Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
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Impact of corbicular pollen trapping frequency on pollen yield and colony growth in Apis mellifera L. colonies in Indian mustard
Get PDFPollen is a nutritionally rich resource collected by bees, providing essential proteins and nutrients required for their growth and development. Effect of varying pollen trapping frequencies on the performance of Apis mellifera L. colonies during the Indian mustard flowering were evaluated with the aim of optimizing pollen collection. Maximum pollen collection was recorded under daily pollen trapping (2931.54 g/colony) followed by alternate-day (1338.46 g/colony), every three days (565.13 g/colony) and weekly trapping (214.42 g/colony). In daily trapped colonies, the honey area expanded by 35.03 % compared to 136.52 % in control colonies. Daily pollen trapping severely hindered brood area expansion, resulting in 19.01 % increase compared to the robust growth in control colonies (62.00 %).Alternate day, every three days and weekly trapping resulted in brood area growth rates of 46.12, 60.76 and 68.56 %, respectively. Regarding pollen store area, daily trapping resulted in significantly smaller increase compared to the control. Hence, pollen trapping provides substantial harvests, whereas excessive trapping, particularly daily collection, adversely affects colony strength, highlighting the need for optimized trapping frequencies to balance beekeeper’s income with colony health
Preliminary checklist of micromycetes on trees and shrubs common in the city of Samarkand
Get PDFThis study provides a comprehensive examination of the diversity and distribution of micromycete fungi colonizing trees and shrubs in Samarkand, one of the oldest and ecologically significant cities in central Uzbekistan. The research documents a total of 132 micromycete species belonging to 61 genera, revealing a rich fungal diversity in the urban green spaces of the region. Of particular importance is the identification of 32 species that are recorded for the first time in the mycobiota of Uzbekistan, including Phyllosticta albizinae, Cercospora muelleriana, Ramularia philadelphi, Colletotrichum aucubae and Erysiphe euonymicola. These findings indicate both the underexplored nature of urban fungal biodiversity in Central Asia and the ecological significance of Samarkand\u27s dendroflora as a host for diverse fungal communities.The most frequently encountered taxa were members of the genera Camarosporium, Phyllosticta, Pseudocercospora, Diplodia, Erysiphe and Melampsora, which are known to include several phytopathogenic and endophytic species. The checklist compiled in this study includes detailed data on fungal species, their associated host plants and observed distribution patterns, contributing to the foundational knowledge necessary for monitoring plant health and managing urban ecosystems. The vegetation of Samarkand is predominantly composed of mesophytic plant species and demonstrates high floristic diversity. Also, planting many non-native trees and shrubs has created complicated relationships between hosts and pathogens, which adds to the variety of micromycete communities. This study revealed the importance of continued fungal biodiversity assessments in urban environments across Central Asia
Inhibitory activity of an ethanolic extract from Azadirachta indica (Neem) on Fusarium sp.
Get PDFThe intensive use of synthetic fungicides for the control of Fusarium has raised concerns regarding environmental impact and pathogen resistance. As a sustainable alternative, plant-derived extracts are gaining attention due to their bioactive properties. The objective of this research was to identify the mineral and phytochemical composition of an ethanolic extract from Azadirachta indica and to evaluate its in vitro fungicidal activity against Fusarium sp. The extract was obtained using ultrasound/microwave-assisted extraction with 70 % ethanol. Phytochemical profiling was conducted through high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), while mineral content was assessed by X-ray fluorescence (XRF). The antifungal effect was evaluated using the poisoned medium technique, with extract concentrations of 0 (control), 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 mL/200 mL of medium. Mycelial growth inhibition and conidia production were recorded. Data were analyzed using ANOVA (analysis of variance) and Tukey’s test (p = 0.05). Potassium was the predominant mineral (4 %) and eight major phytochemicals were identified, including caffeic acid 4-O-glucoside, (+)-catechin, secoisolariciresinol, quercetin 3-O-xylosyl-glucuronide, quercetin 3-O-glucoside, caffeoyl glucose, p-coumaric acid 4-O-glucoside and pcoumaroyl glucose. Extract concentrations between 2 and 5 mL/200 mL reduced mycelial growth by up to 35 %, while doses of 2 and 5 mL/200 mL treatments significantly reduced conidia count to 173500 and 155500, respectively. These results suggest that A. indica extract exhibits fungicidal properties against Fusarium sp., highlighting its potential as a natural alternative to synthetic fungicides
Unveiling the fragrance compounds of Jasminum auriculatum genoytpes through GC-MS and FTIR techniques
Get PDFJasminum auriculatum Vahl, a species valued and commonly cultivated for its fragrant flowers, holds significant cultural and commercial value in India. Tamil Nadu is the leading state cultivating Jasminum spp. for perfumery industries; also holds a niche market for use as loose flowers in garland making and worship. There are three released varieties of J. auriculatum viz., CO.1 Mullai, CO.2 Mullai and Pacha Mullai widely cultivated among the jasmine farmers of Tamil Nadu. Besides the above varieties, from the germplasm collection of TNAU, a promising genotype, Pacha Mullai, has been identified and recognized for its distinctive, green-tinged buds and superior agronomic traits. This genotype will be a promising alternative to the already cultivated Mullai types. Hence this study was conducted to investigate the phytochemical composition and aromatic profile of Pacha Mullai in comparison to CO.1 Mullai using Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). The GC-MS analysis revealed that Pacha Mullai exhibited a higher peak area percentage for several bioactive compounds such as squalene, phytol and β-sitosterol, indicating a richer presence of antioxidant, antimicrobial and fragrance-contributing metabolites. Notably, unique compounds like α-farnesene and phenylethyl alcohol in Pacha Mullai were strongly associated with enhanced aroma and fragrance persistence. FT-IR spectral analysis confirmed the presence of functional groups such as O–H, C–H and C–O, with distinctive peaks in Pacha Mullai indicating additional methyl group vibrations, possibly contributing to its longer shelf life and chemical stability. The distinct metabolite profile and structural attributes affirm that Pacha Mullai not only offers a unique and intense fragrance but also improved post-harvest longevity, making it a superior genotype for commercial cultivation. While CO.1 Mullai retains its relevance for traditional use, Pacha Mullai demonstrates superior phytochemical richness, aromatic complexity and post-harvest potential, supporting its recommendation for commercial cultivation, particularly in the perfumery, cosmetic and floriculture industries
Biofertilizer pellets as a strategy to enhance soil nutrient dynamics and microbial populations in mulberry (Morus indica L.) cultivation
No full textOrganic pelleted fertilizers are vital for enhancing soil health and increasing microbial populations in mulberry (Morus indica L.) cultivation. They supply essential nutrients, improve soil structure, promote microbial activity and contributing to sustainable sericulture. This study evaluated the impact of pelleted biofertilizers on soil quality through a factorial pot experiment in a greenhouse using a randomized complete block design. Treatments included combinations of Orgafol, biofertilizers (Azospirillum, phosphobacteria, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi-AMF) and growth promoters. Soil pH, electrical conductivity (EC), available N, P, K and culturable microbial populations were measured 90 days after planting. Orgafol + Azospirillum + AMF (T10) produced the highest EC (0.62 dS m-1) and the lowest pH (6.48), whereas Orgafol alone maintained the highest pH (6.67). Nitrogen was maximised by Orgafol + naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) + Azospirillum + AMF, phosphorus by Orgafol + phosphobacteria (13.32 kg ha-1) and potassium by Orgafol + NAA + Azospirillum (228.98 kg ha-1). Biofertilizer pellets markedly increased total microbial counts, peaking in Orgafol + NAA + Azospirillum + AMF + phosphobacteria (T9). PCA (principal component analysis)identified two principal components accounting for 73.27 % of the total variance. PC1 was strongly correlated with microbial counts and negatively with pH, while PC2 was associated with EC, phosphorus and potassium levels. Treatments T9 and T10 ranked highest in PC1 and T6 dominated PC2, highlighting their effectiveness in enhancing soil fertility. The study demonstrates that tailored pelleted biofertilizer blends can rapidly improve physicochemical properties and biological activity of mulberry soils, offering a scalable strategy for more sustainable and productive sericulture
A survey on insecticide usage patterns in Jasmine crops in Tamil Nadu, India
No full textJasmine (Jasminum spp.) plays an important cultural and economic role in India, with Tamil Nadu leading its production, contributing over two-thirds of the national output. The insecticide use pattern study explores how jasmine farmers across nine key districts in the state manage pest control, focusing on the types of insecticides they use and where they get their information. Based on field surveys with 170 farmers conducted between 2024-2025, the findings show that most growers (85.93 %) are marginal farmers with less than one hectare of land and 42 % have only a middle school education. Low-volume power sprayers were the most widely used equipment (71.48 %), pointing to a preference for efficient and easy-to-use tools. When it comes to insecticides, broad-spectrum and mixed compound products dominate in the jasmine crop. The most widely used insecticide was Spirotetramat + Imidacloprid SC (29.81 %), especially in Krishnagiri (46.15 %) and Coimbatore (40 %). Commonly used single-compound choices include Alphamethrin 10 % EC (10.60 %) and Imidacloprid 70 % WG (8.66 %). On the other hand, newer, potentially safer alternatives like diamides (1.78 %) and spinosyns (0.62 %) saw very limited use. Most farmers relied on local input dealers for guidance (51.86 %), while trained extension officials were rarely approached (8.14 %). Heavy dependence on familiar chemical solutions and culminating point the need for better outreach, education and access to safer pest management options to support the long-term sustainability of jasmine farming
Molecular guardians: Unveiling chitosan film defense through analytical microscopy
Get PDFIn response to growing environmental concerns about plastic packaging, this study examines biopolymer-based alternatives, focusing on the development and performance of chitosan-based films enhanced with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polyethene glycol (PEG), glycerol and essential oils as eco-friendly packaging solutions. Using the solvent casting method, chitosan films were prepared with incorporated essential oils to enhance their functional characteristics. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful fabrication of the films by identifying functional groups such as -OH, N-H, C=O, C≡N, C-Cl, C-Br and metal-O bonds. SEM analysis revealed smooth surfaces with minimal residues, indicating partial uniformity. Antimicrobial testing revealed that sample S1 exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition, whereas sample S2 demonstrated strong, broad-spectrum activity against Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli at higher concentrations. Antioxidant activity, evaluated using the DPPH assay, revealed that at 10 µL of sample S2, 76.22 % inhibition was achieved and sample S1 showed 75.40 %, with effectiveness declining at higher concentrations. The findings underscore the promise of chitosan-essential oil films as multifunctional packaging materials with both antibacterial and antioxidant properties. In horticultural applications, these biofilms present a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, contributing to improved product quality and extended shelf life during postharvest processes and marketing
Perspectives on nutrient management through different farming practices for sugarcane production
Get PDFIndia ranks second among the world’s leading producers of sugarcane and in recent decades, input usage has more than doubled to meet the growing global demand for bioenergy. This surge has contributed to climate change mitigation and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. However, the long-term sustainability of sugarcane production is increasingly uncertain due to the adverse environmental impacts of intensive input use and non-optimized production methods. As the crop\u27s potential for ethanol and green energy gains prominence, it is imperative to simultaneously enhance environmental performance. Nutrient depletion in plant crops often results in yield decline in subsequent ratoons, leading to reduced productivity and economic viability. Sustainable sugarcane production can be achieved by adopting natural and organic farming systems that promote resource conservation and minimize ecological damage. Organic nutrient management offers a viable alternative to maintain soil fertility, reduce input dependency and improve produce quality by avoiding harmful residues. In this context, the adoption of optimal nutrient management practices through natural and organic system has emerged as a research priority for ensuring long-term sustainability. Organic farming systems have attracted increased interest and can address some of the problems faced by humans as well as the agriculture sector. These systems not only contribute to environmental protection and the conservation of non-renewable resources but also address concerns related to food quality, ecosystem balance and farm profitability
Spectral influence on secondary metabolites in Jasminum sambac CO. 1 under red and far-red light
Get PDFLight quality plays a pivotal role in plant development and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolite. Jasminum sambac is a medicinally valuable plant known for its diverse phytochemicals with pharmacological significance. This study investigated the impact of red (600-700 nm) and far-red (700-750 nm) light treatments on the phytochemical profile of J. sambac CO. 1 using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Plants subjected to 80 % red and 20 % far-red light exhibited significant metabolic shifts compared to untreated controls, with enhanced accumulation of bioactive compounds such as 12-oleanen-3-yl acetate, cis-vaccenic acid and 9,19-cyclolanost-24-en-3-ol, eachassociated with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant and anticancer properties. The findings highlight the role of light in modulating secondary metabolites, offering insights into optimized cultivation strategies for pharmaceutical and aromatic applications. This study underscores the potential of spectral light manipulation to enhance medicinal compound biosynthesis in J. sambac CO. 1
Genotype × environment interaction and phenotypic stability analysis in niger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass) breeding lines using Eberhart-Russell and AMMI models
Get PDFNiger (Guizotia abyssinica (L.f.) Cass), an important oilseed crop primarily grown in marginal regions of India, faces significant challenges in production due to environmental fluctuations and a limited genetic base. This study analysed 42 niger genotypes, including two checks, across three sowing settings using the Eberhart-Russell and AMMI (additive main effects and multiplicative interaction) models to measure genotype × environment interaction (GEI) and phenotypic stability. The field experiments were conducted in a randomized block design during the 2021 and 2022 kharif seasons at the zonal agricultural research station, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh. The analysis of variance demonstrated remarkably significant differences across genotypes, environments and GEI for important agronomic and quality factors. The Eberhart-Russell model revealed genotypes such as JCN-1 and JCN-27 as highly stable and extensively adaptable, based on the regression coefficient (bi = 1) and minimal deviation from regression (σ²di). Genotypes including JCN -3 and JCN-11 revealed great responsiveness to favorable situations, whereas JCN-9 and JCN-20 showed specific adaptability to stressprone environments. AMMI1 biplot indicated high-yielding genotypes like JCN-1 and JCN-16, whereas AMMI2 identified JCN-15, JCN-30 and JCN-31 as widely adapted and stable. Genotypes JCN-20 and JCN-28 were particularly adapted to favorable surroundings, whereas JCN-3 and JCN-21 suited marginal environments. The merging of both stability models proved useful in finding genotypes with extensive and specific adaptation. These results give useful insights for breeders attempting to increase yield stability and adaptation in niger under varied agro-ecological situations