eChapters

ABSTRACT

Recognizing the need to apply plant tissue culture tools for generating planting materials of important spice crops especially vanilla, the Spices Board started Biotech Production Unit at its head quarters building at Kochi with an annual production potential of 8 lakhs plantlets. Complete tissue culture protocols were developed and scaled up for large scale production of vanilla and other spices viz. large cardamom, small cardamom and tree spices. The laboratory is equipped with all modern facilities and is established in an area of about 2000 sft. Department of Biotechnology, Govt. of India also participated in the venture by sanctioning a project entitled “Regional centre for large scale production of tissue culture plantlets of vanilla and other spices” with a financial out lay of Rs 95 lakhs equally shared by DBT, New Delhi and Spices Board, Cochin.

At present there is a stock of over 3.00 lakh vanilla cultures in the lab and already 1.25 lakh plant lets were sent for hardening. The Spices Board, in coll aboration with “Kudumbashree”, a poverty eradication mission of Govt. of Kerala, extend short term training in tissue culture techniques to undergraduates from ‘Below Poverty Line’ (BPL) families and engage them as long term trainees in the Biotech Production Unit. The Board also coordinates and extends support to Kudumbashree members for, establishing and maintaining hardening facilities for TC plantlets thus providing means for empowering women from BPL families.

Introduction

Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) belongs to the Ericaceae family and is native to North America. Cranberries are also known by various other names, including American cranberry, bearberry, and lingonberry. The plant has a diploid chromosome number of 24 and grows in acidic, nutrient-poor soils in wetlands and bogs. It is an important commercial crop worldwide due to its high nutritional value, antioxidant properties, and health benefits. Cranberries are primarily consumed as juice, dried fruit, or in the form of sauces and jellies. They are a rich source of vitamins C and E, dietary fiber, anthocyanins and essential minerals such as potassium, manganese, and copper. The fruit is also used in the pharmaceutical industries due to its anti inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti aging properties (Santos et al., 2017; Wang et al., 2017).

The composition of cranberries is quite remarkable, with high levels of antioxidants, including phenolic compounds such as flavonols, anthocyanins, and proanthocyanidins. These compounds are responsible for the fruit’s vibrant red color and are thought to provide many of the health benefits associated with cranberries. Cranberries are an important crop in the United States, Canada, and Chile, with significant economic value. They are primarily consumed as juice or in processed forms, such as sauces and jams. Cranberries are also used in the production of dietary supplements and cosmetics.

Introduction

In the face of a burgeoning global population, the imperative for robust advancements in food production, especially within the aquaculture industry, is more pressing than ever. The expansion of this industry necessitates a nuanced consideration of environmental, economic, and social factors underpinned by a commitment to sustainable development. However, the intensification of aquaculture, particularly in coastal regions, poses long-term environmental risks due to increased organic matter in water, demanding innovative solutions.

In recent decades, recirculating systems have emerged as a step toward sustainable aquaculture, offering an effective approach to control wastewater. High operating costs have hindered widespread adoption despite their potential, particularly in developing countries. Enter the need for a game-changing, cost effective, and environmentally friendly technology that resonates with farmers on a large scale. This is where the Biofloc system, or Biofloc technology (BFT), takes center stage. A beacon of cost-effectiveness, sustainability, and environmental friendliness, the BFT reduces water exchange to almost zero and slashes artificial feeding ratios. This revolutionary system enhances water quality and generates microbial protein for aquatic species, addressing critical challenges faced by the aquaculture industry.

Answer the followings
    Q.1.    What is the relative incidence of  Streptococcus agalactiae, other Streptococci and Staphylococcus aureus
    Ans.    1:1: 2
    Q.2.    What are sources of contagious pathogen for mastitis?
    Ans.    Udder surfaces of infected quarters 
    Q.3.    What are sources of environmental pathogen for mastitis?
    Ans.    Bedding of cow’s environment
    Q.4.    When animal get infection from environmental pathogen?
    Ans.    Animal get infection at any time during the life such as milking time, between milking, during dry period and prior to first calving.
    Q.8.    What is the probable period of new infection from environmental pathogen?
    Ans.    Early part of dry period and first two months of lactation.
    Q.9.    What is the relation of growth of Corynebacterium bovis in milk and lactation?

Ice bank cooling: Storing of fruit and vegetable in storage chamber with positive ventilation and system countries where ice formation is allowed during night time (as electricity cost of night is less as compared to the day time). Melting of ice occurs during day time and with proper air circulation by means of ventilation process, approximately 0.5-1⁰C temperature with 90% RH in the chamber is maintained. Ice Bank Cooler / Air forced cooler leads to desiccation of the produce (Plate 139). So use forced air high humidity cooler and these are known as Ice Bank Cooler. Ice bank coolers are useful for strawberry.

A fair number of practical breeding experiments were done in ancient times

People knew there was a connection between sex and reproduction

The idea had developed that “like begets like”

By selecting certain plants and animals and breeding them many domestic varieties of plants and animals had been developed

Example: corn was developed from a wild grass in Mexico and Central America, probably about 5000 years ago

149 of the top 150 plant crops were domesticated by primitive man

ABSTRACT

Bunium persicum (Boiss.) Fedtsch., (Family: Apiaceae) is an important plant of temperate regions and its seeds are used as carminative substance in various food recipes. The seeds of the species act as a good source of economy to the hilly and mountain people. As the species is restricted in its habitat, therefore, it requires mass cultivation practices. Many attempts are already made to cultivate species near to its natural habitat. In recent years some efforts have been done to domesticate this plant in certain areas of India like Shong area in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh, India, but the cultivation remained very limited. Therefore, in addition to its collection from the wild sources the species needs more scientific intervention in agriculture sector. This species has typical Palaeo-Mediterranean distribution. In India the species is distributed in wild only in North West Himalaya (J&K, HP and UK) which makes its ocurrence rarity in the country. The species restricted its distribution between 1850-3100 meters above mean sea level. Phylogenetically the species is near to Carum carvi L., therefore, C. carvi is the potential adulterant of B. persicum.

ABSTRACT

Astudy was undertaken to evaluate the performance of tissue culture derived plants vis a vis open pollinated seedlings of cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum Maton). A total of 102.5 ha (units) covering 50 ha in Kerala, 37.5 ha in Karnataka and 15 ha in Tamil Nadu was selected for the present study out of which each demonstration plot (unit) had an area of one hectare in which 80% of the plants are tissue cultured and 20% are open pollinated. Elite cardamom clones were subjected to in vitro multiplication and their respective open pollinated seedlings were compared. The planting was initiated in 1989 and completed with 1991 in all the zones identified. Plant growth characters such as number of tillers, number of bearing tillers and panicles per clump were recorded and compared. The yield was recorded in 1993-94 and 94-95 seasons after its stabilisation. Results indicated that tissue culture plants performed better compared to open pollinated seedlings with regard to growth attributes and yield irrespective of the seasons and zones. In Kerala region tissue culture plants exhibited a yield increase of 24.3 and 36% over open pollinated seedlings for the 1989 and 1990 plantings respectively. Similar trend was observed in Tamil Nadu for 1989 and 1990 planting where the percentage increase in yield became 130 and 21 respectively. In Kerala, the yield performance of tissue culture plants and open pollinated seedlings was on par during 1990 planting but in the subsequent year (1991) tissue culture plants showed 24% increase in yield compared to their respective open pollinated ones. Further, the study enabled to identify cardamom clones suited to in various zones of the cardamom tract. Accordingly 14 clones with a yield potential of over 750 kg/ha under moderate management were identified and this indicated that cardamom clones are highly location specific in their performance.

Introduction

Plant analysis can be defined as the quantitative determination of the concentration of an element or extractable fraction of an element in a sample from a particular part or portion of a crop. From the nutritional standpoint, plant analysis is based on the principle that the concentration of a nutrient within the plant is an integral value of all the factors that have interacted to it. Plant analysis is used as an index of available nutrient element supply. Plant growth or yield are compared with the elemental concentrations contained in the dry matter of the entire plant or plant structures such as leaves, petioles, fruit or grain sampled at different times during their development. Plant analysis gives the overall picture of the nutrient levels within the plant at the time the nutrient was taken. The use of plant analysis is based on the principle that the nutrient level present is as a result of all factors affecting the growth of the plant.

Plant analysis involves the determination of nutrient concentration in diagnostic plant part(s) sampled at recommended growth stage(s) of the crop. In a way plant analysis complements soil analysis. There are reliable sampling criteria and procedures for most of the world’s commercial crops.

Importance

Plant analysis assesses nutrient uptake while soil testing predicts nutrient availability. The two tests are complementary to each other as crop management tools. Plant analysis will detect unseen hidden hunger and confirm visual deficiency symptoms. Toxic levels may also be detected. If it is done early, plant analysis will allow a corrective fertilizer application in the same season.

Providing appropriate nutrition is vital for ensuring the overall well-being, growth, vibrant coloration, and reproductive success of aquarium fish. Feeding isn’t merely a daily habit—it’s a critical biological responsibility that requires an understanding of each species’ dietary preferences, feeding habits, and digestive capabilities.
Fish are generally classified as herbivores, carnivores, omnivores, or detritivores, with each type requiring specific nutritional sources. Commercially available foods come in multiple forms, including flakes, pellets, wafers, granules, and options like frozen or live items such as brine shrimp, daphnia, and bloodworms. These formulated diets typically meet the nutritional needs of most fish, but additional supplements can improve growth and support breeding efforts.
It’s important to regulate how much and how often fish are fed. Overfeeding can result in excess waste, degraded water quality, and increased disease risk, while underfeeding may inhibit growth and compromise immune function. Generally, feeding fish once or twice daily with only what they can eat in 2–3 minutes is sufficient.
Special care should be taken when feeding fry, breeding fish, bottom feeders, or sensitive species. Additives like vitamins, probiotics, and natural pigments such as spirulina and carotenoids can enhance health and appearance. Feeding time also provides a chance to monitor fish behavior—eagerness to eat usually reflects good health, while disinterest may be an early sign of illness or stress.

The classification of crop diseases is a fundamental aspect of plant pathology, as it provides a framework for understanding the causes, symptoms, and management of diseases that affect crops. Classification is the process of grouping organisms or diseases into categories based on their shared characteristics, and it is essential for developing effective disease management strategies. Crop diseases can be classified in various ways, including by their causes, symptoms, hosts, and environmental factors. Understanding the classification of crop diseases is crucial for farmers, agricultural professionals, and researchers, as it enables them to identify diseases accurately, select appropriate management strategies, and develop new control methods. One of the primary ways to classify crop diseases is by their causes, which can be broadly categorized into infectious and non-infectious diseases. Infectious diseases are caused by living organisms, such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, while non-infectious diseases are caused by environmental factors, such as temperature, moisture, nutrient deficiencies and some substances toxic to plants. Another way to classify crop diseases is by their symptoms, which can include visible changes in plant growth, color, or texture, as well as reductions in yield or quality. Symptoms can be categorized into different types, such as leaf spots, blights, wilts, and tumors, each of which is associated with specific diseasecausing agents. Classification of crop diseases can also be based on the host plant, with diseases being grouped according to the specific crop or plant species they affect. This type of classification is useful for developing crop-specific disease management strategies. In this chapter, we will explore the different classification systems used for crop diseases, including their causes, symptoms, hosts, and environmental factors. We will also discuss the importance of accurate disease classification for effective disease management and the development of new control methods. The broad classification of crop diseases followed uniformly throughout the world is based on the nature of the causal agent, and it categorizes diseases into two main groups: infectious diseases and non-infectious diseases.
5.1 Infectious diseases
These are caused by living organisms, such as fungi, bacteria, viruses, and nematodes, which can spread from plant to plant. These diseases can be further subdivided into several categories, including:

Cut flowers have become an important segment of modern commercial floriculture because of their high economic value, domestic demand, export potential and employment-generating capacity. This chapter introduces the importance and scope of cut flower production in India and internationally. It examines the economic, social, employment and export significance of flowers and discusses major commercially cultivated crops such as rose, chrysanthemum, gerbera, gladiolus, carnation, lily, orchid, anthurium and tuberose. The chapter also identifies production constraints including labour, infrastructure, cold-chain limitations and market fluctuations, while highlighting opportunities arising from protected cultivation, precision farming, technology, exports and increasing consumer demand.

Shoot and fruit borer: Earias vitella (=E.fabia), E. insulana: Noctuidae

This is a pest on cotton, bhendi, hibiscus, holly hock and other malvaceous vegetables. The damage is due to the larva that bores into tender terminal shoots in the vegetative stage and flower buds;  flowers and young fruits in the fruit formation stage.  The damaged shoot drops, wither and dry up.  The infested fruits have bore holes, are deformed and become unfit for consumption.  Bore holes are plugged with excreta.

Twenty four crossbred cows in second to fourth lactation with most probable production ability (MPPA) of average approximately 2300 liter milk production per lactation for each group were selected from the herd maintained at RCDP on Cattle. The experimental animals were randomly divided into four treatment groups of 6 in each. Control group (T₀) was fed with 2/3 DM through roughages (2/3 from dry roughages and 1/3 from green roughages) + 1/3 DM from concentrate mixture (Conc. Mix includes 20% GNC (untreated). T₁ group was feed with 2/3 DM through roughages (2/3 from dry roughages and 1/3 from green roughages) + 1/3 DM from concentrate mixture (Conc. Mix includes 20% GNC treated with formaldehyde (FA) @ 1.0 g FA/100g CP).

ABSTRACT

Vanilla planifolia Andrews - the high value, exotic spice crop has recently gained wide acceptance in the southern and northeastern states of the country. Being an orchid, germination of naked embryo is limited and this favours genetic uniformity. An attempt was made to induce genetic variability in Vanilla through biotechnology tools for its exploitation in crop improvement programmes. In vitro embryo culture and mutagenesis were applied for the purpose. Plantlets were multiplied, hardened, planted out and evaluated for morphological, biochemical and molecular markers. Great interclonal variability was observed in the in vitro derived plantlets. The intraclonal variability was very low in tissue culture derived regenerants. Isozyme and RAPD assay confirmed genotypic variation. Six superior clones were identified and distributed to farmers for further evaluation.

1. Introduction

India is an exquisite example of biodiversity. From time immemorial scholars like Charaka, Barathwaj, Athreyan, Agnivesha, Dhanyandhari, Shushruthan, Wakbadan and Bharathduja etc. have studied and explored the possibility of such a diversity for human welfare and the most conspicuous exploration in this field has lead to the discovery of so many indigenous medicinal plants that were scripted mainly in Vedas (1500 BC) that contain rich materials on herbal lore of that time. Charaka in his medical treatise – Charaka samhita delt with innumerable medicinal plants, their usage and descriptions. Besides the two above said texts, treatise like Sushruth samhita and Ashtangha hridaya samhita are a few among other precious ancient texts. Thus the gradual accumulation of practical and systematic medical knowledge lead to the formation of Ayurveda.

Ayurveda - the science of life, prevention and longevity, is the oldest and most holistic or comprehensive medical system available. It was placed in written form over 2000 years ago. Ayurveda is said to have been first complied as a text by Agnivesha (Agniveshtantra). This text was later revised by Charaka and renamed as Charaka samhita (completed by Dhridhabala). The concept of medicines envisaged in the Ayurveda comes from the monumental scripture called Ashtanga hridaya and Sahasrayoga.

1. Introduction

Agricultural mechanization refers to usage of any improved tool, implement and machine by the farm workers to improve the efficiency of any operation to increase productivity. It also helps to reduce drudgery or stress which adversely affects human mental faculties leading to errors, imprecision and hazards and eventually loss of efficiency if done manually. In developed countries, however, mechanization is synonymous to automation. There is scope to mechanize every operation of crop production, post harvest and agro-processing.

Any material of natural or synthetic origin added to the soil to supply one or more plant nutrients.

10.1. Classification of fertilizers

10.1.1. Straight fertilizers

Supply only one primary plant nutrient, namely nitrogen or phosphorus or potassium.

Eg. Urea, ammonium sulphate, potassium chloride and potassium sulphate.

Introduction

The sacred chank, scientifically known as Turbinella pyrum (Xancus Pyrum - Linnaeus, 1758), is an extraordinary marine mollusk found in the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean and surrounding areas. Revered for its captivating beauty and symbolic significance, this large sea snail holds a prominent place in the rich tapestry of Indian culture and religious traditions. Devotional side and stories of sacred chank Turbinella pyrum is not new to Indian culture. It is as significant from a biodiversity standpoint as it is from a cultural perspective. 

Farmers' rights and advocacy are essential for the sustainability and advancement of agricultural communities worldwide. These rights encompass access to land, seeds, resources, and fair market conditions, along with the recognition of farmers' contributions to food security and biodiversity. Advocacy for farmers' rights involves mobilizing stakeholders, influencing policy, and fostering grassroots movements to ensure equitable treatment and support for farmers. This article delves into the historical context, key components, challenges, and effective strategies for advocating farmers' rights, underscoring the importance of a collective approach to empower the agricultural sector

Introduction

Farmers are the backbone of global food systems, playing a crucial role in feeding populations and maintaining biodiversity. However, they often face numerous challenges, including land tenure insecurity, lack of access to quality seeds, limited financial resources, and unfavorable market conditions. Recognizing and advocating for farmers' rights is vital to address these issues and support sustainable agricultural practices. This article explores the historical development of farmers' rights, their key components, the challenges farmers face, and effective strategies for advocacy, emphasizing the importance of collective action to empower the agricultural sector.