Showing papers in "Journal of entomology and zoology studies in 2020"

Latitudinal-size trend in eight species of Centrobolus

Abstract: Bergmann's eco-geographical rule maintained within a taxonomic clade, populations and species of larger size were found in colder environments, and species of smaller size were found in warmer regions. It was tested in the millipede genus Centrobolus with reversed sexual size dimorphism (SSD). Two factors were measured from eight Centrobolus species, body lengths (mm) and widths (mm). Centrobolus male lengths were positively related to latitude (r=0.643, r2=0.4134, n=8, p=0.085467). The short species, C. digrammus occurred at the southern tips of South Africa (-34.19°S) while longer species, C. inscriptus and C. anulatus were found north (-28.98°S). In-between these two latitudes all the medium sized species ranged.

Problems of antibiotic resistance associated with oxytetracycline use in aquaculture: A review

Abstract: Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world which has led to the intensification of fish farming methods to meet the global demands of fish production. To prevent and treat diseases that occur in aquaculture, antibiotics are being widely applied especially in developing countries, to forestall bacterial infections resulting from sanitary shortcomings in fish rearing. Antibiotics are mixed with feed and feed ingredients and are fed to fish to enhance their growth and ultimately boost up production. Oxytetracycline (OTC) is a tetracycline broad-spectrum antibiotic being widely used in aquaculture as a therapeutic and prophylactic agent ever since it was first approved by USFDA for use in finfish aquaculture. The indiscriminate use of oxytetracycline has led to a lot of problems such as the emergence of antibiotic‐resistant bacteria in aquaculture environments which in turn transfer these resistance factors to bacteria of terrestrial animals and human pathogens. Moreover, it can also create problems for industrial health as antibiotic residues can get accumulated in fish meat and fish products. Residues of antibiotics also result in lowering the marketing and export value of aquaculture products. This review paper provides information on the rising problems of antibiotic resistance due to the indiscriminate use of oxytetracycline in aquaculture systems.

The potency of chemical insecticides in management of cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon Hufnagel (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera): A review

Abstract: The black cutworm, Agrotis ipsilon (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is ubiquitous in many countries around the globe. It is one of the most aggressive underground insect species which feeds on more than 100 host crops. The traditional control methods for this species were not considered promising. Therefore we can develop a good management framework by incorporation of chemical control for the reduction of this pest. Some pesticidal groups viz., synthetic pyrethroids, carbamates, organophosphates and neonicotinoids etc., were used primarily to protect crops from cutworms. However, in case of injudicious use, these chemicals may have a detrimental impact on human health and natural environment. In addition to this, frequent use of the same chemicals may cause insect resistance to particular insecticides. The effects of such compounds should be monitored to avoid the occurrence of harmful impacts of insecticides on the surroundings. Thus, this review discusses the efficacy, sub-lethal impact and corrects methods of applying different chemicals as an essential part of integrated management (IPM) of cutworm.

Socio-economic status and constrains confronted by goat and goat farmers in Saurashtra region

Abstract: A field investigation was carryout conducted to assess the constraints faced by the goat farmers in Saurashtra of Gujarat, India. A well designed questionnaire was administered to 120 goat farmers randomly selected from three major districts of Saurashtra include Rajkot, Junagadh and Jamnagar and one small costal district Porbandar. The aim of this study was to describe the economic, social and nutritional importance of goat farming in the Saurashtra region and to identify critical constraints and opportunities for use in future development initiatives. The present study showed that majority (95.83%) of heads of households were males, of which 44% were middle age (31-50) and 66% of theme were have animal husbandry as primary occupation. Most respondent have major constrain in feeding were lack of green fodder availability (75.83%) and reduction of grazing land (64.17%). In constrain of breeding major problems were repeat breeding (82.50%) and indiscriminate breeding (68.33%) while in health care main problem was abortion problem (86.67%) which may leads to high kid mortality (80.83%). Majority 91.67% of the goat farmers reported that less demand of goat milk and 89.17% said low price of milk was casing marketing problem. Hence, by developing good extension practices with awareness plan will leads to improvement of socio-economic status, which ultimately lead to small ruminant animal development.

Bio-efficiency of some insecticides against Brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis (Guen.)

Abstract: The studied data of shoot and fruit borer shows that, results were statistically superior over control in suppression of shoot damage caused by shoot borer. Lowest shoot infestation was recorded in treatment spinosad 0.01% (12.13%). The other effective treatments in minimizing the percentage damage of shoot borer were listed in descending order as emamectin benzoate 0.002% (15.05%) > cypermethrin 0.005% (17.19%) > imidacloprid 0.025% (21.95%) I > Metarrhizium anisopliae 1 lit/ha (23.16%) > B. Bassiana 1 lit/ha (24.88%) > Azadirachtin 2.5 ml ml/lit (24.88%) > mechanical shoot clipping (27.10%) respectively, these treatments were found superior over control (water spray) recording highest shoot infestation (36.60%) and for the fruit borer The next effective treatments in minimizing the percentage of fruit borer are listed in descending order as emamectin benzoate 0.002% (16.57%) > cypermethrin 0.005% (18.70%) > imidacloprid 0.025% (22.06%) > Metarrhizium anisopliae 1 lit/ha (23.91%) > B. Bassiana 1 lit/ha (%) (24.97%) > Azadirachtin 2.5 ml/lit (26.56%), > mechanical shoot clipping (29.48%) respectively, whereas in the treatment control (water spray) was recorded highest shoot infestation (37.15%).

Tasar for Tribes: A way of life

Abstract: In India most of the population lives in villages and has a vast diverse culture and tradition throughout the country. Even though India is pretty much developed in all aspects but still we see the tribes existing in many parts of the country. Tribes, usually leave in forest patches with enormous flora and fauna. There are places where tribes live and not aware of outside world, not aware of simple technology and there are tribes where they can’t even have single meal a day and situation goes pathetic. The forest areas where in tribes live has dense trees among which Arjun, Asan and sal plants do exist. These arjun, asan and sal plants generally called as tasar silkworm food or host plants. Hence, these plants can be utilized by tribes in growing or rearing tasar silkworms out of which huge cocoons can be harvested within a very short span, generating man days and money by selling the cocoons. Thus, the money from tasar can fetch bread and butter to tribes. Therefore, Tasar sericulture can be proved as the best profession for upliftment of tribes. The greatest advantage of tasar culture is that it does not require any investment and with simple methods sound cocoon crop can be harvested. Tasar can grow as an indispensable part of tribal culture and medium for the transformation weird wild to economy.

Detection of bovine rotavirus (BRV) infection in neonatal calves of in and around Navsari district of South Gujarat, India

Abstract: The present study reports the incidence of bovine rotavirus infection in bovine calves of in and around areas of Navsari district. 157 faecal samples comprising (122 diarrheic and 35 non diarrheic) from 104 cattle and 53 buffalo calves of < 45 days’ age were collected. All the samples were screened by LAT, ELISA and VP6 gene based RT-PCR and 17 (10.82%), 11 (7.0%) and 16 (10.19%) samples were found positive respectively. Diarrheic sample wise 13.11% incidence was recorded while all the non diarrheic samples were found negative. Species wise higher incidence was observed in cattle calves (10.58%) than buffalo calves (9.43%). Sex wise higher incidence was observed in female calves (10.61%) than male calves (6.81%). Age wise higher incidence was recorded in 0-15 days age group (11.58%) followed by 15-30 days age group (10.26%) and 30-45 days age group (4.35%).

Diversity of Yellow Sac Spiders (Cheiracanthiidae: Araneae: Arachnida) in India

Abstract: The present article deals with the distribution of one of the spider family Cheiracanthiidae (Araneae: Arachnida), commonly known as yellow sac spiders, in different Indian states and union territories and also provides an update checklist based on the literature published up to September 30, 2020. It includes total 37 species of yellow sac spiders described under only 2 genera in India. The records demonstrated that only four species of these spiders are widely distributed: Cheiracanthium danieli Tikader, 1975, Cheiracanthium indicum O. Pickard-Cambridge, 1874, Cheiracanthium melanostomum (Thorell, 1895) and Cheiracanthium triviale (Thorell, 1895). No yellow sac spider is reported from Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Haryana, Nagaland, Telangana and Ladakh yet. Species diversity is much more in Maharashtra and Gujarat (13 species each) followed by Tamil Nadu (10 species), West Bengal (9 species), Madhya Pradesh (7 species), Kerala (6 species), Uttarakhand (6 species) and less number of species in other areas. More than half (56.8%) species recorded in India are endemic. Despite their role as insect predators and being crucial to the health of terrestrial ecosystems, none of the species recorded in India is listed in IUCN Red List.

The emerging menace of fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda JE Smith) in maize: A call for attention and action

Abstract: The productivity of maize is quite greater than any other important cereal crops but it is still lower than its true yield potential, because of prevalence of many biotic and abiotic stresses. The fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J.E. Smith) having polyphagous nature is an emerging insect which plays a vital role in contributing to low productivity. This particular menace with more than eighty host species causes severe threat to food grains and vegetable crops. A new devastating invasive pest FAW is a major problem for crop production, especially in tropical environment due to its ability of rapid breeding, migration, and feeding habit on a wide variety of hosts. There are several control measures but integrated pest management is widely utilized for managing its infestations. Therefore, in this article, we have highlighted the current situation and control measures of FAW, which could be beneficial to improve its management in corn fields.

Evaluation of insecticidal activity of entomopathogenic bacteria Photorhabdus and Xenorhabdus against shoot and fruit borer Earias vittella (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) of vegetable crops

Abstract: The shoot and fruit borer, Earias vittella is one of the major polyphagous pest prefer various host plants attacking almost 38 plant species and causes yield loss of 15-45% in vegetable crops annually in India. In this study Entomopathogenic bacteria (EPB) were used for biocontrol larvae of Earias vittella under in vitro condition. Whole cell culture and cell supernatant of EPB was screened for insecticidal activity against the larvae and results has shown that the lethality of larvae started after 12-24h of treatment. The percent mortality treated with intact cell was significantly higher in larvae treated with EPB3 with 90% mortality at 72h followed by EPB1 and EPB3. The larvae treated with cell supernatant of EPB had shown lethality in the range of the mortality of larvae where in the range of 50-70% at 72h of treatment and there was no significant difference among the bacteria treated. The LD50 value represent the concentration of cells required for the 50% population to be lethal and EPB3 had expressed significantly lower concentration of 4.28x104 CFU / ml followed by EPB9 and EPB8. The LD50 value for the larvae treated with cell supernatant were in the range of 1010 to 1012 CFU / ml. The larvae treated with EPB3 cell culture has taken significantly less time for mortality of fifty percent of population with a media lethal time (LT50) of 24h followed by EPB1 (30h) and EPB8 (32h). Among all the isolates EPB3 (Xenorhabdus nematophila) and EPB1 (Photorhabdus luminescens) had more virulence against the Earias vittella and can be further tested for biocontrol efficiency under greenhouse and field conditions.

Bio efficacy of different pesticides against whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius) in tomato

Abstract: Whitefly, Bemisia tabaci is one of the major injurious sucking pests in Gujarat as well as in India. The field experiment based on bio-efficacy of different pesticides against whitefly, Bemisia tabaci in tomato cv. GT. 2 was conducted under field condition at Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat during Rabi 2014-15. Eight treatments including untreated control were imposed in Randomized Block Design with four replications. Lowest whitefly population (2.18 adults/leaf) was recorded in imidacloprid 17.8 SC @ 0.005% (2.8 ml/10 L of water) followed by 2.22 adults/leaf in dimethoate 30 EC @ 0.03% (10 ml/10 L of water) which were significantly at par with each other. Next in the order of effectiveness was azadirachtin 3000 ppm at 3 ml/litre of water (5.69 adult/leaf).

Diversity of Amycoida and Astioida (Arachnida: Araneae: Salticidae: Salticinae) in India

Abstract: A total of 56 species under 14 genera were recorded in most of the states and union territories of India except Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Chattisgarh, Sikkim, Meghalaya, Daman & Du and Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Lakshadweep. Out of them, 27 species are endemic. The Amycoida is represented by only 2 species of a single genus (tribe Sitticini), one from Ladakh (Attulus avocator) and one from Jammu & Kashmir (Attulus diductus). Maximum number of species of these spiders were recorded from Kerala (25 species) followed by Tamil Nadu (20 species), West Bengal (17 species), Maharashtra (14 species) and Gujarat (11 species). Extensive survey for these spiders is required in almost all states particularly in those where these jumping spiders are either not recorded or very poorly recorded. Despite the spiders are most diverse group of predators and being crucial to the health of terrestrial ecosystems, none of the species recorded in India is listed in IUCN Red List.

Assessment of the Anophelinae blood seeking bionomic and pyrethroids resistance of local malaria vectors in the forest region of Southern Cameroon

Abstract: To assess the anophelinae blood seeking bionomic and susceptibility status to pyrethroids of local malaria vectors in the forest region of southern-Cameroon, entomological surveillance, detection of Plasmodium infection and susceptibility to permethrin and deltamethrine was done using specific protocol. Of a total of 2,091 mosquitoes collected, 543 (25.97%) belong to anophelinae species. Malaria vectors collected included An. gambiaes. L., An. moucheti, An. marshallii, An. ziemanni, An. paludis, An. coustani and An. nili. Anopheline trapped using WET varied from 1.31 anophelines/trap in Nyabessan to 2.87 anophelines/trap in Olama. The densities of mosquitoes collected using CDC-LT were 3.08 (indoor) and 4.18 (outdoor) mosquitoes/trap/night in Olama whereas they were 13.44 (indoor) and 7.84 (outdoor) mosquitoes/trap/night in Nyabessan. Of the 392 anophelines screened using ELISA, 2 (0.51%) were recorded infected by Plasmodium falciparum. Several species including An. gambiaesl, An. moucheti and An. nili were found resistant or highly tolerant to permethrin and/or deltamethrin. CDC-LT and WET are not sensitive tools for monitoring mosquito populations in the forest region. The study also suggested increase tolerance of several local anopheline species to pyrethroids. These information need further consideration while designing vector control interventions in theses settings.

Pests, parasitoids, and predators: Can they degrade the sociality of a honeybee colony, and be assessed via acoustically monitored systems?

Abstract: Honey bees are one the world’s most important contributors to plant pollination. Their unexplained decline has become a matter of great concern. Potential factors destroying bee colonies include pathogens, pests, pesticides and environmental changes. The lethal effects of these factors have been extensively observed, but elucidating the mechanisms that may cause the collapse of an entire colony has been largely neglected. In this review, along with lethal effects we address the nonlethal effects of insect invaders (like insect pests, parasitoids and predators) and mites on social behavior of in-hive honeybee colonies. We also describe the acoustic emissions produced during confrontations with insect invaders. Then, we briefly describe multiple in-hive monitoring systems, and propose our own simple sound collection system which can prove as a useful tool to upgrade previously developed in-hive monitoring systems. Lastly, based on existing knowledge, we present hypothetical strategies towards maintaining normal hive social behavior to mitigate the effects instigated by colony collapse disorder (CCD).

Nano-pesticides in pest management

Abstract: Pesticides are the basis to defend against major biological disaster in agriculture and important to ensure national food security. Biocompatible, biodegradable and responsive material is currently an emerging area of interest in eco-friendly green pesticide formulations. Nanotechnology plays a vital role in designing and preparation of target-oriented and controlled release pesticides which act environmentally safe. This can be achieved through chemical modification and this new technology has great potential in creating novel formulations. In this review, special attention has been paid towards pesticides with precise controlled release modes and responds to micro ecological changes such as light sensitivity, thermo sensitivity, humidity sensitivity, soil, pH, and enzyme activity. Moreover, establishing intelligent and controlled pesticide release technologies using nanomaterials are reported. The technologies could increase pesticide loading, improve the dispersibility and stability of active ingredient, and promote target ability.

Functionality of protein-Based edible coating- review

Abstract: Consumer demand for convenience package and consumption, safe microbiologically, longer product shelf-life and effect of packaging material on environment is forcing food processor and researcher to develop new technique in food processing, cooking, handling, and packaging strategies. Most of ready-to- eat foods are exposed to post-process contamination, leading to spoilage and reduced shelf-life. Biopolymers extracted from biomass, synthesized from bio-derived monomers or produced directly by microorganisms with the advantages of biodegradability, process ability, no pollution to food, abundant and renewable have become the leading food packaging materials. Furthermore, the raw materials to produce biopolymers are low-cost, some coming even from by-product of agriculture and fish processing waste. Proteins-based edible films can be incorporated into foods to impart nutritive value and functional properties. The materials to develop protein-based coatings and packaging films can be divided into two classes: plant proteins and animal proteins. Proteins referred in this review are broadly classified under cereal, milk, oilseeds, collagen and gelatin based. Proteins-based edible coating has excellent gas barrier properties and good mechanical properties. However, the hydrophilicity nature of proteins makes the protein-based films poor water barrier properties. The application of plasticizers and treatments can improve the protein-based films and coatings. The addition of physical and chemical active compounds into protein-based films can increase the functional properties which can inhibit or delay the growth of microorganisms and the oxidation of lipids thereby increase its shelf-life. The review summarized the advances and research about the functional properties protein-based films and coatings in food packaging with examples.

Adoption of management practices by the farmers to control sub-clinical mastitis in dairy cattle

Abstract: The study was conducted on 80 farmers and 150 cows at surrounding villages of Nadia district, West Bengal to investigate the level of management practices adopted by the farmers for maintaining their cattle as well as to detect the incidence of sub clinical mastitis on the basis of their adopted management practices. Survey on the basis of questionnaire was done with the farmers. Simultaneously milk samples from the animal were taken to detect the incidence of sub clinical mastitis. Farmers as well as cows were divided into three groups on the basis of their management practices as, Group I, Group II and Group III which includes poor, fair and good management practices respectively. Each group comprises 50 animals. Comparisons were made between the groups and it was found that farmers adopted about 10% poor (group I), 45% fair (group II), whereas 25 % good (group III) management practices. Further, when milk sample was tested to detect the incidence of sub clinical mastitis, it was found that in Group I, all 50 cows (100%), Group II, 46 (92%) out of 50 cows and Group III, 1 (2%) out of 50 cows (might be due to individual immunity level or differences in adaptability to local climate) were observed positive for sub clinical mastitis. Hence, the result revealed that the incidence of sub clinical mastitis was higher in the poor and fair than good management practices, which signifies that exploration of knowledge to the farmers about good management practices for maintaining their cattle is still needed. Thus, dissemination of knowledge based on the study will help in the production of high quality, good, clean and safe milk, which will provide a major financial support to the farmers.

Effect of abiotic factors on the population dynamics of paddy earhead bug, Leptocorisa oratorius F

Abstract: The present investigation was carried out to monitor the population dynamics and their correlation with weather parameters The experiment result revealed that the population of bug appearance coincided with the flowering stage of the rice whereas the peak population (181 bugs/hill) was recorded only one week after its 1st appearance and then after the decrease in its population gradually took place which came down to zero on the last date of observation 11 November, 2020 which clearly depicted that the gundhi bug population was absent from 22 July 2020 to 23 September 2020 The correlation matrix indicated that the Relative humidity was only having positive impact on the gundhi bug population whereas the rest of the weather parameters shown negative impacts on the gundhi bug population Warm weather with humid condition during the flowering and dough stage of rice increases the gundhi bug population At these stages proper management strategies must be taken to reduce the yield loss

Health benefits of green tea: A mini review

Abstract: For gaining popularity and greater demand for medicinal plants, various medicinal plants are taken into considerations for therapeutic research. Green tea is the processed natural product consumed as a healthy drink for refreshment worldwide. Its leaf is consumed which has medicinal values such as antioxidant activity, antimicrobial activity and it has several phytochemical constituents. It contains 15-20% protein and 1-4% amino acids, 5-7 % carbohydrates and 10-25 % major antioxidant catching tannins. Thousands of bioactive components are present in green tea as polyphenols which is the key factor for preventing many diseases. The objective of this manuscript is to review of therapeutic properties of green tea.

Pesticides toxicity in fishes: A review

Abstract: Pesticides are chemicals used to manage pests which are the source of schistosomiasis, including insects, aquatic weeds, plant diseases, and aquatic snails. Pesticides have been found to be not only extremely harmful to fish, but also to other species that make up the food chain. In general, pesticides are used very widely in agriculture, forestry, public health, and in Practices veterinary. Organophosphate, Carbamate, Organochlorine, Pyrethroids, and Necotenoides are the main chemical classes of insecticides commonly used. The insecticidal residues that contaminate the water, usually within a few weeks after application, are primarily due to intensive farming combined with surface runoff and surface drainage. Insecticides contribute to a decline in growth rate and reproductive disorders. It also induces spinal deformities and histopathological changes in the gills, liver, spleen, head of the kidney and renal tubules, hematopoietic tissue, some biological markers of insecticide exposure are endocrine tissue as well as brain, psychological, behavioural and genetic deficiency disorders. Fish are particularly vulnerable to the pollution of water by the atmosphere.

Bio-efficacy of different insecticides against Aphid (Aphis gossypii) on Tomato, (Lycopersicon esculentum Mill)

Abstract: Bio-efficacy of different insecticides was conducted against aphid on tomato at Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat. The results indicated that thiamethoxam 25 WG 0.008 per cent remained the most effective treatment against aphid followed by dimethoate 30 EC 0.03 per cent. Spiromesifen 22.9 SC 0.028 per cent and indoxacarb 14.5 SC 0.005 per cent were ranked third and fourth effective treatments, respectively. On the other side, Lambda cyhalothrin 5 EC at 0.003 per cent remained the least effective treatment among all the insecticide treatments evaluated in this investigation.

Essential oils: A boon towards eco-friendly management of phytopathogenic fungi

Abstract: Since the era of the beginning of the eco-friendly pest management, various plant-based products showed promising actions, and amidst them, essential oils obtained from the leaves, barks, stems and different parts of the plants proved to be a boon towards effective control of various phytopathogens. Essential oils are odoriferous, volatile organic compounds, consisting of a broad spectrum of secondary plant metabolites. Besides their antibacterial, insecticidal, antimicrobial activities, they have enormous potential to reduce the damage due to phytopathogenic fungus. In about 3000 essential oils identified, only 300 found to be economical, and a narrow spectrum of them has been used to manage fungi. As for as their mode of action is concerned, in fungal pathogens, essential oils establish a membrane potential across the cell wall and disrupt ATP assembly, cell walls and their permeability, leading to cell wall damage. Moreover, improvement in formulations like nano and microemulsions and stabilizing formulations has led to a new paradigm towards efficient control of plant pathogenic fungi. Therefore, the present review depicts the involvement of various plant essential oils in fungicidal and fungistatic activities for controlling plant diseases and also emphasizes on the modes of action of various essential oil products and their formulations available. It also reveals the constraints regarding the essential oil formulations which we have to eliminate for further betterment in eco-friendly phytopathogenic fungi management.

Effect of Non urea and Urea based concentrate supplementation on nutrient utilization and growth performance of goats

Abstract: The quest for sustainable goat production and aptness of concentrate supplementation prompted the current investigation. Eighteen post-weaned local male kids (9.5 ± 0.24 kg BW) were divided into three equal groups viz. T1, T2 and T3 to study the effect of supplementation of concentrate mixture with and without urea under a semi-intensive system of management. The kids under all three groups were allowed 6 to 7 h of grazing daily. Additionally, besides grazing Group T1 was un-supplemented (control), Group T2 was supplemented with a non-urea-based concentrate mixture (CP 16%, TDN 70%) and group T3 was supplemented with a urea-based concentrate mixture (CP 16%, TDN 70%) at 200 g daily. The duration of experimental feeding was 90 days. The parameters studied were nutrient utilization, growth performance and economics of feeding. Intake and digestibility of nutrients were significantly (P< 0.01) lower in control but no significant difference was observed between supplemented groups. The average daily gain (ADG) was significantly (P< 0.01) higher in both the concentrate fed groups then sole grazing group (58. 40 and 55. 44 vs. 26.40). The net return from supplemented groups was higher as compared to control. It is concluded that supplementation of 200 g concentrate mixture in local browsing kids reared under semi-intensive management resulted in increased intake and digestibility of nutrients which, in turn, resulted in higher growth performance. The urea-based concentrate mixture is equally effective as a traditional concentrate mixture and supplementation is economical in growing kids.

Chelonus formosanus Sonan (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) an egg-larval parasitoid of the invasive pest Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) amenable to laboratory mass production in India

Abstract: Field surveys conducted during 2018 in the maize fields infested with Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in Karnataka and during 2019 in Andhra Pradesh yielded an egg-larval parasitoid Chelonus formosanus Sonan (Hymenoptera: Braconidae). This is the first report of C. formosanus parasitizing S. frugiperda in India (in natural field conditions) and which is amenable to mass production (in laboratory conditions). The present study provides morphological identification details along with mass production procedure and biology of C. formosanus.

Eco-friendly management of sugarcane nematode, Pratylenchus zeae graham

Abstract: Field experiments were conducted at Sugarcane Research Station, during 2017-2018 and 2018-2019 to find out the field efficacy of ecofriendly management of lesion nematode, Pratylenchus zeae Graham in sugarcane. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design with ten treatments replicated three times. The initial nematode population was assessed prior to planting by analyzing soil samples. Soil samples were collected on 90,180,270, and 360 days after planting of the cane. The soil samples were processed and analyzed for nematode population. The tiller count was taken up on 90 days after planting. Cane samples were collected on 10th month and analyzed the juice for commercial cane sugar percentage. The pooled analysis of the two years, main and ratoon crop data revealed significant reduction in the population of lesion nematode, Pratylenchus zeae in sugarcane plants treated with the combined application of press-mud 25t/ha, FYM 12.5t/ha, poultry manure 1t/ha, sunhemp intercropping, neem cake 2t/ha, mulching with cane trash 5 t/ha and biocontrol agents of pseudomonas fluorescens + Trichoderma viridie. Significant reduction in nematode population was observed upto harvest of the crop. The above treatment also significantly enhanced the cane yield. The treatment viz., T1 to T7, Carbofuran @ 1kg a.i/ha and neem cake 2t/ha resulted 78.33, 77.15 and 75.45 percent reduction in lesion nematode population over control. The above treatments also enhanced the no. of millable cane/ha, cane yield, sugar yield, commercial cane sugar and benefit cost ratio. The cost benefit ratio worked out for the treatments viz T1 to T7, Carbofuran @ 1kg a.i/ha and neem cake 2t/ha resulted 1:2.76, 1:2.61 and 1:2.58 respectively.

Evaluation of altered sowing date on population build-up of cotton whitefly (Bemisia tabaci Gennadius) and its natural enemies

Abstract: The experiment was carried out with an objective of studying the effect of altered date of sowing on population build-up of cotton whitefly and its natural enemies. The result found that, the whitefly adults and nymph’s population was maximum at late sown crop on 20th June (4.96 adult/leaf and 5.96 nymphs/leaf) while, the minimum population was found at timely sown crop on 7th May (2.48 adult/leaf and 4.62 nymphs/leaf). The late sown crop was heavily attacked with CLCV disease (Cotton Leaf Curl Virus). The whitefly natural enemies mean population had significant positive correlation with adult whitefly population and with whitefly nymph mean population.

Seven non-darwinian theories opposite to evolution

Abstract: The objective of this article is to prove that “Seven non-Darwinian theories opposite to evolution”. However, the genetic drift represents the punctuated equilibrium, the shifting balance theory, the allopatric speciation theory and the species selection theory for the macroevolution. The genetic drift rapidly works in a small and isolated population and not works in a large population. Hence, genetic drift means small and isolated population and vice-versa. But the genetic drift creates zero variation. But there is no variation (raw materials of any kind of evolution); there is no evolution. Hence, evolutionary biologists rejected genetic drift for any kind of evolution. Again, genetic drift means small and isolated but those populations have to mate with their close relative and produced homozygous organisms. Homozygous organisms have low fecundity, suffer from various diseases, least fitted to survive and may extinct suddenly, e.g. American Heath hen. Thus, small populations and isolated populations (i.e. genetic drift) are opposite to any kind of evolution, even risk for extinction. However, genetic drift is also the key force of Neutral theory, which works in smalls and isolated populations. Consequently, Neutral theory is opposite to any kind of evolution. So, many evolutionary biologists rejected Neutral theory. Once more, evolutionary biologists rejected the shifting balance theory, the punctuated equilibrium theory and of Goldschmidt’s theory. Gould and Wright advocated chromosomal speciation (chromosome rearrangements) theory for macroevolution but which are not valid. Moreover, extinction is the main process of the macroevolution, which is quite absurd. The fossil is the excellent and only evidence of those theories of macroevolution. But fossil completely opposes macroevolution. So, those seven non-Darwinian theories are opposite to any kind of evolution. Consequently, the Darwinists, the neo-Darwinists and the Sociobiology’s oppose those non-Darwinian. Subsequently, plants and animals including human are not evolved via those theories.

Influence of abiotic factors on major insect and mite pests of jasmine, Jasminum sambac L

Abstract: Jasmine is an important ornamental crop with attractive fragrant flowers, fetches instant revenue to the farmers. It is attacked by several insect pests and cause considerable economic loss. Studies on seasonal occurrence of insect pests of jasmine was studied during 2019-20 at Tiruchirappalli, India. Among different insect pests, blossom midge was recorded with maximum incidence during August II (34.05% Infested buds). Occurrence of midge was positively correlated with maximum temperature (r = 0.159) and minimum temperature (r = 0.505). The multiple linear regression on damage with weather parameter was worked out and it indicates that the cecidomyid pest was 85.4% influenced by various weather parameters. The incidence of other insect pests viz., bud worm, leaf web worm and red spider mite was recorded and correlated with weather parameters.

Prvalence of Eimeria species in goats in Sulaimanya province, Iraq

Abstract: The aim of this study is to determine prevalence of Eimeria species in goats in Sulaimanya province. This study was done between August 2016– March 2017 in seven different districts (Arbat, Sewng, Zewe, Khalakan, Sitak, Shex rash and Bewre) by visiting these locations at least once and taking feces samples randomly from 150 healthy goats (75 males, 75 female). Feces samples were taken directly from goat’s rectum and treated with Sheather solution by flotation method and examined under microscope. 9 different Eimeria species oocysts were observed in 134 (89.33%) out of 150 samples. The identified species were E. alijevi, E. arloingi, E. ninakohlyakimovae, E. christenseni (ahsata), E. caprovina, E. caprina, E. hirci (crandallis), E.apsheronica (faurei), E. jolchijevi. E. alijevi (61.94%) and E. christenseni (60.44%), were the most common while E. caprinova (5.22%) was the least common. The highest rate of infection according to location was in Khalakan (100%), according to gender males (92%), according to age 0-1 years old male kid goats (92.24%), was reported. According to gender, the most common Eimeria species in females were E. alijevi and E. christenseni (50.76%) and in males was E. alijevi (72.46%), among the infected goats. Among the examined 150 goat feces samples 10.67% was not infected, 13.33% were infected with only one Eimeria species and 76% were mixed infections; highest rate of mixed infection includes 9 Eimeria species. As a result, this study has determined the prevalence of Eimeria species in goats in Sulaimanya province, Iraq for the first time and identified 9 different species of Eimeria in goats. The results of this study have proved that coccidial infection is common in goats in Sulaimaniya Province.

Haemato-biochemical studies on experimental ochratoxicosis in broiler: Its amelioration by fruit powder of Tribulus terrestris and toxin binder alone and in combination

Abstract: The study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of Tribulus terrestris fruit powder (@ 1% of feed) and Toxin binder (Ingredient: Formulated Dipolar Phyllosilicates) (@ 1.5 gm/kg feed) given singly and in combination, in alleviating the toxic effects of ochratoxin A @ 800 ppb administered in broiler diet for 30 days. A total of 120 broiler birds were randomly divided into six equal groups, each comprising of 20 birds. Feeding of the OTA and its allied treatments commenced from 8th day of broiler age (after acclimatization period of 7 days; hence 8th day considered as 0 day). Haemato-biochemical parameters were studied on 15th and 30th days of the experiment. In OTA fed birds (group I), haematological studies revealed significant reduction in the Haemoglobin, Packed Cell Volume, Total Erythrocyte Count, Total Leucocyte count and significant increase in the heterophil count (heterophilia) and blood clotting time, observed at both the intervals of study, while eosinophil and lymphocyte counts showed non-significantly increased and decreased mean values, respectively, whereas basophil and monocyte counts remained unaltered throughout the study. Biochemical profiles revealed significant decrease in serum total protein, albumin and globulin, whereas significant increase in the serum levels of ALT, AST, ALP, BUN, uric acid and creatinine at both the intervals of study. However inclusion of T. terrestris (group IV) and toxin binder (group V) found to be effective in reducing toxic effects of OTA either singly or in combination of both. Further, combination of both the treatment (group VI) showed better improvement in all the altered haemato-biochemical values than their single treatment.