INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PLANT AND ENVIRONMENT

Bioremediation of Cadmium through Hyperaccumulating Plants: Mechanisms, Molecular Pathways and Future Prospects

2025-06-25T11:21:32+00:00

Cadmium (Cd) is a toxic heavy metal that significantly endangers both environmental and human health. Its presence in soil and water can have devastating effects on ecosystems, and it can accumulate in the food chain, leading to serious health problems for humans. Fortunately, nature offers a powerful and elegant solution to this problem: phytoremediation. Phytoremediation is an eco-friendly and cost-efficient strategy that employs plants to extract, neutralize, or immobilize environmental contaminants. Unlike conventional remediation techniques, it offers a sustainable solution for pollutant removal. Certain plant species are capable of absorbing cadmium from the soil through their root systems. Some of these plant species, termed ‘hyperaccumulators,’ exhibit an exceptional capacity to sequester elevated levels of cadmium within their biomass, predominantly localizing the metal in foliar and stem tissues These plants act as green sponges, effectively extracting the metal from the soil. Once absorbed, cadmium is transported throughout the plant via the vascular system. In some cases, plants can efficiently translocate cadmium from their roots to their shoots, making it easier to remove the metal from the contaminated site by harvesting the plant biomass. Plants can also stabilise cadmium in the soil by reducing its bioavailability. This can be achieved through various mechanisms, such as the release of organic acids that bind to cadmium, preventing it from leaching into groundwater or being taken up by other organisms.

Natural Dye-Yielding Plants from the Rubiaceae Family

2024-10-29T14:19:23+00:00

Natural dyes were used in the remote past in various fields of life. Even though the earliest dyes were discovered accidentally, constant experimentation and development have refined the art of dyeing. Even from Mohenjodaro, clothes dyed with plant extracts were discovered, which points to the use of herbal dyeing during the Indus Valley civilization. The existence of natural dyes was annulled by the invention of synthetic dyes at the beginning of the 19^th century, but still, natural dyes keep supremacy due to their unique eco-friendly and biodegradable prospects. It is to be foreseen that the natural dyes are producing less intense colours and are more prone to poor light, wash and rub fastnesses. The fastness property can be improved by using different mordants, and mordanting methods during the dyeing process. Manufacturers abstained from the usage of organic dyes because these were obtained at extremely small quantities from their sources as well as the expense of extraction. In this paper, the most commonly used natural dyeing plants from the rubiaceae family, their extraction, and application were discussed.

A Comprehensive Review of Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides) - Chemical Composition, Biological Properties, Cultivation, and Applications

2024-11-13T11:04:02+00:00

Vetiver (Chrysopogon zizanioides, formerly Vetiveria zizanioides) has gained attention for its wide therapeutic and industrial applications. The essential oil from its roots possesses various bioactive properties, notably antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory activities. Its chemical composition includes compounds such as khusimol, vetiverol, and vetiverone, which contribute to both aroma and therapeutic properties. This review synthesizes existing knowledge on vetiver’s chemical composition, cultivation, pharmacological properties, and environmental benefits, underscoring its role in traditional medicine and modern industry.

Exploring the Applications and Implications of Silver Nitrate and Silver Nanoparticles in Plant Tissue Culture

2024-11-08T12:38:40+00:00

Silver nitrate and silver nanoparticles have emerged as versatile tools in plant tissue culture, offering a range of applications in micropropagation, regeneration, and metabolite production. This review highlights the benefits and limitations of using silver nitrate and silver nanoparticles in plant tissue culture, including their role in enhancing shoot growth, regeneration, and secondary metabolite production. Additionally, their potential in large-scale propagation, preservation of ornamental plants, and salinity tolerance is discussed. While silver nitrate and silver nanoparticles have shown promise, their use also raises concerns about phytotoxicity and genetic instability. This review aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the applications and implications of using silver nitrate and silver nanoparticles in plant tissue culture, shedding light on their potential for future research and applications.

Exploring The Phytochemistry, Ethnobotany, Traditional Uses, Pharmacology, Nutraceutical Benefits, and Clinical Potential of Myrica esculenta

2024-09-24T07:10:51+00:00

The increasing use of spices and medicinal plants in pharmaceuticals and daily life has significantly boosted agronomy, pharmacy, and export sectors. Within this context, Myrica esculenta (Boxberry/Kaiphal), the only Indian species of the genus Myrica (family Myricaceae), has gained prominence due to its ethnobotanical and pharmacological importance, particularly in the Himalayan regions. This study explores the phytochemical composition, traditional uses, and pharmacological potential of M. esculenta. Preliminary screening of methanolic and aqueous extracts from bark and leaves revealed bioactive compounds like tannins, flavonoids, phenols, and saponins known for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cardioprotective activities. Characterization through HPLC, GC-MS, and FTIR confirmed their presence. In-vitro assays demonstrated significant antioxidant activity in the methanolic extract and effective antimicrobial action against common pathogens. Ethnobotanical surveys highlighted its traditional use in treating cough, fever, digestive issues, and skin diseases. The findings validate the plant’s therapeutic potential and support its development into herbal remedies and nutraceuticals. Further in-vivo studies and clinical trials are recommended to substantiate these results. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern science could promote sustainable use of this valuable Himalayan species and contribute to the advancement of plant-based healthcare solutions.

Zinc in Wheat Cultivation: Physiological Roles, Agronomic Impact, and Management Strategies—A Comprehensive Review

2025-01-08T10:26:22+00:00

Zinc (Zn) is an essential micronutrient in wheat cultivation, playing a pivotal role in plant growth, yield optimization, and grain nutritional quality. Despite its significance, zinc deficiency remains widespread in cereal-growing regions, leading to reduced crop productivity and contributing to micronutrient malnutrition in human populations. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of zinc’s physiological functions, uptake mechanisms, and interactions with other nutrients in wheat systems. It examines zinc’s influence on key agronomic traits such as grain yield, biomass accumulation, and stress resilience. Furthermore, the review explores various zinc management approaches, including the development of zinc-efficient wheat genotypes, biofortification strategies, and both basal and foliar fertilization techniques. Regional challenges and context-specific solutions for mitigating zinc deficiency are also discussed. The review concludes by emphasizing the importance of integrated nutrient management and innovative agronomic practices to enhance zinc availability, improve wheat productivity, and contribute to global efforts in combating micronutrient malnutrition.

Utilization of Growth Hormones in Commercial Strawberry Production- A Review

2024-10-28T16:30:22+00:00

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa) is a significant fruit crop cultivated worldwide, noted for its nutritional benefits and economic importance. However, the cultivation of strawberries in commercial environments faces significant challenges, including insufficient yields, irregular fruit ripening, and a limited post-harvest shelf life. The application of plant growth hormones offers a potential answer to these issues by regulating critical physiological processes, such as fruit set, growth, ripening, and stress responses. This investigation investigates the utilisation of essential growth hormones—auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene, and brassinosteroids—in enhancing strawberry productivity and fruit quality. Auxins, particularly indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), have been shown to increase fruit weight by up to 20% by facilitating improved fruit set and reducing fruit drop. Gibberellins (GA) facilitate cell elongation, resulting in a 25-30% augmentation in fruit size, while cytokinins stimulate cell division and improve yield by 15-18%. The roles of abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene in ripening are crucial, with ABA applications leading to a 12-15% enhancement in the sugar concentration of strawberries, as measured by the Brix index. Moreover, brassinosteroids are acknowledged for their role in augmenting plant resilience to abiotic stimuli such as drought and heat, leading to a stress tolerance enhancement of up to 30%. The application of growth hormones in strawberry cultivation has shown an economic advantage, enhancing yields by 15-30%. This is particularly pertinent in emerging markets like India, where current yields (15-20 tonnes per hectare) are below world levels (25-30 tonnes per hectare). The global strawberry market is projected to grow from USD 17.8 billion in 2021 to USD 23.1 billion by 2026. The judicious use of growth hormones is crucial for ensuring fruit quality, reducing waste, and increasing profitability. This investigation highlights the potential use of growth hormone to address major agricultural difficulties, improving both the yield and market attractiveness of strawberries, while providing insights into the development of more sustainable and economically viable farming practices.

Green Synthesis of Reduced Graphene Oxide using Diplazium maximum (D. Don) C. Chr.

2024-11-07T09:18:33+00:00

Graphene is important due to its mechanical, electrical, thermal, nontoxic, and extraordinary chemical stability, and high surface area properties. Derivative of graphene, i.e., rGO, can be synthesized by using chemical methods as well as green methods. The present study focuses on synthesizing reduced graphene oxide (rGO) using young fronds of Diplazium maximum. Sustainably synthesized rGO was characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction (XRD), and FTIR analyses. UV-visible spectroscopy revealed increased conjugation as the Graphene oxide was treated with bioactive plant extract, indicating the conversion of GO into rGO. Infrared (IR) analysis indicated the disappearance of several peaks and a fall in the intensity of certain peaks, supporting the successful synthesis of rGO. Additionally gradual disappearance of certain diffraction peaks and the appearance of other peaks in X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis confirmed the successful synthesis of rGO by using D. maximum phytoextract. Results successfully demonstrated that the synthesis of reduced graphene oxide using the young frond of D. maximum was lucrative, renewable, and environmentally friendly.

Evaluating River Water Quality in India: A Focus on Samudrakoop, A Protected Monument

2025-03-06T07:22:24+00:00

This study reviews the water quality of rivers at different religious and historical places in India and investigates the seasonal dynamics of algal communities and the associated water quality parameters in Samudrakoop, an ancient well located at an archaeological site in Prayagraj, India. The research evaluates the relationship between physicochemical parameters (temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and nutrient levels) and algal diversity, providing insights into the well’s ecological health across different seasons. The findings reveal variations in algal communities and water quality, which are influenced by seasonal changes, anthropogenic activities, and the well's historical significance. The critical analysis of different research papers reveals anthropogenic activities as the main cause of degradation of water quality. This study offers valuable data for conservation efforts and the management of ancient water bodies.

Water Quality and Health Risk Assessment of Surface Water, Groundwater, and Sediments along Kali River

2025-01-16T08:29:17+00:00

The current study assesses the physicochemical properties and heavy metal concentrations (Cd, Ni, As, Cr, Pb, Cu, Mn, Zn, Fe) in groundwater, surface water, and sediment across 15 sites along the Kali River in the Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, and Meerut districts of Uttar Pradesh. The results show average pH values of 7.7 in groundwater and 7.2 in surface water, with electrical conductivity measured at 670.87 μScm-1 and 1143 μScm-1, and TDS values of 469.61mgl-1 and 800.43 mgl-1, respectively. Various cations and anions were present in the water, such as (Ca²⁺, Mg²⁺, Na⁺, K⁺, HCO₃⁻, Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, NO₃⁻, etc. Indices such as Na%, SAR, MH, and PI indicate that the water is suitable for irrigation with some treatment. Sediment analysis reveals a pH of 7.2, conductivity of 16,701μScm-1, TOC of 2.37%, and TOM of 4.09%. Heavy metal concentrations in groundwater and sediment follow the order: Cd < Ni < As < Cr < Pb < Cu < Mn < Zn < Fe, while in surface water, the order is Cd < As < Ni < Cr < Pb < Zn < Cu < Mn < Fe. Some metal levels exceed drinking water standards at certain sites (G1, G2, G8, G12, and S5 to S10). PCA identifies three factors explaining 99.13% of the variance, indicating natural and human metal contamination sources. Risk and heavy metal pollution indices highlight elevated risks at specific sites, posing serious threats not only to crop safety and human health through irrigation but also to broader ecological systems. This underscores the urgent need for site-specific remediation to ensure the sustainability of agricultural practices and to prevent bioaccumulation in the food chain.

Sensory Evaluation of a Dairy-Based Millet Nutri-Mix: A Preliminary Consumer Study

2024-12-26T06:35:55+00:00

The increasing interest in functional foods with enhanced nutritional benefits has prompted the exploration of traditional grains and dairy products as foundational ingredients. This study focuses on developing a millet-enriched, milk-based nutri-mix designed to offer a nutrient-dense beverage suitable for consumers of all age groups. Minor millets, such as Kodo (Paspalum scrobiculatum) and little millet (Panicum sumatrense), are rich in dietary fiber, protein, and minerals, contributing to improved digestion, glycemic control, and cardiovascular health. Jaggery provides natural sweetness along with iron, while milk powder—high in calcium and protein—supports bone health and overall growth. The formulation was developed using germinated Kodo (P. scrobiculatum) and little millets (P. sumatrense), which were dehydrated and milled under controlled conditions. The resulting malt was combined with milk powder to prepare the nutri-mix. Three variations were tested, each containing 20% Kodo millet (P. scrobiculatum) malt, 20% little millet (P. sumatrense), malt, 30% milk powder, 10% flavouring, and 20% jaggery powder. Flavor types included flaxseed (T1), cocoa (T2), and almond (T3). Sensory evaluation was conducted through a 9-point hedonic scale by a panel of 10 semi-trained members. Treatments T1 and T3 received overall acceptability scores of 5.96 ± 0.50 and 6.00 ± 0.40, respectively, while T2 (cocoa) achieved the highest score of 7.26 ± 0.33 and was statistically distinct from the other samples (p < 0.001). These findings suggest that the cocoa-flavored nutri-mix (T2) was the most preferred among consumers, highlighting its potential as an appetizing and nutritionally augmented health beverage.

Allelopathic Effects of Invasive Alien Plant Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray on Pisum sativum L.

2024-11-27T14:49:30+00:00

The essential factors for the success of invasive alien plants are considered to be the presence of allelochemicals, which are considered “novel weapons”. The allelochemicals released by invasive plants interact differently with each other, especially native and endemic diversity, and also serve as a biological defense against plant diseases and pathogens. To this end, Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl.) A. Gray, an emerging invasive alien plant in the northeastern (NE) Himalayas, is scantly investigated in terms of exhibiting allelopathy, despite being an aggressive weed in Mizoram, NE India. Especially, their effects on widely edible crops need to be studied because of their inextricable linkage with food productivity and rural livelihood. Thus, the present investigation was carried out on the allelopathic effects of T. diversifolia, based on the physical parameters such as SH, RL, SL, B, GPe, GPo, GI, GRI and VI on the selected common crop Pisum sativum L. through a pot bioassay experiment. In this respect, two highly invaded sites of T. diversifolia were selected for the collection of soil samples based on the variable disturbance factors. The present result concluded that T. diversifolia has strong stimulatory allelopathic effects on the growth parameters of P. sativum at the initial stage of the seed germination; however, it tends to normalize at the later stage of germination. The infested soil of T. diversifolia was observed to be suitable for growing food crops, although it may take longer to germinate due to the allelopathic effect of T. diversifolia. Nevertheless, wise utilization of the leaf leachates may enhance soil fertility for better production of food crops and facilitate sustainable agriculture.

Bacterial Identification and Profiling of Selected Street Foods

2025-10-25T12:27:20+00:00

India is renowned for its diverse and vibrant street food culture, with a substantial portion of the population regularly indulging in these local delicacies. This study evaluates the bacteriological quality of a variety of street foods sold across different regions of Jabalpur city. A total of 48 samples—including pani puri, chaat, mango shakes, and sugarcane juice—were aseptically collected from various locations and analyzed within one hour of collection. Microbiological analyses involved serial dilution, pour plate techniques, selective and differential media, and biochemical characterization to identify bacterial contaminants. Results revealed that sugarcane juice exhibited the highest total viable count (58.8–156.6 × 10⁻⁵ CFU), followed by pani puri (masala pani: 58.6–121.3 × 10⁻⁵ CFU; matar: 48–119.3 × 10⁻⁵ CFU), chaat (41–117 × 10⁻⁵ CFU), and mango shake (34.6–117 × 10⁻⁵ CFU). Several pathogenic microorganisms were detected in these samples, including Enterobacter faecalis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Salmonella spp., Pseudomonas fluorescens, Streptococcus spp., Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Shigella spp., V. vulnificus, V. parahaemolyticus, V. cholerae, Micrococcus luteus, and Proteus mirabilis—all of which are known to cause foodborne illnesses. These findings underscore the widespread presence of pathogenic bacteria in street foods, posing significant public health concerns. The study highlights the urgent need for health education programs targeting street food vendors to promote safe food handling and hygiene practices. Enhancing awareness and training among vendors can substantially reduce the risk of foodborne diseases and improve the overall microbiological safety of street food.

Preliminary Phytochemical Screening and Comparative Antioxidant Potential of Garcinia indica (Thouars) Choisy, Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) N. Robson and Garcinia talbotii Raizada ex. Santapau

2025-05-28T11:05:42+00:00

The Garcinia genus is well known for its fruit-bearing tree species found in the Indian subcontinent and tropics all over the world. Three species of Garcinia were selected for this study, viz., G. indica (listed as vulnerable in the IUCN Red list), G. gummi-gutta and G. talbotii (both listed as species of least concern in the IUCN Red list), all of which are endemic to the Western Ghats region. This study was undertaken to assess the phytochemical profile of the selected species as well as to determine their antioxidant potential. Extracts of leaves, bark and fruit rind prepared in 70% ethanol were used for the analysis. The major categories of bioactive compounds were found to be alkaloids, diterpenes, phenolics, flavonoids and coumarins, present in leaves, bark as well as fruit rind. Total Phenolic Content and Total Flavonoid Content were highest in G. gummi gutta bark, followed by G. indica bark and finally G. talbotii leaves. DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1- picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS (2,2’-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)) assays were used to evaluate the antioxidant potential of the extracts and Ascorbic acid was used as the reference standard. Lowest IC50 values were exhibited by G. gummi-gutta bark extract (14.11 ± 0.21 μg/mL in DPPH assay; 5.37 ± 0.03 μg/mL in ABTS assay). IC50 values of G. indica bark extract were found to be 32.43 ± 0.63 μg/mL in DPPH assay and 12.08 ± 0.12 μg/mL in ABTS assay. Surprisingly, G. talbotii fruit rind showed an IC50 value of 34.18 ± 0.27 μg/ mL in DPPH assay, while G. talbotii leaves showed an IC50 value of 6.74 ± 0.09 μg/mL in ABTS assay, which is comparable to the efficacy of the standard. These findings hint at the strong antioxidant potential displayed by all three species, especially G. talbotii, which has not been extensively studied until now. This research work also signifies the importance of underutilized plant parts (bark and leaves) of well-known fruit trees belonging to Garcinia genus.

Identification of Nutraceutically Important Metabolites in Raw and Popped Makhana (Euryale ferox Salisb.) Seeds Using GCMS Technique

2025-05-09T04:28:08+00:00

Euryale ferox, commonly known as fox nut or makhana, is an aquatic plant whose seeds are highly regarded for their nutritional and medicinal values. The plant has several health benefits, including antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory qualities, due to the presence of bioactive phytochemical that include alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and phenolic compounds.Nutritionally, E.ferox seeds are high in proteins, essential amino acids, fiber, polyunsaturated fatty acids (especially omega-3), vitamins (B-complex), and minerals (Ca, Mg, P). Recent developments in analytical methods, particularly Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) can accurately identify and measure the complex phytochemical contents of E. ferox. GC-MS technology allows for a more detailed understanding of the volatile and non-volatile compounds present in the plant, providing insights into its antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-cancer activities. This communication highlights the potential of GC-MS in the comprehensive analysis of E.ferox bioactive constituents. The metabolome obtained shows the presence of 36 metabolites. Major metabolites identified include glycerol, buatnoic acid ,decanoic acid,myristic acid, gallic acid,palmitic acid, myo-inositol, lenoleic acid, farnesol, tricosanoic acid etc. Roles of these compounds on human metabolism have been deciphered .

The results obtained emphasize the need for further research using all possible methods to explore its medicinal and nutritional potentials. The application of GC-MS could significantly contribute to optimizing the use of E.ferox in both functional and therapeutic contexts.

Diversity and Utilisation Pattern of Wild Edible Plant Resources in the Jaunpur Block of Tehri Garhwal District, Uttarakhand, India

2025-02-03T13:41:30+00:00

Wild edible plants serve as a valuable resource, offering not only supplementary nourishment but also constituting a significant component of staple meals as well as providing a potential source of income for the communities. A comprehensive survey of Jaunpur Block has been done in different seasons in a year (2022-23) to assess the diversity and uses of wild edible plants The survey was carried out with questionnaires and in-person interviews in both Hindi and the local dialect (Garhwali). We reported 68 wild edible plants species that belong to 59 genera and 38 families. Among 38 families, maximum species were recorded in Rosaceae (10 spp.). The analysis of life forms showed that a major proportion of species were trees (23 spp.,33%) followed by herbs (21spp.,32%), shrubs (17 spp., 25%) climbers (3spp.,4%), grass (3spp.,4), and Ferns (1spp.,2). The study emphasizes the critical role these plants play in local diets and food security, especially during periods of scarcity. It also addresses concerns about the sustainability of certain species facing anthropogenic pressures, advocating for community engagement and conservation efforts. The findings underscore the rich biodiversity of the region and the importance of wild edible plants in supporting the livelihoods and food security of local communities.

Harnessing Biocontrol Agents to Combat Stem Rot Disease in Peanut Cultivation: A Sustainable Approach for Enhanced Yield and Soil Health

2024-09-30T09:25:19+00:00

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) stands as a crucial oilseed crop in the tropical and subtropical regions of India, esteemed for its high nutritional value comprising proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Yet, its yield faces significant threats from diverse biotic and abiotic stresses prevalent in today's agricultural landscape. Among the biotic stressors, soil- and seed-borne diseases such as collar rot/crown rot/seedling blight (Aspergillus niger), stem rot (Sclerotium rolfsii), and aflaroot (Aspergillus flavus) emerge as major concerns. However, excessive fungicide application, while traditionally employed to combat these diseases, poses risks of soil pollution and disruption of microbial diversity. In response, the exploration of biocontrol agents presents a more sustainable alternative. In the present investigation, nine bacterial isolates were scrutinized for their efficacy as biocontrols against the Sclerotium rolfsii fungus. Notably, Bacillus amyloliquefaciens (N6) and Bacillus subtilis (N9) emerged as promising candidates, showcasing substantial reductions in pathogen growth and disease symptoms, alongside fostering enhanced plant growth. This study heralds a novel avenue for mitigating stem rot disease and bolstering peanut production through the application of biocontrols, heralding a promising stride towards sustainable agriculture practices

Evaluation of Land Capability and Sustainable Agricultural Suitability in Khowai District, Tripura, India: An Integration of RS, GIS & AHP Approaches

2025-07-10T10:54:56+00:00

Land capability and suitability analysis are essential for sustainable land development, where land capability indicates the inherent capacity of land suitability reflects the degree of land utilisation for a specific type of crop. This paper aims to evaluate the land capability and suitability of Khowai District, an ecologically diverse region in India, to provide valuable insights for land management and sustainable land resource utilization. The current study employs a multi-disciplinary approach of integrating Remote Sensing and Geographical Information System (GIS) to assess the land capability and suitability. For this study selected various factors are soil properties, topography, climate, land cover, hydrology, environment, and landforms characteristics. Further, applied the weighted overlay analysis method in QGIS 3.18 software to generate a comprehensive land capability and suitability map based on FAO guidelines. The findings indicate that 87% of the overall area is suitable for cultivating a wide variety of field crops, horticultural crops, and vegetables such as rice, maize, sesamum, pea, potato, banana, pineapple, orange, and mango. Whereas, the remaining 13% are not capable due to persistent constraints related to the terrain, slope, and soil depth. The study reveals that 18.65% of the total area consists of very appropriate regions located in low-elevation zones around Khowai and its tributaries. These areas are characterized by rich alluvial soil and are well-suited for cultivating rice, maize, and mustard crops. Conversely, the not-suitable areas, covering a total of 5.36%, are dispersed in high-elevated regions with landforms surrounded by dense vegetation cover. The study will provide valuable understandings for land use planners and local communities in making well-informed decisions and optimizing land resources for sustainable and resilient agriculture practices in future.

Conspectus of the Family Convolvulaceae with New Additions in Flora of Uttar Pradesh, India

2024-12-11T10:08:05+00:00

The present study provides a comprehensive taxonomic account of the family Convolvulaceae in Uttar Pradesh, India, revealing significant additions to the regional flora. Based on extensive field surveys and herbarium consultations, a total of 74 taxa, including 71 species distributed across 20 genera, were documented. Remarkably, nine species are reported for the first time from the state: Cuscuta campestris Yunck., Dinetus racemosus (Roxb.) Sweet, Ipomoea capitellata Choisy, I. coccinea L., I. hederacea Jacq., I. laxiflora H.J. Chowdhery & Debta, I. littoralis Blume, I. mauritiana Jacq., and I. triloba L. These new records not only enhance the floristic diversity of Uttar Pradesh but also underscore the ecological range and adaptability of the family in varied habitats. Each species was examined for morphological traits, phenology, floral characteristics, dehiscence patterns, and conservation status. The findings highlight the ecological value of Convolvulaceae in local ecosystems and emphasize the urgent need for region-specific conservation measures, particularly for rare and endemic taxa. This study contributes to the baseline knowledge of regional plant biodiversity and serves as a foundation for future generations.

Wetland diversity and Water Quality Dynamics: A Comparative Study of Three Wetlands in Paschim Medinipur District

2024-11-18T09:50:52+00:00

Urbanization, agricultural pollution, siltation, and the invasion of alien species are consistently degrading the water quality of various water bodies in Purulia. Sustainable policies can maintain the ecological balance of these valuable water bodies Which in turn enhance the social health, environmental health, and economic reliability of Paschim Medinipur in future. Therefore, studying the macrophyte diversity and water characteristics of various wetlands is highly relevant. The primary objective was to compare the water quality by the analysis of physico-chemical characteristics of water, and explore the macrophyte diversity in these three significant water bodies. The name of three wetlands Sarsanka Dighi, Bidhyadhar and Samlia Dighi which are situated in the Paschim Medinipur district of West Bengal, India. During the present investigation total number of macrophytes species was identified to be 17 species in the Sarasanka Dighi wetland site, 15 species in the Bidhyadhar and 12 macrophytes species in Samlia Dighi were recorded from three distinct water bodies. Total aquatic macrophytes species density, concentration of dominance value, the macrophytes species diversity, and similarity index were calculated. Total species density and concentration of Dominance value is higher in the Bidhyadharpond wetland but species diversity is higher in the Sarsanka Jhil wetland.

Biogenic Synthesis and Characterization of Bimetallic CuOZnO Nanoparticles from Plant Extracts of Ziziphus mauritiana

2025-06-27T08:20:36+00:00

The Ber plant, also known as Ziziphus mauritiana, is a medium-sized tropical fruit tree in India. It is a member of the Rhamnaceae family. Z. mauritiana's pharmacological and nutritional potential has been extensively studied. Numerous minerals, including iron, copper, zinc, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are abundant in it. This plant's edible portions are high in vitamin A, vitamin B complex, and ascorbic acid. The plant parts exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, and anti-cancer activities, according to several research. Additionally, it has been mentioned as a pharmacological agent for liver ailments, diabetes, TB, wound healing, asthma, and blood-related illnesses. Unlike leaves, which have been used as reducing and capping agents by many nanotechnologists in the synthesis of nanoparticles, bimetallic Copper-Zinc nanoparticles were made using leaves as a plant part. Pathogenic pathogens confirmed the presence of bioactive compounds in the plant that had detectable antibacterial activity against bacteria. Since they are believed to be safe for use in food products, copper and zinc nanoparticles are frequently utilized as food additives and packaging. Bimetallic Cu-Zn nanoparticles were shown to exist using UV-Visible spectroscopy and a simple visual color shift. This is the first report of the synthesis of Cu-Zn bimetallic nanoparticles from Ziziphus Mauritiana leaves, and bimetallic have been more in demand than monometallic due to their antimicrobial activity, superior optical and magnetic properties.

Propagation Protocol of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal and Phenotypic Adaptability of Transplanted Seedlings Raised at Various Altitudes

2024-10-14T04:15:53+00:00

Plants in the temperate zone face extreme climate and resource constraints. The purpose of this study was to develop a propagation protocol for a medicinally important plant, Withania somnifera in a temperate climate. Climate change has an impact on plant morphology and reproduction. The phenotypic plasticity of developed seedlings transplanted at various altitudes was investigated. Three replicates of 25 seeds were sterilized with 1-ml L-1 tween 20, 1 g L-1 bavistin, and then treated with organic fertilizer (manure, organic compost, vermicompost, organic compost + vermicompost); inorganic fertilizer (urea, NPK, DAP, NPK+urea, DAP+urea), gibberellic acid (GA, plant growth regulator), and polyethylene glycol (PEG). Phenotypic plasticity was examined in three replicates of seven seedlings from each treatment at altitudes of 400, 900, and 1900 m. Germination parameters such as germination (100%), germination energy (86.67%), and vigour index (543.33) were maximum in seeds treated with gibberellic acid, whereas mean germination time (5.45 days) was minimum. Shoot length (58.77 cm), number of nodes per plant (77.67), and number of leaves per node (4.00) were also exhibited maximum during GA 500 mg L-1 treatment. Transplanted seedlings at high altitude showed a decrease in morphological traits such as shoot length, root length, and leaf area. Reproductive traits such as berries per plant and seeds per berry also decrease in seedlings. This study recommends 500 mg L-1 GA for seed propagation of W. somnifera for temperate regions. The study also concluded that when raising this species at different altitudes, it exhibits variation in morphological and reproductive traits. This ensures that Withania somnifera can grow in different altitudes, undergoing different morphological adaptations.

Assessment of Variability in Stem Girth, Leaf Area, Leaf Thickness, Chlorophyll Content, and Their Correlation in Mango Hybrids

2025-05-17T11:20:34+00:00

The present study investigates the variability in stem girth, leaf area, chlorophyll content (total chlorophyll) and thickness of leaf in mango (Mangifera indica L.) hybrids derived from crosses involving two female parents Ratna and Kesar and five male cultivars: Totapuri (TP), Royal Special (RS), Kent (KN), Banganpalli (BP) and Tommy Atkins (TA). Significant genotypic differences were observed for all the traits evaluated. The hybrid from KS x BP showed maximum median value (35 cm) for stem girth followed by RT x KN and KS x RS (33 cm). For leaf area, hybrids from KS xTA (126.28 cm²) recorded maximum median value of leaf area, while maximum leaf area was recorded in hybrids derived from RT x TP (220.27 cm²). Hybrids KS x KN, RT x KN and KS x TP have median chlorophyll concentrations of 2.32, 2.28 and 2.27 mg/g, respectively. In RT hybrids, the highest median leaf thickness (0.37 mm) was observed in RT x BP which is same as KS hybrids, KS x TP (0.37 mm). Kesar based hybrids generally outperformed for most of the parameters studied. The studies show a strong maternal influence on the hybrids. Further the leaf area appears to be positively and significantly correlated with the girth of the stem. Total chlorophyll and leaf thickness are also positively and significantly correlated, suggesting a positive association for each other. The study highlights the potential of integrating physiological traits like stem girth, leaf area, chlorophyll content and leaf thickness as early selection markers in mango breeding programs. These findings offer a basis for identifying parents and hybrids with enhanced vegetative vigor, with implications for genetic improvement and sustainable mango cultivation.

Genetic Divergence in Rice Genotypes for Grain Micronutrients and Yield

2024-08-13T19:07:45+00:00

The current study aimed to assess the variability, heritability, and genetic diversity of grain characteristics, with a specific emphasis on grain Zinc (Zn) and Iron (Fe) content, across 31 different rice genotypes. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant genotypic differences for all the traits studied. For each trait, the Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV) consistently exceeded the Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV). Most traits demonstrated high heritability (> 60%), except for grain Iron and Zinc content. The number of grains per panicle trait exhibited the highest heritability at 93.20% and showed the greatest genetic advance as a percentage of the mean (52.57%), followed by test weight with a genetic advance of 33.516%. The 31 genotypes were categorized into six distinct clusters using the Euclidean method. The greatest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster V and cluster III (366.88), indicating that genotypes from these clusters with significant differences in cluster means could be valuable for cross-breeding to produce superior recombinants. These genotypes hold potential for breeding programs aimed at improving Zn content alongside higher yield in rice.

Disposal Methods of Clothing Used Globally: A Comparative Review of Developed and Emerging Economies

2025-04-25T07:56:29+00:00

The consumption of clothing in everyday life continues to rise steadily, leading to an increase in clothing waste. The disposal of such waste involves its collection, processing, recycling, or final deposition. Clothing waste is typically solid in nature and varies in composition and source. Its environmental and health impacts depend on the materials involved—some components may be hazardous, while others are relatively benign. The disposal of clothing, particularly through conventional methods, poses significant environmental challenges. This study aims to review existing research on consumer-level clothing disposal practices across various countries, identifying prevalent methods and the factors that influence them. It highlights the dominance of landfilling and incineration in emerging economies, often exacerbated by limited public awareness of sustainable alternatives. Innovative disposal practices such as upcycling and clothing swaps are gaining traction in select regions, notably India and Indonesia. However, the findings underscore a widespread need for increased awareness regarding sustainable clothing disposal. The study advocates for the promotion of eco-friendly garments that facilitate easier end-of-life processing and recommends mandatory awareness initiatives by garment manufacturers to encourage responsible consumer behavior.