INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF LIFE SCIENCES

161-171

Authors: Assefa Workineh

Moisture conservation, minimum tillage and residue retention are conservation farming management options that may enhance crop yield and soil fertility sustainably in the dry land areas of Ethiopia. Study on conservation farming (CF) was conducted in moisture deficit area of Tigray, Northern Ethiopia from 2013-2014 cropping seasons. The experiment conducted both on station and on farmers’ field. Included treatments were; conventional tillage + fertilizer, conventional tillage without fertilizer, subsoiler + fertilizer, subsoiler + tie ridging + fertilizer subsoiler + tie-ridging + intercropping+ fertilizer, subsoiler + tie-ridging + intercropping + fertilizer, subsoiler + tie ridging + transplanting, subsoiler + planting basin +fertilizer and subsoiler + transplanting on planting basin+ fertilizer. Significantly, more variation was observed among the tillage practices for the studied agronomic traits. Higher mean Sorghum grain yield of 2.40 (+1.5 and 1.4 t ha-1 over the conventional treatments with and without fertilizer respectively and 2.50 t ha-1 (+1.6 and +1.5 t ha-1 over the conventional treatments with and without fertilizer respectively) were recorded from transplanted sorghum seedlings and directly planted sorghum seeds in planting basin respectively in the researcher managed conservation plots using early maturing ‘Hormat’ variety. Similarly, 2.40 t ha-1 and 2.38 t ha-1 grain yield were obtained from tie-ridging and transplanting at planting basin respectively, while the lowest mean grain yield of 0.94 t ha-1 was obtained from the conventional tillage without fertilize treatment in the farmers managed conservation plots. Mean Grain yield of 3.90 and 5.60 t/ha were also obtained from ‘Kodem’ and ‘Abaere’ Sorghum land races, respectively planted in basin at farmers field. Some soil chemical properties (like total nitrogen, available phosphorus and organic carbon) on the conservation treatments show increment. Participating farmers also select transplanting and direct planting on planting basin tillage techniques first and second respectively based on over all crop performance. Planting basin supported conservation tillage packages can enhance crop, water and soil productivity in sustainably and help mitigate the effects of prolonged dry spells in the moisture deficit of Tigray.

181-186

Authors: Hintsa Meresa, Fantay Belay, Atsbaha Gebreslase, and Kassa Melese

Hot Pepper (Capsicum annum L.) is one of the major economically important horticultural crops in Tanqua-Abergelle district. However, its productivity is low mainly due to soil nutrient deficiency and using unappropriated rate of Fertilizer. NPS is one of the most deficient elements in the area. The experiments were designed to study the effect of NPS levels accompanied with one level of DAP as standard check (150, 200, 250kg/ha NPS and 200kg DAP/ha carried out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The analyzed result showed the growth yield and yield components of pepper (Capsicum annuum L) were observed from 2014 to 2016 under irrigation. NPS levels was significantly affected on pepper fruit number per plant, total yield and marketable yields. However, on fruit length, plant height and unmarketable yields are not revealed significance difference. The level of 200kg/ha NPS Significantly showed highest marketable yield 101.97qt/ha than the other treatments (150kg/ha NPS, 250 kg/ha NPS and 200 kg/ha of DAP. Based on the economic feasibility 200kg/ha of NPS fertilizer gives a significant marginal rate of return (3013.8%). Thus, level have best profitability advantage over the other treatments. Therefore, according the result (yield and MRR) the conclusion is using the 200kg/ha important to increase yields for the growers in the study area. Thus, to fill the pepper production constraints resulted from nutrient deficiencies such as nitrogen, phosphorus and sulfur fertilizer, further research on NPS combination levels, nutrient use efficiencies, nutrient uptake rate and nutrient recovery is crucial. Moreover, further research across locations and years deemed important to validate the current result of this research work.

191-200

Authors: Yangchen Dolma

Purpose: A study was done to develop and evaluate the effectiveness of an information booklet on “Healthy living after kidney transplantation” in terms of patients knowledge and quality of life (QOL) in renal transplant patients of selected hospitals of Delhi, India. Methods and material: Structured questionnaire was the tool used. Content validity was obtained by giving it to nine experts. Reliability of tool was established prior to pilot study by KR-20 for knowledge questionnaire and Cronbach Alpha for QOL measurement scale. The subjects were approached personally in renal transplant clinic and pre test was administered on day one followed by the administration of the information booklet on the same day. On the day 15, post test was done. Data obtained was analyzed and interpreted in the light of objectives and hypothesis using descriptive and inferential statistics. Result: The study showed that 42% each were in the age group of 18-30 years and 31-50 years and most of the patients were male (72%) and many of them were not working (33%). The data also showed that thirty eight percent of them were educated up to graduate level and thirty nine percent of them had family income of Rs 5001- 20,000 per month. Most of them belong to joint family (63%). There was significant difference between the knowledge and QOL scores of patients before and after administration of information booklet. There was significant correlation found between the knowledge and QOL scores of the patients. The study revealed that there was significant association between knowledge scores of the patients with selected factors like age and education of the patients but there was no significant association between knowledge and factors life gender and occupation. The study also revealed that there was significant association between the QOL of the patients with selected factors like age, family income, duration of transplantation, source of donor, rejection episode, hospitalization, co-morbidities, duration of dialysis prior to transplant and procurement of medicines but it was found that this study doesn’t show any significant association of QOL with factors like type of family, number of transplantation and patient’s Body Mass Index. Conclusion: It was concluded that the developed information booklet enhanced the knowledge of the post renal transplant patient on self care thus improving the QOL of these patients thus the information booklet can be used in different health care units and also in community for the renal transplant patients.

212-220

Authors: Sujit Sundaram1, Sushant Mane2 and Dhanashree Bagade3

Octopus diversity was studied from Maharashtra waters during the period January 2000 - December 2017. Eight species were identified and they are Cistopus chinensis Zheng, Lin, Lu and Ma, 2012, ‘Octopus’ tehuelchus d’Orbigny, 1834 [In 1834-1847], Amphioctopus neglectus (Nateewathana and Norman, 1999), Amphioctopus marginatus (Taki, 1964), Macrotritopus defilippi (Verany, 1851), Octopus “vulgaris” type IV Cuvier, 1797, Amphioctopus kagoshimensis (Ortmann, 1888) and Argonauta hians [Lightfoot], 1786. The estimated annual catch in trawl and the catch rate of Octopus (all species combined) for the period 2000-2017 from NFW showed an increasing trend from 2.3 t (2002) to a peak of 501.7 t (2016) and and the corresponding catch rate ranged from 0.001 kg/hr (2002) to 0.155 kg/hr (2016).

229-235

Authors: Khalid Lubna P and Pulate PV

Arbuscular Mychorrhizai fungus is a key component of soil, which associate with root and rhizosphere of soil and create symbiotic association. In the present work, five soil samples were collected from five different sites of Amravati region (Maharashtra) for isolation and identification of AM spores, for this sieves and decanting method were used and observed that all the collected sample were infected by AM fungi but there population varied according to the soil sample, the Chandur Railway and Mardi site having maximum population of Am fungi but the Malkhed site contain very less population. The isolated spore belongs to five Genera which are Acaulospora, Entrophosphora, Gigospora, Glomus and Scutelospora. Glomus species was observed high amount.

249-255

Authors: Subhashree Satapathy and Gurudutta Pattnaik

Background: Paederia foetida (Prasarini) is a traditionally used herb majorly against diarrhoea and dysentery. It is well known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also used for increasing male testosterone level. Aim: This study was conducted to evaluate the antioxidant properties of the medicinal herb P. foetida. Further, High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) of P. foetida extracts were done in order to determine the presence of phenolics and flavonoid compounds which essential for the antioxidant property of the plant. Methods: The leaf extracts were prepared using 4 solvents, methanol, acetone, ethyl acetate and water. The antioxidant property was evaluated by DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS method using Ascorbic acid as standard. In HPLC, Caffeic acid, Ferrulic acid, Galic acid, p-Coumaric acid, Quercetin, Myricetin, Kaemperol and Isorhamnetin were used for the analysis. The standards were dissolved in HPLC grade methanol. The dilutions of the standards were done from the range of 20µg/ml to 100µg/ml followed by making the standard curve. Results: It was concluded from the DPPH assay that the ethyl acetate extract of P. foetida leaves had the highest free radical scavenging activity than other extracts, however, from the ABTS assay it was concluded that the acetone extract of P. foetida had the highest free radical scavenging activity. From the HPLC analysis it was confirmed that the ethyl acetate extract and the highest number of phenolic compounds, however they had moderate number of flavonoid compounds. Conclusion: The antioxidant property of P. foetida leaves is very high as they are rich in phenolic compounds and can be extracted using ethyl acetate and acetone.

261-267

Authors: Tumane PM, Shamli Sahu, Wasnik DD & Kolte NA

The present investigation enphasized the biodegradation of xenobiotics like phenol by using Aspergillus niger isolated from waste fruits. Phenolic compounds are hazardouse pollutants that ae toxic to the natural ecosystem at very low concentration. Biodegeradation is the process by which organic substances are broken down into smaller compounds by the catalytic activity of living microbial organisms. The percentage of phenol degeradation in 40µl flask after 3rd day was 10%, after 7th was 51.60%, after 8th was 73.33%. The maximum phenol degeradation was observed at 8th day. The percentage of phenol degeredation in 60µl flask after 3rd day was 21.87%, after 7th day was 69.53%, after 8th day was 77.34%. When compared the result of 40µl and 60µl phenol concentration, the maximum phenol degeradation was observed in flask containing 60µl phenol concentration. No phenol degeradation was observed in 100µl flask. Biodegeradation is completely safe and ecofriendly. Biodegeradation not cause any type of pollution and also a cheap method so economically also benificial.

275-280

Authors: Chakrabarti Saumen

The present study makes a comparative record on the density and seasonal abundance of cladoceran and copepod fauna in a wetland ecosystem of Tripura during a period from March 2017 to February 2019. The present observation revealed the presence of 11 species of cladoceran fauna belonging to 7 genera and 5 families. Quantitative analysis during the study period revealed that Daphnidae is the dominant family with 4 species followed by Chydoridae with 3 species, Macrothricidae with 2 species while Moinidae and Sididae have only 1 species each , thus contributing 46%, 29%, 13%, 9% and 3 % respectively to the cladoceran fauna of the studied wetland under observation. The percentage composition of each cladoceran species in the studied wetland was also noted. On the contrary, the present observation also revealed the presence of 5 species of copepoda belonging to 4 genera and 2 families. Quantitative analysis during the study period revealed that Cyclopidae is the dominant family with 4 species followed by Diaptomidae with only 1 species, thus contributing 87%, and 13% respectively to the copepod fauna of the studied wetland under observation. The percentage composition of each copepod species in the studied wetland was also noted. Cladoceran population followed a definite rhythm of seasonal sucession showing maximum density in summer(217ind/L) and minimum in the monsoon(46ind/L).Similar trend of population density was also observed in copepod zooplankton where it exhibited its maximum density(126ind/L) in summer and minimum in monsoon(23 ind/L). Notable physico-chemical parameters of the studied wetland were also observed. The Pearson correlation(r) was made for the statistical interpretation of the physico-chemical parameters of water and crustacean zooplankton density in the studied wetland which presumed that not only a single factor but multiple factors govern over the seasonal abundance of cladoceran and copepod fauna in the studied wetland.

286-292

Authors: Tayya Raga Sudha

Bacteria protect themselves from commonly used antibiotics by acquiring resistance through horizontal gene transfer with the resistant bacteria present in the environment. This defensive mechanism of bacteria and excessive use of antibiotics resulted in the emergence of multidrug resistance in many disease-causing bacteria. Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aerogenosa are known to be the main causative organisms for skin and hospital acquired infections throughout the globe. In the current study multi drug resistant microorganisms isolated from the patient samples of King George Hospital, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India were tested against the crude methanol, chloroform, ethyl acetate and hexane extracts of Croton bonplandianum. These extracts were found to be significantly effective against the tested multi-drug resistant organisms.

301-308

Authors: Chanda Kumari and Jha AK

The floristic composition and live shoot biomass estimation of a grassland community developed in abandoned cropland after about nine years at Jai Parkash University Chapra (25036͗͗ - 26015͗ N lat. and 84024͗ - 85015͗ E long.) were studied. The floristtic compositoin of the grassland community was composed of 14 species. Dicanthium annulatum and Cynodon dactylon were the dominant species. The IVI values were 43.66 and 70.99 for Cynodon dactylon and Dicanthium annulatum, respectively. The maximum spore population was observed in the species , Clerodendrum infortunatum Linn. ( 155/ 100 gm of soil) and minimum in Citrus lemon (L.) ( 10/ 100 gm of soil). maximum relative abundance (RA) was recorded in Glomus intraradices (33.3 %) and minimum RA was recorded in Acaulospora delicata, Acaulospora morrowiae etc (0.16%).

316-320

Authors: Madhuri R Basutkar and Channappa T Shivannavar

Colors are the part of life, as the nature is itself color full gives pleasant to eyes and feel good, fresh, polite and respectful. But in present days it becomes reverse due to excessive use of synthetic colors leading to the environment pollution especially the hydrosphere. These pollutants are released into air, water and soil and have detrimental effects on the health of humans, plants, animals and microbes. In this direction isolate Lysinibacillus boronitolerans CMGS-2 (bp-1404) NCBI accession number-KT602857 and MTCC number-12531 was showed a maximum decolorisation of Reactive orange-16, under optimized parameters, the final decolorisation confirmed by UV-VIS Spectrometer and reveals isolate is helpful in the treatment of synthetic dyes.

325-328

Authors: Bandgar SG and Patil CR

An attempt has been made to study leaf litter fungi of Gangoba sacred grove from Kolhapur district. A new species of Beltrania is described as B. hasaneana Bandgar and Patil sp. nov. collected on Mangifera indica L. (Anacardiaceae) collected from this sacred grove. The detail morpho-taxonomical description, photographs and illustrations are provided here.

333-336

Authors: Pradeep Kumar Maharana

Indole acetic acid (IAA) production is a major property of rhizosphere bacteria that stimulate and facilitate plant growth. The present work deals with isolation, characterization and identification of indole acetic acid producing bacteria from the rhizospheric soil of marigold plant. The isolated bacterial strains are Azotobacter, Pseudomonas and even Spirillum (Gram negative bacteria); which show positive test in IAA, catalase, oxidase, urease and starch hydrolysis testing respectively. The bacteria strain has capacity to produce 3.8mM concentration of IAA from L-tryptophan. Again, IAA treated marigold seeds showed more root and shoot growth in comparison to control. So, these bacteria can be good source of IAA and can be used as alternatives to fertilizers.

343-350

Authors: Sunanda CH and Ranganayakulu GS

The effects of salt stress on seedling growth (shoot, root length and biomass), accumulation of osmolytes such as proline, glycine betaine, soluble sugars, free amino acids and polyamines were investigated in two commonly grown Black gram cultivars (Cv. Maruthi and Cv. LBG) during stress period. Seeds were grown at different concentrations of NaCl stress [(0.0 (control), 50, 100 and 150mM] for seven days. Salt stress resulted reduced seedling growth in all cultivars. Nevertheless, the rate of decrease in seedling growth (shoot, root growth and biomass) was significantly more in cv. LBG than cultivar Maruthi. The lowest effect of salinity on seedling growth was found in cv. Maruthi. Salt stress results showed genotypic differences in an accumulation of osmolytes during stress period. The level of osmolytes accumulation was significantly increased with increasing stress severity and duration in all studied cultivars. However, the magnitude increase of osmolytes accumulation was found to be very higher in cv. Maruthi and low in cv. LBG. The osmolyte accumulation in relation to the salt tolerance of these cultivars has been discussed.

356-358

Authors: Chavan NG and Dakore HG

The Bajra is one of the popular fodder crops in Marathawada region (Nanded area). The Bajra variety Local has been selected for this study. The experiments were conducted at Bolsa kd. Tq. Umri. DIST. Nanded during the year 2003 and 2004. The present study was undertaken to see the effect of organic fertilizers (prepared from Urd bean, Moong bean, Soya bean, Cajanus cajan (tur) plant wastes and FYM on the yield of Green Fodder, Dry Matter, Protein Content and its Nutritive value. The application of above organic fertilizers seems to be effective for the production of Local variety of Bajra and its Nutritive Value in this region.

362-364

Authors: Shillewar KS and Totawar DV

The seasonal variation in protein content of fresh water fish Cirrhinus reba from Godavari River at Nanded region, Maharashtra state were observed form January 2018 to December 2018 .the obtained results showed that protein content was high in the month of July (16.9+ 1.20), the lowest was high in the month of January 16.16 and December 15.63,then there was a slight increase in the protein content in the month of February, March, April, May and June which ranges 16.17, 16.70, 18.42, 18.62, 19.30 tissue respectively. Variation of protein content during different seasons of the year helps. Nutritionists & researchers who are striving to improve the nutritive value, processing & marketing of endangered fish species & in fishing industry.

368-374

Authors: Tharshanodayan NJQ*1 and Rohini P2

Herbal medicine is based on the establishment that plants contain natural substances that can promote health and alleviate illness. Nutraceuticals are naturally derived bioactive compounds that are found in foods, dietary supplements and herbal products, and have health promoting, disease preventing and medicinal properties. Cissus quadrangularis (L) Wall. Ex. Wight a perennial climber, Adamant creeper in English, Pirandai in Tamil. Its pharmacological activities such as analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, anti-hemorrhoidal, antioxidant, anti-osteoporosis and bone healing activity. Recognized as a rich source of carotenoids, triterpenoids and ascorbic acid and Proved to have potential for medical effects. Traditional remedies have nutraceutical and medicinal properties, as people has come to know about this, they are in the practice of using this. Aim was to explore the medicinal properties and nutraceutical importance of C. quadrangularis. Reputed literatures books and journals were said that the C. quadrangularis considered as a versatile medicinal plant in traditional medical system for its valuable medicinal uses and nutraceutical properties. It is a very rich source of nutrition and chemical compounds, which are necessary for proper functioning of human body.

11-20

Authors: Fantaye Belay* and Kasa Meles

Sorghum [Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench] is an important food crop in Ethiopia, and is ranked second for “injera” quality next to tef. However, the productivity of sorghum is limited by several biotic and abiotic constraints amongst striga hermonthica (Del.) Benth is the greatest specialized parasitic weed causing serious injury by depriving water, minerals and photosynthesis from the host. Striga hermonthica is becoming the major epidemic in most of sorghum growing areas in the country including Abergelle. Thus, a field experiment was conducted in 2013/14 cropping season to assess the interaction effect of variety by nitrogen fertilizer rates on striga control, yield and yield related attributes as well as to determine optimum nitrogen fertilizer rate to enhance the productivity of sorghum under natural striga infestation areas of Abergelle district, Northern Ethiopia. The treatment combination comprised of two striga resistant and early maturing sorghum varieties (Gobye and Abshir) and three nitrogen fertilizer levels (0, 50 and 100 kg N ha- 1) in 2x3 factorial arrangement in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The analysis of variance result showed highly significant (P≤0.01) differences due to nitrogen, variety and variety by nitrogen interaction for number of striga count per plot. The lowest number of striga count per plot was obtained from the combination of Gobye+100 kg N ha-1, whereas, the highest number of striga count per plot was recorded from Abshir+0 kg N ha-1. Thus, Gobye exhibited resistance to striga hermonthica by supporting the lowest number of striga plants germination with increasing fertilizer levels from zero to 100 kg N ha-1. Besides, the analyzed result indicated that grain yield of sorghum was significantly influenced (P≤0.01) by variety x nitrogen interaction effect. The highest grain yield of sorghum (1743 kg ha-1) was obtained from the combination of Gobye+100 kg N ha-1 while the lowest grain yield (1086 kg ha-1) was recorded from Abshir+0 kg N ha-1. However, days to physiological maturity and growth traits like plant height and panicle length were not significantly affected by variety x nitrogen interaction effect. Moreover, the partial budget analysis revealed that the highest net benefit was recorded from the combination of Gobye+100 kg N ha-1. Therefore, farmers in the study area could control striga and enhance sorghum productivity through combination use of the early matured and striga resistant variety Gobye+100 kg N ha-1 under natural striga infestation.

51-60

Authors: Ajay Kumar Sahu, Barsha Rani Kar, Santosh Sahu, Pragnya Paramita Acharya and Priyadarsini SS Harichandan

Endophytic bacteria defined as those bacteria that can be isolated from within the plant and that do not harm the plant visibly. These bacteria are thought to be virulent plant pathogens but have recently been discovered to have many beneficial effects on host plants, such as plant growth promotion, increased resistance against plant pathogen, parasites, etc. Besides gaining entry into the plants through natural openings or wounds, endophytic bacteria appear to actively penetrate plant tissues using hydrolytic enzymes like cellulose and pectins. Since these enzymes are also produced by pathogens, more information on their mechanism is needed to distinguish endophytic bacteria from plant pathogen. In general, an endophytic bacterium occurs in less number than pathogens, and at least some of them do not induce a hypersensitive response in the plant, indicating that they are not identified with the plant as pathogen. Six months old healthy plant of Psidium guajiava roots and stems were collected from the cultivated plant near Avulahalli, Bangalore, Karnataka. These plant samples were collected plant in sterile clean plastic bags brought to laboratory and used for further experimental purpose. These bacterial colonies were isolated from roots and one is isolated from the stem. The four bacterial colonies isolate were found to be may same species and they were shown common morphological and biochemical tests. An antibiotic sensitivity (or susceptibility) test is done to help choose antibiotic that will be most effective against the specific types of endophytic bacteria, root colony one and stem colony shown similar minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC).

71-76

Authors: Saranya M, Umapathy G and Murugesh KA

Eco-friendly management of dermestid beetles was tried with seven different plant products and among these, Notchi ( Vitex nigundo) has recorded a maximum grub mortality was observed in Notchi (64.67%) at 72 h in 12.5% concentration followed by Pungam (52.67%), Vasambu (41.48%), Neem (35.67%), Tulasi (42.67%), Turmeric (36.22%) and Aswagandha (41.42%) and maximum adult mortality observed in Notchi treatment (62.32%) followed by Neem (41.67%), Pungam (49.37%), Vasambu (40.54%), Tulasi (38.14%), Tumeric (36.22%) and Aswagandha (38.54%). Among the plant extracts, Notchi showed higher adult and grub mortality in CSR2 races at 12.5% concentration whereas Aswagandha showed the minimum mortality.

83-91

Authors: Sujit Sundaram, James NJ and Abdul Saleem

Knowledge on the nesting of olive ridley turtle, Lepidochelys olivacea along the west coast of India is scanty. Along Kerala coast not many studies have been carried out on the nesting and hatching behavior. Hence an attempt was made to study and observe its nesting habits from Chavakkad, Kerala, India. Olive ridley turtles are categorized as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List, hence the study gains more importance. In pursuance of this study, every year during the nesting season in this area, i.e. from November to March, periodically walking trips in the night hours were made along the coast from 1988-99 onwards. Olive ridleys usually nest in this belt such as Panchavadi, Edakkazhiyur and Akalad beaches in Chavakkad. To prevent predation from animals and humans, the eggs of the turtles were transplanted by the volunteers of Green Habitat, an NGO committed to the conservation of turtles, to a permanent hatchery. The total number of nests at Chavakkad beach ranged from one (1998-09) to ten (2017-18) during the breeding season over the years. The clutch size varied from 47 to 135 eggs during the observation period. After about 45-50 days the eggs hatched. Local people, fishermen, students etc. were invited on the release date and the hatchlings were released in to the sea. The number of eggs hatched during the study period was between 41 in 1998-09 to 490 in 2017-18. The Green Habitat has successfully protected 44 nests and ensured the safe release of 2,306 hatchlings into the sea till date.

99-101

Authors: Azeb Hailu and Teka Solomon

Wheat productivity particularly in Tigray as compared to the major wheat growing areas of Ethiopia is less. This is due to many of the previously released wheat materials were tested and released in potential areas with high rainfall that does not fit to the real condition of the region and infested by new emerging diseases. Therefore, this activity was implemented to evaluate and select bread wheat genotypes which are with better agronomic performance and resistant to diseases. The trial was conducted at Enderta (Illala on station) districts in 2016 main cropping season. From the overall analysis it is observed that there is a sig. difference among the genotypes tested for all traits except for biomass and seeds per spike. One candidate genotype ETBW 8064 was selected for future regional variety trials.

107-110

Authors: Bhosale PA

Many species of bivalve molluscs abundantly found in Indian waters can sustain regularly & very productive Fisheries in India. Particularly in Maharashtra state. Indiocious Corbicula Striatella the gonads commonly occur among the intestinal loops in the base of the foot. Several environmental factors such as temperature, lunar periodicity, depth, mechanical factor light intensity, genetic & hormonal control. Thematuration of gonads is also dependent on the richness of food supply which dependson climate. Generally, the reproductive cycle of bivalve mollouscan population includes activation, growth and gametogenesis. The gonad tissue was removed and processed for preparation of paraffin blocks. Dehydration of gonad was done through serial grades of ethyl alcohol while xylene was replaced by toluene during the process. The tissues were embedded in paraffin was at 580C. The sections of gonad were cut out 6 – 7 µm thickness. The histological sections of the gonad throughout the study revealed that gonad consists of numerous follicles innervated by the connective tissue and muscles. The amount of connective tissue present was found to depend upon the state of maturity of the gonads.

115-119

Authors: D. Sangeetha

The bryophytes possess some bioactive compounds and therefore are medicinally very useful plants. They contain pools of secondary metabolites, which are unique. The antimicrobial activity was assessed using agar well diffusion method against the two bacterial strains from the bryophytes viz Anthoceros erectus, Asterella angusta, Cyathodium tuberosum, Plagiochasma articulata and Targionia hyphophylla the studies of phytochemical constituents revealed presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, coumarins, phenols, tannins, steroids, and sugars. The antimicrobial activity is due to the presence of secondary metabolites. It was highest in Targionia hyphophylla and least in Cyathodium tuberosum. In this Research we study antibacterial activity and phytochemical screening of the bryophytes. The above observations suggest that due to significant antibacterial activity of the bryophytes they have good potential in drug development.

123-132

Authors: NJQ Tharshanodayan and P Rohini2

In Siddha system the growth & development and diseases of the children are explained in consonance with different stages. The extensive use of herbs on pediatric management in rural is socio-cultural barriers, the fact that traditional medicines have a wide acceptance. Aim is to identify the herbs that were used in traditional pediatric management and to evaluate effectiveness of specific herbs to combat common childhood diseases. In this review, some main Siddha text books and data were collected from older people to extract important information about traditional pediatric management. A total of 28 herbs were mostly be used in the disease management among children. Most of the plant used internally (57%) and while (32%) were used externally. Leaves (32%) were the most commonly used plant part forms in pediatric disease management, the least used plant life forms are Flower, Fruit peel, and whole plant (4%). According to taste Pungent (40%) were the most used plant action. Clitoria ternata. Linn, Zingiber officinalae Rosc, Piper betel, and Piper nigrum Linn, are used to treat more than one disease. Most of the plant (50%) were reported to be used for treating gastro intestinal disorders. Based on text book it has been proved that herbs used in this treatment possess significantly cure the disease in children. In spite of not knowing the effects of these herbs during ancient period, traditional practitioners used them in the preparation of home remedies. So, there is a need to enhance the usages of herbs.

140-142

Authors: Annapoorani S

Anisomeles malabarica is a medicinal plant has been used as a folkloric medicine Anisomeles malabarica belongs to family Lamiaceae is found throughout tropical and subtropical regions of India and it acts as an antimicrobial drug it having some acidic properties like anisomelic acid, anisomelolide, 2-acetoxymalabaric acid, betulinic acid, gerainic acid etc., treatment of various kind of diseases like amentia, anorexia, cancer, allergy, inflammatory disease, methanolic extract of Anisomeles malaborica showed inhibitory activity for gram positive and negative bacteria, viruses

9-16

Authors: Jiwatode Manisha M, Kariya Kiran P and Berad Baliram N

A novel chelating resin synthesized from phthalic acid, 1,5-naphthalene diamine with formaldehyde by condensation in glacial acetic acid. The structure of chelating resin was clearly elucidated by use of variety of spectral techniques, for example FTIR, 1HNMR and UV-Visible spectroscopy. The average molecular weight of terpolymer resin was determined by non-aqueous conductometric method. The empirical formula and empirical formula weight of the resin were determined by elemental analysis. Scanning electron microscopy was used to established surface features of the chelating resin. The ion exchange behavior of heavy metals, viz. Pb+2, Co+2, Cd+2 and Hg+2 was evaluated by batch equilibrium method. The study was extended to three variations evaluation of metal ion uptake in the presence of different electrolytes at different concentrations; evaluation of metal ion uptake at different pH; and evaluation of metal ion uptake at different times.

23-28

Authors: Mahendra Pratap Singh

Biivalent transition metal Mn(II), CO(II), Ni(II) and Cu(II) complexes of 3,4-{[-benze 1-sulphacetamide] imino] methyl} furan complexes derived from heterocyclic furfural and aniline sulphacetamide, have been synthesized and characterized by elemental, magnetic moment and electrochemical such as electronic spectra, IR Spectra and ESR Spectral studies. The ligand and metal complexes were screened for biological activity against Gram (+) and Gram (-) bacteria by the agar well diffusion method.

35-38

Authors: Jogi Pravin S, Deshmukh Umesh B and Shaikh Shadma

Present research work was subjected to deals with phytochemical study of extracts of newly identified plant Syzygium caryophyllifolia from Chandrapur forest region and also tested for antimicrobial activity against gram positive, gram negative and fungi. Extracts of leaves of plant was prepared in ethanol and ethyl acetate and tested for various biologically active constituents like alkaloid, terpenoid, flavonoid, tannine, saponnin, glycosides, steroids etc. The study revealed the presence of some biologically active component in the plant extract and also suggested that the leaves of Syzygium caryophyllifolia have promising biological activity against microorganism.

44-48

Authors: Satpute GD, Rewatkar SB, Gupta RG

The present investigation was undertaken the study of soil fertility status under rice cropping in different villages of Gadchiroli Tehsil of Gadchiroli District (M.S). Ten villages are taken under the study. These villages are Gadchiroli, Gogaon, Amirza, Ambeshiwani, Dongarrgaon (Tukum), Lanzeda, Navegaon, Porla, Potegaon, Yewali. The soil samples were taken from 0-15 cm with the auger before and after the rice cultivation during the year 2014-15 and 2015-16. The pH values of soils in all the villages slightly acidic in nature varied from 5.99 to 6.11. The mean values of EC were found a range varying from 0.05 to 0.13ds/m. with the safe limit. Organic carbon was found in low range. The fertility status of soil could be evaluated using nutrient index method and fertility indicator. Evaluated nutrient index of soil using organic carbon, the soil samples showed low level.

55-57

Authors: Bedare GR and Dhote AB

Presence of electron donor and electron acceptor group changes the relative strength of intermolecular interaction present in the liquids. Phytochemicals are naturally occurring in the medicinal plants, leaves, vegetables and roots that have defense mechanism and protect from various diseases. Extraction of brayophallum leaves in water was carried out using soxhelt extractor and its ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity were measured at different temperatures. The data obtained from ultrasonic propagation parameters such as ultrasonic velocity, adiabatic compressibility, acoustic impedance, free length and their variation with temperature is useful in understanding the nature of molecular interaction in terms of physical parameters.

63-67

Authors: Hiware NN, Raut RD, Choudhary MD and Wasim Khan

The shorter reaction times offered by microwave assisted deals with the synthesis of p-methyl isonitrosophenyl acetate using p-cresol , acetic anhydride and n-amyl nitrite. The Fe(II), and Fe(III) complexes of Schiff base derived from p-methyl isonitrosophenyl acetate have been synthesized. The complexes of the type ML2 have been synthesized and characterized on the basis of elemental analysis, conductivity, magnetic measurement, IR and electronic spectral studies. The conductivity data of the complexes suggests their non electrolytic nature. The biological activity of Schiff base and their metal complexes are studied against gram positive and gram negative bacteria by disc diffusion technique which shows that complex exhibit promising antibacterial activity than that of Schiff base against tested bacteria.

73-74

Authors: Rewatkar Suresh B, Kalyankar Sarla N, Dhankar Raksha P and Kadu Ashwini M

The present work is related with the variation in viscosity with the concentration of the gum samples. The Gum Karaya is collected from Gadchiroli District of Maharashtra State during Summer-2017. The study of viscosity is carried out at 300C. The following results of relative viscosity are obtained. The calculated relative viscosities are 12.26, 13.18, 14.15, 15.29 and 16.58 for the concentration of the gum samples 0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, 0.8% and 1.0% respectively.

86-88

Authors: Thakare Mahendra G

Water is essential for living things, including human being. It plays an important role to balance ecosystem by circulation from atmosphere to land and vice versa. Pure, safe and potable water makes its suitability for various uses. Water falls on land surface and drain into water bodies, including river carries heavy sediments which can be categories as physical, chemical and biological. The raw water of the river and its treatment in municipal water treatment plant is the way where quality can be assessed for potability. An attempt has been made to investigate the water quality of the river before and after treatment. Physical and chemical analysis of water shows reduction in water quality parameters viz., conductivity, acidity, total hardness and, sulphate. The result also shows the presence of residual chlorine in household tap water sample

95-100

Authors: Bodhe YG, Wadhai VS, Hajare JW and Atla DG

Present study was carried out to examine for the growth and survival of Channa marulias cultivated in glass aquaria. An experiment was conducted in four glass aquaria (size 90 × 30 cm) for a period of 21 days in January 2015. Six fishes of same size (age group) of Channa marulias, with mean initial length and weight of 6.5 ± 0.07cm and 5.8 ±0.04 g respectively were assigned to each aquaria. The aim of this work is to determine the concentration of bacterial pathogens to be inoculated in Channa marulias, so as to induce bacterial infection but not death during a period of at least two days and, therefore, enable the development of treatment protocols. The clinical exam was done 24 h after inoculation, and the clinical signs suggested bacterial infection in all fishes. In the lowest concentration, fishes demonstrated few clinical signs of disease, and in the highest concentration (4.5 x 106 CFU/ml), all fishes died within 24 - 48 hrs of bacterial induction with acute infection. In the intermediate concentration, all fishes presented clinical signs and kept living at the beginning of the time of treatment. Therefore, 2.4 × 106 CFU/ml concentrations were defined as viable for the study of experimental infection in different bacterial pathogens.

107-109

Authors: Thool Vaishali U and Khobragade Kavita D

Staphylococcus aureus is a nuisance pathogen and STX is the central eponymous feature of Staphylococcus aureus. To counteract with this global problem a more natural approach is required as antibiotic resistance is developing with the passage of time. The aim of this study was to study the antibacterial effect of Thyme EOs (EO) against STX producing Staphylococcus aureus isolates from various clinical samples. Thyme EO was found to be effective against all the S.aureus isolates (n=25). Antistaphylococcal activity of thyme oil showed the maximum inhibition zone of 22 mm. More such EOs should be explored for counteracting the increase in growing antibiotic resistance by STX producing staphylococcus isolates.

113-122

Authors: Awaley Mundeep G

Pure line seeds of local variety of Brassica compestris L. were used in the present study. The certified, healthy and dry seeds (10% moisture content) of these variety were procured from Krishi Viggyan Kendra, Nagpur. This variety well adapted to the agro climatic conditions. The seed of mustard were treated w ith different doses/treatment of physical mutagens. The physical mutagens used were gamma rays. Uniform healthy dry seeds (10% moisture content) of the mustard were exposed to different doses of gamma rays (10GY, 20GY, 30GY, 40GY, 50GY, 60GY, 70GY, 80GY, 90GY and 100GY) with a dose rate of 20Kr/20min. from 60 cobalt source at the Deparment of chemistry, Rashtrasant Tukadoji Maharaj Nagpur University, Nagpur. The mutagenic effect studied on M1 parameters included seed germination, Seedling height, plant survival, and various Quantitative traits. Seed germination, seedling growth, plant survival Increased with an increase in mutagenic treatment. Gamma rays proved to be most effective in causing maximum biological damage. Studies on various quantitative parameters showed the inhibitory effect of Lower treatments and stimulatory effect of Higher or intermediate treatments in M1 generation. The mean values for various quantitative traits Increased at higher treatments, but Inhibitory effects were noticed at some lower treatments. A significant amount of variability was induced in the treated populations as compared to Control. 70 Gy, 90Gy and 100 Gy treatments of gamma irradiation was found to be most effective.

135-142

Authors: Shende AN, Mohture VM and Korpenwar AN

Nagbhid is surrounded by abundance of nature and forest. Local people of the area depend on the forest products for earning money as well as aware of the various medicinal properties of the plant. In present study survey of ethnomedicinal plants was carried out during January 2014 to December 2015 from Nagbhid Tahsil. Ninety botanically important medicinal plants belonging to fourty nine families were identified with relevant information and are documented alphabetically with their botanical names followed by local name, family, parts used and modes of preparation of medicine. The local healers in this area use the medicinal plants in cure of various diseases. Documenting the indigenous knowledge is important for the conservation and utilization of biological resources of this area.

148-152

Authors: Patil SP and Kapgate DK

The present paper deals with the report of a new trilocular, triserial, capsular, monocot fruit from the Deccan Intertrappean Beds of Paladaun (Lat. 220 3’ 25.78’’N; Long. 780 56’ 17.53’’ E), Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh, India. The specimen is tricolular, elongated multiseeded, capsular, dehiscent fruit. The fruit measures about 8 mm in length and 3 mm in cross section tapering at both ends. The anatomy of fruit consists of outer pericarp, Pericarp is thick and differ into epicarp, mesocarp and endocarp. Each locule contains 12 seeds in two rows of 6 seeds each. Central axis is thick. Locules are separated by thin septa. Seeds are small and total 36 in all. Embryo is monocot type. Placentation is axile. Vasculature is seen along the central axis. Dehiscence is loculisidal type. The fossil fruit is named as Liliaceocarpon paladaunensis gen.et sp.nov.

157-160

Authors: Rajurkar AV, Tidke JA and Matte RS

Pollen morphology of seven genera viz., Kigellia pinnata, Milligtonia hortensis, Spathodea campanulata, Tabebuia argentea, Tabebuia rosea, Tecoma stans, Tecoma smithii belonging family Bignoniaceae have been examined by Light and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). The pollen grains are medium sized, size ranges from 26.4- 44.95 µm, isopolar, radially symmetrical, tricolporate, oblate-sub-oblate, Sub-oblate to oblate spheroidal, prolate-spheroidal, the sexine ornamentation ranges from reticulate to microreticulate. The present reports give an account of pollen morphological variations in seven genera of Bignoniaceae growing in S. G. B. Amravati University campus which can be used as an identification character for the species.

165-168

Authors: Gond GS, Khirade PD, Dudhe SS and Sharma MA

Dendrophthoe falcata (Linn F.) Etting. commonly known as ‘Vanda’ belongs to family Loranthaceae. This is an evergreen parasitic plant grown on different host plant. This plant species is known to have medicinally important bioactive compounds. Phytochemical analysis is worthy step in detection of phytochemicals. It may add valuable informative data lead to novel drug discovery. Present investigation was carried out to investigate and examine phytochemical constituents and antimicrobial activity of Dendrophthoe falcata (Linn. f.) Etting. In this study extracts of leaves was utilized for phytochemical and antimicrobial screening using standard methods. The screening resulted in the detection of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, terpanoids, reducing sugars, anthraquinone and alkaloids. Leaves methanolic extract have been found to have in vitro antimicrobial properties at different concentrations.

173-176

Authors: Meshram SM and Mohture VM

A well preserved dicotyledonous fossil seed was collected from Singhpur M.P. The seed is polygonal in shape, measuring about 5 mm in length and 2.5 mm in breadth, showing stalk like structure at the top with a slit which might be representing the micropyle. The seed coat is bitegmic having outer integument and inner integument. The embryo is very small and occupies the minimum space of the seed. The seed though shows some resemblances of the present day families like Apocynaceae, Alangiaceae, Bignoniaceae, Boraginaceae, Companulaceae, Compositeae, Loganiaceae, Martyniaceae, Pedaliaceae, Pittosporaceae, Sapotaceae, Solanaceae, Verbenaceae, and Convolvulaceae Polygalaceae, Simaroubaceae, Celastraceae, Rhamnaceae. It has close affinities with the members of the family Polygalaceae. It could not conclusively be traced to any particular genus but it broadly placed under Polygalaceae.

181-185

Authors: Ghugal SI

The seeds of Brassica carinata were stored and isolated twenty two seed storage fungi in seed samples by agar plate method and blotter method throughout the year on a monthly basis. Major predominant fungi were Alternaria alternata, Aspergillus flavus, A. candidus, A. fumigatus, A. niger, Curvularia lunata, Fusarium moniliforme, Fusarium oxysprorum, Penicillium chrysogenum and P. Oxalicum. Seed sample evaluated for the crude protein, oil, starch and sugars on monthly basis of one year storage and shows significant decreased subsequently with an increase in storage period. It was observed that the percentage change over control in protein, oil and starch was -31.79 %, -24.09 % and -52.74 % respectively at the end of year. Total sugar, reducing and non-reducing sugars were found to be decreased till 8th months of a year of the storage period but subsequently increased at the end of storage period.

189-191

Authors: Dudhe SS and Khirade PD

The weed Hyptis suaveolens L. belonging to family Lamiaceae. It is growing in Maharashtra especially in vidarbha region and found growing luxuriantly on boundary of crop fields, on sides of railway tracks and road sides. Plants already grown in fields were sprayed with aqueous concentration of glyphosate herbicide at various concentration like 100-3000 ppm. 3000 ppm considered to be lethal dose for plant. Anatomical changes like desiccation of epidermal cells, lacunae were found in cortical cells of stem, leaf showed mesophyll cells of leaf lamina was desiccated and destruction of palisade and spongy cells, and petiole showed remarkable changes at lower to higher concentration like lacuna formed at phloem region, distortion and disorganization of cortical cells while root showed epidermis and cortical cells distorted due to cambial activity, as compare the control.

195-197

Authors: Dudhe NS, Srinivasu T and Dudhe SS

The following plant records from the Chandrapur District of Maharashtra State during the field survey. The author collected some uncommon taxa from the different localities during the preparation of digital database of dicot plants of Chandrapur District, which were not recorded so far in the early floristic documentation. Four species belongs to four different families, were collected, identified and recorded as new additions to the existing floristic record of Chandrapur District. The species are Nopalea cochenillifera Salm. Dyck. (Cactaceae), Glochidion ellipticum Wight. (Euphorbiaceae), Ficus palmata Forsk. (Moraceae) and Hygrophila erecta Hochr. (Acanthaceae). A taxonomic description along with Electronic Herbarium were prepared for each taxon.

201-203

Authors: Shende AN and Korpenwar AN

Airborne mites are the main material found in intramural dust. Dust is fine dry powder and it consists of various particles. Dust mites found in poultry dust are allergens causing allergy in sensitive individuals. Some of them have also been found to cause diseases in poultry birds. The mites were picked up from intramural dust of poultry farm. Air sampling was done by using Tilak Air Sampler. The dust from poultry form was collected and scanned under binocular microscope during study period June 2016 to May 2017.The mite Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus were in more number followed by Dermanyssus farinae which is actually associate with poultry birds i.e. chicken mites. The observation revealed mites found exhibiting seasonal fluctuations. Further investigation would include exploring more biodiversity of mites in intramural environment. Allergen load of mites in dust samples and clinical investigation.

207-209

Authors: Ahuja Sangeeta and Pandhure Narayan

Water pollution is serious problem now days. Among various remedies to control water pollution naturally, pollution tolerant plant species plays their vital role in controlling water pollution. The present paper deals with the identification of pollution conrolling aquatic plants growing in the water environment of Salim Ali Lake, Aurangabad. Knowledge of the qualitative and quantitative composition of water is the first step to reveal the nature of the particular environmental problem. One of the most important environmental areas is the quality of life giving water. During the investigations it was observed that 42 aquatic plants species, out of which 22 species belonged to Dicotyledons and 12 plant species of monocotyledons representing 24 families. Dicot dominates over monocot in the ration of 5:3. These plants can be utilized for removal of the heavy metal pollutants from the polluted water bodies without disturbing the lives of other flora and fauna. It may be concluded that these aquatic plants, which employ solar energy, can be utilized heavy metals from waste water for the scavenging for water purification.

212-214

Authors: Rikkula Roja Prakash

People lives in Telangana, Andrapradesh, and some areas of Maharashtra and Karnataka celebrate their new year on Ugadhi. Ugadhi Celebrate on chaitrashudhaekadashi, in this special day they make ugadhipachidi as a prashadam for their deity, ugadhipachadi has to be prepared, almanac will kept before they deity in the prayer room. After general puja people have to take ugadhipachadi as prasadam with empty stomach and listen panchangasravanam. The science behand this traditional food is to improve immunity and to prepare their psychology for future problems. This food is made from six different items that is mango, neem flower, tamarind, jaggery, salt, red chili powder which represent our life with many experience like surprises, sadness, disgust, happiness, fear and anger that has to be accepted through that year. All items in this food have medicinal value which helps sustain during seasonal changes.

226-234

Authors: Deshmukh GD and Dhamani AA

The present study was undertaken to explore species diversity of birds, seasonal abundance of birds and their migratory pattern in and arrond the study area. The study site (20º33’N to 20º35’N and longitude 79 º39’2E to 79 º39’4E) spreads over an area of 20 Km2 located near Nagbhid, taluka level town in Eastern part of Vidarbha of Maharashtra State. It comprises numerous ponds and lakes apart from large Ghodazari Lake. It presents unique geographical site having mountaneous dry deciduous tropical forest, dominated by teak Tectona grandis and bamboo Dendrocalamus strictus, interspersed with meadows and paddy cultivations. A toal of arround 120 species belonging to 50 families 17 orders were recorded during Jan, 2015 to Dec. 2017. The species recorded included 6 Breeding Migrant (BM), 32 Passage Migrant (PM) and 82 Residents (R). Among the orders, Passeriformes is the richest order in terms of avian species diversity, represented by 56 species while family Muscicapidae is found predominant. Wooly necked stork newly recorded during the present study is vulnerable (VU) species according to IUCN red data list. Present study will helps in designing conservation strategy as this aquatic ecosystem adversely affected by fishing and agricultural activity which leads to bio-accumulation of pesticide in the pond posing serious threat and hence require immediate attention.

240-246

Authors: Chaudhari SS, Bakare SS & Dhamani AA

The larval hindgut of dragonfly Bradinopyga geminata (Rambur), was studied with light microscopy. The hindgut of dragonfly differentiate into ileum and rectum. The ileum is narrow tubular at anterior and posteriorly it is dilated spherical bulb. Ileum is located between midgut and rectum of hindgut. Ileum occupies the 20% length of total length of the alimentary canal. In the transverse section of ileum measure 430µm- 450µm diameter approximately. The internal 6 longitudinal folds are of unequal height and project into the lumen irregularly. The epithelium of ileum is consists single layer cuboidal epithelium with finely granular cytoplasm. The inner surface of the epithelium covered with by a prominent cuticle. The rectum is usually enlarged sac like structure which posteriorly connects with anal tube, the modified structure of anterior rectum in dragonfly is branchial chamber. It occupies the one third length of the alimentary canal. Rectum of dragonfly larvae is almost 3 times bigger in diameter than that of ileum. The rectum of larval dragonflies serves various functions such as swimming by jet-propulsion, breathing, storage of lipid and glycogen, and osmoregulatory salt uptake. Rectal basal pads encloses medulary fat cells from which pass trachea, number of gills projects into a rectal lumen and cover the maximum area of rectal lumen gills are underlying by thin cuticle.

254-258

Authors: Murkute VB and Chavan AW

An algal bloom is a rapid increase or accumulation in population of algae in aquatic ecosystem and it is recognized by discoloration in water from their pigments. Harmful algal blooms are a rapid uncontrolled growth of algae in aquatic environment. Excess proliferation of phytoplankton species such as Dinoflagellates, Diatoms and Cyanobacteria are referred as harmful algal blooms. Harmful algal blooms represent natural phenomena which poses serious problems to human health, environmental sustainability and aquatic life due to the production of toxic or accumulated biomass. In the present study also, the Lendra pond is suffering from such Harmful Algal Blooms which have already creates its harmful effect on aquatic fauna and indirectly affecting the human health. The sustainability of pond is also in danger. Mass fish kill was reported from Lendra pond which is the result of Harmful Algal Blooms. It is very important to sustain the life of such water bodies to perish our environment and ultimately the human health, too.

263-266

Authors: Meshram UG, Dahare RB and Dhamani AA

Zooplanktons are cosmopolitan in nature and inhabit all freshwater habitats of the world, including polluted, industrial and municipal waste waters. Zooplankton forms an important link in the food chain, food webs, energy flow and cycling of matter. The present investigation made an attempt to study the zooplanktons in Balsamudra lake during the year 2013-2014. Quantitative study of plankton was done by Sedgwick-Rafter cell method. In the present investigation, Rotifera is dominant followed by Protozoa, Cladocera, Copepoda and Ostracoda.

271-274

Authors: Kulkarni Rajlaxmi Ranrag and Zade SB

Rotifers are the connecting link between primary producers and consumers in aquatic food web. Ramala Lake is a historical impoundment situated in the heart of Chandrapur city. In present investigation zooplankton composition of water indicate more rotarian diversity in comparison to other groups. Rotifers stood first not only quantitatively but qualitatively also. The group was represented by 21 species of 12 genera.

279-282

Authors: Tichkule GC and Bakare SS

The Fishes are rich in protein, healthy and delicious food for man. They occupy all three levels in aquatic ecosystem such as primary, secondary and tertiary consumers of food web. The present investigation was aim to observe the ichthyofaunal diversity in Purkabodi lake, near Lakhani. It is 24km towards East from district headquarter Bhandara and situated on both side of NH-6 India. The wild life sanctuary Nagzira and Koka are about 30to 40km from Lakhani. The study was carried out for a year from October 2013 to September 2014. Literally there is no report on the fish diversity in this lake. During the study, total 23 species were identified belonging to 7 order and 13 families.

286-288

Authors: Pimpalshende Atul K and Sitre Shashikant R

The present study was carried out on Satara Bhosale and Satara Tukum lake of Pombhurna tehsil in Chandrapur district(M.S.) to analyze the benthic fauna present in it. 25 different benthic macrovertebrate forms belonging to Annelida, Nematoda, Arthropoda and Mollusca were found in lakes. 17 species observed in Satara Tukum lake and 24 species observed in Satara Bhosale lake. The diversity of species of Satara Tukum Lake is less than Satara Bhosale lake indicating that Satara Bhosale lake harbors more forms and is quite rich in biodiversity as compared to Satara Tukum.

6-10

Authors: Chandirasekar R*, Uthayakumar V, Anitha E, Mekala S, Mathivanan S, Raghadevi M

Tobacco use is the world’s leading cause of death, it is estimated that around 4.9 million deaths occur annually due to tobacco, and it is expected to rise to about 10 million by 2030. The use of smokeless tobacco in most of its forms possesses a substantial oral cancer risk at least in the developing countries where they are closely linked to socio cultural conditions. The primary aim of the study was to evaluate the cytogenetic and genotoxic changes in smokeless tobacco users. About 156 smokeless tobacco users have been enrolled and categorized into two groups on the basis of duration of their habit and equal number controls have been enrolled with age and sex matched non-tobacco users. We observed alteration in the incidence of chromosomal anomaly and micronuclei frequencies among the exposed and controls subjects by using the peripheral blood cells and buccal cells. The smokeless tobacco users exhibited varied levels of damages than non-users and predominantly in group II subjects with the higher duration of habit. In conclusion, use of smokeless tobacco for a longer duration caused more damages in comparison short term use and controls and awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use is very low in rural populations.

17-24

Authors: Ragadevi M, Chitra E, Jayasurya K, Sakthivel M, Uthayakumar V, Chandirasekar R, Sreedevi PR, Ramasubramanian V, and Sivasankar V

In the present study hepatoprotective activity of fish oil against alcohol induced hepatic damage in albino rats was evaluated. Hepatic injury was induced by administering 3 mL of 40% alcohol orally. The levels of liver marker enzymes such as ALT, AST, ACP, ALP, LDH, SGPT, SGOT and GGT significantly increased (P<0.05) in alcohol induced hepatic injury group when compare to control. But, when the rats are administered with the combination of Eel fish and Cod liver oil mixed standard diet, the levels of liver marker enzymes showed a better reduction than in rats administered with standard diet (control) and Eel fish oil standard diet. The level of DNA damage was assessed by Comet assay and the Mean Tail Length and Mean Tail Movement was found to be significantly lower (P<0.05) in rats administered with alcohol plus Eel and Cod liver oil mixed standard diet in comparison with control (standard diet) and Eel fish oil mixed standard diet groups. The number of micronucleated hepatocytes was significantly reduced in rats administered with Eel and Cod liver oil mixed standard diet (0.3616±0.04633) than in standard diet (1.4426±0.30871). On the whole, our study concludes that, oral administration of Eel and Cod liver oil reversed the alcohol induced hepatic injury and thus it can be used as a hepatoprotective agent.

31-40

Authors: Chaudhary Ruchira, Sairkar Manisha and Sairkar Pramod

MTCYB gene produces a protein which is a component of respiratory chain complex III. This gene is also important in phylogenetic relationships between and among species. Presently many hereditary carcinomas are also associated with the alterations of this gene. The aim of the current study is to develop primers for amplification and sequencing of complete human mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYTB) gene and use of the FTA card for isolation and preservation of mitochondrial DNA. DNA from 6 blood samples were isolated by the phenol chloroform method as well as by the FTA card method which was further used for the PCR amplification and sequencing process. Novel human mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYTB) gene specific primers (two sets) were designed and examined for amplification and sequencing. DNA trapped on FTA cards and DNA isolated by the phenol chloroform method produced a brighter clear band of approximately 1320 bp with both designed primers. During sequencing reverse and forward primers of both primer sets were produced good quality DNA sequence and prepared consensus sequences covers complete cytochrome b (CYTB) gene. Whatman FTA Classic card was successfully used for storage and amplification of Human mitochondrial DNA as well as, two sets of Human mitochondrial cytochrome b (cyt b) gene specific novel primers namely MVM-MT-Cyb-01 and MVM-MT-Cyb-02.

49-59

Authors: Ningthoujam Sonia, Myrene R Dsouza and Alisha

Parkia speciosa Hassk. (Petai or Stink bean, Family Fabaceae) is a traditio-nally consumed medicinal plant for liver disease, oedema, kidney inflame-mation, diabetes and as an anthelmintic. The phytochemical analysis of seeds of P. speciosa in water, methanol and hydromethanolic (1:1) extracts revealed the presence of carbohydrates, amino acid, alkaloids, saponins, tannins, flavonoids, terpenoids, glycosides, xanthoproteins and phenols. In vitro antioxidant capacity by linear regression analysis was measured by assaying DPPH radical and H2O2 scavenging capacities. Their respective IC50 values were found to be 315.75 μg/ml and 166.63 μg/ml. The hydromethanolic extract gave total phenolic, total flavonoids and FRAP values of 13.54±0.0163 mg GAE/g, 5.46±0.011 mg/g QE/g and 1.9 mM FeSO4 respectively. The IC50 values for in vitro anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated by the following assays: lipoxygenase inhibition (IC50 = 493.34μg μg/ml), proteinase inhibition (IC50 = 1142.3 μg μg/ml) and RBC membrane stabilization (IC50 = 67.01 μg μg/ml) at different concentrations using aspirin as control. Studies were also carried out to assess the anti-diabetic potential by assaying the ability of the plant to inhibit pancreatic lipase and amylase activities. The % inhibition at 500 μg/ml of the plant extracts were found to be 89.5% (for lipase) and 79.2% (for amylase). Antimicrobial activity of the extracts was studied against common pathogens (S. aureus, E. coli, P. aeruginosa and K. pneumoniae). The zone of inhibition was observed using well diffusion method.

67-72

Authors: Pradeepa K and Lakshman Kumar B

Among the serious complications people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) experience, cardiovascular disease heads the list. Having RA doubles the risk of most heart problems, including heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis - the build-up of fat, cholesterol and cellular debris (plaque) on blood vessel walls. Hence the present study targeted the I/D polymorphism in angiotensin 1 converting enzyme (ACE) gene using Insertion specific PCR and methylation status of angiotensin 1 converting enzyme (ACE) gene using methylation specific PCR in 30 RA patients confirmed by Rheumatoid factor (RF) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) values. ID genotype was the predominant genotype in patients and controls. II genotype was higher in controls compared to patients. Methylation pattern analysis using MS-PCR suggested equal distribution of methylated and unmethylated regions of ACE gene in patients and controls thus suggesting lack of CVD risk. But in order to confirm, a higher sample size needs to be further probed.

77-84

Authors: Chandirasekar R, Uthayakumar V, Anitha E, Mekala S, Mathivanan R, Raghadevi M

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus is a complex genetic disease, associated with environmental and genetic factors. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) plays an important role in the development of SLE, is expressed in a wide range of tissues including lung, vascular endothelium, kidney, cardiac muscles and testis. ACE gene I/D polymorphisms, particularly the DD genotype has been associated with lupus susceptibility and with risk of renal and cardiovascular disease. This study analysed the ACE gene polymorphic variants among the recruited 48 SLE patients (SLE was confirmed by Anti nuclear antibody (ANA) and dsDNA tests) associated with the cardiovascular and renal disease and 48 controls. The present study also analyzed the biochemical parameters (total serum cholesterol HDL, LDL, VLDL, TGL) and C-reactive protein (CRP) in SLE patients and controls. Our study found that, SLE patients had higher levels of cholesterol (40%) than controls and the and CRP was found to be higher in SLE patients in comparison with controls and established normal reference range (<5mg/L). The distribution of genotype in SLE patients was DD 62.50%, ID 20.83% and II 16.66%. A significantly higher frequency of DD genotype (p<0.0004) was observed in SLE patients in comparison with controls.

91-95

Authors: Babitha Bhaskaran, Sushmitha Shankar and Nagaraj Sonu

The present investigation was carried out to enhance the production of lipase enzyme by genetic modification of the fungi Aspergillus niger by induced mutagenesis (UV irradiation and Ethidium bromide). Aspergillus niger strain was isolated from enriched soil sample and strains were further screened for the production of lipase using Rhodamine plate method. Strain improvement was achieved in presence of Ethidium bromide with concentration of 200μgcm-3 in combination with treatment under UV for 300s which was proved to be effective for enhanced lipase production. The results also indicates that chemical mutagenesis in combination with physical mutagenesis proved to be effective for stain improvement in A. niger. The selected mutant can be considered as a prospective candidate for the production of extracellular lipase for various industrial applications.

12-16

Authors: Mali Vidya C, Rangar Krishna K, Kumbhar Deepak A and Lavate Rajendra A

The study aims to find out the quality of borewell water used for drinking purpose and at household level in Jath city of Maharashtra. Underground water is the most necessary source of water. So, the present work deals with valuation of borewell water of different ten places in Jath city carried out in year 2016-2017. The Physico-Chemical Parameters such as pH, Electrical Conductivity, Dissolved Oxygen, Total Dissolved Solid, Alkalinity, Temperature, Total Hardness are studied to measure quality of water.

21-24

Authors: Desai TH and Bhilave MP

Hematological profile of fishes gives the physiological status of fish’s wellbeing. When the fish is exposed to any toxicant, it affects the blood and then consequently other vital organs are deformed. Hence in the present study hematological profile of freshwater fish Cirrhinus mrigala is studied after acute exposure to methanol. The fishes were exposed to lethal and sub lethal concentrations for 96 hrs. The results reviled that values of Packed Cell Volume (PCV), Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC) and Hemoglobin (Hb) decreased significantly (P < 0.05) in the treated group as compared to the control group. Whereas the values of Total Leucocytes Count (TLC), Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV), Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC) and Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) increased significantly (P < 0.05) in all exposed group than the control.

29-42

Authors: Lavate Rajendra A, Khot Vasundhara V, Sathe Sanjay S and Jagtap Mamata A

Studies on the flora of Raje Ramrao Mahavidyalaya campus, Jath was conducted from December, 2010 to December, 2017. A total of 318 species representing 232 genera belonging to 69 families were collected, identified and enumerated. A total of 180 genera representing 248 species identified are dicotyledons and 70 species of 52 genera are monocotyledons. Considering the rapidly changing land use in the campus for building and road construction, much attention should be paid towards the conservation of both flora and fauna, for which the present survey provide baseline data.

48-52

Authors: Gurav Kuladip and Jadhav (Rathod) Varsha

In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to appraise proximate and mineral composition of Zanthoxylum rhetsa DC. And Glycosmis pentaphylla. (Retz)DC. The fruits are used by rural people of Kolhapur district as their in food and medicine. Hence in present investigation unripened and ripened fruits are selected for determining the nutritional potential and ethnomedicinal importance. In present study higher amount of Moisture (60.0 ±1.42%), Crude protein (3.5 ±0.5%), Reducing sugar (2.7 ±0.40%), Total sugar (4.1±0.70%), Starch (5.8 ±0.37%) and Energy (273±34.74KJ/100g.) in ripened fruit of Glycosmis pentaphylla. Highest amount of Dry content (53.2 ±0.32%), Ash (4.0 ±0.10 %) and Crude fibre (6.5±0.51%) and crude fat (5.5 ±1.56%) found within unripened fruit of Zanthoxylum rhetsa. Among the various macronutrients and micronutrients estimated in the fruits Magnesium (1150±0.03mg) was present in highest quantity, followed by sulphur (920±0.14mg) and calcium (890±0.08mg) in ripened fruit of Glycosmis pentaphylla. Only zinc was (2.0.±0.04) higher reported in ripened fruits of Zanthoxylum rhetsa. Unripened fruit of Glycosmis pentaphylla. shows Maximum concentration of Magnesium (1050±0.15) followed by calcium (1010±0.026). While only sodium (820±0.10) was maximum reported in unripened fruit of Zanthoxylum rhetsa. On the basis of above investigation fruit of both the plants play a very significant role in food supplement of rural people and also beneficial for health care.

57-61

Authors: Suryawanshi Madhuri and Jadhav (Rathod) Varsha

The Semicarpus anacardium L.f. commonly known as bhallataka belonging to family Anacardiaceae. The fruit is also known as marking nut. The fruit are edible and it is reported to the astringent, anti-rheumatic, carminative and vesicant. The present paper deals with phytochemical, proximate and antioxidant analysis of mature and ripened fruits was investigated. The mature fruit shows higher content of moisture, ash, crude fiber and dry matter whereas crude fat is higher in ripen fruits. Ash is the inorganic residue remaining after the water and organic matter have been removed. Powder behavior indicated alkaloids, cysteine, xanthoprotein and starch. In preliminary phytochemical screening shows presence of alkaloids, saponins, caumarins, glycosides, tannins, and flavone. In Antioxidant analysis, carotenoids observed in mature fruits is 13±0.06 mg/100gm.whereas, total polyphenol in mature fruits is5.08±0.02 mg/100gm.Carotenoids and polyphenolshave an important antioxidant function of deactivating free radicals. They are the most important antioxidants in human diet.

67-72

Authors: Matwal SR, Desai SS, Bhopale LP and Walvekar MV*

Epidermal growth factor (EGF) is most extensive factor secreted by subman-dibular gland and it has important physiological roles like cell proliferation, regulates tissue differentiation and modulates organogenesis. This study was carried out to investigate potential effect of submandibular gland secreted epidermal growth factor (EGF) on acetaminophen induced acute liver damage. Acetaminophen (APAP) overdose causes acute liver injury or even death in both humans and experimental animals. For this study mice were divided into three groups viz- i. Control ii. Control + APAP iii. Sialoadenectomy (submandibular gland removed) +APAP group. Mice were given acetamin-ophen (300 mg/kg; orally) to induce acute liver injury. After 1, 3,6,12, 96 hr of APAP administration. histology of liver and SGOT , SGPT from blood was studied. Acetaminophen significantly increased the levels of SGOT, SGPT and also caused severe necrotic changes in liver tissue. In group III i.e. in Sialo-adenectomy+APAP there was significant increase in both the enzymes i.e. SGOT and SGPT as compared to group II i. e. Control+APAP and as time pro-gressed i.e. from 1,3,6,12,96 hr there was significant increase in both enzymes and show maximum value in 96 hr post treatment. Our result indicate that submandibular gland EGF have role in proliferation of hepatocytes.

77-82

Authors: Vibhute Shivaji M

The observation of biodiversity of snakes was carried out in Atpadi city and adjoining area from last 10 years. This work was done in the study area as a rescue operation. The record of rescued snakes was kept for last 10 years and the snakes were released in their natural habitat away from human habitat. Many species of snakes recorded here are endangered and found only in India only like Rat snake, Indian Cobra, etc. In recent years it was also observed that there is a sharp increase in number of Russels Viper. Out of big four poisonous snakes Indian Cobra, Russels Viper and Common krait were recorded in this area. In recent times more victims of Russels Viper snake bite were recorded in this area. Along with these poisonous snakes in all 13 species of poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes are recorded in this area.

86-88

Authors: Kulkarni Narendra A

The study area is the coastal Maharashtra which lies between 15°44' N to 20°08' N and 72°44' E to 73°39' E. The study area has tropical climatic conditions. Three distinct seasons are observed as Monsoon (June to Sept.), Winter (Oct. to Jan.) and Summer (Feb. to May). The maximum annual rainfall that occurs along the coast is 2500 mm. The relative humidity ranges between 60 to 80%. The temperature varies from 20° C to 35° C. Mangroves ecosystem is known for its high productivity. The mangroves function as a source of food and shelter to the variety of animals like herbivores, detritivores and carnivores. Animals play a key role in making the mangrove ecosystem highly productive. Mangroves play important role in feeding the variety of animals at their juvenile stage. Mangroves show diversified avi-faunal members. Many of the bird species are associated with the mangroves, for many reasons. Birds use the mangroves for nesting, breeding and as a source of secondary food. Some birds are fish-catcher. The most common birds observed in the mangrove ecosystem are Herons, Egrets, Lapwings, Plover, Gulls, Terns, Storks, Hawks, Kites, Eagles, Hornbills and Kingfishers. The birds may either be permanent or temporary residents on mangrove trees. Some of the resident birds are highly depend on mangroves for their survival. Some of the birds are recorded during the present field studies.

93-95

Authors: Ingole Sitaram B

Majalgaon Dam was constructed on the River Sindphana which is a tributary of River Godavari, in Beed District (Maharashtra, India) in 1987.The River Sindphana has been under constant threat of pollution by sewage and industrial wastes, disposal of dead bodies, deforestration, excessive useof fertilizers and pesticides, bathing and water development programmes. The dam has a catchment area is 3840 sq. km. It is of great Importance for the region because its water is used for human and cattle consumption, power generation, fish production and irrigation. A total of 33 species of phytoplanktons, 29 species of zooplanktons and 11 species of fishes were identified. The importance of plankton in fisheries is well established. It has been clearly demonstrated that the zooplankton constitute the only food for the fish fry and the adult fish not only eat them, but also select them as a delectable item.Thus zooplankton have a direct bearing in the fish industry. In India, several studies were conducted in reservoirs elucidating the characteristics of zooplankton.The zooplankton peak was found during summer followed by winter and rainy season.Microfauna (zooplankton) was observed about four groups as Rotifera observed about eleventh species, Copepoda observed about nine species, Cladocera observed seven species and Ostracoda observed about two species. The macro fauna or fish fauna were observed at the Majalgaon Dam reservoir. There are culture of fish with quick growing varieties of fishes including Indian Major Carps, exotic species have been popular in recent time. There is abundance of the species such as Labeo rohita, Cirrhina mrigal, Catla catla, Cyprinus carpio, Silver carp, Wallago atta, Mystacenbelus armatus, Notoptemus chital, Puntues ticto, Channa staitus, Mystus seenghala, Mystus cavaassius, Eutroplus suratensis, Belon concila, Chela, Tilapia Mossambica, Rohtee alfrediana, Gobius giuris, etc. Fish is economically a very important group of animals be side being used as food. Fish liver is an important source of oil containing Vitamins A and D, several minerals and protein.

101-104

Authors: Shinde Archana, Kuralapkar DD and Gaikwad DK

The allelopathic effect of the aqueous leaf extract of Azardichata indica and Ageratum conyzoides L. on the seed germination and growth of the seedlings of Capsicum annum L. was studied by applying five different treatments (5,10,20 and 30%) of leaf extracts of Ageratum conyzoides and Azardichata indica. The experiment was conducted in sterilized petri dishes with photoperiod of 24 hr. The effect of different concentration of aqueous extract were compared to distilled water used as control. Results exhibited that seed germination inhibition because of allelopathic effect was found in the varieties of chili treated with different concentrations of leaf extract. All four-concentration considered for treatment showed inhibitory effect on germination of seeds in capsicum. It highest degree of inhibition in radicle and plumule growth of the test plant i.e., C. annum (L.) was observed in 30% concentration of both the leaf extracts.

108-110

Authors: Deshmukh SB and Kulkarni MY

The present research paper reports the checklist of piscivorours birds of Tippehalli reservoir, Jath, dist- Sangli. Jath is an arid prone area. Tipphalli is man-made reservior which shows diverse flora and fauna. The reservior is situated in between agriculture land and sugar industry. The fishery is done in this reservior. The reservior contain algae, aquatic weeds, phytoplankton, zooplankton which is favourable for fish development. Fishes, crustacean, amphibians are attractive to the birds. The reservoir shows residential, local migratory, migratory, winter migratory, piscivorous birds the study was conducted during march 2016 to February 2017, during study period about 19 species of piscivorous birds was recorded out of that 10 spp. are resident, 3 local migratory, 3 migratory, 1 winter migratory, 2 resident migratory was recorded, the anthropogenic activity; increasing agricultural land was affected the piscivorous birds of Tippehalli reservior.

117-124

Authors: Chougule AA, Kadam GH and Raut PD

Birds are very significant biological component of ecosystem which indicates the quality of environment. They are the easiest to survey and study. The importance of the avifaunal study is indicator of the status of the environment of the study area, and therefore, were selected for comprehensive assessment. Recently, ornithologists came with the first ultimate checklist of Indian birds, putting the number of species across the country at 1,263. This avifaunal study was carried out during the period 2014-2017, in and around proposed nuclear power plant site at Jaitapur, Maharashtra. There are total 146 species of birds listed belonging to 18 orders and 55 families were recorded. From the 18 orders Passeriformes is the one of the largest order was observed with 57 bird’s species and 28 families. Out of these 146 species 49 of water birds were recorded. These bird species are inhibiting in the water bodies and wetlands. There are 24 species recorded dominant. The most dominant species are Brahminy Kite, Rock Pigeon, White Throated Kingfisher, River Tern, Laughing Dove, Black Drongo, Indian Robin, Green Bee Eater, Ashy Prinia, Red Vented Bulbul, Red whiskered bulbul, white browed wagtail, common myna, coppersmith barbet, grey heron etc. The detailed results are discussed in the paper.

129-132

Authors: Patil TC, Gejage RM and Bodare RD

Changes in triacylglycerol lipase activity during larval development of E.vittella have been attempted. The larval developmental period was found to be 17 days. The maximum triacylglycerol lipase activity was observed in 11-day old larvae of E. vittella. The triacylglycerol lipase activity revealed optimum pH 8, substrate concentration 5% and Km value was found to be 0.14273 ×10-2 mM. The specific activity of 5th day, 11th day and 17th day larvae was found to be 13.625, 22.838, and 16.435 μmol free fatty acids/mg protein/25minutes respectively. The gradual increase in triacylglycerol lipase activity noted from 5-day old larvae to 11-day old larvae and gradual decrease from 11-day old larvae to 17-day old larvae. The mean and standard deviation of larval triacylglycerol lipase was 18.893 and 2.5007 respectively. The physiological role of triacylglycerol lipase during larval development of E. vittella is discussed.

139-141

Authors: Khot SS, Kate SV, Yadav Amruta, Satpute Pooja and Ghatage Ashwini

Chromolaena odorata (Synonym- Eupatorium rugosum) is a member of Family Asteraceae and known as white snakeroot. It is locally called as jungle-modi as it grows rapidly in disturbed areas and inhibits germination of other plants in the vicinity. To understand its effects on cell division, 10, 20 and 50% aqueous extract of leaves of E. rugosum were used to treat the roots. Onion bulbs with 48 hr old roots were exposed to the extracts for 1 hrs and then fixed in Cornoy’s alcoholic acetic acid. The squash prepared in 1% aceto-carmine were analysed under 40X objective lens for mitotic index and abnormalities. Experiments showed that mitotic index was maximum in control roots, and decreased in treated roots. E. rugosum induced mitotic abnormalities namely scattering of chromosomes at anaphase, formation of bridge, laggard and rings etc. in the root tips.

144-147

Authors: Kamble Priyadarshani and Karande VC

Blue Green Algae which are also called as cyanobacteria are one of the most important nitrogen fixing photoautotrophs present on the earth since 3.5 billion years. They are known to be found in almost all photic habitats including water bodies, glaciers as well as all terrestrial ecosystems. Paddy fields represent one such habitat. Because of their autotrophic and diazotrophic nature they flourish in rice fields and known to sustain the fertility of this ecosystem. They vary in their morphology. Some of them are unicellular while some are multicellular filamentous. An attempt has been made to document unicellular cyanobacteria from rice fields of Satara district in Maharashtra State. As many as 18 species of unicellular cyanobacteria were recorded from the study area. Order Chroococcales has been reported by nine of genera and 18 species. The genera Aphanocapsa, Aphanothece and Gloeocapsa were frequently reported.

153-158

Authors: Kadam PL and Patil RN

Direct discharge from agricultural runoff and industrial effluent in to river, ponds and lakes causing serious environmental pollution. These runoff and effluent contain toxicant which exerts their effect on aquatic animals particularly fish by interfering their physiological processes. Therefore, present work was aimed to study the histochemical characterization of mucosubstances in intestine of fresh water fish, Channa gachua after acute exposure to organophosphate pesticide dichlorvos. There was decrease in the secretion of neutral mucosubstances by the epithelial cells in exposed fishes. On the other hand secretion of neutral mucosubstances by G1- Goblet cells was decreased. In G2- goblet cells secretion of sulfomucins was enhanced but the secretion of neutral mucosubstances and sulfomucins was decreased in G3- Goblet cells.In submucosa, muscularis and serosa the neutral mucosubstances was decreased as well as the glycogen was also decreased in muscularis. From these results it is concluded that the pesticide exerts their effects in organ system of fish and decreases their food values.

165-169

Authors: Sajjan MB, Yadav OV, Jadhav BV and Patil RN

Chandoli National Park disseminates along the North Sahyadri Range of Western Ghats near the Chandoli Dam in Taluka Shirala, District Sangli of Western Maharashtra, India. It is located between 17º03ʹ to 17º20ʹ N and 73º46ʹ to 73º53ʹ E, with the elevation of about 589-1044 m above the sea level. An extensive survey for amphibian diversity was carried out by visual encounter method during June 2014 to May 2017 in selected spots from Chandoli National Park. A total of 27 species of amphibians belonging to 18 genera and 9 families and 2 orders ware recorded from the study area. 18 species are endemic to the Western Ghats and 2 species are endangered. Due to high altitude, perennial streams, reservoir and evergreen forest, the environmental conditions persist here are cool and humid. These conditions render good habitat to amphibian fauna.

174-176

Authors: Pentewar MS

An attempt has been made to study the Physico-chemical condition of water of Godavari river at Nanded district, M.S. India. The time period of study was July 2016 to June 2017. Three water samples were selected from different sites in each month for study. The parameters studies were Temperature, Turbidity, pH, DO, BOD, COD, Total Dissolved Solids and Suspended Solids. Almost all the parameters were found above the tolerance limit.

181-184

Authors: Khogare Balaji T, Kulal Shivaji R, Rangar Krishna K and Kokare Balasaheb N

Neem (Azadirachta indica) belonging to Maliaceae family is very important medicinal plant which is traditionally used to treat different diseases. Each part of the neem tree has some medicinal property and is thus commercially exploitable. It has been used in different medicinal systems: Ayurveda, unani, homeopathic medicine, therefore considered as cynosure of modern medicine. It is now considered as a valuable source of unique natural products for development of medicines against various diseases and also for the development of industrial products. The objective of this paper was to evaluate medicinal applications of neem in human life.

191-194

Authors: Banasode Ramadas Shamarao

The challenge of climate change as well as the conservation of biodiversity underscores the lack of vision and ethical thinking in the policies of the human being. Climate change is largely caused by the emission of Green House Gases. It is really challenging for human being to witness and confront the upcoming rapid climate changes that will be more acute even the age of dinosaurs. The rise in the sea level, change in cropping patterns, melting of glaciers, increasing number of climate refugee etc are the main results of the climate change. Biodiversity loss has severe consequence for humankind. To insure intra as well as intergenerational equity, it is essential to conserve biodiversity for sustainable development. With the help review approach, the present research work explores some effective measures and models for the conservation of biodiversity. In order to mitigate the influence of climate change and give boost to the conservation of biodiversity, the present short review stresses out some general but useful models and measures such as application of carbon footprint, ecological footprint, carbon neutrality, the new approach of geo-engineering and the technique of creating artificial glaciers.

200-203

Authors: Jagtap VA Bhagwan HK and Vhanalakar SA

The scolex is medium in size, globular in shape; the scolex is divided in to two regions. The anterior region is small in size, oval in shape, represented by two globular flaps with fan wise arrangement of muscles which are arranged in two. The accessory suckers are small in size, rounded in shaped. The scolex is followed by a long neck. The mature segments are large in size, The testes are medium in size, oval in shape, 140 in number, The cirrus pouch is large in size, oval in shape, opens sub marginal, The cirrus is medium width, coiled contained within the cirrus The internal seminal vesicle is situated posterior to the cirrus, which is small in size, oval The vas deferens is long, thin, extends The ovary is large in size, ‘U’ shaped in appearance, The vagina is medium the ootype The receptaulm seminis is largein size, oval in shape The ootype is medium in size, round in shape, situated. The genital pores are large in size, oval in shape; The vitellaria are follicular, in corticular and sub corticular regions and extends from the anterior to the posterior margin of the same in lateral fields. The longitudinal excretory canals are thin.