Melia Azedarach Research Articles

Three cytochrome P450 88A subfamily enzymes, CYP88A108, CYP88A164, and CYP88A222, act as β-amyrin 11-oxidases involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis in Melia azedarach L.

Three cytochrome P450 88A subfamily enzymes, CYP88A108, CYP88A164, and CYP88A222, act as β-amyrin 11-oxidases involved in triterpenoid biosynthesis in Melia azedarach L.

Leafing a mark on immunity: Quercetin-3-O-D-glucopyranoside and quercetin-3-O-(2″,6″-digalloyl)-β-D-galactopyranoside-rich Melia azedarach L. extract's immunoinflammatory effects on an sRBC-immunized BALB/c model.

Leafing a mark on immunity: Quercetin-3-O-D-glucopyranoside and quercetin-3-O-(2″,6″-digalloyl)-β-D-galactopyranoside-rich Melia azedarach L. extract's immunoinflammatory effects on an sRBC-immunized BALB/c model.

Relationship between Fruiting Phenology and Climatic Factors in Lower Montane Forest at Doi Suthep – Pui National Park, Chiang Mai Province

Background and Objectives: The fruiting phenology of tree species is closely linked to seasonal patterns and climatic factors, both of which play a crucial role in determining the availability of food resources for a wide range of frugivores. These plant-animal interactions are fundamental to maintaining the stability of ecosystem and biodiversity. Amidst on going global climate change, understanding the mechanisms determining fruiting phenology is essential for predicting ecological dynamics and informing effective conservation planning. This is particularly crucial in the lower montane forest, which exhibits unique environmental conditions and is sensitive to climate change impacts, including rising temperatures and erratic rainfall. Nevertheless, understanding of climate change effects on fruiting phenology in Thailand’s montane forests remains insufficient. This research aimed to investigate the timing and magnitude of fruit production in tree species within a permanent lower montane forest plot at Huai Kog Ma, Doi Suthep-Pui National Park, Chiang Mai Province. It also examines the relationship between fruiting phenology and climatic factors, aiming to establish a comprehensive understanding of the environmental drivers shaping fruiting phenology in this lower montane forest ecosystem. Methodology: A comprehensive review of tree species in the lower montane forest permanent plot was conducted, drawing from databases and literature sources such as the Concise Encyclopedia of Plants in Thailand, the BGO Plant Database, the Useful Tropical Plants Database, and A Field Guide to Forest Trees of Northern Thailand, including a preliminary permanent plot survey to identify species bearing fleshy fruits consumed by wildlife. A diverse set of 32 species from 21 families was selected to ensure broad taxonomic representation. Fruiting phenology was monitored for at least five mature individuals per species using binoculars from October 2016 to December 2018. The average monthly fruiting percentage for each species was then calculated. The relationships between fruiting phenology and climatic factors were analyzed using multiple linear regression in R software. Main Results: Based on 32 tree species for fruit production monitoring, 18 species were found to bear fruits during the observation period. These species were categorized into three phenological groups. Group 1 comprised species fruiting in the dry season (November–April), including Eurya acuminata, Litsea cambodiana, and Prunus arborea. Group 2 consisted of species fruiting in the rainy season (May–October), including Baccaurea ramiflora, Protium serratum, Saurauia roxburghii, and Syzygium tetragonum. Group 3 comprised species that fruited continuously throughout the year without a specific season, including Acronychia pedunculata, Apodytes dimidiata, Canthiumera glabra, Choerospondias axillaris, Ficus curtipes, Ficus simplicissima, Ficus elmeri, Garcinia celebica, Madhuca floribunda, Melia azedarach, and Heptapleurum heptaphyllum. The timing and quantity of fruit production for each species were influenced by various factors, including tree size, soil nutrient availability, tree density in the area, and climatic conditions. Upon analyzing the relationship between fruiting phenology and climatic factors, it was observed that 8 out of 18 species exhibited a significant correlation with rainfall and temperature. These species can be classified into two distinct groups. The first group comprises four species whose fruiting patterns were significantly correlated with rainfall. Among these, two species—P. serratum and A. dimidiata—demonstrated a positive correlation with rainfall, while two species—F. simplicissima and M. floribunda—exhibited a negative correlation. The second group includes four species whose fruiting was significantly correlated with temperature. Among these, two species—B. ramiflora and F. curtipes—displayed a positive correlation with temperature, while the other two—A. pedunculata and E. acuminata— exhibited a negative correlation. In analyzing the study results in conjunction with climatic data spanning from 2019 to 2022, it was observed that monthly rainfall exhibited significant variability, particularly in the year 2022, during which precipitation experienced a notable increase during the rainy season. Conversely, temperature fluctuations were relatively minor. This observation suggests that the fruiting phenology of species associated with rainfall may also exhibit substantial variability. These findings suggest that species whose fruiting is sensitive to rainfall, particularly F. simplicissima and M. floribunda, may exhibit reduced fruit production under increased precipitation. As both are key food sources for various frugivores, alterations in their fruiting patterns could result in food scarcity, triggering intensified interspecific competition or dietary shifts among wildlife. Such behavioral changes may reduce seed dispersal opportunities for these species, potentially limiting their reproductive success and risking local extinction. If similar effects are experienced by other species. resulting disruption could compromise forest regeneration processes and destabilize the ecological balance of the lower montane forest system. Conclusion: On going climate change undeniably influences the alterations in the fruiting phenology of those species closely associated with climatic factors. Consequently, it affects frugivores that function as key seed dispersers and disrupts natural ecosystem regeneration processes. The study offers valuable insights into tree species, highly vulnerable to climate change, highlighting the urgent need for conservation strategies aimed at mitigating extinction risks. Such efforts are essential for sustaining ecological balance and promoting the long-term resilience of forest ecosystems under changing environmental conditions.

In Vitro Biocompatibility Assessment of Entomopathogenic Fungi and Plant Leaf Extracts

<p>Entomopathogenic fungi are potential candidates for ecofriendly pest-management. These fungi with botanical extracts can improve control over insect pests of economical crops. This study assessed the biocompatibility between four fungi (<em>Aspergillus flavus</em>, <em>Aspergillus oryzae</em>, <em>Metarhizium flavoviride</em>, and <em>Trichoderma</em> <em>hamatum</em>) and four aqueous plant leaf extracts (<em>Azadirachta indica</em>, <em>Eucalyptus camaldulensis</em>, <em>Melia azedarach</em>, and <em>Ocimum sanctum</em>). The fungal strain pure cultures were procured from the Fungal Culture Bank, University of the Punjab, Lahore. Leaf extracts were employed at 0.25% to 1% concentrations, whereas fungal inocula were maintained at 1 × 10<sup>8</sup> conidia/ml. Fungal dry mycelial weight (DMW), colonial growth (CG), and conidial density (CD) were recorded on PDB and PDA media with leaf extracts. Compatibility was calculated based on DMW, CG, and CD results. <em>Aspergillus flavus</em> was highly compatible with 0.25% to 1% <em>A. indica</em> leaf extract. <em>Aspergillus oryzae</em> was compatible with 0.5% to 1% <em>E. Camaldulensis</em> and 0.25% <em>M. azedarach</em> leaf extracts. <em>Metarhizium flavoviride</em> was compatible with 0.5% to 1% <em>E. Camaldulensis</em> and 1% <em>M. azedarach</em> leaf extracts. <em>Trichoderma hamatum</em> shared high compatibility with most concentrations of plant extracts and emerged as the most promising strain. These findings promote fungi-plant extract combination as an ecofriendly pest-management alternative.</p>

Green Synthesis of Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles Using Melia azedarach Leaf Extract and Evaluation

The present study reports the green synthesis and characterization of titanium dioxide (TiO₂) nanoparticles. The nanoparticles were synthesized via the sol-gel method using an aqueous extract of Melia azedarach leaves. The synthesized TiO₂ nanoparticles were characterized using various analytical techniques, including Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), UV–Visible Spectroscopy (UV–Vis), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), and Energy-Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDAX). XRD analysis was conducted to determine the crystalline nature of the TiO₂ nanoparticles. SEM and TEM were used to study the shape and size of the nanoparticles. SEM images revealed spherical nanoparticles with sizes ranging from 25 nm to 87 nm, while TEM analysis showed sizes in the range of 15–45 nm. The XRD patterns displayed peaks at 25.36°, 26.54°, 37.05°, 37.78°, 38.54°, 48.12°, 54.02°, and 55.04°, corresponding to the (101), (110), (004), (103), and other crystal planes of anatase and rutile phases of TiO₂.UV–Vis spectra of the green-synthesized TiO₂ nanoparticles were recorded using a Shimadzu UV-2450 PC dual-beam spectrophotometer in the wavelength range of 200–900 nm. EDAX analysis was used to determine the chemical composition and confirm the crystalline nature of the synthesized TiO₂ nanoparticles. It is generally known that TiO₂ exhibits characteristic optical absorption peaks in the range of 4.3–5.3 keV, attributed to surface plasmon resonance.

Evaluation of different leaf extracts of Melia azedarach formulations on root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, infesting tomato plant in vitro and in vivo

Evaluation of different leaf extracts of Melia azedarach formulations on root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita, infesting tomato plant in vitro and in vivo

Growth of young Melia azedarach trees in abandoned farmlands as planting sites in western Japan

Growth of young Melia azedarach trees in abandoned farmlands as planting sites in western Japan

Effect of Spacing on Growth Performance, Microclimate and Soil Health of Micro Forests under Punjab Conditions, India

The present work was carried out in the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana during 2022-23 to evaluate the impact of spacing on growth performance, biomass accumulation, microclimate modulation, and soil health of micro forests under Punjab conditions. A factorial randomized block design was used, involving 15 native plant species planted at two different spacings (1 m × 1 m and 1.5 m × 1.5 m). The results showed that Melia azedarach exhibited superior growth across all parameters, including plant height (518.52 cm), basal diameter (48.93 mm), crown spread (275.11 cm) and total biomass (66.19 t ha-1) followed by Albizia lebbeck. The micro forest established with 1 m × 1 m spacing significantly improved soil health and microclimate better in comparison to 1.5 m × 1.5 m spacing. This configuration also resulted in higher biomass accumulation (47.70 t ha-1). In contrast, the 1.5 m × 1.5 m spacing promoted greater basal diameter (45.75 mm) and crown spread (155.19 cm) but resulted in lower biomass accumulation (28.44 t ha-1). Based on the findings, the study recommends the planting of native fast-growing species such as Melia azedarach, Albizia lebbeck, Dalbergia sissoo, Vitex negundo, and Morus alba at closer spacing to enhance urban ecological restoration, improve soil health, and mitigate the adverse effects of urbanization. Conversely, the inclusion of slow-growing species such as Madhuca longifolia and Aegle marmelos is discouraged under such dense planting conditions.

Physico-Mechanical Properties of Two Native Tree Species in the Philippines and Their Potential as Alternatives to Exotic Industrial Tree Plantation Species

The potential of Bagalunga (Melia azedarach L.) and Kalumpit (Terminalia microcarpa Decne) as alternatives to Falcata [Falcataria falcata (L.) Greuter & R. Rankin], Gmelina (Gmelina arborea Roxb. ex Sm.), and Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla King) were evaluated by assessing their physico-mechanical properties in accordance with ASTM D143-52: 2019 standards. Results showed that Mahogany had the lowest green moisture content (MC) at 90.60% and the highest basic relative density (RDb) at 0.52, while Falcata exhibited the highest green MC (193.98%) and the lowest RDb (0.29). Bagalunga displayed the highest shrinkage values [tangential shrinkage (TS): 6.63%, radial shrinkage (RS): 4.48%, volumetric shrinkage (VS): 10.81%], whereas Mahogany showed the lowest shrinkage (TS: 3.59%, RS: 3.11%, VS: 6.81%) but the highest longitudinal shrinkage (LS) (0.42%). Mahogany recorded the highest modulus of rupture (MOR) (63.65 MPa and 66.96 MPa at green and 12% MC, respectively), and excelled in compression [parallel (27.28 MPa and 35.62 MPa), perpendicular (7.14 MPa and 7.89 MPa)], hardness [side (4.67 kN and 4.20 kN), end (5.48 kN and 5.49 kN)], and shear strength (8.37 MPa and 10.37 MPa). Kalumpit exhibited the highest toughness in both green and 12% MC conditions (48.51 J/Spec and 42.62 J/Spec), along with the highest SPL (33.42 MPa) and MOE (8.58 GPa) at 12% MC. Gmelina had the highest MOE (7.12 GPa), while Mahogany showed the highest SPL (25.50 MPa) in the green condition. Height levels significantly affected TS and VS, while mechanical properties showed minimal variation. Farmers may consider Bagalunga and Kalumpit as alternative species. The application of silvicultural practices is essential for improving growth, optimizing rotation cycles, and ensuring sustainability for native tree species.

Short notes. INFLUENCE OF WOOD ANATOMY ON THE DISTRIBUTION OF GUANIDINE BASED FIRE RETARDANTS IN FIVE FAST GROWING JAPANESE HARDWOODS

This study investigates the influence of wood anatomy on the distribution of fire retardant chemicals in five fast-growing Japanese hardwood species (Melia azedarach, Toona sinensis, Choerospondias axillaris, Alnus japonica, and Liriodendron tulipifera). Given Japan's increasing demand for sustainable and locally sourced materials, fire retardant treatments are critical for enhancing fire resistance in fast-growing hardwoods used for construction. Using low vacuum scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we examined the distribution of fire retardants in cross-section, radial section, and tangential sections, comparing the effectiveness in ring-porous versus diffuse-porous species. Results revealed that diffuse-porous species (Alnus japonica and Liriodendron tulipifera) retained higher levels of fire retardants with a more even distribution. In contrast, ring-porous species (Melia azedarach, Toona sinensis, Choerospondias axillaris) showed the highest chemical concentration at the edges.

Ethnobotanical study of plants used for traditional control of mosquitoes and other arthropod pests in the Ghibe valley, southwest Ethiopia

BackgroundMedicinal plants have been used in the traditional healthcare system of Ethiopia, including controlling human biting mosquitoes. However, documented knowledge on such aspects remains scarce. In this study, plants used in the traditional control of mosquitoes and other arthropod vectors with the local knowledge and method of applications in the Ghibe valley of southwest Ethiopia were documented.MethodsSemi-structured interviews were used to collect ethnobotanical data between March and October 2024. A total of 361 informants consisting of 77 key informants and 284 general informants were selected using purposive and systematic random sampling methods, respectively, in Enor, Deri Saja Zuria, Misha and Sekoru districts of southwest Ethiopia. Frequency of citation and simple preference ranking were employed to determine the most used insecticidal and insect repellent plants. Relative importance of multipurpose plants was assessed using direct matrix ranking exercises. Independent samples t-test and one-way ANOVA tests were conducted to compare knowledge of informants on insecticidal and insect repellent plants.ResultsA total of 53 plant species were used to control human biting insects. The most cited plant was Allium sativum L., (cited by 89%) followed by Croton macrostachyus Hochst. ex Delile (81%), Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata (Wall.G.Don) Cif. (77%), Coleus abyssinicus (Fresen.) A.J.Paton (69%; n = 361), Calpurnia aurea (Aiton) Benth. (63%), Juniperus procera Hochst. ex Endl. (63%), Echinops kebericho Mesfin (58%), Eucalyptus globulus Labill (56%), Melia azedarach L. (52%) and Phytolacca dodecandra L'Hér. (36%). The results of the current study showed that different informant groups had considerably different level of knowledge on traditional usage of insecticidal and insect repellent plants.ConclusionsPlant species Eucalyptus globulus, Calpurnia aurea, Phytolacca dodecandra, Echinops kebericho, Croton macrostachyus and Juniperus procera were more frequently cited to be insecticides against human biting arthropods while Melia azedarach L., Olea europaea subsp. cuspidata, Coleus abyssinicus, Croton macrostachyus, Eucalyptus globulus, Lippia abyssinica (Otto & A. Dietr.) Cufod., and Juniperus procera were more frequently reported to be repellents. Some of these plants (Coleus abyssinicus, Croton macrostachyus and Echinops kebericho) have not yet been investigated in depth and thus require scientific evaluation for their efficacy as insecticides and or repellents against malaria-transmitting mosquitoes in Ethiopia.

Urban Parks and Native Trees: A Profitable Strategy for Carbon Sequestration and Climate Resilience

Urban green spaces are increasingly recognized for their potential to mitigate climate change by reducing atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases, especially carbon dioxide (CO2). However, enhancing carbon sequestration efficiency in limited urban green areas remains a significant challenge for sustainable urban planning. Trees are among the most cost-effective and efficient natural carbon sinks, surpassing other types of land cover in terms CO2 absorption and storage. The present study aimed to evaluate the carbon sequestration potential of four native tree species, Pongamia pinnata, Azadirachta indica, Melia azedarach, and Dalbergia sissoo, in urban parks across Multan City, Pakistan. A total of 456 trees of selected species within six parks of Multan City were inventoried to estimate the biomass and carbon stock using species-specific allometric equations. Soil organic carbon at two soil depths beneath the canopy of each tree was also estimated using Walkley–Black method. The findings revealed that the highest mean tree biomass (2.16 Mg ha−1), carbon stock (1.04 Mg ha−1) and carbon sequestration (3.80 Mg ha−1) were estimated for Dalbergia sissoo, while Melia azedarach exhibited the lowest (0.12 Mg ha−1, 0.06 Mg ha−1 & 0.23 Mg ha−1, respectively) across all six parks. The soil carbon stocks ranged from 48.86 Mg ha−1 to 61.68 Mg ha−1 across all study sites. These findings emphasize the importance of species selection in urban green planning for carbon sequestration. Strategic planting of effective native trees like Dalbergia sissoo can mitigate climate change and provide urban forest ecosystem services.

Delineation in Melia Species: Review and Findings

The Melia genus comprises several species, including Melia azedarach, Melia dubia, Melia volkensii which are widely distributed across different geographical regions and exhibit considerable morphological similarities. Despite their economic, ecological, and medicinal significance, the taxonomic status and species boundaries within the Melia genus have been a matter of contention. Various factors, such as hybridization, geographical variation, and phenotypic plasticity, contribute to the complexity of species identification in this genus. Accurate delineation of Melia species is vital for several reasons as it enables us to understand the evolutionary relationships and genetic diversity within the genus, providing insights into its evolutionary history and potential future adaptation. The taxonomic status of Melia is uncertain because of its variable anatomical and morphological features. So, integrative approach using traditional taxonomic methods with molecular techniques is mandatory to address the challenges associated with Melia species delineation. The presence of cultivated varieties and morphotypes has added to ongoing species complexity between Melia dubia and Melia azedarach. The objective of this review is to overview useful approaches that may successfully discriminate between Melia dubia and Melia azedarach and provide a significant comprehension for conservation endeavours in Melia genus. The review also incorporates preliminary research findings from the author’s ongoing investigation into this subject.

Evaluation of the Efficacy of Chemical and Non-chemical Insecticides Against Onion Thrips in Field Conditions

Onion thrips pose a significant threat to onion crops worldwide through their feeding habits, which can lead to visible damage and potential yield loss. ‌This research aimed to investigate the effects of chemical and non-chemical insecticides on the management of onion thrips. This experimental study was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul University, to evaluate the efficacy of different chemical insecticides, a botanical insecticide, attractive plant, and intercropping for the management of onion thrips (Thrips tabaci) (Thysanoptera; Thripidae) on onion crops in 2023. Seven treatments were applied with three replications in a randomized complete block design. The first data collection occurred on July 12, 24 hours before the application of insecticides. Subsequent data were recorded 24 hours, 72 hours, and 7 days after each spray application. Three chemical insecticides were tested: carbaryl (Sevin® 85% WP) at a rate of 650 g/hectare, cyhalothrin (2.5% EC) at a rate of 550 ml/hectare, and cypermethrin (10% EC) at a rate of 400 ml/hectare. Additionally, a botanical insecticide derived from Melia azedarach (water extract of seeds) was applied at a rate of 12 L/hectare. After three applications, carbaryl showed significant efficacy compared to the other two chemical insecticides, while the botanical insecticide did not yield significant results. Attractive plants and intercropping demonstrated significant results when the leaves of the onions began to harden.

English

Sewage water is one of the leading causes of pollution in developing countries. The key concern is its use for irrigating agriculture crops including vegetables and fruits in many low-and middle-income countries. Sewage water not only pollutes the land but also contaminates the edible produce due to accumulation of heavy metals and other poisonous material. This study not only provided a nature-based solution for disposal of toxic sewage water but also offered an economically viable option for urban forestry. Five tree species, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Populus deltoides, Pinus roxburgii, Platanus orientalis, and Melia azedarach were selected for the evaluation of growth performance and heavy metals accumulation. One-year-old saplings of these tree species were transplanted into pots and applied with fresh water (T0), 100 percent sewage water (T1) and 50 percent sewage water (T2). This study concluded that Eucalyptus and Populus species performed remarkably well in terms of biomass and heavy metals accumulation. Melia and Platanus are relatively slow-growing thus their biomass accumulation was lower than Eucalyptus and Populus but their heavy metal accumulation was ample. Heavy metal accumulations in plants were observed the most where watered with T1. The highest amount of Arsenic was 1.44 mg L-1 and Cobalt was 0.08 mg L-1 in Eucalyptus plants with T1. Zinc was under the safe limits in all samples analyzed, Lead was 137.37 mg L-1 in Eucalyptus plants with T1, very high compared to safe limits defined by World Health Organization (WHO). We recommend planting Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Populus deltoides, and Melia azedarach species for urban forestry in the Abbottabad region, using sewage water for irrigation.

Comparative genomics provides insights into the biogeographic and biochemical diversity of meliaceous species

Meliaceous plants such as Azadirachta indica (neem) and Melia azedarach (chinaberry) contain large amounts of limonoids with unique anti-insect activities. However, genes responsible for downstream modifications of limonoids are not well known. Here, we improve the genome assemblies of neem and chinaberry to the telomere-to-telomere (T2T) level. Allopatric speciation of the two plants is confirmed by the lineage-specific inversion of chromosome 12 in the neem lineage. We further identify two BAHD-acetyltransferases (ATs) in chinaberry (MaAT8824 and MaAT1704) that catalyse acetylation at both the C-12 and C-3 hydroxyl groups of limonoids, whereas the syntenic neem copy (AiAT0635) does not possess this activity. A critical N-terminal region (SAGAVP) is crucial for the acetylation of AiAT0635, and swapping it into the MaAT8824 version (CHRSSG) can endow it with acetylation activity. Our improved genome assemblies provide insights into allopatric speciation of neem, as well as limonoid biosynthesis and chemical diversity in meliaceous plants.

Bio-efficacy of plant extracts against a major stored grain insect pest bruchid beetle F. Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae)

A considerable portion of crops is lost due to the use of non-selective crop protection agents. Consequently, there is growing pressure on the agrochemical industry to develop new crop protection solutions that are both environmentally friendly and safe for consumers. The current study investigates the bio-efficacy of plant extracts (Melia azedarach L., Nicotiana rustica L., Azadirachta indica L., Nicotiana tabacum L., and Thuja orientalis L.,) against Callosbruchus maculatus. The extracts of these plants were tested at six different concentrations (5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30%) using distilled water as a control. The experiments were replicated four times. Overall mean minimum oviposition (131.75), adult emergence (73.78%), infestations (28.14%) and host seed weight loss (12.54%) were observed with N. tabacum. Contact and residual methods were used to evaluate the toxic effects of the plant extract after 24-, 48-, 72- and 96-hours’ exposure period. The LC50 and LC90 values were determined by probit analysis. In case of residual toxicity, out of the five plant species extract, N. tabacum was the most toxic against C. maculatus with LC50 of 0.92% and LC90 of 4.77 % respectively. In contact toxicity N. tabacum was found effective against C. maculatus with LC50 of 0.14% and LC90 of 1.59% respectively. Alkaloids, saponins, di-terphenes, phyto-sterol, flavonoids and phenols were detected in the aqueous extracts of selected plant species. The current study highlights the efficacy of N. tabacum, N. rustica and A. indica for the management of C. maculatus. Further investigation is therefore necessary to evaluate the potential of these plant species for the production of new bio-pesticides as safer and eco-friendlier alternative to synthetic pesticides.

Diagnóstico das plantas arbóreas utilizadas na arborização urbana da Praça do Imigrante, Tenente Portela-RS

Praças são criadas com a finalidade de tornar o ambiente propício ao lazer possibilitando valores ambientais, funcionais, estéticos e simbólicos. Contudo, falta de planejamento no emprego de muitas espécies, que possuem características indesejáveis, agravam o risco de invasão biológica em ecossistemas próximos. Dessa forma, o objetivo foi analisar a arborização da Praça do Imigrante, localizada no município de Tenente Portela/RS. Foi realizado o inventário arbóreo quali-quantitativo do tipo censo. Buscou-se pela distribuição das espécies na praça; DAP/indivíduo e situação fitossanitária. A vegetação, apresentou sete espécies em cinco famílias, totalizando 39 indivíduos. As espécies exóticas de maior frequência foram Jacaranda mimosifolia, Ligustrum lucidum, Cinnamomum verum e Melia azedarach, responsáveis por 57,1% do total dos indivíduos. Referente as espécies nativas, Peltophorum dubium, Handroanthus sp. e Caesalpinia peltophoroides, totalizaram 42,9%. Ligustrum lucidum e Melia azedarach são espécies que apresentam potenciais alergênicos e toxicológicos. Não foram constatados indivíduos mortos. De modo geral, as árvores demonstraram boa condição fitossanitária, apesar de algumas espécies, como Ligustrum e Handroanthus apresentarem galhos quebrados, danificações, raízes amostra, expostas, e injúrias nos troncos. A média de DAP dos indivíduos foi de 31,9 cm. Sugere-se que espécies exóticas e que possuem algum tipo de potencial alérgico/tóxico sejam evitadas na arborização, sendo indicada a substituição gradativa desses indivíduos por nativas, as quais apresentem características ecológicas compatíveis com meio urbano, a fim de não causar nenhum tipo de malefício à saúde da população que frequenta a Praça do Imigrante.

Phytochemical and Antibacterial Efficacy of Medicinal Plant Extracts against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae

Rice is one of the most extensively cultivated and economically significant crops worldwide. However, bacterial blight, is caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, poses a significant threat, leading to considerable yield losses. The rising challenge of antibiotic resistance among bacterial pathogens in plant, including Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae, underscores the need to explore sustainable alternatives to synthetic chemicals. This study investigates the phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of leaf extracts from six medicinal plants: Azadirachta indica, Melia azedarach, Pongamia glabra, Lawsonia inermis, Mentha piperita, and Ocimum basilicum. Phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, cardiac glycosides, phenols, and saponins in varying combinations. The antibacterial activity was evaluated using the well-diffusion method at 10 per cent and 20 per cent concentrations. Among the aqueous extracts, Pongamia glabra demonstrated the highest antibacterial potential, with a zone of inhibition (ZOI) of 11.83 ± 0.10 mm at 20 per cent concentration, corresponding to a relative per cent inhibition (RPI) of 73.96 per cent and an activity index (AI) of 0.74. Melia azedarach followed, exhibiting a ZOI of 10.25 ± 0.22 mm (RPI = 64.06%, AI = 0.64). Similar trends were observed with methanolic extracts, where Pongamia glabra and Melia azedarach showed the strongest activity. The positive control (Streptocycline, 100 ppm) produced a ZOI of 16.00 ± 0.45 mm, validating the experimental setup, while the negative control Dimethyl salphoxide (DMSO) showed no inhibitory effect. The results highlight the potential of locally available medicinal plants, particularly Pongamia glabra and Melia azedarach, as eco-friendly anti-microbial agents against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae.

STIMULASI KOLONISASI CENDAWAN MIKORIZA ARBUSKULA PADA SEMAI MINDI (Melia azedarach LINN) DENGAN APLIKASI KOMPOS AKTIF PADA MEDIA TAILING TAMBANG EMAS

Tailing is one of the most abundant wastes from gold mining process. This material usually has a high concentration of some heavy metal such as Pb and Fe, insufficient of some essential elements, and a low caption exchange capacity, organic mater and prohibit microorganism growth. In order to improve rehabilitation tailing area by revegetation, utilization of plant root symbiotic organism, arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF), have been introduced. Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi, however, need to be support to encourage its colonization to host plant in tailing media. The objectives of this research were to determine the effect of activated compost application on tailing media to spora density and colonization of arbuscular mycorrhiza on host plant (Melia azedarach seedling) as well as its MEI. Three factors complete randomised experimental design was conducted under green house conditions and DMR Test was used to analyse of the effect of tailing, compost and kinds of AM treatment. Percent of AM colonization to mindi seedling root, AM spore number in media, and Mycorrhiza inoculation effect were measured in this experiment. Application of activated compost on tailing media increased colonization of NPI 126 (Glomus etunicatum) up to 4 times. This treatment also increased spore number and improve colonization of local AM fungi. The positif of Mycorrhiza inoculation effect (MIE) value was found on tailing media and mix media without actif compost. Active a Compost application is potential to improve the AMF role in order to increase the plant growth quality.