Agriculture

A study was conducted to identify the major dairy production constraints in Alaba Wereda, the Southern Nations and Nationalities People Region to provide base line information on the major dairy production problems in the area. A total of 60 respondents (10% from total population) were selected from 6 peasant associations and interviewed using structured questionnaire. Focus group discussion was also made with key respondents and the participants described the major dairy problems on their area. Data was analyzed through descriptive statistics (frequency, percentage) using SPSS software. A total of 60 farmers were interviewed. Among them 92 % were male household farmers and the rest 8 % was women household farmers. Maximum farmland size own by the respondents of the study area was 1.5 ha. Moreover, 1.8ha and 0.28ha is the mean farmland and grazing land own by the respondents respectively. Farmers reported that cattle were first (46.6%) rank follow poultry (23.4 %) as importance livestock used. Most respondents (70%) first and foremost keep cattle for draft purpose followed by milk products (65.2%), selling live animals (3.5%) and lastly for manure (5.25%). About 42.9% of respondents keep their Cross breeds animals in the same house where they live (Not separated). Only 57.1% out of the total respondents had separate shelters for their Cross breed’s animals. However, 50% of the interviewer was reported keep for their local breed’s animals on the separate shelters. The principal feed resources available to livestock in the study area include crop-residue (31.9%), natural pasture (22.3%) and concentrates (17%). The most critical periods of feed shortage were summer, autumn and spring (80% 12% and 8%) respectively. Out of the sample size 18.5% of the respondents used Artificial insemination for mating, 77.5% of the respondents were used natural mating bull with cross breed blood and 4% of the respondents also used a combination of AI and cross breed bull. The overall average lactation lengths and milk yields per cow per day of local and crossbred cows were 4 and 7 months, 2.1 and 7liters respectively. Mastitis, anthrax, ticks and black leg are the most prevalent disease that attacks dairy cattle’s. The respondents reported that shortage of feed (50.6%), low pasture land productivity (34.2%), low animal productivity performance (15.8%), and Disease (17.3%) was the major dairy production constraints on the study area.

The zone wise Sindh land resources analysis finds sufficient evidence that Sindh Southern Province of Pakistan is naturally divided in different zones and every zone offers excellent product potential of its own. The central cropping zone has been found suitable for crop cultivation and horticultural farms. The coastal and hilly areas are suitable for forest tourism and fishing. The arid zone boasts of great potential for live stock breeding and hunting grounds with range land forest. The policy makers neglected the absolute advantages of each and every zone during policy formulation since long. This paper tries to finds potential of livestock’s in Sindh, main problems in its development and feasible policy recommendations for further development of the sector and concludes that low level of feeding, traditional method of breeding, inadequate health facilities institutional mismanagements and low extent of markets and infrastructure are major obstacles in its development. The study also concludes that livestock sub sector naturally offer great potential particularly in arid zone and need policy maker’s immediate attention.

According to the Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis, (2009) Kenya’s poverty levels are estimated to be on the decline, while the number of those living below the poverty line is estimated to have increased from 13.4 million in 1997 to about 16.6 million in 2006. The incidence of poverty is higher in rural areas at 49.1 per cent compared with 33.7 per cent in urban areas. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of linkages on small scale livestock farming in Baringo County. The study adopted the stakeholder’s theory by (Friedman, 1984) which states that the organization itself should be thought of as grouping of stakeholders who manage their interests, needs and viewpoints. He posits that the parties involved in an enterprise, includes governmental bodies, political groups, trade associations, trade unions, communities, financiers, suppliers, employees, and customers, who play a significant role in enterprise success. The research employed stratified random and simple random sampling for data collection. A structured questionnaire using interviews was administered to a representative sample of 67 small-scale livestock farmers. Data was collected on types of links, incidence of links and function of identified link formations. The study hypothesis was tested using Chi-square at 0.05 level of significance. Study findings showed a significant relationship between linkages and small scale livestock performance. The study recommends that agricultural stakeholders such as KVDA, KARI, KLMC and MLFD should partner with the farmers in providing relevant information, so as to facilitate better management of their livestock, training on better technologies, breeding options, and ensure enterprise growth for sustainable economic development. Research on the establishment of community ranches and a meat processing firm within the county be carried for the benefit of the farmers and provide ready market with less exploitation from middlemen.

Nitrogen (N) fertilizer management is a challenge in potato production. Therefore, a study was carried out to known the impact of varieties and nitrogen levels on leaf chlorophyll content and tuber size of potato. All possible combination of two varieties of potato viz. Kufri Sadabahar (V1) and Kufri Surya (V2) and five nitrogen levels (0, 75, 150, 225 and 300 kg N/ha) were replicated thrice in factorial randomize block design. Two year pooled data shows that vareties did not varies significantly for chlorophyll content ‘a’ and ‘b’ of potato leaves but the it was affected significantly by nitrogen levels and recorded highest with treatment N3 (0.74 and 0.90 mg/ g leaves, chlorophyll ‘a’ and ‘b’, respectively). Interaction effect of treatment V1N4 gave maximum chlorophyll ‘a’ content but variation among treatments interaction were non significant for chlorophyll ‘b’ content. 0-25 g and >75 g tuber number recorded higher in Kufri Surya (V2) having 255.91 and 275.70 thousand/ha, respectively, while, yield of 0-25 g tubers higher in Kufri Sadabahar (V1) i.e. 1.58 t/ha, other grade tuber yield showed non significant variation for varieties. The size of tuber was increased with increase in nitrogen levels. The number and weight of smaller size tuber observed higher with lower lever levels of nitrogen, while, number and weight of larger size tubers observed higher with higher level nitrogen. Interaction of varieties and nitrogen levels affect significantly to number and weight of different size tubers.

Assessment of land response to certain land uses is necessary to reach the sustainable land management. In this study Almagra model from MicroLEIS DSS and remote sensing technology were used to determine the suitability of land for main crops in an arid region east of Tehran (Iran). The weighted average of land and soil characteristic were obtained from representative soil profiles in each land mapping unit, through digital classification of satellite images and entered to the model. Land suitability maps for each crop were presented as thematic maps by integrating soil map with determined land suitability classes in GIS. The results showed that %55 of the area has moderate to high suitability for wheat, alfalfa, maize and melon. Salinity, alkalinity and soil texture are considered as the main soil restrictions for studied crops in this area. According to the obtained results, the priority of the selected crops should be considered as wheat, alfalfa/ melon and maize, respectively. Application of remote sensing technology accompany with land suitability models helped  to enhance the abilities of this model by both saving the data compilation time  and generating georeferenced data to overlay with other information layers and spatialization in GIS.

It is important to evaluate the capacity of soils to support arable crop production for proper land use planning and sustainable management. The soils developed on schists in southern guinea savannah zone (Kabba) and older granites in dry upland rainforest zone (Ado-Ekiti) were mapped and classified with Land Capability Classification. Profile pits were dug and described in sixteen pedons delineated at both locations. Soils samples were collected from the pedons for the analysis of some soil physico-chemical properties. Data on climate and physiographic features were also collected. The capability groupings of the soils are as follows: KA-IIIS3,4; KB, KF, KH, AB and AF- IIIS4; KC, KD, KE, KG and AA- IIIS4, while AC, AD, AE and AG were VS4, VS3,4, IVS4 and VW2S4.The capabilities of the 16 pedons were limited by low nutrient capacity, shallow depth and wetness due to high water table. Appropriate fertility management scheme and land use were suggested for both sites.

The objective of this study was to determine the internal and external quality characteristics of quail eggs and the effect of egg weight and body size on these traits. For this investigation, one hundred thirty-two eggs were obtained from 120 Japanese quails grown on a deep litter system. Egg Weight (EW), Egg Length (EL), Egg Width (EWT), Yolk Height (YH), Yolk Diameter (YD), Albumen Length (AL), Albumen Height (AH), Yolk Weight (YW), Shell Weight (SW), Shell Thickness (ST), and Albumen Diameter (AD) were all measured, and Egg Surface Area (ESA), Unit Surface Shell Weight (USW), Egg Index (EI), Shell Ratio (SR). According to the findings, age significantly affected egg weight, body weight, yolk diameter, shell weight, egg surface area, and unit surface shell weight (P<0.05). However, all other parameters were not affected by age (P>0.05). Furthermore, increasing egg weight had a negative effect on egg shape index and egg yolk ratio. Most of the internal egg quality traits studied were negatively affected by increasing the eggshell ratio.

Pores and organic matter take a multitude of forms in soil and their characteristics change in space and time following a change in tillage practices as a new “steady state” is approached. Information on the variation with depth (stratification) in the characteristics of pores and organic matter and the rates of changes in these characteristics are vital to interpreting the short- and long-term impacts of the reduction of using conventional tillage on the productivity and hydrology of agricultural soils. This information is also of value in estimating the effect of a reduction in tillage on the sequestration of carbon in agricultural soils. The influence of tillage on bulk density, macro porosity and organic matter content was found to be documented more extensively than the effects on pore size distribution, soil organic matter fractions and their interactions at different soil depths. Many of the reports documenting tillage-induced changes in soil porosity and organic matter were based on measurements at a specific time after initiating the tillage trial. The potential advantages of conservation tillage in organic farming are reduced erosion, greater macro porosity in the soil surface due to larger number of earthworms, more microbial activity and carbon storage, less run-off and leaching of nutrients, reduced fuel use and faster tillage. Conversion from conventional (CT) to no-tillage (NT) resulted in an immediate change in the placement of aboveground crop residue and the reduced fragmentation of the soil matrix may also slow the mineralization of SOC.

A field experiment was conducted at Firozabad region of Iran to study the effect of Effective Microorganisms Activate (EMa), EMa levels on growth, yield, Yield Components and Water Usage Efficiency of two Maize cultivars (Ns640 and Back cross 666). The experiment consisted of 10 treatments which were the combinations between two factors: two cultivars and five EMa levels.Ns640 cultivar significantly exceeded Back cross 666 in more growth characters, yield and its components. The result indicates that EMa increases growth and grain yield and water usage efficiency of Maize.

This paper investigated the influence of cowpea characteristics on cowpea prices in Akure Metropolis of Ondo State, Nigeria, using an analysis of covariance model approach. A total of 104 cowpea sellers were randomly selected from chosen in the markets. Interview schedule with the aid of structural questionnaire was used to collect data from markets: Oja oba, Isinkan, Adedeji, Araromi, and Isolo in the study area. 12% of the cowpea sellers were from Oja-oba, 27.88% from Isinkan, 18.27% from Araromi, 16.35% from Adedeji and 15.38% from Isolo market respectively. 72.12% were female while the rest 27.88% were male. 64.42% of the cowpea sellers sold all the varieties of cowpea in the study area i.e. Peu/Drum, Sokoto white, Mala, Olo and Oloyin. 38.46% of the cowpea sellers sold Peu/Drum for its popularity. 44.23% of them sold Sokoto for its popularity. 30.77% of them sold Mala for customary reasons, 31.73% of them sold Olo for its popularity, 30.77% of them sold Oloyin for its availability and nutritive value. 49.04% of the cowpea sellers said that their customers use the cowpea bought for all it can be used for. From the study, 37.50% of the cowpea sellers said that their customers prefer Oloyin for whole grain cooking because of its colour and flavour, 8.65% of them said that their customers prefer Oloyin for whole grain cooking due to its quick cooking quality. 31.73% of the cowpea sellers said that their customers prefer both Peu/Drum and Sokoto for making fried balls (akara) because of its peeling and binding quality. 32.69% of the cowpea sellers said that their customers prefer both Peu/Drum and Sokoto for steamed cake (moin-moin) for its flavour and texture. The mean prices of peu/drum cowpea, sokoto white cowpea, mala cowpea, olo cowpea and oloyin cowpea are ?362.50, ?263.75, ?296.83, ?304.81, and ?393.85. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) which was used capture price-quality relationship of the type of cowpea purchased by consumers revealed that there is a significant relationship between the number of holes in each of the cowpea varieties and their respective prices in the various markets sampled in the study area. Hence, the numbers of holes appear to be the major determining factors affecting the prices of various cowpea types in the study area.

This study looks at the effect of the sea water is having on the Densu delta wetland. The objective of this work is to assess the hydro- chemical dynamics of the surface water from the Densu delta using hydro chemical parameters, stable isotopes- oxygen-18 and deuterium and also asses the quality of the surface water for purposes like irrigation using SAR, %Sodium and other modules. Samples of surface water were taken for physico-chemical analysis. The samples were analysed for physical and chemical parameters and the stable isotopes (18 O and D2O). The results from the stable isotopes have shown that the quality of the surface water is being affected by slight mixing with sea water. From the SAR calculation, 62% and 38% of the water was within the excellent and good category respectively and none were within the doubtful and unsuitable category respectively. Calculation of % sodium showed that about 5 out of 8 samples have high sodium percent (above 60%) and are not suitable for irrigation purposes as per classification of Eaton 1950. From the Richards diagram, approximately 12.5% fall within good category; 75% in the category of doubtful; 12.5% within unsuitable category. Approximately 50% of the samples were found to be good by RSC index; 37% fall within the doubtful category and 13% unsuitable. A high percentage was within permissible ranges for TDS. The results suggest that generally water samples are suitable for domestic and irrigation purposes under normal temperature and pH condition.

The national water policy of India is not concomitant with its land use pattern. The countries constituting the SAARC recognise trade and economic relationships among the member countries of Pakistan, Bangladesh, Srilanka, Nepal, Bhutan and Maldives but does not attempt at a comprehensive land and water resources policy for the region. But the rivers flowing in the SAARC region are not confined to national boundaries. In a similar manner no such policy exists among the member states of India. Population growth, unchecked urban migration against limited land and water resources has led to piecemeal and short term approaches to management rather than attempting at holistic global solutions in land and water sharing among the member states of India. For instance in Tamilnadu, water starved state, sharing of waters from the 45 rivers from neighbouring Kerala state has not been successful so far. With the result these rivers originating in Kerala flow waste to Arabian sea. One of the major drawbacks occurring in these exercises is the Tamilnadu has so far been concerned at its own interest in procuring water from Kerala rather than attempting to point out the benefits accruing to kerala which has no space to store the water. Research done in this regard reveal that benefits accruing to Kerala state are substantial in comparison with Tamilnadu.

This study was performed to evaluation of salicylic acid and Paclobutrazol application on the growth characteristics of annual sports grass. The experiment was carried out as factorial in a completely randomized design that the first factor was salicylic acid levels (0, 100 and 200 ppm) and the second factor included paclobutrazol at four levels (0, 5, 15 and 30 mg per liter) with 3 replications. At the end of experiment some properties were determined such as RWC, Shoot fresh weight, Shoot dry weight, Root length, Membrane stability index. Totally, Means of all traits increased with increasing levels of salicylic acid from 100 to 200 ppm and highest means of RWC (92%), shoot fresh weight (9.7 grams per 5 cm), shoot dry weight (1.27 grams per 5 cm), root length (24.5 mm) and membrane stability index (84%) were obtained by treatment of 200 ppm. Also, paclobutrazol led to increasing of RWC but it led to reduction in other traits. Therefore, according to obtained results, application of 200 ppm salicylic acid and 30 ppm paclobutrazol recommended for sports grass planting

A study was conducted to study the effect of integration of nitrogen sources on okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) grown in sandy regosols. Nitrogen sources farmyard manure, poultry manure, Amutha Karaisal and urea were applied on equal N basis at 135 kg Nha-1. Organic nitrogen (N) sources were used solely and in combination with urea at 50% N from each. And P2O5 and K2O were applied at the rate of 90 kg ha-1 by triple super phosphate and muriate of potash respectively. There were eight treatments replicated thrice. Among the treatments, yield was superior in 100% N supplied by poultry manure and next was followed by 50% N from farmyard manure + 50% N from Urea. The influence of AmuthaKaraisal was inferior in yield than other manures. There was no significant difference in average length of pod, but there was significant difference in average number and fresh weight of pod.

A field experiment was conducted at KVK, Srinagar during two consecutive Kharif seasons to study the “Effect of integrated nutrient management for Soybean (Glycine max L.) under temperate conditions”. The experiment was laid out with 18 treatment combinations viz., three levels of each of recommended doses of inorganic fertilizers (50, 75 and 100% RD) and organic manures (control, FYM 10 t ha-1 and Dalweed 10 t ha-1) and two levels of biofertilizers (control and dual inoculation with Rhizobium + PSB) in randomised complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that grain and straw yield increased significantly with increase in the recommended inorganic levels. Application of FYM @ 10 t ha-1 showed significantly superior results over other organic treatments. Dual inoculation with Rhizobium and PSB showed significantly superior results over no inoculation. Yield attributing characters viz. 100-seed weight and number of nodules showed significant increase with increasing levels of recommended inorganic fertilizers. Application of 75% recommended inorganic fertilizer level showed highest 100-seed weight over other levels. Among organics, FYM (10 t ha-1) was found superior over Dalweed (10 t ha-1) for yield attributes. Oil and lysine content was found superior with application of 75% recommended inorganic fertilizers over other levels, Protien content increased with increasing levels of recommended inorganic fertilizers. Among organics FYM (10 t ha-1) yielded significantly superior results for seed quality than dalweed (10 t ha-1).

Different concentrations of vermicompost such as 25% (25kg vc: 75 kg red soil), 50% (50kg vc:50 kg red soil), 75% (75kg vc:25 kg red soil), and 100% (100 kg vc) produced by earthworm, Eudrilus eugeniae, were added to red soil in polythene bags. Maize plants (Zea mays L.) were grown on vermicompost-enriched soil for 90 days. The plants were harvested at the end of 90 days and the kernels were collected. In the present investigation the number of kernels was counted; the length, breadth, and circumference of kernels were measured; the weight of kernel and total weight of all kernels were calculated. The maximum kernel number of 598.55/corn and the highest length of 1.71cm/kernel were noticed in the plants cultivated on 75% vermicompost concentration whereas the maximum kernel breadth of 1.40cm/kernel, circumference of 3.07cm/kernel, weight of 0.41 gm/kernel and total weight of all kernels (232.43gm/corn) were noticed in the plants grown on 50% vermicompost concentration. At the same time minimum kernel number of 69.42/corn, low kernel length of 0.80cm/kernel, breadth of 0.60cm/kernel, circumference of 2.02cm/kernel, weight of 0.08gm/kernel and total weight of all kernels (5.55gm/corn) were found in the control plants. The present investigation clearly revealed that the addition of vermicompost to soil greatly enhanced the kernel yield in maize.

Green house experiment was conducted to explore the influence of different concentrations of Vermicompost in root–knot nematode management against Meloidogyne incognita infecting Cluster bean Cyamposis tetragonaloba. Vermicompost fortification treatment resulted in reduced nematode infection and increased growth characteristics such as shoot – root length and shoot – root weight. With the increase of concentration of Vermicompost corresponding increase noticed in growth characteristics of treated plants. Vermicompost fortified plants showed increment in sugar, protein and lipid over untreated control. Increment of these metabolites reflects treated plants were metabolically cope up the infection and promoting excessive plant growth.In vitro studies of hatching trials revealed significant reduction in larval emergence. The percent reduction of larval emergence showed a significant positive correlation with increased concentration of Vermicompost. Vermicompost treatment significantly affects the soil population of nematode which again reflects a dosage dependent phenomenon. Present investigation confirms Vermicompost as an excellent growth promoters and potential prophylactic agent.

The study was conducted to determine the influence of Trichoderma applied alone or in combination with organic fertilizer on the growth and yield of garlic (Allium sativum L.). Four treatments were evaluated: T1 (Recommended Rate of Organic Fertilizer (RROF) at 4.5 t ha-1), T2 (Recommended Rate of Trichoderma (RRTP) at 250 kg ha-1), T3 (½ RROF + ½ RRTP) and T4 (Full RROF + Full RRTP), the experiment was laid out following the Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replication. Results of the study revealed that application of full recommended rate of organic fertilizer (RROF) + full recommended rate of Trichoderma plus (RRTP) significantly influences the plant height of garlic at 30 DAP (38.95 cm) and at harvest (41.09 cm), bulb diameter (28.94 mm), number of bulb per kilogram (90.50) and the yield obtained per hectare (18.0t/ha). Based from this result, combination of full recommended rate of organic fertilizer and Trichoderma is effective source of nutrients for garlic production under pure organic cultivation.

The field experiment on the influence of three legumes (groundnut, cowpea and soybean) on the agricultural yield and monetary income of an association of six crops (cassava, plantain, sweet potato, maize, rice and/or groundnut, cowpea, soybean), was conducted during two successive cropping seasons in a forest region of the DRC (Bengamisa). The results show that: - The crop association with cowpea numerically improved the agricultural yield of the components, the overall agricultural yield of the association and induced a better overall LER compared to the association with groundnut and soybean. - The crop association with groundnut, on the other hand, yielded a much higher gross margin of $2645.4/Ha, compared to the gross margin achieved by the association with cowpea ($1872.4/Ha) and that with soybean ($1847.6/Ha). - In the crop associations in this environment, cowpea is considered to be a factor in improving crop yields, while groundnuts are considered to be a factor in improving cash income.

This work examined the influence of school farm on the learning of Agricultural Science in senior secondary schools in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. The study utilized a descriptive survey research design with random sampling techniques. Six public senior secondary schools were randomly selected from the twelve schools in Ikwuano and then one hundred and twenty (120) agricultural science students were randomly selected from the six schools sampled. (20 agricultural science students from each school sampled). Two research questions and one null hypothesis guided the study. Instrument for data collection was a 10-item structured questions. The method for data analysis were descriptive statistics (mean, pool mean and standard deviation) for answering the two research questions. z-test was used to analyze the formulated null hypothesis. The findings of the study are that school farm has a positive influence on the learning of Agricultural science in senior secondary schools in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State. Based on these findings, it was recommended among others that government and even the school management should always ensure the establishment of a functional school farm in schools and both the agricultural science teachers and the students on their own should always ensure proper management and utilization of the school farm. More so, prices and awards should always be given to the best agricultural science students yearly in order to encourage and motivate others.

This work highlights the interactions between fungus-growing termites (Isoptera, Termitidae), and mound building components. As major eco-engineers in tropical ecosystems, termites create biogenic structures with galleries, sheeting’s, fungus-comb chambers where the exosymbiotic interaction between termites and the fungus is well documented. Odontotermes spp. a fungus cultivator build mounds of different dimension that strongly influence the physical and chemical properties of soils there by clay mineralogy and SOM gets altered. In dry land ecosystems, termite mounds are often hotspots of primary production.

ABSTRACT Suitability of growing media or substrates is essential for production of quality seedlings for transplant. It directly affects the development and later maintenance of the extensive functional system. A good growing medium would provide sufficient anchorage of support to plant, serves a reservoir for nutrient and water, allow oxygen diffusion to the root and permit gaseous exchange between the root and atmosphere outside the root substrate. In the present of study different growth media were used to germinate the seed of white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) under a controlled growth chamber to identify which among the tried media is best for yam seed. The growth media tested were Cocopeat, Peat pellet, Carbonized rice husk, Top soil, Cocopeat + Top soil and Carbonized rice husk + Top soil. Each treatment was measured into a nursery seedling basket, arranged in randomized complete block design, and replicated four times. Daily minimum and maximum Temperature and Relative humidity records were recorded throughout the experiment. At 60 and 90 days after seed sowing, growth response parameters were recorded and were subjected to analysis of variance and treatment means were separated using least significant difference at 5% probability level. Highest germination of 71.65 and 88.65% at 60 and 90 days after sowing respectively were recorded from yam seed planted in Cocopeat and the same trend was observed in respect of growth response parameters observed. Top soil had the least influence as growth medium, which was not significantly different from response from its mixture with other growth media.

Grape is one of the most delicious, refreshing and nourishing fruits. One of the most important cultivars of grape, cv. Perlette is being grown extensively in northern India owing to its attractive colour, heavy bearing and good fruit quality. However, more thrust is to be laid on further improvement of the fruit quality. In this report we demonstrate the effect of girdling, thinning and application of GA3 on fruit quality and shelf life of grape. Girdling + 40 ppm of GA3 proved most effective in increasing the quality in terms of total soluble solids (TSS) (17.47 %), total sugar (8.94 %) reducing sugar (10.35 %), TSS/acid ratio (27.24 %) and resulted in decrease in acidity (24.59 %). During storage at room temperature minimum physiological loss in weight (9.42 %) was observed after three days of storage. The present study therefore suggests that girdling and growth regulator application is a desirable practice to enhance berry ripening and fruit quality in grape cv. Perlette.

Thirty-two male male Large White weanling pigs of 8-9 weeks of age averaging 7.50 + 0.36kg were used to evaluate the effect of dietary copper on fertility of pubertal sows. The animals were randomly assigned in a Completely Randomized Design experiment to 4 diets containing 0, 100, 200 and 300ppm Cu/kg constituting the control(diet 1), diets 2, 3 and 4 respectively, in a 6-month feeding trial such that each treatment had 8 animals. The feeding trial was divided into 3 physiological phases [weanling (starter), pre-pubertal (grower) and pubertal (finisher)]. At the end of the feeding trial, 4 treated boars selected at random from each treatment were mated to 8 gilts (i.e. 1 boar to 2 gilts) following the gilts’ synchronization to determine the fertility rate of the boars. The mated gilts were sacrificed at the end of the 1st trimester and their uteri cut open longitudinally to check for conception, count the number of embryos therein and the embryo survival rate determined. The results showed significant (p<0.05) difference on fertility parameters assessed except foetal crown-rump length and litter weight. The conception rate tended to be constant across the treatment except for treatment 3 with 75%. The study revealed that male weanling pigs for breeding can be fed dietary Cu of between 100-300ppm for optimum reproductive performance.

The reckless release of cassava effluent into the environment has posed diverse environmental challenges. Its effects on phytotoxicity, nutrient quality and stability on compost were assessed under windrow composting method. There were two carbon (Rice bran and Sawdust) and nitrogen (Poultry manure and Cow dung) sources. Each of the carbon and nitrogenous feedstock were combined in ratio 1:3 with or without cassava effluent applied at 15 litres per pile. There were two replications. Ambient temperature and those of the composting piles were taken daily. Turning and moisture content were monitored. At compost maturity, composite compost samples were subjected to proximate analysis and phytotoxicity assessment by raising cowpea seedling in the compost extracts in the dark for 72 hours. There were four compost types and two compost extract concentration levels including 50 and 100 %. Two checks including distilled water and raw cassava effluent were considered for comparison. There were two replications laid out in completely randomized design. Data assessed showed that cassava effluent significantly reduced Mn and Fe concentrations in the compost. It further reduced number of days to attain stability by 9 and 19 days in rice bran and sawdust based compost respectively. It also increased the nitrogen content and alkalinity in the compost. Feedstock decomposition rate was increased by 54% in sawdust based compost. Its ability to greatly improve germination index of cowpea with values above the 100 % from distilled water growing medium at both concentrations levels showed the possibility of cassava effluent under aerobic composting condition to release growth stimulating substances into the growing medium.

Macabo (Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schott.) May be a solution to the problems of hunger, inadequacy and food insecurity faced by several developing countries like DR Congo, because it is adapted to tropical equatorial and tropical climates. However, its large-scale cultivation encounters a problem of lack of propagating material in quality and quantity sufficient for the extension of the culture related to its mode of multiplication and growth. Indeed, the pronounced dominance of the terminal bud inhibits the development of lateral buds. To try to solve this problem, a study was carried out by experimenting the PIF method in Kisangani. It consisted in evaluating the rejecting power of X. sagittifolium bulbs planted on three different substrates, notably sawdust, charcoal (bio-char) and rice husks. The parameters observed were respectively the recovery rates of the mother bulbs, the number of offspring formed and weaned. The results obtained showed that: 1. The recovery rate of mother bulbs was 100% irrespective of the treatment; 2. After 24 weaning, a 9.6 cm diameter bulb produced 32 and 34 3 cm diameter shoots respectively for sawdust and bio-char, and 32 x 2.9 cm diameter shoots with bulb 8.8 cm in diameter for rice balls. These numbers of offspring do not differ statistically; 3. There is a positive correlation between the size of mother bulbs and the number of offspring formed (Y = -32,057 + 6,926X with r = 0,521) and secondly between the size of mother bulbs and the vigor of the offspring formed (Y = 1,300 + 0,182X with r = 0,560). These results show that the number of offspring formed increases with the size of the mother bulbs and their vigor also depends on it.

Present study revealed that thermophile fungal species richness on different substrate in different temperature gradients like room, 35,45,55,650C.Total 23 fungal species were found from six different organic substrate. Among six substrates, vermiompost (57) and Farm Yard Manure (FYM) (52) were recorded highest species richness and % incidence while less in ash (14). Among isolated thermophilic fungi, Aspergillus species found abundant in all the substrate and temperature ranges while poor incidence in case of Trichoderma harzianum, Rhizoctonia, Geotrichum, Alternaria species, Aspergillus tamari and Peniillium cinnamon. Among the thermophiles Aspergillus niger and A. flavus were found on all the substrates itself act as thermotolerent. Every temperature gradient showed the growth incidence in all substrate but room temp and 350C showed richness of fungal incidence. Even some species showed the growth on some substrate at higher temp (65^•C) in some extent.

As we know that organic farming is the need of hour to feed the present population without eroding the health of soil and environment also to give sustainable agriculture this is one of best method for farming that’s why we should go for Organic Farming.

It is a perennial softwood tree with timber of low quality, but which for centuries has been advocated for traditional medicinal and industrial uses Moringa Oleifera is an ideal plant to promote at the household level because it is extremely resilient to harsh growing environments, including drought, poor soil quality and many pests and diseases. It is a complete food in itself. Everything about the moringa oleifera is nutritious. You can eat the cooked leaves, shoots, pulp and seeds. This study seeks to determine the profitability of Moringa oleifera production with a particular reference to the socio economic characteristics of the farmers in the study area. The area covered by this study is Isokan Local Government Area of Osun state. Data for this study were collected from primary source. primary data were colleted using structured questionnaires. A combination of analytical tools were employed. They include descriptive statistics such has mean. frequency and distribution, percentages, budgetary analysis and Tobit model. This study therefore recommends that more technologically improved methods of processing, packaging and preservations should be adopted and encouraged for economic efficiency.

This study investigated the effects of migration on agricultural productivity in Osun State, with a view to compare the socioeconomic characteristics and farm-level efficiency of migrant and indigenous farmers in the State. A multistage sampling procedure was used to select a total of 360 arable crops farmers. Data were collected of farmers’ socio-economic characteristics, migration indices as well as items of costs and returns to production. Using descriptive statistics, stochastic frontier analysis (SFA) and data envelopment analysis (DEA), the study revealed that there were no significant differences among the socioeconomic characteristics of migrant and indigenous farmers. The result further showed that indigenous farmers were more efficient (SFA-73.40%; DEA-42.6%) than the migrant farmers (SFA-60.20%; DEA-35.8%) and that the observed differences in the level of efficiencies among the two groups were statistically significant (p<0.05). It was concluded that indigenous farmers were more efficient than the migrant farmers in the study area.

For thirty years the cultivation of cotton has become very widespread in Benin. This has led to a sprawl of agricultural land and a significant increase in the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides and by extension, the pollution of the water resource in many parts of the country. In the north, high levels of nitrogen components are measured in the waters of the basin of Sota. Indeed the average value of 181mg / L measured for nitrate levels exceeding that permitted by the standards of quality of drinking water in the Republic of Benin. This study contributes to the knowledge of the impacts of agricultural activities on water resource in the basin of Sota in Benin.

Gypsum, pressmud, farm yard manure, ETP sludge were tried to ameliorate the textile and dye effluent polluted soil habitat, using sunflower (CO4) as a test crop. The sludge along with effluent irrigation added considerable quantities of cations (calcium, magnesium and sodium) to the soil system. Application of pressmud @ 5 t ha-1 along with 100 per cent GR + NPK reduced the soil ESP by 44.96 per cent. The heavy metal content were also reduced due to addition of pressmud. Higher microbial population was also observed under effluent irrigation than well water. Application of 100 per cent GR + pressmud @ 5 t ha-1 + NPK under effluent irrigation increased the crop growth, yield attributes (head diameter, head weight, seed test weight) and yield of sunflower in effluent polluted soil habitat. The yield under pressmud amended plots was 36 per cent higher over control. Reclamation and restoration of textile dye effluent polluted soil habitat is possible by leaching the soil with 100 per cent GR followed by application of pressmud @ 5 t ha-1 and recommended NPK.

ABSTRACT The experiment was conducted during the growth season of 2013- 2014 autumn and spring at the desert of Najaf Governorate of plant cucumbers Toshika. The aim was to study the effect of soil mulches and garlic extract spray on the growth of cucumbers grown in a greenhouse. The experiment included 16 treatment interaction between soil mulches such as (without mulches , black polyethylene, transparent polyethylene and rice residues) and garlic extract spray at different rates (0.0 , 2.5 , 5.0, and 7.5 ml. L-1) on vegetative growth plants were sprayed. Then spray was adopted at two weeks internals that means two times plant were sprayed during the growing season. Design of the study was split Plot Design within Randomized Complete Block Design with three replicate. The means were compared at the probability of 0.05 by least Significant Differences (LSD). Results showed as follow. Plants grown under black polyethylene were higher in most vegetative growth Characteristics (leaves number , leaf dry matter percentage and leaf contents of nitrogen) which is Produced the highest values of the vegetative growth characteristics season as compared with control treatment (spray with distilled water only). Interaction effects between soil mulches and garlic extract spray were significant on studying vegetative growth characteristics for the two seasons. The interaction of black polyethylene with 5 ml.L-1 gave the highest means of vegetative growth as compared with the interaction of control that gave the least means for the above studied characteristics of the first and second season.

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif, 2013-14 at Main Agricultural Research Station to study the impact of intercropping on sucking pests and their natural enemies in Bt cotton. The results showed that the sucking pests were significantly lower on cotton under intercropping system than sole crop. Among the different intercrops, cotton intercropped with cowpea (1:2) was the best intercropping system which recorded less incidence of leafhopper (2.75/3 leaves), thrips (4.66/leaves) and whitefly (1.03/3 leaves) with more number of natural enemies followed by the cotton intercropped with coriander (1:2) and greengram (1:2). However, cotton + beans was significantly superior in recording the highest total yield (20.46 q/ha) followed by cotton + okra (16.86 q/ha) and cotton + cowpea (16.42 q/ha).

Abstract: The present field study was conducted to find out the effect of different planting dates during rabi season from November to February in 2012-13 and 2013-14, respectively on the infection of various viral diseases caused by Aphids, Myzus persicae (Sulzer) and Aphis gossypii Glover and white fly, Bemisia tabaci Genn on potato at Adisaptagram Block Seed Farm, Hooghly, West Bengal. The four types of viral diseases, viz. mild mosaic, severe mosaic, leaf roll and apical leaf curl diseases were found to infect the potato crop in this locality. The incidence of viral diseases on potato crop was observed in between first and third week of January and then their infection was gradually increased up to full maturity of the crop. The percentage of viral disease infection was higher in late planted and harvested crop compared to those planted and harvested early. Per cent viral disease incidence was found maximum in P5 (26.25-35.50%), followed by P4 (28.00-30.75%), P3 (26.00-29.00%), P2 (24.00-25.50%) and P1 (17.75-18.00%) respectively. The per cent leaf roll disease incidence (9.00-20.75%) outnumbered the other viral diseases and maximum percentage of PLRV infection was found during later stage of the crop grown in all the five planting dates. The incidence of mild mosaic was slightly higher (4.00-8.00%) than the incidence of severe mosaic (2.50-5.50%) and it was mainly confined in early to middle phase of crop growth. The incidence of apical leaf curl disease was least and its infection was always higher in later planted crops. The maximum yield of potato tuber was found in P2, followed by P1, P3 and P5 respectively.

Pot culture experiment was conducted to study the impact of organic and inorganic phosphorus source on major and micronutrient availability for main and residual crop. Organic and inorganic Phosphorus sources (farmyard manure, poultry manure, vermicompost, sewage sludge and single superphosphate), to supply 34 kg P2O5 ha-1, were used as treatments with no phosphorus source as control. These six treatments replicated four times, making a total of 24 pots. In main groundnut crop all the phosphorus sources improved soil organic carbon and major and micronutrient contents. Among them poultry manure had the greatest influence on the availability of phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium and sulphur. In the residual sunflower crop phosphorus source improved the nutrient availability and soil organic carbon content. Among them, poultry manure registered higher soil available nitrogen and phosphorus content and sewage sludge treatment increased potassium and sulphur content. Residual iron, zinc and copper content was higher and comparable in sewage sludge and farmyard manure treatment. And residual manganese content was higher in single super phosphate treatment.

Desertification is the degradation of land in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. It is caused primarily by human activities and climatic variations, It occurs because dry land ecosystems are extremely vulnerable to over exploitation and inappropriate use. Land degradation is a major obstacle militating sustainable use of land resources for agriculture. The relative role of climate, drought and human impact was discussed. This menace which manifested in the forms of soil erosion, desertification, salting of river and ponds, acidification and Stalinization, loss of soil fauna and flora e.t.c. is seriously militating productive parts of the soil, Poverty, political instability, deforestation over grazing and bad irrigation practices also undermine the land's fertility, thus, resulted in a negative effect on the socio-economic status of the inhabitants. These consequences can be properly addressed through the establishment of shelterbelts and woodlots, improvement of agricultural productivity, creation of awareness of the drought-hazard through provision of necessary resources for meteorological services in the area as well as legislation against indiscriminate felling of trees.

The occurrence of Diaretiellarapaeparasitizing Lipaphiserysimiin Brassica alba,Brassica campestris cv. BSH-1, Brassica carrinata,Brassica nigra,Erucasativa cv. T-27, BrassicajunceaL. cv. Varuna,YST-151 and GSC-6 were evaluated.The correlation coefficients between aphid population and D. rapaeand its hosts on different Brassica species with different abiotic factors revealed contradictory results.Except for a few instances the weather parameters showed low order of associations with L. erysimiand its parasitism byDiaeretiellarapae. Thus, the ecologicalfactors exhibited little impact on the population build- up of mustard aphidand its parasitism byDiaeretiellarapaeon different species of Brassica.Brassicanigraharboured relatively higher populations of the aphid While,B. carrinataand Taramina,T-27 have lower aphid population.

A study was conducted to determine the content and distribution of total 0.1M HCl and diethylene triamine penta acetic acid (DTPA) extractable zinc (Zn) in the genetic horizons of six (6) profiles formed from Chanockite parent rock in Ekiti State. The content of Total Zn for all the soils varied from 28 to 84mg/kg. Most of the soils had the highest concentration of total Zn in the surface horizons. There was a strong association between total Zn and organic carbon. Available Zn determined with 0.1M HCL extractable was higher than DTPA-extractable Zn. The values from the two extractants show that available Zn is clearly deficient. There would be need for Zn application to the soils for successful and profitable crop production.

The Manya Krobo area is bounded in the east by Lake Volta which resulted after the construction of the Akosombo dam since 1965. The groundwater quality of 25 samples in the study area was evaluated for its suitability for drinking and irrigation purposes by estimating pH, EC, TDS, hardness and alkalinity besides major ions, isotopes, SAR, % Na, RSC, RSBC, chlorinity index, SSP, non-carbonate hardness, Potential Salinity, Permeability Index, Magnesium hazard and Index of Base Exchange. The percentage sodium, sodium absorption (SAR), and residual sodium carbonate (RSC) indices show that the groundwaters are generally suitable for irrigation purposes. Negative Index of Base Exchange indicates the chloro-alkaline disequilibrium in the study area and all the water samples fall in the rock dominance field based on Gibbs’ ratio. Based on total hardness, the groundwater in the area is soft. Na-K-HCO3-Cl (48%), Na-HCO3 (40%), and Na-Cl (12%) water types were delineated from the area. Stable isotope analysis of water samples indicates meteoric origin of recharge.

The magnitude of heterosis in fifty crosses (F1s) made by crossing five sudan grass pollinators with ten cytoplasmic male sterile lines in a line x tester mating design in forage sorghum. Based on per se performance and heterotic response eleven crosses for resistance to shoot fly infestation over better parent and six crosses for total soluble solid, SP 55609 A x PC 8 for protein per cent, 2219 A x PC 8, 2219 A x CSV 15, MR 750 A2 x CSV 15 for HCN content and ICSA 469 x PC 5 for IVDMD per cent were appeared best cross combinations for all three kinds of heterosis and could be used for commercial exploitation of good quality forage sorghum after multilocation testing.

This paper analysed cowpea markets and consumers’ preferences in Ogbomoso metropolis using a household hedonic approach. 60 cowpea sellers were selected by a purposive random sampling technique in four major markets from Ogbomoso North (Sabo market and New Waso market) and Ogbomoso South (Arada market and Caretaker market) Local Government Areas of Oyo State, Nigeria. 50% of the cowpea sellers were male and female respectively. 96.67% of them sell more than one varieties. 96.67% of respondents sell a combination of varieties i.e. Peu/Drum, Sokoto, Mala, Olo and Oloyin for their nutritive value, popularity and availability which may be used for boiled whole grain cooking, fried cowpea balls (akara), and steamed cowpea cake (moin-moin). Over 50% of respondents (cowpea marketers) use storage chemical which reduces the attack of weevils to be able to sell cowpea that has no or few numbers of bruchid holes. The mean prices of peu/drum cowpea, sokoto cowpea, mala cowpea, olo cowpea and oloyin cowpea are ?359.67, ?291.83, ?324.00, ?376.00, and ?394.17. The analysis of covariance (ANCOVA) which was used capture price-quality relationship of the type of cowpea purchased by consumers revealed that there is a significant relationship between the number of holes in each of the cowpea varieties and their respective prices in the various markets sampled in the study area. Hence, the numbers of holes appear to be the major determining factors affecting the prices of various cowpea types in the study area.

An experiment was conducted with One hundred and five (105) point-of-lay Isa brown breed at 18 weeks and twenty-one (21) cocks at 25 weeks to assess the haematology and serum biochemistry of laying birds fed with graded levels of Fumonisin with or without vitamin C. The birds (layers) were assigned to Seven (7) dietary treatments of 15 birds each at three (3) birds per replicate. The treatments were classified according to inclusion level of Fumonisin B1 and Vitamin C. Treatment A served as the control, B (10 mg/kg of FB1), C (20 mg/kg of FB1), D (30 mg/kg of FB1), E (10 mg/kg of FB1 + Vitamin C), F (20 mg/kg of FB1 + Vitamin C), and G (30mg/kg of FB1 + Vitamin C). Significant differences were observed in PCV, Hb, WBC and Eos for levels of FB1 inclusion. Glucose and AST, showed significant differences (P<0.05) in levels of inclusion of FB1 in the diets. Meanwhile, the result shows that Vitamin C can effectively ameliorated the toxic effect of the FB1.

This study aimed to determine the haematological values as well as the phenotypic correlation among the parameters of haematology. One hundred and twenty (120) Japanese quails were raised on a deep litter system. Two experimental diets (starter diet and layers diet) were given to the birds. Blood samples were taken from the birds at six (6) weeks for haematological analysis. According to the result obtained, sex did not have any significant (P> 0.05) effect on any of the haematological parameter. Meanwhile, it was also observed that increment in body weight was found supportive of the haematological parameters.

A field experiment was conducted at Gwalior in M.P. during the Rabi season of 2010 to study the Growth, Productivity and Economics of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. Capitata L.)in Gird Zone as influenced by different levels of Zinc and Sulphur levels. Results revealed that growth parameters like plant height, plant spread and number of leaves per plant at all crop growth stages (except 20 DAT), yield attributing characters, length and diameter of head and weight per head, cabbage yield per hectare net return and benefit cost ratio increased with increasing levels of sulphur from 20 to 80 kg/ha and zinc from 2 to 8 kg/ha. The crop responded only upto 60 kg S/ha and 6 kg Zn/ha.

Different parts of Moringa oleifera shoot are reportedly useful for nutrition, medicine, water purification and as raw material for the industry. It is however hypothesized that the growth and mineral composition of Moringa could be affected by the medium in which it is growing. Consequently, a factorial experiment involving three pre-determined soil depths of 0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm at four soil water levels: 100, 75, 50 and 25% Field Moisture Capacity (FMC ) was conducted in Ibadan, South western Nigeria, to investigate the effect of soil depth and water stress on the growth and mineral composition of Moringa shoot. The total N, C, P, K, Mg and Ca contained in the soil samples collected from the three soil depths were in the order of 0-15>15-30>30-45 cm. As a result, Moringa plants produced in the surface soil (0-15 cm) was superior in height; stem girth, number of leaves and dry matter yield irrespective of water- stress condition. Reduction in FMC from 100 to 50% did not significantly affect growth performance. Surface soil produced stems and leaves richer in mineral composition (Ca, Mg, K, Fe, Cu and Zn) than subsoil. Therefore, growing moringa on a fertile-soil is better for animal health.

Quail is a robust small bodied and easy to keep the bird. They can adapt to any climatic condition. Therefore the growth performance and carcass characteristics of this bird was determined using One hundred and twenty (120) Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were raised on a deep litter system. Two experimental diets (starter diet and layer diet) were given to the birds. The average weight and performance characteristics of the birds were determined. Carcass characteristics of selected birds (five males and five females) were slaughtered when the birds reach six (6) weeks of age. According to the results obtained, sex did not have any significant (P>0.05) effect on the performance characteristic. Also, most of the parameters of the carcass characteristic were not influenced (P>0.05) by sex. Age was found to have significant (P<0.05) effect on the performance characteristics. It was discovered that most of the body measurements were good estimators of each other because of the positive phenotypic correlations existing among them. The increment in body weight was found supportive of the haematological parameter.

Rapid population growth in a country like India is threatening the environment through expansion and intensification of agriculture, uncontrolled growth of urbanization and industrialization, and destruction of natural habitats. The present paper is an attempt to study the population change and its impacts on land, forest and water and energy resources. Rapid population growth plays an important role in declining per capita agricultural land, forest and water resources. The analysis reveals that outcomes of high population growth rates are increasing population density and number of people below poverty line. Population pressure contributes to land degradation and soil erosion, thus affecting productive resource base of the economy. The increasing population numbers and growing affluence have resulted in rapid growth of energy production and consumption in India. The environmental effects like ground water and surface water contamination; air pollution and global warming are of growing concern owing to increasing consumption levels. The paper concludes with some policy reflections and emphasizes the potential importance of natural resources.

Field trial was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2009 and 2010 to study the effects of nitrogen and intra row spacing on the growth and yield of sesame. The experiment consisted of three levels of nitrogen in the form of urea (0, 50, and 100 kg N ha-1) and three intra row spacing (7.5, 15 and 22.5cm). The nine treatment combinations were laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Plant height, leaf area index, number of branches per plant, total dry matter per plant and days to 50% flowering were optimized at 100 kg N ha-1 and 22.5cm intra row spacing. Numbers of capsules per plant, capsule weight per plant, grain yield per plant and grain yield per hectare were optimized at 50 kg ha-1 of nitrogen. Maximum number capsules per plant, capsule weight per plant, grain yield per plant were recorded at 22.5cm intra row spacing while, maximum grain yield per hectare was recorded at 15cm intra row spacing. Application of 50 kg N ha-1 and planting at 15cm intra row spacing is therefore recommended for higher sesame yield in this area.

Most organic vegetable farmers in Central Luzon apply the required amount of organic fertilizers only once during planting. Hence, nutrient requirement of vegetables during vegetative or reproductive stages are no longer available. This condition seriously affects the growth and development of vegetables and subsequently affecting the yield performance that may result to low yield. In order to reduce the effect of nutrient deficiency on organic vegetable production particularly on green pepper, the research aimed to: a) establish frequency of organic fertilizer application employing split application; and b) determine the yield performance and net return based on the different treatments used. The research was conducted for two consecutive dry seasons (2014 and 2015) under full organic system. Twice application of the recommended rate of organic fertilizer obtained the highest yield of 4.21 t/ha while thrice application of the recommended rate of organic fertilizer obtained the second highest with 4.14 t/ha. Basal application obtained the lowest yield of 3.89 t/ha during the first trial. Second trial of the study showed that comparable yield was obtained by twice application and thrice application with 5.03 t/ha and 5.02 t/ha, respectively. Basal application consistently produced the lowest yield. Cost and return analysis of 1000 m2 green pepper following the different treatments evaluated showed that the highest net income during the first trial was obtained from twice application of the recommended rate of organic fertilizer with PhP7,740.00 net income with an ROE of 85.05% which was lower than the ROE of the basal application with 89.76%. Lower net income was obtained from basal application of organic fertilizer due to lower yield obtained. Second trial showed that the highest net income was obtained from two split application of the recommended rate of organic fertilizer with PhP11,020.00 registering an ROE of 121.09%, the highest among the three treatments evaluated.