Fimbristylis Miliacea Research Articles

Environment-friendly Synthesis of AgNPs from Fimbristylis miliacea Flower Extract: Characterization and its Applications as an Antioxidant Activity, Anticancerous Activity and in the Reduction of 4-Nitrophenol

Background: Silver metal is useful in a variety of fields. Different silver salts exhibit good application in the organic transformation. The use of a green methodology in AgNPs preparation has gained interest of young researchers. Plant systems are employed in the green approach of preparing AgNPs, serving as both a stabilizing and reducing agent. Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) made from silver salts exhibit a variety of biological activities and may be useful in organic transformation. Method: AgNPs were synthesized with the use of flower extract from Fimbristylis miliacea, which acts as a stabilizing and reducing agent. Result: Fimbristylis miliacea flower extract is used as a reducing and stabilising agent for preparation of AgNPs. These synthesised AgNPs were characterised by using FTIR, XRD, FESEM/ EDS, HR-TEM, TGA, and ICP-AES. Fimbristylis milliciea flower extract was subjected to FTIR and HR-LCMS analysis in order to identify the phytoconstituents that are responsible for the reduction of AgNO3. The HR-TEM shows particle size between 8.98434+0.69669nm and 19.07464+1.4384nm. The size of AgNPs determined by using HR-TEM shows good agreement with XRD particle size. The synthesized AgNPs show excellent antioxidant properties with IC50=56.45 μg/mL. The present study confers significant cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-231 human breast cancer cell line culture (IC50= 61.97 μg/ml). The AgNPs show a faster reduction of 4-nitrophenol. Conclusion: In conclusion, we have prepared AgNPs by using Fimbristylis miliacea flower extract. The study further concludes that green synthesis of AgNPs has many advantages as compared to chemical methods, such as cost-effectiveness, rapid, and environment-friendly methods. The results indicated that the biosynthesized AgNPs have significant cytotoxic activity against the MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell line. Further, it indicates that biosynthesized AgNPs can be a potential alternative agent for human breast cancer therapy. The cytotoxic potential can be used for treatments and provides a new method to develop molecules for cancer therapy. The catalytic activity of AgNPs was examined by using the reduction of 4-nitrophenol. It shows that the reduction of 4-nitrophenol in 6 minutes is confirmed by using 1H NMR analysis.

Ecology and Management of Sedges in Direct-seeded Rice: A Review

Sedges, resilient weeds from the Cyperaceae family, pose a significant threat to direct-seeded rice cultivation due to their perennial nature and robust propagules, which endure harsh conditions. Their emergence, growth and seed production during fallow periods contribute significantly to seed banks, making their management challenging compared to other weed types. Water levels in paddy fields dictate weed composition, favouring sedges and grasses under saturated conditions but shifting to grass weeds during cropping seasons, influenced by factors like soil conditions and rainfall. Managing sedges requires a multifaceted approach due to their perennial hydrophilic and pro-alkaline nature with extensive propagules. Sedges possessing strong root system with morphological similarities necessitate continuous weed control throughout the cropping season during the critical period ranging from 15 to 60 days after sowing for wet and dry direct-seeded rice. Effective weed management practices proved crucial for minimizing yield losses caused by infestation of Cyperus difformis, Fimbristylis miliacea and Schoenoplectus juncoides by many researchers. Various methods, including cultural practices like stale seedbeds, physical methods like summer tillage, biological approaches such as integrating poultry and chemical interventions like herbicide application, are utilized for sedge management in rice fields. Higher efficacy of ethoxysulfuron for management of majority of sedge weeds in rice has been reported by many workers. However, relying on a single strategy is insufficient to keep sedge populations below the threshold, necessitating a comprehensive and adaptable approach to weed control in rice cultivation.

Germination Ecology and Ecology-based Management of Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) in Lowland Rice: A Review

Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl, commonly referred to as globe fringerush, member of the Cyperaceae family, is a significant and widespread sedge weed in rice cultivation. This C4 plant is characterized by its tall, annual or perennial growth, featuring a fibrous root system and smooth stems, often producing vigorous tillers reaching heights of 80-90 cm. Seedlings of F. miliacea typically emerge shortly after rice is planted, with flowering occurring within about a month, capable of producing a second generation within the same growing season. Found extensively throughout tropical regions, especially in lowlands, F. miliacea thrives in environments such as rice fields, shallow water along ditches, and streams, notably prevalent across South and Southeast Asia, as well as Australia. This weed presents enduring challenges across diverse agro-ecosystems due to its various ecotypes, prolific seed production, rapid germination, vigorous growth, strong competitive abilities and allelopathic interactions. Temperature is a critical factor significantly influencing seed germination of F. miliacea which exhibits non-deep physiological dormancy. Light is essential for the germination of this weed showing positive photoblastic behaviour. F. miliacea thrives in saturated soils but fails to emerge from depths greater than one cm, emphasizing the importance of shallow tillage to manage weed emergence effectively. Effective weed management hinges on a deep understanding of the factors that favour its emergence and establishment. Adopting the germination ecology-based practices such as tillage, stale seed bed preparation, optimal planting density, water management and nutrient management can significantly improve the management of F. miliacea.

Optimizing bioherbicide application timing and plant spacing to manage weed growth in rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivation

Weed management is crucial for successful rice cultivation. Bioherbicides derived from cogon grass extract offer a promising solution for weed control. Additionally, optimizing plant spacing has been recognized as an effective method to suppress weed growth. Thus, this study aims to investigate the impact of cogon grass extract application timing and plant spacing on weed growth in rice cultivation. The study was conducted from October 2022 to February 2023 in the Special Region of Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The study was 3 × 2 factorial and arranged in a randomized completely block design (RCBD). The first factor was the bioherbicide application timing: control (no application), three days before planting, and at the time of planting. The second factor was plant spacing: 15 × 15 and 25 × 25 cm. In total, there were six treatment combinations and three replications (replications as blocks). The research results indicated the application timing of bioherbicide did not significant effect on the growth of weed and rice, as well as the grain dry weight. Fimbristylis miliacea was obtained as the dominant weed species. Bioherbicide application at the time of planting could alter the composition of weed species compared to the control in plant spacing of 15 × 15 cm. Furthermore, the plant spacing of 25 × 25 cm resulted in higher grain and weed dry weight (19.40 g/clump and 45.00 g/0.25 m2) compared to 15 × 15 cm (12.92 g/clump and 23.04 g/0.25 m2). On the contrary, the grain dry weight per hectare was higher in 15 × 15 cm (5.74 t/ha) than in 25 × 25 cm (3.10 t/ha). The research findings indicate that closer plant spacing can suppress weed growth and increase the grain dry weight per hectare compared to wider plant spacing. We recommend that the use of cogon grass extract dosage needs to be increased above 50 L/ha.

Pengaruh Ekstrak Babawangan (Fimbristylis miliacea) pada Perkecambahan dan Pertumbuhan Bobontengan (Leptochloa chinensis)

Chinese sprangletop (Leptochloa chinensis) reproduces sexually and vegetatively. This weed has a lot of seeds, is easy to grow, and adapts well to dry and wet land. Proper control is needed. Hoorahgrass extract can be used as an alternative to control weeds. Hoorahgrass (Fimbristylis miliacea) is a group of enigmatic weeds that contain allelochemical compounds. The aims of this research were to determine the effect of the source and concentration of hoorahgrass extract on the germination and growth of chinese sprangletop. This research carried out at the Greenhouse Integrated Field Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung from December 2022 to February 2023 using a Randomized Block Design (RAK) with 2 factors and 4 replications. The first factor was the extract component of hoorahgrass root (A1), shoot (A2) and mixture (A3), and the second factor was hoorahgrass with a concentration of 0% (B0) or (control), 2.5% (B1), 5% (B2 ), 7.5% (B3), 10% (B4). The data obtained were analyzed using analysis of variance, and first tested for homogeneity of variance using the Bartlett test, followed by the least significant difference test (LSD) at the 5% level. Based on the research results, hoorahgrass extract concentration of 5 to 10% was most effective in reducing seed germination rate, seed germination speed, chinese sprangletop root length and total dry weight. A concentration of 10% was most effective for reducing the height of chinese sprangletop. Keyword: Fimbrisylis, concentration, extract, bioherbicide, Leptochloa

Weed seedbank as influenced by tillage and herbicide in direct seeded rice‐mustard cropping sequence in lateritic soil of eastern India

AbstractThe above‐ground community dynamics of weeds represent the soil weed seedbank in an agro‐ecosystem. Hence, understanding the seedbank will offer an idea for future weed management tactics. We aimed to determine the density of weed seedbank and emergence of major weeds in direct seeded rice (DSR) (Oryza sativa L.)—mustard (Brassica campestris L. var. yellow sarson) cropping sequence under varied tillage and herbicide combinations. The present study on weed seedbank was conducted using seedling emergence method after collecting the soils at the harvest of mustard at the completion of 2 years field experimentation. The experiment was conducted in split‐plot design with two tillage practices [zero tillage (ZT) and conventional tillage (CT)] in main plot and eight weed management practices in DSR [oxadiargyl followed by (fb) bispyribac‐sodium, penoxsulam + cyhalofop‐butyl, oxadiargyl fb penoxsulam + cyhalofop‐butyl, fenoxaprop‐p‐ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, oxadiargyl fb fenoxaprop‐p‐ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, pendimethalin fb bispyribac‐sodium, unweeded control, and weed free check] as subplot. The carry‐over effect of tillage and weed management practices were recorded in mustard crop. Seed emergence study revealed that ZT reduced the emergence of grassy weeds (by 13.7%) and total weed emergence (19.5%) in comparison to the CT (p < 0.05). However, emergence of broadleaf weeds was 24.5% higher in ZT than in CT. The higher infestation was recorded for Ludwigia parviflora (Jacq.) Raven under penoxsulam + cyhalofop‐butyl, fenoxaprop‐p‐ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, Cyperus iria (L.) under fenoxaprop‐p‐ethyl + ethoxysulfuron, and Eleusine indica (L.) Gaertn. under pendimethalin fb bispyribac‐sodium, oxadiargyl fb bispyribac‐sodium. Sole application of post‐emergence (POE) herbicide decreased the total weed emergence by 22.2%–28.1% than unweeded control (p < 0.05). Whereas, sequential application of PRE + POE herbicides decreased the total weed emergence by 32.8%–36.9% than unweeded control (p < 0.05). Notably, sedge weeds such as Cyperus iria (L.) and Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl were lower in ZT than in CT under herbicide treated plots (by 66.6%–84.3%) than unweeded control. Thus, ZT with oxadiargyl 90 g a.i. ha−1 fb fenoxaprop‐p‐ethyl + ethoxysulfuron (90 + 15 g a.i. ha−1) as tank‐mix can be effectively used to lower the weed seedbank density vis‐à‐vis managing complex weed flora in DSR and rice‐mustard cropping sequence.

Identification of Phytochemicals in Cleome rutidosperma DC. Methanol Extract and Evaluate its Efficacy on Some Common Rice Field Weeds

Screening different plant species for herbicidal activity and identifying new allelochemicals with novel structures and phytochemical activity could be promising candidates for reducing the negative consequences of chemical herbicides. Our study aims to investigate the allelopathic substance(s) and herbicidal efficacy of Cleome rutidosperma DC. on rice filed weeds in the lab and glasshouse. The phytochemical constituents of the methanol extract of Cleome rutidosperma were analyzed by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization quadrupole time-of-flight mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-QTOF-MS). The allelopathic effect of C. rutidosperma has been further studied on the germination and early development of five common rice field weeds: Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv., Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl, Oryza sativa f. spontanea Roshev., Leptochloa chinensis (L.) Nees, and Cyperus iria L. The seed germination and growth of tested weeds under lab and glasshouse conditions were compared to three concentrations of C. rutidosperma methanol extract at 2.5, 5, and 10% with the control (only distilled water). The results indicated the presence of 64 and 10 known chemicals using positive and negative ionization techniques, the majority of which were toxic. The inhibitory effect of C. rutidosperma was stronger in the lab than in the glasshouse. No seed germination of the tested species was observed when 10% C. rutidosperma extract was applied. The photosynthesis rate of C. iria exhibited a higher reduction (70.56%) compared to other species at higher doses (10%) of C. rutidosperma. These findings demonstrated that C. rutidosperma is a significant source of phytotoxic components and can be used to develop future bio-herbicides. The outcome of this study can be employed in the organic management of weeds and reduce our heavy reliance on synthetic herbicides.

Effect of planting geometry and weed-management practices on yield of scented rice (Oryza sativa) varieties

A field experiment was conducted at the Shaheed Gundadhur College of Agriculture and Research Station, of the Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidhyalaya, Jagdalpur, Chhattisgarh during rainy season (Kharif) of 2019, to evaluate the effect of planting geometry and weed-management practices in transplanted scented rice varieties. Treatments consisting combination of 2 varieties, 2 planting geometry and 4 weed management practices were replicated thrice in a split-split plot design. The dominant weeds in transplanted rice were: Ludwigia peploides (Kunth) P.H. Raven., Spilanthes acmella (L.) C.B. Clarke ex Hook. f., Echinochloa colona L., Cyperus difformis L., Cyperus iria L., Commelina benghalensis L. and Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl. Significantly lowest population of different weed species, and the highest grain and straw yields, and harvest index were found with variety, ‘Tarunbhog Selection 1’ while the maximum test weight was observed with ‘Dubraj Selection 1’. The planting geometry of 20 cm × 20 cm recorded the minimum weed population and the highest yield and benefit cost ratio. Application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10% WP @ 20 g/ha at 3 Days after transplanting (DAT) + 1 hand weeding (HW) at 25 DAT was found the most effective for broad-spectrum weed control and increased the rice grain yield. The highest net returns and benefit cost were recorded with the pre-emergence application of pyrazosulfuron ethyl 10 % WP @ 20 g/ha.

Crop establishment methods and herbicide mixtures induced weed dynamics, productivity, and profitability of summer rice

Rice farmers face challenges in achieving higher yield and profit during the summer season due to improper establishment and weed control. To address this, a study was conducted to assess the effects of herbicide combinations on the growth and yield of CR Dhan 206 (Gopinath), a high-yielding rice variety. The research took place from January to May 2022 at the PG Research Farm of M. S. Swaminathan School of Agriculture, Centurion University of Technology and Management, Paralakhemundi, Odisha. The experiment followed a split plot design with two main plots (transplanted rice and wet seeded rice) and five subplots (fenoxaprop-p-ethyl + ethoxysulfuron (Tank mix) @ (50+15) g ha-1 at 18 days after transplanting/sowing (DAT/S); triafamone + ethoxysulfuron (Ready mix) @ (45+22.5) g ha-1 at 12 DAT/S; pretilachlor + bensulfuron-methyl (Ready mix) @ (600+60) g ha-1 at 4 DAT/S; weed-free (Hand weeding at 20,40,60 DAT/S); and weedy check) replicated thrice. The dominant weeds observed were Echinochloa colona, Leptochloa chinensis, Cyanotis auxiliaris, Physalis minima, Ludwigia parviflora, Cyperus iria, and Fimbristylis miliacea. Results indicated that the establishment methods did not significantly affect crop growth, yield attributes, crop yield, and weed infestation. However, the application of triafamone + ethoxysulfuron in both transplanted and wet seeded rice demonstrated superior growth, yield, weed control, and comparable results to the weed-free check. The combination of wet seeded rice and triafamone + ethoxysulfuron showed the highest net return and benefit-cost ratio, suggesting its recommendation for effective weed control and profitability in rice farming in summer season.

Field assessment of Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) residues for allelopathic effects on both crops and weeds

An experiment was conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the period from August 2020-June, 2021 to assess the allelopathic effects of the Echinochloa crusgalli residues on both rice yields and weeds therein. The experiment consisted five treatments of doses of residues of E. crusgalli viz. i) no residues (control), ii) E. crusgalli residues @ 0.7 t ha-1, iii) E. crusgalli residues @ 1.4 t ha-1, iv) E. crusgalli residues @ 2.1 t ha-1, v) farmers practice (two hand weeding @ 15 and 30 days after transplanting); and three treatments of the time of the application of the residues of E. crusgalli viz. i) one week before transplanting, ii) at the time of transplanting, iii) one week after transplanting. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Five weeds belonging to the five families were identified in the field such as Echinochloa crusgalli, Marsilea quadriflia, Monochori vaginalis, Paspalum scrobiculatum and Fimbristylis miliacea. The doses of residues of E. crusgalli had significant effect on yield and yield contributing characters of rice except number of non-effective tillers hill-1 and grains panicle-1. The highest grain yield (5.13 t ha-1), straw yield (6.19 t ha-1) biological yield (11.32 t ha-1) and harvest index (45.18%) were recorded when residues applied @ 2.1 t ha-1. In case of time of application of the residues, the highest grain yield (3.84 t ha-1) and straw yield (5.21 t ha-1) were found when the residues applied one week before transplanting. In case interaction between doses and time of application of the residues of E. crusgalli the highest the grain yield (5.98 tha-1), straw yield (6.67 t ha-1) and biological yield (11.32 t ha-1) were found when residues applied @ 2.1 tha-1 at one week before transplanting. Results of the study shows that the residues of Echinochloa crusgalli possess weed suppressing ability. Therefore, Echinochloa crusgalli residues could be applied to the rice field before one week of transplanting of seedlings to control weed growth and to get higher rice production.

Pengaruh herbisida bentazon 400 g/l + mcpa 60 g/l terhadap gulma, pertumbuhan dan hasil tanaman padi (Oryza sativa L.)

Weeds are one of the obstacles in rice cultivation because they can reduce rice yields both in quality and quantity. Weeds compete in terms of necessities of life such as water, nutrients and sunlight. This study aims to determine the effect of betazon 400 g/l + MCPA 60 g/l in controlling weeds and the growth of paddy rice. The research was conducted in Palasah Village, Kertajati District, Majalengka Regency, West Java. The experiment used a one-factor Randomized Block Design (RBD) with seven treatments and four replications. The experiment consisted of five treatments of bentazone 400 g/l + MCPA 60 g/l at a dose of 1.5 L/ha, 2.0 L/ha, 2.5 L/ha, 3.0 L/ha, 3.5 L/ha, the comparison is in the form of manual control and without weed control. The data obtained if there is a significant difference will be further tested using the testDuncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at the level of 5%. The results showed that the application of the herbicide Bentazone 400 g/l + MCPA 60 g/l at a dose of 1.5 L/ha was able to suppress the growth of broadleaf weeds (Lindernia crustarcea, Spenoclia zeylanica and Marsilea crenata), sedge weeds (Cypress iria and Fimbristylis miliacea) and does not cause symptoms of toxicity (phytotoxicity) to rice plants which so that they do not interfere with their growth.

The Effect of Dose Herbicide Active Ingredient Metsulfuron methyl on Weed Control, Growth and Yield of Rice Plants (Oryza sativa L.) Inpari 32 varieties

Rice (Oryza sativa L) is a food crop commodity that has a major role in the development of agriculture and the main food of the Indonesian people. Rice is a rice-producing crop. Rice (Oryza sativa L) is a food crop commodity that has a major role in the development of agriculture and the main food of the Indonesian people. Rice yield loss due to weeds is estimated at 10 to 15%, even up to 86% without control. The purpose of the study was to determine the effect of herbicide dosage levels and obtain the best dose of the active ingredient Metsulfuron methyl on weed control and rice crop yield (Oryza sativa L.). The experimental method used was an experimental method using Group Randomized Design (RAK) consisting of 7 experimental units and repeated 4 times, so that 28 experimental plots were obtained. The experimental treatment was A (Metsulfuron methyl 15 g / ha, B (Metsulfuron methyl 20 g / ha), C (Metsulfuron methyl 25 g / ha), D (Metsulfuron methyl 30 g / ha), E (Metsulfuron methyl 35 g / ha), F (manual control) and G (control). The results showed that herbicides made from Metsulfuron methyl with doses of 15 g / ha – 35 g / ha had an influence on the population growth of rice weed species such as Cyperus iria, Fimbristylis miliacea and Leptochloa chinensis. Herbicide with active ingredient Metsulfuron methyl does not have a toxic effect on rice plants. Metsulfuron methyl with a treatment dose range from 15 g / ha – 35 g / ha has a significant effect on rice weed control when compared to control treatment. The dose of Metsulfuron methyl is significantly different when compared to all dose levels tested and is able to produce dry rice grain as much as 14.21 kg / plot or equivalent to 22.7 tons / hectare.

Long Term Rice-Rape Seed Cropping Effects on Weed Seed Bank Size and Composition

To study the long term rice-rape cropping effect on weed seed bank size and composition, soil samples were collected from a long term (2004–2012) experiment under the cultivation techniques of conventional tillage transplanting (CTTP), no-tillage transplanting (NTTP), conventional tillage direct seeding (CTDS), and no-tillage direct seeding (NTDS) at a various soil depths of 0-5 cm, 5-10 cm, 10-15 cm, and 15-20 cm during 2011- 2012. Results indicated that, the highest weed seed accumulation of most species was in the 0-5 cm soil depth. More than 60% (% to total weed seeds) seeds were germinated at 20 days after placement of tray (DAP). The seed bank size of Echinochloa crus-galli(L) under direct seeded was 53% higher than transplanted in both years irrespective of tillage system. It decreased 67% under CT and 87% under NT from 0-5 to 5-10 cm soil depth in 2011. The ranked of weed species were grass > broad leaf > sedge based on their number per unit area in both years. The rank of Echinochloa crus-galli(L) was CTDS > NTTDS > NTTP > CTTP among the treatments at 0-5 cm soil depth in both years. Monochoria vaginalis (Burm.f) Kunth, Fimbristylis miliacea and C. iria L were fewer in number. The pressure of germination of weed seeds was more at 20 DAP at 0-5 cm soil depth. Total number (up to 60 DAP) of Echinochloa crus-galli was higher in CTDS at 0-5 cm soil depth in both the years and drastically reduced under no tillage than under conventional tillage towards deeper horizon of soil. Bangladesh Rice J. 26 (2): 73-82, 2022

Efikasi Herbisida Isopropilamina Glifosat 480 g/l pada Gulma Persiapan Tanam dan Pengaruhnya terhadap Tanaman Serta Hasil Padi Sawah Tanpa Olah Tanah

One of the efforts to control weeds in preparing land for lowland rice cultivation with the No-Tillage system one of which uses isopropylamineglyphosate herbicide. The purpose of this study was to determine the dose of glyphosate herbicide that effectively controls weeds for preparation of lowland rice planting with the no tillage system, to determine changes in weed composition in lowland rice after the application of glyphosate herbicide, and to determine the effect of the no tillage system after the application of glyphosate herbicide on growth and paddy yields. Data collection was carried out from June to September 2022 in the rice fields of Trimurjo District, Central Lampung Regency and the Weed Science Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Lampung. The treatment was arranged using a randomized block design with 4 replications and 6 treatments consisting of the glyphosate herbicide doses (1,080; 1,440; 1,800; 2,160 g/ha) + no tillage, manual weeding, and intensive tillage system. Homogeneity of variance was tested by Barlett's test and then analyzed for variance. Separation of the mean was carried out using the least significant difference test (LSD) at the 5% level. The results showed that the herbicide isopropylamine glyphosate doses of 1,800 and 2,160 g/ha of the no tillage system could be used to replace the intensive tillage system because it was effective in controlling total weeds, sedges, grasses, and broad leaf groups, dominant weed Fimbristylis miliacea, Echinochloa colonum, Ludwigia octovalvis and Monochoria vaginalis up to 6 WAP, causing a change in the composition of weed species from Echinochloa colonum become monochoria vaginalis at 3 WAP, and from Echinochloa colonum become Ludwigia octovalvis at 6 WAP. The growth is not stunted and yield of lowland rice plants is equivalent to the intensive tillage system with grain yields per hectare of 5.14 - 5.49 t/ha. Key words : weeds, isopropylamine glyphosate, paddy field, no tillage

Effect of Tembotrione on Weed Growth and Productivity of Kharif Maize (Zea mays L.)

A field experiment was conducted in maize (Zea mays L.) during both kharif (June–September, 2014 and 2015) seasons in a randomized block design with nine treatments, including the herbicide tembotrione as early post-emergence at 80, 100 and 120 g ha-1 both as sole and in combination with atrazine at 500 g ha-1, atrazine at 1000 g ha-1, hand-weeding twice at 25 and 40 DAS and unweeded control with three replications. The experimental field was heavily infested with Ludwigia parviflora (Jacq.) Raven, Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Cyperus rotundus (L.) and Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl. The yield of maize was reduced by around 48% due to weed infestation. From the experiment, it was found that combined application of tembotrione and atrazine was much more effective than sole application of herbicide at any of the levels that were evaluated. Tembotrione at a rate of 80–100 g ha-1+stefesmero surfactant at 733 g ha-1+atrazine at 500 g ha-1 recorded the lowest weed density, weed biomass and weed index; highest values of growth and yield parameters as well as the yield of maize. Therefore, early post–emergence application of tembotrione at 80–100 g ha-1+stefesmero surfactant at 733 g ha-1+atrazine 500 g ha–1 appeared to be the most effective weed management approach for higher weed control efficiency, yield, gross and net return of kharif maize in lateritic soil of West Bengal.

Efficacy of Herbicides, Their Effects on Rice Yield Under Saturated Soil Condition

This study was carried out in containers which were placed outdoor to evaluate the efficacy of different herbicides with different mixtures on weed growth suppression in rice and their effects on rice grain yield under saturated soil water regime in two consecutive seasons (cropping season and off season) at the Universiti Putra Malaysia Farm, Serdang, Selangor, Malaysia during 2016 to 2017. Eight combinations of different herbicides, viz. T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7 and T8 along with weed free and non-weeded treatments were used in the study following a RCBD. Weed composition in the experimental containers and their summed dominant ratio (SDR) at 60 days after planting were recorded from non-treated containers. Naturally grown eleven weed species mainly under the families of Poaceae, Cyperaceae and Pontederiaceae were found in the experimental containers. Based on the SDR values the dominant weed species were Monochoria vaginalis, Echinochloa crus-galli, and Fimbristylis miliacea in both the seasons. Results revealed that four herbicide treatments viz. Pretilachor fb Bentazon/MCPA (T1), Pretilachor+Pyribenzoxim fb Bentazon/MCPA (T2). Bispyribac-sodium fb Bentazon/MCPA (T2), Fenoxaprop+Ethoxysulfuron (T3), fb Bentazon/MCPA (T7) were superior in their effectiveness for weed control in both seasons and gave better rice grain yield with high economic return. Bangladesh J. Bot. 52(1): 37-44, 2023 (March)

Acute and subchronic toxicity profile of methanol extract of leaves of Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl.

Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl (Cyperaceae) is a grass like herb habitually breeds as weed in paddy fields and mostly disseminated in tropical or sub-tropical countries of south and south-east Asia, northern Australia, and west Africa. The plant has been traditionally used to treat fever as a form of poultice. However, no scientific study regarding its toxicity profile has been testified. The study has been carried out to determine the potential toxicity of the methanol extract from leaves of the Fimbristylis miliacea, employing the technique of acute and subchronic oral administration in mice. In the acute toxicity study according to OECD guideline 425, oral administration of FM methanol extract at single doses of 2000 and 5000mg/kg in both sexes of Swiss albino mice was performed. Toxic symptoms, abnormal behavior, changes in body weight, and mortality were observed for 14 consecutive days. In subchronic toxicity study according to OECD guideline 407, plant extract was administered orally at doses of 100, 500, 1000, and 2000mg/kg daily for 28 days. The general toxic symptoms, abnormal behavior, changes in body weight were observed daily. Biochemical analysis of serum, and histopathological examination of liver were performed at the end of the study. No mortality, abnormal behavior and urination, changes in sleep, food intake, adverse effect, and non-linearity in body weight have been recorded during acute toxicity study at the doses of 2000 and 5000mg/kg. Also, in subchronic toxicity study, FM extract produced no mortality or any kind of adverse effects in regards of general behavior, body weight, urination, sleeping routine, and food intake. In case of analysis of thirteen different biochemical parameters, concentrations of aspartate transaminase (AST) and glucose were altered significantly in male and female mice in both acute and subchronic study. Total cholesterol and triglycerides at 5000mg/kg.bw were changed in male mice in acute toxicity study. On the other hand, female mice had altered triglycerides in subchronic test. All other critical parameters were found unaffected. In subchronic test, histopathological examination of liver demonstrated cellular necrosis at 2000mg/kg.bw in both male and female mice while minor necrosis was observed at 1000mg/kg.bw. Thus, the no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL) can be assumed around 1000mg/kg.bw. The present study suggests that treatment with FM extract does not reveal significant toxicity.

Antioxidant and GC-MS Analysis of Cyperus iria, Fimbristyis miliacea, and Fimbristylis globulosa

Cyperaceae family had been commonly found in rice field areas. This family consists of 3000 species and 220 of them were classified as weeds. The presence of secondary metabolites demonstrates that this family of weeds, despite being one of the most invasive species in the world, is capable of a variety of biological functions. In this study, the antioxidant analysis and potentially chemical compunds were identified on three weeds in Cyperaceae family: Cyperus iria, Fimbristylis miliacea, and Fimbristylis globulosa. The GC-MS analysis of methanol extract of the three species showed 25, 11, and 9 compounds respectively. This study focuses on the non-polar extraction. The methanol extracts of these three species were screened for antioxidant activity. Antioxidant activity was determined using DPPH test. IC50 values for the extracts are 309.07 μg/ml (C. iria), 250.67 μg/ml (F. miliaea), and 623.82 μg/ml (F. globulosa).

Weed growth, nutrient removal and yield of direct-seeded rice as influenced by establishment methods and chemical-cum-mechanical weed management practices

Direct seeding of rice (Oryza sativa L.) has since long been viewed as a potential alternative to unsustainable water-intensive transplanted rice (TPR) world-over, but heavy infestation of a variety of weed species limits the large-scale adoption of direct-seeded rice (DSR) cultivation. Hence, a 2-year field investigation was carried-out in a spilt-plot design, at Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, during rainy seasons of 2016 and 2017 to assess the influence of various crop establishment methods (CEMs) and weed management options (WMs) on diverse weed-flora, nutrient removal by weeds, weed-control efficiency (WCE) and yield of DSR (cv. Rajendra Kasturi). The results revealed that zero-till DSR + residue + Sesbania brown manure (ZTDSR + R + SBM) was most effective in containing crop-weed competition, lowered density of Echinochloa colona (L.) Link, Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) Beauv., Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Eclipta alba (L.) Hassak., Caesulia axillaris Roxb., Cyperus rotundus L., Cyperus iria L., Fimbristylis miliacea (L.) Vahl. by 63.4% and enhanced grain yield by 22.8%. Further, applying pendimethalin at 1000 g ai ha−1 as PRE. and later post-emergence (POST) spray of chlorimuron + metsulfuron at 4 g ai ha−1 each 20 days after sowing (DAS) supplemented with 1 hand-weeding (HW) 45 DAS was found to be a better weed management option as this treatment recorded the lowest density and nutrient depletion by above mentioned weeds and higher WCE, thereby improving rice yield by 3–19.5% over other studied WMs. Also, the combination of this weed management option with ZTDSR + R + SBM suppressed weeds to a greater extent, restricting weeds to deplete nutrients (N, P and K) from the soil and finally fetched the highest DSR yield.

Phytochemical Screening, Antioxidant and Antifungal Activity of Methanolic Extract of Fimbristylis dichotoma and Fimbristylis miliacea

Fimbristylis genus had commonly found as a dominant weed in the rice fields. The sedges have been identified as one of the invasive weed in the world and their undesirable presence disturb the growth of the crop. The presence of secondary metabolites, on the other hand, revealed that this plant is capable of a wide range of biological activities. Therefore, this study focused on the phytochemistry, antioxidant and antifungal properties of 2 weeds in the genus Fimbristylis. The methanol extracts of 2 species; Fimbristylis miliacea and Fimbristylis dichotoma were screened for phytochemical, antioxidant and antifungal activity. Phytochemical screening showed the presence of saponin, terpenoid, phenolic and flavonoid. Antioxidant activity was determined using 2, 2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) assay. The extracts have significant antioxidant activity with values of IC50 = 250.67 μg/ml (F. miliacea) and 213.72 μg/ml (F. dichotoma). Antifungal activity was validated by dual culture test; minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal fungicidal concentration (MFC) using crude methanol extract 10mg/mL. The percentage of inhibition radial growth (PIRG) value by dual culture test against Colletotrichum spp for F. miliacea was 42.67%, and F. dichotoma was 38.33%. For MIC and MFC test, the lowest values against the plant pathogenic fungi showed at 1.25 mg/mL and 2.5 mg/mL. From the results, it showed that these extracts have the potential to be develop as natural products in integrated control strategies.