Water stress, a severe abiotic stress, is currently posing a significant threat to wheat production globally. So, two experiments were conducted at the Experimental Farm of the College of Sciences and Humanities, Shaqra University, Al-Quwayiyah Governorate during the autumn seasons of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 to explore the synergistic effects of biochar and glutathione foliar application on wheat plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, grain yield, and its components under water deficit conditions. These trials were performed in both seasons in a randomized complete block design using a split-plot arrangement, with three replications for each water regime treatment. Biochar application rates were applied in the main plots, whereas sub-plots used glutathione foliar application. Significant adverse consequences on plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, grain yield, and its components were observed as a result of a water deficit in both seasons. The foliar application of biochar and glutathione significantly mitigated the adverse consequence of water stress on plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, grain yield, and its components. Plant growth, photosynthetic pigments, grain yield, and components traits were significantly impacted by combination of water regimes with biochar application and glutathione application, with the most favorable triple interaction observed via increasing biochar application to 20 tons per hectare and glutathione application was up to 300 mg/l under various watered regimes, particularly under well-watered conditions. Accordingly, the application of biochar at a rate of 20 tons per hectare and glutathione at a rate of 300 mg/l was found to be a sustainable method for enhancing wheat production under water stress conditions.

Abiotic stressors caused by climate change create severe problems for global agriculture, where drought, soil salinity, heavy metals (HMs) contamination, and flooding increasingly threaten productivity and food security. There are phytohormones within plants, including ABA (abscisic acid), jasmonates (JA), brassinosteroids (BR), salicylic acid (SA), cytokinins (CK), melatonin (MT) and gibberellins (GA) that play a fundamental role in improving the resistance of plants to adverse conditions by regulating the physiological and molecular mechanisms that modulate the retention and absorption of nutrients, antioxidant defense, stress tolerance, and cellular detoxification. Understanding and implementing phytohormone-based approaches is crucial as the frequency and severity of weather change's effects on agricultural output. These tactics offer a viable path toward resilient crop development. This review highlights the potential of phytohormones as sustainable tools to mitigate abiotic stress (drought and salt) providing a critical reference for future research to improve crop adaptation to abiotic stress conditions to ensure food security. Interestingly integrated computational approaches such as machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) have become crucial in forecasting and interpreting stress complex networks. Studies on an advanced level with computational models will be a promising approach to achieving sustainable development goals (SDG).

 

Tomato is an important vegetable crop all over the world due to its nutritional and medicinal value. Its demand is increasing while its production is adversely affected by the changing climate. There is a need to adopt such strategies to cope with the changing climate and improve fruit production under changing climatic conditions. This study was designed to evaluate the effect of salicylic acid on tomato plants and its production. During this study the salicylic acid’s effect was evaluated on tomato plants grown under the Chinese solar greenhouse during the two growing seasons 2021 and 2022. Different concentrations of salicylic acid (0 mM, 0.5 mM, 0.75 mM and 1 mM) were sprayed on tomato plants at an interval of 14 days from transplanting to the first harvest stage. Its effect was studied on both morphological and biochemical properties of tomato plants. The results revealed that the 0.75 mM concentration of SA has a positive effect on both the traits i.e., morphological such as plant height (154.33 cm and 141.33 cm) number of clusters (17 and 15.667) and biochemical characters such as total soluble solids (4.733 ºBrix and 4.8 ºBrix) titratable acidity (0.7827% and 0.8107%) of tomato. 0.75 mM concentration of SA has significant effect on the tomato plant and improved the morphological and biochemical characteristics of plants. Thus, the 0.75 mM concentration of SA is found optimal for improving the quality and quantity of tomato fruits

Recently, cerium oxide nanoparticles (CeO2-NPs) have attracted much attention for their ability to enhance the resistance of plants to withstand multiple abiotic stress such as high salinity and drought. However, few studies have shown whether CeO2-NPs can enhance plant resistance under UV-B radiation. In this study, mung bean (Vigna radiata) seedlings were selected as the research objects to investigate the effects of CeO2-NPs application on their growth and development, as well as physiological and biochemical indicators. Furthermore, the repair effects of CeO2-NPs against UV-B radiation damage of mung bean seedlings had been elaborated in terms of morphology, physiology, biochemistry, cell and molecule. The findings of the study indicated that CeO2-NPs could reduce membrane damage and oxidative damage of taproots under enhanced UV-B radiation, regulate auxin and cytokinin-associated genes, decrease amylase activity and increase starch content. Enhanced UV-B radiation-induced curvature of mung bean taproot was repaired to some extent and the response of taproot to gravity was restored. Thus, CeO2-NPs could enhance the stress resistance for taproots of mung bean seedlings. These results provide a new way to reduce UV-B stress.

 

Cadmium toxicity is a significant environmental issue affecting crop growth and productivity globally. Maize, a rich source of nutrition, is an excellent model plant to study physiological changes responsible for reduced productivity under stressful conditions. This study assessed the effect of Cd concentrations on maize seedlings before and after exogenous application of proline and trehalose in 25 mM, 50 mM, and 75 mM concentrations. Trehalose has emerged as an important reducing sugar that can reduce the adverse impacts of Cd. Exogenous proline increased proline content and alleviated Cd-induced seedling growth inhibition. It also increased antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation. Compared with other concentrations, 75 mM of exogenous proline and trehalose was the most effective at mitigating Cd toxicity in maize. The results depicted that proline showed the better plant growth in Cd stressed maize plants due to better yield and cob level, lesser degradation of chlorophylls, and accumulation of essential mineral contents. Hence, the research concluded that exogenous application of proline and trehalose could be beneficial in reducing Cd toxicity in maize crop

With the implementation of China’s zero-growth policy for chemical fertilizer application, increasing attention has been directed toward exploring organic fertilizers as partial substitutes for chemical fertilizers. This study investigated rice cultivation under four fertilization regimes: conventional chemical fertilization (CK) and organic fertilizer substitution at 10% (T1), 20% (T2), and 30% (T3) of total chemical fertilizer equivalents. Key findings include: (1) Comparised with CK, the T1, T2, and T3 treatments increased rice yields by 6.22%, 9.06%, and 4.68%, respectively. Organic fertilizer substitution significantly improved grain quality through reduced chalkiness (8.78%-19.49%), decreased amylose content  (9.56%-12.95%), and increased protein levels (10.06%-17.29%), collectively enhancing palatability. (2) Seasonal greenhouse gas (GHG) emission patterns showed treatment-independent consistency, but cumulative emissions varied with substitution ratios. Notably, T2 and T3 achieved 10.84% and 25.92% reductions in GHG intensity (GHGI) respectively compared to CK, indicating effective emission mitigation. (3) Organic amendments significantly altered soil microbial community structure. Dominant phyla across treatments included Proteobacteria  (8.85%-10.51%), Acidobacteria  (10.16%-33.82%), Bacteroidetes (10.82%-71.38%), Chloroflexi (17.05%-22.70%), and Patescibacteria (212.15%-308.41%), The precise mechanisms underlying these microbial-mediated emission processes require further investigation. These findings demonstrate that 20% organic substitution (T2) optimally balances yield enhancement (9.06%) with environmental sustainability (11.00%), providing an effective strategy for green agricultural development in rice production systems.

Drought is a major abiotic factor limiting agricultural ecosystem productivity in arid and semi-arid areas. This study aims to evaluate the role of biostimulants in mitigating the adverse effect of water stress (well-watered (WW): 75% field capacity (FC) and drought-stressed (DS): 25% FC) through the application of single or combined biostimulants based on two microbial consortia (P: Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus sp., M: native arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi) and organic amendment (C) to Zea mays L. The metabolism of exposed plants to DS was negatively modified, affecting growth, mycorrhizal symbiosis, biochemistry, physiology, and mineral nutrition of the maize plants and also generated changes in the soil properties. Furthermore, biostimulants, particularly CM, improved shoot and root dry biomass by 179 and 275%, respectively, compared with control plants under DS. However, under 25% FC, shoot height and root length were stimulated by PC (68%) and P (37%) compared with the controls. Root mycorrhization was more intense when soil contained P and inhibited when it was amended with C under DS. The single/combined application of biofertilizers enhanced stomatal conductance, osmolytes (proline and total soluble sugars), antioxidant system (Polyphenol oxidase), and leaf mineral composition (K, Fe, S, Ca, Mn, and Zn) compared with untreated plants. On the other hand, stress markers content (malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide) were reduced by CMP treatment (67% and 18%, respectively). Biostimulants (C and/or P and/or M) modified soil quality by improving total organic matter, available phosphorus, nitrogen, K, Si, Ca, Fe, S, Mn, and Zn. In conclusion, the strategy of combining biostimulants could be an ecological solution in degraded agricultural soils in arid and semi-arid regions to protect maize crops against drought

Mango is Pakistan's second most important fruit crop, facing escalating health issues, mainly from unhealthy nursery plants. To address challenges like poor seedling growth and high mortality rates, a study was conducted to investigate the effects of various media on the growth and performance of mango nursery plants, focusing on four soilless media: M1(Compost-15%+ Coir 30% + Bagasse 65%), M2 (Coir 5%+ Bagasse 30%+ Compost-2 65%), M3(Compost-25%+ Coir 30% + Bagasse 65%), and M4(Biochar-25% + Coir 30% + Bagasse 65%); a soil-based media recipe M0 (Coir 5% + Silt 30% + Bagasse 65%) as control and three sizes of black polythene pots: S1 (35.56 cm x 22.86 cm), S2 (40.64 cm x 22.86 cm), and S3 (45.72 cm x 22.86 cm). The findings exhibited that media M4 and pot size S3 significantly enhanced plant height (42.97%), No. of leaves (30.21), leaf area (1.51 folds), stem girth (1.59 times), volume of root (2.53 folds), volume of shoot (1.42 folds), seedlings fresh biomass (39.68%), seedlings dry biomass (50.77%), fresh root weight (2.16 times) and dry root weight (2.36 times) as compared to control. However, compared to the control, a significant reduction was observed in days to first flush (10.64 days) and plant mortality (77.42%) in media M4 and pot size S3. The study reveals that soilless media M4 with larger pots S3 significantly improves the growth and vigor of mango nursery plants and reduces mortality compared to soil-based pot media and smaller pots. The research underscores the innovative potential of biochar-based media as a sustainable option, which enhances nursery practices and fosters healthier seedling growth in mango production

Red sprangletop (Leptochloa chinensis L.) has become one of the most troublesome weeds for direct-seeded rice (DSR). The degree of cost-effectiveness of any weed control strategy against this weed needs accurate information about its critical timing of weed removal (CTWR) in DSR production system. A two-year field study was executed to estimate yield losses and critical period of competition of red sprangletop weed in the fine-grain DSR. Experimental treatments were crop-weed competition periods of 7, 8, 9, 10 weeks after emergence (WAE) of rice crop. A full season weed free and weed infested plots were also kept as controls for comparison purpose. Results exhibited that during both years, each successive prolongation in weed competition period significantly increased red sprangletop dry weight and its N, P and K uptake causing significant reduction in yield attributes and paddy yield. Consequently, during years 2018 and 2019, the highest values of weed dry weight (1168 and 1452 kg ha-1, respectively) and N, P and K uptakes (33.5 and 41.7, 7.67 and 9.62, 31.1 and 42.3 kg ha-1, respectively) were recorded with full season red sprangletop competition. In comparison to weed free control, this treatment resulted in the highest reduction in plant height (30-49%), panicle length (23-45%), tillers m-2 (66-78%), grains panicle-1 (42-61%), 1000-grain weight (31-24%), paddy yield (65-75%) and biological yield (67-70%). The logistic model estimated the CTWR of red sprangletop in DSR to be initial 33-49 DAE and 31-52 DAE in order to prevent 10% yield losses during years 2018 and 2019, respectively

This study was aimed to determine the proximate composition and antioxidant potentials of Quince genotypes. The proximate composition was estimated using the reported literature methods whereas the antioxidant potentials were determined using DPPH and ABTS assays. The possible phyto-constituents were identified using an HPLC Agilent 1260 system. The highest protein contents were present in genotype collected from Nalkot whereas lowest in Dardyal genotype. In leaves protein ranged from 0.41 to 0.6%. Crude fibers in fruit ranged from 13.89 % to 19.5 %, with highest contents in Malam Jaba genotype whereas, in leaves they were estimated from 14.83% to 19.69%. Ash content of the fruit ranged from 3.09% to 5.4% and in leaves from 3.91% to 7.3%. The highest carbohydrate value was recorded for Nalkot genotype. Fats (lipids) in fruit ranged from 0.38% to 0.93% whereas in leaves they ranged from 0.27% to 0.81% with highest contents in Charbagh and Tindodag genotypes. The estimated moisture contents in fruit were 55.69% to 68.73% whereas in leaves moisture contents ranged from 55.44% to 73.88%. The HPLC analysis revealed a numbered of compound peaks however only five of them were identified following spiking technique (Malic acid, Galic acid, Mandelic Acid, Phloroglucinol and Hydroxy Benzoic acid). The DPPH radical inhibitions of fruit extracts were; 79±0.1, 66±0.5, 64±1.2, 60±1.1, 62±1.5, 64±0.1, and 66±1.4 of the tested concentrations. The fruit sample collected from Tindodag genotype caused significant inhibition in comparison to standard ascorbic acid. The leaves samples inhibited the DPPH free radical by 62±1.2, 55±1.4, 60±1.5, 65±1.8, 62±1.4, 640±1.2, and 60±1.8. The extent of ABTS inhibition were; 76±0.1, 68±1.5, 66±1.2, 55±1.3, 60±.1.5, 66±0.5, and 63±0.5 for fruit samples whereas for leaves samples the recorded values were; 60± 0.5, 57±1.5, 63±.0.2, 63±.0.5, 60±1.2, 65± 0.5, and 55±0.2. Tindodag genotype fruit and leaves have caused significant inhibition as compared to the used standards. This study suggests that cultivation of Tindodag genotype in other areas might be encouraged to get highly nutritious fruit having health benefits as well.

Wild Pomegranates Punica granatum L., is a medicinal plant, native to Northern Pakistan and is known for its richer phytochemicals profile and bioactive properties. In this study, we used HPLC to analyze the phytochemical composition and assess the antioxidant and antibacterial activities of different parts of the plants. Interestingly, the seed extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity, with IC50 values of 795 µg/mL for DPPH and 975 µg/mL for ABTS. Among the tested parts, rind extract showed the highest bacterial growth inhibition against Xanthomonas oryzae and the effect may be attributed to its high phenolic contents. Similarly, HPLC characterization of methanolic extract of different parts of wild pomegranate identified various phytochemicals, including malic acid, vitamin C, chlorogenic acid, quercetin, ellagic acid, epigallocatechin gallate and pyrogallol. However, specifically, the rind contained five phytochemicals including, malic acid, vitamin C, quercetin, chlorogenic acid and pyrogallol. The root contained six phytochemicals: malic acid, vitamin C, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, chlorogenic acid, and ellagic acid. Similarly, the seed contained six phytochemicals: malic acid, vitamin C, epigallocatechin gallate, quercetin, chlorogenic acid and ellagic acid. It was concluded that wild pomegranate is a rich source of beneficial phytochemicals, with the seed extract displaying potent antioxidant properties and the rind extract showing strong antibacterial activity. Further In vivo and toxicological studies are necessary to validate these findings

Optimal nutrient balance is crucial for boosting crop yield and biomass. Unnecessary use of mineral nutrients can lead to soil mining, deteriorating productivity, and soil health. Replenishing indigenous soil nutrients by adding organic amendments and inorganic fertilizer application may enhance soil health and crop productivity. This study investigates the effects of long-term integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers on soil nutrient status and crop growth and development. Field trails were conducted for two consecutive years (2018 and 2019) at the research farm of the University of Agriculture Peshawar-Pakistan. The experiments were conducted using two factorials randomizing complete block design with three replications. Treatments were used, Half (H) NPK, Full NPK, Legume Residues (LR) @ 10 tons ha-1, Humic Acid (HA) @ 5 kg ha-1, Biochar (BC) @ 10 tons ha-1, LR + HNPK, HA + HNPK, BC + HNPK, HLR +HHA+ HNPK, HLR + HBC + HNPK, HBC + HHA + HNPK and one control for comparison to investigate its impact on maize growth and yield and its residual effect on soil health and subsequent wheat crop Experiential findings revealed that maximum soil micronutrients Zn (0.10 mg/kg), Mn (2.5 mg/kg), Fe (6.9 mg/kg) concentration in soil and Cu (0.009 %), Mn (0.023 %), Fe (0.041 %) concentration in plants were recorded in HBC + HHA + HNPK treatment. As compared to control, significant highest Zn (0.064 %) contents in grain were recorded in plots where only BC + HNPK was applied. The highest Cu (0.020 mg/kg) concentration in soil was recorded in BC, Ha, HA + HNPK, while high Cu (0.030 %), Mn (0.023 %), Fe (0.040 %) concentration in grain were recorded with HLR + HBC + HNPK, whereas Zn (0.030 %) concentration in plants were recorded with HLR + HBC + HNPK treatment. Overall, the soil fertility of micronutrients was better in the 2nd year as compared to the 1st year. Thus, the application of both inorganic and organic amendments together provides a sustainable and economical method of maintaining soil fertility. Conclusively the results of the study indicated that soil fertility and crop yield and biomass under Maize-wheat cropping system may be increased more effectively by applying organic amendments and inorganic fertilizers together than by applying either organic or inorganic fertilizers alone

Modern agricultural strategies are evolving worldwide as sustainable, organic, and chemical-free practices. Modern agriculture aims to increase the yield with less chemical input and maintain soil health. This is possible via bio-stimulants and biofertilizers. Microalgae and seaweed fertilizers are considered as potential candidates for achieving the aforementioned objectives. In the current study, the efficacy of commercially available seaweed fertilizer and Chlorella vulgaris powder was evaluated by growing wheat plants in greenhouses. The results were compared with control and commercially available inorganic fertilizer. Several growth parameters were recorded. We found C. vulgaris powder has prominent impacts on plant growth and soil health. In the current study MB2 treatment (10g C. vulgaris powder/kg of soil) shows the most promising results in growth and yield parameters. It has been found that all organic treatments we used in the current study have more yield compared to commercially available inorganic fertilizers

Soil fertility degradation is associated with continued cultivation of crop and without further addition of organic amendments. Improving the productivity of low fertile soils is a key to achieve the target of food production and tackling global food crises. A field study was conducted during 2022 to observe the effect of bone meal compost (BMC) on the growth and ion content of banana crop. The field study was organized at the experimental site of Sindh Agricultural University Tandojam in a three-replicated randomized complete block design. Each block was planted with 36 banana suckers of three months old. The treatments were designed as CK1: BMC=00 + recommended NPK (N=300, P=250 and K=500) kg ha-1, CK2: BMC = 7.0 t ha-1 and no chemical fertilizers were used, CK3: BMC = 7.0 t ha-1 with recommended NPK (N=300, P=250 and K=500) kg ha-1. Bone meal compost with inorganic fertilizer (BMC+IF) showed remarkable positive effects on banana growth and soil quality. However, the maximum increase in banana pseudo stem height 26.72%, number of leaves 15.74% leaf length 39.65%, leaf area index 36.37%, stem girth 38.47% were observed in CK3. Moreover, the root length was decreased by 8.77% in CK3. The maximum increase in leaf sap ions was observed with the application of bone meal compost with recommended inorganic fertilizer. The maximum increase in sap nitrogen was 38.29%, phosphorus 59.35%, potassium 22.51% and calcium were increased up to 44.92% where plants were treated with bone meal compost along with recommended inorganic fertilizer in compression to other treatments. The improvements in soil macronutrient were observed with the amendment of bone meal compost and inorganic fertilizer. The maximum soil nitrogen content was 23.84%, phosphorus 31.75% and potassium 15.46% at the depths of 0-20 cm with the application of (BMC+IF). The findings of experimental results demonstrate the effectiveness of bone meal compost and inorganic fertilizer for improving the growth and ion uptake in banana plants. Furthermore, amendment also improves the nutrient content in soil at both depths

The identification of bioactive metabolites in Tecoma stans reveals its biological benefits and traditional uses, particularly in the context of diabetes mellitus. To identify key compounds and assess toxicity risks, ADME-Tox and drug similarity tests were conducted. Ligands identified from the ADME assay were analyzed through In silico molecular docking studies against the GLP-1 receptor, which plays a crucial role in insulin sensitivity, blood sugar regulation, and energy metabolism control. Among the 26 secondary metabolites identified through ADME, the luteolin flavonoid emerged as the most active ligand with a docking score of -6 kcal/mol and a binding energy of -74.76 kcal/mol. Active compounds such as luteolin found in Tecoma stans have been shown to have the potential to treat hyperglycemia through the inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase. The results suggest that the progressive complications of diabetes can be effectively managed

Jatropha is an alternative source of fossil fuel grown in the tropics and subtropics. This research focuses on measuring of physical, chemical and (lubricating) characteristics of Jatropha seed oil extracted from 45 genotypes to explore its potential as biodiesel feedstock. Significant genetical variation was observed from the ANOVA for the genotypes. High coefficient of variation for genotype and phenotype were found for all seed oil properties with moderate differences. The traits reported the highest values of broad sense heritability and genetic advance were oil moisture content (85.77%), free fatty acids (52.99%) and peroxide value (148.84%). Significant correlation coefficient was found at 10 physiochemical characteristics Jatropha seed oil samples. The oil content of seed (%) revealed significant positive correlation coefficient with oil density (0.40**), oil moisture content (0.21*), saponification value (0.26**). Cluster analysis based on seed oil properties; 45 Jatropha genotypes were clustered in six groups. The maximum number of the genotypes (11) were grouped into cluster V. The cluster V integrated the highest number of genotypes while the second and third top-performing genotypes were found in cluster IV (9) and II (8), respectively

Poplars (Populus spp.) are one of the most widespread ligneous plants in the world, which have a variety of applications ranging from landscape, agriculture, and industry to research. Although Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene transformation method has been widely utilized for poplar genetic manipulation, many defective technique defects such as the time-consuming procedures, and the occurrence of chimeric transformant have emerged. To address these problems, a simple, fast, straightforward and effective gene transformation method by using Agrobacterium rhizogenes to induce hairy roots in poplars was developed, and regenerated-transgenic poplar plantlets were obtained within a period of two to three months. The optimal procedure comprised the usage of poplar apex buds as explants, infection of A. rhizogenes by directly pricking colonies with the cuttings on the agar plates, and improving hairy-root initiation by application of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) in combination with hairy-root morphological identification. Moreover, the GFP marker gene was applied to track record the expression level of the introduced genes using a portable fluorescence lamp. Further quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and the enzyme activity assay showed that in comparison with the non-transformed control, the transcript abundance and enzyme activity of our target gene (i.e., aspartate aminotransferase) were significantly elevated in the transformed plant lines regenerated from the hairy roots, confirming that the current A. rhizogenes-mediated poplar transformation method is effective and applicable for poplar genetic manipulation and functional genomic study

Germin-like proteins (GLPs) are members of the Cupin superfamily playing an important role in plant development and inducing stress resistance. Brachypodium distachyon’s genome contains 08 GLPs which are functionally unexplored. However, in silico analysis can provide better insights into their structural, functional, and phylogenetic properties. Presently, physicochemical properties, domain composition, phosphorylation & N-glycosylation sites, subcellular localization, 3D structures, phylogenetic relationships, and functional importance of the eight BdGLPs genes were studied using the latest computational tools. All the BdGLPs exhibited similar physicochemical properties, domain architecture, 3D structures, and subcellular localizations, except BdGLP2-1, and BdGLP3-7. The Molecular and Evolutionary Genetics Analysis (MEGA11) tool was used to assess their phylogenetic relationships while STRING (Ver. 10) was used for functional characterization. All the BdGLPs showed a close phylogenetic relationship due to their presence on the same chromosome (Chr 3) except BdGLP2-1, which was found on chromosome 2. Functionally, BdGLP2-1 exhibits NADH dehydrogenase activity, whereas other BdGLPs are associated with WPP domain-related functions. This analysis provides valuable insights into the potential utilization of BdGLPs in functional genomics to develop resistant cultivars against various stresses

Biogeographical barriers to gene flow are central to plant phylogeography. Tulipa iliensis are mainly distributed in Xinjiang in China. Field survey found that there were differences in plant phenotypes traits among different populations of Tulipa iliensis at different altitudes. However, few studies have investigated how altitude affects the genetic diversity of species that are distributed in this area. Due to slow evolution and conserved sequences, cpDNA is widely used in phylogenetic analysis, species identification, and species origin studies. Here we used chloroplast DNA fragments of rbcLaF-rbcL to examine genetic diversity and distribution patterns of 7 populations of Tulipa iliensis. The distribution pattern based on cpDNA data showed that the rbcLaF-rbcL fragment had 312 variable sites in sampling area, and a total of 6 haplotypes were obtained, among which haplotypes Hap-1 and Hap-2 were ancient haplotypes. The genetic diversity is rich and the variation mainly comes from within populations, but there is a certain gene flow between populations. There is no abvious phylogeographic structure and no recent expansion in the sampling area, and the population size remains stable. The analysis of suitable areas showed that Bio13 (Precipitation of Wettest Month) and Bio14 (Precipitation of Driest Month) were the key factors affecting the distribution of Tulipa iliensis in China. From the three paleoclimates, current, and future climate scenarios, Tulipa iliensis suitability the distribution range of suitable areas of Tulipa iliensis in China showed a shrinking trend and migrated to higher latitudes. This study lays a foundation for the subsequent research on the history of Tulipa iliensis pedigree, adaptive traits, and analysis of stress response mechanisms.

 

Sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is an emerging C4 crop species exploited for its grain, fodder and bio-ethanol purposes. It is recognized as an advanced biofuel feedstock, possessing climate smart attributes like abiotic stress tolerance, low input needs and reduced greenhouse gas emissions. To develop effective breeding program for sweet sorghum in Pakistan, the information on adaptation to local environments, genetic relationships and diversity of sweet sorghum accessions is vital for the identification of better breeding parents. The study used a panel of 200 sweet sorghum accessions obtained from the USDA’s worldwide collection for genetic diversity estimation. Eight quantitative traits were evaluated under field conditions for two years. Extensive phenotyping and morphological characterization indicated the presence of significant genetic diversity within the germplasm. High variability was reported in plant height (113.00–321.33 cm), fresh weight (570.67–1058.00 g), dry weight (235.0–450.33 g), and stem thickness (4.00–22.33 mm). A high broad-sense heritability was shown by all the observed quantitative traits. The major 5 principal components having Eigen value (>1) shared 80.09% variability of traits among the genotypes. The correlation analysis showed that plant height was positively correlated with the number of leaves and fresh weight. Days to flowering and days to maturity were also seen to be in strong positive correlation with each other. Cluster analysis classified the genotypes into two classes based on the homology. The explored genetic potential of sweet sorghum collection can be helpful in varietal development and improvement programs. Moreover, this diverse set of sweet sorghums can be evaluated through genome-wide association mapping by using molecular markers for molecular selection of promising genotypes with improved agronomic and quality traits

Type 2C protein phosphatases (PP2Cs) are the most abundant members of the plant phosphatase family and perform vital functions in response to various environmental stressors. To explore the role of Panax ginseng C.A. Meyer (P. ginseng) PgPP2C, a gene identified from a previously assembled transcriptome database, under adverse conditions, we created a clone of the gene and named it PgPP2C2. The length of its open reading frame was 1269 base pairs, and it coded for a 422-amino-acid protein that contained a 2C family serine/threonine phosphatase catalytic domain characteristic of the phosphatase 2C family proteins. Phylogenetic analysis of PgPP2C2 protein sequences from multiple species revealed that the P. ginseng sequence was similar to homologous sequences from Macleaya cordata, Malus domestica, Nicotiana tomentosiformis, Solanum lycopersicum, and Handroanthus impetiginosus. Transient expression analysis identified a PgPP2C2–GLosgfp fusion protein in the nucleus. The expression of PgPP2C2 was detected by transcriptional analysis in all investigated tissues, but at a higher level in the roots. Moreover, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deficiency treatments were observed to trigger PgPP2C2 expression. Specifically, the downregulation of PgPP2C2 and the accumulation of abscisic acid–glucose ester (ABA–GE) were induced under N deficiency. The synthetic strigolactone analog GR24 restored the expression of PgPP2C2 under N deficiency, but had no obvious effect on the ABA–GE content. The findings enhance our understanding of the genetic regulatory mechanism of P. ginseng in response to N and P deficiencies, as well as provide a potential strategy for improving the quality of cultivation of P. ginseng through hormone-mediated nutritional regulation

This study was aimed at assessing a detailed genetic analysis of five parental populations of Brassica napus L. along with its F2 population using Hayman’s approach. A significant contribution of F2 crosses was noted for important traits, including BKUC7 x BKUC8 for days to 50% flowering (67 days), BKUC3 x BKUC7 for maximum plant height (105.5 cm) and siliqua plant-1 (86), BKUC3xBKUC8 for highest oil content (42.6%) and BKUC4 x BKUC8 for high protein content (27.4%). The results showed that self-combination of BKUC4 and BKUC8 had the least glucosinolate concentration (52.2%) while the highest level was of oleic acid (55.0%). Likewise, the lowest erucic acid concentration (41.7%) was recorded for BKUC2xBKUC4. A negative inbreeding depression for days to 50% flowering initiation (-2.48%) and glucosinolate (-17.79%) and linoleic acid (-43.13%) concentrations was recorded for P4, while that of erucic acid (-27.31%) was noted for P1. BKUC2 x BKUC3 has shown a desired negative heterosis of -14.86% and -19.43% for days to 50% flowering and erucic acid concentration, respectively. Similarly, BKUC2 x BKUC8 has shown a positive heterosis for oil content (13.18%). Protein content (4.83%) and oleic acid concentration (3.15%) were evident for BKUC4 x BKUC8, while BKUC2 x BKUC7 displayed a desired negative heterosis up to -21.14% for GSL. Statistical analysis has shown a significant role of GCA and SCA for all traits except siliqua plant-1, which validates the active role of additive and non-additive genetics. Over-dominance and partial dominance gene action were mainly observed for all traits in this study. Overall, a high heritability and desirable positive and negative heterosis for most important traits, like oil content, erucic acid and glucosinolate concentrations, protein content, and days to 50% flowering were observed in our study. In conclusion, our findings provide new insights for future breeding studies on the F2 progenies of diallel crosses of B. napus L

Basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factors which constitute the second-largest transcription factor superfamily in plants, play an important complex regulatory role in the biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites. However, little information of bHLH family is available in the multi-prupose horticultural plant T. sinensis. Systematic research on the T. sinensis bHLH TF family will enable a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of this species. In this study, we identified 132 TsbHLH family members using phylogenetic analysis and categorized them into 21 subfamilies based on their structural characteristics. Then, the bHLH domain, gene structures, protein conserved motifs, cis-regulatory elements and Chromosomal distribution were probed. In addition, we performed a gene duplication analysis and found the TsbHLH TF family is composed of three gene tandems and 96 segmental duplications, which may be responsible for the prosperity of it. Furthermore, 20 differential expressed TsbHLH genes identified in a T. sinensis transcriptome database were selected to detect their expression across four distinct harvesting periods. Finally, we found that some TsbHLHs may participate in regulating terpene synthesis via the MEP pathway according to the correlation study between the expression of TsbHLHs genes and terpene synthase genes. Our findings provides basic information about TsbHLH TF family and lay a groundwork for further research on the function of bHLH genes in regulating the terpene synthesis

Allelopathic chemicals are different in coniferous and broadleaved plants, so the impacts on other plants are also different. In this paper, the effect of aqueous leaf extracts from Metasequoia glytostroboides Hu et Cheng, Cedrus deodara (Roxb.) G. Don 'Aurea', Liquidambar formosana Hance, Platanus acerifolia (Aiton) Willd. and a mixture of coniferous and broadleaf trees on seed germination and seedling growth of Pennisetum alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. At the same concentration (50 gDW/L) was investigated using an indoor filter paper culture dish method. The results were evaluated using the Response Index (RI) and the Synthesis Effect Index (SE). The results showed that: (1) The leaf extract of P. acerifolia (Aiton) Willd. promoted the germination of P. alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. seeds, and inhibited the growth of P. alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. seedlings. The metabolism of M. glytostroboides Hu et Cheng, C. deodara (Roxb.) G. Don 'Aurea' and L. formosana Hance leaf extracts inhibited the seed germination and seedling growth of P. alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. The allelopathic inhibitory effects were: M. glytostroboides Hu et Cheng > C. deodara (Roxb.) G. Don 'Aurea' > L. formosana Hance. (2) In this study, the single leaf extract of the coniferous trees (M. glytostroboides Hu et Cheng and C. deodara (Roxb.) G. Don 'Aurea') and the broadleaved trees (L. formosana Hance and P. acerifolia (Aiton) Willd.) did not show significant differences in the allelopathic effect on P. alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. Seeds. (3) Compared with their corresponding single leaf extracts, all of the coniferous-broadleaved mixed extract treatments showed neutralization effects on the allelopathic effects of P. alopecuroides (L.) Spreng. Namely, one single leaf extract > coniferous-broadleaved mixed extract > another single leaf extract. The results could provide a scientific basis for the management of urban forests and ecosystems

Brachychiton discolor F.Muell. (Malvaceae) is a deciduous ornamental tree native to Australia, which has gained ecological significance in urban ecosystems worldwide. This study evaluates the impact of leaf litter from B. discolor canopies on ground cover and plant diversity in urban environments. Areas under B. discolor canopies exhibited significant reductions in the cover of Cynodon dactylon (L.) Pers., Euphorbia hirta L., Malva parviflora L., Medicago polymorpha L., Melilotus indicus (L.) All., Poa annua L., and Sisymbrium irio L., along with Shannon-Wiener diversity (H') and evenness indices (E) declined. Moreover, leaf litter from B. discolor increased soil organic matter by 18.6% and enhanced the concentrations of certain nutrients, including potassium (16.24%) and copper (11.07%), in the affected urban soils. Greenhouse experiments demonstrated that leaf residues of B. discolor significantly inhibited C. dactylon germination (by 37.1%) and reduced the establishment of C. dactylon (by 54.6%) and M. parviflora (by 58.64%). This tree much reduced the light intensity under the tree canopy. High-performance liquid chromatography analysis identified key phenolic and flavonoid allelochemicals, including ellagic acid, pyrogallol, and benzoic acid among phenolics and kaempferol among flavonoids. These results suggested that reduced vegetation cover and diversity under B. discolor are primarily driven by its leaf litter and shading effects. The allelopathic impact of its chemical compounds appeared more pronounced than its mechanical effects. Consequently, B. discolor significantly alters urban vegetation cover and diversity, highlighting the need for conservation strategies to mitigate its impact and protect urban ecosystems.

 

Integrative taxonomy, which merges traditional morphological data using molecular techniques, is transforming plant taxonomy by creating a more accurate and comprehensive framework for species identification, classification and phylogenetic relationships. While morphology-based taxonomy offers accessible, field-applicable insights, it is limited by phenotypic plasticity, convergent evolution, and cryptic species. Molecular tools, such as DNA barcoding and next-generation sequencing, address these challenges by unravelling genetic relationships and hidden diversity. By combining both approaches, taxonomists can achieve higher taxonomic resolution, enabling more precise species delineation and enhanced understanding of evolutionary relationships and biodiversity. This method supports conservation efforts by facilitating biodiversity assessments, conservation prioritization, and effective invasive species management. Integrative taxonomy also promotes phylogenetic diversity, fostering resilience, and ensuring functional diversity in restored habitats. As emerging technologies, collaborative databases, and interdisciplinary research further advance, integrative taxonomy will be essential for tackling biodiversity loss and supporting sustainable ecological practices

Morus L. is a small genus including a number of different significant varieties and species. This genus attracts scientists to study its important medicinal properties like antimicrobial, antibacterial and even anti-viral. It also contributes economically to raise good quality of food for silkworms. In Pakistan, four species of Morus have been reported so far on the basis of morphology since 1985 in Flora of Pakistan. During this research work, we have reported one new species Morus pakistanica Amna & Niazi and one new variety Morus alba var. macroura Amna and Niazi on the basis of morphological and phylogenetic analyses. This study will provide a valuable addition in the flora of Pakistan. It is notable that we are going to submit molecular data of Morus spp. for the first time from Pakistan

 

Granite outcrops occurring as low mountains or oulder-strewn hills are found on the crystalline plates of all continents across a wide range of biomes and climates. The study area was divided into three different habitats: rocky slopes, shallow soil, and surrounding habitats that were surveyed for five consecutive years and related the surveys to the total rain. A total of 81 plant species belonging to 64 genera and 27 families were identified. The Fabaceae, Poaceae, and Amaranthaceae plant families made up 35.8% of the total number of species recorded in the study area. The dendrogram obtained through Ward classification of the recorded fifteen floristic assemblages confirms the high impact of slight precipitation on the floristic composition. Fourteen species of plants were restricted to the granite outcrop, most of which have medicinal importance and are not found in other habitats, which shows that granite outcrops offer comparable kinds of microenvironments. Sudano-Zambesian elements by 31.5% dominate the recorded chorological elements. Due to the existence of numerous microhabitats, the study has shown that Mount Jamadan contains a wide variety of plant species that are distinct from the surrounding habitats. In addition, the study proved that small amounts of rainfall have a strong impact on floristic composition, life forms, and chorotype in the granite outcrops in arid land

Medicinal plants are important in provisioning ecosystem service, and they are utilized as a whole or as components to cure illness as they contain useful chemical substances. The current study was conducted to find spatial distribution and ethnoecological knowledge of medicinal plants in Lilowani Valley, Shangla, Pakistan. Spatial distribution of medicinal plants was mapped through the MaxEnt model. During the study, 28 medicinal plants belonging to 23 different families were identified and collected. Results showed that the highest value of relative frequency citation (RFC) was found as 0.92 for Berberis lycium and Dryopteris odontoloma while the lowest recorded RFC is for Verbascum thapsus which is 0.05. Use Value recorded varied from 0.96-0.08. Important Value Index (IVI) was high for Dryopteris odontoloma i.e. 26.6 while the lowest was Asparagus racemosus i.e., 1.39. The linear regression model showed that R2 values range from 0.1 to 0.97 for different medicinal plants. The highest correlation (R2=0.97) was observed between the density of Valeriana jatamansi and environmental variables, followed by Skimmia laurel, Gentiana moorcroftiana and Micromera biflora with R2 of 0.96, 0.95, and 0.86 respectively. Most of the medicinal plants showed a high correlation between 0.97 and 0.62. The most prominent climatic factor was BIO9 (Mean temperature of driest quarter/◦C) which contributed towards spatial distribution of 06 out of 10 species, followed by BIO19 (Precipitation of coldest quarter/mm) and BIO11 (Mean temperature of coldest quarter/◦C) with the highest values of 0.95 and 0.92 for Trillium govanianum and Aconitum ferox respectively

Growing season is a critical factor for both short and long-aged traditional rice cultivation in Sri Lanka, where natural photoperiod fluctuates in a range of less than one hour within a season. However, the effect of planting time during two main seasons on agronomic characters and the yield of traditional rice remains unknown. To address this, ten accessions were selected to represent the seasonal variation in days to flowering (DF) among traditional rice accessions of Sri Lanka. These accessions were grown in the field at a single location, with twelve planting dates spaced at one-month intervals from November 2018 to October 2019, to study the effect of the growing period on agronomic traits and yield. DF variations of accessions across 12 months of the year suggested three patterns. Both, the accession and the planting date affected the DF, plant height at flowering (PH) and number of spikelets per first panicle (SPP) significantly (p

Gladiolus and Amaryllis are prominent flowering plants in Pakistan, grown primarily for their aesthetic appeal. However, due to the lack of proper postharvest management techniques, farmers and traders face significant losses. The study examined the influence of 2.5 & 5% of foliar application of ginger and citrus extracts on vase life and postharvest performance of Gladiolus and Amaryllis flowers. Different concentrations of the extracts were applied, and the effects on vase life, water uptake, floral head diameter and protein content etc., were measured. GE 5% (50ml/L) was found to increase the performance of cut flowers, which further increased the longevity of all Gladiolus and Amaryllis cultivars tested up to eight days and the longest vase life by 20.98 and 17.97 days, respectively. The maximum change in fresh weight (91.7 g), the increase in water uptake (27.33 and 25.97ml), flower head diameter (124.27 and 136.32 mm), dry weight of petal (1.13 and 1.29 g), total soluble solids (5.88 & 6.97 °Bx), highest protein content (66.33 and 65.02 mg g−1). The activities of total phenolic compound (TPC) 2.39 and 2.52 mg 100g-1), superoxide dismutase (SOD) (3.54 and 3.38 U g−1), catalase (CAT) (2.18 and 2.03 μ mol H2O2), and peroxidase (POD) (1.71 and 1.67 μ mol H2O2), also showed an increase. These results suggest that the use of 5%, ginger extract can significantly improve the postharvest management of gladiolus and amaryllis in Pakistan, providing growers and retailers with a viable solution to their current challenges

Algae play an important role in marine and fresh water environment. They are used in a variety of ways, including as therapeutic agents and constitute one of the important natural resource. Many environmental factors such as pollution are disrupting their richness, composition and abundance of coast seaweeds. This investigation focuses on the quantitative community description of composition and structure of seaweed assemblages using multivariate approaches for the Sindh cost, Pakistan, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Ward’s agglomerative clustering techniques were employed to analyze the data structure. A total of 77 seaweed species were recorded of which 20% belonged to Chlorophyta, 45% to Phaeophyta and 34% were from the phylum Rhodophyta. Jania capillacea, Codium reductum, Udotea indica,Caulerpa scalpelliformis, Melanothamnus somaliensis, Chaetomorpha antennia, Codium iyengarii, Caulerpa racemosa, Caulerpa veravalensis and Ulva rigida are usually abundant species in summer, while in winter season Colpomenia sinuosa, Iyengaria nizamudinii, Iyengaria stellata, Lobophora variegate, Cystoseira indica, Dictyota dichotoma, Padina gymnospora, Padina pavonica ,Sargassum filifolium, Sargassum crassifolium, Dictyota divaricate, Dictyota indica, Codium iyengarii, Coelarthrum muelleri, Champia globulifera and Gelidium folifera attain greater abundance. A group of species are usually associated with particular habitats forming assemblages (communities). The assemblages characteristic of rocky / /sandy pools. Comprise of Caulerpa spp., Codium spp., Iyengaria spp., Cystoseira spp. and Dictyota spp., the species with sandy/rocky beaches include Sargassum spp., Padina spp., Colpomenia sinuosa, Laurencia pinnatifida and Melanothamnus somaliensis. Muddy habitats are commonly occupied by communities having Entomorpha flexsousa, Chaetomorpha antennia and Polysiphonia adriatica .as the dominant species. Algal biomass was highest in February and lowest in July. Principal component analysis (PCA) ordination configuration and the bi-plot disclosed the distribution pattern of species and their assemblages (associations) and the relationships with habitats types. Cluster analysis effectively exposed the underlying group structure (i.e., communities or assemblages) and complemented the results of PCA

The genus Abutilon belongs to the family Malvaceae. It is a taxonomically complex genus due to the high degree of morphological variations observed among its members, both within and between species. Describing Abutilon species is particularly challenging because of these extensive morphological variations. Consiquently, the interspecific relationships within the genus remain unclear. In the current study, phylogenetic relationships within the genus Abutilon, was studied using sequence data from the noncoding (psbA-trnH) region of the chloroplast genome. Fifteen Abutilon species that are found in Pakistan were used to reconstruct the phylogenetic tree. Bayesian Inference analysis was applied to generate the phylogenetic tree, resulting in a well resolved phylogenetic tree with strong statistical support. Phylogenetic relationships were further discussed by comparing the morphological characteristics. Based on the psbA-trnH sequence data, two major groups with further clades were identified which generally confirmed the traditional grouping with some exceptions. The genetic profile of A. alii was found to be similar to A. muticum and A. pannasum, suggesting that these species are closely related and should be placed in the same group. Similarly, the study inferred the close association of A. pakistanicum to A. grandifolium; A. fruticosum to A. ramosum; A. karachianum to A. hirtum and A. sepalum; A. bidentatum to A. indicum, A. figarianum and A. gafoorianum. One of the most significant findings of this analysis was the identification of A. theophrasti as a basal species, with unique sequence characteristics suggesting that it should be considered both basal and primitive. In this study, the associations among Abutilon species were explored using DNA sequence data from noncoding region of the chloroplast genome and the inferred relationships were compared with previous morphology-based classification of Abutilon. Prior to this study, the discrimination of Abutilon species and their associations had not been explored using molecular data. The findings provide molecular evidence that largely supports the previously established morphological based classification with some exceptions. The study also suggests that psbA-trnH could serve as a reliable marker for Abutilon species delimitation. In the future, with an increased sample size, this molecular marker (psbA-trnH) could be utilized to discriminate Abutilon species and explore interspecific and infrageneric association among them. The species delimitation and inferred association presented in this study will contribute to updating the classification of Abutilon at molecular level.

A powdery mildew belonging to the genus Erysiphe was collected on the leaves of Lagerstroemia indica at the two sites in Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakis on the leaves of Lagerstroemia indica tan. Molecular phylogenetic analyses were carried out based on sequence data of rDNA ITS. After morphological and molecular examinations, the causal agent of this powdery mildew was identified as Erysiphe australiana, which is a new record for Pakistan. This contribution to the taxonomic knowledge of powdery mildews may serve as a help to create awareness amongst the growers of ornamentals to adopt control measures

Extracellular lytic enzymes are essential for combating phytopathogens as biological control agents. Consequently, an assessment was conducted to examine the lytic enzyme-producing capabilities of epiphytic yeast isolates. This assessment also included studying the In vitro antifungal activity and the biocontrol efficacies of yeast on the compositional attributes of stored tomato fruit. Out of the 25 yeast isolates evaluated for their potential to produce lytic enzymes, all exhibited positive β-1,3-glucanase activity. Additionally, isolates 2, 5, 15, 18, 21, and 25 showed positive chitinase activities. The yeast isolates successfully inhibited the In vitro growth of Fusarium solani and Alternaria alternata. Epiphytic yeast isolates (1, 5, 14, 15, 17, 18, 21, and 23) displayed strong In-vitro antifungal activities were further cultured in broths (107 CFU/mL) were applied to partially ripened tomato fruits and were stored at 21±2℃ with 20-75% relative humidity. Fruits treated with potassium sorbate (1% K-sorbate) served as the positive control set. The epiphytic yeast-treated fruits showed the least percent loss of weight (PLW), Total Soluble Solids (TSS), and decay percentage. The firmness of yeast-treated tomato fruit was higher compared to the control set. Although the lycopene content was higher in the control, a gradual upsurge in the amount of lycopene was noted in fruit treated with isolate 1, followed by isolate 21 on day 15. Maximum decay of the tomato fruit was observed in the control and positive control sets as compared to the yeast-treated fruit. This study suggests that the postharvest storage life and quality of tomato fruit can be maintained by utilizing epiphytic yeast, which is also known as the most suitable and potent biocontrol agent for controlling postharvest losses.

 

Liver cancer is a prevalent and serious global malignancy due to its rapid growth and poor prognosis, often stemming from liver damage progressing to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and ultimately cancer. In this context, a hepatoprotective study was conducted on crude methanol extracts of root, stem, leaves, flowers and seeds of Ricinus communis. This treatment regimen was consistently implemented over 64 consecutive days at various doses. Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was used as the inducing agent while silymarin was the standard control. This study investigated the hepatoprotective effects of various fractions of R. communis using biochemical, histopathological, and In silico molecular docking analysis. Hepatic injury was induced in rats via CCl4 administration, followed by treatment with different fractions. Biochemical analysis revealed significant changes in liver function markers upon CCl4 exposure, including elevated levels of serum ALT, AST, and ALP, distinctly attenuated by treatment with Ricinus communis fractions. Notably, leaf fractions demonstrated superior hepatoprotective effects than root and flower fractions. The histopathological examination further supported these findings, showing remarkable recovery in liver structure with minimal inflammation and fatty changes/lipid alterations, particularly with leaf fractions. Additionally, in silico molecular docking analysis elucidated potential interactions between R. communis fractions and specific enzymes implicated in liver injury, further supporting the observed hepatoprotective effects. Ligands L1, L2, and L7 showed the strongest potential for enzyme inhibition. Overall, this study underscores the promising hepatoprotective properties of R. communis fractions, especially those derived from the leaves. These findings suggest the potential therapeutic utility of R. communis in the management of hepatic disorders

The importance of mangrove litter for food of a variety of organisms is well established. Litter production and decomposition has been studied previously from two locations in Pakistan. This communication presents release of dissolved nutrients in mangrove channel water at Sandspit. Overall concentration of nutrient ions was high during post-monsoon season.  Highest values of all nutrients (NH4 15.41µg. l-1, NO3 8.26 µg. l-1 and NO2 6.58 µg. l-1), except for phosphates, were recorded in November. Phosphate had highest value (14.78 µg. l-1) in December. The levels of all nutrients showed sharp decreases and attained lowest values in summer. The in situ seasonal values of nutrient ions had significant correlation with the litter production in the area. The litter trap data reveals high production of litter during dry post-monsoon season (1.93±1.15 g.m-2.d-1) which is largely constituted of leaf litter (52%). Similarly, the in vitro leaf decomposition experiment clearly demonstrate release of particulate and dissolved matter during decomposition and 50% weight loss was noted in 48 and 50 days under aerobic and micro-aerobic conditions, respectively. Rate of release of all nutrient ions was slightly slower under micro-aerobic condition. Seasonal variability observed in water parameters and dissolved nutrients showed significant correlation with the litter production and decomposition. It is evident from the data that nutrient concentration in mangrove ecosystem (Manora Channel) is regulated through mangrove detrital system, though some influence of Layari River may exist. The organic detritus and nutrients could potentially enrich the coastal waters and ultimately support primary and secondary productivity

Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa) cultivation is increasing among Pakistani farmers because of extra profit and demand in local market. This crop is attacked by multiple pathogens responsible for low yield. The current study’s objective was to identify a sustainable and a better approach to managing Fusarium wilt caused by Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. fragariae (Schlecht) in the field. Firstly effectiveness of eight commercial fungicides was evaluated by the poisoned agar technique against colony growth of F. oxysporum f.sp fragariae In vitro. Among all tested chemicals, four (Score, Avito, Carbendazim and Topsin-M) were found to suppress and inhibit pathogen growth significantly with reference to control. Later, the efficacy of four strains/isolates of Trichoderma harzianum was also evaluated through dual culture technique against F. oxysporum f.sp fragariae. However, only one strain of T. harzianum was found to suppress colony diameter of pathogen. Afterwards, four fungicides and one isolate of T. harzianum were assessed in the greenhouse. Finally, three chemicals (Score, Carbendazim and Topsin-M) and a biocontrol isolate were applied in the field after artificial inoculation of pathogen in a randomized complete block design (RCBD). All three chemicals reduced disease severity of Fusarium wilt with varying degrees of success. The mean results of field trials indicated that Carbendazim and Score gave 72.0%, T. harzianum 80.0%, while Topsin-M showed 88.0% protection value against Fusarium wilt disease in the filed after 42 days. Topsin-M was most effective, followed by T. harzianum and can be applied to manage Fusarium wilt of strawberry confidently

Present study aimed to assess the potential of co-culturing of two locally isolated fungal strains, Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus oryzae, for enhanced production of laccase enzyme for possible use in industrial applications. After identification and confirmation, both strains were investigated individually and together for laccase enzyme production under optimal conditions. Maximum production of laccase enzyme (35.5±0.025 U/mL) was observed when both strains were co-cultured at 28°C using 10% wheat bran as substrate having pH 6 after 72 hours. The enzyme was purified to homogeneity through ammonium sulfate precipitation and gel filtration chromatography. The molecular mass of purified laccase enzyme from both fungal strains was observed as almost 65 kDa using SDS-PAGE. Purified laccase enzyme showed great stability (60%) upto 70°C for 4 hours and pH 9.0 for 3 hours. The enzyme exhibited stability even in the presence of highest concentrations of solvents (30%) and diverse inhibitors (3%). The presence of divalent ions also seemed to enhance the enzymatic activity whereas EDTA showed a negative impact on it. All the characteristics recorded in this research proved laccase enzyme a capable nominee for industrial utilization

Climate change is a major environmental issue that humanity is currently confronting, influenced by both natural and human actions. As a result of substantial changes to the atmosphere's composition brought about by industrialization, overuse of land, deforestation, and the heavy reliance on fossil fuels, greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions have increased. Changes in weather patterns, an increase in temperature, and an intensification of extreme weather events including storms, floods, and droughts have all been brought about by this phenomenon. An industry that depends heavily on climate stability, agriculture, is especially susceptible to these shifts. Crop growth, productivity, and food security are already being impacted by changes in temperature, rainfall, and water availability. These issues will only get worse as global temperatures rise, having serious consequences for both poor and developed countries. There is still a lack of thorough, integrative methods that integrate physiological, genetic, and agronomic viewpoints to create holistic adaptation strategies, despite the increasing amount of research on the effects of climate change and crop adaptation techniques. This review aims to present a thorough analysis of the effects of climate change on crop adaptations, pinpoint knowledge gaps that currently exist, and to highlight the use of novel breeding and biotechnology techniques to mitigate the current climate change. The goal is to investigate technical developments, creative farming techniques, and physiological adaptations in crops that can support agricultural output and guarantee food security in a changing environment. This review aspires to fill in the gaps by providing practical advice that farmers, researchers, and policymakers may use to implement efficient mitigation solutions locally and globally.