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The present study was carried out to investigate the genetic variability in advanced wheat lines and to identify superior advanced lines under salinity stress based on yield and yield-related traits. The evaluated advanced lines were derived through accurate pedigree selection method. Fifty wheat lines were evaluated in 2011-2012 wheat season at Regional Wheat Research Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute Gazipur, Bangladesh under salinity stress condition. Various statistical tools were used in analyzing the data. Genetic variability was found among the evaluated wheat genotypes for all the traits studied. The evaluated lines were grouped into five clusters using cluster analysis ranging from high salt-tolerant to salt-sensitive genotypes. High to intermediate broad-sense heritability for measured traits showed their potential to be utilized under salinity stress for identifying salt- tolerant wheat lines. The traits under this study showed highly significant positive relationship with yield in terms of genotypic and phenotypic correlations. This indicated that all traits were important in influencing grain yield and could be exploited as selection criteria for improving grain yield of wheat under saline conditions. Eight wheat lines were selected as high salinity tolerant genotypes that would further be used in the breeding program to develop saline tolerant wheat varieties.

Aims: The application of a huge number of chemical fertilizers for crop production alters the sustainability of the environment and creates pollution. This problem can be minimized by the application of Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPB). Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria (PGPB) are beneficial bacteria that promote plant growth and development through a variety of mechanisms. Therefore, a pot experiment was conducted at the department of Soil Science, BSMRAU to investigate the effect of different PGPB isolates on growth, nutrient content, and uptake by rice. Materials and Methods: The experiment was carried out following a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replicates. Twenty bacterial isolates were used as treatments with a control treatment. Thirty-five days old seedlings of rice were inoculated with different bacterial isolates for thirty minutes and planted in a plastic pot. Broth culture was applied at one-month intervals and crops were harvested 65 days after planting. Results: Experimental results disclose that application of PGPB isolates resulted in a significant increase in plant height, SPAD value, root length, root volume, straw fresh weight, straw dry weight, root fresh weight, root dry weight, nutrient content and uptake by the rice plant compare to control. The highest values of most of the parameters were recorded from the plant inoculated with the isolate BU Ls 28. Conclusion: The present study suggests that the use of PGPB isolate BU Ls 28 might be used as a suitable inoculant for rice production due to the ability of this isolate to promote plant growth.

A detailed study of rice genetic resources in Bangladesh's coastal areas is necessary. This understanding is a necessary requirement for its utilization in selective breeding. The study reports on the qualitative morphological trait-based assessment of 150 local rice samples collected from Bangladesh's coastal zone, including 50 advanced lines developed from coastal germplasm. Six of the thirteen analysed characters had a substantial gene contribution, whereas the average was 0.694. The most impressive diversity was in leaf blade intensity of green colour (LBIGC: 0.705). The total morpho-qualitative diversity was calculated to be 0.412. The character efficiency content ranged from 0.655 (LBIGC) to 0.136 (Leaf Sheath: Anthocyanin colouration, Leaf Blade: Presence/Absence, and Leaf Blade: Anthocyanin. Colouration). As per the morphological variance study, 93% of morphological changes were detected within individuals, whereas 7% were found in populations. The 150 germplasm samples were divided into four subpopulations using STRUCTURE-based population analysis. A moderate genotypic difference was detected amongst all groups, with an Fst value of 0.111. The G statistic backed up the record as well. The Shannon mutual information index reached a value of 1.252 between populations 2 and 3. In terms of gene exchange, the highest value was found between populations 3 and 4. Our data indicate a high degree of diversity in Bangladesh's coastline rice germplasm. The findings will aid in conferring the farmers' Intellectual Property Rights on the investigated rice germplasm.

Background: Rotavirus has been recognized as the most common cause of acute watery diarrhoea among under-five children worldwide. It is considered as a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality particularly in developing countries like Bangladesh. Considering the high morbidity and significant mortality, this study was designed to evaluate the prevalence of rotaviral diarrhoea among children less than five years in Sylhet region of Bangladesh. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College from 1st January to 31st December, 2018. Total 184 under-five children admitted in paediatrics department of the same institute with acute watery diarrhoea were enrolled in this study by convenient sampling. Stool samples were obtained and assayed for rotavirus antigen by sandwich type enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Rotaviral antigen was found positive in 86 cases and disease prevalence was 46.74%. The rotavirus infection was found highest in age group of 7 to 12 months (50.56%) and in male (59.30%) children. Prevalence of infection was associated with age (p= 0.004), socio-economic condition (p=0.001) and exclusive breastfeeding of children (p=0.01). Conclusion: Rotavirus was a significant cause of acute watery diarrhoea and mainly affected children below 12 months age. BIRDEM Med J 2021; 11(3): 186-190

Campylobacter species is the main etiology of gastroenteritis due to bacteria. To determine prevalence of Campylobacter species in stool of children less than five years of age with acute diarrhoea, this observational study was conducted in the Department of Microbiology, Sylhet M A G Osmani Medical College, Sylhet from January to December, 2017. Stool samples were collected from 162 under-five children with acute diarrhoea admitted in the Department of Paediatrics. Isolation of Campylobacter species were done by stool culture. About two third of the children were male (65.4%) and more than one fourth of the affected children (26.65%) were in age group 6-12 months. Campylobacter species was isolated in 24 (15%) sample and among them, Campylobacter jejuni were 22 (91.7%) and Campylobacter coli were 2 (8.3%). Isolation rate of Campylobacter species did not differ significantly between age group of 6-12 months and above 12 months (p=0.211) of age; male and female children (p=0.288); among socioeconomic status (p=0.673) and between residential status (p=0.108). Isolation rate of Campylobacter species are frequent among under five children with acute diarrhea and most of the children came from low socioeconomic background and were male. However, a large multicenter study needs to be conducted to generate more evidence regarding the issue. Bangladesh Med J. 2020 Sept; 49(3) : 11-16

Rotavirus is responsible for acute severe watery diarrhoea in young children. Early and rapid detection of rotavirus infection can help to reduce inappropriate administration of antibiotics and has future positive impact on prevention of drug resistance. This cross-sectional study was designed to determine the role of rotaviral antigen detection by ICT from stool sample of acute diarrhoeal children below five years admitted in Sylhet MAG Osmani Medical College Hospital, Sylhet and was carried out in the department of microbiology in collaboration with the department of paediatrics during the period from 1st January to 31st December, 2018. Total 184 children of under five years of age with acute watery diarrhoea were enrolled in this study. Rotaviral antigen was detected by ELISA (Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay) and ICT (Immunochromatographic test) from stool samples. Out of 184 stool samples, rotaviral antigen was found positive in 84 and 86 cases by ICT and ELISA methods, respectively. ICT showed sensitivity of 90.70% and specificity of 93.88% when compared with ELISA. The rotavirus infection was found highest in male children (61.90%) and in age group of 7 to 12 months (51.89%). Considering the importance of rotaviral diarrhoea, rapid detection of rotavirus infection by ICT is essentially needed and should be practiced routinely as it is relatively reliable, easy to perform and cost-effective. It is particularly important in Bangladesh, where diarrhoea is still contributing a significant proportion of mortality and morbidity in under five children. Bangladesh Med J. 2020 Jan; 49 (1): 14-18

Enhancing rice yield is a great challenge for rice growers in the tidal flooded ecosystem, where poor agronomic management is one of the major constrains. Improve management practice (IMP) was comp...

Roy K, Khan AA, Rubayet MT, Haque MM. 2022. Production of quality seeds of chilli using soil amendments. Asian J Agric 6: 7-14. The present investigation was conducted to produce quality chilli seeds using soil amendments. The soil was amended with vermicompost, colonized Trichoderma, mustard oil cake, cow dung, and poultry manure for quality seed production. The fruits yield (3.63 t ha-1) and seed yield (2.40 t ha-1) were higher from colonized Trichoderma amended plot. All the organic amendments such as colonized Trichoderma, vermicompost, poultry manure, mustard oil cake, and cow dung increased the yield of chilli seeds compared to the control. Quality characters of harvested seeds such as germination, vigour, 1000 seeds weight were found higher in colonized Trichoderma amendment plots. Five fungi, namely Aspergillus sp., Fusarium sp., Colletotrichum capsici (Syd. & P.Syd.) E.J.Butler & Bisby, Curvularia sp., and Alternaria alternata (Fr.) Keissl. were found to be associated with seeds and the infection rate of different fungi varied from 1.70 to 9.20%. The lowest (9.80%) total seed-borne infection was also recorded in seeds of colonized Trichoderma amended plot. The highest (3.73) benefit-cost ratio was obtained from colonized Trichoderma, followed by poultry manure (3.39) and vermicompost (3.33) amendment. Thus, soil amendment with colonized Trichoderma or vermicompost or poultry manure is suggested to produce quality chilli seeds with a higher yield.

Waterlogging is one the major abiotic stresses that affects growth and yield of blackgram. A field experiment was carried out at the experimental field of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, 1706 during kharif II season to evaluate 26 blackgram genotypes for understanding the flood tolerance in respect of yield and yield contributing characters. The experiment was laid out with a randomized complete block design with three replications. Water logging depth was 3-5 cm, created by irrigation from tap water and imposed at 29 days after emergence of seedlings which was maintained for 8 days. Multivariate analysis was performed involving eight qualitative plant characters. A wide range of variation was found for all the qualitative plant characters like plant height, plant dry weight, branches per plant, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, 1000-seed weight and yield per plant. Flooding reduced all the growth parameters of blackgram but degree of reduction varied greatly over the blackgram genotypes. Considering yield performance, the genotypes BU Acc 25 showed the highest yield per plant (9.03 g) followed by the BU Acc 17 (6.47 g) and BU Acc 24 (6.17) under flooding . The yield reduction percent of the same genotypes were minimum (43.86, 60.82 and 65.96, respectively) compared to control which is very important for selection of those genotypes as a flooding tolerant. The Agriculturists 2019; 17(1-2) 89-101

A total of 23 cytoplasmic male sterile (A) lines with their corresponding maintainer (B) lines of rice were used for the experiment. The experiment was carried out in completely randomized block design with two replications in the experimental field of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur during Aman season 2017. A total of 13 characters were studied. BRRI 1A, IR 62 A and IR 68888 A had shown both the earliness and dwarfness character. The higher yield per plant was obtained from Gan 46 A, Straw A, Sugundhi dhan 2A, IR 68888 A and BRRI 1A. Zinc and Iron content of phenotypically best performed rice genotypes were determined in brown condition by using X-Ray Fluorescence technique (XRF). Small differences between Genotypic and Phenotypic coefficient of variation were recorded for all the characters studied which indicated less influence of environment in expression of the characters. Correlation study revealed that selection based on weight of filled grain per panicle, thousand grain weight and number of grains per panicle would be effective for increasing grain yield per plant. Path co-efficient study showed that direct selection based on weight of filled grain per panicle and number of effective tiller per plant would be indicator for yield improvement. Considering yield and studied characters IR 58 A, IR 62 A, IR 68888 A, Gan 46 A and BRRI 1A could be used as cytoplasmic male sterile line which is enriched with zinc and iron. Ann. Bangladesh Agric. (2019) 23(2) : 105-114

Wheat growth, development and yield are severely affected by a wide range of abiotic stresses, and salt stress is a vital and increasing abiotic stress. Salicylic acid (SA) is a phenolic phytohormone involved in plant physiological processes. Hence, we have conducted an experiment to explore the roles of exogenous SA in mitigating salt stress in two wheat genotypes. There were eight treatments comprising (i) control, (ii) 0.5 mM SA, (iii) 1.0 mM SA, (iv) 1.5 mM SA, (v) salinity (12 dS m−1), (vi) salinity + 0.5 mM SA, (vii) salinity + 1.0 mM SA and (viii) salinity + 1.5 mM SA with two wheat genotypes viz G 200-4 and BARI gom-25. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design with five replications. During the vegetative stage, salt stress significantly reduced the relative water content (RWC), photosynthetic rate, stomatal conductance and growth characteristics of both wheat genotypes, while the exogenous application of SA in salt-stressed plants significantly improved the RWC, gas exchange activities and growth performance of both the genotypes. The leaf chlorophyll content was also degraded due to salinity treatment, although it was mitigated by the exogenous application of SA. The imposition of salt significantly reduced the number of days required for maturity, yield-contributing characteristics and the yield of both the wheat genotypes. Salt stress also significantly increased Na+ concentrations and the Na+/K+ ratio, while the K+ concentrations was decreased significantly in both the wheat genotypes. However, the exogenous application of SA in salt-stressed plants significantly reduced the salt stress effects and increased the growth and yield of wheat genotypes by enhancing RWC, gas exchange activities and photosynthetic pigments and maintaining lower Na+ concentrations and a Na+/K+ ratio. Therefore, the findings of this study suggested that the exogenous application of SA improved the salt tolerance of both wheat genotypes.

Wheat is affected by various biotic and abiotic stresses, especially salinity, which reduces the growth and yield drastically. With this view, an experiment was conducted to observe genotypic differences in agro-morphological, yield, and biochemical responses to salinity. Experimental variables consisted of five salt-tolerant genotypes (G 13, G 20-1, G 9, G 22, G 20-2), one susceptible genotype (G 24) and one standard check variety (BARI ghom 25), which assigned to four levels of salinity with electrical conductivities 0, 4, 8 and 12 dS m−1. Irrespective of genotypes, salinity stress significantly decreased the yield and yield attributes. However, maximum total tillers plant−1, effective tillers plant−1, number of grains spike−1, and grain yield plant−1 was found in salt tolerant genotype G 20-2, followed by genotypes G 13, G 20-1, and the lowest was observed in salt-susceptible genotype G 24. The lowest reduction percentage of yield and yield attributes were also observed in salt tolerant genotype G 20-2 followed by genotypes G 13, G 20-2, and the maximum reduction percentage was found in salt-susceptible genotype G 24. Results showed that the highest amount of proline, glycinebetaine, soluble sugar and soluble protein content were observed in salt-tolerant genotype G 20-2, followed by genotypes G 13, G 20-1, and the minimum was found in salt-susceptible genotype G 24. On the other hand, the lowest hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and melondealdehyde (MDA) accumulation was detected in the same salt-tolerant genotype G 20-2, followed by G 13, G 20-1, and the maximum was observed in salt-susceptible genotype G 24. Therefore, higher accumulations of compatible solute in the tolerant genotypes reduce the oxidative stress, and provide the higher yield.

The agro-morphological characterization of germplasm is of utmost importance to generate information to be utilized in plant breeding programmes. The aim of this study was to characterize the agro-morphological traits of 113 accessions of aromatic germplasm (Oryza sativa L.) based on qualitative agro-morphological descriptors. No duplicates were identified among the studied accessions for qualitative traits in the cluster analysis, which means there is a high diversity among the accessions for these traits. Following UPGMA cluster analysis, 113 accessions of aromatic germplasm formed ten distinct clusters. The highest numbers of germplasm (96) were found in cluster IXd, 2 were found in cluster III, IV and VI, 3 were found in IXc and the lowest number of germplasm (1) in cluster I, II,V, VII, VIII, IXa, IXb and X, respectively. Aroma evaluation revealed that 67 germplasm were scented, 34 were lightly scented, while the rest 12 germplasm were nonscented. Germplasm namely Begun bichi, Elai, Chinigura, Basmati 370, Ranisalut, Sakkorkhora, Jirakatari, Raduni Pagal, Kalijira (long grain), Black TAPL-554, Kalgochi, BRRI dhan34, BRRI dhan50, Badshabhog-2, Tulsimala-2, Kataribhog, BU dhan2R , Sakkorkhana, Maloti, Bashful could be used for further improvement for incorporating aroma to the high yielding varieties. Bangladesh Rice j. 2018, 22(2): 41-54

This study was designed to identify the microbial agents causing infective corneal ulcer and to carry out the antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of isolated bacteria causing infective corneal ulcer. Out of 80 samples, 67 (83.75%) cases were positive by microscopy and culture. This study showed pure fungal growth in 39 (48.75%) cases, pure bacterial growth in 8 (10%) cases, mixed microbial growth (both fungi and bacteria) in 20 (25%) cases and no growth was observed in 13 (16.25%) cases. Among the fungal isolates, Aspergillus species was the leading agent detected in 37(46.3%) cases followed by Penicillium species in 7 (8.8%) instances. Pseudomonas aeruginosa was the most common bacterial pathogen found in 11 (13.8%) cases followed by Staphylococcus epidermidis present in 9 (11.3%) cases. Gentamicin, Ciprofloxacin and Levofloxacin were found to be better efficacious drugs against most of the bacterial pathogens noted in antimicrobial susceptibility test. This study showed that infective corneal ulcers are caused by both bacterial and fungal agents but fungal agents are more common. The findings of this study would help the ophthal- mologists in evidence based management of their patients of infective corneal ulcer. Bangladesh Med J. 2018 May; 47 (2): 1-6

The potato varieties, Asterix, Granola and Diamant produce microtubers that are in high demand in Bangladesh. To achieve the full yield potentials of these varieties, an experiment was carried out to determine the efficient protocol for microtuberization. The results showed a wide range of variation in the response of the potato varieties to the addition of chlorocholine chloride [(2-chloroethyl)-trimethylammonium chloride] (CCC) and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) to the microtuberization medium. Potato varieties Asterix and Diamant were more efficient to microtuberization.

An experiment was conducted to determine the effects of nitrogen (N) fertilization on growth and yield of some landrace rice (Oryza sativa L.) cultivars in lowland ecosystem. Three popular landrace rice cultivars: Rajashail, Kutiagni and Sadamota were treated with five times of N application viz. (i) two split applications of prilled urea (PU) at 10 days after transplanting (DAT) and before panicle initiation (PI) stage, (ii) deep placement of urea super granule (DPUSG) at 10 DAT, (iii) DPUSG before PI stage, (iv) PU application before PI stage and (v) control. The results showed that the landrace rice cultivar Kutiagni had the highest number of tillers under PU, while Rajashail gave the highest number of tillers under DPUSG applied before PI stage. Further, Kutiagni produced higher amount of dry matter under two splits of PU, while Rajashail produced higher amount of dry matter under DPUSG applied before PI stage. However, application of PU before PI stage significantly increased leaf area index in all the three landraces. The varieties responded to applied N and produced the highest yield in Kutiagni. The DPUSG at 10 DAT increased straw yield but failed to increase grain yield even over control. The DPUSG before PI stage significantly increased rice yield and economic return. The yield of rice in DPUSG applied before PI stage was comparable to two splits of PU and top dressing of PU before PI stage. Compared to control (2.93 t ha-1), yield increase was 26% in Kutiagni (3.70 t ha-1) under DPUSG before PI stage. These results suggest that Kutiagni was more responsive to added N and this cultivar could be cultivated with DPUSG at PI stage.The Agriculturists 2018; 16(1) 01-12

Drought stress is a major constraint to the production and yield stability of crops. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is considered as a drought-sensitive crop species. Within this species, there are considerable varietal differences in sensitivity to this environmental stress. An experiment was conducted at the laboratory of the Department of Agronomy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Bangladesh during April to September 2016 to evaluate 100 rice genotypes for drought tolerance during germination and early seedling growth stage. The genotypes were tested against five levels of drought stress imposed by Polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG-6000) @ 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20%. The experiment was laid out in a complete randomized design with four replications. The results showed that with increasing water stress, germination in all the genotypes decreased from 95.8% in control to 6.6 % in highest stress (20% PEG) level. Seedling height and dry weight also decreased in all rice genotypes with the increase in water stress level. Based on Standard Evaluation System (SES),18 genotypes were selected primarily. Among the 18 genotypes, Ratoil and Chinisakkar showed higher germination index, relative seedling height and relative seedling dry weight than the check drought tolerant BRRI dhan43 at 20% PEG. Beside these, performance of Kumridhan, Pusur and Somondori was also well at this level compared to BRRI dhan43. The genotypes Ratoil, Chinisakkar, Kumridhan, Pusur and Somondori showed the best performance under drought condition. The Agriculturists 2018; 16(1) 44-54

Effect of pre-storage fungicidal treatment on prevalence of seed-borne fungi and quality of onion (Allium cepa L.) seeds was evaluated under laboratory condition. Seeds were treated separately with five fungicides namely Bavistin 50 WP (Carbendazim) and Dithane M-45 (Mancozeb) @ 2.2 g/kg, Homai (Thiophanate) and Rovral (Iprodione) @ 2.0 g/kg and Provax-200 (Carboxin) @ 3.0 g/kg of seeds before storage. Prevalence of seed-borne fungi, percent seeds germination and vigor index were evaluated just before storage, 75 and 150 days after storage. Fungicides produced significant negative impact on seed-borne fungi and positive impact in maintaining quality during storage. Provax-200, Rovral, Dithane M-45 and Bavistin effectively reduced seed-borne fungi and performed better for germination and vigor of seeds. Seed treatment with Provax-200, Rovral, Bavistin or Dithane M-45 would therefore be suggested as effective fungicides to control seed-borne fungal infection and maintain better germination and vigor of onion seed in storage.The Agriculturists 2017; 15(2) 52-58

In tidal submergence ecosystem, nitrogen (N) is a crucial nutrient for improved and sustainable rice production. Therefore, a series of on-farm and on-station field experiments were conducted to develop a suitable N management practice for tidal submergence tolerant landrace aman rice. In on-farm, urea deep placement (UDP) through urea super granule before panicle initiation (PI) stage was compared with no fertilizer application. Similarly, five N fertilizer management practices viz. (i). two splits of prilled urea (PU), (ii). UDP at 10 DAT, (iii). UDP before PI, (iv). full dose PU before PI and (v). No urea (control) were compared at on-station trial. Tidal submergence tolerance aman rice varieties (Rajashail, Kutiagni, Sadamota and Lalmota) were used as testing materials. In on farm experiment, aman cultivars produced 2.0–2.5 t ha−1 grain without N fertilizer. But, cultivated Rajashail, Kutiagni, Sadachikon, Sadapajam, Lalmota and Sadamota gave 3.0–3.5 t ha−1 grain yield with the UDP before PI in tidal prone areas. Though UDP required fertilizer and application cost but it gave profit upto 22,000 BDT ha−1 (Bangladeshi Taka). In on-station experiment, UDP before PI stage significantly increased rice yield and economic return although it was comparable to two splits of PU and top dressing of PU before PI stage. However, UDP at 10 DAT increased straw yield but failed to increase grain yield even compared to control. It could be concluded that UDP before PI stage of rice is an effective method for increasing rice yield and farm income in tidal prone areas.

The experiment was conducted in a vinylhouse at the Banghabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Bangladesh during January to May, 2012 to evaluate the effect of salt and water stress on gas exchange characters, dry matter production and K + /Na + ions selectivity in three selected soybean genotypes, namely Galarsum, BD 2331 and BARI Soybean-6. The genotypes were exposed to six treatments viz. (i) control (tap water), (ii) water shortage (irrigation with 70% depletion of available soil water when leaf began to wilt at 10:00 am), (iii) 50 mM NaCl irrigation, (iv) 50 mM NaCl irrigation + water shortage, (v) 75 mM NaCl irrigation, and (vi) 75 mM NaCl irrigation + water shortage conditions. The results revealed that 75 mM NaCl salt + water stress treatment drastically reduced stomatal conductance, photosynthesis and transpiration rate irrespective of soybean genotypes. However, the genotype Galarsum showed minimum transpiritional water loss (1.45 mmol H 2 O m -2 s -1 ) and maximum photosynthesis (20.45 μmol CO 2 m -2 s -1 ) as compared to BD 2331 and BARI Soybean-6 under 75 mM NaCl salt + water stress condition. Combined salt and water stress caused greater inhibition of shoot growth than either of the two in soybean. The shoot dry weights were decreased to 24.58, 23.00 and 21.57% of the control in Galarsum, BD 2331 and BARI Soybean-6, respectively at 75 mM NaCl salt + water stress. The genotype Galarsum accumulated higher amount of K + (1.19%) and lower amount of Na + ( 0.11%) in leaf tissue under 75 mM NaCl salt + water stress. Results indicated that the genotype Galarsum was more capable to cope with the high levels of salt under water stress condition than the other two genotypes. Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 42(3): 487-501, September 2017

Tissue culture techniques are the most momentous and extensively method to produce disease-free quality plantlets and microtubers in potato. In spite of this, there has been a lack of research information into in vitro microtuberization for seed tuber production program in Bangladesh. In this experiment, we assessed the appropriateness of different concentrations of sucrose with especial accent on their effects for induction and development of microtuber in potato varieties. In vitro plantlets of three potato varieties; Asterix, Granola, and Diamant were treated with eight level of sucrose as 0, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 and 14% for 70 days of incubation producing microtuber. Asterix induces microtuber after 10.69 days, it was statistically shorter duration than other two varieties. Tuberization did not occur without sucrose and were required a minimum (8.92 days) with 8% sucrose, while it delayed with either increasing or decreasing rate of sucrose concentration. A single number of microtuber was not formed in absence of sucrose after 28 days of incubation. Microtuber plantlet−1 was the highest more or less in all varieties at harvest with 8% sucrose concentration. Hundred percent of microtuber below 250 mg induced in 3% sucrose concentration and from then the microtuber grade induction decreased with the increase of sucrose concentration. >500 mg grade microtuber produced by Granola (47.95%) with 10% sucrose while Diamant produced 50.15% above 500 mg grade microtuber with 14% sucrose. It is also noticeable by Astrerix variety where >500 mg microtuber were produced about 46.95% with 8% sucrose.

A pot experiment was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during kharif II season of 2011 to investigate the growth, dry matter production and yield of mungbean genotypes under nutrient stress soil. Ten mungbean genotypes viz., IPSA-12, GK-27, IPSA-3, IPSA-5, ACC12890053, GK-63, ACC12890055, BARI Mung-6, BUmug- 4 and Bina moog- 5 and six nitrogen fertilizer levels viz., 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 kg N ha-1 were included as experimental treatments. Results revealed that increasing nitrogen level in nutrient stress soil increased growth and dry matter production up to 60 kg N ha-1 irrespective of genotype and thereafter decreased. Among the mungbean genotype IPSA 12 showed maximum leaf area, dry matter production and seed yield (14.22 g plant-1) in nutrient stress soil. The lowest seed yield (7.33 g plant -1) was recorded in ACC12890053 under control condition.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 42(1): 77-85, March 2017

The study was conducted to determine the effect of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertilizer on the physio-chemical changes in composition of jute seed under applied N and P Tossa jute (S.N.) cv. O-9897 was grown at five levels of nitrogen (0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 Kg N ha-1) and five levels phosphorus (0, 10, 20, 30, 40 Kg P ha-1) in late sown condition as seed crop. After harvesting seeds were categorized in to five groups viz. low vigour, medium low vigour, medium vigour, medium high vigour and high vigour which were used for analyzing the chemical composition of jute seed. Results revealed that the chemical composition of jute seed was changed under applied nutrient where combination of 120 kg N ha-1and 40 kg P ha-1 gave the highest soluble protein, soluble sugar and ash content while the lowest soluble protein, soluble sugar and ash content and the highest free amino acid and oil content were estimated from the treatment with no nitrogen and no phosphorus fertilizer.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2016 19(2): 29-38

An on farm field experiment was conducted to evaluate locally improved aman rice varieties in terms of nitrogen use efficiency and grain yield in southern region of Bangladesh. The treatments were: i. deep placement of urea (UDP) before panicle initiation stage and ii. farmers’ practice (FP/control). The locally popular rice varieties were used as planting materials. Higher panicles m -2 and grains panicle -1 was obtained from UDP application compared to FP. Nitrogen fertilization increases grain and straw nitrogen content significantly. Application of urea before panicle initiation stage gave considerable higher grain yield in all cultivated varieties. Cultivated aman varieties produced 2.0 to 2.5 t ha -1 grain without application of N fertilizer. But, cultivated local variety Razashail, Kutiagoni, Sadachikon, Sadapajam, Lalmota and Sadamota gave 3.0 to 3.5 t ha -1 grain in tidal prone areas with UDP. Hence, application of urea gave yield advantage by 0.5 to 1.0 t ha -1 . The highest internal, agronomic, recovery and physiological efficiency; nitrogen harvest and grain yield efficiency index was obtained from Kutiagoni, Lalpayka, Sadachikon, Sadapajam, Moulata and Lalmota. Based on the yield and nitrogen fertilizer use efficiency, it could be concluded that UDP before panicle initiation stage is an effective option of urea application for rice cultivation in tidal prone areas. Bangladesh Agron. J. 2016 19(2): 39-49

Spatial variability of soil chemical properties is critical for improving rice productivity and sustainable farming techniques. However, a systematic assessment on the spatial variability of tidal ecosystem has not been conducted. So, 144 soil samples were collected across Barisal, Borguna and Jalkhati districts and analyzed for six common chemical properties. Rice yield data was obtained by surveying farmers during crop harvest. Soil parameters and rice yield varied considerably throughout the study areas and their coefficients of variation ranged from 8.77 to 71.04%. Slight variability was observed for soil organic matter (SOM) and available K. The pH of the soils was slightly acidic to alkaline. These paddy fields were characterized by high concentrations of SOM, available P, K and S; but low total N. Rice yield was significantly and positively correlated with pH, available K and S, but negatively correlated with SOM.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2015, 18(2): 79-87

An experiment was conducted to study the effects of water stress on physiological parameters associated to drought tolerance in soybean at the Department of Agronomy, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur, Bangladesh during January to April, 2015. Four soybean genotypes namely i) BU Soybean 1 ii) Binasoybean 1 iii) Galarsum and iv) BARI Soybean 5 were grown in two watering regimes viz. control (80% of the field capacity) and water stress (50% of the field capacity). Genotypic variability was found in water stress tolerance in soybean. Highest accumulation of leaf proline, sugar and water content and lower accumulation of malondialdehyde were found in Binasoybean 1 compared to other genotypes. Lowest yield reduction was found in Binasoybean 1. Binasoybean 1 showed relatively higher drought tolerance whereas BARI Soybean 5 was found susceptible to yield. It was found that higher water stress tolerance in Binasoybean 1 was associated with better water relations and higher accumulation of sugar and proline and lower accumulation of malondialdehyde content in leaf.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2015, 18(2): 71-78

A pot experiment was conducted at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during kharif season of 2010 to investigate the genetic divergence of some mungbean genotypes under nutrient stress condition using Mahalanobis’ statistic (D2) and principal component analysis. Analysis of variance showed significant difference for all the characters. Results of multivariate analysis revealed that 200 mungbean genotypes formed five clusters at nutrient stress condition where cluster II had the maximum genotypes (83) followed by cluster I (65), cluster III (30), cluster IV (9) and then cluster V (13). The highest intra-cluster distance was observed between cluster IV containing lowest 9 genotype and cluster V containing 13 genotypes. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between cluster IV and III and lowest was observed between cluster V and Cluster I. Cluster III had the highest cluster mean for total dry matter, root dry mass, pods per plant, seeds per pod, 1000 seed weight and seed yield. Considering cluster distance and other agronomic performance the genotypes IPSA 1, IPSA 12, IPSA 5 and others genotypes from cluster III may be considered for better performance under nutrient stress condition.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 41(2): 377-386, June 2016

An experiment was conducted at the Experimental Farm of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Salna, Gazipur during November 2011 to May 2012 to determine the effect of pre-emergence herbicide Pretilachlor @ 75%, 100%, 125%, 150%, 175% and 200% of the recommended dose under two water management regime i.e. continuous flooding and field capacity on weed suppression and yield performance of Boro rice cv. BRRIdhan28. One weed free and one control (unweeded) treatment were also imposed for treatment comparison. The experiment was laid down in Split Plot design with three replications. Standard management practices for transplanted rice were followed. Continuous flooding was found to contribute better weed control efficiency than field capacity. At 60 DAT, the highest weed control efficiency of 65.75% was found in the treatment receiving Pretilachlor @ 125% of the recommended dose under continuous flooding and the least (54.76%) was found in the treatment receiving 75% of the recommended dose under field capacity. Continuous flooding contributed to more tillers than field capacity, and herbicide up to 125% of the recommended dose enhanced tillering in rice. At 75DAT the highest number of tillers (17.53 hill -1 ) were found in the plots receiving Pretilachlor @ 125% of the recommended dose under good water management (W1T3), while the lowest (11.10 hill -1 ) was recorded in W2T6 treatment receiving Pretilachlor @ 200% of the recommended dose under field capacity. The highest tiller mortality (27.90%) was observed in W1T3 treatment, whereas the least (8.06%) was observed in W2T5 treatment receiving the same herbicide @175% of the recommended dose under field capacity. Application of Pretilachlor at recommended dose under continuous flooding contributed to the highest crop dry matter production (1144.60g m -2 ) thus leading to the highest grain yield of 6.31 t ha -1 being followed by the treatment receiving Pretilachlor @ 125% of the recommended dose under same water management yielding 5.95 t ha -1 along with the highest harvest index of 0.58. Results revealed that Pretilachlor at recommended dose might be considered as viable option for weed management in transplanted Boro rice cultivation for effective weed management and satisfactory grain yield provided that appropriate water management is adopted. Journal of Science Foundation 2014;12(2):39-46 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/jsf.v12i2.27737

A pot culture experiment was conducted at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur during kharif II, 2012 to evaluate the nodulation, biological nitrogen fixation and yield potential of genotypes of mungbean under varying levels of N application. There were 10 mungbean genotypes viz. IPSA 12, GK 27, IPSA 3, IPSA 5, ACC12890055, GK 63, ACC12890053, BU mug 4, BARI Mung 6 and Binamoog 5, each genotype treated with six levels of N (0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 kg N ha -1 ) . Among the genotypes, the IPSA 12 at 40 kg N ha -1 produced the maximum number of nodules (14.54 plant -1 ) as well as the highest nitrogen fixation (2.684 mmol C 2 H 4 ). This resulted in the highest seed yield (14.22 g plant -1 ). The genotype ACC12890053 recorded the lowest nodulation (6 plant -1 ), nitrogen fixation (1.134) and seed yield (7.33 g plant -1 ). Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 41(1): 163-171, March 2016

A pot experiment was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during kharif- II season (August to November) of 2010 to find out the nitrogen acquisition and yield of mungbean genotypes affected by different levels of nitrogen fertilizer in low fertile soil. Ten mungbean genotypes viz. IPSA-12, GK-27, IPSA-3, IPSA-5, ACC12890053, GK-63, ACC12890055, BARI Mung-6, BUmug- 4 and Bina moog- 5 and six nitrogen fertilizer levels viz. 0, 20, 40, 60, 80 and 100 kg N ha -1 were included as experimental treatments. Results indicated that increasing applied nitrogenous fertilizer in low fertile soil increased nitrogen acquisition of mungbean which increased number of pods plant -1 and seeds pod -1 and finally increased yield of mungbean upto 60 kg N ha -1 irrespective of genotype and thereafter decreased. Genotype IPSA -12 produced the highest seed yield (14.22 g plant -1 ) at 60 kg N ha -1 . The lowest yield (7.33 g plant -1 ) was recorded in ACC12890053 in control. From regression analysis, the optimum dose nitrogen for mungbean cultivation in the low fertile soil is 54 kg ha -1 . Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 40(4): 619-628, December 2015

An experiment was conducted at the research field of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur to determine the yield potential of twelve potato varieties for consecutive years during 2009-2011. The mean performance of varieties, generations and their interactions varied significantly. Field performance revealed that the plant height decreased in all the varieties Raja, Arinda, Patrones, Multa, Asterix, Granola, Felsina, Diamant, Cardinal, Provento, Ailsa and BARI TPS1 in the 4 th generation compared to 2 nd generation (Breeders’ Seed) except Raja and Arinda and it decreased compared to 3 nd generation in Patrones and Felsina. The highest plant vigor was observed in Felsina and Asterix in the 1 st generation, Patrones, Multa and Asterix in the 2 nd generation and Raja and Granola in the 3 rd generation. The highest number of stems per hill was produced by Patrones in all the three generations and the lowest was in Arinda in the 3 rd generation. The highest number of hills per plot was recorded in Asterix and Granola and the lowest were in Ailsa and Raja. Higher tuber yield per hill was obtained from Ailsa, followed by Raja, Arinda and Felsina. Patrones produced higher number of tubers per plot in all the three generations while Ailsa produced the minimum which were followed by Felsina, Diamant, Raja and Arinda in all the generations. The yield of different varieties in the 2 nd generation ranged from 11.94 t/ha (Ailsa) to 26.18 t/ha (Asterix) with an average yield of 19.06 t/ha. However, the highest yield was observed by Asterix followed by Granola, Arinda, Provento and Diamant in the 2 nd generation. The Agriculturists 2015; 13(2) 120-132

The experiment was conducted at the experimental site of Agronomy Department, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Salna, Gazipur during the period from January to June 2011 to evaluate twenty selected soybean genotypes in respect of growth, dry matter production and yield. Genotypic variations in plant height, leaf area index, dry matter and its distribution, crop growth rate and seed yield were observed. The plant height ranged from 40.33 to 63.17 cm, leaf area index varied from 3.01 to 8.13 at 75 days after emergence, total dry matter ranged from 12.25 to 24.71 g per plant at 90 days after emergence (DAE). The seed yield ranged from 1745 to 3640 kg per hectare. The genotypes BGM 02093, BD 2329, BD 2340, BD 2336, Galarsum, BD 2331 and G00015 yielded 3825, 3447, 3573, 3737, 3115, 3542 and 3762 kg per hectare, respectively and gave higher than others contributed by higher crop growth rate with maximum number of filled pods. Seed yield of soybean was positively related to total dry matter at 45 DAE (Y = 632.19 + 659.31X, R2= 0.46) and 60 DAE (Y= 95.335 + 405.53X, R2 = 0.48). The filled pods per plant had good relationship with seed yield (Y = 1397 + 41.85X, R2 = 0.41) than other components.Bangladesh J. Agril. Res. 40(3): 333-345, September 2015

An experiment was conducted at the Cotton Research Farm, Sreepur, Gazipur during 2009-10 growing season to maximize the benefit of cotton + mungbean intercropping system through appropriate planting arrangement of component crops in the system. Performance of eight different planting arrangements, such as 1, 2, 3 and 4 rows of mungbean in between single row of cotton and 4, 5, 6 and 7 rows of mungbean in between paired row cotton ware compared against their sole cropping. Intercropping and mungbean density reduced individual yield of cotton and mungbean compared to their sole cropping but increased equivalent yield of both cotton and mungbean. The highest seed cotton (2951 kg ha-1) and mungbean (3373 kg ha-1) equivalent yield was recorded from the paired row cotton +4-row mungbean. The land equivalent ratio of the same combination indicated 31% yield advantage over sole cropping. The same plating arrangement also recorded the highest gross return (Tk. 118039 ha-1), gross margin (Tk. 60220 ha-1) and BCR (2.04). Thus, the panting arrangement of paired row cotton and 4 rows of mungbean could be grown for higher productivity and economic return in the system.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2014, 17(1): 11-22

Salt and water stress tolerance of the seven soybean genotypes viz. BARI Soybean 6, BD 2329, BD 2342, AGS 95, BGH 02026, Galarsum and BD 2331 were evaluated for their performance at 0 and 100 mM NaCl under well watered & water stress (watering with 70% depletion of available water at wilting) conditions at the Banghabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Salna, Gazipur. The results indicated that all the growth parameters like plant height, shoot dry weight, root dry weight and dry matter distribution in different plant parts of the genotypes sharply decreased when the plants were exposed to water stress, salt stress and, combined salt and water stress conditions. Among the genotypes reduction in dry matter production was the least in Galarsum and BD 2331 in both the salt stress and, the combined salt and water stress conditions. These genotypes also accumulated lower amount of Na+ and higher amount of K+ in leaf tissues under salt stress and, combined salt and water stress environments as compared to others.Bangladesh Agron. J. 2014, 17(1): 47-58

The experiment was conducted at the experimental site of Agronomy Department of the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Salna, Gazipur during January to June 2010 to evaluate some important agronomic traits of one hundred and fifteen genotypes of soybean to screen out high yielding soybean genotypes. Considerable genetic variability was observed in the 115 germplasm. Depending on the variability in quantitative traits, the genotypes were grouped in six clusters. The genotypes which have greater morphological similarity were grouped in clusters. The results indicated the presence of high degree of divergence in the genotypes. The clustering pattern of the 115 soybean genotypes in six groups and their inter-group distances revealed that genotypes in Cluster III comprised of BARI Soybean 5, G00083, BARI Soybean 6, G00342, BD 2338, BD 2355, BD 2329, BD 2340, AGS 95, G00056, AGS 129, BD 2336, BGH 02026, BGM 02093, Galarsum, BD 2350, G00084, BD 2331, G00103 indicated better performance which could be marked for the selection of yield potential genotypes through further evaluation. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/sja.v12i2.21921 SAARC J. Agri., 12(2): 90-100 (2014)

A field experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of green manure and nitrogen fertilizer on morpho-physiological traits, yield and post-harvest nutrient status of the soil during kharif season of 2017. The experiment was laid out with a randomized complete block design with twelve treatments, and was replicated thrice. The treatments were T1 [Control (no green manure + no fertilizer)], T2 (Sesbania aculeata + N0), T3 (Sesbania aculeata + N15), T4 (Sesbania aculeata + N30), T5 (Sesbania aculeata + N45), T6 (Sesbania aculeata + N60), T7 (Crotalaria juncea + N0), T8 (Crotalaria juncea + N15), T9 (Crotalaria juncea + N30), T10 (Crotalaria juncea + N45), T11 (Crotalaria juncea + N60), and T12 (N60). Incorporation of green manure with nitrogen fertilizer generated consistently positive responses in important morpho-physiological traits such as chlorophyll content (SPAD value), leaf area index (LAI), light interception percent (%LI), and net assimilation rate (NAR), which may result in higher grain yield compared to control, and N60 due to greater contribution of yield determining traits. Treatment comprising green manure with N60 produced significantly the higher grain yield even over the N60. The results of this research indicated that balanced nutrients supply increased leaf chlorophyll content, LAI, %LI, NAR, and finally led to higher dry matter production and yield of rice. Incorporation of green manure also had significantly increased the macro- and micronutrient content of post-harvest soil. These results suggest that continuous use of fertilizer might lead to a yield loses of rice, and that situation could be escaped by a combined application of green manure and judicial nitrogen fertilizer management.

An experiment was conducted at Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Gazipur during April 2013 to June 2013 to study the effect of three storage containers (tin container, polythene bag and cloth bag); and five storage periods (0, 15, 30, 45, and 60 days) on the seed quality of soybean. The experiment was laid out in Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with four replications. The soybean seeds stored in tin container showed maximum germination capacity with high germination index, highest seedling growth, seedling dry weight per plant and vigour index. The seeds stored in cloth bag had the lowest seed quality during the testing period. The highest 1000-seed weight, moisture content, electrical conductivity, abnormal seedlings and number of dead seeds were recorded in cloth bag; where the equivalent lowest values were recorded in tin container. The moisture content, 1000-seed weight, electrical conductivity, number of abnormal seedlings and dead seeds were increased with the longer period of storage. In addition, germination index, seedling growth, dry weight per plant of soybean seedling, and vigor index decreased with the increase in storage period. Among the three containers, tin container was the best and the cloth bag was the worst storage container for soybean seed storage for long period. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/agric.v12i1.19585 The Agriculturists 2014; 12(1) 85-95

Two tolerant (BB24 and BB43) and two susceptible (BARI busbean-2 and BB04) genotypes of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) were evaluated for their water status and its relationship with reproductive responses under continuous water stress (50% field capacity) and control (80% field capacity) conditions in a net house covered with polyethylene sheet at the Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University, Bangladesh. Under water stress condition, the susceptible genotype namely BB04 exhibited more negative leaf water potential (LWP) which was followed by that of BARI bushbean-2 in all the time of the day except at noon. The tolerant genotype namely BB24 exhibited less negative LWP at noon. The tolerant genotypes maintained higher relative water content (WRC) than the susceptible ones from dawn to dusk. The relationship between RWC and LWP was examined separately for four genotypes under water stress condition. The genotype BB24 showed a smaller decrease in RWC with more negative LWP than BB04. Water stress reduced pod setting ratio. The relationship between the leaf water status and reproductive responses showed that the genotype with a little reduction in mid-day drop of RWC or with high mid-day RWC displayed a high pod setting ratio.

The experiment compared the relative tolerance of some advanced lines and a variety of lentil viz. BD3859, BD3905, BD3867, ILL5087, ILL5133 and BINAmasur1 (variety) to soil flooding. The growth rates of the genotypes considerably reduced when flooding imposed at vegetative stage. However, the genotypes responded differently to flooding onward during recovery period. Leaf and roots showed highly vulnerable to flooding. Flooding promoted extensive leaf senescence and desiccation. Flooding induced damaging of root system was highly striking, despite there existed remarkable recoveries in some genotypes. The adverse effect of flooding was less pronounced on stem than other plant components. However, shoot growth reduction was 76-86% relative to control. Relative growth rate (RGR) of most plant components showed negative rate during flooding, but it varied from negative to positive during recovery period. Considering total plant biomass, flooding tolerance (FT) indices indicated that BINAmasur1 and BD3859 had comparatively better degree of tolerance to excess water. In contrast, ILL5133 and ILL5087 were susceptible to flooding for having negative FT indices.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/pa.v18i2.17460 Progress. Agric. 18(2): 17 - 24, 2007