In response to the increasing use of exogenous enzymes in carp polyculture systems in Bangladesh, a study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeds enriched with exogenous enzymes on the growth, flesh composition, and palatability of an Indian major carp, Cirrhinus cirrhosus. This feeding trial was conducted over 90 days in 12 cages in a fish pond at University of Rajshahi, Bangladesh. A commercial feed additive (Aquazyme Plus) was used as the enzyme source at concentrations of 0.0, 2.0, 4.0, and 6.0 g/kg feed to prepare four test feeds, designated as the following treatments: T1 (control), T2, T3, and T4. Growth and feed utilization parameters, flesh composition, and organoleptic qualities of cooked flesh were evaluated using standard formulas, methods of the Association of Official Analytical Chemists (AOAC), and an organoleptic technique, respectively. Results revealed superior weight gain and SGR in fish from group T4, followed by those from groups T3, T2, and T1. Group T4 also exhibited the best FCR and PER, as well as the highest protein and lipid content. Organoleptic evaluation showed that the flesh of fish from groups T3 and T4 achieved higher scores for sensory qualities, while that of the control fish achieved the lowest scores. The incorporation of exogenous enzymes into the feed improves the growth, flesh quality, and organoleptic qualities of C. cirrhosus. The incorporation of this enzyme at a dose of 6.0 g/kg of feed resulted in significantly better results for this species. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 41-50, 2026
Nutrition is a critical determinant of growth and silk productivity in the silkworm (Bombyx mori L.), yet reliance on mulberry leaves creates seasonal constraints, particularly in Bangladesh. This study assessed the effects of two formulated artificial diets, based on mulberry leaf powder, soy flour, and corn flour, compared with mulberry-fed controls in the BN/M multivoltine race. Key growth, cocoon, pupal, and silk fibre traits were measured, and multivariate analyses (PCA, correlation, and clustering) were applied to reveal the interrelationships among these traits. Results showed that mulberry leaves ensured superior larval growth and silk gland development, but artificial diets provided trait-specific benefits. Diet 1 enhanced the shell ratio (14.57%) and fibre length (401 m), while Diet 2 yielded heavier male (0.869 g) and female pupae (1.268 g). PCA separated growth/biomass traits from silk productivity traits, highlighting trade-offs between larval development and fibre yield. Strong correlations, such as between fifth-instar weight and silk fibre output, confirmed the biological linkage between nutrient intake and cocoon productivity. Clustering further distinguished artificial diet treatments from mulberry-fed controls, indicating distinct phenotypic responses. This is the first systematic evaluation of artificial diets for the BN/M race under Bangladeshi sericulture conditions. The findings demonstrate that while mulberry leaves remain indispensable, artificial diets can supplement rearing during lean seasons by enhancing specific economic traits. A cost analysis revealed that although artificial diets are slightly more expensive, they help offset seasonal shortages and sustain cocoon yields, thereby supporting sericulture resilience in regions with limited mulberry availability. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 74-87, 2026
Industrial effluents discharge into the rivers severely degrade water quality by introducing heavy metals, organic pollutants, and excess nutrients, leading to toxicity of aquatic life and severe health risk for humans. This research aimed to explore occupational health risks and assess the discharge of effluents from a canal connected to the Jamuna River. An in-depth interview was conducted among employees of the Jamuna Fertilizer Company Limited (JFCL) to know the occupational health condition of that industry from January to June 2023. These employees reported various health problems, including eye, respiratory, and abdominal disorders, due to poor management and a lack of awareness. The Jamuna River was negatively affected by untreated waste discharged by JFCL. Water samples were collected at the discharge points of effluents from the Jamuna fertilizer plants to investigate the river's physicochemical parameters. The results revealed that the water quality of the Jamuna River is compromised by these discharges, posing a threat to aquatic life. The average dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration measured was 4.06 ppm, below the WHO-recommended standard of 5 ppm. Although the average pH is 8.32 and the average total dissolved solids (TDDS) content is 172.33 ppm, both of these parameters are within acceptable limits, the electrical conductivity (EC) exceeds acceptable thresholds. Furthermore, concentrations of heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) exceeded safety thresholds, threatening aquatic organisms. Low levels of dissolved oxygen (DO) were particularly detrimental to aquatic habitats in the region. During the study, pre-monsoon water temperatures remained within acceptable limits, but they exceeded these thresholds during the monsoon season. Overall, the study revealed that the water quality of the canal, which is connected to the Jamuna River, has deteriorated significantly due to untreated discharges, affecting not only aquatic life but also the entire ecosystem and local communities. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 63-73, 2026
Oral candidiasis is a common fungal infection caused by Candida species, often exhibiting resistance to antifungal agents. Among non-albicans Candida species, Candida krusei is of clinical concern due to the development of resistance mechanisms, including drug efflux pumps and gene overexpression. This study investigates drug susceptibility, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), efflux pump activity, and gene expression in C. krusei isolates. After identification using chromogenic media (HiCrome Candida Differential Agar), clinical isolates were subjected to antifungal susceptibility testing and MIC determination against fluconazole, voriconazole, miconazole, clotrimazole, and nystatin following CLSI guidelines. Efflux pump activity was evaluated using the Rhodamine 6G (R6G) efflux assay. Gene expression of CDR1, CDR2, TAC1, and ERG11- key regulators of azole resistance—was analyzed using RT-qPCR and the 2−∆∆CT method. The antifungal susceptibility profiling revealed that the majority of the clinical isolates exhibited resistance to nystatin with an MIC of ≥ 8μg/mL, while the MIC ranges 0.25-2μg/mL for other drugs. Notably, higher R6G efflux was observed in nystatin exposure compared to other antifungals, indicating a contributory role of ATP-binding cassette (ABC) transporters to antifungal resistance- especially in reducing intracellular drug accumulation. Further support for this mechanism was provided by RT-qPCR analysis, which showed upregulation of resistance-associated genes- CDR1, CDR2, TAC1, and ERG11- pre-treated with nystatin. The increased efflux activity observed in the R6G assay and overexpression of these efflux genes, especially in response to nystatin, underscores the pivotal role of efflux pumps in mediating resistance. These findings suggest that targeting efflux-mediated pathways may be a promising strategy in overcoming resistance in Candida infections. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 22-30, 2026
The carbon dioxide (CO₂) sequestration efficiency of five selected tree species- Swietenia macrophylla (Mahogany), Acacia auriculiformis (Akashmoni), Tectona grandis (Shegun), Ficus benghalensis (Banyan tree) and Borassus flabellifer (Tal palm) was estimated using a non-destructive method. Tree height and trunk diameter were measured at breast height (4 ft) and above breast height (6 ft) to assess CO₂ sequestration potential. At a trunk height of 4 ft, the highest CO₂ sequestration was recorded in F. benghalensis, with an estimated 198,070.59 kg, whereas the lowest was observed in B. flabellifer, with 13,425.46 kg. Similarly, at 6 ft trunk height, F. benghalensis exhibited the maximum CO₂ sequestration (233,812.999 kg), while B. flabellifer showed the minimum (9,992.96 kg). These results indicate that F. benghalensis is the most effective species for CO₂ sequestration among the studied trees, likely due to its large trunk diameter, extensive biomass and wide canopy structure, which contribute to greater carbon storage capacity. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 125-129, 2026
Arsenic contamination in drinking water is a major environmental and public health concern in Bangladesh and is responsible for chronic multisystemic illness known as arsenicosis. This study was conducted in Krishnanagar union of Nabinagar Upazila, Brahmanbaria District- one of the most arsenic-prone areas- to assess the extent of arsenic exposure and its associated health complications. Data were collected under the UNICEF Bangladesh–funded arsenic mitigation project Lot 2, implemented by Village Education Resource Center (VERC), through community-based participatory rural appraisal (PRA) techniques and door-to-door household visits. Among 6,864 families surveyed, 1,953 were consuming arsenic-contaminated water, 3,217 relied on untested tube wells, and only 1,694 used wells within acceptable limits. Of the tested wells, 47% contained arsenic above 50 ppb (unsafe), 32% were within the WHO guideline (≤10 ppb) as safe and 21% were within the national permissible limit (≤50 ppb), while 46% remained untested. Clinical observation identified 129 individuals with dermatological and systemic manifestations, of whom 56 were clinically confirmed as arsenicosis cases. Among the confirmed cases, the predominant manifestations included melanosis and leukomelanosis (62.5%), palmoplantar keratosis (76.8%), ulcerated keratosis (64.3%), conjunctivitis (42.9%), gangrene (12.9%), mees’ lines (3.6%), peripheral neuropathy (83.9%), fatigue (89.3%), odynophagia (26.8%), chronic cough and dyspnea (32.1%), dental caries (39.3%), chronic abdominal pain (8.9%), anorexia and nausea (23.2%), altered bowel habits (5.4%), and alopecia (32.1%). Spearman’s correlation showed no significant link between exposure duration and symptom severity (ρ=0.038, p=0.779), suggesting that biological susceptibility or arsenic concentration may be more decisive than exposure length alone. These results highlight a significant multisystemic health burden within the study area, necessitating urgent safe water access, increased awareness, and targeted health interventions. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 31-40, 2026
The aim of this study was to bring out the morphological diversity analysis based on the quantitative and qualitative morphological characters of seven species of Dendrobium namely D. aggregatum, D. aphyllum, D. chrysotoxum, D. densiflorum, D. fimbriatum, D. nobile, and D. parishii. The detailed morphological characterization and diversity are discussed and here the vegetative characters revealed variations among the species which can be differentiated from one another. Morphological characterization is an important step which can determine genetic relationships among orchid species in the same genus. Thirty seven characteristics on morphological parameters on the basis of quantitative and qualitative were assayed. There were 30 out of the 37 identified morphological characters (81.08%) that showed diversification in flowers, leaves, pseudobulbs, and roots. From the correlation analysis it was found that 8 out of 10 floral characters have significant positive correlation with themselves at 1% and 5% level. From the principal component analysis (PCA) values, it is exposed that the characters that have a large influence on grouping are the ratio of petal length, lip length and sepal length. The dendrogram topology is supported by the morphological character classification. The dendrogram revealed that D. aphyllum and D. chrysotoxum have the closest kinship between themselves with a similarity coefficient of 2.0 and hence they can be used as parents for cross-breeding and hybridization purpose to obtain new varieties. The results of this study are expected to provide scientific information about genetic diversity among Dendrobium orchid species and to help its conservation efforts in Bangladesh. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 51-62, 2026
This study evaluated morphological diversity among 24 existing and endangered banana genotypes in Bangladesh from January 2023 to May 2025. Significant variation was observed in vegetative growth, flowering, harvesting time, and yield traits. Pseudo-stem height ranged from 2.24 m in Mehersagor to 4.53 m in Neyali, while base girth varied from 15.90 cm in Ramkela to 90.20 cm in Goma Atia. Yield attributes also differed markedly: Grand Naine produced the heaviest bunches (18.3 kg), Mehersagor the highest number of hands per bunch (12.8), and Champa the greatest number of fingers per hand (15.5). Individual finger weight was highest in Mehersagor (215.47 g) and lowest in Madna (74.90 g). In case of harvesting the longer period (366.30 days) found in Dudhsagor whereas the shortest period (308.40 days) was recorded in Ramkela. Principal component analysis revealed that vegetative growth, crop duration, and yield traits contributed most to overall diversity, accounting for 75.45% of the cumulative variance across four components. These findings highlight substantial morphological and horticultural variation among Bangladeshi banana genotypes, underscoring their potential for cultivar selection, genetic conservation, and sustainable production strategies. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 88-99, 2026
The global prevalence of diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate, making its management a primary clinical concern. While conventional pharmacological treatments are effective, they are often associated with significant side effects. Consequently, research has shifted toward identifying safer, natural alternatives. This study investigates the antidiabetic and antihyperlipidemic potential of Chenopodium murale leaf (CML) extract in a mice model. The study utilized an acute toxicity test and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) in healthy mice. Diabetes was induced via an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ). Diabetic mice were then treated with CML extract (200 and 400 mg/kg), metformin (150 mg/kg), or a vehicle control (0.5% CMC) for 15 days. Key parameters measured included blood glucose levels, body weight, and a complete lipid profile (TC, TG, LDL, and HDL). Additionally, liver function was assessed by measuring serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamate pyruvic transaminase (SGPT) levels. The extract was found to be safe up to a dose of 1000 mg/kg. Treatment with CML extract significantly improved glucose tolerance compared to the untreated diabetic group (both p<0.001 at 90 min). Both doses (200 and 400 mg/kg) produced a dose-dependent reduction in blood glucose levels (both p<0.001 vs. DC). Furthermore, the extract effectively lowered TC, TG and LDL cholesterol levels (400 mg/kg, p<0.001 vs. DC); while slightly increasing HDL cholesterol (400 mg/kg, p<0.01 vs. DC). A significant reduction in SGOT (200 & 400 mg/kg; p<0.01, p<0.001 vs. DC) and SGPT levels (400 mg/kg, p<0.05 vs. DC) also indicated potent liver protective effect. The CML extract exhibits significant glucose and lipid lowering efficacy alongside protect liver functions in diabetic mice, considered as a natural alternative for diabetes management. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 100-109, 2026
Healthcare services play a crucial role in maintaining population health by providing timely medical care and disease management. However, healthcare professionals often encounter various challenges that may affect the quality and efficiency of service delivery. This study aimed to explore the challenges faced by healthcare professionals in enhancing healthcare services in the Emergency, Medicine, and Gynaecology departments of Rajshahi Medical College Hospital (RMCH), Bangladesh. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to March 2024 among 238 healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and technicians. Data were collected using a structured dichotomous questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 22.0 with descriptive statistics. The findings revealed that 61.76% of respondents reported satisfaction with the existing infrastructure, while 82.35% confirmed the availability of essential drugs and medical equipment. Additionally, 75.63% indicated that government funding was adequate, and 79% believed that current healthcare policies and regulations were effective. Despite these positive perceptions, several challenges were reported, including shortages of healthcare personnel (41.17%), limited technological resources (40.34%), inappropriate population-to-bed ratios (55.04%), and difficulties in managing emerging and re-emerging diseases (87.81%). The study concludes that although key healthcare resources such as drugs, equipment, and policy support are generally adequate, significant operational challenges remain. Addressing workforce shortages, improving technological capacity, and optimizing hospital resource allocation are essential to further strengthen healthcare service delivery in tertiary-level hospitals in Bangladesh. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 12-21, 2026
The present study was conducted with the stems and roots of 24 accessions of Cynodon dactylon, collected from different habitats of Bangladesh. Anatomical features of this grass species include different tissues and tissue systems, which were studied through qualitative and quantitative measurements. Stem anatomy exhibited epidermis, hypodermis, ground tissue system and vascular bundles through transverse section of the respective parts. Both epidermis and hypodermis were found to be thick-walled, but composed of parenchyma and sclerenchyma cells, respectively. Their thickness was always found to be lowest for epidermis (380µm) in the accessions of Cox’s Bazar and sclerenchyma thickness (0.07cm) in the accession of both Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s Island collected from the saline area. The ground tissue system did not show distinct cortex, endodermis, pericycle, pith, and pith rays; it was made up of parenchyma cells occupying the whole stem interior. Here also, cortex thickness was lowest (0.26cm and 0.31cm) in the case of Saint Martin’s Island and Cox’s Bazar, respectively, in accessions of the saline area compared to that of other habitats. Vascular bundles were conjoint, collateral, but closed. In case of the root anatomy, one remarkable feature, such as intensive clarification in outer cortex, vascular region and endodermis layer was observed in the accessions collected from Barguna, Cox’s Bazar and Saint Martin’s Island. Another distinctive feature was observed in root anatomy, and that was lysigenous aerenchyma, which is created by the formation of gas spaces as a result of death and subsequent lysis, causing collapse of the files of cells, i.e, root cortical cells. This was very prominent in the accessions of the saline area. Vascular bundles were found to be arranged in a ring of differential radials. Their quantitative characters, such as metaxylem area, phloem area, pith area, and pith thickness, showed differences among accessions from saline and non-saline habitats, with the highest and lowest values observed in the saline and non-saline habitats, respectively. ANOVA confirmed significant variation among accessions (p≤0.001). These findings suggest that anatomical modifications, particularly aerenchyma formation and tissue sclerification, contribute to the ecological resilience of C. dactylon in saline and drought-prone environments. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 110-124, 2026
The phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) gene family plays a pivotal role in plant secondary metabolism, particularly within the phenylpropanoid pathway that produces essential metabolites contributing to plant growth, defense, and fruit quality. This study presents a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the PAL gene family in Fragaria × ananassa Duch. (Strawberry) to elucidate their evolutionary relationships, chromosomal distribution, regulatory mechanisms, and potential involvement in abiotic and biotic stress responses. Eight PAL genes (designated FaPAL1–FaPAL8) were identified and systematically characterized. Gene duplication analysis revealed evolutionary relationships among FaPAL members and suggested possible functional redundancy. Phylogenetic analysis of FaPAL proteins with those from five other plant species clustered the genes into distinct clades, indicating both functional diversification and evolutionary conservation. Conserved motif analysis confirmed the presence of key domains required for PAL enzymatic activity, while promoter analysis uncovered numerous cis-regulatory elements associated with light responsiveness, hormonal regulation, and abiotic stress tolerance (including drought and temperature stress). Furthermore, microRNA (miRNA) interaction analysis indicated that FaPAL3 and FaPAL5 exhibited the highest miRNA targeting frequency (38.9%; score 7), highlighting their potential regulatory significance under stress conditions. Overall, this study provides valuable insights into the structural, evolutionary, and functional dynamics of the PAL gene family in strawberry. The findings lay a foundation for future genetic and biotechnological interventions aimed at enhancing fruit quality, disease resistance, and stress resilience for sustainable strawberry cultivation. J. Bio-Sci. 34(1): 01-11, 2026
Diabetes mellitus is a widespread metabolic disorder marked by persistent high blood sugar due to inadequate insulin secretion or action. While conventional antidiabetic drugs are available, their side effects have led to the exploration of alternative treatments. Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum) is noted for its medicinal properties, particularly in managing diabetes. In this study, fenugreek seeds were sprouted, and methanolic extracts were prepared. Diabetes was induced in Long-Evans rats through streptozotocin (STZ) injection, and diabetic rats were treated with fenugreek sprout extract at a dosage of 400 mg/kg body weight per day for 28 days. Blood glucose levels (BGL) were regularly monitored, and pancreatic tissues were examined histologically to assess the protection of β-cells. The fenugreek sprout extract demonstrated significant antidiabetic effects, as the treated rats exhibited a notable reduction in blood glucose levels (BGL) compared to diabetic control groups (both positive and negative). Histopathological examination revealed that the pancreatic β-cells of fenugreek-treated rats were protected, exhibiting improved morphology and reduced immune cell infiltration. The study aimed to investigate the antidiabetic potential of methanolic extracts of fenugreek sprouts in STZ-induced diabetic Long-Evans rats. The results suggest that fenugreek sprouts have antidiabetic properties, offering a natural alternative for diabetes management. J. Bio-Sci. 33(1): 31-40, 2025
Aerides crispa Lindl., an epiphytic orchid native to the Western Ghats of India, holds significant ornamental and medicinal values. Unfortunately, several orchid species are recognized as threatened due to habitation loss and lack of inefficient natural propagation. This study aimed to develop a reliable and reproducible in vitro regeneration protocol for A. crispa through asymbiotic seed germination and tissue culture techniques. Green, un-dehisced seedpods harvested 60-63 days after pollination were surface sterilized and inoculated on Murashige and Skoog medium. The highest seed germination (91.67%) occurred on hormone-free MS medium, indicating that exogenous plant growth regulators are not essential for germination. However, 1.0 µM/L BAP significantly enhanced protocorm-like body (PLB) formation (93.33%) and shoot development (90%). Optimal microshoot multiplication (15.52 ± 0.17 shoots/explant) was achieved with 2.0 µM/L BAP + 1.0 µM/L IBA, while maximum shoot elongation occurred at 1.0 µM/L BAP. Rooting was most effective with 4.0 µM/L IBA, producing 93.33% rooting and an average of 4.21 roots/shoot. Among acclimatization substrates, the mixture of garden soil, cocopeat, and charcoal (1:1:1) supported 100% in vivo survival. This study provides a suitable plant propagation approach that might be useful for the conservation of A. crispa, thereby contributing to ex situ conservation of the threatened orchid species and their further commercial cultivation. J. Bio-Sci. 33(1): 79-92, 2025
Microplastics pose a serious threat to both ecosystems and human health. It is increasingly detected in agricultural soil but how these microplastics affects on plant growth system that has remained poorly understood. The present investigation was assessed the effect microplastics in wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) seedlings growth. Different microplastics in aqueous solution showed varied response on wheat seedlings growth. It was noted that after 10 days of seedlings growth in petri dishes, the WMRI-I wheat showed maximum efficiency of germination percentage (87.5%), shoot elongation (6.68 cm), root elongation (6.62 cm) and lateral root formation (4.38 roots/seedling) than WMRI-II and WMRI-III. At all the cases, the minimum growth response was noticed in WMRI-III wheat. The F-value reveals that shoot and root length were significantly different towards microplastic treatments. The present findings also indicate that PPLCW (microplastic plus polythene) treatment had more negative impact on wheat seedlings growth. J. Bio-Sci. 33(2): 51-56, 2025
Under this study, four important commercial banana genotypes, such as Grand Naine (G-9), Sabri, Mehersagor and Jahaji, were considered, and experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of different cytokinins (BAP, KIN) and auxins (IAA, IBA, NAA) on shoot initiation and multiplication. Excised shoot-tips were used as explants and cultured on MS medium supplemented with various concentrations and combinations of BAP, IAA, and NAA to evaluate regeneration efficiency. The highest response of explants (78%) and maximum number of shoots per explant (5.04) were observed with 3.5 mg/L BAP + 1.5 mg/L IAA in G-9. In Sabri, the highest response of explants (65%) and maximum number of shoots per explant (5.50) were observed with 2.5 mg/L BAP + 1.0 mg/L Kin. The variety Mehersagor showed the highest response in on callus induction and regeneration (67%) and maximum number of shoots per explant (6.22), where 4.5 mg/L BAP + 2.0 mg/L IAA were used. The Jahaji showed the maximum number (72%) of shoots per explant (6.24). G-9 showed the highest number of roots (5.75) with 2.0 mg/L of IAA in MS medium. In Sabri, 5.81 roots were observed with 1.50 mg/L of IBA. In Mehersagor, the maximum number of roots (6.66) was recorded at 1.50 mg/L of IBA. Similarly, in Jahaji, 6.69 roots were observed with 1.00 mg/L of IBA. The regenerated healthy rooted plantlets were transferred from the culture bottle to soil in small plastic pots and were kept at outdoor environment, the survival rate was 88.89%. After proper acclimatization, the well-rooted plants were successfully transferred and hardened. This technology presents significant prospects for advancing commercial banana production, particularly by providing researchers with a reliable platform for large-scale propagation and genetic improvement. J. Bio-Sci. 33(1): 93-100, 2025
Extracts of chickpea Cicer arietinum L. with petroleum ether (PE), CHCl3, and CH3OH were tested for cytotoxicity against brine shrimp Artemia salina L. nauplii, larvicidal activity against mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Say larvae, and piscicidal activity against guppy Poecilia reticulata Peters. All chickpea extracts exhibited cytotoxicity, with the CHCl3 extract proving the most effective at a minimum LC50 of 7.27 ppm, followed by the CH3OH and PE extract, with LC50s of 22.05 and 27.33 ppm, respectively, after 48 h of exposure. Against mosquito larvae, the PE extract showed the highest larvicidal activity with an LC50 value of 38.59 ppm at 48 h, while the CH3OH and CHCl3 extracts gave LC50 values of 66.01 and 72.22 ppm after 48 h of exposure. Against guppies, only the CHCl3 and CH3OH extracts of the tested plant showed favorable piscicidal activity. The CHCl3 extract proved more active, with an LC50 of 5.35 ppm, compared to 23.91 ppm for the CH3OH extract, after 48 h of exposure. The PE extract showed no lethality to the fish studied. Based on the intensity of sensitivity of the three test organisms to the chickpea extracts, the tested agents could be ranked in descending order of effectiveness as follows: P. reticulata (CHCl3; LC50 = 5.35 ppm) > A. salina nauplii (CHCl3; LC50 = 7.27 ppm) > C. quinquefasciatus larvae (PE; LC50 = 38.59 ppm). J. Bio-Sci. 33(2): 57-66, 2025
The study was conducted to assess and generate information on the quality of bottled and jarred drinking water available in the markets of Bangladesh, analyzing 35 branded bottled water and 250 jarred water samples from 18 districts. Parameters examined included total dissolved solids, chloride, nitrite, nitrate, lead, chromium, iron, pH, and microbial content (total and fecal coliform). The samples were analyzed in triplicate at accredited laboratories. Bottled water TDS (total dissolved solids) levels ranged from 8 to 240 mg/L, well below the Bangladesh standard of 500 mg/L, likely due to reverse osmosis technology reducing mineral content. TDS levels in jarred water ranged from 62 to 474 mg/L, with 11% of samples exceeding 300 mg/L. Although these higher levels were observed, they remain within acceptable limits for safe consumption. Chloride concentrations were acceptable, ranging from 1.97 to 55 mg/L for bottled water and 3.99 to 91.97 mg/L for jarred water. Other chemical parameters (NO2, NO3, Pb, Cr, and Fe) were undetectable. pH values of both bottled (6.36 to 7.70) and jarred (6.73 to 7.75) were within the safe range of 6.4 to 7.4. Microbial analysis revealed that bottled water was almost free of contamination (<1.8 MPN/100 mL), posing no health risk. In contrast, jarred water contained significant microbial contamination, with total coliform ranging from 17-1600 MPN/1000 mL and Fecal coliform from 11 to 240 MPN/100 mL, raising health concerns. The study also highlighted discrepancies between labeled and actual mineral compositions in bottled water, with many producers misrepresenting information to suit trade interests. Correct labeling remains a major problem, as traders often fail to meet mandatory standards. The findings highlight the need for stricter regulatory enforcement to ensure consumer safety and accurate labeling. J. Bio-Sci. 33(1): 53-66, 2025
The present study was conducted to develop an efficient in vitro micropropagation protocol for Noni, an important medicinal plant, using nodal segments and shoot tips. In this study the Murashige and Skoog medium was considered with various concentrations and combinations of BAP and Kinetin. For the evaluation of shoot and root induction, their proliferation and the increased number of shoots and roots, various auxins (IBA, IAA and NAA) were used. The highest length of shoots (5.2 0.15 cm) and the highest number of shoots (3.2 0.13) were found on MS medium supplemented with BAP (4.0 mg/l) and Kinetin (2.0 mg/l) from nodal segments. In this case a data were recorded after 12 weeks of culture initiation. After 42 days, the highest number of roots per shoot (32.5 0.40), the highest length of roots (1.9 0.07 cm) and percent of shoots (86.0%) induced roots were recorded on half strength (½) MS medium containing IBA (2.0 mg/l). The aftermaths of this study showed that nodal segments were better explants than shoot tips for the in vitro micropropagation of Noni. J. Bio-Sci. 33(2): 43-50, 2025
The spotted snakehead fish, scientifically known as Channa punctata, is highly popular in Bangladesh under both fresh and dry conditions. This work aimed to use both traditional and molecular methods to discover the fungus associated with dried C. punctata. The fungus's cultural characteristics were also examined. Aspergillus flavus, a very common fungus in dry C. punctata, was characterized molecularly using a 594 bp PCR product of its ITS (internal transcribed spacer) region. The sequence was submitted to NCBI under accession number PX122472.1 (JUF0125). The molecular phylogenetic tree derived from it revealed that A. flavus species complex had 100% sequence similarity. Mycelial growth characteristics analysis of the fungus revealed that Hennerberg (56 mm) and yeast extract mannitol (28 mm) culture media, respectively, showed the highest and lowest mycelial growth rates. The optimal pH and temperature for mycelial growth of A. flavus were 7 and 30℃, respectively. To the best of our knowledge, this experimental identification of the dry fish fungus Aspergillus flavus associated with C. punctata is the first report and confirmation of a fungus in Bangladesh using both classical and molecular approaches. J. Bio-Sci. 33(2): 21-28, 2025
