Showing papers in "Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries in 2014"
TL;DR: In this article, the effects of different land uses on soil fertility status in the Nitisols of Wujiraba watershed were investigated and the results revealed that soil fertility declines as land use changed from forest to grazing and cultivated lands.
Abstract: In Ethiopian highlands, land use changes, mainly, from natural vegetation to cultivated lands brought about rapid nutrient depletion. Intensive and continuous cultivation of land without proper management resulted in decline in soil physical, chemical and biological properties which aggravate crop yield reduction and food shortage. The present study, therefore, is designed to investigate the effects of different land uses on soil fertility status in the Nitisols of Wujiraba watershed. Twenty seven soil samples were collected randomly depth wise (0 - 15, 15- 30 and 30 - 45 cm) from the cultivated, forest and grazing lands. Data were analyzed using the two ways ANOVA in RCBD with three replications. Land use and soil depth showed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) effect on soil physicochemical properties. The highest f (57.8%), OC (4.6%), total N (0.28%), available S (11.1 ppm), CEC (42.2 cmol+ kg-1), exchangeable bases (Ca (22.2), K (0.76) and Na (0.58 cmol+ kg-1)) and available micronutrients ( Fe (14.2), Mn (24.1) and Zn (2.9 ppm)) were recorded on the surface layer of the forest land while lowest pH/KCl(5.03) and highest available P (5.5 ppm) on the surface layer of cultivated land. The results revealed that soil fertility declines as land use changed from forest to grazing and cultivated lands. Hence, it is possible to infer that continuous and intensive cultivation depletes plant nutrients greatly which urge to take measures for maintaining its fertility status of the cultivated soils in the study area.
49 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) on yield, yield components, nutrients uptake and use efficiencies, protein content of bread wheat, residual soil nitrogen and phosphorus availability and economic return of fertilizer application.
Abstract: On-farm field experiments were conducted to assess the effects of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) on yield, yield components, nutrients uptake and use efficiencies, protein content of bread wheat, residual soil nitrogen and phosphorus availability and economic return of fertilizer application. The locations of the experiments were in two nearby farmers' field at Hawzen district, Northern Ethiopia. Factorial combinations of five N levels (0, 46, 69, 92 and 138 kg N/ha) and four levels of P (0, 46, 69 and 92 kg P2O5/ha) were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Experimental Field 1 was relatively better in its soil fertility than experimental Field 2 especially in its phosphorus availability and cation exchange capacity (CEC). However, both fields were low in their total soil nitrogen content. Grain yield of wheat significantly increased by 46% and 15% in Field 1 and Field 2, respectively at nitrogen application rate of 46 kg N/ha than the control. Nitrogen fertilization increased straw yield significantly only in experimental Field 1. Phosphorus application at a rate of 46 kg P2O5/ha increased significantly grain and straw yields by 38 % and 46 %, respectively in Field 2 than control. It is also economical to apply phosphorus at this rate for such farmers’ field because the grain yield marginal rate of return was 179 %. Consistent results were observed on wheat nutrient uptakes and nutrient use efficiencies. Grain and straw yields of wheat were not significantly affected by the main effect of phosphorus application in Field 1. These results are consistent with the soil analysis result before planting where the soil phosphorus was found to be low in Field 1 and very low in Field 2. Previous management by the farmers may have influenced the soil fertility status. There were no interaction effects of nitrogen and phosphorus to affect wheat productivity and nutrient utilization in both fields. Future approach to soil fertility management should consider the past management history and should also be site specific based on soil fertility assessment. As a result, a combined application of 46 kg N/ha and 46 kg P2O5/ha are recommended to achieve sustainable bread wheat production on the sandy soils of Hawzen district. But in fields with higher initial soil phosphorus level, there is no need of applying phosphate fertilizer.
47 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors studied the relationship between P adsorption capacity and some properties of five different soil types (Fluvisols, Cambisols, Vertisols and Arenosols) of Tigray Region, northern Ethiopia were studied during the main cropping season in 2012.
Abstract: Phosphorus (P) adsorption capacity and its relationship with some properties of five different soil types (Fluvisols, Cambisols, Vertisols, Arenosols and Nitosols) of Tigray Region, northern Ethiopia were studied during the main cropping season in 2012. Besides, fractionation of the total soil P in to Ca-P, Fe-P and Al-P was carried out and their relationships with P adsorption characteristics of the soil type under study were also studied. Adsorption data for the different soil types were obtained by equilibrating the respective soil samples for 24 hours at room temperature with 25 ml of 0.01 M CaCl2, containing 0, 60, 120, 180, 240, 300, 360, 420, 480 and 540 mg kg-1 of applied external P as KH2PO4. The results of this study showed that Ca-P was highest followed by Fe-P in all the soils except in the Arenosols. Testing the Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms both showed well fitted with the correlation coefficients (r) that ranged from 0.951 to 0.999 in all the soils. Comparing the two adsorption models, the Freundlich model was slightly better in Vertisols, Arenosols and Nitosols while the Langmuir model was better in the Fluvisols and Cambisols in predicting P adsorption. The adsorption maximum (b) obtained from the Langmuir isotherm ranged from 296.6 mg P kg-1 soil in Fluvisols to 820.4 mg P kg-1 soil in Vertisols. The constant related to bonding energy calculated from the Langmuir adsorption model varied from 0.0151 to 0.0447 L mg-1. The Freundlich adsorption parameters also ranged from 7.28 to 30.15 mg kg-1 for the Freundlich isotherm constant (Kf) and from 0.4874 to 1.012 for slope of the Freundlich isotherm (1/n). Among the soil properties (CaCO3, CEC, organic matter, EC, pH, and sand, silt, and clay contents), clay content, CEC and CaCO3 were positively correlated with the Langmuir adsorption maximum. The adsorption maximum significantly (P ≤ 0.05) correlated (r = -0.902 but decreased with increasing sand content. The constant (Kf) positively and significantly (P ≤ 0.05) correlated (r = 0.953) with EC of the soil. The remaining soil properties studied were not significantly correlated with the adsorption parameters.
32 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the results showed that Isocyanate resin was the best resin for resulting of physical and mechanical properties of particleboard made from sorghum bagasse, which was used for particleboard manufacturing.
Abstract: Sorghum bicolor L Monech part Numbu as potential materials for particleboard manufacturing due to its cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin content similar with wood. The objective of the research was to determine the adhesive type, pressing temperature and time on physical and mechanical properties of particleboard made from sorghum bagasse. Size of board was (300 x 300 x 10) mm3, 0.7 g cm-3 targeted density, 10% resin content of urea formaldehyde (UF), and Phenol Formaldehyde (PF), 7% for Isocyanate, over all based on oven-dry particles. Furnish (mixture of particle and resin) was placed in hot press machine at temperature of 120 °C and 130 °C for UF, 170 °C and 180 °C for PF, 150 °C and 160 ° C for Isocyanate. Time of pressing in this experiment was 8 and 10 minutes. The result showed that Isocyanate resin was the best resin for resulting of physical and mechanical properties. Almost all those parameters had fulfill to the requirement of JIS A5908-2003.
24 citations
TL;DR: A field experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute to find out possible effects of alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI) on the yield, water use and water use efficiency (WUE) of Boro rice as discussed by the authors.
Abstract: A field experiment was conducted at the Bangladesh Rice Research Institute to find out possible effects of alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWDI) on the yield, water use and water use efficiency (WUE) of Boro rice. The experimental plots were laid out with 2 factors RCBD combining two modern varieties of rice viz., BRRI dhan29 and BRRI hybrid2, which received four irrigation treatments randomly and was replicated thrice. The treatments ranged from continuous submergence (T1) of the field to a number of delayed irrigations (T2, T3 and T4) denoting application of 5cm irrigation water when water level in the perforated PVC pipe fell 15, 20 and 25cm below ground level (G.L.), respectively. The study revealed that treatment T1 attributed by the highest total water use (122.2cm) and the lowest WUE (84.34kg/ha/cm) produced the lowest grain yield (4.71t/ha). Treatment T2, on the contrary, gave the highest yield (5.69 t/ha) and consequently the second highest WUE (85.55 kg/ha/cm) indicating quite a large water saving (15cm) compared to treatment T1. The yields in treatments T3 (5.45 t/ha) and T4 (5.27 t/ha) were significantly lower at 1% level of significance compared to that of treatment T1. Significant effect was found either for the treatment or for the varieties on the number of effective and total tillers hill -1, plant height, number of effective tillers hill-1, grain yield, straw yield, biological yield and harvest index.
23 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors identify the type of human- wildlife conflicts and wild mammals that cause the conflict, determine the extent of damage and to provide a better understanding of the causes of humanwildlife conflict in Wondo Genet district.
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to identify the type of human- wildlife conflicts and wild mammals that cause the conflict, determine the extent of damage and to provide a better understanding of the causes of human-wildlife conflict in Wondo Genet district. The study was carried out from December 2013 to June 2013. Four sample areas were selected to collect data on human-wildlife conflict; Gotu, Wosha Soyoma and Wethera Kechema villages and Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources. Data were collected using questionnaires, one to one interviews, observations and cross checking of crop loss using quadrants in selected crop lands, reviewing of literature, and was later analyzed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS). In order to achieve the objectives of the study, the target population comprised the households living in sampled areas, local administrators and staffs who lived within Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources. The study established that crop damages, livestock killing, human disruption and property destruction were some of the mostly reported damages. The results of the study further indicated that animal species most involved in HWC were warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), bush pig (Potamochoerus larvatus), vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), Olive baboon (Papio anubis), porcupine (Hystrix cristata), Giant mole rat (Tachyoryctes macrocephalus) and African civet (Civettictis civetta). They were involved mostly in crop raiding/ damage. Most raided crops were maize (Zea mays), sugar cane (Saccharum africanum) and Enset (Ensete ventricosum). Over 75% of the population of Wondo Genet district was affected by crop raiders. Therefore, conservation education is paramount, coherent land use plans should be emphasized to determine where certain crops can be grown.
22 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, the effects of integrated use of lime, manure and mineral P fertilizer on acid soils for wheat production and status of residual soil P were examined in a randomized complete block design with three replications.
Abstract: Soil acidity problem is one of the bottlenecks to improve crop production in high rainfall regions of Ethiopia in general and in Gozamin District of Amhara region in particular The aim of this study was to examine the effects of integrated use of lime, manure and mineral P fertilizer on acid soils for wheat production and status of residual soil P The treatments were factorial combinations of lime, manure and P fertilizer which were laid down in a randomized complete block design with three replications The field study was conducted on Dystric Nitisols in the 2011 and 2012 main cropping seasons at Enerata Kebele, Gozamin District Lime application hastened early germination while plant height was enhanced by interaction of lime and P Most parameters were significantly (p 005) level In these interactions lime rates were related in quadratic trend while manure and mineral P related linearly The combined application of 5 t manure and 22 t ha-1 lime increased grain and straw yield by 279% and 187%, respectively over the control treatment through economical analysis result 515 Eth birr ($28) ha-1 profit obtained due to additional yield obtained Although all treatments residual soil P were categorized under very low status, it has strong positive correlation (r2 = 079) with lime application The present study showed the combined application of 5 t manure and 22 t ha-1 lime was found to be economical feasible to improve wheat yield and yield components and residual soil P of acidic soils of the study area
19 citations
TL;DR: In this paper, a watershed integrated improved beekeeping is important as strong economic incentives that integrate watershed conservation with economic development from honey and beeswax production, which resulted in increased honey production simultaneously increased local initiative in watershed rehabilitation and protection.
Abstract: Beekeeping gives local people economic incentive for the retention of natural habitats, and is an ideal activity in watershed conservation program. A project was carried out in sagure watershed in Arsi Zone and Sasiga watershed in East Wollega Zone. The objective is to introduce improved beekeeping as the incentive for watersheds conservation. Data were collected through interviews, observation, bee forage assessment, improved beekeeping implementation and honey production. After training, beekeepers highly acquainted in improved beekeeping management and this resulted in increased honey production simultaneously increased local initiative in watershed rehabilitation and protection. Beekeepers maintained diverse honeybee floral resources designed to achieve maximum honey production and watershed rehabilitation. The study identified that watershed integrated improved beekeeping is important as a strong economic incentives that integrate watershed conservation with economic development from honey and beeswax production. Efforts of the government are highly required to organize landless and marginalized peoples by providing them with the necessary beekeeping technologies and inputs to ensure maximum honey production while promoting watershed rehabilitation and conservation.
18 citations
TL;DR: In this article, a survey was carried out to find out farmers perception on improved crop varieties from March to June 2012 in the Ashanti, Eastern, and Northern regions of Ghana, which revealed that farmers perceived the improved crop variety with particular reference to Maize (Zea maize), Cassava (Manihot esculentus) and Oil Palm (Elaies guineensis) as lacking some good characteristics of the landraces and also expensive to adopt.
Abstract: The survey was carried out to find out farmers perception on improved crop varieties from March to June 2012 in the Ashanti, Eastern, and Northern regions of Ghana. Adoption of farming technologies is very crucial to agricultural development. In Ghana, a greater percentage (70%) of the people is in the agricultural sector. Improvement in agriculture will have direct positive impact on the livelihood of the people. Farmer perception on agricultural technology influences their decision to adopt the technology or not. The study revealed that farmers perceived the improved crop varieties with particular reference to Maize (Zea maize), Cassava (Manihot esculentus) and Oil Palm (Elaies guineensis) as lacking some good characteristics of the landraces and also expensive to adopt. The need for farmers to be actively involved in the development of improved crop varieties was also highlighted. The study recommends that all stakeholders (Plant Breeders, Agronomists, Post Harvest Technologists, Ministry of Food and Agriculture (MOFA) and Farmers) should be actively involved in the development of farming technologies.
16 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors study how farmers in the remote Cabecar communities in southeastern Costa Rica use soil knowledge to allocate and manage crops and explore how to combine local and scientific knowledge to achieve wider adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques.
Abstract: Smallholder farmers have developed knowledge about soil and crop management through long-term, on-farm observations. Yet, food insecurity and land degradation continue to threaten livelihoods, globally. Part of the solution lies in linking local and scientific knowledge to develop improved agricultural strategies. We argue that incorporating farmer knowledge in the design and/or technology transfer processes of land management and restoration projects will improve the likelihood of success. The objectives of this study were to understand how farmers in the remote Cabecar communities in southeastern Costa Rica use soil knowledge to allocate and manage crops and to explore how to combine local and scientific knowledge to achieve wider adoption of sustainable agricultural techniques. Cabecar farmers in the foothills of the Talamanca Mountains practice both no-input subsistence and cash-crop farming. They cultivate both annual and perennial crops on their multi-parceled farms. Twenty-three stratified random heads of households were selected and interviewed. A variety of participatory methods were used including, participant observation (1.5 years), semi-structured interviews, farm mapping exercises, farm-transect walks and a participatory community workshop. Results indicate that farmers identified three distinct soil types using primarily soil color, texture and landscape position. Most interestingly, farmers’ understanding of soil properties was tied directly to site suitability for specific crops. While farmers identified limitations of certain soil types’ capacity to sustain a particular crop, farmers did not embark on restoration efforts or employ nutrient management techniques to improve the productivity of the soil. Furthermore, farmers had limited knowledge on processes of soil development and nutrient cycling. Instead of amending the soils to increase productivity, farmers allocated crops according to existing perceived suitability of the soil. These insights illustrate the barriers to farmer’s adoption of new agricultural strategies. These data and experiences will be used to guide future agricultural research in the region, specifically projects that promote the restoration of unproductive soils by providing alternatives to burning and incorporating organic amendments.
16 citations
TL;DR: In this article, the authors determined the distribution of peat fires, including hotspot characteristic, fire period and spatial distribution according to biophysical factors and human activities, and concluded that peatland conservation area and unmanaged land in Kapuas District were in vulnerable condition of the fire.
Abstract: Peatland fires occur almost every year in Indonesia and their impact is harmful to human life and the environment. The objective of this study was to determine the distribution of peat fires, including hotspot characteristic, fire period and spatial distribution according to biophysical factors and human activities. Characteristics of peatland fires were determined through spatial analysis between hotspots and rainfall and factors affected peatland fires such as land cover, distance from the river, distance from road, spatial plan and peat thickness. The study found that strong indication of peat fires in Kapuas is indicated by the hotspot with a confidence value of more than 50%. August to October is the hotspot increasing time in Kapuas because the rainfall is low. The densest hotspots are generally found in swamp shrubs, close to the river, close to the roads, in the very deep peat, with a spatial planning of peatland conservation area. We concluded that peatland conservation area and unmanaged land in Kapuas District were in vulnerable condition of the fire. We suggest to the government to improve unmanaged land utilization and protect peatland conservation area in Kapuas District.
TL;DR: It was concluded that the species is an herbivorous feeding mainly on macrophytes, detritus and phytoplankton, and the contribution of animal origin food was low.
Abstract: Food and feeding habits of T. zillii were studied from 572 fish samples collected from April to May 2011 (dry season) and July to August 2011 (wet season) from Lake Ziway. Stomach content analysis was conducted using frequency of occurrence and volumetric methods of analyses. Macrophytes, detritus and phytoplankton were the dominant food categories occurring in 94.9%, 94.2% and 82.5% of the total stomachs examined and constituting 45.2%, 29.4% and 16.8% of the total volume, respectively. The contributions of insets, nematodes, zooplankton and ostracods were relatively low. Macrophytes (50.4%), phytoplankton (21.8%) and detritus (18.5%) constituted the bulk of the food volume during the dry season. In the wet season detritus (40.8%), macrophytes (37.8%), phytoplankton (12.5%) and insects (6.5%) contributed the bulk of the food categories consumed. Phytoplankton, detritus and insects were important food categories of juveniles (5.0-9.9 cm TL) whereas macrophytes, detritus and phytoplankton were important food categories of adults. The importance of phytoplankton, detritus and insects declined with size of fish whereas the importance of macrophytes and nematodes increased with fish size. Based on the results of the stomach contents it was concluded that the species is an herbivorous feeding mainly on macrophytes, detritus and phytoplankton. The contribution of animal origin food was low.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors evaluated the contribution of improved beekeeping for income generation and sustainable watershed management in Galessa protected area, and showed that integration of intermediate beekeeping technology with conservation of watershed can enhance the income of household and encourage planting of bee forages which directly contributes for sustainable watershed managements.
Abstract: Beekeeping gives local people economic incentive for the preservation of natural habitats and is an ideal activity in watershed conservation program. The study was designed to assess and demonstrate the contribution of improved beekeeping for income generation and sustainable watershed management in Galessa protected area. For this purpose households were purposively selected based on their interest in beekeeping, experience in traditional beekeeping and proximity of residence to watershed areas. Training on beekeeping and integrations of beekeeping with watershed management were provided. Data of honey yield, bee plants, and annual income obtained from honey and field crops before and after improved beekeeping intervention were collected. Accordingly, the mean annual honey yield, income obtained from honey sales, bee forage planting practice and number of transitional hives owned by the beekeepers are significantly different between the sample households (P<0.05) before and after intermediate beekeeping intervention but the number of traditional hives owned was not significantly different between the household . The total honey yield has increased almost by two fold and the annual revenue increased by 6.5 folds. Therefore integration of intermediate beekeeping technology with conservation of watershed can enhance the income of household and encourages planting of bee forages which directly contributes for sustainable watershed managements. Thus demonstration and scaling up improved beekeeping technology should be promoted for sustainable watershed rehabilitation and to diversify the household income.
TL;DR: An experiment was conducted to evaluate the agronomic and economic performance of the patterns in the light soil of northwestern part of Bangladesh with 5 different cropping patterns including wheat and transplanted (T) Aman rice, and a non-wheat cropping pattern started from Rabi of 2008-09 to Kharif II of 2012.
Abstract: Among the winter (Rabi) crops, wheat is one of the most important temperature-sensitive crops and is the second most important grain crop after rice in Bangladesh. An experiment was conducted in research field of Wheat Research Centre, Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, Dinajpur, Bangladesh with 5 different cropping patterns including wheat and transplanted (T) Aman rice, and a non-wheat cropping pattern started from Rabi of 2008-09 to Kharif II of 2012 to evaluate the agronomic and economic performance of the patterns in the light soil of northwestern part of Bangladesh. Wheat-Jute-T.Aman Rice cropping pattern gave comparable gross margin with higher benefit-cost ratio (BCR) but need lower total variable cost. Lower gross return and gross margin were obtained from cropping pattern Wheat-T.Aus Rice-T.Aman Rice. Cropping pattern Wheat-Mungbean-T.Aman Rice produced higher gross return and gross margin than the cropping pattern Wheat-T.Aus Rice-T.Aman Rice. Cropping pattern Potato-Wheat-Maize-T.Aman Rice produced higher wheat equivalent yield in all the 4 years. Cropping pattern Wheat-T.Aus Rice-T.Aman Rice produced lower wheat equivalent yield than other cropping patterns and also induced acidity rapidly. Cropping pattern Wheat-Mungbean-T.Aman Rice needed lowest cost but gave economic benefit with comparable BCR.
TL;DR: A review of various research results from published and unpublished data over a long period of time in the area of beeswax production, chemical analysis, marketing and value chain studies in Ethiopia is presented in this article.
Abstract: Beeswax is one of the most valuable and oldest bee products to be used by mankind and still being used in the development of new products in various fields such as cosmetics, foods, pharmaceuticals, engineering and industry. Ethiopia has huge apicultural resources that made it the leading beeswax producer in Africa, and one of the important beeswax exporter to the world market. In Ethiopia apicultural research is being conducted in a coordinated manner under the national agricultural research system. Hence, a lot of information have been gathered on different aspects of the beekeeping. This work is a review of various research results from published and unpublished data over a long period of time in the area of beeswax production, chemical analysis, marketing and value chain studies in Ethiopia. Despite the country’s huge potential for production of high quality beeswax, only less than 10% of the beeswax produced is exported. The beeswax production and processing practices use traditional and inefficient techniques that leave significant amount of beeswax resource unutilized. The marketing channel for beeswax in the country is also entangled with challenges related to uneasy traceability and adulteration that are affecting both the local and international trade.
TL;DR: In this article, surface layer (0-15 cm) samples of soils with extreme acidity (pH 4.0-4.6) formed on Coastal Plain Sands were collected from four locations in southern Nigeria and grown to maize (SUWAN 1-SR-Y) in pots for two cycles of six weeks each to measure the direct and residual effects of applied fertilizer (90 kg N+ 36 kg P+ 60 kg K.ha-1), 2.5 MT.
Abstract: The highly weathered and leached soils formed on Coastal Plain Sands under excessive rainfall regime in southern Nigeria are Ultisols. The appropriate management practices with which to obtain high crop yields in these soils, characterized by high acidity, nutrient deficiencies and imbalances, should be developed. Surface layer (0-15 cm) samples of soils with extreme acidity (pH 4.0-4.6) formed on Coastal Plain Sands were collected from four locations in southern Nigeria and grown to maize (SUWAN 1-SR-Y) in pots for two cycles of six weeks each to measure the direct and residual effects of applied fertilizer (90 kg N+ 36 kg P+ 60 kg K.ha-1), 2.5 MT.ha-1 lime, 10 MT.ha-1 farm yard manure (FYM) compared to a control. The direct effect of FYM produced the highest dry matter yield while fertilizer and lime did not differ significantly from the control. The residual effects were significant in dry matter yield for FYM in all the soils and for lime in three soils. Lime and FYM increased soil pH and exchangeable bases, reduced iron, manganese and aluminium; fertilizer and FYM raised available P while only FYM increased soil organic matter contents. Application of lime, fertilizer and FYM in all possible combinations compared to the control in one soil showed that FYM + Fertilizer gave the highest maize dry matter yield, improved soil characteristics and would be the recommended nutrient management practice for these acid soils.
TL;DR: The study reveals the importance of algae, fish, insects and plant materials as food for fish in Lake Alau, and zooplanktons form important items in the diet of the species examined, and the need to control pollution into the lake to prevent eutrophication.
Abstract: This study was conducted on the examinations of the stomach contents of two commercially important fish species of Catfish and Tilapia fish (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) known as “Tarwada” and “Karfasa” in Hausa language, determined from Lake Alau, North – Eastern Nigeria, using frequency of occurrence and volumetric methods between June to December, 2013. Gill nets and Malian traps were used to catch the fish every fortnight. Three hundred and fifty (350) individual fish of each species obtained and their stomach contents examined. The results obtained expressed in mean percentage indicated that out of the three hundred and fifty (350) individual fish of each species examined, 121 (35%) fish had an empty stomach contents in Clarias gariepinus, and out of the 350 samples examined, 145 fish had an empty stomach content in Oreochromis niloticus representing 41%. The stomach contents of Clarias gariepinus consisted of animal and plant materials, planktons, (zooplanktons and phytoplankton) and others. Fish prey was the dominant animal material (51%) with mean contribution of 32% by volume, and plant material consisted of leaves and offal (6% by volume). The stomach content of Oreochromis niloticus consisted mainly of animal and plant materials, planktons and detritus. Algae represented by Chlorella, Volvox, Scenedesmus, Pediastrum, and Spirogyra species accounted for 66% by volume followed by detritus and mud with 20 %, zooplankton represented by Daphnia and Moina species represented the low food content by volume with 8 %. The study reveals the importance of algae, fish, insects and plant materials as food for fish in Lake Alau, and zooplanktons form important items in the diet of the species examined. Both species are omnivorous and occupy the same ecological niche; hence, there is the need to control pollution into the lake to prevent eutrophication.
TL;DR: In this article, the authors analyzed the productivity and technical efficiency of cassava production in Ardo-Kola and Gassol Local Government Areas of Taraba State, using a structured questionnaire covering 2010/2011 farming season.
Abstract: This study analyzed the productivity and technical efficiency of cassava production in Ardo-Kola and Gassol Local Government Areas of Taraba State. Data were collected from 115 respondents using a structured questionnaire covering 2010/2011 farming season. Inferential statistics were employed in the analysis of data collected. Maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) for all parameters of the stochastic frontier production function and the inefficiency model for the cassava farmers in the study area was employed in the analysis. The study reveals that, farm size is the most important factor of production having an elasticity coefficient of 0.492 indicating that, output of cassava production is inelastic. Indicating that, an increase of 5% in farm size used in production of cassava, all things being equal; there would be a corresponding increase in the total output by 4.92%. Similarly, herbicide has an elasticity coefficient of 0.315 and was statistically significant at 5 %. This implies that, an increase in the quantity of herbicide would increase the output by 3.15 percent. Hired labour has an elasticity efficiency of 0.783 and is positively related to the total output of cassava. A 5 percent increase in hired labour will bring about an increase in the level of output. Despites challenges faced by cassava farmers in the study area, the study concludes that, farmers involved in cassava production have more than average technical efficiency and this means there is opportunity to increase cassava production in the study area. Similarly, the cassava production was profitable in the area. The research recommended public private partnership (PPP) to sensitize and educate farmers to enable them benefit from the new innovations and technology that abound in the agricultural sector.
TL;DR: It is concluded that developing better performing plant species through use of irrigation and rain fed conditions will alleviate the shortage of bee forages and help in increasing honey production.
Abstract: Availability of adequate perennial and annual sources of nectar and pollen is the most limiting factor in the survival, abundance and distribution of honeybees. The study was therefore conducted to screen the best performing bee forages from eight plant species with a view to selecting for honey production for high and mid land agro-ecologies. The planting materials were Becium grandiflorum, Vicia sativa, Guizotia abyssinica, Echium plantaginium, Trifolium rupplianum, Brassica carinata, Sinaps alba and Fagophyrum esculentum. The species were evaluated based on germination rate, number of flower heads per plants, time to set flower, foraging intensity of honeybees and flowering length. Accordingly, Becium grandiflorum, Guizotia abyssinica, Brassica carinata, Fagophyrum esculentum and Trifolium rupplianum were good under rain fed condition while Sinaps alba was found to perform better under irrigation fed. On contrary, the study found that Echium plantaginium; Vicia sativa and Fagophyrum esculentum were performed better under both rain fed and irrigation conditions. Mean number of flower heads per 1m2 for all studied plant species were similar except Echium plantaginium which was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to the rest. Honeybees foraging intensity and time for different plant species were significantly different. From these investigations, it is concluded that developing better performing plant species through use of irrigation and rain fed conditions will alleviate the shortage of bee forages and help in increasing honey production.
TL;DR: In this paper, a multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 90 fish farmers across the State of Delta, Nigeria, to assess the livelihood and poverty status of fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria.
Abstract: Despite the potentials of Nigeria in fish production, domestic fish production has failed to meet the national demand, making Nigeria a net importer of fish. Hence, this study assessed the livelihood and poverty status of fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 90 fish farmers across the State. Data were elicited through questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and poverty gap indices measures. Respondents’ mean age was 42 years; with average household size of 5 people; 83% were literate; with 17 years of fishing experience. This indicates that fish farmers in the area were young, literate and experienced. Thus, they could withstand the drudgery and risk of the venture. It was observed that 42% of the farmers lived in rented apartments while 26% occupied their own apartments of single rooms (73%), with iron sheet roof (62%), floored with cement concrete (81%). The major source of water was borehole hand pump; with farmers using unauthorized refuse heaps and covered pit latrines. Farmers’ annual income averaged N137,500 (881.41 USD) which is below the annual minimum income of an average Nigerian. Poverty index was 0.867, resulting to a poverty gap index of 0.629, implying high poverty incidence. Major constraints identified were insufficient fund, fluctuation in market prices and fish spoilage. It is recommended that soft loans should be granted to fish farmers on time; canning and processing industries should be established in the area; adequately funded extension agents should be deployed to the study area.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compared the types and density of tree species in homegardens of inherited and settled lands in close proximity of Anuradhapura city, with subsistence farming activities.
Abstract: It was hypothesised that the land ownership with clear titles has an influence on incorporating perennial tree flora. Hence, this study compares the types and density of tree species in homegardens of inherited and settled lands in close proximity of Anuradhapura city, with subsistence farming activities. Mean harvestable tree density was 54.5 trees/ac in inherited lands compared to 40.3 trees/ac in settled lands. In spite of the general similarity in tree flora between the two categories of homegardens, certain tree species are more abundant in one than the other. Exotic timber tree flora represented approximately 30% of total tree population in settled compared to 16% in inherited. Exotic timber tree flora mainly dominated by Tectona grandis and Berrya cordifolia in settled lands concerning more economic returns. In inherited lands, multipurpose trees i.e. Artocarpus heterophyllus, Azadirachta indica and Mangifera indica were highly abaundanat concering diversity and food security. Cocos nucifera was the most abaundant tree specis in both categories accounting more than 40% abaundance. Tree species such as Tamarindus indica was restricted to inherited lands and Felicium decipiens and Swietenia macrophylla to the settled lands. It is advocated that the settled farmers should preserve more diversity among trees as inherited farmers, which enhance food and economic security under diminishing climatic suitability for crop production. Nonetheless, this study awaked an important entity for future carbon crediting programmes, which would be a win-win situation in forestry and farming aspects.
TL;DR: In this paper, the effect of different irrigation intervals 5,10 and 15 days combined with two exposure time of He-Ne laser rays (0 and 5 min.) on the growth, oil yield and fatty acids constituents of Ricinus communis were evaluated at greenhouse of National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt.
Abstract: Pot trail were carried out at greenhouse of National Research Centre, Dokki, Egypt, to evaluate the effect of different irrigation intervals 5,10 and 15 days combined with two exposure time of He-Ne laser rays (0 and 5 min.) on the growth, oil yield and fatty acids constituents of Ricinus communis. Plant height, Stem diameter, leaves number leaf area, fresh and dry of leaves weight, as well as relative water content and osmotic potential (atm) were decreased by prolonging irrigation intervals. Carbohydrates % also showed a negative response by extending irrigation intervals. Helium neon (He-Ne) laser rays improved Caster bean growth and decreased osmotic potential followed by increasing relative water content and help plants to complete its life cycle. Palmitic acid is substantial component of the saturated fatty acids, while ricinoleic unsaturated fatty acids is the major one. The highest increment in both ricinoleic and hexacenoic acids was recorded by prolonging irrigation interval up to 10 days.
TL;DR: In this paper, a two-stage sampling technique was used to select 130 sample households from six sample kebeles in Kombolcha Woreda to evaluate the major sources of risks in vegetable production, on the basis of farmers' perceptions.
Abstract: In Ethiopia, vegetable crops are produced in different agro-ecological zones through commercial as well as smallholder farmers both as a source of income and food. However, due to perishable nature and biological nature of production process, vegetables productions are risky investment activities. In this context, risk perceptions play a key role in the production and investment behaviour of farmers in vegetable production decisions. However, in Kombolcha Woreda, only limited attention has been paid to understand the producers’ risk perceptions in vegetable production. Therefore, in this study, analysis of the major sources of risks in vegetable production, on the basis of farmers’ perceptions, was conducted. For the study, a two-stage sampling technique was used to select 130 sample households from six sample kebeles. Primary data collected through structured questionnaire and secondary data sources were used. A Likert scale, based on farmers’ perception, was used to rank the various sources of vegetable production risks. The mean scores results, derived based on Likert scales, indicated that production and market risks were perceived to be the most important risk sources. Hence, price support mechanisms and inputs subsidy, education and training on formal risk management mechanisms (production contract, marketing contract, etc.); drought tolerant, and pest/disease resistant vegetable varieties and cultural and biological methods, and chemicals should be used to control such risks.
TL;DR: The cultivars Chovvarian and Orthadian exhibited comparatively lesser quantum of negative variation in chlorophyll content under salt stress indicating their potential to grow and perform moderately well even under higher levels of salinity.
Abstract: Photosynthetic efficiency of a crop species depends upon factors like leaf area, chlorophyll content, stomatal exposure, etc. The present study was an attempt to assess the impact of salt stress on the chlorophyll content of sevenpopular rice cultivars grown in one of the saline rice habitatsof Kerala state of India such as Kuthitru, Kuttusan, Orkazhama, Chovvarian, Orthadian, Ezhome-1 and Ezhome-2.The results showed general reduction in chlorophyll content in all the seven cultivars studied under salt stress. The cultivars Chovvarianand Orthadian exhibited comparatively lesser quantum of negative variation in chlorophyll content under salt stress indicating their potential to grow and perform moderately well even under higher levels of salinity.
TL;DR: In this paper, a field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of inorganic fertilizer (IF), poultry manure (PM) and their combinations on rice yield and possible residual effects.
Abstract: Nutrient management is critical in increasing and sustaining rice yield. A field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of inorganic fertilizer (IF), poultry manure (PM) and their combinations on rice yield and possible residual effects. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used and the trial was conducted on a Gleysol. In 2011 SPAD values for IF and PM/ IF combinations (except 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha) were significantly higher in the sixth week onwards than PM. Number of panicles/plant and number of panicles m2 were significantly higher for 90-60-60 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha and 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha than 6.0 and 4.0 t/ha PM resulting in significantly higher grain yield. Grain yield of IF was similar to grain yield of PM/IF combinations. In 2012 the residual effects showed a significantly higher SPAD value for the 6.0 t/ha PM. Also 6.0 t/ha PM, 4.0 t/ha PM and 4.0 t/ha PM + 30 kg N/ha had significantly high number of panicles/plant and number of panicles/m2 than IF. Residual effect of PM applied at 4.0 t/ha and above gave significantly higher grain yield than IF. Mean grain yield for the three years showed that 4.0 t/ha PM + 30 kg N/ha and 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha gave significantly higher yields than the other treatments. The results indicate that integrating IF and PM is a better option in increasing and sustaining rice production.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors conducted a study to reveal the existing situation of the aquatic biodiversity of the Beel Bakar along with identifying the past and present water management system, the socio economic aspect of the beel dependent fishermen and possible future steps.
Abstract: Being a riverine country, Bangladesh maintains a large volume of water by its different channels like river, canal, beel, haor, baor, lake and so on. Beel is one of the ancient types of water body in the context of Bangladesh. Among all the types of water bodies existing in Bangladesh, beel is obviously a fascinating one due to its biodiversity and ecological importance in local and national perspective as it contains and passes significant amount of water connecting with river channel which ultimately goes to the sea. The Beel Bakar is a small beel in the southern part of Jessore District of Bangladesh. This study initiated to reveal the existing situation of the aquatic biodiversity of the Beel Bakar along with identifying the past and present water management system, the socio economic aspect of the beel dependent fishermen and possible future steps. The study was carried out through mix group discussion, focus group discussion, key informants interview, direct observation and household survey. The study revealed that once this beel was rich in biodiversity and important for local fisheries. Though a considerable part of the beel and its floodplain is under gher culture, still there is scope to ensure protection and to enhance livelihoods of fisher community. In spite of the degradation of natural habitats of fishes, still 19 species of fishes were observed in the beel as well as some non fish organisms like snail, crab, mussel, frog, migratory and native birds. The study also found that excessive gher culture practice and possession of non fishermen over the water body are the main constrains of the beel. Most of the fishermen live in semi concrete house and vast majority of them have debt to bank or cooperatives. Experts and local fishermen both suggested ensuring the access of real fishermen in Beel Bakar and the Mukteswari River to improve their circumstances.
TL;DR: In this paper, the authors compared the soil chemical properties of oil palm plantations one-three years oil palm planted and mature oil palm that were previously a secondary tropical peat swamp forest.
Abstract: Large-scale land conversion of peat for agricultural purposes requires clearance, drainage, fertilizer application, and liming to increase the pH and boost microbial activity. The objective of this present study was to compare the soil chemical properties of oil palm plantation one-three years oil palm planted and mature oil palm that were previously a secondary tropical peat swamp forest. Soil samples were collected randomly at difference age’s oil palm plantation from a Young Oil Palm Plantation (YOPP) in one year period of time at same place and Mature Oil Palm Plantation (MOPP) another place from oil palm plantation in Batang Igan, Sibu Sarawak, Malaysia. Approach: Forty eight soil samples were taken using a peat soil auger at 0-15 cm depths in every area. The samples were air dried and then sieved to pass 2 mm sieve. Soil pH in water and KCl, soil CEC, Organic Matter (OM), Organic Carbon (OC), Total Nitrogen (TN), Total Phosphorous (TP), Total Potassium (TK), carbon to nitrogen ratio and carbon to phosphorous ratio were determined using standard procedures. Statistical analysis showed that CEC, TC and OM content were statistically similar. Results: The soil pHwater, TN and C/N ration shows highly significant for all difference age's oil palm plantation. Difference with pHKCl and TK content shows no significantly difference between YOPP 2 years and 3 years but both areas significantly higher with MOPP. For TP and C/P ratio content has no significant difference for YOPP (2 years) and MOPP but significantly difference with YOPP (3 years). Conclusion: Regardless of difference age's oil palm plantation, total carbon, organic matter and CEC was statistically similar to different ages of oil palm plantation, but soil acidity, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, C/N and C/P ratio was significantly higher between three areas weather YOPP (2 years), YOPP (3 years) and MOPP.
TL;DR: Result of the research showed that different heat unit causes diverse phenology of the zalacca’s components, which include the growth of midrib, the emergence of spatha, and the harvest time.
Abstract: Each cultivar of zalacca could adapt to elevation, which has close relationship with the plant tolerance to temperature. However, heat unit of zalacca cv. Gulapasir, which are required to reach definite phase if they are grown in Tabanan areas have not known yet. The main objective of the research was to study heat unit, phenology and fruit quality of zalacca cv. Gulapasir planted on different elevation in Tabanan-Bali. The research was designed using Randomized Completely Design (RCD), with one factor as dependent variable along with ten replications. The independent variable was the site altitude of three locations that includes Saribuana village (460 m asl), Pajahan village (570 m asl), and Batungsel village (700 m asl). The phenologic determination of zalacca is based on the heat unit, which is counted using equation [(T.max + T.min)/2]-T.base, in which T.max and T.min is daily mean maximum and minimum temperatures, respectively, and T.base is the basic temperature. The parameters measured were the emergence of midrib and spatha, the numbers of fruits per bunch, fruit weight, the harvest time, the thickness of the mesocarpium, total soluble solids (TSS), and total acid levels. Data was analyzed by analysis of variance, if the test of variance showed significant difference then it would be followed by LSD test in level 5%. Result of the research showed that different heat unit causes diverse phenology of the zalacca’s components, which include the growth of midrib, the emergence of spatha, and the harvest time. Ripe-consumed zalacca was planted in Saribuana(460 m asl) in 7.4 days earlier than zalacca planted in Batungsel, which was 4.2 days earlier than others that were planted in Pajahan. The zalacca cv. Gulapasir were planted at Pajahan (570 m asl) shows the higher quality of fruit such as thickness of the mesocarpium, edible portion, TSS/total acidity ratio, and numbers of fruit then the others two elevation.
TL;DR: The results indicate 10-15% inclusion of Delonix regia seed meal improved growth performance and nutrient utilization of Nile tilapia fingerlings.
Abstract: A feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of inclusion level of cooked Delonix regia seed meal (CDRM) in the practical diet of Oreochromis niloticus fingerlings through their growth performance and nutrient utilization for 56 days Four iso-nitrogenous and iso-lipidic experimental diets were formulated to contain 35% crude protein and 95% lipid, CDRM was included at different varying inclusion levels viz: 0, 10, 15 and 20 and were designated as D1 (0 % inclusion), D2 (10 % inclusion), D3 (15 % inclusion) and D4 (20 % inclusion) Each treatment was allocated to three tanks of twenty O niloticus per tank with initial mean weight of 118±010g There was no significant difference (P>005) in the survival rate of all the treatments, D2 has the highest value in percentage weight gain, specific growth rate, feed intake, protein efficiency and protein retention, while D4 (20% inclusion) had the lowest value in all the growth parameters and feed utilization measured However, there is no significant difference (P>005) between fish fed D3 (15% inclusion) and D1 (control: 0% inclusion) Proximate composition result revealed that increase in the inclusion level of cooked Delonix regia lead to an increase in carcass lipid content and a decrease in the moisture content of the fish fed experimental diet The results indicate 10-15% inclusion of Delonix regia seed meal improved growth performance and nutrient utilization of Nile tilapia fingerlings
TL;DR: In this paper, a cross-sectional survey conducted with four community categories, namely nomadic pastoralist, agropastoralists, villagers and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), from Addado, Buhodle and northern Galkaayo of central and northern part of Somalia; through questionnaire-based interviews, conclusively demonstrate that the challenges involve proper interventions for tree planting against desertification as well as for community empowerment through public education and formation of community based environmental associations to coordinate the overall environmental management activities and to raise public awareness.
Abstract: The international community has long recognized desertification as a significant global social, economic and environmental problem of concern with detrimental effects on the livelihoods of people in many countries world-wide. To explore this critique, this study examined local people’s views on the causes, effect and socio-economic impact of desertification and degradation to the community. The study involved a cross-sectional survey conducted with four community categories, namely nomadic pastoralist, agro-pastoralists, villagers and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), from Addado, Buhodle and northern Galkaayo of central and northern part of Somalia; through questionnaire-based interviews. Descriptive statistics attribute environmental changes to negative implications of human activities on the environment: the menace of which led to a decline in forage, current loss of biodiversity and the related changes in the environment, permanent migration, increased poverty and health problems. The startling results of this study conclusively demonstrate that the challenges involve proper interventions for tree planting against desertification as well as for community empowerment through public education and formation of community based environmental associations to coordinate the overall environmental management activities and to raise public awareness.