International Journal of Plant & Soil Science
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Pathogenic Fungi Communities in Contrasted Yam Field Soils are Dominated by The Genus Fusarium in Centre Côte d’Ivoire
No full textBelow-ground pathogenic fungi of yam, a globally important food crop are shown to be responsible of field and storage diseases and as such are important threats to yam health. However, yam soil pathogenic fungi community composition and soil determinants remain unclear. Here, we explored the effects of soil physicochemical characteristics on soil fungal phytopathogens in contrasted yam fields. Illumina miseq was used to characterize pathogenic fungi communities in yam field soils. In this work, we hypothesise that pathogenic community composition could be linked to specific physicochemical properties within yam contrasted soils. Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) and variance partitioning were used to identify the soil properties that significantly influence pathogenic fungi community compositions within the three sites in a yam production zone. The results have shown that despite the fact that the three sites exhibited contrasted soils grouped in two types according to physicochemical parameters, four ubiquitous genera including Fusarium, Penicillium, Aspergillus and Trichoderma were identified within pathogenic fungi communities in yam field soils, with Fusarium as the most dominant core genus. Soil type determined the distribution of pathogenic fungi communities in yam field soils, and this effect was attributed to soil properties related to yam soil cation exchange capacity (CEC) and silt content as well as three micronutrients including Na, N and total phosphorus
Studies on Analysis of Correlation Coefficient and Path Coefficient for Certain Quantitative Traits in Fieldpea (Pisum sativum L. var. arvense)
No full textThe experiment was conducted with twenty-two (22) genotypes of fieldpea including four (4) checks in Randomized Block Design with three replications at the experimental farm of department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture, Kamla Nehru Institute of Physical and Social Sciences Sultanpur 228118 (U.P.) India, during Rabi, season 2022-2023. Phenotypic data were recorded for nine characters viz. Days to 50% flowering, Plant height, Branches per plant, Number of pods per plant, Days to maturity, Harvest index, 100-seed weight, Biological yield per plant and Grain yield per plant. It was expressed in general Correlation coefficient, provide an indication of the type and extent of the relationship between yield and yield contributing components by measuring the magnitude of linear relationships between two variables and path coefficient analysis partitions the observed correlation coefficient into direct and indirect effects on grain yield. The maximum value of highly significant positive genotypic correlation was observed for days to 50% flowering with days to maturity (0.88), biological yield per plant with grain yield per plant (0.84), number of branches per plant with 100-seed weight (0.84) respectively. The high direct positive genotypic effect on grain yield per plant were exerted by days to 50 % flowering (0.78) followed by biological yield per plant (0.40). The very high indirect positive genotypic effects on grain yield per plant by harvest index via biological yield per plant (1.47). Correlation coefficient gives an indication of the type and degree of the relationship between yield and yield contributing traits by measuring the magnitude of linear relationship between two variables, that’s why it leads us in selection of yield and other desirable characteristics of plant in crop improvement program and path analysis has emerged as an important and widely used technique for understanding the direction of contribution of traits on grain yield. It contributes either directly or indirectly to the total grain yield of the plant and this technique provides information to breeders for selection of yield contributing traits for improvement of crop in plant breeding
Advancements in Precision Farming: Enhancing Agricultural Sustainability through Technology – A Review
No full textPrecision Farming (PF), often referred to as Precision Agriculture (PA) or Site-Specific Land Management (SSLM), is a result of significant knowledge in crop and soil management and advances in agricultural technology. Using a variety of methods, including as GPS, GIS, Remote Sensing, Yield Monitoring, Variable Rate Application, Yield Mapping, and the creation of Site-Specific Management Zones (SSMZ), this novel strategy aims to increase soil and crop productivity while reducing effort and expenses. SSMZ is essential for efficient PF because it enhances soil function management by accurately evaluating crop and soil attributes. Beyond conventional techniques, enhanced land management depends on accurate mapping of crop characteristics and soil variability. For effective soil analysis, grid soil sampling which separates fields into square cells is crucial. To save expenses and enhance management zone demarcation, recent research has also used sensors to assess soil characteristics. SSMZ maps, which give farmers important information for improving their operations, can be produced from a variety of sources, including topographic, yield, soil, and nutrient maps, or from specific data layers. minimising expenses, raising farm profitability, and minimising environmental hazards like desertification all depend on improving soil and agricultural productivity. More sustainable agriculture results from precision farming, which increases agricultural yields while using less resources. By supplying reasonably priced, superior produce, it benefits society by lowering environmental impact, lowering farmer expenses, and ensuring food security. The long-term viability of farming systems is supported by increased yields and reduced ecological impacts brought about by sustainable agriculture methods and better soil health
Comparative Impact of Bio-slurry (Biofertilizer) Produced from Anaerobic Digestion of Domestic Waste and Inorganic Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of Okra [Abelmoschus esculentus (L.) Moench]
No full textThe comparative effect of biofertilizer produced from anaerobic digestion of domestic wastes and inorganic fertilizer on the growth and yield of Okra was analyzed pot experiment and standard analytical procedures. The pot experiment was carried out to evaluate the response of Okra CV. LD88-1 to different rates of bio-slurry as an organic fertilizer, inorganic fertilizer (NPK 15:15:15) and their combinations. The bio-slurry was applied at the rate of 10,000, 20,000, 30,000 and 40,000L/ha, NPK fertilizer at 300kg/ha and combined application all the rates of bio-slurry with half the rate of NKP (150kg/ha). Soils unamended with fertilizer served as the control. There were 10 treatments replicated 3 times and laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD). Data were collected on plant height (cm), number of leaves, stem girth (cm), number of fruits and fresh fruit weight (g)/plant as well as leaf tissue mineral nutrient contents. Results obtained showed that amendment of soil with either the organic fertilizer (bio-slurry) or inorganic fertilizer (NPK) significantly (P≤0.05) enhanced the growth, fruit yield and leaf mineral content (N, P, K, Ca and Mg) of Okra plants compared to the unamend soil (Control). However, there was a significant (P≤0.05) decrease in plant height, number of leaves and fruit yield when the bio-slurry was applied at 40,000L/ha relative to 30,000L/ha. Generally, the combination of 20,000L/ha bio-slurry with 150kg/ha NPK 15:15:15 significantly produced the tallest plants (62.00cm) with the highest number of leaves (10.67/plant), fruits (6.67/plant) and fruit yield (89.57g/plant). Also, the highest macronutrient content of N (2.74%), P (0.62%), K (2.80%), Ca (1.92%) and Mg (1.52%) were obtained with this treatment. The combined use of 20,000L/ha of the bio-slurry and 150kg/ha NPK 15:15:15 may be used to enhance Okra production by resource poor farmers
Soil Fertility Assessment and Management Strategies for Sustainable Agriculture in Chikkanayakanahalli Block of Karnataka, India
No full textSoil testing is essential for determining the availability of nutrients within the soil, which indicates fertilizer recommendations aimed at optimizing crop yields. Soil test summaries are indispensable reference tools for the scientific management of soil. A total of 113 surface soil samples were randomly collected from farmers field across nine villages in the Chikkanayakanahalli block to assess the fertility status of the soil. From the above study observed that the soils in the Chikkanayakanahalli block of Tumkur district in Karnataka State exhibit a range from moderately acidic to Slightly alkaline (5.24 to 8.02) pH levels, characterized by normal electrical conductivity (0.08 to 0.23 dSm-1) and low organic carbon content (0.11 to 0.54%) with a few exceptions. The assessment of available macronutrients indicated a low to medium in nitrogen (104.7 to 340.5 kg ha-1), whereas phosphorus (12 to 68 kg ha-1) and potassium (53.5 to 407.5 kg ha-1) levels varying from low to high. Additionally, the evaluation of available micronutrients revealed that all soil samples were either deficient to sufficient in iron (0.98 to 2.81 mg kg-1) and manganese (0.23 to 3.94 mg kg-1), whereas recorded sufficient to excessive levels of zinc (0.86 to 9.72 mg kg-1) and copper (1.55 to 17.58 mg kg-1). The findings of this research highlight the urgent need for intensive soil nutrient management due to the overexploitation of soil resources. The declining levels of critical parameters such as organic carbon suggested that the necessitating prompt action for the sustainable management of soil resources
Impact of Root Systems on Soil Structure and Hydraulic Properties: A Review of Mechanisms and Effects
No full textRoot systems are fundamental to soil health, influencing its structure and hydraulic properties through complex biophysical and biochemical mechanisms. This review examines the role of root architecture, root exudates, and root-induced mechanical effects in shaping soil porosity, aggregation, and water retention. Fine roots enhance microporosity, improving water retention, while coarse roots contribute to macroporosity and water infiltration. Root exudates serve as natural binders, stabilizing aggregates and fostering microbial activity, which further enhances soil structure. Additionally, root growth and decay create biopores, promoting water infiltration, drainage, and nutrient redistribution. These interactions significantly affect soil hydraulic conductivity, water-holding capacity, and erosion resistance, which are critical for sustainable agriculture and ecosystem resilience. By synthesizing current research, this review highlights strategies for leveraging root traits to optimize soil management practices and mitigate the impacts of environmental challenges such as water scarcity and soil degradation
Fungal-mediated Bioremediation of Textile Dyes Assesses the Decolorization Efficacy of Penicillium singorense and Aspergillus ochraceus
No full textThe textile sector significantly contributes to environmental pollution, mainly attributed to the release of dye effluents. These effluents contain toxic, recalcitrant compounds that adversely impact on aquatic ecosystems, soil integrity, and human well-being. This study intends to screen and investigate the possibilities of locally isolated river-derived fungi as agents for bioremediation of dye pollution and human health. Fungi obtained from the surface water of the Noyyal river in Tiruppur were evaluated for their capacity to decolorize synthetic dyes using the tube agar overlay technique. Of the 15 isolates tested, 2 isolates demonstrated complete dye decolourisation of 0.01% Congo red and Rose Bengal in two media (PDA and SMS). Results showed that the gene sequence analysis verified the identities of these dye decolorising fungi as Penicillium singorense. (NRS2), and Aspergillus ochraceus. (NRS15). Further assays in liquid media with varying dye concentrations (50 mg/l, 100 mg/l, 150 mg/l, and 200 mg/l) revealed that Penicillium singorense. decolorized Congo Red by 71% (50 mg/l), 81% (100 mg/l), 92% (150 mg/l), and 91% (200 mg/l). Decolorization of Rose Bengal exceeded 95% across all concentrations. Aspergillus ochraceus. decolorized Congo Red by 83% (50 mg/l), 89% (100 mg/l), 91% (150 mg/l), and 96% (200 mg/l), while Rose Bengal decolorization efficiency decreased with increasing concentration. Phytotoxicity studies using Triticum aestivum demonstrated reduced toxicity of dye decolourisation products compared to untreated dyes. These findings suggest the possible application of fungal isolate for sustainable bioremediation of textile dye wastewater
Assessment of Phenotypic Stability and Yield Performance in Three-Line Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Hybrids Across Nigeria Agro-ecologies
No full textRice (Oryza sativa L.) production in Nigeria faces significant challenges, with current average yields of 2.0 t/ha falling well below the global average of 4.5 t/ha. This study evaluated four hybrid rice genotypes (IR138867H, IR138840H, IR138982H and IR138758H) against three commercial checks (FARO 44, FARO 66, and FARO 68) across two contrasting agro-ecological zones in Nigeria. Using a randomized complete block design with three replications, key agronomic traits such as flowering time, plant height, panicle length, tiller number, maturity period, 1000-grain weight, and grain yield were assessed. Results indicated that plant height and panicle length were significantly influenced by environmental factors (P = .05). The hybrid IR138982H demonstrated superior performance with grain yields of 6.55 t/ha, representing a 22.91% yield advantage over the best commercial check (Faro 68). Significant (P = .05) difference in genotype-environment interactions were observed for flowering time, plant height, and grain yield, emphasizing the importance of location-specific hybrid deployment strategies. These findings have identified IR138982H as a promising hybrid candidate for improving rice productivity in Nigeria, supporting efforts to enhance domestic production and reduce import dependence
Bio-efficacy Studies of Biostimulant (Budmaker) in Relation to Growth, Yield and Shelf-Life of Super Sonaka Grape under Sangli Location, India
No full textGrape (Vitis vinifera L.) is a key crop in the Indian agricultural sector, with seedless varieties like Super Sonaka being highly valued for both domestic consumption and export due to their quality and market demand. However, the potential of these grapes is often limited by environmental stresses and suboptimal crop management practices. Budmaker, a potent blend of protein hydrolysate, cytokinin and TIBA, boosts bud differentiation, nutrient uptake and productivity. The current study evaluated the bio-efficacy of Budmaker, in improving the growth, yield and shelf life of Super Sonaka grapes under field conditions in Sangli, Maharashtra. Despite the growing importance of biostimulants in grapevine cultivation, there is limited research on their specific impact on grapes. To address this gap, this study applied Budmaker at three different growth stages with varying concentrations (400, 500 and 750 ml/acre) to determine the optimal dosage for enhancing vine performance. The aim of the research was to assess Budmakers effects on key agronomic parameters, such as shoot growth, berry quality and yield, while also examining its role in improving biochemical properties like phenol, protein, reducing sugar and chlorophyll content. Results indicated that Budmaker at 500 ml/acre significantly enhanced leaf area (165.17 cm²), chlorophyll content (16.00 mg/ml) and yield parameters, including bunch weight (550.40 g) and yield per vine (19.85 kg/vine). Additionally, the treatment improved biochemical properties such as phenol content (0.55 mg/g) and reducing sugars (293.60 mg/g), contributing to overall better grape quality and shelf life. However, the effectiveness of Budmaker is a sustainable solution for improving grapevine yield and quality
Optimizing French Bean Growth with Organic Manures in Agroforestry and Open Systems
No full textA field experiment was carried out during the Rabi seasons of 2022–23 and 2023–24 to evaluate the impact of organic manure on the growth performance of French bean cultivated organically within a poplar-based agroforestry system. The study aimed to assess how organic nutrient inputs influence plant development in this integrated land-use approach, emphasizing sustainability and resource efficiency. The trial was carried out in organic experimental block of Forest Nursery and Research Centre (College of Forestry) of Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences Prayagraj. The trial included levels of organic manure nutrient supply treatments. In Both the Shade and Open conditions the treatment T9 (FYM 50 %, Vermicompost 50 %, Poultry Manure 100) recommended dose of through organics produced the highest plant height, Number of branches and Number of leaves. Plant growth parameters such as plant height during shade (36.84 cm) and open (50.24cm). Number of Branches during shade (25.47) and open (26.20). No of Leaves during shade (24.40) and open (25.05) was recorded maximum. Application of recommended dose of FYM 50 %, Vermicompost 50 %, Poultry Manure 100 % recorded higher values for growth parameters like number of leaves, number of branches, and Plant height as compared to the treatment which received recommended dose of control only