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Articles 181 - 210 of 1443

Full-Text Articles in Life Sciences

Closing The Crop Yield Gap Between Organic And Conventional Farming Systems In Kenya: Long-Term Trial Research Indicates Agronomic Viability, David Bautze, Edward Karanja, Martha Musyoka, Johanna Rüegg, Eva Goldmann, Milka Kiboi, Ivonne Kampermann, Marc Cotter, Amritbir Riar, Felix Matheri, Edwin Mwangi, Monicah Mucheru-Muna, Hottensiah Wambui, John J. Anyango, Samuel Ndung'u, Chrysantus Tanga, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Jesca Mbaka, Anne Muriuki, David Kamau, Noah Adamtey Dec 2024

Closing The Crop Yield Gap Between Organic And Conventional Farming Systems In Kenya: Long-Term Trial Research Indicates Agronomic Viability, David Bautze, Edward Karanja, Martha Musyoka, Johanna Rüegg, Eva Goldmann, Milka Kiboi, Ivonne Kampermann, Marc Cotter, Amritbir Riar, Felix Matheri, Edwin Mwangi, Monicah Mucheru-Muna, Hottensiah Wambui, John J. Anyango, Samuel Ndung'u, Chrysantus Tanga, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Jesca Mbaka, Anne Muriuki, David Kamau, Noah Adamtey

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The production gap between current and attainable yields is highest on Africa's smallholder farms, and some studies indicate that they might not benefit from the yield gains offered by conventional farming. Simultaneously, alternative farming systems like organic provide biodiversity and soil fertility advantages, but their ability to produce sufficient food is still under debate. Additionally, comparative data on the productivity of organic versus conventional in tropical regions are scarce or short-term. We investigated the crop productivity of organic and conventional farming systems using 15 years in two long-term systems comparison trials in Kenya. The trials were established in 2007 at …

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Insights Into Malaria Vectors–Plant Interaction In A Dryland Ecosystem, Fiona Kinya, Trizah K. Milugo, Clifford M. Mutero, Charles S. Wondji, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi Dec 2024

Insights Into Malaria Vectors–Plant Interaction In A Dryland Ecosystem, Fiona Kinya, Trizah K. Milugo, Clifford M. Mutero, Charles S. Wondji, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi

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Improved understanding of mosquito–plant feeding interactions can reveal insights into the ecological dynamics of pathogen transmission. In wild malaria vectors Anopheles gambiae s.l. and An. funestus group surveyed in selected dryland ecosystems of Kenya, we found a low level of plant feeding (2.8%) using biochemical cold anthrone test but uncovered 14-fold (41%) higher rate via DNA barcoding targeting the chloroplast rbcL gene. Plasmodium falciparum positivity was associated with either reduced or increased total sugar levels and varied by mosquito species. Gut analysis revealed the mosquitoes to frequently feed on acacia plants (~ 89%) (mainly Vachellia tortilis) in the family Fabaceae. …

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Biological Reinforcement Learning Simulation For Natural Enemy -Host Behavior: Exploring Deep Learning Algorithms For Population Dynamics, Komi Mensah Agboka, Emmanuel Peter, Erion Bwambale, Bonoukpoè Mawuko Sokame Dec 2024

Biological Reinforcement Learning Simulation For Natural Enemy -Host Behavior: Exploring Deep Learning Algorithms For Population Dynamics, Komi Mensah Agboka, Emmanuel Peter, Erion Bwambale, Bonoukpoè Mawuko Sokame

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This study introduces a simulation of biological reinforcement learning to explore the behavior of natural enemies in the presence of host pests, aiming to analyze the population dynamics between natural enemies and insect pests within an ecological context. The simulation leverages on Q-learning, a reinforcement learning algorithm, to model the decision-making processes of both parasitoids/predators and pests, thereby assessing the impact of varying parasitism and predation rates on pest population growth. Simulation parameters, such as episode count, duration in months, steps, learning rate, and discount factor, were set arbitrarily. Environmental and reward matrices, representing climatic conditions, crop availability, and the …

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Biostimulant And Antagonistic Potential Of Endophytic Fungi Against Fusarium Wilt Pathogen Of Tomato Fusarium Oxysporum F. Sp. Lycopersici, Marie Cecile Muhorakeye, Everlyne Samita Namikoye, Fathiya M. Khamis, Waceke Wanjohi, Komivi S. Akutse Dec 2024

Biostimulant And Antagonistic Potential Of Endophytic Fungi Against Fusarium Wilt Pathogen Of Tomato Fusarium Oxysporum F. Sp. Lycopersici, Marie Cecile Muhorakeye, Everlyne Samita Namikoye, Fathiya M. Khamis, Waceke Wanjohi, Komivi S. Akutse

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Endophytic fungal-based biopesticides are sustainable and ecologically-friendly biocontrol agents of several pests and diseases. However, their potential in managing tomato fusarium wilt disease (FWD) remains unexploited. This study therefore evaluated effectiveness of nine fungal isolates against tomato fusarium wilt pathogen, Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici (FOL) in vitro using dual culture and co-culture assays. The efficacy of three potent endophytes that inhibited the pathogen in vitro was assessed against FWD incidence, severity, and ability to enhance growth and yield of tomatoes in planta. The ability of endophytically-colonized tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) plants to systemically defend themselves upon exposure to FOL …

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Biochemistry And Transcriptomic Analyses Of Phthorimaeaabsoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) Response To Insecticides, Samantha W. Karanu, Inusa J. Ajene, Elijah K. Lelmen, Maureen A. Ong’Onge, Komivi S. Akutse, Fathiya M. Khamis Dec 2024

Biochemistry And Transcriptomic Analyses Of Phthorimaeaabsoluta (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) Response To Insecticides, Samantha W. Karanu, Inusa J. Ajene, Elijah K. Lelmen, Maureen A. Ong’Onge, Komivi S. Akutse, Fathiya M. Khamis

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Phthorimaeaabsoluta is an invasive solanaceous plant pest with highly devastating effects on tomato plant. Heavy reliance on insecticide use to tackle the pest has been linked to insecticide resistance selection in P.absoluta populations. To underline insights on P.absoluta insecticide resistance mechanisms to diamides and avermectins, we evaluated the transcriptomic profile of parental (field-collected) and F8 (lab-reared) populations. Furthermore, to screen for the presence of organophosphate and pyrethroid resistance, we assessed the gene expression levels of acetylcholinesterase (ace1) and para-type voltage-gated sodium channel (VGSG) genes in the F1 to F8 lab-reared progeny of diamide and avermectin exposed P.absoluta field-collected populations. The …

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The Global Atlas Of Edible Insects: Analysis Of Diversity And Commonality Contributing To Food Systems And Sustainability, Evanson R. Omuse, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Honest Machekano, James Peter Egonyu, Emily Kimathi, Samira Faris Mohamed, Menale Kassie, Sevgan Subramanian, Juliet Onditi, Serah Mwangi, Sunday Ekesi, Saliou Niassy Dec 2024

The Global Atlas Of Edible Insects: Analysis Of Diversity And Commonality Contributing To Food Systems And Sustainability, Evanson R. Omuse, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Honest Machekano, James Peter Egonyu, Emily Kimathi, Samira Faris Mohamed, Menale Kassie, Sevgan Subramanian, Juliet Onditi, Serah Mwangi, Sunday Ekesi, Saliou Niassy

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The future of the food system on the planet is increasingly facing uncertainties that are attributable to population growth and a surge in demand for nutritious food. Traditional agricultural practices are poised to place strain on production, as well as natural resources and ecosystem services provided, particularly under a changing climate. Given their remarkable attributes, including a low environmental footprint, high food conversion ratio, rapid growth and nutritional values, edible insects can play a vital role in the global food system. Nonetheless, substantial knowledge gaps persist regarding their diversity, global distribution, and shared characteristics across regions, potentially impeding effective scaling …

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Community Perceptions, Acceptability, And The Durability Of House Screening Interventions Against Exposure To Malaria Vectors In Nyimba District, Zambia, Kochelani Saili, Christiaan De Jager, Freddie Masaninga, Brian Chisanga, Andy Sinyolo, Japhet Chiwaula, Jacob Chirwa, Busiku Hamainza, Emmanuel Chanda, Nathan N. Bakyaita, Clifford Maina Mutero Dec 2024

Community Perceptions, Acceptability, And The Durability Of House Screening Interventions Against Exposure To Malaria Vectors In Nyimba District, Zambia, Kochelani Saili, Christiaan De Jager, Freddie Masaninga, Brian Chisanga, Andy Sinyolo, Japhet Chiwaula, Jacob Chirwa, Busiku Hamainza, Emmanuel Chanda, Nathan N. Bakyaita, Clifford Maina Mutero

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Background: House screening remains conspicuously absent in national malaria programs despite its recognition by the World Health Organization as a supplementary malaria vector-control intervention. This may be attributed, in part, to the knowledge gap in screen durability or longevity in local climatic conditions and community acceptance under specific cultural practices and socio-economic contexts. The objectives of this study were to assess the durability of window and door wire mesh screens a year after full house screening and to assess the acceptability of the house screening intervention to the participants involved. Methods: This study was conducted in Nyimba district, Zambia and …

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Efficacy Of Banana Fibre Paper For The Management Of The Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne Incognita, On Potato (Solanum Tuberosum) In Kenya, Dorris W. Kamau, Wanjohi Waceke, Laura Cortada, Onesmus Mwaura, Tahira Pirzada, Tim L. Sit, Eric Davis, Dick Guenther, Reny Mathew, Lokendra Pal, Saad Khan, Solveig Haukeland, James Kisaakye, Charles Opperman, Danny Coyne Nov 2024

Efficacy Of Banana Fibre Paper For The Management Of The Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne Incognita, On Potato (Solanum Tuberosum) In Kenya, Dorris W. Kamau, Wanjohi Waceke, Laura Cortada, Onesmus Mwaura, Tahira Pirzada, Tim L. Sit, Eric Davis, Dick Guenther, Reny Mathew, Lokendra Pal, Saad Khan, Solveig Haukeland, James Kisaakye, Charles Opperman, Danny Coyne

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Globally, potato (Solanum tuberosum) is a key staple food crop. In Kenya, it is the second most important food crop after maize. Among the various constraints to potato production are plant-parasitic nematodes. In particular, root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are a significant impediment to potato production, suppressing yield and reducing the quality of harvested tubers. The current study was undertaken to evaluate the efficacy of a lignocellulose fibre matrix (banana paper) either impregnated with a chemical or drenched with a biologically-based nematicide for the management of root-knot nematodes on potatoes, in Kenya. The experiment was conducted in both field and pot …

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Ipydisp V2 Alias Dudutracker: A Web-Based Version, Komi Mensah Agboka, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Samira A. Mohamed, Sunday Ekesi Nov 2024

Ipydisp V2 Alias Dudutracker: A Web-Based Version, Komi Mensah Agboka, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Samira A. Mohamed, Sunday Ekesi

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This study presents the updated version v2 of IpyDisp named DuduTracker which improves on the window-only-requirement of IpyDisp. The updated version is web-based that can be used in alternative operating systems like Ubuntu, Mac, Linux, and others. The update's effectiveness was also evaluated using a survey involving a diverse range of users including students, data analysts, and academic researchers from different age groups, geographical locations, and computer literacy levels. Areas for future enhancement were identified, primarily focused on making the software responsive to various screen types and improving certain interface aspects.

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A Randomized Controlled Trial Of Tickoff® (Metarhizium Anisopliae Icipe 7) For Control Of Tick Infestations And Transmission Of Tick-Borne Infections In Extensively Grazed Zebu Cattle In Coastal Kenya, Joseph Wang Ang’A Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Gerrit Gort, Gebbiena M. Bron, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Quirine Ten Bosch, Daniel Masiga Nov 2024

A Randomized Controlled Trial Of Tickoff® (Metarhizium Anisopliae Icipe 7) For Control Of Tick Infestations And Transmission Of Tick-Borne Infections In Extensively Grazed Zebu Cattle In Coastal Kenya, Joseph Wang Ang’A Oundo, Shewit Kalayou, Gerrit Gort, Gebbiena M. Bron, Constantianus J.M. Koenraadt, Quirine Ten Bosch, Daniel Masiga

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The entomopathogenic fungus Metarhizium anisopliae isolate ICIPE 7 is being developed as an eco-friendly alternative to chemical acaricides in managing natural tick infestation on livestock. Its impact on tick infestation and tick-borne infections in cattle under natural conditions are yet unclear. We conducted a randomized controlled field trial to assess the safety and effects of Tickoff® (a formulation of M. anisopliae isolate ICIPE 7) and the chemical acaricide Triatix® on tick infestation and incidence of Anaplasma marginale and Theileria parva in extensively grazed zebu cattle in coastal Kenya. A total of 217 eligible herds comprising 1459 intent-to-treat zebu cattle were …

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An Overview Of Tsetse Fly Repellents: Identification And Applications, Olabimpe Y. Orubuloye, Njelembo J. Mbewe, David P. Tchouassi, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Christian W.W. Pirk, Baldwyn Torto Nov 2024

An Overview Of Tsetse Fly Repellents: Identification And Applications, Olabimpe Y. Orubuloye, Njelembo J. Mbewe, David P. Tchouassi, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Christian W.W. Pirk, Baldwyn Torto

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Tsetse flies are vectors of the parasite trypanosoma that cause the neglected tropical diseases human and animal African trypanosomosis. Semiochemicals play important roles in the biology and ecology of tsetse flies. Previous reviews have focused on olfactory-based attractants of tsetse flies. Here, we present an overview of the identification of repellents and their development into control tools for tsetse flies. Both natural and synthetic repellents have been successfully tested in laboratory and field assays against specific tsetse fly species. Thus, these repellents presented as innovative mobile tools offer opportunities for their use in integrated disease management strategies.

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Tritrophic Interactions Mediated By Zoophytophagous Predator-Induced Host Plant Volatiles, Bashiru Adams, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Baldwyn Torto, Fathiya Mbarak Khamis Nov 2024

Tritrophic Interactions Mediated By Zoophytophagous Predator-Induced Host Plant Volatiles, Bashiru Adams, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Baldwyn Torto, Fathiya Mbarak Khamis

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The zoophytophagous mirid predator Nesidiocoris tenuis and the ectoparasitoid Stenomesius japonicus are important biological control agents for several agricultural pests including the invasive leafminer, Phthorimaea absoluta, a destructive pest of Solanaceous crops especially tomato in sub-Saharan Africa. However, little is known about how feeding by N. tenuis can influence the tritrophic interactions in the tomato plant. Here, we tested the hypothesis that N. tenuis phytophagy would influence the tritrophic olfactory interactions between the host plant tomato and pest, predator, and parasitoid. In olfactometer assays, P. absoluta females and N. tenuis adults were both attracted to constitutive volatiles released by the …

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Biology Of Diachasmimorpha Longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) Reared On Third Instar Larvae Of Bactrocera Dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae), Karim Nébié, Rémy Anogmain Dabiré, Alassane Koussoubé, Issaka Zida, Alizèta Sawadogo, Lucien Sawadogo, Antoine Richard Tiendrébéogo, Boureima Tassembédo, Rabiéta Semdé, Lenli Claude Otoidobiga, Saliou Niassy Sep 2024

Biology Of Diachasmimorpha Longicaudata (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) Reared On Third Instar Larvae Of Bactrocera Dorsalis (Diptera: Tephritidae), Karim Nébié, Rémy Anogmain Dabiré, Alassane Koussoubé, Issaka Zida, Alizèta Sawadogo, Lucien Sawadogo, Antoine Richard Tiendrébéogo, Boureima Tassembédo, Rabiéta Semdé, Lenli Claude Otoidobiga, Saliou Niassy

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The biology of Diachasmimorpha longicaudata (Ashmead) was studied on third instar larvae of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) to optimize its mass rearing in the laboratory. The mean parasitoid emergence rate ranged from 55–92% during its first 13 days of life. The number of females was higher than that of males. The mean development time from egg to adult emergence was 20.14± 0.02 days in females and 17.72± 0.02 days in males. Fed females lived longer than fed males. Food-deprived females and males lived 72 hr after emergence. The lifespan of males and females was 16.42± 0.53 and 15.86± 0.35 days, respectively, …

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Network Resilience Of Plant-Bee Interactions In The Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, Fairo F. Dzekashu, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Kazuhiro Takemoto, Marcell K. Peters, H. Michael G. Lattorff, Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter, Christian W.W. Pirk Sep 2024

Network Resilience Of Plant-Bee Interactions In The Eastern Afromontane Biodiversity Hotspot, Fairo F. Dzekashu, Abdullahi A. Yusuf, Kazuhiro Takemoto, Marcell K. Peters, H. Michael G. Lattorff, Ingolf Steffan-Dewenter, Christian W.W. Pirk

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Interaction network resilience can be defined as the ability of interacting organisms to maintain their functions, processes or populations after experiencing a disturbance. Studies on mutualistic interactions between plants and pollinators along environmental gradients are essential to understand the provision of ecosystem services and the mechanisms challenging their network resilience. However, it remains unknown to what level ecological changes along climatic gradients constrain the network resilience of mutualistic organisms, especially along elevation gradients. We surveyed bee species and recorded their interactions with plants throughout the four major seasons (i.e. long and short rainy, and long and short dry) on 50 …

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Modeling Integrated Soil Fertility Management For Maize Production In Kenya Using A Bayesian Calibration Of The Daycent Model, Moritz Laub, Magdalena Necpalova, Marijn Van De Broek, Marc Corbeels, Samuel Mathu Ndungu, Monicah Wanjiku Mucheru-Muna, Daniel Mugendi, Rebecca Yegon, Wycliffe Waswa, Bernard Vanlauwe, Johan Six Aug 2024

Modeling Integrated Soil Fertility Management For Maize Production In Kenya Using A Bayesian Calibration Of The Daycent Model, Moritz Laub, Magdalena Necpalova, Marijn Van De Broek, Marc Corbeels, Samuel Mathu Ndungu, Monicah Wanjiku Mucheru-Muna, Daniel Mugendi, Rebecca Yegon, Wycliffe Waswa, Bernard Vanlauwe, Johan Six

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Sustainable intensification schemes such as integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) are a proposed strategy to close yield gaps, increase soil fertility, and achieve food security in sub-Saharan Africa. Biogeochemical models such as DayCent can assess their potential at larger scales, but these models need to be calibrated to new environments and rigorously tested for accuracy. Here, we present a Bayesian calibration of DayCent, using data from four long-term field experiments in Kenya in a leave-one-site-out cross-validation approach. The experimental treatments consisted of the addition of low- to high-quality organic resources, with and without mineral nitrogen fertilizer. We assessed the potential …

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Towards Accurate Spatial Prediction Of Glossina Pallidipes Relative Densities At Country-Scale In Kenya, Stella Gachoki, Thomas A. Groen, Anton Vrieling, Andrew Skidmore, Daniel Masiga Jul 2024

Towards Accurate Spatial Prediction Of Glossina Pallidipes Relative Densities At Country-Scale In Kenya, Stella Gachoki, Thomas A. Groen, Anton Vrieling, Andrew Skidmore, Daniel Masiga

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Vector-borne diseases, like those transmitted by tsetse flies, pose a significant global public health threat. Reducing vector populations is a promising strategy for disease control, especially in the case of tsetse-transmitted African trypanosomiasis. However, the cost-effective implementation of large-scale vector surveillance and control measures face challenges due to the lack of spatially explicit and reliable maps identifying vector hotspots. In this study, we assessed the accuracy of predicting Glossina pallidipes relative densities across Kenya by linking constrained in-situ tsetse catch data from 660 traps across three Kenyan regions with readily available gridded satellite information (human population, land cover, soil properties, …

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Economic Impact Of A Classical Biological Control Program: Application To Diachasmimorpha Longicaudata Against Bactrocera Dorsalis Fruit Fly In Kenya, Komi Mensah Agboka, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Saliou Niassy, Shepard Ndlela, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Samira A. Mohamed, Sunday Ekesi Jun 2024

Economic Impact Of A Classical Biological Control Program: Application To Diachasmimorpha Longicaudata Against Bactrocera Dorsalis Fruit Fly In Kenya, Komi Mensah Agboka, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Saliou Niassy, Shepard Ndlela, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Samira A. Mohamed, Sunday Ekesi

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Classical biological control (CBC) has been exploited as a safer alternative for suppressing the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, by importing, rearing, and releasing the larval parasitoid, Diachasmimorpha longicaudata. Although D. longicaudata has been released in Kenya through the Africa Fruit Fly Programme, the extent of its dispersal and subsequent economic benefits have not yet been established. This paper models the spatio-temporal dispersal of the parasitoid using the fuzzy cellular automata approaches and estimates the net benefit from each dollar invested in the CBC approach. We calculated the return on investment based on funding into the programme between 2006 and …

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Physicochemical Properties Of Edible Cricket Oils: Implications For Use In Pharmaceutical And Food Industries, Dorothy K. Murugu, Arnold N. Onyango, Alex K. Ndiritu, Dorothy N. Nyangena, Isaac M. Osuga, Xavier Cheseto, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jun 2024

Physicochemical Properties Of Edible Cricket Oils: Implications For Use In Pharmaceutical And Food Industries, Dorothy K. Murugu, Arnold N. Onyango, Alex K. Ndiritu, Dorothy N. Nyangena, Isaac M. Osuga, Xavier Cheseto, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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The prevailing global market demands locally produced, sustainable oils for biomedical applications. This study focused on evaluating the quality of cricket-derived oils and meals from Scapsipedus icipe Hugel, Tanga, and Gryllus bimaculatus De Geer common delicacy in Africa, following standard methods for physicochemical properties, fatty acid composition, and phytochemicals (oxalates, phytates, tannins, and polyphenols). The cricket oils physicochemical properties aligned with Codex Alimentarius standards for edible oils, including low solidification temperature (< 2 °C), a high refractive index (1.46), and a specific gravity of 0.88. Notably, peroxide values (1.9 to 2.5 mg mEq O2/kg), acid values (1.1 to 2.2 mg KOH/g), and saponification values (234–246 mg KOH/g) all are indicative of lightness and unsaturated fatty acids. Nutritionally, cricket powder was rich in protein (56.8–56.9% -) and fat (31.7–33.5% -of dry matter), with significant amounts of essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Predominant saturated and monounsaturated fatty acids were palmitic (23.9–31.2 mg/100 g-) and oleic acids (10.9–11.4 mg/100 g- of oil), respectively. Antioxidant values (48.0 to 65.0 mg/100 g), inferred from total polyphenols, suggests a stable oil with long shelf-life. These results highlight the promising and sustainable potential of cricket-derived oils for applications in the food and pharmaceutical industries.

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Combining Temperature-Dependent Life Table Data Into Insect Life Cycle Model To Forecast Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (Je Smith) Distribution In Maize Agro-Ecological Zones In Africa, Marian Adan, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Cojdo E.F. Kassa, Klaus Greve, Christian Borgemeister, Georg Goergen May 2024

Combining Temperature-Dependent Life Table Data Into Insect Life Cycle Model To Forecast Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (Je Smith) Distribution In Maize Agro-Ecological Zones In Africa, Marian Adan, Henri E.Z. Tonnang, Cojdo E.F. Kassa, Klaus Greve, Christian Borgemeister, Georg Goergen

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The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (JE Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), an invasive agricultural pest, has significantly impacted crop yields across Africa. This study investigated the relationship between temperature and FAW life history traits, employing life cycle modeling at temperatures of 20, 25, 28, 30, and 32̊C. The development time for eggs, larvae, and pupae varied from 0–3 days, 10–18 days, and 7–16 days, respectively. The optimal temperature range for immature stage survival and female fecundity was identified as 21–25̊C, with the intrinsic rate of increase (rm) and gross reproductive rate (GRR) peaking at 25–28̊C. Model validation confirmed the accuracy of …

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A Best Way Forward To The Organisation Of Entomological Training Courses In Sub-Saharan Africa, Kurt Jordaens, Marc De Meyer, Muriel Van Nuffel, Ashley H. Kirk-Spriggs, Christopher Sabuni, Maulid Mwatawala, Ramadhani Mujabwa, Sija Kabota, Terence Bellingan, Georg Goergen, Mervyn Mansell, Aruna Manrakhan, Antonio Sinzogan, Mark K. Schutze, Arianna Thomas-Cabianca, Robert Copeland, Burgert Muller, Massimiliano Virgilio, Ella Bert, Eva November, John Midgley May 2024

A Best Way Forward To The Organisation Of Entomological Training Courses In Sub-Saharan Africa, Kurt Jordaens, Marc De Meyer, Muriel Van Nuffel, Ashley H. Kirk-Spriggs, Christopher Sabuni, Maulid Mwatawala, Ramadhani Mujabwa, Sija Kabota, Terence Bellingan, Georg Goergen, Mervyn Mansell, Aruna Manrakhan, Antonio Sinzogan, Mark K. Schutze, Arianna Thomas-Cabianca, Robert Copeland, Burgert Muller, Massimiliano Virgilio, Ella Bert, Eva November, John Midgley

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Despite their significant impact on human life in the Afrotropical Region, Diptera remain understudied. For a large part this is due to a lack of Diptera taxonomic experts and collection curators from the Afrotropical Region (except for South Africa perhaps), the difficulties some developing countries face in maintaining collections, and the low number of digitised specimens. This impedes the use of these Diptera collections for identification services, taxonomic and phylogenetic research, and other biological research areas. The dire need for knowledge transfer and training of young and emerging entomologists in the Afrotropical Region has prompted the Royal Museum for Central …

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Impact Of Temperature On The Bionomics And Geographical Range Margins Of The Two-Spotted Field Cricket Gryllus Bimaculatus In The World: Implications For Its Mass Farming, Henlay J.O. Magara, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Brian L. Fisher, Abdelmutalab G.A. Azrag, Saliou Niassy, James P. Egonyu, Sylvain Hugel, Nana Roos, Monica A. Ayieko, Subramanian Sevgan, Sunday Ekesi Apr 2024

Impact Of Temperature On The Bionomics And Geographical Range Margins Of The Two-Spotted Field Cricket Gryllus Bimaculatus In The World: Implications For Its Mass Farming, Henlay J.O. Magara, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Brian L. Fisher, Abdelmutalab G.A. Azrag, Saliou Niassy, James P. Egonyu, Sylvain Hugel, Nana Roos, Monica A. Ayieko, Subramanian Sevgan, Sunday Ekesi

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Gryllus bimaculatus (Orthoptera: Gryllidae) is widely considered an excellent nutrient source for food and feed. Despite its economic importance, there is limited information on the impact of temperature on the bionomics of this cricket to guide its effective and sustainable mass production in its geographical range. The biological parameters of G. bimaculatus were investigated at eight different temperatures ranging from 20–40∘C. The Insect Life-Cycle Modelling (ILCYM) program was used to fit linear and non-linear functions to the data to describe the influence of temperature on life history parameters and its farmability under the current and projected climate for 2050. Our …

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A Visual And Spatial Tool For Tracking, Mapping And Forecasting The Dispersal Of Biological Control Agents, Komi Mensah Agboka, John Odindi, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Onisimo Mutanga, Henri E.Z. Tonnang Mar 2024

A Visual And Spatial Tool For Tracking, Mapping And Forecasting The Dispersal Of Biological Control Agents, Komi Mensah Agboka, John Odindi, Elfatih M. Abdel-Rahman, Onisimo Mutanga, Henri E.Z. Tonnang

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iPydisp is an open-source, Python-based tool designed to model the spatio-temporal dispersal of insect species such as parasitoids. It provides an accessible interface for interactive spatio-temporal analysis, using cellular automata algorithms for easy data processing and updates. The tool's main features include intuitive data loading, easy setting of dispersal constraints, and dynamic visualization of dispersal patterns. iPydisp has the potential to improve our understanding of parasitoid dispersal and enhance pest management strategies.

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Insecticide Contamination In Organic Agriculture: Evidence From A Long-Term Farming Systems Comparisons Trial, Ivonne Kampermann, David Bautze, Millicent Mapili, Martha Musyoka, Edward Karanja, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Janet Irungu, Noah Adamtey Mar 2024

Insecticide Contamination In Organic Agriculture: Evidence From A Long-Term Farming Systems Comparisons Trial, Ivonne Kampermann, David Bautze, Millicent Mapili, Martha Musyoka, Edward Karanja, Komi K.M. Fiaboe, Janet Irungu, Noah Adamtey

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Synthetic pesticides applied in conventional agriculture to control pests tend to compromise ecosystem services, and their residues may contaminate organic agriculture. To understand the significance of this contamination, also in small-scale farming systems in sub-Saharan Africa, quantitative data is required. Therefore, we compared synthetic insecticide and botanical/biopesticide residues in conventional and organic agricultural production systems after nine years of continuous cultivation of a maize-based crop rotation system at two sites in Kenya. Our results show high detectable concentrations of synthetic insecticide residues (imidacloprid, acetamiprid, chlorpyrifos, and chlorantraniliprole) in conventional plant produce and soil. Furthermore, the organophosphate chlorpyrifos was detected at …

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Effect Of Cooking Methods On Nutritional Value And Microbial Safety Of Edible Rhinoceros Beetle Grubs (Oryctes Sp.), Marliyn W. Muthee, Fathiya M. Khamis, Xavier Cheseto, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Sevgan Subramanian, James P. Egonyu Feb 2024

Effect Of Cooking Methods On Nutritional Value And Microbial Safety Of Edible Rhinoceros Beetle Grubs (Oryctes Sp.), Marliyn W. Muthee, Fathiya M. Khamis, Xavier Cheseto, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Sevgan Subramanian, James P. Egonyu

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Although edible rhinoceros beetle (Oryctes sp.) larvae are popularly consumed in many countries worldwide, they are prepared using different methods such as boiling, roasting, toasting, and deep-frying, whose effect on nutritional value and microbial safety is scarcely known. Here we investigated the effect of these methods on the nutritional value and microbial safety of Oryctes sp. larvae. Our hypothesis was that cooking the grubs using the four methods had no effect on their nutritional content and microbial loads and diversity. The grubs were analyzed for proximate composition, and fatty and amino acid profiles using standard chemical procedures; and microbial safety …

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Validating Indigenous Farmers’ Practice In The Management Of The Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (J. E. Smith) In Maize Cropping Systems In Africa, Saliou Niassy, Evanson Rigan Omuse, John Emanuel Khang’Ati, Ines Bächinger, David Mfuti Kupesa, Xavier Cheseto, Benjamin W. Mbatha, Robert S. Copeland, Samira Abuelgasim Mohamed, Mphatso Gama, Joyce Mulila Mitti, Yeneneh Belayneh, Nicolas Delabays, François Lefort, Sunday Ekesi, Sevgan Subramanian Feb 2024

Validating Indigenous Farmers’ Practice In The Management Of The Fall Armyworm Spodoptera Frugiperda (J. E. Smith) In Maize Cropping Systems In Africa, Saliou Niassy, Evanson Rigan Omuse, John Emanuel Khang’Ati, Ines Bächinger, David Mfuti Kupesa, Xavier Cheseto, Benjamin W. Mbatha, Robert S. Copeland, Samira Abuelgasim Mohamed, Mphatso Gama, Joyce Mulila Mitti, Yeneneh Belayneh, Nicolas Delabays, François Lefort, Sunday Ekesi, Sevgan Subramanian

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Before the invasion of the fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda into Africa, smallholder farmers had been using indigenous practices such as applying fish soup to plants to manage stemborer pests. Although farmers have since begun adapting this practice against FAW, no attempt has been made to scientifically evaluate this practice. Therefore, we assessed the efficacy of applying fish soup to maize plants that were artificially infested with FAW under semi-field conditions. Our results showed that foliar damage is inversely correlated with the concentration of a fish soup and sugar solution, with the highest (100%) concentration resulting in the lowest foliar …

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Dietary And Therapeutic Benefits Of Edible Insects: A Global Perspective, Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, Sunday Ekesi Jan 2024

Dietary And Therapeutic Benefits Of Edible Insects: A Global Perspective, Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, Sunday Ekesi

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Edible insects are gaining traction worldwide for research and development. This review synthesizes a large and well-established body of research literature on the high nutritional value and variety of pharmacological properties of edible insects. Positive benefits of insect-derived products include immune enhancement; gastrointestinal protection; antitumor, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory capacities; antibacterial activities; blood lipid and glucose regulation; lowering of blood pressure; and decreased risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, the pharmacological mechanisms of these active components of edible insects in humans have received limited research attention. In addition, we discuss health risks (safety); application prospects; regulations and policies governing their production and …

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Bacteria Associated With Parthenium Hysterophorus Root Exudate Influence Olfactory Oviposition Responses Of Anopheles Gambiae, Trizah K. Milugo, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi Jan 2024

Bacteria Associated With Parthenium Hysterophorus Root Exudate Influence Olfactory Oviposition Responses Of Anopheles Gambiae, Trizah K. Milugo, Baldwyn Torto, David P. Tchouassi

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Introduction: Previously, we documented that the malaria vector Anopheles gambiae responds to volatile emissions from the root exudate water of the invasive plant, Parthenium hysterophorus. However, the origin of the volatiles remains to be investigated. Here, we isolated bacteria from the root exudate water of the plant, test the influence of their volatiles in gravid An. gambiae oviposition, and examined relationships between volatile profiles and oviposition. Methods: Bacteria from root exudate water of P. hysterophorus were isolated using culture on Luria Bertani medium and identified by sequencing the 16S rRNA gene. Cultures of individual isolates were evaluated for egg laying …

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Editorial: 2022 In Review: Vector Biology, David P. Tchouassi, Janet Midega, Baldwyn Torto Jan 2024

Editorial: 2022 In Review: Vector Biology, David P. Tchouassi, Janet Midega, Baldwyn Torto

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This editorial summarizes collections on the Research Topic “2022 in Review: Vector Biology’’ that focus on entomologic surveillance insights related to mosquito-borne diseases such as dengue and malaria, and sandfly-borne leishmaniasis. Specifically, the editorial discusses the entomologic drivers of dengue virus transmission, host-feeding relationships among various mosquito vectors, sample efficiency of malaria vectors using a suite of trapping techniques and improving sandfly surveillance using odor-baited trapping strategies. The research article by Kamau et al. assessed variation in the biological attributes of adult Aedes aegypti mosquitoes by estimating critical parameters of vectorial capacity (vectors abundance, human blood feeding rates, survival) that …

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Chitin-Enriched Insect Frass Fertilizer As A Biorational Alternative For Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne Incognita) Management, James Kisaakye, Dennis Beesigamukama, Solveig Haukeland, Sevgan Subramanian, Paul K. Thiongo, Segenet Kelemu, Chrysantus M. Tanga Jan 2024

Chitin-Enriched Insect Frass Fertilizer As A Biorational Alternative For Root-Knot Nematode (Meloidogyne Incognita) Management, James Kisaakye, Dennis Beesigamukama, Solveig Haukeland, Sevgan Subramanian, Paul K. Thiongo, Segenet Kelemu, Chrysantus M. Tanga

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Root-knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) are serious pests of most food crops, causing up to 100% yield loss. Nevertheless, commercial nematicides are costly and harmful to the environment. While the nematicidal potential of crustacean and synthetic chitin has been demonstrated globally, research on the potential of insect-derived chitin for nematode control has received limited attention. Here, seven chitin-fortified black soldier fly frass fertilizer extracts (chFE) were assessed for their suppressiveness of Meloidogyne incognita and impacts on spinach growth in comparison with a commercial nematicide using in vitro and in vivo bioassays. The performance of chFE and control treatments was assessed by …

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Comparative Microbiome Diversity In Root-Nodules Of Three Desmodium Species Used In Push-Pull Cropping System, Isack H. Adan, George Ochieng Asudi, Saliou Niassy, Abdul A. Jalloh, Johnstone Mutiso Mutua, Frank Chidawanyika, Fathiya Khamis, Zeyaur Khan, Sevgan Subramanian, Thomas Dubois, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai Jan 2024

Comparative Microbiome Diversity In Root-Nodules Of Three Desmodium Species Used In Push-Pull Cropping System, Isack H. Adan, George Ochieng Asudi, Saliou Niassy, Abdul A. Jalloh, Johnstone Mutiso Mutua, Frank Chidawanyika, Fathiya Khamis, Zeyaur Khan, Sevgan Subramanian, Thomas Dubois, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai

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Background: Desmodium species used as intercrops in push-pull cropping systems are known to repel insect-pests, suppress Striga species weeds, and shift soil microbiome. However, the mechanisms through which Desmodium species impact the soil microbiome, either through its root exudates, changes in soil nutrition, or shading microbes from its nodules into the rhizosphere, are less understood. Here, we investigated the diversity of root-nodule microbial communities of three Desmodium species- Desmodium uncinatum (SLD), Desmodium intortum (GLD), and Desmodium incanum (AID) which are currently used in smallholder maize push-pull technology (PPT). Methods: Desmodium species root-nodule samples were collected from selected smallholder farms in …

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