2026-04-04T10:41:36Z http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/oai

oai:jarts.info:article/5574 2025-03-26T14:30:34Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "240312 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Enhancing crop-livestock systems: Unveiling the impact of leaf stripping on maize hybrid yield in Sundarbazar-Lamjung, Nepal Paudel, Giri Raj Tribhuvan University Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Lamjung Campus, Nepal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3673-1628 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3673-1628 Thapa, Rajan Tribhuvan University Institute of Agriculture and Animal Science, Lamjung Campus, Nepal Array In local maize agro-ecosystems in Nepal leaf stripping is, historically, practiced as a source of fodder for livestock. However, its effects on hybrid maize have not been studied. The aim of this study was to determine how defoliation below the cob affects the grain and fodder production of hybrid maize and what value the stripped leaves have as fodder for ruminants. Seven hybrid maize cultivars were evaluated for their response to leaf stripping in a randomized complete block design with three replications in Sundarbazar, Lamjung, Nepal. Evaluation of phenological parameters, agronomic factors, cob properties, and grain yield revealed significant cultivar-related differences. While leaf stripping at grain silking stage had little or no impact on yield characteristics, the outcomes confirmed the significance of cultivar selection for the best grain and stover characteristics. Leaf stripping can be a clever way to increase ruminant's feed availability while maintaining grain output. The results of the study support the integration of leaf stripping as a sustainable management technique within crop-livestock systems, particularly in comparable agroecological zones. These findings provide smallholder farmers with useful advice for the use of green leaves as fodder during the grain silking stage of hybrid maize-based agricultural systems. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-02-23 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202402239640 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 1 (2024) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/5574/17614 http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/5574/17615 Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4016 2020-12-28T07:40:01Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "201125 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Economic and financial returns of livestock agribusiness in high mountains of Nepal Khadka, Manbar S. Asian Development Bank Thapa, Ganesh Asian Development Bank (ADB) Array Development partners and donor agencies often target programs and projects in poverty stricken and vulnerable regions around the world. However, there is paucity on economic and financial analysis of such investments. This study contributes to the literature by assessing financial internal rate of return (FIRR) and economic internal rate of return (EIRR) of livestock agribusiness, a vital component of ‘High Mountain Agribusiness and Livelihood Improvement’ (HIMALI) project supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) from 2011 to 2018 in ten mountain districts of Nepal. The analysis employs a unique dataset on annual cost (investment, operation and labour) and revenue of 138 livestock agribusiness from 2013 to 2017. The study estimates the EIRR and FIRR of six important livestock species namely, goat, sheep, mountain goat known as chyangra, chauri (a cross-bred of yak and local hill cow), cattle and pig raised in high uplands of Nepal. The overall EIRR of livestock agribusiness is 15% with the highest EIRR observed for sheep (18%), followed by goat (16%), chauri (14%), chyangra (14%) and pig (12%) farm enterprises. By contrast, the overall FIRR of livestock agribusiness is just 12%. Sensitivity analysis shows that the livestock agribusiness is highly sensitive to changes in revenue and operation costs. Some of the major challenges identified are lack of veterinary services and capital to scale-up agribusiness, inadequate market linkages, and limited pastureland. Among livestock agribusiness, sheep, goat, chyangra, and chauri has a high potential in high mountains. The low FIRR indicates a high risk to agribusiness. The study therefore recommends local, provincial and federal governments to deliver reliable extension services, improve market access and provide financial support to ensure the financial sustainability of livestock enterprises in the most difficult and economically lagged region of the country. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-12-24 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202010191973 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 2 (2020) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4016/13749 Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/2777 2017-06-21T12:21:38Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "170421 2017 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Evaluation of cassava leaf meal protein in fish and soybean meal-based diets for young pigs Diarra, Siaka Seriba School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Koroilagilagi, Malakai School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Tamani, Simeli School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Maluhola, Latu School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Isitolo, Sila School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Batibasila, Jiaoti School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Vaea, Tevita School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Rota, Vasenai School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Lupea, Ulusagogo School of Agriculture and Food Technology, Alafua Campus, University of the South Pacific, Apia, Samoa Array The unavailability and high cost of traditional ingredients calls for more research into alternative sources for pig feeding in the South Pacific region. The effect of replacing feed protein with cassava leaf meal (CLM) protein in weaner and growing pigs’ diets was investigated in two experiments. In experiment 1, three diets in which CLM protein replaced 0, 15 and 30% of feed protein were fed each to five replicate pens of weaner pigs. Feed intake (FI), body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion ratio (FCR) were improved and feed cost of gain reduced (P0.05) on 30% while dressing percentage was maximized (P0.05) on 15% protein replacement diets. In experiment 2, three diets containing 0, 30 and 45% CLM protein as replacement for feed protein were fed as in experiment 1 to grower pigs. FI and BWG were reduced while FCR and feed cost of gain were increased (P0.05) above 30% protein replacement. Dressing percentage assumed the highest value (P0.05) on 30% replacement. It was concluded that replacing 30% of feed protein with sun-dried CLM protein will maintain growth and reduce cost of pork production. Efficient use of CLM in the diet will be an alternative way of value addition to this by-product. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2017-01-13 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2017031552215 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 118, No 1 (2017) eng Copyright (c) 2017 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/5 2016-04-04T15:07:48Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "100418 2010 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Beyond Land Titling for Sustainable Management of Agricultural Land: Lessons from Ndome and Ghazi in Taita-Taveta, Kenya Waswa, Fuchaka Kenyatta University, Department of Environmental Socio-cultural studies, P. O. Box 43844, Nairobi, Kenya. Email: fuchaka96@yahoo.com Eggers, Helmut University of Bonn, Institute of Agricultural Water Resources and Land Improvement, Nußallee 1, 53115, Bonn, Germany Kutsch, Thomas University of Bonn, Institute fuer Agrarpolitik, Marktforschung und Wirtschaftssoziologie, Nussallee 21, 53115 Bonn, Germany. Array This paper is based on a 1996-1999 case study that was done in semi-arid Ndome and Ghazi, Taita-Taveta District, in Kenya to determine the root causes of persistent erosion damage in the area. More than 10 years after land adjudication was done in these areas, more than 70% of the farmers still operate under tenure insecurity mainly due to lack of title deeds (r = 0.94**). Contrary to conventional expectation of land development, owning of land under private property rights was motivated by the sense of belonging, wealth, power and to some degree for speculative purposes. Adoption of structural soil and water conservation measures was still well below 50%. Preference was still given to indigenous land and water management (ILWM) technologies, with adoption rates ranging from 60% to more than 90%. No evidence existed that directly linked land improvement to land titling. For sustainable land management, land titling remains a critical incentive to farmers. However it will have to be accompanied by land use policy reforms that address four main issues, thus: deliberate efforts to preserve agricultural land, equitable distribution of available land, putting as much land as possible to agricultural use, and mechanisms to enhance prevention and control of land degradation. How these objectives can be achieved within the Kenyan context is the conceptual gist of this paper. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2002-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/5 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 103, No 2 (2002) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/609 2013-08-10T17:32:15Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "130809 2013 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Farmers’ desired traits and selection criteria for maize varieties and their implications for maize breeding: A case study from KwaZulu-Natal Province, South Africa Sibiya, Julia African Centre for Crop Improvement, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, P. Bag X01, Scottsville, Pietermaritzburg 3209, South Africa Tongoona, Pangirayi African Centre for Crop Improvement, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal Derera, John African Centre for Crop Improvement, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal Makanda, Itai African Centre for Crop Improvement, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal / Alliance for a Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA), P.O. Box 66773, Westlands 00800, Nairobi, Kenya Array Adoption of hybrids and improved varieties has remained low in the smallholder farming sector of South Africa, despite maize being the staple food crop for the majority of households. The objective of this study was to establish preferred maize characteristics by farmers which can be used as selection criteria by maize breeders in crop improvement. Data were collected from three villages of a selected smallholder farming area in South Africa using a survey covering 300 households and participatory rural appraisal methodology. Results indicated a limited selection of maize varieties grown by farmers in the area compared to other communities in Africa. More than 97% of the farmers grew a local landrace called Natal-8-row or IsiZulu. Hybrids and improved open pollinated varieties were planted by less than 40% of the farmers. The Natal-8-row landrace had characteristics similar to landraces from eastern and southern Africa and closely resembled Hickory King, a landrace still popular in Southern Africa. The local landrace was preferred for its taste, recycled seed, tolerance to abiotic stresses and yield stability. Preferred characteristics of maize varieties were high yield and prolificacy, disease resistance, early maturity, white grain colour, and drying and shelling qualities. Farmers were willing to grow hybrids if the cost of seed and other inputs were affordable and their preferences were considered. Our results show that breeding opportunities exist for improving the farmers’ local varieties and maize breeders can take advantage of these preferred traits and incorporate them into existing high yielding varieties. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2013-08-09 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2013030542599 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 114, No 1 (2013) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/91 2016-04-06T08:13:40Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Influence of Topping, Side Branch Pruning and Hill Spacing on Growth and Development of Cotton (Gossypium barbadense L.) in the Southern Guinea Savanna Location of Nigeria Obasi, M. O. Department of Crop Production, University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2373, Makurdi, Nigeria. Msaakpa, T. S. Department of Seed Science, University of Agriculture, P.M.B. 2373, Makurdi, Nigeria Array Two field experiments were carried out at the Teaching and Research Farm, University of Agriculture, Makurdi, Nigeria, during 2000 and 2001 seasons on Pima S2 cotton cultivar, to study the effects of hill spacing of 30, 35 and 40cm (plant population) and plant growth alteration treatments i.e. topping, side branch pruning at 120cm height, topping + pruning at 100cm height, topping + pruning at 120cm height on some vegetative and fruiting habits, earliness and seed cotton yield and its components. Generally the combined data clarified that wider hill spacing increased number of monopodia, main stem internodes, sympodia, additional fruiting branch bolls, retended bolls, fruiting sites, percentage of bolls on vegetative branches, open bolls, boll weight and seed cotton yield. While it decreased final plant height, number of aborted sites, days to first open boll, earliness percentage and number of unopen bolls. However, plant alteration treatments had a positive effect on most studied traits and reversely depressed number of monopodia, aborted sites and earliness percentage compared with the control. Within plant alteration treatments, there were significant divergences. The results indicated that topping plants at 120cm height increased number of retended bolls, fruiting sites, days to first open boll, open boll, unopen bolls and seed cotton yield. Side branch pruning at 120cm height increased final plant height, monopodia, main stem internodes, sympodia, earliness percentage and boll weight. Topping + pruning at 100cm height only decreased number of aborted sites. Topping + pruning at 120cm height increased additional fruiting branch bolls, percentage of bolls on vegetative branches, boll weight and seed cotton yield. Topping at 120cm height and 40cm hill spacing resulted in the highest number of retended bolls and seed cotton yield. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2005-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/91 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 106, No 2 (2005) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5295 2023-11-02T13:28:12Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "230627 2023 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Identification of fungal pathogens causing postharvest rot of bulb onions (Allium cepa L.) in selected major growing regions of Kenya Gathambiri, Charity Wangari Kenya Agricultural and Livestock research Organization/ Jomo Kenyatta University of Agricultural and Technology Imathiu, Samuel Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) Mbaka, Jesca Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization Owino, Willis Jomo Kenyatta of Agriculture and Technology Array Rot is a major cause of bulb onion losses in Kenya, accounting for about 14 % of total postharvest losses. In Kenya, the fungi associated with bulb onion postharvest rot of onion postharvest rots are not well known. Therefore, this study aimed at identifying the fungal pathogens contributing to bulb onion postharvest rot in major growing regions of Kenya. Bulb onion samples were collected from seven major markets and isolates were obtained by cutting 3 mm tissue segments from the edges of rotten lesions. These were cultured in water agar followed by incubation for seven days at room temperature (23 ± 3℃). After seven days, mycelia plugs from the growing edge of each colony were sub-cultured in potato dextrose agar and incubated for ten days. A total of fifty fungal isolates were obtained from the isolations and in vitro pathogenicity test was done on bulb onions. Eighteen fungal isolates that turned out to be pathogenic were inoculated in bulb onions to assess their level of virulence by measuring lesion size after 21 days of incubation at room temperature (23 ± 3℃).  The fungal isolates caused statistically (P0.001) different sized lesions, ranging from 0.4±0.1 cm to 2.6±0.5 cm. Based on morphological characteristics the eighteen fungal pathogenic isolates were identified as Fusarium spp. and were grouped into three clusters. Molecular technique confirmed the three Fusarium spp. clusters as Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. cepae (55%), F .acutatum (17%) and F. solani (28%). F. oxysporum f.sp. cepae was predominantly isolated from bulb onions collected in Bungoma County, while F. solani was mainly obtained from samples in Kajiado County and F. acutatum on bulb onions from Meru County. This study indicates that these three Fusarium species are the main fungal species causing postharvest rot in the major bulb onion growing regions of Kenya. Application of appropriate postharvest technology such as curing before storage would minimize postharvest rot in bulb onion. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2023-02-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202306128203 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 124, No 1 (2023) eng Copyright (c) 2023 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3749 2020-07-08T15:19:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "200509 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Competitiveness of sea buckthorn farming in Mongolia: A policy analysis matrix Gonchigsumlaa, Ganzorig Mongolian University of Life Sciences http://muls.edu.mn/ Cramon-Taubadel, Stephan von Chair of Agricultural Policy, Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, 37073 Göttingen, Germany Soninkishig, Nergui National University of Mongolia, Department of Biology, Mongolia Buerkert, Andreas University of Kassel, Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics Array The perennial shrub sea buckthorn (Hippophae rhamnoides L.) provides multiple products that are beneficial to human health. In addition, the plant can also be used to combat desertification. In contrast to the vast ecological, agronomic and nutritional literature on this species, little is known about its economic and marketing aspects, particularly in Central Asia. We therefore analysed the private and social competitiveness of sea buckthorn farming in 21 households of Bulgan county of Khovd province in Mongolia. The results show that half of the interviewed sea buckthorn farmers are privately competitive. We found that social competitiveness exceeded private competitiveness because while private output prices are supported by government policies, which increases private profits, input prices are also supported, which reduces the competitiveness. The net effect of supports to input and output prices taxes producers and reduces private competitiveness. In our study area the most competitive households had larger land sizes, fenced wild sea buckthorn areas, and were more experienced than others. The competitiveness of sea buckthorn farming increased from 2012 to 2013, which may be due to a government subsidy programme. Given the social and environmental benefits of sea buckthorn production, future government programmes should consider supporting the production through subsidies to make private households more competitive. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-07-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202004061144 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 1 (2020) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/3749/12663 Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/72 2016-04-06T08:39:18Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Plant Genetic Resources: Selected Issues from Genetic Erosion to Genetic Engineering Hammer, Karl Department of Agrobiodiversity, University of Kassel, Steinstrasse 19, 37213 Witzenhausen, Germany Teklu, Yifru Institute of Plant Genetics and Crop Plant Research, Gene and Genome Mapping Unit, Corrensstr 3, 06466 Gatersleben, Germany Array Plant Genetic Resources (PGR) continue to play an important role in the development of agriculture. The following aspects receive a special consideration: 1. Definition. The term was coined in 1970. The genepool concept served as an important tool in the further development. Different approaches are discussed. 2. Values of Genetic Resources. A short introduction is highlighting this problem and stressing the economic usfulness of PGR. 3. Genetic Erosion. Already observed by E. Baur in 1914, this is now a key issue within PGR. The case studies cited include Ethiopia, Italy, China, S Korea, Greece and S. Africa. Modern approaches concentrate on allelic changes in varieties over time but neglect the landraces. The causes and consequences of genetic erosion are discussed. 4. Genetic Resources Conservation. Because of genetic erosion there is a need for conservation. PGR should be consigned to the appropriate method of conservation (ex situ, in situ, on-farm) according to the scientific basis of biodiversity (genetic diversity, species diversity, ecosystem diversity) and the evolutionary status of plants (cultivated plants, weeds, related wild plants (crop wild relatives)). 5. GMO. The impact of genetically engineered plants on genetic diversity is discussed. 6. The Conclusions and Recommendations stress the importance of PGR. Their conservation and use are urgent necessities for the present development and future survival of mankind. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2008-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/72 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 109, No 1 (2008) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/2492 2016-12-14T05:44:45Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "161010 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The effect of garlic extract on growth, haematology and cell-mediated immune response of newborn goat kids Shokrollahi, Borhan Department of Animal science, Agriculture School, Sanandaj branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran Hesami, Sayed Madeh Department of Animal science, Agriculture School, Sanandaj branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran. Baneh, Hasan Animal Science Research Institute of Iran, Agricultural Research, Education and Extension Organisation (AREEO), Teheran, Iran Array The present study was carried out to evaluate the effect of different levels of garlic extract supplemented in milk on growth rate, haematology and cell–mediated immune response of Markhoz newborn goat kids. Twenty four newborn goat kids (aged 7+/-3days) were randomly assigned to four groups. The groups consisted of control (received milk without garlic extract), T1, T2 and T3 which received milk supplemented with 62.5, 125 and 250 mg aqueous garlic extract per kg live weight per day for 42 days, respectively. Body weights were measured weekly throughout the experimental period. At day 42, about 10 ml blood samples were collected from each kid via the jugular vein for haematological study. Cell–mediated immune response was evaluated through double skin thickness after intradermal injection of phyto-hematogglutinin (PHA) at day 21 and 42. Total gain was significantly higher for kids in T3 (P0.05) compared with the control group. Average daily gain (ADG) in T3 group in week 4–5 was higher (P0.05). Significant differences in globulin (P0.01), hemoglobin (Hb; P0.001), hematocrit (PCV; P0.001), erythrocyte (RBC; P0.001), neutrophil (P0.001), lymphocyte (P0.001) and leukocyte (WBC; P0.001) were observed among groups. Hb, PCV, RBC, lymphocytes and WBC were higher in kids given garlic extract supplementation. There was a significant difference of double skin thickness among the groups at day 42 (P0.01). In conclusion, this study indicated that milk supplemented with aqueous garlic extract improved growth rate and immunity of newborn goat kids. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-09-20 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2016092050916 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 2 (2016) eng Copyright (c) 2016 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/408 2018-06-20T09:18:16Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "120919 2012 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Yield gap analysis and assessment of climate-induced yield trends of irrigated rice in selected provinces of the Philippines Angulo, Carlos Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation, University of Bonn, Germany Becker, Mathias Institute of Crop Science and Resource Conservation, University of Bonn, Germany Wassmann, Reiner International Rice Research Institute, Manila, Philippines, working as integrated expert funded by CIM/GIZ Array This study describes a combined empirical/modeling approach to assess the possible impact of climate variability on rice production in the Philippines. We collated climate data of the last two decades (1985-2002) as well as yield statistics of six provinces of the Philippines, selected along a North-South gradient. Data from the climate information system of NASA were used as input parameters of the model ORYZA2000 to determine potential yields and, in the next steps, the yield gaps defined as the difference between potential and actual yields. Both simulated and actual yields of irrigated rice varied strongly between years. However, no climate-driven trends were apparent and the variability in actual yields showed no correlation with climatic parameters. The observed variation in simulated yields was attributable to seasonal variations in climate (dry/wet season) and to climatic differences between provinces and agro-ecological zones. The actual yield variation between provinces was not related to differences in the climatic yield potential but rather to soil and management factors. The resulting yield gap was largest in remote and infrastructurally disfavored provinces (low external input use) with a high production potential (high solar radiation and day-night temperature differences). In turn, the yield gap was lowest in central provinces with good market access but with a relatively low climatic yield potential. We conclude that neither long-term trends nor the variability of the climate can explain current rice yield trends and that agroecological, seasonal, and management effects are over-riding any possible climatic variations. On the other hand the lack of a climate-driven trend in the present situation may be superseded by ongoing climate change in the future. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2012-09-19 13:46:28 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2012082241643 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 113, No 1 (2012) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5768 2026-01-08T16:23:58Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "250603 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Gender disparities in agricultural land access and cashew farming participation in Kintampo South District, Ghana Sedegah, Daniella Delali Department of Sustainable Development and Policy, School of Sustainable Development, University of Environment and Sustainable Development https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6761-9006 Array This study examines gender disparities in access to agricultural land and participation, using a sample of 200 cashew farmers in the Kintampo South District of Ghana and descriptive statistical analysis. The study assesses land tenure status, benefits from cashew production and levels of participation by gender. The results suggest significant gender inequalities with male farmers experiencing greater access to land, property rights, and economic benefits than female farmers, who in most cases face deep-rooted systematic barriers in existing customary land practices. Against all odds and with limited control over resources, women are actively involved in cashew farming. The Theory of Access (ToA) and the FAO's Factors and Institutions Framework were used to conceptualise these inequalities. The research highlights the urgent need for gender-responsive land policies, improved access to credit and agricultural extension services, and structural reforms that promote equitable participation in agricultural value chains, especially at the production level. The research contributes to the understanding of the socio-economic dynamics affecting gender roles in agriculture, particularly in the Ghanaian community context of cashew farming. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025052211168 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 1 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4595 2021-12-31T15:56:33Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "211231 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc A comparative cost-benefit analysis between fairtrade certified and non-certified cocoa production in the South-West region of Cameroon Jaza Folefack, Achille Jean Department of Rural Socio-Economics and Agricultural Extension, Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon Ngwack, Fréderic Simon Department of Agribusiness, Faculty of Agronomy and Agricultural Sciences, University of Dschang, Cameroon Muluh, George Achu Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Economics and Management, University of Dschang, Cameroon Geitzenauer, Maria Consultant Mathe, Syndhia International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), CIRAD-UMR Innovation, Yaoundé, Cameroon. Array In order to promote cocoa agroforestry by encouraging cocoa farmers to integrate fruit trees inside their cocoa orchards, cocoa certification was initially launched since 2012 in Cameroon. Nowadays, cocoa certification is adopted by a few farmers and makes up only 3% of the national cocoa production. Using the most predominant Fairtrade certification in the South-West region, this study compared certified and non-certified cocoa production via a cost-benefit analysis. The results indicated that, in spite of its supplementary cost expenses (wages to hired workers, agrochemical expenses, transportation charges to cooperatives), certified cocoa production led to higher profit, net present value, internal rate of return, benefit-cost ratio greater than one and shorter pay-back period. For the certified farms, a scenario assuming no certification was analysed and its results testified that the young trees planted during cocoa certification further contributed to raise the farm profit. Overall, the profitability of cocoa agroforest was the highest if the farmer was certified, because of his/her premium earned, training received and adhesion to cooperatives where most group problems were solved. The study therefore recommended farmers to join cooperatives and regularly attend training programmes to learn more friendly environmental practices. In view of this, the government should increase cocoa premium or tie it with payments for full environmental benefits, including rewards for carbon sequestration and biodiversity conservation. The Fairtrade certification bodies should attract reticent farmers to certification by convincing them on the necessity to remove the old fruit trees and replace them with new species, which were more productive to raise their income.  German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-08-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202112035151 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 2 (2021) eng Copyright (c) 2021 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3203 2019-01-16T09:29:19Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "190111 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Assessment of varietal diversity and production systems of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) in Southwest Nigeria Saka, Jelili Olaide Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Agbeleye, Opeyemi Adeola Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Ayoola, Olukemi Titilayo Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Lawal, Bosede Olukemi Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Adetumbi, Johnson Adedayo Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Oloyede-Kamiyo, Qudrah Olaitan Institute of Agricultural Research and Training (IAR&T), Obafemi Awolowo University, Moor Plantation, P.M.B. 5029, Ibadan, Nigeria Array Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) is the most important source of plant protein consumed in Nigeria with major supplies coming from the northern part of the country. However, reduction in supplies due to insurgency resulted in sharp increases in price, especially in Southwest Nigeria where cowpea is relished in different delicacies. Sustainable production increase in suitable Southwest agro-ecologies depends on suitability of cultivated varieties and production practices of the farmers. A study was conducted to identify cowpea varieties cultivated by farmers, the varietal attributes, farmers’ preferences, and production constraints. Data were generated through a farm survey of 120 farmers selected by multi-stage sampling technique in Ondo and Oyo States of Southwest Nigeria. Cowpea production was male dominated, with 20.8 % of cultivated area allocated to its production, averaging 0.96 ha per farm household, fragmented over circa three locations. Local varieties were cultivated by 51.6 % of the farmers with seeds sourced mainly from local markets (62.7 %). Cowpea was mainly cultivated as intercrop (55.1 %) notably with cassava. Herbicides and insecticides were prominently used by the farmers while fertiliser was hardly used for cowpea production (12.8 %). Notable attributes cherished by farmers included brown or white coat colour, smooth texture and medium sized grains, erect or creeping growth pattern, and long pod length. Average yield of cowpea on farmers’ field was 530 kg ha−1 while inadequate access to quality seeds, incidence of field insect pests, and rodents (storage pest) were identified as the most severe production constraints by the farmers. Community-based seed production systems should be introduced for improved access to quality seed. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2018-08-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2018121864 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 119, No 2 (2018) eng Copyright (c) 2018 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/37 2016-04-06T08:32:39Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc How Do “Renewable Products” Impact Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services – The Example of Natural Rubber in China Cotter, Marc University of Hohenheim, Institute for Plant Production and Agroecology in the Tropics and Subtropics, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Martin, Konrad University of Hohenheim, Institute for Plant Production and Agroecology in the Tropics and Subtropics, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Sauerborn, Joachim University of Hohenheim, Institute for Plant Production and Agroecology in the Tropics and Subtropics, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Array This paper aims to present the implications brought by the expansion of “renewable products” plantation systems in the tropics with cultivation of rubber (Hevea brasiliensis) as a main focus. Throughout South East Asia, natural forest is being replaced by rubber or oil palm (Elaeis guineensis) plantations, with severe consequences for the local flora and fauna. Main aspects of this review are: i) The provision of an overview over renewable resources in general and rubber in particular, with eco-physiological and agronomical information concerning rubber cultivation. ii) The effect of rubber plantations on biodiversity and species composition under different rubber farming approaches. In addition we debate the possible influences of such large scale land cover transformations on ecosystem services. iii) The conversion of natural forests into rubber plantations releases considerable amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. We estimated these values for different land cover types in southern China and assessed the carbon sequestration potential of local rubber plantations. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2009-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/37 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 110, No 1 (2009) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/733 2015-06-02T15:42:53Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "150521 2015 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effects of Tithonia diversifolia, farmyard manure and urea, and phosphate fertiliser application methods on maize yields in western Kenya Opala, Peter Asbon Department of Soil Science, Maseno University Kisinyo, Peter Oloo Rongo University College, P.O. Box 103, Rongo, Kenya Nyambati, Robert Orangi Kenya Forestry Research Institute, Maseno Regional Centre, P.O. Box 25199, Kisumu Kenya Array Maize production in western Kenya is often limited by deficiencies of nitrogen and phosphorus. We assessed the effectiveness of Tithonia diversifolia green manure (tithonia), farmyard manure (FYM) and urea as sources of nitrogen (N) for maize when inorganic phosphorus (P) fertiliser was either broadcast (BR) or spot-placed in the planting hole (SP) for two consecutive seasons; October to December of 1998 and April to August of 1999 at two sites; Nyabeda and Khwisero in western Kenya. A randomised complete block design with four replications was used. Maize yields were higher at Nyabeda and responded to P application better than at Khwisero. At the same N rate, tithonia and FYM were as effective as urea in increasing maize yields at both sites. There were no significant differences in maize yields when phosphate fertiliser was either BR or SP regardless of the N source used in the first season. However, in the second season, the residual yields for the BR treatments were consistently higher than those of the SP. Our results suggest that tithonia and FYM can substitute for urea as N sources and that fertiliser P should be broadcast and incorporated together with the organic materials at the time of planting to save on labour costs. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2015-05-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2015011347180 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 116, No 1 (2015) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/184 2013-04-16T21:33:58Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "100907 2010 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Learning achievements of farmers during the transition to market-oriented organic agriculture in rural Uganda Hauser, Michael BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences Gregor Mendel-Straße 33, A-1180 Vienna, Austria Tel. (+43-1) 47 654-3766. Fax (+43-1) 47 654-2961 Aigelsperger, Lisa BOKU - University of Natural Resources and Applied Life Sciences, Vienna, Austria Owamani, Amos Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility Institute of the International Centre for Tropical Agriculture (TSBF-CIAT), c/o Kawanda Agricultural Research Institute, Kampala, Uganda Delve, Robert J. Catholic Relief Services, Nairobi, Kenya Array Organic agriculture requires farmers with the ability to develop profitable agro-enterprises on their own. By drawing on four years of experiences with the Enabling Rural Innovation approach in Uganda, we outline how smallholder farmers transition to organic agriculture and, at the same time, increase their entrepreneurial skills and competences through learning. In order to document this learning we operationalised the Kirkpatrick learning evaluation model, which subsequently informed the collection of qualitative data in two study sites. Our analysis suggests that the Enabling Rural Innovation approach helps farmers to develop essential capabilities for identifying organic markets and new organic commodities, for testing these organic commodities under varying organic farm management scenarios, and for negotiating contracts with organic traders. We also observed several obstacles that confront farmers transition to organic agriculture when using the Enabling Rural Innovation approach. These include the long duration of agronomic experimentation and seed multiplication, expensive organic certification procedures and the absence of adequate mechanism for farmers to access crop finance services. Despite prevailing obstacles we conclude that the Enabling Rural Innovation approach provides a starting point for farmers to develop entrepreneurial competences and profitable agro-enterprises on their own. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2010-09-07 17:57:40 Peer-reviewed Article application/x-pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2010082734305 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 111, No 1 (2010) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/6073 2026-03-26T14:34:30Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "260310 2026 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Reflecting on livestock-related interventions in the 2020-2023 drought in Ethiopia and identifying areas for improvement: A qualitative study of expert opinions Herrington, Rosie University of Edinburgh University of York https://edwebprofiles.ed.ac.uk/profile/rosieherrington https://orcid.org/0009-0002-2706-9166 Kelly, Robert F. Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies and the Roslin Institute, University of Edinburgh, Easter Bush Campus, Roslin, Midlothian, EH25 9RG, UK Array Between 2020 and 2023 Ethiopia faced its worst drought for four decades, losing over four million livestock and placing over twelve million people into food insecurity. The overall aim of this study was to gain detailed, real reflections on the livestock-related humanitarian interventions used during the 2020-2023 drought to improve future efforts. More specifically this study aimed to evaluate the livestock-related drought interventions in Ethiopia; identify key areas requiring improvement for future responses; and explore potential solutions which could improve relevant interventions for future droughts in Ethiopia, given the trends of climate change. A qualitative thematic analysis was conducted of in-depth key informant interviews of experts in Addis Ababa and the Borana district, using open/inductive and axial coding techniques (n=7). This yielded four major themes and thirteen sub-themes, The main findings of this study include that during the 2020-2023 drought in Ethiopia, the interviewed experts felt that timing of funding release/response was too late; responses such as vaccination, de-stocking and Index Based Livestock Insurance (IBLI) were not used optimally; and that rangeland and water management need prioritisation to improve sustainability and resilience. This study argues that further research is needed to understand why resources were not mobilised in a timely manner, why organisations continue to provide responses against guidelines and what resources and partnerships are needed to improve existing efforts. It recommends a focus shift towards core, natural resource inputs and that a streamlined resource mobilisation procedure be designed and implemented.  German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2026-01-15 14:28:20 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2026011411805 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 127 (2026) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/6073/20997 Copyright (c) 2026 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4859 2023-02-21T20:51:31Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "221228 2022 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Identification of socio-economic characteristics and farmers’ practices affecting rice (Oryza spp.) yields in Benin (West Africa) Wabi, Moudjahid Akorédé 1-Laboratory of Tropical and Subtropical Agriculture and Ethnobotany (LTSAE), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent (Belgium) 2-Laboratoire de Biomathématiques et d’Estimations Forestière, Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Université d’Abomey-Calavi, 04 BP 1525 Cotonou (Bénin) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1854-7306 Vanhove, Wouter 1-Laboratory of Tropical and Subtropical Agriculture and Ethnobotany (LTSAE), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent (Belgium). Idohou, Rodrigue 1-Laboratoire de Biomathématiques et d’Estimations Forestière, Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Université d’Abomey-Calavi, 04 BP 1525 Cotonou (Bénin). 2-Ecole de Gestion et de Production Végétale et Semencière, Université Nationale d’Agriculture, BP 43 Kétou (Bénin). Hounkpèvi, Achille 1-Laboratoire de Biomathématiques et d’Estimations Forestière, Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Université d’Abomey-Calavi, 04 BP 1525 Cotonou (Bénin). Glèlè Kakaï, Romain Lucas 1-Laboratoire de Biomathématiques et d’Estimations Forestière, Faculté des Sciences Agronomiques, Université d’Abomey-Calavi, 04 BP 1525 Cotonou (Bénin). Van Damme, Patrick 1-Laboratory of Tropical and Subtropical Agriculture and Ethnobotany (LTSAE), Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent (Belgium). 2-Faculty of Tropical AgriSciences, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Kamycka 129, 165 21 Prague 6 Suchdol (Czech Republic). https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2548-633X Array Rice (Oryza spp.) is one of the major staple foods in Benin. Benin has increased rice production through the expansion of cultivation area rather than increasing rice yields. To better understand the factors affecting rice yields, a thorough understanding of the current rice production system characteristics and constraints is required. The present study identifies socio-economic characteristics and farmers’ practices affecting rice yields and suggests improved cultivation practices in the sector. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews, including socio-economic characteristics and rice cultivation practices from 230 randomly selected rice producers in North and Central Benin. Descriptive statistics and cluster analysis were used to group rice producers into different groups. Findings revealed that the proportion of rice producers having access to credit was low (33.5 %). Out of seventeen variables, only three (lowland rice cultivation, irrigated rice cultivation and total land cultivated area) discriminated best the rice producers in three (03) clusters with distinct characteristics in terms of socio-economics factors and cropping practices affecting rice yields. Most respondents (more than 70 %) did not practice crop rotation or fallow. This, together with low levels of chemical fertiliser applications and type of rice cultivation, explains poor rice production in particular in clusters 1 and 2. Yield enhancement is possible through the combination of lowland and irrigated cultivation performed by farmers in cluster 3 with the highest mean rice yield (3.8 t.ha-1). We suggest tackling the specific characteristics and needs of rice producers would more adequately help to improve rice yields. Interventions to enhance rice yields include training on best rice production practices, provision of input subsidies and access to irrigation tailored to the specific constraints and needs of each rice grower type. Finally, enabling access to credit will improve productivity of rice farmers in Benin. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2022-12-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202212057195 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 123, No 2 (2022) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4859/16604 Copyright (c) 2022 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3638 2020-01-13T13:30:22Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "191217 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Constraints to commercialisation of smallholder agriculture in Tanintharyi division, Myanmar Snoxell, Shaun Lincoln University Lyne, Michael Lincoln University Array Myanmar is a country in rapid economic and political transition, with opportunities emerging for its smallholders to benefit from current economic growth. However many smallholders are trapped in semi-subsistence agriculture, disconnected from markets. Commercialisation can increase farm incomes, and - through the multiplier effect - lead to wider pro-poor growth in the rural economy. However, there are many constraints to commercialisation that prevent this process from occurring. While literature on constraints confronting smallholders abounds internationally, there is a paucity of literature on the challenges confronting smallholders in Myanmar. This study investigates constraints to commercial farming in the townships (districts) of Myeik and Palaw in Myanmar’s Tanintharyi Division. A representative two-stage sample of 259 rural households was drawn from these townships, and data relating to livelihoods and agricultural enterprises were gathered using a structured questionnaire. The most important determinants of commercialisation identified using Heckman regression were the household’s land endowment, liquidity, land quality, and productive assets. Access to affordable financial services could boost household liquidity and investment in farm inputs, assets and improvements to land, so alleviating the most important constraints to commercial farming. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2019-12-02 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/20191212867 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 120, No 2 (2019) eng Copyright (c) 2019 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/62 2016-04-06T08:05:18Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Spread of Tuberculosis in Cattle Stocks in Various Areas of Tajikistan Mirsojev, D. M. Steinstr. 19, D-37213 Witzenhausen Drauschke, W. Leipzig Array The publication shows that cattle stocks have severely suffered from tuberculosis in the investigated periods (1943 - 1994) in the Republic of Tadzhikistan. The main causes for this situation can be seen in the insufficient implementation of – veterinary measures, – diagnostical control of stocks and – long term control of suffering stocks. Insufficient desinfection of sheds as well as poor qualification of veterinary staff and bad feeding conditions have also contributed to this situation. The implementation of these measures will contribute to diminishing and, in the future, to complete controlling tuberculosis of the cattle stocks in the Republic of Tadzhikistan: carefully investigating the cattle stocks with regard to suffering from tuberculosis, strictly obeying prescriptions and recommendations and systematic and planful work of all staff responsible. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2004-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/62 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 105, No 2 (2004) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1955 2016-06-10T14:36:12Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "160426 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Meat yield and quality of Tanzania Shorthorn Zebu cattle finished on molasses/maize grain with agro-processing by-products in 90 days feedlot period Asimwe, Lovince Sokoine University of Agriculture Kimambo, Abiliza Department of Animal Science and Production, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania Laswai, Germana Department of Animal Science and Production, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania Mtenga, Louis Department of Animal Science and Production, Sokoine University of Agriculture, Morogoro, Tanzania Weisbjerg, Martin Department of Animal Science, AU Foulum, Aarhus University, Tjele, Denmark Madsen, Jorgen Department of Larger Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg, Denmark Safari, John Institute of Rural Development Planning, Dodoma, Tanzania Array This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of feeding molasses or maize grain with agro-processing by-products on yield and quality of meat from Tanzania shorthorn zebu (TSZ) cattle. Forty five steers aged 2.5 to 3.0 years with 200 +/- 5.4 kg body weight were allocated into five dietary treatments namely hominy feed with molasses (HFMO), rice polishing with molasses (RPMO), hominy feed with maize meal (HFMM), rice polishing with maize meal (RPMM) and maize meal with molasses (MMMO). Ad libitum amount of each dietary treatment and hay were offered to nine steers for 90 days. Cooking loss (CL) and Warner Bratzler shear force (WBSF) values were determined on M. longissimus thoracis et lumborum aged for 3, 6, 9 and 12 days. Steers fed on HFMO diet had higher (P 0.05) nutrient intake (86.39 MJ/d energy; 867 g/d CP), weight gain (919 g/d) and half carcass weight (75.8 kg) than those fed other diets. Meat of steers from all diets was tender with average WBSF values of 47.9 Ncm^(−2). The CL (22.0 +/- 0.61%) and WBSF (53.4 +/- 0.70 N cm^(−2)) were highest in meat aged for 3 days followed by 6, 9 and 12 days. WBSF values for meat aged for 9 and 12 days from steers fed HFMO and RPMM diets were similar and lower than those on other dietary treatments x aging periods. Overall, molasses and hominy feed can be used to replace maize meal in feedlot finishing diets to spare its use in animal feeds. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2016030349953 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 1 (2016) eng Copyright (c) 2016

oai:jarts.info:article/322 2013-04-16T21:29:09Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "120919 2012 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effects of dietary lipid source on growth, digestibility and tissue fatty acid composition of Heterobranchus longifilis fingerlings Babalola, Theophilus Olayiwola Department of Animal Science, Landmark University, Omu Aran, Nigeria Apata, David Friday Department of Animal Production, University of Ilorin, Nigeria Array One of the major problems facing aquaculture is the inadequate supply of fish oil mostly used for fish feed manufacturing. The continued growth in aquaculture production cannot depend on this finite feed resources, therefore, it is imperative that cheap and readily available substitutes that do not compromise fish growth and fillet quality be found. To achieve this, a 12-week feeding trial with Heterobranchus longifilis fed diets differing in lipid source was conducted. Diets were supplemented with 6% lipid as fish oil, soybean oil, palm oil, coconut oil, groundnut oil and melon seed oil. Triplicate groups of 20 H. longifilis were fed the experimental diets two times a day to apparent satiation, over 84 days. Growth, digestibility, and muscle fatty acid profile were measured to assess diet effects. At the end of the study, survival, feed intake and hepatosomatic index were similar for fish fed experimental diets. However, weight gain, SGR and FCR of fish fed soybean oil-based diet was significantly reduced. Apparent nutrient digestibility coefficients were significantly lower in fish fed soybean, coconut and groundnut oil-based diets. Fillet and hepatic fatty acid compositions differed and reflected the fatty acid compositions of the diets. Docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3), 20:5n-3 and 20:4n-6 were conserved in vegetable oils-based diets fed fish possibly due to synthesis of HUFA from 18:3n-3 and 18:4n-6. Palm oil diet was the least expensive, and had the best economic conversion ratio. The use of vegetable oils in the diets had positive effect on growth and fillet composition of H. longifilis. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2012-09-19 13:46:28 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2012061541299 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 113, No 1 (2012) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5748 2025-06-10T08:34:54Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "250206 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc A review of climate-smart agriculture in Asia: Critical achievements, key challenges, and potential prospects Nguyen, Hang Thi Thuy Faculty of Economics and Development Studies, University of Economics, Hue University Le, Thi Quynh Anh Faculty of Economics and Development Studies, University of Economics, Hue University Tuyen, Mai Chiem Faculty of Economics and Development Studies, University of Economics, Hue University Hung, Pham Xuan Faculty of Economics and Development Studies, University of Economics, Hue University Array Climate change is posing a risk to rural communities and smallholders in Asia, whose livelihoods traditionally depend on farming. To address this, climate-smart agriculture (CSA) is widely encouraged for sustainable development. Despite global recognition of CSA, there is currently limited evidence to generalise and evaluate the practical implementation of CSA in this region. Given various agro-climate conditions, institutional settings, and socioeconomic backgrounds, this paper conducted a systematic review of the achievements, challenges, and prospects of CSA in Asian countries. We classified nine groups of CSA practices: conservation agriculture, water management, climate-resilient varieties, agricultural diversification, integrated pest management, nutrient management, precision farming, agrivoltaics, and livestock management. The linkages of enabling policies, knowledge transfer, market conditions, financial mechanisms, and socioeconomic background are crucial in supporting the performance and sustainability of CSA. In addition to the achievements in distinct criteria (productivity, adaptation, and mitigation), key challenges include the lack of enforcing guidelines, the shortage of learning platforms, the limitation of financial support, and the weakness of coordination among partnerships in the long term. To promote CSA in Asia, the engagement of multi-stakeholders at multi-levels should be increased to enhance the capacities of farming households and help them adopt responsive actions to local conditions. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025011410816 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 1 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4416 2021-12-31T15:56:33Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "211102 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Genotypic differences in body weight and physiological response of local and exotic turkeys challenged with Salmonella typhimurium Ilori, Babatunde Moses Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, PMB 2240 Abeokuta, Ogun State http://orcid.org/0000-0002-5316-1495 Oguntade, David Oluwafemi Ambrose Alli University http://orcid.org/0000-0003-4342-7154 Abiona, John Adesanya Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta Durosaro, Samuel Olutunde Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta http://orcid.org/0000-0002-2613-3026 Isidahomen, Clement Ebanehitah Ambrose Alli University, Ekpoma Ozoje, Michael Ohiokhuaobo Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta http://orcid.org/0000-0003-0737-135X Array To better understand susceptibility and/ or tolerance of locally adapted turkey to salmonellosis, we compared bodyweight, antibody titres and physiological traits based on genotype and sex of salmonella-infected turkeys. Three hundred poults from two genotypes (160 local and 140 exotic turkeys) were raised for twenty weeks. Bodyweight (BW), rectal temperature (RT), pulse rate (PR) and respiratory rate (RR) were measured weekly. Blood samples were collected from each turkey before and after inoculations at week 8 and 13 for serum antibody detection using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Genotype had a significant (p 0.05) effect on all the parameters measured. Exotic turkey had higher weight than local while sexual dimorphism was in favour of toms despite challenge with Salmonella typhimurium. The RT was significantly higher (p 0.05) in exotic turkeys except at week 2, 6 and 8. In like manner, PR was higher (p 0.05) in exotic turkey except at week 4 (204.28±2.48 beats/minutes) and 8 (216.98±1.46 beats/minutes) where it was higher in local turkey. RR also followed the same trend while HSI was higher (p 0.05) in week 2 (1.53±0.06 breaths/minutes) and 14 (1.17±0.07 breaths/minutes) in exotic turkeys. Local turkeys had higher (p 0.05) antibodies against Salmonella organisms before and after inoculation while the hens of both genotypes had higher (p 0.05) antibody titres at the 7th day after inoculations. The present results seemed not to be convincing enough to suggest differences in tolerance/susceptibility to Salmonella infection and therefore the two genotypes may be equally adapted. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-08-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202110274960 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 2 (2021) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4416/15260 Copyright (c) 2021 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/3130 2018-07-02T09:22:06Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "180611 2018 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The role of trust and networks in developing Nicaraguan farmers’ agribusiness capacities Landmann, Dirk Hauke Policy, Trade and Value Chains Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya; Department of Agricultural Economics and Rural Development, Georg-August-Universität Göttingen, Göttingen, Germany https://www.uni-goettingen.de/de/511472.html Cadilhon, Jean-Joseph Policy, Trade and Value Chains Program, International Livestock Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya Array The main focus of most programmes in developing countries carried out by NGOs is to develop small-scale farmers’ capacities. One approach hereby is to use multi-stakeholder innovation systems, such as the ‘Nicaraguan Learning Alliance’ (NLA). However, tools for the evaluation of multi-stakeholder innovation systems are rare. This paper reports on the implementation of a conceptual framework to carry out an impact evaluation of multi-stakeholder innovation systems using the NLA as the object of study. The assessment focused on the business relationship constructs of trust and capacity development. Survey interviews, in-depth interviews and focus group discussions collected data from agribusiness stakeholders linked with the NLA and from a control group of stakeholders involved with other networks. The quantitative data were analysed through factor and regression analyses. Results from the quantitative analyses were triangulated with qualitative data. The analysis shows that the NLA has been successful in developing smallholder farmers’ capacities as a result of trust developed through its dedicated project managers. Nonetheless, the NLA has not been more successful at developing agribusiness capacities among Nicaraguan farmers than other networks with the same goals. Results from this study point to the need for facilitating more interactions between the different networks of farmers’ cooperatives and organisations with other stakeholders already active within the Nicaraguan agrifood innovation system. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2018-04-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2018010454150 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 119, No 1 (2018) eng Copyright (c) 2018 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/28 2016-04-06T08:30:49Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Performance of Different Tomato Genotypes in the Arid Tropics of Sudan during the Summer Season. I. Vegetative Growth Abdelmageed, Adil H.A. Department of Horticulture, University of Khartoum, Sudan Gruda, Nazim Institute for Horticultural Sciences, Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany El-Balla, Mustafa Mohamed Ali Department of Horticulture, University of Khartoum, Sudan Array Selected, eleven tomato genotypes of diverse origin were grown in a glasshouse of the Humboldt University of Berlin, Germany during 2002 and under field conditions in Shambat, University of Khartoum, Sudan for two successive seasons (2002/2003, 2003/2004). High temperatures under field conditions resulted in poor stand and stunted growth of tomato plants. Highly significant differences were encountered among the different genotypes for leaf area, leaf area ratio, leaf weight ratio, stem fresh and dry weight and leaf fresh and dry weight. Based on results obtained from this study, the genotype ‘Summerset’ proved to be more tolerant under high temperature conditions in comparison to other investigated genotypes and may be useful for exploitation under arid tropical region of Sudan. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2010-05-03 23:18:50 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/28 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 110, No 2 (2009) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1884 2014-12-31T17:26:14Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "141231 2014 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Study of individual lactation patterns of Iranian dairy buffaloes Shokrollahi, Borhan Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sanandaj branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Iran Hasanpour, Karim Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agricultural Science, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran Array The aims of the current study were 1) to investigate the effects of some environmental factors on lactation curve traits (LCTs) including initial milk yield (A), peak yield (PY), days to attain peak yield (PD), inclining- and declining slope of lactation (B and C, respectively), persistency (Per), and 240-d milk yield, and 2) to estimate pairwise phenotypic correlations between these traits in two Iranian buffalo ecotypes (Khuzestani and Azeri buffaloes). The dataset consisted of 15396 and 9283 lactations from 6632 Khuzestani and 3558 Azeri buffaloes, respectively (collected during 1992–2009). The results revealed that almost all of the factors had significant effects on the majority of the LCTs, whereby age group, parity and season of calving had greater influence on 240-d milk yield and PY than the other LCTs in both of the ecotypes. These effects were more apparent in Khuzestani buffaloes than in Azeri buffaloes. In the Khuzestani ecotype, the LCTs were significantly correlated with each other. However, in the Azeri ecotype the 240-d milk yield showed no significant relationship with parameters B, PD and Per. In conclusion, the studied factors play an important role in determining both the shape of the lactation curve and the overal performance of Iranian dairy buffaloes. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2014-12-31 18:26:14 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2014121946912 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 115, No 2 (2014) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/118 2016-04-06T10:30:26Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "100516 2010 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Fruticultura orgánica en el trópico: Situación y ejemplos de Mesoamérica Pohlan, H. Alfred Jürgen Universität Bonn, INRES, Auf dem Hügel 6, D-53121 Bonn, Germany Email: drpohlan@excite.com Gamboa Moya, William G. Paraiso, Cartago, Apartado Postal 129-7100, Costa Rica, Email: williamgamboa@yahoo.com Salazar Centeno, Dennis J. UNA Managua, carretera Norte km 12.5, Nicaragua, Email: Dennis.Salazar@una.edu.ni Marroquín Agreda, Francisco Universität Bonn, INRES, Auf dem Hügel 6, D-53121 Bonn, Germany Janssens, Marc J. J. Universität Bonn, INRES, Auf dem Hügel 6, D-53121 Bonn, Germany Leyva Galán, Ángel INCA, Cuba, San José de Las Lajas, Apartado Postal # 1, Cuba Email: luleyva23@yahoo.es Guzman, Elena Instituto Tecnológico de Villahermosa, Villahermosa 86019, Tabasco, México, Email: eguzmanr5@hotmail.com Toledo Toledo, Ernesto Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas, Entronque Carretera Costera y Estación Huehuetán, Huehuetán, Chiapas; Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Campus IV, México, Email: etoledo2720@yahoo.com.mx Gómez Àlvarez,, Regino El Colegio de la Frontera Sur-Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, México, Email: regomez@vhs.ecosur.mx Array La situación en la fruticultura orgánica de Mesoamérica no es fácil a cualificar y cuantificar. Indudablemente existen áreas certificadas sin embargo faltan datos exactos. En otra manera muchos campesinos cultivan frutas y vegetales sin el uso de fertilizantes inorgánicos y sin aplicaciones de pesticidazas por falta de insumos propios. Este estudio esta basado en ejemplos y practicas conocidas y trata a reflejar filosofías practicas del campesinado y las fortalezas y debilidades correspondientes. De lo mas énfasis se ha dedicado al chayote en Costa Rica y México, a la pitahaya en Nicaragua, a la papaya en el Estado Tabasco y al mango, rambutan y caña de azúcar en el estado Chiapas, México, y a las huertas familiares en Cuba. Resultados de una encuesta entre consumidores reflejan el interés para consumir productos orgánicos, establecer la interacción agricultores-consumidores como parte del proceso de desarrollo agroecológico y fortalecer la educación de los consumidores y productores en los aspectos agroecológicos y de salud. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2007-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/118 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 108, No 2 (2007) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5343 2024-02-23T09:07:20Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "231229 2023 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Evaluation of the breeding soundness test for Bonga sheep in the context of a community-based breeding programme in Ethiopia Abate, Zelalem Southwest Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute at Bonga Agricultural research Centre, Bonga, Ethiopia PO Box 101 https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6040-9308 Areb, Ebadu South Agricultural Research Institute at Werabe Agricultural research Centre, Werabe, Ethiopia PO Box 021 https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2715-5523 Belay, Nahom Southwest Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute at Bonga Agricultural research Centre, Bonga, Ethiopia PO Box 101 https://orcid.org/0000-0003-0443-0422 Gebremikael, Adisu Southwest Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute at Bonga Agricultural research Centre, Bonga, Ethiopia PO Box 101 Gebresilase, Tegbaru Southwest Ethiopia Agricultural Research Institute at Bonga Agricultural research Centre, Bonga, Ethiopia PO Box 101 Array The aims of this study were to evaluate sire selection traits and semen characteristics for Bonga sheep. A total of 101 sires with different birth year from the Bonga sheep community based breeding programme (CBBP) were used to collect data. The data was analysed by using the GLM procedure of SAS and least square means was separated by using adjusted Tukey-Kramer method. The breeding soundness tests consisted of physical examinations, sire body condition score (BCS), scrotum circumference, estimated breeding value (EBV), six months body weight (SMWT), and semen characteristics (volume, motility, and concentration) collected using an artificial vagina. The overall least square means ± SE for scrotum circumference, EBV, and six-month body weight of Bonga sheep were 28.20 ± 0.381 cm, 2.13 ± 0.326, and 24.69 ± 0.547 kg, respectively. Similarly, semen volume, mass motility, sperm concentration, and total spermatozoa of Bonga sheep was 1.14±0.076 ml, 4.28±0.138 million/ml, 4.25±0.195 billion/ml, and 4.86±0.393 billion/ml, respectively. A sire with thin BCS resulted in low scrotum circumference (P 0.001) and questionable semen characteristics (P 0.05). The body weight and the scrotum circumference of the Bonga sheep increased with age, but the breeding value fluctuated. . Both a large scrotum and a good BCS sire produce a high volume of semen and has simultaneously better motility and concentration. This will enable to increase the fertility of a sire under CBBP. The scrotum circumference of Bonga sheep in relation to their body weight can be categorised as either satisfactory or excellent. Body weight of Bonga sheep was increased across sire birth year but fluctuating trend for breeding value. Scrotum circumference increased with increasing age from grower to mature stage of a sire. Both large scrotum circumference and good BCS sire produces high semen volume and has simultaneously better motility and concentration. This will enable to increase fertility of a sire under CBBP. We can categorize scrotum circumference of Bonga sheep either satisfactory or excellent with the proportion of their body weight. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2023-11-02 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202312229275 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 124, No 2 (2023) eng Copyright (c) 2023 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3955 2020-12-28T07:40:01Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "200812 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Morphology, biochemistry, and management of Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L.) accessions in Gilgit-Baltistan, northern Pakistan Azmat, Muhammad Abubakkar Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, University of Agriculture Faisalabad (Burewala Campus), Pakistan Khan, Asif Ali Muhammad Nawaz Shareef University of Agriculture Multan, Pakistan Khan, Iqrar Ahmad Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan Buerkert, Andreas Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, Universität Kassel, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany Wiehle, Martin University of Kassel https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2054-1555 Array Russian olive (Elaeagnus angustifolia L., Elagnaceae) is a native multi-purpose medicinal shrub or tree of Asian regions and an integral component of high altitude terraced agroforestry systems of Gilgit-Baltistan, northern Pakistan. The strong increase in deforestation, urbanisation, and the loss of ethnically-based medication practices in local communities are gradually leading to depletion of its stands and knowledge of its use. In view of these circumstances, this study was undertaken to characterise Russian olive accessions as a first step towards the conservation of this important wild plant genetic resource. Ninety-three fruits (including seeds) and leaves were sampled to determine morphological variability among accessions. In addition, the phenolic composition of fruit pulp of 40 fruits was used for determination of phenolic compounds. To assess the local importance of the fruit, 42 Russian olive collectors and traders were interviewed. Data were analysed using PCA and clustering approaches. Fruit traits across groups were equally shared. Elevation had a positive effect on fruit and seed dimensions especially on length (r = 0.606 and 0.515, respectively) and weight (r = 0.618 and 0.695, respectively). Bioactive substances such as DPPH and flavonoids in the sampled fruits exceeded most values found in the literature by a factor of 100 and 30, respectively. The socio-economic household analysis highlighted that Russian olive harvest and trade is a purely additional income strategy. On average, about 90 € (ca. 16000 PKR) were earned by one household ranging from about 35 € to about 205 € per year. Data yielded a mixed picture on morphological and biochemical diversity as well as the socio-economic background, but indicated that northern regions of Pakistan might be an important centre for biodiversity of this species in Central Asia, which merits improved marketing. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-12-24 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202007291507 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 2 (2020) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/3955/13153 Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/6120 2026-01-19T08:52:15Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "251223 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Factors influencing empowerment of rural women in farm households in Arsi Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia Cherent, Tekelab School of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Beyene, Fekadu School of Rural Development and Agricultural Extension, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Sileshi, Million School of Agricultural Economics and Agribusiness, Haramaya University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia Tirfe, Zegeye Department of Agricultural Economics, Arsi University, Ethiopia Array Rural Ethiopian women play a critical yet under-documented role in farm production and household welfare, but entrenched socio-economic and cultural barriers persistently hinder their empowerment. This study examines the determinants of empowerment among 415 women farm households in Arsi Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia, using a mixed-methods approach that combines the Women's Empowerment in Agriculture Index (WEAI), binary probit regression, structured surveys, and focus group discussions via multi-stage sampling (purposive selection of four districts, random selection of eight farmer associations, and stratification into microfinance participants and non-participants). Findings reveal that only 18% of women exceed the empowerment threshold, highlighting severe disempowerment driven by excessive workloads, lack of leisure time, limited social group involvement, and nervousness in public speaking a WEAI leadership indicator reflecting constrained agency amid cultural norms. Probit analysis identifies age, education, landholding size, livestock ownership, total assets, savings, aspirations, social capital, and dependency ratio as significant positive influencers, with education boosting empowerment probability by 19.2% and total assets by 30.9%. These results underscore the need for integrated, context-specific policies to enhance access to education, economic resources, and social networks, thereby fostering women's agency, inclusive rural development, and amplified agricultural contributions. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-08-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025112411678 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 2 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4627 2022-10-04T13:14:29Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "220820 2022 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Pyrolytic transformation of indigenous biomass wastes into biochar: an insight into char structure and physicochemical characteristics Paul, Nivya Mariam Centre for Research and Evaluation, Bharathiar University, Tamil Nadu, India https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6386-1180 Harikumar, Variampally Sankar Department of Post Graduate Studies and Research in Botany, Sanatana Dharma College, Kerala, India Array Biochar, the product obtained by the pyrolysis of organic materials with little or no available air, acts as a long-term recalcitrant source of organic carbon when applied to soil. In the present study an in-farm method has been standardized for the pyrolytic conversion of four indigenous biomass resources into biochar. The biomass feedstocks viz. bovine bone (BB), coconut shell (CS), rubberwood (RW) and water hyacinth (WH) were dried and subjected to proximate, ultimate, biochemical analysis and were subjected to slow pyrolysis (563oC). The biomass feedstocks showed an ash content ranging from 1.04-61.23%, moisture content of 8.46-20.83%, volatile matter of 27.92-74.92% and fixed carbon of 1.17-18.75%.  The biochar yield was maximum for BB (56.65%). Scanning electron microscope analysis of the biochar samples showed aligned honeycomb like groups with the greatest porosity (3.90-8.43 µm) in WH biochar. X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) analysis showed highest number of elements in WH biochar. The electrical conductivity, bulk density and water holding capacity of the biochars ranged from 102.56-7569.03 µs cm-1, 16.83-72.58 g cm-3 and 57.89-431.17%, respectively. The Fourier Transform Infrared spectrometer (FTIR) analysis of biochar samples showed several functional groups which help them to act as a good soil conditioner. Characteristics of the biochar produced from these biomass wastes revealed its potential as good soil conditioners in crop production systems. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2022-01-25 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202203085856 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 123, No 1 (2022) eng Copyright (c) 2022 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3561 2020-01-13T13:30:22Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "191202 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Assessment of a pragmatic strategy to improve health of kacang goats in subsistence agricultural communities in Indonesian Borneo Wyatt, Jeffrey David University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry http://orcid.org/0000-0002-4846-6745 Winterborn, Andrew N. Veterinarian/Director, Animal Care Services Queens University Kingston, Ontario Canada K7L 3N6 Setiawati, Ibu Goat Health Coordinator ASRI Conservation Department Sukadana, West Kalimantan, Indonesia Muhummad, Yusus Organic Farming Coordinator ASRI Conservation Department Sukadana, West Kalimantan Indonesia Array Poverty limits options available to smallholder, subsistence farmers to prevent or reverse livestock malnutrition and endoparasitism, two of the global drivers of goat morbidity and mortality in resource-constrained, tropical, agricultural communities. Our first study objectives describe changes observed in body condition and anaemia after implementation of three feasible and simple husbandry changes to improve health of smallholder herds of kacang goats in rural, Indonesian Borneo. These changes included routine hoof trimming and increased access to food and fresh water. We observed an impressive six-fold decrease in emaciated animals from 26 % to 4 % and an almost doubling of goats in ideal body condition from 29 % to 54 % after fourteen months of improved hoof care and nutrition. The second study objective described herd health changes observed fourteen months after adding a targeted, selective, refugia deworming regimen to the enhanced husbandry program. We observed a significant decrease in proportion of anaemic goats from 88 % to 74 % fourteen months after initiating the targeted selective herd anthelmintic treatment. Impoverished, smallholder subsistence agricultural communities with limited resources should first initiate feasible husbandry enhancements to begin improving overall herd health especially when anthelmintic expense or availability delays establishing an ideal program which includes a deworming component. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2019-12-02 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/20191030733 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 120, No 2 (2019) eng Copyright (c) 2019 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/53 2016-04-06T08:00:41Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Dendrological analysis of the parks of Dushanbe Ergaschewa, G. N. Saibow, N. S. Drauschke, W. Leipzig Array An analysis of tree varieties growing in the parks of Dushanbe (Tajikistan) is represented in this publication. The plants being found in the territories investigated are listed. Recommendations are given to improve the parks of the town. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2004-05-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/53 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 105, No 1 (2004) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/715 2018-06-20T09:02:39Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "160127 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Development of mechanical methods for cell-tray propagation and field transplanting of dwarf napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.) Utamy, Renny Fatmyah University of Miyazaki Ishii, Yasuyuki University of Miyazaki Idota, Sachiko University of Miyazaki Khairani, Lizah University of Padjadjaran Fukuyama, Kiichi University of Miyazaki Array Since dwarf napiergrass (Pennisetum purpureum Schumach.) must be propagated vegetatively due to lack of viable seeds, root splitting and stem cuttings are generally used to obtain true-to-type plant populations. These ordinary methods are laborious and costly, and are the greatest barriers for expanding the cultivation area of this crop. The objectives of this research were to develop nursery production of dwarf napiergrass in cell trays and to compare the efficiency of mechanical versus manual methods for cell-tray propagation and field transplanting. After defoliation of herbage either by a sickle (manually) or hand-mowing machine, every potential aerial tiller bud was cut to a single one for transplanting into cell trays as stem cuttings and placed in a glasshouse over winter. The following June, nursery plants were trimmed to a 25–cm length and transplanted in an experimental field (sandy soil) with 20,000 plants ha^(−1) either by shovel (manually) or Welsh onion planter. Labour time was recorded for each process. The manual defoliation of plants required 44% more labour time for preparing the stem cuttings (0.73 person-min. stemcutting^(−1)) compared to using hand-mowing machinery (0.51 person-min. stem-cutting^(−1)). In contrast, labour time for transplanting required an extra 0.30 person-min. m^(−2) (14%) using the machinery compared to manual transplanting, possibly due to the limited plot size for machinery operation. The transplanting method had no significant effect on plant establishment or plant growth, except for herbage yield 110 days after planting. Defoliation of herbage by machinery, production using a cell-tray nursery and mechanical transplanting reduced the labour intensity of dwarf napiergrass propagation. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2015112649437 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 1 (2016) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/277 2013-04-16T21:31:51Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "120113 2012 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Heavy metal and microbial loads in sewage irrigated vegetables of Kabul, Afghanistan Safi, Zikrullah Faculty of Agriculture, Kabul University, Kabul, Afghanistan Buerkert, Andreas Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystem Research in the Tropics and Subtropics University of Kassel, Faculty 11 Steinstraße 19 D - 37213 Witzenhausen Array Little is known about the heavy metal and microbial contamination of vegetables produced in Central Asian cities. We therefore measured the concentration of cadmium (Cd), copper (Cu), lead (Pb), and zinc (Zn) and of faecal pathogens (Coliform bacteria, Salmonella sp., Shigella sp., Ascaris lubricoides, Entamoeba sp. and pinworms [Oxyuris vermicularis syn. Enterobius vermicularis]) in soil, irrigation water, and marketed vegetables of Kabul City, Afghanistan. Leaf Pb and Zn concentrations of leafy vegetables were with 1–5 and 33–160 mg kg^{-1} dry weight (DW) several-fold above respective international thresholds of 0.3 mg Pb kg^{-1} and 50 mg Zn kg^{-1}. The tissue concentration of Cu was below threshold limits in all samples except for spinach in one farm. Above-threshold loads of microbes and parasites on vegetables were found in five out of six gardens with coliforms ranging from 0.5–2 × 10^7 cells 100g^{-1} fresh weight (FW), but no Salmonella and Shigella were found. Contamination with 0.2 × 10^7 eggs 100g^{-1} FW of Ascaris was detected on produce of three farms and critical concentrations of Entamoeba in a single case, while Oxyuris vermicularis, and Enterobius vermicularis were found on produce of three and four farms, respectively. Irrigation water had Ascaris, Coliforms, Salmonella, Shigella, Entamoeba, and Oxyuris vermicularis syn. Enterobius vermicularis ranging from 0.35 × 10^7 to 2 × 10^7 cells l^{-1}. The heavy metal and microbial loads on fresh UPA vegetables are likely the result of contamination from rising traffic, residues of the past decades of war and lacking treatment of sewage which needs urgent attention. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2012-01-13 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2011101139347 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 112, No 1 (2011) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5614 2025-01-15T11:38:46Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "241018 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Anti-feedant activity of Pachygone laurifolia (DC.) L.Lian & Wei Wang bark extracts in tobacco cutworm, Spodoptera litura (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) is mediated through biochemical responses and pathological damage Paul, Alina KSCSTE - Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur-680653, Kerala, India Cochin University of Science and Technology, Kochi, 682022, Kerala, India MS, Suprima KSCSTE - Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur-680653, Kerala, India Ravindran, Jayaraj KSCSTE-Kerala Forest Research Institute, Peechi, Thrissur - 680653, Kerala, India https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5422-4064 Array Spodoptera litura is a severe polyphagous insect pest, causing extensive damage to agricultural crops all over the world. The present study was undertaken to investigate the response of S. litura to polarity gradient fractions of Pachygone laurifolia bark extract. The fraction IV and V of P. laurifolia bark possess a significant anti-feedant activity and growth inhibitory effect on S. litura. The active fractions inhibited carboxylesterase activity, whereas no significant difference in total protein content was observed. Alteration in glutathione S- transferase activity and inhibition of acetylcholinesterase activity were noted on exposure of fraction V.  The histopathological studies of the midgut region of the exposed larvae exhibited structural loss, damage in peritrophic membrane and longitudinal muscles, disintegration of goblet cells, oedema and lysis of the epithelial cells compared to control even at minimum concentration of exposure. Gas chromatographic – mass spectrometric analysis was carried out to ascertain the active constituents with the anti-insect properties.  Overall, our findings revealed that fractions of P. laurifolia has significant anti-feedant activity mediated through biochemical mechanisms involving detoxification, oxidative stress and pathological damage. This plant extract has the potential to be developed as biopesticide formulation. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-09-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2024093010895 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 2 (2024) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/5614/18710 Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4209 2021-06-29T11:30:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "210604 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Assessment of pond and integrated aquaculture (IAA) systems in six districts of Tanzania Mulokozi, Deogratias Pius Tanzania Fisheries Research Institute Berg, Håkan Department of Physical Geography, Stockholm University, SE 106 91 Stockholm, Sweden Tamatamah, Rashid Department of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35091 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Lundhd, Torbjörn Department of Animal Nutrition and Management, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Box 7024, 750 07 Uppsala, Sweden Onyango, Paul Department of Aquatic Sciences and Fisheries, University of Dar es Salaam, P.O. Box 35091 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania Array Integrated agriculture and aquaculture systems (IAA) are well known for their ability to improve the overall farm productivity and profitability. This is through recycling of on-farm resources, such as nutrient rich fish pond water and agriculture remains that would otherwise be considered as wastes. The present study explores the existing and potential IAA systems in Tanzania. It also examines management strategies and their influence on fish yield and the economic returns between IAA and non-IAA fish farming. The study assesses farmer’s socio-demographic characteristics and their perception towards fish farming. The study was conducted through an on-site survey of 129 fish ponds owned by 89 farmers in six districts in Tanzania, involving 65 and 64 IAA and non-IAA ponds respectively. Results indicate that tilapia-vegetables is the most common type of IAA practiced by fish famers. Despite higher fish feed use and stocking density in non-IAA ponds, IAA ponds had an average fish yield of 2.46 t ha-1, which was significantly (p0.05) higher than the fish yield of 1.54 t ha-1 found for non-IAA ponds. IAA ponds had also 1.6 and 2.9 times higher (p 0.05) revenue and net profit, respectively, than non-IAA ponds. Additionally, the net return from IAA ponds in an integrated system was significantly (p0.05) higher than when practiced as stand-alone activities. IAA famers were more positive towards fish farming compared to non-IAA farmers. Thus, IAA systems should be promoted among small-scale farmers to cover for an increased fish demand and to improve food security. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-02-16 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202105253965 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 1 (2021) eng Copyright (c) 2021 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/2414 2018-01-03T17:08:13Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "171217 2017 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The role of State Forest Enterprises in the payments for Forest Environmental Services Programme in Vietnam Milan, Florence International Water Management Institute, Southeast Asia Regional Office, P.O. Box 4199, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic Huong, Tran Thi Thu Institute of Agricultural Economics and Social Sciences in the Tropics and Subtropics (490a), University of Hohenheim, Wollgrasweg 43, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany; Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy, Gia Lam, Ha Noi, Vietnam Hoanh, Chu Thai International Water Management Institute, Southeast Asia Regional Office, P.O. Box 4199, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic Suhardiman, Diana International Water Management Institute, Southeast Asia Regional Office, P.O. Box 4199, Vientiane, Lao People’s Democratic Republic Phuong, Nguyen Duy Soils and Fertilizers Research Institute, Dong Ngac, Tu Liem, Ha Noi, Vietnam Zeller, Manfred University of Hohenheim Institute of Agricultural Economics and Social Sciences in the Tropics and Subtropics (490a) Wollgrasweg 43, 70599 Stuttgart, Germany Array To promote pro-poor payments for environmental services, it is necessary to identify institutional options that reduce transaction costs and organisational problems associated with establishing and maintaining contracts with small-scale environmental service providers. This study examined the dual functionality of state forest enterprises (SFEs) in the implementation of the Payments for Forest Environmental Services (PFES) Program in Vietnam. We considered whether SFEs’ involvement in the programme could reduce transaction costs and organisational problems. Data were collected from Tu Ly SFE in Hoa Binh province, northern Vietnam and from implementing agencies at various institutional levels. A survey of households participating in the SFE loan programme, and two stakeholder workshops were executed in 2014. The results revealed that Tu Ly SFE plays an important role in the livelihood of many farmers. A SWOT analysis exhibited SFEs’ advantage over other state agencies in implementing national forest management programmes as there are fewer parties involved with greater autonomy and outreach in the district. This study proposes the acknowledgment of SFEs as environmental service providers in their own forestlands and to use SFEs as intermediaries in the Payments for Forest Environmental Services Programme activities. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2017-06-26 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2017110153667 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 118, No 2 (2017) eng Copyright (c) 2017

oai:jarts.info:article/19 2016-04-04T15:23:43Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The Role and Breeds, Management Systems, Productivity and Development Strategies of Goats in Indonesia: A Review Sodiq, Akhmad University of Jenderal Soedirman, PO. Box 110 Purwokerto, Central Java, Indonesia Tawfik, Ezzat S. Prof. Dr. ; Head of Department of International Animal Husbandry, University of Kassel, Steinstr. 19, D-37213 Witzenhausen Array Small ruminants like sheep and goats are important for a larger part of the Indonesian rural population. The major breeds of goats found in Indonesia are the Kacang and Etawah goats. The biological and economic function of goats have long been recognised. Besides producing animal products, they also provide manure to maintain soil fertility. Goats are kept as an important component of farming activities, particularly by smallholders. The existing goat husbandry is normally the result of hundreds of years of tradition. Different systems of goat production have evolved in response to factors such as climate, need of the owner, economic environment, and level of technology available. The general aim in the management of goat production units is to increase the productivity. The biological productivity of goats is determined by the fundamental processes of reproduction, growth and development and death. Key production traits which should be considered for improving goats’ productivity are adaptability and productivity conditions, reproductive rate, growth rate and carcass value. The objectives of this paper are to review the role and breeds of goats, current management systems and productivity for goats with particular reference to Indonesia, and to discuss the development strategies that may have specific applications in the Indonesian situation. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2003-05-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/19 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 104, No 1 (2003) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1381 2018-06-20T09:11:42Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "140807 2014 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Farmers’ perspectives with regard to arable crop production and deagrarianisation: an analysis of Nkonkobe Municipality, South Africa Manyevere, Alen Agronomy Department, Faculty of Science and Agriculture. University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa Muchaonyerwa, Pardon School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Scottsville 3209, South Africa Laker, Micheal Agronomy Department, Faculty of Science and Agriculture. University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa Mnkeni, Pearson Nyari Stefano Agronomy Department, Faculty of Science and Agriculture. University of Fort Hare, Alice 5700, South Africa Array This exploratory study evaluated biophysical, cultural and socio-economic factors affecting crop production and land utilisation in the Nkonkobe Municipality, South Africa. The study sought to establish what farmers in the area perceive as serious threats to crop production, drivers for land abandonment, and how best current agricultural production could be intensified. The farmers’ perspectives were assessed through interviews using semi-structured and open-ended questionnaires. The results of the study revealed declining crop productivity and increase in land abandonment in the Municipality. The biophysical drivers of land abandonment were low and erratic rainfall and land degradation while the socio-economic drivers were labour shortages due to old age and youth movement to cities, lack of farming equipment and security concerns. The most abandoned crops were maize, sorghum and wheat. This trend was attributed to the labour intensiveness of cereal production and a shift in dietary preference to purchased rice. These findings should be factored in any programmes that seek to increase land utilisation and crop productivity in the Municipality. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2014-08-07 17:42:10 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2014020344887 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 115, No 1 (2014) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/106 2016-04-06T10:33:29Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Threatened and Rare Ornamental Plants Khoshbakht, Korous University of Kassel, FB11, Steinstr. 19, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany / University of Shahid Beheshti, Environmental Science Research Institute, Tehran, Iran E-mail: kkhoshbakht@yahoo.com Hammer, Karl University of Kassel, FB11, Steinstr. 19, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany, E-Mail: khammer@uni-kassel.de Array The application of IUCN criteria and Red List Categories was done for ornamental plants. Main sources of the study were Glen’s book, Cultivated Plants of Southern Africa (Glen, 2002) and the Red List of Threatened Plants, IUCN (2001). About 500 threatened ornamental plants could be found and presented in respective lists. Rare ornamental plants with 209 species is the largest group followed by Vulnerable (147), Endangered (92), Indeterminate (37), Extinct (6) and finally Extinct/Endangered groups with 2 species. A weak positive correlation (r = +0.36 ) was found between the number of threatened species and the number of threatened ornamental species within the families. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2007-05-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/106 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 108, No 1 (2007) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/86 2016-04-06T08:11:24Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Host Suitability of Crops under Yam Intercrop to Root-knot Nematode (Meloidogyne incognita Race 2) in South-Western Nigeria Adegbite, A. A. Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, P. M. B. 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria Adesiyan, S. O. Department of Crop Protection and Environmental Biology, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria Agbaje, G. O. Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, P. M. B. 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria Omoloye, A. A. Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, P. M. B. 5029, Moor Plantation, Ibadan, Nigeria Array Twelve crops commonly grown in association with yam in South-Western Nigeria were evaluated for resistance to root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita (Kofoid and White 1919) Chitwood 1949, race 2 infection using the quantitative modification by Sasser et al. (1984) of host suitability designations of Canto-Saenz (1983) for plants infected with root-knot nematode in 1998 and 1999 planting seasons. Observations, based on gall indices and recovery of the juvenile larvae from the roots and soil indicated that Abelmoschus esculentus, Corchorus olitoris cv Angbadu and Sphenostylis stenocarpa cv Nsukka Brown were highly susceptible, while Arachis hypogaea cv UGA 4, Cajanus cajan cv Cita-2, Cucumis melo cv Bara To139, Manihot esculenta cv TMS 30572, Sorghum bicolor and Zea mays cv DMR-LSR-Y were hyper-susceptible to Meloidogyne incognita race 2 with reproductive factor and gall index of ≤1 and ≥2 respectively. Crotalaria juncea, Mucuna cochinchinensis and Stylosanthes gracilis were resistant to Meloidogyne incognita race 2 with reproductive factor and gall index of ≤1, ≤2 and ≥2 respectively. These intercrops if planted on yam mounds will play a prominent role in altering the populations of root-knot nematode Meloidogyne incognita race 2. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2005-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/86 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 106, No 2 (2005) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5572 2025-03-26T14:30:34Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "240707 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effect of substituting concentrate mix with Cajanus cajan leaf on growth performance traits and carcass components of yearling rams and its potential in mitigating methane production Tadesse, Assefa Hawassa University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6923-9664 Melesse, Aberra Hawassa University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4653-0587 Titze, Natascha University of Hohenheim https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5992-6404 Rodehutscord, Markus University of Hohenheim https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3156-7889 Array The main challenges in ruminant production are to reduce feeding costs and to improve product quality while minimising environmental impact. The use of unconventional feedstuffs may contribute to decrease feeding costs and environmental impact. A study was conducted to investigate the supplementation effect of Cajanus cajan leaves (CCL) on the growth performance and carcass characteristics of yearling rams and its association with methane (CH4) reduction in vitro. Thirty yearling rams with an initial body weight of 15.1±0.68 kg were randomly allocated to five treatment diets with six rams each. A basal diet was prepared to contain 300 g/head/d concentrate mix (CM) for the control group (T1) and treatment (T) diets were formulated by replacing the CM with CCL at 5% (T2), 10% (T3), 15% (T4) and 20% (T5). Data were collected on feed intake, body weight, carcass components, and CH4 production from 24h in vitro gas production (GP). The digestible organic matter (dOM) and metabolizable energy (ME) were estimated from 24h GP. The CCL content of ash was 126 g kg-1 DM of ether extract 43 g kg-1 DM, and crude protein 240 g kg-1 DM. The feed intake, body weight gain, feed efficiency and carcass components were not affected by treatment diets. The 24 h GP (ml g-1 DM) was significantly higher for T1 and T2 diets than that of T4 and T5. The lowest CH4 was obtained from T5 and differed significantly with that of T1 and T2. The ME and dOM values in T1 and T2 diets were higher than those of T4 and T5. The supplementation of CCL considerably reduced the CH4 production across treatment diets without affecting the voluntary feed intake, weight gain and carcass components suggesting its potential as alternative supplement to poor quality forages while keeping CH4 production at a minimum level. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-02-23 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202403129761 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 1 (2024) eng Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4316 2021-06-29T11:30:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "210222 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Litter characteristics of pine shavings, bio-secure pine shavings and sunflower hulls and its impact on broiler performance Smalberger, Mareli Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria Jansen van Rensburg, Christine Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria Array The aim of this study was to investigate the physical characteristics of three litter materials, namely pine shavings (PS), bio-secure, fumigated pine shavings (BS) and sunflower hulls (SH) and its influence on broiler performance over a 33-day production cycle. The experiment was conducted in commercial poultry houses holding 42,500 chicks each, utilising a randomised block design with six house replicates per treatment. Litter samples were collected weekly for analyses of moisture, water-holding capacity, bulk density, pH and litter caking. Broiler footpad dermatitis was monitored at 21 and 31 days, together with acid detergent fibre (ADF) concentration of gizzard content, gizzard weight and small intestinal weight and length of 120 birds per treatment. Broilers across treatments consumed litter material which was evident in increased ADF levels of gizzard contents relative to feed. The SH contained more nutrients based on proximate analysis as compared to other treatments. Rearing on SH led to lower 7-day cumulative mortality, higher kilograms of broilers produced per square meter, average daily gain and slaughter weight. Improvements seen with SH did not alter commercial indicators, namely, production efficiency factor and feed conversion ratio. Litter converged toward similar physical characteristics at the end of production cycles when few differences were observed between treatments due to addition of feed, feathers and excreta. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-02-16 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202102113201 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 1 (2021) eng Copyright (c) 2021 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/2688 2018-01-03T18:38:29Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "170626 2017 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Ameliorative potential of vitamin E on the impact of dietary fumonisin B1 on reproductive performance of female rabbits Gbore, Francis Ayodeji Department of Animal Science, Adekunle Ajasin University, Akungba-Akoko, Nigeria Adu, Olufemi Adesanya Department of Animal Production and Health, The Federal University of Technology, Akure, Nigeria Array Fumonisin B_1 (FB_1), a contaminant of agricultural products, particularly maize worldwide is known to be consumed by farm animals and has been documented to cause various physiological responses in animals. A 15-week trial on the ameliorative potential of vitamin E on the negative impacts of FB_1 on reproductive performance of rabbits was conducted. Forty-nine female rabbits aged 16 to 18 weeks weighing 1.65 to 2.0 kg body weight were assigned to seven experimental feeding groups: the control group received a diet without FB_1, three groups were fed diets containing different concentrations of FB_1 at 2.5, 5.0 or 7.5 mg kg^(−1), and three further groups had diets containing FB_1 and vitamin E i.e., 2.5 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) + 100 mg vitamin E, 5.0 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) + 100 mg vitamin E, and 7.5 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) + 100 mg vitamin E. Data obtained on reproductive parameters - gestation length, litter size, kit weight as well as the kit crown-rump length, were analysed using ANOVA. Serum reproductive hormones - luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin, prostaglanding F_2α (PGF_2α), and estradiol (E_2) levels in rabbits fed diets containing 7.5 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) were significantly lower than those for all other treatments. Rabbits fed diets containing = 5 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) had significantly (p0.05) longer gestation lengths and lower kit weights compared to the other treatment groups. The litter sizes of rabbits fed FB_1-contaminated diets supplemented with vitamin E were significantly (p0.05) higher compared with those on diets not supplemented, including the control. The 21-day postpartum weight gain of kits of does fed diets containing =5.0 mg FB_1 kg^(−1) were significantly (p0.05) lower than the weight gain observed in the other treatment groups. Does fed diets supplemented with vitamin E had significantly (p0.05) higher milk yield compared with does on not supplemented diets, including the control. This study has shown that vitamin E supplementation of does counteracts the adverse impacts of FB 1 on reproductive hormones, gestation length, kit weight, and milk production in rabbits. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2017-06-26 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2017032852303 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 118, No 2 (2017) eng Copyright (c) 2017 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/10 2016-04-04T15:11:31Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Time-Course Changes in High Temperature Stress and Water Deficit During the First Three Days After Sowing in Hydro-Primed Seed: Germinative Behaviour in Sorghum Kader, Mohamad A. Director, Consultica Worldwide, PO Box 3089 Tamarama NSW 2026 Australia, m.kader@mbox.com.au Jutzi, Samuel C. Director, Animal Production and Health Division, FAO, Vialle di Caracalla, 00100 Rome, Italy Array Both drought and heat stresses substantially influence the germination pattern and subsequent establishment rates of sorghum. The timing of high temperature occuarrance, along with water deficit after seed sowing is investigated and methods for its alleviateion are evaluated. Two experiments were conducted on CSV 15 sorghum seeds after soaking treatments in 2, 4 or 6g NaCl l−1 solutions. Several high temperature stress scenarios of 45◦C were administered at various times during the second day after sowing, or at a fixed time during the first, second or third days after sowing. Results revealed that the 18th hour of the second day after sowing is more sensitive, in terms of the final germination percentage and germination index attained, than the 6th, 12th or 24th hour. Seed treatment with 2g NaCl l−1 was superior to untreated seeds in its response to high temperature stress, attaning more positive germinative characteristics. Heat shock on the first day after sowing had more negative impacts on germination than on the second or third days. It also caused an increase in radicle growth at the expense of plumule growth, thus decreasing the plumule:radicle ratio. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2002-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/10 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 103, No 2 (2002) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/544 2014-02-04T16:57:27Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "140130 2014 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Short-term effects of human urine fertiliser and wood ash on soil pH and electrical conductivity Neina, Dora Department of Soil Science, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra Dowuona, Gabriel Nii Noi Department of Soil Science, School of Agriculture, University of Ghana, Legon, Accra Array The fertiliser value of human urine has been examined on several crops, yet little is known about its effects on key soil properties of agronomic significance. This study investigated temporal soil salinization potential of human urine fertiliser (HUF). It further looked at combined effects of human urine and wood ash (WA) on soil pH, urine-NH_3 volatilisation, soil electrical conductivity (EC), and basic cation contents of two Acrisols (Adenta and Toje series) from the coastal savannah zone of Ghana. The experiment was a factorial design conducted in the laboratory for 12 weeks. The results indicated an increase in soil pH by 1.2 units for Adenta series and 1 unit for Toje series after one week of HUF application followed by a decline by about 2 pH units for both soil types after twelve weeks. This was attributed to nitrification of ammonium to nitrate leading to acidification. The EC otherwise increased with HUF application creating slightly saline conditions in Toje series and non-saline conditions in Adenta series. When WA was applied with HUF, both soil pH and EC increased. In contrast, the HUF alone slightly salinized Toje series, but both soils remained non-saline whenWA and HUF were applied together. The application ofWA resulted in two-fold increase in Ca, Mg, K, and Na content compared to HUF alone. Hence, WA is a promising amendment of acid soils and could reduce the effect of soluble salts in human urine fertilizer, which is likely to cause soil salinity. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2014-01-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2013081343323 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 114, No 2 (2013) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/97 2010-05-13T20:36:58Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc A Profitability Analysis of Investment of Peach and Apple Growing in Turkey Uzunöz, Meral Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Gaziosmanpasa, Taslıciftlik 60240, Tokat - Turkey Akcay, Yasar Department of Agricultural Economics, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Gaziosmanpasa, Taslıciftlik 60240, Tokat - Turkey Array This study was conducted to determine profitability and feasibility of fruit farms by investment analysis in Tokat - Turkey. The criteria of Net Present Value (NPV ), Cost-Benefit Ratio (CBR) and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) were used for investment analysis. Three different discount rates (10%, 8% and 5%) were used to get the NPV and CBR for peach and apple. The NPV for peach were found to be positive (1113.6 $/da; 1454.7 $/da; and 2156.2 $/da). Also the NPV for apple were found to be positive (574.2 $/da; 805.4 $/da; and 1342.9 $/da). In addition to that, the CBR for peach were bigger than 1 (1.38; 1.43 and 1.51) and the CBR for apple were bigger than 1 (1.23; 1.27 and 1.33). The IRR for peach was 25.05 percent and 22.12 for apple. According to the results that were achieved by the study, it could be conducted that the investment is economically feasible. In the light of the findings of the present study, it can be perceived that the fruit farming can be one of the most important income sources for the farmers growing fruit in the research region in Turkey. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2006-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/97 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 107, No 1 (2006) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5328 2024-02-23T09:07:20Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "231107 2023 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Female farmers in the Galapagos: An invisible force Gualoto, Ekaterina 1. University of Greifswald, Faculty of Landscape Ecology, 17489, Greifswald, Germany 2. International Sustainability Academy, a project from Schutzgemeinschaft Deutscher Wald LV HH e.V., 21109, Hamburg, Germany Array Despite the crucial contributions of women to agriculture and food security, female farmers in the Galapagos Islands face persistent challenges that hinder the recognition and valuation of their work. Furthermore, the lack of gender-disaggregated data tailored to their local and contextual realities presents an ongoing challenge for evidence-based policy formulation, hampering the response to their specific needs and challenges. Taking a departure from the dominant quantitative approach in agricultural research, this scholarly article delves into the Galapagos Islands as a socio-ecological system, employing qualitative methods that integrate meaning and emotion. With the objective of exploring the role of women in Galapagos' agriculture, the study contributes to the gender discourses and advances knowledge on the gendered dimensions of agriculture in the Galapagos Islands. Employing semi-structured in-depth interviews, focus groups, and a thematic analysis guided by Ecofeminist Ethics of Care approaches, the research draws upon the lived experiences of 26 female farmers from six parishes in the highlands of Santa Cruz Island. Their narratives sheds light on the nuanced needs, responsibilities, challenges, and concerns that shape the experiences of these women. Our empirical findings reveal four key dimensions characterizing the role of female farmers: providing nutritious food to families and communities, transmitting knowledge and retaining skills, diversifying the agroecosystem, and conserving the environment. Moreover, our investigation highlights the ongoing marginalization experienced by these women across various domains. They encounter significant challenges that hinder their equitable and meaningful engagement in agriculture, including the double burden of childcare and household responsibilities, financial constraints, discriminatory practices, and tokenism. We arrive at the conclusion that, female farmers in the Galapagos exhibit a caregiving orientation within their farming practices. Recognising the significance of their role is imperative. To nurture these caregiving practices, addressing their challenges, such as improving living conditions and providing enhanced opportunities, is paramount. Consequently, we offer actionable recommendations for gender mainstreaming in the Galapagos' agricultural sector. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2023-11-02 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202311028938 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 124, No 2 (2023) eng Copyright (c) 2023 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3937 2020-07-08T15:19:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "200630 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Typology of smallholder’s pig production systems in South Kivu, Democratic Republic of Congo: Challenges and opportunities Mugumaarhahama, Yannick Université Evangélique en Afrique https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4690-502X Mutwedu, Valence Bwana Université Evangélique en Afrique https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7360-2374 Kazamwali, Léonard Muzee Université Evangélique en Afrique Mushagalusa, Arsène Ciza Université Evangélique en Afrique Bantuzeko, Fabrice Kwankanaba Université Evangélique en Afrique Ndjadi, Serge Shakanye Université Evangélique en Afrique Ndeko, Adrien Byamungu Université Evangélique en Afrique Cirezi, Nadège Cizungu Université Evangélique en Afrique Azine, Pascaline Ciza Université Evangélique en Afrique Ayagirwe, Rodrigue Basengere-Balthazar Université Evangélique en Afrique https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5019-0653 Array Pig farming plays an important role in farmers’ livelihoods in many tropical countries. It contributes to food security of the poorest as well as the development of rural economy through multiplier effects. In the South Kivu province, pig farms are almost exclusively owned by smallholders. A few studies have attempted to describe thoroughly pig farming systems in this province. This study was undertaken to characterise pig production systems, in order to better understand their current situation, namely constraints they face and opportunities they offer. Investigation was conducted based on a structured survey questionnaire and participatory interviews with the owners of 989 farms in South-Kivu. Collected data was analysed using Multiple Correspondence Analysis and clustering techniques. Results showed that there are two types of smallholder pig farms differing mainly in the type of husbandry and feeding management. One category includes farms that raise pigs in free-range system consuming forages and scavenge feed (heaps picked-up from garbage and trash on their ways), which are sometimes, combined with crop residues and kitchen leftovers. The second category includes improved pig farms raising tethered pigs or in lairage where feed is mostly based on forages combined with kitchen leftovers, crop residues and concentrate feed. Nevertheless, all these different farm types share many common characteristics, including having pigs of local breeds, small herd sizes, absence of breeding boars and absence of adequate prophylactic measures. It emerged that female farmers together with experienced farmers mainly own pig farms with better characteristics (breed type, management practices, litter size, etc.). Hence, the involvement of women in pig farming can offer better prospects for the improvement of this sector. In addition, access to agricultural credit can also be an alternative to foster investment in livestock in South Kivu. All this can only lead to better results though improved local market access to smallholder producers. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-07-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202005281301 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 1 (2020) eng Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/77 2016-04-06T08:06:14Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Sawah First! The Cultural Ecology of Alang-Alang in a Rain Forest Margin Community Burkard, Günter Institut for socio-cultural and socio-economic Studies (ISOS), University of Kassel, Steinstr. 19, 37213 Witzenhausen / Germany Array Imperata cylindrica, or alang-alang as it is often referred to in writings on SE-Asia, is one of the most intensively studied weeds of the world. In investigating alang-alang related problems in a small holder community in the vicinity of the Lore Lindu National Park on the island of Sulawesi, Indonesia, this paper challenges some common claims about the origins, attached values and future perspectives of alang-alang. The sources of imperata infusion in the research area are neither linked to population pressure, nor to inadequate cropping techniques in dry land cultivation. Rather, alang-alang expanded as a reaction to the development of the wet rice sector which absorbs most of the time and labour of the farmers.Of ten being forced to abandon their dry land plots in order to manage their wet rice fields, farmers create ideal conditions for the grass to expand.Ho wever, whereas on the one hand alang-alang represents a major element of “criticality”, the alang-alang plot as such offers important opportunities provided by other plants growing naturally in imperata sites.A culturally defined preference for rice subsistence as well as an orientation aimed at securing survival rather than enhancing profitability make an effective control of the weed difficult. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2005-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/77 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 106, No 1 (2005) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/2295 2016-12-14T05:44:45Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "161117 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Crop-Specific EU Aid and Smallholder Food Security in Sierra Leone Saravia-Matus, Silvia L. International Senior Consultant at European Commission – Joint Research Centre in Seville, Santiago, Chile Gomez y Paloma, Sergio European Commission – Joint Research Centre in Seville, Spain Mary, Sebastien Du Paul University, Chicago, U.S.A. Array The article analyses the viability of promoting crop-specific programs as a mean to improve smallholder net farm income and food security. The case study explores the relevance of European Union Stabilisation of Export Earnings (STABEX) funds in supporting Sierra Leone’s agricultural development agenda. By analysing the drivers of food security for a number of targeted smallholders in the two most important agricultural zones of Sierra Leone, it is possible to compare the suitability of crop-specific support (in rice, cocoa and coffee) versus general aid programs (public infrastructure, on and off farm diversification opportunities, sustainable practices, access to productive assets, etc.). The results indicate that crop diversification strategies are widespread and closely related to risk minimisation and enhanced food security among smallholders. Similarly, crop-specific programs mainly focusing on commercialisation tend to overlook important constraints associated to self-consumption and productivity. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-09-20 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2016100451027 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 2 (2016) eng Copyright (c) 2016

oai:jarts.info:article/406 2013-04-16T21:26:09Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "130302 2013 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Influence of education levels on dissemination of soil fertility management information in the central highlands of Kenya Kimaru-Muchai, Serah Wairimu Department of Environmental Studies (Community Development), Kenyatta University, P.O Box 43844, Nairobi, Kenya Mugwe, Jayne Njeri Department of Agricultural Resource Management, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya Mucheru-Muna, Monicah Department of Environmental Science, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya Mairura, Franklin Somoni Tropical Soil Biology and Fertility, P.O box 30677, Nairobi, Kenya Mugendi, Daniel Njiru Department of Environmental Science, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya Array Inadequate links between researchers and farmers has resulted in low uptake of research advances recommended to improve food security in the central highlands of Kenya. Access to timely and accurate information by extension agents and farmers is paramount in dissemination of soil fertility management practices. Hence, the study sought to investigate the effect of education levels on communication channels used to disseminate soil fertility technologies in the Central highlands of Kenya. Questionnaires were used to elicit information from 105 extension agents and 240 farmers. About 50.5% of the extension officers were certificate holders while 29.5% were diploma holders from agricultural institutes. Majority of the farmers had attained primary education (59.6%) while 25.8% and 9.2% had attained secondary and post secondary education, respectively. Research institutions were the most accessible sources of information on soil fertility management practices by extension agents while internet and scientific conferences were the least scored as accessible sources of soil fertility management information by extension agents. Education levels significantly influenced preference of individual approach methods by farmers. There was a significant positive relationship between education and accessibility of internet as a source of information on green manure. The implication of the study was that education levels influenced the mode of communication used in the transfer of soil fertility research outputs to the end users. Consequently, it is extremely important to consider education levels in selection of dissemination pathways used in agriculture. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2013-03-02 21:46:13 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2012092441785 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 113, No 2 (2012) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5838 2026-01-12T14:09:21Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "250916 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Yak mortality in free-range grazing systems: A case study in Laya Block, Bhutan Gyeltshen, Norbu District Veterinary Hospital, Punakha https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0204-974X Norbu, Nima District Livestock Sector, Gasa https://orcid.org/0000-0001-8135-6989 Array Yak farming is economically and culturally vital to highland communities, providing protein-rich products in harsh environments. Despite their resilience, yak mortality presents a serious challenge. This study aims to examine the causes of yak mortality to inform effective management strategies for sustaining this essential species. Data were collected through face-to-face interviews using semi-structured questionnaires via the Epicollect5 mobile application. All 53 herders from Laya Block were interviewed to gather information on mortality causes, herders’ characteristics, and income. Approximately 94.3% of herders reported yak mortality, with an annual mortality rate of 7.9% and a mean loss of 5.3 yaks per household. Yak mortality is primarily caused by wildlife depredation, which accounts for 58.8% of total proportional mortality. On average, each household loses 3.1 yaks annually to wildlife predation, representing a 4.6% mortality rate relative to the total yak population. The second leading cause is Gid (Coenurosis), responsible for 23.7% of deaths, with an average of 1.2 yak losses per household and a 1.9% mortality rate per total population. Other factors such as winter fodder shortages, accidents, harsh winter conditions, and natural causes contribute smaller shares to the overall yak mortality. However, no significant difference in mortality rates was observed between the two leading causes across age groups (P 0.05), indicating equal vulnerability and highlighting the urgent need for intervention strategies to mitigate these challenges and promote the conservation of this vital ruminant species in highland communities. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-08-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025081111369 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 2 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4593 2022-10-04T13:14:29Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "220208 2022 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Technical efficiency of paddy farming in West Java: a combination of synthetic and organic fertilisers versus conventional farming Hendrani, Yanuarita Faculty of Economics Center for Economic Studies Parahyangan Catholic University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2876-0290 Nugraheni, Siwi Faculty of Economics, Center for Economic Studies Parahyangan Catholic University Karliya, Noknik Faculty of Economics Parahyangan Catholic University Array In developing countries, agriculture’s burden is not just ensuring enough food for the people but also securing net income for the farmers to alleviate poverty and to conserve the environment at the same time. Consumption shift towards staples, particularly during economic crisis or pandemic, requires a policy that could make food growers respond to the demand appropriately. Initially, from soil science, an argument asserts that mixing organic and synthetic fertilisers can increase yield/productivity and be safe for the environment. Previous studies showed that, on average organic farming produced lower yield compared to conventional farming using synthetic fertilisers. The objective of this study was to investigate if the farming method using mixed fertilisers could outperform the conventional method. This study used the 2014 household survey data of paddy farmers in West Java, part of a more extensive survey on main agricultural sub-sectors conducted by Statistics Indonesia every ten years. Applying the Stochastic Frontier Analysis and the Generalised Linear Model, this study found that the combination of organic and synthetic fertilisers could yield an efficiency level as high as 9% over the conventional method. The Logit model results also showed that improving efficiency reduced the likelihood of farmer households being in a state of poverty. Therefore, the government should encourage farmers to apply the mixed fertiliser method rather than using only synthetic fertilisers. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2022-01-25 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202201195572 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 123, No 1 (2022) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4593/15680 Copyright (c) 2022 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/3291 2019-11-19T17:17:05Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "190702 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The nutritive value of Dichrostachys cinerea subspecies nyasana pod meal as an alternative feed resource for weaned rabbits and piglets in Southern Africa Mthiyane, Doctor Mziwenkosi Nhlanhla Department of Animal Science, University of Eswatini, Eswatini Current affiliation: Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, North-West University, Mafikeng Campus, North-West Province, South Africa Mdziniso, Sqondile Skhulile Department of Animal Science, University of Eswatini, Eswatini Dlamini, Vusi Nichodima Department of Animal Science, University of Eswatini, Eswatini Array This study investigated the nutritional value of Dichrostachys cinerea subsp. nyassana pod meal (DCNPM), an abundant freely available feed resource derived from an invasive plant in Southern Africa, for weaned rabbits and piglets, and the ameliorative effect of wood ash extract (WAE) against deleterious effects of DCNPM tannins. In a completely randomised design (CRD), 16 weaned rabbits were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments (DCNPM at 0, 5, 10, and 20 %) with 4 replicate animals each, for 6 weeks (Exp. 1). Also, in a 6-week CRD study (Exp. 2), 16 weaned piglets were randomly allocated to 4 dietary treatments (DCNPM at 0 %, 10 %, 20 %−WAE, and 20 %+WAE) each with 4 replicate piglets. Results showed DCNPM had (in g per kg DM) moderate crude protein (CP: 113.1) and ether extract (EE: 16.7) but high crude fibre (CF: 260.6) and ash (70.0) contents; it further contained Ca (1.2), P (0.6), K (15.5), Mg (1.1), Cu (0.05), Fe (0.04), Mn (0.03) and Zn (0.03). For both rabbits and piglets, body weight gain (BWG) and feed conversion efficiency (FCE) were not influenced (p  0.05) by dietary DCNPM supplementation. Similarly, there were no effects of DCNPM on rabbit carcass characteristics (p  0.05). However, DCNPM linearly increased feed intake (FI) in rabbits (p  0.001). In piglets, FI was increased at 10 %, but decreased at 20 %, DCNPM; interestingly WAE treatment reversed the decrease in FI induced by 20 % DCNPM (p  0.001). In conclusion, our results demonstrate DCNPM to have moderate CP but high CF, with reasonable contents of trace minerals. It can be incorporated at 20 % in rabbit diets without further amendment; and at the same level in piglet diets provided it is treated with WAE. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2019-02-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/20190613553 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 120, No 1 (2019) eng Copyright (c) 2019 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/42 2016-04-06T08:34:32Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Local Productive Arrangements for Biodiesel Production in Brazil – Environmental Assessment of Small-holder’s Integrated Oleaginous Crops Management Stachetti Rodrigues, Geraldo Embrapa Labex Europe / UPR 34 Performance des Systèmes de Culture de Plantes Pérennes - CIRAD-PerSyst. Agropolis International, Avenue Agropolis, 34398 Montpellier, France Telephone: +33 (0)631133432; Fax: +33 (0) 467616590; e-mail: stacheti@cnpma.em Aparecida Rodrigues, Izilda Associated Researcher, Embrapa Environment, FAPESP. Cx.P. 069, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil CEP 13820-000 de Almeida Buschinelli, Cláudio Cesar Embrapa Environment. Cx.P. 069, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil CEP 13820-000 Ligo, Marcos Antonio Embrapa Environment. Cx.P. 069, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil CEP 13820-000 Pires, Adriana Moreno Embrapa Environment. Cx.P. 069, Jaguariúna, São Paulo, Brazil CEP 13820-000 Array Sustainability assessments were carried out in small-holders’ farms in four territories where productive arrangements have been organized for production of minor oleaginous crops under the Brazilian biodiesel program. The study aimed at checking local impacts of the biodiesel productive chains at the rural establishment scale, and promoting the environmental performance of the selected farms, henceforth proposed as sustainable management demonstration units. Assessments were carried out with the APOIA-NovoRural system, which integrates 62 objective and quantitative indicators related to five sustainability dimensions: i) Landscape Ecology, ii) Environmental Quality (Atmosphere, Water and Soil), iii) Socio-cultural Values, iv) Economic Values and v) Management and Administration. The main results point out that, in general, the ecological dimensions of sustainability, that is, the Landscape Ecology and Atmosphere, Water, and Soil quality indicators, show adequate field conditions, seemingly not yet negatively affected by increases in chemical inputs and natural resources use predicted as important potential impacts of the agro-energy sector. The Economic Values indicators have been favorably influenced in the studied farms, due to a steadier demand and improved prices for the oleaginous crops. On the other hand, valuable positive consequences expected for favoring farmers’ market insertion, such as improved Socio-cultural Values and Management Administration indicators, are still opportunities to be materialized. The Environmental Management Reports issued to the farmers, based on the presented sustainability assessment procedures, offer valuable documentation and communication means for consolidating the organizational influence of the local productive arrangements studied. These productive arrangements were shown to be determinant for the selection of crop associations and diversification, as well as for the provision of technical assistance and the stabilization of demand - conditions that promote value aggregation and income improvements, favoring small-holders’ insertion in the market. More importantly, these locally organized productive arrangements have been shown to strongly influence the valorization of natural resources and environmental assets, which are fundamental if sustainable rural development is to take place under the emerging agro-energy scenario. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2009-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/42 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 110, No 1 (2009) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1865 2015-11-25T15:46:39Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "150921 2015 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Factors influencing the use of selected inputs in yam production in Nigeria and Ghana Mignouna, Djana Babatima International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria http://www.iita.org Abdoulaye, Tahirou International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria http://www.iita.org Akinola, Adebayo A. International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria http://www.iita.org Alene, Arega International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Lilongwe, Malawi http://www.iita.org Nweke, Felix Michigan State University, USA https://www.msu.edu/ Array In West Africa, yam can be an important crop to reduce poverty and hunger if Research and Development measures identify and properly engage its key production factors for enhanced outputs and better income. Data from 1400 households in Ghana and Nigeria were collected in a multistage random sampling survey (and complementary data from 76 farm family fields) with a structured questionnaire and qualitative interview questions. The results showed that yam is produced mainly with crude inputs/technologies to reduce high dependence on labour, seed production and control of pests and diseases. Yam is produced widely with purchased inputs including seed yam and hired labour; chemical fertiliser, herbicide and pesticides are less often used. Analyses of determinants of use of purchased inputs reveal three serious impediments to expansion in yam production: the increasing scarcity and high cost of hired labour, shortage of suitable land and poor farm roads. As employment opportunities for unskilled labour in urban centres are presently expanding, increased yam production will be hard to achieve without labour-saving inputs for at least some of the production tasks, especially seedbed preparation and weeding, and without improvement in infrastructure. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2015-08-19 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2015061048499 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 116, No 2 (2015) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/188 2013-04-16T21:33:59Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Carbon and nitrogen emissions from stored manure and cropped fields in irrigated mountain oases of Oman Buerkert, Andreas Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Jahn, Henning Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Golombek, Sabine D. Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Rawahi, Mohammed N. Al Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Gebauer, Jens Array Little is known about gaseous carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) emissions from traditional terrace agriculture in irrigated high mountain agroecosystems of the subtropics. In an effort towards filling this knowledge gap measurements of carbon dioxide (CO_2), methane (CH_4), ammonia (NH_3) and dinitrous oxide (N_2O) were taken with a mobile photoacoustic infrared multi-gas monitor on manure-filled PE-fibre storage bags and on flood-irrigated untilled and tilled fields in three mountain oases of the northen Omani Al Jabal al Akhdar mountains. During typical 9-11 day irrigation cycles of March, August and September 2006 soil volumetric moisture contents of fields dominated by fodder wheat, barley, oats and pomegranate ranged from 46-23%. While manure incorporation after application effectively reduced gaseous N losses, prolonged storage of manure in heaps or in PE-fibre bags caused large losses of C and N. Given the large irrigation-related turnover of organic C, sustainable agricultural productivity of oasis agriculture in Oman seems to require the integration of livestock which allows for several applications of manure per year at individual rates of 20 t dry matter ha^1. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2010-09-07 17:57:40 Peer-reviewed Article application/x-pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2010082734354 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 111, No 1 (2010) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/4980 2023-11-02T13:28:12Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "230321 2023 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Exploring inclusiveness of vulnerable and marginalized people in the cassava value chain in the Lake Region, Kenya Omondi, Simon Wanjala Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization Tana, Paul Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Kibos, Kisumu, Kenya Lutomia, Cosmas Research Methods and Biometrics, Seed Systems Group, Nairobi, Kenya Makini, Felister Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Nairobi, Kenya Wasilwa, Lusike Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization, Nairobi, Kenya Array Vulnerable and marginalised groups (VMGs) who comprise widows, orphans, people living with disability and HIV, have not been given sufficient attention in agriculture in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) by policy makers, development partners, research, and extension, yet they comprise nearly one-quarter of all smallholder farmers. This study explored inclusion of VMGs in cassava value chain in the Lake Region of Kenya. Formal survey, focus group discussions (FGD), and key informant interviews (KIIs) were used to collect data from VMGs, common interest groups (CIGs) and stakeholders in the cassava value chain. The results showed that the majority of VMG farmers were women, mainly widows, orphans, people living with HIV, and difficulty in mobility. Compared to CIGs, there were significant differences (P 0.05) in access to value chain support services.  Key barriers reinforcing marginalization were policy, socio economic and technological in nature.   It is argued that affirmative action that aims to reach the marginalised farmers and actors in cassava value chain should entail national and institutional policy frameworks to enhance visibility and involvement of VMGs in technology development and innovation as well as in the design and implementation of projects geared towards improving livelihoods of smallholder farmers. The findings of this study suggest the need for mapping and assessing VMGs for targeted value chain institutional support to access inputs, training, financing and market linkages in order to close gaps in cassava production and marketing.  It is concluded that the cassava value chain in the Lake Region is less inclusive for VMGs. Thus, the study recommends affirmative action and establishment of a platform for VMG farmers to increase their voice in decision making. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2023-02-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202302217527 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 124, No 1 (2023) eng Copyright (c) 2023 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3830 2020-07-08T15:19:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "200327 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Can calcium sprays alleviate jelly seed in mango fruits? Bitange, Naphis Mokaya University of Nairobi Department of Plant Science and Crop Production Chemining'wa, George Ndiema University of Nairobi Department of Plant Science and Crop Production Ambuko, Jane University of Nairobi Department of Plant Science and Crop Production Owino, Willis O. Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology Department of Food Science and Technolgy Array Jelly seed is a major challenge in mango production leading to enormous losses in the value chain. This internal fruit disorder is characterised by disintegration of cells, consistency of jelly and broken cells. Calcium plays an important role in enhancing tissue stability and firmness thus reducing cell disintegration. A two-year field study was conducted in Embu County, Kenya using ‘Van Dyke’ cultivar trees of approximately 10 years old. The objective of the study was to investigate the effect of varied sources of calcium, applied at different rates and timing on jelly seed occurrence and tissue calcium distribution. Calcium  in the form of calcium chloride, calcium nitrate and  easygro®  were applied at 1.0%, 1.5%, 2.0% or 0% (control) at three stages of  fruit development  (fruit set, 30 days after fruit set and 30 days to anticipated physiological maturity). The experiment was set up in a randomised complete block design with a split-split arrangement replicated three times. Fruits were harvested at physiological maturity and ripened at ambient conditions (28±1̊C, 75-80 RH). Data collected included: jelly seed occurrence, calcium distribution (exocarp, mesocarp, endocarp and cotyledon) and fruit weight. Jelly seed occurrence and calcium distribution were determined at ripe stage. All the calcium sources invariably suppressed the occurrence of jelly seed. Calcium chloride (2.0%) applied at fruit set had the lowest average jelly seed score of 1.2 and 2 in seasons I and II respectively. There was a significant negative relationship between fruit weight (r = -0.55, r = -0.52), calcium content in the exocarp (r = -0.56, -0.49), mesocarp (r = -0.52,-0.76), endocarp (r= -0.76, -0.66) and jelly seed incidence occurrence. This suggested that calcium has a role in alleviating jelly seed disorder. Application of calcium at fruit set was more effective in suppressing jelly seed occurrence than later applications. Calcium chloride (2.0%) applied at fruit set was more effective in reducing jelly seed occurrence. There is need to study further on soil based calciumand other calcium formulations on the effects on jelly seed occurrence. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-07-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202002281032 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 1 (2020) eng Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/67 2016-04-06T08:37:21Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effect of Inoculation with Rhizobacteria and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi on Growth and Yield of Capsicum chinense Jacquin Constantino, M. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Gómez-Álvarez, R. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Álvarez-Solís, J. D. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Geissen, V. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Huerta, E. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Barba, E. El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Unidad Villahermosa, Tabasco, Mexico Array We evaluated the effect of two rhizobacteria (Azotobacter chroococcum and Azospirillum brasilense) and a commercial product containing multiple strains of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) and an NPK fertiliser on the growth and yield of habanero chilli (Capsicum chinense Jacquin). All treatments were applied as single or combined inoculants, under nursery and field conditions, in a completely randomised design. The biofertilisers were applied to the roots by coating or dipping, with the inoculants in a solid or liquid support, respectively. At 30 days after inoculation, populations of 2.5×106 to 1.3×106 cfu g soil−1 of A. brasilense and 10.3×105 to 2.6×105 of A. chroococcum were detected in the rhizosphere of the crop. The prevalence of colonisation of plants inoculated with AMF ranged from 35 to 57%, with the greatest values recorded for the treatment involving single biofertilisation by root coating. In the nursery phase, single biofertilisation promoted a higher growth and nutrient content in the crop than combined biofertilisation. However, in the field phase the combined biofertilisation increased the nutrient content of the plant leaves, which was significantly greater than observed in the NPK treatment. The highest yields were recorded for the treatments involving a single inoculation of A. chroococcum and for those with the multi-strain of AMF, with average values of 2.5 and 2.3 kg plant−1 respectively, compared with 1.0 kg plant−1 obtained with the treatment in which NPK fertiliser was applied. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2008-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/67 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 109, No 2 (2008) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/2545 2016-06-10T14:36:12Z jarts:BREV

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "160601 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Thomas Oberthür, Peter Läderach, H. A. Jürgen Pohlan & James H. Cock (2012): Specialty Coffee: Managing Quality Eißner, Helmut Institut für tropische Landwirtschaft Leipzig e.V. Array International Plant Nutrition Institute, Southeast Asia Program (IPNI SEAP), Penang, Malaysia, x +347 pp., 36 tables, 68 figures, hardcover, ISBN 13: 978-983-445-0311 The definition of „specialty coffee“ in its beginning was similar to the wine model and quite simple: “Special geographic microclimates and soils produce coffee with unique flavour profiles”. While in the case of wine, the final product is created completely under responsibility of one single farmer or company, in coffee the situation is much more complex and vulnerable. The food chain begins at the farm, before the coffee cherries come to millers, to intermediaries, to exporters, to roasters and finally to the consumers. Every step in this chain does influence coffee quality. For specialty coffee in its long journey from the tree to the cup, specific parameters and standards for each region, product and actor in the whole process must be analysed and defined. This extraordinary complex task requires an orchestrated collaboration from experts in different scientific fields, achieved successfully by the four editors with 42 contributors. In the foreword, the global issues of coffee production and consumption of the last 40 years are presented and the urgent need for more sustainable crop practices and management options is outlined. The introduction chapter gives a good overview about coffee quality, including the production system, inherent quality factors and taste. The background and concepts for better taste are subject in part one of the book, detailed in four chapters. Examples are given to compare different coffee growing regions, e.g. Ethiopia and Costa Rica. An outstanding chapter is the analysis of climate change in Mesoamerica on coffee. At the first time for this crop, climate and geographic models are combined. Many high risk areas for future coffee growing are identified, but some potential new areas too. In part two, the crop management of specialty coffee is presented in six chapters. All important components are involved, from coffee physiology, breeding, plant nutrition, field management practices, the impact of pests and diseases until the complete post-harvesting coffee processing. Particular emphasis is given to an integrated approach to meet changing climatic conditions and to minimise environmental degradation. The third part of this remarkable book deals with the value chain management in five chapters. Prerequisites of business models that ensure equitable benefits all along the supply chain are outlined in chapter 3.1 and illustrated with case studies in the next chapter. The impact of these business models on coffee producers is analysed in chapter 3.3 with special emphasis to reduce seasonal food insecurity. Recommendations for measuring green coffee quality on farm level are given in chapter 3.4. Finally, chapter 3.5. illustrates how modern information technology can improve management of the supply chain. All single chapters contain an actual bibliography, facilitating deeper insights in specific areas. This book is the first comprehensive roadmap for managing specialty coffee. The exemplary prediction of climate change on coffee growing in Mesoamerica should be adopted to other coffee regions worldwide. For its holistic approach, the book is a “must have” for all one, interested seriously in growing and processing high-quality coffee. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-01-15 00:00:00 Non-refereed Book Review application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2545 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 1 (2016) eng Copyright (c) 2016 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/268 2018-06-20T09:26:23Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "120612 2012 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Soil fertility and nutrient status of traditional Gayo coffee agroforestry systems in the Takengon region, Aceh Province, Indonesia Hanisch, Susan Department of Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystem Research in the Tropics and Subtropics (OPATS) University of Kassel, Faculty 11 Steinstraße 19 D - 37213 Witzenhausen Dara, Zaitun Agricultural Faculty Syiah Kuala University Banda Aceh, Indonesia Brinkmann, Katja Department of Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystem Research in the Tropics and Subtropics (OPATS) University of Kassel, Faculty 11 Steinstr. 19 D - 37213 Witzenhausen Buerkert, Andreas Department of Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystem Research in the Tropics and Subtropics (OPATS) University of Kassel, Faculty 11 Steinstraße 19 D - 37213 Witzenhausen Array Little is known about the traditional coffee cultivation systems in Central Aceh, Indonesia, where coffee production is a major source of income for local Gayo people. Based on field observations and farmer interviews, 14 representative agroforestry coffee plantations of different age classes (60-70 years, 30-40 years, and 20 years) as well as seven adjacent grassland and native forest sites were selected for this study, and soil and coffee leaf samples collected for nutrient analysis. Significant differences in soil and coffee leaf parameters were found between former native forest and Sumatran pine (Pinus merkusii) forest as previous land cover indicating the importance of the land use history for today’s coffee cultivation. Soil pH as well as exchangeable Na and Ca concentrations were significantly lower on coffee plantations compared to grassland and forest sites. Soil C, N, plant available P, exchangeable K, and Mg concentrations showed no consistent differences between land use groups. Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) concentrations of coffee leaves were in the sufficiency range, whereas zinc (Zn) contents were found to be consistently below the sufficiency threshold and significantly lower in coffee plantations of previous pine forest cover compared to those of previous native forest cover. While the results of this study provided insights into the nutrient status of coffee plantations in Central Aceh, the heterogeneity of site conditions, limited sampling size, and scarcity of reliable data about the land use history and initial soil conditions of sampled sites preclude more definitive conclusions about the sustainability of the studied systems. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2012-06-12 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2012011640331 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 112, No 2 (2011) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5624 2025-06-10T08:34:54Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "250324 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Determinants of poverty in the cassava stick sector in the Haut Ogooué province in southeastern Gabon Allogo Abessolo, Ranaud Université des sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM), Gabon/Université de Liège (ULG),Belgique https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7710-5946 Ekanatsaga, Ingrid Lithia Département Agroéconomie, Institut National Supérieur d’Agronomie et Biotechnologies (INSAB)/ Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM), BP : 941 Franceville, Gabon Moupela, Christian Département Agroéconomie, Institut National Supérieur d’Agronomie et Biotechnologies (INSAB)/ Université des Sciences et Techniques de Masuku (USTM), BP : 941 Franceville, Gabon Berti, Fabio Laboratory of Economics and Rural Development, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Passage des Déportés 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium Burny, Philippe Laboratory of Economics and Rural Development, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Passage des Déportés 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium Lebailly, Philippe Laboratory of Economics and Rural Development, Gembloux Agro-Bio Tech, University of Liège, Passage des Déportés 2, 5030 Gembloux, Belgium Array To escape poverty, Gabonese rural populations have moved overwhelmingly to the country's cities. Due to a lack of skills for better jobs, they are mostly engaged in informal activities, particularly in the agri-food sector. This study focuses on the poverty of direct actors in the cassava stick sector (CSS) in the province of Haut Ogooué (HO) in southeastern Gabon. The sample consists of 30 farmers, 157 cassava stick producers, 33 mill managers and 3 cassava paste importers. The socio-demographic, economic and poverty probability index (PPI) characteristics of these individuals were reported. Using a multivariate linear regression model with the PPI score as the dependent variable, the determinants of poverty were sought. The results show that women (90%) dominate this sector, almost a third of whom are heads of household. These actors are relatively old, poorly educated and the majority have less than 15 years of professional experience. Revenues from the activities of the CSS are used only to meet daily needs (76%). With an average PPI score of 51.9, the linked reference table indicates that 33.7% of farmers live below the poverty line. Importers of cassava pastes are less affected (2.2%). Finally, the money earned by most actors is insufficient. According to the model, it is the activity that the person does or does not perform outside this sector that determines whether this actor lives below the poverty line (P0.05). German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025011410821 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 1 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4392 2021-12-31T15:56:33Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "211207 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Mixed method survey of vegetable farming and rural farmers’ livelihood in Enugu State, Nigeria Onyishi, Charity Ngozi Akanu-Ibiam Federal Polytechnic Unwana, Ebonyi State, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1883-0048 Array Studies on the role of agriculture on the improvement of livelihood of farmers have primarily focused on staple crops. Increased awareness on the importance of vegetables in urban and rural areas in Nigeria has led to a rise in demand of vegetables.  In both rural and urban communities, smallholder farmers are responding to this demand by increasing vegetable production and thereby creating economic opportunity for themselves. The purpose of this paper is to assess the role of vegetable farming on rural farmers’ livelihood and the support systems available for rural vegetable farmers in Enugu state, Nigeria. This study adopted a mixed-methods design. Quantitative data collection involved the use of questionnaires (n=1118) and qualitative data collection methods comprised in-depth interviews and focus group discussions (n=33).  The study revealed that even with limited institutional support, vegetable farming has led to an improvement of rural farmers’ livelihood. The findings indicated that through vegetable farming, rural farmers increased on-farm income and were able to establish other businesses. Also, vegetable farming increased food security of farmers’ households. The study also revealed that community based organisations (CBOs) are the major source of credit for the rural farmers and there is preponderance of farmer to farmer transfer of seeds, technology and information. Therefore, agricultural interventions should also be targeted towards strengthening the vegetable sector. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-08-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202112035147 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 2 (2021) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4392/15402 Copyright (c) 2021 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3211 2019-01-16T09:29:19Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "180821 2018 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Motivations to consume agroecological food: An analysis of farmers’ markets in Quito, Ecuador Vasco, Cristian Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Central del Ecuador Sánchez, Carolina Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Central del Ecuador Limaico, Karina Facultad de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad Central del Ecuador Abril, Víctor Hugo Universidad de las Fuerzas Armadas-ESPE, Sangolquí Array This paper examines the motivations to consume agroecological foods in Quito, Ecuador. Using data from a survey (n = 254) conducted among the customers of farmers’ markets, the results reveal that agroecological consumers are substantially different from the rest of the population in terms of education, income and life style. The perceived healthiness of agroecological food is by far the main motivation to buy at farmers’ markets, with environmental concern as the least important motivation. In terms of who spends the most on agroecological produce, the results of a multilevel regression model indicate that these are single, educated, wealthy individuals who exercise regularly and are part of a social/environmental organisation. These results reflect that agroecological produce is mainly consumed by a segment of wealthy and educated individuals who are not really concerned of the positive effects for the environment that agroecological production involves, so that, additional efforts are needed to make agroecological food accessible to the general population. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2018-08-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2018040955214 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 119, No 2 (2018) eng Copyright (c) 2018 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/33 2016-04-04T15:26:35Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The Thermal Conductivity: An Alternative Method for the Measurement of Soil Compaction Zuñiga, Orlando Laboratorio de Física Ambiental, Universidad del Valle, A.A. 25 360, Santiago de Cali, Colombia ozuniga@cali.univalle.edu.co Reyes, A. Rheinische Friedrich-Wilhelms-Universität Bonn, Institut für Obst- und Gemüsebau, Auf dem Hügel 6, D-53121 Bonn, Germany Pohlan, Jürgen ECOSUR, El Colegio de la Frontera Sur, Apdo. Postal 36, CP 30700 Tapachula, Chiapas - Mexico Array Four treatments of tillage were compared by measuring soil thermal conductivity. Bulk density and difference between treatments pointed to the discriminatory capacity of the method. The soil thermal conductivity measure or Electrothermal Method (EM) has demonstrated to be a new and reliable indicator for the compaction state of soil. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2003-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/33 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 104, No 2 (2003) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1885 2015-06-02T15:46:27Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "150602 2015 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effect of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) extract on weight, hematology and cell-mediated immune response of newborn goat kids Shokrollahi, Borhan Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Kurdistan, Iran Amini, Fardin Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Kurdistan, Iran Fakour, Shahin Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Kurdistan, Iran Amiri Andi, Mohammad Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Sanandaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sanandaj, Kurdistan, Iran Array This study aimed at evaluating the effects of different levels of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) extract on growth rate, hematology and cell-mediated immune response in Markhoz newborn goat kids. Twenty four goat kids (aged 7 +/- 3 days) were randomly allotted to four groups with six replicates. The groups included: control, T1, T2 and T3 groups which received supplemented-milk with 0, 100, 200 and 400mg aqueous rosemary extract per kg of live body weight per day for 42 days. Body weights of kids were measured weekly until the end of the experiment. On day 42, 10 ml blood samples were collected from each kid through the jugular vein. Cell-mediated immune response was assessed through the double skin thickness after intradermal injection of phyto-hematoglutinin (PHA) at day 21 and 42. No significant differences were seen in initial body weight, average daily gain (ADG) and total gain. However, significant differences in globulin (P 0.05), and white blood cells (WBC) (P 0.001) were observed. There were no significant differences in haemoglobin (Hb), packed cell volume (PCV), red blood cells (RBC), lymphocytes and neutrophils between the treatments. Skin thickness in response to intra dermal injection of PHA significantly increased in the treated groups as compared to the control group at day 42 (P 0.01) with the T3 group showing the highest response to PHA injection. In conclusion, the results indicated that aqueous rosemary extract supplemented-milk had a positive effect on immunity and skin thickness of newborn goat kids. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2015-05-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2015031947751 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 116, No 1 (2015) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/128 2016-04-06T10:37:05Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Identification of Factors that Influence Technical Efficiency of Food Crop Production in West Africa: Empirical Evidence from Borno State, Nigeria Amaza, P. S. International Institute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Ibadan, Nigeria, c/o L.W Lambourn & Co., Carolyn House, 26 Dingwall Road, Croydon CR93EE England, Email: p.amaza@cgiar.org Bila, Y. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria Iheanacho, A. C. Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria Array The objective of this study was to examine the determinants of food crop production and technical efficiency in the guinea savannas of Borno State, Nigeria. A stochastic frontier production function, using the maximum likelihood estimation (MLE) technique was applied in the analysis of data collected from 1086 sample farmers in 2004. The MLE results reveal that farm size; fertilizer and hired labour are the major factors that are associated with changes in the output of food crops. The effect of land area on output is positive and the coefficient found to be significant (p = 0.01). Fertilizer and hired labour have positive effects on output and their coefficients are significant (p = 0.01). Mean farmers’ technical efficiency index was found to be 0.68. Farmer-specific efficiency factors, which comprise age, education, credit, extension and crop diversification, were found to be the significant factors that account for the observed variation in efficiency among the farmers. The implication of the study is that technical efficiency in food crop production could be increased by 32 percent through better use of available resources, given the current state of technology. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2006-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/128 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 107, No 2 (2006) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5410 2025-03-26T14:30:34Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "240225 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effect of different diets containing varying inclusion levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth, mineral composition and meat quality of the edible land snails Archachatina marginata and Achatina fulica Amobi, Maduabuchi Inwele Federal University of Kashere, Gombe, Gombe State Anazodo, Amara Chibuzo Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria Ezewudo, Bede Izuchukwu Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, Nigeria https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1149-5788 Okpoko, Valentine Obinna Admiralty University of Nigeria, Ibusa, Delta State, Nigeria Array This study examined the effect of different dietary inclusion levels of Moringa oleifera leaf meal on growth, haemolymph mineral composition and meat quality of Archachatina marginata and Achatina fulica. A total of one hundred and forty four (144) juvenile snails of A. marginata= 72 and A. fulica= 72, were used for the study. Eighteen (18) snails of each species were subjected to four dietary treatments (0 %, 10 %, 15 % and 20 %) of M. oleifera leaf meal in three replicates of six (6) snails per replicate over a period of 16 weeks. Growth was measured using growth indices while haemolymph mineral composition and meat quality were determined spectrometrically and by proximate method. A. marginata and A. fulica fed diets containing 20% M. oleifera leaf meal showed the best growth performance compared to the other treatments with increase in mean weight gain of 132.14 % and 62.95 %, mean shell length gain of 51.87 % and 59.47 %, mean shell circumference gain of 22.81 % and 47.53 % and mean shell thickness gain of 2.18% and 83.43 %, respectively, as compared to the control diet. The haemolymph mineral composition results of the two species showed that magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, phosphorus and chlorine were highest in snails fed diet with 20% M. oleifera leaf meal. However, copper and sodium were recorded highest in A. marginata fed with control diet. The results of the proximate meat analysis showed that the highest crude protein contents were recorded in A. marginata and A. fulica fed with 20 % M. oleifera leaf meal, with an increase in crude protein content of 80.42 % and 114.28 %, compared to the control diet. Based on the results of this study, the inclusion of Moringa oleifera leaf meal in the snail diet up to 20 % is recommended for optimum productivity of the two snail species. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-02-23 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202402239636 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 1 (2024) eng Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3776 2020-12-28T07:40:01Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "201029 2020 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Drivers of farmers market participation in southeast Nigeria Opata, Patience Ifeyinwa Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6829-6125 Ezeibe, Adaku Bridget Center for Entrepreneurship and Development Research, University of Nigeria, Nsukka Arua, Rosemary Nnedinso Department of Agricultural Economics, University of Nigeria, Nsukka. Array The objective of this paper was to investigate the drivers of farmers’ participation in the output market for yellow pepper using a sample of 420 randomly selected producers from 8,500 farmers in selected markets in southeast Nigeria. The heterogeneity of smallholder market participation was modelled with quantile regression. The variables that affected all the quantiles (i.e. for subsistence, semi-subsistence, intermediate, semi-commercial and commercially oriented farms) are the distance to the trading centre and the level of poultry manure applied. The estimated coefficients of poultry manure were statistically significant and directly related to commercialisation of pepper, while the distance to market was negatively correlated. The estimated coefficients for land size, age of household head, fertiliser and agrochemicals use, were positive and significant while income from other sources and asphalt road were negative and significant. It could be deduced from the results that specialisation and commercialisation in yellow pepper production in southeast Nigeria triggers the production of other commercial crops (i.e. cassava, maize, tomatoes, and garden eggs, groundnut, okra, fluted pumpkin, amaranth, and sweet potatoes). The findings showed that volume of pepper sold and total farm production and consumption were indicators for household food security and income. These suggest that smallholder market participation in West Africa could be driven by policies aimed at improving the commercial crops that are highly marketable, rural road infrastructure, market information systems, asset accumulation, human capital and promotion of farmer organisations. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2020-12-24 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202010191969 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 121, No 2 (2020) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/3776/13657 Copyright (c) 2020 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/2653 2018-06-15T12:22:51Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "170323 2017 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc The determinants of the performance of dairy smallholders in Malawi Baur, Ivo Agroscope; Institute for Sustainability Sciences, Tänikon, Switzerland (ivo.baur@agroscope.admin.ch) / Ostrom Workshop, Indiana University Bloomington, USA Gazzarin, Christian Agroscope; Institute for Sustainability Sciences, Tänikon, Switzerland Banda, McLoyd Department of Agricultural Research Services, Mbawa Research Station, P.O. Box 8, Embangweni, Mzimba, Malawi Lips, Markus Agroscope; Institute for Sustainability Sciences, Tänikon, Switzerland Array Milk production in Malawi is stagnating although neighbouring countries steadily increase outputs. In this paper, we explored the determinants of the performance of dairy smallholders. As indicators of on-farm performance we used annual milk yield, calving intervals, and annual dairy income. Regression models revealed that milk yield was negatively related with farmer’s age, female farmer, and household size, but positively influenced by farmers’ experience. Calving intervals were strongly associated with labour costs and breeding method. Income from dairying was only associated with farmers’ education but varied strongly with region. Regional effects existed for all performance indicators which may partly be rooted in land scarcity in the south and the efforts of development agencies to promote dairying in the northern and central regions. Results also revealed a tendency for pure breeds to produce higher outputs, but crossbreeds due to lower costs provided better income. Thus, we recommend that experienced farmers become involved in extension programs to provide comprehensive services that help farmers make more efficient use of their scarce assets, and thus realise more of the animals’ genetic potential with regard to the three observed performance indicators. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2017-01-13 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2017010351844 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 118, No 1 (2017) eng Copyright (c) 2017 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/524 2013-08-10T17:32:15Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "130809 2013 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Agroforestry systems of timber species and cacao: survival and growth during the early stages Jaimez, Ramón E. Laboratorio Ecofisiología de cultivos. Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Venezuela Araque, Osmary Laboratorio Ecofisiología de cultivos. Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Escuela de Ingeniería Forestal. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Venezuela Guzman, Danni Escuela de Ingeniería Forestal. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Venezuela Mora, Argenis Instituto de Desarrollo Forestal. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Venezuela Espinoza, Wilmer Laboratorio Ecofisiología de cultivos. Instituto de Investigaciones Agropecuarias. Facultad de Ciencias Forestales y Ambientales. Universidad de Los Andes. Mérida Venezuela Tezara, Wilmer Instituto de Biología Experimental. Universidad Central de Venezuela. Caracas Venezuela. email: Array In recent times, increased emphasis has been placed on diversifying the types of trees to shade cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) and to achieve additional services. Agroforestry systems that include profitable and native timber trees are a viable alternative but it is necessary to understand the growth characteristics of these species under different environmental conditions. Thus, timber tree species selection should be based on plant responses to biotic and abiotic factors. The aims of this study were (1) to evaluate growth rates and leaf area indices of the four commercial timber species: Cordia thaisiana, Cedrela odorata, Swietenia macrophylla and Tabebuia rosea in conjunction with incidence of insect attacks and (2) to compare growth rates of four Venezuelan Criollo cacao cultivars planted under the shade of these four timber species during the first 36 months after establishment. Parameters monitored in timber trees were: survival rates, growth rates expressed as height and diameter at breast height and leaf area index. In the four Cacao cultivars: height and basal diameter. C. thaisiana and C. odorata had the fastest growth and the highest survival rates. Growth rates of timber trees will depend on their susceptibility to insect attacks as well as to total leaf area. All cacao cultivars showed higher growth rates under the shade of C. odorata. Growth rates of timber trees and cacao cultivars suggest that combinations of cacao and timber trees are a feasible agroforestry strategy in Venezuela. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2013-08-09 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2012112642171 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 114, No 1 (2013) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/6185 2026-03-26T14:34:30Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "260120 2026 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Black seeds, hidden diversity: Phenotypic structure in an urban landrace of amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) in Niger Naino Jika, Abdel Kader University Abdou Moumouni, Niamey, Niger https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4579-9330 Alhousseini Moussa, Leyla Banoufe, Aminou Array Neglected crops often harbour cryptic diversity maintained through informal seed systems, particularly in urban gardens of the Sahel. This study investigates phenotypic variation within a black-seeded Amaranthus spp. population cultivated in Niamey, Niger, where seed colour guides local selection practices despite limited scientific documentation. A total of 180 plants were evaluated at the vegetative stage for plant height and number of leaves under a randomised complete block design, with three replicates of 60 plants each. Descriptive statistics revealed considerable intra-population variability (CV = 39.4% for height; 27.2% for leaf number). Robust Principal Component Analysis (rPCA) captured 93.5% of total variance along a single axis reflecting strong trait correlation. Unsupervised clustering identified a dominant phenotypic core with peripheral structuring but no extreme outliers. This exploratory study documents the extent and internal organisation of phenotypic variation in a black-seeded landrace cultivated in Niger’s urban gardens, highlighting the contribution of farmer-maintained populations to the conservation of agrobiodiversity in underutilised crops. Conducted over a single growing season, this work provides a quantitative description of morphological variation within a Nigerien black-seeded amaranth landrace and establishes a baseline for future multi-environment or molecular studies. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2026-01-15 14:28:20 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2026011411801 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 127 (2026) eng Copyright (c) 2026 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4676 2023-02-21T20:51:31Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "221205 2022 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Malaria and pneumonia effects on rice, vanilla production and rural household income in Madagascar: case of the Sava region Razakamanana, Marilys Victoire Université Catholique de Madagascar, Centre de Recherche pour le Développement https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6300-1006 Audibert, Martine Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS-CERDI-IRD, FERDI, F-63000 Clermont-Ferrand, France Andrianantoandro, Voahirana Tantely Université Catholique de Madagascar Array In Madagascar, malaria remains the leading cause of consultation and deaths at hospital at all ages and pneumonia is one of the main causes of the under-five mortality and account for 45% of children hospitalizations. The number of these cases and deaths has not decreased during the last ten years. This paper aims to determine the effects of malaria and pneumonia cases on rice and vanilla production and income. We used data from a cross-sectional survey conducted in 2016  by the authors on 975 rural households and 3,586 individuals of the SAVA region in the northeast of Madagascar. After checking the presence of endogeneity, ordinary least-square method was used instead of two-stage least squares. Our results showed that malaria has no effect on production, and therefore does not affect income. Pneumonia had an effect on production of rice and vanilla. Moreover, the cost of malaria and pneumonia healthcare burdened by households affect their consumption by reducing expenditure on housing. There are many campaigns for the fight against malaria in Madagascar, but pneumonia prevention measures are very rare. Therefore, pneumonia should be considered in the same way as malaria due to its effects on production and investment to fight against these two diseases must be strengthened in order to decrease the costs for the households. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2022-12-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202210116966 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 123, No 2 (2022) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4676/16536 Copyright (c) 2022 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3644 2020-01-13T13:30:22Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "191205 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Quality of black bean seeds harvested with different moisture contents and submitted to two different storage systems Scariot, Maurício Albertoni Departamento de Fitossanidade, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2015-3103 Toni, Josiel Ricardo Departamento de Fitossanidade, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Forte, César Tiago Departamento de Fitotecnia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria - UFSM Galon, Leandro Curso de Agronomia, Universidade Federal da Fronteira Sul, câmpus Erechim-RS Dionello, Rafael Gomes Departamento de Fitossanidade, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Radünz, Lauri Lourenço Departamento de Fitossanidade, Faculdade de Agronomia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul Array Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is one of the main foods of the Brazilian diet. However, to achieve high yields, one of the determining factors is seed quality, which can be influenced by harvesting time and storage. The objective of this work was to evaluate the physical quality and physiological performance of black bean seeds as function of the moisture content at harvest and storage method. For that, black bean seeds, cultivar BRS Campeiro, were used. The harvest was performed when the seeds reached moisture contents of 26.2; 16.6 and 13.5%. The storage was carried out in hermetic (PET bottles) and conventional (paper bags) systems for 240 days. There was a reduction in the physical quality and the physiological performance of the bean seeds according to the storage time and the harvest delay. However, the seeds stored in a sealed system showed less reduction in physical quality and physiological performance over time, regardless of the harvest moisture content. The harvest of black bean seeds, cultivar BRS Campeiro, with moisture contents between 16.6 and 26.2% and stored in hermetic system present better physical quality and physiological performance. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2019-12-02 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/20191127815 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 120, No 2 (2019) eng Copyright (c) 2019 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/58 2016-04-06T08:03:24Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Utilisation of Mucuna Beans (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC ssp. deeringianum (Bart) Hanelt) to Feed Growing Broilers Trejo, L. W. Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia-Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimna, C.P. 97000, Mérida, Yucatán México, Fax: (99) 42-32-05, Email: wtlizama@tunku.uady.mx Santos, R. Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia-Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimna, C.P. 97000, Mérida, Yucatán México Hau, E. Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia-Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimna, C.P. 97000, Mérida, Yucatán México Olivera, L. Centro de Investigaciones y Estudios Avanzados del Instituto Politécnico Nacional Anderson, S. Imperial College at Wye-University of London, UK Belmar, R. Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia-Universidad Autónoma de Yucatán, Apartado Postal 4-116 Itzimna, C.P. 97000, Mérida, Yucatán México Array Performance of broilers fed on diets containing mucuna beans (MB) (Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC ssp. deeringianum (Bart) Hanelt) with different treatments were studied in three experiments. First experiment: three sorghum diets using 0 and 280g/kg of MB raw or soaked were evaluated. Second experiment: three sorghum diets using 0 and 280g/kg of MB raw or boiled were evaluated. Third experiment: six maize diets: maize only, three diets containing 280g/kg of MB raw, soaked or boiled, one containing soybean and a balanced diet (control) were evaluated. Experiment one: the birds fed on the 0g MB/kg showed a higher live weight gain (LWG) and a lower feed:gain ratio (FG) (p 0.01) than birds fed on the MB diets. There were no differences for any of the variables studied between the birds fed on the MB diets. Experiment two: the birds fed on the 0g MB/kg performed better (p 0.01) than birds fed on the MB diets. However, birds fed on the boiled MB diet had a higher LWG and a lower FG (p 0.01) than birds fed on the raw and soaked MB diet. Experiment three: the birds fed on the control diet obtained a higher LWG (p 0.01) than birds fed on the remainder treatments. The birds fed on the raw MB diet had a lower FG (p 0.01) than birds on the remainder treatments. However, birds fed on the boiled MB had a higher LWG and feed intake than birds fed on raw and soaked MB diets and only maize diet (p 0.01), but, lower (p 0.01) in comparison to birds fed on the soybean diet. The birds on the raw and soaked MB diets performed worst (p 0.01), even in comparison to birds fed on only maize (p 0.01). The results from these experiments indicated that inclusion of 280g MB/kg in the diet affected adversely the poultry performance. However, utilisation of MB boiled improved the broilers performance compared to birds fed on the raw and soaked MB diets. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2004-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/58 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 105, No 2 (2004) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/2324 2016-06-10T14:36:12Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "160310 2016 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Optimising contributions of goat farming to household economic success and food security in three production systems in Ethiopia Woldu, Tatek University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics (Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute), Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Stuttgart, Germany / Jimma University College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, Jimma, Ethiopia Markemann, André University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics (Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute), Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Stuttgart, Germany Reiber, Christoph University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics (Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute), Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Stuttgart, Germany Muth, Philipp C. University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics (Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute), Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Stuttgart, Germany Valle Zárate, Anne University of Hohenheim, Institute of Agricultural Sciences in the Tropics (Hans-Ruthenberg-Institute), Department of Animal Breeding and Husbandry in the Tropics and Subtropics, Stuttgart, Germany Array The study aims to analyse factors affecting contributions of goat farming to household economic success and food security in three goat production systems of Ethiopia. A study was conducted in three districts of Ethiopia representing arid agro-pastoral (AAP), semi-arid agro-pastoral (SAAP) and highland mixed crop-livestock (HMCL) systems involving 180 goat keeping households. Gross margin (GM) and net benefit (NB1 and NB2) were used as indicators of economic success of goat keeping. NB1 includes in-kind benefits of goats (consumption and manure), while NB2 additionally constitutes intangible benefits (insurance and finance). Household dietary diversity score (HDDS) was used as a proxy indicator of food security. GM was significantly affected by an off-take rate and flock size interaction (P0.001). The increment of GM due to increased off-take rate was more prominent for farmers with bigger flocks. Interaction between flock size and production system significantly (P0.001) affected both NB1 and NB2. The increment of NB1 and NB2 by keeping larger flocks was higher in AAP system, due to higher in-kind and intangible benefits of goats in this system. Effect of goat flock size as a predictor of household dietary diversity was not significant (P0.05). Nevertheless, a significant positive correlation (P0.05) was observed between GM from goats and HDDS in AAP system, indicating the indirect role of goat production for food security. The study indicated that extent of utilising tangible and intangible benefits of goats varied among production systems and these differences should be given adequate attention in designing genetic improvement programs. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2016-01-15 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2016011149582 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 117, No 1 (2016) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/205 2013-04-16T21:31:51Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "120113 2012 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Nitrogen in combination with Desmodium intortum effectively suppress Striga asiatica in a sorghum‒Desmodium intercropping system Reinhardt, Carl Frederick Department of Plant Production and Soil Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa Tesfamichael, Niguse Department of Plant Production and Soil Science, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0002, South Africa Array It is well known that the parasitic weed Striga asiatica (L.) Kuntze can be suppressed by Striga-tolerant sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) cultivars, Desmodium intortum (Mill.) Urb. (greanleaf desmodium), and by fertilization with nitrogen. The study objective was the assessment of Striga control provided by integration of Desmodium density, timing of sorghum-Desmodium intercrop establishment, and nitrogen fertilization. Growth responses and yield of three sorghum cultivars were measured in three pot experiments. A soil naturally infested with Striga was used, and that part of the soil which served as uninfested control was chemically sterilised. Striga numbers and growth were affected significantly by sorghum cultivars, sorghum-Desmodium intercrop ratios, timing of the sorghum-Desmodium association, as well as by their interactions. Desmodium caused 100% suppression of Striga emergence when Desmodium was established in the 1:3 sorghum-Desmodium ratio at seeding of sorghum. Total control of Striga was also achieved with the 1:1 sorghum-Desmodium ratio when Desmodium was transplanted 30 days before sorghum seeding. However, these two treatments also caused significant reductions in sorghum yield. In contrast, 100% Striga control and a dramatic increase in sorghum yield were achieved with 100 kg N ha^{-1} in the 1:1 sorghum-Desmodium intercrop. Compatibility of sorghum and Desmodium was evident at the 1:1 sorghum-Desmodium intercrop established at sorghum seeding. Overall, the Ethiopian cultivars Meko and Abshir showed better agronomic performance and higher tolerance to Striga than the South African cultivar PAN 8564. It is recommended that the N × Desmodium × sorghum interaction be investigated under field conditions. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2012-01-13 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2011101139331 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 112, No 1 (2011) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5770 2025-01-15T11:38:46Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "241218 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Market participation and profitability of small scale garri processing in Edo, Ogun and Oyo States, Nigeria Saka, Jelili Olaide INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Obatolu, Veronica Adeoti INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Lawal, Bosede Olukemi INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Idowu, Ayodeji Babatunde INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Amadi, Chukwudi Peter INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Adetumbi, Johnson Adedayo INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Dauda, Taofik Oyedele INSTITUTE OF AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH AND TRAINING, MOOR PLANTATION, IBADAN, NIGERIA Array Nigeria is the largest producer of cassava which is a staple food crop consumed in different forms. garri is one of the products commonly consumed by households. Improving the production process for greater gains has been at the fore front of discourse on potential for growth of the garri industry. Studies have not adequately explored variations in processing techniques across major producing and consuming communities for evaluation of the associated commercial potentials. This study examines market participation, cost structure and profitability of garri processing in major producing communities of Nigeria. Data were collected through survey of 300 processors selected by multi-stage sampling technique in Edo, Ogun and Oyo states of Nigeria. The results show that garri processing varies in length of processing period, quantity of cassava processed, garri yield and cost efficiency across the states.  Processing was characterised by high market participation across the states while the cost structure shows that the bulk of the cost of garri processing was incurred on procurement of fresh tubers.  A greater proportion of the labour cost was incurred on peeling (20.4%), washing (11.9%) and frying (31.1%). Garrification rates were higher in Ogun (26.54%, 20.25%) and Oyo (24.09%, 15.57%) than in Edo state (23.44%, 14.15%) in the dry and wet seasons respectively, with the latter having a shorter processing period. Cost per kilogram of garri produced was lowest in Edo state during the dry season but highest during the rainy season. However, garri processing was generally profitable, with significant differences in gross margin percentage (GM %) across states only in the rainy season. The highest GM% was recorded by processors in Ogun state (47.14%) followed by Edo (18.92%) and Oyo (17.37%) states. Market participation and profitability indicated potential for increased investment in cost- and labour-saving technologies to improve productivity in the garri processing industry. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-09-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2024121610771 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 2 (2024) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/5770/18984 Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4325 2021-12-31T15:56:33Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "211005 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Determinants of households’ membership in agricultural cooperatives in Bhutan Dendup, Tashi Royal University of Bhutan Aditto, Satit Khon Kaen University https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9794-4993 Array The Royal Government of Bhutan has been promoting agricultural cooperatives (ACs) in the country; however, the number of people joining ACs is small. This study was conducted to identify the factors influencing households' decision to join ACs in Central Bhutan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted to collect data from 384 households (192 AC members and 192 non-AC members). Trained enumerators collected data in June and July 2018 using structured questionnaires. The binary logistic regression showed that households with older heads of household, being literate, having more family labour, more land under cultivation, owning farm machinery, being further away from a market, and having access to credit increased the likelihood of households joining ACs. Conversely, households earning off-farm income and locating far from the Renewable Natural Resources Centres decreased the likelihood of becoming member of ACs. Additionally, the gender of the head of a household and the number of cattle owned by a household showed no significant influence. As this paper is the first to empirically investigate the determinants of households’ membership in ACs in Bhutan, the findings have some important policy implications. The government should continue to provide in-depth awareness to farmers on concepts and benefits of ACs in retaining existing members and recruiting new members. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-08-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202107134321 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 2 (2021) eng Copyright (c) 2021 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/3028 2018-07-02T09:22:06Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "180404 2018 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Applying phosphorus indices at a small agricultural watershed in Southern Brazil Waltrick, Josiane C. N. Department of Education of Paraná State, Av. Água Verde, 2140, Vila Izabel, CEP 80240-900, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Goularte, Gabriel D. Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Favaretto, Nerilde Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Souza, Luiz C. P. Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Dieckow, Jeferson Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Pauletti, Volnei Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Vezzani, Fabiane M. Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineering, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Almeida, Luciano Department of Agricultural Economics and Extension, Federal University of Paraná, Rua dos Funcionários 1540, CEP 80035-050, Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil Minella, Jean P. G. Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Santa Maria, Av. Camobi, 1000, CEP 97105-900, Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil Array Best management practices at watershed scale are essential to mitigate water pollution. The objectives of this study were: (1) to estimate the P-index in a small watershed with intensive agricultural use applying five P-index versions at three scales (watershed, sub-basin and agricultural field); (2) to assess the effect of the connectivity factors (distance between the agricultural field and the stream and width of riparian native vegetation) in estimating the risk of P loss. The five P-index versions resulted in a similar risk of P loss, 75 to 83 % of the whole watershed scale (agricultural plus forest areas) was classified as low or very low risk for P loss. At the agricultural area scale, 79 to 100 % of this area was classed as high and very high risk for P loss. The low risk of P loss at watershed scale is explained by the high occurrence of forest vegetation. The reduced distance between agricultural land and streams and/or the reduced width of riparian native vegetation increased the risk of P loss. Estimated P-index values at a sub-basin scale indicated lower risk of P loss compared to agricultural field scale. In order to better estimate the risk of P loss at an agricultural field scale, we advise using a P-index which considers also connectivity factors. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2018-04-04 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2018010454110 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 119, No 1 (2018) eng Copyright (c) 2018 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/24 2016-04-04T15:26:14Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Effects of Compound Fertilization on Growth and Alkaloids of Datura (Datura innoxia Mill.) Plants AL-Humaid, A. I. College of Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine, King Saud University, Al-Qassim Branch, Saudi Arabia Array The effect of 0, 100, 200, 400, 600 and 800 kg ha−1 of Sangral, a complex chemical fertilizer at rates, on growth, alkaloid content, drug yield and nutrient uptake of datura (Datura innoxia Mill.) plants was studied during two successive seasons. The plant height, the number of branches and leaves/plant, the fresh and the dry weights increased with increasing fertilizer rates up to 800 kg ha−1; however, the maximum increase was recorded at 600 kg ha−1. Total alkaloid and drug (hyoscyamine + scopolamine) contents also increased with increasing the fertilization level to a peak value of 600 kg ha−1. It then, decreased at 800 kg ha−1 level. Plant leaves and fruits were the most valuable organs for alkaloid and drug accumulation followed by stems, roots and crowns, respectively. N, P and K in the leaves were linearly increased by increasing fertilizer level. It seems that compound fertilizers increase the availability of essential nutrient elements necessary for datura growth and metabolism, causing vigorous vegetation and high chemical production. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2003-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/24 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 104, No 2 (2003) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1737 2014-12-31T17:26:12Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "141231 2014 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Smallholder farmers’ access to credit in the Amathole District Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa Baiyegunhi, Lloyd James Segun University of KwaZulu-Natal Fraser, Gavin C. G. Rhodes University Array Provision of credit has being identified as an important instrument for improving the welfare of smallholder farmers directly and for enhancing productive capacity through financing investment by the farmers in their human and physical capital. This study investigated the individual and household characteristics that influence credit market access in Amathole District Municipality, Eastern Cape Province, South Africa, using a cross sectional data from smallholder farmers’ household survey. The aim is to provide a better understanding of the households’ level socio-economic characteristics, not only because they influence household’s demand for credit but also due to the fact that potential lenders are most likely to base their assessment of borrowers’ creditworthiness on such characteristics. The results of the logistic regression suggest that credit market access was significantly influenced by variables such as gender, education, households’ income, value of assets, savings, dependency ratio, repayment capacity and social capital. Implications for rural credit delivery are discussed. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2014-12-31 18:26:14 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2014121946870 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 115, No 2 (2014) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/115 2016-04-06T10:29:43Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Phosphorus Response and Amino Acid Composition of Different Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) Genotypes from Myanmar Kywe, M. Dept. of Agronomy, Yezin Agricultural University, Yezin, 05282, Myanmar Finckh, M. R. Ecological Plant Protection, University of Kassel, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany Buerkert, A. Organic Plant Production and Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, D-37213 Witzenhausen, Germany, email: buerkert@unikassel.de Array Mungbean or green gram (Vigna radiata L.) is an important component of rice-based cropping systems in Myanmar, where grain yields of around 800 kg ha^(-1) are much below its yield potential of 3000 kg ha^(-1). The reasons for this shortfall are as under-investigated as is the genotype-specific response of this crop to phosphorus (P) application, which is critically low in many Myanmar soils, and the genetic variation in grain quality. For green gram quality, the concentration of lysine, an essential amino acid is particularly important given its scarcity in many cereal-based diets of Southeast Asia. The purpose of this study therefore was to investigate the effects of P application on the root and shoot growth, yield and its components for a range of green gram varieties, and to analyse the protein concentration and amino acid composition in green gram seed of different origins. To this end from 2001 to 2003, field experiments were conducted under rain-fed conditions in Yezin and Nyaung Oo. Fifteen landraces and five introduced green gram cultivars were grown at two levels of P (0 and 15 kg ha^(-1)). There were large genotypic differences in P effects and a significant interaction between green gram genotypes and P for shoot and root growth. An unexpected benefit of P application was a reduction of pest and plant virus infestation in the field. Significant genotypic differences in the amino acid profile of seeds were also observed. The results indicate the potential for breeding efforts to increase seed yield and protein quality in green gram. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2007-11-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/115 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 108, No 2 (2007) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/6075 2026-01-12T14:09:21Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "251027 2025 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Strengthening rice crop insurance for sustainable rural development: Addressing farmers' needs and policy challenges Tsurayya, Silmi National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Pasaribu, Sahat Marulitua National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Kusumaningrum, Dian Prasetiya Mulya University Shofiyati, Rizatus National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Anisa, Rahma IPB University Sutomo, Valantino Agus Prasetiya Mulya University Novita, Laurencia Prasetiya Mulya University Anugrah, Iwan Setiajie National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Laili, Nur National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) Array Effective risk management is essential for ensuring agricultural sustainability and rural economic stability, particularly for smallholder farmers who are vulnerable to climate risks. To address these challenges, the Indonesian government launched the Asuransi Usaha Tani Padi (AUTP) scheme, which provides financial protection for rice farmers. However, its effectiveness is undermined by low farmer participation, inefficient claims processing and policy constraints. This study uses a SWOT-TOWS framework and AHP to evaluate the factors that influence AUTP's performance. It identifies farmers' needs, policy support, budget feasibility and human resource availability as critical determinants. Based on these insights, three priority strategies are proposed: (1) developing new insurance models while maintaining subsidies; (2) strengthening socialisation and farmer awareness; and (3) integrating premium payments with farmer cards to improve accessibility. These findings provide a practical approach to improving agricultural insurance programmes, promoting financial resilience and advancing sustainable rural development. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2025-08-08 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/kobra-2025081111374 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 126, No 2 (2025) eng Copyright (c) 2025 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4626 2022-10-04T13:14:29Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "220406 2022 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Profitability analysis of smallholder aquaculture farms: the case of Lagos State, Nigeria Adelesi, Opeyemi Obafemi Leibniz Institute of Agricultural Landscape Research https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2573-6164 Baruwa, Olayinka Isiaka Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife Array Nigeria is the largest (total) fish consumer in Africa and among the highest consumers in the world. The domestic fish production is short of the consumption demand despite the vast potentials in the fishery sector. Harnessing these potentials rightly will help to increase employment and increase food fish production and availability. It is clear given the importance of aquaculture in fish production that efforts must be made to encourage entrepreneurs to go into the business. Many have cast doubts on the profitability of aquaculture production, particularly on a smallholder level. This paper determines the profitability of smallholder aquaculture farmers in Lagos State, Nigeria, with a specific focus on catfish farmers. Eighty catfish farmers were interviewed using random sampling among farmers in fish farm estate in Ikorodu, Lagos.  The study used enterprise budgeting, investment and sensitivity analysis to determine the profitability of catfish production in the study area. The study showed that current farmers are having positive cash flow. However, the investment analysis showed that investment in catfish production is not profitable. The enterprise became profitable due to the expansion of the farm enterprise by constructing at least five additional ponds. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2022-01-25 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202203085851 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 123, No 1 (2022) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/4626/15885 Copyright (c) 2022 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/3526 2019-11-19T17:17:05Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "191107 2019 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Distribution of Alternaria leaf blight of sunflowers caused by Alternaria alternata in South Africa Kgatle, Mahlane Godfrey University of Pretoria Flett, Bradley ARC-Grain Crops Institute North-West University, Potchefstroom Truter, Mariette ARC-Vegetable and Ornamental Plants Ramusi, Moses ARC-Grain Crops Institute Aveling, Theresa A.S. University of Pretoria http://orcid.org/0000-0001-9667-3151 Array Alternaria leaf blight (ALB) has been shown in recent years to be one of the major potential disease threats of sunflower capable of causing yield losses in all major production areas. The aim of this study was to determine the causal agent, prevalence and geographical distribution of ALB in the major sunflower production areas of South Africa. Surveys were conducted during 2012/13, 2013/14 and 2014/15 growing seasons at commercial sunflower production fields and at commercial cultivar trials. In the three growing seasons, twenty-nine sunflower commercial production sites were surveyed for ALB disease severity. Furthermore, four cultivars (AGSUN8251, PHB65A25, SY4200 and PAN7049) were surveyed for ALB during cultivar trials in a total of 25 localities during the three growing seasons. The plants were surveyed between 90 to 120 days after planting and leaves showing ALB symptoms were collected. Alternaria alternata was identified as the primary disease-causing organism of ALB in all the fields. Wesselsbron consistently had the lowest ALB disease severity during the 2013/14 and 2014/15 growing seasons, whereas Potchefstroom had the highest disease severity in all three growing seasons. Pearson’s correlation coefficient was greatest for temperature (r=0.6 in 2012/13, r=0.71 in 2013/14 and r=0.84 in 2014/15) and disease severity in all the growing seasons. Information about the distribution of sunflower diseases is important and this survey demonstrated that A. alternata is widespread across sunflower production areas in South Africa and may result in potential yield losses. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2019-02-21 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/20190613558 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 120, No 1 (2019) eng http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/download/3526/11732 Copyright (c) 2019 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/49 2016-04-06T07:58:47Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Long-term Trend in Pre-grazing Horizontal Distribution of Herbage Mass in Bahiagrass Pasture (Paspalum notatum Flügge) Maćešić, Dubravko Department of Field Crops, Forages and Grasslands, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Zagreb, Svetošimunska 25, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia, e-mail: dmacesic@agr.hr, tel: +385 1 2393 702, fax: +385 1 2393 703 Hirata, Masahiko Grassland and Animal Production Division, Faculty of Agriculture, Miyazaki University, Japan Array Grazing by cattle plays a main role in development of spatial heterogeneity in pasture and through it, as well, in stability of particular grazing system. In this study the first five years (1995-1999) of a long-term trial in pre-grazing distribution of herbage mass in bahiagrass pasture, utilised under the same repeated grazing management are shown. Herbage mass was non-destructively estimated with an electronic capacitance probe at 182, 50 by 50 cm locations along 2 permanent line transects. The changes in pre-grazing horizontal distribution of herbage mass during five grazing seasons were measured always on the same position on two transects just before the beginning of each grazing period (27 occasions). The pre-grazing herbage mass shows spatially heterogeneous distribution, as it was indicated by the coefficient of variation in the range from 0.221 (August 1998) to 1.107 (September 1995) for all measurement dates. This research had also the aim to quantify the stability of sward in a long-term distribution of pre-grazing herbage mass in bahiagrass pasture, and the calculated correlation coefficient of multilinear regression (r=0.612) was highly significant (p 0.001). Anyway, it is difficult to say weather this pasture is going to maintain the same spatial pattern of herbage mass in, for example, next five years. That is, to continue this research in the future is necessary task in obtaining more information about spatial heterogeneity of vegetation in bahiagrass pasture, and implication of agro ecological advantages to grazing systems. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2004-05-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/49 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 105, No 1 (2004) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1956 2015-11-25T15:46:39Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "151110 2015 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Factors affecting choice of financial services among rural consumers: Emerging experiences from Gicumbi District, northern Province in Rwanda Mutandwa, Edward University of Rwanda, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Musanze, Rwanda / College of Forest Resources, Mississippi State University, P.O Box 9682, MS 39762, USA Kwiringirimana, Theophile University of Rwanda, College of Agriculture, Animal Sciences and Veterinary Medicine, Musanze, Rwanda Array Enhancement of financial inclusivity of rural communities is often recognised as a key strategy for achieving economic development in third world countries. The main objective of this study was to examine the factors that influence consumers’ choice of a rural bank in Gicumbi district of Rwanda. Data was collected using structured questionnaires and analysed using a binary probit regression model and non-parametric procedures. Most consumers were aware of Popular Bank of Rwanda (BPR) and Umurenge SACCO through radio advertisements, social networks and community meetings. Accessibility, interest rates and quality of services influenced choice of a given financial intermediary. Moreover, the decision to open a rural bank account was significantly influenced by education and farm size (p0.1). These results indicate the need for financial managers to consider these findings for successful marketing campaigns. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2015-08-19 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2015091449031 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 116, No 2 (2015) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/151 2013-04-16T21:32:54Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "111006 2011 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Improving food and nutritional security of small and marginal coconut growers through diversification of crops and enterprises Kalavathi, Santhakumari Agricultural Extension, Agronomy and Horticulture, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Regional Station, Kayamkulam, Krishnapuram post - 690 533, Kerala, India Krishnakumar, Vishnu Potti Agricultural Extension, Agronomy and Horticulture, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Regional Station, Kayamkulam, India Thomas, Regi Jacob Agricultural Extension, Agronomy and Horticulture, Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Regional Station, Kayamkulam, India Thomas, George V. Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI), Kasaragod, India George, Maria Luz International Coconut Genetic Resources Network (COGENT), Biodiversity International Regional Office for Asia, the Pacific and Oceania, Malaysia Array This paper presents the impact of integrating interventions like nutrition gardening, livestock rearing, product diversification and allied income generation activities in small and marginal coconut homesteads along with nutrition education in improving the food and nutritional security as well as the income of the family members. The activities were carried out through registered Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in three locations in Kerala, India during 2005-2008. Data was collected before and after the project periods through interviews using a pre-tested questionnaire containing statements indicating the adequacy, quality and diversity of food materials. Fifty respondents each were randomly selected from the three communities, thereby resulting in a total sample size of 150. The data was analysed using SPSS by adopting statistical tools like frequency, average, percentage analysis, t – test and regression. Participatory planning and implementation of diverse interventions notably intercropping and off-farm activities along with nutrition education brought out significant improvements in the food and nutritional security, in terms of frequency and quantity of consumption as well as diet diversity. At the end of the project, 96%of the members became completely food secure and 72% nutritionally secure. The overall consumption of fruits, vegetables and milk by both children and adults and egg by children recorded increase over the project period. Consumption of fish was more than the Recommended Dietary Intake (RDI) level during pre and post project periods. Project interventions like nutrition gardening could bring in surplus consumption of vegetables (35%) and fruits (10%) than RDI. In spite of the increased consumption of green leafy vegetables and milk and milk products over the project period, the levels of consumption were still below the RDI levels. CBO-wise analysis of the consumption patterns revealed the need for location-specific interventions matching to the needs and preferences of the communities. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2011-10-06 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/x-pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2011052337546 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 111, No 2 (2010) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/5639 2025-01-15T11:38:46Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "240930 2024 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Having inadequate roughages in cold areas in Tanzania? Consider forage oat and barley Mwendia, Solomon Waweru The Alliance of Bioversity International \& CIAT, Kenya s.mwendia@cgiar.org https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3203-8770 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3203-8770 Nzogela, Beatus Formerly Research associate at Alliance of Bioversity International & CIAT, and currently and independent consultant Mwilawa, Angello Ministry of Livestock and Fisheries- Tanzania Notenbaert, An The Alliance of Bioversity International \& CIAT, Kenya https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6266-2240 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6266-2240 Array Proper livestock feeding is key to improving the livestock sector in sub-Saharan Africa. Limited availability of well-performing forage technologies matched with production environment and context is often a constraint to increase forage quality and quantity for livestock productivity. To contribute towards forage technologies for cold areas, we selected four promising small grain varieties and evaluated them in 2020-21. They included two (Conway, Glamis) oat varieties and two (Rihane, Kounouz) barley varieties. In two village sites in Mufindi District in the southern highlands of Tanzania, we established trials in a randomised complete block design replicated three times. While the cultivars produced similar dry matter yields (t/ha), they returned significantly different crude protein (CP%), Neutral Detergent Fiber (NDF%) and in vitro organic matter digestibility. Digestibility was in the order Glamis Conway Kounouz Rihane, while crude protein yield (t/ha) was in the order Glamis Kounouz Rihane Conway. Based on dry matter and crude protein yields and digestibility, Glamis oat would be the most preferable in the study area and other similar ecologies. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2024-09-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2024070910495 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 125, No 2 (2024) eng Copyright (c) 2024 Author(s)

oai:jarts.info:article/4274 2021-06-29T11:30:55Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "210520 2021 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Nutrient digestibility, nitrogen balance and rumen fermentation parameters of West African dwarf goats offered treated maize stover supplemented with Gmelina arborea Akinbode, Risikat Mojisola Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Department of Animal Nutrition Adebayo, Kafayat Omowumi Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Department of Animal Nutrition Aderinboye, Ronke Yemisi Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Department of Animal Nutrition Adefalujo, Hannah Damilola Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Department of Animal Nutrition Akiode, Hakeem Oluwatobi Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta, Department of Animal Nutrition Array A large portion of agricultural crop residues are potential feed resources for ruminants in the tropics. This study therefore, investigated the intake, nutrient digestibility, nitrogen utilisation and rumen fermentation parameters of West African dwarf goats (WAD) fed treated and untreated maize stover supplemented with Gmelina arborea. Twenty male WAD goats (11.50 ± 0.45 kg body weight) were randomly allotted into four treatments with five animals each. Untreated maize stover (MS), urea treated maize stover (UT), molasses treated maize stover (MT) and urea-molasses treated maize stover (UMT) were supplemented with 300 g Gmelina arborea (G) and were offered to each group for three weeks. MS had highest dry matter (DM; 87.1%), neutral detergent fibre (76%), acid detergent fibre (45%) and acid detergent lignin (6%) contents (P0.05). Crude protein content was high in UT (12.5%) and UMT (13%). Animals fed UMT+G recorded higher DM intake and digestibility, whereas crude protein digestibility was higher in animals on UT+G (72.8%) and UMT+G (76.2%). Nitrogen intake was more in goats fed UMT+G (P0.05) and least in MS+G fed group. Higher nitrogen was absorbed and retained by goats on UMT+G. The pH of the ruminal fluid was not affected by the dietary treatments. Concentrations of ammonia‑nitrogen and total volatile fatty acids were higher in UMT+G fed animals. Thus, UMT+G is a good option for proper nutritional utilisation of maize stover which can easily be adopted by farmers given the availability of materials (Gmelina arborea, maize stover, urea and molasses) and simplicity of the technology involved in the treatment of the stover. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2021-02-16 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/202104133653 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 122, No 1 (2021) eng Copyright (c) 2021 Authors

oai:jarts.info:article/2596 2018-01-03T17:08:13Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "171020 2017 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Adoption of an improved bean seed variety and consumption of beans in rural Madagascar: Evidence from a randomised control trial Bosch, Christine Hans-Ruthenberg Institute, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Zeller, Manfred Hans-Ruthenberg Institute, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Deffner, Domenica Hans-Ruthenberg Institute, University of Hohenheim, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany Array This paper studies access to, and adoption of improved seed, as well as the diffusion of improved seed information in a remote area of central Madagascar. The analysis is based on panel data gathered from 2012 to 2014 from 390 households in three villages. In 2013, a randomised control trial was applied. Half of the 390 households were randomly assigned to receive improved lima bean seed (Phaseolus lunatus), which were specifically bred for dry regions. Of the seed-receiving households, 50 % were randomly assigned to receive information on how to store, plant, and cultivate the improved seed, as the variety was unfamiliar in the region. The control group and the two treatment groups are compared with respect to baseline characteristics, bean cultivation, information exchange with other farmers, legume consumption, and willingness to pay (WTP) for improved bean seed. To account for non-compliance, contamination and spillover effects, local average treatment effects (LATE) are estimated. Of the seed-receiving households, 54 % cultivated the seed, reaping an average yield of 6.3 kg per kg of seed obtained. Seed information did not lead to higher yields. A small significant positive impact of seed distribution on legume consumption is found. WTP is 171 % of the local market price for bean seed, free provision of seed and information did not result in a higher WTP. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2017-06-26 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2017062752930 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 118, No 2 (2017) eng Copyright (c) 2017 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS)

oai:jarts.info:article/15 2016-04-04T15:21:20Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Improving On-farm Water Management - A Never-ending Challenge Wolff, Peter Prof. Dr. Peter Wolff, Heiligenstaedter Weg 5, D-37213 Witzenhausen Stein, Thomas-Manuel Dr. Thomas-Manuel Stein, PO Box 508, Hanwood NSW 2680, Australia Array Most on-farm water management (OFWM) problems are not new.They have been a threat to agriculture in many countries around the globe in the last few decades. However, these problems have now grown larger and there is increasing public demand for the development and management of land and water to be ecologically sustainable as well as economic.As there is a close interrelationship between land use and water resources, farmers need to be aware of this interrelationship and adjust their OFWM e.orts in order to address the issues.In their management e.orts, they need to consider both the on-site and the o.-site e.ects. This paper highlights holistic approaches in water management as being indispensable in the future.Present and future water-utilisation problems can only be solved on the basis of an intersectoral participatory approach to water management conducted at the level of the respective catchment area.In the context of this approach, farmers need to realise that they are part of an integral whole. The paper also lists a range of present and future challenges facing farmers, extensionists, researchers, etc.in relation to OFWM e.orts.Among the challenges are: the e.ects of the increasing competition for freshwater resources; the increasing in.uence of non-agricultural factors on farmers’ land use decisions; the fragmentation of the labour process and its e.ects on farming skills; the information requirements of farmers; the participatory dissemination of information on OFWM; the process of changing permanently the agrarian structure; and the establishment of criteria of good and bad OFWM. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2003-05-01 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/15 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 104, No 1 (2003) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/1144 2014-02-04T16:57:27Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 "140130 2014 eng " 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Urban and peri-urban agricultural production along railway tracks: a case study from the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Vazhacharickal, Prem Jose Organic Plant Production & Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Predotova, Martina Organic Plant Production & Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Chandrasekharam, Dornadula Department of Earth Sciences, Indian Institute of Technology Bombay, Mumbai, India Bhowmik, Sharit School of Migration and Labour Studies, Tata Institute of Social Sciences Mumbai, India Buerkert, Andreas Organic Plant Production & Agroecosystems Research in the Tropics and Subtropics, University of Kassel, Witzenhausen, Germany Array Urban and peri-urban agriculture (UPA) contributes to food security, serves as an opportunity for income generation, and provides recreational services to urban citizens. With a population of 21 Million people, of which 60 % live in slums, UPA activities can play a crucial role in supporting people’s livelihoods in Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR). This study was conducted to characterize the railway gardens, determine their role in UPA production, and assess potential risks. It comprises a baseline survey among 38 railway gardeners across MMR characterized by different demographic, socio-economic, migratory, and labour characteristics. Soil, irrigation water, and plant samples were analyzed for nutrients, heavy metals, and microbial load. All the railway gardeners practiced agriculture as a primary source of income and cultivated seasonal vegetables such as lady’s finger (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench), spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.), red amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus L.), and white radish (Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus) which were irrigated with waste water. This irrigation water was loaded with 7–28 mg N l^(−1), 0.3–7 mg P l^(−1), and 8–32 mg K l^(−1), but also contained heavy metals such as lead (0.02–0.06 mg Pb l^(−1)), cadmium (0.03–0.17 mg Cd l^(−1)), mercury (0.001–0.005 mg Hg l^(−1)), and pathogens such as Escherichia coli (1,100 most probable number per 100 ml). Levels of heavy metals exceeded the critical thresholds in surface soils (Cr, Ni, and Sr) and produce (Pb, Cd, and Sr). The railway garden production systems can substantially foster employment and reduce economic deprivation of urban poor particularly slum dwellers and migrant people. However this production system may also cause possible health risks to producers and consumers. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2014-01-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/2013112544608 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 114, No 2 (2013) eng Copyright (c)

oai:jarts.info:article/102 2010-05-13T20:36:58Z jarts:ART

nmb a2200000Iu 4500 2363-6033 1612-9830 dc Variation in the Response of Seed and Embryonic Axes to Incubation Temperature Gradients during Seed Treatments in Pearl Millet and Sorghum Kader, Mohamad A. Director, Consultica Worldwide, PO Box 3089 Tamarama NSW 2026 Australia email: m.kader@mbox.com.au Array Incubation temperature during the presowing soaking of seeds plays a significant role in determining the rate and characteristics of post-treatment germination. Three experiments were conducted on sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L Moench) and pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum L. R. Br.) genotypes to determine the influence of constant, alternating, ascending and descending temperature regimes on germination characteristics of seeds after treatment. Incubation temperatures ranging from 10 to 35C were applied as well as alternating the magnitude and range of day/night temperatures. A third experiment tested a 3-day temperature gradient and its impact on germination and seedling characteristics. All three incubation temperature regimes were combined with various hormonal and mineral seed soaking treatments to test for possible interactive effects. Temperature did not affect the final germination percentage of seeds but influenced the germination rate. Constant temperatures of 20 or 25C induced higher germinative capacity than alternating or constant temperatures of higher or lower magnitude. Increasing the variance in day/night temperature reduced the rate of germination. Incubating seeds during soaking treatments at a constant 20C for 3 days yielded better germination characteristics than a thermal gradient of 25/20/15C. An 8 g l1 NaCl treatment induced greater plumule (shoot) growth than non-treated counterparts and treating seeds with GA3 or salts improved germination characteristics and synchrony of treated seed lots. German Institute for Agriculture in the Tropics and Subtropics (DITSL GmbH) 2006-04-30 00:00:00 Peer-reviewed Article application/pdf http://www.jarts.info/index.php/jarts/article/view/102 Journal of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Tropics and Subtropics (JARTS); Vol 107, No 1 (2006) eng Copyright (c) d5798b869bef6c4460832f765b3b0262