821 research outputs found
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Assessing resistance against Alternaria leaf spot in marigold genotypes(Tagetes spp.): A comprehensive in vitro and in vivo study
Full text linkMarigold (Tagetes spp.) a member of the Asteraceae family, is a globally acclaimed flower crop owing to its significant industrial value. The present study devised an effective screening method utilising a dual approach study, both in vitro and in vivo, for identifying potentially resistant genotypes of marigold. Pathogen isolation from infected plants revealed that 7 out of 10 isolates belong to Alternaria, confirming its prevalent association with leaf spots in marigold. Pathogenicity assessment revealed isolate I-3 as the most virulent isolate, and hence, it was subsequently used for the dual screening programme. Molecular characterization of the virulent isolate based on Internal Transcribed Spacer (ITS) region sequencing revealed its 100% homology with previously reported sequences of Alternaria alternata. Potato dextrose agar and Host-extract media (with dextrose) supported rapid mycelial growth and abundant sporulation. Among 60 genotypes of marigold screened under in vitro and in vivo conditions, AMS-48, AMS-123, Pusa Parv, Pusa Utsav and MGO 3 exhibited moderate resistance. At the same time, Pusa Basanti Gainda, Pusa Deep and Tagetes minuta selections were found to be highly susceptible. These findings were consistent under both conditions, validating the screening methods. The moderately resistant genotypes can be pivotal in marigold breeding programs for developing resilient marigold varieties
Field efficacy of Semia biostimulant on the growth and yield of Pechay(Brassica rapa subsp. chinensis)
Full text linkA field efficacy trial was conducted to assess the effect of Semia biostimulant on pechay in the farmer’s field. Variables such as plant height, leaf length, leaf width, number of leaves, root length, and root biomass have increased by as much as 2.46, 2.47, 8.08, 3.61, 17.52, and 56.93%, respectively, relative to inorganic fertilizer treatment alone. In terms of its feasibility in pechay production, 3 L/ha foliar spray of Semia biostimulant in addition to inorganic fertilization is recommended to increase yield by 32.12%
Genetic inheritance and identification of molecular markers linked tomale sterility in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)
Full text linkThe demand for hybrid varieties of African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is on the rise due to the increased productivity and uniformity exhibited by F1 hybrids. To develop hybrids in marigold, male sterile line is essential, as emasculation is complex due to the unique flower structure of marigold. Inheritance of petaloid male sterility was investigated in a seed propagated line across six generations (P1, P2, F1, F2, BC1 and BC2), that confirmed a single dominant gene governing petaloid male sterility over multiple seasons. The marker CPSSR-39 exhibited clear and consistent segregation, following a Mendelian ratio 1:1 in F1 which is in accordance with the genes governing petaloid male sterility. This is the first report of genic petaloid male sterility with a linked marker marking a significant advancement in heterosis breeding of marigold
Etiology of mango fruit blackening causedby sooty blotch fungal complex in Eastern India
Full text linkNew kind of superficial blackening caused by sooty blotch fungi was first noticed on mango (Mangifera indica L.) fruits in Odisha, Eastern India during late summers of 2015 and 2016. It emerged as a new threat to quality mango production since it affects the market value of the fruits drastically and its export potential. Hundred mango fruits from orchards in two locations were arbitrarily sampled and colonies of each mycelial type were counted on each mango fruits which revealed ramose type of mycelial colonies was more predominant. Representative colonies were isolated; cultures were purified and proved for its pathogenicity. Genetic identity was assigned through ITS-rDNA sequence analysis which revealed the association of four fungal genera such as Pseudocercospora sp., Pallidocercospora sp., Zasmidium sp. and Passalora sp. with sooty blotch of mango. Scanning electron microscopy studies confirmed the damage of waxy layer of fruits which led to shriveling of infected fruits in storage which highlights the significance of producing mangoes free from sooty blotch disease. Further investigations are required, particularly related to host-pathogen-weather interaction and spatiotemporal distribution across the major mango growing regions of India. This study established the association of sooty blotch fungal complex on mango for the first time in India
Assessment of physiological and quality traits of peace lily(Spathiphyllum wallisii) under coloured shade nets
Full text linkStudies were carried out to evaluate the physiological and quality traits of peace lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii) under different shade nets (50% shading) and control (tree shade). The results showed that plants grown under black-coloured shade nets recorded the maximum total chlorophyll content in leaves (79.02 SPAD units) and photosynthetic rate (1.64 μmol CO₂ m⁻² s⁻¹), while white shade nets promoted early flowering. The number of flowers produced per plant (2.00), flower stalk length (43.23 cm), flower stalk diameter (3.58 mm), spathe length (15.10 cm), spathe width (6.09 cm), and vase life (2.44 days) were highest in plants grown under black-coloured shade nets. Peace lily grown under black shade nets also showed overall better performance in root and foliage quality parameters; therefore, black shade nets can be recommended for commercial cultivation of peace lily
Spatio-temporal dynamics of brinjal prices and arrivals: A case study of theterai region markets in West Bengal
Full text linkThe study examined the trends and market dynamics for the prices and arrivals of brinjal (Solanum melongena L.) in the Terai region of West Bengal, employing robust and novel statistical methodologies to address challenges in agricultural market predictability. The research highlighted the impact of seasonality, perishability, and demand supply imbalances on price volatility. Standardized Innovative Polygon Trend Analysis, a non-parametric approach previously unexplored in horticultural studies, provided a comprehensive analysis of the intricate cause effect relationships between price and arrivals, capturing seasonal shifts, inter-period transitions, and non monotonic trends overlooked by conventional methods. Increased arrivals during winter and spring caused price deflation, while summer and autumn saw reduced arrivals and corresponding price inflation. Monsoon uncertainties led to irregular arrival fluctuations and elevated prices. November and December exhibited significant price changes. In Alipurduar and Jalpaiguri, arrivals followed an increasing trend except in winter, whereas Cooch Behar and Toofanganj showed consistently declining arrivals. The study demonstrated that S-IPTA could unravel seasonal behaviors and offer practical insights for farmers and policymakers to regulate production and supply chains effectively. By bridging research gaps, this pioneering use of S-IPTA can serve as a robust tool for analyzing agricultural market trends and improving decision-making
Evaluation of cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) genotypes for drought toleranceusing high throughput PEG induced drought indices
Full text linkCucumber is highly sensitive to drought due to its high-water requirement. Identifying genotypes that can tolerate early-stage moisture stress can reduce mortality and improve survival during drought. In this study, 16 genotypes were evaluated for seedling stage drought stress (SDS) tolerance using PEG8000 (18%). Five traits namely germination percentage, germination index, germination energy, shoot length (85.26% reduction) and root length were recorded and analyzed using five selection indices, namely arithmetic mean productivity (AMP), geometric mean productivity (GMP), harmonic mean productivity (HMP), stress tolerance index (STI) and membership function value (MFV). The indices were applied to assess the variability among genotypes and identify those tolerant to drought stress. Among the indices MFV and AMP were determined to be most desirable due to the better discriminating ability and strong correlation with mean shoot length. Based on the indices, the genotypes G9, G2 and W4 were identified as the most tolerant to PEG induced drought stress at seedling stage. Thus, the identified genotypes can be used in further breeding program of cucumber improvement
Molecular characterisation, biology, behaviour and feeding potential of a novelpredator of the mango ecosystem: Sycanus bifidus (Fabricius, 1787)
Full text linkThis study provides an overview of the comprehensive study on Sycanus bifidus, a new generalist predatory fauna collected from mango ecosystem, encompassing its molecular characterization, biology, behaviour and feeding potential. The research delves into the intricate details of S. bifidus, shedding light on its morphological features, and ecological significance. Molecular characterization techniques, including DNA sequencing and genetic analysis, play a pivotal role in elucidating the species genetic makeup, population dynamics, and potential adaptations. The study also explores the intricate biology and behaviour of S. bifidus. Furthermore, the research investigates the feeding potential of S. bifidus, emphasizing its role as a predator in controlling pest populations. An in-depth analysis of its feeding habits, and efficiency as a biological control agent provides valuable information for the development of sustainable pest management strategies
Diversity analysis in Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.) germplasm
Full text linkThere is a wide array of germplasm availability in hibiscus throughout the globe. India, harbours a rich wealth of hibiscus, including H. rosa-sinensis, H. fragilis, H. storckii, H. schizopetalous, etc. These species serve as crucial repositories of genes responsible for various traits, including biotic and abiotic stress tolerance, colour intensity, petal arrangement, and hardiness. Safeguarding these genetic resources is essential for their utilization in future breeding programme. In this study, 19 hibiscus germplasm underwent precise classification based on 23 vegetative and floral characters following distinctness, uniformity, and stability (DUS) test guidelines of Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Authority, New Delhi, India. Dissimilarity calculations, hierarchical cluster analysis, network plot analysis, and principal component analysis (PCA) were employed to assess the extent of diversity among the germplasm. The highest diversity was observed in variety June’s Joy. The hierarchical cluster analysis grouped the species into four major clusters, validated by linear discriminant analysis. Notably, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis germplasm grouped in the same cluster for flower colour. PCA results mirrored the dendrogram pattern, with June’s Joy standing out distinctly. While, no single morphological trait can singularly differentiate all germplasms, the collection of a comprehensive passport data incorporating various traits is imperative for advancing further studies in hibiscus genetic diversity and breeding programme
Effects of cold stress and melioration on survival andgrowth winter marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)
Full text linkThe current study examined the impact of cold stress on marigold. The genotype Pusa Bahar during winter cultivation and its melioration using elicitors, and plastic tunnels at various sowing dates. Comparing low plastic tunnels to open field settings, the results demonstrated a considerable gain in plant height (72.08 cm), dry matter accumulation (74.84 g), single flower weight (8.92 g), as well as yield (390.59 g), among other survival, growth, and blooming indices. Furthermore, it was discovered that the best time to sow marigold plants was October 15th. This was demonstrated by the plants’ height (69.49 cm), dry matter accumulation (71.68 g), single flower weight (8.45 g), and yield (381.04 g). Along with this, marigold plants under cold stress showed significantly higher plant height (71.96 cm), dry matter accumulation (74.17 g), single flower weight (8.94 g), and yield (384.82 g) when 200 ppm of chito oligosaccharide was applied, especially when combined with arbuscular mycorrhiza. The viability of low plastic tunnels and the effectiveness of elicitors in boosting marigold plant survival, development, and production, as well as boosting plant resistance to cold stress during winter farming, are demonstrated