Asian Journal of Agriculture and Allied Sciences
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Biology, Molecular Genetics, and Host Interactions of Soybean Mosaic Virus
Soybean mosaic virus (SMV), a member of the Potyviridae family, is one of the most economically significant viruses affecting soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) crops globally. This review comprehensively examines the virological and genetic characteristics of SMV, its transmission mechanisms, host specificity, genomic structure, and the functional roles of its proteins, as well as the immune response of the host plant. The roles of viral proteins such as HC-Pro and CP, along with the DAG, KLSC, and PTK motifs, are critically analyzed for their contribution to aphid- and seed-mediated transmission. Genetic diversity and inter-strain differences in SMV isolates from the USA, China, Korea, and other regions, including evidence of recombination and mutation-driven evolution, are presented. Host resistance genes such as Rsv1, Rsv3, and Rsv4 mediate hypersensitive and extreme resistance, with molecular determinants including P3, HC-Pro, and CI proteins. This paper also analyzes the plant's defensive mechanisms, including salicylic acid, jasmonate, and ethylene signalling pathways, reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, and the expression of pathogenesis-related (PR) genes. These findings provide crucial insights for breeding SMV-resistant soybean cultivars and developing integrated control strategies. The study insights form a foundation for the development of SMV-resistant soybean cultivars, the implementation of marker-assisted selection (MAS) strategies, and the design of integrated disease management programs tailored to the molecular biology of the virus and its interaction with the soybean host
Influence of Extracts from Euphorbia helioscopia L. and Oxalis corniculata L. on the Germination and Seedling Development of Triticum aestivum L.
Allelopathy refers to a biological phenomenon in which one plant releases biochemicals that influence the germination and growth of neighbouring plants. This study evaluated the allelopathic potential of two common weeds, Euphorbia helioscopia L. and Oxalis corniculata L., on the germination and early growth of Triticum aestivum L. The experiment was conducted under a completely randomised design (CRD) with three replications per treatment. Aqueous extracts were prepared from fresh shoots and roots at concentrations of 5%, 10%, and 15% (w/v), while dry plant material was mixed with sterile sand for mulching treatments. A distilled water control was included. Germination and growth parameters were recorded after 72 hours of incubation at 25 °C. Results indicated that aqueous extracts from both weeds significantly (p < 0.05) reduced wheat germination percentage, plumule and radicle length, and root number compared with the control. However, low concentrations (5%) and mixed shoot extracts exhibited mild stimulatory effects, increasing radicle length to 6.2 cm and plumule length to 9.0 cm, compared with 5.3 cm and 6.6 cm in the control, respectively. Mulching treatments consistently inhibited germination and seedling growth, except the mixed treatment, which slightly enhanced leaf area (2.1 cm² vs. 1.5 cm² in the control). These findings suggest that E. helioscopia and O. corniculata produce bioactive compounds that can suppress wheat germination and growth. Their strong allelopathic potential warrants further investigation for possible applications in natural weed and pest management
Evaluation of Improved Durum Wheat (Triticum turgidum var. durum) Varieties in North Shewa Oromia
Evaluating durum wheat varieties in various conditions is crucial in determining their stability performance and adaptability. In this study, 10 durum wheat varieties were evaluated in four sites to examine genotype-environment (G E) interactions and their effect on yield stability across varied environments. A field experiment was conducted at the four stations of Fitche Agricultural research center for two consecutive years. The experiment was layout in Randomized Completed Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Nine agronomic and yield-related trait data were evaluated and analyzed. The pooled over- locations analysis result indicated that significant differences among tested varieties for most traits including grain yield were observed. The maximum grain yield was recorded from Gerardo variety with mean of 2156.2kgha-1 where as the minimum was recorded from Tesfaye variety. The results of the GGE biplot revealed that the variety "Gerardo" is stable across the testing locations since it is situated inside the concentric circle. In order to enhance the production of durum wheat in Northern Oromia other similar ecologies, the Gerardo variety was found to be the most stable and productive variety
On Farm Participatory Evaluation and Demonstration of Improved Tomato (Lycopersicum esculentum Mill.) Varieties Under Irrigation Condition in South-Eastern Ethiopia
In Ethiopia, tomatoes are one of the most economically important vegetable crops. However, a number of factors, including a lack of improved and adapted tomato varieties, limit their productivity and production. A field study was conducted during the 2020 -2021 cropping season at Arsi areas, Tiyo, and Zuway Dugda districts and aimed to evaluate the performance of released tomato varieties, on-farm demonstrations, and varietal selection based on farmers’ preferences. Six released tomato varieties, Chali, Melkashola, Melkasalsa, Eshete, ARP-D2, and Fetan were planted on basic plots at farms and replicated at the research station. Data were collected on growth, yield and yield related traits from the mother trials and farmers perception on the demo varietal trials. The analysis of variance revealed that the tested varieties had significant differences (P≤0.05) in yield and yield-related traits. As a result, Gelilema variety had significant marketable yield (55.91 t ha-1) and total yield (65.24 t ha-1), followed by Melkashola variety with marketable yield (47.42 t ha-1) and total yield (59.12 t ha-1). Total fruit yield correlated positively and significantly with marketable yield (0.89), average fruit weight (0.87), number of fruit per cluster (0.65), number of cluster per plant (0.97), and was negatively associated with plant height (-0.05). Farmers' preferred traits, such as higher fruit yield, better disease tolerance, fruit size, shape, transportability, and higher market demand, were used to rank the most preferred varieties at both distinct areas. At Golja kebele, Gelilema was the most preferred and best-performing variety, followed by Melkashola. At Zuway Dugda, Melkashola and Melkasalsa were selected as the first and second choices, respectively. As a result, in order to address the demand of the farming community public agricultural extension and other stakeholders should promote the selected improved tomato varieties from smallholder farmers to large-scale production in the area of study and comparable agro-ecologies
Stem Rust (Puccinia graminis f.sp tritici) Management in Wheat through Fungicide Spray Frequencies in Central Ethiopia
Among various wheat diseases, stem rust caused by Puccinia graminis f. sp. Tritici is the most striking, contributing to large yield losses in Ethiopia. The effect of fungicide spray frequency on yield components of bread wheat was studied under natural infection conditions at Mareko and Dalocha during 2021 growing season. Two different fungicides, namely, Nativo SC 300 (trifloxystrobin 100 g/l + tebuconazole 200 g/l) at 0.75 l/ha and Tilt® 250EC (propiconazole) at 0.5 l/ha, were compared in field at three spraying frequencies. Experiment was in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Unsprayed controls were also included for comparison. The disease resulted in relative grain loss up to 53.5% at Dalocha and 41.9% at Mareko in control plots. However, terminal rust severity, average coefficient of infection and AUDPC values were significantly (p<0.05) reduced due to frequent fungicide application. Compared with those the untreated plots, thousand kernel weight and grain yield increased (p ≤ 0.05) in fungicide-treated plots. Moreover, Nativo SC 300 provided the greatest increase in yield and was found effective in decreasing stem rust across both locations. Significant negative correlations were observed between TRS, ACI and AUDPC and between grain yield, kernel per spike and TKW, with correlation coefficients ranging from r=-0.85** to r=-0.33**. Cost-benefit analysis revealed, the combined use of Nativo SC 300 three times at ten-day intervals provides the greatest net benefit and is the best management strategy
A Narrative Review on Transforming Finger Millet (Eleusine coracana) into a Superfood through Germination
Millets have been a staple grain for ages, they are essential for maintaining food security in semiarid region. They are considered as a functional food because of their low glycemic index, gluten-free status and high dietary fiber and mineral content. Finger millet is a type of major millet. It is known by different names in different regions. Finger millet is one of the most nutrient-dense grain because of its high protein content and well-balanced amino acid profile. It contains high level of various micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals such as riboflavin, nicotinic acid, thiamine, calcium, phosphorus, and iron content. Numerous processing methods, including popping, roasting, germination, fermentation, and others, have been shown to improve the nutritional profile. Germination was determined to be the most effective processing method out of all of them. It aided in enhancing the nutritional profile, reducing the level of anti-nutrients and improving the functional properties of finger millet which ultimately improved sensory aspects, which aids in the creation of a variety of food products with enhanced nutritional content and sensory qualities. Thus, the present review study focuses on understanding the significance of finger millet with the help of various processing techniques and the role of germination on finger millet and its value-added product
Cinnamon: A Review on the Medicinal Plant and Its Health Benefits
Cinnamon is a spice used daily by people as a traditional medicine for centuries all over the world. It is an evergreen plant, and its leaves and bark are good sources of oil. It belongs to the family of Lauraceae. The main species of commercially cultivated cinnamon are Cinnamomum verum, Cinnamomum burmannii, Cinnamomum cassia, and Cinnamomum loureiroi. The objective of this review is to discuss the uses, chemical composition, nutritional composition, toxicity, and the potential role of cinnamon in overall health management. For this review, extensive bibliographic research was conducted, utilising keywords such as its uses, chemical composition, nutritional composition, health benefits, and toxicity. Key findings conclude that cinnamon possesses antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, Insecticidal, anti-tumour, neuroprotective, nephroprotective, anti-obesity, cardioprotective, anti-hypertensive, anti-allergic, hepatoprotective, immunomodulatory, and gastroprotective properties. Moreover, the nutrient composition revealed that it is a great source of dietary fibre and minerals. This review focuses on summarizing the most relevant literature to highlight the health benefits of cinnamon and its nutritional and chemical properties
Prevalence and Economic Implications of Foetal Wastage in Small Ruminants (Sheep and Goats) Slaughtered at Jalingo Abattoir, Taraba State, Nigeria
The slaughter of pregnant small ruminants resulting in fetal loss represents a significant constraint to livestock production and contributes to protein deficiency in developing countries. This study investigated the prevalence of fetal wastage in small ruminants and its associated economic implications at Jalingo Abattoir in Taraba State, Nigeria. A cross-sectional study was conducted over six months, spanning September 2023 through February 2024. Daily abattoir visits were undertaken to record the total number of sheep and goats slaughtered, examine uteri of slaughtered females for the presence of fetuses, and determine fetal age, sex, and breed through crown-rump length measurements. Economic losses were quantified using prevailing local market values, and data analysis employed descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests. Results showed that 3,785 sheep and 8,662 goats were slaughtered during the study period, with females comprising 75.06% of sheep and 31.10% of goats. Pregnancy was detected in 22.56% of ewes and 20.75% of does among slaughtered females. A total of 678 lamb fetuses and 643 kid fetuses were recovered, yielding prevalence rates of 23.86% and 23.87%, respectively. Female fetuses predominated in both species (53.10% in sheep; 52.57% in goats). The majority of fetuses were in their second or third trimesters, indicating advanced gestational stages. Yankasa sheep and Sokoto Red goats emerged as the most affected breeds. Economic losses over the six-month study period were estimated at ₦5,962,000, projecting to an annual loss of ₦11,924,000. These findings highlight the critical need for enhanced ante-mortem inspection protocols, farmer education on pregnancy detection methods, and stricter enforcement of regulations prohibiting the slaughter of pregnant animals to improve livestock productivity and strengthen food security
Assessing Genetic Variability and Heritability in Genotypes of Garlic (Allium sativum L.) for Bulb Yield and Related Traits
Assessing the genetic diversity of crop species is one of the main objectives of plant breeding since it helps with the creation of breeding strategies. Thus, the purpose of this field experiment was to evaluate the genetic diversity and mean performance of garlic genotypes on bulb yield and associated variables. The field evaluation of nineteen garlic genotypes and one released variety HL was conducted at Kulumsa Agricultural Research Center using a randomized complete block design with three replications during the main growing seasons of 2020 and 2021. The analysis of variance indicated there were significant differences among the genotypes for all traits except days to physiological maturity in 2020 season, while only some growth and yield traits are significant in 2021 production season. Some of the genotypes GOG-065/18, GOG-057/18, GOG-047/18, GOG-064/18, GOG-068/18, GOG-045/18, and GOG-018/18 had mean performances higher than the standard check variety HL. The highest significant bulb yield was observed on the genotype G-067/18 (9.63 t ha-1) and GOG-057/18 (9.90 t ha-1) in 2020 and 2021 season respectively. Highest phenotypic (PCV) and genotypic (GCV) coefficients of variation recorded for total bulb yield tons per hectare and number of cloves per bulb, while the days to physiological maturity had the lowest heritability (h2b) in broad sense and genetic advance as a percent of mean (GAM), 67% and 33.89% (total bulb yield per hectare) and 1.13% to 0.08% (day to physiological maturity) respectively. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficients of variation attached with high heritability and genetic advance as percent of mean were observed for total bulb yield tons per hectare number of cloves per bulb and clove weight. Therefore, selection for these characters would be effective for selecting genotypes for future garlic breeding programs
Evaluation of Advanced Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Genotypes for Yield and Yield Related Traits under High Potential Environments
The trial evaluated twenty two (22) advanced Faba bean genotypes included two standard checks using randomized complete block design (RCBD) design with two replications at four testing locations with the objectives of to evaluate genetic variability, assess associations of characters, estimate the effects of genotype, environment, and genotype x environment interaction on grain yield. The ANOVA result showed highly significant (p<0.01) differences were recorded among genotypes and location for days to flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number of pods per plant, disease data except grain yield. From AMMI analysis, environment, genotype and their interaction had about 59%, 4.1% and 11.4% contributions of the total sum of squares respectively. Result indicated that the environments were diverse and causing most of the variation in genotypes. Genotypic coefficient of variation were recorded from the lowest to medium GCV for days to maturity and thousand seed weight respectively. Higher heritability values were estimated from days to flowering, plant height, number of pod per plant and thousands seed weight, indicating that the direct selection of this traits can be practiced in the evaluation of advanced Faba bean genotypes. Grain yield showed highly significant (p<0.01) and positive associations with traits of number of pods per plant this indicates that direct effects of traits on grain yield. According to AMMI2 biplot, the first two IPCA cumulatively accounted about 87.4% of the total genotype environment interactions, the first IPCA1 and second IPCA2 described about 53% and about 34.3% of the total sum square of genotype × environment interaction. Based on ASV scores the genotypes EK 05037-5, EK 05001-1 and EH 06006-6 had the lowest ASV score, thus which were the most widely stable genotypes across environments