ID: 64745
Title: Economic Contribution of Wild Edible Minor Fruits to the Forest Fringe Tribals - A Sustainable Alternative Livelihood Approach
Author: Sumit Manna, Anirban Roy
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 335-345 (2023)
Subject: Economic Contribution of Wild Edible Minor Fruits to the Forest Fringe Tribals - A Sustainable Alternative Livelihood Approach
Keywords: Economic Valuation, Livelihood Option, Minor Fruits, Tribal Community.
Abstract: Valuation of tropical dry deciduous forests of eastern lateritic part of India is mostly based on economic appraisal of its wood stock. Occasional assessment often overlooks the economic potential of non-timber benefits like wild edible minor fruits (WEMFs) which have a wide subsistence use even for cash income. Present study deals with the ethnobotanical information, spatio-temporal distribution along with estimation of economic contribution considering annual productivity and utilizations of WEMFs in the two sampled forests of eastern lateritic part of India from where a major tribal community (Santal) gets benefit. Annual production and utilization was performed considering different factors associated to the quantum of extraction. A new comprehensive economic model was developed to estimate the net annual economic contribution per Santal family by WEMFs. A higher production peak of WEMFs in alternative year was noted along with Clump distribution and specific habitat preference. Net value of revenues - from these WEMFs was estimated to be Rs. 772.86 ± 76 family-1 year-1 which presently contributing 3.74% of their total annual income. Forests of eastern lateritic part of India have a strong potentiality to produce WEMFs that may be helpful in generation of alternative livelihood option to the local tribals through entrepreneurship development.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chopra K. (1993). The Value of Non-timber Foret Products: An Estimation for Tropical Deciduous Forest in India, Economic Botany, 47 (3): 251-257.
Chothe A, Patil S. and Kulkarni D.K. (2014). Unconventional wild fruits and processing in tribal area of Jawhar, Thane District, Bioscience Discovery, 5(1) :19-23
Literature cited 2: Drop M.V. Niemeije R. and Offermans D. (1998). The Wealth of Forests. A methodology for Socio-Economic Valuation of Non-timber Forests Products on a National Scale. Amsterdam; The Netherlands, AID Environment 75.
Ghosal S. (2011). Importance of non-timber forest products in native household economy, Journal of Geography and Regional Planning,4(3): 159-168.
ID: 64744
Title: Leaf and Shoot Growth Characteristics of Abies pindrow and A. spectabilis of West Himalaya
Author: Pradeep Singh, Sahil Joshi, G. C. S. Negi
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 328-334 (2023)
Subject: Leaf and Shoot Growth Characteristics of Abies pindrow and A. spectabilis of West Himalaya
Keywords: Abies spp., High Altitude, Leaf and Shoot Characteristics, West Himalaya, Climate Change.
Abstract: In this article leaf and shoot growth characteristics of two fir species (A. pindrow and A. spectabilis) found in the high-altitude zone of Tungnath (Uttarakhand) are described with an objective to identify them easily due to their almost similar morphology. The mean height of A. pindrow trees was markedly greater than A. spectabilis (40.3±1.80 vs. 27.7±1.15 m), and the tree height declined but tree CBH increased with the increasing altitude. Both shoot diameter and number of leaves per shoot were higher in A. spectabilis for both leader (mean= 4.2 vs. 6.0 mm) and lateral shoots (mean=3.1 vs.3.88 mm). The number of leaves per shoot in A. spectabilis (mean= 146) was two and half times more that in A. pindrow (mean= 65). The leaves of A. spectabilis were comparatively smaller (length= 2.50 cm), narrower (width= 0.19 cm) and thinner (thickness= 0.25 mm) than the leaves of A. pindrow (length= 4.6 cm), narrower (width= 0.23 cm) and thinner (thickness= 0.38 mm). Leaves (needles) of A. pindrow are acute and bifid at apex, and A. specatbilis leaves are rather smooth at apex and have two greyish bands on either side of shallow mid-rib. Leaf mass (0.006 vs. 0.01 g/leaf) and leaf area 2 (0.48 vs. 1.0 cm2 /leaf) was also higher for A. pindrow. The increasing leaf thickness with altitude has important implications for understanding the ability of these two important fir species to harvest sunlight and grow in the cold environment at high altitude to devise an appropriate forest management practice in the era of climate change.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Basnet P. and Gaire N.P. (2017). Growth and dynamics of Abies spectabilis (D. Don). with climate change at tree line ecotone in the Western Nepal Himalaya. In: Proceedings of an International Conference on "Wild Harvests, Governance and Livelihoods in Asia"71-84 p.
Evans G.C. (1972). The Quantitative Analysis of Plant Growth (Vol.I).Univ.California Press.
Literature cited 2: Farjon A. (2018). The Kew review: Conifers of the world. Kew bulletin, 73 (1): 1-16.
Gaire N.P. Fan Z.X. Brahunng A., Panthi S., Rana P., Shrestha A. and Bhuju D.R. (2020). Abies spectabilis shows stable growth relations to temperature but changing response to moisture conditions along an elevation gradient in the central Himalaya. Dendrochronologia, 60:125675.
ID: 64743
Title: Variability for Girth, Oil and α- and β- Santalol Content in Santalum album L. (Sandalwood) Grown in Uttarakhand State of India
Author: S. S. Bisht
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 323-327 (2023)
Subject: Variability for Girth, Oil and α- and β- Santalol Content in Santalum album L. (Sandalwood) Grown in Uttarakhand State of India
Keywords: Girth Size, α- and β- Santalol, Indian Sandalwood, Oil, Variability.
Abstract: Santalum album L. is commonly known as Sandalwood or Indian Sandalwood and categorized as 'vulnerable' by the International Union for Conservation of Nature. Variation for oil and its major constituents i.e., α- and β- santalol of the Sandalwood trees with wide range of tree girth from two different locations in the Uttarakhand state has been attempted. Sandalwood core samples were collected from twenty trees of different girth size ranging from 34 to 152 cm. Extraction and estimation of sandalwood oil from the core samples was carried out by using solvent extraction and gravimetric analysis methods respectively. Whereas α- and β-santalol content was estimated from the extracted oil by using Gas chromatography/Mass spectrometry technique. Estimated oil content ranged from 0.45% to 3.07% while α- and β- santalol content varied from 40.5% to 55% and 16% to 26% (w/w) respectively. Although considerable variation in oil and santalols content exists, but no significant relationship between tree girth, oil, and santalols content was observed. Therefore, sufficient care has to be taken while selecting superior genotypes of Sandalwood tree from study areas.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Arun Kumar A.N., Joshi G. Rao M.S. Rathore T.S. and Ramakantha V. (2016). The Population Decline of Indian Sandalwood and People's Role in Conservation-An Analysis. Climate Change Challenge(3C) and soical-Economic -Ecological Interference-Building, Environmental Science, (Eds: S, Nautiyal et al)., Springer International Publishing, Switzerland.
Literature cited 2: Bisht S.S. and Arun Kumar A.N. (2022) .Variability for Oil, α-and ẞ-and ẞ-santalol Content in Indian Sandalwood (Santalum album L) from Marayoor Sandalwood Reserve-The only Natural Population in India. Indian Forester, 148 (4): 429-433.
Bisht S.S.,Chandra G. and Pandey K.K. (2021). Simple and rapid FTIR spectral data and chemometric analysis -based method for evaluation of the quality of Indian Sandalwood oil. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 33 (4): 376-384.
ID: 64742
Title: Thermal Modification of Bamboo : A Chemical-Free Processing Technique for Improving the Properties and Performance of Products
Author: S. R. Shukla
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 316-322 (2023)
Subject: Thermal Modification of Bamboo : A Chemical-Free Processing Technique for Improving the Properties and Performance of Products
Keywords: TM Bamboo, Bamboo Timber, Dimensional Stability, Decay Resistance, LBL, BSL.
Abstract: Thermal modification is one of the ecofriendly alternative processing techniques for improving various properties of bamboo including dimensional stability and decay resistance. The heat treatment protocols for producing thermally modified (TM) bamboo have been worked out in the laboratory for different species. The TM bamboo exhibited improved properties particularly lower shrinkage and swelling, higher water resistance, darker brownish colour and enhanced decay resistance against fungi and borers. When bamboo is subjected to heat treatment temperatures above 200°C for longer durations (>8 hours), the flexural strength is found to be adversely affected. By thermal processing, not only decay factors of bamboo are eliminated but dimensional stability and resistance to moisture related problems are also improved. TM bamboo with improved aesthetic and quality parameters may be used for production of certain value-added “green products”. A few composite boards were produced successfully in the laboratory using TM bamboo. The bamboo culms of required dimensions were thermally modified and converted into thin strips or crushed bamboo, which can be processed further into sturdy composite panel products such as laminated bamboo lumber (LBL) or bamboo strand lumber (BSL) or so called “bamboo timber”. Thus, thermal modification of bamboo may be considered as an ecological alternative to preservative chemical treatments. The thermally modified bamboos may be used for different valued-added products such as furniture, flooring tiles, bamboo boards and strip-based panel products in structural and non-structural industry sectors. Through successful implementation of up-scaled processing, this technique may lead to prospective business opportunities and bamboo-based industry of the country may utilize TM bamboos for production of various life-style products.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon. (1986) .IS: 1708.Method of testing of small clear specimens of timber. Bureau of Indian standards, New Delhi, 64 pp.
Anon. (2008) .IS: 6874.Method of tests for bamboo. Bureau of Indian standards, New Delhi, 9p.
Literature cited 2: Anon. (2016). International Thermowood association. Production statistics 2016.International Thermowood Association, Helsinki, Finland.7pp.
Chung K.F. and Chan S.L. (2002). Design of bamboo scaffolds. Technical Report No.23, International Network for Bamboo and Rattan (INBAR), Beijing, 105pp.
ID: 64741
Title: The Seed Morphology and Germination Behavior of Sesbania grandiflora L. Under Nursery Conditions
Author: Kumari Beauty , Anita Tomar, Bijay Kumar Singh, Faraz Ahmed Khan
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 311-315 (2023)
Subject: The Seed Morphology and Germination Behavior of Sesbania grandiflora L. Under Nursery Conditions
Keywords: Germination Behaviour, Nursery, Mean Germination Time, Germination Energy.
Abstract: The present research attempts to characterize the morphological and germination behavior of a promising fodder species Sesbania grandiflora L. (Agast) under nursery conditions. Experiment was carried out at the nursery of the Forest Research Center for Eco-Rehabilitation (FRCER), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, during April 2021 and different germination parameters viz, germination per cent, survival per cent, germination capacity, germination energy, vigour index, mean daily germination and mean germination time along with seed morphological parameters were studied. Early germination from the medium-sized seeds of S. grandiflora proved to be significant under nursery conditions. A good germination per cent (83.42%) and low mean germination time (14.19 days) indicates an early and rapid germination of S. grandiflora under nursery conditions. Such an investigation may help nursery managers to produce seedlings of species for fodder availability during lean period.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Abdul-Baki A.A. and Anderson J.D. (1973) .Vigiour determination in soyabean by multiple criteria. Crop Sci., 13: 630-633.
Ahirwar J.R. (2012). Effect of seed size and weighton seed germination of Alangium lamarckii, Akola, India. Research Journal of Recent Sciences,1 (ISC-2011): 320-322.
Literature cited 2: Bewley J.D. and Black M. (1978). The Physiology and Biochemistry of Seeds, Berlin, Springer-Verlag, 1: 306.
Canada S.C., Mridul A.M., Sagar A. and Sarwar A.K.M.G. (2017). Germination and seedling growth of Sesbania species as influenced by seed size. Progressive Agriculture, 28 (4): 316-322.
ID: 64740
Title: Estimation of Biomass Storage and Net Primary Productivity of Five Dominant Forests of Kumaun Himalaya along the Altitudinal Gradient
Author: Tanuja Gahlot, Arun Kumar Kushwaha, Pratibha Gwal, Prachi Joshi, Y. S. Rawat, P. S. Rawat
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 298-310 (2023)
Subject: Estimation of Biomass Storage and Net Primary Productivity of Five Dominant Forests of Kumaun Himalaya along the Altitudinal Gradient
Keywords: Altitude, Biomass, Net Primary Productivity, Kumaun Himalaya.
Abstract: The present study was performed in the forest of Kumaun Himalaya present along the altitude as to determine the biomass storage and NPP of the forests. For this purpose, a total of 150 plots were placed at 15 different sites by following plot sampling method. Allometric regression equations were used for the calculation of tree biomass and NPP, which were previously developed for the similar forests and similar tree species of Himalaya by different workers. The biomass value of all the five forests ranged from 156-918.36 t ha-1 and NPP varied between 10.70 and 20.30 t ha-1 yr-1. Low biomass value was reported at middle altitude (chir-pine and banj-oak forest) and lowest altitude (teak forest) as compared to the high-altitude forests. However, all the forests showed high net primary productivity. The regression analysis showed a positive correlation of biomass with NPP (r2 =0.595). No relationship was seen between altitude and biomass and altitude and net primary productivity. In fact the entire elevation range supports good productivity and biomass. It was also noticed that expansion of chir-pine forests towards the banj-oak forest was responsible for the low biomass of banj-oak forests. Banj-oak forests at this elevation are considered to be the soil binder forests which bind the soil and stop landslides. However, the chir-pine expansion in banj-oak forest area is facing tremendous loss in its forest vegetation.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adhikari B.S., Rawat Y.S. and Singh S.P. (1995). Structure and function of high-altitude forests of Central Himalaya, I: dry matter of dynamics. Annals of Botany, 75: 237-248.
Ainsworth E.A. and Rogers A. (2007) .The response of photosynthesis and stomatal conductance to rising CO2: mechanisms and environmental interactions. Plant, Cell and Environment, 30: 258-270.
Literature cited 2: Alves L.F., Vieira S.A., Scaranello M.A., Camargo P.B. Santos F.A., Joly C.A., Martinelli L.A. (2010). Forest structure and live aboveground biomass variation along an elevational gradient of tropical Atlantic moist forest (Brazil). Forest Ecology and Management, 260 (5): 679-691.
Barthelemy Y., Patrices S., Salifou T., Jeanne M.R. and Victor H. (2015) .Floristic diversity of Piliostigma associations in relation to latitudinal gradient, Soil and climate variables in Burkina Faso, West Africa. Tropical Ecology, 56 (1): 57-76.
ID: 64739
Title: Mapping of the NTFP Species of Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Telangana Using Geospatial Technology
Author: Katikala Anish, N. S. Srinidhi
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 291-297 (2023)
Subject: Mapping of the NTFP Species of Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Telangana Using Geospatial Technology
Keywords: NTFP, Mapping, Telangana State, Forest College and Research Institute, FCRI.
Abstract: Non-Timber Forest Products (NTFP's) are the economic and social specialties of forests which are used by Tribal and Non-Tribal people for their shelter, food and medicine in different parts of the world. The use of remote sensing data, GIS and GPS provides a variety of forest resource management applications which enables decision makers and researchers to develop management plans. The present study is to identify the NTFP in Forest College and Research Institute (FCRI), Mulugu, Siddipet, Telangana and to map them using the Geo-spatial technology. The obtained data is categorized on the basis of their origin, scientific names, growing season and their end use.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Baidoo A. (2018). Non-timber forest products (NTFPs): Snapshot of emerging definitions.
Food and agriculture Organization (1999) .An overview of Non-Timber Forest Products in the Mediterranean Region. Rome: FAO, pp.1-9.
Literature cited 2: FSI (2007). State of Forest Report, 2015.Forest Survey of India, Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change. Dehradun India word Health Organization (2000). Food Security and Nutrition Survey. USA.
World Health Organization (2000). Food Security and Nutrition Survey. USA.
ID: 64738
Title: Economics of Recreational Ecosystem Services : Application of Individual Travel Cost Method from Nandi Hills Forest in Karnataka
Author: M. Balasubramanian
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 286-290 (2023)
Subject: Economics of Recreational Ecosystem Services : Application of Individual Travel Cost Method from Nandi Hills Forest in Karnataka
Keywords: Ecosystem Services, Economic Value, Travel Cost Method, Karnataka
Abstract: In the present paper the economic value of recreational services provided by Nandi Hills, Karnataka has been estimated at ₹ 2.47 billion for 2019. This study interviewed 150 tourist visitors, using a questionnaire method at the recreation site. The result of the study has found that more than 55 per cent of the respondents are willing to pay more than the existing entry fee at the recreation area. The main implications of the study are: first, development and investment opportunity for nature - based recreation areas; second, enhancing awareness of the ecosystem services; and three sustainable uses of ecosystem services at the local level.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Balasubramanian M. (2017) .Economics of Urban Ecosystem services: A case study of Bangalore, Monograph, Institute for Social and Economic Change, Bangalore.
Chung M.G. and Kang H. (2013) .A review of ecosystem service studies: concept, approach and future work in Korea. Journal of Ecology and Environment, 36 (1): 1-9.
Literature cited 2: Daniel T.C. Muhar A, Arnberger A, Aznar O., Boyd J.W., Chan K.M., Costanza R., Elmqvist T., Flint C.G., Gobster P.H. and Gret-Regamey A. (2012). Contributions of cultural services to the ecosystem services agenda. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 109(23): 8812-8819.
David D. and Tisdell C.A. (1999) .Tourist levies and willingness to pay for a whale shark experience. Tourism Economics,5(2): 161-174.
ID: 64737
Title: Assessing the Efficacy and Efficiency of Subsidiary Silvicultural Operations in Sal Forest of Jharkhand; Measuring the Impact in terms of Ecosystem Services
Author: H. S. Gupta , S. Prasad , S. Prasad
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: : Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (2) Pg No. 279-285 (2023)
Subject: Assessing the Efficacy and Efficiency of Subsidiary Silvicultural Operations in Sal Forest of Jharkhand; Measuring the Impact in terms of Ecosystem Services
Keywords: Wood volume, Biomass, Carbon content, Regeneration, Biological diversity, Soil conservation,
Abstract: This study is aimed at evaluation of ecological and economical value of Subsidiary Silvicultural Operations (SSOs) in Sal Forest of Jharkhand, by measuring its effects in terms of Ecosystem Services (ES). Data like plant height and girth etc. were collected, from 18 samples and 18 control plots, spread over 3 Agroclimatic Zone, for three models of SSOs. Using the collected data, parameters like wood volume, Biomass, Shannon Wiener Index (H’), Regeneration status and Soil conserved / ha. were generated. Comparative analysis between sample and control plot shows, SSOs where practiced has led to alter significantly, the productivity and biodiversity of forest. In sample plot wood volume growth assessed was 107 m3 /ha.; Biomass growth 54 m3 /ha, Carbon content 27m3 /ha. Regeneration percentage as calculated 44.45%. Shannon Wiener Index (H’) was found 1.39 and the average of the same for control plots was found to be; wood volume 61.53 m3 /ha.; Biomass 20.11 m3 /ha., carbon content 10.05 m3 /ha.; Regeneration percentage 28.51% and Shannon Wiener Index (H’) 1.09/ha. Thus, in general, SSOs have a positive effect on all the parameters of ecosystem services. Soil conservation effect is found highest in “Northern dry mixed forest” i.e., 21.1 m3 /ha. Subsequently 16.57 m3 /ha in mixed moist and dry deciduous forest and lowest 13.55 m3 /ha. in dry peninsular Sal Forest. All the factors like wood volume, biomass, and carbon content, Shannon Wiener Index, regeneration status, soil conservation are important measures for sustainability of any given ecosystem. Therefore, SSOs need to be 1promoted to ensure, conserve and increase forest productivity ultimately, achieving sustainable Forest Management, like soil conservation, natural regeneration and biological diversity etc. Study also evaluated the various ES of Forest in terms of monetary value and has found that per hectare enhancement of Rs. 225838 happened in ES NDMF, RS. 324746 in MMDDF and RS. 385120 in DPSF measured by difference between sample and control plot. This gives very significant hope when the same is analysed at ̒ ̒ Forest type level. for this efficacious intervention i.e., SSOs the result showed that in Model no.3 of SSO is the best and dry peninsular Sal Forest of Jharkhand as compared with Model no.1, 2 and forest sub type similarly for NDMF, MMDDF.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon (2021). India State of Forest Report, Forest Cover 2017, Forest Survey of India (accessed on 13 Feb 2022).
Anon (2017) Annexure II, Carbon stock in India's forest, Published by Forest Survey of India. Dehradun, India
Literature cited 2: Askins R.A. (2001). Sustaining biological diversity in early successional communities: the challenge of managing unpopular habitats. Wildlife Society Bulletin, 20: 407-412.
Blaser J., Sarre A. Poore D. and S.L.Johnson (2011) .Status of tropical management 2011.IITO Technical Series, Yokohama, Japan.No.382011.460.
ID: 64736
Title: Spatio-temporal changes in the grass Land cover of Manas National Park
Author: K.SP.V.Pavan Kumar,T.Vijaya Lakshmi and Abhijit Goswami
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (3) Pg No. 273-278 (2023)
Subject: Spatio-temporal changes in the grass Land cover of Manas National Park
Keywords: Manas National Park,Land Use Land Cover,Saterllite imagery,Geographical Information System(GIS), Vegetation analysis
Abstract: Manas National Park, a UNESCO natural world heritage site, located in the foothills of the Eastern Himalayan range has a rich diversity of flora and fauna. Manas National Park (MNP) is facing natural as well as anthropogenic challenges. The present study is carried out by using geospatial technology as an attempt to Analyse the land use and land cover change over a period from 1973 till 2022.The geospatial technology is being used as a timely and cost-effective way to carry the study as the site remained inaccessible during the long period of insurgency and no adequate database is readily available. Results indicated that there has been significant decrease in the grassland areas, rise in encroachment and changes in the river coarse inside the park.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Field Directorate, Manas Tiger Project, Government of Assam (2019). Tiger conservation Paan, Manas Tiger Reserve (2014 to 2024) .7.1. pp.132-143.
Forkuo E.K. and Frimpong A. (20132). Analysis of Forest Cover Change detection. International Journal of Remote Sensing Applications, 2(4) :82-92.
Literature cited 2: Roy M. (2021) .A study on the Status of Biodiversity Conservation and Sustainable Ecotourism in Manas National Park, Assam, pp.2104-2105.
Sarmah K.K. and Borthakur S.K. (2009). A checklist of angiospermic plants of Manas National Park in Assam, India, pp.190-192.
ID: 64735
Title: Neutral and adaptive genetic variation in Indian snow leopards, Panthera uncia
Author: Tirupathi Rao Golla, Laura Tensen, Vipin , Kesav Kumar , Satish Kumar and Ajay Gaur
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 125 (2) 204-211 (2023)
Subject: Neutral and adaptive genetic variation in Indian snow leopards, Panthera uncia
Keywords: Adaptive evolution, balancing selection, captive breeding, genetic diversity, major histocompatibility complex.
Abstract: In this study, we reveal patterns of genetic variation in
snow leopards (Panthera uncia) by combining neutral
(mtDNA, microsatellites) and adaptive (MHC II-DRB)
genes. We collected 56 faecal samples from three locations in India. We observed moderate levels of microsatellite diversity (N = 30; A = 5.6; HO = 0.559). Nine unique
MHC II-DRB sequences were identified in four snow
leopard samples, of which 8 were novel. We found low
levels of polymorphism in MHC class II-DRB exon,
which was higher in captive (VA = 9.4%) compared to
wild individuals (VA = 7.8%), likely as a result of a
population bottleneck.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Frankham, R., Ballou, S. E. J. D., Briscoe, D. A. and Ballou,
J. D., Introduction to Conservation Genetics, Cambridge University
Press, Cambridge, 2002.
Willoughby, J. R., Fernandez, N. B., Lamb, M. C., Ivy, J. A., Lacy,
R. C. and DeWoody, J. A., The impacts of inbreeding, drift and selection on genetic diversity in captive breeding populations. Mol.
Ecol., 2015, 24, 98–110.
Literature cited 2: Hedrick, P. W., Conservation genetics: where are we now? Trends
Ecol. Evol., 2001, 16, 629–636.
Woodworth, L. M., Montgomery, M. E., Briscoe, D. A. and
Frankham, R., Rapid genetic deterioration in captive populations:
causes and conservation implications. Conserv. Genet., 2002, 3, 277–
288.
ID: 64734
Title: 26Al–26Mg isotopic studies in some calcium–aluminium-rich inclusions and chondrules from unequilibrated chondrites
Author: Ritesh Kumar Mishra, Kuljeet Kaur Marhas and Mario Trieloff
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 125 (2) 191-203 (2023)
Subject: 26Al–26Mg isotopic studies in some calcium–aluminium-rich inclusions and chondrules from unequilibrated chondrites
Keywords: Calcium–aluminium-rich inclusions, chondrules, early solar system relative chronology, short-lived now-extinct radionuclide, solar system
Abstract: Calcium–aluminium-rich inclusions (CAIs) and chondrules are the oldest dated components of chondrites.
They record the events and processes during the formation and early evolution of the solar system in their
morphology, mineral phases and isotopic compositions. 26Al–26Mg isotopic systematics of two CAIs from Leoville (CV3.1-3.4), two chondrules from Queen Alexandra
range 99177 (CR3.00), one mega chondrule from Semarkona (LL3.00), and a plagioclase rich chondrule from
Chainpur (LL3.4) were carried out to understand the
formation processes of these rare kinds of objects and
to obtain constraints on early solar system events and
processes. Petrographic and isotopic properties of Leoville CAI 1 (Type B2) suggest its formation c. 0.1 Ma
after typical non-igneous CAIs characterized by the
canonical ratio of 26Al/27Al = 5.25 × 10–5
, from a partial
melt heated to a maximum temperature of ~1420°C and
cooled slowly at ≤0.5°C/h. Leoville CAI 3 (Type A) plausibly formed early within 1 Ma of the canonical CAI
value and subsequently experienced parent body aqueous
alteration. The analysed chondrules did not yield significant 26Mg excess due to their small Al/Mg ratio or resetting by secondary processes.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Davis, A. M. and McKeegan, K. D., Short-lived radionuclides and
early solar system chronology. In Meteorites, Comets, and Planets,
Treatise on Geochemistry. Vol. 1: Meteorites and Cosmochemical
Processes (ed. Davis, A. M.), Elsevier, Oxford, 2014, 2nd edn, pp.
139–179.
Chaussidon, M. and Liu, M.-C., Timing of nebula processes that
shaped the precursors of the terrestrial planets. In The Early Earth:
Accretion and Differentiation (eds Badro, J. and Walters, M. J.),
AGU Monograph, John Wiley, New Jersey, 2015, pp. 1–26.
Literature cited 2: Larsen, K. K. et al., Episodic formation of refractory inclusions in
the solar system and their presolar heritage. Earth Planet. Sci. Lett.,
2020, 535, 22–24.
Krot, A. N., Keil, K., Scott, E. R. D., Goodrich, C. A. and Weisberg,
M. K., Classification of meteorites and their genetic relationships.
In Meteorites, Comets, and Planets, Treatise on Geochemistry. Vol.
1: Meteorites and Cosmochemical Processes (ed. Davis, A. M.),
Elsevier, Oxford, 2014, 2nd edn, pp. 65–137.
ID: 64733
Title: Volatile cues from Corcyra cephalonica larva elicit behavioural responses in parasitoid, Habrobracon hebetor
Author: G. Basana Gowda, Totan Adak , P. D. Kamala Jayanthi , P. Saravan Kumar , G. Guru-Pirasanna-Pandi , Naveenkumar B. Patil , M. Annamalai and P. C. Rath
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 125 (2) 183-191 (2023)
Subject: Volatile cues from Corcyra cephalonica larva elicit behavioural responses in parasitoid, Habrobracon hebetor
Keywords: Behavioural assays, GC-EAG, GC-MS, larval volatiles, olfactometer.
Abstract: The rice moth, Corcyra cephalonica (Stainton) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), is a serious pest of grains in storage
systems resulting in immense losses but is also widely
used as a factitious host for mass rearing of many important natural enemies of crop pests. Given the role
of kairomones, the aim of this study was to isolate and
identify potential cues from the larval body wash of C.
cephalonica, which could attract its gregarious ectoparasitoid, Habrobracon hebetor (Say) (Hymenoptera:
Braconidae). Gas chromatography with electroantennography (GC-EAG) and olfactory assays were used to
demonstrate the attraction of female H. hebetor to different larval body volatiles. A total of 15 EAG-active
compounds were discovered in the body wash of C.
cephalonica larvae that triggered a response in female
H. hebetor. Among them, four compounds (p-xylene,
naphthalene, n-eicosane and n-tricosane) were bioassayed for the behavioural response of parasitoids and
found that n-eicosane significantly attracted a higher
number of parasitoids than others. Our work establishes
the attraction of H. hebetor to volatile kairomone cues
emanating from the factitious host larval body, which
offers an opportunity for its parasitoid, H. hebetor to
improve the mass rearing efficiency.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Hagstrum, D. and Subramanyam, B., Fundamentals of StoredProduct Entomology, St Paul. Woodhead Publishing and AACC International Press, 2006.
Anukiruthika, T., Jian, F. and Jayas, D. S., Movement and behavioral
response of stored product insects under stored grain environments-A
review. J. Stored Prod. Res., 2021, 90, 101752; https://doi.org/10.
1016/j.jspr.2020.101752.
Literature cited 2: . Coelho, M. B., Marangoni, S. and Macedo, M. L. R., Insecticidal
action of Annona coriacea lectin against the flour moth Anagasta
kuehniella and the rice moth Corcyra cephalonica (Lepidoptera:
Pyralidae). Comp. Biochem. Physiol. Part C, 2007, 146(3), 406–414;
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cbpc.2007.05.001.
Rani, A., Chand, S., Thakur, N. and Nath, A. K., Alpha-amylase
inhibitor from local common bean selection: effect on growth and
development of Corcyra cephalonica. J. Stored Prod. Res., 2018,
75, 35–37; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jspr.2017.10.009.
ID: 64732
Title: Effect of downwash airflow distribution of multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle on spray droplet deposition characteristics in rice crop
Author: D. Yallappa, R. Kavitha, A. Surendrakumar , B. Suthakar, A. P. Mohan Kumar , M. K. Kalarani and Balaji Kannan
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 125 (2) 172-182 (2023)
Subject: Effect of downwash airflow distribution of multi-rotor unmanned aerial vehicle on spray droplet deposition characteristics in rice crop
Keywords: Chemical spray deposition, deposition uniformity, downwash air, droplet size, manual spray, water sensitive paper.
Abstract: The UAV downwash airflow pattern generated by rotor
propellers is one of the significant factors influencing
the characteristics of spray droplet deposition distribution. UAV sprayer and battery operated sprayer were
used to study the effect of downwash airflow distribution of UAV on spray droplet deposition characteristics
in a paddy field. The UAV sprayer was operated with
optimized operational parameters and spray droplet
characteristics, viz. spray deposition rate (µl cm–2
),
spray droplet size (µm), spray deposition density (No’s
cm–2
) and spray deposition uniformity (%) were analysed using Deposit Scan software. The UAV sprayer
showed better results in spray droplet deposition rate,
spray coverage per unit area and spray droplet deposition densities than the conventional battery-operated
manual sprayer. Additionally, it was found that the
UAV sprayer increased the chemical’s penetration into
crop leaves, leading to higher chemical deposition on
both the upper and lower layers of rice leaves.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chen, P., Lan, Y., Douzals, J. P., Ouyang, F., Wang, J. and Xu, W.,
Droplet distribution of unmanned aerial vehicle under several spray
volumes and canopy heights in the cotton canopy. Int. J. Precision
Agric. Aviat., 2020, 1(1), 74–79.
Li, J., Lan, Y. and Shi, Y., Research progress on airflow characteristics and field pesticide application system of rotary-wing UAV.
Trans. Chin. Soc. Agric. Eng., 2018, 34(12), 104–118; doi:10.
11975/j.issn.1002-6819.2018.12.013; http://www.tcsae.org.
Literature cited 2: Lan, Y. et al., Influence of the downwash wind field of plant protection UAV on droplet deposition distribution characteristics at
different flight heights. Agronomy, 2021, 11(12), 2399.
Wang, C. et al., Testing method and distribution characteristics of
spatial pesticide spraying deposition quality balance for unmanned
aerial vehicle. Int. J. Agri. Biol. Eng., 2018, 11(2), 18–26.
ID: 64731
Title: Performance evaluation and optimization of solar operated plot thresher for chickpea seeds
Author: Naveen Kumar, Santosh Rani and Ajay Kumar Sharma
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 125 (2) 165-171 (2023)
Subject: Performance evaluation and optimization of solar operated plot thresher for chickpea seeds
Keywords: FCCCD, optimization, plot thresher, threshing.
Abstract: A study was conducted to optimize machine and operational parameters for the threshing of chickpea seeds
using a portable solar-operated plot thresher. Experiments were conducted at different levels of independent
parameters, viz. cylinder speed (8, 10, 12 m/s), concave
clearance (10, 12, 14 mm) and concave grate clearance
(8, 9, 10 mm). Dependent parameters such as threshing
efficiency, cleaning efficiency, seed damage, threshing
capacity, power consumption and seed germination were
assessed. Face-centered central composite design was
used for experimental design, result analysis and optimization using Design-Expert 11.1.0.1 software package.
The optimized combination for threshing of chickpea
seeds was found to be cylinder speed (10 m/s), concave
clearance (14 mm) and concave grate clearance (9 mm).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon., Food and Agriculture Organization of United Nations,
2020; http://fao.org/faostat/en/#data/QC (retrieved on 10 March
2020).
Sharma, H. O. and Mishra, P. K., An economic analysis of chickpea
and its value added products in agri export zone for pulses of
Madhya Pradesh, JNKV, Jabalpur. Study, 2009, 97, 1–45.
Literature cited 2: Anon., DES, Ministry of Agriculture and FW (DAC&FW), Govt of
India, 2017–18–III Advance Estimate, 2018.
Merga, B., Haji, J. and Fatih, Y., Economic importance of chickpea:
production, value, and world trade. Cogent Food Agric., 2019, 5,
1–12