Journal of Advances in Biology & Biotechnology

Effect of Organic and Biofertilization on Growth, Yield, and Chemical Constituents of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.)

Nabila F. Elashmawy — 2026-05-26

The increasing global demand for high-quality medicinal plants, coupled with the environmental and health concerns associated with chemical fertilizers, has spurred a resurgence of interest in sustainable agricultural practices. The over-reliance on synthetic NPK fertilizers has led to soil degradation, groundwater pollution, and elevated production costs. In two consecutive seasons (2023/2024 and 2024/2025), this study assessed the impact of combined organic and biofertilization on Nigella sativa L. growth, seed output, oil productivity, and chemical composition under Egyptian conditions. A randomized complete block design was used to arrange twelve fertilization treatments that included chicken manure (PM; 10 and 20) m³ fed⁻¹, Nitrobein (NT) (Azospirillum sp.), Phosphorein (Ph) (Bacillus megatherium var. phosphaticum), and active dry yeast. When compared to the control, all fertilization treatments greatly increased vegetative growth and output. The maximum plant height (76.7 cm), number of capsules (45.06 plant⁻¹), seed weight (4.78 g plant⁻¹), and seed yield (0.76 t ha⁻¹) were all produced by the combined treatment Ph + PM (20 m³ fed⁻¹), which was 73% higher than the control (0.44 t ha⁻¹). Yeast + PM (20 m³ fed⁻¹) enhanced the fixed oil content from 19.91% (control) to 27.59%, while phosphorein treatment increased the volatile oil production from 0.013 to 0.038 mL plant⁻¹.

Fertilization strategy also affected the content of fatty acids. The predominant unsaturated fatty acid, linoleic acid, varied from 66.25% to 83.09%, with yeast application showing the highest percentage. In addition to increasing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium accumulation in plant tissues, integrated treatments greatly increased chlorophyll a (1.43 mg g⁻¹ vs. 1.06 mg g⁻¹ in the control). Overall, the combination of biofertilizers and high-rate poultry manure outperformed individual treatments, increasing N. sativa oil quality and yield amount. These results demonstrate integrated nutrient management as a viable approach to raising black cumin productivity and phytochemical quality in semi-arid environments.

A Study on Incidence and Biochemical Alterations Associated with True Anoestrus and Silent Oestrus in Crossbred Cows of Assam, India

Chiranjeevi Acharya — 2026-05-26

Reproductive disorders such as true anoestrus and silent oestrus are major causes of infertility and economic loss in dairy cattle, particularly under field conditions where nutritional and managemental factors greatly influence reproductive performance. The present study was conducted to study the prevalence of reproductive disorders in crossbred cows and to determine the incidence and biochemical alterations associated with true anoestrus and silent oestrus in crossbred cows maintained under field conditions in Assam. A total of 1374 crossbred cows from private farms in the greater Guwahati area were examined through breeding history, clinico-gynaecological, and ultrasonographic evaluations. For biochemical analysis of blood serum, Serum calcium, inorganic phosphorus, zinc, total protein, and cholesterol were estimated using an automatic biochemistry analyzer following the protocols provided with commercial kits. Out of 1374 crossbred cows, 1172 (85.3%) were found normal, while 102 (7.42%) and 100 (7.28%) were identified as repeat breeders and anoestrus cows, respectively. The overall incidence of silent oestrus and true anoestrus was 4.58% (63/1374) and 2.69% (37/1374), respectively. Biochemical analyses revealed significantly (p<0.05) lower serum calcium levels and higher cholesterol and total protein concentrations in true anoestrus cows compared to normal cyclic ones, while differences in phosphorus and zinc levels were non-significant. The findings indicate that nutritional and metabolic imbalances, particularly calcium deficiency and altered lipid and protein metabolism, play crucial roles in the occurrence of anoestrus. The study underscores the importance of mineral supplementation, balanced nutrition, and proper management to enhance reproductive efficiency and productivity in crossbred dairy herds under field conditions of Assam.

Enhancing Banana Yield and Profitability through Bunch Skirting

U. G. Thakare — 2026-05-28

Banana (Musa spp.) is a vital horticultural crop, yet achieving premium market quality remains a challenge due to biotic and abiotic stresses during bunch development. This study evaluates the multi-dimensional impact of bunch skirting technology through Front Line Demonstrations (FLDs) conducted over three consecutive years (2022-2023 to 2024-25) across various villages. The primary objective was to assess the technology against traditional farmer practices (control) by measuring agronomic improvements, economic viability, and the efficacy of FLDs as an extension methodology for accelerating technology adoption. Data from 39 participating farmers (13 per year) were analyzed.

Agronomic results indicated a consistent and statistically significant improvement in fruit girth and overall yield. In 2022-23, the average yield per hectare increased by 13.16%, with similar sustained growth in subsequent years. Economically, despite an additional expenditure of Rs. 54,450/ha for skirting bags, the intervention yielded a substantially higher average Benefit-Cost (B:C) ratio compared to the control, culminating in a B:C ratio of 2.78 in 2024-25. The Incremental Cost-Benefit Ratio (ICBR) proved the investment highly lucrative. Furthermore, the extension analysis revealed that the technology significantly reduced yield variability among farmers, mitigating perceived financial risks. The sustained positive outcomes across diverse geographical micro-climates within the study area underscore skirting as a highly profitable intervention and validate the participatory FLD model for bridging the lab-to-land gap in agricultural technology.

Incidence and Prevalence of Hepatic Affections and Hepatic Space Occupying Lesions in Dogs

Indraneel Pamadi — 2026-05-28

Aims: The present study aimed to determine the incidence and prevalence of hepatic affections and hepatic space-occupying lesions in dogs in Central India.

Study Design: A prospective clinical study was conducted at the Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), Jabalpur, from June 2025 to November 2025. Dogs presented during this period, irrespective of age, sex and breed, exhibiting clinical signs suggestive of hepatic disorders such as anorexia, weight loss, vomiting, weakness, icterus, ascites, and elevated serum liver enzymes were screened and included in the study.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted at Veterinary Clinical Complex, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh for a six-month period (June–November 2025).

Methodology: The dogs were assessed through clinical examination, hematobiochemical profiling, ultrasonography and confirmatory computed tomography.

Results: Out of 4973 dogs presented during the study period, 109 dogs were confirmed with hepatic affections, showing a prevalence of 2.19%, while hepatic space-occupying lesions (SOLs) showed a prevalence of 0.30%. Chronic hepatitis was the most common hepatic disorder (44.95%), followed by acute hepatitis (30.28%), hepatic SOLs (13.76%) and hepatobiliary disorders (11.01%). The most frequent clinical signs were anorexia/inappetence (87.16%), lethargy (69.73%) and vomiting (68.81%). Hepatic affections were most commonly observed in adult dogs aged 1–8 years (60.55%), whereas hepatic SOLs were predominantly recorded in geriatric dogs aged >8 years (60%). Male dogs constituted 66.06% of hepatic affection cases, while hepatic SOLs showed no significant sex predisposition. Indian Mongrels (22.01%) and Labrador Retrievers (21.10%) were the most commonly affected breeds, with Labrador Retrievers accounting for 60% of hepatic SOL cases. Hepatic tumors constituted 93.33% of SOLs.

Conclusion: Hepatic affections are relatively common in dogs presented to veterinary clinics, with chronic hepatitis being the predominant condition. Hepatic SOLs occur more frequently in geriatric dogs and are mainly neoplastic in nature. Clinical evaluation combined with advanced imaging modalities such as ultrasonography and computed tomography plays an important role in the diagnosis and characterization of hepatic lesions in dogs.

Growth Performance of HD-K75 Pigs and the Influence of Non-Genetic Factors on Body Weight at Different Ages

Aakriti Sharma — 2026-05-28

Pig farming is an important livelihood source in Northeast India, but productivity is limited by the availability of improved and well-adapted breeds. The HD-K75 pig, developed under ICAR-AICRP, combines high growth potential with local adaptability. However, growth performance is influenced by non-genetic factors such as season, sex, and parity, making their evaluation important for effective breeding and management. The present investigation was undertaken to evaluate the growth performance of HD-K75 pigs and to assess the effects of season of birth, sex, and parity on body weight at birth, weaning (42 days), five months, and eight months of age. Performance records of 1,416 HD-K75 pigs maintained at the nucleus herd of ICAR-All India Coordinated Research Project (AICRP) on Pigs, Assam Agricultural University (AAU), Khanapara, Guwahati were utilized. Data were analysed by least-squares analysis of variance following the model of Harvey (1990), and subclass means were compared using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT). The overall least-squares means (LSM ± SE) for body weight at birth, weaning, five months, and eight months of age were 1.059 ± 0.004, 11.779 ± 0.039, 45.178 ± 0.289, and 75.371 ± 0.515 kg, respectively. Season of birth exerted no significant effect on body weight at any of the ages studied. Sex had a significant influence only on birth weight, with male piglets being significantly heavier than females, whereas parity significantly affected body weight at birth and weaning but not at later ages. These findings indicate that HD-K75 pigs perform satisfactorily under the intensive management system practised at the nucleus herd and are well adapted to the agroclimatic conditions of Assam.

Analysis of Nutritional Quality Traits in Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Landraces through Variability and Correlation Studies

Konne Deepika — 2026-05-28

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the staple crop for more than half of the world’s population and serves as a major dietary energy. However, polished rice grains are often deficient in essential Micronutrient such as iron (Fe), zinc (Zn) and protein. Therefore, identification of genotypes possessing superior nutritional quality traits is important for rice bio-fortification programmes. To evaluate the extent of variability and the relationship among nutritional traits in rice landraces. Thirteen nutritional and grain quality traits were evaluated for genetic parameters. High GCV and PCV estimates were observed Fe content in polished rice (FEP), single plant yield (SPY) and Fe content in brown rice (FEB), indicating the existence of substantial variability among the genotypes. High heritability couples with high GAM were observed for SPY, FEB, ZNB and FEP, suggesting the predominance of additive gene action and possibility of improvement through direct selection. Correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlation between Zn content and Fe content in brown rice, protein content in brown rice with protein content in polished rice. The results indicated the presence of considerable variability for nutritional traits among the rice traditional genotypes, which can be effectively, utilized in future breeding programmes aimed at developing nutrient-rice rich varieties.

Economic Viability of Organic Vegetable Cultivation through Vermicompost Integration

N. Chandi Priya — 2026-05-29

Background: Organic farming systems integrated with on-farm input generation are increasingly recognised for their potential to enhance farm profitability, resource-use efficiency, and environmental sustainability. Vermicomposting, in particular, provides a cost-effective source of organic nutrients while creating an additional income stream for farmers.

Aim: This study evaluated the economic viability of organic vegetable cultivation integrated with on-farm vermicompost production under chemical-free farming conditions in Andhra Pradesh, India.

Methodology: The experiment was conducted during the Rabi season of 2025–2026 at the College of Horticulture, Chinalataripi, on a 784 m² vegetable cultivation area supported by a 150 m² vermicomposting unit. Nineteen vegetable crops representing cucurbits, solanaceous vegetables, leafy vegetables, tuber crops, and legumes were cultivated using exclusively organic inputs. Vermicompost was produced from locally available organic residues using Eisenia foetida earthworms. Economic indicators including gross income, net profit, benefit–cost ratio (BCR), and return on investment (ROI) were calculated.

Results: The vermicomposting unit produced 1,000 kg of vermicompost within six months, generating a net profit of Rs. 9,000 and a BCR of 1:1.82. Organic vegetable cultivation incurred an external input cost of Rs. 2,830 and generated a gross income of Rs. 22,000, resulting in a net profit of Rs. 19,170. The system achieved a BCR of 1:7.77 and an ROI of 677.4%. Leafy vegetables contributed the highest share of total income (47.5%). Integration of vermicompost production with crop cultivation increased total net income to Rs. 28,170 per season. Economic projections indicated that the model remains profitable and scalable at the one-acre level.

Conclusion: Vermicompost-integrated organic vegetable cultivation is a financially viable, environmentally sustainable, and scalable production system that can enhance farm income while reducing dependence on external inputs.

Genetic Variability, Heritability and Quality Trait Analysis in the F₂ Population of a Yellow × Red-Colored Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) Cross

D. Divyabharathi — 2026-05-29

Background: Chilli is an economically important spice crop valued for its carotenoid pigments, pungency and nutraceutical properties; however, information on the inheritance of processing-quality traits in segregating populations remains limited.

Aims: To assess genetic variability, heritability and genetic advance for horticultural, yield and quality traits in an F₂ population of chilli derived from the cross LCA-807 × LCA-657, with emphasis on carotenoid-related processing quality traits.

Study Design: Experimental field study using an F₂ segregating population.

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted under open-field conditions at the College of Horticulture, Anantharajupeta, Dr. YSR Horticultural University, Andhra Pradesh during the Summer, 2024.

Methodology: An F₂ population developed from the cross between red and yellow fruited chilli genotypes, LCA-807 and LCA-657, was evaluated for 19 morphological, biochemical and industrial-quality traits. Standard biometrical analyses were performed to estimate phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV), genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV), broad-sense heritability and genetic advance to determine the extent of variability and nature of inheritance among the studied traits.

Results: The F₂ population exhibited wide phenotypic variation for growth, earliness, yield and carotenoid content, indicating extensive recombination among segregants. The highest variability was observed for red carotenoids with PCV and GCV values of 79.02% and 79.01%, respectively, followed by total colour value and dry fruit yield, suggesting strong genetic control with minimal environmental influence. High broad-sense heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for red carotenoids, total colour value, fresh fruit yield, dry fruit yield, oleoresin and ascorbic acid content, indicating the predominance of additive gene action and the effectiveness of direct selection for these traits.

Conclusion: The study revealed substantial genetic variability and strong inheritance for important yield and quality traits in the F₂ population of chilli. Traits showing high heritability and genetic advance can be effectively utilized in breeding programmes aimed at developing superior processing-type chilli genotypes with enhanced pigment concentration, yield and nutraceutical quality.

Effect of Soil and Foliar Application of Zinc and Iron on Growth, Yield and Quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.) var. Pusa Mukta

Ankita Sihag — 2026-05-30

Background and Aims: Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is a biennial herbaceous vegetable crop, belongs to Brassicaceae family with the diploid chromosome number 2n =2x =18. The present investigation was conducted at the Agricultural Research Farm, Suresh Gyan Vihar University, Jaipur to study the effect of soil and foliar application of Zinc and Iron on growth, yield and quality of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata L.).

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted during Rabi season, 2025-26.

Methodology:The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with two factors viz. first factor: soil application (4 levels, control, ZnSO₄ @20kg/ha, FeSO₄ @20kg/ha and ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @20kg/ha) and second factor: foliar application (4 levels, control, ZnSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT, FeSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT and ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @100ppm at 25 DAT) replicated thrice. The observed data was analyzed in OPSTAT.

Results: The results revealed significant differences among the factors and interactions. Among the treatment combination Superior growth, yield, quality parameters viz. maximum plant height (31.16 cm), plant spread (57.4 cm), minimum number of non-wrapper leaves per plant (10.343), maximum leaf area (953.38 cm²), head diameter (15.08 cm), minimum days taken to head initiation (51.27), head maturity (76.75), maximum fresh weight of head (1080.26 g), yield per plot (36.053 kg), total yield per hectare (52.03 t/ha), total soluble solids (7.44 ⁰Brix), ascorbic acid content (41.22 mg/100g) and chlorophyll content in leaves (74.37) were observed in the treatment combination of ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 20 kg/ha X ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 100 ppm at 25 days after transplanting (M₄T₄) whereas the minimum was observed in control.

Conclusion: Although these results are only indicative and require further experimentation to arrive at more consistent and credible conclusion, the treatment ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 20 kg/ha X ZnSO₄ + FeSO₄ @ 100 ppm at 25 days after transplanting (M₄T₄) may be recommended for obtaining higher yield and superior quality of Cabbage.

Seasonal Incidence of Major Insect Pests of Mustard in Relation to Weather Variables in Eastern Uttar Pradesh, India

Saurabh Yadav — 2026-05-30

Mustard is an important rabi oilseed crop in India that is attacked by several major insect pests such as aphid, sawfly, cabbage butterfly, and painted bug, which cause significant yield losses. Their population dynamics are strongly influenced by weather factors like temperature and relative humidity, making it important to study their seasonal incidence for better pest management and forecasting. The present investigation was conducted at the Entomology Research Farm, Institute of Agriculture and Natural Sciences, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gorakhpur University, Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh during the rabi season of 2022–23 to study the seasonal incidence of major insect pests of mustard in relation to weather variables. Mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi first appeared during the 48^th SMW and attained peak population (185.06 aphids/10 cm central shoot) during the 6^th SMW. Mustard sawfly, Athalia lugens proxima reached peak population of 8.29 larvae/plant during the 7^th SMW, while cabbage butterfly, Pieris brassicae and painted bug, Bagrada hilaris recorded maximum populations of 2.36 larvae/plant and 5.33 bugs/plant during the 6^th and 4^th SMW, respectively. Correlation analysis revealed that aphid population showed significant negative correlation with maximum (r = -0.599; p<0.05) and minimum temperature (r = -0.614; p<0.05), while painted bug also exhibited significant negative correlation with maximum (r = -0.768; p<0.01) and minimum temperature (r = -0.725; p<0.01). Evening relative humidity showed positive association with aphid (r = 0.558; p<0.05) and painted bug (r = 0.683; p<0.01) populations. The study indicated that weather parameters considerably influenced pest population dynamics in mustard crop.

Comparative Evaluation of Bioagents, Botanical Extracts, and Fungicides for Enhancing Seed Germination and Seedling Vigour in Brassica juncea

Yaragorla Hanumantha Rao — 2026-06-01

Seed-borne pathogens, particularly Alternaria brassicae, cause significant losses in Brassica juncea by reducing germination, lowering seedling vigour, and increasing early-season mortality. Eco-friendly seed treatment approaches using bioagents and botanical extracts may offer viable alternatives to chemical fungicides by enhancing seed health and crop stand establishment. Seventeen treatments comprising bioagents (Trichoderma spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, Bacillus subtilis), botanical extracts (garlic, ginger, turmeric, tulsi, lantana), and fungicides (Carbendazim + Mancozeb, Difenoconazole, Trifloxystrobin, Fluxapyroxad, Penflufen) were evaluated using the standard blotter method (ISTA guidelines). Germination percentage, seedling length, and seed vigour index (SVI) were recorded from three replications in a completely randomized design, and treatment means were compared using Duncan's Multiple Range Test at the 5% probability level. Allium sativum (garlic) extract achieved the highest germination (96%), seedling length (4.1 cm), and vigour index (393.6), followed by Zingiber officinale (ginger) extract (92%, 3.8 cm, 349.6) and the Trichoderma harzianum + T. viride consortium (92%, 3.6 cm, 331.2). Under laboratory conditions, botanical extracts generally performed better than bioagents and fungicides in enhancing vigour, while fungicide treatments showed moderate efficacy with mild phytotoxic effects at the concentrations tested. The untreated control recorded the lowest values (56%, 2.0 cm, 112.0). Statistical analysis confirmed highly significant inter-treatment differences (SEm ± 0.91; CD₀₅ = 2.63 for germination percentage). These findings suggest that garlic and ginger extracts, as well as Trichoderma-based consortia, are cost effective and environmentally compatible alternatives to chemical fungicides for integrated seed health management in mustard cultivation.

Optimizing Turmeric (Curcuma longa) Yield through Canopy Pruning in a Dalbergia sissoo Agrisilviculture System

Vijay Bagare — 2026-06-01

Agrisilviculture systems integrating multipurpose tree species with medicinal and spice crops can improve land productivity and ecological sustainability. However, excessive canopy competition may reduce understorey crop performance, making canopy management essential for optimizing yield. A field experiment was conducted during the Kharif season of 2014-15 in a well-established 16-year-old Dalbergia sissoo DC. plantation at the research farm of Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya (JNKVV), Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh (23 deg 18 min N, 79 deg 59 min E; 411.78 m a.m.s.l.), to evaluate the effect of four pruning intensities on the growth, leaf area index (LAI), and rhizome yield of intercropped turmeric (Curcuma longa L., var. Suroma). The experiment was laid out in a Strip Plot Design with four replications. Main treatments comprised P0 (no pruning), P1 (25% pruning), P2 (50% pruning), and P3 (75% pruning) of the D. sissoo canopy, with an open (no-tree) control. Plant height, stem diameter, and LAI were recorded at 30-day intervals from 30 to 180 days after planting (DAP) and at harvest. Yield-attributing characters and fresh rhizome yield (kg ha⁻¹) were recorded at harvest. Results demonstrated that P1 (25% pruning) consistently produced the highest values across all growth and yield parameters. Maximum fresh rhizome yield (3,385.9 kg ha⁻¹) was recorded under P1, followed by P2 (3,221.3 kg ha⁻¹), P0 (3,072.8 kg ha⁻¹), open condition (3,012.9 kg ha⁻¹), and the lowest under P3 (2,960.6 kg ha⁻¹). These findings demonstrate that moderate pruning of the D. sissoo canopy at 25% creates a favourable microenvironment for turmeric production and is recommended for agrisilviculture systems in the Mahakoshal region of central India.

Mapping Salinity Tolerance QTLs at Early Seedling Stage in Rice Using F\(_2\) Mapping Population

K. Vijaya Durga — 2026-06-01

Salinity stress is one of the most widespread soil problem next to drought, in rice growing areas around the globe. Genetically improving salt tolerance in rice is a highly important in rice breeding programs. In this investigation, QTL analysis of seven physiological traits related to salt tolerance at seedling stage was carried out using F₂ population derived from a cross between a salt-tolerant variety, MTU 1061 (Indra), and a salt-sensitive variety, MTU 1121 (Sri Druthi). 234 F_2:3 lines were evaluated for salt tolerance at seedling stage in a hydroponics experiment. Genotyping was carried out using 234 chosen F₂ plants with 104 polymorphic SSR markers, yielding a genetic linkage map extending 2956.12 cM of whole rice genome. Applying the Inclusive Composite Interval Mapping (ICIM), a total of 51 QTLs were detected as follows; two QTLs for SIS score, four QTLs for shoot Na⁺ concentration, two QTLs for shoot K⁺ concentration, 16 QTLs for NaK ratio, 17 QTLs for shoot length, six QTLs for root length and four QTLs for shoot dry weight. Out of the 51 QTLs, one of the QTL qNaK-1-1 position was corresponding to Saltol locus on chromosome 1. The phenotypic variation explained by these QTLs ranged from 0.1 to 11% of the total variation. Overall, this research adds to our understanding of the genetic basis of salt tolerance mechanism in rice and identifies potential QTLs for future breeding efforts utilizing MAS.

Quality of Lemongrass Leaves under Khamer-Based Agroforestry: Effect of Pruning Intensity and Nutrient Supply on Essential Oil Content

Sunita Patel — 2026-06-02

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) is an economically important aromatic crop widely cultivated for its essential oil, yet its productivity under tree-based agroforestry systems in central India remains poorly documented. Pruning directly influences the light environment experienced by understorey crops, with intensive pruning enhancing the availability of photosynthetically active radiation. However, excessive pruning may adversely affect cumulative biomass production and metabolite accumulation. The present study aimed to evaluate the influence of pruning intensity and nutrient management on the essential oil content of lemongrass grown under Gmelina arborea (Khamer)-based agroforestry, and to identify the optimal combination of these practices for maximizing oil yield in such systems. A two-year field experiment (2021–22 and 2022–23) was conducted at a farmer's field in Village Gram Para, Bargi Dam area, District Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India. Four pruning intensities (P0 – no pruning, P25 – 25%, P50 – 50%, and P75 – 75% canopy removal) were assigned as main-plot treatments, and four nutrient management regimes (T1 – inorganic fertilizer at 60:40:40 N:P:K kg ha⁻¹, T2 – organic manure at 3.5 t ha⁻¹, T3 – vermicompost at 15 t ha⁻¹, and T4 – control) as sub-plot treatments, laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Data were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA) appropriate for a split-plot design. Treatment means were compared using the critical difference (CD) at the 5% level of significance. All analyses were performed in SPSS v16.0. Essential oil content (%) was significantly reduced with increasing pruning intensity across both years and pooled data; the unpruned control (P0) recorded the highest pooled mean oil content (0.66%), significantly superior to the most intensively pruned treatment P75 (0.16%). Among nutrient treatments, vermicompost (T3) produced the highest pooled mean essential oil content (0.52%), significantly surpassing inorganic fertilizer (T1) and the control (T4), while T1 and organic manure (T2) were statistically at par. These findings demonstrate that minimal pruning combined with vermicompost application constitutes the most effective management strategy for maximizing lemongrass essential oil quality under Khamer-based agroforestry conditions in central India. The finding shows that P0 and P25 were significantly superior to P75 across all years and have practical implications for agroforestry management in the AABR region. Farmers practising intensive annual pruning (P75) to reduce shade on understorey crops face a substantial trade-off: while light availability may increase, lemongrass essential oil quality — and hence commercial value — is severely compromised.

Host Plant-dependent Variation in Growth and Developmental Traits of Spodoptera litura (Fabricius)

Nikhitha Gangavarapu — 2026-06-02

Background and Aims: Spodoptera litura is a major polyphagous pest causing significant economic losses across diverse crops. This study evaluated the influence of different host plants on developmental biology and morphometric characteristics of S. litura to identify hosts affecting pest performance for sustainable management strategies.

Study Design: The experiment was conducted in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five treatments (host plants) and 20 replications per treatment (n = 100 total larvae).

Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted in the Department of Agricultural Entomology, Institute of Agriculture, Visva-Bharati, Sriniketan, West Bengal, India, during 2023-24 under controlled laboratory conditions.

Methodology: Five host plants viz; castor, cabbage, mustard, brinjal, and red gram were cultivated organically for feeding S litura larvae. Egg masses collected from naturally infested castor plants were used to establish a laboratory colony. Individual larvae were reared separately in ventilated plastic containers under controlled conditions. Fresh leaves were provided daily, and containers were cleaned regularly to maintain hygiene. Morphometric parameters and developmental durations of different life stages were recorded daily using standard measuring methods, while pupae and adults were observed for sex determination and longevity studies. Data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA in Jamovi software, and significant differences among treatments were compared using Tukey’s HSD test at p < 0.05.

Results: Development and morphometrics varied significantly across host plants. Castor-fed larvae showed optimal overall performance with the shortest lifecycle (30.35 ± 2.27 days), while cabbage supported the fastest larval development but the longest 5th instar larvae (3.8595 ± 0.06 cm). Red gram and brinjal extended larval periods and produced smaller adults. Mustard-fed larvae had the longest total lifecycle (41.65 ± 0.34 days) but the highest adult longevity (9.3 ± 0.14 days). This study demonstrated that host plant selection significantly affects the developmental biology and morphometric traits of Spodoptera litura, with castor supporting optimal growth and rapid development, while red gram and brinjal resulted in slower development and reduced body size.

Conclusion: Poor-performing hosts such as red gram and brinjal may be incorporated into crop rotation or trap-cropping strategies to suppress Spodoptera litura populations and support sustainable pest management. Further studies are needed to understand the biochemical basis of host plant effects and validate these findings under field conditions for effective integrated pest management applications.

Comparative Evaluation of the Effects of Various Bio-Regulators on Flowering and Yield Attributes of African Marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda

Devendra Kumar — 2026-06-02

African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) is an important commercial flower crop widely cultivated for ornamental, religious, and industrial purposes; however, its flowering and yield are greatly influenced by plant growth regulators and environmental conditions. This investigation, was carried out during the Rabi season of 2020–21 at Horticulture Research Farm-I, Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The trial was arranged using a Randomized Block Design (RBD) with ten treatments and three replications, more or less. Basically, the treatments were foliar sprays of gibberellic acid (GA₃) at 50, 100, and 200 ppm, naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) at 100, 200, and 300 ppm, and Ethrel at 200, 300, 400 ppm. Alongside these, a control was maintained with just water spray. The outcomes showed that these bio-regulators had a strong and noticeable impact on flowering, yield, and the related traits of African marigold. When it comes to overall performance, GA₃ at 200 ppm turned out to be the best. It led to early bud initiation around 48.79 days, and also supported a longer flowering interval of 48.90 days. Other measured effects also favored this treatment, like an increased flower stalk length of 9.51 cm, higher number of flowers per plant (28.01), and bigger flower diameter (9.35 cm). For yield, GA₃ at 200 ppm produced the greatest flower yield, with 346.90 g per plant and 183.81 q per hectare. Ethrel at 400 ppm recorded the maximum flower weight (11.97 g), but it also caused a delay in flowering, you could say. Meanwhile, the control plants did not perform as well in most traits compared to the treated ones. So, the study can be concluded as, foliar spraying of GA₃ at 200 ppm is a highly effective option for improving flowering, flower yield, and overall quality of African marigold cv. Pusa Narangi Gainda, particularly under subtropical weather.

Correlation and Path Coefficient Analysis of Yield and Its Contributing Traits in Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica L.)

A. M. Sorathia — 2026-06-02

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica) is an important nutritious and climate-resilient cereal crop cultivated under diverse agro-climatic conditions. Grain yield is a complex trait influenced by several interrelated characters; therefore, correlation and path coefficient analysis help identify important yield-contributing traits for effective crop improvement and selection. The present investigation was carried out in 30 genotypes of foxtail millet to measure correlation and path coefficients. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with three replications at Hill Millet Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University, Waghai (The Dangs). The result showed grain yield/plant to have highly significant positive correlation with panicle weight, straw yield per plant at both phenotypic and genotypic levels, while a highly significant negative correlation was recorded with productive tillers/ plant at both levels and a non- significant positive with days to 50% flowering, days to maturity, plant height and panicle length at phenotypic and genotypic levels. Path coefficient analysis revealed that higher positive direct effect on grain yield per plant was exhibited by straw yield per plant followed by days to maturity, 1000 grain weight, panicle weight, days to 50% flowering, protein content and panicle length, so they could be used as selection criteria for effective improvement of grain yield in foxtail millet.

Innovations in Pollination Methods: Transition towards Modern Pollination in Precision Agriculture

N. Vairam — 2026-05-26

Pollination is a critical ecological process that directly influences global food production, biodiversity, and ecosystem stability. Traditional pollination methods—primarily reliant on natural pollinators such as bees, butterflies and manual human-assisted techniques—have supported agriculture for centuries. However, rapid declines in pollinator populations, intensification of farming systems, and the growing demand for higher crop yields have accelerated the shift toward innovative and technologically advanced pollination strategies. This review examines the evolution of pollination approaches from conventional practices to modern precision agriculture techniques. The present review was conducted using secondary sources derived from existing academic literature, including peer-reviewed journal articles, books, and conference proceedings. It highlights recent advancements, including mechanical pollinators, drone-assisted pollination, artificial intelligence–based flower detection, robotic micro-pollinators, and controlled-environment pollination systems used in protected cultivation. Furthermore, the abstract synthesises insights on the efficacy, scalability, ecological impacts, and economic feasibility of these innovations. By integrating traditional knowledge with cutting-edge technologies, precision pollination offers promising avenues for sustainable crop production, climate resilience, and enhanced food security. Future advancements are expected to focus on reducing research and development costs while enhancing the supporting infrastructure of pollination systems to achieve greater cost-effectiveness. The integration of image sensors with diverse pollination technologies is improving adaptability and efficiency across a wide range of greenhouse crops. These technological developments are accelerating the pollination process while simultaneously addressing economic constraints, thereby supporting the broader adoption of automated pollination solutions in modern agriculture. Overall, this review underscores the need for interdisciplinary research, farmer-friendly innovations, and policy support to ensure the future of pollination in modern agriculture.

Patenting Plant Biotechnology Innovations: Legal Frameworks, Limitations and Ethical Implications

C. Ninitha Nath — 2026-06-02

The patenting of biotechnology innovations in plant breeding occupies one of the most contested intersections of intellectual property law, agricultural science, and global ethics. Over the past five decades, the expansion of utility patents, plant variety rights, and related forms of intellectual property protection to encompass seeds, genetic traits, gene-editing tools, and biological processes has reshaped the landscape of crop improvement worldwide. This review critically examines the scope of patent protection currently afforded to plant biotechnology innovations, surveys the principal limitations that constrain both patentees and those who seek freedom to operate, and engages systematically with the ethical concerns that have accumulated around these developments. Literature for this review was identified through systematic searches of the following databases: Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar, PubMed, AGRIS (FAO Global Index of Agricultural Research), CAB Abstracts, the JSTOR Global Plant Science Collection, WIPO PATENTSCOPE (for regulatory and legislative background), and the Social Science Research Network (SSRN) for pre-publication working papers in law and economics. The article traces the evolution of the international legal framework from the foundational TRIPS Agreement and the UPOV Convention through to the 2024 WIPO Treaty on Intellectual Property, Genetic Resources and Associated Traditional Knowledge. It examines how recent genomic technologies, particularly CRISPR-Cas genome editing, are generating unprecedented patent complexity, and considers how regulatory debates in the European Union illustrate the broader tensions between innovation incentives and public interest imperatives. The concentration of patent portfolios within a small number of transnational agrochemical corporations is analysed in relation to seed market consolidation, rising seed prices, and narrowing access to genetic resources for public-sector breeders and smallholder farmers. Ethical concerns addressed include biopiracy, the erosion of farmers' seed-saving rights, the threat to agrobiodiversity, and the inequitable distribution of biotechnological benefits between the Global North and Global South. The review also considers emerging alternative models, including open-source licensing and digital sequence information governance frameworks, and reflects on the contested future of intellectual property in plant breeding.