Showing papers in "Journal of entomology and zoology studies in 2019"

First report of the fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) on sugarcane and other crops from Maharashtra, India

Abstract: Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J E Smith) is an economically important pest native to tropical and subtropical America has recently invaded India, causing more damage to maize and sorghum. It is a notorious pestiferous pest with high dispersal ability, wide host range, high fecundity makes the fall armyworm one of the most severe economic pests. Recently in the month of September its feeding on two months old sugarcane crop, variety (Co 86032) was noticed at Ghogaon village of Sangli District (Maharashtra). Other than sugarcane, it was also reported on maize, sorghum and sweet corn in different districts of Maharashtra. Infestation on sugarcane was less than 5 per cent in Sangli, Kolhapur and Pune districts. On sweet corn (Bhasagi village of Akkalakot Tq) it was 35 per cent. The natural enemies like Campoletis chloridae and Noumuraea rileyi activity was meager. This is the first report of fall armyworm incidence on sugarcane and on other crops from Maharashtra. It is evident from the phylogenetic tree that sugarcane fall armyworm is indeed belongs to ‘corn’ strain.

Silkworm pupae meal as alternative source of protein in fish feed

Abstract: The ever-increasing cost of fish meal and other ingredients for fish feed has led to the search for other alternatives for protein source by the industry. Insects, form part of the natural fish diet and they represent a good source of protein. Over the last decade, studies on the replacement of fishmeal with insect meal have emerged with promising results. Silkworm pupae, a waste of the silk reeling industry, is a suitable candidate as a Fish Meal replacement because of its high nutritional value. Dry pupae contain 50–70% crude protein and 24–33% crude lipid, and is a high-quality insect protein source with a rich, balanced content of essential amino acids. The works of various researchers, on various fish species have led to the development of recommended inclusion levels of silkworm pupae meal in the diet of the following aquaculture species, 30-50% for major and minor carps, 5-15% for trout, 50-60% for masher, 75-100% for catfish, 30-40% for ornamental fishes and 5-20% for shellfishes that is assured to give better growth performance compared to fish meal.

Body condition scoring in goat: Impact and significance

Abstract: Body condition is a term used to signify the body reserves present in an individual animal An animal’s body condition indicates the amount of lipid (fat) and protein (muscle) reserves that are available for maintenance, reproduction and production Body Condition Scoring is an important tool for livestock managers or producers to optimize the production (meat and milk), feeding program, reproduction and welfare of the animals Scoring is based on determining the amount of muscle and fat over and around the vertebrae Scoring is performed in goats using a BCS ranging from 10 to 50, with 05 increments It is helpful to detect changes and sudden losses in condition which are difficult to observe from the external appearance of animal BCS is used for evaluating the current and past feeding program, judging the health status of individual animals BCS is a simple but useful procedure, which can help producers make management decisions regarding the quality and quantity of feed needed to optimize production and reproduction thus can play an important role in goat marketing

A review on status, resources, exploitation and management measures of marine catfish fisheries of India

Abstract: Marine catfish resources are distributed in the tropical Indo-Pacific region and form an important part of demersal fish catches along the entire coastline of India. Out of total catfish catches in India, 99% of the catches are dominated by species of the genus Tachysurus. Almost 70% of the catch originated from the west coast. State-wise, the biggest offers were from Kerala and Maharashtra and Karnataka. Among the eight maritime states of India aside from Andhra and Tamil Nadu, the general nature in the production of catfishes is of increasing trend. The fisheries are essentially exploited by automated trawl (33%) trailed by mechanized gill netters (21%), non-automated gear (14%), purse seine (11%) hooks and line (10%) and dol net (5%). Overfishing is a noteworthy issue in catfish fisheries, seems they are abused widely by trawlers and purse seiners. The trademark proliferation, shoaling nature, and relocation of numerous species of marine catfishes made them simple focus for over-exploitation. The management measures for future fishery enhancement can be achieved by either diminishing the fishing pressure or expanding the mesh size of the cod-end of the gear. The control or prohibition on bottom trawling operation will likewise lessen benthic fauna pulverization and the exploitable resources sustaining environment degradation. The status, resources, exploitation and management measures of marine catfish fisheries of India are discussed in this review.

A review on fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) and its possible management options in Nepal

Abstract: Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is an insect showing polyphagous nature, with more than 80 host species that causes severe damage to cereals and vegetable crops. On late 2016, occurrence of FAW was reported in West Africa for the first time and in was firstly collected and reported in Nepal at Nawal parasi district on 9th May 2019. Both migratory habit and a more localized dispersal habit are performed by the moths. They can migrate over 500 km (300 miles) before oviposition which can leads to greater spread and damage in short period. The insect cause heavy damage on corn and yield losses of 39% to over 70% has been recorded. Lack of access to market and chemicals helps farmers to adopt climate adopted push pull technology which could be considered as major option to control the FAW. Use of mechanical methods like hand picking, pheromone traps, light traps etc. could be the measures to monitor and control the pest for small scale farmers. Use of chemicals like Cholarantraniliprole, Sipnosad etc. can be used as a last resort option to control the FAW in case of Nepal.

Effect of light management in broiler production: A review

Abstract: In the last few decades, the broiler industry has grown very fast to meet the increasing demand for animal protein. But, the unidirectional selection of the poultry birds based on rapid growth, has resulted in the development of many undesirable traits. So, it has attracted the producers towards better managemental practices to remove the complications without hampering production. In this context, light management has emerged as a great tool in broiler production. It has been found that intensity, duration, colour and source of light affect the production. Traits like feed consumption, feed efficiency ratio, egg hatchability, carcass yield, disease prevention trait and different economical traits can also be controlled by proper light management. So, the objective of this review is to discuss the role of light parameters in broiler production so that problems can be mitigated and producers could be economically benefited.

Stem fly, Ophiomyia phaseoli (Tryon) (Insecta: Diptera: Agromyzidae) a major insect: a review

Abstract: The present study was conducted on Stem Fly or bean fly (Ophiomyia phaseoli Tryon. their biology, damage, identification and management with the objectives of arriving at the crucial conclusion on the most suitable techniques to decrease pest infestation for high potential yield and productivity with least damage to the environment and also need to develop a reliable technique that would help to positively identify resistant lines.

Haematological assessment of healthy Gir cattle on an established farm

Abstract: The normal haematological reference values were determined at various ages in both male (1 wk to 12 m) and female (1 wk to 36 m) and at different physiological stages (lactating and non-lactating) of Gir cattle maintained at the Cattle Breeding Farm, Junagadh Agricultural University, Junagadh, India. Blood was collected aseptically from all the animals and subjected to haematological analysis viz. Total Erythrocyte Count, Haemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume, Erythrocytic indices and Total Leukocyte Count. The values were statistically analysed and set as reference values. The reported haematological values could serve as baseline information for comparison and diagnosis of conditions at different ages, sex and physiological stages in Gir cattle in India.

Natural occurrence of nucleopolyhedrovirus infecting fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Gujarat, India

Abstract: Fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is a new invasive pest to India. It is a notorius pestiferous insect with high diseprsal ability, wide host range and high fecundity. The aim of this study is to identify the natural enemies of fall armyworm infesting maize. Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) infected S. frugiperda larvae were found during the survey. More number of NPV infected larvae were found and collected at location ‘Kanisa’ (22o23’2’’ N, 72o41’13’’ E), Anand district, Gujarat. The association of NPV with S. frugiperda was confirmed by phase contrast microscopy and pathogenicity studies. Further, the detailed bioassay and electron microscopic studies are under progress.

The incidence of aqueous neem leaves (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) extract and Metarhizium anisopliae Metch. on cowpea thrips (Megolurothips sjostedti Trybom) and yield in Ngaoundéré (Adamaoua-Cameroun)

Abstract: The ability of Azadirachta indica aqueous extract and the mycoinsecticide Metarhizium anisopliae interactions in controlling the cowpea thrips (Megolurothips sjostedti) was compared in the field grown Vigna unguiculata at Dang, Ngaoundere-Cameroon. The field trial was arranged in a completely randomized block design with five treatments, each of which was replicated four times. The five treatments included the control and the four tested insecticide products. V. unguiculata plants were sprayed three times at flowering stage with the insecticide products at five days interval. The parameters taken into account were adult thrips counts after three sprays, the number of cowpea plant ramifications, the number of dry pods, and the weight of dry grains at harvest. All the tested insecticides significantly reduced the M. sjostedti population, with the efficiency grade A. indica < M. anisopliae < A. indica + M. anisopliae < Decis®. Insecticides applications also increased V. unguiculata grain yields, with effectiveness similar to that of thrips populations, although Decis® and the combination A. indica + M. anisopliae had the same effect. There was a strong inverse linear correlation between grain yield and thrips population size (R = 0.96). M. anisopliae and A. indica induced more ramifications in V. unguiculata than Décis® and the combination A. indica + M. anisopliae. Our results suggest that the combination A. indica + M. anisopliae could be considered as a potential insecticide in the management of thrips in V. unguiculata fields. This would increase V. unguiculata grain yields, alleviate hunger and malnutrition as well, and reduce environmental impact of residual synthetic chemical insecticides such as

Notes on Steinernema abbasi (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae) strains and virulence tests against lepidopteran and coleopterans pests

Abstract: Three populations (DS4, DS6 and DS7) of entomopathogenic nematodes were isolated from the agricultural lands of district Meerut of western Uttar Pradesh, India. Morphological characters especially presence of horn like structures on labial region indicated that the strains were closely related to the “bicornutum” group’ of Steinernema spp. The nematodes were conspecific to Steinernema abbasi based on morphology, morphometric and molecular analysis. The morphology was similar to the type population with only difference being the presence of mucron in second generation male not observed in original population. The analysis of ITS rDNA sequences revealed that at positions, 211 and 407, T and A are present in studied strains while in the type species, AY230158 two unambiguous sequences Y and R are present at same locations. No difference was observed in D2-D3 domain of 28S rRNA. The Indian strains were also tested positively for its virulence against four major pests, namely, Galleria mellonella, Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura and Holotrichia serrata with good efficacy on the virulence except H. serrata. Strain DS7 was more pathogenic compared with other two strains with LD50 values of 7.28, 5.65 and 17.65 IJs, respectively against G. mellonella, H. armigera and S. litura.

Prevailing aquaculture practices in a drought-prone landscape: A case of Purulia district of West Bengal, India

Abstract: Historically Purulia district of West Bengal state in India is a water-poor landscape. In the present study, prevailing aquaculture practices in some drought-prone areas of Purulia district had been evaluated based on a multi-layered cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey. The findings of the study revealed that the majority of fish farmers belong to a low-income group (80.5%) and this is a male-dominated occupation (98.3%). Most of the aquaculture farmers have basic literacy (50.5%) and possess medium size family (60.82%). Majority farmers (44.2%) practice small-scale aquaculture having pond size less than 1 ha with single ownership mode. Farmers are practicing traditional extensive type farming (81.23%) and polyculture is prevalent. Aquaculture activity in Purulia district are dominated by Indian Major Carps (IMCs) in combination with other exotic varieties. Among the fish farmers of Purulia district, 75.32% do not use any kind of supplementary feed and perform multiple-stocking multiple-harvesting. Due to the non-adoption of scientific management practices, aquaculture productivity is very poor and the market chain is also not well equipped. Among the various problems, scarcity of water (78%), disease outbreaks (25%), poor quality of fish seeds (53%), lack of extension services and technical knowledge (65%), social issues like theft (39%) etc. are major issues. To cope up with these challenges, formulation of a local adaptation plan as well as strong technical, financial and extension services from government or non-government organizations and research institutions are required for sustainable development of aquaculture in Purulia district.

Report of an exotic invasive pest the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) on maize in Southern Rajasthan

Abstract: The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) is a polyphagous Lepidopteran pest recently invaded in India on maize, sorghum and sugarcane crop causes severe economic losses. This pest has been identified by morphological and DNA barcoding methods. The present study revealed that the percentage damage was between 10 to 40% in different hybrids, inbred lines of maize and sweet corn. FAW larvae found during the vegetative stage of the crop i.e. knee height stage and continues upto cob formation stage. Dark brown grown larvae having inverted ‘Y’ shape on the head with remarkable elevated distinct four dark coloured black spots (Pinacula) arranged in square on the abdominal segment in 8th segment whereas trapezoidal pattern on 9th abdominal segment. This pest has been reported for the first time on maize in Southern Rajasthan and the proper monitoring should be carried out in this region which will be useful to the farmers for the timely management of FAW.

Microbial amylases: An overview on recent advancement

Abstract: Amylase is an extracellular enzyme, which is involved in the starch processing industries where it breaks starch into simple sugar constituents. Two major classes of amylases namely α-amylase and glucoamylase have been identified in microorganisms. In addition, β-amylase which is of plant origin has also been reported from few microbial strains. These amylases are usually extracellular and are widely distributed in bacteria, actinomycetes and fungi. Amylases are of ubiquitous occurrence and holding maximum market share of enzyme sales. Compared to plant and animal origins, microbial α-amylase is the most popular source of industrial α-amylase. Microbial sources of α-amylases are cost effective and appropriate for industrial demands. These microbial amylases are now available commercially and they have almost completely replaced acid hydrolysis of starch in starch processing industry because of number of advantages such as specificity of the reaction, stability of the generated products, lower energy requirements and elimination of neutralization steps. Amylase has wide application in starch processing, baking, brewing, sugar production, textile industries and in detergent manufacturing processes. Interestingly, the first enzyme produced industrially was an amylase. This review focuses on the production, purification, characterization and immobilization of microbial amylase.

Investigations on population dynamics of diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella Linn. and natural enemies on cabbage, Brassica oleracea var. capitata Linn

Abstract: The study on population dynamics of diamondback moth larvae on cabbage variety, Golden Acre revealed the commencement of pest in 50th SMW and maximum larval population on 1st SMW. The larval population showed highly significant negative correlation with maximum, minimum and average temperature. Wind speed had significant positive correlation with the larval population. Coccinellid predators viz., Coccinella transversalis Fabricius and Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) were noticed in cabbage ecosystem. The initial occurrence of coccinellids were noted during 50th SMW and the population increased gradually in successive weekly counts and reached a peak in 3rd SMW. The minimum and average temperature and the evening relative humidity had significant negative effect on the population of coccinellid beetles. Wind speed had highly significant positive influence on coccinellid population. Regression studies revealed 76.90 and 80.70 per cent association of P. xylostella larval population and coccinellids with significant weather parameters, respectively.

Field evaluation of new insecticides against budworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) in flue cured Virginia tobacco

Abstract: Helicoverpa armigera Hubner (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) is one of the major pests of Virginia tobacco in India. As bud worm, it infests the crop during the grand growth stage and cause considerable yield loss. The studies were conducted with an objective to identify new molecules in place of the obsolete and ineffective insecticides for management of budworm. Chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.055%, cyantraniliprole 10 OD @ 0.018%, spinosad 480 SC @ 0.018%, flubendiamide 480 SC @ 0.012% and novaluron 10 EC @ 0.01% were evaluated for their field efficacy against bud worm, H. armigera on flue cured Virginia tobacco during 2015-17 seasons. The results indicated that among the various insecticides, spinosad, chlorantraniliprole and flubendiamide were most effective as they recorded lowest leaf damage and highest cured leaf yield. Studies on persistency of the new molecules on tobacco showed that the persistent toxicity of spinosad, chlorantraniliprole and flubendiamide was higher than that of cyantraniliprole and novaluron. Cyantraniliprole and novaluron were relatively less effective compared to others.

The effect of climate change on productivity and reproductive and health performance of livestock: A review

Abstract: Climatic change is the major threat at present time, globally. It affects a wide range of components which are related with health, work capacity, production, reproduction, and adaptability of the animals. Animal husbandry sector is mainly affected by high temperature and high humidity. The productivity, reproductive performance and health of livestock are adversely affected by climatic stress which results in significant economic losses. Moreover, heat stress affects animal’s reproductive performance and productivity of dairy animals. It has a direct effect on estrus behavior in dairy animals. Further, it produces reduced growth and reproduction, increased susceptibility to diseases, and ultimately delayed initiation of lactation in the livestock. Heat stress may affect the feed intake which reduces reproduction efficiency in hens, egg production and interruption of ovulation. Moreover, egg quality due to heat stress may also be negatively affected. Of late, practices like air cooled shades, sprinklers and proper ventilation will be suitable for adapting to future climates changes and minimize heat stress in dairy animals. During summer stress improved cooling and proper ventilation in animal houses are still the most profitable and effective method to improve both milk production and reproduction. Effective cooling system, housing and feeding management and other newer technologies are available through which climatic impacts on livestock can be diminished

Livestock waste management: A review

Abstract: Livestock Waste" means livestock excreta, bedding material, rain or other water, soil, hair, feathers or other debris normally included in animal waste handling operations. Improperly managed livestock wastes can lead to fecal contamination of waters receiving agricultural runoff. The danger to humans lies in the possibility of these fecal organisms entering water and food supplies. Groundwater and surface waters may harbour pathogens originating from animal fecal deposits. Animal waste contains many beneficial constituents that if recycled effectively, can be used as fertilizer for crops, fodder for animals and to produce energy. Composting is an accelerated bio-oxidation of organic matter passing through a thermophilic stage (45 to 65 oC) where microorganisms (mainly bacteria, fungi and actinomycetes) liberate heat, carbon dioxide and water. There are a number of methods of livestock waste management which are biogas production, rotatory drum composting, vermicomposting, biodynamic fertilizer etc. Biogas is clean environment friendly fuel that can be obtained by anaerobic digestion of animal residues and domestic and farm wastes, abundantly available in the countryside. Biogas is bacterial conversion of organic matter in to gases under anaerobic conditions. Average calorific value of biogas is 20MJ/m3 (4713kcal/m3). The earthworm eats the organic matter and excrete little pelleted material called “Vermicompost”. During vermicomposting, the important plant nutrients, such as N, P, K, and Ca present in the organic waste are released and converted into forms that are more soluble and available to the plants. Among all advance methods biogas production and vermicomposting are most common in India.

Specific mitochondrial ss-tRNAs in phylum Chaetognatha

Abstract: Chaetognaths are marine invertebrate organisms that constitute a small phylum of very abundant animals. Chaetognaths exhibit several morphological, physiological, anatomical and molecular peculiarities. In all known chaetognath mitochondrial (mt) genomes, the number of genes encoding tRNAs is always small. In addition, the primary sequences and secondary structures of chaetognath tRNAs are not conventional. Several metazoan mt-trn genes (encoding tRNAs) exhibit nucleotide triplets corresponding to stop codons (TAG/TAA) and/or start codons (ATG/ATA) at specific conserved positions. The products of genes that bear one or both types of these codons are known as ss-tRNAs (ss for stop/start). Indirect analyses strongly suggest that in chaetognath mt genomes, some of these start and stop codons could be functional. Moreover, taking these codons into account in the algorithms predicting tRNAs makes it possible to identify and correct several potential annotation errors. Furthermore, a type of ss-trn gene appears to have emerged by duplication in order Aphragmophora.

Non-significant intersexual differences in millipede mass

Abstract: Mass (g) in the diplopod class was available in fifteen species Apfelbeckia insculpta (L. Koch, 1867), Calostreptus sp., Cladethosoma clarum (Chamberlin, 1920), Centrobolus digrammus (Pocock, 1893), C. fulgidus (Lawrence, 1967), C. inscriptus (Attems, 1928), C. ruber (Attems, 1928), Doratogonus uncinatus (Attems, 1914), Glomeris marginata (Villers, 1789), Megaphyllum kievense (Lohmander, 1928), Nyssodesmus python (Peters, 1864), Odontopyge sp., Pachyiulus hungaricus (Karsch, 1881) and Spinotarsus sp. Values were presented for intersexual comparison (Table 1). Species ranged in size from Pachyiulus hungaricus males (0.031g) to Golmeris marginata (11g). Invariably males were lighter than females but non-statistical significant differences from populations were found for independent tests (t=0.02929; p=0.488353; n=23) and dependent tests (t=0.727822; p=0.23525; n=23).

When is the change in sperm precedence in the millipede Centrobolus inscriptus (Attems, 1928) (Diplopoda, Pachybolidae)?

Abstract: There were three scenarios of sperm precedence; first-male, last-male and no order effect. I replicated the H3+ radiolabel technique and showed sperm precedence patterns in the sexually dimorphic millipede Centrobolus inscriptus (Attems, 1928). Disintegration rates (D.P.M.) from single labelled mating were significantly lower than those of unlabelled-labelled mating (U=-2.6, n=13, p=0.005) but not to labelled-unlabelled double mating (U=0.45, n=14, p=0.65). In the initial experiment without the interval V2=43.66% and with the interval V2=74.59%. D.P.M. from the immediate dissections of twice mated females were higher (Z = 3.81, n = 12, 12, P = 0.0001) than females with a remating interval of up to 24 hours. When the experiment was replicated significant differences (H = 30.67, d.f. = 5, P = 0.00001) between total D.P.M values were again found. D.P.M. values were higher when second mating followed immediately after the first (V2= 21%). D.P.M. from labelled-unlabelled mating were significantly lower than the D.P.M. of unlabelled-labelled mating after 10 hours (600 minutes) resulting in a reduction of up to 57% in favour of the second male when second-male ejaculate volume precedence arises to 77%.

Prevalence of canine parvovirus infection in dogs in Jabalpur (M.P.)

Abstract: The study was conducted on 980 dogs suffering from vomiting and diarrhoea from August 2017 to January 2018. The dogs were screened by Scan vet Parvo kit for the diagnosis of canine parvovirus infection. Age, sex, breed and feeding habits of each dog were recorded to study the prevalence of canine parvovirus. The overall prevalence of canine parvovirus infection in dogs was reported as 7.24%. Dogs between 0-3 months of age showed the highest prevalence 11.9% followed by 3-6 months of age 7.09% and 6-12 months of age 5.31%. Whereas, the lowest prevalence of canine parvovirus was reported in the dogs above 12 months of age. The sex wise prevalence revealed higher prevalence in male (7.91%) as compared to female (6.36%). The maximum prevalence was noticed in non-descript dogs i.e. 12.57% followed by Great dane, German shepherd, Spitz, Dalmatian, Labrador, Doberman and Lhasa apso in which prevalence was found to be 10%, 6.12%, 5.26, 3.82%, 3.61%, 3.57% and 2.77% respectively. During the present study the dogs reared on vegetarian diet showed significantly higher prevalence i.e. 8.90% as compared to dogs reared on non-vegetarian diet i.e. 3.38%.

Development and characterization of fish crackers prepared from the bull’s eye (Priacanthus hamrur, Forsskal, 1775) fish meat and different starches

Abstract: The Bull’s eye fish (Priacanthus hamrur), which is present in large biomass in the South-East coast of India, is generally considered an underutilized fish species. An attempt was made to add value, by producing fish crackers. Fish crackers are foods which contain comminuted fish and are classified as “half products” and “intermediate products”. It is the most popular snack food in Southeast Asian countries. Most of the snacks available in the market are mainly based on cereals, which are high in calorie and low in protein content. For this reason, snacks like fish crackers with high protein content was thought to be developed for nutritional enrichment. Different starches flour like rice, sago and tapioca, as a functional ingredient, were used to prepare fish cracker at 50:50% ratio. The crackers (rice - C1, sago - C2 and tapioca C-3) were subjected to analyses for proximate as well as comparative physicochemical, microbiological and sensory evaluation so as to determine the nutritive value and its quality attributes for general acceptance. Dried cracker had a moisture content of 10 to 12%, protein content of 22 to 24% whereas, lipid content found low but it significantly increased after frying due to oil absorption. Nutritionally all the treatments were at par with each other. However, maximum linear expansion was observed in tapioca based fish crackers (83.03%). Water absorption index (WAI) decreased while water solubility index (WSI) increased for tapioca based fish cracker. Maximum lightness and lower redness as well as yellowness was noticed with sago based fish cracker after frying. Fish crackers incorporated with tapioca starch had a maximum score for the sensory aspect of crispiness (4.6), texture (4.4), odour (3.4) taste (3.8) and overall acceptability (4.4).

Accumulation of cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in tissues of Rohu fish (Labeo rohita) collected from the sewage-fed pond of Kolkata

Abstract: Sewage-fed aquaculture is a well-known method of fish cultivation. As the wastewater is generally contaminated with heavy metals and other pollutants; fishes and other aquatic organisms tend to accumulate them. It creates a serious health problem when these are consumed by a human being. The objective of our study was to assess the concentration of two potentially toxic metals namely cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb) in tissues of rohu fish (Labeo rohita) collected from the sewage-fed pond of Kolkata. Samples were collected fortnightly from January to June 2014 and the level of metals was determined by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. We observed that accumulation of Cd and Pd in fish tissue ranged from 0.002-0.013μg/g and 0.23-1.84μg/g respectively. Higher concentration was found in internal organs like liver, kidney and gill compared to muscle. It indicates that the conventional method of fish preparation in West Bengal by discarding the offal (i.e., liver, kidney, gills etc) should be followed everywhere. Though the concentration of metals was below the prescribed limit, people should be aware of the possible threats in the near future.

Quasi-experimental determination of a mass standard in the forest millipede Centrobolus inscriptus

Abstract: Sexual size dimorphism (SSD) in the diplopod species Centrobolus inscriptus has a positive correlation with body size. Intraspecific intersexual variation in mass was calculated twice in this species (males: 2.48 ± 0.57g; 2.00 ± 0.22g; females: 2.27 ± 0.28g; 2.61 ± 0.42g) and data sets tested for SSD. Males differed significantly from females in body mass (students t-test: t=9.38, d.f.=95, p<0.05). This was again found in the larger sample where males and females differed significantly from each other in mass (Wilcoxon matched pairs test: T= 554, n = 88, P = 0.00). When the two data sets were pooled and the mean’s compared, a difference was found (t=2.3162, n=273; p=0.020918). It was found males were lighter and have higher reproductive success through female preference for larger males when there was Size assortative mating behaviour. Conformity to the mass standard in sexual selection was suggested. Millipedes may influence concentrations of soil elements through sex‐specific difference.

Optimization of pheromone trap densities and impact of insecticides on pheromone catches for mass trapping Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in chickpea

Abstract: Chickpea pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera is an economically important insect pest. The trials were performed at four locations using with 10, 20, 30 and 40 sex pheromone funnel traps/acre during 2012-13 and 2013-14. The moth catches were higher in the locations with a trap density of 20/acre (12.93±4.05 and 13.82±5.0) and least percent pod infestation at such locations compared to other treatments. Peak activity of moths was recorded in the third standard meteorological week. Four insecticides, i.e., indoxacarb, chlorantraniliprole, novaluron and quinalphos were evaluated to determine their efficacy with pheromone traps. Among the treatments, fields treated with chlorantraniliprole and positioned 20 pheromone traps recorded least moth catches (0.15 to 0.25/trap) as well as percent pod infestation, followed by indoxacarb and novaluron. The present study observed that 20 traps/acre was the optimum trap density required to ensure maximum catches and integration of chlorantraniliprole+20 pheromone traps/acre proved considerably effective against H. armigera.

Status of invasive insect pests of India and their natural enemies

Abstract: Invasive insect pest are one of the major and most rapidly growing threats to agricultural biodiversity, forestry, human and animal health, etc. resulting in huge economic losses. Incidence of invasive insect pests such as Woolly apple aphid; Eriosoma lanigerum (Hausmann), San Jose scale; Quadraspidiotus perniciousus (Comstock), Lantana bug; Orthezia insignis Browne, Cottony cushion scale; Icerya purchasi Maskell, Potato tuber moth; Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller), Diamond back moth; Plutella xylostella (Linn.), Pine woolly aphid; Pineus pini (Macquart), Subabul psyllid; Heteropsylla cubana Crawford, Serpentine leaf miner; Liriomyza trifolii (Burgess), Coffee berry borer; Hypothenemus hampei (Ferrari), Spiraling whitefly; Aleurodicus disperses Russell, Silver leaf whitefly; Bemisia argentifolii Bellows, Blue gum chalcid; Leptocybe invasa Fisher & La Salle, Coconut eriophid mite; Aceria gurreronis Keifer, Papaya mealy bug; Paracoccus marginatus Williams & Granara de Willink, Cotton mealy bug; Phenococcus solenopsis Tinsley, Erythrina gall wasp; Quadrastichus erythrinae Kim, South American tomato leaf miner; Tuta absoluta Meyrick, Fall armyworm; Spodoperda frugiperda (J.E. Smith) has been noticed. The invasion of the pests in new areas sometimes lead to the outbreak of the pest due to lack of natural enemies. Therefore, exploration should be made in the areas of origin of the pests or efforts should be made to search some effective natural enemies in the invaded area so that the pest population could be curtailed with in Economic Threshold Level. These invasive insect pests can be minimized with the use of biological control agents or their natural enemies and quarantine set up need to be upgraded as this could result in the globalization of pests.

GC-MS analysis of the hexane extract of Limnophila indica (L.) Druce, its total phenolics, in-vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifeeding activity against Spilosoma obliqua

Abstract: The present study was carried out for analysis of hexane extract of Limnophila indica and evaluated for total phenolics, in-vitro antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antifeeding activity. The n-hexane extract was obtained by Soxhlet apparatus and analysed by GC-MS. GC-MS analysis leads to identification of thirty-eight compounds in extract comprising of 83.9% of total extract composition, containing aristolone (40.3%) as the major compound. Phytochemical analysis resulted in potentially significant total phenolics, total flavonoids and total ortho-dihydric phenol content. Antioxidant activity of extract assessment using NO, DPPH radical scavenging, metal chelating and reducing power activity resulted significant antioxidant activity presumably due to qualitative and quantitative difference of their antioxidative components. Also concentration dependent inhibition of protein (albumin) denaturation exhibited in assessment of in-vitro anti-inflammatory activity in the extract. Percent antifeeding analysis on Spilosoma obliqua results into higher range of inhibition of feeding action in a dose dependent manner and more prominent at higher concentrations (20 and 25 ppm).

Investigations on copper and phosphorus deficiency associated post-parturient hemoglobinuria in dairy animals and clinical management with antioxidants

Abstract: Post-parturient hemoglobinuria (PPH), is reported as one of the important metabolic condition in high yielding cattle and buffaloes cA total of 40 dairy animals which were affected with hemoglobinuria were selected from field cases. Clinical examination and color of urine before and after treatment in animals were used as evaluation criteria for recovery in affected dairy animals. In group A, sodium acid phosphate (Inj.Alphos-40TM) 200-250 and 120g of dicalcium phosphate were given i/v and orally b.i.d, respectively, for seven days. In group B, N-acetyl cysteine (Mucolator) was given IV @ 8 mg bid and vitamin C (Tab C-Cone 10g) were given intravenously and orally, respectively. The body temperature was subnormal to normal in post parturient hemoglobinuria affected animals in the present study. There were significant differences in TPR values in group A and Group B after treatment. Serum Ca level (7.41±0.99) increased with a significant difference after the treatment (11.0280±0.44081) in group A. In group B, a significant rise was found in mean serum P level before (2.90±0.73) and after (5.67±0.06) the treatment. Serum Ca level (5.6740±0.06142) increased with a significant difference after (9.84±0.17) the treatment in group B. Mean serum P level displayed significant difference (6.19±0.19) in group A and group B (5.67±0.06).Mean serum cu concentration in positive cases (0.584±0.114)μg/dl showed significant deficiency of the trace mineral in the study area. In group A, RBCs, platelet count, Hb and PCV showed a significant improvement (P˂0.05) after treatment. Similarly, a significant difference (P˂0.05) was found in hematological values after the treatment in group B. Hypophosphatemia and hypocupremia was a constant feature in all cases of hemoglobinuria in the present study. It is worth mentioning that both treatment protocols corrected hypophosphatemia adequately in PPH affected animals, but treatment with Sodium acid phosphate and DCP was successful in restoring serum phosphorus level and hematological values in haemoglobinuria cases followed by treatment with Mucolator combined with Tab. C-Cone.

Bio-efficacy, persistence and residual toxicity of different insecticides against jassids (Amrasca biguttula biguttula Ishida) on sunflower

Abstract: An investigation was undertaken to study the bio-efficacy, persistence and residual toxicity of different newer insecticides against jassid on sunflower at research farm of department of Agril. Entomology College of agriculture Latur. The observations on total number of jassids were recorded on top, middle and bottom leaves of five randomly selected plants from each treatment at one day before and 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after first and second application of insecticides. All insecticide treatments were found significantly superior over untreated control in minimizing the incidence of jassids. On 14 DAS, the population of jassids was ranged 4.20 to7.60 jassids/leaf and 3.40 to 6.80 jassids/leaf after first and second spray respectively. Imidacloprid 17.8 SL 0.003 per cent was exhibited most effective insecticide in minimizing the jassids population (4.20 and 3.40 jassids/leaf) followed by spinosad 0.007 per cent (5.40 and 4.60 jassids/leaf), indoxacarb 0.05 per cent (5.80 and 5.00 jassids/leaf), chlorantraniliprole 0.005 per cent (6.60 and 5.80 jassids/leaf) emamectin benzoate 0.002 per cent (7.20 and 6.40 jassids/leaf), fenpropathrin 0.01 per cent (7.40 and 6.60 jassids/leaf) and flubendiamide 0.007 per cent (7.60 and 6.80 jassids/leaf) after first and second spray, respectively. Among different insecticides, imidacloprid, spinosad and indoxacarb exhibited highest efficacy against sunflower jassids. The residual toxicity of seven label recommended insecticides viz., Imidacloprid 0.003 per cent, spinosad 0.007 per cent, indoxacarb 0.05 per cent, chlorantraniliprole 0.005 per cent, emamectin benzoate 0.002 per cent, fenpropathrin 0.01 per cent and flubendiamide 0.007 per cen was evaluated against jassids infesting sunflower. Imidacloprid 0.003 per cent revealed the highest persistent toxicity index (PT) value of (804.3 and 843.08) and LT50 values 5.75 and 5.91 days against jassids after first and second spray, respectively as compared to the other insecticides. Among all the treatments, highest incremental cost benefit ratio (1:17.66) was attained by imidacloprid 0.003 per cent.