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Analysis of Effluent Discharge in to Natural Forest in Bangladesh
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
329-340
Received:
30 July 2014
Accepted:
6 August 2014
Published:
20 September 2014
Abstract: Natural forest resources like Sundarbans mangroves in Asia including Bangladesh, India, and East Africa previously contained a much fuller range of species (Seidensticker, and Hai, 1983; Khan, 1997). In the Southeast Asian region, species diversity of mangroves was previously much higher, where approximately two-thirds of all species and 70% of the major vegetation types with 15% of terrestrial species in the Bangladesh-India-Malayan realm have already been destroyed (Ellison, 1998, 2000). Despite this designation, this natural forest resources (Sundarbans) in Bangladesh has been facing tremendous problems, including that of dieback (top-dying), shrimp farming, human destructions, deforestations, illicit fellings, miss-management of the main tree species (Heritiera fomes) which is affecting millions of trees (Awal, 2007). The cause of this dieback is still not well understood unknown. The present work has investigated one of the possible factors that might be causing this top-dying, namely the concentrations of various chemical elements present in the sediments, particularly heavy metals, though other chemical parameters such as the pH, salinity, moisture content of the sediment and nutrient status were also assessed. A questionnaire survey was conducted among different groups of people inside and outside of Sundarbans to explore local perceptions as to the possible causes of top dying. This confirmed the increase in top-dying prevalence (Awal, 2007). Despite various hypotheses as to the causes of this top-dying, the underlying causes are still not well understood. The present work has explored some of the possible factors involved, focusing particularly on the relationship between the amount of top-dying in different places and the concentrations of a number of chemical elements present in the soil and water, in order to test the hypothesis that chemical pollution might be responsible. Other factors such as the pH, salinity and nutrient status were also assessed. The vegetation structure was assessed in terms of tree height, bole diameter, species present, and regeneration status; and the intensity of top-dying within the plots was recorded on a rank scale. Most of the elements studied had no significant correlation with the top dying of Heritiera fomes. However, Sn, Exchangeable K, and soil pH were significantly related, and three elements, namely Pb, Zn, Ni, were also close to significance. Sn concentration is negatively associated with top dying. Soil pH varied significantly in the different plots. Exchangeable K was positively associated with the tree diameter whether the top dying was severe or mild (Awal, 2007).
Abstract: Natural forest resources like Sundarbans mangroves in Asia including Bangladesh, India, and East Africa previously contained a much fuller range of species (Seidensticker, and Hai, 1983; Khan, 1997). In the Southeast Asian region, species diversity of mangroves was previously much higher, where approximately two-thirds of all species and 70% of the...
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Virtual Water and Food Security in Tunisian Semi-Arid Region
Lamia Lajili-Ghezal,
Talel Stambouli,
Marwa Weslati,
Asma Souissi
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
341-345
Received:
17 August 2014
Accepted:
15 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: To confront water scarcity and support food security, the concept of virtual water is used. As defined by Allan (1997) virtual water is “the water embedded in key water-intensive commodities such as wheat” or “the water required for the production of commodities”. The importance of this concept is related to its potential contribution for saving water, especially in water short regions like Tunisia. This research study tries to evaluate the strategic importance of polluted or gray water, which is a component of virtual water. Reduction of virtual water for strategic agricultural products can be obtained by the gray water reduction. The latter is defined as “water required diluting polluted water to reach the normalized quality, different with countries”. Water pollution is especially related to use of chemical products (fertilizers, pesticides, etc.) for some crops like vegetables. Besides having a lower opportunity cost, the use of green water for crop production has generally less negative environmental externalities than the use of blue water (irrigation with water abstracted from ground or surface water systems). Tunisia exports some crops and gray water volumes in exports have rarely been estimated. Thus, estimation of gray water plays a role in ensuring water and water-dependent food security and avoiding further potential damage to the water environments in both importing and exporting countries. In this context, Tunisian semi-arid region is chosen because the presence of a long period of dry and shiny, occurring after a cold and rainy one, useful for vegetables crops and family food security. The aim of this study is to present: Methodologies which can be used to reduce virtual water for some strategic vegetables crops in Tunisian semi-arid region, based on irrigation techniques improvements and the control of runoff and leaching water; Resources management practices that can be used to improve family income, especially women and children and target food security.
Abstract: To confront water scarcity and support food security, the concept of virtual water is used. As defined by Allan (1997) virtual water is “the water embedded in key water-intensive commodities such as wheat” or “the water required for the production of commodities”. The importance of this concept is related to its potential contribution for saving wa...
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The Efficacy of Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus Isolates in the Control of Chickpea Wilt Pathogens
Hanan Ibrahim Mudawi,
Mohamed Osman Idris
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
346-351
Received:
30 August 2014
Accepted:
15 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: Dual experiments were carried out in 2007 at the laboratories of the National Center of Research, to test the antagonistic efficacy of three Trichoderma spp and 23 Bacillus isolates, for the control of chickpea wilt and root- rot pathogens: Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and F. solani adopting CRD. Trichoderma harzianum was found highly antagonistic compared to Trichoderma viride isolates as it inhibited the mycelial growth of F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and F. solani by 85.29% and 86.21% after 12 days of in-vitro incubation, whereas T. viride (isolate Tv1) gave an inhibition percentage of 81.88% and 76.64%. Antagonistic hyphae of T. harzianum showed parasitic behavior against Fusarium spp. The parasite reached and recognized F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris by coiling around the hyphae of the pathogen and disintegrating the hyphae and spores. Only 17 out of 23 Bacillus isolates from 130 colonies of bacteria screened showed significantly antagonistic properties against wilt pathogens. Only B3, B16, B2, B15and B20 proved to be the most effective among the rest of isolates and were considered strongly antagonistic against F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and F. solani in-vitro, with an inhibition percentage range of 57.57% - 64.65%. The management of Chickpea root/rot wilt complex disease incited by F. oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and F. solani could be achieved successively by the use of bioagents derived from various fungal and bacterial isolates.
Abstract: Dual experiments were carried out in 2007 at the laboratories of the National Center of Research, to test the antagonistic efficacy of three Trichoderma spp and 23 Bacillus isolates, for the control of chickpea wilt and root- rot pathogens: Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. ciceris and F. solani adopting CRD. Trichoderma harzianum was found highly antagoni...
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Human-Wildlife Conflicts: Case Study in Wondo Genet District, Southern Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
352-362
Received:
15 September 2014
Accepted:
24 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to identify the type of human- wildlife conflicts and wild mammals that cause the conflict, determine the extent of damage and to provide a better understanding of the causes of human-wildlife conflict in Wondo Genet district. The study was carried out from December 2013 to June 2013. Four sample areas were selected to collect data on human-wildlife conflict; Gotu, Wosha Soyoma and Wethera Kechema villages and Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources. Data were collected using questionnaires, one to one interviews, observations and cross checking of crop loss using quadrants in selected crop lands, reviewing of literature, and was later analyzed using statistical package for social scientists (SPSS). In order to achieve the objectives of the study, the target population comprised the households living in sampled areas, local administrators and staffs who lived within Wondo Genet College of Forestry and Natural Resources. The study established that crop damages, livestock killing, human disruption and property destruction were some of the mostly reported damages. The results of the study further indicated that animal species most involved in HWC were warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), bush pig (Potamochoerus larvatus), vervet monkey (Chlorocebus pygerythrus), Olive baboon (Papio anubis), porcupine (Hystrix cristata), Giant mole rat (Tachyoryctes macrocephalus) and African civet (Civettictis civetta). They were involved mostly in crop raiding/ damage. Most raided crops were maize (Zea mays), sugar cane (Saccharum africanum) and Enset (Ensete ventricosum). Over 75% of the population of Wondo Genet district was affected by crop raiders. Therefore, conservation education is paramount, coherent land use plans should be emphasized to determine where certain crops can be grown.
Abstract: The purpose of this research was to identify the type of human- wildlife conflicts and wild mammals that cause the conflict, determine the extent of damage and to provide a better understanding of the causes of human-wildlife conflict in Wondo Genet district. The study was carried out from December 2013 to June 2013. Four sample areas were selected...
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Recent Increased Incidences of Potato Late Blight on the Jos Plateau: A Case for Intercropping
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
363-367
Received:
10 September 2014
Accepted:
26 September 2014
Published:
30 September 2014
Abstract: Potato cultivation on the Jos Plateau is a multi-Billion Naira enterprise which is on the very brink of collapse due to upsurge in the incidences and severity of late blight a disease caused by Phytophtora infestans (Mont) DeBary. This paper highlighted the scope of the spread of this scourge by assessing the magnitude of loses due to the disease in four zones of the potato growing region of the Jos Plateau- Bokkos, Ampang, Heipang and Vwang. The production parameters studied were the land area under potato, average yield, proportion of potato produced through sole/mono cropping, severity of the late blight epidemic and the level of adaptation of the new varieties imported from Europe the Americas and Australia. The results revealed that Bokkos was the most important potato growing area in terms of total land area, adoption of new planting materials, and sole/mono cropping system of production. The incidences and severity of the potato late blight was most serious in Bokkos, followed by Ampang, Heipang and Vwang in that order. The average yield of potato tubers (kg/ha) was highest in Ampang and least in Heipang. A brief view of the weather reports from these areas shows erratic patterns of rainfall and rise in temperature which may be attributed to the general climate change. A major trend observed in the weather report is the increase in early rainfall (March-April) which farmers tend to explore for early planting with severe consequences. The increasing tendency to adopt mono cropping by out growers for the multinational seed and other Agro-based companies was highlighted and the attendant risks involved while making a case for mixed/inter cropping. Other benefits suggested for inter cropping were higher resource use efficiencies, security against total crop lost, reduction in the use of pesticides to control diseases and pests as well as favorable environmental effects like shading, erosion control and suppressing weeds.
Abstract: Potato cultivation on the Jos Plateau is a multi-Billion Naira enterprise which is on the very brink of collapse due to upsurge in the incidences and severity of late blight a disease caused by Phytophtora infestans (Mont) DeBary. This paper highlighted the scope of the spread of this scourge by assessing the magnitude of loses due to the disease i...
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Effect of Plant Spacing on the Yield and Yield Component of Field Pea (Pisum Sativum L.) at Adet, North Western Ethiopia
Yayeh Bitew,
Fekremariam Asargew,
Oumer Beshir
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
368-373
Received:
18 September 2014
Accepted:
30 September 2014
Published:
10 October 2014
Abstract: Field pea is an important low-input break crops throughout the highlands of Ethiopia. The experiment was conducted on effect of spacing on the yield and yield component of field pea cultivars (pisum sativum L.) in 2012-213 cropping season at Adet Agricultural research station. Three intra row spacing’s (5 cm, 10 cm and 15 cm) and two inter row spacing (20 cm and 25 cm) were evaluated using two released varieties, Sefinesh and Megeri on a plot size of 5 m x 5m (25 m2). The experimental design was a completely randomized block with 12 treatments in three replications. JMP-5 (SAS) software was used to compute the analysis of variance, correlation and regression analyses. Main effects of variety and intra row spacing had significant effect (P<0.05) on plant height, number of seeds per pod, seed yield while inter row spacing did not affect all examined attributes. The overall highest seed yield was recorded when Sefinesh was planted in 15 cm intra row spacing followed by Megeri in 5cm intra row spacing. The experiment revealed that average yield of Megeri increased when intra row spacing decreased. The reverse is true for Sefinesh. Similarly, increasing the intra row spacing revealed a peak seed yield at approximately 15 cm intra row spacing in Sefinsh. More importantly, increase in inter and intra row spacing together leads to increase and decrease the seed yield of Sefinesh and Megeri, respectively. Hence, 25 cm inter row with 15 cm intra row and 20 cm inter row with 5 cm intra row spacing, respectively gave the highest mean seed yield, and thereby increase the productivity of filed pea cultivars in West Gojam, but the experiment should be tested under small scale farmers’ conditions.
Abstract: Field pea is an important low-input break crops throughout the highlands of Ethiopia. The experiment was conducted on effect of spacing on the yield and yield component of field pea cultivars (pisum sativum L.) in 2012-213 cropping season at Adet Agricultural research station. Three intra row spacing’s (5 cm, 10 cm and 15 cm) and two inter row spac...
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Comparison of Different Fertilizer Management Practices on Rice Growth and Yield in the Ashanti Region of Ghana
Roland Nuhu Issaka,
Moro Mohammed Buri,
Satoshi Nakamura,
Satoshi Tobita
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
374-379
Received:
3 September 2014
Accepted:
23 September 2014
Published:
20 October 2014
Abstract: Nutrient management is critical in increasing and sustaining rice yield. A field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of inorganic fertilizer (IF), poultry manure (PM) and their combinations on rice yield and possible residual effects. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used and the trial was conducted on a Gleysol. In 2011 SPAD values for IF and PM/ IF combinations (except 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha) were significantly higher in the sixth week onwards than PM. Number of panicles/plant and number of panicles m2 were significantly higher for 90-60-60 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha and 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha than 6.0 and 4.0 t/ha PM resulting in significantly higher grain yield. Grain yield of IF was similar to grain yield of PM/IF combinations. In 2012 the residual effects showed a significantly higher SPAD value for the 6.0 t/ha PM. Also 6.0 t/ha PM, 4.0 t/ha PM and 4.0 t/ha PM + 30 kg N/ha had significantly high number of panicles/plant and number of panicles/m2 than IF. Residual effect of PM applied at 4.0 t/ha and above gave significantly higher grain yield than IF. Mean grain yield for the three years showed that 4.0 t/ha PM + 30 kg N/ha and 2.0 t/ha PM + 22.5-15-15 kg N: P2O5: K2O/ha gave significantly higher yields than the other treatments. The results indicate that integrating IF and PM is a better option in increasing and sustaining rice production.
Abstract: Nutrient management is critical in increasing and sustaining rice yield. A field experiment was conducted to examine the effects of inorganic fertilizer (IF), poultry manure (PM) and their combinations on rice yield and possible residual effects. A randomized complete block design with three replications was used and the trial was conducted on a Gl...
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Investigating the Role of Apiculture in Watershed Management and Income Improvement in Galessa Protected Area, Ethiopia
Tura Bareke Kifle,
Kibebew Wakjira Hora,
Admassu Addi Merti
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
380-385
Received:
20 September 2014
Accepted:
5 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: Beekeeping gives local people economic incentive for the preservation of natural habitats and is an ideal activity in watershed conservation program. The study was designed to assess and demonstrate the contribution of improved beekeeping for income generation and sustainable watershed management in Galessa protected area. For this purpose households were purposively selected based on their interest in beekeeping, experience in traditional beekeeping and proximity of residence to watershed areas. Training on beekeeping and integrations of beekeeping with watershed management were provided. Data of honey yield, bee plants, and annual income obtained from honey and field crops before and after improved beekeeping intervention were collected. Accordingly, the mean annual honey yield, income obtained from honey sales, bee forage planting practice and number of transitional hives owned by the beekeepers are significantly different between the sample households (P<0.05) before and after intermediate beekeeping intervention but the number of traditional hives owned was not significantly different between the household . The total honey yield has increased almost by two fold and the annual revenue increased by 6.5 folds. Therefore integration of intermediate beekeeping technology with conservation of watershed can enhance the income of household and encourages planting of bee forages which directly contributes for sustainable watershed managements. Thus demonstration and scaling up improved beekeeping technology should be promoted for sustainable watershed rehabilitation and to diversify the household income.
Abstract: Beekeeping gives local people economic incentive for the preservation of natural habitats and is an ideal activity in watershed conservation program. The study was designed to assess and demonstrate the contribution of improved beekeeping for income generation and sustainable watershed management in Galessa protected area. For this purpose househol...
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Screening of Potential Herbaceous Honey Plants for Beekeeping Development
Tura Bareke Kifle,
Kibebew Wakjira Hora,
Admassu Addi Merti
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
386-391
Received:
20 September 2014
Accepted:
5 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: Availability of adequate perennial and annual sources of nectar and pollen is the most limiting factor in the survival, abundance and distribution of honeybees. The study was therefore conducted to screen the best performing bee forages from eight plant species with a view to selecting for honey production for high and mid land agro-ecologies. The planting materials were Becium grandiflorum, Vicia sativa, Guizotia abyssinica, Echium plantaginium, Trifolium rupplianum, Brassica carinata, Sinaps alba and Fagophyrum esculentum. The species were evaluated based on germination rate, number of flower heads per plants, time to set flower, foraging intensity of honeybees and flowering length. Accordingly, Becium grandiflorum, Guizotia abyssinica, Brassica carinata, Fagophyrum esculentum and Trifolium rupplianum were good under rain fed condition while Sinaps alba was found to perform better under irrigation fed. On contrary, the study found that Echium plantaginium; Vicia sativa and Fagophyrum esculentum were performed better under both rain fed and irrigation conditions. Mean number of flower heads per 1m2 for all studied plant species were similar except Echium plantaginium which was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to the rest. Honeybees foraging intensity and time for different plant species were significantly different. From these investigations, it is concluded that developing better performing plant species through use of irrigation and rain fed conditions will alleviate the shortage of bee forages and help in increasing honey production.
Abstract: Availability of adequate perennial and annual sources of nectar and pollen is the most limiting factor in the survival, abundance and distribution of honeybees. The study was therefore conducted to screen the best performing bee forages from eight plant species with a view to selecting for honey production for high and mid land agro-ecologies. The ...
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Tree Diameters and Planting Distance as the Most Important Factors for the Liberation of Tree Competitors in Silvicultural Systems of TPTJ
Prijanto Pamoengkas,
Seca Gandaseca,
Gusti Hardiansyah,
Priyanto,
Muhamad Rizky Jamaludin
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
392-396
Received:
1 October 2014
Accepted:
21 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: Maintenance of forest plants intensively under the selective cutting and line planting system (TPTJ) will accelerate the growth of plant species. Widening the line planting improves the penetrating light, thus increasing growth rate of the plants. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between stem diameter and distance of competitor tree to forest plant, as well as stem diameter and canopy diameter as a basis for the liberation of competitor trees on the TPTJ system. Regression analysis showed that the competitor trees diameter and distance can be used as one technique of vertical liberation with equation correlation for both variables is X = 3.567 0797dbh+ 0.121dbh2 0.004dbh3. The approach of liberation using correlation between stem diameter and canopy diameter can not be used as a vertical liberation technique with equation correlation between the two variables is Cda = 2.535 0.031dbh + 0.050dbh2 0.002dbh3. The study revealed that saplings with diameter (dbh) 59 cm located at 12.5 m of subplots must be slashed down. For sapling with diameter (dbh) ≥10 cm dbh located at 35 m of the center of planting line must be girdled.
Abstract: Maintenance of forest plants intensively under the selective cutting and line planting system (TPTJ) will accelerate the growth of plant species. Widening the line planting improves the penetrating light, thus increasing growth rate of the plants. The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between stem diameter and distance of comp...
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Stock Assessment of Sharks in the Northern Part (Iranian Waters) of the Persian Gulf
Nassir Niamaimandi,
Toraj Valinassab,
Gholam-Abbas Zarshenas
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
397-400
Received:
28 September 2014
Accepted:
21 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: This study was analyzed the annual catch and trawl survey data of sharks in the northern part of the Persian Gulf (26˚30΄ to 30˚00΄N and 49˚00΄ to 56˚00΄E) from 2004 to 2009. Trawl survey was conducted by research vessel Ferdous, equipped with bottom trawl nets in meshes 400mm and 80mm at body and cod-end respectively. Ten stratums were selected in the study area and 199 stations were randomly trawled. The density (CPUA) of shark resources was estimated based on swept area method. Annual total catch was obtained from Iranian fisheries organization (Shilat). The results of catch per unit area showed 250.7 kg/nm2 in 2004 to 49.7 kg/nm2 in 2009. There was a high degree of variability of CPUA among different areas and the maximum was estimated 1870.8 kg/nm2 in Nayband and Mogham. In catch composition data, sharks have a decreasing trend from 4.2% in 2004 to 2.9% in 2009 that shows a decline with an annual average 1.3% during 2004-2009.This results suggesting that the shark resources are overexploited and the current effort is far higher than the effort required harvesting optimum yields.
Abstract: This study was analyzed the annual catch and trawl survey data of sharks in the northern part of the Persian Gulf (26˚30΄ to 30˚00΄N and 49˚00΄ to 56˚00΄E) from 2004 to 2009. Trawl survey was conducted by research vessel Ferdous, equipped with bottom trawl nets in meshes 400mm and 80mm at body and cod-end respectively. Ten stratums were selected in...
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Dietary Fiber Characteristics and Mineral Availability from Treated and Non-Treated Brown Rice
Trinidad Palad Trinidad,
Aida Casibang Mallillin,
Marco Pomida de Leon,
James David Santos Alcantara
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
401-404
Received:
19 September 2014
Accepted:
21 October 2014
Published:
30 October 2014
Abstract: Background: Brown rice has greater mineral content than milled rice. However, due to high dietary fiber and phytic acid content, mineral absorption may be suppressed. Objective: To determine the dietary fiber characteristics and mineral availability from treated and non-treated brown rice. Materials and Methods: Four varieties of cooked brown rice were used in the study and the same treated to extend the shelf-life of brown rice. Freeze-dried samples were analysed for proximate composition, dietary fiber, phytic acid, iron, zinc and calcium content using standard methods. Mineral availability and dietary fiber fermentation were determined in vitro. Results: The dietary fiber content of treated brown rice (11.0±0.6 – 11.7±0.1) was significantly greater than that of non-treated brown rice (5.5±0.5 -6.4±0.2; P<0.05). The mineral content and availability from treated and non-treated brown rice did not differ significantly except for mineral availability. Dietary fiber and phytic acid did not show inhibitory effect on mineral availability from both brown rices. The dietary fiber content from both brown rices was fermentable producing short chain fatty acids with greater amounts of propionate. Conclusion: Treated and non-treated brown rice are good sources of minerals and dietary fiber, found to be fermentable, and did not inhibit mineral availability.
Abstract: Background: Brown rice has greater mineral content than milled rice. However, due to high dietary fiber and phytic acid content, mineral absorption may be suppressed. Objective: To determine the dietary fiber characteristics and mineral availability from treated and non-treated brown rice. Materials and Methods: Four varieties of cooked brown rice ...
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Examinations of the Stomach Contents of Two Fish Species (Clarias Gariepinus and Oreochromis Niloticus) in Lake Alau, North – Eastern Nigeria
Umaru Buba Wakil,
A. B. Haruna,
Gwana Adamu Mohammed,
Wanas Lalai Ndirmbita,
Bukar-Kolo M. Yachilla,
Mohammed Umar Kumai
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
405-409
Received:
12 October 2014
Accepted:
29 October 2014
Published:
10 November 2014
Abstract: This study was conducted on the examinations of the stomach contents of two commercially important fish species of Catfish and Tilapia fish (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) known as “Tarwada” and “Karfasa” in Hausa language, determined from Lake Alau, North – Eastern Nigeria, using frequency of occurrence and volumetric methods between June to December, 2013. Gill nets and Malian traps were used to catch the fish every fortnight. Three hundred and fifty (350) individual fish of each species obtained and their stomach contents examined. The results obtained expressed in mean percentage indicated that out of the three hundred and fifty (350) individual fish of each species examined, 121 (35%) fish had an empty stomach contents in Clarias gariepinus, and out of the 350 samples examined, 145 fish had an empty stomach content in Oreochromis niloticus representing 41%. The stomach contents of Clarias gariepinus consisted of animal and plant materials, planktons, (zooplanktons and phytoplankton) and others. Fish prey was the dominant animal material (51%) with mean contribution of 32% by volume, and plant material consisted of leaves and offal (6% by volume). The stomach content of Oreochromis niloticus consisted mainly of animal and plant materials, planktons and detritus. Algae represented by Chlorella, Volvox, Scenedesmus, Pediastrum, and Spirogyra species accounted for 66% by volume followed by detritus and mud with 20 %, zooplankton represented by Daphnia and Moina species represented the low food content by volume with 8 %. The study reveals the importance of algae, fish, insects and plant materials as food for fish in Lake Alau, and zooplanktons form important items in the diet of the species examined. Both species are omnivorous and occupy the same ecological niche; hence, there is the need to control pollution into the lake to prevent eutrophication.
Abstract: This study was conducted on the examinations of the stomach contents of two commercially important fish species of Catfish and Tilapia fish (Clarias gariepinus and Oreochromis niloticus) known as “Tarwada” and “Karfasa” in Hausa language, determined from Lake Alau, North – Eastern Nigeria, using frequency of occurrence and volumetric methods betwe...
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Fertility Status of Soils under Different Land uses at Wujiraba Watershed, North-Western Highlands of Ethiopia
Habtamu A.,
Heluf G.,
Bobe B.,
Enyew A.
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
410-419
Received:
21 October 2014
Accepted:
4 November 2014
Published:
10 November 2014
Abstract: In Ethiopian highlands, land use changes, mainly, from natural vegetation to cultivated lands brought about rapid nutrient depletion. Intensive and continuous cultivation of land without proper management resulted in decline in soil physical, chemical and biological properties which aggravate crop yield reduction and food shortage. The present study, therefore, is designed to investigate the effects of different land uses on soil fertility status in the Nitisols of Wujiraba watershed. Twenty seven soil samples were collected randomly depth wise (0 - 15, 15- 30 and 30 - 45 cm) from the cultivated, forest and grazing lands. Data were analyzed using the two ways ANOVA in RCBD with three replications. Land use and soil depth showed a significant (P ≤ 0.05) effect on soil physicochemical properties. The highest f (57.8%), OC (4.6%), total N (0.28%), available S (11.1 ppm), CEC (42.2 cmol+ kg-1), exchangeable bases (Ca (22.2), K (0.76) and Na (0.58 cmol+ kg-1)) and available micronutrients ( Fe (14.2), Mn (24.1) and Zn (2.9 ppm)) were recorded on the surface layer of the forest land while lowest pH/KCl(5.03) and highest available P (5.5 ppm) on the surface layer of cultivated land. The results revealed that soil fertility declines as land use changed from forest to grazing and cultivated lands. Hence, it is possible to infer that continuous and intensive cultivation depletes plant nutrients greatly which urge to take measures for maintaining its fertility status of the cultivated soils in the study area.
Abstract: In Ethiopian highlands, land use changes, mainly, from natural vegetation to cultivated lands brought about rapid nutrient depletion. Intensive and continuous cultivation of land without proper management resulted in decline in soil physical, chemical and biological properties which aggravate crop yield reduction and food shortage. The present stud...
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Assessing the Effectiveness of Ethnomedicinal Products on Banana Weevils Using REML
Bwogi Godfrey,
Mwine Julius,
Jumba Francis,
Murongo Marius,
Grace Njeri Njoroge,
Kabango Freddie,
Mutumba Nakulima Kyeswa Pross
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
420-426
Received:
6 October 2014
Accepted:
24 October 2014
Published:
10 November 2014
Abstract: This study investigated the effect of applying selected banana pest control treatments on management of banana weevils. The data was collected on 283 banana plants picked at random; from 29 farmers selected using a snowball sampling technique. Treatments used were ethnomedicinal products, synthetic chemicals, cultural practices in plantation planted from suckers and those planted from tissue culture. Since data was spatially collected, it was analyzed using Restricted Maximum likelihood Estimator (REML). REML was used to estimate the PCI after a square root transformation. The statistical analysis indicated a significant difference between plantations where synthetic chemicals, clean planting materials (tissue culture), cultural practices and ethnomedicinal products were used. There was also significant variation resulting from different varieties grown. However, there was no significant variation resulting from the response of different varieties to the different treatments. Results also indicated that garden where the cleaning materials had been used had the least percentage of banana weevil infection. This study found out that there was no significant difference in damage caused by banana weevils in banana plantations where synthetic chemicals and ethnomedicinal extracts were applied. Thus given the results, the study concluded that ethnomedicinal products can be used by farmers to manage banana weevils. The study recommends that further studies should be carried out to assess efficacy of the identified potential plants with pesticidal properties under controlled experiment.
Abstract: This study investigated the effect of applying selected banana pest control treatments on management of banana weevils. The data was collected on 283 banana plants picked at random; from 29 farmers selected using a snowball sampling technique. Treatments used were ethnomedicinal products, synthetic chemicals, cultural practices in plantation plante...
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Assessment of Fish Farmers’ Livelihood and Poverty Status in Delta State, Nigeria
James Asu Nandi,
Patience Gunn,
Glory Atim Adegboye,
Tena Mongalaku Barnabas
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
427-433
Received:
23 October 2014
Accepted:
5 November 2014
Published:
20 November 2014
Abstract: Despite the potentials of Nigeria in fish production, domestic fish production has failed to meet the national demand, making Nigeria a net importer of fish. Hence, this study assessed the livelihood and poverty status of fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 90 fish farmers across the State. Data were elicited through questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and poverty gap indices measures. Respondents’ mean age was 42 years; with average household size of 5 people; 83% were literate; with 17 years of fishing experience. This indicates that fish farmers in the area were young, literate and experienced. Thus, they could withstand the drudgery and risk of the venture. It was observed that 42% of the farmers lived in rented apartments while 26% occupied their own apartments of single rooms (73%), with iron sheet roof (62%), floored with cement concrete (81%). The major source of water was borehole hand pump; with farmers using unauthorized refuse heaps and covered pit latrines. Farmers’ annual income averaged N137,500 (881.41 USD) which is below the annual minimum income of an average Nigerian. Poverty index was 0.867, resulting to a poverty gap index of 0.629, implying high poverty incidence. Major constraints identified were insufficient fund, fluctuation in market prices and fish spoilage. It is recommended that soft loans should be granted to fish farmers on time; canning and processing industries should be established in the area; adequately funded extension agents should be deployed to the study area.
Abstract: Despite the potentials of Nigeria in fish production, domestic fish production has failed to meet the national demand, making Nigeria a net importer of fish. Hence, this study assessed the livelihood and poverty status of fish farmers in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 90 fish farmers across the State. Data...
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Comparing Dermestes maculatus (DeGeer) Infestation of Cured Tropical Freshwater Fishes [Oreochromis niloticus (Linnaeus) and Clarias gariepinus (Burchell)]
Davies Ibienebo Chris,
Ebere Samuel Erondu,
Usman Zakka,
Nenibarini Zabbey
Issue:
Volume 3, Issue 5, October 2014
Pages:
434-438
Received:
21 September 2014
Accepted:
10 October 2014
Published:
18 November 2014
Abstract: A multiple choice test was used to determine the rate of infestation of D. maculatus on two cured fish species of commercial importance. All the treatments had three replicates and were arranged in randomized complete block design. The infested and non-infested dried fish were subjected to a taste panel of four to evaluate the texture and taste quality of the fish before and after infestation. Percentage weight loss of the fish was also determined 30 days post infestation. A skewed 32% weight loss in C. gariepinus compared with 24.4% in O. niloticus was recorded. The study revealed that D. maculatus infestation rate (number of adults and larvae per fish specimen) was more in C. gariepinus than O. niloticus. Quality (taste and texture) damage was significantly greater in C. gariepinus than O. niloticus (p<0.05). The study also reveals that the entomo-fauna may feed on any material that has animal steroids. The effect of the pest infestation is discussed in the context of taste and texture characteristics, substrate fragmentation and frass weight. There is imperative need to develop appropriate pro-poor control measures which will minimize economic losses due to D. maculatus infestation of stored fish and fish products in the tropics.
Abstract: A multiple choice test was used to determine the rate of infestation of D. maculatus on two cured fish species of commercial importance. All the treatments had three replicates and were arranged in randomized complete block design. The infested and non-infested dried fish were subjected to a taste panel of four to evaluate the texture and taste qua...
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