Faraz Akrim | Arid Agriculture University Rawalpindi (original) (raw)

Papers by Faraz Akrim

Research paper thumbnail of Habitat preference and roosting behaviour of the Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus (Aves: Galliformes: Phasianidae) in Deva Vatala National Park, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan

Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Metal concentrations in common skittering frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis) inhabiting Korang River, Islamabad, Pakistan

Basic and Applied Herpetology, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of bait station design on bait uptake by rodents in poultry farms of Rawalpindi-Islamabad area, Pakistan

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Floristic composition, biological spectrum and conservation status of the vegetation in Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Phenanthrene biodegradation by sphingomonads and its application in the contaminated soils and sediments: A review

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Development of cereal baits and comparative field efficacy of some additives as bait carrier for zinc phosphide and coumatetralyl against rodent pests of poultry farms in Rawalpindi–Islamabad, Pakistan

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi) in Deva Vatala National Park, District Bhimber, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Annual Research & Review in Biology, 2015

The aim of this study was to document threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi).

Research paper thumbnail of Temporal Variation in Reproductive Physiology of Small Indian Mongoose Male, Herpestes javanicus, Inhabiting Potohar Plateau, Pakistan

Small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), a small carnivore, has a crucial role in the food we... more Small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), a small carnivore, has a crucial role in the food web, especially in agro-ecosystems where it serves as biological control agent for rodents, snakes, and some insects. In Pakistan, the scientific studies on reproductive biology of this species, vital for its management perspective, are scanty. We investigated male reproductive pattern of this species in Potohar Plateau by estimating concentrations of its male reproductive hormones and studying cellular changes inside the testes. The concentrations of testosterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) were measured by using ELISA kits, while cellular changes inside the testes were studied by using histological procedures. Testosterone concentrations were found

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Aquaculture Feeding Practices on Commercial Fish Farming in Rawalpindi District, Pakistan

A field survey was carried out in three tehsils namely Rawalpindi, Gujar khan and Kahuta) of Rawa... more A field survey was carried out in three tehsils namely Rawalpindi, Gujar khan and Kahuta) of Rawalpindi district. A predefined questionnaire was used to gather the information. In the studied farms the average stocking rate of 1200 fingerlings/acre with average weight of 4 grams were stocked. The fingerlings were fed with constant feeding rate of 3% of their body weight. On average the fish ponds have been fertilized with 9-12 kg -1 acre -1 week -1 cow dung and poultry droppings as organic fertilizer, 5 kg/acre/week urea and 3 kg -1 acre -1 week -1 DAP (diammonium phosphate) as inorganic fertilizer. Highest production obtained with balanced supplemented followed by standard feed and conventional feed for Labeo rohita (373.56, 344.26 and 286.40 kg/acre/year respectively). Kawan et al.; ARRB, 8(2): 1-10, 2015; Article no.ARRB.20038 2 Cirrhinus mrigala highest production was with balanced supplemented and standard feed 304.22 and 282.71 kg/acre/year) and lowest with conventional feed (207.22 kg -1 acre -1 year -1

Research paper thumbnail of Breeding habits of the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Potohar Plateau, Pakistan

The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) has been recently listed by the International Union for... more The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) has been recently listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as an endangered species throughout its range, but in Pakistan it is categorized as vulnerable. Very little is known about the breeding habits of this nocturnal and fossorial animal in the wild. The present paper provides information on breeding ecology of its population in Potohar Plateau in Pakistan. A total of 13 specimens were trapped to record breeding condition of the captured animals. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was conducted in the study area to collect breeding data on the species. Our limited data show a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. The local population seems to breed once a year, usually from July to October, with a litter size of one to two. The juvenile pangolins were observed during the months of January, April and December.

Research paper thumbnail of Threats to Red Jungle Fowl in Deva Vatala National Park Bhimber Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

The aim of this study was to document threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi).

Research paper thumbnail of Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides in Unmarried Males and Females of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

The current study was conducted to determine the total Cholesterol, Triglyceridesand BMI of unmar... more The current study was conducted to determine the total Cholesterol, Triglyceridesand BMI of unmarried males and females. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in District Bhimber, Azad Kashmir during June 2010 to December 2010. Methodology: The blood samples were collected from the subjects and strip method was used for checking level of cholesterol and triglycerides. There were 300 subjects divided into males (150) and females (150). The subjects were further subdivided into three age groups, 16-25 (n=50), 26-35 (n=50) and 36-45 (n=50). Results: The mean cholesterol level in male subjects of different age groups was 155.8mg/dl, 161.7mg/dl, and 148.9mg/dl, while in females the mean cholesterol level was 154.2mg/dl, 148.9mg/dl, and 155.3mg/dl, respectively. The mean triglyceride level in males was 106.6mg/dl, 113.6 mg/dl, and 167.3 mg/dl, and in females the mean triglyceride 4085 level was 96.3 mg/dl, 113.7 mg/dl, and 117.1 mg/dl, respectively. The mean blood pressure in male was 120/73mmHg, 122/79mmHg, and 124.5/77.5mmHg, and in females the mean blood pressure was 111/83mmHg, 117/75mmHg, 122/78mmHg, respectively. The mean BMI in males was 22.3kg/m 2 , 22.6kg/m 2 , and 20.9kg/m 2 , and in females mean was 24.5kg/m 2 , 22.6kg/m 2 , and 25.6kg/m 2 , respectively. Conclusion: The current study established levels of SBP, DBP, Cholesterol, Triglycerides levels and BMI of different age groups of unmarried males and females.

Research paper thumbnail of Examining relationship between environmental gradients and Lesser Himalyan forest vegetation of Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir using ordination analysis

Objective: To report the relationship of vegetation structure and environmental gradient and phys... more Objective: To report the relationship of vegetation structure and environmental gradient and physiochemical properties of soil at Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir . Methods: A survey of natural vegetation and soil of Nikyal valley was undertaken. Phytosociological survey was conducted by using Braun-Blanquet's approach. The study also investigated the vegetation structure and its relationship with altitude and edaphic factors. The floristic data was analyzed by cluster anlaysis, detrended correspondence analysis and canonical correspondence analysis using CANACOO 5.0. Results: A total of 110 plant species and 13 stands were merged into five major associations as dema rcated by cluster analysis and detrended correspondence analysis. The associations were Olea-Pinus-Themeda association, Myrsine-Rhus-Quercus association, Quercus-Rubus-Pinus association and Quercus association. Soil organic matter, saturation, pH and altitude play the major role in distribution of species. Conclusions: The variation in vegetation structure is controlled by the altitudinal gradient and physiochemical properties of soil. These results indicate a deteriorated forest structure and reduced regeneration pattern, demanding immediate attention of forest management authorities.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal and Altitudinal Variation of Herbaceous Biomass of Nikyal Range Land, District Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir

The aim of this study was to report the seasonal and altitudinal variation in herbaceous biomass ... more The aim of this study was to report the seasonal and altitudinal variation in herbaceous biomass along with the productivity of area. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Nikyal valley located at altitudinal range of 1500-1900 m within the longitude 74o 04 to 10 east and latitude 33o 26 to 29 north during July 2012 to June 2013. Methodology: The forage biomass was calculated by Harvest method using 1m 2 quadrat. Five quadrats were selected from each community permanently. Above ground grasses and forbs were clipped up to 2cm and were placed in separate polythene bags. Both grasses and forbs were separately weighed and average was taken. The results were expressed in Kilo grams per hectares. Monthly sampling over one year was carried to

Research paper thumbnail of ALTITUDINAL VARIATION IN PLANT SPECIES DIVERSITY AND ITS COMPONENTS AT KOTLI HILLS, AZAD KASHMIR

The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 590 to 1860 m at Kotli Hills. Species diversity and its components values were high in the tree layer (Pinus Archives Des Sciences Vol 66, No. 5;May 2013 615 ISSN 1661 communities) in the middle part of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.

Research paper thumbnail of Illegal Mass Killing of Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Potohar Region, Pakistan

Massive and ruthless killing of

Research paper thumbnail of Habitat preference and roosting behaviour of the Red Junglefowl Gallus gallus (Aves: Galliformes: Phasianidae) in Deva Vatala National Park, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, Pakistan

Journal of Threatened Taxa, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Metal concentrations in common skittering frog (Euphlyctis cyanophlyctis) inhabiting Korang River, Islamabad, Pakistan

Basic and Applied Herpetology, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Influence of bait station design on bait uptake by rodents in poultry farms of Rawalpindi-Islamabad area, Pakistan

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Floristic composition, biological spectrum and conservation status of the vegetation in Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir

Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Disease, 2016

Research paper thumbnail of Phenanthrene biodegradation by sphingomonads and its application in the contaminated soils and sediments: A review

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Development of cereal baits and comparative field efficacy of some additives as bait carrier for zinc phosphide and coumatetralyl against rodent pests of poultry farms in Rawalpindi–Islamabad, Pakistan

International Biodeterioration & Biodegradation, 2015

Research paper thumbnail of Threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi) in Deva Vatala National Park, District Bhimber, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

Annual Research & Review in Biology, 2015

The aim of this study was to document threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi).

Research paper thumbnail of Temporal Variation in Reproductive Physiology of Small Indian Mongoose Male, Herpestes javanicus, Inhabiting Potohar Plateau, Pakistan

Small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), a small carnivore, has a crucial role in the food we... more Small Indian mongoose (Herpestes javanicus), a small carnivore, has a crucial role in the food web, especially in agro-ecosystems where it serves as biological control agent for rodents, snakes, and some insects. In Pakistan, the scientific studies on reproductive biology of this species, vital for its management perspective, are scanty. We investigated male reproductive pattern of this species in Potohar Plateau by estimating concentrations of its male reproductive hormones and studying cellular changes inside the testes. The concentrations of testosterone, FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) were measured by using ELISA kits, while cellular changes inside the testes were studied by using histological procedures. Testosterone concentrations were found

Research paper thumbnail of Effect of Aquaculture Feeding Practices on Commercial Fish Farming in Rawalpindi District, Pakistan

A field survey was carried out in three tehsils namely Rawalpindi, Gujar khan and Kahuta) of Rawa... more A field survey was carried out in three tehsils namely Rawalpindi, Gujar khan and Kahuta) of Rawalpindi district. A predefined questionnaire was used to gather the information. In the studied farms the average stocking rate of 1200 fingerlings/acre with average weight of 4 grams were stocked. The fingerlings were fed with constant feeding rate of 3% of their body weight. On average the fish ponds have been fertilized with 9-12 kg -1 acre -1 week -1 cow dung and poultry droppings as organic fertilizer, 5 kg/acre/week urea and 3 kg -1 acre -1 week -1 DAP (diammonium phosphate) as inorganic fertilizer. Highest production obtained with balanced supplemented followed by standard feed and conventional feed for Labeo rohita (373.56, 344.26 and 286.40 kg/acre/year respectively). Kawan et al.; ARRB, 8(2): 1-10, 2015; Article no.ARRB.20038 2 Cirrhinus mrigala highest production was with balanced supplemented and standard feed 304.22 and 282.71 kg/acre/year) and lowest with conventional feed (207.22 kg -1 acre -1 year -1

Research paper thumbnail of Breeding habits of the Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Potohar Plateau, Pakistan

The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) has been recently listed by the International Union for... more The Indian pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) has been recently listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature as an endangered species throughout its range, but in Pakistan it is categorized as vulnerable. Very little is known about the breeding habits of this nocturnal and fossorial animal in the wild. The present paper provides information on breeding ecology of its population in Potohar Plateau in Pakistan. A total of 13 specimens were trapped to record breeding condition of the captured animals. Additionally, a questionnaire survey was conducted in the study area to collect breeding data on the species. Our limited data show a male-to-female ratio of 1.6:1. The local population seems to breed once a year, usually from July to October, with a litter size of one to two. The juvenile pangolins were observed during the months of January, April and December.

Research paper thumbnail of Threats to Red Jungle Fowl in Deva Vatala National Park Bhimber Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

The aim of this study was to document threats to Red Junglefowl (Gallus gallus murghi).

Research paper thumbnail of Total Cholesterol and Triglycerides in Unmarried Males and Females of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, Pakistan

The current study was conducted to determine the total Cholesterol, Triglyceridesand BMI of unmar... more The current study was conducted to determine the total Cholesterol, Triglyceridesand BMI of unmarried males and females. Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in District Bhimber, Azad Kashmir during June 2010 to December 2010. Methodology: The blood samples were collected from the subjects and strip method was used for checking level of cholesterol and triglycerides. There were 300 subjects divided into males (150) and females (150). The subjects were further subdivided into three age groups, 16-25 (n=50), 26-35 (n=50) and 36-45 (n=50). Results: The mean cholesterol level in male subjects of different age groups was 155.8mg/dl, 161.7mg/dl, and 148.9mg/dl, while in females the mean cholesterol level was 154.2mg/dl, 148.9mg/dl, and 155.3mg/dl, respectively. The mean triglyceride level in males was 106.6mg/dl, 113.6 mg/dl, and 167.3 mg/dl, and in females the mean triglyceride 4085 level was 96.3 mg/dl, 113.7 mg/dl, and 117.1 mg/dl, respectively. The mean blood pressure in male was 120/73mmHg, 122/79mmHg, and 124.5/77.5mmHg, and in females the mean blood pressure was 111/83mmHg, 117/75mmHg, 122/78mmHg, respectively. The mean BMI in males was 22.3kg/m 2 , 22.6kg/m 2 , and 20.9kg/m 2 , and in females mean was 24.5kg/m 2 , 22.6kg/m 2 , and 25.6kg/m 2 , respectively. Conclusion: The current study established levels of SBP, DBP, Cholesterol, Triglycerides levels and BMI of different age groups of unmarried males and females.

Research paper thumbnail of Examining relationship between environmental gradients and Lesser Himalyan forest vegetation of Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir using ordination analysis

Objective: To report the relationship of vegetation structure and environmental gradient and phys... more Objective: To report the relationship of vegetation structure and environmental gradient and physiochemical properties of soil at Nikyal valley, Azad Jammu and Kashmir . Methods: A survey of natural vegetation and soil of Nikyal valley was undertaken. Phytosociological survey was conducted by using Braun-Blanquet's approach. The study also investigated the vegetation structure and its relationship with altitude and edaphic factors. The floristic data was analyzed by cluster anlaysis, detrended correspondence analysis and canonical correspondence analysis using CANACOO 5.0. Results: A total of 110 plant species and 13 stands were merged into five major associations as dema rcated by cluster analysis and detrended correspondence analysis. The associations were Olea-Pinus-Themeda association, Myrsine-Rhus-Quercus association, Quercus-Rubus-Pinus association and Quercus association. Soil organic matter, saturation, pH and altitude play the major role in distribution of species. Conclusions: The variation in vegetation structure is controlled by the altitudinal gradient and physiochemical properties of soil. These results indicate a deteriorated forest structure and reduced regeneration pattern, demanding immediate attention of forest management authorities.

Research paper thumbnail of Seasonal and Altitudinal Variation of Herbaceous Biomass of Nikyal Range Land, District Kotli Azad Jammu and Kashmir

The aim of this study was to report the seasonal and altitudinal variation in herbaceous biomass ... more The aim of this study was to report the seasonal and altitudinal variation in herbaceous biomass along with the productivity of area. Place and Duration of Study: This study was conducted in Nikyal valley located at altitudinal range of 1500-1900 m within the longitude 74o 04 to 10 east and latitude 33o 26 to 29 north during July 2012 to June 2013. Methodology: The forage biomass was calculated by Harvest method using 1m 2 quadrat. Five quadrats were selected from each community permanently. Above ground grasses and forbs were clipped up to 2cm and were placed in separate polythene bags. Both grasses and forbs were separately weighed and average was taken. The results were expressed in Kilo grams per hectares. Monthly sampling over one year was carried to

Research paper thumbnail of ALTITUDINAL VARIATION IN PLANT SPECIES DIVERSITY AND ITS COMPONENTS AT KOTLI HILLS, AZAD KASHMIR

The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ran... more The present study reveals species diversity and its components along the altitudinal gradient ranged from 590 to 1860 m at Kotli Hills. Species diversity and its components values were high in the tree layer (Pinus Archives Des Sciences Vol 66, No. 5;May 2013 615 ISSN 1661 communities) in the middle part of the altitudinal gradient. It decreases both towards upper and lower altitude, which was due to different environmental and anthropogenic factors such as deforestation, human interaction, encroachment pressure, low number of species and soil erosion. There is great need of reforestation in the area. Alternate sources of fuel must be provided to local inhabitants to minimize the pressure on wealth of wild plants.

Research paper thumbnail of Illegal Mass Killing of Indian Pangolin (Manis crassicaudata) in Potohar Region, Pakistan

Massive and ruthless killing of