International Journal of Agriculture Innovations and Cutting-Edge Research (HEC Recognised)

Healing with Nature: Ethnobotanical Documentation of Medicinal Flora in Fajigram, District Bajaur, Pakistan

2025-11-27T15:20:37+00:00

Fajigram, known for its rich vegetation, was surveyed to document traditional medicinal plant knowledge through systematic ethnobotanical fieldwork conducted from August 2022 to September 2023. Plant specimens were collected during their flowering and fruiting stages to ensure accurate identification and proper recording of their uses. A total of 81 plant species belonging to 37 families were collected for the curing of various diseases. The leading family was Asteraceae, comprising 11 (13.58%) species, while the whole plant was the most frequently utilized, reported in 25 species (30.86%), followed by roots, seeds, leaves and other parts in varying proportions. Ethnobotanical data were obtained through questionnaires and semi-structured interviews with approximately three hundred indigenous inhabitants from different villages within the study area. The sample included an equal representation of males and females with ages ranging from 33 to 99 years. The recorded information includes local name, botanical name, family name, part used and specific medicinal applications of each species. Although no extensive research was conducted before this to investigate the medicinal uses of these plants in the study area and the findings not only preserve valuable traditional knowledge that is at risk of being lost due to socio-cultural changes but also provide a rich foundation for future pharmacological investigations and conservation strategies.

Polysaccharide-Based Hydrogels for Sustainable Agriculture: Recent Advances and Applications

2025-11-27T15:29:12+00:00

Hydrogels are three-dimensional networks of polymer chains that have the property to absorb and retain a significant amount of water. Polymers like cellulose, chitosan, alginate, starch, and pectin are usually used to prepare hydrogels. Cross-linking is a fundamental process in hydrogel formation, transforming soluble polymers into three-dimensional networks capable of absorbing and retaining large amounts of water. Over the past few years, polysaccharide-based hydrogels have emerged as a sustainable material for agricultural practices to address the issues of limited water supply and increase the protective properties of the soils. This review discusses the types of hydrogels and the principles of swelling and cross-linking of hydrogels, especially in biopolymers (guar gum, pectin, and sodium alginate). These biopolymers are biodegradable, eco-friendly, and increase the capability of arid and semi-arid soils to retain water, enhance the utilization of nutrients, and promote plant growth. A thorough search of scientific databases was conducted to identify the relevant studies that were used to compile the most relevant and reliable results. This review also highlights the recent developments and limitations in the hydrogel technology for sustainable agricultural practices.

Phytochemical Profiling and Antimicrobial Potential of Fagonia Indica Solvent Extracts, Highlighting Biofilm Suppression

2025-11-27T15:35:56+00:00

This study investigates the phytochemical composition and antimicrobial properties of aerial part extracts of Fagonia indica, a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine. Sequential extraction was performed using solvents of increasing polarity (n-hexane, chloroform, ethyl acetate, acetone, methanol, and water). Qualitative phytochemical screening was coupled with quantitative analyses of total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC). Multidrug-resistant (MDR) Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria as well as a fungal strain were tested for antimicrobial activity utilizing disk diffusion, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) assays. Additionally, anti-biofilm potential was studied. Methanol and ethyl acetate extracts yielded the highest TPC (125.7 ± 5.2 mg GAE/g) and TFC (68.4 ± 3.8 mg QE/g), correlating with broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, particularly among polar extracts, which produced larger inhibition zones and lower MIC values. Importantly, despite lower overall phytochemical yield, the chloroform extract exhibited superior anti-biofilm activity, inhibiting Staphylococcus aureus (71.8%) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (70.8%). These findings confirm that solvent polarity differentially influences both antimicrobial potency and anti-biofilm efficacy. Overall, this study underscores the chloroform extract of F. indica as a novel and promising source of targeted anti-biofilm agents, offering valuable insights for developing innovative, plant-based therapeutics against resistant and biofilm-associated infections.

Ecological and Taxonomic Insights into Mosquito Fauna of Subtropical Agro-Regions

2025-11-27T15:45:52+00:00

They have medical significance because they spread illnesses such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya, and filariasis. This study focused on understanding where the mosquito species present in Vehari are found and which species they are during the months when mosquitoes are most active in the region. Entomological surveys were conducted in both urban and rural habitats in both towns and rural areas, including in fields, water systems and homes and used various tools such as hand aspirators, sweep nets and CDC light traps. According to their appearance and with the help of recognized taxonomic keys, several working groups found 4 genera—Anopheles, Culex, Aedes, Armigeres and Mansonia—and 11 species of mosquitoes altogether. In urban parts of the country, Aedes aegypti and Culex quinquefasciatus were present in the greatest numbers, and in the irrigated agricultural areas, Anopheles stephensi and Culex tritaeniorhynchus could be seen more often. Fewer species were found during the spring and fall, with the largest numbers found in the monsoon months of July, August and September. This research gives us the first full inventory of mosquitoes in Vehari and points out that continuous surveillance aids in support of IVM.

Monitoring of Pink Bollworm (Pectinophora Gossypiella) Through Light Trap in Cotton Crop at Tando Allahyar & Matiari District

2025-11-27T15:49:35+00:00

The study was conducted in two districts, Tando Allahyar and Matiari, to monitor the pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) using the light trap technique on cotton crops at the experimental fields of Taluka Jhando Marri, District Tando Allahyar, Sindh. The study was carried out for three months. During the observation period, the pest was monitored through light traps, and results showed that only the Pectinophora gossypiella species was found. The results further revealed the relationship of the pest with different stages of the crop, such as vegetative, flowering, and fruiting stages. In District Tando Allahyar, a greater number of adult moths were captured, particularly during the flowering and fruiting stages of the cotton crop. The catches were recorded as: first fortnight of June (18.62), second fortnight of June (19.50), first fortnight of July (12.50), second fortnight of July (12.37), first fortnight of August (11.37), and second fortnight of August (10.25). The average maximum and minimum temperatures (48˚C and 36˚C) recorded during 2019 at Taluka Jhando Marri indicated that temperature changes affected the prevailing percentage of insects. The pink bollworm showed consistent activity throughout June, with a noticeable peak during mid-month. Similarly, the study conducted at the experimental field of Taluka Hala, District Matiari, showed that adult moths captured through light traps were: first fortnight of June (18.50), second fortnight of June (18.00), first fortnight of July (16.62), second fortnight of July (16.12), first fortnight of August (13.37), and second fortnight of August (12.37). The average maximum and minimum temperatures (48˚C and 30˚C) recorded during 2019 at Taluka Hala indicated that temperature variation affected the pest’s prevalence.

Phytochemical Profiling and Bioactivity of Murraya Koenigii Shoots: Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, and Anticancer Potentials of Solvent Extracts

2025-11-27T15:53:57+00:00

Medicinal plants have long been integral to both traditional and modern medicines because of their wide range of bioactive chemicals. Murraya koenigii (Curry leaf) is also one of these well-known plants and is notable for its therapeutic properties. In the current study, five solvents of varying polarity were used to prepare solvent-specific extracts of M. koenigii shoots to evaluate the effect of the extraction medium on bioactivity. The antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anticancer properties were assessed systematically. Different bioactivity profiles exhibited that the yield and potency of bioactive components are significantly influenced by solvent polarity. Extracts with greater antibacterial activity, antioxidant capacity, and anticancer potential were regularly generated by polar solvents, especially methanol and ethanol. Gallic acid, quercetin, ferulic acid, and sinapic acid were among the rich phenolic profiles assessed by HPLC, and the methanol extract demonstrated the best DPPH radical scavenging activity and total phenolic content. Additionally, ethanol extract demonstrated potent antibacterial and antifungal action, particularly against Candida albicans and Klebsiella pneumoniae. It's interesting to note that, while being typically less active, the non-polar hexane extract exhibited the best ABTS⁺ radical inhibition. This surprising result highlights the selective extraction of non-polar antioxidant chemicals. Methanol extract demonstrated the highest anticancer impact (lowest cell survival at 416 µg/mL), while all extracts showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity against HeLa cancer cells. Overall, these findings showed that the biochemical landscape and bioactivity of M. koenigii extracts are shaped by solvent polarity, underscoring the strategic significance of solvent selection in optimizing therapeutic potential for pharmaceutical and nutraceutical applications.

Exploring Genetic Variation and Quantitative Parameters in Upland Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) by Diallel Analysis

2025-10-29T12:24:19+00:00

The experiment was intended to examine the cross-breeding capacity on yield and fibre characteristics in upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) using diallel analysis. A 4 × 4 diallel analysis of the four cotton varieties, viz., Lalazar, MNH-888, FH-154 and FH-175, was crossbred in the season 2023-24. In 2023-24, the hybrids (12) and their parents were planted in three replicas in an RCBD. The parents raised the crossed material, which was also raised in the experimental field of the Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad. The data was taken using five plants of each line being selected randomly, like plant height, the number of bolls in each plant, number of monopodial branches, number of sympodial branches, seed cotton yield, boll weight, lint index and fibre characteristics, fibre length, fibre strength, and fibre fineness. The results of the data obtained were statistically processed according to the methodology of Hayman and Jinks to determine the character of the action of the genes affecting the nature of the yield and fibre traits. It was found that the fibre length, seed cotton yield and the number of monopodial branches showed partial dominance with additive gene action. Overdominance gene action was found to control plant height, number of bolls per plant, lint index, fibre strength and fibre fineness, whereas the number of sympodial branches and boll weight were found to be under total dominance. There was no epistasis whatsoever.

The Enhancing Floral and Post-harvest Traits in Gladiolus through EMS-Induced Mutagenesis

2025-07-21T16:52:14+00:00

Gladiolus (Gladiolus grandiflora L.) cv. ‘White Prosperity’ is a commercially important cut flower, valued for its glossy white colored spikes and excellent vase life. Among cut flowers, it stands second in ranking after roses, but a narrow genetic base limits its breeding, which creates potential for improving its floral and postharvest characters. This study aimed to induce genetic variation by using different concentrations of chemical mutagen, Ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS) (control, @ 0.25%, @ 0.50%, @ 0.75% and @ 1.00%) for enhancing floral and postharvest attributes. Using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD), significant variations were observed and recorded. The data showed that treatment T1 (0.25 %) showed the overall best results with the longest vase life (12.4 days), good stalk length (43.33 cm), number of florets (7.5), intermediate flower size with length of 5.37 cm and width of 53.56 mm. Also, maintained higher flower quality based on the rubric scoring method. EMS treatment T3 (0.75 %) showed moderate results by delaying senescence (3.79 days) while T4 (1.00 %) enhanced stalk length (43.40 cm) and also promoted earliest spike emergence (118.67 days). However, T3 and T4 negatively affected floret number, flower size and vase life. Overall, low concentration (0.25 %) emerged as most effective for improving both ornamental and postharvest longevity, making it a promising treatment for mutant selection and future gladiolus breeding. This study successfully demonstrates the potential of EMS mutagenesis for enhancing commercially important traits in gladiolus cultivation.

Influence of Gibberellic Acid (GA₃) and Zinc on Growth Dynamics and Yield of Saffron (Crocus Sativus L.)

2025-09-11T19:17:52+00:00

Saffron (Crocus sativus L.) is the world’s most valuable spice, yet its productivity in Pakistan remains low, largely due to inadequate management of PGRs and micronutrients. Despite their recognized role in enhancing crop performance, limited empirical evidence exists on their impact on saffron in Pakistan. Therefore, the present study evaluated the effects of GA₃ and Zn on the growth and yield attributes of saffron. A field experiment was conducted using GA₃ at 0, 50, 100, and 150 ppm and zinc at 0, 0.2, 0.4, and 0.6%, with corms immersed in the respective solutions before planting. Recommended spacing (15 cm × 20 cm) was maintained in 1.0×1.0 m² plots. Growth and yield parameters, including number of corms per mother plant, corm weight per mother plant, leaf length plant^-1, total corm weight plot^-1 and number of flowers, were recorded. The highest number of corms per mother plant (5.8), corm weight (55.5 g), leaf length (16 cm), total corm yield (1558.3 g plot⁻¹) and flowers (56) were obtained with GA₃ application at 150 ppm. Similarly, zinc application up to 0.6% improved corm number (8.8), corm weight (52.8 g), leaf length (18 cm), total corm yield (1603.4 g plot⁻¹) and flowers (58). GA₃ × Zn interactions were non-significant. Optimum levels of GA₃ and Zn were 150 ppm and 0.6% respectively, and significantly showed better performance. Further studies with GA₃ concentrations above 150 ppm are recommended to identify the optimal dose for maximizing yield.

Integrating Ecological Surveillance and Habitat Analysis for Vector Control:

2025-11-03T18:35:08+00:00

Mosquitoes (Culicidae: Diptera) are major vectors causing diseases in humans and animals. This paper evaluated the mosquito diversity, breeding habitat and environmental drivers of five flood-prone districts in Balochistan, which include Quetta, Kech, Panjgur, Gwadar and Lasbella. Sampling was carried out in diverse habitats such as stagnant water, open drains, construction pits, vegetation, junkyards and residential places. The larvae and adults have been preserved in ethanol and distinguished with the help of morphological keys. The water quality parameters, such as pH, electrical conductivity (EC) and dissolved oxygen (DO) measured along with the temperature of each site. A total of 15,349 specimens representing four genera (Culex, Aedes, Anopheles and Armigeres) of mosquitoes were isolated. The indices of diversity showed moderate variation at the genus level with maximum values of Shannon-Wiener in Gwadar City, Paroom and Killi Ismail. Culex prevailed in most of the habitats, and Aedes had a close relation with urban ports full of containers. Significant differences were found among the Aedes and total mosquito populations in the various districts. The correlation analysis showed that EC and mosquito abundance had strong positive correlations, but the temperature had weak negative correlations. The findings show how the water chemistry and urbanization influence the mosquito populations after a flood. Integrated vector management (IVM) must include EC-informed larval control, reduction of containers in urban areas and the use of GIS-based hotspots mapping. The study offers an ecological base of specific interventions and disease prevention that is climate-resilient in Baluchistan.

Invitro Evaluation of Native Herbal Pesticide against Potato Pest (White Grub) Collected From Skardu District

2025-07-22T19:43:44+00:00

Farmers in Gilgit-Baltistan are extensively using pesticides to control white grubs, leading to ecological concerns. Field surveys revealed that amount potato tuber damage varied by locality and variety, with the highest infestation (48%) in a non-registered potato variety at Katpana and the lowest (25%) in the Roko variety grown at Sadpara, Skardu. White grubs, also known as chaffer beetles or May-June beetles, are polyphagous pests that damage a wide range of crops. The present study evaluated the pesticidal effects of ethanol-based extracts from Artemisia sieversiana and Ferula jieschekiana under controlled conditions. Results revealed statistically significant (p≤0.05) among different concentrations of selected species. Bioassays were conducted using three concentrations (1%, 3%, and 5%) of dried plant parts. The highest mortality (90%) was recorded with 5% A. sieversiana after 72 hours, while F. jieschekiana at 5% showed 80% mortality. Repellency tests indicated maximum repellency (50%) in F. jieschekiana after 90 minutes. Pellets made from F. jieschekiana retained shape better and were more effective in repellency after 90 minutes compared to A. sieversiana. Overall, both species showed promising mortality and repellency effects, highlighting their potential as eco-friendly bio-pesticide alternatives to harmful chemical insecticides for sustainable pest management in potato farming.

New Records of Species Genus Ceratina Latreille, 1802 (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Xylocopinae: Ceratinini) from Sindh, Pakistan

2025-09-27T09:58:25+00:00

This paper relates new provincial records of Ceratina hieroglyphica Smith, 1854, and Ceratina smaragdula (Fabricius, 1787) in Sindh, Pakistan. This study addresses a regional knowledge gap, as the Ceratina fauna of Sindh has not been previously documented. Thus enlarging the distribution of Ceratina within the region. Hand-net sampling was done in several habitats around Tandojam and in nearby localities, and specimens were stored in ethanol and later examined morphologically. High-resolution habitus imaging captured characters diagnostic of each species and were compared to a known taxonomic literature, with identifications confirmed using established taxonomic keys. The C. hieroglyphica can be characterized by the dark brown colouring of its body with characteristically distinct yellow markings, as well as by the presence of a triangular clypeal, which is predominantly dark brown with a yellow band, whereas the C. smaragdula has a metallic green exoskeleton with a distinctive yellow clypeal mark. These results present new morphological diagnoses and prove the presence of the two species in Sindh, which is added to regional biodiversity data and can serve as the groundwork for further biographical and ecological studies. Its morphological identification should be supplemented by integrating molecular techniques in future studies in order to exemplify species delimitations. The study contributes to strengthening the native fauna of pollinators from Sindh province and adds verified species of the genus Ceratina, and it will help to understand the agro-ecological zones of Pakistan.

Integrating Pan-Genomics, CRISPR-Cas9, and Predictive Modelling for Next-Generation Alfalfa Cultivar Development

2025-11-02T06:11:36+00:00

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is a perennial forage legume, renowned for its wider adaptability and environmental benefits. However, conventional breeding is stagnant and less adaptive because of its autotetraploid genetic complexity. This paper highlights the significant impact of contemporary breeding technologies on accelerating alfalfa breeding. Also focuses on integrating modern breeding technology with the latest biotechnological innovations to ensure the successful improvement of alfalfa. Additionally, genomic data facilitate the identification of genetic loci associated with important agronomic traits, including biomass yield, fodder quality, and abiotic stress tolerance, through marker-assisted selection (MAS), genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and genomic selection (GS). Additionally, we investigate the use of genome editing, specifically CRISPR/Cas9, for targeted genetic enhancement. Combining multi-omics methodologies. Crucially, we stress the importance of integrating GWAS, high-throughput technologies, and machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to optimize outputs. This paper promotes an innovative, integrated approach to alfalfa breeding that combines predictive modelling, CRISPR-Cas9, and pan-genomics. This pipeline is essential for speeding the development of improved alfalfa to satisfy future agricultural demands by going beyond incremental increases to a systems-level strategy.

Effect of Insecticides on Predatory Efficiency of Coccinella Septempunctata in a Prey Plant System

2025-09-29T16:57:07+00:00

The seven-spot ladybird (Coccinella septempunctata) is a key predator of aphids, whiteflies, leafhoppers, and mealybugs. However, the application of insecticides to control these pests can impair its predatory efficiency. This study evaluated the effects of four insecticides: imidacloprid, pyriproxyfen, abamectin, and acetamiprid on predatory feeding, aphid mortality, and foraging behavior of C. septempunctata in a treated cropping system, using a completely randomized sample contains five-replicate experimental design. The results showed that pyriproxyfen (T2) improved predatory feeding and foraging behavior in both males (26.6%) and females (29.6%), while imidacloprid (T1) resulted in the highest aphid mortality rate (67% in males, 71% in females). Pyriproxyfen also demonstrated superior predator-prey interaction. In contrast, imidacloprid proved most effective at controlling aphids and significantly reduced predation. The researchers found that pyriproxyfen was the most suitable insecticide for increasing the predatory efficiency of C. septempunctata, which exhibited the best performance in feeding and foraging, while imidacloprid resulted in the highest aphid mortality at the expense of predator activity. These results indicate that the compatibility of insecticides with natural predators is an essential aspect to consider for integrated pest management.

Taxonomic Description and Morphological Differentiation of Pallisentis Armatai SP. NOV. (Acanthocephala: Quadrigyridae) from a Freshwater 0528 Host in Sindh, Pakistan

2025-11-09T15:55:56+00:00

The present study describes a new species of acanthocephalan parasite, Pallisentis armatai sp. nov. (Acanthocephala: Quadrigyridae), recovered from the intestine of the freshwater fish Mastacembelus armatus collected from Chotiary Reservoir, Sanghar District, Sindh, Pakistan. Out of fifty examined hosts, seven were found infected, yielding ten adult specimens. An elongated, spinose body characterises the new species; a globular proboscis armed with four circular rows, each bearing sixteen hooks; a short neck; unequal lemnisci; unequal testes with the anterior testis larger than the posterior; cylindrical cement glands; an elongated cement reservoir; a pyriform Saefftigen’s pouch; and a well-developed bursa in males. Females possess thirteen collar spine rows, forty-four trunk spine rows, numerous ovarian balls, and elongated eggs containing fully developed embryos. Detailed morphometric analysis and comparative evaluation with all known congeners reveal distinct differences in proboscis armature, collar and trunk spine arrangement, reproductive structures, and egg dimensions. The combination of these diagnostic features clearly distinguishes Pallisentis armatai sp. nov. from previously described species of the genus, including those reported from Pakistan and neighbouring regions. The present finding also represents a new host record for the genus Pallisentis. This study contributes to the growing knowledge of acanthocephalan diversity in South Asia and emphasises the importance of continued parasitological surveys in freshwater ecosystems.

Prevalence and Risk Factor Analysis of Escherichia Coli–Associated Subclinical Mastitis in Cholistani Cattle

2025-11-08T12:40:26+00:00

Subclinical mastitis is a major constraint to dairy productivity, particularly in indigenous cattle managed under extensive and semi-intensive systems. The present study investigated the prevalence of Escherichia coli–associated subclinical mastitis, evaluated associated risk factors, and determined the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of E. coli isolates in Cholistani cattle from Rahim Yar Khan, Punjab, Pakistan. A total of 385 milk samples were collected from lactating cows during 2023–2024 and screened for subclinical mastitis using the Surf Field Mastitis Test. Samples positive for subclinical mastitis were subjected to bacteriological culture on selective media for isolation and identification of E. coli using morphological and biochemical characteristics. Risk factors related to animal, management, and hygiene practices were analysed using univariate and multivariate logistic regression models. Antimicrobial susceptibility of confirmed E. coli isolates was assessed using the disc diffusion method following CLSI guidelines. The overall prevalence of subclinical mastitis was 48.5%, while E. coli was isolated from 20.3% of subclinical mastitis cases. Significant associations were observed between subclinical mastitis and poor milking hygiene, inadequate milker care, high milk yield, body condition, and grazing type. Fluoroquinolones, including enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin, and norfloxacin, exhibited the highest in-vitro efficacy against E. coli isolates, whereas notable resistance was observed against commonly used antibiotics such as amoxicillin. The findings highlight the epidemiological importance of E. coli in subclinical mastitis and emphasise the need for improved management practices and judicious antimicrobial use to mitigate economic losses and antimicrobial resistance in dairy systems.

Effect of Different Furrow Irrigation Methods on Growth and Productivity of Onion Crop

2025-10-10T11:35:38+00:00

The present study was conducted to investigate the effect of different furrow irrigation techniques on the growth and productivity of the onion crop at Taluka Kotdiji, District Khairpur Mir’s, Sindh, Pakistan. The experiment was conducted in a plot size of 161.5 m². The plot was further divided into 9 subplots, each have size of 12.5m². The treatment was T₁ = Conventional furrow, T₂= Plastic mulched furrow, T₃ = Alternative mulched furrow. The results of water saving showed 20% and 46.67% under T₂ and T₃, respectively. The CWP was 1.13 kg m^-3,1.49 kg m^-3, and 2.94 kg m^-3 under T_1,T₂ and T₃_، respectively. Moreover, the bulb size 4.56 cm, 5.19 cm and 5.58 cm, the biomass was 93.49 kg, 97.96 kg and 103.00 kg, the bulb weight was 70.54 g, 95.76g, and 130.00 g, and the plant height was 39.74 cm, 43.63 cm, and 49.83 cm under T_1,T₂ and T_3, respectively. Furthermore, the yield of onion was16808 kg ha^-1, 17856kg ha^-1and 23488 kg ha^-1, under T_1,T₂ and T₃ respectively. It is concluded that the highest yield was obtained under T₃, as compared to T₁ and T₂. Water saving was highest under T3 as compared with T₁ and T₂. The bulb size, biomass and plant height were higher under T₃ compared with T₁ and T₂. In the present study, T₃ performed better crop water productivity than T₁ and T₂.

Performance of High-Tillering Hybrid Wheat under Climate Stress Conditions in Semi-Arid Environments

2025-12-04T07:54:15+00:00

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) productivity in Pakistan remains constrained by climatic stress, weed pressure, suboptimal seed quality, and stagnating genetic gains. This study evaluated the performance of high-tillering wheat hybrids under climate-challenged conditions while simultaneously assessing weed flora composition, herbicide efficacy, and seed purification strategies in Sindh, Pakistan. Four experimental hybrids (H-101, H-104, H-110, and H-112) were compared with a commercial check (TJ-83) using a randomised complete block design across the rabi season. Key agronomic traits, including tillering capacity, yield components, grain yield, and harvest index, were recorded. Weed surveys identified dominant species and quantified weed pressure, while commonly used herbicides were evaluated for weed control efficiency and yield response. Seed purification was conducted across breeder nucleus, pre-basic, basic, and certified seed generations to assess genetic purity. Significant variation was observed among hybrids, with H-101 exhibiting superior tillering and grain yield compared with the check variety. Weed flora was dominated by Phalaris minor and Avena fatua, accounting for over 70% of total weed density. Herbicide application significantly reduced weed pressure, with clodinafop-propargyl showing the highest weed control efficiency; however, reliance on single modes of action raises concerns about resistance development. Seed purification improved genetic purity to 99.8% at the certified seed stage, meeting international standards. The findings demonstrate that hybrid wheat, when supported by integrated weed management and robust seed systems, can contribute substantially to closing yield gaps under climate stress.

Diversification of Rose-Based Products for Sustainable Income Generation and Rural Entrepreneurship

2025-12-01T19:40:54+00:00

Roses are among the most important aromatic and floricultural crops worldwide, valued not only for their ornamental use but also for their applications in perfumery, cosmetics, food and traditional medicine. This review critically examines value-addition opportunities in roses with special emphasis on Rosa centifolia, a species renowned for its rich aroma and phytochemical composition. The article synthesises global and national trends in rose cultivation and highlights the increasing shift from fresh-flower markets toward processed products that offer higher and more stable economic returns. Major value-added rose products reviewed include essential oils, rose water, dried petals, edible preparations such as gulkand and syrups, as well as medicinal and cosmetic extracts. The review discusses key processing technologies, including steam and hydro-distillation, solvent extraction, drying methods and food-grade preservation techniques, with relevance to small, medium, and large-scale operations. Economic analyses from the literature indicate that processed rose products can significantly outperform fresh flowers in profitability while reducing post-harvest losses and market volatility. The Review article also identifies critical constraints limiting value addition, such as outdated extraction methods, inadequate post-harvest handling, weak supply chains, lack of quality certification and insufficient policy support. Emerging opportunities related to consumer preference for natural and organic products, technological innovation and rural entrepreneurship are highlighted. Overall, the review provides a comprehensive and policy-relevant synthesis, positioning value addition in Rosa centifolia as a viable pathway for income diversification, rural development, and sustainable growth of the floriculture sector.

Integration of Morphological, Protein, and RAPD Markers for Diversity Analysis in Durum Wheat

2025-11-22T09:12:46+00:00

Triticum durum L. (durum wheat), an allotetraploid species, is widely used for producing noodles, macaroni, and pasta at the commercial level. For qualitative and quantitative improvement, it is essential to estimate the extent of genetic variation within this species. The present study aimed to evaluate the genetic diversity in a world collection of T. durum accessions using DNA-based Randomly Amplified Polymorphic DNA (RAPD) markers. A total of 175 accessions were grown in Azad Jammu and Kashmir for morphological characterisation, and 30 genotypes selected randomly were analysed for DNA-based diversity using 40 RAPD primers. RAPD analysis revealed 238 fragments, of which 219 (92.05%) were polymorphic, confirming high genetic variability. Primers GL B-7, B-13, B-17, and D-12 showed the highest polymorphism. Genetic distances among the 30 accessions ranged from 0.00 to 32.0%. The most divergent pair was accession 012967 (population 2) from Azad Kashmir and 013140 (population 21) from Syria, with a genetic distance of 32%. Cluster analysis separated the accessions into two principal groups: the first comprising populations 1 (012966) and 2 (012967), forming a distinct cluster, and the second divided into two subclusters. Overall, the accessions exhibited considerable genetic variability at morphological, seed storage protein, and DNA levels, indicating strong potential for use in breeding programs aimed at developing improved durum wheat varieties to meet the growing industrial demand in Pakistan.

Innovative Coagulation Flocculation Strategies Using Chitosan Based Hybrids for Heavy Metal and Organic Pollutant Removal

2025-12-14T10:04:15+00:00

In Pakistan, municipal and industrial effluents which have a high concentration of organic pollutants and heavy metals like lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) have become a menace to the freshwater resources in the country. The paper compared the performance of chitosan, polyacrylamide (PAM) and sodium alginate as an individual and combination of 25 and 50 mg L^-1 in removing the BOD, COD, turbidity, TDS, electrical conductivity (EC) and heavy metals in sewage wastewater in Quetta. Jar tests were performed in controlled conditions (pH 5, 30 °C, rapid mixing of 15 min at 250 rpm, slow mixing of 30 min at 50 rpm and 1h settling). Application of chitosan as a single polymer showed the highest efficiencies with a maximum reduction of 86% BOD, 78.9% COD, 66% Cd removal, 73.5% Pb removal and 44.75% TDS reduction at 50 mg L^-1 and combined polymer showed even better removal efficiencies with the PAM50+Chit50 combination achieving 98.13% BOD, 91.1% COD, 98.4% turbidity 91%. The complementary actions are the reason of better performance of combined treatments, chitosan neutralizes the charges, binds the metal, stabilizes the flocs, PAM increases polymer bridging and aggregates the particles. The removal of heavy metals was always greater with Pb compared to Cd as a result of chitosan affinity to Pb 93.99%. An increase in polymer dose enhanced the removal without destabilizing flocs which is a sign that the treatment conditions were optimal. These findings substantiate that biopolymer engineered hybrid systems especially chitosan PAM and chitosan alginate hybrids are a sustainable, biodegradable and economical method of municipal wastewater treatment which will serve as an effective technology to enhance the quality of water in the growing cities.

Micropropagation and callus induction in pureline cultivars of tomato (solanum lycopersicum l.)

2025-12-08T08:57:28+00:00

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a significant vegetable crop as it has both nutritional and economic importance on a global scale. Tomato breeding programs must be able to multiply and improve genetically and through biotechnology through efficient systems of in vitro regeneration. The present study aimed to streamline micropropagation and callus induction procedures with two pure-line tomatoes (BL-1174 and Tinto) with varying auxins and cytokinin combinations. The study involved two experiments that were designed using a completely randomized design (CRD): one was aimed at testing the regeneration of shoots and roots in an experiment using nodal explants, and the other aimed at callus induction with leaf disc explants. Regeneration was undertaken in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with different concentration levels of 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), whereas 2,4-D and BAP were used in callogenesis. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used in data analysis, and the means of treatment were compared with the help of the Tukey HSD test. Treatments and genotypes had significant differences in all the parameters that were evaluated. Tinto pure line had better in vitro performance with the highest induction of shoot (74.3%), shoot length (2.7 cm), root induction (71.7%), number of leaves and roots per explant, survival percentage (68%), and callus induction (90) with increased concentration of BAP and IBA. Internodal distance was found to be relatively higher in BL-1174, and the total regeneration efficiency was lower. The modified hormonal ratios exhibited high genotype responses, as Tinto was more responsive to in vitro regeneration and formation of callus. The protocol developed is a reliable and reproducible system to consider large-scale micropropagation and as a basis for genetic transformation, mutation breeding, and other high biological applications of tomato.

Estimation of Heterosis and Combining Ability in Different Sunflower Genotypes Using Line × Tester Analysis

2025-09-12T13:03:31+00:00

One important oilseed crop that could help with the scarcity of edible oil is the sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.). This study used a Line × Tester mating design to assess sunflower heterosis and combining ability. Twelve F₁ hybrids were created by crossing four elite inbred lines (HZ-6, HZ-7, HZ-8, and HZ-9) with three testers (PBG-1, PBG-2, and PBG-3). In two seasons (fall 2023 and spring 2024), the parents and hybrids were cultivated using a randomized complete block design with three replications. Plant height, number of leaves per plant, leaf area, internodal length, stem diameter, head diameter, seed yield per head, and 100-seed weight were the eight yield-related characteristics for which data were collected. Significant genetic differences between genotypes for every trait were found by analysis of variance. According to line × tester analysis, non-additive (dominant) gene action predominated for the majority of traits, with specific combining ability (SCA) variance exceeding general combining ability (GCA) variance. Strong GCA effects were seen for important traits (e.g. internodal length, head diameter, seed yield) in the parental lines HZ-6 and HZ-9. Combinations like HZ-6 × PBG-3 and HZ-8 × PBG-1 performed better than other hybrids; HZ-6 × PBG-3 was superior in terms of stem diameter and leaf area, while HZ-8 × PBG-1 was superior in terms of plant height and 100-seed weight. Several traits (most notably head diameter and seed yield) showed positive mid-parent and better-parent heterosis, whereas traits such as internode length, stem diameter, and seed weight showed negative heterosis. These findings imply that sunflower breeding can benefit from hybrid vigour. The high-GCA parents and high-SCA hybrids that have been identified provide useful breeding material for creating improved sunflower cultivars that may increase yield and help lessen the edible oil deficit.

Integrated Effects of Tillage and Sunflower–Mung Bean Intercropping on Weed Management and Productivity

2025-10-21T09:50:56+00:00

This study aimed to evaluate the integrated effects of tillage practices and sunflower–mung bean intercropping on weed suppression, crop productivity, and land-use efficiency in a semi-arid environment. A field experiment was conducted at Faisalabad using two tillage systems (deep tillage and conventional tillage) combined with sole sunflower and sunflower–mung bean intercropping arrangements. Weed density and weed dry biomass were recorded at different crop growth stages, while yield attributes of sunflower and mung bean, along with land equivalent ratio (LER), were used to assess system productivity. Results showed that deep tillage significantly reduced weed density (23.4 plants m⁻²) and weed dry biomass (118.6 g m⁻²) compared with conventional tillage (31.7 plants m⁻² and 156.8 g m⁻², respectively). Intercropping sunflower with mung bean further enhanced weed suppression, lowering weed density to 21.8 plants m⁻² and weed dry biomass to 110.4 g m⁻² compared with sole sunflower. The combined effect of deep tillage and sunflower–mung bean intercropping produced the highest sunflower seed yield (3.28 t ha⁻¹), representing a 27% increase over sole sunflower under conventional tillage (2.58 t ha⁻¹). Although the sole sunflower produced a higher individual crop yield, intercropping systems demonstrated superior overall productivity. The sunflower–mung bean intercropping system with double-row sunflower at 90 cm spacing and three rows of mung bean achieved the highest land-use efficiency (LER = 1.68), followed by sunflower at 60 cm intercropped with two rows of mung bean (LER = 1.66). Overall, the study demonstrates that integrating deep tillage with sunflower–mung bean intercropping is a sustainable agronomic strategy that enhances weed suppression, improves land productivity, and reduces reliance on chemical weed control.