Showing papers in "Sarhad Journal of Agriculture in 2013"

Identification of drought tolerant wheat genotypes based on seedling traits.

Abstract: Drought significantly reduces yield of many crop plants including wheat in the world. Identification of wheat genotypes that can thrive on limited water is vital to boost the wheat production of rainfed areas. Forty wheat genotypes were screened for drought tolerance using 0, 7.5, 15 and 22.5% Polyethylene Ethylene Glycol 6000 solutions at PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan during 2009-10. Data were recorded on various seedling parameters like germination percentage, germination rate index, root length, shoot length, coleoptile length and seedling vigor. The seedling traits showed a decreasing trend in response to increased concentrations of PEG 6000. Wheat genotype Lyalpur-73 was found the best for germination percentage (87.5). The genotypes C-591 had maximum germination rate index (2.4). Wheat genotypes Pasban 90 and WC-18 possessed maximum root length (9.9) and seedling vigor (7.4) respectively. The genotype Auqab-2000 showed maximum shoot length (8.3). Wheat genotypes Pak-81 along with CB 335 had maximum coleoptile length (1.9). Germination percentage and germination rate index showed positive correlation with all other traits. Root length showed positive association with shoot length and coleoptile length. While shoot length had positive correlation with coleoptile length and seedling vigour.

Impact of socio-economic characteristics of farmers on access to agricultural credit

Abstract: This study aims to study impact of socio-economic characteristics of farmers on access to agricultural credit in Pakistan. Data have been collected using a structured questionnaire from a sample of 80 beneficiaries of formal agricultural credit from the district Swabi of Khyber Pahktunkhwa province. Amount of credit borrowed by the farmers is used as dependent variable whereas, the independent variables are different socio-economic characteristics of the borrowers of the agricultural credit including age, marital status, education, number of dependents, other occupations, farm size, farm status, tenancy status, farming experience, income from farming, and income from other occupations. The dependent variable is a categorical variable; therefore the Ordered Logit Model has been used for analysis of data. Findings suggest that the amount of agricultural credit that can be borrowed by the farmers is significantly affected by their marital status, farm status, farm size, and education level. History of modern agriculture has witnessed huge expansion in production. The development of agriculture is mainly due to the extensive use of credit. Agricultural credit is considered as an important factor in the course of modernization of agriculture. It creates and maintains adequate flow of inputs, and thus increases efficiency in farm production. It makes farmers able to use modern technologies and advanced practices. Credit facilities are vital for progress of the rural and agricultural development. In short, agricultural credit plays integral role in boosting up the speed of agricultural modernization and economic development, but only if it is easily and widely available and utilized effectively. Keeping in view the importance of credit for the agriculture sector, Government of Pakistan is providing low interest rate credit to farmers. Formal credit system has been established in rural areas to help farmer in agriculture production. This formal system is implemented in rural areas through establishment of banks, NGOs and cooperative societies etc. The organizations in Pakistan which lend formal credit are banks especially ZTBL and TACCAVI Loan, and Multi Purpose cooperatives. The informal lenders are also playing significant role in the rural areas of Pakistan since traditional times. Informal sector have comparative advantage in providing better services at low cost than formal sector. The wealthier families in rural area have better access to formal credit than poorer household. Poorer household mostly depend on the informal lenders. Various researchers have worked in different regions of the world on access to agriculture credit, obstacles faced by farmers in accessing agriculture credit, and the impact of their socio-economic characteristics on access to agriculture credit. This study is an attempt to study the impact of socio-economic characteristics of farmers on access to agricultural credit. Limitations of the Study In this study only those farmers are considered who have borrowed from formal credit sources like Zarai Taraqiyati Bank Limited (ZTBL) and other commercial banks creditors. But in the rural areas of Pakistan there are many farmers who take credit from the informal sources, therefore future researches should consider the informal credits as well.

Response of maize to different phosphorus levels under calcareous soil conditions.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of different levels of phosphorus on the yield and P uptake by maize [Zeamayscv Jalal) on calcareous soil (19% lime on w/w basis) of Peshawar soil series [Piedmont alluvium, silty clay loam, Ustochrept] The P treatments included 0 (control), 45, 90, 135 and 180 kg as P2O5 ha -1 were arranged in randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications The results showed that maize plant height, number of cobs plot -1 , grain and biomass yields increased with increasing levels of phosphorus The increase in grain yield of maize over control was 178, 264, 506 and 471 % and biomass by 2108, 3706, 3719, and 4213 % with application 45, 90, 135 and 180 kg P2O5 ha -1 , respectively The increase in yield and yield parameters above 135 kg ha -1 P application was non-significant, rather grain yield decreased when supplied with 180 kg P2O5 ha -1 Tissue P concentration significantly increased with increasing levels of P but with variable pattern at all the given stages of the crop growth During the initial growth viz vegetative stage, the differences between control and P applied plots as well as among different P levels were more wider than latter stages that could be associated to the dilution effect or translocation of P from leaves to grains Soil solution and AB-DTPA extractable P concentration determined at different stages of crop also tended to increase with increases in applied P levels The VCR values revealed that P applied at the rate of 135 kg P2O5 ha -1 was economical with VCR of 341:1 Based on higher crop growth and yield and P concentration in tissue and soil, it was concluded that application of 135 kg P2O5 ha -1 could be the appropriate dose of P for maize under the prevailing highly calcareous soil conditions

Efficacy of botanical extracts and a chemical pesticide against tomato fruit worm, Helicoverpa armigera

Abstract: Investigations on the effect of extracts of different botanicals i.e. neem seed extract (2.5%), turmeric extract (5%), henge extract (1.25%), garlic extract (5%) and insecticide (emamectin benzoate) (0.07%) on tomato fruit worm, Helicoverpa armigera, were carried out at New Developmental Farm of the The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan during, 2011. Minimum number of larvae plant -1 of H. armigera (0.40 and 0.46) was recorded in neem seed extract and emamectin benzoate and maximum number of 1.00 larvae plant -1 was recorded in control. Number of fruit damage was minimum (10.2%) in emamectin benzoate (0.07%) but it was highest (19.5%) in control. Maximum yield (7540 kg ha -1 ) was recorded in neem seed extract (2.5%) and percent infestation of larvae of tomato fruit worm was minimum (0.40) in emamectin benzoate whereas maximum (1.00) in control plot. Based on total yield and lower toxicity to the environment as well as human being neem seed extract is the most promising insecticide for the effective management of tomato fruit worm larvae. Garlic, turmeric and henge extracts proved ineffective in control of H. Armigera.

Effect of weed-crop competition on growth and yield of garden cress.

Abstract: A field experiment to evaluate the effect of weed-crop competition duration i.e. Zero competition and competition for 40, 50, 60, 70 and 80 days after emergence and throughout the growing season on the growth of weeds and yield of Lepidium sativum L. was conducted during 2005-06 at the Agronomic Research Area, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, Pakistan. The dominant weeds were Phalaris minor, Anagallis arvensis, Chenopodium album, Convolvulus arvensis and Medicago denticulata. Maximum density and dry weight of weeds were recorded in plots with competition throughout the season and the minimum was observed in weed-crop competition for 40 days after emergence. Maximum seed yield was recorded in plots where weeds were not allowed to grow throughout the growing season. The increase in yield was mainly due to greater plant height, branches and seeds per plant. The minimum seed yield was recorded in plots where weeds were allowed to compete with the crop throughout the growth period of the crop. For obtaining higher yield of garden cress it is suggested to control weeds before 40 days after emergence.

Effect of urease and nitrification inhibitors on wheat yield.

Abstract: A field experiment was conducted to assess the effect of urease and nitrification inhibitors on wheat yield at the Research Farm of the University of Agriculture Peshawar during 2011-12. The experiment was arranged in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications. Urea coated with urease inhibitor (agrotain) or urease combined with nitrification inhibitors (super urea) was applied each at 60 kg and 120 kg N ha -1 in 2 or 3 splits. The results showed that the inhibitors treated urea significantly increased the yield and yield components of wheat over the non-inhibitor urea treatment. The results further showed that super urea was more effective than agrotain in terms of increased yield. The improvement in yield with inhibitors was more with low (60 kg N ha -1 ) than with high dose of urea (120 kg N ha -1 ). Application of urea in 3 splits was better than 2 splits. The highest improvement of 42.9% in grain yield and 45.1% in total N uptake was obtained in treatment receiving super urea at 60 kg N ha -1 compared with non-inhibitor treated urea at 60 kg N ha -1 . The 2 nd highest improvement of 37.5% in grain yield and 38.0% in total N uptake was obtained in treatment receiving agrotain (urease inhibitor) treated urea at 60 kg N ha -1 compared with non-inhibitor treated urea at 60 kg N ha -1 . These results suggested that the use of N inhibitors significantly increased the yield of wheat. However, the combined use of urease and nitrification inhibitors (super- urea) was better than urease inhibitor alone (agrotain). Based on the findings of this study, improvement in wheat yield caused by urease and nitrification inhibitors is likely due to increased N use efficiency.

Trends in sunflower production and its potential in increasing domestic edible oil production in Punjab, Pakistan.

Abstract: Sunflower is usually cultivated as a cash crop for good return. During the last decade area and production of sunflower increased many times. The study was conducted with the objective to examine the trends in sunflower acreage, production and trade patterns and to determine sunflower potentials to increase the oilseeds production in the country and to identify factors/constraints for fluctuation of sunflower acreage and production. Therefore, a multidisciplinary team comprising of scientists from Social Sciences Institute (SSI), NARC, Oil Seed Programme of NARC, scientists from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Quetta conducted an informal survey during May-June 2008. It was found that area and production of sunflower has been increasing however, per unit productivity was lower than the potential level. According to the respondents low production was mainly due to threat of diseases, losses due to birds, adulteration in hybrid seed, high seed rate, higher price of seed, marketing problems and post harvest losses on one side and escalating cost of all other inputs on the other side. Hybrid seed of sunflower was recommended for cultivation in the country and 70-80 % of the sunflower cropped area was covered by hybrid seed. However, entire quantity of seed was imported and its cost was very high. In spite of all these inauspicious circumstances, growers were getting reasonable profit for their produce. The net profit per acre was estimated at Rs.10,569/- and Rs. 13,048/- with and without land rent, respectively. However, farmers received double of the return per rupee invested, without considering land rent.

Status of insecticide resistance in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) in southern Punjab, Pakistan.

Abstract: Insecticide resistance in Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) was evaluated against nine insecticides, representing conventional group of neuro-toxic insecticides such as endosulfan, profenofos, carbosulfan, and deltamethrin and new chemistry insecticides such as emamectin benzoate, abamectin, spinosad, lufenuron and methoxyfenozide at IPM Sub Station (PARC), Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan during 2010-11 . Two bioassay techniques i.e. residual method through leaf dip and topical method through micro-applicator were used for comparison. Low to moderate levels of resistance were recorded against these conventional and new chemistry insecticides at different locations of Southern Punjab, Pakistan e. g. in residual method, endosulfan (05-23 folds), profenofos (02-13 folds), carbosulfan (06-64 folds), deltamethrin (07-108 folds), emamectin benzoate (01-42 folds), abamectisn (03-06 folds), spinosad (01-07 folds), lufenuron (02-08 folds), methoxyfenozide (03-14 folds) and in topical method, endosulfan (05-36 folds),profenofos (02-65 folds), carbosulfan (19-105 folds), deltamethrin (13-35 folds), emamectin benzoate (02-06 folds), abamectin (01-04 folds), spinosad (04-61 folds), lufenuron (02-07 folds), methoxyfenozide (02-07 folds .The results indicated the development of multiple resistances in the field populations of H. armigera. Bioassay techniques showed no significant effects on the toxicity of insecticides. Resistance ratios in topical method were found higher as compared to the residual method, which may be attributed to the delayed cuticular penetration and enhanced metabolism of the insecticides. A significantly negative correlation was observed between conventional and new chemistry insecticides. It is suggested that the rotational use of conventional insecticides along with the new chemistry insecticides may be an effective tool in the insecticide resistance management program of H. armigera.

Correlation studies for some agronomic and quality traits in brassica napus l.

Abstract: Genetic variability and trait correlations were investigated in a study conducted at The University of Agriculture, Peshawar during the growing season 2010-11. Data were recorded on days to flower completion, plant height, seed pod -1 , 100 seed weight, oil, protein, glucosinolate, linolenic acid and erucic acid content. Highly significant (P≤0.01) variation was observed for all traits except 100 seed weight. Correlations were positive significant for plant height with seed pod -1 (0.37*), days to flowering completion with linolenic acid (0.47**), 100 seed weight with protein content (0.37*), oil content with erucic acid content (0.85**). Likewise negative significant associations were observed for oil content wi th protein content (-0.56**), 100 seed weight with linolenic acid (-0.04*).

Heritability and correlation analysis for morphological and biochemical traits in brassica carinata

Abstract: The present research was undertaken to estimate variation and heritability of some morphological and biochemical traits of introduced Ethiopian mustard genotypes. The experiment was carried out in randomized complete block design with three replications at the University of Agriculture Peshawar during 2011-2012. Analysis of variance showed highly significant differences among Brassica Carinata lines for studied parameters. Phenotypic coefficient of variation and genotypic coefficient of variation ranged from 4.92-48.24% and 3.2-38.1%, respectively. The highest heritability values were recorded for pod length (0.83) followed by pods on main raceme (0.82). Genetic advance (as percent of mean) was the highest for seed yield plant -1 and pods on main raceme. Highly significant positive phenotypic correlation for seed yield plant -1 was observed with plant height and primary branches plant -1 whereas significant positive phenotypic correlation was observed with seed pod -1 , while oil content was significantly positive correlated only with erucic acid. Carinata-29, Carinata-38, Carinata-45, Carinata-7, Carinata-47 and Carinata-83 were superior for seed yield and yield contributing traits, whereas Carinata-70 was the best for oil quality traits. On overall basis, carinata70 and carinata-83 were the best lines hence could be used in breeding programs.

Proximate analysis of plants of family Zygophyllaceae and Euphorbiaceae during winter

Abstract: The aim of this study was to find out the nutritional value of some selected plants of family Zygophyllaceae and Euphorbiaceae which are traditionally used in different parts of Pakistan. The five plants Fagonia cretica L., Peganum harmala L., Tribulus terrestris L., Chrozophora tinctoria (L.) Raf. and Ricinus communis L., were collected from Peshawar and Attock Hills during winter, 2009. In the present study it was found that the mean values exhibited that Peganum harmala excelled in high moisture contents, fat, carbohydrate, protein than Fagonia cretica and Tribulus terrestris L. Peganum harmala might be considered a good nutritive plant followed by Fagonia cretica that contained the highest fibre. The Tribulus terrestris also contained maximum protein and gross energy. The differences found in the proximate composition of these medicinal plants might be attributed to the habitat, environment and time of harvest. Chrozophora tinctoria and R. communis revealed variation in various analyzed biochemicals. The mean values showed that C. tinctoria had high moisture, ash, fibre and carbohydrate than its counterpart R. communis. Ricinus communis had more protein, fats and gross energy than C. tinctoria. The cultivation of R. communis should be encouraged on large scale for the development of biodiesel that will help people. Its seeds can be helpful for pharmaceutical, insecticidal and food industries.

Heritability estimates and yield performance of half sib families derived from maize variety sarhad white

Abstract: This experiment was conducted to evaluate the performance of 196 half sib families (HSF) derived from Sarhad White variety of maize at the Research Farm of Agricultural University, Peshawar using partially balanced lattice square design with two replications. Results indicated significant differences among HSF for all the studied traits, except grain yield. Among the 196 families, maximum days to tasseleing (58), silking (59) and anthesis (59) were recorded for HSF-58 and HSF-21, respectively. Maximum plant height (197 cm) was observed for HSF-11 while minimum (104 cm) was recorded for HSF- 105 and 145. Minimum ear height (44 cm) was observed for HSF61 while maximum (102.5 cm) was recorded for HSF-27. Highest kernel rows ear -1 (19) was observed for HSF-152 whereas, minimum (11) was recorded for HSF-134 and HSF-182. Maximum 100 grains weight (42.9.6 g) was expressed by HSF-23 while minimum (23.05 g) was exhibited by HSF-132. Highest grain yield (11018.5 kg ha -1 ) was recorded for HSF-117 while minimum grain yield (987.5 kg ha -1 ) was recorded for HSF-67. Maximum heritability estimate (69.17 %) was observed for plant height, while minimum (5.08 %) was observed for days to mid-silking. Highest correlation of yield was recorded with ear height. These results suggest that these half-sib families could be used as source of improved maize germplasm for developing maize genotypes with superior attributes.

An analysis of sugarcane production with reference to extension services in union council Malakandher-Peshawar.

Abstract: Keeping in view the importance of sugarcane in Khyber Pakhtunkwa, Pakistan the present study was initiated in December 2008. The study was based on primary as well as secondary data. The universe of study consisted of Union Council Malakandher of District Peshawar, Pakistan. Total sample size was 80 for this study. Majority of the respondents i.e. 91% consisted of small size of landholding and poor finical resources, 90% of sample respondents were illiterate and used traditional method of cultivation. Extension services were criticized and their role in adoption and diffusion technology was negligible. Area under sugarcane cultivation was decreased in the study area, and yield of sugarcane decreased by 31% during the last five years. The main factors responsible for low sugarcane production were poor finical condition of the farmers, lack of technical know how, unavailability and high prices of chemical fertilizers and high yielding varieties in local market, and in-efficient and in-effective role of extension staff. Small farmers should be encouraged to invest in agriculture, through the provision of soft loans and technical assistance.

A study on quality traits of chicken eggs collected from different areas of Karachi.

Abstract: Present study was conducted to evaluate the quality traits of poultry eggs collected from various sources i.e. market, commercial farm and backyard farming, in Karachi. A total of 250 eggs were analyzed for external and internal qualities. A significant difference (p <0.05) was recorded in quality parameters except percent shell, shell thickness, egg width, egg weight, shape index and Haugh unit between eggs analyzed. It was observed that eggs collected directly from farms and backyard poultry had a superior internal and external quality feature when compared with eggs from market due to a short period of storage. While the indigenous chicken eggs were rather smaller in size when compared with farm and market eggs. Whereas the farm eggs were cheaper in price as compared to market eggs but the eggs from backyard had a higher cost of purchase. It was concluded that due to inadequate storage and transportation eggs collected from market are of low quality and expensive in comparison to eggs purchased directly from farms of backyard farming.

Organic management of root knot nematodes in tomato with spent mushroom compost.

Abstract: This study was carried out to assess the effect of spent compost of button and oyster mushrooms on the management of root knot nematodes and to measure total phenolic compounds in the spent composts. Higher levels of phenolic compounds were found in spent of oyster than button mushroom. Total phenolic compounds contained in button mushroom spent compost (BMSC) and oyster mushroom spent compost (OMSC) were 8.75µg/mg and 10.75µg/mg, respectively. Different concentrations of the spent mushroom compost were applied to the M. incognita eggs. OMSC was found more effective in reducing the egg hatching and killing juveniles of root-knot nematodes than button compost. In pot studies at greenhouse, the stimulatory and inhibitory effects of the two composts were also studied. Oyster spent compost was found more effective in inhibiting the galling and production of egg masses in the roots followed by button compost thereby stimulating the plant growth as compared to button compost.

Effect of organic and inorganic amendments on the heavy metal content of soil and wheat crop irrigated with wastewater.

Abstract: Field experiment was conducted to study the effect of wastewater irrigation and different organic and inorganic amendments on the phytoavailability of metals to wheat crop. Wheat was grown in (2x1 m plot) irrigated with wastewater generated from HIE (Hayatabad Industrial Estate, Peshawar, Pakistan) and municipal wastes during 2008. Five different amendments viz farm yard manure (FYM), poultry manure (PM), diammonium phosphate (DAP), triple super phosphate (TSP) and humic acid (HA) were applied and mixed with soil prior to crop growing. In addition, a control (Tubewell irrigation TW) and only wastewater (WW) irrigation plot (without amendments) was also set up for comparison. The FYM and PM were applied at the rate of 10 tons ha -1 . The DAP and TSP were added @ of 150 kg ha -1 as P where as HA was added @ of 1.5 kg ha -1 . A Basal dose of N and K @ of 120 and 60 kg respectively were also added to all experimental plots except control. The results showed that wheat yield and yield components were significantly increased with the addition of all the amendments compared to control and the higher increase was noted in HA treated plots. The effect of different amendments applied on AB-DTPA extractable metals was significant for Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Pb (P<0.05) and non significant for Cd, Cr and Zn. Higher concentration were noted in the wastewater applied plots with exception of Zn that was lowest in wastewater irrigated plots. The effect of all the amendments on ABDTPA extractable metals was comparable with exception of Pb that was significantly reduced by DAP. It was concluded that all the metals under study were below the toxicity level in soil and none of the essential nutrient was deficient. The leaves metal concentrations showed that higher values of all the metal under study were noted in leaves when irrigated with WW and TW irrigated plants resulted minimum accumulation of metals in leaves. The effect of different amendments on the plant uptake of metal was variable. Addition of HA reduced the uptake of Cd, Cr, Mn whereas DAP was effective in reducing the phytoavailability of Pb and Zn.

Field based assessment of rice bacterial leaf blight in major rice growing zones of Pakistan.

Abstract: All rice growing zones of Pakistan were surveyed during cropping season 2005-2007, for bacterial blight of rice (Oryza sativa L.) caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv oryzae. Results indicated that in Khyber pakhtunkhwa (KP) disease incidence ranged between 35-80.2%, whereas severity was between 3.3 and 7.0.. In Punjab, Sindh and Balochistan,disease incidence ranged between 36.8-74.6%, 11.67-46.67% and 12-21.67%, respectively. Severity observed was 3-6, 0.67-3.33 and 0.33-1.22, respectively in these areas.

Response of tomato to nitrogen levels with or without humic acid

Abstract: An experiment was conducted to study the response of tomato to nitrogen levels with or without Humic acid on yield and yield components of tomatoAdvanta-1209` sown at New Developmental Farm ( Horticulture section),The University of Agriculture, Peshawar Pakistan, during summer 2011 The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design with spilt plot arrangements having three replications The experiment involved two factors, Humic acid (0 and 5 kg ha -1 ) allotted to main plot and nitrogen (0, 25, 50, 75, 100, 125 and 150 kg ha -1 ) kept in sub plots The results showed that leaf length (cm), plant height (cm), fruit weight (g), and yield (t ha -1 ) were significantly affected, whereas survival percentage and blossom end rot to fruits were not significantly affected by Humic acid and nitrogen levels and interaction of both High leaf length (643 cm), plant height (8292 cm), fruit weight (7527 gm) and yield (2849 t ha -1 ) were produced by Humic acid applied at the rate of 5 kg ha -1 and maximum leaf length (688 cm), plant height (8916 cm), fruit weight (7882 gm) and yield (3243 t ha -1 ) were recorded by nitrogen applied at the rate of 125 kg ha -1 From this study it can be concluded that tomato plants should be treated with fertilizers, Humic acid and nitrogen at the rate of 5 kg and 125 kg ha -1 , respectively to obtain maximum and quality yield

Combining ability effects of some phenological traits in bread wheat

Abstract: Five wheat varieties/lines viz. Chakwal-97, Inqlab-91, GA-2002, 6C001 and 6C002 were crossed in 5 x 5 diallel cross to estimate combining ability at PMAS Arid Agriculture University, Rawalpindi, Pakistan during 2007-2008 and 2008-2009. GCA effects for days to heading (7.81), flag leaf area (22.07), plant height (82.18), number of tiller metre -2 (2997.21), days to maturity (9.59) and grain yield plant -1 (47.76) were non-significant indicating the preponderance of non additive type of gene action for these traits. SCA effects were highly significant for days to heading (26.81), flag leaf area (365.11), plant height (141.05), number of tillers metre -2 (8639.21), days to maturity (18.85) and grain yield plant -1 (93.70) which indicated that these traits are being controlled by non-additive type of gene action. RCA effects were also highly significant for all the traits studied suggesting selection can be effective in later generations. Chakwal-97 proved to be the best general combiner for all the characters under study except plant height. Among hybrids, Chakwal-97 x 6C002 proved better having maximum SCA for days to heading, number of tillers metre -2 and days to maturity while hybrid Chakwal-97 x Inqlab-91 had higher SCA for 1000 grain yield plant -1 . Hence it can be concluded that Chakwal-97 may be used in breeding programmes to develop high yielding wheat cultivars.

Phytotoxic and insecticidal activity of plants of family Zygophyllaceae and Euphorbiaceae.

Abstract: The statistical analysis revealed that 10g and 20g extracts of all the tested plants significantly inhibited the growth of Lemna minor with significant differences. The plants means were non-significant while the interaction between extracts and plants was significant. Fagonia cretica, Peganum harmala, Tribulus terrestris, Chrozophora tinctoria and Ricinus communis caused significant growth inhibition of Lemna minor in all the dilutions. The interaction between plants and dilution was non-significant. Among the three plants extracts, Peganum harmala showed the highest insects mortality followed by Fagonia cretica at the same dose. Tribulus terrestris showed the lowest mortality of Tribolium castaneum. All the doses (5 to 20%) of the plant extracts showed significant differences of mortality of T. castaneum as compared to control. The highest dose mean (12.8%) was shown by P. harmala, while the lowest dose mean was shown by T. terrestris.

Mineral composition of local tree leaves for feeding sheep and goats in Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Abstract: Mineral profile of tree leaves from eight local species (Acacia modesta, Albezia lebbeck, Capparis aphyla, Prosopes Juliflora, Tecoma undulata, Olea cuspidate, Ziziphus mauritiana and Ziziphus jujuba) was evaluated for feeding to sheep and goats. Leave samples were collected from three different locations (Surgul, Shakardara and Gumbat) in Kohat district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan province and analyzed for total mineral matter, Ca, P, Na, K, Cu, Zn, Fe and Mn and In vitro DM digestibility. Statistical variations due to tree species and location were inconsistent for macro and micro minerals. Except Na, the contents of Ca, P and K were significantly influenced by tree species. Calcium contents were in the optimum range (1.66 to 5.14%) in all the leaves except Capparis aphyla (0.22%). Conversely, P was in the lower range (0.05-0.14%) in all samples that resulted in wide Ca:P ratio. Na in all samples was found ten times less than the required levels. Potassium was two folds higher than the recommended dietary level. Among the four micro-minerals, only Zn and Mn responded to difference in tree species and none varied due to location. Copper contents averaged 3.32 ppm across the tree species as against the required dietary levels 4 to10 ppm. The contents of Zn. Fe and Mn were found above the optimum levels and averaged 42, 186 and 94 ppm, respectively. The low in vitro DM digestibility (25.96 - 51.28%) of the tree leaves may constrain bioavailability of minerals and requires research to overcome this limitation.

Effect of male to female ratio and vitamin-E Selenium on fertility, hatchability and hatched chick weight of quail breeders.

Abstract: The aim of this study was to examine the effect of mating ratio (male: female) and vitamin E -Selenium supplementation on fertility, hatchability and hatched chick weight of quail breeders. Total 720 Japanese quails of ten weeks of age with an average of 50% egg production were divided into four groups A, B, C and D having male: female mating ratio of 1:1, 1:2, 1:3 and 1:4 respectively. All the four groups were further sub-divided in to vitamin E -Selenium supplemented (at the rate of 1ml/6 liters of drinking water) and control sub-groups. Each sub-group was further replicated three times with 30 quails/ replicate. Mating ratio and vitamin E -Selenium supplementation had significant (P<0.05) effect on fertility and hatchability. The highest fertility (79 %) and hatchability (78 %) were observed in 1:1 group A, while the lowest fertility (70 %) and hatchability (62 %) were observed in 1:4 group D. Fertility and hatchability with the supplementation of vitamin E -Selenium, the highest fertility (88 %) and hatchability (81 %) were recorded for 1:1 group A, while the least fertility (75 %) and hatchability (64 %) for the 1:4 group D was recorded. Hatched chick weight was significantly (P<0.05) affected by mating ratio while vitamin E -Selenium supplementation had no significant (P<0.05) effect on hatched chick weight. The highest hatched chick weight was (8.16 g) for 1:3 group C while least (7.41g) was for 1:2 group B. It was concluded that 1:1 mating ratio alone and in combination with vitamin E-Selenium supplementation has highest fertility (79%) and hatchability (78%) in Japanese quails. While hatched chick weight was the highest in 1:3 mating group.

Seedling establishment and yield of maize under different seed priming periods and available soil moisture

Abstract: Hydropriming of seeds responded very well to improve germination and emergence of manyAgronomic crops. Among different strategies to cope with germinability issues , hydropriming is an easy, low cost, and lowrisk technique. Seed priming is as pre-sowing treatment in water or in an osmotic solution that allows seed to imbibe water to initiate the first stages of germination, but preventsradicle protrusion through the seed coat. Rapid and uniform field emergence is an essential prerequisite to reach the yield potential , quality, and ultimately profit in annual crops. Establishment of an adequate standis also important for grain yield of crops and is uncertain in most of the tropicalareas because available soil moisture at planting is often marginal for plant growth. Water stress during seed germination is among the most widespread abiotic stresses limiting seedling emergence, which ultimately reduces crop productivity. To achieve the objective of the study, field experiment was conducted at Students Farm, Sindh Agricul ture University Tandojam, Pakistan. The experiment was laid out under Randomized Complete Block Design (Factorial) with three replications, to evaluate the effect of hydropriming periods (0 (control) 6, 12, 18, and 24 h) and available soil moisture levels (60-65, 55-60 and 50-55%) on maize (Zea mays L.) seedling growth and yield traits. Results showed maximum seedling growth traits viz. shoot length, root length, shoot dry weight plant -1 , root dry weight plant -1 , leaves seedling -1 , crop growth rate and leaf area plant -1 , and maximum yield traits viz. cobs plant -1 , grains cob -1 , seed index and seed yield when maize seed wassown for 18 h hydropriming. Similarly, In case of available soil moisture treatments m aximum shoot length, root length, shoot dry weig ht, root dry weight, leaves seedling -1 crop growth rate, leaf area plant -1 , cobs plant -1 , grains cob -1 , seed index and seed yield were observed when maize seeds were sown in 60 -65 and 55-60% available soil moisture, respectively. It is concluded that hydropriming is an efficient technique for enhanced seed emergence and seedling establishment under optimal and sub -optimal available soil moisture conditions. This study recommends 18h hydropriming before sowing maize when sown in 55-65% available soil moisture to achieve maximum emergence, establishment of vigorous rooting system and uniform plantstands which are necessary for growth and yield ofmaize.

Analyzing the impact of farmer field school on technical efficiency of cotton growers in southern districts of Punjab-Pakistan: Stochastic production Frontier approach

Abstract: This study was designed to assess the impact of Farmer Field Schools (FFS) on technical efficiency and to compare the cotton production of FFS and Non-FFS cotton growers in southern districts of Punjab Province, Pakistan. The four districts namely Khanewal, Bahawalpur, Rahim Yar Khan and Vehari were selected as a study universe. The multi-stage and equal allocation sampling technique was used to estimate the sample size. The data was collected in the year 2011 from 400 respondents, which includes 200 FFS Farmers and 200 Non FFS Farmers. The Stochastic Frontier Production approach of Cobb-Douglas type followed by Technical Efficiency estimates was employed to achieve the objectives of the study. The major findings of the study indicate that the farmers who were members of FFS have 38 percent more cotton yield compared to that of Non FFS Farmers. The analysis further reveals that cotton growers are confronted with diminishing returns to scale as the coefficient of chewing and sucking pest sprays are negative and statistically significant. The technical efficiency estimates illustrate that the mean technical efficiency score was 77.65 percent that implies that there is substantial room to enhance the technical efficiency by 22.34 percent of the cotton growers in the study area. The technical efficiency results also confirmed that no FFS farmer found in the lowest two ranges i.e. 36.83 to 46.83 percent and 46.84 to 56.84 percent. However, the lowest technical efficiency range of Non-FFS farmers was 36.83 to 46.83 percent, which implies that FFS Farmers are more technically efficient as compared to Non-FFS Farmers. The inefficiency model shows that increase in respondent’s age and high educational level have a positive contribution for cotton yield. Conversely, the contact of cotton growers with Agriculture Extension department contributes for high inefficiency shows the weak linkages between extension staff and the cotton growers of the study area. It is recommended that FFS approach should be a non-developmental programme and should be executed under the umbrella of single institution for its proper implementation and monitoring.

Breeding bread wheat for low phytic acid using full diallel crosses

Abstract: Phytic acid (Myo-inositol 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 hexa-kisphophate) is a storage form of phosphorus and can accumulate to levels as high as 35% in the wheat kernel. Phytic acid acts as an anti-nutritional macromolecule (antinutrient) in the wheat kernel. Due to its inhibitory role, a high concentration of phytic acid is undesirable as it hinders the bioavailability of some essential nutrients such as Fe, Mg, Ca, Zn and Cu, etc. To see the inheritance of phytic acid in wheat, phytic acid concentration was initially determined in kernels of 10 wheat genotypes to identify two contrasting genetic groups for diallel analysis. Based on pre-screening results of 10 wheat genotypes, five wheat genotypes (3 with high and 2 with low phytic acid concentration) were crossed in all possible combinations during 2007-08 to generate a 5 × 5 full diallel set for studying the inheritance of phytic acid and other agronomic traits. All 20 F1 hybrids and 5 parental genotypes were planted using a randomized complete block design with three replicates during 2008-09 at Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Agricultural University, Peshawar. Analysis of variance revealed significant differences for all traits, providing justification for diallel analysis. According to Hotelling’s t 2 test and regression analysis, the additivedominance model was adequate for phytic acid, plant height, flag leaf area, partially adequate for days to heading and grain filling duration. Values of D greater than H1 and H2 for flag leaf area and plant height indicated their additive nature, whereas values of D less than H1 and H2 for grain filling duration and phytic acid concentration accounted for non-additive control of these traits. The narrow and broad sense heritability estimates varied widely among traits for days to heading (0.07, 0.32), flag leaf area (0.31, 0.55), grain filling duration (0.24, 0.91), plant height (0.12, 0.28) and phytic acid concentration (0.01, 0.86). The values for phytic acid concentration ranged from 0.56 to 3.43% among F1 hybrids and 1.06 to 3.67% for parental genotypes. The F1 hybrids, Ps-2005 × Ghaznavi (0.56%), AUP-4006 × Ps2004 (0.74%), Janbaz × Ps-2004 (0.89%) and Janbaz × Ps-2005 (1.01%), had the lowest concentration of phytic acid. This research confirms that F1 hybrids with low phytic acid concentration could yield desirable segregants.

Determinants and margins of exporting mango from Pakistan to UAE market.

Abstract: Mango is one of the most important fruit crops and Pakistan is the world’s fourth largest producer and exporter of mango. The major objectives of this study were to conduct export margin analysis of Pakistani mango to UAE market and estimate impact of major variables on export of mango from Pakistan to UAE market. Data were collected from a representative sample of forty mango exporters selected randomly for this purpose using pre-tested questionnaire containing both structured and unstructured questions employing personal interview method. Data (average purchase prices, different elements of marketing cost and sale prices) were analyzed to estimate margins in export of mango to UAE market. The impact of major variables (experience and education of exporters, average purchase price, average marketing cost, average sale price, ISO certificate and government policy) on mango export was quantified employing double log form of regression analysis. According to findings, gross margin was calculated as Rs.31333/ton, whereas percent and net export margins were found 52.3 percent and Rs.11228/ton respectively. The estimated regression model revealed that education, professional experience of mango exporters, average marketing cost and ISO certificate were the significant determinants of mango exports. It may be suggested that marketing cost of exporting mango from Pakistan should be economized and quality improved to fetch premium prices in UAE market.

Micronutrients status of peach orchards in swat valley

Abstract: A survey was conducted to assess the Zn, Cu, Fe, Mn, and B status of 50 peach (Prunuspersical L.) orchards in Swat Valley of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province during 2008. Soil at 0 -15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm along with leaf samples were collected from each orchard and analyzed for micronutrients contents. The soil of surveyed orchards were either loam (38.3 %), silt loam (38.3 %), sandy loam (19.2 %), loamy sand (2.1 %) or clay loam (2.1 %) in texture and none of the soil samples at 0-15 cm was deficient in AB-DTPA extractable Cu, Zn, Fe, Mn or HCl extractable B. The lower depths (15-45 cm) were deficient in Zn and B only in 4 -8 % peach orchards. The leaf tissue analysis showed that none of the orchards was low in Cu, Mn and Fe. However, B was deficient in 6 % and Zn in 2 % peach orchards. No or poor correlation was found between soil and plants tests for diagnosing micronutrient deficiencies in peach orchards. The significant correlation of surface soil (0 -15 cm) with cumulative micronutrient contents of the profile (0-45 cm) revealed that the surface soil analysis can be used to measure pattern in micronutrients fertility of the profile. These results suggested that peach orchards in Swat valley are not yet seriously deficient in micronutrients but the deficiency iappearing. Therefore, these orchards should be assessed regularly for micronutrients status for timely management.

Relative abundance of aphids population on different brassica genotypes

Abstract: Twelve Brassica genotypes i.e. Westar, Ganyou-5, Rainbow, Oscar, Vangard, Crusher, Torch, Legend, Altex, Raya Anmol, Peela Raya and T-16-401 representing four Brassica species including B. napus, B. juncea, B. carinata and B. campestris were tested for aphid’s density and yield in the Research Farm of The University of Agriculture, Peshawar, Pakistan. Data on aphid’s density showed that average aphid’s density per plant on 12 brassica genotypes during 2006-07 and 2007-08 was at peak during the 2 nd and 3 rd weak of January. The aphid density 37.94, 34.87, 30.47, 27.57, 26.86, 25.39, 24.89, 23.55, 23.41, 21.57, 18.42 and 12.84 aphids plant -1 ) were recorded on Legend, Ganyou-5, Oscar, Raya Anmol, Rainbow, Torch, T-16-401, Peela Raya, Westar, Altex, Crusher and Vangard, respectively. Statistically there were significant differences in the number of aphids per plant among the genotypes. Non of the genotype was found completely free from aphids attack. Vangard with minimum (12.84) aphids /plant was the most tolerant followed by Crusher, Altex, Westar, Peela Raya, T-16-401, Torch, Rainbow, Raya Anmol, Oscar, Ganyou-5 while Legend as most susceptible, in the order. Peela Raya had moderately high density of aphids per plant.