Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Innovations in Pollination Methods: Transition towards Modern Pollination in Precision Agriculture

N. Vairam — 2026-05-26

Pollination is a critical ecological process that directly influences global food production, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability. Traditional pollination methods—primarily reliant on natural pollinators such as bees, butterflies and manual human-assisted techniques—have supported agriculture for centuries. However, rapid declines in pollinator populations, intensification of farming systems, and the growing demand for higher crop yields have accelerated the shift toward innovative and technologically advanced pollination strategies. This review examines the evolution of pollination approaches from conventional practices to modern precision agriculture techniques. The present review was conducted using secondary sources derived from existing academic literature, including peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and conference proceedings. It highlights recent advancements, including mechanical pollinators, drone-assisted pollination, artificial intelligence–based flower detection, robotic micro-pollinators, and controlled-environment pollination systems used in protected cultivation. Furthermore, the abstract synthesises insights on the efficacy, scalability, ecological impacts, and economic feasibility of these innovations. By integrating traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technologies, precision pollination offers promising avenues for sustainable crop production, climate resilience, and enhanced food security. Future advancements are expected to focus on reducing research and development costs while enhancing the supporting infrastructure of pollination systems to achieve greater cost-effectiveness. The integration of image sensors with diverse pollination technologies is improving adaptability and efficiency across a wide range of greenhouse crops. These technological developments are accelerating the pollination process while simultaneously addressing economic constraints, thereby supporting the broader adoption of automated pollination solutions in modern agriculture. Overall, this review underscores the need for interdisciplinary research, farmer-friendly innovations, and policy support to ensure the future of pollination in modern agriculture.

Effect of Organic and Biofertilization on Growth, Yield, and Chemical Constituents of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)

Nabila F. Elashmawy — 2026-05-26

The increasing global demand for high-quality medicinal plants, coupled with the environmental and health concerns associated with chemical fertilizers, has spurred a resurgence of interest in sustainable agricultural practices. The over-reliance on synthetic NPK fertilizers has led to soil degradation, groundwater pollution, and elevated production costs. In two consecutive seasons (2023/2024 and 2024/2025), this study assessed the impact of combined organic and biofertilization on Nigella sativa L. growth, seed output, oil productivity, and chemical composition under Egyptian conditions. A randomized complete block design was used to arrange twelve fertilization treatments that included chicken manure (PM; 10 and 20) m³ fed⁻¹, Nitrobein (NT) (Azospirillum sp.), Phosphorein (Ph) (Bacillus megatherium var. phosphaticum), and active dry yeast. When compared to the control, all fertilization treatments greatly increased vegetative growth and output. The maximum plant height (76.7 cm), number of capsules (45.06 plant⁻¹), seed weight (4.78 g plant⁻¹), and seed yield (0.76 t ha⁻¹) were all produced by the combined treatment Ph + PM (20 m³ fed⁻¹), which was 73% higher than the control (0.44 t ha⁻¹). Yeast + PM (20 m³ fed⁻¹) enhanced the fixed oil content from 19.91% (control) to 27.59%, while phosphorein treatment increased the volatile oil production from 0.013 to 0.038 mL plant⁻¹.

Fertilization strategy also affected the content of fatty acids. The predominant unsaturated fatty acid, linoleic acid, varied from 66.25% to 83.09%, with yeast application showing the highest percentage. In addition to increasing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium accumulation in plant tissues, integrated treatments greatly increased chlorophyll a (1.43 mg g⁻¹ vs. 1.06 mg g⁻¹ in the control). Overall, the combination of biofertilizers and high-rate poultry manure outperformed individual treatments, increasing N. sativa oil quality and yield amount. These results demonstrate integrated nutrient management as a viable approach to raising black cumin productivity and phytochemical quality in semi-arid environments.

A Study on Incidence and Biochemical Alterations Associated with True Anoestrus and Silent Oestrus in Crossbred Cows of Assam, India

Chiranjeevi Acharya — 2026-05-26

Reproductive disorders such as true anoestrus and silent oestrus are major causes of infertility and economic loss in dairy cattle, particularly under field conditions where nutritional and managemental factors greatly influence reproductive performance. The present study was conducted to study the prevalence of reproductive disorders in crossbred cows and to determine the incidence and biochemical alterations associated with true anoestrus and silent oestrus in crossbred cows maintained under field conditions in Assam. A total of 1374 crossbred cows from private farms in the greater Guwahati area were examined through breeding history, clinico-gynaecological, and ultrasonographic evaluations. For biochemical analysis of blood serum, Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, zinc, total protein, and cholesterol were estimated using an automatic biochemistry analyzer following the protocols provided with commercial kits. Out of 1374 crossbred cows, 1172 (85.3%) were found normal, while 102 (7.42%) and 100 (7.28%) were identified as repeat breeders and anoestrus cows, respectively. The overall incidence of silent oestrus and true anoestrus was 4.58% (63/1374) and 2.69% (37/1374), respectively. Biochemical analyses revealed significantly (p<0.05) lower serum calcium levels and higher cholesterol and total protein concentrations in true anoestrus cows compared to normal cyclic ones, while differences in phosphorus and zinc levels were non-significant. The findings indicate that nutritional and metabolic imbalances, particularly calcium deficiency and altered lipid and protein metabolism, play crucial roles in the occurrence of anoestrus. The study underscores the importance of mineral supplementation, balanced nutrition, and proper management to enhance reproductive efficiency and productivity in crossbred dairy herds under field conditions of Assam.

Enhancing Banana Yield and Profitability through Bunch Skirting

U. G. Thakare — 2026-05-28

Banana (Musa spp.) is a vital horticultural crop, yet achieving premium market quality remains a challenge due to biotic and abiotic stresses during bunch development. This study evaluates the multi-dimensional impact of bunch skirting technology through Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) conducted over three consecutive years (2022-2023 to 2024-25) across various villages. The primary objective was to assess the technology against traditional farmer practices (control) by measuring agronomic improvements, economic viability, and the efficacy of FLDs as an extension methodology for accelerating technology adoption. Data from 39 participating farmers (13 per year) were analyzed.

Agronomic results indicated a consistent and statistically significant improvement in fruit girth and overall yield. In 2022-23, the average yield per hectare increased by 13.16%, with similar sustained growth in subsequent years. Economically, despite an additional expenditure of Rs. 54,450/ha for skirting bags, the intervention yielded a substantially higher average Benefit-Cost (B:C) ratio compared to the control, culminating in a B:C ratio of 2.78 in 2024-25. The Incremental Cost-Benefit Ratio (ICBR) proved the investment highly lucrative. Furthermore, the extension analysis revealed that the technology significantly reduced yield variability among farmers, mitigating perceived financial risks. The sustained positive outcomes across diverse geographical micro-climates within the study area underscore skirting as a highly profitable intervention and validate the participatory FLD model for bridging the lab-to-land gap in agricultural technology.

Incidence and Prevalence of Hepatic Affections and Hepatic Space Occupying Lesions in Dogs

Indraneel Pamadi — 2026-05-28

Aims: The present study aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of hepatic affections and hepatic space-occupying lesions in dogs in Central India.

Study Design: A prospective clinical study was conducted at the Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), Jabalpur, from June 2025 to November 2025. Dogs presented during this period, irrespective of age, sex and breed, exhibiting clinical signs suggestive of hepatic disorders such as anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, weakness, icterus, ascites, and elevated serum liver enzymes were screened and included in the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Veterinary Clinical Complex, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh for a six-month period (June–November 2025).

Methodology: The dogs were assessed through clinical examination, hematobiochemical profiling, ultrasonography and confirmatory computed tomography.

Results: Out of 4973 dogs presented during the study period, 109 dogs were confirmed with hepatic affections, showing a prevalence of 2.19%, while hepatic space-occupying lesions (SOLs) showed a prevalence of 0.30%. Chronic hepatitis was the most common hepatic disorder (44.95%), followed by acute hepatitis (30.28%), hepatic SOLs (13.76%) and hepatobiliary disorders (11.01%). The most frequent clinical signs were anorexia/inappetence (87.16%), lethargy (69.73%) and vomiting (68.81%). Hepatic affections were most commonly observed in adult dogs aged 1–8 years (60.55%), whereas hepatic SOLs were predominantly recorded in geriatric dogs aged >8 years (60%). Male dogs constituted 66.06% of hepatic affection cases, while hepatic SOLs showed no significant sex predisposition. Indian Mongrels (22.01%) and Labrador Retrievers (21.10%) were the most commonly affected breeds, with Labrador Retrievers accounting for 60% of hepatic SOL cases. Hepatic tumors constituted 93.33% of SOLs.

Conclusion: Hepatic affections are relatively common in dogs presented to veterinary clinics, with chronic hepatitis being the predominant condition. Hepatic SOLs occur more frequently in geriatric dogs and are mainly neoplastic in nature. Clinical evaluation combined with advanced imaging modalities such as ultrasonography and computed tomography plays an important role in the diagnosis and characterization of hepatic lesions in dogs.

Growth Performance of HD-K75 Pigs and the Influence of Non-Genetic Factors on Body Weight at Different Ages

Aakriti Sharma — 2026-05-28

Pig farming is an important livelihood source in Northeast India, but productivity is limited by the availability of improved and well-adapted breeds. The HD-K75 pig, developed under ICAR-AICRP, combines high growth potential with local adaptability. However, growth performance is influenced by non-genetic factors such as season, sex, and parity, making their evaluation important for effective breeding and management. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the growth performance of HD-K75 pigs and to assess the effects of season of birth, sex, and parity on body weight at birth, weaning (42 days), five months, and eight months of age. Performance records of 1,416 HD-K75 pigs maintained at the nucleus herd of ICAR-All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Pigs, Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Khanapara, Guwahati were utilized. Data were analysed by least-squares analysis of variance following the model of Harvey (1990), and subclass means were compared using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The overall least-squares means (LSM ± SE) for body weight at birth, weaning, five months, and eight months of age were 1.059 ± 0.004, 11.779 ± 0.039, 45.178 ± 0.289, and 75.371 ± 0.515 kg, respectively. Season of birth exerted no significant effect on body weight at any of the ages studied. Sex had a significant influence only on birth weight, with male piglets being significantly heavier than females, whereas parity significantly affected body weight at birth and weaning but not at later ages. These findings indicate that HD-K75 pigs perform satisfactorily under the intensive management system practised at the nucleus herd and are well adapted to the agroclimatic conditions of Assam.

Analysis of Nutritional Quality Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces through Variability and Correlation Studies

Konne Deepika — 2026-05-28

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the staple crop for more than half of the world’s population and serves as a major dietary energy. However, polished rice grains are often deficient in essential Micronutrient such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and protein. Therefore, identification of genotypes possessing superior nutritional quality traits is important for rice bio-fortification programmes. To evaluate the extent of variability and the relationship among nutritional traits in rice landraces. Thirteen nutritional and grain quality traits were evaluated for genetic parameters. High GCV and PCV estimates were observed Fe content in polished rice (FEP), single plant yield (SPY) and Fe content in brown rice (FEB), indicating the existence of substantial variability among the genotypes. High heritability couples with high GAM were observed for SPY, FEB, ZNB and FEP, suggesting the predominance of additive gene action and possibility of improvement through direct selection. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlation between Zn content and Fe content in brown rice, protein content in brown rice with protein content in polished rice. The results indicated the presence of considerable variability for nutritional traits among the rice traditional genotypes, which can be effectively, utilized in future breeding programmes aimed at developing nutrient-rice rich varieties.

Economic Viability of Organic Vegetable Cultivation through Vermicompost Integration

N. Chandi Priya — 2026-05-29

Background: Organic farming systems integrated with on-farm input generation are increasingly recognised for their potential to enhance farm profitability, resource-use efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Vermicomposting, in particular, provides a cost-effective source of organic nutrients while creating an additional income stream for farmers.

Aim: This study evaluated the economic viability of organic vegetable cultivation integrated with on-farm vermicompost production under chemical-free farming conditions in Andhra Pradesh, India.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2025–2026 at the College of Horticulture, Chinalataripi, on a 784 m² vegetable cultivation area supported by a 150 m² vermicomposting unit. Nineteen vegetable crops representing cucurbits, solanaceous vegetables, leafy vegetables, tuber crops, and legumes were cultivated using exclusively organic inputs. Vermicompost was produced from locally available organic residues using Eisenia foetida earthworms. Economic indicators including gross income, net profit, benefit–cost ratio (BCR), and return on investment (ROI) were calculated.

Results: The vermicomposting unit produced 1,000 kg of vermicompost within six months, generating a net profit of Rs. 9,000 and a BCR of 1:1.82. Organic vegetable cultivation incurred an external input cost of Rs. 2,830 and generated a gross income of Rs. 22,000, resulting in a net profit of Rs. 19,170. The system achieved a BCR of 1:7.77 and an ROI of 677.4%. Leafy vegetables contributed the highest share of total income (47.5%). Integration of vermicompost production with crop cultivation increased total net income to Rs. 28,170 per season. Economic projections indicated that the model remains profitable and scalable at the one-acre level.

Conclusion: Vermicompost-integrated organic vegetable cultivation is a financially viable, environmentally sustainable, and scalable production system that can enhance farm income while reducing dependence on external inputs.

Genetic Variability, Heritability and Quality Trait Analysis in the F₂ Population of a Yellow × Red-Colored Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Cross

D. Divyabharathi — 2026-05-29

Background: Chilli is an economically important spice crop valued for its carotenoid pigments, pungency and nutraceutical properties; however, information on the inheritance of processing-quality traits in segregating populations remains limited.

Aims: To assess genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for horticultural, yield and quality traits in an F₂ population of chilli derived from the cross LCA-807 × LCA-657, with emphasis on carotenoid-related processing quality traits.

Study Design: Experimental field study using an F₂ segregating population.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted under open-field conditions at the College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh during the Summer, 2024.

Methodology: An F₂ population developed from the cross between red and yellow fruited chilli genotypes, LCA-807 and LCA-657, was evaluated for 19 morphological, biochemical and industrial-quality traits. Standard biometrical analyses were performed to estimate phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), broad-sense heritability and genetic advance to determine the extent of variability and nature of inheritance among the studied traits.

Results: The F₂ population exhibited wide phenotypic variation for growth, earliness, yield and carotenoid content, indicating extensive recombination among segregants. The highest variability was observed for red carotenoids with PCV and GCV values of 79.02% and 79.01%, respectively, followed by total colour value and dry fruit yield, suggesting strong genetic control with minimal environmental influence. High broad-sense heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for red carotenoids, total colour value, fresh fruit yield, dry fruit yield, oleoresin and ascorbic acid content, indicating the predominance of additive gene action and the effectiveness of direct selection for these traits.

Conclusion: The study revealed substantial genetic variability and strong inheritance for important yield and quality traits in the F₂ population of chilli. Traits showing high heritability and genetic advance can be effectively utilized in breeding programmes aimed at developing superior processing-type chilli genotypes with enhanced pigment concentration, yield and nutraceutical quality.

Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Zinc and Iron on Growth, Yield and Quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) var. Pusa Mukta

Ankita Sihag — 2026-05-30

Background and Aims: Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is a biennial herbaceous vegetable crop, belongs to Brassicaceae family with the diploid chromosome number 2n =2x =18. The present investigation was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur to study the effect of soil and foliar application of Zinc and Iron on growth, yield and quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.).

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted during Rabi season, 2025-26.

Methodology:The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with two factors viz. first factor: soil application (4 levels, control, ZnSO₄ @20kg/ha, FeSO₄ @20kg/ha and ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @20kg/ha) and second factor: foliar application (4 levels, control, ZnSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT, FeSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT and ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT) replicated thrice. The observed data was analyzed in OPSTAT.

Results: The results revealed significant differences among the factors and interactions. Among the treatment combination Superior growth, yield, quality parameters viz. maximum plant height (31.16 cm), plant spread (57.4 cm), minimum number of non-wrapper leaves per plant (10.343), maximum leaf area (953.38 cm²), head diameter (15.08 cm), minimum days taken to head initiation (51.27), head maturity (76.75), maximum fresh weight of head (1080.26 g), yield per plot (36.053 kg), total yield per hectare (52.03 t/ha), total soluble solids (7.44 ⁰Brix), ascorbic acid content (41.22 mg/100g) and chlorophyll content in leaves (74.37) were observed in the treatment combination of ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 20 kg/ha X ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 100 ppm at 25 days after transplanting (M₄T₄) whereas the minimum was observed in control.

Conclusion: Although these results are only indicative and require further experimentation to arrive at more consistent and credible conclusion, the treatment ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 20 kg/ha X ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 100 ppm at 25 days after transplanting (M₄T₄) may be recommended for obtaining higher yield and superior quality of Cabbage.

Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Mustard in Relation to Weather Variables in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India

Saurabh Yadav — 2026-05-30

Mustard is an important rabi oilseed crop in India that is attacked by several major insect pests such as aphid, sawfly, cabbage butterfly, and painted bug, which cause significant yield losses. Their population dynamics are strongly influenced by weather factors like temperature and relative humidity, making it important to study their seasonal incidence for better pest management and forecasting. The present investigation was conducted at the Entomology Research Farm, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh during the rabi season of 2022–23 to study the seasonal incidence of major insect pests of mustard in relation to weather variables. Mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi first appeared during the 48^th SMW and attained peak population (185.06 aphids/10 cm central shoot) during the 6^th SMW. Mustard sawfly, Athalia lugens proxima reached peak population of 8.29 larvae/plant during the 7^th SMW, while cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae and painted bug, Bagrada hilaris recorded maximum populations of 2.36 larvae/plant and 5.33 bugs/plant during the 6^th and 4^th SMW, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed that aphid population showed significant negative correlation with maximum (r = -0.599; p<0.05) and minimum temperature (r = -0.614; p<0.05), while painted bug also exhibited significant negative correlation with maximum (r = -0.768; p<0.01) and minimum temperature (r = -0.725; p<0.01). Evening relative humidity showed positive association with aphid (r = 0.558; p<0.05) and painted bug (r = 0.683; p<0.01) populations. The study indicated that weather parameters considerably influenced pest population dynamics in mustard crop.