Plant Science Today

Methyl jasmonate mitigates biochemical and phytochemical changes in salt stressed Stevia rebaudiana plants

Zahabiya Dhankot, Gaurav Sanghvi — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study explored the effects of salt stress on growth, oxidative stress, and steviol glycoside content in Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni plants cultivated in soil supplemented with methyl jasmonate (MeJA). Stevia plants were cultivated under normal and salt stress conditions, with and without MeJA supplements of 30 ?M, 60 ?M, and 120 ?M. Samples were harvested after the 1^st, 3^rd, 5^th, 10^th, and 15^th day of treatment. The levels of chlorophyll (p<0.0001), carotenoids (p<0.0001), and antioxidant enzymes such as catalase (p<0.0001), superoxide dismutase (p<0.0001), APX (p<0.0001), and glutathione reductase (p<0.0001) were observed. The quantification of steviol glycosides, including stevioside (p<0.0001) and rebaudioside-A (p<0.0001), was studied by the most advanced hyphenated technique, LC-MS/MS. The study revealed that the oxidative stress responses were significantly improved in MeJA-treated plants compared to salt-stress control plants. The level of production of phenols (p<0.0001), flavonoids, total sugar, reducing sugar, and steviol glucosides was significantly altered in salt-stress plants. MeJA showed a dose- and time-dependent significant effect on the improvement of these factors over salt stress. In conclusion, MeJA not only improves the growth of plants but also reduces oxidative stress and enhances the level of phytochemicals under saline stress.

Efficacy of nano urea in replacing conventional nitrogen application and its effect on fruit quality in strawberry

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In a study conducted on strawberry cv. Winter Dawn, the combined application of nano urea and Azotobacter was investigated for its impact on quality and biochemical attributes under protected cultivation. The findings revealed a noteworthy response of strawberry plants to foliar nano applications compared to conventional soil application of urea. Despite the lower nitrogen dosage associated with nanoparticle supplementation, strawberries with nanoparticles exhibited significant improvements in qualitative and biochemical parameters. These results underscore the potential of urea nanoparticles as a viable nitrogen source, advocating for alternative approaches to nitrogen fertilization. By fine-tuning the dosage ratio, this strategy shows promise in fostering a more environmentally friendly, sustainable and modern method for cultivating strawberries. The enhanced quality and biochemical attributes observed in strawberries treated with nano urea highlight the efficacy of this innovative approach in optimizing plant growth and productivity. Furthermore, the utilization of nano urea in combination with Azotobacter demonstrates synergistic effects, potentially enhancing nutrient uptake and utilization efficiency in plants. This holistic approach improves crop quality and reduces the environmental impact associated with traditional fertilization methods. In conclusion, the findings of this study support the adoption of urea nanoparticles as a valuable tool in strawberry cultivation, offering a pathway towards sustainable agricultural practices. Future research efforts should focus on optimizing application protocols and assessing long-term effects to fully exploit the potential of nano-based fertilizers for strawberry.

Identification of false smut – resistant donors in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) and analysis of their morpho-molecular diversity for resistance breeding

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

False smut disease of rice caused by the pathogen Ustilaginoidea virens is a growing threat to the rice farmers as it affects both quality and quantity. Development of resistant variety becomes difficult, since very few resistant donors were available for false smut resistant breeding programme. Therefore, to identify potential donors for resistance breeding a total of 60 genotypes were screened at hotspot location (Gudalur) during kharif 2023 which led to identification of 12 highly resistant genotypes and the notable ones are Koolavalai, Periya chandikar, Kapikar selection and Earapalli. Genetic variability studies indicated the presence of additive gene action for all the agronomic and disease related traits. Principal component analysis revealed the first 5 principal components collectively contributing 78.79 % of the total variance with disease-related traits contributing significantly to divergence. Ten clusters were delineated using Mahalanobis D2 statistics with clusters IX and V showing higher inter cluster distance (3453.64). Forty-one polymorphic markers were used to analyse the genotypes and The Unweighted Pair Group method with Arithmetic Mean (UPGMA) clustering by Jaccard distance formed 6 clusters. The Bayesian clustering classified the entire population into 2 subpopulations. False smut linked marker RM336 and RM218 were found to be the most informative marker with high Polymorphism Information Content (0.71, 0.69) and Heterozygosity Index (0.76, 0.73). The resistant genotypes such as IG71, Thulasi vasanai sambha, Arupatham vellai, Kaltikar and Chinna aduku nel can be used in the future breeding programmes to develop the resistant cultivar and to identify the candidate genes governing resistance.

Biopriming using microbial consortia and biostimulants as a technique to increase seed quality of Solanum melongena L. by modifications in morphological and metabolic constituents

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is a widely cultivated vegetable in tropical and subtropical regions. High-quality seeds are crucial for successful crop production, necessitating rapid and uniform field emergence. In the new wave of the Green Revolution, organic wastes were replaced by agrochemicals. This study was conducted from January to March 2024 to standardize biopriming techniques for brinjal using various organic inputs and microbial cultures to improve seed quality. Brinjal seeds cv. PLR 2 were treated with organic inputs (Panchagavya, Egg fermented extract, Fish fermented extract and effective microorganism solution) and liquid microbial cultures (Azospirillum and Pink Pigmented Facultative Methylotroph). The bioprimed seeds were assessed for their physiological attributes and anatomical and biochemical changes. Compared with the control, biopriming with 2% Fish fermented extract significantly improved the germination rate (19.4%), germination energy (40.9%), root length (44.4%), shoot length (24.4%) and seedling vigour index (68.1%). This increase was attributed to the nutritional and bioactive compounds in the fish by-products, which promoted root development and nutrient absorption. The biochemical parameters revealed increased ?-amylase activity, protein, and amino acid content in the bioprimed seeds. Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis revealed beneficial root volatile compounds in the roots of treated seeds. An evaluation of the plant growth-promoting activities of the biopriming agents revealed the superiority of fish-fermented extract over other bioagents. Therefore, this method promotes sustainable agriculture and improved crop productivity, providing a scientific basis for biopriming as a viable alternative to conventional seed treatments.

Nutrient and energy conservation through nano-fertilizers in maize

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In the current scenario, achieving food security while conserving resources and energy is a significant challenge. Maize is a widely cultivated but nutrient-exhaustive crop. The adoption of nanotechnology-based nano-fertilizers offers a pathway to achieving sustainable yields while reducing fertilizer requirements and conserving energy. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2021 to explore nutrient and energy conservation through nano-fertilizers in maize at the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru. The experiment involved nine treatments comprising various combinations of the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) with nano-urea and nano Di-Ammonium Phosphate (DAP) under a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD). The results indicated that Treatment T5 - 75% of the Recommended Dose of Nitrogen (RDN) + Nano-N—achieved a higher yield (10.20% higher than the conventional practice, T1-RDF + Farmyard Manure (FYM)) and improved nutrient uptake at harvest [299.22, 55.56, and 208.26 kg of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) per hectare, respectively]. This treatment also demonstrated greater physiological efficiency (36.11, 200.66, and 52.70 kg of maize per kg of N, P, and K, respectively), higher energy output (260,851 MJ ha?¹), improved energy use efficiency (16.93), enhanced energy productivity (0.627 kg MJ?¹), and better energy profitability (15.93). Using 75% of RDN + Nano-N increases yield while reducing fertilizer use and conserving energy.

Evaluating rice yield and resource efficiency: DSSAT analysis of conventional vs. AWD techniques in Coimbatore

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Rice cultivation is a key activity of Indian agriculture, contributing significantly to global rice production and exports. Optimal yield is crucial and influenced by various agronomical and environmental factors. For the experiment, the decision support system for agrotechnology transfer (DSSAT) of the rice crop model is utilized to validate the grain and straw yield in addition to resource productivity metrics and leaf area index. The study was conducted during the Zaid season from January to May in both 2022 and 2023 at the Thensangampalayam village, Coimbatore district, Tamil Nadu. The CO-55 rice variety was used for 2 cultivation methods i.e., conventional and alternate wetting and drying (AWD), along with drone spray of nano urea. The model was calibrated and validated with the input of comprehensive datasets of soil profile, meteorological parameters, crop-specific cultivation methods, agronomic practices and genetic coefficients. AWD consistently outperformed the conventional method in both grain and straw yields. DSSAT simulations achieved a high accuracy of 99.78 % in grain yield and 91.67 % in straw yield between the 2 cultivation methods. The AWD also outperformed in water use efficiency with 2.3 kg/m3 compared to conventional at 1.8 kg/m3. Leaf Area Index was recorded high in the conventional method at heading stage with 6.96 and AWD at 6.46. The study provides valuable information on adaptive farming practices and climate-resilient crop management strategies.

Salvia officinalis L. resilience under chromium stress: An integrated study of growth, physiology, biochemical changes and rosmarinic acid production

Rashmi Ramakrishnan, Praveen Nagella — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Medicinal plants are increasingly challenged by rising chromium (Cr) levels in agricultural soil and water bodies due to industrialization and human activities. This research examines the impact of various chromium concentrations on Salvia officinalis L., a medicinal herb, over 3 specific time periods: 30, 60 and 90 days. As the duration of Cr exposure increases, various growth parameters showed an upward trend at the lowest concentrations, with the most robust growth observed in the 20 ppm Cr treatment group after 90 days. However, higher chromium concentrations resulted in reduced plant growth compared to untreated plants. Chromium primarily accumulates in the roots, stems and leaves, with the highest accumulation observed at 100 ppm. However, chlorophyll content declined with prolonged Cr exposure, particularly at higher concentrations. Carbohydrate levels initially increased at lower Cr concentrations but decreased with greater exposure, while protein content consistently decreased with elevated Cr levels. Proline levels exhibited mixed responses, rising at lower concentrations and declining at higher ones. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content increased with higher Cr levels and extended exposure. The enzymatic antioxidant system showed an initial increase followed by a decline with prolonged exposure. Rosmarinic acid content increased with chromium (Cr) exposure upto 60 ppm but subsequently decreased beyond that threshold. In the first 30 days, plants treated with Cr demonstrated a 17 % increase in rosmarinic acid production compared to the control (48.9 mg/g DW). However, with continued Cr exposure, there was a decline in rosmarinic acid production ranging from 10 % to 20 % compared to the control level (67.02 mg/g DW) at 90 days post-treatment. These findings underscore the complex and contrasting responses of Salvia officinalis to Cr toxicity, highlighting the necessity for extended study into the core mechanisms governing these responses and the development of strategies to alleviate heavy metal stress in plants.

Molecular docking and ADME evaluation of plant-based bioactive molecules targeting nonsense-mediated mRNA decay pathway factors to modulate tumorigenesis

Sanjoy Majumder, Gagan Kumar Panigrahi — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Cancer is a global health challenge that requires continuous efforts to discover effective anticancer drugs. Phytochemicals are compounds found in plants that often have medicinal properties. They possess a wide range of bioactive properties, including anticancer activity. Their multiple mechanisms of action in different physiological processes in humans make them promising candidates in the anticancer therapeutics development. The presence of these compounds makes plants valuable resources for traditional medicine and modern pharmaceutical research as well. Natural products from plants and marine sources are being used to find new anticancer agents. In humans, different cellular pathways are involved in the tumorigenesis process. Many studies have shown the role of the nonsense-mediated mRNA decay (NMD) pathway in the process of tumorigenesis. This NMD pathway is controlled by multiple proteins. In this study, we conducted a molecular docking analysis of 50 phytochemicals against the human NMD factor up-frameshit2 (UPF2) protein. The results of the molecular docking experiment and ADME properties indicate that 4 of these molecules (Genistein, Trihydroxyflavone, Baicalein and Epigallocatechin) have the potential to modulate the NMD pathway. Furthermore, these molecules comply with Lipinski's rule of five. The effects of these 4 phytochemicals may be further evaluated using in vitro and in vivo methods for novel anticancer therapeutic development.

Ethnobotanical study of medicinal plants used by the Tuwalis of Ifugao, Cordillera Administrative Region, Philippines

Marie Ann C. Galvez — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Indigenous groups have used the ethnomedicinal plants in the country as part of their healthcare, but no record was found among the Tuwalis of Lamut, Ifugao, Philippines. Thus, this study aims at documenting their ethnomedicinal knowledge. Semi-structured interviews were utilized to obtain the data from twenty informants, which were then evaluated by some quantitative indices for analysis, including the relative frequency of citation (RFC), use value (UV), relative importance (RI), fidelity level (FL), and informant consensus factor (ICF). There were 87 plant species recorded, represented by 47 families, with the majority belonging to the Asteraceae family (9 species). The most prevalent plant part utilized for healing was the leaves (30%). These plants treated 54 diseases and conditions, where the most typical medicinal use was for cough (13.59%) and diarrhoea (6.62%). The most typical preparation method was decoction, and drinking was the most commonly used mode of administration. Moringa oleifera (0.60) and Ananas comosus (0.50) had the highest RFC values. Annona muricata (1.0) had the highest UV value, while Diplazium esculentum and M. oleifera had the highest RI value of 0.88. The plant species mostly used with a 100% fidelity level were Carica papaya, Psidium guajava, Senna alata, and Momordica charantia. Diseases of the endocrine system (0.60) have the greatest ICF value. These results could aid possible pharmaceutical studies and will help emphasize the value of preserving biodiversity and traditional knowledge.

The influence of conditions on water holding capacity characteristics of triticale varieties planted in the Samarkand region

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In this article, the possibilities of water holding capacity in the leaves of triticale varieties were studied in the conditions of LFMC-70% and arid LFMC-50% of grassland-gray soils of Samarkand region, and the drought resistance characteristics of the varieties were studied. LFMC (Limited Field Moisture Capacity) was maintained at 70% under normal conditions and LFMC at 50% under dry conditions. According to the results of the experimental analysis, drought conditions had a significant and negative effect on the productivity of all studied genotypes. It was found that triticale cultivars "Odessiy" and "Tikhon" grown under LFMC-50% conditions in drought conditions meet water deficit less in all development phases and at all times of the day and are drought resistant compared to other cultivars. Analysis of the physiological and biochemical bases of adaptation in the selection of drought-resistant triticale varieties and the research conducted on the selection and obtaining of fertile varieties suitable for this region are described.

Frequency and temperature-dependent dielectric behaviour of fresh Aloe vera at 1 to 20 GHz microwave frequency using time domain reflectometry

Ashish B. Itolikar, Anand S. Joshi, Avadhut R. Deshmukh , Ashok C. Kumbharkhane — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Aloe vera (AV), known for its gel-filled leaves, is potentially known for its therapeutic properties and has created an interest in its applications in agriculture, medicine, cosmetics, materials science, and sensors. Understanding the dielectric behaviour at different frequencies is crucial and significant to see the possibility of the use of potential biomaterials like AV for sensor development and for studying the electric response. The present study explores the dielectric behaviour of freshly cut AV leaf with its natural moisture within the microwave frequency range of 1 to 20 GHz using the Time Domain Reflectometry (TDR) technique. The variation of complex dielectric constant i.e. dielectric constant and dielectric loss of AV leaf as a function of frequency and temperature has been discussed in this paper. The Cole-Cole diagrams also have been presented. This is a unique effort to study the comprehensive analysis of the dielectric response of AV in microwave region which offers new insights into the electrical characteristics of AV.

A comparative study of crop evapotranspiration estimation in maize using empirical methods, pan evaporation and satellite-based remote sensing technique

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A research study was conducted at the Agricultural College and Research Institute, Coimbatore to estimate the evapotranspiration (ET) of maize crop (Zea mays) over 2 consecutive seasons in 2022-2023. Among the different methods used to estimate crop evapotranspiration, the Food and Agricultural Organization Penman-Monteith model (FAO P-M) is widely recognized as the standard approach for ET estimation. This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of three alternative methods - Thornthwaite (TW), NDVI-based and pan methods against the FAO Penman-Monteith (P-M) model in estimating maize evapotranspiration. Meteorological data were collected from the TNAU weather station spanning the period from 2022 to 2023.The performance of the estimation methods was assessed using statistical metrics such as coefficient of determination (R2), root mean squared error (RMSE), percentage error and mean bias error. The findings revealed that the NDVI-based method, relying on satellite data, provided higher accuracy in estimating maize evapotranspiration compared to the FAO PM method. Specifically, the NDVI-based method achieved the highest coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.87 and 0.89, the lowest RMSE of 12.44 mm/month and 15.5 mm/month, the lowest percentage error of 4.8 % and 9.00 % and the lowest mean bias error of 5.5 and 7.85 for the first and second seasons respectively. This study highlights the effectiveness of the NDVI-based ET estimation method for accurately assessing maize evapotranspiration. While the FAO-56 Penman-Monteith method is highly regarded for its accuracy in both theoretical and practical contexts, the comparative evaluation presented in this paper offers valuable insights for selecting alternative methods that require less data, particularly in regions with limited data availability.

Exploring the antifungal activity of clove oil (Syzygium aromaticum) against wilt disease caused by Fusarium equiseti in bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

Ragul S, Vanitha S, Harish S, Johnson I, Irene Vethamoni P, Senthil A — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study investigates the isolation and characterization of Fusarium equiseti, a fungal pathogen causing wilt in bitter gourd. It explores the antifungal activity of essential oils, particularly clove oil, as a natural management approach. The pathogen was isolated from wilt-infected bitter gourd stems and it was confirmed as F. equiseti morphologically by the presence of three-septate falcate macroconidia and globose microconidia and also confirmed molecularly by PCR amplification of the ITS region (PP501044.1). Among the tested essential oils, clove oil demonstrated the highest mycelial growth inhibition (100%) at a concentration of 0.5%, followed by peppermint, wintergreen and tea tree oils. In comparison, neem oil exhibited the least inhibition (15.54%). GC-MS analysis of clove oil revealed 38 compounds, where eugenol is the predominant compound that played a crucial role in antifungal activity. Additionally, metabolic analysis revealed several enriched pathways in F. equiseti during its interaction with clove oil, particularly those involved in lipid metabolism and energy production. Pot culture experiments confirmed the efficacy of clove oil in reducing disease severity and incidence in bitter gourd, achieving a 66.99 % reduction when combined with soil application.
Furthermore, clove oil-treated plants showed increased activity of defense-related enzymes, including peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) and phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), suggesting the induction of systemic resistance. This study highlights the potential of clove oil as an eco-friendly alternative to synthetic fungicides for managing F. exquisite-induced wilt in bitter gourd. Future research should focus on optimizing clove oil application methods and understanding its interactions with fungal pathogens at the molecular level to enhance its efficacy in sustainable disease management.

Physicochemical characterization of commercially available Dhanwantharam Mezhupakam - An Ayurvedic oil formulation

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

As a neuroprotective and nervine tonic, Dhanwantharam Mezhupakam (DM) is a medicated polyherbal oil formulation made using an Ayurvedic method. It is made by steeping herbs in significant water while simmering Taliam oil for a long time with a paste-like herb mixture. The purpose of the current study was to establish its standard criteria in accordance with the monograph to preserve the product's safety, consistency and quality manufacturing while also determining its heavy metal concentration. Organoleptic assessment, physicochemical evaluation, phytochemical evaluation, chromatographic analysis for active ingredients and heavy metal analysis are some of the formulation-related criteria that are assessed. According to pharmacopeia standards, every metric was examined. According to the study's findings, the formulation was well-standardized in terms of its physical consistency, chemical profile, phytoconstituents and antibacterial properties. Additionally, it was discovered that the sample's heavy metal contents were within WHO and API-acceptable standards.

Accumulation of heavy metals (Cr, Cu, As, Cd, Pb, Zn, Fe, Ni, Co) in the water, soil, and plants collected from Edayar Region, Ernakulam, Kerala, India

Chandni Asha Syamlal, D Sayantan — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The accumulation of heavy metals in the environment is a significant concern due to their potential toxicity and persistence. This study investigates the levels of heavy metal contamination in the water, soil, and plants of the Edayar region in Ernakulam, Kerala, India. The region has experienced industrialization and urbanization, leading to concerns about heavy metal pollution. The study aims to assess the concentrations of chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), arsenic (As), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), iron (Fe), nickel (Ni), and cobalt (Co) in water, soil, aquatic and terrestrial plants. Samples were collected from various locations within the Edayar region, and Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was conducted to quantify heavy metal concentrations. The findings of this study will contribute to the assessment of heavy metal pollution in the Edayar region. Plants with a high diversity index were taken for analysis from both aquatic and terrestrial habitats. Scoparia dulcis L. seems to specialize in metal accumulation, possibly for protective purposes. Synedrella nodiflora Gaertn demonstrates adaptability to metal-rich environments through robust metal uptake and tolerance mechanisms. Alternanthera philoxeroides (Mart.) Griseb, on the other hand, appears to have developed mechanisms to manage heavy metal exposure. The results indicate significant levels of heavy metal contamination across all samples, with the highest concentrations detected in soil, followed by water and plants. Chromium and lead levels in soil exceeded the permissible limits set by international standards, posing potential risks to human health and the ecosystem. The accumulation patterns in plants varied, with higher bioaccumulation factors observed for zinc and copper, suggesting their preferential uptake. This study highlights the urgent need for remediation strategies and continuous monitoring to mitigate the impact of heavy metal pollution in the Edayar region. The results will help in understanding the environmental impact of human activities.

Exploring the potential of bioactive compounds of Capparis spinosa L. from Morocco: Unveiling its antioxidant and antifungal powers against Alternaria alternata

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Capparis spinosa L. is a Mediterranean shrub and one of the most important species of the gender Capparis due to its ecological, medicinal and economic importance. This species has strong adaptation characteristics to regions with fluctuating climates. This work aims to evaluate the effect of the locality’s climate and plant’s parts on the content of polyphenols, flavonoids and antioxidant and antifungal activities of caper leaves and seeds. The present study was carried out in 7 localities in 2 Moroccan regions, Oriental and Fez-Meknes, where we collected leaves and seeds samples. Phenolic compounds were determined by the Folin Ciocalteu method, antioxidant activity was studied by DPPH and ABTS tests and an in vitro test of antifungal activity was achieved using Alternaria alternata. The analysis of variance showed no significant effect of locality, plant’s parts and their interaction on the phenolic compounds, antioxidant and antifungal activities of C. spinosa. Methanolic leaves extracts demonstrated the most favorable outcomes, yielding a maximum polyphenol content of 124.48 ± 0.05 mg EAG/g DW. Additionally, the maximum flavonoid content was recorded at 24.51 ± 0.01 mg EQ/g DW. The evaluation of the antioxidant activity showed that the minimum inhibitory concentration at 50 % (IC50) is 2.06 ± 0.05 mg/mL and 2.05 ± 0.02 mg/mL using DPPH and ABTS tests respectively. These extracts exhibited the highest % of inhibition, 30.59 % at 1000 ppm against A. alternata. The richness of the caper plant in bioactive compounds reveals an interest in its therapeutic and pharmaceutical virtues. In addition, it could be an alternative to chemicals for the control of phytopathogenic fungi on fruits or vegetables.

Yield and quality of beetroot to soil test crop response (STCR) - integrated plant nutrient system (IPNS) based fertilizer prescription in Ultisols of Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu, India

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Beetroot is one of the most important root vegetable crops and is consumed globally due to its rich nutrient content. The current research was conducted on a farmer’s holding, using beetroot (Improved crystal hybrid) in Nilgiri district, Western Ghats of Tamil Nadu to study the effect of different N, P2O5, K2O and integrated plant nutrient system (IPNS) dosages in yield attributes and quality parameters. Two field trials were conducted in farmer's land at Kadanad Village (110 48’ N Latitude, 760 72’ E Longitudes) during the winter of 2024 and in Emerald Village (110 31’ N Latitude, 760 63’ E Longitudes) during the summer of 2024. The experiment was designed using a RBD with ten treatments and three replications. The treatments were absolute control, blanket, blanket + FYM, STCR-NPK based fertiliser dose for an yield target of 35, 40 and 45 t ha-1, soil test crop response - integrated plant nutrient system (STCR-IPNS) based fertiliser dose for an yield target of 35, 40 and 45 t ha-1 and farmer’s practice. The treatment of 180 N+233 P2O5+116 K2O Kg ha-1 along with FYM @12.5 t ha-1 (T3) recorded the highest plant height (51.59 cm), more number of leaves per plant (24.05), leaf width (18.14 cm), higher total chlorophyll (47.28), root yield (44.21 t ha-1) and quality parameters as total sugar (8.95%), reducing sugar (2.08%), non-reducing sugar (6.87%), total soluble solids (12.80 0B) and ascorbic acid (3.62 mg 100 g-1). The treatment receiving inorganic NPK fertilizers along with FYM @12.5 t ha-1 (T3) recorded the highest beetroot of yield of 44.21 t ha-1 than the soil test based inorganic fertilizer application treatment (T6). Fertilizer prescription based on STCR-IPNS model found to be better choice to enhance yield and quality of beetroot.

Exogenous applications of salicylic acid, ethrel and cycocel: Synergistic effects on yield, quality and storability in Garlic (Allium sativum L.) cv. Ooty 2

S Indhumathi, Vethamoni P Irene, A Senthil, S Vanitha, SP Thamaraiselvi — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) is a valuable bulb crop, known for its rich bioactive compounds and health benefits. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of various foliar spray treatments on the growth, yield and quality of garlic cv. Ooty 2. The treatments included a control, 100 ppm, 200 ppm and 300 ppm of salicylic acid, cycocel at 1000 ppm and ethrel 200, 300 ppm sprayed at 45 and 60 days after planting. The experiment was conducted using a randomized block design with 7 treatments and 3 replications. Results revealed that salicylic acid 300 ppm increased growth traits followed by ethrel 300 ppm over the control. Cycocel 1000 ppm showed that high bulb yield and less reduction in quality characters viz., TSS (39.2 ?Brix), acidity (0.38 %), ascorbic acid (11.25 mg 100 g-1), total carbohydrate (39.82 g 100 g-1) and phenolics (4.10 mg 100 g-1) content during 3 months storage period, followed by ethrel 300 ppm. Additionally lowest levels of physiological loss in weight (17.47 %), rubbering (5.13 %), rotting (5.88 %) and total loss (23.64 %) was observed compared to all other treatments during the storage period. The results indicate that cycocel at 1000 ppm had the most beneficial effects and can be effectively used to enhance the harvest, post-harvest traits and quality and storability of garlic bulbs.

Effect of different concentrations of soil and foliar applied zinc, boron and iron fertilizers on seedling growth, chlorophyll content and productivity of chickpea seedlings under semi-arid environment

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The effectiveness of zinc (Zn), boron (B), and iron (Fe) is reduced in semi-arid regions, which can lead to a deficiency of these nutrients and inhibit chickpea productivity. In this work, three field experiments were executed over two years where soil and foliar applications of Zn, B, and Fe were carried out, including controls (Zn0, B0, and F0), soil application at 4.125 kg/ha (Zn-1, B1, and F1) and 8.25 kg/ha (Zn-2, B2, and F2), and foliar spay at 0.3% at flowering initiating (Zn-3, B3, and F3) and one week after flowering initiation (Zn-4, B4, and F4, respectively). The results indicate that the deficiency of these nutrients inhibited chickpea growth and yield, leading to a reduction in the pigment contents. Nonetheless, soil and foliar application of Zn, B, and Fe significantly improved growth, chlorophyll contents, and yield, showing a dose-dependent effect. The best results were recorded for Zn-3, B2, and F2 treatments which significantly (P<0.05) increased shoot length (20.96-85.19%), root length (42.85-93.65%), shoot fresh (23-76%) and root fresh weight (45-90.32%), compared with the control treatment. Chlorophyll parameters, including chlorophyll a and b contents, showed similar trends. Zn-3, B2, and F2 treatments significantly increased biological and grain yields, which were associated with higher values of the number of pods per plant and the number of seeds per pod. In a nutshell, we suggest that Zn foliar application at 0.3% at flowering initiation and soil application of B and Fe at 25 kg/ha are beneficial for improving the growth, pigment content, and overall productivity of chickpea.

Notes on the taxonomic status and re-lectotypification of Litseaiteodaphne (Lauraceae)

Tapas Chakrabarty, Anand Kumar, Partha Pratim Ghoshal — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Litseaiteodaphne (Nees) Hook.f., known endemic to Sri Lanka, is now synonymized with L. saligna (Nees) N.P. Balakr. of northeast India and Bangladesh, and thus revealing a curious disjunct distribution. The name Tetrantheraiteodaphne Nees the basionym of L. iteodaphne has been re-lectotypified.

Long-term analysis of reference evapotranspiration variations in the lower Bhavani basin

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Evapotranspiration is a crucial component of the hydrological cycle and is profoundly influenced by climate change. Assessing regional evapotranspiration changes is essential for effective water resource management. The study investigated the dynamics of reference evapotranspiration in the Lower Bhavani Basin, a region with diverse landscapes increasingly vulnerable to climatic variability. Reference evapotranspiration data from the Food and Agriculture Organization using the AgERA5 dataset was analyzed to assess annual and seasonal trends from 2000 to 2022. The result showed that the mean yearly reference evapotranspiration in the basin is 1672.87 mm, with a significant decline of 3.53 mm per year. Seasonal analysis revealed a consistent decreasing trend across all seasons, with the southwest monsoon season showing the most significant reduction in evapotranspiration rates. The notable shift in the annual evapotranspiration rate was observed in 2016, highlighting the impact of climate change. Further, temperature, solar radiation and relative humidity were identified as the dominant factors influencing evapotranspiration rates in the basin. The relative moisture index indicated prevalent dry conditions, making the region susceptible to water stress. The findings provide critical insights for regional water resources management and accentuate the need for sustainable water management strategies to mitigate the impacts of climate change.

Effects of acute gamma irradiation on the morphology of Curcuma alismatifolia ‘Siam Shadow’ and C. alismatifolia ‘Siam Scarlet’

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Curcuma alismatifolia (Pathumma in Thailand), also known as Siam Tulip, is an economically valuable cut flower in Thailand and is continuously bred to enhance its captivating array of colors. This study aimed to investigate the effects of acute gamma irradiation on 2 cultivars of C. alismatifolia ‘Siam Shadow’ and C. alismatifolia ‘Siam Scarlet’ for in vitro propagation and determination of the lethal dose 50 (LD₅₀). The irradiation was conducted at doses of 0, 20, 30, 40 and 80 Gy using young shoots tissue culture. The results of the experiment revealed that the LD₅₀ for ‘Siam Shadow’ could not be determined while ‘Siam Scarlet’ was 29.06 Gy. ‘Siam Shadow’ exhibited chimera leaf formation when exposed to a gamma irradiated dose of 40 Gy, while ‘Siam Scarlet’ exhibited chimera leaf formation when gamma irradiated at doses of 20 Gy in vitro. After planting in a greenhouse, ‘Siam Shadow’ was irradiated with 30 Gy of gamma irradiated, had reduced bract numbers and the bracts became smaller. Conversely, ‘Siam Scarlet’ irradiated with 20 Gy of gamma irradiated, produced smaller inflorescences with only 2 bracts, while irradiation with 30 Gy resulted in 2 lobes and spotted leaves at the edges of the leaves. The results indicated that both the C. alismatifolia cultivars and gamma irradiation rates had a significant influence on survival rate, number of shoots, plant height, chlorophyll mutants and morphology. As the outcome, it was determined that gamma irradiation with optimum doses of gamma rays could induce new characteristics in C. alismatifolia.

Molecular characterization of Begomovirus and Beta satellite virus associated with leaf curl disease of Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) in southern parts of Tamil Nadu

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Chilli is one of the widely cultivated commercial vegetable crops in India. Chilli leaf curl is the most devasting disease and causes a yield loss of 100 per cent in Chilli. Fourteen begomovirus species cause chilli leaf curl disease (ChiLCD). An extensive survey was carried out in 2023 to determine the prevalence of the leaf curl disease of Chilli caused by begomovirus in major chilli-growing areas of the Southern Districts of Tamil Nadu. During the survey, 21 isolates of begomovirus infecting Chilli were collected. Among the 21 isolates, the isolate collected from Kalakudi village (BV-KI) exhibited severe symptoms.DNA extracted from 21 isolates of begomovirus were subjected to PCR by using Rojas universal primers, Chilli leaf curl virus (ChiLCV) Coat protein primers and beta satellite virus primers and obtained 1380 bp, 1100 bp and 1400 bp amplicons of top and coat protein region of DNA-A of begomovirus, Chilli leaf curl virus coat protein region and beta satellite virus associated with ChiLCV respectively. The 1380 bp, 1100 bp and 1400 bp amplicons obtained from the BV-KI isolate were sequenced and submitted to the NCBI. The sequences were blast analyzed, and it showed that the nucleotide sequence of the top and coat protein region of DNA-A of begomovirus and CP gene of ChiLCV BV-KI isolate was found to have 90.61 and 99.78% similarity with Bhavanisagar (NC 055130.1) isolate respectively. The nucleotide sequence of the beta satellite virus of BV-KI isolate was found to have 99.93% similarity with the Chilli leaf curl beta satellite virus Meerut (MH355642.1) isolate.

Growth and initiation of third stage of immature oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) by giving oil palm frond compost and paclobutrazol

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The third stage of immature oil palm is the phase where the plants enter preparation for flowering, so efforts are needed to initiate flowering, one of which is by using plant growth regulators (PGR) such as paclobutrazol. It is expected that the use of oil palm fronds as compost and application to oil palm plants can support sustainable oil palm management activities. Paclobutrazol, as a growth regulator, plays a role in stimulating the flowering of immature oil palm plants. This research aims to determine the response to the growth and development of immature oil palm plants in the third stage by administering palm frond compost and paclobutrazol at certain doses and concentrations. The experiment was carried out from June to December 2020 at the Ciparanje Experimental Garden, Faculty of Agriculture, Padjadjaran University. The experimental design used was a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 12 treatments and three replications. The experimental results showed that the application of compost to oil palm fronds and paclobutrazol had a significant effect on plant height and stem girth, but there were no significant differences in the number of fronds, leaf area, chlorophyll index, and flowers. All treatments did not produce flower shoots but showed inhibition of vegetative growth in immature oil palm plants in the third stage. The application of 12.8 kg of oil palm frond compost and 150 ppm paclobutrazol had the best effect on the height and girth of the oil palm stem and had an effect that was not significantly different from other treatments on the parameters of a number of fronds, leaf area, leaf chlorophyll, and flower growth.

Evaluation of the efficacy of some organic substances to induce resistance in cucumber against root knot nematode, Meloidogyne spp.

Haneen K. Al_Gharawi , Saad T. A. Yaas — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The study aimed to evaluate the impact of certain biofertilizers on some growth parameters, total chlorophyll content and the concentrations of enzymes phenylalanine amino-lyase (PAL) and peroxidase (POX) pre and post infestation of cucumber with root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.). The results demonstrate that supplementing substances before or after nematode infection resulted in enhanced growth parameters of cucumbers, including shoot growth, fresh and dry weight of root, total chlorophyll content and the concentrations of the enzymes PAL and POX, with significant differences compared to non-infected plants. Among those that showed a positive effect were ascorbic acid, K₂HPO₄, liquid earthworms, crushed fertilizer and compost. Among the test biofertilizers evaluated, the liquid vermicompost proved to be the standout performer compared to the other treatments, demonstrating the most substantial growth improvements such as the highest increase in both shoot fresh weight (44.67 g per plant) and dry weight (5.93 g per plant). Additionally, this treatment resulted in a remarkable 83.00 % increase in total chlorophyll content and a significant increase in PAL and POX enzyme activity (18.25 and 25.29 IU g^-1 respectively).

Phylogenetic evaluation and haplotype mapping of phytoplasma disease in sesame: insights into leafhopper-mediated disease transmission through molecular investigation

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The predominance of leafhopper species like Orosius albicinctus, Hishimonus phycitis, and Amrasca biguttula biguttula indeed poses a significant threat to sesame production in India and globally. This disease is a major challenge for sesame farming, as it can lead to yield reductions of up to 95%. The current study examined phytoplasma and leafhoppers in sesame and analyzed the phylogenetic differences in the phyllody phytoplasma. The identification of both 16Sr group I and group II phytoplasma isolates, along with the discovery of the 16SrI-B group reported for the first time in Tamil Nadu, represents a significant advancement in our understanding of phytoplasma diversity in the region. The utilization of virtual RFLP analysis in sequencing the sesame phyllody phytoplasma highlights the importance of molecular techniques in characterizing the phytoplasma. Leafhoppers in sesame were a co-occurring species complex of O. albicinctus, H. phycitis, and A. bigutulla bigutulla. The leafhoppers were identified using species-specific taxonomical traits, and a mtCOI gene-based genetic study confirmed the species. In disease transmission efficiency studies in the greenhouse, O. albicinctus transmitted phyllody at a rate ranging from 7.8% to 84%, while H. phycitis transmitted phyllody at a rate of 5.2% to 74%. Both of these species showed the highest transmission efficiency in the combination of three insects per plant with five days of acquisition feeding and one day of inoculation feeding. A comprehensive understanding of leafhopper-phytoplasma interactions through molecular studies supports effective monitoring, early detection, and the development of integrated pest management strategies.

Green synthesis and antibacterial potency of Ag/CuO/ZnO nanoparticles derived from Psidium guajava L. extracts

Richa Bhardwaj, Devyani Naruka, Neha Kapoor, Lokesh Gambhir — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Nanoparticles, characterized by their unique physicochemical properties, represent a significant frontier in interdisciplinary research, particularly within the realms of biomedicine and environmental science. This investigation delves into the eco-friendly synthesis of silver (Ag), copper oxide (CuO) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles utilizing extracts derived from Psidium guajava L. The utilization of these botanical extracts presents a sustainable alternative to traditional nanoparticle fabrication methodologies, aligning with global sustainability imperatives and fostering environmentally conscious practices. The escalating global nanoparticle market, valued at over $30 billion in 2020 and projected to surpass $90 billion by 2027, underscores the economic significance and industrial relevance of nanoparticle research. This research trajectory fuels innovation across a spectrum of sectors, including healthcare, cosmetics and environmental remediation. The commercialization of nanoparticle-based products not only drives substantial revenue streams but also catalyzes advancements in research, development and manufacturing endeavors. Drawing upon aqueous extracts sourced from P. guajava., leaves and fruits, this study capitalizes on their inherent phytochemical composition to serve as stabilizing, reducing and capping agents during nanoparticle synthesis. Employing state-of-the-art characterization techniques such as UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR spectroscopy, FE-SEM and EDS facilitates a comprehensive analysis of the synthesized nanoparticles' physicochemical attributes. Assessment of the nanoparticles' antibacterial efficacy against gram-positive (Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli, Proteus vulgaris) bacterial strains reveals compelling results. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) elucidate notable efficacy, notably against P. vulgaris (3.75 mg/mL), S. aureus (7.5 mg/mL) and B. subtilis (10 mg/mL and 12.5 mg/mL), indicative of their potential biomedical applications in combating microbial infections.

A new species of Pythium hydnosporum as a pathogen associated with vine decline of melon (Cucumis melo L.) in Iraq

Rebwar A. Mustafa — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Several pathogenic fungi have become an important vine decline of cantaloupe melone (Cucumis melo L.). In 2021, root rot on cantaloupe was observed during the harvest phase in the fields in Penjwen and Shahrazoor in Sulaimani governorate of Northern Kurdistan region Iraq. This present study was conducted to isolate the causal agent of fungi in lesions of root rot of cantaloupe. A total of 16 fungal isolates were obtained of which isolates Monosporascus cannonballus, M. eutypoides, Acremonium vitellinium, Fusarium oxysporium, F. equiseti, Macrophomina phaseolina, Saccharomyces kudriavzevii, F. robinianum, Rhizopus arrhizus, Botrytis cinerea, Cytospora eucalypticola, F. falciforme, Pythium hydnosporum, Alternaria tenuissima, Rhizoctonia solani and Phytophthora colocasiae were obtained from root melon. Identification of all fungal isolates was based on using both morphological characteristics and molecular analysis, on internal transcribed spacer (ITS1, ITS4, LSU) are primers that are used for identification. DNA sequences of the fungal pathogen were identified as Pythium hydnosporum a new pathogenic fungi causal agent of cantaloupe vine decline. A pathogenicity test was conducted to verify Koch's postulates and P. hydnosporum was observed to cause root rot of melon, symptoms of the disease were similar to those seen in the field.

Computation of evapotranspiration using crop simulation models and comparison with leaf area index from multiple sources

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The study demonstrated the computation of evapotranspiration (ET) in cultivation of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea) through the application of crop simulation models, alongside a comparative analysis with leaf area index (LAI) from various sources. The cultivation period for groundnut was conducted during the calendar year 2023, during which 2 distinct growth patterns were noted, attributed to variations in environmental conditions. The study analyses the estimated evapotranspiration from AquaCrop model, utilizing crop coefficient (Kc) values in comparison with evapotranspiration data derived from satellite observations provided by the MOD16A2v061 product. Furthermore, LAI was measured through 3 methodologies: an empirical equation based on field data, the Li-Cor 2200 plant canopy analyzer and LAI calculations derived from cloud-free normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI). LAI obtained from Li-Cor 2200 instrument exhibited a higher degree of consistency in correlation with empirical LAI derived from ground observations. Conversely, LAI values calculated using the normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) demonstrated a greater degree of variability, especially during times of cloud cover. The study emphasizes the relationship between LAI and ET and magnitude of LAI in amount of total evapotranspiration.

Leveraging cluster and PCA analysis to uncover key soil and environmental drivers for groundnut cultivation in the Kharif and Rabi seasons

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The cultivation of groundnut, which is crucial for its protein-rich kernels and edible oil, is highly sensitive to variations in soil moisture, particularly under rainfed conditions. The objective of the present study is to improve the accuracy of soil moisture monitoring by using principal component analysis (PCA) and clustering to analyze data from sensor and satellite sources. In addition to the use of satellite images from SMAP, ERA5 and Sentinel 1A in addition to in situ sensor data, this study was carried out at the Oil Seed Research Station in Tindivanam. Important factors, such as soil moisture, potential evaporation (PET) and volumetric water content (VWC) were examined at various crop stages. According to PCA, VWC at different depths and soil moisture data clustered closely during the Kharif season, indicating substantial relationships. A significant loading on the first component (PC1) explained 51.26 % of the variance. The significance of soil moisture and PET was highlighted by cluster analysis, which revealed four major clusters with strong intracluster relationships. On the other hand, PCA for the Rabi season revealed that ERA5-SM, WS and ST were crucial, with PC1 accounting for 67.53 % of the variation. Three clusters were found in the cluster analysis for Rabi, highlighting the significance of ST and WS in crop development. A study of the seasons revealed that during Kharif, soil moisture and evaporation were crucial, whereas during Rabi, soil temperature and wind speed had greater impacts. This emphasizes how vital it is to apply season-appropriate agronomic techniques to maximize crop productivity and resource efficiency.

Seven new additions to euglenoid flora of India from petroleum hydrocarbon contaminated water bodies of Naga- Schuppen thrust belt

Bishmita Boruah, Partha Pratim Baruah — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Comprehensive explorations were conducted along the Naga- Schuppen thrust belt of Northeast India, a hydrocarbon province of Southeast Asia, during the years 2021-2023 which revealed altogether 7 new distributional records of freshwater Euglenophycean species for India. Out of the 7 identified taxa, Phacus corculum, Menoidium tremulum, Trachelomonas crispa, Trachelomonas corniformis, Trachelomonas nadsonii and Trachelomonas rugulosa var. obliqua are found to be newly reported algal species not only from India but from the entire Southeast Asia province. All the reported Euglenophyte flora belongs to 2 classes, 2 orders and 3 families. In addition, the systematic accounts of all these species are discussed in detail.

Physiological and enzyme dynamics of tomato under drought stress

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Climate change leads to an increase in the frequency and severity of droughts, which have a negative impact on agriculture by altering plant growth and lowering water availability, placing food production systems at risk of sustainability. In order to improve drought resistance and ensure food security in the face of growing water shortages, this research was conducted to determine the physiological and enzymatic responses of tomato plants to drought stress. This study was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, involving 3 hybrids, viz., H1: EC169966 × LE118, H2: EC177824 × LE118 and H3: Arka Ashish × LE 27, along with their parents, P1: EC177824, P2: LE27, P3: EC169966, P4: LE118 and P5: Arka Ashish, under 50 % and 100 % field capacity conditions in factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) with 3 replications. Results indicated a significant change in physiological and enzymactic activities. Here, the parent P2 and hybrid H2 showed superior tolerance, with higher relative water content, proline, leaf water potential, membrane and chlorophyll stability index. Added to that, the response of enzyme activities including peroxidase, nitrate reductase, catalase, polyphenol oxidase and superoxide dismutase was found to be increase notably in drought-tolerant hybrids and parents, which correlated strongly with physiological markers of drought resistance. These modifications highlight the capacity of some genotypes to preserve photosynthetic efficiency and cellular integrity in water-limited environments. The results highlight the significance of choosing and developing drought-tolerant cultivars in order to maintain agricultural production in areas vulnerable to drought and address issues related to global food security.

Tagging of Yellow Mosaic Virus resistance gene using SSR markers in Black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper)

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Black gram is one of the most important pulse crops grown in India. The productivity of black gram is very low as it is cultivated in marginal lands with less care. Yellow mosaic virus disease in black gram is a serious concern as the yield reduction varies from 30 -100%. Breeding and cultivation of resistant varieties is the potential option to minimize yield reduction. However, the breakdown of resistance due to the evolution of new pathotypes in resistant varieties through conventional breeding leads to the adopting of biotechnological tools such as marker-assisted breeding. Identifying molecular markers linked with YMV resistance paved the way for changing black gram varieties with durable resistance. In the present study, 72 RILs developed by crossing the black gram lines ADT 3 and KKM 15052 as susceptible and resistant parents were used as mapping populations to tag YMV resistance with SSR markers. Among the 72 RILs screened for YMV resistance, 7 RILs (1,2,14,39,55,66 and 67) were resistant to YMV. Of 69 SSR markers, 14 were polymorphic between ADT 3 and KKM 15052. Single-marker analysis showed a significant association of the VR 086, VR 148 and CEDG 186 markers with YMV resistance. Bulked Segregant Analysis (BSA) confirmed that the SSR markers VR 046 and VR 148 are linked with the genes conferring resistance to YMV in KKB 15052.

Morphophysiological adaptations and fragrance profile analysis of two relocated orchid species

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study investigates the morpho-physiological adaptations and fragrance profiles of 2 relocated orchid species, Cattleya aclandiae x Brassavola Little star (V1) and Dendrobium var. Meesangnil (V2), following their translocation from Nagercoil to Coimbatore, India. The research aims to elucidate the mechanisms underlying successful acclimatization of these fragrant orchids to a new environment, with implications for horticulture, conservation and therapeutic applications. Comprehensive analyses were conducted on vegetative growth parameters, flowering characteristics, physiological responses and volatile organic compound (VOC) profiles. Morphological assessments revealed distinct adaptive strategies between the 2 species, with Dendrobium exhibiting superior vertical growth (39.13 cm) and leaf production (9 leaves/plant), while Cattleya developed larger leaves (30.483 cm length, 7.178 cm breadth) and longer internodes (5.061 cm). Flowering characteristics also differed significantly, with Cattleya demonstrating earlier spike emergence and floret opening. Physiological analyses using a CI-340 Handheld Photosynthesis System showed higher photosynthetic rates, transpiration rates and stomatal conductance in Dendrobium, suggesting a more resource-acquisitive strategy. Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis identified unique VOC profiles for each species, with 30 compounds detected in both varieties, including notable compounds such as n-Hexadecanoic acid, Octadecanoic acid and beta-Sitosterol. The study also explored potential applications in therapeutic horticulture, highlighting the diverse sensory and educational value of these orchid species. This comprehensive analysis of morphological, physiological and biochemical adaptations provides valuable insights into orchid acclimation processes and their potential for conservation and horticultural applications, contributing to our understanding of plant adaptability in the face of environmental changes and offering a foundation for future studies on orchid biology, ecology and therapeutic uses.

Naphthalene acetic acid and 6- benzylaminopurine induced phenolics, flavonoids and terpenoids in shoot cultures of Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze and callus cultures of Ocimum basilicum L.

Riddhi Mavani, Karan Rana, Parth Pandya, Monisha Kottayi — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Mesosphaerum suaveolens (L.) Kuntze and Ocimum basilicum L. are sources of biologically important components like phenolics, flavonoids and terpenoids. These commonly growing wild plants with enormous medicinal value, have been mostly overlooked and used only as hedges for other economical crops. In vitro propagation of these plants would help to study the effect of different media components on important metabolites, including essential oils, pigments, antioxidants, food and flavouring agents which are of economic value. This study was focused on understanding the best suitable protocol and medium for the establishment of in vitro cultures of Mesosphaerum suaveolens and Ocimum basilicum. The work also focused on germination studies in both plants as a pre-requisite for culturing. The next focus was to understand how the culture conditions affected the amount of phenolics, flavonoids and terpenoids. Seedlings of M. suaveolens and fresh leaves of O. basilicum were inoculated and shoot cultures and callus cultures were obtained from them respectively, with different concentrations and combinations of Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) and 6-Benzylaminopurine (BAP). The treatments used in the study for both plants were 0.5 mg/mL, 1.0 mg/mL, 1.5 mg/mL, 2.0 mg/mL, 2.5 mg/mL, 3.0 mg/mL, 3.5 mg/mL and 4.0 mg/mL each of NAA and BAP in combination. Among all the above combinations of the growth hormones on MS medium, 2.0 mg/mL combined concentration of NAA and BAP showed the highest biomass accumulation with the Total Phenolics Content (TPC) value of 17.58 ± 0.32 mg GAE/ g DW, Total Flavonoids Content (TFC) of 11516 ± 176.1 mg Quercetin/g DW and Total Terpenoids Content (TTC) of 80.25 ± 1.183 mg Linalool/g DW in M. suaveolens and 2.5 mg/mL combined concentration of NAA and BAP showed the highest biomass accumulation with the TPC value of 15.79 ± 0.13 mg GAE/g DW, TFC- 9513 ± 68.41 mg Quercetin/g DW and TTC of 75 ± 1.093 mg Linalool/g DW in O. basilicum. The levels of phenolics and terpenoids were higher in M. suaveolens whereas the levels of flavonoids were higher in O. basilicum. This study would help in further understanding other aspects of plant defense in these plants grown in vitro.

Effect of planting distance and nitrogen fertilizer on the yield and physiological traits of Pinto bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Mohammad Sadiq Merzai, Mohammad Wali Salari, Rahmatullah kazimi — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

To investigate the influence of planting distance and nitrogen fertilizer levels on yield and yield components of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) cultivars, a study was conducted in 2021 at the educational and research farm of the Daikundi Higher Education Institute. Employing a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) Split-Plot arrangement with 2 replications, the research examined 4 planting distances (10, 15, 20 and 25 cm) as the primary factor and 3 nitrogen fertilizer levels (0, 50 and 100 kg N/ha) as the secondary factor. The analysis revealed that the highest seed yield for common beans, averaging 1220 kg/ha, was obtained with a planting distance of 25 cm and a nitrogen application rate of 100 kg N/ha. Conversely, the lowest yield, averaging 773 kg/ha, was recorded at the narrowest planting distance of 10 cm without nitrogen fertilization. Agronomic and physiological traits, such as increased total dry matter and leaf relative water content, were observed to positively correlate with grain yield in pinto beans. In contrast, reduced planting row spacing adversely affected seed yield, harvest index, phonological stages and other common bean characteristics, particularly at seeding stage. However, the application of 100 kg N/ha significantly improved certain measured traits. Based on these findings, the study recommends a combined agronomic practice of applying 100 kg N/ha and maintaining a planting row distance of 25 cm for optimal management of common bean crops in the Nili center of Daikundi province.

Effect of probiotics 'Bio-health' and foliar fertilization with zinc sulfate on growth and yield of okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)

Hussain Muter Hussain , Zainab Hassan Thajeel — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The experiment was conducted in a private field in Jaflawiya, Al-Mishkhab District, Najaf Governorate, for the spring season 2021, to study the effect of soil application with probiotics Bio health and foliar fertilization with aqueous zinc sulfate on some vegetative growth characteristics and yield of okra Husainawia variety. The experiment was a factorial experiment according to Randomized Complete Block Design (R.C.B.D.) with 2 factors and 3 replicates. The first factor was ground application with probiotics Bio health at 3 levels (0, 2500, 5000 g ha-1) and the second factor is the foliar spraying of zinc in (ZnSO4.7H20) using 3 concentrations (0, 75 and 150 mg L-1). Both factors were applied 3 times during the growing season. The first application was in the stage of 4 true leaves and zinc was sprayed a week later. The second and third were 30 and 60 days after the first addition respectively. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed and the averages were compared using the least significant difference test. Least Significant Difference Test (L.S.D.) at 0.05 probability level. The highest results were recorded in the treatment of adding the Bio health at a level of 5000 g ha-1, which led to the highest rates of vegetative growth indicators, quantitative and qualitative yield and chemical indicators, including plant height, leaf area, knot ratio, number of pods, total yield, nitrogen and phosphorous ratio in pods, zinc content in pods and protein % in pods. In general, the ground application of Bio health at 5000 g ha-1 with zinc 150 mg L-1 significantly outperformed most of the single and interaction treatments. It gave the highest significant increase in vegetative growth indicators, yield, chemical and qualitative indicators.

Assessment of Combining Ability and Heterosis for Seed Yield and its Attributes in Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.)

B K Sharron, R Sasikala, R Kalaiyarasi, S Harish, K Vanitha — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The present study employed three lines and fifteen testers to assess the combining ability and standard heterosis of forty-five hybrids developed through a line × tester mating design. The analysis of variance for combining ability revealed significant variation in the mean sum of squares of parents, testers and the interaction between lines and testers regarding seed yield per plant and its related traits. Among the parents, testers GMU 498 and RHA 378 exhibited superior performance for seed yield/plant. In the hybrids, COSF 6A×CSFI 1862, HA 89A×GMU 1000 and HA 89A×RHA 378 demonstrated significantly better seed yield per plant compared to the checks. The variance for specific combining ability (SCA) exceeded that for general combining ability (GCA), indicating that all traits were governed by non-additive gene action. Among the lines, COSF 12A was identified as a good general combiner for yield-contributing traits, while the testers CSFI 1862, GMU 1000 and GMU 498 were recognized as good general combiners for seed yield per plant. Five hybrids, namely HA 89A × RHA 378, HA 89A × GMU 1000, COSF 12A × CSFI 1855, COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 and COSF 12A × GMU 311, exhibited significantly positive SCA for seed yield per plant. Heterosis over the standard checks (DRSH 1, COH 3 and GK 2002) was estimated and the hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 showed positive significant heterosis for seed yield per plant and related traits. The promising hybrids HA 89A × GMU 1000, HA 89A × RHA 378 and COSF 6A × CSFI 1862 were selected based on their mean performance, SCA effects and standard heterosis for seed yield per plant and its attributes.

Optimizing agro-waste substrates for enhanced enzymatic production in ethnomedicinal mushroom Lentinus squarrosulus Mont.

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The ethnomedicinal subtropical mushroom Lentinus squarrosulus Mont. is a polypore with high wood-degrading potential. This study aimed to collect L. squarrosulus isolates, analyze lignocellulolytic enzymes - Laccase (Lac), Lignin peroxidase (LiP) and Manganese peroxidase (MnP) and evaluate substrates for mass production. Sporophores of Lentinus sp. (Isolate L1 to L5) were collected from different regions of Tamil Nadu and characterized morphologically and molecularly. Qualitative screening tests with guaiacol substrate demonstrated the production of laccase by all the isolates; however, isolate L3 showed maximum reddish-brown zonation. Additionally, isolate L3 produced the highest green colouration on the ABTS (2,2’-azino-bis 3-ethylbenzthiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) substrate. This confirmed the oxidation of ABTS to ABTS-azine in the presence of laccase, outperforming the other L. squarrosulus isolates. All the isolates tested with Azure-B agar for LiP and MnP showed faint discolouration, suggesting lower secretion of peroxidase enzymes. Quantitative analysis using a lignolysis basal medium also confirmed that isolate L3 secreted Lac predominantly, followed by LiP and MnP enzymes extracellularly. All isolates showed peak Lac activity at pH 4.5, while LiP and MnP production were highest at pH 5.0. The optimal temperature for all lignolytic enzymes was 28±2ºC. Maximum laccase secretion occurred between the 5th - 7th day after inoculation (DAI), with LiP and MnP peaking at 7 DAI. Nine agro-waste substrates were evaluated, with isolate L3 showing the highest biological efficiency on Paddy straw (99.62%), followed by Arecanut sheath (97.43%) and Groundnut shell (95.15%). This study enhances our understanding of L. squarrosulus enzymatic capabilities. It provides insights for mass production, which has strong potential for industrial bioremediation and waste management due to its high laccase production.

Comparative phytochemical analysis, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of rhizome and leaves of Curcuma caesia Roxb. and Curcuma longa L.

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Turmeric is a well-known medicinal herb used for traditional and medicinal purposes since ancient times. It is also an important ingredient in the cosmetic, food and pharmaceutical industries. Two common species, Curcuma longa L. (yellow turmeric) and Curcuma caesia Roxb. (black turmeric), are noted for their medicinal potential. However, commercially, yellow turmeric is more extensively explored than black turmeric. In the present study, a comparative phytochemical analysis was conducted, along with in vitro anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity assessment of the rhizome and leaves of both yellow and black turmeric. GC-MS and FTIR analysis revealed a wide range of phytocompounds with known medicinal properties in both yellow and black turmeric rhizome. The presence of biologically significant phytocompounds such as methyl stearate, glycidyl oleate, curcumenol and eucalyptol in higher proportion in the rhizome of C. caseia compared to yellow turmeric supports further exploration of the commercial and medicinal potential of C. caseia. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory analyses indicated that the rhizome of C. caseia possesses anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities comparable to those of C. longa. This study also reports the presence of bioactive metabolites in the leaves of both black and yellow turmeric, along with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities in the leaves comparable to their respective rhizomes. These findings suggest that turmeric leaves could be as significant as turmeric rhizomes for medicinal and industrial applications.

Enhancing the insecticidal efficacy of Allium sativum extracts through microencapsulation via complex coacervation

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Garlic (Allium sativum L.) has been widely studied for its insecticidal properties. The primary bioactive molecule in garlic extracts include allicin, alliin, S-allylcysteine, diallyl disulfide, diallyl trisulfide, diallyl sulfide and ajoene. However, these compounds degrade under environmental conditions once extracted. This study aimed to enhance the effectiveness of garlic extracts in controlling Tenebrio molitor by optimizing microencapsulation techniques. The garlic extracts were encapsulated using the complex coacervation method, with independent variables including pH levels (3, 6 and 9), whey protein isolate (WPI) (4 %, 6 % and 8 % w/v) and pectin (0.50 %, 0.75 % and 1.00 % w/v). A Taguchi L9 (33) orthogonal array was employed to design 9 treatments, and T. molitor mortality was assessed 72 h after a 10 sec immersion of the insects in the treatments. Statistical analysis revealed that WPI had the most significant influence (24.52 %), followed by pH (18.82 %) and pectin (7.79 %). The interaction between pH and pectin had the greatest effect on the encapsulation process, accounting for 38.65 % of the influence. The optimal microencapsulation conditions were predicted by software to be pH 3, a pectin concentration of 0.75 % w/v and a WPI concentration of 4.00 % w/v, resulting in a signal-to-noise (S/N) ratio of 42.30. Experimental validation of these conditions produced an S/N ratio of 18.54, corresponding to a T. molitor mortality rate of 92 % ± 4.47 %. The resulting microcapsules had diameters ranging from 1–5 ?m. Complex coacervation is a highly promising method for microencapsulating garlic extracts and preserving their insecticidal properties.

Principal Component Analysis in rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties for three seasons in Annamalai Nagar, an east coast region of Tamil Nadu

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to assess genetic variability and identify key yield-contributing traits among 50 rice genotypes evaluated over three seasons under saline conditions. The study aimed to select promising donor lines for developing salt-tolerant, high-yielding cultivars suitable for coastal regions. PCA identified three principal components (PCs) that explained 73.19%, 70.34%, and 64.81% of the total genetic variation in seasons 1, 2 and 3, respectively. Key plant attributes, such as grain yield per plant, panicle grain density, total tiller number, and productive tiller count, showed significant positive associations with PC1 across various growth stages, underscoring their crucial role in explaining the genetic diversity among the genotypes. Plant height, panicle length, and hundred-grain weight also emerged as major contributors to variation. The PCA biplots consistently demonstrated positive correlations between grain yield and traits like panicle length, hundred-grain weight, and tillering ability. In contrast, days to 50% flowering exhibited a negative association with yield. Genotypes G10, G49, G36, G41, G9, G4, G22, and G21 displayed favourable combinations of grain yield per plant, identifying them as potential donor lines for breeding programs aimed at improving rice yield and associated agronomic traits. This comprehensive PCA analysis highlights the effectiveness of the approach in capturing genotypic diversity and guiding the selection of promising germplasm for targeted trait improvement in rice.

Soursop (Annona muricata L.) in Indonesia: Biological evaluation, student perspective and internet trends

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The study provided an overview of soursop (Annona muricata L.) in Indonesia, covering taxonomy, phytochemicals, antimicrobial tests, college student perspectives, and internet trends. Taxonomy details were sourced from literature, and herbarium specimens were deposited in the herbaria. Phytochemical compounds were identified using a UV-Vis spectrophotometer, while antimicrobial activity was assessed through disc diffusion. Student perspectives were collected via questionnaires, and internet trends were tracked with Google Trends. Data on taxonomy, student perspectives, and internet trends were analyzed descriptively, while experimental data underwent Kruskal-Wallis testing. Soursop, originally from tropical America, was likely introduced to Indonesia before 1884 and is now widespread. Soursop leaf extract exhibited phenol (2554.22 mg/100g), flavonoid (5263.43 mg/100g), and tannin (1469.77 mg/100g) presence. The study demonstrated its potent antimicrobial properties at concentrations of 25%, 40%, 55%, and 70%, with a 6 mm growth inhibition zone. College students at Health Polytechnic of Denpasar identified 42 treatable diseases with soursop, with fidelity levels (FL) ranging from 2.7% to 48.65%. The highest FL was observed for gout. Leaf and fruit parts of soursop are commonly used in traditional medicine. The trend of internet searches regarding the utilization of soursop (January 2011–September 2023) peaked in January 2012 and then declined until 2023, with the majority of searches occurring in central-western Indonesia.

A Comprehensive study of wheat genotypes for combining ability and heritability in drought tolerance

Sandeep Kaur, Anupam Kumar — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A major challenge in wheat cultivation is the negative impact of water scarcity on growth and yield. Therefore, it is crucial to develop wheat varieties with both high productivity and resilience to drought stress to support food production and improve global food security. The study aims to identify general and specific combining abilities and to understand the genetic mechanisms responsible for key traits by employing half-diallel analysis. In the current study, a half-diallel set comprising 10 x 10 wheat genotypes was subjected to crosses in all feasible combinations, excluding reciprocals, under drought stress conditions. Significant mean squares were observed for both General Combining Ability (GCA) and Specific Combining Ability (SCA) components among the 10 parents and 45 F1 progenies across eleven traits. Assessment of variance components (s2g and s2s), narrow-sense heritability (Hn), broad-sense heritability (Hb) and the GCA/SCA ratio allowed for the determination of the relative contributions of additive and non-additive genetic components. High narrow-sense heritability was noted for traits such as days to 75 % flowering, spike length and biological yield, indicating their predominantly additive genetic control. Conversely, the remaining eight traits exhibited low narrow-sense heritability, suggesting their inheritance is primarily governed by non-additive genetic factors, thus indicating the potential benefits of heterosis breeding. Based on GCA effects, P5 demonstrated superior general combining ability across traits, except for biological yield. P1, P3, P8 and P9 exhibited better combining ability for grain yield per plant. Specific cross combinations including P7×P10, P3×P4 and P5×P6 displayed notable specific combining ability and could be leveraged to develop superior pure lines in subsequent breeding endeavors.

Genetic variability, character association and path analyses effects on fiber yield and yield attributing morpho-agronomic traits of tossa jute (Corchorus olitorius L.)

M J Alam, M M Mukul, A S M Yahiya, F Mahmud, M S R Bhuiyan — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Jute (Corchorus spp.) is a natural fiber crop having a lower extent of genetic variability due to its self-pollinating nature. The success of any breeding program for variety development primarily depends on the presence of genetic variation in the parental genotypes. A field experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design at ManikganjStation of Bangladesh Jute Research Institute (BJRI) during 2019-2020. The genetic divergence of 58 tossa jute (C. olitorius) genotypes including two pre-released standard varieties (O-9897, BJRI Tossa pat 4) and 56 accessions were studied to select genotypes having the most divergence in natural rainy condition. The jute genotypes were categorized into five clusters based on Mahalanobis D2 analysis. Cluster I and IV showed maximum inter-cluster distance (181.44) while the maximum intra-cluster distance (16.15) was recorded in cluster I. Cluster V revealed the highest values for number of nodes, stem mid-diameter, core diameter, green weight with leaves, dry stick weight and dry fiber weight per plant while cluster IV showed higher means for plant height, green bark thickness and leaf area. The highest contribution (47.14%) was wielded by plant height of total deviations. The results recommended that hybridization between genotypes of cluster V, IV and III could provide a wide range of discrepancies in the segregating generation which could offer chance for isolation of good genotypes with high fibre yielding lines.

Genetic fingerprinting distinguishes pathogenic variability of asiatic citrus canker pathogen, Xanthomonas citri pv. citri type A

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Citrus canker, caused by Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), is one of the most widespread citrus disease. In this study, 54 isolates of Xcc were obtained from citrus canker-infected leaves, twigs and fruit samples collected from various citrus-growing regions in Bangladesh. These isolates were analysed through pathogenicity tests and PCR amplification. The results revealed varying levels of aggressiveness among the isolates, ranging from weak to moderate and aggressive. No correlation was found between the host plants and their geographical locations. The genetic analysis of Xanthomonas isolates from around the world revealed 100 % similarity. All the Xanthomonas isolates were grouped into 2 major clusters. DNA fingerprinting showed high genetic variability, with no correlation between hosts, geographic locations or aggressiveness levels. This information on the population diversity of the citrus canker pathogen, Xanthomonas citri pv. citri (Xcc), will be valuable for developing sustainable management strategies for citrus cankers in Bangladesh and the broader Indian sub-continent region.

Additions to the angiosperm flora of Manipur, India

Kazhuhrii Eshuo, Sochanngam Kashung, Kaini Kholi — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The investigation into angiosperm flora has identified 5 flowering plants as a new record to Manipur state, northeast India: Amorphophallus napalensis (Wall.) Bogner & Mayo and Arisaema nephanthoides (Wall.) Mart. (Araceae), Impateins pulchra Hook. f. & Thomson (Balsaminaceae), Lonicera acuminata Wall. (Caprifoliaceae) and Silene baccifera (L.) Durande (Caryophyllaceae). Notably, the genus Silene is a new addition to the state’s flora. Detailed morphological descriptions and colour photo plates are provided for easy identification.

Assessment of genetic diversity among Ixora genotypes through morphological and RAPD molecular marker analysis

Akilan P, Visalakshi M, Manikanda Boopathi N, Sathiyamurthy V A, Vanitha K — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Ixora a genus in the Rubiaceae family commonly known as jungle geranium, was the focus of the study. However, classifying Ixora species has been challenging due to environmental influences on phenotypic traits. This study explores the genetic diversity and morphological traits of 11 Ixora genotypes from various regions in India using 15 RAPD markers and morphological assessments. A total of 210 bands were generated, Unweighted Pair Group Method for Arithmetic Average (UPGMA) Cluster analysis revealed significant genetic relationships among the genotypes. Notably, Genotypes 9, 10 and 11 shared similar banding patterns with marker OPF 02, while Genotypes 4 and 7, despite differing growth habits, showed close genetic ties and shared RAPD markers OPA03 and OPE04. A unique marker (OPA03 - 340 bp) was identified exclusively in Genotype 4. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) indicated that 2 principal components explained 77.074 % of the total variance, highlighting plant height and leaf number as significant traits. Heat map clustering further illustrated phenotypic variability, grouping genotypes based on morphological similarities. This study demonstrates the utility of RAPD markers in distinguishing Ixora genotypes and provides valuable insights into morphological traits, guiding future breeding programs and genetic research.

Estimation of genetic variability parameters and trait association in cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme)

M B Naveen Kumar, S K Nisha, S Sarada, O N Shruthy, G Gayathri, S L Lekshmi — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Cherry tomatoes are the smaller version of classic tomatoes but are valued for their sweet taste and captivating colors. They are highly favored by the urban elite and the chefs catering to high-profile restaurants. To formulate selection criteria for utilization in breeding programs, variability parameters, an association between different characters, and direct and indirect effects of component traits of 29 cherry tomato genotypes were assessed under polyhouse conditions. Sufficient genetic variability was found for the morphological and yield traits studied, as revealed by the variance analysis. Plant height, primary branches per plant, days to 50 percent flowering, flower clusters per plant, flowers per cluster, fruits per cluster, days to first harvest, fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit girth, fruit weight, locules per fruit, pericarp thickness, days to final harvest, yield per plant, total soluble solids, lycopene, ascorbic acid, reducing sugars and non-reducing sugars showed high estimates of heritability and genetic advance as percent of the mean. Correlation analysis demonstrated a significant positive relationship between fruit yield per plant and pericarp thickness (0.727), fruit length (0.685), fruit girth (0.536), fruit weight (0.530), and the number of fruits per cluster (0.386). Principal component analysis identified the primary component (PC1) as the main contributor to variance. Path analysis revealed that fruit length, pericarp thickness, number of fruits per plant, flowers per cluster, and fruit weight had the highest direct effect on yield. These traits were the key factors influencing fruit yield per plant in cherry tomatoes.

Synergistic effects of nitrogen and naphthalene acetic acid on growth, yield and nutritional content of Stevia (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni)

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Stevia farming in Bangladesh is increasingly significant due to limitations in cane sugar production and the rise in diabetic cases. This study examined how nitrogen and naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) affect Stevia development, production and nutritional content on the experimental farm of the regional station of the Bangladesh Sugarcrop Research Institute, Thakurgaon. Various nitrogen treatments (N1: untreated, N2: 105 kg ha-1, N3: 140 kg ha-1, N4: 175 kg ha-1, N5: 210 kg ha-1) and NAA applications (H1: untreated, H2: 50 mg/L, H3: 100 mg/L, H4: 150 mg/L) were administered employing a randomized complete block design (RCBD). Results showed that N3 and H3 treatments produced the highest yield, averaging 10.06 % more than other doses. Stevia leaf nutrients like nitrogen (3.47 %), potassium (0.19 %) and magnesium (0.15 %) were also influenced by N3H3 treatment. The study suggests that for Stevia cultivation in northern Bangladesh, an optimal nitrogen application rate of 140 kg ha-1 and an NAA concentration of 100 mg/L are recommended.

Chemical analysis of Viloa odorata L. (Fam. Violaceae) and the efficacy of its essential oil against some stored product insects

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The current experiment was carried out to assess the insecticidal activity of sweet violet (Viola odorata) essential oil against three major stored product insects (Tribolium castaneum, Rhyzopertha dominica and Sitophilus oryzae). The chemical composition of sweet violet essential oil in different cuts (first, second and third cut) of V. odorata grown in Al-Gharbia governorate, Egypt was determined. For the first cut, 73.825 % linolenic acid was the main component, while for second cut, 61.000 % linolenic acid was the main component and for the third cut, the main component was 75.419 % linolenic acid. The biomass yield was changed on different cuts. In the first cut, the yield was 15.500 ton/acre while it was 10.300 and 6.800 ton/acre for the second and the third cut respectively. In mixing with medium experiment, Triboleum castaneum was the most tolerant insect against violet absolute essential oil while after one day of exposure Rhizobirtha dominica was the most sensitive insect with LC50 of 53730 mg/kg. After 24 h of exposure in thin film experiment, R. dominica was found to be the most sensitive insect with LC50 of 475 mg/L. At the highest concentration (15000 mg/kg) there were no emerged adults for T. castaneum and S. oryzae while there were a mean of 0.33 emerged adults for R. dominica. The reduction was 100 % at the highest concentration for S. oryzae and T. castaneum while it was 99.53 % for R. dominica.

A comparative study of drone and manual herbicide application for weed management in wet direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A field experiment was conducted at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during the Navarai season (January-April) of 2024 to assess the efficiency of drone-based herbicide application in terms of weed control, energy use, and cost effectiveness in wet direct-seeded rice (Oryza sativa L.). The study compared the effectiveness of weed control using herbicide combinations applied as pre-emergence followed by early post-emergence, with both drone and knapsack sprayer. The treatments included the application of pretilachlor followed by early post-emergence bispyribac sodium, and pyrazosulfuron followed by penoxsulam + cyhalofop butyl, using both drone and knapsack sprayer. Additionally, weed-free and unweeded control plots were included. Results indicated that the application of pretilachlor followed by bispyribac sodium using a drone sprayer significantly reduced weed density and weed dry weight compared to the unweeded plot. This treatment also resulted in a higher grain yield (5286 kg ha^-1). Moreover, drone application of pretilachlor followed by bispyribac sodium provided a higher net return (? 51631/ha), benefit-cost ratio (2.17), energy-use efficiency (9.53), and energy productivity (0.30 kg/MJ). The experiment concluded that drone-based spraying of pretilachlor followed by bispyribac sodium is an effective weed management strategy for wet direct-seeded rice, offering superior yield attributes, energy use efficiency, and profitability.

Study on performance of cabbage (Brassica oleraceae var. capitata L.) under different production systems

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Coimbatore is located in the western part of Tamil Nadu and nestled against the foothills of the Western Ghats. This region's cool climate and favourable terrain make it ideal for cultivating hill vegetables. Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) is a significant cole crop known for its high nutritional value. Excessive chemical usage in cabbage cultivation leads to residual effects on soil and produce. This study aimed to identify the best production system for cabbage cultivation in the northwestern parts of Tamil Nadu. An experiment was conducted during the winter season of 2023-2024 at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design (RBD) with four treatments and five replications. The organic farming system exhibited the highest values for plant height (21.47 cm), stalk length (8.49 cm), dry matter accumulation (71.34 g per plant), days to head formation (18.75 days), days to harvest (56.25 days), head diameter (17.70 cm), head compactness (33.91), head weight (945.35 g per plant) and cabbage yield (24.92 t ha-1), surpassing both conventional and natural farming systems. A similar pattern was observed in quality parameters, including TSS (6.54 °Brix), shelf life (12.21 days) and ascorbic acid content (44.26 mg per 100 g). This study highlights an efficient cabbage cultivation system in the Coimbatore region, leading to improved yield, soil health and quality.

A multi-trait targeted genotype selection approach for screening drought tolerance in teosinte–maize hybrids

R Jaishreepriyanka, R Ravikesavan, K Iyanar, D Uma, N Senthil — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Drought tolerance is a complex characteristic and screening based on multiple traits rather than direct selection indices would result in more efficient selection. The study aims to select hybrids under optimal and water deficit conditions to achieve genetic gains in yield traits without compromising the other secondary traits viz., anthesis-silking interval, leaf chlorophyll content, delayed leaf rolling and leaf senescence, relative water content, and ROS scavenging using the multi-trait genotype ideotype distance index. The 30 teosinte-maize hybrids along with four checks were evaluated for two classes of traits: 16 morphometric and 14 physiological and biochemical traits, under well-watered (WW) and water-stress (WS) environments. Significant variations among the genotypes were observed for most traits and the presence of moderate to high heritability for most traits suggests direct selection for improvement of those traits. Significant correlation of the traits with yield and intercorrelations between traits indicate the advantage of indirect selection based on secondary traits. By assuming a selection intensity of 15% and equal weightage to all the traits, five genotypes were selected based on the MGIDI under each class of traits and in each environment. The genotypes viz. G19, G20, and G29 were commonly selected across both environments. The selection led to desired positive and negative selection gains for most of the traits studied and resulted in high positive gains for single plant yield of 35.6% under WW and 69.3% under WS. The strength and weakness plots effectively present the advantages and limitations of the selected genotypes under each environment. The multi-trait-based selection approach is an effective tool for selecting genotypes and designing breeding strategies for stress breeding.

Estimation of actual evapotranspiration using surface energy balance algorithm for land in the lower Bhavani basin

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Evapotranspiration is a vital process that substantially sustains the hydrothermal balance. The spatial and temporal distribution of evapotranspiration is critical for the management of water resources and drought monitoring at a regional scale. Surface Energy Balance Algorithm for Land (SEBAL) was employed to compute daily actual evapotranspiration in the lower Bhavani basin using Landsat 8 imagery, weather data and digital elevation model. The study aimed to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of evapotranspiration. In addition, the influence of surface parameters such as surface albedo, land surface temperature, normalized difference vegetation index and net radiation flux on evapotranspiration was also investigated. The results revealed that SEBAL estimates agreed to 86.5 per cent with pan evaporation. Surface evapotranspiration showed seasonal variability with lower rates during winter and recorded maximum evapotranspiration during summer. Land use classes such as flooded vegetation and water bodies were found to have higher rates of mean daily evapotranspiration, whereas bare soil had lower evapotranspiration. Net radiation was noticed to have a significant impact on daily evapotranspiration among surface parameters. Hence, SEBAL can produce accurate evapotranspiration estimates for the study area. Moreover, vegetation cover and hydrothermal conditions significantly affect the surface parameters, which considerably affect surface evapotranspiration.

Effect of Integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient uptake, yield and quality of improved black kavuni rice variety (CO57)

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The rising demand for high-quality rice and rice products motivates farmers to produce traditional rice varieties. Rice production needs to be substantially increased with suitable nutrient management practices to meet the demand. Hence, the present study was carried out to evaluate the influence of integrated nutrient management practices on nutrient yield and quality of improved black kavuni rice. The research was conducted during the Early kar (April-August 2023) and Late samba (September - January 2023-24) seasons in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications and twelve treatments consisting of N in equivalent basis with organic manure and inorganic fertilizers and one control. Based on an N equivalent basis, the required quantity of inorganic fertilizer, farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost (VC) and poultry manure (PM) were applied to rice. Observations on nutrient uptake, yield and quality were recorded, and the data were analyzed using LSD at a 5% probability level for significance differences. The results revealed that higher nutrient uptake, yield and quality parameters of rice were recorded with 50% recommended dose of nitrogen through inorganic fertilizer + 50% recommended dose of nitrogen through VC + foliar spray of 0.5% ZnSO4 & 1% FeSO4 at tillering, panicle initiation (PI) and flowering stage (T11).

Effect of fertigation scheduling and doses of NPK on growth, yield and quality of cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. var. cerasiforme) under protected condition

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

This study investigated the impact of different fertigation schedules on cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) cultivation in a controlled environment at TNAU, Coimbatore, India. A Completely Randomized Design with nine treatments and three replications was used, incorporating various combinations of soil application and fertigation with water-soluble fertilizers at 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% of the recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF). Critical parameters such as growth, phenological traits, yield, fruit quality, soil nutrient status, and plant nutrient uptake were evaluated. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, path coefficient analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA), were performed to assess treatment effects and identify relationships between variables. The results consistently demonstrated that fertigation with water-soluble fertilizers at 100% RDF (T3) yielded the best outcomes for most parameters, followed by 75% RDF fertigation (T4) and a combination of 25% soil application and 75% fertigation (T7). Significant improvements in plant growth, yield and fruit quality were observed with optimized fertigation compared to traditional soil application methods. T3 (100% RDF through fertigation) resulted in the highest plant height (263.95 cm), number of primary branches (15), leaf area (316.77 cm²) and dry matter production (96.85 kg/plant). Yield attributes such as fruits per plant (326.50), fruit weight (3.73 g), and total yield (23.95 t/ha) were also highest in T3. Path coefficient analysis indicated strong positive correlations between growth and yield parameters. PCA showed that the first principal component accounted for 85.9 % of the total variation. These findings highlight the potential for fertigation to improve resource use efficiency and productivity in cherry tomato cultivation.

Green synthesis, characterization and biological activity analysis of silver nanoparticles from commercially available root powder of Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth.

Shreya Agrawal, Nikita Negi, Neha Bhandari, Prachi Negi, Pooja Saklani — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Picrorhiza kurroa Royle ex Benth., a medicinal plant native to the alpine regions of the Himalayas, is renowned for its diverse therapeutic properties. Recently, green-synthesized silver nanoparticles have gained attention for their potential in pharmaceutical and industrial applications. In this study, silver nanoparticles (Pk-AgNPs) were synthesized using commercially available root powder of P. kurroa. The objective was to evaluate their potential biomedical applications by assessing their antioxidant properties and cytotoxicity. The Pk-AgNPs were characterized using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), which revealed their morphology and functional groups. The Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) of methanolic root extract of P. kurroa (PkRE) and the Pk-AgNPs was determined using the Phosphomolybdenum method. The results indicated that the antioxidant activity of PkRE was higher than that of the Pk-AgNPs. Moreover, the activity increased with concentration, ranging from 20 µg/mL to 120 µg/mL, demonstrating their capability to eliminate harmful free radicals. The cytotoxicity of PkRE and Pk-AgNPs was evaluated using the MTT assay against the SV40 T-antigen-containing HEK293T cell line, derived from human embryonic kidney 293 cells and the L929 cell line, a mouse fibroblast cell line. The results demonstrated dose-dependent cytotoxicity. L929 cells remained 100 % viable at concentration up to 200 µg/mL for PkRE and 100 µg/mL Pk-AgNPs. In contrast, HEK293T cells didn’t show 100 % viability even at a concentration of 50 µg/mL for both samples. This study highlights the potential use of PkRE and Pk-AgNPs as antioxidants. However, the cytotoxicity findings suggests that they may be harmful to humans if consumed orally, though they could be suitable for use in other organisms. This paves the way for further research into the application of AgNPs synthesized from P. kurroa in biomedical and pharmaceutical domains as well as in veterinary sciences.

In vitro studies on the pollen viability and germination of Impatiens cordata Wight. an endemic species of the Southern-Western Ghats

Abhilash Sivadasan, Anjali Jayan, Appukuttan Kamalabhai Sreekala — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Impatiens cordata is an endemic balsam in the southern Western Ghats. The present work aimed to study pollen morphology, fertility, viability, cytology, and in vitro pollen germination studies of I. cordata. The study also focused on finding a relationship between pollen viability and germination. The results revealed that the I. cordata pollen grains are elliptical and quadrangular. The pollen grains are bicellular, mainly tetracolpate, with some tricolpate occurrences, and have reticulate exine ornamentation. Brew baker’s medium supplemented with 5% sucrose had the most remarkable ability to germinate in vitro. The stain and the number of days significantly affect germination. The peak of pollen viability was observed on the day of anthesis. The results of the Alexander stain were more strongly correlated with in vitro germination and suggested that for pollen viability studies, the Alexander stain is considered the best stain compared to others.

The effect of thermal and non-thermal treatments on shelf-life of ready to drink whey-based functional beverages

R Bhatia, K Chauhan, N Taneja, V Kumar, G Singh, K Kaur — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Whey protein-based beverages are popular because of their many health benefits, high protein, pleasant flavor and vibrant hue. The hue of protein beverages is the most reliable barometer of how various quality characteristics will influence buyers' decisions. Protein beverages are typically processed using conventional thermal treatment, which diminishes their nutritional content and alters their appearance. Controlling the protein beverage quality and approximating the nutritional change can be achieved by examining microbial load during storage. This study analyzed the total microbial load such as coliform, yeast and molds of protein beverages, along with the impacts of various thermal (microwave, retort-pasteurization) and nonthermal (ultrasonication) treatments. The microbiological evaluation of the protein beverage was carried out at regular intervals (weekly) during the storage period under refrigeration and room temperature. In results, the protein beverage remained good in terms of overall acceptability and maintained the quality up to 90 days and 65 days after thermosonication treatment and was stored at refrigerated temperature (4 °C) followed by room temperature (28 °C) respectively. Hence, this study focuses on maximizing the shelf-life efficiency and maintaining protein beverage quality by using thermal and non-thermal procedures in tandem.

Impact of control release fertilizers on vegetative, gas exchange attributes and nutrient status of Philodendron erubescens

Shanthanu R, Keisar Lourdusamy D, Kavino M, Chitra R, Prabu P C, Vanitha K — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Philodendron erubescens, commonly known as the Red-leaf Philodendron or Blushing Philodendron, is a popular ornamental plant species belonging to the family Araceae. Due to the bright red colour, this species is one of the leading indoor plants in commercial market. The current study investigated the efficacy of controlled-release fertilizers (CRFs) in accelerating the growth of tissue-cultured Philodendron erubescens (Pink Princess) to commercial saleable size in a nursery setting. Two CRF treatments - Basacote high K 6 M + hydrospeed CaB-Max and organic CRF + hydrospeed CaB-Max were compared against control using conventional water-soluble fertilizer. Forty-five-day-old tissue-cultured plantlets were evaluated over 60 days for morphological parameters, root development, physiological responses and nutrient uptake. A CI-340 Handheld photosynthesis machine was employed to measure photosynthetic rate, transpiration rate and stomatal conductance. Inductively Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used for precise quantification of foliar macro- and micronutrient concentrations. Results demonstrated that Basacote high K 6 M + hydrospeed CaB-Max significantly outperformed both organic CRF + hydrospeed CaB-Max and the control in accelerating plant growth to commercial standards. Basacote high K 6 M + hydrospeed CaB-Max treated plants reached a mean height of 28.48 cm and spread of 27.09 cm after 60 days, approaching the target saleable size of 25 to 30 cm. Root morphology analysis using WinRHIZO software revealed enhanced root system development in Basacote high K 6 M + hydrospeed CaB-Max plants, indicating improved establishment. Physiological measurements showed higher photosynthetic rates (11.46 ?mol m?² s?¹), transpiration rates (1.32 mmol m?² s?¹) and stomatal conductance (30.97 mmol m?² s?¹) in Basacote high K 6 M + hydrospeed CaB-Max plants. ICP-MS analysis indicated superior nutrient uptake and accumulation in T1-treated plants, particularly for calcium, potassium, magnesium and iron. Strong positive correlations between physiological parameters and morphological traits suggest that enhanced nutrient availability from CRFs contributed to accelerated growth and improved plant quality. This study elucidates the potential of tailored CRF formulations to optimize the rapid establishment of tissue-cultured P. erubescens into marketable plants, offering valuable insights for commercial nursery production practices.

Anti- psoriatic effect and phytochemical evaluation of Iraqi Scabiosa palaestina ethyl acetate extract

Ahmed Salim Mahmood, Nabaa M. Ibrahim, Thukaa Z. Abdul-Jalil — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The purpose of this study was to confirm the antipsoriasis activity of Scabiosa palaestina (S. palaestina) ariel component extract and identify the active compound(s) responsible for this activity using a developed RP-HPLC technology. The active ethyl acetate extract of S. palaestina was extracted and fractionated by the hot continuous Soxhlet apparatus method. Psoriasis was induced in experimental animals after 4 days of imiquimod (IMQ) cream application on dorsal skin rats of 3 treated groups (6 rats for each) and the normal group (6 rats) left without treatment. Two of the psoriatic-induced groups were treated with ethyl acetate (EA) extract or methotrexate (MTX) for 12 days, starting from day 4 of the IMQ application. Assessment of psoriatic lesions was done during the experiment, depending on the psoriasis area severity index (PASI). At the end of the study (day 15), animals were sacrificed and 2 skin specimens were collected for histopathological examination and cytokine measurement. Compared with the positive control group, ethyl acetate extract shows significant improvement in PASI (p-value < 0.05) and histopathological changes exerted by IMQ. On the other hand, no significant reduction has been seen in the psoriatic and angiogenic mediator (IL-17 and VEGF) with a P-value > 0.05 compared with the positive control group, which may be attributed to other cytokines that could be affected by the ethyl acetate extract of S. palaestina. These results suggest that the antipsoriasis properties of ethyl acetate extract may possibly be due to the presence of flavonoid compounds (luteolin, apigenin, quercetin, vitexin and kaempferol).

Characterizing organic biostimulants from Kappaphycus alvarezii (Doty) and assessing their stimulant potential on Zea mays (maize)

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Marine algae are rich in minerals and phytochemicals and are utilized in agriculture as biostimulants for plant growth after industrial extraction. Therefore, in the current study, red marine algae (RMA) were extracted using cow urine and water to produce suitable biostimulants for organic agriculture. The raw RMA and its extracts were characterized for nutrients and bioactive metabolites. The extracted RMA biostimulants were tested at different concentrations using maize species to optimize the most effective concentrations for growth promotion. Results showed that cow urine extracts (CUE) contained higher essential nutrients compared to aqueous extracts (AQE), with average extractions of 34% primary nutrients, 31% secondary nutrients, 10% micronutrients, and 5% heavy metals in CUE, and 3%, 6%, 6%, and 12% in AQE, respectively. Maize germination parameters were significantly higher at 2.5% concentration for both CUE and AQE solutions, and also performed well at 5% concentration. Germination percentage, energy, and index ranged from 25-35%, 20-30%, and 0.6-0.9%, respectively, with higher values observed with CUE. Seedling parameters such as seedling vigor index, length, and biomass were significantly higher with 7.5% CUE and 5% AQE. Similar results were observed for root traits, except for root tips, which were higher at 10%. The study suggests that concentrations of 5.0-7.5% for CUE and 2.5-5.0% for AQE are optimal for enhancing maize germination and seedling growth. Furthermore, cow urine-based extract of red marine algae at 5% and 7.5% concentrations showed superior performance compared to aqueous extract in promoting plant growth. These findings warrant further validation under field conditions to assess their impact on crop production and quality.

Interactive effect of nutrient and weed management in transplanted rice (Oryza sativa L.) for enhancing the productivity in Eastern India

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A field experiment comprising three nutrient and six weed management practices was conducted in strip plot design with three replications during 2019 and 2020 at Odisha University of Agriculture & Technology (OUAT), Bhubaneswar, India to assess the effect of the treatments on weed dynamics, productivity and nutrient uptake by crop and weed. Averaged over both years, among nutrient management practices, the soil test based dose (STD: 100-40-40 N-P2O5-K2O kg ha-1) + green manuring (GM) of dhaincha recorded the minimum weed density of 45.3 and 64.2 number m-2 and weed biomass of 19.2 and 37.6 g m-2 at 30 and 60 days after transplanting (DAT), respectively and the minimum N, P and K uptake of 6.4, 2.0 and 6.8 kg ha-1 by weed and the maximum N, P and K uptake of 113.6, 23.2 and 122.6 kg ha-1 by the crop, respectively. Among weed management practices, bensulfuronmethyl + pretilachlor (PE) fb HW on 35 DAT produced the minimum weed density of 25.15 and 20.66 number m-2, the minimum weed biomass of 7.70 and 8.08 g m-2 at 30 and 60 DAT, respectively and the minimum N, P and K uptake of 2.4, 0.5 and 2.6 kg ha-1 by weed and the maximum N, P and K of 117.9, 25.3 and 263.7 kg ha-1 by crop, respectively. Among nutrient management practices, the STD + GM proved to be the best with the maximum grain yield of 5562 kg ha-1. whereas the application of bensulfuronmethyl + pretilachlor (PE) fb HW on 35 DAT excelled over other weed management practices with the maximum grain yield of 5907 kg ha-1 registering 17.71 and 47.64% higher grain yield compared to the STD and the weedy check, respectively.

Comparative analysis of leaf area index and maize yield estimation assimilating remote sensing and DSSAT crop simulation model

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Maize is a global staple crop, impacting food security, economic development, and agricultural sustainability. This study investigates the integration of Sentinel-1A Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) data with the DSSAT CERES-Maize crop simulation model to estimate Leaf Area Index (LAI) and rabi maize yield in Belagavi district, Karnataka. Field data, including LAI, days to anthesis, silking, grain filling, and farmers' field practices, were collected for model calibration and validation, supplemented by crop-cutting experiments (CCE) to determine actual yields. The study revealed strong correlations between LAI values obtained from remote sensing (RS) and field observations, with RS-derived LAI showing an average agreement of approximately 96.07% compared to field measurements. The DSSAT model exhibited slightly better performance, averaging 97.09%. Statistical analysis for LAI showed an R² value of 0.853 for RS and 0.864 for DSSAT, indicating strong correlations with observed LAI values. For maize yield estimation, the DSSAT model demonstrated higher accuracy with an average yield of 8129 kg/ha, compared to RS-derived yield averages of 7533.9 kg/ha and CCE yield averages of 8096.6 kg/ha. The average concordance between DSSAT and CCE yields was 94.19%, while RS and CCE yields had an average concordance of 92.29%. Statistical analyses revealed coefficients of determination of 0.854 for DSSAT-CCE and 0.867 for RS-CCE comparisons. The study underscores the value of combining RS data with DSSAT for comprehensive and accurate crop yield forecasting, highlighting the potential for improved agricultural assessments and decision-making.

HPLC analysis and antimicrobial activity of Vitex altissima leaves extracts

Ajinza A, Arun A Rauf, Boby T Edwin — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The exploration of ethnomedicinal plants for phytochemical and pharmacological properties is crucial for developing novel therapeutics for chronic diseases. Vitex altissima, known as the Peacock chaste tree, is a significant member of the Verbenaceae family, is widely utilized in traditional medicine. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and antibacterial properties of V. altissima, a plant recognized for its medicinal use by various indigenous communities, including the Malayali tribes of Servarayan hills. The study involved extracting phytochemicals from the leaves of V. altissima using hexane, ethyl acetate and methanol through soxhlet extraction. The extracts were analyzed for secondary metabolites, including carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids, steroids, glycosides, alkaloids, tannins, phenolics, flavonoids, terpenoids, saponins, anthraquinones, oils and resins, diterpenes, phlobatannins and coumarins. Quantitative assessments of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and alkaloids were performed. Column chromatography was employed to fractionate the methanolic extract, resulting in 12 distinct fractions. These fractions were screened for antibacterial activity against E. coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Streptococcus mutans and Staphylococcus aureus using the agar well diffusion method. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was determined through a 2-fold serial dilution technique. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) was utilized to identify the polyphenolic compounds responsible for antibacterial activity. Phytochemical screening revealed a diverse array of bioactive compounds in the extracts, with methanol extracts showing the highest total phenolic content (218 ± 7.21 mg GAE/g of extract) and significant antibacterial activity. The ethyl acetate extract exhibited the highest total flavonoid content (40.67 ± 6.65 mg QE/g of extract). Among the fractions, the column fraction from the chloroform-methanol gradient (VACF) demonstrated superior antimicrobial activity, particularly against S. mutans and P. aureginosa. The MIC values for VACF were 427 µg/mL for P. aeruginosa and 400 µg/mL for S. aureus, indicating potent antibacterial properties. HPLC analysis identified key polyphenolic compounds, including p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid and elagic acid, as the primary contributors to the antibacterial activity. The presence of these compounds aligns with the observed antimicrobial efficacy and highlights the potential of V. altissima extracts as a source of natural antibacterial agents.

Soil zinc dynamics over time on applied organics, bacterial inoculant and zinc fertilizers in calcareous soil of southern India

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Bioavailability of zinc was impacted by soil properties, externally applied sources, time, and various fractions of zinc. An experiment was conducted to investigate the bioavailable and other zinc fractions in calcareous soil and the efficiency of organic and inorganic sources on bioavailability with the presence and absence of zinc solubilizing bacteria (ZSB). The sequential extraction procedure followed at every interval of the incubation period for all forms of zinc was studied. Externally added inorganic sources significantly affected all fractions of zinc compared to untreated soils. Among them, ZnSO₄ influences all forms of zinc, mainly Ws+Ex (water soluble+exchangeable) and carbonate-bound zinc, whereas Zn-EDTA maintains a high status of bioavailable zinc throughout the experimental period. On the 60^th day of incubation, Zn-EDTA and ZnSO₄ applied to soil maintained bioavailable zinc content of 3.71 and 2.94 times higher than that of control. Irrespective of sources, the available zinc of Zn fertilizers applied to soils was reduced with an increase in incubation days. Organic and microbial addition effects solely or combined increase the soil zinc content significantly in both fertilized and unfertilized soils. Among two different organic sources, the zinc solubility performance of farmyard manure was higher than that of vermicompost. In untreated soil, residual and carbonate-bound fractions contribute a major portion towards total zinc based on quantity. The bioavailable fraction mainly the Ws+Ex and organically bound fractions were markedly influenced in all treatments.

Green horizons: Using fodder crops to harness carbon and combat climate change

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Climate change, influenced by both natural processes and human activities, has notably transformed Earth's atmospheric composition, primarily due to heightened energy use in industrial and agricultural sectors. To combat this, a study was conducted focusing on soil management strategies, particularly using cumbu napier hybrid grass, to mitigate climate change by enhancing carbon sequestration. The research evaluated the effects of different nutrient sources including inorganic fertilizers, farmyard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM) and biofertilizers like Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) and Azophos on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, soil carbon pools and soil organic carbon (SOC). The findings revealed that integrating organic manures with biofertilizers, particularly in the treatment involving PM at 75 % nitrogen equivalent combined with AM and Azophos (T10), significantly increased SOC levels (1.04 %) and lowered GHG emissions. This treatment also recorded the highest levels of soil inorganic carbon (0.131 %), passive carbon (7890 mg kg-1), permanent soil carbon stock (14.91 t ha-1 year-1), carbon pool index (1.37), carbon management index (201.1) and green fodder yield (370.2 t ha-1 year-1). On the other hand, the treatment with FYM alone at 100 % nitrogen equivalent (T7) resulted in the highest CO2 emissions (71.4 t ha-1 year-1), while the untreated control plot (T11) exhibited the highest global warming potential (GWP). This study underscores the effectiveness of strategic soil management in forage crop systems as a sustainable method to boost soil health, increase carbon sequestration and reduce GHG emissions, thus contributing to climate change mitigation.

A molecular docking insight: Phyllanthus niruri L. constituents targeting MMP-9 for angiogenesis inhibition and IL-1beta for antiinflammatory action in endometriosis therapy

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Endometriosis, characterized by inflammatory lesions resembling endometrium outside the uterine cavity, induces chronic inflammation, anatomical changes and persistent pain. The expression of Interleukin 1beta (IL-1beta) is significantly associated with endometriosis, contributing to inflammatory process and fertility issues. Matrix metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) is crucial in the adhesion and angiogenesis of endometrial tissue. This study investigates the potential of Phyllanthus niruri L. in inhibiting MMP-9 and IL-1beta through molecular docking analysis.

Molecular docking was performed using Discovery Studio Visualizer, Open Babel, PyRx and AutoDock Vina. The inhibitory activities of bioactive compounds on MMP-9 and IL-1beta were predicted. Biological activity and cytotoxicity were assessed using PASS and CLC-Pred respectively. Kaempferol and quercetin from P. niruri exhibited significant MMP-9 expression inhibitory activity. Search Tool for Interacting Chemicals (STITCH) analysis revealed interactions of quercetin and galangin with specific proteins involved in pathways related to endometriosis. Biological activity analysis indicated that quercetin, kaempferol, herbacetin and galangin show potential as MMP -9 expression inhibitors. CLC-Pred analysis suggested high cytotoxicity of kaempferol against glioma.

Molecular docking results showed quercetin's potential as an MMP-9 inhibitor and galangin's potential as an IL-1 beta inhibitor. These findings support the therapeutic potential of P. niruri for endometriosis, providing insights for further research in developing innovative therapies targeting endometriosis-related inflammation and angiogenesis.

A multifaceted analysis of pesticide utilization in market gardening along the Ruzizi plain: Exploring factors, farmer perceptions & media influence

Angel Anthony Kasonta, Sugandha Shekhar Thakur, Jean-Claude Masumbuko Birindwa — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Along the Ruzizi plain, subsistence agriculture constitutes households' primary food source. Regardless of the environment, the low level of pesticide use ensures less effective disease and pest control. This is why a study was carried out in the Ruzizi plain to identify the main determinants of pesticide use on vegetable crops for effective control of diseases and pests that significantly reduce the yield of these crops, which play an economically important role for producers and the role of the media in this context. The data was collected using a closed-type survey questionnaire on 90 market gardeners distributed equally between localities applying the probit model. The results of the probit model estimation reveal that about nine factors positively influence the use of pesticides: membership in a cooperative (p=0.0012), access to agricultural credit (p=0.0153), experience in agriculture (p=0.0008), experience in market gardening (p=0.0197), standard of living (p=0.0139), yield (p=0.0001), capacity building (p=0.0035), the area exploited (p=0.0011) and the cultivation system (p=0.0233). In addition, tomatoes are the leading vegetable crop grown by many market gardeners (61.1%), followed by amaranth (20%) and onions (18.9%). Also, 67.8% of market gardeners use pesticides compared to 32.2% who do not use them. Thus, considering these factors would contribute to decision-making when carrying out certain activities to improve market gardening, contributing considerably to the fight against food insecurity. Also, it is advised that the media work harder to inform rural residents and areas about the agenda for rural development.

Variability, heterosis and interrelationship of contributing traits for yield improvement in parents and hybrids of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L).

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is the most prevalent and consumed vegetable crop worldwide because of its higher nutritional content. This study investigates the genetic diversity, principal components, correlations, clustering and heterosis among yield and quality traits of tomato parents and hybrids. Sixteen yield and quality-related attributes were evaluated using a diverse set of parents and their hybrids, revealing significant variation. The principal component analysis identified five principal components explaining 78.67% of the total variance, with a bi-plot highlighting the distribution of parents and hybrids. Five parents (CBESL159, CBESL169, CBESL162, CBESL164, CBESL168), two hybrids (H4, H5) and two double hybrids (H4xH5 and H5xH7) demonstrated widespread dispersion, indicating substantial genetic diversity driven primarily by yield and yield-related traits. The evaluation of heterosis among the hybrids revealed that six hybrids (H1, H3, H4, H5, H7 and H8) and four double hybrids (H5xH7, H1xH5, H8xH7 and H4xH5) exhibited significantly positive heterosis over the standard check hybrids.
Further, the study underscores the potential of parents and hybrids for developing strong hybrid vigour regarding growth, yield, and quality characteristics. The number of fruits per plant, single fruit weight and overall fruit yield exhibited strong positive correlations, signifying their implication as indirect selection criteria in tomato breeding programs. These findings provide valuable insights for further breeding programmes to enhance tomato yield and quality through targeted hybridization and trait selection.

Response of host Indian Musa germplasm against artificially induced root lesion nematodes (Pratylenchus coffeae)

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Under greenhouse condition, the host response of fifty-nine banana genotypes (Musa spp.) from the Eumusa section to the root-lesion nematode (Pratylenchus coffeae) was assessed. In a factorial completely randomized design (FCRD) with five replications, healthy banana suckers of the diploid and triploid accessions were planted in cement pots. Uninoculated controls were included in the experiment as comparison to study the sensitivity of the genotypes. Two varieties (Pisang Lilin and Nendran) with known reaction to lesion nematode were also included as reference clones because of their resistance and susceptibility to P. coffeae. Banana accessions maintained in the pots were inoculated with infective juveniles of root-lesion nematode, P. coffeae at 45 days after planting at the rate of 400 nematodes/pot. Ninety days after inoculation, the plants were harvested to observe the response of the different banana genotypes to P. coffeae. Data were recorded on plant growth (plant height, girth at the base, number of standing leaves, number of roots and weight of the root system), root damage assessment (percentage of infected roots and percentage necrosis) and nematode reproduction. When inoculated with nematodes, the reduction in plant growth attributes was relatively higher in genotypes that were susceptible. The reduction in growth characters viz., plants height, number of roots and root fresh weight were maximum in the diploid genotypes Manguthamng (26.80, 27.2, 33.0 %) and Manohar (25.70, 29.2, 35.2 %) and in the triploid genotypes Kaali, Rajthali, Digjowa, Saapkal, Cheenichampa, Dasaman, Borchampa, Jahaji, Manjahaji, Barjahaji and Sabri when inoculated with Pratylenchus coffeae. Even after nematode inoculation, root investigations showed that resistant and tolerant genotypes had greater numbers of roots as well as high fresh and dry weight of roots. Root and soil population of nematodes assessed at 90 days after inoculation indicated very high population buildup of Pratylenchus coffeae (>28) in diploids Manguthamng and Nendrapadathi and in triploids Jahaji, Manjahaji, Saapkal, Borchampa, Therahaw-1163 and 1164, Ankur-I and Bersain. The rate was the lowest (<9) in the diploid genotypes Kanai Bansi, Kechulepa, M.balbisiana, Athiakol, Bhimkol and Aittakola and in the triploids Karthobiumtham and Ankur-II. The results of the experiment showed that the diploids Musa balbisiana (BB), Aittakola (BB), Bhimkol (BB), Kechulepa (BB), Kanai Bansi (AA) and Athiakol (BB) and the triploid genotypes Kachkel (ABB), Karthobiumtham (ABB) and Ankur-II (ABB) were resistant to Pratylenchus coffeae.

Phylogenomic analysis of glutamine synthetase gene family in Helianthus annuus L.

Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Glutamine synthetase is one of the predominant enzymes in nitrogen metabolism. In developing leaves, glutamine is mainly produced in chloroplasts by the activity of the GS2 isoenzyme. It catalyzes glutamine synthesis from glutamate and ammonia in an ATP-dependent reaction. The genes encoding glutamine synthetase play a crucial role in ammonia and glutamate detoxification, acid-base homeostasis, cell signaling, and cell proliferation. The gene family responsible for producing glutamine synthetase has been previously documented in model plants like Arabidopsis. Nevertheless, there has been no exploration into its existence and attributes in oilseed crops like sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). This study thoroughly analyzes, gene structure, conserved motifs, chromosomal location, phylogenetic relationships, and expression patterns to identify the glutamine synthetase genes in H. annuus. Our findings unveiled 19 genes encoding glutamine synthetase within the H. annuus genome. These genes were distributed across 11 chromosomes of H. annuus. Furthermore, we examined the expression patterns of all the HaGS genes using RNA-seq datasets, specifically focusing on their response to biotic and abiotic stress conditions. Under biotic stress, H. annuus expresses genes for mycorrhizal fungi named Rhizoglomus irregulare at four days post inflorescence (dpi) and 16 dpi. Under abiotic stress, the effect of drought and hormones was investigated. In drought, one gene, HaGS6D, showed the highest expression in the leaf. Meanwhile, in roots, gene HaGS7B showed the highest expression. Under hormonal stress, the effects of auxin, brassinosteroid, and cytokinin were studied on the leaf. For auxin, the gene HaGS7C showed the highest expression. For brassinosteroid, the gene HaGS7D showed the highest expression; for cytokinin, the gene HaGS6E showed the highest expression. Thus, these findings can significantly contribute to our understanding of the arrangement of glutamine synthetase genes in H. annuus and offer valuable insights for developing of drought-resistant cultivars of this species.

Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde, a sacred tree: its nutritional value, elemental composition and anti-nutritional content

Monica Suresh, Manikantan Pappuswamy — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The sacred Saraca asoca (Roxb.) de Klilde tree holds significant medicinal value and is utilized in ayurvedic preparations to treat various health conditions. This research investigated the nutritional, elemental and anti-nutritional properties of S. asoca leaves and flowers. The nutritional qualities of the tree parts were examined using the muffle furnace and micro-Kjeldahl techniques. Titration techniques were used to assess the anti-nutritional content of plants, whereas EDX (Energy dispersive X-ray) was used to determine the mineral content. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, phenols and flavonoids, along with antioxidant properties that could neutralize free radicals generated by metabolic processes in the body. Nutritional analysis indicated that the floral parts of S. asoca had higher moisture, carbohydrate and crude fat content than the leaves. Conversely, the leaves had elevated ash levels, crude fiber and protein. Leaf samples showed higher concentrations of minerals like calcium, phosphorus, sodium, iodine, iron and manganese compared to the floral samples. In contrast, flower samples exhibited higher potassium, copper, silicon and zinc levels. These findings highlight the rich nutritional profile, abundant phytochemicals and essential minerals in both tree parts, with low anti-nutrient content. This information could be instrumental in developing phytopharmaceuticals and nutritious food products. Additionally, utilizing these tree parts could offer a cost-effective way to enhance nutrient intake and address nutritional deficiencies in humans and animals.

Influence of plant growth regulators on yield attributes and physical parameters of fruit quality in sapota under the eastern tropical region of India

Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The present study was conducted at Central Horticultural Experiment Station (ICAR-IIHR), Bhubaneswar, during 2022 and 2023 to evaluate the impact of the application of plant growth regulators on fruit set, yield and physical fruit quality of Sapota (Manilkara zapota L.) cv. DHS-1. The experiment was designed in a randomized completely block design with nine treatments consisting of NAA (50 and 100 ppm), CPPU (5 and 7.5 ppm), SA (150 and 300 ppm) and Homobrassinolide (10 and 15 ppm) and water as control. Treatments were imposed on 24-year-old, uniformly grown sapota trees, planted at 10m x 10m spacing, at flowering, fruit set and one month after fruit set. In general, the application of PGRs was effective in augmenting fruit sets, fruit retention, yield attributes and physical fruit quality over control. However, the application of NAA and CPPU performed better at higher doses. The treatment NAA @100 ppm resulted in the highest fruit set (34.76 %), fruit retention (57.46% at 30 DAFS, 28.48 % at 120 DAFS), yield (47.77 kg/tree) and physical fruit viz. pulp content (93.80%), dry matter (26.15%), fruit length (7.47 cm) and fruit width (6.57 cm). Pearson correlation coefficient analysis showed positive links among fruiting, yield, yield attributing traits and physical fruit quality parameters of sapota, as well as a negative correlation for peel content.

Sustainable integrated weed control strategies to reduce herbicide use in sunflower production

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This research aims to develop integrated weed control strategies that can effectively reduce the quantity of herbicides used in cultivation of sunflower. To address the challenge of weed management in mechanized crop fields and mitigate the adverse effects on the ecosystem, an experiment with 10 treatments was arranged in randomized block designs and replicated 3 times. The treatments included combinations of herbicide application, band application of herbicide and power weeder weeding. The higher weed control efficiency (WCE) was achieved in a weed-free environment. Additionally, higher WCE was observed in the treatment where weeds were managed through band application of pendimethalin (38.7 capsule suspension (CS)) in the seed row as a pre-emergence method and weeding was done with a power weeder twice. These 2 treatments registered more than 90 % WCE due to lesser weed occurrence. The present investigation also registered higher grain yield under weed-free control (2212 kg/ha). It was tailed by Pre-emergence (PE) herbicide (1 kg/ha of Pendimethalin (38.7 CS)) in seed row after irrigation followed by (fb) power weeder twice (on 15-20 and 30-35 DAS), PE herbicide (1 kg/ha of Pendimethalin (38.7 CS)) in seed row before irrigation fb power weeder twice (on 15-20 and 30-35 DAS) and PE herbicide (1 kg/ha of Pendimethalin (30 EC)) in seed row after irrigation fb power weeder twice (on 15-20 and 30-35 days after sowing (DAS)). Based on the results, pendimethalin (38.7 CS) can also be applied either before or after irrigation, as it will not significantly lose its efficacy in controlling weeds. These findings have practical implications for sunflower cultivation, offering effective strategies for integrated weed control.

Inducible overexpression of MYB118-like gene improves anthocyanin production in Populus × canescens

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Anthocyanins are secondary metabolites which contribute different colors to the leaves. Anthocyanin biosynthesis is regulated by MYB transcription factors, which have been extensively studied and characterized in a diversity of plants. In this study, we identified a novel MYB transcription factor MYB118L, from Populus 'Zhonghua Hongye', which showed an elevated accumulation of anthocyanin than Populus clone ZL-2025. Subcellular localization analyses revealed that MYB118L-GFP fusion protein was specifically located in the nucleus. Transgenic plants overexpressing MYB118L driven by the stress-inducible Rd29A promoter showed a significant increase in anthocyanin production, resulting in a red coloration of the leaves under drought stress conditions. These plants also exhibited higher expression levels of genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis compared to the wild type, suggesting that MYB118L positively regulates the expression of these genes. Y1H and dual-luciferase assays confirmed that MYB118L can directly activate the promoters of LAR1 gene. Our findings suggest that MYB118L is an essential transcription factor involved in the regulation of anthocyanin biosynthesis in poplar and could be utilized for genetic engineering of colorful tree species.

Influence of rice straw incorporation and recommended dose of primary nutrients on growth, productivity and nutrient use efficiency of Rabi maize (Zea mays L.)

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Rice-maize-based cropping system is one of the important agricultural practices in India. Maize has a wider range of adaptability to various climatic and soil conditions, which allows the farmers to cultivate the crop at various locations throughout the year. During the present days, straw handling after rice crop harvesting has become a major problem to the farmers and the burning of rice straw is considered as a serious environmental threat causing air pollution. In this scenario, incorporation of rice straw in succeeding maize cultivation can be beneficial in various aspects like soil health improvement, increased productivity and proper waste management. Considering these, the present field study was conducted at the Post Graduate Research Farm of Centurion University of Technology and Management, Gajapathi, Odisha, India. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with 8 treatments and each treatment was replicated 4 times. The details of the treatment are as follows, T1: absolute control, T2: 100 % RDF, T3: 100 % RDF + rice straw incorporation (RSI) at 2 t/ha, T4: 100 % RDF + RSI at 4 t/ha, T5: 100 % RDF + RSI at 6 t/ha, T6: 100 % RDF + RSI at 8 t/ha, T7: 75 % RDF + RSI at 2 t/ha and T8: 75 % RDF + RSI at 4 t/ha. The experimental results found that the superior values of growth attributes were obtained highest in treatments T2: 100 % RDF, T3: 100 % RDF + RSI at 2 t/ha. Further, the incorporation of rice straw at the rate of 2 t/ha (T3) accounted for maximum grain yield (6354 kg/ha), stover yield (8429 kg/ha) and biological yield (14783 kg/ha) of maize and this treatment remained at par with T2: 100 % RDF. The experiment concludes that application of the optimum dose of fertilizers (100 % RDF) along with the incorporation of 2 t/ha of rice straw can be recommended for better growth, yield and nutrient use efficiency of Rabi maize.

Enhancing plant resilience and drought stress in green gram through seed priming with nodule-associated plant probiotics

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Drought stress is a critical environmental stress that hinders plant growth and development. Most pulses are grown in rainfed ecosystems, significantly affected during drought conditions. To address this predicament in this study, a liquid microbial consortium of nodule-associated plant probiotics was used for seed priming of Greengram to assess its efficacy in alleviating drought stress and improving seed quality attributes. Applying an optimum dose of plant probiotics at the appropriate stage enhances plant productivity, improving tolerance to stresses and reducing dependence on harmful agrochemicals. To optimize the dose, two green gram seeds viz., VBN4 and CO8, were subjected to various concentrations of nodule-associated plant probiotics (NAPP), namely, 2, 4, 6 and 8%, along with the control and hydropriming. In the present study, 2% NAPP improved the physiological and biochemical parameters of the green gram, such as germination, seed vigour index, protein content, dehydrogenase activity and ?-amylase in both varieties. The primed seeds were further evaluated under moisture stress conditions by exposing them to various concentration levels of Polyethylene Glycol 6000 ranging from -2 to -6 bar. The experiment revealed that increasing the concentration of PEG 6000 above in -4 bar reduced germination and seedling vigour in both green gram varieties. However, green gram seeds primed with 2% NAPP showed greater moisture stress resistance than nonprimed seeds. The highest activity of stress-related enzymes such as catalase, peroxidase and super oxidase dismutase triggered by NAPP in green gram plants was observed to have potential for drought stress management. This study highlights the importance of NAPP as a potential seed priming agent for improving seed germination and vigour under moisture stress.

Effect of different packaging methods and storage conditions on postharvest quality and shelf-life of Manila Tamarind (Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth.) var. PKM2

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Manila tamarind (Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) Benth.), is a dry land fruit crop that belongs to the Fabaceae family commonly known Camacchile or Jungle jilebi. Pithecellobium dulce (Roxb.) has the potential to become productive under harsh climatic and edaphic conditions of dry land areas but its pods have a shorter shelf life. The most important objective was to use proper packaging methods to reduce moisture loss, slow down physiological and biochemical changes and prevent spoilage. The study evaluated 8 packaging methods, including different combinations of CFB (Corrugated Fiberboard) lined with 100-gauge polythene film with 0 %, 5 % and 10 % vents, CFB with 0 %, 5 % and 10 % vents, vacuum packing and a control, under cold storage (13-15 °C) and ambient conditions (26 ± 2 °C). On the 15th day of cold storage conditions, vacuum packing showed minimum physiological loss of weight (19.82 %), titratable acidity (0.68 %), ascorbic acid (77.20) and total sugar (8.36 %). Maximum total soluble solids (15.32 ?Brix), Anthocyanin (22.72 mg 100 g-1 m), shelf life (15 days) followed by CFB with 10 % vent. On the 12th day of ambient storage condition, vacuum packing recorded minimum physiological loss of weight (16.42 %), titratable acidity (0.42 %), ascorbic acid (76.13) and total sugar (8.53 %). Maximum total soluble solids (14.93 ?Brix), Anthocyanin (21.83 mg 100 g-1 m) and shelf life (11.5 days) followed by CFB with 10 % vent. In this study, the overall results indicated that both vacuum packaging and CFB with 10 % vent at cold storage had synergistic effect in manila tamarind fruit pods, not only in extending the shelf life but also maintained the physiological and biochemical attributes of manila tamarind.

Exploring the biochemical and productivity implications of incorporating mustard cake in Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull.) cultivation

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The study aimed to evaluate the biological efficiency and nutritional composition of Hypsizygus ulmarius (Bull.), an edible and medicinal mushroom species often overlooked by Indian farmers. The mushrooms were cultivated on wheat husk as the control substrate from October to February. The substrate was enriched with mustard cake (M) at concentrations of 10 % (M500), 20 % (M1000) and 30 % (M1500) by dry weight to assess the impact on yield. The growth parameters, including the size and weight of fruiting bodies from each type of substrate were recorded. The control substrate, consisting of wheat straw alone, required the shortest period for mycelium growth at 33.125 ± 0.99 days, while wheat straw supplemented with 30 % mustard cake (M1500) took the longest time at 46.6 ± 1.5 days. However, the M1000 substrate (20 % mustard cake) had the shortest time span for pin head formation, taking 46 ± 1.41days and for maturation to fully grown fruiting bodies, requiring 50.25 ± 2.12 days. The M1000 substrate also produced the highest yield of 5533.2 kg with the greatest biological efficiency of 92.2 %, but comparatively least values were obtained in M1500, with a yield of 2088.28 kg and a biological efficiency of 51.28 %. The highest total carbohydrate content was found in M500 (10 % mustard cake), at 71.91 %, along with a fiber content of 13.19 %. The highest protein (38.06 %) and fats (2.73 %) contents were observed in M1500. The results of this study suggest that mustard cake can be used as an effective supplement to enhance the nutritional content, biological efficiency and productivity of Hypsizygus ulmarius.

Nitric oxide inhibitory potential of Curcuma angustifolia Roxb. essential oil: An in silico and in vitro analysis

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The essential oil (EO) derived from Curcuma angustifolia Roxb. has gained significant interest in traditional medicine, specifically for its potential as a therapeutic agent for inflammatory disorders. Our study aimed to identify the chemical constituents of C. angustifolia EO, investigate its anti-inflammatory effects in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-treated RAW 264.7 cells and explore potential nitric oxide (NO) inhibitors through in silico based studies. The essential oil obtained through hydro-distillation underwent analysis via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The major constituents were identified as velleral (17.82 %), germacrone (12.91 %), cryptomerione (11.52 %), curzerene (5.66 %) and ?-elemene (4.09 %). The EO demonstrated non-toxicity up to a concentration of 50 µg/mL, maintaining over 70 % viability in RAW 264.7 cells. At a concentration of 25 µg/mL, treatment with C. angustifolia EO exhibited significant anti-inflammatory properties, leading to a 66 % decrease in LPS-induced NO production. Inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) crystal structures were sourced from the RCSB database. Compounds identified through GC-MS analysis were retrieved from PubChem, docked by the molecular-docking process and tested for drug-likeness properties. The compounds such as velleral (-5.8 kcal/mol), germacrone (-5.4 kcal/mol), neocurdione (-5.2 kcal/mol) and ?-cadinene (-5.2 kcal/mol) exhibited the highest binding-affinity with iNOS. Molecular dynamics simulation (MDS) showed that the interaction of these 4 phyto-compounds was stable with the active site residues. Important bonds identified in the initial ligand-docked compounds persisted unaltered throughout the MDS. The present work with in vitro and in silico studies revealed that C. angustifolia EO could be a potential anti-inflammatory agent, thus necessitating further in vivo studies to develop promising therapeutic agents in the treatment of inflammation.

Drought monitoring over the Indian state of Tamil Nadu using multitudinous standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Droughts significantly impact agriculture and water resources in Tamil Nadu, India, making precise monitoring essential for effective response and mitigation. Traditional drought indices, like the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI), rely solely on precipitation data and may overlook other critical factors. The Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) addresses this by incorporating temperature and precipitation data, offering a more comprehensive assessment of drought conditions, especially under changing climate scenarios. This study utilized daily temperature and precipitation records from NASA's Prediction of Worldwide Energy Resources (POWER) project, covering 1991 to 2024. Potential evapotranspiration (PET) was calculated using the Thornthwaite method, and the water balance was derived by aggregating monthly precipitation and PET data, which was then fitted to a log-logistic probability distribution (1). SPEI values were standardized to create a drought severity index, validated through comparisons with SPI and the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI) from MODIS data. Temporal analysis revealed significant year-to-year variability in drought conditions, with 2021 experiencing the most severe drought. The extreme droughts of 2019, 2020 and 2021 highlighted the need for adaptive drought management strategies due to their substantial impacts on agriculture and water resources. Spatial analysis identified the northwestern and southern regions of Tamil Nadu as more vulnerable to drought. Strong correlations between SPEI, SPI and EVI validated SPEI's effectiveness as a drought monitoring tool. The study emphasizes the importance of advanced indices like SPEI for precise drought monitoring and recommends integrating SPEI with real-time data and remote sensing technologies for improved drought prediction.

Response surface methodology-based optimization of hairy roots cultures for in vitro AM production

Priya PV, K Kumutha, R Subhashini, R Renuka, T Sivakumar, P Kannan — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi can do wonders in promoting the crop growth as well maintaining soil health. In vitro root organ culture technology is an exciting avenue for AM biofertilizer production. This study aims to optimize the key influencing factors for enhancing the hairy root production used for in vitro AMF culturing using response surface methodology, a statistical and mathematical tool used for designing optimization studies. Study uses Rhizobium rhizogenes MTCC 2364 for transformation in carrot explant. Factors considered for optimization are concentration of gelling agent (phytagel), carbon source (sucrose) and pH of the Modified Strullu and Romand medium (MSR). Design Expert software uses second order polynomial regression equation for predicting the outcome of each experiment. Totally, 17 experiments were run following Box-Behnken design and average hairy root length and average side branch emergence were taken as response. ANOVA analysis reveals that the concentration of phytagel and sucrose had a strong influence on root length, while the phytagel and pH of the medium had a strong effect on side branch emergence. Overall, taking into account the both responses, concentration of phytagel had a significant impact on hairy root production. The maximum average hairy root length obtained was 1.12 cm and number of side branches emerged were 6.78 per day. Based on these results, the optimal parameters were MSR medium with 3gL-1 phytagel, 11gL-1 sucrose and a pH of 4 for boosting hairy root development. This study is a cost-effective approach and minimizes the time taken for establishing the hairy root technology.

Mitigation of salinity stress on morpho-physiological and yield related parameters of rice using different organic amendments

Israt Jahan Irin, Keya Akter, Shishir Rasul, Tatia Biswas , Md. Mahbubul Alam — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Salinity is a pernicious abiotic element that hinders crop development. Utilizing organic amendments to remediate salt is crucial for enhancing soil function and promoting crop growth. Based on this, a pot experiment was carried out at the research field of Khulna Agricultural University, Khulna, to examine the physiology, growth, and yield of transplanted aman rice in response to salinity stress using duckweed, and dhaincha biomass supplement. Excess salinity with no organic amendments reduced plant growth and development, relative water content (26%), and membrane stability (28%), index compared to T₁S₁ (duckweed), and T₂S₁ (dhaincha) at 50 mM salinity. Salinity delayed the emergence of first flowering and the maturity of filled grains. The lowest grain yield was recorded in T₀S₃(no treatment + 100 mM salinity). Application of dhaincha and duckweed biomass ameliorates salinity individually at all salinity levels. Rice grown in saline soil with the application of T₁(duckweed biomass) and T₂(Sesbania biomass) had an 87% spikelet fertility while rice grown in soil without T₁ and T₂ treatment had only 21.82%. The application of T₂ and T₁ @ 5 t ha^-1 increased grain yield by 33.29% and 4.70% compared to control. Furthermore, salinity stress @100 mM NaCl with duckweed decreased grain yield by 0.05% which was minimized to 12% by applying dhaincha green manure (T₂) @ 5 t ha¹. The finding showed that the ameliorative impact of green manure at 5 tha¹ dose (T₂) was more effective compared to the duckweed (T₁) at the three salinity levels used in the study.

Enhancing tamarind quality and shelf-life through improved storage techniques

M S Marichamy , V Ponuswami , S Saraswathy , Jyothsna J — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) is a versatile spice crop with economic significance, known for its diverse applications in pulp, seed and timber. Thriving in challenging conditions like poor soils and drought, it has become crucial in various uses, particularly in wastelands. In this post-harvest study, tamarind pods underwent deshelling, deseeding and defibering before applying treatments to extend the shelf life of the pulp. Five additives and four packaging materials, under 2 storage conditions, were tested in a factorial design. Results of over 6 months revealed that treating tamarind pulp with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, packed in aluminium foil, and stored refrigerated minimized browning and moisture content. This treatment also showed lower total carbohydrate, reducing sugar, protein, amino acid and total phenol content. Conversely, pulp treated with 2.0 % ascorbic acid, packed in palmyrah leaf bags and stored refrigerated exhibited higher acidity. Pulp treated with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, packed in palmyrah leaf bags and stored under ambience showed consistently higher total soluble solids. The findings suggest that treating pulp with 0.2 % sulphur fumes, using aluminium foil for packing and refrigerated storage can significantly reduce browning, making it an ideal choice for extended stability and potential export markets. Furthermore, adopting aluminium foil as a packing material in Indian conditions proves economically feasible, ensuring better pulp quality during prolonged storage, particularly for small-scale tamarind growers.

Genetic transformation of maize (Zea mays L.) using scutellar tissue of immature embryo mediated by Agrobacterium tumefaciens

N Malini, Hari Ramakrishnan, Ananadakumar — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Agrobacterium-mediated transformation emerges as a more promising avenue than the biolistic approach for genetically transforming maize plants. Within our transformation endeavours, we harnessed Agrobacterium tumefaciens strain EHA 105, equipped with the p CAMBIA 1305.1 plant transformation vector. This dynamic combination served as the driving force behind the alteration of both mature seed-derived calli and immature embryo explants. When considering the performance of these explants, immature embryos exhibited superior characteristics and were therefore favoured as the primary target material for transformation. This preference was underscored by their ability to yield plantlets with a remarkable transformation frequency of 24-30 % within the COH(M) 5 maize variety. Critical parameters were uncovered to heighten the success of the transformation process. Notably, collecting immature embryos at the 10-12 days after pollination (DAP) stage, boasting a size of 0.8 - 1.5 mm and subsequently inoculating them after 2 days of Agrobacterium tumefaciens cultivation (with an optical density of 1.0 at 600 nm) emerged as pivotal factors that significantly elevated the transient GUS expression rate. The art of cocultivation was found to be optimally executed through the immersion of explants within the bacterial suspension, while the subsequent washing step utilizing sterile distilled water infused with 150 mg L-1 of cefotaxime and 250 mg L-1 of carbenicillin yielded the most favourable outcomes in terms of transient GUS expression for the COH(M) 5 maize variety, surpassing alternative methods. Moreover, the application of cefotaxime up to 150 mg L-1 and carbenicillin up to 250 mg L-1 proved instrumental in securing the highest frequency of regeneration, underscoring their optimal range. Similarly, when considering the selection agent hygromycin, concentrations of up to 30 mg L-1 surfaced as the ideal range, fostering not only maximum regeneration but also a higher count of shoot formations.

A new dawn for coriander seeds: Overcoming dormancy through innovative and comprehensive enhancement techniques

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Coriandrum sativum an important spice exhibits lower seed germination. That may be due to phenolic compounds that induce dormancy in seeds. This study aimed to develop a comprehensive seed enhancement technique to overcome dormancy and improve germination and seedling growth. Seeds were subjected to GC-MS analysis to identify bioactive components. Seeds were leached for 6 to 30 h (Leaching). Following leaching, hydropriming for 3 to 18 h to standardize the priming duration. At the standardized priming duration, seeds were primed with hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, salicylic acid and 2,4-D (leaching + priming). Additionally, leached seeds were coated with polymer and plant growth-promoting microorganisms such as Azospirillum, Trichoderma viride and Bacillus subtilis (leaching + coating). Finally, the best-performing treatments from these experiments were compared with comprehensive technique. The results revealed that coumarin was the primary inhibitor. Leaching (24 h) significantly improved germination by 25.8 % over control. The duration of priming was standardized to 6 h after leaching. Leaching (24 h) + priming with 25 mM H2O2 (6 h) significantly increases germination percentage by 30.7 % over control. Leaching (24 h) + coating with polymer and Azospirillum at 100 g/kg of seeds significantly increased germination by 32.8 % over control. Assessment of the comprehensive techniques revealed that seed leaching (24 h) + priming with 25 mM H2O2 (6 h) + coating with polymer and Azospirillum at 100 g/kg significantly increased the germination percentage by 39 % over control. Results show that a comprehensive technique breaks dormancy and improves germination and seedling growth.

Phytochemistry of Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss, Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng. and Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) T. Nees & C. H. Eberm. and in silico studies of the role of their bioactive components against cancer

Enush Daimari, Uma Dutta, Lalhriatpuii Tochhawng — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Phytochemical profiling using reliable equipment and validated methods helps us know the medicinal value of the plants. Since natural compounds have fewer side effects, they can serve as replacements for synthetic drugs that are being used in the treatment of challenging chronic diseases like cancer. The present study focuses on the bioactive phytochemical profiling of Petroselinum crispum (Mill.) Fuss, Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng., and Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham.) T. Nees & C. H. Eberm. and in silico studies to check the anticancer potential of their bioactive components. In thin-layer chromatography (TLC) plate analysis, it was found that the methanolic extracts of plants contained the maximum number of components. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis of the methanolic extracts of plants showed the presence of 22 bioactive components. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) analysis of the extracts of these plants showed the important chromatographic peak, apigenin. In silico studies showed the binding efficacy of selected bioactive components observed in the analysis of plant extracts. Amongst them, apigenin was found to be most effective at binding to the receptors of targeted cancer cells, viz., hepatocellular carcinoma, lung, and breast cancer. After the analysis of the study, it was arrived at the conclusion that the plants, viz., P. crispum, M. koenigii, and C. tamala, possess various bioactive components, and some of these components have anticancer potential. Therefore, in vivo and in vitro studies should be essentially conducted for the development of cancer-preventive drugs.

Impact of tillage methods and cultivars on phenology & productivity of wheat-rice system under irrigated conditions

Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The research was conducted at the Agricultural Research farm of the Agronomy Department at Palampur, Chaudhary Sarwan Kumar Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishvavidyalaya (CSK HPKV) and Rice and Wheat Research Center (RWRC) Malan, Himachal Pradesh to study the impact of tillage methods & crop species on phenology & production of wheat-rice crops under irrigated conditions. The study's basic premise was to identify wheat and rice cultivars that can perform well under specific tillage options. The trial was conducted from the winter 2019 to the rainy season of 2021, using a split-plot design. Four tillage methods- zero tillage, conventional tillage, natural farming and reduced tillage- were tested on three species of rice (HPR 2656 (Him Palam Dhan 1), HPR 2795 (Him Palam Dhan Lal 1) & HPR 1156 (Sukara Dhan Lal 1) and three species of wheat (HPW 368 (Him Palam Gehun 2), HS 562 (Central Dwarf wheat) & HPW 349). The results showed that in both crops, traditional farming (conventional tillage) methods were more efficient than other methods in terms of crop yield.
Conversely, the lowest grain yields were observed with natural farming for both crops. Specifically, the adoption of zero tillage, natural agriculture, and reduced tillage results in wheat grain yield reductions of 10.9%, 4.6%, and 59.4%, respectively, compared to conventional tillage. Similarly, rice grain yields declined by 10.8%, 34.0%, and 16.1% with zero tillage, natural farming, and reduced tillage, respectively, compared to conventional tillage. Among the cultivars evaluated, HPW 368 for wheat and HPR 2795 for rice produced significantly higher grain yields at both locations over the two years. The findings of the present investigation would help the wheat and rice growers identify suitable cultivars that would be economically grown with varying tillage options and under natural farming conditions.

Biochemical and physiological effects of propagule type and auxin concentration on adventitious root formation in novel Jasmine genotypes

Keerthivasan R, Ganga M, Chitra R, Vanitha K, Sharmila Rahale C — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Jasmine is primarily propagated through asexual methods, and bio-stimulants can improve soil fertility around plant roots. Some jasmine genotypes are mainly propagated through cuttings; however, the rooting process is slow and inconsistent. Specific jasmine genotypes are primarily propagated through cuttings, but the rooting process is slow and uneven. This study evaluated the regeneration potential of stem cuttings by investigating the effects of auxins and various propagule types on adventitious root formation, along with associated biochemical changes. A field experiment conducted by the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping at TNAU, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, from December 2023 to June 2024, during the winter monsoon, investigated the rooting of stem cuttings in three Jasminum genotypes using auxin. Stem cuttings of J. sambac Double Flower type (DF), J. grandiflorum White Flower type (WF) and a new cultivar of J. multiflorum CO.1 Winter Jasmine (CO.1 WJ) were treated with three Indole-3-Butyric Acid (IBA) concentrations (0.5, 1, 1.5 g L-1) and distilled water as control. Utilizing a Factorial, Completely Randomized Design for terminal and semi-hardwood cuttings, the study found that rooting hormone significantly enhanced root formation and stem and shoot growth. Semi-hardwood cuttings of J. sambac (DF) treated with 1g L-1 IBA had the highest rooting rate (88.60%), number of roots (9.34), root length (12.74 cm), shoot length (10.26 cm) and number of leaves (6.60). The highest rooting rate of 48.15% was obtained from the terminal cuttings of J. grandiflorum (WF) that had been treated with 1g L-1 IBA, in addition to other parameters such as number of roots (13.52), root length (12.03 cm), shoot length (14.30 cm), and number of leaves (13.48). On the other hand, J. multiflorum (CO.1 WJ) recorded the highest rooting rate of 72.23%, root number of 16.52, root length of 17.22 cm, shoot length of 14.14 cm and number of leaves, which was pegged at 31.70 when terminal cuttings were treated with 1g L-1 IBA. The current findings indicate that the application of auxins is crucial for promoting early root initiation and achieving higher rooting success, making it advantageous for vegetative propagation.

Synthesis of silver nanoparticles using Senna sophera (L.) Roxb. leaf extract and study of antibacterial and anti-cancer properties

Goli Penchala Pratap, Kashif Husain Mohd, Nagaraju Vallepu, Sudarsanam Gudivada — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The present study aimed to synthesise silver nanoparticles using an aqueous leaf extract of Senna sophera (L.) Roxb. (Fabaceae) to evaluate their antioxidant, antibacterial and anticancer activity. The silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) produced were characterized by different spectroscopic and microscopic techniques namely; UV-Vis spectroscopy, FTIR, DLS, XRD and TEM. The prominent peak at 424 nm in UV-Vis spectroscopy confirms the synthesis of nanoparticles, FTIR spectra confirms the presence of polyphenols and proteins from the leaf extract which mainly acts as reducing, capping and stabilizing agent. DLS results confirm the negative value of zeta potential and the XRD results revealed that the AgNPs are crystalline in nature with a face-centered cubic nature. TEM micrograph images indicate that the nanoparticles are 5-35 nm without any agglomeration. EDX result revealed that the weight % of nanoparticles is 69.56 %, indicating the purity of the sample. Biosynthesized AgNPs show effective DPPH, H₂O₂ scavenging activity and FRAP assay. AgNPs show strong antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumonia, Salmonella typhi, Bacillus subtilis, and Staphylococcus aureus with an inhibition zone of 17.6, 16.03, 15.66, 14.13 and 12.33 mm respectively. The antibacterial activity of leaf aqueous extract at different concentrations of AgNPs revealed the efficacy against Salmonella typhi. Further AgNPs exhibited good cytotoxic properties against HepG2 cell line with the IC₅₀ value of 95.52 ?g/mL. The silver nanoparticles were successfully synthesized using Senna sophera leaf extract, proving it to be an economical, environmentally benign and sustainable method for its applications in pharmaceutical field.

Nutrient alchemy: Optimizing multicut fodder sorghum for yield, quality and environmental balance

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study delves into the transformative impact of diverse nutrient management practices on the yield, quality, soil health and carbon sequestration potential of multi-cut fodder sorghum. Employing a randomized block design with three replications across 11 treatments, the research evaluated the effects of organic, inorganic and biofertilizer-based nutrient applications. The findings were striking: a combination of poultry manure at 75 % nitrogen equivalent with biofertilizers (Arbuscular mycorrhiza and Azophos) led to a remarkable 31.2 % boost in fodder yield and a 36.4 % increase in dry matter production compared to the control. Soil analysis revealed an 8.22 % decrease in pH, alongside substantial enhancements in key nutrients, with available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium levels soaring by 28.40 %, 44.19 % and 9.43 % respectively, under the same treatment. These practices also supercharged soil enzyme activities, with notable increases in amylase (1.21 mg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), invertase (1.45 mg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), cellulase (34.8 µg reducing sugars g-1 soil 24 h-1), phosphatase (19.73 µg phenols g-1 soil 24 h-1), dehydrogenase (11.56 µg triphenyl formazan g-1 soil 24 h-1) and urease (17.92 mg NH4 - N g-1 soil 24 h-1), signaling a vibrant uptick in microbial activity and overall soil health. Moreover, this nutrient strategy delivered a 39.22 % rise in soil organic carbon (SOC) and a 38.74 % boost in soil carbon stock, highlighting its powerful potential for long-term carbon sequestration. This study offers critical insights for crafting sustainable agricultural practices that not only maximize crop production but also enhance soil fertility and contribute meaningfully to environmental conservation.

Antioxidant analysis of protein from fresh and dry leaf of Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq.

Heeravathy Ramachandran, Zaidah Rahmat — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Orthosiphon aristatus (Blume) Miq. is a folklore plant consumed as brewed tea for various health benefits. The white variety of the plants leaf and stem are predominantly sold in the market in dried form, blooming as a natural herbal product. To date, no proteomics and antioxidant studies are available on the fresh and dried leaf protein extract of O. aristatus since most studies take an interest in the crude extracts of plants. Thereupon, this study focuses on the One-dimensional (1D) electrophoretic pattern of the fresh and dry leaf determined via sodium dodecyl-sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). Additionally, antioxidant proteins are currently being focused on for their link to controlling disease through their potential to destroy free radicals that are present in excess. Hence, an antioxidant assay was conducted for the fresh and dry leaf protein extract using 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical assay and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) assay. The electrophoretic pattern obtained resulted in approximately 16 and 10 bands for the fresh and dry leaves respectively. As for the antioxidant activity, the dry leaf had higher radical scavenging activity and higher reducing power compared to the fresh leaf. The findings obtained provides insight in to the protein content and antioxidant activity found in the protein extract of fresh and dry leaves of O. aristatus. Hence, further detailed study of the protein extracts could further unveil their therapeutic potential.

Predictive soil mapping using random forest models: Applications in pH and soil organic matter assessment

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Digital Soil Mapping (DSM) presents a highly scalable and efficient alternative to traditional soil analysis, which is typically limited by its labor-intensive processes, time constraints and low spatial resolution. By utilizing advanced computational techniques such as machine learning and remote sensing, DSM overcomes these limitations and improves the accuracy, efficiency and scalability of soil property assessments. This study, conducted across Tamil Nadu, India, applied DSM and Random Forest (RF) models to predict 2 key soil properties: pH and Soil Organic Matter (SOM). We employed Conditioned Latin Hypercube Sampling (cLHS) for optimized sampling point selection and utilized the Boruta algorithm to identify the most relevant covariates for accurate modeling. The RF models were fine-tuned using a comprehensive grid search, with the optimal configuration spanning from 500 to 2000 trees (ntree) and mtry from 1 to 11. The best-performing model was found with 2000 trees and mtry set to 1 yielding superior prediction for SOM and pH with Root Mean Square Error (RMSE) values of 0.71 and 0.60 respectively, showcasing a high level of predictive accuracy. Our findings emphasize the critical role that remote sensing indices play in predicting SOM, while pH was influenced by both terrain features and remote sensing data. In comparison to previous studies, this research offers novel improvements in both sampling optimization and model configuration, leading to enhanced predictive performance. These results hold significant potential for sustainable land-use planning, agricultural productivity and environmental management.

Optimizing growth conditions and biostimulant application for enhanced growth, yield and quality in Butter bean (Phaseolus lunatus L.) cultivar KKL 1

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Butter beans (Phaseolus lunatus) are prized for their significant nutraceutical benefits, which are crucial in addressing malnutrition in developing countries. Given their nutritional advantages, global cultivation demand is increasing. This study aims to boost production and improve crop quality through effective agronomic practices. To minimize dependence on synthetic chemicals, the study investigates the use of biostimulants as an alternative, offering a promising method for enhancing crop growth and performance. The experiment took place under 2 different conditions: polyhouse (G1) and open field condition (G2) at Horticultural and Forestry Research Station, Kodaikanal, from December 2023 to June 2024. Various biostimulants were applied in foliar parts in different doses: control (B1) seaweed extract at 3 % (B2) and 5 % (B3), panchagavya at 3 % (B4) and 5 % (B5), vermiwash at 5 % (B6) and 10 % (B7) and fulvic acid at 6 g/L (B8) and 9 g/L (B9), each replicated 3 times. Among the treatment combinations, G1B3 (seaweed extract 5 % under polyhouse condition) was most effective in all growth, yield and quality parameters including days to first flower emergence (48.50 days), number of pods per plant (96.33), pod yield (4.98 t/ha), highest soluble protein (37.36 %) than G2B1 (control group under open field condition). It resulted in a greater number of days for flower emergence (57.85 days), lowest values in number of pods per plant (69.91), pod yield (2.96 t/ha) and soluble protein (24.69 %). These findings suggest that seaweed extract has great potential as a sustainable agricultural input, enhancing productivity and crop performance in butter bean cultivation. The main goals were to investigate how different biostimulants and growing conditions affect the growth and yield of butter beans and to identify effective organic growth promoters that could improve the yield and quality of butter bean crops in various growing environments. The results of this study are discussed in the following sections.

Correlation and regression studies of SPAD based leaf nitrogen estimation as impacted by nitrogen and zinc management under medium land rice in Alfisols of Odisha

Sweta Rath, Ashok Kumar Mohapatra, Subhaprada Dash — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

One of the most significant staple crops in the world is rice (Oryza sativa L.), its productivity largely depends on various factors, including nutrient management. In particular, nitrogen and zinc management play crucial roles in rice cultivation as they significantly impact the leaf nitrogen content, which is closely associated with plant growth, photosynthesis and ultimately grain yield. Field tests were conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, Chhatabara, SOA (Deemed to be University), Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India during the kharif of 2021 and 2022 to measure the effect of nitrogen and zinc management on the productivity of rice crop yield. Split plot design was employed in this experiment in 3 replications The findings of the experiment revealed that 125 % higher the recommended dose of nitrogen (RDN) gave significantly the highest pooled, periodic SPAD values, leaf nitrogen contents, grain (5700 kg/ha) and straw yield (6880 kg/ha) respectively. This was at par with the treatment where 75 % of the RDN was supplied through Urea and the rest 25 % through FYM. Among the zinc management practices, one soil application and 3 foliar sprays of zinc sulfate @ 2.5 kg/ha and 0.5 % respectively, at the stages of active tillering, heading and panicle initiation yielded significantly than the other treatments. The SPAD value and leaf nitrogen content showed a positive correlation with grain and straw yields in rice crops across different growth stages and years.

Optimizing cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) production through integrated nutrient management: enhancing yield, quality, and sustainability

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study explores the synergistic effects of integrated nutrient management (INM) on the growth, yield, and quality attributes of cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata). The present study was conducted during the Rabi season of 2022-23 at Lovely Professional University at a vegetable research farm in Punjab, India. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized block design with ten treatments replicated three times. Various combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers, including vermicompost and neem cake were evaluated alongside the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF). Results indicated significant enhancements in most horticultural traits of cabbage across different treatments. Notably, the combination of RDF with vermicompost and neem cake (75% RDF: 5 t/ha: 2 t/ha) exhibited the most promising results, including increased head weight (125%), head formation percentage (22.17%), enhanced head yield (65.33%), improved compactness (98.60%), elevated ascorbic acid content (24.48%), and higher dry matter content (27.56%) than of control. These findings underscore the efficacy of integrated nutrient management strategies in optimizing cabbage production, emphasizing their potential for sustainable and high-quality vegetable cultivation.

Conservation agriculture and nutrient management strategies for enhancing crop performance, productivity and nutrient uptake under rice-wheat cropping system

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Understanding the relationship between tillage and nutrient management strategies is crucial for maintaining the long-term sustainability of the rice-wheat cropping system (RWCS). Therefore, a field experiment was conducted from 2022 to 2024 at Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University in Pusa, Samastipur, Bihar to study the effect of nutrient management strategies under conservation agriculture (CA) for enhancing crop growth performance, protein content and productivity of RWCS. The experiment was conducted in a split-plot design replicated thrice with 3 different tillage and crop establishment methods [zero tillage direct seeded rice (ZTDSR)-zero tillage wheat (ZTW), puddled DSR (PDSR)-ZT with rice residue retention (ZT + RR) and puddled transplanted rice (PTR)-conventional tillage wheat (CTW)] in main plots and four nutrient management strategies [Farmer’s Fertilizer Practices (FFP), Nutrient Expert recommended dose of fertilizer (NE-RDF), RDF + spray of nanourea (NU) and Customized fertilizer (CF)] in sub plots. In both years, crop growth attributes at harvest in rice were found maximum under PDSR while in wheat it was under ZT + RR. In wheat, ZT + RR recorded maximum grain yield which was 13 % and 14.5 % higher than CTW in 2022-23 and 2023-24 respectively. A decline in rice grain yield of 8.3 % and 8.9 % was recorded under FFP over NE-RDF in 2022 and 2023 respectively. Hence, PDSR followed by ZT+RR coupled with NE-RDF can increase agronomic performance and productivity under RWCS.

Multiplication and evaluation of promising jackfruit genotypes

R. Jayavalli, K. Kumanan , S. Sheeba Joyce Roseleen — Wed, 09 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The results of the study conducted on Multiplication and Evaluation of Identified Elite Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.)" genotypes from 2020-2022. The genotypes viz., KDM-Ah-8, KDM-Ah-10, and KDM-Ah- 46 were grafted through softwood and inarch grafting. The success percentage varied from softwood grafting to approach grafting. Among the grafting techniques, softwood grafting recorded the highest success of 40 percent in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08. Meanwhile, 90 percent success was recorded in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08 under approach grafting. Three identified elite jackfruit genotypes, KDM-AhJ-08, KDM-AhJ-10, and KDM-AhJ-46, were planted along with check varieties viz., PLR1, PLR2, red-fleshed jackfruit Siddu and Shankara. The highest tree height of 2.40 m was recorded in the genotype KDM -AhJ-8, and the lowest plant height of 1.70 m was recorded in the genotype Shankara red flesh. The highest stem girth of 32 cm was recorded in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08, and the lowest stem girth of 20.00 cm was recorded in the genotype Shankara red flesh. The highest plant circumference of 3.00 m was recorded in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08, and the least of (1.00 m) was recorded in the genotype Shankara red flesh. The highest number of primary branches of 6 was obtained in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08, and the lowest was obtained from the Siddu red flesh (3 Nos.). The highest number of secondary branches, 16, was recorded in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08, and the lowest number of 6 was obtained from the genotype Siddu red flesh. The genotype Shankara red flesh recorded the highest leaf length of 19 cm, and the lowest leaf length of 14 cm was recorded in the genotype KDM-AhJ-08. The highest leaf breadth of 10.10 cm was obtained from the varieties PLR1 and Shankara red flesh, and the lowest of 7.60 cm was recorded in the genotype Siddu red flesh.

In silico molecular docking, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities of bioactive fractions of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck. peel against oral pathogens in dental caries

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Dental caries is the most prevalent oral disease. It is caused by infection of Streptococcus mutans and Candida albicans. It is associated with inflammation of the dental gum. Antimicrobial agents or systemic antibiotics are administered to prevent dental caries. However, the pathogens become drug-resistant to specific antibiotics, so a combinational therapy approach may lead to the management of dental caries. In the current investigation, the peel of Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck was evaluated for antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities in dental caries. Different fractions of hydroalcohol extract were tested for in vitro antimicrobial activity against S. mutans and C. albicans. Based on the results, methanol fraction was selected for ex-vivo anti-inflammatory activity. The bioactive compounds of the methanol faction were identified by GC-MS. Only selected compounds were subjected to in silico docking analysis towards selective proteins of S. mutans and C. albicans. Amongst all the fractions, the methanol fraction showed significant antimicrobial activity against S. mutans (ZOI, 27 mm; MIC, 0.78 mg/ml; and MBC, 1.56 mg/ml) and C. albicans (ZOI, 29 mm; MIC, 0.39 mg/ml; and MBC, 1.56 mg/ml). Methanol fraction (100 µg/ml) exhibited the highest inhibition of 79.29% than other fractions in the anti-inflammatory study. GC-MS analysis of methanol fraction reported 17 compounds. Out of these, only ten compounds satisfied Lipinski’s rule of five in ADMET analysis and were subjected to in silico docking analysis. The results confirmed that the compounds of methanol fraction have the potential to inhibit the active proteins of dental caries pathogen.

Effects of Matricaria aurea extract in excisional wound healing on albino rats

Sarah Hussain Khalaf, Ghassan Thabet Saeed — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

The Asteraceae herbal plant Matricaria aurea (Loefl.) Sch.Bip is well known for its use in treating gastrointestinal, cardiac, pulmonary, rheumatologic and many other ailments; nevertheless, wound care has not yet received scientific validation. This study was done to evaluate the efficacy of M. aurea topical formulation on the rate of wound healing and contraction and the histopathological properties of the healing tissue in a rat model of an excisional wound. A total of 45 male rats with excisional wounds were enrolled in the study. The rats were divided into three groups, each with 15 male rats weighing approximately 200–250 g. The first group received treatment with M. aurea, the second group received fusidic acid cream and the third group received normal saline. The treatment was administered for 15 days while photographs were taken every other day, the diameters were measured and a histopathologic examination was conducted. There was a significant accelerated effect for wound healing, as evidenced by the inflammatory cells and diameters reducing to almost the same degree in the M. aurea and fusidic acid groups as compared to the control group (p<0.05). In vivo, the healing of wounds in albino Wister rats is demonstrated by the ethanolic extract of M. aurea. The findings, which show enhanced contraction, epithelization and tensile strength, significantly imply that wound healing promotion and acceleration can be achieved based on faster healing as compared to negative control and similar to standard control (fusidic acid) wounds.

Exploring the effect of fertilizer application on yield and decoding CO2 flux under flooded paddy conditions towards sustainable agriculture

Abirami R, Leninraja D, Jothimani S, Ramesh P T, Bhuvaneswari J — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The impact of organic and inorganic nutrient management on the emission of carbon dioxide (CO2), soil properties such as available nutrients, microbial population and soil organic carbon (SOC) were investigated in paddy (Oryza sativa L.) field (at 8o 46’ N Latitude and 77o 42?’ E Longitude) under flooded condition during late pishanam season in 2023-2024. The treatments were designed to observe the effects of applying fertilizer based on the soil test crop response (100 % STCR-based NPK) that had been modified by organic amendments, which include absolute control (unfertilized), inorganic fertilizers, sole application of organic amendments (Farm yard manure, Green leaf manure, Vermicompost and Poultry manure) and combined these organic amendments with inorganic fertilizers. The main objective of this study is to understand the intricate relationship between fertilizers and carbon flux in paddy soils, which is crucial for developing sustainable agricultural practices that minimize environmental harm while ensuring food security. The observation of the experimental field study reported that the combined application of poultry manure at the rate of 5 tonnes per hectare with 100% STCR-based inorganic fertilizer recorded maximum yield and yield attributes. The treatment combination of poultry manure + inorganic fertilizer enhanced in sequestrating the soil organic carbon (0.67%) resulted in higher grain yield (5972 kg ha-1) and also observed that this combination will limit the emission of CO2 to the atmosphere. Therefore, it could be a better choice for carbon storage and higher productivity in a sustainable rice cropping system.

Bio-fumigants as grain protectants in storage-A review

D S Karthik, G Preetha, B Keerthana, M Suganthy, N Chitra, K Raja — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Agriculture is a global lifeline, especially in developing nations like India, where over 70% of the population relies on it. Protecting food grains from insect pests during post-harvest storage is crucial, particularly in regions lacking advanced storage technologies, leading to significant losses. Fumigation is still a key strategy for safeguarding stored grains. Methyl bromide (MBr) and aluminium phosphide (AlP) are the widely used chemical fumigants. Phosphine is used to a greater extent today, but there are frequent reports that several storage pests have developed resistance to this fumigant. The United Nations World Meteorological Organization declared methyl bromide as an ozone-depleting chemical in 1995, and hence, most of the developed countries have phased out its use. Therefore, there is an urgent requirement to develop alternatives having a possible replacement for these fumigants. Biofumigants are organic compounds derived from various plant sources, including essential oils, botanical powders, and plant residues or from microbial volatiles. They release volatile compounds toxic to pests but safe for humans and the environment, offering a sustainable pest management approach. Plants such as mustard and radish produce glucosinolates that release isothiocyanates, known for their pesticidal properties. Essential oils from eucalyptus, clove, and mint and volatiles from certain fungi and bacteria also exhibit fumigant properties. Biofumigants disrupt insect physiological and biochemical processes, leading to mortality or reduced reproduction. Studies showed their efficacy against pests like red flour beetle, lesser grain borer, and rice weevil. Unlike chemical fumigants, biofumigants do not leave harmful residues, preserving grain quality and aligning with organic farming practices. Shifting to biofumigants offers a promising, eco-friendly, and effective alternative for post-harvest pest management, ensuring food safety and sustainability

Enhancing floral diversity: A review of mutation breeding techniques in flower crops

Vishwanath S, Rajangam J, Rajadurai K R, Gnanasekaran M, Anitha T, Ravi R — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Flower crops encompass a wide range of ornamental annuals and perennials that are commercially cultivated for aesthetic appeal of their floral displays. Mutation induction has been used since the early 20th century to increase genetic diversity and develop new flower varieties with improved yield, quality, adaptation and market value. Mutation experiments have successfully created genetic variability and novel phenotypes in diverse floral species. Mutation breeding, which involves the induction of genetic variations via physical and chemical mutagens, has emerged as a vital technique for enhancing ornamental plant traits, such as flower color, shape, disease resistance and stress tolerance. It explores the types and applications of physical mutagens, such as gamma rays and ion beams and chemical mutagens, such as ethyl methane sulfonate (EMS) and sodium azide (SA). This review provides detailed insights into mutation breeding research conducted on major flower crops (e.g., rose, carnation, chrysanthemum and gerbera). This study also highlights achievements in the development of novel flower varieties, highlights the key challenges faced in mutation breeding programs and identifies gaps in research, particularly concerning the comparative efficacy of different mutagens, environmental impacts and genetic stability of mutated varieties. Furthermore, the impact of mutation breeding on the global flower market is discussed, emphasizing its role in expanding trait diversity, catering to niche markets and enhancing the commercial value of flower crops. Mutation breeding offers significant promise in the development of sustainable and climate-resilient ornamental crops that can meet the needs of emerging markets. This review serves as a valuable resource for students, scientists and breeders interested in leveraging mutation breeding for floral crop improvement.

Insect pest Spodoptera litura (Fabricius) and its resistance against the chemical insecticides: A review

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

A polyphagous nocturnal pest Spodoptera litura (Fabr.) commonly called armyworm, infests about 150 plant species across 44 families worldwide, with nearly 60 plant species affected just in India. The majority of leaf tissues are consumed by the larvae and only the stem and side shoots will remain in the field. They entirely consume the interior content by boring into them, causing squares and young bolls to shed. This insect can badly affect crops and has a wide range of potential hosts, which can lead to financial losses for farmers and food shortages for consumers. The worldwide distribution of S. litura as a pest results in significant impact on productivity of many crops. They have the capability to invade new places as a wide-ranging species. Armyworm frequently reappears in India every year and causes evident destruction. Different records on the insect population outbreak have been reported from many countries all around the world. The larvae of insect pests enter the fruits and even contaminate it and this causes yield and economic losses. The low temperatures of winter season are the limiting factors that affect species. It migrates mainly to breed during the summer season but is unable to survive in winters. S. litura acquired resistance to several synthetic insecticides, which led to pest outbreaks that were irregular and caused failure of different crops. The resistance and cross-resistance of this pest against insecticide toxin make it more difficult to reduce its population below threshold level. Understanding the mechanisms of resistance is crucial for developing effective resistance management strategies that can restrict or halt the spread of resistance in these pest populations.

A systematic literature review on current status and future prospects of pre-harvest sprouting management in rice

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) is a major constraint to rice in areas having high rainfall during late maturity. It poses a significant challenge to farmers, leading to yield loss and grain quality. Prolonged wet and humid conditions prevailing in North East India and incidence of cyclonic storms and heavy floods in other states cause PHS in rice. This systematic literature review (SLR) explored existing research on PHS's physiological, biochemical, molecular and environmental factors. A thorough approach that included a methodical Scopus literature search turned up 1236 papers, of which 60 research were selected for quantitative analysis following inclusion criteria. The papers dissected the genetic basis, population studies and genome analysis. Findings of seed dormancy regulation, Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with PHS resistance, genes involved in improving seed dormancy, reducing abscisic acid sensitivity and breeding RILs and NILs resistant to PHS were published. Molecular and biochemical studies reported heat shock proteins (HSPs), hormone-related genes (ABA and GA) and microRNAs as potential targets for developing strategies to prevent PHS in rice. Resilience to pre-harvest sprouting was attempted through exogenous application of chemicals such as eugenol, sodium chloride, glucose, coumarin, molybdenum, maleic hydrazide and uniconazole. Despite current management practices, challenges persist due to the absence of universally resistant varieties and the variability in environmental conditions. Potential gaps identified were a lack of research papers from Indian authors on PHS, a simple and novel technology for the farming community to arrest PHS under unfavourable environmental conditions. Future research directions emphasize integrating laboratory insights into genetic and molecular mechanisms into practical field technologies.

DNA barcoding: An effective molecular tool for species identification, molecular authentication and phylogeny studies in plant science research

V Divya Nair, Pareeda Aseema, Khem Chand Saini — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

DNA barcoding is a technique for identifying specimens using brief, standardised DNA segments. In a variety of fields, including phylogeny, ecology, population genetics and biodiversity, DNA barcoding has become a successful method for precisely distinguishing species. The method is straightforward, efficient in both time and money and accurate. The key to successful DNA barcoding is choosing the right DNA marker. Since the idea of a quick approach for species identification was first put up in 2003, the scientific community has been keen to realise the potential of DNA barcodes. Cytochrome c oxidase, I (COI) region of the mitochondrial genome is mostly recognised as a standard barcoding region in animals. Later, rbcL + matK pairing, with a 70 % discriminating efficiency, was suggested by the Plant Working Group (PWG) of the Consortium for the Barcoding of Life (CBOL) as the standard barcode in plants. Three conditions must be met for a gene region to be an efficient DNA barcode: it must have sufficient species-level genetic divergence and variability, it must have conserved flanking regions for the widest taxonomic use and for generating universal PCR primers and it should be long enough to facilitate current capability for sequencing and extracting DNA. Different combinations of plastid coding, non-coding and nuclear markers are utilised as supplemental markers to boost the degree of plant species differentiation. The reliability of different barcodes in distinguishing species varies among different groups of plants. As DNA barcoding approaches its twentieth anniversary, technologies are still being developed that make use of this resource, which is constantly expanding in a variety of biological disciplines. Plant DNA barcoding, which became a scientific advance during the last ten years, is frequently employed as a taxonomical aid in identifying species. It is a way of choosing genetic loci that identifies and distinguishes an organism's membership from specific species, variations or even intervarieties. It varies from molecular phylogeny, which identifies an unknown sample from an existing classification rather than identifying patterns of association.

Nutrient nourishment through organic approach: a critical review on foliar nutrition

EM Chandan , R Krishnan , E Parameswari , P Janaki, G Prabhukumar — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Nutrients play a pivotal role in the growth, development and overall health of plants. However, the widespread use of inorganic fertilizers in modern agriculture has led to significant environmental and health concerns, including soil degradation, water contamination and the disruption of beneficial soil microbiota. These issues underscore the urgency of exploring alternative, sustainable fertilization methods. This review critically examines the potential of organic fertilizers in addressing the nutritional deficiencies in soil that are exacerbated by the reliance on inorganic inputs. Our research hypothesizes that organic fertilizers not only replenish essential nutrients but also restore soil health by enhancing microbial diversity and activity. This hypothesis is significant and timely, given the growing global demand for sustainable agricultural practices. For the first time, our synthesis reveals overlooked interdisciplinary connections between soil microbiology, plant nutrition and sustainable agricultural economics, offering a novel perspective on the integration of organic fertilizers into mainstream agricultural practices. The breakthrough identified in this review lies in the comprehensive understanding of how organic fertilizers contribute to long-term soil fertility and crop productivity, beyond merely supplying nutrients. Moreover, this review identifies promising business opportunities in the development and commercialization of organic fertilizers tailored to specific crop and soil needs. Prospective directions for further research include the exploration of advanced organic formulations and the assessment of their economic viability on a large scale.

Downy mildew of millets - An overview

B Yuvashree, I Johnson, M Karthikeyan, R Anandham — Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Amidst global food insecurity, malnutrition, agricultural challenges, and climate change, millet farming is emerging as a viable alternativedue to its high nutritional value, resilience to extreme weather conditions, and adaptability to marginal soils. Often referred to as “super-crops”, millets gained international recognition in March 2021 during the 75^th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Millets rank among the most important crops globally, following rice, wheat, maize, and sorghum. However, they are susceptible to more than fifty diseases, with the most destructive being ‘Downy Mildew’. This disease is caused by oomycete pathogens such as Sclerospora graminicola, Peronosclerospora sorghi and Sclerophthora macrospora, posing a significant threat to millet production, with yield losses ranging from 50% to 100%. This review emphasizes the importance of millet and the devastating effects of downy mildew on its yields. It explores the physiological and histological changes induced by the disease, the characterization of effector protein, and the genetic variability in millet populations. Additionally, various management techniques for combating downy mildew are examined, including chemical treatments, induced resistance, organic-based approaches, cultural practices, resistant genotypes, and advancements in nanotechnology. By compiling current knowledge on millet disease and effective management strategies, this review aims to serve as a comprehensive resource for researchers and farmers, supporting sustainable millet farming and improving global food security.

Green horizons: Exploring the potential of vertical green walls

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The term “Green walls” also known as vertical gardens or living walls has emerged as a promising solution to combat the environmental challenges posed by rapid urbanization. This review explores the concept ornamental, plant choice suitable and benefits associated with green walls in urban settings. Utilising vegetation to cover vertical surfaces, green walls offer several benefits to the environment, society and economy. They contribute to improved air quality, noise reduction, energy conservation and biodiversity enhancement. Vertical greenery allows for the utilization of unused wall surfaces, creating green areas without occupying valuable ground space, which is often scarce in urban environments. Additionally, green walls offer aesthetic appeal, promote urban agriculture and create opportunities for community engagement. However, their implementation requires careful consideration of factors such as structural integrity, irrigation and maintenance. Despite these challenges, green walls offer a sustainable and innovative approach to enhancing the quality of urban life while mitigating the negative impacts of urban development on the environment. The current emphasis highlights the significance of green walls as an effective tool in sustainable urban planning, underscoring the need for further research and their integration into urban planning practices.

Advancements in nanobiochar for environmental remediation: A comprehensive review

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This study delves into the diverse domain of biochar and its nano-variant, discussing their definitions, synthesis methods, properties and applications. Biochar, produced from various raw materials through different synthesis techniques, possesses unique characteristics that make it valuable for a wide range of uses. Nanobiochar, a new derivative, offers improved properties due to its nano-scale structure, enabling advanced applications. The study examines the physical and chemical attributes, surface area and pore structure of nanobiochar, along with methods for its functionalization and modifications. Synthesis techniques for nanobiochar are analyzed and compared with those for biochar and activated carbon. The versatility of nanobiochar is highlighted in its environmental, agricultural and energy applications, especially in water and soil purification, soil enhancement and energy storage. The environmental impact and safety considerations are also discussed, including eco-toxicity assessment, fate and transport in the environment and regulatory aspects. Additionally, the study addresses challenges, future perspectives, emerging trends and potential breakthroughs in nanobiochar research, emphasizing the need for ongoing exploration and innovation. In conclusion, nanobiochar shows great potential as a sustainable and versatile material with extensive applications, but it requires careful consideration of environmental and safety issues.

Agricultural carbon credits: A pathway to environmental sustainability

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Climate change and ensuring food security for a rapidly growing global population are two of the biggest challenges in agriculture. To meet the commitments made in the Paris Climate Agreement, it is important to use effective methods for managing soil that can help sequester and stabilise carbon. Conservation agriculture has a huge potential to sequester carbon in plants and soil, making it a viable option for carbon trading despite its significant contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions. Carbon sequestration can be achieved through sustainable practices such as adopting conservation agriculture, crop rotation, cover crop cultivation, crop residue incorporation or mulching, effective management of nutrient supply to crops, and transforming towards organic agriculture and agroforestry. These practices promote food security and environmental improvement and help mitigate global warming. Carbon pricing mechanisms are policies that impose a cost on carbon pollution, encouraging people and organisations to choose low-carbon options and reduce their emissions. Agricultural producers can benefit from carbon trading by earning extra revenue by selling their excess carbon credits to those who emit higher amounts of greenhouse gases. Carbon credit systems in agriculture are still in the early stages, so farmers may have more opportunities to participate in future carbon trading.

Outlook on nutritional importance and breeding strategies for oil and quality improvement in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

S R V N Ganesh Babu, R Saraswathi, A Mahalingam, M Paramasivan, N Manivannan — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), is a pivotal crop in global agriculture due to its high oil content (50-60 %), rich in quality unsaturated fatty acids and an array of bioactive compounds like sesamin and sesamol. This review is a compilation of information on sesame nutrition, mechanism of action of bioactive principles, health benefits in terms of unsaturated fats, antioxidants and essential nutrients to combat health disorders. The genetic resources are the base for any crop improvement programs. The genetic wealth of this crop as ex-situ conservation world-wide, traits of importance from its wild relatives, studies on genetic diversity through agronomic and molecular techniques for quality traits are focused. Both conventional and molecular breeding methods are examined. Conventional breeding efforts covers trait variability, correlations, gene action, combining ability studies, breeding methods and varieties released. The insights into molecular biology probes the novel QTLs, discovery of candidate genes, molecular markers for quality traits, genome sequencing, advancements in gene expression studies, genetic maps and pangemone. Despite the significant progress, the lacuna and future prospects in these areas are highlighted. Integrating the information from modern genomic technologies with conventional methods is the key to maximize the crop's potential for oil and nutritional security.

Effect of landfill leachates on urban soil: A review

Sat, 12 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The increasing generation of Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) is a significant global concern, with landfills receiving around 1.4 billion tonnes of MSW yearly. Inadequate landfill management contributes to environmental degradation, with landfill leachate being a substantial outcome of MSW decomposition. Leachate contains inorganic nutrients, volatile and dissolved organic molecules and heavy metals and its properties vary depending on waste composition, moisture content and seasonal elements. Heavy metals found in leachate include Pb, Cu, Cr, Ni, Mn, Hg, Fe, Zn and Cd and Emerging Organic Contaminants (EOCs) such as Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), Endocrine Disrupting Chemicals (EDC), pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products (PCPs) are also prevalent. Microplastics (MPs) have been found in raw leachate samples at concentrations ranging from 49.0 ± 24.3 to 507.6 ± 37.3 items/L. Landfill leachate production ranks among the most aggressive pollutants to the environment, particularly to soil and poses a danger of contaminating both surface and groundwater. This review examines the potential impacts of landfill leachate on soil quality and the broader implications of this phenomenon, summarizing recent scientific studies and presenting the direct and indirect effects of leachate on soil based on the literature. Bibliometric analysis of publications in the Scopus database reveals a growing scholarly interest in this topic, with the number of publications in the Science Citation Index (SCI) database increasing dramatically to over 464 articles between 2009 and 2024.

Eco-renaissance in floriculture: unlocking the power of plant growth-promoting bacteria

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The conventional floriculture industry heavily relies on chemical fertilizers and pesticides to meet global demand, which can have detrimental environmental impacts. To promote sustainable flower cultivation, Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) has emerged as eco-friendly tools to enhance the productivity of major commercial flower crops. This review summarizes the current knowledge on diverse PGPB genera associated with ornamentals like rose, gerbera, carnation, chrysanthemum and orchids. It examines the abilities of PGPB to improve yield, quality and stress tolerance of flowers through mechanisms such as biological nitrogen fixation, nutrient solubilization, phytohormone synthesis, induced systemic resistance and antagonism against pathogens. The potential of developing microbial consortia and bioformulations as PGPB-based biofertilizers, bio stimulants and biopesticides for sustainable floriculture is discussed. By identifying research gaps and prospects, this review highlights the role of PGPB in driving sustainable intensification of commercial flower production with reduced environmental footprint.

Bark ringing in fruit crops - A review

S S Nithiya, S Saraswathy, C Rajamanickam, A Vijayasamundeeswari, T Anitha — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Bark ringing or Girdling, a horticultural technique involving the removal of a strip of bark around the trunk or branches of fruit trees, has been widely studied and utilized to influence various aspects of fruit crop management. This practice primarily enhances fruit production, regulates canopy growth, and improves fruit quality. By interrupting the downward flow of nutrients and hormones, girdling can stimulate root development in hardwood cuttings and modify vegetative growth patterns. For instance, it has effectively reduced canopy shoot growth in vigorous apple cultivars, thereby improving fruit yield and quality. Additionally, girdling techniques such as notching and scoring control shoot growth and promote scaffold development in young trees. The method also has implications for nutrient distribution, as it can impact the formation of callus tissue and affect recovery processes. Despite its benefits, girdling can lead to undesirable outcomes, such as basal sprouting below the girdle. This abstract summarizes the critical applications, effects and considerations of girdling in fruit crop management, highlighting its role in optimizing fruit production and tree health.

Comprehensive overview of host plant resistance and its progress in wilt resistance in castor bean (Ricinus communis L.)

R Hari Haran, S R Venkatachalam, P Arutchenthil, P A Saravanan, S K Natarajan — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Castor bean, a non-edible monotypic species known for its unique hydroxy fatty acid, is susceptible to a range of pathogens. Wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ricini is the most complex and destructive disease. Chemical control of wilt has proven ineffective due to the systemic nature of the disease and the seed and soil borne nature of the pathogen. Physical, chemical, biological, and integrated management methods have shown only limited success in controlling wilt. Host plant resistance, however, stands out as the most promising strategy, offering a viable pathway for the genetic improvement of castor beans for wilt resistance. Screening techniques are well established, and several resistant donors have already been identified. While significant progress has been made in understanding the inheritance of wilt resistance, a complete understanding of its genetic mechanisms still requires further research. Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) markers and genomic regions linked to wilt resistance have been successfully identified. Reniform nematode (Rotylenchulus reniformis) has been identified as a predisposing factor for wilt, and genomic regions linked to nematode resistance have also been identified. However, Marker-assisted selection has not yet been utilized to develop wilt-resistant castor varieties. Further research is required to explore the pathogen diversity, host-pathogen interactions, and mechanisms underlying wilt resistance including the metabolites responsible for preventing the emergence of new pathogenic races and ensuring long-term protection against wilt.

Millets in Indian perspective: Importance, processing and value addition – A review

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Millet is a crop of ancient origins predominantly cultivated in Asian and African nations. This particular crop thrives in arid regions and requires minimal water resources. Notably, millet serves as a dietary staple in certain countries and offers economic opportunities for farmers, contributing to their livelihoods. Following the announcement of the official title of 2023 as the international year of millet, there has been an increased recognition and emphasis placed on millet. This comprehensive assessment aims to provide individuals with a clear understanding of millets by examining aspects such as recent production and consumption in the world, India, and Tamil Nadu, health benefits (cardiac health, gut health, weight management, gluten-free, sugar maintenance, antioxidants rich food), processing techniques (dehulling, milling, soaking, germination/malting, fermentation, flaking, popping, roasting, extrusion and microwave treatment) and the effects of processing on millets. Furthermore, it sheds light on initiatives and schemes from the Indian Government, in addition to the value addition of millets (weaning foods, baked foods, fermented foods, functional foods, beverages, and traditional foods), which can be beneficial for entrepreneurs and to improve a healthy lifestyle among the population. This review discussed the positive environmental effects of millet cultivation and value addition and the recent market of millet-based food products.

Unraveling the intriguing potential of protein-rich microbial biostimulants for horticultural crops

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Nutritional security and minimizing the impact of farming practices on the environment are major challenges in modern farming systems. Currently, the horticulture sector is growing fast and moving towards sustainability and profitability. Indiscriminate and improper use of chemical inputs to ensure high yields of horticultural products could lead to significant contamination of soil and water bodies. Under these circumstances, farmers must optimize their input management to reduce pollution and preserve the economic margin by following sustainable production practices. The use of precision horticulture techniques is more sustainable than conventional to intensive farming methods. Among the various eco-friendly inputs, plant biostimulants are highly effective and can enhance plant growth and production as well as mitigate the adverse effects of abiotic stressors. Protein Hydrolysates (PHs) are a significant class of plant biostimulants based on amino acid and peptide mixtures. Because of their beneficial effects on crop performance, PHs has drawn increased amounts of attention recently. Compared with other biostimulants microbial biostimulants are more prevalent in crop production. A new approach is the formulation of a mixture of plant growth-promoting microorganisms/microbe-derived metabolites and protein hydrolysates as single biostimulants, to nourish the soil, plants and microbes. This review presents a thorough summary of recent research on the postulated modes of action of PHs and microbial biostimulants in horticultural crops. Furthermore, this study highlights the potential of protein hydrolysates and microbial biostimulants and the potential of the protein-rich microbial biostimulants to make horticulture more profitable and to safeguard the environment.

Bio-efficacies of essential oils against food-borne bacteria

Deepika Beniwal, Sarika Gupta — Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

This review examines the impact of essential oils (EOs) in food manufacturing and their potential as natural preservatives. Food is a substance ingested by an organism and assimilated by the organism's cells to supply energy to maintain life and stimulate growth. Chemical preservatives like benzoates, nitrites, sulphites, and sorbates added to the processed food items have various side effects on humans. An approach that uses of essential oils (EOs) enhance the shelf-life of the manufactured foods, which have no side effects on the consumer’s health. EOs has shown significant antioxidant, and antimicrobial effects in food industries. Due to their various activities, EOs could be used as alternative preservatives to increase the shelf lives of processed food. Additionally, the use of EOs as natural preservatives aligns with the growing consumer demand for clean label and natural ingredients in food products. The potential applications of EOs in food preservation are wide-ranging, including their use in meat products, bakery products, dairy products, and beverages. Moreover, their effectiveness against a wide range of microorganisms, including pathogenic bacteria, yeast, and molds, makes them an attractive option for food preservation. Despite the potential benefits, there are some challenges associated with the use of EOs in food manufacturing. The purpose of this review was to advocate the use of EOs as natural, safe, and eco-friendly preservatives that have the potential to revolutionize the food industry by reducing the use of chemical preservatives and providing consumers with healthier and safer food products.

A glimpse through the origin, composition and biomedical applications of green tea and its polyphenols: A review

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Green tea is an aromatic healthy beverage that is the least processed type of tea, containing numerous bioactive components beneficial to humans. It is produced from the plant Camelia sinensis, a shrub native to Asia. This article reviews the literature review on the origin, manufacturing, composition, biomedical applications and health benefits of green tea and its polyphenols. The main bioactive components of green tea are polyphenols, primarily flavonoids. Catechins are the main flavonoids present in tea. These high-potential compounds can stimulate certain enzymes and alter cellular functions by preventing the oxidation of biomolecules due to their antioxidant properties. The catechins found in tea include (-) –epicatechin (EC), (-) epigallocatechin (EGC), (-)-epicatechin-3-gallate (ECG) and epigallocatechin -3-gallate (EGCG). Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is the most prominent catechin in fresh leaves, constituting around 50-60 % of the flavonoids. EGCG is the active component with significant health benefits. These catechins contribute to therapeutic actions and the prevention of infections. Recent research on green tea suggests various applications based on its medicinal value to reduce the risk of many diseases.

Scouting rice (Oryza sativa L.) landraces for moisture stress tolerance using morphometric diversity analysis

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Climate-change is a major threat to sustainable agriculture. Rice is one of the staple food grains that sustain 2/3rd of global population. Therefore, developing climate-resilient rice genotypes to combat moisture stress and other climate change factors are most important to address the challenges posed by climate change. The vast availability of genetic variance among the rice genotypes for different traits favours the selection of desirable donor parents. A field investigation was carried out to characterize 21 traditional rice landraces under induced moisture stress in 2 environments including induced moisture stress (S) and non-stress (NS). The response to the varied level of environments was observed in terms of biometric and yield parameters followed by multivariate analysis and variability analysis. The study revealed higher phenotypic-coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic-coefficient of variation (GCV) for plant height and single plant yield in both environments. High heritability was also recorded in the moisture stressed environment for plant height (98.63 %), single plant yield (98.19 %) and productive tillers (95.12 %), whereas under NS, the heritability is more for single plant yield only (99.56 %). The genotypes formed nine clusters under the S environment, based on the Euclidean distance, of which the three CMS lines segregated in cluster III distinctly. The principal component analysis exhibited three principal components with a cumulative variance of 86.13 % and 86.40 % in the NS and S environments respectively. The traits such as days to 50 % flowering, panicle height, panicle length, grains per panicle, productive tillers, thousand-grain weight and single plant yield were the positive contributors. Spikelet fertility (%) and harvest index were positively correlated with seed yield per plant. Path-coefficient analysis was significant for grain yield, harvest index, spikelet fertility, pollen fertility and plant height and positively influenced by productive tillers plant-1. The study concluded the prospect of using Mattaikar, Rajalakshmi, Mallikar and Kuliyadichan as potential donors for developing upland rice with moisture stress resilience.

A study on the potential of endophytic bacteria to promote plant growth: uses in agriculture and future directions

Debajani Das, Sandeep Das — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The escalating demand for chemical-free fertilizers in agriculture stems from the adverse impacts associated with chemical fertilizers on both human and animal health, as well as environmental pollution. To address this concern, plant-based microorganisms emerge as a promising solution for the development of environmentally sustainable biofertilizers. Among these microorganisms, endophytic bacteria, residing within plant tissues without causing harm to the host plant, exhibit exceptional attributes conducive to plant growth promotion. Notably, these bacteria demonstrate the production of phytohormones, ammonia, phosphate solubilization, and nitrogen fixation capabilities. Additionally, endophytic bacteria showcase the synthesis of hydrolytic enzymes, the production of siderophores, and antimicrobial activity against pathogens. Such characteristics contribute significantly to the robust growth and development of host plants, fostering tolerance to environmental stresses. This manuscript aims to comprehensively review the plant growth promotion activities of endophytic bacteria, elucidating their diversity and isolation from various plants. Furthermore, it explores the potential future directions in this burgeoning field of research, envisioning the development of endophytic bacterial strains capable of replacing traditional chemical fertilizers. Future research endeavors hold the promise of uncovering novel and effective endophytic bacterial strains, heralding a sustainable paradigm shift in the realm of agricultural fertilization.

Revolutionizing livestock sustainability: Pioneering breeding strategies for superior forage biomass and quality

Pawan Kumar Dash, K. N Ganesan, N. Manivannan, S. Vellai Kumar, , R. Pushpam — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Livestock primarily rely on forage crops as a source of feed and nutrition. The milk productivity of a cow or meat production in goat/sheep could directly be associated with the availability of a sufficient quantity of quality green fodders with essential nutrients in a balanced ratio. Feeding the cereal/grass: legume fodders in the required proportion will not only improve productivity but also the reproductive capacity of animals. However, many countries of the world experience a huge gap between demand and availability of green fodder. In this context, emphasis should be placed on developing efficient forage genotypes with increased biomass and quality as per the requirements of animals, duly considering their digestibility. Breeding approaches encompassing required classical approaches, including wide hybridization to exploit natural genetic variability, biotechnological tools such as transgenic technology, marker-assisted selection, genomic selection, and various omics techniques alongside high-throughput phenotyping using multispectral cameras, would help to sustain livestock productivity by meeting out the present and future fodder requirements coupled with enhanced nutrients

Enhancing rice aroma through innovative approaches

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Aromatic rice is used extensively in many different cuisines around the world for its wonderful aroma and cooking qualities. Aromatic rice varieties such as Basmati and non-Basmati fragrant rice have gained popularity in both domestic and foreign markets, despite their origins being predominantly in Southeast Asia and the Indian subcontinent. The primary gene responsible for rice aroma is the fgr/Badh2/Os2-AP, situated on chromosome 8 and encodes betaine aldehyde dehydrogenase 2 (Badh2). Key aroma compounds are attributed to over 500 volatiles. The primary aromatic molecule in rice, 2-acetyl-1-pyrroline (2-AP), accumulates as a result of mutations in this gene and gives rice its distinctive scent. Aroma is not decided by single compound rather it is decided by volatile profile and also by environmental factors. The identification of Quantitative Trait Loci (QTLs) linked to fragrance features on different chromosomes has improved our comprehension of the genetic processes behind rice scent. Advances in genetic engineering, particularly CRISPR/Cas9 and TALEN have facilitated the manipulation of the Badh2 gene, enhancing aroma profiles in rice. Additionally, gene silencing and introgression techniques have also proven in increasing 2-AP content. The review explores the biochemical properties and advancement of aromatic rice, emphasizing its complex inheritance patterns and potential for breeding improvement.

Mushroom alkaloids as nutraceuticals, bioactive and medicinal properties: a preliminary review

Archana O, Praveen Kumar Nagadesi — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Mushroom alkaloids are quite interesting due to their distinct secondary metabolites. Alkaloids are a class of secondary metabolites that are found in different types of organisms. The primary focus of this study is the alkaloids that were taken out of the mushrooms. Mainly the mushrooms alkaloids are classified as 2 groups like indoles and isoxazoles. In the present paper 68 distinct alkaloids produced from mushrooms were attempted to be listed under 24 distinct groups; i.e. 24 alkaloids were kept under Indole group, 5 different alkaloids were kept under ? - carboline group and pyrroloquinoline group, 4 different alkaloids were kept under pyrrole group, and 3 different alkaloids were mentioned under quinoline groups. Mushrooms were used as food in many parts of the world. The alkaloids obtained from mushrooms showing different bioactivities like antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-diabetic, hepatoprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-obesity, anti - ageing, nematicidal, helmintic, against cardiovascular disease and as antiasthmatic agent. Mushrooms were widely used in the traditional medicine of many countries like china, India, Taiwan, Japan etc. these mushrooms became great resources for many groups of alkaloids with bioactivities which should be useful in present day modern clinical and pharmacological research. The present review aims at listing the applications of mushroom alkaloids in different fields like medicine, health science, pharmacy etc.

Economic impact, pathogen identification and management of blossom and peduncle blight in tuberose: A review

S. Vimal, M. Deivamani, A. Sudha , M.A. Vennila , K. Indhumathi — Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In the global floriculture industry, tuberose [Agave amica (Medik.) Thiede & Govaerts syn. Polianthes tuberosa L.] holds significant economic and cultural value, particularly in regions like Tamil Nadu, India. However, the cultivation of this valuable flower is increasingly threatened by diseases such as blossom blight and peduncle blight. This review examines the economic importance of tuberose and the severe impact of these blights, caused by Fusarium equiseti and Lasiodiplodia theobromae respectively, which can
result in crop losses of up to 43 %. The identification and morphological characteristics of these pathogens are discussed, emphasizing the need for accurate detection and diagnosis to manage these diseases effectively. This article also reviews current management strategies, including chemical fungicides, biocontrol agents and cultural practices, highlighting the efficacy of carbendazim and tebuconazole against L. theobromae and the potential of Aimcozim and organic amendments against F. equiseti . Climate change exacerbates the impact of these diseases, necessitating adaptive management practices. Despite progress, research gaps remain in developing integrated disease management strategies and understanding the long-term effects of climate change on disease epidemiology. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge and to encourage further research, with the goal of enhancing the sustainability of tuberose cultivation in the face of these increasing challenges.

Small millets: A multifunctional crop for achieving sustainable food security under climate change

Sun, 10 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Millets, a varied collection of small-seeded crops from the Poaceae family, are re-emerging as a viable alternative for sustainable food and nutritional security in the context of climate change. Historically a staple in India, millet consumption declined during the Green Revolution due to emphasis on rice and wheat. However, their nutritional enrichment and climate resilience are rekindling interest. Over ten millet species, including sorghum, pearl, and finger millet, are cultivated globally and thrive in marginal lands with minimal water and low nutrients. Their C₄ photosynthetic pathway enhances water-use efficiency, making them suitable for hot, dry climates. Despite their benefits, millets face challenges, such as consumer preferences for rice and wheat and vulnerabilities to extreme weather events. Nevertheless, they offer significant nutritional advantages, including high levels of dietary fiber, essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. India is a leading millet producer, cultivating various types and experiencing a recent production surge. Investigations into the resilience of millets underscore their capacity to endure environmental stresses. Strategies for improving millet crops include conventional breeding, mutation breeding, and advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9. Bio-fortification efforts aim to address micronutrient deficiencies, with promising results in finger millet varieties. Advancements in genetic engineering and genome editing tools are revolutionizing millet improvement. The pangenome concept, which explores genetic diversity within species, offers a framework for developing enhanced cultivars. Integrating wild millet varieties into breeding programs can further unlock their potential. Comprehensive policy initiatives supporting millet cultivation, research, and public awareness are crucial for promoting these nutrient-rich grains, enhancing food security, and fostering sustainable agriculture.

Olax dissitiflora Oliv. (small-fruited olax): Current status and future prospects as medicinal plant

Alfred Maroyi — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Olax dissitiflora Oliv. (O. dissitiflora) has several medicinal uses, some of them known since prehistoric times. The present review compiles existing knowledge of the chemical and pharmacological properties, current medicinal uses, and further use potential and applications of O. dissitiflora. Multiple searches on existing literature on the medicinal, phytochemistry and pharmacological properties of O. dissitiflora were conducted in online databases such as Scopus, JSTOR, PubMed, Google Scholar and Science Direct as well as using pre-electronic literature sources obtained from the university library. This study showed that the bark, leaves, roots and twigs of O. dissitiflora are used as aphrodisiac, emetic, mosquito repellent and purgative, and as traditional medicines against dental problems, gonorrhoea, hernia, venereal diseases and wounds. The phytochemical evaluation of the plant revealed that it contains reducing sugars, alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolic compounds, quinones, saponins, steroids, tannins, terpenoids, 21-epimachaerinic acid, oleanolic acid, hederagenin, oleanolic acid 3-O-glucuronide, amphotericin, santalbic acid, exocarpic acid and octadic-9,11-diynoic acid. The pharmacological assessments showed that the crude extracts and phytochemical compounds isolated from the species have antibacterial, antifungal, antiplasmodial, larvicidal and adulticidal activities. The collected ethnomedicinal and ethnopharmacological properties of O. dissitiflora documented in this review will assist to understand the therapeutic relevance and potential of the species as well as providing baseline data required for ethnopharmacological assessments required in the discovery of novel plant-based health products. There is also need for more studies focusing on phytochemistry, pharmacological properties and toxicological evaluations, in vivo and clinical research on O. dissitiflora to compliment and validate the ethnomedicinal properties of the species.

Green guardians: Harnessing biopesticides for sustainable vegetable pest management

Mon, 18 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0700

Insect pests pose significant challenges to vegetable crops, causing not only economic losses but also compromising the quality of our food. Shockingly, up to 20 % of globally produced goods fall victim to these insidious invaders. While chemical insecticides have historically bolstered food production, they come with notable drawbacks, including handling risks, residue concerns and negative impacts on non-target species and the environment.
Though they have not yet completely replaced chemical insecticides, biopesticides are becoming key in reducing pesticide overuse and promoting safer, residue-free food and environments. Derived from plants and microorganisms, biopesticides offer a safer alternative, ranging from plant extracts to microbial agents such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and nematodes. Additionally, insect hormones and semiochemicals, along with silica-based mineral products like activated clay and rice husk, contribute to eco-friendly pest control solutions. Cutting-edge nano biopesticides also deliver unparalleled pest control with precision targeting and excellent environmental credentials.
In this comprehensive exploration, we delve deep into the myriad forms of biopesticides, their commercial availability, modes of action and the advantages and disadvantages in vegetable pest management. Crucially, we illuminate the path toward integrating biopesticides into holistic pest management strategies, which can lead to healthier crops, increased yields and more sustainable agricultural practices. By emphasizing biopesticides, we can promote environmental safety and support a greener future in agriculture.

Bulbs to blooms: advancements in sustainable lilium farming

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

The commercial cultivation and marketing of cut flowers presents significant opportunities. The market for exotic cut flowers is expanding day to day. Lilium holds a significant position in cut flower industry and is recognized as one of the top ten major varieties in the global floriculture sector. Its cultivation in non-traditional areas needs to be explored to meet the increasing demand. Hence, different research work has been undertaken in different places in order to standardize the cultivation of Lilium in open conditions. However, its cultivation is now being done under protected structures for better quality and yield. Furthermore, the practice of protected cultivation makes it possible to grow Lilium in non-traditional areas. An effort has been made to compile the production techniques developed for the commercial production of Lilium, such as higher yielding cultivars, suitable propagation techniques, intercultural operations, insect-pest disease management and post-harvest technology. These techniques will be replicated in non-traditional areas after proper validation.

A conspectus of the genus Pigea (Violaceae) in India

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

An updated conspectus of the genus Pigea in India is provided based on live and herbarium specimens. We recognize three species, namely P. enneasperma, P. indica and P. travancorica and exclude three species from the National Flora, namely P. vatsavayae ( Hybanthus vatsavayae), P. stellarioides ( H.stellarioides) and P. puberula ( H. puberulus). Detailed notes are provided.

Andean tubers: traditional medicine and other applications

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Tubers are a staple food in Andean highland communities, valued for their rich carbohydrate content with starch being the predominant component. Additionally their consumption is preferred for various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory effects, pain relief, digestive system improvement, diabetes management and wound healing, among others. Several studies have focused on Andean tubers such as Oxalis tuberosa, Tropaeolum tuberosum, Ullucus tuberosus, Arracacia xanthorrhiza and Smallanthus sonchifolius, revealing different compounds with pharmacological effects on humans and strengthening the immune system. Therefore, the objective of this review was to compile information from different databases such as Scopus and Web of Science on research conducted in the last decade on these tubers, highlighting their health benefits and potential for technological innovation for the benefit of the Andean communities that produce these crops. These tubers have been little marketed outside their production areas due to a lack of awareness. Although their applications have been limited, they have shown positive results, making them promising sources of health-beneficial phytochemicals. They could be used in technological developments to benefit health, particularly in addressing diseases that cause the most deaths.

Breeding for flooding tolerance in rice: Advancements and future perspectives

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Rice, the resilient grain, is cultivated in different types of ecosystems, from seacoast to hilly areas. Unfortunately, due to climate change, it frequently suffers from submergence stress during its growth period. Anoxic stress at the germination phase, flash flooding during the vegetative phase and water stagnation in low-lying areas are the major types of flooding in rice. When floodwaters rise, rice adapts. Some varieties stretch their stems toward the surface, gasping for air. Others remain dormant, conserving energy, like the FR13A landrace, SUB1 equips rice with underwater endurance. It orchestrates a genetic symphony, fine-tuning metabolic pathways and signalling survival. Some of the promising quantitative trait locus (QTLs) identified are qAG-9-2, which is responsible for anaerobic germination tolerance; qSUB1 for vegetative stage submergence tolerance, and qTIL12 for deep water adaptation. Identifying other novel QTLs and donors helps to breed varieties tolerant to different types of submergence stress. Along with Swarna SUB1, many mega-submergence-tolerant varieties have been developed and released for cultivation in Asia. As we cultivate these versatile survivors, we sow hope for a food-secure future.

Sole and sequential application of herbicides and botanicals for weed management in summer sesame

Swastika Hota, Subhaprada Dash, Utpal B. Joshi — Thu, 24 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Weed infestation poses a significant challenge in sesame cultivation, leading to yield losses and decreased economic returns for farmers. The present study comprehensively analyses various weed control approaches, including allelopathic interaction with integrating herbicides and hand-weeding practices. The experiment was conducted at the Agriculture Farm, SOA, Odisha, during the summer of 2023 with 10 weed management treatments in RBD with 3 replications. The objective was to study different weed management practices, including the sole and sequential application of herbicides and botanicals, to control diverse weeds and enhance summer sesame growth, yield and profitability. The dominance of Digitaria sanguinalis (L.) Scop., Echinochloa colona (L.) Link. and Poa annua L. among grassy weeds and Melochia corchorifolia L., Cleome viscosa L. and Cassia tora L. among the broadleaved weeds were evident in summer sesame. The execution of different treatments showed that integrated use of aqueous leaf extract of Parthenium hysterophorus at 5 % concentration, followed by quizalofop-p-ethyl at 50 g/ha, was found on par with hand-weeding and brought down the weed count and biomass, which in turn increased the growth of summer sesame. The maximum yield of (793 kg seed/ha and 3035 kg stalk/ha) was registered under twice hand weeding. It was comparable with the spraying of aqueous leaf extract of Parthenium hysterophorus at 5 % concentration followed by (fb) quizalofop-p-ethyl at 50 g/ha (772 kg seed/ ha and 2968 kg stalk/ha). Economic analysis of sesame revealed that the maximum return (Rs. 37454/- per ha) and return/rupee (2.28) were recorded with aqueous leaf extract of P. hysterophorus at 5 % concentration fb quizalofop-p-ethyl at 50 g/ha treatment.

Altitudinal Variations of Ground Species in the Southern Aravalli regions of Rajasthan, India

Shimly Stanly, Karthikeyan P, Arpita Kumari, Rajendrakumar S — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Ground layer species sustain a variety of plants and animals; and maintain a healthy and resilient forest ecosystem by contributing to ecological functioning, structural support, and biodiversity. The western Indian Aravalli range is noted for its vegetation. Studies from these regions indicate that various environmental factors influence plant diversity and its distributions. The present study examines the impacts of altitude on ground species in Rajasthan's southern Aravalli hill ranges. We conducted field investigations year-round in Phulwari Ki Nal Wildlife Sanctuary, Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary at different altitudes. A random transect method was used; five 1m² plots were laid at every 250m interval. Species’ names and numbers were recorded from sampling plots. Sanctuary-wise species richness, density, and diversity were analyzed and related with altitude. The protected areas of Southern Aravalli do not follow an altitude-specific pattern in ground species distribution. Specific lower altitude ranges had the most species richness, density, and diversity. While altitude showed both positive and negative correlations with respect to ground species richness, diversity and density. The study findings help in conserving and preserving ground layer species in the Aravalli regions of Rajasthan.

Phytochemistry, antibacterial and antioxidant properties from Adinandra hongiaoensis and Polyspora huongiana (Theaceae)

Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Adinandra hongiaoensis and Polyspora huongiana are the rare and native species found in Vietnam. Firstly, the present studies demonstrated the chemical components, antioxidant and antibacterial effects of the acetone extracts from these plants. Here, a total of 54 constituents are identified in the leaf extracts of 2 studied species using the gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) method. The P. huongiana extract displayed activity against 3 Staphylococcus strains, including S. saprophyticus, S. aureus ATCC 29213 and S. aureus ATCC 25923 while the A. hongiaoensis extract was not active any studied bacteria. In addition, A. hongiaoensis and P. huongiana extracts was found effective against the DPPH radical scavenger with IC50 value of 213.31 and 47.60 µg/mL respectively. Hopefully, the results of this report will provide a premise further research to apply these species in pharmaceutical product development in the future.

New records of three Basidiomycetous species from Iraq using phenotypic and phylogenetic analyses

Sun, 27 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

Wild macrofungi have potential functions in ecosystems and sustainable developments through their roles in waste management, human health and societal upliftment. However, there is limited knowledge of wild macrofungi in Iraq. Three interesting collections within Chlorophyllum, Mycenastrum and Ossicaulis genera related to basidiomycetes were discovered in central and northeastern parts of Iraq in 2022 during a field investigation on wild macrofungi. Molecular identification and morphological characterization were carried out for these collections. The molecular phylogenetic and phenotypic analyses confirmed that isolates are related to three species within two families )Agaricaceae and Lyophyllaceae) belonging to the order Agaricales and class Agaricomycetes. Based on the current publications, these species were the first records from Iraq. Chlorophyllum agaricoides, Mycenastrum corium and Ossicaulis salomii sequences were submitted as the first sequences from Iraq into the international biological database GenBank. The molecular phylogenetic tree formed three independent lineages in each genus with high support. The introduced species can easily be separated from closely related species in an evolutionary framework. The study's results might aid in further investigations into the macrofungi in Iraq.