Showing papers in "International journal of Bio-resource and Stress Management in 2013"

Vegetable Seed Priming: a Low Cost, Simple and Powerful Techniques for Farmers’ Livelihood

Abstract: Seed priming is a simple, low-cost, low-risk intervention and powerful technique for improve seedling emergence, seedling vigour and yields of several field crops. There exist different priming techniques viz. Hydro-priming, Halo-priming, Osmo-priming and solid matrix priming. On-farm priming has been practiced on maize, rice wheat and other field crops as well as vegetable crops with success. With respect to vegetable crops, priming techniques have been adopted to study their effect on seedling vigor and agronomic traits including yield of tomato, chilli, cucumber and cabbage. It was observed that few priming technique improved seedling emergence percent, seedling vigor as well as agronomic traits including yield of the crop species although varying among species. It is clearly observed that in all the crops studied the priming techniques improved growth and yield of all the crops although the cultivars showed variation in responses to different treatments. In almost all the cases seedling vigor improves and the agronomic traits.

Effect of phosphorus and sulphur on growth and yield of soybean (Glycine max L.).

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University Farm, Dhaka, Bangladesh from December 2008 to April 2009 to evaluate the effect of P (viz. 0, 15, 30, 50 kg P2O5 ha−1) and S (viz. 0, 10, 20, 40 kg S ha−1) and their interaction on the growth and yield of soybean (Glycine max L.). Individual application of different levels of phosphorus and sulphur showed significant effect on yield and yield attributes studied. Among them, plant height, number of primary branch plant−1, number of leaves plant−1, stover yield increased significantly up to 50 kg P ha−1. On the other hand, numbers of pods plant−1, number of seeds plant−1, thousand seed weight, grain yield, biological yield increased significantly up to 30 kg P ha−1. However, in case of S, the positve response was observed only upto 20 kg S ha−1. The combined application of phosphorus @ 30 kg P ha−1 and sulphur @ 20 kg S ha−1 gave rise to the highest number of pods plant−1 (30.07), number of seeds plant−1 (84.94), thousand seed weight (94.61 g), and in turn produced highest grain yield (2.29 t ha−1). Thus, the combined application of 30 kg Phosphorus ha−1 and 20 kg Sulphur ha−1 may be considered to be optimum for getting higher yield of soybean.

Evaluation of Onion (Allium cepa L.) Genotypes for Tolerance to Thrips (Thrips tabaci L.) and Purple Blotch [Alternaria porri (Ellis) Ciferri]

Abstract: The study was conducted in onion to identify the advanced lines or varieties tolerant to onion thrips and/or purple blotch disease with high yield potential. Twenty one varieties and advanced lines along with five national checks were evaluated during rabi, 2009–10 against onion thrips and purple blotch disease at Sambalpur, Odisha, India under AINRP on Onion and Garlic by adopting RBD with three replications. The data on thrips infestation were transformed and subjected to statistical analysis. The results indicated that NRCRO-3, NRCWO-3, NRCWO-4 and VG-19 showed tolerance to both thrips (25.91 to 28.28 thrips plant−1) as well as purple blotch (PDI of 42.83 to 51.66%). The cultivars, Bhima Super, NRCWO-3, NRCRO-4 and the control, Arka Niketan produced significantly high total bulb yield (325.41 to 376.00 q ha−1) having better tolerance to thrips (25.91 to 32.42 thrips plant−1) and Purple Blotch (42.83 to 56.50%). The cultivar with high yield potential having tolerance to both onion thrips and purple blotch disease identified for Odisha condition are Bhima Super, NRCRO-4, NRCWO-3 of DOGR, Pune and Arka Niketan of IIHR, Bangalore.

Effect of Seed Priming on Seedling Vigour and Yield of Tomato and Chilli

Abstract: Seed priming increases seedling vigour of several vegetable crops. Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentunm L.) and chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) were tested for seed priming at seedling stage (4 tomato and 3 chilli varieties) under lab and vegetative and reproductive sate at field conditions (2 tomato and 2 chilli varieties). The priming techniques improved seedling vigour, growth and yield of tomato and chilli although varieties showed variation in response to different treatments. Especially halopriming increased speed of emergence, seedling vigour index, root length and shoot length over hydropriming in tomato and chilli. At field level halo priming showed better performance than control and hydropriming. Halo priming caused early flowering in tomato (8149, 8152) and chilli (9357). Increased plant height is also noticed in halopriming with respect to tomato and chilli (8149, 8152, 9357 and 9366). Mostly importantly halopriming increased total yield 20 plants−1 in tomato and chilli. This is the first observation in the aspect of increased yield under field condition with respect to seed priming in vegetable crops.

Effect of Heavy Metals on Different Anatomical Structures of Bruguiera sexangula

Abstract: The mangrove ecosystem is claimed to be the most productive ecosystem in the world when gross primary productivity and litter production is considered. In the study, an attempt has been made to generate information on the effect of three identified heavy metals viz., Hg, Pb and Cd, commonly found in the estuarine ecosystem, on Bruguiera sexangula by observing some important anatomical characters and heavy metal accumulation potentiality during their growth and development at ex situ. There was an increased tendency of hyper-accumulation of heavy metals with increased concentrations and time and the maximum accumulation was observed in the root area followed by stem and leaf. These findings suggest that the root acts as a barrier for metal translocation and protects the sensitive parts of the plants. The mode of heavy metal accumulation was observed to be in the order of Cd>Pb>Hg. From the anatomical study of root and stem, it was observed that the heavy metals at highest concentrations percolated into the hypodermal and stelar region. The stem anatomy of Bruguiera at 100 days after sowing (DAS) indicated deformed vascular bundle at treatment 1 and 4 of Hg. Xylem and phloem deformation was also recorded in treatment 1 and 4 of Cd which finally led to visible toxicity. Such detailed study indicated that the mangrove species Bruguiera can tolerate and accumulate the aforesaid three heavy metals (Hg, Pb and Cd) even at much higher concentrations. Hence, Bruguiera can be designated as hyper-accumulator. It may, therefore, be inferred that it could be effectively used for phyto-remediation purpose.

Effect of Neem ( Azadirachta indica) and other Plant Extracts on Yellow Mite of Jute

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of neem and some other plant extracts against yellow mite of jute, Polyphagotarsonemus latus (Banks), at the Jute Agriculture Experimental Station (JAES), Manikgonj, Bangladesh during the period from April to August, 2008. Green and dry neem leaf, neem oil, turmeric powder, garlic, mahagoni seed and green allamonda leaf were tested against the pest. Among the different plant materials, neem oil showed the best performance and reduced 64.37%, 84.75% and 93.47% yellow mite population over control after 24, 48 and 72 hours of spraying respectively. The percent plant infestation was also found lowest in neem oil treatment. The treatment had the lowest percent of leaf infestation 4.99%, 3.80% and 0.53% and also the highest reduction of no of nodes per plant 44.39%, 52.4% and 43.85% over control at early, mid and late stages of jute plant respectively. Neem oil increased 24.64% plant height, 27.87% base diameter over control and gave the highest amount of fibre yield (2.68 t ha−1). Green and dry neem leaf extracts, turmeric powder and garlic paste also significantly reduced the mite infestation but their efficacy was not satisfactory. Neem oil and mahagoni seed extract might be used for the control of yellow mite but it needs to explore the toxic compound of mahagoni seed.

Comparative Efficacy of Pyrazosulfuron Ethyl and Bentazon with Acetamides for Weed Control in Transplanted BoroRice (Oryza sativa L.) in the Lower Gangetic Plain Zone of West Bengal, India

Abstract: The efficacy of sulfonyl urea herbicide like pyrazosulfuron ethyl, benzothiadiazinone like bentazon alone and its combination with MCPA, clefoxydim and quinclorac were studied in comparison to traditional acetamides like butachlor and pretilachlor under field condition in transplanted boro rice. The dominating weed species in the experimental site were grasses like Echinochloa crusgalli, Paspalum distichum, sedges like Cyperus iria, Fimbristylis miliacea and broad leaved weeds like Ammania baccifera and Ludwigia parviflora. The herbicidal treatments were significantly superior to weedy check. There was 32.97% reduction in the grain yield of rice due to competition with weeds in the weedy plots. The pyrazosulfuron ethyl @ 30 g a.i. ha−1 applied as pre-emergence, with an weed control efficiency of 71.78%, was found to be the most effective in controlling predominant weeds, in comparison to acetamide and benzothiadiazinone herbicides. In terms of profitability, application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl @ 20 g a.i. ha−1 gave the highest gross and net return than other weed control treatments.

Biocontrol of Rhizome Rot Disease of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.)

Abstract: The efficacy of some biological control agents were tested for their antagonistic ability against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp zingiberi both in vitro and in vivo. Among the biological control agents assayed, Trichoderma viride (68.3%) and Trichoderma harzianum (66.7%) exhibited the maximum mycelial growth inhibition in dual culture under in vitro. Under field condition, seed treatment with T.viride @ 4g 10 ml−1 of water kg−1 of seed resulted in maximum reduction in plant mortality (4.2.%) with consequent increase in disease control (84.9%), plant stand over control (32.8.%), plant height (48.9 cm), number of tillers (18.0) and yield (10.5 kg plot−1), respectively.

Effect of Plastic Mulch Colour on Growth, Fruiting and Fruit Quality of Strawberry under Polyhouse Cultivation

Abstract: The field experiment was conducted during 2007–09 to study the effect of plastic mulch colour on growth, fruiting and fruit quality of strawberry under polyhouse cultivation. All three coloured plastic mulches (black, red and yellow) significantly increased the growth of strawberry plants as compared to control during both the years of study, but did not differ significantly among themselves with respect to plant growth. Red plastic mulch significantly extended the duration of flowering and fruiting and improved the fruit set as compared to control and black plastic mulch. Considerably higher yields, fruit size & weight and better fruit chemical composition (total soluble solids, total sugars, reducing sugars, ascorbic acid and anthocynin contents) were recorded in the plants mulched with red plastic as compared to black plastic mulch and no mulch (control). Though red plastic mulch was statistically at par with yellow plastic mulch with respect to all the parameters recorded during both the years of study but red plastic sheet was found to be most effective for increasing yield and improving fruit quality of strawberry under polyhouse cultivation.

Growth and Instability Analysis of Vegetables in West Bengal, India

Abstract: The present study is related to the growth and instability of area, production and productivity of vegetables in west Bengal. The study is based on secondary data of vegetables pertaining to various vegetables as a whole for the period of 1997–98 to 2010–11. It has been observed that the growth of area, production and productivity for all vegetables registered are positive and statistically significant and instability index for all the vegetables are also positive, which indicate that there is less risk for cultivation in the state. Compound growth rate in case of productivity for cabbage and cauliflower has been noticed negative but significant. The increase in production is due to increase in area as well as interaction of area and productivity of vegetables in the state.

Responses of Wheat Genotypes to Salt Stress in Relation to Germination and Seedling Growth

Abstract: To evaluate germination characters and seedling growth of wheat as screening criteria against salt stress, twenty wheat genotypes were tested at crop physiology and ecology Laboratory, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University (HSTU), Dinajpur during October to November 2010. Speed of germination as expressed by rate of germination, co-efficient of germination and germination vigor index of all wheat genotypes was delayed due to salinization compared to control but the degree of reduction in all the three parameters from control to 12 dS m−1 salinity level was not similar for all wheat genotypes. Shoot length and root length of 10 days old seedlings were found to be affected due to salinization and the increment in root to shoot length ratio at saline condition indicated shoot was more affected than root in saline condition. The magnitude of variation in all the four parameters from control to 12 dSm−1 salinity level was not similar for all wheat genotypes. Salt tolerance index (STI) based on seedling dry weight (10 days old) indicated a wide difference in salt tolerance among the wheat genotypes. Shatabdi, BAW 1135 and Bijoy showed more than 0.6 STI value, the wheat genotypes BARI Gom 26, BAW 1122 and BAW 1148 provided less than 0.4 STI value and the other wheat genotypes (Prodip, BARI Gom 25, BAW 1111, BAW 1118, BAW 1130, BAW 1138, BAW 1140, BAW 1142, BAW 1143, BAW 1146, BAW 1147, BAW 1150, Sonora and BAW1153) showed 0.4 to 0.6 STI value.

Population Dynamics of Whitefly on Cultivated Crops and its Management

Abstract: Three experiments were carried out at the farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University during the period from February 2011 to May 2012 to know the population dynamics of whitefly on bush bean, okra and soybean, and to develop its management practices. Insecticides used for bush bean were bamper (imidacloprid) 20 SL, shobicron 425 EC, actara (thiamethoxam), chlorpyriphos 20 EC, sinothrin (cypermethrin) 10 EC, fortap (cartap) 50 SP; for okra, ripcord (cypermethrin), 5% tamarind fruit extract, 10% neem leaf extract, 10% bullock's heart leaf extract, 10% dodder extract, 10% oleander leaf extract, 10%, dhutra leaf extract and 10% dholkolmi leaf extract; for soybean, marshal (carbosulfan) 20 EC, semcap (fenthoate), dursban (chlorpyriphos) 20 EC, basathrin (cypermethrin) 10 EC, fiter (λ-cyhalothrin) 2.5 EC, Shobicron 425 EC, Actara (Thiamethoxam) 25 WG. All three experiments were set in randomized complete block design (RCBD) and treatments were applied at 10 days interval. The population of whitefly was gradually increased with environmental temperature and humidity up to certain age of the cultivated crops then declined with increasing age of the crops. It was lower in okra than bush bean and soybean due to rainfall during the rainy season. All the chemical insecticides reduced the population of whitefly in bush bean and soybean, and increased their yields. In bush bean, imidacloprid showed the best performance by reducing 64.13% population of whitefly and increasing 66.00% yield of fresh fruits. The lowest population of whitefly (4.8 plant−1) and the highest fruit yield (4.92 t ha−1) were obtained by application of dhutra leaf extract on okra. Oleander leaf extract also gave the similar results against whitefly attacking okra and showed better performance than cypermethrin 10 EC in reducing whitefly population and increasing fruit yield.

Performance of Different Standard Carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) Cultivars in the Plains of West Bengal, India

Abstract: The suitability to ten standard carnation cultivars (Dark Red, Yellow with Red, Bright Red, Pink, C. Rimo, Decio, Orange Isac, Lilac Tarres, Tashman Pink and Orange Triumph) in the plains of West Bengal was studied in this experiment. Results revealed that the longest plant producing cultivar was Dark Red (78.36 cm) and the shortest plant producing cultivar was Decio (51.96 cm). Highest leaf producing cultivar was Bright Red (28.96 leaves shoot−1). Cv. Pink produced lowest number of leaves shoot−1 (20.59). Cv. Yellow with Red was identified the longest leaf producer (12.31 cm) and cv. Orange Triumph was identified the shortest (9.18 cm). Widest leaves (0.79 cm) produced by Orange Isac and narrowest leaves were the character of cv. Pink. (0.50 cm). Decio produced the highest number of side-shoots (2.61) and Pink and Orange Isac produced the lowest number of side-shoots (1.08) plant−1. Earliest Flower Bud Initiation (FBI) was recorded with Lilac Tarres (69.66 days) and Orange Isac reached the FBI stage last of all (104.68 days). Bright Red recorded the lowest time period for flower bud development (18.94 days) and Orange Isac recorded the highest time period (24.98 days). In-situ longevity of flowers was found highest with Bright Red (11.78 days) and lowest with Orange Triumph (9.17 days). Bud length and bud diameter though non-significant was found highest with Tashman Pink (3.81 cm) and Lilac Tarres (1.88 cm) respectively. Longest stalks recorded with Dark Red (71.62 cm) and shortest with C. Rimo (49.70 cm). Bright Red was found to produce flowers of highest diameter (7.21 cm) and Tashman Pink was found the lowest flower diameter producing variety (5.85 cm). Variety Dark Red produced highest number of flowers plant−1 (4.54) and Bright Red produced lowest number of flowers plant−1 (2.65). The post-harvest longevity of cut flowers was found maximum with Dark Red (6.27 days) and minimum with Orange Triumph (4.97 days).

Proportional Substitution of Chemical Fertilizers with Vermicompost on Growth and Production Potential of Onion ( Allium cepa L.)

Abstract: An experiment was conducted at Horticulture Experiment and Demonstration Plot of Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan West Bengal, India during winter 2009–2010 to study the response of vermicompost (VC) and/or fertilizer NPK in various proportion on growth and yield of onion (Allium cepa L.). Significant variations were observed for different plant height, number of leaves, leaf girth, neck length and diameter, bulb polar and equatorial diameter, whole plant weight, average bulb weight and estimate yield per hectare. Application of 50% VC+50% NPK recorded maximum plant height, neck diameter, bulb polar and equatorial diameter, whole plant weight and average bulb weight. The same treatment also produced highest bulb yield (52.26 t ha−1). Application of organic inputs in combination with chemical fertilizer were found better option than application of organic manure or chemical fertilizer alone. Maximum (15.01) total soluble solid was registered for 100% VC treated plots. Proportional increase of VC application also increases the TSS value. Proportional increase of VC in the given plant nutrient also increase TSS value.

Efficacy of Chemical Insecticides and Neem Oil Against White Fly (Bemisia tabaci Genn.) Infesting ladysfinger (Abelmoschus esculentus L.)

Abstract: Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is susceptible to various pests of which white fly (Bemisia tabaci Genn.) causes heavy damage. The field study evaluated the efficacy of nine new insecticides including one phytopesticide neem oil (Azadiracta indica) against this pest during the post-kharif season of 2004 and 2005. Significant differences were found in the efficacy of different treatments in reducing white fly populations. All the insecticides gave a satisfactory control, recording more than 60% mortality. λ-cyhalothrin (Karatzeon) was found most effective insecticide closely followed by a mixed formulation of chloropyriphos and cypermethrin (Nurelle). Arapid degradation of persistency was observed in imidachloprid closely followed by neem oil than other insecticides tested. Satisfactory control (>60% population suppression) was achieved with imidacloprid and neem oil. Imidachloprid, having lower persistency is suitable for white fly control. Neem oil of biological origin (bio-pesticides) have less or no hazardous effects on human health and the environment, therefore, it can be incorporated in IPM programmes and organic farming in vegetable cultivation.

Quality and Economics of Summer Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) as Influenced by Irrigation and Nutrient Levels

Abstract: A field study aimed to evolve efficient and economically viable irrigation schedule and nutrient management for improving quality and economics of summer sesame var. AKT 101 was conducted on clay-loam soil during summer season of 2010. Irrigation applied at 1.0 IW/CPE resulted in higher oil yield ha−1 whereas, irrigation at 0.8 IW/CPE gave maximum returns with B:C ratio. Among the nutrient levels, each successive dose from 50 to 150% RDF increased oil yield as well as net returns with B:C ratio. However, irrigation and nutrient had no significant effect on oil%. Both oil% and oil yield ha−1 was significantly increased up to 40 kg S ha−1 over 20 kg S ha−1. However, 20 kg S ha−1 fetched highest net returns as well as B:C ratio than 40 kg S ha−1. Combination of 0.8 IW/CPE and 150% RDF gave maximum oil yield and net returns but found at par with 1.0 IW/CPE and 150% RDF treatment combination.

Mangroves- a Potential Phyto-Remediator and Useful Bio-Indicator against Heavy Metal Toxicity

Abstract: Mangroves, the tropical and sub-tropical estuarine eco-system is now under severe threat, of which environmental pollution plays an important role in decreasing the species diversity. The present investigation was undertaken to generate information on the effect of some heavy metals (Hg, Pb, and Cd) on two dominant mangroves of sunderban viz., Bruguiera sexangula and Ceriops decandra. In both the mangrove species, roots accumulated more heavy metals than stem and leaf linearly correlated with the reduction in growth parameters and the mode of heavy metal accumulation was in the order of Cd>Pb>Hg. Potentiality of Bruguiera sexangula and Ceriops decandra to grow, establish and thrive within the polluted environment could be effectively used for phyto-remediation, however Bruguiera was found to be more suited. The visible toxicity symptoms i.e. browning of shoot tip in case of Hg, yellowing of leaves for Pb, chlorosis for Cd etc could be efficiently used as bio-marker or bio-monitor or bio indicator in the heavy metal polluted environment. Activity assessment of the most important stress enzyme peroxidase (POD) clearly indicated that a linear relationship between POD activity and leaf tissue metal concentration was found upto concentration 3 (2 times more than the permissible limit) level of all the three heavy metals at 100 DAS for both the mangrove species, but at concentration 4 (4 times more than the permissible limit) a sudden decrease in activity was noticed, which is surprisingly associated with the visible toxicity symptoms.

Role of Induced Mutations for Enhancing Nutrition Quality and Production of Food

Abstract: Crop plants form the major components of human diets, providing the required calories and nutrients to sustain life. World is facing a food and energy crisis of unprecedented proportions. Food production, to meet the needs of the growing world population, can be augmented by improving agronomic techniques and by growing genetically improved cultivars of a wide range of crops. Induced mutations are a proven tool in creating a wealth of desirable genetic variability in plants and can be a catalyst in developing improved crop varieties with nutrition quality, and higher yield. The commercial utilization of approximately 3,000 mutants strongly shows that mutation breeding is a useful tool for generating new germplasm for crop improvement. Induced mutations will continue to have an increasing role in creating crop varieties with traits such as modified oil, protein and starch quality, to the enhancement of phytonutrients in fruits and reduction of anti-nutrients in staple foods.

Collection of Chilli Genetic Resources from different Geographical Regions of West Bengal, India

Abstract: West Bengal, India is immensely rich in plant biodiversity. The present study was undertaken for an exploration and collection mission for wild, semi-wild, and domesticated populations of Chilli germplasm collection was carried out from 2009 to 2012, a total eighty-eight accessions in 17 district of WB on the basis of their shape, size and color along with pungency which are always the selected characteristics feature of chilli. This collection was expanding the number of accessions of wild chilli that are publicly available for research in plant improvement, characterization, evaluation and for subsequent use in an inquiry into the domestication. The diversity could mainly be attributed to diverse agro climatic conditions in WB. The intraregional diversity could be as a valuable source as interregional diversity for chilli improvement. With the establishment of Seed Genebank we stored natural orthodox seeds in low temperature (4–6°C) and low humidity condition.

A Technique to Measure the Loss in Tea Crop by the Defoliating Pest ( Hyposidra talaca Walker) on the Basis of Dry Mass and Leaf Area Parameters

Abstract: Tea (Camellia sinensis) is known as the queen of all beverages. India is the second largest producer of tea in the world, but the crop is largely damaged by the defoliating pest, Hyposidra talaca Walker (Geometridae: Lepidoptera) in the Darjeeling foothills and plains. A study conducted under laboratory conditions on its biology and food consumption shows that 4th and 5th instars of this looper caterpillar are the most destructive as they feed both on young (pluckable) and maintenance tea leaves. On an average, 25.1±1.9 (%) of 4th instar and 19.7±2.6 (%) of 5th instar caterpillars will survive from the eggs laid by a single moth. A 4th instar looper caterpillar can eat 3.55±0.31 (cm2) of the leaf area and 0.021±0.002 (g) of weight of tea leaves in terms of dry mass in 24 hrs. Whereas, a 5th instar caterpillar can eat 16.19±1.21 (cm2) the leaf area and 0.084±0.007 (g) of weight of tea leaves in terms of dry mass in 24 hrs. A female moth of looper (H. talaca), collected from the tea plantations, lays on an average of 500 eggs. Therefore, it may be interpreted that the surviving individuals of 4th and 5th instars will cause an overall loss of 12,690.33 cm2 of the leaf area (both pluck-able and maintenance leaves) therefore losing a part of photosynthate content of both pluckable leaf and maintenance leaf and a loss of 66.67 g dry mass of the leaves. Besides direct loss from feeding, excess defoliation may cause a loss of the photosynthesizing leaf-area; hence reduce the bush growth and its productivity in long term.

Effect of Abiotic Salinity Stress on Haemolymph Metabolic Profiles in Cultured Tiger Shrimp Penaeus monodon

Abstract: Salinity is one of the most important abiotic stresses in aquaculture. Optimal salinity for growth and production efficiency is often species-specific. The objective of the present study is to find the variations in the metabolic profiles due to salinity stress in cultured tiger shrimp Penaeus monodon. Shrimp haemolymph samples were collected from culture ponds with wide range of water salinities (3, 8, 13, 17, 23, 30, 36 and 50 ppt (parts per thousand)). The free amino acid profiles of haemolymph were analysed by using LC 10A Shimadzu HPLC system. The experimental results indicated that glycine, proline, arginine taurine and alanine are the pre-dominant organic osmolytes in haemolymph across all the salinities. The concentration of non essential amino acid, glycine significantly (p<0.05) increased (72.99±2.99 to 162.07±14.31 nmoles ml−1) with increase of salinity from 3 to 30 ppt and its level decreased thereafter. The peak concentration of essential amino acid, arginine (61.79±6.94 nmoles ml−1) level was observed at 23 ppt. Significantly (p<0.05) higher concentration (μ moles ml−1) of haemolymph ammonia (0.18±0.03 at 3 ppt; 0.46±0.07 at 50 ppt) and urea (0.22±0.03 at 3 ppt; 1.59±0.19 at 50 ppt) were observed in higher salinity. In hyper osmotic environments, the shrimp activates the urea cycle to produce a less toxic, osmolyte, urea to maintain high osmolality in the haemolymph and this is reflected in lower free amino acid level at high osmotic stress condition.

Genetic Variability, Trait Association and Path Analysis of Yield and Yield Components in Vigna radiata L.

Abstract: Genetic variability and heritability of different characters were studied using 32 genotypes including two standard checks in green gram (Vigna radiata L.). The genotypes showed wide range of variation for all the characters. A high coefficient of variation was observed for seed yield plot−1 and number of pods plant−1. High values of heritability coupled with high genetic advance as percentage of mean was observed for seed yield plot−1 and this character can be improved by selection. The days to maturity, number of clusters plant−1 was significantly and positively correlated with yield. Number of clusters plant−1 exerted maximum direct effect on seed yield followed by number of pods cluster−1, pod length and number of seeds pod−1 had positive direct effect on seed yield.

Growth, Productivity and Economics of Hybrid Rice as Influenced by Fertility Level and Plant Density

Abstract: A field experiment conducted during kharif 2010 and 2011 at the Institute of Agriculture, Visva Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal, India showed that application of 125 kg N, 62.5 kg P2O5 and 62.5 kg K2O ha−1 (F3) improved the growth attributes (plant height, number of tillers m−2, leaf area index (LAI), dry matter accumulation, and crop growth rate) and increased yield components (number of panicles m−2, panicle length, number of spikelets panicle−1, number of grains panicle−1 and test weight) that led to high crop productivity of hybrid rice. Increase in plant density increased the plant height, tillers m−2, LAI, dry matter production and CGR. Panicles m−2 increased with increasing plant density; but all other yield components like panicle length, spikelets panicle−1, grains panicle−1 and test weight decreased with increasing plant density. Both grain and straw yield increased by increasing plant density. Crop at medium plant density (33 hills m−2) with 125 kg N, 62.5 kg P2O5 and 62.5 kg K2O ha−1 (F3P2) produced the highest grain yield (7039 kg ha−1) and paid the highest gross (` 87970 ha−1) and net returns (` 59695 ha−1). Higher growth attributes and greater yield components of hybrid rice at F3P2 combination led to high grain productivity (7039 kg ha−1). The study advocates growing of hybrid rice at a plant density of 33 hills m−2 (20×15 cm2 spacing) with 125 kg N, 62.5 kg P2O5 and 62.5 kg K2O ha−1 (F3P2) for its high productivity and profitability.

Herbal Treatment in Animal Reproduction

Abstract: India has rich biodiversity of medicinal plants and traditional knowledge on herbal medicines to treat the animals and human beings. Reproduction disorders affect the production potential of the animals. Treatment of post partum disorders and infertility is a great task in animal reproduction especially in cattle. We are using the synthetic chemical drugs/medicines/hormones to treat the reproductive disorders but it causes public health hazard and severe side effects on the animal reproduction. But the herbal drugs fewer side effects and more benefits and less health hazards. This paper describes the herbal medicines/plants which are used in animal reproduction to cure reproductive disorders.

Spontaneous Erection and Masturbation in Mithun ( Bos frontalis) Bulls

Abstract: In domestic species, spontaneous erection and penile movements or manipulation occur in an awake state, the behaviour is commonly known as masturbation. Six mithun bulls were selected, of which, three from Mizoram and three from Manipur strain. These strains were observed over a period of 12 months. This behaviuor were observed from 1800 to 800 hrs and especially in winter and spring season. The parameters studied were duration of erection, frequency of movements of penis, time of sexual erection and masturbation. Seminal parameters such as volume, mass activity, progressive motility, live sperm, concentration, abnormality, acrosomal integrity and HOST were studied, which were collected by massage method. Other parameters such as success rate, protrusion time, length of penis and ejaculation time were also studied. The seminal parameters were showed that there was no significant difference between the affected and unaffected animal. But the unaffected animals were non-significantly higher in seminal parameter than affected animals.

Yield Performance of Different Species of Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus spp.) under the Agro-ecological Condition of Lateritic Zone of West Bengal, India

Abstract: Different species of Pleurotus, i.e. Pleurotus sajor-caju, Pleurotus flabellatus, Pleurotus florida,Pleurotus eous, Pleurotus ostreatus and Hypsizygus ulmarius [Synonyms:Pleurotus ulmarius (Fr.) P. Kumm] were evaluated under in-house conditions of lateritic zone of West Bengal during winter season of 2008. The newly introduced elm oyster mushroom Hypsizygus ulmarius was found to be most appropriate species in this region in terms of biological efficiency (156%), spawn run period (15 days) and average weight of sporophore (7.98 g), followed by Pleurotus florida (121.5%), Pleurotus sajor-caju (115.5%) and Pleurotus ostreatus (103.25%) biological efficiency. Pleurotus eous was found to be less suitable under this climatic condition.

Influence of Dates of Sowing and Nitrogen Levels on Growth and Yield of Kharif Maize under Irrigated Conditions in South Telanagana Agro-climatic Zone of Andhra Pradesh, India

Abstract: An Experiment was carried out during kharif 2009 and 2010 at Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, India. with four dates of sowing (7th July, 21st July, 6th and 22nd Aug in 2009 and 18th June, 02nd July, 17th July and 02nd Aug in 2010) as main plot and five nitrogen levels (N0: 0 kg ha −1(control), N1:100 kg ha −1, N2: 200 kg ha −1, N3:300 kg ha −1and N4: 400 kg ha −1) as sub-plot in split plot design replicated thrice. In 2009, 21-July sown crop recorded significantly higher plant height (185 cm), LAI (2.489), dry matter (103.7 g plant−1), grain (6809 kg ha−1) and stover yield (6590 kg ha−1), harvest index (47.9), net returns ( 30429 ha−1) and benefit cost ratio (2.08), and was on par with 7th July sown crop. On the other hand, in 2010, plant height (175 cm), LAI (2.464), dry matter (89.9 g plant−1), grain yield (6605 kg ha−1), stover yield (6537), harvest index (47.2), net returns ( 28770 ha−1) and benefit cost ratio (2.01) of 18th June sown crop was on par with 2nd July sown crop. Significantly higher growth, yield, (7778 kg ha−1, 7646 kg ha−1), HI (51.3, 51.7), net returns ( 38502 and 37469) and benefit cost ratio (2.37 and 2.39) was observed with 200 kg N ha−1 respectively during both the years of study. Sowing beyond 21st July in 2009 and 17th July in 2010 reduced the grain yield by 23% and 14% respectively.

Ffect of Sources and Levels of Sulphur on Growth, Yield and Bulb Quality in Onion (Allium cepa L.)

Abstract: Onion is one of the commercial vegetable crops of India. Sulphur has been recognised as an important nutrient for higher yield and quality of onion bulbs. Keeping this in view, a field experiment was conducted at AINRP on Onion and Garlic, College of Horticulture, OUAT during rabi, 2010–11 to study the effect of sources and levels of sulphur on growth, yield and bulb quality in onion. The treatment consists of two sources of sulphur and four levels of sulphur by adopting Factorial RBD with three replications. The results on vegetative growth (plant height, number of leavesplant−1 and neck thickness), yield attributing parameters (bulb weight, equatorial and polar diameter), total bulb yield, Physiological Losses of Weight (PLW) and Total Soluble Solid (TSS) revealed significant variations among the levels of sulphur in onion. However, no significant variations were recorded between the sources of sulphur in onion, except bulb weight. Gypsum recorded higher plant height, neck thickness, average bulb weight, polar diameter, total bulb yield and TSS than elemental sulphur. Gypsum as a source of sulphur also reduces the production of doubles and bolter along with better shelf life of onion by reducing PLW, rotting and sprouting. Among the levels of sulphur, irrespective of sources, sulphur @ 30 kg ha−1 recorded significantly higher plant height (54.51 cm), number of leavesplant−1 (14.80), polar diameter (5.17 cm), equatorial diameter (5.17 cm), average bulb weight (60.83 g), total bulb yield (211.23 q ha−1) and TSS (11.90%) than other levels. However, statistically parity was observed with application of sulphur @15 and 30 kg ha−1 for above mentioned parameters. Application of sulphur @ 30 kg ha−1 in form of gypsum may be recommended in onion crop for obtaining higher bulb yield having better keeping quality.

Bioresources for Productivity Enhancement in Kutki, Picrorhiza kurooa Royle ex Benth

Abstract: Picrorhiza kurroa is a highly valued high altitude medicinal plant used in both traditional as well as modern day’s system of medicines, the rootstock of which constitutes the drug. The plant figure among 37 identified top priority species for conservation and cultivation in Western Himalaya. Under present study, efforts have been made to enhance the productivity of Picrorhiza kurroa through application of different bioresources. Biofertilizers responded best when they were applied in combination with each other along with application of FYM or vermicompost. The study proved that the use of FYM or vermicompost either in combination with Azotobactor+PSB (B)+VAM or in combination with Azotobactor+PSB (F)+VAM was best for the optimum root yield. Root yield of as high as 400 kg ha−1 and 947 kg ha−1 was obtained for former while 392 and 939.20 kg ha−1 was observed for later for 2nd and 3rd year old plants respectively.

Epidemiology and Control Measures of Helminth Parasites in Small Ruminants

Abstract: Epidemiology of parasitic disease is very important for control as well as preventive measures in small ruminants. The precipitating factor of environment and host parasite plays a very important role for prevalence and occurrence of parasites in population. Hence, a systematic approach and judicious use of anthelmintic will not only help in substantial control of parasite in population but also increase productivity of animals. However, recent advancement of biological control and immunological control will be promising hope for reduce morbidity and mortality due to gastrointestinal parasites. The elucidation of parasitic antigen will be of great help in developing of successful vaccine in near future.