Increase In Growth Parameters Research Articles

Characterization of Bacillus velezensis DCJ 2 isolated from the rhizosphere soil of aglaonema ‘Maria’ and investigation of its plant growth-promoting effects

Aglaonema ‘Maria’ is one of the key foliage plants that has gained high demand in foreign destinations in the last few years. This study was conducted to characterize Bacillus velezensis DCJ 2, assess its plant growth promotion effect and investigate the effectiveness of different delivery methods of the bacterial inoculum for the growth promotion of Aglaonema ‘Maria’. In this context, DCJ 2, isolated from the rhizosphere soil of A. Maria was screened to investigate its potential as a plant growth-promoting bacterium. The pure culture of DCJ 2 maintained on nutrient agar was utilized for morphological, biochemical and physiological examinations. The molecular characterization of the strain was performed with different primer pairs targeting 16SrRNA, gyrA, pgsB and sugar kinase genes of DCJ 2. A pot experiment was carried out to investigate the plant growth promotion effect. It was conducted in the greenhouse as per the complete randomized block design with eight treatments and five replicates. . Healthy plants of A. ‘Maria’ established in field soil and solarized soil were treated with 100 ml of the suspension of the DCJ 2 at the rate of 10 8 CFU/ml either as a soil drench or foliar spray. The partial 16SrRNA, gyrA, pgsB and sugar kinase gene sequences of DCJ 2, BLAST searched in the NCBI database revealed that it has a high similarity to Bacillus velezensis. The pot experiment showed that the application of strain DCJ 2 as a soil drench to solarized soil (Treatment 6) yielded a significant increase in growth parameters at p=0.05. Based on molecular analysis, morphological, biochemical, and physiological reactions, DCJ 2 was identified as Bacillus velezensis. This study revealed that B. velezensis DCJ 2 has the potential to boost the growth of A. Maria and hence serve as a base for developing a biofertilizer.

How does water stress affect the bioaccumulation of galanthamine and lycorine, growth performance, phenolic content and defense enzyme activities in summer snowflake (Leucojum aestivum L.)?

AbstractLeucojum aestivum L. is an Amaryllidaceae bulbous plant with two alkaloids that have remarkable medicinal potential: galanthamine and lycorine. Although the presence of galanthamine in L. aestivum has commercial value for the pharmaceutical industry and the effect of water stress (WS) applications on secondary metabolite enhancement is well established in a variety of plants, no studies have been carried out to reveal the effectiveness of WS on this beneficial medicinal plant. Objective of the study was to investigate the effects of eight different WS treatments [Control, waterlogging (WL) condition, and drought stress conditions (water deficiency generated by water deficit irrigation-WDI 25%, 50%, and 75%- and polyethylene glycol-PEG 6000 15%, 30%, and 45%-)] on growth parameters, alkaloid levels (galanthamine and lycorine), non-enzymatic antioxidant activities (total phenol-flavonoid content and free radical scavenging activity), and enzymatic antioxidant activities [superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT)] of L. aestivum in a pot experiment. Based on the findings, maximum increases in growth parameters were obtained with PEG-induced WS treatments. Moderate water deficiency (50% WDI) produced the highest levels of galanthamine and lycorine, total phenol-flavonoid content, and antioxidant capacity, along with moderately elevated CAT activity in the bulbs. All WS treatments resulted in increased CAT activity in the bulbs. It was observed that bulbs had higher SOD and CAT activities under WL conditions had lower fresh weights and were close to control in terms of alkaloid levels, total phenol-flavonoid content, and free radical scavenging activity. When all of the outcomes were taken into account, it can be concluded that moderate water-deficit stress (50% WDI) was regarded as the most effective treatment for increasing the pharmaceutical value of L. aestivum. Graphical abstract

Brown macro-seaweeds derived agro-biostimulant for Zea mays farming in saline conditions: Growth enhancement and optimum biochemical and ion feedback

Salinity negatively affects maize growth, a cereal crop and used as a vital source of food production. Seaweeds are macro-aquatic biocatalysts and might act as a promising biostimulant for conferring crop salinity resistance by providing essential nutrients and growth-promoting regulators. This study was designed for the first time to examine the effects of two commonly found seaweeds, Iyengaria stellata and Colpomenia sinuosa, on the growth of maize under 0, 100, and 200 mM NaCl application. Plants treated with both salinities reduced plant growth, but the application of seaweed I. stellata and C. sinuosa significantly increased growth parameters, especially plant biomass (fresh and dry), length (root and shoot), and total plant height than other treatments. In addition, higher growth under seaweed amends was supported by improved chlorophyll, carbohydrates, carotenoids, and polyphenols as well as lower electrolyte leakages to escape from oxidative stress. Plants treated with both algal species enhanced Na+ and K+, which is important for osmotic balance and precise ion homeostasis and could be effective for optimum leaf metabolism for growth resilience of maize plants under saline-stress conditions. This study emphasizes the potential of C. sinuosa and I. stellata as effective biostimulants. They offer a sustainable approach to cultivating climate-resilient maize that can thrive in salt-affected environments.

Evaluation of Antimicrobial Activity of Neem Cake and Bio-Agents on Early Blight (Alternaria solani) of Tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.)

Early blight is the important disease of tomato because it causes huge economic loss to the farmer every year. Alternaria solani cause early blight of tomato and it is considered weed of field because of its wide adaptability under different environment. Use of fungicides for the management of disease in crop puts a large number of negative health and environmental effects therefore, the urgent need for a more sustainable and ecological approach to manage disease without fungicides. To avoid relying solely on chemicals and to identify a viable alternative component,this experiment was conducted to conclude the Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of Neem cake and bio-agents on early blight (Alternaria solani) of tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum L.) by soil application with Neem cake @ 250kg/ha and seedling treatment with bio agents in single and combination viz Pseudomonas fluorescens @10g/lit, Bacillu thuringiensis @10g/lit, Trichoderma viride @10g/lit, Pseudomonas fluorescens@5g/lit +Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit, Pseudomonas fluorescens@5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit and Trichoderma viride @ 5g/lit + Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit both in-vivo and in-vitro for their effectiveness to manage early blight of tomato caused by Alternaria solani .All the treatments were found significantly reduced the severity of the disease and increased growth parameters, Among all the treatments Neem cake@250kg/ha+ Pseudomonas fluorescens @5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @ 5g/lit followed by Neem cake@250kg/ha + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit + Bacillus thuringiensis @5g/lit were significantly superior over other treatments in reducing early blight infection and also in increasing growth parameters of the crop. For in-vitro studies only bio agents were selected among the treatments Pseudomonas fluorescens + Trichoderma viride showed highest mycelia inhibition (89.3%) followed by Trichoderma viride + Bacillus thuringiensis (86.6%). The highest cost benefit ratio was obtained with Neem cake 250kg/ha + Pseudomonas fluorescens @5g/lit + Trichoderma viride @5g/lit treatment (1:3.85). while other treatments also showed significantly effective for the checking of disease intensity and yield over control in the field condition.

Integrated approaches for heavy metal-contaminated soil remediation: harnessing the potential of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu, Oscillatoria sp., arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (Glomus mosseae and Glomus intraradices), and iron nanoparticles.

In recent years, researchers have extensively investigated the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil using plants, microorganisms, and iron nanoparticles. The objective of this study was to investigate and compare the individual and simultaneous effects of Paulownia elongata S. Y. Hu, cyanobacteria (Oscillatoria sp.), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) including Glomus mosseae and Glomus intraradices, and zero-valent iron nanoparticles (nZVI) on the remediation of heavy metal-contaminated soil containing chromium (Cr VI and Cr III) and nickel (Ni). The study found significant variations in parameters such as pH (acidity), electrical conductivity (EC), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), and organic carbon (OC) among different treatments. The addition of cyanobacteria, AMF, and nZVI influenced these properties, resulting in both increases and decreases compared to the control treatment. The treatment involving a combination of cyanobacteria, AMF, and nZVI (CCAN25) exhibited the highest increase in growth parameters, such as total dry mass, root length, stem diameter, and leaf area, while other treatments showed varied effects on plant growth. Moreover, the CCAN25 treatment demonstrated the highest increase in chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoid levels, whereas other treatments displayed reductions in these pigments compared to the control. Moderate phytoaccumulation of Cr and Ni in P. elongata samples across all treatments was observed, as indicated by the bioconcentration factor and bioaccumulation coefficient values being less than 1.0 for both metals. The findings provide insights into the potential application of these treatments for soil remediation and plant growth enhancement in contaminated environments.

Bioformulation of Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its biosurfactant to control the growth of phytopathogen Sclerotium rolfsii for the crop Brassica juncea var local, as a sustainable approach.

Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 is a potential producer of biosurfactants (BSs), and the organism is also found to be a producer of plant growth promoting traits, such as hydrogen cyanide and indole acetic acid (IAA), and a solubilizer of phosphate. The BSs were reportedly a blend of two classes, namely glycolipids and lipopeptides, as found by thin layer chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis. Furthermore, semi-targeted metabolite profiling via liquid chromatography mass spectroscopy revealed the presence of phospholipids, lipopeptides, polyamines, IAA derivatives, and carotenoids. The BS showed dose-dependent antagonistic activity against Sclerotium rolfsii; scanning electron microscopy showed the effects of the BS on S. rolfsii in terms of mycelial deformations and reduced branching patterns. In vitro studies showed that the application of B. proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its biosurfactant to seeds of Brassica juncea var local enhanced the seed germination rate. However, sawdust-carrier-based bioformulation with B. proteolyticus MITWPUB1 and its BS showed increased growth parameters for B. juncea var L. This study highlights a unique bioformulation combination that controls the growth of the phytopathogen S. rolfsii and enhances the plant growth of B. juncea var L. Bacillus proteolyticus MITWPUB1 was also shown for the first time to be a prominent BS producer with the ability to control the growth of the phytopathogen S. rolfsii.

Calcium oxide nanoparticles mitigate lead stress in Abelmoschus esculentus though improving the key antioxidative enzymes, nutritional content and modulation of stress markers

Lead (Pb) is thought to be one of most injurious metals on the earth. Lead stress in plants enhances synthesis of highly toxic reactive oxygen species (ROS). During present research, impact of calcium-oxide nanoparticles (CaO-NPs) was observed on antioxidative defense mechanism in Abelmoschus esculentus plants prone to Pb stress. A CRD experiment was employed with 5 replicates having four treatments (T0 = Control, T1 = Pb stress (200 ppm), T2 = CaO-NPs and T3 = Pb + CaO-NPs). Pb-stressed seedlings exhibited decreased root growth, shoot growth, chlorophyll concentration and biomass accumulation. Moreover, higher synthesis of hydrogen-peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA) and electrolyte leakage (EL) resulting in cellular injuries were noted in plants growing in Pb spiked conditions. Similarly, stressed plants showed higher accumulation of total soluble sugar and proline content besides elevated activity of antioxidative enzymes counting catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). On the contrary side, CaO-NPs alleviated the Pb induced phytotoxicity through improving activity of antioxidative enzymes. The elevated activity of antioxidant enzymes reduced biosynthesis of H2O2 and MDA which was revealed through the increased growth parameters. In addition, CaO-NPs persuaded enhancement in plant defence machinery by decreased chlorophyll deprivation and augmented the uptake of plant nutrients including K and Ca content. Hence, CaO-NPs can be potent regulators of the antioxidative enzymes and stress markers to ameliorate abiotic stresses.

Efficacy of different organic and inorganic nutrient sources on the growth and yield of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.)

The cultivation of bitter gourd (Momordica charantia L.) in Nepal faces significant challenges, resulting in diminished yields compared with other regions. The pivotal issue is optimizing fertilizer management practices to enhance bitter gourd growth and yield. In April 2022, a field experiment was conducted in Kapilvastu, Nepal to investigate the efficacy of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the growth and yield of bitter gourd. The study included five treatments: the recommended dose of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) fertilizer (111.66:54.56:35.36 NPK kg ha−1, and 29.49 t ha−1 farmyard manure), 100 % poultry manure, 100 % farmyard manure, 50 % NPK + 50 % poultry manure, and 50 % NPK + 50 % farmyard manure. We hypothesized that a blend of 50 % organic and 50 % inorganic manure would significantly enhance bitter gourd performance. These treatments were evaluated in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four replications and analyzed using R-Studio. The results showed that 50 % NPK +50 % poultry manure increased growth parameters, such as plant height (380 cm), branch count plant−1 (22), node count plant−1 (34.75), female flower count (50.50), fruit length plant−1 (24.75 cm), and fruit diameter (6.53 cm), and decreased male flower count (132.25) and days to first male (33.75) and female (36.25) flowering. The application of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure increased individual fruit weight (274.50 g) and yield-attributing traits, such as fruit count (17.25), fruit yield (55.56 t ha−1), net return (7944$), and benefit-cost ratio (3.14). A synergistic blend of 50 % NPK and 50 % poultry manure can serve as a viable and effective nutrient source for promoting growth and maximizing bitter gourd yield. Although these results are promising, further validation and extension of these positive findings are required on a larger scale in diverse ecological regions.

Effect of Integrated Nutrient Management and Agronomic Biofortification on Growth and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum. L.)

A field experiment was conducted at Students’ Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur, (U.P.) to assess the effect of organic source with foliar application of micronutrients on growth and yield of wheat for two consecutive years (2021-22) and (2022-23).The experiment comprises three treatment under main plot viz: F1- Control (100% RDF), F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha, and F3- 100 % RDF + FYM @ 5t/ha, and five treatments foliar spray of micronutrient in sub plot viz: M1- control (No spray), M2- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, M3- Foliar spray of Nano Zinc @ 0.5% spray at tillering and booting stages, M4- Foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages and M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages. Fifteen treatment combination were assigned under Split Plot Design (SPD) and replicated thrice. Wheat variety (K- 1006) was grown with the recommended agronomic practices. Results showed that maximum increase in growth parameters and yield and yield attribute of wheat viz: plant height (cm), number of tillers/m2, leaf area index and spike length (cm), number of spikelets /spike and harvest index (%) and biological yield (ton ha-) recorded significantly higher with F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha treatments Among the sub-plot , M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, produced significant maximum highest harvest index (42.77 %) and biological yield (13.88 ton /ha) as compared to all other treatments.

Performance of Integrated Nutrient Management and Foliar Spray of Micronutrients on Growth, Yield Attribute and Yield of Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

A field experiment was conducted during two rabi seasons of 2021-2022 and 2022-23 at Students’ Instructional Farm of Chandra Shekhar Azad University of Agriculture and Technology Kanpur, (U.P.) The experiment was caried out in SPD (Split Plot Design) with fifteen treatment combination were replication thrice. fifteen treatment treatments combination consisted of three organic manure + RDF nutrient source (Control (100% RDF), 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha, and 100 % RDF + FYM @ 5t/ha) put under main plot and five foliar spray of micronutrient control (No spray),Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages, Foliar spray of Nano Zinc @ 0.5% at tillering and booting stages, Foliar spray of FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages and M5- Foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages) allotted under sub plot. The study on yield attribute and yield of wheat. The result showed that the maximum increase growth parameters, yield attribute and yield of wheat viz plant height (cm), number of tillers/m2, and leaf area index and number of grain/spike, number spike/m2, total grain weight spike (g) and test weight (1000 grain weight) (g) and grain yield (t/ha) and straw yield (t/ha) recorded significantly higher with F2- 100 % RDF + Vermicompost @ 2.5t/ha treatments. Among the sub plot, M5- foliar spray of ZnSO4 @ 0.25% + FeSO4 @ 0.25% at tillering and booting stages produced significantly maximum highest grain yield (5.95 t/ha) and straw yield (7.94 t/ha)

Crucial roles of trehalose and 5-azacytidine in alleviating salt stress in tomato: Both synergistically and independently

Trehalose may improve plant stress tolerance by regulating gene expression under different abiotic stresses. DNA methylation is involved in plant growth and development, but also in response to abiotic stresses. 5-azacytidine is a widely used inhibitor of DNA methylation. In this study, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L. ‘Ailsa Craig’) was used as experimental material to explore the effects of trehalose and DNA methylation on the growth and development in tomato seedlings under salt stress. 10 mM trehalose, 50 μM 5-azacytidine, and their combined treatments could significantly increase growth parameters in tomato under salt stress, indicating trehalose and 5-azacytidine might play crucial roles in alleviating salt stress both synergistically and independently. Additionally, trehalose significantly down-regulated the expression of DNA methylase genes (SlDRM5, SlDRM1L1, SlCMT3 and SlCMT2) and up-regulated the expression of DNA demethylases genes under salt stress, suggesting that trehalose might regulate DNA methylation under salt stress condition. Under salt stress, trehalose and 5-azacytidine treatments enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and induced antioxidant enzyme gene expression in tomato seedlings. Meanwhile, trehalose and 5-azacytidine increased ABA content by regulating the expression of ABA metabolism-related genes, thereby enhancing salt tolerance in tomato. Altogether, these results suggest that trehalose conferred salt tolerance in tomato seedlings probably by DNA demethylation and enhancing antioxidant capability and ABA accumulation.

Evaluation of Morphological Growth Response of Abelmoschus esculentus (Okra) to Simple Organic Supplements

Soil health and nutrient availability are important for sustaining crop productivity and increasing yield. Farmers have practiced fortifyingsoil using various supplements (organic and inorganic, natural and synthetic) since the advent of modern agriculture. However, addinginorganic fertilizers, weedicides and pesticides has adversely affected our agroecosystems. Harmful chemicals from synthetic fertilizersget accumulated in soil and plant parts, causing serious health problems. The synthetic agri-products have detrimental effects onsoil fertility and soil microbiota, making the soil less fertile and unsuitable for cultivation. In the last decade, a paradigm shift in agripracticeshas occurred and organic farming has become a popular sustainable option to improve soil health and achieve sustainabledevelopment goals.The potential of various organic supplements has been studied in the present investigation on the growth parameters of an importantvegetable crop okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) valued for its multipurpose uses in various parts of the country. Pure line seeds of okravariety Arka Anamika were surface sterilized and used for the study. Plants were raised in plastic pots (10 inches) filled with soil treatedwith leaf compost, foliar spray (Gibberellic acid, 0.001%) and pine bark mulch. Garden soil without organic supplements served asa control. The experiment was carried out in a completely randomized design with three replications. An increase in the vegetativegrowth parameters and in reproductive parameters in all the treatments as compared to control was observed in the plants. Though alltreatments showed an increase in growth parameters, a significant increase was observed with mulch, suggesting that the mulch derivedfrom organic waste and residues have immense potential in improving crop health by making them more robust, and enhancing theyield. Investigating the amelioration of soil physico-chemical properties with these organic supplements and understanding their role inbetter crop performance is beneficial for the farmers. The present study also provides simple, sustainable, and eco-friendly biofertilizerpotential of self-prepared pine bark mulch for vegetable crops.

Secular trends in the anthropometric characteristics of children in a rural community in Yucatan, Mexico.

To analyze changes in height, weight, and body mass index (BMI = kg/m2 ) from 1986 to 2022 in 3-11 year old children from Dzeal, a rural Maya community in Yucatan, Mexico. From October-2022 to February-2023 (third-wave survey), we obtained anthropometric measurements of children (n = 80) and family socioeconomic data and compared them with data obtained in 1986 (n = 38) and 2000 (n = 76). Comparisons of anthropometric parameters by sex between years of measurement were performed graphically and through one-way ANOVA, splitting children into two age groups: 3-7 and 8-11. Bonferroni adjustments for multiple comparisons were used when ANOVAs were statistically significant (p < .05). In girls, significant increases in height and weight between surveys were found in 3-7 and 8-11 age groups; in boys, significant increases were only found in the 8-11 age group. Regarding BMI, there were increases in 2022 compared with 1986/2000 in both sexes from 8 years onwards. Differences indicate increases of 3.9 and 4.4 cm per decade in girls aged 3-7 and 8-11, respectively, and increases in weight of 1.1 and 3.3 kg per decade, respectively. Increases in boys 8-11 years were 2.3 cm and 2.4 kg per decade. Significant increases in growth parameters were observed in specific-age children in the community studied in the context of changes in livelihoods and improvements in household material conditions.

Entrophospora etunicata: A mycorrhizal biostimulant with the potential to enhance the production of bioactive health-promoting compounds in leaves of Capsicum chinense seedlings

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are known to benefit pepper species, but there are no reports of such efficiency in Capsicum chinense, one of the most valuable commercial plant species. Therefore, this study aimed to select an efficient mycorrhizal biostimulant to increase the production of secondary compounds and the antioxidant activity in C. chinense leaves. The experiment was conducted in a greenhouse with four mycorrhizal inoculation treatments (control without AMF, seedlings inoculated with Entrophospora etunicata, Acaulospora longula, and Gigaspora albida). After 120 days, agronomic growth parameters, production of primary and secondary metabolites, and foliar antioxidant activity were evaluated. Capsicum chinense seedlings inoculated with E. etunicata had increases in growth parameters ranging from 27 to 133% compared to the non-inoculated control, depending on the variable considered. Pepper seedlings associated with E. etunicata produced 77%, 147%, 140%, and 136% more soluble carbohydrates, total proanthocyanidins, total phenols, and total saponins, respectively, compared to those not inoculated. Such benefits were also reported for total proteins and total foliar flavonoids. On the other hand, this AMF was ineffective in enhancing the accumulation of alkaloids. It is concluded that E. etunicata is an alternative for improving the production of C. chinense seedlings and enhancing the anabolism of health-promoting bioactive compounds in the phytomass to be offered to the herbal medicine industry. This is the first report on the potential of mycorrhizal inoculation to optimize secondary anabolism in C. chinense leaves.

Acceleration of histopathological and biochemical defense patterns in mung bean with biopriming of Amycolatopsis sp. SND-1 against Cercospora leaf spot disease

ObjectivesFailure of chemical control methods in conferring protection against Cercospora leaf spot (CLS) disease in mung bean crop led to the investigation of biocontrol agents for effective management of the CLS. The current study was focused on increased defense response (histochemical and biochemical) in mung bean plants by alginate pellet formulation of endophytic Amycolatopsis sp. SND-1 (SND-1) against CLS disease. MethodsThe sodium alginate bioformulation of SND-1 was prepared by standard method using CaCl2 and evaluated for viability and contamination. Greenhouse study of prepared SND-1 formulation was performed on mung bean plants against CLS infection. Further, the acceleration of histochemical depositions (lignin, H2O2 and phenol) by differential staining methods and biochemical defense enzymes like PAL, GLU, and POX, phenolic, flavonoid and chlorophyll contents and cell death analysis were evaluated through microscopic and spectroscopic studies. ResultsThe viability assay of the prepared formulation exhibited a negligible reduction in SND-1 spores (99.5% to 86.55%) throughout the six months of storage period. In-vivo (Greenhouse) study exhibited increased growth parameters in alginate pellet formulation of SND-1challenged with Cercospora pathogen (SND-1+Pathogen) treated mung bean plants in comparison with Control (SDW) and only pathogen infested plants. Consequently, the plants with SND-1+Pathogen treatment showed significant reduction in disease severity up to 56%. Furthermore, the microscopic evaluation of histochemical defense markers depicted increased deposition of lignin (82.43±0.31%), H2O2 (47.97±0.66%), and phenol (76.74±0.79%) and cell death analysis through microscopic observation exhibited lesser dead cells of 31% in SND-1+Pathogen treatment in comparison with other treatments. Defense patterns at biochemical level hinted the elevation in activities of defense enzymes like PAL, GLU and POX at 12 and 24 h post pathogen inoculation (hpi) in SND-1+Pathogen treatment. The formulation treatment with pathogen (SND-1+Pathogen) also substantiated that enhanced total phenolic, flavonoid, and chlorophyll contents at different time intervals. ConclusionsOverall the present investigation showed that Amycolatopsis sp. SND-1 formulation confers the protection in mung bean upon Cercospora infection and it might be an effective eco-friendly approach towards sustainable agriculture.

Performance Assessment of Japanese Mint Varieties for Growth under Open Field and Vertical A-Frame Structure

Japanese mint (Mentha arvensis L.), is a member of the family Lamiaceae which is a perennial herbaceous aromatic plant but cultivated as an annual for culinary purpose as leafy vegetable and as natural menthol extraction. It is a major source of raw material for flavours and fragrance industry. Urban regions are losing cultivable land every day and it has become extremely difficult to produce fresh vegetables of high quality. By using vertical structures, vertical space can be utilized while increasing the quality of vegetable production. This experiment was conducted at Department of Vegetable Science, Horticultural College &amp; Research Institute, Periyakulam during 2022-2023 to evaluate the performance of nine varieties viz., Kosi (V1), CIM-Kranti (V2), Himalaya (V3), Kalka (V4), MAS-1 (V5), Saksham (V6), Gomti (V7), Seelayampatti local (V8) and Bangalore hybrid (V9) under open field (G1) and vertical A-frame structure (G2) condition. One vertical A-frame structure is used in this study which contain 516 holes for planting. Among the nine varieties, Saksham (V6) showed increase in growth parameters in both conditions. The observations on growth parameters were recorded for plant height(cm), number of leaves, root length(cm), fresh weight of roots(g) and dry weight of roots(g). Saksham variety in vertical A-frame structure yielded maximum plant height (53.05 cm), number of leaves (112.73), root length (39.92 cm), fresh weight of roots (3.204g) and dry weight of roots (0.874g) followed by the variety CIM-Kranti in vertical A-frame structure (48.83cm, 77.61, 37.75cm, 2.582g and 0.648g). As a result, the interactive action of G2V6 showed maximum growth due to the availability of nutrients in the root system and timely application of water and nutrient helped in better plant parameters.

The Synergic Effect of Gut-Derived Probiotic Bacillus cereus SL1 And Ocimum sanctum on Growth, Intestinal Histopathology, Innate Immunity, and Expression of Enzymatic Antioxidant Genes in Fish, Cirrhinus mrigala (Hamilton, 1822).

An effective alternative approach to combat aquaculture challenges is the strategic application of bioresources, which not only mitigate disease ailment but also optimize fish growth. Hence, current research was undertaken to highlight the synergic role of bioresources such as plant immunostimulant Ocimum sanctum along with potent gut-derived probiotic Bacillus cereus strain SL1 (Gen Bank Accession Number: FJ627945.1) on mrigal (Cirrhinus mrigala) growth, antioxidant status, gut histopathology, and immune response. For 90days, fingerlings (average weight 6.8 ± 0.5g) were fed on diets having varying concentrations of O. sanctum and B. cereus. After the completion of the feeding trial, various growth, immunity, and histological and antioxidant metrics were evaluated according to standard procedures. In comparison to the control and other treatment groups, T3 group showed a significant (P < 0.05) increase in growth parameters, antioxidant enzymatic activity, and hematological and immunological parameters. In addition to it, supplementation of both B. cereus and O. sanctum also upregulated the antioxidant-related gene expressions, such as hepatic catalase gene by 1.89-3.00 folds, hepatic SOD-1 by 4.46-7.52 folds, and GPx-1of the liver by 1.56-1.95 folds. For 10days, fingerlings were challenged with the pathogenic bacterium Aeromonas hydrophila (MTCC-1739), and maximum survival rate (77.77%) was reported in fingerlings of T3 treatment. Further histopathological studies of gut tissues affirm that O. sanctum and B. cereus play a synergic role in the protection of digestive organs from the pathogenic bacterium A. hydrophila. These results suggest that O. sanctum and B. cereus synergically improved the growth performance, immunity, antioxidant status, and gut histology of C. mrigala leading to its sustainable culture.

Influence of Super Nano Urea and Nano DAP on Growth Parameters of Rice Fallow Cotton under High Density Planting System

The experiment was carried out at wetlands farm, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, during summer, 2023 in a Randomized block design with ten treatments and replicated thrice. The main objective of this study is to find out the effect of varied dose of basal nitrogen &amp; phosphorus and foliar application of conventional urea, super nano urea and nano DAP on rice fallow cotton under High Density Planting System (HDPS) on growth parameters. Cotton variety CO 17 was taken up for the study with RDF of 150:50:50 NPK Kg ha-1. The experimental details viz., T1- control (without N&amp;P) K alone, T2- RDF (150:50:50 NPK Kg ha-1), T3- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ conventional urea @ 1% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS, T4- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ conventional urea @ 1% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS and 45 DAS, T5- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU(Super Nano Urea) @ 0.25% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS (Days After Sowing) and 45 DAS, T6- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU @ 0.25% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS, 45 DAS and 65 DAS, T7- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU @ 0.5% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS and 45 DAS, T8- 25% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU @ 0.5% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS 45 DAS and 65 DAS, T9- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU @ 1% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS, T10- 50% RDN&amp;P,100% K+ SNU @ 1% and nano DAP @ 0.5% at 25 DAS and 45 DAS. The experimental results revealed that, among all the treatments, T10 significantly registered the increased plant height (112.33 cm) and highest leaf area index (4.11) and enhanced light interception (91%). Based on the experimental results, it is concluded T10 i.e., reduced application of basal nitrogen and phosphorus (50% RDN&amp;P + 100% K) with super nano urea foliar spray @ 1% and nano DAP foliar spray @ 0.5% at 25 DAS and 45 DAS found to be the optimal dosage for increased growth parameters under high density planting system in rice fallow cotton.

An emerging role of arecoline on growth performance, intestinal digestion and absorption capacities and intestinal structural integrity of adult grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella)

Arecoline is an alkaloid with important pharmacological effects in the plant areca nut, which has been demonstrated to be an agonist of muscarinic receptors (M receptor). This study explored the influences of dietary arecoline on growth performance, intestinal digestion and absorption abilities, antioxidant capacity, and the apical junction complex (AJC) of adult grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella). Adult grass carp (608 to 1512 g) were fed at 6 graded levels of dietary arecoline (0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, and 2.5 mg/kg diet) for 9 weeks. The results suggested that appropriate dietary supplementation of arecoline (1.0 mg/kg) increased growth parameters and intestinal growth in adult grass carp (P < 0.05), enhanced digestion and absorption capacities (P < 0.05), up-regulated muscarinic receptor 3 (M3) mRNA level (P < 0.05), increased the content of neuropeptide fish substance P (P < 0.05), improved antioxidant capacity by activating the Keap1a/Nrf2 signaling pathway (P < 0.05), reduced intestinal mucosal permeability (P < 0.05), and increased mRNA levels of tight junction (TJ) and adherent junction AJ-related proteins in fish by inhibiting the RhoA/ROCK signaling pathway (RhoA/ROCK/MLCK/NMII) (P < 0.05). In addition, the appropriate arecoline supplementation for adult grass carp was determined to be 1.20, 1.21, 1.07, and 1.19 mg/kg based on percentage weight gain, lipase activity, serum diamine oxidase, and protein carbonyl, respectively. Overall, to the best of our knowledge, we investigated for the first time the effects and possible mechanisms of dietary arecoline on intestinal digestive and absorptive capacities and structural integrity in fish and evaluated the appropriate level of supplementation.

Effect of Different Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth and Development of Philodendron scandens Grown Under Shade Net Condition

Owing to the importance of foliage plants in indoor gardening, the experiment was carried out to determine the effect of different levels of NPK on growth and development of Sweet--heart plant (Philodendron scandens). The study was carried out at the College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad, Sri Konda Laxman Telangana State Horticultural University. This was during Kharif season of the year 2019-20 in Completely Randomized Design with seven treatments and replicated thrice. There was an increase in growth parameters like plant height (44.00 cm), stem diameter (37.46 mm), number of leaves per plant (49.50) when Philodendron plants treated with N:P:K (1:1:1) – 2 g per poly bag at 30 days interval (T1). Whereas, application of N:P:K (1:1:1) – 2 g per poly bag at 45 days interval - T2 significantly resulted maximum plant spread (E-W) (49.67 cm), plant spread (N-S) (52.33 cm). Contrary to this among the treatments, T7- Control (without fertilizers) plants showed shorter plant height (36.83 cm), lower plant spread (E-W) (36.33 cm), plant spread (N-S) (42.67 cm), stem diameter (30.33 mm), significantly minimum number of leaves per plant (42.00).