Journal of Sugarcane Research is a bi-annual periodical of the Society for Sugarcane Research and Development, located at ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu (India). The journal is being indexed by DOAJ (Directory of Open Access Journals).
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Investigation, characterization and prevalence assessment of various fungalcontaminants in sugarcane in vitro cultures
Microbial contamination poses a signiﬁcant challenge during the tissue culture process. The current investigation focuses on examining fungal contaminants in in vitro cultures of two distinct sugarcane varieties, CoN 13073 and CoN 707, aiming at their detection, isolation, and identiﬁcation. The study employed the fungal tip isolation method to isolate and identify fungal contaminants. Six diﬀerent fungal species were identiﬁed, including Aspergillus ﬂavus Link, Penicillium sp., Macrophomina phaseolina (Tassi) Goid., Curvularia sp., Rhizopus sp., and an aseptate sterile fungus, based on their cultural and morphological characteristics from contaminated cultures of the two sugarcane varieties. The frequency of fungal contaminants associated with in vitro cultures of sugarcane was assessed in both varieties at 15-day intervals from explant inoculation to 60 days. Among the six isolates, A. ﬂavus (21.62-33.33%) was the most prevalent across all time intervals in both varieties, followed by Penicillium sp. (14.81-31.58%), Curvularia sp. (0-26.32%), M. phaseolina (0-21.62%), and Rhizopus sp. (15-19.05%). The least frequent fungal contaminant observed was the aseptate sterile fungus (4.76-11.76%) at all time intervals in both varieties.
Sugarcane; Contamination; Tissue culture; Micropropagation; Fungal frequency
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Economic appraisal of a co-operative mill and a private sugar mill in Punjab -a comparative study
The present study was conducted in Amritsar district of Punjab with the objectives to examine the physical and ﬁnancial performance of sugar industry in cooperative vis-a-vis private sector. Secondary data were collected from selected sugar mills and Punjab State Federation Cooperative sugar Mills from 2012-13 to 2021-22. Relative comparison on the physical performance of the two sugar mills viz., Ajnala co-operative sugar mill and Rana sugar mill were made in respect of four parameters viz total sugar crushed, sugar recovery, total sugar production and total molasses produced. It was observed that for both the mills, rate of growth was signiﬁcant for all four physical parameters but average sugarcane crushed, recovery percentage, sugar production and molasses production was much higher for privately owned Rana sugar mill in comparison to Ajnala cooperative sugar mill for the study period. Except for total sugarcane crushed, the extent of instability in the other three parameters of physical performance was large for Rana Sugar mill vis a vis Ajnala cooperative sugar mill. Moreover, the diﬀerent types of proﬁt margin ratios for the Ajnala cooperative sugar mill were negative, whereas such ratios for the Rana Sugar mill were positive. The physical and ﬁnancial parameters of co-operative and private sugar mills clearly indicated the fact that private sugar mill is performing better than cooperative sugar mill. The average cane crushed for Rana Sugar Mill was 187.85 lakh qtl while for Ajnala cooperative sugar mill it was 19.70 lakh quintals. It was due to higher mill capacity, longer duration of crushing and more cane availability with Rana Sugar mill. To increase crushing capacity of the co-operative mills timely payment to cane farmers should be made and latest machinery in sugar mills should be used. Recovery of sugar was only 8.38 per cent for Ajnala co-operative mill whereas it was 10.29 per cent for Rana sugar mill. It should be increased on the line with private sugar mill through upgradation of technology in cooperative sugar mills.
Growth rate; Instability; Financial performance; Punjab
Non Centrifugal Sugar (NCS): a review of its production, nutritional composition,health benefits and industrial applications
Jaggery, a traditional sweetener derived from sugarcane juice, holds a significant place in the Indian diet and various cultures worldwide. Despite being less processed than white sugar, it retains essential phytochemicals like polyphenols, contributing to its high nutritive value and potential health benefits. However, challenges such as its dark appearance, limited shelf life, and chemical clarificants during processing have impacted its consumer preference. This review delves into the production, processing, storage conditions, nutritional composition, health benefits, and industrial status of jaggery, emphasizing its cultural significance and potential for innovation. India, being the second-largest sugarcane producer globally, contributes significantly to jaggery production, which remains a vital part of rural economies and traditional diets. The traditional jaggery-making process, involving extraction, clarification, boiling, and moulding, has seen substantial technological advancements. Modern methods, including energy-efficient boilers, continuous flow pans, advanced filtration, and automated packaging, have improved the efficiency, quality, and safety of jaggery production. These advancements ensure better product consistency, extended shelf life, and adherence to international quality standards. The review also underscores jaggery's health benefits, such as detoxification, improved digestive health, enhanced immunity, and the potential to combat oxidative stress-induced diseases.
Non Centrifugal Sugar (NCS); Value-added products; Storage; Health beneﬁts
Performance of newly developed sugarcane genotypes for morphological and quality traits in North Karnataka
Evaluation of sugarcane genotypes for morphological and quality Traits was conducted at the Sugarcane Research centre, Zadshahapur, SNSI Belagavi, Karnataka. The experiment was layout in RBD design with three replications during the years 2020-21(AVT I plant) and 2021-22 (AVT II Plant and Ratoon). Eleven mid late genotypes viz., Co 14005, Co 15005, Co 15006, Co 15007, Co 15009, Co 15010, Co 15017, Co 15021, CoN 15071, CoSnk 15102 and PI 15131, and one early maturing genotype Co 11015 along with three standard checks (Co 86032, CoC 671 and Co 09004) were evaluated for cane yield (t/ha), NMC ('000/ha), stalk length (cm), stalk diameter (cm), single cane weight (Kg), sucrose %, Brix %, purity % and extraction %. Genotypes Co 15007, Co 15010, CoN 15071 and PI 15131 were best for the traits like cane yield, CCS yield, NMC, stalk length, stalk diameter, single cane weight and also quality character like purity and extraction percentage. The genotype Co 11015 recorded maximum 14.81%, 20.82% and 22.15% for CCS %, sucrose % and Brix % as compared to best standard Co 09004 (14.62%, 20.63% and 22.11% respectively).
Sugarcane; Cane yield; CCS Yield; NMC; Quality traits
Co 16030: a new improved sugarcane variety for North West Zone of India
The focus of sugarcane improvement programmes in India has been on the cultivation of improved varieties for diverse agroecological regions. The inclusion of mid-late maturing varieties along with early maturing varieties, enables strategic planning of sugarcane varieties across the zones, ensuring prolonged and an efficient operation of sugar mills. In view of this, ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Regional Centre, Karnal has developed a mid-late maturing sugarcane variety Co 16030 ( Karan-16) for commercial cultivation in sugarcane growing states of North West Zone. Co 16030 was tested in nine locations of the North West Zone (NWZ) of India along with three standards CoS 767, CoPant 97222 and Co 05011 during 2019-20 to 2021-22. The variety exhibited significant performance over the standards Co 05011, CoPant 97222 and CoS 767. In the AICRP(S) trials, it recorded a cane yield of 94.97 t/ha-1, sucrose content of 17.90% and sugar yield of 11.96 t /ha-1 at 360 days. The variety exhibited resistant to moderately resistant reaction against red rot (CF8 and CF9) and was susceptible to the major insects. Karan-16 was identified for notification by the variety release committee of AICRP (Sugarcane) held at ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow during October 14 & 15, 2022 and was notified for release in the zone, vide Gazette notification No. S.O. 4222(E) dated 23 September 2023.
Co 16030; Sugarcane variety; Mid-late; Sub-tropical climate; North Western Zone; High-yielding
Genotypic interrelationships for flowering traits in sugarcane genotypes treated by Gibberellic acid under natural conditions
The low ﬂowering intensity of some sugarcane germplasm decreases seed yield. Flowering ability and intensity are desired traits for a successful sugarcane breeding program. The goal of the study was to evaluate the eﬀects of various foliar gibberellic acid (GA3) concentrations (0, 50, and 100 mg l⁻¹) on 20 sugarcane genotypes to improve their ﬂowering ability and intensity under natural conditions at El-Sabahia Research Station (31o 12 54″ N and 29o 58' 23″ E), Alexandria, Egypt, over the plant and ratoon cane crops grown in the 2020/2021 and 2021/2022 seasons. The results revealed that increasing GA3 concentrations up to 100 mg/l improved the ﬂowering percentage during the various ﬂowering stages of the 20 sugarcane genotypes. Sugarcane genotypes, namely MEX2001-80, Co1129, and CP63-49, outperformed the others during the ﬂowering stages. The interactions between sugarcane genotypes and GA3 concentrations had a signiﬁcant impact on ﬂowering percentage. According to cluster analysis, the longest full emergence ﬂowering period was 142.24 days, whereas the shortest period was 0.0 days. It was discovered that the Mex 2001–80 genotype's superiority in longevity was mostly due to its superiority in the emergence stage. The GT biplot's polygon view was used to identify the genotypes that showed good ﬂowering responses for one or more GA3 concentrations. According to the study, the responsive sugarcane genotypes may be treated with 100 mg/l of GA3 to induce ﬂoral primordia, which will speed up and intensify ﬂowering. Selection should concentrate on tip emergence stage and full emergence stage to increase ﬂowering percentage, according to genotypic correlation. Finding the best sugarcane genotypes in natural settings is crucial, as evidenced by the necessity for additional research using higher concentrations of GA to evaluate all sugarcane germplasms for ﬂowering ability and intensity.
Genotypic correlation; Sugarcane genotypes; Gibberellic acid; Flowering intensity.
Effect of planting geometry for single eye budded settling on growth, yield andquality of sugarcane under south Gujarat condition
A ﬁeld experiment was conducted for three years (2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22) at Main Sugarcane Research Station, Navsari Agricultural University (NAU), Navsari, Gujarat to study the effect of planting geometry for single eye budded settling on growth, yield and quality of sugarcane under South Gujarat condition. Five inter row spacing treatments comprising of planting single eye bud settling at 90 cm row spacing (R1), 105 cm (R2), 120 cm (R3), 60-120-60 cm pair row spacing (R4) and 90-120-90 cm pair row spacing (R5) and three intra row spacing viz., 30 cm (I1), 45 cm (I2) and 60 cm (I3) were evaluated in split plot design with three replications. In inter row spacing, planting single eye bud settling at 60-120-60 cm pair row spacing found signiﬁcantly superior for plant height (214 cm), number of tillers per plant (5.43), number of millable canes (95548), cane yield (199 t/ha) and CCS yield (14.02 t/ha). In intra row spacing, planting of single eye bud settling at 30 cm gave signiﬁcantly more plant height at 180 DAP (207 cm), number of millable canes (91243) and cane yield (113 t/ha) than rest of treatments. While number of tillers per plant (7.32) was highest under treatment I3 (planting of single eye bud settling at 60 cm). In case of economy, treatment R3 (120 cm inter row spacing) obtained higher net income (Rs. 252989/ha) and B:C ratio (2.56) followed by treatment R4(60-120-60 cm pair row spacing) with net income (Rs. 252892/ha) and B:C ratio (2.38). Among intra row spacing treatments, treatment I2 (45 cm recorded higher net return (Rs. 235008/ha). In case of B:C ratio, I3 (60 cm) recorded highest B:C ratio (2.47) followed by treatments I2(2.39). On the basis of pooled results, it is concluded from the study that higher yield and net returns of sugarcane crop can be achieved with planting single eye bud settling either at 120 cm row spacing or 60-120-60 cm pair row spacing; intra row spacing should be kept 45 cm under south Gujarat condition.
Single eye bud settling; Spacing; Growth; Yield; Quality; Economics; Gujarat
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Agronomic evaluation of sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrid) genotypes forits cane yield and quality under different fertilizer levels
An experiment was conducted during 2021-22 to evaluate the performance of early maturing high yielding sugarcane varieties at ICAR-Sugarcane Breeding Institute, Coimbatore. The experiment was planted in split plot design and replicated twice. Seven elite sugarcane genotypes Co 11015, Co 15005, Co 15006, Co 15007, Co 15009, Co 15010, Co 15021 were assessed agronomically with three standards checks i.e. Co 09004, Co 86032 and CoC 671 and two fertilizer levels i.e. 100 and 125 % RDF. The experiment was planted in wide row spacing (150 cm). The crop was harvested at 12th month and observation on NMC, cane height, cane girth, number of nodes, cane weight and cane yield per plot was recorded. Cane yield was inﬂuenced signiﬁcantly due to diﬀerent elite genotypes wherein, elite sugarcane genotypes, Co 15010 (139.79 t/ha) recorded signiﬁcantly higher cane yield than the standards Co 86032 (114.85 t/ha), Co09004 (108.74 t/ha) and CoC 671(94.20 t/ha). Juice quality (Brix, sucrose, purity and CCS percent) were studied at harvest with random cane samples. Juice qualities were not inﬂuenced signiﬁcantly due to fertilizer levels; however juice Brix, Sucrose%, Purity % and CCS % at harvest showed signiﬁcant varietal diﬀerences.
Sugarcane genotypes; Fertilizer level; Yield; Quality parameters
Genotypic diversity in the type and quantum of root exudates in Saccharum complex and allied genera
Root exudates are implicated in biotic and abiotic stress resistance mechanism by influencing the rhizosphere microbiome, which also enhance the availability of fixed soil nutrients. The significance of root exudates is profoundly higher under adverse growing conditions in comparison to conducive environments. Several reports are available on the above-ground morpho-physiological adaptations to biotic and abiotic stresses, whereas exudation of root-released organic compounds is one of the least studied responses in sugarcane. Root exudates at the optimal amount determines crop establishment and survival by overall improvement in rhizosphere fitness and microbiome beneficial for nutrient acquisition. An attempt was made to characterise the diversity in root exudates of Saccharum spp. clones and allied genera under ambient growing conditions during the germination phase. Among the tested 40 genotypes, 26 were previously reported to be resistant against biotic and abiotic stresses, out of which 16 genotypes exhibited greater proportion of root-released organic compounds, which apart from other adaptive above-ground responses may attribute to their resistance mechanism. The data generated may aid future research in this field of work, and for optimal utilisation of genetic resources.
Cloning and characterization of Patatin like Protein (PLP), a phospholipase gene involved in salinity stress induced lipid signaling
Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) is a large perennial grass that is cultivated in tropical, semi-tropical, and subtropical regions of the world. Salinity stress is one of the important abiotic stresses limiting crop growth and productivity. It involves numerous changes in the physiological and metabolic processes, depending on severity, stage of the crop and duration of the stress. Plasma membranes are the primary sites where stress signals are perceived and transmitted for rapid gene expression/enzyme activity. Lipid signaling is one such perfect mechanism for the transmission of information between plasma membrane, cytosol, organelles, particularly nucleus and has found an integral place in stress signaling in plants. Phospholipases (PLs) constitute a family of lipidhydrolyzing enzymes that catalyze lipid remodeling and generate rapid responses to environmental cues. In this study we have cloned and characterized Patatin like Protein (PLP) a phospholipase gene from Erianthus. The saline (8 ds/m) treated sugarcane hybrids such as Co 11015 and Co 12009 along with Erianthus was used for estimation of the copy number of PLP in various tissues. Our results showed that, the leaves of Co 11015 had high copy number of PLP followed by the leaf tissues of Erianthus.This study aids in understanding of PLP gene expression involved in salinity stress induced lipid signaling.
Comparative leaf, root morpho-anatomical phenes in sugarcane wild germplasm and commercial genotypes conferring drought and salinity stress tolerance
The morpho-anatomical phenes which plays an important role in imparting stress tolerance are less explored for their stress adaptability in sugarcane. The present study was carried out to identify the leaf and root anatomical modifications conferring drought and salinity tolerance in sugarcane germplasm compared to commercial genotypes at early stages of stress development. In the study the commercial hybrids (Co 99004 and Co 86032) showed early physiological stress symptoms with few anatomical modifications viz., cell wall lignification around the metaxylem and reduction in metaxylem diameter elements under both drought and salinity stress. Both the Erianthus clones (SES 347 and SES181) showed several anatomical modifications viz., significantly lignified cells around leaf and root vascular tissues, pericycle, narrowed root metaxylem diameter under drought and salinity stress condition. Erianthus clones showed higher root penetration ability under drought stress with significant anatomical variations viz., smaller cortical cell file, multilayered epidermis and lignified sclerenchymatous hypodermis, lignified endodermis, reduced stele diameter, lignified cells around metaxylem and narrowed metaxylem contributing to root mechanical strength. The study shows that both Erianthus and commercial genotypes could sense the early stage of stress development. At early stages of drought and salinity stress the commercial genotypes were able to survive with few anatomical modifications, while Erianthus clones showed several anatomical modifications to combat the extreme environment. The anatomical traits observed in germplasm clones under salinity and drought stress can be further explored in order to utilize them for developing extreme abiotic stress tolerant sugarcane genotypes.
Molecular identification of sugarcane stalk rot pathogen (Phaeocytostroma sacchari)
Stalk rot is one of the important diseases of sugarcane - caused by Phaeocytostroma sacchari. Survey and monitoring was done during 2020-2022 to assess the status of stalk rot in the sugarcane germplasm and molecular identiﬁcation of the associated pathogen. During the study period, 15 clones from the Saccharum officinarum recorded stalk rot incidence followed by two foreign hybrids. The clones affected were generally weak and were already affected by sugarcane bacilliform virus (SCBV). The clones 28 NG 10 and 57 NG 140 were severely affected by stalk rot. In addition, the association of Fusarium spp. was also recorded in these clones. The pathogen was studied for morphological and cultural characters and identiﬁed through molecular methods using ITS and LSU primers and in the BLAST analysis, the ampliﬁed nucleotide sequence of the pathogen shared more than 98% similarity with other already submitted nucleotide sequences of P. sacchari. As there are no reports available on the molecular identiﬁcation of this pathogen, this is the ﬁrst record of molecular identiﬁcation of P.sacchari from India.
Sugarcane, stalk rot, Phaeocytostroma sacchari, Saccharum spp., germplasm
Approaches endeavoured to manage red rot under field conditions
Red rot resistant varieties are deployed in the field to avoid serious losses caused by the red rot pathogen, Colletotrichum falcatum. However, frequent breakdown of resistance occurs due to the development of newer pathotypes and in certain situations, elite varieties that are moderately susceptible to red rot are being cultivated. Under such situations, adopting novel strategies to manage the disease is of paramount importance. Since protection of crop at different stages of crop growth from red rot incidence is essential to maintain good crop stand and to achieve higher productivity, attempts have been made by following conventional and molecular approaches. Conventionally, effective fungicides, bioagents and their integration were identified and also standardized effective delivery methods for successful management. In addition, attempts have been made at molecular level to identify virulence related genes of C. falcatum to monitor pathogen population under field conditions and to identify newer pathotypes with high virulence for effective screening programme. Besides, established the possibility of identifying potential target sites as genes/ proteins for fungicidal management of red rot in the field. Findings of both conventional and molecular approaches attempted for red rot management under field conditions are summarized in this review.
SWEET transporters in plants and their significance in Sugarcane
Sugars will eventually be exported transporters (SWEETs) are recently discovered bidirectional uniporters that play a significant role in various physiological and developmental processes in plants including pollen nutrition, nectar secretion, seed filling, and combating abiotic stresses. SWEETs are also responsible for pathogen susceptibility in many plants. Although the structure and evolutionary relationships of various SWEETs have been revealed, insights into the regulatory mechanisms of SWEET expression remain the basis for developing improved varieties of crops. This review discusses many relevant updates on SWEET research in plants. We also examine how transcriptional activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs) and CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing tools derive pathogen-resistant plants for crop improvement.
SWEETs; Bidirectional transporter; Apoplasmic phloem loading; Pathogen susceptibility; Crop yield; CRISPR/Cas9
Prathima P.T Perumal Thirugnanasambandam
Analysis of genetic diversity and correlation in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. L) clones in North-West zone of Uttar Pradesh
In order to assess the genetic diversity and character association, nine early maturing sugarcane clones were studied in 2015-16 and 2016-17 crop seasons under inorganic environment in summer planting regime. The results of the experiment revealed that variety CoPk 05191 had greater genetic distance from CoS 03251 (239.401), CoLk 11201 (227.923) and UP 05125 (201.355), medium genetic distance was between Co 98014 and Co 11201 (224. 618), Co 98014 and UP 05125 (179.927), and Co 98014 and CoS 03251 (178.029). The hybridization between the aforesaid combinations of clone scan produce heterotic and transgressive genotypes with higher cane and sugar yield. The cane yield showed strong positive and highly signiﬁcant correlation with cane height (r=0.948**), single cane weight (r=0.817**), number of millable canes (r=0.748**), and green top yield (r=0.653**). Being highly correlated with cane yield, the characters like cane height, cane weight, NMC and green top weight need special focus while making selection for higher cane and sugar yield.
Sugarcane; Cluster analysis; Correlation; Dendrogram; Genetic diversity
Principal component and cluster analyses based on morphological characterization in sugarcane
Morphological descriptors are important to breeders, researchers and sugarcane growers for practical and scientiﬁc purposes and for the protection of new varieties and maintenance of genetic purity and uniformity in a variety. The popular and released sugarcane varieties for peninsular zone from ICAR-SBI were characterized using descriptors. Morphological observations of 21 sugarcane cultivars viz., Co 86032, Co 99004, Co 94008, Co 0209, Co 0212, Co 0304, Co 0310, Co 0312, Co 0314,Co 2001-13, Co 2001-15, Co 06029, Co 10024, Co 10025, Co 10026, Co 10027, Co 12009, Co 14026, Co 15005, Co 16006 and Co 16008 was carried out on 20 growth characters viz., plant habit, leaf canopy, trashing nature, auricle, dewlap, ligule, internode and node etc., Among them, 7 were dimorphic and 13 were found to be polymorphic. The dendrogram based on UPGMA using morphological characters, grouped twenty one sugarcane cultivars into ﬁve groups. The principal component analysis of 20 characters showed that the total variation contributed to PCA simpliﬁes twenty qualitative traits into twenty PC axes with eigen value > 1 and with cumulative variance of 65.30 %, remaining components with eigen value < 1 contributed to 35.72 % of the variability. The information about morphological variations in this study suggests that morphological characters are very important for identifying sugarcane cultivar variations and for understanding closeness of their parents. The varieties under study recorded a wide range of variation for most of the morphological traits can be utilized for further crop improvement programmes and also as a practical guide for breeders.
Descriptors; Variation; Genotypes; Characterization; Sugarcane Botanical description
Response of sugarcane genotypes to varying planting environments under two distinct agro-climatic zones of Punjab, India
Sugarcane, an important sugar producing crop provides raw materials for sugar industries hence, creates employment for the human population. In India, sugarcane planting has large sowing window starting from autumn (October-November) to spring season (February- March/April). To determine the optimum planting time of sugarcane cultivars, a field experiment was conducted during 2017-18 at two diverse locations (Faridkot and Gurdaspur) of Punjab, in split plot design having three planting dates (February 25th, March 25th and April 25th) in main plots and four sugarcane cultivars (CoPb 91, CoJ 88, Co 0118 and Co 0238) in sub-plots with 3 replications. Results described that the sugarcane crop planted on February 25 produced more tillers that resulted in maximum millable canes (i.e., 113.8 '000 / ha at Faridkot and 107.3 '000 / ha at Gurdaspur, respectively). At both sites, maximum cane yield of 128.4 and 136.3 t / ha was recorded under the February 25 planted crop, which was 15.5 and 18.4 % more than March 25 and 31.2 and 36.9% higher than the April 25 planted crop, respectively. At both locations, the higher cane yield (128.4 and 136.3 t / ha) under February 25 planted crop might be attributed to improved yield parameters such as more millable canes (113.8 and 107.3'000/ha), higher single cane weight (1.2 and 1.4kg) and better quality attributes viz., extraction (55.9 and 56.1%), brix (18.5 and 18.6%), sucrose (16.5 and 16.8%), purity (89.3 and 90.5%) and commercial cane sugar (11.5 and 11.8%). Stable sugarcane yield of Co 0238 was obtained in agro climatic zone II, while CoJ 88 was very uniform in agro climatic zone IV, so these varieties can be selected for cultivation in respective agro climatic zones of Punjab. Therefore, variety CoJ 88 is suitable for Faridkot and Co 0238 for Gurdaspur. In contrast, Co 0118 showed very inconsistent performance at both regions.
Genetic variability for fodder quality traits among high biomass energy cane feedstock under rainfed conditions
Eighteen energy canes (Types I and II) were evaluated along with two popular varieties Co 0238 and CoS 767 under rainfed conditions of sub-tropical climate for their potential as fodder crop. The analysis of fodder quality parameters at the 10 month crop stage included crude protein content, dry matter intake (DMI), dry matter digestibility %, total digestible nutrients %, net energy of lactation, and digestible ﬁbre and energy. Sugarcane tops of type-I and type-II energy canes had similar crude protein percentages (5.95 % and 6.61 %). Energy canes; SBIEC 14002, SBIEC 11009, SBIEC 11003, SBIEC 13009, and SBIEC 11006 recorded dry matter intake % of 1.76%, 1.76%, 1.73% and 1.72%, 1.70% respectively, which was on par with sugarcane (1.71%). The digestible nutrient of SBIEC 11001 (49.43%) was higher than that of cultivated canes, whereas that of SBIEC 11009 (48.08%), SBIEC 11005 (48.64%) and SBIEC 14003 (48.50%) was similar to that of cultivated canes. The correlation coefficient between desirable fodder traits was calculated. A highly positive correlation (r=1.0) was observed among the ﬁve desirable traits, such as net available energy, metabolisable energy, dry matter digestibility, total digestible nutrient, and digestible energy, indicated there desirability for fodder value. Based on their traits, two-way cluster analysis separated Type-I and Type-II energy clones into two major groups. According to all parameters considered, energy-cane tops had acceptable fodder quality and were on par with cultivated sugarcane varieties.
Energy canes; Fodder quality traits; Correlation coefficient; Hierarchical clustering
Cluster and principal component analyses for assessment of genetic diversity in Saccharum spontaneum
Forty three Saccharum spontaneum accessions were evaluated using eighteen drought tolerance related traits. The Euclidean based dendrogram divided the accessions into three different clusters. Euclidean distances ranged from 7.65 to 140.23. The maximum distance was reported between the accessions IND 99-849 and IND03- 1247. From the PCA analysis, it is observed that 47.03% of the total variation was accounted by the ﬁrst two principal components. The variables factor map visualized that stalk height at 90 days and stalk height during stress were the two important variables contributing maximum to the total variation. In the case of Euclidean distance based clustering cluster I included drought tolerant accessions while it was cluster II and III for PCA based clustering accessions viz., IND 99-847, IND 08-1500, IND 08-1491, IND 99-984, IND 02-1186 etc. were identiﬁed as promising under drought condition. These accessions can be utilized in the sugarcane improvement programmes for abiotic stress tolerance. The understanding of genetic diversity present in germplasm is important for their proper utilization, management and conservation.
Saccharum spontaneum; Genetic diversity; Principal component analysis; Euclidean distance; Drought tolerance
Evaluation of full-sib sugarcane families for cane yield potential through Random Coefficient Model (RCM) analysis
Identiﬁcation of promising genotypes in sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) breeding is achieved by multi-stage evaluation initiated by evaluation of thousands of seedlings derived from true seed and then vegetatively propagated. Family selection for cane yield in ground nursery is done through weighing cane yield / plot, which is laborious and expensive. In recent times, various statistical tools have been applied for overcoming the constraints in family selection at single stool stage. A population of 1,800 seedlings derived from ﬁfteen bi-parental crosses involving Indian Co canes and Erianthus introgressed hybrids were evaluated in seedling stage. A subset comprised of 450 clones selected from the single stool stage was evaluated in the ﬁrst clonal trial. Random Coeﬃcient Model (RCM)was employed to predict the promising families contributing a greater number of high yielding clones using the cane yield data recorded in the early stages of selection viz., single stool and ﬁrst clonal crop stages. The hybrids of the ﬁve elite parental combinations viz., Co 86011 x CoT 8201, Co 8371 x Co 86011, Co 86002 x CoC 671, Co 62198 x Co 8353 and GU04(28) E02 self x Co 0314 identiﬁed through RCM analysis showed an improvement of 41.86 % higher cane yield than the clones in the average families (Co 85002 x Co 8209, CoM 0265 x Co 0314, Co 8371 x Co 94008, Co 11015 x Co 775 andGU04 (50) RE6 x Co 94008). The positive slope values estimated by the RCM method for the superior crosses highly correlated with the proportion of elite cane yielding clones in the plant crop trial.
Sugarcane; Full-sib families; Single stool stage; Cane yield; Repeatability.
Yield and quality evaluation of First-generation progenies of red-ﬂesh Saccharum robustum Brandes and Jeswiet ex grassl
Saccharum robustum, a wild species of sugarcane that shares a common natural habitat with the Saccharum oﬃcinarum in Paciﬁc Islands. The cytotype of S.robustum with 2n=60 and having red ﬂesh are placed in 'forma' sanguineum. These genotypes possess unique deep red ﬂesh canes. In spite of the close similarity and kinship to the noble canes, the utilization of the red-ﬂesh S. robustum clones in commercial breeding programmes is relatively less owing to its rare ﬂowering habit. They are well adapted to wide environmental conditions including waterlogging situations, and can be a potential source for waterlogging resistance. The red-ﬂeshed S. robustum has a high quantity of anti-oxidants, ﬂavonoids and anthocyanin content in the cane. Anti-oxidants are free radical scavenging compounds that prevent or slow cell damage. Bringing these traits to the sugarcane background will be beneﬁcial by way of fortifying the nutrient-rich sugarcane juice. The ﬁrst successful hybridization of red-fleshed S. robustum resulted in 459 progenies from two polycrosses. Eight selected progenies based on the initial performance were further evaluated across four crop seasons for ﬂesh colour, yield and quality traits to identify potential genetic stocks. The clone GUK 14-48 had red ﬂesh similar to the female parent (NG 77-84) and had signiﬁcantly higher cane yield and juice extraction percentage than the female parent. Based on the ﬂesh colour, cane yield and CCS yield, the clones GUK 14-48, GUK 14-754 and GUK 14-130 are identiﬁed as potential inter-speciﬁc hybrids for further utilization in the breeding programme.
Saccharum robustum; Red-ﬂesh; Polycross; Progenies; Yield evaluation
Red rot disease resistance in interspeciﬁc hybrids of sugarcane derived from diverse cytotypes of Saccharum spontaneum L.
Red rot disease has caused major loss to sugarcane crops for more than a hundred years. It is caused by the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum falcatum Went. In sugarcane breeding, the development of resistant varieties through inter varietal hybridization is a major challenge. Pre-breeding is an ideal approach to incorporate resistance. Saccharum spontaneum, the wild species of sugarcane has been utilized in sugarcane breeding since 1912 owing to their wider adaptability to biotic and abiotic stresses. It shows cytomorphological diversity with 41 cytotypes from 2n=40-128.The major cytotypes are 2n=40, 2n=48, 2n=56, 2n=60, 2n=64, 2n=72, 2n=80, 2n=88, 2n=96, 2n=112, 2n=120 and 2n=128, of which the cytotype 2n=64 is the predominant one. The actual frequency and level of red rot resistance in the hybrids derived from diﬀerent ploidies /cytotypes of S. spontaneum are yet to be ascertained. About 588 hybrids derived from 37 interspeciﬁc crosses involving eight commercial varieties and 16 clones of S. spontaneum with eight cytotypes (2n=40, 56, 60, 64, 72, 80, 88, 112) were evaluated for red rot resistance at 6th month under controlled condition using the pathotype CF 06 (Cf 671). Resistance observed in 44.3% of the hybrids in which 28.9% was MR and 15.4% of R types. Diﬀerential segregation of chromosomes from diﬀerent cytotypes imparted diﬀerential reactions in the progenies to red rot pathogen. The progenies with 2n=40, 64, 72, 80, 88 and 112 imparted resistance at higher frequency from 31.5% to 56.0%. The contribution of lower cytotypes for imparting resistance was 43.5% (2n=40), 19.4% (2n=56) and 16.0% (2n=60). Among the lower cytotypes, higher frequency of resistance with 2n=40 is due to the segregation of the whole genomic complement of 40 chromosomes of male gamete (S. spontaneum) to the progenies through n+2n transmission. Though 64 cytotype derived hybrids had 32 chromosomes through n+n transmission they sustained resistance in 48.7% of progenies. Among the higher cytotypes, 88 and 112 produced maximum resistant progenies at a frequency of 56%. It indicates that enhanced ploidies with the higher male genomic/gametic component impart resistance at a higher frequency. It is advantageous for sugarcane breeding to attain stable resistance. Hence, this study suggests utilizing the resistant hybrids of the higher cytotype derived crosses for nobilisation to achieve horizontal/stable resistance.
Red rot; Resistance; Hybrids; Cytotype ;S. spontaneum; Frequency
Field evaluation of genotypes and identification of traits for selection of nitrogen use efficient stable sugarcane (Saccharum Spp. hybrids) clones
Sugarcane has high nitrogen (N) requirement that normally exceeds the inherent capacity of soil to supply via mineralization. Moreover, long term N fertilization dose also contribute to artiﬁcial soil acidiﬁcation, and eutrophication of surface and ground water. So, in order to identify nitrogen use eﬃcient (NUE) genotypes and its contributing traits, 36 sugarcane genotypes (28 advanced lines + 8 cultivars) were analyzed for cane yield, CCS %, CCS t/ha and their contributing traits by growing them under N0 and N150 environments over two years at Faridkot, India. Signiﬁcant diﬀerences were observed due to genotypes, nitrogen environments and their interactions with major eﬀects on agro-morphological traits along with minor eﬀects on quality traits. Inverse and counteracting relationships were observed between cane yield t/ha and CCS % along with their independent contributing traits. The results of the 'Eberhart and Russell Model' and 'Genotype + Genotype x Environment (GGE) Biplot' analysis were in accordance to each other; but Eberhart and Russell's model was more appropriate for judging the genotype(s) to environment speciﬁcity/adaptation while GGE Biplot was observed as the best approach to evaluate the environments for their discriminating power to genotypes as well as to ﬁnd the most stable /ideal genotype(s) for a wide range of concerned environment and as well speciﬁc to a particular environment. The genotype namely F 194/10 was identiﬁed as most stable as well as NUE clone.
GGE Biplot; NUE; Regressions; Stability; Sugarcane
Productivity and proﬁtability analysis of Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative (SSI)method of sugarcane cultivation
Sugarcane is an important cash crop cultivated worldwide for its economical sugar product. Increasing the productivity of sugarcane is the need of the hour to meet the demand of ever increasing population. The sustainable sugarcane initiative (SSI) is a method of good management practices that involves new planting techniques with wider plant spacing, less water, drip fertigation, nutrient management and plant protection measures. Hence, to promote the Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative technology, off campus training, awareness creation meeting, ﬁeld demonstration and ﬁeld day were organized for sugarcane growers during 2020- 21 & 2021-22 at Pazhanchanallur, Kondasamuthiram, Karunakaranallur, Mamangalam, Vanamadevi, Vattathur, Pudaiyur villages of Cuddalore district, Tamil Nadu. The outcome of the promotion activity revealed that the interventions had enhanced the knowledge and adoption of scientiﬁc practices which resulted in the yield increase under SSI method from 68.94 to 89.41% over the yield obtained under farmer's practices during the year 2020-21 & 2021-22. The extension gap (68.25-87.80 ton/ha) and technological gap (40.81-47.20%) exhibited the feasibility of the technology demonstrated.
Sustainable Sugarcane Initiative; Wider spacing; Productivity; Adoption; Impact; Technology dissemination; Training
Cut leaf assay: A rapid method for screening rust resistance in sugarcane
Sugarcane rust incited by Puccinia melanocephala (brown rust) and P. kuehnii (orange rust) becomes very severe under warm,moist climatic conditions. Though there were methods to screen rust resistance under artificial conditions where rust is prevalent, there is no method to screen the rust resistance in a place where rust occurrence is not regular and severe. To overcome this problem, a simple method was devised to screen sugarcane leaves challenged with rust uredospores and maintaining the setup under optimum relative humidity and temperature for 15-20 days for identifying the rust resistant sugarcane clones. This method of rust screening is simple and easy, fast and reliable and many clones can be screened in short period of 20 days.
Sugarcane; Rusts; Cut leaf method; Disease resistance
Impact of ortho silicic acid (OSA) on quantitative and qualitative attributes ofearly and mid late sugarcane varieties
Plants eﬃciently absorb silica through the uptake of dissolved ortho silicic acid from the soil, a molecule characterized by its lack of charge. This variant of silica, recognized as ortho silicic acid (OSA) or plant-available silicon (PAS), originates from the depletion of silica-rich minerals. Despite its traditional non-essential status for plant growth, silica pervades the vegetation of soil- based crops, conferring functional and beneﬁcial attributes. Intriguingly, speciﬁc crops like rice and sugarcane demonstrate a silica absorption pattern reminiscent of essential nutrients like nitrogen and potassium. Consequently, silica gains signiﬁcance from an agronomic perspective, proving advantageous for enhancing the yield of these crops. Motivated by this revelation, our study delves into the eﬀects of applying stabilized ortho silicic acid (Silxol, 0.8%) on the growth, yield, and juice quality characteristics of four distinct sugarcane varieties viz; two early (CoS 13231, CoLk 15204) and two mid-late varieties (CoS 12232, CoPb 15213). These varieties possess better sucrose percentages, yet their yield percentages fall short, leading to their limited acceptance among farmers due to the payment system anchored in cane weight. The outcomes unveiled a consistent elevation in tiller count and millable cane across all varieties due to silicic acid application. Additionally, the use of OSA fostered favorable impacts on pivotal cane yield attributes, including cane diameter, internode length, stalk height, and unit cane weight. These combined enhancements contributed to an ampliﬁed cane yield. Notably, treated canes showcased superior juice quality attributes, evidenced by enhanced measurements such as Brix levels, sucrose percentage, commercial cane sugar percentage (CCS %), and overall CCS yield per hectare.
Ortho silicic acid; Silicon; Sugarcane; Growth; Yield; Quality; Silixol; CCS%
A reappraisal of internode borer (Chilo sacchariphagus indicus) impact on sugarcane
Damage due to internode borer Chilo sacchariphagus indicus (Kapur) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in sugarcane (cv Co 86032) was assessed at harvest in three crop seasons (2019-2022). Attacked canes were segregated into seven infestation categories based on single or multiple bore holes in top, middle and/or bottom portions. For each infested cane, number of internodes, number of bored internodes, cane length, cane diameter and cane weight were recorded and compared among infestation categories by ANOVA. In an independent sample of 6-month old attacked canes, length and diameter of attacked internodes and unattacked top and bottom internodes were recorded. The data were subjected to factorial analysis for growth parameters with internode position and borer status as two factors. Further, growth parameters of infested and healthy cane segments were compared using Student's t-test.Results of three-season field data indicated that percent of contribution of sample canes with multiple bore holes was generally lower than that of canes with single holes. Percent of intensity was significantly higher in canes with multiple bore holes than in canes with single bore hole. Internode number, cane diameter, cane length and cane weight did not differ among different categories of infested and uninfested canes. Per cent of intensity was generally not related to growth and yield parameters. Further, growth parameters such as length, diameter, surface area and volume of internodes, and weight, weight/unit area and weight/unit volume of cane segments were lower in affected canes than those in healthy canes. Borer attacked internodes became shorter and thinner than the lower unaffected internodes but the internodes forming above the affected ones showed recovery in length and diameter. The results of the study are discussed in relation to earlier published work and some future requirements are projected.
Cloning of NAC 1 gene from Erianthus arundinaceus and development of transformation vector for sugarcane
Genetic engineering approach is a viable method to impart abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants. The genomic compatability between Saccharum and related genera allows for broader application in sugarcane improvement programme in terms of improved hybrid productivity and adaptability. NAC tf (NAM ATAF CUC transcription factor) was found to be one of the most stress responsive transcription factors consisting of consortium of genes acting against both abiotic and biotic stress. Several studies have proved the involvement of NAC protein in imparting stress tolerance. Based on their response to abiotic stimuli, a set of NAC genes have been designated as Stress associated NAC (SNACs). We have sequenced NAC1 gene from Erianthus sp-IK76- 91 which is a stress tolerant species closely related to sugarcane. A 1.8 kb fragment was ampliﬁed in oxidative stress tolerant Erianthus using NAC1 speciﬁc primers. Gene construct was developed with binary vector pRI and the isolated gene was sequenced. BLASTn analysis of recombinant pRI 909 showed 88.61% homology with the Sorghum bicolor NAC1 gene. The oxidative stress responsive pRI::EaNAC construct developed can be further utilised to transform high yielding susceptible sugarcane varieties to beneﬁt them in adapting to multiple abiotic stresses.
Saccharum spontaneum; Oxidative stress; Principal component analysis
Impact of waterlogging stress on juice quality in sugarcane cultivated in tropical India
Juice quality and nutrient status were studied in different maturity stages of 16 sugarcane clones under normal and water-logged conditions in two cropping seasons. In both the cropping seasons, the brix of juice showed an increasing trend towards maturity (18.78 to 20.23%), while sucrose content in juice reached its maximum in the 11th month (17.78%) and declined in the 12th month (16.71%). Reducing sugar varied from 0.45 to 2.15%, and out of 16 clones studied, seven recorded less than 1.0% reducing sugars under water logged conditions. The clones that showed higher brix and sucrose content registered lesser values of reducing sugars and vice-versa. Juice electrical conductivity varied from 0.90 (88 WL 2137 and 98 WL 1357) to 1.80 (88 WL 1072), while pH of the juice did not show signiﬁcant variation among clones. Under water logging conditions, nitrogen and potassium content in juice signiﬁcantly varied among the clones, while phosphorous content did not show signiﬁcant variation. In both planting seasons, the clones WL 1061, 92 WL 1029, 93 WL 1297, 97 WL 633, 99 WL 379, and 91 WL 629 recorded comparatively better juice quality parameters under water logged conditions similar to that of resistant standards (Co 62175 and Co 8231).
Sugarcane; Water logging; Juice quality; Sucrose; brix; Juice nutrient status
Emerging diseases of sugarcane and new disease management strategies
In India, sugarcane is affected by various diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses and phytoplasmas. Favourable environment for the crop growth also favours build-up of diseases and many disease epidemics have caused serious crop losses in different states. Severe epidemics of red rot, smut and wilt have resulted in withdrawal of several elite varieties from cultivation. Apart from these diseases, several other diseases once considered as 'minor diseases' gained momentum in the recent decades and became serious threat to sugarcane cultivation in India. Increased severities of twisted top (Pokkah boeng), brown rust and brown spot were reported from different states. These diseases must be tackled immediately either by withdrawing the affected varieties or taking up appropriate disease management measures. Virus diseases occur throughout sugarcane growing states with severe crop losses due to ignorance about the disease or wrong perception that they do not cause serious damage to sugarcane. In addition, varietal degeneration caused by the non-fungal diseases has been a major threat to cane cultivation in the country. Hence, healthy seed cane nurseries based on meristem culture combined with molecular diagnosis became more relevant to rejuvenate the elite varieties affected by varietal degeneration. The review focuses on emerging diseases that pose challenges to cane cultivation in India and overall disease management strategies to be adopted to successfully manage the diseases.