Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Effect of Constant Dietary Energy and Protein Levels on Growth Performance and Reproductive Traits of Vanaraja Chickens

2026-07-22T05:43:12+00:00

The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of dietary protease enzyme supplementation on the growth performance and egg production traits of Vanaraja chickens. The experiment was conducted for 27 weeks under uniform management conditions. A total of 90 day-old Vanaraja chicks were randomly distributed into three dietary treatments (T1, T2 and T3), with 30 birds in each group. The experimental diets were formulated to contain 20% crude protein and 2800 kcal/kg metabolisable energy. Protease enzyme was not added to T1, whereas T2 and T3 were supplemented with protease at 200 g/ton and 300 g/ton, respectively. Standard housing, feeding and health management practices were followed throughout the experimental period. Growth performance parameters, including body weight, body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion ratio, were recorded at regular intervals. Egg production was monitored during the laying phase to assess reproductive performance. The results showed that birds fed the highest level of protease enzyme (T3) recorded the highest body weight, body weight gain, body weight at first laying and total egg production compared with the other treatment groups. Feed intake was highest in T1, whereas feed conversion ratio values require careful interpretation and verification. Based on the findings, dietary supplementation with protease enzyme at 300 g/ton may improve growth performance and egg production in Vanaraja chickens maintained on diets with constant crude protein and metabolisable energy levels.

Pesticide-use Patterns in Okra, Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench, in Rajasthan, India

2026-07-17T12:48:08+00:00

Pesticide-use practices among okra growers were assessed in Jaipur, Dausa and Alwar districts of Rajasthan, India, during 2025. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire was administered through personal interviews with 60 farmers, comprising 20 respondents from each district. Information was recorded on pesticide selection, sources of advice, dosage, spray frequency, pre-harvest interval, storage, disposal and personal-protection practices. Seventeen pesticides covering insecticides, acaricides and fungicides were reported. The most widely used products were copper oxychloride 50% WP (81.66%), carbendazim 12% + mancozeb 63% WP (80.00%), profenofos 40% + cypermethrin 4% EC (73.33%) and chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC (66.66%). Pesticide dealers were the principal source of recommendations for 75% of respondents, whereas only 5% obtained advice from the State Department of Agriculture or an ICAR institute. Only 23.33% of farmers used the recommended insecticide dose, and 85% mixed different pesticides during application. Although 80% were aware of pesticide hazards, knowledge of natural enemies and integrated pest management was limited to 20% and 46.66%, respectively. Most farmers stored pesticides safely and reported using some protective measures, but 88.33% left or discarded empty containers in fields. The findings indicate important gaps in label awareness, dosage compliance, pre-harvest intervals and safe container disposal. Targeted extension support and practical training are needed to improve pesticide stewardship in okra production.

Assessment of Leaf Harvesting Methods on Physiological Indices and Yield of Mulberry in Kashmir

2026-07-17T13:29:58+00:00

The productivity and profitability of sericulture mainly depend on maximising leaf yield per unit area at an economically viable cost. Mulberry (Morus spp.) is the only food source for the silkworm (Bombyx mori L.). The objective of the present study was to assess the effect of different autumn leaf-harvesting methods on physiological indices and yield of mulberry under Kashmir conditions. The investigation was conducted at the College of Temperate Sericulture, Mirgund, SKUAST-K, to evaluate the effects of different autumn leaf-harvesting methods on subsequent spring leaf yield and yield-attributing parameters in mulberry. The physiological and yield parameters recorded during spring showed significant differences among treatments. Among the treatments, T6 (25% branch cutting by length) produced comparatively better spring leaf yield and remained at par with the control, in which no leaf was plucked during the previous year. In contrast, T2 (100% leaf plucking during the previous autumn) recorded the highest frost damage (33%), compared with 2% in T7, and showed only 59% sprouting, compared with 84% in T7. During spring, leaf yield in T2 was 1.03 kg per plant, whereas T6 recorded 2.87 kg per plant. Although annual yield in T2 (4.53 kg per plant) was at par with T7, T6, T5 and T3, its spring yield, which represents the main crop at the farmers’ level, was very low. Overall, T6 outperformed the treatments in which the second flush was harvested during autumn through either defoliation or branch cutting, particularly in terms of leaf yield per plant.

Phytochemical Profile and in vitro Antiplasmodial Activity of Ximenia americana L. (Olacaceae) and Waltheria indica L. (Sterculiaceae)

2026-07-18T10:27:37+00:00

Ximenia americana and Waltheria indica are used in traditional medicine in Burkina Faso for treating malaria in children aged 0–5 years. This study evaluated their phytochemical profiles, antioxidant properties, mineral contents, and in vitro antiplasmodial activities. Leaf and bark extracts of X. americana and whole-plant extracts of W. indica were prepared using solvents of increasing polarity. Phenolic and terpenoid constituents were screened by high-performance thin-layer chromatography, while total phenolic, flavonoid, and terpenoid contents were quantified using colourimetric methods. Mineral contents were determined by inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry. Antioxidant activity was assessed by DPPH radical-scavenging and ferric-ion-reduction assays. Antiplasmodial activity was evaluated against the chloroquine-sensitive 3D7 and multidrug-resistant Dd2 strains of Plasmodium falciparum by measuring parasite lactate dehydrogenase production. Aqueous leaf and bark extracts of X. americana showed high activity against 3D7, with IC₅₀ values of 4.08 ± 0.00 and 4.41 ± 0.00 µg/mL, respectively. The ethyl acetate fraction of W. indica showed good activity against Dd2, with an IC₅₀ of 7.41 ± 4.45 µg/mL. Both species contained phenolic compounds, flavonoids, terpenoids, and essential minerals and exhibited antioxidant activity. These findings support further investigation of the two species as sources of antiplasmodial and antioxidant constituents, while recognising that the present evidence is limited to in vitro assays.

Proximate Composition and Macromineral Profile of Portulaca oleracea L.: A Wild Edible Plant from the Kashmir Himalayas, India

2026-07-18T10:36:22+00:00

Background: Wild edible plants contribute to dietary diversity and may provide valuable nutrients and minerals, particularly in rural and mountainous communities. Portulaca oleracea L. is a widely consumed wild edible species, but its proximate composition and macromineral profile remain insufficiently documented in the Kashmir Himalayas.

Aims: This study was conducted to evaluate the proximate composition and macromineral profile of the wild edible plant species, Portulaca oleracea, from the Sindh Forest Division of the Kashmir Himalayas.

Study Design: An experimental laboratory-based study.

Place and Duration of Study: Plant samples were collected from different habitats within the Sindh Forest Division, Kashmir Himalayas, India, from April to June 2025, and proximate and mineral analyses were conducted using standard laboratory procedures.

Methodology: Healthy, fresh plant samples were collected, air-dried, powdered, and analysed for their proximate and mineral contents. Organic matter, ash, crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, nitrogen-free extract, and acid-insoluble ash were determined according to standard AOAC methods. Sodium (Na) and potassium (K) concentrations were determined by flame photometry following acid digestion, whereas calcium (Ca) content was estimated by wet acid digestion and atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). All procedures were conducted according to standard AOAC methods.

Results: The proximate analysis revealed dry matter (92.56 ± 0.14%), crude protein (13.98 ± 0.09%), crude fat (1.65 ± 0.001%), crude fibre (11.23 ± 0.21%), organic matter (91.03 ± 0.16%), ash (8.97 ± 0.16%), nitrogen-free extract (64.17 ± 1.0%), and acid-insoluble ash (3.44 ± 0.009%). Mineral analysis showed that potassium (3.70 ± 0.17%) was the predominant macromineral, followed by sodium (3.30 ± 0.70%) and calcium (1.15 ± 0.01%).

Conclusion: The findings indicate that P. oleracea has a favourable proximate composition and considerable concentrations of essential macrominerals, thereby highlighting the nutritional potential of this wild edible plant.

Predatory Efficiency and Functional Response of the Wolf Spider Pardosa pseudoannulata (Boesenberg and Strand) against the Brown Planthopper Nilaparvata lugens (Stål) under Laboratory Conditions

2026-07-18T12:36:26+00:00

The present study evaluated the predatory efficiency and functional response of the wolf spider Pardosa pseudoannulata against nymphs of the brown planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens, under laboratory conditions. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomised design with six prey-density treatments consisting of 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, and 60 brown planthopper nymphs per arena. A single adult spider was released into each arena, and prey consumption was recorded after 24 hours. Each treatment was replicated three times. The number of prey killed increased with increasing prey density, indicating that prey availability influenced predator feeding. The mean number of nymphs consumed increased from 8.67 at a prey density of 10 nymphs to 23.33 at a prey density of 60 nymphs. In contrast, the proportion of prey killed declined from 0.87 to 0.39 across the same prey-density range, showing reduced proportional consumption at higher prey densities. Functional response analysis based on the relationship between reciprocal prey attacked and the reciprocal prey density-time product indicated a Holling Type II functional response. This pattern was characterised by an increase in prey consumption at lower prey densities, followed by a gradual reduction in consumption efficiency as prey density increased. The findings suggest that P. pseudoannulata can consume brown planthopper nymphs effectively under laboratory conditions and may contribute to the natural regulation of planthopper populations in rice ecosystems. Further field-based studies are required to confirm its practical role in integrated pest management.

Genetic Variability, Character Association, and Path Coefficient Analysis for Yield and Grain Quality Traits in Indian Basmati Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes

2026-07-18T13:02:08+00:00

Basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) occupies a unique position in global agricultural trade, prized for its distinctive aroma, superior milling recovery, and extra-long slender grains. However, simultaneously improving grain yield and premium quality attributes remains one of the most persistent challenges in basmati breeding. The present study evaluated genetic variability, trait associations, and yield-determining factors among 57 basmati rice genotypes across 18 morphological, yield, and grain quality characters during Kharif 2024 at Rice Research Station, Kaul, Chaudhary Charan Singh Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar, India. Analysis of variance revealed highly significant differences (p ≤ 0.01) among genotypes for all 18 traits, confirming a broad spectrum of heritable diversity within the experimental material. Broad-sense heritability ranged from 41.56% for flag leaf length to 96.39% for days to 50% flowering, with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean recorded for the number of grains per panicle, number of effective tillers per plant, harvest index, plant height, and grain yield per plant, indicating predominant additive gene action and strong prospects for direct phenotypic selection. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive associations of grain yield per plant with biological yield per plant (r = 0.584), harvest index (r = 0.490), number of grains per panicle (r = 0.400), 1000-grain weight (r = 0.365), and head rice recovery (r = 0.248), whereas plant height (r = −0.349) and days to maturity (r = −0.167) showed significant negative correlations with grain yield. Path coefficient analysis identified biological yield per plant (direct effect = 0.939) and harvest index (direct effect = 0.879) as the principal direct contributors to grain yield, with a modest residual effect of 0.011, confirming that the model adequately explained yield variation. Importantly, the positive association of grain yield with milling percentage, head rice recovery, and kernel dimensions indicates that improvements in yield need not compromise grain quality. On the basis of superior grain yield and quality parameters, ten genotypes, namely HKR-17-424, HKR-15-455, HKR-17-422, PB-7, UPR 4636-18-2-1-1, CSR 301-16 BT-208, Pusa 3067-16-10-6, PAU 8484-111-1-1, CSR BT-252-19, and PB-1885, were identified as promising breeding parents for developing high-yielding, export-quality basmati cultivars.

Morphological and Ultrastructural Characterisation of Hippoboscid Flies (Diptera: Hippoboscidae) from Assam, India

2026-07-20T09:18:27+00:00

This study examined the morphological and ultrastructural characteristics of hippoboscid flies collected from Assam, India. Specimens representing Hippobosca longipennis, Pseudolynchia canariensis and Lipoptena cervi were obtained from different hosts and localities between October 2024 and October 2025 and preserved for taxonomic examination. Adult flies were studied using stereo-zoom microscopy, and selected specimens were processed for scanning electron microscopy to document diagnostic characters of the head, antennae, mouthparts, thorax, wings, legs and terminalia. Light microscopic observations enabled species-level recognition based on overall body form, wing venation, antennal morphology, pretarsal structures and sex-specific terminal characters. Scanning electron microscopy provided additional resolution of fine surface features, including antennal sensilla, labellar sensilla, prestomal teeth, cuticular sculpturing, claws, pulvilli and genital structures. The three species showed distinct combinations of morphological and ultrastructural characters that supported their identification and comparison with existing descriptions. These observations were particularly useful for recognising subtle traits that may be difficult to resolve during routine examination. The findings provide baseline taxonomic information on hippoboscid flies from Assam and indicate the usefulness of combining conventional morphology with scanning electron microscopy for documenting diagnostic traits. This work may support future ecological, epidemiological and molecular investigations of hippoboscid ectoparasites in the region while contributing to improved recognition of medically and veterinary relevant fly species.

Interactive Effects of Humic Acid and Seaweed Extract on Growth, Yield and Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)

2026-07-20T09:25:35+00:00

Background: Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) productivity and fruit quality are strongly influenced by nutrient availability and crop-management practices. Humic acid and seaweed extract are plant biostimulants that may enhance vegetative growth, yield, and quality when applied at appropriate concentrations.

Aims: This study evaluated the individual and interactive effects of foliar-applied humic acid and seaweed extract on the growth, yield, fruit quality, and economic performance of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) cv. Arka Samrat.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur, during the Rabi season of 2025–26.

Methodology: The experiment was laid out in a factorial randomised block design with two factors: humic acid at four concentrations (0, 2, 4, and 6 mL/L) and seaweed extract at four concentrations (0, 2, 4, and 6 mL/L). The 16 treatment combinations were replicated three times, and the observed data were analysed using OPSTAT.

Results: Significant differences were observed among the treatments. Among the treatment combinations, humic acid at 4 mL/L combined with seaweed extract at 4 mL/L (M3T3) recorded the greatest plant height (312.62 cm), number of branches per plant (9.07), plant spread (65.92 cm), number of leaves per plant (69.13), number of clusters per plant (11.80), and number of flowers per cluster (9.01). It also recorded the fewest days to first flowering (27.69), 50% flowering (36.96), and first fruiting (41.95), together with the greatest number of fruits per cluster (8.24), average fruit weight (109.73 g), fruit yield per plant (6.40 kg), number of fruits per plant (58.35), total soluble solids (4.99 °Brix), ascorbic acid content (26.68 mg/100 g), and benefit–cost ratio (2.97).

Conclusion: The treatment combination of humic acid at 4 mL/L and seaweed extract at 4 mL/L (M3T3) produced the most favourable growth, yield, quality, and economic responses under the conditions of this experiment. However, these findings are indicative and require further experimentation across seasons and locations before broader recommendations can be made.

Morphological and Cultural Variability among Bipolaris sorokiniana Isolates Causing Spot Blotch of Wheat

2026-07-20T10:27:40+00:00

Spot blotch, caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana (Sacc.) Shoemaker, is one of the most destructive foliar diseases of wheat and results in significant yield losses under warm and humid conditions. The present investigation was conducted to examine the cultural and morphological variability among eight isolates of B. sorokiniana collected from different wheat-growing regions of Uttarakhand, India. The isolates were cultured on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium and evaluated for colony morphology, radial mycelial growth, conidial pigmentation, septation, shape, and dimensions. Considerable variability was observed among the isolates for all the characteristics evaluated. Colony colour varied from white, whitish grey, and light grey to dark grey and greyish black, whereas colony texture ranged from cottony and fluffy to appressed and suppressed growth. After eight days of incubation, radial mycelial growth ranged from 40 to 80 mm, with isolate BS-1 (Pantnagar) exhibiting the maximum growth and BS-6 (Gadarpur) exhibiting the minimum. Microscopic observations revealed variation in conidial pigmentation from light brown and olive brown to dark brown. Conidial septation ranged from 2 to 8 septa, whereas conidial shapes were elliptical, oblong, or slightly curved. Conidial length and width ranged from 58.06 to 85.53 μm and from 16.08 to 23.31 μm, respectively. Despite these differences, all isolates exhibited morphological characteristics consistent with those of B. sorokiniana. The observed phenotypic diversity indicates substantial variability within the pathogen population, which may influence disease development, pathogenic behaviour, and management strategies. These findings provide valuable baseline information for accurate pathogen identification and support future studies on pathogenic variability, resistance breeding, and the integrated management of wheat spot blotch.

Effect of Iron and Zinc Application on Yield, Content and Uptake of Nutrients of Pearl Millet

2026-07-20T11:15:41+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif 2019 at the farm of the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani, to evaluate the effects of iron and zinc application on the yield, nutrient content, and nutrient uptake of pearl millet. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments included an absolute control, the recommended dose of fertiliser, soil applications of FeSO₄ or ZnSO₄, a combined soil application of FeSO₄ and ZnSO₄, and foliar applications of FeSO₄, ZnSO₄, or their combination at 30 and 45 days after sowing. The highest grain yield of 28.89 q ha⁻¹ and stover yield of 61.31 q ha⁻¹ were recorded with the recommended dose of fertiliser plus the soil application of 25 kg ha⁻¹ FeSO₄ and 25 kg ha⁻¹ ZnSO₄. This treatment also recorded higher nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron, and zinc contents and uptake in grain and stover than the other treatments. The combined foliar application of FeSO₄ and ZnSO₄ also improved yield and nutrient uptake compared with the recommended dose of fertiliser alone. The results indicate that the combined soil application of iron and zinc with the recommended fertiliser dose may improve pearl millet yield and nutrient accumulation under the experimental conditions.

Phenotypic Diversity of Macrophomina phaseolina Causing Stem and Root Rot of Sunflower across Diverse Agroecological Regions of India

2026-07-20T12:40:09+00:00

Background: Stem and root rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is an important constraint to sunflower production, particularly under warm and moisture-limited conditions.

Aims: The study aims to investigate the phenotypic diversity of Macrophomina phaseolina isolates causing stem and root rot of sunflower and to evaluate the effects of different culture media, pH, and temperature on the in vitro growth and sclerotial production of the pathogen.

Study Design: A laboratory-based experimental study involving morphological, cultural, and physiological characterisation of geographically diverse M. phaseolina isolates.

Place and Methodology: A roving survey was conducted during Kharif 2025 and Rabi 2025–26 across Karnataka, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, Haryana, and Punjab. Thirty isolates, comprising 25 field isolates obtained from naturally infected sunflower plants and five ICAR-IIOR reference isolates, were purified and characterised for morphological, cultural, and physiological variability. Colony morphology, radial growth, hyphal characteristics, and sclerotial traits were recorded. Seven culture media, four pH levels, and six temperature regimes were evaluated for their effects on mycelial growth and sclerotial production under laboratory conditions.

Results: The 30 isolates exhibited substantial phenotypic diversity. Colony colour, texture, and radial growth varied considerably, with colony diameters ranging from 5.5 to 8.0 cm. Hyphal width, branching pattern, and basal constriction also differed among isolates. Sclerotia varied in size, shape, density, and initiation time, and several isolates produced abundant sclerotia rapidly. Potato dextrose agar supported the greatest mycelial growth and sclerotial production, whereas Martin’s Rose Bengal agar supported the least growth. Maximum growth occurred under slightly acidic conditions (pH 5.6–6.0), whereas growth declined under neutral and alkaline conditions. Optimum mycelial growth occurred at 25–35°C, while maximum sclerotial production was recorded at 30–35°C. Growth was lowest at 15°C, whereas moderate growth persisted at 40°C, indicating that the isolates remained viable across a broad temperature range.

Conclusion: Macrophomina phaseolina populations infecting sunflower in India exhibited substantial phenotypic and physiological variability. Potato dextrose agar, slightly acidic pH, and temperatures of 25–35°C were favourable for fungal growth and sclerotial development. These findings may inform epidemiological studies, resistance screening, and integrated management of sunflower stem and root rot.

Influence of Phosphorus Levels, Phosphorus-solubilizer and Phosphorus-mobilizers on Growth, Yield and Nutrient Uptake of FCV Tobacco

2026-07-20T12:49:07+00:00

Aims: The present study evaluates the effects of phosphorus (P) levels, the P-solubilizer Bacillus megaterium and the P-mobilizer Glomus mosseae on growth, yield, nutrient uptake and post-harvest soil properties of FCV tobacco.

Study Design: Randomized Complete Block Design with seven treatments and three replications. Place and Duration of Study: Zonal Agricultural and Horticultural Research Station, Navile, Shivamogga, Karnataka, India, during Kharif 2017-18 and 2018-19, followed by on-farm validation across the Karnataka Light Soil region during 2020 and 2021.

Methodology: Seven treatments combining 100% or 75% recommended phosphorus with the recommended nitrogen and potassium dose and either single or combined bioagent application were evaluated. Growth parameters, green leaf yield, cured leaf yield, top-grade equivalent, nutrient uptake and post-harvest soil properties were analysed using standard procedures. The best phosphorus-saving treatment was validated at 15 farmers’ fields.

Results: Treatment T4, comprising 100% recommended NPK with both bioagents at 6.25 kg ha⁻¹ each, recorded higher plant height (12.6 cm), leaf area (617.2 cm² plant⁻¹), green leaf yield (10,795 kg ha⁻¹), cured leaf yield (1,060 kg ha⁻¹) and N, P and K uptake (36.98, 11.86 and 92.71 kg ha⁻¹, respectively) than recommended NPK alone. Treatment T7 showed comparable performance and, in on-farm validation, increased cured leaf yield by 6.6% over RDF.

Conclusion: Combined use of Bacillus megaterium and Glomus mosseae with 75% recommended phosphorus may support reduced phosphorus application without compromising FCV tobacco productivity under Karnataka Light Soil conditions.

Modulation of Immunity by Moringa oleifera in Broiler Chickens

2026-07-20T12:54:54+00:00

The leaves of Moringa oleifera have several pharmacological properties, including antimicrobial and antioxidant activities, and are rich in vitamins and minerals that may benefit human and animal health. Hence, this study aimed to determine the effects of Moringa oleifera ethanolic leaf extract (MOELE) on the immunity level of broiler chickens. A total of 144 day-old broiler chicks (Vencobb 430) were randomly allocated to four groups, with three replicates per group and twelve birds per replicate. The treatments were: T₀/control = no extract; T₁ = 2 mL/L MOELE in drinking water; T₂ = 4 mL/L MOELE in drinking water; and T₃ = 6 mL/L MOELE in drinking water. Immune organ indices and selected blood parameters were evaluated among the four groups. The average bursa of Fabricius organ indices in groups T₂ and T₃ were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than those in groups T₀ and T₁. For the spleen and thymus, group T₃ showed statistically higher values than all other groups. On day 42, heterophil values in the MOELE-treated groups were significantly (P < 0.05) lower than those in the control group, whereas lymphocyte values in the MOELE-treated groups were higher (P < 0.05) than those in the control group. The H/L ratio also improved (P < 0.05) in the MOELE-treated groups by day 42 compared with the control group. The HI titre against Newcastle disease vaccine in groups T₂ and T₃ was significantly higher (P < 0.05) by day 42 than in the other groups. From these results, it can be concluded that addition of moringa extract to drinking water may have beneficial effects on broiler chicken health and may improve immunity.

Incidence, Pathology and Antibiogram Studies of E. coli Infection in Chicken in and around Hyderabad, India

2026-07-20T13:40:50+00:00

Background: Avian pathogenic E. coli (APEC) is responsible for colibacillosis, a multifactorial disease characterised by respiratory distress, septicaemia, pericarditis, perihepatitis, and other systemic lesions that result in considerable morbidity and mortality in broiler flocks worldwide.

Aim: This study aimed to investigate mortality trends, disease distribution, age-wise susceptibility, isolation and identification of Escherichia coli, and the gross and histopathological features of colibacillosis in chickens in and around Hyderabad.

Study Design, Place and Duration of Study: An observational study involving the pathological and bacteriological examination of poultry carcasses was conducted at the Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, between July and December 2025.

Methodology: Carcasses of chickens from poultry farms were examined for gross and histopathological lesions. E. coli was isolated and identified using cultural and biochemical methods, including IMViC tests. Antimicrobial susceptibility was evaluated using the Kirby–Bauer disc diffusion technique.

Results: During the study period, colibacillosis was recorded in seven outbreaks comprising 156 cases, yielding a case prevalence of 20.55% and a mortality rate of 1.95%. The disease affected birds in all age groups. The highest mortality was observed in the 15–21-day age group (2.33%), followed by the 0–7-day and 8–14-day age groups (2.00% each), the 22–28-day age group (1.67%), and birds aged >29 days (1.33%). Grossly, affected birds showed congestion of the visceral organs, fibrinous pericarditis, perihepatitis, and polyserositis. The intestinal wall was thickened, with catarrhal exudate in the lumen. Histopathologically, liver sections revealed inflammatory cell infiltration, dilatation and congestion of the central vein, and fibrin deposition between hepatocytes. Intestinal sections showed enteritis characterised by heterophilic and lymphocytic infiltration of the mucosa, submucosa, and muscularis, together with degeneration and desquamation of the villi. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing of 32 E. coli isolates demonstrated the highest sensitivity to ceftriaxone (81.25%), followed by ciprofloxacin (68.75%) and cefotaxime (56.25%).

Conclusion: Colibacillosis remains an important cause of mortality in poultry. Ceftriaxone and ciprofloxacin showed greater in vitro activity against E. coli isolates, indicating their potential therapeutic relevance.

Trait Association and Path Coefficient Analysis for Green Fodder Yield and Nutritional Traits in Fodder Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.] Germplasm

2026-07-20T13:46:02+00:00

Improving green fodder yield in cowpea requires a clear understanding of the relationships among yield-contributing traits and the magnitude of their effects on productivity. The present study investigated trait associations and the direct and indirect effects of important agro-morphological and quality traits on green fodder yield in fodder cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]. A total of 104 genotypes, comprising 100 germplasm accessions and four check varieties, were evaluated during Kharif 2022 at the Agricultural Research Institute, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Telangana, using an Augmented Complete Block Design. Observations were recorded for fourteen yield and quality attributes. Phenotypic correlation analysis revealed that green fodder yield had significant positive associations with plant height (0.24), leaf length (0.26), fresh leaf weight (0.29), fresh stem weight (0.92), dry fodder yield (0.31), dry matter content (0.25), and crude protein content (0.20), whereas the leaf-to-stem ratio exhibited a significant negative association with green fodder yield. Path coefficient analysis indicated that fresh stem weight exerted the highest positive direct effect (0.8919) on green fodder yield, followed by dry matter content (0.0569), dry fodder yield (0.0532), number of primary branches per plant (0.0315), leaf length (0.0161), number of secondary branches per plant (0.0094), and fresh leaf weight (0.0027). The coefficient of determination (R² = 0.8831) indicated that the included traits explained 88.31% of the variation in green fodder yield. The high direct contribution of fresh stem weight should be interpreted cautiously because it constitutes a major component of green fodder yield. The study identified fresh stem weight, dry fodder yield, dry matter content, leaf length, and branching traits as key selection criteria for improving fodder productivity and developing superior fodder cowpea cultivars.

Nutrient Content and Uptake of Indian Mustard (Brassica juncea) as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management and Sowing Dates

2026-07-21T09:11:31+00:00

Sowing date is a crucial factor influencing the productivity of Indian mustard in the Gwalior region. Delayed sowing frequently exposes the crop to unfavourable temperature regimes and terminal heat stress during the reproductive phase, which adversely affects crop growth and consequently reduces yield. Therefore, determining an optimum sowing window is essential for attaining improved growth and higher productivity. In this regard, a field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2025-26 at the Crop Research Centre, ITM University, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, India, on sandy loam soil to assess the effect of integrated nutrient management practices on the productivity and profitability of Indian mustard under different sowing dates. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design comprising three sowing dates as main-plot treatments (D₁ - 01/10/2025, D₂ - 15/10/2025 and D₃ - 30/10/2025) and four nutrient-management practices as sub-plot treatments (N₀ - control, N₁ - 100% RDF + vermicompost @ 3 t ha^-1, N₂ - 75% RDF + vermicompost @ 3 t ha^-1 and N₃ - 50% RDF + vermicompost @ 3 t ha^-1), with three replications. The findings revealed that mustard sown on 01 October significantly outperformed the delayed sowing treatments by recording higher nutrient content and uptake, along with superior seed yield (23.4 q ha^-1) and stover yield (42.4 q ha^-1). Among the nutrient-management treatments, the application of 100% RDF along with vermicompost @ 3 t ha^-1 proved to be the most effective, enhancing nutrient content and uptake and achieving the maximum seed yield (24.3 q ha^-1) and stover yield (42.4 q ha^-1) compared with the remaining treatments.

Comparative Evaluation of Biopesticides for the Management of Leucinodes orbonalis Infesting Brinjal

2026-07-21T09:18:33+00:00

Brinjal shoot and fruit borer, Leucinodes orbonalis, is a major pest of brinjal that causes serious damage to shoots and fruits. This field study evaluated the relative efficacy of selected biopesticides and biorational insecticides against L. orbonalis during the Kharif season of 2023 at the College of Agriculture, Hassan. The experiment was laid out in a randomised block design with eight treatments and three replications. The treatments comprised Metarhizium rileyi, Beauveria bassiana, azadirachtin 1,500 ppm, Metarhizium anisopliae, azadirachtin 10,000 ppm, spinosad 45% SC, chlorantraniliprole 18.5% SC as the standard check, and an untreated control. Two sprays were applied: the first at the initiation of infestation and the second 15 days later. Shoot infestation was recorded 3, 7, and 14 days after each spray, whereas fruit infestation was recorded at harvest. Chlorantraniliprole recorded the lowest pooled shoot infestation (2.78%) and fruit infestation (17.26%). Among the tested biopesticide and biorational treatments, spinosad recorded the lowest pooled shoot infestation (3.72%) and fruit infestation (19.06%), followed by azadirachtin 10,000 ppm. Entomopathogenic fungi were less effective than spinosad and azadirachtin but performed better than the untreated control. The findings indicate that spinosad and azadirachtin may be useful components of an integrated management programme for L. orbonalis.

Molecular Marker Validation for Grain Iron, Zinc, and Protein Content in Rice Using Single Marker Analysis Approach

2026-07-21T09:24:40+00:00

Micronutrient malnutrition, particularly iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) deficiencies, remains a major global health concern, highlighting the need for rice biofortification. Validating molecular markers linked to grain nutritional traits is essential for their effective use in marker-assisted breeding. In this study, a BC₁F₇ backcross inbred line (BIL) population comprising 158 lines derived from RNR15048 × Karuppunel was evaluated to validate simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers associated with grain Fe, Zn, and protein content (GPC) through single-marker analysis (SMA). A total of 196 SSR markers, including 118 previously reported QTL-linked markers, were screened for parental polymorphism; 89 polymorphic markers were subsequently used to genotype the BIL population. SMA identified 23 marker–trait associations across chromosomes 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, and 9, of which 18 exceeded the specified LOD threshold. Zinc content in polished rice had the highest number of significant associations (eight), followed by zinc content in brown rice (seven). Two markers, RM341 and RM11, were significantly associated with iron content in brown rice, while RM3524 was associated with GPC. The significant markers explained 3.83–10.68% of the phenotypic variation, indicating that these nutritional traits are influenced by multiple minor-effect loci. These validated SSR markers represent potentially useful molecular tools for marker-assisted selection aimed at developing rice cultivars with enhanced grain iron, zinc, and protein content for sustainable biofortification programmes.

Interactive Influence of Irrigation Regimes and Integrated Nutrient Management on Reproductive Performance and Seed Quality of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.)

2026-07-21T10:54:55+00:00

A field experiment was conducted during 2023–24 and 2024–25 at the Vegetable Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India, to evaluate the interactive effects of irrigation regimes and integrated nutrient management (INM) on the reproductive performance and seed quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) var. Kashi Aman. The experiment followed a split-plot design with three replications, comprising normal irrigation and drought stress in the main plots and eight nutrient treatments in the subplots. Drought advanced flowering but reduced locule number, seeds per fruit, seed test weight and germination. The integrated treatment comprising 50% recommended fertiliser dose, 50% vermicompost and biofertilisers recorded the highest locule numbers, seeds per fruit, seed test weights and germination under both irrigation regimes. The treatment comprising 100% vermicompost and biofertilisers induced the earliest flowering under normal and drought conditions. Vermicompost alone, vermicompost with biofertilisers and biofertilisers alone showed comparatively greater stability for selected reproductive and seed-quality traits under drought. Overall, combining inorganic, organic and microbial nutrient sources supported tomato reproductive performance and seed quality under water-limited conditions. These findings indicate the potential value of integrated nutrient management for improving reproductive efficiency under drought, although validation across additional cultivars, locations and quantified water regimes is required before broader recommendations are made.

Identification of Superior Maize Hybrids Based on Heterosis for Yield and its Component Traits

2026-07-21T12:05:27+00:00

Background: The dominance hypothesis attributes heterotic performance to partial or complete dominance, whereby favourable dominant alleles mask deleterious recessives, resulting in heterozygote values exceeding the parental mean

Aim: The present study aim to evaluate the magnitude of heterosis for yield in maize to identify superior hybrid combinations for yield enhancement and earliness.

Study Design: A Line × tester mating design followed by evaluation in a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Agricultural College, Polasa, Jagtial district, Telangana, India. Crosses were made during kharif 2022 and hybrids were evaluated during rabi 2022–23.

Methodology: Six inbred lines were crossed with four testers to produce 24 F₁ hybrids. These hybrids, along with their parents and standard check (DHM-117), were evaluated for 12 traits including flowering traits (days to 50% anthesis, days to 50% silking, anthesis–silking interval, days to maturity), yield components (ear length, ear girth, kernel rows per ear, kernels per row, 100-kernel weight), plant traits (plant height, ear height and grain yield per plant. Relative heterosis (mid-parent), heterobeltiosis (better parent), and standard heterosis (over check) were estimated. Negative heterosis was considered desirable for earliness traits, while positive heterosis was desirable for yield and its components.

Results: Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits, indicating substantial genetic variability. Significant negative heterosis for flowering and maturity traits indicated potential for early maturing hybrids. Grain yield per plant exhibited high heterotic expression, with mid-parent heterosis up to 90.69%, heterobeltiosis up to 57.81%, and standard heterosis up to 27.45%. Eight hybrids showed significant positive standard heterosis for grain yield. Hybrids PFSR 132 × BML 6, PFSR 135 × BML 6, PFSR 70 × CML 286, PFSR 135 × CML 451 and PFSR 29 × BML 7 emerged as promising combinations for yield improvement. The results indicate substantial genetic diversity and scope for exploiting heterosis in maize breeding programs.

Conclusion: Studies on standard heterosis for grain yield per plant revealed that the crosses PFSR 132 × BML 6, PFSR 135 × BML 6, and PFSR 70 × CML 286 exhibited the highest significant positive standard heterosis among the evaluated hybrids. The superior performance of these crosses indicates their strong heterotic potential for grain yield improvement. Furthermore, these hybrids demonstrated favourable heterotic expression in the F₁ generation, suggesting the presence of desirable gene combinations that could be effectively exploited in breeding programmes. Therefore, these promising crosses may be advanced to subsequent generations in order to isolate and identify superior transgressive segregants with enhanced yield potential and desirable agronomic characteristics.

Screening of Different Banana Cultivars against Post Harvest Anthracnose Caused by Colletotrichum musae

2026-07-23T11:04:53+00:00

Anthracnose caused by Colletotrichum musae is a destructive postharvest disease of banana that reduces fruit quality, shelf life, and marketability. This study evaluated the responses of five commercially important banana cultivars to anthracnose under artificial inoculation conditions. Healthy mature-green fruits of Chiniya, Singapuri, Malbhog, Robusta, and Grand Naine (G-9) were inoculated with actively growing mycelium of C. musae using the pin-prick method and incubated under conditions favourable for disease development. Disease severity was assessed using a 0–5 rating scale, and the Percent Disease Index (PDI) was recorded at 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after inoculation. Disease progression was quantified using the Area Under Disease Progress Curve (AUDPC), and cultivar differences were analysed using one-way analysis of variance followed by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test. All cultivars developed characteristic anthracnose symptoms, but the onset and progression of disease differed significantly. Robusta recorded the highest AUDPC value (464.5), followed by G-9 (401.3) and Malbhog (339.7), indicating comparatively rapid disease development. Singapuri and Chiniya recorded lower AUDPC values of 246.4 and 199.8, respectively, and showed slower symptom progression. None of the cultivars exhibited complete resistance to C. musae. The findings demonstrate cultivar-dependent variation in susceptibility and indicate that Chiniya and Singapuri were relatively less susceptible under the laboratory conditions employed. Cultivar selection should therefore be integrated with appropriate postharvest disease management practices to reduce anthracnose-related losses.

Seasonal Incidence and Influence of Weather Parameters on the Population Dynamics of Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in Chickpea under Western Uttar Pradesh Conditions

2026-07-23T11:11:11+00:00

Aim: To investigate the seasonal incidence of gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner), and to determine the influence of prevailing weather parameters on its population dynamics in chickpea under the agro-climatic conditions of Western Uttar Pradesh.

Study Design: A field experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2025–26 at the Crop Research Centre, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology, Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. The chickpea variety GNG-1958 was grown under natural field conditions, and observations were recorded throughout the crop season.

Methodology: The crop was raised following recommended agronomic practices. Weekly observations on the larval population of H. armigera were recorded from the initial appearance of the pest until crop maturity. Simultaneously, meteorological data, including maximum temperature, minimum temperature, morning relative humidity, evening relative humidity and rainfall, were obtained from the university meteorological observatory. Correlation analysis was performed to determine the relationship between weather parameters and pest population.

Results: The larval population of Helicoverpa armigera first appeared during the 1st Standard Meteorological Week (SMW), with 0.65 larvae per five plants. It increased progressively and reached a peak of 5.65 larvae per five plants during the 7th SMW, after which it declined gradually to 0.70 larvae per five plants by the 13th SMW. Correlation analysis revealed weak positive associations between larval population and maximum temperature (r = 0.240), minimum temperature (r = 0.026), and rainfall (r = 0.160), whereas morning relative humidity (r = -0.035) and evening relative humidity (r = -0.512) showed negative associations. All correlations were statistically non-significant, and evening relative humidity had the largest absolute correlation coefficient among the variables examined.

Conclusion: The present investigation showed that the 7th SMW was the period of highest observed H. armigera infestation in chickpea, coinciding with the reproductive stage of the crop. Maximum and minimum temperatures showed weak positive associations with larval population, whereas morning and evening relative humidity showed negative associations; none of the correlations was statistically significant. These findings indicate the value of intensified pest surveillance during flowering and pod development, while multi-season observations are required before a weather-based forecasting model can be validated.

Isolation and Identification of Potential Probiotic Bacteria from the Gut of Xiphophorus helleri

2026-07-23T11:18:29+00:00

This study investigated culturable bacteria from the gastrointestinal tract of the freshwater ornamental swordtail, Xiphophorus helleri, to identify isolates with preliminary characteristics relevant to probiotic screening. Five fish were obtained from a local aquarium source and acclimatised before intestinal sampling. The gastrointestinal tracts were aseptically removed, homogenised in sterile normal saline and serially diluted. Samples were spread on de Man, Rogosa and Sharpe agar and incubated anaerobically. Eleven bacterial strains were initially recovered, and nine morphologically distinct isolates—CX1, CX2, CX4, CX9, CX11, CX13(a), CX13(b), CX14 and CX19—were selected for further examination. The isolates were evaluated by colony morphology, Gram staining and biochemical tests, including pH tolerance, catalase, oxidase, nitrate reduction and methyl red reactions. Most isolates were Gram-negative, whereas CX4 was Gram-positive. All isolates tolerated pH 8, and most showed growth between pH 6 and 8. Catalase activity was detected in CX1, CX4 and CX11; only CX4 was oxidase-positive; and nitrate reduction was observed in CX4 and CX13(a). All isolates were methyl-red-negative. Based on the observed morphological and biochemical characteristics, the isolates were assigned to Enterobacter sp., Enterococcus faecalis and Bacillus subtilis. These findings provide a preliminary description of culturable gut bacteria from X. helleri. Further molecular identification, safety assessment and in vivo validation are required before any isolate can be considered suitable for probiotic application.

In vitro Suppression of Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi-induced Wilt in Pea Using Essential Oils: A Sustainable Approach

2026-07-24T07:01:51+00:00

Pea (Pisum sativum L.) is an important rabi pulse crop cultivated for its nutritional and economic value. Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. pisi, is a major soil-borne disease that can reduce pea productivity under favourable environmental conditions. The continued use of synthetic fungicides raises concerns related to environmental safety, soil health and crop quality, supporting the need for safer disease-management options. This study evaluated the in vitro antifungal efficacy of neem oil and peppermint oil against F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi. The pathogen was isolated from wilt-infected pea plants, identified using cultural and morphological features and confirmed through pathogenicity testing. The antifungal activity of the oils was assessed by the poisoned food technique in a Completely Randomised Design with seven treatments and five replications. Neem oil and peppermint oil were tested at 0.1, 0.2 and 0.5 per cent concentrations, and radial mycelial growth and percentage inhibition over the control were recorded. Both essential oils significantly reduced mycelial growth compared with the untreated control. Peppermint oil at 0.5 per cent showed the highest inhibition of mycelial growth, at 76.48 per cent, followed by neem oil at 0.5 per cent, at 73.13 per cent. These findings indicate that peppermint oil and neem oil have antifungal potential against F. oxysporum f. sp. pisi under laboratory conditions and warrant further validation under pot and field conditions.

Age-dependent Changes in Soil Quality of Sodic Fish Ponds: A Comparative Study

2026-07-24T11:47:57+00:00

Pond-bottom soil plays a fundamental role in regulating nutrient availability, water quality, and biological productivity in aquaculture systems. However, prolonged pond use may alter soil fertility, salinity, and sodicity, making age-related assessment essential for effective pond management. This study assessed the nutrient status of bottom soils in aquaculture ponds, including pH, organic carbon (OC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), electrical conductivity (EC), and exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP), to support the optimisation of fish production and scientific pond management at the College of Fisheries Science, Ayodhya, Uttar Pradesh, India. Following a Z-shaped sampling pattern, soil samples were collected from newly constructed, five-year-old, and ten-year-old ponds and analysed using standard laboratory techniques. Pond age significantly affected soil quality (p < 0.05). Soil pH decreased from 8.9 in the newly constructed ponds to 8.1 in the ten-year-old ponds, while EC declined from 2.56 to 2.15 dS m⁻¹ and ESP decreased from 38.59 to 13.37, indicating a marked reduction in soil sodicity. In contrast, the ten-year-old ponds showed increases in organic carbon from 0.21% to 0.32%, available nitrogen from 262 to 282 kg ha⁻¹, phosphorus from 10.73 to 12.63 kg ha⁻¹, and potassium from 281 to 313 kg ha⁻¹. These findings indicate that prolonged aquaculture practices may increase organic carbon and nutrient availability while reducing soil salinity and sodicity, thereby improving bottom-soil fertility. The improved soil quality observed in older ponds may provide more favourable conditions for sustainable fish production and effective pond management.

Principal Component Analysis of Yield and Yield-Contributing Traits in Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) Genotypes

2026-07-24T11:53:06+00:00

Principal component analysis was used to summarise variation among 36 okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench) genotypes evaluated in a randomised block design with two replications at the Department of Horticulture, College of Agriculture, Vasantrao Naik Marathwada Krishi Vidyapeeth, Parbhani. Nineteen traits related to growth, flowering, fruit, seed, yield, disease, and pests were recorded. The data were standardised before PCA and analysed using OPSTAT software. Four principal components together accounted for 87.62% of the total variation. The first component explained 51.50% of the variation and was associated mainly with fruit yield per plant, followed by the number of seeds per fruit, number of fruits per plant, fruit length, fruit diameter, number of leaves per plant, and 100-seed weight. The second component explained 24.91% and was strongly influenced by fruit and shoot borer incidence, together with fruit- and virus-related traits. The third and fourth components explained 6.30% and 4.90%, respectively, and represented variation in fruit, seed, yield, and biotic stress traits. The first three components jointly explained 82.71% of the variation. The score plot indicated broad phenotypic dispersion among the genotypes, with EC-329370, IC-42460, Arka Anamika, and Parbhani Kranti appearing relatively separated from the main group. These results indicate that a limited number of principal components can summarise the observed multivariate variation. The identified traits and comparatively distinct genotypes may be considered for further evaluation in okra improvement programmes.

Pathogenicity Assessment of Colletotrichum musae by Artificial Inoculation and Verification of Koch's Postulates in Banana Fruits

2026-07-25T08:08:59+00:00

Colletotrichum musae, the causal organism of banana anthracnose, causes one of the most destructive postharvest diseases of banana, resulting in significant losses in fruit quality, shelf life, and market value. The present study was conducted in the Department of Plant Pathology, Bihar Agricultural University (BAU), Sabour, to isolate and identify C. musae and confirm its pathogenicity through Koch's postulates. The pathogen was isolated on potato dextrose agar (PDA) medium from naturally infected banana fruit exhibiting typical anthracnose symptoms. It was identified as C. musae based on morphological and microscopic characteristics: greyish-white cottony colonies; hyaline, septate mycelia; single-celled, aseptate, hyaline conidiophores; and cylindrical, hyaline conidia containing oil globules. Pathogenicity was evaluated by artificially inoculating healthy, mature green banana fruits using the pinprick method. Typical anthracnose symptoms, characterised by dark-brown sunken lesions, developed within 5–7 days after inoculation, whereas the uninoculated control fruits remained symptomless. Disease severity increased from 19.98% at 1 day after inoculation (DAI) to 99.90% at 7 DAI, with an area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC) of 396.27. The pathogen was successfully re-isolated from the artificially infected fruits and exhibited characteristics similar to those of the original culture, confirming the pathogenicity of the morphologically identified isolate through Koch's postulates. These findings confirmed the pathogenicity of the morphologically identified Colletotrichum musae isolate and provide a basis for future postharvest disease-management studies.

A Simple Phenotypic Marker for Screening Pod Shattering in Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.)

2026-07-25T08:35:02+00:00

Pod shattering is a major domestication-related trait and one of the principal causes of pre-harvest yield losses in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.), particularly under hot and dry conditions. Rapid and reliable identification of shattering-resistant genotypes is essential for improving breeding efficiency. The present study evaluated a national core collection of 245 diverse cowpea genotypes over three consecutive years (2023–2025) to identify a simple phenotypic marker associated with pod-shattering resistance. Genotypes were screened using a modified Random Impact Method (RIM), and pod physical traits, including pod length, pod breadth, pod thickness, pod wall weight, seed-to-pod ratio, and dorsal suture morphology, were examined for their association with shattering response. A distinct and consistent morphological marker was identified in the dorsal suture of mature pods. Shattering-resistant genotypes exhibited a single, prominent dorsal ridge positioned above the dehiscence zone, whereas susceptible genotypes consistently displayed a two-ridged dorsal suture separated by a central depression that appeared to reduce tissue integrity and facilitate pod rupture under mechanical impact. The observed marker remained stable across years and environmental conditions, indicating its reliability as a rapid visual indicator of shattering resistance. The modified RIM provided a standardised, reproducible, and cost-effective approach for evaluating pod shattering while minimising environmental variation associated with field phenotyping. The identified dorsal ridge morphology offers a simple, non-destructive, and efficient phenotypic marker for large-scale germplasm screening and the selection of resistant genotypes. This marker can accelerate breeding for pod-shattering resistance, improve yield stability, and facilitate the development of climate-resilient cowpea cultivars adapted to drought-prone environments.

Morphological Characterization and Assessment of Phenotypic Variability among Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels Genotypes

2026-07-25T13:06:18+00:00

Syzygium cumini (L.) Skeels is an important indigenous fruit crop that possesses considerable morphological diversity, representing a valuable genetic resource for germplasm characterisation and crop improvement. The present investigation aimed to characterise morphological variability among 50 naturally occurring Syzygium cumini genotypes using standardised NBPGR Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) descriptors over two consecutive seasons (2023-24 and 2024-25). The novelty of this study lies in the comprehensive DUS-based evaluation of naturally occurring jamun germplasm, which provides standardised baseline information for reliable genotype characterisation, documentation and conservation. Significant variability was observed among the evaluated genotypes for all morphological traits. Trunk girth ranged from 1.34 to 3.21 m, while the leaf length-to-breadth ratio varied from 2.03 (JT-19) to 3.35 (JT-169). The inflorescence length-to-diameter ratio ranged from 1.74 (JT-21) to 2.78 (JT-1). Considerable variation was also recorded in growth habit, foliage density and bark colour, demonstrating broad phenotypic diversity within the evaluated germplasm. The evaluated genotypes exhibited consistent morphological expression across both experimental seasons, indicating the stability and reliability of the recorded DUS descriptors for genotype characterisation and diversity assessment. The documented phenotypic variability provides reliable baseline information for germplasm conservation, the identification of promising genotypes and future breeding programmes aimed at the genetic improvement of jamun.

Effect of EMS on Induction of Mutations in Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl. for Novel Plant Architecture

2026-07-25T13:54:11+00:00

Zamioculcas zamiifolia Engl. is a vegetatively propagated ornamental foliage plant with limited commercially available variation. This study evaluated ethyl methanesulphonate (EMS) treatments for inducing variability in rhizome-initiated mature leaflets under shade-net conditions at the University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru, during 2021–2022. Leaflets were exposed for 2 h to EMS concentrations of 0.06, 0.08, 0.10, 0.12, 0.14, or 0.16%, while untreated leaflets served as the control. Mortality, rhizome and root development, shoot-bud initiation, leaf formation, leaflet traits, plant height, rhizome diameter, chlorophyll content, and visible variants were assessed. The median lethal dose (LD₅₀) was recorded at 0.12% EMS. The untreated control showed the earliest rhizome formation (16.50 days after rhizome initiation [DAI]), root initiation (4.80 DAI), and shoot-bud initiation (62.50 DAI). It also produced the highest number of roots (4.90) and the greatest rhizome diameter (1.62 cm) at 120 DAI. Shoot-bud initiation was delayed as EMS concentration increased, reaching 149.50 DAI at 0.16% EMS. Two shoot buds were observed under the 0.10% treatment. Cotyledonary-like leaves, new leaves, and measurable leaflet and plant-height traits occurred only in the control. No visible variation in leaflet colour, variegation, or shape was recorded during the observation period. The findings indicate that the tested EMS concentrations suppressed growth and delayed development, while 0.12% represented the LD₅₀ under the experimental conditions.

Effect of Addition of Blueberry Powder on Physico-Chemical Changes in Shrikhand

2026-07-27T06:38:26+00:00

The present investigation evaluated the effect of incorporating blueberry powder on the physicochemical properties of shrikhand. Shrikhand was prepared by partially replacing chakka with blueberry powder at levels of 0, 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 per cent, corresponding to treatments T1–T6. The samples were analysed for moisture, fat, protein, total solids, ash, reducing sugar, pH and titratable acidity using standard analytical procedures. Increasing the level of blueberry powder caused significant (P < 0.05) changes in all measured parameters. Moisture content decreased from 39.62 per cent in the control to 39.32 per cent in T6, whereas total solids increased from 60.38 to 60.68 per cent. Fat and protein contents decreased from 8.68 to 8.46 per cent and from 9.76 to 9.62 per cent, respectively, indicating dilution of the dairy matrix by fruit solids. Ash content increased from 0.78 to 1.18 per cent, indicating a mineral contribution from blueberry powder. Reducing sugar content increased from 41.16 to 41.42 per cent, reflecting the addition of fruit-derived carbohydrates. The decline in pH from 4.48 to 4.17 was accompanied by an increase in titratable acidity from 0.83 to 1.11 per cent, indicating the acidifying effect of blueberry constituents. Overall, blueberry powder increased fruit-derived solids, minerals, sugars and acidity while slightly reducing moisture, fat and protein contents. Based on the measured physicochemical characteristics, an incorporation level of 9–12 per cent appeared suitable for developing value-added shrikhand with desirable compositional attributes.

Optimization of Lightweight, Sustainable Growing Media for Mizuna (Brassica rapa cv. Japonica) and Amaranthus (Amaranthus viridis) under Stimulated Space Stations Microclimate

2026-07-27T08:56:02+00:00

Long-duration space missions require reliable fresh-food production systems because the nutritional quality of stored foods may decline during extended storage. This study evaluated eight soilless substrate formulations comprising cocopeat, perlite, moss grass, and rice husk charcoal for the cultivation of mizuna (Brassica rapa cv. japonica) and green amaranth (Amaranthus viridis) under a simulated space-station microclimate. The growth chamber was maintained at 15–25 °C, 75–95% relative humidity, a photosynthetic photon flux density of 500–600 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹, and a 10 h light/14 h dark photoperiod. Nine treatments, including a soil control, were arranged in a randomised block design with three replications. Growth, yield, nutritional quality, substrate temperature and pH, and tray mass were assessed. Treatment T7, consisting of 50% cocopeat and 50% rice husk charcoal, recorded the highest reported values for vitamin C, calcium, phosphorus, crude fibre, and iron in amaranth. Mizuna fresh herbage yield was highest under T4 (30% moss grass + 30% perlite + 40% charcoal), whereas T8 (50% moss grass + 50% charcoal) generally showed the poorest performance. All soilless media reduced tray mass by more than 80% relative to soil. Overall, T7 provided a favourable balance of nutritional quality, near-neutral pH, root-zone temperature, and low substrate mass. Further validation under microgravity or partial-gravity conditions is required.

Graphical Abstract: Schematic representation of cocopeat–charcoal substrate (T7) supporting Mizuna and Amaranthus microgreens in a controlled ecological life support system (CELSS) module under a simulated space-station microclimate.

Effect of Fertigation on Growth, Yield and Quality of Acid Lime (Citrus aurantifolia Swingle) under North Gujarat Conditions

2026-07-27T09:15:45+00:00

A field experiment was conducted from 2020–21 to 2022–23 at the Horticultural Instructional Farm of Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Gujarat, to evaluate fertigation levels in mature acid lime cv. Kagzi lime. Four treatments were evaluated with five replications: 100% of the recommended fertiliser dose applied to the soil and 100%, 80%, or 60% of the recommended dose applied through fertigation. The full recommended dose was 900 g N, 750 g P, and 500 g K per tree annually. Fertigation treatments were applied in five scheduled splits during Hasta bahar. The pooled results showed significant treatment effects on plant spread, fruit dimensions, fruit weight, fruit number, yield, and most fruit-quality and soil parameters. Application of 100% of the recommended dose through fertigation recorded the greatest north–south and east–west plant spread, at 5.52 and 5.25 m, respectively. It also produced the greatest pooled fruit length of 4.25 cm, fruit diameter of 4.21 cm, fruit weight of 42.68 g, and fruit number of 1,287.83 per tree. The corresponding fruit yields were 54.93 kg tree⁻¹ and 15,215.33 kg ha⁻¹. This treatment recorded a juice content of 49.45%, total soluble solids of 7.51 °Brix, ascorbic acid content of 29.05 mg per 100 g pulp, and available P2O5 of 37.30 kg/ha. However, 80% RDF performed well or was statistically at par for some parameters. Under the conditions of this experiment, applying the full recommended fertiliser dose through five fertigation splits produced the best overall growth, yield, and fruit-quality performance.

Piriformospora indica Preserves Fruit Quality and Postharvest Shelf Life While Suppressing Tomato Leaf Curl Virus

2026-07-27T09:52:57+00:00

Tomato leaf curl virus (ToLCV) is one of the most destructive viral pathogens, limiting tomato productivity by impairing plant growth, fruit development, yield, and nutritional quality. Piriformospora indica is a beneficial root endophytic fungus known to enhance plant growth, yield, and tolerance to biotic and abiotic stresses in diverse crop species. This study examined the effects of pre- and post-colonisation by P. indica on tomato leaf curl disease, fruit productivity, nutritional quality, and shelf life following artificial inoculation with ToLCV. Pre-colonisation with P. indica significantly reduced disease severity by lowering the vulnerability index by 67.75%, whereas post-colonisation reduced it by 23.27% compared with virus-infected plants, and substantially improved fruit yield, locule development, and seed production. Virus infection significantly reduced yield and productivity, as well as fruit ascorbic acid, lycopene, β-carotene, total soluble solids, and shelf life. In contrast, P. indica colonisation significantly compensated for reductions in tomato fruit yield and productivity and restored quality attributes. Fruits from pre-colonised plants contained 18.72 mg 100 g⁻¹ fresh weight ascorbic acid, 4.31 mg 100 g⁻¹ lycopene, 0.69 mg 100 g⁻¹ β-carotene, and 4.48 °Brix soluble sugars, which were substantially higher than those of virus-inoculated plants. Furthermore, the shelf life of harvested fruits was extended from 6.8 to 10.4 days. Enhanced postharvest storage was associated with increased expression of the fruit shelf-life-associated gene SlFSR, indicating transcriptional regulation of postharvest longevity by the endophytic fungus. Overall, these findings indicate that P. indica mitigates ToLCV-induced disease severity, yield reduction, fruit-quality deterioration, and reduced fruit shelf life by modulating biochemical and fruit developmental processes. This highlights the potential of P. indica as a sustainable biological strategy for reducing disease severity and improving fruit yield, nutritional quality, and postharvest storage under ToLCV infection.

Assessing Natural Systems as A Means to Enhance Fish Production through Natural Farming Approaches

2026-07-27T10:02:05+00:00

The efficiency of aquaculture production systems is primarily influenced by water quality, optimal seed and feed inputs, and, critically, primary productivity, which contributes substantially to biomass yield and economic returns. To assess the level of adoption and the factors contributing to sustainable fisheries development, a baseline survey of 30 fish farmers (10 from each district) was first conducted. Based on the identified gaps, a multi-location trial was carried out under farmers’ field conditions from October 2024 to May 2025. Natural farming-based approaches involving natural-origin organic inputs—cow dung, vermiwash, and fermented slurry—were evaluated for their ability to enhance plankton production and fish growth in composite carp culture across three agro-climatic zones of Punjab (S.A.S. Nagar, Barnala, and Tarn Taran), northern India. Nine fish production units (FPUs), each covering 1 acre, were selected, with three in each district, to evaluate three treatments: T1 (cow dung at 200 kg/acre), T2 (vermiwash at 10 L/acre), and T3 (fermented slurry at 100 L/acre). The results showed that fermented slurry (T3) produced the highest plankton density, fish growth, and fish production (24.23 quintals/acre), followed by vermiwash (22.88 quintals/acre) and cow dung (19.47 quintals/acre). T3 also yielded the highest net profit and benefit–cost ratio (1.92). Vermiwash (T2) produced moderate improvements, whereas cow dung (T1) had the lowest comparative effect. The findings indicate that fermented slurry may be a cost-effective input for sustainably improving pond productivity, reducing feed costs, and increasing farm returns under heterogeneous agro-climatic conditions.

Redefining Schistosoma Epidemiology through Continued Coprological Surveys

2026-07-27T10:59:35+00:00

Bovine schistosomiasis is an important trematode infection that can affect cattle health and productivity in endemic regions. This study assessed the occurrence of Schistosoma infection in cattle and documented freshwater snail fauna in Degloor tehsil and adjoining areas of the Marathwada region, Maharashtra. A total of 600 cattle faecal samples and 40 nasal samples were collected from randomly selected villages located near or with access to water bodies. Faecal samples were examined by sedimentation technique, and eggs were identified morphologically. Snails were collected from ponds, rivers, percolation tanks, canals, rainwater bodies, and adjacent grazing areas and were identified using standard keys, with species confirmation obtained from the Zoological Survey of India, Kolkata.

Coprological examination showed the presence of Schistosoma indicum and Schistosoma spindale eggs in cattle faeces. The overall prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis was 36.83%. Species-wise prevalence was 25.33% for S. indicum and 11.50% for S. spindale. Examination of nasal samples showed 25.00% prevalence of nasal schistosomiasis associated with S. nasale. Age-wise prevalence of intestinal schistosomiasis did not differ markedly across age groups, whereas sex-wise prevalence was higher in females than males. Breed-wise results indicated variation among groups; however, findings for Holstein Friesian cattle should be interpreted cautiously because of the very small number of samples. The recorded snail fauna included Indoplanorbis exustus, Lymnaea luteola, Bulinus spp., and Bellamya bengalensis, although cercariae were not recovered from the collected snails. The findings indicate that bovine schistosomiasis is present in the study area and support the need for continued surveillance of cattle and freshwater snail populations.

Bio Efficacy of Phylloplane Bacteria Isolated from Selected Medicinal Plants against Root Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne incognita

2026-07-27T12:38:48+00:00

The present study evaluated the bio-efficacy of phylloplane bacteria isolated from selected medicinal plants against the root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, under in vitro conditions. Fresh leaves of Houttuynia cordata, Bacopa monnieri and Paederia foetida were collected from different locations of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat, and bacteria were isolated by the leaf-wash method using nutrient agar. A total of thirty bacterial isolates were obtained, comprising fifteen isolates from H. cordata, ten from B. monnieri and five from P. foetida. Gram staining indicated that five isolates were Gram-positive, while the remaining twenty-five isolates were Gram-negative. Culture filtrates of all isolates were tested against freshly hatched second-stage juveniles of M. incognita at 25, 50, 75 and 100% concentrations and at 12, 24, 48 and 72 hours of exposure. Juvenile mortality varied among isolates and generally increased with increasing filtrate concentration and exposure period. Based on treatment mean mortality, five isolates were selected as comparatively effective: M1, VA1, B8, M15 and M8, with mean mortalities of 56.10, 54.66, 52.99, 52.99 and 50.74%, respectively. At 72 hours, several isolates produced high juvenile mortality at higher concentrations. The LC₅₀ values of the selected isolates ranged from 19.35-28.72%. Molecular characterization using 16S rRNA sequencing identified B8 as Bacillus subtilis, M15 as Bacillus megaterium, M8 as Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, M1 as Pantoea agglomerans and VA1 as Enterobacter cloacae. The findings indicate that phylloplane bacteria associated with medicinal plants possess nematicidal potential and may be further evaluated as biological agents for the management of M. incognita.

Impact of Foliar Micronutrient Application on Fruit Set and Fruit Retention in Guava (Psidium guajava L.) Cv. Allahabad Safeda

2026-07-28T05:53:24+00:00

Foliar micronutrient application may improve reproductive and yield-related performance in high-density guava orchards. This investigation evaluated graded foliar concentrations of zinc and boron in guava (Psidium guajava L.) cv. Allahabad Safeda during 2021–22 at the Horticultural Research Farm, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. The experiment was arranged in a randomised block design with eleven treatments and three replications under a meadow-orchard system. Treatments comprised a water-sprayed control and zinc or boron at 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8% and 1.0%. Foliar sprays were applied before flowering, after flowering and after fruit set. The treatments significantly affected flowering, fruit number, fruit weight and yield. Treatment T10 (1.0% boron) recorded 31.33 days from flowering to fruit set, 178.58 flowers per plant, 162.65 fruits per plant, an average fruit weight of 115.47 g, a fruit yield of 18.67 kg per tree and a total fruit yield of 93.46 t/ha. Treatments T5 (1.0% zinc) and T9 (0.8% boron) showed closely comparable performance for several recorded traits. The results indicate that foliar application of 1.0% boron was the most effective treatment among those tested for improving reproductive and yield-related traits under the study conditions. However, interpretation should remain limited to the single season and location evaluated and to the stated agro-climatic conditions of Prayagraj.

Partial Characterization of the Genomic Organization of the GnIH Gene in Zebrafish Using Genome Walking

2026-07-28T06:03:29+00:00

The gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) gene is an important component of the reproductive neuroendocrine system in vertebrates, and its genomic characterisation can provide useful information for comparative reproductive biology. The present study aimed to partially elucidate the genomic organisation of the GnIH gene in zebrafish (Danio rerio) using a PCR-based genome-walking approach. Adult zebrafish of the AB strain were maintained under controlled laboratory conditions with a 14-hour light:10-hour dark cycle, a water pH of 7.5, and a temperature of 28.5 °C. Genomic DNA was isolated from fin tissue and used to construct adaptor-ligated genomic DNA libraries after restriction digestion with DraI, EcoRV, PvuII, and StuI. Gene-specific primers designed from the known exon 2 region were used in primary and nested PCR reactions with adaptor-specific primers to amplify unknown upstream genomic regions. The amplified fragments were sequenced bidirectionally, enabling the partial identification of intron 1 of the zebrafish GnIH gene. The resulting sequence information provides a useful basis for further characterisation of exon-intron boundaries and regulatory regions associated with the GnIH locus. This study demonstrates the applicability of PCR-based genome walking for retrieving unknown genomic regions adjacent to known GnIH sequences in zebrafish.

Comparative Evaluation of Nutrient Management Strategies for Enhancing Productivity, Nutrient Uptake, Soil Fertility and Profitability of Maize (Zea mays L.) in Alfisols

2026-07-28T06:11:51+00:00

Aims: The study aims to compare the effects of different nutrient management strategies on maize productivity, nutrient uptake, soil fertility and profitability in Alfisols.

Study Design: The field experiment was conducted in a randomised block design with seven nutrient management treatments and three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Station, Tornala, Professor Jayashankar Telangana Agricultural University, Siddipet district, Telangana, India, during Kharif 2019.

Methodology: Maize hybrid DHM-117 was grown under seven nutrient management treatments: the recommended dose of fertiliser with farmyard manure, soil-test-based fertilisation, farmers’ practice, organic farming, integrated nutrient management, natural farming and an unfertilised control. Growth parameters, yield attributes, grain and stover yields, soil pH, electrical conductivity, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, plant nutrient concentrations, nutrient uptake and economic returns were recorded and analysed using analysis of variance.

Results: Integrated nutrient management produced the highest grain yield (6963 kg ha⁻¹) and stover yield (8945 kg ha⁻¹), together with superior cob weight, grain weight per cob and 100-grain weight compared with the other treatments. It also recorded the highest soil organic carbon (0.63%), available phosphorus (25.91 kg ha⁻¹), and total uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (196.6, 45.5 and 150.9 kg ha⁻¹, respectively), and achieved the highest benefit–cost ratio (2.00). Soil-test-based fertilisation showed comparable yield performance and favourable nutrient status, whereas organic and natural farming improved selected soil-quality indicators but resulted in lower yields and benefit–cost ratios during the study period.

Conclusion: Under the conditions of this study, integrated nutrient management was the most effective and balanced strategy for enhancing maize yield, nutrient uptake, soil fertility and profitability in Alfisols, while soil-test-based fertilisation emerged as a viable alternative.

Studies on Genetic Variability in Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea L.) Germplasm Collections

2026-07-28T06:18:08+00:00

Barnyard millet (Echinochloa frumentacea L.) is a short-duration minor cereal valued for its adaptability to marginal environments and nutritional attributes. The present investigation, entitled “Genetic Variability in Barnyard Millet (Echinochloa frumentacea L.) Germplasm”, was conducted during Kharif 2025 at the Student Instruction Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India. The study assessed the nature and magnitude of genetic variability, character associations, direct and indirect effects, genetic divergence and principal component profiles among 42 barnyard millet genotypes, comprising 39 germplasm accessions and three checks (VL207, VL172 and PRJ1). The experimental material was evaluated in a randomised block design with three replications. Observations were recorded for six qualitative morphological traits and 15 quantitative traits, including yield, yield-related attributes, fodder biomass and nutritional components. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was marginally higher than the genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for most traits, indicating some environmental influence on trait expression. High broad-sense heritability (H²), coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean (GAM), was recorded for stay dry weight (H² = 97.40%, GAM = 34.59%), seed yield per plant (H² = 96.80%, GAM = 25.48%) and raceme length (H² = 96.00%, GAM = 21.12%). These results indicate the predominance of additive gene action and suggest that these traits can be effectively improved through phenotypic selection. Conversely, protein content showed low heritability and low genetic advance (H² = 2.20%, GAM = 0.58%), indicating the influence of non-additive gene action and environmental effects.

Nutritional and Physico-Chemical Characterization of Underutilized Fruits from Prayagraj District, Uttar Pradesh, India

2026-07-28T06:27:30+00:00

Underutilised fruits represent an insufficiently documented source of nutritional and functional value, particularly in the Gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh. This study evaluated the nutritional composition, physicochemical properties, bioactive compounds, and antimicrobial activity of six indigenous fruit species collected from Prayagraj district: Amla (Emblica officinalis), Bael (Aegle marmelos), Ber (Ziziphus mauritiana), Imli (Tamarindus indica), Jamun (Syzygium cumini), and Karonda (Carissa carandas). Standard AOAC methods were used for proximate analysis, physicochemical characterisation, and bioactive-compound estimation. Significant interspecific variation (p ≤ 0.05) was observed across the measured parameters. Amla had the highest moisture content (88.17%), whereas Karonda had the highest fat (3.73%) and carbohydrate (45.49%) contents. Imli had high fibre content (9.90%) and titratable acidity (7.96%). Bael had high total soluble solids (36.0 °Brix), total sugars (17.17%), and total phenolic content (182.06 mg GAE/g). Jamun had the highest anthocyanin content (106.68 mg/g). DPPH radical-scavenging activity was highest in Bael (86.75%), followed by Amla (78.16%). In the antimicrobial assays, Bael produced the largest inhibition zones against Escherichia coli (20.0 mm) and Salmonella typhi (25.33 mm). Antinutritional factors were generally low; Karonda had the lowest tannin content (0.77 mg/100 g), whereas Ber had the highest phytate content (69.20 mg/100 g). These findings indicate compositional differences among the selected fruits and provide baseline information for their conservation, cultivation, and potential use in diversified food products.

Assessment of Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance for Yield and Yield-contributing Traits in Bread Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

2026-07-28T11:18:11+00:00

Genetic variability is the foundation of effective selection and crop improvement in wheat breeding programmes. Therefore, the present investigation was conducted during the Rabi season of 2023–24 at the Crop Research Centre, Jigyasa University, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, to evaluate genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for yield and yield-contributing traits in bread wheat (Triticum aestivum L.). Thirty wheat genotypes were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications. Observations were recorded for fifteen quantitative characters, including phenological traits, plant height, flag leaf area, productive tillers per plant, spike traits, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight and grain yield per plant. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for plant height, flag leaf area, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, grain filling period, days to maturity and days to 50% heading, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability for these traits. The phenotypic coefficient of variation was slightly higher than the corresponding genotypic coefficient of variation for all characters, suggesting a limited influence of environmental factors on trait expression. High heritability estimates were observed for plant height, flag leaf area, grains per spike, 1000-grain weight, spike weight per plant and grain yield per plant. Among these, plant height and flag leaf area also exhibited comparatively higher genetic advance as percent of mean, indicating their potential for effective improvement through selection. The findings suggest that these traits may serve as reliable selection criteria for developing high-yielding bread wheat genotypes under the agro-climatic conditions of the study area.

Comparative Abundance and Diversity of Insect Pests in Sprayed and Unsprayed Groundnut Ecosystems of Adilabad, Northern Telangana, India

2026-07-28T11:31:26+00:00

Aim: The study aims to compare the abundance and diversity of insect pests in sprayed and unsprayed groundnut ecosystems and to assess the impact of insecticidal interventions on pest community structure in Northern Telangana.

Study Design: Field-based comparative ecological study.

Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Research Station, Adilabad, Northern Telangana Zone, Telangana, India, during the Rabi season of 2025–2026.

Methodology: Insect pest diversity and abundance were assessed in sprayed and unsprayed groundnut ecosystems using yellow pan traps, yellow sticky traps, sweep-net sampling and visual observations at fortnightly intervals. Collected specimens were identified up to the family level and community structure was analysed using standard ecological diversity indices including Shannon–Wiener diversity (H′), Simpson’s diversity, Pielou’s evenness (J′), Berger–Parker dominance and Hill’s numbers.

Results: A total of 21,508 and 19,002 insect pest individuals belonging to 32 families and six orders were recorded from the unsprayed and sprayed ecosystems, respectively. Hemiptera was the dominant order, while Aleyrodidae and Thripidae were the most abundant families in both ecosystems. Diversity and evenness indices were marginally higher in the unsprayed ecosystem, whereas the sprayed ecosystem exhibited greater dominance of a few pest taxa.

Conclusion: The sprayed ecosystem had lower overall pest abundance and greater dominance of a few taxa, whereas the unsprayed groundnut ecosystem maintained a comparatively more diverse and evenly distributed insect pest community.

Management of Sugarcane Pokkah Boeng Disease through Fungicides, Bioagents, and Integrated Micronutrient-based Approaches in Field Conditions

2026-07-28T12:57:57+00:00

Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is an important agro-industrial crop of tropical and subtropical regions. This field study, conducted at the Sugarcane Research Institute, Dr Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa, Bihar, during 2022–2023, evaluated fungicides, bioagents, and an integrated treatment against pokkah boeng caused by Fusarium proliferatum using one-bud setts. Treatments differed significantly in germination, disease incidence, sett mortality, cane yield, and juice-quality traits. Among the individual fungicides, thiophanate-methyl 70 WP at 1 g/L performed best, recording 68.74% germination, 5.97% disease incidence, 5.96% sett mortality, and a yield of 80.82 t/ha, with 20.23% Brix, 18.28% sucrose, and 90.36% purity. The integrated treatment of carbendazim 50 WP at 0.5 g/L + urea at 0.5 g/L + ZnSO₄ at 0.5 g/L + FeSO₄ at 0.5 g/L + fipronil (5 SC) at 0.5 mL/L gave the best overall performance, with 70.96% germination, 5.07% disease incidence, 4.67% sett mortality, and 81.31 t/ha yield. It also produced the highest juice-quality values: 22.93% Brix, 20.82% sucrose, and 90.79% purity. The untreated control recorded 49.67% germination, 21.87% disease incidence, and 49.72 t/ha yield. Relative to the control, the integrated treatment increased germination by 30.00% and yield by 38.85%, while reducing disease incidence by 77.86% and sett mortality by 77.33%.

Radiographic and Ultrasonographic Findings in Dogs with Renal Space Occupying Lesion

2026-07-28T13:31:56+00:00

Renal space-occupying lesions may be difficult to characterise clinically because affected dogs can present with nonspecific signs and marked variation in lesion size and appearance. This study evaluated the diagnostic findings obtained through abdominal radiography and ultrasonography in eight dogs with renal space-occupying lesions. Four dogs were diagnosed with hydronephrosis, while four had renal masses considered to be tumorous. Right lateral and ventrodorsal abdominal radiographs were obtained where feasible, and intravenous pyelography was performed in three dogs with suspected ureteral abnormalities. Ultrasonographic examination assessed the organ of origin, lesion dimensions, echotexture, vascularity, adjacent organs, and evidence of metastasis. Diagnoses were correlated with clinical, haematobiochemical, cytological, histopathological, surgical, and intraoperative findings where available. Radiography identified abdominal soft-tissue masses and displacement of adjacent intestinal loops but provided limited information for differentiating hydronephrosis from renal tumours. Ultrasonography demonstrated dilatation of the renal pelvis and ureter, loss of corticomedullary architecture in hydronephrotic kidneys, and heterogeneous echotexture and variable vascularity in renal masses. Surgical treatment was undertaken in four dogs using nephrectomy or nephroureterectomy according to the lesion and associated ureteral involvement. The findings indicate that radiography is useful for identifying the location and mass effect of renal lesions, whereas ultrasonography provides additional information concerning internal architecture, vascularity, ureteral involvement, and adjacent abdominal structures. Larger prospective studies with uniform confirmatory testing are required to determine comparative diagnostic performance.

Haemagglutination-based Detection of Canine Parvovirus in Faecal Samples from Dogs and Jackals

2026-07-28T13:48:59+00:00

Canine parvovirus (CPV) is a highly contagious pathogen of domestic and wild canids and is associated with acute enteritis, dehydration, and substantial morbidity in young animals. This study evaluated faecal samples from dogs and jackals for CPV-compatible haemagglutinating activity using the haemagglutination (HA) test. Rectal swabs from 111 diarrhoeic dogs and 10 jackal scat samples were processed as 10% faecal suspensions. Twofold serial dilutions of each sample were tested in U-bottom microtitre plates using a 2% suspension of porcine erythrocytes, and the highest dilution showing a mat or lattice pattern was recorded as the HA titre. Among the dog samples, 52 of 111 (46.84%) were HA-positive, with titres ranging from 1:2 to 1:2048. The most frequent titre was 1:4, observed in 10 samples, whereas the highest titre of 1:2048 occurred in two female Labrador Retrievers. Among the jackal samples, 9 of 10 (90%) were HA-positive, with titres ranging from 1:4 to 1:64; four samples had a titre of 1:16. These findings demonstrate CPV-compatible haemagglutinating activity in the tested domestic dog and jackal samples. However, HA does not confirm viral identity, genotype, infectivity, or transmission between host species. Molecular confirmation, sequencing, and broader epidemiological sampling are therefore required before population-level or interspecies transmission conclusions can be drawn.

Biological Studies of Fruit Borer Helicoverpa armigera (Hub.) on Tomato Crops under Laboratory Conditions

2026-07-29T05:02:24+00:00

A laboratory study was conducted during the Rabi season of 2024–25 at Kamla Nehru Institute of Physical and Social Sciences, Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh, to examine the biology and morphometric characteristics of the tomato fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera. Fully grown larvae collected from unsprayed fields were reared individually on fresh tomato leaves or fruits, and observations were recorded on developmental duration, adult longevity, reproduction, sex ratio, and body measurements. The insect completed its life cycle through the egg, six larval instars, pupal, and adult stages. The total life-cycle duration ranged from 35 to 40 days, with a mean of 37.14 ± 2.60 days. The larval stage was the longest developmental phase, lasting 22.94 ± 2.60 days, while the pupal period averaged 12.53 ± 1.75 days. Adult longevity averaged 7.36 ± 1.05 days in males and 10.49 ± 1.90 days in females. The pre-oviposition and oviposition periods averaged 2.8 ± 0.75 and 8.00 ± 0.80 days, respectively. Mean fecundity was 541.6 ± 155.2 eggs per female, and the observed male-to-female sex ratio was approximately 1:1. Morphometric observations showed progressive increases in larval size from the first to the sixth instar. Adult females were larger and lived longer than males. These findings provide baseline information on the developmental and reproductive biology of H. armigera under the laboratory conditions of Sultanpur.

Assessment of Genetic Association Using Correlation and Path Analysis in Cowpea [Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.]

2026-07-29T12:56:26+00:00

Cowpea green pod yield is a complex trait influenced by several interrelated growth, flowering, pod, and seed characteristics. The present study assessed genetic associations among green pod yield and its component traits through correlation and path coefficient analyses. Nineteen cowpea genotypes were evaluated during the kharif season of 2025 at the School of Agricultural Sciences, Jaipur National University, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India, using a randomised complete block design with three replications. Observations were recorded for fourteen quantitative traits. Genotypic and phenotypic correlation analyses showed that green pod yield per plant was positively associated with the number of primary branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length, green pod weight, 100-seed weight, number of seeds per pod, and green pod yield per plot. Days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, and days to first pod emergence were negatively associated with green pod yield per plant. At the genotypic level, green pod yield per plot, pod length, number of pods per plant, plant height, and days to first flowering showed positive direct effects. At the phenotypic level, green pod weight, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, green pod yield per plot, and number of pods per plant had notable positive direct effects. These findings indicate that selection combining earliness with favourable pod number, pod size, pod weight, and seed number may support improvement of green pod yield in cowpea under the study conditions.

Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Attributing Traits in Hybrid Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

2026-07-30T10:33:52+00:00

Background: Yield improvement in hybrid rice depends on identifying component traits that are reliably associated with productivity.

Aims: This study aimed to determine the nature and magnitude of genotypic associations and to assess the direct and indirect effects of yield-attributing traits on single-plant yield in rice.

Study Design: The experimental material comprised 39 F₁ hybrids, three CMS lines (evaluated through their respective maintainer lines), 13 restorer lines, and four checks. The hybrids were developed during Kharif 2025 using a Line × Tester mating design and evaluated in a Randomised Block Design with three replications.

Place and Duration of Study: The hybrids were developed during Kharif 2025 and evaluated during Rabi 2025–2026 at the experimental farm of ICAR–Indian Institute of Rice Research, Hyderabad.

Methodology: Observations were recorded for eight traits: days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of productive tillers, panicle length (cm), number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility (%), thousand-grain weight (g), and single-plant yield (g).

Results: Among the traits studied, the number of productive tillers exhibited the highest positive correlation with single-plant yield (r = 0.72, P < 0.01), followed by plant height (r = 0.45, P < 0.01), panicle length (r = 0.34, P < 0.01), and days to 50% flowering (r = 0.29, P < 0.05). Path coefficient analysis revealed positive direct effects on single-plant yield through the number of productive tillers (0.66987), panicle length (0.14114), number of filled grains per panicle (0.13347), and plant height (0.09584), indicating their contribution to yield improvement.

Conclusion: Therefore, prioritising the number of productive tillers, panicle length, and number of filled grains per panicle as key selection criteria could facilitate the development of high-yielding hybrid rice cultivars and contribute to sustainable improvements in rice productivity.

Culturable Rhizosphere Fungal Diversity in Healthy and Yellow Leaf Disease Affected Arecanut Palms

2026-07-30T12:03:40+00:00

Yellow leaf disease (YLD) is a destructive disease of arecanut (Areca catechu L.) that is associated with progressive yellowing, root deterioration, reduced nut production, and palm decline. This study compared culturable rhizosphere fungal populations in healthy and YLD-affected arecanut gardens and characterised the isolates using morphological and molecular methods. Twenty-five rhizosphere soil samples were processed using serial dilution plating on rose bengal agar. Fungal colonies were purified on potato dextrose agar, and genomic DNA was extracted. The internal transcribed spacer region was amplified using ITS-1 and ITS-4 primers, sequenced, and analysed through BLAST searches against the NCBI nucleotide database. Healthy rhizosphere soils contained higher populations of beneficial microorganisms than disease-affected soils. Trichoderma species were predominant, particularly T. asperellum and T. harzianum, while Fusarium, Talaromyces, Gibberella, and Diaporthe taxa were also identified. The abundance of Trichoderma isolates in healthy soils was consistent with their recognised associations with root development, nutrient mobilisation, water uptake, and suppression of soil-borne pathogens. The study demonstrates an association between palm health and the composition of culturable rhizosphere fungi and provides a basis for further functional and culture-independent investigations of the arecanut rhizosphere.

Surgical Stabilization of Comminuted Femoral Fracture Using Gentamicin Infused Hydroxyapatite Graft Combined with Locking Compression Plate-rod in Canines: A Preliminary Clinical Case Series

2026-07-30T12:20:43+00:00

Background: Comminuted femoral fractures present substantial mechanical and biological challenges because extensive fragmentation may compromise local vascularity and create bone defects.

Aims: This preliminary clinical case series evaluated a gentamicin-infused hydroxyapatite graft combined with a locking compression plate–rod construct for the management of comminuted diaphyseal femoral fractures in dogs.

Place and Duration of Study: The study included dogs with femoral fractures presented to the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, over a one-year period.

Methodology: Six dogs aged 5 months to 15 years (mean, 53.9 ± 66.96 months) and weighing 8–25 kg (mean, 13.83 ± 6.24 kg) with comminuted diaphyseal femoral fractures were enrolled. Injuries were predominantly caused by motor vehicle accidents (66.67%) and falls from height (33.33%). The fractures were classified using the AO/ASIF system as closed, complete mid- or distal-diaphyseal fractures. All fractures were repaired using 2.7 mm or 3.5 mm locking compression plates combined with intramedullary pins occupying approximately 40% of the medullary canal. A gentamicin-infused hydroxyapatite graft was implanted to fill bone defects associated with comminution and to provide local antibiotic delivery and an osteoconductive scaffold. Postoperative evaluation included clinical assessments of posture, gait, lameness, and functional outcome, together with serial radiographic evaluations on days 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90.

Results: All dogs showed rapid functional improvement, with lameness improving from Grade V preoperatively to Grade I by day 30 and remaining at Grade I through day 90. Serial radiographs demonstrated progressive callus formation, graft integration, satisfactory alignment, and stable implant positioning throughout the follow-up period in most cases. No major complications, such as implant failure, malalignment, or infection, were observed.

Conclusion: The combination of a locking compression plate–rod construct with a gentamicin-infused hydroxyapatite bone graft was associated with effective mechanical stabilisation and a favourable biological environment for the healing of comminuted femoral fractures in dogs, together with rapid functional recovery and consistent radiographic evidence of fracture union.

Effect of Different Leaf Blotch Disease Management Treatments on Curcumin Content and Rhizome Quality of Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)

2026-07-30T13:03:40+00:00

Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) is an economically important spice crop valued for its principal bioactive compound, curcumin, which possesses significant medicinal and industrial importance. However, leaf blotch disease caused by Taphrina maculans adversely affects plant health, leading to reduced rhizome yield and quality. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of leaf blotch disease management on curcumin content in turmeric rhizomes. A field experiment comprising seven treatments arranged in a completely randomised design (CRD) with three replications was conducted during the kharif season of 2023–24 at the AICRP on Spices, Asond Block, Coastal Experiment Station (CES), Wakawali, Maharashtra. Rhizome samples collected from each treatment at harvest were analysed for curcumin content in the Department of Soil Science using the modified spectrophotometric method of Sadasivam and Manickam (1992). The treatments differed significantly in curcumin content. Among the treatments evaluated, foliar application of Hexaconazole 5% EC and Tebuconazole 25.9% EC recorded the highest curcumin content (3.96% and 3.82%, respectively), indicating their superior efficacy in maintaining rhizome quality under leaf blotch disease conditions. Trichoderma spp. treatments also maintained higher curcumin content than the untreated control, although their effectiveness was comparatively lower than that of the fungicidal treatments. The findings indicate that effective management of leaf blotch disease not only suppresses disease severity but also maintains curcumin accumulation in turmeric rhizomes, thereby improving rhizome quality and market value.

Microplastics in Indian Freshwater Systems: Current Status and Future Research Needs

2026-07-18T12:41:45+00:00

Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as critical environmental issue affecting aquatic ecosystems worldwide. Freshwater systems have received less research attention in the past but have been identified as significant sources and alteration points for MP. The mandate of this review is to bring together the existing information about source, occurrence, distribution, characterization, biological and ecological effects and mitigation measures related to MPs in Indian freshwater environments. Land-based sources such as wastewater effluents, urban runoff, industrial effluents, agricultural activities, and the breakdown of larger plastic waste are main sources of MPs. The prevalence of contamination of river, lake and riverbed sediments and freshwater biota, commonly in the form of micro and macro fibres, is reported from all over the world. Biological and ecological effects encompass ingestion at different levels, physiological stress responses, feeding behaviour changes and possible ecosystem level disturbances. The increasing evidence suggests that consumption of freshwater fish and drinking water may be sources of exposure to humans, which may be of concern for food safety and public health. Microplastics are also a pathway for toxic chemicals and microbial communities, which further contributes to environmental and toxicological hazards. In India, MP contamination has been reported from several freshwater ecosystems, including the Ganga, Yamuna, Gomti, Saryu, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Cauvery, Netravathi, Periyar, and Vembanad Lake. MPs have been detected in water, sediments, and freshwater fishes, with fibres and fragments being the dominant particle types and polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), and polystyrene (PS) identified as the predominant polymers. The available evidence indicates increasing contamination in highly urbanized and industrialized river stretches, highlighting the urgent need for harmonized monitoring protocols and effective mitigation strategies in Indian freshwater ecosystems. The successful implementation of mitigation measures needs a coordinated approach that involves source reduction, advanced wastewater treatment, implementation of circular economy, policy enforcement, and public participation.

Natural Antisense Transcripts in Human Gene Regulation and Disease: A Critical Appraisal of Mechanisms and Therapeutic Prospects

2026-07-21T10:48:54+00:00

Natural antisense transcripts (NATs) are RNA molecules transcribed from the DNA strand opposite a protein-coding or non-coding gene, and they constitute one of the most pervasive yet mechanistically heterogeneous classes of the mammalian non-coding transcriptome. Since large-scale transcriptomic surveys demonstrated that a majority of transcriptional units in the human and mouse genomes are subject to antisense transcription, NATs have been implicated in transcriptional interference, chromatin remodelling through RNA:DNA triplex formation, microRNA sponging, modulation of mRNA stability, and direct control of translation initiation. This review critically synthesises the molecular evidence linking NATs to neurodegenerative, oncological and cardiovascular disease, with particular attention to BACE1-AS in Alzheimer's disease, HOTAIR in epithelial malignancies, and CDKN2B-AS1 (ANRIL) in atherosclerosis. Rather than treating this literature as a uniformly supportive body of evidence, the review foregrounds points of genuine scientific contention, including the divergence between cell-culture knockdown data and in vivo knockout phenotypes for HOTAIR, and the persistent difficulty of distinguishing cis-acting transcriptional interference from trans-acting RNA-mediated regulation. The therapeutic section evaluates antisense oligonucleotide strategies (AntagoNATs) and SINEUP-based translational enhancers as emerging modalities capable of achieving locus-specific, reversible upregulation of haploinsufficient genes, contrasting this mechanism with the predominantly inhibitory pharmacology of conventional oligonucleotide therapeutics. Methodological weaknesses recurring across the primary literature are assessed, including reliance on transformed cell lines, inconsistent knockdown efficiencies, sparse replication across independent laboratories, and limited attention to species-specific conservation of NAT sequences. The review concludes that while the mechanistic diversity of NAT-mediated regulation is now well established at the level of individual case studies, the field lacks generalisable rules predicting when a given antisense transcript will act in cis versus trans, and clinical translation remains constrained by delivery, tissue specificity and long-term safety considerations. Priorities for future research are identified, including standardised functional validation pipelines, comparative genomic conservation analyses, and controlled clinical evaluation of AntagoNAT and SINEUP platforms beyond monogenic haploinsufficiency disorders.

Acclimatization Strategies for Tissue Cultured Fruit Crops: A Review

2026-07-23T13:23:01+00:00

Effective acclimatization determines whether tissue-cultured fruit crop plantlets can survive the transition from controlled culture conditions to nursery and field environments. Plantlets developed in vitro commonly possess thin cuticles, poorly regulated stomata, weak stems, limited photosynthetic competence and underdeveloped root systems, making them vulnerable to water loss, transplant shock and microbial exposure. This review synthesises the principal in vitro and ex vitro strategies used to improve plantlet survival and establishment. Pre-transfer approaches include gradual sucrose reduction, improved vessel ventilation, light acclimation, carbon dioxide enrichment, photoautotrophic or photomixotrophic culture, growth retardants, storage-organ formation and mechanical conditioning. These practices can improve photosynthetic capacity, structural strength and stress tolerance before transplantation. Post-transfer management involves the selection of suitable potting substrates, regulation of humidity and light, judicious fungicide use, balanced nutrition, growth promoters, antitranspirants, ex vitro rooting, biohardening and hydroponic cultivation. Collectively, these interventions support root development, water balance, nutrient acquisition and adaptation to non-sterile conditions. The reviewed evidence indicates that acclimatization responses vary among crops and genotypes and are strongly influenced by culture conditions, substrate properties and environmental management. Therefore, commercially useful protocols should integrate compatible physiological, environmental and microbial interventions rather than rely on a single treatment. Crop-specific, cost-effective and sustainable hardening systems are essential for improving the reliability and scalability of tissue-culture-based fruit crop propagation.

Hologenomic Physiology of Livestock: Critical Integration of Gut Physiological Parameters, Neuroendocrine Signalling, and Immune Crosstalk in the Host–microbiome Unit

2026-07-28T11:24:48+00:00

The hologenome concept frames the host animal and its resident microbial communities as an integrated physiological and evolutionary unit, but its practical value in livestock depends on careful separation of demonstrated species-specific evidence from extrapolated mechanism. This critical narrative review synthesises evidence on host-microbiome-endocrine crosstalk in cattle, pigs and poultry, integrating gut physiological parameters, neuroendocrine signalling and immune regulation within a hologenomic framework. Literature was selected from accessible peer-reviewed sources and verified bibliographic records, with emphasis on studies relevant to livestock physiology, production stressors and microbial metabolites. Three convergent bodies of evidence are examined: the genetic architecture linking host genome and microbiome composition, expressed through microbiability and holobiability; neuroendocrine pathways, including hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, vagal afferent signalling and enteroendocrine hormone release; and immunological mediators, particularly short-chain fatty acids and tryptophan-derived metabolites, that couple microbial metabolism to mucosal and systemic immune tone. The evidence indicates that host genetic effects on the microbiome are generally modest, taxon-specific and best quantified in the bovine rumen. Associations between weaning, transport or heat load and concurrent shifts in microbial composition, barrier integrity and inflammatory markers are comparatively consistent, but causal inference remains strongest in limited livestock models, especially germ-free or infusion studies in pigs. Mechanistic detail on enteroendocrine, vagal and immunometabolic signalling remains disproportionately derived from rodent and human models. The review identifies methodological heterogeneity, cross-sectional design, taxonomic rather than functional profiling, and uneven species coverage as recurring constraints. Priorities include longitudinal multi-omic studies in defined production systems, direct livestock validation of receptor and vagal pathways, dose-response trials of metabolite-based interventions, and breeding-relevant quantification of microbiability for welfare and resilience traits. The findings support cautious, mechanism-informed development of microbiome-informed livestock management and selection strategies while underscoring the need for direct confirmation in target species.