Journal of Applied Bioscience

A Catalogue of Tri-Trophic Associations of Arthropod Predators, Aphids, and Their Host Plants in Different Districts of Maharashtra, India

Rajendra Singh — 2026-06-30

The present article deals with the tri-trophic associations of aphidophagous arthropods in Maharashtra, India. The compiled data reveal 354 distinct tri-trophic associations involving 51 aphidophagous predator species (insects and spiders), 17 aphid species, and 26 host plant species across 14 districts of the state. Predators belong to two arthropod classes, Arachnida (Araneae: seven spider families) and Insecta (Coleoptera, Diptera, Hemiptera, Lepidoptera, and Neuroptera), encompassing both generalist and specialist feeding guilds. Coccinellidae emerged as the most species-rich and widely distributed group (23 species; 207 associations), followed by spiders (17 species; 65 associations) and Syrphidae (five species; 40 associations). Aphid–predator interactions were most frequent on Aphis gossypii, Myzus persicae, Aphis craccivora, Lipaphis erysimi, Rhopalosiphum maidis, and Ceratovacuna lanigera, primarily on economically important crops.
Spatially, Kolhapur, Pune, Akola, and Aurangabad accounted for the majority of records, while nearly two-thirds of Maharashtra remains unexplored. Overall, the results indicate a functionally integrated but comparatively under-documented trophic network relative to northern Indian states. This consolidated account provides a critical baseline for ecological research, biodiversity assessment, and the development of region-specific integrated pest management strategies in Maharashtra.

An Upadated Checklist of Tri-Trophic Associations of Arthropod Predators, Aphids, and Their Host Plants in Different Districts of Rajasthan, India

Rajendra Singh — 2026-06-30

The study documents 96 tri-trophic associations involving 20 predator species, 11 aphid species, and 35 host plants across 9 districts of Rajasthan. The network ranges from highly specialised to strongly polyphagous interactions. Coccinellidae dominated, with Coccinella septempunctata and Cheilomenes sexmaculata showing the highest ecological amplitude (21 triplets each). Syrphids exhibited moderate diversity, while hemipterans were limited and Chrysoperla zastrowi sillemi represented the most important neuropteran predator. Among aphids, Lipaphis erysimi and Brevicoryne brassicae were the most widely exploited, whereas Aphis nerii and Rhopalosiphum padi were highly specialised. Cruciferous crops (Brassica spp.) formed the main centres of interaction, followed by Coriandrum sativum and Zea mays. Udaipur emerged as the main hotspot, while other districts showed moderate to low diversity. The limited distribution of records is primarily due to insufficient survey effort, along with ecological and agricultural factors. Overall, the results highlight a complex but underexplored tri-trophic network with strong implications for biological control.

The Foundational and Applied Taxonomic Applications of Pollen Traits

Nanhelal Gupta — 2026-06-30

Accurate taxonomic identification is fundamental to systematic biology and the successful conservation of flora. But phenotypic plasticity, cryptic speciation and inadequate plant material often get in the way. Palynology offers a strong and autonomous source of evidence to address the chemicals and physical foresee difficulties. The basic ideas behind palynotaxonomy and about how it can be used to classify plants and protect endangered plants, with an emphasis on India. The analysis shows that pollen grains have a wide range of stable, heritable, and taxonomically important qualitative (e.g., aperture type, pollen unit, exine ornamentation) and quantitative (e.g., pollen size, P/E ratio, exine thickness) traits. We analyze the impact of contemporary methodologies, such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the statistical amalgamation of morphometric data (e.g., PCA, cluster analysis), on the conversion of traditional attributes into dependable, objective datasets. This review demonstrates the practical application of these traits in clarifying taxonomic uncertainties within intricate groups (e.g., Fabaceae, Impatiens), validating endangered medicinal plants (Rauvolfia), and offering diagnostic indicators for endemic genera (e.g., Acanthaceae) through case studies from the Indian flora. Finally, we discuss about how palynology can help with conservation in a direct way, not just as a way to identify plants and animals but also as a sensitive sign of reproductive health and environmental stress. Palynology has been shown as an essential, economical, and important field that enhances molecular phylogenetics and provides critical information for biodiversity studies.

In-silico Screening of Anticancer Potential of Pongamia pinnata and Rubia cordifolia Phytoconstituents: A Molecular Docking Approach

Sunil Tiwari — 2026-06-30

Pongamia pinnata Linn belongs to Fabaceae and Rubia cordifolia belongs to Rubiaceae families, holds a significant place in herbal medicine. The present study aims to determine the anticancer properties of the R. cordifolia and P. pinnata. Both plants are rich in active constituents, responsible for the treatment of various diseases. Since in-silico methods are promising and useful for drug design through natural plants, the present research includes the in-silico evaluation to elucidate the anticancer potential of P. pinnata and R. cordifolia against ERα (PDB ID: 1R5K) and BRCA1 (PDB ID: 1JNX), targets associated with breast cancer. Docking results showed strong binding affinities between active constituents of R. cordifolia and P. pinnata with BRCA1, ranging from (-6.2 to -6.8 kcal/mol), and with another target Erαconstituents of R. cordifolia exhibited strong interactions, ranging from (-5.4 to -8.8 kcal/mol), while P. pinnata constituent from (-6.2 to -8.1 kcal/mol). Both the plants displayed the highest binding affinities with stable hydrogen bonds. These findings suggest a promising potential of R. cordifolia and P. Pinnata against breast cancer.

Neuroprotective Role of Phyllanthus acidus Against Nicotine-Induced Neuroinflammation and Memory Impairment in Experimental Rats

Kanchan Chatterjee — 2026-06-30

The neuroprotective effect of Phyllanthus acidus extract against nicotine-induced neuroinflammation and cognitive impairment in experimental rats was examined in this work. Four groups of adult rats were created: control, nicotine-exposed (1 mg/kg, i.p.), Phyllanthus acidus-treated (100 mg/kg) and nicotine + Phyllanthus acidus-treated groups. Significant memory impairments, increased oxidative stress in brain regions, especially in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex and heightened neuroinflammatory markers were all brought on by nicotine treatment. In rats given nicotine, histopathological analysis showed altered cellular architecture, inflammatory cell infiltration and neuronal degeneration. On the other hand, Phyllanthus acidus extract therapy significantly increased antioxidant enzyme activity, decreased pro-inflammatory cytokines, and enhanced behavioral performance. Additionally, it enhanced histoarchitecture and maintained neuronal integrity in the impacted brain areas. According to the results, Phyllanthus acidus significantly reduces oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. As a result, it might be a useful medication to stop the neurodegenerative alterations and cognitive deficits brought on by nicotine.

Phytochemical Profiling and Evaluation of Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Activities of Leucas aspera Leaf Extract

R Y Giri — 2026-06-30

The current study assesses the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of Leucas aspera leaf extract and looks into its phytochemical makeup. To separate the bioactive components, plant material was extracted sequentially using solvents of increasing polarity. The existence of important secondary metabolites, such as flavonoids, alkaloids, terpenoids, and saponins, was confirmed by preliminary qualitative phytochemical screening. A substantial abundance of polyphenolic compounds was indicated by the methanolic extract's greatest total phenolic content (142.6 ± 4.1 mg gallic acid equivalents per gram), according to quantitative estimation. Using the DPPH radical scavenging experiment, antioxidant activity showed a concentration-dependent impact with an IC²₀ value of 42.8 µg/mL, indicating great potential for scavenging free radicals. The disc diffusion method was used to assess the extract's antibacterial activity, and it demonstrated significant inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus and other tested microbiological strains. These results support Leucas aspera's traditional medicinal use and demonstrate its potential as a promising natural source of bioactive chemicals with important antibacterial and antioxidant qualities. To separate and describe the active ingredients for possible medicinal uses, more research is advised.

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Seasonal Influence of Antibiotics and Botanicals on Development, Reproductive Performance and Cocoon Characteristics of Bombyx mori l.

Prachi Rathod — 2026-06-30

The influences of antibiotic supplementation and use of botanical disinfectants on development, reproductive potential and commercial characters of mulberry silkworm, Bombyx mori L have been evaluated. The study was carried out for during monsoon, winter and summer seasons over three consecutive years using bivoltine double hybrid race CSR₂ × CSR₄. Treatments consisted of Azithromycin and Ofloxacinas as antibiotics, and botanicals such as neem, tulsi, karanj as disinfectants. Various parameters such as larval weight, mortality, cocoon formation, cocoon weight, shell ratio, denier, fecundity and egg hatching have been evaluated. The results showed significant changes in silkworm performance. Groups supplemented with antibiotics particularly Ofloxacin and Azithromycin, reduced the larval mortality and increased cocoon productivity, whereas treatments with neem and tulsi improved shell ratio and reproductive performance. The results obtained during winter and summer supported growth and commercial traits as compared to monsoon season. The study suggests that antibiotic supplementation together with selected botanical treatments may improve the silkworm health and cocoon productivity influenced during different climatic conditions.

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A Study on Butterfly Diversity in the Sagar District of the Bundelkhand Region, Central India

Anita Ahirwal — 2026-06-30

Butterflies are widely recognized as important bioindicators and charismatic species for biodiversity conservation and environmental monitoring. The present study investigates the diversity, seasonal variation, and distribution patterns of butterflies in Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India, with the aim of providing baseline data for ecological assessment and conservation planning. Surveys were conducted across multiple study sites, including university campus, urban localities, and semi-natural habitats, over five months from January to May 2026. The study documented 34 butterfly species belonging to five families and associated with 23 nectar plant species. Nymphalidae was the most dominant family (41.2%), reflecting considerable butterfly diversity in the study area. The study revealed significant seasonal fluctuation, with the highest abundance and diversity observed during the monsoon and post-monsoon period, while comparatively lower diversity was recorded in winter months. Family-wise distribution showed dominance of certain groups, reflecting habitat suitability and resource availability. The findings emphasize the ecological importance of maintaining habitat heterogeneity and plant diversity to support butterfly populations. This study provides essential insights into butterfly biodiversity in Sagar and highlights its relevance for future conservation strategies and sustainable urban and regional planning.

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Integrated Approaches to Zinc Management in Soil to Improve Spinach Production in Alluvial Soil

Sanya Misra — 2026-06-30

A clay pot experiment was conducted to study the effect of integrated approach of zinc management in alluvial soil (texture- sandy loam, pH 7.9, organic matter contents 0.48%) and low status of zinc (<0.6 ppm). The various modes of zinc treatment viz. T₁- Nil (control), T₂- ZnSO₄ @25 mg/kg soil, T₃- Zinc enriched compost extract (40%), T₄- Citric acid + Zn (1 ppm) and T₅- Integrated formulation of Hewitt’s nutrients (0.1%) + compost and addition of clay soil (5%). Spinach plants were grown in above soil. Some important growth, biochemical parameters and antioxidative enzymes were determined at day 65 of growth. The maximum effect of growth was shown at integrated formulation of zinc management.

Effect of Zinc and Phosphorus Applications in Soil and Temperature Variation on Growth and Production of Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.)

Sadhana Devi — 2026-06-30

A clay pot experiment was conducted in glass top wire house to study the interactive effects of zinc and phosphorus application in soil on growth (length and dry weight), some biochemical constituents (pigments and protein contents and the activity of catalase and peroxidase) and production of fruits and seeds. Black gram (Vigna mungo L., Var. Haramoti) seeds were sown in clay pots field with alluvial soil (Texture- sandy loam, pH moderately alkaline and low organic matter content). Biochemical parameters were determined at day 65 of the growth in leaves of black gram. Before sowing treatments were made such as I- nil (control), II- ZnSO₄ @25 mg/kg soil, III- Single Super Phosphate (SSP) @50 mg/kg soil, IV- ZnSO₄ + SSP and V- ZnSO₄ + SSP + low temperature (20^oC) exposure for 4 hrs. up to the 25 days. Single application of zinc sulphate promoted all the parameters observed. Phosphorus application @50 mg/kg soil supported maximum plant growth such as dry weight by +54% but showed low value of pigments and protein content. Overall study showed the antagonistic effect of zinc and phosphorus fertilization on biochemical constituents and reproductive yield of black gram.

Histopathological Study of Acanthocephalan Parasite Pallisentis of Channa marulius (Hamilton, 1973) Fish with Sem Morphology

Chandni Fatima Naqvi — 2026-06-30

Specimens of the freshwater carnivorous fish Channa marulius, were collected from the Gomti River, Lucknow. The present study investigated the histopathological alterations in the intestine of C. marulius induced by the acanthocephala parasite. Dissection and examination of the fish revealed acanthocephalans firmly attached to the intestinal wall. Histopathological analyses were conducted to assess tissue damage, while Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was employed to examine parasite morphology. The results demonstrated severe disruption of the intestinal mucosa and submucosa. The acanthocephalan proboscis penetrated deep into the intestinal wall, extending through the lamina propria of the mucosal epithelium and into the external muscularis layer. The marked compression and degeneration of the intestinal villi were also observed, leading to villus shortening and extensive structural damage.

Integrative Biology: The Future of Life Science in an Interconnected World

Geetanjali Mishra — 2026-06-30

For much of the twentieth century, biology advanced through specialization. Genetics, ecology, physiology, molecular biology, taxonomy, developmental biology, and behaviour evolved into distinct disciplines, each generating remarkable discoveries within its own boundaries. This reductionist approach enabled scientists to uncover the structure of DNA, decipher metabolic pathways, and understand the mechanisms underlying inheritance and disease.