Showing papers in "African Journal of Agricultural Research in 2019"

Enhancing agricultural sustainability and productivity under changing climate conditions through improved agroforestry practices in smallholder farming systems in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: Fighting climate change and its nefarious effects is at the forefront of the United Nations’ SDGs, agenda 2030. This comes at a time when the global climate is changing rapidly owing to increasing concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) and other greenhouse gases (GHGs) in the atmosphere resulting principally from fossil fuel combustion and agricultural lands taking the place of tropical forests. Climate change threatens human existence in general and the livelihood of smallholder farmers in particular in the 21st century. Research shows that the developing world has about 500 million small-scale farms, with almost two billion people implicated, a majority of them in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa where small-scale farms produce about 80% of the food consumed. Hence, smallholder farmers will bear the greatest brunt of predicted changes in climatic patterns owing to their limited adaptive capacity. Small-scale farmers being appallingly vulnerable, easily succumb to climate-induced extreme weather events, thus threatening food security. It is therefore within this backdrop that the necessity to document and promote climate-smart, sustainable, productive and low cost agricultural practices becomes incumbent. Agroforestry is one of the few existing practices that contribute simultaneously to agricultural sustainability enhancement as well as improved farm productivity owing to its ability to provide many ecosystem services. There are currently very few existing agricultural practices where sustainable agricultural goals can be attained through simultaneous enhancement of agro-ecosystem diversity and farm productivity as in agroforestry systems. Today, few studies have looked into the contribution of agroforestry to beefing up agricultural sustainability and productivity in the context of climate change. This review paper therefore sought to research on what has been done so far as well as look into the way forward with focus on sub-Saharan Africa. Key words: Climate change, agroforestry practices, agricultural sustainability, agricultural productivity, sub-Saharan Africa

Land use land cover change trend and its drivers in Somodo watershed South Western, Ethiopia.

Abstract: Land use land cover (LULC) dynamics are a widespread, accelerating, and significant process driven by human actions. LULC changes analysis is one of the most precise techniques to understand how land was used in the past, what types of changes are to be expected in the future, as well as the forces and processes behind the changes. This study was carried out to evaluate the historical and future trends as well as driving forces of LULC changes in Somodo watershed South Western, Ethiopia. It was accompanied using satellite image of Landsat5 TM 1985 and 1995, Landsat7 ETM+ 1999, 2005 and Landsat8 OLI/TIROS 2017. In addition, field observations, Key informant interview (KII) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD) were also conducted. ERDAS Imagine 9.1, QGIS 2.18 and IDRSI Selva 17.00, software were used for satellite image processing, map preparation, and LULC change prediction respectively. During the 32 year period between 1985 and 2017, the proportion of area covered by forest and agriculture was decreased by 60.57 ha (12.7%) and 5.22 ha (1.1%) respectively. In contrast, home garden Agroforestry/settlement and grassland were increased by 49.77 ha (7.5%) and 16.02 ha (6.7%) respectively. If the existing rate of LULC change lasts, in 2029 agriculture and forestland are predicted to increase by 91.24 ha and 20.52 ha respectively, while grassland and home garden Agroforestry/settlement are predicted to decrease by 99.97 ha and 11.79 ha respectively. LULC change in the study area is an outcome of several proximate and underlying drivers. The major proximate driving forces of LULC change in the watershed are illegal logging and fuel wood extraction, Expansion of plantation, expansion of settlement, agricultural expansion, and construction of infrastructures. Demographic, Economic, Technological, Institution and policy, and Biophysical factors constitute the major underlying drivers of LULC change in the study area. Population growth is the major underlying cause for LULC change in the study area. Then, Participatory Forest Management through plantation and community nursery expansion is required for forest cover improvement in the watershed. This study also suggests further study on the impact of LULC change in the area. Key words: Drivers, geographic information system (GIS), Land use/Land cover Change prediction, Somodo Watershed.

A review on golden species of Zingiberaceae family around the world: Genus Curcuma

Abstract: Genus Curcuma has a long history of traditional uses, ranging from folk medicine to its culinary uses. More than 70 species of Curcuma are distributed throughout the world but extensively cultivate in Asian, Australian and Western African counties. Many phytochemical, pharmacological and molecular studies have been conducted on several Curcuma species worldwide. The interest on its medicinal properties have increased due to the discovery of novel bioactive compounds which possessing wide range of bioactivities such as antioxidant, antiviral, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammation activities. Furthermore, this valuable plant is used as natural dye, insecticide and as a repellent. This review focuses on gathering information regarding genus Curcuma including morphological characteristics, phytochemicals and their biological and pharmacological activities which provide information for further advance research studies. Key words: Curcuma, biological activity, morphology, pharmacology, phytochemicals.

An assessment of adaptation options enhancing smallholder farmers resilience to climate variability and change: Case of Mbengwi Central Sub-Division, North-West Region of Cameroon

Abstract: Farmers’ implementation of suitable adaptation measures in the face of climate variability and change (CVC) depends first and foremost on their ability to perceive CVC. This paper analyzes the adaptation measures implemented by smallholder farmers (SHFs) in Mbengwi Central Sub-Division, North-West Region of Cameroon in the face of CVC as well as the determinants of smallholder farmers’ choice of adaptation measures. Climate data collected from meteorological stations in the study area and farmers’ perceptions obtained through household surveys were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency tables, bar charts, histograms and percentage indices) and inferential statistics (Coefficient of Variation and the Multinomial Logistic (MNL) regression model). Farmers’ perceptions of CVC were then compared with actual short and long term meteorological data for the study area. Analysis was done on SPSS 17.0, Microsoft Excel 2007, and STATA 7.0. The results revealed that a majority of the respondents perceived an increase in temperature (79.2%) and a drop in the quantity of rainfall (59.2%) which corroborated almost perfectly with the analyzed meteorological data for the study area. From the twelve adaptation measures identified by SHFs, home gardens emerged as the most prevalent adaptation measure in the study area. Following the categorization of the multifarious adaptation measures implemented by SHFs, agroforestry practices emerged as the most prevalent adaptation measure. Results of the MNL regression model revealed that the main determinants of farmers’ choice of adaptation measures in the study area were age of household head, number of farms possessed, farm size, and access to weather information (p<0.05). Key words: Climate variability and change, smallholder farmers, adaptation measures, agroforestry practices, Mbengwi Central Sub-division, Cameroon.

Cleome gynandra L. origin, taxonomy and morphology: A review

Abstract: Cleome gynandra L. is one of the traditional leafy vegetables in Africa and Asia providing essential minerals and vitamins to the diet and income of resource poor communities. Despite these benefits, the crop has not been studied extensively resulting in lack of scientific information to guide crop improvement research and associated agronomic practices. The taxonomy of the crop, its reproductive behaviour, genome size, ploidy level and origin are neither readily available nor well understood. This paper reviews existing literatures in these areas to provide information for future research and development of the crop. Reading the review, one could appreciate the taxonomic classification of the genus is still under debate despite recent molecular studies that placed the crop in the Cleomaceae family as opposed to previous studies that classified it under Capparaceae family. According to present review the crop belongs to the Kingdom of Plantae, Phylum spermatophyta, Division Magnoliophyta, Class Magnoliopsida, Order Brassicales and the Family of Cleomaceae. Different genome sizes of C. gynandra have been reported which still warrant further investigation. Various studies reported different ploidy levels including diploid, triploid and polyploid indicating the need of further investigation to clarify the taxonomy, genome size and ploidy level(s) of the crop. Key words: Chromosome, genome size, indigenous leafy vegetables, morphology, ploidy level, spider plant.

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) production trends in Cameroon: A review

Abstract: Yam (Dioscorea spp.) cultivation has the potentials to greatly contribute to poverty alleviation and food security, in Cameroon. The full production potentials of yams have not been exploited, leaving Cameroon with an annual production of 648,407 metric tons (MT) at the sixth position, among the six countries of the West African yam zone, with 67.3 million MT. This review highlights research gaps in the yam production chain, which can be exploited to enhance production in the country. Subsistent yam cultivation takes place in all five agro-ecological zones of the country. Although with many fluctuations, yield and production quantities have recorded a marginal net increase, since 1961. Cameroon has nine cultivated and 17 wild species, exploited by Baka pigmies for food, but there is no established genebank, thereby exposing the genotypes to genetic erosion. Cultivated species are both indigenous and exotic, and traditional seed systems (sorting, junking, and milking) are exploited for seed procurement. Minisett technology is also gaining grounds. Yam processing is very limited, and, coupled with poor conservation facilities, contributes to elevated post-harvest losses. The yam marketing system is poorly organized, and hinders farmers from reaping optimum benefit from the activity. Other major constraints to yam production include high labour demand, pests and diseases, absence of improved seeds and research neglect. There is the need for concerted efforts involving all stake holders in the yam production chain to enhance yam production in Cameroon. Key words: Review, yam (Dioscorea spp.), production, Cameroon.

Levels of some toxic heavy metals (Cr, Cd and Pb) in selected vegetables and soil around eastern industry zone, central Ethiopia

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the concentration of heavy metals (Cr, Cd and Pb) in vegetables and the soil contaminating levels as a result of irrigation using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). The wet digestion and sequential fractionation extraction procedures were employed to solubilize the metals from the collected samples. The results obtained from this study showed overall concentration of heavy metals Cr, Cd and Pb respectively, in the range of (2.90-3.77), (2.20-3.68) and (4.60-5.50) (mg/Kg) in the edible parts of sampled vegetables. Whereas, concentrations (mg/Kg) of the metals in the soil samples were found to be in the ranges of 22.37-66.30, 27.93-45.33 and 18.82-64.87 for Cr, Cd and Pb, respectively. The modified Tessier sequential extraction procedure was used to fractionate the above three metals from the soil samples into five fractions. In this study the heavy metals were predominantly concentrated in residual fraction (F5); since lead was mainly associated with the organic matter bounded fraction (F4) (34.33-43.45%), it was found to be more bioavailable and mobile than the other investigated heavy metals. The concentrations of heavy metals (Cr, Cd and Pb) in the soil and vegetable samples were above the recommended limit of both WHO and FAO. But Pb for the soil samples was smaller than WHO and FAO recommended limit. Based on facts obtained from this study we suggests concerned official body (ies) to take the necessary precaution measures for cleaning the polluted area. Key words: Heavy metals, sequential fractionation, eastern industry zone.

Improving agricultural productivity on salt-affected soils in Ethiopia: Farmers perceptions and proposals

Abstract: This paper presents the results of a baseline study carried out to understand farmers’ perceptions about the existence of salinity in their farmlands and its impact on agricultural production and household food security. The strategies adopted by farmers to deal with the salinity and food insecurity problems are also discussed. The survey data were collected from a total of 300 farmers from five districts of Ethiopia. Farmers were selected using a random sampling from a household list. Focus Group Discussions were conducted with farmers in each district to investigate their perceptions of the soil salinity, its impacts and their adaptive strategies. Data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS descriptive statistics and chi-square test. Farmers’ responses showed that they were concerned about increasing soil salinity problems and its impact on their crop productivity and well-being. The results show that observing white crust and dark brown color of the soil are the major indicators used by farmers to identify salinity on their fields. Poor irrigation and drainage management problems are perceived as the main causes for salinity development. Salinity directly effects crop productivity and household incomes, which leads to food insecurity. The crop production losses due to soil salinity ranged from 10 to 70%. Performing off-farm jobs, selling household assets and joining food aid programs are the common coping strategies adopted by farmers. Farmers’ perceptions on salinity should be used as an entry point by different stakeholders to develop strategies for the salt-affected areas. Key words: Soil salinity, food security, crop productivity, coping strategies, rural poverty.

Crop abiotic stresses and nutrition of harvested food crops: A Review of impacts, interventions and their effectiveness

Abstract: In tandem with the accelerating effects of climate change, efforts to increase agricultural productivity to feed the growing population are still being extensively rolled out in Africa. That notwithstanding, a large population in the continent remains food and nutrition insecure; rendering malnutrition the biggest public health challenge. Coupled with the increased incidences of abiotic stresses, developing countries are particularly in dire need to seek options that will sustain both yield and nutritional value of their food crops. Presently, nutritional quality deserves more attention than yield alone, hence factors perturbing it are of an immense importance. While the effects of abiotic stresses on agricultural productivity are unequivocal, their influence on nutritional quality of food crops is still hazy. In the simplest presentation of the synergy between humans, plants and the environment; man gets nutrients from plants, which source nutrients from the soil (environment). We hypothesized that abiotic factors are a double-edged sword with unclear plausible consequences on nutritional status of food crops and consequently humans. In a multifaceted approach, this review concisely presents an overview of malnutrition in Africa, intimate synergy between agriculture and nutrition, and unravels the effects of abiotic stresses on the nutrition status of harvested crops. While the effects are dynamic under many factors, the present work uncovers that abiotic stresses predominantly increase antioxidants, proteins and carbohydrates due to their contributory role in abiotic stress tolerance. It further acknowledges the promising interventions that have been implemented in this light, but in order to impact significantly on human nutrition, we call for a more collaborative approach cognizant of the complexity of this phenomenon. Key words: Abiotic stresses, nutrition, agriculture, antioxidants, climate change, breeding.

Malt Barley (Hordeum distichon L.) varieties performance evaluation in North Shewa, Ethiopia

Abstract: Malt barley is the most important cereal crop grown in highland parts of Ethiopia. Even though Ethiopia has favorable environment and potential market opportunity, the share of malting barley production is quite low (about 15%) as compared to food barley. One reason for low production is the use of low yielding varieties. The present investigation was conducted in a randomized complete block design with three replications in Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, during 2015 and 2016 main cropping seasons to assess the performance of malt barley varieties for yield and yield related traits. Eight released and promising genotypes (Beka, EH1847, Bahati, Bekoji-01, Traveller, Holker, Sabini and Miskal-21) were evaluated. The mean square due to genotypes, year, and interaction effect were significant (P<0.05) for all traits studied except harvest index. Variety by year interaction effect also differed significantly for all characters except spike weight and harvest index. The highest yields were found from EH1847, Beka and Holker, (3.69, 3.53 and 3.72 ton/ha respectively) while the lowest yield (2.72 ton/ha) was recorded from Miskal-21. Variety EH1847 scored high yielding in both years hence, the use of either of EH1847 variety with full package for mass production in Debre Berhan and similar agroecology would increase malt barley production. Key words: Evaluation, malt barley (Hordeum distichon L.), variety selection, yield, correlation.

Comparison of cyanobacterial bio-fertilizer with urea on three crops and two soils of Ethiopia

Abstract: Although chemical fertilizers have long been used to meet the high demand of nitrogen (N), the most common limiting nutrient to plant growth, the frequent use of this fertilizer gradually deteriorates soil fertility in addition to its high cost, lower supply and agronomic use efficiency in Ethiopia. Nevertheless, N-fixing cyanobacterial biofertilizers are eco-friendly, and currently considered important to support the developing organic agriculture. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the potential of cyanobacterial biofertilizer for the growth and yield of three commonly growing crops in Ethiopia: maize, kale, and pepper under Alfisol and Andosol, and to investigate the potential contribution of cyanobacteria biofertilizer in selected soil fertility parameters. Three independent factorial experiments were conducted simultaneously in the greenhouse. Each experiment included a factorial combination of four nitrogen fertilizer sources applied at recommendation rate for each crop (control, urea, dried cyanobacteria, and liquid cyanobacteria,) and two soil types with acidic and alkaline pH (Alfisols and Andosols, respectively) arranged in a complete randomized design (CRD) with three replications. Application of dried and liquid cyanobacterial biofertilizer treatments significantly improves the soil N, soil organic carbon (SOC) and available P, Fe and Zn. Cyanobacteria treatments were also found to reduce or maintain the mean soil pH. Accordingly, maximum values of all the vegetative growth attributes of kale, and maize were obtained from the application of two comparable-fertilizer treatments: air-dried cyanobacteria and urea while for pepper crops only dried cyanobacteria. Concentrations of N, P, Zn, and Fe in leaves of kale, pepper, and maize were also significantly increased by air-dried cyanobacterial biofertilizer. Overall, dried cyanobacteria improved the growth and yield of the three crops, and the fertility of the soils. Therefore, the use of dry cyanobacterial biofertilizer could be recommended as a supplementary N source to inorganic fertilizer for kale, pepper and maize production in both study sites. Key words: Alfisols, andosols, biofertilizers, cyanobacteria, N-fixing.

Market preferences for cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) dry grain in Ghana

Abstract: Cowpea is an important crop in Ghana, serving as a major source of calories and high-quality protein for many people. An understanding of market preferences is necessary when targeting research and breeding efforts. This study makes use of data from 562 samples of cowpea dry grain collected from 91 markets across Ghana, analyzed using the hedonic model framework, to determine implicit prices of characteristics, including seed coat color, pattern, texture, the location of purchase, the gender of the vendor, seed size, and seed quality. The results indicate that market location and seed size are the most important characteristics regarding pricing. Improvements in infrastructure to facilitate transport of goods and dissemination of varieties with increased seed size could improve incomes for the smallholder farmers in Ghana who produce cowpea. Key words: Characteristic value, consumer demand, hedonic pricing, seed coat, Vigna unguiculata.

Mango (Mangifera indica L.) production practices and constraints in major production regions of Ethiopia

Abstract: Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is the second among fruit crops in Ethiopia in its production coverage and economical importance. However, compared to the countries’ potential, it is at the infant stage. This study was conducted to identify the main mango cultivars, production practices and constraints in east and western Ethiopia in 2016. Study areas were selected purposively based on their extensive mango production. Thirty-one cultivars of unknown origin were identified based on farmers’ characterization criteria. The majority of the farmers were found not to apply fertilizers (63.7%), supplementary irrigation (87.6%), nor prune their mangos (50%). About 50% of growers revealed fruit yield of 100-200 kg/tree and harvest fully ripe. Packaging and transportation of mangos were entirely below the standard. Availability of agricultural inputs such as fertilizers and pesticides, pest, knowledge and skill gap, and availability of improved varieties were the major constraints. Assessment of similarities in terms of farming system, mango production practices, harvest, post-harvest handling, marketing, and their constraints indicated that 76.9% of growers were similar. Therefore, improvement of the pre and post-production practices, utilization and/or conservation of the identified cultivars, and addressing the constraints will be crucial to improving the mango sector in Ethiopia. Key words: Interview, mango cultivars, tropical fruit, biodiversity.

Efficiency of Trichoderma asperellum UFT 201 as plant growth promoter in soybean

Abstract: Filamentous fungi of the genus Trichoderma are known for their activity as plant growth promoters. The objective of this work was to evaluate the efficiency of the Trichoderma asperellum UFT 201 strain as a plant growth promoter in soybean. The ability of phosphate solubilization, indole acetic acid synthesis and the effect on soybean plant growth under greenhouse conditions were evaluated in four experiments. In vitro and in vivo analyzes were performed. Plant biomass characteristics such as shoot dry mass (SDM), root dry mass (RDM) and total dry mass (TDM) were evaluated. T. asperellum UFT 201 showed a significantly higher concentration (p <0.05) with a phosphate solubilization capacity of 67.8% higher than the positive control treatment (Trichoderma harzianum). The production of indole acetic acid (IAA) by T. asperellum UFT 201 was 26.7% higher than the positive control. The effect on the biomass treated by T. asperellum UFT 201 was higher (p <0.05) than the positive and absolute controls. Thus, inoculation by T. asperellum UFT 201 showed high efficiency as a growth promoter in soybean. Key words: Phosphate solubilization, indole acetic acid, growth promoter, Glycine max.

Levels of some selected metals (Fe, Cu and Zn) in selected vegetables and soil around eastern industry zone, central Ethiopia

Abstract: The purpose of this study was to determine the concentration of selected metals (Fe, Zn and Cu) in vegetables and the soil contaminating levels due to irrigation, using Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (FAAS). The wet digestion and sequential fractionation extraction procedures were employed to solubilize the metals from the collected samples. The results obtained from this study showed overall concentration of selected metals Fe, Zn and Cu respectively, in the range of (358.17 to 547.17), (45.63 to 62.46) and (10.20 to 15.07) (mg /Kg) in the edible parts of sampled vegetables whereas, concentrations (mg/kg) of the metals in the soil samples were found to be in the ranges of (12051 to 20065), (69.37 to 123.77) and (68.47 to 146.10) for Fe, Zn and Cu, respectively. The modified Tessier sequential extraction procedure was used to fractionate the above three metals from the soil samples into five fractions. In this study the detected metals were predominantly concentrated in residual fraction (F5); zinc was mainly associated with the residual fraction (F5) (87.14 to 96.40%) which is highly stable. The mobility factors of Zn, Fe and Cu were 0.908 to 3.044, 0.216 to 0.443 and 0.314 to 1.968, respectively. The concentrations of Fe and Cu in the soil and vegetable samples were above the recommended limit of both WHO and FAO; also, Zn vegetable samples was above the limit. However, Zn for the soil samples was smaller than WHO and FAO recommended limit. Based on facts obtained from this study, it was suggested that concerned official body (ies) take the necessary precaution measures to clean the polluted area. Key words: Metals, sequential fractionation, soil, vegetables, quantity.

Local knowledge of pumpkin production, performance and utilization systems for value addition avenues from selected agro-ecological zones of Uganda

Abstract: Pumpkin is one of the underutilized fruit vegetables in Uganda despite the fact that it has wide spectrum of both nutritional and medicinal values. A survey was carried out to document local knowledge of pumpkin production; performance and utilization systems to aid the selection of pumpkin varieties to be used for particular value addition avenues. It was observed that twelve varieties of pumpkin are commonly grown and they are mainly distinguished by their skin colour, texture of epicarp and shape. Pumpkin production levels on large scale, small scale and subsistence were at 27.8, 66.7 and 5.6% respectively. Farmers reported that ‘pumpkin seeds are usually sown directly into the main garden;’ thus, nursery beds are rarely used by the farmers. Farmers appreciate the crop’s nutritional and medicinal values, in addition to being a source of livelihood. Pumpkin fruit vegetable is multi-purpose in that all the parts of the plant can be consumed thus minimizing food wastage and also the plant can stay long on the shelf thus has the potential to act as a food security crop. From the survey, it was observed that mostly elderly people above 46 years were involved in pumpkin cultivation; youths were less involved and pumpkin cultivation is mainly practiced on a small scale. The youths need to be educated and encouraged to get involved in pumpkin cultivation since it can reduce poverty levels, food insecurity and malnutrition. Key words: Agro-ecological zone, local knowledge, medicinal value, nutritional value, pumpkin, variety.

Rhizosphere yeast Torulaspora globosa with plant growth promotion traits and improvement of the development of tomato seedlings under greenhouse conditions

Abstract: Yeasts are an interesting group of microorganisms, which occur naturally in soil and on plant surfaces. Few studies have analysed their potential as plant growth promoters. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate the indole acetic acid (IAA) production and phosphate solubilization by the yeasts Torulaspora globosa (CCA5S51 and CCA5S55), Meyerozyma guilliermondii (CCA3C98), and Rhodotorula mucilaginosa (CCA2F32), and the influence of T. globosa (CCA5S55) in the development of tomato seedlings. The results showed that T. globosa strains present both plant growth promotion traits (IAA production and phosphate solubilization). The strains of T. globosa (5S51 and 5S55) showed high IAA production (641 and 669 µg.ml-1, respectively) after 48 h of incubation, while Rh. mucilaginosa produced 406 µg.ml-1 of IAA after 120 h. The strains CCA5S55 and CCA5S51 could also solubilize 47 and 35% of tricalcium phosphate in the medium, respectively, after 12 days of incubation; whereas M. guilliermondii (CCA3C98) solubilized only 10% of the tricalcium phosphate after 12 days. The inoculation of tomato seedlings with T. globosa stimulates the plant growth; root height was statistically superior when the higher cell concentration was inoculated. The root dry weight was enhanced with addition of glucose and tryptophan. The conclusion is the yeast species T. globosa is able to produce IAA in the presence of tryptophan and also solubilize phosphate in vitro. The inoculation of tomato seedlings promoted its development. The cell concentration and the addition of glucose and tryptophan must be evaluated in details to attain optimized yields. Key words: indole acetic acid (IAA) production, phosphate solubilisation, yeast as plant growth promoter.

Evaluation of dry matter yield, yield components and nutritive value of selected alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) cultivars grown under Lowland Raya Valley, Northern Ethiopia

Abstract: The experiment was conducted at Raya Azebo district, which is located in Southern Tigray, North Ethiopia, with the objective to investigate the highest dry matter yield and herbage nutritive value among the selected alfalfa cultivars. The experiment was conducted by randomized complete block design with four replications and five cultivars. The experimental cultivars were FG-10-09 (F), FG-9-09 (F), Magna-801-FG (F), Magna-788 and Hairy Peruvian. Harvesting cutting intervals was taken at an average of 57.78±4.78 days of mid flowering at irrigation land. A total of 4 cutting cycles were taken from January 2016 to August 2016. The result of the study showed that dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD) was comparable across the five cultivars. Stand height was significant different (P 0.05). Cutting cycle significantly affected stand height, DM yield and LTSR. Plant height and DM yield were significantly different (P<0.001) among the cultivars across the cutting cycle. Cutting cycles 2, 3 and 4 had the highest stand height and DM yield as compared to cutting cycle 1 (P<0.001). But, cutting cycles 2 and 1 were significantly higher in LTSR as compared to 3 and 4 (P<0.001). Therefore, it can be conclude that all the cultivars evaluated had not shown significant difference in DMY and nutritive content, but Hairy Peruvian had relatively good DM yield and higher stand height, as a result, it is good to promote Hairy Peruvian cultivar for further demonstration and seed production. Key words: Alfalfa, dry matter yield, nutritive content, cutting cycle, leaf to stem ratio.

Weed flora survey in field crops of Northwestern Ethiopia

Abstract: A survey was conducted in different field crops of six districts (Chilga, Gondarzuria, Metema, Takussa, Dabat and Dembia) in Northwestern Ethiopia within 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons. The objective of the study was to identify the most important weed species and to determine their frequency, density and uniformity at different altitudes. A quantitative and qualitative method was employed for the enumeration and identification of weed species. Quadrats were laid along transects and individual weed species in each quadrat was identified and counted. Frequency, uniformity, similarity index and relative abundance were used to determine the weed community structure. A total of 76 weed species belonging to 65 genera within 27 families were identified across different field crops. The most dominant families, based on the family dominance index (FDI), were Asteraceae, Poaceae, and Fabaceae with 78.97, 63.76, and 20.72 FDI, respectively. The most frequent, abundant and dominant weed species were Digitaria abyssinica (Hochst. Ex A. Rich), Cyperus rotundus L. and Cynodon dactylon L. The average values for frequency and dominance of weed species in arable fields ranged between 49.34 to 59.87% and 3 to 3.69%, respectively. Results obtained from this study would be useful in creating a weed management programme and making inform decision on choice of herbicides and directing research toward new or improved weed control measures. Key words: Altitude, density, district, dominance, family, frequency, species.

Growth and Yield Performance of Selected Upland and Lowland Rainfed Rice Grown in Farmers and Researchers Managed Fields at Ifakara, Tanzania.

Abstract: Bridging the yield gaps is of major concern to rice breeders and agronomists under rainfed rice cultivation. The yield performance of lowland and upland rainfed rice varieties was investigated in farmers’ and researchers’ field conditions at four locations in Ifakara. Selected agronomic practices namely; recommended fertilizer (80 kgN/ha), spacing of 20 cm × 20 cm, weed free fields and high yielding varieties of TXD306, Komboka and Tai for lowland rainfed, and NERICA1, NERICA2 and NERICA4 for upland rainfed rice. Moreover, farmer selected varieties Supa India and WahiPesa were used as the local control in this research. The study revealed that yield performance of lowland rainfed rice varieties and in farmers’ fields ranged between 2.9 and 6.9 t ha-1, while in the upland rainfed rice the yield ranged between 2.5 and 5.4 t ha-1. This was similar to yield that was obtained from the researchers’ fields which ranged between 2.4 and 8.5 t ha-1 in lowland and between 1.8 and 4.8 t ha-1 in upland fields. The yield gap analysis revealed that the gap of between 35 and 60% previously reported in lowland rice was narrowed to 0 to 12.1%, while in the upland rice from 24.5 to 28.6% previously reported to 0% and excess yield over the potential yields and yields previously reported by farmers. The performance of all improved rice varieties at farmers and researchers’ field were significantly higher compared to the local check varieties Supa India and WahiPesa. It was concluded that, providing farmers with selected good agronomic practices and supervision of farmers in field management activities enhanced rice productivity under farmers’ conditions and narrowed or bridged the yield gaps that existed. Key words: Upland rice, good agronomic practices (GAPs), lowland rice, productivity, yield gaps.

Socioeconomic and ecological consequences of Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.) in Boset Woreda, Ethiopia

Abstract: Parthenium weed (Parthenium hysterophorus L.), an invasive alien species, has been spreading at alarming rate in Ethiopia, causing biodiversity degradation, yield losses in field and horticultural crops, health problems to human beings and livestock. A study on the socioeconomic and ecological impacts of P. hysterophorus was conducted in five Kebeles (lowest administrative division) of Boset Woreda (District), Ethiopia. Data was collected using Ecological Survey, Semi Structured Interviews, Focus Group Discussion, and Field Observations. 200 quadrats were employed where every plant species found in each quadrat were counted, recorded and identified. Data on informant’s perception about the first appearance, infestation levels, agents of dispersal, impact, and cultural management of the Parthenium weed were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Shannon Diversity Index (H′), Species Richness, Evenness, and Jaccard’s Similarity Index were executed to evaluate Parthenium’s effect on species diversity of the weed flora. 78 Herbaceous plants belonging to 59 genera and 21 families were collected. Poaceae (28.2%) and Asteraceae (16.7%) were the dominant families of weeds observed in the study Kebeles. Digalu and Merko Kebeles had high infestation of P. hysterophorus represented by high distribution, abundance, and dominance of the weed, but with corresponding low Richness, H′, and evenness of herbaceous plants. Species Richness of herbaceous flora and abundance of Parthenium weed reveled significant negative association (P < 0.01; R2 = 0.93). Most of the informants believed that Parthenium affected crop and livestock production as well as human health. Farmers employed hand weeding, plowing, and manual clearing to manage the weed. For effective use of the weed, Integrated Weed Management approaches are required to check the spread and reduce the adverse impacts. Key words: Abundance, distribution, diversity, Ethiopia, Herbaceous Vegetation, Parthenium hysterophorus, Perception, socioeconomic impacts.

Evaluation of improved potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) varieties for some quality attributes at Shebench Woreda of Bench-Maji Zone, Southwestern Ethiopia

Abstract: In Ethiopia, potato sub-sector is expanding, with more value added products, such as potato chips, mainly due to increasing demands associated with growth of population and urbanization. Processing industry is very dependent on the quality parameters of tuber to satisfy the increasing demand of customers. Thus, this experiment was conducted with the objective to evaluate the quality of some improved potato varieties at Shebench district of Bench-Maji Zone. The study comprised of nine improved potato varieties laid out in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The tuber size distribution and proximate quality data were collected and analyzed by using SAS Version 9.2 statistical software. The results of the study revealed that all of the variables considered were significantly (P<0.01) affected by varieties except pH. Accordingly, considering tuber size distribution, the highest percentage of medium tuber was observed for Gudanie (77.4) followed by Belete (72.18). Whereas the highest percentage of large tuber was observed for variety Belete (17.35) followed by Shenkola (14.03). On the other hand, the least percentage of small tuber size was observed for variety Belete (10.47) followed by Gudanie (13.59). With regard to physicochemical qualities, the highest value of dry mater content (21.67%), specific gravity (1.08) and starch content (14.69%) were observed for Gudanie variety whereas Degemegn (3.28%) and Gudanie (3.27%) varieties showed the highest protein contents. Therefore, considering majority of the tested marketable and processing quality attributes, variety Gudanie can be considered as superior and recommended for the study area. In addition to this, growers in the study area can also use variety Belete for its good marketable tubers and varieties Gera, Gorebela and Chala for their acceptable processing quality. Key words: Potato, variety, quality, gudanie.

Effects of NPK and plant tea manure (Tithonia diversifolia) on growth rate of amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.) in soilless growing media

Abstract: Many countries are running short of agricultural land. Even where land appears to be available, soil fertility, water availability as well as nutrient mining still remains a challenge yet at the same time the world’s demand for food is rapidly increasing. Millions of square meters of soil are mined each year for use in vegetable nurseries and in backyard gardens in addition to excessive use of inorganic fertilizers. There are however a number of soilless growth media and organic sources of plant nutrients that could be used to address this problem. This study investigated the effects of application of NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potassium) and plant tea (Tithonia diversifolia) manure on selected soilless growing media on growth rate of Amaranthus cruentus L. This was to determine their suitability as an alternative growing media. A split plot design was used and the experiments carried out for two seasons. The soilless growing media investigated were: charcoal dust, saw dust, dry coffee husks, and mixture of charcoal and saw dust (1:1), saw dust and coffee husks (1:1), charcoal dust and coffee husks (4:1) and a compound mixture of charcoal dust, sawdust and coffee husks (2:2:1). The growing media were randomized in the three split blocks with eight pots each. Growth rates in terms of shoot height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, stem girth and root length were measured for two seasons. Results indicated that all the growth media could support amaranth growth. However, a mixture of charcoal dust and dry coffee husk (4:1 respectively) with application of plant tea manure significantly affected the growth rate of A. cruentus (p<0.05). Mixture of charcoal dust and dry coffee husk (4:1 respectively) with application of either NPK or plant tea manure could be used as the best alternative growth media. Soilless growth media that constituted of charcoal dust and coffee husks could be explored for amaranth production in home kitchen gardens in rural areas and backyard gardens in urban areas. Key words: Soil, soilless growing media, plant nutrients, amaranth.

Determinants of the extent of adoption of maize production technologies in Northern Ghana

Abstract: In spite of substantial investments in developing and disseminating improved maize production technologies by successive governments and several development partners, technology adoption in Ghana remains low. The purpose of this study was to identify the factors that influence the extent of adoption of improved maize production technologies among farmers in northern Ghana. A Tobit regression model was used to analyse the determinants of the extent of technology adoption. Results of the study revealed that formal education, farming experience, extension contact, access to credit, and membership of a farmer-based organisation are significant determinants of the extent of adoption of all three technologies considered. Moreover, sex of household head did not influence the extent of adoption of improved seeds but was rather significant in the case of fertiliser application and row planting. The study recommends that projects/programmes and policies related to the introduction and dissemination of improved maize production technologies in northern Ghana should draw lessons from studies like this to ensure improved technology uptake. Key words: Adoption, improved technologies, maize, Tobit regression.

Indigenous rhizobia strains: The silver bullet for enhanced biological nitrogen fixation and soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr. ) yield under different soil conditions in South Kivu province, Democratic Republic of Congo

Abstract: Soybean is an important crop in the Democratic Republic of Congo, a country faced with high levels of war induced malnutrition but its productivity is limited by poor soil fertility coupled with low access to nitrogen mineral fertilizers. Commercial rhizobia strains introduced in 2010 failed to adapt and increase soybeans yields at desired level. We studied the performance of six indigenous rhizobia strains in enhancing soybean productivity compared to two commercial strains USDA110 and SEMIA5019. The study was carried out in the greenhouse and field of Kalambo station of International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), D. R. Congo during 2016/2017 cropping season. The treatments included: (1) N-, control without inoculation and N-fertilizer; (2) N+, non-inoculated control with 80 kg of N ha−1; and inoculated with (3) commercial strain Bradyrhizobium diazoefficiens USDA110; (4) commercial strain Bradyrhizobium elkanii SEMIA5019; (5) local strains Bradyrhizobium japonicum NAC17; (6) NAC22; (7) NAC37, (8) NAC42 (9) NAC 46 and (10) NAC78. Greenhouse and field experiments were laid out as completely randomized design and randomized complete block design respectively. The best inoculation treatments across all experiments were the indigenous strains NAC46 and NAC17 which nodulated equally or better than the commercial strain USDA 110. In the field NAC46 and NAC17 increased soybean grain yield from 2.4 to 3.3 t ha-1 and 3.4 t ha-1; indicating the increase of 68.7 and 70.8% respectively, over the commercial strain USDA110. The results demonstrated that indigenous rhizobia NAC46 and NAC17 would thus be the silver bullet to enhanced BNF and soybean yields in South Kivu province of Democratic Republic of Congo. Key words: Inoculation, local rhizobia; soil fertility, USDA110.

Comparison of proximate, mineral and phytochemical composition of enset (Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman) landraces used for a different purpose

Abstract: Enset (Ensete ventricosum (Welw.) Cheesman) is one of the oldest cultivated food security crops in Ethiopia. There are a number of enset landraces used for traditional medicine. These landraces are believed to have better minerals and phytochemical compositions, which are not proved scientifically. The objective of this study was to compare the proximate, mineral and phytochemical compositions of corms of enset landraces used for treating bones illness traditionally, and two other landraces having another use value. Laboratory analysis was made by following standard methods, and the data determined were analyzed using SAS statistical software. Enset landraces, Kibnar and Guarye showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher protein content (4.74 and 4.06%), while Astara and Guarye were superior in phosphorus content (127.41 and 116.38 m g-2) respectively. Similarly, the highest zinc and tannin contents (8.52 and 153.94 m g-2) were obtained from Astara and Kibnar landraces respectively. On the other hand, Amerat landrace showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher crude fibre content. The three landraces used for traditional medicine showed better performances in protein, phosphorus, zinc and tannin contents than the other two landraces. Key words: Ensete ventricosum, enset, landrace, corm, proximate composition, mineral, phytochemical.

Virulence and characterization of isolates of potato bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum (Smith) in Rwanda

Abstract: Bacterial wilt (Ralstonia solanacearum) is one of the major potato diseases in Rwanda. An in vitro study was carried out to identify and characterize the pathogen isolated from three potato cultivars (Kinigi, Kirundo and Gikungu) in Rwanda. This was achieved by cultural and morphological tests on triphenyl tetrazolium chloride (TTC) and casamino peptone glucose (CPG) agar as well as biochemical tests through Gram staining and biovar test. An in vivo experiment was also performed to assess the pathogenicity of those isolates on potatoes. All isolates showed typical morphological traits of virulent R. solanacearum on TTC and CPG media. The test isolates were Gram-negative bacteria. Biovar test confirmed that all the isolates belonged to race 1 biovar 3 of the pathogen. Furthermore, the highest disease severity (DS=100%) and disease incidence (DI=100%) were observed in Gikungu isolate followed by Kinigi (DS=97.33% and DI=98.25) and Kirundo (DS=94.67% and DI=92.61%). From this study, all three isolates were typical R. solanaceraum belonging to race 1 biovar 3 and were all pathogenic to potato plants. Gikungu and Kinigi isolates were highly virulent than Kirundo isolate. Therefore, Gikungu or Kinigi isolates can be used for further studies in plant protection in management of the disease. Key words: Biovar test, Gram-negative, Gram-positive, pathogenicity test.

Effect of pesticides on Exopolysaccharide (EPS) production, antibiotic sensitivity and phosphate solubilization by Rhizobial isolates from Sesbania bispinosa in Bangladesh

Abstract: Rhizobium spp. retains a symbiotic relationship with leguminous plants including Sesbania bispinosa by fixing N2 through nodule formation. Several researches suggest that Exopolysaccharides (EPSs) are required for nodule formation. Rhizobial growth parameters as well as the EPS production are affected by the presence of pesticides. The present investigation was performed using three different pesticides which were Imitaf 20SL (Insecticide), Tafgor 40EC (Insecticide) and Tilt 250EC (Fungicide). Production of EPS was exceptionally increasing with the escalating concentrations of pesticides. The effects of pesticides were also observed on the antibiotic resistance of these organisms. Some gained resistance against Kanamycin while some got more sensitive than before. Detection of nodC gene and nifH gene ensured the fact that they are the residents of rhizobia bacteria. This study uncovers the fact that extensive use of pesticides may cause an unfavourable environment for survival of rhizobia and a decrease in EPS production resulting in poor N2 fixation and thus affecting the whole agricultural economy of a country. Key words: Pesticides, Rhizobia, exopolysaccharide, symbiosis, Sesbania bispinosa, antibiotics.

Assessment of pre and post-harvest management practices on coffee (Coffea arabica L.) quality determining factors in Gedeo zone, Southern Ethiopia

Abstract: In Gedeo zone, coffee quality is declining from time to time due to several improper pre and post-harvest management practices Therefore, this study was designed with the objective of assessing impact of pre and post-harvest management practices on Coffea arabica L quality determining factors in Gedeo zone, Southern Ethiopia Totally, 90 household respondents were used from three Woredas and selected purposively Finally, quantitative data was analyzed by employing SPSS (version 20) In pre harvesting practices, the result indicated that most of the respondents owned old coffee trees (>20 years), prune their tree frequently within one year interval and observed various diseases on their coffee tree According to the survey result, majority of farmers use shade trees, which is the most common cropping practiced by coffee producing farmers in the study area, and majority of the farmers use dry method of coffee processing Descriptive statistics of the field survey revealed that majority responded the provision of support and training from the respective Agricultural research and Development offices On the contrary, the coffee farming family suffered from shortage of money as well as time at harvesting stage of coffee On the side of traders, they received extension services in maintaining coffee quality in particular Most of the traders in the study area in order to buy and sell coffee, did not get advises from market advisers In general, most management practices in addition to trading methods in the study area have problems in maintaining coffee quality in the zone Key words: Coffea arabica L, coffee quality, pre-harvest, post-harvest, Gedeo zone

Light effects on growth and essential oil quantity and constituents in some Apiaceae plants

Abstract: The Apiaceae family known for vegetable crops rich in essential oils, includes numerous genera of high medicinal and economic value. This study investigates the effects of red and far-red light treatments through the dark period (night-break), on the growth characteristics, essential oil quantity and composition, in Coriandrum sativum L., Anethum graveolens L., and Petroselinum crispum. Treatments began 20 days after sowing, with exposure to red or far-red light for 4 h, nightly, from 10 pm to 2 am. Control plants had no treatment. The plants shoots were harvested after 30 days of treatment. The fresh and dry weight, height, petiole length, internode length, leaf number, leaf area, and total chlorophyll of plant samples were measured. Essential oils were evaluated and then analyzed using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The results showed that the red and far-red light led to non-significant increase in fresh and dry weight, plant height, petiole length, leaf number, leaf area, essential oil content, and concentration of individual oil components, while the internode length and total chlorophyll showed a significant increase in all treated plants. Therefore, the controlled use of red light and far-red light may be useful for initiating a response in plants, and enhancing their nutritional value. Key words: Apiaceae, light, night-break, essential oil constituents.