Horizon e-Publishing Group (HePG): E-Journals
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Market analysis on insecticide usage patterns for vegetable crops in Krishnagiri district in Tamil Nadu
Get PDFThis study examines insecticide usage patterns among vegetable farmers in the Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu, reflecting the growing importance of insecticides in safeguarding crop health amidst increasing pest pressures. The global insecticide market is expanding rapidly, with India being the fourth-largest producer of agrochemicals and a significant exporter. Insecticides are essential for controlling pests such as thrips, whiteflies and various caterpillars, which can cause substantial yield losses. Using a stratified simple random sampling method, data were collected from 300 farmers across 25 villages in Hosur tehsil between May 2024 and June 2024. The research assessed socio-economic profiles, insecticide usage patterns and the sources of information for purchase decisions. Findings reveal that local agricultural dealers are the primary source of information, with a notable preference among farmers for brands such as BASF and IIL. Most farmers reported using insecticides primarily during the Kharif season, suggesting seasonal dependency. The study also highlights a tendency among farmers to favour specific brands over extended periods, reflecting brand loyalty and trust in local suppliers. Overall, the results provide valuable insights into the practices and challenges faced by vegetable farmers, which can help inform agricultural policies and marketing strategies for insecticide producers in the region.
Molecular characterization of rice blast fungus (Pyricularia oryzae) from West Sumatra and their virulence to several rice cultivars
Get PDFGlobal rice production is severely impacted by rice blast disease, which is a devastating condition caused by the fungal pathogen Pyricularia oryzae. Many countries have reported blast diseases associated with rice yield loss. In Indonesia, this disease also destroys rice production in several rice fields in West Java, East Java, Central Java, Sumatra, and Sulawesi. The objectives of this study were to identify rice blast fungal isolates in West Sumatra and assess the resistance level of eight local and modern rice genotypes to this disease. Additionally, the rice genotypes were also evaluated for the presence of Pi genes associated with blast resistance by utilizing 25 simple sequence-repeats (SSR) markers known to be linked to rice blasts. The seedlings of all rice genotypes were exposed to fungal isolates to determine their blast resistance capacity based on leaf morphological traits. Before conducting blast resistance testing, the local isolates of rice blast fungus were molecularly identified by aligning sequences in a pairwise comparison. Based on the identification process, three P. oryzae (MoK19-49, MoK19-45, and MoK19-28) fungal isolates were identified. The confirmed P. oryzae isolate MoK19-28 was then used to assess the blast resistance of the rice genotypes using the SES-blast test. The resistance levels of all genotypes were evaluated by observing the morphology of infected leaves for 24 days. Four genotypes, namely Cantik Manis (CM), Bungo Sungkai (BS), Inpari 48 Blas (IB), and Inpago 9 (Ip9), exhibited resistance to leaf blast caused by P. oryzae isolate MoK19-28. Meanwhile, Pulau Batu (PB), Mundam Putiah (MP), and IR64-Sub1 (IR) displayed intermediate resistance to the disease. In contrast, the blast fungus P. oryzae isolate MoK19-28 severely impacted the Kuriak (K) genotype. The rice variety IB contains several Pi genes, specifically Pi1, Pi9, Pikh, and Pi37, which are associated with enhanced resistance to leaf blast caused by P. oryzae isolate MoK19-28. This genetic characteristic sets it apart from susceptible genotypes. This work has successfully identified multiple blast-resistant rice genotypes that could potentially be used in future rice improvement initiatives
Enhancing black gram “[Vigna mungo (l.) Hepper]” nutrient uptake and yield through integrated use of organic manure and inorganic fertilizer application
Get PDFBlack gram is an important legume crop cultivated throughout the world for its protein content and economic importance. The integrated nutrient management practice is the key strategy to increase the production and productivity of black gram to meet the protein needs of the growing population. There is an immediate need for organic manure application along with inorganic fertilizer for increasing the nutrient uptake efficiency of crops. The goal of the field experiment was to maximise the delivery of nutrients by recycling residue from the cropping system\u27s related components. Different organic manures and the appropriate dosages of NPK fertilisers were used in the studies from 2019 to 2021 and the field was laid out in split plot statistical design with 5 main plots viz., M1, M2, M3, M4, M5 and 3 Sub plots were fixed with different fertilizer levels viz., S1, S2 and S3. The significant influences on growth and yield attributes of black gram were observed. Nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content and uptake in grain and haulm yield significantly increased with the application of M2S1 compared to other combinations tried in both years. This experiment highlights the effectiveness of integrated nutrient management (INM) using organic manure and inorganic fertilizers. This approach can improve crop yield while promoting sustainability by reducing reliance solely on chemical fertilizers
Nano-technology as an eco-friendly approach in agriculture
Get PDFGlobal food security is now the most challenging issue due to the limited natural resources, low productivity of food crops in the agricultural sector, rapid climate changes and huge population growth. Researchers are trying to adopt newer innovations and technologies to increase the production of food crops to meet the demand. Nanotechnology is one of the most challenging technologies that could enhance the productivity of crops in sustainable agriculture, giving importance to nano-fertilizers, nano-pesticides, nano-biosensors and nano-material-based remediation strategies. The physical and chemical processes to produce nanoparticles (NP) have a detrimental effect on the ecosystem. Thus, green synthesis of NPs using various microorganisms offers a more promising and sustainable alternative. Nanotechnology is very promising as it has many potential benefits like improvement of food quality, minimization of agricultural inputs and enrichment of plants by absorbing nutrients from the soil. Nanoparticles can be used as nanofertilizers, distinct agrochemical carriers and site-targeted or regulated nutrition delivery with improved crop protection. The potential of nanomaterials offers a new green revolution in sustainable agriculture
Assessment of genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance in brinjal (Solanum melongena L.)
Get PDFBrinjal breeding lines of the F3 population (IC0598430 X CARI 1) were evaluated to estimate variability, heritability and genetic advance for different characters. Moderate PCV and GCV values were recorded for stem diameter, fruit weight and yield per plant. At the same time, low PCV and GCV were found for plant height, days to 50 % flowering, fruit length, fruit width, fruit length breadth ratio, fruit pedicel length, fruit pedicel diameter, number of branches per plant and number of fruits per plant. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for fruit weight and yield per plant exhibiting that the traits are controlled by additive gene action. Therefore, direct selection may be followed for improving brinjal yield by examining these characters. In the grouping of the F3 population into immune, highly resistant, resistant, moderately resistant, susceptible and highly susceptible as per the percentage of bacterial wilt disease incidence (PDI), all the lines understudy reported to be highly resistance
Morpho-anatomy of cape gooseberry flowers (Physalis peruviana L.) at various stages of development
Get PDFAs an indigenous remedy for a variety of ailments, cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana L.), a member of the Solanaceae family, has historically contributed significantly to health promotion. The metabolites contained in Physalis fruit have been used traditionally by some Chinese communities to treat and prevent various diseases, such as cancer and hepatitis. Research related to the analysis of secondary metabolites in cape gooseberry fruit has been widely conducted, but studies on the morphology and anatomy of flower development, especially in P. peruviana have not been carried out. This study aimed to examine the morphological and anatomical structure of P. peruviana flowers at various stages of development. The procedures included: collection of flower morphology data, preparation of anatomical slides of flowers using the paraffin embedding method and qualitative analysis. The observation results demonstrate that P. peruviana has a complete and perfect flower, which grows as a single axillary type with 5 sepals, attached to each other and is conventionally green with a purple tinge. The corolla is sticky and yellow, with a purple tinge on the neck. The stamen comprises 5 pale yellow anthers and a purple filament. From the bud initiation to anthesis, the development takes 13 days. The anther has 2 lobes or 2 thecae (dithecous) with four microsporangia (tetrasporangiate). The anther wall consists of 4 layers in stages I-V and 2 layers in stages VI and VII. Isobilateral microspores are of the tetrad type. The ovary comprises 2 carpels, while the ovule is anatropus type and has bitegmic structure. This study detailed the reproductive characteristics of P. peruviana and provided a reference framework for subsequent studies by aligning the floral reproductive development perspective to a phenological scope
Exploring the potential of synthetic seeds: Influence of explant, encapsulating agent and matrix, advantages and challenges
Get PDFSynthetic seed can serve as a substitute for conventional seed where conventional seed production is not practical. This method gives a viable solution for propagating plants that are difficult to reproduce through traditional means. Technologies based on synthetic seeds, encapsulating somatic embryos, shoot tissues, or axillary buds in a suitable matrix, demonstrate great influence over plant propagation by helping to accelerate germplasm exchange, increasing genetic preservation, and efficient genetic modification, thus providing the avenue for planting new seeds and accomplishing common goals. This review paper explores the importance of synthetic seeds, the impact of different explants, matrix composition, and encapsulating agents on the quality of synthetic seeds, as well as the benefits and drawbacks of synthetic seeds. Among the various explants used in synthetic seed production, somatic embryos promote genetic stability, shoot buds possess better viability, and axillary buds ensure genotype conservation. Alginate is the prevalent encapsulating agent due to its biocompatibility and cheapness. However, variable germination rates and microbial contamination remained a challenge and we must develop a protocol standardization too. Besides techniques like enhancing the germination rates, stabilizing genes, and having secondary metabolites in the process, the use of cryopreservation technologies and field performance evaluation is also crucially important in the process of creating synthetic seeds. This review discusses current trends in synthetic production research, emphasizing the need for new strategies to address poor germination rates and standardize explants used in synthetic seeds. It examines the factors affecting the production of synthetic seeds, factors affecting seed quality, and potential future developments
Nanobiosensors for early detection of plant pathogens
Get PDFPlant pathogens are a major concern in production of crops as they lead to a great loss of food grains. Although several methods are available to manage the diseases and the chemical-based methods are frequently used, and sometimes indiscriminate use poses serious problems to the environment. It is, therefore, necessary to detect plant pathogens at an early stage in order to control epidemics. Plant pathogens can be detected using conventional methods such as culture-dependent, biochemical and molecular techniques; however, these methods need advanced technical skills and well-equipped laboratory facilities and are not suitable for in situ analysis. Several nanotechnology-based methods are available for plant pathogen detection. Among them, biosensing systems for early detection of the pathogen using nanobiosensor are gaining momentum in field of research on plant pathogen detection. Materials having size ranging from one and one hundred nanometers are known as nanoparticles. These materials have special qualities that can be used to improve agricultural practices. Nanobiosensors are novel integrated systems of biosensors that are made up of a bioreceptor, transducer and a detector on the nano scale size. These nano-inspired biosensors have played a major role in enhancing nature of life through different medical, environmental and quality-control applications globally. Numerous nanobiosensors have been developed, including those for detecting plant infections caused by fungi, viruses, and bacteria. This review will contribute to understanding the basics of biosensors and their accessible biosensor based detecting tools and techniques for plant pathogens
Understanding the variation in morphology and rhizome yield of Indian ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) through distinctness, uniformity and stability (DUS) descriptors: A natural marker to enhance crop productivity
Get PDFGinger (Zingiber officinale) is a widely consumed and economically significant plant known for its medicinal and culinary properties. Understanding the diversity within ginger germplasm is vital for its successful use in breeding programs and conservation efforts. Morphological characterization plays a key role in identifying distinct varieties, ensuring uniform traits, protecting breeders\u27 rights and conserving genetic diversity, all of which support commercial production and drive innovation in breeding. The present investigation was carried out at the Hybrid Rice Evaluation Centre, Gudalur, Nilgiris, with 32 genotypes to study the variability for identifying the best performing ginger genotypes. Genotypes were examined for 2 qualitative and 8 quantitative traits using Distinctness, Uniformity and Stability (DUS) parameters. Out of the traits assessed, plant height, number of leaves on the main stem and dry recovery were monomorphic, with no variation within the population. However, 4 characters, normal growth habit, shoot diameter, leaf length and leaf width, exhibited 2 distinct variations within the genotypes, indicating dimorphism. Additionally, 3 traits such as the number of tillers per clump, rhizome thickness and rhizome shapes showed multiple variations among the studied genotypes, illustrating polymorphism within the population. Principal component analysis was conducted on 7 principal components with eigenvalues of more than one accounted for 98.28 % of the total variability. Among these traits, leaf length, rhizome thickness and number of tillers demonstrated the highest variation, while the remaining traits showed lower variability. Based on PCA and cluster analysis, the genotypes Nadia, Manipur Local, Aswathy, Nagaland Local, Bhaise, ACC 578, Himachal Local, Rio De Janeiro, IISR Vajra, Humnabad Local, Hassan Local, Thalavadi Local and Chikkamagalore Local 2 were identified as the most diverse genotypes
Growth, yield and secondary metabolite elicitation in response to chitosan application in turmeric (Curcuma longa L.)
Get PDFCurcuma longa L., is a rhizomatous, herbaceous plant belonging to Zingiberaceae family and has a wide range of pharmacological activities and cosmetic industrial value. Chitosan, extracted from fungal cell wall and crustacean shells is an emerging plant biostimulant that evokes growth promotion and metabolite elicitation. An experiment was conducted to study the effect of different concentrations and frequencies of foliar application of chitosan on plant growth, yield and secondary metabolite production in turmeric varieties, Sobha and Sona. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with three replications. The treatments included, F1: Chitosan 1 g/L monthly, F2: Chitosan 2 g/L monthly, F3: Chitosan 3 g/L bimonthly, F4: Chitosan 4 g/L bimonthly, F5: Chitosan 4 g/L trimonthly, F6: Chitosan 5 g/L trimonthly, Cp: Primed control and C: Unprimed control. The growth parameters were recorded at 6 months after transplanting (MAT) and yield at harvest. Curcumin content was analysed through HPTLC and expression profile of curcumin synthase gene was carried out by Quantitative Real-time PCR. Among the treatments, monthly application of Chitosan 2 g/L was observed to give better results in terms of plant height, leaf area, shoot weight and rhizome spread at 6 MAT. Monthly application of Chitosan 2 g/L, F2 and bimonthly application of Chitosan 4 g/L, F4 recorded significantly higher fresh rhizome yield per plant in variety Sobha (312.89 g and 322.85 g, respectively) and Sona (286.37 g and 284.06 g, respectively). Monthly application of Chitosan 2 g L-1 (F2) recorded a significantly higher curcumin content. The curcumin content enhanced by 89 % in Sobha and 54 % in Sona over the unprimed control. Chitosan treatment enhanced the expression of curcumin synthase gene by 1.48 fold in Sobha and 1.77 fold in Sona over control. Thus, monthly foliar application of chitosan 2 g/L gave better growth, yield, curcumin production and regulate curcumin synthase gene expression in turmeric in comparison to other frequencies and concentrations of chitosan