Global Journal of Agricultural Innovation, Research & Development
The Global Journal of Agricultural Innovation, Research & Development (GJAIRD) is a peer-reviewed, international journal that provides a forum for the dissemination of cutting-edge research on agricultural innovation and development. The journal aims to bring together researchers, academics, and practitioners from diverse disciplines to promote interdisciplinary collaboration and the transfer of knowledge and technology. The scope of GJAIRD encompasses a wide range of topics related to agriculture, including agricultural biotechnology, agricultural mechanization, agricultural economics, food science and technology, climate-smart agriculture, and many more. The journal is dedicated to publishing high-quality research articles, review papers, and technical reports that contribute to the advancement of agricultural innovation and development. The goal of GJAIRD is to promote the development of sustainable agricultural systems that improve food security, reduce poverty, and enhance the environment.
All the published articles are licensed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial License (CC BY-NC 4.0) which permits unrestricted, non-commercial use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the work is properly cited.
First Record of the Broomrape Miner Phytomyza orobanchia (Diptera: Agromyzidae) in Morocco: Field Infestation Levels, Biological Control Potential Against Orobanche crenata, and Low Parasitoid Pressure
Field surveys conducted from January to April 2026 in the Zemamra area (Morocco) assessed the infestation of legume fields by the holoparasitic plant Orobanche crenata Forssk and its associated insect fauna. Twelve lentil, chickpea, and faba bean fields were surveyed. Severe infestations of broomrape were recorded across all sites. Parasitism by the agromyzid fly Phytomyza orobanchia Kaltenbach (Diptera: Agromyzidae) was consistently observed on broomrape plants, affecting tubercles, shoots, and floral structures. A single broomrape plant contained 1 to 10 larvae, with infestation levels reaching 80–90% of population. Larval mining resulted in tissue destruction, reduced seed production, and weakening or death of host shoots. Developmental stages, including larvae and pupae, were recorded, confirming successful completion of the insect life cycle under both field and laboratory conditions. Population dynamics showed low abundance in February, followed by a steady increase and a peak in early April, consistent with patterns reported in Mediterranean environments. This study represents the first record of P. orobanchia in Morocco, extending its known distribution in North Africa. Although the species is widely distributed and reported on more than 20 Orobanche species worldwide, its occurrence in Moroccan agroecosystems had not previously been documented. Natural parasitism by Tetrastichus phytomyzae Kost. (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) was low (<4%), indicating limited regulation of fly populations by parasitoids under field conditions. Overall, the results highlight the potential of P. orobanchia as a promising biological control agent of broomrape in Morocco, particularly if its early establishment is enhanced before peak parasitoid activity.
Crenate broomrape, Host-specific herbivore, Biological control agent, North African agroecosystem, Integrated weed management (IWM).
Copyright (c) 2026 Mohamed El-Aalaoui, Mohamed Sbaghi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Rhizobacteria as a Potential Microbial Agents for Suppression of Emerging Nematode Diseases in Plants
The increasing limitations and risks associated with synthetic nematicides have intensified interest in rhizobacteria as sustainable alternatives for managing plant-parasitic nematodes. This review synthesizes current advances in understanding rhizobacteria-plant-nematode interactions with a specific focus on mechanistic insights rather than descriptive compilation. It highlights key genera such as Bacillus, Pseudomonas, and Streptomyces, which suppress nematodes through multiple mechanisms including production of nematicidal metabolites, modulation of root exudates, competition in the rhizosphere, and induction of systemic resistance via jasmonic acid and salicylic acid signaling pathways. Particular emphasis is placed on emerging concepts such as rhizobacteria-mediated priming, signaling cross-talk, and interference with nematode host recognition. The review also critically examines current limitations, including inconsistent field performance, gaps in mechanistic understanding, and challenges in formulation and large-scale application. By integrating recent findings and identifying key knowledge gaps, this work provides a clearer conceptual framework and outlines future research directions for developing effective rhizobacteria-based strategies for sustainable nematode management.
Rhizobacteria, Biological control, Sustainable agriculture, Plant-parasitic nematodes.
Copyright (c) 2026 M. Devindrappa, R. Umamaheswari, N.R. Prassanakumar, G. Santhosh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Spatiotemporal Dynamics and Climate Drivers of Major Maize Insect Pests Across Agroecological Zones in Morocco
Maize (Zea mays L.) in Morocco faces diverse insect pests, yet their seasonal patterns and climatic responses remain unclear; weekly surveys (2023–2025, weeks 18–30) were conducted in Zemamra, Mettouh, and Oulad Saïd zones using multiple trapping methods. Eight major pests were monitored: Sesamia nonagrioides, Ostrinia nubilalis, Agrotis segetum, Rhopalosiphum padi, Sitobion avenae, Oscinella frit, Agriotes lineatus, and Diabrotica virgifera virgifera. Pest composition was consistent, with R. padi (15.8–18.4%), S. avenae (14.3–16.5%), and S. nonagrioides (15.4–17.3%) dominating, while O. frit was least abundant (6.7–7.2%). Abundance consistently peaked during weeks 20–21 across all years and sites, with the highest levels recorded in Zemamra (342.5–357.3), followed by Mettouh (336.9–352.8) and Oulad Saïd (298.4–309.0). Diversity indices remained stable (Shannon–Wiener (H′) ~1.4–1.6; Margalef (D) ~0.9–1.0; Pielou’s (J) indices ~0.8) with little variation across sites or years. Aphids correlated positively with humidity (R. padi Spearman’s coefficient (r) = 0.877; S. avenae r = 0.851) and rainfall (R. padi r = 0.924; S. avenae r = 0.958); other pests showed weak, non-significant climatic associations. Moroccan maize pests peak in late May, with aphids rising under humid, rainy conditions, emphasizing the importance of climate-based pest management strategies.
Maize insect pests, Agroecological zones, Climate–pest interactions, Seasonal population dynamics, Integrated pest management (IPM).
The Effects of Mycorrhiza Application and Reduced Phosphorus Fertilization on Plant Growth, Nutrient Uptake, and Yield in Greenhouse Pepper Cultivation
Following the Industrial Revolution and the resulting growth in the world’s population, maximising agricultural production yields has become a fundamental objective. Consequently, the use of chemical fertilisers has become widespread. However, the long-term intensive use of these inputs has led to a decline in soil fertility and salinisation, as well as the deterioration of soil health. This has prompted the development of alternative approaches to sustainable agricultural practices. One such approach is the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), a type of biological fertiliser that establishes a symbiotic relationship with plant roots. This enhances plant growth, increases the root surface area, and improves nutrient uptake and resistance to abiotic stress conditions. In greenhouses in particular, eliminating beneficial microorganisms through the use of high inputs and soil disinfection processes results in the disappearance of mycorrhizal populations. This increases dependence on chemical fertilisers for greenhouse cultivation. In this study, two different AMFs (Rhizophagus clarus and Funneliformis caledonius) were applied in three different ways (once during seed sowing, once during seedling stage, and twice during seed sowing and seedling stage) to pepper cultivation in steam-sterilized soil where natural AMFs were eliminated. The effects of these applications on the development, yield, and nutrition of the pepper plant were investigated. In conclusion, the addition of AMF to the soil in greenhouses positively affected plant growth, nutrient uptake, and yield. Yield increased by 16% in single-application treatments compared to the control, while it increased by 29% in two-application treatments. Similar results were obtained for plant growth and nutrition. The use of mycorrhizae in greenhouse vegetable cultivation also guarantees less chemical use, a cleaner environment, and higher-quality products.
Biofertilizers, Capsicum annuum, Greenhouse agriculture, Phosphorus use efficiency, Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF).
Copyright (c) 2026 Özlem Altuntaş, Lale Ersoy https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Efficiency Differential of Adopters and Non-adopters of Improved Technologies among Plantain Farmers in South-South, Nigeria
The study investigated efficiency differential of adopters and non-adopters of improved technologies among plantain farmers in South-South, Nigeria. The objectives of the study were to analyze production factors of adopters and non- adopters’, measure productive efficiencies of adopters and non-adopters, and evaluate the factors affecting the adoptive behaviour of farmers in the study area. Multi stage sampling technique was used to collect data from 280 plantain farmers. Descriptive statistics, stochastic frontier production/cost function models and logistic regression model were used for analysis. The results showed that adopter obtained higher yield than the non-adopters (p<0.01). Significant difference existed between adopters and non-adopters in terms of farm size, labour, inorganic fertilizers, pesticides, income, education, credit status and extension contacts. The mean technical efficiency of the famers was 0.66 and 0.52 for adopters and non-adopters respectively which differs significantly (p<0.01). The mean allocative efficiency was 0.57 and 0.44 for adopters and non-adopters respectively, the mean economic efficiency was 0.52 and 0.42 for adopters and non-adopters respectively. Farming experience, family size, adoption index, education, extension contacts, and membership of association were significant factors affecting adoptive choice of the farmers.The study recommended increased use of technologies, more extension contacts, and increased farmers’ membership of association.
Plantain farmer, Adoptive behavior, Efficiency differential, Productive efficiencies, Improved technologies.
Copyright (c) 2026 Samuel P. Jimmy, Julius E. Omeje, Mfonobong O. Effiong, Anthonia I. Achike, Chukwuemeka J. Arene https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The theoretical foundations of programmatic control of root crops, implemented on a daily time scale during a specific period of vegetation, have been developed. The programmatic control level is crucial, as it is through it that the set control goal is achieved for the adopted crop cultivation conditions. The sequence of technological actions generated by this control level is called a control program, or simply a program. Therefore, this type of control is programmatic. If crop cultivation conditions remained unchanged, the control programs obtained in advance would remain unchanged in real time. Therefore, changing conditions require adjustments to the control programs, which is a real-time task. The sequence of technological operations at this control level includes the application of mineral fertilizers and irrigation at pre-selected points in time. To date, results have been obtained on programmatic control only for crops with above-ground commercial biomass (grass, grain). A theoretical basis for root crops has not yet been developed. This article presents the results of programmatic control of the condition of root crops whose commercial mass is located in the soil. They were obtained using the example of sugar beet management.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ilya M. Mikhailenko, Valeriy N. Timoshin https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Recent Records of Breeding Stock Dove (Columba oenas) in Northern Bulgaria
In this study we present new data on the breeding distribution of the Stock Dove (Columba oenas) in Bulgaria, focusing on mountain habitats. In 2025, nineteen 10-km squares from the European Terrestrial Reference System 1989 were surveyed. The selection was based on previously identified suitable habitats. The present of the species and breeding category was established through point counts and photo cameras. The Stock Dove was confirmed as a breeder in four squares, but also identified as a probable breeder in another two squares falling outside of known species distribution. The results indicate a localized and patchily distributed breeding presence. The findings emphasize the need for systematic monitoring and targeted ecological studies to better understand the species’ breeding ecology, habitat use, and conservation status in the country.
Copyright (c) 2025 Gradimir V. Gruychev, Evlogi E. Angelov https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Avifaunal Biodiversity and Abundance in Organic and Conventional Rice Ecosystem in the Cauvery Deltaic Region of Tamil Nadu
Many studies have looked into the benefits of organic farming on soil ecology, but their effectiveness in biodiversity conservation, especially in bird communities in the organic ecosystem of Tamil Nadu, is less investigated. This research was conducted to determine the effects of organic farming methods on bird species, frequency and diversity in the Cauvery deltaic region of Tamil Nadu specifically, in rice ecosystems. In the Thaladi season of September and October 2022, bird monitoring was carried out in five pairs of organic and conventional rice habitats. This research documented a total of 726 birds, represented by 31 species, 19 Families and 11 Orders. Insectivorous birds were the most abundant species in organic rice ecosystems when compared to conventional ecosystems. This was observed across all three dietary guilds namely insectivore, granivore, and omnivore. A study on birds indicated that they had a higher value of species diversity in organic ecosystems (H = 3.06 Shannon-Weiner Diversity Index, R = 31 Species richness, J = 0.89 Evenness). In contrast, species diversity in conventional ecosystems was lower (H = 2.80, J = 0.87 and r = 25). This research has empirically demonstrated the advantages of organic farming, particularly in the Cauvery Deltaic region's organic rice habitat. It also provides quantifiable evidence that clearly shows its effectiveness in increasing the number of avian insectivores.
Copyright (c) 2025 Dhandayuthapani Udhaya Nandhini, Sivaprakasam Jidhu Vaishnavi, Subramanian Venkatesan https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Molecular Identification of Some African and Asian Tephritid Fruit Flies (Diptera) Using Mitochondrial Cytochrome Oxidase 1
Fruit flies of the family Tephritidae are among the most economically significant pests of horticultural crops worldwide, causing substantial losses in fruit production and trade. Accurate identification of species is crucial for effective pest management, quarantine, and biosecurity programs. In this study, mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (CO1) sequences were used to identify 15 fruit fly species from three genera (Bactrocera, Ceratitis, and Dacus). Complete DNA and amino acid sequences were determined, and phylogenetic relationships were assessed using sequences from both African and Asian populations. The CO1 marker proved effective for precise species identification and phylogenetic analysis, providing a valuable tool for both quarantine inspections and population genetics studies. This study provides the first molecular characterization of economically important fruit flies species from Sudan including some of Bactrocera species using mitochondrial COI gene sequencing. Previous work in the region focused mainly on morphological identification, which can be unreliable due to overlapping features among closely related species. The inclusion of molecular tools in this research enhances diagnostic precision, supports early detection of invasive fruit flies, and strengthens the foundation for integrated pest management (IPM) programs in tropical Africa. The generated COI sequence data will serve as a reference for future phylogenetic and biogeographical analyses of tephritid flies.
Copyright (c) 2025 Mohammed E.E. Mahmoud, Nur A.B. Adam, Sumaia M.A. Abukashwa, Mohamed A.O. Kambal, Alia A. Rizki, Samira A. Mohamed, Sunday Ekesi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
On-farm Pre-extension Demonstration of Newly Released Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) Technology with Proper Agronomic Practices in Gamo and Konso Zones of Southern Ethiopia
Pigeon pea is widely cultivated by Ethiopian farmers, but its production remains low despite suitable conditions. This is partly due to inadequate demonstration of new pigeon pea varieties with proper agronomic practices. To address this, Arba Minch Agricultural Research Center released a new variety, Ashenafi, which showed promise in adaptation trials. However, its farmer preference and socio-economic benefits were not assessed. Therefore, a pre-extension demonstration of Ashenafi and a local check was conducted in 2024 at Karat Zuria and Boreda districts to improve pigeon pea production. The demonstration covered 20 farmers’ fields and 2 Farmers Training Centers, with 10m x 50m plots for each variety, using a spacing of 1.2m between rows and 0.5m between plants, a seed rate of 3 kg/ha, and a fertilizer rate of 100 kg/ha NPS. Grain yield data and farmer preferences were collected and analyzed. Ashenafi yielded 1,860 kg/ha compared to the local variety's 1,065 kg/ha at Karat Zuria, and 1,785 kg/ha compared to 890 kg/ha at Boreda. Results at the Farmers Training Center were similar. The significant yield gap of 787 kg/ha suggests a need to encourage adoption of the new variety. Ashenafi proved more profitable and was preferred by farmers for its earliness, quick branch emergence, seed size, grain yield, and pod number. Thus, Ashenafi is recommended for wider production with proper agronomic practices.
Copyright (c) 2024 Lakamo L. Lemma, Abebaw B. Wada, Melese E. Bune https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Chlorophyll based Downy Mildew Analysis in Cucumber using Deep Learning
Cucumber is one of the major crops in Indian agrarian society, and it is affected by various diseases such as Downy Mildew. Monitoring the crop field's condition might help evade the disease, which is costly and time-consuming. Therefore, an economically intelligent farming system requires for disease monitoring. The grading of the disease can be recognized depending on the distribution of chlorophyll content in a leaf. However, previous grading techniques lead to an erroneous framework due to the inequitable statistics of real-time images' healthy and unhealthy pixel ordination. Hence, an optimized Deep Learning (DL) model is proposed according to the grading of the disease. The proposed DL model provides a training accuracy of 94.82% and a validation accuracy of 84.15%. The model also tested over 300 leaves with different grades of diseases captured randomly in an uncontrolled environment, and was found to be 90% accurate, compared to over 69% by visual identification of experts. A decision support system built on the proposed technology's instantaneous image capture and prediction capabilities is a huge help to farmers and agriculturists in understanding the state of the field and responding to such circumstances.
Copyright (c) 2025 Shubhajyoti Das, Subhranil Mustafi, Sanket Dan, Satyendra N. Mandal, Parimal Sinha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Brief History, Design Innovations, Sustainability, and the Future Prospects of Aquaponics: A Review
The rising demand for food due to the increasing population is one of the world's major issues. It is aggravated by the decreasing area for food production due to land conversion and the effects of climate change that threaten food security. Thus, alternative methods for producing more food efficiently and sustainably have been the focus recently. Aquaponics is a promising food production technology that combines fish and plants within a single system. Among the existing techniques, the recirculating aquaponics system, or RAS, is one of the most sophisticated land-based aquaculture production systems, integrating hydroponics to promote the reuse and recycling of nutrient-rich water while maintaining high-quality fish and plants. Aquaponics originated from traditional practices that utilized abundant natural resources. Modern developments have evolved from small, modular systems to medium- and large-scale, commercial designs, incorporating automation and the Internet of Things (IoT) to enhance efficiency and precision. This paper reviews the evolution of aquaponics, highlighting existing designs, innovations, and performance. Additionally, it explores future work in aquaponics aimed at improving profitability and sustainability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Christopher S. Pascual, Steven G. Hall https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The Role of Social Networks in Community Development among Smallholder Farmers in Western Kenya
Developing rural communities remains a critical challenge in developing countries, where smallholder agriculture is the main source of rural livelihood, particularly in strengthening food security. However, reliance on agriculture alone has often failed to provide the requisite economic resources to fortify rural economies. This study introduces a novel perspective by exploring alternative social network factors beyond agriculture that contribute to community development in Western Kenya. Utilizing a mixed-methods sequential design, a survey questionnaire was administered to a random sample of 245 rural households engaged in both on- and off-farm activities, followed by four purposively selected focus group discussions (FGDs) comprising 28 participants. A binary logistic regression model was employed to analyze quantitative data, identifying age (p = .07), education (p = .10), and off-farm income (p = .08) as significant predictors of community development. The qualitative phase employed thematic analysis of FGDs to capture subjective farmer perspectives on alternative development sources. Findings reveal that engagement in off-farm activities, often overlooked in rural development discourse, plays a pivotal role in fostering community growth. This dual-method approach provides comprehensive insights into the socio-demographic drivers of development, emphasizing the interplay between quantitative metrics and qualitative narratives. The study provides an integrative analysis of the role of social networks and off-farm activities as catalysts innovates by offering new pathways for policy interventions that sustainable community growth in rural agricultural communities.
Copyright (c) 2025 Newton M. Nyairo, Sierra Garrett, Joshua O. Minai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Effects of Prototype Hydroxylated Water Treatment on Sanitizing Wastewater Spiked with Bacillus subtilis Spores
A wastewater treatment study evaluated the effects of a prototype hydroxylated water treatment on water spiked with Bacillus subtilis spores. The study objectives were to determine the impact of water exposure time and humic acid water treatments on spore inactivation rates. This factorial study included seven water sample collection times and three humic acid concentrations with 21 water treatments. The prototype hydroxylated water treatment system reduced viable B. subtilis spore by 2.47 log10 after a 12-minute exposure without any quenching agents in the water. The average B. subtilis spore concentration for the control water samples was 4.86 x 105 CFU/ml. Adding humic acid at 0.5% (v/v) as a quenching agent reduced spore inactivation from 3 to 1 log10. Also, adding humic acid as a quenching agent reduced oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) from 600 to about 250 mV. Wastewater treatments based on hydroxylated water technologies can sanitize bio-contaminated water if the water is first filtered to remove most organic contaminants. Alternatively, hydroxylated water treatments should use extended water exposure times, beyond 12 minutes, to minimize the quenching effects of the organic matter in wastewater.
Copyright (c) 2024 Craig L. Ramsey https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Distribution and Density of Common Woodpigeon (Columba palumbus) in Central Northern Bulgaria
The breeding density of the Woodpigeon was determined in square LH75 in the period from March to May 2023. For this purpose, a point counting method was used, and in addition, some characteristics of the habitats were taken into account. The breeding density of Woodpigeon in the present study was 16.42, 12.75 and 14.44 pairs/100ha, in March, April and May 2023 year, respectively. Breeding density decreases from March to May. Anova analysis showed statistically significant differences in the mean number of song pigeons by habitat and cropland types (F=8.11, p=0.005). The number of song Woodpigeons was significantly greater in open habitats with single large trees or small groups of large trees among grassland and meadows than in other breeding habitat types. Their number is relatively high in Silver lime forests, coniferous plantations, and in the fringe strip of all forest habitats. The number of song pigeons is also relatively high in cases where we have a lack of arable land in the fixed radius or in the presence of wheat. Their number in the fixed radius increased with increasing average tree height. The number of singing pigeons is positively correlated with tree height (R=0.49, F=2.132, p<0.0001). The latest data on the breeding density of the Woodpigeon are from the end of the last century in Bulgaria. This study presents first results on the breeding distribution and density of the species in an information-poor area.
Copyright (c) 2024 Tsvetomira R. Todorova, Gradimir V. Gruychev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Evaluation and Promotion of Multipurpose Tree Planting in Selected Agroforestry Systems: The Case of Smallholder Farmers in Bore District, Southern Ethiopia
The study was conducted in the Bore district of Guji zone, Southern Ethiopia. The objective of the study was to evaluate and promote multipurpose tree planting under smallholder farmers' of selected agroforestry systems. In this study, four multipurpose trees such as Acacia saligna, Chamaecytisus palmensis, Grevilia robusta, and Pinus patula were evaluated and promoted in home gardens, on farms, and boundary planting agroforestry systems. The growth performance results of the multipurpose trees in selected agroforestry systems showed that the survival rate of the trees was higher in home gardens followed by on-farm and boundary planting agroforestry systems. Moreover, the highest diameter at breast height and tree height growth performances were also recorded in home gardens, on farms, and boundary planting agroforestry systems respectively. Smallholder farmers used different management practices for multipurpose trees planted in selected agroforestry systems. Accordingly, farmers used pruning, hoeing, animal dung, weeding, and fencing management practices for better growth performance of the trees and to minimize the shade effect of the trees on understorey crops. Farmers' preferences for the evaluated and promoted multipurpose trees showed that Pinus patula, Grevilia robusta, Chamaecytisus palmensis, and Acacia saligna were ranked 1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 4th respectively. The feedback from farmers showed that they were willing to plant different multipurpose trees if they could be encouraged and supported with planting materials and technical support. Therefore, government and non-government organizations could be involved in developing agroforestry systems, by providing good planting materials and supporting smallholder farmers' through research and strong extension services.
Copyright (c) 2024 Aschalew Emire, Sintayo Demise , Temesgen Giri https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Pre-Extension Demonstration of Shiro Type Field Pea Technologies in the Highlands of Guji Zone, Oromia Regional State, Ethiopia
For improvement of field pea production, agricultural research centers have released many varieties. However, productivity of field pea is low due to insufficient demonstration of released and adapted varieties at farmers’ level. Hence, demonstration of released and improved varieties is the key approval for large scale production of field pea. Therefore, this experiment was exhibited at three highlands to estimate profitability and evaluate the yield of shiro kind field pea varieties. The Bilalo variety was demonstrated with local varieties by 12 farmers during the year 2022. Yield and costs of production were collected. The data was analyzed through cost benefit analysis and descriptive statistics. The result indicated that the Bilalo variety gave a better yield (25.92 Qt/ha) compared to the local variety (18.33 Qt/ha). Cost benefit analysis indicated that the Bilalo variety gave better returns (108672 ETB/ha) compared to the local variety (54022 ETB/ha). Farmers prefer the Bilalo variety because it provides a higher harvest, is more disease tolerant and has high market value over the local variety. The use of the improved shiro field pea variety is significant for yield increment and profit growth. Thus, the Bilalo variety should be used for shiro type field pea production in highland areas. Additional research is desirable to promote the Bilalo variety through scaling up in the highland and similar agro-ecologies of the Guji zone.
Copyright (c) 2023 Basha Kebede, Tekle Bobo, Dembi Korji https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
New Breeding Localities of Stock Pigeon (Columba oenas Linnaeus, 1758) in Bulgaria: Do Game Feeding Grounds Contribute to Increasing Distribution of the Species?
Between 2020-2023, seven UTM squares were visited in Balkan Mountain and Sarnena Sredna Gora Mountain. Five new localities of Stock Pigeon with a certain breeding category were reported. In three of them, the birds regularly visited feeding grounds for big game. In two of the localities, the breeding category was determined as confirmed breeding, and in the remaining three was probable breeding. In the present study, food complexes in some of the squares provided the seed supply at the beginning of the breeding season, and croplands, pastures, and meadows provided food resources during the fledging period, this is also the most likely reason for the increase in the breeding distribution of the species in the studied area.
Copyright (c) 2023 Gradimir V. Gruychev https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Economic Efficiency of Applying Biological Growth Regulators for Growing Sunflower in the Zone of Steppe Soils
In the conditions of climate change, the selection and adjustment of crop cultivation systems in the moisture deficit zone and the management of risky agriculture to ensure the profitability of production remain an urgent issues. In particular, the Steppe of Ukraine is a zone of increased risk for agricultural production, which is associated with difficult climatic conditions characterized by droughts and low rainfall. An effective measure to ensure stable harvests is the use of growth-regulating biological preparations. Therefore, the purpose of the research was to establish the regularities of the influence of growth-regulating biological preparations on the formation of productivity and the economic efficiency of sunflower cultivation in the zone of risky agriculture. The study was conducted in 2021–2022 in the Mykolaiv region of Ukraine. A three-factor field experiment was set up to study the influence of various biological preparations (Helafit Combi, Organic Balance, and Biocomplex-BTU) and plant stand density (30, 40, and 50 thousand pcs/ha) on the productivity of sunflower hybrids Vyrii, Yarylo, Blysk, Yaskravyi, and Epikur. It was found that the hybrids Yarylo, Epikur, and Yaskravyi had considerably lower levels of productivity. However, foliar fertilization had a positive effect and contributed to an increase in their productivity. A low level of productivity in 2022 (1.51 t/ha) was observed in the hybrid Epikur under the plant density of 30 thousand pcs/ha. The results of the field experiments allowed establishing that foliar fertilization with different biological preparations is an efficient and effective method for improving plant growth conditions, and can increase the level of agrocenosis genetic potential realization. It was found that the hybrid Vyrii with a seeding rate of 40 thousand pcs/ha and plant treatment with the biological preparation Helafit Combi is the most economically efficient hybrid, with a profitability of 25.59%, and a net profit of $127.20 per ha.
Copyright (c) 2023 Yevhenii Domaratskiy, Larysa Potravka, Vitalii Pichura https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Investigating the Effect of Static Magnetic Field and Magnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticle on Enzymatic Antioxidant Defense in Dracocephalum polychaetum Cell Suspension Culture
This study was conducted to investigate the effect of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (MNP) and static magnetic field (SMF) on the activity of antioxidant enzymes in the cell suspension culture of Dracocephalum polychaetum (Lamiaceae family). The treatment procedure was done by cultivating the cells either with 100 ppm MNP, SMFs, or simultaneous exposure to both MNP and SMFs. The SMF at 30 mT was uniformly applied to the cells either for 3 or 4 days with 3 hours per day or 5 hours per day intervals, respectively. The highest activity of polyphenol oxidase (PPO), phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL), catalase (CAT), malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and electrical conductivity (EC) were observed under the elicitation of the cells with simultaneous exposure to both MNP and SMFs, but the highest amount of FRAP value was observed under the elicitation of the sample with the MNP treatment. Also, the results of this study showed that the greatest activity of peroxidase (POX) was observed under SMF and MNP treatments. In general, SMF and MNP treatments caused various changes in cell structure and metabolism by inducing oxidative stress and having a direct effect on the membrane. The cell activated its enzymatic antioxidant defense system in response to these treatments, which caused changes in its activity and amount compared to the control cell.
Copyright (c) 2023 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Priming Bean Seedlings to Boost Natural Plant Defenses Against Common Bacterial Wilt: Leaf Architecture, Leaf area, Foliage Water Content, and Plant Biomass Results (Part 3)
This greenhouse study evaluated the effects of two chemicals for priming kidney bean seedlings against bacterial wilt disease (Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. Flaccumfaciens) (CFF). The premise of this study was that the oxidant properties of chlorine dioxide would mimic the signaling properties of radical oxygen species thereby initiating a cascade of molecular plant defenses. The factorial study included two levels for the foliar chlorine dioxide treatment, two levels for the bacterial wilt inoculation treatment, and two optional treatments. The biomass variables included oven dry total plant biomass, oven dry fruit biomass, and oven dry leaf biomass. Also, foliage and total plant water content data was collected, as well as total leaf area. Specific leaf area (SLA) was estimated from the leaf area and biomass data. The primers had equivalent leaf area, plant and fruit biomass as the water control for the CFF wilt inoculated plants. The EB 400 mg/l primer reduced SLA for the CFF inoculated plants. Both EB formulations increased aboveground water content in the CFF wilt inoculated plants. Multivariate tables revealed several significant correlations among leaf architecture, plant tissue water content, and biomass growth parameters for the EB primers and the water control treatment for the two CFF wilt treatments. Re-allocation of plant resources from plant growth to plant defenses due to chemical primers were estimated and discussed to determine the tradeoffs between plant yield and enhanced plant defenses. The three articles in this study show that chlorine dioxide primers can initiate a series of ROS and salicylic acid signals. This interplay of ROS signals and salicylic acid signals generated by the chlorine dioxide primers activates a long-term SAR response that protects plants against future pathogen attacks. In addition, interaction of the ROS and salicylic acid signals activates a suite of defense mechanisms that provide universal, multifaceted plant immunity that can be sustained across a crop season.
Copyright (c) 2023 Craig Ramsey, Vanessa M. Sandoval, Paul C. Freebury, Debra H. Newman, Greg Dooley, Leland J. Cseke, Steven E. Newman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Priming Bean Seedlings to Boost Natural Plant Defenses Against Common Bacterial Wilt: Gas Exchange, and Fluorescence Results (Part 2)
This greenhouse study evaluated the effects of two chemical primers for kidney bean seedlings against a bacterial wilt (Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. Flaccumfaciens) (CFF). The premise of this study was that the oxidant primers would mimic the signaling properties of radical oxygen species and initiate a cascade of molecular defenses. The factorial study included two levels for the foliar chlorine dioxide treatment, and two levels for the bacterial wilt inoculation treatment, plus two supplemental chemical treatments. The foliage response variables were gas exchange and fluorescence. There was a 36, 154, and 70% reduction in Pn, gs, and E, respectively, at 39 DAT when comparing the inoculated control to the non-inoculated control. The chlorine dioxide primers lowered leaf temperatures and leaf vapor pressure deficit in the CFF wilt inoculated plants. The chlorine dioxide primers improved gas exchange at 39 DAT when compared to the water treatments. Part 1 and 2 of this series conclude that the chlorine dioxide primers can activate a long-term, systemic acquired resistance (SAR) response in kidney bean plants infected with the CFF wilt. The Part 2 article also concludes that the EB treatments caused several inexplicable correlations among the gas exchange responses. A structured water premise was proposed as an explanation for the gas exchange anomalies due to the EB treatments. Intuitively, this study suggests that chlorine dioxide primers can initiate a series of ROS and salicylic acid signals that activate a suite of mechanisms that provide universal, multifaceted plant immunity that is sustained across a crop season.
Copyright (c) 2023 Craig L. Ramsey, Vanessa M. Sandoval, Paul C. Freebury, Debra H. Newman, Greg Dooley, Leland J. Cseke, Steven E. Newman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Priming Bean Seedlings to Boost Natural Plant Defenses Against Common Bacterial Wilt: Salicylic Acid Responses to Chemical Primers (Part 1)
This greenhouse study evaluated the effects of two chemical inducers for priming kidney bean seedlings against a bacterial wilt disease. This study's central premise was that chlorine dioxide's oxidant properties would mimic the signaling properties of radical oxygen species, thereby initiating a cascade of molecular plant defenses, including the synthesis of salicylic acid (SA). This signaling agent then initiates a cascade of pre-defense activities to provide a more rapid and robust natural defense against pathogen attacks. This factorial study included two levels for a foliar chlorine dioxide treatment and two for a bacterial wilt inoculation treatment. The two plant response variables were free and conjugated salicylic acid levels sampled in leaf tissue over two collection dates. Half of the 96 plants were inoculated with a bacterial culture that causes common bean wilt disease. Leaf tissue was harvested 17 to 32 h and 960 h after the wilt inoculation to determine the temporal dynamics of SA due to chemical treatments. Also, PCR tests were used to verify wilt presence in the inoculated plants. Inoculation of the wilt disease did not affect free SA when leaf tissue was sampled from 17 to 32 h. after wilt inoculation. However, chlorine dioxide applied at 400 mg/l and sampled at 20 h after inoculation resulted in a 15-fold increase in free SA over the control. Also, chlorine dioxide applied at 400 mg/l with leaf tissue sampled at 26 h after inoculation resulted in a 33-fold increase in conjugate SA levels compared to the control plants. Leaf tissue sampled at 960 h after the inoculation showed no free SA differences among the chemical treatments. However, the inoculated plant had a 15.9-fold increase in free SA compared to the non-inoculated plants. The priming effect on kidney bean seedlings using a single chlorine dioxide foliage application temporarily increased free and conjugate SA. The free and conjugate SA levels for the non-inoculated plants returned to baseline levels when sampled at 960 h. These results indicate that primed plants elevate SA up to several weeks with a slow decline back to baseline levels. Stem injection of the bacterial wilt bypassed the immunity mechanisms present in leaves, which significantly increased the wilt injury levels. Stem injection negated much of the foliar defenses, which overshadowed the priming effects of the chemical treatments on plant immunity and foliar defenses. The second leaf sampling on newly formed leaves reveals elevated SA levels in the inoculated plants but not in the non-inoculated plants.
Water Scarcity and Work Constraints in Semi-Arid Agricultural Regions: Current Challenges and Future Intervention Strategies
This paper assesses the sustainability of agricultural water management in two contrasting regions of Morocco and examines the economic and volumetric water productivity of various crops and livestock products. Considering examples from the oasis areas in the East (Drâa oases) to the sub-humid Saïss plain in the North, we find that sustainable water use for certain crops may not be achievable due to intensive groundwater depletion. Furthermore, we show that livestock economic water productivity is often limited compared to crops, which may hide complex interactions between crops and livestock. These interactions provide diverse and steady sources of income for farmers, ensuring the resilience of farms in the face of climate, biotic, and economic risks. Our findings also suggest that the labor requirements of farming activities are burdensome, particularly for family members. Given the significant constraints affecting the agricultural sector, it would be too risky to continue promoting it as the main driver of the country's economy. The challenges posed by climate change and the need for more environmentally friendly practices mean that simple solutions cannot be relied upon for the future.
Copyright (c) 2022 Mohamed Taher Sraïri, Lamya Assis , Khaoula Bentahar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Bioactivity and Prospects of Using Ethanolic Extracts of Some Plants and Bee Glue (Propolis) to Control the Greater Wax Moth Galleria mellonella (L) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae)
The greater wax moth (Galleria mellonella) is one of the most important pests of stored or unattended combs that cause severe damage to bee broods, threatening the development of apiculture in various countries, especially Sudan. A laboratory experiment was conducted in the College of Agricultural Studies, Sudan University of Science and Technology, Shambat, Sudan, to explore the potency of ethanolic extract (EE) of different parts of three different plants and bee glue against the third larval instar of greater wax moth. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design and replicated five times. The percentage of mortality of GWM was recorded after 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours post-treatment. Analysis of the variance of the obtained data revealed significant differences regarding insecticidal effect between the EEs of the four test products and the control. The EE of Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Propolis, Nigella sativa, and Carum carvi have bioactivity action against the third instar larvae of GWM with an increased percentage of mortality according to the increase of concentration as well as elapse of time. Hence, the highest concentration (15%) caused 86.7%, 83.3%, 73.3 and 66.7% larval mortality after 96 hours for EE of leaves of E. camaldulensis, powder of bee glue (Propolis), seeds of N. sativa and seeds of C. carvi respectively. The results also clearly demonstrated that the EE of the powder of Propolis is significantly more toxic than E. camaldulensis, N. sativa, and C. carvi, where the LC50 values were 3.1% for Propolis, 5.0% for E. camaldulensis, 7.0 % for N. sativa and 7.7% for C. carvi. The products mentioned above at the mentioned concentration are environmental friendly, safe for honeybees, economically feasible, and affordable for small beekeepers.
Copyright (c) 2022 Wegdan Abass Hussien Nor Algalil, Siefaldinn Mohammed Khaeir, AbdElbagi Elsayed Ali, Mohammed E. E. Mahmoud https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Temporal Variation Analysis of Rice Yield in the Jiangsu Province, China: Application of Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer Model
The accuracy of grain yield estimation is critical for national food security. Because of the comprehensive influence of spatial differentiation conditions, such as temperature, precipitation, soil, rice variety, and irrigation, yield estimation requires integrated modeling that is based on dynamic conditions. These dynamic conditions include geographical background, biological factors, and human impact. Most existing studies focus on the observation and analysis of external factors; only a few reports on yield simulations are coupled with nature, management, and crop growth mechanism. Our study incorporates the crop growth mechanism of rice, along with data of rice varieties, soil, meteorology, and field management, to determine the rice yield in Jiangsu province, China. In addition, we have used a decision support system for the agrotechnology transfer model, along with Coupled Model Intercomparison Project data and geographic information system technology. Our results showed that: (1) A calibrated variety genetic coefficient could simulate rice biomass value (flowering stage, maturity stage, and yield) reasonably. The values of NRMSE (Normalized Root Mean Square Error) between the simulated and measured values after parameter calibration are all less than 10%, the values of d(index of agreement) are all close to 1, the simulated value of yield is in good agreement with the measured value. (2) A linear correlation between the meteorological elements and yield was observed. The linear correlation had regional differences. Notably, an increase in precipitation was conducive to the increase in yield. Except at the Huaiyin site, the other sites showed that the temperature rise could potentially lead to reduced production. We found that an increase in solar radiation was unfavorable to the production of rice in the northern and western sites in the Jiangsu province, whereas it was conducive in the southern and eastern sites. (3) Our study predicted the rice yield from typical sites in the Jiangsu province from 2019 to 2060 in the wake of climate change while excluding the extreme effects of diseases, pests, typhoons, and floods. The order of average yield per unit area is as follows: Xinghua site (8212.76 kg/ha) > Huaiyin site (7912.70 kg/ha) > Gaoyou site (7440.98 kg/ha) > Gaochun site (7512.29 kg/ha) > Ganyu site (7460.88 kg/ha) > Yixing site (7167.00 kg/ha). Notably, the average yields from the Xinghua and Huaiyin sites were higher than that from the Jiangsu province (7617.77 kg/ha). The fluctuation of the yield per unit area at each site was generally consistent with the fluctuation in the overall yield, showing a downward trend and tends to be stable. The dispersion of yield per unit area indicates that Gaochun had the most stable yield per unit area followed by Xinghua, Ganyu, Yixing, Huaiyin, and Gaoyou. The yield per unit area of the Huaiyin and Gaoyou sites was unstable and portrayed the biggest fluctuations. Future studies need to focus on how to deal with spatial variation and carry out adaptive verification to make the simulation results applicable to more dimensions.
Copyright (c) 2022 Pan Yuqi, Jiang Penghui, Li Manchun, Chen Dengshuai https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Utilizing Chickpea Isolates as a Fortificant to Develop Protein-Dense Yogurt: A Review
Pulses and dairy products are recognized for their nutritional and functional benefits and are consumed in various forms. Yogurt is considered a source of good quality protein with anti-carcinogenic, hypocholesterolemic properties, and palliating effects on lactose intolerance. Similarly, chickpea is known for its high protein content, low glycemic index, and hypoglycaemic effects. These food ingredients cater to numerous advantages for human health and can address public health issues related to malnutrition or other nutritional deficiencies. With this background, the manuscript explores the possibility of employing chickpea isolates to fortify yogurt to improvise protein content along with sensory and physicochemical properties. So far, the literature has shown that protein extracts, when added to yogurt, result in gaining protein content and overall product quality. The yogurt market is growing, and consumers from different countries have expressed their willingness to purchase fortified yogurts to achieve optimum health. Therefore, developing a new combination of yogurt and chickpea isolates can provide a therapeutic alternative to enhance the nutritional status of the vulnerable population, viz. children, pregnant, lactating mothers, elderly, sportsperson, etc., when a judicious food intake is a must.
Copyright (c) 2022 Nikita Arya, Rajendra Kumar https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Molecular Characterization of Mutations in Anticarsia gemmatalis Cadherin Gene and their Relation to Bacillus thurigiensis Resistance
Anticarsia gemmatalis Hübner, 1818 is the main soybean defoliating pest in Brazil. The biological control of the species is done with products based on toxins produced by Bacillus thurigiensis (Bt), as bioinsecticides, or in transgenic plants. After activation by intestinal proteases, these toxins interact with receptors, especially cadherin, leading to death due to the formation of cellular pores. In recent years resistant populations have been identified in the laboratory, which can be a problem if the same patterns are found in crops, reducing their control effect. In this paper, we performed a comparative structural analysis of a mutation region for the gene of this receptor in A. gemmatalis, among resistant and susceptible strains treated with a toxin produced by Bt (Cry1Ac). The HaCad fragment of the cadherin gene was amplified by PCR, sequenced, and analyzed by bioinformatics tools. The PCR results were positive for resistant specimens but not for susceptible strains, suggesting the presence of a mutation in the resistant strain. In the sequenced fragments of the resistant insects, six haplotypes were found, and the originated amino acid sequences demonstrated the modification in four sites, which did not interfere with the three-dimensional shape of the protein. These data showed considerable variation taking into account the size of the fragment, even if they do not affect the final structure of the protein. The results allowed a better understanding of the mechanisms of resistance to Cry1Ac in the species, mainly in the involvement of cadherin in this process.
Copyright (c) 2022 Felipe Cordeiro Dias, Jaqueline Fernanda Dionísio, Daniel Ricardo Sosa-Gómez, Renata da Rosa https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Performance of Management Interventions to the Impacts of Prosopis juliflora in Arid and Semiarid Regions of the Middle Awash Valley, Ethiopia
The objective of this paper is to provide up-to-date empirical information on the expansion of P. juliflora, its environmental and livelihood impacts, and the performance of past and current management strategies in the Middle Awash Valley (MAV), Ethiopia. This study was based on data collected using focus group discussion, key informant interviews, and field observation. The results show that P. juliflora has expanded rapidly and invaded valuable grazing and croplands, and settlement areas. The rapid expansion of P. juliflora in the study area is attributed to climate change (increased temperature and declined rainfall), its ecological competition, spreading of seeds by wild animals and pastoral (mobile livestock) livelihood system, and recent occurrences of flood and drought-induced pasture scarcity that has forced livestock to eat more P. juliflora seed pods. Also, delays in the use of land cleared for farming activity have created good opportunities for Prosopis expansion. The perception and views of people on the benefits of P. juliflora and management options vary according to livelihood systems and stakeholder types (e.g., environmental managers and pastoralists). The attempted management strategies to eradicate P. juliflora (cutting, burning, and bulldozering or converting into economic utilization by making charcoal, fodder, and furniture) failed to achieve the intended outcomes. These management interventions failed due to many reasons. Some of these were the rapid rate of P. juliflora expansion triggered by the recurrent drought, severe scarcity of pasture that forced livestock to eat P. juliflora’s seed pods and travel into new areas, inadequate technologies to aid utilization and eradication, inability to collect sufficient quantity of pods to produce fodder for livestock, and absence of sufficient and satisfactory markets for the end-product (fodder). The results generally imply the need for urgent policy and management interventions. This study also highlights important issues that should be considered in introducing and implementing management strategies in the future.
Copyright (c) 2022 Mekonnen Adnew Degefu, Mohammed Assen, Roger Few, Mark Tebboth https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Field Response of Tephritid Fruit Flies (Diptera) to Fruit Juice of Some Botanicals and Implications for Bio-Rationale Pest Management in Sudan
Fruit flies belonging to the order Tephritidae are the most notorious pests that attack various fruit and vegetable species, causing severe economic losses. Guava orchards at Elfaki Hashim; North of Khartoum, (Khartoum State) and Elsawagi Elgenobia (Kassala State) in the middle and east of Sudan respectively were selected to assess the response of some Tephritids to water extracts (WE) of mango, guava, apple, cucumber, and ready-made juice of mango (Crystal®; Crystal Industrial Co. Ltd, Araak Group; crystal@araak.com) against Torula yeast (a standard fruit fly attractant) and water (control) baited in locally made traps. The trial was performed as Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated 3 times for 5 consecutive weeks at each site. Highly significant differences were recorded between attractants and the interaction between attractants and times (weeks) on trapping different species of fruit flies. Five species of fruit flies; Ceratitis capitata, Bactrocera dorsalis, Zeugodacus cucurbitae, Ceratitis cosyra, and Ceratitis quinaria, were found to respond positively to all tested materials at both sites. The greatest number of C. capitata flies was caught by traps equipped with ready-made Crystal® mango juice at the Elfaki Hashim site. The mean number of B. dorsalis attracted to the WEs of mango and guava at Elsawagi Elgenobia site was statistically identical to that of the same species lured to Torula yeast, 83.7, 70.3, and 111.5 flies /trap/week, respectively. Attractants extracted from botanicals are cost-free and easily prepared by farmers for mass trapping of fruit flies. More studies regarding active ingredients, doses, and the number of traps utilized per area should be considered.
Copyright (c) 2022 Mohammed E. E. Mahmoud, Mohamed A. Kambal, Sumaia M. Abukashwaa, Samira A. Mohammed, Sunday Ekesi https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0