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Effect of chlorpyrifos on the reproductive system of Metaphire posthuma (Vaillant, 1868) and Eisenia fetida (Savigny, 1826)
(Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 2018) Avneet Kaur; Hundal, S.S.
The present study was field-laboratory integrated approach to evaluate effects of pesticide on earthworms. The agricultural fields of South West (S-W) Punjab (Malout, Bathinda and Muktsar regions) and Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana were surveyed to monitor chlorpyrifos residues and check species and population density of earthworms. The residue level ranged from 0.014-0.044 mg/kg in Malout region, 0.018-0.116 mg/kg in Bathinda region and 0.010-0.056 mg/kg in Muktsar region of Punjab. The Metaphire posthuma was the predominant species found in S-W Punjab and PAU, Ludhiana and Lampito mauritii was also inhabiting these regions. The biochemical, histological, cytological and genotoxicity studies were also performed on former abundant species. The investigation revealed that the biological alterations were more pronounced in Kharif season than Rabi. Higher AchE activity during Rabi season and elevated GST activity during Kharif season was recorded in earthworms .The histological alterations were only observed in earthworms of S-W Punjab. Low differential, total coelomocyte count and higher DNA damage was reported in Kharif. The comparative study showed that PAU, Ludhiana is a zone with good agricultural practices. In laboratory two ecologically different earthworms i.e Metaphire Posthuma (endogeic) and Eisenia fetida (epigeic) were exposed to different doses of chlorpyrifos (2.5, 5.0, 7.5, 10.0 ml/l) in an artificial soil test following OECD guidelines. The significant decrease was observed in body weight, cocoon and hatchling number of both earthworms, at higher doses of chlorpyrifos (7.5 and 10.0 ml/l). The mortality as a result of morphological alterations was observed at higher doses of chlorpyrifos in earthworms. Further, these higher doses led to inhibition of activity of AchE and GST, decrease in total, differential count of coelomocytes and high DNA damage. Histological alterations were also observed in gonads of M. posthuma and E. fetida on exposure to higher doses. The field and laboratory studies revealed that earthworms are excellent bioindicators for assessing soil contamination caused by pesticides. The species specific response was observed, M. posthuma was found to be more sensitive as compared to E. fetida so, can used as standard test species to evaluate pesticidal toxicity.
Open Access
Status of population and assessment of environmental contaminants on egg parameters and breeding biology of House Crow (Corvus splendens) in Malwa region of Punjab
(Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 2017) Manpreet Kaur; Khera, K.S.
Birds are the common inhabitants of the ecosystem and are well known as indicator species of the ecosystem health. Among these birds, the Indian House Crow (Corvus splendens), is the most wide spread subspecies of the corvidae family in India as well as in the world. Present study was undertaken to study the dynamics of house crow population in some pockets of Malwa region of Punjab. The present study on the status of population of House Crow was carried out in the 3 districts of Malwa region of Punjab (Punjab Agricultural University (PAU), Ludhiana and in selected villages of Sangrur and Bathinda), while study on assessment of environmental contaminants on egg parameters and breeding biology was carried out only in the 2 districts of Malwa region of Punjab (PAU, Ludhiana and in selected villages of Sangrur). It was observed that population of House Crow was significantly low at the Sangrur and Bathinda villages as compared to PAU, Ludhiana. In present study, breeding season of House Crow was observed to be from April to September. 99 nests were recorded during two breeding seasons in PAU, Ludhiana and 9 nests were found in two villages of Sangrur. Quantitative analysis of the nests of house crow was also done. Majority of the nests of the House Crow located on 17 different tree species. In the present study two types of nests were observed i.e. Active nests and Non-active nests. In PAU, Ludhiana, out of total 99 nests, 61 nests found to be active and 38 nests were remain in-active on 16 different tree species in both breeding seasons. In villages of Sangrur, all nests were found inactive on the 3 tree species used. Average egg length, breadth, shape index, egg weight, albumen weight, yolk weight, shell weight, albumen percentage, yolk percentage, shell percentage, egg shell thickness, CaCO3, egg volume and specific gravity which indicate hatchability of eggs were determined. In present study high levels of chlorpyriphos and few heavy metals were detected in feather samples collected from villages of Sangrur. Overall it was observed that the population at PAU, Ludhiana was higher as compared to selected villages of Sangrur and Bathinda. Analysis of feathers indicated higher levels of chlorpyriphos and some heavy metals in the feathers collected from villages of Sangrur. As birds are the visible indicators of the health and quality of the ecosystem in which they live, therefore, fixing priorities and developing strategies for their conservation needs further studies for a healthy environment.
Open Access
EFFECTS OF HEN EGG WHITE PROTEINS ON REPRODUCTION AND DEVELOPMENT OF RED FLOUR BEETLE (Tribolium castaneum)
(PAU Ludhiana, 2010) Geetu Choudhary; R.K. Parshad
The red flour beetle, Tribolium castaneum (Herbst) (Coleoptera:Tenebrionidae) is a destructive pest of stored grains and it is renowned for adapting to various insecticides. The hen’s egg white proteins possess unique multifunctional properties including antimicrobial, antiviral, immunomodulatory and anticancer. Therefore, the present study was carried out to determine the insecticidal potential of hen’s egg white proteins to manage red flour beetle population. Protein samples obtained through salt fractionation (PPT-I and PPT-II) including whole egg white (WEW) were lyophilized. Different concentrations (2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 10%) of each of the protein samples were tested separately and simultaneously by adding them to wheat flour and milk powder (75:25 w/w). The results indicated that mortality rate of the adult beetles was dependent on the type of treatment, concentration of protein samples and duration of feeding. WEW, PPT-I and PPT-II treatments delayed the emergence of developmental stages, reduced the fecundity rate, egg volume and reproductive effort of the female beetles. In multiple-choice feeding trials, beetles showed repellency towards the food containing PPT-I and PPT-II proteins. Marked abnormalities were observed in appearance and dimensions of the ovarioles and eggs which indicated that the hen’s egg white proteins caused considerable effect on the process of oogenesis. Scanning electron microscopic studies revealed changes in the structure of epithelial sheath cells of ovarioles probably caused due to resorption of ova in the beetles fed on PPT-II proteins. Higher resolution of the egg surface showed the presence of wrinkles or shrivelled appearance of the chorionic layer in PPT-I and PPT-II treated eggs and these deep folds and wrinkles were more conspicuous in the beetles fed on PPT-II proteins. PPT-II proteins appeared to be most effective among WEW, PPT-I and PPT-II samples in causing mortality and reduction of fecundity in T.castaneum.
Open Access
MUSCLE FATTY ACID PROFILES OF SOME WILD FISH SPECIES AND ENHANCEMENT OF OMEGA-3 FATTY ACIDS THROUGH DIETARY MANIPULATION IN Cyprinus carpio (Linn.)
(PAU Ludhiana, 2012) Jyotika; H.S., Sehgal
The study has been conducted on i) seasonal variations in muscle total lipid content (MTLC), fatty acid profiles and proximate composition of two wild fish species, Puntius conchonius (Hamilton-Buchanan) and P. sarana (Hamilton-Buchanan), to determine their nutritional status and ii) enhancement of omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), considered vital for human health, through dietary manipulation in a cultured carp species, Cyprinus carpio (Linn.). Both the wild species were found to be rich in crude protein, which varied between 15.74% to 18.18% in P. conchonius and 15.15% to 18.04% in P. sarana during different seasons. Based on their MTLC (2.36% to 4.89%), both the species could be categorized as lean or low-fat fishes. However, the MTLC was higher and the moisture, ash and carbohydrate contents of the fishes were comparable with many other freshwater fish species. The fishes had good PUFA content. Omega-3 (n-3) PUFAs were 2.78% in P. sarana and 2.21% in P. conchonius. Total n-6 PUFAs were 4.56% in P. sarana and 4.20% in P .conchonius, and the values of n-3/n-6 ratio were 0.73 and 0.60 in P. sarana and P. conchonius, respectively. Linolenic acid formed 1.64% of the total n-3 PUFAs in P. sarana and 1.02% in P. conchonius. EPA constituted 0.31% in P. conchonius and 0.24% in P. sarana and DHA 0.75% in P. sarana and 0.69% in P.conchonius. Stearic acid was the dominant saturated fatty acid (SFA) forming 28.75% of the total SFAs in P. sarana and 28.10% in P. conchonius. The MTLC and n-3 PUFAs of C. carpio (Linn.), a cultured carp species could be enhanced through dietary manipulation. The MTLC could be increased from 1.44% in fish fed traditional diet with no flaxseed oil to 2.83% in fish fed 30% flaxseed oil diet. Similarly, the total n-3 PUFAs could be enhanced from 10.38% in fishes fed 0% flaxseed oil diet for 90 days to 18.67% in fishes fed 30% flaxseed oil diet for 60 days and 30% fish oil diet for 30 days.
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Diversity of earthworms in sugarcane and wheat crop fields and vermicomposting of crop waste
(Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana, 2016) Panjgotra, Shilpa; Sangha, Gurinder Kaur
Sugarcane and wheat crop fields were selected from Amritsar, Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar and Moga to explore the diversity of earthworms. At all the study sites, population density of earthworms showed their maximum number in the month of July, August in sugarcane fields and in the month of March in wheat crop fields. Seasonal density showed maximum abundance in rainy season> summer season> winter season. Earthworm count per m2 was more in sugarcane fields as compared to wheat fields and among different districts abundance was maximum in Shaheed Bhagat Singh Nagar followed by Amritsar and Moga. Overall five species of earthworms belonging to family Megascolecidae were found and these were Metaphire posthuma, Lampito mauritii, Amynthas morrisi, Amynthas corticis and Metaphire houlleti in sugarcane and wheat fields. Metaphire posthuma and Lampito mauritii were found to be dominating species of Punjab and tested for genetic variability among isolates collected from different locations. Genetic variability was detected among isolates of Metaphire posthuma, whereas variability does not exist among isolates of Lampito mauritii. Out of the tested physico-chemical parameters, soil temperature and moisture were found to be significantly positively correlated with the earthworm population. Nutrient content like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium and organic carbon in earthworm casts were significantly more as compared to surrounding soil. Vermicomposting of Sugarcane trash and wheat straw agro-waste was done by using Eisenia fetida. Maximum significant results were obtained in 1:1 ratio of agrowaste:FYM (Farm Yard Manure) (sugarcane trash:FYM, wheat straw:FYM) as compared to 1:1/2 and control (Only FYM). The nutrient analysis of the vermicomposts showed a general trend of increase in the levels of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and decrease in the levels of pH, EC, organic carbon (%). It was inferred that among the two substrates studied, vermicompost from wheat straw in 1:1 was best for its nutrient value and showed better growth and reproduction, thereby concluding that, Eisenia fetida exhibited a better efficacy in wheat straw substrate (1:1 ratio) as compared to sugarcane trash.
Open Access
Histomorphometric and genotoxic studies in albino rats following sub-chronic exposure to arsenic
(PAU, 2014) Mehta, Madhuri; Hundal, S.S.
The present study was carried out to evaluate the histomorphometric and genotoxic effects of sodium arsenite at low doses on female rats. Forty eight mature female rats were divided into four groups; one group as control and three groups received sodium arsenite at the doses of 10, 30 and 50 μg/L dissolved in distilled water orally for 60 days. Half of the rats from each group were sacrificed after 30 days and the remaining after 60 days of treatment. Oral exposure of sodium arsenite results in disruption of estrous cycle with prolonged diestrous and metestrous phases. A significant decrease (P≤0.01) in the number of corpus lutea along with increased number of atretic follicles has been observed in treated ovaries after 30 and 60 days of treatment. The thickness of uterine myometrium and endometrium decreased significantly (P≤0.05-0.01) in treated rats. Histopathological observations of liver and kidney sections showed presence of pyknotic cells, infiltrations and increased glomerulus chamber spaces. The activities of antioxidant enzymes decreased significantly (P≤0.01) with an increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation, urea and creatinine in treated animals. The concentration of arsenic was high in treated as compared to control rats. Increased liver microsomal degranulation and bone marrow chromosomal aberration (chromatid gaps, fragmentation and breakage) in all the treated groups substantiates carcinogenic and mutagenic effects of sodium arsenite. It may be inferred that exposure to sodium arsenite at low doses disturbs the antioxidant/prooxidant ratio leading to a state of oxidative stress as evidenced through histological, biochemical and genotoxic parameters.
Open Access
Reproductive potential of field rats inhabiting South West region of Punjab
(PAU, 2014) Singh, Parkash; Sangha, G.K.
Mammals including human beings are exposed to thousands of chemicals including pesticides used in agricultural practices, industrial processes and other domestic practices. High level of pesticides residues existing in the environment have been reported to cause adverse effects on reproductive health of animals possible by interfering with the hormonal functions. The present study was designed to examine the possible effects of environmental contaminants on the male and female fertility parameter in Rattus rattus, Tatera indica and Bandicota bengalensis inhabiting South West region of Punjab as compared to rats inhabiting Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) Ludhiana which were taken as control. The weight of vital organs was significantly lower in Bathinda rats as compared to Ludhiana rats. In biochemical studies the content of proteins, phospholipids was less while acid phosphatises (ACP) were significantly more. The total lipids and cholesterol were significantly high while alanine amino transferase and aspartate amino transferase (ALT, AST) were significantly higher in Bathinda district rats as compared to Ludhiana rats. Lower sperm motility and sperm concentration alongwith significantly higher sperm abnormalities were observed in Bathinda rats as compared to Ludhiana rats. In male testosterone levels were low, while estradiol and progesterone levels were also low in female rats of Bathinda district. Pesticide residue of chlorpyrifos was detected in plasma and malathion was detected in liver samples of Bathinda rats. Histopathological evaluations of testis of the Bathinda rats revealed some distorted semniferous tubules and degenerative changes in semniferous tubules with reduced spermatozoa. In female rats there was higher number of atretic follicles in all stages of follicles and the average diameter of all the growing follicles were also less in the ovaries of Bathinda rats at P<0.05. From this study it can be concluded that environmental contaminants in Bathinda district have the potential to exert adverse effects on the male and female reproductive health.
Open Access
Occurrence, prevalence and management of slugs in vegetable crops in relation to edaphic factors
(PAU, 2014) Kaur, Navjot; Singla, Neena
Survey in farmer fields of vegetable crops in five villages of district Barnala revealed no slug infestation, however, in experimental fields of summer and winter vegetable crops grown in three villages viz., Bhadalwad and Sanghera in district Barnala and Dasaunda Singh Wala in district Sangrur revealed the occurrence of one slug species, Filicaulis alte. Slugs were found active from March to mid November after which they might have been in hibernation. Maximum slug density was recorded during the months of August and September in all the three villages. Slugs preferred soil with low bulk density and high porosity, particle density, moisture content, organic matter, phosphorus and potassium. The slugs inflicted two types of damage to vegetable crops viz., consumption of whole seedlings and irregular holes within the leaves and at margins. Spinach, turnip and cauliflower were most affected vegetable crops in the three villages. Slug density and damage to cabbage crop at village Bhadalwad was highest in sandy loam soil and was found decreased with increase in soil compaction (1.3, 1.5 and 1.7 g/cm3). The slug density and damage in soil was found decreased with decrease in quantities of FYM (5, 10 and 20 t/ha) and increase in quantities of urea (50, 100 and 150% of the recommended). Among the three concentrations (half, as per and double the recommended) of five poison baits tested in laboratory feeding tests, recommended dose of indoxacarb and profenophos proved to be very effective against the slugs resulting in 93 and 83% mortality, respectively.
Open Access
Protective effects of wheat germ against the reproductive toxicity of dimethioate onfemale rats
(PAU, 2015) Mokshi; Sangha, G.K.
Dimethoate, a systemic organophosphate pesticide, was used in the present study to investigate toxic effects on blood, liver, kidney, brain and reproductive organs of female albino rats at three sub-chronic dose levels of 1/20 th , 1/40 th and 1/80 th of LD50 for 30 days and the ameliorative potential of 20% wheat germ supplementation as a source of tocopherol was evaluated against the dimethoate treatment. Feed intake and water intake was non significant in all treatment groups. Estrous cyclicity was significantly altered with 1/20 th and 1/40 th of LD 50dimethoate. After 30 days of treatment, blood plasma collected and various organs excised and weighed. Amount of protein, urea, creatinine, enzymes alanine and aspartate aminotransferase (ALT and AST), acid and alkaline phosphatase (ACP and AKP), acetylcholinestrase (AChE) and ATPases and activity levels of different oxidative stress parameters viz: catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione-S-transferase (GST), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were differentially altered in blood, liver, kidney, brain and ovary of dimethoate treated rats. Liver histological observations depicted infiltration, sinusoidal dilations and degenerated cytoplasm at highest dimethoate treatment. The kidney histoarchitecture with dimethoate intoxication also revealed shrunken glomerulus, glomerular atrophy and disturbed tubular epithelium as compared to control. Increased follicular atresia, was observed with the increasing dose levels of dimethoate. The preconceptional exposures of dimethoate in female rats also affected the eproductive performance and developmental parameters in the offsprings. 20% wheat germ upplementation improves the histoarchitecture of liver, kidney and ovary and restored the activity of biomolecules and enzymes in all dimethoate treated rats. In conclusion it can be inferred that dimethoate has the potential to alter the biochemical constituents including OS enzymes in female rats and 20% wheat germ supplementation has protective effect against dimethoate toxicity in female albino rats.

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