International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 20 the laboratory exhibited values following the conductivity values of other synthetic polymer–salt complexes. The conductivity of the order of 10-4 Scm-1 was observed for the Sodium salt complex and the TSP biopolymer film. By increasing temperature, the conductivity of the films has also enhanced. The activation energy and dielectric values were obtained for the films. The measured conductivity value was complementary to the results from XRD and FTIR. Therefore, the usage of biopolymers for storage devices is a promising field of study for the future. Apart from adding salt, a plasticizer, ionic liquid or a nanofiller added to the polymer–salt complex shall further enhance conductivity. Ngai et al. have reported such possibility and the results were seen in the work of Sampathkumar et al. The future scope of the work aims to enhance the conductivity along the same lines, with the addition of suitable plasticizers, ionic liquids or nano-fillers. Research studies also show the possibility of the application of biopolymers in the medical field, Wastewater Treatment, Supercapacitors, Food Packaging Industry etc. KEYWORDS: Biodegradable, Storage devices, Biopolymer, Impedance, Sustainable. 1, 2 Sri Sathya Sai University for Human Excellence, Karnataka, INDIA. 3 Department of Engineering Physics, KLEF, Vaddeswaram, Andhra Pradesh, INDIA. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India TOMORROW’S CHALLENGES
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 22 EFFECT OF EPPAWALA ROCK PHOSPHATE (ERP) AND TRIPLE SUPER PHOSPHATE (TSP) ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF RICE (Oryza sativa L.) M.S.N. Banu1 , S. Anula2* , T. Geretharan3 and S. Srikrishnah4 ABSTRACT Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is the staple food for nearly half of the world population. It is mainly grown in the humid, sub-humid and sub-tropics. Sri Lanka is an agricultural nation whose paddy farming depends on imported fertilizers. The national economy of the nation is severely hampered by the importation of fertilizers, particularly Triple Super Phosphate (TSP). Thus, making the most of the locally accessible Eppawala Phosphate Deposit (EPD) will result in huge foreign exchange savings. Eppawala phosphate provides the essential phosphorous nutrients and has some potential agronomic and environmental advantages. However, limited literature is available on the effect of Eppawala phosphate on rice production in Sri Lanka. The study looked into how Eppawala Rock Phosphate (ERP) and Triple Super Phosphate (TSP) affected rice growth and yield. A pot experiment was carried out in the Crop farm of Eastern University, Sri Lanka, from August to November 2022. A completely randomized design was used for the experiment, which included four treatments and five replicates. The effects of the treatments are T1-control, T2- Triple Super Phosphate (55 kg per ha), T3-Eppawala Rock Phosphate (55 kg per ha), and T4- Double Eppawala Rock Phosphate (110 kg per ha). Every management practices were followed consistently. Parameters such as total dry weight, shoot phosphorous content, phosphorus uptake rate, and grain yield were collected. Mini Tab 17 version software was used for statistical analysis of the collected data, and Turkey's test was used to determine the mean
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 23 comparison within treatments at α = 0.05. The experiment revealed that all the parameters were significantly (p<0.05) influenced by different inorganic phosphorous fertilizer applications. A double amount of Eppawala rock phosphate (110 kg per ha) increased growth and yield in comparison to the control. The results proved that T4-double amount of Eppawala rock phosphate (110 kg per ha) significantly (p< 0.05) increased the total dry weight (10.42g), shoot phosphorous content (126367 μg), phosphorous uptake rate (344.4 μg/g/day), and grain yield (15.96 g) in comparison with control. Therefore, the double amount of Eppawala rock phosphate application increased the yield compared with TSP, single-amount Eppawala rock phosphate, and control. So a double amount of Eppawala rock phosphate (110 kg per ha) could be recommended as an alternative substitute for the TSP fertilizer in the cultivation of paddy in order to increase the growth and yield, which is economically friendly to Sri Lankan paddy cultivation. KEYWORDS: Eppawala Phosphate Deposit, Shoot phosphorous content, Phosphorous Uptake Rate. 1,2,3,4 Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 24 DETERMINANTS OF AWARENESS LEVEL OF PESTICIDE USAGE AMONG PADDY FARMERS IN THAMANKADUWA DS DIVISION, POLONNARUWA DISTRICT R.M.Y. Ritigahapola1 , G. Thivahary2 and G. Divyapratha3,* ABSTRACT With the advent of green revolution technologies, pesticides are essential to growing crops. On the other hand, indiscriminate pesticide usage harms human health and has long-term negative consequences on the ecosystem. Paddy farming is a farming method that uses many fertilizers and pesticides to prevent the rapid spread of pests and diseases. The study was conducted to identify the determining factors of the paddy farmers' awareness level of pesticide usage in Thamankaduwa DS division, Polonnaruwa District. The study was conducted mainly based on primary data from a sample survey in 12 GN divisions. Primary data for the study were collected from randomly selected 100 farmers from each GN division in the Thamankaduwa DS division. The relevant secondary data were gathered from various sources. Data were analyzed through the SPSS (Statistical Package for Social Sciences) statistical software package using descriptive statistics and correlation analysis. The findings revealed that the age of the respondents varied between 40 and 73 years, and most of the farmers had 25 years of farming experience in paddy cultivation. The average monthly income of the respondent was Rs. 22, 444 per month, and the average income from paddy cultivation was Rs. 100,183 per acre. 48% of farmers were educated up to the GCE ordinary level, and around 32% had been educated up to the GCE advanced level. 58% of farmers have a low level of awareness of using pesticides. 60% of the farmers had an idea about the hazardous level of the pesticide, and the rest (40%) did not know about hazardous levels. According
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 25 to the correlation analysis, education level and total extent showed a negative and significant relationship at 0.05 level of probability, using safety measures in pesticide handling showed a negative and significant correlation at 0.01 level of probability and respondent or a family member had any chronic diseases showed positive and significant correlation at 0.05 level of probability with the awareness level of pesticide usage. As the farmers have a very low level of awareness, it is most important to conduct vital awareness programs to improve farmers’ awareness of pesticide usage. KEYWORDS: Ecosystem, Hazardous level, Organic fertilizer, Paddy farming, Pests. 1,2,3 Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 26 THE IMPACTS OF TEMPERATURE VARIATIONS ON THE MORTALITY RATE AND F1 GENERATION OF Tribolium castaneum P.A. Shiromiya1,*, R. Thibisha2 , S. Keerthika3 , S. Karunakaran4 and R.F. Niranjana5 ABSTRACT The red flour beetle (Tribolium castaneum), a serious pest of stored products which cause deleterious effects during post-harvest season. In the concern of the harmful effects of synthetic chemicals, temperature and relative humidity control of the environment will be the appropriate alternative strategy to control storage pest. By this way, the current study was conducted to test the survival rate of T. castaneum on different raising temperature in order to find out the upper threshold temperature for T. castaneum on rice grains and wheat flour. The study was initiated with the mass culture of T. castaneum at the laboratory of Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. Newly emerged T. castaneum beetles were selected from the mass culture and introduced to wheat flour and rice grains in order to assess their resistance to temperature changes in an environment with constant 70% relative humidity to find out their upper threshold limit. Experimental units were arranged in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with ten treatments and three replicates. Each experimental unit consists hundred grams of wheat flour, rice grain separately and five pairs of mixed sex T. castaneum beetles in 100 ml capacity sterilized beaker covered by muslin cloth. The every beakers were arranged set by set in separate trays consist ten treatments for two factors that different level of temperature as one factor and two level of different host were another factor. The raising temperatures at constant 70% RH were attained by insect growth chamber. Every week following the first week of treatment, the percentage of adult
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 27 beetles that survived was recorded. The weevils that have survived and died among those that were introduced are subtracted to determine the emergence percentage of new progenies. At the end of the experiment, the weight reduction percentage of wheat flour and rice grains was calculated. Treatment effects were determined by Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and mean separation values were compared by using Duncan's Multiple Range Test (DMRT) at 5% significant level by using SAS software. Statistical analysis showed significant difference among treatments at p-value less than 0.05. It leads to believe that T. castaneum could have an upper threshold temperature of 46°C in rice grains and wheat flour where zero percentage of survival was obtained at this point. However, beetles in wheat flour seems to be more sensitive to temperature changes than in rice grains. Further, there is a consistent increase in emergence percentages of new progenies with increasing temperature, reaching the highest at 40°C and then decreasing at 45°C and 46°C also among the rice and wheat flour treatments, 46°C results in zero weight loss percentage it is obvious that there was 0% survival attained in 6th week with zero to negligible new emergence. Despite this investigation, it was found that the upper threshold level temperature of T. castaneum in wheat flour and rice grains is 46°C at 70% RH. KEYWORDS: Rice grains, Threshold, Wheat flour. 1,2,3,4,5 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 28 ASSESSING THE MEDIAN LETHAL DOSE OF THE POWDERY Acorus calamus PESTICIDE AGAINST Callosobruchus maculatus S. Keerthika1,*, R. Thibisha2 , P.A. Shiromiya3 and R.F. Niranjana4 ABSTRACT Legumes are the valuable source of protein, particularly for vegans or people who do not consume enough protein from their regular diet. A constantly growing population has a higher requirement for legume seeds. Subsequently, it's essential to keep pests away from stored grains. The cowpea weevil (Callosobruchus maculatus F.) is one of the most destructive pest for stored grains which result in around 90% of losses throughout the storage period. The infestations cause grains to lose their interior quality and are eventually denied by the consumers. The aim of the current study was to determine precise median lethal dose (LD50) value of Acorus calamus powdery pesticide in order to efficiently optimize pesticide usage against C. maculatus. The A. calamus rhizome was employed to formulate the powdery insecticide as it confirmed efficacy via previous studies. Each seed slot with 100 g of cowpea seeds treated separately with various doses of pesticides, like 1 g, 2 g, 3 g, 4 g and 5 g along with untreated cowpea seeds were arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of six treatments and four replications. The experimental units were kept in a laboratory (30±5 °C and 75± 5% RH) for 24 hours in order to take the mortality observations. Data were analyzed using probit analysis in SPSS version 26. The findings revealed that the A. calamus powdery insecticide had the LD 50 value of 34.252 g/kg of cowpea grains for the control of C. maculatus at 30±5 °C and 75± 5% RH. KEYWORDS: Cowpea weevil, LD50 value, Probit analysis, Rhizome. 1,2,3,4 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 29 EVALUATION OF DIFFERENT NUTRIENT MEDIA FOR CULTIVATION OF CARROT DRY ROT FUNGUS (Fusarium sp.) AND SCREENING OF FUNGICIDES AGAINST THE PATHOGEN (Fusarium sp.) UNDER in vitro CONDITION M.W.T.M. Senadeera1 , K. Prasannath2 and R. Thibisha3,* ABSTRACT Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) medium is typically used for culturing fungi, including carrot dry rot fungus (Fusarium sp.) that severely destroys stored carrots. Since PDA medium is expensive, it is vital to find other locally available alternative natural resources in order to prepare an efficient nutrient medium as a substitute. Also, it is necessary to find out the effective fungicide to control the Fusarium sp. The current study evaluated different nutrient media for the culturing of the Fusarium sp. that causes carrot dry rot, with the aim of finding out the most effective low-cost media for in vitro studies and screening different fungicides against Fusarium sp. under in vitro conditions. The experiment was adopted in a completely randomized design with five treatments and four replicates. Different nutrient media, such as sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas) dextrose agar media (SDA), cassava (Manihot esculenta) dextrose agar media (CDA), taro (Colocasia esculenta) dextrose agar media (TDA), and king yam (Dioscorea alata) dextrose agar media (KDA), with standard PDA as the control, were investigated on the mycelial growth of Fusarium sp. in the first screening. The results revealed that SDA media was the most effective dextrose agar media for culturing Fusarium sp., where the highest mycelial growth was exhibited. In the second experiment, different fungicides were applied to the SDA media in order to assess their efficacy against Fusarium sp. Mancozeb 80% WP (0.2 g/100 ml), captan 80% WG (0.125 g/100 ml), thiram 80% WP (0.125 g/100
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 30 ml), and homai (thiophanate-methyl 50% + thiram 30% - 0.1 g/100 ml) fungicides were used as the treatments in the second experiment, with SDA without fungicide as the control. The findings showed that mycelial growth was completely inhibited by mancozeb, thiram, and captan fungicides. Therefore, it was concluded that the fungicides mancozeb, thiram, and captan are effective in the growth inhibition of Fusarium sp. under in vitro conditions. KEYWORDS: Incubation, Mycelial growth, Potato dextrose agar, Sweet potato. 1,2,3 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 31 WASTE DISPOSAL METHODS OF CATTLE FARM IN BATTICALOA DISTRICT: A STUDY AT CHENKALADY AND ERAVUR VETERINARY DIVISION S. Thirumaran1 *, M.F. Vahaful Nisath2 , R. Yathusha1 , R. Krishnananthy3 and R. Thivyatharsan1 ABSTRACT Cattle farming is integral to Sri Lanka's agricultural economy, but the management of associated waste poses a complex challenge with environmental, economic, and social dimensions. In developing countries, conventional practices like burying and burning persist, necessitating sustainable and context-specific solutions. This study focused on the veterinary divisions of Chenkalady and Eravur in Batticaloa district, surveying 25 randomly selected cattle farmers using a structured questionnaire. Demographically, the majority of cattle farm holders were males aged 36 to 50, with diverse income levels and religious affiliations, predominantly Hindu. Native breeds dominated the farms (80%), serving dual purposes of income and food production. Small farms with semiintensive rearing systems were prevalent, aligning with regional trends. Waste on cattle farms encompassed cow dung, urine, bedding and feed waste, wastewater, and miscellaneous waste. Notably, urine and dung were ubiquitous, with urine considered the most significant waste. Disposal methods varied, with direct application to crops being most common (52%). Other methods included drainage, composting, burying, selling, and Azolla production. Composting, involving the use of dung, urine, wastewater, feed waste, and bedding waste, was practiced by 28% of farmers, while 28% utilized burying and 12% engaged in Azolla production. The primary challenge reported was the lack of land for waste disposal (60%),
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 32 emphasizing a critical issue in planning. However, 16% reported no problems during waste disposal. These insights underscore the need for targeted interventions and policy development to address challenges, especially the scarcity of land. The research contributes valuable information for policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders striving for effective and sustainable waste management practices in Sri Lanka's cattle farming sector. By addressing these challenges, the study supports the development of informed strategies for a more sustainable and efficient cattle farming waste management system. KEYWORDS: Burying, Cattle farm, Compost, Farm holder, Waste disposal. 1Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 2Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 3Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 33 EFFECTS OF GAMMA IRRADIATION ON GROWTH AND YIELD CHARACTERISTICS OF COWPEA S.U. Nahalwathura1 , S. Sutharsan2 and M. Thenuja3,* ABSTRACT Mutation breeding has shown to be a vital part of agricultural genetic improvement and is important to maintaining global nutrition and food security. Nowadays mutation breeding plays a significant role in crop improvement on grain legumes which produces a large germplasm pool for selection and crop improvement. This study investigated the effects of gamma irradiation on growth and yield characteristics of Cowpea. This field experiment was conducted in the Crop farm, Eastern university of Sri Lanka, Palachcholai during August 2023 to November 2023. Cowpea seeds were exposed to Gamma irradiation by using "Gamma chamber 1200 Cobalt 60" research irradiator at HORDI, Gannoruwa. For this experiment seeds were irradiated with different lower doses of gamma radiation according to the different treatments such as T1 (0Gy), T2 (20Gy), T3 (40Gy), T4 (60Gy), T5 (80Gy) and T6 (100Gy). Irradiated seeds were planted in poly bags with rooting media thereafter seedlings were transplanted into open field. All the agronomic practices were carried according to the recommendation of Department of Agriculture. The experiment was designed in a Randomized Complete Block Design with six treatments and four replicates. Growth characteristic of shoot fresh weight and yield characteristics of number of pods and total yield were collected. Collected data were analyzed by using Minitab 17 version software and the mean comparison was performed by Tukey’s Test at 5% significant level. The results revealed that different doses of gamma radiation showed significant differences (p<0.05) in the measured variables. Among those different treatments, treatment T3 which irradiated
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 34 with 40Gy showed significantly increased values in growth characteristic of shoot fresh weight (48.3%) and yield characteristics of number of pods (65.9%) and total yield (125%). Therefore, it could be concluded from this study the treatment T3 (40Gy) is more suitable to generate the desirable characteristic in Cowpea especially in Waruni variety. KEYWORDS: Mutation breeding, Irradiated seeds, Gamma chamber and Total yield. 1,2,3 Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 35 EFFECTIVENESS OF BOTANICAL PESTICIDES IN PROTECTING THE STORED PADDY SEEDS FROM RICE GRAIN MOTH, Sitotroga cerealella (Lepidoptera: Gelechidae) K.S.F. Sabira1 and R.F. Niranjana2 ABSTRACT Rice, Oryza sativa L., holds immense significance as the world's primary food crop and ranks as the second most consumed cereal globally, following wheat. It plays a crucial role in providing nutrition to over half of the global population. The rice grain moth, Sitotroga cerealella (Olivier), is a highly destructive primary feeder and a widespread pest that causes serious damage to stored paddy. There is a current need for effective biodegradable pesticides due to rising issues triggered by the widespread use of synthetic pesticides. The present study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of selected botanical products possessing pesticidal properties in protecting stored paddy against S. cerealella concerning mortality and reduction in the emergence of F1 progeny. The powdery product of Acorus calamus rhizome, Ocimum tenuiflorum leaves, Annona muricata leaves, Annona squamosa leaves, Piper nigrum leaves, Eucalyptus glaucescens leaves, Lantana camara leaves, Syzygium aromaticum stem, and Citrus maxima fruit peel were mixed at the rate of 5 g/100 g of paddy grains, and the essential oils procured from the leaves of P. nigrum, E. glaucescens, and L. camara, S. aromaticum stem, and C. maxima fruit peel were mixed at the rate of 1 ml/100 g of paddy grains. Thereafter five newly emerged S. cerealella adults were introduced into each treatment under laboratory conditions (30 ± 2 °C and 70 ± 5%). The experiment was laid out according to the Completely Randomized Design consisting of fifteen treatments with three replicates. The mortality of introduced adult insects and reduction of F1 progeny of
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 36 them were recorded precisely from each treatment and replicate. Data were subjected to the analysis of variance aided by the Minitab 17 software, and means were compared using the Tukey test. The statistical analysis disclosed that the paddy grains treated with A. calamus rhizome powder caused 100% mortality of introduced adult insects after one day and entirely curtailed the F1 progeny emergence of S. cerealella. Based on these results, it could be concluded that A. calamus rhizome powdery product behaved as pesticide, had the highest potency in protecting the paddy grains from the infestation of S. cerealella, which is a serious stored pest of paddy grains in storage. KEYWORDS: Widespread pest, Pesticidal properties, Powdery product, Essential oils, Mortality. 1,2 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 37 BIOCONTROL NATURE OF ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZA FUNGI, Trichoderma viride, AND Pseudomonas fluorescens AGAINST FUSARIUM WILT DISEASE IN BRINJAL L.H.D. Indrachapa1 , T. Nirosha1* and K. Pakeerathan1 ABSTRACT Fusarium wilt is a soil-borne fungal disease that can be devastating to brinjal crops. The fungus, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. melongenae, enters the plant through the roots and blocks the xylem vessels. As a result, the plant wilts and eventually dies. This can be managed in various ways, but farmers solely depend on hazardous fungicides. Therefore, to reduce the non-target effect of over-application of fungicides, biocontrol of Fusarium wilt using Trichoderma viride, arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF), and Pseudomonas fluorescens could be possible. A set of pot experiments (Farmyard manurebased) was planned to evaluate the biocontrol agents’ performance with eight treatments with a combination of T. viride, AMF and P. fluorescens with three replicates. The experimental setup was arranged in a completely randomized design. ANOVA was performed using SAS and DMRT mean separation was done to identify the best treatment combination using the same software. The growth performance of brinjal, the antagonistic effect, and the inhibition percentage were calculated. F. oxysporum, T. viride, and P.fluorescens growth rates were higher in individual cultures in PDA media when compared to the growth of AMF. The results revealed that T. viride fungi were more prominent in suppressing the growth of F. oxysporum with an inhibition percentage of 51.14% compared to P. fluorescens (22.68%) and AM fungi showed a low suppressive nature to F. oxysporum with 6.55% of inhibition. Trichoderma-treated brinjal plants showed the highest growth rate, and the height of the plant was 39.8 cm five days after transplanting.
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 38 The root length of brinjal was significantly the greatest in the combination of all three biocontrol agent treatments at 20.17 cm. When compared to other biocontrol agents tested, Trichoderma-treated soil has improved the growth of the plant compared to the control as well. Plant height and root length were significantly higher in all farmyard manure-based media. Repeated trials are required to validate the results, and the secondary metabolites produced by the test microbes need to be quantified. KEYWORDS: Antagonistic Fungi, Farm Yard Manure, Microbes, Suppressive Nature. 1 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna, Kilinochchi. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 39 EFFECTS OF 60Co GAMMA RADIATION ON THE GROWTH AND YIELD OF Raphanus sativus (RADDISH) Haznad Khan1 , L.M. Rifnas1 , S. Sutharsan2 and A.J.M.C.M. Siriwardana1 ABSTRACT Gamma radiation exposure can induce genetic changes in plants, leading to the emergence of a plant variety that exhibits enhanced efficiency in physiological and biochemical activities. This can result in enhanced productivity and improved appearance. Gamma radiation has been used by scientists in mutation breeding that generates exceptionally efficient plant varieties. As a first step, it is essential to identify the optimum range of radiation that might result in favourable genetic alterations. Therefore, an experiment was conducted to assess the effects of gamma radiation on the growth and yield of radish var. Ceeta. The seeds were subjected to different doses of gamma radiation using a 60Co research irradiator located in HORDI, Gannoruwa, Sri Lanka. Two successive experiments were conducted, seeds in the initial experiment were exposed to gamma irradiation levels of 0 Gy, 20 Gy, 40 Gy, 60 Gy, 80 Gy, and 100 Gy, respectively. The second experiment was conducted by increasing the levels of radiation exposure to 0 Gy, 100 Gy, 200 Gy, 300 Gy, 400 Gy, and 500 Gy, based on the observations of the previous experiment. The treated seeds were planted in trays and after ten days, they were transplanted in farm field at the University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences in Hambantota. The planting was done using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), with four replications and twenty seedlings in each replication. The study was designed to assess morphological changes, germination, survival percentage, leaf length and width, root length, girth and weight of raddish. The data collected was analyzed using SAS 9.1.3 software and the treatment
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 40 means were compared using the DMRT at a significance level of 0.05. It was observed that doses of radiation ranging from 20 Gy to 100 Gy did not have any significant impact on the germination and survival of the plants. Therefore, there was an opportunity to increase the dosage beyond 100 Gy. In addition, increasing the radiation dosage to 500 Gy did not exceed the LD50 threshold. Plants exposed to a radiation dose of 500 Gy exhibited the flowering during the fourth week. There was significant difference among the treatments in terms of leaf length, width, weight, root girth, and root weight. Doses below 300 Gy did not produce any significant results, and as the gamma radiation dose increased, there was a gradual decrease in the parameters. It is possible to apply radiation stress above 500 Gy, however yield components should be taken into account. In conclusion, exposure to radiation levels of up to 300 Gy has a potential to enhance the development and productivity of radish. KEYWORDS: Crop improvement, Mutational breeding, Radiation dose effects, Variation. 1Department of Agro-Technology, University of Colombo Institute for Agro-Technology and Rural Sciences, Hambantota, Sri Lanka. 2Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture Eastern University of Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 41 EFFECT OF MULCHING AND IRRIGATION INTERVALS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF OKRA (Abelmoschus esculentus) GROWN IN SANDY SOIL OF PALACHOLAI AREA B. Kavilan1, *, R.Yathusa2 , N.Tharminath1 and M. Sugirtharan2 ABSTRACT An experiment was conducted at Agricultural Engineering field, faculty of agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka to assess the effect of mulching and irrigation interval on vegetative growth and yield of okra (Haritha). The experiment evolved into a factorial complete randomized design. There were 06 treatments comprising T1- black polythene mulch with daily irrigation, T2- black polythene mulch with once in a two days irrigation, T3- paddy straw mulch with daily irrigation, T4- without mulch with daily irrigation (control), T5- paddy straw mulch with once in a two days irrigation and T6- without mulch with once in two days irrigation which was replicated three times. Mulching and irrigation interval showed significant effect on all growth and yield parameters. The study revealed that plant height, number of leaves, number of flowers per plant, number of pods per plant, pods length, total yield, plant biomass and water use efficiency (WUE) among the different treatments were statistically significant at 0.05 probability level. Among the treatments, the black polythene mulch with daily irrigation treatment produced the maximum fruit yield (12060 t/ha), and had better plant height (25.11cm), number of leaves per plant (9), number of fruits per plant (11), average fruit length (16.082cm), root fresh and dry mean weight (6.733g and 3.733g), shoot fresh and dry mean weight (45.500g and 36.17g) and water use efficiency (WUE) (1.9879 kg/hamm). Thus, black polythene mulch with daily irrigation is better for okra production at palacholai area of Batticaloa district, Sri Lanka. KEYWORDS: Irrigation interval, Mulching, Okra, Yield and Water use efficiency. 1Department of Biosystem Technology, Faculty of Technology, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 2Dept. of Agricultural Engineering Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 42 INFLUENCE OF VERNALIZATION IN BOLTING AND BULB PRODUCTION OF CLUSTER ONION (Allium cepa L.) GERMPLASM DURING YALA SEASON IN KILINOCHCHI D.R.N. Abeysinghe1,*, S.J. Arasakesary2 and G. Thirukkumaran3 ABSTRACT An experiment was conducted to find out the influence of vernalization on bolting efficiency and bulb production of different varieties of cluster onion. This research was carried out during the period from February to June 2023 at the Experimental area, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna, Kilinochchi. Three onion varieties (MICLO1, ARLCLO2, ANKCLO1) and an advance breeding line (TVM6) were used with vernalization and nonvernalization of bulbs. Treated Bulbs and untreated bulbs were planted in field using Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. Agronomic traits (First Flower initiation days, 100% Flowering Days, Number of flowers per umbel, Number of Flower stalk per plant, Width of umbel(cm), Number of Seed per umbel, Number of bulbs per plant, Dry bulbs weight(g)) were recorded in different treatments from sampled plants. Data were analyzed using SAS application. Analyzed data revealed that the onion varieties responded differently for bolting and bulb formation. Overall, the study found that vernalization improves flowering ability, flower presence in umbels and umbel size, Mainly Floral characteristics were influenced by vernalization with cultivars. The varieties responded differently for bolting and bulb production. Varieties ARLCLO2 and MICLO1 were shown suitability for bulbs harvests with yields having varying bulbs traits while breeding TVM6 (76 Flowers/Plant) and variety MICLO1(54 Flowers/Plant) were found to be the best for bolting. as well as MICLO1(134 seed/umbel) and TVM6 (125 seed/ umbel) for true seed production.in Kilinochchi. KEYWORDS: Flowering, Seed setting, Genetics, Breeding, Agronomic traits. 1,2,3 Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna, Killinochchi. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 43 MORPHOLOGICAL AND PHYSIOLOGICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF RECOMMENDED COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata L.) VARIETIES IN RELATION WITH MOISTURE STRESS V.S. Dissanayake1,*, H.M.S.N. Herath2 and S.J. Arasekesary1 ABSTRACT Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata) is an important legume crop in dry zones of Sri Lanka. As such study was to evaluate the physiological, morphological and yield characteristics of five cowpea varieties namely Bombay, Dhawala, Waruni, ANKCP 01, and MICP 01 performed under different moisture levels (100%, 75%, 50% and 25%) at FCRDI (Field Crops Research and Development Institute), Mahailluppallama. The morphological, physiological, and yield characteristics of the cowpea varieties were investigated in a field experiment, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) showed significant variations among the varieties and moisture levels for the traits such as number of leaves after 6 weeks, number of branches 6WAP, leaflet width 6WAP, leaf area, number of days to flowering, number of partially opened stomata, number of fully closed stomata, pod length, seed length, seed width, seed thickness, and yield. The interaction effects between varieties and moisture stress were significant for the trait, number of branches after six weeks of planting, indicate the importance of considering these traits in the selection process of new variety development. Dhawala (V2) was the most promising and it outperformed others in terms of plant height, leaf size, number of branches, grain yield and root length under moisture stress even under 50% moisture condition. ANKCP 01 showed least number of days to germination (3 days) even in 25% moisture
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 44 condition. At early stages (2WAP and 4WAP) Bombay showed highest plant height among varieties and also Bombay showed good seed characteristics and leaf characteristics above 50% moisture stress condition. Dhawala showed highest number of leaves at all stages and concluded that the high rate of photosynthesis resulted in a very important trait of highest average yield of 5.08g even in 50% moisture condition. At 25% moisture level only Dhawala produced flowers. Among five varieties MICP 01 showed poor characterization for considered traits including lowest yield per plant (3.41g) under 25% moisture condition. Waruni showed highest stomata activity with longest pod (12.33cm) even in 50% moisture condition. Results of this study revealed that Dhawala is more suitable for even 50% of moisture, will contribute to ensure sustainable cowpea production in water-scarce environments, enhanced food security and agricultural sustainability. KEYWORDS: Cowpea, Morphological, Physiological, Characterization, Moisture stress. 1Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna, Killinochchi. 2 Field Crops Research and Development Institute, Mahailluppallama. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 45 EVALUATION OF RED ONION (Allium ascalonium L. GENOTYPES) (BREEDING LINES) FOR LEAF TWISTER DISEASE W.Z. Banu1,*, P.G.H.M.S.N. Herath2 and S.J. Arasakesary1 ABSTRACT Red onion (Allium ascalonium L.) is cultivated in northern region in Maha and Yala season. This crop is susceptible to various bulb, root and foliar diseases caused by fungi reducing the quality and quantity of its yield. Leaf twister disease caused by Colletotrichum gloeosporioides is a most devastating disease in onion cultivation. At present, there is no resistant variety or cultivar identified for leaf twister disease for commercial cultivation in Sri Lanka. As there is a need to identify and select resistant or tolerant varieties for leaf twister disease and best variety with preferred growth parameters to increase yield and productivity. Therefore, a study to identify resistant or tolerant genotype for leaf twister disease and to evaluate their characteristics was conducted at Regional Agricultural Research and Development Centre, Northern region of Sri Lanka (Kilinochchi). Seven red onion lines viz: TVM-6, CON-5, Vethalam, TV Red, Jaffna local, True seed and ANKCLO-1 were tested. Bulbs of the lines were planted in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) in three replicates. Each plot had 100 bulbs planted with 10cm × 10cm spacing. Colletotrichum gloeosporioides affected red onion sample was isolated, sterilized and in order to inoculate in antibiotic added PDA media. Isolated Colletotrichum gloeosporioides inoculum was applied as a foliar application to experimental field. Disease severity index was recorded (using 0 to 7 scale 3 times at 2 weeks interval after inoculation of spores). Randomly selected 20 plants from each plot
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 46 were used for data collection on disease severity. Plant heights, Number of clusters per plant, Number of Leaves per plant, Bulb size & shape and total bulb yield were recorded. These data were subjected to ANOVA using SAS programme 9.4 version. Analysis of the data revealed that the TVM-6 had the significant least disease severity index (4.76%) and ANKCLO-1 has 22.86% disease severity. Jaffna local had highest disease severity index (93.33%) and Vethalam, CON-5, True seed and TV Red had 51.43%, 63.81%, 82.86%, and 83.81% respectively. The data revealed that, TVM-6 could be a resistant variety, ANKCLO-1 had identified as a moderately resistant variety. TVM-6 can be select as a potential variety to release and used as a parental line for further breeding programme to produce resistant progeny for leaf twister disease. Also, farmers can cultivate TVM-6 and ANKCLO-1 cultivars during rainy season to reduce the incidence of leaf twister disease and to increase the productivity. CON-5, Vethalam, TV Red, True seed and Jaffna local had identified as a highly susceptible varieties for leaf twister disease. Highest yield had been observed in TVM-6 as 10.69 tons/ha. KEYWORDS: Breeding, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Leaf twister disease, Red onion, Resistant cultivar. 1Department of Agricultural Biology, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Jaffna, Kilinochchi. 2Regional Agricultural Research and Development Centre, Kilinochchi. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 47 THE EFFECT OF PLANT GROWTH PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA WITH BIOCHAR AND CHEMICAL FERTILIZERS ON SOIL PHOSPHOROUS, PLANT PHOSPHOROUS AND COB GIRTH OF MAIZE GROWN IN SANDY REGOSOLS R. Krishnananthy1,* and P. Premanandarajah2 ABSTRACT Phosphorus prevalent in soils in both organic and inorganic forms, but availability is limited to plants because it is primarily found in insoluble forms. The release of these insoluble into soluble forms is an important to increasing soil phosphorus availability. PGPR (Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria) have been proven a successful technology for the mobilization of immobile nutrients in the soil. Combining biochar with PGPR as a soil fertilizer is a feasible strategy to agricultural sustainability. Though, there is limited study on the effect of combine application of biochar and PGPR in field conditions. Therefore, this experiment was intended to determine the impact of lower rates of inorganic fertilizers combined with PGPR and biochar on soil, plant phosphorus and cob girth of maize grown in sandy regosols. The experiment was conducted at Eastern university, Sri Lanka. There were eight treatments replicated three times in RCBD. Among the 8 treatments: four treatments combining sole PGPR (Azospirillum sp., Azotobacter sp., Phosphorous solubilizing bacteria (PSB) (Pseudomonas sp.) and Potassium Solubilizing Bacteria (KSB) (Bacillus sp.) with biochar and 50% Recommended Chemical Fertilizers (RCF), two treatments by combined PSB, KSB, biochar, 50% RCF with Azospirillum sp. and Azotobacter sp. respectively, a treatment combining biochar with 50% RCF, and control as RCF. Biochar was made by using coconut husk in a modified kiln preparation technique and used at the rate of 8 t/ha.
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 48 Rhizobacteria inoculants were used in field application at the rate of 300 ml acre-1 . TSP, MOP and urea fertilizers were used as RCF. All the agronomic practices were carried. At harvest cob girth was measured, plant total phosphorus, available soil phosphorus was analyzed. The data was subjected to analyze of variance (α=0.05) based on the RCBD through “mini tab” software statistical package. Mean separation was done with turkey’s test. The results indicated that the co-inoculated Azotobacter combined treatment positively influenced on cob girth and plant, soil phosphorus. KEYWORDS: Plant nutrition, Soil fertility. 1,2 Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. *Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 49 OPTIMIZING FARMYARD COMPOST QUALITY: A COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF COW DUNG, POULTRY MANURE, AND JEEWAMIRTHA ADDITIVES W.A.K.N. Witharana1 , R. Thivyatharsan2 and G. Niroash3,* ABSTRACT Poor compost quality, high operational costs, and limited funding have hindered successful composting efforts in Sri Lanka. The study was conducted from September to December 2023 at the Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka, to address these issues. This research focused on the nutritional assessment of farmyard compost, utilizing cow dung, poultry manure, and Jeewamirtha, a fermented microbial culture. The study implemented six distinct treatments in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD), each replicated three times. These treatments encompassed a range of combinations, varying in proportions of farmyard material, cow dung, poultry manure, and Jeewamirtha. They included: T1: 50% farmyard material, 50% cow dung, and 5 liters of Jeewamirtha, T2: 50% farmyard material, 50% poultry manure, and 10 liters of Jeewamirtha, T3: 50% farmyard material, 25% cow dung, 25% poultry manure, and 15 liters of Jeewamirtha, T4: 50% farmyard material, 35% cow dung, 15% poultry manure, and 20 liters of Jeewamirtha, T5: 50% farmyard material, 15% cow dung, 35% poultry manure, and 25 liters of Jeewamirtha, T6: 100% farmyard material (control). The study meticulously assessed the compost's nutritional content, analyzing parameters like nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, organic carbon, water holding capacity, sand content, C:N ratio, electrical conductivity, and microorganism percentage at maturity. Notably, the compost mixture comprising 50% farmyard, 50% poultry manure, and 10
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 50 liters of Jeewamirtha (T2) demonstrated significantly higher levels of available nutrients. It recorded nitrogen at 0.84%, phosphorus at 0.43%, potassium at 0.86%, a water holding capacity of 79.43%, and an electrical conductivity of 0.71 Ms/cm. These findings indicate that this compost composition is highly effective in enriching nutrient content, showcasing its potential for enhancing sustainable agricultural practices. KEYWORDS: Farmyard Compost, Jeewamirtha, Nutritional Assessment, Sustainable Agriculture. 1,2,3 Department of Agricultural Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 51 EFFECT OF ORGANIC AND INORGANIC FERTILIZER ON THE ROOT CHARACTERISTICS OF COWPEA (Vigna unguiculata L.) D.P.G.P. Sewwandi1,*, T. Geretharan2 and S. Srikrishnah3 ABSTRACT The root system is a crucial component of plants because it anchors the plant to the surface on which it grows and facilitates the process of drawing water and nutrients from the soil. In the present study, we conducted a pot experiment at the crop farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka, to study the effect of organic and inorganic fertilizer application on the root characteristics of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata). The experiment was arranged in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with 3 treatments replicated five times; Control – without fertilizer (T1), inorganic fertilizer (T2) based on the recommendation by the Department of Agriculture and, organic fertilizer (T3). The results of the experiment showed significant differences (p<0.05) among the treatments. Accordingly, T3 showed the highest root length (196.19%), total root surface area (232.65%), total root volume (241.17%) and a higher root dry weight (306.77%) compared to the control treatment (T1). There was also a statistical significance in the root surface area (SA) of the diameter classes 1 (0<SA<=1.0), 2 (1.0<SA<=2.0) and 3 (2.0<SA<=3.0) in T3 which produced the highest values 199.43%, 365.24% and 125.49% respectively, compared to the control treatment. In addition, we observed a higher number of pods per plant in T3 compared to T1. Therefore, it was evident from the results of this experiment that application of organic fertilizer (compost) produced the best root characteristics of cowpea. KEYWORDS: Cowpea, Organic fertilizer, Root morphology. 1,2,3 Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 52 ADAPTATION STRATEGIES TOWARDS CLIMATE CHANGE: INSIGHTS OF HOMEGARDENERS IN AMPARA DISTRICT Krishnal Thirumarpan1,* and J. Jeyapragash2 ABSTRACT Climate change has become a global concern affecting the livelihoods of rural poor. Homegardens are a dynamic and sustainable source of income for rural communities in Sri Lanka but are particularly vulnerable to climate change. Hence, suitable adaptation strategies are important to cope with uncertainties brought about by climate change. This study provides an overview of the climate change adaptation strategies by homegardeners in Ampara district. Two Divisional Secretariat divisions were selected, and a hundred homegardeners were selected using stratified random sampling method. Data related to perceptions of climate change, adaptation strategies, and respondents' socio-economic characteristics were drawn from the survey. The study employed descriptive methods for analysis, and an adaptation strategy index was developed based on the relative importance of different strategies. Results revealed that all the respondents had heard the term “climate change”. 82% perceived that extreme drought/ higher temperature and abnormal increases in rainfall were due to climate change. The relative importance of adaptation strategies to climate change was analyzed, and it was found that changes in the date of planting/ harvesting were ranked as the first and most important adaptation strategy, followed by seeking early warning information on climate change and growing insects/diseases resistant crops/varieties as second and third ranked strategies. All respondents used at least one or more adaptation strategies. Since implementing adaptive measures will greatly help reduce the adverse impacts of climate change, policies have to be formulated to provide more awareness to homegardeners about climate change adaptive measures and improve their livelihoods. KEYWORDS: Climate change, Homegardens, Adaptation strategy. 1 Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 2 BT/ BC Valaichenai Anoor Maha Vidyalayam. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 53 UNDERSTANDING THE ROLE OF AQUAPORINS IN Solanum melongena UNDER DROUGHT AND SALT STRESS Amrutha Shivaraju1 , Dhananjay Kumar 2 and Lakshmi Sahitya Uppuluri1,* ABSTRACT Water availability is one of crucial factors for growth, development and productivity of plants. Owing to climate change induced by anthropogenic activities, flash droughts became very frequent. With increase in drought conditions, salinity conditions prevail. In these times, improving tolerance of plants against drought and salinity stress becomes prerequisite to ensure global food security. Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is recognized as one of the important crops for food security specifically in tropical and subtropical regions. Identifying candidate genes that play major roles in conferring drought tolerance to plants is one of the effective strategies with the availability of genome data. Aquaporin protein family comprises a large family of transmembrane protein channels which facilitate rapid movement of water and other small molecules of physiological implication. Many aquaporins are known to play significant role in transport of small solutes other than water which have implications in tolerance. Keeping in the view of importance of aquaporins and availability of egg plant genome, the present study aimed at characterization of aquaporin family in egg plant and also to understand the role of aquaporins under drought and salinity stress by studying gene expressions. Three egg plant varieties were subjected to four different water regimes viz., 100% Field Capacity (FC), 80% FC, 60% FC and 40% FC. Also, varieties were subjected to five different salinity treatments viz., 0, 50, 100, 150 and 200 mM of NaCl. Plasma membrane Intrinsic Protein and Tonoplast Intrinsic Protein expressions were measured
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 54 among the plants in both roots and leaves. In both drought and salt stress conditions, up-regulation of PIPs was more prominent than TIPs whereas in leaves, up-regulation of TIPs were prominent than PIPs. Few aquaporins were found to up-regulate in both salt and drought stress while few were down-regulated. Among the three varieties under the study, one variety displayed up-regulation of most of the aquaporins which might be one of the reasons, why it showed high tolerance in comparison to other two. Furthermore, protein- protein interactions was studied among the aquaporins in silico to identify important protein. These results provide a valuable reference for further exploration of the SmAQPs’ functions and applications for the genetic improvement of abiotic stress tolerance in Egg plant. KEYWORDS: Abiotic Stress, Aquaporin, Candidate Gene, Drought, Egg plant, Salinity Stress, Tolerance. 1, * Department of Life Sciences, Sri Satya Sai University for Human Excellence. 2 Vellore Institute of Technology. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 55 DEVELOPMENT OF EDIBLE COATING FORMULATION BASED ON DAWUL KURUNDU (Neolitsea cassia) LEAF MUCILAGE TO EXTEND THE POSTHARVEST SHELF-LIFE OF GREEN CHILLIES (Capsicum frutescens) Y.G.G.K.D.M. Prasangika1 and Mahinda Senevirathne2,* ABSTRACT Capsicum frutescens, a green chilli variety, is one of the most significant vegetable crops in Sri Lanka. Since produce is perishable, it may undergo substantial physiological and biochemical changes that can lead to quick deterioration, including shriveling, wilting, pathogenic infections, and moisture loss. In order to reduce the postharvest losses of green chillies and prolong their shelf life, it is necessary to adhere to proper postharvest handling practices such as coatings or wax to the surfaces of fresh fruits and vegetables is becoming increasingly popular as a way to slow down deterioration. Therefore, this study aimed to examine the potential use of Dawul Kurundu (Neolitsea cassia) leaf mucilage as a polysaccharide-based edible coating for the preservation of green chillies by maintaining the freshness quality during postharvest storage. There were five different Dawul Kurundu-based composite coating formulations were prepared by using Dawul Kurundu leaf mucilage, lemongrass essential oil, carboxymethyl cellulose, glycerol, and lecithin as T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5. The effectiveness of edible coating formulations was enhanced by using lemongrass essential oil that has ability to act as an antibacterial and antifungal substance. In addition, Carboxymethyl cellulose and glycerol were added to improve the filmforming ability of the coating solution which have potential use as food coating materials. Each coating formula is composed of different concentrations of Dawul Kurundu leaf mucilage, 0.05% (v/v) of lemongrass essential oil, 0.05% (v/v) of lecithin and 1% (v/v) of glycerol. T1 and T2 not contained
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 56 carboxymethyl cellulose and the Dawul Kurundu concentration was 1:8 and 1:6 (leaves: 1% citric acid solution). T3, T4, and T5 consisted of 0.1%(w/v), 0.3%(w/v), and 0.5%(w/v) of carboxymethyl cellulose respectively with the same concentration of Dawul Kurundu leaf mucilage that of 1:6 (leaves: citric acid solution). The application of coating formulations to the chilies was done by following the dipping method for 3 minutes. The physicochemical parameters of the coated and control chillies were periodically evaluated at regular intervals during 12 days of storage period at room temperature (28 ± 2ºC). In comparison to the uncoated green chillies, the coated chillies with T1, T2, T3, and T4 coating formulations showed a significant delay in the changes in their skin color, titratable acidity, pH, weight loss, total soluble solids, and visual quality. The coated green chillies with the T3 coating formulation exhibited improved performance compared to the other coating formulations. The results indicate that Dawul Kurundu-based edible composite coating formulation effectively limits the transmission of respiratory gases and moisture to retain the textural and sensory properties of green chillies by acting as primary packaging. The varying concentrations of Dawul Kurundu mucilage and carboxymethyl cellulose, along with the effects of glycerol and lemongrass demonstrate cost-effective and beneficial applications as a natural, edible coating for green chillies. KEYWORDS: Dawul Kurundu, edible coating, green chilles, postharvest handling. 1,2 Department of Food Science and Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 57 CAN SLOW-GROWING CHICKEN BE RAISED FOR MEAT PURPOSE IN SRI LANKA? K.G.N.H. Kumari1 , G.A.K.N. Getamanna2 and S.C. Somasiri3,* ABSTRACT Presently, there is a trend to deviate from intensively reared broiler meat to indigenous chicken meat considering the flavour, health and issues related to animal welfare. Thus, a research was designed to test whether the slowgrowing indigenous chicken can be reared for meat purpose. Giriraj cross poultry was reared under semi-intensive (Treatment) and intensive (Control) systems by feeding with a cereal-based starter, grower and finisher rations formulated using commercially available feed ingredients. One hundred and twenty-six (126) birds were reared in treatment with six replicates and 63 birds were reared in control with three replicates. The birds in the treatment were fed only 80% of the feed requirement but in the control, 100% of the requirement was provided. Birds were slaughtered at the age of 81 days. Data collected included daily feed intake, weekly body weight and total carcass weight. Feed conversion ratio (FCR), body weight gain and average meat production per bird were calculated. The crude protein and metabolizable energy content of the formulated starter, grower and finisher rations were 22.39±0.36%, 20.88±0.09%, 19.77±0.86% and 2316.94±179.09 kcal/kgDM, 2463.39±412.41 kcal/kgDM, 2722.533±205.38 kcal/kgDM respectively. The body weight gain during the starter period of treatment and control (271.31±24.92 g, 271.31±35.24 g) and the finisher period of treatment and control (262.82±24.92 g, 261.97±35.24 g) were not significantly different. However, the body weight gain during the grower stage of control (631.85±35.24 g) was significantly higher (p˂0.05) than the
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 58 treatment (490.95±24.92 g). Overall FCR in treatment (4.28±0.20) and the control (4.62±0.28) was not significantly different. The average meat production per bird in the control (954.42±31.20 g) was significantly higher (p˂0.05) than that of the treatment (774.29±22.06 g). Hence, considering the body weight gain and average meat production per bird slow-growing indigenous chicken can be reared for meat purpose under intensive system however, considering the FCR either system is efficient. KEYWORDS: Feed conversion ratio, Formulated ration, Semi-intensive rearing system. 1,2,3 Faculty of Agriculture, Rajarata University of Sri Lanka, Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 59 EFFECT OF GINGER RHIZOME EXTRACT IMMERSION ON THE PHYSICOCHEMICAL AND SENSORY PARAMETERS OF THE COOKED CULLED BROWN LEGHORN HEN MEAT M.F. Vahaful Nisath1,* , M. Pagthinathan2 , S.T.D. De Silva3 and P. Mithushan4 ABSTRACT Meat from culled layer hens is poor in physicochemical and sensory qualities. The Effects of ginger rhizome extract immersion improve the qualities of the culled meat products. The experiment was carried out to determine the effect of ginger rhizome extract immersion on the physicochemical and sensory parameters of cooked culled brown leghorn hen meat and its correlation. The experiment was carried out with the following treatments: control without immersion (T1), 10% ginger rhizome extract immersion (T2), 20% ginger rhizome extract immersion (T3), and 30% ginger rhizome extract immersion (T4). Physicochemical parameters including cooking loss, cooking yield, pH, marinade absorption, dry matter, and sensory parameters were analyzed for cooked culled brown leghorn meat. The parameters were measured on the 1st day of cooking. The data were analyzed by using ANOVA by SPSS software version 25.00 and the turkey test with a significant level of 5%. Three replicates were used with complete Randomized Design. The correlation was determined with the Pearson correlation test. Sensory analysis was performed with Friedman's non-parametric test. The pH was significantly (p<0.05) high (6.51±0.01) for control. The cooking loss was significantly (p<0.05) high (53.02±1.54%) for control. Cooking yield was significantly (p<0.05) higher (65.23±0.96%) for T4. There was significant difference (p<0.05) in marinade absorption. However, there was no significant differences between T2, T3, and T4. Dry matter content (46.09±1.54%) was significantly (p<0.05) higher for control.
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 60 Cooking yield was negatively correlated (p<0.01) with cooking loss, pH, and hardness. Hardness was positively correlated (p<0.01) with pH and cooking loss. Marinade absorption was positively correlated (p<0.01) with cooking yield. Moreover, marinade absorption was negatively correlated (p<0.05) with hardness. Sensory characteristics including taste, flavor, texture, and overall acceptability received a higher sensory panel score for T2. Finally, it was concluded that 10% ginger rhizome extract immersion had a positive impact on the physicochemical and sensory parameters of cooked culled brown leghorn hen meat compared with other treatments. KEYWORDS: Cooking loss, Dry matter, Flavor, Hardness, pH. 1,2,3,4 Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 61 QUALITY AND SHELF LIFE OF CHICKEN SAUSAGES DIPPED IN CHITOSAN SOLUTION P. Mithushan1*, S. Ravikumar2 , M. Pagthinathan3 and M.F. Vahaful Nisath4 ABSTRACT Chitosan have the ability to prolong the shelf life of sausages due to the antimicrobial properties. These studies were investigated on the physicochemical, microbiological and sensory qualities of chicken sausage that has been treated with various chitosan concentrations. Chitosan was separated by chemical extraction method from the shrimp shell and dissolved in acetic acid to prepare three different concentration solutions of chitosan (0 %, 0.25 %, 0.5 %, and 1 %). Then sausages were divided into four groups and dipped in different chitosan solutions and the control group of sausages were dipped in distilled water. The samples were analyzed for the parameters including, pH, weight loss, moisture content (%), moisture holding capacity (%), Shear force value (N), and the total bacterial count (Log CFU/g) after one week of refrigerated storage. Data were analyzed with a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. Dipping in chitosan solution significantly inhibited (P<0.05) the growth of bacteria. At the end of first week, 1 % chitosan dipped sausages have the lowest number of colonies (4.43 Log CFU/g) than control (4.98 Log CFU/g). Furthermore, shear force value and moisture holding capacity of chicken sausages were increased by dipping them in chitosan solution. Also, chitosan film reduce the weight loss by holding the moisture and improved the pH values. The weight loss of sausages that are dipped in chitosan solutions are lowest in 1 % chitosan dipped sausages. (26.65 0.71) followed by 0.5 % and 0.25 % chitosan dipped sausages which were lower than control sausages. However, the
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 62 moisture content of the sausages didn’t have any significant effect by dipping in chitosan solution less than 1 % concentration. According to the sensory analysis, 1 % chitosan dipped sausage have the maximum acceptability for smell, color, taste, appearance, texture and overall acceptance. Based on these results, it is concluded that, dipping in 1 % chitosan solution will improve the quality and shelf life of sausages. KEYWORDS: Chemical extraction, Moisture content, Sensory qualities, Shrimp shell, Total bacterial count. 1,3,4 Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 2Coastal Aquaculture Extension and Monitoring Unit, Batticaloa, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 63 NUTRITIVE VALUES OF SELECTED FODDER SPECIES AVAILABLE AROUND THE PREMISES OF EASTERN UNIVERSITY, SRI LANKA P. Mithushan1*, M.M. Mahusoon2 , M.F. Vahaful Nisath3 and S. Thirumaran4 ABSTRACT The aim of this experiment was to figure out the nutritional value of some cultivated fodder species around the Eastern university premises. Fodder grasses; CO3 (Pennisetum purpureum×Pennisetum americanum), Super Napier (Pennisetum purpureum), Guinea grass (Panicum maximum) and Fodder legumes; Ipil (Leucaena leucocephala), Gliricidia (Gliricidia sepium), Dadap (Erithrina indica), Pongam (Pongamia pinnata) and Sesbania (Sesbania grandiflora) were analyzed for nutritional composition. The fodder samples were gathered from the university premises, and 100g of each samples were cleaned, and chopped for proximate analysis to determine the chemical composition such as Dry matter content (DM), Crude protein (CP), Crude fiber (CF), Ether extract (EE), Ash content, and Nitrogen free extract (NFE). Nutritional data were statistically analyzed by one-way ANOVA in Minitab 17.1.0 software. The analysis revealed that the Pongamia pinnata has the highest (p<0.05) mean DM content (41.200.24 %) than other fodder species. Sesbania had the highest (p<0.05) mean CP level (24.360.49 %), followed by Erithrina indica (23.75 %) and Gliricidia sepium (22.74 %), while Guinea grass had the lowest (p<0.05) mean CP content (5.610.08 %). It was proved that fodder legumes have higher CP % than fodder grasses. Guinea grass and CO3 grass shown the highest mean (p<0.05) CF % 33.601.58 and 33.231.76 respectively, while Pongamia pinnata had the lowest (p<0.05) mean CF content (10.500.26 %). Ipil and
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 64 Dadap had the highest (p<0.05) mean ash level (12.410.04 %) and 12.380.04 respectively. Sesbania had the lowest (p<0.05) mean ash content (8.410.03 %). The highest mean value of ash content (12.410.04 %) and NFE (51.080.15), were found in Ipil compared to other fodder species. The study reveals that various fodder grasses and legumes possess higher nutritional values and are comparable to other references. These fodders can be utilized for ruminant feeding and for formulating total mixed rations for dairy cows based on the available nutrient composition. KEYWORDS: Fodder grasses, Fodder legumes, Mixed rations, Nutritional composition, Proximate analysis. 1,2,3 Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. 4Department of Agric. Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Eastern University, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 65 A PRELIMINARY SURVEY ON JUMPING SPIDER FAUNA (ARANEAE: SALTICIDAE) FROM EASTERN UNIVERSITY PREMISES, SRI LANKA N. Kanesharatnam1,* and A.A.S.N. Kalansooriya2 ABSTRACT Family Salticidae is commonly known as jumping spiders due to their conspicuous leaping movements. It is the most speciose spider family in Araneae with 6620 described species categorized under 677 genera representing about 13% of global spider diversity. In Sri Lanka, salticid diversity is represented by 102 species placed in 55 genera and 5 subfamilies of which 63 are endemic species. In Eastern Sri Lanka, a very few studies had been undertaken to depict the endemic species and new species of jumping spiders to science. Jumping spiders were collected in the Forest of Eastern University from February to July, 2020. Study sites were demarcated with different plant coverage including woody plants and bushes in order to sample different species of jumping spiders. Sample collection was done by sweep netting, hand picking, litter collection and beating of vegetation. Specimens were preserved in 70-80% ethanol. Salticids were identified up to species level based on morphology of epigyne and male palp structure, body shapes, colour patterns and abdominal markings. A total of 16 salticid species belonging to 16 genera were identified up to species level; Aelurillus quadrimaculatus Simon 1889, Bianor angulosus (Karsch, 1879), Carrhotus viduus (Koch, 1846), Chrysilla volupe (Karsch, 1879), Cyrba ocellata (Kroneberg, 1875), Hyllus pudicus Thorell 1895, Harmochirus brachiatus (Thorell, 1877), Hasarius adansoni (Audouin, 1826), Myrmaplata plataleoides (Pickard-Cambridge, 1869), Phintelloides alborea
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 66 Kanesharatnam & Benjamin 2019, Phintella vittata (Koch, 1846), Plexippus paykulli (Audouin, 1826) Proszynskia diatreta (Simon, 1902), Rhene flavicomans Simon 1902, Telamonia sponsa (Simon 1902), Thyene imperialis (Rossi, 1846). Among them, Aelurillus quadrimaculatus, Bianor angulosus and Harmochirus brachiatus are litter dwelling jumping spiders. Three new species records (Hyllus pudicus, Hasarius adansoni, Thyene imperialis) to Sri Lanka are proposed here. In addition, two new species were diagnosed; Phintella sp and Telamonia sp. However detailed phylogeny with molecular analysis will be needed for identification of new taxa of jumping spiders of this island. KEYWORDS: Beating of vegetation, Eastern province, Genitalia, Salticids, Taxonomy. 1,2 Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Eastern University of Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 67 CORN COBS DERIVED BIO-SORBENT TO REMOVE ORGANIC POLLUTANTS FROM GREYWATER Y. Suntharalingam1,* and S. Devaisy2 ABSTRACT This study focuses the use of low-cost corncobs (Zea-mays L.) as a biosorbent for greywater treatment, highlighting the removal of total organics. The corn cobs were collected from a local market then thoroughly washed; oven dried at 60˚C to drive off moisture content. The dried corncobs were ground using a handheld motor to obtain uniform size of particles (< 500 µm) and stored in air tight containers. To determine the optimum dosage and contact time of the biosorbent, a batch adsorption experiment was conducted through adsorption isotherms and kinetics, respectively at constant room temperature (27oC). Isotherms were conducted for varying doses of biosorbent (1 g/L to 12 g/L) whereas kinetics for varying contact times (30 min to 24 hours). Results revealed the optimum dose was 4 g/L, and the contact time was 240 min in terms of reducing turbidity, chemical oxygen demand (COD), and electrical conductivity (EC) from the raw grey water. This corresponds to the adsorption capacity (qe) of 69.25 mg/g for COD. The corn cobs exhibited excellent reductions in COD (62%), turbidity (94%), and EC (30%) from the raw grey water which is characterized by COD of 449 mg/L, turbidity at 172 NTU, and EC at 4.20 ms/cm. The pseudo-second-order kinetic model for the removal of COD predicted with an R2 value of 0.978 which assumes this as chemisorption. This involves covalent bonding through sharing or exchanging electrons between the adsorbent and the adsorbate. The Elovich isotherm model explains the experimental data on adsorption equilibrium with an R2 value of 0.883,
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 68 which is based on a chemisorption kinematic principle on heterogenous surfaces. This study concludes the waste derived corn cobs can be utilized as a biosorbent which can be incorporated with eco-friendly treatment systems to enhance the grey water treatment efficiency for the reuse of water. KEYWORDS: Adsorption, Chemical Oxygen Demand, Corn cobs, Greywater, Reuse. 1,2 Department of Bio-science, Faculty of Applied Science, University of Vavuniya, Sri Lanka. * Corresponding Author: [email protected].
International Conference on Multidisciplinary Research (ICMR 2024) Eastern University, Sri Lanka, Tamil Nadu Teachers Education University, India, and ESN Publications, India 69 INVESTIGATION OF MICROPLASTICS IN Oreochromis niloticus, SEDIMENT, AND SURFACE WATER AT ERAVUR LAGOON IN BATTICALOA DISTRICT A.S.S Jahan1 *, P. Vinobaba2 and A.J.M. Harris3 ABSTRACT The amount of plastic being produced is greatly increasing. However, there is a severe lack of management, tons of plastic waste are dumped into water bodies, causing microplastic pollution all over the world and having a detrimental effect on aquatic life. Therefore, this study intends to examine the characterization of microplastics in three separate aquatic environmental circumstances such as surface water, sediment, and aquatic biota (Oreochromis niloticus) at the Eravur lagoon. Water samples were gathered using standard one-liter buckets, while sediments were collected using an Ekman grab sampler. Density separation was performed using a NaCl solution, and any floating solids underwent a wet peroxidation method before being observed under a stereomicroscope. By abundance level, shape, color, and size factors, they were classified into multiple groups. Total microplastic abundance in sediment and surface water was 512.25 ± 29.26 items/Kg dry weight and 412.33 ± 19.90 items/L, respectively. Overall analysis from sediment and surface water point out that fragments and film of microplastics were more abundant in Lagoon-shore than in the lagoon sample sites. A substantial amount of white microplastics have been identified in surface water and lagoon-shore sediment. Microplastics were found in greater quantities in Lagoon surface water samples when the mesh size was increased. In the digestive tracts of 26 out of the 30 tilapia fish samples examined, totaling 232 microplastics, with an average of 7.73 ± 6.8