ID: 66270
Title: Diversity and Distribution of Macrofungi in some Sacred Groves of Bankura District, West Bengal, India
Author: Atanu Nayak , Ram Kumar Bhakat , Prasanta Kumar Pandit
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (2) Feb. Pg No. 99-108 (2025)
Subject: Diversity and Distribution of Macrofungi in some Sacred Groves of Bankura District, West Bengal, India
Keywords: Sacred groves, Macrofungi, Conservation, Bankura district.
Abstract: Sacred groves are traditionally conserved sites which act as safe houses for local biodiversity. Macrofungi are a diverse and ecologically important group of fungi that play various roles in ecosystems though they have received less attention in practice. This work is the first attempt to provide baseline information about assemblage, diversity and distribution pattern of macrofungi in ten isolated sacred groves situated in ten different Civil blocks of Bankura district, West Bengal. These groves conserve 66 species (5 belonging to Ascomycota and 61 belonging to Basidiomycota) of macrofungi, of which a significant portion (69.69%) is saprophytic in nature. Out of those 66 species, only 5 species belong to Ascomycota and the remaining 61 belongs to Basidiomycota. Among the surveyed groves, Simladihi Jaher Than in-houses the maximum number (37) of macrofungi whereas Raidihi Gram than conserve lowest number (7) of the same. Majority of the species (36 spp.) fall into the frequency class A and 21 species belong to frequency class B. However, 3 species show highest frequency percentage (70%). 23 species are consumed as protein rich food by the locals. Out of the edible fungi, some are sold in the nearby market for the livelihood. Some additional observations regarding the threats and status of these groves are also noted. In future, multidimensional data should be collected and processed, to effectively make functional clusters of sacred groves and accordingly to plan a better management strategy.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhakat R.K. (1990).Tribal ethics of forest conservation.Yojana (March 16-31): 23-27. Bhakat R.K. (2003).Socio-religious and ecological perspective of a sacred grove form Midnapore District. Science and Culture, 69: 371-374
Literature cited 2: Bhakat R.K. (2009). Chilkigarh Kanaka Durga Sacred Grove, West Bengal. Current Science, 96:185 Boa E. (2004). Wild edible fungi: A global overview of their use and importance to People. Non-wood Forest Products, No17, FAO, Rome.


ID: 66269
Title: Exploring the Untapped Potential: Picrorhiza kurroa Royle Ex. Benth (Kutki) Cultivation in the Western Himalayas- A Review
Author: S. Rastogi , S. K. Kapta , Rajesh Chauhan
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 70-75 (2025)
Subject: Exploring the Untapped Potential: Picrorhiza kurroa Royle Ex. Benth (Kutki) Cultivation in the Western Himalayas- A Review
Keywords: Picrorhiza kurroa, Kutki, Agro-Technique, Conservation, Cultivation.
Abstract: Picrorhiza kurroa (Kutki) is an endangered species with a restricted habitat of alpine and sub-alpine vegetation in the Himalayas. It is one of the most sorts after medicinal plant at world level and figured among the 37 identified top priority species for conservation and cultivation in Western Himalayas owing to its narrow distribution range, small population size and high value. Its status in the wild is at risk due to indiscriminate, uncontrolled harvesting and a lack of organized cultivation. The cultivation of Kutki can be a profitable venture for farmers and entrepreneurs due to its increasing demand in the herbal medicine industry. Governments of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand are promoting the cultivation of this plant for the last few years. However, the cultivation attempts made by these governments are not sufficient. So, more area should be brought under its cultivation to increase the income of the farmers as well as to save the species from extinction. The efforts put by agencies like JICA should be appreciated and there is urgent need that some more organizations should come up to fund projects like this for ensuring the sustainability of the crop.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon (2024). Kinnaur Ke Nigani aur Taranda me rope kadu Ke 1 Lakh paudhe. Aushdiy kheti ki aur vaniki pariyojna ki pahal.Aaaj Samaj newspaper, 31.07.2024. Bisht VK.Kathait A.S., Negi J.S., Bhandari A.K. and Rana C.S. (2011) Development of Market Supply chain for Piccorhiza kurroa and Saussurea costus in the district Chamoli of the Uttarakhand state, India: A case study. Report and Opinion.3:14-17
Literature cited 2: Chetri N, Sharma E. and Lama S.D. (2005). Non-timber forest produces utilization, distribution and status in a trekking corridor of Sikkim India, Lyonia, 8 (1) :89-101. Dubey N.R., Kumar R and Tripathi P. (2004). Global promotion of herbal medicine: India's opportunity. Current Science, 86 (1) : 37-41.


ID: 66268
Title: Traditional Agroforestry Systems Prevailing in Dehradun District of Uttarakhand
Author: Anjali Vats , Krishna Murari , Gunjan Vats , Charan Singh , Charan Singh
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 61-69 (2025)
Subject: Traditional Agroforestry Systems Prevailing in Dehradun District of Uttarakhand
Keywords: Agroforestry Systems, Traditional, Multipurpose Trees (MPTs), Dehradun, Documentation.
Abstract: This study documented the traditional agroforestry practices and their components in 36 villages distributed among six developmental blocks of Dehradun district. The predominant traditional agroforestry systems observed were Agrisilvihortipastoral, Agrisilvipastoral, Agrisilviculture, Agrisilvihorticulture, and Agripastoral systems. Agrisilvihortipastoral system was most prominent agroforestry practices adopted by nearly 33% of respondents, followed by the Agrisilvipastoral system (31%), Agrisilviculture (17%), Agrisilvihorticulture (7%), and the Agripastoral system (6%). Indigenous Multipurpose Trees (MPTs) were found to grow naturally on the bunds of the farms and are occasionally present scattered in between the farms. Respondents mentioned that Multipurpose trees provide multiproducts and are retained by the farmers on their farms for various uses mainly for fodder and fuelwood. Grewia optiva is the most preferred Multipurpose tree species and was found in all the developmental blocks. Within each of the major agroforestry systems, all the components viz. agricultural crop, MPTs, fruit plants and fodder grass were documented. The study revealed that the traditional agroforestry practices have helped the farmers in meeting their diverse needs i.e. food, fodder, fuelwood, fruit and timber. However, within all the traditional agroforestry systems, their components do not have an optimum representation. To enhance the productivity of these systems, further research and targeted extension efforts are required.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bhatt V. Purohit V.K. and Negi V. (2010).Multipurpose tree species of western Himalaya with an agroforetry prospective for rural needs.Journal of American Science, 6 (1): 73-80 Iqbal K, Hussain A, Khan R.A,Phala N.A. Bhatt J.A an Negi A.K. (2014).Traditional Agroforestry Sytem:A case Study from District Chamoli of Garhwal Himalaya American-Eurasian J.Agric &Environ.Sci, 14 (9): 905-912.
Literature cited 2: Kumar D and Bhardwaj S.D. (1993) Present status and future prospects of integrating agricultural crops and foder in temperate Himalaya.In: Agroforestry Indian Perspective Ashish Publishing House , 8/81,Punjabi Bagh, New Delhi, India, 131-143. Mahato S., Dasgupta S., Todaria N.P. an Singh V.P. (2016).Agroforetry mapping and characterisation in four districts of Grhwal Himalaya.Energy EcolEnviron. 1: 86-97.https://doi.org/10.1007/s40974-016-0020-0.


ID: 66267
Title: Phytodiversity in riparian ecosystems: a case study of Sabartmati river of Gandhinagar municipal coroporation area, Gujarat
Author: Kuldip purani, Rahul parmar,Darshan Machhi,Lopamudra Das and R.K.Sugoor
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 53-60 (2025)
Subject: Phytodiversity in riparian ecosystems: a case study of Sabartmati river of Gandhinagar municipal coroporation area, Gujarat
Keywords: Riparian, Flora, Sabarmati river,Gandhinagar, Phytodiveristy
Abstract: The present work was carried out with a principal aim of documenting the floristic vegetation richness in the riparian zone of the Sabarmati River flowing through the Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation (GMC) areas. Riparian vegetation was sampled by transect-based quadrates surveys. Line intersects have been laid perpendicular to the riverbank towards the landward side in zig-zag pattern. The present study has documented a total of 1333 plant species belonging to 108 genera and 42 families from samoling sites along the Sabarmati riparian area of GMC area. research findings reveal that the Shannon-Wiener diversity (H) index was estimated as 3.899.While Simpson's index (C) was calculated as 0.966 for the study area. The riparian area of the Sabarmati River, which passess through GMC area , exhibits a floral population characterized by a moderate to high species diversity. The data obtained from the present study will contribute to the formulation of long-term management strategy of riparian fora, serving as a fundamental resource for monitoring and conserving the phytodiversity of the riparian area.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Al-Amin M, Alamgir M. and Patwary M.R.A. (2004) Composition and status of undergrowth of a deforested area in Bangladesh. Asian Journal of plant sciences. 3(5): 651-654. Ardakani M.R. (2004). Ecology. Tehran University Press, 340 pp.
Literature cited 2: Bachan A.K.H. (2003). Riparian vegetation along the middle and lower zones of the Chalakudy river, Kwerala, India. Report. Project 26/2000.Kerala Research Program on Local Level Development. Center for DevelopmentStudies,Trivandrum, Kerala. Barbour M. and Burk J.H. (1999). Terrestrial Ecology. Chicago Illinois Addson Wesely Longman, Inc. 69-85.


ID: 66266
Title: Occurrence of Lac insect and its host plants in certain districts of Andhra Pradesh
Author: P.Bhagyapriya,S.R.Koteswra Rao, Sanyasi Dhurua and D.Ramesh
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 49-52 (2025)
Subject: Occurrence of Lac insect and its host plants in certain districts of Andhra Pradesh
Keywords: Lac insects, Kerria lacca, Conocarpus lancifolius, Albizia lebbeck, Albizia saman, Ficus religiosa, Ziziphus mauritiana, Annona squamosa, Schleichera oleosa and Flemingia semialata
Abstract: Survey was conducted for occurrence of lac insects , Kerrria lacca Kerr. (Hemiphera:Tachardiidae) on different hosts in Bapatia (25 mandals), Guntur (17 mandals), Parvathipuram Manyam (15 mandals) and Srikakulam (30mandals) districts of Andhra Pradesh. Occurrence of lac insects was observed in 2 mandals of Bapatia on Conocarpus lancifolius Engl.and Albizia lebbeck (L) Benth, in 9 mandals of Guntur on Albizia saman (Jacq). Merr. ,C.lancifolius, A.lebbeck, Ficus religiosa L., Ziziphus mauritiana Lam.Annona squamosa L; in 1 mandal of Parvathipuram Manyam on Schleichera oleosa (Lour) and in 1 mandal of Srikakulam on Flemingia semialata Roxb.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Kapur A.P. (1954). Some unrecorded host plants of the lacinsect, Laccifer lacca (Kerr) (Homoptera: Lacciferidae), Journal of Bombay Natural History Society, 52: 645-647. Meena S.C., Sharma K.K.,Swami H. and Rana B.S. (2020).Survey record of lac insect Kerria lacca and its host plants in western plants of India. Indian Journal of Agricultural Sciences, 90 (1): 220-225.
Literature cited 2: Mukhopadhyay B. and Muthana M.S. (eds) (1962) A Monographon Lac.Indian Lac Research Institute, Ranchi, India. 378. Rao S.R.K. Naresh T and Rajgopal N.N. (2021) First report of lac insect Kerria thrissurensis Ahmad and Ramamurthy from Andhra Pradesh, with note on geographical and host induced variations. Journal of Entomological Research, 45 (4), 761-764.


ID: 66265
Title: First record of lactrarius hatsudake (Russalaceae), a wild edible Mushroom from India
Author: Dyutiparna Chakraborty, Debala Tudu, Kanad Das and Aniket Ghosh
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 43-48 (2025)
Subject: First record of lactrarius hatsudake (Russalaceae), a wild edible Mushroom from India
Keywords: Basidiomycota, East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya, Phylogeny, Taxonomy
Abstract: Lactarius hatsudake, a reddish latex oozing member of Lactarius section Deliciosi was collected from forests of East Khasi Hills, Meghalaya. This species is well appreciated by the local tribal communities and sold in local markets during monsoon. Detailed macro and micromorphological description, coupled with internal transcribed spacer region of ribosomal DNA (nrITS)-based phylogenetic estimation of this species is presented here. This species is reported for the first time from India.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Agrahar-Murugkar D. and Subbulakshmi G. (2004).Nutritional value of edible wild mushrooms collected from the Khasi hills of Meghalaya. Food Chemistry,89. 599-603. Bera I. and Das K. (2021). Morphology and molecular phylogeny reveal three new records of wild mushrooms from India in lactarius subgenus Russularia.Nelumbo, 63:183-196.
Literature cited 2: Bera I. and Das K. (2020). Morphological description and phylogenetic estimation of Lactarius abieticola 9Russalaceae), a new record for Indian mycobiota. Nelumbo, 62:124-130. Berkeley M.J. (1852).Decades of Fungi, decade XXXIX, XL; Sikkim Manipal Khassaya Fungi.Hooker's Journal of Botany, 4: 130-142.


ID: 66264
Title: Exploration of Medicinal and food values of some wild edible plants from forest resources of Shivalik Hill of Himachal Pradesh
Author: Ruchika Devi and Nitesh Kumar
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 37-42 (2025)
Subject: Exploration of Medicinal and food values of some wild edible plants from forest resources of Shivalik Hill of Himachal Pradesh
Keywords: Biodiversity, Ethnobotanical wealth, Medicinal values, Shivalik hills, Wild edibles
Abstract: The Shivalik Hills in Himachal Pradesh, India is a sub-Himalayan Mountain range that possesses vast and diverse wild edible plants. These plants have traditionally been used for their medicinal and nutritional values by the indigenous people of these areas. The study's findings show the importance of the wild edible plant species of Shivalik Hills which are attached to the traditional health care system. Such plants are essential for sustainable agriculture and may also a source of new medicines. Due to changes in living styles as well as less appreciation for our traditions, the people ignore the importance of these plants. There should be the promotion of integration between traditional knowledge bases and scientific investigates to conserve such threatened, ethnobotanical wealth. In addition, the local community's involvement in protection and conservation of biodiversity and maintaining a green economy through sustainable development practices should be encouraged.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bohner J (2006). General climatic controls and topoclimatic variations in Central and High Asia. Boreas, 35 (2): 279-295. Chowdhery H.J. and Wadhwa B.M. (1984). Flora of Himachal Pradesh: Analysis. Botanical Survey of India. Department of Environment.:1-860.
Literature cited 2: Devi R. Kumar N. and Pathania R. (2024). Ethnomedicinal importance of some wild edible plants of lower foothills of Shivalik range of Himachal Pradesh. Environment Conservation and Sustainable Development: Proceedings of International conference, 359-374. Dogra KS, Kohle R.K. Sood S.K. and Dobhal P.K. (2009). Impact of Ageratum conyzoides L on the diversity and composition of vegetation in the Shivalik hills of Himachal Pradesh (Northwestern Himalaya), India. International Journal of Biodiversity and Conservation, 1 (5): 135-145.


ID: 66263
Title: Distribution mapping and ex-situ conservation of Hildegardia populifolia 9DC) Schott & Endl.: A critically Endangered and multipurpose Tree species
Author: Priyanka. Giriraj Singh Panwar and sandeep Kumar Chauhan
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 32-36 (2025)
Subject: Distribution mapping and ex-situ conservation of Hildegardia populifolia 9DC) Schott & Endl.: A critically Endangered and multipurpose Tree species
Keywords: Critically endangered, Medicinal, Hildegardia, Spatial assessment
Abstract: Hildegardia populifolia is critically endangered tree species of the peninsular India. Fragmented populations of the species are distributed in India and Indonesia. It is being used by the local people for its medicinal and other economical purposes. The overexploitation of species from wild and fragmentation of small population has rendered the species towards extinction risk. Thus, the present study was aimed with the distribution mapping and ex-situ conservation of species for the preservation of germplasm.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahmedullah M. (1990). In: Nayar M.P. Sastry A.R.K. (eds) Hildegardia populifolia (Roxb). Schott. & Endl. Sterculiaceae.Red data book of Indian Plants, vol3 Botanical Survey of India, Calcutta, pp 251-254. Anuradha T. and Pullaih T. (2001).Effect of hormones on the organogenesis and the somatic embryogenesis of an endangered tropical Forest tree-Hildegardia populifolia (Roxb)Schott & Endl.Talwania, 46:62-74.
Literature cited 2: Anuradha T. and Pullaih T. (2004).In viro germination studies on Hildegardia populifolia 9Roxb) Schott & Endl-an endangered tree taxon. The Indian Forester, 130: 1432-1438. Arenes J. (1959). Sterculiaceae.pp.22-30. In: Humbert, H.(ed). Flore Madagascar, 131.Museum national d'Histoire naturelle, Paris. France.


ID: 66262
Title: Marketing of Non-timber forest produce by large-sized adivasi multipurpose cooperative societies in Kodagu District of Karnataka
Author: G.Basavaraj and R.G. Akash
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 25-31 (2025)
Subject: Marketing of Non-timber forest produce by large-sized adivasi multipurpose cooperative societies in Kodagu District of Karnataka
Keywords: Non-Timber Forest Produce, LAMPS, Marketing , Kodagu, Tribals
Abstract: The present study was undertaken in Kodagu district of Karnataka state during 2021-22 to study the marketing activities of Large Sized Adivasi Multipurpose Cooperative Society 9LAMPS).A sample of 45 members from three LAMPS namely Bhagamandala LAMPS, Thitimathi LAMPS and Basavanhalli LAMPS were selected for the study. The primarily mandate of LAMPS is collection and marketing of Non-timber Forest Products (NTFPs) of members. Among the three LAMPS, Bhagamandala LAMPS procured and sold the highest quantity of NTFPS at 86, 105 kg and was the only LAMPS running under profit with an average return on investments ratio of 0.85. Two channels of marketing were observed for marketing of NTFPs. Basavanahalli LAMPs realized a margin of Rs 65/kg by processing shikakai to powder and the collector's share in consumer rupee for shikakai was 50 percent.NRFPs have niche market and Kodagu being a major tourist destination, scope to market NTFPs directly to consumers is very high. Hence, LAMPs should take up value addition activity and self-value-added products of NTFPs directly to consumers to enable the collectors realize highest share in consumer rupee.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Brahmanandam T. and Babu T. (2016). The Northeastern Hill University (NEHU) Journal. Vol XIV, No.2, pp 69-85. GoI (Government of India). (2013). Statistical Profile of Scheduled Tribes i n India. Ministry of Tribal Affairs Statistics Division. Government of India.
Literature cited 2: Government of Karnataka, Department of Coperation.www.shakarasindhu.com Kalsani ,M., Reddy 92018). The significance of Minor Forest Produce in the Indian Tribal Economy. In Cambridge Scholars Publishing.Lady Stephenson Library, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE62PA, UK.


ID: 66261
Title: Studies on phytoplanktonic diersity in relation to physicochemical parameters and Palmer's pollution Index in Khairan strem: A case study from Shivalik Ranges, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
Author: Shivali Sharma ad Harinder Singh Banyal
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 18-24 (2025)
Subject: Studies on phytoplanktonic diersity in relation to physicochemical parameters and Palmer's pollution Index in Khairan strem: A case study from Shivalik Ranges, Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, India
Keywords: Phytoplankton, Shivalik ranges, Himachal Pradesh, water quality, Palmer's Pollution Index, Pearson correlation
Abstract: The present research article with study of phytoplankton diversity in relation to physicochemical parameters of the Khairan stream, a tributary of Beas River in Shivalik ranges of Kangra district, Himachal Pradesh, India. Total of 27 genera of phytoplankton were recorded, out of which 14 genera belong to Baccilariophycae, 11 genera belong to Chlorophycae, while remaining 2 genera belongs to Cyanophycae.One-way ANOVA analysis shows that there is significant difference in plankton diversity with respect to seasons (F1 3.39>Script 2.44).Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis was parameters and phytoplankton assemblage. Additionally, Palmer's Pollution Index (PPI) was used to evaluate the overall pollution status of the stream. The calculate PPI values indicates that there is high pollution level in the stream during summer (20) due to low water level, followed by winter (18), spring (16), monsoon (10) and autumn (5), so proper conservation strategies are needed to preserve the native biodiversity especially fishes of said water body.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: American Public Health Association (1998).Standard Methods for the examination of water and wastewater .20th ed.American Public Health Association,Wshington, D.C. Anonymous (2024).About District / District Kangra.Government of Himachal Pradesh/India (hpkangra.nic.in)
Literature cited 2: APHA, AWWA, and WEF (2005). Standard methods for the examination of water and waste water (21sted). New York, Washington, DC: Jointly prepared and published by the Americal Public Health Association, American Water Works Association, and Water Environment Federation. Baranova O.K., O'Brien T., Boyer T.P. and Smolyar I.V. (2009).Plankton data. World Ocean Database, NOAA Atlas NESDIS, 66.


ID: 66260
Title: Improvement in propagation through seed pre-treatmnt in Medicinally important plant Cowitch (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.)
Author: Vikas Yadav Patade,Nirbhay Singh, Atul Grover and Madhu Bala
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 14-17 (2025)
Subject: Improvement in propagation through seed pre-treatmnt in Medicinally important plant Cowitch (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC.)
Keywords: Cowitch, Seed, Germination, Pre-treatment, Acid scarification
Abstract: Cowitch (Mucuna pruriens (L) DC.) is an important medicinal plant. Germination was found very poor and slow in a genotype of the seed propagated plant. Present study reports effects of scarification with concentrated (98% v/v) sulfuric acid for different durations (5,10, 30, 60, 120 min) followed by water soaking for 24 h on seed germination and seedlings establishment. Acid pre-treatment for 120 min resulted in significantly (Ps 0.05) higher seed germination (95.0%) than the control (27.5%) water soaked (27.5%) and the shorter acid treatments. Further, the rate of germination was significantly higher in acid pre-treatment for 120 min (Timson's index: 76.0) than the control (Timson's index: 14.0) and the shorter acid treatments seedling establishment was also significantly improved in the acid treatment (92.0%) than the control (20.5%).The acid pre-treatment to the seeds did not cause any adverse effects on seedling vigor, morphology and reproductive growth of the plants. The present study thus suggests acid treatment for 120 min for higher and rapid seed germination for propagation of the medicinally important plant.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Aaron A, Maheshwari D.K., Dheeman S. , Agarwal M., Dubey R.C., Bajpai V.K. (2017).Plant growth promotion and suppression of charcoal-rot fungus (Macrophomina phaseolina ) in velvet bean (Mucuna pruriens L) by root nodule bacteria. Journal of Phytopathology. 165:463-478. Gurumoorthi P.Pugalenthi M. and Janardhana K. (2003a) Nutritional potential of five accessories of a south Indian tribal pulse Mucuna pruriens var.utilis; II.Investigation on total free phenolics, tannins, trypsin and chymotrypsin inhibitors, phytohaemagglutinnins, and in vitro protein digestibility. Trop Subtrop Agroecosyss, 1: 153-158.
Literature cited 2: Gurumoorthi,P., Senthil K.S., Vadivel V. and Janardhanan K. (2003b). Studies on agrobotanical characters of different accessions of velvet bean collected from Western Ghats, South India. Tropical and Subtropical Agroecosystems, 2: 105-115. Harvais G and Hadley G. (1967). The development of Orchis Purpurella in asymbiotic and inoculated cultures.New phytologist, 66:217-230.


ID: 66259
Title: Effect of different tree species on physico-chemical properties of soil under Rainfed comnditions of south-west Haryana
Author: Asha, P.K.Yadav , N.Kaushik ,Ram Prakash , M.K.Jat and Diksha Saroha
Editor: Richa Misra
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 8-13 (2025)
Subject: Effect of different tree species on physico-chemical properties of soil under Rainfed comnditions of south-west Haryana
Keywords: Maconutrients, Micronutrients, soil depth, soil organic carbon, Tree species
Abstract: The cultivation of tree species helps in nutrient cycling, microclimate regulation, green manure provision and long-term land cover, which helps reduce soil erosion, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This study, conducted for first time at the Regional Research Station, Bawal, Haryana, India, assessed the impact of three tree species (Pongamaia pinnata, prosopis cineraria and Ailanthus excelsa) on soil properties under rainfed conditions. Soil samples were collected from various depths (0-15, 15-30, 30-60, 60-90, 90-120, 120-150 and 150-180 cm) and analyzed for texture , Ph, EC, organic carbon, Carbon content and leaf-litter nutrient status .Results showed that P.cineraria reduced soil pH (7.51), EC (0.19 dSm-1), and CaCO3 (0%) compared to the control (pH 8.3, EC 0.22 dSm-1, and 0.39% Cacon), with these properties increasing with soil depth. Organic carbon content was significantly higher under the tree species (0.42 % for P.cineraria, 0.41 % for A. excelsa, and 0.33 % for P.pinnata) compared to the control (0.195).Leaf nutrient content, particularly NPK and micronutrients (except Mn), varied significantly among species, with P.cineraria showing the highest concentrations. The study highlights the potential of these tree species to improve soil quality and restore fertility through in situ manuring due to their high nutrient content.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Asha, Yadav P.K. Jat M., Prakash R.Singh C.and Kumar (2023). Soil fertility status under long-term block plantations of different tree species in South -West Haryana. Annals of Plant and Soil Research, 25 (2): 255-261. Barkham J.P., Waring R.H. and Schlesinger W.H. (1987) Forest Ecosystems: Concepts and Management. Journal or Ecology, 75 (1): 284.
Literature cited 2: Bhargava B.S. and Raghupati H.B. (1993)., Methods of analysis of soils. Plants, waters and fertilizers. Fertilizer development and consultation organization, 54-60. Charpin F.S.Matson P.A. Mooney H.A. and Vitousek P.M (2002). Principles of terrestrial ecosystem ecology.


ID: 66258
Title: Melia dubia Progenies from Satpura and Sahyadri Ranges o fSouth Gujarat have potential for salinity tolerance
Author: David Camus D, N.S. Thakur, D.P.Patel, R.P.Gunaga, R.S.Chauhan and Y.A. Garde
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 151 (1) Jan. Pg No. 1-7 (2025)
Subject: Melia dubia Progenies from Satpura and Sahyadri Ranges o fSouth Gujarat have potential for salinity tolerance
Keywords: Salinity tolerance, Melia dubia, progeny, Multi-index evaluation, Physiological traits
Abstract: Rising salinity in agricultural lands threatens sustainable crop production. This study investigates salinity tolerance mechanisms in eight Melia dubia progenies from South Gujarat, India. A multi-index physiological approach (total plant salinity tolerance), Na- exclusion index, osmotic tolerance index, fresh weight. Significant variation was observed among progenies (p<0.05).P5, P6, P7 and P8 consistently displayed superior performance across all parameters, indicating their potential for saline environments (Between 3 ds/sin/m to 9 d/s/m). Notably, each high performing progeny exhibited distinct tolerance strengths, suggesting diverse coping mechanisms. Future research should explore the genetic basis of this mechanisms and conduct field trials for real-world validation. This combined approach will be crucial for developing and deploying salt-tolerant M.dubia for ecological restoration.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Aziz A. ,Munns and James R.A. (2018). Salinity tolerance in plants: a complex web of physiological adaptations. Plant and Cell Physiology, 59 (6): 1063-1084. Chauhan R.S. Thakur N.S. Gunaga R.P. Bhuva D.C. and Jadeja D.NB. (2019).Assessment of germination attributes in candidate plus trees (CPTs) of Malabar Neem (Melia dubia Cav). Indian Journal of Ecology, 46 (2): 335-339.
Literature cited 2: Jilaria D.J., Thakur N.S. and Gunaga R.P.(2017). Quantitative and qualitative attributes of Aloe Vera Linn. grown under Melia composite Wild. and sole cropping systems. Indian Journal of Ecology, 44 (5): 451-455. Kumar A. Savita S.P., Sharma S., Dobhal S., Rana A. and Kumar R. (2017).Development of high yielding varieties of Meli dubia Cav. (Syn.M.Composita Benth). Indian Forester., 143 (11) : 1203-1206.


ID: 66257
Title: Grey pineapple mealybug, Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera): an emerging pest of tuberose in India
Author: D. M. Firake, Sunil Joshi P. Naveen Kumar T. N. Saha , V. S. Raju Dantuluri and K. V. Prasad
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (9) 946-950 10 May (2025)
Subject: Grey pineapple mealybug, Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley (Pseudococcidae: Hemiptera): an emerging pest of tuberose in India
Keywords: Dysmicoccus brevipes, Gulchhadi, Polianthes tuberosa, Rajanigandha, Solenopsis geminate, Sungandharaja.
Abstract: Tuberose (Agave amica) is a highly valued flower crop in India, known for its consistently high returns and ability to thrive in various climatic conditions. Severe outbreaks of the grey pineapple mealybug, Dysmicoccus neobrevipes Beardsley (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae), have been observed in several villages of Pune district, Maharashtra (India), since 2021, leading to significant economic losses. The present study provides an illustrative morphological diagnosis of D. neobrevipes and basic information on its field establishment, impact on tuberose crop, nature of the damage and field symptoms, etc. Surveys conducted in major tuberose-growing areas of Pune district (Maharashtra) revealed that the mealybug primarily infests the underground and basal portion of tuberose plants, causing stunted growth, drooping and ultimately death of the plants. D. neobrevipes produces honeydew, fostering sooty mould growth that impairs photosynthesis and reduces flower yield. It also infests tuberose bulbs, spoiling them in storage. Based on primary scientific literature, the present study represents a scientifically confirmed record of D. neobrevipes as a new pest of tuberose in India. The ant species Solenopsis geminata was found attending to mealybug colonies, aiding their spread and creating a nuisance for farmers during routine field activities. A total of 87.09% of the surveyed fields (n = 62) showed mealybug infestation, ranging from 68% to 97%. Raising awareness among the farmers and implementing regular monitoring in tuberose-growing areas are crucial steps for developing effective management practices and preventing the further spread of this pest to other regions
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Singh, K. P., Tiwari, A. K. and Saha, T. N., AICRP on Floriculture, ICAR Database on Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa Linn.) (2010–11 to 2013–14). ICAR-DFR Technical Bulletin No. 17. ICAR Directorate of Floricultural Research, College of Agriculture Campus, Pune, India, 2015. Sadhukhan, R., Chowdhuri, T. K. and Datta, S. K., Tuberose (Polyanthes tuberosa Linn./Agave amica). In Floriculture and Ornamental Plants, Springer Singapore, Singapore, 2021, pp. 1–52; https:// doi.org/10.1007/978-981-15-3518-5_17.
Literature cited 2: Mani, M. and Krishnamoorthy, A., Field efficacy of Australian ladybird beetle, Cryptolaemus montrouzieri Mulsant in the suppression of stripped mealybug Ferrisia virgata (Cockerell) on tuberose. J. Biol. Control., 2007, 21 (Special Issue), 129–131. Shanthi, M., Nalini, R., Rajavel, D. S. and Murali Baskaran, R. K., Occurrence of mealybug, Ferrisia virgata Cock on tuberose in Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Insect Environ., 2008, 13(4), 149


ID: 66256
Title: Observational aspects of cyclonic storm ‘ASNA’ – a rare tropical cyclone over the Arabian Sea during peak southwest monsoon months
Author: Santosh Singh, Satya Prakash and M. Mohapatra
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2025
Publisher: Current Science Association and Indian Academy of Sciences.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Reference: Current Science Vol. 128 (9) 940-945 10 May (2025)
Subject: Observational aspects of cyclonic storm ‘ASNA’ – a rare tropical cyclone over the Arabian Sea during peak southwest monsoon months
Keywords: Arabian Sea, maximum sustained wind, meteorological satellites, southwest monsoon, tropical cyclone
Abstract: The Arabian Sea basin of the North Indian Ocean witnessed two and three Cyclonic Storms (CS) during the peak southwest monsoon months of July and August respectively, between 1891 and 2023. In 2024, a CS ‘ASNA’ formed over the Arabian Sea on 30 August. It is the first CS over the Arabian Sea during peak monsoon months (July–August) in the Indian meteorological satellite era. This preliminary study examines the movement of CS, starting from its formation as a lowpressure area over the North Bay of Bengal and associated rainfall. The capabilities of optical and microwave satellite sensors in centre and intensity determination of this CS have also been discussed. An assessment of real-time intensity estimates through the maximum sustained wind and centre positions from different techniques across the global agencies showed considerable differences among them.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Mohapatra, M., Sharma, M., Devi, S. S., Kumar, S. V. J. and Sabade, B. S., Frequency of genesis and landfall of different categories of tropical cyclones over the North Indian Ocean. Mausam, 2021, 72, 1–26. Mohapatra, M. and Sharma, M., Cyclone warning services in India during recent years: a review. Mausam, 2019, 70, 635–666
Literature cited 2: Singh, V. K. and Roxy, M. K., A review of ocean–atmosphere interactions during tropical cyclones in the north Indian Ocean. EarthSci. Rev., 2022, 226, 103967; https://doi.org/10.1016/j.earscirev. 2022.103967. Deshpande, M., Singh, V. K., Ganadhi, M. K., Roxy, M. K., Emmanuel, R. and Kumar, U., Changing status of tropical cyclones over the north Indian Ocean. Clim. Dynamic., 2021, 57, 3545–3567; https://doi.org/10.1007/s00382-021-05880-z