institute of Bioproduct Development, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor, Malaysia. 2Centre for Diploma Studies, Universiti Tun Hussein Onn Malaysia, Pagoh Higher Education Hub, 84600 Pagoh, Johor, Malaysia. Corresponding e-mail: norhazimah@uthm.edu.my
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.43
Key words: Vinegar, pickling, tropical fruit, preserve food, traditional foods, functional foods, shelf life
Abstract: Vinegar pickling is a traditional food preservation method; nevertheless, scientific evaluation and industrial standardization of tropical fruits are limited. The emerging potential of unripe tropical fruits in vinegar-based pickling systems was examined in terms of health-oriented and sustainable food trends. Vinegar pickling of tropical fruits involves immersion in an acidified solution to inhibit microbial proliferation, extend shelf life, and develop desirable sensory attributes. Existing limitations, including flavor imbalance, textural degradation, and the absence of standardized processing protocols were analyzed. Consumer perceptions and market dynamics were reviewed, indicating an increasing demand for natural, functional, and value-added food products. Selected innovations, such as the utilization of natural vinegar sources, bioactive enrichment, intelligent processing, and smart manufacturing were summarized to illustrate potential improvements in product quality and consumer appeal. The limited scientific literature on this integrated perspective underscores the timeliness of this mini review for further investigation. This mini review aims to position vinegar pickling as a preservation strategy and platform for integrating traditional practices with functional food development.
K. Aswathi1, T.S Aswathy2, Deepa S. Nair1, J. Jiji Allen3 and G.S. Sreekala1
1Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India, 2Department of Horticulture, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala Agricultural University, Palakkad, India, 3Department of Horticulture, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Palakkad, Kerala Agricultural University, India. Corresponding e-mail: aswathik208@gmail.com
Abstract: A nursery experiment was carried out at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Kerala, India, during November 2024 to January 2025 to standardize an efficient propagation method for peppermint (Mentha piperita L.) under pro-tray nursery conditions. The experiment evaluated the performance of three node stem cuttings with leaves obtained from different portions of the mother plant namely apical (7.5 cm), middle (8.5 cm) and basal (9.5 cm) in five rooting media comprising cocopeat alone; cocopeat + farmyard manure (1:1, w/w); cocopeat + vermicompost (1:1, w/w); cocopeat + farmyard manure + vermicompost (1:0.5:0.5, w/w); and cocopeat + vermiculite + perlite (1:1:1, w/w). The experiment was laid out in a factorial completely randomized design with three replications. The results revealed significant effects of cutting type, rooting medium and their interaction on all growth and rooting parameters studied. Among the cutting types, apical cuttings exhibited superior sprouting percentage, faster root initiation, greater shoot length and higher shoot biomass compared to middle and basal cuttings. With respect to rooting media, the cocopeat and vermicompost mixture (1:1, w/w) was most effective, producing earlier rooting, increased root length and higher root biomass. The interaction treatment involving apical cuttings planted in cocopeat + vermicompost recorded the highest sprouting, earliest emergence, enhanced shoot growth, greater biomass accumulation, improved root volume and overall rooting efficiency. The findings of the study indicate that the use of three node apical stem cuttings combined with a 1:1 (w/w) mixture of cocopeat and vermicompost is the most suitable approach for achieving rapid, uniform, and efficient nursery-scale propagation of peppermint under pro-tray nursery conditions.
V. Prashantha*, H. S. Saritha, K.M. Shirisha, K. S. Priyanka, Channabasava, S. R. Spoorthi, G. S. Sunilkumar and A. Mohan Rao
Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, University of Agricultural Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru - 560065, Karnataka, India. *E-email: pprashanthav98@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.45
Key words: Bell pepper, genetic variability, coefficients of variation, heritability, quantitative traits, GCV, PCV, genetic advance
Abstract: Development of cultivars with superior yield and quality for polyhouse cultivation requires a thorough understanding of the available genetic variability. Therefore, the present study evaluated twenty bell pepper genotypes collected from diverse regions of India under polyhouse conditions at the University of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, during two consecutive kharif seasons (2023 and 2024). Data were recorded for seven quantitative traits to assess the extent of genetic variability and identify promising genotypes for polyhouse cultivation. Pooled analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed significant differences among the genotypes for all traits, indicating the presence of substantial genetic variability. The distribution of variability was visualised through frequency distribution histograms with expected normality. Most traits, except fruit length and width, exhibited high standardized range (SR), which was further reflected in the estimates of genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). The narrow difference between PCV and GCV estimates indicated limited environmental influence on trait expression. Furthermore, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance as a percentage of mean was observed for all traits, suggesting that simple selection would be effective for their improvement. Based on per se performance, the genotypes NS 280, Yolo Wonder and Indera were identified as superior for fruit yield. In contrast, Davangere Local, North Karnataka Local and Capsicum Jawari Dharwad were identified as potential donor parents for higher fruit number. Thus, the identified genotypes hold significant potential for strategic utilization in future bell pepper improvement programmes.
Fathimath Henna1*, J. Jiji Allen2, Deepa S. Nair1, T. S. Aswathy3, R.V. Manju4 and T.S. Swetha3
1Department of Plantation, Spices, Medicinal and Aromatic Crops, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India. 2Department of Horticulture, Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Palakkad, India. 3Department of Horticulture, Regional Agricultural Research Station, Pattambi, Palakkad, India. 4Department of Plant Physiology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Thiruvananthapuram, India. Corresponding e-mail: fathimathhenna99@gmail.com
Abstract: An experiment was conducted to assess the impact of various fertigation strategies on the production of ginger (Zingiber officinale Roscoe) seed rhizomes. The investigation encompassed six distinct regimes, employing a recommended dose of fertilizer (RDF) of 0.94: 0.63: 0.63 NPK g per plant, supplemented by 10% and 20% increments of the RDF. These fertilizer applications were administered according to two separate schedules, extending over 240 or 300 days after planting (DAP). Results indicated that higher nutrient doses enhanced vegetative growth and quality traits, whereas maximum yield was achieved with the RDF level applied up to 240 DAP. T1 (RDF up to 240 DAP) resulted in the highest tiller count (29.87) and rhizome weight (400.33 g). T5 (20% increased RDF up to 240 DAP) was superior in plant height (120.79 cm), leaf length (27.69 cm), leaf area (43.63 cm2), chlorophyll (2.37 mg g-1), and oleoresin (7.65%) content. T4 (20% increase in RDF) recorded the maximum number of leaves (27.80) and the highest root fresh weight (141.67 g). The most effective treatment for producing seed rhizomes, using plantlets grown from microrhizomes in a disease-free polyhouse, was the application of a specific ratio of nutrients (0.94: 0.63: 0.63 NPK g per plant) up to 240 days after planting.
Shivanand Koti1*, T.R. Ahlawat2, B.M. Tandel1, A.I. Patel3, Rehana Niyaria4, R.V. Tank1, A.K. Pandey1 and Vijay R. Zala5
1Department of Fruit Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India. 2Director of Research and Dean Post Graduate Studies, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India. 3Department of Vegetable Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. 4Department of Basic Science, ASPEE College of Horticulture, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari. 5Parul University, Vadodara, 391760. Corresponding e-mail: shivkoti36@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.47
Key words: Guava, anthesis, genotypic variability, floral biology, fruit set, floral morphology, fruit retention, anthesis
Abstract: A study was conducted to assess the variability in floral morphology, flowering behaviour, fruit set and retention among five guava (Psidium guajava L.) genotypes: Jarvi Red, Exotica, Sanjari, Yogi and VNR Bihi. Significant genotypic differences were recorded for floral traits. Yogi produced larger-sized flowers (2.29 cm in length; 4.23 cm in width), whereas Sanjari exhibited the maximum petal number (9) and VNR Bihi recorded the maximum stamens (576). Flower buds took between 29 and 45 days to develop in Exotica and VNR Bihi, respectively. Flowering duration extended from 37 days in Exotica to 51 days in VNR Bihi. The duration from anthesis to petal drop was similar across genotypes, while the flowering-to-fruiting period varied from 122 days (Yogi) to 138 days (VNR Bihi). Fruit set was maximum in Yogi (73.87%) and VNR Bihi (73.07%), accompanied by higher fruit retention and lower fruit drop, whereas Exotica showed the lowest values. There were also differences in the time of anthesis and anther dehiscence between the genotypes. VNR Bihi had a longer period of anthesis and dehiscence, which meant that pollen was available for a longer time. On the other hand, Sanjari and Yogi had early anthesis. VNR Bihi produced the fruits in both the terminal and the lateral flowers. Comparing all the studied genotypes, Yogi showed larger flowers, early maturity and superior fruit set and retention. VNR Bihi displayed prolonged flowering and late maturity. These results offer important information for breeding programs, crop management and varietal selection that aim to increase guava productivity.
Iman B. Abdulrahman and Ahmed F.Z. Al-Dulaimy2*
1Department of Horticulture, Ministry of Agriculture, Al Doura 10022, Iraq. 2Department of Horticulture and Landscape Gardening, College of Agriculture, University of Anbar, Ramadi -31001, Iraq. Corresponding e-mail: ag.ahmed.fatkhan@uoanbar.edu.iq
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.48
Key words: Date palm, fruits, nano-fertilizers, brassinolide, chitosan, qualitative traits, fruit quality, TSS, sugars
Abstract: This study was conducted with the aim of determining the effect of spraying with both the nano NPK fertilizer at the two concentrations (0 and 2 g L-1), and the growth regulator Brassinolide at the concentrations (0, 0.5 and 1.0 mg L-1), and the growth stimulant Chitosan (0, 1, and 2%) affected certain qualitative fruit traits. The study included 54 trees aged 20 years. The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized block design, the experiment included 18 treatments, with each tree considered an experimental unit. The results showed that spraying with NPK nano-fertilizer 2 g L?¹ had a significant effect on improving the qualitative traits of Khastawy date palm fruits, this treatment achieved the highest percentages for macronutrients (N, P and K), TSS, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars and total sugars with values reaching (1.54%, 0.42%, 1.87%, 66.34%, 31.73%, 25.31% and 57.04%), respectively. Spraying with Brassinolide significantly affected the following traits (phosphorus, TSS and total sugars), the treatment 1.0 mg L?¹ achieved the best percentages, reaching (0.42%, 70.15%, and 55.83%), respectively. As for the Chitosan spray treatments, they significantly affected the traits (percentages of non- reducing sugars and total sugars). The 2% concentration showed the best values for these traits, reaching (25.29% and 55.50%), respectively, while the concentrations 1 and 2% showed the highest percentage of nitrogen, reaching 1.53% for each concentration. Regarding the effect of two-way and three-way interaction between the study factors, the level of significance depended on the type of treatment and the trait studied.
institute of Fundamental and Applied Research, National Research University TIIAME, Tashkent, 100000, Uzbekistan. 2Urgench State University, Urgench 220100, Uzbekistan. 3Faculty of Biology, National University of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 100174, Uzbekistan. international Center for Strategic Development and Research (ISCAD), Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan, Tashkent 100140, Uzbekistan. Corresponding e-mail: egamberdievad@gmail.com
Abstract: Ginger is one of the most commonly used spices in food and beverages around the world. The essential oil extracted from ginger is potent and is recognized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antifungal properties. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis of ginger cultivation research from 1981 to 2024, based on 183 articles published in the Scopus database. The analysis examines annual publication trends, document types, most cited articles and top journals contributing to the field. The study highlights the main contributions to the academic discourse on ginger cultivation and examines the country and institutional affiliations of the authors. The findings offer valuable insights for researchers and agricultural practitioners, providing a comprehensive overview of the evolution of research in this field. Furthermore, enhancing international scientific collaboration on ginger research would be beneficial, particularly in fostering knowledge exchange between emerging and industrialized nations. Strengthening the connections between agricultural researchers, food scientists, and industry stakeholders could accelerate innovation and improve the commercial viability of ginger-based products.
Abhaya Kumar Sahu1, Atal Bhaktipriya1, Madhusmita Behera1, Beda Saurav Behera1, Pratik Priyadarshi Puhan1, Punam Kumari1,2* and Prabhat Kumar3
1Plant Stress Biology Laboratory, P.G. Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar, Balasore-756089, Odisha, India. 2Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Bioresource Management and Energy Conservation Material Development, Fakir Mohan University, Vyasa Vihar Balasore-756089, Odisha, India. 3Betel vine Research Center, Islampur, Bihar Agricultural University, Sabour Bhagalpur-813210, Bihar, India. Corresponding e-mail: punam.lifescience@gmail.com
Abstract: Betel vine (Piper betle) is an economically and medicinally important cash crop widely cultivated across coastal regions of Odisha, India. However, its productivity is often constrained by leaf spot disease, which causes massive losses in betel vine production. This study aims to identify the pathogen causing the disease in betel vine leaves collected from the Balasore district of Odisha, India. The pathogen was isolated and characterized based on its morphological and molecular traits. Molecular identification using the internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and RNA polymerase II beta subunit (RPB2) gene sequences revealed that the isolate shared high sequence similarity with Aspergillus ochraceopetaliformis through BLASTn (GenBank accession numbers: ITS-PQ238875; RPB2-PQ415739). To our knowledge, this is the first report of A. Ochraceopetaliformis associated with leaf spot disease in betel vine.
Era Lamba1*, Bas Kaur2 and Monika Sarsana3
1 Department of Sociology, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004, Haryana.. 2Assistant Professor, Department of Sociology, College of Basic Sciences and Humanities, CCS Haryana Agricultural University, Hisar-125004, Haryana. 3Assistant Professor, C.R. Law College, Hisar-125001, Haryana. E-mail: eralamba.9@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.51
Key words: Agricultural diversification, factor analysis, perception of farmers, socio-economic determinants and sustainability.
Abstract: The study examined the level of persuasion of farmers towards citrus cultivation as a viable and sustainable enterprise among existing citrus growers in Haryana, India. The present research was conducted in the districts of Sirsa, Hisar, and Fatehabad of Haryana. A survey was conducted on a sample of 180 farmers through structured interview schedule and the results were analysed with the use of descriptive and inferential statistics such as Relative Importance Index (RII), Chi-square test of independence and Factor analysis. The persuasion inventory showed a high level of internal consistency (Cronbach alpha = 0.917). The findings revealed that 62.22% of farmers had moderate persuasion levels toward citrus cultivation. Key persuasive factors were profitability, water-use efficiency, diversification, and employment generation (RII > 0.75). The weakest persuasive factors were inadequate postharvest infrastructure, and long gestation period (RII < 0.55). Socio-economic variables such as education, income, extension contact, and mass media exposure were in a highly significant (P < 0.01) association with the level of persuasion. The Factor analysis extracted five distinct components accounting for 63.14% of the total variance. The five components were: Institutional support, market assurance and risk perception; Economic and resource sustainability; Labour and soil considerations; Agronomic and postharvest practices; and Agro- climatic compatibility. Overall, citrus cultivation was perceived as a promising avenue for agricultural diversification in Haryana, though its wider adoption is dependent on strengthened institutional support especially in the areas of extension services and infrastructure.
P. V. Anjaly*, C. R. Manu, M. S. Nisha, Gavas Ragesh and O. P. Reji Rani
Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, Kerala, India Corresponding e-mail: anjalypv123@gmail.com
Abstract: The coconut rhinoceros beetle (CRB), Oryctes rhinoceros (L.) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae), is a major pest of coconut, causing more than 10 % yield loss. Adult beetles bore into unopened leaves and inflorescences, while grubs develop in decomposing organic matter. In this study, the infectivity of the entomopathogenic nematode (EPN) Heterorhabditis bacteriophora, multiplied in black soldier fly larvae (BSFL), Hermetia illucens L., was evaluated against all three larval instars of CRB using different doses of infective juveniles (IJs). All instars showed dose dependent mortality, with no mortality at very low doses (100-300 IJs per insect). In the first and second instars, mortality began at 500 IJs per insect and increased steadily with dose and time, reaching 100 % at 20000 IJs by 6 DAT (days after treatment) and at 10000 IJs by 10 DAT. At lower doses (500-1000 IJs), the first instar reached only about 35 % mortality, whereas the second instar showed slightly higher susceptibility, recording 46.67 % mortality by 12 DAT. The third instar was less susceptible, with mortality beginning later and reaching only 40 % at 20000 IJs by 12 DAT. A t-test comparing nematodes produced from BSFL and greater wax moth larvae (Galleria mellonella) indicated no significant difference in infectivity. The results confirm that H. bacteriophora is highly effective against the second instar of CRB. Even though wax moth larvae are the universal host for the multiplication of EPN, BSFL offer a simpler and efficient alternative host for producing these nematodes, supporting their use as a valuable tool in integrated pest management.
Jyoti Saini1, Samima Yeasmin1, Deepak Maurya1* and Vinod Jatav1
1School of Agricultural Sciences, GD Goenka University, Sohna-122 103, Gurugram, Haryana, India. Corresponding e-mail: mauryadeepak0077@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.53
Key words: Additive gene action, genetic advance, heritability, genotypic coefficient variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV)
Abstract: Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a major horticultural crop and enhancing yield through trait-based selection requires knowledge of genetic variability and trait associations. This study integrates morphological descriptors and genetic analysis to identify key yield traits and proposes a breeding ideotype for tomato under semi-arid conditions. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences among genotypes for all traits, confirming the presence of wide genetic variability in the study population. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance was recorded for average fruit weight, number of fruits per plant and fruit yield per plant, suggesting the predominance of additive gene action and effectiveness of direct selection. Fruit yield exhibited significant positive correlations with average fruit weight and number of fruits per plant, whereas path coefficient analysis confirmed their strong direct effects on yield. However, further generation-wise and molecular analyses are needed to confirm the mode of gene action across environments.
1Department of Economics, Faculty of Social Science and Humanities, Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science & Technology University, Dinajpur 2School of Economics and Finance, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, Shaanxi, China. 3Department of Economics, Pabna University of Science and Technology, Pabna-6600, Bangladesh. Corresponding e-mail: yahia.bapari@pust.ac.bd
Abstract: This paper examines the productive efficiency of litchi growers using the Stochastic Frontier Approach (SFA) based on primary data from 164 farmers. The model provides estimates of the effects of several important inputs, including fixed and variable land, labor, and fertilizers, and other farm resources, on litchi output, and?it also decomposes technical inefficiency from random shocks. The results show that litchi production is significantly and positively correlated with land size and human labor, highlighting scale effects and labor intensity in litchi cultivation. The adoption of chemical inputs, such as urea, TSP, and MoP, also has a positive coefficient, though the negative coefficient on DAP may indicate nutrient misuse or imbalance. Although pesticides are primarily used for pest management, their application can significantly increase crop production by reducing pest-related losses. On the other hand, the effects of irrigation cost and cow dung are weak or negative, suggesting the possibility of improving?water and organic input application. The technical efficiency of litchi growers is relatively high, with over 91% on the efficient frontier; yet economic efficiency varies with access to markets, input cost management, and ease of profitability. The paper argues that such output uncertainty is largely due to exogenous shocks rather than inefficiency, thereby underscoring the importance of risk management alongside technology adoption. Results are consistent with the Sustainable Development Goals in reducing global objectives for sustainable agriculture, decent work, responsible use of inputs, and climate resilience. The results are useful for policymakers in formulating measures to enhance litchi productivity and farmers’ income in the country by intervening in land access, labor productivity, input use management, and market linkage systems.
K. Ganesh Kadiyala1*, S. Hanumantha Rao2 and G. Srinivasa Rao3
1Department of Chemistry, Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women, Bhimavaram-534202, Andhra Pradesh, India. 2 Department of ECE, Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women, Bhimavaram-534202, Andhra Pradesh, India. 3Department of Mechanical Engineering, Shri Vishnu Engineering College for Women, Bhimavaram-534202, Andhra Pradesh, India. Corresponding e-mail: kganeshkadiyala@gmail.com
Abstract: Whitefly (Aleurodicus rugioperculatus) infestation poses a serious threat to coconut production, reducing nut development and oil quality. This study assessed an integrated pest management (IPM) approach and its impact on virgin coconut oil (VCO) yield and quality. A total of 205 palms across 3.5 acres were categorized as infested, under treatment, or recovered. Interventions included application of castor oil-smeared yellow sticky traps (1 per 3 trees, recoated every 15 days), foliar sprays of 3% neem oil at 10-15-day intervals, and placed naphthalene balls at the crown region (upper canopy, non-contact with nuts) under expert guidance. Oil was extracted from two batches of 800 nuts per group (n = 2) and analyzed at Intertek Laboratory, Hyderabad (NABL/ISO 17025 accredited) using AOAC/ ISO methods. Yields increased from 5.0 ± 0.1 L/800 nuts (infested) to 10.0 ± 0.2 L (treated) and 12.0 ± 0.3 L (recovered). Acid value declined from 2.42 ± 0.04 to 0.50 ± 0.01 mg KOH/g, peroxide value from 1.40 ± 0.02 to <1.0 meq O?/kg, and moisture from 0.235 ± 0.007% to 0.145 ± 0.007%. Saponification and iodine values shifted within Codex and FSSAI ranges, interpreted as quality indicators rather than direct evidence of fatty acid changes. Results were benchmarked against APCC (2015) and Codex (2024) standards and aligned with recent evaluations of VCO processing quality (Nivya et al., 2023; Prasanna, 2024) and regional IPM strategies for whitefly suppression in coconut (Kolanthasamy et al., 2023; TNAU, 2025).
H. Abdul Kaffoor1, R. Arunkumar1*, P. Ram Kumar1, P. Gowtham2 and C. Vidhya3
1PG and Research Department of Botany, Kongunadu Arts and Science College (Autonomous), Coimbatore - 641029, India. 2Department of Biochemistry, SSM College of Arts and Science, Dindigul - 624002, India. 3Tamil Nadu Forest Academy, Coimbatore - 641002, India. E-mail: arunkumarradha20@gmail.com
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2026.v28i02.56
Key words: Bio-stimulation; coriander; cowpea; magnetic field intensity; seed germination.
Abstract: Magnetic field treatment is gaining attention for enhancing seed performance and plant productivity in sustainable farming practices. The present study explored the influence of magnetic field exposure on the germination and early seedling growth of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata L. Walp.) and coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.). Seeds were subjected to four magnetic field intensities (M1-M4) generated by permanent round magnets for continuous conditions throughout the experimental period, while untreated seeds served as the control. After 15 days, the growth parameters, including root, shoot, and leaf lengths, were measured under controlled greenhouse conditions. The results demonstrated a significant increase in all measured parameters in magnetically exposed seeds compared with the control. In V unguiculata, M4 resulted in root (6.46 ± 0.7 cm), shoot (8.28 ± 0.5 cm), and leaf (7.56 ± 0.3 cm) lengths, while in C. sativum, seedlings reached root (8.35 ± 0.5 cm), shoot (11.28 ± 1.1 cm), and leaf (4.54 ± 1.8 cm) lengths. These results demonstrate that static magnetic field treatment can effectively enhance germination and early seedling growth, offering a practical approach to support crop production.
laboratory of insect ecology and pest management, Department of Zoology, Raiganj University, Raiganj, West Bengal - 733134, India. 2Department of Zoology, Vivekananda Mahavidyalaya, Burdwan, West Bengal - 713103, India. 3Department of Zoology, Murshidabad University, Berhampore, West Bengal - 742101, India. 4Siliguri, Darjeeling, West Bengal - 734013, India. Corresponding e-mail: partharayma99@gmail.com
Abstract: Oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Diptera), is a significant threat to the global horticulture industry due to its polyphagous nature and extensive economic damage directly or via trade restrictions. Traditional pest management strategies are valuable, but pose a significant threat to non-target organisms and contribute to pesticide resistance. Host plant resistance through transgenic expression of enzyme inhibitors has been successful in many instances. α-amylase is an enzyme that breaks down starch into simpler sugars and is essential for insect development. By genetically engineering a host plant to produce a protein that disrupts this enzyme, it is possible to reduce larval survival and, consequently, fruit damage. For such an application, it is essential to have a detailed knowledge of the biochemical properties of the target enzyme. Therefore, in this study, α-amylase from the Bactrocera dorsalis larvae was characterized to gain insight into its biochemical properties. The highest α-amylase activity was detected at pH 9 and 35 °C, with a specific activity of 0.86 ± 0.04 U/mg of protein. Kinetic analysis revealed a Km value of 1.12 mg/mL, indicating a high affinity for the substrate. While Ca was found to activate the enzyme, inhibitory effects were observed in the presence of Ca²+, Na+, K+, Fe²+/Fe³+, Mg²+, Cu²+, Zn, EDTA, SDS and Gallic acid. Electrophoretic mobility and zymogram analysis confirmed the presence of 3 enzyme isoforms with molecular weights of approximately 163 kDa, 81 kDa and 48 kDa. Additionally, molecular docking analysis using gallic acid as a ligand demonstrated favorable interactions with the α-amylase active site, supporting the experimental inhibition data. These insights could aid in the development of resistant mango cultivars, either through conventional breeding by utilizing naturally occurring α-amylase inhibitors or by incorporating α-amylase inhibitor genes to generate transgenic crops.
