IBM abstract

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Oral presentations To study anticlastogenic effect of Spirulina against arsenic using Zebra fish as a model organism *Sayantani Chanda , Madhumita Joarder Mukhopadhay , T.V.Ramachandra³ 2 1 1,3 Energy and Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore 2 Institute of Genetic Engineering, Kolkata Maulana Abul Kalam Azad University of Technology *Presenting author Arsenic, a known ground water contaminant, is a potent toxic chemical. Nowadays Arsenic toxicity causes different health hazards to common people exposed to contaminated water. To reduce deleterious toxic effect of Arsenic it is a big challenge for researcher to find out the easy and cheaper way. The study aims to explore the possibilities of using Spirulina which can ameliorate the toxic effect of Arsenic by its antagonistic properties in zebra fish. We use zebra fish as a model organism which uses as indicator for aquatic pollution study. In this experiment 10 ml stock solution sodium arsenite (30mg dissolved in 100ml) is used. Blood was collected from fish gills. Slides were made for micronucleus from blood drops. From the experiment we observed, when treated with only spirulina the total number of normal cells 185, micronucleous 16 and abnormalities 8.64%. Again when treated with only sodium arsenite, total number of normal cells 180, micronucleous 59 and abnormalities 32.77%. Further when treated with sodium arsenite + Spirulina, total number of normal cells 171 micronucleous 27 and abnormalities 15.78%. Result of control gives total number of normal cells 170, micronucleous 5 and abnormalities 2.94%. The present study shows that Spirulina a known antioxidant food, already used by human being is able to decrease moderately the incidence of micronucleus formation. Keywords: arsenic; spirulina; micronucleous. 48 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Endorsing urban forests as potential carbon sinks in smart cityscape: Lessons from Nagpur, India Ajay Singh, *Shalini Dhyani and Shruti Lahoti * Presenting author Anthropogenic emissions from cities particularly carbon dioxide have increased over the past epochs. Present challenges rest how we can offset and balance carbon by upkeep or increasing its storage inside urban forests. Nagpur is one of the greenest cities of India and in the era of rapid urbanization. In recognition of the importance of urban forests as potential reservoirs of carbon, present study was carried out in urban forest of Seminary Hills, Nagpur, India. To understand the overall structure and composition of the forest, phyto-sociological analysis and biodiversity indices were assessed. Estimation of the carbon stored in dominant trees was carried out following non-destructive allometric method. Analysis provided 18 tree species that belong to 10 families with 6 dominant tree species. The maximum carbon storage was observed in Hardwickia binata (76.30 tC ha ) -1 followed by 17.04 tC ha in Tectona grandis and 1.19 tC ha in Boswellia serrata. -1 -1 Carbon stock in other co-dominant species were Terminalia bellirica (76.57 KgC ha - -1 1 ), Gardenia resinifera (1118.6 gC ha ) and (Terminalia arjuna (84.8 gC ha ). Total -1 urban stock of dominant trees in Seminary Hills urban forest was observed to be -1 94.53±39.6 t C ha . Urban forest’s management can be a significant REDD+ (reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation in developing countries) strategy for enhancement of carbon stock. Conservation of urban forests is significant for achieving sustainable development goals (Goal 15) and Aichi targets (Target 15). It is highly imperative to conserve urban forests and promote them as a potential commodity in carbon credit markets. Key words: Biomass, Carbon sequestration, Carbon stock, Nagpur, Smart city, Urban forest. 49 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Oral presentations Mangalajodi (Chilka) Odisha- waterfowl conservation with participation of poachers and hunters Nanda Kishore Bhujabal , *Shibaji Charan Nayak 2 1 1 2 Vice Chairman Wild Orissa, Wild Tiger Conservation Program, Wild Orissa *[email protected] Chilika Lake in the state of Orissa is unique from the perspective of avi-faunal diversity. This Ramsar Wetland harbours many species of birds, many of which are residents in this largest brackish water lake in Asia. India has witnessed many approaches at wildlife conservation. In most cases in India there are government initiated measures at conserving India’s natural heritage. An initiative to address the problem of poaching of waterfowl and ensuring their conservation including conservation of their habitat has been carried out by Wild Orissa, an organization outside the government, since 1996. Understanding that involvement of poachers and hunters, who are a major stakeholder in illicit poaching and traffic and trade in wildlife, efforts were successfully made to ensure their participation in containing poaching of waterfowl in the Chilika Lake. Wild Orissa constituted a bird protection committee called the Sri Sri Mahavir Pakshi Surakshya Samiti in the year 2000. At the same time what was also critical was Wild Orissa facilitated the involvement of Odisha Wildlife Department, Chilika Development Authority, Bombay Natural History Society, etc., who provided resources and expertise in this initiative, was facilitated. This initiative at waterfowl conservation with the participation of poachers and hunters is a model unique in its practice in India’s conservation history. In a complex world of conflicting demands placed by multifarious consuming sectors, conservation of wetlands and their bio-diversity is one of paramount importance. This exercise of conservation has had a ripple effect including that of recharging of the food chain, sustainability of the delicate ecosystems, ensuring generation of gainful employment for the local people, acting as a beacon for initiation of similar practices around the world, as a carbon sink, and as a measure for recharging our underground acquifers. One of critical achievements in this conservation of wetlands and biodiversity is improvement of socio-economic conditions of local community. Rarely has a wildlife conservation model involving one time hunters been successful and that too sustained over a decade. Certain important aspects required to be put in place which includes ensuring that one time poachers and hunters are involved at every stage, holding regular consultations with local stakeholders, introducing sustainable activities not detrimental to local ecology, introducing environmentally friendly practices, organizing strong awareness programs, effective coordination with government agencies, facilitating an effective media and civil society interface and providing a strong base for research and putting in place an effective feedback mechanism. This approach in wildlife conservation has ensured empowering local community in 50 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract conservation of biodiversity by making law breakers as primary stakeholders in lawful implementation of public policy viz. wildlife conservation. By providing alternative income generating options and providing a transparent approach it has been ensured that Efficiency, Equity, Effectiveness and Economy are achieved. The latent benefit of ingraining a sense of self work, voluntary approach, self induced discipline, etc., while undertaking waterfowl and wildlife conservation work by the villagers of Mangalajodi, also led to self belief, and self importance, all of which has led to a stage where a brigade for conservation for the wildernesses has been created. Today commerce and business interests and private initiatives appear to gain public space, but Mangalajodi is a shining example of sustainability, effectiveness, longevity and perseverance. It is Wild Orissa endeavor that it continues to practice them. Key words: Wild Orissa, Mangalajodi, Chilka, Waterfowl Conservation, Poachers & Hunters, Bird Protection Committee, Odisha, Sri Sri Mahavir Pakshi Surakshya Samiti 51 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Oral presentations Survey and documentation of soil arthropod fauna in conventional, organic and bio-rational tea plantations of Assam with special emphasis on Acari fauna 1 *Somnath Roy , Ranjida Ahmed , A.K.Sanyal , S.K. Gupta 3 1 2 1 Entomology Department, Tocklai Tea Research Institute, Jorhat, Assam 2 West Bengal Biodiversity Board, Kolkata 3 Medicinal Plants Research & Extension Centre, Ramakrishna Mission Ashrama, Narendrapur, Kolkata * [email protected] Soil arthropods are one of the important functional animal groups in soil food web which have central functions in soil health by decomposing organic matter and improving soil porosity. The results of the present study provide the first glimpse of soil arthropod abundance and their seasonal variation within different agro- ecosystem viz., conventional tea garden (CTE); organic tea garden (OTE) and bio- rational tea garden (BTE) in tea plantation of Assam during August 2016 – January 2018. Present study indicates that abundance of soil arthropod fauna varies with different agro-practices and exhibits a fluctuating trend according to season. In general soil arthropod population shows maximum in post monsoon (October- November), moderate in monsoon (June- September) and winter (December- February) and minimum in summer (March-May). The study reveals that among all the selected sites, OTE shows more abundance of soil arthropod than BTE and CTE. Nine groups of arthropod are collected so far from all the sampling sites, which are classified as Acari, Araneae, Isopoda, Myriapoda, Diplura, Collembola, Isoptera, Hymenoptera and Coleoptera. Among all soil arthropods, Acari are found to be the most pre-dominant group. The acarine fauna collected from the sites belongs to 48 species, out of which 18 are included in Cryptostigmata (Oribatida), 26 in Mesostigmata and 4 in Prostigmata. Among the acari, oribatid mites are most abundant than the other mite groups. Of the acarine fauna recorded, Gymnolaelaps sp., Macrocheles sp., Amblyseius sp., Arctoseus sp., Blattisocius sp., Lasioseius sp., Melichares sp., Proctolaelaps sp., Parasitus consanguinus are restricted to only organic tea garden. Similarly, Parasitus sp., Trematura sp. and Antennoseius sp. are restricted to conventional tea garden. The role of mite species as potential bio- indicator in tea soil will be confirmed after completion of the study. Key words: Soil arthropod; diversity; acari; seasonal incidence; soil health 52 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Consequences of varying salinity and temperature on oxygen consumption of Mystus gulio: perspectives of stasis and distribution in the estuaries of Indian Sundarban *Sourav Paul, Saheli Kumar, Mahammed Moniruzzaman, Suman Bhusan Chakraborty Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, India *[email protected] Increasing salinity of Sundarban (UNESCO World Heritage) estuaries is a threat to stasis and distribution of its fish populations. Length Specific Oxygen Consumption (LOC) of Mystus gulio was evaluated in salinity 5, 10, 15, and 20 at 20C, 24C, 28C, and 32C to assess the stress related to salinity and temperature changes. LOC in the high-salinity-high-temperature was significantly less than low-salinity-moderate-temperature scenarios. High-salinity-high-temperature scenario (e.g. salinity > 15 and temperature > 28C) might have reduced the aerobic scope of the sub-adults of Mystus gulio. Increasing salinity (could be up to 25%) of the Sundarban and erection of dam in the upstream of the Ganges are escalating the abiotic variability of the estuaries of Sundarban. This is possibly not the optimum energetic scenario of early life stages of many fish (like Mystus) of these estuaries. Responses such as reduction in the pelagic activities in the day time, shifting distribution towards the relatively cooler oligohaline reaches of the Hooghly-Matla estuarine complex, and in extreme case mass mortality cannot be ruled out. Keywords: Estuary; Climate change; Fish, Stress-physiology 53 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Oral presentations Diversity of Scarabaeinae (Scarabaeidae: Coleoptera) fauna of Nadia district, West Bengal, India *Subhankar Kumar Sarkar, Bhim Prasad Kharel Department of Zoology, University of Kalyani, Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India. *[email protected] Scarab beetles composing the family Scarabaeidae is one of the largest families in the insect order Coleoptera. The family consists of about 27,800 species under 600 genera and 11 subfamilies worldwide. Of this the subfamily Scarabaeinae includes 13 tribes and is represented by over 5,000 species under 234 genera. Indian species are however considered within the two tribes Scarabaeini and Coprini. Beetles of the subfamily Scarabaeinae, also known as dung beetles or coprophagous beetles play significant role to the environment. They by burying and consuming dung improve nutrient recycling and soil structure. Many countries introduce these dung beetles for the benefit of animal husbandry. On the other hand some of them are also reported as serious pests of forestry and agriculture. Despite its importance in both these sectors, the subfamily is poorly known, particularly from this part of the globe and demands serious revisionary studies. It is with this background surveys were conducted to explore the dung beetle diversity of Nadia district of West Bengal, India. Sampling was carried out in every month of each calendar year during the period of survey. For collection pit fall traps, UV light traps and hand picking techniques were used. Dung of various animals was also examined to make collections. The collected samples were studied under Stereozoom Binocular Microscopes and identified up to species level using relevant and current literatures. Present communication is the first report on the diversity of the members belonging to the subfamily Scarabaeinae occurring in the study area. The faunistic investigation revealed in the recognition of 12 species distributed over the two tribes Scarabaeini and Coprini. The district is dominated by the members of the Genus Onthophagus. Keywords: Scarabaeinae; Scarabaeidae; Diversity; Nadia; West Bengal 54 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Indian skimmer Rynchops albicollis breeding in Odisha – conservation requirements Diptiranjan Patra, Chinamaya Bhujabal, *Suchitra Sahoo Wild Orissa, BJ-29, BJB Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa. 751014. *[email protected] Indian Skimmer Rynchops albicollis is listed as Vulnerable by the IUCN, because its population is undergoing a rapid decline. State of Odisha has been a major area for this species and it has been documented that this was resident. Wild Orissa has been monitoring this species in River Mahanadi. During 2015 observation of large number of juveniles and adolescent birds in Naraj-Mundali, indicating breeding in these areas of the river, was made. During 2015 Wild Orissa addressed the central and state government for notifying the Naraj- Mundali stretch of the river as an eco-sensitive zone for the Chandaka-Dampara Wildlife Sanctuary in order to safeguard the breeding for Indian Skimmer. During 2016 the Wildlife Department Odisha has ensured protection to a stretch of River Mahanadi near Munduli where the Indian Skimmer has been found to be breeding from month of February. Around 64 nests and 180 eggs were reported. Disturbance from planned development such as proposed railway and road bridges, and increased removal of water for irrigation could threaten skimmer habitat in the area. These issues need addressing if the species is to be conserved effectively in Naraj-Munduli. There is an imperative need to Ensure for maintaining the Skimmer habitat, Avoid further degradation or loss of critical breeding and life cyle site in River Mahanadi, Restrict development to areas where its impact on Skimmer habitat is minimal, Educate the community about Skimmers and other birds’ conservation, Collaborate with the primary stakeholders (Chandaka Wildlife Division) in the delivery of key messages about birds conservation, discourage human intrusion in bird habitat, Monitor population of coastal birds in other wintering and staging sites on the river Mahanadi, Collaborate with relevant organisations (BNHS, ZSI, SACON etc). Key words: Indian Skimmer, Rynchops albicollis, Wild Orissa, Mahanadi, Chandaka 55 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Oral presentations Elephant corridor as an approach for conserving elephants in Odisha- case of Telkoi Pallahara elephant corridor Nanda Kishore Bhujabal, *Sudhanwa Das Wild Orissa, BJB Nagar, Bhubaneswar, Orissa 751014 *[email protected] The fragmentation of wildlife habitats is one of the major threats to the long-term conservation of species. Large animals like elephants, which require extensive areas for survival, are more affected because of loss of habitat contiguity. Biological corridors have been suggested as one of the measures that help overcome the ill- effects of fragmentation ensuring genetic exchange within and between populations. Corridors connecting elephant habitats have thus been the topic of discussion for the last few decades. The Asian elephant once possessed a vast kingdom that ranged across southern Asia, from the Tigris–Euphrates basin in the west across the Indian subcontinent into Indo-China, various islands in the southeast, and northward up to the Yangtze river and even beyond. The tragedy facing the Asian elephant today– is existence in isolation. India, too, comes close in the number of distinct elephant populations across the four regions they are found, with little chance of intermingling as nature would have otherwise permitted. The long-term survival of a large-bodied, long-ranging animal such as the elephant can be ensured only through maintaining viable populations within viable habitats. For maintaining viable habitats it is vital that we maintain large, unfragmented landscapes. Settlements and the resulting biotic pressure in corridors are serious issues and throughout India. India does, fortunately, have a few areas where the above conditions are still met. The problem is that even here the options of keeping these landscapes without disintegrating further are fast disappearing. As the country moves into the high gear of economic growth, the symbols of development–roads, railway lines, dams and canals, pipelines, mines, expansion of settlement and cultivation–threaten to permanently rip apart the tattered habitat fabric. In many places, the linkages literally hang by a thread and other wildlife through protecting and strengthening existing corridors, or creating corridors where this is feasible and the situation not too late. Each corridor represents a different situation in terms of and ownership, importance, feasibility and costs. Orissa has about 57% of the elephant habitat in central India with 1800–2000 elephants spread over about 11,000 km2. Nearly 44% of the elephant habitat falls within eleven Protected Areas. Three Elephant Reserves, viz. Mayurbhanj, Mahanadi and Sambalpur have also been declared. The South Keonjhar plateau and adjacent areas includes the Deogan, Ghatgaon and Telkoi Ranges of Keonjhar Forest Division and Kamakhyanagar East and West Ranges of Dhenkanal Forest division spread over 2600 km2 area. Considerable deterioration of this elephant habitat has occurred due to various reasons. This, coupled with encroachment, has led to fragmentation of the habitat. In the Keonjhar Forest Division, 45,146 ha. 56 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract land has been leased out for mining, although not all of it is being mined presently. Mining, irrigation canals, encroachment and monoculture plantations have led to a shrinkage and degradation of elephant habitat and increased conflict. Key words: Elephant Corridor, Odisha Elephant Conservation, Telkoi, Pallahara, Wild Orissa 57 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning (Poster presentations)

Abstract Impact of different pest management practices on natural enemy population in tea plantations of Assam 1 *Anjali Km. Prasad , Somnath Roy , Akanksha Nagpal , Suzzane Neave 2 3 1 1 Entomology Department, Tocklai Tea Research Institute, Tea Research Association, Cinnamara, Jorhat, Assam-785008, India 2 CABI South Asia-India, NASC Complex, PUSA, New Delhi, India 3 CABI, Nosworthy Way, Wallingford, UK 7 *Presenting Author Tea is a perennial monoculture which is highly infested by thousands of pests. In common practice, synthetic pesticides have been used to control pests. However, at present use of less pesticides in tea plantation has been encourage to get quality tea which can have a high market value both in national as well as in international market. Conserving and encouraging natural enemy population is one of the important practices under non-chemical pest management strategy. In the present study, occurrence of natural enemies with a special emphasis to spider population on tea in three different management practices has been studied in three different location of Assam. The three management practices were: 1. Ecological Crop Management (ECM: no use of chemical pesticides); 2. Integrated pest management (IPM: Use of only CIB recommended dose of synthetic pesticides); 3. Garden practice (GP: as per the practices in Garden). The study showed that in general ECM recorded the highest number of natural enemy population followed by IPM and GP. Spiders are most common and constituted the 50-90% of the total natural enemy count. Number of spiders captured during monsoon was significantly higher than pre-monsoon and post monsoon count. Family Salticidae was found to be the most abundant group as most number of genus of captured spiders belong to this family. Overall, it can be concluded that though ecologically managed plantations encourage the spider diversity along with different natural enemies, integrated managed plot can also be adopted for better natural enemy population if going organic is not at all been an option. Keywords: Natural enemies; spiders; tea plantations; ecological crop management; integrated pest management 59 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Raising public awareness against asymptomatic uropathogenic Escherichia coli in males and non-pregnant females -a study on urine samples, isolated from hospitalized patients of Kolkata, an eastern region of India * Arunita Ghosh, Mandira Mukherjee Department of Biochemistry and Medical Biotechnology, School of Tropical Medicine, Kolkata. *[email protected] Uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPECs),the most common etiological agent of Urinary tract infections(UTIs),can cause both symptomatic infections and asymptomatic bacteriuria(ABU), which often contributes to significant morbidity worldwide. In contrast to its usual avirulent nature, ABU were also found to bear considerably similar antimicrobial resistance pattern and virulence repertoire like the symptomatic ones.So identifying and characterizing these ABU is an utmost need of the present era for clinicians and microbiologists to formulate strategies to combat against their increasing pathogenicity. Thus we aimed to identify and characterize asymptomatic UPECs with respect to their antibiogram profile, adhesins’ prevalence and fimbrial adhesin’ expression,that was further compared to E.coli isolated from symptomatic patients in Kolkata,India.200 urine samples, collected from hospitalized patients(both asymptomatic and symptomatic) were selected for this study. E.coli was biochemically detected in 44% and 32%culture positive asymptomatic(50%female;50%male;mean age- 44.8years) and symptomatic(70%female; 30%male;mean age-48.2years)isolates respectively.95%asymptomatic and 100%symptomatic isolates were multidrug resistant(MDR).Adhesin analysis of 8 genes (fimH,papC,papEF,papGI, papGII,papGIII,sfa and afa) by individual PCR revealed almost similar adhesin profile in both the groups.All asymptomatic and symptomatic isolates showed mannose sensitive haemagglutination, indicating type1fimbrial(fimH) expression, although levels varied.Weak mannose resistant haemagglutination was observed in only 35%symptomatic isolates, indicative of Pfimbrial expression. This is the first study from Kolkata, India reporting this excessively high incidence of MDR among asymptomatic UPECs which indicates, the indiscriminate antibiotics usage without proper prescription policies, which is really alarming. Furthermore remarkable incidence of adhesins in asymptomatic UPECs provides evidence of an enhancement of the pathogenic pool of the UPECs. Thus, asymptomatic UPECs, exhibits a major public health concern in India and must be monitored intricately at the molecular level for efficient management of this uropathogen. Keywords: uropathogenic Escherichia coli;asymptomatic bacteriuria;multidrug resistance;fimbrial adhesin’ expression 60 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Management through utilization: A review on the profitable properties of the invasive alien plant species of India Barnini Bhattacharya , Satabdi Bhattacharjee , Sandipan Chatterjee , Neepa 1, 2 1 1 Banerjee , *Shankarashis Mukherjee 1 1 1 Human Performance Analytics and Facilitation Unit Department of Physiology, University Colleges of Science and Technology, University of Calcutta Rashbehari Shiksha Prangan 92 Acharya Prafulla Chandra Road, Kolkata 700 009, India 2 Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata, India [email protected] Considered as the second biggest threat to biodiversity, Invasive Alien Species or IAS is defined as an alien species which becomes established in natural or semi- natural ecosystems or habitats, is an agent of change, and threatens native biological diversity (IUCN). Any species, irrespective of its taxonomic group can become invasive when taken out of its natural environment. Since IAS possesses expeditious growth rates, broad dispersal capabilities, large and rapid reproductive output and extensive environmental tolerance, eradication of their existence by means of mechanical, chemical and biological control have failed to produce satisfactory results till date. Therefore, management of IAS through proper utilization of their beneficial properties may help to combat their rapid expansion. Arnica Montana is used as a tonic and sedative and has anti-inflammatory and anti- microbial properties. Lantana camara, a widely recognized IAS has several medicinal properties like anti-spasmodic, anti-rheumatic, anti-microbial and so on. Mimosa pudica, commonly known as Touch-me-not plant is used in treating toothache, amoebic dysentery and like. Parthenium hysterophorus, another widely known IAS has potent anti-malarial and anti-tumour properties. Blumea lacera is used in perfumery, as a flavouring agent in food preparations, production of insect repellent creams and like. Prosopis chilensis and Lantana camara are used in the production of charcoal from woods and in making furniture. Leaves of Alternanthera philoxerioides are rich in Zn and Fe and are consumed as leafy vegetables. Seeds of Leucaena latisiliqua are used as a tea and coffee substitute. The leaves of Mikania plant are rich in Vitamins A and C. In this backdrop a review work has been carried out on the medicinal, nutritional and economic values of some of the Invasive Alien Plant Species of India, with special reference to those found in West Bengal and Western Ghats. Keywords: IAS of West Bengal, IAS of Western Ghats, Profitable Properties, Biodiversity Management 61 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Land snail diversity in urban habitats of Kolkata, India: a spatial scale analysis *Gargi Nandy, Swarnali Mukherjee, Soujita Pramanik, Sampa Banerjee, Himangshu Barman, Goutam K Saha, Gautam Aditya Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019. India * Presenting author Land snails (Gastropoda; Pulmonata) include several distinct lineages of terrestrial gastropod constituting about six percent of total species on Earth. As an integral part of terrestrial ecosystem land snails execute diverse ecological roles, including pollination, recycling of calcium and nutrients, decomposing detritus material and integrity of the food web of the community. In Indian context, excepting for few pest species, little exploration has been made to elucidate the role of the snails in the maintenance of the ecosystem integrity and functions. A growing concern about the land snails in India is the degradation and decline of the suitable landscapes, particularly in urban areas. Of particular concern is the wide range of land snail species of India that are smaller in size but act as indicator species showing sensitivity to environmental pollution. In the present commentary diversity and distribution of small sized land snails in urban habitats of Kolkata had been carried out through quadrat methods. A record of the minute land snails and their preferred microhabitat in the urban context is being provided to promote conservation in the urban habitats and sustenance of the ecosystem services derived thereof. The results indicate that the snails are associated with diverse habitat conditions in urban landscapes, enhancing the environmental quality as well as sustenance of community. As a conservation effort the identified habitat conditions like bushes, gardens, vegetation plots and trees should be given priority to sustain the population of diverse species of land snails. Keywords: Land snail; ecological role; species diversity; microhabitat; network analysis 62 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Structural Diversity in Teleostean Pineal Organ Mohua Seth Dept. of Physiology, HMM College For Women, Dakshineshwar Kolkata-700035 [email protected] The pineal organ has the greatest mystery in the physiology of animal organs. This organ reflects high degree of evolutionary and adaptive plasticity both in structure as well as in function. It appears to have undergone a clear transformation from being primarily a sensory organ in lower vertebrates to a major endocrine gland in birds and mammals. In fish it is regarded as a rudimentary third eye and takes part in direct photoreception as well as secretory functions. The organization and structure of different parts of pineal complex like pineal stalk, end vesicle and dorsal sac vary in different marine and freshwater teleosts. The pineal parenchymal arrangements and the parenchymal cell types also vary among different species of teleosts. In some species there is a regional specialization of the pineal parenchyma with regard to different types of photoreceptor cells. The neuronal population in the teleostean pineal organs also shows impressive diversity due to the presence of AchE positive neurons, GABAergic neurons, CSF contacting neurons etc. in different teleosts. Thus the anatomical, structural and cellular diversities in teleostean pineal organ help in the regulation of pineal functions in different types of fishes. Keywords: Photoreception; pineal stalk; end vesicle; dorsal sac; pineal parenchyma 63 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Endophytic bacterial community of rice cultivated in the coastal saline zone of West Bengal 1 *Pranamita Kunda , 2, Paltu Kumar Dhal , Abhishek Mukherjee 2 1 1 Department of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Jadavpur University 2 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute * Presenting author Rice is one of the most important cereal crops and a staple food for more than half of the world’s population. West Bengal is the leading producer of rice in India. Several abiotic conditions including soil salinity affects rice productivity. A novel approach which has been gaining popularity worldwide is endophyte- mediated control for amelioration of various stress conditions. Endophytic bacteria are reported to have immense beneficial role in plant growth promotion as well as in plant defense activities. Characterizing the bacterial community and studying their mode of interaction with host plants is an exciting field of research in scientific community for the betterment of agriculture. However, work on endophytic bacteria isolated from rice has not been properly evaluated in India. In this study we wanted to explore the diversity of bacterial endophytes inhabiting rice plants growing in the Coastal saline zone of Sunderbans, West Bengal. This has been achieved through metagenomic sequencing of V3-V4 regions of bacterial 16S rRNA gene in the Illumina MiSeq platform. Our result identified the endophytic bacterial community; some of whom have potential plant growth promotion abilities as well as role in defence mechanisms of plants. Few genera identified in our study have not been reported previously as endophytes and most probably are unique endophytes of this region. This study has enumerated the diversity of endophytic bacteria from rice grown in the saline zone of West Bengal that would help us to design a better strategy for cultivation under abiotic stress condition. Keywords: Endophytic bacteria; metagenomics; otus; bacterial community composition 64 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Effect of environmental factors on the diversity of ecto- mycorrhizal association in the Fagaceae Family in Eastern Himalayas *Rounak Patra, Robert John Chandran Indian Institute of Science Education and Research, Kolkata * Presenting author Mycorrhizae are mutualistic, non-pathogenic associations of fungal species with roots of higher plants. They are known to have a significant influence on the host plant’s ability to acquire nutrients and withstand pathogens, and thereby influence plant growth and survival. Ecto-mycorrhizal associations, which are one of the most abundant and diverse mycorrhizal association, varies with the species and the environmental factors. However, the extent of the diversity of fungal associations as a function of environmental factors is not well known. With rapid environmental changes, mycorrhizal associations may be disrupted, altering plant species distributions and ecosystem function. We collected the root samples of Fagaceae family from Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in four adjacent altitudinal bands ranging from 1200 to 2800 meters above mean sea level. Using molecular methods, we confirmed the presence of ectomycorrhizal fungi. We also sampled soils to study nutrient status and measured climatic parameters to characterize environments at different elevations. Further, we have developed a protocol for the extraction of ectomycorrhizal DNA from root tips and the subsequent amplification using fungal-specific ITS primers. Sequencing and identification of EM species will give us more insight into this study. From soil analyses, we found that soil pH decreases with the elevation while the total organic carbon increases and plant available nitrogen decreases. Lower temperatures reduced enzymatic activity in higher elevations, decreasing the decomposition of organic matters, and reducing nitrogen availability. Elevation acts as a proxy to study the potential impact of climate changes on biotic interactions. Therefore, our study is likely to shed light on the potential climate change impacts. Keywords: Ecto-mycorrhiza; altitude; climate change 65 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Floral composition and soil properties of pristine forests in comparison to managed forests in Gangajalghati forest area of West Bengal, India 2 1 *Sanjeev Pandey , Kuntal Bakuli 1 Dept. of Botany, Banwarilal Bhalotia College, Asansol, West Burdwan, West Bengal, India, Pin. – 713303 2 Dept. of Statistics, Banwarilal Bhalotia College, Asansol, West Burdwan, West Bengal, India, Pin. – 713303 * Presenting author In this paper vegetational composition and soil properties of three pristine forests in the Gangajalghanti forest area, West Bengal, India have been compared with a semi and a fully man managed forest. Abundance, Basal Cover and Importance Value Index (IVI) of all species have been estimated. Biodiversity was estimated using a newer method of Jack-knifing the Shannon index to minimize sampling error introduced during field studies. Shorea robusta (sal) is the most prevalent tree in all three pristine forests whereas it is represented by Acacia auriculoformis (Akashmani) in two man managed forests. Other trees like, Buchaninia lanzan , Lannea coromandelica , Terminalia tomentosa , Soymida febrifuga, Madhuca latifolia, Semecarpus anacardium and Bridelia retusa are also well represented in the natural forests with some variation among the three. Two woody climbers, Erycibe paniculata and Butea superba are present in good numbers. Both the semi man managed forest (SMMF) and fully man managed forest (MMF) have an entirely different floral composition. Though, the SMMF shows the presence of Buchanania lanazan, Semecarpus anacardium and Lannaea coromandelica to some extent, MMF is in fact a monoculture of Acacia auriculoformis with shrubs and herbs under its canopy. The Shannon diversity index of pristine forest is much high in the range of 2.64 - 2.95 which in man managed forests ranges from 1.94 – 2.51. Soil properties viz, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), C/N ratio, water content (WC) and water holding capacity (WHC) are more favorable in the pristine forests compared to the two man managed forests. Key words: Pristine, man-managed, jack-knife, diversity, soil 66 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract PMQR and ESBL genes in uropathogenic E. coli: co-resistance and risk of co-transmission *Shreya Basu, Mandira Mukherjee Department of Biochemistry and Medical Biotechnology School of Tropical Medicine *[email protected] Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in humans are the most frequent bacterial disease, affecting both inpatients and outpatients worldwide. The most common organism causing UTIs worldwide (80%-85%) is Escherichia coli. In recent years, UTI management has become increasingly problematic due to the emergence of high resistance to first-line antibiotics among the causative bacteria, mainly among uropathogenic E. coli (UPEC) strains. Fluroquinolone and β-lactam group of antibiotics are the first choice for the treatment of infections caused by UPEC. Co- resistance against these groups of drugs has become an emerging problem implicating treatment complications. The aim of this study was to detect the co- resistance and risk of dissemination of plasmid mediated quinolone resistant (PMQR) genes and β-lactamase resistant determinants amongst the uropathogenic E. coli isolated from Kolkata, an eastern region of India. PMQR genes were detected in 50% (35/70) of the fluoroquinolone resistant isolates. These PMQR positive isolates were 42.8% ESBL producers and 51.4% β-lactamase inhibitor resistant (BLIR). Occurrence of aac(6’)Ib-cr gene in combination with blaTEM, blaCTX-M, blaOXA was observed (37.1%;13/35) to be the highest. Conjugal transfer under ciprofloxacin selection revealed co-transmission of PMQR and selective β-lactamase resistant genes from all the PMQR positive isolates. Therefore this present study indicates that the excessive usage of fluroquinolone may possibly result in selection of other resistant determinants (ESBL) and provide a risk of rapid dissemination of these resistant genes through horizontal gene transfer mechanism. Keywords: uropathogenic Escherichia coli; fluoroquinolone resistance; PMQR; ESBL; co- transmission 67 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations A review on importance of microphytobenthos with special emphasis on benthic-pelagic coupling *Swagata Sinha, Santanu Ray Systems Ecology & Ecological Modelling Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Visva- Bharati University, Santiniketan-731235 * Presenting author Microphytobenthos (MPB) are much less conspicuous than other groups of organisms occupying the benthic photic zone but are ecologically significant owing to their roles in benthic-pelagic coupling, nutrient cycling, association with macrophytes and as food source for many benthic as well as pelagic predators. The role of MPB in benthic–pelagic coupling plays an important role in not only maintaining resilience of the ecosystem but also increase productivity and regulate dynamics of the entire system. Many models estimate productivity of MPB characterised by a marked periodicity resulting from the periodic vertical migratory behaviour of MPB. Productivity of MPB is dependent on many factors such as irradiance, tidal waves, sediment texture, and nutrient availability and so on. However, most of these factors either regulate or are regulated by the migratory behaviour of MPB. Integrated models having both benthic and pelagic food web can be used to study the effects of MPB on pelagic productivity as well as that of the entire system. Since MPB are very sensitive ecological indicators the suggested model can be used to study the effect of anthropogenic stressors on the coupling links as well as the productivity of the system. Keywords: Microphytobenthos; microalgae; benthic-pelagic coupling; light attenuation 68 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Medicinal plant resources in sacred groves of south-western West Bengal 1 2 *Sayantani Chanda , Rajasri Ray , T.V.Ramachandra³ 1, ³Energy and Wetlands Research Group, Centre for Ecological Sciences, Indian Institute of Science,Bangalore 2 CEiBA Trust, Malda, West Bengal * Presenting author Sacred groves are traditionally protected forest or forest patches present in diverse locations and ecosystems. This study aims to develop a comprehensive idea on medicinal plants distribution and usage in sacred groves of south-western West Bengal. Information on ethno-medicinal plants has been collected from seven papers covering sacred grove of Purulia, Bakura and West Midnapore districts of West Bengal. 257 medicinal plant species under 213 genera and 71 families have been recorded from the study area.Primary analysis shows that Leguminosae is the dominant family (33 spp) followed by Apocynaceae (21spp) and Malvaceae (15spp).Senna and Ipomoea are dominant genera with highest number of species (4 spp each). The dominant plant form is herbs (37.35%) followed by trees (26.84%) and climbers (17.89%) Leaves have major use (25.48%), along with root (18.10%) and stem bark (11.14%).The study revealed that most of the informants agreed in the use of Ocimum tenuiflorum to treat cold that showed the highest fidelity level(100%).The high ICF value for cold(ICF 0.75,5 use reports,2 plant species) possibly showed that this ailment is common in the study area These small patches have multiple disturbance factors like grazing, agricultural encroachment, invasion and changing social perspective which put these medicinal plant resources under threat category. Administrative initiative, local awareness and thorough evaluation of these plant resources are key factors for long term survival of these groves. Keywords: sacred groves; medicinal plants; fidelity level and icf; threats; conservation 69 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Heavy metal distribution in soil and aquatic level in a semi urbanized ecozone of South 24 Parganas, West Bengal: a factor influencing the distribution of native firefly, Luciola substriata, a potential bio indicator *Srinjana Ghosh , Susanta Kumar Chakraborty 2 1 1 Department of Zoology, Bethune College, Kolkata, West Bengal 2 Department of Zoology, Vidyasagar University, Midnapore, West Bengal *[email protected] Intense anthropogenic activities in the present day have resulted in enriched level of toxic heavy metals in our immediate environmental components of air, water and soil/sediments, which were once deeply buried in the Earth. Continuous interactions among different structural components of soil and water ecosystems harboring an array of biodiversity components lead these toxic heavy metals to gain higher mobility and ultimately, they enter into food chain resulting in bio- accumulation as well as bio-magnification. Present study is an attempt to highlight the levels of some toxic metals in sediments and water at the preferred habitat of a firefly species, Luciola substriata, mostly inhabiting the aquatic macrophytes grown on the periphery of a macrophytes infested aquatic ecosystem. Study reveals that in sediments, among the metals, the levels of chromium (Cr) and lead (Pb) have been found to be considerably higher with estimated values of 80ppm and 34.4 ppm respectively in comparison to Earth crust. Very low N/P ratio (0.08) together with high pH (8.5-9.0) in water indicates the possibility of developing eutrophication. Although, the amount of dissolved metals (<1.0 ppm) was found to be negligible but some fraction of metals was supposed to have entered from sediments into the macrophytes from soil-water interface and bio-accumulated in these insects through trophic interactions. The impact of such trend of biomagnifications and recorded level of bioconcentration factors on the population density, behavior and functional ecological role of this aesthetically celebrated bioluminescent coleopteran species have been discussed in the light of developing holistic conservation strategies for the ecosystem as a whole and this flagship insect species in particular. Key Words: bioaccumulation, biomagnification, bioconcentration, bioindicator, conservation, firefly, flagship species, toxic heavy metal levels 70 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Size-variable Copper Nanoformulations as antibacterial agent against Xanthomans oryzae causing bacterial leaf blight disease in rice 1, 2 *Tapodhara Datta Majumdar , Mukesh Singh , Chandan Kumar Ghosh , 3 1 Abhishek Mukherjee 2 1 School of Material Science and Nanotechnology, Jadavpur University 2 Indian Statistical Institute, AERU, Giridih 3 Department of Life Science and Biotechnology, Haldia Institute of Technology, Haldia. *[email protected] Xanthomonas oryzae(Xoo), known as one of the most devastating disease causing bacteria in rice i.e., bacterial leaf blight, is highly developing resistance against pesticides and antibiotics, therefore new techniques are required for its control. In this work we report copper nanoparticles (CuNPs), as an efficient alternative to commercial antibiotics for controlling Xoo. Copper nanoparticles of four different sizes are synthesized and their antibacterial activity against Xoo was investigated with their size as the main comparative parameter. The comparison is done on the basis of their antimicrobial activity and mechanism of the concerned effect by studying their impact on various structural and functional building unit of the bacteria. The copper nanoparticles are seen to produce high amount of hydroxyl radicals in solution, which is proposed to be the basis of their mechanism of action against the bacteria. Confirmation of the CuNP formation and its size was done by XRD, and shape was determined by TEM. The mechanistic approach was done by using fluorescence spectroscopy, fluorescence microscopy and SEM for studying the effect on membrane integrity; gel electrophoresis for effect on genomic DNA and UV spectroscopy for lipid peroxidation. Conclusively, CuNPs can be used as an efficient alternative to commercial antibiotics as an antibacterial agent against Xanthomonas oryzae. Keywords: Xanthomonas oryzae; CuNps; XRD; TEM; SEM; UV spectroscopy; fluorescence spectroscopy and microscopy 71 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Biodiversity and ecosystem functioning Poster presentations Conservation of amphibians in agroforestry systems of Northeast India *Yashmita-Ulman, Madhu Sharma, Awadhesh Kumar Dept. of Forestry, NERIST, Nirjuli, Arunachal Pradesh, India * Presenting author The Northeast Indian biodiversity hotspot faces severe threats from conversion of forests into commercial plantations, 'jhum' cultivation, encroachment of forest lands, grazing, habitat destruction, human-wildlife conflict etc. endangering the survival of several taxas. Many of these northeastern states of India have traditional agroforestry systems in practice for their livelihood which provide shelter, breeding space and habitats for several wildlife species on seasonal and permanent basis. The contribution of such agroforestry systems in conserving flora and fauna is less explored. Present study attempts to compare amphibian species diversity in three different agroforestry systems namely homegardens, tea plantations and agrisilvicultural systems during rainy season in Sonnitpur district of Assam. A total of 13 species of amphibians were found belonging to 5 families. Highest diversity and species richness was found in homegardens (H=2.16, S=13) followed by tea plantations (H=1.98, S=9) and least diversity and species richness was found in agrisilvicultural systems (H=1.65, S=6). Homegardens with their multilayered canopy structure similar to forest have better potential to conserve amphibians as compared to that of tea plantations and agrisilvicultural systems. Tea plantations which have shaded trees prove to be a better contender as compared to that of agrisilvicultural systems. The agrisilvicultural systems might not be very suitable habitat as it is moist only during certain months in a year therefore might be showing lowest amphibian diversity. Overall, it may be concluded that in the era of decreasing forest area, agroforestry systems might be an option for conserving species in these biodiversity hotspots. 72 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Business and biodiversity (Oral presentations)

Business and biodiversity Oral presentations An effect of globalisation on eating pattern of Indian women and life-style diseases associated with it 2 1 *Bhaswati Chaudhuri , Bulbul Thakur , Indranil Saha , Binata 3 1 Nayak 1 Department of Home Science, Viharilal College, University of Kolkata, India 2 Department of Physiology, Raja Peary Mohan College, University of Kolkata, India 3 Department of Community Medicine, IQ City Medical College, Durgapur, West Bengal, India *[email protected] The term ‘Globalisation’ is a broad one and a much debated issue due to its significance and relevance in today’s perspective. It has a huge impact not only on economic processes but also on food, health and lifestyle. Globalization of food leads to dietary transition among people across the globe with the replacement of traditional pattern of eating by western culinary practices. People nowadays have easy accessibility to varieties of food which may be linked with global food promotions, marketing and advertisement. Social interactions on food choices, use of genetic engineering in foods as well as modern food technologies also play a vital role in influencing eating pattern of an individual. Altered food choices may be ascribed to exchange of views, information and ideas, decision-making processes and lowering of barriers across borders regarding movement of goods. With the rapid urbanisation and international economy being in close vicinity to domestic economy, the mindset of people have changed with more inclination towards consumption of refined carbohydrates, sugars, animal and animal products, protective foods, ready-to-eat, ready-to-cook processed foods and decreased consumption of whole grains and vegetables as a result people fall easy prey to life-style diseases as obesity, coronary heart diseases, diabetes, hypertension etc. The present review is a part of work done, to assess the influence of globalization on eating pattern of today’s women with its serious outcome on health in the form of chronic non-communicable diseases. Women are selected in this study as they are one of the important sections of society, struggling hard to balance household chores and work simultaneously at the cost of their own health. Keywords: Globalization; dietary transition; urbanization; life-style diseases; processed foods 74 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Behavioral Pattern of Spot and Futures Prices in Augmenting Price Discovery Mechanism of Major Spices in India *Soumik Dey, Kanchan Sinha, Herojit Singh, L. Narsimaiaha, P. K. Sahu Department of Agricultural Statistics, Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Mohanpur, Nadia-741252 *Presenting author Agribusiness and marketing are gaining momentum day by day, aiming towards the well-being of the farming community. Unfortunately the agriculture sector needs to counter not only the vagaries of weather but also the price fluctuations. In this direction forward markets or commodity market is a useful tool to hedge sharp price fluctuations, protecting the interests of both farmers and consumers. Price discovery is one of the major functions of the commodity market. This study makes an effort to understand the price discovery mechanism by identifying the transmission of price signals between spot and futures market of four major spices (chilli, turmeric, cumin and coriander) that are traded in National Commodity and Derivative Exchange (NCDEX), India using daily price data from October 2015 to April 2017. Econometric methods viz., Cointegration test, Granger Causality test, Vector Error Correction Model (VECM) is used during the perusal to assess the causal relationship between spot and futures market. Cointegration analysis reveals long run associationship between spot and futures prices, except for coriander. The empirical findings for chilli, turmeric and cumin state both spot and futures market play leading role in the price discovery process and are informationally efficient in reacting to each other. On the other hand uni- directional causality is evident from futures to spot price in case of coriander. The results obtained expected to understand the information flow across the market, which in turn will help in price formulation and market investment strategies. Keywords: Agriculture; commodity market; cointegration; price discovery; VECM 75 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology (Oral presentations)

Abstract Bomolochid (Copepoda, Crustacea) diversity on edible marine fishes along the Cochin coast, India 1 *Drisya O. K , Sudha Kappalli 2 1 Post Graduate Department of Zoology and Research Centre, Sree Narayana College, Kannur, Kerala, India- 670 007 2 Department of Animal Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragode, Kerala, India -671316 *[email protected] Crustaceans are diverse and ubiquitous group of invertebrates preferring aquatic life with different levels of adaptation. Most of them exhibit parasitism, infesting both vertebrates and invertebrates. Most of the parasitic crustaceans belong to Isopoda, Branchiura and Copepoda. Parasitic copepods are significant in terms of diversity and economic importance in aquaculture. Among the parasitic copepod families reported on edible marine fishes so far, Bomolochidae is one of the most speciose contains approximately 20 valid species. Present paper reports bomolochid diversity on edible marine fishes of Cochin coast (Kerala, India).The degree of parasitisation was assessed in terms of prevalence, intensity and host specificity and site specificity. Out of 4761 fishes coming under 47 species 38 genera and 25 families, 124 members coming under 10 species 10 genera 7 families showed infestation with three bomolochid copepod genera such as Bomolochus, Nothobomolochus, and Pseudorbiticolax. Among them, Bomolochus dominates with 5 species (B.multiceros, B.decapteri, B.hemiramphi, B.megaceros, B.selaroides.), Nothobomolochus and Pseudorbitocolax represent respectively 3 (N.kanagurta, N.denticulatus, N.gerresi) and 1 species (Pseudorbitacolax varnae). The prevalence and intensity of each species and their host –parasitic interactions are discussed in the present paper. Key Words: diversity; bomolochidae; parasitic copepods; prevalence; intensity 77 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology Oral presentations Structure of meiofaunal assemblages from sediments of different mangrove habitats at Sundarbans *Moumita Ghosh, Sumit Mandal Department of Life Sciences; Presidency University; 86/1 College Street, Kolkata-700073 *[email protected] We investigated meiofaunal community from the sediments of five mangrove species, namely, Aegiceras corniculatum, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Avicennia alba, Rhizophora mangle and Sonneratia caseolaris, at Bali Island in the worlds’ largest mangrove ecosystem of Sundarbans, India. Total meiofaunal densities of five mangrove vegetation types were: 1377 ± 316.02; 1210 ± 260.02; 1731 ± 349.65; 1348 ± 273.69 and 3102 ± 771.04 ind. 10 cm -2 for Aegiceras corniculatum, Bruguiera gymnorrhiza, Avicennia alba, Rhizophora mangle and Sonneratia caseolaris respectively. Among different mangrove species, Sonneratia caseolaris had the highest density with the lowest in Bruguiera gymnorrhiza. A total of nine taxa were recorded from the sediment of different mangrove habitats. In terms of percentage composition free-living nematodes dominated among meiofauna (ranged from 61% - 76%). The vertical profile of meiofaunal composition suggested upper 3-4 cm contained 90% of total meiofauna, although they were present up to 15 cm depth. Other taxa such as harpacticoid copepods, kinorhynch, ostracods, foraminifera, polychaete, halacarid mite, copepod nauplii and bivalve juvenile were also recorded. In this study, environmental variables partly explained meiofaunal community structure. Availability of food sources such as phaeopigments, Chl. a, organic carbon and sediment texture controlled meiofaunal distribution. For better understanding the complexities between mangroves and meiofauna, investigation of their taxonomy and ecological interactions would be prerequisite in future. Key words: Free-living nematodes; phaeopigments; mangrove; meiofauna; Sundarbans 78 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Parasitic crustaceans infecting the Shrimp Scad, Alepes djedaba Forsskål, 1775 (Perciformes, Carangidae): a comparative study on its occurrence along the Cochin and Malabar Coasts - Kerala, India Rijin K , Drisya O. K , *Sudha Kappalli 2 1 1 1 Post Graduate Department of Zoology and Research Centre, Sree Narayana College, Kannur, Kerala, India- 670 007 2 Department of Animal Science, School of Biological Sciences, Central University of Kerala, Kasaragode, Kerala, India-671 316 *[email protected] Diversity of parasitic crustaceans infecting fishes invites remarkable attention of researchers world over as it adversely affect the health of food fishes which in turn cause the loss of economic value of culture and captive fishes. Carangids, the major food fishes are under massive infection of various groups of parasitic crustaceans. Present paper depicts simultaneous multiple parasitic crustacean infection on a carangid, Alepes djedeba distributed along Cochin and Malabar coasts. A. djedeba hosts a total of five parasitic crustaceans including both isopod and copepod. But the pattern of their occurrence on A. djedeba found varied according to the coast. A. djedeba from Cochin coast harbored only three copepods, Bomolochus decapteri , Clavellisa obcordatus and Lernanthropus corniger, no isopod infection was found, while that collected from the Malabar coast showed infection with isopod, Catoessa boscii and copepods, B. decapteri and Caligus constrictus. Coast wise variation in the species of parasitic crustacean infection, parasitological indices and pattern of multiple parasitisms on same host fish species are discussed. Keywords: parasitic crustaceans, multiple parasitism, Alepes djedeba, Cochin coast, Malabar Coast 79 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology Oral presentations Effect of delay on stability and existence in the growth of zooplankton population in N-P-Z Model Sanchayita Pramanick University of Kalyani For the last few years, models of plankton based ecosystems with delay have recognized a high attention. In this paper, a predator-prey system with delay in predator population is studied. The model system is studied analytically and the threshold conditions for the existence and stability of various steady states are worked out. Here we investigate the effect of time delay on the stability behaviour of the delay differential equation. Next we have studied an estimate for the length of time delay to preserve the stability of the system. Again by considering time delay as a bifurcation parameter the existence of Hopf-bifurcation is derived. Finally, it is observed that the nutrient uptake rate for the growth of phytoplankton population, maximal nutrient conversion rate for the growth of zooplankton population and death rate of zooplankton plays an important role to change the steady state behaviour in presence of time delay in the predator population. Also computer simulations have been done to illustrate various analytical results. 80 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Distribution and community structure of plant parasitic nematodes & their relationship with soil properties in Betel vine growing regions of West Bengal, India *Sandip Mondal, Abhishek Mukherjee Indian Statistical Institute, Giridih, Jharkhand, 815301 * [email protected] Betel vine is one of the most important commercial cash crops of India. The plant is affected by several insects and diseases including nematodes. To generate a baseline information about abundance, diversity and community structure of plant parasitic nematodes (PPN) and understand the role of soil properties on PPN abundance, 260 soil samples from the rhizosphere of the betel vine was collected across four main growing regions of betel vine, West Bengal, India. Additionally, ordinary kriging method was applied to infer the spatial distribution pattern of major PPN in major betel vine growing regions of the betel crop. Ten PPN genera was identified across the growing regions, free living nematodes (FLN) were counted as total FLN. Root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne) and reniform nematodes (Rotylenchulus) were found to be the most important PPN in betel plant in all the regions. Diversity of PPN varied significantly across different growing regions with Malda being the most diverse region in terms of PPN with highest evenness. Relationships between soil properties and nematode abundance were inferred using co-inertia analysis, which indicated that soil chemical characters significantly affect PPN abundances. Available nitrogen was found to have negative correlation with Meloidogyne abundance, whereas pH and organic carbon (OC) played significant role in abundance of several PPN genera including Rotylenchulus, Hoplolaimus, Helicotylenchus etc. A significant role of betel vine type (sweet type and bitter type) on nematode abundance was found, which could be one of the factors driving PPN abundances. Root knot nematodes (Meloidogyne) were found to have higher abundance in the bitter type of betel crop. Spatial distribution depicted higher abundance of Meloidogyne throughout the North Bengal growing region. Moreover, moderate to high abundance of the reniform nematode was found in the other three growing regions. To our knowledge, this study provided the first comprehensive information of PPN associated with this important cash crop, which might help growers by taking preventive measures to combat with nematode pest of this crop. Keywords: Nematodes; Ordinary kriging; Meloidogyne; Rotylenchulus 81 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology (Poster presentations)

Abstract Status of relative distribution and reproductive strategy of fish in a tropical estuary in face of climate fluctuation *Moniruzzaman M, S B Chakraborty *Presenting author Mangrove estuaries of India are experiencing escalated variability of temperature and salinity. This shall jeopardize present distribution and diversity of tropical fishes. However, in absence of proper ecological indication it is hard to predict where fish distribution and diversity may be heading in future. Increase in temperature and salinity are influencing oxygen consumption rates, heat shock protein (Hsps) expressions and reproductive status of commercially exploited fishes. Chronic respiratory and reproductive stress under plausible scenarios of escalated abiotic variability was tested to predict future distribution of fish species. Indian Sundarbans are experiencing wide salt shifts driven by stochastic events (e.g. cyclones and storm surges) and climate changes. In 2009, the severe tropical cyclone ‘Aila’ hit the Sundarban, inundating extensive areas with brackish water. It brought about 25.2% increases in salinity. Thereby it is likely that estuarine fishes are experiencing eco-physiological stresses some of which may be related to metabolic and reproductive efficiency. These stressors have chronic effect on their abundance and distribution in longer terms. Salinity, temperature variability of Sundarban estuaries have reached to an unprecedented level. Such climatic stress is correlated with reproductive performance in fish. We hypothesized earlier that change in temperature and salinity affects the reproductive efficiency and abundance of estuarine fish. Internationally there is no comprehensive understanding of molecular dynamics of metabolic and reproductive stress when subjected to simultaneous salinity, temperature changes. Speculation is salinity and temperature act antagonistic to each other to suppress a liner signature possibly because non-linearity reigns. Finally, we observed that fish, experiencing simultaneous salinity and temperatures changes its respiratory and other physiological stress which were cross validated from oxygen consumption rates, Hsp expression & evolutionary conserved signal molecule regulating the reproductive potency and survival. This is because reproduction and survival of fish species, oxygen consumption rate, signal proteins & Hsp expression patterns are co-linear. 83 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology Poster presentations Effect of vermicomposted edible oil industry sludge on seed germination of rice, wheat and cucumber * Sampad Sarkar, Priyanka Chakraborty, Pradip Bhattacharyya Indian Statistical Institute, Giridih, Jharkhand * Presenting author Edible oil industries of West Bengal generate huge amount of toxic oil sludge (EOIS), which is a major source of water and soil pollution. EOIS usually contains high organic matter, macro and micro nutrients including heavy metals. Due to the presence of oil and metal content, EOIS is not suitable for plant growth. Water extracts of this EOIS were applied to seed of three crops – rice (Oryza sativa, L.), wheat (Triticum aestivum, L.) and cucumber (Cucumis sativa, L.). But from seed germination study it was found poor germination index with respect to the increasing concentration of the water extractable part of raw oil sludge. Severe suppression of germination index (GI), root length (RL) and shoot length (SL) were observed with the seeds treated with 1:2.5 EOIS: water extracts. To overcome this phytotoxic effect, we put an emphasis on vermiconversion of edible oil industry sludge. Vermicompost of this edible oil industry sludge with two varieties of earthworms exhibit an increase in germination index in rice, wheat and cucumber. Germination index of rice, wheat and cucumber seed is better in vermicomposted sludge compared to raw sludge. A significant positive relationship was observed between the above mentioned parameters and organic carbon, nitrogen and optical density. A significant negative relationship between the above parameters and the contents of ammonia and heavy metals was also found. When comparing the three different seeds, wheat was most sensitive, followed by rice and then cucumber in terms of germination index. Keywords: Seed germination, Germination index, EOIS 84 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Population explosion as a threat to food security in India Soma Saha Hiralal Majumder Memorial College for women [email protected] Population has been increasing at alarming rate day by day, on the other hand food production rates cannot meet the dietary need and food preferences of the individual within a population. For this reason, the increasing rate of population leads to the development of food crisis. It worsens the economic development of any country. So, the present paper aims to analyze causes of rapid population growth of India and the impact of population explosion on food security. It is also an attempt to implement fruitful measures of food security by controlling population growth so that all people at all-time have access to sufficient safe, nutritious food to maintain healthy life at affordable cost in rural and urban areas. Key words: population explosion; food security; food crisis; economic development 85 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Climate change and community ecology Poster presentations Development of safe intervention strategies against V. cholerae biofilm structure: a possible way to interfere with the climate influenced spread of the bacterium *Sudipta Paul Bhatttacharya, Aparna Sen Lady Brabourne College, Kolkata, India *Presenting author Over the last few decades global warming has changed the face of the climates with an average rise of temperature affecting grossly the ecology of infectious diseases. Several studies have already established that warmer weather conditions have significant effect on the infectivity and virulence of many pathogenic strains specially the Gram negative bacteria including Vibrio cholerae, the etiological agent of cholera. In tropical countries, V. cholerae is well recognized for significant mortalities and economic loss. Recent studies have shown that in aquatic systems, increased temperature not only has changed the interaction pattern of this bacterium with zooplanktons, the major reservoir of the bacterium, but also causing effects like coral bleaching leading to great loss in biodiversity. Vibrio sp are able to form a three-dimensional structure named biofilm on surfaces providing a microenvironment, facilitating environmental persistence within natural aquatic habitats. For most pathogenic strains biofilm formation is dependent on the expression of an Exopolysachharide (EPS) which shield the bacterium from various environmental stress. Hence loss of this EPS structure directly affects the virulence of the bacterium. Present study focuses on the development of intervention strategies to target the EPS structure of a natural isolate of Vibrio cholerae using plant derived triterpenoides. Keywords: Climate; Vibrio; biofilm; exopolysachharide; intervention 86 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Mathematical and statistical ecology (Oral presentations)

Mathematical and statistical ecology Oral presentations Can epidemiological intervention strategy be linked up with human mobility scenario? *Abhishek Senapati , Tridip Sardar , Joydev Chattopadhyay 2 1 1 1 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203, B. T. Road, Kolkata 700108 2 Department of Mathematics, Dinabandhu Andrews College, Baishnabghata, P.O. Garia, 24 Paraganas (S), Kolkata, West Bengal 700084, India * [email protected] Emerging and re-emerging diseases have posed serious problems to public health officials all over the world. Quite a good number of studies in spatial and non- spatial scale have already done to understand the disease transmission route and preventive measures. To the best of our knowledge no study is carried out to explore how the control strategies could be linked up with the human migration in different locations in a country. The present investigation has been carried out by proposing and analyzing cholera meta-population models. The basic dynamical properties including the domain basic reproduction number are studied. The model has been validated to cholera incidence data (2008-09) from five provinces in Zimbabwe. By defining and implementing some migration index, we finally recommend that there is no need to implement control strategies in all the five provinces but only those provinces where migration flow is moderate. Keywords: Mathematical model; Optimal control; Migration; Control strategy 88 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Biological control to carrier dependent infectious diseases: A mathematical model *Alok Gupta, A.K. Misra Department of Mathematics, Institute of Science, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi * Presenting author Since decades, hazardous chemicals are used to control the growth of carriers in the environment, which are responsible for the spread of many infectious diseases, such as typhoid fever, polio, and some skin infections like, leprosy, etc. These chemicals reduce the carrier population but also inflict a sizeable harm to non- target populations, like the human population. In this study, we present a mathematical model to control the carrier population using biological agents, which leads to the control of carrier-dependent infectious diseases. It is assumed that the disease can spread in the human population due to the direct contact between susceptible and infected individuals, but also indirectly through the vector population. The feasibility and stability of all the system equilibria are discussed. The key parameters of the proposed model are identified and their role in the transmission and control of such diseases is discussed. 89 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Mathematical and statistical ecology Oral presentations A stochastic model for cloud seeding A. K. Misra, *Amita Tripathi Department of Mathematics, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, India *[email protected] In this paper, a nonlinear deterministic mathematical model along with its stochastic version for artificial rain is proposed and analyzed. We have considered three dynamical variables in the modeling process; namely (i) density of cloud droplets, (ii) density of rain drops, and (iii) concentration of mixture of conducive aerosols. It is assumed that cloud droplets are continuously formed in the atmosphere at a constant rate but its conversion into rain drops does not take place in the same proportion. The artificially introduced aerosols increase the rate of formation of rain drops from cloud droplets. These aerosols are introduced in the regional atmosphere at a rate proportional to the density of cloud droplets. The proposed model is analyzed using stability theory of differential equations in deterministic as well as stochastic environment. Numerical simulation is performed to see the effect of important parameters on the process leading to rainfall. Keywords: Artificial rain, Aerosols, Water vapor, Mathematical Model, Stability 90 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Modelling analysis of sustaiable agriculture and NET Angesh Anupam The University of Sheffield, United Kingdom [email protected] The human population is projected to cross 9 billion by the year 2050. This is set to increase the demand for food and clean water by approximately 50%. The problem gets further complex with the impacts of climate-change on food production. Hence, understanding, predicting and managing the environmental processes that define natural assets such as, soil, air, water and all living things within the Earth’s ‘Critical Zone’ is now one of the most crucial societal challenges of the 21st century. The 1st focus of this research is, analysing the effects of a ‘Negative Emission Technology (NET)’ on the crop production. The NET considered here is known as ‘Enhanced Weathering’ of basalt rock, which is an accelerated form of weathering. The goal of the COP 21 Paris to keep the future warming within 2 degree Celsius of pre-industrial level is not feasible without an NET. An Enhanced Weathering (EW) model was developed using the analytical and data-driven dynamical modelling techniques. The 2nd focus of this research is to integrate the EW model with the available soil- vegetation process models. Such kind of integration is essential because food production involves a wide range of interlinked soil-vegetation processes and these factors must be considered simultaneously, while developing a modelling tool for an agricultural system. The 3rd focus of this research is to perform the thought experiments to assess the potential of the EW in the sequestration of CO2, assess the effects of the EW and other sustainable farming on crop yield. The overarching aim is to design the sustainable agriculture, where food security and climate change mitigation are assessed in parallel. Keywords: Food security; sustainable agriculture, climate-change mitigation, NET 91 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Mathematical and statistical ecology Oral presentations Stability of harvesting population under demographic noise Anurag Sau Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, ISI Kolkata The purpose of optimal harvesting is to achieve a sustainable development of the activity, so that future generations can also benefit from the resource. However, the optimal harvesting strategy usually maximizes an economically important objective function formed by the harvester which can lead to the extinction of the resource population. Therefore, sustainability has been far more difficult to achieve than is commonly thought some biological populations like fish populations are becoming increasingly limited and catches are declining due to overexploitation. Indiscriminate harvesting of essential renewable biological resources is a major issue in sustainability of different species. Harvesting at MSY level is a much debated process. It is found in food web models that some species may go to extinction if MSY is applied carelessly. Thus when harvesting is applied to ecosystem, it must be carried out in a controlled manner so that it does not hamper the survivability of species. Identifying of suitable harvesting strategies and proper utilization of it is the goal of our work. In a fluctuating environment there are two sources of variation, known as demographic and environmental stochasticity. Demographic stochasticity arises from the independent realisations of probabilities of mortality and reproduction among individuals in a population at a particular time. This component of stochasticity in the growth rate vanishes when population becomes large. So the depleting population under harvesting issue is more sensitive with demographic stochasticity in comparison with the environmental fluctuation. So the optimum harvesting of fluctuating population with a risk of extinction is an exciting research area. We consider a theta logistic model with demographic stochasticity and develop an optimum harvesting policy under both linear and nonlinear harvesting rate. 92 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Association between childhood diarrhea and household living condition: a geo-statistical modelling *Apurba Shil, Parul Puri, Junaid Khan International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), Mumbai, India *Presenting Author Although childhood morbidities (especially diarrhea) are decreasing with mortality, but still its level is much higher in India. Reduction of morbidities is necessary as it negatively affect child’s future in different perspectives. Some literatures although established the association between household environment and childhood morbidities at individual level. But existing literature underscores the association at district level which may help policy makers and researchers to get better insights to strengthen the policies and programs to reduce such avertable issues. Thus our study aims to assess the district level linkages of childhood diarrhea with the household living condition. The study used district level fact sheet data from 4 round of National family health th survey (NFHS). Polychoric principal component technique was used to create an improved household living index. A series of quantile maps were generated to know the spatial pattern of the indicators used. Multiple ordinary least square (OLS) models and geostatistical techniques like areal modelling (spatially autoregressive and conditional autoregressive) and spatial autocorrelation analysis were also used to achieve the overall study objective. Spatial analysis suggests that considerable spatial variation of childhood morbidities exist in India. Hotspots of morbidities are concentrated mostly among the districts of northern, central and north-eastern regions. A district-level positive autocorrelation also observed between childhood morbidities and household’s living standard, which suggest that places where household’s living standard is low, level of childhood morbidities is also significantly high. Use of geostatistical techniques is highly recommended to get reliable and quick snapshots. Also areal modelling techniques are more accurate and provide better estimates than the existing OLS models. Sub-national areas have been identified where necessary attention is required. Household living standard seems very important on child heath of the country. Thus, formulation of some household level awareness program on child health by the community workers could be an effective way out to tackle down such vital issues. Also Govt. and policy planners need to strengthen existing policies and program to reduce such sub-national level spatial disparities. Keywords: Childhood diarrhea, polychoric principal component, areal modelling, OLS models, spatial autocorrelation, autoregressive 93 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Mathematical and statistical ecology Oral presentations Development of regression models involving agro-climatic factors for prediction of yield of grass pea (Lathyrus sativus L.) *Argha Ghosh, S. A. Khan, M. K. Nanda Department of Agricultural Meteorology and Physics, B.C.K.V., Nadia, W.B. *[email protected] Field experiment were conducted during rabi season of 2015-2016 and 2016-2017 at Instructional Farm, B.C.K.V., West Bengal with grass pea (cv. Prateek), sown th on nine different dates (D1 to D9) at weekly interval from 26 October to 21 st December. Phenophase-wise mean and accumulated weather parameters were recorded and different agrometeorological indices were computed. Step-wise regression analysis involving yield and agro-climatic factors was carried out for yield prediction. Results revealed that grain yield could be predicted by three regression models using morning vapour pressure during reproductive stage, accumulated Heliothermal unit during maturity stage, and maximum air temperature during pre-flowering stage. Increments in adjusted R were 25% and 2 0.9% in model 2 and 3 respectively over the preceding models. Regression models, for prediction of biological yield involved diurnal temperature difference during post-flowering stage, mean vapour pressure deficit during emergence stage, minimum air temperature at reproductive stage and rainfall at vegetative stage were used as predictor variables. For biological yield prediction, predictability of the four models were 89.2%, 97.5%, 99.2% and 99.8% in model 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively. In order to predict the final yield at the end of vegetative and reproductive stage, regression models were developed. From the experiment it was clear that yield prediction was possible using growing season agro-climatic factors and pre harvesting forecast of grain and biological yield was also possible. Keywords: Grass pea; phenophases; regression model; weather parameters; yield prediction 94 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract A goodness-of-fit test of growth curve based on an extended relative growth rate measure 1 *Arindam Gupta , Farhana Yeasmin , Sabyasachi Bhattacharya 2 1 1 Department of Statistics, The University of Burdwan, Burdwan, West Bengal, India 2 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, 203, B. T. Road, Kolkata, 700108, India *Presenting author Growth is the most popular metric associated with the study of the life processes on earth. Relative Growth Rate (RGR) is the most popular measure used to quantify the species growth and finds wide applications in various disciplines. Instantaneous Maturity rate (IMR) is an extended measure of growth based on RGR which is a novel and unified function and overcomes the shortfalls of the RGR variable as a measure of growth. To explore the distributional behavior of IMR, in this paper, we have developed the exact and the asymptotic distribution of IMR under the Gaussian set up of the size variable or the RGR variable. To illustrate the efficiency of the IMR in characterizing any growth model, we have constructed a goodness-of-fit test based on the IMR for the Weibull rate model, a newly proposed general time covariate growth law. The performance of the test is investigated through simulation studies. Keywords: Relative growth rate (RGR); Instantaneous maturity rate (IMR); goodness-of- fit test; Weibull rate model; hazard function 95 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 th Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Mathematical and statistical ecology Oral presentations Understanding species importance in an ecosystem: Keystone vs. Centrality (A case study from Bakreswar Reservoir, India) *Arnab Banerjee, Santanu Ray Systems Ecology & Ecological Modelling Laboratory, Department of Zoology, Visva- Bharati University, Santiniketan – 731235 *Presenting Author In order to better understand the organization of and to manage and conserve ecosystems it is essential to know the relative contribution that each of the system components have towards system function. Various Ecological Network Analyses (ENA) indices have been used to explore system level interactions of food web network of Bakreswar reservoir, India and are used as global indicators to analyze the relative contributions of each component. Throughflow in social science is considered a special case of centrality that can be used to rank components according to their power in the system. Keystone species are designated as one of the most important component playing vital role in maintaining system structure and integrity. In spite of low levels of presence (biomass), these species have disproportionately larger effects. Consistent with theoretical applications and previous observations, detritus is one of the most important components of the system as observed in this study; while using different Keystoneness indices of Ecopath with Ecosim software avian group and fish like Channa sp. and Anabus sp. are identified as probable keystones. The positive and negative direct and indirect effects they have on other components of the system are evaluated by Mixed Trophic Impacts analysis. A comparison between keystoneness and centrality measure to determine better indicator in identifying and describing the key player in the ecosystem helps in subsequent investigation of the effects that any stress on these components may have on the ecosystem health. Keywords: Total System Throughput; Ecopath with Ecosim; enaR; food web; trophic structure 96 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata

Abstract Mathematical modelling of Mendel’s Law Chathely Briji Jacob Birla College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Kalyan, Maharashtra, India Population genetics is the study of evolutionary process within a population. Evolution is the heritable characteristics that differ among individuals in a population and describes how the distribution of these characteristics changes across generations. Mathematical modelling is concerned with choosing appropriate mathematical methods to address a scientific problem. Mathematical methods play an important role in the study of population genetics as population genetics deals with change of allele frequencies as a function of time. Mendel, known as the father of genetics, is famous for his pea experiment, conducted in 1856. This paper focuses on mathematical modelling of Mendel’s work. Keywords: genes; allele; genotype; chromosomes; heterozygote 97 th 5 India Biodiversity Meet – 2018 Agricultural and Ecological Research Unit, Indian Statistical Institute, Kolkata