African
Journals Online
INTERNATIONAL
JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURE AND RURAL
DEVELOPMENT (IJARD)
Volume 3 (2002)
ABSTRACTS
Modeling Selection of
Agro-Technologies: The Case of Legume-Cereal Crop Sequencing in Njoro Division
of Nakuru District, Kenya
G.K. Ithinji1, W.S.K. Wasike2,
L.M. Mumera3 and S. Wangia1
1Department
of Agricultural Economics
2Department
of Economics
3Department
of Agronomy Egerton University P.O. Box 536, Njoro, Kenya
Abstract
Crop rotation
technology involving cereals and legumes is beneficial to the overall crop soil
environment. However, the profitability of the technology varies spatially by
type of farming system. The objective of this study was to assess the economic
viability of legume-cereal crop rotation technologies and their adoption
potential amongst smallholder farmers in Njoro Division of Kenya's Nakuru
District. Input and yield data for screening of legume-cereal technologies were
obtained from the Egerton University Wheat/Chickpea Project. A structured
questionnaire was administered to a representative sample of 45 households to
collect primary farm-level data. Linear programming (LP) models were used to
optimize existing activities and those from legume-cereal agronomic trials.
Based on income differential between optimal and existing farm plans, legume-cereal
crop sequencing would significantly contribute to smallholder farm income.
Profitability of the legume crop was found important in determining the
economically optimum rotation. The study recommends that the legume-maize/wheat
rotation technology is economically viable with chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.), common beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) and dolichos (Lablab purpurius L. (Sweet)) as the legumes. The coupling of
agricultural technology with credit is recommended as the best strategy for
smallholder agricultural development.
Keywords: Legume-cereal rotation,
linear programming, technology adoption
Role of Market Areas in
Enterprise Choice: The Case of the Production of selected Vegetable Crops in
Nakuru District, Kenya
J.K. Lagat1 and H.K. Maritim2
1Department
of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management Egerton University P.O.
Box 536, Njoro, KENYA
E-mail: [email protected]
[email protected]
2Moi
University P.O. Box 3900, Eldoret, KENYA
Abstract
This study sought
to know the problems facing producers with regard to enterprise choices that
would maximize national objectives such as poverty reduction in rural areas,
generation of employment, and generation of foreign exchange. Data was
collected from both vegetable producers and traders. Vegetable producers were
sampled using a two-stage cluster sampling procedure. A sample of 300
respondents was interviewed. The number of traders selected was 20 and this was
the average number frequenting the market. In the analysis, locational price
relationships were determined using spatial price equilibrium models. It
determines the optimum or least cost trading patterns given the distances,
transfer costs and the commodity produced in each region. The commodity market
boundaries were reached when transfer costs per unit per kilometer multiplied
by the distance equals zero when subtracted from the central market price.
Results indicated that vegetable farmers had different cropping patterns from
those recommended by extension agents using gross margins. This was because
they were driven by diverse objectives such as food production; secure market
outlets, among others. The Von Thunen model was modified to incorporate
production costs in addition to transfer costs and then used to propose the
vegetable crops enterprises yielding the highest revenues given the prevailing
conditions at the farm.
Keywords:
Markets, enterprise choice, intensification, Von Thunen model
Maize Productivity and Production Strategies: An Analysis of
Kenyan Smallholder Agriculture
G.A. Obare1,3, S.M. Mwakubo2 and
M.W. Ngigi1
1Department of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness Management,
Egerton University, P.O. Box 536, Njoro, Kenya
2School of Environmental
Studies Moi University, P.O. Box 3900, Eldoret, Kenya
3Corresponding
author: e-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
Against the background of low agricultural productivity and
considering that maize is a major staple food crop in Kenya, smallholder
farmers' maize production strategies and the subsequent productivity
determinants were examined using data from a 1998 farm household survey. Three
modelling strategies were used: A probit model to capture the determinants of
seed varietal choice, and of maize production in pure stand; a tobit to model the
determinants of fertiliser use intensity; and a two-stage least square analysis
to model maize productivity. Results show that likelihood of farmers using
hybrid seed is influenced by the prices of seed and fertiliser, land size and
total household size. However, livestock asset value reduces the likelihood of
hybrid seed use. Land size and hybrid seed increases the likelihood of farmers
adopting pure stand maize production strategy whereas education, prices of
fertiliser and maize, and access cost reduce the likelihood. The intensity of
fertilizer use is determined by market access costs, while family labour and
fertiliser use intensity, and the level of education influence farm household
maize yields.
Income
Distribution among Households in Owerri Agricultural Area of Imo State, Nigeria
P.C. Obasi1 and C.E. Onyenweaku2
1Department
of Agricultural Economics Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
2University
of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
Abstract
The broad objective
of this study was to examine income distribution and estimate the Gini (G)
coefficient of income distribution among households in the Owerri Agricultural
Zone of Imo State, Nigeria. The multi-stage stratified random sampling
technique was used in selecting the sample. The sample size comprised ninety
households who were randomly selected and interviewed using structured
questionnaire. Analysis of the data show that the mean monthly income among
male-headed households is N5117.13, while that among women in
male-headed households is N2800.38. Analysis of the Gini (G) coefficient of
income distribution among male headed households (G=0.306) and that among women
in male headed households (G=0.331) show that there are inequitable
distribution of income in the area. It was suggested that the income Level of
the households could be enhanced through education, income stabilization and
poverty alleviation programmes, and employment guarantee schemes such as the
creation of facilities for agricultural credit to directly benefit the poor and
the more vulnerable groups. It was concluded that there are low-income level,
income inequality and high level of poverty among households in the area.
Agricultural Loan Repayment Performance and
its Determinants in the Rural Credit Markets of Imo State, Nigeria
J. S. Orebiyi
Department of Agricultural Economics &
Extension School of Agriculture and Agricultural Technology Federal University
of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract
The repayment performance of a total sample
of two hundred and twenty (220) rural household agricultural loan beneficiaries
from the rural credit markets in Imo State of Nigeria from a study conducted
between October 1998 and March 1999 show an overall high repayment percentage
of 78.33% with a default rate of about 21.67%. This is adjudged to be very good
when compared with results of similar studies which previously reported
repayment performance rates as low as 1.05% (1990), 27% (1991) and 33.72%
(1991) respectively. Furthermore, this study also reveals that the major
repayment determinants of loan repayment of rural borrowers in the rural credit
markets include; the amount of loan borrowed, age and the literacy level of the
loan beneficiaries as well as the level of loan supervision.
Key words: Loan repayment, Credit markets, loan default, determinants
Promoting Sustainable Extension Approaches: Farmer
Field School (FFS) and its role in sustainable agricultural development in
Africa
C. C. Asiabaka
Department of Agricultural Economics and
Extension Federal University of Technology
P.M.B 1526, Owerri, Nigeria
Email:
[email protected]
Tel: 234 83 234 669
234 803 721
9323
Abstract
This paper
discusses the concept of Farmer Field School and its role in a
multidisciplinary research agenda for sustainable agriculture in Africa. The
FFS as a group learning approach builds knowledge and capacity among farmers to
enable them diagnose their problems, identify solutions and develop plans and
implement them with or without support from outside. The paper suggests that a
multi-disciplinary research agenda that will not only aim at technology
development but will also seek ways of stakeholder participation in technology
development, validation and dissemination. It concludes that this approach will
not only increase agricultural productivity, it will also lead to sustainable
agriculture in Africa.
Contemporary
Trends in Farmer-Based Tree Management and Implications for Agroforestry
Promotion in Southeastern Nigeria
E. C. Eboh1 and
J. C. Okeibunor2
1Department of Agricultural Economics
2Department of Sociology/Anthropology
University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Abstract
This paper examines the
contemporary trends in tree growing and management in the context of changing
farmer livelihood systems in southeastern Nigeria. Data were collected in
1998-99 through a field survey involving interviews with 160 households drawn
from 8 rural communities across the different agroecological and population
pressure zones in southeastern Nigeria. It was observed that the social and
economic roles of trees in farmer livelihood systems have transformed over the
years from a passive to an active state. Trees played more prominent and
critical roles as an integral component of household livelihood strategies
towards food security, cash management, income security and subsistence
supplies. The driving forces behind changing roles of trees include tree
product market dynamics, technological change, greater individualisation of
land tenure, increased pressure on resources and market penetration in the
rural economy. Farmers were found to be responding to the changing contexts of
tree management by intensification of tree management in natural woodlands or
forests, increased tree integration into croplands and home-gardens, changes in
the differentiation of tree management preferences between men and women and
greater individualization of tree ownership and management. The findings
underscore the need for interventions to support local management of trees by
rural farming households in the areas of tree product market development,
agroforestry promotion, farmer access to extension, tree production inputs and
technologies.
Participatory Contact Farmer
Selection: Survey of two Extension Circles in Enugu State, Nigeria
E. M. Igbokwe and O. I. Nwokolobia-Agu
Department of Agricultural Extension
University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Abstract
In the linear model of technology transfer the contact farmer (CF)
is the primary link to farmers. This presupposes that the CF is selected based
on a set of socio-economic categories. Recent criticisms of the performance of
CFs are hinged on flaws in the selection process and advocate a participatory
approach. This paper tested individual and group socio-metric nomination of
potential contact farmers and compared the nominations with the CFs working in
two extension circles. It was shown that only three (3) CFs out of eight (8) in
the study appeared on both the individual and group nominations. It was
recommended that EAs should have a rethink and rely more on the people both
individually and in groups in nominating CFs because only farmers themselves
know whom they interact and consult most frequently.
Role of
Non-Governmental Organizations in Agriculture and Rural Development in Rivers
State, Nigeria
E.C. Matthews-Njoku, M.A.C.A. Odii and
J.O. Odirin
Department
of Agricultural Economics and Extension Federal University of Technology
P.M.B.1526, Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
Available records
show that appreciable amount of resources have been committed by State
Governments in Nigeria towards the transformation of the rural sectors. But the
rural resource poor clientele is dissatisfied with the government’s efforts;
and therefore yearn for more attention. This situation has encouraged good
spirited individuals and organizations to come together to form
Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) in order to make attempt in changing the
life style of the rural dwellers for the better. The formation of NGOs was
identified as an approach towards rural transformation. The organizations are
seen as essential mechanism by which the rural dwellers can participate, while
mobilizing internal resources to improve their living standards. From the
results, financial constraint is a major problem deterring the NGO’s from achieving
their full potential in rural transformation. The masses need to be fully aware
of the gains they will derive by supporting the activities of NGOs. The mass
media should be mobilized to further expose the benefits of NGOs as this will
enhance farmers’ effective participation in NGOs activities in the rural areas.
Identification
of Surface Exposed Elementary Body Antigens of Cowdria ruminantium the
Causative Agent of Cowdriosis in Ruminants
K. A. Chingi1, K.J. Sumption2 and
E.A. Paxton2
1Department
of Animal Health, Egerton University, P.O Box 536, Njoro Kenya
2Centre for
Tropical Veterinary Medicine, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush, Roslin,
Midlothian, EH25 9RG, Scotland UK
Abstract
This
study sought to identify the surface exposed antigenic components of Cowdria
ruminantium elementary body (EB) by biotin labeling, determine
effect of reducing and non-reducing conditions and heat on the mobility of
these antigens and their reactivity to antibodies from immunized animals by
Western blotting. Six surface exposed antigens of the C.
ruminantium EB were identified by biotin labeling with molecular
masses of 21kDa, 28kDa, 31kDa, 62kDa, 74kDa and 115kDa and are therefore outer
membrane proteins. The effect of reducing agents was to increase the number
antigens bands, indicating there may be 2-5 antigenic (polypeptides) on the
surface of the EB. On the other hand, heating did not affect the number of
antigen bands. The identification of six surface exposed antigens of C.
ruminantium and the successful purification of two of these
antigens, makes it possible to use them for immunization so as to determine
which of them induce protective responses.
Keywords:
Cowdria ruminantium, Elementary body, biotin-labelling, surface
antigens, mobilities, ruminants
Preliminary Observations on the Nutritive
Value of Toad Meal in Broiler Starter Diets
B. O. Esonu
Department of Animal Science & Technology, Federal University of
Technology P.M.B. 1526, Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
A 21-day feeding
trial was conducted to determine the nutritive value of toad meal as protein
supplement in broiler starter diets. Live toads were harvested from different
ponds, knocked unconscious with a metal rod, eviscerated to remove the offals
and later smoke-dried at a temperature of 40 ºC for 3 days. They were crushed
and milled to produce toad meal (TM). Toad meal contained 59.06% crude protein,
10.50% either extract, 12.7% total ash, 5.61% crude fibre and 5.24 kcal/g GE.
Three broiler starter diets were formulated such that they contained toad meal
(TM) at 0%, 5% and 10% respectively. Three hundred, 14-day old Hubbard broiler
chicks were divided into three groups of hundred birds each and randomly
assigned to the three treatment diets in a completely randomized design (CRD).
Each treatment was replicated four times, giving 25 birds per replicate. Data
were collected on feed intake, body weight gain, fed conversion ratio and
internal organ analysis. There was no significant (P<0.05) difference in
feed intake among the groups, but body weight gain became significantly
(P<0.05) higher at 10% toad meal (TM) dietary level. There was significant
difference (P<0.05) in feed conversion ratio (FCR) among the groups. Birds
on 10% dietary level recorded the best FCR of 2.66. The internal organs of the
birds of three groups were not affected (P>0.05) by the treatment.
Cost-benefit analysis showed that incorporation of toad meal (TM) at 5% and 10%
dietary levels reduced feed cost per kg and this reflected in the cost of
producing one kg of meat. Feed cost savings were 4.37% and 8.13% for 5% and 10%
dietary levels respectively. The results of this study suggest that toad meal
(TM) could be incorporated in young broiler chick diets up to 10% level with
improved results. No evidence of any toxicity or poisoning was observed but the
effect on prolonged feeding needs to be evaluated.
Key words: Toad meal (TM), protein
supplement, broilers.
Substitution Value of toasted
Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) seed meal
for Soybean meal and Maize in Broiler Starter Diets
E. B. Etuk and A. B. I.
Udedibie
Department of Animal Science and
Technology, Federal University of Technology, P. M. B. 1526, Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
One
hundred and eighty 7-day old broilers were used in a 28-day feeding trial to
determine the substitution value of toasted pigeon pea seeds meal (TPSM) for
soybean meal and maize in boiler starter diet. The brown coat coloured pigeon
pea seeds were toasted at 100oC for 15minutes and milled. The
inclusion levels of TPSM were 0, 20, 30, 40 and 50% replacing 40, 60, 80 and
100% of soybean meal and 20, 30, 40 and 50% of maize, respectively in the diet.
Data on weight gain, feed intake were recorded and used to calculate the feed
conversion ratio. Results showed that birds on 0% TPSM (control) performed
significantly (P<0.05) better than birds on TPSM diet. Toasted pigeon pea
seed meal progressively depressed weight gain with increasing dietary level.
Feed conversion ratio also decreased significantly (P<0.05) with increasing
dietary level of TPSM except at 40% dietary level.
Keywords: Pigeon pea, soybean meal, maize, broiler diet and toasting
Determination
of Optimal Replacement Level of Whole Maize with Maize Offal-Brewers Dried
Grain Mixture for Weaner Pigs
M.C. Ugwuene
College of Animal Science and Animal
Health, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Umuahia, Nigeria
Abstract
An experiment
was conducted to determine optimal level(s) of replacement of maize offal –
Brewers dried grain mixture (MO - BDG) for whole maize in diets for weaner
pigs. Twenty crossbred (Large White x Landrace) barrows with average initial
weight of 19.86 kg were fed five experimental diets formulated in a way that
maize offal – Brewers dried grain mixture replaced whole maize at 0, 25, 50, 75
and 100 percent levels respectively. Each of the treatment diets was fed to
four pigs having two replicates with two pigs per replicate. The final weight
gain and feed conversion ratio of the groups on 25% and 50% replacement levels
were not significantly different (P>0.05) from 0% replacement (control) but
were significantly greater than (P<0.05) replacement at 75% and 100%
respectively. Feed intake of animals fed with diets of 25, 50, 75 and 100
percent replacement levels was significantly higher (P<0.05) than that of 0%
replacement. Except for feed cost at 25% level of replacement, feed cost and
cost/weight gain of the group on 0% replacement was significantly greater than
(P<0.05) their values for the groups on 25, 50, 75 and 100% respectively.
The results of this trial suggest that the optimal dietary replacement level is
50%.
Enhancement of Sexual Libido and Sperm Production in
Rabbits using Clomiphene citrate (Clomid®)
U. Herbert1, M.U. Iloeje1,
U.K. Oke2, S.U. Ndubueze1 and A.N. Ezeobi1
1Department of Animal Science &
Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
Email: [email protected]
2College of Animal Sciences and Animal Health,
Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Nigeria
Abstract
Two trials
were conducted to investigate the efficacy of clomiphene citrate to enhance
libido and sperm production in rabbits. In Trial I, two groups of seven adult
crossbred New Zealand type rabbits each were assigned to either 6.25 mg (CD1)
or 12.5 mg (CD2) clomiphene citrate as Clomid® (Bruno Farmaceutici S.p.A.,
Rome) daily for 5 days. Another group of 7 bucks was given normal saline during
the same period to serve as control (CON). Semen was collected from the bucks
once weekly for 12 weeks using an artificial vagina. Blood testosterone was
sampled three times during the study - at the beginning, midway and during the
last week of the study. In Trial II, two breeds (Chinchilla and Dutch-belted)
of six adult rabbits each were used. Three rabbits from each breed were
assigned to 6.25mg or 12.50mg of clomiphene citrate as Clomid® daily
for 5 days. All the solutions were administered as oral douches. Semen was
collected from the animals and two aliquots were taken from each ejaculate, oneanalysed immediately after collection and the other three hours later for
motility. In Trial I, the results indicate that sperm concentration was higher
(P<0.05) in the treated animals than in the control. Although total sperm
per ejaculate was similar (P>0.05) between the control and the CD2 groups, the
value for the CD1 group was higher (P<0.05) than that of the control. Semen
volume, sperm motility, proportion of abnormal sperm as well as serum
testosterone levels did not differ (P>0.05) among the groups. The results
obtained in Trial II showed that sperm concentration was higher (P<0.05) in
animals treated with 6.25mg of the drug than their counterparts treated with
12.50mg of the drug. The Chinchilla bucks were of higher (P<0.05) sperm
concentration than their Dutch-belted counterparts. It was evident from the
results that semen from the Chinchilla breed survived the harsh tropical
environment than their Dutch-belted counterparts. These results indicate that
the administration of 6.25mg of clomiphene citrate would improve sperm
production more in the Chinchilla breed of rabbits than in their Dutch-belted
counterparts without deleterious effects on sperm morphology and physiology.
Influence of Photoinduction on Egg Quality traits and
Histodifferentiation of the Magnum in the Pearl Guinea Fowl
U. K. Oke1, K. Joseph2 and K. L. Ayorinde2
1College
of Animal Science and Health, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,
Umudike, Umuahia, Abia State
2Department of Animal Production, University of
Ilorin, Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
Abstract
The influence
of photoinduction on egg quality traits and histodifferentiation of the magnum
in 360, 20 weeks old pearl guinea fowl were investigated by exposing the birds
to three photoregimen – Natural daylight (NDL); restricted to 8 hours of
daylight per day for 8 weeks plus stimulatory light for 16 hours per day for 4
weeks (RSL); natural daylight for 8 weeks plus stimulatory light for 16 hours
per day for 4 weeks (SL). Birds on the RSL treatment laid smaller (P>0.05)
eggs than did the birds on NDL and SL probably on account of their earlier age
at first egg. Shell weight in all the groups increased slightly (P>0.05)
until 30-34 weeks of age and thereafter stayed constant throughout the laying
period with its percentage relative to egg weight decreasing with advancing age.
There were non-significant differences (P>0.05) in albumen height, yolk
index, egg index and Haugh unit values. However, lower (P>0.05) average
Haugh unit values during the laying cycle was recorded for the RSL birds when
compared with the NDL and SL birds. Mean scores for histodifferentiation in the
developing magnum as index of egg production and development in the female
guinea fowl were highest in the RSL (8.22), followed by the SL (5.45) and NDL
(3.45). This suggests that photoinduction helps advance the rate of maturation
of the organ.
Keywords: Photoinduction, egg quality, Histodifferentiation of the
magnum, guinea fowl.
Efficacy of
different Neem (Azadirachta indica) parts in protecting susceptible
soybean cultivar against parasitic nematode Meloidogyne
javanica
C.M. Agu
Department of Crop Science and Soil Science
Technology, School of Agric. and Agricultural Technology, Federal University of
Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
Abstract
Powdered neem
seeds, leaves and bark at the rates of 0.00, 1.04, 1.56, 2.08, 2.60 and 3.12
tons/ha were incorporated into Meloidogyne javanica
infested soil in which susceptible Soybean cultivar (Samsoy – 1) was grown.
Increase in the rate of each neem part produced corresponding decrease in
galling incidence and nodule counts. Neem seed powder at the rates of 2.60 and
3.12 tons/ha was most effective in decreasing galling incidence compared with
neem leaf powder and neem bark powder at these respective rates. Although mean
leaf area and mean total dry matter of soybean were higher at the tested rates
than at the zero rates in all cases, the seed powder gave the best results.
Effect of planting dates on the Yield and Control of major
Insect Pests of Soybean (Glycine max (L) Merrill) in Southeastern
Nigeria
A. Anyim
Abia
State Agricultural Development Programme, PMB 7235, Umuahia, Abia State,
Nigeria
Abstract
The
effect of planting dates on the yield and control of major insect pests of
soybean were studied in the 1995 and 1996 planting seasons at Umudike,
Southeastern Nigeria. The incidence of the defoliators, Monolepta duplicata Sahl and Ootheca mutabilis Linnaeus in all the planting
dates were earlier (2 weeks after planting, 2WAP) up to 8WAP. However, the
stink bugs, Nezara
viridula
Linnaeus and Aspavia
armigera
Fabricius were found infesting soybean pods from 8WAP to 14 WAP. The peak
populations of the defoliators and stinkbugs were recorded at 4WAP and 10WAP,
respectively. The crop planted on August 20 had a significantly (P<0.05)
higher incidence of the defoliators and stinkbugs than in other planting dates,
with soybean planted on July 21 being the least infested. Seed yield was
significantly (P<0.05) higher on soybean planted on July 21 than in other
planting dates. Hence, seed yield reductions of 30.3% and 28.8% were obtained
from crops planted on August 20, when compared with the crop planted on July
21, in 1995 and 1996, respectively. This indicates that soybean could be
planted in July, especially within the second and third week to reduce the
level of yield loss mainly caused by stinkbugs and defoliators.
Comparison of Storage Stability of three Yam Species in a
Humid Environment
A. E. Ibe1, M.
A. Ibe2, C. T. Tom1 and, E. N. Nwokeji1
1Department of Crop/Soil Science Technology, Federal
University of Technology, Owerri, Nigeria
2Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension
Management, Rivers State University of Science & Technology, Port Harcourt,
Nigeria
Abstract
The
chemical composition of three yam species (Dioscorea
rotundata Poir, D.
esculenta (Lour) Burk and D.
bulbiferaL.) was estimated as a measure of
storage stability and susceptibility/tolerance to Penicillium
oxilicum. Free fatty acid (FFA) and peroxide value (PV) were
highest in Dioscorea bulbiferafollowed by D. rotundata
and least in D. esculenta indicating
a better storage stability in D. esculenta.
The biochemical functions of the tubers, estimated as the quantity of Krebs
Cycle acids, indicated the highest quantity in D.
bulbiferafollowed by D.
rotundata and least in D.
esculenta. The biochemical functions were lower 3 months after
harvesting indicating the initiation of tuber dormancy and higher 6 months
after harvesting which coincided with the initiation of tuber sprouting, thus,
showing the increased metabolic activities during sprouting. However, the
quantity of ascorbic acid was highest in D.
esculenta followed by D.
rotundataand least in D.
bulbifera. The extent of tuber rot by Penicillium
oxilicum confirmed that D.
esculentawas the most tolerant of the
species and therefore most stable in storage, followed by D.
rotundataand least is D.
bulbifera. The differential amounts of the chemicals could be
an indicator for screening yam species for tolerance/susceptibility to rot
organisms and thus for estimating their storage stability.Keywords: Yam species, rot organism, storage stability and yam storage
Effects of Packaging Materials and Storage Temperature on
the Quality and Post-Harvest life of Star Apple (Chrysophyllum albidium
G. Hon.)
M.I. Nwufo1,3, J.C.
Obiefuna1 and , E.N.T. Akobundu2,4
1Department of Crop
Science and Technology
2Department of Food Science and Technology, Federal
University of Technology, P.M.B 1526, Owerri, Nigeria
3Correspondng Author
4Current Address: Department of Food Science &
Technology, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, Umuahia, Nigeria
Abstract
Fruits of the 'nwannu'
cultivar of star apple (Chysophyllum albidium G. Ron) were dipped in
Benlate, Captaf and KMnO4, seal packaged in polyethylene or paper bags and
examined for quality after 14 days of storage at 10°C and 28°C. Star apples
packaged in low density polyethylene bags and stored at 10°C were of better
quality than fruits packaged in either polyethylene or paper bags and stored at
28°C. Fruits treated with Captaf or Benlate retained freshness after 14 days
storage in either polyethylene or paper bags of 10°C. The decay free percentage
and percentage marketable fruits were significantly higher at 10°C than at
28°C. There were no significant differences in the protein, fibre and ash contents
of stored fruits but the total sugar contents were higher in fruits stored at
28°C that at 10°C. Fruits stored at 10°C in both packaging materials contained
more ascorbic acid and lipid contents than those stored at 28°C.
Keywords: Star apple, Chrysophyllum albidium,
post-harvest life, Benlate, Captaf, quality, storage.
Evaluation of short duration ICRISAT pigeon pea cultivars in mixtures
with FARZ-7 maize under the derived savannah conditions of Nigeria
C. T. Tom1 and J. E. Asiegbu2
1Department
of Crop Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri,
Nigeria
2Department
of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria
Abstract
Three ICRISAT short duration pigeon pea cultivars namely: ICPL84023,
ICPL151, and ICPL87, were evaluated in intercropping system with FARZ-7 maize
for growth, grain yield, and intercropping benefits at the University of
Nigeria Teaching and Research Farm in the early cropping season of 1993.
Intercropping any of the short duration pigeon pea cultivars with FARZ-7 maize
was more beneficial than planting maize or pigeon pea sole. Although
intercropping depressed grain yield of short duration pigeon pea by 20 to 58%
of its sole, in terms of land equivalent ratio (LER), intercropping benefits
ranged from 1.33 to 1.77, the highest being with ICPL87 + maize intercrop.
ICPL151 and ICPL87 were bigger plants in intercrop with higher relative
crowding coefficients (RCC) than ICPL84023. But ICPL151 and ICPL84023 were able
to compete better with maize than ICPL87. The yield advantage observed with
ICPL87 + maize was due to the extra yield of maize in that mixture. Maize was
in all cases the dominant component of the mixture having higher relative
crowding coefficient, and competition coefficient values than the pigeon pea
cultivars. ICPL151 and ICPL84023 would be recommended for intercropping with
maize because of their higher yield contribution to the overall yield, as the
legume grain is of premium value compared with maize grain.
Acute Toxicity of
Cypermethrin (A Pyrethroid Pesticide) to Post-Fingerlings of the African
Mudfish Clarias gariepinus (Burch, 1822)
U.U. Gabriel1 and O.S. Kparobo
Department of Fisheries, Rivers University of Science
and Technology, P.M. B. 5080, Port Harcourt, Nigeria
1Corresponding
author: [email protected]om
Abstract
Post-fingerlings
of African mudfish, Clarias gariepinus
(Burch, 1822), (mean weight 12.6+0.8g SEM, mean; total length, 10.4+1.1cm
SEM) were exposed to different concentrations (0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.10 and 0.20
ppm) of cypermethrin in a static renewal bioassay to determine the 96hrLC50.
Fish treated with cypermethrin showed abnormal behavior characterised by
restlessness, uncoordinated movements, loss of equilibrium, gulping of air,
period of quiescence and then death. The sub-lethal responses of the fish to
the pesticide were more pronounced on opercular ventilation (y=64.45+115.6x)
than on tail beat frequency (y=442+84.64x). The 96hrLC50 and safe
concentration were 0.034 and 0.0034 respectively, indicating that the pesticide
is highly toxic to this non-target fish.
Effects of
high Oryzanol Rice Bran oil on Free Radical Formation and Oxidation of Whole
Milk Powder
J.N. Nanua1, J.U. McGregor2, and S.C.Grace3
1,4Dept. of Dairy and Food Sci. & Tech., Egerton
University, Njoro, Kenya.
2Dept. of Food Science and Human Nutrition, Clemson
University, Clemson, USA. 3Biodynamics Institute, Louisiana State
University, Baton Rouge, USA.
4Corresponding author: E-mail: [email protected]
Tel. (254)
733-791-897.
Abstract
The
purpose of this study was to assess the influence of high oryzanol rice bran
oil (RBO) on the oxidation of whole milk powder (WMP). Whole milk powder was
manufactured from whole milk, which had been fortified with RBO at 0.1% and
0.2% w/w, while control WMP was made from milk without added RBO. The WMP
samples were stored at 45 oC and aw of 0.31 for 35 days.
Free radicals were determined by electron spin resonance (ESR) spectroscopy while
lipid oxidation was determined by thiobarbituric acid reactive substances
(TBARS) at 0, 10, 20, 25, 30 and 35 days of storage. The free radicals were
significantly lower (P<0.05) for WMP fortified with 0.2 RBO than for control
WMP. RBO fortified WMP had a lower rate of oxidation than control WMP during
storage. The TBARS for control reached a peak at 25 days and decreased on
further storage while that for RBO fortified WMP did not peak during storage
for 35 days and was lower than RBO fortified WMP. The RBO at 0.1% level did not
significantly influence the organoleptic properties of WMP. The RBO reduced
free radical concentration and oxidation of WMP and therefore has the potential
for use as an antioxidant in the manufacture of WMP.
Keywords: Whole milk powder, Rice bran oil, Oxidation, TBARS
electron spin resonance spectroscopy
Efficacy of three organic
Compounds as Antimould Agents in Bread under Humid Tropical Weather
Uzomah, A.
Department
Of Food Science and Technology, Federal University of Technology, Owerri,
Nigeria
Abstract
The efficacy of three organic compounds - sodium acetate (SA),
ascorbic acid (AA) and citric acid (CA) as well as combinations of SA/AA and
CA/AA as antimould agents in bread when stored at ambient temperature (280C)
under humid tropical weather was investigated. SA, CA and AA were added as sole
agents at 0.08, 0.09, 0.10, 0.20, 0.30, 0.40, 0.50 and 0.60% rates of
inclusions. The combined forms consisted of a fixed concentration of AA (0.30%)
added to the varied concentration of SA (SA/AA) and CA (CA/AA). A 0.00%
inclusion was prepared to serve as control. A mean shelf life of 5 days was
observed for the control samples, while the values for samples containing SA,
CA and AA at 0.30% concentration were 13, 11 and 9 days respectively. The
effect of SA/AA and CA/AA at 0.20% concentration gave a mean shelf life of 9
days each. The results obtained showed that shelf life of sample with SA and CA
was significantly different (P<0.05) from that of AA, SA/AA and CA/AA. A
decrease in specific loaf volume (SLV) was observed for all the samples except
samples containing AA. SA and CA gave a decrease of 50% and 28% respectively in
SLV at 0.30% concentration, while AA showed an increase of 12% in SLV at the
same concentration. These results suggest that SA is an effective anti-mould
agent in bread, but its efficacy was not enhanced by combination with AA. AA
functioned more as a flour improver than as an anti-mould agent. The decrease
in loaf volume observed when SA or CA was used singly was considerably improved
when this compound was combined with AA.
Soil Characteristics of Crusted outside
and Subcanopy Areas of four Dominant Shrubs in the Negev Desert
T. Akuja1,2,
K.G. Godonu1, T. Kraaij1, M. Mwangi1, I.
Oguzoglu1and E. Zaady1
Email: [email protected]
1Blaustein
Institute for Desert Research, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Sede Boker,
84990, Israel
2Department of Agronomy, Egerton University,
P.O. Box, 536, Njoro, Kenya
Abstract
It has been
proposed that there are functional source-sink relationships between two patch
types (microbiotic crusts and shrubs) in drylands. Crust patches supply runoff
water and resources which shrub patches accumulate, thereby becoming loci of
productivity and diversity. This study compared some soil characteristics under
shrubs and outside to determine how these soil parameters relate to the
source-sink model. Four shrubs dominant in the area namely: Zygophyllum dumosum, Hammada scoparia, Atriplex leucocladaandThymelea hirsuta were investigated. The results on
compaction, salinity, pH, water holding capacity, respiration and organic
carbon supported the model. The crust:shrub ratio is crucial for the
functioning and sustained productivity of the system.
Keywords: Soil characteristics; shrub
subcanopy; crust; sink-source, Negev desert
|