Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)
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Price dispersion and domestic banana market response in the Philippines
Full text linkThis study investigated the vertical price transmission of banana in the domestic market of the Philippines. Banana, as one of the governments’ priority crops under the Department of Agriculture’s ‘High-value Crops Development Program’, has given priority to sustainability and global competitiveness. However, the domestic banana market consists of several marketing channels. Such complex characteristics of marketing channels can negatively affect market efficiency. In addition to such issues within a banana market, there are other issues that arise outside the market that can also affect market efficiency. This study considered both internal and external factors affecting market efficiency and analysed the price transmission of upstream and downstream banana markets in the Philippines. The nonlinear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model is used to estimate asymmetric relationships among vertical banana markets. Following the NARDL model, the Granger causality test is applied to determine the direction between market prices. Results showed that the price dispersion and response depend on varieties of banana such as Lakatan and Saba, and market levels from farmgate, wholesale and retail. Lakatan banana is less inefficient than Saba banana in the Philippine domestic market. Based on the findings of the study, it is suggested that banana market stakeholders need to develop different strategies depending on the banana variety in order to improve the efficiency of the domestic banana market. To improve the complex distribution structure, the government needs to design medium- and long-term projects
Morphometric characterisation of indigenous taurine cattle in their natural environment in Cameroon
Full text linkThe morphometric characterisation of indigenous taurine breeds of cattle in their natural environment was undertaken in three agroecological zones of Cameroon. Descriptive traits for 97 animals, such as sex, age, coat colour, skin pigmentation, ear shape, and temperament, were observed visually and recorded for each breed identified. Biometric information was got by measuring body parts such as live weight (LW), body length (BoL), ear length (EL), head length (HL), heart girth (HG), neck length (NL), horn length (HoL), height at wither (HW) and thigh diameter (TD). There was a strong association (P0.0001) between the breed and the localities. Bakossi breed were dominated by a black/white coat colour while Namchi and Kapsiki breed demonstrated a high coat colour polymorphism. All the taurine had dark skin pigmentation, and 60.83% were docile. Their LW ranged from 199.9 kg (Namchi) to 229.9 kg (Kapsiki), BoL from 116.6 cm (Namchi) to 121.4 cm (Kapsiki), tail length (TL) from 11.1 cm (Kapsiki) to 17.4 cm (Bakossi), HG from 134.4 cm (Namchi) to 142.7 cm (Kapsiki), HoL from 21.4 cm (Bakosi) to 27.3cm (Kapsiki), and HW from 105.0 cm (Namchi) to 116.9 cm (Kapsiki). Apart from LW, BoL, and shoulder length, the other linear body measurements presented significant differences between breeds (0.05, 0.01). This study provides new information regarding the qualitative and quantitative traits of taurine breeds in Cameroon. Therefore, deep molecular characterisation should be carried out to confirm the breed’s types and possible admixture
Cost and return analysis of organic and conventional farming systems in the Ganga River Basin, India
Full text linkConventional farming (CF) has significantly increased the aggregate supply of food grains and ensured food security for the growing population in India. However, it proved environmentally unsustainable due to its higher reliance on chemical inputs. Organic farming (OF) becomes an alternative approach that ensures the sustainability of the agricultural system. But, the transition from CF to OF can be a lengthy process, and farmers may experience income loss during its course. Farmers will switch only when they are convinced that the long-term benefits of OF are higher than those of CF. Therefore, a study on cost and return analysis can help policymakers take appropriate measures to promote the adoption of OF. The current study aims to examine the costs, returns, and profitability for three crops (sugarcane, wheat, and paddy) under OF and CF, using data collected through a primary survey of 600 farmers (300 organics and 300 conventional) for the crop year 2020-21 in two districts of the Ganga River Basin. The study finds OF less profitable than CF for all three crops. Further, the results of crop-wise economics of OF and CF show that sugarcane is the most profitable crop and paddy is the least remunerative crop among all the three crops in the study area under both farming systems. The findings suggest that the policy focus must be on raising productivity through reorientating RD and extension services, establishing strong marketing networks, and institutionalizing the system of payments for ecosystem services for organic farmers
Enhancing crop-livestock systems: Unveiling the impact of leaf stripping on maize hybrid yield in Sundarbazar-Lamjung, Nepal
Full text linkIn local maize agro-ecosystems in Nepal leaf stripping is, historically, practiced as a source of fodder for livestock. However, its effects on hybrid maize have not been studied. The aim of this study was to determine how defoliation below the cob affects the grain and fodder production of hybrid maize and what value the stripped leaves have as fodder for ruminants. Seven hybrid maize cultivars were evaluated for their response to leaf stripping in a randomized complete block design with three replications in Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal. Evaluation of phenological parameters, agronomic factors, cob properties, and grain yield revealed significant cultivar-related differences. While leaf stripping at grain silking stage had little or no impact on yield characteristics, the outcomes confirmed the significance of cultivar selection for the best grain and stover characteristics. Leaf stripping can be a clever way to increase ruminant's feed availability while maintaining grain output. The results of the study support the integration of leaf stripping as a sustainable management technique within crop-livestock systems, particularly in comparable agroecological zones. These findings provide smallholder farmers with useful advice for the use of green leaves as fodder during the grain silking stage of hybrid maize-based agricultural systems
Anti-feedant activity of Pachygone laurifolia (DC.) L.Lian & Wei Wang bark extracts in tobacco cutworm, Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is mediated through biochemical responses and pathological damage
Full text linkSpodoptera litura is a severe polyphagous insect pest, causing extensive damage to agricultural crops all over the world. The present study was undertaken to investigate the response of S. litura to polarity gradient fractions of Pachygone laurifolia bark extract. The fraction IV and V of P. laurifolia bark possess a significant anti-feedant activity and growth inhibitory effect on S. litura. The active fractions inhibited carboxylesterase activity, whereas no significant difference in total protein content was observed. Alteration in glutathione S- transferase activity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity were noted on exposure of fraction V. The histopathological studies of the midgut region of the exposed larvae exhibited structural loss, damage in peritrophic membrane and longitudinal muscles, disintegration of goblet cells, oedema and lysis of the epithelial cells compared to control even at minimum concentration of exposure. Gas chromatographic – mass spectrometric analysis was carried out to ascertain the active constituents with the anti-insect properties. Overall, our findings revealed that fractions of P. laurifolia has significant anti-feedant activity mediated through biochemical mechanisms involving detoxification, oxidative stress and pathological damage. This plant extract has the potential to be developed as biopesticide formulation
Effect of goat weed leaf meal (Ageratum conyzoides) as a partial dietary replacement for maize in the diet of African catfish (Clarias gariepinus)
Full text linkIt is crucial to find ways to employ less expensive conventional materials in fish farming to lower production costs without adversely affecting the general performance of the fish. Consequently, certain neglected plants, such as goat weed leaves that have been reported to have the potential to serve as a partial substitute for maize (energy source) must be considered. Therefore, this research evaluated the effects of partially replacing maize with goat weed leaf meal (Ageratum conyzoides) (GWLM) on the growth, haematology, and serum enzyme indices of Clarias gariepinus. A 56-day feeding trial was conducted with a total of 500 juveniles with an average weight of 13.7 g. After sterilizing the fish in a mixture of potassium permanganate and water to reduce stress, a one-week acclimatisation period was ensured using commercial feed (2 mm). Subsequently, the juveniles were randomly stocked in quadruplets of 25 fish per culture tank measuring 1.2 m x 1.2 m x 0.9 m each (labelled Ai-iv, Bi-iv, Ci-iv, Di-iv, and Ei-iv) based on the number of repetition and the diet to be fed. A total of five (5) different diets with varying levels of dietary inclusion (A: 0%, B: 2%, C: 4%, D: 6%, and E: 8%) of goat weed leaf meal (GWLM) as a partial replacement for maize were formulated to contain a minimum crude protein level of 40%. The test diets were administered twice daily (7:00 hrs. and 18:00 hrs.) and the sampled fish were adequately fed (5% body weight) with proper follow-up to monitor feeding behaviour. The data collected from the research were subjected to a one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) using the SPSS version 23 analysis package. Furthermore, a Duncan multiple-range test was employed to separate the means. There were notable (p 0.05) variations in various parameters (proximate composition, digestibility of nutrients, growth performance, haematological and serological profiles, and water quality) observed in all treatments as the inclusion of the test ingredient in the diet increased. However, as the inclusion levels of the test ingredient increased above 4%, a steady decline was observed between treatments. At a 4% dietary inclusion level, the best performance indices (weight gained (36.52g), feed conversion ratio (2.15), specific growth rate (2.31) and survival rate (95%)), and blood profile (haematology and serum enzyme indices) were observed. Therefore, a 4% replacement of maize using goat weed leaf meal (GWLM) in the diet is suitable for an optimum performance of African catfish
Market participation and profitability of small scale garri processing in Edo, Ogun and Oyo States, Nigeria
Full text linkNigeria is the largest producer of cassava which is a staple food crop consumed in different forms. garri is one of the products commonly consumed by households. Improving the production process for greater gains has been at the fore front of discourse on potential for growth of the garri industry. Studies have not adequately explored variations in processing techniques across major producing and consuming communities for evaluation of the associated commercial potentials. This study examines market participation, cost structure and profitability of garri processing in major producing communities of Nigeria. Data were collected through survey of 300 processors selected by multi-stage sampling technique in Edo, Ogun and Oyo states of Nigeria. The results show that garri processing varies in length of processing period, quantity of cassava processed, garri yield and cost efficiency across the states. Processing was characterised by high market participation across the states while the cost structure shows that the bulk of the cost of garri processing was incurred on procurement of fresh tubers. A greater proportion of the labour cost was incurred on peeling (20.4%), washing (11.9%) and frying (31.1%). Garrification rates were higher in Ogun (26.54%, 20.25%) and Oyo (24.09%, 15.57%) than in Edo state (23.44%, 14.15%) in the dry and wet seasons respectively, with the latter having a shorter processing period. Cost per kilogram of garri produced was lowest in Edo state during the dry season but highest during the rainy season. However, garri processing was generally profitable, with significant differences in gross margin percentage (GM %) across states only in the rainy season. The highest GM% was recorded by processors in Ogun state (47.14%) followed by Edo (18.92%) and Oyo (17.37%) states. Market participation and profitability indicated potential for increased investment in cost- and labour-saving technologies to improve productivity in the garri processing industry
Investigating the effects of dietary supplementation with Moringa leaf powder and vitamin C in aflatoxin B1-exposed broilers
Full text linkThis study investigates the use of Moringa Leaf Powder (MLP) and Vitamin C in the diets of broiler chickens exposed to Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) to enhance performance and health. Two hundred one-day old Cobb 500 broiler breed chicks were divided into four diet groups: CON (no AFB1, no MLP), AFB (0.2 mg AFB1 per kg of feed), AFV (0.2 mg AFB1 with 200 mg vitamin C), and AFM (0.2 mg AFB1 with 500 mg MLP). Supplementation with MLP and vitamin C led to improved broiler performance, with AFM and AFV groups exhibiting higher body weight gain, similar or lower feed intake, and better feed conversion ratios compared to AFB. Mortality rates were lower in AFM and AFV, and dressing percentages and liver weights were higher. Haematological parameters showed significant improvements in AFM and AFV compared to AFB. MLP and vitamin C reduced serum cholesterol levels and normalised liver enzymes. MLP improved kidney function. Using 200 mg kg-1 vitamin C or 500 mg kg-1 Moringa oleifera powder as dietary supplements for broiler chickens exposed to aflatoxin B1 is recommended for improved productivity and health
Analysis of the marketing channels of an indigenous smallholder cattle breed at risk of losing genetic diversity: The case of the Lagune cattle in Benin
Full text linkThis study was undertaken to investigate the marketing channels of Lagune cattle and identify market potentials, constraints, and opportunities for its increased commercialisation. It was based on literature research and field surveys conducted between February and April 2022 in six localities of the Ouémé department in southeast Benin, where the largest population of this breed is found. One hundred seventy-three (173) producers of Lagune cattle and 20 butchers were included in the field survey. The marketing channels were identified, the different actors were described, and their average profit margins were estimated and compared. The results show that Lagune cattle production in rural and peri-urban areas is characterised by specific breeding practices. The direct producers-consumers channel was the most important commercialisation channel for this breed, followed by the producers-retailers (butchers)-consumers one. A net margin per animal of 92,819 FCFA and 33,407 FCFA was obtained by producers and butchers, respectively. The benefit-cost ratio for producers and butchers was 8.43 and 3.31, respectively, indicating that the capital invested by these two groups of actors was globally recovered. The results further show that despite its extensive characteristics, smallholder Lagune cattle farming is profitable. Finally, issues related to improving conditions for controlling cattle flows and slaughters in Ouémé department should be discussed to promote the breed and increase its commercialisation
Effects of livelihood diversification on poverty status of rural farming households of Kwara State, Nigeria
Full text linkOver-dependence on agriculture has failed to provide adequate and sustainable livelihoods for rural households. This study assessed the impact of livelihood diversification on the poverty status of rural farming households in Kwara State, Nigeria. Cross-sectional data were collected from 152 farming households over a period of one year using well-structured questionnaires and interview schedules. Descriptive statistics, Shannon diversity index, Foster, Greer and Thorbecke poverty index, fractional logit and probit regression models were used for analysis. Findings revealed that agriculture-related livelihood activities were still the main livelihood strategy in the area. Although farmers in the study area have a wide variety of livelihood options, the different activities carried out by rural households were very similar such as crop farming, fish farming and palm wine tapping which ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd, respectively. The main determinants of livelihood diversification were age, gender, household size and farming experience. The main determinants of household poverty were access to credit, gender, age and cooperative membership. The main constraints identified were insufficient funds (own capital) for investment, high transport costs, lack of training to acquire skills, and insufficient credit facilities. Based on these findings, it is recommended that the government should organise training courses on asset accumulation for households through extension services