Genetic parameters, correlation and path analysis for 12 yield and quality traits were studied during rabi, 2009-10 in 21 genotypes of rice. High estimates of GCV were recorded for plant height, number of filled grains/panicle and grain yield/plant. Heritability in broad sense was high for all the characters except spikelet fertility. High heritability coupled with high genetic advance as per cent mean were recorded for number of productive tillers/plant, panicle density, number of filled grains/panicle, 1000-grain weight, grain yield/plant and kernel length. Grain yield/plant exhibited highly significant and positive correlation with days to 50 % flowering, plant height, productive tillers/plant, panicle length, panicle density and filled grains/panicle. Path coefficient studies indicated maximum direct positive effect of plant height, productive tillers, filled grains/panicle and kernel length and kernel breadth on grain yield/plant.

A comparative study was designed to elucidate the effect of iron and mercury on the morphological and anatomical changes as well as bioaccumulation potential in Chromolaena odorata. Plants were grown in half-strength Hoagland nutrient medium artificially contaminated with known quantities of HgCl2 (15 μM) and FeCl3 (1000 μM). Bioaccumulation of Hg and Fe was maximum in the root, and comparatively reduced bioaccumulation was recorded in the stem and leaves. Microscopic studies on morphology and anatomy revealed development of trichomes and lenticels on the stem and modified trichomes on leaves. Localized deposits of stained masses in various internal parts of the root, stem and leaf also were observed. Differential adaptation/strategy of C. odorata to attain tolerance towards Hg and Fe and phytoremediation potential of the plant is discussed.

No abstract

No abstract

No abstract