Photosynthetic pigments

In the present study physiological responses of three plant species (Boerhaavia diffusa L., Adhatoda vasica Nees and Parthenium hysterophorus L.) to hyperthermia have been investigated. Supra-optimal temperature was found to exert profound influence on stability of photosynthetic pigments, soluble proteins, membrane permeability and enzymes. The least decay in photosynthetic pigments was observed in Adhatoda while Parthenium was characterized by the maximum degradation of photosynthetic pigments. Treatment of leaves at high temperature also led to reduction in extractable aqueous buffer soluble proteins in all the plants. The membrane permeability under hyperthermia also differed markedly.
Apparent differences were observed among these plants with respect to thermostability of the enzymes. Peroxidase was found to be the most thermo tolerant enzyme in all the three plants studied. The enzyme PR of Adhatoda exhibited comparatively better thermotolerance than those of Boerhaavia and Parthenium.

Thermal power plants use pulverized coal as a fuel source to generate power by obtaining fly ash as a by-product. Its generation in the country has increased from 40 Million ton (MT)/yr (1994) to about 235 MT/yr (2013). It is projected to be 325 MT/yr (2016-17), 500 MT/yr (2021-22) and 1000 MT/yr (2031-32). If it is not used, then it would demand large area of land for ash ponds and would pose a threat for air and water pollution. Fly ash utilization has increased from 1 MT/yr during 1994 to 130 MT/year during 2013, primarily as an outcome of concerted efforts under Fly Ash Mission-India. In the present study, it was shown that utilization of fly-ash as a carrier in bio-fertilizer formulations emerged as safe and effective alternatives. Use of fly-ash as a carrier in these formulations is an effective way of utilization of problematic fly-ash waste in a useful manner. Fly ash has similar physicochemical properties with soil. Fly ash addition to the soil in different doses improves photosynthetic pigments concentration beneficial for a wheat plant. We can conclude that though fly ash is a waste of concern but now has become a boon for sustainable agriculture