Agriculture Journal: Volume-12, Issue-3, March, 2026

Abstract- Mushrooms are a rich source of proteins and contain all essential amino acids. Eating mushrooms not only provides essential nutrients but also combats many diseases like cancer and diabetes. Oyster mushrooms are popular edible mushroom species which grow easily on paddy straw, wheat straw, paper waste, etc. The present paper discusses a very economical and eco-friendly method of growing mushrooms in urban areas like kitchen gardens and balconies. In the present protocol, no chemicals were used and steam sterilization was done to maintain aseptic conditions. The procedure to grow oyster mushrooms is affordable, and it is relatively easy to start a small-scale entrepreneurship business from home. Using this protocol, the first harvest was obtained within 25-30 days, and mushrooms were found fit for human consumption.
Keywords— Oyster mushroom, Pleurotus ostreatus, urban farming, sustainable agriculture, food security.

Abstract- Thirty-two pole-type French bean genotypes were evaluated in a randomized block design with two replications during Rabi 2022–23 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Vijayapura, University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, India. High genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV >20%) were recorded for protein content and reducing sugar content in pods, indicating substantial genetic variability with minimal environmental influence and good scope for improvement through direct selection. Moderate GCV and PCV (10–20%) for non-reducing sugar content in pods suggested the involvement of both additive and non-additive gene effects, reflecting adequate variability and the usefulness of phenotypic selection. High heritability (>60%) coupled with high genetic advance as per cent of mean (>20%) was observed for protein, reducing sugar, and non-reducing sugar contents in pods, indicating predominance of additive gene action. Therefore, direct selection would be effective for improving these traits. Evaluation of qualitative pod traits revealed significant variation for pod colour, shape, curvature, stringlessness, beak position, and beak orientation among genotypes. Genotypes IC-632961 and IIHR-01 were identified as superior based on round, stringless pods with attractive medium green colour, making them desirable for both consumer preference and commercial cultivation.
Keywords— GAM, Heritability, GCV, PCV, Reducing sugar, Protein, Pole type French bean.

Abstract- The research investigated the genetic diversity and genetic neutrality of cattle populations in Taraba State, Nigeria. The study analyzed 100 reference populations, and 28 blood samples were used for mitochondrial DNA sequencing using Flinders Technology Associates (FTA) paper, which covered five locations (Iware, Wukari, Donga, Gembu, and Jalingo) and five breeds (Bokoloji, Muturu, Red Bororo, White Fulani, Adamawa Gudali). The research utilized Tajima's Neutrality Test, Tajima's Relative Rate Clock Test, and phylogenetic analysis to determine patterns of molecular evolution and population structure. The analysis of location-based neutrality showed that all populations tested positive for Tajima's D, with Iware recording 2.73 D value, Wukari showing 3.33 D value, Donga presenting 1.99 D value, and Gembu achieving 4.04 D value. The nucleotide diversity (π) measured between 0.5759 in Donga and 0.6781 in Gembu, indicating moderate to high genetic variability, whereas Wukari and Gembu displayed the most segregating sites with S = 778 and 779. The findings demonstrate evolution that deviates from neutral patterns due to three factors: balancing selection, population subdivision, and historical demographic patterns. The breed-based analysis produced positive Tajima's D results, reaching peak values in White Fulani (D = 4.49) and Red Bororo (D = 4.05), with both breeds showing high nucleotide diversity (π = 0.6535 and 0.6989, respectively). The Bokoloji (D = 1.25) and Muturu (D = 1.00) results showed reduced polymorphism levels, with S = 562 and 512. The Tajima's Clock Test results showed that evolutionary rates differed significantly between study locations. Iware showed the highest number of identical sites (202) and very few divergent sites (6), but a pronounced imbalance in unique substitutions, specially in sequence A (536). Wukari, Donga, and Gembu showed more divergent sites, with their total counts reaching 244, 229, and 193 respectively, while their unique differences among sequences appeared to be distributed more evenly, which proved the molecular clock predictions to be less accurate. The analysis of phylogenetic relationships demonstrated that different breeds of cattle from different regions showed shared ancestry together with genetic mixing from different populations. The research results demonstrate that Taraba State cattle populations possess high genetic diversity together with non-neutral evolutionary patterns and different rates of evolutionary change, which affect both conservation efforts and breeding programmes.
Keywords— Genetic diversity, Tajima's neutrality test, Cattle breeds, Phylogenetic analysis.

Abstract- Salinity is a critical abiotic constraint to maize (Zea mays L.) production, affecting growth, photosynthesis and oxidative balance. This study examined the responses of five cultivars (DHM 144, NK 7720, SY 594, Sunny NMH 777 and Dragon NMH 1247) to 150 mM NaCl stress. Measurements at 0, 7 and 14 days after stress initiation included plant height, leaf area, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, antioxidant enzyme activities [superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), peroxidase (POD)], proline accumulation and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. Salinity reduced morphological and physiological traits across genotypes, with Dragon NMH 1247 maintaining higher growth, chlorophyll content and stomatal conductance, coupled with enhanced SOD, CAT and POD activities and lower MDA accumulation. All cultivars had a higher proline content which was not always correlated with stress tolerance. Findings show that antioxidant capacity, chlorophyll retention and low oxidative damage are some of the main factors that determine salinity tolerance in maize. Dragon NMH 1247 emerged as the most tolerant genotype and is an attractive target for saline-prone environments and breeding programs.
Keywords— Maize, salt stress, proline, antioxidant enzymes.

Abstract- This study evaluated the effects of reduced crude protein (CP) diets supplemented with amino acids on the growth performance and profitability of Hubbard colored broilers. Three isocaloric finisher rations were formulated with 19%, 17%, and 15% CP, with the CP-reduced diets supplemented with methionine, lysine, threonine, and tryptophan. A total of 120 broilers were randomly assigned to these three treatments with four replicates each. Results showed significant differences (p<0.05) in final weight, total weight gain, and average daily gain. Broilers fed reduced CP diets (17% and 15%) exhibited superior growth performance compared to those on the 19% CP control. Furthermore, reduced CP treatments significantly decreased the incidence of footpad dermatitis and increased net profit and return on investment. These findings suggest that lowering CP levels with amino acid supplementation offers a cost-effective and environmentally sustainable strategy for broiler production.
Keywords— Crude Protein, Amino Acids, Hubbard Broilers, Growth Performance, Footpad Dermatitis, Economics.

Abstract- Limited reach and delayed responsiveness of conventional agricultural extension services may constrain fish farming productivity in Nigeria. Inadequate farm visits and delayed access to technical expertise can hinder timely problem resolution and informed decision-making. This exploratory case study examined the use of Google Meet and Zoom as real-time digital extension tools for supporting aquaculture advisory interactions at Brazil Farm, Abuja, Nigeria. A field-based case-study design was adopted, and live advisory sessions were conducted on both platforms to connect a farm manager with an aquaculture specialist located remotely. Structured observation was used to assess technical performance, interaction quality, advisory clarity, and farmer engagement during the live sessions. Both platforms enabled real-time visual assessment, interactive diagnosis, and immediate technical feedback, suggesting that synchronous video platforms may support real-time aquaculture advisory interactions in similar contexts. However, performance differences were observed. Zoom demonstrated more stable connectivity and clearer audio transmission, supporting smoother interaction during the technical discussion. Google Meet provided easier access and simpler navigation, facilitating quicker session initiation for users with limited prior experience. The observations from this exploratory case study suggest that platform functionality may be influenced by technological reliability, user familiarity, and local infrastructural conditions. Although limited to a single-case field study, the research provides empirical insight into the potential of real-time digital advisory systems to complement conventional extension approaches. Further multi-site and quantitative investigations are recommended to enhance generalizability and inform policy adoption.
Keywords— Digital extension; Aquaculture advisory; Real-time ICT; Google Meet; Zoom; Agricultural extension; Video conferencing; Fish farming; Nigeria.

Abstract-
Background: The occurrence of high rainfall in Assam and leaching of base cations cause the soils to become acidic in reaction. The high mobility of iron in acid soil and its absorption raises the iron concentration, and it damages the physiology of crop plants. That is why excessive iron is regarded as one of the limiting factors responsible for lowering growth, development and yield of upland rice crop under irrigation through shallow tube wells. An innovative approach using extracts of potassium- and antioxidant-rich bio-inputs might be a novel approach for deterring and halting physio-biochemical aberrations due to higher iron in acid soil condition.
Method: A pot experiment (CRBD with three replications) was carried out to investigate the effects of bay leaf, potato peel, and banana peel extracts on biochemical indicators of some upland (Ahu) rice crop (varieties: Inglongkiri, Dehangi (Fe tolerant), Lachit (Fe susceptible), and Luit) under higher iron in acid soil conditions during the Autumn season (March-September, 2024). The five treatments were: (1) 100 ppm FeSO₄ as basal at vegetative stage (control), (2) 100 ppm FeSO₄ as basal at vegetative stage plus root dip treatment before transplanting and foliar spray with bay leaf extract at 20 days after transplanting, (3) 100 ppm FeSO₄ as basal at vegetative stage plus root dip treatment before transplanting and foliar spray with banana peel extract at 20 days after transplanting, (4) 100 ppm FeSO₄ as basal at vegetative stage plus root dip treatment before transplanting and foliar spray with potato peel extract at 20 days after transplanting; (5) Natural soil without any treatment (absolute control).
Result: In general, compared to the control, the treatments significantly increased biochemical indices viz., total chlorophyll (10.80-21.90%), chlorophyll 'a' (6.39-20.93%), chlorophyll 'b' contents (7.27-22.35%) at maximum tillering stage; total chlorophyll (10.96-21.38%), chlorophyll 'a' (11.88-21.89%), chlorophyll 'b' contents at heading stage (7.22-15.79%), NR activity at maximum tillering (12.43-35.52%) and heading (15-36.23%) stages, carbohydrate content (7.51-13.81%) and reduced iron content (10.57-21.34%) in grain at harvest. The bio-input extracts lessened cation leakage at maximum tillering (2.25-1.63%) and heading (3.52-2.83%) stages, and lipid peroxidation at maximum tillering (30.03-10.55%) and heading (29.64-10.96%) stages, despite the presence of high iron in the soil (initial: 200 ppm, harvest: 106 ppm). In the experiment, the intensity of blue colour following Perl's Prussian Blue staining was directly related to iron content in grain, with darker staining indicating higher iron accumulation, and this was altered by the bio-input treatments.
Keywords— Banana peel, Bay leaf, Chlorophyll, CMS, Cation leakage, Carbohydrate, Iron, Potato peel, Rice.

Abstract- Environmental contamination from herbicide applications for weed control remains a significant concern. This study presents an ecological and dietary risk assessment of tembotrione following its long-term use in maize cultivation, focusing on potential impacts on humans, animals, and aquatic organisms. Residue levels and degradation behavior of tembotrione were monitored in soil, maize plants, and grains at various intervals post-application to estimate exposure risks. The half-life showed a positive correlation with tembotrione persistence in soil, as well as with its water solubility and volatility. Risk Quotient (RQ) values indicated a risk ranging from high to negligible for soil macro-organisms over a 60-day period, with a moderate risk at 90 days. Health Quotient analysis revealed that the risk to animal health from consuming contaminated maize straw varied from high to low. Human dietary exposure posed a relatively low risk. However, aquatic organisms exhibited moderate to high ecological risk. These findings underscore the importance of tembotrione residues and its long-term ecological footprint in agricultural systems.
Keywords— Risk assessment; Fish; Health; Macro-organisms; Pesticides; Maize cultivation; Herbicide persistence.

Abstract- Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important cereal crops cultivated worldwide and plays a significant role in food security, livestock feed, and industrial applications. However, environmental stresses such as drought, heat stress, and irregular rainfall patterns have severely affected maize productivity in many regions. The identification of stable and stress-tolerant maize genotypes is therefore essential for improving crop productivity under changing climatic conditions. The present study aimed to analyze molecular diversity and yield stability among selected maize genotypes under different environmental conditions. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate important agronomic traits including plant height, days to tasseling, cob length, and grain yield. Molecular characterization was performed using simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers to identify genetic variation among maize genotypes. Statistical analyses including analysis of variance (ANOVA), principal component analysis (PCA), and cluster analysis were conducted to evaluate variability and stability among genotypes. The results revealed significant genetic variability among the evaluated maize genotypes. Certain genotypes exhibited superior yield stability and adaptability under stress conditions. The findings suggest that integrating molecular tools with conventional breeding approaches can accelerate the development of climate-resilient maize varieties for sustainable agricultural production.
Keywords— Maize, Molecular diversity, Genetic variability, Stress tolerance, Crop improvement, Climate resilience.

Abstract- Flowering and seed set is enigmatic in bamboos. Massive seeding is followed by death of the entire clump, and seeds also remain viable for a short span of time. This limitation restricts the utility of seeds for various purposes. The solution for this loss of viability can be obtained by improving seed storage methods, such as cryopreservation, to maintain viability over extended periods. Alternative approaches using in vitro techniques including somatic embryogenesis (micropropagation) followed by artificial seed production, as well as in vitro flowering with subsequent seed set, offer promising solutions. Seeds can be utilized for multiple applications through innovative, practical, and commercial approaches that address the unpredictable seeding behavior of bamboos. This review examines the current state of knowledge on bamboo seed germination, storage requirements, phytochemical composition, and biotechnological applications including micropropagation, somatic embryogenesis, artificial seeds, and in vitro flowering.
Keywords— Bamboo seeds, Monocarpy, Somatic embryogenesis, Cryopreservation, Bamboo rice, Artificial seeds, In vitro flowering.

Abstract- Canine parvovirus infection is a highly contagious disease of significant clinical and epidemiological relevance in veterinary medicine. It carries a high risk of severity and lethality, posing a particular threat to young, unvaccinated, or immunocompromised animals, and is one of the leading causes of severe gastroenteritis and mortality in dogs. Canine parvovirus (CPV-2) belongs to the family Parvoviridae and the genus Protoparvovirus. Two distinct parvoviruses are known to infect dogs: CPV-1, also called the minute virus of canines (MCV), and the pathogenic CPV-2. MCV may cause pneumonia, myocarditis, and enteritis in young pups, or transplacental infections in pregnant dams, leading to embryo resorption and fetal death. CPV-2, the causative agent of acute hemorrhagic enteritis and myocarditis in dogs, is one of the most important pathogenic viruses, with high morbidity (100%) and frequent mortality—up to 10% in adult dogs and 91% in puppies. This study aimed to diagnose canine parvovirus in fecal samples, rectal swabs, and organ fragments from dogs using transmission electron microscopy and histopathological techniques. Between 1995 and 2016, approximately 665 fecal specimens or small intestine fragments from dogs with diarrhea were sent to the Electron Microscopy Laboratory of the Biological Institute of São Paulo, SP, Brazil, for viral diagnosis. The samples were processed using transmission electron microscopy (negative staining, immunoelectron microscopy, immunocytochemistry with colloidal gold labeling, and resin embedding) and routine histopathological techniques. Using a Philips EM 208 transmission electron microscope, all samples were analyzed by the negative staining technique. In 62 samples (9.32%), a large number of parvovirus particles were observed—non-enveloped, isometric, and characterized as "complete" and "empty," measuring approximately 20 nm in diameter. Positive results in immunoelectron microscopy were confirmed by the presence of aggregates formed through antigen-antibody interactions. In immunocytochemistry, the antigen-antibody reaction was strongly enhanced by dense colloidal gold particles in all 62 positive samples. Histopathological analysis revealed hemorrhagic small intestine with villous necrosis, multiple hepatic lobules with moderate vacuolar degeneration of hepatocytes, kidneys with extensive areas of cortical coagulative necrosis, severe pulmonary edema, and moderate splenic white pulp reaction.
Keywords— Clinical cases, Anatomopathology, Dog disease.

Abstract- Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum L.) is recognized as one of the world's most important cash crops. The climatic conditions and soil types in Sudan, particularly within the central clay plains, are highly suitable for its cultivation. Organic fertilizer (compost) is a vital resource for improving soil fertility by increasing organic matter content, enhancing soil structure, and stimulating microbial activity, which collectively improve nutrient uptake and crop productivity. In contrast, urea is a synthetic nitrogen fertilizer that provides a highly concentrated and readily available source of nitrogen, a macronutrient essential for vigorous vegetative growth, tillering, and the synthesis of proteins and chlorophyll in plants. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of compost and urea fertilizer on quality of sugarcane (var. Co6806). A field experiment was conducted over two consecutive seasons (2023/24 and 2024/25) at the Research and Development Farm of the Kenana Sugar Scheme, Sudan. The treatments were arranged in a 4×4 factorial in split-plot design with four replications. Urea was assigned to the main plots at four levels (0, 119, 238, and 357 kg/ha), while compost was applied to the sub-plots at four rates (0, 12, 24, and 36 ton/ha). Data were collected on juice quality parameters (Pol%, Brix%, Fiber%, Purity%, Moisture%, and Estimated Recoverable Sucrose Content (ERSC%). The results showed that the main effects of compost and urea, both individually and in combination, on sugarcane quality parameters were non-significant across both seasons. Seasonal variation was the dominant factor influencing juice quality, indicating that environmental conditions played a greater role than fertilization in determining sucrose accumulation. Based on the results of this study, it could be recommended that to obtain high cane yield with maintained quality under similar soil and climatic conditions, the crop should be fertilized with compost at the rate of 36 tons/ha in combination with urea at the rate of 357 kg/ha.
Keywords— Sugarcane, Compost, Urea, Juice quality, Pol%, Brix%, Purity%, ERSC%, Kenana Sugar Scheme, Sudan.

Abstract- Agriculture continues to play a fundamental role in sustaining the economies of many developing countries by ensuring food availability, generating rural employment, and supporting overall economic stability. Among the major agricultural economies of the world, India and China occupy a prominent position as they together account for a substantial share of the global population and agricultural production. Despite similarities in demographic pressures and dependence on agriculture, the two countries display significant differences in agricultural productivity, technological advancement, and institutional support mechanisms. This study provides a comparative analysis of agricultural production in India and China by examining production statistics, crop yields, policy reforms, and structural characteristics of the agricultural sector. The analysis reveals that while India possesses a large agricultural workforce and extensive cultivated land, China has achieved significantly higher productivity with cereal yields averaging 5,800–6,000 kg/ha compared to India's 3,000 kg/ha. China's total food grain production of approximately 695 million tonnes substantially exceeds India's 354 million tonnes. These differences are primarily attributed to China's greater investments in large-scale mechanization, stronger irrigation infrastructure, advanced agricultural research systems, and coordinated institutional reforms. The study also evaluates the impact of economic liberalization and market-oriented reforms on Indian agriculture, particularly in the context of rising input costs, market volatility, and structural constraints faced by small and marginal farmers. The findings suggest that improving agricultural productivity in India requires greater investment in agricultural research, expansion of irrigation infrastructure, promotion of farm mechanization, land consolidation, and strengthening of post-harvest supply chains.
Keywords— India-China comparison, agricultural productivity, farm mechanization, structural constraints, agricultural policy, food security.

Abstract- The present investigation was undertaken to identify promising genotypes resistant to major pests and diseases in pole-type French bean. Thirty-two genotypes were evaluated during the Rabi season of 2022–23 at the Regional Agricultural Research Station, Vijayapura, under the University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad, Karnataka, India. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with two replications under natural field conditions. Significant variation among the genotypes was observed in their response to biotic stresses. Genotypes IC-636224, IC-636225, IC-341797, IC-341922, IC-636240, IC-313309, EC-398555, IC-582514, IIHR-01, and IIHR-02 showed resistance to Fusarium wilt with 0–10% mortality. These same genotypes exhibited no symptoms of Bean common mosaic virus and were classified as immune. Similarly, genotypes IC-636224, IC-341797, IC-341807, IC-341922, IC-636240, IC-430379, IC-313309, IC-582514, IC-538073, IC-632961, IC-313320, IC-538077, IC-326977, IIHR-01, and IIHR-02 showed resistance to pod borer with 1–12% pod damage. Furthermore, genotypes IC-538077, IC-582511, IC-632961, IC-326978, IC-328398, IC-313309, IC-430379, and IC-641919 showed no aphid infestation. These lines may be effectively utilized in breeding programmes to develop new varieties with enhanced resistance to insect pests and diseases.
Keywords— Fusarium wilt, Bean common mosaic virus, Pod borer, Aphids, Pole-type French bean.

Abstract- Metagenomics has emerged as a paradigm-shifting approach in microbiology, enabling direct genomic analysis of entire microbial communities from their natural environments without the constraints of laboratory cultivation. This comprehensive review synthesizes current methodologies, computational challenges, and breakthrough applications of metagenomic approaches. We examine the evolution from single-organism genomics to community-level genomic analysis, highlighting how technological advances in sequencing platforms have overcome traditional cultivation limitations. The review covers critical aspects including environmental sampling strategies, next-generation sequencing technologies, assembly algorithms, taxonomic binning approaches, and functional annotation pipelines. The profound implications for understanding microbial ecology, symbiotic relationships, and the discovery of novel gene families are discussed. Current computational challenges and emerging solutions are evaluated, along with the transformative potential of third-generation sequencing technologies. This review positions metagenomics as a foundational technology driving discoveries across environmental microbiology, clinical diagnostics, biotechnology, and our fundamental understanding of microbial contributions to planetary processes.
Keywords— metagenomics, microbial communities, environmental genomics, next-generation sequencing, taxonomic binning, functional annotation.

Abstract- Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology is instrumental in transforming traditional university libraries into smart, automated, and user-centric environments. The traditional security system of libraries is usually based on manual inspection and access control, which leads to low security and low efficiency. Based on the intelligent perception system, the location and state of books can be monitored and controlled in real-time, so as to prevent books from being lost or stolen. By implementing self-service checkouts, real-time inventory management, and improved security measures, RFID enhances security by deterring unauthorized removal of materials and optimizes inventory management through swift, bulk item scanning. The advent of Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology has initiated a significant transformation in library operations. RFID, a wireless technology that utilizes electromagnetic fields, presents an innovative method for identifying and tracking library materials. RFID simplifies library operations and enhances the user experience. Its integration promotes effective resource tracking, diminishes manual workload, and aids in the digital advancement of academic libraries. Applications in various universities have illustrated RFID's contribution to improving operational efficiency and service quality, establishing it as a fundamental element in the evolution of smart university libraries. This study aims to assess user awareness of RFID technology, examine its implementation status in university libraries, identify areas of application, and evaluate its impact on library operations. The findings indicate that while 80% of users are aware of RFID technology, its implementation remains limited. Among libraries that have adopted RFID, the technology is primarily used for self-check-in/check-out (59%) and security/anti-theft purposes (41%). The majority of respondents view RFID as a crucial tool for transforming traditional libraries into smart, automated, and user-friendly environments.
Keywords— RFID, Smart Libraries, Security System, Automation, Self-Service, Inventory Management.