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Articles 31 - 60 of 443
Full-Text Articles in Agricultural Science
Predicting Food Prices In Kenya Using Machine Learning: A Hybrid Model Approach With Xgboost And Gradient Boosting, Benard O. Ogol, Evans Omondi, John Olukuru, Betsy Muriithi, Kennedy Senagi
Predicting Food Prices In Kenya Using Machine Learning: A Hybrid Model Approach With Xgboost And Gradient Boosting, Benard O. Ogol, Evans Omondi, John Olukuru, Betsy Muriithi, Kennedy Senagi
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Introduction: Food price volatility continues to be a significant concern in Kenya's economic development, posing challenges to the country's economic stability. Methodology: This study examines the application of machine learning methods, employing a hybrid approach that combines XGBoost and gradient boosting, to predict food prices in Kenya. The food prices data from the World Food Programme, covering the period from January 2006 to September 2024, as well as currency exchange rates data from the Central Bank of Kenya in US dollars (USD) and inflation rates data, were collated and preprocessed to be ready for analytics and machine learning. The augmented …
Knowledge And Acceptance Of Insects As Feed Source For Poultry Production In Conflict Affected Regions Of Cameroon, Chaba F. Ambele, Ngantu Harrison, Shaphan Y. Chia, Zewdu Abro, Komivi S. Akutse, Akum E. Akumeyam, Chrysantus M. Tanga
Knowledge And Acceptance Of Insects As Feed Source For Poultry Production In Conflict Affected Regions Of Cameroon, Chaba F. Ambele, Ngantu Harrison, Shaphan Y. Chia, Zewdu Abro, Komivi S. Akutse, Akum E. Akumeyam, Chrysantus M. Tanga
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Globally, insects are increasingly being considered as sustainable and complementary feeds for poultry production. However, there is a lack of information on the perception of people in vulnerable and conflict-affected communities in Cameroon. This paper presents a survey on awareness and willingness to integrate insect meals in poultry feeds in the Northwest and Southwest regions of Cameroon. During this survey, purposive and snowball sampling procedures were used to collect data from 253 households. Among those interviewed, 32% were internally displaced people and 68% residents. In general, 97% of the respondents were aware that insects are a natural food source for …
Can Fungal Endophytes Suppress Trialeurodes Vaporariorum And The Transmission Of Tomato Infectious Chlorosis And Chlorosis Viruses In Field Conditions?, Marial Makur Zechariah Paweer, Everlyne Samita Namikoye, Shem Bonuke Nchore, Komivi Senyo Akutse
Can Fungal Endophytes Suppress Trialeurodes Vaporariorum And The Transmission Of Tomato Infectious Chlorosis And Chlorosis Viruses In Field Conditions?, Marial Makur Zechariah Paweer, Everlyne Samita Namikoye, Shem Bonuke Nchore, Komivi Senyo Akutse
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Field trials were conducted for two seasons in two experimental sites (Mwea in Kirinyaga and Ngoliba in Kiambu counties of Kenya) to assess the efficacy of fungal endophytes Hypocrea lixii F3ST1 and Trichoderma asperellum M2RT4 in the control of Trialeurodes vaporariorum vector of tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) and tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) through seeds inoculation. TICV and ToCV’s disease incidence, severity and the yield were also evaluated. All the fungal endophytes successfully colonized all the tomato plant parts, but the highest root colonization was observed in H. lixii F3ST1 compared to the T. asperellum M2RT4 in both seasons. The …
Selective Lure For Bactrocera Dorsalis Based On Shared Palpal And Antennal Responses Across Three Economically Important Tephritid Species, Tibebe Dejene Biasazin, Raphael Njurai Miano, Xavier Cheseto, Shepard Ndlela, Samira A. Mohamed, Teun Dekker
Selective Lure For Bactrocera Dorsalis Based On Shared Palpal And Antennal Responses Across Three Economically Important Tephritid Species, Tibebe Dejene Biasazin, Raphael Njurai Miano, Xavier Cheseto, Shepard Ndlela, Samira A. Mohamed, Teun Dekker
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The oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis is a highly destructive and invasive pest that threatens global horticulture, causing economic losses due to fruit damage and quarantine regulations. While attract-and-kill baits are widely used to suppress fly populations, these baits also impact many non-target species. To achieve ecological sustainability, our study aimed to develop a method that selectively targets female fruit flies. Using gas chromatography coupled to electro-antennal or palpal detection (GC-EAD/GC-EPD), we identified compounds that elicited responses in the maxillary palp and antenna of three different fruit flies including B. dorsalis, Ceratitis capitata, and Zeugodacus cucurbitae. As previous studies indicated …
Unpacking The Benefits Of Black Soldier Fly Frass Fertilizer Towards Nematode Suppression And Potato Production, Emmanuel O. Anedo, Dennis Beesigamukama, Benson Mochoge, Nicholas K. Korir, Solveig Haukeland, Xavier Cheseto, Moses Nyongesa, Patrick Pwaipwai, Sevgan Subramanian, Abdou Tenkouano, Betty Kibaara, Chrysantus M. Tanga
Unpacking The Benefits Of Black Soldier Fly Frass Fertilizer Towards Nematode Suppression And Potato Production, Emmanuel O. Anedo, Dennis Beesigamukama, Benson Mochoge, Nicholas K. Korir, Solveig Haukeland, Xavier Cheseto, Moses Nyongesa, Patrick Pwaipwai, Sevgan Subramanian, Abdou Tenkouano, Betty Kibaara, Chrysantus M. Tanga
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Potato production is hindered by soil degradation and nematode infestation. Mineral fertilizers and synthetic nematicides are costly and cause negative impacts on humans and the environment, while organic fertilizers are less effective for soil health and nematode management. This study demonstrates the contribution of black soldier fly frass fertilizer (BSFFF) in nematode suppression and potato productivity when compared to commercial mineral fertilizer, organic fertilizer (SAFI), and nematicide. The on-farm experiments consisted of eight treatments: BSFFF, SAFI, BSFFF+5%chitin, NPK+nematicide, 50%BSFFF+50%NPK, 50%SAFI+50%NPK, 50%BSFFF+5% chitin+50%NPK, and control (unfertilized soil). Results revealed that all fertilizer treatments significantly increased potato growth, number of tubers (34 …
The Direct And Indirect Effects Of Mobile Phone Ownership On Maize Yields In Tanzania, Cool Dady Mangole, Kelvin Mulungu, Christian Kamala Kaghoma, Menale Kassie
The Direct And Indirect Effects Of Mobile Phone Ownership On Maize Yields In Tanzania, Cool Dady Mangole, Kelvin Mulungu, Christian Kamala Kaghoma, Menale Kassie
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The study uses the Living Standards Measurement Study-Integrated Surveys on Agriculture to evaluate mobile phone ownership's direct and indirect effect on yields in Tanzania. The results indicate that transitioning from not owning to owning a mobile phone improves maize yields by about 16%. Mobile phones indirectly affect maize yield by facilitating farmers' access to extension services - regardless of the type of provider - but only account for about 2% of the total effects. Considering both direct and indirect effects, this study suggests that extension services partially moderate this causal relationship. Further, the impact of mobile phones is stronger among …
Do Rates Matter? Validation Of Insect Frass Fertilizer Rates In A Vegetable Intensified Push-Pull Technology For Optimal Sustainable Production, Priscilla Mwikali Kimuli, Dennis Beesigamukama, Judy Wambua, Bonoukpoe Mawuko Sokame, Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, Frank Chidawanyika, Sevgan Subramanian, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai
Do Rates Matter? Validation Of Insect Frass Fertilizer Rates In A Vegetable Intensified Push-Pull Technology For Optimal Sustainable Production, Priscilla Mwikali Kimuli, Dennis Beesigamukama, Judy Wambua, Bonoukpoe Mawuko Sokame, Chrysantus Mbi Tanga, Frank Chidawanyika, Sevgan Subramanian, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai
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Push–pull system intensification with vegetables (VIPPT) has contributed significantly in maintaining good control of lepidopteran pests and parasitic weeds with additional food and nutritional security benefits. However, the impact of integration of different rates of black soldier fly frass fertilizer (BSFFF) in the VIPPT to enhance productivity, has not been explored. This study investigated the effects of different BSFFF application rates on growth performance, pest infestation severity, diversity of natural enemies and yield of kale (Brassica oleracea L. var. acephala) grown under VIPPT in two agroecological zones. Plants were grown in soils amended with five different levels of BSFFF (0, …
The Role Of Information And Communication Technologies-Based Extension In Agriculture: Application, Opportunities And Challenges, Kelvin Mulungu, Menale Kassie, Maurice Tschopp
The Role Of Information And Communication Technologies-Based Extension In Agriculture: Application, Opportunities And Challenges, Kelvin Mulungu, Menale Kassie, Maurice Tschopp
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Limited access to information about new technologies is a major barrier to agricultural productivity. To bridge this information gap, agricultural extension services increasingly use Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to provide timely and actionable information to farmers. This systematic review analyses evidence from 49 studies examining the impact of ICT interventions including mobile apps, SMS messaging, educational videos, and voice calling services on awareness, agricultural practices adoption, yields, and income. The review reveals that 76% of studies reported increased adoption of good agricultural practices, 60% demonstrated improved awareness, 74% indicated higher yields, and 68% observed enhanced incomes. Cereals, particularly maize, …
Nature-Based Land Management Practices And Yield Dynamics In Oil Palm Production: Insights From Indonesian Smallholder Growers, Kibrom T. Sibhatu, Martin Paul Tabe-Ojong, Hermanto Siregar
Nature-Based Land Management Practices And Yield Dynamics In Oil Palm Production: Insights From Indonesian Smallholder Growers, Kibrom T. Sibhatu, Martin Paul Tabe-Ojong, Hermanto Siregar
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Nature-based land management (NLM) practices are increasingly promoted for their potential to bridge yield gaps and increase overall crop production. Yet, the extent of NLM adoption, the factors driving it, and its impact on yields remain unknown, particularly among smallholder farmers. This study addresses this knowledge gap using a unique three-round panel dataset from independent smallholder oil palm growers in Indonesia, focusing on three main NLM practices: composting, manual weeding, and organic soil amendments (SA) using lime and gypsum. We employ panel data estimators and a multivariate probit model to examine the yield effects of these practices and assess any …
Farmers’ Decision Processes About Biocontrol Innovation Adoption: Dynamics Surrounding Push-Pull Technology In Western Kenya, Olufemi Samson Adesina, Stephen Whitfield, Susannah M. Sallu, Steven M. Sait, Jimmy Pittchar
Farmers’ Decision Processes About Biocontrol Innovation Adoption: Dynamics Surrounding Push-Pull Technology In Western Kenya, Olufemi Samson Adesina, Stephen Whitfield, Susannah M. Sallu, Steven M. Sait, Jimmy Pittchar
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Smallholder farmers in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) face increasing challenges from pests and climate change, among other issues. In response to these challenges, international agricultural research for development (R4D) investment is often focused on developing and scaling up techniques and technologies that bolster resilience. However, such approaches are often technocentric and follow linear assumptions of innovation diffusion and adoption, which overlook the complex realities that influence smallholder farmers’ dynamic decisions and engagement with novel techniques. This study used qualitative ethnographic methods to explore the experiences, knowledge construction, motivations, and decision-making of farmers in Western Kenya regarding the extensively researched push-pull technology …
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
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 …
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
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 …
Effects Of Changing Farming Practices In African Agriculture, Todd S. Rosenstock, Peter Steward, Namita Joshi, Christine Lamanna, Nictor Namoi, Lolita Muller, Akinwale O. Akinleye, Erica Atieno, Patrick Bell, Clara Champalle, William English, Anna Sarah Eyrich, Angela Gitau, Dorcas Kagwiria, Hannah Kamau, Anna Madalinska, Lucas Manda, Scott Mcfatridge, Elijah Mumo, Alex Nduah, Babra Ombewa, Anatoli Poultouchidou, Janie Rioux, Meryl Richards, Julia Shuck, Helena Ström, Katherine Tully
Effects Of Changing Farming Practices In African Agriculture, Todd S. Rosenstock, Peter Steward, Namita Joshi, Christine Lamanna, Nictor Namoi, Lolita Muller, Akinwale O. Akinleye, Erica Atieno, Patrick Bell, Clara Champalle, William English, Anna Sarah Eyrich, Angela Gitau, Dorcas Kagwiria, Hannah Kamau, Anna Madalinska, Lucas Manda, Scott Mcfatridge, Elijah Mumo, Alex Nduah, Babra Ombewa, Anatoli Poultouchidou, Janie Rioux, Meryl Richards, Julia Shuck, Helena Ström, Katherine Tully
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Information on the effects of changing agricultural management on crop and livestock performance is critical for developing evidence-based policies, investments, and programs. Evidence for Resilient Agriculture (ERA) v1.0.1 presents a dataset that harmonizes and aggregates 112,859 observations from 2,011 agricultural studies taken place in Africa between 1934 and 2018. The dataset includes information on the effect of 364 combinations of management practices and technologies on 87 environmental, social, and economic indicators of outcomes. Observations are geolocated and temporally tagged and thus can be linked to other datasets such as historical weather, soil properties, and road networks. ERA offers a new …
Long-Term Push–Pull Cropping System Shifts Soil And Maize-Root Microbiome Diversity Paving Way To Resilient Farming System, Abdul A. Jalloh, Fathiya Mbarak Khamis, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Sevgan Subramanian, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai
Long-Term Push–Pull Cropping System Shifts Soil And Maize-Root Microbiome Diversity Paving Way To Resilient Farming System, Abdul A. Jalloh, Fathiya Mbarak Khamis, Abdullahi Ahmed Yusuf, Sevgan Subramanian, Daniel Munyao Mutyambai
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Background: The soil biota consists of a complex assembly of microbial communities and other organisms that vary significantly across farming systems, impacting soil health and plant productivity. Despite its importance, there has been limited exploration of how different cropping systems influence soil and plant root microbiomes. In this study, we investigated soil physicochemical properties, along with soil and maize-root microbiomes, in an agroecological cereal-legume companion cropping system known as push–pull technology (PPT). This system has been used in agriculture for over two decades for insect-pest management, soil health improvement, and weed control in sub-Saharan Africa. We compared the results with …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
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
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 …
Characterisation Of ‘Giant’ Cysts Of The Potato Cyst Nematode, Globodera Rostochiensis, Present In Potato Fields In Kenya, James A. Price, Kelsey Hunt, Newton Nyagah, Calvince Orage, Onesmus Mwaura, Solveig Haukeland, Danny Coyne, John T. Jones
Characterisation Of ‘Giant’ Cysts Of The Potato Cyst Nematode, Globodera Rostochiensis, Present In Potato Fields In Kenya, James A. Price, Kelsey Hunt, Newton Nyagah, Calvince Orage, Onesmus Mwaura, Solveig Haukeland, Danny Coyne, John T. Jones
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Potato production in East Africa is seriously impacted by the potato cyst nematode (PCN), Globodera rostochiensis, where it has been recorded in at least three countries. In Kenya, it is widespread in all major potato-growing regions, often at very high densities. Consecutive cropping of potato on the same land and a sub-tropical climate have influenced PCN biology. For example, unusually large cysts have been regularly recovered. We have analysed the biological properties of these ‘giant cysts’. The giant cysts contained more eggs than those recovered from UK fields. Egg size did not differ from UK populations and there was no …
Insect Frass Fertilizer As A Regenerative Input For Improved Biological Nitrogen Fixation And Sustainable Bush Bean Production, Agnes Chepkorir, Dennis Beesigamukama, Harun I. Gitari, Shaphan Y. Chia, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Birachi Eliud Abucheli, Jean Claude Rubyogo, Theodore Zahariadis, Gina Athanasiou, Aikaterini Zachariadi, Vasileios Zachariadis, Abdou Tenkouano, Chrysantus M. Tanga
Insect Frass Fertilizer As A Regenerative Input For Improved Biological Nitrogen Fixation And Sustainable Bush Bean Production, Agnes Chepkorir, Dennis Beesigamukama, Harun I. Gitari, Shaphan Y. Chia, Sevgan Subramanian, Sunday Ekesi, Birachi Eliud Abucheli, Jean Claude Rubyogo, Theodore Zahariadis, Gina Athanasiou, Aikaterini Zachariadi, Vasileios Zachariadis, Abdou Tenkouano, Chrysantus M. Tanga
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Bush bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) production is undermined by soil degradation and low biological nitrogen fixation (BNF) capacity. This study evaluated the effect of black soldier fly frass fertilizer (BSFFF) on bush bean growth, yield, nutrient uptake, BNF, and profitability, in comparison with commercial organic fertilizer (Phymyx, Phytomedia International Ltd., Kiambu, Kenya), synthetic fertilizer (NPK), and rhizobia inoculant (Biofix, MEA Fertilizers, Nairobi, Kenya). The organic fertilizers were applied at rates of 0, 15, 30, and 45 kg N ha−1 while the NPK was applied at 40 kg N ha−1, 46 kg P ha−1, and 60 kg K ha−1. The fertilizers …
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
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 …
Integrating Vegetables In Push-Pull Technology: Gendered Preferences Of Smallholder Farmers In Western Kenya, F. O. Ouya, J. O. Pittchar, F. Chidawanyika, Z. R. Khan
Integrating Vegetables In Push-Pull Technology: Gendered Preferences Of Smallholder Farmers In Western Kenya, F. O. Ouya, J. O. Pittchar, F. Chidawanyika, Z. R. Khan
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Transformative rural smallholder agriculture addressing biophysical constraints requires farmer-led innovations for increased technology adoption. Following the need to further intensify the cereal push-pull technology (PPT) for pest and weed control through integration with vegetables, we conducted surveys to determine suitable vegetables across three different counties in Kenya namely Homabay, Siaya, and Trans-Nzoia. Farming in these areas is predominantly maize based and introducing vegetables to the system will improve household food and nutritional security, together with income. A systematic random sampling method was used to sample a total of 124 smallholder farmers who were interviewed during field days where farmer awareness …
Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Associated With Maize, And Their Relationship With Soil Properties In Southern And Southwestern Ethiopia, Abebe W. Aseffa, Beira H. Meressa, Tadele Tefera, Kristina K. Green, Peter Anderson, Esayas Mendesil
Plant-Parasitic Nematodes Associated With Maize, And Their Relationship With Soil Properties In Southern And Southwestern Ethiopia, Abebe W. Aseffa, Beira H. Meressa, Tadele Tefera, Kristina K. Green, Peter Anderson, Esayas Mendesil
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Maize is an important cereal crop in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). Plant-parasitic nematodes significantly impact maize production. However, research on maize nematodes in SSA is limited. The current study aimed to assess the occurrences and densities of nematodes associated with maize and to assess the correlation of some soil physicochemical properties with nematodes in southern and southwestern Ethiopia. One hundred and eighty-six soil and root samples were collected from 62 maize fields (31 from Hawassa Zuria and 31 from Mana districts). Eleven plant-parasitic nematode genera were identified. The most important genera of plant-parasitic nematodes identified were Meloidogyne and Pratylenchus, followed by …
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
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 …
Waste To Value: Global Perspective On The Impact Of Entomocomposting On Environmental Health, Greenhouse Gas Mitigation And Soil Bioremediation, Dennis Beesigamukama, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Subramanian Sevgan, Sunday Ekesi, Segenet Kelemu
Waste To Value: Global Perspective On The Impact Of Entomocomposting On Environmental Health, Greenhouse Gas Mitigation And Soil Bioremediation, Dennis Beesigamukama, Chrysantus M. Tanga, Subramanian Sevgan, Sunday Ekesi, Segenet Kelemu
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The innovative use of insects to recycle low-value organic waste into value-added products such as food, feed and other products with a low ecological footprint has attracted rapid attention globally. The insect frass (a combination unconsumed substrate, faeces, and exuviae) contains substantial amounts of nutrients and beneficial microbes that could utilised as fertilizer. We analyse research trends and report on the production, nutrient quality, maturity and hygiene status of insect-composted organic fertilizer (ICOF) generated from different organic wastes, and their influence on soil fertility, pest and pathogen suppression, and crop productivity. Lastly, we discuss the impact of entomocomposting on greenhouse …
Unravelling The Nutritional And Health Benefits Of Wheat Bread Enriched With Meat Powder From Laying Hen Fed Diet With Insect (Hermetia Illucens) Meal, Marcasy P. Makokha, Patrick S. Muliro, Peninah N. Ngoda, Changeh J. Ghemoh, Sevgan Subramanian, Cheseto Xavier, Brian O. Ochieng, Sunday Ekesi, Chrysantus M. Tanga
Unravelling The Nutritional And Health Benefits Of Wheat Bread Enriched With Meat Powder From Laying Hen Fed Diet With Insect (Hermetia Illucens) Meal, Marcasy P. Makokha, Patrick S. Muliro, Peninah N. Ngoda, Changeh J. Ghemoh, Sevgan Subramanian, Cheseto Xavier, Brian O. Ochieng, Sunday Ekesi, Chrysantus M. Tanga
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Wheat bread is among stable foods that are nutritionally imbalanced, thus enrichment is crucial. We evaluated the nutritional impact of high-valued wheat bread enriched with varying levels of meat powder from hen fed diet with insect (Hermetia illucens)-based meal. Crude protein and ash in bread increased with increasing inclusion of meat powder. Limiting amino acids like lysine and threonine in enriched bread products increased by 3.0–4.5 and 1.8–3.1-folds, respectively. Omega 3 fatty acids were significantly enhanced in bread fortified with meat powder. Vitamins (retinol, nicotinic acid, and pantothenic acid) were significantly increased in supplemented bread products. Iron, zinc, and calcium …
Effect Of Use Of Tsetse Repellant Collar Technology On The Farm Performance And Household Welfare Of Small-Scale Livestock Farmers In Kenya, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Kassie Menale, Gracious M. Diiro, Michael N. Okal, Daniel K. Masiga
Effect Of Use Of Tsetse Repellant Collar Technology On The Farm Performance And Household Welfare Of Small-Scale Livestock Farmers In Kenya, Beatrice W. Muriithi, Kassie Menale, Gracious M. Diiro, Michael N. Okal, Daniel K. Masiga
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Tsetse-transmitted Animal African Trypanosomosis (AAT) is a disease of economic importance to livestock development in Sub-Saharan Africa. The disease is widely managed using trypanocides that are expensive for smallholders and associated with health risks due to drug residues in animal products and drug resistance. Developed recently by the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology (icipe) and partners, the novel Tsetse repellent collar technology (TRCT) provides an effective alternative control measure that targets the tsetse fly vector of AAT. This study assessed the impact of TRCT on household welfare and food security by using ex-post non-experimental data obtained from 632 …
Improving Phosphorus Acquisition Efficiency Through Modification Of Root Growth Responses To Phosphate Starvation In Legumes, Zhijian Chen, Linjie Wang, Juan Andres Cardoso, Shengnan Zhu, Guodao Liu, Idupulapati M. Rao, Yan Lin
Improving Phosphorus Acquisition Efficiency Through Modification Of Root Growth Responses To Phosphate Starvation In Legumes, Zhijian Chen, Linjie Wang, Juan Andres Cardoso, Shengnan Zhu, Guodao Liu, Idupulapati M. Rao, Yan Lin
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Phosphorus (P) is one of the essential macronutrients for plant growth and development, and it is an integral part of the major organic components, including nucleic acids, proteins and phospholipids. Although total P is abundant in most soils, a large amount of P is not easily absorbed by plants. Inorganic phosphate (Pi) is the plant-available P, which is generally immobile and of low availability in soils. Hence, Pi starvation is a major constraint limiting plant growth and productivity. Enhancing plant P efficiency can be achieved by improving P acquisition efficiency (PAE) through modification of morpho-physiological and biochemical alteration in root …