Volume-11, Issue-7, July 2025

Abstract

This research aims to determine the performance and carcass production of quails that have been given fermented dragon fruit peel juice. The experiment was arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) using 180 male quails aged 6 to 16 weeks, divided into 3 treatment with 6 replications per treatment and 10 birds per replication unit. The treatments consisted of drinking water without fermented dragon fruit peel juice (FDFJ0), and drinking water supplemented with 4% (FDFJ4) and 6% (FDFJ6) fermented dragon fruit peel juice. The variable observed in this study are growth performance and carcass characteristics. Data were analyzed statistically using analysis of variance (ANOVA) with SPSS for Windows version 23. If significant differences were observed at P<0.05, Duncan’smultiple range test was performed for further comparison. The results showed that supplementation with 4% and 6% FDFJ in drinking water significantly increased body weight gain, carcass weight, carcass percentage, breast meat weight, and breast meat percentage, while significantly reducing feed conversion ratio (FCR) compared to the control group (FDFJ0). However, there was no significant effect on feed intake, water intake, final body weight, and slaughter weight. In male quails aged 6-16 weeks, it has been determined that adding 4% and 6% fermented dragon fruit peel juice to drinking water enhances growth performance and carcass quality, especially with regard to breast meat production and FCR.

Keywords: Carcass Characteristic, Dragron Fruit Peel Juice Fermented, Performance, Quails

References

References not available

Abstract

The analysis of banana sap water (BSW) reveals its significant bioactive properties and potential applications in various fields, particularly in medicine and agriculture. Research indicates that banana sap is rich in antimicrobial compounds, making it a valuable resource for health-related applications. Additionally, its nutrient composition supports plant growth, suggesting its utility in agricultural practices. BSW shows antibacterial activity, and it is more active against Gram-negative bacteria. The absence of a zone of inhibition in the case of antifungal activity indicates, BSW does not show antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger and Aspergillus flavus. BSW contain a considerable amount of N, P, and Kalong with essential micronutrients like Ca, S, Mg, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu, B, etc., which playa significant role in plant health and productivity. The nutritional and biological analysis revealed the presence of micronutrients and antibacterial qualities, which broadens its range of applications. The application of bio-enriched banana pseudostem sap as a liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) topically affects nutrient absorption, yield and quality of plants.

Keywords: Banana sap water, antimicrobial, antifungal, nutritional analysis

References

References not available

Abstract

Wastewater (WW) produced by a 12 MW Rice Hull Fired Power Plant was analysed and then treated with organic based functional compound agents (FCA) to determine its sanitizing efficacy. Composite samples were analysed for Silica (SiO , Nitrates (NO -), Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD), Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and heavy metals specifically lead 2) 3 (Pb) and mercury (Hg) concentration. In-situ properties, namely; pH, temperature, and dissolved oxygen (DO) were also determined by grab sampling. Correlation of these properties with other parameters was done as well. Results were compared with the permissible level of the country’senvironmental regulating body. Exceeding the permissible limit of Class C surface water based on the environmental regulating agency were Pb, temperature, DO, and BOD indicating that the water is slightly unfit for irrigation purposes. Treating the WW (p <0.05) with the FCA resulted in the reduction of pH by 4.6%, in high increase of TSS by 3,315.64% and increase of Pb by 239.62%. Meanwhile, no change was observed in the temperature, DO, NO-SiO and Hg. Therefore, the FCA tested had no sanitizing effect on the WW. 3, 2

Keywords: Rice Hull Gasifier Plant, Wastewater, BOD, TSS, Organic Based Functional Compounds, Pb, Hg, SiO . 2

References

References not available

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in fruits of Citrus sinensis Collected from trees grown around Port Harcourt Metropolis. Stratified random sampling technique was used to select five study locations grouped into high and low traffic density areas and data collected in the wet and dry seasons. In the dry season higher Concentration of Naphthalene (4.98 x 10-5ppm) was measured at Garrison, acenaphthene at Trans-Amadi (8.28 x10-3 ppm), anthracene 6.05 x10-5 ppm) at Rivers State University. PAHs measured around the study locations in the dry season were significantly different at P≤0.05 using the Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMRT). In the wet season, Rivers State University recorded significantly high concentration of Pyrene (7.99 x10-4), Benzo (b) fluoranthene (1.58 x10-4 ppm), Benzo (k) fluoranthene (8.63 x10-4 ppm), Benzo (a) Pyrene (2.44 x10-4 ppm) and Dibenz (a,h) anthracene (3.01 x10-3 ppm). Individual PAHs in Rumuokoro were all below detectable limits in the wet season. Rivers State University recorded significantly high concentrations of Benzo (a) Pyrene in both wet and dry seasons. Acenaphthene was detected only at Rivers State University (2.96 x 10-3 ppm) in the wet season while anthracene was detected at two locations (Garrison: 1.72 x10-5 ppm and RSU:5.33 x10-6 ppm). Trans Amadi recorded the highest concentrations of Flouranthene (1.46 x 10-4 ppm), Benz (a) anthracene (1.05 x 10-5 ppm), Chrysene (4.78 x 10-4 ppm), Benzo (b) fluoranthene (7.91 x 10-5 ppm), Benzo (k) fluoranthene (3.29 x 10-4 ppm), Dibenz (a,h) anthracene (4.64 x 10-4 ppm), Indeno (1,2,3-cd) pyrene (1.71 x 10-3 ppm) and Benzo (g, h, i) perylene (8.34 x 10-4 ppm) in the wet season. In the dry season, Benzo (a)anthracene was observed to be within USEPA standard at the Garrison location. Carcinogenic and mutagenic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons such as Benz (a)anthracene and Benz (a) pyrene were observed to have concentrations higher than the USEPA standard in Rivers State University in the wet season, this poses serious threat to humans and other lifeforms at that location. The distribution of PAHs in fruits within Port Harcourt Metropolis should be monitored regularly due to the toxicological effect and widespread presence in the environment. Government and other relevant authorities should sensitize the public regularly on the sources and health implications of exposure to PAH.

Keywords: Fruits, PAH, Port Harcourt metropolis, Citrus sinensis

References

References not available

Abstract

The relevance of food to human health and survival cannot be over-emphasized. It enhances the development and growth of the people when it is correctly handled, while inappropriate supervision of food could bring ailment and sicknesses. The study examined the level of performance of the Environmental Protection Agency, food safety practices by food handlers, and potential factors affecting the effectiveness of the Environmental Protection Agency strategy in food production in Osun State, Southwestern, Nigeria. The descriptive and quantitative approaches used to conduct this study have Environmental agencies in Osun State as respondents with the application of SPSS and R software packages. A T-test was carried out to find out the difference in the responses of the respondents. The finding revealed that the food supply to the consumers is edible and of good quality is part of the agency'srole (83.1%). This study established that environmental protection agencies are charged with the responsibility to secure a quality environment suitable for good health and well-being, protect people in the society against food that is injurious to health and enter the food business premises at a reasonable time and regularly. The results showed that the level of performance of environmental agencies in educating the populace that everybody stands an equal chance of being affected by food poisoning is very high (98.8%). The finding showed that agencies always advocate that the health status of workers should be evaluated before employment (96.4%). The results indicated that swollen cans may contain the microorganism, clostridium botulism, which causes botulism (92.4%). The results revealed that food handlers did not use gloves during the distribution of unpacked food (72.3%). The result also indicated that food handlers were not checking the shelf life of food at the time of delivery (67.5%). The results showed that the major factor affecting the effectiveness of the Environmental Protection Agencies (96.4 %). The findings showed that there was a significant statistical difference (p˂0.05) in the responses of respondents. The study concluded that environmental protection agencies have important roles to play in food processing, but some factor affect their effectiveness.

Keywords: Environmental protect agency, health, Food processing, Food safety. Legislation

References

References not available

Abstract

The use of herbicides poses problems of multifaceted environmental pollution, toxicity and depletion of microflora and microfauna in the soil. Farmers and environmentalists are powerless in the face of this problem. However, certain plant extracts are known for their allelopathic properties through their allelochemicals, which is primarily demonstrated by their effectiveness on weeds. It is in this context that the present study was conducted, with the aim of evaluating the bioherbicidal efficacy of extracts of Cupressus lusitanica, Bambusa vulgaris and Ricinus communis on Bidens pilosa, a weed frequently found in cultivated plants and which causes enormous crop losses. To achieve this objective, 75 seeds of these weeds were sterilised using 0.5% sodium hypochlorite for 2 minutes. Subsequently, 15 Petri dishes were prepared with plant extract, then filter paper was moistened with 2 ml of distilled water and placed at the bottom of each Petri dish. Seventy-five (75) previously sterilised weed seeds were placed in each of these Petri dishes at a rate of 5 per dish. Each seed was sprayed with 1 ml of each extract at concentrations of 7.5, 15 and 30 mg/ml. The Petri dishes containing distilled water and those sprayed with the herbicide at the manufacturer'srecommended dose were used as negative and positive controls, respectively. All of the dishes were placed in a growth chamber at 23 ± 1°C in the dark. From the second day of incubation, the seeds were carefully observed for any signs of germination, and when this was visible, it was counted and noted, and the lengths of the stems, the number of leaves and their surface areas were measured. The highest concentrations of the extracts that had shown some efficacy in vitro were brought back to the field for bioherbicide testing under pre-emergence conditions.

The results showed that all three plant extracts significantly inhibited the germination of Bidens pilosa seeds compared to the negative control. However, the percentage of inhibition of weed seed germination was significant at the highest concentrations. Thus, concentrations of 30 mg/ml of the three plant extracts were the most effective, with no germination of Bidens spilosa seeds, i.e. a rate of 0%. On the other hand, the highest germination rates were observed with concentrations of 7.5 and 15 mg/ml. These rates varied between 26.67 and 80% and were similar to those of the negative controls according to Duncan's 5% test. Of all three concentrations of the different plant extracts tested in the field, only those of Cupressus lusitanica were the most effective insignificantly destroying the leaves of Bidens pilosa.

These results suggest the possibility of using extracts from this plant at a concentration of 30 mg/ml to control this weed, however further studies are needed to complete the information associated with this.

Keywords: Bioherbicide, plant extracts, Cupressus lusitanica, Bambusa vulgaris, Ricinus communis, weed

References

References not available

Abstract

This study was conducted to assess the quality of water samples taken from irrigation wells used for irrigating agricultural fields of Hatunsaray neighborhood of Meram district, Konya province. Within the scope of the study, water samples were collected from the wells used for irrigation and soil samples were also collected from the agricultural fields irrigated with these wells at depths of 0-30, 30-60 and 60-90 cm. Irrigation water and soil samples were subjected to physical and chemical analyses. Majority of the soils in the region were loamy (L) and clay-loam (CL) in texture. Soil pH values varied between 7.94-9.10 and soil ECvalues between 242-857 µmhos/cm. Irrigation water ECvalues ranged from 198 to 772 µmhos/cm, while the pH values ranged from 6.91 to 8.38. Irrigation water samples were classified as C S (moderately saline 2 1-low alkaline). To prevent salinity problems in agricultural lands, drainage systems should be established and maintenance and repairs of existing drainage channels should be carried out periodically. It is anticipated that the necessary cultural measures will prevent salinity problems in the coming years.

Keywords: Irrigation, irrigation water quality, salinity, sodium content, soil salinity

References

References not available

Abstract

Thirty-eight advanced bread wheat lines were evaluated in Randomised Block Design with four replications at Agriculture Research Station, S. D. Agricultural University, Ladol (Gujarat) during rabi 2020-21 season to evaluate the association of yield and yield-related traits and determine the direct and indirect effects of yield-related traits on grain yield. The results of the study'scorrelation analysis showed grain yield per plot had highly significant and positive correlation with number of effective tiller per meter and biological yield per plot at both genotypic and phenotypic level, that indicated that these are major contributors for increasing the grain yield per plot and selection could be more effective for these traits. The estimates of genotypic correlation coefficient were higher for most of the characters than phenotypic correlation coefficient, indicating a strong inherent association among various characters. Path analysis revealed that the biological yield per plot followed by spike length had the highest positive direct effect on grain yield per plot whereas number of effective tillers per meter followed by 1000 grain weight and number of grain per spike revealed negative high direct effect on grain yield per plot. Hence, the present investigation can be helpful as selection criteria to increase grain yield in bread wheat based on these above-mentioned traits viz., biological yield per plot and spike length. These character have to be rank the first in any breeding program to improve wheat grain yield.

Keywords: Correlation, path analysis, genotypic, phenotypic

References

References not available

Abstract

Plastic drum biogas digester (PDBD) is a low-cost yet an efficient system in biogas production using different manure substrates as feedstock. Hence, this study was conducted to determine the volume of biogas produce using the PDBD system in daytime and nighttime collection using swine slurry (SS) and chicken manure (CM) as substrates. Likewise, to assess the economic feasibility of the low-cost biogas system. A 8-drum PDBD system was designed, fabricated and immersed in the manure or slurry lagoon of private piggery and poultry farms in Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija and San Antonio, Quezon Province, Philippines, respectively. The captured methane gas produced was observed and measured during day and night times. The volume of gas produced after 96 hours (4 days) was 2,580.64 ℓ or 1316.65 kg which tested 4 hours of uninterrupted cooking or a flow rate of 10.98 ℓ/minute using the system with SS. While, 8,856.72 ℓ which when allowed to a continuous depletion or emptying the submersion of the PDBD, the recorded time consumed was 16.5 minutes through a double burner stove with maximum level of fire using the PBDB system with CM. Higher methane captured was recorded during daytime compared to nighttime in both SSand CM substrate using the PDBD system. Lastly, the PDBD system is economically feasible. The PBDB system has proven to capture biogas or methane in an open-pit lagoon with minimal cost of production and economically viable to invest and include in a swine and poultry enterprises.

Keywords: A Biogas, Chicken Manure, Methane and Swine Manure

References

References not available

Abstract

Sugarcane (Saccharum officianarum L.)is one of the most important economic crops in the world. The climatic conditions and soil types in the Sudan are suitable for the production of the crop, especially in the central clay plains. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of different levels of Urea and Cocoly® fertilizers on yield and yield components of sugarcane (variety Co997) in the heavy clay soils. The experiment was conducted at the Research and Development Farm, Kenana Sugar Scheme (Sudan), during the season-(2021/2022). The treatments consisted of three levels of Urea fertilizer (0, 238 and 375 kg/ha) and four levels of Cocoly® fertilizer (0, 48, 95 and 143 kg/ha). The treatments were arranged in split plot design with four replications. Urea fertilizer was assigned as the main plots and Cocoly® fertilizer as the subplots. The results showed that increasing Urea fertilizer, significantly increased cane height, cane thickness, cane internodes and cane yield. Whereas increasing Cocoly® fertilizer, significantly increased plant height, stalk population, stalk weight and cane yield. The highest cane yield (199.9 t/ha) was obtained when the crop fertilized with 143 kg Cocoly®/ha and 375kg/ha Urea. Depending on the results of this study, to obtain high cane yield from Sugarcane, it could be recommended that the crop should be fertilized with 143 kg/ha of Cocoly® and 375 kg/ha of Urea.

Keywords: Cocoly® fertilizer, Sugarcane yield, Urea fertilizer, Heavy clay soils, Kenana Sugar Scheme

References

References not available

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the irrigation water quality of water sources used in agricultural fields of the Mezitli district of Mersin province and the salinity level of agricultural lands irrigated with these waters. Water samples were taken from water resources used to irrigate lands of the research area once a month for four months (July, August, September and October) during the irrigation season. The pH values of irrigation water samples taken in July, August, September and October varied between 7.05-8.26 and the ECvalues varied between 292-1103 µmhos/cm. According to the US Salinity Laboratory Classification System, present water samples were classified as C Sand C S , indicating moderate to 2 1 3 1 high salinity. Boron concentrations of all samples were below the threshold boron level of 0.67 ppm. During a period of intensive irrigation in the areas where the research was conducted (August), soil samples were taken from a depth of 30 cm to 90 cm of five plots. Soil textures were identified as clay, loamy and clay-loam. Soil pH values varied between 7.38-7.95 and soil ECvalues varied between 1985-3180 µmhos/cm. It was determined that the soil salinity was below the threshold value of 4000 µmhos/cm. No significant differences in quality or quantity were observed in the water samples throughout the irrigation season (July-October) and the soil samples did not pose any risks in terms of salinity and boron toxicity under the current conditions.

Keywords: Irrigation, irrigation water quality, saline irrigation water, sodium content, soil salinity

References

References not available

Abstract

In this research, an experimental study to evaluate removal of COD and BOD from Dairy wastewater by treatment Moving Bed Bio-Film Reactor (MBBR). The paper discusses biological treatment. The objective of the study was evaluation of operational parameters and performance of reactors based on attached growth process by using MBBR. The result shows removal efficiency of Biochemical oxygen demand (BOD), Chemical oxygen demand (COD) and PH were 89%, 84% respectively. The conclusions also indicate that MBBR, with polypropylene media as biofilm carrier, possess great removal Dairy wastewater. The MBBR tanks were filled with suspended plastic carriers, with a 30 to 50% filling ratio. Under optimum conditions, almost complete COD/BOD removal efficiency of 79 % was achieved. This study indicates that its demonstrated that use of this reactor results in removal from wastewater.

Keywords: Dairy wastewater, Bio-film Media, Biological carrier, COD, BOD, Biomass

References

References not available

Abstract

Introduction: Wetlands are one of the world’smost essential type of ecosystems and are also the most vulnerable. Their role is functionally critical in climate change, biodiversity, hydrology and human health.

Problem Statement: The degradation of wetlands is beyond doubt a certainty and our conducts are the main factors to lay blame on. Current world research estimates that 50% of the Earth’swetlands have vanished.

Methodology: This review article is essentially a qualitative in complexion, using secondary data. The review will go through definitions, theories, global current state and extent of wetlands; African wetlands and their background, threats and future, rehabilitation through to conclusions and recommendations.

Results: The plans for the management of marshlands in the world are unimpressive especially in Africa and Asia. There is need for working together, holistically, at all levels to bolster global wetlands conservation and restoration. Conclusion: The pressure on wetlands is increasing allover Africa due to population explosion. The survival of wetlands in Africa lies in a stronger political will. This is to be based on wetland policies and encouragement for community participation in their management. Countries in Africa are subscribing to the Ramsar Convention, indicating a willingness to sustainable wetland management.

Keywords: Marshlands, Restoration, Degradation, Swamps, Ecosystem

References

References not available

Abstract

Central zone is the third largest wheat producing zone of India which occupies 23.15% of total area and accounts for 20.37% of the total production of wheat in the country. For sustaining the high productivity levels in these areas, a constant demand of improved wheat varieties from the wheat breeding programs is desired. A high yielding bread wheat cultivar GW 513 has been developed and released for cultivation in these areas after testing in trials under AICRP on Wheat and Barley. GW 513 is a high yielding wheat genotype which has shown a significant yield superiority under timely sown irrigated conditions of Central zone over the checks GW 322 and HI 1544 during 2018-19 & 2019-20. Average yield of GW 513 during three years of testing was recorded to be 58.5 qha-1. It has a potential yield of 77.4 q/ha at Tikamgarh location during 2019-20. The variety was released by Central Sub-committee on Crop Standards, Notification and Release of variety, Ministry of Agriculture, Government of India vide notification No. S.O. 8(E) dated on 24th December, 2021 for cultivation in the central zone of India. GW 513 is having a high yield potential along with disease resistance and superior grain quality. The ability to adopt across variable growing conditions in central zone is a huge advantage for this genotype and will also go along way in sustaining its cultivation in the region.

Keywords: GW 513, central zone, high yield potential, rust resistance, wheat

References

References not available

Abstract

In the present work, degradation of pharmaceutical effluent has been investigated using hydrodynamic cavitation process. In this study, the effect of hydrodynamic cavitation was examined for the different time intervals from 0 to 150 mins. In hydrodynamic cavitation pump was used of 1 H.P capacity and reactor capacity were 50 litres. With hydrodynamic cavitation, the maximum COD removal achieved was 80.36% in 90 mins.

Keywords: Advanced oxidation process, COD removal, pharmaceutical wastewater, cavitation

References

References not available

Abstract

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of zinc fertilization strategies on growth, yield, and nutrient uptake in two traditional aromatic rice cultivars, Tulaipanji and Kalonunia, under acidic soil conditions of North Bengal. The field experiment was conducted during the kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 at Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, using a Split Plot Design with three replications. The main plot comprised two varieties, while the sub-plot included six zinc management treatments, involving combinations of soil-applied, foliar-applied, and nano zinc sources. Results revealed significant varietal differences, with Kalonunia consistently outperforming Tulaipanji in terms of plant height, number of tillers, chlorophyll index, grain yield, and nutrient uptake. Among zinc treatments, the integrated application of 2.5 kg Zn ha-1 as basal + 100 ppm nano Zn foliar at panicle initiation + 0.5% Zn foliar spray at grain filling (Z ) showed superior 3 performance across both years. Z₃ recorded the highest grain yield (2.77 t ha-1), grain number per panicle (121.69), and maximum uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc in straw. This enhanced performance is attributed to improved zinc bioavailability and the synergistic action of multiple application timings and forms.

The findings emphasize the efficacy of integrated zinc management, particularly involving nano and foliar zinc application, in enhancing yield and nutritional quality of aromatic rice cultivars. Such strategies hold promises for sustainable crop production and combating micronutrient malnutrition in zinc-deficient regions.

Keywords: Aromatic rice, nano zinc, biofortification, zinc fertilization, nutrient uptake, yield enhancement, Kalonunia, Tulaipanji

References

References not available

Abstract

Silk has long been admired for its richness, beauty, and timeless elegance. Even today, no fabric can rival its natural shine and luxurious appeal. Celebrated as the “queen of textiles,” silk has become deeply embedded in India’sculture and traditions, often worn during religious rituals and festival occasions. Andhra Pradesh, a state with a rich cultural heritage, stands as the second-largest producer of mulberry silk in India and is widely recognized for its internationally acclaimed bivoltine silk. Sericulture is not only a vital contributor to the state’seconomy but also provides regular employment, especially to rural youth.

Andhra Pradesh located on the southeastern coast of India, Andhra Pradesh comprises two main regions-Coastal Andhra and Rayalaseema. In today’scontext, the youth are seen as the foundation and driving force of the nation’sfuture. With creativity, energy, and innovation, young people possess the potential to bring about transformative change. However, rural youth often face significant challenges in securing sustainable livelihoods. Their talents remain underutilized due to limited opportunities and systemic neglect.

To address this gap, it is crucial to make agriculture and allied sectors—such as sericulture and animal husbandry—more appealing and economically viable for the younger generation. As a labor-intensive, rural-based agro-industry, sericulture offers vast employment potential and helps prevent migration from villages to cities. Its strong integration of on-farm and off-farm activities has earned it recognition as a key driver for rural socio-economic development in India’slargely agrarian economy. Therefore, engaging youth in agriculture and allied enterprises is essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these sectors.

Keywords: Sericulture, Rural Youth, Enterprise, Opportunities, Empowerment

References

References not available

Abstract

Assam, with its rich biodiversity and vast agricultural landscape, holds immense potential for biomass-based renewable energy. Agricultural residues, forest biomass and dedicated energy crops present a sustainable and locally abundant energy source. Unlocking this biomass potential can contribute to addressing Assam’sgrowing energy demands, especially in rural and peri-urban areas, while reducing dependency on conventional fossil fuels and alleviating waste management issues. Explores the opportunities for biomass energy in Assam and outlines strategies for its effective utilization. Key challenges, such as technological gaps, economic viability and infrastructural constraints, must be addressed to realize the full potential of biomass energy. Advanced technologies like carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS) can improve the efficiency and environmental sustainability of biomass projects. Additionally, strong policy frameworks, including financial incentives and research funding, are crucial to promote investment in biomass energy. Engaging local communities in the energy transition is essential for the successful adoption of biomass solutions. By fostering collaboration between the government, private sector and local stakeholders, Assam can unlock the full potential of its biomass resources, paving the way for a greener, more sustainable energy future. This paper highlights the need for coordinated efforts to harness biomass for renewable energy conversion in Assam.

Keywords: Biomass Energy, Renewable Energy, Sustainability, Assam

References

References not available

Abstract

This study investigates the role of artificial intelligence (AI) in agricultural risk management among smallholder cowpea farmers and processors in Niger State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods approach and a sample of 200 respondents, the study assessed socio-economic characteristics, AIawareness and adoption patterns, perceptions of AItool functionality, influencing factors, and adoption challenges. Results revealed that 62% of respondents were male, 43% aged between 31–45 years, and 47% had only primary or no formal education. The average farm size was 1.86 hectares, and 69% were cooperative members. Awareness of AItechnologies was moderate to high, with 68% aware of AI-based weather forecasting, 62% aware of pest detection tools, and 54% familiar with price prediction platforms. However, only 42% had adopted any AItool, and just 29% found them easy to use. Perception scores were highest for AI in weather forecasting (mean=2.91), pest detection (2.76), and risk mitigation (2.81), while ease of use (2.38) and device compatibility (2.44) were below the acceptance threshold. Regression analysis identified educational level, digital literacy, AIawareness, and extension contact as significant at the 1% level. Gender, farm size, and cooperative membership were significant at the 5% level, while age and access to credit were weakly significant (10%). Marital status, farming experience, and perceived risk level were not significant. Kendall’s Coefficient of Concordance (W=0.726, p < 0.001) revealed strong agreement on adoption challenges, with top-ranked constraints including low digital literacy (mean rank = 5.84), poor internet access (5.62), and high cost of digital tools (5.38).

Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, Cowpea Farming, Agricultural Risk Management, Technology Adoption

References

References not available

Abstract

The research assessed farmers adoption of system of rice intensification (SRI) in Nasarawa State, Nigeria. The specific objectives of the study were to: describe the socioeconomic characteristics of SRI practitioners among rice farmers, investigated their awareness of SRI, evaluated their adherence to recommended SRI practices, explored factors influencing adoption, and identified barriers hindering adoption. A multi-stage sampling method was used to survey 300 participants. Data were collected using questionnaire and data obtained were analyzed using descriptive statistics and logit regression were employed to achieve these objectives. Results indicated that the majority of SRI practitioners were male, averaging around 45 years old, and typically lived in households with approximately (9) nine members. Findings also showed widespread awareness of nursery planting, high familiarity with manual weeding, and the use of organic fertilizers. Regarding adoption, practices such as nursery planting, transplanting young seedlings at three weeks old, and irrigation were commonly implemented. Logit regression analysis highlighted significant positive influences of gender (P<0.01) and education level (P<0.01) on SRI adoption. The primary barrier identified was the high cost of labor, which significantly deterred farmers from adopting SRI. The study concluded that the socioeconomic characteristics of farmers playa crucial role in their adoption of SRI in Nasarawa State. Recommendations included initiatives to mitigate labor costs and strengthen extension services to provide ongoing technical support and guidance on SRI practices.

Keywords: Adoption, rice, intensification, methodology, farmers

References

References not available