Pot Culture Research Articles

Impact of management technologies on banana growth and fusarium wilt mitigation

The study was conducted during 2023-2024 under the Department of Fruit Science, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore. The objective of the study was to find out the best technology for the Fusarium wilt management in the banana cultivar Rasthali under pot culture experiment. The experiment was conducted with nine treatments replicated thrice with three plants in each replication in a completely randomized design (CRD). The treatment T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) +Salicylic acid 5mM spray showed more root length (71.89 cm) and number of roots (30) than other treatments. The treatment T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5mM spray showed a 33 % improvement in root length over absolute control (T1) and a 53 % increase over inoculated control (T2). Whereas the number of roots was 50% more in T7 than in T1 and 76 % more than in T2. The length of the pseudostem and girth of the pseudostem were 69.40 cm and 25.43 cm. The leaf area was 2.99 m2 and the number of leaves was 12. The physiological parameters such as chlorophyll content (57.03), stomatal resistance (0.521 Scm-1) and transpiration rate (9.572 ?g H2O cm2 S-1) of T7 were significant. In soil enzymes, the chitinase activity was 37.50 ?mol/min/g and ? 1, 3 Glucanase 40.33 ?mol/min/g. It showed less disease incidence (DI %) of 18.86 % and a disease severity index (DSI %) of 14.73 %. The absolute control (T1), without the pathogen, had no disease. The inoculated control (T2) showed the highest disease incidence and disease severity index of 100 %. T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5 mM spray showed less disease incidence (DI %) of 18.86 %and a disease severity index (DSI%) of 22.93 % over the absolute control (T1). And 81.14 % and 77.07 % reduced disease incidence (DI %) and disease severity index (DSI %) compared to inoculated control (T2). It is concluded that T7- Bacillus subtilis (10 g/plant) + Salicylic acid 5 mM spray can be used to control Fusarium wilt in cultivar Rasthali.

Bio Efficacy of Certain Botanical Extracts, Oils and Acaricide Against Two Spotted Spider Mites [Tetranychus urticae (Koch)] on Okra

Field and pot culture experiments were conducted Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu, India during 2012 - 2013 to evaluate the bio efficacy of certain botanical extracts, oils and acaricides against two spotted spider mite (TSSM) Tetranychus urticae (Koch) on okra. Vitex negundo leaf extract, Clerodendron inermea leaf extract, Wedelia chinensis leaf extract, Neem oil, Pungam oil, Pinnai oil, Illupai oil, NSKE, Dicofol and Fenezaquin were used for the study. The maximum mite population was observed in 5% W. chinensis leaf extract (15.08) sprayed plants followed by, 5% C. inermea leaf extract (13.95), 3% illupai oil (11.86) and NSKE 5% (11. 67) respectively. Amoderate mite population was observed in 5% V. negundo leaf extract (10.70), 3% pungam oil (10.05), 3% pinnai oil (9.53) and 3% neem oil (9.05) sprayed plants respectively. Whereas the least mite population was observed in dicofol 0.2% (8.13) and fenezaquin 0.2% (8.01) sprayed okra plants.

Evaluation of Rice Genotypes for Tolerance to Imazethapyr Herbicide in Direct-Seeded Rice Systems

Aims: The aim of this study was to evaluate the resistance of different rice genotypes to the herbicide imazethapyr. Study Design: Pot culture experiment. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in pot culture at the Department of Agronomy, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Kharif 2024. Methodology: Pot culture experiment was conducted with three replications by using fourteen rice genotypes (G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G8, G9, G10, G11, G12, G13, and G14) to assess the phyto-toxicity tolerance. A herbicide spray was applied at the 2-3 leaf stage of weeds in the pot culture. Imazethapyr 10% SL was used at a concentration of 2.5 ml/L, applied at 23 days after sowing (DAS). The herbicide solution was prepared by adding 5 ml of Imazethapyr to 2 L of water. The spray was applied using a 500 ml capacity hand sprayer. The experiment was carried out under controlled (Field) environmental conditions to assess the response of rice genotypes in terms of phytotoxicity, including any visual damage or growth reduction caused by the herbicide treatment. The data collected were used to identify tolerant and susceptible rice genotypes to imazethapuyr herbicide. Results: The results revealed significant variation in tolerance among the rice genotypes. Genotype G14 exhibited the highest tolerance, displaying minimal phytotoxicity symptoms such as chlorosis and necrosis, and showed no adverse effects on growth. Moderate tolerance was observed in genotypes G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, and G8, which exhibited some injury but were able to recover and maintain growth potential. In contrast, the susceptible genotypes G9, G10, G11, G12, and G13 showed severe phytotoxicity symptoms and completely dried out. Conclusion: The tolerant genotypes G1, G2, G3, G4, G5, G6, G7, G8 and G14, can be utilized for further rice breeding programme for the development of herbicide tolerant rice varieties.

Identification of native <i>Trichoderma</i> for augmentation of plant growth in geographical indication tagged fragrant Shankarpura jasmine [<i>Jasminum sambac</i> (L.) Aiton

Over the last few years, Trichoderma has attained immense practical value as an important input in crop production due to its multifunctional beneficial functions. Our objective was to identify the best-performing native isolate of Trichoderma which can adapt quickly to the introduced area and have a beneficial effect on the crop. This research was the first report on the use of biological input in improving the growth of the Geographical Indication (GI) tagged fragrant Shankarpura jasmine crop. From the representative rhizosphere soils of Shankarpura jasmine plants, six representative Trichoderma isolates were isolated using a Trichoderma-specific medium. Their ability to enhance the germination percentage of green gram seeds was evaluated under in vitro conditions. Trichoderma isolates WT 15 and WT 14 showed 99.55±0.41 and 96.57±0.91 percent germination, respectively 17 hours after treatment application. The isolate WT15 synthesized maximum IAA and isolate WT 14 produced maximum GA content compared to other isolates which were tested. These isolates also exhibited antagonism against Fusarium solani. These isolates also improved the growth of jasmine plants under pot culture condition. The isolate WT -14 was subjected to ITS 1 and 4 sequencing and based on those results it was identified as Trichoderma lixii.

Influence of Nano Urea on Growth Yield and Nutrient Uptake of Blackgram

Background: There is no doubt that the enormous increase in global food production is a direct result of greater use of inorganic fertilizers. However, a number of research studies indicate that the rising use of conventional fertilizers has resulted in major environmental risks, including soil and water body contamination. Nanotechnology and nano-fertilizers have recently been used in agriculture to create healthier solutions. Therefore, there is a pressing need to improve the N availability for plants, while reducing its harmful effects to the soil and environment. Methods: Keeping this point of view, the pot culture experiment was carried out to study the “Impact of nano-urea (Liquid) on blackgram (VBN 8) (Vigna mungo L.) Productivity” with an objective of study the influence of Nano-Urea on growth and yield attributes of Blackgram. The experiment was conducted at Vanavarayar Institute of Agriculture, Pollachi during the Kharif (June-September) season of 2022 and 2023. The treatment includes application of various level of nano urea (1.25 litres ha-1) as foliar spray and soil application along with recommended dose of P and K in comparison with RDF and control (without any nutrient). The treatments were replicated three times in a completely randomized block design. Result: Among the different treatment combination, application of nano-urea (Liquid) 1.25 litres ha-1 as Foliar Spray (FS) (IFFCO) + P and K RDF (T2) resulted in higher pod weight (4.1 and 6.2 g plant-1) and seed weight (3.2 and 3.6 g plant-1) in 2022 and 2023, respectively. Application of nano-urea (Liquid) 1.25 litres ha-1 as Foliar Spray (FS) + PandK RDF responded equally with RDF + Urea 1% foliar spray on better growth and development of blackgram. At the critical juncture, adequate nitrogen from nano-urea would have ensured a steady supply of nitrogen, stimulating meristematic activity and cell elongation in plants and improving the crop performance.

Remediation of a diesel contaminated soil by means of anionic and non-ionic surfactants: Effect on soil phosphorus availability and Vicia Faba L. growth.

In the present study, the effectiveness of two surfactants (Polysorbate 80 - Tween 80 and Sodium Dodecyl Benzensulphonate - SDBS) was investigated for the remediation of a hydrocarbon-contaminated soil. Moreover, it was elucidated the impact of surfactants on soil phosphorus (P) availability and phytotoxic effect on the growth of Vicia Faba L. An experimental laboratory-scale apparatus (bench and pilot scale) was set up for the simulation of a soil flushing intervention. Different surfactant concentrations and flushing flow rates were investigated. Hydrocarbon extraction efficiency was evaluated after treatment and phytotoxicity tests were performed by means of germination index (GI). The treated soil with the pilot scale apparatus was then used for Vicia Faba (faba beans) cultivation in pots. The growth of Vicia Faba plants was monitored and, at the end of the growth period, the plants were uprooted and subjected to biometric and chemical analyses. Results highlighted that the use of surfactants significantly increased the efficiency of hydrocarbons extraction compared to flushing test with water (19.6%, 53.9%, and 65.6% for water, 0.1% by weight of Tween 80 and SDBS, respectively, at pilot scale). Referring to Vicia Faba L., the plants grown in the blank control and in the soil treated with Tween 80 reached the same average height thus suggesting that this surfactant does not inhibit plant growth. In contrast, the lowest plant growth occurred in the soils treated with SDBS; this suggests a negative impact on plant growth. Due to the reduced plant growth, total P uptake was the lowest in plants grown in SDBS-treated soils, although such soils experienced a 20% increase of soil available P. This increase could be ascribed to P supplied by the surfactant or high P availability as a consequence of soil pH decrease.

Chemotaxis of rhizosphere Pseudomonas sp. induced by foliar spraying of lanthanum reduces cadmium uptake by pakchoi.

Foliar application of rare earth micronutrient of lanthanum (La) exhibits great potential in reducing cadmium (Cd) uptake in crops, the underlying mechanisms controlling the interaction between Cd toxicity-relieved crops and soil microbiota are poorly understood. In this study, LaCl3 with the concentrations of 10 and 30μM was sprayed on pakchoi (Brassica chinensis L.) planting on Cd contaminated solution and soil to determine the changes of root metabolites and rhizosphere bacterial communities. Compared to the control, Cd concentration in pakchoi leaves was significantly decreased by 30.9% and 22.6% with the high group under both hydroponic and pot culture by applying 30μM LaCl3. Herein, the concrete evidence is provided that pakchoi plants in response to foliar-spraying La under soil or solution Cd toxicity can promote the root secretion of amino acids, resulting in a strong enrichment of nitrogen-related microorganisms. To probe this linkage, a Pseudomonas representative specie was isolated that had the ability of consuming alanine, the most oversecreted root exudate due to La application. Further results demonstrated that this strain had the capacities for alleviating Cd toxicity and enhancing crop growth by immobilizing Cd and secreting plant-beneficial metabolites. This study reveals a plant-extrudate-microbiome feedback loop for responding to La-relieved Cd toxicity in crops by the chemotaxis of rhizosphere Pseudomonas toward alanine secreted by pakchoi.

Bioconversion of coir ETP sludge: An eco-friendly path to circular economy

The accumulation of sludge from Effluent Treatment Plants (ETPs) in coir industries has become a serious concern, raising critical questions about the eco-friendly management of large volumes of coir industry ETP sludge in coir-producing countries like India. This study aimed to explore a viable solution for bioprocessing the sludge and assess its potential as a soil amendment. Based on the C: N ratio and the initial characteristics of the ETP sludge, cow dung, and poultry manure were identified as potential amendments for sustainable bioconversion. The mixture was inoculated with TNAU Biomineralizer, a specialized culture that aids in decomposition. The bioconversion experiment used six treatment combinations (T1 to T6) to monitor nutrient transformations. Compost from treatment T6 (50% Sludge + 25% Poultry Manure + 25% Cow Dung + TNAU Biomineralizer) exhibited a significant improvement in nutrient content. The efficacy of the composted sludge was further assessed through a pot culture experiment using the Amaranthus variety CO 6, where different proportions of the composted sludge were applied alongside recommended agricultural practices. The results revealed that treatment T8 (100% Composted Sludge + Silica Solubilizing Bacteria) and the recommended package of practices combined with 100% Composted sludge significantly enhanced growth parameters, including root length, shoot length, and the number of leaves, outperforming other treatments. This study highlights that the bioconversion of coir industry ETP sludge with organic amendments and TNAU Biomineralizer offers a sustainable and eco-friendly solution, presenting a promising approach to advancing the circular economy.

Histopathological and biochemical variations in resistant and susceptible black pepper cultivars infected with Meloidogyne incognita

Plant-parasitic nematodes cause yield losses ranging from 30 to 65% in black pepper. Root-knot nematodes are a bottleneck in production of black pepper in Kerala, India. Identifying resistant cultivars have gained attention, as they provide an eco-friendly alternative to chemical nematicides. This study aimed to identify a root-knot nematode-resistant black pepper cultivar and determine the biochemical and histopathological changes caused by the nematode. Twenty-six black pepper cultivars (10 KAU released, 2 wild and 14 local) were screened for nematode resistance under pot culture conditions. The local cultivar Koshinadan exhibited resistance to Meloidogyne incognita (gall index 2), while the hybrid variety Panniyur 1 showed high susceptibility (gall index 5). Analysis of the biochemical basis of resistance revealed enhanced level of phenol content and activity of peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase, and polyphenol oxidase in leaves and roots of Koshinadan compared to susceptible cultivar, Panniyur 1. Histopathological studies of the most resistant (Koshinadan) and susceptible (Panniyur 1) cultivars revealed that giant cells formed near the vascular region at different inoculum levels (0, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, 10000 J2 pot-1). The number and size of giant cells were lower in Koshinadan compared to Panniyur 1 and complete disorganization of xylem and phloem vessels was observed in the susceptible Panniyur 1. The resistant cultivar identified can serve as rootstock for grafting high-yielding varieties, resulting in nematode free seedlings.

Physiological evaluation of nano DAP on growth and yield of tomato

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), a solanaceous crop, is widely cultivated worldwide. This study evaluates the impact of Nano DAP (diammonium phosphate) on morpho-physiological traits, biochemical properties, yield, and quality parameters. Eight treatments comprising varying proportions of DAP and Nano DAP were evaluated for traits including plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll index, total dry matter production, gas exchange parameters, leaf soluble protein, total soluble solids (TSS), ascorbic acid, titratable acidity, firmness and fruit yield. The hybrid tomato variety 'Shivam' was cultivated in pot culture under a glasshouse at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, using a completely randomized design with five replications. Foliar sprays with different proportions of nano DAP and DAP were applied 30 and 45 days after transplanting. Among the treatments, 75% RDNP (recommended nitrogen and phosphorus dose) combined with two foliar sprays of nano DAP @ 0.7% (T5) significantly increased plant height (48.90 cm and 54.31 cm), chlorophyll index (40.05 and 42.15), dry matter production (55.45 g plant?¹), TSS (5.52 Brix), fruit production, and ascorbic acid content. This treatment also improved gas exchange parameters, fruit firmness, and overall `growth and productivity compared to other treatments. Conversely, the absolute control group demonstrated the lowest performance across all parameters. The study highlights that combining both conventional fertilizers with Nano DAP considerably improves tomato growth by enhancing nutrient absorption, particularly nitrogen and phosphorus, which are essential for cell division, photosynthesis, and energy transfer. Nano DAP, due to its small particle size and large surface area, effectively penetrates plant tissues, increasing nutrient availability, chlorophyll content, and plant height. These findings underscore the potential of Nano DAP to substantially enhance tomato yield and quality, thereby contributing to sustainable crop production.

Exploring the potentiality of botanicals and phyllosphere microbiome for the management of anthracnose disease in Black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper)

Black gram (Vigna mungo L. Hepper) is the third most important pulse crop, and its yield is reduced due to many diseases. Among them, anthracnose is one of the devasting global fungal diseases which cause severe damage. Use of fungicide is highly effective in controlling this disease, but continuous use of fungicides is unsafe for environment, and it causes fungicidal resistance. To overcome these problems, effect of plant extracts viz., Anisomeles malabarica, Azadirachta indica leaf extracts, phyllosphere antagonist Bacillus amyloliquifaciens, and essential oils viz., peppermint oil and lemon grass oil were evaluated against black gram anthracnose disease caused by Colletotrichum lindimuthianum under pot culture. Among the different treatments tested, plants sprayed with standard chemical viz., Carbendazim @ 0.2 percent recorded the least percent disease index (PDI) of 13.39 followed by A. malabarica leaf extract (10%) treatments, which recorded a PDI of 16.62, whereas plants treated with B. amyloliquifaciens, lemongrass oil and peppermint oil recorded a PDI of 20.91, 21.23 and 24.0, respectively, compared to the inoculated control (77.33 PDI). The induction of defense enzymes viz., phenol, peroxidase (PO), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) was recorded more (21.25 µg of catechol/g of leaf tissue, 3.82 changes in absorbance/min/g leaf tissue, 3.32 changes in absorbance/min/g leaf tissue, respectively) in the plants sprayed with A. malabarica. GC-MS analysis of hexane and ethanol extract of A. malabarica showed the presence of 26 phytocompounds. Among them, phenol 2,4- bis (1,1- dimethylethyl) phosphite from ethanol extract was a predominant compound (100%). Formulation and standardization of dosage for phenol 2,4- bis (1,1- dimethylethyl) phosphite compound will be useful for managing the disease effectively.

Starch-based nanoformulation of rhizobium enhancing growth, nodulation, and yield in black gram

Black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper) is a significant pulse crop due to its nutritional value and productivity within the Indian subcontinent. Pulses possess the inherent ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil through a symbiotic association with the Rhizobium, a genus of essential soil microorganisms that facilitate nitrogen fixation in legumes. However, conventional biofertilizers encounter challenges related to limited shelf life, reduced cellular viability, and inefficacy of carriers. This research investigates the encapsulation of Rhizobium using starch nanoparticles and sodium alginate to mitigate these drawbacks. The nanoformulations was assessed, with a mean droplet size and polydispersity index of 292 nm and 0.056, respectively. FTIR analysis confirmed the successful incorporation of all functional components. SEM imaging illustrated a uniform distribution of the formulation over the seed coat. Release kinetics displayed an initial burst release, followed by controlled and sustained release phases. The nanoformulations effectively protects the cells from adverse conditions in soil with different pH levels. A pot culture experiment with Black gram was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of the nanoformulations. The findings indicated significant enhancements in growth parameters, nodulation, and yield characteristics compared to the control and conventional treatments. The highest dosage of nanoformulation at the rate of 15ml/8Kg (T6) consistently surpassed other treatments, demonstrating improved shoot and root lengths, chlorophyll content, soluble protein, and enzyme activities. Treatment T6 gains the highest nodule count (approx. 100/plant) and maximized yield parameters. This investigation highlights the potential of Rhizobium nanoformulations in promoting plant growth, nodulation, and yield in black gram. It offers a promising strategy for sustainable agricultural practices and addresses the limitations of traditional biofertilizers.

Unravelling the role of Black Soldier Fly Frass (BSFF) in nutrient enrichment and growth promotion of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)

The decomposition of organic waste by Black Soldier Fly (BSF) plays a potential role in plant growth promotion and soil nutrient enrichment. This study investigated the effect of different compost from food waste, vegetable & fruit waste, cow manure, pig manure, poultry manure, TNPL (Tamil Nadu Newsprint and Papers Limited) bio sludge and combinations of these materials induced varied growth promotion on groundnut. A pot culture experiment evaluated shoot length, root length, germination percentage, plant biomass and vigour index. The best results were observed in the treatment combining hostel food waste and vegetable waste (50 %) with poultry manure (50 %) (T7), showing a shoot length of 20.34 cm, vigour index of 3629, plant biomass of 24.3 g, and germination percentage of 93.33%. Other treatments, such as food waste (T1) and vegetable and fruit waste (T2), showed vigour indices of 2561.6 and 2692.9, respectively, while the untreated control had the lowest vigour index of 900.4. Nutrient analysis of T7 compost revealed high levels of nitrogen (462 kg/ha), phosphorus (375 kg/ha), potassium (320 kg/ha) and micronutrients like iron (29.04 ppm) and zinc (7.58 ppm). GC-MS analysis identified growth-promoting compounds like Cyclohexanol (64.3 %), Glycerol (3.9 %) and Dibutyl phthalate (1.49 %). Metabolite set enrichment analysis (MSEA) highlighted pathways like fatty acid biosynthesis and glycerolipid metabolism, which support root development and stress tolerance. The results indicated that BSF compost, especially from food and vegetable waste with poultry manure, significantly enhances soil fertility and plant growth, providing a sustainable solution for organic waste management.

Optimizing Cowpea Cultivation in Saline Hydromorphic Soils: A Sustainable Approach for Kaipad Agroecosystems

Kaipad lands, a distinct coastal agro-ecosystem located in northern Malabar, Kerala, are characterized by saline-prone hydromorphic soils that pose significant challenges for traditional rice cultivation. The unique conditions of periodic waterlogging and salinity necessitate the exploration of alternative crops to enhance agricultural sustainability. This study investigates the suitability of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L Walp) as a resilient leguminous crop for cultivation in traditionally organic rice growing problematic soils. Cowpea, known for its adaptability to diverse environmental conditions, nutritional value, and economic importance, presents a promising option for farmers facing the limitations of organic rice production. A pot culture experiment was conducted to assess the impact of potassium solubilizing bacteria (KSB) on cowpea growth and yield in saline hydromorphic soils. Treatments included combinations of KSB with various potassium sources, such as feldspar and mica, used as alternate sources for potassic fertilizers. Results demonstrated that KSB significantly improved growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area, total dry matter production, and pod and grain yields, compared to control. Soil analysis revealed enhanced availability of potassium and other essential nutrients in KSB-treated soils, indicating a synergistic effect on nutrient solubilization in aerobic conditions. The findings suggest that cowpea, supported by KSB application, can be effectively cultivated in problematic Kaipad lands, offering a viable alternative to traditional rice farming while promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This research highlights the potential for diversifying crop production in saline-prone areas, ultimately contributing to food security and economic resilience in coastal agro-ecosystems.

Evaluation of root morphology in banana genotypes under sodic soil stress using RhizoVision software

Banana (Musa spp.) productivity is limited by sodic soils, which impairs root growth and nutrient uptake. Analyzing root traits under stress conditions can aid in identifying tolerant genotypes. This study investigates the root morphological traits of banana cultivars under sodic soil stress conditions using Rhizovision software. The pot culture experiment was laid out in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) under open field conditions, with treatments comprising the following varieties: Poovan (AAB), Udhayam (ABB), Karpooravalli (ABB), CO 3 (ABB), Kaveri Saba (ABB), Kaveri Kalki (ABB), Kaveri Haritha (ABB), Monthan (ABB), Nendran (AAB), and Rasthali (AAB), each replicated thrice. Parameters such as the number of roots, root tips, diameter, surface area, perimeter, and volume were assessed to evaluate the performance of different cultivars. The findings reveal that Karpooravali and Udhayam cultivars exhibited superior performance in terms of root morphology compared to other cultivars under sodic soil stress. These cultivars displayed increased root proliferation, elongation, and surface area, indicating their resilience to sodic soil stress. The utilization of Rhizovision software facilitated precise measurement and analysis of root traits, providing valuable insights into the adaptation mechanisms of banana cultivars to adverse soil conditions.

Impact of Carbon Dioxide Levels on Biochemical Parameters Associated with Stem Rot Disease in Groundnut

Background: Sclerotium rolfsii is a widespread soil-borne fungal pathogen recognized for causing disease in a wide variety of agricultural and horticultural crops globally. Despite the economic losses attributed to this pathogen, there are limited reports concerning the biochemical alterations in groundnut in response to increased carbon dioxide levels and pathogen interactions. Methods: A pot culture experiment was carried out at ICRISAT during the rabi season 2022-23 in Open Top Chambers (OTC) to assess the biochemical responses of groundnut to climate change and pathogen interactions. The study was carried out at three different carbon dioxide levels (400 ppm, 550 ppm and 700 ppm) using the susceptible groundnut cultivar TMV 2 and the moderately resistant cultivar ICGV-14082. Result: The levels of total phenols, oxalic acid, ascorbic acid, catalase, peroxidases, polyphenol oxidase, and chlorophyll content index were elevated in groundnut plants infected with stem rot due to increased carbon dioxide levels. The biochemical activity was high at its peak in inoculated plants on 4th and 6th day post-inoculation of the pathogen and gradually declined on 8th and 10th days.

Cannaboom: Race and Labor in California Cannabis Cultures

Encouraged by state requirements for prepackaging, Black and Latinx producers and distributors of legal cannabis in California have developed novel, symbolically and socially significant forms of marketing. Black and Latinx cannabis industries have developed their own “commodity aesthetics,” using product packaging, live events, and social media to entice buyers with a combination of beautiful sights, smells, textures, signs, and symbols that represent the contradictions of working-class Black and Latinx life in contemporary California. Black and Latinx cannabis popular cultures combine images of freedom and transcendence with depictions of the low wage jobs that many Black and Latinx people work. This is because, rather than an impediment to work, cannabis consumption is a kind of support for or accessory to labor. Many consumers use cannabis to dull the tedium and pain of labor and to sustain them throughout the workday. This essay provides a critical overview of Black and Latinx cannabis marketing in California, and its targeting of working-class consumers of color. While I discuss several examples, my central case study is the successful Black and Latinx cannabis distributor Teds Budz. I draw on interviews, ethnographies of live cannabis events, and visual studies of cannabis packages and social media, arguing that seemingly “escapist” qualities in cannabis culture critically foreground the material limits of the world from which Black and Latinx workers are trying to escape. Cannabis commodity aesthetics, I conclude, promise people of color an exit from the drudgery of work that can also tighten their ties to low wage jobs.

Myco-assisted phytoextraction of heavy metals with vetiver grass: a green technology for cleaning tannery effluent contaminated sites.

Metal toxicity affects practically all physiological systems of plants, both directly and indirectly. Amongst various techniques developed to remediate contaminated soils, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus (AMF)-assisted phytoremediation is an emerging and unexplored eco-sustainable strategy for controlling and managing soil contamination. Hence, this study aims at exploring the myco-assisted phytoremediation of tannery effluent contaminated soil. A pot culture study was carried out using three different strains of AMF and vetiver grass with soil obtained from the tannery effluent contaminated sites of Tamil Nadu, India (Vellore (S1) and Dindigul (S2)) which were rich in chromium (S1-128mgkg-1, S2-112mgkg-1), cadmium (S1-1.17mgkg-1, S2-2mgkg-1), nickel (S1-39mgkg-1, S2-14mgkg-1) and lead (S1-56mgkg-1, S2-30mgkg-1). Results revealed that inoculation of vetiver grass with AMF including R. intraradices (T3), G. mosseae (T2) and mixed (commercial) culture (T4) in the contaminated soil has significantly increased the growth and biomass of the vetiver plants but the level of action varied with the fungus. Amongst several treatments under study, R. intraradices (T3) inoculation in vetiver yielded in shoot biomass (31.76 t ha-1) which was 8%, 18.8%, and 31.2% higher than treatments T2, T4 and T1 respectively, and the root biomass (23.71 t ha-1) was 10.6%, 15.3%, 32% higher than T2, T4 and T1 respectively. Vetiver growing in T3 has higher total C stored in its roots and shoots (24.99%) than in control soil. Furthermore, T3's overall carbon stock is 24.94% larger facilitating carbon sequestration than control's (T1). Furthermore, it was observed that AMF inoculation significantly increased the phytoextraction potential of vetiver and reduced the translocation of metals into the shoots. The treatment T3 (R. intraradices) recorded Cr (19.99mgkg-1), Cd (0.1mgkg-1), Ni (9.43mgkg-1), and Pb (9.35mgkg-1) in the root portion in S1 and was higher to the tune of 89.8%,50%, 88.5%, and 75.9% respectively, compared to the shoot portion. Additionally, the antioxidant enzymes like superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were found relatively higher in control where the plant undergone much larger stress than the other treatments. Hence, it can be concluded that AMF could possibly enhance the growth of Vetiver by improving nutrient (nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium) uptake capability while reducing the heavy metal uptake and accumulation in the shoots eventually protecting the plants from stress and metal toxicity.

Synergy of biochar and biofertilizers to improve bell pepper fruit biochemical quality with increased soil carbon, Azospirillum population and mycorrhization

Sustainable crop production depends more on maintaining good soil health. Biochar significantly improves the soil's physical, chemical, biological and nutritional properties while aiding in carbon sequestration. Biofertilizers, which promote nutrient cycling, heavy metal chelation and the production of plant growth substances are crucial to sustainable agriculture. While the individual benefits of biochar and biofertilizers are well-documented, their combined effect in vegetable farming is less studied. The synergistic application of biochar and biofertilizers can improve soil health and nutrient dynamics, enhancing crops' biochemical properties. In a pot culture experiment, California Wonder bell peppers were treated with biochar and biofertilizers, including Azospirillum, Vesicular Arbuscular Mycorrhiza (VAM), and Serendipita indica. These were applied directly to the soil during transplanting. Results showed that plants treated with biochar + Azospirillum had higher flavonoid, total soluble protein and ascorbic acid content. Biochar + VAM treatment resulted in higher polyphenol content, total dry matter and root volume. S. indica reduced the vegetative period and induced earlier flowering. Biochar also increased soil organic carbon (2.89 %), improved the rhizosphere Azospirillum population and enhanced fungal endophytes' root colonization. Combining biochar and biofertilizer improves bell pepper plant performance, enhances biochemical parameters and improves soil health.

Insight into Antifungal Metabolites from Bacillus stercoris 92p Against Banana Cordana Leaf Spot Caused by Neocordana musae.

Banana crop ranks among the most crucial fruit and food crops in tropical and subtropical areas. Despite advancements in production technology, diseases such as cordana leaf spot, caused by Neocordana musae, remain a significant challenge, reducing productivity and quality. Traditional chemical controls are becoming less effective due to the development of resistance in target pathogens, which pose significant environmental and health concerns. Consequently, there is growing attention toward the development of biocontrol strategies. Here, we identified a new bacterial strain, Bacillus stercoris 92p, from the rhizosphere soil of banana. We evaluated its ability to suppress the growth of N. musae and other fungal pathogens that cause leaf spot disease in bananas. The inhibitory effect of B. stercoris 92p were checked using dual culture assays, microscopic observations, and pot experiments. Furthermore, the biocontrol mechanisms were investigated using whole-genome sequencing and biochemical analyses. The results showed that B. stercoris 92p exhibited significant antifungal activity against N. musae and other fungal pathogens, with inhibition rates exceeding 70%. Microscopic examination revealed significant morphological alterations in the hyphae and conidia of the tested pathogens. In pot experiments, B. stercoris 92p effectively reduced the severity of cordana leaf spot, achieving a biocontrol efficacy of 61.55%. Genomic analysis and biochemical tests indicated that B. stercoris 92p produces various antifungal compounds, including lipopeptides (fengycins and surfactins), hydrolytic enzymes (proteases and amylases), and phosphate-solubilizing metabolites. In conclusion, the study highlights that B. stercoris could potentially be used as a potential biological control agent against cordana leaf spot.