Archives Issues
Volume 8, Issue No 4, Dec 2009
Hydrological Impact of a Tidal Regulator on Land and on Water in a Tropical Estuary of Kerala, India
An opportunity to study the effects of artificial structures like tidal regulators on the near-shore environment is provided by the manually operated tidal regulator constructed across a man-made canal in an estuarine environment in the tropical climatic setting of the southern coastal State of Kerala in India. The regulator was constructed across a man-made canal at Pozhikkara in 1957 to control the salt water intrusion into Paravoor Kayal (Kayal = back water or estuary) and to protect a natural estuary. This protection was originally being afforded by a feature locally known as ‘Pozhi’, which is in fact a natural sand bar occurring along the coast separating backwaters from the sea during the summer, but allowing the sea and the backwater to merge by its erosion during the monsoon. This natural sandbar, thus, protected the Paravoor estuary from sea water ingress from the Lakshadweep sea (of the Indian Ocean) during the summer season. When a situation, where the natural sandbar could not protect the estuary and the inland paddy crops from saline water ingress arose, the concept of an artificial tidal regulator was evolved by the farmers of the Ithikara Ela (Ela = paddy field). An artificial canal was constructed 500 m south of the sandbar by cutting the main land, thus, connecting the lake and the sea. Thereby, around 1 sq. km of land was separated from the main land to become an island with 87 houses and 300 inhabitants. During 1985 the performance of the regulator started deteriorating, finally leading to its collapse in 1990. The water levels in the wells, the EC, pH, TH, Ca, Mg, Na, K, CO3, HCO3, SO4 and Cl were determined in this study. The hydrological impacts of this regulator were (i) the hydraulic continuity of the aquifer has been disturbed, (ii) the dug wells, which used to yield fresh water on the separated land mass, became dry within five years of commissioning of the regulator, as the canal became effluent in nature, (iii) the dug wells were consequently deepened and salt water intrusion began and at present more than 25 wells are saline due to salt water intrusion into the freshwater aquifer of the 1 sq km area, (iv) the Paravoor estuary is becoming more saline day-by-day due to the free flow of saline water through the canal, and (v) the Paravoor estuary is getting filled up with ocean sediments during high tides and sand terraces are being formed within the lake. All these are direct outcome of the badly maintained tidal regulator. As a remedial step the spillway shutters should be refitted immediately. This will help protect the deteriorating environment and ecosystem of Paravoor estuary and the adjoining land. Rainwater harvesting is recommended for the polluted wells. The artificial tidal regulator project was implemented without a proper environmental impact assessment. Detailed environmental impact assessment is essential before implementing such schemes in coastal areas at the interface of varied environments, especially like an estuarine one in the tropics.
E. Shaji
Diversity of Oceanic Zooplankton in Andaman Sea
Andaman Sea is partially isolated portion of the northeastern Indian Ocean which lies enclosed between the coast of Burma, Thailand and Malaysia on the east and the chain of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Sumatra Islands of Indonesia on the west. The biomass, density, diversity and distribution of oceanic zooplankton were studied from 10 stations along the continental slope of Andaman Sea during September 10-20, 2008 by onboard research vessel ORV Sagar Manjusha. A total of 96 species of zooplankton belonging to 19 groups and 74 genera were recorded during the study. Copepods were the dominant group at all the stations and their composition of occurrence ranged from 30.39% at station 4 to 44.30% at station 7. The volume of zooplankton ranged between 4.7mL/100m3 and 12.7mL/100m3 at stations 6 and 3 respectively. However, the numerical density of zooplankton along the study area showed minimum as 17300 No./100m3 and maximum as 31620 No./100m3 at these stations. The data pertaining to physicochemical parameters of seawater were also collected and the results discussed.
C. Raghunathan, B. Mehmuna, C. Sivaperuman and R. Kirubagaran
Determinants of Cropping Pattern in the Semi-arid Zone of Southern Tamilnadu, India
Determination of cropping pattern is essential to decide whether the agriculture is subsistence or sustainable. The present study was conducted to find the cropping pattern and its determinants in the semi-arid zone of southern Tamilnadu (Thirumangalam block, Madurai district). The survey was carried out to know the existing agricultural practices and it was correlated with rainfall, temperature, irrigation facility, market prices and socio-economic conditions of the cultivators. The study revealed that sorghum was suitable crop for rainfed area and paddy was appropriate crop for irrigated area. The Olericulture (vegetable cultivation) had market support and provided promising economic profitability for the farmers of this area.
K. Saraswathi and C. Soundarrajan
Heavy Metal Concentration in Surface and Sub Surface Waters Along Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, India
The occurrence of heavy metals in surface and groundwater samples were measured at 8 sampling points along stretches of Tunga, Bhadra and Tungabhadra rivers of Karnataka. Eighteen surface and 33 groundwater samples were collected and the concentrations of 7 heavy metals (cadmium, nickel, lead, iron, manganese, zinc, copper) were measured using Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS). The concentrations of Cd, Ni, Pb and Cu were well below detectable level (BDL) and only Fe, Mn and Zn were detected in both types of water samples. Concentrations of Zn in both the water samples were well within the permissible limit of drinking water standards. The concentration of Fe in 43 and Mn in 33 water samples in the pre-monsoon, and Fe in 31 and Mn in 9 water samples in the post-monsoon seasons exceeded the permissible limit of drinking water standards. The purpose of this study was to identify distribution of the trace metal contaminants in surface and groundwaters along the river stretch, the findings of which would raise significant ecological and public health concerns.
D. Siddaramu, K. Harish Babu, S. Prakash Naik and E.T. Puttaiah
Interpretation of Water Quality Data by Multivariate Statistical Tools: A Study in Mysore District, Karnataka, India
In the management of water resources, variables which control the quality of water, are just as important as its quantity. Hydrochemical assessment of water quality of surface and groundwater for 58 samples was made during postmonsoon of 2007 from strategic locations in Husnur Taluk. Water quality data collected from different localities are used in conjunction with multivariate statistical technique to identify key variables. In surface, four components were extracted which account for 84.46% of the total variance. The first component shows that the EC and TDS play an important role in the hydrochemical constituents of the surface water. In groundwater samples, 5 components were extracted, which account for 95 % of the total variance. The maximum number of variables, i.e., Na, Cl, SO4, TDS and EC were characterized by the first component and show that the hydrochemical constituents of groundwater are mainly controlled by the first component. The ‘single dominance’ nature fourth and fifth components in PCA indicate non-mixing or partial mixing of different types of groundwaters. The findings of the cluster analysis are presented in the form of dendogram of the sampling stations (cases) which produced three major groups.
Nilufer Arshad and G. S. Gopalakrishna
Biomodification of Coal Fly Ash by Eichhornia with Respect to Improvement in Physicochemical Properties for Cultivation of Wheat
Pot and field experiments were conducted to study the effect of levels of coal fly ash (CFA) on physicochemical properties of soil, CFA amended soil and the yield parameters of wheat. The objective of the experiment was to initiate a reaction between the constituents of soil and CFA to upgrade the quality of soil to make it suitable for the cultivation of wheat. Physicochemical studies have been carried out for different composts obtained by successive replacement of CFA for soil in constituents of original and reference composts. Water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes) was used as organic manure. Physicochemical analysis was conducted after the harvest of wheat. CFA, a byproduct of Kota Super Thermal Power Station, was used. Increase in rate of growth and improvement in quality of produce was observed with the increase in percentage of CFA up to 40%. A study of graded level of CFA amended soils revealed an increase in the content of micro and macronutrients.
Krishna Rani and S. Kalpana
Screening of Potential Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Isolates for Costus speciosus, a Medicinal Plant in Unsterile Soil
Selection of an efficient Arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) species for inoculum production is an important step towards adapting mycorrhizal inoculum technology in crop production. In this direction six indigenous AM species were screened, isolated, identified and cultured on two promising host plants of maize and Johnson grass. When host plant had optimum AMF colonization with respective AMF species; Glomus intraradices, Glomus fasciculatum, Glomus microcarpum, Glomus mosseae, Gigaspora margarita and Sclerocystis dussii were inoculated to Costus speciosus sm in unsterilized soil. Overall result revealed that Sclerocystis dussii was most efficient AM Fungus to Costus speciosus sm, a medicinal shrub. There was significant increase in plant height, leaf length, leaf number, total chlorophyll content in leaves and increased stem tubers length, tuber diameter and phosphorus content as compared to control uninoculated plants. However, this enhanced growth response was influenced by other promising AMF species, Glomus fasciculatum and Gigaspora margarita. The underground stem tubers and their phosphorus content increased with the inoculation of Sclerocystis dussii followed by Glomus mosseae and Glomus microcarpum. Therefore, an efficient indigenous Sclerocystis dussii may be made to inoculate on Costus speciosus sm tuber cuttings in an unsterilized soil to get healthy seedling stock.
Pushpa K. Kavatagi and H. C. Lakshman
Pollution Control in Multi-Cylinder S.I. Engines Using Metal Oxide Pellets
Internal combustion engines generate undesirable emissions during the combustion process. The emissions exhausted into surroundings not only pollute atmosphere but remains harmful to human beings. The emissions are mainly CO, HC, NOx, CO2, etc. The major causes of the emissions of pollutants are non-stoichiometric combustion, oxidation and reduction of nitrogen and the impurities in the fuel and air. Several approaches to control the emissions are being pursued like post-treatment of exhaust gases and in-cylinder combustion control, etc. Thermal or catalytic converters and particulate traps are used in case of post-treatment of exhaust gases. In the present investigation, an attempt has been made to control the engine exhaust emissions by using metal oxide pellet catalytic convertors. The pellets are being made by using special die and Compression Testing Machine (CTM). The results obtained from the experiments using the pellets of ferric oxide, magnesium oxide, cobalt oxide, and the combination of these were analysed. The emission control achieved by adopting this technique was found effective.
K. Parthiban and K. Jeyachandran
Assessment of Groundwater Quality in and Around Bellary City of Karnataka, India
The quality of groundwater in and around Bellary city of Karnataka has been studied. Various parameters, viz., turbidity, pH, electrical conductance, total hardness, total alkalinity, total dissolved solids, chloride, carbonate, bicarbonate, fluoride, sulphate, nitrate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, zinc, manganese and coliform bacteria have been determined to evaluate its suitability for domestic and irrigation applications. The higher values of certain parameters at various locations indicate the influence of geological formation and infiltration making the water unsuitable for domestic applications. The values of sodium adsorption ratio indicate that majority of samples fall under the category of low to medium sodium hazards. The groundwater of the study area has also been classified on the basis of Piper trilinear and US Salinity Classification schemes. The presence of E. coli in six samples indicates dangerous faecal contamination, which require immediate attention.
T. Suresh, N. M. Kottureshwara and M. Revanasiddappa
Hydrogeochemical Studies by Multivariate Statistical Analysis in Upper Thirumanimuthar Sub-basin, Cauvery River, Tamil Nadu, India
In the present paper deals with the study of hydrogeochemistry of groundwater by multivariate statistical techniques such as factor and cluster analyses. The upper Thirumanimuthar sub-basin, Cauvery River, hard rock terrain in Salem District covering an area of about 346.40 km2 has been selected for the study. Fifty one samples were collected during premonsoon season 2007 and analysed for various water quality parameters like pH, EC, TDS, Ca, Mg, Na, K, HCO3, CO3, SO4, Cl and TH. Hydrogeochemical data of 51 groundwater samples were subjected to Q- and R- mode factor and cluster analysis. R-mode analysis reveals the interrelations among the variables studied and the Q-mode analysis reveals the interrelations among the samples studied. The R-mode factor analysis shows that Na and CI with HCO3 account for most of the electrical conductivity and total dissolved solids of the groundwater. The ‘single dominance’ nature of the majority of the factors in the R-mode analysis indicates non-mixing or partial mixing of different types of groundwaters. Both Q-mode factor and R-mode cluster analyses show that there is an exchange between the river water and adjacent groundwater. Cluster classification map reveals that 97.79% of the study area comes under cluster I classification.
M. Suresh, B. Gurugnanam, S. Vasudevan, B. Rajeshkanna, K. Dharanirajan and N. Prabhakaran
Decolourisation of Reactive Black 5 Dye by a White Rot Fungi Trametes versicolor
Azo dyes represent the largest class of organic colourants listed in the Colour Index (60-70%) and makeup vast majority of the dyes discharged by textile industry. Due to high cost, low efficiency and inapplicability of several physico-chemical decolourisation techniques, biological processes such as the use of white-rot fungi provide an alternative to this problem. In the present work, ability of Trametes versicolor to decolourise an azo dye viz., Reactive Black 5 was evaluated under shaker conditions by statically grown culture using different sources of carbon and nitrogen. At the end of the 8 hours, Reactive Black 5 was decolourised to an extent of 25.12% in the medium containing glucose. The nitrogen source that supported the highest decolourisation (62.93%) of the dye at the end of 24 hours was yeast extract. Further optimization was carried out by the Orthogonal Array design for the optimization of the medium and to determine the effect of glucose, yeast extract and copper sulphate on the dye decolourisation. The data were analysed using Minitab software 15.
Varsha K. Vaidya and Ati S. Anand
Vegetation and Floristic Analysis of Forest of Toranmal and Environs of the Satpuda Ranges
Four types of spatial vegetation distribution patterns have been found in the two qualitative forest types in the study area. The soil characteristics, topographic features, increased human activities and availability of water have influence on the formation of these vegetation and forest types and the dominance of certain plant species. Satellite images, aerial photographs and field observations interpretations indicated changing of the vegetation and land-use pattern nearby the human settlements. These changes are artificial and made by inhabitants for their survival. Floristic analyses lead to an identification of 109 families, 386 genera and 539 plant species belonging to angiopsermic, pteridophytic and bryophytic plant groups. 376 plant species showed varied potential in them, and such plant species are seen to be exploited at a larger scale. Most of them have been locally threatened and become conservation dependent.
S. A. Khairnar and Dnyan Patil
Nutritional Status and Energy Content of a Freshwater Spiny Eel, Mastacembelus armatus During Reproductive Cycle
The nutritional and energy content in form of the protein glycogen and fat along with moisture content of muscle, liver and ovary were examined with respect to reproductive cycle in female Mastacembelus armatus. In the muscle and liver the content of protein glycogen and lipid were found highest in the resting phase compared to the other phase. On the other hand these were found high in ovary in the spawning phase compared to the other phase. Similarly the energy content of the muscle and liver was also found high in resting phase than the other phases. The energy content of ovary was found highest during spawning season in comparison to the other phases of reproductive cycle. A decline of the nutrients in the muscle and liver during the spawning phase is observed, which may be attributed to less feeding during this period and diversion of body reservoirs to the gonads development during spawning phase.
S. D. Ahirrao
Environmental Awareness Among School Students: A Case Study of Nanded City, Maharashtra
Environmental education creates an overall perspective, which acknowledges the fact that natural environment and man-made environment are interdependent. Environmental education should consider the environment in its totality and should be a continuous lifelong process beginning at the school level and continuing through all stages because the best way to attempt to bring about a change in the attitude in the society is through children. With this realization the present study assesses the status of environmental awareness, impact of environmental teaching programmes and the need for environmental education among school students of Nanded city, Maharashtra. Lack of environmental awareness among the students was observed. It is unequivocally demonstrated that environmental education is essential among these students to increase the awareness about the environmental issues.
Anand R. Ashturkar, Sudhir V. Shivanikar and Prabhakar N. Wavde
Parthenium hysterophorus Induced Genotoxic Hazards in Allium cepa L.
The paper deals with allelopathic effect of Parthenium hysterophorus L. extract on the meristametic cells of onion (Allium cepa L.). The root tips of onion were treated with different concentrations (10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) of Parthenium extract for 4 hrs at room temperature. The Parthenium extract was prepared from plant parts such as leaf, stem, inflorescence and whole plant and the treated root tips were squashed in freshly prepared 2% acetocarmine solution. The results revealed that Parthenium extract exerts mitotic depression causing chromosomal abnormalities such as fragments, stickiness, nuclear vacuolation, bridge, laggards and micronuclei. The mitotic abnormalities were gradually increased with increasing concentration of the extract. Percentage of abnormal cells varied from 9.58 (10% Parthenium stem) to 40.59 (100% Parthenium inflorescence). The gradation of genotoxicity of different parts of Parthenium were noted as inflorescence > whole plant > leaf > stem. Parthenium may be considered as a strong genotoxic agent. The suppression of DNA content due to the application of Parthenium is another potential threat to the genomic balance which may cause the deviation of normal metabolic activities from its original parental line.
Vishnu Shankar Sinha
Inhibition Effect of Eco-friendly Extract of Euphorbia hirta on Dissolution of Mild Steel in Hydrochoric Acid Medium
The influence of the addition of acid extract of Euphorbia hirta on the corrosion of mild steel in 1M HCL was studied by weight loss measurement. The inhibition efficiency increases with extract concentration and immersion period. The effect of temperature studied indicated that inhibition efficiency increased with temperature. The negative value of the free energy of adsorption indicates spontaneous adsorption. The inhibitor obeys Temkin adsorption isotherm. The inhibition activity is due to the adsorption of active components which are found in the Euphorbia hirta extract.
P.K. Kasthuri and A. Arulanantham
Avifauna Along Krishna River Near Sangli City, Maharashtra
River Krishna passes through Sangli city with a spread of about 5-7 kms. distance with adjoining villages like Padmale, Sangliwadi and Haripur. This area is very much suitable for number of local and migratory birds. The birds are warm blooded vertebrates able to survive in great climatic extremes than other animals. The present paper deals with the biodiversity of local avian fauna. The study was carried out during May 2004 to April 2006. In the present investigation 99 different species of birds from this area were recorded. The data explain that the 99 species belong to 14 Orders and 36 Families. The adjoining area has agricultural fields as well as water logged soil with marshy habitat. This area shows plant species like Typha latifolia, Cyperus rotundus, Cynodon dactylon and many other members of Cyperaceae and Poaceae. Similarly some common shrubs and trees are also observed. Due to presence of marshy land and plants, the birds get natural environment for settlement. Maximum number of birds were observed during winter followed by rainy and summer season. The species of birds like egrets, doves, crows and sparrows are common in occurrence. The migratory species like ducks, wagtails, stilts, plovers, etc. are also recorded.
Sanjay M. Kumbhar, Sanjay S. Sathe and Sharad D. Apte
Polysaccharides, Proteins and Lipids from Basidiomycetous Fungi
Fruiting bodies of 40 Basidiomycetes species were screened for the presence of polysaccharides, proteins and lipids. Maximum amounts were observed in Fomes fomentarious (187.2 mg/g), Grifola berkely (265.4 mg/g) and Strobilomyces sp. (4.1 mg/g) respectively. High amounts of polysaccharides and proteins are recorded in six species and lipids in nine species. The study forms the basis for selection of potent species of medicinal importance.
J. Vinaya Sagar Goud, Kandukuri Vasu and M. A. Singara Charya
A Study on Municipal Solid Waste Management in Bongaigaon, Assam
Bongaigaon Municipality with an area of 14.31 square kilometre, consisting of 25 wards, is situated in the western part of Assam in India. Bongaigaon town, the district headquarters of Bongaigaon district is a commercial as well as an industrial area. Solid waste management in this area is a challenging task. The present study includes all types of solid wastes other than biomedical waste, generated in the Bongaigaon Municipality area and their management. One kilogram sample was prepared by mixing solid wastes collected from different kinds of sources in the Municipality area. The constituents of the sample were characterized and percentage of each of them was determined. Secondary data related to solid waste and its management were collected from the Municipal authorities. The area generates around 25 tons of solid waste per day with 0.355 kg rate of waste generation per person per day. However, only 21 tons of solid waste is collected for disposal by the civic body. Again, out of around 25 tons of solid waste generated, 44% was found to be biodegradable while the rest was nonbiodegradable.
M. N. Thakuria
Screening of Some Market and Home-Made Pickles for Their Genotoxicity
In the present paper 25 different types of market, home and laboratory made mango (Mangifera indica) pickle samples were tested for their possible genotoxicity owing to widespread adulteration in market pickles with chemical preservatives, colouring agents and low quality ingredients. Mutagenicity and antimutagenicity tests were performed using Ames’ test and using standard chemical mutagens (aminopyrene, sodium azide and nitrosoguanidine). The 66.7% of packed market pickles showed positive antimutagenicity test; and 33.3% positive antimutangenicity test. 100% loosely sold pickles showed mutagenicity test positive and antimutagenicity test negative. Among home-made pickles, 60% showed antimutagenicity test positive, and 40% mutagenicity test positive. The laboratory-made pickles showed negative mutagenicity test and positive antimutagenicity test in all the pickles. The primary findings about the quality of pickles consumed by vast population showed that they are of poor chemical quality and alarming at their potential genotoxicity. On the contrary, the laboratory-made pickles prepared without any chemical preservatives and chemical colourants, and with selective quality ingredients and selective microbial culture mix showed that all the samples have antimutagenicity test positive and mutagenicity test negative.
S. A. Salunkhe and G. R. Pathade
Bioaccumulation of Aluminium in Selected Tissues of Zebra Fish Brachydanio rerio (Ham.)
The aim of the study was to investigate the bioaccumulation of aluminium in tissues such as gill, liver, muscle and brain, and possibility to use these organs as quantitative bioindicators in polluted aquatic environment. Therefore, the experiment has been designed to provide conditions as close as possible to those found in nature. For this, two sublethal concentrations of aluminium were selected and the fish were exposed for a period of 7, 14, 21 and 28 days. The pattern of accumulation varied significantly among fish organs (liver > gill > muscle). In brain the accumulation was below the detection limit. The study showed that the bioaccumulation rate depends on concentration of the toxicant and length of the exposure period.
R. Anandhan and S. Hemalatha
Assessment of Water Quality for Aquaculture - A Case Study of Madhavara Lake in Bangalore
Periodical physicochemical analysis of Madhavara lake, a freshwater body, in Bangalore, was carried out from July, 2005 to June, 2006. Water quality for aquaculture was estimated with the parameters such as temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen (DO), biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), chemical oxygen demand (COD), chlorides, hardness, nitrate, phosphate, sulphate and ammonical nitrogen. Results indicate severe deterioration of the water quality in this lake. The study suggests the water quality of Madhavara lake to be highly polluted, and hence, unfit for aquaculture.
Ch. Debala Devi and D. Usha Anandhi
Analysis of Some Heavy Metals from Fruits of Medicinal Plants Phyllanthus emblica, Terminalia bellirica and Terminalia chebula From India and Nepal by ICP-OES Technique
Heavy metals as environmental contaminants of terrestrial ecosystems is not a recent phenomenon. As certain plants have a tendency of storing heavy metals from soils, polluted water and atmosphere, heavy metals are a matter of concern in the herbal drugs. Therefore, test for heavy metals is essential for herbal medicines. Fruits of Amalaki (Phyllanthus emblica Linn.), Bibhitaki (Terminalia bellirica (Gaertn.) Roxb. and Haritaki (Terminalia chebula Retz.) are used individually or in combination as Triphala in number of formulations. Triphala and its constituents act as cardio-tonic, control blood pressure, improve blood circulation and reduce cholesterol levels. Because of such wide use of these fruits in various herbal formulations, it is necessary to analyse at least common heavy metals from the raw materials before they can be processed further. To meet the heavy demand for this raw material and due to the easy accessibility, some supply also comes from neighbouring countries like Nepal and Bhutan. In the present paper fruits of Amalaki, Bibhitaki and Haritaki procured from India (Karjat) and Nepal (Baghlongh) were analysed for five heavy metals Cu, Zn, Pb and Hg by Optical Emission Spectroscopy, which uses the technique of inductively coupled plasma. There was a significant variation in the heavy metal content of fruits collected from India and Nepal.
Ambika Sharma and Sunita Shailajan
Acute Toxicity of a Pesticide Cidial to an Exotic Fish Tilapia mossambica
Investigation on the toxic effects of a pesticide cidial on an exotic fish Tilapia mossambica at 22 ± 0.15°C was made. Toxicity tests were carried out to estimate LC0, LC50 and LC100 values of cidial by exposing the fish for different durations. Six ppm of the pesticide formed LC50/96 hrs, whereas 1.5 ppm and 8 ppm represented LC0 and LC100/96 hrs values respectively. Some remarkable changes in behavioural response of the fish in the toxic media were also observed such as hyperexcitability, abnormal changes in position, rapid opercular movement, frequent jumping, loss of equilibrium, etc. and finally death, showing acute toxic nature of the pesticide.
Parnita Kumari
Biodiversity in Wild Fauna of North Sahyadri in Nashik District, Maharashtra
Forests play an important role in the life and economy of any country. The moist and dry tropical deciduous forests provide natural and varied ecological habitats for the varied fauna. Nashik district is one of the northern part of Sahyadri in Maharashtra. On the basis of ecological aspects a scientific study has been carried out with respect to wild animal biodiversity in Nashik region. The present investigation was done to enlist, identify and number of different species of mammals, reptiles and birds. The moist and dry deciduous forests of north Sahyadri lead to a better natural habitat for wildlife.
D. N. Khairnar
Ecological Analysis of Some Woody Species of Mine Affected Areas of North-West Himalayas
The phytosociological analysis of woody species of the mine affected areas of north-western Himalayas at two sites, supporting three tree species, Cedrus deodara, Pinus roxburghii and Quercus leucotrichophora, indicated that the total basal cover varied from 925.03 to 4149.40 cm2 per 100m2, and density from 0.5 to 1.8 trees per 100m2. The distribution pattern was random for most of the species.
Pramod Kumar, R. M. Singhal and N. K. Bohra
Effect of a Biocide on Different Stages of Mosquito, Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)
Plant products are capable of producing multiple effects in insects such as antifeedancy, growth regulation, fecundity suppression, sterilization, etc. Synthetic pesticides lead to serious problems like environmental pollution, health hazards and insect resistance to insecticides. Study of egg, larvae and pupae affected by the testing of different concentrations of some biocide showed an increased mortality over the control. The results have been discussed in the light of biopesticides as good alternative for the synthetic pesticides used in mosquito control.
K. Sithara, K. Kamalaveni and A. Sharon Rose Susannah
Synergistic Effect of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi and Rhizobium Inoculation on Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. in Unsterile Soil
Dalbergia sissoo Roxb. has been attributed as a desirable leguminous species used in regulating the distributed lands and improving deteriorated waste lands in India. Dalbergia sissoo seedlings were grown in earthen pots containing unsterilized soil inoculated with Glomus fasiculatum, Rhizobium or a combination of symbionts. After 120 days of growth, plant height, dry weight, root dry weight, percent mycorrhizal colonization, nitrogen and phosphorus contents were quantified. Plant with either a combination of mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium grew taller and produced higher dry matter of root and shoot than infected with Rhizobium species alone or control plants. Presence of Rhizobium increased nitrogen content of the above ground plant. Foliage and inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi increased the phosphorus content. Mycorrhizal fungi and Rhizobium were found to be synergistic with respect to nitrogen fixation and per cent of root colonization.
Romana M. Mirdhe and H.C. Lakshman
Natural Farming in Harmony with the Sustainable Ecosystem
The concept of sustainable agriculture serves a broad range of needs at the local level and is highly important for the quality of life. Agriculture systems purposefully disrupt natural systems, in an ecological sense, through patterns of human intervention. The increased consumption pattern of chemical fertilizers and chemical pesticides has led to changes in physicochemical and biological properties of soil. The chemical farming system has led to considerable loss of soil organic matter showing 0.66% when compared to natural farm soil, which shows 2.7% of organic matter. 86 mg/kg of heavy metals like chromium was detected in chemical farming, which is detrimental to the growth and development of plants.
N. Nandini, B. S. Anupama and S. Pavithra
Fluoride and Environment - An Overview
Presence of excess fluoride in water causes health hazards to humans and animals. Presence of fluoride in exceeding limits and its related problems to drinking water prevailing in many parts of India are well presented. Like any other pollutant, fluoride pollution can also occur due to, both natural and man-made sources. Fluoride in drinking water is known for both beneficial in detrimental effects on human health. Many solutions to solve fluoride problems have been recommended. Fluoride from water or wastewater can be removed by precipitation, adsorption and ion exchange methods. The ion exchange/adsorption process can be applied for fluoride removal under certain conditions. The method amenable for a given condition needs to be carefully selected keeping various aspects in mind. The paper presents the current knowledge of fluoride in environment including chemistry of fluoride, fluorides in the Indian scenario, effects of fluoride, and available methods of defluoridation.
S. R. Lakshmi Prasad, V. Venkateswara Reddy and N. Kumara Swamy
Effects of Protein Industry Effluent on the Seed Germination, Seedling Growth and Photosynthetic Pigment of Blackgram (Vigna mungo L. Var. 9)
The effect of different concentrations of protein industry effluent on seed germination, seedling growth and pigment content of blackgram has been studied in the laboratory conditions. The germination percentage, seedling growth, fresh weight and dry weight of seedlings, and photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophyll and carotenoid were found to be retarded with increase of effluent concentration. However, the effluent at lower concentration of 5% promoted these growth parameters. No germination was recorded at 75 and 100 percent effluent.
P. Sundaramoorthy, R. Balamurugan and D. Ramamoorthy
Lead, Fluoride and Iron Contaminants in Drinking Water of North Bihar (Katihar) and Their Impact on Human Health
Katihar district in is an important industrial town of North Bihar, situated on 87°4’ E longitude and 25°3’ N latitude. The source of drinking water in this district is mainly hand pumps. The water of this district may be categorised under “hard water”. Its lead concentration was recorded in the range of 0.112mg/L to 4.91mg/L, while fluoride and Fe3+ were recorded in the range of 0.004-0.012 and 0.40-1.27 mg/L respectively. The high value of lead in drinking water of Katihar is responsible for kidney damage, neuro problems, and mental retardation in children. The low fluoride in the drinking water is responsible for large number of dental carries patients while very high value of iron in drinking water is responsible for colouring of teeth, clothes and potteries. In major portions of Katihar, the people have golden coloured teeth due to deposition of iron on the enamel of the teeth.
Uday Krishna, Sanjiv Kumar Singh and T. N. Mandal
Studies on Controlled Release of Fertilizer Zinc Sulphate Made with Super Phosphate as Inert Matrix
The paper presents controlled release of zinc sulphate fertilizer made with super phosphate as inert matrix. Pellets were made from the mixture and the release rate of zinc sulphate with time was studied. The parameters covered are fractional zinc sulphate, fractional silicate lime, fractional super phosphate and diameter of the pellet. The parameters also measured with naphthalene coating pellets and compared. The release rate expression was obtained and represented as: -rA = 5.85 fZnSO41.9 fs4.23 fsl-0.72 (dp/ds)1.2. The study is useful to identify the controlled release of zinc sulphate fertilizer and also to predict the release rate at any instant of time.
N. Rakesh, D. Kamalakar, P. Kalpana and P. Rajendra Prasad
Effect of Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) on Heavy Metal Mobility in Soils
Dissolved organic carbon plays an important role in both carbon cycling and chemistry of soils, through its influence on acidity, nutrient availability, metal toxicity and transport. Addition of biological waste materials such as sewage sludge, poultry and animal manures increases the amount of DOC in soils. The effect of DOC on heavy metal mobility was well recognized in this study. In organic matter rich soils, solubilization of organic matter leads to production of more amount of DOC which combines with heavy metals in soils and, thus, causes contamination to groundwater. The organic acids present in the DOC can act as chelating agents and enhance the mobilization of toxic heavy metals. In another way, it is beneficial that the toxic heavy metals are mobilized away from the root zone, thus, preventing accumulation of heavy metals in usable parts of the plants.
T. Sherene
Utility Value of Moringa oleifera and Its Biomass Productivity When Cultivated as Shrub Under Different Tree Environments
A combination of shrubland and grass species as animal feed is vital and can not be set-aside, since large areas are unsuited for crops but still can be used, justifiably to support “fodder produce” may be of poor quality. Obviously, there exists no strategy for determining what contributions are desirable from shrubland species when associated with grasses as source of quality biomass. Wasteland utilization be focused on productivity, its establishment and efficient maintenance under existing conditions. An experiment conducted for three years confirms that high biomass, dry matter and crude protein yields can be recovered by the combination of Moringa oleifera under varying tree environments thereby confirming that the land x shrub species culturing are inseparable from each other.
R. Y. Kulkarni and D. V. Dev
Heavy Metal Contamination of Vegetables and Fruits from Bangalore City
Samples of fruits (grape, pomegranate, orange, banana, lemon, pear, apple, sapota, mango and guava), and vegetables (brinjal, cucumber, tomato, capsicum, cauliflower, bean, radish, carrot, bottle gourd, chilly, root beet, onions, potatoes, lady’s finger, cabbage, garlic) were procured from the Bangalore city markets during the period from May through November 2007 with the objective of determining their heavy metals composition viz., lead, zinc, cadmium, copper, cobalt, chromium, iron, manganese and nickel. The samples were digested and analysed for heavy metals using flame atomic absorption spectrophotometer. The results showed that urban consumers are at greater risk of getting exposed to heavy metals through fresh vegetables and fruits because of higher levels of heavy metals beyond the legally permissible limits as defined by FAO/WHO. The results indicated the order of abundance of heavy metals in fresh vegetables samples as Fe > Mn > Pb > Co > Cu > Zn > Ni > Cr > Cd, and in fruits as Fe > Cr > Mn > Pb > Ni > Co > Zn > Cu > Cd.
S. E. Mahdavian and R. K. Somashekar
Probable Downstream Impacts of 2000 MW Lower Subansiri Dam in Arunachal Pradesh of North East India
Downstream of River Subansiri showed a biologically controlled healthy ecosystem along with riparian zones and catchment forests which are hot spots of species before the hydel projects were undertaken. This important natural corridor for the energy flow, nutrient cycling and species diversity would certainly be altered due to the construction of 2000 MW lower Subansiri dam in three orders viz., first order impact (hydrology) through alteration in the flow regime, discharge control resulting from damming of river, reduced flow variability and total volume of runoff, and water quality (physical, chemical and biological changes). Second order impacts through changes in sediment transport, floodplain morphology, river water turbidity affecting the biota directly, alteration in primary production (plankton, riparian vegetation), and the third order impact through the habitat degradation due to changes in flow regime, water quality, loss of breeding-ground for threatened fishes like Tor tor, Tor putitora, fish diversity, fishery production, creating barrier for upstream and downstream migratory fishes as well as endangered aquatic mammal Platanista gangetica, loss of genetic diversity of indigenous deep water rice varieties as well as important native species and thereby affecting the food production capacity and livelihood security of the people who depend on the downstream.
Debojit Baruah, Lakhi Prasad Hazarika and Ranjit Dutta
Study of Well Waters in the Area Around Paper Mill Industry, Udumalpet, Tamilnadu
Samples of well waters in the area around a paper mill industry situated at Udumalpet, Tamil Nadu were collected and analysed for physicochemical characteristics to assess the water quality during the period of six months of pre-monsoon season (June-November 2008). The data show that the quality of groundwater is grossly polluted and not suitable for drinking and irrigation purposes due to presence of high solids and electrical conductivity.
S. Binu Kumari, K. Priyatharshini, M. P. Julie and M. Manimegalai
Bioconversion of Mango Waste Blended with Poultry Waste and Cow Dung into Useful Manure by Aerobic Composting
Solid waste can be disposed off either by diluting or by making it into useful manure. Since most of the land, water and atmosphere have been polluted largely, the only way to prevent pollution is to make the waste into a useful product. The present study investigates feasibility of blending the fruit waste (mango waste) with poultry waste and cow dung to produce a value added compost. Mango waste usually creates nuisance when compared to other fruit and vegetable waste as it gives foul smell. To achieve good composting mango waste was blended with poultry waste and cow dung at six different weight proportions. Chemical properties of compost like pH, nitrogen, carbon, phosphorus and potassium were observed at different periods, i.e., on the days 1, 21 and 35. Finally, the carbon to nitrogen ratio was compared with all the five samples to identify the best compost. The samples with ratio 1:1:1 and 2:1:1 without mango seeds were considered to be more reliable and efficient to be used as compost.
N. Lakshminarasimaiah, T. Meenambal, Lakshmi Priya Thyagarajan, N. Ramesh
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