Volume 24, Number 3 (November, 2002)
Titles of research papers/articles alongwith their abstracts.
For full text, please contact to Editor-in-chief at : md@cropresearch.org
1. S. HOPKINSON, U. R. BISHNOI AND E. CEBERT [Sowing dates, seeding and nitrogen rates effects on yield and yield components of canola] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 407-416 (2002). Department of Plant & Soil Science, Alabama A & M University, P. O. Box 1208, Normal, Al. 35672, USA.
ABSTRACT
Canola (Brassica napus L.), grown in general, and particularly in the mid-United States, is without any well established production practices. This is particularly true for new varieties. Therefore, research was conducted for two years to investigate the influence of planting dates, seeding and nitrogen rates on seed yield and yield components in canola. Effects of two planting dates (27 September and 10 October) in 1998 and three (20 September, 1 October and 15 October) in 1999, three seeding rates (1.5, 3 and 6 kg ha-1) and four nitrogen rates (0, 60, 120 and 180 kg N ha-1) on yield, pods per plant and per cent oil content in canola seed were investigated. The highest average seed yields of 2362.8 and 3204 kg ha-1 were obtained with the 10 October and 1 October in 1998 and 1999 growing seasons, respectively. The highest nitrogen (180 kg N ha-1) and seeding rates (6.0 kg ha-1) produced the highest yields. The highest seed yield of 3165.9 kg ha-1 was produced at the 10 October planting date in 1998, while in 1999, the highest seed yield of 3779.5 kg ha-1 was obtained at the 1 October planting date when 180 kg N ha-1 was applied at the seeding rate of 6.0 kg ha-1. The highest number of pods per plant was produced at the lowest seeding and highest nitrogen rates. The average seed oil contents were 41.2 and 41.0% for 1998 and 1999 growing seasons, respectively, and did not vary significantly among treatments during both the growing seasons. Number of pods, seeds per pod and seed size were significantly correlated with seed yield. The interaction effect of nitrogen and seeding for seed yield and number of pods per plant were significant.
2. K. THANUNATHAN, D. KALYANASUNDARAM, V. MAYAVA-RAMBAN, R. SINGARAVEL AND S. KANDASAMY [Ratooning of rice-An economically viable agrotechnology for flood prone areas] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 417-420 (2002). Faculty of Agriculture Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002 (Tamil Nadu), India.
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted to find out the effect of ratooning of rice and feasibility of growing rice-fallow pulses in the flood prone tail-end areas of Cauvery deltaic zone. Rice cultivars having different duration viz., long duration (Ponmani, White ponni and CO 43), medium duration (ADT 38) and short duration (PY5) were tried in different rice growing seasons viz., ‘Samba’, late ‘Samba’, ‘Kuruvai’, ‘Thaladi’ and late ‘Kuruvai’ seasons. Ratooning was practised in short and medium duration varieties with a view to accommodate a pulse crop in rice-fallows. Results of the study showed that short duration rice variety was amenable for ratooning and rice-fallow blackgram could be successfully grown in the correct season (January-March). The cumulative crop yields (main rice crop, ratoon rice and blackgram), cropping intensity, net income and cost : benefit ratio were maximum when short duration rice cv. PY 5 was cultivated in ‘Kuruvai’ followed by ratooning of the same rice cultivar and growing of blackgram in rice fallows.
3. K. THANUNATHAN AND V. SIVASUBRAMANIAN [Age of seedlings and crop management practices for high density (HD) grain in rice] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 421-424 (2002). Faculty of Agriculture Annamalai University, Annamalainagar-608 002 (Tamil Nadu), India.
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted to study the effect of four levels of nitrogen application (75, 100, 125 and 150 kg N ha-1) with and without ZnSO4 (30 kg ha-1) and four water, regimes (continuous 5 cm submer-gence, irrigation one day after disappearance of ponded water, irrigation three days after disappearance of ponded water and Chinese method (i. e. draining water at the end of maximum tillering stage) on high density grain production of CO-43 rice planted with different aged seedlings (25, 30 and 35 days). The floater weight was more with 25 days old seedlings. Aged seedlings supplied with higher levels of N, with zinc sulphate and maintaining 5 cm submergence continuously or draining water at the end of tillering stage (Chinese method) recorded maximum number of high density grains.
4. R. K. SINGH, S. N. SHARMA, R. SINGH AND M. D. PANDEY [Efficacy of methods of planting and weed control measures on nutrient removal by rice (Oryza sativa L.) and associated weeds] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 425-429 (2002). Department of Agronomy Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi-221 005 (U. P.), India.
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted during rainy seasons of 1997 and 1998 to evaluate the comparative efficacy of methods of planting and weed control practices on weed growth, crop yield and nutrient (N, P and K) uptake by rice (Oryza sativa L.) and weeds. The dominant weed flora were : Echinochloa colonum (L.) Link, E. crusgalli (L.) Beauv., Cyperus rotundus L., C. iria L. and Commelina benghalensis (L.). Among the methods, puddled transplanted rice removed significantly more N, P and K than unpuddled transplanting and direct seeded rice. Unpuddled stale transplanted rice superseded unpuddled transplanting and resulted as second best method. However, weeds removed nutrients (N, P and K) eight times higher under direct seeded rice to that of puddled transplanting. The sequential application of anilofos @ 0.4 kg ha-1 combined with 2, 4-DEE @ 0.5 kg ha-1 as pre- and post-emergence and anilofos @ 0.4 kg ha-1 (pre-em)+mechanical weeding at 21 DAP brought about almost identical increase in N, P and K removal but remained significantly higher than weedy check. Hand weedings proved superiority over all treatments. Herbicidal treatments statistically reduced the nutrient removal by weeds.
5. V. V. PADMAJA, B. GOPAL SINGH AND V. BALASUBRAMANIAN [Physiological aspects of yield improvement in rice-I] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 430-434 (2002). Department of Plant Physiology College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, India.
ABSTRACT
Physiological changes that occurred in varietal improvement of rice during the past four decades would be helpful for further improvement in yield potential of rice varieties. The present study was carried out during 1998 and 1999 wet season by selecting 10 rice varieties released during the last four decades in A. P. The genetic gain in yield during this period was attributed to more leaf dry weight. Besides the direct contribution of leaf dry weight, most of the yield components contributed through it. The correlation study revealed that yield had significantly positive correlation with yield components such as number of panicles/m2, number of spikelets/panicle and filled grain per cent.
6. R. K. MAITI, DIANA LAURA LOPEZ SANTIAGO, P. WESCHE EBELING AND S. REYNA TELEZ [Effect of lead and cadmium on germination, seedling growth and chlorophyll content of beet greens (Beta vulgaris var. cicla), parsley (Petroselinum crispum), papalo (Porophylum ruderale) and string beans (Phaseolus vulgaris) Crop Res. 24 (3) : 435-442 (2002). Departamento de Quimica y Biologia Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, Puebla, C. P. 72 820, México (*e-mail : rmaiti@mail.udlap.mx)
ABSTRACT
The study discusses the effect of lead and cadmium on germination, seedling growth and chlorophyll content of four vegetable species : Petroselinum crispum, Beta vulgaris, Porophylum ruderale and Phaseolus vulgaris. Pb at lower concentrations promoted seedling growth, but at higher concentrations reduced growth and chlorophyll content. Cadmium affected both germination, seedling growth and reduced chlorophyll contents.
7. T. SÖGÜT AND H. ARIOGLU [Yield and quality components of sugarbeets in the dry conditions of Turkey] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 443-448 (2002). Department of Field Crops, Faculty of Agriculture University of Dicle, 21280, Diyarbakir, Turkey.
ABSTRACT
This research was conducted with the objective of determining root yield and quality traits and their relationships of sugarbeet genotypes. Ten sugarbeet genotypes were planted in plots arranged in randomized complete block design with three replications at the Experimental Area of Agriculture Faculty, Dicle University, Diyarbakir, Turkey during 1998 and 1999. The significant variations for sugar yield and ash content were observed among the genotypes examined in 1998, while variations in all the characters among sugarbeet genotypes were not significant in 1999. Sugar yield varied between13.03 and 8.75 t ha-1 and the sugar yield of Tiara genotype showed more than all 10 genotypes in each year. Therefore, calculation of correlation cofficient (r) using the data from all 10 genotypes resulted in high positive correlations among root yield and sugar yield in each year.
8. . J. L. HERNÁNDEZ PIÑERO, R. K. MAITI, MA. JULIA VERDE STAR, GRACIELA GARCIA DÍAZ, ADRIANA NUÑEZ GONZALEZ, M. A. LUISA CARDENAS AVILA AND RAHIM FOROUGHBAKHCH [Potential use of Phaseolus vulgaris L., Avena sativa L. and Medicago sativa L. in the removal of lead and cadmium from soils] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 449-452 (2002). Postgraduate División Facultad de Ciencias Biológicas U. A. N. L., A. P. F.-16 66450 San Nicolás de los Garza, N. L., México
ABSTRACT
Pb and Cd contents in roots and shoots were determined in seedlings of Phaseolus vulgaris L. var pinto americano, P. vulgaris var. negro, Avena sativa L. and Medicago sativa L. growing hydroponically in Hoagland’s nutrients solutions with 200, 600, 1200 and 2000 ppm Pb as well as 3 and 10 ppm Cd. The species showed a similar capacity of Pb accumulation in shoots which occurred in concentrations proportional to the Pb content in the substrate. On the other hand, Avena sativa was the species that accumulated more Cd in its tissues. However, Cd accumulation occurred in a higher proportion in the roots. The present study confirms the potential of three species as bioaccumulators of heavy metals useful for phytoremediation.
9. R. K. RAGHUWANSHI, S. S. KUSHWAHA, V. S. GAUTAM AND N. K. SHARMA [Chemical composition, nutrient uptake pattern, yield and economics in soybean-sorghum intercropping] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 453-457 (2002). J. N. K. V. V. College of Agriculture, Indore-452 001 (M. P.), India
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted in the year 1999-2000 to evaluate the soybean-sorghum intercropping system with respect to its yield, chemical composition and nutrient uptake pattern. Experiment was laid out on Research Farm Field No. 17 at College of Agriculture, Indore in randomised block design with seven treatment combinations and replicated thrice. Soybean+sorghum was taken in 2 : 1, 1 : 2, 4 : 2, 3 : 3, 6 : 3 and as well as soybean and sorghum sole. Results obtained from the experiment indicated that highest total seed yield and stover yield was in soybean and sorghum sown as sole i. e.879 and 4537 kg ha-1, respectively. However, the total monetary return obtained in sorghum sole (Rs. 33688 ha-1) when dry fodder was included which was at par with soybean+sorghum in 1 : 2 ratio (Rs. 30084 ha-1) and oil content was in 17.16% NPK content was also found highest in 6 : 3 ratio.
10. M. SRINIVAS AND SHAIK MOHAMMAD [Performance of greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] and response functions as influenced by different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 458-462 (2002). Department of Agronomy College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, India.
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted at the Students’ Farm of College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during kharif 1999 to study the effect of different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus on crop yields as well as the response functions for optimizing the nutrient dose of greengram. The soil was sandy loam in texture, low in available nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and rich in potassium. The results indicated that the Rhizobium inoculation of greengram had a significant increase in plant height, number of leaves and phytomass accumulation/plant. The yield components like pods/plant, number of seeds/pod and 1000-seed weight also increased significantly. Greengram fertilized with 20 kg N ha-1 produced significantly more vegetative growth and yield components. Obviously, the production of seed and haulms increased significantly at this level of nitrogen compared to control. It was not beneficial to fertilize the crop with 40 or 60 kg N ha-1 as the yield was on par with 20 kg ha-1. Application of 25 kg P2O5 ha-1 significantly raised the vegetative growth and yield components. It also enhanced the seed and haulm yield significantly compared to control. But most productive level was 50 kg P2O5 ha-1 . The interaction effect due to different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus was not significant. The response curves for yield-nutrient relationship both for nitrogen and phosphatic fertilizers were quadratic. The estimated optimum economic doses for the most profitable level of fertilization were 38 kg N and 54 kg P2O5 ha-1.
11. M. SRINIVAS AND SHAIK MOHAMMAD [Effect of Rhizobium inoculation and different levels of nitrogen and phosphorus on yield and economics of greengram [Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 463-466 (2002). Department of Agronomy College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad-30, India.
ABSTRACT
A field study was made to explore the role of Rhizobium inoculation and different levels of nitrogen and phosphatic fertilizers on production and economics of greengram at the Students’ Farm, College of Agriculture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad during kharif 1999. The soil was sandy loam in texture, low in available nitrogen, medium in phosphorus and rice in potassium. The results indicated that the seed inoculation of greengram had no significant yield advantage compared to the uninoculated crop. Application of 20 kg N ha-1 significantly raised the seed yield from 1033 kg ha-1 in control to 1105 kg ha-1. It was proved that the crop fertilized with 40 or 60 kg N ha-1 was not beneficial as the yield was on par with 20 kg N ha-1. The yield of haulm also followed similar trend. Greengram fertilized with 25 kg P2O5 ha-1 produced significantly more yield of 1055 kg ha-1 compared to 970 kg ha-1 in control. Most productive level was 50 kg P2O5 ha-1. It increased the yield significantly to 1145 kg ha-1. The additional returns with increased productivity over control increased with increasing level of nitrogen upto 60 kg N ha-1 and phosphorus upto 75 kg P2O5 ha-1. But the additional net returns of Rs. 788 ha-1 due to additional expenses on 40 kg N ha-1 were on par with additional net returns of Rs. 771 ha-1 with additional expenses on 20 kg N ha-1. The maximum net returns per rupee invested on nitrogenous fertilizers over control were obtained with 20 kg N ha-1. The maximum additional net returns/ha and additional profit per rupee invested on 50 kg P2O5 ha-1 over control were both maximized to Rs. 1325 and 1.39, respectively. The most productive and economical level of fertilization was 20 kg N and 50 kg P2O5 ha-1.
12. V. RODRIGUEZ, H. S. AL-ASMI AND H. A. ESECHIE [Effect of pyroligneous liquid on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.)] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 471-475 (2002). Department of Agriculture San Mateo County, P. O. Box 999, Redwood City, CA. 94064, USA.J
ABSTRACT
An experiment was conducted during summer seasons of 1999 and 2000 to see the effect of N and P levels on mungbean. Genotype MH 85-111 showed its superiority over T44 in respect to all the yield attributes and grain yield. Application of N upto 20 kg and of P2O5 upto 40 kg/ha increased significantly the yield attributes in mungbean. However, the optimum dose of N and P for summer planted mungbean was worked out to be 24.5 and 47.5 kg/ha for T44 and 25.4 and 47.9 kg/ha for MH 85-111, respectively.
13. V. RODRIGUEZ, H. S. AL-ASMI AND H. A. ESECHIE [Effect of pyroligneous liquid on growth and yield of maize (Zea mays L.)] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 471-475 (2002). Department of Agriculture San Mateo County, P. O. Box 999, Redwood City, CA. 94064, USA.
ABSTRACT
The effect of pyroligneous liquid, a by-product of wood charcoal industry, on the growth and yield of maize cv. Nizwa yellow, was investigated in 1996 and 1997 in experiments conducted at Sultan Qaboos University Agricultural Experiment Station. The different pyroligneous liquid treatments were : undiluted form, 10 x dilution, 20 x dilution, 40 x dilution and 60 x dilution. Application of the undiluted form resulted in very low plant survival rate (39.4%) at mid-silk. Surviving plants had several tillers, a characteristic not previously reported in the maize cultivar used. This treatment also resulted in shorter plants with reduced leaf area, number of days from sowing to 50% flowering, grain and stover yields. Application of pyroligneous liquid at 20 x dilution gave the highest grain yield, while the least grain yield was recorded in plants irrigated with the pure liquid. Based on these results, it was concluded that pyroligneous liquid in its pure form had no fertilizer value. Although when mixed with irrigation water, pyroligneous liquid has a limited fertilizer value, its best potential is probably as a soil amendment, especially in soils with high pH values where micronutrient availability may be a problem.
14. B. J. PATEL AND I. S. PATEL [Response of summer pearlmillet (Pennisetum glaucum) to different dates, methods of sowing and nitrogen levels under north Gujarat agro-climatic conditions] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 476-480 (2002). Regional Research Station Gujarat Agricultural University, Sardar Krushinagar-385 506 (Gujarat), India .
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted on loamy sand soil at Sardar Krushinagar for two successive summer seasons of 1996 and 1997 to study the effect of different dates, methods of sowing and nitrogen levels in pearlmillet. Results revealed that sowing of pearlmillet [Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. emend. Stuntz] on 1 March by transplanting with seedlings raised under normal conditions gave significantly higher grain yield than that of crop sown on 15 February and 15 March. In case of early sown crop i. e. sowing on 15 February, drilling was found better. Delay in sowing reduced the grain yield. Application of 160 kg N/ha has recorded the highest grain yield.
15. SUHAS V. BOBADE, N. ASOKARAJA AND P. MURALI ARTHA-NARI [Effect of drip irrigation and nitrogen levels on yield, water use and water use efficiency of brinjal] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 481-486 (2002). Department of Agronomy Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-641 003 (Tamil Nadu), India.
ABSTRACT
Response of brinjal to drip irrigation with three levels of nitrogen was studied in summer and kharif seasons of 1998, at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University Farm, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, India. Drip irrigation at 75% of surface coupled with 100% of recommended nitrogen dose produced 40-55% higher yield with water saving was about 22-26%. The total water used in this treatment was 535.35 and 653.97 mm in summer and kharif seasons, respectively. Hence, the treatment combination of drip irrigation at 75% of surface once in two days with 100% of recommended dose (100 kg ha-1) proved best.
16. D. SINGH, AKHILESH SINGH, R. KUMAR, A. KUMAR AND S. KUMAR [Differential reaction of fungicides to late blight (Phytophthora infestans) of potato] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 487-493 (2002). H. P. K. V. Regional Research Station Dhaulakuan-173 001 (Himachal Pradesh), India
ABSTRACT
Out of eight systemic and non-systemic fungicides evaluated against Phytophthora infestans late blight pathogen of potato, three fungicides, namely, Ridomil MZ (750 µg ml-1), SAN 518 (1000 µg ml-1) and Indofil M-45 (2000 µg ml-1) of commercial product resulted in complete inhibition of sporangial germination. Similarly, pre- and post-inoculation sprays of Ridomil (0.25%) and SAN 518 (0.25%) were found highly effective on detached leaves under laboratory conditions and potted plants under green house conditions. Previcur N also gave good level of disease control though its performance was poor in inhibiting sporangial germination. In general, pre-inoculation spray was better than post-inoculation spray. Ridomil MZ (0.2%) was also found most effective in containing late blight tuber infection. However, tubers dipped for 30 and 60 min in fungicide suspension did not show significant difference in lesion development. Alternate sprays of Ridomil MZ and Indofil M-45 could be used for developing spray schedule of systemic and protectant fungicides against blight. Tuber dip in Ridomil MZ suspension could be used for eradicating late blight tuber infection before planting.
17. SANJAY KUMAR AND D. R. CHAUDHARY [Effect of FYM, molybdenum and boron application on yield attributes and yield of cauliflower] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 494-496 (2002). CSKHPKV Regional Research Station, Bajaura (H. P.), India.
ABSTRACT
The application of B and Mo had significant effect of the curd diameter and weight and ultimately the curd yield of cauliflower but only in the absence of FYM. Application of boron @ 10 kg borax/ha increased the curd yield by about 32%, whereas that of sodium molybdate @ 0.5 increased the curd yield by about 14%. Application of 25 t/ha FYM in addition to 100% recommended NPK enhanced the yield by about 27% in comparison to 100% NPK alone.
18. RAKESH KUMAR, S. K. SHARMA AND ANJU [Genetic divergence analysis in lentil (Lens culinaris Medik)] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 497-500 (2002). Department of Plant Breeding CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125 004, India.
ABSTRACT
Genetic divergence using D2 statistics among 44 lentil genotypes of different eco-geographic origin revealed existence of considerable diversity. The genotypes were grouped into X clusters. Maximum genetic distance was observed between VIII and IX, indicating greater divergence between the genotypes belonging to these clusters. The genotypes included in the diverse clusters can be used as promising parents for hybridization programme for obtaining high heterotic response and thus better segregants in lentil.
19. G. KRISHNAIAH, K. RAJA REDDY AND M. REDDI SEKHAR [Variability studies in sesame] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 501-504 (2002). Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati (A. P.), India.
ABSTRACT
Thirty-six entries (8 parents and 28 F1’s) of sesame were evaluated for variability, heritability, genetic advance and genetic advance as per cent of mean in 13 quantitative characters. Close resemblance between GCV and PCV was observed for all the characters indicating that selection for these characters would be much effective. High GCV and heritability coupled with high genetic advance were observed for capsules on secondary branches, number of secondary branches, capsules on primary branches, capsules on main stem and plant height suggesting simple selection as effective to improve these traits.
20. G. KRISHNAIAH, K. RAJA REDDY AND M. REDDI SEKHAR [Identification of superior heterotic crosses for yield and yield components in sesame] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 505-508 (2002). Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding S. V. Agricultural College, Tirupati (A. P.), India.
ABSTRACT
A study was made in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) to assess the extent of heterosis in 28 F1 hybrids derived from a 8 x 8 diallel cross. The 28 F1 hybrids and their parents were used to estimate the heterosis for 13 traits including seed yield. Based on heterosis and per se performance, the superior crosses were identified for each trait. Heterosis for yield was generally accompanied by heterosis for component traits. The cross Madhavi x Rajeswari which showed superior performance in yield and yield components was emerged out as the best combination among the 28 crosses evaluated.
21. G. PADMAVATHI, B. S. NAIK AND C. KOLE [Variation in seed albumin banding patterns between and within some aromatic and non-aromatic rice genotypes] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 509-513 (2002). Laboratory of Molecular Biology & Biotechnology Orissa University of Agriculture & Technology, Bhubaneswar-751 003 (Orissa), India.
ABSTRACT
Sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE) of seed albumins of seven aromatic and five non-aromatic rice cultivars resulted in the scoring of five polymorphic polypeptide bands. Of these, a band of 63.1 kD was present only in the non-aromatic varieties. Two bands of 93.3 and 47.9 kD were present only in two and one non-aromatic genoype, respectively. Two bands of 60.3 and 51.3 kD were polymorphic for their presence within both aromatic and non-aromatic genotypes. These polymorphic polypeptides can be used as markers for verification of hybridity in crossing programme using the cultivars with their expression as male parents aiming at genetic studies on aroma and breeding of improved aromatic genotypes.
22. P. MURALI ARTHANARI AND T. N. BALASUBRAMANIAN [Wet and dry spell analysis (Markov Chain Model) for selected regions of Tamil Nadu] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 514-516 (2002). Department of Agronomy Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore-3 (T. N.), India.
ABSTRACT
For agricultural planning, it is imperative to understand the sequence of dry and wet periods occurrence. For this purpose, study is made through probability of occurrence of wet and dry spell by employing Markov Chain Model. In this study, the rainfall data (1973-2000) were collected from Agricultural Research Stations of five agro-climatic zones of Tamil Nadu viz., Coimbatore (WZ), Paiyur (NWZ), Virudhachalam (NEZ), Tindivanam (NEZ) and Kovilpatty (SZ). It has been observed that probability of wet week preceded by wet week [Pww] was in the order of Tindivanam followed by Virudhachalam followed by Paiyur followed by Coimbatore and Kovilpatty. In respect of probability of wet week preceded by dry week [PDW], it was comparatively lesser in Kovilpatty, Paiyur and Coimbatore and relatively more with Virudhachalam. There was no much difference between centres studied in respect of probability of dry week preceded by wet week [PWD] and probability of dry week preceded by dry week [PDD]. Based on the length of growing periods of different centres, different crops have been recommended for each agroclimatic zone.
23. R. K. MAITI, E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA, OSVALDO ERIC RAMIREZ AND V. P. SINGH [Dermal surface characteristics of leaves in medicinal plants as detective characters and its possible relation with their medicinal effects] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 517-522 (2002). Departamento de Quimica y Biologia Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, C. P. 72 820, Puebla, México (*e-mail : rmaiti @mail.udlap.mx)
ABSTRACT
The paper describes variability in epidermal leaf surface and stomatal characteristics of different species belonging to medicinal plants showing distinctive characters of each species. The form, number and other characteristics could help us to identify different species and their medicinal effects. The abundance of glands and oils may be related to the medicinal value of a particular plant species.
24. R. K. MAITI, R. A. PÉTRIZ OLVERA AND E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA [Medicinal plants of traditional use in highland valleys of Puebla and Tlaxcala, Mexico] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 523-527 (2002). Departamento de Química y Biología Universidad de las Américas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, C. P. 72 820, Puebla, México.
ABSTRACT
In Mexico, a large number of plants are used traditionally to alleviate diseases both in the cities and villages. This paper discusses the use of some medicinal plants in high lands of Puebla and Tlaxcala to treat different types of diseases. Common names, scientific names and methods of treatment are discussed on the basis of 10 years’ experience of the second author of the paper.
25. LAXMAN SINGH AND B. PAL [Effect of saline water and fertility levels on nutrient composition of Isabgol (Plantago ovata Forsk.)] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 528-531 (2002). Department of Agricultural Chemistry & Soil Science R. B. S. College, Bichpuri, Agra-283 105 (Uttar Pradesh), India.
ABSTRACT
A field experiment was conducted for two consecutive years during rabi season to study the effect of saline water and five levels of fertility on nutrient composition of Isabgol. The concentration of Ca and Mg in grain and straw decreased, while concentration of Na increased with application of water having EC 12 dSm-1 as compared to control. The fertility levels F2, F3, F4 and F5 significantly enhanced the concentration of Ca and Mg and declined Na concentration in grain and straw as compared to F1. Interaction effect results indicated that application of ECiw 12 dSm-1 water significantly enhanced the Na concentration, while fertility levels F2, F3, F4 and F5 lowered the concentration of Na in grain and straw as compared to F1. Fertility level F5, comprising 50 kg N+25 kg P2O5+25 kg K2O+20 kg ZnSO4 ha-1 at 12 dSm-1 proved most beneficial for declining the concentration of Na in grain and straw of Isabgol.
26. R. K. MAITI, A. BAQUIE LEAL, L. P. OLGUIN TÉLLEZ, E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA, P. WESCHE EBELING AND J. L. LORENZO TOVIA [Propagation, conservation and creation of a germplasm bank of Cactaceae at the seedling stage in a green house nursery] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 532-537 (2002). Cultivadores de Cactus de México Av. Independencia 1607, Tlaxcalancingo Puebla, C. P. 72 820, México
ABSTRACT
The paper discusses the formation of a germplasm bank of Cactaceae at the seedling stage in a green house, utilizing a very simple and efficient technique to induce germi-nation, and the propagation and conservation of a large number of species. These germ-plasm sources may be finally utilized to transplant the species back to their natural habitat, or may be used by the research scientists.
27. R. K. MAITI, AGNÉ BAQUIÉ DE LEAL, ALVARO SOTO VÉLEZ, P. WESCHE EBELING, E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA AND V. P. SINGH [Propagation and conservation of cacti (including endangered, rare and vulnerable) in high land valleys of Mexico] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 538-544 (2002). Departamento de Química y Biología Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, C. P. 72 820, Puebla, México (*e-mail : rmaiti@mail.udlap.mx)
ABSTRACT
In the present study, a technique was tested for the inducement of germination and seedling development of species of Cactaceae. The results showed that 12-24 h photoperiod and 28-30°C temperature induced germination and seedling development of majority of the species of Cactaceae. This, in fact, simulated the natural condition prevailing in cactus growing areas, where the cactus seeds being light fell and remained on the soil surface until a small shower. Then the seeds started imbibition, the white cotyledon was converted to green colour showing the conversion of protochlorophyll to chlorophyll. Probably light induced phytochrome to induce this change and helped in the development of seedlings.
28. R. K. MAITI, A. VÉLEZ SOTO, E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA, P. WESCHE EBELING AND OSVALDO ERIC RAMÍREZ BRAVO [Visnaga (Echinocactus platycanthus Link & Otto)-An endangered gigantic cactus : Morphology, distribution, germination and crop anagement] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 545-555 (2002). Departamento de Química y Biología Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, Puebla, C. P. 72 820, México.
ABSTRACT
The present paper discusses morphology, phenology, germination and propagation of Echinocactus platycanthus-an endangered species. An efficient technique has been developed for inducing germination and rapid propagation and conservation of the species both in crop nursery and its natural habitat.
29. R. K. MAITI, V. P. SINGH, A. BAQUIE LEAL, J. L. LORENZO TOVIA, E. SÁNCHEZ ARREOLA, P. WESCHE EBELING AND L. P. OLGUÍN TELLEZ [Evaluation and confirmation of a new technique for efficient germination, propagation and conservation of Cactaceae species and its transfer to green house for massive production of Cactaceae species] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 556-587 (2002). Departamento de Quimica y Biología Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa atarina Martír, Cholula, C. P. 72 820, Puebla, México (*e-mail: rmaiti@mail. udlap.mx).
ABSTRACT
This paper describes the results of the studies conducted for the evaluation and confirmation of a new technique as highly satisfactory for efficient germination, propagation and conservation of a large number of species of cactus including 14 species of Echinocereus, 16 species of Mammillaria, eight species of Ferocactus, nine species of Gymnocalycium and other 22 species. The technique utilized gave 70-100% germination in most of the species, of course some species gave less than 30% germination. The technique involved the sowing of seeds directly on surface of sterilized river sands in plastic pots (size 5 cm high x 4 cm) having holes at the bottom. These plastic pots were placed in water trays to supply water to the pots covered with thin transparent plastic film, and then these pots were kept in a growth chamber under 24 h light period and at 25-30°C. This technology was effectively implemented in a green house for massive production of cactus species with very highly satisfactory results (giving more than 90% germination in most of the species). Hence, this technique could be efficiently utilized for the massive production of cactus species in a green house. It is strongly recommended to utilize this simple technique in the propagation and conservation of a large number of cactus species including rare and endangered ones.
30. R. K. MAITI AND AGNÉS BAQUIE-LEAL [Advances in research on Mammillaria-A review] Crop Res. 24 (3) : 588-598 (2002). Departam-ento de Quimica y Biología Universidad de las Americas, Puebla, Santa Catarina Martir, Cholula, C. P. 72 820, Puebla, México (*e-mail : rmaiti@mail.udlap.mx)
ABSTRACT
The paper gives a short review on research advances of various aspects of Mammillaria such as distribution, morphology and taxonomy, cytology, propagation by in vitro tissue culture, germination, conservation and biotechnology. Mammillaria prefers to grow in abundance under nurse plants compared to bare lands; the taxonomy of the genus is complex. Several studies have been undertaken on cytology including chromosome number (2n=22), karyotype analysis, chiasma frequency and DNA content. Significant variations occur in DNA content amount with alteration of chiasma frequency and karyotype variations leading to genetic drift between the species. In vitro tissue culture has been adopted for propagation of Mammillaria, although some progress has been made in inducing germination of seeds. Genetic diversity of Mammillaria through DNA characterization and esterage and peroxidase polimorphism patterns have been analyzed in Mammillaria.