African Journals Online
Nigerian Agricultural Journal

Volume 33, 2002
CONTENTS

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 1-9

INFLATION AND CHANGES IN OUTPUT AND CONSUMER PRICES OF FOOD IN NIGERIA

OBASI O. UKOHA* AND M.O. NYONG**Department of Agricultural Economics*Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike,P.M.B 7267, Umuahia - NIGERIADepartment of Economics**University of Calabar, Calabar.

ABSTRACT

The main objective of this study is to identify relationship between inflation, food production and changes in consumer prices of food in Nigeria. This study was carried out in the context of a macro-econometric model, which recognizes the inter-relationship among inflation and agricultural production. The study covered the period from 1970 to 1964 and data were obtained mainly from official sources. The study reveals that the major factors in the Nigerian inflationary process are mainly structural and manifest as cost-push pressures in the economy. The identified factors are lagging food supplies, persistent budget deficits, foreign exchange constraints, and increases in import prices as well as increases in consumer price of food. A combination of some aspects of exchange rate, fiscal, monetary and pricing policies including measures, which would boost food production, were recommended as a policy package for attaining simultaneously, price stability and growth of agricultural output in the country

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 10-16

ANALYSIS OF WORLD COCOA PRODUCTION
TRENDS AND THEIR PRODUCTION SHARE COEFFICIENTS (1975-1996)

S.O. ABANG AND H. M. NDIFONDepartment of Agricultural Economics and ExtensionUniversity of Calabar

ABSTRACT

World cocoa production trend is influenced by a number of domestic policies, which in turn impact on permanent production shares of producing countries. Overtime, this trend will affect these countries foreign earnings capacities. It is on this basis, that this study attempts to analyze cocoa production trends as well as determining the sources of the world cocoa production growth trends between 1975 and 1996. A linear regression function, of the terminal and initial year production shares was first estimated to obtain the B₁ coefficient which was further decomposed into its correlation coefficient and standard deviation. The results show that on the average, the world cocoa production trend and the contributions of the seven leading producers have all been on the increase. The permanent cocoa production share trends on a country-by-country basis show slightly different results. For instance, while the permanent production share for Ivory Coast was on the increase, those of Brazil and Ghana were on the decline. From the decomposed coefficient, the overall result shows that the large (major) producers had expanded their production shares among the leading producers and the new cocoa entrants as well as the relatively small ones. The countries, which tended to lose shares among the major producers, were Nigeria and Cameroun even though the trend for Nigeria is changing positively. The sources of world cocoa growth production over the period were from the new small and very large producing countries. In the area of market control, the study found the cocoa export market to be competitive because even the very large cocoa producing countries as a group would be unable to foreclose or influence the world prices.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 17-22

A STRUCTURAL ANALYSIS OF YAM TRADE FLOWS INTO ABIA STATE OF NIGERIA

F. O. ANUEBUNWANATIONAL ROOT CROPS RESEARCH INSTITUTEUMUDIKE, P.M.B 7006ABIA STATE, NIGERIA

ABSTRACT

A structural analysis of yam trade flow into Abia State using total value of purchases as index of measurement of the market share was conducted in Abia State in 2000/2001. A total of 309 yam distributors categorized into wholesalers (82) and retailers (227) were randomly selected using a multi-stage sampling method. Structured interview schedule was used in the collection of marketing information from the distributors. Descriptive statistics and Gini coefficient were used in data analysis. The northern states of Nigeria contributed 67.97% of total yams supplied to Abia State while the Southern States 32.03% of which Abia accounted for 2.7%. There was insufficiency, inadequacy and uneven distribution of physical marketing facilities. The seller concentration was higher in the wholesale than in the retail yam markets with Gini coefficient of 0.6354 and 0.5959 respectively. The difference may have resulted from differences in capital base, entrepreneurial talents, business acumen and collusive behaviour in market conduct. The yam market is monopolistically competitive.

Keywords: Trade flow, yams, Structural analysis

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 23-31

CONSTRAINTS IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF CROP PROTECTION EXTENSION SERVICE IN SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

AGU, C.M., J.C. OBIEFUNA AND N.N. OTIDepartment of Crop and Soil Science TechnologySchool of Agriculture and Agricultural TechnologyFederal University of Technology Owerri

ABSTRACT

Implementation of crop protection extension service in South Eastern Nigeria is mainly by the extension services sub-programme of the States' Agricultural Development Programme (ADP). This they do using the Training and Visit (T&V) extension system. Reports however, indicate general dissatisfaction and ineffectiveness in achieving crop protection targets. Specific constraint factors identified as limiting the implementation of crop protection extension service in the South Eastern Nigerian include: poor management of research information, poor criteria in input distribution, excessive workload on the extension agents and inadequate number of qualified crop protectionists as extension workers. Measures recommended as necessary in improving crop protection extension service include: adequate funding and employment of more qualified research personnel for proper sourcing and management of research information; basing distribution of needed inputs on full time farming criterion, involving more crop protectionists in extension work, removal of non-extension function from extension, provision of logistic supports and periodic staff training on crop protection extension methodology, communication, programme planning and social system.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 32-39

Declining Yield of Oil Palm: A case study of Four Oil Palm
Plantations in Nigeria and Cameroun

DANIEL S. UDOMDepartment of Agricultural Economics & ExtensionUniversity of Calabar

ABSTRACT

This paper investigates the achievable yield and extent of oil palm yield decline over time in four large oil palm plantations in Nigeria and Cameroon. In Nigeria the highest achieved palm oil yield was 2.64 tonnes per hectare for 9-year-old palms in one of the plantations studied. By the eighteenth year, the yield had declined to 1.38 tonnes of palm oil per hectare. The Cameroon Development Corporation has achieved a yield of 20 tonnes of fresh fruit bunches (equivalent to 4.20 tonnes of palm oil) per hectare in Ndian. This yield level has, under proper management, been recently achieved in a Nigerian oil palm plantation. It is hoped that this yield level will be sustained over a long period of time. Drastic falling off in yield is due to declining soil fertility and improper management of plantations and oil mills. The need for increased investment in oil palm research and adoption of improved oil palm management practices is emphasized.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 40-45

Seed Yam Production with Minitubers

J.E.G. Ikeorgu and M.C. IgbokweNational Root Crops Research Institute Umudike, PMB 7006 Umuahia 440001 Nigeria

ABSTRACT

The performance of various sizes of minitubers of both D. alata (UM680) and D. rotundata (Obioturugo and Abi) were evaluated for size and yield of seed yams between 1998 and 2000. Minitubers are whole but small (30-100g) tubers that farmers could simply plant directly into their farms, as is the case for seed potatoes. D. alata minitubers performed better than D. rotundata minitubers. D. rotundata minitubers weighing 10-25g produced 90% seed yams (100-500g) while the 26-50g and 51-75g minitubers produced 36% and 68% seed yams (200-1000g) respectively. Seed yams weighing 200-1000g are preferred by most farmers. From this experiment, minitubers weighing 10-25g gave seed yam yield that compared in size with those from 25g cut minisetts. Only 20% of seed yams weighing 200-1000g were produced from 10-25g minitubers of D. rotundata while D. alata gave 36.64% seed yams from 10-25g minitubers. Minitubers of 51-100g are hereby recommended as these give over 60% seed yams of 200-1000g, which are preferred by most farmers.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 46-49

EFFECT OF ASH AND GOAT DUNG MANURE ON LEAF NUTRIENTS COMPOSITION, GROWTH AND YIELD OF AMARANTHUS

OJENIYI, S. O. AND K. B. ADEJOBI**Department of Crop Production*Federal, University of Technology, Akure.

ABSTRACT

Three field experiments were conducted to examine the separate and combined effects of wood ash and goat dung manure on leaf nutrients composition, growth and yield of Amaranthus cruentus at Akure, Southwest Nigeria. The treatments compared were: no treatment, 2t/ha goat dung, 2t/ha ash + 2t/ha dung, 2t/ha ash + 4t/ha dung, 2t/ha ash + 6t/ha dung, and 2t/ha ash + 8t/ha dung. Application of 2t/ha ash, 8t/ha goat dung, and combined application of ash and different quantities of goat dung to soil increased leaf N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents significantly compared with no treatment. Separate application of 8t/ha dung, and combined application of 2t/ha ash with each of 2, 4, 6 and 8t/ha dung increased number and yield of leaves, leaf area and number of branches significantly compared with no treatment. Ash and goat dung complement each other as to their effects on nutrients contents, growth and yield of amaranthus. Addition of 2t/ha ash to 8t/ha dung increased stem weight and leaf yield by 68 and 54% respectively. Combined application of 2t/ha ash and 8t/ha dung gave 513 and 342% increase in stem weight and leaf yield respectively compared with no treatment.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 50-59

EVALUATION OF NEW CASSAVA GENOTYPES FOR INTERCROPPING IN A CASSAVA – BASED SYSTEM OF SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA.

OLOJEDE A.O1; O.U. OKEREKE2; AND J.E.G. IKEORGU1.1. National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike. P M B 7006 Umuahia, Nigeria. E-mail:[email protected]. Department of Crop Science, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Twenty-one cassava genotypes were screened for their intercrop performance at Umudike between 1997 and 1998 cropping seasons. The 2-year yield data were subjected to Rank-Summation Index (RSI) and Simple Regression (SR) Techniques with the view to determine the performance of the new cassava genotypes under intercrop and identify suitable cassava genotypes for maize or maize/melon intercrops. Yields of cassava under monoculture were also correlated with their yields under mix-culture.

From the RSI, 10 Cassava genotypes were found compatible with maize and melon. A linear function described the relationship between cassava fresh root yield and maize yield with a significant coefficient of determination ((R²) = 0.889 and correlation coefficient ® of 0.94. Significant correlation was also established between sole cassava and intercropped cassava yields (r = 0.52), while a yield depression of between 20 and 60% was recorded in the cassava for the 2 years. Fitting a bi-plot, four distinct groups emerged thus; Group 1 – optimum performance of cassava and maize (12 genotypes), Group II – low yield of cassava and high yield of maize (5 genotypes), Group III – High yield of cassava and low yield of maize (3 genotypes) and Group IV – low yield of both cassava and maize (1 genotype). Most genotypes identified as being compatible for intercropping by the 2 techniques were similar except in few cases.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 60-67

PERFORMANCE OF POTATO VARIETIES RAISED FROM TRUE POTATO SEED IN JOS PLATEAU, NIGERIA.

J. C. OKONKWO and A. C. CHIBUZONational Root Crops Research Institute Irish Potato Programme, Kuru, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Seedlings of true potato seeds from seven cultivars (RC 767-2, Br. 63-18, Kondor, VC 785-2 Raslin Ruaka, VC 801-4 and CIP 387705-18), and seed tubers from Nicola variety were evaluated for tuber yield and resistance to pests and diseases at Kuru, Jos Plateau. The trials were carried out in the 1997 and 1998 rainy seasons. The result showed that average seed germination was 81.1% for the TPS genotypes, with CIP 387705-18, Kondor and RC 767-2 performing best in decreasing order. Field establishment was 96.4% for Nicola, 85.3% for Br. 63-18 and 51.4% for VC 785-2. Diseases and pests attacks were low in all the potato genotypes, but for Kondor with high bacterial wilt. Tuber yield and % ware tubers were higher in Nicola than in other TPS genotypes. Tuber yield of RC 767-2 and % ware tubers were better than in other genotypes established from true potato seed. Nicola had 100% uniformity in tuber shape and skin colour. Only RC 767-2 and CIP 387705-18 had 100% uniformity in skin colour. The study showed that it is possible to produce healthy seed tubers from true potato seed under Jos Plateau, Nigeria conditions. Among the TPS genotypes studied CIP 387705-18 and RC 767-2 are recommended because of their uniformity in skin colour, low disease and pest attacks, high tuber yield with high percentage of large size tubers.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 68-78

INFLUENCE OF PEELSETT LENGTH
ON YIELD OF MINITUBERS

NDUBUISI IGWILOInstitute of Agricultural Research and Development,University of Port Harcourt

ABSTRACT

Five lengths of peelsett pieces, 1.0 cm, 1.5 cm, 2.0 cm, 3.0 cm and 4.0 cm of two yam varieties, Obiaoturugo (D. rotundata Poir) and Um 680 (D. alata L.) were compared in 1998 and 1999. Peelsett pieces 3 cm long (6.7g) at 150,000 stands/ha gave the highest tuber yield similar to the tuber yield of minisetts at the same seed-rate
(1 tonne/ha). Of the tuber sizes yielded by Obiaoturugo, 78.4% were between 20g and 100g; of Um 680, all the tubers were above 20g with some above 200g. In Obiaoturugo, the percentage sprouting of the 3 cm pieces were 78.2% and 98.5% in Um 680. It is envisaged that minitubers might replace the minisetts (25g) in mass multiplication of seed-yams.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 76-82

EVALUATION OF SESAME (Sesamum indicum L) GENOTYPES FOR YIELD STABILITY AND SELECTION IN NIGERIA

G.A.IWO, A.A. IDOWO AND A.A. OCHIGBONational Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi,P.M.B. 8, Bida, Niger State.

ABSTRACT

After years of preliminary and advanced yield trials, seven advanced beniseed genotypes were selected for on-station evaluation at NCRI, Badeggi in 1996 and 1997. Four genotypes identified as promising lines were selected with the farmers' variety (Yandev-55) for multi-locational on-farm evaluation in six states. The states included Benue, Nasarawa, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and Taraba. The result obtained showed that two genotypes 530-6-1 and E-8 gave the highest yield across the locations. Also the linear responses of the genotypes indicated E-8 to have average response to environments with b value greater than unity. This shows that E-8 has the potential to grow well under favourable condition. Other genotypes 530-6-1, Type 4 (1), Goza-25 and the check (Yandev 55) have b values less than Unity, which was an indication of better performance under poor environmental condition. For the stability parameters, the mean deviation from regression coefficient also proved the four genotypes to have average stability and general adaptability. The yield rank-sum over locations indicated no consistency among the genotypes, which suggested lack of specific adaptation to a particular environment among the tested genotypes.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 83-87

PERFORMANCE OF YAM MINITUBER/MAIZE INTERCROP IN THE HUMID TROPICS OF SOUTHEAST NIGERIA

J. E. G. IKEORGUNational Root Crops Research Institute, UmudikeP.M.B. 7006 Umuahia, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

Trials were conducted in Umudike in 2000 and 2001 to determine the response of yam minituber from D. alata (UM 680) and D. rotundata (Obioturugo) to intercropping pressure, using maize as the component crop. Four sizes of minitubers (25g; 50g; 75g and 100g) were intercropped with a full season maize (TZSR-Y) in randomized complete blocks design replicated three times. The maize component depressed minituber yield by only 5% but improved the calorie productivity of the minituber/maize system by 33%, thus indicating that maize is a compatible and productive intercrop of yam minitubers. Farmers can therefore intercrop yam minitubers with maize.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 88-96

THE STATUS AND PROSPECTS OF FOOD IRRADIATION, AS AN ALTERNATIVE FOOD PRESERVATION TECHNOLOGY, IN NIGERIA

CHINYERE I. IWUOHADepartment of Food Science and TechnologyFederal University of Technology, OwerriP.M.B. 1526, Owerri, Nigeria.

ABSTRACT

This paper discusses how food is irradiated, status of application, and factors influencing Food Irradiating Technology (FIT). Reports have shown that Nigerian FIT has not gone beyond the laboratory demonstration level, due to some techno-economic and political limitations. It has been applied at doses of 0.05 –5.0kGy to up to 8 foodstuffs to achieve sprout inhibition and extension (yams and onions), control of moldiness (coca beans, cowpeas and smoked-dried fish) and decontamination (ground red pepper, groundnuts and soyabeans). Nigeria has made preliminary installation and running cost estimates, and has solicited technical assistance from international authorities in this area. The next positive step may usher her into full commercial FTI activities.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 97-101

PRODUCTION OF GINGER-BLENDED PINEAPPLE DRINK, “PINEGY”; IMPLICATION FOR YOUTH AND RURAL EMPLOYMENT

Aniedu, C; E. Oti, and L. E. F. Amambo,Post Harvest Technology ProgrammeNational Root Crops Research InstituteUmudike, Umuahia Nigeria

ABSTRACT

This study looks into the possibility of developing ginger-blended pineapple drink. To this effect, peeled pineapple and ginger were blended in the proportion of 50g/50g, 75g/25g, 83. 5g/16.5g, 87.5g /12.5g and 90g/10g (fresh weight basis) to produce ginger blended pineapple drink, `Pinegy' samples, designated as samples A, B, C, D, and E respectively. Firstly, a trained five (5)-man panel of judges was used to test for colour, pineapple flavour, pungency and overall acceptability. From the results, samples C, D, and E were selected for further evaluation using `Pinenaco', sample DA as a control while samples DB, DC and DD were `Pinegy' earlier samples C, D, and E, respectively. The second evaluation was carried out with a trained ten (10) – man panel drawn from the workers of National Root Crops Research Institute, Umudike. Also, the proximate analysis of ginger-blended pineapple drink `Pinegy' was carried out in order to determine their food quality. The result showed that the ginger-blended pineapple drink `Pinegy' was richer than `Pinenaco' in nutrient content. Also, the result of the sensory tests showed that in overall acceptability, sample DD was most acceptable followed by the control (sampled DA), although the whole samples were acceptable in various degrees. This therefore, shows that production of ginger-blended pineapple drink `Pinegy' is possible. Also with locally available raw materials and simple methods of preparation, `Pinegy' production can serve as an employment for the youth and rural dwellers.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 102-108

CORRELATIONS AND CORRELATED RESPONSES IN SUGARCANE Saccharum officianum L.)

M. N. ISHAQ1, C.A. ECHEKWU2, P.E. OLORUNJU2AND U.S. GUPTA2

1. National Cereals Research Institute, Badeggi, P.M.B. 8, Bida Niger State.2. Department of Plant Science, Institute of Agricultural Research,Samaru, Zaria, Kaduna State, Nigeria

SUMMARY/ABSTRACT.

Studies were carried out for two years at two locations to determine the inter character relationships between various quantitative traits of sugarcane, using eight genetically diversified sugarcane clones. The experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design with three replications. Performance data were used to obtain correlations between ten agronomic and seven quality traits in sugarcane. Correlation coefficients obtained between cane yield and all the important yield components were positive and significant except for stalk diameter and leaf width. The correlation coefficients revealed that stalk weight, stalk height, number of stalks per stoll, leaf area, juice and commercial cane sugar percentages were the major traits contributing to cane and sugar yield. Stem diameter, an important component of yield, is positively correlated with stalk weight, stalk height and leaf area. Path Coefficient analysis which unlike correlation, specifies the causes of the association and their importance, showed that stalk weight, stalk height, number of stalks per stool, had high direct effect on cane yield. Stalk diameter was indirectly related to its weight and height. Estimation of expected correlated response of cane yield when components are selected individually, showed that selection for stalk weight gave the highest increase in correlation responses. This was followed by number of stalks per stool.

Niger Agric. J. 33. (2002): 109-118

Relationship Between Measured and Calculated Yield of Cassava and Yam Under Peasant Farm Management System in Soils of Ibadan, Nigeria

Aiboni, V.U.Department of Soil Science and Agricultural MechanizationUniversity of Agriculture Abeokuta

ABSTRACT

The relationship between measured and calculated yield of yam and cassava under peasant farm management in the soils of Ibadan area was investigated. Precambrian basement complex rocks underlie the area. A site heavily cultivated by peasant farmers and sufficiently represents the geology, soils, vegetation and land use pattern of Ibadan was selected for the study. Forty-five plots under cassava and yam cultivation were selected to cover the twelve series in the area. The soils have texture ranging from loamy sand t sandy clay with weak crumb and granular structure in the surface layer. The highly concretionary and gravelly surface layers of Gambari and low soil series constitute a problem for the tillage implements. The soils classified as Alfisols, Entisols and Inceptisols have high fertility indices 42.84 to 81.99 and very low to high productivity indices 3.77 to 60.91. Soil productivity was limited mainly by soil depth, drainage and surface stoniness. Crop yields were predicted from the relationship between the yield to productivity index using the measure yield value of one of the soils. Measured cassava yield fro 6.3 to 11.5t/ha. While calculated yield range from 2.69 to 11.5t/ha. Measured yam yield range from 1.2 to 5.Ot/ha while calculated yield range from 2.85 to 6.4 t/ha. Peasant farmers have been able to cultivate these soils by tilling with hoes machetes and making heaps for yams and cassava. Results indicate positive correlation between measured and cultivated yield r =0.81 for yam and 0.77 for cassava with good predictive values of Y =2.51 + 0.71X and Y = 1.36 + 0.74X for yam and cassava respectively. Chi-squared analysis showed the independence between measured and calculated yield.

Niger Agric. J. 33. (2002): 119-127

Management of Striga Hermonthica (Del.) Benth in Upland Rice: Influence of Upland Rice Varieties and
Rates of Nitrogen Fertilizer

M. A. Adagba1, S. T. O. Lagoke2 and A. Usman11. National Cereals Research Institute Badeggi, P. M. B, 8, Bida, Nigeria2. Department of Crop Production University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

The effects of different rates of Nitrogen (0, 30, 60, 90 and 120 kg N/ha) on the reaction of five (FARO 46, FARO 11, FARO 45, FARO 48 and FARO 38) and seven (FARO 46, FARO 11, FARO 45, FARO 48, FARO 38, FARO 40 and WAB 56-50) varieties of upland rice were studied in field trials conducted in both the dry and wet seasons of 1997 and 1998. The trials ware laid up in split plot design with three replications. The upland rice varieties formed the main plot treatments while the nitrogen levels were the subplot treatments. FARO 40 and WAB 56-50 did not support Striga emergence, and thus exhibited resistance to Striga hermonthica. FARO 48, a variety normally susceptible to S. hermonthica, supported delayed and low Striga emergence, exhibiting enhanced resistance. In spite of support for early and high Striga infestation, FARO 11 exhibited tolerance. All other varieties FARO 45, FARO 46 and FARO 38 exhibited susceptibility to S. hermonthica. In the study, the application of 90 and 120kg N/ha delayed and reduced Striga emergence on the crop, induced low crop reaction score which resulted into grain yield that were the maximum or significantly higher than the least. The lower rates of nitrogen (30 and 60 kg N/ha), which caused similar Striga incidence however, resulted in significantly lower yield than 90 and 120 Kg N/ha. The interaction of upland rice varieties and nitrogen was significant on the number of days to first Striga emergence, crop reaction syndrome and number of days to 50% flowering of rice, indicating that host plant resistance alone may also not be adequate for Striga management in upland rice.

Niger Agric. J. 33. (2002): 128-135

AN ASSESSMENT OF THE NUTRITIVE VALUE OF BROWSED PLANTS IN MAKURDI, NIGERIA

J.A. IBEAWUCHI, 1 F.O. AHAMEFULE1 AND J. E. OCHE21Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike Nigeria2University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria

ABSTRACT

Twenty-five plant species were identified as useful cattle feedstuff during peak dry season in Makurdi, Benue State. Leguminous species accounted for over 48% of the browse. The browsed plants were classified on the basis of frequency of browsing into those heavily, moderately or occasionally browsed by cattle and analysed for chemical constituents. The samples showed high nutritive potentials with crude protein values of 14% in 92% of the samples. The lowest crude protein value was in Mucuna poggei (10.9%) while the highest was in Lonchocarpus cyanescens (31.7%). The heavily browsed group was superior to the other groups in protein content (21.4%) and in calculated in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) (50.6%). The IVOMD values ranged from 32.7 to 52.4%. The relationship between IVOMD and crude protein was negative and non-significant (r = - 0.22). Generally, the mineral content was high with the heavily browsed species containing higher calcium (1.52%) and phosphorus levels (0.35%) than either the moderately (1.22% Ca and 0.22% P) or the occasionally (1.15% Ca and 0.32% P) browsed groups. The vital role of browse as a feedstuff for cattle especially in the dry season and the need to propagate them in plantations in the Middle Belt zone were emphasized.

Niger Agric. J. 33 (2002): 136-13

SHORT COMMUNICATION I

EFFECT OF OXADIAZON ON CLARIAS GRARIEPINUS: I INCUBATION PERIOD AND HATCHING SUCCESS

DONALD I. OSUIGWEDepartment of Fisheries Economics *Michael Okpara University of Agriculture,Umudike, P.M.B 7267 Umuahia,Abia State, Nigeriae-mail: diosuk @ yahoo.co.uk.

ABSTRACT

The effect of oxadiazon, (a herbicide applied in irrigated paddy fields and fadama) on incubation period and hatching success of Clarias gariepinus was investigated. At the concentration of 1800ug/I applied under field conditions, the incubation period was not significantly affected (p>0.05) while the number eggs hatched were significantly depressed (p<0.05). However, with longer exposure, the percent number of eggs hatched increased but not to the level observed in the control (water). This may be attributed to gradual removal of the active components of oxadiazon from the water column. The presence of oxadiazon at concentration applied in the field therefore poses a potential threat to the recruitment of C. gariepinus in areas where it is applied. Keywords: Clarias gariepinus. eggs. hatching success, incubation period, oxadiazon.

Niger Agric. J.33 (2002): 139-142

SHORT COMMUNICATION II

REGULARITY AND PUBLISHING TRENDS IN `THE

NIGERIAN AGRICULTURAL JOURNAL': 1980-2000

Ike Nwachukwu and Gideon OnuekwusiDept of Agric Extension and Rural SocMichael Okpara University of Agric.Umudike.

ABSTRACT

The Nigerian Agricultural Journal (NAJ) has been in publication for more than three decades now. The objectives of this paper were: to determine the regularity of production, and analyze its publishing trends between 1980 and 2000. All the published editions were identified and analyzed. The results showed that NAJ has not been published regularly. Only 38% of the proposed issues were published. Content analysis of the published articles revealed that 55% of the articles were in crop sciences while 17% and 12% were in soil science and animal science respectively. There were little or no published articles in engineering, food science and processing, and fisheries. Based on the findings, recommendations were made to ensure the sustainability of NAJ.

Niger Agric. J. 33. (2002): 143-145

SHORT COMMUNICATION III

SUGARCANE GERMPLASM EXPEDITION OF SOUTHEASTERN NIGERIA

M.N. Ishaq, A.A. Ndarubu and L.D. BusariSugarcane Research ProgrammeNational Cereals Research Institute, BadeggiP.M.B. 8, Bida Niger State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT.

Sugarcane germplasm expedition was undertaken to the southeastern states of Nigeria in order to identify the available local sugarcane in this region. Fifty-three accessions were identified and collected. Phyto-geographical diversity in cane accessions was observed across the rainforest to the coastal swamp. Most of the clones differ in major morphological traits such as stalk height, girth and internodes colouration. Unlike the accessions which has been reported from the northern part of Nigeria, most of the accessions from the south-east are hard rinded and more resistant to smut and stem borer which are the most economically important disease and pest of sugarcane in Nigeria. They therefore have a great potential for breeding improved sugarcane varieties for sugar industries in Nigeria. These diverse and important breeding values confer on them a great potential as parent materials for use in the development of improved cane varieties for local growers and sugar estates.