Journal of Environmental Biology

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Selection and development of superior strains through functional trait-based approach in agarophytic red alga Gracilaria dura (Rhodophyta)
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Dawange, P.S.; Mantri, V.A.; Jaiswar, S.
Aim: Gracilaria dura, a red agarophyte, is known for its high-quality agarose content and holds significant potential for commercial applications in aquaculture-related industries. The successful commercial utilization of seaweeds relies heavily on obtaining high-quality seed material with commercially valuable traits. Methodology: This study focuses on employing a functional trait-based approach to develop superior strains of G. dura for commercial aquaculture in India. Cultivation through an open sea farm, variations in growth, agar yield, pigments, antioxidant capacity, and primary productivity among the strains were observed. Results: The daily growth rate ranged from 0.5 to 3.5% per day, while pigment content exhibited variations in the Chlorophyll-a, R-Phycocyanin, and R-Phycoerythrin contents. Antioxidant capacity and gross primary productivity also displayed diverse ranges. From a total of 38 strains of G. dura, three were selected based on their growth and other functional traits, namely ADI0221201, VER0220090, and ADI0221202. Positive correlations were identified between growth and regeneration, as well as growth and Chl-a. Agar content showed a positive association with antioxidant capacity and productivity. 1H NMR analysis identified 12 metabolites as potential biomarkers for G. dura growth. Interpretation: All three selected strains hold promise for future commercial cultivation of Gracilaria dura. Furthermore, six additional strains were selected based on their higher growth and agar yield for targeted breeding and hybridization to enhance desirable traits.
Comparative studies on ber genotypes under arid conditions of Western Maharashtra
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Kamble, S.; Joshi, V.R.; Kulkarni, S.S.; Wanave, A.; Kumar, R.
Aim: To determine the nature and magnitude of variation among ber genotypes for different morphological and biochemical characters; and to identify the potential genotypes with promising attributes under arid conditions of Western Maharashtra. Methodology: The observations on metric traits were recorded following the standard procedures. The genetic divergence among the 28 ber genotypes was estimated by Principal Component Analysis and Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA). Results: The genotype S211 had performed better in terms of fruit weight and estimated the heaviest fruit (22.58 g). The maximum fruit length (4.3 cm) was determined in the genotype Mundia, while the genotype Seo had the maximum fruit diameter (3.60 cm). Genotypes Katha (6.8 kg), S211 (6.7 kg), Dandan (6.4 kg) and Betawadi (6.1 kg) were found superior for yield than the remaining genotypes. In terms of fruit quality, Senure No.3 contained maximum TSS content (21.70 ºBrix) whereas Mundia witnessed minimum titratable acidity (0.19%) and Safeda Rohtaki had the highest acidity percentage (0.87%). Interpretation: PCA revealed Nazuk, Bagwadi, Banarasi Pebandi, and Senure No.3 to be superior ber genotypes that outperformed PC1 and PC2 based on the quality of representation of these genotypes on the factor map.
Characterization of chemical composition of ethanolic extract of bee pollen in India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Khakhlary, D.; Rana, A.
Aim: Bee pollen is a mixture of pollen/male gametophyte of flowers, nectar/sweet liquid substance from flowers and salivary secretions of bees. It comprises a huge diversity of compounds which are thought to work together for medicinal purpose. The present study was undertaken to assess the bioactive components of bee pollens responsible for therapeutic properties. Methodology: The volatile chemicals compounds found in ethanolic extracts of Apis mellifera pollen were analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Results: The observations revealed the presence of hydrocarbons, sugars and their derivatives, fatty acids, glycosides, alcohol, esters, aldehyde and carbamate. Interpretation: Present findings authenticate huge chemical diversity and hence, further study on pollens is required due to its broad spectrum of potential medicinal and nutritional activities.
Morphological and molecular identification of the freshwater crab, Barytelphusa cunicularis from Kanniyakumari, India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Raj, T.G. Teeni Janet; Suganthi, A. Shyla; Raj, T.G. Tyni Joice; Anilkumar, G.
Aim: The present study aims to assess the taxonomical identification of commercially important freshwater crab, Barytelphusa cunicularis from Kumba River, Kanniyakumari using morphological and molecular tools. Methodology: Samples of B. cunicularis were collected from Kumba River flowing in Kilamalai, Kanniyakumari district. The species identification was carried out through morphological keys constructed out of a coding matrix and phylogenetic tree (Maximum Parsimony) using Mesquite and PAUP4 software. 18S rRNA sequence was subjected to BLAST analysis, and the phylogenetic tree was constructed through Maximum Likelihood method using MEGA 11 software. Pairwise genetic distance of the species (p-distance,p = nd/n) was also assessed by comparing the K2P values involving phylogenetically close and distant relatives. Results: Coding matrix prepared using the morphological keys, raised out of 28 distinctive characteristics of B. cunicularis and comparison with its phylogenetic relatives, have brought in valuable information on status of the species. These findings were further established by Maximum Likelihood Analysis, using the PCR amplicons of 18S rRNA. The phylogram prepared out of the sequence clearly reveals the candidate species' phylogenetic proximity to other members of the genus Barytelphusa. Further, the species' monophyletic status (with a BS value of 81%) suggests its early divergence from its congeners. The K2P pairwise genetic 'p' distance analysis (p = nd/n) of the 18S rRNA has helped us not only to further ascertain the extent of its genetic identity with its congeners, but as well has clearly provided us with the valuable cues per precise identification of the species. Interpretation: Along with the morphological parameters, the present study, using molecular tools, provides valuable information for precise identification of the commercially important freshwater crab.
Nano-curcumin ameliorates arsenic induced hepatotoxicity in female rats
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Vashistha, L.M.; Singh, M.; Verma, Y.; Rana, S.V.S.
Aim: To determine the protective effects of curcumin and nanocurcumin against arsenic-induced hepatotoxicity in female rats, using liver function tests and oxidative stress parameters. Methodology: Arsenic trioxide (4 mg kg-1 b.wt.), curcumin and nano curcumin (50 mg kg-1 b.wt.) were administered to healthy rats as a chronic treatment for 60 days through gavage. The liver tissue samples of exposed rats were examined for histopathological alterations, liver function tests viz. alanine transaminase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), bilirubin (BIL) and a lipid peroxidation product-malonaldehyde (MDA). Results: Treatments with both forms of curcumin could significantly (p 0<0.05) improve liver function as indicated by serum enzyme biomarkers viz. AST, ALT, ALP and LDH. Hyper-bilirubinemia was also diminished. Fibro-proliferation caused by arsenic in the liver was also controlled by curcumin (s). Histopathological observations of liver showed significant improvement in its morphology post treatments. Interpretation: Present results suggest that curcumin and nanocurcumin both express hepatoprotective effects in arsenic treated rats. However, nanocurcumin was found to offer better protection than curcumin.
Diversity of Ceratium Schrank (Dinophyceae) species in the surface waters of Dhamra, Odisha, Eastern India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Pradhan, S.P.; Nayak, S.; Sharma, S.N.; Nayak, S.; Nayak, P.; Muduli, N.; Patnaik, L.
Aim: To study the diversity of Ceratium Schrank (Dinophyceae) species in the surface waters of Dhamra, Odisha, Eastern India. Methodology: The present study was carried out at six GPS coordinated stations in the coastal waters of Dhamra, Odisha during pre-monsoon, monsoon and post-monsoon periods (March 2021, October 2021 and February 2022). Standard methods were followed for measuring sea surface temperature, transparency, dissolved oxygen, pH, alkalinity, salinity, silicate, nitrite, nitrate and phosphate. Samples were collected by filtration as well as towing method. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy were carried out for the identification of Ceratium species. Results: A total of twenty-eight species of Ceratium were observed. Out of the reported twenty-eight species, C. massiliense var. armatum and C. breve var. breve have not been reported earlier in the coastal waters of Dhamra, Odisha. Diversity of Ceratium species was influenced by various parameters. Analyses of water quality parameters, showed that the transparency, salinity, alkalinity, nitrite and phosphate were maximum during pre-monsoon whereas temperature and silicate concentration were higher in monsoon. Similarly, during post-monsoon, pH and nitrate concentration were maximum. Availability of nutrients might have probably influenced the distribution of Ceratium species in the coastal waters and one of the sources was from the riverine influx. Interpretation: Abundance of Ceratium species is probably regulated by alkalinity, high transparency, salinity and phosphate concentration in the surrounding water. Dhamra coastal water is conducive for the growth of Ceratium sp. which primarily uses phosphate for developing the horns.
Physico-chemical, nutritional and sensory properties of cookies substituted with banana peel powder from three different traditional varieties
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Naveen, D.; Shiva, K.N.; Kumar, P. Suresh; Kamaraju, K.; Sivananth, C.; Sivasankari, R.; Uma, S.
Aim: To analyze the physico-chemical, nutritional and sensory properties of cookies substituted with banana peel powder from Karpuravalli (ABB), Monthan (ABB) and Nendran (AAB) varieties. Methodology: Matured banana bunches were harvested from ICAR - NRCB farm followed by separation of peel and pulp manually. The peels were cut into small pieces and soaked in 0.05% potassium metabisulfite for 15 min to prevent browning. They were dried in a hot air oven (55 ± 20C), and converted into powder using an attrition mill. The cookies were prepared according to the AACC (2000) method 10-54.01 with minor modifications. The developed cookies were analyzed for their physical, proximate chemical composition viz., moisture, colour, total carbohydrate, total starch, total sugar, fat, fiber, ash, protein, total phenols, flavonoids and minerals. Results: Addition of banana peel powder in the cookies significantly improved the nutritional properties by altering its fiber content from 1.02% to 2.98% and decreasing the fat content by 19.95 to 22.23%. It also decreased the hardness of the cookies. The sensory results revealed that the banana peel flour incorporated cookies also scored equal to that of control cookies. Interpretation: Banana peel has potential component for improving the nutritional characteristics of cookies and to make functional foods.
Generation Mean Analysis for quantitative traits in the population of AKDRMS 21-54 x YH3 cross of rice (Oryza sativa L.)
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-11) Duppala, M.K.; Srinivas, T.; Suneetha, Y.; Suresh, G.
Aim: To study the genetic components of inheritance for 12 quantitative traits which leads into genetic improvement by identification of gene actions for yield and yield related traits. Methodology: Twelve quantitative traits for yield and yield attributing traits were studied at Agricultural College, Bapatla during Rabi 2021-22 deploying Hayman's five parameter model generation mean analysis in estimating the gene effects in the population (P1, P2, F1, F2 and F3) generated from the cross AKDRMS 21-54 x YH3. Estimated mean effects affirm the existence of significant variation in the traits studied. Significance of either one or both, scales C or D inferred the existence of epistatic interaction for the traits studied. Digenic non-allelic interaction model explained the gene action of the traits studied in the present investigation. Results: The generation mean for all the traits showed the importance of both additive and dominance type of gene effects. Among the epistatic gene effects, the additive x additive gene interaction was reported predominant for shoot length, plant height, flag leaf length, spikelet fertility and flag test weight. The gene interaction is associated with homozygosity, therefore, pedigree method of breeding may be adopted for isolation of desirable lines, while for all other traits, along with grain yield per plant, dominance x dominance gene interaction was found to be pre-dominant. The gene interaction is not fixable, hence, population improvement approaches, would be effective. Interpretation: Dominance x dominance gene interaction was predominant for grain yield per plant and majority of yield component traits studied coupled with duplicate epistasis, infers to takeup population improvement approaches, such as bi-parental mating and recurrent selection, followed by isolation of purelines in later generations for competent improvement.
Length-weight relationship of six freshwater fish species from Wular Lake - A Ramsar site in Kashmir Himalaya, India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Mushtaq, S.T.; Balkhi, M.H.; Bhat, F.A.; Shah, T.H.; Mushtaq, S.A.; Qadri, S.; Farooq, I.; Rehman, A.
Aim: This study was undertaken to understand the length weight relation of six freshwater fish species from Wular Lake. Methodology: A total of 303 specimen belonging to two families (Cyprinidae and Nemacheilidae) and four genera (Schizothorax, Triplophysa, Crossocheilus, Puntius) from Wular Lake were collected from five different sites with the help of local skilled fishermen using cast nets and traditional nets. Total length and weight were measured to the closest 0.1 mm and 0.01 g employing a digital caliper and weighing balance, respectively. Results: The values of the exponent b in length-weight relationship was recorded as 2.05 for Triplophysa marmorata, 0.31 for Crossocheilus diplochilus, 0.12 for Pethia conchonius, 4.14 for Schizothorax niger, 2.58 for Schizothorax esocinus and 4.93 for Schizothorax curvifrons respectively. These results provide the primary basic information on length-weight parameters of these commercially important fish species from Wular Lake. Interpretation: Length-weight relationship can form a baseline data that can be further employed to study the growth pattern of fish species in the lake. This would help in the development of a strategy for conservation of natural stocks of these endemic fish species in Wular Lake.
Metabolomic screening for therapeutic potential in Mimela sp., an edible insect of the Arunachal Pradesh region
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Tukshipa, S.; Muni, N.; Prveen; Chakravorty, J.
Aim: Mimela sp. a small coleopteran beetle is rich in proteins, essential amino acids, fatty acids, some vitamins and minerals. It contains nutritional and therapeutic values. Therefore, this study was conducted to identify the bioactive compounds of aqueous and ethanol extracts of Mimela sp. to understand its pharmacological/therapeutic importance. Methodology: The biologically active metabolites were analysed using Agilent Quadrupole time of flight mass analyser (Q-TOF-MS). Chromatographic separations were performed using 5 ul of aqueous and ethanolic sample injected onto an Agilent ultra high performance liquid chromatography system. Elution was carried out using solvent A (0.1% Formic acid in water) and solvent B (90% Acetonitrile +10% H2O+ 0.1% Formic acid) at a flow rate of 300 ul min-1 for 30 min. Results: Analysis of both aqueous and ethanol extracts of Mimela sp. showed the presence of important chemical compounds like alpha amino acids (L-Ornithine, (R)-(+)-2-Pyrrolidone-5-Carboxylic acid), monoesters (Ethyl hydrogen sulphate, Carboxylic acid (Benzoic acid), monoterpenoids (Linaylphenylacetate), Cyclic polyols (D-Pinitol), phenols (Vanillic acid, Phyllohydroquinone) and polyphenols (Gentisic acid), which have immunological, antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antiviral properties. Interpretation: Mimela sp. contain appreciable number. of bioactive compounds which can be further isolated and developed as drugs for modern medicines.
Biology of the epigeic earthworm, Eisenia fetida in different organic wastes
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Shetty, A.; Biradar, P.M.
Aim: A study was undertaken to know the influence of different organic wastes on the biology of the epigeic earthworm, Eisenia fetida. Methodology: Epigeic earthworm, Eisenia fetida was selected and collected. Organic wastes (Corn stover, Delonix regia and Eichhornia crassipes) which are abundant and locally available were collected and used as feed materials along with cattle manure as control in this experiment. Results: The minimum incubation period and the maximum number of hatchlings per cocoon were observed in cattle manure (Control) as compared to other organic wastes. Percent cocoon hatching was 100% in all organic wastes, including control. The weight of freshly emerged juvenile was almost same in all organic wastes with no significant variations. The worm biomass was maximum in Eichhornia crassipes, whereas growth rate, attainment of sexual maturity and rate of cocoon production was maximum in cattle manure followed by other organic wastes. Interpretation: A successful vermitechnological process not only depends on the type of organic waste, but also depends on the biology of earthworm species. Based on the results, it can be concluded that epigeic earthworm, Eisenia fetida can be efficiently used in the vermitechnological process for organic waste management so as to maintain the balanced ecosystem.
Production of surfactin from novel Bacillus spp. isolated from soil and its antifungal properties
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Abirami, N.; Jesteena, J.; Ragunathan, R.
Aim: This research aimed to screen the biosurfactant-producing bacteria from soil, especially for the betterment of the environment in terms of bioremediation and biodegradation of lipids and hydrocarbons. Methodology: Bacillus spp. isolated from the soil was cultured and inoculated into different mineral media such as Glucose, Sawdust, and Bagasse mineral media. The surfactin was extracted and the activity was studied using oil emulsification test, oil spreading assay, and drop collapse assay. Bacillus spp. that provided better results were sequenced and submitted to NCBI. The surfactin of the specific bacteria was characterized using TLC, UV-vis spectra, and FTIR analysis. Finally, the antifungal activity assay was performed against Aspergillus flavus, Rhizopus spp., and Aspergillus niger. Results: Bacillus species subjected to gene sequencing was identified as Bacillus mycoids strain ARJCBNR (On464184). UV-vis spectra and FTIR analyses revealed various functional groups such as 3356.14 cm-1 (N-H stretch), 1635.64 cm-1 (C=O amide), and 1211 cm-1 (C-O stretch) representing the surfactin compound between 4000 and 500 cm-1. Upon antifungal activity, sawdust-extracted surfactin had a higher zone of inhibition against all the tested fungi. Interpretation: This study revealed that Bacillus spp. can utilize agro-industrial waste as substrate to produce surfactin. Also, the surfactin extracted from sawdust mineral media showed higher antifungal activity.
Predicting the incidence and severity of wheat aphids and development of a web-enabled forewarning system in India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-01) Kumar, A.; Sharma, R.; Singh, B.; Patil, S.D.; Srivastava, C.P.; Singh, G.P.; Joshi, A.K.
Aim: Forecasting the incidence and severity of aphids, the major insect pest of wheat, is expected to significantly help in their management. In the present study, a set of weather-based models were developed to predict the timing and severity of Rhopalosiphum maidis infestation at Ludhiana falling under the North Western Plain Zone and R. padi at Niphad in the Peninsular Zone of India. Methodology: The weather indices-based regression models for two locations, Ludhiana and Niphad, were developed using the aphid population and weather data gathered over eight years (2006–14), and the models' predictive accuracy was successfully tested over four additional years (2014-18). The developed statistical models were transformed into three-tier architecture, web-based system, i.e. Presentation, application and data tier for dissemination of information. Results: The developed models can predict the crop’s age - when aphids first colonize the plants, when the aphid population attains the peak and the information about the peak intensity of the aphid population. For predicting the crop’s age at which population peaked at Ludhiana, the weighted interaction of the relative humidity (RH) in the evening and the number of hours of sunshine (NHS) along with the weighted interaction of minimum temperature and RH (morning) were important parameters while, at Niphad, the weighted NHS and the interaction of RH (morning and evening) were important. Likewise, for predicting the maximum aphid population at Ludhiana, the weighted interaction of minimum temperature and RH (morning) were important, while at Niphad, the key parameters were the weighted interaction of RH (evening) with the NHS. Interpretation: A prototype system developed to forecast the location-specific (Ludhiana and Niphad) infestation of wheat crops by aphids is expected to facilitate aphid management through an accurate forewarning at the locations.
The influence of greenwashing on sustainable behaviour: The mediators of green perceived risk and green scepticism
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Kavitha, R.; Kumar, N. Senthil
Aim: To evaluate how greenwashing can affect sustainable behaviour. This study also explores the role of green perceived risk and green scepticism as mediators and how these mediators affect each other sequentially in the relationship between greenwashing and sustainable behaviour. Methodology: As people are now completely dependent on gadgets in their daily lives, therefore, the researcher solicited consumers who had purchased eco-friendly gadgets from shopping malls and other electronic stores 450 subjects were selected using "purposive sampling". Indian consumers in Chennai, Hyderabad, Bengaluru, and Pondicherry are the subjects of the study. Responses were obtained through the use of a questionnaire. To test the research hypotheses, the study used SPSS 25 and AMOS 21. Results: The results indicate that the negative correlation between green washing and sustainable behaviour was mediated by green perceived risk and green scepticism, and these mediators serially affected green washing and sustainable behaviour. Interpretation: This study suggests that firms should integrate transparency into green products without employing greenwash, which would increase consumer trust in green products and reduce green perceived risk and green scepticism among them. Consumers today are aware of greenwashing and have started to investigate it. This research is crucial to protect both the environment and mankind.
Influence of cropping sequences on soil suppressive/conduciveness against Sclerotium rolfsii in different agro-climatic zones of West Bengal, India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Sen, K.; Dutta, S.; Halder, S.K.; Pati, B.; Goldar, S.; Patar, S.; Bharati, D.R.S.; Patsa, R.; Ghorai, A.K.; Sarker, K.; Kumar, R.; Ray, K.; Borah, T.R.; Ray, S.K.; Barman, A.R.
Aim: To study the influence of different cropping sequences (CSs) on soil suppressive or conduciveness towards Sclerotium rolfsii in different agro-climatic zones (ACZs) of West Bengal, India. Methodology: Farmer’s field surveys were conducted to explore the suppressive activity of various crop rhizosphere during each winter, October to January (2016-2019). The survey was done in 14 districts of five ACZs in West Bengal (India), and the total surveyed sample size was 511. The S. rolfsii disease incidence (DI%) data of Rabi crop in surveyed areas and sclerotial population, soil suppressive index, FDA hydrolysis, dehydrogenase activity and culturable microbial assay were performed. Results: In this data set (n=511), the foremost soils belonged to no suppressive category (74.47%), followed by slight suppressive category (20.74%). Negligible number of soils belonged to moderate (0.39%) and strong suppressive (0.39%) category. The population of Pseudomonads was higher in both strong and moderate suppressive soil rather than slight and no suppressive soils. Culturable population of soil Pseudomonads, Bacillus and Actinomycetes varied in five different ACZs. Interpretation: Paddy-brassica vegetables, paddy-maize and paddy-cucurbits vegetable-based CSs exhibited relatively high soil uppressiveness whereas paddy-legumes, jute-paddy-legume vegetables and pulses based CSs showed high soil conduciveness towards S. rolfsii. Soil microbial influences on crop rhizosphere along with “crop rotation effect” was the key reason for the disease suppressive activity.
Agro-industrial waste based substrate for production of two major cultivated oyster mushrooms in sub-Himalayan West Bengal
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-07) Saha, S.; Tamang, S.; Saha, D.; Saha, A.
Aim: To compare the outcomes of various agro-industrial wastes on the growth, yield and nutritional contents of two major cultivated oyster mushrooms, Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus djamor. Methodology: Locally available agro-industrial wastes were utilized as substrate in five formulations including rice straw alone and in combination with card board (7: 3), waste paper (7: 3), rice husk (17:3) and jack fruit saw dust (7:3). After sterilization substrates were inoculated with mature spawn and placed in cropping room. Results: Total yield, biological efficiency and nutritional contents were found better in the fruiting bodies of Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus djamor cultivated on rice straw as the sole substrate than the mixed substrate formulations. Total colonization period (22.6 days for P. ostreatus and 20.2 days for P. djamor) was quite less for both the oyster mushroom cultivated in rice husk mixed substrate among mixed substrate formulations. Among mixed substrate formulations, highest total yield was obtained from waste paper mixed substrate for Pleurotus ostreatus (713.8 g) and card board mixed substrate for Pleurotus djamor (737.7 g). The highest carbohydrate content in Pleurotus ostreatus and Pleurotus djamor were found in card board mixed substrate. Total protein content was high in fruiting bodies cultivated on saw dust mixed substrate for both the oyster mushrooms. Interpretation: Card board, waste paper, rice husk and saw dust mixed substrates showed relatively high fruiting body yield and nutritional values. It can be concluded that these agro-industrial waste appears to be the promising ingredients in combination with rice straw for cultivation of oyster mushroom.
Effect of thyroxine on Na+/K+-ATPase and SDH activities in gills and kidney during osmotic adjustments of Heteropneustes fossilis at higher salinity
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-01) Sherwani, F.A.
Aim: The aim of the present study was to investigate the facilitatory role of thyroxine during adaptation process of catfish, Heteropneustes fossilis in higher salinity following its exogenous administration by monitoring changes in plasma osmolality, branchial and renal sodium-potassium dependent adenosine triphosphatase and succinic dehydrogenase enzyme activity profiles and study the effect of direct transfer of fish to higher salinities on plasma thyroxine levels. Methodology: Catfish were directly transferred from tap water to 30 and 35% sea water and plasma thyroxine profiles were analysed. Fish were injected with thyroxine at a dose of 2 and 5 µg g-1 b.wt. daily for five days and then transferred to tap water and 30% sea water. Fish were sampled after day 3 and day 6, post-transfer and plasma osmolality was measured, and the enzyme activities were determined in gills and kidney. Results: Higher levels of plasma thyroxine were observed after transfer of fish from tap water to higher salinities. Treatment of fish with thyroxine at higher dose (5 µg g-1 b.wt.) showed a significant increase in plasma osmolality in tap water (p<0.05) while the enzymes in gills were found to be significantly higher both in tap water (p<0.05; p<0.01for Na+/K+-ATPase and p<0.001 for SDH) and 30% sea water (p<0.001for Na+/K+-ATPase and p<0.01; p<0.001 for SDH). No significant changes were observed in any of the parameters analysed after exogenous administration of thyroxine at lower dose (2 µg g-1 b.wt.). Interpretation: Thyroxine affects the osmotic adjustment of fish following transfer to higher salinities and its exogenous administration at at a dose of 5 µg g-1 b.wt. may improve the hypoosmoregulatory ability.
Bionomics, length-weight relationship and condition factor of Chocolate mahseer, Neolissochilus hexagonolepis from Dikhu River, Nagaland
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Kechu, M.; Ezung, S.; Pankaj, P.P.
Aim: Chocolate mahseer (Neolissochilus hexagonolepis) is widely distributed in the North-eastern region of India. The study aimed to evaluate the bionomic aspects of chocolate mahseer of Nagaland to validate its status. Methodology: Fish Neolissochilus hexagonolepis were collected from March 2019 to February 2020 from Dikhu River, Nagaland. Regression analysis for morphometric study was conducted using the least square method. Logarithmically transformed total length and weight data were utilized to determine the correlation coefficient 'r', coefficient of determination 'r²', and condition factor for male, female, and pooled groups. Results: The highest correlation was seen in standard length ('r' = 0.9968), and the least correlation was observed in eye diameter ('r' = 0.7769). The length-weight relationship exhibited two growth patterns, namely negative allometric growth, which were represented by females (b = 2.807) and pooled (b = 2.868) population, whereas the population of males displayed positive allometric growth (b = 3.015). The correlation coefficient and coefficient of determination of males, females and the pooled sexes showed a positive correlation with relation to its length and weight ranging from 'r' = 0.970 - 0.981 and 'r²' = 0.941 - 0.961, respectively. The condition factor for all the groups ranged from 1.10 - 1.14. Interpretation: Morphometric traits like standard length, snout length, head length etc. (dependent variable) were analyzed on total length (independent variable), signifying a positive correlation among variables. Length-weight relationship displayed high significance between length and weight parameters. The condition factor for all the groups indicated general well-being of fish condition in their environment.
In-silico molecular docking study to investigate the disinfection performance of barium ferrate towards Vibrio species isolated from aquaculture wastewater
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Manisha; Dadhich, A.S.; Sen, A.
Aim: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the disinfection performance of barium ferrate towards Vibrio species isolated from aquaculture wastewater and comparison with potassium ferrate via molecular docking study. Methodology: The experiments were conducted on Vibrio species isolated from aquaculture wastewater. The barium ferrate dose as Fe(VI) for the treatment ranged from 3.68 to 22.08 mg l-1, respectively. The contact time for the experiment varied from 10 to 60 min. The disinfection performance was calculated by the plate count method. The experimental study was also modeled with density functional theory (DFT) studies. Results: Barium ferrate showed effective disinfection against Vibrio species. A dose of 18.4 mg l-1 Fe(VI) was sufficient for complete disinfection of Vibrio species in 50 min. The initial plate count of 33000 per 100 ml was determined by the CFU method decreased to 0 per 100 ml. The docking study revealed that the binding energy for the interaction of barium ferrate with the Vibrio cholera bacterial protein was-49.71 kcal mol-1. Interpretation: Barium ferrate, a green chemical, thoroughly disinfects Vibrio species without producing harmful by-products, making barium ferrate a suitable disinfectant for aquaculture wastewater treatment.
Litter dynamics of forest ecosystem in an urban and pristine area of West Bengal, India
(Triveni Enterprises, 2023-09) Banerjee, R.; Gangopadhyay, S.; Batabyal, S.; Das, N.; Ray, H.; Mandal, S.
Aim: A comparative assessment of forest litterfall dynamics was carried out between the Garadaha forest (GF or urban) and the Pratappur forest (PF or pristine), located in Burdwan districts of West Bengal, and the litterfall components were correlated with the environmental factors that govern the dynamics. Methodology: Nets of dimension 1m × 1m were placed below the tress of both forests and litter was collected at regular intervals per month and brought to the laboratory for separation into the categories like leaf litter, woody litter (bark), miscellaneous (mixed) and twig. Two types of litterfall such as specific litterfall and standing litterfall were calculated. Environmental factors such as maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, wind speed, solar irradiance, and photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) were studied simultaneously followed by correlation and Principal Component Analysis. Results: Pre-monsoon showed the highest total litterfall (specific litterfall and standing litterfall) in both types of forests. The decomposition quotient was higher in the pristine forest than in the urban forest. The correlation between litterfall components and environmental factors showed that solar irradiance was positively correlated with litterfall dynamics. Interpretation: The work emphasizes the forest management of urban areas impacted by industrialization and urbanization. The anthropogenic causes influence the plant growth and litterfall pattern thereby affecting the decomposition process and soil health. The selection of proper tree species should be given priority for social forestry in industrialized zones of India.

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