Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Effect of Nano Boron and Conventional Boron Sources on Growth, Yield and Leaf Boron Content of Tomato cv. Anand Roma

P. B. Goswami — 2025-09-25

Boron is an essential element which is involved in the uptake of water and metabolism. Several sources of boron are available for agricultural use, including borax, boric acid, and advanced formulations such as nano-boron. The study aims to explore the influence of nano boron and different sources of boron on growth, yield and boron status in leaf of tomato cv. Anand roma. The field experiment was conducted during the Kharif-rabi season of 2023-24 and 2024-25 at Horticulture Research Farm, B. A. College of Agriculture, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat. The experiment was laid out in a Randomised Block Design with three replications. The data obtained from various observations were tabulated and subjected to statistical analysis using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The experiment was comprised of nine treatments viz., T₁: Absolute control, T₂: Foliar spray of borax @ 0.2 %, T₃: Foliar spray of boric acid @ 0.2 %, T₄: Foliar spray of nano boron @ 100 ppm, T₅: Foliar spray of nano boron @ 200 ppm, T₆: Foliar spray of nano boron @ 300 ppm, T₇: Foliar spray of nano boron @ 400 ppm, T₈: Soil application of 1 kg boron through borax, T₉: Soil application of 1 kg boron through boric acid. The foliar spray was done at 40, 55 and 70 DATP. The higher value of Plant height (109.16 and 117.93 cm) at 65 and 80 DATP, respectively, equatorial diameter (4.83 cm) and polar diameter of fruit (7.71 cm), no. of fruits per plant (33.76), average fruit weight (85.14 g), fruit yield per ha (432.21 q/ha) and total B content in leaf after one week of 3^rd spray (36.62 mg/kg) was recorded with treatment T₄ (Foliar spray of nano boron @ 100 ppm) in pooled analysis. The maximum no. of primary branches per plant (6.49, 10.25 and 12.80), leaf area (146.11, 168.33 and 190.45 cm²/plant) and leaf area index (0.027, 0.031 and 0.035) at 50, 65 and 80 DATP, respectively, was found in treatment T₅ (Foliar spray of nano boron @ 200 ppm) in pooled analysis. From the present investigation, it can be concluded that among different sources of boron, foliar spray of nano boron @ 100 ppm or borax @ 0.2 % at 40, 55 and 70 DATP observed maximum growth and yield parameters, while foliar spray of nano boron @ 100 ppm observed maximum boron content in tomato leaf.

Sustainable Strategies for Enhancing Vegetative Propagation Efficacy and Yield in Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.)

Ann Sneha Baby — 2025-09-26

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) is an important aromatic, medicinal and culinary herb valued for pleasant fragrances and therapeutic properties. It is commonly used in perfumes, cosmetics, aromatherapy, flavoring, and herbal medicines. Vegetative propagation assures maintenance of desirable traits; however, rooting efficiency and initial establishment can be limiting factors. This study, carried out at College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, evaluated the influence of types of cuttings (terminal vs. semi-hardwood) and bioinoculants (arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), Piriformospora indica, and plant growth promoting rhizobacteria consortium (PGPR Mix 1), on rooting, growth, and yield of sweet basil. A factorial experiment (2 × 3) was conducted using a completely randomized design. Semi-hardwood cuttings produced significantly longer roots and higher root biomass, whereas terminal cuttings developed more branches and yielded more fresh herbage and essential oil. Among the bioinoculants, P. indica significantly enhanced root number, root biomass, plant growth parameters, herbage yield, and essential oil yield, followed by AMF. PGPR Mix 1 exhibited comparatively lower performance. The interaction effects indicated that both the types of cuttings, when treated with P. indica, achieved superior rooting traits, plant growth, and oil yield. These findings suggest that use of either type of cuttings pretreated with bioinoculant P. indica, offers a practical approach for improving propagation efficiency and productivity in O. basilicum.

Assessing Genetic Variability in Eggplant to Determine Their Resource Value and Breeding Potential for Yield and Related Traits

Laxman L Nandi — 2025-09-26

Eggplant is one of the most important vegetables grown in India. The present study was undertaken to study the genetic variability in eggplant for their agro-morphological traits. Sixty accessions of eggplant including released varieties, advanced breeding lines and wild relatives were assessed for 5 morphological descriptors and 6 fruit descriptors. Genetic component viz., GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent over mean were figured out. Genetic diversity study was carried out based on cluster analysis. Principal component analysis (PCA) and Hierarchical cluster analysis (HCA) were carried out for extracting maximum data. A majority of the characters exhibited maximum range of variation as well as many of these characters also displayed high genotypic and phenotypic variance (>20%) except for the fruit length showing modest estimates of PCV (18.73%). The total yield per plant showed positive association with leaf length (0.319), fruit length (0.447), fruit diameter (0.451), average fruits per plant (0.308) and average fruit weight (0.706) at genotypic level at p=0.01 significance. The characters which exhibited a positive correlation with yield were found to have a positive direct effect on yield. Based on D² values, 60 accessions were assembled into 7 highly distinct clusters. The maximum intra-cluster distance was observed in cluster I (2.537) followed by IV (2.421) and the maximum inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters II and IV (7.062). The first two components of PCA depicted 50.39% of the total variance and AHC categorized the germplasm into four key groups. Thus, it can be presumed by this concept that there is a broad array of variability exists in this crop for almost all the traits which will have ample scope for improvement of eggplant.

Formulation and Evaluation of a Salt and Temperature Tolerant Rhizobacterial Consortium for Tomato Cultivation under Abiotic Stress Conditions

Satyam — 2025-09-26

The present study focused on preparation of consortia of salt and temperature tolerant rhizobacteria isolated from the rhizosphere soil of tomato. A total of 138 isolates were obtained from the rhizosphere of tomato plants grown in the laboratory of the Department of Agricultural Microbiology, MPKV, Rahuri, Maharashtra, between 2020 and 2023. Out of that twelve salt and temperature tolerant were identified, six most efficient strains were selected for consortia formulation. The liquid consortium containing Six (Pseudomonas furukawaii STT-A8, Achromobacter sp. STT-A12, Agrobacterium pusense STT-A39, Priestia flexa STT-K13, Bacillus sp. STT-K24 and Brevibacterium epidermidis STT-N28) extremely salt and temperature tolerant rhizobacteria isolates were formulated for their mass production as liquid consortium by comparing the respective selective media with different concentration for these isolates. Among the selective strains, P. furukawaii STT-A8, Achromobacter sp. STT-A12, A. pusense STT-A39 and B. epidermidis STT-N28 these are nitrogen fixers, able to convert atmospheric nitrogen into usable forms it helps in improving soil fertility and crop productivity. All isolates solubilize insoluble phosphate into bioavailable forms except Bacillus sp. STT-K24 to promote root development and making plants resilient to environmental stress. Bacillus sp. STT-K24, P. flexa STT-K13, P. furukawaii STT-A8 and Achromobacter sp. STT-A12, these isolates that converts insoluble form of potash (K) into soluble form that plant can absorb and utilize. Out of five test media (M1, M2, M3, M4 and M5), M3 medium contained Mannitol (5.0 g), Peptone (5.0 g), Glucose (15.0 g), Tricalcium phosphate (3.5 g), K₂HPO₄ (1.50 g), Potassium aluminium silicate (1.50 g), Calcium phosphate (1.50 g), Calcium carbonate (1.50 g), Yeast extract (1.50 g), Ammonium sulphate (0.2 g), MgSO₄.7H₂O (0.2 g), NaCl (0.2 g), K₂SO₄ (0.1 g) was found best. The M3 medium was further formulated by using different concentrations of cell protectants at pH 9.00 was devised as liquid medium L5M3. After preparation of consortium, the optimum population of all six salt temperature tolerant rhizobacteria were observed upto 12 months. The composition of L5M3 media was best that consists of Standard medium (M3), Fe. EDTA (0.30 g), Arabinose (0.60 g), Glycerol (3.0ml), PVP (16.00 g), Trehalose (1.0 g) and Distilled water (1lit). This consortia applied in tomato field under extreme saline and high temperature stress condition and showed very good results.

Genetics of SPAD Chlorophyll Meter Readings and Kernel Yield in Maize (Zea mays L.)

N Sabitha — 2025-09-26

The present study evaluated 45 single cross hybrids generated by involving ten inbred lines in RBD across three seasons for yield and yield attributing traits, combining ability and heterosis. Kernel yield is a complex trait influenced by several yield contributing traits. Chlorophyll is a vital pigment for absorbing, transferring and transforming in photosynthesis. Chlorophyll meter readings have been used in many annual crops to estimate nitrogen status. Hybrids with higher SCMR readings were consistent across seasons emphasizing the stability of the character. Hence, selection for SPAD meter reading could potentially be an effective physiological trait in breeding programmes. Additive and non-additive gene actions were involved in controlling SCMR and kernel yield with a greater role of non-additive gene actions. Standard heterosis varied from 11.22 to 25.11 and from -2.74 to 6.00 and sca effects ranged from -1.67 to 4.98 and from -0.9 to 2.67 for kernel yield and SCMR, respectively in the top yielding hybrids. Among the top 10 hybrids, BML 15 x PDM 1474 and BML 7 x DFTY (poor x good) and BML 15 x PDSM 1452 (poor x poor) with high per se performance for kernel yield and SCMR, significant sca and standard heterosis may be utilised for exploitation of hybrid vigour or development of hybrids. The hybrids Heypool x PDM 1474 and DFTY x Heypool (good x good) with high mean performance for kernel yield and SCMR, significant standard heterosis and non-significant sca effects may be handled through pedigree breeding so as to capitalize additive × additive gene action or may be utilized in the improvement of inbreds or parental lines through recycling. The two hybrids viz; DFTY × PDM 1452 (good x poor) and BML 6 × PDM 1474 (poor x good) with high mean for kernel yield and SCMR, significant sca effects and standard heterosis may be handled though population improvement programmes so as to isolate superior parental lines or to obtain superior hybrids through recurrent selection.

In silico Analysis for Various Parameters of bHLH Protein in Rice (Oryza sativa indica)

Roshani Singh — 2025-09-26

This study focuses on analyzing the basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) protein locus WGL47969 Oryza sativa Indica Group (long-grained rice) through computational methods. bHLH proteins are known to be involved in stress responses and signalling pathways in rice. By understanding the properties and functions of the bHLH protein at the WGL47969 locus, we can potentially manipulate its activity or expression to enhance desired traits in rice, such as improved growth, development, or stress resistance. This knowledge contributes to the broader goal of developing more resilient and productive crop varieties. Through this study, we aimed to understand its properties and function, which are vital for plant growth, development, and stress responses. By conducting molecular dynamics simulations, we assessed the flexibility and stability of the bHLH protein at the WGL47969 locus, identifying important regions and residues involved in its activity. Physicochemical analyses revealed that the protein has a basic nature, biologically unstable (instability index), thermally stable (aliphatic index), and is polar/hydrophilic in nature. The study also predicted the secondary and tertiary structures of the protein, validated them using various methods, and explored their ligand binding sites. Secondary structure prediction analysis showed that this bHLH protein consisted of 138 amino acids, with a distribution of 38.41% alpha helix, 10.14% extended strands, 0.72% beta turns, and 50.72% random coils. Additionally, post-translational modifications, particularly phosphorylation, were investigated, and primers for the bHLH protein at the WGL47969 locus were designed and verified through in-silico PCR. The designed primer produced a 58-nucleotide band with a GC content of 45% and had an amplicon score of 97. "Utilizing Deeplock2.0, the sub-cellular localization of the bHLH protein was predicted to be within the nucleus, with a high probability score of 0.8757." "Protein-protein interactions are vital for understanding biological processes; STRING analysis revealed interactions of hypothetical Oryza sativa indica bHLH proteins with partners: HTH myb-type domain-containing protein associated with sodic soil tolerance, WRKY domain-containing protein involved in defense responses, and DUF4005 domain-containing protein linked to microtubule binding." The comprehensive in silico analysis provided a detailed characterisation of the bHLH protein at the WGL47969 locus in rice and serves as a foundation for further experimental investigations. These computational predictions are reliable and can guide future studies on bHLH proteins in rice and potentially other plant species as well.

The transcription factors known as basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) proteins are essential for many biological processes in plants, including growth, development, and stress responses. Untangling bHLH proteins' intricate involvement in plant biology requires an understanding of their functional properties and regulatory processes. To evaluate the protein's flexibility and stability, molecular dynamics simulations are run, allowing the identification of crucial residues and areas involved in its functional activities. In the present work, we carried out an in silico analysis to look into various parameters and all possible aspects related to bHLH proteins in rice (Oryza sativa). A detailed in silico insight into these proteins includes physicochemical properties, secondary structure prediction, homology modeling, different models and validation of different models. Additionally, we identified possible locations for post-translational modifications, including phosphorylation, which are known to control the stability and activity of proteins. In the present study, we have characterized the bHLH protein according to different stability parameters and valid structures. A detailed in silico analysis of these proteins and prediction of their activity in different conditions can be very useful in both in vitro and in vivo experiments. Our findings shed important light on the diverse functional properties and control mechanisms of rice bHLH proteins. Understanding the precise roles and molecular mechanisms of bHLH proteins in stress responses can contribute to the development of stress-tolerant rice varieties Future experimental studies will be able to build on the integrated in silico analysis reported in this paper, which will help identify specific bHLH proteins implicated in crucial physiological processes in rice and possibly other plant species. Through the modulation of bHLH protein functions, these findings advance our understanding of plant biology and pave the path for future crop enhancement techniques. Rice bHLH proteins may take part in a variety of combinatorial interactions, according to a bioinformatics study, giving them the ability to control a wide range of transcriptional programmes. This paper is the first report on in silico analysis of various parameters and validation of the predicted models by I TASSER of bHLH protein in O. sativa indica, while Experimental validation will provide concrete evidence of the physical interactions between bHLH proteins and their binding partners in rice, confirming the reliability and accuracy of the computational predictions.

Succession of Major Arthropods in Green Gram, Vigna radiata (L.): A Study at Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India

Shradha Parmar — 2025-09-27

Mung bean, [Vigna radiata (L.)], is one of the most important Kharif pulse crops grown in the arid and semi-arid regions of India. Insect pests that attack mung beans can be classified based on their appearance in the field, which is related to the mung bean plant phenology. This study aimed to explore the succession of major arthropods in green gram, Vigna radiata (L.). A field trial was conducted on the succession of major arthropods of green gram during the kharif season 2022 at the experimental field of IFS unit JNKVV Jabalpur (M.P.), India. A total of 18 species of arthropods were recorded in the field, of which 11 are insect pests and 7 are natural enemies. The collected insects were preserved in the insect box and vials containing 70% alcohol for identification. The arthropods were graded as major and minor on the basis of their population density, extent of damage from germination to maturity, and the reduction of yield. Activity of whitefly, dragonfly and damselfly was observed from 7 to 70 days old crop. While jassid, winged bush cricket, green sting bug, spined legume bug, rove beetle and black garden ant were observed from 11,19, 30, 39, 21 and 41 to 70 days old crop. Ladybird beetle and spider were observed from 13 to 70 days old crop. Tobacco caterpillar, white spotted beetle, bean bug, red pumpkin beetle, and aphid were recorded from 14, 17, 38, 40, and 46 days old crop to 59, 31, 50, 52 and 59 days old crop, while the jewel bug was observed only 46 days old crop.

Effect of Humic Acid Application Methods on Growth, Flowering, and Yield of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda

Surbhi Bhati — 2025-09-27

African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is a popular loose flower crop in India, widely used for making garlands, religious offerings, and landscape decoration. Its growth and flower quality depend heavily on integrated nutrient management, but excessive reliance on chemical fertilizers has raised concerns about soil health and sustainability. To explore alternatives, a field experiment was conducted on African marigold cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda at the Floriculture Research Center (FRC), Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Horticulture, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel University of Agriculture and Technology (SVPUA&T), Meerut, India. The experiment followed a randomized block design with three replications and thirteen treatments, including one with 100% recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) and the rest with 75% RDF. Under 75% RDF, humic acid was applied through soil drenching, foliar spray, or their combination at four concentrations (0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 0.8%) applied 3 times at 20-days intervals after transplanting. Application of 75% RDF + 0.6% humic acid (HA) by soil drenching (SD)+ 0.6% HA by foliar spray at 20, 40, and 60 days at treatment (DAT) was effective in increasing vegetative growth and flower yield parameters such as plant height, stem thickness, plant spread, number of primary branches per plant, minimum days to bud initiation, days taken to first flower opening, and 50% flowering, longest flowering duration, size of flower, number of flowers per plant, flower yield (g), and seed yield (g) per plant. The findings indicate that integrating chemical fertilizers with humic acid enhances growth, yield, and sustainability in African marigold production.

Influence of Various Seed Priming Techniques on Coriander's (Coriandrum sativum L.) Plant Growth

Jay Singh — 2025-09-27

The field experiment was conducted at the Vegetable Research Farm, Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India, during the Rabi seasons of 2023-24 and 2024-25. This study examined the impact of various seed priming techniques on the growth parameters of the Coriander variety Azad Dhania-1. A randomized block design was used in this experiment with three replications. The following treatments were used for the study, viz. T₀- Control, T₁- hydropriming for 24 hours soaking, T₂-Vermi wash 15% for 24 hours soaking, T₃- Cow urine 20% for 24 hours soaking, T₄- Panchgavya 15% for 24 hours soaking, T₅-Humic acid 20% for 24 hours soaking, T₆-GA₃ 50 ppm for 24 hours soaking, T₇-NAA 50 ppm for 24 hours soaking, T₈- Cytokinin 100 ppm for 16 hours soaking, T₉- KNO₃ 3% for 16 hours soaking, and T₁₀-NaCl 0.5% for 16 hours soaking. The best results were obtained in T₅ for field emergence 83.33 % (65.90), days to 50% flowering (88.50 days), plant height (114.19 cm), and Days to Maturity (127.33 days). The lowest field emergence (71.00%) was observed in T_8,while the highest days to 50% flowering (95.50 days), days to maturity (131.50 days), and lowest Plant height (101.54 cm) were observed in T₀-Control in the pooled_.According to the findings, priming with humic acid and then Panchgavya and KNO₃ will promote higher emergence (%), plant height and early flowering while shortening the maturity period.

Pre-Processing Interventions for Nutritional and Antinutritional Alterations in Proso Millet (Panicum miliaceum) Grain

Midhila Mahendran — 2025-09-27

Millets represent a distinctive aspect of biodiversity within agricultural and food security frameworks. These small-grained, versatile cereals possess medicinal properties owing to their rich content of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds that contribute to human health and recovery. The majority of the proso millet market place is held by the birdseed industry. Given their high nutritional profile, these ancient staples are often referred to as “nutricereals”. The pre-processing methods revealed a significant difference in all components. Carbohydrate content was highest in soaking (56.75 g/100 g) while protein peaked in germinated grains (14.33 g/100 g). Fat was reduced considerably in germinated (0.70 g/100 g) and soaked (0.40 g/100 g) samples, whereas roasting retained the highest fat content (3.17 g/100 g). The antinutritional factors were prominent in all millets. The pre-processing methods shows that tannin levels were highest in the control (1.46 mg/g) but reduced considerably with processing, reaching the lowest value in the soaking treatment (0.63 mg/g). Phenolic content increased markedly in the germinated sample (95.70 mg/100 g), whereas Phytic acid content, which was highest in the control (60.67 mg/100 g), showed a substantial reduction after processing, with soaking (37.20 mg/100 g) and roasting (38.00 mg/100 g) being the most effective. The mineral profile showed significant improvement with processing treatments. Calcium content of soaked grain recording the highest level (500.80 mg/100 g). Sodium levels, however, were highest in the control (21.80 mg/100 g) and decreased across treatments. Potassium content improved markedly, ranging from 45.00 mg/100 g in the control with soaking and germination also showing elevated values.

Exploring Host Plant Resistance of Cluster Bean Genotypes as for Sclerotium rolfsii Induced Collar Rot in Northern M.P., India

Neelam Soni — 2025-09-27

Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L.) Taub.) is an important commercial pulse crop of arid and semi-arid regions. As a legume, it improves soil fertility by replenishing nitrogen and tolerates moisture stress. However, its yield potential is constrained by several biotic and abiotic factors with stem rot caused by Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc. being a major soil-borne disease leading to significant crop and yield losses. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif 2023 season at Experimental Farm, College of Agriculture, RVSKVV, Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh), to evaluate the resistance of Thirty-four cluster bean genotypes/varieties against Sclerotium rolfsii under natural field conditions. Among the thirty-four genotypes tested, fourteen genotypes namely GD 568, GD 570, GG 1904, GL 10, CAZG 17-4-1, CAZG 16-21, CAZG 20-37, CAZG 20-46, CAZG 17-16, M 83, RGR 18-8, RGR 20-7, X-25 and X-30 exhibited a highly resistant response. Eight genotypes (GD 574, GD 584, GG 2115, HG 2-20, CAZG 17-22, RGR 19-5, CAZG 19-10 and RGC 1066 (ch) were categorized as resistant. Ten genotypes showed moderate resistance: GD 562, GD 565, GD 567, GG 1902, RGR 19-7, CAZG 20-8, RGC 1033 (ch), X-16, RGR 18-1 (ch) and RGR 20-15. One genotype CAZG 17-4-5 was moderately susceptible while GG 1901 was found to be susceptible to the disease.

Standardisation of 16S rRNA Gene Based Nested PCR as a Sensitive Tool for Canine Leptospirosis Diagnosis

ATHIRA K S — 2025-09-27

Aim: The present study aimed to standardize a 16S rRNA gene-based nested PCR assay for the sensitive detection of leptospirosis in dogs and to compare its diagnostic performance with PCR targeting lipL32 and microscopic agglutination test (MAT). To achieve this, a cross-sectional diagnostic study was conducted on clinically suspected canine cases of leptospirosis.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at the Department of Veterinary Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Pookode, during November 2024 to August 2025.

Methodology: A total of 53 dogs with clinical signs suggestive of leptospirosis were screened. Serum samples were tested by MAT using 13 serovars of Leptospira interrogans. Whole blood was subjected to conventional PCR targeting the lipL32 gene, and nested PCR targeting the conserved region of the 16S rRNA gene. The sensitivity of different diagnostic tests was compared using kappa statistics.

Results: Of the 53 suspected dogs, 21 (39.6%) were positive by nested PCR, 14 (26.4%) by lipL32 PCR, and 6 (11.3%) by MAT. The predominant serovar detected was Leptospira interrogans Pomona (50%). Nested PCR showed the highest sensitivity (100%), compared to PCR (66.7%) and MAT (28.6%).

Conclusion: The study demonstrates that 16S rRNA gene-based nested PCR is a highly sensitive diagnostic tool for canine leptospirosis, capable of detecting infection even in early stages when antibody response is absent, a finding that is consistent with and supported by existing knowledge. Integration of molecular techniques with serological assays can provide a more reliable diagnostic strategy and enhance surveillance and control of leptospirosis in endemic regions.

DNA Barcode Development of Two Catfishes Heteropneustes fossilis and Mystus bleekeri from Upper Lake Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India

Neelima Uikey — 2025-09-27

Aims: To develop cox1 based DNA barcodes for Heteropneustes fossilis and Mystus bleekeri, from Upper Lake, Bhopal, to support accurate species identification and molecular taxonomy.

Study Design: The study involved the collection and morphological identification of samples followed by DNA isolation, PCR amplification, Sanger sequencing, and barcode generation.

Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of molecular Biology and Genomics, Department of Bioscience, Barkatullah University, Bhopal (M.P.), India, between March 2024 to July 2025.

Methodology: The genomic DNA was extracted using Phenol:Chloroform:Isoamyl (25:24:1) method. The quality of extracted DNA was determined on a 1% agarose gel. The cox1 gene fragments were amplified using universal primer (FishF1 and FishR1). Sequenced through Sanger sequencing and analysed using BLAST, MEGA11, and BOLD systems for species identification, phylogenetic assessment and barcode development.

Results: In this study, two samples were analysed to generate DNA barcodes. A 615 bases long fragment of the cox1 gene was sequenced, resulting sequences (658 bp for H. fossilis and 609 bp for M. bleekeri) were submitted to GenBank (accession number PP754237 and PX116877). Sequence composition analysis revealed a moderate AT-bias (A+T = 56.35%) with the highest GC content at the first codon position. BLAST analysis confirmed 99-100% similarity with reference sequences, validating species level identification. Phylogenetic analyses using Neighbor-Joining (NJ) trees highlighted contrasting patterns: H. fossilis sequences clustered into a single cohesive clade with low divergence across South Asia, while M. bleekeri grouped within a diverse genus level dataset showing clear interspecific separation but some overlap with congeners.

Conclusion: These findings confirm the reliability of cox1 as a DNA barcode for both species. Overall, this study contributes validates barcodes for two freshwater catfishes of Upper Lake and emphasizes the value of DNA barcoding in fish taxonomy, biodiversity.

Morphological and Biochemical Characterization of Snake Gourd Genotypes under Foothill Conditions of Nagaland

Tasenyala Longkumer — 2025-09-27

The present study was conducted to assess the morphological and biochemical variability of twenty-five snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina var. anguina) genotypes under the foothill conditions of Nagaland to identify superior types for varietal improvement. Field trials were conducted during 2022 and 2023 at Medziphema, Nagaland University, using a randomized block design with three replications. Morphological characterization showed uniformity in stem shape (angular), tendril type (coiled), fruit pubescence and waxiness, while moderate variation were observed in leaf shape (cordate, reniform, orbicular), lobing (3-7 lobes), fruit shape (elongate slightly curved-52%, elongate-40%, oblong-8%), fruit colour (light green- 40%, dark green-28%, medium green-24%, white-8%) and stripe pattern (distinct-52%, diffused-40%, absent-8%). Biochemical analysis revealed significant variation in total soluble solids (3.21-5.08 °Brix), vitamin C (3.92-5.91 mg/100 g), moisture content (90.47-94.31%), carbohydrate content (3.45-4.98 %), crude protein (0.50-0.79%) and dry matter (5.70 - 9.53 %), while shelf life range from 9.27 to 15.37 days. Genotype-1, Genotype-6, Genotype-7, Genotype-15 and Genotype-16 were identified as the most promising owing to their superior nutritional quality and extended storage potential. These results confirm significant exploitable genetic diversity for breeding high-yielding, nutritionally rich and market preferred snake gourd cultivars suited to Nagaland and similar agro-climatic regions.

Comparative Phytochemical Screening of Ethanolic Leaf Extracts of Cinnamomum Species

Neha Sanwal — 2025-09-27

Aim: This study examines and contrasts the phytochemical profiles of ethanolic leaf extracts from three species of Cinnamomum—Cinnamomum camphora, Cinnamomum tamala and Cinnamomum verum.

Study Design: Ethanolic extract of fresh leaves of three species of Cinnamomum was selected for the phytochemical screening and chemical methods was used for the purpose.

Place of Study: The present investigation was conducted at the College of Fisheries, Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT), Pantnagar, located in Udham Singh Nagar district of Uttarakhand, India (29.06°N, 79.51°E).

Methodology: Ethanolic extract of leaves from Cinnamomum species was prepared by following the Soxhlet extraction method. For the phytochemical screening, the samples were prepared accordingly using standard procedures. The qualitative tests for determination of alkaloids (Picric acid test), reducing sugars (Fehling’s test), glycosides (10% NaOH test), flavonoids (Alkaline reagent test), phenolic compounds (Iodine test), tannins (Braymer’s test), phlobatannins (HCl test), saponins (NaHCO₃test), phytosterols (Salkowski test), terpenoids (using chloroform and H₂SO₄), triterpinoides (Salkowski test), carotenoids (Carr price reaction), quinones (Conc. HCl test), anthraquinones (Ammonium Hydroxide test) and anthocyanins (HCl test) were performed using chemical methods. The quantitative estimation of flavonoid, phenolic and tannin content was also performed.

Results: Qualitative phytochemical analysis indicated the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, glycosides, phytosterols and terpenoids across all three species. Quantitative assessments revealed that C. camphora had the highest total flavonoid content (575.25 mg QE g⁻¹ extract) and phenolic content (191.85 mg GAE g⁻¹), while C. verum showed the greatest tannin concentration (3.54 mg GAE g⁻¹).

Conclusion: The results indicate that C. camphora could be a valuable source of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agents, C. tamala may be suitable for metabolic health interventions and C. verum could be utilized for antimicrobial and gastrointestinal purposes.

Integrated Effects of Plant Growth Regulators and Organic Manures on Growth and Yield of Baby Corn (Zea mays L.)

Sanchita Sarkar — 2025-09-27

A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2022 at the Crop Research Farm, Sahaspur, Dehradun to evaluate the impact of plant growth regulators (PGRs) and organic manures on the growth and yield performance of baby corn (Zea mays L.). The study comprised ten treatment combinations, including three PGRs (Seaweed extract, GA₃, and NAA) and three organic manures (FYM, goat manure, and vermicompost), with a recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) serving as the control. The treatments were arranged in a randomized block design (RBD) with three replications. Among all treatments, the foliar application of NAA at 30 ppm combined with the basal application of vermicompost at 4.46 t/ha recorded the highest plant height (189.57 cm), dry matter accumulation (97.47 g/plant), enhanced cob traits, maximum green cob yield (6.82 t/ha), and a harvest index of 33.07%, significantly outperforming the RDF control. These findings suggest a strong synergistic effect between NAA and vermicompost in promoting the overall growth and yield of baby corn.

Influence of Organic Manures and Panchagavya on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Sankar Khatua — 2025-09-27

The field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of 2024-25 at the Crop Research Farm of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, India, to evaluate. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with nine treatments and replicated thrice. The treatments were Organic manures (FYM 10 t/ha, Vermicompost 5 t/ha and Poultry manure 2.5 t/ha) and Panchagavya (3%, 5%, 7%). Treatment no. 9 (Poultry manure - 2.5 t/ha + Panchyagavya - 7% foliar spray) demonstrated superior performance, producing the tallest plants (86.20 cm), highest dry weight (22.53 g), and maximum effective tillers per square meter (270.34). It also achieved the highest number of grains per spike (46.04), grain yield (5.60 t/ha), and straw yield (7.01 t/ha).

Green Synthesis of Silver and Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles Using Neem Leaves for Growth Enhancement and Phomopsis Blight Control in Brinjal

Anju Shukla — 2025-09-27

Brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) is one of the most important vegetable crops of the Solanaceae family, valued for its nutritional and medicinal properties but severely affected by Phomopsis blight, causing heavy yield losses. The present study evaluated the efficacy of green-synthesized silver (Ag) and zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticles from neem leaves, along with plant extracts and fungicide, on seed germination, seedling mortality, and growth parameters of brinjal under field conditions during 2022–23 and 2023–24. Results revealed that all treatments significantly improved germination, shoot and root length, as well as fresh and dry biomass compared to control. Among treatments, Ag NPs @100 ppm (T3) consistently performed best, recording maximum germination (96%), longest shoot (62.10 cm) and root length (29.06 cm), highest shoot fresh weight (96.37 g) and root fresh weight (15.80 g), and maximum dry biomass, showing substantial increases over control. ZnO NPs @100 ppm (T6) ranked second, followed by Ag and ZnO NPs @75 ppm, while fungicide (SAAF) showed moderate effects and plant extracts were least effective. The findings highlight the superior potential of green-synthesized nanoparticles as eco-friendly alternatives to chemical fungicides for enhancing growth and vigor of brinjal plants.

The Variations in Aminotransferase Enzymes and Commercial Parameters of the Silkworm as Influenced by Exogenous Supplementation of Zinc Chloride

Tejashwini G — 2025-09-27

The silkworm, Bombyx mori L. exclusively used as an invertebrate laboratory model and drag the attention of many researchers in the field of nutritional studies. In the current investigation the popular cross breed PM x CSR₂was used in order to know the influence of supplementation of zinc chloride on aminotransferase activity as well as commercial parameters of silkworm. The larvae reared on mulberry leaf treated with zinc chloride at 0.2per cent concentration registered elevated levels of alanine and aspartate aminotransferase activities as compared to remaining treatments viz., 0.6 and 1.0 per cent. Similarly, silkworm administrated with zinc chloride (0.2 %) also enhance commercial parameters which includes larval weight, cocoon weight, shell weight, shell percentage, filament length, reelability, denier, renditta and raw silk percentage. Comparatively, alanine and aspartate aminotransferase activities were relatively higher in the fat body tissue than silk gland. Irrespective of the treatments, enzyme activities were maximum during 5^th instar 6^th day old larvae as compared to 5^th instar 1^st day.

Genetic Evaluation of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Genotypes in Malwa Region of India

Shyam Vijay Vargiya — 2025-09-28

The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the extent of genetic variability among sixty wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes, including two local checks (Lok-1 and Tejas), under timely sown conditions during the Rabi 2024–25 season. The experiment was conducted at the Demonstration-cum-Experimental Farm, Shri Vaishnav Institute of Agriculture, using a randomized block design with two replications. Data were recorded on important agronomic and physiological traits such as germination percentage, ground cover, days to heading, days to anthesis, days to maturity, plant height, spike length, grain yield, and 1000-grain weight.

The analysis of variance revealed significant differences among the genotypes for most of the studied traits, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability and scope for further selection. Several genotypes performed better than the standard checks, reflecting their adaptability and potential for yield improvement. In particular, genotypes such as NINGA #1 displayed superior grain yield along with desirable physiological traits, suggesting their potential utility in wheat improvement programs. The variation observed for key yield-related traits highlights the importance of exploiting both phenotypic and genetic diversity for the development of climate-resilient and high-yielding cultivars.

The findings of this study emphasize the significance of evaluating wheat genotypes under timely sown conditions, which represent the optimal sowing window for maximizing productivity. Timely sowing not only ensures better crop establishment but also enhances stress avoidance and resource-use efficiency. The identification of stable and high-performing genotypes under these conditions is crucial for maintaining wheat production, especially in the context of rising temperatures and climate change. Overall, the results provide valuable insights for breeders, indicating that the identified promising genotypes can be effectively utilized in future breeding strategies aimed at improving yield potential, stability, and adaptability across diverse agro-climatic regions.

Yield and Economic Advantage of Pigeonpea Based Intercropping System under Different Farming Practices in Rainfed North Karnataka, India

Bhavana V N — 2025-09-29

Aims: The field experiment was conducted during kharif 2021-2022 with an aim to study yield and economic advantage of various intercropping system modules for different farming practices in rainfed areas of North Karnataka at Dharwad, Karnataka.

Study Design: The experiment was laid out in a strip plot design.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was carried out at experimental plots of Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture, Dharwad, during kharif season of 2021-2022.

Methodology: The vertical factor comprised of six farming practices, while horizontal factor included five intercropping systems making a total of 30 treatments, each replicated twice.

Results: Pigeonpea + groundnut under conventional practice (2094 kg ha⁻¹) and 100% organic practice (2057 kg ha⁻¹) recorded significantly higher pigeonpea equivalent yield (PEY), with net returns being highest under conventional practice (Rs.107,249 ha⁻¹).

Conclusion: It can be concluded that following pigeonpea + greengram and pigeonpea + groundnut with conventional practice is more productive as well as profitable. Next best practices would be pigeonpea + greengram and pigeonpea + groundnut with 100 per cent organic practice and 50 per cent organic + 50 per cent inorganic practice if premium price is assured for organic produce.

High-throughput Root Dip Assay for Rapid Pathogenicity Testing of Ralstonia solanacearum in Tomato Seedlings

Vidyashankar D. — 2025-09-29

Ralstonia solanacearum, a devastating vascular pathogen of tomato, causes bacterial wilt leading to significant crop losses globally. Rapid and reliable screening methods are essential to assess the pathogenic potential of different isolates for resistance breeding and epidemiological studies. This study presents a high-throughput root dip inoculation assay to evaluate the virulence of R. solanacearum strain RsT-7 in tomato (cv. Sahoo and Aaryaman). Six distinct treatments involving bacterial broth, sterile water and bacterial suspension (OD₆₀₀ = 0.6) were compared in 6–7-day-old seedlings. Among all treatments, direct root exposure to bacterial suspension (S‑1) resulted in 100% wilting within 48 hours post-inoculation, exhibiting rapid and consistent symptom development including turgor loss, drooping and seedling collapse. Other treatments involving broth or delayed suspension addition showed significantly lower wilt incidence (0–80%). The assay was successfully adapted to 30-day-old seedlings, which developed progressive wilting and stem collapse. Pathogen colonization was confirmed via ooze test and decreased lignification in vascular tissues was visualized using phloroglucinol staining. The results indicate that direct root dip in bacterial suspension is a reliable, reproducible and resource-efficient method for pathogenicity screening of R. solanacearum in tomato. This approach enables rapid disease assessment in early growth stages and can significantly accelerate screening pipelines in plant pathology research.

Unraveling Genetic Variability for Yield and its Component Traits under Terminal Drought Conditions in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

Priyanka — 2025-09-30

Rainfed agriculture covers nearly 80% of the total cropped area and contributes more than 60% of global food production. In chickpea, productivity under post-rainy rainfed conditions is greatly constrained by drought stress. Enhancing drought tolerance through genetic improvement of quantitative traits remains a vital strategy. To assess genetic variability, an investigation was conducted with 30 chickpea genotypes, including six standard checks, during the post-rainy season at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Vijayapur. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all fourteen morphological traits, with wide ranges observed. Under non-stress conditions, high phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient variation were renowned for the number of primary branches per plant and seeds per pod, while under stress, higher values were recorded for number of pods per plant, seed yield per plant, and plot yield. Broad-sense heritability was high for most traits, except days to first flowering and days to 50% flowering. A high genetic advance over mean for seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, plot yield, biological yield, and harvest index suggested the predominance of additive gene action. Hence, direct selection for these traits would be effective and could substantially aid in the development of drought-tolerant chickpea varieties.Top of FormBottom of Form

Effect of Micronutrients on Growth and Yield of Lentil (Lens culinaris L.)

Aniket Senapati — 2025-09-30

The field experiment was conducted on Lentil, during Rabi season of 2024-25 at Crop Research Farm, Department of Agronomy, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, U.P., India. The treatment consisted of 3 levels of Zinc (5,7 and 9kg/ha) and 3 levels of Molybdenum (2, 4 and 6 kg/ha) along with recommended doses of Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium and a control (20-40-20 NPK/ha). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Block Design with 10 treatment and replication thrice. Application of Zinc (9kg/ha) along with Molybdenum (6kg/ha) (treatment 9) recorded highest for growth parameters which were plant height (57.95 cm), no. of branches (23.93), no. of nodules (17.27) plant dry weight (7.51g) and also for yield attributes which were highest no. of pods/plant (87.47), highest no. of seeds/pod (1.79), highest seed yield (1.87 t/ha) and highest stover yield (3.34 t/ha) which were statistically superior to all other treatments. This “Application of combination” is recommended for maximizing lentil productivity. However, highest, statistically superior and significant harvest index (37.07%) was recorded in application of Zinc (7kg/ha) along with Molybdenum (2kg/ha) (treatment 4).

Studies on Standardization of Growing Media and Growing Conditions for Nursery Production of Tomato

Dharavath Chandana Naik — 2025-09-30

The aim of the investigation was to standardize growing media and environmental conditions for optimal nursery production of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The study was conducted at the Centre of Excellence, Mulugu, Siddipet district, Telangana during 2024 using a Factorial Randomized Block Design at the nursery stage. Treatments included five growing media i.e., cocopeat (100%), cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1), cocopeat + vermiculite + perlite (2:1:1), cocopeat + biochar (1:1) and cocopeat + biochar (2:1) combined with three environments: open field, polyhouse and shade net house. Methodology involved fifteen treatment combinations, each replicated thrice, with data collected on germination parameters and seedling growth metrics from five randomly selected plants per replication. Results revealed that the highest germination percentage (100%) was consistently obtained under polyhouse conditions across all media, with the earliest germination (7.00 days) in cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1) under polyhouse. Among seedling growth parameters, maximum stem diameter (1.96 mm) was recorded in cocopeat + biochar (1:1) under shade net, while the highest number of leaves (5.67), root length (10.15 cm) and leaf area (11.09 cm²) were observed in cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1) under polyhouse. Shoot length (6.27 cm) and seedling vigor index (1741.07) were also highest in cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1) under shade net. The root- to-shoot ratio attained its maximum value (0.47) in cocopeat + biochar (1:1) under polyhouse. Seedlings reached the transplanting stage earliest (30 DAS) under polyhouse across all media. It is therefore concluded that the combination of cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1) under polyhouse conditions ensured rapid germination, early transplanting, and robust seedling growth in tomato, while shade net conditions supported greater vigour index and shoot elongation. This integrated approach highlights the superiority of enriched cocopeat-based media under controlled environments for successful nursery production of tomato.

Harnessing Lemna minor for Sustainable Wastewater Remediation: Advances, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Kumari Shashi Bala — 2025-09-26

Water pollution is a current issue of concern around the world and there is a dire need to develop sustainable, cost effective and eco-safe wastewater treatment solutions. Lemna minor (duckweed) is becoming famous among aquatic macrophytes as an effective phytoremediator because of its fast growth, adaptability and wide spectrum of pollutants that it removes. Decades of studies have confirmed that L. minor can have a significant positive water quality impact by increasing wastewater oxygenation, decreasing organic loads, and alleviating pathogens, and, at the same time, improving physicochemical characteristics including transparency and odor. Savings of up to 75% in biochemical oxygen demand (BOD5), 70% in chemical oxygen demand (COD), 72 % in ammonium, 82 % in phosphate, 67 % in total nitrogen, and 96 % in total phosphorus have been reported in a variety of wastewater streams, such as municipal wastewater, industrial wastewater, and agricultural wastewater. Moreover, L. minor has a good metal uptake efficiency and the removal percentage of iron is 91.7% with the accumulation of large proportions of copper, chromium, cadmium, lead and zinc.

In addition to remediation potential, L. minor provides an added value of production of protein-rich biomass (up to 75.24% crude protein), applicable to animal feed, bioenergy, and other bioproducts, which corresponds to the principles of the circular economy. Addition of duckweed into current treatment systems, including secondary clarifier tanks, or cultivated microbial and algal consortia also increases pollutant removal and decreases reliance on tertiary treatments. However, the variability of the performance under the influence of the wastewater composition (e.g. landfill leachate, nutrient imbalances) and the possibility of the re-release of nutrients during the decay of biomass pose significant issues. Quick biomass harvesting, optimization of the cultivation environment, and genetic or biotechnological advances are all potential tools to maximize efficiency. This review paper reveals both opportunities and challenges of phytoremediation by Lemna minor.

A Review on Current Scenario of Buffalo Population and Production in Rajasthan, India

Aarti Gupta — 2025-09-26

The present assessment focuses on the buffalo industry in Rajasthan, with an emphasis on population and productivity. In India, the buffalo industry produces 1.85 million tons of carabeef (18.09%) and 108.45 million tons of milk (45.32%). Buffaloes make up 24.10% of the total livestock population in Rajasthan. As of 2019, there were 13.6 million buffalo in Rajasthan, which represents a 5.53% increase from the previous census in 2012. Rajasthan produced a total of 16.68 million tons of buffalo milk and 50.45 thousand tons of carabeef in 2022-2023, reinforcing India's global dominance in exports. The purpose of this review is to shed light on the current buffalo situation in Rajasthan and encourage entrepreneurship to establish more buffalo farms to improve the economic status of buffalo farmers in the region.

Hormone–ROS Interactions in Plants: A Molecular Framework for Stress Resilience

Naresh Kumar — 2025-09-27

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are inevitable by-products of aerobic metabolism in plants and serve as essential signalling molecules under both optimal and stress conditions. However, excessive accumulation of ROS leads to oxidative stress, causing cellular injury through lipid peroxidation, protein oxidation, and nucleic acid damage, ultimately compromising plant growth and productivity. Phytohormones, including abscisic acid (ABA), salicylic acid (SA), jasmonates (JA), ethylene (ET), auxins (IAA), cytokinins (CK), gibberellins (GA), and brassinosteroids (BR), function as central regulators of plant stress responses and play crucial roles in maintaining redox homeostasis. These hormones modulate ROS levels through multiple mechanisms: stimulation of apoplastic ROS production as secondary messengers, induction of antioxidant enzyme systems such as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and ascorbate peroxidase, and regulation of non-enzymatic antioxidant metabolites like ascorbate and glutathione.

Recent evidence highlights that hormonal interactions with ROS are highly context-dependent, with certain hormones simultaneously promoting ROS as signalling intermediates while also enhancing scavenging mechanisms to prevent cellular damage. Hormone crosstalk adds another layer of complexity, as synergistic or antagonistic interactions among ABA, SA, JA, BR, and other hormones finely tune antioxidant responses according to stress type, tissue, and developmental stage. Advances in molecular biology and omics approaches have revealed key signaling nodes, including NADPH oxidases, MAP kinases, and redox-sensitive transcription factors, that act as integrators of hormone–ROS networks. Furthermore, priming strategies with exogenous hormone application demonstrate potential for improving stress resilience by preparing antioxidant systems for rapid activation under adverse conditions.

This review synthesises recent progress on the mechanistic roles of phytohormones in oxidative stress regulation, emphasising their dual functions as inducers of ROS signalling and enhancers of antioxidant capacity. We discuss how hormone-regulated ROS balance influences stomatal regulation, chloroplast function, pathogen defence, and growth trade-offs. We also highlight translational opportunities for crop improvement through targeted manipulation of hormone pathways, alongside current limitations such as dose sensitivity, species-specific responses, and field-level variability. By identifying knowledge gaps and proposing integrative research directions, this review underscores the central role of hormones in redox biology and their potential in guiding sustainable agricultural practices under increasingly variable climate conditions.

Insect Hormones and their Biochemical Regulation: An Overview of Current Research

N. Pavan — 2025-09-27

The most diverse animal group is insects and they depend on a complex but a small network of the endocrine system to control their growth, reproduction, metabolism and behavior. Among major insect hormones, juvenile hormones (JHs), ecdysteroids, insulin-like peptides (ILPs), and neuropeptides are triggered in novel relationships, which guarantee physiological plasticity according to internal and external signals. Molecular biology and technology, such as CRISPR-mediated genome editing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics, have shown existing but plastic elements of endocrine regulation, and have demonstrated new actions of enzymes, microRNA, and epigenetics improving endocrine responses. This review is a synthesis of existing information on the biosynthesis of lipid hormones, receptor-mediated transcriptional regulation, neuropeptide regulation of molting and reproduction, ILP signaling between nutrition and growth, and cross-talk between endocrine signaling. Photoperiod, temperature, diet and exposure to pesticides prove to reform hormone functioning and frequently trigger diapause or different life-history approaches. Applied viewpoints focus on utilizing insect growth regulators (IGRs), synthetic hormone analogs, and botanicals including neem powders in the management of pests, and new strategies centered on ILP and neuropathway-neuropathway-neuropathway. Notably, hormonal knowledge can also be optimal in pollinators and agronomy. Although this has improved a lot, the gaps in knowledge of tissue-specific ILP functions, embryonic JH roles as well as functional characterization of newly identified neuropeptides still exist. The key ways to move into the future are integrative approaches to multi-omics, computational modeling and eco-endocrine approaches. All told and said, the biochemical regulation of insect hormones can be of invaluable use in the basics of entomology and the applied practices of agriculture, biological preservation policies, and climatic-stable pest control.

Acute Oral Toxicity Assessment of Xlivpro Premix in Wistar Rats: A Liver Protective Herbal Premix

Damekar Soundarya — 2025-09-26

The study was aimed to evaluate the acute oral toxicity and safety profile of Xlivpro Premix in accordance with OECD-423 guidelines. Experimental study involving the assessment of toxic effects and mortality in adult Wistar rats following oral administration of Xlivpro Premix. The study was conducted at the Department of Veterinary Pharmacology and Toxicology, Post Graduate Institute of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (PGIVAS), Akola, Maharashtra, India over a period of 14 days. Six healthy adult Wistar rats (113–134 grams) were administered Xlivpro Premix orally at doses of 300 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg body weight. Observations for toxic effects and mortality were recorded for 14 days. Blood biochemical parameters including AST, ALT, ALP, and creatinine were measured. At the end of the study, histopathological examinations of vital organs including the heart, liver, kidneys, and lungs were performed. No toxic effects or mortality were observed in Xlivpro-treated rats during the experimental period. Changes in body weight over the 14-day period remained within normal range. Biochemical parameters and histopathological evaluations indicated no significant abnormalities. The LD50 of Xlivpro Premix exceeded 2000 mg/kg, confirming the safety of formulation.

Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potassium Uptake in Wheat as Influenced by Integrated Nutrient Management Practices

Jagrati Chauhan — 2025-09-27

During the rabi seasons of 2019–20 and 2020–21 a field experiment was conducted at a farmer’s field in Haridwar district, Uttarakhand, to assess the influence of integrated nutrient management (INM) practices on nutrient uptake in wheat (Triticum aestivum L., variety HD 2967). The experiment include of 11 treatments involving combinations of the different recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF: 120 kg N, 60 kg P₂O₅, and 40 kg K₂O ha⁻¹), farmyard manure (FYM), vermicompost, and biofertilizers (Azotobacter and phosphate-solubilizing bacteria, PSB). The results reveal that INM practices markedly improved the uptake of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in both grain and straw compared with sole application of either inorganic fertilizers or organic manures. Among all the treatments, T11 (75% RDF + 25% N through vermicompost + Azotobacter + PSB) proved superior, recording the maximum nutrient uptake in grain (90.56 and 95.26 kg N ha⁻¹, 15.25 and 15.70 kg P ha⁻¹, and 30.38 and 30.62 kg K ha⁻¹ during 2019–20 and 2020–21, respectively). This treatment also indicate the highest uptake in straw, thereby reflecting an overall balanced improvement in nutrient assimilation. The next best performance was observed with treatment T10 , though it remained significantly lower than T11. When compared with the control (100% RDF), the treatment T11 treatment recorded an average increase of 18–22% in N uptake, 15–18% in P uptake, and about 12–14% in K uptake across the two years. These findings strongly reaffirm the role of integrated use of fertilizers, organic manures, and biofertilizers in improving nutrient uptake, sustaining soil fertility, and enhancing the productivity of wheat under field conditions. From a long-lasting perspective, such balanced nutrient management strategies are not only agronomically successful but also environmentally sustainable.

Symbiotic Effectiveness of Indigenous Rhizobial Strains Isolated from Soybean Cultivars under Chhattisgarh Agro-Climatic Conditions

Ankit Choudhary — 2025-09-27

Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) is a major legume crop and its productivity relies mainly on symbiotic nitrogen fixation with rhizobia. Biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) through symbiosis with rhizobia plays a crucial role in reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers, enhancing soil fertility, and sustaining crop productivity. The current study assessed the nodulation and symbiotic efficacy of native rhizobial strains isolated from soybean cultivars grown under the agroclimatic region of Chhattisgarh. Symbiotic parameters like nodulation characteristics, biomass accumulation, shoot nitrogen content and leghaemoglobin concentration were measured at 50% flowering stage. Field trials with seven soybean cultivars (SNM-24-68, SNM-24-69, SNM-24-70, SNM-24-71, SNM-24-72, SNM-24-73, SNM-24-74) assessed for growth parameters and symbiotic traits at 60 DAS. SNM-24-74 performed best, showing maximum plant height (66.75 cm), nitrogen uptake (122.75 mg/plant), nodule number (80.75/plant), and leghaemoglobin (2.70 mg/g). Nodulation assessments revealed that SNM-24-74 recorded the highest dry nodule weight (722.00 mg/plant). There was a noticeable difference between cultivars being the significantly highest in Variety, SNM-24-74 followed by SNM-24-70. Seven rhizobial isolates SR-68, SR-69, SR-70, SR-71, SR-72, SR-73, SR-74 were isolated from these seven soybean cultivars and coded according to the concerned cultivars. Further, among native rhizobial strains, SR-74 and SR-70 isolated from soybean cultivars SNM-24-74 and SNM-24-70 respectively, showed good colony growth on YEMA media and all showed a positive response towards IAA production. The study suggests that indigenous rhizobial isolates associated with high-performing cultivars such as SNM-24-74 could be further explored as potential bioinoculants for enhancing soybean productivity in Chhattisgarh, India.