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2016 - 201858
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Subject: Horticulture × End date: 2018 × Start date: 2016 × Type: Thesis ×
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Extraction and utilization of anthocyanin pigments from jamun ( Syzygium cumini L. )
    (Department of Processing Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Naresh, N; KAU; Sheela, K B
    The project entitled “Extraction and utilization of anthocyanin pigments from jamun (Syzygium cumini Skeels.)” was undertaken at the Department of Processing Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara during 2013-15. The objectives of the study were standardization of method of extraction of anthocyanin pigment and evaluation of pigment stability to pH, light, temperature, storage conditions and in processed products. Method for extraction of anthocyanin pigments from jamun was standardized. Among the four extraction methods compared, highest content of anthocyanin (61.07mg/100g), recovery per cent (13.75), colour hue (1.30) and colour intensity (1.13) were obtained for acidified solvent extraction method (20% ethanol + 0.5% citric acid). The effect of light and storage conditions on pigment stability was evaluated. Storage in amber coloured bottles under refrigerated conditions was found to be best for anthocyanin pigment due to lesser degradation of the pigment compared to that stored under ambient conditions. The effect of temperature on the anthocyanin content was studied at 70, 80 and 900 C and anthocyanin content was measured at intervals 30 minutes, 45 minutes and one hour of incubation at each temperature. Anthocyanin content decreased from an initial value of 61.25mg/100g to 50.24mg/100g one hour of heating at 900 C. The effect of pH on stability of anthocyanin pigment was studied at different pH ranging from 2.5 to 7 and incubating it for different intervals from one hour to 20 days at room temperature. Anthocyanin content was found to decrease with increase in pH and the least decrease was found at pH 2.5. Anthocyanin content was found to decrease from an initial value of 61.25mg/100g to 34.28mg/100g 20 days after incubation at a pH of 7. Least changes in pH were observed in RTS beverage prepared with 0.3% citric acid and 0.01% ascorbic acid and stored at refrigerated condition (T10). Acidity of the RTS beverage followed an increasing trend during storage, greatest change in acidity was observed in T8 (product coloured with synthetic colour). Ascorbic acid was found to decrease with increase in duration of storage, minimum changes in ascorbic acid was observed in RTS beverage prepared with 0.4% citric acid and 0.02% ascorbic acid and stored at refrigerated condition (T14). RTS beverage stored under refrigerated conditions retained colour throughout the storage period as compared to ambient condition where there was a greater loss of the colour. Addition of ascorbic acid was found to hasten the colour degradation of the beverage under ambient conditions, but under refrigerated conditions there was not much change in colour. Pigment stability in mixed fruit jam was also studied by storing the prepared product under ambient and refrigerated conditions for a period of three months. pH of the mixed fruit jam followed a declining trend during storage, least change in pH was observed in T1 (control under refrigerated condition) during storage. There was no significant change in the colour of the mixed fruit jam stored under refrigerated conditions. A slight darkening of the colour was seen in the bottles stored at ambient condition. Guava RTS beverage and mixed fruit jam was organoleptically evaluated by selected panel of judges. The products kept under refrigerated conditions recorded highest scores for flavour, texture, taste and overall acceptability compared to those kept at ambient conditions three months after storage.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Seed invigoration to overcome dormancy in ash gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.)
    (Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Shobha, K V; KAU; Rose Mary, Francies
    An experiment ‘Seed invigoration to overcome dormancy in ash gourd (Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn.),’ was conducted during 2014-2016 in the Department of Seed Science and Technology, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural University (KAU), Vellanikkara, Thrissur, following a completely randomized design with 16 treatments and three replications. The experiment aimed to elucidate the effect of seed invigoration on dormancy in ash gourd, to ascertain the anatomical changes in seed coat on seed treatment and to assess the storage potential of treated seeds under ambient conditions. Seed invigoration was resorted to by soaking seeds of variety KAU Local in water (hydro priming) for 24 hours, thiourea (0.5%) for 24 hours, KNO3 (0.4%) for 24 hours, KNO3 (0.7%) for 24 hours, KH2PO4 (10-1 M) for 24 hours, vinegar (pH 3.7) for 2 hours, polyethylene glycol 6000 (-0.5 MPa) for 24 hours, salicylic acid (60 ppm) for 12 hours, salicylic acid (60 ppm) for 24 hours, kinetin (10 ppm) for 12 hours, kinetin (10 ppm) for 24 hours, CaCl2 (50 mM) for 12 hours, CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours, Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1) for 12 hours, Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1 ) for 24 hours. Untreated seeds served as control (T16). Both treated and untreated seeds, dried to < 8 per cent moisture content were packed in polythene bags (400 guage) and stored under ambient conditions upto ten months. The seed quality parameters viz., germination, germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, mean time to germination, vigour indices I and II, and electrical conductivity of seed leachate were recorded at monthly intervals during storage. Seed microflora as well as histochemical studies to analyse the changes occurring in the dimensions of embryo and proportions of different fractions of seed coat were assessed at bimonthly intervals. Results pointed out the existence of significant differences in the impact of various invigoration treatments on the seed quality and histochemical parameters observed both within 35 days of invigoration as well as during storage. Majority of the seed invigoration treatments were effective in breaking dormancy in ash gourd. Dormancy was first broken in seeds treated with KH2PO4 and kinetin. In the above treatments germination reached above 60 per cent (the minimum standards for seed certification (MSCS) prescribed for ash gourd) on the 11th day after invigoration (DAI). Dormancy in untreated seed was broken only on the 35th day after extraction. However, seed invigoration with salicylic acid, vinegar and PEG 6000, proved to be detrimental. Seed invigoration also helped in extending the viability of seeds. Germination in seeds treated with CaCl2 for 24 hours, was found to be retained above MSCS for seven months during storage, whereas, in untreated seeds, germination above 60 per cent was observed for two months only. Seeds treated with salicylic acid failed to germinate by 35th DAI while those treated with vinegar and polyethylene glycol (PEG) failed to attain MSCS throughout the period of study. The viability of seeds treated with kinetin or CaCl2 for 12 hours and those treated with Pf for either 12 or 24 hours was found to be retained for six months of storage. Germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, vigour indices I and II in both treated and untreated seeds, increased by 35th DAI and marginally decreased over the period of storage. In all the invigoration treatments, the above mentioned parameters were invariably higher than that of untreated control. However, the performance of seeds treated with salicylic acid, vinegar and PEG 6000 was lower than the untreated seeds. Invariably, the germination index, coefficient of velocity of germination, energy of germination, vigour indices I and II were high in seeds treated with CaCl2 for 24 hours followed by treatment with Pf for 12 hours and CaCl2 for 12 hours. The mean time to germination, electrical conductivity of seed leachate, the thickness of seed coat and its component layers as well as the microbial infection of seed was also observed to be low in these treatments. High and significant positive correlation was found to exist between germination and speed of germination, coefficient of velocity of germination, vigour indices I and II. It became evident that germination in ash gourd will be strongly affected with an increase in thickness of total seed coat or its outer layerthe testa. The thickening of seed coat owing to the thickening of testa will be accompanied with an obvious decrease in germination, germination index and coefficient of velocity of germination, vigour indices I and II. Results thus indicated that poor germination in seeds of ash gourd may be due to water impermeable seed coat (physical dormancy) mainly resulting from thickening of the outer layer (testa). Such dormancy in ash gourd can be best overcome by seed invigoration with CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours. In addition, enhancement of seed viability, seed quality and seedling performance over storage was also achieved. Seed treatment with CaCl2 (50 mM) or Psuedomonas fluorescens (1x106 cfu.ml-1), for 12 hours were found to be the next best to treatment with CaCl2 (50 mM) for 24 hours. Hence, these can also be recommended for breaking dormancy and maintaining high seed quality in ash gourd.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Characteization and evaluation of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) accessions
    (Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Vikram, H C; KAU; Mini Raj, N
    Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) is an introduced crop to India. There exists tremendous variability in the nutmeg population in Kerala, which is the major nutmeg growing state in the country. Assessment of the existing variability is a prerequisite for taking up successful crop improvement programmes, which is very much limited in this tree spice. In this context, the present study entitled “Characterization and evaluation of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) accessions” was taken up exclusively with the specific objectives to characterize nutmeg accessions based on morphological, biochemical and molecular parameters so as to scale the variability in a multidimensional way. Select fifty nutmeg accessions from a core germplasm collected and maintained in a private plantation in the Chalakudy river basin, belonging to age of fifteen years, formed the material for the study. Among the select fifty accessions, forty two were females, four monoecious and four males. In the morphological characterization, 51 qualitative and 38 quantitative characters were recorded from two trees per accession. Biochemical characterization was done in the select seventeen distinct accessions. GC-MS profiling was done in kernel and mace oils. Biochemical constituents of fresh pericarp were estimated. Isozyme profiling was done for peroxidase and polyphenol oxidase enzymes. The molecular characterization was attempted with 21 RAPD and 12 ISSR primers after screening. A key for identification of an elite nutmeg tree was developed. A descriptor for nutmeg with a set of 51 qualitative and 38 quantitative parameters and descriptor states for each of these characters was developed as the first step. This is the first study of its kind to develop a minimal descriptor for nutmeg. The descriptor developed from the present study was simultaneously utilised for morphological characterization and evaluation of the accessions. Wide variability was noticed among the accessions for 47 out of 51 qualitative characters. Four characters viz., leaf margin, fruit pubescence, grooves on nut and nature of fruit dehiscence were noted as non variable characters and hence, these were not included for further analysis. Based on the qualitative characters, accessions were classified into 11 clusters at 66 per cent similarity level. Accessions differed significantly for all the quantitative characters except shelling percentage. Performance evaluation of the accessions brought out the superiority of accession 8, 9 and 22 for yield. The accessions showed high GCV, PCV, h2 and genetic gain for most of the characters. Number of fruits per tree, fruit set percentage, number of fruits per m2, fresh and dry weight of mace, mace volume as well ratio of nut to mace exhibited high genetic gain. Hence, selection programme based on these characters will be very effective in improving the base populations. Based on Mahalanobis D2 analysis, accessions were grouped into 10 clusters. Wide range of variation was observed in contents of volatile oil, oleoresin and fixed oil of kernel and mace. Based on these constituents accessions were grouped into 26 clusters, which indicated their distinct quality. Based on the results of the morphological characterization, seventeen distinct accessions were selected for further biochemical and molecular analysis. GC-MS analysis of kernel and mace oils exhibited 20 and 24 constituents respectively. Volatile oil composition exhibited wide variability for the major constituents viz., myristicin, elemicin, safrole and sabinene apart from the presence of some unique compounds. Grouping of the accessions was done based on the per cent content of these important compounds. Two accessions recorded high contents of both myristicin and elemicin whereas another two accessions were in the complimentary; belonging to low myristicin group. High sabinene combined with low myristicin was the intrinsic quality attribute of one of the accessions. Change, as well as addition/deletion of specific constituents was also noticed in the volatile oils after storage for one year. Accessions exhibited wide range of variation in the biochemical constituents of pericarp, a valuable information for the value addition of pericarp. Total phenol and tannins exhibited high variation. The accessions were ranked based on the content of biochemical constituents. Isozyme profiling using peroxidase enzyme produced four bands and that based on polyphenol oxidase exhibited three bands. Molecular markers could assess the variability among the accessions. The selected 21 RAPD primers produced a total of 164 amplicons of which 63.21 per cent were polymorphic. The 12 ISSR primers selected produced a total of 87 amplicons of which 69.44 per cent were polymorphic. Few unique bands were detected for specific characters. Inter cluster association of each of the qualitative clusters with other clustering patterns was worked out. The results indicated the differences as well as similarities of the qualitative clusters with other clustering patterns. Finally, key quantitative characters were identified based on their direct and indirect effect on yield as also economic importance. The statistical key thus developed using 13 key quantitative characters will serve as a preliminary tool for identification of an elite nutmeg tree.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    General combining ability of selected black pod disease resistant cocoa(Theobroma cacao L.)hybrids
    (Department of Plantation Crops, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2016) Varsha Babu; KAU; Suma, B
    Cocoa originated in the Amazon riverbasin of South America. The cultivation of cocoa had extended from Mexico to Costa Rica and over the time it had spread to Caribbean and other parts of South America (Wood and Lass» 1985). It was introduced to India during 1979. The generic name Theobronia was derived from two greek words 'Theo' means god and 'hroma' means food, hence known as '"food of god". The beans are the only source for chocolate. Cocoa is affected by many biotic and abiotic stresses. Among the biotic stresses Phytophthora pod rot is the most serious one affecting cocoa, leading to a total of 64% yield loss (Adomako, 2007). Therefore the control of black pod is a major challenge for cultivation of cocoa. The farmers adopt several measures to control the disease of which the use of copper based fungicides is the most predominant one (Tan and Tan, 1990). Although it is reasonably effective, their indiscriminate use poses serious environmental issues. To overcome this situation breeding for resistance to black pod is the most economical, environmental friendly and effective control method (Iwaro et al., 2004). Hence an organized breeding progianmiewas initiated at Cocoa Research Center (CRC), KAU, Vellanikkara during 2005 for the development of varieties resistance to black pod disease and high yield. Twenty five hybrids showing considerable level of resistance after 6 years of screening were selected for the present study. The morphological evaluation ot these hybrids were earned out based on eight qualitative and eight quantitative characters.Variability was observed among the hybrids for all the qualitative characters and quantitative characters. Among the hybrids, hybrid H22 recorded the highest pod weight (724g) and total wet bean weight per pod (176.98g). Tlie husk thickness and number of ilat beans were lowest for hybrid H16 (0.86 cm) and HII (1.40). Self incompatibility was assessed by self pollinating 100 flowers per hybrids. Twenty two hybrids turned to be self incompatible, one self compatible and rest with insufficient number of flowers. Out of 22 self incompatible hybrids eleven were selected for further study based on their yield (No. ol pods/ tree/ year). They were crossed with tester (G.I 5.9) in top cross model and only four yielded fruits. Seedlings were raised in the nursery and observations were recorded in the third month. The analysis of variance of top cross showed significant variation for two characters. The characters like height, diameter, chlorophyll and number of leaves did not express any significant difference. HD2is considered as an indicator of initial vigour and it is found to be directly correlated to the final vigour.The significant value for variance (p Vs c) for HD2 indicated substantial difference between the parents as agroup and their hybrid progenies as another group. This shows that the average hetero.sis is significantly high. Seven hybrids out of selected eleven did not yield any pod on cross pollination, progenies developed from open pollinated pods of these hybrid.s were evaluated to predict the performance of the parent. Progenies expressed high HD2 value. Based on this, these parents can be considered as superior ones. However this has to be confirmed further by crossing them with another tester. Nursery screening for Phytophthora resistance of top cross progeny and open pollinated progeny of all eleven selected hybrids were done at two weeks interval for three months. Lab screening for disease resistance was carried out in semi translucent leaves from all the progenies raised through top cross and open pollinated method along with control for eight days by providing artificial inoculation and percentage of infection was calculated. No disease incidence was noticed in any progenies indicating high GCA for this character. H 17 found to be superior combiner can be evaluated in comparative yield trial. H4, HIS and H8 were selected as superior ones based on the performance of open pollinated progeny which has to be further evaluated with another tester.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Collection and evaluation of marigold (Tagetes spp.) genotypes for humid tropics
    (Department of Pomology and Floriculture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2017) Shajma Nafeesa, Basheer; KAU; Sabina George, T
    The present study entitled ‘Collection and evaluation of marigold (Tagetes spp.) genotypes for humid tropics was conducted in the Department of Pomology and Floriculture, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2012-2015, with an objective to collect and evaluate the genotypes of Tagetes spp. for growth, yield of fresh flowers and floral attributes in two planting seasons, ie, October and May planting and to select promising genotypes for loose flower production and for landscaping. The experimental material consisted of twenty five genotypes of Tagetes erecta and five genoytpes of Tagetes patula. These were evaluated in the field in a randomized block design with three replications. Significant differences were observed among the genotypes for plant growth characters, foliage characters, flowering and yield characters and flower characters in both planting seasons. In both October and May plantings, TEG 5 and TEG 6 maintained greater plant height and the lowest plant height were found to be in TPG 17 and TPG 18. The maximum plant spread was recorded in TEG 5 in October planting and in TPG 21 in May planting. The highest number of primary branches per plant was recorded in TEG 6 followed by TEG 5 in October planting and in TEG 16 followed by TEG 5 and TEG 8 in May planting. The highest number of secondary branches was recorded by TEG 14 in October planting and by TPG 21 in May planting. Among flowering and yield characters, in October planting, the lowest number of days to flowering was recorded in Tagetes patula genotypes, TPG 19, TPG 18 and TPG 21 (33.33 days) and the lowest number of days to flower opening in TPG 21 and TPG 17 (45.33 days). In May planting, the Tagetes erecta genotype TEG 11 recorded the lowest number of days to flower initiation (49.00) and flower opening (68.33). TEG 29 recorded the longest flowering duration in both October and May planting. The maximum number of flowers per plant and flower yield per plant was observed in TEG 16 in October planting. In May planting, TPG 18 followed by TEG 16 recorded the maximum number of flowers. The genotype TEG 16 also recorded the highest flower yield per plant in May planting and the highest number of viable seeds per plant in both the seasons. TEG 11 recorded higher values for fresh weight of flower in both the seasons of investigation. In October planting and May planting, the highest value for petal meal per kg of fresh flowers was recorded in TEG 29 and the maximum petal meal per ha was recorded in TEG 5 in October planting and in TEG 29 in May planting. The highest total carotenoid content was recorded by TEG 3 followed by TEG 2 in both the seasons. Among the flower characters, TEG 5 the highest number of ligulate floret whorls and TEG 11 recorded the highest value for length of floret, flower diameter, girth of floral receptacle in both the seasons. Significantly higher flower stalk length was observed for TEG 3 and the longest vase life was recorded by TEG 7 in both the seasons of investigation. Genetic variability studies showed that genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was higher than phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for all the characters. High GCV and PCV and high heritability was observed for all the characters studied. Correlation studies revealed a highly significant positive correlation of flower yield with number of flowers per plant, plant spread, fresh weight of flowers, length of floret, crop duration and number of secondary branches per plant. Path analysis studies showed that fresh weight of flowers had the highest direct positive effect on flower yield per plant followed by number of flowers per plant and plant height. Cluster analysis based on D2 values divided the thirty genotypes of marigold into six clusters with Cluster V recording the maximum number of genotypes and Cluster I, the minimum number of genotypes.Seasonal evaluation of the genotypes showed that May planting was found to be better than October planting in terms of plant growth characters, flower yield and flower characteristics. Earlier initiation of flowering was however observed in October planting in all the genotypes. The present study revealed that, the Tagetes erecta genotypes TEG 5, TEG 29, TEG 25, TEG 30, TEG 22, TEG 11 and TEG 7 may be suitable for commercial loose flower production. The genotype TEG 16 with semiupright habit may be suited for plant compactness and flower production. The genotypes TEG 3 and TEG 2, with higher carotenoid content may be suitable for pigment extraction. The Tagetes patula genotypes, TPG 21 and TPG 18 with dwarf spreading plant habit and the Tagetes erecta genotype TEG 11 with semiupright plant habit may be suitable as flowering ground covers in landscaping. The wide range of genetic variability available in marigold genotypes can be utilized for further crop improvement programmes through direct selection and hybridization.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Development of tropical gynoecious lines in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
    (Department of Olericulture, College of Horticulture, vellanikkara, 2016) Karthika, A K; KAU; Pradeepkumar, T
    The present study ‘Development of tropical gynoecious lines in (Cucumber sativus L.) was carried out at Department of Olericulture, College of Horticulture, Kerala Agricultural university, Vellanikkara, Thrissur during August - November 2014 and February - May 2015 to evaluate the F1 hybrids and their F2 population for identifying stable tropical gynoecious lines of salad cucumber. Twelve hybrids produced by crossing gynoecious line EC 709119 with selected tropical monoecious parents were evaluated for gynoecy under rainshelter. Observations on important quantitative and qualitative characters were recorded. These hybrids were selfed to generate F2 population. F2 population was evaluated for expression of gynoecious character, viz., days taken for female flower anthesis, node at which first female flower emerged and total number of female flowers. The data was subjected to analysis of variance and variability among the genotypes was calculated. Most of the characters exhibited high heritability except for fruit parameters like fruit length, fruit girth and flesh thickness. For gynoecy F2 population from the cross EC 709119 x IC 538186 was observed as the most promising one. This population took only minimum days to form female flower and took minimum number of nodes to form female flower with highest number of female flowers and minimum male flowers. Sex ratio was estimated for parents, F1 hybrids and F2 population. Some of the parents having high sex ratio failed to transmit the same to its hybrid progenies. Among the parents, IC 538186 exhibited highest sex ratio. The highest sex ratio among the F2 population was for EC 709119 x IC 538186. Two populations viz., EC 709119 x IC 527427 and EC 709119 X IC 538186 exhibited a sex ratio of more than 2. The 4 F2 population evaluated for gynoecious trait were classified into monoecious and gynoecious character and tested for goodness of fit based on chi square test with monohybrid ratio of 3:1 being monoecy dominant over gynoecy. Out of the 4 populations, 2 populations were found to express significant value and fit in 3:1 ratio for dominant monoecious trait. The other 2 populations failed to fit in the 3:1 ratio. Bitterness was an important quality character which was absent in most of the parents except three of them during initial harvest. The crosses involving parents prone to bitterness were found to be bitter during later harvest, though all crosses were free of bitterness during initial stage. During later harvests, five parents were found to be bitter. Downy mildew incidence on parents and F1 hybrids were analyzed and Percentage of Disease Intensity (PDI) was estimated. Among parents, IC 538186 exhibited minimum infection and falls under the category of moderate resistance. Hybrid, EC 709119 x IC 538186 exhibited minimum infection and falls under the category of moderate resistance. Among 12 F2 populations, EC 709119 x IC 538186 produced maximum number of true gynoecious plants whereas eight F2 populations failed to produce even one true gynoecious plant. This population also exhibited moderate resistance against downy mildew disease and could be selected for developing true breeding stable gynoecious line for future breeding programme. Present investigation proved the scope of developing tropical gynoecious line from temperate lines by crossing with potential-monoecious lines and making selection in advance segregating generations for gynoecy.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Quality evaluation of KAU red rice (oryza sativa L.) varieties
    (Department of community science, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Revathy, G Nadh; KAU; Aneena, E R
    The present study entitled " Quality evaluation of KAU red rice (Oryza sativa L.) varieties was conducted with the objective to assess the effect of parboiling on the physical, biochemical, nutritional, cooking and organoleptic qualities of KAU red rice varieties. The study also aimed to assess the suitability of these rice varieties for the preparation of selected traditional food products. Milling per cent among raw red rice varieties varied from 62.76 per cent (Aathira) to 76 (Ezhome-4) per cent and in parboiled samples ranged from 67.66 per cent (Aiswarya) to 77.33 (Ezhome-4) per cent. The highest milling per cent was observed in Ezhome-4 both raw and parboiled samples. An increase in milling per cent was observed in all the varieties after parboiling. Among red rice varieties head rice recovery ranged from 49.32 per cent (Aiswarya) to 59.15 per cent (Ezhome-4) per cent in raw samples. In parboiled samples the highest head rice recovery was observed in Ezhome-4 (62.86%) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (53.66%). There was no significant variation among red rice varieties in thousand grain weight and were comparable with Jyothi. In parboiled samples an increase in thousand grain weight was observed. Among raw red rice varieties volume weight ranged from 13.87mm3 (Aathira) to 11.84mm3 (Aiswarya). The highest volume weight in parboiled samples was observed in Aathira (14.17mm3) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (11.93mm3). Among red rice varieties the highest L/B ratio 3.24 and 2.98 was observed in control variety Jyothi both raw and parboiled samples. All the selected varieties were of lower grain length than control variety Jyothi. All varieties showed an increase in major physical quality parameters after parboiling. In raw red rice varieties the highest bulk density of 0.72g/ml was observed in varieties Aathira and Ezhome-4. In the case of parboiled samples highest bulk density was observed in Kanchana (0.66g/ml). Water absorption index in raw red rice flour was found to be highest in Aiswarya (25.61) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (22.46). In parboiled rice flour the highest water absorption index was observed in Aathira (23.71) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (22.04). In raw red rice flours, water solubility index in the range of 0.45 (Aathira) to 0.57(Ezhome-4). The highest water solubility index of 0.61 was observed in Ezhome-4 in parboiled samples and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (0.54). The highest syneresis per cent was observed in Samyuktha after 12th day of study in both raw and parboiled samples. In raw samples Samyuktha showed a low gelatinisation temperature index. Varieties Ezhome-4, Aathira, Jyothi, Kanchana and Aiswarya showed intermediate gelatinisation temperature index. In parboiled samples, all six varieties shown intermediate gelatinization temperature as the grains were swollen and collar incomplete and narrow. The cooking time taken by the rice varieties varied from 20.33 minutes (Samyuktha) to 27 minutes (Ezhome-4) in raw samples. In parboiled varieties, cooking time increased which varied from 28.33 minutes (Samyuktha) to 37.66 minutes (Aiswarya). In raw red rice varieties water uptake was in the range of 8.71ml (Ezhome-4) to 7.39ml (Samyuktha). In parboiled samples an increase in water uptake was observed with the highest in Ezhome-4 (12.80ml) variety and lowest in Samyuktha (8.83ml) variety. Volume expansion in raw samples ranged from 5.43 (Ezhome-4) to 4.38 (Aiswarya). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 5.70 (Jyothi) to 4.77 (Samyuktha). The highest amylose content of 24.90 per cent was observed in Aathira and the lowest was in Samyuktha (23.23%) in raw red rice varieties. Among parboiled rice varieties highest amylose content was observed in Ezhome-4 (24.54%) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (23.03%). Gel length of different raw samples ranged from 62.21mm (Kanchana) to 55.76mm (Ezhome-4). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 51.33mm (Aiswarya) to 24.66mm in control variety Jyothi. In raw samples grain elongation ratio was varied from1.47 (Samyuktha) to 1.79 (Aiswarya). No significant variation in grain elongation ratio was observed. A decrease in grain elongation ratio was observed in parboiled samples with the highest in Kanchana (1.61) and the lowest in Samyuktha (1.43). The highest moisture content in raw rice was observed in Aiswarya (12.5%) and the lowest was in Jyothi (10.5%). The highest moisture content in parboiled samples was observed in Aiswarya (11.56%) rice variety and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (9.70%). In raw samples starch content was varied from 70.50g/100(Aiswarya) to 65.83 (Jyothi). In parboiled samples it was ranged from 67.43g/100g (Ezhome-4) to 62.40g/100g (Kanchana). Among raw red rice varieties highest protein was observed in Ezhome-4 (5.50g/100g) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (4.70g/100g). The highest protein content in parboiled samples was noticed in Samyuktha (3.75g/100g) rice variety and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (3.12g/100g). The fat content of different raw samples was in the range of 0.24/100g (Samyuktha) to 0.35g/100g (Aathira). Among parboiled samples the highest fat content was observed in Aathira rice variety (0.48g/100g) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (0.31g/100g). In raw samples highest fibre content of 0.31g/100g was noticed in Ezhome-4 and Samyuktha. The control variety Jyothi obtained lowest fibre content in both raw and parboiled samples. The highest thiamine content in raw rice varieties was reported in Aiswarya (0.08mg/100g) and the lowest of 0.06 was recorded in control variety Jyothi and Samyuktha (0.060mg/100g). In parboiled samples the highest thiamine content was observed in control variety Jyothi (0.087mg) and the lowest was in Samyuktha (0.070mg/100g). The calcium content of raw rice varieties was determined and found that the highest calcium content was observed in Kanchana (5.76mg/100g) and the lowest was in Aiswarya (4.90mg/100g). The highest calcium content in parboiled samples was reported in Kanchana (6.06mg/100g) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (5.50mg/100g). Among raw red rice varieties the highest zinc content was observed in Aathira (1.32mg/100g) and Kanchana (1.32mg/100g) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (1.09mg/100g). In parboiled rice varieties, the highest zinc content was noticed in Samyuktha (1.35mg/100g) and the lowest was in Jyothi (1.25mg/100g). In both raw and parboiled samples highest iron content of 0.61mg/100g and 0.65mg/100g was observed in control variety Jyothi and the lowest of 0.39mg/100g and 0.43mg/100 was observed in Kanchana rice variety. The phosphorus content of raw red rice varieties was estimated and found that the highest value was observed in Aiswarya (131.96mg/100g) and the lowest was in Aathira (127.60mg/100g). In parboiled samples the highest was reported in Aiswarya (132.60mg/100g) and the lowest of 129.93 was observed in Aathira variety. The highest in vitro digestibility in raw rice varieties was observed in Aathira (79.06%) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (72.46%). The highest starch digestibility in parboiled samples was noticed in Aathira (76.16%) and the lowest was in Ezhome-4 (70.06%). The bran oil content of rice varieties was assessed and found that among raw red rice varieties the highest oil content was noticed in Samyuktha (2.10g) and the lowest was in control variety Jyothi (1.26g). In parboiled samples the highest oil content was observed in Aathira (2.16g) and the lowest was in Aiswarya (1.86g) and control variety Jyothi (1.86g). From organoleptic evaluation of products it was found that all the selected varieties were suitable for table rice. Rice variety Kanchana was found to be the most suitable variety for the preparation of idli. For the preparation of idiyappam Ezhome-4 was found to be the most suitable variety. From the present study it was found that quality attributes of selected red rice varieties were comparable with control variety Jyothi. All the varieties showed an increase in physical quality parameters after parboiling. All the selected red rice varieties are suitable for the preparation of traditional food products. The information on grain quality characteristics can be utilised to popularise these red rice varieties specifying the product suitability.
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Standardisation of nursery management practices in pachotti (symplocos cochinchinensis (lour.) s. moore)
    (Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2018) Ajil, M S; KAU; Deepa, S Nair
    The study entitled “Standardisation of nursery management practices in pachotti (Symplocos cochinchinennsis (Lour.) S. Moore)” was carried out in the Department of Plantation Crops and spices, College of Agriculture, Vellayani durng 2017-18. The objective of the study was to evaluate the propagation efficiency of different propagules viz., seeds, stem cuttings and root cuttings and to standardise the potting media for the nursery plants of pachotti. The propagules viz., seeds, stem cuttings and root cuttings for the study were sourced form Jawaharlal Nehru tropical Botanical Gardens and Research Institute, Palode, Thiruvananthapuram and from Wayanad district. The seeds were subjected to in vivo and in vitro germination studies. In in vivo study, among the pretreatments tried, viz., physical treatments, chemical priming and bio priming, only physical treatment of scarification (with sand paper) responded with a very low germination of 2 per cent. The germination commenced after two months of the treatment. Other in vivo pretreatments as well as in vitro treatments did not give any germination. In vegetative propagation, stem cuttings were exposed dto hormone/chemicals (auxins, phloroglucinol and salicylic acid (SA) pretreatments for two hours before planting. When pretreated with SA @ 10 and 20 mg L -1, at three months after planting, the hardwood cuttings responded with 30 pere cent survival, whith a shoot length of 2.99 mcm and 3.62cm, respectively. The semihardwood cuttings pretreated with SA@ 20 mg L-1 responded with 23.33 per cent survival with a higher shoot length of 3.72 cm. Both the hardwood and semi hardwood cuttings pretreated with SA 20 mgL-1 had on par values with respect to shoot length. Root cuttings were pretreated with different concentrations of various types of auxins. Root cuttings pretreated with IAA @ 250 mg L -1, after three months of planting responded with 33.33 per cent survival with a shoot length of 5.73 cm. Though root cuttings had slightly higher survival percent and shoot length, hardwood cuttings were selected for the valuation of potting media due to better availability and ease in procurement. The three month old hardwood cuttings pretreated with SA @ mgL-1 were then transplanted to ten different potting media comprising of two basal media viz., soil:coipith compost :cowdung (1:1:1) (B1) and soil : soirpith compost : vermicompost (1:1:1) (B2), and each in combination with biofertilisers @ 5g plant -1 viz., PGPR (Plant Growth Promotng Rhizobacteria) Mix I, Azospirillum, PSB (Phosphorus Solubilising Bacteria ) and AMF (Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi). At fourth month after transplanting, B2 in combination with biofertilisers were found to be significantly superior to B2, B1 and B1 in combination with biofertilisers with respect to morphological parameters. B2 +PGPR Mix I recorded highest shoot length (11.50 cm) and number of leaves (10.50) which was on par with B2+Azospirillum, B2+PSB and B2+AMF; the highest number of branches (1.92) was observed in B2+ Azospiriillum which was on par with the treatments , B2+ PGPR Mix I, B2+PSB and B2+AMF. The fresh and dry weight of shoots were the highest (21.35 g and 4.78 g respectively) in B2 +PGPR Mix I which was on par with B2+ AMF. B2+ AMF recorded highest values (4.77 cm, 0.30 mm, 3.28 g and 0.0092 g, respectively) with respect to root growth parameters viz., root length, root girth , fresh and dry weight of roots. The physiological parameters, leaf area index (1.36) and leaf area duration (34.63 days) were the highest in B2+ PGPR Mix I which was on par with B2 in combination with other biofertilisers. The phytochemical analysis indicated that carbohydrate content (80.9 mg g-1) of plant tissue was the highest in B2+PGPR Mix 1, which was on par with B2+PSB, B2+Azospirrillum and B2+AMF. Chlorophyll content was found to the highest (1.20 mg g-1) in B2+ Azospirillum which was on par with B2+PGPR Mix I. The same treatment recorded the highest soluble protein content (20.31mg g-1) and it was on par with B2 in combination other biofertilisers. The nutrient analysis of plant tissue showed that nitrogen (2.22 percent ) and potassium (2.15 per cent ) content was significantly higher in B2+ Azospirillum. B2+PSB Recorded higher phosphorus content (0.26 per cent) among the treatments. The study indicated that nursery plants in the potting media B2 in combination with biofertilizers gave better performance with respect to morphological parmeters, physiological parameters, phytochemicals and plant nutrients. Among the various potting media tried, B2+AMF recorded significantly higher plant growth potential (0.522) followed by B2 + PGPR Mix I (0.428). In the study, hardwood cuttings were identified as the preferred planting material for the nursery establishment of pachotti. The cuttings could be treated with salicylic acid @ 20 mg L-1 for initial establishment of nursery plants. The preferred potting media for transplanting the established cuttings for raising the nursery plants of pachotti is Soil : Coirpith compost : Vermicompost (1:1:1) +AMF (5g/plant).
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    ThesisItemOpen Access
    Evaluation of garlic (Allium sativum L.) genotypes in the high ranges of Idukki district of Kerala
    (Department of Plantation Crops and Spices, College of Horticulture, Vellanikkara, 2018) Shibana, S N; KAU; Jalaja, S Menon
    Garlic (Allium sativum L.), an important foreign exchange earner, is used as a spice or condiment throughout the country. India ranks second in area and production of garlic in the world. In Kerala, garlic cultivation is confined to Devikulam block of Idukki district and it is cultivated commercially in Kanthalloor and Vattavada panchayats. Singapore, Mettupalayam and Malapoondu are the major local cultivars prevalent in this area. Information on the performance of improved garlic varieties in the high range of Kerala is lacking. Hence, the present study was undertaken with an objective to evaluate the performance of various garlic genotypes for yield and quality in the Kanthalloor panchayat of Idukki district. The experiment was conducted in farmers’ fields of Kanthalloor panchayat during first crop season from May-September 2017. Nine released varieties like Yamuna Safed, Yamuna Safed-2, Yamuna Safed-3, Yamuna Safed-8, Yamuna Safed- 9, Bhima Omkar, Bhima Purple, AAS-2, Ooty-1 and one local cultivar were evaluated for biometric characters and biochemical parameters. In all genotypes, stem colour was yellowish green. Anthocyanin pigmentation at the base of pseudostem was noticed in all genotypes except Yamuna Safed-9, Bhima Omkar and local cultivar. The local cultivar was early in germination (8 days) and also recorded a higher value of Visual Index of Dormancy (80.89%). The field survival per cent at two months after planting was high in Yamuna Safed-9 (97%), Yamuna Safed- 3 (96%) and AAS-2 (96%). At two months after planting, local cultivar recorded highest plant height, leaf width and neck thickness, whereas number of leaves per plant was highest in AAS-2. At the time of harvest Yamuna Safed-3 recorded highest plant height, number of leaves per plant and neck thickness but the leaf width was high in local cultivar. The genotypes AAS-2 and local cultivar had shortest duration of 95 days. White coloured bulbs were observed in Yamuna Safed, Yamuna Safed-8 and Bhima Omkar. In all genotypes bulbs were oval in shape in longitudinal section. The skin colour of clove was cream in general, but it was purple in Yamuna Safed-9 and Bhima Purple and pink in AAS-2. Invariably the clove flesh colour was yellow in all genotypes evaluated. Single clove bulbs were observed in genotypes Yamuna Safed-8, Yamuna Safed-2 and Yamuna Safed (79.16%, 25.17% and 22.26% respectively) which indicate that these genotypes were poor in clove differentiation in the agro ecological situations of Kanthalloor during first crop season. The genotypes local cultivar and Yamuna Safed-3 recorded a high fresh bulb weight (15.66g and 15.31g respectively). The variety AAS-2 recorded highest number of cloves per bulb (16). The number of cloves per bulb in Yamuna Safed-3 (14.47) was on par with AAS-2. The variety Yamuna Safed-3 recorded highest estimated yield per hectare (5.96t) followed by local cultivar and Ooty-1 (4.48t and 4.47t respectively). Fresh bulb weight showed highly significant positive correlation with leaf width, plant girth, plant height, leaf length, equatorial diameter, polar diameter and clove length. The genotypes were grouped into five non-overlapping clusters based on yield and yield attributing characters. The genotypes Yamuna Safed-3 and local cultivar, the high yielders fall in cluster 2 and it has the least distance to cluster 5 which includes Ooty-1. But considering the important yield and quality aspects in trade i.e. yield, fresh bulb weight, clove weight, essential oil content and pungency the local cultivar was found to be the promising genotype over Yamuna Safed-3. But when the genotypes were ranked considering the important yield and quality aspects in trade, the local cultivar was found to be the promising genotype over Yamuna Safed-3.