ID: 64718
Title: Properties of Wheat straw Fiber Board made using pulverized and Alkali treated straw
Author: B.S.Mamatha,D.Sujatha,D.N. Uday and M.C.Kiran
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 70-75 (2023)
Subject: Properties of Wheat straw Fiber Board made using pulverized and Alkali treated straw
Keywords: Medium density fiber board, Wheat straw, Adhesive, Melamine, Urea formaldehyde
Abstract: Need to source alternative raw materials for panel industry has led to the study of wheat straw for the manufacturing of Medium Density fiber board (MDF). Wheat straw with alkali treatment (0.1 and 0.3%) was studied for the manufacturing of Medium Density Fiber (MDF) board. Characterization of fibers were carried out using fiber analyser. MDF panels were made using 10% and 12% Urea formaldehyde resin (UF) and 10% Melamine urea formaldehyde resin (MUF). Physical and mechanical properties were evaluated as per IS 12406-2003.Study infers that alkali treated fibers has shown improved properties with 12% UF resin bonded MDF boards. The results showed that he physical & mechanical properties MUF resin bonded wheat straw fibre boards meet the requirements of MDF as per IS-12406-2003 standards.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon (2012) Medium Density Fibre Board in India, Ply Reporter (Magazine).
Gardner D.H. and Elder T.J. (1990). Bonding surface activated hardwood flakeboard with phenol formaldehyde resin, Holzforschung, 44: 201-206.
Literature cited 2: Gomez-Bueso J., Westin M., Torgilsson R., Olesen P.O. and Simonson R. (2000). Composites made from acetylated lignocellulosic fibers of different orifin-Part1.Properties of dry-formed fiberboards, Holz Als Roh-Und Werkstoff, 58 (1-2) 9-14.
Han G. P, Umemura K., Zhang M. Honda T. and Kawai S. (2001). Development of high-performance UF-bonded reed and wheat straw medium-density fiberboard, Journal of Wood Science, 47 (5): 350-355.
ID: 64717
Title: Wood Microstructure and identification key of selected species of Poplar (Populus Sp)
Author: Ronak Yadav and Sangeeta Gupta
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 63-69 (2023)
Subject: Wood Microstructure and identification key of selected species of Poplar (Populus Sp)
Keywords: Populus sp., LAWA, Identification key, Inter vessel pits, Disjunctive ray parenchyma
Abstract: The study is based on the examination of eleven wood samples from four species of genus Populus viz. Populus alba L. Internationally acclaimed standard laboratory procedure was followed to make permanent slides. The qualitative and quantitative characteristics were recorded as per the feature list given by International Association of Wood Anatamists (IAWA) for hardwood identification. Photomicrographs were taken from three sections i.e. Transverse section, Tangential and Radial longitudinal sections to study the wood microstructure and recorded the diagnostic features in each taxon. The selected Populus species show both similar and dissimilar qualitative wood anatomical characteristics within and among studied species. The identification key developed from the studied microstructures was used to distinguish the studied species.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Bor N.L. (1958). Manual of Indian forest botany. London, Oxford University Press pp.111-112.
Gamble J.S. (1922). A manual of Indian timbers, Sampson Low and Marston Co. Ltd: London.
Literature cited 2: Kasania A., Bisht D., Gupta S. (2020). Wood microstructural Study of Selected Exotic Tree Species of Forest Research Institute, Dehradun, Indian Forester, 146 (6): 544-553.
Katiyar S.R. (2011). Populus ciliata is an industrial tree in Uttarakhand. Journal of Non-timber Forest Products, 18 (4): 277-280.
ID: 64716
Title: Ethno-medicinal utilization of Atropa acuminata in district Bandipora of J& K India
Author: Mohammed Kaif, Amerjeet Singh, Jauhar Rafeeq, Ummar Atta,Mir Adil Aasif Ali Gatoo,A.H.Mughal, S.A. Gangoo and Bilal Ahmad Bhat
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 60-62 (2023)
Subject: Ethno-medicinal utilization of Atropa acuminata in district Bandipora of J& K India
Keywords: Atropa acuminata, Bandipora, Diseases, Treatment, Stakeholders
Abstract: The present study was conducted to investigate the ethno-medicinal uses of Atropa acuminata in district Bandipora of J& K during the year 2018-2019.Ethnomedicinal data was collected using purposive sampling to reach target population. A total of 15 ailments were found to be treated by Atropa acuminata. The ethno medicinal survey confirmed that different parts (roots, leaves, berries and whole plant) of investigating plant have medicinal values and is used for treatment of different diseases under traditional system of medicine. Studies conducted also revealed that 47% of the roots followed by 28% of whole plant, 20% of leaves, and 5% of berries were used for treatment of different diseases under ethno medicines.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Baba I.A., Dubey S., Alia A. Saxena R.C. Itoo A.A. and Powar K. (2012) .Ethnobotanical survey of medicinal plants used by the people of district Ganderbal, Jammu and Kashmir, Research Journal of Pharmaceutical, Biological and Chemical Sciences, 3(2): 549-556.
Bhat F.Mahajan D.M., Sayyed M.R.G. and Bhat A. (2013). Ethno-medicinal survey of North Kashmir Himalaya-a case study of Lolab valley (J&K), India. Ecology, Environment and Conservation, 20 (1): 59-71.
Literature cited 2: Singh J., Singh J., Kumar N.,Jishtu V., Sharma S. and Dhupper R. (2017). Ethno-medicinal plants used by indigenous people of Kanda range, chopal forest division, Himachal Pradesh, World Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7(1): 697-710.
Sinha S.Murugesan T., Maiti K., Gayen J.R. Pal B., Pal M. and Saha B.P. (2001). Antibacterial activity of Bergenia ciliata rhizome. Fitoterapia.
ID: 64715
Title: Genetic divergence study for yield and yield contributing traits among clones of Eucalyptus tereticornis
Author: Hareram Sahoo, Aditya Kumar, Yogeshwar Mishra, Devraj Lenka,Tanmay Lalitendu Mohanty Prasannajit Mishra and Asit Prasad Dash
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 52-59 (2023)
Subject: Genetic divergence study for yield and yield contributing traits among clones of Eucalyptus tereticornis
Keywords: Eucalyptus,GFenetic diversity,Heritability, Genetic advance, D2 analysis
Abstract: Different clones of Eucalyptus tereticornis were studied for genetic divergence and productivity. The analysis of variance revealed significant variations among eight clones for the studied nine morphological traits. The biomass (1124.17 g), plant height (247.9 cm) and collar diameter (23.25 mm). The mean sum of square value also revealed significant differences among the clones. The GCV value, heritability in a broad sense, and genetic advance as per cent of mean was found highest for dry biomass followed by number of leaves and plant height so, selection of genotypes based on these traits will be rewarding. The genetic divergence study revealed that the studied clones were genetically divergent and grouped into three clusters by using Tocher's method. The cluster mean value of cluster 3 was found maximum for all the maximum inter-cluster distance was found between cluster III and cluster II. So, the transgressive segregants and heterotic hybrids can be produced through the hybridization between clone ITC 136 and clone ITC 288.The intra-cluster distance of cluster I was found very high so, selection can be made within the clones grouped together for producing productive clones. Based on the field performance of different clones it can be concluded that clones ITC 526 and ITC 136 are productive and can be utilized for establishing commercial plantation in the study region.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Baldaniya J.D., Kale B.H., Mungra K.S., Patel H.N., Lad M.D. and Chauhan D.A. (2018) .D2 analysis for yield and quality traits in pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L) Millsp). International Journal of Chemical Studies, 6(5): 2723-2715.
Behera L.K., Jha S.K., Gunaga R.P., Nayak D., Tandel M.B. and Jadeja D.B. (2017). Genetic variability and correlation study for growth characters among clones of Eucalyptus, International Journal of Chemical Studies, 5(6): 763-765.
Literature cited 2: Burton G.N. and Devane E.M. (1953) .Estimating heritability in Fall Fescue (Festuca arundinacea L) from replicated clonal materials, Agronomy Journal,45:478-481.http://dx.doi.org/10.2134/agronj1953.00021962004500100005x.
Burton G.W. (1952). Quantitative inheritance in grass. Proc. Six International Grassland Congress, Pennsyslvania State College, 7: 277-283.
ID: 64714
Title: Litter decomposition dynamics of Quercus secarpifolia forest in northwest Himalaya
Author: Vijender Pal Panwar
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 44-51 (2023)
Subject: Litter decomposition dynamics of Quercus secarpifolia forest in northwest Himalaya
Keywords: Decomposition constant, Retum, Release, Accumulation, Kharshu oak
Abstract: Litter production and decomposition are fundamental ecosystem processes and plays a key role in nutrient cycling. This study aims to determine the litter decomposition rate and macro nutrient (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) in decomposed litter of Quercus semecarpifolia. Maximum weight loss due to decomposition was recorded from June to October, and climatic variables significantly affected decomposition. During decomposition nitrogen (1.37-1.89) and phosphorus (0.12-0.14) were increased and gradual decrease in potassium (0.40-0.24), calcium (0.71-0.46) and magnesium (0.22-0.17) concentration was observed. Most of the nutrients were lost during the rainy months (June-September). Total nutrient return (236.06 kg ha-1) was observed from the decomposing litter in the order of N (101.09) >Ca (78.74)>K (29.94)>Mg (17.36) >P (8.93) through the input from different components in the order of leaves >twigs>miscellaneous litter>reproductive litter>bark. Maximum returned was observed from May to July. Out of the total nutrients returned through leaf litter, 75% were released through decomposition, and 25% were accumulated on the forest floor.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Almagro M. and Martinez -Mena M. (2012). Exploring short-term leaf litter decomposition dynamics in a Mediterranean ecosystem: decomposition on litter type and site conditions. Plant Soil, 358:323-335.
Berg B. (2000). Litter decomposition and organic matter turnover in northern forest soils. Forest Ecology and Management, 133: 13-22.
Literature cited 2: Berg B. and Lousier J.D. (2000). Litter decomposition and organic matter turnover in northern forest soils. Forest Ecology and Management, 133 (1-2): 13-22.
Chakravarty S. Rai P. Pala N.A. and Shukla G. (2020). Litter production and decomposition in tropical forest. In Handbook of Research on the Conservation and Restoration of Tropical Dry Forests IGI Global, pp.193-212.
ID: 64713
Title: A simple method for the light microscopic wood anatomical study of Indian Troical Trees, without using microtome
Author: M.Vigi George and N.Hari
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 35-43 (2023)
Subject: A simple method for the light microscopic wood anatomical study of Indian Troical Trees, without using microtome
Keywords: Harpulla arborea, Nephelium ippaceum,Sapindus trifoliatus, secondary xylem data
Abstract: The most accepted method for preparing the wood anatomical data is the microtome sections using wood samples from living or xylarium specimens. Whereas the sectioning process of these wood samples depends on the availability of good quality microtome and in the case of the xylarium samples, the age and source of samples are often found to be missing and softening procedures for the dry specimens remain challenging. Based on two strategies, here authors undertook the possibility of a simplified methodology for the wood anatomical study of tropical trees, using fresh samples without depending on a microtome. One was that stem samples were sufficient to measure the qualitive wood anatomical details since it is tomorrow's heartwood, except color, size, and cell content, everything else is the same as found in the heartwood of a large stem. So, hand-made sections of fresh stem samples were selected and following with simple methodology of boiling and bleaching, the qualitative anatomical characters were analyzed. The second was to measure the quantitative wood anatomical data from the macerated sapwood samples. The wood anatomical study of opting the method of collecting the qualitative data from stem sections and quantitative measurements from sapwood samples of three tropical tree species-Harpullia arborea (Blanco) Radlk., Nephelium lappaceum L. and Sapindus trifoliatus L. was found to be comparable with the existing wood anatomical details of the taxa.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adema F., Leenhouts P.W. and van Welzen P.C. (1994). Flora Malesiana. Series I, Spermatophyta, Volume 11, Part 3: Sapindaceae, Rijksherbarium.
Angyalossy V., Pace M.R., Evert R.F. Marcati C.R., Oskolski A.A., Terrazas T., Kotina E., Lens F.,Mazzoni-Viveiros S.C., Angeles G.,Machado S.TR., Crivellaro A., Rao K.S., Junikka L., Nikolaeva N. and Baas P. (2016). IAWA List of Microscopic Bank Features.IAWA J. 37: 517-615.https://doi.org/10.1163/22941932-20160151.
Literature cited 2: Angyalossy V., Pace M.R., Marcati C.R. and Evert R.F. (2020). Phloem development, growth markers, and sieve-tube longevity in two Neotropical trees. IAWA J. 42: 31-49. https://doi.org/10.1163/22941932-bja10045.
BaasP.(1982). Systematic, phylogentic, and ecological wood anatomy-History and perspectives in Wood anatomy. Forestry Sciences, Vol 1mists. Springer, Dordrecht, Dordrecht, pp.23-58. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-94-017-2418-0_2.
ID: 64712
Title: Plant diversity of Singanallur Lake-An urban wetland in coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Author: C.Kunhinannana,R.Prasanna,R.Balaji,R.Thamilarasi, Vinny R. Peter and L. Joseph Reginald
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 23-34 (2023)
Subject: Plant diversity of Singanallur Lake-An urban wetland in coimbatore, Tamil Nadu
Keywords: Plant diversity, Singanallur, Wetland ecosystem, Vegetation analysis
Abstract: The present study reports the plant diversity in and around the Singanallur Lake which is one of the iconic water bodies of Coimbatore. As a result of extensive field work for the period of 15 months at different season total of 453 plant species belonging to 304 genera and 84 families were enumerated including planted ones around the lake. Habit wise analysis of floor indicated the dominance of herbaceous species in the vegetation around the lake with 193 species followed by trees with 144 species,56 species of shrubs,55 climbers and 5 lianas. Herbarium specimens were prepared for all the species and deposited at FRC Herbarium of IFGTB, Coimbatore. The phytodiversity thus recorded in a wetland ecosystem within the urban limit has gained attention among the general public in Coimbatore city. The drastic urbanization impacted the species diversity of all other lakes except the Singanallur Lake.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Momtaz H., Alam A.K.M.R. and Hoque S. (2010) A comparative study of phytoplankton diversity in relation to water quality or migratory birds visiting and non-visiting wetlands of Savar Bangladesh Journal of Environment al Research,8: 31-38.
Sujana K.A. and Sivaperuman C. (2008). Preliminary studies on flora Kole wetlands, Thrissur, Kerala. Indian Forester 134 (8): 1079-1086.
Literature cited 2: Stewart Jr. R.E. (1996).Wetlands as bird habitat. National Water Summary on wetland Resources, United States Geological Surveys, Water-Supply Paper, 2425.
ID: 64711
Title: Willingness of the forest fringe dwellers for conservation of Laokhowa and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries in Northeast India
Author: KulenChandra Das and Mrinal Kanti Dutta
Editor: R.P.Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 13-22 (2023)
Subject: Willingness of the forest fringe dwellers for conservation of Laokhowa and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries in Northeast India
Keywords: Fringe dwellers, Floral, Faunal, Diversity, Anthropogenic pressure, Corridor
Abstract: The present study is an attempt to investigate forest fringe dwellers' willingness to pay (WTP) for conservation of degraded forests taking the case of Laokhow and Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuaries of Assam in Northeast India. Once good repositories of floral and faunal diversity the sanctuaries suffered huge setback during the eighties of the last century and presently grappling for survive due to huge anthropogenic pressures. Therefore, a contingent Valuation Method has been employed to elicit response of the fringe dwellers for restoration and conservation of the said sanctuaries. The mean WTP of the fringe dwellers is found to be INR 352with a maximum of INR 5000.The Tobit results reveal that, variables such as family size, total household income, cattle unit and forest dependency influence significantly the WTP decision of the fringe dwellers. However, the variables, namely family size, total household income and cattle unit have positive influence, the variable, forest dependency has negative influence on WTP decision of the fringe dwellers.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Adekune M.F. (2005). Economic Valuation of forest plants used in traditional treatment of Guinea worm infection in Ogun state, Nigeria,Ph D. thesis, Department of Forestry and wildlife Management, University of Agriculture, Abekuta, Nigeria (unpublished).
Bora C.K. (2004). Management Plan of Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary. Nagaon Wildlife Division, Department of Environment and Forest, Government of Assam, Volume 1.
Literature cited 2: Borthakur U., Barman R.D. Das C., Basumatary A., Talukdar A, Ahmed F., Talukdar B.K. and Bharali R. (2011). Non-invasive genetic monitoring of tiger (Panthera tigris tigris) population of Orang National Park in the Brahmaputra floodplain, Assam, India. European Journal of Wildlife Resources, 57, 603-613.
Bowman T., Thompson J. and Colletti J. (2009). Valuing of open space and conservation features in residential subdivisions. Journal of Environment Management, 90:321-330.
ID: 64710
Title: Soil Organic carbon status on macronutrient
Author: Rodda Chandana Devi and D.K. Das
Editor: S.K.Satheesh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 7-12 (20230
Subject: Soil Organic carbon status on macronutrient
Keywords: Bombax ceiba,Available macro nutrients, Tree densities, Soil organic carbon
Abstract: A field experiment was conducted to examine the effect of different spacings, i.e., 5x2 m, 5x4 m and 5x5 m of six-year-old Bombax ceiba L. Based agri-silvicultural system on soil organic carbon (SOC) stock and soil physico-chemical properties. The bulk density (BD), pH and electrical conductivity (EC) were significantly lower, while the SOC and soil available N1P2O5 and K2O were significantly higher under the agri-silvicultural systems as compared to open plots without trees. Significantly higher amounts as compared to open plots without trees. Significantly higher amounts of available macronutrients were also observed in surface soil (0-15 cm) than in subsurface (15-30cm). There was 2.23% reduction in soil pH in the highest density plantation (5x2 m) followed by 1.53 (5x3 m) irrespective of the soil depth. Available N1P2O5 and K2O were highest density plantation (5x2 m spacing) and increased by 15.0, 38.3 and 20.1% in 0-15 cm soil depth, respectively. The total SOC storage from 0-30 cm soil depth in plantations of different densities increased by 32.9% in 5x5 m and 71.8% in 5x2 m and 5x3m) of B.ceiba proved to be the best for improving SOC and soil available macronutrients.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Anon (1985) .The Wealth of India, A dictionary of Indi raw material, Vol.1, CSIR: New Delhi, pp.20-23.
Das A, Patel D.P., Munda G.C. and Ghosh P.K. (2010). Effect of organic and in organic sources of nutrients of yield, nutrient uptake and soil fertility of maize (Zea mays) -mustard (Brassica campestris) cropping system. Indian J. Agric.Sci,80(1) :85-88
Literature cited 2: Devi S., Bhardwaj K.K. Dahiya G., Sharma M.K. Verm A.K. and Louhar G (2020) .Effect of agri-silvi-horticultural system on soil chemical properties and available nutrients at different depths in Haryana. Range Mgmt. & Agroforestry, 41(2): 267-275.
Dhillon R.S., Beniwal R.S., Bangarwa K.S., Bhardwaj K.K., Handa A.K., Kumari S., Chavan S.B., Rizvi, R.H.,Sirohi, C. and Sheokand R.N. (2017). Effect of spacing on crop yield and soil nutrient status under poplar-based agroforestry system in semi-arid ecosystem. Indian .J. of Agroforestry, 19 (1): 42-47.
ID: 64709
Title: Sacred Grove as a tribal ethics of plant resource Management
Author: Atanu Nayak,Ram Kumar Bhakat and Prasanta Kumar Pandit
Editor: R.P. Singh
Year: 2023
Publisher: Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education.
Source: ENVIS, CES & EWRG, CES
Reference: The Indian Forester Vol. 149 (1) Pg No. 1-6 (2023)
Subject: Sacred Grove as a tribal ethics of plant resource Management
Keywords: Biodiversity, Conservation, Sacred grove, Bankura district
Abstract: Biodiversity conservation and sustainable use of natural resources are the widely discussed topics of this century. Sacred groves are conserved tree groves/clusters often dedicated to certain local deities or spirits. This paper highlights the account of conserved plant diversity of 'Hausibaid Paharsini' sacred grove situated in Chhatna block of Bankura district, West Bengal. This study reveals a total number 274 individuals under 31 species of angiosperms conserved in-situ including 18 medicinally and a few other socio-culturally important plants. Though most of the plant community is herbaceous (47%) but trees have a significant presence (31%). The Simpson's index of diversity (1-D) is calculated as 0.99 with a reciprocal index (1/D) of 77.11. The Shannon diversity index (H) is also worked out (2.98) with an equitability of 0.87. These results show that the grove has ample mount of plant diversity. However, there are many threats to the sacred grove as well and it is found that the invasive alien species (IAS) and erosion of people's traditional ethics are the major ones. In view of this, the sacred groves should be protected as institution of traditional Indian culture and as adobe of local biodiversity.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Basu R. (2009) .Biodiversity and ethnobotany of sacred groves in Bankura district, West Bengal. Indian Forester, 135(5) :765-778.
Bhakat R.K. (2003) .Socio-religious and ecological perspective of a sacred grove from Midnapore district. Science and Culture, 69: 371-374.
Literature cited 2: Bhakat R.K. (2009) .Chilkigarh Kanak Durga Sacred Gove, West Bengal. Current Science, 96:185.
Bhakat R. K and Pandit P.K. (2007). Peoples initiative protects a Sacred grove. Indian Forester, 132 (5): 37-45.
ID: 64708
Title: Agricultural price forecasting using NARX model for soybean oil
Author: Ronit Jaiswal, Girish K. Jha, Rajeev Ranjan Kumar and Achal Lama
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 (1) 79-84 (2023)
Subject: Agricultural price forecasting using NARX model for soybean oil
Keywords: Artificial neural networks, mean absolute scaled error, NARX, price forecasting, soybean oil.
Abstract: The non-linear, non-stationary and complicated nature
of agricultural price series makes their accurate forecasting extremely challenging. In comparison to standard
statistical methods, artificial neural networks (ANN)
have demonstrated promising results for predicting such
series. However, the incorporation of auxiliary information can improve prediction accuracy if it is closely
linked to the target series. A dynamical neural architecture called a non-linear autoregressive model with
exogenous input (NARX) carefully makes use of the auxiliary information to construct a data-dependent non-linear
forecasting model. The study explores the performance
of NARX model for the real price series of soybean oil
(soybean) using soybean (soybean oil) price as exogenous
inputs. NARX models outperform ARIMA, ARIMAX
and ANN models in terms of RMSE, MAPE, MASE and
directional statistics as evaluation criteria. Further, the
Diebold-Mariano test confirms a significant improvement
in its predictive accuracy.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Wang, J., Wang, Z., Li, X. and Zhou, H., Artificial bee colony-based combination approach to forecasting agricultural commodity.
prices. Int. J. Forecast., 2022, 38, 21–34.
Wang, L., Feng, J., Sui, X., Chu, X. and Mu, W., Agricultural product price forecasting methods: research advances and trend. Br.
Food J., 2020, 122(7), 2121–2138.
Literature cited 2: Box, G. E. P., Reinsel, G. C., Jenkins, M. and Ljung, G. M., Time
Series Analysis: Forecasting and Control, Wiley, Hoboken, 2015,
5th edn.
Weron, R., Electricity price forecasting: a review of the state-of-the-art with a look into the future. Int. J. Forecast., 2014, 30, 1030–10
ID: 64707
Title: Understanding the importance of food festivals: the case of Mamani, the ethnic food festival of Ladakh, India
Author: Anwar Hussain, Nazir Hussain and Shabber Hussain
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 (1) 73-78 (2023)
Subject: Understanding the importance of food festivals: the case of Mamani, the ethnic food festival of Ladakh, India
Keywords: Ethnic food festival, fating, Mamani, tsabskhur.
Abstract: The present study aims to give a comprehensive picture
of Mamani, the sole ethnic food festival of Ladakh, India.
A total of 40 people, selected at random, were involved
in the interviews and discussions after receiving their
prior consent. The annual Mamani festival promotes
the preparation and consumption of traditional Ladakhi
foods. It indicates the end of the harsher part of the
winter season and is also considered a tribune for showcasing the communal and social harmony of the region.
This festival will boost winter tourism in Ladakh. It
will also be a helpful tool in the introduction of local foods
at Anganwadi centres and schools. In light of modernization, this time-tradition that has started to fade needs
to be revived on priority
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Humbert-Droz, B. and Dawa, S., Biodiversity of Ladakh: Strategy
and Action Plan, Sampark, New Delhi, 2004.
Hussain, A., Ahmad, S. R. and Kanwar, M. S., Characterization of
Ladakhi churpe enriched with apricot and spinach. Indian J. Dairy
Sci., 2022, 75(3), 215–224.
Literature cited 2: Khan, K. S., Mamani. In Qadim Ladakh-tarikh-wa-tamaddun, Kacho
Publishers, Leh Ladakh, 1987, pp. 599–600.
Shakspo, N. T., The significance of Kuksho in the cultural history
of Ladakh. In Proceedings of the Fourth and Fifth International
Colloquia on Ladakh, School of Oriental and African Studies, University of London, 1995
ID: 64706
Title: Is habitat suitability sex-specific? A study of the Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica maxima) in the Western Ghats of India
Author: K. Mohan , Joseph J. Erinjery , Arjun Kannan , Sidharth Srinivasan and Mewa Singh
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 (1) 66-72 (2023)
Subject: Is habitat suitability sex-specific? A study of the Indian Giant Squirrel (Ratufa indica maxima) in the Western Ghats of India
Keywords: Conservation measures, distribution modelling, habitat loss, Ratufa indica maxima, sex-specific dispersal.
Abstract: Habitat suitability difference between sexes results in
sex-specific dispersal. Although this behaviour is one
of the key factors in understanding population dynamics,
there are limited studies to evaluate it in arboreal species.
We studied the distribution of the Indian Giant Squirrel (IGS; Ratufa indica maxima) from a sex perspective.
We also evaluated potentiallly suitable habitat types for
the species in the Nelliyampathy Reserve Forest, Western
Ghats, Kerala, India. We used the sweep survey method
to record the distribution pattern of squirrels and analysed the influence of climatic layers and other variables
on the distribution using MaxEnt. The study revealed
that there was a difference between the sexes in habitat
selection. Males preferred more land-use types than
females, which were restricted to only certain land-use
types. Some of the major factors that determined the
distribution of species were distance from urban settlement (50.1%), distance from shade plantation (23.2%),
distance from rocky outcrop (9.2%), minimum temperature of the coldest month (9%) and precipitation of the
wettest quarter (8.5%). The final MaxEnt model output
predicted 49.07% suitable habitat for IGS, of which
45.47% and 34.42% were suitable for males and females respectively, with an overlap of 30.82% between
the sexes. We suggest that it would be important to include a sex perspective in species habitat suitability
studies in order to gain insights into sex-related habitat
specificity and its role in dispersal.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Baguette, M., Benton, T. G. and Bullock, J. M., Dispersal Ecology
and Evolution, Oxford University Press, Oxford, UK, 2012.
Trochet, A. et al., Evolution of sex-biased dispersal. Q. Rev. Biol.,
2016, 91, 297–320.
Literature cited 2: Martínez-Pérez, S., Galante, E. and Micó, E., Sex specificity of
dispersal behaviour and flight morphology varies among tree hollow beetle species. Mov. Ecol., 2022, 10, 1–12.
Greenwood, P. J., Mating systems, philopatry and dispersal in birds
and mammals. Anim. Behav., 1980, 28, 1140–1162
ID: 64705
Title: Individual-level discrimination in song characteristics of white-rumped shama, Copsychus malabaricus
Author: Anil Kumar, Himanshu and Prakhar Rawal
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 (1) 59-65 (2023)
Subject: Individual-level discrimination in song characteristics of white-rumped shama, Copsychus malabaricus
Keywords: Bioacoustic analysis, Copsychus malabaricus, discriminate function analysis, principal component analysis, song distinctness.
Abstract: Passerines exhibit considerable variations in song characteristics, with crucial ecological, behavioural and conservation implications. We documented the individual
variations and level of distinctness in the song characteristics of white-rumped shama, Copsychus malabaricus.
Bioacoustic analysis revealed that songs were composed
of repeated strophes (2–5 types per individual) with
occasional whistles/trills or orphan syllables, made up
of 3–13 elements, with dissimilar structures. Data
analysis using 373 strophes from 22 males showed that
all 8 variables (minimum, maximum, dominant and range
of frequency, strophe duration, song rate, number of elements per strophe and type of element per strophe) differed significantly (P < 0.001). Song variations were higher
among individuals compared to within individuals. The
principal component analysis explained 56.87% variance.
Discriminant function analysis exhibited 69.41% cumulative variance with 40.37% classification accuracy. The
present study may be useful for further research on
some other attributes of a song such as repertoire size,
microstructure and seasonal/diurnal variations
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Linhart, P. and Šálek, M., The assessment of biases in the acoustic
discrimination of individuals. PLoS ONE, 2017, 12, e0177206;
https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0177206
Ranjard, L., Withers, S. J., Brunton, D. H., Parsons, S. and Ross, H.
A., Geographic patterns of song variation reveal timing of song acquisition in wild avian population. Behav. Ecol., 2017, 28, 1085–1092
Literature cited 2: Thompson, M. J., Pearse, K. A. and Foote, J. R., Seasonal and diel
plasticity of song type use in individual ovenbirds (Seiurus aurocapilla). Ethology, 2020, 126, 824–838.
Chen, G., Xia, C. and Zhang, Y., Individual identification of birds
with complex songs: the case of green-backed flycatchers Ficedula
elisae. Behav. Process., 2020, 173, 104063
ID: 64704
Title: Sublethal effects of botanicals on the growth and development of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Author: J. K. Pavana, Sharanabasappa S. Deshmukh, H. B. Mallikarjuna, C. M. Kalleshwaraswamy , T. Basavaraj Naik and David Mota-Sanchez
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 (1) 52-58 (2023)
Subject: Sublethal effects of botanicals on the growth and development of fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Keywords: Biological parameters, botanicals, nutritional indices, Spodoptera frugiperda, sublethal effects.
Abstract: The present study aimed to ascertain the sublethal effects
of azadirachtin 1 EC, anosom 1 EC, derisom 2 EC and
NSKE 5% on biological parameters and nutritional
indices of Spodoptera frugiperda. The longest larval and
pupal lengths were observed in all the treatments involving botanicals, which also significantly decreased adult
longevity, fecundity and egg hatchability. Regarding
nutritional indices, larvae treated with anosom recorded
the least approximate digestibility index, efficiency of
conversion of digested food and efficiency of conversion
of ingested food of 64.7%, 13.2% and 8.4% respectively.
Additionally, botanicals increased the percentage of
defective and malformed adults. Thus, our findings suggest that these botanicals restrain the pests from causing
damage and impede their further generations.
Location: T E 15 New Biology building
Literature cited 1: Montezano, D. G. et al., Host plants of Spodoptera frugiperda
(Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the Americas. Afr. Entomol., 2018, 26,
286–300.
Early, R., Gonzalez-Moreno, P., Murphy, S. T. and Day, R., Forecasting the global extent of invasion of the cereal pest Spodoptera
frugiperda, the fall armyworm. NeoBiota, 2018, 40, 25–50.
Literature cited 2: Nagoshi, R. N., Meagher, R. L. and Hay‐Roe, M., Inferring the annual migration patterns of fall armyworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
in the United States from mitochondrial haplotypes. Ecol. Evol.,
2012, 2, 1458–1467.
Sharanabasappa, D. et al., First report of the fall armyworm,
Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), an
alien invasive pest on maize in India. Pest Manage. Hortic. Ecosyst.,
2018, 24, 23–29.