Treatment T1 Research Articles

Efficacy of spinetoram and flupyradifurone against bruchid on blackgram (Vigna mungo) under storage conditions

The effectiveness of various molecules, including spinetoram 11.7 sc and flupyradifurone 200 sl, along with chemical checks like emamectin benzoate 5 sg and deltamethrin 2.8 ec, was investigated for controlling bruchid infestation and preserving seed quality during ambient storage at University of Agricultural Sciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka (2021–22). After 9 months, spinetoram 11.7 sc at 25.6 mg/kg seeds (T3) demonstrated outstanding results compared to the control (T9). Treatment T3 exhibited the highest 100-seed weight (5.28 g), lowest seed moisture (9.64%), and the highest germination rate (82%). Additionally, treatment T3 showed maximum shoot length, root length, mean seedling length, and mean seedling dry weight. The electrical conductivity (EC) of seed leachate was significantly lower in T3 (834 µS/cm) treatment, highlighting its superiority. Spinetoram 11.7 sc also excelled in dehydrogenase activity, protein content and total soluble sugars, indicating its positive impact on seed quality. Bruchid infestation significantly reduced in treatment T3 (1.42%), while untreated seeds exhibited the highest seed damage (16.50%). Teatment T3 recorded the fewest live and dead bruchids per 400 seeds, as well as the lowest seed infection. Compared to other treatments, spinetoram 11.7 sc at 25.6 mg/kg seeds emerged as the most effective in controlling bruchids and maintaining superior seed quality, as reflected in its highest B:C ratio. Overall, this research suggests that spinetoram can be a highly effective solution for bruchid control and seed quality preservation in blackgram during storage.

Effect of selected weeds and organic emulsions on seed germination, seedling growth and biochemical content in rice (Oryza sativa)

An experiment was conducted during 2021–22 at ICAR-National Institute of Biotic Stress Management, Raipur, Chhattisgarh, to understand the allelopathic impact of 4 selected weeds and 2 organic products on germination, seedling growth and biochemical content in rice in laboratory condition in a completely randomized design (CRD). The results indicate that 15% solution of Ascophyllum nodosum extract (T15) and 15% solution of Medicago denticulate extract (T18), inhibits the germination by 78.72 and 40.42%, respectively and 5% solution of Moringa oleifera extract (T4), 5% solution of Parthenium hysterophorus extract (T1) and 15% solution of vermiwash (T9) increased the germination by 25.53, 23.41, and 21.28% respectively as compared to control. Treatment T4 and T9 increased the seedling’s vigour by 112.8 and 109.08%, while among them treatments, viz. 15% solution of A. nodosum extract (T15) and 15% solution of M. denticulate extract (T18) decreased the vigourness by -88.60% and -59.05% respectively. Treatment T4 and 5% solution of vermiwash (T7) increased the biochemical content by 17.79% and 13.49% respectively, while 15% solution of panchgavya (T2), and treatment T15 were significantly decreased the biochemical content by 39.26 and 42.33% respectively. Based on findings, it may be concluded that negative correlation was found between the response of rice crop and increasing concentrations of weed extracts and panchgavya unlike vermiwash. But lower concentration of M. oleifera and vermiwash showed most positive impact on rice seedlings.

Effect of Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers on Growth, Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) in Bundelkhand

The present investigation was carried out at Organic Research Farm, Department of Horticulture, Institute of Agricultural Sciences, Bundelkhand University, Karguanji, Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh during the Kharif-2023 with a view to identify the effects of different combinations of organic and inorganic fertilizers and its role in growth, yield and quality of Okra variety Pusa A4. The experiment was laid in Randomized block design with 9 treatments and 3 replications with different combination in RDF and application of organic nutrition. Under this experiment, overall, 9 treatment was taken T0 Control (water spray), T1 (Ash 100%), T2 (MOP 100%), T3 (MOP 50% + Ash 50%), T4 (Presmud 5 t/ha), T6 (Presmud 1.5 t/ha), T7 (MOP 50% + Presmud 50%) and T8 (Presmud 50% + Ash 50%). From the above experimental finding it may be concluded that the treatment T2 (MOP 100%) was found to be best in the terms of growth yield and quality of Okra. The highest net return was found in the T2 (MOP 100%) with (Rs 111378/ha) and the highest B: C ratio was found in the same with 2.11.

Influence of Different Herbicides on the Growth, Growth Attributes and Yield of Maize (Zea mays L.) under Central Plains Zone of Uttar Pradesh

The field experiment was carried out at Agriculture Research Farm, Integral University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh, India during Kharif, 2021. The experiment was aimed at studying the effect of herbicides on the growth and yield of maize crop. The experiment was laid down in the Randomized Block Design (RBD) with 12 treatments and was replicated three times. The highest plant height was observed in weed free treatment due to weed free environment all over the maize growth period but among the herbicides, treatment(T8) Atrazine @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 PE followed by Tembotrione @ 0.120 kg a.i. ha-1 PoE at 20 DAS showed highest plant height of 115.2 cm, 173.63 cm and 226.29 cm at 40 DAS, 60 DAS and at harvest stage, respectively. The same treatment (T8) also resulted in the highest number of leaves per plant. The highest cob weight per plant, grain weight per cob, number of seed per cob and test weight of 219.23 g, 144.1 g, 579.23 and 27.43 g, respectively was observed in the same treatment (T­8). The highest grain yield (5199 kg ha-1) was observed in the weed free treatment but among the herbicidal treatment, the treatment T8 obtained the highest grain yield of 4803 kg ha-1 and was at par with the treatment (T7) Atrazine @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 fb 2,4-D sodium salt @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 PoE at 30 DAS bearing grain yield of 4723 kg ha-1. Among the herbicidal treatments, the treatment (T8) also resulted in the highest biological yield (12042 kg ha-1) and Harvest index (39.89%) which was at par with the treatment Atrazine @ 0.5 kg a.i. ha-1 PE followed by 2,4-D sodium salt @ 0.8 kg a.i. ha-1 PoE at 30 DAS (T7).

Different Protein Hydrolysates Can Be Used in the Penaeus vannamei (Boone, 1934) Diet as a Partial Replacement for Fish Meal during the Grow-Out Phase

This study evaluated the inclusion of protein hydrolysates and a commercial product as a partial replacement for fish meals in the diet of Pacific white shrimp (Penaeus vannamei) during the grow-out phase. A recirculation system with 24 experimental units and a biological filter was used. The experimental design was completely randomized with six treatments: control; chicken protein hydrolysate (CPH); enzymatic hydrolysate of chicken feathers; Aquabite®; CPH + maltodextrin; CPH + yeast; and four replicates. After 50 days, the zootechnical performance and animal welfare parameters, centesimal carcass composition, digestive enzyme activity, and hemocyte count were evaluated. The treatments did not affect the zootechnical performance and total hemocyte count of the animals (p > 0.05). The evaluation of the antenna length indicated that all animals were in good health. The antenna length in treatment T5 was significantly greater (p > 0.05) than that in T4 and similar to that in treatments T3 and T6, demonstrating a positive influence of dietary protein hydrolysates. Concerning animal welfare, dietary protein hydrolysates influenced the length of the antenna (p < 0.05). The antenna length associated with different treatments indicated that the animals were in good welfare conditions in the production environment. With respect to body chemical composition, dry matter, ether extract, and ash were affected by the treatments (p < 0.05). Regarding the analysis of digestive enzymes, the treatments influenced the activities of amylase and trypsin (p < 0.05). The performance of the animals was satisfactory under all treatments, including enzymatic activity, demonstrating the possibility of using hydrolysates.

Organic farming practices in rainfed lowland rice in hill zone of Karnataka, India

A large-scale field trial was conducted at Agricultural Research Station (Paddy), Sirsi of the University of Agricultural Sciences, Sirsi, Karnataka, India, during 2004–15 on a fixed site, to study the effect of different organic farming practices on productivity of rice (Oryza sativa L.) under inorganic and integrated nutrient-management practices. The trial consisted of 5 treatments, viz. T1 , Organic [75% N through organic manures + 100% organic plant protection (PP) measures]; T2, organic [100% N through organic manure + 100% organic plant protection (PP) measures]; T3 , integrated nutrient management [50% N through organic manures + 50% RDF + integrated PP measures]; T4 , inorganic treatment [recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF) alone + inorganic PP measures]; and T5 , recommended practice (RDF + FYM 10 t/ha + integrated PP measures). The rice variety ‘Abilash’ was grown during the rainy (kharif) season with these treatments. At the end of 12th year, i.e. during 2015, the grain yield recorded in treatment T2 (6.418 t/ha) was the maximum and was found on a par with T5 (6.328 t/ha). How-ever, the straw yield was the maximum in T5 (7.577 t/ha), being at par with T2 (7.494 t/ha). The net returns realized were significantly highest with treatment T2 (`41,045/ha) compared to all the other treatments. The soil organic carbon (0.77%), available major (221.2, 22.0 and 67.0 kg/ha of N, P and K, respectively) and micro-nutrients (515.5, 100.8, 5.6 ppm of calcium, magnesium and zinc, respectively and 7.6 kg/ha of sulphur) were also higher with treatment T2 .

Influence of seed rate and foliar nitrogen on productivity and profitability of wheat (Triticum aestivum) in green manure basmati rice (Oryza sativa) wheat cropping system

A field experiment was conducted during the winter (rabi) season of 2021–22 at Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana to study the effect of varied seed rate and 3% foliar nitrogen application at different stages on productivity and economics of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) green manure basmati rice (Oryza sativa L.) (T) wheat cropping. The treatments consisted of T1 recommended seed rate (100 kg/ha) with 3% foliar N application at 21 25 days after sowing (DAS), T2 (45–50 DAS) and T3 (60 65 DAS); T4 (10% reduced seed rate (90 kg/ha) with 3% foliar N application at 21 25 DAS), T5 (45 50 DAS) and T6 (60–65 DAS); T7 (20% reduced seed rate (80 kg/ha) with 3% foliar N application at 21 25 DAS), T8 (45–50 DAS), T9 (60–65 DAS) and T10 (control). The treatments were laid out in randomized block design with 3 replications. Significantly higher number of tillers (390.3 grains/pike (39.3), longer spike length (11.9 cm) were obtained from treatment T9 . Similarly, higher grain yield (5.41 t/ha), net returns (99,760/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.33) were recorded with treatment (T9 ). Thus 20% reduced seed rate (80 kg/ha) with 3% foliar nitrogen application at 60 65 DAS claimed better management practices in achieving higher yield, yield attributes and net returns.

Comparative analysis of the growth, yield attributes and grain yield of kharif maize (Zea mays) under varying doses of biochar, fertility levels, and biofertilizer treatments

A field experiment was conducted during the rainy (kharif) seasons of 2021 and 2022 at the research farm of Acharya Narendra Deva University of Agriculture and Technology, Kumarganj Ayodhya, Uttar Pardesh, to evaluate the effect of graded doses of biochar and fertility levels with and without biofertilizer under partially reclaimed sodic soils on maize (Zea mays L.) performance. The experiment was laid out in randomized block design (RBD) which with 3 replications. Experiment comprised of 8 treatments, viz. T1 , Control; T2 , 100% RDF 100 : 60 : 40 N, P2 O5 and K2 O; T3 , 50% RDF + 2.5 t/ha biochar; T4 , 50% RDF + 2.5 t/ha biochar + ZMB Biofertilizer; T5 , 50% RDF + 2.5 t/ha biochar + ZMB Biofertilizer + Zn; T6 , 100% RDF + 5 t/ha biochar; T7 , 100% RDF + 5 t/ha biochar + ZMB Biofertilizer; T8 , 100% RDF + 5 t/ha biochar + ZMB Biofertilizer + Zn. The study’s comparative analysis revealed the positive effects of applying biochar, optimal fertility levels, and biofertilizers on the yield attributes and grain yield of kharif maize. Notably, treatment T8 showed significant improvements, with a 53% increase in cob length, 34% increase in cob girth, 83% increase in the number of grains per row, 138.4% increase in grain yield, and 134% increase in stover yield compared to the control treatment. These findings demonstrate the successful impact of application of 100% RDF + 5 t/ha biochar + ZMB Biofertilizer + Zn in enhancing various aspects of maize growth and yield, surpassing the outcomes achieved with the control treatment and may be recommended for achieving high-quality maize production in partially reclaimed sodic soils of eastern Uttar Pradesh and comparable agro-ecoregions.

Biostimulants for Promoting Growth, Yield and Flower Quality in Anthurium andreanum Lind

The present study was carried out at the Department of Floriculture and Landscaping, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, during 2022-23 with an aim to evaluate the effect of foliar application of different biostimulants on growth, yield, and flowering attributes of Anthurium under naturally ventilated polyhouse condition. The experiment was laid out in CRD with ten replications. There were fifteen treatments including the control. Fertilizers and manures were applied as per the Package of Practices Recommendations of Kerala Agricultural University (i.e., application of cow dung supernatant + 2 g L-119:19:19 weekly once) to all the treatments including the control (T1). In addition, for treatments T2 to T15, different biostimulants were applied as foliar sprays either alone or in combination fortnightly or monthly as per the treatment specifications. Being a popular cut flower, improvement in floral attributes is very much valued in Anthurium. The study concluded that the treatment T8 i.e., application of cow dung supernatant and 2 g L-119:19:19 weekly once as foliar spray along with foliar application of 2% humic acid - fulvic acid mixture and 100 mg L-1 salicylic acid at fortnightly intervals exhibited superior values for stalk length, spathe length, spathe width, number of flowers, flower longevity and vase life and it also recorded earliest flower bud initiation. The results revealed that growth and floral attributes of Anthurium can be improved through the foliar application of treatment T8.

Standardization and Evaluation of Quality Attributes and Bioactive Components of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and Kokum (Garcinia indica Choisy) Based Herbal Tea

The present investigation entitled “Standardization and evaluation of quality attributes and bioactive components of Ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) and Kokum (Garcinia indica Choisy) based herbal tea” was carried out in the Central Instrumentation Laboratory, College of Horticulture, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. The experiment was carried out with Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with two experiments, experiment-I consists of 7 treatments and three replications. and experiment -II consists of 8 treatments and 3 replications. Tea bags of 3.5grams will be prepared as per the treatments and Standard cup volume of 100 ml is considered for study. The results revealed that the treatment combination of ginger -kokum mix (first best T7 Dry ginger powder 90 % + Dry Kokum powder 10 %), second best -T3 (Dry ginger powder 50 % + Dry kokum powder 50 %) based on organoleptic evaluation were selected from experiment one and proceeded to experiment two for evaluation of ginger kokum based herbal tea. The results related to physico-chemical parameters and organoleptic evaluation indicated that, among the different herbal teas, the treatment T3 (First best -90 %+ Cardamom -10 %) recorded best with pH (4.54) of 0th day, T2 (Second Best -100 % -Control) recorded highest titratable acidity (4.02 %) of 60th day, T2 (Second Best -100 %) recorded best with Ascorbic acid (1.32 mg/100 g) of 0th day. T4 (First best 90 % +Turmeric -10 %) at 0th day found to be best with total Phenol content (88.95 mg GAE/g). The maximum organoleptic score for overall acceptability (8.47) was in “Like very much range” on nine-point hedonic scale which is recorded in treatment T4: (First best-90 % +Tulasi-10 %) at the end of storage period. it can be concluded that T4-(First best -90 % + Tulasi - 10%) and T8 (Second best 90 % + Turmeric -10%) are best two standardized herbal teas from this research work.

Optimization of Chemical Fertilizer through Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) Approach and its Effect on Growth and Yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.)

A field experiment to test the optimization of chemical fertilizer use through Integrated Nutrient Management (INM) approach and its effect on growth and yield of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) was carried out at Rampur agricultural field of Doon (P.G) College of Agriculture Science and Technology, Selaqui, Dehradun, Uttarakhand during the rabi season 2021-2022. The experiment comprised of nine treatments of organic and inorganic nutrient combination, viz T1- Control (No Fertilizer), T2- Recommended Dose of Fertilizer (RDF) (80:60:40 kg/ha), T3- 100 % vermicompost (6.0 t/ha), T4- 75% Farm Yard Manure (FYM) (15.0 t/ha) + 25% RDF (20:15:10 kg/ha), T5- 50% RDF (40:30:20 kg/ha) + FYM (5.0 t/ha) + green manure (2.5 t/ha) + gypsum (10.0 kg/ha), T6-50% RDF (40:30:20 kg/ha) + vermicompost (3.0 t/ha)+ gypsum (5.0 kg/ha), T7- 75% RDF (60:45:30 kg/ha) + vermicompost (2.5 t/ha), T8- 75% RDF (60:45:30 kg/ha) + vermicompost (1.5 t/ha) + green manure (1.5 t/ha), T9- 75% RDF (60:45:30 kg/ha) + FYM (1.5 t/ha) + vermicompost (1.0 t/ha) + green manure (1 t/ha) + gypsum (10.0 kg/ha), laid out in randomized block design with three replication. The results of experiment revealed that there was increase in plant growth parameters in the treatment T9, followed by treatment T8 and T5, respectively. Moreover, the maximum seed yield (2240.39 kg/ha) was observed under T9 over control, where no fertilizer application was applied. The present investigation established the fact that integrated use both organic and inorganic fertilizer can be recommended to the farmers as one of the key strategies for enhancing crop response in terms of growth and yield of mustard.

Phenological Variation in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Varieties through Foliar Application of Cytokinin Analogs and Nutrients under Water Deficit Stress

Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), a rainfed crop predominantly grown in temperate and subtropical climates, faces significant challenges in production due to terminal drought stress impacting various phenological stages. This study addresses the challenges posed by terminal drought stress on the phenological stage of chickpea varieties viz., JG 36 and JG 14. The experiment was conducted during the Rabi seasons of 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 at the Experimental Research Farm, Seed Technology Research Unit, JNKVV, Jabalpur (M.P), using a split-split plot design with three replications. This research also investigates the impact of foliar applications of cytokinin analogs viz., Thiourea, Thidiazuron, and Benzyladenine and nutrients viz., ZnSO4 and KCl on chickpea under water deficit stress conditions. The results revealed significant differences in days to pod formation, seed formation, physiological maturity, and harvest maturity among the irrigation levels, varieties, and foliar spray of plant growth regulators and nutrients. Under different irrigation levels, D1 (Irrigation at 30 DAS and flower initiation) exhibited delayed phenological stages of the crop, while D2 (Drought stress at flowering up to physiological maturity) showed an early onset of all the phenological stages. Under water deficit conditions, JG 14 exhibited accelerated maturity beyond its typical early maturation in comparison to well-watered conditions, highlighting the impact of environmental stress on varietal responses. With respect to the application of plant growth regulators and nutrients, treatment T12 (TDZ @ 10 ppm + 1% KCl) significantly delayed pod and seed formation, as well as physiological and harvest maturity as compared to untreated control (T1). Foliar application of TDZ @ 10 ppm + 1% KCl (T12) enhanced seed filling duration by 2.59 days compared to the untreated control. Further investigations are needed to identify the impact of Thidiazuron and KCl in enhancing seed yield and seed weight of chickpea under optimal and sub-optimal soil water conditions, to provide recommendations for chickpea growers.

REDUCTION OF CHEMICAL FERTILIZER APPLICATION BY USING BIOCHAR FOR THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF RICE CV. BRRI dhan 29

A field experiment was carried out at research field, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur to assess the reduction of chemical fertilizer application by using biochar for the growth and yield of rice cv. BRRI dhan 29. The experiment was performed with five treatments viz. T1 = Recommended doses of N, P, K and S, T2 = Biochar 10 t ha-1, T3 = Biochar 7.5 t ha-1 + half recommended doses of N, P, K and S, T4 = Biochar 5 t ha-1 + half recommended doses of N, P, K and S and T5 = Biochar 2.5 t ha-1 + half recommended doses of N, P, K and S. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The highest plant height (102.35 cm) and the number of tillers hill-1 (26.35) was found in the treatment T1 which was statistically similar to the treatment T3 with the values 99.93 cm and 25.89, respectively. The panicle length (25.01 cm), number of spikelets hill-1 (14.30), number of grains panicle-1 (194.50) and 1000-grain weight (25.03 g) were found maximum in the treatment T3 which was statistically similar to the treatment T1 with the values 24.89 cm, 13.87, 193.50 and 24.37 g; respectively. The highest grain yield (7.46 t ha-1) and straw yield (9.92 t ha-1) was found on T1 treatment which was statistically similar to the treatments T3 (7.42 and 9.86 t ha-1). The highest biological yield (17.28 t ha-1) was measured in the treatment T3. These results suggest that application of 7.5 t ha-1 biochar with half recommended doses of N, P, K and S may reduce 50% of N, P, K and S for rice cultivation (cv. BRRI dhan 29) as these treatments acquire statistically similar production to solely chemical fertilizer applications. However, further research is needed on biochar production, cost efficiency for biochar application and environmental aspects of biochar application.

Manufacturing Low-Fat Processed Cheese Using Chickpea Proteins as a Fat Substitute and Studying Its Physicochemical, Rheological, and Sensory Quality Characteristics

Background: Manufacturing processed cheese has many advantages compared to natural cheese because the cost of refrigeration is lower during storage and transportation, and maintaining improved quality with minimal changes in the characteristics of the cheese during storage. It is possible to produce cheese with different intensity in flavor, functionality, and characteristics for different applications. Methods: This study was carried out in the laboratories of the College of Food Sciences, department of dairy science and technology at Al-Qasim green university, where full-fat cheddar cheese was mixed with full-fat soft cheese and used in the manufacture of cooked cheese treated with positive control + C, as well as mixing full-fat cheddar cheese with low-fat soft cheese to manufacture low-fat processed cheese, the negative control treatment was treated C-. Full-fat cheddar cheese was mixed with soft, low-fat cheese, with the addition of chickpea proteins as a fat replacers, with addition rates of 1.5, 3, and 4.5%, represented by treatments T3, T2, and T1, respectively. Results: The chemical tests included estimating the percentage of moisture, protein, fat, ash, carbohydrates, and total acidity, in addition to estimating the pH, while the rheological tests included hardness, adhesion, and springiness. A sensory evaluation of processed cheese parameters was also conducted. The results showed that the replacement treatments were characterized by a lower moisture content and protein percentage than the negative control treatment and close to the positive control treatment. The percentages of carbohydrates, ash, and acidity also increased in the replacement treatments, but the percentage of fats and pH decreased.

Effect of cooking characteristics, amino acid consistency, and functional properties of composite noodles made from foxtail millet

The research endeavors to address the exigent demand for augmented nutritional efficacy in food commodities, alongside the escalating preference for expedient, superior, and health-conscious alternatives. As a result, the ongoing investigation aims to formulate instant noodles utilizing a composite blend of flours, including foxtail millet (FMF), wheat (WF), mushroom (MF), and rice bran flour (RBF), followed by a subsequent evaluation of the functional properties, cooking attributes, and amino acid composition of the noodles. The investigation considered distinct proportions of composite flour, specifically 0:100:0:0, 60:30:5:5, 50:40:5:5, and 40:50:5:5 (FMF: WF: MF: RBF), designated as treatment T1 (control), T2, T3, and T4, respectively. The results indicate that composite noodles (T2 to T4) demonstrate significantly higher water absorption indexes (ranging from 189.41 % to 197.28 %) compared to the control noodles (T1) composed solely of wheat flour (100 %), signifying an elevated capacity for water retention. Conversely, the oil absorption index of treatment T1 (214.45 %) surpassed that of treatments T2 (210.14 %), T3 (207.47 %), and T4 (200.64 %), respectively. Similarly, treatment T1 exhibited a higher swelling index (16.57 %), whereas T4 demonstrated a significantly lower swelling index with the highest water solubility (4.51 %). Additionally, the inclusion of foxtail millet flour led to a notable reduction in the optimal cooking time, with T4 requiring the shortest duration (3.45 min). Conversely, the cooking yield varied among treatments, with T4 displaying the lowest yield (42.30 %), while T1 exhibited the highest (48.72 %). Furthermore, in the comparison between control and composite noodles, treatment T4 manifested the highest levels of basic, aromatic, aliphatic, and essential amino acids. It also contained a substantial amount of lysine (11 g/100 g), nearly twice as much as treatment T1 (5 g/100 g). Organoleptic assessment indicated a preference for composite noodles (T2 to T4) in terms of taste and flavor. Therefore, fortifying foxtail millet, wheat, mushroom, and rice bran flour in a ratio of (50:40:5:5) for functional food formulations has the potential to enhance the quality of noodles.

Population dynamics of Trichoderma harzianum in bio- fortified compost against soil-borne potato diseases

Soil-borne diseases pose significant challenges to global potato cultivation, resulting in yield losses and economic implications. Utilizing biological control agents offers a sustainable and environmentally and friendly approach to manage these diseases. Before implementing the experiment in the field, a series of in-vitro tests were conducted to select a virulent isolate of the tested pathogens and an effective antagonistic isolate of Trichoderma harzianum. In the pathogenicity test, isolate RS-1 of Rhizoctonia solani and isolate SR-8 of Sclerotium rolfsii exhibited the highest virulence against two pathogens in potato variety ‘Cardinal’ in regard to seedling mortality (44.44-88.88%). During in vitro screening, T. harzianum isolate Tri 7 displayed the greatest ability to inhibit the mycelium growth of all tested pathogens. In the field trial, the highest seedling mortality (69.06%) was observed in T2 (Fresh seeds+ Soil inoculated with R. solani and S. rolfsii). However, the highest seedling mortality (86.94%) was reduced by treatment T7 (Fresh seeds+ Soil inoculated with R. solani and S. rolfsii +500g wheat grain colonized with Trichoderma fortified poultry compost). Treatment T7 also recorded the lowest incidences of stem canker (7.83%) and stem rot (8.64%), whereas the highest disease incidences occurred in the T2 treatment plot. Notably, treatment T7 gave the highest yield of 30.94 tons/ha, while the control plot T2 yielded the lowest at 12.17 tons/ha. Initially, Trichoderma population was minimal prior to the application of Trichoderma- fortified compost. However, populations gradually increased over time, peaking at 3 months across all treatments except the control, where no Trichoderma was applied. However, a decline in T. harzianum population was noted one month after potato harvesting. This approach offers a potential solution for managing potato soil-borne diseases in a sustainable and environmentally friendly manner. Ann. Bangladesh Agric. (2023) 27 (1): 81-92

Electrostatic particle ionization for suppressing air pollutants in cage-free layer facilities

The increasing demand for cage-free (CF) poultry farming raises concern regarding air pollutant emissions in these housing systems. Previous studies have indicated that air pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) and ammonia (NH3) pose substantial risks to the health of birds and workers. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of electrostatic particle ionization (EPI) technology with different lengths of ion precipitators in reducing air pollutants and investigate the relationship between PM reduction and electricity consumption. Four identical CF rooms were utilized, each accommodating 175 hens of 77 wk of age (WOA). A Latin Square Design method was employed, with 4 treatment lengths: T1 = control (0 m), T2 = 12 ft (3.7 m), T3 = 24 ft (7.3 m), and T4 = 36 ft (11.0 m), where room and WOA are considered as blocking factors. Daily PM concentrations, temperature, and humidity measurements were conducted over 24 h, while NH3 levels, litter moisture content (LMC), and ventilation were measured twice a week in each treatment room. Statistical analysis involved ANOVA, and mean comparisons were performed using the Tukey HSD method with a significance level of P ≤ 0.05. This study found that the EPI system with longer wires reduced PM2.5 concentrations (P ≤ 0.01). Treatment T2, T3, and T4 led to reductions in PM2.5 by 12.1%, 19.3%, and 31.7%, respectively, and in small particle concentrations (particle size >0.5 μm) by 18.0%, 21.1%, and 32.4%, respectively. However, no significant differences were observed for PM10 and large particles (particle size >2.5 μm) (P < 0.10), though the data suggests potential reductions in PM10 (32.7%) and large particles (33.3%) by the T4 treatment. Similarly, there was no significant impact of treatment on NH3 reduction (P = 0.712), possibly due to low NH3 concentration (<2 ppm) and low LMC (<13%) among treatment rooms. Electricity consumption was significantly related to the length of the EPI system (P ≤ 0.01), with longer lengths leading to higher consumption rates. Overall, a longer-length EPI corona pipe is recommended for better air pollutant reduction in CF housing. Further research should focus on enhancing EPI technology, assessing cost-effectiveness, and exploring combinations with other PM reduction strategies.

Integrated Nutrient Management Strategies: Unraveling the Impact of Bio-Fertilizers and Traditional Fertilizers on Soybean (Glycine max) Productivity

The study investigated the impact of different treatments on soybean growth and productivity, focusing on plant height and various growth parameters. Notably, Treatment T6, incorporating cow dung, Rhizobium, and Phosphorus-Solubilizing Bacteria (PSB), consistently outperformed other treatments. At 40 days after sowing (DAS), T6 exhibited the highest plant height, a trend sustained at 60 DAS and harvest. This superiority was attributed to the synergistic effect of the bio-fertilizer components. The control (T1) consistently had the shortest plants. In terms of productivity, T6 consistently excelled across parameters such as number of branches (4.12), nodules per plant (29.33), number of pods (33.33), pod length (4.82), seeds per pod (4.29), and seed yield (1.87 t/ha). Additionally, T6 demonstrated the highest protein (39.41%) and oil content (18.60%). While the recommended fertilizer dose (T2) showed improvement over the control, T6 surpassed T2, emphasizing the synergistic benefits of combining organic and microbial inputs. These findings highlight the potential of bio-fertilizers, particularly the combined approach, in enhancing soybean productivity. The study provides valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices and optimizing fertilizer strategies for improved crop yields.

Effect of Different Organic Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of Broccoli (Brassica oleraceae var. italic)

The field experiment was conducted at Nabogram Agro Farm, Mannannagar, Sadar, Noakhali during the period from October 2020 to January 2021 to evaluate the effect of different organic fertilizers on the growth and yield of broccoli (Brassica oleraceae var. italica). The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) consisting of five treatments with three replications. The five treatments were T0 (No manure), T1 (Cowdung 5 t ha-1), T2 (Trichocompost 5 t ha-1), T3 (Vermicompost 5 t ha-1), T4 (Cowdung 50% + Trichocompost 50%) and T5 (Cowdung 50% + Vermicompost 50%). Data were collected in respect of plant growth and yield indicating characters at harvest. All the recorded parameters were statistically significant. For 100% curd initiation, maximum time (61 days) was recorded from T0 (Control), while minimum days (55 days) were recorded from T2 (Trichocompost 5 t ha-1). At harvest, the maximum plant height (64.70 cm), leaf length (35.05 cm), leaf breadth (32.32 cm), number of leaves per plant (14.66), the weight of full plant (1158.27 g), the marketable weight of curd (496.67 g), individual curd weight (320.67 g), diameter of curd (13.432 cm), marketable yield (19.242 t ha-1) were found in treatment T5 (Cowdung 50% + Vermicompost 50%) whereas lowest data recorded from treatment T0 (Control). So it is observed that T5 (Cowdung 50% + Vermicompost 50%) provides the highest results which may be more economical for the farmer according to the findings of this experiment. Vol. 10, No. 3, December 2023: 237-245

Effects of Different Vesicular - arbuscular Mycorrhizal (VAM) Fungi on the Seedling Growth of Tecomella undulata

Tecomella undulata (Sm.) Seem. (family Bignoniaceae) is a tree found in desert parts of India, and Arabia. The cultivation of high-quality seedlings is vital for establishing a successful plantation and the contribution of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) in the soil plays a vital role in the nursery phase. A study conducted during the periods of 2021-22 and 2022-23 scrutinised the effect of four distinct species of Glomus spp. (G. mosseae, G. intraradices, G. fasciculatum and Glomus hoi) on Tecomella undulata seedlings in AMF-inoculated soil. The inoculation involved applying of 400-500 sporocarps/kg of soil during sowing and the evaluation encompassed growth and survival parameters. Results revealed that among the 4 Glomus species, soil inoculated with Glomus fasiculatum at 180 days after sowing, significantly increased the root colonization percentage with (50.69 and 46.71 %) in year (2021-22) and (2022-23) compared to the uninoculated control. Additionally, seedlings exhibited significantly higher no. of spores per 100g of soil, when treated with (Glomus fasiculatum) inoculated soil, which was statistically at par with soil inoculated with (Glomus intraradices) at (103.67 and 98.65). During both the experimental year, in terms of germination percentage, root length and root: shoot ratio were found non- significantly with (44.45 %), root length at 360 DAS, (26.67 and 25.74) respectively, root shoot ratio at 360 days after sowing. While, plant survival percentage (30.63 and 25.41%) at 90 DAS. Whereas, at 360 DAS, collar diameter (6.14 and 10.07 mm), shoot length (33.36 and 32.19 cm), plant biomass (8.31 and 8.05 g), leaf area (196.29 and 185.46 cm 2) was observed significantly higher in treatment T3 (Glomus fasiculatum) which was statistically at par with treatment T1 (G. intraradices). It is concluded from study that Glomus fasiculatum were found best for growth and survival of seedlings followed by Glomus intraradices as compare to control.