Branches Of Plants Research Articles

Enhanced Efficiency Organo-Mineral Nitrogen Fertilizer improves Yield and Quality of Red Amaranth

Crop production with increased yield in a sustainable manner requires less environmental impact. Therefore, a pot experiment was accomplished to investigate the effect of newly developed enhanced efficiency nitrogen (N) fertilizer and conventional N fertilizers on the growth, yield, nutritional quality, and N use efficiency of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor cv. BARI lalshak 1). All the pots were placed at the experimental pot-house of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University following a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replications. Brown coal-urea (BCU) was applied as enhanced efficiency N fertilizer following top dressing and basal application strategy where urea and diammonium phosphate were applied as conventional N fertilizer. All the N fertilizers were applied at five rates viz., 0, 50, 75, 100, 150 kg N ha ̶ 1. The growth parameters and biomass yield of red amaranth were significantly impacted by varying amounts and types of N fertilizers. The highest dry biomass yield was obtained at 150 kg N ha ̶ 1 whereas the highest number of branch plant ̶ 1 was found at 100 kg N ha ̶ 1. Again, the highest biomass N concentration was found at 100 kg N ha ̶ 1. Application of a higher dose of fertilizer showed the highest N concentration in the post-harvest soil. Overall, the growth parameters and biomass N concentration were the highest in BCU basal-treated soil. In contrast, BCU top-dressed soil showed a higher N concentration after harvest than all other treatments. Based on the overall findings, the use of higher-efficiency organo-mineral N fertilizer has the potential to serve as a viable substitute for traditional N fertilizers in the context of sustainable crop production with reduced environmental effects. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 5(1): 37-44, 2023

Strigolactone signalling inhibits trehalose 6-phosphate signalling independently of BRC1 to suppress shoot branching.

The phytohormone strigolactone (SL) inhibits shoot branching, whereas the signalling metabolite trehalose 6-phosphate (Tre6P) promotes branching. How Tre6P and SL signalling may interact and which molecular mechanisms might be involved remains largely unknown. Transcript profiling of Arabidopsis SL mutants revealed a cluster of differentially expressed genes highly enriched in the Tre6P pathway compared with wild-type (WT) plants or brc1 mutants. Tre6P-related genes were also differentially expressed in axillary buds of garden pea (Pisum sativum) SL mutants. Tre6P levels were elevated in the SL signalling mutant more axillary (max) growth 2 compared with other SL mutants or WT plants indicating a role of MAX2-dependent SL signalling in regulating Tre6P levels. A transgenic approach to increase Tre6P levels demonstrated that all SL mutant lines and brc1 flowered earlier, showing all of these mutants were responsive to Tre6P. Elevated Tre6P led to increased branching in WT plants but not in max2 and max4 mutants, indicating some dependency between the SL pathway and Tre6P regulation of shoot branching. By contrast, elevated Tre6P led to an enhanced branching phenotype in brc1 mutants indicating independence between BRC1 and Tre6P. A model is proposed whereby SL signalling represses branching via Tre6P and independently of the BRC1 pathway.

Association for Yield and Yield Related Traits in an RIL Population of Green Gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilezek)

Background: Green gram (Vigna radiata (L.) Wilczek), a significant annual legume, is a member of the family Fabaceae, subfamily Papilionoideae, and genus Vigna. Despite its importance, large-scale cultivation of green gram faces limitations due to various biotic and abiotic constraints. To address this challenge, our research is focused on the development of green gram genotypes with broader adaptability, enhanced genetic variability, and high-yielding potential. This involves a comprehensive study of the nature and magnitude of associations among yield and related traits to facilitate more effective and sustainable production practices. Methods: The present investigation was carried out at the experimental plots of Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), College farm, College of Agriculture, Hyderabad (TS). The present experiment was conducted to determine correlation and path analysis among morphological traits and their contribution towards yield among the F6 Recombinant inbred lines (RILs) in green gram. Results: Correlation estimate revealed that number of pods cluster-1, the Number of clusters plant-1, the Number of pods plant-1, Seed yield plant-1, plant height (cm), seed weight (g), and pod length (cm) showed a maximum direct contribution to seed yield both phenotypically and genotypically. Path analysis revealed that the parameters demonstrating a significant positive direct impact include days to 50% flowering, plant height (cm), number of branches plant-1 and number of clusters plant-1. The RILs for each character examined showed considerable variability. Conclusion: The green gram improvement program will benefit from a selection strategy that focuses on traits with a significant direct impact and a positive correlation with seed yield.

Trade-Offs in Plant Functional Traits Driven by Soil Changes under Urban Hardened Surfaces

The large-scale surface hardening has changed the urban environment and affected the normal growth of urban plants. However, it is still unclear how the urban hardened surface affects the functional urban plant traits. To explore whether the urban hardened surface affects the ecological strategies of plants by changing the urban soil properties and reflecting them on the plant traits, we studied the physical and chemical properties and plant functional traits of three different types of hardened surface in Shandong Province, China. Our results showed that the physical and chemical properties (soil bulk density, soil total porosity, capillary porosity, non-capillary porosity, soil moisture content, pH, organic carbon, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, total potassium, available phosphorus, and available potassium) of urban soils showed obvious differences with the increase of hardening strength. In this case, the plant functional traits (branch diameter, branch length, leaf thickness, branch weight, internode length, leaf dry weight, leafing intensity, leaf area, specific leaf area, and leaf dry matter content) were also differentiated to varying degrees. Meanwhile, there was a strong correlation among plant functional traits. Nevertheless, hardened surfaces break the quantitative relationship among functional traits of urban trees. They do not affect their stable correlation: as the hardening intensity gradually increases, its correlation weakens. In addition, plant functional traits have a significant response mechanism to soil physicochemical properties. There was a transformation of plant resource utilization strategy by changing plant functional traits to adapt to the hardened environment. Urban trees exhibit strong and rapid resource-allocation strategies. They are mainly reflected in the reduction of branch diameter, branch weight, leaf dry matter content, leaf area, mass ratio of branches and leaves, and the improvement of leafing intensity and leaf thickness. Overall, there were tight connections among urban soil properties, plant branches, and leaves functional properties. This finding reveals that urban trees can change their functional traits and the plasticity of their trait combinations under the background of hardened urban surface expansion, which is conducive to survival and growth.

The inclusion of cereal crops with maize and soyabean rotations impacts the morphology and phenology of Amaranthus tuberculatus

AbstractSimple crop rotations like maize and soyabean grown in succession often coincide with simple weed management tactics, resulting in weed infestations that are highly adapted to the conditions maintained for the selected crops. Amaranthus tuberculatus is a prominent weed species which possesses biological characteristics that allow it to persist in maize–soyabean rotations. Spring wheat and oats emerge earlier than A. tuberculatus and are grown in narrower rows than maize and soyabean, which may increase their competitive capability. A field study which measured morphological and phenological characteristics of three A. tuberculatus cohorts that emerged under fallow, maize, soyabean, spring wheat and oats was conducted to compare their competitive ability. Early emerged A. tuberculatus grew similarly in fallow, maize and soyabeans and grew to heights of >150 cm but was significantly reduced in spring wheat and oats, never exceeding 40 cm. Heights of the last emerged cohorts were more influenced by crop canopies never reaching 15 cm in spring wheat and oats compared to >70 cm in fallow. Early emerged A. tuberculatus canopy diameter and branches plant−1 were reduced by >80% in spring wheat and oats compared to fallow. Flowering was delayed in spring wheat and oats compared to fallow and seed production and biomass were reduced by 99% across cohorts. Growth suppression of A. tuberculatus, based on the findings, can be achieved under dense, competitive crop canopies such as in spring wheat and oats and these crops should be considered as additional crops in maize–soyabean rotations.

Extraction of Bioactive Compounds from Rubus Idaeus Bioresidues: A Full Screening on Phenolic Composition and Bioactive Potential

Abstract Purpose Rubus idaeus cultivation has boosted productivity due to its high nutritional value. In consequence, waste production increased. The discarded biomass, including leaves and aerial components, can be transformed into valuable functional ingredients for industrial applications, such as cosmetics. Studying their bioactivity potential is highly relevant. Methods According to the present idea, the research involved producing extracts from raspberry plant branches and leaves by employing four different techniques: aqueous decoction, aqueous infusion, hydroethanolic maceration, and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE). Subsequently, these compounds were screened for their bioactive potential, including antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and cytotoxic properties. Results The ultrasound-assisted extraction produced extracts rich in phenolic compounds, whereas the infusion and maceration methods resulted in higher flavonol contents. Among the identified phenolic compounds, hydrolyzable tannins, particularly galloyl-bis-HHDP-glucose, were the most dominant ones. Regarding antioxidant potential, the decoction extract was the strongest, while the infusion showed the greatest potential for inhibiting lipid peroxidation. The UAE extract was found to be highly effective as an antibacterial agent. Both infusion and UAE extracts demonstrated the highest anti-inflammatory potential. Conclusion The combination of these results highlights the sample’s bioactive potential and the importance of exploiting bioresidues as unique, sustainable candidates for industrial applications.

Phosphorus High-rate application through band placement improved cotton productivity under arid climate

The plant-available soil phosphorus rate and methods for applying phosphatic fertilizer and soil P-fixation capacity are critical factors for lower cotton productivity in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. Hence, a two-year study was conducted in Central Cotton Research Institute (CCRI), Multan, Pakistan, to examine the effects of various P rates and application methods on cotton crop output during the growing seasons of 2014 and 2015. Phosphorus was applied in four rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg ha−1 P2O5) using broadcast, band application, and fertigation methods. Results indicated that the impact of P rates was statistically significant on plant height, the number of nodes, monopodial and sympodial branches, leaf area index, harvest index, and seed cotton yield. The greater P application (120 kg P2O5 ha−1) had a better effect on cotton productivity than the lower application rates (0, 40, and 80 kg P2O5 ha−1). The band application responded better on nodes plant−1, sympodial branches plant−1, boll weight, leaf area index, lint yield, and harvest during the growing season 2015. Therefore, by adopting the band application coupled with 120 kg P2O5 ha−1 rather than the conventional method of broadcast, productivity of cotton crops could be increased.

Neem-Extract Formulation onHypothenemus hampeiPreference and Performance in Arabica Coffee Fruits and Artificial Diet.

Coffee berry borer (CBB) Hypothenemus hampei is a major biotic threat to coffee production worldwide. Studies have reported negative effects on CBB by oil-based formulations of neem (Azadirachta indica), but little information is available for other neem-extract formulations. This study evaluated CBB preference and performance in arabica coffee fruits and artificial diet treated with a neem-extract formulation (Openeem Plus®) in the field and laboratory conditions. Field experiments were performed using CBB females artificially infested in cherry or green coffee fruits confined in voile-fabric cages tied to branches of neem-treated and control plants, recording the adult mortality and offspring production. Dual-choice and no-choice bioassays assessed CBB preference and development in fruits and artificial diet treated with the neem extract compared to controls in the laboratory, respectively. As main results obtained in the field and laboratory experiments, the neem extract significantly reduced CBB oviposition in both cherry and green fruits, as well as in artificial diet compared to controls. However, the botanical product did not affect CBB adult survival and preference in the laboratory bioassays. The neem extract is promising for use in pest management strategies in sustainable arabica coffee crops by reducing CBB oviposition and offspring. These effects can contribute to lowering the pest population buildup along the crop cycle and damage potential to coffee production.

Impact of Black Soldier Fly Larval Frass on Growth and Yield of Cluster Bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.)

Hermetia illucens L., commonly known as the Black Soldier Fly (BSF), has garnered global attention for its role in insect farming due to its efficient conversion of organic waste into nutrient-rich larval biomass, with frass as a primary byproduct. This study aimed to explore the potential of BSF larval frass (BSFF) as an organic fertilizer for agricultural production, especially evaluating its performance compared to vermicompost on cluster bean growth and yield under field conditions during rabi season at Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Using a completely randomized block design with eight treatments, various growth parameters such as plant height, number of branches plant-1 and dry matter production, along with yield attributes including number of clusters plant-1, number of pods cluster-1, number of pods plant-1, pod weight (g), pod yield plant-1 and yield (t ha-1) were assessed. Significant differences were observed among treatments, the highest growth and yield parameters were recorded in application of 25 % N through BSF frass + 75 % RDN (T5) and it was on par with 25 % N through vermicompost + 75 % RDN (T6), 50 % N through BSF frass + 50 % RDN (T7), 50 % N through vermicompost + 50 % RDN (T8) and RDF (T2) compared to 100 % N through BSF frass (T3), 100 % N through vermicompost (T4) and control (T1).These treatments resulted in yield increase of 35.7 % (T5), 24.7 % (T6), 23.4 % (T7), 22 %(T8) and 24.36 % (T2) respectively, compared to the control. These findings indicated that BSF larval frass holds promise as a sustainable alternative to vermicompost for enhancing cluster bean production, offering potential benefits for agricultural sustainability and organic waste management.

Effect of Boron, Zinc and Sulphur on Growth, Yield and Mineral Composition of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) in Alluvial Soil

The present study determining the effect of Boron, Zinc and Sulphur on Growth, Yield and Mineral Composition of Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) in alluvial soil. A pot experiment was conducted during kharif 2023 at Net House in Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, B.H.U, Varanasi, U.P. to study the effect of Boron, Zinc and Sulphur on growth, yield and quality of black gram (Vigna mungo L.). The experiment was laid-out in a Completely Randomized design (CRD) with eight treatments, each having three replications. Dry matter accumulation, Number of branches plant-1, test weight, grain yield kg ha-1, straw yield kg ha-1, harvest index significantly affected due to various treatments. T7 (B +Zn+ S) recorded most pronounced improvements.

Effect of Different Sowing Dates and Establishment Methods on Growth, Yield and Economics of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

Adaption of Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed System (FIRBS) and date of seeding are one of the important input for crop production particularly for rabi crop. Early planting through raised bed of mustard can compensate the late planting at least 10-15 days. Under this circumstance the use of raised bed planter along with timely sowing of mustard can produce higher yield. An adaptive research trail was conducted during the rabi season of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at farmer’s field in Jamui district to study the effect of different sowing dates and establishment methods of mustard crop. The trail was conducted in a factorial randomized block design with two method of sowing and three dates of sowing. The growth characters like plant height, leaf area index, no. of primary branches plant-1, no. of secondary branch plant-1, no. of silique plant-1, no. of seeds silique-1 were recorded. Test weight, grain and straw yield was influenced significantly due to different sowing dates and sowing methods. Higher plant height at harvest stage (160 cm), leaf area index at 60 DAS (3.3), no. of primary branches plant-1 (4.0), no. of secondary branch plant-1 (7.8), no. of silique plant-1 (292.4), no. of seeds silique-1 (9.7), test weight (3.8), grain (10.1 q ha-1) and straw yield (22.4 q ha-1) were recorded when the crop was sown on 05th November during both years. Whereas the mustard crop sown on FIRBS recorded highest growth attributes, yield components and seed yield (12.5 q ha-1) as compared to conventional method. Highest benefit cost ratio was calculated with (FIRBS) Furrow Irrigated Raised Bed system (2.0) as compared to all other treatments.

Effect of Different Organic Manures along with Microbial Consortia on Growth and Yield of Kalmegh (Andrographis paniculata Nees.)

Kalmegh has wide range of medicinal and pharmacological applications. The active ingredient andrographolide is important bioprotectant. Organically grown medicinal plants fetch premium price in the market. Hence the need to explore different manures along with microbial consortia to improve its yield is essential. The experiment was laid out in RCBD with thirteen treatments. Different organic manures and combinations with neem cake were taken as treatments with three replications. Significantly higher plant height was observed in treatment - 100% RDF through vermicompost. Maximum plant spread was recorded in the treatment - 50% RDF through FYM + 50% RDF through neem cake + microbial consortia. Application of sheep manure + neem cake resulted in higher number of branches plant-1, higher number of leaves plant-1, highest fresh weight, highest dry weight, highest root to shoot ratio, highest fresh herbage yield and highest B:C ratio. So, sheep manure + neem cake was found best compared to other manures and combinations.

Effect of plant growth regulators and fertilizers on the growth and yield of black gram (Vigna mungo L.)

A field experiment was carried out to assess the effect of foliar application of plant growth regulators and fertilizers on the growth, yield attributes and grain yield of black gram. The results revealed that the application of RDF + DAP 2% + NAA 60 ppm recorded significantly higher growth attributes viz., plant height (47.87 cm), number of leaves plant-1 (34.22), number of primary branches plant-1 (7.06) and number of secondary branches plant-1 (19.63), as well as yield and yield attributes including number of pods plant-1 (34.39), pod length (6.82 cm), number of grains pod-1 (6.61), test weight (38.67g), grain yield (1234.19 kg ha-1) and straw yield (3640 kg ha-1). The net returns and benefitcost ratio (Rs. 75667.66 and 2.17, respectively) were also recorded substantially higher with the application of RDF + DAP 2% + NAA 60 ppm over the rest of the treatments. Based on the present findings it was concluded that the application of RDF + DAP 2% + NAA 60 ppm in black gram crop is profitable.

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Characterization of the D27 Gene Family of Capsicum annuum L.

As a crucial member of the gene family involved in the biosynthesis of strigolactones, D27 plays an important regulatory role in plant branching and root development, which is essential for field management and yield increase in peppers (Capsicum annuum L.). To comprehensively understand the characteristics of the pepper D27 gene family, we identified three CaD27 genes. By analyzing their physicochemical properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, promoters, and expression patterns in different tissues, the characteristics of the CaD27 gene family were revealed. The research results showed that these three CaD27 genes are located in three different chromosomes. Evolutionary analysis divided the members of CaD27 into three groups, and gene collinearity analysis did not find any duplicates, indicating the diversity and non-redundancy of the CaD27 gene family members. In addition, we identified and classified cis-elements in the promoter regions of CaD27 genes, with a relatively high proportion related to light and plant hormone responses. Expression pattern analysis showed that CaD27.1 is expressed in leaves, while CaD27.2 is expressed in roots, indicating tissue specificity. Furthermore, protein interaction predictions revealed an interaction between D27.2 and CCD7. This study provided important insights into the function and regulatory mechanisms of the CaD27 gene family and the role of strigolactones in plant growth and development.

The Effects of Different Seed Rates on Yield and Economical Feasibility of Mustard (Brassica juncea)

Rapeseed-mustard plant (Brassica juncea)” is any one of several plant species in the genera Brassica, Rhamphospermum and Sinapis in the family Brassicaceae (the mustard family). Mustard seed is used as a spice. Grinding and mixing the seeds with water, vinegar, or other liquids creates the yellow condiment known as prepared mustard. The seeds can also be pressed to make mustard oil, and the edible leaves can be eaten as mustard greens. Many vegetables are cultivated varieties of mustard plants; domestication may have begun 6,000 years ago. Mustard is a popular condiment, commonly it is a popular condiment made from the seeds of the mustard plant. It can be prepared using white/yellow mustard, brown mustard, or black mustard seeds mixed with liquids, salt, and other flavorings to create a paste or sauce. Mustard pairs well with meats, vegetables, and cheeses and is commonly used in sandwiches, hamburgers, and hot dogs. It is also used in dressings, glazes, sauces, and marinades around the world. The word "mustard" has origins in Latin and French, and archaeological evidence suggests mustard cultivation dates back to ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley. Mustard has a long history of culinary use, with the Romans likely being the first to experiment with mustard as a condiment. In France, Dijon became a renowned center for mustard making, and Dijon mustard is still highly regarded today. Mustard has various uses, such as a condiment, an ingredient in sauces and soups, and an emulsifier in dishes like Hollandaise sauce. The flavor and heat of mustard depend on the seed type and preparation method. Mustard offers nutritional benefits such as vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Mustard plants is used for producing edible oil for human, oil-cake for feeding animals, sauce, spices, medicine and other purposes in Afghanistan. Mustard has a long history in Afghanistan and is mostly cultivated in the Northern provinces such as Baghlan, Kunduz, Thakkar, Samangan and etc. For the above-mentioned importance of Mustard, we decided to apply a research on seed rates to fine the desirable seed rate of mustard crop for Afghan Mustard growers. Seed rates are one of the important factors, which the suitable seed rates prevent from the economic loss of farmers. This research accomplished in the title of “The effects of different seed rates on yield and growth components of mustard (Brassica juncea)” The research was designed in a complete block design (RCBD) with three replications and five treatments. The data were collected from growth parameters such as plant height, number branches plant-1, number of leaves plant-1 as well as yield parameters such as number of pods plan-1, number of seeds plant-1, seed yield kg ha-1, dry matter kg ha-1 and biological yield kg ha-1. The collected data were analyzed using excel, OPSTAT online testing program, statistical tool for agricultural research (STAR). Based on the statistical analysis the significant differences were observed in all parameters at (P≥0.05. Least significant difference (LSD) was used to compare treatments. A positive correlation was also recognized between growth and yield parameters. Mostly treatment three (15 cm) space between rows performed high influence then the other treatments. We recommend much more research to find the best space between plant to plant and row to row. For the moment the farmers of Afghanistan can use the result of this research on their field for obtaining high yield from Mustard.

Effect of Transient Waterlogging Stress on Growth, Physiology and Yield of Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) in Semi-Arid Region

Cowpea cultivation during rainy season is highly affected by the waterlogging stress due to unpredicted high-intensity rains. The studies on assessment of waterlogging effect on different growth stages of cowpea are necessary for planning mitigation strategies. Hence study was conducted during kharif (June to September) 2022 under factorial randomized block design (FRCBD) set up. The first factor consisted of seven waterlogging durations (3 to 15 days), and second factor was three growth stages of cowpea (15 DAE; Days after emergence, 25 DAE and at 50% flowering). The results revealed that regardless of growth stages, growth and yield attributes were drastically decreased with increased duration of waterlogging. The highest plant height (25.07 cm), number of branches plant–1 (5.33) and leaf area (205.27 cm2 plant–1), and number of pods plant–1 (4.27), pod length (15.24 cm), number of seeds pod–1 (14.27), grain (6.27 g plant–1) and haulm yield (15.62 g plant–1) were recorded with 3 days of waterlogging, whereas lowest values were reported with 15 days of waterlogging. Regarding growth stages, highest growth, and yield attributes were recorded with waterlogging during 50% flowering, followed by 25 DAE and 15 DAE. Moreover, the correlation study indicated that physiological parameters such as leaf protein content (r = 0.95) and Normalized Difference Vegetation Index NDVI (r = 0.97) were positively related to grain yield. It was found that, cowpea is sensitive to high-intensity waterlogging (beyond 3–5 days) especially during the early growth stage (15 DAE).

The Psathyrostachys juncea DWARF27 gene encodes an all-trans-/9-cis-beta-carotene isomerase in the control of plant branches in Arabidopsis thaliana by strigolactones.

Strigolactones (SLs), carotenoid-derived plant hormones, govern the growth and development of both monocotyledonous and dicotyledonous plants. DWARF27 (D27), a plastid-targeted protein located at the initiation site of the core pathway in SL synthesis, plays a crucial role in regulating plant tillering (branching). In rice (Oryza sativa) and wheat (Triticum aestivum), OsD27 and TaD27-B proteins modulate the number of plant tillers by participating in SL biosynthesis. Similarly, AtD27 in Arabidopsis thaliana is required for SL production and has a significant impact on phenotypic changes related to branching. At the same time, TaD27 in wheat has been confirmed as a functional orthologue of AtD27 in Arabidopsis, and both Psathyrostachys juncea and wheat belong to the Triticeae, so we speculate that PjD27 gene may also have the same function as AtD27 in Arabidopsis. In this study, we initially screened the PjD27 gene significantly associated with tillering regulation through transcriptome data analysis and subsequently validated its expression levels using qRT-PCR analysis. Furthermore, we conducted phylogenetic analysis using amino acid sequences from 41 species, including P. juncea, to identify closely related species of P. juncea. Here, we analyze the conservation of D27 protein among P. juncea, rice, wheat, and Arabidopsis and provide preliminary evidence suggesting that PjD27 protein is an orthologue of D27 protein in Arabidopsis. Through reverse genetics, we demonstrate the crucial role of PjD27 in regulating plant branching, establishing it as a functional orthologue of D27 in Arabidopsis. Furthermore, following transient expression in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum), we demonstrate that the subcellular location of the PjD27 protein is consistent with the cellular location of TaD27-B in wheat. Quantitative analysis of SLs shows that PjD27 is a key gene regulating tillering (branching) by participating in SL biosynthesis. By elucidating the function of the PjD27 gene, our findings provide valuable genetic resources for new germplasm creation and improving grain yield in P. juncea.

Updating the Species Diversity of Pestalotioid Fungi: Four New Species of Neopestalotiopsis and Pestalotiopsis.

Pestalotioid fungi are associated with a wide variety of plants around the world as pathogens, endophytes, and saprobes. In this study, diseased leaves and branches of plants were collected from Guizhou and Sichuan in China. Here, the fungal isolates were identified based on a phylogenetic analysis of the internal transcribed spacer region (ITS), the translation elongation factor 1-alpha (tef1-α) and the beta-tubulin (tub2) of ribosomal DNA, and the morphological characteristics. Ten Neopestalotiopsis isolates and two Pestalotiopsis isolates were obtained, and these isolates were further confirmed as four novel species (N. acericola, N. cercidicola, N. phoenicis, and P. guiyangensis) and one known species, N. concentrica.

Performance of Seaweed Extracts on Yield and Quality of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) with Organic Input Management

A field experiment was conducted during the rabi season of the two consecutive years of 2020-21 and 2021-22 at the Horticultural Research Station, Mondouri, BCKV, Nadia, West Bengal to examine the effectiveness of seaweed extract on yield and quality of black cumin. The treatments were composed of 9 different doses of seaweed extract granule soil application, liquid foliar spray and control. Among the 10 treatments, T5 (e.g., SWE granules @4kg ha-1) recorded the highest average plant height of 29.80 cm, 59.45cm and 73.30 cm, at 60, 90 and 120 DAS and the highest number of primary branches (7,10) and secondary branches (24,10) plant-1 respectively at 120 DAS. Similarly, the highest seed yield of 536 kg ha-1 along with different yield attributing characters like the highest mean fresh pod weight (1.40g), dry pod weight (0.36 g) and pod diameter (0.91cm), seed yield plant-1 (2.76g) and 1000 seed weight (2.45 g) were recorded under the treatment T5. The highest B: C ratio (1.97) and highest net return (Rs.52816 ha-1) were also recorded under T5 during the same period of experimentation. From the above experiment, it may be concluded that the soil application of Seaweed Extract in granular formulation @ 4kg ha-1 has a positive influence on growth, yield and quality of black cumin.

Sublethal dosing exposure risk of kochia (Bassia scoparia (L.) A.J. Scott) to carfentrazone-ethyl

Kochia is a troublesome, multiple herbicide-resistant tumbleweed which infests Prairie field crops. Kochia has developed resistance to systemic, foliar-applied herbicides from groups 2, 4, and 9, leaving only contact herbicides for post-emergence control. Group 14 chemistry is an important mode of action for resistance management. Weed staging considerations are important as recurrent sub-lethal herbicide exposure can increase risk of nontarget site resistance evolution. The study objective was to evaluate loss-of-control and estimate sublethal dosing exposure risk (SLDER) with a contact-type herbicide (carfentrazone-ethyl) based on initial kochia height, leaf number, and branch number. The SLDER from a single application to a single plant was conceptualized to increase due to escaping plant “volume” or immediate flowering. Kochia was only consistently controlled (100% injury) when dosed at ≤5 cm in height. The estimated maximum size for treated kochia was 21 cm in height, 18 branches plant−1, and the maximum accumulated biomass was between 2.6 and 5.1 g plant−1 for models developed using the initial plant height, branch number, or leaf number as predictors. These estimates represent the largest plant escapes, which would be associated with 100% risk through vegetative considerations into SLDER. Kochia plant size for a 5% risk scenario using the SLDER model was 4 cm in height, 0 branches plant−1, and 11 leaves plant−1 when carfentrazone-ethyl was applied at the labeled dosing. Caution is advised when spraying kochia above 5 cm as incorrect staging may lead to sublethal exposure, escape, reproduction, and escalated risk of nontarget site resistance evolution.