The study was to characterise the diameter distribution structure of the Ofutet Teak Plantation, evaluate fitted probability distribution functions for describing and predicting DBH, and assess models for projecting key stand attributes.This study was carried out at Dr Ofutet’s Teak Plantation in Ogada II, Obubra Urban, in the Obubra Local Area of Cross River State, Nigeria. The plantation was established between 1998 and 2006 with a total land area of 28 hectares. Data were generated from five compartments established between 1998 and 2006, covering an area of 28 hectares. Six sample plots (20 m × 20 m each) were randomly laid out in each compartment. In each sample plot, tree diameters and heights were measured. A total of 1,253 trees were measured for DBH (cm) and height (m). Tree diameter distribution structure and models were defined. Parameter estimates for the models were generated using Curve Expert Professional software (version 2.7.3). At tree level, 18.7 cm, 9.4 m and 0.127 m3 were estimated as the mean DBH, height and volume, respectively, while at stand level, 12.3 m, 1,044/ha, 31.02 m2/ha and 132.772 m3 were obtained for Hd, N, G and V, respectively. Diameter distribution was fairly positively skewed (0.492), with 98% of the trees having DBHequal to or less than 30 cm. The Generalised Gumbel distribution (rated as very good), with a MAD of 0.83%, was recommended for predicting DBH in the plantation. The selected models for the projection of stand attributes were logarithmically transformed Hd against the reciprocal of age; number of stems (N) against age; logarithmically transformed G against age; and logarithmically transformed V against reciprocal age, basal area (G) and dominant height (Hd) with R2(60.2, 81.2, 83.9 and 78.2%), SEE (0.027, 14.953, 0.021 and 0.014), AICC (-215.516, 162.367, -231.636 and -249.903) and Curve Expert score (598, 770, 795 and 739) for Hd , N, G and V, respectively. The selected stand attribute models provided a good fit, as the observed and predicted values of the attributes were not significantly different (p > 0.05).
Aim: This study aimed to quantify the socio-economic importance of the Bloc Kébé research forest, East Cameroon) to riparian livelihoods by assessing non-timber forest products (NTFP) collection patterns, use types, income generation, and perceived dependency for food security and health. Study Design: A cross-sectional household survey was conducted across six villages at varying distances (0.5–7.66 km) from the forest boundary, with stratified proportional sampling yielding 86 households. Methodology: Semi-structured questionnaires captured collection, use type (subsistence/commercial/both), annual income (FCFA), and perceived food and health dependency (Likert 1–5) over a 12-month recall period. Analyses included mixed-effects logistic regression (GEE), multinomial logistic regression, Kruskal-Wallis with Dunn's post-hoc tests, Cumulative Link Mixed Models, Spearman correlations, and two-way ANOVA. Results: Overall NTFP collection rate was 74%, commercialization rate 59%, and mean annual income 12,097 ± 17,773 FCFA. Distance to forest was the dominant predictor of collection probability (OR = 0.52 per km, p < 0.001), income, and both food (β = –0.15, p < 0.001) and health dependency. The closest village outperformed the farthest across all metrics (collection: 94% vs. 71%; commercialization: 82% vs. 64%; income: 22,200 vs. 5,563 FCFA). Irvingia gabonensis was 12.55 times more likely commercialized than used for subsistence alone (p = 0.018); Strychnos toxifera showed dominant health dependency (3.98 vs. 1.34, d = –2.55). Five of six focal species had significantly greater food than health dependency (d = 0.77–1.79, p < 0.001). Income, collection, and commercialization were tightly coupled (ρ = 0.686–0.868, p < 0.001), but interspecific income differences were non-significant (χ²(4) = 7.52, p = 0.111). Significant village-level spatial heterogeneity emerged for Termitomyces spp., Cola spp., and Trichoscypha abut. Conclusion: Forest dependence is high, multidimensional, species-specific, and spatially structured by distance, with proximity-driven inequalities in income and food-health outcomes. Conservation zoning must integrate these differentiated dependencies.
Food insecurity remains a persistent challenge in Eswatini’s Shiselweni and Lubombo regions, where households face chronic poverty, climate vulnerability, and limited access to diverse and nutritious foods. Conditional cash transfer (CCT) programmes have emerged as a promising policy tool for alleviating food insecurity by smoothing consumption and enabling dietary improvements among vulnerable populations. This study assesses the effect of the CCT programme on household food expenditure demand in the Shiselweni and Lubombo regions. A stratified random sample of 209 households was surveyed across six Tinkhundla constituencies. The Linear Approximate Almost Ideal Demand System (LA/AIDS), estimated using a seemingly unrelated regression (SUR) model, was applied to analyse household expenditure demand for eight food groups. The results show that cereals and tubers accounted for 49.5% of total food expenditure, indicating the dominance of staple foods among vulnerable households. Meat was identified as a luxury good (1.09), while dairy (0.57) and legumes (0.88) were classified as necessities. Participation in the CCT programme was associated with dietary improvement, as evidenced by increased budget shares for protein-rich foods. Older and more educated household heads allocated smaller budget shares to meat and larger shares to legumes and dairy products, while female-headed households spent relatively more on vegetables. The results suggest that additional household resources supported greater expenditure on both staple and nutrient-rich foods, indicating emerging dietary diversification among beneficiary households. However, the continued dominance of cereals and tubers underscores persistent resource constraints. Enhancing the nutritional impact of CCT programmes requires transfer values that keep pace with food-price inflation and the integration of targeted nutrition education. Future studies should employ panel data and detailed price information to estimate Marshallian and Hicksian demand elasticities and provide stronger evidence of the long-term effects of cash transfers on household food demand.
Medicinal plants remain central to traditional healthcare systems, especially in rural African communities like South Sudan, where forest resources support both livelihoods and primary medical needs. This study documents and compares the diversity of forest plant species and their traditional medicinal uses among local communities across different regions of South Sudan. Employing a descriptive ethnobotanical approach, data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires, focus group discussions, and open- and closed-ended interviews with knowledgeable elderly informants, who possess extensive experience and deep familiarity with medicinal plants, their various parts, and preparation methods in the study area. The study also drew upon a comprehensive review of relevant peer- reviewed journals and previous ethnobotanical studies. Results revealed that a substantial proportion of the local population maintains rich knowledge of medicinal forest plants – including leaves, roots, stems, and branches, which are used to treat a wide range of ailments such as typhoid fever, malaria, respiratory tract infections, abdominal pain and colic, toothache, rheumatism, and general fevers. The study further highlights a noticeable decline in this indigenous knowledge among the elderly. This knowledge gap is largely attributed to weak intergenerational transmission, as youth prioritize daily livelihoods and urban migration in search of better economic opportunities. Additionally, the limited presence of educational and research institutions has hindered laboratory investigations and scientific development of these plants, reducing their potential integration into broader healthcare systems. The findings underscore the urgent need to document and scientifically evaluate indigenous knowledge to ensure the sustainable use of forest medicinal plants and to promote complementarity between traditional practices and modern healthcare.
Land use and land cover change (LULCC) is a major driver of environmental transformation, particularly in fragile mountainous ecosystems where increasing human pressures accelerate ecological degradation. In the Bamboutos Mountains of Cameroon, the Nduh Nkemlepè watershed has experienced significant landscape changes, raising concerns about the sustainability of natural resources. This study aims to analyse the spatio-temporal dynamics of land use and assess their implications for ecological degradation between 2000 and 2024. An analytical and diachronic methodological approach was adopted, based on cartographic analysis that integrated remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Satellite images from Landsat ETM and Land Change Modeler, with a spatial resolution of 30 m, were used and projected to WGS 84, UTM Zone 32N. Image processing involved mosaicking, enhancement, geometric correction, and supervised classification using the Maximum Likelihood method based on the LCCS system. Field surveys were conducted to validate classification accuracy. Spatial dynamics were assessed through statistical analysis of land use changes, including rates of progression, regression, and stability, using the formula: Tv (%) = [(S2/S1) − 1] × 100. The results reveal a substantial transformation of the watershed landscape, characterised by a marked expansion of cultivated land (from 25.15% in 2000 to 60.75% in 2024) and built-up areas (from 2.25% to 10.49%), alongside a sharp decline in Eucalyptus gallery forests and grasslands. Bare soils and rocky outcrops also increased, indicating progressive land degradation. The ecological index decreased from 0.6897 in 2000 to 0.4548 in 2024, reflecting deterioration in environmental quality. These findings highlight increasing anthropogenic pressure associated with ecosystem degradation, biodiversity loss, and reduced ecosystem services. The study recommends adopting sustainable land management practices, including agroforestry, improved land-use planning, ecological restoration, and strengthened institutional governance, to support long-term environmental sustainability.
Litter decomposition is a fundamental pathway through which organic matter and nutrients enter the soil, thereby regulating microbial activity, soil fertility, and ecosystem productivity. Litter quality, defined by the chemical, physical, and biological attributes of plant residues, plays a central role in controlling decomposition rates and nutrient cycling processes. This review synthesises current knowledge on how variations in litter quality influence microbial communities, enzymatic activity, and the cycling of carbon (C), nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and other essential nutrients in soil ecosystems. Key chemical indicators such as carbon-to-nitrogen (C: N) ratio, lignin content, polyphenols, and elemental stoichiometry strongly determine microbial accessibility, decomposition pathways, and the balance between nutrient mineralisation and immobilisation. Physical traits, including leaf toughness, thickness, cuticle development, and silica content, further regulate microbial colonisation and faunal fragmentation. Microbial functional groups respond differentially to litter quality, with bacteria dominating the decomposition of labile substrates and fungi driving the breakdown of recalcitrant compounds. Interactions among litter quality, microbial activity, soil fauna, and environmental factors generate complex feedbacks that shape soil organic matter dynamics and nutrient availability. The review also highlights the roles of litter mixing, priming effects, and management practices in modifying decomposition outcomes. Understanding litter quality–microbe interactions provides a critical foundation for sustainable soil management, improved nutrient use efficiency, and enhanced ecosystem resilience under changing land-use and climatic conditions.
Rural farming households in northern Nigeria increasingly use livelihood diversification to manage climate variability, market instability, rising production costs and declining agricultural productivity. However, empirical evidence on the determinants of diversification and its welfare implications remains limited for Kano State. This study examined the determinants of livelihood diversification and its effects on household income and food security among rural farmers in Kano State, Nigeria. Guided by the Sustainable Livelihood Framework, primary data were collected from 450 smallholder farmers selected through a multistage sampling procedure across seven Local Government Areas. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, the Livelihood Security Index, the Simpson Index of Diversification, Ordinary Least Squares regression, binary logistic regression and social network analysis. The findings showed a moderate level of livelihood diversification, concentrated mainly in farm-based activities, with a mean Livelihood Security Index of 0.47. The OLS model indicated that livelihood diversification had a positive and significant effect on household income and food security (unstandardised β = 0.421, standardised β = 0.125, p < 0.001; R² = 0.754). Livelihood security (β = 0.315, p < 0.001), education, monthly income and remittances positively influenced diversification, whereas vocational training and extension contact had significant negative effects. Binary logistic regression identified livelihood security as the strongest predictor of diversification, while social capital variables, including cooperative participation and remittances, positively influenced livelihood strategies. Major constraints were limited access to credit (73.1%), high start-up costs, rising input prices, pest and disease incidence, and market instability. The study concludes that livelihood diversification is associated with improved household welfare and food security, while livelihood security remains a central driver of diversification. Policies should strengthen rural finance, asset accumulation and diversification-oriented extension services to support resilient rural livelihoods.
This study assessed the technical efficiency of potato production and its determinants in Bhaktapur district, Nepal. Data was collected from 160 potato farmers randomly selected from two municipalities in Bhaktapur district; 80 from each municipality. Technical efficiency was estimated using a stochastic frontier model, while influencing factors were identified through a Tobit model. The study found a mean technical efficiency of 93.5%, ranging from 68.7% to 98.8%, with 43.75% of farmers achieving 95 to 100% efficiency. Potato seed, farmyard manure, chemical fertilizer (di-ammonium phosphate), labor, and hours of mini-tiller used positively influenced potato output (yield) in the stochastic frontier production function. The significant elements of technical efficiency were farming experience, secondary occupations of household members, contact with extension agents, social organization memberships, cultivation area share, and training received for potato production. The results suggest that the existing 6.5% inefficiency can be reduced by improving both socio-economic factors and the use of key production inputs. These findings provide useful evidence for policymakers to design interventions that strengthen extension services, ensure timely access to quality inputs, promote farmer training, and encourage participation in social organizations, which together can enhance productivity and improve the efficiency of potato production in the study area.
Soil quality of an area is a dynamic entity. Soil has its own capacity to function for the purpose of crop production and allied activities. Among the various properties of soil, chemical properties of soil, is a vital one. In the context of farmers’ profit maximization and better utilization of land, it is imperative to know the soil chemical properties of land by the farmers. The aim of this study is to assess and analyze the spatial distribution of soil chemical properties in the study area to support effective land management, improve soil quality, and enhance sustainable crop production and farmers’ livelihoods. In the present study area, the soil chemical properties are unevenly distributed after examining the individual properties of soil. The spatial distribution of properties is so uneven at the individual level that every land unit needs to be properly monitored and takes measures. The chemical properties of soil in the study area are ranges from low to medium category. However, the chemical properties of soil and farmers' standard of living can be improved for a brighter future through the scientific use of land management systems and appropriate land utilization for crop production and allied activities.
Tribal communities in India depend substantially on forest resources for subsistence and income, while forests remain important for ecological stability and local livelihoods. This study examines the institutional performance and policy relevance of microfinance- and Self-Help Group (SHG)-linked forest-based livelihood initiatives, with particular reference to the Van Dhan Yojana. Using secondary data from TRIFED, government publications, and selected scholarly sources, the paper analyses fund allocation, operational status, and state-level variation in Van Dhan Vikas Kendras (VDVKs) as of 28 February 2025. The descriptive findings indicate that Minor Forest Produce (MFP) remains an important source of livelihood for forest-dependent communities and that SHG-based value addition may improve income opportunities and market participation. State-level comparisons show considerable variation in implementation, suggesting that institutional capacity and governance play an important role in programme performance. Pearson correlation analysis for states with complete data shows a moderate positive but statistically non-significant association between tribal population concentration and operational VDVKs (r = 0.586, p = 0.127; n = 8). Comparative discussion of community forestry experiences in Nepal, Guatemala, and the Philippines further highlights the relevance of local participation, tenure arrangements, and financial support in shaping forest-based development strategies. The study concludes that microfinance and community-based organisations have policy potential to support forest-based livelihoods, but stronger primary and causal evidence is needed to assess their direct effects on forest conservation and forest-rights outcomes.
The study assessed farmers’ knowledge and attitudes to tea production in Cross River State. A Purposive sampling technique was used to select Cross River State. One hundred and nine respondents were randomly selected from Akampa, Boki, Etian, Ikom, Etung, Obubra and Yakurr Local Government Areas. A structured questionnaire was used. The data collected were analysed using descriptive statistics. The results revealed that the majority of the respondents (91.74%) had not heard about the tea crop, (92.66%) were not aware of tea cultivation, and (95.41%) of the farmers had not seen the tea crop. Similarly, most (90.83%) of the farmers were not aware of the different varieties of tea crops, while all (100%) of the farmers did not recognise that tea is a perennial crop, and 98.17% of the farmers do not identify tea as a commodity crop. Likewise, 96.33% of the farmers do not understand that the tea crop can thrive in Cross River State. The study concluded that the tea crop is new, and there is a wide knowledge gap in the value chain in the study area. Therefore, it’s imperative to introduce the tea crop value chain to these farmers to benefit from the numerous advantages the tea crop can offer.
Bio-inoculants comprising beneficial microorganisms such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), and their consortia offer a sustainable nature-based solution for enhancing plant-soil synergy under abiotic stress conditions. These microorganisms employ multiple mechanisms to bolster crop resilience against drought, salinity, heavy metals, and temperature extremes. Key mechanisms include enhanced nutrient mobilization through nitrogen fixation, phosphorus solubilization, potassium mobilization, and siderophore-mediated iron chelation that improve nutrient availability under stress. Phytohormone modulation via microbial production of indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), gibberellins, and cytokinins modifies root architecture and promotes growth, while ACC deaminase activity reduces stress-induced ethylene levels, delaying senescence and maintaining root development. Osmolyte accumulation including proline, trehalose, and glycine betaine maintains cellular turgor and protects membrane integrity, while activation of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, APX, GR) scavenges reactive oxygen species, reducing oxidative damage. Microbial consortia consistently outperform single strains through synergistic interactions and functional complementarity. Field applications demonstrate significant yield improvements under stress: 32.9% biomass increase in salt-stressed rice, 36% shoot dry weight enhancement in metal-contaminated soils, and successful large-scale adoption in Brazil where 86% of soybean growers use inoculants. Transitioning to microbiome-aware farming systems requires integrated research, supportive policies, and farmer engagement to realize the full potential of bio-inoculants for climate-resilient agriculture.
Contamination of heavy metals (Hg, Pb, As, Cr, Cd and Cu) in agricultural landscapes is a major threat locally, regionally and globally because it affects the structural and functional properties of the farm environment. In this study, heavy metals were assessed in diverse organs, liver, kidney, feather, skin and bone of weaver birds (Ploceus cucullatus) trapped from six sites in Benue State, Northeast and Northwest agricultural belts using a mist net. The organs were digested and subjected to Flame Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer (AAS) to determine the level of heavy metals bioaccumulation. The heavy metal concentrations differ with locations and among the organ and out of five organs (liver, kidney, bone, skin, and feathers), bone, skin and feather contained the highest concentration of heavy metals. In Gboko, bone stored Hg (5.240±0.012ppm), As, (2.458±0.005ppm), skin stored Hg (1.273±0.010ppm), As (0.445±0.005ppm), feather stored Hg (3.683±0.0019ppm), As(1.828±0.005ppm). In Makurdi, bone stored Hg (3.333±0.006ppm), As, (1.545±0.009ppm), skin stored Hg (1.158±0.006ppm), As (0.318±0.005ppm), feather stored Hg (2.713±0.006ppm), As, (1.515±0.009ppm) In Gwer, bone stored Hg(2.313±0.008), As(1.330±0.007ppm), skin stored Hg (1.768±0.010ppm), As(0.240±0.004ppm), father stored Hg (2.313±0.008ppm), As (1.318±0.005ppm). Some of the contamination pathways can be demonstrated based on correlation analyses due to antagonistic relationships (Pb, Cu), while as co-accumulation clusters (Cu, Hg, As). Random Forest classification of the organ-metal profiles provided 100% accuracy in site identification, indicating that each location had its own distinctive pollution fingerprints. The research shows that P. cucullatus species is a good bio-indicator of heavy-metal pollution and offers spatially relevant baseline information in assessing the impacts on environmental planning, pollution reduction, wildlife conservation, and conservation research in the agricultural belts of Benue State.
Forage productivity and quality in ruminant nutrition depend on factors such as organic manure application and harvesting age, necessitating evaluation of their combined effects on Brachiaria ruziziensis yield and morphology.The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of different organic manure (poultry manure, cattle manure and pig manure) and harvesting age (8, 12 and 16 weeks after planting) on the morphological parameters, yield and physical silage quality of Brachiaria ruziziensis. The experiment was conducted in Pasture unit of the College of Animal Science Teaching and Research farm, Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University Makurdi, Benue State, Nigeria. The research was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) in a 4 x 3 factorial arrangement, 4 different manure application (no manure application, poultry manure, cattle manure and pig manure) and 3 harvesting age (8, 12 and 16 weeks after planting). Data on morphological parameters (plant height, leaf length, leaf width and leaf to stem ration) and dry matter yield of Brachiaria ruziziensis were subjected to analysis of variance using SPSS version 20 at 95% probability level. Previous studies largely focused on the effect of manure on forage growth and yield but limited attention has been given to how nutrient sources affect the physical characteristics and preservation quality of silage. This study therefore expands existing knowledge by linking organic nutrient management not only to forage productivity but also to post-harvest feed quality. Forages harvested at 12 and 16WAP was ensiled for 21 days after which it was opened and evaluated, the physical examinations employ a subjective analysis and checked for odor, structure, color, pH and moisture content of the silage. The silage quality class according to the physical properties of the silage was determined by the DLG (Deutsche Landwirtschafts-Gesellschaft) score. All morphological parameters and DMY were not affected (P>0.05) by manure type while plant height and DMY increased (P<0.05) as harvesting age progressed. However, the interaction effect of manure type and harvesting age showed that forages established with poultry and cattle manure and harvested at 12 WAP gave a higher (P<0.05) DMY compared to those established with pig manure and harvested at the same period. Manure type adopted in this study did not interfere with silage production process as they all gave pasture suitable substrate for successful fermentation resulting in good silage. Silage harvested at 16 WAP was rated very good silage, while that from 12 WAP was rated good.
The growing demand for bioactive compounds underscores the need to evolve technologies that allow for enhanced productivity. This study was set up to investigate the use of elicitors in enhancing the antioxidant profile of Artemisia annua. Six-week-old Artemisia annua seedlings were transplanted into 8*10-inch grow bags, containing a 1:1:1 ratio of sandy loam topsoil, groundnut husk, and goat droppings. The design of the experiment was a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The work was carried out between April and June, 2025 with average night and daytime temperature range of 23 to 26 ⁰C and 37 to 42 ⁰C, respectively. Two elicitors, Moringa leaf extract (E1) and ascorbic acid (E2), and water (E0) as the control were foliar applied at six (6) WAT and whole plant dried samples of A. annua were analyzed to ascertain the effect of the treatments on total phenolic acid content (TPC), total flavonoid (TFC), and ferric reducing antioxidant power (FRAP). Data generated were analyzed using Anova and significant means separated with Duncan multiple range test. The yield of TPC, TFC, as well as antioxidant activity, was significantly (P=0.05) depressed by the application of the elicitors. Moringa leaf extracts and ascorbic acid depressed flavonoid content by 58.32 and 65.48 %, and FRAP by 48.65 and 48.19 %, respectively, over the control. We therefore conclude that moringa leaf extracts and ascorbic acid may not qualify as candidates for use as elicitors in the enhancement of TPC, TFC, and FRAP in A. annua production.
Urban trees provide important ecosystem services, including carbon sequestration, air pollution mitigation, temperature regulation and biodiversity conservation, and they can support public health and urban climate adaptation. In rapidly urbanising cities such as Kano Metropolis, urban trees represent important green infrastructure for climate change mitigation and environmental management. This study assessed biomass accumulation, carbon storage and CO2 sequestration potential of urban tree species in Kano Metropolis, northern Nigeria. All tree species with diameter at breast height (DBH) >= 10 cm within the sampled locations were identified, and DBH, height, diameters at the base, middle and top, wood density, above-ground biomass, below-ground biomass and total biomass were measured or estimated. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. A total of 1,144 individual trees belonging to 31 species and 15 families, including native and exotic species, were recorded. Azadirachta indica had the highest frequency (468 individuals), whereas Ficus platyphylla, Balanites aegyptiaca and Acacia seyal recorded one individual each. Acacia seyal recorded the highest biomass (396.62 kg), volume (524.63 m3), carbon stock (198.31 kg) and CO2 sequestration (727.80 kg), whereas Hura crepitans recorded the lowest biomass (0.86 kg), volume (1.14 m3), carbon stock (0.22 kg) and CO2 sequestration (1.59 kg). The findings indicate species-level variation in biomass accumulation and carbon sequestration, highlighting the need to enhance species diversity and expand urban green spaces in Kano Metropolis.
The Iresa-Apa toposequence in the Southern Guinea Savanna of Nigeria exhibits a well-defined drainage catena where landscape position significantly influences soil properties. The soils are moderately to strongly developed, with distinct horizons ranging from dark, organic-rich surface layers (5YR–10YR) to yellowish-brown and orange subsoils enriched with iron oxides. Redoximorphic features, including Fe–Mn concretions and mottling in the B and BC horizons, indicate seasonal water saturation, particularly in lower slope positions. Particle size distribution shows clear topographic variation. The summit exhibits coarse-textured subsoil with high sand content (up to 86.3%), while the upper, middle, and lower slopes are dominated by clay (>60%), indicating downslope clay accumulation and advanced weathering. Increasing clay content with depth and the presence of clay cutans confirm active illuviation and argillic horizon development. Soil structure transitions from friable granular surface layers to firm blocky subsurface horizons, restricting permeability and root penetration. Soil pH is moderately acidic (5.0–5.5) and decreases slightly with depth due to leaching. Organic carbon is highest in surface horizons (3.5–4.0%) but declines sharply downward, while total nitrogen remains low. Effective cation exchange capacity is generally low (<2.0 cmol kg⁻¹). Available phosphorus decreases with depth due to fixation by Fe and Al oxides. In conclusion, while the Iresa-apa soils possess moderate inherent fertility, their productivity is limited by subsoil compaction and impeded drainage. Sustainable use requires topography-specific management, emphasizing strategic subsoiling and moisture-tolerant cropping systems to navigate the seasonal hydrological constraints.
The increasing dependence on chemical fertilizers in Nigeria has resulted in soil degradation, nutrient depletion, and environmental, necessitating sustainable alternatives like microbial biofertilizers. This study evaluated the effects of bacterial isolates obtained from the root nodules of selected leguminous plants on the growth of maize (Zea mays L.), contributing to sustainable agriculture and ensuring a healthier environment for future generations. Thirteen bacterial isolates were obtained from root nodules of beans, groundnut, soybean, sensitive plant and butterfly pea, using selective media including Yeast Extract Mannitol Agar, Ashby’s Mannitol Agar, Nitrogen-Free Malate Agar, and Nitrogen-Free BG-11 Agar. The isolates were morphologically and biochemically characterized, and formulated into liquid biofertilizers applied at 5.00ml and 10.00ml volumes to maize seedlings in a completely randomized pot experiment with untreated plants as control. Growth parameters including plant height, number of leaves, leaf area, internode length, and number of cobs were measured at two-week intervals up to 14 weeks. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and treatment means were separated using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test at 5% significant level. The results showed significant differences among treatments for all parameters measured. At 14 weeks, T3 (5.00ml) recorded the highest plant height (104.43 ± 25.06 cm), number of leaves (13.67 ± 2.05), leaf area (291.71 ± 33.12 cm²), internode length (5.37 ± 0.48 cm) and number of cobs (1.67 ± 0.40), all significantly exceeding the control values. The findings demonstrate that bacterial isolates from legume root nodules significantly enhanced maize growth and reproductive performance compared to the untreated control. However, molecular identification using 16SrRNA sequencing was not conducted and is recommended for accurate taxonomic confirmation The superior performance of the 5.00ml treatments, particularly T3, demonstrates the potential of indigenous bacterial biofertilizers as effective, eco-friendly inputs for sustainable maize production and reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers.
The Diffa region is an area of livestock farming par excellence. Unfortunately, it is confronted by a chronic fodder deficit in recent decades. It is important to find the mechanism to mitigate the consequences of this fodder deficit. It is in this framework that it was useful to conduct a study on the fodder cultivation of a legume. The objective of this study is to assess the production parameters of four varieties of Cajanus cajan in order to identify the most efficient. The four varieties used in the experiment are the white (Va1), dark red (Va2), light red (Va3) and cream (Va4) varieties. To do this, the Latin square experimental design was put in place, with four blocks and 16 elementary plots. Data were collected on 5 plants in each of the plots. The data analysis revealed the rate of germination was 95%, 96%, 98% and 100% for varieties Va3, Va1, Va2 and Va4, respectively. The flowering stage was 92.60±5.83, 91.90±3.29, 90.50±6.22 and 90.50±3.59 Days After Sowing (DAS) respectively for Va4, Va1, Va2 and Va3. As for the maturity stage, it was 123.90±12.35, 125.23±8.96, 126.94±0.47 and 128.53±0.47 DAS respectively for Va1, Va2, Va3 and Va4. The number of pods was 188.75±69.16, 146.30±130.02, 111.15±58.73 and 102.95±55.91 respectively for Va4, Va1, Va3 and Va2. As for the lengths of the pods, they were 46.65±2.82, 44.40±2.96, 43.11±3.59 and 38.91±2.80 respectively for Va1, Va4, Va3 and Va2. The dry matter productivities were 4519.30±2227.02, 4011.49±2479.09, 3687.80±2100.81 and 3348.47±1618.93 kg of dry matter per hectare (kg.DM.ha-1) respectively for Va4, Va2, Va1 and Va3. The Va4 variety had the best performance in green phytomass production, dry phytomass. It had the largest number of pods, which were relatively long.
Cassava (Manihot esculenta) stems are essential planting materials, and their physical and frictional properties are important for the practical design of planting, conveying and handling equipment. This study experimentally evaluated four cassava varieties, TMS 4(2) 1425, TME 419, TMS 30572 and TMS 30555, obtained from the Teaching and Research Farm of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Nigeria. Freshly harvested 12-month-old stems were cut into 250 mm stakes for frictional tests, while stem dimensions were assessed using 300 mm samples. Measurements were taken on days 1, 3 and 5 after harvest under dry-season conditions. A locally fabricated measuring device was used to determine the angle of friction, coefficient of friction, bulk friction coefficient and coefficient of rolling resistance on wood, stainless steel and mild steel surfaces using fabric and plastic ropes. Stem moisture content, diameter, number of nodes and density were also determined. Stem density decreased after harvest in all varieties, ranging from 328.07 to 391.29 kg/m3. TMS 4(2) 1425 recorded the highest density, mean number of nodes per 300 mm and mean stem diameter, whereas TME 419 had the lowest density. The coefficient of friction ranged from 0.348 to 0.579 for the fabric rope and from 0.344 to 0.581 for the plastic rope. Bulk friction coefficient ranged from 0.061 to 2.057, while rolling resistance ranged from 4.076 to 7.923. Frictional responses varied with variety, contact surface, rope material and moisture condition. The results provide experimentally derived parameters that can support the design and adjustment of cassava stem handling and planting equipment.
