019140   Khangar H;Hirandhede D K (Plant Physiology Dep, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur Madhya Pradesh, Email: hardayalsinghccs@gmail.com) : Studies on above ground biomass (AGB) for assessing vegetation carbon pool in tropical forest ecosytem of Central India. Int J pharm Sci Res 2016, 7(11), 4588-91.

For estimation of carbon stocks in tropical forest types belonging to southern part of Madhya Pradesh, 30 adopted representative sites comprising eight districts viz, Jabalpur, Seoni, Balaghat, Narsinghpur, Mandla, Dindori, Shahdol and Umaria were selected for study and studies were carried out during 2009 to 2011. The study covered three types of vegetation i.e. teak mixed forest, sal mixed forest and mixed forest. In the study modern tools like Remote Sensing (RS) and GIS were used for quick and reliable assessment of above ground biomass (AGI) and vegetation carbon pools in the region. Nested two stage sampling design was adopted to select sample plots in all forest and density classes. One super plot of 250 m x 250 m in size equivalent to MODIS pixel size was laid out in each super plot. The total sample size consisted o 30 super plots and 120 sample plots within super plots. The tree density and basal area in study sites was ranged between 105 (UMA-8) to 1508 (DIN-7) stems/ha and 22.2 L (JBP-7) to 325.65 (DIN-1) m2/ha. The AG was ranging between 6.39 (UMA-8) in mixed forest to 215.5 t/ha (DIN-1) in sal - 303 - forest type vegetation. The carbon density range was distributed in the order of sal forest (36.10 to 102.39 t/ha) <62> teak forest (5.17 to 67.78 t/ha) <62> mixed forest (3.0 to 33.2 t/ha). The overall vegetation ground percentage in the study area ranged between 47.5% (JBP-3) to 97.30% (UMA-9).

10 ref

019139   Kazi T G;Mohite A;Kamble S;Khatavkar S (Fisheries Engineering Dep, College of Fisheries, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: ashishmohite@yahoo.com) : Comparative analysis of trammel nets operated from different water bodies with special reference to Ratnagiri, Maharashtra, India. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 479-82.

Trammel nets are triple walled nets consisting of three layers of webbing and were generally operated as bottom set net for catching shrimps in marine waters. The middle loosely hung webbing layer was made up of smaller mesh size ranging from 45 to 50 mm and was fabricated by using either Polyamide monofilament or multifilament twine. Outer two identical webbing layers were relatively tightly hung and were made-up of comparatively thicker twine of PA multifilament twine with an mesh size ranging from 250 to 280 mm.

1 table, 7 ref

019138   Kaur G;Sarao P S (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: preetento@pau.edu) : Brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stal) generation cycle and behaviour on cultivated rice. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 563-7.

Brown planthopper (BPH) is a serious pest of rice and causes economic damage to crop. BPH passed through eight overlapping generations in a year. One generation was completed in 23 days at 31.02 ± 2.82oC during July 12 -August 3, whereas in November 16- March 1 the generation was completed in 106 days at 13.61 ± 3.06oC. The oviposition occurred mostly at dusk from 19:30 to 23:30 hours. The mating period lasted for 56-113 seconds. When one male was confined with ten females for five days, then out of ten, 1-3 females oviposited. This variation in the generation time, total generations and behaviour parameters will help in the understanding the BPH population growth, development and abundance, which can be further used for sound IPM strategies.

1 illus, 2 tables, 32 ref

019137   Karuppasamy K;David Kingston S;Jawahar P; Venkataramani V K;Vidhya V;Dattatreya P S (NO, Fisheries College and Research Institute, TNFU, Tuticorin, Email: karuppasamymfsc@gmail.com ) : Length-weight relationship of Lethrinus lentjan an Nemipterus bipunctatus (valenciennes, 1830) from wadge bank, South India. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 539-42.

Length-weight relationship was estimated in two species of perches occurring in the commercial landings at Wadge Bank during the period June 2014 - May 2015. The parameters `a' and `b' of the exponential length-weight relationship of the form W = aLb are presented for two species viz., Lethrinus lentjan and Nemipterus bipunctatus. The regression coefficient `b' was found to be 2.906 in L. lentjanand 2.656 in N. bipunctatus. The relationship was found to beinsignificant comparing the slop value of two studied species namely L. lentjan and N. bipunctatus at the 1% level. It could be observed that negative allometric is evident for the both the studied species.

2 illus, 2 tables, 10 ref

019136   Karuna K;Shadakshari Y G;Jagadish K S;Geetha K N (All India Coordinated Research Project on Sunflower Zonal Agricultural, Univ of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru-560 065, Email: kavalikaruna@yahoo.co.in) : Correlation and multiple regression analysis between disease severity of powdery mildew of sunflower in relation to weather parameters. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1742-6.

The loss due to powdery mildew in sun-flower is proportionate to the disease severity and varies considerably depending on the stage of the plant growth at which disease occurs. High inoculum in the field coinciding with favorable environmental conditions leads to early infections causing severe losses. The dates of sowing during 2009 particularly June to September disease was not observed, whereas sowing from September last week to November last week disease initiation started earlier and reached maximum. During kharif, disease severity was influenced to a greater extent by relative humidity followed by rainfall and temperature. This is because the inter relationship between temperature and rainfall (r = +0.735), rainfall and relative humidity (r = ± 0.880) and temperature and relative humidity (+0.829) was positive. During rabi, disease severity was influenced to a greater extent by relative humidity followed by temperature and rainfall. This is because the interrelationship between temperature and rainfall (±0.224), temperature and relative humidity (±0.818) was negative, while, rainfall and relative humidity (±0.818) was positive (+0.420). In the pooled data rainfall influenced the disease severity to a greater extent followed by temperature and relative humidity.

5 tables, 3 ref

019135   Kambrekar D N;Natikar P K;Balikai R A (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, Email: kambrekarn@gmail.com) : Bio-efficacy of emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC against defoliators and girdle beetle infesting soybean. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 413-19.

With a view to evaluate the bio-efficacy of newer insecticide Emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC against defoliators and girdle beetle infesting soybean a field experiment was conducted at the Main Agricultural Research Station, UAS, Dharwad during kharif 2014-15 and 2015-16. The highest reduction in the population of Thysanoplusia orichalcea (Fab.) over the control was recorded in emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 475 ml/ha (95.29%) and emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 425 ml/ha (90.43%). Across the intervals emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 475 and 425ml/ha have successfully reduced the population of Spodoptera litura (Fab.). Across the intervals emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 475 and 425 ml/ha were effective in reducing damage due to girdle beetle (Obereopsis brevis (Swedenbord)) by recording the lowest - 301 - damage of 0.67 and 1.00 damaged plant per metre row length, respectively. The data on yield revealed that, emamectin benzoate 1.9 % EC @ 475 ml/ha recorded the highest seed yield (1656.00 & 1751.33 kg/ha during kharif 2014-15 and 2015-16, respectively) followed by emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 425 ml/ha (1601.33 & 1721.67 kg/ha during kharif 2014-15 and 2015-16, respectively) and were statistically on par with each other. Whereas, control plot recorded the lowest seed yield (601.00 & 682.00 kg/ha during kharif 2014-15 and 2015-16, respectively).

6 tables, 11 ref

019134   Kambrekar D N;Natikar P K;Balikai R A (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, Email: kambrekarn@gmail.com) : Phytotoxicity of emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC on soybean and its effect of natural enemies of soybean pests. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 397-400.

A field study was carried out to know the phyto-toxicity of emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC on soybean and its effect on natural enemies of soybean insect pests at the Main Agricultural Research Station, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad (Karnataka, India) during 2014-15 and 2015-16. Emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC @ 425 ml/ha and even at double the dose of 850 ml/ha did not show any phytotoxic symptoms on soybean plants such as yellowing, leaf injury, vein clearing, necrosis, wilting, epinasty and hyponasty at different days after treatment. The study on the effect of emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC on spiders and coccinellids indicated that there was no statistical difference among the treatments as for as spiders and coccinellid population is concerned. It is clear from the present study that the new formulation of emamectin benzoate 1.9% EC did not show any phytotoxicity symptoms even at the higher dosages and was safer to the potential natural enemies in the soybean crop ecosystem.

3 tables, 9 ref

019133   Kamble S C;Kazi T G;Chaudhari K J;Shirdhankar M M;Dhaker H S (Fisheries Engineering Dep, Diploma in Fisheries Engineering, Shirgaon, Ratnagiri-415 629, Email: sushilkamble213@gmail.com ) : Catch composition of purse-seine fishing along ratnagiri coast of Maharashtra state, India. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 431-4.

A study was carried out for the analysis of catch composition of purse-seining along the Ratnagiri coast. The - 300 - fish catches and other details of the purse-seines operating from Mirkarwada fishing harbor were recorded randomly. The study revealed that, Indian oil sardine and cat fish contributed 28.58 and 24.30 per cent respectively in the total fish landings of purseseine operated from Mirkarwada fish landing centre along with significant contribution of Indian mackerel (14.77%), lesser sardines (14.41%), horse mackerel (9.50%) and tuna (4.36%). Month-wise catch composition of purse-seine indicated that, the most productive month was April (14.56%) during the study period whereas, January was least productive month (5.15%). Amongst all the species landed by purse-seine at Mirkarwada fishing harbour, landing of Indian mackerel was observed in all the months during fishing season. Other than this species, horse mackerel (except January) and lesser sardines (except September) were also landed throughout the fishing season. Seasonal variation in purse-seine catch composition indicated that 43.32 per cent landing was in the summer season and 37.07 per cent in winter season, while only 19.61 per cent in the months of monsoon.

3 illus, 9 ref

019132   Jamanal S K;Sadaqath S (Agricultural Extension Education Dep, College of Agriculture, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad, Karnataka) : Constraints faced by the soybean growers. J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(6), 31-2.

The present study was undertaken during the year 2013-14 in Dharwad district of Karnataka. The study covered 15 villages from 3 taluks of Dharwad district to form a sample of 150 respondents were randomly selected. Data was collected from the selected sample through personal interview with the help of pretested structured interview schedule. The finding of the study revealed that seventy per cent of the farmers indicated that High cost of inputs followed by erratic behaviour of rainfall 65.33 per cent, high incidence of pest and diseases 53.33 per cent,. Marketing constraints like, price fluctuation 88.66 per cent followed by malpractice in weighment 77.33 per cent, non-availability of timely market information 63.33 per cent.

1 table, 6 ref

019131   Jadhav R;Sharma Y P;Sarvade S (Forest Products Dep, Dr Y. S. Parmar Univ of Horticulture and Forestry, Nauni, Solan (HP)-173 230, Email: ranijadhav2009@gmail.com) : Growth and yield of Malaxis acuminata D. Don as influenced by type of planting material. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1935-40.

Orchids are one of the largest and most diverse groups among angiosperms and mostly known for ornamental purposes. In addition to their ornamental value, orchids are also well known for their medicinal usage especially in the traditional folk medicine. Malaxis acuminata can be efficiently propagated through both pseudobulbs as well as rhizomes but the plants produced through rhizomes were more vigorus in growth parameters in comparison to plants produced through pseudobulbs. As plants raised through rhizomes were taller (7.89 cm) than plants raised through pseudobulbs (5.86 cm). Also plants raised through rhizomes gave the maximum total yield (7.43 g) per plant compared to plants raised through pseudobulbs (3.34 g). In Malaxis acuminata, single rhizome per plant was produced which is economic part and is used as drug. So for further multiplication of plant, pseudobulbs which were produced in 2-4 numbers per plant can be utilized. The effect of size of planting material had pronounced effect on the growth and yield parameters of resultant crop. The growth and yield parameters increased with the increase in size of planting material.

4 tables, 22 ref

019130   Jabeen A;Narayan S;Hussain K;Khan F A;Ahmad A;Mir S A (Vegetable Science Div, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology of Kashmir, Shalimar, Jammu and Kashmir) : Organic production of spinach beet (Beta vulgaris var. bengalensis) through the use of manures and biofertilizers. J Pharmac Phytochem 2017, 6(6), 10-13.

A field experiment was conducted at Vegetable Experimental Field, SKUAST- K Shalimar during Rabi season 2016-17 to evaluate the effect of organic manures and biofertilizers on growth and leaf yield of spinach beet. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with nine treatment combinations replicated three times. The treatments comprised of organic manures viz., farm yard manure, sheep manure, vermicompost, mustard cake and two types of bio-fertilizers namely Azospirillum and PSB, including RFD (recommended fertilizer dose) as control. Results revealed that growth parameters like plant height (27.18, 27.44 and 27.48 cm), weight of leaf blade (1.13, 2.55 and 3.54 g), weight of leaf petiole (0.48, 0.50 and 0.63 g), seedling emergence per cent (97.68 %), seedling root length (9.09 cm), seedling shoot length (6.19 cm) and seedling vigour index (1492.55) were highest in the treatment in which vermicompost @ 3 tonnes ha^-1 + - 299 - biofertilizers @ 5 kg ha^-1 was applied. Lowest values for growth parameters were recorded in treatment where mustard cake @ 1.2 tonnes ha^-1 was applied. Yield parameters like number of leaves (10.97, 9.37 and 7.09), leaf area (20.10, 64.10 and 104.30 cm²), leaf yield per plant (17.62, 29.27 and 29.26 g) and per hectare (58.73, 97.58 and 97.88 q) were also registered highest in vermicompost @ 3 tonnes ha^-1 + biofertilizers @ 5 kg ha^-1. Treatment RFD (control) recorded the lowest values for yield parameters.

3 tables, 14 ref

019129   Indrasen;Keval R;Mishra V K;Rahul Kumar (Entomology and Agricultural Zoology Dep, Banaras Hindu Univ, Varanasi-221 005, Email: premvijaybhu@gmail.com) : Efficacy of some newer insecticide against major insect pests in pigeonpea agro-ecosystem. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 245-8.

Field experiments were conducted during Kharif 2014-15 to evaluate the efficacy of newer insecticides major insect pests in pigeonpea variety BAHAR. The minimum per cent pod damage in pigeonpea crop by pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa Malloch) 20.33% in Indoxacarb 15.8 EC @ 73 g a.i/ha treated plot and maximum per cent pod damage 25.00% in Dmethoate 30 SC @ 600 g a.i. /ha treated plot. While in control plot the damage was (32.00%). The minimum per cent pod damage in pigeonpea crop by tur pod bug (Clavigrella gibbosa Spinola) (9.67%) was recorded in Indoxacarb 15.8EC @ 73 g a.i/ha treated plot and maximum per cent pod damage 16.00% in Pofenophos+DDVP 2ml+0.5ml/lit treated plot while in control plot damage due to pod bug was 16.00%. The minimum per cent pod damage in pigeonpea crop by pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera Hbner) 2.33% in Acephate 75SP@ 750 g a.i./ha treated plot and maximum 5.33% in Lufenurol 5.4EC SP @ 20 g a.i./ha treated plot While in control plot the damage was 9.67%. All the treatments were found to be superior over control with respect to per cent pod damage.

4 tables, 17 ref

019128   Huang Y Q;Han L S;Tao T T;Yao Y C;Yang J F; Liang C H;Xie J H;Han X R (Land and Environment College, Shenyang Agricultural Univ, No. 120 Dongling Road, Shen He District, Shenyang City, Liaoning Province, 110866, China, Email: hyqlch@163.com) : Bacterial community in peanut soils in various cropping systems. Allelopathy J 2017, 42(1), 93-108.

We investigated (i). the composition of soil bacterial communities in continuous monoculture and rotation in 3-cropping systems (continuous maize monoculture for 3 years, continuous peanut monoculture for 3 years, maize - peanut rotation), (ii). if soil bacterial communities in the rhizosphere were affected by the addition of chemical soil amendments (mixture of biochar and silicon powder) and biological soil amendments (Kuai-rui-song) in continuous monoculture peanut. The Analysis of the V4 16S rRNA gene region on the Illumina MiSeq platform, identified the changes in bacterial diversity and community structure. Although the composition of predominant taxa was similar in all 5-treatments, but there were few differences in the least-abundant phyla such as Synergistetes, Tenericutes, GAL15 and WS2. There were four unique phyla [Synergistetes, GAL15, WS2 and Kazan-3B-28] in peanut fields in continuous monoculture. Four phyla - 298 - [Tenericutes, WS2, OP3 and FCPU426] were significantly different (p <60> 0.05) in the peanut monoculture field and in the maize-peanut rotation field. Continuous monoculture with peanut had the highest bacterial community richness, as indicated by high Chao index and Ace index. In maize-peanut rotation, the rhizosphere bacteria belonged to 500 genera. Among the bacteria, Bradyrhizobium, Rhodospirillum, Burkholderia, Candidatus Koribacter, Candidatus, Solibacter and Koribacteraceae were more frequent. Although there was no improvement in bacterial diversity at the generic level, but the addition of soil amendments slightly altered the bacterial diversity than in peanut monoculture and the addition of biological soil amendment was slightly better than the chemical additive.

4 illus, 6 tables, 53 ref

019127   Houndonougbo P K;Chikou A;Sodjinou E;Bonou C; Adite A;Hazoume R;Agblonon T;Koudenoupko C;Laleye P;Mensah G A (NO, Univ of Abomey-Calavi, Faculty of Agronomic Science, Laboratory of Hydrobiology and Aquiculture, 03 BP 2819 Jericho, Cotonou Benin) : Effect of the incorporation of the flour of the worm of compost (Eisenia foetida) (savigny, 1928) in the feed of tilapia Oreochromis niloticus high out in basin. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2017, 5(6), 6-12.

The present study aims at determining the optimal and maximum quantity of the flour of worm of manure E. foetida in the feed of fingerlings of O niloticus. The experiment has been carried out of basins square of 1m³ of volume during 45 days from October at November 2016. During the period of acclimatization which lasted three days the fingerlings of initial average weight 4.79 ± 0.23 g have been nourished with Coppens. They have been then subjected to five treatments (T0; T5; T10; T15 and T20 corresponding to contents of 0%; 5%; 10%; 15% and 20% of flour of worm of manure in feed. At the end of the experiment the final average weights calculated was in the between 33.18 ± 13.71 g and 56.70 ± 14.65 g according to treatments'. Thus, the variance analysis with single direction (Anova1) with Statview 5.1 indicates that no significant difference exists between the various rates of survival. However, a significant difference between the various specific growth rates (from 3.45 ± 0.31%/day to 6.67 ± 0.30%/day) was observed. According to the mathematical model (amount-answer) based on the polynomial regression of the second degree, the maximum rate of incorporation of the flour of worm of manure in feed of fingerlings of O niloticus high out of basin under the conditions of this study was 13,82%.

3 illus, 4 tables, 32 ref

019126   Hosen M H A;Pervin R;Shahriar S I M (Faculty of Fisheries, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology Univ, Dinajpur, Bangladesh) : Changes in growth performances, survival rate and water quality parameter of pond on different stocking density of Gulsha tengra (Mystus cavasius) in a monoculture system. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2017, 5(6), 52-6.

This study highlighted the effect of different stocking density of Gulsha Tengra (Mystus cavasius) on its growth performance, survival as well as water quality parameters of the pond in a 4 months trial in a monoculture system. Changes in water quality and growth performance were analyzed considering three different stocking density such as 400 ind./decimal (T1); 500 ind./decimal (T2) and 600 ind./decimal (T3) with two replication of each using Complete Randomization Design (CRD). Water quality parameters were viz. temperature, dissolve oxygen (DO), pH and transparency were measured fortnightly during the study period. Results showed significant differences (P<62>0.05) between treatments. Temperature was relatively high with an apparent opposite trends of DO in T3 treatment. Moreover, it was observed that the highest length and - 297 - weight was found in T1 treatment. In addition, better growth rate with maximum survivability was recorded in low stocking density. It might be concluded that comparatively lower stocking density of Gulsha Tengra could provide more production and also be suitable in order to maintain better water quality parameters in enclosed culture condition.

3 illus, 2 tables, 33 ref

019125   Hiremath R;Yadahalli G S;Yadahalli V G; Chittapur B M;Siddapur A D (NO, , Agronomy Dep, UAS Raichur-584 102, Email: rajanandhiremath@gmail.com) : Herbicidal effects: Evaluation of soil and crop health in cotton. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1803-7.

A field experiment was conducted during growing season of 2012-13 under UKP command area to develop an effective weed management strategy. The experiment comprised of 14 treatments having two PRE (diuron, pendimethalin) and five POST (propaquizafop, quizalofop p tefuryl, fenoxaprop p ethyl, quizalofop ethyl and pyrithiobac sodium applied twice at 20 and 40 DAS individually or in sequence with pendimethalin PRE) herbicides and weedy and weed-free check. Crop phytotoxicity and soil de-hydrogenase activity were the part of research. At 15 DAS, diuron 80 WP @ 1 kg a.i. ha^-1 PRE recorded higher crop phytotoxicity (3.33) compared to pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 0.68 kg a.i. ha^-1 PRE (2.00) which progressively receded at 25 DAS. The effects still persisted with diuron than with pendimethalin, however from 35 DAS to 60 DAS there was more recovery. Soil dehydrogenase activity was not affected by post emergent herbicides because of most of their spray was on weed canopy only, while only pre emergent herbicides initially caused temporary decrease in the soil dehydrogenase activity and was recovered in later days. At 25 DAS, unweeded check and weed free check recorded the highest (21.34 and 21.07 μg g^-1 soil day^-1) amount of TPF formed. These were on par with all other treatments except treatments followed with pre emergent herbicides. The least soil dehydrogenase activity (16.30 and 17.20 μg TPF g^-1 soil day^-1) was noticed in recommended practice i.e., diuron 80 WP @ 1 kg a.i. ha^-1 PRE and pendimethalin 38.7 CS @ 0.68 kg a.i. ha^-1 PRE. The highest soil dehydrogenase activity (22.96 μg TPF g^-1 soil day^-1) was again noticed in weed free check at 45 DAS and it was on par with all other treatments. So no significant differences were observed among the treatments. The same trend was continued at 60 DAS. But, 90 DAS onwards soil dehydrogenase ac-tivity was reduced and it was noticed as least at harvest.

2 tables, 8 ref

019124   Hazarika M (Entomology Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat) : Pollution and its impact of sericulture industry. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 33-7.

Pollution is the introduction of contaminants into the natural environment that causes adverse change. Pollution causes pre mature death of plants, affect respiratory system of human and animal. Pollution reduces growth and yield of crops. Air pollution has been associated with both primary (direct) and secondary (indirect) effect on insect populations. The flaring gas gathering station causes in massive oil spills and gas flaring causing significant hazards. Pesticides is inevitable in ecosystem, sericulture farmers unknowingly purchase and spray some non-recommended pesticides to solve the pest problem, but on the other hand the silkworms die out of pesticide toxicity leading to - 296 - total crop loss.

^iia3 tables, 24 ref

019123   Harshavardhan M;Kumar D P;Yathindra H A; Rajesh A M;Hongal S (Floriculture and Landscape Architecture Dep, College of Horticulture, Sirsi-581 401, Email: harshaemailid@gmail.com) : Effect of integrated nutrient management on soil health, nutrient uptake, flower quality and yield of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.). Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1862-7.

An experiment was conducted to know the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and flowering of carnation, (Dianthus caryophyllus L.). The experiment was conducted by applying different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrient sources. The plants were planted at the spacing of 20 cm x 15 cm and were laid out in completely randomized block design with three replications. Among the observed parameters, significantly maximum available soil nutrients (305.60,34.46 and 273.30 kg/ha N, P₂O₅ and K₂O, respectively) NPK content in leaves (5.03% N, 0.56% P, 4.08% K) flower stalk length (75.45 cm), number of flowers per plant (22.19), number of flowers per m2 (739.59) and vaselife (10.17 days) were recorded in plants receiving 75% RD NP and 100% K+ Azospirillum brasilense + Bacillusmegaterium+ VAM + Vermicompost+Pancha-gavya+Jeevamrutha+Trichoderma harzianum (T₇) as compared to 100% RDF (T₁). Hence treatment T₇ viz., 75% recommended dose of nitrogen and phospho-rus and 100% potassium +Azospirillum brasilense +Bacillus megaterium +Glomus fasciculatum (VAM Fu- ngi)+Trichoderma harzianum + vermicompost+ panchagavya + jeevamrutha was best in improving soil nutrient status, flower quality and yield.

2 tables, 12 ref

019122   Harshavardhan M;Kumar D P;Yathindra H A; Rajesh A M;Hongal S (Floriculture and Landscape Architecture Dep, College of Horticulture, Sirsi-581 401, Email: harshaemailid@gmail.com) : Influence of integrated nutrient management on flower quality, yield and post harvest behavior of carnation [Dianthus caryophyllus L.] under polyhouse condition. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1857-61.

An experiment was conducted to know the effect of integrated nutrient management on growth and flowering of carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.). The experiment was conducted by applying different combinations of organic and inorganic nutrient sources. The plants were planted at the spacing of 20 cm x 15 cm and were laid out in Completely Randomized Block Design with three replications. Among the observed parameters, significantly maximum - 295 - flower stalk length (75.45 cm), flower stalk girth (5.56 mm), number of flowers per plant (22.19), number of flowers per hectare (7395.93), marketable flowers (9.14%), water uptake (27.77 g), water loss (28.55 g) and vaselife (10.17 days) were recorded in plants receiving 75% recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus and 100% potassium + Azospirillum brasilense + Bacillus megaterium + Glomus fasciculatum (VAM Fungi) + Trichoderma harzianum + vermicompost + panchagavya + jeevamrutha (T₇) as compared to 100% RDF (T₁). Hence treatment T₇ viz., 75% recommended dose of nitrogen and phosphorus and 100% potassium+Azospirillum brasilense +Bacillus megaterium+Glomus fasciculatum (VAM Fungi) + Trichoderma harzianum + vermicompost + panchagavya +jeevamrutha was best for healthy growth and development.

2 tables, 10 ref

019121   Han C X;Shao F C;Guo J W;Hu Y X;Zhang C;Shao H (Key Lab of Biogeography and Bioresource in Arid Land, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi, 830011, China, Email: shaohua@ms.xjb.ac.cn) : Indirect allelopathic effects of Xanthium italicum morretti on soil properties and microbial communities. Allelopathy J 2017, 41(2), 211-22.

Authors evaluated the effects of ethanol and aqueous extracts of invasive weed Xanthium italicum Morretti on soil properties and soil microbial communities and the possible involvement of secondary metabolites in the invasion process. The application of both extracts increased the soil organic matter, total and available N, P, K. These extracts increased the available P by 11.5% and 13.6%, and available K by 108.8% and 126%, respectively. Aqueous extract stimulated the enzyme activities (increased the activities of urease, invertase, protease and alkaline phosphatase by 30%, 118%, 100.7% and 47.8%, respectively) than ethanol extract. Culture-dependent approach revealed that application of ethanol and aqueous extracts increased the quantity of soil bacteria by 590.5% and 301.4%, respectively, while, the growth of fungi and actinomyces were inhibited significantly. The AWCD values obtained from different soils followed the order: control <62> aqueous extract <62> ethanol extract. These indicated that application of ethanol and aqueous extracts significantly altered the soil microbial communities, which might consequently affect the interaction between above- and below-ground interactions.

3 illus, 3 tables, 42 ref

019120   Hameed O B;Shafi F;Jan N (Post-Harvest Technology Div, Sher-e- Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir) : Studies on nutritional composition of coriander leaves by using sun and cabinet drying methods. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 12-14.

The preservation of green leafy spices is very important. Coriander as a whole plant has various benefits in human life. Coriander leaves are used in various foods and also for various medicinal purposes. In the present investigation, coriander powder was prepared by using different drying techniques viz sun drying and cabinet drying of coriander leaves which were blanched with different treatments. The results obtained from cabinet drying under blanched treatment were better than the other treatment combinations.

3 tables, 8 ref

019119   Halesha K;Anjanayappa H N;Naik M;Rajesh D P; Nayana P (Fisheries Resources and Management Dep, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Science Univ, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru-575 002, Email: manya4018@gmail.com) : Food and feeding habits of rainbow sardine, Dussumieria acuta from Mangaluru Region. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 265-7.

The study deals with the composition and nature of food items, feeding habits and intensity of feeding habit of Dussumieria acuta from Mangaluru region. The gut content analysis showed that approximately consisted of shrimp appendages 13.58%, fishes 15.09 %, crab larvae 2.14%, copepods 0.59%, semi digested matter 64.68%, diatoms 0.41%, dinoflagillates 0.83%, sand grain 1.00% and fish scale 1.84% represent the monthly diet composition of D. acuta.

3 tables, 5 ref

019118   Halesha K;Anjanayappa H N;Naik M;Rajesh D P; Nayana P (Fisheries Resources and Management Dep, Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Science Univ, College of Fisheries, Mangaluru-575 002, Email: manya4018@gmail.com) : Length-weight relationship and condition factor of Dussumieria acuta from Mangaluru region. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 199-200.

The length-weight relationship of Dussumieria acuta (Valenciennes) was estimated and given by the equations, male W = 0.007036L^3.0723 and female W = 0.0075021L^3.0172. The b value did not show significant difference between male and female. Hence, the pooled equation for male and female obtained at W=0.0072661L^3.04775. The fluctuation in the relative condition factor (Kn) values with respect to size indicated that condition of fish showed that an increase trend in size of the fish. The K_n values remained the low in the size groups of 12-14 cm and 14-16 cm, then gradually increased in the size range from 16-18 cm, 18-20 cm and 20-22 cm. The data on seasonal variation in condition (Kn) of both male and female showed that the values were more or less similar in both sexes, indicating almost identical metabolic activity in male and female which may be attribute to gonadal development and high feeding intensity.

3 table, 5 ref

019117   Gurunath M B;Balikai R A (Agricultural Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, Email: rabalikai@gmail.com) : Management of safflower aphid, Uroleucon compositae through spray formulations of insecticides. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 369-72.

The investigations on the effect of newer insecticides against safflower aphid, Uroleucon compositae (Theobald), were carried out at the Agricultural Research Station, Annigeri, Karnataka, India during rabi 2015-16. The effect of newer molecules of insecticides on aphid revealed that, among the different treatments, thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.30 g/l, acetamiprid 20 SP @ 0.20 g/l and imidacloprid 17.8 SL @ 0.50 ml/l were very effective in reducing the aphid population after first spray (15.46, 16.98, and 17.89 aphids/ 5 cm apical twig, respectively) and second spray (7.90, 9.20 and 10.12 aphids/ 5 cm apical twig, respectively) and recorded significantly highest seed yield of 12.47, 12.15 and 11.84 q/ha, respectively with highest B C ratio of 2.26, 2.14 and 2.05, respectively.

3 tables, 12 ref

019116   Gundappa S;Adak T;Shukla P K (NO, ICAR-Central Institute for Subtropical Horticulture, Rehmankhera, Lucknow-226 101, Email: gundappa@icar.gov.in) : Humid thermal ratio as a tool to assess mango thrips dynamics under subtropical climatic condition. J envir Biol 2016, 37(6), 1239-45.

Weather factors play an important role in occurrence of thrips on mango. Keeping this in view, the present investigation was set out to assess the thrips population dynamics using humid thermal index, based on data sets from 22 fixed plot mango orchards in and around Lucknow. Results revealed that the highest thrips population of 3.36/panicle was recorded in Kakori (Fixed plot -I) orchard, which was followed by 2.4 and 2.06 at CISH III block and Kanar (Fixed II) respectively during the year 2013, whereas corresponding values were 4.05, 3.08 and 2.50 at CISH Block III, CISH Bolck II and Allupur respectively during 2014. The frequency distribution explained that the thrips population of <60>2 /panicle was widely distributed with highest frequency level. The humid thermal ratio ranged from 1.44 to 2.27 and 1.20 to 2.34 during 2013 and 2014 respectively across standard meteorological weeks. The peak thrips incidence was 6.18 /panicle during 2013 and 4.67/panicle during 2014, the corresponding values of humid thermal ratio were 1.47 and 2.05 respectively. The positive correlation was found between humid thermal ratio and thrips population dynamics during 2013 (r = 0.52**) and 2014 (r = 0.72**). Pooled data showed significant and positive correlation between humid thermal ratio and thrips population. Pooled analysis had explained up to 94 per cent of variation with exponential model (Thrips population - 293 - = 0.007e^2.778HTR, R² = 0.94**) and suggested that this index might be used in understanding the mango thrips population dynamics under subtropical environmental condition.

3 illus, 3 tables, 20 ref

019115   Gundannavar K P;Kumar C J;Mantur S M (NO, Agricultural Sciences Univ, Dharwad-580 005, Email: kpg2006@rediffmail.com ) : Management of whitefly, Bemisia tabaci (gennadius) in cotton. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 447-51.

A field experiment for evaluation of Pyriproxyfen 10%+Bifenthrin 10% EC against cotton whiteflies was conducted at KVK, Saidapur Farm, UAS, Dharwad during Kharif 2014. The test chemical, Pyriproxyfen 10%+Bifenthrin 10% EC was evaluated at three different doses of 500, 600, 700 ml/ha and compared with standard checks and untreated check. Pyriproxyfen 10% + Bifenthrin 10% EC @ 700 ml/ha registered lower whitefly population, higher seed cotton yield as well as B:C ratio as compared to Standard Pyriproxyfen 10%EC @ 1000 ml/ha and Bifenthrin 10% EC@ 800 ml/ha.

7 tables, 9 ref

019114   Goramnagar H B;Nagare P K;Bharad S G;Sonune B A;Raut R F (Horticulture Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra) : Effect of chemical fertilizer through fertigation and micro-irrigation on fruit yield and nutrienit use efficiency in acid lime of semi-arid climatic conditions of Maharashtra. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 31-5.

The present field experiment was conducted to study the effect of micro-irrigation based on evaporation depletion with reduced doses of NPK applied through fertigation on fruit yield, profitability and water use efficiency of acid lime at AICRP on Tropical Fruits, Dr. PDKV, Akola during 2012-13 and 2013-14. The study was conducted in FRBD comprised of three - 292 - levels of micro-irrigation (I₁-100, I₂-90 and I₃-80 % Evp) and three levels of fertigation (F₁-100, F₂-80 and F₃-60 % RDF) in nine treatment combinations replicated thrice. The pooled results revealed that irrigation level I₂ and fertigation level F₁ produced significantly maximum fruits in hasta bahar followed by the irrigation level I₃ and fertigation level F₂ which were found to be at par with each other. However, significantly maximum fruit yield of annual yield was recorded under the irrigation level I₁ and fertigation level F₁ which were at par with their respective lower level i.e. I₂ and F₂. The irrigation level I₂ and fertigation level F₃ recorded maximum N use efficiency and partial; factor productivity followed by I₃ and F₂ which were on par with each other.

3 tables, 15 ref

019113   Goramnagar H B;Magare P K;Bharad S G; Paithankar D (Horticulture Dep, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola, Maharashtra) : Effect of micro-irrigation and fertigation on growth parameter and fruit yield of acid lime. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 15-8.

The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design comprised of three levels of irrigation i.e. 100, 90 and 80 per cent micro-irrigation of Evp and three levels of fertigation i.e. 100, 80 and 60 per cent RDF with nine treatment combinations replicated thrice to study the effect of micro-irrigation and fertigation on plant growth parameters. The plant growth in respect of plant height and plant spread was found maximum in I₁ (100% micro irrigation at Evp) and in F₁ (100% RDF through fertigation) individually which were at par with I₂ (90% micro irrigation at Evp) and F₂ (80% RDF fertigation) except increment in shoot length. The treatment combinations of irrigation and fertigation were non-significant on these parameters. The significantly highest number of fruits in hasta bahar were produced in the irrigation level I₃ (676.6); fertigation level F₁ (688.6) and in combination treatment I₃F₁ (734.2) which were at par with I₂ (664.2); F₂ (671.9) and I₃F₂ (719.5) and I₂F₁ (710.5), respectively during pooled results.

3 tables, 14 ref

019112   Gend D G;Jadhav V B;Kolekar S N (Seed Science and technology Dep, CCS Haryana Agricultural Univ, Hisar, Haryana) : Genetic variability among variety of sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] based on protein prifle of seed storage proteins. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 8-11.

In India, the Government enacted the legislation on Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers Rights (PVP and FR) Act in 2001. The act provides protection of new varieties including extant-notified and farmer's varieties. Novelty, Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability are the essential requirements for grant of protection to all the new varieties. Under the PVP and FR Act 2001 of India, it requires registration of varieties based on three principles know as DUS (Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability) criteria. The DUS testing principles are used for the protection of variety and award of Plant Breeder's Rights (PBR), a system of - 291 - intellectual property protection which is available to breeders of all types of crops. On practical level, DUS assessment of agricultural crops generally involves growing field crops under appropriate ambient conditions, and recording various morphological characteristics of the seed and/or growing plants. Laboratory and green house tests can also be involved (Mauria, 2000) and the new (candidate) varieties are compared with existing varieties that are kept as reference collection. The present investigation comprised of 12 varieties of fodder sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) was undertaken for genetic variability among varieties of sorghum based on protein profile of seed storage protein. The banding pattern of total soluble protein showed considerable variation among the twelve fodder sorghum varieties. Seven protein marker bands were present in all varieties but the intensity and thickness varies from variety to variety. The analysis of total soluble protein banding pattern in all the fodder sorghum varieties were carried out along with the standard protein molecular weight marker having 14.4 to 116.0 kDa. Unweighted paired group method with arithmetic mean (UPGMA) was used to construct dendrogram for all the twelve sorghum varieties. The dendrogram showed two major clusters at coefficient of 0.7774.

2 illus, 4 tables, 6 ref

019111   Gayakawad P S;Evoor S;Mulge R;Reshmika P K; Nagesh G C (Vegetable Science Dep, (Univ of Hort Sci, Bagalkot, K. R. C. College of Horticulture, Arabhavi-591 218, Email: parashuramsg624@gmail.com) : Heterosis studies in bottle gourd [Lagenaria siceraria (Mol.) Standl.] for growth and yield parameters. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1756-63.

Thirty six hybrids were evaluated along with parents and commercial check to assess the magnitude of heterosis for growth and yield parameters in bottle gourd. The maximum heterosis was observed in the cross IC392392 x PSPL (71.43%) for vine length at 45 DAS, IC392392 x AB (44.08%) for vine length at 75 DAS, IC392392 A x PSPL (38.70%) for number of branches 45 DAS, IC284953 x AB (8.12%) for number of branches 75 DAS, IC308564 Ax PSPL, IC421962 x PS and IC284953 x AB (26.67%) for number of fruits per vine, for average fruit weight IC342078 x PS (150.00%) over commercial check. The cross NBBL-12 x PS exhibited maximum heterosis for fruit yield per vine (57.00%) and fruit yield per hectare (174.97%) over commercial check respectively.

3 tables, 11 ref

019110   Ganie S A;Kaul V (Entomology Div, Faculty of Agriculture, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences &, Chatha, Jammu-180 009, Email: saganie.ganie@gmail.com ) : Bioefficacy of botanicals on biological activities of pulse beetle Callosobruchus chinensis L. (Coleoptera: Bruchidae) on stored chickpea. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 2018-22.

Investigations were conducted to evaluate the bioefficacy of botanical powders' namely Neem (Azadirachta indie a), Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), Clove (Syzegium aromaticum), Camphor (Cinnamum camphora) and Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) against pulse beetle Callosobruchuschinensis L. at 2%, 4%, 6% and 8% w/w. The highest number of eggs laid (159) was observed from control and minimum (24.51) when treated at 8% w/w with leaf powder of neem and showed an oviposition deterrence of 84.54%. The F₁ adults emerged from control treatment were 93.50% compared to only 4.33% when treated at 8% w/w with leaf powder of neem and caused an inhibition of 95.33%. The leaf powder of neem at 8% w/w exhibited maximum feeding deterrence of 92.26% and minimum feeding deterrence of 9.19% was exhibited by powder of camphor at 2% w/w. The neem oil at 8% w/w 24 h after application caused 72.71% repellency while, 48 h after application caused 71.71% and least repellency of 9.70% was observed in camphor oil at 2% w/w.

2 tables, 17 ref

019109   Ganie N A;Kamili A S;Rashid M;Khan I L;Dar K A;Zia-ul-Haque S (Temperate Sericulture Research Institute, Sher-e-Kashmir Univ of Agricultural Sciences & Technology, Kashmir, Email: nisarseri@yahoo.com) : Haemolymph amylase activity in some tropical and temperate breeds of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L.. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 227-32.

The amylase activity was carried out by the analysis of haemolymph in diapausing and non-diapausing strains of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L. Six different breeds viz., Pure Mysore, Nistari, NB₄D₂, SH₆, SKAUR₆ and SKUAST₂₈ were selected for the study. The average haemolymph amylase activity was found to be highest in Nistari (356.92 μg) and (831.99μg) during spring and summer seasons respectively. However, among the bivoltine breeds SKUAST-28 with the average haemolymph amylase activity of 131.28 μg and 133.93 μg during spring and summer seasons respectively was found to be a superior breed with respect to this parameter.

6 illus, 2 tables, 12 ref

019108   Gangbe L;Agadjihouede H;Laleye P A (NO, National Institute of Agricultural Research, Benin 01 Po Box 884 Cotonou, Benin) : Growth of the post-larvae shrimp Macrobrachium vollenhovenii (herklots 1857) fed with food riches in earthworms and termites. Int J Fish aqua Stud 2017, 5(6), 28-33.

The growth of the post-larvae in captivity depends quantitatively and qualitatively on food rich in protein. The present study was aimed to test four (04) feed rations on the growth of post-larvae in captivity. The pilot R1 ration (Raanan) is obtained in business, the R2 ration contains cornstarch and the rations R3 and R4 are respectively made up with the earthworms and termites flour. The post larvae weight of 0.23 ± 0.02 g are bred for ninety days and simultaneously in twelve vats (0.23 m³) and twelve basins (1 m³). The average values obtained for the weight in vats are 0.6 ± 0.15 g; 0.41 ± 0.25 g; 0.40 ± 0.13 g; 0.35 ± 0.1 g respectively for shrimp batches corresponding to rations R1, R2, R3 and R4. In basins, these weights are 0.45 ± 0.22 g for R1 and R2 and 0.40 ± 0.20 g and 0.31 ± 0.18 g, respectively, for R3 and R4. The survival rate varies between 42.02% ± 31.45 and 65.22 ± 17.39% in vats and 10.33 ± 4.73% and 20.67 ± 2.08% in basins. The high values of the Food Conversion index from 1.44 g/g to 2.8 g/g and the Proteinic Rate of Efficiency from 0.50 g/g and 0.98 g/g confirm the low rations performance in basins.

2 illus, 2 tables, 36 ref

019107   Gajbhiye R K;Sidar Y K;Mishra V K;Pandey N; Nirmal A (Entomology Dep, College of Agriculture, Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Raipur-492 012, Email: premvijaybhu@gmail.com) : Evaluation of resistance in wild rice accessions against yellow stem borer Scirpoghaga incertulas (Walker). J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 301-3.

In the investigations, 53 promising wild rice accessions had been screened against yellow stem borer (YSB), Scirpophaga incertulas (Walker) during kharif seasons 2014-15 in field and laboratory condition. It is pertinent to mention that all the wild rice accessions had shown different degree of susceptibility to stem borer attack and they were put under different damage score. In field condition stem borer infestation ranged from 0 per cent to 28.80 per cent dead heart. Out of 53 accessions thirteen - 289 - accessions namely PTB33(resistant check) Oryza latifolia MS:3 VS:48 VS:52 VS:62 VS:98 VSR:16 VSR:33 VSR:58 D:40 D:24 D:13 were free from attack of stem borer at the tillering stage and were grouped under 0 damage score having 0 per cent stem borer dead heart infestation. In laboratory conditions also fifty three wild rice accessions were screened under laboratory condition by artificial inoculation of stem borer larvae. Stem borer infestation ranged from 10 percent to 85.88 per cent under laboratory study. Minimum infestation was shown by S:48(12.50%), VSR:33(16.67) and D:30(18.18%).

3 tables, 9 ref

019106   Fathima R;Krishnankutty J;Krishnan S (College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural Univ, Thrissur-680 656, Email: jaya_melethil@yahoo.co.in) : Differential awareness about components of agriculture among students in Kerala. J trop Agric 2016, 54(1), 90-4.

Urbanization, better literacy standards and greater skill attainment has moved the younger generation away from agriculture. This is all the more pronounced in Kerala, the state with highest degree of urbanization in India. The students as the next generation of consumers, should be on the focus of the educational efforts regarding agriculture and food processing because, the political and social decisions of the today's students will have the power to change the agricultural industry. In this context, the current study attempted to analyse the awareness level of higher secondary school students from state and CBSE syllabus on agriculture. The results showed that only 17 per cent of the students had high awareness on the components of agriculture. There existed huge variation in the awareness level of students from rural and urban background and also between students under state and CBSE streams of education. The students exhibited highest awareness level on the crops grown in Kerala whereas the lowest level of awareness was recorded for the food security component. A clear cut diminishing pattern of ranks from Rural state - Rural CBSE - Urban state - Urban CBSE with regard to awareness on agriculture was obtained in Kruskal Wallis test.

4 tables, 6 ref

019105   Elakkanai P;Francis T;Jayakumar N (Fisheries Biology and Resource Management Dep, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Univ, Thoothkudi-628 008, Email: elakkanai@gmail.com) : Effect of synthetic kisspeptin- 10 on changes in the level of reproductive parameters in rainbow shark, Epalzeorynchos frenatum. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 189-92.

Rainbow shark attained sexual maturity at 12-15 cm in length, 20- 25 g in weight which was confirmed at the peaks of gonado-somatic index (GSI) and fecundity. The fecundity of Epalzeorynchos frenatum has shown highly significant correlation with body length, body weight and ovary weight. Our investigation has revealed that gonadosomatic index (GSI) in Epalzeorynchos frenatum began to increase in March and peaked in July. This study characterized the variation of the steroid hormones testosterone (T) and 17β-estradiol (E2) during the reproductive cycle and their correlated with ovarian development stage.

6 illus, 25 ref

019104   Elakkanai P;Francis T;Ahilan B;Jawahar P; Padmavathy P;Jayakumar N;Shenoy N (Fisheries Biology and Resource Management Dep, Tamil Nadu Fisheries Univ, Fisheries College and Research Institute, Thoothukudi-628 008, Email: t_franciz2000@yahoo.com) : Effect of GnRH on change in testosterone and estradiol-17β level in blood serum of rainbow shark, Epalzeorhynchos frenatum. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1721-5.

The present study was aimed to know the effect of GnRH hormone profile on both male and female Rainbow shark, Epalzeorhynchos frenatum. Three concentrations viz., 5, 7.5 and 10 μg/kg body weight were chosen for the present study mainly to assess the influence of GnRH hormone on the serum steroid hormone profile of control and GnRH injected fish. An increase in the testosterone level was observed from GnRH injected male fishes during different sampling period. The tesatosterone level was highest during the month of March 2015 (7.8 ng/ml of blood) in hormone injected male fishes. The highest level of estradiol-17β5 level (302 pg/ml of blood) was observed during the month of March, 2015 in female fish.

2 illus, 4 tables, 15 ref

019103   Dwivedi P K;Dubey A K;Dubey S;Tiwari S K;Jha A;Mukul Kumar (All India Network Research Project on Onion and Garlic, vegetable Scie, C.S. Azad Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Kalyanpur Kanpur-208 024, Email: dwivedi_pradip@rediffmail.com ) : Efficacy of some botanicals biopesticides and insecticides against onion thrips Thrips tabaci lindeman in Uttar Pradesh. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 89-91.

The field study was conducted under All India Network Research Project on Onion and Garlic, at Department of vegetable science, C.S. Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kalyanpur Kanpur (U.P.) during Rabi season 2009-10 and 2010-11 to r ecognize the effective, ecofriendly, efficacy of some botanicals biopesticides and insecticides against onion thrips (Thrips tabaci Lindeman) in Uttar Pradesh. The treatments comprised as spraying of botanicals like neem crude oil @ 4%, pongamia crude oil @ 4%, dasparni @ 50 ml/l, Beauveria bassiana (10¹³ spores/ha), spinosad @ 56 g a.i. /ha along with a chemical insecticide like profenophos @ 1ml/l and a control without any spraying, replicated thrice and arranged in randomized block design. The result indicated that Profenophos@ 1 ml/l and Neem crude oil @ 4% not only significantly reduced the thrips population (3.35 and 10.45 thrips/ plant) but also increased total marketable yield (30.45 and 26.50 t/ ha), respectively. Higher B: C Ratio was recorded in Profenophos@ 1 ml/l (6.29) than Neem crude oil@ 4% (4.71). It may be concluded that efficacy of botanicals biopesticides and Insecticides against Onion Thrips not only reduces thrips infestations but also produces better yield with higher B: C Ratio in onion.

1 table, 17 ref

019102   Dwibedi S K;De G C;Dhua S R (NO, Orissa Univ of Agriculture and Technology, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, Email: sanatdwibedi@rediffmail.com) : Correlation between vegetative parameters and yield with weed biomass of kharif rice genotypes at varying dates of sowing and systems of cultivation in coastal Odisha. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1726-30.

The field experiments to study the corre-lation between the vegetative parameters and yield with the weed biomass of kharif rice genotypes at varying dates of sowing and systems of cultivation were undertaken in coastal Odisha during kharif 2009 and 2010. These were laid out in split split-plot design with 20 June, 5 July and 20 July sowing in the main plots ; Best Management Practice (BMP), System of Rice Intensification (SRI) and Modified SRI (MSRI) in sub-plots and two genotypes of rice i.e. hybrid Ajay and cv Tapaswini in the sub sub-plots, giving rise to 18 treatment combinations that were replicated thrice. Weed biomass at 40 DAS decreased significantly with delay in sowing beyond 20 June due to suppression of weeds with monsoonal rain water at subsequent dates. The grain and straw yields also followed this trend. SRI had the highest weed biomass followed by MSRI and BMP. But, the grain and straw yields were the highest in - 287 - MSRI followed by SRI and BMP. Hybrid Ajay, apart from its genetic potential, could perform better with higher grain yield than HYV Tapaswini due to lesser weed infestation at active vegetative stage. There were high and significant positive correlations between dry matter of rice with plant height, leaf and tiller number, LAI, root volume and depth at 40 DAS. The weed biomass and grain yield were significantly and positively correlated with that of all the vegetative parameters under consideration. However, there was no such significant correlation between weed biomass and straw yield of rice.

3 tables, 5 ref

019101   Dubey R (RVSKVV, College of Horticulture, Mandsaur, Madhya Pradesh, Email: rajivdubey.1503@rediffmail.com) : Response of improved production technologies on productivity of tomato under farmers field situations. Life Sci Bull 2016, 13(1), 33-4.

Adaptive research trials on tomato were conducted during 2013-2014 at farmer's field of Vidisha district, Madhya Pradesh in order to demonstrate production potential of improved production technologies. The improved production technologies recorded the higher marketable yield of 151 q/ha which was 72.57% higher than that of farmers practices of 87.5 q/ha. Improved technologies had given higher growth attributes viz. Plant-height (88.65 cm), primary branches (7.05) and root length (31.7 cm plant^-1). Improved practices also showed higher economic water-use efficiency (2180 Rs/ha/cm) over farmers practice (665 Rs/ha/cm).

2 tables, 4 ref

019100   Dhurve N G;Ingle R W;Lad R S;Madavi P N (Plant Pathology Dep, Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola, Maharashtra) : Characterization of phosphate solubilizing bacteria isolated from - 286 - paddy rhizosphere of vidarbha region. Int J chem Stud 2017, 5(6), 24-30.

In present investigation main aim to study morphology, biochemical characters and phosphate solubilising efficiency of phosphate solubilizing bacteria (PSB) from different soil samples were collected during June to October 2014. A total of forty-one (41) PSB were isolated from the eighty two (82) rhizospheric sample of rice plant of Vidarbha region, Maharashtra. Out of 41 isolates; 10 isolates show remarkable zone of solubilization. In vitro evaluation of phosphate solubilising ability of these ten (10) isolates were studied at department of plant pathology, Post Graduate Institute Dr. P.D.K.V., Akola during the June 2014 to May 2015. The zone of solubilization was studied on Pikovskaya's (PVK) agar and quantitative phosphate solubilization was carried out by Vanado- molybdate method. PSB9 showed the maximum phosphate solubilization of 10.17 mm in PVK's agar plates along with phosphate solubilizing activity (41.00 mg P2O5/100ml) in PVK's broth and pH of the medium decreased up to 3.80. However, the isolate PSB-3 shows the least solubilizing activity. Potent isolates show good phosphate solubilizing ability and thus were found potential further used as bio fertilizer agents.

3 illus, 6 tables, 15 ref

019099   Devaraj A N;Prasad Kumar;Jayappa J (NO, College of Horticulture, Bengaluru-560 097, Email: devarajhort@gmail.com) : Seasonal phenology of south american tomato leaf miner Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (lepidoptera : gelechiidae) in parts of southern Karnataka. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 179-83.

Survey carried out in four districts of Southern Karnataka viz., Bengaluru Rural, Chikkaballapura, Kolar and Mysuru to know the incidence level of SATLM across taluks at monthly intervals from July 2015 to April 2016 revealed that, the seasonal pattern, infestation ranged from a low (5.92% leaf infestation) during November 2015 and (1.59 per cent fruit damage) July 2015 to a maximum (24.72% leaf damage and 13.99% fruit damage) during February 2016. Tuta absoluta incidence was found to influenced by the weather parameters viz., temperature, relative humidity, wind speed and rainfall. During the study period, months with high temperature recorded the highest incidence level (February) had positive correlation. During months of September and November, heavy rainfalls higher than the average of respective taluks lead to minimum infestation of leaf and fruit with significant negative correlations. Influence of temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and wind speed contributed 46 to 72 per cent leaf and fruit damage across four districts of Southern Karnataka.

4 tables, 11 ref

019098   Deosi H K;Chhuneja P K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: pkchhuneja@pau.edu) : Some morphometric effects of Varroa destructor anderson and trueman on Apis mellifera linnaeus adult workers. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 151-2.

The present study on Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman was carried out to find out the effect of Varroa infestation on Apis mellifera Linnaeus, weight of worker bee and wing size of bee, was measured, in apicultural Laboratory, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, to see the effect of mite infestation on the adult honey bees. The bees parasitized by two mites had mean reduction of 9.37 per cent in fore-wing length and 15.23 per cent in its width, and 5.21 per cent in hind wing length and 11.52 per cent in its width. However, the weight reduction was 6.56 per cent. Hence, we conclude that Varroa infested colonies lead to significant reduction in worker bee wing and weight.

1 table, 7 ref

019097   Deosi H K;Chhuneja P K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: pkphhuneja@pau.edu) : Preferred site of oviposition by Varroa destructor anderson and trueman in Apis mellifera linnaeus worker brood. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), .

The experiment on site of oviposition of Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman mite in Apis mellifera Linnaeus colonies was carried out at apiary, Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. It highlighted that 19.60±1.68 per cent of first egg was laid on upper middle. The majority of the second eggs, 18.00±1.55 per cent, were laid on upper middle part of the cell. In case of third egg, significantly more per cent, 20.40±1.60, were laid on lower quarter of cell. The fourth and fifth eggs were laid on the upper quarter of the cell and on base of the cell, respectively, but were with non-significant differ ences for site of ovipiosition and egg number. The oviposition studies done in this study may be helpful in differentiating the oviposition habit of this mite from other mites owing to its management.

15 ref

019096   Deosi H K;Chhuneja P K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: pkchhuneja@pau.edu) : Control strategies for Varroa destructor intensity in the worker brood of Apis mellifera colonies under Punjab conditions. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 93-5.

The study on effect of different non-chemical control methods, in Apis mellifera colonies, on Varroa destructor intensity of worker brood was done at apiary, Department of Entomology, PAU Ludhiana. A total of 15 treatments were evaluated, during winter season, mite trapping in drone brood and drone brood destruction gave reduction in mite intensity in worker brood. In summer and monsoon, icing sugar with 8 treatments at 3 day interval was with lower mite intensity. In autumn, icing sugar with 8 treatments at 3 day interval and formic acid treatments gave efficient control of mite while in spring season, mite trapping in drone brood and drone brood destruction reduced the Varroa mite intensity in worker brood.

1 table, 13 ref

019095   Deosi H K;Chhuneja P K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: pkchhuneja@pau.edu) : Varroa destructor anderson and trueman in Apis mellifera linnaeus colonies - development of mite. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 67-70.

Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman was first found on Apis mellifera Linnaeus in Punjab in end of 2004 and by the end 2005, it spread to neighbouring states. As this is a new pest of A. mellifera in Punjab, its biology was studied to find out the total development time of mite and its developmental stages. Biology of the mite was studied at PAU campus apiary during all the five beekeeping seasons viz. spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter. The mean fecundity of V. destructor was 4.63±0.02 and 6.78±0.05 eggs/female in worker brood and drone brood, respectively. The mean incubation period from first to fifth egg was 30.21±0.07, 24.98±0.13, 25.09±0.09, 24.54±0.07 and 25.98±0.10 h in the worker brood, respectively while, itwas 30.50 ± 0.18, 25.35±0.32, 25.85±0.09, 25.56±0.10, 25.88±0.09, 25.75±0.13 and 25.55±0.10 h for the first to seventh egg, respectively, in drone brood. In the worker brood, the total development time for the male and female mite was 141.28±0.24 and 149.06±0.31 h, respectively. In drone brood, the total development period for the male and then first to fourth female, in sequence, was 140.65±0.24, 152.52±0.49, 153.68±0.19, 152.50±0.28 and 154.22±0.17 h.

2 tables, 20 ref

019094   Deosi H K (Entomology Dep, Punjab Agricultural Univ, Ludhiana-141 004, Email: drharminder@pau.edu) : Varroa destructor anderson and truman in Apis mellifera linnaeus colonies - morphometry of the mite and its developmental stages. J expl Zool 2017, 20(1), 223-6.

Varroa destructor Anderson and Trueman was first found on Apis mellifera Linnaeus in Punjab in end of 2004. As this is a new pest of A. mellifera in Punjab and India so, morphological observations were made of different developmental stages of mite. This would help in differentiating the nymphal stages of this mite from other mites. Mean size of egg was 571.84±3.66 x 587.40±3.77 μm. The size of male and female protonymph was 598.32±6.78 x 630.00±8.02 and 660.52±7.13 x 749.96±8.91 μm. The male and female deutonymph size was 769.79±7.63 x 722.48±5.75, 913.25±7.18-1 172.81±24.21 x 1043.26±3.96-1620.41±6.17 μm, respectively. The adult male and female were recorded as 847.57±9.22 x 818.91±9.51 and 1169.98±2.74 x 1751.53±5.71 - 284 - μm, respectively. This morphometric description of V. destructor in India may be helpful in distinguishing this mite from other mite populations within the genus on the evolutionary point of view as well as for developing control measures for the same.

2 tables, 17 ref

019093   Dash C D;Titikshya S;Mohapatra G M;Majhi A J; Ghosal M K (Farm Machinery and Power Dep, College of Agricultural Engineering and Technology, Orissa Univ of Agr, Bhubaneswar-751 003, Email: mkghosal1@rediffmail.com) : Storability and economics studies for cultivating and short-term storage of leafy vegetables (greens) in zero energy cool chamber with gravity fed micro-dripper watering system under coastal conditions. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1818-24.

Leafy vegetables (greens) are highly per-ishable and need immediate storage in a favorable environment after harvest for maintaining their freshness and marketability. Their importance is now-a-days gaining momentum among the consumers because of various health benefits. However, farmers are not interested to grow leafy vegetables due to their high perishability and lack of proper storage facilities which force them to sell their harvested material immediately to whatever prices offered to them, ultimately resulting in reduced net profit to the growers. An attempt has therefore been made in this paper to study the feasibility of using a low cost and almost zero energy consuming storage device for short-term storage of leafy vegetables of about 1 week and to encourage the farmers to go for cultivating greens in a small scale mostly in their back yard for achieving nutritional and livelihood security. One such storage device used for the present study is zero energy cool chamber, developed at Indian Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi. Zero energy cool chamber for this study was modified by incorporating a gravity fed micro-dripper watering system for uniform and continuous wetting of sand bed. A zero energy cool chamber constructed in coastal area of Odisha i.e. at Bhubaneswar was used to study the storability of most prevailing leafy vegetables such as amaranthus, spinach and coriander during April-May 2015. It was found that amaranthus, spinach and coriander could be stored 7, 4 and 2 days in the marketable form in zero energy cool chamber under coastal conditions compared to 2,1 and 1 day in room condition respectively during summer period.

1 illus, 5 tables, 8 ref

019092   Das R T;Talukdar P;Jayostna Devi (Plant Breeding and Genetics Dep, Assam Agricultural Univ, Jorhat-785 013, Email: das.reecha@gmail.com) : Androgenic response of parents and hybrids of four tomato crosses to anther culture. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4), 1704-7.

Five parental lines of tomato and four hybrids were tested for their androgenic response. Out of all the genotypes, parent BL 337 and hybrids H7997 x CLN 2366A and H7997 x Nagcarlan. exhibited maximum callusing. The best medium for callus induction was M₁ medium (MS supplemented with 2mg/l IAA + 3 mg/12ip) with a callus induction range of 12-36%. Average diameter of callus was maximum for callus produced from F₁ of cross H7997 x CLN 2366A. F₁ of cross H7997 x CLN 1621E, H7997 x BL337 also exhibited high callus diameter.

2 tables, 10 ref

019091   Das R;Sujatha M;Pandravada S R (Genetics and Plant Breeding Dep, College of Agriculture, ANGRAU, Rajendranagar, Email: rajeeb25@gmail.com) : Assessment of variability, heritability, genetic advanced in finger millet (Eleusine coracana Gaertn) gemplasm lines. Envir Ecol 2016, 34(4A), 1829-33.

A field experiment was conducted to estimate the genetic variability with forty eight germplasm lines of finger millet in a randomized block design with three replications, during kharif of 2012. The objective of the experiment was to estimate variability parameters for yield and its components. The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the germplasm lines for all the characters studied. In the present investigation, values of phenotypic coefficient of variability were greater than genotypic coefficient of variability for all the characters studied. High values for PCV and GCV were recorded for main ear length and grain yield per plant and moderate for no of basal tillers per plant, no. of leaves on the main tillers, no. of productive tillers per plant and total no. of finger on the main ear. High heritability and high genetic advance as percent (%) of mean was recorded for main ear length, grain yield per plant, finger length, total no. of finger on the main ear, no. of productive tillers per plant, no. of basal tillers per plant, indicating that these characters were controlled by additive gene effects. Selection based on these characters would be effective for future finger millet improvement program.

2 illus, 3 tables, 6 ref