Volume 1, Issue 1 (2014) Tropical Plant Research

ISSN: 2349 1183
1(1): 0103, 2014
Research article
Some new additions to the lichen family Roccellaceae

(Arthoniales) from India
A. R. Logesh, Santosh Joshi, Komal K. Ingle and Dalip K. Upreti*
Lichenology laboratory, Plant Diversity Systematics and Herbarium Division, CSIR-National Botanical
Research Institute, Rana Pratap Marg, Lucknow-226001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
*Corresponding Author: upretidk@rediffmail.com [Accepted: 15 March 2014]
Abstract: Three species of crustose lichens (Bactrospora acicularis, B. intermedia and Sigridea
chloroleuca) belonging to the family Roccellaceae are reported here as new records for India. The
taxonomic characters of each species were described briefly and supported by ecology, distribution
and illustrations.
Keywords: Lichens - New records - Eastern Himalayas - Southern India.
[Cite as: Logesh AR, Joshi S, Ingle KK & Upreti DK (2014) Some new additions to the lichen family
Rocellaceae (Arthoniales) from India. Tropical Plant Research 1(1): 13]
INTRODUCTION
The genus Bactrospora A. Massal. was revised by Egea & Torrente (1993) and represented by 20 species
and one variety, among them four were previously reported from India Bactrospora jenikii (Vzda) Egea &
Torrente, B. lamprospora (Nyl.) Lendemer, B. metabola (Nyl.) Egea & Torrente, B. myriadea (Fe) Egea &
Torrente (Singh & Sinha 2010). The genus Bactrospora differs from similar genera Lecanactis and Opegrapha
by lecideine ascomata, dark proper exciple and elongate, transversely septate, fragmenting ascospores (Ponzetti
& McCune 2006). The allopatric genus Sigridea was monographed by Tehler (1993) with four species world-
wide. In India Nylander (1867) recorded single species of Sigridea as Platygrapha galucomoides Nyl. which is
now known as Sigridea glaucomoides (Nyl.) Tehler. Sigridea species are recognized by white thallus, circular
ascomata, well developed thalline margin, hyaline, 3-septate, curved ascospores with one end tapering and the
presence of psoromic acid. The closely related genus Schismatomma differs in having endophloeodal to
incoherently organized thallus, poorly developed thalline margin, elongate ascomata and chemistry with
roccellic acid (Tehler 1993).
In the present study four species, Bactrospora acicularis, B. intermedia and Sigridea chloroleuca are
described as new records for the country that were collected from Eastern Himalayas and Southern India.
MATERIALS AND METHODS

The investigation is based on the recent lichen collections from dry deciduous forests of Southern India for
lichen collection and the material preserved in the herbarium of the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute,
Lucknow (LWG). Morphological examination of the samples was carried out using LeicaTM S8APO stereo-
zoom microscope and anatomy was observed with hand cut sections mounted in distilled water, 5% potassium
hydroxide solution (KOH) and 1% Lugols solution under LeicaTM DM500 compound microscope. Thin Layer
Chromatographic analysis (TLC) was carried out in solvent system-A following the method of Walker & James
(1980).
NEW RECORDS
1. Bactrospora acicularis (Dodge) Egea & Torrente, Lichenologist 25(3): 211255, 1993. (Fig. 1A)
Lecanactis acicularis Dodge, Nova Hedwigia 16: 488, 1969.
Thallus crustose, epiphloedal, continuous and cracked, areolate, thin. Ascomata sessile, round shaped, 0.4
1.0 mm diam., black, epruinose, smooth. Exciple brownish to black. Hymenium I+ blue. Paraphyses branched
and anastamosing. Asci 80120 912 m. Ascospores Patellarioides type, 6080 1.53 m, 1519 septate.
Chemistry: K-, C-, P-, KC-. No chemical substances detected in TLC.
Ecology and Distribution: This species was previously known from two different localities in Chile (Egea &
www.tropicalplantresearch.com 1
Received: 01 February 2014 Published online: 30 April 2014
Logesh et al. (2014) 1(1): 0103
.
Figure 1. Habit: A, Bactrospora acicularis; B, Bactrospora intermedia; C, Sigridea chloroleuca. Scale bars = 2 mm
(A,C); 1 mm (B).
Logesh et al. (2014) 1(1): 0103
.
Torrente 1993), is a new record for India found growing on tree in Tiger hill area of Darjeeling district in
Eastern Himalayas.
Specimen examined: India, West Bengal, Darjeeling district, Tiger Hill, north face of the hill, alt. 2550 m,
1967, D.D. Awasthi & M.R. Agarwal 677 (LWG-LWU).
2. Bactrospora intermedia Egea & Torrente, Lichenologist 25(3): 211255, 1993. (Fig. 1B)
Thallus crustose, corticolous, distinctly brown to black, thin. Ascomata scattered, submerged in the thallus,
round shaped, black in colour, 0.40.6 mm diam., lacking margin, disc convex. Hymenium I+ reddish.
Subhymenium brown, I+ red turning into bluish. Paraphysoids branching and anastomosing. Asci 100120
1015 m. Patellarioides-type ascospores, 90110 24 m, transversely 2328 septate.
Chemistry: K-, C-, P-, KC-. No lichen substances detected in TLC.
Ecology and Distribution: Earlier this species is known only from its type locality in Chile (Egea & Torrente,
1993), is a new record for India found growing on the barks of Vetaria sp.
Specimen Examined: India, Kerala, Malapuram district, Valli Kunnu, 1975, A Singh & M Ranjan 102338
(LWG).
3. Sigridea chloroleuca (Mull. Arg.) Tehler, Nova Hedwigia 57 (34): 428 (1993). (Fig. 1C)
Platygrapha chloroleuca Mll. Arg., Flora 63: 275-290 (1880).
Schismatomma chloroleucum (Mll. Arg.) Zahlbr., Gebrder Borntraeger 554, 1924.
Thallus ecorticated, cracked, smooth to verruculose, whitish to grey. Ascomata sessile, rarely constricted at
base, round to irregular, younger apothecia immersed to emergent, apothecial disc grey to brown, white
pruinose, margin thin, paler than the disc and thallus, getting thinner or excluded at maturity apothecia, 0.51.5
mm in diam. Exciple brown, 3035 m thick. Hypothecium brown to dark brown, I/KI-. Hymenium hyaline to
yellowish, clear, I+, KI+ pale blue. Paraphyses branched, articulate, anastomosing, tip slightly swollen. Asci
clavate-cylindrical, 8-spored, 6080 1015 m. Ascospores fusiform, transversely 37 septate, straight to
slightly curved, 22.927.8 3.25.3 m.
Chemistry: K-, P+ golden yellow, C-, KC-. Psoromic acid and pinkish grey spot with hollow at Rf class 3
detected in TLC.
Ecology and Distribution: This species was found growing over the Ficus trees at the dry deciduous forests of
southern India. Earlier it was only known from Venezuela found growing on the barks of different trees in dry
forests (Tehler 1993).
Specimen examined: India, Tamil Nadu, Salem District, Palamalai Hills, 1 km towards Kemmampatty
village, 700 m alt. on Ficus sp., 13.02.2012, AR Logesh, KK Ingle & P Shukla 12-016466 (LWG).
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Authors are thankful to the Director, CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, Lucknow for providing
necessary facilities to carry out the work and Department of Biotechnology, New Delhi
(BT/PR1457/NBD/39/204/2011) for financial support.
REFERENCES
Egea JM & Torrente P (1993) The lichen genus Bactrospora. The Lichenologist 25: 211255.
Nylander W (1867) Lichenes Kurziani e Calcutta. Flora. 50: 39.
Ponzetti J & Mc Cune B (2006) A new species of Bactrospora from northwestern North America. Bryologist
109: 8588.
Singh KP & Sinha GP (2010) Indian Lichens: Annotated Checklist. Botanical Survey of India, Kolkata, India,
pp. 508.
Tehler A (1993) The genus Sigridea (Roccellaceae, Arthoniales, Euascomycetidae). Nova Hedwigia 57(34):
417435.
Walker FJ & James PW (1980) A revised guide to the microchemical technique for the identification of lichen
products. Bulletin of British Lichenological Society 46: 1329.
ISSN: 2349 1183
1(1): 0407, 2014
Research article
Ectohydric moss, Thuidium tamariscellum, monitors atmospheric

Lead (Pb) pollution in Baguio City, Philippines
Madison P. Munar*, Ralph Robie B. Oreiro and Roland M. Hipol
Department of Biology, College of Science, University of the Philippines Baguio,
Governor Pack Road,2600 Baguio City, Benguet, Philippines
*Corresponding Author: madzpm23@yahoo.com [Accepted: 25 March 2014]
Abstract: This is the first study in the Philippines which adopted the standard moss monitoring
procedure to address Lead (Pb) contamination in the ambient air of Baguio City. Pb is considered
as one of the seven criteria pollutants by United States Environmental Protection Agency. Analysis
of exposed moss tissues was performed using Flame-Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry by
Baguio Water District. There is high metal loading observed on the tissues of Thuidium
tamariscellum (Mll. Hal.) Bosch & Sande Lac. after exposure along and in between major road
intersections in the city.There is no significant variation in Pb concentration in the exposed moss
as revealed by One-Way Analysis of Variance. This study reports the presence of Pb in the
ambient air of Baguio City and the lack of monitoring is harmful to people and environment.
Nevertheless, this study offers cost-effective air monitoring method that can be adopted in cities as
newer available technology.
Keywords: Air pollutants - Flame-Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) - Heavy metal -
Ectohydric moss - Lead (Pb) - Thuidium tamariscellum (Mll. Hal.) Bosch & Sande Lac.
[Cite as: Munar MP, Oreiro RRB & Hipol RM (2014) Ectohydric moss, Thuidium tamariscellum (Mll. Hal.)
Bosch & Sande Lac. to monitor atmospheric Lead (Pb) pollution in Baguio city, Philippines. Tropical Plant
Research 1(1): 47]
INTRODUCTION
Standard German Moss Monitoring Procedure was put in place to determine the quality of air and as basis in
drafting laws on air quality standards in European countries (Martin & Coughtrey 1982, Fernandez &
Carballeira 2000, Schilling & Lehman 2001). According to Yunus et al. (1996), current metal fluxes from the
atmosphere to the biosphere are significantly increased as a product of various anthropogenic inputs such as,
combustion of fossil fuels, agricultural dust, and metallurgy. Thuidium B.S.G. is genus of ectohydric mosses
which belong to the group of Subclass Bryidae - the jointed toothed mosses (Schofield 1985). The properties
of T. tamariscellum (Mll. Hal.) Bosch & Sande Lac. such as the absence of cuticle, high surface area to volume
ratio and absence of stomata make it a good candidate for monitoring air pollutants. Mosses draw negligible
amounts of water and minerals from the soil and rely mostly on the input of atmospheric nutrients by wet and
dry deposition (Schilling & Lehman 2001). Mosses have high cation exchange capacity (CEC) making them
efficient hyperaccumulators of metals present in the atmosphere. They also lack well developed vascular tissue
so that there is minimal translocation of the bioaccumulated metals in its tissues (Ruhling & Tyler 1968).The
main objective of this study is to evaluate the dry-deposition of Pb, one of the hazardous criteria pollutants as
indicated by the National Ambient Air Guideline System of the Philippine Clean Air Act (RA 8749) in the
tissues of bioindicator organism, T. tamariscellum, exposed along and in between major road intersections in
Baguio City.

Moss Collection and Exposure
Mosses were collected in Busol Watershed at Barangay Aurora Hill, Baguio City. Disposable latex gloves
were worn during the collection and the mosses were placed in a zip lock plastic bag. Professor Roland Hipol of
the University of the Philippines Baguio identified the moss as T. tamariscellum (Mll. Hal.) Bosch & Sande
Lac. (Fig. 1A,B).
Munar et al. (2014) 1(1): 0407
.
Figure 1. Thuidium tamariscellum; A, with numerous papillose cells; B, viewed under H.P.O, 400x; CD, Actual
specimen exposed along and in between road intersections in Baguio City.
The moss samples with equal dry weights of five grams were transplanted in polyethylene bags. Replicates
of moss bags were installed at a height of at least two meters from the ground. Moss bags were installed along
and in between major road intersections in Baguio City (Fig. 1C,D). The moss bags were exposed for a period
of about three months or 12 weeks.
Acid digestion of exposed moss tissues
After the exposure period of 12 weeks, the moss bags were collected with disposable latex gloves and were
placed in zip lock plastic bags. The samples were oven-dried for 24 hours, and crushed using mortar and pestle.
The crushed samples were subjected to a mixture of concentrated HNO3 and HClO4 (4:1 v/v), and boiled in 250
ml beaker at 130C until the organic material is oxidized and the solution is evaporated to dryness. The pellets
were dissolved in HNO3 and demineralized H2O (1:4 v/v) and stored in 250 ml Erlenmeyer flask (Folkeson
1979).
Heavy Metal Analysis
Heavy metal analysis was done as described in the protocol of Environmental Management Bureau-
Cordillera Administrative Region (EMB-CAR). One hundred ml of acid preserved sample was transferred into
Munar et al. (2014) 1(1): 0407
.
clean 150 ml beaker. Three ml of concentrated nitric acid was added slowly. The beaker was placed on a hot
plate, and the sample was evaporated to less than five ml. The sample was not allowed to boil and that no area at
the bottom of the beaker was allowed to go dry. The sample was cooled. Another three ml concentrated nitric
acid was added; the beaker was covered with watch glass and returned to the hotplate. The temperature of the
hotplate was increased so that a gentle reflux action occurs. Heating is continued and acid was added as
necessary until digestion is completed (indicated by a light colored residue). A 1:1 HCl (about five ml) was
added and heated for 15 minutes to dissolve any residue. The beaker and watch glass was rinsed with distilled
water and filtered to remove insoluble materials. The final volume was adjusted to 100 ml with distilled water.
The digested samples were submitted to the Baguio Water District (BWD) for the aspiration process. The
samples were examined using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS).
Data Analysis
Lead concentration before and after exposure were statistically analyzed using T-test (one-tail right test) to
determine whether there is an observable increase in the concentration of Pb in the tissues of exposed mosses.
One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was used to determine whether there is a significant variation on the
bioaccumulated heavy metals on the different exposure sites.
Table 1. Intersite comparison of dry-deposition of Pb.
Exposure Site* Conc. of dry-deposited Difference between before and after Heavy Metal Loading
3 3
Pb (g.m ) exposure conc. of Pb (g.m ) (%)
Before exposure 0.21 - -
1 2.14 1.93 90.2
2 1.94 1.73 89.2
3 2.36 2.15 91.1
4 2.26 2.05 90.7
5 1.88 1.67 88.8
*The five exposure sites includes the (1) Intersection of Magsaysay Road and Session Road where the
Continuous Automatic Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System of EMB-CAR is located, (2) Intersection at the
upper Session Road, (3) Intersection at Quirino Highway (Bokawkan-Naguillian), (4) Intersection at the Baguio
Center Mall and Magsaysay Road, (5) Harrison Road and Governor Pack Road Intersection.
RESULT
The difference between Pb concentration before and after exposure was presented in table 1.One-tailed T-
test at 5% level of significance showed that the Pb concentration in the five sites after exposure is greater than
the concentration before exposure.
DISCUSSION
Evaluation of T. tamariscellum
The availability and abundance of T. tamariscellum in Baguio City is the main reason why it was used in the
study. The initial concentration of Pb (0.21 g.m3) measured in the control sample is associated by the leaching
process from the Pinus canopy where the moss samples were collected (Schilling & Lehman 2001). As observed
in the high metal loading (8891%) in the tissues of T. tamariscellum, the efficiency of these organisms to
hyperaccumulate metal present in the air as reported in earlier studies is strongly supported (Schilling &
Lehman 2001).
Analysis of Pb dry-deposition
The standard tolerable limit of Pb in the ambient air set by the National Ambient Air Guideline System
(NAAGS) of the Philippine Clean Air Act (RA 8749) and National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
set by US EPA is 1.5 g.m3 per three months exposure period. The data showed that the dry-deposited Pb in the
exposed samples exceeds the standard tolerable limit. In the Intersection of Magsaysay Road and Session Road
where the monitoring station of EMB-CAR is located, the level of Pb is about 2.14 g.m3. This concentration
exceeds the tolerable limit in the ambient air as indicated by NAAGS and NAAQS. The Continuous Ambient
Air Monitoring Station in Baguio city only measures sulfur dioxide, ozone and toluene. This monitoring station
does not measure Pb which is one of the criteria pollutants along with ozone (O 3), carbon monoxide (CO),
nitrogen dioxide (NO2), sulfur dioxide (SO2), total suspended particles, photochemical oxidants. Pb is largely
Munar et al. (2014) 1(1): 0407
.
contributed by the combustion of fossil fuels and exposure to this toxic gas is detrimental to the health of young
children (US EPA).
CONCLUSION
The use of T. tamariscellum in determining the dry-deposition of Pb offers inter-site comparison of heavy
metal contamination in different road intersections in Baguio City. This study revealed that there is aggravation
of Pb level from the tolerable limit set by US EPA and this is attributed to the growing number of vehicles in the
city. The assumption that Pb is not to be found in the ambient air by merely banning the use of leaded gasoline
poses more harm than good. Nevertheless, the use of T. tamariscellum was observed to be effective
bioaccumulator of heavy metal such as Pb as observed on the high metal loading after exposure. The use of
moss to monitor air quality offers cost-effective and allows inter-site comparison of air pollution scenario which
cannot be done with a single monitoring station.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special thanks to Dr. Elsie Jimenez of the University of the Philippines Baguio for her encouragement and
inputs in synthesizing this paper. High gratitude is extended to Baguio Water District for the analysis of our
samples. The authors expressed no conflict of interest.
REFERENCES
Fernandez JA, Raboal J & Carballeira (2000) Use of native and transplanted mosses as complementary
techniques for bio-monitoring mercury around an industrial facility. The science of the total environment.
Santiago de Compostela, Spain 256: 151161.
Folkeson L (1979) Interspecies calibration of Heavy metal concentrations in nine mosses and lichens:
Applicability to deposition measurements. Water, Air, and Soil Pollution 11: 253260.
Martin MH & Coughtrey PJ (1982) Biological Monitoring of Heavy Metal Pollution. Applied Science
Publishers, London, p. 475.
Ruhling A & Tyler G (1968) An ecological approach to the lead problem. Botaniska Notiser 122: 248342.
Schilling JS & Lehman ME (2001) Bioindication of atmospheric heavy metal deposition in the Southeastern US
using the moss Thuidium delicatulum. Natural Sciences Department-Longwood College, Fermville, U.S.A.,
36: 16111618.
Schofield WR (1985) Introduction to Bryology. Macmillan. Macmillan Publishing Co., New York.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (1999) Integrated Risk Information System, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS) on Lead and Compounds (Inorganic).
National Center for Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, Washington,
DC. Available from: http://www.epa.gov/iris/subst/0277.htm (accessed: 5 Feb. 2008).
Yunus M, Singh N & Iqbal M (1996) Global status of air pollution: an overview. In: Yunus M & Iqbal M (eds)
Plant responses to air pollution: Wiley, Chichester, UK.
ISSN: 2349 1183
1(1): 0813, 2014
Research article
Moss flora of Mount Abu (Rajasthan), India:

An updated checklist
Afroz Alam*, Saumya Pandey, Vanshika Singh, Shiv Charan Sharma and Vinay Sharma
Department of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Banasthali University, Rajasthan-304022, India

*Corresponding Author: afrozalamsafvi@gmail.com [Accepted: 24 March 2014]
Abstract: Mount Abu is an ignored mountain range to some extent by Indian bryologists. Very
little information is available regarding bryoflora of this mountain range. In present study an
attempt has been made to provide an updated checklist of moss flora of the region. The study is
based on previous as well as newly collected moss taxa from the region. The new addition to the
region include Anoectangium clarum, Brachymenium indicum, Bryum uliginosum, Entodon
plicatus, Entodon concinnus, Fissidens sylvaticus var. taraicola, Fissidens sylvaticus var.
auriculatus, Hyophila spathulata, Plagiothecium cavifolium and Stereophyllum tavoyense.
Keywords: Bryophytes - Musci - Mount Abu - Rajasthan.
[Cite as: Alam A, Pandey S, Singh V, Sharma SC & Sharma V (2014) Moss flora of Mount Abu (Rajasthan),
India: An updated checklist. Tropical Plant Research 1(1): 813]
INTRODUCTION
Mount Abu (72.7083E 24.5925N), the famous hill
station in Rajasthan, is the highest elevated topography
between Nilgiris and Himalayas. An isolated elevation
of Aravalli ranges, Mt. Abu is situated in Sirohi district
of Rajasthan bordering Gujarat (Fig. 1). With average
height of 1400 m, the highest peak in Mt. Abu is Guru
Shikhar (1722 m) (Bapna & Vyas 1962). Various
rivers, lakes and, waterfalls originate from Mt. Abu,
and general vegetation is evergreen forests, therefore
the region is referred to as 'A heaven in the desert'. Mt.
Abu mountain range is also famous for several ancient
Hindu temples (e.g. Shri Raghunathji Temple, Adhar
Devi temple, Dattatreya and famous Jain temples -
Figure 1. Map of Rajasthan showing location of study area. Dilwara temples).
Climate of the region is usually dry like that of major regions of Rajasthan, in greater part of the year, but the
temperature is always 1015C lower than the adjacent lowlands. Summer season prevails from mid of April to
mid of June with average maximum temperature of around 36C. The hottest month is May (32C) and coolest
is January (17C). The region receives sufficient rains during the monsoons due to its relief and geographical
settings. The annual rainfall is about 1778 mm. The annual mean humidity is 64%, reaches to maximum (99%)
during monsoon. Winters are cool in Mt. Abu with mercury fluctuating around 16C to 22C. Average night
temperature is around 4 to 12C. Often night are chilling with the temperature dipping to as low as -2C to -3C
during winters.
The soil is somewhat calcareous in texture with sufficient amount of Calcium carbonate, Potassium,
phosphates and nitrates. Soil water content ranges from 22% to 30%. Soil pH ranges from 7.5 to 8, revealing
alkaline nature (Bapna & Vyas 1962). Overall, the macro and microhabitats of Mt. Abu are suitable for the
abundant growth of bryophytes. Bryofloristically Mount Abu is the richest place in Rajasthan with maximum
diversification of corticolous as well as terricolous forms (Fig. 2).
Alam et al. (2014) 1(1): 0813
.
A B
C D
E F
Figure 2. AD, Different locations of Mount Abu (Rajasthan) at a glance; EF, Collection of corticolous and terricolous
mosses.
There are few reports available regarding floristic work in Mount Abu like Macdam (1890); King (1879);
Champion (1937); Mahabale & Kharadi (1946) but all were related to spermatophyte. Bryologists of the country
generally overlooked the exploration of this place for various reasons. As a consequence in earlier bryological
works by Mitten (1859), Stephani (19011924) and Chopra (1938, 1943) there was no record of bryophytes.
Later on Kashyap (1929, 1932) mentioned the presence of Plagiochasma appendiculatum and Cyathodium
tuberosum. In 1945, Chavan & Mahabale noticed Riccia discolor and Asterella angusta beside Plagiochasma
appendiculatum, however, they were dealing with hepatics of Gujarat mainly. While Mahabale & Kharadi
(1946) mentioned the occurrence of Riccia discolor and Plagiochasma appendiculatum during ecological study
of area. The first serious attempt was made by Bapna (1958) when he reported 24 species from Mount Abu.
Afterward, Bapna & Vyas (1962) published a preliminary account about the liverworts of Mount Abu and
Alam et al. (2014) 1(1): 0813
.
extended the list up to 28 taxa of liverworts and hornworts. This account is probably the only authentic record
available so far as far as liverworts are concerned. Regarding mosses only few sporadic reports had been
published with limited circulation and remain less known (Choudhary & Deora 2001).
This study is an effort has made to fill this lacuna. The study reveals the complete and updated status of
mosses of this region. The earlier reported number of species (Bapna 1958, Bapna & Vyas 1962, Lal 2005) have
also included along with newly reported taxa.

The following checklist of mosses is based on moss specimens collected from different localities of Mount
Abu during 20121013. The identification of taxa was done with the help of Gangulee (19691980). Earlier
reported taxa are also included with their current status. All species listed in the literature were checked against
the TROPICOS database (at the Missouri Botanical Garden). Present status is adopted from The Plant List and
taxa are listed according to the classification scheme of Buck & Goffinet (2000). The distribution of listed taxa
in India is also given (Appendix I). The collected specimens are preserved and deposited in the Banasthali
Vidyapith Herbarium (BVH), Tonk Rajasthan.
RESULTS
The present checklist of moss flora of Mt. Abu revealed the occurrence of 46 species of mosses which are
belonging to 5 orders; 12 families and 30 genera. Out of these 44 retained their valid status, while 2 previously
reported species come under the doubtful category i.e. unresolved name. Whereas, Anoectangium clarum,
Brachymenium indicum, Bryum uliginosum, Entodon plicatus, Entodon concinnus, Fissidens sylvaticus var.
taraicola, Fissidens sylvaticus var. auriculatus, Hyophila spathulata, Plagiothecium cavifolium and
Stereophyllum tavoyense have been reported new from the region. This great diversity of mosses in this range
confirms the potential of Mt. Abu in terms of bryodiversity particularly of mosses. Hence more explorations are
required to this hilly range of Aravalli.
DISCUSSION
The checklist of mosses of these regions reveals that in terms of taxa the most diversified order is Pottiales
with 1 family, 11 genera and 14 species. This is followed by order Bryales (2 families, 6 genera and 12 species)
then comes order Hypnales (6 families, 8 genera and 11 species), followed by Dicranales (2 families, 2 genera
and 6 species) and the least represented order is Funariales (1 family, 3 genera and 3 species). Overall, the most
prominent family is Pottiaceae consisting of 11 genera with 14 species. Genera like Bryum, Fissidens and
Brachymenium are most diversified while 16 genera are representation with a single species only.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors are grateful to Prof. Aditya Shastri, Vice Chancellor, Banasthali University, Rajasthan for his
encouragement and support.
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Buck WR & Goffinet B (2000) Morphology and classification of mosses. In: Shaw AJ & Goffinet B (eds)
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Champion HG (1937) A preliminary survey of the forest types of India and Burma. Indian Forster 1: 1286.
Chaudhary BL & Deora GS (2001) The mosses of Mt. Abu (India). In: Nath V & Asthana AK (eds)
Perspectives in Indian bryology. Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal Singh, Dehra Dun, India, pp. 87125.
Chavan AR & Mahabale TS (1945) Distribution of liverworts in Gujrat. Proceeding 32nd Indian Science
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Chopra RS (1938) Notes on Indian Hepaticae. I. South India. Proceeding Indian Academy of Science ser. B 7:
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Chopra RS (1943) A census of Indian hepatics. Journal of Indian Botanical Society 12: 3562.
Gangulee HC (19691980) Mosses of Eastern India and Adjacent regions. Fascicles, Books and Allied Limited,
Calcutta, pp. 18.
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Kashyap SR (1932) Liverworts of the W. Himalayas and the Punjab Plain, Part 2. Lahore.
Kashyap SR (1929) Liverworts of the W. Himalayas and the Punjab Plain, part 1. Lahore.
King G (1879) The sketch of the flora of Rajputana. Indian Forster 72: 213225.
Lal J (2005) A checklist of Indian Mosses. Bishen Singh Mahendra Pal Singh. Dehra Dun, India. pp. 1164.
Mahabale & Kharadi (1946) On some ecological features of the vegetation of Mt. Abu. Proceeding National
Academy of Science 116: 1323.
Mahabale TS & Chavan AR (1954) The distribution of liverworts in Gujarat. J. M. S. Univ. Baroda II (2): 13
16.
Mcadam (1890) A list of trees and plants of Mount Abu. Jodhpur. pp. 128.
Mitten W (1859) Musci Indiae Orientalis. Linn. Soc. Bot. Suppl. 1: 171.
Stephani F (19011905) Species Hepaticarum 2: 1615 (1901: 1193; 1902: 194341; 1903: 342452; 1904:
453502; 1905: 503615) Geneve.
Stephani F (19171924) Species Hepaticarum 6: 1763 (1917: 1128; 1918: 129176; 1921: 177240; 1922
241368; 1923: 369432; 1924: 433763). Geneve.
Appendix - I
Mount Western Eastern South
Name of Species Status
Abu Himalayas Himalayas India
A. ORDER: POTTIALES M. Fleisch.
1. FAMILY: Pottiaceae Schimp.
i. Anoectangium Schwgr.
Accepted
1. A. stracheyamum Mitt. + + + +
(Choudhary & Deora 2001)
Accepted
2. A. clarum Mitt. + + + -
(New reported)
ii. Barbula Hedw.
Accepted
3. B. constricta Mitt. + + + -
iii. Bryoerythrophyllum P. C. Chen
Accepted
4. B. recurvirostrum (Hedw.) P. C. Chen + + + -
iv. Didymodon Hedw.
5. Didymodon vinealis (Brid.) R. H. Zander Accepted
+ + + -
Syn. Barbula vinealis Brid. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
v. Gymnostomiella M. Fleisch.
6. G. vernicosa (Hook. ex Harv.) M. Accepted
+ + + +
Fleisch (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
vi. Hydrogonium (Mll. Hal.) A. Jaeger.
Accepted
7. H. arcuatum (Griff.) Wijk & Margad. + + + +
8. H. consenguineum (Thwaites & Mitt) Accepted
+ + + +
Hilp. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
vii. Hyophila Brid.
Accepted
9. H. involuta (Hook.) A. Jaeger + + + +
Accepted
10. H. spathulata (Harv.) A. Jaeger + + + -
(New Report)
viii. Semibarbula Herz. & Hilp.
Accepted
11. S. orientalis (F. Weber) Wijk &
+ + + + (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
Margad.
ix. Timmiella (De Not.) Limpr.
Accepted
12. T. anomala (Bruch & Schimp.) Limpr. + + - +
x. Tortula Hedw.
13. T. muralis Hedw. + + - - Accepted

xi. Weissia Hedw.
Accepted
14. W. controverse Hedw. + + - +
B. ORDER: BRYALES Limpr.
Alam et al. (2014) 1(1): 0813
.
2. FAMILY: Bryaceae Schwgr
xii. Anomobryum Schimp.
Accepted
15. A. auratum (Mitt.) A. Jaeger + + + +
xiii. Brachymenium Schwgr.
Accepted
16. B. acuminatum Harv. + + + +
17. B. exile (Dozy & Molk.) Bosch & Accepted
+ + + +
Sande Lac. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
18. B. indicum (Dozy & Molk) Bosch & Accepted
+ - - -
Sande Lac (New Reported)
xiv. Bryum Hedw.
Accepted
19. B.argenteum Hedw. + + - +
Accepted
20. B. paradoxum Schwagr. + + - +
Accepted
21. B. recurvulum Mitt. + - + +
Accepted
22. B. uliginosum (Brid.) Bruch & Schimp + + + -
(New Reported)
xv. Gemmabryum J. R. Spence & H. P. Ramsay
23. G. apiculatum (Schwagr.) J. R. Spence
Accepted
& H. P. Ramsay + + + +
Syn. Bryum plumosum Dozy & Molk.
xvi. Ptychostomum Hornsch.
24. P. capillare (Hedw.) D. T. Holyoak &
Accepted
N. Pedersen + + + +
Syn. Bryum capillare Hedw.
3. FAMILY: Bartramiaceae Schwgr.
xvii. Philonotis Brid.
Accepted
25. P. mollis (Dozy & molk.) Mitt. + - - +
26. Philonotis thwaitesii Mitt. Accepted
+ + + -
Syn. Philonotis revoluta Bosch & Sande Lac. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
C. ORDER: FUNARIALES M. Fleisch
4. FAMILY: Funariaceae Schwgr.
xviii. Funaria Hedw.
Accepted
27. F. hygrometrica Hedw. + + + +
xix. Loiseaubryum Bizot
28. Loiseaubryum nutans (Mitt.) Fife. Accepted
+ + + -
Syn. Funaria nutans (Mitt.) Broth. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
xx. Physcomitrium (Brid.) Brid.
Accepted
29. P. japonicum (Hedw.) Mitt + + + -
D. ORDER: HYPNALES (M. Fleisch.) W. R. Buck & Vitt
5. FAMILY: Fabroniaceae Schimp.
xxi. Fabronia Raddi
Accepted
30. F. minuta Mitt. + + - -
xxii. Levierella Mll. Hal.
31. Levierella neckeroides (Griff.) O Shea
Accepted
& Matcham + + - -
Syn. Livierella fabroniacea Mull. Hal.
6. FAMILY: Entodontaceae Kindb.
xxiii. Entodon Mll. Hal.
Accepted
32. E. myurus (Hook.) Hampe + + + -
Accepted
33. E. prorepens (Mitt.) A. Jaeger + + + -
Accepted
34. E. cocinnus (De Not.) Par. + - - -
(New Report)
Accepted
35. E. plicatus Mull. Hal + + + + (New Report)
7. FAMILY: Stereophyllaceae (M. Fleisch.) W. R. Buck & Ireland

xxiv. Stereophyllum Mitt.
Alam et al. (2014) 1(1): 0813
.
Accepted
36. S. tavoyense (Hook. ex Harv.) A. Jaeger + + - +
(New report)
8. FAMILY: Sematophyllaceae Broth.
xxv. Wijkia H. A. Crum
Accepted
37. W. tanytricha (Mont.) H. A. Crum + - - +
9. FAMILY: Plagiotheciaceae (Broth.) M. Fleisch.
xxvi. Plagiothecium Bruch & Schimp.
Accepted
38. P. cavifolium (Brid.) Z. Iwats + - - -
(New Report)
10. FAMILY: Meteoriaceae Kindb
xxvii. Diaphanodon Renuald & Cardot.
39. D. procumbens (Mull.Hal) Renauld & Accepted
+ + + -
Cardot (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
xxviii. Pseudobarbella Nog.
40. P. compressiramea (Renauld and Accepted
+ + + -
Cardot) Nog. (Choudhary & Deora 2001)
E. ORDER: DICRANALES H. Philib. & M. Fleisch.
11. FAMILY: Fissidentaceae Schimp.
xxix. Fissidens Hedw.
Accepted
41. F. curvato-involutus Dixon + + + +
Accepted
42. F. diversifolius Mitt. + + - +
43. Fissidens geminiflorus Dozy & Molk
Accepted
Syn. F. geminiflorus var. nagasakinus + - - -
(Besch) Z. Iwats
Unresolved
44. F. sylvaticus var. auriculatus (Mull.
+ + + - (New Report)
Hal.) Gangulee
Unresolved
45. F. sylvaticus var. taraicola (Mull. Hal.)
+ + + - (New Report)
Gangulee
12. FAMILY: Bruchiaceae Schimp.
xxx. Trematodon Michx.
Accepted
46. T. sabulosus Griff. + + + -
ISSN: 2349 1183
1(1): 1425, 2014
Research article
Effect of edaphic factors on the diversity of VAM fungi

Deepak Vyas1 and Rajan Kumar Gupta2*
1
Lab of Microbial Technology & Plant Pathology, Dr. H.S. Gour University Sagar, Madhya Pradesh, India
2
Department of Botany, Pt. L.M.S. Govt. P.G. College, Rishikesh 24921 (Dehradun), Uttarakhand, India
Corresponding Author: rajankgupta1@rediffmail.com [Accepted: 10 April 2014]
Abstract: The present study deals with the diversity and distribution of VAMF at different sites
with different selected plants. Maximum number of VAMF species were found at site IV (57
species) out of which Glomus species was most dominant (58%), followed by Acaulospora (19%),
Scutellospora (8%), Sclerocystis (4.8%) and Gigaspora (1.6%) respectively. In site II 56 species of
VAMF were observed with Glomus (55%), followed by Acaulospora (22.5%), Scutellospora
(8%), Gigaspora (1.6%) and Sclerocystis (3.2%) respectively. In site III 55 species of VAMF
occurred with Glomus (51.6%) followed by Acaulospora (22.5%), Scutellospora (9.7%),
Sclerocystis (4.8%) and Gigaspora (0%) respectively. In site I 54 species of VAMF were found;
out of these Glomus was highest 53% followed by Acaulospora (22.5%), Scutellospora (5%),
Sclerocystis (1.6%) and Gigaspora (1.6%) respectively. These results suggest that selected study
sites are rich in VAMF frequency and diversity. The Shanon-Wiever index confirms that diversity
of VAMF fungal species varies with the test plant and maximum diversity was observed with
Ocimum sanctum (3.948), and Withania somnifera (3.909) respectively. Maximum ANOVA value
recorded in case of and Withania somnifera (0.20) and Ocimum sanctum (0.19) respectively.
Maximum richness value was observed in case of Ocimum sanctum (0.3948) than Withania
somnifera (0.0391).
Keywords: Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) - Vesicular-arbuscular mycorrhizal (VAM) -
Withania somnifera - Ocimum sanctum.
[Cite as: Vyas D & Gupta RK (2014) Effect of edaphic factors on the diversity of VAM fungi. Tropical Plant
Research 1(1): 1425]
INTRODUCTION
Mycorrhizae are the mutualistic symbiosis (non-pathogenic association) between soil borne fungi and the
roots of higher plants (Quilambe 2003). Mycorrhizal associations are found in wide range of habitats usually in
the roots of angiosperms, gymnosperms and pteridophytes. They also occur in the gametophytes of some
mosses, lycopods and psilotes, which are rootless (Mosse et al. 1981, Vyas et al. 2007, 2008). Arbuscular
mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have shown to be potentially able to take up both organic (Hodge et al. 2001,
Campbell & Fitter 2001) and inorganic nitrogen from the soil (Govindarajulu et al. 2005). Vesicular-arbuscular
mycorrhizal (VAM) fungi are essential components of ecosystem for both re-vegetation of the degraded lands
and maintenance of soil structure (Caravaca et al. 2005), thereby reducing the risks of erosion and
desertification.
Soil characteristics, plant species, and climate may all regulate the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi
community. The distribution of certain VAM fungal species has been related to soil pH, phosphorus level,
salinity, soil disturbance (Abbott & Robson 1991), vegetation (Johnson et al. 1992), or hydrologic condition of
the soil (Ingham & Wilson 1999, Miller & Bever 1999). In general terms, increase in soil pH, nutrient status and
salinity in soil are related to a decrease in VAM root colonisation or spore density (Abbott & Robson 1991).
Despite the importance of VAM fungi in the physiology and nutrition of plants, as well as in shaping plant
communities, factors affecting the presence, diversity, spore density, and root colonisation by AM fungi in soil
are poorly understood (Grime et al. 1987, Van der Heijden et al. 1998, Smith et al. 1999). One reason is the
difficulty of establishing causation from correlation of soil and plant factors with VAM fungal populations.
Another reason is that AM fungi can associate with a wide range of hosts present in community, but the
sporulation rates of AM fungi have been found to be host dependent (Bever et al. 1996, Lugo & Cabello 2002).
Host-dependence of VAM fungal population growth rates in soil may play an important role in the maintenance
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
of VAM fungal species diversity in grasslands (Bever et al. 1996), and suppression of mycorrhizal symbioses
may result in a decrease in dominant plant population and an increase in species diversity (Hartnett & Wilson
1999). In addition, plant diversity may increase or decrease if the dominant plant competitors are more weakly
or strongly mycotrophic than their neighbours (Hartnett & Wilson 1999).
An additional factor influencing populations of VAM fungi in soil, which may in turn affect the performance
of plant species relative to each other, is the hydrologic condition of the soil, which may vary seasonally. The
hydrologic condition of the soil plays an important role in determining plant community structure, and is even
more important when soils are commonly subjected to periods of dryness and flooding (Chaneton et al. 1998).
VAM fungi have been found in the roots of many plants in wetlands (Ingham & Wilson 1999, Miller & Bever
1999) or salt marshes (Brown & Bledsoe 1996). This is relevant because the fungi are believed to require well
aerated soils, and are thought to have problems adapting to flooded conditions (Mosse et al. 1981).
Nevertheless, little is known of VAM fungi patterns in wetlands or of the influence of the hydrologic condition
of the soil on populations of AM fungus species.
Medicinal plants have been backbone of Indian traditional medicine system Ayurveda. Among the
mentioned plants in various Ayurveda texts two herbs Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) and Tulsi/ Holy basil
(Ocimum sanctum) are known for their extensive use in traditional Indian medicine. The major biochemical
constituents of Ashwagandha are steroidal alkaloids and steroidal lactones in a class of constituents called
withanolides. At present, 12 alkaloids, 35 withanolides, and several sitoindosides from this plant have been
isolated and studied. A sitoindoside is a withanolide containing a glucose molecule at carbon 27. Much of
Ashwaganda's pharmacological activity has been attributed to two main withanolides, withaferin A and
withanolide D. These days many people cultivating medicinal plants to fulfil the increasing demands of
pharmaceutical industries. Tulsi, the holy basil is one of the most cherished herbs for its many healing and
health-giving properties in the Orient. Some of the main chemical constituents of tulsi are: oleanolic acid,
ursolic acid, rosmarinic acid, eugenol, carvacrol, linalool, -caryophyllene (about 8%) (Kuhn & Winston 2007)
-elemene (c.11.0%), and germacrene D (about 2%) (Puri 2002). Current research offers substantial evidence
that Tulsi reduces stress, enhances stamina and endurance, increases the body's efficient use of oxygen, boosts
the immune system, reduces inflammation, protects against radiation damage, lessens aging factors, supports the
heart, lungs and liver; has antibiotic, antiviral and antifungal properties; enhances the efficacy of many other
therapeutic treatments; and provides a rich supply of antioxidants and other nutrients
Thus prompted with above mentioned facts we undertook present study to understand how AM fungi play
their role in association with the two above mentioned medicinal plants, in order to understand their bio-
fertilizing potential which can be exploited accordingly.

For the present investigation two test sites were selected, (I) Kariaya Village (II) Jaitpur Village in Shahdol
district of central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The experiments were conducted for quantitative and
qualitative estimation of AM fungi from rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil and roots of test plants.
The rhizosphere soil and root samples of selected test medicinal plants were collected from different soil
depths (i.e. 010, 1020, 2030, 3040 cm). The VAM spores were isolated from the collected soil samples by
wet sieving and decanting method (Gerdemann & Nicolson 1963). Mycorrhizal spores were identified according
to their spore morphology using conventional taxonomic key of Schenck & Perez (1990) and descriptions from
http://invam.wvu.edu/the-fungi/classification. For the estimation of AM spores, a technique provided by Gour &
Adholeya (1994) was followed. The soil pH was determined in 1:5 suspension of soil: deionized water ratio,
electrometrically by glass electrode pH meter 335 (Jackson 1982). Statistical analysis of data for comparison of
means, analysis of variance (ANOVA) was followed after Gupta & Kapoor (1997).
RESULT
Variance in relative abundance of VAMF spores was observed, with test plants Withania somnifera and
Ocimum sanctum, growing in the Karaiya village and Jaitpur village, along soil depth gradient (Table 1).
Maximum value was recorded up to 10 cm depth and minimum was recorded at 3040 cm depth.
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
Table 2. Shannon-Weaver diversity index (HI) and evenness (JI) of VAM fungi associated with test medicinal plants at two
different sites in different soil depths.
Shannon Index with Soil depth (cm) Total
Site
evenness 010 1020 2030 3040 (MeanSD)
Karaiya village Soil
HI 2.258 2.131 1.831 1.252 1.8680.450
Withania somnifera I
J 0.88 0.89 0.88 0.90 0.880.009
I
H 2.20 2.048 1.818 0.899 1.7410.580
Ocimum sanctum I
J 0.95 0.93 0.93 0.82 0.900.050
Jaitpur village Soil
HI 2.371 2.248 1.909 1.63 2.030.34
Withania somnifera
JI 0.84 0.83 0.87 0.91 0.860.03
HI 2.04 2.143 1.947 1.767 1.9740.15
Ocimum sanctum
JI 0.88 0.89 0.88 0.98 0.900.04
The Shannon-Weaver index value suggests that W. somnifera harbours more diverse morphotypes than O.
sanctum (Table 2). Comparatively, soil of Jaitpur (H, 2.351) village harbour greater number of morphotypes in
W. somnifera than of Karaiya (H, 2.250). However,
Shannon Weaver index (H') value obtained from the different depth of rhizosphere of O. sanctum growing
in Jaitpur village soil showed maximum value at the depth of 1020 cm (2.143), and further deeper region
showed linear decrease an H' value. O. sanctum growing Karaiya village showed maximum H` value up to 10
cm depth and below this H' value gradually decreased.
The evenness (J') of VAMF shows interesting trends, where there is little hike in J' value at 2030 cm and
3040 cm deep in soils from W. somnifera plants growing in Jaitpur village, at Karaiya village no such
significant difference in J' value was observed (Table 2). Data of evenness (J') of VAMF in soils from
O.sanctum in both the sites (i.e. Karaiya village soil and Jaitpur village) soil didnt showed definite trend. Where
at Kariaya village soil J' value almost remains same up to 30 cm depth, with sudden significant reduction in J'
further (Table 2). In contrast to this Jaitpur village soil J' value though remains same up to the depth of 30 cm
but a significant increased at 40 cm depth (Table 2).
Figure 1. Distribution of VAMF species in the Figure 2. Occurrence of VAMF species associated with
rhizosphere soil of Withania somnifera and Ocimum either Withania somnifera or Ocimum sanctum growing in
sanctum. Karaiya village and Jaitpur village.Ocimum sanctum.
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
The study revealed in total, 27 morphologically distinct VAM species isolated from the rhizosphere of
Withania somnifera and Ocimum sanctum growing at the two study sites (Fig. 1). Out of 27 VAM fungal
species, 13 different species were found associated only with W. somnifera, six species were found only with O.
sanctum and eight species were found common in both the plants. Thus, a total of 21 species associated with W.
somnifera and 14 species were found associated with O. sanctum (Fig. 1).
Among the 21 VAM species found associated with W. somnifera, five VAMF species viz. Acaulospora
mellea, A. scrobiculata, Glomus claroideum, G. etunicatum and G. macrocarpum were not found in Jaitpur soil,
whereas A. bireticulata, A. denticulata, G. dimorphicum were not found in Jaitpur village soil (Fig. 2).
Acaulospora sp., A. nicolsonii, G. clarum and G. hoi were the prominent species of the VAM fungi which were
isolated from surface to 40 cm. depths in the Karaiya village soil. G. intraradices and G. mosseae were isolated
from the depth of 30 cm. A. denticulata and Glomus sp. were obtained from the depths of 1020 and 2030 cm.
G. ambisporum, and G. fasciculatum were isolated from 010 and 1020 cm depths. A. bireticulata, G. australe,
G. desrticola, G. dimorphicum, and G. pustolatum were isolated from 010 cm depth in the Karaiya village soil
(Table 1).
In the Jaitpur village soil, A. nicolsonii, G. clarum, G. hoi and G. intraradices were isolated from the topsoil
to of 40 cm depth. G. etunicatum, G. mosseae and G. versiforme were collected from of 30 cm depth. A. mellea
and G. desrticola were isolated from 010, 1020, and 3040 cm soil depth. A. scrobiculata, G. australe, G.
fasciculatum, G. macrocarpum, and G. pusotlatum were isolated from 010 and 1020 cm depth. Acaulospora
sp. and Glomus sp. were isolated from 010 and 2030 cm depth. G. ambisporum was isolated only 1020 cm
(Table 1).
Out of 27 VAMF species, 14 species were found associated with O. sanctum in both the sites (Fig. 1).
Among the 14 VAMF species, three species viz. A. foveata, Entrophospora infrequens and G. etunicatum were
not found in Karaiya village soil (Fig. 2). A. nicolsonii and G. clarum were the two VAMF species found very
prominent in Karaiya village soil and isolated in all measured soil depth. A. spinosa, G. fasciculatum, G.
heterosporum and G. hoi were isolated from the depth of 30 cm. Whereas, A. scrobiculata, G. ambisporum and
G. intraradices were isolated from the depth of 20 cm. G. botryoides was isolated in topsoil (010 cm) and
Scutellospora pellucida was isolated from 2030 and 3040 cm soil depth (Table 1).
In the Jaitpur village soil, A. nicolsonii, G. clarum, G. hoi and G. intraradices were isolated from the topsoil
to of 40 cm depth. G. etunicatum, G. mosseae and G. versiforme were collected from of 30 cm depth. A. mellea
and G. desrticola were isolated from 010, 1020, and 3040 cm soil depth. A. scrobiculata, G. australe, G.
fasciculatum, G. macrocarpum, and G. pusotlatum were isolated from 010 and 1020 cm depth. Acaulospora
sp. and Glomus sp. were isolated from 010 and 2030 cm depth. G. ambisporum was isolated only 1020 cm
(Table 1).
Out of 27 VAMF species, 14 species were found associated with O. sanctum in both the sites (Fig. 1).
Among the 14 VAMF species, three species viz. A. foveata, Entrophospora infrequens and G. etunicatum were
not found in Karaiya village soil (Fig. 2). A. nicolsonii and G. clarum were the two VAMF species found very
prominent in Karaiya village soil and isolated in all measured soil depth. A. spinosa, G. fasciculatum, G.
heterosporum and G. hoi were isolated from the depth of 30 cm. Whereas, A. scrobiculata, G. ambisporum and
G. intraradices were isolated from the depth of 20 cm. G. botryoides was isolated in topsoil (010 cm) and
Scutellospora pellucida was isolated from 2030 and 3040 cm soil depth (Table 1).
In Jaitpur village soil Glomus clarum, G. fasciculatum and G. intraradices were isolated from 40 cm depth.
A. nicolsonnii, G. heterosporum and G. hoi were collected from 30 cm depth while, Aculospora foveata, Glomus
ambisporum and G. etunicatum 20 cm depth. A. spinosa was isolated from 1020, 2030 and 3040 cm soil
depths, respectively. Here, also Glomus botryoides was isolated from the topsoil. Entrophospora infrequens
was isolated from 2030 and 3040 cm depth and Sculellospora pellucida was isolated from 3040 cm depth
(Table 1).
The 14 VAMF species associated with W. somnifera, commonly occur in both the sites (i.e. Karaiya village
soil as well as Jaitpur village soil) (Fig. 3). Among 14 VAMF species, 11 species associated with O. sanctum. It
was also observed that 6 VAMF species viz. Aculospora nicolsonii, Glomus ambisporum, G. clarum, G.
fasciculatum, G. hoi and G. intraradices were found associated with both the test plants at in both the sites.
However, three species Aculospora bireticulata, A. denticulata and Glomus desrticola which are associated with
Withania somnifera were found only in Karaiya village soil.
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
Figure 3. Common occurrence of VAMF species Figure 4. Regression of VA mycorrhizal fungal spore
associated with Withania somnifera and Ocimum sanctum population with soil depth; soil pH; soil moisture percent in
growing in Karaiya village or Jaitpur village. Withania somnifera (AC) and Ocimum sanctum (DF) at
Karaiya village.
A linear regression analysis with coefficient of determination (= squared correlation coefficient or r2) of
VAMF spore population with soil depth, soil pH, and soil moisture per cent in Withania somnifera and Ocimum
sanctum at both the sites were presented in (Fig. 4 AF) and (Fig. 5AF). It is clearly evident from the result that
the VAMF spore population showed a strong negative correlation with soil depth, pH and moisture of the soil. It
is assumed that an increase in single variable (depth pH, or moisture) resulted in decrease in VAMF spore
population in both the test plants at both the sites. In Karaiya village soil, depth and moisture of rhizosphere soil
of both the test plants show highly significant correlation, while, variation found in correlation between soil pH
and spore population of both the plants. In Karaiya village, VAMF spore population had weak correlation
moisture, VAMF spore population and Shannon-Weaver diversity
Table 3. Comparative analysis of average values of soil pH, soil
index with evenness at four soil depths from the Karaiya village and
Jaitpur village
Figure 5. Regression of VA mycorrhizal fungal spore

population with soil depth; soil pH; soil moisture percent in
Withania somnifera (AC) and Ocimum sanctum (DF) at
Jaitpur village.
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
(r2=0.563) with the pH of rhizosphere soil with W. somnifera in comparison to O. sanctum (r2=0.943). In Jaitpur
village soil, VAMF spore population showed similar trend as observed at Karaiya village soil with the depth and
percent moisture of rhizosphere of both the plants. These two attributes significantly, correlated with the VAMF
spore population (Fig. 5 AF).
The data presented in table 3 show the comparative analysis of average values of soil pH, soil moisture,
VAMF spore population and Shannon-Weaver diversity index at four soil depths from both the sites. The
mycorrhizal population dropped significantly from the upper to lower soil depth level. Both the soils showed
similar relationships for depths and mean total spore population (Fig. 6).
In the present study average soil moisture present initially increased two fold with the increasing depth (Fig.
7). Average soil pH found increased. Interestingly, soil pH values showed a general tendency to increase with
increasing soil depth in both the site (Fig. 8).
900 0-10 10-20 20-30 30-40 Soil Depth (cm) 9 0-10 10-20 20-30 30-40 Soil Depth (cm)
800 8
VAMF Spore Population
700 7
600 6
Soil pH
500 5
400 4
300 3
200 2
100 1
0 0
W. somnifera O. sanctum W. somnifera O. sanctum W. somnifera O. sanctum W. somnifera O. sanctum
Karaiya Village Jaitpur Village Kariaya Village Jaitpur Village
Figure 6. VA mycorrhizal spore population per 100 gm of Figure 7. Soil moisture percent of rhizosphere soil of test
rhizosphere soil of test medicinal plants in two different medicinal plants in two different sites at different soil depth.
sites, at different soil depth.
2.5 0-10 10-20 20-30 30-40 Soil Depth (cm)
2
Soil Moisture (%)
1.5
0.5
0
W. somnifera O. sanctum W. somnifera O. sanctum
Karaiya Village Jaitpur Village
Figure 8. Soil pH of rhizosphere soil of test medicinal plants in two

different sites at different soil depth.
DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

In the present study, the rhizosphere of two medicinal plants viz. Withania somnifera and Ocimum sanctum
in different soil depth at two locations showed common as well as variant VAMF flora. Such variations in the
VA mycorrhizal fungal community at different rhizosphere zone of plants have been reported earlier (Jakobsen
& Nielsen 1983, 1986, Thompson 1991, Oehl et al. 2005). We investigated the rhizosphere soil over a depth
range from surface to40 cm depth. As expected from 0 to 20 cm depth the rhizosphere of both the plants
contained the greater VA mycorrhizal fungal spore populations. Ecological studies on the community structure
of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are generally restricted to the main rooting zone from 10 to 25 cm soil depth
(Douds et al. 1995, Guadarrama & Alvarez-Sanchez 1999, Bever et al. 2001).
Data from both the site considered together, it was found that the fungal community composition changed
with the soil depth, VA mycorrhizal fungal spore population were found decreasing with increasing soil depth.
These data compliment the observations of Oehl et al. (2005) that VAM spore abundance and species richness
decreased with increasing soil depth. Few studies also support, which done in the subsoil that increasing soil
depth, a decrease was found in the percentage of roots colonized by AMF (Jakobsen & Nielsen 1983, Rillig &
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
Field 2003), in the number of infective propagules (An et al. 1990), and in the amount of extra radical AMF
hyphae (Kabir et al. 1998).
In the present study maximum number of morphotypes as well as maximum percent population of spores
was recorded under the genus Glomus. The genus Glomus is reported to be the dominant VAM fungi in some of
the forest ecosystems (Sharma et al. 1986, Tamuli & Boruah 2002). Vyas & Soni (2004) and Vyas et al. (2006)
have reported dominance of Glomus from Sagar. Dwivedi et al. (2004) suggested physico chemical properties of
soil of Sagar are responsible for the occurrence of differential VAMF.
Here, many species were recorded in low numbers that too in one of the samplings only in the test sites. The
rarity of some species may be an account of their narrow adaptability in contrast to Glomus species, which
showed adaptability. Schenck & Kinloch (1980) attributed the abundance of Glomus species in the soils to their
wide adaptability to different plants and environmental conditions.
Many species of VA mycorrhizal fungi were frequently found in the Jaitpur village. Interestingly, these
species does not found in the Karaiya village soil such as Aculospora foveata, A. mellea, A. scrobiculata,
Entrophospora infrequens, Glomus claroideum, G. etunicatum, and G. macrocarpum. However, their number
decreases along with increasing soil depths. It is assumed that these VA mycorrhizal fungi, at least in central
India preferentially inhabit undisturbed topsoil, rich in organic matter as occurring in Jaitpur village is as a good
example. Another possibility is that they might need specific plant hosts.
Differences in VA mycorrhizal species in the rhizosphere region with two plants growing in two different
soils may be attributed to the physico-chemical properties of both the soils. It is deduced from the results that
soil of Jaitpur village is a natural soil, loamy in structure. Therefore, does not retain water, because pore size of
soil particles is bigger which provide enough space for spores and mycelium to proliferate even in deeper zones.
In contrast to the Karaiya village soil is a mixed soil having loam and clay 1:1 combination hence, it does not
provides adequate space to VAMF spores to generate/ proliferate. Since, a clay soil particle has capacity to
retain water, therefore moisture content in the soil remains for larger duration, which resulted in to poor
occurrence of VAMF. Wet conditions are known for their deleterious effect on VAMF population (Dubey
2006).
Aculospora nicolsonii, Archaeospora gerdemannii, Glomus clarum, G. fasciculatum, G. heterosporum, G.
hoi, G. intraradices and G. mosseae are frequently found in different rhizosphere zone with both the plants at
both the sites. Oehl et al. (2003) called this type of VAMF species as AMF 'generalists' or even AMF 'weed'
species (JPW Young Pers.com). We assume that even these AMF 'generalists' might fulfil different ecological
functions.
Entrophospora infreuens and Scutellospora pellucida in particular associated with O. sanctum were found
to occur more abundantly with increasing soil depth. Thus at least with respect to spore formation, these species
appear to be specialized for deeper layers of the soils. This observation agrees with earliest findings of Mader et
al. (2002), Jansa et al. (2003) and Oehl et al. (2004). The occurrence of Scutellospora calospora and S.
pellucida spore were found to be negative correlated with soil contents of available phosphorous (Oehl et al.
2004). These findings suggest these possible reasons for the stimulation of development of S. pellucida in
deeper soil layers, mainly the reduced mechanical soil disturbances and this effect to decreased supply of
phosphorous.
In the present study there was highly negative significant correlation observed between soil parameters and
fungal spore density in the samplings. The ability of the soil to support mycorrhizal population significantly
decreases with increasing soil depth and is no doubt, greatly influenced by the total number of VA mycorrhizal
propagules at a given depth. The average VA mycorrhizal spore population approaches zero at increased soil
depths. Linear regression is a reasonably accurate statistical model for the data. However, mycorrhizae are
absent at the soil surface, where there are no roots, yet linear models have a 'Y' intercept at zero depth. In reality,
VA mycorrhizal spore population should be zero at the soil surface (zero depth), so linear models do not account
for the absence of mycorrhizae at the soil surface. The use of narrow soil profiles (12 cm) for estimating fungal
population could be a solution for developing a biological, nonlinear model that reflects the actual ability of the
soil to support mycorrhizal formation.
Fibrous root systems such as those found in W. somnifera decrease with increasing soil depth. Data from
cultivated soil (Sutton & Barron 1972, Smith 1978), from grassland soil (Sparling & Tinker 1975), and from
semi-arid soil (Schwab & Reeves 1981) also support our results. These observations strongly support Redhead's
(1977) conclusion that VAM decrease markedly below 15 cm and are consistent with similar observations of
Vyas & Gupta (2014) 1(1): 14-25
.
Warcup (1951) for saprobic fungi. Mycorrhiza and fungal propagules of VAMF may occur at much greater
depths in soil than those depths that we examined. It was found both colonization percent and intensity
decreased with increasing depth in Tall grass or True prairie species, but Glomus fasciculatum was associated
with forbs roots at depths to 220 cm.
These results suggest that spore viability may vary with soil moisture, and spore germination may occur at
soil moisture levels that are not optimal for plant roots. Our data support previous observation of Trinick (1977)
that the amount of moisture initially present in soil may affect mycorrhizal colonization of roots and thus the
fungal spore density of soil. It was also observed that a significant linear relationship between moisture initially
present in the soil and VA mycorrhizal spore population. Spore density of VA mycorrhizal fungi inversely
propositional to moisture therefore losses the VAMF. Though relationship between soil moisture and spore
population is highly significant relationship, get overriding factor is depth this can be justified simply by fewer
roots, fewer mycorrhiza and fewer propagules in collected soil from lower depths.
Survival of VA mycorrhizal fungi and subsequent spore germination may depend on a species' adaptation
and on the influence of physical parameters of the soil such as pH (Green et al. 1976). Friese & Koske (1991)
found no significant correlation between VA mycorrhizal fungal spore clumping and soil pH. Bagyaraj (1991)
points out that the interpretation of a pH effect on VAM fungal spore germination is difficult because many
chemical properties of soil vary with changes in pH. Soil pH over a range of 4.8-8.0 significantly influenced
germination of Glomus epigaeum Daniels & Trappe spores; optimum germination occurred at pH 7 (Daniels &
Trappe 1980). The regression analysis of the VAMF spore population of the rhizosphere soil of test plants and
soil pH shows a significant relationship. Spore density decrease as soil pH increases. Our results indirectly
support Powell and Bagyaraj's (1984) conclusion that pH can influence spore germination in VAM fungal
species, and that spore germination occurs within a range that is acceptable for plant growth. In spite of the
significant relationship between soil pH and fungal population, the overriding factor seems to be the depth. The
soil pH range covers less than one order of magnitude. As depth increases, there are fewer propagules to
contribute to mycorrhizal population.
Direct cause and effect relationships between soil moisture or pH and mycorrhizal formation are equivocal.
Peat & Fitter (1993) found no relationship between soil moisture and frequency of mycorrhizal colonization for
British plants, and they reported that VAM occur at greater maximum soil pH values (ca. 6.0) than do ecto- or
ericoid mycorrhizae. Soil from our study site ranged from pH 6.0 to 7.5. The occurrences of VAM at selected
sites are consistent with the reports of Peat & Fitter (1993) and Read (1989). We conclude that soil pH has little
direct effect on mycorrhizal population. Further Wang et al. 1993 had also reported field observations in Britain
that percentage colonization and crop yield were little affected by soil pH ranging from 4.5 to 7.5.
This study shows that the frequency of genera and species of VA mycorrhizal fungi isolated from both the
site varied with the above ground vegetation and with changes in soil moisture and soil pH. Currently, we have
limited means for accurately determining the complex of genera and species that forming symbiosis with host
plants in natural soil and that are responsible for variations in fungal density obtained from soil samples. Recent
advancements in characterizing mycorrhizae with molecular markers will greatly improve our understanding of
the ecology of these fungi.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Authors are thankful to Head, Department of Botany, Dr. H.S. Gour University, Sagar, MM thankfully
acknowledge UGC for financially assistance.
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1(1): 2627, 2014
Short communication
Sporadic flowering of Dendrocalamus longispathus (Kurz) Kurz

in Mizoram, India
H. R. Sharma1, S. Yadav1*, B. Deka1, R. K. Meena2 and N. S. Bisht3
1
Advanced Research Centre for Bamboo and Rattan, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
2
Division of Genetics and Tree Propagation, FRI, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India
3
Rain Forest Research Institute, Jorhat, Assam, India
*Corresponding Author: sandeep080987@gmail.com [Accepted: 20 March 2014]
[Cite as: Sharma HR, Yadav S, Deka B, Meena RK & Bisht NS (2014) Sporadic flowering of Dendrocalamus
longispathus (Kurz) Kurz in Mizoram, India. Tropical Plant Research 1(1): 2627]
The flowering in bamboos is an exceptionally interesting event because most of the species flower either
gregariously or sporadically only once every 60 to 120 years and this is not all, bamboos are monocarpic, i.e.
they flower only once, set seeds and then die. Death in large populations is a cause of concern due to ecological,
social and economic crises that set forth (John & Nadgauda 2002).
In the past, bamboo flowering was reported to be positively correlated with inflation in rodent population
and incidence of famines in the state of Mizoram. Therefore, whenever bamboo flowering is observed in state,
scientists and foresters become anxious.
There are several theories on the unusual flowering habits of bamboo, though scientists have not yet found
any conclusive cause for the behaviour. Although environmental factors influence the growth of plants, and in
the majority of plants they trigger flowering, factors that trigger flowering in bamboo still remain a mystery
(Ramanayake 2006).
Dendrocalamus longispathus (Kurz) Kurz is a large caespitose bamboo; culms 20 m tall, up to 10 cm in
diameter; nodes swollen; internode swollen, 2560 cm long. It occurs in moist hill slopes and along streams in
Figure 1. Flowering in Dendrocalamus longispathus clump Figure 2. Individual flowering culm of Dendrocalamus
in forest of Mizoram. longispathus.
Sharma et al. (2014) 1(1): 2627
the moist fertile loamy soil and particularly shaded fringes of the forest cover. It is distributed in India (Assam,
Manipur, Mizoram and Tripura), Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Dendrocalamus longispathus is an edible bamboo species and is also used for thatching, basket making,
fuel, chicks for doors, house posts and mat making, floats for timber and rafts. Culm sheaths are used for
irrigation and musical instruments and also suitable for the manufacture of craft paper (Wealth of India 1952).
According to Gamble (1896), Dendrocalamus longispathus flowered during 1876, 187980 in Chittagong
(Bangladesh) and during 1871 & 1891 in Myanmar. Gupta (1972) reported it in flowering from Assam in 1968
and in Mizoram during 196667. Bahadur (1979) stated that it was flowering in Forest Research Institute,
Dehradun in 1979.
A survey was conducted by the authors from Advance Research Centre for Bamboo and Rattan (ARCBR),
Bethlehem Vengthlang, Aizawl, Mizoram in the different districts of the state in month of January and February
2014 (Fig. 1,2). They observed sporadic flowering of Dendrocalamus longispathus in Kolasib and Mamit
districts of Mizoram. The seed setting can be expected by the month of AprilMay.
Observations also revealed that flowering in Dendrocalamus longispathus (Kurz) Kurz is more on the
southern aspect where the localised area is drier as compared to the northern aspect and wet areas. This revealed
that the flowering in the Dendrocalamus longispathus (Kurz) Kurz is brought out by the environmental factors
rather than the genetic factor.
REFERENCES
Anonymous (1952) The Wealth of India: Raw Materials. III. Publications and Information Directorate, C.S.I.R.,
New Delhi.
Bahadur KN (1979) Taxonomy of Bamboos. Indian Journal of Forestry 2(3): 222240.
Gamble JS (1896) The Bambuseae of British India. Annals of Royal Botanic Garden, Calcutta 7: 1133.
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35(2): 95105.
ISSN: 2349 1183
1(1): 2830, 2014
Short communication
Chroococcales in river Ganga at Jajmau Ghat, Kanpur
Archana Singh1*, Vijay Tiwari1 and Jitendra Mohan2
1
Department of Botany, D.G. (P.G.) College, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
2
Department of Botany, D.A.V. (P.G.) College, Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, India
*Corresponding Author: archanasingh248@gmail.com [Accepted: 5 April 2014]
[Cite as: Singh A, Tiwari V & Mohan J (2014) Chroococcales in river Ganga at Jajmau Ghat, Kanpur. Tropical
Plant Research 1(1): 2830]
Kanpur is one of the highly polluted cities of Uttar Pradesh, India (Khwaja et al. 2001). The north boundary
of the city is made by the river Ganga. The river receives domestic and sewage waste from the city with
cremation of human body along its banks and shows high degree of pollution (Khwaja et al. 2001). In Jajmau a
cluster of industrial units (mostly tanneries) discharged their industrial wastes in river Ganga which caused the
higher degree of water pollution in here. This polluted water fevers the growth of Cyanobacteria. A preliminary
study to check the occurrence of Chroococcales (Cyanophyceae) was completed in river Ganga at Jajmau Ghat,
Kanpur (Fig. 1). In this rapid survey nine species of Chroococcales (i.e. Microcystis aeruginosa, Microcystis
flos-aquae, Chroococcus minutes, Chroococcus varius Chroococcus minor, Aphanocapsa grevilli, Aphanocapsa
montana, Aphanothece microscopica, Coelosphaerium kuetzingianum) were recorded from the study site (Fig
2). Identification of these Cyanophyceae members was carried out with the help of Desikachary (1959) Prescott
(1964, 1976), Whitford & Schumacher (1973) and Anand (1998).
Figure 1. A view of Jajmau ghat, Kanpur.
Enumeration of the species

MYXOPHYCEAE
Chroococcales
Chroococcaceae
Microcystis Kutzing
1. Microcystis aeruginosa Kutz. Geitler, Kryptogamenflora, 137 Fig. 59d, 1932; Desikachary, cyanophyta, 93,
Pl. 17, Figs. 1,2,6 and Pl. 18, Fig. 10, 1959. (Fig. 2A)
Planktonic, young colonies round, old colonies clathrate; cells spherical with gas-vacuoles.
Dimensions: Cells 2.84.5 micron in diameter.
Distribution: Free-floating in Ganga water.
2. Microcystis flos-aquae (Wittr.) Kirchner. Forti in De Tony, Sylloge Algarum, 5:86, 1907; Geitler, op. cit.,
138, Figs. 59, e, f, 1932; Desikachary, op. cit., 94, Pl. 17, Fig. 11& Pl. 18, Fig. 11, 1959. (Fig. 2B)
Singh et al. (2014) 1(1): 2830
.
Figure 2. A, Microcystis aeruginosa; B, Microcystis flos-aquae; C, Chroococcus minutus; D, C. varius; E, C. minor; F,

Aphanocapsa grevillei; G, A. Montana; H, Aphanothece microscopica; I, Coelosphaerium kuetzingianum.
Colonies roughly spherical or somewhat elongate not clathrate; cells spherical, with gas-vacuoles.
Distribution: Planktonic in Ganga water.
Chroococcus Nag.
3. Chroococcus minutus (Kutz.) Nag. Forti in De Toni op. cit., 5:14, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 232, Fig. 112a,
113c, 1932; Desikachary, op. cit., 103, Pl. 24, Fig. 4, 1959. (Fig. 2C)
Cells spherical or obong; single or in groups of 2-4, light blue-green; sheath not lamellated, colourless.
Dimensions: Cells 4.08.9 micron in diameter; cells with sheath 6.212.8 micron in diameter.
Distribution: In stagnant Ganga water in ditches.
4. Chroococcus varius A.Br. Forti in De Toni, op. cit., 5:21, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 236, Fig. 114a, 1932;
Desikachary, op. cit., 107, Pl. 24, Fig. 5, 1959. (Fig. 2D)
Thallus gelatinous, dirty olive green; cells globular sheath apparently thick, indistinctly lamellated;
colourless or yellowish.
Dimensions: Cells without sheath 2.23.4 micron in diameter; with sheath 6.08.4 micron in diameter.
Distribution: On walls of the Ganga Bridge.
5. Chroococcus minor Forti in De Toni, op. cit., 5:23, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 240,
Fig. 116g, 1932; Desikachary, op. cit., 105, Pl. 24, Fig. 1, 1959. (Fig. 2E)
Thallus slimy-gelatinous, dirty blue-green; cells spherical, singly or in pairs; sheath colorless, very thin.
Singh et al. (2014) 1(1): 2830
.
Dimensions: Cells with sheath 4.04.2 sheath 4.04.2 micron in diameter, cells without sheath 3.03.4 micron
in diameter.
Distribution: In stagnant Ganga water, in sand and water culture.
Aphanocapsa Nag.
6. Aphanocapsa grevillei (Hass) Rabenhorst Prescott. op. cit., Pl. 101, Figs 15,16, 1951. (Fig. 2F)
Colony free-floating, spherical or in age irregularly shaped; cells in pairs, in groups of four and crowded,
evenly dispersed through colourless mucilage blue-green with pseudovacuoles.
Distribution: In Ganga water.
7. Aphanocapsa montana Cramer. Forty in De Toni, op. cit., 5:72, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 159, 1932;
Desikachary, op. cit., 135, Pl. 20, Fig. 8, 1959. (Fig. 2G)
Thallus of no definite shape, gelatinous, yellow-green, or blue-green, cells spherical; mucilage colourless
diffluent.
Distribution: On submerged objects in Ganga water.
Aphanothece Nag.
8. Aphanothece microscopica Nag. Forti in De Toni, op. cit., 5:83, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 172, Fig.79, 1932;
Desikachary, op. cit., 142, Pl. 22, Figs. 4,5,9, 1959. (Fig. 2H)
Thallus small, gelatinous; cells oblong cylindrical.
Dimensions: Cells 4.24.5 micron broad; 7.88.4 micron long.
Distribution: On submerged soil on the banks of River Ganga.
Coelosphaerium Nag.
9. Coelosphaerium kuetzingianum Nag. Forti in De Toni op. cit., 5:100, 1907; Geitler, op. cit., 253, Fig. 121c,d
1932; Desikachary, op. cit., 148, Pl. 28 Figs. 7,8, 1959. (Fig. 2I)
Colony more or less spherical with a thin colonial mucilage envelope; cells spherical or sub-spherical, cells
loosely arranged.
Dimensions: Colony 45.050.1 micron in diameter; Cells 2.32.8 micron in diameter.
Distribution: Mix with other algae in muddy places on the bank of river Ganga.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The authors are thankful to Dr. (Mrs.) Meeta Jamal, Principal and Dr. (Mrs.) Archana Srivastava, Head of
Deptt. Botany, D.G.P.G. College, Kanpur for facilities provided and Dr. Narendra Mohan, Head of. Deptt.
Botany, D.A-V. College, Kanpur for his valuable suggestions, encouragements and facilities provided.
REFERENCES
Anand N (1998) Indian Freshwater Microalgae. Bishen Shigh Mahendra Pal Singh Publication, Dehra Dun,
India.
Desikachary TV (1959) Cyanophyta, Monograph on blue green algae. I.C.A.R., New Delhi, India.
Khwaja AR, Singh R & Tandon SN (2011) Monitoring of Ganga water and sediments vis--vis tannery
pollution at Kanpur (India): A case study. Environment Monitoring and Assessment 68: 1935.
Prescott GW (1964) The fresh water algae. Brown Company Publishers, Dubuque, Lowa.
Prescott GW (1976) How to know the fresh water algae. Brown Company Publishers, Dubuque, Lowa.
Whitford LA & Schumacher GJ (1973) A manual of freshwater algae. Spark Press, Raleigh.

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ISSN: 2349 1183

1(1): 0103, 2014

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