PLANT CELL BIOTECHNOLOGY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY

Next-Generation Crop Breeding: Harnessing Genomics, Phenomics and Machine Learning: A Review

2026-06-23T11:16:28+00:00

Global food security requires crop improvement strategies that can respond to population growth, climate variability and increasing constraints on agricultural resources. Conventional plant breeding has contributed substantially to crop productivity, yet long selection cycles and dependence on extensive field evaluation can limit the rate of genetic gain. This review synthesises advances in genomics, phenomics and machine learning for next-generation crop breeding, with emphasis on their combined contribution to selection accuracy and breeding efficiency. Key genomic approaches discussed include whole-genome sequencing, reference and pan-genome resources, genome-wide association studies, genomic selection and CRISPR-Cas-based genome editing. The review also examines high-throughput phenotyping platforms, including controlled-environment systems, ground-based robots, UAV-based remote sensing and root phenotyping tools. Machine learning approaches, ranging from random forest and support vector machines to convolutional neural networks, recurrent networks, transformers and explainable artificial intelligence, are considered in relation to genomic prediction, image analysis and breeding decision support. Multi-omics integration, data management, FAIR principles and an integrated genomics-phenomics-ML breeding pipeline are reviewed as enabling components for practical deployment. Crop-specific examples from wheat, rice, maize, soybean and legumes illustrate the potential and constraints of these technologies. The review further identifies key challenges, including phenotyping bottlenecks, genotype-environment interaction, data governance, model interpretability and regulatory uncertainty.

Dynamics of Physico-Chemical, Quality Parameters of Cherry Tomato as Influenced by Pruning Intensities and Transplanting Dates under Controlled Conditions in the Subtropical Region of North-Western Himalayas

2026-06-23T11:07:32+00:00

Cherry tomato (Solanum lycopersicum var. cerasiforme) is a high-value vegetable valued for its taste, nutritional attributes and market preference, but quality-oriented management under protected subtropical cultivation requires further refinement. This study evaluated the effects of pruning intensity and transplanting date on physico-chemical quality attributes of cherry tomato grown under a low-cost polyhouse during Rabi season at SKUAST-J. The experiment was arranged in a factorial randomised block design with three pruning intensities, three transplanting dates and three replications. Two-stem pruning improved fruit quality by recording higher fruit size (27.84 mm), ascorbic acid (37.16 mg 100 g⁻¹), lycopene (6.10 mg 100 g⁻¹) and sugar–acid ratio (26.40), along with lower titratable acidity (0.29%), compared with other pruning treatments. Transplanting on 15 October recorded higher ascorbic acid (40.76 mg 100 g⁻¹), lycopene (6.73 mg 100 g⁻¹), sugar–acid ratio (28.59) and lower acidity (0.28%), whereas transplanting on 30 October recorded the highest total soluble solids (8.37 °Brix). The interaction between pruning and transplanting date showed that two-stem pruning combined with 15 October transplanting (P₂D₁) gave the best overall fruit-quality response, including the largest fruit size (28.76 mm) and favourable biochemical balance. Principal component analysis further supported the superiority of P₂D₁ for integrated fruit quality. The findings indicate that two-stem pruning with mid-October transplanting can improve cherry tomato quality under protected subtropical conditions.

Detect the Effect of Western Himalayan Conditions on Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L.) Core Set Germplasm and Seed Physical Traits

2026-06-22T12:02:32+00:00

Seed physical traits are important determinants of yield-related attributes, seed appearance and consumer market preference in cowpea. The present investigation was conducted under Western Himalayan conditions to assess variability and trait associations for ten physical seed traits in 254 diverse cowpea genotypes, including four checks, and to identify promising lines for future breeding programmes. Considerable variability was observed across all studied traits, indicating substantial diversity among the evaluated genotypes. Seed length, seed breadth, seed width, breadth/width ratio and aspect ratio ranged from 5.33 to 11.67 mm, 3.87 to 9.80 mm, 3.03 to 18.60 mm, 0.87 to 2.13 and 0.30 to 2.31, respectively. The ranges for equivalent diameter, sphericity, seed volume and surface area also indicated clear phenotypic variation. Seed volume and surface area ranged from 25.17 to 256.17 mm³ and 46.01 to 196.59 mm², respectively, with mean values of 69.82 and 95.76. The coefficient of variation was highest for seed volume (38.39%), followed by 100-seed weight (34.05%) and surface area (25.97%), suggesting comparatively greater scope for selection in these traits. Correlation analysis showed positive associations among several seed physical traits. Seed length was positively correlated with seed breadth, aspect ratio, surface area, seed volume and equivalent diameter, while seed breadth was positively associated with seed thickness, breadth/thickness ratio, surface area, volume and aspect ratio. The first two principal components of the PCA biplot explained 80% of the total variation, supporting visual interpretation of trait relationships and their contributions to variability. These findings show that the cowpea core set contains useful variability for selecting genotypes with desirable seed physical traits.

Phenotypic Evaluation of Advanced Breeding Lines for Introgression of Blast Resistance Genes in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

2026-06-22T09:05:45+00:00

Rice blast, caused by Magnaporthe oryzae, remains a major fungal disease affecting rice productivity worldwide, and the development of resistant cultivars is an economical and environmentally sustainable approach for its management. The present investigation evaluated fifty advanced breeding lines derived from the cross MTU1010 NIL × Akshayadhan NIL for resistance to blast under Uniform Blast Nursery (UBN) conditions during Rabi 2020–21 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Jagtial, Telangana, India. Phenotypic screening was performed using the virulent local isolate SPI-40 of M. oryzae, and disease reactions were recorded according to the Standard Evaluation System (SES) scale. The breeding lines showed clear variation in response to blast infection under the imposed disease pressure. Of the fifty lines evaluated, thirty-six exhibited resistant reactions with a disease score of 3, thirteen showed moderately resistant reactions with a disease score of 5, and one line, VSR-49, was susceptible with a score of 7. The susceptible parent MTU1010 NIL and the susceptible check TN1 recorded highly susceptible reactions, each with a score of 9. In contrast, the resistant parent Akshayadhan NIL and the resistant check NLR34449 expressed resistant responses, with scores of 3 and 1, respectively. The high frequency of resistant lines indicates successful recovery of blast-resistant breeding material in the MTU1010 genetic background. The results also support the usefulness of UBN-based phenotypic screening for identifying promising lines under controlled disease pressure. These resistant lines may be useful genetic resources for further varietal evaluation, marker-assisted selection and breeding programmes aimed at developing blast-resistant rice cultivars for blast-endemic regions.

Screening and Identification of Cellulolytic Bacteria from Organic Waste for Antifungal Applications

2026-06-17T12:35:18+00:00

Municipal solid waste and related organic residues contain lignocellulosic materials that support the growth of cellulose-degrading microorganisms. In the present study, cellulolytic bacteria were isolated from organic waste collected from different locations in Dal Lake and the SKUAST-K Shalimar campus, Srinagar, and their antifungal activity was evaluated under in vitro conditions. A total of 27 samples representing agricultural waste, aquatic weeds and kitchen waste were processed through serial dilution and cultured on nutrient agar. The isolates were subsequently screened for cellulolytic activity on carboxymethyl cellulose agar using Congo red staining. Twenty-eight cellulolytic bacterial isolates were obtained, of which five isolates showing the highest zones of hydrolysis were selected for further study. These isolates, designated CB1, CB2, CB3, CB4 and CB5, were characterised using colony morphology, Gram staining and biochemical tests. All selected isolates were Gram-positive, rod-shaped and catalase-positive, and were tentatively identified as belonging to the genus Bacillus. Their antagonistic activity was tested against Fusarium oxysporum and Venturia inaequalis. All five isolates inhibited the growth of both fungal pathogens. Against Fusarium oxysporum, inhibition ranged from 33.35% to 61.02%, with isolate CB2 showing the highest inhibition. Against Venturia inaequalis, inhibition ranged from 14.6% to 21.34%, and CB2 again showed the highest inhibition. The findings indicate that organic waste can serve as a source of cellulolytic bacterial isolates with measurable antifungal activity under laboratory conditions. These isolates may be useful for further evaluation in cellulose degradation and preliminary biocontrol studies, although their field-level performance requires validation through additional targeted testing under controlled conditions.

Integrated Approaches for Controlling Sugarcane Red Rot Disease to Sustain Ethanol Production from Sugarcane

2026-06-15T11:32:05+00:00

In recent times, sugarcane has become a preferred crop for renewable and eco-friendly energy production, contributing significantly to sustainable energy development and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. The improvement of sugarcane productivity depends on the crop varieties, growth environments, and management practices. Expected rise in demand for energy has improved the scope of sugarcane production. In order to fulfill the rising demands of sugar and ethanol, it has to develop into a complex scientific study with the goal to produce the greatest amount of agricultural produce in the least amount of area, and time. Due to the fast expanding population, increased per capita sugar consumption, and growing demand for ethanol as a biofuel, more sugar must be produced. Red rot of disease is a major hindrance in ethanol production from sugarcane thereby affecting the overall efficiency and economic viability of ethanol production. Severe disease outbreaks can lead to substantial economic losses for farmers, sugar industries, and bioethanol producers. The emergence of new pathogenic races and the breakdown of host resistance in commercial cultivars further complicate disease management and threaten the sustainability of ethanol production systems. To address these challenges, strategies have emerged for controlling red rot disease include combined use of resistant cultivars, disease-free seed cane, crop sanitation, field monitoring, crop rotation, balanced nutrient management, biological control agents, and need-based fungicide applications. Recent advances in molecular breeding, pathogen diagnostics, and genomic-assisted selection have further strengthened efforts to develop durable red rot-resistant varieties. Therefore, the implementation of comprehensive red rot management strategies is essential for sustaining sugarcane productivity, ensuring a stable supply of feedstock for ethanol production, and supporting the long-term growth of the biofuel industry in an environmentally sustainable manner. Therefore, sophisticated scientific research is required with the objective of producing disease free canes with higher production rate in order to meet the growing demands of ethanol from sugarcane.

Synthesis, Characterisation and Photocatalytic Dye Degradation Analysis of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles from Fruit Extract of Manilkara zapota

2026-06-15T08:54:43+00:00

Green synthesis of metal oxide nanoparticles using plant extracts offers an eco-friendly and sustainable approach for developing effective photocatalysts for environmental remediation. The present study reports the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) using aqueous fruit extract of Manilkara zapota as a reducing and stabilising agent, with zinc nitrate as the precursor salt. The synthesised nanoparticles were characterised using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray Analysis (EDX), and X-ray Diffraction (XRD). FT-IR analysis revealed the presence of hydroxyl, amine, carbonyl, and alkyl functional groups involved in nanoparticle formation and stabilisation. FESEM micrographs showed predominantly spherical nanoparticles with slight agglomeration and an average particle size of approximately 35 nm. EDX analysis confirmed the elemental composition of zinc and oxygen, while XRD patterns verified the crystalline wurtzite structure of ZnO with an average crystallite size of 26.99 nm. The antioxidant potential of the nanoparticles was evaluated using the DPPH free radical scavenging assay and demonstrated appreciable antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the photocatalytic performance of the ZnO nanoparticles was assessed using methylene blue dye as a model pollutant under xenon lamp irradiation. The nanoparticles exhibited significant dye degradation efficiency, with degradation increasing progressively with irradiation time. The enhanced photocatalytic activity was attributed to the nanoscale size, high surface area, and abundance of active catalytic sites. The study demonstrates that Manilkara zapota-mediated ZnO nanoparticles are environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and promising materials for wastewater treatment and environmental remediation applications.

Assessment of Heterosis for Yield and Associated Traits in Sponge Gourd [Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.]

2026-06-15T08:46:15+00:00

Sponge gourd [Luffa cylindrica (L.) Roem.] is an important cucurbitaceous vegetable crop cultivated worldwide during the summer and rainy seasons. The crop exhibits considerable genetic variability for growth, flowering, yield, and fruit quality traits, providing substantial scope for genetic improvement through breeding. The development of high-yielding and early-maturing hybrids using diverse parental lines is considered an effective strategy for enhancing productivity and meeting the increasing demand for this crop. An experiment was conducted to estimate heterosis for the yield characteristics of sponge gourd. A total of twenty-seven F₁ hybrids were developed using a line × tester mating design. These hybrids, along with nine lines, three testers, and one commercial check, were evaluated in a randomized block design with three replications during summer 2025 at Vegetable Research Centre, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand. Heterosis was calculated from the mean values of the F₁ hybrids across three replicates. The best heterotic cross for fruit yield per plant was Pusa Sneha × Kashi Divya. This cross also exhibited significant heterosis for days to first male and female flower, days to first harvest, vine length, flesh thickness, and number of fruits per vine. Cross Pusa Sneha × Kashi Divya (112.28%), Kashi Shreya × Swarna Prabha (42.42%), and Pusa Sneha × Pant Chikni Torai-1 (38.39%) were found to be the best heterotic combinations as they exhibited significant heterosis percentage for fruit yield per plant over the commercial check (Pusa Chikni). The crosses Kashi Kalyani × Pant Chikni Torai-1 and Kashi Shreya × Swarna Prabha were found to be the most promising for earliness as they showed significant negative heterosis over mid-parent, better parent and commercial check.

Eco-Frienly Synthesis, Characterization, Antioxidant and Photocatalytic Dye Degradation Activities of Zirconium Oxide Nanoparticles from Aqueous Extract of Amaranthus campestris

2026-06-12T12:16:41+00:00

ZrO2 nanoparticles were synthesized using an environmentally friendly process. The synthesis involved zirconium oxynitrate, NaOH, and deionized water to produce zirconium oxide (ZrO2) nanoparticles. Initially, Zirconium oxychloride octahydrate was dissolved in distilled water and stirred for a duration of 30 minutes. Subsequently, the Amaranthus campestris plant extract was incorporated into the zirconium oxynitrate solution and stirred at a temperature range of 40-45°C, followed by the addition of a small quantity of NaOH to the mixture. The resulting solution underwent centrifugation five times, and the resultant powder was subjected to annealing at 500°C for two hours. The synthesised ZrO₂ nanoparticles were characterised using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), and photocatalytic analyses. XRD results confirmed the formation of tetragonal-phase ZrO₂ nanoparticles with an average crystallite size of approximately 15 nm. FESEM observations indicated the formation of crystallites accompanied by agglomeration. UV-Visible optical studies demonstrated a sharp transition, with the corresponding bandgap measured at 5.5 eV. The antioxidant properties of the green-synthesized ZrO2 nanoparticles were assessed using the DPPH assay method, with ascorbic acid serving as a control. The synthesised zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) nanoparticles demonstrated considerable antioxidant activity when compared with the reference standard, ascorbic acid. To evaluate their photocatalytic performance, ZrO₂ nanoparticles at a concentration of 1 g/L were dispersed in 50 mL of methylene blue (MB) dye solution and maintained in a photoreactor under visible light irradiation to examine dye degradation. The experimental findings confirmed that the nanoparticles effectively facilitated the degradation of MB dye under visible light exposure. Following 120 minutes of irradiation, the photocatalytic degradation efficiency was determined to be 78%.

Immunomodulatory Effects of Ethanolic Rhizome Extracts of Drynaria quercifolia (L.) J. Sm and Curcuma aeruginosa Roxb. on Inflammatory Gene Expression in Non- induced THP-1 Monocytes

2026-06-11T13:02:46+00:00

Macrophages play a central role in the inflammatory processes associated with gout, particularly through the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines in response to monosodium urate (MSU) crystals. The present study investigated the cellular immunomodulatory effects of ethanolic rhizome extracts of Drynaria quercifolia and Curcuma aeruginosa using a human THP-1 monocytic cell model under non-induced conditions. Cytocompatibility was first assessed using the MTT assay, and sub-cytotoxic concentrations were selected for downstream analysis. Both extracts exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxicity, with IC₅₀ values of 40.94 µg/mL and 48.18 µg/mL, respectively. At a sub-cytotoxic concentration (20 µg/mL), the transcriptional modulation of key inflammatory mediators, including TNF-α, IL-6, COX-2, and iNOS, was evaluated using RT-qPCR. Both extracts significantly downregulated TNF-α, IL-6, and COX-2 expression relative to untreated controls. In contrast, iNOS expression was upregulated, with a more pronounced effect observed for D. quercifolia. These findings indicate a differential regulation of inflammatory gene expression in THP-1 cells under basal conditions. Thus, the results suggest that the rhizome extracts exhibit intrinsic immunomodulatory activity rather than direct anti-inflammatory effects in the absence of external inflammatory stimulation. This study provides preliminary evidence that these rhizome extracts possess intrinsic immunomodulatory activity in non-induced THP-1 monocytes and warrant further investigation in disease-relevant inflammatory models.

Molecular Breeding in Vegetables: Transition from Marker Assisted Selection to Genomic Strategies

2026-06-09T12:46:18+00:00

Recent advances in molecular genetics and genomics have significantly revolutionized plant breeding by facilitating the precise detection and characterization of genetic variation at the DNA level. Molecular markers, which are identifiable DNA sequences associated with specific genomic regions, serve as reliable tools for the identification and tracking of desirable agronomic traits. Unlike phenotypic selection, molecular marker–based approaches are largely independent of environmental influences and developmental stages, thereby enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of selection. Marker Assisted Selection (MAS) integrates molecular marker technology with conventional breeding methodologies to enable indirect selection of target traits through marker–trait associations. The present review provides a comprehensive overview of the application of MAS in vegetable crop improvement, highlighting its transition from conventional to genomic breeding approaches. Vegetable crops are vital for global nutrition and agricultural sustainability; however, their productivity is significantly constrained by biotic and abiotic stresses. Conventional breeding methods, although effective, are often time consuming and limited by environmental influences and complex trait inheritance. MAS offers a precise and efficient alternative by enabling selection at the DNA level through marker–trait associations. The review discusses the conceptual framework, types of molecular markers, and genetic principles underlying MAS, including linkage, recombination, and quantitative trait loci (QTLs). Key strategies such as marker assisted backcrossing, gene pyramiding, and marker assisted recurrent selection are examined in detail. The integration of MAS with genomic selection and advanced tools such as high throughput genotyping and genome editing is also emphasized. Applications of MAS in improving disease resistance, abiotic stress tolerance, yield, quality traits, and sex expression in crops like tomato, chilli, and cucumber are critically analyzed. Despite challenges such as high costs and limited marker availability for complex traits, MAS continues to enhance breeding efficiency. Future prospects indicate its growing role in developing climate resilient and high quality vegetable cultivars.

Salinity Stress and Adaptive Responses in Strawberry: Mechanisms, Microbial and Nano-technological Interventions, Breeding Strategies, and Future Perspectives

2026-06-05T12:57:12+00:00

Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) is highly sensitive to salinity, which increasingly threatens production in salt-affected agricultural regions. Salt reduces strawberry’s growth and productivity via osmotic stress, toxic ions, nutritional imbalance, oxidative damage, reduced photosynthesis, and other metabolic damages, resulting in lower fruit yield and quality. This review provides an overview of the literature regarding physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms involved in strawberry responses to salinity. It places particular emphasis on both osmotic and ionic effects caused by salt, disruption of potassium/sodium balance, reactive oxygen species (ROS) formation, antioxidant defence mechanisms, osmoregulation, hormonal regulation, and transcriptional reprogramming associated with salinity adaptation.

This review also describes significant variability among cultivated strawberry varieties and wild Fragaria species in their ability to withstand salt stress and highlights their potential as genetic resources for developing salt-tolerant cultivars. Strategies for alleviating salinity stress using emerging biological and agronomic approaches are discussed, including silicon- and selenium-based nanomaterials, biostimulants, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), and beneficial endophytic fungi. Particular emphasis is given to Piriformospora indica as a promising root endophyte capable of improving nutrient uptake, ion homeostasis, antioxidant activity, and stress resilience under saline conditions. Recent advances in systems biology, multi-omics approaches, microbiome engineering, nanotechnology, and predictive breeding are also discussed in relation to the development of climate-resilient strawberry production systems. Finally, this review identifies important research gaps, including the need for long-term field-scale studies, improved integration of physiological and molecular datasets, and a better understanding of synergistic biological interactions under salinity stress. A multidisciplinary framework is proposed to support the development of biologically based and sustainable strategies for improving strawberry productivity, fruit quality, and tolerance to increasing soil salinization.

Although there is much information that has been published on how strawberries respond to salt (salinity) and how this can be utilized for better growth, there are still many large gaps within strawberry research for long term verification of biological interventions under field conditions; utilization of multi-omics data sets for integration with various types of omics data; developing methods for modifying microbial communities; and utilizing genomics as an aid in plant breeding to develop salinity-resistant strawberry crops.

In vitro Regeneration of Hymenodictyon orixense (Roxb.) Mabb., a Highly Valuable Tree Species of Rubiaceae Family

2026-06-04T08:51:37+00:00

Hymenodictyon orixense (Roxb.) Mabb. (Rubiaceae) also called as Bridal Couch tree, is a medicinal tree species parts of which are rich source of bioactive metabolites imparting the plant an impressive antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic activities. Early loss of viability in seeds, lack of optimized propagation methods and increased anthropogenic pressure has led to conservation concern in this valuable tree species. The paper presents a robust in vitro propagation protocol for mass multiplication of H. orixense through seedling explants. In vitro seed germination was done in basal Murashige & Skoog’s (MS) medium and nodal segments from aseptically grown seedlings were used for further culture establishment. MS medium supplemented with 0.25 mg L^-1 kinetin was found optimal producing the highest mean shoot number (7.67 ± 0.88) and mean shoot length (4.91 ± 0.15cm). The addition of 0.025 mgL^-1 GA₃during shoot multiplication cycle enhanced the shoot length to a mean 8.49 ± 0.33 cm nearly double the shoot length achieved with kinetin alone. Root formation was 100% with ½ strength MS medium containing 1 mg L^-1 IAA and 0.025 mg L^-1 kinetin with highest mean number of roots. A 15-day cycle in optimized medium without gelling agent enhanced the quality of in vitro roots and developed plantlets were successfully acclimatized under greenhouse conditions with 85% survival. As the species possesses considerable medicinal importance, the propagation method described in the present study offers significant potential for the large-scale multiplication of selected genotypes exhibiting superior phytochemical characteristics. Furthermore, this approach may serve as an effective strategy for the ex situ conservation of the species, thereby contributing to its sustainable utilisation and long-term preservation.

Haplotype-Resolved Genomics for Complex Crop Genomes: Technologies, Insights, and Breeding Applications

2026-06-02T12:21:57+00:00

The significance of haplotype-resolved genome assemblies, which enable the reconstruction of individual chromosomal copies while preserving allele-specific variation, has been brought to light by recent advances in plant genomics. The techniques provide a better representation of genetic variation than traditional genome assemblies, which recombine the homologous sequences into one consensus, especially in heterozygous and polyploid crops. This review explains the role of haplotype-resolved assemblies in enhancing our understanding of genome evolution, conducting research on allele-specific expression, and improving the accuracy of genomes. Important technologies are also discussed, including trio binning and phasing techniques, long-read sequencing (PacBio HiFi and Nanopore), and Hi-C scaffolding. They have been used to detect key characteristics and support the breeding process of crops like potatoes, wheat, grapevine, and cassava. All things considered, these methods have a great deal of potential to generate high-yielding, stress-tolerant cultivars and accelerate crop improvement.

Dissection of Quantitative Genetic Variability and Heritability for Phenological and Yield Component Traits in Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.)

2026-06-02T10:29:33+00:00

Chickpea breeding is constrained by a narrow genetic base and limited natural outcrossing, necessitating the identification of diverse parental lines to broaden genetic variation and enhance pre-breeding efforts. Given the lack of information on crossability variation within cultivated chickpea, this study evaluated a targeted set of diverse accessions to explore potential differences in crossability that could facilitate the utilization of genetic resources in breeding programs. The objective of this study was to determine the genetic variability, estimate the heritability and genetic advance for the 13 quantitative traits from a diverse panel of chickpea germplasm, consisting of ten accessions of desi and kabuli each along with four checks. The substantial amounts of genetic variability were shown with significant differences between genotypes for all traits, which provides ample opportunity for effective crop improvement. The high level of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation for the number of tertiary branches and the number of apical secondary branches indicated that there is opportunity for improvement of these traits. The broad-sense heritability estimates were relatively high for most of the evaluated traits, with the highest estimates for the number of days to 50% flowering, 100 seed weight, and number of days to maturity, indicating strong genetic control over the expression of the trait. The 100-seed weight shown high levels of heritability and genetic advance as a percent of the mean which indicated predominant additive gene action and direct phenotypic selection will be effective. Therefore, the evaluated accessions could provide parental lines for future chickpea breeding programs for improving yield and diversifying the genetic base of the crop.

Comparative in vitro Evaluation of Botanical Extracts and Chemical Fungicides against Alternaria brassicae: Concentration-dependent Efficacy Assessment for Sustainable Disease Management

2026-06-01T12:17:21+00:00

Alternaria brassicae causes devastating blight in Brassica crops, leading to yield losses of up to 71% across major growing regions. Traditional chemical fungicide management raises concerns about environmental persistence, resistance development, and residue accumulation. Botanical extracts offer sustainable alternatives through bioactive antifungal compounds. This study evaluated and compared the in vitro antifungal efficacy of botanical extracts and chemical fungicides against A. brassicae through concentration-dependent assessment to determine effective concentrations, characterise inhibition patterns, and identify sustainable alternatives for disease management in mustard cultivation systems. It was hypothesised that botanical extracts would demonstrate significant, concentration-dependent antifungal activity against A. brassicae, though chemical fungicides would achieve superior pathogen suppression. These findings confirm the study hypothesis. A key limitation of this study is that all experiments were conducted under controlled in vitro conditions; field validation is required before these findings can be applied to commercial disease management. Five botanical extracts (garlic, ginger, turmeric, tulsi, lantana) at 2.5%, 5%, and 10% concentrations, and five fungicides (Carbendazim+Mancozeb, Difenoconazole, Fluxapyroxad, Penflufen, Trifloxystrobin) at 0.025%, 0.05%, and 0.1% concentrations were evaluated using the poisoned food technique on PDA medium. Radial growth inhibition was calculated using Vincent’s formula, with appropriate statistical analysis. Botanical extracts showed concentration-dependent inhibition, with garlic achieving the highest efficacy (66.44% at 10%), followed by turmeric (66.00%), tulsi (64.00%), ginger (63.44%), and lantana (60.78%). Fungicides demonstrated superior inhibition, with four achieving complete suppression (100%) at 0.1%: Carbendazim + Mancozeb (98.13% at 0.025%), Trifloxystrobin (97.18%), Difenoconazole (96.83%), and Fluxapyroxad (96.56%). Penflufen showed incomplete inhibition (97.78% at 0.1%). All treatments exhibited significant dose-dependent responses. Chemical fungicides provide superior pathogen suppression, but botanical extracts, particularly garlic and turmeric, offer promising, sustainable alternatives with substantial antifungal activity. Concentration-dependent efficacy patterns support optimized dosing strategies. Integrating botanical extracts with reduced fungicide applications represents a viable, eco-friendly approach to sustainable management of Alternaria blight in mustard production systems.

Nanotechnology Applications in Plant Disease Diagnosis and Management: A Review

2026-05-28T09:29:24+00:00

Plant diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and other phytopathogens represent a major challenge to global agriculture and food security, leading to approximately 20–40% annual crop losses worldwide. Traditional methods of disease diagnosis and management are often limited by delayed detection, low sensitivity, excessive dependence on chemical pesticides, environmental pollution, and the emergence of resistant pathogen strains. In this context, nanotechnology has emerged as a highly promising and innovative strategy for enhancing plant disease detection, monitoring, and management through the use of nanoscale materials and advanced delivery systems. Various nanomaterials such as silver nanoparticles, copper nanoparticles, zinc oxide nanoparticles, titanium dioxide nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, graphene oxide, polymeric nanoparticles, and silica-based nanomaterials exhibit unique physicochemical characteristics including large surface area, high reactivity, improved stability, and controlled-release properties that enhance their agricultural effectiveness. Nano-enabled diagnostic technologies, including nanosensors, nanobiosensors, quantum dot-based sensors, and nanoparticle-assisted molecular diagnostics, facilitate rapid, sensitive, and real-time detection of plant pathogens even at very low concentrations. In disease management, nanotechnology-based formulations such as nanopesticides, nanofungicides, nanobactericides, and nanoencapsulated agrochemicals improve antimicrobial efficiency while reducing chemical dosage and minimizing environmental hazards. Nanoparticles inhibit pathogens through multiple mechanisms including reactive oxygen species generation, disruption of cell membranes, intracellular damage, and alteration of microbial gene expression. In addition, nanotechnology supports controlled agrochemical delivery, seed treatment, activation of plant defense responses, and precision crop protection systems. Despite these advances, concerns regarding nanotoxicity, bioaccumulation, environmental persistence, and adverse effects on beneficial microorganisms necessitate comprehensive biosafety assessments and regulatory evaluation before large-scale agricultural adoption. Eco-friendly synthesis approaches, particularly green and biologically mediated nanoparticle production methods, are gaining increasing attention because of their reduced toxicity and environmental compatibility. Furthermore, the integration of nanotechnology with artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, and precision agriculture technologies is expected to transform future plant disease diagnosis and sustainable crop protection systems.

Genetic Diversity and Multivariate Analysis of Yield-Attributing Traits in Groundnut (Arachis hypogea L.)

2026-05-27T08:07:17+00:00

Groundnut yield improvement depends on the availability of genetically diverse genotypes possessing desirable yield and quality traits. Evaluating genetic variability, trait associations and multivariate diversity among genotypes helps breeders identify superior parents for developing high-yielding and quality cultivars. This study evaluated genetic variability, trait associations and selection efficiency in twenty-three groundnut genotypes. Kernel traits varied widely, with 100-kernel weight (25-38 g), sound mature kernel (SMK) weight (23-35 g) and SMK percentage (86-95%). Pod yield (3314-4970 kg ha^-1) and kernel yield (2156-2967 kg ha^-1) also showed considerable variability. Kernel yield exhibited a strong positive association and high direct effect on pod yield, indicating its usefulness as a selection criterion, although negative correlations with quality traits suggested a trade-off between yield and quality traits. Principal component analysis showed that the first three components explained 80.83% of total variation with PC1 alone contributing 46.41%. Cluster analysis grouped genotypes into four clusters, with Cluster IV showing superior yield performance. The genotypes K-9, K 2658, K 2660 and K 2659 grouped in Cluster II, showed moderate yield, desirable quality traits and early flowering. Therefore, the genotypes in Cluster IV and II, can be used as parents for developing high-quality and high-yielding groundnut cultivars.

Pteridophytic Responses to Heavy Metal and Atmospheric Pollution across Ecological Zones of Chhindwara District, Madhya Pradesh, India

2026-05-23T12:48:10+00:00

Pteridophytes are highly sensitive vascular plants whose distribution and physiological responses reflect changes in environmental conditions such as pollution, habitat disturbance, and climatic stress, making them effective bioindicators of ecosystem health. In the ecologically diverse Chhindwara district of Madhya Pradesh, increasing mining, industrialization, and urbanization have altered natural habitats, necessitating the use of pteridophytes to assess heavy metal contamination, air quality deterioration, and freshwater ecosystem changes. The present study evaluates the role of pteridophytes as bioindicators of environmental health across different ecological zones of Chhindwara district, Madhya Pradesh. Field surveys, species assessment, and physiological analyses were conducted in three ecological zones: Zone A (Patalkot and Tamia Hills), Zone B (mining belts of Parasia and Junnardeo), and Zone C (urban-industrial regions). The results revealed significant variations in pteridophyte distribution and physiological responses under different environmental stresses. In mining-affected Zone B, Pteris vittata showed strong heavy metal accumulation with a Bioaccumulation Factor (BAF) greater than 1.5 for arsenic and lead, indicating severe soil contamination. In industrial and urban regions of Zone C, Adiantum species exhibited nearly 30% reduction in chlorophyll content along with reduced stomatal density due to atmospheric pollutants such as SO₂ and particulate matter. In contrast, the undisturbed forest ecosystems of Zone A supported Cyathea spinulosa, indicating stable and humid climax forest conditions. Aquatic pteridophytes such as Azolla pinnata and Marsilea minuta reflected nutrient enrichment and eutrophication in local water bodies. The study demonstrates that pteridophytes serve as efficient and cost-effective bioindicators for monitoring heavy metal pollution, air quality deterioration, habitat degradation, and freshwater ecosystem changes. These findings highlight their ecological significance in environmental monitoring and biodiversity conservation in the Satpura region.

Influence of Seaweed Extract on the Amount of Phosphorus Fertilizer for Onion Production

2026-05-19T11:54:49+00:00

Phosphorus (P) is an essential nutrient for onion (Allium cepa L.) growth and bulb formation; however, its low use efficiency due to soil fixation processes often leads to excessive fertilizer application, increasing production costs and environmental risks. This study investigated the potential of seaweed extract (SE) derived from Ascophyllum nodosum to reduce phosphorus fertilizer requirements in winter onion production while maintaining or improving growth, yield, and quality. A field experiment was conducted at the Horticultural Farm of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University, Dhaka, Bangladesh, during November 2024–March 2025 using a randomized complete block design with six treatments and six replications. Treatments comprised T₁ (100% recommended NPK dose, control), T₂ (90% P + 1 L ha⁻¹ SE), T₃ (80% P + 2 L ha⁻¹ SE), T₄ (70% P + 3 L ha⁻¹ SE), T₅ (60% P + 4 L ha⁻¹ SE), and T₆ (50% P + 5 L ha⁻¹ SE). Results demonstrated that treatment T₃ consistently outperformed all other treatments, recording the highest plant height (62.30 cm at 90 DAT), leaf number (6.60 at 90 DAT), pseudostem diameter (1.66 cm at 90 DAT), chlorophyll content (64.03 SPAD), individual bulb weight (69.5 g), and total yield (20.85 t ha⁻¹). Furthermore, T₃ produced superior bulb quality attributes, including vitamin C (5.49 mg 100 g⁻¹), total phenol content (6.26 mg g⁻¹), total chlorophyll (1.97 mg g⁻¹), and enhanced mineral composition (Na 1.59%, K 2.22%, S 1.24%). The lowest values for all parameters were observed in T₆. These findings indicate that integrating seaweed extract at 2 L ha⁻¹ with 80% of the recommended phosphorus dose (T₃) effectively compensates for reduced phosphorus input by improving nutrient use efficiency, photosynthetic capacity, and physiological performance. This sustainable approach reduces dependence on chemical fertilizers, lowers production costs, and minimizes environmental impacts while enhancing both productivity and nutritional quality of onion. Further research is recommended across different agro-ecological zones and onion varieties to validate these findings.

Evaluation of Genetic Variability, Correlation and Path Analysis for Yield and Yield Components in Local Rice Land Races of Tamil Nadu, India

2026-05-18T06:49:48+00:00

Traditional rice landraces of Tamil Nadu constitute an important reservoir of genetic diversity for yield and adaptive traits, offering valuable resources for rice improvement programmes. Assessing genetic variability, trait associations, and the direct and indirect effects of yield-contributing characters is essential for identifying effective selection criteria for the development of high-yielding rice cultivars.

The present investigation was carried out of assess the extent of genetic variability, association among traits and direct and indirect effects of yield contributing characters in traditional rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes. A total of 50 traditional rice genotypes were evaluated for thirteen quantitative characters. Analysis of variability revealed high phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for total number of grains per panicle, number of productive tillers per hill and flag leaf length indicating the existence of substantial variability among the genotypes. High heritability accompanied by high genetic advance as a percentage of the mean was recorded for the number of productive tillers per hill, total number of grains per panicle, filled grains per panicle, and unfilled grains per panicle, indicating the predominance of additive gene action in the inheritance of these traits. Such findings suggest that these characters may respond effectively to direct selection in breeding programmes.

Correlation analysis further demonstrated that single plant yield exhibited a significant and positive association with the number of productive tillers per hill, plant height, panicle weight, number of branches per panicle, filled grains per panicle, and total number of grains per panicle. These relationships highlight the importance of these yield-contributing traits in determining overall productivity.

Moreover, path coefficient analysis revealed that total number of grains per panicle, filled grains per panicle, and number of productive tillers per hill exerted strong positive direct effects on single plant yield. The results therefore emphasise that these traits constitute reliable and effective selection indices for the improvement of grain yield in traditional rice genotypes.

Integrated Multi-omics Approach for the Enhancement of Secondary Physiological Traits to Develop Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Cereal Breeding

2026-05-15T12:09:02+00:00

Abiotic stresses, particularly salinity, drought, and heat, pose severe threat to the productivity of major cereal crops, threatening global food security at a time when climate variability is intensifying. Conventional yield-based selection strategies have proven inadequate under these conditions, largely owing to the complexity of genotype × environment interactions that hide the true genetic potential of stress-tolerant lines. Consequently, attention has shifted toward secondary physiological traits as more dependable for stress adaptation. In rice, sodium exclusion capacity and sustained stomatal conductance have been closely associated with salinity tolerance, while in wheat, reduced canopy temperature and high stomatal conductance serve as meaningful markers of drought resilience and yield stability. In sorghum, stay-green lines demonstrate a remarkable capacity to sustain photosynthetic activity under water-deficit conditions, and in maize, reduced anthesis-silking interval alongside stay-green phenotypes confers a measurable advantage under drought stress.

Complementing these physiological insights, multi-omics approaches have substantially advanced our mechanistic understanding of stress adaptation at the molecular and metabolic levels. Metabolomic profiling of wheat and rice under drought conditions has revealed consistent patterns of soluble sugar and osmoprotectant accumulation, while genome-wide association studies and quantitative trait locus mapping have successfully pinpointed genomic regions governing stress-responsive phenotypes. When these molecular tools are coupled with high-throughput phenotyping platforms, the resulting framework offers both precision and scalability in breeding programmes. Collectively, this integrated strategy holds considerable promise for accelerating the development of climate-resilient grain varieties, stabilising crop yields under environmental adversity, and ultimately reducing the vulnerability of agricultural systems to the growing pressures of a changing climate.

Evaluation of Genetic Variation for Yield and Growth Traits in Different Types of Oats (Avena sativa L.)

2026-05-15T12:02:48+00:00

The majority of the crop produced by cultivars was sown in the spring, however in places with a high elevation, genotypes are sown in the autumn, and locations with sweltering summers. This present study aimed to examine the level of genetic diversity within different genotypes of Oats (Avena sativa L.) for yield and other growth characters during the rabi season (2025-26). The research trial was conducted during the rabi season of 2025-26 at the Agricultural Research Farm of Prof. Rajendra Singh (Rajju Bhaiya) University, Naini, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. In the present investigation, 13 Oats genotypes were evaluated in a randomized block design method having three replications. The purpose of this experiment was to determine the genetic variation, heritability, genetic advance, correlation coefficient, path coefficient and genetic diversity (D²) analysis for yield and its contributing factors. Data were collected for 18 traits. Based on analysis of variance, revealed significant differences among all genotypes for all eighteen characters, indicating the presence of considerable genetic variability. The phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) was more than genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) for all traits. Correlation analysis revealed that seed yield plant⁻¹ (g) exhibited highly significant positive association with seeds per panicle, tillers count per plant, leaves count per plant, width of flag leaf (cm) and harvest index (%). Path coefficient analysis indicated that seeds per panicle and Seed yield plot⁻¹ (kg) exerted the highest positive direct effect on seed yield plant⁻¹ (g). The Mahalanobis D² and Tocher’s cluster analysis methods were used to determine divergence based on genetic diversity within different Oats genotypes. The total number of genotypes were divided into five groups. Group I had the highest number of genotypes, while group IV and V had only one genotype each, which indicated high differentiation among the genotypes. The highest inter-group distance was found between group II and group V. The lowest inter-group distance was found between group I and group IV. Based on cluster mean performance, cluster II appeared to be superior for yield-related traits, whereas cluster III had high biological yield (kg) and maturity period. Therefore, it may be concluded that highly diverged clusters, such as clusters II and V.

Biochar-trichocompost Integration Enhances Soil Organic Carbon, CEC, and Stability in Char Lands Soil Restoration

2026-05-12T06:33:16+00:00

Soil degradation and declining organic carbon in vulnerable charland ecosystems threaten long-term agricultural productivity and sustainability. Integrating biochar and trichocompost offers a promising strategy to enhance soil health, improve nutrient retention, and increase carbon sequestration under sustainable farming systems.

This study evaluated the effects of rice husk biochar and trichocompost on soil properties through a two-year field experiment (2022–2024) conducted at two charland sites in Munshiganj, Bangladesh. Two cropping systems—Potato–Groundnut–T. aman and Potato–Mungbean–T. aman—were tested in a randomised complete block design with ten treatments combining biochar (2–3 t ha⁻¹), trichocompost (1 t ha⁻¹), and chemical fertilisers at 100% or 75% of the recommended dose. Soil organic carbon (SOC), cation exchange capacity (CEC), microbial biomass carbon (MBC), pH, and aggregate stability were assessed.

Integrated nutrient management significantly improved soil health in both systems. Macroaggregate stability increased to 64% and 63% in groundnut and mungbean systems, respectively, while microaggregate fractions declined. SOC increased to 0.90% and 0.99%, with SOC stock reaching 18.67 and 19.83 Mg ha⁻¹ and carbon sequestration of 841 and 1032 kg ha⁻¹ in mungbean and groundnut pattern, respectively. Microbial biomass carbon maximized at 385 ppm (groundnut) and at 459 ppm (mungbean) pH improved to 5.36 and 5.95, whereas CEC maximised at 14.59 and 15.74 meq 100 g⁻¹, respectively.

Overall, both the two cropping patterns performed well, the mungbean pattern consistently performed better than the groundnut rotation for SOC, pH, CEC, and microbial populations, thereby confirming the more important contribution to maintaining soil health.

These findings demonstrate that integrating biochar and trichocompost with reduced fertiliser inputs improves soil health and carbon sequestration in charland agroecosystems.

Genetic Divergence and Principal Component Analysis for Seed Yield and Yield- contributing Traits in Field Pea (Pisum sativum L.)

2026-05-11T06:39:16+00:00

Background: Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is a nutritionally important legume, but its productivity is constrained by a narrow genetic base, limiting scope for yield improvement. Therefore, assessing genetic divergence and variability using multivariate tools like D² analysis and PCA is essential to identify diverse genotypes and key yield-contributing traits for effective breeding programs.

Aim: Field pea (Pisum sativum L.) is a nutritionally rich and economically important cool-season legume that plays a key role in sustainable cropping systems. However, the narrow genetic base of cultivated germplasm limits the scope for yield enhancement and genetic improvement. Hence, the present investigation was undertaken to evaluate genetic divergence and analyze trait variability among field pea genotypes using multivariate approaches such as principal component analysis, in order to identify diverse and promising parental lines for future breeding programs.

Study Design: The study used three replications in randomized complete block design (RCBD).

Place and Duration: The experiment was conducted during the rabi growing season 2019-2020, at the Breeder Seed Production Unit, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, College of Agriculture, JNKVV, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh.

Methodology: The present study, 40 field pea genotypes were analyzed for genetic diversity using Mahalanobis's D² statistics and principal component analysis (PCA). 19 key quantitative traits were recorded and genotypes were grouped into 10 clusters based on genetic distance using tocher’s procedure.

Results: Genetics divergence and principal component analysis (PCA) were applied to assess seed yield and yield-contributing traits in field pea germplasm. The genotypes under the experiment were grouped into 10 clusters based on genetic divergence analysis. The highest number of genotypes found in cluster I. the highest intra cluster distance was found in cluster III followed by cluster I. the highest inter cluster divergence was observed between genotypes of cluster IV and X followed by cluster V and X. Cluster IX have early flowering and maturity genotypes. Pod cluster per plant has highest value in cluster I followed by plant height and pod bearing length has highest value in cluster III. According to Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated that the out of 19, only 6 principal components exhibited more than 1.0 eigen value and showed 81.66% of the total variance. The first principal component accounted for 27.51% of the variability and was mainly associated with yield-related traits. The genotypes FP-14-34, Lep-260 and FP-14-36 has highest positive PC values for yield-related traits. Yield-related traits exhibited the highest loading values on the principal components, with number of nodes per plant identified as the most important trait contributing to separation and should therefore be prioritized for future breeding programmes.

Conclusion: The present investigation revealed substantial genetic divergence among field pea (Pisum sativum L.) genotypes, confirming the utility of D² analysis and principal component analysis in characterizing genetic variability. The identification of diverse clusters and key yield-contributing traits offers valuable insights for the selection of superior and genetically divergent parents. The use of such genotypes in hybridization programmes is expected to enhance recombination efficiency and facilitate the development of high-yielding field pea varieties.