Journal of Environmental Biology
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Item Performance evaluation of different soil infiltration models under the long-term conservation agriculture based management practices(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Mandal, N; Das, TK; Sarkar, A; Maity, PP.Aim: This study aimed to assess the long-term impacts of various conservation agriculture practices on the infiltration characteristics of soil and to evaluate effectiveness of Kostiakov, Green and Ampt, and Philip models in predicting the infiltration rates. Methodology: The treatments examined included the permanent broad bed (PBB), PBB with residue (PBB+R), permanent narrow bed (PNB), PNB with residue (PNB+R), zero tillage (ZT), and ZT with residue (ZT+R) and conventional tillage (CT). Infiltration models were fitted to the experimental data and performance of each model was evaluated using statistical criteria. Results: Initial infiltration rate was maximum in PBB+R, which was 111.5% higher than in conventional tillage CT (lowest). Cumulative infiltration across all the treatments followed in the order of: PBB+R had the highest, followed by PNB+R>ZT+R>PBB>PNB>ZT>CT. The CA– based management practices showed 31.4– 85.2% higher observed steady state infiltration rate than CT. The model derived parameters like “a” value of Kostiakov, “i ” of Green and Ampt andc “S” of Philip were higher under PBB+R than CT by 138.6, 154.3 and 112.1%, respectively. Kostiakov model performed the best for 2 –1 –1 –1 predicting infiltration rates with the highest R ?0.92 and the lowest errors (RMSE?1.26 cm hr , ARE?0.76 cm hr and MAE?0.96 cm hr ). Interpretation: Therefore, it was proventhat the empirical Kostiakov model could effectively represent the infiltration process in soil.Item Diallel analysis of growth trait inheritance in mulberry (Morus sp.)(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Harika, KR; Susikaran, S; Tejasree, P; Bharathi, BKM; Garai, I; Bharathi, SAB; Vasanth, V; Deepa, K.Aim: To assess the combining abilities of four mulberry genotypes to identify genetic variations that can enhance growth traits and improve hybridization outcomes. Ultimately, the study aims to optimize parental selection for better production in mulberry and bringing advancements in mulberry breeding. Methodology: Griffing approach of full diallel mating design (Model 1 and Method 1) was used where parents, F1 hybrids and F1 hybrids reciprocals were included. Results: V1 and MR2 excelled in general combining ability (GCA) for growth traits. Positive specific combining effects (SCA) were observed in V1×G4 and G4×V1 crosses. Higher specific combing ability variance and significant reciprocal combing ability (RCA) indicate strong non-additive gene action and maternal inheritance. Interpretation: The study highlights V1 and MR2 as superior combiners with high positive GCA, emphasizing the importance of parent interactions. Non-additive gene action, indicated by higher SCA variance, suggests focusing on these interactions for breeding. The crosses V1×G4 and G4×V1 showed strong SCA effects, offering promise for improving growth and mulberry productivity in sericulture.Item Methionine supplementation improves freezability of Jamnapari Buck semen(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Alam, K; Srivastava, S; Verma, SK; Verma, AK; Singh, B; Saurabh; Kumar, R; Kumar, R; Jaiswal, A; Verma, RK; Alam, A; Singh, J; Singh, RR; Kumar, P; Verma, HC; Singh, N.Aim: The study aimed to assess the effect of methionine supplementation as a semen additive to augment the freezability of Jamnapari buck semen. Methodology: A total of forty-eight ejaculates were collected from four Jamnapari bucks (n=12x4) twice a week using an artificial vagina from October to November 2023. The sperm concentration was estimated using a photometer and semen was diluted with tris-citrate-fructose-yolk extender and divided into four equal aliquots (control, T1, T2 and T3) and methionine was added @ 0, 2, 2.5, and 5.0 mM in C, T1, T2 and T3, respectively. The post-diluted and frozen-thawed semen was evaluated for sperm motility, viability, acrosomal integrity, sperm abnormalities, sperm plasma membrane integrity, sperm penetration distance, and enzyme leakage (AST, ALT, ACP and AKP). Results: Methionine applied @ 2.0 and 5.0 mM in the extender seemed to be less effective at maintaining sperm structural integrity and functionality in comparison to the 2.5 mM treatment. The inclusion of 2.5 mM methionine has significantly enhanced the freezability of Jamnapari buck semen. Interpretation: In conclusion, methionine in tris-citrate-fructose-yolk extender can improve the sperm quality and fertility potential of post-thawed spermatozoa of Jamnapari buck.Item Genetic variability, association and principal component analysis for agronomical traits in mungbean (Vigna radiata L. Wilczek)(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Mishra, A; Singh, CM; Sharma, V; Kumar, H; Kamaluddin; Shukla, G; Kumar, M.Aim: This study aimed to assess the extent of genetic variability in 205 diverse green gram genotypes for agronomical traits and to identify the most effective traits for consideration in development of high yielding cultivars in mungbean. Methodology: The 205 diverse genotype including five checks of mungbean were evaluated in augmented block design-I with eight blocks. In each block, the 30 genotypes (25 genotypes + 5 checks) were grown in paired rows of 4 m length with 45 x 10 cm spacing. The mean data from selected plants 2 across all the genotypes and checks were analyzed for genetic variability parameters (PCV, GCV, h , GAM), Correlation, Path Analysis and Principalbs Component Analysis (PCA). 2 Results: The high estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation, phenotypic coefficient of variation, heritability (h ) along with high genetic advancebs over mean were observed for number of branches per plant, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster,number of pods per plant and seed yield per plant. The present study indicated that seed yield per plant had significant and positive correlation with harvest index, biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant and number of pods per cluster, and also highly influenced by these traits both directly and indirectly. PCA analysis revealed that out of thirteen principal components, five Pcs (PC1 to PC5) had eigenvalue of >1.0 explaining 19.20%, 16.10%, 11.90%, 10.70% and 8.10%, respectively, accounted for 66% of total variation indicated the strong association of PCs and traits studied. PCA suggested that traits such as vegetative period, number of clusters per plant, number of pods per cluster, number of pods per plant and harvest index were the principal discriminatory traits. Interpretation: It is suggested that selection based on harvest index, biological yield per plant, number of pods per plant and number of pods per cluster may result in improvement of seed yield in mungbean.Item Distribution and molecular characterization of Lasiodiplodia theobromae and Aceria guerreronis associated with coconut(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Sudha, A; Kavitha, PS; Rajesh, M; Preetha, G; Kavitha, S.Aim: A survey was conducted in major coconut-growing areas of Tamil Nadu in order to determine the presence of Aceria guerreronis, Lasiodiplodia theobromae and their interactive effects. The objective of the study was to ascertain the interaction, pathogenicity and cross infectivity reaction to infection. Methodology: Pathogenicity studies demonstrated the intensity of pest incidence, both individually and in combination, through morphological and molecular studies. Interestingly, interactions in a few crops were confirmed through PCR amplification. Results: The survey revealed a significant positive correlation between mite and fungus infestations and GPS location (?² = 2114.22, df = 1; P < 0.001). Molecular studies identified product sizes of 347 bp for Lasiodiplodia theobromae KKLT01 and 500 bp for Aceria guerreronis KKAG01. Cross-infectivity tests demonstrated that toddy palm and arecanut experienced the same effects as coconut, which was confirmed through PCR amplification. Interpretation: The present study shows that apart from mite infestation, the fungus also play a major role in increasing infestation and the interaction was positively correlated for cross infectivity. The results of the present study will help to restructure the existing management strategy.Item First report on biometric parameters and life-history priors of whitespot sandsmelt Parapercis alboguttata (Gunther, 1872) from North-eastern Arabian Sea(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Suyani, NK; Vaghela, DT; Mridula, R; Rajesh, KM; Sureandiran, B.Aim:The study aimed to evaluate the sex ratio, biometric characteristics, and life-history traits of Parapercis alboguttata along North-eastern Arabian Sea. Methodology: The statistical analysis of sex ratio, morpho- meristic characteristics, length-weight relationships, condition factors, and life-history features of P. alboguttata were examined for one year from September 2022 to August 2023 for both sexes. Results: The mean sex ratio manifested male dominance (1F:1.29M), which significantly deviated from the 1:1 ratio 2 (? =6.891; p<0.05). All the 29 morphometric characteristics subjected to univariate ANOVA showed significant (p<0.001) differences between male and female specimens. Head morphometrics found in the intermediate to environmentally controlled category suggested that these characteristics were inconsistent. Allometric morphometric relationships revealed isometry with TL and allometry with HL for most morphometric parameters. The b value of length-weight relationships of combined sexes depicted significant (p<0.05) deviation from 3 indicating hypoallometric growth (b<3) with absolute fitness of 2 growth model (r >0.982). Mean relative condition factor was found near unity (?1) in different month and size groups. Corporeal status based on allometric condition factor proclaimed that the species spawn twice a year from October to December and April to August. Sex ratio in different size groups and size at first sexual maturity (L ) revealed that P.m alboguttata is a protogynous hermaphrodite. Interpretation: The current findings proclaimed that the stock is likely to be overfished due to large removal of mega-spawners.Therefore, the study recommends the optimum harvest size of the species between 15.8 and 19.3 cm, to ensure the sustainability of the whitespot sandsmelt fishery.Item Trait association analysis under abiotic stresses in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea L. Czern. & Coss.): Unraveling relationships and significance(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Srivastava, K; Saha, S; Verma, RK; Patel, A; Tirkey, AE; Vijai, P.Aim: The present study was conducted to estimate the character association among yield and its associated traits and identify tolerant genotypes of Indian mustard under abiotic stress condition. Methodology: 70 genotypes and 5 check varieties of Indian mustard, viz., RH-749, NRCHB-101, RH-406, Giriraj, and Kranti were sown in augmented block design, for two consecutive seasons during Rabi 2020-21 and 2021-22, under three conditions, viz., timely sown, drought and late sown (terminal heat stress) at Agricultural Research Farm, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi. The morphological and physiological data were observed to determine the traits associated with seed yield under abiotic stress condition. The heat susceptibility index (HSI) and drought susceptibility index (DSI) were calculated based on seed yield to categorize genotypes according to their response under stress condition. Results: Plant height, biological yield, secondary branches, number of silique on main raceme and silique per plant showed significant positive correlation with seed yield per plant under all three conditions, and the highest positive direct effect on seed yield/plant under all three conditions as per path analysis was exhibited by biological yield and harvest index. Genotypes viz., HUJM-07-06, PM-25 and Vaibhav were found to be most heat tolerant whereas Urvashi, RB-50 and BPR-543-2 were found to be most drought tolerant. Interpretation: It can be interpreted that direct selection for such traits may aid in improving seed yield per plant under stress condition and thus, be used in breeding programs to select genotypes suitable under stress environment.Item Investigating the potential of Bismuth vanadate to combat multidrug-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Aswathy, V; Sajith, S; Shakila, R; Vijayanand, S; Vidhya, B; Murugan, S.Aim: This study investigated the efficiency of BiVO nanoparticles (BiVO NPs) against drug-resistant bacteria, Acinetobacter baumannii and Methicillin-4 4 resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Methodology: The study employed a multifaceted approach, evaluating the ablity of BiVO NPs to inhibit4 bacterial growth, reduce viable cell counts over time, and hinder biofilm formation. Furthermore, the investigation explored the NPs impact on virulence factors using protease and hemolysin inhibition assays. Results: The findings showed the potent efficacy of BiVO NPs against A. baumannii and MRSA. Notable4 results included the formation of clear inhibition zones up to 19 and 15 mm, indicating the antimicrobial activity against both pathogens. BiVO NPs also effectively4 inhibited biofilm formation, reduced bacterial adherence, and inhibited virulence factors, underscoring their potential as effective agents against drug-resistant bacteria and suggesting promising applications in medical implants and anti-microbial research. Interpretation: Overall, this study provides compelling evidence supporting the potential use of BiVO Nps as4 an antimicrobial agent and a promising candidate for addressing various human health concerns.Item Evaluation of diverse okra germplasm for identification of source of resistance to root-knot nematode, Meloidogyne incognita(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Gawade, BH; Khan, Z; Gangopadhyay, KK; Pandey, CD; Chalam, VC.Aim: The present study was carried out to identify the okra germplasm resistant to root-knot nematode for cost effective and environment friendly management of root-knot-nematode, Meloidogyne incognita. Methodology: A total of 239 diverse accessions (acc.) of okra were evaluated under net house conditions. Experiments were conducted in 10 cm diameter pots filled with 500 g soil with challenge inoculation of 1000 second stage juveniles of root- knot nematodes. Resistance assessment was done after 42 days of inoculation based on the number of root galls developed. The resistant accessions were identified and re-evaluated under controlled conditions to validate the resistance. Results: Based on root galling index, host response of 239 accessions (acc.) was observed as Immune (0 acc.), resistant (8 acc.), moderately resistant (19 acc.), moderately susceptible (28 acc.), susceptible (145 acc.) and highly susceptible (46 acc.). Repeated evaluation of 8 resistant accessions of okra (EC306737, EC305619, EC360672, EC360927, IC022232, IC117074, IC255758 and IC39140) showed consistent root-knot nematode resistance by these accessions. Final population and reproduction factor of root-knot nematode were found significantly low in identified resistant accessions. Interpretation: These eight identified accessions are novel for root-knot nematode resistance and therefore, important for future use in crop breeding programmes for root-knot nematode resistance in okra.Item Eco-friendly fabrication principles of microbial fuel cells using nanotechnology principles for the sustainable energy production-A review(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Abiraamavalli, T; Namasivayam, S. Karthick RajaA promising environmentally friendly bioenergy device called a microbial fuel cell (MFC) uses bacterial biofilms as biocatalysts to convert organic matter into power.Because MFCs provide potentially new prospects for sustainable energy production from biodegradable and reusable waste materials, their design and use have drawn significant attention. However, novel fabrication methods should be needed for an effective functioning of Microbial fuel cell. The present study explores the concepts of nanotechnology principles for MFC fabrication which can be used to enhance the performance of MFC. The integration of nanotechnology principles into MFC fabrication offers exciting prospects for advancing sustainable energy and environmental technologies. Methods for improving MFC performance by altering the conventional fabrication techniques of the components for rapid transfer of electrons, improved conductivity, corrosion resistance, biofilm adhesion and biocompatibility with nanotechnology principles has discussed. Role of nanomaterials like nanoparticles, nano tubes and nanocomposites mainly polymeric nanocomposites in fabrication technology explored clearly. A further study will help in addressing the main challenge in scaling up MFCs, which is the external energy required to begin the circuit to extract energy and investigating the long-term impact of nanocomposite-based MFCs on ecosystems.Continued research and innovation in this field are essential for realizing the full potential of nanomaterial-based MFCs in practical applications.Item Genetic divergence studies of mango germplasms for tree, fruit yield and quality attributes under the Shivalik Foothills of Uttarakhand(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Shivran, JS; Singh, AK; Kumar, R; Kumari, I; Jat, R; Jat, ML.Aim: To evaluate genetic variability and divergence in various traits among mango germplasms in the Tarai region of Uttarakhand. Methodology: The present study was conducted at Horticulture Research Centre, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand for two consecutive years (2021-22 and 2022-23). The genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, heritability, genetic advance and genetic gain were estimated by the standard methods. Genetic divergence estimated by Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was subjected to multivariate statistical analysis. Results: The analysis of variance showed a significant difference for studied attributes, indicating a considerable amount of variability. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) value was consistently higher compared to genetic coefficient of variation (GCV). Tree growth, flowering, fruit, stone and quality parameters exhibited high genetic coefficient of variation, heritability and significant genetic advance as well as percentage of the mean. The divergence study identified various fruit, yield and plant growth attributes as the most influential trait in determining diversity. Interpretation: Traits exhibiting high genetic variability are crucial for breeders in selecting suitable germplasm, as highlighted by the Bi-plot analysis, which identified PMSS-7 and PMSS-11 as genetically distinct and particularly valuable for breeding programs.Item Metribuzin-based herbicide combination for management of dominant weed flora to enhance wheat productivity and profitability under Indo-Gangetic plains(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Ahlawat, I; Kamboj, BR; Yadav, DB.Aim: A two-year ‘on-farm experimentation’ was conducted to estimate the efficacy of metribuzin (MTZ), applied alone and in combination with pinoxaden (PDN), at various application doses and timing for controlling diverse weed flora in rice-wheat cropping system. Methodology: The experiment was conducted over two consecutive cropping seasons, 2021–22 and 2022–23 at Rice Research Station, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Kaul (Kaithal), Haryana, India.The experiment with MTZ based herbicide combinations was planned out using factorial randomized block design for management of Phalaris minor in wheat under conventional tillage system. Results: The study results indicated that highest grain yield (6,140 and 5,804 -1 kg ha during 2021-22 and 2022-23, respectively.) and Benefit-Cost Ratio (1.96 and 1.83, respectively)was achieved with post-emergence (POE) -1 application of MTZ at 350 g ha , mixed with urea and broadcasted at 35 days -1 after sowing (DAS) in conjunction with PDN as spray at 50 g ha-1 demonstrating superior weed suppression in wheat crop. PDNat 50 g ha exhibited significant control over Phalaris minor but demonstrated no effectiveness against broadleaf weeds (BLWs). -1 Interpretation: POE application of MTZ at 350 g ha , broadcasted with urea -1 and PDN at 50 g ha , provided highly effective control of Phalaris minor and BLWs viz. Medicago denticulata, Melilotus indica and Rumex dentatus. POE -1 -1 application of MTZ at 350 g ha and PDN at 50 g ha proved to be the most effective and economically viable strategy for weed control in conventional-till wheat.Item Nutrient profiling and in-vitro antioxidant activity assessment of selected red seaweed species of North-west coast of India(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Sawant, KS; Pailan, GH; Sardar, P; Jana, P; Xavier, KAM; Sukham, MK; Sahoo, S; Bhusare, S.Aim: Seaweed offers benefits over many terrestrial crops and can be used as food and feed ingredients. The objective was to study the nutritional value of particular red seaweeds. Methodology: Three species of red seaweed namely Centroceras clavulatum, Acanthophora specifera and Amphiora ancep from Wayangani coast, Ratnagiri, Maharashtra and two species such as Hylimenia venkata and Hylimenia venusta from Okha coast, Gujarat were collected and screened for biochemical characteristics, carotenoid composition, in-vitro antioxidant activity. Results: The seaweed proximate composition: crude protein, fat, total ash, crude fiber and nitrogen free extract ranged between 4.17-13.12, 0.44-0.91, 37.27-63.82, 2.43-6.07, 26.07-44.92 %, respectively. All the seaweed species contained lutein and zeaxanthin, xanthophyll carotenoids. The range of the total phenolic content was 180.92-375.16 mg GAE/g. The % DPPH radical scavenging capacity ranged from 41.32- 73.78%. The strongest positive association was found between TPC (r= 0.821, P=0.088) and total carotenoid; while the highest correlation was found between the antioxidant activity and TPC (r= 0.920, P=0.027). Interpretation: H. venusta exhibits exceptional properties and significant potential as a functional ingredient in fish feed, contributing to enhanced aquaculture nutrition and sustainability.Item Comparative abundance and diversity of anurans in transplanted and direct seeded rice crop agroecosystem(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Kaur, R; Singh, R; Dinesh, KPAim: Present study investigated the diversity, abundance and morphometry of anuran population in transplanted rice and direct seeded rice (DSR) agroecosystems in district Ludhiana and SBS Nagar during 2022 and 2023. Methodology: Visual Encounter Survey Method (VESM) was applied for estimating the anuran population in a belt transect of 50×4 m along a survey path at fortnight interval, and was pooled at month level from June to October. Results: Six and four anuran species were recorded from transplanted and DSR crop, respectively. Higher anuran population was reported from SBS Nagar in transplanted (14.81-19.32%) and DSR (28.49-29.93%) respectively as compared to Ludhiana. However, transplanted rice accommodated 24.71-33.72% more anurans than DSR crop. Positive correlation was recorded between anuran population and atmospheric temperature (0.181-0.492) and% relative humidity (0.628-0.822). Morphometric analysis revealed increase in body ratios of anurans (5.54 and 5.35% in transplanted and DSR, respectively) as compared to Ludhiana. Interpretation: Transplanted rice agroecosystems offer better habitat conditions for survival of anuran populations as compared to direct seeded rice (DSR) fields.Item Multivariate morphometric analysis of dwarf honey bees, Apis florea Fabricius and Apis andreniformis Smith in North-east India(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Taye, RR; Rahman, A; Deka, MK; Borkataki, S; Saikia, R; Zaman, ASN; Choudhury, MR; Khan, P; Bordoloi, D; Kakati, N.Aim: Morphometric study of dwarf honey bees had been undertaken from five physiographic zones of Northeast India. Methodology: Bee samples were collected randomlyfrom various agro-ecosystems. 26 morphometric traits were measured under stereoscopic zoom microscope for morphometric study. Multivariate statistical analysis were used to investigate population variations and relationship between the groups. Results: Two species of dwarf honey beesviz. Apis florea and Apis andreniformis were identified. The average body length of A. florea was 8.126±0.01 mm with average hamuli number of 12.150±0.07. In A. andreniformis the average body length and hamuli number were 6.940±0.08 mm and 10.467±0.03 respectively Cubital index in A. andreniformis was 5.214±0.03 while 2.491±0.07 in A. florea. Interpretation: Principal component analysis accounted for 82.184% of the total morphological variation. A. florea formed two morphoclusters viz., plain landraces including Brahmaputra valley and Barak valley and hill landraces including Arunachal Himalaya, Meghalaya Plateau and South eastern hill tract where they tend to cluster morphologically. Locally distributed species may be under future threat of extinction, due to changes in agricultural practices and climate change. The untapped native bee species are required to be documented properly in order to utilize the potentiality of these resources for the sustainable utilization and economic prosperity of the region.Item Physico-biochemical study of sugarcane jaggery under different cultivation and preparation methods(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-06) Sreedevi, P; Sunanda, N; Manoj, BS; Rao, P.V.K. JagannadhaAim: The present study was undertaken to compare the physico-biochemical and microbial qualities of organic, chemical-free and inorganic jaggery and the changes in microbial count during storage. Methodology: Jaggery was prepared by evaporating of sugarcane juice with or without addition of chemicals from organically or inorganically cultivated sugarcane. These organic, chemical-free and inorganic jaggery were analysed for physico-chemical, bioactive compounds and microbial properties. Results: The present study results that organic and chemical-free jaggery comes under Grade I, while inorganic jaggery comes under Grade II. The organic jaggery and chemical-free jaggery recorded 61% and 53%more total polyphenol content; 51% and 46% more antioxidant potential and 6% and 10% more total flavonoids c o m p a r e d t o i n o r g a n i c j a g g e r y respectively. However, the shelf-life of organic jaggery was less compared to inorganic jaggery due to high moisture content. Interpretation: The present study revealed significant difference in quality parameters in all three jaggery samples. Though, the inorganic jaggery was brighter in color with low microbial load, it falls short of beneficial components that are lost due to addition of chemicals during processing. Hence, organic jaggery followed by chemical-free jaggery can be recommended to both jaggery farmers and consumers for premium price and nutritional health benefit.Item Comparative analysis of amphibian community dynamics in relation to water quality in pond types across two Punjab districts, India(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-02) Sekhon, GS; Aulakh, RK; Kler, TK.Aim: The present study investigated amphibian community dynamics and water quality across six ponds which included rejuvenated, natural, and eutrophicated (dead) types in the Ludhiana and Jalandhar districts of Punjab, India, during the monsoon seasons of 2022 and 2023. Methodology: Amphibian species Duttaphrynus melanostaticus, Duttaphrynus stomaticus, Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis and Hoplobatrachus tigerinus were monitored using visual encounter surveys along the selected pond transects and their relative abundances were recorded water quality parameters were measured as per APHA (2023) standards. Results: Results indicated distinct trends: in Ludhiana, the Duttaphrynus stomaticus increased population in all pond types, while the Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis's abundance declined. On the contrary, Jalandhar ponds showed an increase in the population of Asian Common Toad. Water quality assessments revealed that rejuvenated ponds had significantly better conditions than eutrophicated ponds, with higher levels of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and total dissolved solids (TDS) in the latter. Regression analysis identified water temperature, dissolved oxygen, and BOD as significant predictors of amphibian abundance. Interpretation: The findings emphasize the importance of pond site-targeted environmental management, regular water quality monitoring and community participation to improve pond habitats and sustain amphibian populations.Item Incidence and demographic parameters of Lipaphis erysimi (Kaltenbach) on rapeseed-mustard in Terai agro-ecological region of West Bengal(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-02) Sarkar, SK; Saha, S; Nath, R; Chaudhuri, N; Ghosh, J; Ghosh, A; Senapati, S.K.Aim:Assessment of Lipaphis erysimi incidence on different rapeseed-mustard varieties. Biology and life table study of L. erysimi on variety Binoy. Methodology: Experiments were conducted at the Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya farm during Rabi season 2019-20 and 2020-21. Aphid and coccinellid populations were monitored on seven rapeseed-mustard cultivars at weekly intervals. The incidence was correlated to meteorological st conditions. Demographic factors of L. erysimi were investigated during the 1 fortnight of February for two generations on the Binoy variety in a greenhouse setting. th Results: Agrani and Binoy produced the best yield despite the highest aphid infestation. Aphid population rapidly increased from 4 standard th meteorological week (SMW) (flowering stage) and peaking during the 7 SMW (siliqual development stage). Different weather conditions have a nd th substantial effect on aphid and coccinellid populations. L. erysimi's nymphal period was longer during the 2 generation, which finished at the 7 SMW, st th whereas adult longevity and life cycle were longer during the 1 generation, which ended at the 6 SMW. Study on the demographic parameters showed th a diminishing population rate following the 7 SMW. Interpretation:Agrani and Binoy can tolerate aphid infestation. Protective measures need to be initiated before crop flowering.Item Assessment of genetic diversity in Nelumbo nucifera genotypes(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-02) Kumar, V; Kumar, R; Rana, M.Aim: The present investigation assessed the level of genetic diversity in the lotus (Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn.) genotypes grown naturally in Bihar (India). Methodology: In situ observations on 21 quantitative traits were recorded with five replications from each sampling site and data was analysed in a Completely Randomized Block Design. Results: Among all the genotypes BRL-01, BRL-08, BRL-21, and BRL-22 showed significant variation in the number of petals per flower, weight of flower, and flower colour. High values of genetic parameters were calculated for number of petals per flower, rhizome weight, rhizome length and weight of the flower. Number of petals per flower, number of leaf venation and diameter of the flower bud showed a significant positive correlation with the weight of flower. Path analysis revealed a highest positive direct effect of leaf length on flower weight at genotypic level. Interpretation: High GCV for all traits indicates the existence of genetic variation. The traits coupled with high heritability and genetic advance indicate the positive response for selection, primarily driven by additive gene action. Therefore, selection for traits such as number of petals per flower, length of flower stalk and weight of flower may be useful for the development of improved variety for flower attributes.Item Impact of modified microclimate on the performance of Green gram (Vigna radiata L.) under different planting systems in the Upper Brahmaputra Valley zone of Assam(Triveni Enterprises, 2025-04) Pathak, K; Neog, P; Medhi, K; Deka, RL; Sarmah, K; Kurmi, K; Bal, SK; Sultana, A.Aim: To study the impact of modified crop microclimate on the performance of green gram in a representative district of the Upper Brahmaputra Valley zone of Assam. Methodology: A field experiment was conducted during the summer of 2021 in the ICR Farm of Assam Agricultural University, Jorhat to study the impact of modified microclimates on the growth and yield of green gram under different planting systems. The variety SGC-16 was grown in a split-plot design th with 3 dates of sowing at an interval of 15 days starting from 20 th February (D ) till 20 March (D ) in main plots and three planting1 3 systems, i.e., P - ridge and furrow, P – raised bed with two rows1 2 in bed and P –flat bed in sub-plot treatment, with three3 replications following recommended agronomic practices. Results: The average soil moisture content in the upper 30 cm soil profile was highest in D (80.4±11.8 mm), followed by D3 2 (75.0±7.8 mm) and D (66.4±6.9 mm). Compared to P , the1 3 decrease in weekly evening soil temperatures under P and P1 2 was up to 2.1 and 1.4°C, respectively. Irrespective of sowing dates the mean maximum leaf area index (2.06) and higher pods per plant (16.7) were recorded under P . The seed yield1 under different sowing dates and planting systems ranged from -1 -1 286.3 to 681.0 kg ha with an overall mean of 509.8 kg ha . Correlation studies between seed yield, LAI and soil moisture in the upper 30 cm soil profile confirmed the existence of a significant and positive correlation between them. th Interpretation: The yield of the crop planted on 20 March (D ) under ridge and furrow planting (P ) was maximum, facilitated by optimum weather3 1 conditions with improved soil hydrothermal regimes at various phenological stages of entire crop growing season.