World Journal of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences
World Journal of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences (WJAFS) is an international peer-reviewed, open access journal.
BREEDING CROPS FOR CLIMATE RESILIENCE: STRATEGIES AND CHALLENGES FOR HEAT, DROUGHT, AND FLOOD TOLERANCE
Climate change intensifies abiotic stresses heat, drought, and flooding jeopardizing global food security by disrupting crop physiology and causing substantial yield losses. While conventional breeding has developed resilient varieties like submergence-tolerant "Scuba" rice and drought-tolerant maize, its slow pace and limited genetic diversity are inadequate for rapidly changing climates. This review synthesizes advances in breeding for climate resilience, highlighting the integration of traditional methods with modern tools. Genomic selection accelerates genetic gain for complex traits, CRISPR enables precise editing of genes for root architecture and stomatal regulation, and speed breeding shortens generation cycles. High-throughput phenomics and artificial intelligence further enhance predictive breeding. However, critical gaps persist, including a lack of multi-stress field validation, underutilized crop wild relatives, and trade-offs between stress tolerance and yield. Future efforts must prioritize integrative strategies that combine genomics, phenomics, and participatory approaches to develop resilient crops capable of sustaining productivity under compound climatic stresses, ensuring food security in the 21st century.
Copyright (c) 2025 Hannah Boahemaa Addai; Conficious Nkrumah; Benjamin Yennuna Konyannik; Akwasi Agyapong Oppong-Agyemang; Gladys Alabilla; Gloria Naa Lamiley Lamptey; Prosper Ntow; James Nii Armah Okine; Paul Laari; Abdul-Wahab Rabiu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PERSICARIA ODORATA LEAF EXTRACT AS ALTERNATIVE TO ANTIBIOTICS: EFFECT ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE OF BROILER CHICKS
This research was carried out to investigate the effect of Persicaria odorata leaf extract on the growth performance of broiler chicks. Three hundred one day-old broiler chicks (Ross 308) were randomly distributed into five groups (6 replicates with 10 birds each). Birds were fed basal diet which was formulated according to the requirement of broilers. Broilers in group A was given basal diet without Persicaria odorata leaf extract, group B - Basal diet with 2 mL Persicaria odorata leaf extract per liter of water; group C - Basal diet with 4 mL Persicaria odorata leaf extract per liter of water; group D - Basal diet with 6 mL Persicaria odorata leaf extract per liter of water and group E - Basal diet with 8 mL Persicaria odorata leaf extract per liter of water. Animals had unrestricted access to feed and water throughout the 28 days experimental period. Qualitative analysis of Persicaria odorata leaf extract revealed the presence of flavonoids, phenolic compounds, tannins, alkaloids and saponins. Final body weight values which varied from 877.7 - 1050.9 g/b was higher in group D and E, intermediate in group B and C and lower in group A (p<0.05). Total feed consumption (1751.3 - 1780.9 g/b) were not significantly (p>0.05) affected by the treatment. Best feed conversion ratio was recorded among birds in group D and E relative to the other groups (p<0.05). In conclusion, feed broiler chicks Persicaria odorata leaf extract contains several essential phyto-components and could be included up to 8.0 mL/liter of water without causing any negative effect on their performance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Shittu; Abdulrahman; Anuore; Daniel Nnadozie; Olujimi Alagbe John https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
CLIMATE CHANGE IMPACTS ON INTERANNUAL (2022 AND 2023) COMPARISON OF WHEAT PRODUCTION UNDER ARID AGROCLIMATIC CONDITION OF PAKISTAN
In this study we assessed the impacts of climate change on the production of wheat in Layyah, Pakistan, for two seasons. The study was carried out with the view of evaluating the effects of temperature and rainfall on biomass production of the wheat crop and consequently on yield and quality of the produce. Weather conditions during the planting, growth, development and maturation period were used for the study. To conduct the experiment, a one-acre field was decided to be divided into four groups comprising two kanals each to avoid any mixing of groups and for proper and effective data collection and assessment. Some of the variables, which were analyzed include grain yield, 1000 grain weight, tiller count, spikelet number and straw yield. The experiment gave the following production; Grain yield of 1960 kg per acre and straw yield of 2840 kg per acre in 2022-2023 production season with improved yield records as compared to the previous year. Also, the yield achieved during the 2022 to 2023 periods was higher in tillers, spikelet’s, and a heavier grain content as compared to the 2021 to 2022 periods. According to the study, climate change has quite effect on the production of wheat in Layyah-Pakistan. The 2021-2022 crop growing season experienced La Nina and high temperatures, resulting in lower crop yields. However, during the 2022-2023 growing season, also a La Nina period, crops received sufficient water and optimum temperatures. This led to higher biomass production and increased grain production.
Copyright (c) 2024 Zain ul Sajjad; Muskan Naseem; Mujahid Iqbal; Ayesha Ghazanfar; Muhammad Zeeshan Hussain; Seerat Fatima; Rimsha Fayyaz; Ammara Umar; Zaka ur Rhman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
AN INTELLIGENT ANALYSIS MODEL OF FACTORS INFLUENCING INDUSTRIAL WASTEWATER TREATMENT EFFICIENCY BY INCORPORATING XGBOOST
In order to improve the accuracy and system understanding of industrial wastewater treatment efficiency prediction, an intelligent analysis model integrating XGBoost is constructed with a typical A2/O process wastewater treatment system as an example. 14 high-frequency operational variables are collected and processed in the system, and a multi-dimensional input system containing ratio features and time-difference features is designed. Combining the PCA dimensionality reduction and the temporal sliding window mechanism, the model effectively compresses the redundant information and enhances the expression ability of the dynamic features. The model stability and generalization ability are improved by the joint tuning strategy of grid search and Bayesian optimization. Comparison of the SVR, RF and MLP models shows that XGBoost is better in terms of prediction accuracy, robustness and feature interpretation, and SHAP analysis further clarifies the dominant roles of COD, NH??-N and other variables in the performance of the system, which verifies the potential and scalability of the constructed model in complex industrial scenarios. The constructed model is validated for its practical potential and extension value in complex industrial scenarios.
Industrial wastewater treatment efficiency
Copyright (c) 2024 Yang Xu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPACT OF WATER STRESS, CLIMATE CHANGE, AND ADAPTABILITY TRIALS ON YIELD AND QUALITY OF RAPESEED GENOTYPES ACROSS DIVERSE LOCATIONS
Yield and quality of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) are declining due to climate change and water stress which are major factors affecting the sustainability of agriculture across the world. These abiotic stresses severely affect yield and quality of the crop and thus call for the search for genotypes capable of performing well under different environmental conditions. Ways in which water stress and climate variability influenced general yield and quality of rapeseed genotypes, grown at several places, forming the basis of this research to establish genotypes that could help form the foundation of sustainable agriculture. To compare the genetic variability of the 10 rapeseed genotypes, a multi-location field trial with water at optimal irrigation and water stress levels was used. In the present study, RCBD with three replications was being used. Information on yield components, oil content, and on quality traits were recorded, and then analyzed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA) and and genotype by environment interaction (GEI). Multi-environment analysis showed that genotypes performed differently (p<0.05) for yield and quality components. Genotype G3 had the highest seed yield (2.8 t/ha) under normal irrigation and G7 retained the higher yield (2.2 t/ha) under water stress. Protein content ranged between 0.11 and 0.22 while the oil content was between 40.1 and 45.8 with G4 having stable level in both environments. Results from stress-DEA showed that, under stress, G7 and G4 were stable genotypes with broad adaptability. Consequently, the study raises a concern on the unpredicted genotypic reaction to water stress while urging the need for adaptation to climate dynamics in rapeseed production. The study offers useful information for breeders interested in developing planting materials that are resistant to climate change. The message underpinning it focuses on the promised further possibilities of genotype G7 as a perspective variety to cultivate in regions where water is a significant concern, as well as on keeping yields stable while maintaining quality at reasonable levels.
Genotype by Environment Interaction (GEI)
Copyright (c) 2025 Nadir Ali; Mukhtar Ahmad; Mansoor Ali; Muhammad Abdullah Khan; Saif Ullah; Muhammad Asim; Usama Ashiq; Salman Ahmad https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPACT OF WATER USE EFFICIENCY, CARBON FOOTPRINT, PRODUCTIVITY AND NUTRITIONAL QUALITY OF WHEAT-GROUNDNUT CROPPING SYSTEM
Crop production in such areas is challenged by water limitation, high rates of carbon footprint and declining soil nutrient status. In Pakistan’s rainfed areas, conventional monocultures such as wheat-fallow sequences diminish soil health and yield. The wheat-groundnut cropping system is suggested as a better practice for better soil physical attributes, yield and conservation. But its water-saving, carbon footprint, and nutritional profiles have not been critically scrutinised. The main objectives of this research are three fold: To increase agronomic efficiency of water in the wheat-groundnut system, to reduce carbon emissions per unit of yield, and to increase the nutritive value of grains. An experimental field trial of two years duration was carried out on University Research Farm, Koont, Pakistan using RCBD with eight treatments. The treatments were optimized nutrient management and biofertilizers, mulching and integrated nutrient management which was used on the wheat and groundnut crops. Variance in WUE, carbon footprint, yield, status of the soil and protein content was also taken. The analysis revealed that the values of WUE under T8, were higher (3·6 ± 0·10 kg/ha·mm) and carbon emissions (CO? eq/ha) were lower (1250 ± 18.5) as compared to the T1 which had WUE of (1·5 ± 0·10) kg/ha·mm and carbon footprint of 1123·3 ± 15· T8 also produced the highest yields of both wheat (4100 ± 55.0 kg/ha) and groundnut (3500 ± 95.0 kg/ha) and slightly higher protein levels in the two crops. Mean values of all treatments were compared and the results indicated that T8 was significantly (p < 0.05) better than other treatments in terms of total efficiency and sustainability. This study aims at filling this gap by providing solution oriented information on development of climate resilient cropping systems for semi-arid regions in improving water use efficiency and reducing negative impacts of land and water use of rainfed cropping systems while enhancing productivity.
Copyright (c) 2025 Alvina Faraz; Mukhtar Ahmad; Nadir Ali; Mansoor Ali; Usama Ashiq; Saif Ullah; Muhammad Asim; Abdul Rehman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENHANCING U.S. AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTIVITY THROUGH PREDICTIVE ANALYTICS AND SUSTAINABLE FARMING PRACTICES
Climate change, resource depletion, soil degradation, and rising global food demand are some of the issues facing the U.S. agriculture industry at this pivotal moment. Predictive analytics combined with sustainable agricultural methods provides a revolutionary way to solve these problems by enhancing output, effectiveness, and environmental sustainability. With the help of machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and big data, predictive analytics helps farmers forecast yields, identify plant diseases, improve crop management, and make informed decisions. Predictive models can increase resilience against climate unpredictability, decrease waste, and optimize resource allocation by evaluating both historical and current data on weather patterns, soil health, and crop performance. Technologies for precision agriculture, such as automated irrigation systems, Internet of Things (IoT)-enabled gadgets, and remote sensing, improve data-driven decision-making even further and guarantee effective use of herbicides, fertilizers, and water. By maintaining soil health, enhancing biodiversity, and lowering the carbon footprint of farming operations, sustainable farming techniques include regenerative agriculture, crop rotation, conservation tillage, agroforestry, and cover crops enhance predictive analytics. Organic additions and no-till farming are two methods that improve soil organic matter, boosting long-term sustainability and production. Drip irrigation and intelligent water management are two examples of water-efficient irrigation techniques that are essential for preserving crop yields while conserving water resources. Through case studies and technology advancements that have effectively increased production and decreased environmental impact, this paper investigates the synergy between predictive analytics and sustainable farming. U.S. farmers can attain more productivity, greater profitability, and a more robust agricultural system by implementing these cutting-edge techniques. The findings underscore the importance of integrating technology with ecological stewardship to ensure food security and sustainability in the face of global agricultural challenges.
Copyright (c) 2025 Ismoth Zerine; Md Mainul Islam https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ACOUSTIC MONITORING OF FOREST PESTS HYLURGUS LIGNIPERDA FABRICIUS AND BUPRESTIDAE IN PINUS THUNBERGII PARL.
This study aims to investigate the feasibility of acoustic monitoring for distinguishing species and behavioral activities of wood-boring pests, specifically the bark beetle Hylurgus ligniperda Fabricius and jewel beetles (Buprestidae), to provide technical support for early non-destructive monitoring of cryptic pests. Under controlled conditions (temperature 25 ± 1°C, humidity 45 ± 5%), acoustic signals generated during feeding and crawling activities of the two pests on the bark of Japanese black pine ( Pinus thunbergii Parl.) were collected using self-made soundproof equipment and an acoustic acquisition system. Parameters including pulse count, peak amplitude (dB), and peak frequency (Hz) were extracted through acoustic processing software and statistically compared via one-way ANOVA. Results showed significant differences in acoustic parameters between H. ligniperda and Buprestidae during feeding (p < 0.001). H. ligniperda exhibited higher pulse count (27.00 ± 22.31), peak amplitude (-37.34 ± 3.40 dB), and peak frequency (3208.25 ± 783.62 Hz) compared to Buprestidae (pulse count 2.25 ± 2.20; peak amplitude -25.11 ± 4.73 dB; peak frequency 1291.40 ± 1154.58 Hz). Significant differences were also observed between feeding and crawling behaviors of H. ligniperda (p < 0.01): feeding yielded fewer pulses (27.00 ± 22.31) but higher peak frequency (3208.25 ± 783.62 Hz), while crawling produced more pulses (91.75 ± 29.66) and higher amplitude (-31.59 ± 5.58 dB). Acoustic parameters effectively distinguished both species and their behavioral patterns, confirming the potential of acoustic monitoring for early detection of wood-boring pests. Further field validation is required to enhance practical applicability.
Copyright (c) 2025 Qiang Xu; ChenXi Shao; HaiJun Liu; Yu Xing; Shuang Wei https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF LIMONIUM STOCKSII LEAF POWDER ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND INTESTINAL MICROBIAL POPULATION OF BROILER CHICKS
This study was carried out to investigate the effect of Limonium stocksii leaf powder on the growth performance and intestinal microbial population of broiler chicks. 500 -1-day old (Ross 308) broiler chicks were randomly distributed into five treatments with 5 replicates and 10 chicks in each replicate in a complete randomized design. Basal diet was adequate in all nutrients according to the requirements of birds. Birds in treatment one (T1) was fed basal diet without Limonium stocksii leaf powder while those in treatment two (T2), T3, T4 and T5 were fed same diet with Limonium stocksii leaf powder at 20 g, 40 g, 60 g and 80 g per kg diet. The experiment lasted for 28 days and chicks had unrestricted access to clean fresh water and feed. Result obtained showed that Limonium stocksii leaf powder contains several phyto-constituents with flavonoids having the highest concentration (851.4 mg/g) while coumarins had the lowest concentration of 82.63 mg/g. Average daily weight gain was higher in T5 (59.68 g/b), intermediate in T2 (54.63 g/b), T3 (54.74 g/b), T4 (54.80 g/b) and lowest in T1 (48.83 g/b) (P<0.05). Average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio which varied from 74.18 – 78.95 g and 1.32 – 1.69 were significantly influenced by the treatment (P<0.05). Mortality was recorded only among birds fed T1 (1.21 %) (P<0.05). Intestinal microbial counts of Streptococcus spp, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas spp, Micrococcus spp and Salmonella spp ranged from 3.85 – 6.55 (cfu/g), 4.92 – 8.13 cfu/g, 2.98 – 4.11 cfu/g, 2.01 – 2.93 cfu/g, 4.74 – 7.08 cfu/g and 4.16 – 6.14 cfu/g were higher in T1 relative to the other groups. Conversely, Lactobacillus spp was lowest in T1 relative to the other treatments. In conclusion, dietary supplementation of Limonium stocksii leaf powder up to 60 g/kg positively influenced the growth performance and gastrointestinal morphology of broiler chicks.
Copyright (c) 2024 Alagbe Olujimi John https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
DIETARY SUPPLEMENTATION OF OCOTEA ACIPHYLLA ESSENTIAL OIL: EFFECT ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND NUTRIENT DIGESTIBILITY OF WEANED RABBITS
A 60-day experiment was carried out at Sumitra Research Institute in Gujarat to investigate the effect of dietary supplementation with Ocotea aciphylla essential oil on weaned rabbit growth performance and nutrient digestibility. The experiment used 50 weaned cross-bred male rabbits. The animals were acclimatized for two weeks and fed a basal diet that was adequate in all nutrients based on their requirements. Then, their body weights were equalized and randomly assigned to five treatments, each with ten rabbits. Every treatment has ten replicates, with one animal per replicate. Animals in treatment 1 were fed basal diet without Ocotea aciphylla oil, treatment 2, 3, 4 and 5 were fed same diet supplemented with Ocotea aciphylla oil at 0.1 mL, 0.2 mL, 0.3 mL and 0.4 mL/kg diet. The main chemicals found in Ocotea aciphylla oil were α-pinene (22.60%), α-cymene (12.41%), α-terpinene (10.45%), myrcene (7.53%), α-thujene (6.05%), and limonene (5.10%). The other chemicals obtained were less than 5.00%. The treatment had a significant (P<0.05) effect on the average daily weight increase and feed intake values, which ranged from 19.86 to 26.40 g and 100.3 to 106.9 g, respectively. Dietary supplements improved FCR compared to control, with just 1.20% mortality among rabbits on diet 1 (P<0.05). The nutrient digestibility of dry matter (68.14 - 77.81%), crude protein (59.07 - 68.19%), crude fiber (35.62 - 40.41%), ether extract (47.35 - 50.73%), and nitrogen free extracts (49.18 - 59.94%) varied considerably (P < 0.05) across treatments. Finally, Ocotea aciphylla essential oil can be added to the food of weaned rabbits at a dose of up to 0.4 mL/kg without impairing animal performance.
Copyright (c) 2024 Alagbe Olujimi John; Shittu; M.D.; Ojediran; T.K.; Omokore; E A.; Oluwayinka; E.O.; Anorue; D.N.; Bamigboye; Samson.; Effiong; Sadiq M.R https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF PAWPAW (CARRICA PAPAYA) SEED OIL INCLUSION ON CARCASS CHARACTERISTICS AND HAEMATO-BIOCHEMOICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS
This experiment was aimed to evaluate the effect of broiler chickens fed diets containing pawpaw (carrica papaya) seed oil (PSO) as a feed addictive on Carcass quality and haemato-biochemoical indices of broiler Chickens. A total of 195 day-old Arbor Acre were used, Five experimental diets each were formulated during the starter (1-28days) and finisher (29-58days) phases such that the basal diets were addictive with 0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3 and 0.4% PSO respectively. These chicks were randomly allocated to the five dietary treatments comprising of three replicates each in a completely randomized design. At day 58, three (3) birds per treatment were randomly selected for slaughter in order to measure carcass cut-up parts (thigh, breast, neck, wing, back, drumstick and abdominal fat), and selected organs were weighed and expressed relative to live weight. The immunity index was also evaluated. Pack cell volume, red blood cell, haemoglobin, means corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell, lymphocytes and monocyte values were significantly (P<0.05) different among the group. There was no particular trend in the mortality pattern across the treatments. In conclusion, it was conclusion, dietary supplementation of PSO up to 0.4ml in the diet of broiler without causing any deleterious effect on their performance and health status.
Copyright (c) 2024 Bamigboye Samson. O; Aduragbemi Yetunde Adesina; Oluchi Jecinta Eleleh https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
COMPARATIVE STUDIES ON ANTIOXIDANT PROPERTIES OF SELECTED VARIETIES OF BANANA PEELS AND FORMULATION OF YOGHURT WITH BANANA PEEL EXTRACT TO STUDY THE STORABILITY OF YOGHURT
Banana peel is considered as a natural source of antioxidants and phytochemicals which is rich in free radical scavenging activity. This study aimed to compare the antioxidant properties of banana peels from three different varieties of bananas, ‘Seeni’ (ABB), ‘Kolikuttu’ (AAB) and ‘Ambul’ (AAB). Antioxidant activity was assessed with DPPH (2, 2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) and ABTS+ (2-2’-Azino-Bis-3- Ethylbenzothiazoline-6-Sulfonic Acid) assays. The DPPH values of ‘Ambul’, ‘Kolikuttu’, and ‘Seeni’ were 55.36 ± 0.89%, 56.55 ± 1.86%, 57.77 ± 8.67% and the ABTS+ values were 7.94 ± 1.45%, 59.74 ± 2.31% and 69.8 ± 0.76% respectively. The highest antioxidant activity was given by the ‘Seeni’. The preliminary consumer survey was confirmed the acceptability for yogurt to incorporate with banana peel extract. Lactobacillus rhamnosus was used as the bacteria culture for the preparation of yogurt. The ethanolic banana peel extract of ‘Seeni’ was incorporated with yogurt within the range of 0-1000 μL/100 mL milk. Over 90% of added extract was remained in the final product. The results revealed the significantly higher (p< 0.05) total phenolic content (TPC), DPPH, ABTS+ compared to control yogurt. The yoghurt which was incorporated the extract up to 800 μL/100g was received the highest rating in the 9 points hedonic scale in terms of appearance, flavor, consistency, and overall acceptability. A higher TPC, DPPH, ABTS+ and lower peroxide value were exhibited compared to control yogurt after 21 days. At the end of the 7th, 14th and 21st day, the DPPH values were varied from 70.67 ± 1.54% to 74.79 ± 2.36%, 71.18 ± 3.21%, 75.30 ± 1.54% and ABTS+ values were varied from 69.31 ± 1.23% to 65.21 ± 0.34%, 62.45 ± 0.63%, and 62.47 ± 1.23% respectively. The color, pH, titrable acidity, the microbial count did not result a significant difference at refrigeration storage. The study was demonstrated that banana peel extract has the potential to be used as a functional food ingredient for promoting the storability of yoghurt.
Copyright (c) 2024 P.G. Tharangani S. Thilakarathna; O.D.A.N. Perera https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF WEANED RABBITS FED PAWPAW SEED OIL
This experiment was carried out to investigate the haematological and serum biochemical indices of weaned rabbits fed pawpaw seed oil. Thirty-six weaned cross bred rabbits (Chinchilla × New Zealand white) with an initial body weight of 517.0 ± 0.26 grams were used for this experiment. Rabbits were balanced for weights and assigned to four treatment groups in a completely randomized design (CRD) in a feeding trial that lasted for eight weeks. Basal diet was formulated to meet the nutritional requirement of rabbits according to NRC (1977). Animals in treatment 1 was fed basal diet without pawpaw seed oil while treatment 2, 3 and 4 were fed same diet supplemented with pawpaw seed oil at 0.1 mL, 0.2 mL and 0.3 mL per kilogram respectively. Feed and water were supplied at all times. Results obtained showed that pack cell volume, haemoglobin, red blood cell, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin, mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration, white blood cell, lymphocytes, monocytes and basophil count which varied from 27.82 – 34.65 %, 8.45 – 13.06 g/dL, 4.81 – 6.07 (×106μL), 38.83 – 54.11 fl, 16.54 – 26.57 pg, 60.46 – 82.60 %, 7.45 – 11.56 (×103μL), 54.73 – 70.67 (×103μL), 5.17 – 5.30 (×103μL) and 2.13 – 3.10 (×103μL) were influenced (P<0.05) by the treatment. Albumin, globulin and glucose levels were significantly (P<0.05) increased except for creatinine and urea values (P>0.05). However, values obtained were within the established range for healthy rabbits. In conclusion, pawpaw seed oil can be fed to weaned rabbits up to 0.3 mL per kg without causing any deleterious effect on their health status.
Copyright (c) 2024 Aliyu; K. I; Alagbe; J. O; Belewu M. A; Wisdom; A.O; Garba https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF REPLACING MAIZE WITH DOUM PALM PULP MEAL ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND SOME HAEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS OF BROILERS
This 6 weeks experiment was carried out to evaluate the effect of replacing doum palm pulp meal on the growth performance and haematological parameters of broilers.A total of 350 1-day old broiler chicks (Arbo acres) were randomly distributed into five treatments with seven replicates, each of the replicates consist of ten birds each and a completely randomized design was adopted. Experimental diet was formulated to meet all the nutrient requirements for broilers according to NRC (1994) recommendation. Diet 1 was a control diet without doum palm pulp meal while doum palm pulp meal was used to replace maize at 5%, 10 %, 15 % and 20 % in diet 2, 3, 4 and 5 respectively. Birds had unlimited access to feed and clean water throughout the 42 days experimental period. Proximate analysis of doum palm pulp meal showed that it contained crude protein (7.91 %), crude fibre (13.41 %), ether extract (0.75 %), ash (9.88 %) and metabolizable energy (3440.8 Kcal/kg). Average weight gain (1971.2 - 1958.9 g), total feed intake (4892.1 - 4920.1 g) and feed conversion ratio (2.41 - 2.44) were not significantly different except for mortality rate (p<0.05). Total erythrocyte count, haemoglobin, hematocrit and total leucocyte count were significantly (p<0.05) different among the treatments. However, values were within the standard reference range for healthy birds. It was concluded that doum palm pulp meal can be used to replace maize up to 20 % without compromising the performance of broilers.
Copyright (c) 2024 Aliyu; Bako; Audu; Abubakar; Mohammed; Sule https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PROXIMATE, MINERAL AND PHYTOCHEMICAL ANALYSIS OF SOME MEDICINAL PLANTS COLLECTED FROM ORATHUR VILLAGE, THIRUPORUR TALUK KANCHEEPURAM DISTRICT TAMILNADU, INDIA
The use of medicinal plants has a long tradition as part of the human diet and has therapeutic agents. That is why they are well accepted by consumers and are generally considered to be environmentally friendly, efficient and generally considered to be safe alternative to antibiotics due to the presence of phytochemicals found in the leaves, stem bark, roots, flowers amongst others. Medicinal plant also possesses nutritional properties and play multiple pharmacological roles such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, antimicrobial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-helminthic, hepato-protective activity amongst others. This study was aimed at accessing the proximate, mineral and phytochemical composition of Tephrosia purpurea, Adhatoda vasica, Crataeva nurvala, Bauhinia racemose, Holarrhena antidysenterica and Aegle marmelos. Result on proximate analysis showed that moisture content varied from 13.57 – 16.02 %, dry matter (83.98 – 86.43 %), crude protein (5.06 – 7.12 %), ash (9.90 – 12.04 %), crude fibre (12.74 – 14.32 %), crude fat (0.10 – 0.22 %) and carbohydrates (40.30 – 50.17 %). Concentrations of calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, zinc, manganese, sodium and copper ranged from 120 – 148.0 mg/100g, 180.0 – 300 mg/100g, 66.8 – 94.2 mg/100g, 41.8 – 69.8 mg/100g, 27.9 – 44.6 mg/100g, 119 – 133 mg/100g and 8.21 – 13.1 mg/100g respectively. Quantitative evaluation of tannins showed that values varied from 39.00 – 46.50 mg/g, alkaloids (26.35 – 35.09 mg/g), saponins (20.05 – 30.40 mg/g), flavonoids (66.10 – 86.11 mg/g), terpenoids (40.71 – 45.88 mg/g) and phenols (106.8 – 125.4 mg/g). In conclusion, it was discovered that it contained some essential nutrients in significant quantities. However, values obtained varied due to age of plant, specie, processing method amongst others. The presence of phytochemicals in these plant suggests that it has pharmacological properties. Accessing the constituent’s in this plants could lead to a novel drug discovery and curb the increasing cases in antimicrobial resistance.
REPLACEMENT OF MAIZE WITH MELON-GROUNDNUT SHELL MEAL ON THE GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF GROWING RABBITS
This experiment was carried out to determine the replacement of maize with melon-groundnut shell meal on the growth performance and some haematological indices of growing rabbits. Fifty- eight weeks old cross breed male growing rabbits with an initial body weight of 406.1 ± 0.60 grams was used for the study. On arrival, animals were quarantined for two weeks and fed basal diet before they were stratified based on their body weights five treatments with ten replicates consisting of one rabbit each in a completely randomized design. Rabbits in treatment one was fed basal diet without melon-groundnut shell meal while melon-groundnut shell meal was used to replace maize at 5 %, 10 %, 15 % and 20 % in treatment two, three, four and five respectively. Feed and clean water was made available at all times and the experiment lasted for 56 days. Proximate analysis of melon-groundnut shell meal (combined in ratio 1:1) showed that it contained dry matter (90.03 %), crude protein (8.46 %), crude fibre (41.51 %), ether extract (2.07 %), ash (10.88 %) and energy (3231.8 Kcal/kg). Average daily weight gain, average daily feed intake and feed conversion ratio values which ranged from 27.75 – 28.10 grams, 105.0 – 105.1 grams and 3.75 – 3.77 were not significantly (P>0.05) influenced by the treatment. Similarly, no mortality was recorded throughout the study (P>0.05). Haemoglobin, pack cell volume and red blood cell count follow similar trend, values were higher in treatment one and lower in treatment two, three, four and five (P<0.05). Total platelet counts and white blood cell count whose values varied from 102.1 – 120.8 (×109/L) and 10.42 – 13.40 (×109/L) were influenced (P<0.05) by the treatment. However, values recorded were within the baseline values for healthy growing rabbits. In conclusion, melon-groundnut shell meal contains some available nutrients and can be used to replace maize up to 20 % without compromising the performance of the animal.
Copyright (c) 2024 Alagbe; J. O. 1; Shittu; M. D. 2; Ojediran; T. K. 3; Anuore; D. N. 4 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
IMPLEMENTING A COST-EFFECTIVE SOIL MONITORING SYSTEM USING WIRELESS SENSOR NETWORKS TO ENHANCE FARMING PRACTICES FOR SMALL-SCALE FARMERS IN DEVELOPING ECONOMY COUNTRIES
Small-scale farmers in Africa often face challenges in monitoring soil and environmental parameters essential for informed agricultural decision-making. This study addresses this issue by developing a cost-effective soil monitoring system utilizing Wireless Sensor Networks (WSN). Our approach integrates real-time data analysis and visualization components to offer timely insights into soil conditions, weather patterns, and crop development, thereby enhancing agricultural decision-making processes. While commercial soil monitoring systems exist, their high cost presents a barrier to widespread adoption, particularly in African contexts. To address this issue, our proposed system utilizes WSN sensor nodes transmitting data to a central database via Arduinos functioning as web servers. This innovative approach extends monitoring capabilities to remote areas beyond the reach of individual nodes, thus promoting accessibility and affordability through the utilization of open-source software. In conclusion, our study aims to revolutionize farming practices in Africa by providing an affordable solution that empowers farmers with actionable insights for optimized agricultural outcomes, thereby aligning with the distinctive African perspective on the theory and practice of information systems.
Copyright (c) 2024 Phumla P. DLAMINI; Swelihle MSOMI; Tinashe CHIZEMA; Darelle VAN GREUNEN https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECTS OF XYLO-OLIGOSACCHARIDES ON SOYBEAN GROWTH AND MOSAIC VIRUS DISEASE RESISTANCE
Soybeans were treated with xylo-oligosaccharides at different concentrations to study the effects of xylo-oligosaccharides on soybean growth and mosaic virus (SMV) resistance. Greenhouse experimental results. It shows that: compared with the control after treating soybean seeds with xylo-oligosaccharide solution for 18 days, 50 mg·L-1 xylo-oligosaccharide has a significant promoting effect on the plant height, fresh weight and main root length of soybean seedlings. Soybean leaves sprayed with xylo-oligosaccharides were inoculated with SMV 18 hours later, which significantly reduced the SMV disease index compared with the control. Quantitative RT-PCR was used to detect the expression of defense-related genes in soybean leaves treated with xylo-oligosaccharides. Compared with the control, the defense genes PR2, PR10, PR12 and LOX2 had the highest expression levels when treated with xylo-oligosaccharides for 12 h. The relative expression level; PR3 had the highest relative expression level when treated with xylo-oligosaccharide for 18 h; the expression of PR1, PAL, PPO and CHS was significantly up-regulated when treated with xylo-oligosaccharide for 24 h. Studies have shown that xylo-oligosaccharides activate the soybean SA signaling pathway and JA signaling pathway, thereby improving soybean resistance to SMV.
Copyright (c) 2024 T.H. Ghabrial https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESEARCH OF AGROFORESTRY ECOSYSTEM SERVICES AND IT’S IMPLICATIONS FOR INDUSTRIAL REVITALIZATION IN KARST REGIONS
Agroforestry industry is a derivative industry of ecological governance that takes into account ecological environment restoration, sustainable utilization of soil resources and social and economic benefits. Integrating ecosystem services with agroforestry practices are not only one of the main frontiers of global ecosystem services research, but also a specific path to promote the transformation of rocky desertification control to the stage of ecological industry revitalization, ecosystem services improvement and integration. This paper systematically reviewed the research progress and characteristics of agroforestry ecosystem services, revealed the internal relationship between agroforestry ecosystem services and industrial revitalization in karst are as, and discussed the direction of industrial revitalization in karst areas from three aspects of cognition, evaluation and decision-making of agroforestry ecosystem services. It is emphasized that the future karst region should provide decision support for the revitalization of agroforestry industry from the aspects of cascading mechanism, supply-demand relationship, trade -off and synergy, and influencing factors of agroforestry ecosystem services. Thus, it can better serve karst areas to consolidate the effectiveness of rocky desertification control, improve ecosystem services, and help rural revitalization.
Copyright (c) 2023 Shanhong Sun; Erwin Bergius https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESEARCH ON THE ALLOCATION EVALUATION OF ROPICAL AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY RESOURCES IN HAINAN PROVINCE
Exist "Fourteenth Five-Year Plan" Beginning with a solid analysis of the past the distribution of scientific and technological resources in tropical agriculture in Hainan Province in the past 10 years, and its impact on the high-efficiency tropical agriculture in China. It is of great significance to optimize the layout of agricultural production nationwide. This study uses DEA model with 2011-2020, 10 years Hainan farmer Based on the input-output data of industrial scientific and technological innovation, the comprehensive efficiency, pure technical efficiency and scale efficiency of Hainan's agricultural scientific and technological resource allocation efficiency are analyzed. result table It shows that in recent years, the overall allocation of agricultural science and technology resources in Hainan Province has been at a medium to high level, and the growth rate has basically remained flat. Combining Hainan's agricultural science and technology innovation.The current situation of development, and put forward policy suggestions for optimizing the allocation of agricultural science and technology resources in Hainan and improving the competitiveness of science and technology in the future: Strengthen Hainan's agricultural science and technology innovation talents team development; Guarantee the support of Hainan's agricultural science and technology research projects; Focus on promoting the construction of a technical system for the transformation of agricultural scientific and technological achievements in Hainan; Innovative Hainan Farmers Open the system and mechanism of the industry to the outside world, and build a global agricultural industry chain.
Agricultural science and technology resource allocation
Copyright (c) 2023 Wanchun Wang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESEARCH ON ANIMAL HUSBANDRY ECONOMY ASSISTING RURAL REVITALIZATION
With the accelerated pace of reform and opening up, China’s animal husbandry industry has made great achievements. The development of animal husbandry can not only promote the basic life of the people, The improvement of quality can also drive domestic employment, especially the employment of farmers, improve their income levels, and make our country's economy progress. one step growth. animal husbandry The improvement can enhance the development of rural secondary and tertiary industries and is an important pillar industry for rural revitalization. However, China's animal husbandry industry is also currently facing short industrial chains and resource constraints. constraints, low production efficiency, information asymmetry, environmental protection and other issues. This article draws on the experience of developed countries in the animal husbandry industry and combines the development characteristics of our country to propose the following The following suggestions: It is necessary to distinguish the production characteristics of different livestock breeds and establish the direction of large-scale development; to establish cooperative economic organizations for animal husbandry with Chinese characteristics; leading enterprises to drive agricultural production household development, deepening the development of industrial integration; and extending the livestock industry chain, thereby making China's livestock economy more efficient and helping rural revitalization.
Copyright (c) 2023 J.L. Agamuthu https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EFFECT OF SAND COVER ON SOIL WATER AND SALT TRANSPORT AND BARBARY WOLFBERRY GROWTH AND YIELD IN SALINE-ALKALI LAND
The aim is to explore the different sand covering patterns of barbary wolfberry in saline-alkali land (no sand covering as a control, Fine sand covering of 5cm, Fine sand covering of 10cm, 10cm, The effect of coarse sand covering 5cm) on soil water and salt transport and the growth and yield of wolfberry. Using 3a sheng 'Ningqi No. 1' barbary wolfberry as the test material to determine the soil moisture content of 0~100cm in different growth periods, pH, Salt content and composition, etc. The results show that: compared with no sand cover, Under the condition of sand covering, the soil water content during the barbary wolfberry growth period was significantly improved, and the soil pH and whole salt content of saline-alkali land were effectively reduced, and the thickness of coarse sand covering was 5cm, and the salt ion Na was optimal+, K+, SO2, Cl-. The inhibitory effect is more prominent. At the same time, different sand covering treatment also promoted the growth and development of Chinese wolfberry, and the branch length increased on average 15. 22%, Barbary wolfberry The yield of all reached extremely significant levels, The 5cm yield, Net income and production and investment ratio are the best, 19. 64%. For the cultivation of barbary wolfberry in saline-alkali arid areas, the overall salt suppression effect of 5cm is the most significant, which is an effective coverage method for the continuous and stable production of barbary wolfberry in Hongsibao irrigated area.
Copyright (c) 2023 M.V.K. Motha https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
RESEARCH ON THE COUPLED DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY OF AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY, GRASS AND ANIMAL HUSBANDRY IN THE LOESS PLATEAU
The “farming-based” agriculture and animal husbandry in the Loess Plateau is facing sustainable development issues. The primary and secondary relationship between agriculture and animal husbandry should be replaced. Adjust the "focus on farming " Integrated into "pastoral-based"; agricultural and animal husbandry resources are re-allocated through the coupling of agriculture, forestry, grass and irrigation, Implement grass-irrigation first based on the idea of grassing first if grass is suitable, irrigation first if irrigation is suitable, and forest first if forest is suitable. Implement development strategies and gradually form grass and shrub (wood). The forest three-dimensional ecological barrier and the complementary structure of related industries. The animal husbandry industry in the Loess Plateau should develop an eco-friendly animal husbandry with unique paths and innovative mechanisms. It should promote the operation mode of house-fed and semi-house-fed animal husbandry, with large breeding households as the main body and cooperatives as the link. The breeding community is used as a platform to cultivate the main body of animal husbandry production and operation in the Loess Plateau. Focusing on the coupled development of agriculture, forestry, grassland and animal husbandry, we will vigorously strengthen industrial cultivation, policy support, and project Project investment, interest guidance and other support points will form a "four-wheel drive" development pattern of animal husbandry in the Loess Plateau.
Copyright (c) 2023 John O. Brown https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EXPLORATION AND PRACTICE OF TEACHING REFORM OF HORTICULTURAL PLANT PATHOLOGY
Taking the talent needs and graduation ability requirements in the field of horticulture as the starting point, taking the theory-practice integrated teaching model as the basis for teaching reform, from the teaching objectives, teaching syllabus, teaching Reform the horticultural plant pathology course from multiple dimensions such as learning content, course ideology and politics, teaching staff and teaching evaluation. Strive to explore more effective teaching reform models and cultivate high-quality Qualitative applied talents.
Copyright (c) 2023 Lalisa Leimona https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ECOLOGICAL LANDSCAPE CONSTRUCTION STRATEGIES FOR RURAL LAND CONSOLIDATION
This article aims at the existing problems of rural land use in China and the needs for rural ecological landscape construction, through analyzing domestic and foreign land consolidation goals and technology development trends. research, combined with relevant surveys. The strategic needs of ecological landscape construction in rural land consolidation in China were discussed. Summarizes the land development strategies aiming at comprehensive rural development The goals and tasks of land remediation were proposed, and construction strategies and technical requirements related to land remediation were proposed. Key conclusions include: Land remediation should pay attention to the study of rural landscape characteristics and maintain Connect and improve the cultural and aesthetic value of rural landscape; strengthen research on land multifunctionality, pay attention to ecological network and green infrastructure construction on a large scale, improve habitat quality and landscape diversity on a small scale, and improve land remediation productivity and ecological landscape Service capabilities and carbon sequestration capabilities; strengthen research on hydrological and ecological processes in river basins, carry out rural non-point source pollution control and respond to extreme climate change events; strengthen research on ecological landscape technology for land consolidation projects, improve land consolidation technical regulations; broaden the implementation of land consolidation projects Mechanism to improve participation in land remediation.
Copyright (c) 2023 Delia C. Minang https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
ENVIRONMENTAL COST ANALYSIS OF CHEMICAL PREVENTION AND CONTROL TECHNOLOGIES OF CROP DISEASES AND PESTS
This article analyzes the causes and categories of environmental costs of chemical prevention and control technologies for crop pests and diseases, and points out that soil pollution, water pollution, fishery losses, pest resistance, natural enemy populations and biodiversity losses, bee product losses, and bee pollination losses are the main environmental Cost category. A preliminary analysis was made of the economic impact of each category of environmental costs, and it was initially calculated that the environmental costs incurred by my country's use of pesticides to prevent and control crop diseases and insect pests are at least 39.4 to 118.7 yuan/kg.
Copyright (c) 2024 Connor Toman https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
PROGRESS ANALYSIS AND OUTLOOK OF DONGYING BASE
The Yellow River Delta is an important ecological functional area in my country and a key area for achieving national food security. This article reviews the recent research progress of Ludong University’s Dongying base for the high-quality development of modern agriculture integrating industry and education, and analyzes several important research issues surrounding ecological protection and high-quality development in the Yellow River Delta from the perspectives of food security and ecological environment protection, pointing out These are the scientific challenges that need to be overcome, and the prospects for major research areas such as comprehensive management and efficient utilization of saline-alkali soil are prospected.
Comprehensive management of saline-alkali land
Copyright (c) 2024 Soundar Mallik https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
APPLICATION OF LOAD CELLS IN PRECISION AGRICULTURAL EQUIPMENT
Sensors are one of the key technologies to improve the industrialization level of precision agriculture in China. In the entire precision agriculture production cycle, load sensors have potential application areas in every link. This article discusses the application of load sensors in four different stages of precision agriculture implementation: land preparation, precision sowing, crop management, and precision harvesting. The current application and research status of precision agricultural equipment is summarized. On this basis, three main key issues that need to be solved urgently in the practical application of current weighing sensors in precision agriculture are further analyzed: reliability, stability and dynamic measurement accuracy. Finally, the key common technologies involved in solving these problems, including sensitive mechanisms, manufacturing processes and measurement technologies, are further elaborated.
Copyright (c) 2024 Satoru Inagaki https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
EVOLUTION AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS OF ECOLOGICAL PLANNING STRATEGIES IN LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
The purpose of studying the development of ecological planning methods of landscape architecture is mainly to explore the role of landscape architecture in urban development. This article mainly explores the development of ecological planning methods of landscape architecture in different periods, points out the key points of planning methods at different stages, discusses future landscape planning methods, and summarizes the key points of future landscape planning and development, with a view to providing reference for related research.
Copyright (c) 2024 Jack David https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
INVESTIGATION OF THE ROLE OF WETLAND FAUNA IN MANAGING AQUATIC ECOSYSTEMS
Wetland animals are crucial to the improvement of wetland water quality and ecological stability. This paper briefly describes the main characteristics of wetland animals including wetland birds, fish, amphibians, reptiles and zooplankton, summarizes the main functions of wetland animals in water quality purification, water environment biological monitoring and maintaining water ecological balance, and puts forward the wetland Strategies for animal protection, and suggestions and prospects for future research and development of wetland animals.
Copyright (c) 2024 Judith Stephen https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0