Browsing by Author "Anitha, P"

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Breeding for resistance to fruit fly (Zeugodacus spp.) in oriental pickling melon (Cucumis melo(L.)var.conomon Mak.)
(Department of Vegetable Science,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2020) Silpa Ramachandran; Anitha, P
Characterization and evaluation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) accessions for yield and quality
(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture,Vellanikkara, 2019) Anitta Judy Kurian; Anitha, P
Drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.), belonging to the family Moringaceae is one of the most useful tree with a variety of potential uses. Large variability exists in drumstick since the crop is cross pollinated and naturalized in many areas. The study entitled “Characterization and evaluation of drumstick (Moringa oleifera Lam.) accessions for yield and quality’’ was conducted during January to December 2018. Twenty five accessions were catalogued based on IPGRI minimal descriptors (2013). Data on morphological, quantitative and biochemical characters were recorded for one calendar year (2018) for further analysis. Tree shape varied from upright to spreading. Grey coloured barks were recorded in majority of accessions except in VKMo 3, VKMo 4 and VKMo 8 which had white bark colour. All accessions produced pale green coloured young shoots with purple tinge. Foliage density at flowering period varied from sparse, medium to dense. Leaflet shape varied from ovate, oblong to elliptical and leaf apex from obtuse to acute. Both secondary and tertiary flowering branchlets were observed. Flowers produced in all the accessions had triangular shaped, polysepalous nature, pale green coloured calyx; corolla having triangular shape, polypetalous nature and cream colour. Fresh fruit pulp colour was white in all accessions. Taste of fresh fruit pulp was palatable in all flowering types except VKMo 3, VKMo 6, VKMo 11, VKMo 13 and VKMo 29, which were bitter in taste. Out of twenty five accessions, three were leafy types viz. VKMo 32, VKMo 35 and VKMo 38. Two peaks of flowering viz. January- April and September- November were observed in VKMo 2, VKMo 7, VKMo 12, VKMo 15, VKMo 16 and VKMo 17. Accession VKMo 3 recorded highest tree height (7.68 m) and trunk girth (65.8 cm). Accession VKMo 10 recorded highest fruit length (89.50 cm), fruit girth (6.72 cm) and number of ridges/fruit (10.50). Highest fruit weight was recorded in VKMo 9 (160.00 g). Accession VKMo 6 recorded highest number of seeds per fruit (21.20). Highest number of fruits/tree was recorded in VKMo 2 (22.21) and total fruit yield/tree in VKMo 3 (1775.54 g/tree). Estimation of biochemical characters in leaves, flowers and fruits revealed that leaves are rich sources of these biochemical characters followed by flowers and fruits, except for iron. Highest iron content was recorded in flowers, followed by leaves and fruits. Significant, positive correlation was observed between fruit yield per tree and fruit weight (0.613); fruit yield per tree and number of fruits per tree (0.896). Significant positive correlation was recorded between protein and beta-carotene (0.424); beta-carotene and phenol (0.462); protein and phenol (0.466). Significant, positive correlation was observed for beta-carotene content with rainfall (0.640) and number of rainy days (0.603). Calcium content showed a significant, positive correlation with mean temperature (0.585). Trunk girth (0.0266), fruit length (0.029), tree height (0.074), number of seeds per fruit (0.195), fruit weight (0.639) and number of fruits per tree (0.977) exhibited direct positive effect on yield. Principal component analysis for the quantitative characters revealed that, first three principal components accounted for 88.1 per cent of the total variation and was contributed by number of seeds per fruit, fruit girth, trunk girth and tree height. Clustering of the accessions resulted in formation of five clusters. Principal component analysis on biochemical characters revealed that, first two principal components accounted for 64 per cent variance and was contributed by iron, calcium, protein and vitamin C. Clustering of the accessions resulted in formation of six clusters. Overall ranking of drumstick accessions for important quantitative and biochemical characters revealed that the performance of accession VKMo 7 (87) was superior followed by accession VKMo 9 (91). Organoleptic evaluation revealed that accession VKMo 29 ranked superior for overall acceptability. Incidence of leaf eating caterpillar (Noorda blitealis) on drumstick accessions showed that seven accessions viz. VKMo 5, VKMo 11, VKMo 17, VKMo 30, VKMo 35, VKMo 36 and VKMo 38 possess tolerance to leaf eating caterpillar.
Crude fibre utilization and nutrient availability in indigenous layer ducks
(Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Mannuthy, 2006) Anitha, P; Jalaludeen, A
Dietary supplementation of turmeric (Curcuma longa) and tulasi (Ocimum sanctum) in layer quails (Coturnix coturnix)
(Department Of Poultry Sciences,College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2008) Bhadra, P V; Anitha, P
An experiment was carried out to study the effect of dietary supplementation of turmeric and tulasi on production performance of Japanese quail layers. One hundred and sixty Japanese quails at 6 weeks of age were allocated randomly to four dietary groups with four replicates of ten quails each. Quail layer ration containing 22 per cent crude protein and 2650 kcal ME per kg feed formed the control diet T1. The control diet supplemented with dried turmeric rhizome powder, dried tulasi leaves and a combination of both each at 0.3 per cent level formed the diets T2, T3 and T4, respectively. The experiment was carried out for five periods of 28 days each from 7 to 26 weeks of age. The body weight at 6 and 26 weeks of age and the body weight gain during experimental period did not differ significantly between dietary treatments. Even though the age at first egg in the flock in dietary groups T1, T2, T3 and T4 was 48, 50, 49 and 49 days respectively, the mean age at 50 per cent production were almost similar in all dietary groups. The results obtained in the study revealed that period wise and cumulative mean values of quail housed and quail day egg number and per cent production, egg mass, daily feed consumption, FCR per dozen eggs and per kg egg mass did not differ significantly between dietary groups. The overall mean egg weight for three consecutive days towards the end of 10,14, 18, 22 and 26 weeks of age were non significant. Statistical analysis of the data pertaining to dressed, eviscerated, giblet and ready-to-cook yields revealed no significant difference between dietary groups. The loss of blood in dietary groups were significantly (P≤0.05) higher in group in T1 in comparison with group T4. While the mean values of feather loss showed no significant difference. The dietary supplementation of turmeric and tulasi combination (T4) significantly improved the haemoglobin and total leucocyte count in comparison with the control group whereas total erythrocyte count revealed no significant difference. The mean values of total cholesterol in serum differed significantly among each other (P≤0.05). Egg yolk cholesterol in group T3 and T4 showed significantly lower values in comparison with T1 (P≤0.05). Serum protein level in various dietary groups did not differ significantly among each other. The overall livability per cent was not adversely affected in turmeric and tulasi fed quails. The cost of feed per egg was lower in T2 and T3 (Rs. 0.43) compared to T1 (Rs. 0.47) and was intermediary in T4 (Rs. 0.45). The critical evaluation of the results revealed that the supplementation of dried turmeric and tulasi leaves separately and in combination, each at 0.3 per cent level in quail layer diets resulted in numerical increase in egg production leading to economical advantages.
Effect of dietary supplementation of turmeric (Curcuma longa ) on production performance of broiler chicken
(Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 2007) Simi, G; Anitha, P
An experiment was conducted at the Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy to study the effect of dietary supplementation of turmeric (Curcuma longa) on performance of broiler chicken. One hundred and ninety two, day-old commercial broiler chicks (Vencob) were reared under four dietary groups with four replicates of twelve birds each. The group Ti was the control group and turmeric powder was supplemented in the basal diet at 0.2 per cent (T2), 0.4 per cent (T3) and 0.6 per cent (T4). The chicks were reared under standard managemental conditions up to six weeks of age. The broiler starter ration was fed from zero to four weeks of age and finisher ration from five to six weeks of age. Results of the present study revealed that supplementation of turmeric at 0.6 per cent level significantly (P S 0.05) depressed the final body weight of broilers at 6 weeks of age. The cumulative feed intake and feed conversion ratio up to sixth week of age did not reveal significant difference between the dietary groups. The ready to cook yield, blood loss and total loss were not influenced by the dietary supplementation of turmeric. The dressed yield in groups fed 0.2 and 0.4 per cent turmeric were significantly higher (P S 0.05) than that of the control group. The giblet yield in all the turmeric supplemented groups were significantly higher than the control group (P S 0.05). The per cent weight of thymus and bursa were increased by . the supplementation of 0.6 per cent turmeric. The dietary supplementation' of turmeric improved the haematological parameters as haemoglobin, packed cell volume, total leucocyte and erythrocyte counts. The dietary supplementation of turmeric at 0.4 and 0.6 per cent levels (T3 and T4) resulted in a significant (PS 0.05) reduction in serum cholesterol level. The supplementation of turmeric did not influence the level of serum total protein. The supplementation of turmeric at 0.4 and 0.6 per cent levels (T3 and T4) significantly (PS 0.05) reduced the serum total lipids in broilers. The level of liver enzymes ALT and AST was significantly (PS 0.05) reduced by the supplementation of turmeric at 0.6 per cent level. The supplementation of turmeric at 0.4 per cent reduced the thigh meat cholesterol in broilers (P~ 0.05). Livability of birds in all dietary groups was 100 per cent. The results obtained in the present study showed that the supplementation of turmeric at the levels 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6 per cent employed in the study had no deleterious effect in broilers .The net profit per kg body weight was reduced as a result of inclusion of turmeric powder in broiler diet. However, the higher dressed and giblet yields, lower meat cholesterol consequent to turmeric supplementation seems to be advantageous.
Effect of housing system on protein and energy requirements of white leghorn
(Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 1991) Anitha, P; Jalaludeen, A
An experiment was designed to study the influence of housing system on protein and energy requirements of strain cross White Leghorn chicken (ILM-90) from one day old to seventy two weeks of age. Seven hundred and twenty, one day old female chicks of ILM-90 (IWNxIWP) of the Mannuthy Centre of All India Co-ordinated Research Project on Poultry for eggs, were randomly divided into two groups of 360 chicks each, one group for floor and other for cage experiment. They were randomly alloted to 12 dietary protein energy combination groups with each treatment having three replicates and each replicate having ten chicks in both housing systems
Effect of supplementation of dried bovine spleen in the diet of broiler chicken
(Department of Poultry Science, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, 1999) Shibu, K V; Anitha, P
Effects of biostimulants on vegetable production
(COLLEGE OF HORTICULTURE KERALA AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY, 2019) Nidhin, Raj; Anitha, P
Evaluation of Chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) genotypes for yield, bacterial wilt and leaf curl virus incidence
(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture , Vellanikkara, 2024-05-21) Suvarna, K; Anitha, P
Chilli is one of the important vegetable spice cultivated worldwide and is commonly referred to as red pepper or hot pepper. It is a crucial commercial crop utilized as a vegetable, spice, condiment and culinary flavour enhancer. Chilli is mainly used as culinary supplement to add flavour, colour and pungency. Chilli is an abundant source of vitamin A and C. Capsaicin and its related compounds present in the placental tissue of its fruits is used in pain relieve balms and vapour rubs. The green fruits of chilli stand out as one of the most plentiful sources of antioxidants. Despite its considerable nutritional value, widespread acceptance among consumers and extensive genetic diversity, achieving optimal productivity in chilli production remains a challenge due to lack of high-yielding and disease-resistant varieties or hybrids. In addition, diseases like chilli leaf curl virus and bacterial wilt are the most two important diseases affecting chilli production. In this context, the current study was initiated with the objective of assessment of morphological traits of chilli genotypes for yield to identify high yielding ones and to simultaneously evaluate these genotypes against bacterial wilt and leaf curl virus incidence. The present study was conducted in the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara during January 2023 to May 2023, using 31 chilli genotypes. The analysis of variance among the 31 genotypes of chilli revealed significant variations across all the traits. Genetic parameters such as Genotypic Coefficient of Variation (GCV), Phenotypic Coefficient of Variation (PCV), heritability and Genetic Advance (GA) were computed to assess the extent of variability. High GCV and PCV were exhibited by the characters like plant height, fruits per plant, average fresh fruit weight, average dry fruit weight, fruit length, fruit girth, pedicel- fruit ratio, yield per plant, bacterial wilt incidence, incidence of leaf curl virus, oleoresin content, capsaicin content, ascorbic acid content. The results indicated that the presence of a broad genetic base which will be useful in further selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was reported in most of the morphological and quality characters indicating that these characters are under the influence of additive gene action. Therefore, it is feasible to apply direct selection for improving these traits. Correlation studies indicated that fruit yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with plant height, primary branches per plant, fruits per plant, average fresh fruit weight, average dry fruit weight, fruit length, pedicel length, oleoresin content, capsaicin content and ascorbic acid content. Interrelationships among plant traits is crucial for enhancing both yield and quality. Hence, simultaneous selection for these characters would be advantageous for enhancing chilli yield. Path coefficient analysis among yield and its constituent traits indicated that the fruits per plant, average fresh fruit weight, days to harvest, pedicel length, fruit girth and plant height showed direct positive influence on yield. Path analysis reveals whether the correlation between yield-related traits and yield is having direct effect, in which case direct selection for improvement is possible. From the present study, based on the path coefficient and correlation results the genotypes CA 1, CA 3, CA 6 and Ujwala were recognized as promising or advantageous. The 31 chilli genotypes were categorized into eleven clusters using Mahalanobis D2 statistic. Cluster I contained the largest number of genotypes (21), followed by cluster II, cluster III, cluster IV, cluster V, cluster VI, cluster VII, cluster VIII, cluster IX, cluster X and cluster XI which had one genotype each. The intra-cluster distance was the highest in cluster I, while the inter-cluster distance was the greatest between cluster IV and cluster IX. Hence, selecting genotypes for hybridization or developing hybrids, genotypes from these two clusters should be prioritized. The selection index for chilli was established based on the characters including fruit yield per plant, fruits per plant, average fresh fruit weight, incidence of leaf curl virus and bacterial wilt incidence. Among the genotypes evaluated, CA 3, CA 6, CA 1 and Ujjwala were identified as the top performers. Notably, genotypes CA 3, CA 6 and CA 1 exhibited superior performance in terms of yield and leaf curl virus resistance when compared to Ujwala.
Evaluation of sponge gourd genotypes for variability and quality
(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, 2023) Kousthubha, V P; Anitha, P
Sponge gourd [Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem syn L. aegyptiaca Mill] is a summer season vegetable which requires warm summer temperatures. It is an annual climber that yields fruit with a fibrous vascular system. Young fruits are edible, and mature fibres have industrial applications. Potential applications of this crop may literally be seen everywhere in fields including agriculture, medicine, science, engineering, and biotechnology. Even though it has many medicinal and industrial applications, its cultivation is restricted to a limited area. Thus, there is a huge scope to expand its cultivation to non- conventional areas. Since, it is an underutilized vegetable in Kerala, it is very important to have knowledge on genetic diversity of the crop in formulating crop improvement program. In this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives of determining the genetic variability, correlation between yield and its components, and genetic divergence among sponge gourd accessions, as well as evaluating their quality. The experiment was carried out in Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara during February 2022 – June 2022. Wide variability was observed for the morphological characteristics of the sponge gourd accessions. Fruit colour varied from light green to dark green. Accessions IC-343160, IC-332319, IC-284881, IC-313018, IC-312949, Kashi Shreya, and the local collection showed a dark green colour with white stripes. Fruit shaped varied from elongate to elliptical among all the genotypes. IC-334305, IC-284946, and IC-433702 were elliptical in shape. The analysis of variance of the 20 genotypes of sponge gourd exhibited significant differences among them for all the traits under study. Genetic parameters like GCV, PCV, heritability and GAM were estimated to study the degree of variability. High GCV and PCV were exhibited by the characters like node number of first staminate flower, number of primary branches per plant, number of fruits per plant, fruit yield per plant, calcium content, iron content, and fibre content, which implies the presence of a broad genetic base and will be useful in further selection. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was reported in most of the morphological and quality characters indicating that these characters are under the influence of additive gene action. Fruit yield per plant was significantly and positively correlated with number of primary branches per plant, fruit length, average fruit weight and number of fruits per plant, fibre content and shelf life. Therefore, simultaneous selection for these traits would be useful in improving the yield of sponge gourd. Path coefficient analysis between yield and its component traits revealed that number of fruits per plant, days to first marketable fruit harvest, average fruit weight, days to anthesis of first pistillate flower, number of primary branches per plant, node number of first pistillate flower and rind thickness exhibited direct positive effect on yield. Hence, direct selection for these traits would be useful to improve the fruit yield. From the present study, based on the above traits, accessions IC-343160, IC-332319, IC-312949, IC-343162 and IC-398587 were found good. The 20 sponge gourd genotypes were grouped into seven clusters based on Mahalanobis D2 statistic. Cluster VII had highest number of genotypes (5) followed by cluster VI (4). Cluster I and III had three genotypes each. There were two genotypes in each of clusters IV and V and one genotype in cluster II. Intra cluster distance was maximum in cluster VII. Inter cluster distance was maximum between cluster I and III. Therefore, in hybridization program, genotypes should be selected from these two clusters for developing hybrids. Sensory evaluation was conducted on the cooked as well as uncooked fruits in order to score them based on their appearance, colour, flavour, texture and overall acceptability. IC-312949, IC-343160, IC-332319, IC-284881 and IC-398579 were superior in sensory qualities. There was no bitterness in most of the accessions. The analysis of cucurbitacin E was done using HPLC, and the results showed that cucurbitacin E is absent in all the samples of sponge gourd. The selection index for sponge gourd was fixed by taking the characters like fruit yield per plant, number of fruits per plant, average fruit weight, days to anthesis of the first pistillate flower, and overall acceptability of sensory evaluation and the accessions IC-343160, IC-332319, IC-312949, IC-284869, and Kashi Shreya were identified as the best ones. Genotypes IC-343160, IC-332319, IC-312949 outperformed the released variety Kashi Shreya of IIVR, Varanasi, with respect to yield and quality.
Evalution of dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) sweet) accession (Pole type) for yield and quality
(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2020) Nidhin, Raj; Anitha, P
Dolichos bean (Lablab purpureus (L.) Sweet) is a multi-purpose crop cultivated in both tropical and sub-tropical conditions. The tender pods rich in protein, fibre, iron and calcium are used as vegetable and dried seeds as pulse. Tender leaves are cooked and consumed as vegetable. The pole types are photosensitive in nature preferring short days and comparatively cool season for flowering. Despite of its multi-utility and multiple benefits, its cultivation is done in limited area only. Thus, there is a huge scope to expand cultivation to non-conventional regions which would assure nutritional and income security for the farmers. The efforts for genetic enhancement of this crop also has been limited. In this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives of determining the genetic variability, genetic divergence and character associations among dolichos bean accessions for yield and yield contributing traits and to evaluate the accessions for quality. The experiment was conducted at the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during September 2019- April 2020. The dolichos bean accessions were catalogued as per the NBPGR Minimal Descriptor for Characterization and Evaluation of Agri-Horticultural crops (2000). The flower colour varied from white to purple. The pod colour varied from light green, green to purple. Green pods with purple border were observed in LP-2, LP-12, LP-19, LP-31, LP-32 and LP-35. Purple pods were observed in LP-11, LP-17 and LP-22. The pod shape varied from straight, intermediate to curved. Based on the reaction to bacterial wilt disease, the accessions were categorized into susceptible and resistant. The accessions, LP-1, LP-5, LP-6, LP-9 and LP-14 were highly susceptible and showed 100 per cent bacterial wilt incidence. The analysis of variance of the 25 accessions showed significant differences among them for all traits under study. Genetic parameters like GCV, PCV, heritability, GA and GAM were estimated to study the nature and extent of variability. High GCV, PCV, heritability and GAM were exhibited by the characters green pod yield/plant, number of seeds/pod, pod length, pod girth, pod weight, number of pods/plant and total phenols which indicated the presence of high variability and additive gene action for these traits. Hence, these traits can be improved through selection. Quality traits viz., iron, calcium, total phenols, and phytic acid exhibited close association between PCV and GCV. In addition, moderate to high heritability and GAM were observed indicating that phenotypic values were a true measure of the genotype and the improvement of these traits is possible through selection. Green pod yield per plant was significantly, positively correlated with number of pods per plant, number of harvests, duration of the crop, calcium and crude protein. Further, green pod yield per plant was positively correlated with number of pods per cluster, pod length, pod weight and pod girth. However, these correlations were not significant which indicated their independent nature with respect to yield. Path coefficient analysis of yield and its component characters revealed that the highest direct positive effect on green pod yield per plant was exhibited by number of pods per plant followed by days to first flowering, pod weight, number of seeds per pod and duration of the crop. Hence direct selection of accessions based on these traits would improve yield. From the present study, accessions viz., LP-2, LP-13 and LP-34 could be selected as promising ones based on these traits. Twenty five accessions of dolichos bean were grouped into six clusters based on D2 values. Cluster VI had highest number of accessions (8) followed by cluster III (6). Cluster I and II had four accessions each. There were two accessions in cluster IV and one accession in cluster V. Inter cluster distance was maximum between cluster IV and cluster V. Hence, superior hybrids could be obtained by hybridization among the accessions present in these clusters. Sensory evaluation was conducted in the cooked pods to score the accessions based on their appearance, colour, flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability. LP- 31, LP-28 and LP-13 were superior in sensory qualities. The selection criteria for dolichos bean was fixed by taking the characters such as green pod yield per plant, number of pods per plant, pod weight, days to first flowering and overall acceptability of sensory evaluation and the accessions LP-28, LP- 13, LP-12, LP-2 and LP-35 were identified as the most promising ones based on this.
Fruit maturity, method of seed drying and storage conditions on seed quality in okra (Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench)
(Department Of Olericulture, College Of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 1997) Anitha, P; Sadhankumar, P G
Genetic divergence studies in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L) Taub.)
(Department of Vegetable Science,College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Ramzeena, A; Anitha, P
Cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba (L) Taub.) is a hardy drought tolerant crop in warm tropical and subtropical regions. In southern parts of India, the pods which are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, iron and calcium are consumed as a vegetable. The guar gum extracted from the seeds of cluster bean is used in paper, textiles and pharmaceutical industries. Genetic divergence studies help to determine the degree of variability present in a germplasm and to identify suitable genotypes for crop improvement. Eventhough wide variability is present in cluster bean, limited work has been done to exploit genetic resources to identify genotypes for vegetable purpose. In this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives of determining the variability and correlation between yield and yield components in cluster bean. Thirty accessions of cluster bean were collected from NBPGR, Jodhpur and evaluated for different morphological and quality characters. The experiment was conducted in the Department of Vegetable Science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, during August – October 2017. Thirty accessions were catalogued based on NBPGR crop descriptor. The accessions exhibited branching and non- branching growth habits. Except four accessions, all others were branching types. The non-branching types were CT-9, CT- 15, CT-17 and CT-27. All accessions were having light purple flower except CT-8 which had white flower. Pods were dark green to light green in colour, without pubescence and glabrous. Seed colour varied from light pink and light grey to dark grey. Significant differences were observed among thirty accessions of cluster bean for all the characters studied. Genetic parameters like GCV, PCV, heritability, genetic advance and genetic gain were estimated to study extent of variability. The effectiveness of selection depends up on the magnitude of heritability of the trait. Characters like plant height, number of branches, number of pod clusters/plant, number of pods/cluster, number of pods/plant, pod length, pod girth, pod weight and pod yield/plant exhibited high GCV, PCV and heritability, indicating that these traits can be improved through selection. Pod yield/plant was positively correlated with number of branches, number of pod clusters/plant, number of pods/plant, days to first harvest, pod weight, number of harvests, iron, calcium, total carbohydrates, crude fibre and vitamin C. Path coefficient analysis of yield and component characters revealed that number of pods/plant had maximum direct positive effect on pod yield followed by days to first fruit set, pod weight, plant height, number of harvests, number of branches, crude fibre and total carbohydrates. Hence, direct selection of accessions based on these traits would be useful for improving pod yield/plant. The genotypes CT-16, CT-18, CT-20 and CT-21 were found promising. In the present study, CT-20, CT-3, CT-6, CT-10 & CT-12 were found having better sensory qualities. Mahalanobis D2 analysis grouped the thirty accessions to VIII clusters. Cluster IV had maximum number of accessions, (8) followed by cluster I (7) accessions. There were three accessions in Cluster II, V and VI. Cluster III, VII and VIII had two accessions each. Inter cluster distance was maximum between III and II. Hence, parents can be selected from cluster II and Cluster III for production of hybrids.
Genetic improvement of horticultural traits of bacterial wilt resistant/tolerant tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties
(Department of Vegetable Science ,College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, 2023-02-14) Athulya, M P; Anitha, P
Vegetable production in the warm humid tropics is hampered by the recurrence of pests and diseases. Bacterial wilt disease caused Ralstonia solanacearum is the single most impediment, putting bottle neck in the commercial cultivation of tomato in Kerala. The disease is particularly rigorous in Kerala, where variety of factors such as virulent pathogen, favorable climate, and edaphic factors are available. As the pathogen is able to survive in soil, plant debris, weeds and able to move along with irrigation water; management practices are not quite effective in curbing the disease spread. Hence, exploitation of host plant resistance is the best feasible way to manage bacterial wilt disease. Bacterial wilt resistant varieties of tomato developed from the Kerala Agricultural University are nationally renowned. However, due to small fruit size, these varieties are low in demand in the market.In this context, the present investigation entitled “Genetic improvement of horticultural traits of bacterial wilt resistant/tolerant tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) varieties” by following line x tester analysis was undertaken to improve yield, fruit size and quality of bacterial wilt resistant/tolerant tomato varieties.
Impact of seasons and pinching on growth and flowering in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L)
(Department of Pomology and Floriculture, College of Agriculture,Padannakkad, 2015) Sruthi Prakash, N; Anitha, P
The study entitled “Impact of seasons and pinching on growth and flowering in African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.)” was undertaken at the College of Agriculture, Padannakkad during 2013-2015. The experiment was conducted in three seasons namely, premonsoon (January 2014), monsoon (May 2014) and postmonsoon season (September 2014).The experiment consisted of two varieties (V1- Pusa Narangi Gainda, V2- Pusa Basanti Gainda) and two levels of pinching (P0- no pinching, P1- pinching at 30 days after transplanting). The interaction effect of variety x pinching on growth and yield was also studied. Pinching had significant influence on growth and flowering of two African marigold varieties. Growth parameters like plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, leaf area and total biomass varied with pinching during three seasons. In both the varieties maximum number of primary branches was observed in January sown crop with pinching. In both the varieties, May sown crop recorded maximum number of secondary branches with pinching. Leaf area and total biomass was found maximum in May sown crop for both the varieties with pinching. Early flowering was observed in September sown crop. Flower diameter, length of flower stalk and flower weight was not influenced by season and pinching. Maximum number of flowers and flower yield was observed in January sown crop in both the varieties with pinching. Among the varieties, Pusa Basanti Gainda can be recommended for cultivation during premonsoon season (Jan- April). In monsoon season, Pusa Narangi Gainda can be recommended for cultivation to meet the demand during Onam season.
Influence of rootstocks on yield, quality and bacterial wilt resistance in F1 hybrids of Tomato
(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture,Vellanikkara, 2024-05-21) Remzeena, A.; Anitha, P
Tomato production in the tropics and subtropics is often hampered by the incidence of various pests and diseases. Among these, bacterial wilt caused by the soil-borne bacteria Ralstonia solanacearum poses a significant problem for tomato growers in Kerala. The warm, humid, tropical climate and acidic soil conditions prevailing in the state provide a favorable environment for wide spread occurrence of bacterial wilt in the state. Growing resistant varieties have been identified as one of the most effective management strategy. However, the development of bacterial wilt-resistant varieties or hybrids is challenging due to the quantitative nature of the trait, its linkage to small fruit size, and the diversity of pathogen strains. Therefore, an effective alternative is grafting tomato cultivars having high production potential onto bacterial wilt resistant rootstocks. In addition to providing complete resistance to bacterial wilt, grafting also helps in harnessing improved yield. In this context, the present study was undertaken with the objectives of identifying bacterial wilt-resistant rootstocks for tomatoes, evaluating the performance of the grafts for yield, quality, and bacterial wilt resistance, and determining their suitability for growing in the rainshelter. In experiment 1, ten F1 hybrids of tomato were collected and evaluated in sterilized medium for their yield and quality. Hybrids exhibited significant variation for yield and quality traits. Among the hybrids significantly high plant height was exhibited by Arka Apeksha. Days to flowering and harvest was minimum in Lakshmi. Arka Rakshak exhibited highest root length and spread followed by Arka Apeksha. Average fruit weight was significantly high in Arka Abhed (97.56g) followed by Arka Samrat (89.68g). Lakshmi recorded significantly highest fruit yield per plant (3.28 kg) which was on par with Arka Samrat (2.86 kg) and Arka Abhed (2.78 kg) followed by Arka Rakshak (2.65 kg), Sampurna (2.62 kg) and Arka Apeksha (2.59 kg). Fruit quality traits such as lycopene, vitamin C, TSS was the highest in Arka Apeksha. Sampurna recorded the highest acidity and total phenol was the highest in COTH3. NSC 620B recorded the highest Orthodihydroxy (OD) phenol and the lowest solasodine content was recorded in Arka Apeksha. Among the hybrids the highest bacterial incidence was recorded in Shivam (72.50 %) and the hybrid Arka Abhed recorded zero per cent incidence. Tomato Leaf Curl Virus (ToLCV) incidence was highest in COTH3 whereas, six hybrids Lakshmi, Sampurna, Arka Rakshak, Arka Abhed, Arka Samrat and Arka Apeksha was completely free from ToLCV incidence. In the experiment 2, six high yielding tomato hybrids from the experiment 1 (Lakshmi, Arka Samrat, Arka Abhed, Arka Rakshak, Sampurna and Arka Apeksha) were grafted on four brinjal rootstocks viz., Surya, Haritha, SM 3, SM 116 and two Solanum torvum rootstocks (KAU-1and TNAU-1). These grafts were evaluated for their yield, quality and bacterial wilt resistance in bacterial wilt sick field. Plant height, girth of graft (60 DAP), root length and spread, average fruit weight were significantly improved in the grafted plants compared to their non-grafted controls. The highest plant height was recorded in the grafts on SM 116 and Haritha and the lowest plant height was recorded on SM 3 irrespective of the scion. Girth of graft was significantly high when grafted on Haritha in all the hybrids which was followed by the grafts on Surya. Root length and spread were also significantly high in grafts on Haritha followed by the grafts on Solanum torvum rootstocks. Grafts on Haritha recorded the highest overall average fruit weight which was on par with the grafts on Surya. Days to flowering and days to harvest were delayed in the grafted plants compared to the non-grafted controls. However, significant improvement was recorded in the crop duration of grafted plants compared to non-grafts. Fruit yield was significantly improved compared to non-graft control on Haritha, Surya and SM 116 in all the hybrids. Arka Rakshak (4.17 kg) , Lakshmi (3.98 kg), Arka Samrat (3.85 kg), Arka Abhed (3.83 kg) and Arka Apeksha (3.76 kg) exhibited highest fruit yield per plant on Haritha, whereas, Sampurna showed the highest fruit yield per plant on Surya (3.75 kg). Among the 36 graft combinations, Arka Rakshak, Lakshmi, Arka Samrat, Arka Abhed, Arka Apeksha grafted on Haritha and Arka Rakshak, Sampurna, Lakshmi on Surya recorded the highest yield per plant and performed on par with each other. Total Soluble Solids (TSS) of the fruits of grafted plants were on par with that of non-grafted control in all hybrids. Acidity increased in the fruits of grafts compared to the non-grafts. Lycopene content of the grafts were on par with non-grafted control except in the grafts of Sampurna on Haritha and Solanum torvum rootstocks. Fruits of grafted plants also recorded a decrease in vitamin C compared to non-grafted control. However, vitamin C content of fruits of grafts on Haritha and Surya were on par with that of the non-grafted control in all the hybrids except Lakshmi. Total Phenol, OD Phenol and Solasodine content increased significantly in grafted plants compared to non-grafted control. Sensory evaluation of fruits of grafted and non-grafted plants indicated only non-significant difference between grafts and non-grafted control. Overall acceptability was similar or higher in grafts compared to non-grafts except in the grafts of Lakshmi and Sampurna on Solanum torvum rootstocks. Grafts on the brinjal rootstocks Surya, Haritha, SM3 and SM 116 recorded zero percent incidence of bacterial wilt. Whereas grafts on Solanum torvum rootstocks (TNAU- 1 and KAU- 1) recorded 6.67-13.33 per cent incidence. Rootstocks did not influenced the ToLCV incidence of the scion as ToLCV incidence was recorded in both grafts and nongrafted controls. Anatomical studies of graft union revealed the formation of thick callus and establishment of vascular connection between stock and scion in the form of vascular bridges at 20 DAP planting. At 40 DAP, differentiation of vascular tissues were initiated in all the grafts and 60 DAP well established vascular connections were observed. Callus thickness and cell wall thickness generally reduced whereas dimensions of xylem vessel and phloem tissue increased from 20 DAP to 60 DAP in all the grafts. In the experiment 3, eight high yielding hybrids identified from experiment 2 were evaluated in rainshelter during rainy season for yield and quality. Compared to open field, plant height, average fruit weight, crop duration and yield of the grafts generally increased inside the rainshelter. However, the days to flowering, days to first harvest, TSS and acidity of grafts reduced compared to open field. There was significant variation among the grafts for yield and quality when grown inside rainshelter. Arka Apeksha on Haritha recorded the highest plant height among the grafts. Arka Abhed on Haritha recorded the highest average fruit weight, fruit yield and crop duration (120.47g, 4.49kg, 167.20 days) which was on par with Arka Samrat on Haritha (117.78g, 4.33kg, 167.80 days). The highest TSS was recorded in the graft of Arka Apeksha on Haritha and acidity was highest in Sampurna on Surya. None of the grafts recorded bacterial wilt incidence when grown inside rainshelter. ToLCV incidence was highest in Arka Samrat on Haritha and Arka Rakshak on Surya whereas, Sampurna on Surya and Arka Abhed and Lakshmi on Haritha recorded zero per cent incidence. Economic analysis was performed for growing the grafts inside rainshelter and the graft of Arka Abhed on Haritha recorded the highest B:C ratio of 2.03. All the grafts realized a B:C ratio greater than 1.50 indicating the economic viability of growing grafts inside rainshelter. From the study, it can be concluded that grafting is an economic, effective and quick method for the management of bacterial wilt and the brinjal rootstocks used in the study can be successfully utilized for grafting tomatoes when grown in bacterial wilt affected areas. Apart from imparting resistance they also enhanced the yield of the tomato hybrids without impairing the fruit quality.
Performance evaluation of leaf coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.)Types in the plains of kerala
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2017) Surya Raj; Anitha, P
Coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), belongs to the family Apiaceae, is an important annual spice herb, mainly cultivated for its fruits as well as for its tender green leaves. Recent understanding of the neutraceutical and medicinal properties of the leaves elevated the status of this herb. The present study entitled ‘Performance evaluation of leaf coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.) types in the plains of Kerala’ was conducted in the Department of Plantation crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during October 2015 to March 2017 with the objectives of evaluating five coriander varieties namely CO-1, CO-2, CO-3, CO (Cr-4) and Arka Isha in the rain shelter during different time of sowing viz., April-June 2016 (season S1), July to September 2016 (S2), October-December (S3) and January-March 2017 (S4) and in different growing conditions viz. rain shelter and open field for their growth, herbage yield and quality. The study reported that all the varieties showed difference with respect to the growth and herbage yield. Irrespective of time of sowing, the varieties CO (Cr-4) followed by CO-2, CO-3 and CO-1, recorded the lowest number of days to seed germination, first leaf, second leaf and third leaf emergence whereas, Arka Isha took more number of days for these parameters. The varieties Arka Isha and CO (Cr-4) yielded highest mean number of leaves in all the time of sowing (16.30 and 15.69). Generally, the crop grown during July-September (S2) exhibited maximum number of leaves (16.36) at harvest. Irrespective of time of sowing, the variety Arka Isha performed better with respect to the mean herbage and biomass yield per plant with highest yield during July-September (S2) and the lowest during January-March (S4). The variety CO (Cr-4) was the earliest to show serration of leaves in all the four time of sowing (37.43 days), flowering (40.19 days) and seed set (47.69 days). Whereas, the variety Arka Isha showed delay in leaf serration (49.29 days), flowering 158 (54.05 days), and seed set (63.27 days). The quality aspects like vitamin C and total chlorophyll were observed highest in Arka Isha (158.98 mg/100g and 2.20 mg/100g, respectively). With respect to the total chlorophyll, July-September (S2) sown crop (2.27 mg/100g) was superior. However, volatile oil content (0.05 per cent -0.06 per cent) was not affected by time of sowing. When grown in different growing conditions, the crops under rain shelter took significantly more days for germination (9.73 days), first leaf (12.49 days), second leaf (14.72 days) and third leaf (16.68 days) emergence, days to leaf serration (44.44 days), flowering (48.94 days) and seed set (58.80 days) compared to that in the open field. Also, the crop grown under rain shelter exhibited higher number of leaves at harvest (14.18), herbage and biomass yield (9.21g/plant and 12.78g/plant). In both the growing conditions, Arka Isha and CO-1 yielded more herbage (10.46g/plant and.8.97g/plant, respectively). The quality aspects like vitamin C and total chlorophyll (189.72 mg and 1.98mg) was found higher in the open field. The result indicated that July-September (S2) sowing was beneficial in the plains of Kerala to get favourable growth and herbage yield. The varieties Arka Isha followed by CO-1 gave maximum herbage yield. The rain shelter grown crops performed better than that in the open field for growth and herbage yield. However, vitamin C and total chlorophyll was higher in open field. The volatile oil was not affected by time of sowing and growing conditions.
Production performance of Japanese quails reared on different protein levels
(Department of Poultry Science ,College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, 2010) Padwal, N P; Anitha, P
The experiment was conducted in Japanese quails from 0 to 26 weeks of age including starter, grower and layer phases to study the production performance of Japanese quail when reared on different protein levels. Six hundred (600), day-old Japanese quail chicks belonging to single hatch were allotted randomly to three treatment groups with four replicates of fifty quails each. At the end of sixth week, sixteen female quails were selected from each replicate and housed in layer cages to assess the production performance of one hundred and ninety two (192) layer quails in three treatment groups of four replicates for the period of twenty weeks. Three types of iso-caloric diets (2800 kcal/kg) with different protein levels viz; 23, 25 and 27 per cent were used for three treatment groups T1, T2 and T3, respectively during starter phase (0-3 weeks of age). The protein levels used during grower phase (4 to 6 weeks) were 23 per cent in groups T1 and T2 and 24 per cent in group T3. During layer phase (7-26 weeks of age), all treatment groups were fed with same type of diet containing 22 per cent crude protein and 2650 kcal/kg ME. The body weight during experimental period at 3, 6 and 26 weeks of age did not differ significantly between dietary treatments. The results revealed that during starter (0 to 3 weeks) and grower phase (4 to 6 weeks) cumulative feed intake and FCR based on body weight gain did not differ significantly between dietary treatments. During Layer phase (7 to 26 weeks), the age at first egg, 10 and 50 per cent production was similar in all the treatment groups. Mean values of quail housed and quail day egg number and per cent production, egg mass, mean egg weight, mean cumulative daily feed consumption, period wise and cumulative FCR per dozen eggs and per kg eggs during layer phase did not differ significantly in all the treatment groups. The overall livability per cent during starter, grower and layer phases were not adversely affected due to different dietary protein levels during growing period. The margin of returns per quail housed over feed cost was significantly (P≤0.05) lower in group T3 (Rs -0.63) than T2 (Rs 0.36) and T1 (Rs 0.32) during growing period (0 to 6 weeks) The evaluation of the results revealed that quail chicks fed with diet containing 23 per cent crude protein in comparison with high protein (25 and 27 per cent crude protein) diets during growing period did not affect body weight gain and egg production traits. Therefore it can be recommended that diet with 23 per cent crude protein can be efficiently and economically used during the growing period of the layer Japanese quail.
Screening substrates and additives for enhancing yield and quality of nata-de-coco
(Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2017) Geethumol Thankappan; Anitha, P