Volume 4 Number 1 (January 2019)

Physicochemical Status of Sitalakkhya River, an Ecologically Critical Area (ECA) of Bangladesh

Bidhan Bhuson Roy, Rezuana Afrin, Subodhe Chandra Barman, Md. Younus Mia

The study was conducted to assess the water quality of the Sitalakkhya River, Narayangonj, Bangladesh and observe its temporal changes forthe physicochemical parameters of water from March to May, 2015. The present study showed that the color of water was deep black or black and emittedobnoxious smell. It was found in the study that the temperature, transparency, TDS, EC, pH, DO, alkalinity, hardness, NO3-, Cl- and BOD were ranged from 31.5-34.60C, 15.25-27.30 cm, 291-781 ppm, 558-2664 ppm, 7.57-8.60, 1.4-3.6 ppm, 123-435 ppm, 203-332 ppm, 0-89.13 ppm, 51.68-237.36 ppm and 3.21-17.3 ppm, respectively. Most of the observed parameters have exceeded permissible limits except pH and Cl- indicating higher concentrations of organic and inorganic pollutants present in the river.According to the study,significant strong positive correlations were found in temp. vs pH (r= 0.774, p< 0.05), temp. vsCl- (r= 0.954, p< 0.05), temp. vs BOD (r= 0.747, p< 0.05), TDS vs EC (r= 0.955, p< 0.05), pH vsCl- (r= 0.808, p< 0.05), pH vs BOD (r= 0.864, p< 0.05) and DO vsNO3- (r= 0.758, p< 0.05) in March; temp. vsNO3- (r=0.915, p< 0.05), TDS vs EC (r= 0.949, p< 0.05), TDS vs DO (r= 0.765, p< 0.05) and DO vshardness (r= 0.745, p< 0.05) in April andtransparency vsNO3- (r= 0.906, p< 0.05), TDS vs EC (r= 0.922, p< 0.05), TDS vs pH (r= 0.836, p< 0.05), EC vspH (r= 0.982, p< 0.05) and pH vs hardness (r= 0.764, p< 0.05) in May. Significant strong negative correlations were found in EC vs alkalinity (r= -0.745, p< 0.05), DO vsBOD (r= -0.876, p< 0.05) and NO3-vs BOD (r= -0.765, p< 0.05) in March and TDS vsCl- (r= -0.774, p< 0.05), EC vsCl- (r= -0.758, p< 0.05), hardness vs BOD (r= -0.775, p< 0.05) and NO3-vsCl- (r= -0.763, p< 0.05) in April.The hydrochemistry of the water body has revealed that the water is unsafe for human health, aquatic organisms and also for household, irrigational and industrial uses without proper treatment.

Chemical Composition and Functional properties of Caesalpina bonduc and Monodara myristica seed flours

Adeleke A.E, Sangoremi A, Adegbite S.A

The chemical composition, nature minerals, anti-nutrients, functional and physicochemical properties of Caesalpina bonduc and Monodara myristica seed flours were determined. The results for proximate compositions in the samples were for Caesalpinia bonduc flour were moisture (7.89%), Ash (2.96%), Crude protein (18.26%), Crude fibre (12.54%), fat content (23.59%) and Carbohydrate (34.76%) while for Monodora myristica flour were: moisture (5.05%), Ash content (2.81%), crude fibre (4.69%), crude protein (24.62%), fat content (7.01%) and carbohydrate (55.82%). The mineral contents in (mg/l) for Caesalpinia bonduc and Monodara myristica seed flours were: K(36.68), (101.87), Ca(40.98), (59.43), Na (475.65), (463.57), Mg (13.20), (14.80), Zn (61.80), (66.20), P (18.5), (23.86), Ni (14.70), (13.40), Fe (12.80), (28.3), Cu (0.06) and (0.08) respectively. These results showed that the seeds samples contained some valuable minerals that are useful in bone formation as well as physiological and metabolic activities. The results of the functional properties for Caesalpina bonduc and Monodora myrictca seeds flours were: gelation capacities (51.40%), (53.80%), water absorption capacities (113.00), (121.50), emulsion capacities(56.25%), (56.00%), swelling capacities(7.10), (6.80) and oil Absorption capacities (137.50%), (115.50) and foaming capacities were (5.05) and (5.00) respectively. The anti-nutritents contents for Caesapina bonduc and Monodora myristica reported in this study were: Phytate (0.406%), (0.37%) Saponin (0.184%), (0.172%), Oxalates (0.068%), (0.056%), Tannins (0.083%) and (0.074%) respectively.This result suggested that the seed flours have low anti-nutritional content and may be useful in food formulations like doughes and baked products. It also confirmed that the seed samples may be good substitutes for wheat flour and Soy flour as extender in binder formulation.

Succession of Plant Spesies Following a Forest Fire on Mount Talang, West Sumatera

Chika Sumbari, Aswaldi Anwar Indra Dwipa

This research was conducted from May to July 2018. Observation of vegetation was carried out in the ex-fire of Talang Mount area, while identification of vegetation was carried out in the Herbarium Biology Departmen, Faculty of Science and Mathematics Andalas University. The purpose of this study is to identify vegetation that grows after forest fire, to determine the effect of forest fire on the succession processes. Vegetation analysis in natural forest and post-combustion forest was carried out by making observation plots of vegetation with map sizes for seedling level of 2mx2m, sapling level of 5mx5m, pole level of 10mx10m and tree level with a size of 20mx20m. Observation data is carried out with important value index analysis, There are 22 identified vegetations that grow after forest fire. The influence of forest fire on the existence of the succession process indicated by the presence of plants that grow in the post-burning forest area, namely Similac sp and A6 plants.

Adaptation of Variety Diversity on Growth and Production in the Area of Onion Plant Marginals (Allium ascalanicum L.)

Ambo Upe, Tenri Sau

The study aims to obtain variety with broad adaptations that are able to grow and produce optimal production on marginal fields of onion planting, which can improve farmers' welfare, reduce dependence on red onion imports, become exporters of onion to food sovereignty. The method that will be used is a Randomized Block Design (RBD) method consisting of five red onion variety as treatment, namely BimaBrebes, Tajuk, Bauji, Super Philip, and Local Enrekang variety. Each treatment was repeated three times. Data processing with SPSS Software, Version 22, and if there is a real influence, then a different test is performed with the Duncan Test at the level of ap= 0.05. The research was carried out on the experimental land of STIP PuangrimaggalatungSengkang. The parameters observed consist of the growth and production of onion plants. The results of the analysis showed that the onion variety that was quite adaptive was BimaBrebes variety onion and was able to produce an average production of 12.08 t ha-1.

Effect of Chitosan and Chlorocholine Chloride on the Minituberization of Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium L. Schott)

This study was carried out in order to evaluate the effect of chitosan (1, 2 and 3gL-1) and chlorocholine chloride (5, 10 and 15mgL-1) on the minituberization of cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium). Results showed that both phytohormones reduced the growth cycle of cocoyam from 6 to 5months with the best results obtained at the concentrations 2gL-1 and 15mgL-1 for chitosan (CTH) and chlorocholine chloride (CCC) respectively. The average number of leaves was greater in CTH at 2gL-1 (3.80±1.40) and 10mgL-1(3.60±0.70) for CCC. The optimal height of the plant for CTH was obtained at 1gL-1 (17.87±5.47 cm) and 15mgL-1 (21.15±1.99 cm) for CCC. The average leaves surface was greater at 1gL-1 (36.39±17.02 cm2) for CTH and 15mgL-1 (25.87±5.62 cm2) for CCC. The number of minitubers harvested as well as the percentage of tuberization was maximum with 29minitubers at 2gL-1 and 23 for 15mgL-1.The size of the minitubers was best at 3gL-1(2.60±0.26 cm) for CTH and 10mgL-1 (0.56±0.27 cm) for CCC. The mass of the minitubers increased with best results obtained at 3gL-1(2.80±0.84g) and at 10mgL-1 (0.20±0.36g) for CTH and CCC respectively.

Evaluation of Salicylic acid Pre-Hardening Treatments of Cowpea for Resistance against the Flea Beetle, Podagricafuscicornis Linn. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Audi A. H., Mukhtar F. B.

The experiment was conducted to evaluate the potential of SA-treatment in the control of Pod sucking bug of cowpea. The mean annual rainfall was within the range of 865-1250mm with mean annual temperature of about 22-38°C and relative humidity of 65-90mmHg. Four different cowpea varieties (IT97K-1069-6, IT98K-205-8, IT89KD-288 and Dan’ila) pre-hardened with Salicylic acid were established in various replicated field cages in completely randomized design. Five-pairs each of fresh pre-mated bugs were introduced into the various cages, allowed for 2-weeks to mate and oviposit after which all adult insects are removed. The different cowpea varieties screened showed variable response to the bug attack. IT97K-1069-6 and IT89KD-288 recorded lower indices of susceptibility and leaf damage to flea beetle attack, delayed development time of larvae with few progeny emergence. Pre-treatment effects also varied significantly (P

The Effect of Mulch types with Dose of N, P, and K Fertilizer in Summed Dominan ratio and biomass weed Arabica (Coffea Arabica L.) Coffee in Indonesia

Hedi Ermarilla, Ardi, Dan Indra Dwipa

This research was compiled based on Factorial Randomized Group Design (RBD) consisting of 2 factors with 3 groups to obtain 36 experimental units. Each unit consists of 12 plants, 3 plants are taken as samples, so that 432 plants in total with 144 plants as samples. The first fator is the treatment of various types of mulch with 4 levels, namely A1 = no mulch, A2 = mulch rice husk, A3 = mulch banana stem and A4 = black silver plastic mulch. The second factor is the treatment of N, P and K anoragnik fertilizer with 3 levels, namely B1 = 15 g N, 15 g P2O5, 15 g K2O, B2 = 20 g N, 20 g P2O5, 20 g K2O and B3 = 25 g N, 25 g P2O5, 25 g K2O. The results of the study that the treatment of various types of mulch showed the dominant weeds in the cultivation of Arabica coffee in Indonesia was Borreria alata, followed by Elausine indica and Ageratum conyzoides. While the lowest weed biomass was obtained in black silver plastic mulch or N, P and K 15g: 15g: 15g.

Grouper Fish Fisheries in Bays of Kwandang, Gorontalo Province are reviewed from Economic Social Aspects

Dewi Shinta Achmad, Syamsu Alam Ali, Sudirman, Yusran Nur Indar

Socio-economic information is needed in the formulation of responsible grouper management. This study aims to determine the socio-economic conditions of grouper fishermen in Bays of Kwandang. This research was conducted from January to July 2018. Primary data was collected through surveys and direct interviews with fishermen and fishermen figures.. The Collecting data using questionnaire assistance on 35 people respondents. Grouper fishermen in Bays of Kwandang were still in the category of traditional fishermen. The income of fishermen is below of Rp. 200,000/trip with the catch per trip less than 25 kg. To improve welfare, fishermen need subsidies from the local government. The subsidies are in form of fishing fleets and capital to develop business diversification in the fisheries sector.

Effect of some Bacterial Bioagents against Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita race2)

Gitanjali Devi, L.C. Bora

The effect of culture filtrate of different bacterial isolates on egg hatching and juvenile mortality of root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne incognita race 2) was studied in vitro and the effective strains were selected. The per cent mortality and hatching inhibition was proportional to the concentration of culture filtrate and the duration of exposure period. Culture filtrate of all the isolates of bacteria significantly induced mortality and inhibition of egg hatching of M. incognita juveniles. The highest percentage of inhibition of egg hatching was recorded for Bacillus thuringiensis followed by Bacillus sp. and Pseudomonas fluorescens whereas the highest percentage of mortality of juvenile was recorded for Bacillus thuringiensis followed by Pseudomonas fluorescens and Pseudomonas sp.

The Effect of 2, 4 D (Dichlorophenoxyacetic acid) and BAP (Benzyl Amino Purine) Concentration on the Establishment of Patchouli (Pogostemon cablin Benth) in Vitro

Dwika Karima Wardani, Benni Satria, Reni Mayerni

The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of 2,4-D growth regulator and the most effective BAP for the formation of callus for endemic patchouli plants in western markets, namely Akasesi Situak in vitro. The research has been carried out at the Andalas University Faculty of Agriculture Tissue Culture Laboratory, in September November 2018. The method used is Random Trap Design (RAL) with 2 treatment factors, namely 2,4-D (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 mg). / l) and BAP (0, 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2 mg / l), the total consists of 25 treatments with 3 replications with codes namely A1S1, A1S2, A1S3, A1S4, A1S5, A2S1, A2S2, A2S3, A2S4 , A2S5, A3S1, A3S2, A3S3, A3S4, A3S5, A4S1, A4S2, A4S3, A4S4, A4S5, A5S1, A5S2, A5S3, A5S4, A5S5. Data were statistically analyzed by F test at 5% real level. If F count is greater than F table 5%, then proceed with Duncan's New Multiple Range Test (DNMRT) at the level of 5%. The results of the study show that on the treatment of A3S3 (1.0 mg / l 2.4-D + 1.0 mg / l BAP), A3S4 (1.0 mg / l 2.4-D + 1.5 mg / l BAP), A3S5 (1.0 mg / l 2.4 -D + 2.0 mg / l BAP) and A4S1 (1.5 mg / l 2.4-D + without BAP) produce explants. whereas in other combination treatments up to 30 days of observation did not produce patchouli plants in the Situak Accession plant.

Utilization Strategy and Management of Green Waste to Improve Wasteland Fertility in Australia

Divyesh Shekhada

This paper covers production of food waste in Australia, including to find the best solution to address the food waste issue by collective understanding of what we mean by food waste and where it happens. Recognizing what we are starting at now do well can empower us to take in and use from prevailing exercises and moreover development. Moreover, the point of administration and recycling of food waste in header of biomass preparation can build soil fertility of wasteland in Australia. With the aim of considering natural composts are infinite, biodegradable, reasonable, and ecologically attractive. This thought can be proposed as reusing of waste as a natural fertilizer to enhance soil readiness of wasteland in Australia.

The Impact of Farmer Field Schools (SLK) Program Implementation on the Cocoa Farm Business in Lima Puluh Kota Regency

Walmadri, Hasnah, Faidil Tanjung

Cocoa industry in West Sumatra has high potential to increase the income of small farmers. However, cocoa production is still below production potential. The implementation of the cocoa field school program (SLK) is one of approaches to develop cocoa farm business. This field school is expected to improve the performance of smallholders’ cocoa farming, both in terms of production and quality. To assess the extent to which this field school has helped farmers to increase their capacity to manage cocoa farming, research is needed to analyze the impact of the implementation of the farmer field school program on cocoa farming as measured by level of technology adoption and economic impact by comparing cocoa income between participant and non-participant farmers in farmer field school program. The study was conducted in Lima Puluh Kota Regency which involved a sample of 80 people, consisting of 40 SLK farmers and 40 non-SLK participants. The results showed that forthe impact of the SLK on cocoa farming, it was found thatfor the price variable there was a significant difference but for the variable production, farming costs and income between farmers and non-SLK participants there were no significant differences. In conclusion that the cocoa field school program has not significantly affected cocoa farming practices in Lima Puluh Kota. As a result, the expected increase in production and quality of cocoa has not been achieved.

Cassava Processorâ€™s Awareness of Improved Processing Technologies in Oyo State

Olayemi O.O., Ajanaku A.O, Ewebiyi I.O.

The cassava production is most carried out by smallholder farmers in the rural areas using low-level production techniques which have left them with production of cassava tubers without much value addition. Therefore cassava processors’ awareness of improved processing technologies in Oyo State was investigated. Simple random approach was employed through questionnaire and interviews to collect information from 176 Cassava processors. Descriptive and inferential statistics such as frequency counts, percentages, mean, Chi-square were used in data analysis at 0.05 level of significance. Results of analysis revealed that majority (77.2%) of the respondents fell within the age range of 21 years to 50 years with mean age of 41.23 and greater population of females (75.6%) than the males (24.4%). Over 45.5% had secondary and below as their educational qualification with most (75.6%) married, with fairly large household size 4-6 persons. The respondents’ level of awareness of improved processing technologies among most need respondents low (54.5%) and this may accounted for low level of utilization of improved processing technologies among majority (56.8%) of the respondents. Chi-square analysis revealed that, among socio-economic characteristics of the respondents, religion(x2= 6.805, p= 0.033), educational qualification (x2 = 10.572, p= 0.032), mode of processing (x 2 = 14.015, p= 0.001) and mode of Labour (x2=11.960, p=0.003) were significantly related to respondents’ awareness of improved processing technologies. The result revealed clearly that respondents’ awareness of improved processing technologies does not depend on marital status, sex, household size and experience. It is therefore recommended that Government and NGO’s should encourage extension agents by giving them motivation as at when due to improve their services of dissemination of information to the cassava processors on awareness of improved processing technologies toward enhancing higher productivity, income and better standard of living of the respondents in the study area.

Production and Growth of Soybean on Water Hyacinth Bokashi Giving with Two Activators Types

Asrijal, Ambo Upe, Rahmawati, Sulfiani, Dan Aslidayanti

The study aimed to determine the production and growth of soybean on water hyacinth bokashi giving with two activators types. The study was conducted in Leweng Village, TakkalallaSubdistrict, Wajo District. The method used was Randomized Block Design (RBD), consisting of three (3) treatments, namely Bokashi (b0), Bokashi 2 tha-1 with Activator EM4 (b1), and Bokashi 2 tha-1 with Activator Tadabur (b2). Each treatment was repeated three times so that the number of treatment combinations was 9 combinations (9 plot treatment). The results show that the average soybean production per hectare application of water hyacinth bokashi with EM4 activators is 0.80 tons per hectare, while the application of water hyacinth bokashi with Tadabur activists is 0.79 tons per hectare. The application of water hyacinth bokashi with EM4 activators is much better, compared to water hyacinth bokashi with activist Tadabur.

Induction of Systemic Resistance by Rhizobacterial and Endophytic Fungi against Foot Rot Disease of Piper nigrum L. by Increasing Enzyme Defense Activity

Shobha M.S., Lakshmi Devi N., Mahadeva Murthy S.

Two strains of rhizobacteria, Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens and two strains of endophytic fungi Trichoderma viride and Trichoderma asperellum were selected as inducers of systemic resistance against Phytophthora capsici and were tested individually for biological control of foot rot disease of pepper. Black pepper vines were grown under greenhouse and challenge inoculated with P. capsici were selected for analyzing the disease index, chitinase, peroxidase, phenylalanine ammonia lyase activity, polyphenol oxidase, β-1, 3-glucanase assay and estimation of phenol content. Treatments with B. subtilis and T. viride isolates provided protection to pepper plant against P. capsici infection as observed with reduced per cent disease incidence showed 20 and 18% as compared to untreated control. Increases in the enzyme level were detected in different strains of pepper vines at time intervals after challenge inoculation. The study reveals the potential of B. subtilis and T. viride as biocontrol agent for prevention of P. capsici infections in black pepper.

Minimizing the Impact of Yellowfin Tuna Thunnus albacares fishing in Banda Sea

Haruna, Agustinus Tupamahu, Achmar Mallawa

The declining trend of Yellowfin Tuna Thunnus albacares production in Fishery Management Territory of Indonesia 714 nowadays will affect the demand for tuna products in Indonesia and global. Regarding the management purposes, the impact of fishing needs to be minimized. Therefore, the estimation of population structure based on the length and age is very important to be studied. The data were collected from November 2015 to October 2016 from longline and handline catching activities operated in the Banda Sea. The average length of yellowfin tuna caught with longline and handline was 98.5 cm and the first length maturity was Lm 103.6 cm. The result showed that the first yellowfin tuna caught was Lc_opt 125.2 cm, where fishing mortality ratio toward natural mortality was at the level that endangered the sustainability of yellowfin tuna fisheries in the Banda Sea. To minimize the impact, there needs to be a minimum size regulation of yellowfin tuna that should be landed.

The Effect of Combination of Picloram and Bap on the Calculation of Clean Plants (Postogemon cablin Benth)

Deasy Monica Latif, Warnita, Renni Mayerni

This study aims to determine the best Picloram and BAP concentrations in InVitro patchouli callus formation. This experiment was conducted in November 2018 to January 2019 at the Tissue Culture Laboratory, Faculty of Agriculture, Andalas University, Padang. This study used an experimental method with Completely Randomized Design (CRD) consisting of two factors. The first factor was the administration of Picloram concentration with 5 levels of treatment and the second factor was the administration of BAP concentrations with 5 levels of treatment. This experiment consisted of: This experiment consisted of Factor I: Picloram (A) Without Picloram (A1), Concentration of 1 mg / L (A2), Concentration of 2mg / L (A3), Concentration of 3 mg / L (A4), Concentration of 4mg / L (A5), Factor II: Concentration of BAP (S) Without BAP (S1), Concentration of 0.5 mg / L (S2), Concentration of 1 mg / L (S3), Concentration of 1.5 mg / L (S4) Concentration 2 mg / L (S5). The data obtained were analyzed using the F test at the level of 5%, if F count is greater than F table then the analysis is continued with the DMNRT test at the level of 5%. From the results of the study showed that the concentration of picloram had a significant effect on the growth of patchouli callus with an average callus appearance of 7 HST and percentage (%) of explants growing up to 100%. High picloram concentration did not significantly affect callus growth, 2 mg / l picloram + BAP concentration did not produce callus.

Effect of Poultry Manure and N.P.K 15: 15: 15 Fertilizer on the Growth and Yield of Nsukka Yellow Pepper (Capsicum annum)

Awere S.U., Omeje T.E

A field experiment to evaluate the effect of poultry manure and N.P.K 15:15:15 fertilizer on the growth and yield of Nsukka yellow pepper (Capsicum annum) was conducted in the faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources Management Teaching and Research Farm Enugu State University of Science and Technology Enugu during the 2018 cropping season. The experiment was carried out using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with four (4) treatments replicated five (5) times. The result of the experiments showed significant treatment effect (P = 0.05) on the following agronomic parameters measured; percentage (%) plant survival, leaf area index, plant height, number of leaves per plant, number of days to 50% flowering, number of fruits per plant and fruit yield (kg/ha). Poultry manure and N.P.K 15:15:15 fertilizer combination performed significantly (P = 0.05) better than poultry manure, N.P.K 15:15:15 fertilizer and no application of the treatments on the number of leaves per plant, number of fruits per plant and fruit yield (kg/ha). There was neither significant interaction effect (P = 0.05) of poultry manure + N.P.K 15:15:15 fertilizer nor significant main effect (P = 0.05) of poultry manure and N.P.K 15:15:15 fertilizer on leaf area index.

Relationship between Fibre Characteristics and Physico-Mechanical Properties of Aningeria robusta (A.CHEV) Wood

Olaoye K.O., Oluwadare A.O., Ariwoola O.S.

Aningeria robusta wood is fast becoming popular in Nigeria, due to its excellent performance in structural applications especially in roofing, and in recent times, door frames and furniture. Thus, consideration must be given to its mechanical properties, and fibres in wood is known for providing mechanical support for the wood. Notwithstanding, mechanical failure of wood in service still occurs. To limit such failures assessment is needed to be done on some parameters associated to quality of wood. This study thus assess the relationship between fibre characteristics and physico-mechanical properties of Aningeria robusta wood. Three trees of Aningeria robusta were obtained wood samples of 20x20x300mm were collected to determine modulus of elasticity and modulus of rupture (mechanical property), 20X20X20mm for fibre characteristics, and 20x20x60mm for wood density and moisture content. The mean fibre length, fibre diameter, lumen, cell wall thickness (CWT), 1.55mm, 11.71μm, 8.78μm, 1.46μm, while the mean moisture content, density, modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) were 55.54%, 429.34kg/m3, 123.91N/mm2, 5876.89N/mm2 respectively. There existed a negatively significant correlation between fibre length and MOR, and well as CWT and moisture content. This existing relationship implies that the shorter the fibre length, the more the MOR. It can therefore be concluded that existing relationship between fibre characteristics and physico-mechanical properties taken cognisance of where mechanical failure of wood is to be limited.

Waste Management Practices in Selected Poultry Farms and its Effect on the Environment and Human Health in Makurdi, Nigeria

H.O. Abah, A.U. Nwankwo, C.M. Orgem

The poultry industry produces large amounts of waste that include solid waste and wastewater. These waste if not properly disposed can be risky to the environment and humans through the spread of diseases and pollution of soil and groundwater. The investigation to determine poultry waste management practices and its effect on the environment and human health was carried out in Makurdi. Benue State. The study was conducted from October to December 2017. A structured questionnaire was administered to 20 randomly selected poultry farmers and 20 neighbours in the study area by one on one interview and observation of the environment. Data collected from the questionnaires were analysed using descriptive statistics. The major poultry waste generated by the farms was faecal waste (50%) with about 50% of the respondents getting 25 bags or more of waste after clearance of poultry houses. There was no significant difference (P=0.056) between the flock size and the number of bags gotten from clearance of the litter. About (40%) of the farms sell their poultry waste immediately after clearing their farms while 30% applied theirs directly to nearby farm lands. The challenges in disposing of poultry waste were shortage of labour (45%) and lack of dumping sites (25%). The major complaint about poultry farms by neighbours living around the farms was bad odour (60%). It was observed that improper handling of poultry production waste from start to finish could lead to environmental and health hazards with 60% of the respondents reported being sick with signs of respiratory problems and 40% had digestive problems. Eighty-five (85%) percent of the farmers indicated that improper disposal of litter causes surface water contamination while all (100%) the farmers agreed that poultry waste causes air pollution. It was concluded that waste management by poultry farmers in the study area was inefficient. There is a need for further studies to assess the magnitude of the risk posed by poor poultry waste management practices to the environment, livestock and human health.

In vitro Tissue Culture Technique as Tool for micro propagation of Lepidium sativum L. Plant under Abiotic Stress Conditions

This study was carried out at biology Lab, Biology Department, University College in ALKhafji, University of HAFR ALBATIN, to study the effect of MS salts strength, and sucrose concentration on micro propagation and phytochemical composition of Lepidium sativum Plant, using MS medium at five salt strength (1.0,1.5,2.0,2.5 and 3.0 mg\L) MS salt strength and sucrose at five concentration (30.0 g, 45.0 g, 60.0 g, 75.0 g and 90.0 g) \L. Ethanolic extracts and DPPH reagent were used to test the antioxidant activity. Lepidium sativum Plant used in folk medicine in Sudai Arabia, known as Garden cress belongs to Brassicaceae family. It is very famous in folk medicine. The tissue culture technique is a rapid method to propagate plants in vitro, especially medicinal plants for producing medicinal component. Through in vitro culture we can control the environmental conditions of plants; it enables us to study the effect of some factors like sucrose concentration and salt strength that determine growth of plants and chemical constituent. Impact of these stresses the plant micro propagation and the content of plants from active substances which plays a role as antioxidant was varied. For micro propagation, the effect of MS salt strength showed that, the use of MS media salt at double MS salt concentration (2.0 MS salt) obtained highest leaf number (8.11±1.3278), highest node number was (1.933±0.62098) and highest shoot length (4.608±0.5828cm) both were induced by basal MS (1.0 MS salt), while highest root length (3.787±0.3958) obtained at triple MS salt strength (3.0 MS salt (. Effect of sucrose concentration, MS media supplemented by 30 g sucrose obtained highest leaf number, highest shoot and root length (5.655±1.1076; 4.608 ±0.5828 and 2.985±0.3952) respectively. For antioxidant activity data represented that antioxidant activity increase with increasing salt strength and sucrose concentration. Our results suggested that increasing sucrose concentration decrease leaf number, shoot and root length, on the other hand increase antioxidant activity. While increasing MS salt strength decrease node number and shoots length, while root length and antioxidant activity was increase. The results contained in this research are the first study to Effect of some environmental stress on in vitro propagation and antioxidant activity of Lepidium sativum at Saudia Arabia.

Stress Response at different Ages of Weaning in Cattle

MM Odeon, ME Munilla, M Lado, F De Fino, S Maidana, JS Vittone, SA Romera

Weaning is an inherent husbandry practice in cow-calf beef production systems that impose physical, psychological, and nutritional stressors on calves. In order to characterize the main stressors and corresponding stress responses of calves, two weaning schemes were studied. One of conventional weaning (6 month calves) and another of early weaning (1 month calves). Blood samples were analyzed in an hematology analyzer, the plasma was separated and an analysis of total protein and of cortisol levels was carried. Finally, the response to a vaccine was assessed by analyzing antibody response titers. A significant decrease in the number of lymphocytes and increase in the number of granulocytes was observed in the conventionally weaned group leading to an elevated GR:LY ratio. On day one post-weaning, plasmatic proteins showed a significant increase of similar range in both groups. With regard to cortisol levels, there was a strong increase at day one corresponding to a clear stress response in the conventional weaning group, wheras in the group of early weaning animals only a marginal increase which difficult returned to baseline levels could be observed. As to the antibody response to vaccination, early weaning animals did not show a satisfactory response as was observed in calves subjected to conventional weaning. In conclusion, leukocyte subsets, plasmatic proteins, cortisol levels, and immune status were altered after weaning challenge in both studied age groups of calves. Results indicate weaning as a stressor, regardless of age.

Effect of pH on Hydroponically Grown Bush Beans (phaseolus vulgaris)

Sampson Hopkinson, Megan Harris

Numerous environmental factors can influence the viability of plants. Several studies have shown that acidic and basic pHs have a noticeable effect on different types of plants when grown directly in soils. However not too many studies have been done on hydroponically grown plants with respect to pH. This study was conducted at the Botany laboratory and Green house at Alabama A & M University with bush beans. Five nutrient solutions with pH values ranging from 5 - 9 were used. Observations on plant height and number of leaves were done for six weeks after nutrient solutions with the different pH values were introduced to the plants 7 days after the seed germinated. Plants grown in nutrient solutions with high alkalinity levels (8 & 9) were significantly shorter compared to those grown in nutrient solutions with pH 5, 6 and 7. Leaf number and size strongly correlated in a manner expected with plant height, plants in high alkalinity nutrient solutions had fewer and smaller leaves. Plants grown in neutral or near neutral nutrient solutions appear healthier with green leaves and strong stems.

The Influence of Proximate Composition of Cow Dung on the Rate and Volume of Biogas Generation in Maiduguri, North Eastern Nigeria

Yerima I., Y.M. Ngulde, Abubakar Mustapha, A.L. Ngala

This research investigates the Cow dung, Cow pats or Cow pies as a waste product of Cattle which constitute undigested residue of plant material and excreted by the animal as a waste. One dung cake made by hand of an average size gives 2100 kj of energy. The organic waste can be a source of renewable energy for rural areas especially in developing countries like Nigeria provided the material is subjected to anaerobic digestion to produce biogas as a means of waste disposal and alternative source of energy. Before this initiative of digesting Cow dung, the waste material is used as a direct fuel in clay stoves or three stone stoves and traditional fertilizer among peasant farmers in Nigeria and Asian countries. However, when discovered as a cheap, reliable and safe source of domestic fuel, energy experts and consumers thought of commercializing and patenting the gas. The research was carried out in the Laboratory of the Department of Biological Sciences, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria, using the batch system digester with a capacity of0.612 m3 and 0.24 m3as gasholder. About 0.2773 m3 of gas was released daily to control the excess pressure imposed on the gas holder (size 24, tractor tube). Laboratory and field analysis of the cow dung were carried out, followed by daily records of the volume of gas generated using ruler to measure and estimate the volume of the gas in cubic meter using the standard formula for measuring a cylinder (3.14 x r2 x h). The result of this research shows that the gas generated was methane due to combustion in combination with Carbon dioxide (CO2) due to non-combustion, Hydrogen Sulphide (H2S) due to rotten egg smell and water vapor. The daily volume of biogas generated was 0.27915 m3 on the average, with a maximum daily record of 0.5165 m3before declining after 73 days of the experiment and a cumulative volume of 77.62 m3in 52 days of methane production. The sustainability of cooking trial utilized an overall volume of 1.17 m3of the methane gas in 1hr to cook 1.5 kg of rice with ingredients and 0.553 m3in 1:35 hrs.to boil 20 liters of water. The digestion process was done in an airtight drum of 0.612 m3capacity as the digester.

Variation in Species Richness and other Vegetational Parameters in Pine and Mixed Broadleaf Forest of Central Himalaya

Neeta Arya, Jeet Ram

In the present study total two forest stand on different canopy cover (open canopy, moderate canopy and close canopy) were studied to assess the importance of these two parameters in supporting species regeneration and biodiversity in a P. roxburghii forest and mixed broadleaf forest between 1300 and 2000 m elevation in the Utrarakhand Himalaya. Tree species richness was high in mixed broadleaf forest compared to P. roxburghii forest. While, shrub and herb species richness was high in P. roxburghii forest. The tree and herb density was significantly high in mixed broadleaf forest. Tree shrub and herb diversity was high in mixed broadleaf forest. These forests are exploited variously for different resources and consequently the vegetation cover is decreasing. The disturbances are changing the species richness and diversity, which influences the soil and environmental conditions. Thus, the conservation and management of these forests will be important for the sustainability of human and land. Disturbances and climate change will alter the species composition of these forests, which may shift socio-economic and ecological condition of the region.

Population Densities of the Plum scale Insect, Parlatoria oleae (Colvee) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae) in relation to the Resultant yield of Mango Fruits

Islam R.M. El-Zoghby, Moustafa M.S. Bakry, Amira S.A. Abd El-Rahman

The main objective of this work is to evaluate the relationship between the pest population, Parlatoria oleae (Colvee), through pest activity peaks in October/November; April and July on the yield loss of seedy Balady mango trees at Esna district, Luxor Governorate, Egypt through two seasons (2016/2017 and 2017/2018). Data revealed that the increment of population density caused gradual decrease of the yield of mango fruits, consequently increased the percentage of yield loss when the data of the yield were colligated with the pest population peaks in October/November; April and July months through 2016/2017 and 2017/2018 seasons. Increasing one individual of pest per leaf caused a reduction of the mango yield by 2.53, 2.51 and 4.59 kg/tree and 2.25, 2.19 and 2.88 kg/tree through the periods of population abundance of the two seasons, respectively. Accordingly, increased yield loss percentages by 1.05, 1.04 and 1.90% and 0.87, 0.84 and 1.10% occurred during the mentioned periods of the two consecutive seasons (2016/2017 and 2017/2018), respectively. These results confirmed that P. oleae population during the peak of April resulted the least expected amount of mango fruits yield and the greatest loss in mango yield. On contrary, the peak during July was less effective, causing the highest expected yield and the lowest reduction in mango fruits yield of the two seasons. Generally, the reduction in yield of mango fruits is known to be a summation of many factors including the rate of infestation, time of infestation and variety ability to infestation.

SBR-Based Light Cimental Compositions for use in Sustainable Constructions

The practice of sustainable development is a reality present in various segments of society. In this sense, buildings must be ecologically correct, socially just, culturally accepted, and economically viable. Seeking sustainability, the use of non-conventional building materials is increasing, especially for works of social interest. The aim of the present work was to develop light SBR - based composites based on industrial waste from the footwear sector, aiming at the elaboration of construction elements for the thermal protection of masonry.For the production of the composites, Portland cement type CP II F - 32 and a residue from a footwear industry based on SBR were used. For this, the composition of the granulometry of the light aggregate and the appropriate water / cement ratio were defined, and adequate values of resistance to compression, bending and absorption were considered.Therefore, the composition of the granulometry of the light aggregate and the appropriate water/cement ratio were defined, and adequate values of resistance to compression, bending and absorption were considered. Then, the influence of the incorporation content of the lightweight aggregate and the molding pressure to be used in the composites was evaluated, where flexural strength, absorption capacity, bulk density and visual analysis were performed.In addition, the thermal conductivity was determined in the optimized traces aiming the use of these composites as constructive elements for thermal protection of masonry. The lower values of absorption factors and voids index were reached when molding using the pressure level N1 (0.16 MPa). The bulk density factor of the pressure-molded composites reached the lowest values also under the pressure level N1 (0.16 MPa). The composites with higher contents of incorporation of molded waste without pressure showed no results resistance to bending and absorption.

Water Quality Management in Cienfuegos Bay (Cuba) with Integrative Approaches

The aim of this paper is to analyze the contributions of some tools developed with integrative approaches for managing water quality, considering the particular case of Cienfuegos Bay, Cuba. One of the contributions was related to the improvement of a hydrologic monitoring program of this bay with the assimilation of Environmental Totality and Integrated Watershed and Coastal Area Management (IWCAM) approaches. The development of an index for assessing water quality (WQI) of estuarine systems associated with a methodology for implementing a conceptual model on the eutrophication management from systemic and causal approaches, were another developed tools. In addition, a strategic program as a guide for the integrated management of this bay was included considering the participatory and systemic approaches. The assimilation of these integrative approaches for developing scientific tools allowed improving the environmental management at a contextual level and could be generalized in similar aquatic systems.

Wealth Generated by Actors in the Livestock-Meat Sector in the Budget of Decentralized Entities in the Department of Bermo, Niger

The self-managed cattle market in Bermo and Wurssena were surveyed during the months of August 2015 to July 2016, among actors in the livestock-meat sector, including butchers (wholesalers and retailers), collectors, conveyors, traders and intermediaries or witnesses to evaluate their contributions to communal pastoral entities. Livestock sales were higher in winter and post harvest periods. Revenues earned by livestock markets are reviewed. Thus, the communes registered respectively 1.920.000FCFA from the self-managed market of Bermo and 21.150.000 FCFA concerning that of Wurssena. These are taxes levied during sales. If we add the annual exercise taxes imposed on butchers, traders, dealers, intermediaries or witnesses, as well as the jobs created, the benefits are far from negligible.

Effects of Land use Change on Dung Beetle (Scarabaeinae) Community Structure in South Western Ghats

Thomas Latha, Thomas K. Sabu

Western Ghats in the Indian subcontinent is one of the world’s eight ‘hottest hotspots’ of biological diversity along with Sri Lanka. Land use changes in the Western Ghats caused by agricultural expansion and other anthropogenic activities have resulted in loss of forests and is a major threat to Western Ghats biodiversity. In the present study, Scarabaeinae dung beetles were used as biological indicators to study the effects of land use change on biodiversity in the South Western Ghats. Community attributes such as abundance, species richness, species composition, functional guild composition, temporal guild composition and beetle sizes were compared between a forest and agriculture habitat in the South Western Ghats region. Cow dung baited pitfall traps were used to collect dung beetles in the presummer, summer and monsoon season during 2007-2008 study period. The study showed that dung beetle community attributes were affected due to land use changes. Of the 31 species collected between the two habitats, only 15 species were shared between forest and agriculture habitat accounting for 51.6% species turnover. Low abundance recorded in agriculture habitat resulted from low diversity and amount of dung types available to beetles when compared to forest habitat, while high species richness in agriculture habitat resulted from the presence of heliophiles and synanthropic species that has established in the region owing to decades of anthropogenic disturbance. Functional guild tunneler, dominated both the habitats because of their superior competitive nature. Temporal guild was dominated by nocturnal guild in the forest due to the availability of dung at night from wild animals, and diurnal guild in agriculture habitat owing to the availability of dung during the day as a consequence of agricultural practices. Small beetles dominated both the habitats as a result of decline in large dung pad producing mammals in the region as a consequence of anthropogenic disturbance. Further deterioration of forests in the region is important to conserve the remaining forest specialists.

Occurrence of entomopathogenic nematodes in Golaghat District of Assam

Gitanjali Devi, Jisna George, Mitali Saikia

A survey of entomopathogenic nematodes was conducted in different vegetations of Golaghat district of Assam. Soil samples were tested for the presence of steinernematid and heterorhabditid nematodes by baiting with Galleria mellonella larvae. Out of 100 soil samples studied only one was positive for entomopathogenic nematodes (1%), containing one Steinernema isolate. Morphological and morphometrical studies were undertaken to characterize the isolate. The Steinernema isolate was identified as S. kushidai.

Nursery Method for Damping - off Disease in True Seed Cultivation of Cluster Onion

M.S.W. Fernando, S.H.S.A. De Silva

Onion (Allium cepa L.) is an important cash crop grown in Sri Lanka. Cluster onion cultivation in Sri Lanka is mainly grown using mother bulbs as planting material. With the introduction of true seed technology, the costs of planting material can be reduced. In general, when using seeds, the plants must be raised in a nursery for 28 days before they can be planted in a field. However, there is a gap in nursery techniques when using seeds and while expanding onion cultivations using true seed. This is a negative factor in the expansion of seed technology for agro-industrial areas such as Jaffna, Kalpitiya, Sri Lanka, since they do continues cultivation in their farm land. Therefore, it is required to maintain an indoor nursery if the onion is expected raise from seeds. Two soil-borne diseases that cause true seed culture in Cluster onions are damping-off (caused by Fusarium spp., Pythium spp., and Rhizoctonia solani) and Fusarium basal rot. These are the main constraint to popularizing the true seed crop. Main objective of this study was to identify the best management method for nurseries to achieve a low incidence of damping – off disease, which will help to obtain a high number of healthy stands. The sterilized normal nursery soil mix used in nursery trays in the shade showed a significantly (p

Typology of Nurseries and Adoptionâ€™s level of the Technique of Plants Derived Stem Fragment â€˜PIFâ€™ for the Production of Plantain Planting Material (Musa spp.) in CÃ´te dâ€™Ivoire

KOUA Tano Charles Martin, KONE Tchoa, TOURE Yaya, KONE Mongomake

One of the major constraints limiting the development of plantain cultivation is the lack of planting material. In Côte d'Ivoire, to overcome this constraint, the FIRCA (Fond Interprofessionnel pour la Recherche et le Conseil Agricole / Interprofessional Fund for Research and Agricultural Advisory) has organized training workshops on PIF technique (Plants Derived from stem fragment). The objective of this study was to take stock of adoption of the PIF technique for seed production of plantain in Côte d’Ivoire, in order to identify the limits. A survey was carried out in the intervention zones of nurserymen during the periods of October-December 2015 and July-September 2016. The informations collected concern the socio-economic impact of PIF on nurserymen and the level of mastery of the technique by nurserymen. A total of 87 nurserymen were visited. About 75% of the nurserymen are men and 48% are over 46 years old. The purchase price of vivoplants fluctuated between 150 and 250 F. CFA. The number of seedlings sold per nurseryman ranged from 6,000 to 180,000 per year. The survival rate in acclimation was at two months between 40 - 85% and at four months between 35 - 60%. The average number of vivoplants produced per explant ranged from 1.87 to 17.01. 28.73% of the nurserymen used suckers of poor quality and 44.82% of suckers of middle quality. 44.67% of nurserymen have limited control of the reactivation technique. In Côte d’Ivoire, the nurserymen improved the availability of seeds for plantain producers in the form of vivoplants.

In-vitro Antibiotic Activity of Dry Ginger Root Extract against Potential enteropathogenic Bacteria isolated from two Weeks old Broiler Chickens

Zige V. D., Ofongo R. T. S.

Zoonotic enteropathogenic bacteria of poultry origin is a source of concern to public health. Dependent on various factors, poultry birds may not necessarily fall prey to sub-clinical infections induced by zoonotic enteropathogenic bacteria. A preliminary study was carried out to determine antibacterial activity of dry ginger root (Zingerbain officinalle) extract on Salmonella sp and Escherichia coli isolated from the crop, ileum and caecum of two weeks broiler birds. The in-vitro antibacterial activity was determined by agar disc diffusion method on pre-prepared sensitivity test agar with respective cells inoculated and incubated after 24 hours. Zone of inhibition measured in millimeters after observation gave an inhibition zone of 11.8 ± 2.2, 15.0 ± 2.4, 15.0 ± 2.4 and 14.0 ± 2.9, 13.0 ± 2.3, 8.2 ± 2.6, 15.0 ± 2.2, against Salmonella and E coli respectively, isolated from crop, ileum and caecum. The highest zone of inhibition was observed in the ileum (15.0 ± 2.4) for Salmonella and caecum (15.0 ± 2.2) for E coli. The least was observed in crop (11.8 ± 2.2) and ileum (8.2 ± 2.6) respectively. It is evident that dry ginger root extract has anti-bacterial activity against Salmonella sp and E. coli isolated from the gut of two weeks old broiler birds.

Cellulase and hemicellulase Activity under Submerged Fermentation of Rice Mill feed by Fungi

Ofongo R.T.S., Ohimain E.I., E. A. Iyayi

Several agro-industrial by products are utilized in the synthesis of enzymes and production of other value-added products. This experiment was designed to access the cellulase and hemicellulase enzyme activity of three fungi (Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma viride and Rhizopus oryzae) in mono and mixed culture submerged fermentation using rice mill feed as substrate. The cellulase enzyme complex (cellulase (carboxy methyl cellulase, filter paper activity, β-glucosidase activity) and hemicellulase (β-xylanase and β-xylosidase) were determined respectively. Carboxy methyl cellulase activity was significantly improved by a mixed culture of all three fungi (4.90U/ml) and a mixed culture of Trichoderma viride and Rhizopus oryzae (4.83U/ml). There was no significant difference (p>0.05) in concentration of carboxy methyl cellulase synthesized in mono culture submerged fermentation of rice mill feed but numerically high values were recorded with Trichoderma viride and Rhizopus oryzae. The activity of β-glucosidase was significantly (p

Effect of biostimulants on the nutrition of maize and soybean plants

Ana Carolina Feitosa de Vasconcelos

The presence of humic substances in biostimulants composition affect positively plantgrowth by the improvement of the cation exchange capacity of the soils (CEC) and also by theformation of water soluble complexes with ions which can be uptaken by roots. Biostimulantsimprove plant growth due to the cytokinin and humic acids present in their composition. Over theyears the use of these products has been increasing and it is necessary to conduct more studies toevaluate their efficiency in promoting plant growth. The aim of this research was to evaluate theeffect of biostimulants (Brotax Solo®, Naturvital®, PT4-O® and Brotax-5®), applied with andwithout mineral fertilization, on nutrient uptake by maize and soybean plants. A greenhouseexperiment was conducted in Piracicaba, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Three-liter pots were filledwith 0-20 cm depth samples of Quartzipsamment soil. Base saturation was increased to 60% byapplying lime in the samples following incubation for 20 days at 80% the water retentioncapacity. After this period, mineral fertilizers were added to pots of specific treatments. Theapplied doses in L ha-1 were:Brotax Solo®: 0; 150 and 300; Brotax-5®: 0; 8 and 16; Naturvital®:0, 25 and 50; PT4-O®: 0; 0.5 and 1; referring to control, recommended dose by manufacturer and100% higher than this one, respectively. The products were diluted in water and they wereapplied in the pots 21 days after planting. Two months after planting, plant tops were collected,dried, weighted and nutrient contents in plants were determined. Data were subjected to analysisof variance (ANOVA) and means were compared by the LSD test (α = 0.05). Nutrient content inplants was higher in fertilized than in non-fertilized pots, for all products and crops. Ca and B;Zn; K; Ca and Mg contents were higher in maize plants treated with Brotax Solo®, Naturvital25®, PT4-O® and Brotax-5®, respectively. In soybean plants only the product PT4-O® showedincrement in Fe content. The amount of nutrients and humic acids in the studied products was notsufficient to increase significantly the amount of nutrients in the maize and soybean plants.