Archives of Agriculture and Environmental Science
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Risk assessment of a Disinfection By-Product (DBP) on mitotic chromosomes using Allium root-tip bioassay
No full textThe process of disinfection of water, using chemicals like chlorine, bromine or iodine, leads to formation of certain chemicals called Disinfection By-Products (DBPs). These chemicals were once considered potentially harmless but as their levels are increasing in potable water, concerns over their toxic effects are growing worldwide. Chlorinated DBPs are of highest concern in case of swimming pool waters as they provide greatest exposure to skin, eyes and mouth of the swimmers. This study was therefore planned with an aim to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of DBPs on mitotic chromosomes of Allium cepa roots under controlled laboratory conditions. For this study, Trichloroacetic Acid (a common DBP) was dissolved in water in concentration levels that are common in swimming pool waters. This was used as a medium to grow roots in A. cepa bulbs. The cells of the roots grown in exposure of Trichloroacetic acid (TCAA) were then cytologically analysed. Results showed mitotic abnormalities like micronuclei, bridge formation, fragmentation, stickiness etc. with total abnormalities reaching up to 26.81%. Active Mitotic Index showed a dose dependent reduction with a mito-inhibition of 41.68% at highest treatment dose. Such an assessment of cytotoxic potential of TCAA on plant cell mitosis has rarely been attempted which makes the study novel. This bioassay showed that DPBs definitely have the mutagenic potential even under short term exposure and can become a bigger problem with successive bio-magnification. Hence, it proves the effectiveness of Allium mitosis bioassay in testing cytotoxicity of DBPs
Influence of different spacing regimes on growth and productivity of BARI tomato-2
No full textTomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a widely cultivated vegetable crop whose productivity is strongly influenced by its spacing and plant population. A field experiment was conducted at Rajshahi region during December,2024 to April, 2025 to evaluate the effect of different plant spacing’s (D1=40 × 45 cm, D2=50 × 45 cm, and D3=60 × 45 cm) on the growth and yield of tomato (BARI Tomato -2). The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. Healthy seedlings of BARI Tomato-2 were transplanted in well-prepared plots according to the assigned spacing treatments. Results revealed that wider spacing (D3) significantly enhanced vegetative and reproductive parameters compared to narrower spacings. Plants at D3 cm attained the greatest height, which was 72% higher than those grown at D1 cm. This spacing produced a higher number of primary (24%) and productive branches (62%) compared to D1. Furthermore, proper spacing provides more fruit weight, more fruits per plant (25% more than D1) and increased biological yield (4.3 tha1) compared to closed spacing. Consequently, D3 spacing achieved the highest yield (38%) per hectare, which was 26% higher than D1. Thus, adopting an appropriate spacing (both inter and intra row) regime, particularly D3 is crucial for maximizing tomato growth and yield
Optimizing nitrogen and sulphur nutrition for enhanced yield and yield-attributing traits in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.)
No full textOptimizing nutrient management is pivotal for the proper growth and development of plants to ensure higher productivity. The present study evaluated the effect of different nitrogen-sulphur levels on the growth and yield of groundnut. The experiment comprised six N-S treatment combinations (F1-6: N 30, 40 and S 0, 20, 30 kg ha-1) with a control (F0: N 0 and S 0 kg ha-1) using Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The result demonstrated significant yield improvements of groundnut under N and S applications compared to the control. Notably, Binachinabadam-8 (V2) treated with the highest level of N-S (F6, N 40 and S 30 kg ha-1) demonstrated the best performance, with enhanced plant height (46.67 cm), number of branches plant-1 (8.67), number of pods plant-1 (37.67), weight of pods plant-1 (27.84 g), number of seeds pod-1 (2.10), 100-seed weight (8.67 g), shelling percentage (73.52%), seed yield (1.55 t ha-1), stover yield (3.07 t ha-1), biological yield (5.36 t ha-1) and harvest index (42.66%). Further statistical analyses, such as Pearson correlation analysis, heatmap analysis, and PCA, confirmed trait contributions like number and weight of pods plant-1, shelling percentage, 100-seed weight, plant height, and number of branches plant-1 for yield variation. The cultivation of Binachinabadam-8 with 40 kg N ha-1 (≈87 kg Urea ha-1) and 30 kg S ha-1 (≈167 kg Gypsum ha-1) might offer a promising strategy towards groundnut productivity. The study provides valuable insights for developing nutrient management strategies aimed at sustainable groundnut production in less nutrient soils
Impact of sulfur and phosphorus fertilization on growth and yield of perilla oil crop (Perilla frutescens) under net house condition in Bangladesh
No full textThe current study aimed to evaluate the effects of sulfur (S) and phosphorus (P) fertilization on the growth and yield of Perilla frutescens, an emerging oilseed crop in Bangladesh. The experiment was conducted under net house conditions at the Agronomy Department, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh from July to December 2024. A Completely Randomized Design (CRD) scheme was followed, comprising four sulfur levels (0, 9.25, 18.5, and 27.75 kg ha-¹) and four phosphorus levels (0, 20, 30, and 40 kg ha-¹). Sulfur and phosphorus were supplied through gypsum and triple superphosphate (TSP), respectively. Growth parameters viz. plant height branch number, receme count, 1000-seed weight etc. were recorded along with biological yield and harvest index. The results revealed that both sulfur and phosphorus significantly (p<0.05) influenced perilla productivity. Sulfur application at 18.5 kg ha-¹ produced the highest seed yield (0.90 t ha-¹), while higher or lower levels reduced yield performance. Similarly, phosphorus application at 30 kg ha-¹ maximized yield (1.09 t ha-¹). Notably, the combined application of 18.5 kg S ha-¹ with 30 kg P ha-¹ yielded the highest productivity (1.50 t ha-¹), outperforming sole applications of either nutrient. This interaction shows the synergistic role of balanced S and P fertilization in enhancing seed yield and harvest index. The study provides the experimental evidence on nutrient management for perilla in Bangladesh, indicating that moderate sulfur (100 kg gypsum ha-¹) and phosphorus (150 kg TSP ha-¹) fertilization can significantly improve growth and yield
Fusarium wilt of banana (Tropical Race 4) in Nepal: Distribution, epidemiology, and integrated management strategies
No full textBanana (Musa spp.) is a key smallholder crop in Nepal, ranking third in production (≈282,000 t yr-¹) and fifth in area (≈19,000 ha), yet it faces a growing threat from Fusarium wilt (Panama disease) caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cubense Tropical Race 4 (TR4). Unlike earlier epidemics that devastated ‘Gros Michel’ (Race 1), TR4 infects Cavendish and many cooking cultivars, persists in soil for over 30 years, and spreads through contaminated planting material, soil, water, and tools. This review aims to synthesize global and regional evidence on TR4’s etiology, history, distribution, symptoms, and epidemiology, and to evaluate management options relevant to Nepal’s smallholder systems following the country’s first detections in 2023 (e.g., Kailali, Tikapur). Information was compiled systematically from peer-reviewed literature (Elsevier, Springer, Wiley), institutional reports (FAO, IPPC, NPPO), and verified bulletins (2000–2024). The synthesis indicates that curative control is unreliable, whereas integrated exclusion and containment strategies—certified disease-free planting material, field sanitation, and movement restrictions—can reduce disease incidence by 60–80%. Biological control, nutrient management, and tolerant cultivars show potential as supportive, not substitutive, measures. Therefore, establishing national diagnostic and surveillance capacity, strengthening on-farm biosecurity and clean-seed systems, and aligning regional quarantine and seed-certification policies should be needed on urgent priorities in Nepal. This study provides the first comprehensive synthesis of TR4’s threat to Nepal, offering an evidence-based roadmap for safeguarding banana livelihoods and sustaining the national value chain
Assessment of levels of heavy metals in some common local spices sold in two markets in Cape Coast Ghana
No full textThe study examined levels of lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and copper (Cu) in ten spices sold in Abura and Kotokoraba markets, Cape Coast-Ghana to determine their safety for consumption. Samples of spices were collected from the markets and analyzed for Pb, Cd and Cu using atomic absorption spectrophotometry. A one-way analysis of variance was used to compare mean levels of metals in spices from these markets, followed by Tukey’s post hoc test to identify specific pairwise differences among the spices. Mean Cd levels were below detectable limits. Mean Pb levels did not differ significantly between markets (F = 1.004, p = 0.450), indicating similar contamination patterns. Mean Cu levels differed significantly (F = 3.472, p = 0.002), with ginger showing markedly higher Cu levels than garlic, rosemary, aniseed, grains of paradise, negro pepper, bay leaf, cloves, and chili pepper. Results suggest that differences found in Cu levels may depend on the type of spice rather than location of market. While Pb contamination appears uniform across both markets, the Cu disparity underscores the need for commodity-specific control strategies. The study recommends targeted monitoring of high risk spices particularly ginger through source tracing, vendor education, and stricter regulatory checks. This research provides a comparative market analysis of heavy metals in Ghanaian spices, offering evidence to strengthen public health protection and ensure safer spice trade practices
Reducing environmental pollution through improved medical waste management: An Assessment of practices and strategies in Patuakhali Municipality, Bangladesh
No full textEffective medical waste (MW) management is crucial because of its significant effects on human health and the environment. In Patuakhali Municipality, improper handling of medical waste in various healthcare facilities is contributing to increased vulnerability to the spread of diseases such as diarrhea, hepatitis, and various skin infections. The aim of the study is to categorize different types of medical waste, determine their generation rates, evaluate current waste management practices, and identify shortcomings by comparing them with standard procedures. The study was conducted across 14 selected healthcare establishments (HCEs) that contribute substantially to the municipality’s total medical waste. A descriptive research methodology was used, involving field surveys and interviews with hospital authorities and waste management personnel. Findings revealed that these facilities generate approximately 1495 kg of medical waste per day, of which 1328.6kg/day (88.7%) is non-infectious and 166.4 kg/day (11.13%) is infectious. The average waste generation rate is 1.54 kg per bed per day or 0.30 kg per patient per day. The study highlights the absence of systematic and regulated medical waste management. Key barriers identified include lack of awareness among staff, insufficient financial resources, and limited institutional willingness to improve practices. Furthermore, the existing system lacks proper segregation, storage, and disposal measures. Some examples of proper medical waste management are provided, along with identified gaps in the current system. Therefore, Patuakhali Municipality and HCEs authorities should adopt appropriate policies and implement training programs for personnel involved in medical waste handling to improve overall management practices
Knowledge and application of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) among cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) growers in Bharatpur metropolitan city, Nepal
No full textA study was conducted to determine the Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) adopted by cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) growers in Ward 27 of Bharatpur Metropolitan City, Chitwan, Nepal. For the collection of data, 60 cucumber growers were interviewed through a semi-structured questionnaire. Farmers were categorized as GAP aware farmers and GAP unaware farmers. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistical tools, such as t-test and binary logit regression analysis. The results revealed that only 25% of the farmers were aware of GAP. Although, majority of farmers were not aware of GAP, i.e., 75%, yet they managed to apply various good agricultural practices on their farms. 70% of farmers planted the recommended variety, 70% practiced mulching, and 60% applied the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF). Likewise, almost all (93.33%) integrated organic nutrients alongside chemical fertilizers, whereas 81.7% applied irrigation water free from harmful contaminants. The results revealed that 65% farmers used PPE while handling chemical fertilizers and 61.7% adopted IPM. Very few, 29% of respondents kept the record, which was determined to be the least adopted among other practices. From the result of the binary logit regression analysis, none of the independent factors were found to be statistically affecting GAP awareness. Poor access to government services, followed by inadequate access to GAP input, were found to be the major problems related to GAP adoption. Limited knowledge and training, and limited market incentives were other major problems faced by farmers
Effectiveness of salt licking sites for wild animals in Bardia National Park, Nepal
No full textSalt licks are naturally occurring spots vital to numerous wildlife species worldwide. This study aimed to examine the use of natural salt licks by wild animals inside Bardia National Park (BNP), Nepal. Five camera traps were installed at five selected salt licks for a period of 18 days. A total 6 families and 10 species, were recorded at the salt lick sites were recorded during the investigation. The sites, Baghaura A and Baghaura C emerged as the most diverse salt licks in terms of species richness. The Shannon-Weiner diversity index was highest at Baghaura C, while the species evenness index was also highest there and lowest at Patthar Bandha South. The Simpson diversity index was highest in Patthar Bandha South and lowest at Baghaura B. Spotted deer, followed by rhino, were the most frequent visitors with the highest Capture Frequency (CF) and Relative Abundance Index (RAI). Carnivores and omnivores were least abundant. Temporal activity pattern was varied with species and habitat, with maximum activity during the day. The soil analysis also showed the highest pH and exchangeable sodium at Patthar Bandha South and the lowest at Baghaura A. Among the five identified threats, Habitat destruction and human interference were identified as the most severe threats. Disease transmission and poisoning ranked high and medium threats, respectively. Therefore, this study provides science-based evidence for the protection of salt lick sites for effective wildlife management in Bardia National Park, Nepal
Organo-mineral nitrogen fertilizer enhances growth, nitrogen use efficiency and protein content in red amaranth
No full textRed amaranth is a popular vegetable in Bangladesh because of its high nutritional value and pleasant flavor. Efficient nitrogen (N) management is vital for sustainable crop production, but conventional urea fertilizers often cause significant N losses. In recent years, organo-mineral fertilizers (OMFs) have gained popularity for improving crop yield and soil fertility. This study examined the effect of brown Coal Urea (BCU) as an organo-mineral N fertilizer, on growth, fresh biomass yield, N use efficiency (NUE), and protein content of red amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor L.). A pot experiment, conducted under a completely randomized design, assessed five N application rates (0, 50, 75, 100, 150 kg N ha-¹) delivered through urea, DAP, BCU applied as topdressing, and BCU applied as a basal treatment. The results showed that BCU treatment significantly (p<0.05) improved all parameters compared to urea. The highest plant height and fresh biomass yield were found with BCU basal application at 150 kg N ha-1, while the greatest NUE (77.29%) and FNUE (56.84%) were achieved at 50 kg N ha-1. The improved performance was attributed to slow-release and humic-rich nature of BCU, which enhances N retention and uptake efficiency. Overall, BCU effectively increased yield and N efficiency in red amaranth, highlighting its potential as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilizers