How does climate change impact millet or sorghum in northern Nigeria?4 answersClimate change impacts millet and sorghum production in northern Nigeria by affecting crop yields due to increased temperatures, prolonged dry seasons, and erratic rainfall patterns. Studies show that historical climate changes have already led to significant yield losses in the region, with average annual production losses estimated at billions of USD for millet and sorghum. Furthermore, the use of crop simulation models indicates that sustainable agricultural practices are crucial for mitigating these impacts, as systems with higher intensification but less emphasis on soil conservation are more negatively affected by climate change compared to sustainable ones. Implementing optimal planting windows and utilizing adapted cultivars are recommended strategies to enhance sorghum productivity in the face of climate change challenges in northern Nigeria.
How does the climate in different parts of Nigeria affect the vegetation and biodiversity in these areas?5 answersThe diverse climate in Nigeria, ranging from tropical monsoon to semi-arid and savannah climates, significantly impacts vegetation and biodiversity. Climate change exacerbates these effects, leading to desert encroachment in the northern states and vegetation degradation due to anthropogenic activities. The warming climate causes ecosystem degradation, biodiversity decline, and species extinctions, especially in arid and semi-arid zones. Nigeria's vulnerability to climate change, with irregular rainfall patterns and temperature rise, poses risks like food scarcity and flooding, affecting ecosystems and biodiversity. To address these challenges, sustainable strategies in agriculture, wildlife conservation, and fisheries management are crucial for climate resilience and biodiversity preservation in Nigeria.
What are the effect of climate change in Nigeria?5 answersClimate change in Nigeria has various effects on the environment, economy, social development, and energy sector. It leads to a decrease in agricultural productivity, with a 15% increase in harmful degree days resulting in a 5.22% decrease in productivity on average. The impact of climate change is particularly disastrous in developing areas like sub-Saharan Africa, including Nigeria, which lack the necessary facilities and infrastructure to combat its negative effects. In addition to agricultural impacts, climate change also affects human health, with increasing temperatures in Maiduguri leading to heat-related complications among patients with cardiovascular diseases. Climate change has also caused conflicts between Fulani herders and local farmers, as limited green vegetation in northern Nigeria has forced herders to move their livestock to southern Nigeria, resulting in destruction of lives and property. Overall, climate change negatively affects agricultural production, leading to reduced food production, poverty, and destruction of arable lands, while also posing challenges to human health and causing conflicts between different groups.
How does climate change affect smallholder farmers?5 answersClimate change has significant impacts on smallholder farmers. These impacts include changes and variability in rainfall, droughts, floods, and land degradation, which result in crop failures and reduced food production. Smallholder farmers employ various adaptation strategies to cope with these effects. These strategies include setting up multiple farms, changing agricultural techniques, adopting improved crop varieties, diversifying livelihoods, conserving soil and water, and implementing coping mechanisms. Factors such as social networks, age, education level, farming experience, household size, income, and access to information influence farmers' decision-making process for adaptation options. Smallholder farmers greatly perceive climate change and its negative impacts on their farming operations. They have taken initiatives such as changing planting dates, growing crop variety mixtures, and practicing soil and water conservation. The psychosocial impacts of climate change, such as feelings of threat, humiliation, and negative emotions, also affect smallholder farmers and have implications for sustainable development.
How diseases affects sorghum?3 answersDiseases have a significant impact on sorghum crops, leading to economic damage and yield losses. Sorghum is affected by various biotic stresses, including insects, diseases, and parasitic plants. Insects such as shoot fly, spotted stem borer, sorghum midge, and head bug are devastating pests of economic importance for sorghum crops. Sorghum is also susceptible to diseases caused by fungi, bacteria, viruses, nematodes, and parasitic plants. These diseases can cause considerable loss in yield, quality, and nutritional properties of sorghum, affecting both food and feed safety as well as trade of grain. The impact of diseases on sorghum varies globally, with some pathogens being economically important worldwide, while others are regionally and locally significant. Managing and improving disease resistance in sorghum is crucial for minimizing the negative effects of diseases and enhancing the yield and quality of sorghum crops.
What is the climatic requirement for sorghum?5 answersSorghum has specific climatic requirements for optimal growth and productivity. It is a plant of tropical origin and requires a warm climate to express its production potential. Sorghum can be easily grown in latitudes ranging from 40 °S to 45 °N, making it suitable for tropical and sub-tropical climates. However, it is important to consider the sensitivity of sorghum to climate change and its potential for crop improvement strategies. Sorghum is a climate-resilient food crop that is less sensitive to climate change vulnerabilities and can provide sustainable yields in future climate change scenarios. Additionally, sorghum possesses traits that enable it to overcome drought, making it suitable for cultivation in arid and semi-arid regions. Overall, sorghum requires a warm climate, is adaptable to tropical and sub-tropical climates, and has the potential to withstand climate change and drought conditions.