Asian Journal of Advances in Agricultural Research
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Analysis of Climate Change Adaptation Strategies and Constraints Faced by Cocoa Farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria
No full textThis study analyzed the climate adaptation strategies and constraints faced by cocoa farmers in Cross River State, Nigeria, using the factor analysis. Primary data was collected using structured questionnaires to examine cocoa farmers' adaptation strategies for mitigating climate change effects on cocoa production and the challenges they face in adopting these strategies. This study identifies three major climate change adaptation strategies used by cocoa farmers, and these strategies explained 72.4% of the variance in the dataset. Factor 1 (crop management) includes practices like changing planting dates, drought-resistant varieties, and crop diversification. Factor 2 (water and soil conservation) focuses on irrigation, mulching, shade trees, and contour farming. Factor 3 (institutional and financial strategies) highlights training programs, weather forecasts, credit access, and collaboration. These strategies demostrated farmers' proactive efforts to manage climate risks through a combination of on-farm practices, resource management, and external support systems. The study also identifies key constraints faced by cocoa farmers in adapting to climate change using factor analysis. Two main factors explain 94.3% of the observed variance in adaptation constraints. Factor 1, (representing institutional, economic, and resource constraints), includes issues like price volatility, lack of mechanization, poor infrastructure, and limited access to technology, which hinder adaptation efforts. Factor 2 (social and organizational challenges), highlights challenges such as resistance to change, lack of training, ineffective cooperatives, and financial constraints. These barriers reduce productivity, limit resilience, and stall adaptation. The study calls for improved infrastructure, government support, cooperatives, and training to enhance farmers' capacity for climate adaptation
Evaluating the Efficiency of Microorganism-enriched Vermicompost on Potato Yield and Growth Parameters in Bahadurpur, India
No full textAn effort was made to compare the efficiency of the microbiologically treated vermicompost with conventionally prepared vermicompost through an on-farm trial. All the beneficial microbiological management practices, identified were put together to produce a microbially enriched vermicompost and the results of applications of this vermicompost was compared with those of traditionally prepared vermicompost under integrated plant nutrition system using potato as the test crop. It has been revealed that the study will help in developing a clear concept about the efficiency of such microbially enriched vermicompost in producing crops and maintaining soil fertility
Root System Architecture (RSA) and Drought Tolerance in Rice: Exploring Genetic Mechanisms and Genomic Approaches for Enhancing RSA
No full textRice is a staple food crop for half of the world's population. Its production and productivity are significantly affected by various abiotic and biotic factors. In recent years, drought has become a critical environmental challenge exacerbated by climate change. Rice is highly vulnerable to water scarcity and leading to substantial reduction in crop yield during drought conditions. However, it has various adaptive mechanisms to cope with adverse environmental conditions. The main objective of this study the mechanisms underlying rice adaptations to water scarcity through Root System Architecture (RSA) and explore novel genomic approaches utilized to enhance RSA. It explores morphological, physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms influencing RSA traits, underscoring the significance of deeper and well-distributed roots in alleviating water stress. Moreover, we discussed the role of key hormones, genes, Transcription Factors (TFs), metabolites, and key regulatory pathways governing RSA in rice. Genomics approaches such as multi-omics, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), and CRISPR-Cas9 are being leveraged to improve RSA traits. Additionally, we attempt to presents some promising rice genotypes and cultivars from major rice-growing countries, which have enhanced RSA, significant drought tolerance and yield potential under water stress. Moreover, utilization of these knowledge offers wider understanding for breeding rice cultivars with improved RSA that are well adapted to water-scarce environments, thereby contributing to global food security amid climate challenges
Assessment of Crop Water Productivity and Efficiency of Paddy Systems: A Comparison between Alternate Wetting and Drying and Conventional Flooding Methods
No full textWater scarcity is still among the major challenges facing rice production as the gap between available water supply and water demand is increasing in many parts of the world, limiting future expansion of irrigation. Crop water productivity for rice was evaluated using the alternate wetting and drying (AWD) and continuous flooding irrigation (CF) methods to come up with the best method with higher productivity (WP) and water use efficiency (WUE). An experiment was carried out at Hembeti irrigation scheme, Morogoro region in Tanzania to investigate WP and WUE of paddy systems comparing the AWD and CF methods. The experiment was done in 2 seasons starting from July to September 2023 and from September to November 2023 using a rice variety locally known as SARO MALOLO (cross of YY and Super) with 90 day-growing duration from nursery to harvest. Two treatments namely, AWD and CF were arranged in a randomized complete block design with 3 replications to form 6 experimental plots each with 1m2 area separated by a 1 m buffer zone to prevent lateral movement of water. Plant spacing used was 20cm x 20cm forming 25 plants per square meter (1 seedling per hill). Several growth variables were monitored and data collected on daily and weekly basis. The growth parameters monitored were plant height, canopy cover, number of tillers and productive tillers, number of panicles and grain number. Findings show that WP was 4.05kgm-3 for AWD plots and 1.21kgm-3 for CF. It also shows that AWD achieved 75% of WUE compared to 41% in CF. Furthermore, AWD gave higher dry yield of 1.52 t ha⁻¹ than 1.33 t ha⁻¹ of dry yield in CF. This indicates that AWD performed much better compared to CF in terms of water use and yield. The results also showed that there was no significance difference in the number of productive tillers and panicles for both treatments at p=0.05, but with slight variation (significance difference) between the seasons and between the replicates. Results also showed significance difference in the amount of water applied and consumed for both treatments at p=0.05, where AWD managed to save 65.8% of irrigation water meaning AWD is the best method for regions with water scarcity as it can maintain or improve yield but with an advantage of less water input
Genetic Variability for Morpho-physiological Characters in Soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merrill]
No full textIn an experiment, fifteen soybean genotypes were evaluated in Randomized Block Design with three replications, to access the genetic variability for yield and its contributing traits during kharif 2021 at the research field of Department of Agricultural Botany, Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Krishi Vidyapeeth, Akola (MH). The results revealed that, KDS-753 (81.42 cm) recorded highest plant height; leaf area (34.01 dm2) was observed highest in KDS-228. The Chlorophyll stability index (39.12) and RGR (0.0135 g/g/day) were recorded highest in KDS-344 (39.12); while 50% flowering (49.00 DAS) and dry matter production (37.67g) was recorded highest in MAUS-162(49.00 DAS). Days to maturity was recorded highest in AMS-2014-1 (105.33 DAS). Net assimilation rate was recorded highest in MACS-1281 (0.0135g/dm2/day). Least range of GCV and PCV observed for days to maturity (3.443% and 3.962% respectively); while high range of GCV and PCV observed for RGR (37.579% and 45.571% respectively). High range for heritability observed in total dry matter (79.545%). Genetic advance as a percent mean observed higher in total dry matter production (74.481). In the present study the traits, total dry matter and plant height showed high heritability with high genetic advance indicating direct selection for such traits is rewarding in crop improvement
Agricultural Transformation and its Contribution to Economic Development in South Asian and African Countries
No full textAgricultural transformation is central to economic development, driving modernization, productivity enhancement, and integration into broader economic systems. This study compares South Asia and Africa, analyzing their distinct trajectories influenced by sustainable practices, policy reforms, and technological advancements. In South Asia, agricultural employment declined sharply, with Bangladesh dropping from 80% in 1973 to 35% in 2023, and India from 70% to 37%. Africa saw a more gradual decline, from 70% to 48% during the same period. Productivity improvements highlight regional progress, with agricultural productivity growth rising in Bangladesh (3.3% to 4.1% by 2023) and Kenya (3.3% to 4.1%), while manufacturing productivity surged in Kenya (6.6%) and India (5.2%). South Asia's growth leverages high-yield crops and market integration from the Green Revolution, while Africa focuses on climate-smart agriculture, diversification, and community-based solutions to address climate vulnerabilities and infrastructure gaps. Both regions emphasize sustainability as a resilience strategy. Using a four-stage paradigm of agricultural transformation, the study underscores the significance of transitioning from subsistence to high-value, technology-driven agriculture for economic diversification and resilience. By analyzing labor productivity, GDP per capita, and crop production indices, the research demonstrates agriculture's critical role in fostering sustainable development and economic growth across both regions
Case Studies of Farmers Growing Organic Food Products Near Udaipur City, Rajasthan, India
No full textOrganic farming certainly holds significant promise, especially in the country like India with its diverse agro-climatic conditions and rich tradition of sustainable practices. Organic food products have grown in popularity due to increasing consumer awareness of health, environmental, and ethical concerns. While they often cost more due to more labor-intensive farming practices, many people believe the benefits outweigh the extra cost. A case study of organic farming in Udaipur highlights the use of sustainable methods such as vermicomposting, Amrit Jal (organic pesticide), and Amrit Mitti (organic fertilizer) by farmers growing cereals, pulses, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. These farmers rely on natural methods to improve soil health and control pests, promoting eco-friendly practices. Despite challenges like the cost of certification, labor intensity, and market access, there are growing opportunities due to the increasing demand for organic products. The rising consumer awareness of health and environmental benefits offers farmers a chance to sell their produce at premium prices, contributing to both sustainability and local economic growth. Farmers in Udaipur growing organic crops receive support from NGOs and local shopkeepers, which helps with finance, technical guidance, and marketing. However, they face challenges such as limited access to quality seeds, inadequate government support, and low or delayed profits from shopkeepers. They also wish to expand production but lack the financial resources for larger land, quality seeds, and organic manure. Despite these obstacles, their motivation to grow more varieties and improve productivity remains strong
Evaluation of Seed Health Status of Some Selected Podded and Root Vegetables in Bangladesh
No full textEvaluating the seed health status of selected vegetables in Bangladesh is crucial for sustainable agriculture and food security, as seed-borne pathogens can significantly reduce crop yield and quality. Identifying and mitigating these pathogens at the seed level helps prevent their spread, protect genetic resources, and reduce reliance on chemical interventions. It provides valuable insights into pathogen prevalence and diversity, supporting the development of effective management strategies for healthier crop production. The seed health status of podded vegetable crops, such as yard long beans and country beans, and root vegetables, including bottle gourds, sweet gourds, and sponge gourds, was examined in 2015 at the Seed Health Laboratory (SHL) of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University. Loose seeds from each crop were collected from various wholesale seed markets in Dhaka. Two seed health assessment methods recommended by ISTA were employed: dry seed examination and the blotter method. The prevalence of seed-borne fungi varied significantly across different vegetable seeds, depending on the seed category and source. Six seed-borne fungi were identified in the examined seeds of three vegetable crop groups: Rhizopus spp., Aspergillus niger, Aspergillus flavus, Fusarium sp., Chaetomium sp., and Alternaria spp. All six fungi were detected in the seeds of podded vegetables, while five were found in the seeds of leafy vegetables. Using the blotter method, seeds from Alo Bij Vander exhibited the highest level of fungal infection, whereas seeds from Bismillah Seed Store showed the lowest level. Among the crops, radish seeds displayed the highest frequency of seed-borne fungi, while yard long beans had the lowest. Based on the findings, it was evident that the health condition of loose vegetable seeds was substandard. However, further research with more representative seed samples from various markets across Bangladesh is necessary to provide a comprehensive understanding of seed health in relation to different seed sources
Adaptation of Coastal Farmers to Increasing Salinity in Selected Coastal Area of Bangladesh
No full textThe present study evaluated the adaptation measures taken by the coastal farmers of Bangladesh to cope with the increasing salinity. Mixed method including key informant interview, household survey was used to collect data from 80 respondents who were selected as a sample following disproportionate random sampling technique. The study exhibits the poor socio-economic condition of the respondents in the study areas. Disappearing of agricultural land with diminished productivity was the major challenge they faced due to increasing salinity. Around 82.0% of the respondents adopted medium to high-level adaptation strategies in response to salinity management. Among the selected characteristics, only age and family size showed significant and positive contribution to adaptation. Adopting adequate adaption mechanisms will assist coastal farmers’ sustainability in the changing climatic situation and environmental hazards. The current research is important for the relevant policymakers formulating policy for the coastal farmers
Prevalence of Gastrointestinal Parasites in Sheep, Goats and Zoonotic Helminths in Maekel Region, Eritrea
No full textAim: To determine the prevalence of GIT parasites in sheep and goats and zoonotic helminths from slaughter house in the Maekel region, Eritrea.
Study Design: The study involved firstly a cross-sectional study which screened 384 sheep and goats for GIT parasites from four study villages of Maekel region and a questionnaire survey on risk factors associated with GIT parasite infections. Secondly, retrospective data (2022,2023) on zoonotic helminths was also collected from slaughter house in Maekel region.
Place and Duration of Study: Maekel region of Eritrea between January 5,2024 to December 11,2024.
Methodology: A total of 384 feacal samples were collected from sheep and goats to determine the prevalence of gastrointestinal parasites. Fresh fecal samples were collected and transported to National Animal and Plant health laboratory (NAPHL) in Eritrea, for analysis using floatation and sedimentation techniques for microscopic examination. Questionnaire survey was also carried out on 40 farmers to determine the risk factors associated with helminth infections in the region.
Results: Parasites identified included of Haemonchus sp. (27.2%), Eimeria sp (19.79%), Cooperia sp. (15.9%), Strongyloides sp. (11.9%), Monezia species (7.8%), Ascaris sp (5.5%), Dictyocaylus filarial(5.2%), Paramphistomum cervi (5.2%), Oesophagostomum columbianum (3.7%), Chabertia ovina (3.7%), Trichuris globulosa (3.4%), among others. The risk factors associated with GIT parasites included poor housing, mixed housing, sharing of water sources with other livestock, irregular deworming and illiteracy. Zoonotic parasites reported from slaughter house included hydatid cysts, Strongyloides, Trichuris, Ascaris, Paraphastumun, Dictyocaulus filarial, Haemonchus sp and Faciola sp.
Conclusion: Maekel region had high prevalence of parasitic helminths in sheep and goats which negatively impact on the small ruminants’ production. Most importantly are the zoonotic NTDs including Echinococcosis, Strongyloides, Trichuris, Ascaris, Paraphastumun, Dictyocaulus filarial, Haemonchus sp and Faciola sp which indicates that the animals could be reservoir hosts and play role of reinfection to humans