Local Farmers Research Articles

Addressing Soil Acidity Challenges: Promoting Tea Production as Alternative Crop in Ethiopia -- Review

The prevalence of acidic soils in Ethiopia presents a significant obstacle to improving agricultural productivity and restricts the implementation of sustainable farming practices that could enhance food security. Acidic soils are typically defined by their high concentration of hydrogen ions and a lack of essential nutrients, which collectively create an environment that is less conducive to the growth of many vital staple crops. Consequently, farmers faced with these conditions often struggle to achieve optimal yields, which exacerbates food scarcity and undermines economic stability. To effectively combat the issues posed by acidic soils, it is imperative to adopt targeted soil management strategies that are specifically designed to address these challenges. This may include the implementation of soil reclamation techniques that aim to neutralize soil acidity and restore nutrient balance. Additionally, comprehensive initiatives must be undertaken to promote agricultural resilience, which could involve the cultivation of alternative crops that are better suited to thrive in acidic conditions, such as tea. This paper aims to provide a thorough examination of several key aspects related to the development and management of acidic soils in Ethiopia. It will investigate into the processes that contribute to the formation of acid soils, as well as the various types of acid soil present in the country, explore the distribution of acidic soils throughout Ethiopia, highlighting areas that are particularly affected and the implications for local farming practices. Furthermore, the analysis will address the specific impact of soil acidity on crop growth, yield, and quality. It will investigate how soil acidity influences the availability of essential nutrients for plants, thereby affecting the overall health and productivity of crops grown in these conditions. The promotion of tea production in Ethiopia is another critical topic that tea cultivation not only offers a viable alternative crop but also presents opportunities for economic development and diversification in agricultural systems. The mechanisms that confer aluminum resistance in tea plants will be discussed, as well as the ways in which aluminum can stimulate growth in these crops, thereby illustrating the unique resilience of tea plants in acidic environments. By addressing these complex issues holistically, the paper seeks to contribute valuable insights and foster a deeper understanding of how to navigate the challenges posed by acidic soils in the Ethiopian agricultural landscape.

Investigating ‘Land-Use Trajectories’ in Mediterranean Rural Areas with Official Statistics and a Multiway Factor Analysis

While displaying diversified economic values, agro-ecosystems remain a relevant component of rural landscapes in Southern Europe. Coupled with the expansion of ecologically fragile areas because of climate warming, intensification and simplification of rural landscapes—e.g., in lowland—represent frequent trajectories of rural land-use change (RLUC) in the Mediterranean region and demonstrated to harm ecosystem functionality and ecological quality, especially in a context of socioeconomic transformations of landscapes. Additionally, an incipient ‘extensivation’ of geographically remote and economically marginal agricultural systems was also observed, likely following depopulation and land abandonment. The present study elaborated in this direction, providing an integrated RLUC evaluation scheme based on a multivariate analysis of land-use indicators derived from official statistics. This approach was applied to a continuous, long-term RLUC monitoring of a rural landscape in an ecologically complex Mediterranean region (Latium, Central Italy) experiencing multiple trends (e.g., lowland urbanization, crop intensification in gently sloping areas, and land abandonment/depopulation in steep zones) with diversified environmental implications. Based on administrative inventories, such evaluation was carried out over fifty years (1970–2020) in the study area, considering trends over time in selected crop surfaces at the municipal scale as inputs of a multiway factor analysis (MFA). This analysis quantifies stability in the main rural land-use types and possible changes in the dominant farming systems. Simplified indicators of land configuration (namely a crop intensity index and a rural woodland index reflecting ‘intensification’ or ‘extensivation’ of local farming systems) made available at the same spatial and temporal scales completed the informative picture corroborating MFA results. Taken together, our findings delineate multiple changes in rural landscapes, discriminating land-use trajectories in coastal and inland districts. These development trajectories were basically dependent on processes of (i) land abandonment in relict and remote areas, (ii) crop intensification in dynamic rural districts, and (iii) fringe urbanization along the coastal strip.

Analisis Persediaan Bahan Baku Susu pada Produksi Keju British Cheddar dengan Metode Economic Order Quantity ( EOQ ) di PT. Mazaraat Lokanatura Indonesia Pasuruan

To achieve profit, companies usually process raw materials into finished or semi-finished goods. Therefore, in this company, controlling and managing raw materials becomes an important factor influencing the smooth production process to achieve desired goals. Cow's milk is one of the popular agricultural products, and cheese is a dairy product consumed globally. PT Mazaraat Lokanatura Indonesia is a company that produces local Yogyakarta cheese and creamery products. The instability of organic milk quality from local farmers often negatively impacts the production process and the final quality of the company's British Cheddar Cheese products. This instability also affects raw material inventory planning, so the company must be more careful in maintaining the quality and quantity of organic milk stock to ensure optimal production. To address this issue, an analysis of raw milk inventory using the Economic Order Quantity (EOQ) method was conducted. This research began with observations and identification of problems related to raw material inventory management that could affect production efficiency and operational costs. Then, data collection was conducted regarding the demand amount, order time, ordering cost, and milk storage cost. The research results show that the application of EOQ is proven effective in optimizing inventory costs. Using EOQ allows the company to manage the optimal order quantity, significantly reducing total ordering costs by decreasing the order frequency.

Using continuous online monitoring measurements to determine the Serayu River’s water quality status

Abstract The Serayu River is a national strategic river that provides essential water to local water companies, industrial operations, agriculture, and household irrigation in the surrounding community. The Serayu River’s condition is currently deteriorating due to erosion and pollution. The primary goal of this investigation is to quantify the Serayu River’s water pollution. Data from continuous online monitoring stations at Wanganaji Dam (upstream) and Gerak Serayu Dam (downstream) will be used to assess temperature, DO, pH, TDS, DHL), turbidity, and ammonia levels. The research methodology for this study included descriptive statistical analysis and the STORET method, which is based on the regulatory framework established in the Republic of Indonesia by Ministerial Decree Number 115 of 2003 and Government Regulation Number 22 of 2021. The results show that the water quality upstream of the Serayu River (Wanganaji Dam Station) partially meets most of the measured parameters while still meeting the required quality standards. Meanwhile, the water quality in the downstream part of the Serayu River (Gerak Serayu Dam Station) has DO values (3.68-4.98 mg/L), turbidity (36.78-95.48 mg/L) that exceed the required quality standards. The water quality at the Serayu River’s two dams ranges from moderate to heavily polluted.

Effect of Culinary Tourism on Local Economic Development in South Africa

Purpose: The aim of the study was to assess the effect of culinary tourism on local economic development in South Africa. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: The study revealed this form of tourism, centered around experiencing local cuisine and food-related activities, contributes to the economic vitality of a region by attracting visitors who spend on dining, food tours, cooking classes, and local food markets. These expenditures generate revenue for local businesses, including restaurants, farmers, food producers, and hospitality services, thereby creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth. Additionally, culinary tourism fosters the preservation and promotion of local food culture and heritage, which can enhance a destination's unique appeal and competitiveness. This tourism niche often leads to increased demand for local ingredients, thereby supporting agricultural sectors and encouraging sustainable farming practices. Furthermore, the development of food festivals and culinary events can boost off-season tourism, providing a steadier stream of income for local economies. Overall, culinary tourism not only enhances the economic landscape but also reinforces community identity and pride, making it a valuable component of regional development strategies. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: Social exchange theory, multiplier effect theory and sustainable tourism development theory may be used to anchor future studies on assessing the effect of culinary tourism on local economic development in South Africa. To mitigate local governments, businesses, and community organizations should work together to create cohesive culinary tourism strategies. Policymakers should create frameworks that encourage sustainable culinary tourism practices.

СНИЖЕНИЕ ЖЁСТКОСТИ ОРОСИТЕЛЬНОЙ ВОДЫ ОЗОНИРОВАНИЕМ

Abstract. The article presents the research on the effect of ozone treatment on the hardness of irrigation water. The effect of hard water on plant growth and development has been analyzed. It has been revealed that excessive magnesium and calcium ions in irrigation water lead to the suppression of agricultural crops and a decrease in their yield. To conduct laboratory studies, water was taken from a natural reservoir located near the village of Gvazda, Buturlinovsky District, Voronezh Region, which is used by local farmers to irrigate agricultural land. The sample was divided into two parts, one of which was subjected to ozone treatment, and the second was a control variant. Laboratory studies have established that the total water hardness in the natural reservoir was 21 dH, which corresponds to 7.5 mg eq / l. This level of hardness is excessive and will negatively affect plants. Ozonation at an average ozone concentration in the ozone-air mixture of 4.67 mg/m3 allowed to reduce the total water hardness to 14 dH, which is comparable to 5 mg eq/l. Intensive water softening occurred at ozone treatment doses of up to 840 mg min/m3. Consequently, ozonation reduces the content of polyvalent metal ions, which in high concentrations have a negative effect on plants. Modern compact, energy-efficient, high-performance ozonizers can be easily integrated into the design of sprinkler machines. Softer water will have a positive effect on the efficiency of irrigation and the reliability of irrigation systems. In addition, ozone water treatment will have a bactericidal and disinfectant effect, which will prevent the development of various diseases and pests.

Straw type and nitrogen-water management balance rice yield and methane emissions by regulating rhizosphere microenvironment

Context or problemStraw incorporation improves soil fertility but also poses environmental challenges due to increasing methane (CH4) emissions in paddy fields. Whether nitrogen (N) and water management can balance rice yield and CH4 emissions under different crop straw incorporation is still not well-documented. ObjectiveA three-year field experiment was conducted to probe the comprehensive effects of N application ratios and irrigation regimes on rice yield, rhizosphere soil properties, and CH4 emissions, along with the underlying mechanisms of CH4 emission variations among different straw types. MethodsA two-factor randomized block design was used with two Japonica rice cultivars as materials in 2020 and 2021. The straw incorporation treatment included no straw incorporation (NS), wheat straw incorporation (WS), and rape straw incorporation (RS). The N fertilizer application treatments included local farmers' fertilizer practice (LFP) and increasing basal fertilizer rate (IBF). Two irrigation practices, continuously-flooded irrigation (CF) and alternate wetting and drying irrigation (AWD), were designed under the WS and RS treatments in 2022. Results1) WS-IBF and RS-IBF enhanced yield by 6.70∼9.03 % and 8.13∼9.50 % compared to WS-LFP and RS-LFP, respectively. AWD further increased yield by 6.28∼7.76 % compared to CF. 2) WS-IBF and RS-IBF enhanced dissolved organic carbon (DOC) content, synchronously boosted the methanogens (mcrA) and methanotrophs (pmoA) abundances, but decreased the pmoA/mcrA ratio, which significantly promoted CH4 emission flux in early growth stage. This resulted in a 5.04∼8.01 % and 4.60∼7.88 % increase in CH4 emissions compared to WS-LFP and RS-LFP, respectively, but a decrease in yield-scaled CH4 emissions. AWD reduced DOC content, facilitated the conversion of ammonium N to nitrate N, increased dissolved oxygen content, and hence decreased CH4 emissions by 23.41∼24.38 % compared to CF. 3) RS significantly increased microbial biomass C, N, and related metabolites, leading to a 1.29∼2.73 % increase in yield compared to WS. Meanwhile, RS promoted Nitrospira abundance as well as pterin and flavonoid metabolites associated with mcrA inhibition, while decreasing Anaeromyxobacter abundance, ammonium N, and DOC content, resulting in an increase in the pmoA/mcrA ratio and a noticeable drop in CH4 emissions compared to WS. ConclusionsRS combined with IBF and AWD is a more sustainable integrated practice in light of the synergistic improvement in rice production and environmental benefits. ImplicationsThe results reveal that optimizing N and water management can synergize high-yield and low-carbon by regulating rhizosphere microenvironment in rice production under crop straw incorporation.

Assessment of Storage Structure, Cause of Gran Loss, and Methods Used to Control Storage Losses

Post-harvest losses, leading to substantial grain loss, stem from various factors such as insect infestation, mold growth, rodent damage, adverse weather conditions, and inadequate storage practices. This study investigates the storage structures employed by farmers in Zenzelma Kebele and identifies the primary causes of grain loss. Despite the persistence of traditional storage structures like "Gotera" and "Gota," there is a noticeable lack of adoption of improved storage methods. The research highlights insects and rodents as major contributors to grain loss, both in the field and during storage. Farmers mainly use chemical measures to combat these pests, including fumigation and pesticides like Malathion. Additionally, sun drying remains a widely used traditional method. The study's findings underscore the urgent need for integrated pest management (IPM) strategies and the development of cost-effective, environmentally sustainable solutions to reduce post-harvest losses. Understanding local farming practices is crucial for designing effective interventions that enhance food security and promote economic sustainability in maize production. By focusing on the specific conditions and practices in Zenzelma Kebele, this study provides valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities for improving grain storage and reducing losses. Tailored interventions, informed by local needs and practices, are essential to address these issues effectively. The adoption of improved storage techniques and IPM strategies can significantly reduce grain losses, thereby boosting food security and supporting the livelihoods of farmers. This research advocates for a holistic approach to pest management and storage practices, encouraging collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and farmers. By promoting sustainable agricultural practices and innovative storage solutions, we can work towards a more secure and prosperous future for maize producers in Zenzelma Kebele and beyond.

Combined application of organic and inorganic fertilizers sustained rice yields and N accumulation and decreased soil-canopy system NH3 emission

Excessive inorganic fertilization created various environmental problems, and the combination of organic and inorganic fertilization not only maintains crop production but is also environmentally sustainable. A pot experiment was conducted in Yangzhou, China, to investigate the comprehensive effects of organic fertilization combined with inorganic fertilization on the yield and yield components, nitrogen (N) uptake of different organs, and soil-plant system ammonia (NH3) emissions of two rice cultivars, taking into account the interception of soil NH3 emissions by the rice canopy. The treatments included the conventional practice of inorganic N applied by local farmers (INO, 270 kg N ha−1), 30 % reduced INO (70 %-INO, 189 kg N ha−1), and organic fertilizer combined with 70 %-INO (ORG-INO). Compared to 70 %-INO, ORG-INO significantly increased grain yield by 38 %, mainly due to more panicles. Similarly, ORG-INO also significantly promoted N uptake in the two rice cultivars, especially in terms of grain N accumulation, relative to 70 %-INO. The increase in grain N accumulation caused by ORG-INO was mainly due to enhanced post-anthesis N uptake, rather than N remobilization of vegetative organs, which also suggested that organic fertilizer could modify the processes of N retention and release. There was no significant difference in rice yield and N accumulation between INO and ORG-INO treatments, which also indicated that ORG-INO was effective in maintaining grain yield while reducing inorganic fertilizer input. Moreover, ORG-INO significantly reduced soil-plant system NH3 emissions, while the rice canopy intercepted approximately 30 % of soil NH3 emissions throughout the entire growing season. In summary, ORG-INO treatment significantly reduced the yield-scaled NH3 emissions, and the partial substitution of organic fertilizers for inorganic fertilizers should be recommended to promote environmental sustainability while ensuring food security.

Unforeseen green tide of floating tubular Ulva meridionalis, a lethal threat to oyster farming, along the west coast of Taiwan: tracking its origin and ecophysiological insights

Abstract Ulva green tides have adversely affected coastal ecosystems. In June 2023 in Changhua County, Taiwan, an unprecedented floating tubular Ulva bloom spanning about 30 km of coastline caused about 30 % reduction in oyster yield as reported by local farmers. Understanding its taxonomic and ecological basis is crucial for preemptive and remedial measures. Based on molecular (rbcL and tufA) and morphological evidence, U lva meridionalis was the cause of this green tide. Haplotype network analysis (based on ITS) suggests that this green tide originated from northern China via the China Coastal Current. Historical survey data indicate that U. meridionalis arrived in Taoyuan Algal Reef (about 150 km north of the bloom area) as far back as 2018. Our ecophysiological experiments revealed that U. meridionalis exhibited a rapid daily growth rate with biomass increment up to 13–21 % when subjected to local nutrient-rich waters under lower salinity and spring-like conditions. Although historical ecological and poultry/livestock data analyses showed no noticeable change in sea surface temperature and rainfall over the past decade, a gradual rise in agricultural nitrogen and phosphorus output was observed. This taxonomic and ecological background lays the groundwork for long-term ecological monitoring. Moreover, this study exemplifies the detrimental impact of an unforeseen Ulva bloom on oyster farming.

Dampak Konversi Lahan Perkebunan Kelapa Lokal menjadi Perkebunan Kelapa Sawit dalam Perspektif Ekonomi Syariah di Desa Kuala Keritang, Indragiri Hilir, Riau

This aims to reveal the Impact of Converting Local Coconut Plantation Land into Oil Palm Plantations in an Islamic Economic Perspective in Kuala Keritang Village, Kec. Keritang, Kab. Indragiri Hilir, Riau. This thesis uses a qualitative approach by collecting data through observation, interviews, and documentation. The background causes the rubber farmers to switch functions to become oil palm farmers in Kuala Kritang Village is that work as a local coconut farmer is carried out every day and requires difficult maintenance while the price is cheap so that the farmer's income is not enough to meet economic needs. While oil palm work is only once every two weeks, it is more expensive than rubber and is sufficient to meet daily needs. The impact on the welfare of the families of local coconut farmers after the conversion to oil palm farmers in Kuala Kritang Village has a positive impact on farmers, their income increases, work is lighter, there is an increase in assets owned, and families feel more prosperous. If viewed from Maqasid Syariah, the impact of converting local coconut plantation land to oil palm for the economy of the people in Kuala Keritang Village is in accordance with Islamic Sharia.

Assessment of Suitable Growth Condition of Salvinia spp. for Sustainability of Floating Agriculture to Mitigate Climate Change Challenges on Crop Cultivation

Floating agriculture is an indigenous cultivation practice in the southern waterlogged areas of Bangladesh. Water hyacinth and other macrophytes were utilized in this agricultural method to prepare the floating bed. Among the numerous macrophytes used as mulch in floating beds, Salvinia spp. is a common species. To meet the local farmer's demand, it is necessary to improve the growth rates of these macrophytes so that they can be available year-round for preparing floating beds. For this purpose, an experiment was conducted to assess the growth conditions of Salvinia spp. under various nutritional media. Salvinia molesta and Salvinia cucullata were cultivated in four healthy media to carry out the experiment. The experimental design used in the present investigation was a split-plot arrangement in a Randomized Block Design (RBD), where four nutrients (NO3-; PO43-; NH4+ and Urea) were assigned to the main plots, while five different concentrations of nutrient (0, 1, 5, 10 and 15 mM) were given to the sub-plots. Salvinia spp. growth was examined in terms of morphological and physiological responses and the distribution of nutrients. The highest relative growth rate (RGR) and biomass production (g DW) were found in the medium with one mM and five mM PO43- in the case of S. molesta and one mM NH4+ in the case of S. cucullata. It was also observed that the plant growth rate became suppressed when this macrophyte grew above the 5mM of nutrient concentration, and this suppressed condition turned into a toxic state when the organic nutrient concentration reached a concentration of 15 mM or above. In the case of Urea, this harmful condition starts with a concentration of 5 mM or more for S. molesta and any concentration for S. cucullata.Nonetheless, very few variations were found in how various plant tissues and species absorbed mineral concentrations. The overall findings from this experiment indicate that both PO43- and NH4+ concentrations of 1 mM and 5 mM are comparatively more suitable than NO3- and Urea for the growth and multiplication of Salvinia spp. However, more research is required in addition to varying the quantities of phosphate and ammonium to make a definitive choice. J. of Sci. and Tech. Res. 5(1): 53-62, 2023

The influence of temperature on germination and seedling growth of sorghum

The extensification of agricultural activities to suboptimal areas, including dryland, is being considered. Sorghum as a drought-tolerant crop is usually cultivated in dryland areas in Indonesia. However local farmers are having difficulty in choosing quality seeds suitable for the specific area temperature condition. This study evaluated the physical quality of commonly used sorghum cultivars in Indonesia and their responses to several germination temperatures. The three sorghum cultivars used were Strong Brown (SB) Sorghum known as the local cultivar, Pale yellow (PY), and Light Brown (LB). The result revealed that each sorghum cultivar has specific seed characteristics, especially in the color, shape, and size of the seeds. The seeds of the Light Brown sorghum had the highest quality, followed by Strong Brown sorghum and PaleYellow sorghum cultivars based on both the tetrazolium test and the direct germination test. The optimum temperature for sorghum seed germination ranged from 25 to 35oC. Each sorghum cultivar has its specific temperature requirement for germination. Low temperature (20°C) potentially reduces the percentage of germination and delays the seed germination time of these three cultivars. LB cultivar has the highest relative growth rate (RGR) from the first week to the second week (R1), while the RGR from the first week to the third week (R2), LB sorghum cultivar is in the second position after the PY cultivar. Cultivar LB is suggested for cultivating in elevations 300-500 m asl, moreover cultivar SB elevations 50-250 m asl.

Community-Based Resilience Analysis (CoBRA) to Hazard Disruption: Case Study of a Peri-Urban Agricultural Community in Thailand

The expansion of cities and land use changes have led to the emergence of peri-urban areas representing a transition between fully urbanized and agricultural regions in Southeast Asia. Peri-urban communities provide essential ecosystem services but are vulnerable to climate-related disruptions and socioeconomic challenges. Utilizing their unique characteristics, peri-urban communities can contribute to sustainable development and resilience. This study assesses the potential of peri-urban areas to meet future challenges for sustainable development in a changing world, focusing on the local pandan farming community of Pathum Thani, approximately 53 km north of Bangkok, using the Community-Based Resilience Analysis (CoBRA) approach. A formally established group of peri-urban farming households identified COVID-19, water quality, and solid waste as their primary disruptive challenges. The community identified economic stability and resources (land ownership, financial security, and government support), community and social support (collaborative community, and healthcare facilities), an environmental dimension (sufficient food and clean water), and an information dimension (news and knowledge update) as key community resilience characteristics, which highlight their comprehensive approach to hazard resilience. The study concludes that the community was moderately resilient to hazards and COVID-19 was the primary disrupting event over the past 10 years. To address future challenges in peri-urban agriculture, it is suggested to focus on enhancing economic diversification, strengthening social networks and support systems, implementing sustainable land management practices, and promoting access to timely and accurate information. Additionally, investing in infrastructure for water management and waste recycling, supporting small-scale farming initiatives, and fostering collaboration between farmers and local authorities can contribute to building resilience in peri-urban agricultural communities.

Vanilla Export Destination Country Selection Strategy in an Effort to Optimize the International Market (Case Study of CV. Tanda Sentra Indonesia)

Indonesia is the second largest producer of vanilla in the world. This is because Indonesia produces quality and durable vanilla. The subject of the case study and the main object of this research is CV Tanda Sentra Indonesia, which is a company that produces dried vanilla and works with local farmers under the guidance of the company. CV Tanda Sentra Indonesia has exported to several countries, namely Italy, France and the UK. However, the company still has obstacles in determining export destination countries to be able to cover other countries. Therefore, this study aims to (1) analyze vanilla export destination countries using the PESTEL method, (2) conduct a SWOT analysis of related export destination countries, and (3) identify export strategies in optimizing the vanilla market. The research method used in this study is a qualitative method using PESTEL analysis. For data collection techniques, descriptive methods were used and analyzed using the PESTEL and SWOT methods. Then, weighting was carried out using the SWOT matrix and IFAS and EFAS weighting.

Interdecadal shifts of ENSO influences on Spring Central Asian precipitation

Spring Central Asian precipitation (SCAP) holds significant implications for local agriculture and ecosystems, with its variability mainly modulated by El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO). The ENSO–SCAP relationship has experienced pronounced interdecadal shifts, though mechanisms remain elusive. Based on observations and climate model simulations, these shifts may result from transitions in ENSO-induced meridional circulation and Rossby wave trains triggered by North Atlantic (NA) sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies. During high (low) correlation periods, ENSO induces strong (weak) vertical motion anomalies over Central Asia, while NA SST anomalies exert a weak (strong) counteracting effect, modulated by the Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO). In the positive (negative) phase of PDO, a slow (fast) decaying ENSO triggers a strong (weak) NA horseshoe-like SST anomaly in the post-ENSO spring, affecting the ENSO–SCAP relationship. Our study identifies a strengthening trend in the ENSO–SCAP relationship since the 2000s, indicating improved predictability for SCAP in recent decades.

IgT-mediated mucosal immunity and microbiota dynamics in snakehead (Channa argus) post Aeromonas veronii TH0426 and Aeromonas hydrophila TPS infection: implications for aquaculture disease management.

The aquaculture sector, vital to global food security, grapples with bacterial pathogens compromising fish health and industry sustainability. This investigation probes mucosal immune responses and gut microbiota dynamics in snakehead (Channa argus) post-Aeromonas infection, a prevalent aquaculture challenge. Employing infection models, we delineated the integral role of immunoglobulin T (IgT) in mucosal immunity and its interaction with gut microbiota. Fish from a local farm, maintained under controlled conditions, were infected with Aeromonas veronii TH0426 and Aeromonas hydrophila TPS. Post-infection, daily monitoring and sample collection at specified intervals were conducted for comprehensive analysis. Histopathology, quantitative PCR, immunofluorescence, and microbiota profiling revealed significant immune and microbial changes, particularly at day 7. Intestinal IgT, IgM, and pIgR gene expression surged, indicative of a robust response. Immunofluorescence microscopy confirmed increased IgT+ and pIgR+ cell infiltration in the epithelium. Post-infection dysbiosis, with altered bacterial composition, was partially offset by elevated IgT levels. These insights underscore IgT's crucial function in mucosal defense and suggest potential for probiotic and vaccine strategies to enhance aquaculture disease resilience.

Improving Irrigation Water Quality with Local Filters in Akungba - Akoko, Southwest, Nigeria

The shortage of freshwater for irrigating vegetables in Akungba Akoko, Nigeria, is a critical concern during the dry season, demanding urgent attention. Local farmers rely heavily on polluted well and stream water for irrigation, which poses significant health risks due to contamination from refuse and pollutants. Addressing this challenge requires the development of a simple, cost-effective treatment facility to remove contaminants and make the water suitable for irrigation. This research aimed to assess the effectiveness of a straightforward filtration system using various physical materials to improve water quality. Conducted at Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, the study focused on evaluating granite and river sand filtration on water collected from a local stream at Ibaka, Akungba-Akoko in April 7th, 2023. The filtered and unfiltered waters, categorized as follows: T<sub>0</sub> = Borehole water (Control), T<sub>1</sub> = Unfiltered water, T<sub>2</sub> = water filtered with granite, T<sub>3</sub> = water filtered with pure river sand, and T<sub>4</sub> = water filtered with combined physical filters were subjected to physicochemical and microbiological analyses to determine its suitability for irrigation purposes. The study revealed that using single or combined physical filtration materials led to a notable decrease in microbial levels in the water samples. Additionally, significant reductions in total solids (TS), total suspended solids (TSS), and total dissolved solids (TDS) were observed in water filtered through these materials, either alone or in combination. Granite filtration (T<sub>2</sub>) resulted in notably higher pH (5.57 Ms/cm), EC (172.00 μ. S/cm) and nitrogen (27.00 mg/L) levels, while combined filtration (granite and pure river sand) (T<sub>4</sub>) showed higher levels of phosphorus (9.35 mg/L). These findings demonstrate the efficacy of both singular and combined physical filtration materials in improving wastewater quality. Thus, employing these filtration methods, either individually or in combination, is recommended for local farmers, especially in Akungba Akoko, South West Nigeria, to enhance water quality for agricultural purposes.

Understanding the intricacies of rainfall dynamics using entropy measures

ABSTRACT The present study quantifies the variability of rainfall dynamics across multiple time-periods and various entropy measures. Daily gridded rainfall from 1951 to 2020 was used to study Haryana, India, based on entropy and advanced statistical methods. The post-monsoon season had high variability for Sirsa and Palwal districts due to the variation occurring in October and December. This means these months are responsible for causing variations in the winter season. Similarly, during the monsoon season, low variability was found in Panchkula, Ambala, Yamunanagar, and some parts of Kurukshetra due to low variability in July. It was also observed that intra-variability in both rainfall amounts and rainy days increased with an increase in the time scale for all districts in Haryana. However, inconsistency on rainy days was more pronounced than rainfall amounts, which further means that the distribution of rainfall intensity was highly inconsistent in the study region. This study provides valuable insights into regional rainfall characteristics, and it assists local farmers in adapting to resilient crop varieties and efficient water-management practices, especially during crop harvesting and planting. Also, those in urban planning, disaster vigilance, and many others may consider this study to make districts resilient and adaptable.

Farmer’s Knowledge on Utilization of Chemical Fertilizers as Soil Fertility Enhancement Option in Ruhumuro Sub-County, Bushenyi District

The study focused on assessing the farmer’s knowledge on utilization of chemical fertilizers as soil fertility enhancement option in Ruhumuro sub-county, Bushenyi district. It was limited to; establishing the local farmers’knowledge on the use of chemical fertilizers, investigating the factors that influence farmers’ decisions to utilize chemical fertilizers and establishing the benefits that local farmers achieve from utilizing chemical fertilizers. The study employed a cross-sectional research design and primary data was collected from 200 respondents. the data was analyzed using SPSS version 22.0. The study concluded that farmers had local knowledge on use of chemical fertilizers where they revealed that, fertilizer use is influenced by on agro-climatic conditions and farm characteristics at (p=.027), profitability is the principal incentive to adopt fertilizer use at (p=.021), fertilizer use ensure high productivity and yields at (p=.003). The decisions on fertilizer use has mainly considered credit access and price at (p=.026) Fertilizer use alter the soil properties at p= (.029). Fertilizer applied to farmers’ crops do not provide optimal economic returns to farmers as (p=.312) as non-significant. The study also concluded that there were factors that influence the farmers’ decisions to utilize chemical fertilizers. Such as; ownership of land (p=.022), labour avialability (p=.024), Cost of the fertilizers (p=.004) and un-availability of credit services/financial institutions offering services (p=.028). Non-significant factors included; farming experience and level of education (p=.427, p=.369). The study concluded that there were benefits that local farmers achieve from utilizing chemical fertilizers. Such as; Restoration of soil fertility (<i>x<sup>2</sup></i> = 3.002, p=0.021), Sustainable food production (<i>x<sup>2 </sup></i>= 2.441, p=0.001), Income security (<i>x<sup>2</sup></i> = 0.871, p= 0.010), Improvement of crop yields (<i>x<sup>2</sup></i> = 3.123, p=0.023) and Contribute to greenhouse effect (<i>x<sup>2</sup></i> = 4.211, p=0.141) which was not significant. The study recommends that, there is a need for policymakers and agricultural stakeholders to consider the social, economic, and environmental implications of the widespread use of chemical fertilizers. Constant extension training services on chemical fertilizer use should be done to help farmers use the recommended dosage of fertilizers to avoid environmental degradation due to lack of adequate knowledge on fertilizer utilization. Government should undertake legal reforms to recognize and protect the rights of vulnerable groups to own and use land. They should also put in place mechanisms to ensure that the law is enforced.