra K V;Chinniah C;Ramaraju K;Muthiah C;Balakrishnan K (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Agricultural College & Research Institute, (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Un, Madurai-625 104, Email: raghavendrakv70324@gmail.com) : Influence of weather parameter on population fluctuation an seasonal abundance of two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch in jasmine (Jasminum sambac Ait.) ecosystem. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 383-7.

An investigation was carried out to determine the seasonal abundance and impact of weather factors on fluctuation of two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch in Jasmine (Gundu malligai) ecosystem during January 2015 - December 2015. The mite population crossed its threshold level during 8th standard week (3rd week of February) and reached its first peak during 21st standard week (4th week of May) and second peak during 28th standard week (2nd week of July) recording 34.69 and 50.56 mites/2cm² leaf area respectively. The study also revealed that among the weather parameters, the maximum and minimum temperatures showed significant positive relationship (r = 0.87 and 0.82 respectively), while morning relative humidity alone had significant negative relationship (r = - 0.76) with T. urticae, whereas evening relative humidity as well as rainfall exhibited non significant negative relationship (r = - 0.23; r = -0.12) with T. urticae in Jasmine ecosystem. Therefore it may be interpreted that the higher temperature together with lower relative humidity and scanty rainfall is congenial weather conditions for population upsurge of T. urticae in Jasmine ecosystem.

2 illus, 3 tables, 14 ref

019218   Raghavendra K V;Chinniah C;Ramaraju K;Muthiah C;Balakrishnan K (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Agricultural College & Research Institute (Tamil Nadu Agricultural Uni, Madurai-625 104, Email: raghavendrakv70324@gmail.com) : Seasonal incidence and influence of - 336 - weather factors on population dynamics of two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae koch in rose (Rosa sp.) Ecosystem. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 359-63.

The study conducted to assess the seasonal incidence and influence of weather parameters on population dynamics of two spotted spider mite, T. urticae Koch in Rose ecosystem during January 2015 - December 2015 revealed that the mite population started crossing its threshold level from 4th (fourth week of January) standard week and reached its first peak during the 18th (first week of May) standard week and recorded 38.86 mites/2cm² and second peak during the 28th (third week of July) standard week and recorded 52.01 mites/2cm² leaf area. It is also evident that among the weather parameters, the maximum (r = 0.85) and minimum temperatures (r = 0.79) had a significant positive correlation while the morning (r = - 0.71) and evening relative humidity (r = -0.27) exhibited significant negative correlation and the rainfall (r = - 0.19) showed non significant negative correlation with two spotted spider mite, T. urticae Koch population in Rose ecosystem. From the present investigation, it is construed that the higher temperature coupled with lower relative humidity and scanty rainfall is congenial for population buildup of two spotted spider mite, T. urticae Koch in Rose ecosystem.

2 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

019217   Puneeth Raj M S;Vyakaranahal B S (Seed Science & Technology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: rajpuneeth@gmail.com) : Effect of micronutrients and integrated nutrient treatment on seed yield and straw yield in oat cultivar (Avena sativa L.) OS-6. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1790-4.

The field experiment was carried out dur-ing rabi season of 2012 to assess the effect of organ-ics and micronutrients on seed yield and straw yield of oat (Avena sativa L.). The experiment consists 12 treatment combinations of treatments: Fertilizer: F₁-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha, F₂-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + FYM 10t/ ha, F₃-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, 1,0 per ha + Vermicompost 5 t/ha. Micronutrients were M₁ -Magnesium sulfate @ 5 kg/ha, M₂-Ferrous sul-fate @ 5 kg/ha, M₃-Copper sulfate @ 5 kg/ha, M₄-Zinc sulfate @ 15 kg/ha. Results revealed that there was a significant higher for the application of 100:60:40 N, P_2.O₅, K₂O per ha + Vermicompost 5 t/ha seed yield (18.75 q/ha), straw yield (69.41 q/ha), followed by 100:60:40 N,P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + 2 inc sulfate @ 15 kg/ha. T₁ showed significantly lower seed and straw yield.

2 tables, 10 ref

019216   Puneeth Raj M S;Vyakaranahal B S (Seed Science & Technology Dep, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad-580 005, Email: rajpuneeth@gmail.com) : Effect of micronutrients and integrated nutrient treatment on seed germination and vigor in oat cultivar (Avena sativa L.) OS-6. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1785-9.

The field experiment was carried out during rabi season of 2012 and 2013 to assess the effect of organics and micronutrients on seed germination and vigor of oat (Avena sativa L.) OS-6. The experiment consists of 12 treatment combinations of treatments: Fertilizers were: F₁-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O) per ha, F₂-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + FYM lOt/ha, F₃-100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + Vermicompost 5t/ha. Micronutrients were M₁-Magnesium sulfate @ 5 kg/ ha, M₂-Ferrous sulfate @ 5 kg/ha, M₃-Copper sulfate @ 5 kg/ha, M₄-Zinc sulfate @ 15 kg/ha. Results revealed that there was significant higher seed germination for the application of 100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + Vermicompost 5 t/ha (95.44%) and vigor (3082), followed by 100:60:40 N, P₂O₅, K₂O per ha + FYM @ 15 kg/ha. T₁ showed significantly lower seed germination (92.97%) and vigor (2730) among organic application likewise application of micronutrients and interaction effect has been explained in results.

2 tables, 11 ref

019215   Premalatha K;Chinniah C (Entomology Dep, TNAU, Coimbatore-641 003) : Evolving an integrated management strategy for effective suppression of mite pests in infesting tomato. J Ent Zool Stud 2017, 5(6), 38-42.

Two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch. is one of the major pests of tomato in south India. The use of various synthetic chemicals for the control of this pest has lead to various environmental hazards. Botanical insecticides have long been augmented as a feasible alternate strategy for pest management because plant derivatives are safer, specific in action, biodegradable and potentially suitable for use in integrated pest management programmes. The commonly available plant derivatives such as V. negundo (10%), O. sanctum (10%), C. colocynthis (10%), A. calamus (10%) and among the oil formulations rosemary oil (3%), neem oil (3%), citronella oil (3%), lemon grass oil (3%) were integrated as one of the components. The popular acaricide (Fenpyroximate 5.0 EC) was used as a standard check for comparison of the relative efficacy of the treatments. The formulations were evaluated for mortality percentage of egg and adults of red spider mites under field condition. Among the plant derivatives, the O. sanctum (10%), V. negundo (10%) and A. calamus (10%) were found more promising with maximum percent reduction of eggs (72.36%, 72.20% and 72.00%) and mites (73.62%, 73.41% and 73.20%) over untreated check., coupled with least mean number of eggs (8.76, 8.81 and 8.88) and mites (7.11, 7.17 and 7.23) respectively, which were statistically on par in their - 335 - efficacy, followed by rosemary oil(3%) which recorded a mean reduction of eggs (70.10%) and mites (71.9%), neem oil (3%) with the reduction of eggs (68.41%) and mites (69.55%). The remaining plant derivatives show moderate effect on two spotted spider mite.

1 illus, 2 tables, 34 ref

019214   Prathapan K D;Balan A P (College of Agriculture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Vellayani P.O., Trivandrum-695 522, Email: prathapankd@gmail.com) : Sastroides besucheti Medvedev (coleoptera: chrysomelidae: galerucinae) is a pest of nutmeg, Myristica fragrans Houtt. (myristicaceae). J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 87-9.

The leaf beetle, Sastroides besucheti Medvedev (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Galerucinae), is reported as a pest of nutmeg, Myristica fragrans Houtt. (Myristicaceae), in India for the first time. Massive infestation leads to total defoliation of trees.

1 illus, 13 ref

019213   Pramoda Malli G J;Reddy D R K;Ranjan R (NO, Regional Research Centre, CIFA, Vijayawad-521 120, Email: gjpramodamalli@gmail.com) : Evaluation of Acetes indicus meal as replacement of fish meal in Litopenaeus vannamei diets reared under varying water salinities. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 617-22.

The Pacific White shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei has become the main crustacean species produced through aquaculture, with production exceeding that of the black tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon (FAO, 2007; Briggs et al., 2004; Liao and Chien, 2011). L.vannamei offers numerous advantages over P. monodon for the Asian shrimp farmer. Acetes indicus meal, (AI) and Fish meal (FM) - 334 - were used at three different protein levels (25%, 30% and 35%). Studies were conducted to evaluate the replacement of fish meal with Acetes indicus meal at three different salinities 5ppt, 15ppt and 30ppt salinities. Survival rates were best in shrimps fed on FM30 and FM35, which showed 78% survival rate at 5ppt salinity, FM35 showed 88% survival rate at 15ppt salinity and FM30 and FM35 showed 85% survival rate at 30ppt salinity at the end of the experiment. The shrimps fed with AI25 and AI30 diets showed the least survival rate (73-82%). The highest growth performance of 11.05g was recorded for treatment AI30 and lowest 10.05g recorded for the FM25 at 5ppt salinity. Highest growth performance of 12.01g was recorded for AI30 and lowest 10.25g for the FM25 at 15ppt. In 30ppt highest growth performance of 12.22g was recorded for AI30 and lowest 10.25g for the FM25. There showed no bigger difference in growth performance of shrimps fed with Acetes indicus meal and Fish meal with three different protein levels (25%, 30% and 35%). It can be concluded that Acetes indicus meal can be included in the diets of L. vannamei up to 35% protein inclusion for the total replacement of fish meal.

9 tables, 20 ref

019212   Prakash S;Anitha P;Giridharan M P;Rajagopalan A;Rao G V S (NO, Kerala Agricultural Univ, College of Agriculture, Padannakkad-671 314, Email: anitha.coa@gmail.com) : Impact of seasons and pinching on growth and flowering in african marigold (Tagetes erecta L.). J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 50-4.

Two varieties of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) were evaluated for three seasons from 2014 to 2015 to study the effect of season and pinching on growth and yield parameters of African marigold. The growth characters studied were plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, leaf area, chlorophyll content and total biomass. The yield parameters studied included days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, days to first harvest, flower weight, number of flowers per plant, flower yield per plant and duration of flowering. The analysis of variance revealed highly significant difference between pinched and non pinched plants for characters like plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, leaf area and total biomass. High variability was also found for yield parameters like days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, days to first harvest, and flower yield per plant, indicating that pinching had significant positive effect on growth, flowering and yield of African marigold. High variability was also found among different seasons in the growth and yield parameters studied. Plant height, leaf area, and total biomass were significantly high in S2 (monsoon); days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, and days to first harvest were significantly low in S3 (post monsoon); whereas, number of flowers per plant, and duration of flowering were significantly high in S1 (pre monsoon)

3 tables, 10 ref

019211   Prajwal S;Vasudevan V N;Sathu T;Irshad A; Nayankumar S R;Pame K (Livestock Products Technology Dep, CVAS, Mannuthy, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, Kerala) : Antibiotic residues in food animals: causes and health effects. Pharma Innovation 2017, 6(12), 1-4.

Administration of antimicrobials to food animals for treatment, prophylaxis and as growth promotors results in deposition of their residues in various organs and tissues. Consumption of these residues through meat and meat products may cause direct and/or indirect toxicity in consumers and results in failure of treatment due to development of resistant microorganisms. Withdrawal periods should be strictly followed and rules pertaining to antimicrobial residues should be rigorously enforced to make the meat safe for human consumption.

2 tables, 24 ref

019210   Pradeep Kumar;Bajia R;Bairwa B (Entomology & Agricultural Zoology Dep, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: bajiaento@gmail.com) : Effect of abiotic and biotic factors on mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.) population under mustard ecosystem. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1913-17.

Field experiment was carried out during 2011-2012 on the effect of abiotic and biotic factors on aphid population under mustard agro eco-sys-tem. The results revealed that the occurrence of aphid population starts from January 21, 2012 with 21.71 aphids per 10 cm terminal shoot and Coccinellids population was recorded 1.2 per plant. The aphid population reached to its peak recording 138.51 aphids per 10 cm terminal shoot on February 12,2012 and the Coccinellids population was recorded to be 3.73 per plant on February 28, 2012. Thereafter, a decrease in aphid population (14.52 aphids per 10 cm terminal shoot). The correlation analysis revealed that maximum and minimum temperature have negative correlation with aphid population, whereas positive correlation was observed with relative humidity. Sunshine hours and coccinellides (biotic factor) population have negative - 333 - correlation at 0.05 level.

4 tables, 11 ref

019209   Porika H;Vijayakumar R M;Soorianathasundaram K (Fruit Crops Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-641 003, Email: harikanthporika@gmail.com) : Effect of pruning on yield and quality attributes of grapes cv red globe under Coimbatore conditions. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1988-92.

Effect of pruning on yield and quality of grapes cv Red Globe was studied during 2012-2013. The vines were pruned at four different levels in a randomized block design with five replications. Yield attributes such as number of bunches / vine, average bunch weight, yield / vine, yield / vine were analyzed. Results revealed that, maximum number of bunches / vine (26.20 and 32.00), yield / vine (18.85 and 24.86 kg / vine) respectively, was observed when all the canes pruned to 6 bud level either in winter or summer season crops, where as the average bunch weight (749.92 and 809.81 g) and cumulative yield / vine / year (38.20 kg) was recorded in vines pruned for 50% of canes to 2 bud level and 50% of canes to 6 bud level in both winter and summer seasons crops. Results among quality attributes revealed that, all the vines which were pruned at 2 bud level during winter and summer season crops registered highest TSS (16.25°Brix and 17.82 °Brix), TSS / acid ratio (31.60 and 35.95), lower titrable acidity (0.51 and 0.49%), whereas, the maximum reducing sugars (13.91 and 15.65%), total sugars (15.26 and 17.24%) and sugar-acid ratio (30.11 and 34.17) was observed in vines pruned to 50% of the canes for vegetative growth and 50% of the canes for crop load in both winter and summer seasons respectively, considering the performance in both seasons among different pruning intensities. This study suggests that pruning 50% of the canes for vegetative growth and remaining 50% of canes for crop yield in both seasons were found to be better. Among two seasons, summer season crop showed better performance than winter season crop.

2 illus, 3 tables, 17 ref

019208   Porika H;Vijayakumar R M;Soorianathasundaram K (Fruit Crops Dep, Tamil Nadu Agricultural Univ, Coimbatore-03, Email: harikanthporika@gmail.com) : Severity of pruning on vegetative and fruiting attributes of grapes (Vitis vinifera L.) cv red globe for aiming winter crop. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1983-7.

The effect of pruning severity on vegetative and fruiting attributes of grapes cv Red Globe for aiming winter season crop was studied during June, 2012. The vines were pruned at four different levels in a randomized block design with five replications. Results revealed that, all the vines which were pruned at 2 bud level registered lesser number of days for bud sprouting (14.80 days), flowering (28.40 days), flowering to last harvest (93.00 days), the maximum weight of pruned material (1.25 kg/vine) and shoot length at 5th, 10th and 15th (14.12 cm, 36.57 cm and 64.47 cm, respectively) leaf stages. Whereas, the total leaf area per shoot (2733.70 cm²), internodal length at 4th-5th (3.90 cm) and 5th-6th (4.36 cm) and cane diameter (9.55 cm) were recorded in vines pruned for 50% of canes to 2 bud level and 50% of canes to 6 bud level. The maximum number of bunches/vine (26.20), yield/vine (18.85 kg/vine) was observed when all the canes pruned to 6 bud level, where as the average bunch weight (749.92 g) was recorded in vines pruned for 50% of canes to 2 bud level and 50% of canes to 6 bud level. The berry traits such as number of berries per bunch (178.70), berry weight (8.04 g), berry diameter (23.14 mm) and berry volume (7.79 cm³) were significantly superior in vines pruned for 50% of canes to 2 bud level and 50% of canes to 6 bud level. It was revealed that pruning 50% of the canes for - 332 - vegetative growth and remaining 50% of canes for fruit yield was found to be better for berry traits and bunch weight where as pruning to 6 bud level for 100% was found to be better for yield traits whereas for vegetative characters pruning all the canes to 2 bud level (100%) for vegetative growth was found to be better.

5 tables, 13 ref

019207   Pedda Ghouse Peera S K;Balasubramaniam P; Mahendran P P (Agricultural College, Acharya N. G. Ranga Agricultural Univ, Bapatla, Guntur-522 101, Email: ghouse.agri@gmail.com) : Effect of fly ash and silicate solubilizing bacteria on yield and silicon uptake of rice in cauvery delta zone. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1966-71.

A field experiment was conducted in sandy loam soils to study the effect of silicon on yield and uptake of rice (var BPT 5204) during kharif season of 2010-11 by taking the treatment combinations based on graded levels of Fly Ash (FA), Silicate Solubilizing Bacteria (SSB) and Farm Yard Manure (FYM) at fixed fertilizer schedule. The experimental soil (0-15 cm) had pH 7.22 ; organic C 1.4% ; available Si 66.0 mg kg^-1; available N 266.0 kg ha^-1; available P 14.42 kg ha^-1 and available K 107.50 kg ha^-1. The results of graded levels of FA show that all the growth and yield attributes were significantly influenced by silicon uptake. The mean silicon uptake at panicle initiation, straw and grain at harvest varied from 53.8-98.7, 105.5-197.2 and 21.4-62.3 kg ha^-1 respectively, in rice. Number of filled grains per panicle and grain yield displayed conspicuous relationships with content of Si in grains. The highest mean grain yield of 3622 kg ha^-1 was recorded by the addition of SSB + FYM followed by FYM (3530 kg ha^-1), SSB (3310 kg ha^-1) and control (3240 kg ha^-1). The combined application of 25 t ha^-1 FA with SSB + FYM was recorded the highest grain yield of 3710 kg ha^-1 which was 16.3% more over yield of control. The results further show that 25 t ha^-1 FA and SSB + FYM have been proved to be superior treatments for best management of silicon in coastal loamy sand soils under irrigated rice ecosystem.

5 tables, 10 ref

019206   Patil S;Patil N S;Patil B C (Plant Physiology and Biochemistry Div, Indian Institute of Horticultural Research, Bengaluru-560 089, Email: patil4033@gmail.com) : Influence of plant architecture on morphological, biophysical parameters and yield of cotton genotypes. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1808-12.

A field experiment was conducted during kharif season of 2014 under rainfed conditions to study the productivity potential, physiological and biophysical basis of yield variation of different plant types in cotton genotypes. The experiment consists of twelve cotton genotypes with different spacings such as compact (60 x 30 cm), Semi-compact (90 x 15 cm), Normal (90 x 30 cm), Hybrids (90 x 60 cm) laid out in randomized block design with three replications on medium black soil. Based on the result obtained from the experiment, the compact genotype DSC-99 recorded significantly higher cotton yield of 1601 kg/ ha, harvest index (38.90), Leaf area index (1.29), moderate total dry weight (40.25), photosynthesis (17.66), stomatal conductance (0.24), specific leaf weight (4.08) and leaf area (11.59) as compared to normal genotype 676 kg/ha. Compact genotypes have occupied more number of plants as compared to other plant types lead to resistance to pest and diseases ultimately gives higher seed cotton yield per ground area.

2 tables, 16 ref

019205   Patil N B;Sreenivas A G;Prabhuraj A;Jadav K (NO, College of Agriculture, UAS, Raichur, Email: patil2850@gmail.com) : Larval movement of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) under mosaic or mixed refuge patterns on Bt cotton. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1708-14.

As an alternative to structured refuge concept, seed mix refuge or Refuge in Bag (RIB) may become effective strategy which is still under experimentation. Under such mosaic conditions concerns exist regarding bollworm infestation, larval movement between Bt and non-Bt plants and yield parameters in a seed mix field. Therefore an experiment was conducted at the Department of Agricultural Entomology and Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), University of Agricultural Sciences, Raichur, Karnataka. Significantly more number of larvae were recorded on top of the canopy by registering 2.20 and 2.60 larvae in treatments T₂ (1 non Bt plant sur-rounded by 24 Bt plants) and T₄ (All non Bt), respectively. At both 24 and 48 hours after release where larvae preferred to stay in the top portion of canopy indicating least downward movement on non Bt plants compared to larvae released on Bt plants. Frequent movement, potentially within and between plants, implies that larvae may be able to detect and avoid the Bt toxin. These behaviors, coupled with temporal and spatial variability of Bt toxin expression in Bt cotton, can result in a proportion of the population becoming established. Non overlapping of cotton foliage at 60 DAS can also be reason for lower larval movement.

4 tables, 8 ref

019204   Patel H A;Raj A D (Agronomy Dep, N. M. College of Agriculture, Navsari Agricultural Univ, Navsari, Gujarat) : Nutrient content as well as uptake of summer sesame as affected by nitrogen, phosphorus and biofertilizers under South Gujarat condition. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 1-4.

The investigation entitled, "Nutrient content as well as nutrient uptake of summer sesame as affected by nitrogen, phosphorus and biofertilizers under south Gujarat condition" was conducted during summer season of 2016 at College Farm, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari to study the response of summer sesame to nitrogen, phosphorus and biofertilizers. The different levels of nitrogen viz., N₁: 25 kg/ha, N2: 50 kg/ha and N₃: 75 kg/ha, different levels of phosphorus P₁: 12.5 kg/ha, P₂: 25 kg/ha and P₃: 37.5 kg/ha and biofertilizers viz., B₀: No inoculation and B₁: Inoculation with azotobacter and phosphate solubilizing bacteria to summer sesame in eighteen treatment combinations replicated three in factorial randomized block design. Nutrient content (N, P and K) in seed and haulm was non-significant on nitrogen, phosphorus and biofertilizers. Nutrient uptake (N, P and K) by seed and haulm was significantly higher the application of N₃: 75 kg/ha and P₃: 37.5 kg/ha - 330 - which was at par with N2: 50 kg/ha and P₂: 25 kg/ha. Nutrient uptake (N and P) by seed was significantly highest the B₁: Inoculation with azotobacter and PSB, While, the K uptake by seed was non-significant. Nutrient uptake (N, P and K) by haulm was non-significant to B₀: No inoculation and B₁: Inoculation with azotobacter and PSB.

2 tables, 16 ref

019203   Patel D B;Bhadane R S;Dhruva J J;Shukla Y M (Plant Physiology Dep, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural Univ, Anand, Gujarat) : Effect of seed hardening chemicals on morpho-physiological attributes in green gram (Vigna radiata L.). Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 5-7.

The present investigation was carried out to study the effect of seed hardening on morpho-physiological parameters in green gram. The green gram var. GAM-5 was imposed with various seed hardening treatments i.e., 2% CaCl₂, 500 ppm Cycocel, 1000 ppm Cycocel, 25 ppm NAA, 50 ppm NAA, water soaked control and absolute control. The above treated seeds along with control were evaluated for their seed quality parameters, morpho-physiological parameters under laboratory condition. The study revealed that seeds hardened with CaCl₂ @ 2% recorded higher germination per cent, root length, fresh weight of shoot, turgor shoot weight, shoot dry weight, root fresh weight, root turgor weight, root dry weight, seed vigour index I & II and root to shoot ratio. The treatments CaCl₂ 2% followed by Cycocel 1000 ppm were found to be superior for most physiological parameters as compared to other treatments and control on the basis of lab studies.

1 table, 17 ref

019202   Paramjit Kaur;Dilawari V K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: paramjitkaur@pau.edu) : Behaviour of laboratory-selected Cry1Ac-tolerant strain of Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Bt-cotton. Curr Sci 2017, 112(7), 1579-83.

The effect of Bacillus thuringiensis toxin Cry1Ac on the behaviour of a laboratory-selected resistant population (72-fold) of Helicoverpa armigera on Bt-cotton was evaluated. Compared with non-Bt-cotton and Cry1Ac toxin incorporated in semi-synthetic diet, resistant larvae reared on Bt-cotton had only 0.13% survival and slower development. The results suggest that Cry1Ac from Bt-cotton exerts a greater toxic effect in terms of larval mortality coupled with decline in larval growth rate compared to semi-synthetic diet.

2 illus, 2 tables, 31 ref

019201   Pandey S;Bhatore A;Kureshi S P;Babbar A (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: suneetagen@gmail.com) : Agro-morphological characterization of the exotic germplasm of lentil in Madhya Pradesh, India. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1941-5.

A collection of lentil landraces comprising 68 genotypes from the ICARDA and 3 commercial varieties, were evaluated for 24 (11 qualitative and 13 quantitative) agro-morphological characteristics. A wide range of diversity of almost all of the plant characteristics that were studied was recorded for the lentil genotypes. Principal component analysis (PCA) was performed for 13 quantitative traits. The first four principal components accounted for 73.46% of the total variation. PCI was positively associated to days to 50% flowering, days to pod initiation, days to maturity, plant height and negatively with number of primary branches per plant and number of secondary branches per plant. PC2 exhibited positive effect for total number of pods per plant, number of effective pods per plant and biological yield per plant and negative effect for number of seeds per pod, allowed for higher seed yield. PC3 was positively related to harvest index and seed yield per plant, whereas PC4 was related with 100 seed yield. Genotypes X2011S 111 and X2011S 133 are common in PC1,PC 2, PC 3 and PC 4. Thus, selection of these genotypes can help in further development of high yielding and early maturing varieties in lentil.

3 tables, 19 ref

019200   Palepad K B;Bharad S G;Bansode G S (Horticulture Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra) : Effect of seed treatments on germination, seedling vigour and growth rate of custard apple (Annona squamosa). J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(6), 20-23.

An experiment was carried out to study the effect of seed treatments on seed germination and seedling vigour of custard apple during 2015-16 at Nursery Unit, Main Garden, Department of Horticulture, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidypeeth, Akola by using completely randomized design with twelve treatments. The seeds treated with GA₃ 1000 ppm solution minimized the days (10.27) taken for germination and improved the germination percentage (83.33%). Similar trend was observed in growth parameters, Viz. seedlings height (23.33, 37.54 and 48.31 cm), girth of plant (0.46, 0.62 and 0.93 cm), number of leaves (17.37, 28.60 and 32.64), leaf area (76.42 cm2), fresh and dry weight of plant and survival percentage (72.81.%).

2 tables, 28 ref

019199   Orji V O;Ogbonna P E;Onyia V N;Okechukwu E C (Crop Science Dep, Nigeria Univ, Nsukka, Nigeria, Email: okechukwu@unn.edu.ng) : Improvement of fruit taste quality of 'egusi' melon (Colocynthis citrullus L.) through hybridization with watermelon (Citrullus lanatus Thumb.). J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 1-6.

The research was aimed to improve fruit taste in 'egusi' melon through generic hybridization with watermelon. Three accessions of 'egusi' melons (Egu) seeds were crossed separately with two varieties of watermelons; Kolos (WM 1) and Kolack (WM 2) to generate hybrids (F₁) that were later - 328 - selfed (F₂). Backcrosses (BC) were also made to the watermelon parents. The parents, FI, F₂ and BC genotypes were planted in the field in a randomized complete block design and organoleptic assessment was done at harvest. The F₁ produced only hybrids with sweet fruit taste, WM 1 x Egu 3 (26), Egu 1 x WM 2 (24) and Egu 3 x WM 2 (33) except Egu 1 x WM 1 that produced only genotypes with intermediate fruit taste (32). The Chi-square statistics for the F₂ showed that fruit taste in 'egusi' melon and watermelon cross was under the control of many genes. The successful backcrosses obtained showed reduction in the proportion of with fruits bitterness viz., Egu 2 x WM 2 (bitter= 0 and sweet= 10) and Egu 3 x WM 2 (bitter= 13 and sweet= 16) indicating prospect for improving the fruit taste quality of 'egusi' melon through hybridization with watermelon.

9 tables, 22 ref

019198   Niu J B;Wang R L;Chen C Y;Jia L H;Song Y Y; Zeng R S (College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural Univ, Wushan, Guangzhou 510642, China, Email: rszeng@scau.edu.cn) : Over-expression of OsCPS2 and OsCPS4 enhanced allelopathic potential in rice (Oryza sativa). Allelopathy J 2017, 41(2), 259-68.

To find the relationship between different pathways of diterpenoid biosynthesis and rice allelopathic effects, two over-expressed transgenic lines oe-OsCPS2 and oe-OsCPS4 were developed. Over-expression of OsCPS4 led to accumulation of momilactone A and B, and enhanced the inhibitory effects of rice on root growth of lettuce seedlings. Over-expression of OsCPS2 decreased the accumulation of momilactones and stimulated the lettuce seedlings. qRTPCR analyses demonstrated that over-expressed OsCPS4 down-regulated the OsGA20X2 and OsZEP, but up-regulated the OsIPT4, suggesting that over-expression of OsCPS4 may compromise the biosynthesis of gibberellins and auxins and increased the biosynthesis of abscisic acid.

6 illus, 1 table, 40 ref

019197   Nenavati R N;Ashwani Kumar (Entomology Dep, SHIATS, Allahabad-211 007, Email: rameshrathood@gmail.com) : Effect of agroclimatic conditions on chickpea gram pod borer at Allahabad. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 453-6.

The studies regarding gram pod borer larva population occurrence and its fluctuation along with the weather parameters during the period of rabi, 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 revealed that incidence of 0.33 larvae / plant of gram pod borer was observed during 08th standard week i.e., in fourth week of February during rabi, 2014-2015 but during rabi, 2015-2016 gram pod borer incidence was observed during 01st standard week i.e. in second week of January with 1.26 larvae / plant. Later gram pod borer population increased and it reached peaks with 4.87 and 3.63 during 13 standard week i.e., in fifth week of march and 10th standard week i.e., in second week of march both trials rabi, 2014-2015 and 2015-2016 respectively but declined trend was observed during 14 standard week and 11th standard week at the time of harvesting during both years respectively. The correlation analysis showed that, both maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed and sun shine hours were positively correlated during both years. Relative humidity was negatively correlated with the gram pod borer population during both years. The correlation coefficient (0.528) of rainfall was positive correlated during 2015-2016 but coming to year 2014-2015, it was negatively correlated (-0.015).

2 tables, 19 ref

019196   Nenavati R N;Ashwani Kumar (Entomology Dep, SHIATS, Allahabad-211 007, Email: rameshrathood@gmail.com) : Efficacy of certain novel insecticides against gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) on chickpea at Allahabad district. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 439-42.

Experiment was conducted at agriculture research farm, SHIATS, Allahabad during rabi 2014-15 and 2015-16 to study the efficacy of certain novel insecticides for the management of gram pod borer in chickpea. Two sprays of respective insecticides were applied at 15 days interval in both trials. Results revealed that, the number of gram pod borer larvae per meter row length was lowest in plots treated with T₃ chlorantraniliprole, T₅ Indoxacarb, and T6 Flubendiamide which were found to be most superior to the rest of treatment by recording 91.88, 90.17 and 88.75 per cent reduction over control respectively. Pod damage due to pod borer was lowest in plots treated with T₃ Chlorantraniliprole (3.56%) followed by Indoxacarb (4.18%), T₂ Lambda Cyhalothrin (4.53%) and Flubendiamide (4.81%) which were also found at par with each other. Maximum yield was obtained with T₃ Chlorantraniliprole (20.84 q ha^-1) followed by T₅ Indoxacarb (20.36 q ha^-1) and T6 Flubendiamide (20.10 q ha^-1). The lowest grain yield was recorded from the plots sprayed with T₁ Triazophos (17.19 q - 327 - ha^-1) among the treated treatments. The cost effectiveness of these treatments with synthetic Pyrethroid and its combinations, followed by Indoxacarb, Fipronil and diamide group insecticides were with higher cost benefit ratio.

2 tables, 27 ref

019195   Negi A S;Pandey P K;Shrotria P K (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, College of Agriculture, G. B. Pant Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar-263 145, Email: arvindnegi86@yahoo.com) : Correlation of path coefficient analysis of component attributes in finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.]. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1852-6.

A total of 34 genotypes of finger millet were used for present investigation including three local checks viz. VL-149, PES-110 and PM-3. The characters like plant height (0.592), culm thickness (0.553), number of productive tillers per plants (0.730), number of leaves per plant (0.648), flag leaf area (0.812), seed diameter (0.534), number of grains per panicle (0.524), thousand grain weight (0.621) showed highly significant positive correla-tion with grain yield per hectare. A positive and highly significantly value of genotypic correlation coefficient ensures the effectiveness of characters for selection procedure in order to maximize yield. Path coefficient analysis revealed that characters like flag leaf area (0.916), number of productive tillers per plant (0.547), number of leaves per plant (0.762), thousand grain weight (0.236) and number of grains per panicle (0.16) and number of grains per panicle (0.16) showed high positive direct effect on yield. Therefore, number of productive tillers per plant, flag leaf area, number of grains per panicle, flag leaf length and width, plant height, seed diameter, thousand grain weight, number of leaves per plant, finger number per ear and reduced AUDPC for blast are the characters which provide enormous amount of opportunity for selection.

2 tables, 6 ref

019194   Neelakanth J K;Ashoka P;Dasar G V;Gundlur S S;Rajkumar S (NO, Water Management Research Center, Belavatgi, UAS, Dharwad) : Effect of planting techniques and irrigation scheduling on productivity and water use efficiency of chickpea (Cicer arietinum). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1978-82.

A field study was conducted on chickpea (Cicer arietinum) crop by using different irrigation techniques, normal furrow and raised bed systems at during four rabi season. The experiment consisted of three planting techniques viz., normal (farmers practice) planting, 60 cm raisec bed and 120 cm raised bed and three-irrigation schedules i.e. 0.8 IW/CPE, 0.6 IW/ CPE, and 0.4 IW/CPE ratio. The four years rabi seasons (2009-10 to 2012-13) pooled results revealed that, a higher chickpea grain yield of 13.35 q/ha, gross income of Rs 10,565/ha, net income of Rs 5,628/ha and B : C ratio of 2.82 was obtained by irrigation level of 0.8 IW/CPE irrigation treatment. A significantly superior water use efficiency of 4.95 kg/ha-mm was observed with irrigation level at 0.4 IW/CPE. Planting on 120 cm raised bed treatments, a higher chickpea grain yield of 13.83 q /ha, water use efficiency of 20.15 kg/ha mm, gross income of Rs 10,376/ ha and net income of Rs 5426/ha and B : C ratio of 3.21 recorded. A significantly superior water use efficiency of 5.34 kg/ha mm was observed with 120 cm raised bed. The interaction between irrigation 0.8 IW/CPE ratio and 120 cm raised bed configuration treatment recorded a higher grain yield (15.38 q/ha) - 326 - and this result also on par with the 120 cm raised bed with the 0.6 IW/CPE and 0.4IW/CPE ratio irri-gation treatments. The water saving with irrigation level of 0.4 IW/CPE ratio was 47 and 26% over 0.6 IW/CPE and 0.8 IW/CPE ratio treatment respec-tively. Whereas the water saving in irrigation level with 0.6 IW/CPE ratio was 28% over 0.8 IW/CPE ratio with 120 cm raised bed.

2 tables, 8 ref

019193   Nayak S B;Manoharan T;Soundararajan R P (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Tamil Nadu Agriculture Univ, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu) : Monitoring insecticide resistance to leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in rice growing regions of Tamil Nadu. J Ent Zool Stud 2017, 5(6), 23-6.

Leaffolder, Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Guenee) is a prominent and important insect pests of rice and more insecticides are being used for the management in the farmers' holdings. In the present study, level of insecticide resistance in rice leaffolder was assessed by collecting leaffolder from different rice growing tracts of Tamil Nadu and using the data on discriminating dose (DD) fixed on susceptible population. The results revealed that the per cent resistance varied from 53.34 to 80.00, 51.8 to 63.34, 10.66 to 26.67 and 43.34 to 61.34 respectively for insecticides chlorpyriphos, cartap hydrochloride, chlorantraniliprole and profenophos. The order of frequency of resistance to different insecticides were chlorpyriphos <62> cartap hydrochloride <62> profenophos <62> chlorantraniliprole. Irrespective of the insecticides tested, high resistance was noticed in Bhavanisagar population. The order of resistance levels to chlorpyriphos, cartap hydrochloride, chlorantraniliprole and profenophos in the four major rice growing locations in Tamil Nadu were Bhavanisagar <62> Aduthurai <62> Coimbatore <62>Trichy.

1 illus, 1 table, 24 ref

019192   Naveen Kumar S;Uma Devi G;Prashanth J (Plant Pathology Dep, College of Agriculture, Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural Univ, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-500 030, Email: snaveenagrico@gmail.com) : Standardization of inoculation technique for artificial creation of false smut of rice caused by Ustilagi noidea virens pot culture studies. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1662-6.

The effect of each inoculation method was studied with spore suspension of Usitlaginoidea virens causing false smut disease of rice. Among various inoculation methods adopted at different stages employing NLR-34449 rice variety with conidial suspension (30xl0⁴ spores ml^-1) of Ustilaginoidea virens showed that booting and late - 325 - booting stage was ideal for infection with maximum smut balls followed by inoculation at flowering stage (13.3, 12 and 7.33 smut balls/panicle respectively). Inoculation done at panicle initiation stage did not produce any symptoms of disease. Similarly, the seeds treated with chlamydospores and soil application of pseudomorphs failed to produce symptoms.

7 illus, 1 table, 4 ref

019191   Natikar P K;Vinod M;Nandihalli B S;Balikai R A (Agricultural Entomology Dep, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: shanthunatikar@gmail.com) : Biology of two spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae koch (acarina : tetranychidae). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 325-7.

The biology of two spotted red spider mite, Tetranychus urticae Koch was studied under laboratory conditions during kharif- 2016 at the College of Agriculture, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. The results indicated that the incubation period ranged from 3.50 to 4.01 days with an average of 3.75 ± 0.19 days followed by the larval period which ranged from 1.50 to 1.98 days with an average of 1.76 ± 0.15 days. The first quiescent stage which followed the larval stage, ranged from 0.95 to 1.32 days. The proto and deutonymphal periods ranged from 0.77 to 1.15 and 0.99 to 1.75 days, respectively. The total developmental period from egg to adult was 10.55 to 12.80 days. Female and male longevity ranged from 12.58 to 14.00 and 5.82 to 6.35, respectively. The fecundity varied from 58 to 70 with an average of 64 ± 4.10.

1 illus, 1 table, 8 ref