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Kerala Agricultural University, Thrissur
The history of agricultural education in Kerala can be traced back to the year 1896 when a scheme was evolved in the erstwhile Travancore State to train a few young men in scientific agriculture at the Demonstration Farm, Karamana, Thiruvananthapuram, presently, the Cropping Systems Research Centre under Kerala Agricultural University. Agriculture was introduced as an optional subject in the middle school classes in the State in 1922 when an Agricultural Middle School was started at Aluva, Ernakulam District. The popularity and usefulness of this school led to the starting of similar institutions at Kottarakkara and Konni in 1928 and 1931 respectively.
Agriculture was later introduced as an optional subject for Intermediate Course in 1953. In 1955, the erstwhile Government of Travancore-Cochin started the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences at Mannuthy, Thrissur for imparting higher education in agricultural and veterinary sciences, respectively. These institutions were brought under the direct administrative control of the Department of Agriculture and the Department of Animal Husbandry, respectively. With the formation of Kerala State in 1956, these two colleges were affiliated to the University of Kerala. The post-graduate programmes leading to M.Sc. (Ag), M.V.Sc. and Ph.D. degrees were started in 1961, 1962 and 1965 respectively.
On the recommendation of the Second National Education Commission (1964-66) headed by Dr. D.S. Kothari, the then Chairman of the University Grants Commission, one Agricultural University in each State was established. The State Agricultural Universities (SAUs) were established in India as an integral part of the National Agricultural Research System to give the much needed impetus to Agriculture Education and Research in the Country. As a result the Kerala Agricultural University (KAU) was established on 24th February 1971 by virtue of the Act 33 of 1971 and started functioning on 1st February 1972. The Kerala Agricultural University is the 15th in the series of the SAUs.
In accordance with the provisions of KAU Act of 1971, the Agricultural College and Research Institute at Vellayani, and the College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy, were brought under the Kerala Agricultural University. In addition, twenty one agricultural and animal husbandry research stations were also transferred to the KAU for taking up research and extension programmes on various crops, animals, birds, etc.
During 2011, Kerala Agricultural University was trifurcated into Kerala Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (KVASU), Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and Kerala Agricultural University (KAU).
Now the University has seven colleges (four Agriculture, one Agricultural Engineering, one Forestry, one Co-operation Banking & Management), six RARSs, seven KVKs, 15 Research Stations and 16 Research and Extension Units under the faculties of Agriculture, Agricultural Engineering and Forestry. In addition, one Academy on Climate Change Adaptation and one Institute of Agricultural Technology offering M.Sc. (Integrated) Climate Change Adaptation and Diploma in Agricultural Sciences respectively are also functioning in Kerala Agricultural University.
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ThesisItem Open Access Management of calcium, magnesium and boron deficiency for enhancing yield and quality in chilli (Capsicum annuum L.)(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture ,Padanakkad, 2022-04-28) Anjitha K.; KAU; Sailaja kumari M SThe investigation entitled ‘Management of calcium, magnesium and boron deficiency for enhancing yield and quality in chilli’ was carried out at Instructional farm, Nileshwar, College of Agriculture Padannakkad, with an objective to develop nutrient management practices for mitigating calcium, magnesium and boron deficiency and to evaluate its effect on growth, yield and quality parameters. The field experiment was carried out during December 2020 to May 2021. The experiment was carried out with chilli variety Anugraha, in randomized block design with ten treatments and three replications. Treatment combinations were T1(KAU POP + lime (based on soil test)), T2 (T1 + 125 kg gypsum per hectare), T3 (T1 + 80 kg magnesium sulphate per hectare), T4 (T1 + 125 kg gypsum per hectare + 80 kg magnesium sulphate per hectare), T5 (T1 + foliar application of borax (0.2%)), T6 (T2 + foliar application of borax (0.2%)), T7 (T3 + foliar application of borax (0.2%)), T8 (T4 + foliar application of borax (0.2%)), T9 (KAU POP + dolomite (based on soil test)) and T10 (T9 + foliar application of borax (0.2%)). Soil application of amendments were done as a single dose and foliar nutrition was given four times in a 20 days interval. Analysis of experimental results showed that various treatments showed significant effect on growth characters, fruit quality parameters as well as nutrient content in both soil and plant, over KAU POP recommendation. Significant positive effect of treatments on plant root characters and total dry matter production was observed whereas plant height and days to 50% flowering were found to be non significant. Among the treatments, maximum tap root length (13.50 cm), root volume (23.23 cm3 ), root shoot ratio (0.16) and total dry matter production (2694.65 kg ha-1 ) were recorded in T8 (KAU POP + lime application based on soil test) +125 kg gypsum per hectare + 80 kg magnesium sulphate per hectare + foliar application of borax (0.2%). Various treatments showed significant influence on yield and yield attributes. Maximum fruit weight (37.16 g) and total fruit yield (4456.79 kg ha-1 ) was also observed in T8 and in case of fruit yield, it was significantly superior to all other treatments. Combined application of gypsum, magnesium sulphate and borax were effective and maximized fruit yield. 94 Soil analysis was carried out at flowering and harvest wherein, the treatments showed significant effect on soil pH, EC, available potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, iron, manganese and zinc content whereas available nitrogen, phosphorus, copper and boron were not influenced by treatments. Addition of calcium and magnesium sources significantly increased available calcium and magnesium content in soil. Among the various treatments, the highest available calcium was recorded in T8 and was on par with T2, T6 and T4 at flowering. Highest available magnesium content was recorded in T9 and T10 at flowering and harvest respectively. Analysis of Index leaves at flowering and total plant analysis at harvest were carried out and it was found that plant nutrient content was significantly influenced by treatments. Significant effect of various treatments on plant nutrients except nitrogen and phosphorus was observed. Foliar application of borax significantly improved boron content in plants. Fruit quality parameters such as capsaicin, oleoresin, ascorbic acid and shelf life and total nutrient content were analysed and results showed significant positive response to treatments. Analysis of nutrient content in fruits showed that primary nutrients mainly, nitrogen and potassium, secondary nutrients and micronutrients in fruits were significantly influenced by various treatments. The treatment, T8 (KAU POP + lime based on soil test) +125 kg gypsum per hectare + 80 kg magnesium sulphate per hectare + foliar application of borax (0.2%)) recorded highest capsaicin (0.352 %), oleoresin (11.00 %), ascorbic acid (96.83 mg 100 g-1 ) and maximum shelf life (13.66 days) in chilli. The results obtained from the experiment revealed the significant influence of soil amendments over KAU POP recommendation and it can be concluded that combined application of gypsum, magnesium sulphate and borax was effective for increasing fruit yield and quality in chilliThesisItem Open Access Controlling seedling height of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) transplants using plant growth regulators(Department of Vegetable Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, 2022-04-28) Anu Latha Robi; KAU; C NarayanankuttyCowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) is an annual leguminous vegetable crop. It is grown throughout india for its tender green pods used as vegetable. Green cowpea seeds are boiled as a fresh vegetable or may be canned or frozen. The beans are nutritious and provide complementary proteins to cereals diets. Seedlings like cowpea, cucurbits having lanky growth growing in polyhouses is an undesirable quality, especially in plugs intended for mechanized planting and long distance transport. Seed treatment with growth retardants is an effective method for controlling seedling height .However limited studies have been conducted in vegetable crops The present study was undertaken with the objectives of controlling seedling height of vegetable cowpea and to assess the field performance of treated seedlings. The experiment was conducted at the Centre for Hi-Tech Horticulture and Precision farming, Vellanikkara KAU, Thrissur during the year 2020-2021 In seedling stage, highest germination was recorded in control treatment on 5th and 10th days after sowing (89%) and (91%) respectively in Vellayani Jyothika. Minimum germination percentage was recorded in Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm on 5th and 10th day after sowing (64.3%) and (66.0%) respectively in cowpea genotype Vellayani Jyothika. Significantly lower germination percentage was recorded in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm on 5th and 10th day after sowing (70.0%) (72%) in the genotype Kashi Kanchan. In both the genotypes there were no significant difference between the treatments on 15th days after sowing. Paclobutrazol treatment took more number of days for emergence of seedling up to the first node compared to control treatment ie Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm (8.13) and (8.00) respectively in both the genotypes. Highest shoot length was recorded in control treatment on 5th, 10th and 15 th days after germination in both the genotypes. Significantly lower shoot length was recorded in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm irrespective of the number of days after germination. Growth retardants in general reduce root growth, shoot weight and root weight of the seedlings. In both the genotypes (Vellayani Jyothika and Kashi Kanchan) significantly lower root length, shoot weight and root weight was obtained in Paclobutrazol treatments compared to non-treated control. Height of seedling up to the first node was directly linked to shoot length. In both the genotypes of the cowpea significantly lower shoot length was recorded in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm (4.09) and (4.03) respectively. Paclobutrazol treated seedlings had dark green leaves when compared to other growth regulator and control treatments on 5th ,10th and 15th days after germination. In both the cowpea genotypes, when compared to other growth retardant and control treatments highest stem girth of the seedlings was recorded in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm on 5th (3.19 mm) 10th (3.45mm) and 15th (3.7mm) in Vellayani Jyothika and on 5th (3.3mm ) 10th (3.4mm) and 15th (3.8mm) in Kashi Kanchan. There were no significant difference between the treatments on 5th (2) and 15th days (7-8) after germination in both the genotypes. The total chlorophyll content and carotenoid content was recorded highest in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol treatments on seedling stage. Minimum auxin content and gibberellic acid contents were observed in Paclobutrazol treatments. In the field experiment, in both the cowpea genotypes, plant growth regulator Ethrel recorded maximum plant height where as in Vellayani Jyothika minimum plant height was recorded in Cycocel@ 50 ppm (112.40 cm) .In Kashi Kanchan lowest plant height was recorded in Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm (33.06 cm) in Kashi Kanchan. In vellayani Jyothika highest internodal length was recorded in Ethrel @100 ppm (3.13 cm) and Ethrel @50 ppm (3.04 cm). Minimum was recorded in Paclobutrazol@ 200 ppm (2.63 cm). In the genotype Kashi Kanchan maximum internodal length was recorded in Ethrel@ 200 ppm (3.34 cm) and minimum was recorded in Cycocel @ 100 ppm (2.53cm). Highest number of primary branches was recorded in treatments receiving Paclobutrazol @ 200 ppm which was on par with Paclobutrazol @ 100 ppm compared to control in Vellayani Jyothika. In Kashi Kanchan there were no significant differences found between the treatments. Growth retardants had significant effect on the viz days to first flowering, days to first harvest and crop duration. Early flowering results in early harvesting of pods. Plant growth retardant Cycocel @ 200 ppm (41day) and Cycocel @ 25 ppm (36.80 days) recorded earliest flowering in the field in both the genotypes. In both the genotypes delayed flowering and maximum crop duration was recorded in Paclobutrazol treatments. Pod length and pod girth are related with pod weight. Ethrel treatment had highest pod length and pod girth compared to control .The higher number of flowers, pod girth and pod length contributed to production of more number of pods which in turn resulted in higher yield per plant. In both the cowpea genotypes, highest number of pods per plant and yield per plant was recorded in Ethrel treatments (Ethrel 100 ppm) in Vellayani Jyothika followed by Paclobutrazol treatment (Paclobutrazol 100 ppm) where as in Kashi Kanchan Paclobutrazol 100 ppm was on par with Ethrel 100 ppm. From the above study it could be concluded that, Paclobutrazol 100 ppm seed treatment was effective in controlling seedling height as well to obtain good yield in vegetable cowpea.ThesisItem Open Access Soil test crop response studies in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) in lateritic soils of Kerala(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture,Vellanikkara, 2022) Ayisha, V V; KAU; Rajalekshmi, KCluster bean, commonly known as guar, is a legume crop cultivated as a vegetable, green manure and forage crop. India is the leading producer of cluster bean in the world and accounts for around 80 per cent of global production. The generalised application of fertilizers by farmers result in under or over fertilization, lowering production and profitability while also polluting the environment. So the emphasis on soil test based balanced fertilizer recommendation has become more pertinent in the current scenario of high fertilizer costs and yield maximisation programmes. Hence, the investigation entitled “Soil test crop response studies in cluster bean (Cyamopsis tetragonoloba L.) in lateritic soils of Kerala” was undertaken. The study was conducted at College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara in lateritic soils (Ultisol) in the STCR field during 2020-2021 with the objective of developing soil test based fertilizer prescription equation for cluster bean using inorganic fertilizers alone and with the combined use of organic manures. A fertility gradient experiment was conducted to create soil fertility gradient in the field by applying graded doses of N, P and K fertilizers and raising fodder maize var. CO1. After the development of fertility gradient, the main STCR experiment was conducted in the same field with the test crop, cluster bean var. Pusa naubahar. The treatment structure consisted of four levels of nitrogen (0, 10, 20 and 40 kg ha-1 ), four levels of phosphorous (0, 30, 60 and 120 kg ha-1 ) and four levels of potassium (0, 40, 80 and 120 kg ha-1 ) along with three levels of FYM (0, 15 and 25 t ha-1 ). The basic parameters such as nutrient requirement (NR) and contributions of nutrients from soil (CS), fertilizer (CF) and FYM (COM) were computed from the field experimental data. The nutrient requirements (NR) for cluster bean were worked out as 0.68, 0.05 and 0.22 kg N, P2O5 and K2O to produce one quintal yield. The contributions from soil (CS) were estimated as 9.84, 2.29 and 1.99 per cent of N, P2O5 and K2O respectively. The contributions from fertilizer (CF) were calculated as 90.90, 3.29 and 10.82 per cent and that from FYM (COM) were 7.17, 1.92 and 2.96 per cent for N, P2O5 and K2O respectively. From the above basic data, fertilizer prescription equation for specific yield targets of cluster bean in the lateritic soils were derived as follows, NPK alone: FN = 0.74*T - 0.11*SN FP2O5 = 1.47*T – 1.59*SP FK2O = 2.05*T- 0.22*SK NPK + FYM (IPNS) FN = 0.74*T - 0.11*SN – 0.08*ON FP2O5 = 1.47*T – 1.59*SP – 1.34*OP FK2O = 2.05*T - 0.22*SK – 0.33*OK Where, FN, FP2O5 and FK2O = Fertilizer N, P2O5 and K2O in kg ha-1 T = Yield target in q ha-1 SN, SP and SK = STV for available N, P and K in kg ha-1 . ON, OP and OK = Amount of N, P and K supplied through FYM in kg ha-1 . The multiple regression model calibrated with yield as dependent variable and soil test results and inorganic fertilizer doses as independent variables had 62.5 per cent predictability. The yield of cluster bean increased with the application of NPK alone and IPNS viz. NPK plus FYM treatment and the magnitude of increase was higher under IPNS over NPK alone. The study is useful to adjust fertilizer doses based on yield target and available resources of organic manure with the farmers. The equations developed for cluster bean should be tested in places with similar agro climate and soil situations for validation.ThesisItem Open Access Gene action and gene expression analysis in yardlong bean(Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis(L.) Verdcourt) for drought tolerance(Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2022) Rahana, S N; KAU; Beena ThomasYard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt) is a highly remunerative legume vegetable of Kerala. Due to climate change and erratic rainfall, in summer season the crop growth and pod production is heavily affected by moisture stress. Development of high yielding varieties of yard long bean with drought tolerance is essential for its sustainable production. In this context, the present study entitled "Gene action and gene expression analysis in yard long bean (Vigna unguiculata ssp. sesquipedalis (L.) Verdcourt) for drought tolerance" was carried out in the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, with an objective to identify drought tolerant genotype from the available germplasm and to understand the nature and magnitude of gene action and gene expression involved in the inheritance of drought tolerance in yard long bean. The study comprised four experiments. First experiment dealt with the seedling stage evaluation of 100-yard-long bean genotypes for drought tolerance in field. The moisture stress was imposed by withholding irrigation and later irrigation was restored in order to ensure the survival of the tolerant lines. The results of the analysis showed significant variations among genotypes. Out of the 100 genotypes screened, 15 drought tolerant genotypes were identified based on their better performance in terms of high RLW, low PWP, more number of days for reaching critical stress level and high recovery percentage. The genotypes identified were G1 (Acc 5), G5 (Acc 1339), G6 (Adoor local), G14 (Anchal local II) G15 (Aranmula local), G24 (Elamadu local), G36 (Kattampally local), G42 (Kollam local), G45 (Kottarakara local), G46 (Kottayam local), G50 (Kulashegarapuram local), 051 (Kulathupuzha local), G60 (Muttathukonam local), G74 (Nilamcl local) and G89 (Pongamoodu local). The fifteen selected genotypes from the first experiment were evaluated for drought tolerance in the second experiment by imposing moisture stress at the reproductive stage. Based on the biometric and physiological evaluations, the top seven genotypes with high yield and drought tolerance A4 (Anchal local II), A5 (Aranmula local), A7 (Kattampally local). All (Kulashegarapuram local), A13 (Muttathukonam local), A14 (Nilamel local), and A15 (Pongamoodu local) were selected as parents for further hybridization in experiment in. In the third experiment, LxT crosses were performed by using seven selected tolerant genotypes as lines with three popular yard long bean varieties as testers to generate twenty one hybrids. The genetic analysis of hybrids and parents were evaluated based on eight morphological and eight physiological parameters. Mean performance, combming ability, gene action and heterosis were estimated. Based on the mean performance and gca effects, L4 (Kulashegarapuram local) and L3 (Kattampally local) are identified as outstanding general combiners and can be exploited as parents for drought tolerance breeding in yard long bean. Three superior crosses, Kattampally local x Vellayani Jyothika (L3 x T3), Nilamel local X Lola (L6 X T2) and Kulashegarapuram local x Lola (L4 x T2) were identified as promising combinations for drought tolerance and yield xmder water stress. In the final experiment quantitative real time PCR was conducted to analyze the gene expression of drought responsive genes in tolerant hybrids and parents. The elevated expression of DREBs and NCEDl genes in tolerant hybrids and genotypes in gene expression analysis reflects the increased drought tolerance ability of those genotypes. The gene expression analysis was in conformity with the field studies. All the hybrids mamfested significant amount of dominance variance for commercial exploitation. Existence of significant amoimt of dominance variance and non-additive gene action suggests that hybridization as the best strategy for improving the drought tolerance character in yard long bean. The identified genotypes can be used for isolation of purelines with enhanced drought tolerance and the transgressive segregants from the identified crosses can be used for the development of drought tolerant high yielding cultivars in the fixture. The work can be continued with the identified genotypes and crosses for the development of climate smart drought tolerant varieties of yard long bean.ThesisItem Open Access Genetic diversity of Dimocarpus longan Lour., in Southern Western Ghats(Department of Forest Biology and Tree Improvement,College of Forestry, Vellanikkara, 2022) Devika, P S; KAU; Manju Elizabeth, PLongan (Dimocarpus longan Lour.), is an important commercially cultivated fruit tree, belonging to the family Sapindaceae. It is commonly known as dragon-eye. In Kerala, it is known by the names chempoovam, mullai etc. It is widely cultivatedin many Asian countries like China, Thailand, and Taiwan etc. Recently many other countries including India, Sri Lanka etc. have started cultivating longan tree as a commercial fruit tree. Longan is used as a traditional medicine in China due to its high medicinal and nutraceutical value. The global demand for longan fruit has hiked rapidly due to its sweet taste and nutritional value. Fruit consist of a white edible juicy aril which is surrounded by a leathery pericarp. The fruit is rich in various bioactive polyphenols, vitamin C, volatile compounds, minerals, amino acids, proteins, fats, carbohydrates etc. Longan leaf, fruit pericarp, seed and pulp were used for extracting various polyphenols. Extracts from various parts of longan have shown pharmaceutical properties like antioxidance, anti-tyrosinase, anti-cancerous, anti-glycated, immunomodulatory activity, antihypertensive etc. Thus the importance of fruit can also be emphasized due to its richness in nutritional value. The longan tree is a subtropical fruit tree native to the southern regions of China and Indo-Burma. D. longan is indigenous to India's Western Ghats, ranging from Konkan to Tinnevelly. Other distributions in India include Eastern Bengal and Western Peninsular regions. In the Western Ghats region of Kerala, longan is a species widely distributed in evergreen forests. There is a small distribution in the semi-evergreen forests of Kerala as well. The diversity of indigenous longan populations in Western Ghats has never been studied before. In this study, morphological and genetic diversity of longan populations from six different locations in the Western Ghats regions of Kerala were selected. Among these six locations, three were located in the north of Palghat gap and three were in the South ii of Palghat gap. Morphological parameters like crown shape, branching pattern, tree height, tree girth, leaf length and leaf width was considered for studying the morphological diversity. Results from morphological traits revealed that the population from Meppadi region from north of Palghat gap stood different from other longan populations. Cluster analysis conducted using UGPMA method based on the morphological traits showed that population from Mankulam was closely related to the Meppadi population. The populations from six locations were divided into two major clusters. ISSR primers were used to investigate the genetic diversity existing among the six populations. 15 ISSR primers screened from total of 19 primers were used to amplify the DNA sample from different longan populations. Average polymorphism rate of 69.51% was observed. Matrix data was obtained and hierarchical dendrogram was produced using UGPMA method in NTsys pc 2.02 and DARwin software which clusters the populations into two major groups. Jaccard’s dissimilarity index was calculated using R software and the values ranged from 0.00 to 0.51. Genetic relation existing between the natural populations of longan in Kerala, cultivated longan cultivars and litchi were identified. Cluster analysis using UGPMA method pooled different populations into four major clusters and study proved that litchi is genetically more related to the cultivated longan variety rather than the wild populations. This is the first report on the molecular characterization of D. longan from Western Ghats regions in India. The results from this research study can provide valuable information to distinguish, classify and identify the origin of longan populations in India and can be applied for future breeding programs.ThesisItem Open Access Exploration on the links between soil carbon storage and root biomass and elucidation of drivers of carbon stabilization(Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2022) Geethu Jacob; KAU; Manorama Thampatti, K CThe study entitled ―Exploration on the links between soil carbon storage and root biomass and elucidation of drivers of carbon stabilization‖ was conducted at the Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Chemistry, College of Agriculture, Vellayani during November 2019 to September 2021 with the objective to study the links between soil carbon storage and root biomass in soils of different agro ecological units and to identify the key drivers of C stabilization and NP fluxes under different management practices. The study area comprised of three Agro ecological units (AEUs) of Southern Kerala viz. Southern and Central Foot Hills (AEU 12), Southern High Hills (AEU 14) and Kumily High Hills (AEU 16). The study was carried out in three parts namely exploration on the links between soil organic C and NP pools with root biomass in soils of different AEUs, assessment of carbon storage under different land use system and identifying the drivers of C stabilization and field experiments to study the effect of management practices on the link between root and shoot biomass C and SOC and NP pools. For the study exploration on the links between soil organic C and NP pools with root biomass in soils of different AEUs, the study area was surveyed and geocoded soil samples from 0-20 cm and 20-60 cm depth were collected using core samplers. The root biomass from the soil samples were separated out and weighed. The soil samples were analyzed for its various physical, chemical and biological properties. For assessment of carbon storage under different land use system and identifying the drivers of C stabilization, the most prominent land use system of each AEU was identified and five samples were collected from each system. The sampling size was one sq.m to a depth of 60 cm. The plants of the same area were uprooted and their shoot and root biomass were recorded. Both the soil and plant samples were collected and analysed for various parameters. The field experiment in split plot design on grain cowpea – fodder maize cropping sequence was laid out with the main plot treatments as m1: conventional tillage, m2: deep tillage (30 cm depth) and m3: no till and sub plot treatments as s1: POP recommendation, s2: soil test based POP, s3: organic nutrient management (TOF-F), s4: POP + AMF, s5: soil test based POP + AMF, s6: TOF-F + AMF and s7: absolute control. After the harvest of grain cowpea, shoot biomass were removed and roots were retained in three replications and in the other three replications total biomass of grain cowpea were added into the soil and left for decomposition. After that fodder maize was raised in the field and the crop and soil samples were collected and analysed for various parameters. The results of the Part I revealed that the physical properties like bulk density (BD) and gravel per cent of all the AEUs showed an increase towards depth while the electrochemical properties showed a decrease. Among the different AEUs, AEU 16 recorded lowest BD (1.22 Mg m-3 ) and gravel per cent (30.53 %) and had a subsoil increase of 12 per cent and 17 per cent for BD and gravel per cent respectively. The different fractions of soil C and N showed a decrease with depth for all AEUs. The soil total organic carbon (TOC-5.94 %) and recalcitrant C (RC-1.64 %) content were highest for AEU 14 with a decrease of 26 per cent and 31 per cent respectively for subsoil. The highest dissolved organic C (DOC-54.63 mg kg -1 ) and labile C (LC- 877.50 mg kg -1 ) content were for AEU 16 with a subsoil decrease of 45 per cent and 27 per cent respectively. AEU 12 recorded lower values for C fractions which may be due to decreased root biomass by 38 per cent and 25 per cent in surface soil and 55 per cent and 70 per cent in subsoil than that of AEU 14 and AEU 16 respectively. The root biomass and soil C fractions were positively and significantly correlated at both sampling depths. The highest correlation coefficients between root biomass and soil C fractions were recorded by DOC (0.976) followed by RC (0.931) and LC (0.975) followed by DOC (0.953) for surface and subsoil respectively. From the regression analysis perfect fit towards linear regression model, expressed as R2 value, was highest for DOC (0.95) and LC (0.94) at sampling depths of 0-20 cm and 20-60 cm respectively. The different fractions of N were highest for AEU 12 and surface soil showed an increase in total nitrogen (TN) by 6 per cent and NH4-N by 20 per cent, NO3 – N by 18 per cent and organic N (ON) by 5 per cent than subsoil. For soil P fractions an increase was observed with depth and AEU 12 recorded highest values for P fractions. Among soil N and P fractions, ON and labile P (LP) were found to be more correlated to root biomass and with higher R2 values at both sampling depths. The MBC (26.89 mg kg -1 ) and DHA (34.94 µg TPF g-1 24 hr-1 ) were highest for AEU 16 and surface soil showed an increase in MBC by 28 per cent and DHA by 30 per cent, than subsoil. For part II, the most prominent land use system of each AEU were identified as rubber plantations for AEU 12 and AEU 14 and cardamom plantations for AEU 16. The rubber plantations of AEU 14 recorded highest C storage (434.0 t ha-1 ) and lowest value was observed for cardamom plantations of AEU 16 (329.9 t ha-1 ). The soil physical properties and electrochemical properties behaved similar to that of Part I. Cardamom plantations of AEU 16 recorded lowest BD (0.97 Mg m-3 ) and gravel content (28 %) while AEU 12 had highest pH (5.61) and lowest EC (0.39 dS m-1 ). Among the different land use systems, rubber plantations of AEU 14 recorded highest values for soil TOC (6.72 %) and DOC (55.16 mg kg-1 ) content while cardamom plantations had highest soil LC (910.91 mg kg-1 ) and surface soil RC (1.92 %) content but subsoil RC content was more for rubber plantations of AEU 14. In rubber plantations the root biomass were correlated to all C fractions and more correlated to RC and TOC and in cardamom plantations root biomass were significantly correlated to TOC (0.98) and DOC (0.95) fractions only. A significant and positive correlation between root lignin and soil C fractions (RC and TOC) was also observed. The different fractions of N and P were highest for cardamom plantations of AEU 16 and surface soil showed an increase in TN by 5 per cent, NH4-N by 14 per cent, NO3– N by 22 per cent and ON by 4 per cent than subsoil and a subsoil increase of TP by 12 per cent, LP by 29 per cent and NLP by 11 per cent were also observed. The shoot biomass were more correlated to soil N and P fractions than root biomass and were more correlated to ON and TN and to TP and NLP among soil N and P fractions respectively. A significant positive correlation between N and P removal and soil NP pools were also obtained. The MBC and DHA were highest for cardamom plantations of AEU 16 and surface soil showed an increase in MBC by 25 per cent and DHA by 23 per cent than subsoil. In the field experiment, among the various nutrient management treatments, soil test based POP + AMF (s5) recorded the highest plant height, shoot biomass and grain yield plant-1 (107.70 g) and TOF-F + AMF (s6) showed highest values for root characteristics and quality parameters for grain cowpea. Similarly for fodder maize grown under both conditions, the treatment soil test based POP + AMF (s5) gave highest shoot biomass, fodder yield and quality parameters while highest root biomass were recorded by the treatment, TOF-F + AMF (s6). Among the tillage levels, the no till treatment (m3) performed best in connection with growth, yield and quality characteristics throughout the cropping period. Tillage and nutrient management had significantly influenced various soil properties. The lowest soil BD and higher WSA per cent and soil pH were reported by the treatment TOF-F + AMF (s6) throughout the cropping sequence. Among tillage levels, deep tillage (m2) remained superior for soil BD and pH and no till treatment (m3) for WSA per cent respectively. The treatment, TOF-F + AMF (s6) remained superior for soil C fractions viz., TOC, LC and RC content, mineralizable N fractions (NH4-N and NO3-N), labile P and MBC content and dehydrogenase activity throughout the cropping sequence. The treatment, soil test based POP +AMF (s5) recorded higher values for NP fractions like TN, ON, TP and non labile P (NLP). Among the tillage levels, the no till treatment (m3) remained superior in connection with soil chemical and biological properties especially towards the end of cropping period. As the cropping sequence advances an improvement in soil physical, chemical and biological properties were observed and this is mainly attributed to the crop residue addition of grain cowpea and more improvement was observed for total residue incorporation than root residue alone addition. The soil C pools were highly linked to root biomass and NP pools to shoot biomass. The root biomass and root lignin were the main drivers of C stabilization. The treatments with AMF remained superior in various soil properties and yield and growth attributes emphasizing the favourable role of AMF in C storage and nutrient cycling in soils. With regard to nutrient management, soil test based POP + AMF recorded the highest yield in cropping sequence while organic nutrition (TOF-F) + AMF contributed more to soil properties indicating the need for further research on nutrient translocation and assimilation under organic nutrition. The no tilled condition with total residue incorporation responded better than root residue alone incorporation, hinting to the fact that more organic matter contributing practices improved the physicochemical and biological conditions of soils favourably.ThesisItem Open Access Mealybugs of vegetable ecosystems and tritrophic interactions of brinjal mealybugs(Department of Agricultural Entomology, College of Agriculture ,Vellayani, 2022) Anitha, N; KAU; Mithra, MohanThe study on “Mealybugs of vegetable ecosystems and tritrophic interactions of brinjal mealybugs” was conducted at College of Agriculture, Vellayani during 2017 to 2020 with the objectives to identify mealybugs and their natural enemy fauna in solanaceous and cucurbitaceous vegetables, to carry out the molecular characterization of mealy bugs in solanaceous and cucurbitaceous vegetables and to find out the tritrophic interactions of mealybugs infesting brinjal. An investigation on mealybug diversity in solanaceous and cucurbitaceous crops of Kerala revealed a total of six mealybug species viz., Coccidohystrix insolita, Ferrisia virgata, Paracoccus marginatus, Phenacoccus solenopsis, Planococcus citri and Pseudococcus jackbeardsleyi. Besides, four mealybugs viz., Crisicoccus hirsutus, Maconellicoccus hirsutus, Planococcus lilacinus and Rastrococcus iceryoides infesting other vegetable crops were also recorded from Kerala. The study also revealed that the population of mealybug, C. insolita collected from different regions of Kerala exhibited significant morphological variation. The molecular characterization studies proved that the population belongs to C. insolita and the variations may be environmental induced. An exploration of the host range of mealybugs infesting solanaceous and cucurbitaceous vegetables in Kerala revealed a total of 113 plants under 73 genera belonging to 31 families, out of which 14 plants were recorded as new host reports. A rich natural enemy fauna on mealybugs belongs to five orders viz., Coleoptera, Lepidoptera, Diptera, Neuroptera and Hymenoptera were documented from Kerala. Twenty species of mealybug predators from five different families were recorded, among which the predominant family was Coccinellidae with 16 species under six genera. Among the various predators collected, Cacoxenus sp. was recorded for the first time as a predator of P. jackbeardsleyi. Eleven hymenopteran parasitoids belonging to five families were documented from mealybugs, of which the majority belongs to the family Encyrtidae. Four new host-parasitoid associations were also recorded for the first 288 time. The study also identified six hyperparasitoids under the family Encyrtidae, of which two species were recorded as new report which includes Cheiloneurus sp. and Prochilonerus sp. associated with the mealybug P. solenopsis. The ants associated with mealybugs in different agroecosystems were also investigated and a total of 14 species of ants belonging to nine genera under three subfamilies were recorded, of which the most dominant subfamily was Formicinae followed by Myrmicinae and Dolichoderinae. The present study also revealed 15 new ant-mealybug associations for the first time. The molecular characterization of eight mealybug species was carried out that complemented the morphological identification of species. A total of eight nucleotide sequences were submitted to NCBI GenBank and accession numbers were generated. The sequences were also submitted to BOLD and illustrative barcodes were generated. The barcodes of C. insolita, C. hirsutus and P. jackbeardsleyi were generated for the first time. The diversity of endosymbionts of the mealybug C. insolita was carried out for the first time. The study revealed a total of 15 phyla of endosymbionts on C. insolita, of which Proteobacteria was the predominant one. An experiment was conducted at Instructional Farm, Vellayani to identify the tritrophic interaction in brinjal, C. insolita and its natural enemies. The study revealed that out of the ten brinjal cultivars evaluated, the lowest mean population of mealybugs was observed in Pusa Uttam whereas the hybrid cultivar, Udit recorded the highest number of mealybugs. The lowest mean per cent leaf infestation was recorded in Pusa Purple Long which was statistically on par with Pusa Uttam whereas the hybrid cultivar, Udit was severely damaged by the mealybugs. Among the tested cultivars, Pusa Purple Long was recorded under the group resistant whereas Udit and Haritha were included under the highly susceptible group based on the mean per cent leaf infestation caused by C. insolita. The cultivar Haritha attracted the highest number of predators whereas the maximum mean population of spiders were observed in Pusa Purple Long. 289 The correlation analysis on the mean population of mealy bugs with biophysical parameters revealed that trichome density, length width ratio of leaf and number of branches exhibited a significant positive correlation with mean population of mealybugs. Correlation studies on the mean population of natural enemies with biophysical parameters revealed that plant height exhibited a significant negative correlation whereas leaf thickness and number of branches revealed a non-significant negative correlation with the mean population of natural enemies. Among the biochemical parameters of brinjal cultivars, total phenol content exhibited a significant negative correlation with the mean population of mealybugs whereas total chlorophyll content showed a significant positive correlation. The correlation between biochemical parameters of brinjal cultivars with the mean population of natural enemies revealed that total phenol and carotenoid content exhibited a non-significant negative correlation whereas total protein content, reducing sugar and total chlorophyll content showed a nonsignificant positive correlation. The info-chemical mediated interactions in brinjal cultivars, mealybug and its natural enemies were studied using a multi-armed olfactometer and Y-shaped olfactometer assay. The results revealed that the cultivar Udit attracted the highest number of natural enemy Chrysoperla zastrowii sillemi while the cultivar Pusa Uttam attracted the lowest number. The variation in preference shown by the natural enemies may be related to the difference in volatile compounds emanating from the host cultivar. The GC-MS analysis of the synomonal compounds of the cultivar, Udit revealed a total of eleven compounds whereas the cultivar Pusa Uttam was recorded with a total of five compounds. The Y shaped olfactometer studies revealed that C. zastrowi sillemi adults showed more preference towards the synomonal compounds of mealybug infested plants than that of healthy plant synomonal extracts. On comparing the volatile profile of synomones of mealybug infested and healthy plants revealed that the synomonal extracts of the mealybug infested cultivar Udit comprised of 11 compounds whereas healthy plant synomonal extracts contained nine compounds. 290 The relative response of C. zastrowi sillemi towards the kairomonal compounds of C. insolita was evaluated in a Y tube olfactometer and the results revealed that the highest mean number of adult lacewings were attracted to the kairomonal compounds of mealybug compared to control. The kairomonal extracts of the mealybug comprised of seven compounds and the composition of these hydrocarbons may determine the selectivity of natural enemies towards the preferred host. The present study recorded a total of six mealybug species infesting solanaceous and cucurbitaceous vegetables and its host range, natural enemies and associated ants in different agro ecological regions of Kerala. The molecular characterization studies supported the morphological taxonomy and the sequences were submitted to NCBI Genbank and BOLD. The study also elucidated the interactions mediated by plant traits and info-chemicals in brinjal-mealybugnatural enemy tritrophic systems. The study recorded Pusa Purple Long as resistant cultivar and Udit and Haritha as highly susceptible cultivar to C. insolita. The plant traits viz., trichome density, length width ratio of leaf, number of branches, total phenol content and total chlorophyll content exhibited significant correlation with mean population of mealybugs whereas plant height exhibited significant correlation with mean population of natural enemies. The study on info-chemical mediated tritrophic interactions revealed that the concentration and composition of volatile compounds determine the differential selectivity of natural enemies. The volatile compounds identified in this study can also be used as a cue in moderating the behavior of natural enemies in the ecosystems. So a thorough knowledge on the tritrophic relations in the ecosystem will aid in manipulating these interactions to devise a better pest management strategy.ThesisItem Open Access Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) as a potential source of bioactive compounds(Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, 2022) Viresh; KAU; Mini, CAn investigation on “Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam.) as a potential source of bioactive compounds” was carried out at Department of Post Harvest Technology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani from 2017-2020 with the objectives to standardize the extraction procedure for maximizing the antioxidant, anti-cancerous and anti-hyperglycemic properties of fruit wastes from varikka and koozha jackfruit types, phytochemical profiling, encapsulation and commercial exploitation of encapsulated extracts for fortification of fruit juice beverages. Experiments were carried out in four parts. Standardization of extraction procedure was carried out in the first part by evaluating the extracts for antioxidant, anti-hyperglycemic and anti-cancerous properties. Both varikka and koozha types were harvested at optimum maturity and were utilized at ripe stage independently. Except bulb, seed and peel without horny portion, all other parts were dried in cabinet (D1) and freeze (D2) driers, pulverized to fine powders and extracts were prepared using solvents viz., methanol at 90 (S1), 80 (S2), 50% (S3) and ethanol at 60 (S4), 80 % (S5) with solid to solvent ratios of 1:30 (R1), 1:40 (R2) and 1:50 (R3). Extract of freeze dried varikka samples using 60 per cent ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3) had highest Total flavonoid content (TFC) (15.66 mg QE 100g-1 ), Total phenolic content (TPC) (156.10 mg GAE 100g), DPPH scavenging activity (69.29 per cent inhibition) and α-glucosidase inhibition activity (90.24 per cent). The same extract, D2S4R3 from koozha also exhibited highest TFC (15.88 mg QE 100 g -1 ), TPC (164.63 mg GAE 100g), DPPH scavenging activity (68.64 per cent inhibition) and α-glucosidase inhibition activity (92.28 per cent). Freeze dried varikka samples extracted using 90 per cent methanol at 1:50 solid solvent ratio (D2S1R3) recorded the highest (45.88 mg 100g-1 ) ascorbic acid content and freeze dried koozha samples extracted using 90% methanol at 1:40 solid solvent ratio (D2S1R2) had the highest ascorbic acid content of 47.37 mg 100g-1 . 310 Based on the efficiency and economics, extraction of freeze dried samples using 60% ethanol at 1:40 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R2), similar samples using 60% ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3 ) and cabinet dried samples with 60% ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D1S4R3) were selected as three superior extraction methods . The MTT system which is a simple, reproducible and accurate means of measuring the activity of living cells via mitochondrial dehydrogenases was utilized to assess the anti-cancerous properties of the selected three extracts viz., D2S4R2, D2S4R3 and D1S4R3 on HeLa cell lines with doxorubicin as control. Freeze dried varikka and koozha samples extracted in 60 percent ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3) had the lowest IC50 value of 129.30 and 157.60 µg mL-1 respectively whereas the IC50 value for doxorubicin (positive control) was18.85 µg mL-1 . When the three superior extracts were subjected to phytochemical profiling in the second part of the experiment using LCMS/MS (Waters UPLC H class system fitted with TQD MS/MS system) for sugars, organic acids, phenolic acids and flavonoids, they were significantly influenced by extraction methods and jack fruit types. Fifteen sugars, ten organic acids, eighteen phenolic acids and fifteen flavonoids were fractionated and identified from the extracts. Extract of freeze dried sample using 60% ethanol in 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3) had highest sugars, organic acids, phenolic acids and flavonoid content. The major sugars identified were fructose, glucose, mannose, sucrose and sorbitol and; organic acids were citric acid, malic acid, shikimic acid, succinic and hydroxycitric acid; phenolic acids were ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, caffeic acid, benzoic acid, o - coumaric acid; myricetin, catechin, naringenin, quercetin and epicatechin were the major flavonoids. The three superior extracts selected were encapsulated independently by spray and freeze drying in the third part of the study. Two maltodextrin (MD) levels (10 and 20 dextrose equivalence, DE), three carrier to extract ratio (1:10, 1:15 and 1:20), two inlet- outlet temperature of spray drier (180 - 80º C inlet - 311 outlet and 190 - 90º C inlet - outlet) were the process variables for spray encapsulation, whereas for freeze encapsulation, maltodextrin (MD) levels and carrier ratio were selected as process variables. The extract D2S4R3 from varikka and koozha, spray encapsulated using MD 20 DE at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio (Cr3) at inlet and outlet temperature of 180 and 80º C (T1) recorded highest TPC of 115.47 and 117.92 mg GAE 100 g-1 respectively. Varikka and koozha extracts spray encapsulated using MD 20 DE at 1:10 carrier to extract ratio at 190 - 90ºC inlet - outlet temperature (C2Cr1T2) produced encapsulate with highest per cent recovery (83.77 and 82.09 % respectively). Lowest moisture content of 2.46 and 2.55 per cent were recorded by the extracts spray encapsulated using 10 DE MD at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio at inlet - outlet temperature of 190 - 90º C (C1Cr3T2) from varikka and koozha respectively. Based on the superior physico-chemical properties, spray encapsulate of freeze dried varikka and koozha extracts prepared using 60 per cent ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3), using 20 DE maltodextrin at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio with 180 - 80°C inlet - outlet temperature (C2T1Cr3), was selected for Part 4 of the experiment. D2S4R3 extract from varikka and koozha, when freeze encapsulated with MD 20 DE at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio had highest TFC of 11.62 and 11.75 mg QE 100 g-1 respectively. Koozha extract, freeze encapsulated with MD 20 DE at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio had highest TPC of 134.38 mg GAE 100 g-1 DPPH scavenging activity of varikka and koozha extracts were highest when freeze encapsulated with MD 20 DE at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio (per cent inhibition of 71.66 and 77.48 respectively). Ascorbic acid content and per cent recovery of encapsulates were not influenced by levels of MD or carrier to extract ratio. The extracts freeze encapsulated with MD 10 DE at 1:10 carrier to extract ratio had lowest moisture content of 2.22 and 2.51% respectively. Based on the superior physico-chemical properties, freeze encapsulate of the freeze dried varikka and koozha extract prepared with 60 per cent ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio (D2S4R3), using 20 DE maltodextrin at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio, was selected for part 4 of the experiment. 312 The encapsulated extracts were utilized @ 0.01 to 0.1 per cent for development of fortified mango RTS beverages as per FSSAI standards and compared with commercial fortified beverage in the fourth part of study. Mango RTS beverage enriched with the freeze encapsulate of the extracts @ 0.05 per cent was found to be superior with respect to Total Soluble Solids, total phenolic content, antioxidant activity and total sugar content and these were on par with the beverage enriched with spray encapsulates @ 0.05 per cent and commercial fortified beverages. The highest TPC of 41.05 and 41.12 mg GAE 100 ml-1 were recorded in mango RTS beverage enriched with 0.05 per cent freeze encapsulate of varikka and koozha respectively which were found to be on par with the mango RTS beverage enriched with 0.05 per cent spray encapsulate. The highest scavenging activity (76.29 per cent inhibition) was noticed in RTS beverage enriched with 0.05 per cent freeze encapsulate, followed by the beverage mixed with 0.05 per cent spray encapsulate (73.21%). The lowest scavenging activity (55.19 per cent inhibition) was observed in control sample. From the study, it was proved that the extracts prepared from combined inedible parts of both varikka and koozha jackfruit types are potential source for bioactive compounds. Extraction of freeze dried varikka and koozha types using 60 per cent ethanol at 1:50 solid to solvent ratio was standardized as the best extraction method for retention of phytochemicals, antioxidant activity, antihyperglycemic and anti-cancerous properties. Phytochemical profiling of the superior extracts revealed the presence of 15 sugars, 10 organic acids, 18 phenolic acids and 15 flavonoids. Extracts from varikka and koozha spray encapsulated using 20 DE maltodextrin at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio with 180 - 80°C inlet - outlet temperature and freeze encapsulated by using 20 DE maltodextrin at 1:20 carrier to extract ratio retained maximum phytochemicals and antioxidant properties. These spray and freeze encapsulates could be utilized for fortifying mango RTS beverage @ 50 mg 100 ml-1 without affecting the sensory parameters with an enhanced antioxidant activity of 13-16% compared to commercial fortified mango RTS beverage.ThesisItem Open Access Development and quality evaluation of a jackfruit based nutri flour(Department of Community Science, College of Agriculture, Vellanikkara, 2022) Soumya, P S; KAU; Suma, DivakarThe study entitled “Development and quality evaluation of a jackfruit based nutri flour” was carried out at the Department of Community Science, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, during the period 2018-2021. The main objectives of the study were to formulate and standardize a jackfruit based nutri flour comprised of all the edible parts of the fruit and to evaluate its qualities and invitro therapeutic efficacy. Jackfruit cv. Koozha and varikka based nutri flour was developed on the basis of glycemic index of the various parts of the fruit. Raw jack fruits (12 weeks maturity) were selected. Weight of bulbs, perigones, seeds, rind, core and testa were recorded separately to get the final yield, wet and dry weight, moisture percentage, processing loss and dry matter percentage of the product. The order of glycemic index of jackfruit parts were observed as KJRF˃ KJTF ˃VJTF ˃VJRF ˃ KJPF ˃ VJPF ˃KJCF ˃VJCF ˃ KJBF ˃KJSF ˃ VJBF ˃VJSF. The major flour was constituted with greater percentage of fruit parts with low glycaemic index (50 – 60 %) and 40 % was formed by other components in different proportions. Ten formulations of nutri flour and control were evaluated for their sensory qualities. For these three popular breakfast dishes like “puttu”, “ada” and “oratti” were developed. On the basis of analysis of mean scores of sensory parametersF9 was selected as the best combination. Among the three products based on overall acceptability scores ‘oratti’ was found to be more acceptable. Analysis of functional quality revealed that nutri flour had lower swelling power (7.65g), solubility (1.48%), water absorption capacity (4.36%) and bulk density (1.04g/ml) compared to jackfruit bulb flours. The proximate composition of carbohydrate (31.59 g/100g), protein (7.03g/100g), dietary fiber (13.58 g/100g) were significantly high in nutri flour compared with koozha and varikka bulb flours. The moisture content of nutri flour was lower (0.96%), than koozha jackfruit bulb flour and varikka jackfruit bulb flour (1.28% and 1.39%) respectively. The mineral content such as, total minerals (0.98g), calcium (114.32mg), phosphorus (47.92mg), sodium (10.21mg), potassium (418.10mg), iron (1.67mg), manganese (1.59mg), copper (0.457mg) and zinc (0.923mg) content were higher in nutri flour in comparison to koozha and varikka jackfruit bulb flours. The nutraceutical components like phenol (3.03mg) phytic acid (166.77mg), tannin (19.45mg), β carotene (65.98 μg) and antioxidant content (35.85 μg) was significantly higher in nutri flour compare to koozha and varikka jack bulb flours. The developed jackfruit nutri flour formulation (F9) was packed in metallised laminated pouches and kept for storage studies under ambient conditions for a period of six months storage. During the storage period moisture content, microbial profile and organoleptic qualities were found to be acceptable. To reduce the level of oligosaccharides and to increase the starch digestibility the flour was fermented with Saccharomyces cerevisiae @ 5g/kg for 8hrs. In HPLC analysis, at a retention time of 6.93 minutes standard stachyose, untreated and treated nutri flour. Nutri flour treated with Saccharomyces cerevisiae @ 8 hrs was found to be low in oligosaccharides compared to control. In vitro starch digestibility was significantly high in yeast treated nutri flour (82.81%) when compared to untreated nutri flour (54.84%). Anti-diabetic activity of nutri flour was investigated through α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibitory activity, by using different solvents. A maximum inhibitory activity was observed in petroleum ether extracted of nutri flour at a concentration of 100 μg/mL in α -amylase (47.17%) and α -Glucosidase (63.93%) enzymes. Hypolipidemic activity of nutri flour showed, highest inhibition percentage with petroleum ether (78.06%) and lowest with distilled water (39.53%). Hepato protective effect of nutri flour was higher in cells treated at 50% concentration. From the above study, it can be concluded that jackfruit based nutri mix has hypoglycemic, hypolipidemic as well as hepatoprotective properties. The nutri mix is formulated from all edible parts of jackfruit, which adds on to the therapeutic value of the product. The entire fruit utilization answers the answers the problem of environmental contamination with these underutilized fruit parts.
