Editorial
Animal Migration: Fingerprint of Climate Change in Eastern Himalaya
Hirendra Nath Sarma
Editor-in-Chief
Email: hirendra.sarma@rgu.ac.in
PDF
Review
Biotechnology Intervention in Medicinal Plants of North East India-A Review
Pratap Jyoti Handique
Department of Biotechnology, Gauhati University, Guwahati-781014, Assam, India
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 1-11(2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: pjhandique@rediffmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: North East India is a rich phyto-diversity area positioned in the Indo-Burma and Himalayan Biodiversity hotspot.
Around 1800 species of plants including several rare, endangered and endemic species have been recorded from this region
with ethno-medico-botanical information. The use of plants for medicinal purposes with traditional know-how is a much
prevalent practices throughout NE India. At this time, concern on various aspects of medicinal plants is gaining importance
throughout the globe. Research focus is escalating on a wide spectrum of activities starting from in vitro propagation to
metabolomics. Biotechnology tools and techniques are being used to select, multiply, evaluate and improve medicinal plants
throughout the globe. Various techniques like micropropagation, cell suspension culture for secondary metabolite production,
combinatorial biosynthesis, genetic transformation with desired gene, engineering of agronomic traits, metabolomics, profiling
of germplasm using molecular markers are being used to achieve characterization and improvement of medicinal plants.
During last two decades or so, biotechnology based R&D programmes are getting a momentum on utilization and development
of medicinal plants in NE India. This paper attempted to highlight the success and lead in identification of diverse plant genetic
resources of NE India using biochemical and molecular markers; high frequency in vitro regeneration of plants and plant parts
for micropropagation and production of secondary metabolites; bioprospecting for novel phyto-chemicals, screening of high
yielding elite clones and assessment and bioassay of medicinal properties.
Key words: Bioprospecting, Biotechnology, Endemic, Ethno-medicinal, Indigenous, North east India, Traditional.
Review
Dipteran Flies as Pollinator and Their Prospective Role in Orchid Pollination
of Eastern Himalaya: An Appraisal
N. Paul, S. M. Mazumdar and A. Mazumdar
Entomology Research Unit, Department of Zoology, Golapbag Academic complex, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan
713104, West Bengal, India.
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 12-18(2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email:abhijitbu02@gmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: In Eastern Himalaya, at least 50 species of soft bodied Dipterans are well known pollinators. Unfortunately flies as
pollinators has received less attention but members belonging to the families viz., Ceratopogonidae, Chironomidae, Culicidae,
Mycetophilidae, Pyralidae and Tipulidae has been implicated as potent pollinators. These pollinating flies facilitate seed and
fruit production of several important plants including Orchids which possess significant commercial and ornamental attributes.
Pollination is an intrinsic natural incident for propagating germ line and has a great evolutionary significance as it also leads to
overall gain of heterozygosity of the floral community. The biology of orchid is most pragmatic in evolutionary history and
complex floral structure always being an attraction to pollinators. Nearly half of the 1500 orchids found in Himalayan region
are pollinated by insects viz. Acampe praemorsa, Aerides sp. , Bulbophyllum neilgherrense, Cymbidium aloifolium, Dendrobium
barbatulum, D. crepidatum, Habenaria grandifloriformis, Oberonia brunoniana, Platanthera obtusata and Rhynchostylis retusa.
There are significant gaps in our knowledge in relation to the specific roles of Diptera in pollination network, which needs to
be addressed in order to sustain agricultural practices and to decipher the intricacies of Orchid pollination. This review
provides an overview of Dipteran pollinators with special emphasis on orchid pollination. This write up also provides a positive
notion on plant-pollinator interaction, understanding the biology of this plant. In the light of orchid farming, conservation and
propagation in North eastern region of India, the knowledge of this review can be utilized to ensure protection and propagation
of this unique biodiversity group.
Key words: Diptera, Orchids, Pollination, Eastern Himalaya, India, Ornamental plants
Short Communication
SEM Analysis of Surface Fine Topography of Diplozoon paradoxum (Monogenea, Polyopisthocotylea) from the Snow Trout, Schizothorax richardsonii (Cyprinadae, Osteoichthyes) in Arunachal Pradesh, India with Comments on Host Fish
Stelin M. Singh
Department of Zoology (Center with Potential for Excellence in Biodiversity), Rajiv Gandhi University, Doimukh, Rono Hills, Arunachal Pradesh-791112, India
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 19-22(2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: mairembam@gmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: The edible freshwater fish Schizothorax richardsonii in Arunachal Pradesh, India was examined for its helminth
parasite spectrum. One monogenean fluke representing the genus Diplozoon sp. was recovered from the gills of host fish. The
information on its surface fine topography was studied using SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy). The X shaped, fused
individuals were well displayed with the prominent prohaptor and opisthohaptor both containing host attachment structures.
The paired prohaptor is divided by a partition which separates the muscular oral sucker. There are numerous muscular
convolutions within the sucker. The body is covered with spines and convolutions. The opisthohaptor contains four pair of
laterally positioned corrugated clamps and a rectangular shaped concave terminal end.
Key words: Diplozoon sp.; Freshwater fish; Monogenea; Schizothorax richardsonii; SEM
Original Research Arcticle
Threats to Western Hoolock Gibbon (Hoolock hoolock) in the Inner-line Reserve Forest of Cachar District, Barak Valley, Southern Assam
Mofidul Islam1 and Parthankar Choudhury*2
1,2Department of Ecology and Environmental Sciences, 1Wildlife conservation laboratory, Assam University, Silchar, India.
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 23-34(2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: parthankar@rediffmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Inner-line reserve forest and its adjoining areas of Barak Valley, Southern Assam is one of the prime habitat in
north-east India of the Western hoolock gibbon (Hoolock hoolock ). Substantial number of gibbon groups are fighting for
their survival in the fragmented patches in the reserve forest. The present study was conducted to assess the threats/ survival
stress to the population of H. hoolock in the forest fragments of the Barak Valley district, Assam. Besides field observations,
we employed a structured questionnaire survey method to interview villagers, including the Gaon Burha (village head) and
local hunters. Based on our observations and the interviewees’ responses, we recorded that gibbons were occasionally hunted
for bush meat and were evidently predators of particularly young gibbons in the fragmented forest patches. Indirect threats
included habitat destruction and fragmentation, deforestation, extraction of non-timber forest products, livestock grazing,
road construction, selective (illegal) logging, shifting cultivation, commercial cash-crops, and permanent human settlement. A
conservation action plan is urgently needed to protect and conserve the Holock gibbon from extinction in the region.
Key words: Barak Valley, Deforestation, Hoolock hoolock, Inner-line reserve forest, Shifting cultivation, Threats
Original Research Article
A Microscopic Study of Two Dominant Bladderworts of Northeast India
Kshetrimayum Raseshowri Devi1* and Nagulan Venugopal2
1 Department of Forestry, North Eastern Regional Institute of Science & Technology, (Deemed University), Nirjuli - 791 109, Arunachal Pradesh, India
2 Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, North-Eastern Hill University, Umshing, Shillong - 793 022, Meghalaya, India
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 35-40 (2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: raseshowridevi@yahoo.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Bladderworts are annual or perennial herbs, which belong to the family Lentibulariaceae. Utricularia bifida Sm. and
Utricularia pubescens Sm. are the most dominant and widely distributed bladderworts of Northeast India. The capability of
trapping insects by the active bladders developed on the lower portion of the plants make them more interesting. This study
was carried out to understand the morphology and ultrastructure of bladders of the two dominant Utricularia species. Plant
samples were collected from the East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya and were processed as per the standard methodologies
for detail microscopic studies. The bladders of both species show double-layered walls. The antennae in U. bifida were
unicellular and uniseriate, whereas, the antennae of U. pubescens were numerous, long and multicellular forming a fringe. The
digestive glands were either bifid with two arms in U. bifida or quadrifid with four arms in the case of U. pubescens which bear
short single-celled stalk. The stalk cells represent the basal portion of the arms or the terminal cells abutted from their
respective sub-conical shaped pedestal cells. The wall partition between the pedestal and the basal portion of the stalk bear
several finger-like projections of transfer cell type. The walls of pedestal, stalk and terminal arm cells were clearly differentiated
into three layers. The outermost cuticle layer of pedestal cell was thick, which extended till the base of the terminal or arm cell.
The innermost layer was not impregnated with variously shaped electron translucent numerous vacuoles filled with granules.
Key words: Digestive gland, Pedestal cell, Utricularia, Ultrastructure, Vacuole
Original Research Article
Insect Pests and Associated Natural Enemies in Farming Ecosystems of Arunachal Pradesh
* Hiren Gogoi, Weney Wangno, Chuni Khimhun, Mala Rabha and Minam Tayeng
Department of Zoology, Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono-Hills, Doimukh-791112, Arunachal Pradesh
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 41-48 (2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: hirengogoi2007@yahoo.co.in
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Increase in human population necessitates an immediate priority for achievement of maximum production of
crops, vegetables and fruits. However, a major constraint in production is infestation by insect pests. Therefore, present study
aims to document the insect pests of crops, vegetables and fruits and their natural enemies in 4 districts of Arunachal Pradesh
as a step to increase yield quantity and quality in conventional pesticide free environment. During the study a total of 49
species of insect pests were recorded from 12 vegetable species viz. Brassica juncea (L.), B. oleracea L. var. italica, B. oleracea
L. var. capitata, B. oleracea L. var. gongylodes, Raphanus sativus L., Phaseolus vulgaris L., Cucurbita pepo L., Momordica
carantia L., Lageneria siceraria (Molina) Standl., Solanum lycopersicum L., S. melongena L., S. tuberosum L.; two cereal crop
species viz. Oryza sativa L., Triticum aestivum L.; six fruit species viz. Citrus reticulata Blanco, C. limon (L.), C. aurantifolia
(Christm.) Swingle, C. maxima Merr., Litchi chinensis Sonn., Mangifera indica L. and one spice plant species Zanthoxylum
armatum DC. The recorded pests include 28 Hemipteran, 11 Coleopteran, 9 Lepidopteran and 1 Dipteran species. Out of the
recoded species, Mamestra brassicae (L.) of cabbage, Agrotis ipsilon (Hufnagel) of wheat, Phyllophaga sp. of potato, Sogatella
furcifera Horvath of rice, Anoplophora versteegi Rits. of mandarin orange and Dectes sp. of Timur seem to cause major
economic loss to farmers in the region. Likewise, 7 species of predatory insects and 1 species of parasitoid belong to order
Coleoptera, Diptera and Hymenoptera were recorded which have the potential to be incorporated in pest management
progams.
Key words: Aphid, Borer, Cutworm, Hopper, Parasitoid, Predator
Original Research Article
A New Look on Basic Histological Structures of Gastrointestinal Tract of Albino Rat (Rattus norvegicus)
* Indira Sarma, Hibu Yakang, Kanmuna R Talukdar, Rakesh Miyu and Hirendra Nath Sarma
Department of Zoology (Center with Potential in Excellence in Biodiversity), Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Itanagar-791 112, India.
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 49-60 (2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: isarma14@gmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Laboratory rat (Rattus norvegicus ) is one of the most commonly used model system and the gastrointestinal tract
is the most vital organ system for an organism’s survival. So, a detailed study of its every aspect like pathology, histology,
evolution, etc. is vital. Though various works has been done on the histology of the gastrointestinal tract of rat, this study aims
to describe and illustrate the histomorphology of the esophagus, stomach, intestine and colon (large intestine) of laboratory
rat and also measurements of various parts and layers of the tract with the help of advanced softwares and tools. Formalin
fixed, paraffin embedded sections were used for routine Eosin-Haematoxylin staining and the sections were visualized using
the Leica DM5000B microscope and analyzed using the LAS V4.4 software. Results showed that the gastrointestinal tract in
general is made up of four layers mucosa, submucosa, muscularis and serosa when observed from the luminal side. The
esophagus from inside to outside comprises broadly of a folded Mucosa, Submucosa, Muscularis propria, which is 81.60 μm
thick and Adventitia. Submucosa of stomach is relatively loose and extensible measuring 86.99μm. The serosa layer is the
outermost layer and is very thin. The mucosa of small intestine is folded to from villi. Intestinal villus is of 116.28 μm height
and is lined by a simple, columnar epithelium. The Mucosa of colon (Large intestine) is 184.30 μm, which is lined by numerous
glands responsible for the secretion of gastric juices as well as some protective mucus.
Key words: Colon; Esophagus; Histology; Intestine; Rat; Stomach.
Original Research Article
HPLC Fractionation of Crude Root Bark Extract of Cynoglossum zeylanicum and its Estrogenic Effects Evaluated by Vaginal Cornification Assay.
Rakesh Miyu, Khamhee Wangsa* , Indira Sarma, Upasha Gowala, Purba Jyoti Saikia, Hirendra N. Sarma
Department of Zoology (Center with Potential for Excellence in Biodiversity), Rajiv Gandhi University, Rono Hills, Itanagar – 791 112, India
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 61-70 (2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: Khamhee@hotmail.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Cynoglossum zeylanicum (Vahl exHornem. Thunb. exLehm. [Boraginaceae]) is a common shrub found in Lower
Dibang Valley district of Arunachal Pradesh. The root bark is used by certain local people belonging to the Idu Mishmi tribe
to deal with issues of female reproduction. The present investigation was designed to examine the effect of crude root bark
extract’s estrogenic effects in vivo and fractionation by semi preparative HPLC. The extract of dry root bark was prepared in
methanol. A threshold dose (1000mg/kg body weight/day) was administered through oral route to adult ovariectomized
(OVX) and ovary intact female albino mice model. Crude extract was administered through oral route for two consecutive
estrous cycles and for similar period in OVX. Vaginal smear was taken during the study period to determine the rate of
cornification. Number of nucleated epithelial cells and cornified cells were considered only in the smear during the experiment.
Cornification assay was performed by cell count of cornified cells and nucleated epithelial cells observed in smear in cm-1. Rate
of cornification was expressed in terms of change in fold of cornification than the base line count on day 1 of treatment. Data
were statistically analysed using students’ t test. Semi preparative HPLC - PDA was employed to study the characteristic
compound present in the extract. The results showed significant increase in the rate of cornification not only in ovary intact
mice but also induced vaginal cornification in ovariectomized model. The chromatographic fractionation in HPLC-PDA indicated
several peak at different RT.
Key words: Cornification assay; Cynoglossum zeylanicum ; Estrous cycle; HPLC - PDA.
Original Research Article
Nutrient Content of Eri Silkworm (Samia ricini Donovan) Pupa in Relation
to Larval Food Plants
L.N. Kakati* and Merenjungla
Department of Zoology, Nagaland University, Lumami-798627, Nagaland, India
Journal of Bioresources 4(1): 71-75 (2017) ISSN 2394-4315
Email: kakati_ln@yahoo.com
View Abstract | PDF
Abstract: Comparative analysis of pupal nutrient content of eri silkworm feeding on three alternative food plants i.e. Evodia
fraxinifolia (Payam), Heteropanax fragrans (Kesseru) and Manihot utilissim a (Tapioca) along with the primary food plant
Ricinus communis (Castor) was done in Nagaland, India to highlight the effect of food plants. Carbohydrate content was
recorded to be maximum in Tapioca fed pupae followed by that of Kesseru, Castor and Payam. Total nitrogen and Protein
content was maximum in Castor and minimum in Payam, however there was no significant difference in organic carbon,
potassium, phosphorous and calcium content among the four food plants. Crude fat was found to be maximum in Payam and
minimum in Kesseru. Variation in pupal nutrient content depends on the foliar constituents of different food plants of which
castor is considered to be the best food plant followed by Tapioca, Payam and Kesseru to produce nutrient rich pupae and
comparable with even non eri silkworm pupae as reported in other studies. Value addition to silkworm pupae can be
enhanced by finding suitable preservation methods for wider market acceptability and for commercializing the concept of
utilization.
Key words: Alternative food plants; India; Nagaland; Pupal nutrient content; Samia ricini
Volume 4:Issue 1
January-June 2017
