Agricultural Food Security Research Articles

Citrus leaf disease detection through deep learning approach

The majority of people in the world directly or indirectly depend on agriculture. Plant diseases are a significant threat to agricultural production and food security. Due to its high nutritional value, citrus fruit is one of the most abundant fruits in the world. However, different diseases are responsible for degraded citrus production as well as financial losses to the farmers. Traditionally, visual observation by experts has been attended to diagnose plant diseases. Usually, plant leaf disease recognition methods mainly rely on expert experiences to manually extract the colour, composition, and other features of diseased leaf images. Black spot, greening, canker, and melanoses are four common citrus leaf diseases. Rapid and accurate diagnosis of these diseases is a demand of time. Deep learning is a promising solution to these problems. There are different types of deep learning architecture like ImageNet, GoogleNet, VGG16, ResNet50, and InceptionV3, which show promising results in different object detection. Though most of these benchmark models give almost similar accuracy. However, this paper uses two deep learning models to find the better ones for the detection of citrus leaf disease detection. Hence, InceptionV3 outperforms VGG16 in terms of accuracy.

Role of Agricultural Extension Services (AES) on Farm Productivity and Household Food Security in Tanzania

Abstract This study explores the effects of agricultural extension services on farm productivity and food security in Tanzania using data from the 2019/20 National Sample Census of Agriculture. The study used an Ordinary Least Square and Tobit regression models to examine the effects of agricultural extension services on agricultural productivity and food security measured in harvest per acre and Household Food Insecurity Access Scale (HFIAS) respectively. The findings highlight a significant positive correlation between using agricultural extension services and increased farm productivity and food security. These results emphasize substantial policy implications suggesting a strategic focus on enhancing the accessibility and effectiveness of extension services particularly among smallholder farmers. Furthermore, the government and stakeholders need to prioritize and invest in expanding extension services to smallholder farmers. This involves improving service quality to address the specific needs of smallholder farmers. Such approaches may contribute to improved farm productivity and food security in Tanzania.

The involvement of phytohormones in plant–pathogen interaction

Plant–pathogen interactions involve intricate signaling networks that coordinate the plant immune response. Recognition of pathogens through pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) triggers activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways, initiating a cascade of defense mechanisms. Central to these responses is the synthesis of phytohormones such as salicylic acid (SA), auxins–indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), and gibberellins–gibberellic acid (GA), pivotal for immune activation. This review explores the multifaceted roles of these phytohormones in plant immunity, drawing on recent findings from Arabidopsis thaliana and Gossypium hirsutum studies. The review discusses MAPK-mediated activation of TGA1/4 (TGACG sequence-specific binding protein 1/4) transcription factors enhancing SA biosynthesis via isochorismate synthase (ICS). Increased SA levels activate NPR1, promoting gene expression in immune-related pathways including systemic acquired resistance (SAR). Concurrently, pathogen-induced IAA synthesis activates auxin-responsive genes crucial for immune responses. Elevated biosynthesis of IAA from L-tryptophan activates these genes by degrading repressor molecules. IAA acts antagonistically to SA, conserving energy during pathogen infection. Additionally, GA is vital for plant growth and development, operating DELLA (Asp–Glu–Leu–Leu–Ala) protein degradation with the formation of a complex with gibberellin insensitive dwarf 1 (GID1). Once DELLA prevents releasing GA-related response reactions, it is extremelly crucial for GA actions. In general, the review explores the intricate interplay between SA, IAA, and GA, highlighting SA's antagonistic regulation of GA signaling and the synergistic effects of auxin and GA. Understanding these hormone–mediated pathways is crucial for elucidating precise mechanisms underlying plant immunity. Insights gained could inform strategies to enhance plant resistance against pathogens, contributing to sustainable agriculture and global food security efforts.

Analysis of the Distribution Pattern of Phenacoccus manihoti in China under Climate Change Based on the Biomod2 Model.

The changing global climate has significantly impacted the spread of plant pests. The cassava mealybug (Phenacoccus manihoti) is among the most dangerous quarantine pests affecting cassavas worldwide, causing substantial losses in agricultural production and food security across several regions. Although China is currently free of the cassava mealybug, its proximity to affected countries and extensive trade with these regions necessitate a detailed understanding of the pest's distribution pattern and dynamic ecological niche changes. Using the Biomod2 model, we selected two historical climate scenarios and two future climate scenarios (SSP1-2.6 and SSP5-8.5) to investigate the distribution patterns, potential habitats, distribution centers, and dynamic ecological niches of cassava mealybugs in China. Key environmental variables influencing the distribution were identified, including bio4, bio8, bio12, bio18, and bio19. The potential habitat of cassava mealybugs is mainly located in several provinces in southern China. In the future, the suitable habitat is projected to expand slightly under the influence of climate change, maintaining the overall trend, but the distribution center of suitable areas will shift northward. Dynamic ecological niche prediction results indicate the potential for further expansion; however, the ecological niches may be unequal and dissimilar in the invaded areas. The predictions could serve as a valuable reference for early warning systems and management strategies to control the introduction of cassava mealybugs.

Trend Analysis of Poultry production, population growth and distribution in Ethiopia

Ethiopia's poultry sector plays a vital role in agricultural development, food security, and rural livelihoods. Despite its importance, there remains limited understanding of the trends in poultry production, population growth, and distribution across the country. Hence, this manuscript presents a comprehensive trend analysis of poultry production, population dynamics, and distribution patterns in Ethiopia from 2004 to 2022. Data from the Central Statistical Agency (CSA) and FAOSTAT were analyzed using non-parametric statistical methods to assess trends in poultry production and population growth. The analysis reveals a consistent upward trend in the poultry population across various regions of Ethiopia except for a slight decrease observed in Addis Ababa during 2004-2007, with indigenous breeds dominating the landscape. Despite challenges such as disease outbreaks and limited commercialization, the poultry sector has experienced significant growth, driven by factors like population increase and shifting dietary preferences. The study also highlights increasing trends in egg and meat production, indicating the sector's potential for further expansion. Recommendations are provided for policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders to promote sustainable growth, enhance food security, and improve the livelihoods of poultry farmers in Ethiopia. Overall, the findings underscore the importance of continued investment and innovation in the poultry sector to realize its full potential in contributing to Ethiopia's agricultural development and economic prosperity.

Precision Fertilization: A critical review analysis on sensing technologies for nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium quantification

Fertilization is paramount for agriculture productivity and food security. Plant nutrition pre-established recipes and nutrient uptake are rarely managed by changing the fertilizer composition at the different stages of the plant life cycle. Herein we perform a literature review analysis – since the year 2000 and onwards – of the state-of-the-art capabilities of Nitrogen, Phosphorous, and Potassium (NPK) sensors for liquid fertilizers (e.g., hydroponics). From the initial search hits of 1660 results, only 53 publications had relevant information for this topic; from these, only 9 had NPK quantitative information. Qualitative analysis was performed by determining the number of publications for each nutrient, according to sample complexity and existing single, multiplexed or hybrid technologies. Quantitative assessment was performed by extracting the bias and linearity, the limit of detection and concentration ranges of sensor operation, framed into the context of the sensor technology development stage and sample compositional complexity. The most common technologies are colorimetry, ion-selective electrodes, optrodes, chemosensors, and optical spectroscopy. The most abundant technologies are for nitrate quantification, from which ion-selective electrodes are the most widely used technology, and sensors for phosphate quantification are the less developed. Most are at low technological levels of development, not dealing with the complexity of agriculture samples due to matrix effects and interference. Measuring the fertilizer composition, nutrient uptake, the state of the chemical network, and controlling the release of nutrients using new functional materials, is one of the most important challenges ahead for the existence of precision fertilization. Intelligent sensing and smart materials are today the most successful strategy for dealing with matrix effects and interferences, being led by ion-selective electrodes and spectroscopy technologies.

Molecular Cloning and Functional Identification of a Pericarp- and Testa-Abundant Gene's (AhN8DT-2) Promoter from Arachis hypogaea.

Cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is a key oil- and protein-providing legume crop of the world. It is full of nutrients, and its nutrient profile is comparable to that of other nuts. Peanut is a unique plant as it showcases a pegging phenomenon, producing flowers above ground, and after fertilization, the developing peg enters the soil and produces seeds underground. This geocarpic nature of peanut exposes its seeds to soil pathogens. Peanut seeds are protected by an inedible pericarp and testa. The pericarp- and testa-specific promoters can be effectively used to improve the seed defense. We identified a pericarp- and testa-abundant expression gene (AhN8DT-2) from available transcriptome expression data, whose tissue-specific expression was further confirmed by the qRT-PCR. The 1827bp promoter sequence was used to construct the expression vector using the pMDC164 vector for further analysis. Quantitative expression of the GUS gene in transgenic Arabidopsis plants showed its high expression in the pericarp. GUS staining showed a deep blue color in the pericarp and testa. Cryostat sectioning of stained Arabidopsis seeds showed that expression is only limited to seed coat (testa), and staining was not present in cotyledons and embryos. GUS staining was not detected in any other tissues, including seedlings, leaves, stems, and roots, except for some staining in flowers. Under different phytohormones, this promoter did not show an increase in expression level. These results indicated that the AhN8DT-2 promoter drives GUS gene expression in a pericarp- and testa-specific manner. The identified promoter can be utilized to drive disease resistance genes, specifically in the pericarp and testa, enhancing peanut seed defense against soil-borne pathogens. This approach has broader implications for improving the resilience of peanut crops and other legumes, contributing to sustainable agricultural practices and food security.

Combining Desulfurisation Gypsum and Polyacrylamide to Reduce Soil Salinity and Promote Buckwheat Photosynthesis

ABSTRACTSoil salinisation poses a significant threat to global agricultural production and food security. China is among the countries most severely impacted by soil salinisation. To investigate the improvement technology for saline–alkali stress in buckwheat, a typical multigrain crop in northwest China, a coupling regulation study using desulfurisation gypsum and polyacrylamide (PAM) was conducted in 2019 and 2020. Desulfurisation gypsum was applied at 0, 5.5, 11, 16.5 and 22 kg·ha−1, while PAM was applied at 0, 15, 30, 45 and 60 kg·ha−1. The results demonstrated that applying 11 t·ha−1 desulfurisation gypsum and 30 kg·ha−1 PAM effectively reduces soil salinity and pH, averaging 81.79% and 6.07%, respectively. Furthermore, it did not cause soil heavy metal pollution and created the best soil environment for buckwheat growth. Among the models tested, the nonrectangular hyperbolic model was the most accurate in describing buckwheat's photosynthetic light response. The optimal treatment for achieving the best photosynthetic performance—measured by apparent quantum efficiency, maximum net photosynthetic rate, light compensation point, light saturation point, dark respiration rate, stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2 concentration, transpiration rate, leaf water use efficiency and yield—was achieved through applying 11 t·ha−1 desulfurisation gypsum and 30 kg·ha−1 PAM. Therefore, desulfurised gypsum and PAM should be applied at 11 t·ha−1 and 30 kg·ha−1, respectively, to improve buckwheat's adaptability to different light intensities while promoting its photosynthetic response in saline–alkali soils. This study provides an effective technical scheme for reducing salt and promoting the growth of crops under salinity stress, which is of great significance for improving salinity land in arid areas.

Comparative Analysis Highlights Uniconazole's Efficacy in Enhancing the Cold Stress Tolerance of Mung Beans by Targeting Photosynthetic Pathways.

Soybean (Glycine max) and mung bean (Vigna radiata) are key legumes with global importance, but their mechanisms for coping with cold stress-a major challenge in agriculture-have not been thoroughly investigated, especially in a comparative study. This research aimed to fill this gap by examining how these two major legumes respond differently to cold stress and exploring the role of uniconazole, a potential stress mitigator. Our comprehensive approach involved transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, revealing distinct responses between soybean and mung bean under cold stress conditions. Notably, uniconazole was found to significantly enhance cold tolerance in mung bean by upregulating genes associated with photosynthesis, while its impact on soybean was either negligible or adverse. To further understand the molecular interactions, we utilized advanced machine learning algorithms for protein structure prediction, focusing on photosynthetic pathways. This enabled us to identify LOC106780309 as a direct binding target for uniconazole, confirmed through isothermal titration calorimetry. This research establishes a new comparative approach to explore how soybean and mung bean adapt to cold stress, offers key insights to improve the hardiness of legumes against environmental challenges, and contributes to sustainable agricultural practices and food security.

Vulnerability assessment of aerosol and climate variability for rice and maize yield using EO datasets for sustainable agriculture over India.

Human-generated aerosol pollution gradually modifies the atmospheric chemical and physical attributes, resulting in significant changes in weather patterns and detrimental effects on agricultural yields. The current study assesses the loss in agricultural productivity due to weather and anthropogenic aerosol variations for rice and maize crops through the analysis of time series data of India spanning from 1998 to 2019. The average values of meteorological variables like maximum temperature (TMAX), minimum temperature (TMIN), rainfall, and relative humidity, as well as aerosol optical depth (AOD), have also shown an increasing tendency, while the average values of soil moisture and fraction of absorbed photosynthetically active radiation (FAPAR) have followed a decreasing trend over that period. This study's primary finding is that unusual variations in weather variables like maximum and minimum temperature, rainfall, relative humidity, soil moisture, and FAPAR resulted in a reduction in rice and maize yield of approximately (2.55%, 2.92%, 2.778%, 4.84%, 2.90%, and 2.82%) and (5.12%, 6.57%, 6.93%, 6.54%, 4.97%, and 5.84%), respectively. However, the increase in aerosol pollution is also responsible for the reduction of rice and maize yield by 7.9% and 8.8%, respectively. In summary, the study presents definitive proof of the detrimental effect of weather, FAPAR, and AOD variability on the yield of rice and maize in India during the study period. Meanwhile, a time series analysis of rice and maize yields revealed an increasing trend, with rates of 0.888 million tons/year and 0.561 million tons/year, respectively, due to the adoption of increasingly advanced agricultural techniques, the best fertilizer and irrigation, climate-resilient varieties, and other factors. Looking ahead, the ongoing challenge is to devise effective long-term strategies to combat air pollution caused by aerosols and to address its adverse effects on agricultural production and food security.

Implementation of Sustainable Agricultural Land Transfer Policy in Sidrap Regency

Agricultural land conversion is a crucial issue in facing the challenges of food security and natural resource conservation. Sidrap District, as one of the agricultural regions in Indonesia, faces significant pressure related to agricultural land conversion. Therefore, the implementation of local government supervision policies is very important. This research aims to analyse the implementation of local government supervision policies on agricultural land conversion in Sidrap Regency. This research uses a qualitative method with data sources from interviews, documentation, and observation. The data of this study used Nvivo 12 Plus to obtain relevant analyses. The findings of this study show that in the implementation of the policy to monitor the conversion of agricultural land in Sidrap District, there are two main approaches, namely preventive and repressive approaches, which work together to maintain the integrity of agricultural land. The preventive approach focuses on prevention efforts, while the repressive approach aims to enforce regulations with appropriate sanctions. In addition, determinant factors such as communication, resources, disposition and bureaucratic structure also play a crucial role in this overall process. With a holistic effort involving effective coordination between relevant agencies and improvements to these determinant factors, Sidrap district has the potential to maintain agricultural sustainability and food security in the future.

Dynamic evolution characteristics and hazard assessment of compound drought/waterlogging and low temperature events for maize

Hazard assessment is fundamental in the field of disaster risk management. With the increase in global warming, compound water and temperature events have become more frequent. Current research lacks risk assessments of low temperatures and their compound events, necessitating relevant hazard assessment work to improve the accuracy and diversity of maize disaster prevention and mitigation strategies. This study comparatively analyzed the dynamic evolution characteristics and hazards of compound drought/waterlogging and low temperature events (CDLEs and CWLEs) for maize in the Songliao Plain during different growth periods from 1981 to 2020. First, composite drought/waterlogging and low temperature magnitude indices (CDLMI and CWLMI) were constructed to quantify the intensity of CDLEs and CWLEs by fitting non-exceedance probabilities. Next, static and dynamic hazard assessment models were developed by fitting probability density and cumulative probability density curves to CDLMI and CWLMI. The results showed that the correlations between SPRI and LTI across different decades were mainly negative during the three growth periods. The hazard ratings for both CDLEs and CWLEs were relatively high in the northern part of the study area, consistent with the higher occurrence, duration, and severity of both CDLEs and CWLEs at higher latitudes. Relative to 2001–2010, the center of gravity of hazard shifted southward for CDLEs and northward for CWLEs in 2011–2020. The mean duration, frequency, and hazard were generally higher for CWLEs, but CDLEs were associated with more severe maize yield reductions. This study provides new insights into compound disaster risk assessment, and the research methodology can be generalized to other agricultural growing areas to promote sustainable development of agricultural systems and food security.

Insights into Bacillus zanthoxyli HS1-mediated systemic tolerance: multifunctional implications for enhanced plant tolerance to abiotic stresses.

Abiotic stresses significantly impact agricultural productivity and food security. Innovative strategies, including the use of plant-derived compounds and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), are necessary to enhance plant resilience. This study delved into how Bacillus zanthoxyli HS1 (BzaHS1) and BzaHS1-derived volatile organic compounds (VOC) conferred systemic tolerance against salt and heat stresses in cabbage and cucumber plants. Direct application of a BzaHS1 strain or exposure of BzaHS1-derived VOC to cabbage and cucumber plants promoted seedling growth under stressed conditions. This induced systemic tolerance was associated with increased mRNA expression and enzymatic activities of superoxide dismutase (EC 1.15.1.1), catalase (EC 1.11.1.6), or ascorbate peroxidase (EC 1.11.1.1), leading to a reduction in oxidative stress in cabbage and cucumber plants. Plants co-cultured with BzaHS1 and exposed to BzaHS1-derived VOC triggered the accumulation of callose and minimized stomatal opening in response to high salt and temperature stresses, respectively. In contrast, exogenous treatment of azelaic acid, a well-characterized plant defense primer, had no significant impact on the seedling growth of cabbage and cucumber plants grown under abiotic stress conditions. Taken together, BzaHS1 and its VOC show potential for enhancing plant tolerance responses to salt and heat stresses through modulation of osmotic stress-regulatory networks.

A Perennial Green Revolution to address 21st‐century food insecurity and malnutrition

AbstractFarming practices of the past century have dramatically increased annual crop yields to unprecedented levels but have consequentially created increasing ecological and public health concerns, posing a long‐term threat to global food security. Soil tillage and chemical inputs perpetuate soil erosion, biodiversity loss, wetlands eutrophication, carbon emissions, and other farming stressors. Concomitantly, accompanying poor dietary patterns and malnutrition increase the risk for chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and cancer, which account for greater than 70% of global mortality per annum. Altogether, such annual monocropping systems exacerbate food insecurity, necessitating action across the fields of public health, agriculture, nutrition, medicine, and environmental ecology, that is, a transdisciplinary approach. Herein, we argue that the perennialization of crops creates an opportunity to address the challenges of environmental sustainability and nutritional adequacy economically. Unlike annuals, perennial crops have deeper roots for increased drought tolerance and reduced needs for fertilization and irrigation. Adopting perenniality can result in greater drought tolerance and improved soil health while reducing erosion, farming labor, and seed purchasing. Furthermore, perennializing novel staple crops may offer a superior and diverse dietary profile of phytochemicals, fiber, and macronutrients compared to conventional annuals. Instead of traditional perennial tree crops, we focus on intermediate wheatgrass Kernza® (Thinopyrum intermedium) and sunflowers (Helianthus tuberosus, H. maximiliani, and Silphium integrifolium) as exemplars of perennial staple food crops for grain and oil, respectively, at different stages of perennial crop commercialization. Ultimately, we discuss how integrating perenniality has the potential to revolutionize global agriculture and address food security concerns for the remainder of the 21st century.

A Review on Scaling Up Successful Agricultural Extension Techniques for Global Benefit

Agricultural extension services are important for enhancing agricultural productivity, food security, and rural development. Examination of future and research needs highlights the significance of innovative approaches and emerging technologies, such as digital agriculture, precision farming, artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, and biotechnology, in transforming extension services. These technologies offer the potential to optimize resource use, increase yields, and improve supply chain transparency. Comprehensive impact assessments, including randomized controlled trials and mixed-methods approaches, are essential for evaluating the effectiveness of extension programs and understanding their long-term impacts on productivity, food security, and livelihoods. Supportive policy development and advocacy efforts are crucial for creating an enabling environment that promotes innovation, collaboration, and sustainable practices. This includes establishing regulatory frameworks, providing financial incentives, and integrating extension services into national development plans. Cross-disciplinary research and international collaboration are key to addressing the complex challenges facing agriculture, fostering the exchange of knowledge and best practices, and enhancing the capacity of national extension systems. Interdisciplinary research teams and systems thinking approaches can provide comprehensive solutions to agricultural challenges, while international research networks and development assistance programs can facilitate the transfer of appropriate technologies and practices. South-South cooperation offers additional opportunities for knowledge exchange and technology transfer between developing countries. By addressing these future directions and research needs, agricultural extension services can effectively contribute to sustainable agricultural development, improved livelihoods for farmers, and greater resilience to climate change. This approach will ensure that extension services remain responsive to the evolving challenges and opportunities in the agricultural sector, ultimately promoting global food security and economic growth.

The Effectiveness of The Fertilizer Voucher Scheme in General Tinio, Nueva Ecija

This study examines the efficacy of a fertilizer voucher scheme program aimed at improving agricultural productivity and mitigating food insecurity. Through a comprehensive analysis of data collected from respondents categorized by educational attainment, employment status, and length of service, the study evaluates perceived effectiveness in terms of understanding, agricultural income, and adaptation. Employing the Kruskal-Wallis H Test, significant differences in perceived effectiveness were identified among groups based on educational attainment and employment status, highlighting variations in perspectives. Specifically, college graduates and employed individuals reported higher levels of effectiveness compared to other groups, indicating potential correlations between educational and occupational backgrounds and program perception. However, no significant differences were observed based on the length of service, suggesting that tenure within the agricultural department does not significantly influence perceptions of program effectiveness. The study further identifies challenges in the targeting, distribution, and redemption of vouchers as key hindrances to the program's overall effectiveness. Notably, misallocation of vouchers and difficulties in accessing fertilizers lead to delays in application, compromising the program's intended impact. In response to these challenges, the study proposes several recommendations. These include enhancing data collection systems for better targeting, improving rural infrastructure to facilitate voucher redemption, investing in farmer education to promote informed decision-making, and implementing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track program performance. Additionally, the study suggests leveraging mobile technology for efficient voucher distribution, which can streamline administrative processes and enhance communication between administrators and farmers. By addressing these challenges and implementing the proposed recommendations, policymakers and stakeholders can enhance the effectiveness of fertilizer voucher schemes, ultimately contributing to improved agricultural outcomes and food security in the target communities.

The Integration Hydroponic Aquaculture Systems For Optimizing Catfish Growth Management with Arduino

Modern agriculture faces significant challenges such as limited land and declining soil fertility. The integration of hydroponic systems with aquaculture, particularly catfish farming, offers an innovative solution to enhance agricultural efficiency and productivity. This study explores the integration of hydroponic systems with aquaculture for the simultaneous cultivation of plants and catfish in a controlled environment. The research utilizes Arduino technology for monitoring temperature, pH, and water turbidity, which are essential for the health of fish and plants. The research method used is Research and Development (R&D), involving the following steps: (1) Identifying potential problems, (2) Data collection, (3) Product design, (4) Design validation, (5) Design revision, and (6) Product testing. The results indicate that integrating hydroponic systems with Arduino technology improves the efficiency of monitoring and managing the cultivation environment, positively impacting plant and catfish growth. The implementation of this system shows an increase in plant nutrient content and better fish health. And then, this research significantly contributes to the development of sustainable agriculture and global food security through the adoption of innovative technology.

The Nexus between Agricultural Education Curriculum and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Way Forward for Sustainable Practice

The Nexus between Agricultural Education Curriculum and Food Security in Nigeria: Challenges and Way Forward for Sustainable Practice

Bacillus siamensis 3BS12-4 Extracellular Compounds as a Potential Biological Control Agent against Aspergillus flavus.

Aspergillus flavus, the primary mold that causes food spoilage, poses significant health and economic problems worldwide. Eliminating A. flavus growth is essential to ensure the safety of agricultural products, and extracellular compounds (ECCs) produced by Bacillus spp. have been demonstrated to inhibit the growth of this pathogen. In this study, we aimed to identify microorganisms efficient at inhibiting A. flavus growth and degrading aflatoxin B1. We isolated microorganisms from soil samples using a culture medium containing coumarin (CM medium) as the sole carbon source. Of the 498 isolates grown on CM medium, only 132 bacterial strains were capable of inhibiting A. flavus growth. Isolate 3BS12-4, identified as Bacillus siamensis, exhibited the highest antifungal activity with an inhibition ratio of 43.10%, and was therefore selected for further studies. The inhibition of A. flavus by isolate 3BS12-4 was predominantly attributed to ECCs, with a minimum inhibitory concentration and minimum fungicidal concentration of 0.512 g/ml. SEM analysis revealed that the ECCs disrupted the mycelium of A. flavus. The hydrolytic enzyme activity of the ECCs was assessed by protease, β-1,3-glucanase, and chitinase activity. Our results demonstrate a remarkable 96.11% aflatoxin B1 degradation mediated by ECCs produced by isolate 3BS12-4. Furthermore, treatment with these compounds resulted in a significant 97.93% inhibition of A. flavus growth on peanut seeds. These findings collectively present B. siamensis 3BS12-4 as a promising tool for developing environmentally friendly products to manage aflatoxin-producing fungi and contribute to the enhancement of agricultural product safety and food security.

Biofertilizer Production using Phosphate-solubilizing Pseudomonas spp. Isolated from Rhizosphere Soil: Towards Indigenous Biofertilizer for Enhanced Crop Productivity in Katsina, Nigeria

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study offers an approach to sustainable agriculture by isolating and identifying phosphate-solubilizing Pseudomonas species from the rhizosphere soil of Wagini ward, Katsina state, for the production of biofertilizers. The research highlights the significant phosphate-solubilizing activity of these native strains, which enhances phosphorus availability to plants through the secretion of organic acids and enzymes. By demonstrating the positive effects of these Pseudomonas-based biofertilizers on maize, beans, and millet, this study provides valuable insights into the development of eco-friendly, cost-effective biofertilizers tailored to local agroecosystems, thereby promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Nigeria. Full Abstract The utilization of biofertilizers holds promise as a sustainable approach to enhance soil fertility and crop productivity while reducing reliance on chemical fertilizers. Beyond nitrogen, phosphorus is integral to various aspects of plant metabolism, including cell division, growth, development, sugar breakdown, and nuclear transport. The present study focuses on isolating Pseudomonas as phosphate-solubilizing bacteria from the rhizosphere soil to produce biofertilizer. Ten samples of rhizosphere soil samples were collected from agricultural fields in Wagini ward, Batsari Local Government area, Katsina state. The isolation and identification of Pseudomonas species from the soil samples were conducted using standard microbiological techniques, followed by screening for plant growth-promoting traits (phosphate solubilization). Subsequently, selected Pseudomonas species exhibiting robust phosphate solubilization were assessed for their efficacy in biofertilizer production, after which the produced biofertilizer was tested on maize, beans, and millet. The formulated biofertilizers demonstrated remarkable positive effects on the tested crops’ growth compared to those that were not treated with the Pseudomonas-based biofertilizer after seven days of cultivation under controlled conditions. The results of this study revealed that the isolated Pseudomonas strains exhibited significant phosphate-solubilizing activity. This indicates their potential to release phosphorus from insoluble forms, making it more accessible to plants. The solubilization activity was attributed to the secretion of organic acids and enzymes by the Pseudomonas strains, which can dissolve complex phosphates. This study underscores the importance of tacking native microbial resources for the development of eco-friendly and cost-effective biofertilizers tailored to local agroecosystems, thereby contributing to sustainable agricultural intensification and food security in Nigeria.