Journal of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Animal Sciences

Cure Rate Characterization of Dunstan Chestnuts (Castanea Dentata x Mollissima) As A Function of Time, Temperature, Harvest Timing and Nut Characteristics

2025-02-21T12:50:39+03:00

Leaf-Based Varietal Categorization of Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas L. Lam.), a Potentially Healthful Vegetable, Using Image Processing and K-Means Clustering

2024-12-15T10:55:15+03:00

Sweetpotato (Ipomoea batatas Lam) leaves contain higher concentrations of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and carotenoids that are remarkable in health promotion. However, the nutrient content in sweetpotato leaves varies from variety to variety, and leaf shape and color are the key identifying factors for the varietal classification of sweetpotatoes. So, detecting sweetpotato leaves is essential for the in-situ identification of sweetpotato varieties and for developing intelligent agricultural systems. This study aimed to create a leaf-shape-based varietal classification technique for sweetpotato using image processing techniques coupled with a K-means clustering algorithm. 38 leaf images (RGB) of two sweetpotato cultivars were collected and pre-processed to extract relevant features. A distinct difference in leaf physical characteristics, i.e., leaf area, perimeter, circularity factor, breadth, and leaf ratio, between the two varieties was observed. K-means clustering algorithm identified two sweetpotato varieties as distinct clusters with centroid values (Cluster 0: Area 695627 and Cluster 1: Area 525895). Results revealed that sweet potato leaves in cluster 0 tend to have more prominent physical characteristics than in cluster 1. This result demonstrates the prospects of using machine learning and image processing techniques for in situ varietal classification of sweetpotato. The results bridge the visual characteristics and their quantitative assessment, fostering a deeper understanding of the plant's phenotype and supporting advancements in agriculture, research, and crop improvement.

Impact of Supplementing Urea-Molasses Multi-Nutrient Block (UMMB) on Growth Performance of Crossbred Sheep

2025-01-24T09:31:36+03:00

The urea-molasses-multi-nutrient block (UMMB) supplementation can be an efficient method to maximize rumen microbial activity through a balanced supply of protein, energy, minerals, and vitamins as the grazing of sheep on pastures may not meet their nutritional needs. The purpose of the study was to ascertain how crossbred sheep's growth was impacted by UMMB supplementation throughout varying time periods. Twelve crossbred male sheep were split up into four treatment groups with three replications on the basis of their initial body weight. Control group (T₀) continued to graze normally 10-h day^-1, while groups T₁, T₂, and T₃ were access to lick UMMB for 1-h, 1.5-h, and 2-h day^-1, respectively with 10-h grazing period. Sheep licking UMMB for 2 hours was found to have the numerically highest body weight (p>0.05). After 13 weeks of licking UMMB, their final body weights were 17.37±2.18 kg, 19.20±2.46 kg, 21.13±5.31 kg, and 22.27±2.58 kg, respectively for T₀, T₁, T₂, and T₃ groups. At weeks 2, 5, 7, 10 and 13, sheep's ADG (g) differed among sheep groups licked UMMB at various durations (p<0.05). Similarly, at week 6, 9 and 12, the ADG (g) also differed significantly among sheep groups licked UMMB at various durations (p<0.01). ADG (g) for whole experimental period (90 days) were 34.15±4.56, 59.26±5.82, 82.96±8.19 and 90.48±9.39, respectively for T₀, T₁, T₂, and T₃ groups (p<0.001). It can be concluded that the ADG increased linearly and significantly with increasing of the UMMB licking period and 2-h licking ensured maximum growth performance in crossbred sheep.

A Comprehensive Analysis of the Socio-Economic and Environmental Impacts of the Prolonged Dry Season in Lonsdale Village and Brother's Village, East Bank Berbice, Guyana

2024-12-06T16:57:25+03:00

The Effect of Climate Change and Variability on The Risk of Forest Fires in AL-Ghab Syrian Region During The Period 2007-2021

2024-12-16T12:41:56+03:00

Forest fires are one of the main threats to forest ecosystems in the Mediterranean region due to the effects of rising temperatures and the increasing severity, duration and recurrence of droughts. Daily meteorological data on precipitation and maximum temperatures at the El-Kreem station were used to estimate the change in forest fire risk in the Al-Ghab region of Syria over the period 2007-2021 using the Keetch & Byram Drought Index. Box plots and descriptive statistical analysis were used to examine the climatic characteristics of the study area. Trend lines were also used to determine the direction of change and estimate its value. The significance of the change was tested using the Mann-Kendall test. The results showed that the fire risk in this region is high to very high in all years, but varies significantly from year to year depending on the amount and distribution of precipitation and the level of maximum temperatures. The study also showed a clear and significant trend of increasing fire risk over the study period, which requires the development of appropriate strategies to manage this risk and ensure the sustainable development of important forest areas in the region.

Replacing Soybean Meal With Acacia Angustissima in Broiler Diets Strengthens Birds Skeletal Frame

2025-01-09T11:47:54+03:00

A robust skeletal system is vital for optimum health and vitality in broiler chickens and consequently the profitability of meat-type bird enterprises. Intense selection in meat-type commercial birds has resulted in rapidly growing birds called broilers whose skeletal frames, unfortunately, buckle under heavy weights. This study aimed to determine the effect of incorporating Acacia angustissima leaf meal at 0%, 5%, and 10% inclusion rates on tibia bone physical characteristics (length, weight, strength) and mineral (ash, calcium, and phosphorus) content. One hundred and fifty day-old Cobb 500 broiler chicks weighing 41.7 ± 1.56g were randomly allocated to 15 battery cages with each cage housing 10 chicks. Experimental diets were randomly assigned to cages. Birds were reared on a three-phase feeding system constituting starter, grower, and finisher diets. Water and feed were provided ad libitum for 42 days. Voluntary feed intake was recorded weekly. At day 42, two birds per replicate were randomly selected, weighed, and humanely slaughtered. The tibia bone was collected for physical and mineral content analyses. ANOVA revealed that treatment did not influence feed intake in birds (P=0.0625), but at 10% leaf meal, live body weight was depressed. Including A. angustissima leaf-meal at 5 and 10% strengthened (P<0.05) broiler tibia bones and increased (P<0.05) their calcium content. It was concluded that incorporating A. angustissima leaf meal at 5 % in broiler diets increased broiler bone strength without any adverse effects on the performance of broiler chickens.

The Effect of Microwave Electromagnetic Radiation on Microorganisms and Stored Grain Pests in Iraqi Local Wheat

2024-08-14T16:55:45+03:00

Contamination of stored grain with microorganisms and insects is a significant problem in the grain industry, particularly with Iraqi local wheat. This study examined the effect of microwave radiation on various bacteria and fungus strains, specifically Escherichia coli, Salmonella, and Aspergillus spp. The results concluded that microwaving at 500 W for 60 seconds is an effective and rapid method to reduce microbial contamination in Iraqi local wheat. In this experiment, all biological indicators were eliminated. Additionally, microwave radiation can effectively control insects such as Trogoderma granarium, Tribolium castaneum, and Oryzaephilus surinamensis found in Iraqi local wheat. Grain samples, each weighing 50 grams and containing 14% moisture, were infested with stored grain insects. These samples were then exposed to microwave energy at 500 W for 60 seconds. A complete (100%) mortality rate was achieved for adult Trogoderma granarium insects under these conditions.The average moisture loss in the wheat was recorded at 1.9 percentage points, with no significant differences observed in the quality characteristics of the microwave-heated wheat. Microwave disinfection can offer a continuous process, allowing for the treatment of large volumes of product in less time. It is considered a safe and competitive alternative to traditional methods, as it prevents environmental contamination and leaves no undesirable residues. Therefore, using microwaves can be an effective strategy for controlling insect infestations and microbial contamination in stored grains compared to other available methods.

Level of Agronomic Practices Adopted and Yield of Sorghum in the Tempane District of the Upper East Region, Ghana

2025-01-30T14:25:14+03:00

Sorghum is a food security crop for millions of people in regions where it is a staple food. It forms a significant part of the diet in northern Ghana; however, the regions are challenged with adverse climatic conditions, prolonged drought, and poor agricultural practices, making drought-tolerant crops like sorghum a food security crop. The study aimed to identify the agronomic practices adopted by the farmers in sorghum cultivation in the Tempane District of the Upper East Region of Ghana. A purposive sampling technique was used to obtain a sample size of 90 individual farmers in three communities of the District. A questionnaire was used to collect data and analyzed using SPSS and descriptive statistics were used to obtain frequencies and percentages. The study showed that 54.4% of the farmers use the bullock ploughing method in land preparation, as most farmers could not afford the cost of tractor ploughing. Of the farmers, 90% practice continuous cropping without improved fallow periods, and 60% control weeds only once. Most farmers cultivate one acre of land, and 84.4% planted local varieties which are low-yielding. 66.6% reported yields of 9-10 bags per acre while 83.3% obtained 31-40 bags on 3 acres. Planting time impacted yields; early June planting resulted in higher yields (10-15 bags) per acre compared to lower yields (5-7 bags) when planted in July. It was recommended that there is a need for targeted training programs aimed at educating farmers on improved agronomic practices in sorghum cultivation in the Tempane district.

Assesssing the Responsiveness to Demand Creation and Communication on Probiotics Use Among Fish Farmers in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria: A 9-Parametre Path Analytic Modeling Approach

2025-02-12T11:42:49+03:00

Aquaculture industries face challenges such as poor fish growth, infertility, disease outbreaks, and water quality issues, which negatively impact productivity. As the industry continues to expand, it plays a crucial role in the food supply chain. Consumers are increasingly demanding seafood products that are environmentally sustainable, organic, and free from antibiotics and harmful chemicals. This study aims to assess how demand creation communication influences the use of probiotics among fish farmers. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 180 respondents for the study. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire, and analysis was conducted using ANOVA. Path analysis (PLS-SEM) was used to test the hypotheses. Findings revealed that 76.9% of respondents were female, 96.8% were married, and the average age was 58.1 years. About 66.5% had secondary-level education, while 52% were traders, with an average of 34.5 years of experience in their primary occupation. Only 35.2% had moderate knowledge of probiotics, and the most common communication channel was through friends and neighbors (77.6%). A major issue identified was the lack of in-depth awareness regarding the benefits of probiotics in fish diets. Path analysis results showed that knowledge level was the primary influencing factor in probiotic adoption. To bridge this gap, it is recommended that both public and private organizations initiate probiotic education programs. Training and awareness campaigns, particularly through social media, should be implemented to enhance farmers' understanding and adoption of probiotics in aquaculture.

Composition Treatment Composition Treatment of Planting Media by Using Coffee Leather Waste Compost on The Growth of Arabic Coffee (Coffea Arabica) SeedsOf Planting Media By Using Coffee Leather Waste Composition On The Growth Of Arabic Coffee (Coffea Arabica) Seeds

2025-01-28T15:46:49+03:00

Sustainable Agriculture: A Catalyst for Inclusive and Resilient Development

2025-02-25T10:26:47+03:00

Indian agriculture has played a crucial role in transforming the sector, empowering farmers, ensuring food security of the nation. The sector employs 46 percent of the work force and contributes about 18% of GDP, laying foundation for modern agriculture practices. This includes introduction of high yielding crop varieties and modern inputs which have significantly increased the agricultural productivity. Subsequent focuses on white revolution, blue revolution, dairy and fisheries sector also paid attention to sustainability and productivity. Integrated farming practices have been adopted, leading to improved crop yields, enhanced soil health, biodiversity, reduced chemical use and improved water management. The Government of India has taken initiatives to benefit farmers by implementing schemes that enhance crop yield and ecosystem services. Emphasis is placed on boosting agricultural infrastructure, ensure farmers income against the crop losses and to meet food security issues addressing challenges in agriculture. The farmers are diversifying their cropping patterns according to their soil conditions and adopting new techniques with available irrigation resources suited to their agro-climatic zones. By addressing these key factors, sustainable agriculture demonstrates its potential to contribute to economically viable food production system and improve rural livelihoods.

Responses of Soil Exchangeable properties, Growth and yield of Orange-Fleshed Sweet Potato (Ipomoea batatas (L) Lam) to the application of N, P, and K fertilizer combination rates at Ikwo, Abakaliki Nigeria

2025-03-22T14:48:23+03:00

AThis study was carried out on a degraded Ultisol at Teaching and Research Farm, Faculty of Agriculture, Alex Ekwueme Federal University, Ndufu-Alike (AEFUNAI), Abakaliki Ebonyi state during the 2022 and 2023 planting seasons, to assess the responses of soil exchangeable properties, growth and yield of orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) to the application of N, P and K fertilizer rates at Ikwo, Abakaliki Nigeria. The treatments were Nitrogen fertilizer at four levels; 0, 45, 90, and 135 kg/ha; Phosphorus fertilizer at four levels; 0, 15, 30, and 45kg/ha and Potassium fertilizer at four levels; 0, 20, 40, and 60 kg/ha. The experiment was a factorial experiment arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three (3) replications. Growth and yield data were collected on OFSP. Soil samples were collected with a soil auger at a depth of 0 to 20cm at the end of the experiment for soil exchangeable properties determination. All data collected were subjected to ANOVA for a factorial experiment in RCBD at 5% probability level. The results showed that different combined rates of NPK fertilizers significantly (P < 0.05) improved soil exchangeable properties and growth and yield parameters of orange-fleshed sweet potato compared to the control in the two years of the experiment. However, the application of N, P and K at the rate of 90kgN-45kgP₂O₅-60kgK₂O recorded the highest number of OFSP leaves, number of branches, vine length, weight of OFSP storage root and total storage root yield in 2022 and 202.

Study of Moisture Sorption Characteristics of White and Yellow Gari and Its Thermodynamics

2025-03-24T14:52:16+03:00

Evaluation of moisture sorption characteristics of gari sold in Ebonyi, Enugu, and Abia state were studied. Freshly produced gari samples were collected from primary gari producers that sells at various markets located in the three aforementioned states. The samples code were; Abia white gari sample (ABW), Abia yellow gari sample (ABY), Ebonyi white gari sample (EBW), Ebonyi yellow gari sample (EBY), Enugu white gari sample (ENW), and Enugu yellow gari sample (ENY). The equilibrium moisture content (EMC) was determined using a standard Gravimetric method with tetraoxosulphate (VI) salt and water mixtures providing equilibrium relative humidity (ERH) of 15, 25,35, 45, 55 and 65% respectively to yield a water activity (aw) range of 0.0972 - 0.9811 at 30, 40 and 50 ^OC for adsorption and desorption isotherm. Sorption data generated were fitted into the BET and Oswin models. A sigmoidal behaviour (type II) was observed.Equilibrium moisture content increased directly with water activity.There were significant (P<0.05) differences between the sorption behaviour of white and yellow gari samples. The equilibrium moisture content decreased with an increase in temperature at constant water activity. The goodness fit of the models was determined using four statistical parameters: coefficient of determination (r²), root mean square error (RMSE), percentage mean relative deviation modulus (%p), and chi square (x²). BET and OSWIN models appeared suitable for the water activity ranges. In this study, EBW and EBY gari samples exhibited good shelf stability.

Comparative Analysis of Nutritional, Physicochemical, Antioxidant, and Microbial Properties of Cattle, Sheep and Goat Milk

2025-04-07T08:44:42+03:00

This study examined the nutritional, physicochemical, antioxidant, and microbiological characteristics of milk from cattle, sheep, and goats at the Federal University Wukari Teaching and Research Farm in Taraba State, Nigeria. Five healthy animals of each species were used to obtain milk samples. Significant variations in the nutritional composition were found in the study; the highest total protein level (6.02%) was found in sheep milk, which was followed by goat milk (4.38%) and cattle milk (3.54%). Goat milk had the greatest levels of both fat (4.78%) and lactose (4.88%). Cattle milk had the highest solid non-fat (SNF) percentage (8.354%) and total solid content (17.194%), according to the physicochemical examination. Cattle and goat milk had higher pH values (6.79 and 6.50, respectively) than sheep milk (5.52). Sheep milk had a slightly higher refractive index (1.355) than goat and cattle milk. According to antioxidant characteristics, goat milk had the highest superoxide dismutase activity (4.158 IU/L), while cattle milk had the highest amounts of glutathione peroxidase (270.84 IU/L) and catalase (0.846 IU/L). Goat milk exhibits a distinct advantage in superoxide dismutase activity. Furthermore, total coliforms were most common in cattle milk (37.93 x 10² CFU/100 ml), but E. coli levels were greatest in sheep milk (1.40 CFU/100 ml). To sum up, every variety of milk has distinct microbiological, antioxidant, and nutritional characteristics. These results illustrate the unique benefits of each milk type depending on desired nutritional, safety, and functional qualities, offering insightful information to dairy producers, consumers, and health experts.

Assessment Climate Change Adaptation Strategies on Maize Production in Selected States, in South-West, Nigeria

2025-01-16T09:28:12+03:00

First Record of Gordius spp. (Nematomorpha: Gordiidae) in Southwestern Iran: Morphology, Behavioral Patterns, and Ecological Implications

2025-03-12T13:08:55+03:00

The first confirmed recording of the gordiid hairworm (Nematomorpha: Gordiidae), belonging to the genus Gordius, is reported from Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province in southwestern Iran. A single adult female specimen was found and then examined using light microscope methods. The features identified, including smooth cuticle, cylindrical shape, bilateral symmetry, and absence of posterior lobes, confirmed its membership to the genus Gordius. The geographical range of Nematomorpha has extended to the Middle East as per previous reports. The current paper provides ecological information, distinguishing features, and comparative assessment with similar studies from Türkiye and Europe. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) is recommended in future studies to determine the species accurately and reveal previously unknown diversity within the phylum.

The The Effects of Storage Methods on the Emergence, Growth, and Yield of Cocoyam [Xanthosoma sagittifolium (L.) Schotts]

2025-02-27T09:10:37+03:00

Cocoyam (Xanthosoma sagittifolium), known as tannia, is cultivated for fresh leaves and cormels by resource-limited farmers in tropical regions. However, it is not fully utilised to enhance food security for the growing population. One of the key challenges in its production is the lack of sufficient planting material, largely due to limited information on effective storage methods that ensure adequate planting material for establishing the crop in the following season. This study aimed to evaluate weight loss and storage efficiency under common storage conditions and determine the field performances of the stored corms. Freshly harvested corms (T1), corms stored under shade (T2), corms stored in pits (T3) and corms stored on raised platforms (T4) were assessed for weight loss and storage efficacy. In a field experiment, the stored corms were planted and evaluated for emergence, growth and yield differences using a randomised complete block design with three replicates. Weight loss in storage and storage efficiency ranged from 11.42 (T3) to 35.62% (T4) and 60.0 (T4) to 84.0% (T2), respectively, with significant differences observed among the storage conditions. The T4 had a significantly lower emergence rate than other storage conditions. Across the observation periods, cocoyam height and stem diameter were similar for the storage conditions but lowest in T4. The cormel yield obtained from T1 was significantly higher than T4 but had 18.28 and 31.43% higher yields than the yields observed for T2 and T3, respectively. The corms stored under shade conditions were suggested for preserving tannia corms meant for planting.

Review of GIS Analysis used in Poultry Livestock Disease Prevention in USA

2025-03-12T09:20:58+03:00

Evaluation of Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Accessions for Agronomic and Weed-Suppressive Potentials in the Rainforest-Savannah Transition Agroecology of Nigeria

2025-03-24T15:02:53+03:00

Synergistic Effects of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae and Inulin on Growth Performance of Broilers

2025-03-17T14:46:11+03:00

Saccharomyces cerevisiae has been proven to enhance broiler performance by improving nutrient utilization, modulating gut microbiota composition and strengthening immune response. Inulin, a natural fiber derived from plants, has also been shown to promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, leading to improved gut health and overall performance in broilers. This study aimed to evaluate the combined effect of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and inulin on the growth performance of broilers, to identify an effective supplementation strategy for broiler production. One hundred and twenty-eight Cobb-500 broilers were randomly distributed to four treatments (control (T0) - basal diet; T1 - 0.5% Saccharomyces cerevisiae (yeast); T2 - 0.5% inulin; and T3 - 0.5% Saccharomyces cerevisiae + 0.5% inulin. Treatments were replicated four times and arranged in two blocks with house side as the blocking factor. Data on feed intake, water intake and live body weight were collected and analyzed in SAS ver. 9.4. Broilers fed combined inulin and yeast had higher (p < 0.05) live body weight, weight gain, and feed conversion efficiency. Broilers fed yeast-only and those fed a basal diet had the lowest (p < 0.05) live body weight, weight gain and feed conversion efficiency. These findings highlight the potential benefits of synbiotic supplementation in broiler diets to improve feed efficiency, gut microbiota balance, and growth performance, suggesting strong potential as sustainable alternatives to antibiotic growth promoters in broiler production. The inulin used in this study was extracted from Jerusalem artichoke and the one extracted from chicory roots may provide better results.

Feeding and management of heat stress in livestock: Knowledge, perceptions and attitude of livestock keepers in District Okara, Punjab, Pakistan

2025-05-09T21:05:54+03:00

The objective of this study was to evaluate the knowledge, perceptions and attitude (KAP) of livestock owners and keepers towards feeding and management of heat stress in animals. A total of 72 livestock owners and keepers were interviewed through open ended survey questionnaire in district Okara, Punjab, Pakistan. Snow ball sampling technique was adopted to select livestock owners and keepers. All of the participants in the study think the animals can suffer heat stress. Majority of the respondents identify heat stressed animal from rapid breathing. Majority of respondents have poor knowledge regarding emergency relief to heat stressed animal; they believe drinking water should never be offered promptly. Regarding giving bath to a heat stressed animal; majority of respondents in all categories do not agree. Majority respondents believe green fodder should be fed during hot hours whereas concentrate mix ration (CFM) should be fed during cooler hours of a day in summer. Majority of the respondents are unaware of the fact that animals should be given 24 hours fresh water availability rather they offer up to 3-4 times a day. The status of respondents KAP on feeding and management of heat stress in livestock is poor. Respondents were unaware of the importance of prompt cooling of heat stressed animals through fresh drinking water and bathing instead they offer local remedies that are harmful to overall health and welfare of animals. Majority of the respondents perceive green fodder as cool whereas CFM as hot source of energy.