Enter records

ID: 66154
Title: Nurturing nuclear power in India
Author: R. B. Grover
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 (3) 240 -244 (2025)
Subject: Nurturing nuclear power in India
Keywords: Amendments, Atomic Energy Act, fuel cycle, small reactors, system costs.
Abstract: The nuclear industry made a beginning with critical facilities and research reactors, and then moved on to power reactors. Initially, the reactor size was small but was gradually increased to 700– 1600 MW range to realise the economy of scale. Lessons learnt from various incidents in nuclear reactors have been incorporated into the designs of operating third-generation reactors. The fourth generation of reactors where the goal includes breeding, utilisation of thorium, achieving high temperature for hydrogen generation and improving cycle efficiency is going through a developmental process that could take a long time to realise. Public perception of nuclear energy has fluctuated over time. The present perception is quite positive because of concerns arising from climate change. At COP-28 in December 2023, 25 nations declared their intent to triple nuclear-installed capacity by mid-century. At COP-29, six more countries joined the group of 25. India plans to triple nuclear installed capacity much earlier than mid-century. The Department of Atomic Energy (DAE), Government of India, has projected a target of 100 GW by 2050, which is more than ten times increase compared to the present installed capacity.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: RFP No. NPCIL/BSR-220 MWe/2024/01; https://www.npcil.nic.in/ writereaddata/CMS/202412300511513510127RFP_Document_31- 122024_01.pdf (accessed on 2 January 2025). Grover, R. B., Development-led transition to net zero. Curr. Sci., 2024, 126(8), 867–868.
Literature cited 2: Bhattacharyya, R., Singh, K. K., Grover, R. B. and Bhanja, K., Estimating minimum energy requirement for transitioning to a net-zero, developed India in 2070. Curr. Sci., 2022, 122(5), 517– 527. INSAG-19, Maintaining the design integrity of nuclear installations throughout their operating life, A report by the International Nuclear Safety Advisory Group, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria, 2003

ID: 66153
Title: Raj-Sheetal: India’s first horse foal born through vitrified embryo transfer
Author: Thirumala Rao Talluri, Sajjan Kumar, Ramesh Kumar Dedar, S. C. Mehta and Tarun Kumar Bhattacharya
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 (3) 238 -239 (2025)
Subject: Raj-Sheetal: India’s first horse foal born through vitrified embryo transfer
Keywords: None
Abstract: India has a complex amalgamation of varying terrains and climatic conditions in which different species of the family Equidae play diverse roles. Our country is bestowed with a rich biodiversity of equids, which is reflected in the form of eight distinct horse breeds, namely Marwari, Kathiawari, Kachhi-Sindhi, Zanskari, Spiti, Bhutia, Manipuri and recently recognized Bhimthadi horse . These breeds of horses are distinct not only because of their adaptation to different agroclimatic conditions prevailing in the country but also because they have unique performance traits. The 19th and 20th Livestock Census (2012– 2019) data reveals that the population of horses, donkeys and mules in the country is 0.34, 0.12 and 0.08 millions respectively, and they have gone down by 45.58%, 61.23% and 57.09% respectively. Collectively, the equines have reduced by 52.71% during this period1 . The equine population is dwindling continuously and swiftly, which reflects its fast-reducing economic and social importance due to rapid mechanization of agriculture and transport and little effort in genetic improvement through selection.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: GoI, Basic Animal Husbandry Statistics, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, 2022; http://dahd.nic.in Talluri, T. R. et al., Curr. Sci., 2024, 126(3), 303.
Literature cited 2: Talluri, T. R. et al., Indian J. Anim. Sci., 2016, 86(2), 163167; https://doi.org/10.56093/ ijans.v86i2.55797. Talluri, T. R. et al., Indian J. Anim. Sci., 2021, 90(10), 14141417; https://doi.org/10. 56093/ijans.v90i10.111418.

ID: 66152
Title: Water security in Himalaya: science of water resource management
Author: G. C. S. Negi, D. P. Uniyal, G. S. Rawat, Durgesh Pant, Bhawna Sharma and Samridhi Sharma
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 (3) 232 -233 (2025)
Subject: Water security in Himalaya: science of water resource management
Keywords: None
Abstract: Western Himalayan states of India are endowed with abundant water resources that have served as a lifeline for the local communities for centuries1 . Rural communities in Uttarakhand traditionally depend upon springs (locally called Dhara), stepwells (i.e. 1–2 m deep wells; Naula) and streams for drinking and other purposes. However, in recent decades, these water sources have dried up or have become seasonal due to both anthropogenic (deforestation, grazing, forest fire, urbanisation, road construction, mining, etc.) and natural factors (climate change, drought and erratic rainfall, soil erosion, seismic activities, etc.) leading to scarcity of water during lean months; forcing people (particularly women and children) to travel longer distances to fetch potable water, consume unhygienic water, face water-borne diseases and conflicts over water access, discontinue agriculture and out-migrate2,3. Similar reports are coming from across the Indian Himalayan region and suitable measures are being devised to address the issue
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: NITI Aayog, Report of Working Group I: Inventory and Revival of Springs in the Himalayas for Water Security: Contributing to Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region, Govt of India, New Delhi, 2018, p. 70. Tambe, S., Kharel, G., Arrawatia, M. L., Kulkarni, H., Mahamuni, K. and Ganeriwala, A. K., Mount. Res. Dev., 2011, 32(1), 62– 72
Literature cited 2: Shrestha, R. B. et al., Protocol for Reviving Springs in the Hindu Kush Himalayas: A Practitioner’s Manual, International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD) Manual 2018, ICIMOD, Kathmandu, Nepal, 2018, p. 86. Valdiya, K. S. and Bartarya, S. K., Curr. Sci., 1989, 58, 417–426.

ID: 66151
Title: Invasive surge: swift feast of bellicose alien mussel, Mytella strigata in Indian mangroves
Author: P.R.Divya and T.T.Ajith Kumar
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 (3) 229 -229 (2025)
Subject: Invasive surge: swift feast of bellicose alien mussel, Mytella strigata in Indian mangroves
Keywords: None
Abstract: Mytella strigata, commonly referred to as the Charru mussel, is a species native to the Pacific coasts of Central and South America. Over time, it has emerged as an invasive species across various regions, including the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and India. This species is officially recognised as an invasive alien species in the World Register of Introduced Marine Species database. The initial documentation of M. strigata in Indian waters occurred in the Cochin backwaters, with subsequent sightings along the coastal regions of Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Odisha. In this context, its presence and invasiveness have now been observed in the Vellar estuary and the newly designated Ramsar site, Pichavaram mangroves in Tamil Nadu.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Rawat, S. and Padua, S., Thalassas, 2024, 40, 411–422; https://doi.org/10.1007/s412- 08-023-00610-0.
Literature cited 2: Sandilyan, S., Sambandam, Babu, C. R., Chintala and Sudhakar Reddy, C., Invasive Alien Species of India, National Biodiversity Authority, Government of India, 2018.

ID: 66150
Title: Influence of some plant growth regulators on fruit set, yield and quality of sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) var. Arka Neelachal Vikram
Author: D. Samant , K. Kishore, G.C. Acharya, S. Singh and S. Behera
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 144-151 (2025)
Subject: Influence of some plant growth regulators on fruit set, yield and quality of sugar apple (Annona squamosa L.) var. Arka Neelachal Vikram
Keywords: Fruit set, Fruit quality, Gibberellic acid, Plant growth regulators, Sugar apple
Abstract: Sugar apple (Annona squamosa L., 2n=2x=14), also known as custard apple and sweetsop, is the most commercially valued fruit crop of the Annonaceae family because of its excellent organoleptic, nutritional, and medicinal properties. It is indigenous to tropical South America and the West Indies, however, it is widely distributed and spread throughout the tropics and subtropics of the globe on account of its hardy nature and excellent consumer acceptance. It was brought to India by the th Portuguese and Spanish during the 16 century (Soni et al., 2021). At present, it is found in wild, semi-wild, and cultivated habitats on a wide range of Indian soils (sandy, rocky, gravelly, heavy, and sandy loams) and environments (arid, semi-arid, tropical, and sub-tropical). It is popularly known as sharifa in North India and sitaphal in South India (Yadav et al., 2017). It is commercially cultivated on a sizeable area of 46,000 ha with an annual production of 4.01 lakh MT (NHB, 2018). Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Odisha, and Rajasthan are the major sweetsop-growing states. Despite, its popularity and ability to thrive in India’s diverse edaphoclimatic conditions, its full horticultural potential in terms of area, production, productivity, commercialization, and utilization remains unrealized.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Ahmed, W., F.M. Tahir, I.A. Rajwana, S.A. Raza and H.U. Asad: Comparative evaluation of plant growth regulators for preventing premature fruit drop and improving fruit quality parameters in ‘Dusehri” mango. Int. J. Fruit Sci., 12, 372-389 (2012). Aly, M.A. Ezz, M. Thanaa, M.G.A. El-Gawad and K.H. Naghreesh: Effect of some growth regulators on productivity, fruit quality and storability of sugar apple Anona squamosa L. Nat. Volati. Essent. Oils, 8, 12298-12316 (2021).
Literature cited 2: AOAC: Official Methods of Analysis. 17 Edn., Association of Official Analytical Chemist, Washington DC, USA, 2200 pages (2000). Baidya, B.K., K. Kishore, D. Samant, S.N. Dash, R.K. Panda, A. Sahu and K.K. Shukla: Influence of some plant growth regulators on quality attributes of pineapple (Ananas comosus L.). Int. J. Plant Soil Sci., 34, 845-854 (2022).

ID: 66149
Title: Dormancy induction for advancement of flowering and harvest maturity in peaches under subtropical climate
Author: S.K. Banyal , H. Singh , U.R. Patial and K. Jarial
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 137-143 (2025)
Subject: Dormancy induction for advancement of flowering and harvest maturity in peaches under subtropical climate
Keywords: Dormancy, Flowering, Fruit maturity, Peach
Abstract: Peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch), is a significant stone fruit that thrives in temperate zone with a relatively warmer climate compared to other fruits of the same category. Peach cultivation spans from 10° to 49° latitude, where long seasons and warm temperatures are prevalent. Typically grown in low and mid hills, peaches flourish at altitudes ranging from 1000 to 2000 m above mean sea level (Chauhan et al., 2021). This juicy fruit, known for its exceptional appearance and quality, is native to North-West China, specifically the region between the Tarim Basin and Northern slopes of Kunlun Mountains, where it was initially domesticated and cultivated many years ago (Li et al., 2013). Belonging to the Rosaceae family, subfamily Prunoidae, peaches are among the most important stone fruits cultivated in different regions worldwide. The term "stone fruit" is attributed to peaches due to their hard endocarp. Peaches hit the market early in the season, especially those from low-chilling cultivars grown in warmer regions of Himachal Pradesh. Fruit trees that require high or medium chilling hours struggle to thrive in regions with warm winters due to insufficient chilling accumulation during dormancy (Salama et al., 2021). As a winter dormant plant, peaches need a specific number of chilling hours to release buds from dormancy and bloom in the subsequent spring.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Chandra, R. and K.K. Singh: Foliar application of zinc sulphate, magnesium sulphate and copper sulphate on the yield and quality of aonla (Emblica officinallis Gaerth L.) cv. “NA-7” under Garhwal Himalaya. J. Med. Pla. Stu., 3, 42-45 (2015). Chauhan, A., K. Kumar, D. Singh and R.K. Dogra: Characterization of peach [Prunus persica (L.) Batsch] Germplasm Using UPOV Test gudielines. Ind. J. Pla. Gen. Res., 34, 475-482 (2021)
Literature cited 2: Costa, C., P.J.C. Stassen and J. Mudzunga: Chemical rest breaking agents for the South African pome and stone fruit industry. In: XXVI International Horticultural Congress: Key Processes in the Growth and Cropping of Deciduous Fruit and Nut Trees, 636, 295-302 (2002). El-Agamy, S.Z., A.M. El-Salhy and M.M. El-Wasfy: Effect of some rest breaking agents, fruit thinning and girdling on fruiting of some peach cultivars under Assiut environment. Fifth Arab. Hort. Conf. Ismai. Egypt., 11, 133-145 (2001)

ID: 66148
Title: Securing the livelihood of Mishmi Hills tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, India: Pioneering sustainable approach
Author: W. Tayang, M. Nirmala Devi and C. Karthikeyan
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 128-136 (2025)
Subject: Securing the livelihood of Mishmi Hills tribes in Arunachal Pradesh, India: Pioneering sustainable approach
Keywords: Commercialization Model, Coptisteeta, Mishmi teeta, Smart PLS-Sem, Sustainable strategies
Abstract: Climate change stands out as a global concern trending in the 21 century, demonstrating a significant impact on the biodiversity, economies and communities worldwide. It is evident that plant diversity with a narrow geographical distribution in the Himalayan regions are most affected as the region is considered the most delicate ecosystem in the world (Kattel, 2022; Manish, 2022). Considering that climate change is one of the major threats to plant diversity worldwide (Sarma et al., 2023; Sarma et al., 2024), scientific studies have revealed that in the Eastern Himalayan region, numerous human-induced threats are also associated with climate change. Human activities over 50 years have mainly contributed the most to global warming (Solomon et al., 2007), which has created greater disadvantages for the marginal communities of less developed areas and extreme rural regions (Kanwal and Lodhi, 2018). The state of Arunachal Pradesh in India falls under the Eastern Himalayan region which includes the great Mishmi Hills along with other Hills and has been recognised as one of the regions experiencing a rise in the mean annual temperature. Scientists have also predicted that these regions will continue to experience increase of temperature, confirming the significant impacts on the ecosystem, biodiversity and communities of these regions (Kanwal and Lodhi, 2018).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Abbott, R.: Documenting traditional medical knowledge. World Intellectual Property Organization. 52 pages (March, 2014). Andrade, G.S.M. and J.R. Rhodes: Protected areas and local communities: an inevitable partnership toward successful conservation strategies?. Ecol. Soci., 17, 16 pages (2012).
Literature cited 2: Bajpay, A., R.C. Nainwal and D. Singh: Coptisteeta: a potential endemic and endangered medicinal plant of Eastern Himalayas. J.Pharmaco. Phytoche., 8, 245-248 (2019). Bora, H., M. Kamle, S. Chopra and P. Kumar: Evaluation of phytochemical components, antioxidant, and antibacterial activities of Coptis teetaWalls. Int. J. Pharmac. Res. Allied Sci., 11, 140-150 (2022).

ID: 66147
Title: Kinetics of lead sorption by farm yard manure
Author: M. Ganesan and C. Thiyagarajan
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 114-123 (2025)
Subject: Kinetics of lead sorption by farm yard manure
Keywords: Adsorption, Farm yard manure, Kinetic models, Lead
Abstract: Urbanisation and industrialisation have led to increased metal pollution in the aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems (Huang et al., 2017) resulting in environmental disequilibrium and health hazards. Heavy metals are non-degradable pollutants that persist in the environment for a longer period of time. It has no specific biological role in human beings and is a potential neurotoxin that accumulates in the kidney, brain, muscles and bones causing hypertension, anaemia, hepatitis, kidney and brain damage (Sumiahadi and Acar, 2018). It gets accumulated in the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems through industrial activities such as production of batteries, gasoline additives, pigments, alloys, sheets, steel, batteries and petrol (Meng et al., 2016). Hence, developing a suitable management strategy is warranted for effective remediation of lead polluted ecosystems. Developing a low cost-efficient technology for removal and reclamation of heavy metals has grown into a vital research theme around the globe (Ojedokun and Bello, 2016). Several techniques like microbial degradation, membrane separation, bioaccumulation, ion exchange, chemical precipitation, coagulation-flocculation, reverse osmosis, and electrodeposition have been exercised to sequester heavy metals from the aqueous environment (Mudhoo et al., 2012). However, these techniques fail to completely remove the trace-level of heavy metals, consume energy and chemical reagents extensively, and generate toxic by-products which require further supplementary treatment (Li et al., 2016
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Abu-Danso, E., S. Peräniemi, T. Leiviskä and A. Bhatnagar: Synthesis of S-ligand tethered cellulose nanofibers for efficient removal of Pb (II) and Cd (II) ions from synthetic and industrial wastewater. Environ. Pollut., 242, 988-1997 (2018). Aharoni, C., D.L. Sparks and S. Levinson and I. Ravina: Kinetics of soil chemical reactions: Relationships between empirical equations and diffusion models. SSSA J., 55, 1307-1312 (1991)
Literature cited 2: Ahmad, I., M.J. Akhtar, I.B.K. Jadoon, M. Imran and S. Ali: Equilibrium modelling of cadmium biosorption from aqueous solution by compost. Environ. Sci. Pollut. Res., 24, 5277-5284 (2017). Baruah, N., N. Gogoi and M. Farooq: Influence of biochar and organic soil amendments on bioavailability and immobilization of copper and lead to common cocklebur in acidic sandy loam soil. J. Environ. Chem. Eng., 8, 104480 (2020)

ID: 66146
Title: Spatial variability of soil organic carbon in Tamil Nadu: Integrating remote sensing and machine learning approaches
Author: B.K.R. Bobbiti , S. Maragatham , R. Santhi , D. Balachander , D. Vijayalakshmi , V. Davamani , V. Duraisamy and M. Gopalakshinan
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 103-113 (2025)
Subject: Spatial variability of soil organic carbon in Tamil Nadu: Integrating remote sensing and machine learning approaches
Keywords: Carbon sequestration, Digital soil mapping, Estimation models, Environmental covariates, Land management
Abstract: Soil organic carbon (SOC) is a fundamental component of global carbon cycle, acting as the largest terrestrial carbon reservoir. It is estimated that approximately 1500 petagrams of carbon are stored within the upper meter of soil, making it a critical element in the Earth's climate system. The management of SOC is essential for mitigating climate change, as it can both sequester atmospheric carbon and release it under certain conditions. The sensitivity of SOC to human activities, such as land use changes and agricultural practices, as well as to climate variations, underscores its significance in global efforts to manage carbon emissions and combat climate change. Consequently, accurate estimation of SOC distribution is vital for understanding its role in the global carbon cycle and for developing effective carbon management strategies (Hengl et al., 2018; Ogle 2018; Fahad et al., 2021). Traditional soil mapping methods heavily rely on manual field surveys and expert knowledge. While these methods have been invaluable in advancing our understanding of soil properties, they are inherently limited by their labor-intensive nature, time-consuming procedures, and often insufficient spatial resolution.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adhikari,K, A.E.Hartemink, B. Minasny, R. BouKheir, M.B. Greve and M.H. Greve: Digital mapping of soil organic carbon contents and stocks in Denmark. PLOS ONE, 9, e105519 (2014). Allaire, JJ. and F.Chollet: Keras: R interface to keras. R package (2018).
Literature cited 2: Bochet E,: the fate of seeds in the soil: A review of the influence of overland flow on seed removal and its consequences for the vegetation of arid and semiarid patchy ecosystems. Soil, 1, 131-146 (2015). Bouasria, A., Y. Bouslihim, S. Gupta, R. Taghizadeh-Mehrjardi, and T. Hengl: Predictive performance of machine learning model with varying sampling designs, sample sizes, and spatial extents. Ecol. Inform., 78, 102294 (2023)

ID: 66145
Title: Weather based prediction model for rice yellow stem borer, (Scirpophaga incertulas Walker) under changing climate scenarios in Cauvery delta zone, Tamil Nadu
Author: P. Anandhi , G. Leena , P.S. Ganapati , S. Elamathi , K. Subrahmaniyan , V. Ambethgar and S. Venugopal
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 95-102 (2025)
Subject: Weather based prediction model for rice yellow stem borer, (Scirpophaga incertulas Walker) under changing climate scenarios in Cauvery delta zone, Tamil Nadu
Keywords: ARIMAX, Oryza sativa, Rice yellow stem borer, Scirpophaga incertulas, Weather variables
Abstract: The insect pest complex of rice (Oryza sativa) crop has experienced a significant transformation post Green Revolution. The moderate to severe occurrence of stemborer, leaf folder, planthopper, gall midge and other pests is the cause for losses in rice crop. Seasons, years, and agro-climatic zones change in the degree of insect pest damage because of variations in biotic and atmospheric variables. Yellow Stem Borer (YSB) Scirpophaga incertulas Walker (Crambidae, Lepidoptera) has become one of the most significant rice pests in the nation and cause production losses of up to70% for late - planted rice fields and 20% for early planted rice crops (Prasannakumar et al., 2015). For forty days, the YSB larva develops inside the rice stem, pupates inside the stem in a white silken cocoon, and eventually matures into an adult moth. During vegetative stage, the YSB larvae make boreholes near the plant base and at reproductive stage, they produce white ears resulting in yield loss (Jyostna et al., 2022). Pest and diseases cause drastic yield loss and productivity (Adhikari et al.,2021andPrasannakumar etal.,2015)
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adhikari, B., P. Bhusal, K. Kafle and K.C. Rajkumar: Effects of different weather parameters on insect pest incidence in paddy in Sundarbazar Lamjung. Tropi. Agroecosys., 2, 82-86 (2021). Arya, P., R.K. Paul, A. Kumar, K.N. Singh, N. Sivaramne and P. Chaudhary: Predicting pest population using weather variables an ARIMAX time series framework. Int. J. Agricult. Stat. Sci., 11, 381- 386 (2015).
Literature cited 2: Aswathi, V. S. and M.R. Duraisamy: Comparison of prediction accuracy of multiple linear regression, ARIMA and ARIMAX model for pest incidence of cotton with weather factors. Madras Agric. J., 105, 313-316 (2018). Bale, J.S., G.J. Masters, I.D. Hodkinson, C. Awmack, T.M. Bezemer, V.K. Brown and J.B. Whittaker: Herbivory in global climate change research: Direct effects of rising temperature on insect herbivores. Glob. Change Biol., 8, 1–16 (2002)

ID: 66144
Title: Length-weight relationship, relative condition factor and reproductive parameters of Mystus cavasius (Hamilton, 1822) in the river Ganga
Author: S.K. Ahirwal , A.K. Jaiswar , S. Bhushan , H.S. Mogalekar , T. Kumar , J. Singh and K. Sharma
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 58-65 (2025)
Subject: Length-weight relationship, relative condition factor and reproductive parameters of Mystus cavasius (Hamilton, 1822) in the river Ganga
Keywords: Catfish, Gonadosomatic index, Growth pattern, Mystus cavasius, River Ganga, Spawning season
Abstract: Length-weight relationships (LWRs) have been frequently used to compare populations of similar species from different ecological conditions (Singh et al., 2023), as well as used to obtain data on fish growth, general health, and habitat conditions (Froese, 2006). LWRs parameter of a species depends on the specimen condition, their size at first maturity, feeding ecology and physiology (Torres et al., 2012; Eduardo et al., 2019; Czudaj et al., 2022). It has a wide range of applications in fish stock assessment models to estimate fish stock parameters (Froese, 2006) and the ecosystem modelling approach to obtain a reliable estimate of production over biomass (Christensen and Pauly, 1992; Christensen and Walters, 2004). On the other hand, relative condition factors are used as indicators of fish welfare and the health of fish populations in their habitats and provide information on environmental quality and suitability (Tsoumani et al., 2006; Muchlisin et al., 2010; Prajapati et al., 2022). Knowledge of the reproductive parameters of a species is a central aspect of providing sound scientific advice for fisheries management (Morgan, 2008). It is crucial in rationalizing fish stocks and their sustainable production (Cochrane, 2002).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Alves, D.C. and C.V. Minte-Vera: Scientometric analysis of freshwater fisheries in Brazil: repeating past errors? Rev. Fish Bio. Fisher., 23, 113-126 (2012). Bhatt, V.S.: Studies on the biology of some freshwater fishes. Part VI. Mystus cavasius.Hydrobiologia, 38, 289-302 (1971).
Literature cited 2: Binohlan, C. and R. Froese: Empirical equations for estimating maximum length from length at first maturity. J. Appl. Ichthyol., 25, 611-613 (2009). Cao, L., B. Song, J. Zha, C. Yang, X. Gong, J. Li and W. Wang: Age composition, growth, and reproductive biology of yellow catfish (Peltobagrus fulvidraco, Bagridae) in Ce Lake of Hubei Province, Central China. Environ. Biol. Fishes, 86, 75-88 (2009).

ID: 66143
Title: Seasonal dynamics of Herohalli Lake in North Bangalore, Karnataka, India: A limnological study of water stations and its impact on a vertebrate biological system
Author: M.P. Raj and R.S. Philip
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 47-57 (2025)
Subject: Seasonal dynamics of Herohalli Lake in North Bangalore, Karnataka, India: A limnological study of water stations and its impact on a vertebrate biological system
Keywords: Herohalli Lake, Heartbeat count, Limnology, Zebrafish
Abstract: Bangalore, the capital city of the southern state of Karnataka in India, is known as Silicon Valley and Garden City. However, ongoing urban development has led to significant biodiversity loss, degrading its lakes and natural landscape network. Wetlands, especially lakes, play a significant role in drinking and irrigating water supply, help replenish groundwater, serve as a source for fish culture, and mitigate natural calamities (Gurunathan, 2006). Lakes in Bangalore that were once serene are now facing unequaled challenges due to anthropogenic activities and expeditious urbanization; unplanned disposal of waste and untreated flow of sewage are some of the anthropogenic activities leading to the death of these wetlands and subsequently, biodiversity loss (Birawat et al., 2021). Assessing lake water through a limnological approach has become essential. Analysis of physical, chemical, and biological variables facilitates comprehension of a region's limnological and seasonal landscape (Aqel et al., 2024). Changes in these variables have led to declining water quality, increased waterborne diseases, and biodiversity loss, thereby disrupting the ecosystem’s sustainability (Ramachandra et al., 2018)
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Avinash, G.P., S.K. Raja Namasivayam and R.S. Arvind Bharani: A critical review on occurrence, distribution, environmental impacts, and biodegradation of microplastic. J. Environ. Biol., 44, 655-664 (2023). APHA: Standard Methods for Examination of Water and Wastewater. 23 Edn., APHA, AWWA, WPCF, Washington DC, USA (2017).
Literature cited 2: Aneja, K.R.: Experiments in Microbiology, Plant pathology, Tissue Culture, and Mushroom Production Technology. 4 Edn., New Age International Publications, New Delhi, India (2003). Aqel, H., N. Sannan, A. Al-Hunaiti and R. Fodah: Integrated water quality dynamics in Wadi Hanifah: Physical, chemical, and biological perspectives. PLoS ONE, 19, 1-18 (2024).

ID: 66142
Title: Comparative analysis of amphibian community dynamics in relation to water quality in pond types across two Punjab districts, India
Author: G.S. Sekhon, R.K. Aulakh and T.K. Kler
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 39-46 (2025)
Subject: Comparative analysis of amphibian community dynamics in relation to water quality in pond types across two Punjab districts, India
Keywords: Amphibian community dynamics, Biodiversity indices, Pond management, Water quality
Abstract: Amphibians play crucial roles in ecosystem functioning and are considered sensitive indicators of environmental health due to their permeable skin and habitat dependency (Blaustein et al., 2002; Collins and Storfer 2003). In Punjab, India, where agricultural intensification and urbanization are rapidly altering landscapes, investigating the response of amphibian populations to such changes is particularly pertinent. The impacts of anthropogenic activities such as pesticide runoff and habitat destruction on pond habitats pose significant threats to amphibian populations and overall ecosystem health (Karraker et al., 2008; Richter and Young 2003). Parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and pollutants can directly affect the amphibian physiology, behavior and reproductive success (Hecnar and M'Closkey 1997; Sodhi et al., 2008). For instance, high levels of agricultural runoff can result in eutrophication and increased turbidity, negatively impacting the amphibian breeding sites and larval development (Johnson and Chase 2016; Smith and Schindler 2009)
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Agarwal, S., D. Chakraborty and S. Pandey: Habitat quality and amphibian population dynamics in urban and rural ponds of India. Ecol. Indic., 89, 335-344 (2018). APHA: Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater. th 24 Edn., American Public Health Association, American Water Works Association, Water Environment Federation. Washington DC, USA (2023).
Literature cited 2: Blaustein, A.R. and J.M. Kiesecker: Complexity in conservation: lessons from the global decline of amphibian populations. Ecol. Lett., 5, 597-608 (2002). Brown, J. and K.L. Jones: Effects of intensive land use on amphibian diversity and community structure: A European perspective. Ecol. Appl., 29, e01930 (2019)

ID: 66141
Title: Assessment of genetic diversity in Nelumbo nucifera genotypes
Author: V. Kumar, R. Kumar and M. Rana
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 28-38 (2025)
Subject: Assessment of genetic diversity in Nelumbo nucifera genotypes
Keywords: Correlation coefficient, Diversity, Genotypes, Lotus, Path analysis
Abstract: Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) is a beautiful aquatic flower cultivated for its ornamental value, edible parts and medicinal uses. Lotus fields support a rich biodiversity of aquatic flora and fauna. It transports a large volume of air from the atmosphere to the soil-water through large air sacs present in their petiole and rhizomes which reduce methane emission and helps to mitigate climate change. Flowers are mostly white to pink in colour, with numerous petals, solitary with 10–20 cm in diameter; and seeds have a hard black seed coat. Lotus is highly heterozygous due to out crossing and its genetic diversity can be maintained as long as it is vegetatively propagated through rhizomes (Kubo et al., 2009). Determining genetic diversity within genotypes or populations is crucial in plant breeding initiatives (Prasad et al., 2024). Previous studies on lotus including genetic resource surveys, phenotypic observations, and diversity analyses have mostly concentrated on a limited scale in some parts of China (Fu et al., 2021).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Al-Jibouri, H.A., P.A. Miller and H.F. Robinson: Genotypic and environmental variances in an upland cotton cross of interspecific origin. Agron. J., 50, 633–637 (1958). Burton, G.W. and D.E. De Vane: Estimating heritability in tall fescue (Festuca arundinacea) from replicated clonal material. Agron. J., 45, 478–481 (1953).
Literature cited 2: Dewey, D.R. and K.H. Lu: A correlation and path-coefficient analysis of components of crested wheat grass seed production. Agron. J., 51, 515–518 (1959). Dyulgerova, B. and D. Valcheva: Heritability, variance components and genetic advance of yield and some yield related traits in barley doubled haploid lines. Türk Tarım ve Doğa Bilimleri Dergisi., 1, 614-617 (2014).

ID: 66140
Title: First report on the structural and functional aspects of androconial gland in Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella
Author: M.K. Saini , L. Marwaha , J. Singh and N. Kapahi
Editor: Dr. Sumati Gaumat
Year: 2025
Publisher: Triveni Enterprises
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: Journal of Environmental Biology Vol. 46 (1) Jan 18-27 (2025)
Subject: First report on the structural and functional aspects of androconial gland in Galleria mellonella and Achroia grisella
Keywords: Androconial gland, Achroia grisella,Galleria mellonella, Lepidoptera, Pheromone
Abstract: Chemoreceptive-driven behaviour triggers a sexual response between the signalling organism and the receiver, with amplification occurring through the exchange of multiple sensory signals during mating and courtship. Sexual pheromones, which are species-specific chemical attractants, typically consist of a blend of specific chemical compounds. The facilitation of intraspecific communication is undeniably a crucial event in the evolutionary history of insects, particularly in reproduction communication (Hagstrom et al., 2013). It is regarded as a primary factor contributing to their extensive variety and ecological viability. These volatile airborne chemicals or odours have evolved by sexual selection and have low molecular weight. Within the Lepidoptera family Pyralidae, in G. mellonella and A. grisella (Greenfield, 1981; Topno and Lovleen, 2021; Nikhita Kapahi and Marwaha, 2022; Kapahi et al., 2023) the chemical signalling induced by males facilitates pheromone specificity in pair formation, indicating mood, territorial or sexual signalling, behaviour, and presentation of the conspecific females over the long-distance range (Chapman and Chapman, 1998).
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Barth, R.: Bau und funktion der flugeldrusen einiger mikrolepidopteren untersuchungen an den pyraliden: Aphomia gularis, Galleria mellonella, Plodia interpunctella, Ephestia elutella und E. kuhniella. Z. Wiss. Zool., 150, 1–37 (1937). Birch, M.C., G.M. Poppy and T.C. Baker: Scents and eversible scent structures of male moths. Annu. Rev. Entomol., 35, 25 - 54 (1990).
Literature cited 2: Chang, C.P. and F.K. Hsieh: Morphology and bionomics of Galleria mellonella.Chin. J. Entomol., 12, 121–129 (1992). Chapman, R.F.:The Insects: Structure and Function. 4 Edn., Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, U.K., 788 pages (1998).