Research Article
Combination of Blended Fertilizer Rates and Row Spacing Variations Improving Common Bean Yield and Yield Components at Guji Zone, Southern Ethiopia
Deresa Shumi*,
Tekalign Afeta
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
118-129
Received:
27 April 2026
Accepted:
3 June 2026
Published:
11 July 2026
Abstract: In Ethiopia, the productivity of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is primarily limited by insufficient soil fertility and sub optimal plant spacing. Consequently, a field experiment was undertaken in southern Ethiopia to identify the most effective plant population and multi-nutrient fertilizer (NPS) application rate for achieving economically viable common bean yields. The experimental setup involved three intra-row spacing options (8cm, 10cm, and 12cm) combined with five levels of NPS application (0, 50, 100, 150, and 200 kg/ha). This was arranged in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The application of NPS fertilizer resulted in a decrease in soil pH. Concurrently, it led to an increase in soil organic carbon, total nitrogen, and the availability of sulfur and phosphorus. However, the cation exchange capacity of the soil remained unaffected. The application of 150 kg NPS ha−1 and an intra-row spacing of 8 cm resulted in an optimal grain yield of 2505.56 kg ha−1, with a net return of 19558.99 ETB ha−1 and a marginal return rate of 93.35 percent. The best grain yield for both agronomic and economic growth and productivity for common beans was found when 150 kg of NPS was applied at an 8 cm plant spacing.
Abstract: In Ethiopia, the productivity of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is primarily limited by insufficient soil fertility and sub optimal plant spacing. Consequently, a field experiment was undertaken in southern Ethiopia to identify the most effective plant population and multi-nutrient fertilizer (NPS) application rate for achieving economically v...
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Research Article
Socio-demographic and Technical Characteristics of Fish Farming in Three Aquaculture Production Basins in Cameroon
Maureen Yannel Noutchom Yendje
,
Paulin Nyadjeu*,
Justin Djimbie Djopnang,
Majeste Mbiada Pahane,
Minette Eyango Tomedi-Tabi
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
130-142
Received:
10 June 2026
Accepted:
26 June 2026
Published:
30 July 2026
Abstract: Background: The natural conditions and geo-climatic diversity of Cameroon are ideal for aquaculture development. The current study aimed to assess the socio-demographic and technical characteristics of aquaculture across three regions in Cameroon. Methods: Data collection was based on the snowball sampling technique, field observations and face-to-face interviews with fish farmers, using a structured questionnaire. Of the 129 fish farmers identified, 46, 69 and 14 from the Littoral, Centre and South regions respectively were interviewed. Results: In the Littoral, Centre and South regions, 87%, 91% and 93% of aquaculture is practiced by men, respectively. Moreover, 74% of fish farmers in the Littoral region are between 26-36 years old, compared to 49% and 57% in the Centre and South regions, which are respectively aged 36-46. Most farms in the Littoral region (46%) are organized as cooperatives, whilst 49% and 50% of those in the Centre and South regions, respectively, have no legal status. Regardless of the region, African catfish, is the predominant species raised for commercial purposes. The main challenges facing fish farmers are the poor quality of locally produced feed (61%) and a lack of financial resources (61%). As regards fish feed production, the main challenges are the high cost of ingredients, an unreliable electricity supply and pests (77%). Conclusion: Given the age of fish farmers, their level of education and training in aquaculture, and the production facilities, the Littoral and Centre regions are emerging as key hubs for the development of fish farming in Cameroon.
Abstract: Background: The natural conditions and geo-climatic diversity of Cameroon are ideal for aquaculture development. The current study aimed to assess the socio-demographic and technical characteristics of aquaculture across three regions in Cameroon. Methods: Data collection was based on the snowball sampling technique, field observations and face-to-...
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Research Article
Verification of Maize-Haricot Bean Intercropping Patterns for Crop Productivity and Soil Fertility Improvement in Sibu Sire District, Western Oromia Region, Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 15, Issue 4, August 2026
Pages:
143-152
Received:
11 May 2026
Accepted:
17 June 2026
Published:
11 August 2026
Abstract: Maize-haricot bean intercropping is one of the best agronomic practices in Ethiopia in general and at study area particularly. This trial in Sibu Sire district was aimed to verify maize-haricot bean intercropping pattern. The treatments were Control/without intercropping (C); Farmers practiced intercropping pattern (FPIP) and Research based intercropping pattern (RBIP). The trial was conducted in the year 2024 main cropping season on purposively selected farmers’ fields across the district. The treatments were replicated 3 times with RCBD design. Soil test based inorganic fertilizer rate was used. Soil and agronomic data were collected and analyzed. Yields and yields related parameters of maize and haricot bean were collected and analyzed. Except Plant heights, all other collected intercropped haricot bean parameters were significantly influenced by the treatments while the maize was not. Intercropping of Ibado bean variety planted during maize planting at two sides of maize rows could increases biomass and grain yields of haricot bean by about 40.59 and 48.56%, respectively compared to farmers practiced intercropping. It also resulted the highest net income (187081 birr /ha), LER (1.58) and LEC (0.63) from the former study during technology generation. Therefore, it should be recommended for farmers in the study area and similar agroecology.
Abstract: Maize-haricot bean intercropping is one of the best agronomic practices in Ethiopia in general and at study area particularly. This trial in Sibu Sire district was aimed to verify maize-haricot bean intercropping pattern. The treatments were Control/without intercropping (C); Farmers practiced intercropping pattern (FPIP) and Research based intercr...
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