Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 6

Evaluation of Taro Germplasm for Resistance to Taro Leaf Blight Disease Caused by Phytophthora colocasiae and Corm Rot Disease Caused by Sclerotium rolfsii in Ghana

Frank Kwekucher Ackah — 2025-12-05

Studies to identify resistant varieties to the taro leaf blight disease caused by Phytophthora colocasiae and the corm rot disease caused by Sclerotium rofsii were conducted in the Eastern Region of Ghana in 2015. The studies comprised a laboratory leaf-disc bioassay and a field screening experiment. A total of 539 local accessions were collected from five regions in Ghana and established at Asuansi in the central region. Four local taro accessions (AS0060, CSRI0004, WR0005, and ER0063) that showed some level of tolerance to the taro leaf blight disease were selected after screening with the leaf disc assay and added to 17 other exotic varieties obtained from the Plant Genetics Resources Institute and screened in the field at Bososo in the Eastern Region of Ghana to confirm their resistance. A laboratory leaf disc bioassay was used to confirm the reactions of these accessions in the laboratory. Data was also collected on the reaction of these accessions to the corm rot disease. The data were subjected to analysis of variance using GenStat Discovery version 12. Amongst the 21 taro accessions evaluated, 4 exotic ones were identified to be Resistant (GA/TLBD/0003, GA/TLBD/0010, GA/TLBD/0007 and GA/TLBD/0002) to the TLBD and only one local accession (WR0005) was identified to be Tolerant (R). Most of the Resistant exotic accessions were also identified to be Susceptible to Sclerotium rot, whilst the local accessions were Resistant.

Field-Based Evaluation of IPM Strategies for Insect-Transmitted Viral Diseases in Rice-Fallow Blackgram in Krishna District, Andhra Pradesh, India

P. Srilatha — 2025-12-05

Black gram (Vigna mungo) is an important pulse crop of India. In coastal Andhra Pradesh, it fits well under the rice fallow-pulse ecosystem with residual moisture after the harvest of paddy. However, rice fallow blackgram is mainly attacked by certain pests and diseases leading to great loss to the farmers. In response to these challenges, a potential solution for adoption is Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. This study was conducted in ten locations of the farmers’ fields during 2020-21, 2021-22, and 2022-23 by the KVK and explored the impact of IPM on the Management of Sucking pests in Rice fallow Blackgram with the emphasis on the use of resistant varieties, seed treatment and other cultural practices. Data were recorded from ten randomly selected plants from each field. The observations were recorded to assess the percentage of virus-affected plants. The seed yield, cost of cultivation, net benefit and cost-benefit ratios were also calculated. By adoption of IPM practices in all three years, the incidence of the leaf crinkle, leaf curl and YMV was reduced in comparison with farmers’ practice; while bud necrosis was not noticed in all these years. This has resulted in a reduction in the average cost of cultivation by Rs. 2690.00 per hectare, and the average net income was improved by Rs. 13596 per hectare compared to the farmers' practice. The average yield levels (1659 kg/ha) improved by 10.91 per cent compared to farmers' practice (1496 kg/ha), giving a clear indication that adoption of IPM practices helped in improving the net income levels to the resource-poor farmers. This study concluded that IPM practices are substantially more effective than indiscriminate pesticide use for managing sucking pests like Aphids, Jassids, Thrips and Whiteflies and associated viral diseases in rice fallow blackgram. To minimize early vector infestation and prevent yield losses, integrated approaches involving seed treatment, elimination of alternative weed hosts, and cultivation of resistant varieties should be prioritised.

Agronomic Traits Evaluation of Selected Oil Palm Genotypes for Yield Enhancement on Njala Upland Soil

SENESIE SWARAY — 2025-12-05

This study was primarily undertaken to evaluate the fresh fruit bunch (FFB) yield performance among selected oil palm genotypes on Njala upland soil. An Independent Complete Randomised Design (ICRD) was used to carry out this field research. This study was conducted at the Njala University oil palm clonal seed garden, and the experiment was undertaken from 2021 to 2024. To determine the FFB yield, field research was carried out using four oil palm genotypes in an independent complete randomised design in four replications on 160 experimental sample palms. Three years of data were collected on yield and fruit bunch components, and vegetative traits. In the current study, 23 quantitative variables were used to evaluate the performance of four genotypes of oil palm. Through the analysis of variance, the morphological features of the different variants showed a wide range of variation. The traits were found to be influenced by the environment. Genotype Y26666B had the highest FFB yield at 188.31 (kg/palm/year), followed by genotype Y26515A at 171.58 (kg/palm/year). It was further examined that the FFB yield gap exists among the genotypes and all of them [Y26515A, Y26456A, Y26666B and Y26520C (13.16, 17.86, 11.90 and 17.86 t/genotype/year)], respectively, proved to have a high FFB yield gap. This showed that among the elite genotypes (Y26666B and Y26515A), there is a significant opportunity to increase their FFB yield. Correlation (r) validated that fruit bunch number had a more positive impact on FFB yield than average bunch weight. Heritability result revealed that the average bunch weight had the highest heritability percentage value of 82.50%. The findings suggested an alternative method for future studies; hence, genotype Y26666B could be selected as a parent for future breeding programs. However, the results could have been more informative if additional genotypes were selected and the conventional method was concurrently done with molecular studies.

Reforms and Management Challenges of Public Irrigated Perimeter Resources in Niger

ADAM Mamadou — 2025-12-05

The primary constraint to the development of Niger is the low availability of water resources. Niger's public irrigated perimeter faces several resource management constraints. Two successive reforms were initiated to address the challenges of resource management. First, the adoption of the Uniform Act required the conversion of agricultural cooperatives into cooperative societies. Second, the responsibility of the cooperative societies was limited to production management, and that of Water User Associations was to ensure better water governance. This study offers a qualitative analysis of the impact of two reforms on the development of public irrigated areas in Niger. Forty-five (45) focus groups were conducted to collect information from farmers (23) and their representatives (22). Data were collected in two stages, first between May and June 2022 and later in October 2022 for a period of 15 days, supported by other field activities. The results show that these reforms are accepted by all cooperators. However, they struggle to comply with the rules and principles related to the current legislation and democratic governance. Cooperative management has enabled control over irrigation schedules, cropping calendars, crop production cycles, etc. Nonetheless, significant shortcomings have been observed in the efficiency of water mobilisation and distribution, the use of agricultural inputs, and dedicated funds for royalty collection. These shortcomings persist as irrigation water user associations struggle to establish themselves. The causes of these dysfunctions are related to negative apprehensions among cooperative members, insufficient capacity building, poor awareness due to lack of sensitisation, and insufficiency of financial resources dedicated to the reforms. In future, studies should be developed upon this qualitative synthesis by conducting quantitative analyses, which will help to assess and validate the observed trends and provide deeper insights into the effectiveness of the reforms, the performance of the new management structures, and the factors influencing their successful operationalisation.

Assessment of Agroecological Transition and Polyculture Systems: Case Study of the Djirataoua Irrigated Perimeter

ADAM Mamadou — 2025-12-05

The rural sector of Niger faces insufficient rainfall, agricultural and forage deficits, degradation of natural resources and negative externalities related to climate change. These constraints are the main factors driving down agricultural productivity, resulting in food shortages. The Djirataoua irrigated perimeter was created in the 1980s. However, its exploitation follows several production models, mainly conventional and the adoption of a few agroecological practices. Polyculture systems play an important role in the production of food, both in quantity and quality. It is practised by adopting various cropping systems and using conventional and agroecological agricultural practices. This study aims to evaluate the agroecological transition of polyculture farming practices in the irrigated perimeter of Djirataoua. The methodology consisted of collecting qualitative data by 14 focus groups with committees of the cooperative societies and of the associations of irrigation water users, 14 individual interviews with producers and resource persons in the perimeter and field observations. The data were collected, synthesised and analysed on the basis of the thirteen (13) qualitative agroecological principles. The study revealed that several agroecological practices have been adopted as part of polyculture on the Djirataoua irrigated perimeter. Producers have a good understanding of the production cycles for most crops. Most of the seeds used are locally produced. The results mainly show that several agroecological practices are adopted in the development of the irrigated perimeter of Djirataoua. More than 69% of the agroecological principles defined by the High Level Panel Experts are already well applied. Mixed farming is an ongoing source of wealth creation. It has enabled women and young people to become financially independent. Recycling and soil health are not priority issues, but require improvements to ensure a dynamic and sustainable agroecosystem. Reducing synthetic inputs is the priority issue that requires immediate intervention. In this case, the transition will consist, initially, in the exclusive use and application of approved chemical inputs at doses recommended by research institutions. In a second phase, it will be based on a process of progressive substitution of conventional inputs and practices with agroecological alternatives.

Guidelines for Developing Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Variety to Enhance Food Security and Resilience to Climate Change

Homikhya Phukon — 2025-12-05

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is an underutilised annual crop mainly valued for its edible calyces, leaves and fibre. It is a tetraploid species belonging to the Malvaceae family with significant economic and medicinal importance. It is a self-pollinated crop which has cleistogamous flowers. It is mainly cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, including India, China, Thailand and various African and Caribbean countries. In India, it is widely grown in Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Odisha, Maharashtra and the North-Eastern states. Geo-climatic conditions of Roselle are favourable for the production of Roselle as it requires a warm and humid climate for its growth. The crop is known for its climate resilience and ability to grow in marginal soils, making it ideal for sustainable agriculture. Calyces of Roselle are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and widely used in postharvest processing industries to prepare food products like juices, teas and jams, while its stem provides coarse fibre used for rope and sack production. Calyces of Roselle have huge medicinal importance. Despite having immense potential, Roselle breeding has received very limited attention. Important breeding objectives include improving calyx and fibre yield, quality and resistance to pests, diseases, and abiotic stresses. Methods like pure line selection, hybridisation, and biotechnological tools are being used to develop improved varieties. Promising cultivars like HS-4288, Ujjal and JOR RS lines have shown good performance. Given its diverse applications and adaptability, focused research and development efforts are essential to unlock the full potential of Roselle in the food and fibre industries.

Evaluation of the Morphological Characteristics and Phytochemical Contents of Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) with Varying Rates of Poultry Manure

Onwubiko, G. N. — 2025-12-05

In many tropical and sub-tropical countries, Elephant Grass is a very popular forage, and in West Africa, it serves an important nutritional role in various meals. Poultry manure is an eco-friendly, valuable source of organic matter and nutrients that improve soil fertility and promote the development and growth of crops. Despite the availability of poultry manure and its numerous benefits, there’s limited knowledge on the most suitable application rates of this manure to elephant grass. This study, conducted at the Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, teaching and research farm, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, investigated the effect of varying rates of poultry manure on the morphological characteristics of Elephant Grass (Pennisetum purpureum) and its phytochemical constituents. Elephant grass shoots were sourced from a local farmers. The experiment employed a Completely Randomised Design (CRD) with five treatments: 0 (control), 5, 10, 15, and 20 tons of poultry manure per hectare, replicated five times. Morphological parameters, including stem height, stem girth, leaf length, and number of shoots, were measured weekly for eight weeks after planting. Phytochemicals analysis was performed on a BUCK M910 Gas chromatography equipped with a flame ionisation detector. The data obtained were analysed using analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results demonstrated that poultry manure significantly (P<0.05) influenced elephant grass growth from weeks 2 to 8, while only stem height was significant in week 1. Although the application rates of 10 and 15 t/ha did not differ significantly (P>0.05), the 15 tons/ha application rate consistently produced the highest mean values across all morphological parameters, closely followed by the 10 tons/ha rate. Notably, the control treatment (0 tons/ha) exhibited the lowest growth responses, highlighting the critical role of organic amendments in soil fertility and plant development. The 20 tons/ha rate surprisingly underperformed compared to moderate rates, suggesting potential nutrient toxicity or soil structure complications at higher application levels. The study concluded that moderate poultry manure application rates (10-15 tons/ha) optimise elephant grass establishment by providing an ideal balance of nutrients, improving soil moisture retention, and enhancing microbial activity. Ultimately, the research recommends a 10 tons/ha application rate for farmers, balancing cost-effectiveness, environmental considerations, and forage production efficiency. Further research is required to evaluate the long-term impacts of poultry manure application on soil health and its effects on other forage species to improve manure application recommendations.

Economic Appraisal of Farm Pond Investments and Their Impact on Wheat and Barley Cultivation in Jaipur District of Rajasthan, India

Vikas Chaudhary — 2025-12-05

Farm ponds play a pivotal role in optimising land and water resources for agricultural purposes, considering both surface water and groundwater. They serve as critical assets in the efficient management and conservation of soil and water resources, offering multifaceted solutions to meet diverse agricultural needs. This study aimed to assess the economic feasibility of investing in farm ponds among farmers in Jaipur district, Rajasthan, India. Primary data for this study were taken from eighty farmers, including 40 beneficiaries of RKVY-PDMC and MKSY and 40 non-beneficiary farmers for the agricultural year 2021-22. The study's findings revealed the cost of cultivation analysis for wheat and barley. In the case of the wheat crop, farm pond farmers recorded higher yields and profitability, with net returns increasing by 37.19 per cent, returns over variable costs by 34.25 per cent, and the cost of production declining by 28.34 per cent relative to non-farm pond farmers. A similar pattern was observed in the barley crop, where net returns rose by 43.33 per cent, returns over variable costs improved by 37.73 per cent, and the cost of production decreased by 22.07 per cent under farm pond conditions. Across both crops, assured and timely irrigation from farm ponds contributed to reduced expenditure on key variable inputs, particularly irrigation, fertilisers, and plant protection chemicals-thereby enhancing input-use efficiency, stabilising yields, and significantly improving overall economic performance. The total costs for constructing plastic-lined farm ponds were ₹242,348.56 without subsidy and ₹137,348.56 with subsidy per pond. Cost component-wise, machinery, labour, and material costs accounted for the majority (95%) of the total establishment cost without subsidy. The economic evaluation indicators demonstrated favourable outcomes for farm pond investments. The net present worth of the investment was positive, the benefit-cost ratio exceeded one and was positive, the internal rate of return exceeded the prevailing interest rate, and the payback period was relatively short, both with and without subsidies. This suggests that the government should continue to increase subsidy support for plastic-lined farm pond construction to promote economic prosperity among farmers.

Diagnosis of Soil Limiting Factors for Cocoa Trees in Southern Côte d'Ivoire: Approaches for Optimising Production in Azaguié

BOUADOU Oi Bouadou Félix — 2025-12-05

Cocoa is the essential raw material for chocolate production and provides several health benefits. Regular consumption of Cocoa has been shown to improve mood, prevent blood clots, premature cell ageing and the development of cancer in the human body. In recent years, cocoa yields in southern Côte d'Ivoire have stagnated or declined, highlighting the need to identify factors limiting production. This study aimed to identify the key soil characteristics that limit cocoa yields in Azaguié, with a view to improving production. The study was conducted in a field of Azaguié cocoa trees (5° 37’29" N, 4° 09’ 01" W) in southern Côte d'Ivoire. In a cocoa plantation, a topographic sequence (oriented N45° - L: 200 m) comprising a summit, upper slope, middle slope and lower slope was selected for the study. On each topographical segment, pseudo soil pits were dug at the foot of the cocoa trees (1 metre from the trunk). Soil samples from depths of 0–30 cm were taken and sent to the laboratory for physical and chemical analysis. The average values of the soil parameters for the topographical segments were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA). The pH levels range between 5.2 and 5.8, indicating highly acidic soils at the top and acidic soils at the bottom of the slope. Good potassium levels (K⁺: 0.3–0.6 cmol.kg^-1) and moderate calcium levels (Ca²⁺: 2.3–2.9 cmol.kg^-1) were noted, compared with very low magnesium concentrations. Except for the soils at the summit, which have unacceptable phosphorus levels (P: 29.7 mg.kg^-1), the soils at the top, middle and bottom of the slope are depleted in P, organic matter (OM) and nitrogen (N). The attachment sites for exchangeable bases on the ground at the bottom of slopes are moderately occupied (V: 27%). The addition of lime and organic matter in the form of well-decomposed compost is recommended to improve cocoa tree yields. This study was necessary as it highlighted certain chemical parameters of the soil that are linked to the suboptimal yields of cocoa trees. However, the physical characteristics of the soil in the study area still need to be evaluated in future studies.

Genetics of Coastal Habituation: How Recombinant Inbred Lines Respond to Saline Environments

Vinutna Vinnakota — 2025-12-05

Background: Among all abiotic stresses, salinity is the second most widespread soil problem in rice-growing countries of the world after drought, which continues due to climate change and poor irrigation practices. Rice is highly sensitive to salinity, particularly at the seedling and reproductive stages. Identifying rice genotypes tolerating salinity both at the seedling and at reproductive stages that maintain stable yield in coastal saline soils requires an understanding of genetic variability and trait relationships in terms of direct and indirect effects to develop salt-tolerant rice varieties.

Aim: The aim of this study is to assess phenotypic performance and to estimate genetic variability for salt tolerance in both the seedling and reproductive stages of rice under coastal saline soils.

Methodology: The present study was conducted at the natural coastal saline soils of Acharya N. G Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU)- Agricultural Research Station (ARS), Machilipatnam, during Kharif (June to November) 2024. A field experiment was carried out to evaluate Recombinant Inbred lines (RILs) derived from the cross MCM 109/BRR 0119 for salt tolerance in an Alpha-lattice design. Here, 150 RILs at F5 generation were studied at pH 8.4, and EC 7.2 dSm-1 and data on yield and salinity traits were collected. Salt tolerance was evaluated at the seedling and reproductive stages using the standard evaluation system (SES), with scores from 1 (highly tolerant) to 9 (highly susceptible) based on growth, leaf symptoms, and spikelet sterility. Statistical analysis was performed using PBIB.test, GCV, PCV, heritability and GA as per cent of the mean were drawn from the variability package of R software.

Results: The analysis of variance (ANOVA) for 12 characters attributed significant differences among 150 RILs studied under salinity (P<0.01). The traits ear bearing tillers hill^-1, salinity scoring at reproductive stage, shoot Na⁺/K⁺ ratio at harvesting stage, and grain yield per plant (g) exhibited high estimates of GCV, PCV, heritability and genetic advance as per cent of the mean, suggesting additive gene action. While the traits plant survival (%), plant height (cm), panicle length (cm), number of filled grains per panicle, spikelet fertility % and hundred grain weight (g) exhibited moderate PCV and GCV values with high heritability and genetic advance, indicating substantial genetic variability for effective selection.

Conclusion: Selecting RILs based on variability traits results in the development of salt-tolerant, high-yielding varieties suitable for coastal saline soils. RILs F5 112 and F5 248 can be released as high-yielding saline-tolerant varieties after evaluation in salinity trials and multi-location trials, whereas RILs F5 122 and F5 202 can be registered as genetic stocks for highly tolerant coastal saline conditions.