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- Effects of urine and hygienized feces on cocoa production in the village
of Blanfla (Bouafle, Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Yapi Ellélé Aimé Marius , N’Krumah Tanoh Amany Serge Raymond, Gnagne Théophile
Pages: 327 - 337
Abstract: Ecological sanitation involves the use of hygienized human excreta as fertilizer in agriculture. This study aimed to establish the effects of hygienized urine and feces on cocoa production in the village of Blanfla in the Bouaflé Department of Côte d'Ivoire. To this end, 539 people from 100 households were trained in the use of urine-diverting dry toilets (UDDTs) and in fertilizing cocoa plantations with hygienized excreta from UDDTs. The study ran from 2014 to 2017, during which time 6 months were spent building the TSDUs and 1.5 months were monitoring their use. For 2 years, three categories of plantations (young, mature and old) with a total surface area of 285 ha were fertilized by the application of almost 445 m3 of urine and 100 tonnes of hygienized feces. The quantity of biofertilizer applied to the three groups of plantations almost doubled the annual cocoa production (RP=1.95). In all three plantation categories, crop production was significantly associated with BF application (r = 0.993; p = 0.007/r = 0.975; p = 0.025) but not with temperature or rainfall. The use of hygienized urine and feces as biofertilizers through the ecological sanitation approach should be popularized, as it increases agricultural productivity and farmer incomes.
PubDate: 2024-02-27
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25602723
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Inoculation with PSB (phosphate-solubilizing bacteria) or Rhizobium in
combination with NPK influenced the yield, quality and soil parameters of
field pea
Authors: Boreddy Jagadeeswar Reddy, Suhail Fayaz, Tauseef Ahmad Bhat, Shailja Sharma, Navjot Rana, Aniket Verma, Akanksha Raina, Manya Singh
Pages: 338 - 346
Abstract: The yield and quality of field pea are directly influenced by inoculation of Rhizobium and PSB with NPK, which increase various parameters, such as the yield and quality of field pea. This research was conducted during the Rabi season in 2022-2023 at Lovely Professional University in the Punjab region of India. The yields of pea grain and stover are greatly increased by the use of 100% RDF (the recommended dose of fertilizer) with PSB and Rhizobium. In addition to the combination of Rhizobium, PSB and NPK increased the harvest index of field pea. The protein content and number of nodules were strongly affected by this treatment, which was more beneficial than the other treatments. Overall, the net return was greater in T7 (100% RDF+ PSB + Rhizobium). In addition, in comparison with the other treatments, available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium also had positive effects on T7.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25672727
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Enhancement of bioethanol production from lignocellulosic biomass of
banana by single batch fermentation using Saccharomyces cerevisiae and
native microorganism
Authors: Athul Shaji, Swapna Alex, Ann M. George, Deepa S. Nair , Aparna B., Soni K.B.
Pages: 347 - 355
Abstract: Bioethanol production using the lignocellulosic biomass of banana viz., banana raw peel, ripe peel and pseudostem were attempted. Among the three feed stocks, maximum total reducing sugar content of 21.98% was observed in the banana ripe peel. Pretreatments of the feed stocks with acid resulted in higher lignin removal and increased total reducing sugar content compared to the alkali treatment. Separate Hydrolysis and Fermentation (SHF), Simultaneous Saccharification and Fermentation (SSF) and Single Batch Bioconversion (SBB) were carried out for the fermentation process using Saccharomyces cerevisiae. By SSF fermentation processs, 6.63% of ethanol was produced by Saccharomyces cerevisiae from the untreated samples of banana raw peel. Enhancement of bioethanol production was done using a native cellulolytic microorganism isolated from the degraded banana samples. Using the native microorganism along with Saccharomyces cerevisiae in SBB resulted in 6.88% of bioethanol conversion. This is the first report of using native microorganism for enhanced degradation of cellulose in banana biomass for higher bioethanol production.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26002747
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Continuous application of chemical fertilizers and organics influenced the
soil chemical properties and zinc content of rice in the vertisols of the
Chhattisgarh Plain
Authors: Chhaviraj Baghel, Alok Tiwari, Vinay Bachkaiya
Pages: 356 - 361
Abstract: An experiment was carried out in rice crop on Vertisol (locally called as Kanhar) at research farm of College of Agriculture, IGKV, Raipur, during kharif 2019-20 entitled “Continuous application of chemical fertilizers and organics influenced the soil chemical properties and zinc content of rice in the vertisols of the Chhattisgarh Plain”. This study comprised of ten treatments: control (no fertilizer), 50% NPK (suboptimal dose), 100% NPK (optimal dose), 150% NPK (super optimal dose) and 100% NPK along with ZnSO4 @ 10 kg/ha, 100% NP, 100% N alone, 100% NPK along with farmyard manure @ 5t/ha, 50% NPK along with blue green algae @ 10 kg/ha and 50% NPK along with green manure @ 40 kg/ha. The experiment was laid out at randomized complete block design which was replicated four times. Long term effect of continuous application of chemical fertilizers and organic manures significantly influenced the physico-chemical properties viz. highest “organic carbon (0.67%) available N (252 kg/ha), P (29 kg/ha) and K (425 kg/ha) in 100% NPK + FYM and lowest was obtained under control treatment (0.45% OC), (177 N kg/ha), (10.1 P kg/ha) and (368 K kg/ha), respectively. The addition of farm yard manure and NPK also reduces soil acidity compared to NPK use alone. Among the treatment of 150% NPK accumulated more total soluble salts end of this treatment could be attributed to low residue will effect of fertilizers and nutrient removal by crop.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25492736
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Heterosis studies and molecular characterization of three-line rice
hybrids
Authors: Ravi Kumar, Ravi Kant, M. Vennela, D. Dinesh Varma
Pages: 362 - 369
Abstract: The present investigation was undertaken at the Hybrid Rice plot of TCA, Dholi, and Muzaffarpur, and molecular analysis was conducted in the Molecular Laboratory of Postgraduate Dept. of Genetics & Plant Breeding, RPCAU, and Bihar to generate heterosis studies for 18 traits and molecular characterization using SSR markers. The experimental material comprised 31 three-line rice hybrids and 3 commercial checks evaluated in the RBD design. Among the tested varieties, Rajendra Sweta performed best in terms of grain yield per plant. Two rice hybrid genotypes, namely, IR68897A × KMR-3R and Rajendra-3A × RRR–4, exhibited superior standard heterosis over all three tests for trait grain yield per plant. By utilizing 12 primer pairs, a total of 33 shared alleles and 13 unique alleles were produced as amplified products. Among the 12 primers, seven primers were found to be comparatively informative for all nineteen hybrids and eleven parents. Only five primers, namely, MRG2894, RM515, RM520, RM538, and RM555, were able to confirm the hybridity (F1) with the respective parental lines.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25982744
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Impact and selectivity of insecticides on groundnut predators
Authors: Madhuri Burjikindi, Rohini Sugandi, Subhash B. Kandakoor, B. S. Yenagi, Kolli Bharghavi
Pages: 370 - 375
Abstract: Predatory arthropods play a crucial role in mitigating the impact of insect pests. However, the use of broad-spectrum insecticides in pest management methods can pose a threat to predator populations. In response to the need for safer and more selective insecticides that spare natural enemies, an effort was made to know the diversity of predatory fauna and effect of seed dressers and foliar spraying insecticides on coccinellids and spiders at the Main Agricultural Research Station in Dharwad, Karnataka, during the summer 2021 and 2022. The treatments included four seed treatments, four seed treatments in combination with foliar spray, two foliar sprays alone, and an untreated control. Predator numbers were recorded at 45 and 65 days after sowing (DAS), selecting 20 plants randomly in all treatments. The results demonstrated that during the summer 2021 and 2022, seed treatment with chlorpyriphos 20EC was identified as safe, exhibiting the highest number of coccinellids (0.55 and 1.33 per plant) and spiders (0.54 and 1.62 per plant), respectively. These results were statistically comparable to other treatments like, seed treatment with imidacloprid 60 FS (0.49 and 1.00 coccinellids per plant) (0.48 and 1.38 spiders per plant), thiamethoxam 30 FS (0.45 and 0.95 coccinellids per plant) (0.44 and 1.22 spiders per plant) during 2021 and 2022 summer, respectively, ranking just below the untreated control. A significant difference in the population of coccinellids and spiders was observed among all the treatments, with seed-treated plants recording the highest predatory populations compared to foliar-sprayed plants. Consequently, the study concludes that seed treatment chemicals prove to be safer for predators while still effectively providing necessary pest control. This highlights the potential of integrating such seed treatment methods into pest management strategies to enhance overall efficacy while minimizing adverse effects on beneficial predator populations.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26202756
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Evaluation of DNA quality and molecular observation of Nile tilapia
(Oreochromis niloticus) from Limpopo Province, South Africa
Authors: Mehrnoush Aminisarteshnizi, Ngonidzashe A. G. Moyo
Pages: 376 - 383
Abstract: In this study, the ability of the Quick-DNA™ Tissue/Insect Miniprep Kit and Chelex® methods to extract DNA from O. niloticus skin, muscle, and gill tissue was compared. The quantity and purity of the DNA were measured with a NanoDrop spectrophotometer. Based on the results obtained, it appears that the DNA extracted using the Kit has good quality based on A260/280 (1.67–1.98), and the Chelex method (1.52-1.81) was acceptable. ANOVA for the amount of nucleic acid revealed a significant difference between muscle and skin with gill tissue (P < 0.05). However, the skin of O. niloticus subjected to both methods was the best at extracting DNA (1.89-1.81). The extracted DNA was also studied by 28S ribosomal DNA and COI of mitochondrial DNA genes. Phylogenetic analysis based on 28S rDNA and COI of mtDNA placed the South African population of O. niloticus in a clade with other related species with a posterior probability value of 1.00. Finally, the molecular results showed that 28S ribosomal DNA is a suitable marker for the identification of O. niloticus. In conclusion, precise identification of O. niloticus is critical for breeding for farmers and commercial sectors.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25332708
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Study on diversity of Odonata (Dragonflies and Damselflies) fauna of
Lohara lake, District-Chandrapur (M.S), India
Authors: Bibha Ishwar Gain, Rajlaxmi Ranrag Kulkarni
Pages: 384 - 387
Abstract: Odonates are prominent freshwater insects and play a crucial role in ecosystem functioning as biological indicator of environmental quality. The expansion of urban areas in combination with climate change places great pressure on species found in freshwater habitats. Odonata are iconic freshwater organisms due to their large body sizes and striking coloration. Odonata are hemimetabolous insects, the aquatic larva or nymph hatches from an egg, develops instars before leaving the water and emerging as the winged imago. Thermal tolerance affects Odonates physiology like life process such as growth rate, immune system and pigment. The study was carried out for 12 months from January 2022 to December 2022 in and around Lohara Lake. The objective of this study is to assess the diversity of Odonata species and the impact of temperature on two Odonates families Libelluidae and Coenagrionidae in Lohara Lake. In the present investigation, total 12 species were identified belonging to 11 genera and 2 families. Anisoptera (dragonflies) dominant over Zygoptera (damselflies). Among Anisoptera, 8 species belong to family Libelluidae and in Zygoptera, 4 species belong to family Coenagrionidae.The minimum and maximum temperature of the site was 16°C and 44°C, respectively.
PubDate: 2024-01-10
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26622640
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Response of maize to the combined application of innovative organic and
inorganic sources of nutrients in an acid Alfisol of lower Himalayas
Authors: Rushali Katoch, Vijay Kumar Sharma, Narender Sankhyan
Pages: 388 - 397
Abstract: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a high-yielding crop with remarkable productivity potential. However, realizing this potential heavily relies on efficient nutrient management. To optimize maize growth and yield, it is crucial to employ appropriate combinations of organic and inorganic sources of nutrients. Thus, the combined application of nutrients in an integrated manner consistently ensures higher and more stable crop yields. In the Kharif season of 2019, a field experiment was conducted at the Soil Science Experimental Farm of CSK HPKV, Palampur, focusing on the impact of combining organic and inorganic sources of nutrients on maize hybrid. The experiment was performed in accordance with a randomized block design, with ten different treatments replicated three times. The findings revealed that the maize crop responded significantly to various nutrient sources. Among the treatments tested, the combined application of Sagarika (both soil and foliar) along with water soluble fertilizers (18:18:18) and 75% NPK resulted in the highest grain (5.7 t/ha) and stover yields (8.8 t/ha) of maize. Additionally, this treatment exhibited superior results in terms of cob length (17.90 cm), cob diameter (4.31 cm), number of grains per cob (470), and test weight (32.77 g), surpassing all other treatments. In contrast, the lowest values (16.07 cm, 4.24 cm, 378 and 27.96 g for cob length, cob diameter, number of grains per cob, and test weight, respectively) were observed with the application of 75% NPK alone. Furthermore, optimizing nutrient doses through synergistic integration of organic and inorganic sources also improved the leaf nutrient status as well as the total nutrient uptake of a crop.
PubDate: 2024-03-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26402773
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Avian diversity in the Rawanwadi Reservoir in District Bhandara,
Maharashtra, India
Authors: Shishir Homraj Makade, Pravin M. Telkhade , Chandrashekhar Dongarwar
Pages: 398 - 401
Abstract: The variation in bird variety over geography and time is a common indicator for assessing environmental changes. Traditionally, such data was gathered by experienced observers, but passively collect acoustic data is quickly developing as a viable alternative survey technique. Now-a-days, avifaunal diversity has been decline due to the demolition of natural habitation. The aim of the study to identify avifaunal diversity of Rawanwadi reservoir, Rawamwadi District Bhandara, investigation period was from month of November 2020 to October 2022, in and around of Rawanwadi Reservoir. In the present investigation, a total of 39 species of birds were spotted during the current inquiry near the Rawanwadi reservoir. Based on their habitat, such as Residential Common, Winter Visitor, and Uncommon, the birds were divided into different groups. The Avifaunal diversity have been categories in diverse group’s position on their regular migratory habitat residential are as migratory winter traveler, internal migratory visitor, external migratory visitors and external emigratory visitors.
PubDate: 2024-01-15
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26722648
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Tiny defenders: Isolating antibiotic producers from soil samples
Authors: Aparajita Gupta, Sachin Pandey, Himanshu Upadhyay
Pages: 402 - 408
Abstract: This study explored the soil as a rich source of microorganisms capable of creating novel antibacterial chemicals in an effort to address the growing problem of antibiotic resistance. The isolation process involved careful collection and laboratory cultivation of a variety of soil samples from garbage, gardens, and agricultural settings. The techniques used for characterization included biochemical examination of metabolic characteristics, spore staining, lactophenol cotton blue staining, and Gram-tag staining. Using the well diffusion technique, the antibiotic-producing capacities of the strains were evaluated. Notable antibacterial activity was found for four bacterial isolates (B2, B5, B6, and B9) and seven fungal strains (2F, 3F, 4F, 5F, 7F, 9F, 10F, and 11F). Precise soil sampling and complex microbe cultivation and characterization are major obstacles. The unique aspect of the work is how well antibiotic-producing bacteria were isolated and described from a variety of soil samples, underscoring the possibility of using natural habitats as sources of novel antimicrobial agents. The detected antibacterial activity emphasizes how crucial it is to carry out additional research to combat antibiotic resistance. This study provides opportunities for additional research into the unexplored potential of soil microorganisms for the development of novel antimicrobial agents.
PubDate: 2024-02-20
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.24372658
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Effect of plant growth regulators on the early growth of tissue cultured
banana plants (cv. Grand Naine)
Authors: Prahlad Deb, Dhananjay Sinha
Pages: 409 - 419
Abstract: The present study investigated the effects of several growth regulators on the early growth of banana plants (cv. Grand Naine) at Horticultural Farm, Department of Horticulture and Post-Harvest Technology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharti, Srinikatan, West Bengal, during 2021-2022. Six different combinations of two growth regulators, viz. GA3 (100, 150 and 200 ppm) and NAA (50 and 100 ppm) were used in combination with a control treatment (no growth regulators) in three replications under a randomized block design. According to the final observation taken at 75 DAP, the maximum plant height (56.33 cm), number of leaves/plant (8.47), and pseudostem diameter (25.72 cm) were observed under T5 (GA3 @ 150 ppm + NAA @ 100 ppm). The greatest sizes with respect to total leaf length (36.71 cm), leaf lamina length (28.06 cm) and breadth were also observed under the same treatment. Thus, the performance of banana plants at an early stage was markedly influenced by the application of different growth regulators, and the combination of GA3 @ 150 ppm and NAA @ 100 ppm was the most effective combination of plant growth regulators for improved growth and development of tissue-cultured banana plants.
PubDate: 2024-03-01
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25972743
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Toxicological health risk through groundwater uranium exposure for
different age groups in the Chandrapur district, Maharashtra
Authors: Pooja B. Matte, Kavita S. Raipurkar
Pages: 420 - 433
Abstract: Overexploitation and pollution of groundwater are one the reasons for its contamination. In this context, natural uranium contamination in groundwater is of more concern due to its toxicological risk. In this research carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risks due to uranium contamination were evaluated referring standard equations given by United State Environmental Protection Agency and compared with the guidelines prescribed by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) and World Health Organization (WHO). While conducting this research 116 groundwater samples were collected from 15 talukas of Chandrapur district and analyzed for uranium using LED fluorimeter. The concentration of uranium was found between 0.02 µg/L to 417.74 µg/L. Additionally, during this investigation carcinogenic and noncarcinogenic risk for 10-year children and 70-year adult was calculated. Excess Cancer Risk (ECR) values for children were in the range between 8.26E-09 to 1.40E-04 for mortality and 8.26E-09 to 1.40E-04 for morbidity. ECR for 70-year adult was found to be in the range of 7.19E-08 to 1.22E-03 for mortality and 1.17E-07 to 1.99E-03 for morbidity. Thus, 8.62% of the adults showed ECR for mortality and 12.06% for morbidity and were above the guidelines of AERB. For children, both mortality and morbidity values were below the standard. The noncarcinogenic risks (LADD) for adults and children were found in 6.89% samples. The HQ for adult and children was observed in 6.89% and 7.75% samples, respectively and was above the guidelines of WHO. The Annual Effective Dose was below the guideline of WHO for both life stages. Thus, in this investigation out of 116 samples 15 samples were above the permissible guidelines of WHO for uranium. On the basis of ECR, LADD and HQ values adults are more exposed to the carcinogenic effects as compared to the children but children are more exposed to chemotoxical effects than the radiological effects.
PubDate: 2024-01-15
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26752651
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Impact of different intercrops on the incidence of insect pests in cabbage
Authors: Rajneesh Kumar Verma , Sameer Kumar Singh, Umesh Chandra, Kamal Ravi Sharma
Pages: 434 - 442
Abstract: In India, cabbage is attacked by approximately 35 insect pests; due to the high nutritional value and succulent nature of cabbage, it has attracted the attention of several insect pests. Monocultures are low-diversity agroecosystems that may be more prone to outbursts of pests. The present study aimed to determine the impact of different intercrops on the incidence of insect pests on cabbage. The outcomes revealed that during Rabi 2021-22, populations of Plutella xylostella and Spodoptera litura were recorded for the first time during the 51st standard meteorological week (SMW). The incidence of aphids was first recorded in the 2nd SMW and reached the maximum level in the 8th SMW along with P. xylostella and S. litura. The lowest incidence of P. xylostella and aphids was recorded in the T6-Cabbage + Coriander treatment (2:2), followed by the T5-Cabbage + Coriander treatment (2:1); the maximum incidence of P. xylostella and aphids was observed in the T3-Cabbage+ Radish treatment (2:1), and all the intercropping treatments were superior to those used for the sole cabbage crop, with the maximum incidence of P. xylostella. The lowest incidence of S. litura T6-Cabbage + Coriander (2:2) was followed by T5-Cabbage + Coriander (2:1), and the maximum incidence of S. litura was observed in the T1-Cabbage + Onion treatment (2:1). The yield was the highest in the T6-Cabbage+ Coriander (2:2) treatment (257.33 q/ha main crop, 3.30 q/ha), followed by the T5-Cabbage+ Coriander 2:1 treatment (233.33 q/ha main crop, 1.83 q/ha) and the T3-Cabbage+ Radish treatment (2:1) (197.33 q/ha main crop, 25.32 q/ha).
PubDate: 2024-03-01
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26022746
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Evaluation of teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) stands for establishing seed
production areas in West Bengal
Authors: Animesh Sinha, Ayushman Malakar, Sushit Banerjee, Obaidullah Ehrar, Jay Prakash Hembrom
Pages: 443 - 451
Abstract: Long-term afforestation programmes are continuously practiced by State Forest Departments (SFDs) to increase forest cover in India. A large quantity of quality seeds is required for producing quality planting materials every year. The development of seed production areas (SPAs) is a method that can be used to obtain genetically improved seeds for immediate planting. Teak (Tectona grandis Linn. f) is one of the species preferred by SFDs in India for plantation purposes due to its high timber value. Previously, the Directorate of Forests, West Bengal, established ten Seed Stands (SSs) of teak in three Silviculture divisions of West Bengal. In the present study, these SSs (five SSs in the Hills Division, four SSs in the North Plains Division and one SS in the South Division) were evaluated by verification on the basis of area, tree density, isolation zone and tree health. SSs were studied thoroughly to recommend culling inferior trees to convert them to SPAs. Trees with poor phenotypic characteristics, such as slow growth, crooked stem form, attack by pest or disease, were recommended for culling. Out of the ten SSs, five (2/TG/BAMON, 3/TG/BAMON, 3/TG/TUKR, 8/TG/REHTI and 9/TG/ATIA) were considered to be SPAs. Cumulatively, 8.86 hectares of land with 829 trees from the hills division and 15 ha of land with 1712 trees from the North Plains division were chosen for inclusion in the SPAs. Phenotypic data estimation revealed that the maximum average height was 8/TG/REHTI (33.19±2.65 m), and the average GBH was 2/TG/BAMON (2.02±0.54 m). The seed production capability of the selected SPAs was also calculated. On the basis of the average seed yield/tree, the 8/TG/REHTI stand produced the highest seed yield of 2.0 (±0.9) kg/tree.
PubDate: 2024-03-01
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25822735
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Plant disease detection using leaf images and an involutional neural
network
Authors: Priyanka Pradhan, Brajesh Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Rakesh Bhutiani
Pages: 452 - 462
Abstract: The human population and domestic animals rely heavily on agriculture for their food and livelihood. Agriculture is an important contributor to the national economy of many countries. Plant diseases lead to a significant reduction in agricultural yield, posing a threat to global food security. It is crucial to detect plant diseases in a timely manner to prevent economic losses. Expert diagnosis and pathogen analysis are widely used for the detection of diseases in plants. However, both expert diagnosis and pathogen analysis rely on the real-time investigation experience of experts, which is prone to errors. In this work, an image analysis-based method is proposed for detecting and classifying plant diseases using an involution neural network and self-attention-based model. This method uses digital images of plant leaves and identifies diseases on the basis of image features. Different diseases affect leaf characteristics in different ways; therefore, their visual patterns are highly useful in disease recognition. For rigorous evaluation of the method, leaf images of different crops, including apple, grape, peach, cherry, corn, pepper, potato, and strawberry, are taken from a publicly available PlantVillage dataset to train the developed model. The experiments are not performed separately for different crops; instead, the model is trained to work for multiple crops. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method performed well, with an average classification accuracy of approximately 98.73% (κ = 98.04) for 8 different crops with 23 classes. The results are also compared with those of several existing methods, and it is found that the proposed method outperforms the other methods considered in this work.
PubDate: 2024-04-30
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.28142024
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Preliminary study of fish diversity in Borda Dam, Taluka Wani, District
Yavatmal (M.S.), India
Authors: Patharde Sandesh Baburao, Telkhade Pravin Madhukarrao
Pages: 463 - 466
Abstract: Fresh water is essential to human society and the survival of all terrestrial ecosystems. Despite the fact that India possesses a diverse range of fresh water resources, most systems are under pressure from anthropogenic activity, posing major threats to fish diversity. As a result, conservation and management are vital to the interests of all persons, nations, and governments, and thus the current research. Present research work done from November 2021 to October 2022. Approximately 17 species were collected and identified during the study of the Borda dam, belonging to 7 orders, 9 families, and 16 genera. Among them, 5 species were belong to the Order Cypriniformes, and Siluriformes each, 3 species to Order Perciformes, while the Orders Osteoglossiformes, Synbranchiformes, Beloniformes and Cichliformes comprises single species. As a result, the findings of our current study will provide significant information about the diversity of fish fauna in the Borda dam, which will be used in the future for monitoring, fisheries management, and conservation.
PubDate: 2024-01-15
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26742650
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Optimization of in vitro pollen storage conditions in seeded and
low-seeded citrus genotypes
Authors: Kunzang Lamo, Anil Kumar Sangwan , Navprem Singh, Manveen Kaur Batth
Pages: 467 - 482
Abstract: An in vitro pollen storage study was conducted using pollen from three seeded citrus plant genotypes, viz., ‘Mexican lime’, ‘W’. Murcott’ and ‘Mosambi’ and five seedlesscitrus genotypes, viz., ‘Lisbon lemon’, ‘Jaffa’, ‘Clementine’, ‘Hamlin’ and ‘Mukaku Kishu’. Pollen viability and germination percentage were evaluated at different storage temperature treatments, i.e., at room temperature (in anhydrous calcium chloride) (control), in a refrigerator at 4°C, in a freezer (-20°C), and in a freeze drier (-80°C). The viability of the pollen plants was tested with an acetocarmine stain (2%). Among all the tested sucrose concentrations (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25%) for in vitro pollen germination, the 15% sucrose concentration had the highest effect on pollen germination. The results showed significant differences in pollen viability and germination under different storage temperature conditions. The pooled data revealed that, among the seeded genotypes, W. Murcotts showed the maximum mean viability and germination percentage (67.86% and 60.88%, respectively) after 48 weeks of storage at -80°C, and the minimum values were observed for Mexican lime (46.57% and 33.71%, respectively). However, in the low-seeded genotype, Mukaku Kishu had the maximum mean pollen viability and germination (71.52% and 64.07%, respectively) after 48 weeks of storage at -80°C, and the lowest values were observed in Jaffa (39.36% and 28.08%, respectively). The results indicate that the freeze drier storage temperature (-80°C) had the greatest effect on retaining pollen viability and germination in both the seeded and low-seeded genotypes. However, a progressive decrease in pollen viability and germination rate was observed with increasing duration at all storage temperatures, reaching a minimum at 48 weeks after storage. However, the reduction in pollen storage ability was greatest at room temperature and 40°C. Pollen grains stored at low temperatures (-80°C and -20°C) showed good viability and germination percentage compared with those stored at room temperature and 4°C.
PubDate: 2024-02-25
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25182699
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Constraints and challenges of fish farmers with a recirculatory
aquaculture system (RAS) in Haryana State, India
Authors: Paramveer Singh, Rachna Gulati, Reecha Sharma, Ashutosh Lowanshi
Pages: 483 - 487
Abstract: The present study was conducted with the aim of examining the most relevant constraints, challenges, and experiences of RAS fish farmers in the state of Haryana state of India. Over the course of a year, extensive surveys were conducted among 20 RAS farms in various districts of the Haryana Region, i.e., Ambala, Bhiwani, Fatehabad, Gurgaon, Hisar, Jind, Kaithal, Karnal, Rohtak, Rewari, and Sonipat. These farmers were interviewed face to face using a questionnaire that combined closed- and open-ended questions to gather valuable insight. The results revealed several common constraints faced by RAS farmers in Haryana. The most significant challenges that farmers faced included disease outbreaks (50%), seed quality issues (45%), lack of knowledge about RAS (35%), and misguidance (5%). Additionally, farmers reported difficulties in seed transportation (10%), and approximately 70% of the farmers emphasized the critical need for specialized training in RAS operations. Moreover, 50% of the farmers considered the lack of information regarding suitable fish species for RAS to be a major problem. In terms of RAS equipment, drum filters (35%) and MBBR media (30%) were the most common malfunctioning components for fish farmers, while 55% of the farmers experienced no default in their RAS systems. Moreover, this research revealed that Haryana farmers are interested in the adoption of RAS technology and are interested in a prototype farm with professional guidance to promote its adoption.
PubDate: 2024-02-27
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25522716
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Biochemical analysis of the life stages of Oecophylla smaragdina (weaver
ant)
Authors: Sunanda B. Kumre
Pages: 488 - 492
Abstract: The Asian weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragdina, indeed exhibits fascinating social behavior and a unique nesting strategy. The nesting behavior of weaver ants involves a "leaf-weaving," process where the worker ants use the silk produced by their larvae to bind leaves together, creating a complex and sturdy nest structure. Regarding their life stages and metabolic changes, Oecophylla smaragdina as a holometabolous species undergoes complete metamorphosis, involving distinct developmental stages such as egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Each stage is characterized by significant changes in the insect's physiology and appearance. It is essential to study the metabolic changes in these ants during their life stages to better understand their development, behavior, and adaptability to their environment. The main objective of the present study is a biochemical analysis of the life stages of the weaver ant. During this study, various ants were collected at various stages and analyzed for the estimation of protein, carbohydrate, RNA, and DNA. According to the findings, the concentration of proteins was observed to be highest during all life stages of weaver ants. Following proteins, the concentration of RNA was noted to be the highest, then the concentration of DNA and carbohydrates. It was also noted that the concentration of biomolecules increased from the egg stage to the pupal stage, reaching its maximum level at the pupal stage. However, after reaching the maximum level at the pupal stage, the concentration of biomolecules declines as the ant progresses from the white imago to the adult stage.
PubDate: 2024-01-16
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26792656
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- A rapid and effective catalytic pathway for the synthesis of thiazine
derivatives employing Zno nanoparticles
Authors: Raksha Parag Dhankar, Varsha Vitthalrao Bankar , Manisha Shankar Aswale
Pages: 493 - 499
Abstract: A sustainable approach has been successfully developed for the synthesis of thiazine derivatives, utilizing an efficient catalytic method. ZnO nanoparticles have demonstrated remarkable catalytic prowess, offering cost-effectiveness, heightened yields, and reduced reaction durations. This method presents a direct, environmentally conscious, gentle, and easily applicable pathway to producing a range of thiazine compounds. Following the completion of the reaction, the catalyst can be reused without a discernible decrease in its effectiveness, thereby establishing this process as both cost-efficient and eco-friendly. The structural authenticity of all synthesized compounds (3a-j) has been proved through 1H-NMR, elemental analysis, FT-IR, 13C NMR, and mass spectral data. This innovative and green approach toward synthesizing the thiazine derivatives emphasizes a perspective by controlling the catalytic potential of ZnO nanoparticles. Its noteworthy advantages lie in its ability to enhance shortens reaction times, yield, and reduce costs, while also promoting environmental sustainability. The ease and simplicity of implementation further highlight its potential as a viable method in the production of thiazine compounds. The recycling capability of the catalyst ensures sustained cost-effectiveness by reducing the ecological impact of the overall process thus providing a significant advantage to the synthetic pathway. This eco-friendly method not only contributes to a more sustainable chemical synthesis approach but also offers a promising pathway for further developments in the production of thiazine derivatives, proving its efficacy through both in its verification of synthesized compound structures and environmental considerations. The antimicrobial screening as antibacterial and antifungal were tested against the three pathogenic bacteria and two fungal pathogens. The antimicrobial properties of the compounds range from strong to moderate.
PubDate: 2024-01-16
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26782654
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Preliminary investigation into mud-puddling behavior in Appias spp.
(Albatross Butterflies) at Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary, India
Authors: Jabir Athamanakath, Vishnu S. Moorchilot , Lekshmi Raveendran, Sylas V.P., S. Jayakumar
Pages: 500 - 508
Abstract: Butterflies represent one of the most popular and readily identifiable insect taxa. The annual migration of Appias spp. (Albatross butterflies) is common in the Aralam Wildlife Sanctuary (AWS), India. During migration, the butterflies moving along the stream course often settle down in masses across a mud-puddling site. This study sheds light on the multifaceted interplay between soil parameters and the mud-puddling aggregation behavior observed in Albatross butterflies within the AWS. The results revealed no significant differences in most soil nutrients between the mud-puddling sites (MS) and control sites (CS). However, the moisture content and available sodium content were significantly greater in the MS treatment (p = 0.0003 and p = 0.002, respectively). Hence, more moisture (avg_35.95% in MS than avg_0.99% in CS) and more sodium (avg_34 mg/kg in MS than avg_15.11 mg/kg in CS) were found to play significant roles in the behavior of certain species, such as A. albina, A. wardii, and A. lyncida. The majority of the tested soil parameters exhibited weak correlations with the density of butterflies (the r values of pH, moisture, N, C, S, Cu, Cd, Zn and Mn were -0.48, -0.59, -0.35, -0.30, -0.36, +0.16, -0.18, -0.18 and -0.005, respectively). Notably, sodium and potassium were the sole minerals exhibiting a strong positive correlation with the density of mud-puddling Appias spp. (r = +0.78 and r = +0.77, respectively), emphasizing the significance of sodium and potassium in shaping the density of Albatrosses engaged in mud-puddling behavior. Many butterflies employ visual cues to locate these resources. Hence, this study also explored the preference of Appias spp. for conspecific paper decoys for directing butterflies to puddle sites. The presence of conspecific decoys noticeably drew butterflies, underscoring the significance of visual cues in butterfly behavior. Additional studies in this domain could enhance our understanding of butterfly ecology and the mechanisms governing their decision-making processes.
PubDate: 2024-03-01
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25752732
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Assessment of air quality around the thermal power plant area, Chandrapur,
Maharashtra, India
Authors: Vivek Surendra Manik, Swapnil Kisanrao Gudadhe
Pages: 509 - 515
Abstract: Air is the critical main constituent of life on the earth due to respiration phenomenon. Chandrapur city is well known for mining activity and industrial area. Thermal power plant, mining activities, factories and so many industries are established in Chandrapur district. Present study examines the ambient air quality around the thermal power plant for compliance parameters viz; Particulate Matter less than 10 microns and 2.5 microns size (i.e., PM10 and PM2.5), as well as gaseous pollutants like Sulphur Dioxide (SO2), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOX), Ozone (O3), Ammonia (NH3), specific contaminant pollutants involving Hydrocarbons (HCs) and Carbon Monoxide (CO), and heavy metals such as Nickel (Ni), Lead (Pb), Arsenic (As), and Benzo [a] pyrene (BaP) at different areas around Thermal Power Plant, Chandrapur, Maharashtra (India). The National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) 2009 was compared to the resultant situations. The results showed that although the levels of toxins and other pollutants near the thermal power plant were designed to be below permissible limits, they are nonetheless at alarmingly high levels from a health perspective.
PubDate: 2024-01-16
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26772653
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Homestay-tourism - A viable alternative to the perils of overtourism in
the Darjeeling hills of West Bengal, India
Authors: Shomnath Dutta, Debabrata Mukhopadhyay
Pages: 516 - 531
Abstract: The highly popular tourist destination Darjeeling, lovingly named the ‘Queen of Hills’, has been facing the menace of excessive and unrestricted tourism development due to massive tourist influx throughout the year. This has resulted in ecological degradation in terms of the proliferation of multistoried buildings, unchecked felling of trees, piles of garbage, increased road networks on wobbly hillsides, unbridled tinkering with the social structure of hilly ethnic communities, etc. Homestay-based tourism can offer a sustainable solution to the perils of overtourism in Darjeeling hills, not only by preaching and following responsible tourism practices but also by diverting a substantial portion of tourist inflow to various unexplored virgin areas of Darjeeling hills, thereby playing a balancing role among tourism, the environment and economic development of the local populace and the region altogether. The present study aims to address these concerns and propose effective suggestions and recommendations to meaningfully contribute to the sustainable socioeconomic growth of this region suffering from problems of unemployment, poverty, illiteracy and inadequate infrastructure through the effective utilization of the opportunity presented by homestay tourism, which makes use of the 4Rs of sustainable tourism, i.e., reduce, reuse, recycle and regulate. The study concludes that homestay tourism in Darjeeling hills still remains in its infancy in relation to sustainability endeavours.
PubDate: 2024-02-28
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25732730
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Investigation of the impacts of industrial towns on urban rivers through
physicochemical analysis of water quality and the water quality index
(WQI)
Authors: Subodh Kasulkar, Mahendra Thakre
Pages: 532 - 540
Abstract: The present study was undertaken to assess the pollution status of Erai and Zarpat rivers flowing through industrial Chandrapur City, Maharashtra, India. The obtained data of physicochemical parameters were processed to calculate Water Quality Index (WQI). The obtained data revealed that the physicochemical parameters such as turbidity (20.2-28.7 NTU), hardness (236-276 mg/l), total dissolved solids (1586-1730 mg/l), nitrates (49-53 mg/l), phosphate (0.7-0.9 mg/l), chemical oxygen demand (53.2-69.2 mg/l) and biochemical oxygen demand (19-22 mg/l) were beyond the permissible limits of Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS).The concentrations of toxic metals viz. cadmium (0,006-0.008 mg/l), lead (0.03-0.05 mg/l), arsenic (0.0-0.03 mg/l) and molybdenum (0.05-0.07 mg/l) in river water were also recorded higher than permissible limits of BIS. The WQI values of both the rivers at different sampling stations ranged from 144 to 220 indicating poor to very poor water quality. The sources of pollution in both the rivers were disposal of fly ash, mining, disposal of treated and untreated domestic and industrial effluent due to lack of sewage treatment plants (STPs), effluent treatment plant (ETP), and common effluent treatment plant (CETP). Therefore, there is a need of construction of STP, ETP, CETP, proper disposal of fly ash, and desludging of rivers at regular intervals.
PubDate: 2024-01-15
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26762652
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Impact of seasonal variations on morphology and physiology of Apis
mellifera Linnaeus
Authors: Navdeep Kaur, Gurleen Kaur, Kapila Mahajan, Kavita Bajaj, Amandeep Singh, Randeep Singh
Pages: 541 - 550
Abstract: An experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of seasonal changes on the morphological (corbicula, proboscis, forewing, and hindwing) and physiological (hypopharyngeal glands and differential haemocyte count) characters of Apis mellifera L. workers during autumn, winter, spring, and summer seasons in year 2021 and 2022. The study found that the maximum values for morphological parameters i.e., proboscis length, corbicula length, length and width of forewing and hindwing, and physiological parameters i.e., hypopharyngeal gland acini size (length, width and surface area) and counts of plasmatocytes and granulocytes were consistently obtained during spring season. Notably, the most substantial reduction in immune cell count occurred during winter. Furthermore, a constant pattern observed across all seasons, indicating a significant increase in the size of all morphological characteristics as bees transitioned from nurses to foragers. In contrast, nurse bees always have larger hypopharyngeal gland acini sizes compared to foragers in all seasons. The differential haemocyte counts indicated a prevalence of plasmatocytes in the adult bee haemolymph. However, as bees shifted from nursing to foraging, the percentage of plasmatocytes and granulocytes decreased, accompanied by an increase in pycnotic cells, which signify programmed cell death. Consequently, the spring season emerged as the most favorable period for the growth and development of worker honey bees. This season consistently showcased optimal morphological and physiological characteristics, underscoring its importance in the life cycle of Apis mellifera colonies.
PubDate: 2024-04-28
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26972794
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Investigation of the status, causes, and remedial measures of air
pollution in an industrial town in Maharashtra, India
Authors: Subodh Kasulkar, Mahendra Thakre
Pages: 551 - 559
Abstract: Chandrapur City of Maharashtra state of India has undergone rapid industrialization, development, and infrastructure facilities along with prominent increase in population. Therefore, the present study was undertaken to study the air quality of the city. The mitigation measures of air pollution in the city were also discussed in the present study. Air quality monitoring was carried out at each monitoring station taken twice a week for 24 hours for particulate matter (PM10), particulate matter (PM2.5), sulphur dioxides (SO2), nitrogen dioxides NO2, and carbon monoxides (CO). The data revealed the high levels of particulate matter (PM10 and PM2.5) to approximately 1.56-2.15 times and 1.47-2.21 times higher than National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), respectively and were many times higher than WHO Global Air Quality Guidelines. The major sources of pollution were the emission from industries, mining activities and traffic. Observed concentrations of SO2 (24.88 to 45 μg/m3), NO2 (45.4 to 70.6 μg/m3) and (0.63 to 0.88 mg/m3) were below NAAQS. The obtained data was also processed for the calculation of air quality index (AQI). The AQI value at Chandrapur super thermal power station (CSTPS) was found higher (310) followed by MIDC with AQI of 302 (Very poor air quality) mainly due to higher particulate pollution, indicating respiratory illness to the people on prolonged exposure. AQI for remaining three stations namely, Jatpura gate, Bimba gate and Babupeth ranged from 264 to 284 (Poor air quality) mainly due to vehicular pollution indicating breathing discomfort to people on prolonged exposure. All the pollutants were observed higher than the concentrations recorded in earlier studies and showed increasing trend as compared to records of previous studies.
PubDate: 2024-01-16
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26812658
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Bioefficacy of different insecticides against pests and harvest time
residues in Brinjal fruits
Authors: Patel Hiral Gandabhai, Hiren Vallabhbhai Patel, Senjaliya Tushar Mukeshbhai, Chaudhary Lalabhai Sahdevbhai
Pages: 560 - 568
Abstract: An experiment was conducted to study the bioefficacy of six different insecticides (thiamethoxam 25 WG @ 0.01%, thiacloprid 21.7 SC @ 0.0032%, buprofezin 25EC @ 0.05%, spinosad 48 SC @ 0.017%, chlorantraniliprole 18.5 SC @ 0.007% and fenpropathrin 30 EC @ 0.01%) with a control (water spray) against sucking pests, viz., shoot and fruit borers, jassids, whiteflies and aphids, and harvest time residues in brinjal (Surti Ravaiya) at the College Farm, North Asian University, and Navsari during summer-2020. Among the different insecticides evaluated, chlorantraniliprole and spinosad were the most effective, fenpropathrin and buprofezin were the least effective insecticides against shoot and fruit borers, respectively. Thiamethoxam and thiacloprid were the most effective agents. Fenpropathrin and buprofezin were the least effective against whiteflies, jassids and aphids. After two hours of spray, the initial deposition order of the experimental insecticides was buprofezin (10.382 mg/kg) > fenpropathrin (5.602 mg/kg) > chlorantraniliprole (5.097 mg/kg) > thiamethoxam (4.886 mg/kg) > spinosad (3.984 mg/kg) > thiacloprid (3.332 mg/kg), while after 4 days of spray, the residue status of the brinjal fruit was in the order of fenpropathrin (0.539 mg/kg) > chlorantraniliprole (0.154 mg/kg) > thiacloprid (0.127 mg/kg) > thiamethoxam (0.099 mg/kg) > buprofezin (0.076 mg/kg) > spinosad (BDL). Overall, the highest percentage degradation of insecticide residues in brinjal fruits was registered with spinosad (100%), followed by buprofezin (99.26%), thiamethoxam (97.97%), chlorantraniliprole (96.97%), thiacloprid (96.18%) and fenpropathrin (90.37%) after 4 days of II spray.
PubDate: 2024-02-28
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25612724
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Optimum sowing time of quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd) in Telangana
State, India
Authors: K. Indudhar Reddy, A.V. Ramanjaneyulu, M.V. Nagesh Kumar, A. Geetha, G. Seshu, C.V. Sameer Kumar, M. Venkata Ramana
Pages: 569 - 574
Abstract: A field experiment was conducted in 2016-17 and 2017-18 during Rabi season at Regional Agricultural Research Station, Palem, Nagarkurnool District of Telangana State, India. The treatments consisted of 7 sowing dates with 15-day intervals (T1- October 10th, T2- October 25th, T3- November 10th, T4- November 25th, T5- December 10th, T6- December 25th and T7- January 10th). The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design and was replicated three times. This study was conducted with the objective of determining the optimum sowing time for quinoa in Telangana state, India. A greater seed yield was detected for the crops sown between October 10th (2174 kg/ha) and November 25th (1931 kg/ha); on further delay in sowing after November 25th, i.e., December 10th (1026 kg/ha), December 25th (600 kg/ha) and January 10th (590 kg/ha), the seed yields were drastically reduced due to the higher temperature at the reproductive stage of the crop. Hence, from this study, it can be noted that the optimum sowing date for quinoa in Telangana was from October 10th to November 25th.
PubDate: 2024-02-27
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25402713
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Effects of pinching and plant growth regulators on chrysanthemum
productivity in the central plain zone of Punjab
Authors: Jitendra Kumar Sahu, Deepika Sahu, Gloriya Smita Kispotta, Khiromni Nag
Pages: 575 - 580
Abstract: The current study was designed in a factorial randomized block with 16 treatment combinations, including four concentrations of GA3 (G0-control or water spray, G1 at 200 ppm, G2 at 300 ppm, and G3 at 400 ppm) and four levels of pinching (no pinching, pinching at 25 days after transplanting, pinching at 40 days after transplanting, and double pinching at 25 and 40 days after transplanting), and replicated three times. The results showed that the G2P2 treatment had greater effects on the number of primary branches (46.3), the number of leaves (135.8), the number of flowers (107.5), the Flower diameter (6.93 cm), the Weight of flowers per plant (287.1 g) and the Flower yield per ha. (15.7 t). Pinching and plant growth regulators can either induce or decrease plant height and spread, ultimately affecting yield.
PubDate: 2024-02-27
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.25362712
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Standardization of packaging technique(s) for the distant marketing of
Rhynchostylis retusa
Authors: Ningombam Sushma Devi , Preeti Hatibarua, Karobi Handique, Ningombam Bijaya Devi, Soumitra Goswami, Kaushik Das
Pages: 581 - 587
Abstract: A postharvest experiment was conducted at the Department of Horticulture, AAU, Jorhat, to study the effect of different packaging technique(s) for the distant marketing of Foxtail orchid spikes. The seven treatments were as follows: T1: CFB box (control); T2: wrapping with 200 gauge polyethylene sheet + KMnO₄ sachet + CFB box; T3: wrapping with butter paper + KMnO₄ sachet + CFB box; T4: wrapping with Brown Paper + KMnO₄ sachet + CFB box; T₅: plastic vial containing 8-HQS (25 ppm) + wrapping with 200 gauge polyethylene sheet + CFB box; T6: plastic vial containing 8-HQS (25 ppm) + wrapping with butter paper + CFB box; and T7: plastic vial containing 8-HQS (25 ppm) + wrapping with Brown Paper + CFB box. Among these packaging treatments, T5 resulted in a significantly longer vase life (7.33 days after 3 days of storage under ambient conditions). Postharvest parameters such as the PLW (6.58%), TSS (10.08%), MSI (78.28%), and wilting of the first floret (3.41 days) were found to be greatest in T5. However, in terms of biochemical parameters, T5 was similar to T6 in terms of carbohydrate content (63.49 and 62.08 mg/100 ml, respectively), protein content (15.23 and 15.18%, respectively) and anthocyanin content (6.37 and 6.30 mg/L, respectively).
PubDate: 2024-02-24
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.24892678
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Effect of weed and nitrogen management practices on controlling weeds and
enhancing the productivity of linseed (Linum usitatissimum L.) under utera
conditions
Authors: Narinderpal Singh, Pankaj Chopra, Suresh Kumar, Gurpreet Singh, Navneet Kaur
Pages: 588 - 596
Abstract: A field experiment was executed during the Rabi season at CSKHPKV, Palampur, to evaluate the effects of different weed control and nitrogen management practices on weed control, yield, nutrient content, dehydrogenase activity and the oil content of linseed. The experiment was set up in the RBD with 3 replicates consisting of fifteen treatment combinations comprising five weed controls (viz. isoproturon 1.25 kg/ha, clodinafop propargyl + metsulfuron methyl 60+4 g/ha, clodinafop propargyl + carfentrazone ethyl 60+10 g/ha, hand weeding twice and weedy check) and three nitrogen levels (i.e., FYM 5 t/ha, 75 and 100% RDN). The soil texture at the experimental site was silty clay loam, acidic and medium in available nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium. The results showed that the use of clodinafop propargyl + metsulfuron methyl 60+4 g/ha significantly decreased the count and dry matter content of the total weeds at the maximum count and dry matter stage. However, 1.25 kg/ha isoproturon was likewise effective at significantly reducing the total weed count and was the next best at reducing the dry matter content of the total weeds. The effective control of weeds by the application of isoproturon at 1.25 kg/ha (Post.) significantly increased plant growth without any toxicity, which contributed to increased nutrient uptake and increased seed, straw and oil yields in the linseed treatment. Among the nitrogen levels, a considerably lower count and dry matter content of the total weeds were recorded in the 100% RDN plots, followed by the 75% RDN treatment. The application of 100% RDN resulted in significantly greater NPK uptake than did the other treatments, which contributed to considerably greater seed, straw and oil yields. Thus, the application of isoproturon at 1.25 kg/ha (Post.) with 100% RDN was proven to be the most effective at realizing higher seed and oil yields with better weed control in linseed plants grown under utera conditions.
PubDate: 2024-02-25
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.24602691
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Effect of harvesting the paddy crop on the physicochemical properties and
micronutrients of soil
Authors: Rupchand R. Tikale, Swapnil V. Madhamshetiwar
Pages: 597 - 603
Abstract: Soil quality plays an important role in the enhancement of agricultural Production. Therefore, the present study was carried out to study the quality of paddy soil. To fulfil the objectives of the present study, 15 sites were selected in Pomburna tehsil of Chandrapur District (M.S.), India. The systematic grid sampling plan was followed in the study and sample were selected grid wise on the basis of utilization of rice cultivated by the population cluster. Soil quality parameters such as, water holding capacity (WHC), pH, Electrical conductivity (EC), Nitrogen, Zinc, Copper, Iron, and organic carbon (OC) were analyzed during the study period. The results of the present study revealed that the value of physicochemical parameters of the soil was in the suitable range. Salinity in most of the samples (78%) was observed in high range. OC values (more than 0.80%) indicate higher fertility of the soil. The nature of the soil was found from acidic to alkaline in nature. The values of Nitrogen, Zinc, Copper, and Iron also indicate the suitability of soil for paddy crops. After the harvesting of paddy crop, the values of most of the physicochemical parameters and micronutrients decreased except copper.
PubDate: 2024-01-15
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.26732649
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Water quality assessment of Lakhota Lake, Jamnagar, Gujarat, India, with
special reference to the water quality index (WQI)
Authors: Mukesh Ruhela, Sweta Bhardwaj, Singh Pradipkumar Gaurishankar, Faheem Ahamad, Rakesh Bhutiani
Pages: 604 - 610
Abstract: The present study was carried out to assess the water quality of Lakhota Lake. Objective water samples from five different sites were collected and analyzed from January 2023 to December 2024. Furthermore, the data obtained were processed to calculate the water quality index (WQI). The values obtained were compared with the guidelines for drinking purposes suggested by the World Health Organization and Bureau of Indian Standard. The results revealed that all the studied parameters were within the permissible limits except turbidity, TDS and EC, which exceeded the permissible limits. Among all the sites, site 5 was more heavily polluted than all the other sites. Among the heavy metals, iron was found above the permissible limits at Site 3, Site 4 and Site 5. Eight water quality parameters were used in the WQI approach to estimate the integrated groundwater quality. The WQI values ranged from 63.8 to 81.9, indicating that the Lakhota Lake water is not suitable for drinking water, including water from both humans and animals. At sites 1-4, the WQI falls in the poor category, while at site 5, it falls under the very poor category. There is a need for proper wastewater management in and around Lakhota Lake to protect the water quality and aesthetic properties of the lake. It is finally suggested that vegetation should also be planted at the boundaries of the lake, which will work as a natural purifier for the water of the lake.
PubDate: 2024-05-05
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.27782024
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Bacterial wilt in brinjal: Source of resistance, inheritance of resistance
and molecular markers linked to resistance loci
Authors: Pandiyaraj Pitchai, Tejavathu Hatiya Singh , D. C. Lakshmana Reddy
Pages: 611 - 618
Abstract: Brinjal, eggplant or aubergine (Solanum melongena L.) belongs to the Solanaceae family and is a widely cultivated warm-season vegetable in India and around the world. Brinjal production and productivity are strongly affected by many biotic stresses, viz., fusarium wilt, verticillium wilt and small leaves of brinjal. Among all the diseases, bacterial wilt (BW) is the most destructive disease in tropical, subtropical, temperate, and humid regions worldwide due to the broad host range and prolonged duration of spore survival. BW disease in brinjal is caused by Ralstonia solanacearum, which belongs to the β-proteobacteria family and is a gram-negative, nonspore-forming, rod-shaped, and soilborne bacterium. BW disease management strategies, such as culture, mechanical, biological, and chemical methods, are ineffective due to the prolonged survival period of the bacterium in the soil and its wide host range. The use of resistant varieties and hybrids against BW disease is the safest method for controlling this disease. Information on the genetics of resistance to BW disease in brinjal is vital for the development of an effective breeding method and for identifying bacterial wilt resistance in preferable brinjal cultivars. The use of molecular markers associated with BW disease resistance gene loci helps to characterize traits of interest and develop resistant varieties and hybrids. This review described recent advances in different control measures. We focused on the importance of marker-assisted selection for identifying bacterial wilt diseases.
PubDate: 2024-02-25
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.24512690
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Effect of climate change on agriculture and its management
Authors: Sampath Lavudya, Butti Prabhakar
Pages: 619 - 627
Abstract: Globally, agriculture is being greatly impacted by climate change, with agricultural output in regions such as India being reduced by rising heat stress, drought, and floods. Typhoons and floods are two examples of extreme weather events that harm agricultural infrastructure and force farmers to relocate. The changing growing season, precipitation pattern, and insect pressure are already negatively affecting agricultural productivity and are expected to worsen. The quantity and quality of food supplies are under threat due to the rising worldwide demand for wholesome and sustainable food production as well as the difficulties associated with climate change. Climate change is a topic that is addressed through international accords and programmes, including the UNFCCC, the Paris Agreement, and the Renewable Energy Transition. To lessen the consequences of climate change, programmes are being developed that emphasize renewable energy, reforestation, and climatic resilience. The nutritional and physical quality of food are also impacted by climate change; these changes include changes in carbohydrate, protein, lipid, mineral, and physical characteristics. Government initiatives, climate-smart food systems, financial incentives for dietary changes, and cross-disciplinary research are examples of mitigation measures. Crops that can withstand heat, water, and climatic anomalies are developed through plant breeding. While there may be some benefits associated with climate change, such as the expansion of particular crops, the impact on food production as a whole is questionable and calls for further study as well as increased public awareness among society.
PubDate: 2024-02-21
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.24502659
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
- Advancement of bryophytes from traditional uses to pharmaceutical
applications: A review
Authors: Pooja Swarnkar, Shivani Gore, Kajal S. Rathore, Shivom Singh
Pages: 628 - 639
Abstract: Bryophytes, which include liverworts, mosses, and hornworts, have a long history of traditional medicinal use and are now gaining attention for their biotechnological applications. The evolution of bryophytes and their transition from traditional medicine to biotechnological applications can be explored through various studies. With more than 25,000 species, they constitute a significant part of the terrestrial flora. Bryophytes produce a variety of secondary metabolites, including terpenoids, phenols, glycosides, fatty acids, and amino acids. Bryophytes exhibit cytotoxic and antimicrobial activities, making them promising resources for pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industry applications. The traditional uses of bryophytes in medicine are reported in various cultures, including traditional Chinese, Indian, and Native American medicine. Recent advancements in technology and research methodologies have revealed the intricate chemical composition and pharmacological potential of bryophytes, leading to the identification of bioactive compounds with promising therapeutic properties. However details about the potential of bryophytes are currently scattered and not thoroughly documented. The present review focuses on gathering and organizing information about bryophytes and highlighting the challenges, opportunities, and future prospects in harnessing their therapeutic potential for the benefit of global healthcare.
PubDate: 2024-05-02
DOI: 10.36953/ECJ.27712024
Issue No: Vol. 25, No. 2 (2024)
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