Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Digital Commons Network™

Open Access. Powered by Scholars. Published by Universities.®

Articles 31 - 60 of 341

Full-Text Articles in Entire DC Network

Modelling And Mapping Of Forest Biodiversity Indicators Using Sentinel-2 And Planetscope Remotely Sensed Data, Diana L. Tesha, Ernest W. Mauya, Sami D. Madundo Apr 2024

Modelling And Mapping Of Forest Biodiversity Indicators Using Sentinel-2 And Planetscope Remotely Sensed Data, Diana L. Tesha, Ernest W. Mauya, Sami D. Madundo

Tanzania Journal of Science

Tropical montane forests harbour exceptionally high biodiversity yet face severe threats from human activities. Assessing forest biodiversity over large areas is crucial yet extremely challenging. Remote sensing provides an efficient monitoring solution, but few studies have focused on Tanzania's diverse, montane forests. We collected field data on tree species composition within 159 plots across montane forests in Tanzania's West Usambara region. We calculated species richness, evenness, and Shannon diversity index as indicators of tree diversity. Using Sentinel-2 and PlanetScope satellite imagery, we derived spectral, textural, and vegetation index predictors to model these indices via generalized additive models and extreme gradient …


Molecular Characterisation Of Traditional Cashew (Anacardium Occidentale L.) Populations From Nachingwea And Newala Districts In Tanzania, Hussein R. Chiumbi, Hashim M. Mangosongo Jan 2024

Molecular Characterisation Of Traditional Cashew (Anacardium Occidentale L.) Populations From Nachingwea And Newala Districts In Tanzania, Hussein R. Chiumbi, Hashim M. Mangosongo

Tanzania Journal of Science

This study assessed the genetic diversity of 120 selected cashew plants from Nachingwea and Newala traditional cashew populations, comprising of 60 cashew plants from each population. Eight Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) makers were used to ascertain the extent of genetic variation within and between the two traditional cashew populations. Genomic DNA extraction and Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) were performed using standard protocols. The results showed that all SSR markers were polymorphic. Average Polymorphic Information Content (PIC), heterozygosity, number of alleles per locus, allelic frequency and Shannon’s Index were 0.540, 0.721, 3.391, 0.666 and 0.649, respectively. Analysis of molecular variance results …


Microbial Quality Of Fresh Juices Sold By Street Vendors And Associated Human Health Risks: The Case Of Ilala Ward, Dar Es Salaam City, Tanzania, Juliana I. Rubaratuka, Godwill D. Mrema, Thomas J. Lyimo Jan 2024

Microbial Quality Of Fresh Juices Sold By Street Vendors And Associated Human Health Risks: The Case Of Ilala Ward, Dar Es Salaam City, Tanzania, Juliana I. Rubaratuka, Godwill D. Mrema, Thomas J. Lyimo

Tanzania Journal of Science

Microbial food quality serves to indicate health risks associated with the consumption of contaminated foods. This study aimed to determine the microbial quality of fresh juices and the level of awareness and perception of the consumers and juice vendors at Ilala Ward, Dar es Salaam. Fresh samples of sugarcane, mango and mixed fruit juices were collected from four different sampling stations and analysed using standard methods for Total Coliform (TC), Faecal Coliform (FC) and Total Viable Count (TVC). The level of awareness and perception of 60 juice vendors and 60 consumers were also assessed by using questionnaires. The results showed …


Population Genetic Structure And Demographic History Of Opsaridium Microcephulum Along Lake Nyasa, Alex Nehemia, Alinanuswe J. Mwakalesi Jan 2024

Population Genetic Structure And Demographic History Of Opsaridium Microcephulum Along Lake Nyasa, Alex Nehemia, Alinanuswe J. Mwakalesi

Tanzania Journal of Science

The Sanjika, Opsaridium microcephalum is among the fish species that serve as a major source of proteins and income to people along Lake Nyasa. However, the information on its genetic diversity and structure particularly in the Tanzania part of the Lake is limited. Therefore, the assessment of the genetic diversity and structure of O.microcephalum along the Lake Nyasa part of Tanzania was conducted in the current study using a fragment of the mitochondrial COI gene from 92 individuals of O. microcephalum. The findings showed that an average haplotype diversity and average nucleotide diversity were 0.8065 ± 0.0314 and 0.002380 ± …


Evaluation Of The Modulatory Effects Of Capsicum Chinensis Methanol Extract In Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Neuropathic Pain In Mice, Babatunde A. Alabi, Adeyinka Aderonmu, Sodiq K. Lawal, Okot-Asi T. Nku-Ekpang, Mayowa Ajayi, Olugbenga E. Iwalewa Jan 2024

Evaluation Of The Modulatory Effects Of Capsicum Chinensis Methanol Extract In Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Neuropathic Pain In Mice, Babatunde A. Alabi, Adeyinka Aderonmu, Sodiq K. Lawal, Okot-Asi T. Nku-Ekpang, Mayowa Ajayi, Olugbenga E. Iwalewa

Tanzania Journal of Science

Diabetes is one of the common causes of neuropathic pain. The first-line treatment drugs used in alleviating neuropathic pain can cause adverse effects. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the analgesic property of Capsicum chinensis, since the plant was reported to be used against chronic pain in traditional medicine. Streptozotocin-induced diabetes was adopted to model neuropathy in mice and the antihyperalgesic effect of the extract was evaluated using a hot plate test, cold allodynia test, and Randall- Selitto paw pressure test. The plasma level of pain-associated inflammatory biomarkers like interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tissue necrotic factor-α (TNF-α) was …


Woody Plant Assemblages Of Recently Declared Village Land Forest Reserve In The Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, Samora Macrice Andrew Jan 2024

Woody Plant Assemblages Of Recently Declared Village Land Forest Reserve In The Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, Samora Macrice Andrew

Tanzania Journal of Science

Understanding of species composition of village land forest reserves and their driving factors informs adequate development of effective restoration strategies and sustainable forest management of miombo woodlands. This study assessed the effects of human disturbance as well as environmental variables on woody plant species composition using 24 square plots of 10 x 10 m in a recently declared village land forest reserve in the Eastern Afromontane biodiversity hotspot of Tanzania. Ordination analysis technique canonical correspondence analysis was used to identify important vegetation gradients and significant factors that explain the spatial variation in species composition of woody plants. Results showed that, …


Woody Species Composition, Structure, Regeneration Status And Carbon Storage Of Mkulazi Forest Reserve In Tanzania, Ezekiel E. Mwakalukwa, Christoganus John, Paulo J. Lyimo Jan 2024

Woody Species Composition, Structure, Regeneration Status And Carbon Storage Of Mkulazi Forest Reserve In Tanzania, Ezekiel E. Mwakalukwa, Christoganus John, Paulo J. Lyimo

Tanzania Journal of Science

Little is known about the status of forest condition and carbon storage potential of Mkulazi forest reserve (MFR) located in Morogoro District, Tanzania. This study was conducted to assess i) woody species composition, richness and diversity, ii) stand structure, iii) regeneration status and iv) carbon storage. Data collection for vegetation involved establishment of 100 concentric circular sample plots in the forest area of 65,710 ha. A total of 54 plant species for trees and shrubs with DBH ≥ 5 cm that belongs to 20 plant families were identified. The diversity of woody species was high (H’ = 3.11), while Stem …


Gene Flow Between The Wild Rice Species (Oryza Longistaminata) And Two Varieties Of Cultivated Rice (Oryza Sativa) In Kilombero District, Tanzania, Hashim M. Mangosongo, Emmarold E. Mneney, Bramwel Wanjala Jan 2024

Gene Flow Between The Wild Rice Species (Oryza Longistaminata) And Two Varieties Of Cultivated Rice (Oryza Sativa) In Kilombero District, Tanzania, Hashim M. Mangosongo, Emmarold E. Mneney, Bramwel Wanjala

Tanzania Journal of Science

The direction and rate of gene flow between the perennial wild rice species, O. longistaminata and cultivated rice, O. sativa was investigated using nine Microsatellite (SSR) markers. The study involved characterization of parental lines of two cultivated rice varieties and O. longistaminata and their F1 progenies. Presence of crop-specific alleles in the wild species or vice-versa was used as an indicator of occurrence of gene flow between the two species. The study revealed that gene flow between O. longistaminata and each of the two varieties of O. sativa occurs naturally. The direction of gene flow was mainly from the cultivated …


Potential Of Endophytic Fungal Isolates In Improving Productivity And Postharvest Marketable Fruit Qualities Of Tomato, Gabriel Michael, Emmanuel M. Sangu Jan 2024

Potential Of Endophytic Fungal Isolates In Improving Productivity And Postharvest Marketable Fruit Qualities Of Tomato, Gabriel Michael, Emmanuel M. Sangu

Tanzania Journal of Science

In Tanzania, low tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) yield and postharvest marketable fruit qualities remain significant limitations for tomato grower’s profit. Seven endophytic fungal isolates from pyrethrum and Lemongrass leaf and or flowers were evaluated to promote tomato productivity and fruit qualities. The isolates were inoculated by priming the seeds in spore suspension, and the variations in the number of germinated seeds, seedling vigour, yield and fruit qualities were compared across the treatments. It was observed that only three isolates induced more than 50% seed germination. Epf1 and Epl1 isolates showed significant promotion of seed germination (F 0.05 (pdf, 23) = 8.121 …


Potential Of Endophytic Fungal Isolates In Improving Productivity And Postharvest Marketable Fruit Qualities Of Tomato, Gabriel Michael, Emmanuel M. Sangu Jan 2024

Potential Of Endophytic Fungal Isolates In Improving Productivity And Postharvest Marketable Fruit Qualities Of Tomato, Gabriel Michael, Emmanuel M. Sangu

Tanzania Journal of Science

In Tanzania, low tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) yield and postharvest marketable fruit qualities remain significant limitations for tomato grower’s profit. Seven endophytic fungal isolates from pyrethrum and Lemongrass leaf and or flowers were evaluated to promote tomato productivity and fruit qualities. The isolates were inoculated by priming the seeds in spore suspension, and the variations in the number of germinated seeds, seedling vigour, yield and fruit qualities were compared across the treatments. It was observed that only three isolates induced more than 50% seed germination. Epf1 and Epl1 isolates showed significant promotion of seed germination (F 0.05 (pdf, 23) = 8.121 …


Scientific Landscape On Phthalates Biodegradation Research: A Bibliometric And Scientometric Study, Sai Ngassa, Cyprian Mpinda, Kessy F. Kilulya, Rose Masalu Oct 2023

Scientific Landscape On Phthalates Biodegradation Research: A Bibliometric And Scientometric Study, Sai Ngassa, Cyprian Mpinda, Kessy F. Kilulya, Rose Masalu

Tanzania Journal of Science

This study investigated the scientific landscape of research on phthalate esters biodegradation using the Web of Science database up to 2022. The collected data were analysed using bibliometric and scientometric tools. A total of 863 scholarly documents published between 1975 and 2022 in 266 journals were selected for analysis. The analysis revealed a growth rate of 6.9% in the research field, with an average document age of 10.8 years. The trend in phthalate biodegradation research showed a steady increase in citations until 1997, followed by a slight decrease until 2005, but experienced renewed interest in 2006 and significant growth in …


Habitat Use And Diet Composition Of The Common Eland (Tragelaphus Oryx) In Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Gregory A. Mtega, Cuthbert L. Nahonyo, Steven Temu, George Sangu, John Bukombe Oct 2023

Habitat Use And Diet Composition Of The Common Eland (Tragelaphus Oryx) In Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Gregory A. Mtega, Cuthbert L. Nahonyo, Steven Temu, George Sangu, John Bukombe

Tanzania Journal of Science

Ngorongoro Conservation Area (NCA) is renowned worldwide for its multiple land use where pastoralism and wildlife conservation co-exist. Thus, the NCA must meet a delicate balance of competing needs between livestock and wildlife. Currently the NCA is  conducting resettlement program to facilitate pastoralists who are willing to move and resettle outside of the conservation area in order to reduce the number of people and livestocks in NCA. The common eland (Tragelaphus oryx) are among the large herbivore species found in the NCA that might be affected by possible competition between livestock and wildlife. The information on this species including habitat …


Anticancer Potential Of The Leaf Extracts From The Selected Croton Species, Peter V. Fayyu, Joan J.E. Munissi, Stephen S. Nyandoro, Flora Stephano Oct 2023

Anticancer Potential Of The Leaf Extracts From The Selected Croton Species, Peter V. Fayyu, Joan J.E. Munissi, Stephen S. Nyandoro, Flora Stephano

Tanzania Journal of Science

The reported investigations were aimed at establishing anticancer potential of the leaf extracts from Croton dictyophlebodes (CDE), C. kilwae (CKE) and C. longipedicellatus ssp austrotanzanicus (CLE). In vitro cytotoxicity assays of the extracts were performed against human laryngeal cancer cell line (HEp-2) and human breast cancer cell line (MCF-7), while in vivo toxicological studies were done using Swiss albino mice (Mus musculus) following the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development guideline number 423 of 2001. Results for in vitro assays revealed that CDE and CLE induced cytotoxicity to MCF-7 and HEp-2 cell lines at EC50 values of 86 and 63 …


Antidiabetic Potential Of Vitex Mombassae Fruits Extract In Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide Induced Diabetic Wistar Rat Model, Mussa B. Mbegeze, Joan J.E. Munissi, Flora Stephano, Ramadhani S.O. Nondo, Stephen S. Nyandoro Oct 2023

Antidiabetic Potential Of Vitex Mombassae Fruits Extract In Streptozotocin-Nicotinamide Induced Diabetic Wistar Rat Model, Mussa B. Mbegeze, Joan J.E. Munissi, Flora Stephano, Ramadhani S.O. Nondo, Stephen S. Nyandoro

Tanzania Journal of Science

Besides changes in life styles and improper dietary patterns, the rapidly increasing burden of diabetes mellitus type 2 is correlated with antidiabetic agents currently in clinical use, which are costly, less effective, and present undesirable side effects. Natural products from plants are promising alternative sources for developing more effective and cost friendly antidiabetic agents. This study therefore investigated the antidiabetic potential of Vitex mombassae fruits extract (VMFE) in streptozotocin-nicotinamide induced diabetic Wistar rat model. Oral acute toxicity test was conducted in male Wistar rat using up and down method by following OECD Guideline 423 (2002). No clinical signs of toxicity …


Phytochemical Constituents Of Cissus Oliveri Growing In Pwani Region, Tanzania, Fadhili S. Estomini, Stephen I. Nnungu, Amelia S. Buriyo Oct 2023

Phytochemical Constituents Of Cissus Oliveri Growing In Pwani Region, Tanzania, Fadhili S. Estomini, Stephen I. Nnungu, Amelia S. Buriyo

Tanzania Journal of Science

Cissus oliveri (Engl.) Gilg ex Engl. is among the plant species of the family Vitaceae widely used in traditional medicine for management of different ailments. This study aimed at assessing the phytochemicals of C. oliveri parts in order to provide scientific validation for its use as a therapeutic agent. Qualitative analysis of water and ethanolic extracts was conducted by using standard methods and the results revealed that all the parts possess alkaloids, flavonoids, phenols and tannins. Similarly, glycosides and saponins were only present in leaf and root. Quantitative analysis performed by gravimetric and spectrophotometric methods showed that all parts contain …


Association Of Residual Feed Intake To Metrics Of Tanganyika Shorthorn Zebu Cattle In Maswa And Misungwi Districts, Tanzania, Godfrey L. Chasama, Fred D. Chibwana, Aloyce S. Hepelwa, Jestina V. Katandukila Oct 2023

Association Of Residual Feed Intake To Metrics Of Tanganyika Shorthorn Zebu Cattle In Maswa And Misungwi Districts, Tanzania, Godfrey L. Chasama, Fred D. Chibwana, Aloyce S. Hepelwa, Jestina V. Katandukila

Tanzania Journal of Science

Increasing competition for feed resources and greenhouse gases pollution have been compelling beef production systems to operate at higher feed utilization. These challenges imply the need to breed cattle for Residual Feed Intake (RFI) to lower feeding costs and enteric methane production per output. To explore relevant indicator traits of RFI, this study investigated the association of RFI to Tanganyika Shorthorn Zebu (TSZ) cattle metrics from the Misungwi and Maswa Districts of Tanzania, where Tarime and Sukuma ecotypes are common. A correlation study involving the fattening of twenty-eight TSZ bulls was conducted at Tanzania Livestock Research Institute -Mabuki. From the …


Effects Of Bacillus Thuringiensis, Beauveria Bassiana, Neem, And A Tomato Inter-Crop On Diamondback Moth (Plutella Xylostella L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) In Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya, Ceciliah N. Ngugi, Jesca N. Mbaka Mbaka, Hellen W. Muthengi Sep 2023

Effects Of Bacillus Thuringiensis, Beauveria Bassiana, Neem, And A Tomato Inter-Crop On Diamondback Moth (Plutella Xylostella L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) In Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya, Ceciliah N. Ngugi, Jesca N. Mbaka Mbaka, Hellen W. Muthengi

Tanzania Journal of Science

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. capitata) is an important crop in Kenya, ranked 3rd among the exotic vegetables. Diamondback moth (DBM) is a major cabbage pest that can cause a 100% loss in yield if not well managed. Farmers indiscriminately use synthetic pesticides associated with environmental, health, and pest resistance concerns to manage the DBM. To increase the availability of technologies for effective management of DBM in Kenya, three biopesticides; BioPower (Beauveria bassiana 1.0 x 108 CFUs/g), Dipel DF® (Bacillus thuringiensis subsp. kurstaki), Neemraj Super 3000 (Azadirachtin 0.3% EC), and a tomato inter-crop were evaluated. Cabbages (30 plants) spaced at 40 …


Spirulina (Arthrospira Fusiformis, Gomont 1892) As A High-Quality Feed Ingredient For Nile Tilapia Fingerlings, Angelina Michael, Margareth S. Kyewalyanga, Charles V. Lugomela Sep 2023

Spirulina (Arthrospira Fusiformis, Gomont 1892) As A High-Quality Feed Ingredient For Nile Tilapia Fingerlings, Angelina Michael, Margareth S. Kyewalyanga, Charles V. Lugomela

Tanzania Journal of Science

A partially randomized experimental design was conducted to evaluate the effect and potential of spirulina species (Arthrospira fusiformis) isolated from Momela Lakes, Tanzania, on the growth, antioxidant capacity, feed utilization, and body composition of Nile tilapia fingerlings. Five dietary treatments were formulated, including spirulina meal at 5%, 10%, and 15% of the total diets, as well as control diets with freshwater shrimp or Lake Victoria sardine. The protein content of the experimental diets was 25, 28, and 35% for a treatment containing spirulina at 5, 10, and 15% inclusion, respectively, while the control diets had 35% crude protein each. After …


Ethnobotanical Survey On The Knowledge And Use Of Medicinal Plants For Malaria Management Among University Students, Felista W. Mwingira, Deokary J. Matiya, Neema G. Mogha Sep 2023

Ethnobotanical Survey On The Knowledge And Use Of Medicinal Plants For Malaria Management Among University Students, Felista W. Mwingira, Deokary J. Matiya, Neema G. Mogha

Tanzania Journal of Science

Malaria remains a public health problem in Tanzania, escalated by the emergence of both parasite and vector resistance. Plant-based traditional medicines have been widely utilized as alternatives to malaria management. However, proper documentation is minimal, especially among the younger generation. This study assessed the knowledge of medicinal plants for malaria management among 532 Dar es Salaam University College of Education students. Overall, twenty-four plant species, most belonging to the family Asteraceae, were identified with Azaradichta indica being the most dominant species. These results reveal a substantial knowledge of medicinal plants for malaria management among university students.


Public Perceptions Of Water Quality In The Lake Bunyonyi Sub-Catchment, Western Uganda, Alex Saturday, Thomas J. Lyimo, Siajali Pamba, Susan Kangume, Jeniffer Turyatemba Sep 2023

Public Perceptions Of Water Quality In The Lake Bunyonyi Sub-Catchment, Western Uganda, Alex Saturday, Thomas J. Lyimo, Siajali Pamba, Susan Kangume, Jeniffer Turyatemba

Tanzania Journal of Science

Lake Bunyonyi ecosystem plays vital roles in water resource conservancy and tourism. Nevertheless, the rapid increase in human population and the unrelenting human activities are threatening the values, functions, and ecological integrity of the lake. In this study, the public perceptions of drinking water quality and its health implications in the Lake Bunyonyi Sub-catchment, Western Uganda are presented. A closed-ended questionnaire was administered to 267 respondents living within one Kilometre away from the lake shores. Besides, observation and interview methods were used to complement data collected by the questionnaire method. Results indicate that the prominent activities around the lake are …


The Presence Of Unusual Foramina In The Femoral Intercondylar And Trochanteric Fossae On Skeletonized Individuals From Tanzania, Wilson Jilala, David Ngassapa, Ali Hamad Jun 2023

The Presence Of Unusual Foramina In The Femoral Intercondylar And Trochanteric Fossae On Skeletonized Individuals From Tanzania, Wilson Jilala, David Ngassapa, Ali Hamad

Tanzania Journal of Science

According to the standard nomenclature, skeletal land marks are all identified by their given names in the world of human skeletal anatomy. But it is also clear that the discovery of new anatomical features continues because human beings have so many anatomical variations caused by genetics, functions, geographical adaptations, and diseases; they are all described and given names. Therefore, an anatomical feature that is rare and undescribed is certainly a discovery and it deserves to be recorded. The discovery of anatomical features on the epiphyseial ends of the femur reported here adds two new names, namely the intercondylar fossa foramen …


Prevalence And Burden Of Gastrointestinal Parasites Among University Students At Dar Es Salaam University College Of Education, Tanzania, Magreth Fulgence, Ummul-Khair Mustafa, Jared S. Bakuza Jun 2023

Prevalence And Burden Of Gastrointestinal Parasites Among University Students At Dar Es Salaam University College Of Education, Tanzania, Magreth Fulgence, Ummul-Khair Mustafa, Jared S. Bakuza

Tanzania Journal of Science

Gastrointestinal parasites cause major health problems in many tropical and sub-tropical countries including Tanzania. However, information on the status of these infections is often scanty, especially among young adults including students in higher learning institutions.  During December 2020 to June 2021, a total of 272 faecal samples from university students at Dar es Salaam University College of Education (DUCE) were examined for parasites using the Kato Katz technique and analysed for infection levels based on standard guidelines. Detected parasites were identified as Schistosoma mansoni (8.1%), hookworms (1.5%), Trichuris trichiura (0.4%) and Hymenolepis diminuta (0.4%), with an overall prevalence of 10.4%. …


Leptospira Serovars Circulating Among Human, Cattle And Goats With Associated Risk Factors In Ngara And Kibondo Districts, North-Western Tanzania, Jestina V. Katandukila, Ackrey G. Sissa, Ginethon G. Mhaphi, Yeremia J. Chuhila, Fred D. Chibwana Jun 2023

Leptospira Serovars Circulating Among Human, Cattle And Goats With Associated Risk Factors In Ngara And Kibondo Districts, North-Western Tanzania, Jestina V. Katandukila, Ackrey G. Sissa, Ginethon G. Mhaphi, Yeremia J. Chuhila, Fred D. Chibwana

Tanzania Journal of Science

Leptospirosis is a neglected zoonotic disease, prominent in north-western Tanzania where interactions among humans, livestock and wildlife is high. This study therefore, assessed Leptospira seroprevalence and associated risk factors by screening Leptospira serovars from blood sera of cattle, goats and humans in Ngara and Kibondo Districts using Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). Blood sera were positive for seven Leptospira serovars in which Sokoine, Sejroe and Grippotyhposa had higher seropositivity of ≥ 20.9%, whereas Leptospira serovars Kenya, Pomona, Lora, and Bataviae had seropositivity of < 10%. Variation of seropositivity and seroprevalence between Ngara and Kibondo Districts was insignificant (p = 0.0718) but varied significantly between humans, goats and cattle (p = 0.0183). Leptospira serovars Sejroe and Grippotyphosa were present in humans, goats and cattle. Sokoine, Pomona and Bataviae were co-positive in humans and goats, while serovars Kenya and Lora were co-positive in humans and cattle, indicating the possibility of dualistic transmission of Leptospira serovars in the ecosystem. Suggested risk factors associated with acquiring Leptospira bacteria were drinking contaminated water, feeding contaminated food and farming in contaminated soils. Prevalence of Leptospira in the current study alerts for health and economic risks in north-western Tanzania, which requires intensive education programs on leptospirosis transmission and avoidance.


Feeding Habits And Diet Composition Of The African Sacred Ibis In Selected Water-Logged Sites In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Jared S. Bakuza, Joyce Ndinadyo Jun 2023

Feeding Habits And Diet Composition Of The African Sacred Ibis In Selected Water-Logged Sites In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Jared S. Bakuza, Joyce Ndinadyo

Tanzania Journal of Science

The African Sacred Ibises Threskiornis aethiopicus are generalist birds that feed on many invertebrates and some vertebrates. However, the diet composition of local T. aethiopicus populations in wetland areas in Dar es Salaam Tanzania was unknown. Sacred Ibises from eight water-logged areas in Dar es Salaam City, Tanzania were studied to determine their feeding habits and diet composition using direct observations and molecular analysis of faecal samples. Snails species identified from sites frequented by T. aethiopicus included Lymnaea natalensis (61.62%), Melanoides tuberculatus (20.64%), Bulinus sp. (17.66%) and Anisus sp. (0.08%), while molecular analysis of the birds’ diet revealed presence of …


Efficacy Of The Botanical Extracts, Azadirachta Indica (Sapindales: Meliaceae) And Tagetes Minuta (Asterales: Asteraceae) In The Control Of Cabbage Insect Pests In Iringa District, Tanzania, Levocatus M. Rwegoshora, Vendeline E. Tairo, Moses I. Olotu Jun 2023

Efficacy Of The Botanical Extracts, Azadirachta Indica (Sapindales: Meliaceae) And Tagetes Minuta (Asterales: Asteraceae) In The Control Of Cabbage Insect Pests In Iringa District, Tanzania, Levocatus M. Rwegoshora, Vendeline E. Tairo, Moses I. Olotu

Tanzania Journal of Science

Although botanical extracts have been widely studied globally, the efficacy of neem and Mexican marigold against cabbage insect pests is scanty. Field experiments were conducted at Kalenga and Mgera in 2022 using a randomized complete block design. Four treatments (neem, Mexican marigold, a mixture of the two extracts and untreated) were replicated three times. In Kalenga, damage levels for treated plots varied significantly from 3.33 to 9.20% and 5.0 to 18.33%, while for untreated plots varied from 37.70 to 45.85% during the rainy and dry seasons, respectively (F(3, 499) = 111.71, p < 0.05). A similar trend was recorded in Mgera, the damage levels varied significantly between treated (4.44–15.83%) and untreated plots (34.40–46.60%) (F(3, 449) = 94.23, p < 0.05). Treated plots had higher marketable cabbage yields (30.6–43.10 t/ha) than untreated plots (4.78–11.20 t/ha), which differed significantly in Kalenga (F (3, 67) = 141.79, p < 0.05) and Mgera (F (3, 67) = 53.36, p < 0.05). These extracts have shown insecticidal properties, can serve as promising candidates for further studies aimed at isolating active compounds for scaling up ecologically friendly strategies of controlling pests and improve the quality of cabbage products.


Molecular Epidemiology Of Antibiotic Resistance Among Escherichia Coli Isolated From Broiler Chickens Sold At Selected Markets In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Abdilahi H. Kiula, Victor A. Makene Jun 2023

Molecular Epidemiology Of Antibiotic Resistance Among Escherichia Coli Isolated From Broiler Chickens Sold At Selected Markets In Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania, Abdilahi H. Kiula, Victor A. Makene

Tanzania Journal of Science

Unwarranted and improper uses of antibiotics in broiler farms contribute to the challenge of antibiotic resistance, making even previously treatable infections, difficult to treat. We conducted a cross sectional study from November 2021 to May 2022 from broiler chicken markets in four districts of Dar es Salaam to determine the extent of antibiotic resistance among E. coli isolates from broiler chickens. A total of 160 E. coli isolates recovered from cloacal swabs were identified by culture and biochemical tests and confirmed by Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) assays. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing, targeting seven classes of antibiotics, was performed by disk diffusion …


Ethnobotanical Survey, Consumption Pattern And Genetic Conservation Of Leafy Vegetables In South-West Nigeria, Temitope O Onuminya, Michael I Osundinakin, Oluwatoyin T Ogundipe Jun 2023

Ethnobotanical Survey, Consumption Pattern And Genetic Conservation Of Leafy Vegetables In South-West Nigeria, Temitope O Onuminya, Michael I Osundinakin, Oluwatoyin T Ogundipe

Tanzania Journal of Science

Leafy vegetables are important in human nutrition; however, their diversity as seen in the dishes in South western Nigeria appears to be diminishing. Many popular delicacies are no longer available in the markets. Therefore, this research was conducted to identify and document leafy vegetables in South West Nigeria, assess their ethnobotanical uses from questionnaires administered to farmers/sellers, secure their genetic resource base, and improve their value chain in South-West Nigeria. Vegetable samples were collected from different local communities in five South-West states in Nigeria, identified using manual/flora, and authenticated at the University of Lagos Herbarium. One thousand respondents, 200 in …


Genetic Analysis Reveals Substantial Proportion Of Non-Targeted Tilapias Among Farmed Stocks In Kilosa And Kibaha, Tanzania, Winifrida L Mbilinyi, Cyrus Rumisha, Augustine W Mwandya, George M Msalya Jun 2023

Genetic Analysis Reveals Substantial Proportion Of Non-Targeted Tilapias Among Farmed Stocks In Kilosa And Kibaha, Tanzania, Winifrida L Mbilinyi, Cyrus Rumisha, Augustine W Mwandya, George M Msalya

Tanzania Journal of Science

Nile tilapia farmers in Tanzania have been complaining about slow growth and low yields. Since some farmers obtain their seeds from unreliable sources, they may potentially be dealing with various non-targeted tilapias that require different environments and treatments to enhance growth and yields. Thus, this study analysed fragments (600 base pairs) of the cytochrome oxidase subunit I gene (COI) from 74 farmed tilapias in Kilosa and Kibaha, Tanzania to determine the presence of non-targeted tilapias. An additional 42 samples from the Magadu Fish Farm, Mindu dam, and Lake Victoria were included for comparison. The findings revealed that non-targeted tilapias accounted …


Ameliorative Effects Of Vitamins C And E On Haematotoxicity And Spleen Histopathology Induced By Dichlorvos Insecticide In Female Wistar Rats, Halima Mfaume, Harishchandra Pratap, Claudius Luziga, Felister Urasa Jun 2023

Ameliorative Effects Of Vitamins C And E On Haematotoxicity And Spleen Histopathology Induced By Dichlorvos Insecticide In Female Wistar Rats, Halima Mfaume, Harishchandra Pratap, Claudius Luziga, Felister Urasa

Tanzania Journal of Science

This research aimed to assess the toxicological effects of dichlorvos insecticide (2,2-dichlorovinyl dimethyl phosphate or DDVP) on haematological indices of female Wistar rats and to investigate the antioxidant properties of vitamins C and E in ameliorating haematotoxicity. The rats were divided into 6 groups; control-water, control-oil, dichlorvos group, dichlorvos + vitamin C group, dichlorvos + vitamin E group and dichlorvos + vitamin C + E group. Dichlorvos and vitamins were orally administered to rats with an interval of half an hour between treatments. The control-oil group was given 2 ml corn oil and the control-water group was given water adlib. …


Dna Barcoding Reveals Occurrence Of Cardiocephaloides Sp. (Digenea: Strigeidae) Infecting The Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax Carbo (L. 1758) In Mwanza Gulf, Lake Victoria, Fred D Chibwana Jun 2023

Dna Barcoding Reveals Occurrence Of Cardiocephaloides Sp. (Digenea: Strigeidae) Infecting The Great Cormorant Phalacrocorax Carbo (L. 1758) In Mwanza Gulf, Lake Victoria, Fred D Chibwana

Tanzania Journal of Science

Cormorants (Pelecaniformes) are widely distributed worldwide, occurring as coastal birds in inland waters and marine environments, and have been implicated in the transmission of some aquatic parasites. As such, the objective of the present work was to investigate the occurrence and morphological variations in Cardiocephaloides (Digenea: Strigeidae), parasites of the great cormorant Phalacrocorax carbo. The Cardiocephaloides specimens used for molecular analysis (DNA barcoding (cox1) region) were obtained from the intestines of the great cormorants collected from Mwanza Gulf in Lake Victoria. Morphological examination of Cardiocephaloides specimens showed the possible co-existence of four morphospecies belonging to the genus Cardiocephaloides. However, detailed …