Journal of Agriculture and Ecology Research International
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Effect of Concentrate Feed Levels on Body Weight of Sheep and Goats under Small Scale Farmers in El-ogden and Denan Districts, Somali, Region, Eastern Ethiopia
No full textTwo woredas, Elogaden and Denan woredas, were used for the experiment, from this, two kebelas and ten agro-pastoralists were selected from each woreda, for a total of twenty agro- pastoralist and four kebelas. To carry out the experiment, two hundred male shoats 100 sheep and 100 goats were chosen at random from the selected kebelas. Based on their starting live weight, the experimental shoats were split up into four groups, each of which had 50 shoats for a total of 200 shoats. Following that, each group was split into four dietary treatment groups at random, each of which received varying amounts of concentrate feeds. The treatments were set up as follows: The experimental shoats were split up into four groups, each of which had 50 shoats for a total of 200 shoats... The design used was randomized complete design (RCD). With five dietary treatments. Shoats\u27 Reactions to the Supplement, With the exception of the control group, every shoat progressed better in every group. Shoats\u27 reactions to the supplementation in all agro pastoralists are shown in Tables 1 through 4. that indicates an increase in the experimental shoats\u27 ultimate live body weights and overall weight gains; as a result, the body weight of the experimental shoats was observed to be rising as the concentrate mixture level rose. "Shoats on T3 reached an average final weight of 22.234± 1.55 kg, significantly higher than the 13.89± 1.89 kg in the control group T4"), this is followed by T2 and T1 which has reached an average final weight of 19.84 ± 3.48Kg and 17.13 ± 2.45 kg respectively, which were significantly higher than the control group T4 which has an average final weight of 13.89± 1.89 Kg. This might be due to supplementation of concentrate feed that contain high protein, energy, vitamins and minerals and low in crude fiber content that meats the nutritional requirement of the animals. in addition to this, the concentrate feed plays a critical role for rumen micro-organisms functioning and declining the greenhouse gas emissions, thereby, promoting the growth and weight gain of the shoats. With this regard, the concentrated nutrient present in the concentrate feed supports the shoat efficiently convert their feed into body mass, leading to improved weight gain and ultimately higher meat yield then shoats supplied only roughages because the roughage has high structural carbohydrates (ADF, ADL and NDF) that leads poor growth and poor weight gain. As a result, concentrate feed had demonstrated encouraging increases in live body weight and provided agro pastoralists with strong financial returns. The highest final body weight was attained in T3 and T2 experimental shoats supplemented in concentrate feed That allows shoats to obtain a higher concentration of essential nutrients in a smaller amount of feed. This efficiency not only reduces wastage of feed and time but also ensures that shoat receive the required nutrients without consuming excessive quantities of feed, which results in reduced overall feed costs over time. This reduction in wastage not only contributes to economic savings and better overall feed management but also reduces the environmental impact of feed production. Therefore, it is obviously clear that the concentrate feed supplementation plays an important role in meeting the country and world demand for meat. At the end my recommendation to the pastoral and agro-pastoral communities and commercial livestock investors are to use high quality concentrate feed as animal feed supplementation that can yield positive returns in terms of higher meat, leading to increased sales and profitability for your farming operation. Nevertheless, bearing in mind the economic and environmental factors associated with concentrate feed supports guarantee and the long-term feasibility of your livestock business. Competent feed utilization, cost savings, and reduced environmental impact position your farm for victory in a progressively economical and environmentally cognizant market
Studies on Genetic Variability, Heritability and Genetic Advance in Superior Recombinant Inbred Lines of Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.)
No full textThe study of genetic parameters was conducted to assess genetic variability, heritability, and genetic advance in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.). Sixteen advanced recombinant inbred lines (RILs) along with two commercial varieties, Anagha and Arka Vikas, were evaluated using a randomized block design with three replications. High phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) and genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) was observed for average fruit weight (g), number of locules per fruit, pericarp thickness (mm), number of fruits per cluster, fruit yield per hectare (t), fruit yield per plant (kg), number of branches per plant at 60 DAT and number of fruits per plant. This indicates the presence of sufficient variability in the superior RILs studied for the above traits and offers good scope for crop improvement by simple selection strategies. High broad sense of heritability was observed for all the traits studied. High heritability estimates combined with substantial genetic advance as a percentage of the mean (GAM) were observed for all traits studied, except for days to first flowering, days to 50% flowering, pH, and TSS. This suggests that additive genetic effects predominantly control these traits, indicating that direct selection would be more effective for their improvement
Review of Coir Pith as Agro‐industrial Waste: Environmental Challenges and Management Approaches
No full textCoir pith, a major byproduct of the coconut processing industry, has traditionally been considered a low-value waste due to its high lignin content and imbalanced carbon-to-nitrogen (C:N) ratio. These properties make it highly resistant to microbial degradation, leading to prolonged accumulation, methane emissions and toxic leachate generation. However, recognizing these environmental challenges, innovative recycling technologies have emerged to transform coir pith into a valuable agricultural resource, turning waste into opportunity for sustainable farming. A significant breakthrough in this field is NOVCOM composting technology, which overcomes the limitations of conventional methods by optimizing aerobic conditions through controlled aeration, precise temperature regulation, and targeted microbial inoculation. This approach accelerates the breakdown of lignocellulosic material, effectively lowering the C:N ratio and ensuring rapid stabilization of organic matter. By doing so, NOVCOM composting technology not only significantly reduces methane emission- a major contributor to climate change- but also enhances the quality of the quality of final compost, making it a more effective soil amendment. Complementing this innovation is Inhana Rational Farming Technology, a nature friendly sustainable farming system that integrates soil and plant health management to revitalize the soil ecosystem. This holistic approach enhances nutrient cycling, boosts microbial activity, and supports long-term Agricultural sustainability. Field trials conducted under the IBM-IORF Sustainability Project have demonstrated that combining NOVCOM composting technology with Inhana’s methodologies not only shortens the composting cycle but also rejuvenate soil vitality towards long term sustainability, ensuring resilient crop production. Together, these technologies create a robust model for a circular bio-economy, transforming coir pith waste into a high-value agricultural input. This integrated strategy not only mitigates the environmental footprint of coir pith through greenhouse gas reduction and land restoration but also strengthens food security and foster a sustainable regenerative agricultural system
Use of Banana Rachis Leachate as Fertilizer Characterization and Effects on Soil and Crops
No full textAims: Banana (Musa paradisiaca) cultivation plays a significant role in Argentina\u27s regional economies, generating substantial crop residues, including the rachis of the infructescence. The production of leachates from rachis presents an opportunity to enhance sustainability in agricultural systems.
Study Design: This study aimed to characterize the physicochemical properties of banana rachis leachate produced under controlled conditions in Formosa, Argentina, and evaluate its effects on a reference horticultural crop and its substrate.
Place and Duration of Study: Agricultural Technology Validation Center (ATVC) Misión Tacaaglé, Formosa, Argentina; between 2021 and 2023.
Methodology: Leachate production followed a standardized protocol, including (i) identification of the fruit’s origin, (ii) processing of freshly cut rachis into sections and (iii) placement of the rachis pieces into a leaching pool equipped with a drainage system. The leachate exhibited high potassium (4,871.9 mg L⁻¹), alkaline pH (8.2) and high electric conductivity (18.9 dS.m⁻¹,) too. The total nitrogen and phosphorus contents were respectively 392.0 mg.L⁻¹ and 124 mg.L⁻¹. A pot trial with lettuce (Lactuca sativa) was conducted on which the evaluated leachate was applied. The treatments were T1 (Control, whit no fertilization), T2 (Urea application), T3 (Leachate application) and T4 (Combined application, leachate and urea).
Results: Leachate applications (T3 and T4) had no negative impact on plant survival, whereas T2 (urea-only treatment) caused a 33.33% mortality rate. T3 significantly enhanced lettuce growth, particularly in plant height and leaf number, while T4 did not differ significantly from the control.
T3 had no adverse effects on soil properties and increased K availability. In contrast, urea-containing treatments (T2 and T4) caused soil acidification and increased soluble salts, particularly Ca²⁺ and Mg²⁺, leading to decreased SAR values.
Conclusion: The results suggest that leachates produced under controlled conditions can serve as a nutrient source, particularly potassium, for intensive crops. Further research is needed to refine application rates, methods, and their effects on different crops
Contingency Crop Planning for Parbhani Region of Marathwada Based on Rainfall Analysis
No full textClimate change and variability pose significant challenges to global agriculture, particularly in regions reliant on rainfed farming systems. Erratic rainfall patterns, prolonged dry spells, and extreme weather events disrupt traditional cropping practices. Contingency crop planning is a crucial strategy for enhancing agricultural productivity, emerges as a proactive approach, allowing stakeholders to adjust crop choices and management practices in response to unexpected conditions. In the present study, the contingency crop planning was suggested on the basis of Markov chain probability model to determine the dry and wet week probabilities and onset and withdrawal of rainy season for Parbhani using 30 years (1991 to 2020) weekly rainfall data. The data on onset and withdrawal of rainy season indicated that the monsoon starts on the 23rd SMW (04th June – 10th June) and remains active up to the 42nd week (15th – 21st October). Based on the mean rainfall, onset and withdrawal of the effective monsoon, and the initial and conditional probability at various important growth phases of certain rabi and kharif crops. The suggested crop management plan has been created after contingency measures, such as standard meteorological week (SMW) for sowing, protective irrigation, and hoeing operations, were identified for the study area
Allelopathic Effects of Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray) Aqueous Extract on Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Test Plants Germination and Early Growth
No full textAims: This study aims to assess the allelopathic effects of Mexican sunflower (Tithonia diversifolia (Hemsl) A. Gray) on rice seed germination as test plant, determine the optimal extract concentration for inhibiting vegetative growth of rice (Oryza sativa L.), and establish the IC₅₀ value through a laboratory bioassay.
Study Design: The experiment used a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with five levels of Mexican sunflower extract concentration (0%, 2.5%, 5%, 7.5%, and 10%) conducted in both laboratory and greenhouse.
Time and Location Site: This study was conducted from November 2024 to January 2025 at the Agronomy Laboratory and Medan Baru Experimental Farm in Kandang Limun, Muara Bengkulu District, Bengkulu City, Indonesia, about 15 m above sea level.
Methodology: The study consisted of two stages. In the laboratory, 25 rice seeds were placed in Petri dishes containing different concentrations of Mexican sunflower extract to observe germination and early growth for 7 days. In the greenhouse, germinated seedlings were transplanted into soil-manure mixtures and grown for 60 days to evaluate vegetative parameters. Data were analyzed using ANOVA, followed by polynomial regression and LSD tests. IC₅₀ values were calculated to determine phytotoxic potency.
Results: Mexican sunflower extract significantly suppressed rice germination and growth, especially at higher concentrations. The most sensitive response was abnormal seedling percentage (IC₅₀ = 5.59%), followed by radicle length (7.82%) and plumule length (8.81%). At 10% extract concentration, there was a notable reduction in plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content, and biomass. Radicle growth was more affected than plumule, indicating root sensitivity to allelochemicals.
Conclusion: Mexican sunflower shows strong allelopathic effects on rice, especially at higher extract concentrations. Radicle development is more sensitive than plumule growth, indicating early root exposure to allelochemicals. These findings highlight Mexican sunflower\u27s potential as a natural bioherbicide. Further studies using weed species as test plants are recommended to explore its practical application in sustainable weed management
Strengthening Farmers\u27 Institutions Based on Social Capital in Supporting Food Security in Kutai Kartanegara District, Indonesia
No full textInstitutional arrangement and strengthening can be done by utilizing the values and governance of farmer institutions that already exist in the community as social capital as a reinforcement to become an institution that can support the guarantee of food availability. The purpose of the study was to identify the characteristics typology and existence of farmer institutions based on social capital, and analyze the factors that encourage and inhibit the existence and strengthening of farmer institutions needed to support food security in Kutai Kartanegara Regency. This research was conducted from June to August 2024 in the agricultural area of Kutai Kartanegara Regency, especially in Bukit Pariaman Village, Tenggarong Seberang District, and in Manunggal Daya Village, Sebulu District. The respondent determination technique used a purposive sampling method originating from farmers who are heads of farmer groups, agricultural institutions, village officials, and managers of farmer institutions at the research location, determining the number of samples using the linear time function method, namely 30 respondents. Data analysis was carried out using a qualitative descriptive method. The results of the study indicate that farmer institutions in the buffer zone of the National Capital Region (IKN) of Kutai Kartanegara Regency are still not in accordance with the institutional characteristics recommended by the Ministry in supporting food security; The typology of farmer institutions based on community social capital in increasing food crop productivity and farmer income is accepted and included in the moderate category; In Bukit Pariaman Village, it shows that the role of Farmer Institutions is not optimal, while in Manunggal Jaya Village, the role of farmer institutions is quite optimal and provides high motivation for farmers to be more advanced; and the strategy of strengthening farmer institutions can be done by strengthening farmer capacity, improving farmer institutional management and the role of associations so that their existence can be sustainable and provide a significant impact to support food availability, food access, and food distribution, especially to meet food needs in the National Capital Region (IKN)
Pre-Scaling Up of Modern Beekeeping Technology in Lowanaje Kebele of Dambal District, Sitti Zone, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia
No full textBeekeeping in Ethiopia particularly in the Somali Region remains largely traditional, limiting both productivity and economic impact despite the country’s significant apicultural potential. Although Ethiopia ranks among Africa’s top honey producers, with over 10 million hives and approximately 2 million people engaged in the sector, more than 95% of beekeepers still rely on traditional hives. These yield only 5–7 kg of honey per hive annually, compared to 20–30 kg from modern box hives. The low productivity is attributed to limited access to improved technologies, inadequate management skills, and persistent challenges such as pests, diseases, and insufficient forage.
To address these constraints, a participatory research project was implemented in Lowanaje Kebele, Dembel District, within the Somali Region a location with high beekeeping potential but no prior exposure to modern techniques. Twenty-five agro-pastoralists (80% male, 20% female) were organized into two Participatory Agro-Pastoral Research Groups (PAPREGs). They received 15 modern hives, essential beekeeping equipment, and comprehensive training on hive management, modern practices, and post-harvest handling.
The Pre-Scaling Up of Modern Beekeeping yielded promising results. Modern hives produced an average of 17.9 kg of honey per hive annually more than double the yield from traditional hives (7 kg) and well above the national average. Participants also reported improvements in honey quality, ease of hive management, and overall perception of modern systems. A cost-benefit analysis revealed that, despite higher initial investment, modern hives offer superior profitability. Key challenges identified included the relatively high cost of modern equipment and the skill required for effective use. Nevertheless, participants widely acknowledged the advantages of modern hives in terms of productivity, product quality, and operational efficiency.
Overall, the study demonstrates that participatory introduction and pre-scaling of modern beekeeping technologies can significantly enhance honey yields, increase rural incomes, and improve agro-pastoral livelihoods. To realize the full potential of Ethiopia’s beekeeping sector, the findings recommend scaling up modern hive dissemination, integrating continuous capacity-building programs, and strengthening institutional support particularly for women and marginalized groups to overcome adoption barriers and support sustainable development
Evaluation of Onion Varieties (Allium cepa L.) on Quantitative Attributes under Rabi Season in Tripura Region of India
No full textBackground: The cultivation of onion in Tripura is not a widespread practice. Tripura has a 40.12 thousand metric tonnes annual demand for onion, compared to a production of 1110 metric tonnes covering an area of 170 hectares in 2020-21(Horticultural Statistics at a Glance 2021). The state\u27s demand is fulfilled mainly by importing it from other states like Maharashtra, West Bengal. So for the purpose of meeting the demand of the common people and also for the development of a common source of income for the farmers, the experiment was conducted to find the appropriate variety(s) suitable for the region of Tripura, appropriate cultivation practice and best-yielding variety for the region. The experiment was performed in the Experimental Farm of College of Agriculture, Tripura, during the Rabi season of 2022-23 and 2023-24.
Methods: Twelve varieties of onion were taken viz., Sukhsagar, Bhima Kiran, Bhima Light Red, NHRDF Red-4, NHRDF Red-2, Fursungi, Bhima Red, NHRDF Red, Bhima Raj, Bhima Shweta, Agrifound Light Red and one check variety Bhima Shakti were evaluated using RCBD (Randomized Complete Block Design) with three replications. The planting dates were December 22nd, 2022 for the first season and December 5th, 2023 for the second season.
Results: The experiment’s result showed that theSukhsagar was the best among promising standard performers, displaying the most desirable characteristics and low post-harvest neck thickness, which is remarkable for its long-term storage. Sukhsagar required the minimum days to harvest (103 days) which was followed by Bhima Red (106 days). Among the yield parameters the highest average weight was observed in variety Bhima Raj (59.93 g). In terms of total yield and marketable yield Sukhsagar was the maximum (26.29 t/ha) and (23.38 t/ha) for two seasons respectively making it very commercial.
Conclusion: It can be concluded from the results of the experiment that for optimizing the yield, early harvest Sukhsagar, Bhima Red, Bhima Shweta and Fursungi are recommended under Rabi season the region
Evaluation of Innovation Adoption Process of Organic and Conventional Farms in Adana, Turkey
No full textThe aim of this study is to investigate the sources of information and learning among organic farming enterprises and conventional farming enterprises registered in the Farmer Registration System in Adana province and to comparatively analyze the adoption of innovations. The main material of this study consists of primary data obtained from 33 farmers practicing organic farming and 118 farmers calculated using the Simple Random Sampling Method for conventional agricultural enterprises. According to the results of the Mann Whitney U test, there is a significant difference at 0.01 level between organic and conventional farmers in terms of following agricultural innovations. Farmers practicing organic farming follow agricultural innovations more closely than their conventional counterparts. Farmers practicing organic farming in the research region are more innovative than farmers practicing conventional farming. The main source of information on agricultural innovations for the farmers participating in the study is the internet. Correct and efficient internet use can guide farmers in learning about innovations. Agricultural institutions should strengthen their presence on digital platforms to ensure accurate dissemination of information. Expanding extension services and tailoring information for farmers who rarely follow innovations could significantly enhance adoption. To accelerate adoption, relevant institutions should provide complete and timely information that eliminates uncertainties. This research, which examines the attitudes and behaviors of farmers applying different agricultural systems towards innovations, is expected to contribute to the agricultural extension literature