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Review Article
Finger Millet (Eleusine Coracana (L.) Gaertn) Production Status, Challenges, and Seed Source in Ethiopia; A Review
Bethlehem Melese*
,
Werotaw Sisay,
Hailu Garkebo
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
132-137
Received:
15 April 2024
Accepted:
16 May 2024
Published:
11 September 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20241305.11
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Abstract: Similar to other cereal crops finger millet is being produced in a large volume in Ethiopia, as they are the principal staple food crop. Finger millet is considered as underutilized cereal crop which is commonly grown in the northern, west-northern, and western parts of the country and it is considered as a crop which is important to overcome malnutrition. Regions including Tigray, Amhara, Oromiya, Benishangul-Gumuz, Southern Nation and Nationalities Peoples (SNNP) and Gambela are considered as the potential regions for the production of finger millet in Ethiopia. Relatively, it is considered as drought tolerant as compared to other major cereals such as rice, wheat, and barley. In addition to this finger millet is considered as a highly resilient crop which can grow in different weather conditions, including drought, floods, and marginal soils. In Ethiopia it is commonly grown for the preparation of local foods like ‘injera’ and porridge and local drink such as ‘areki’ or ‘tella’. About 26 varieties of finger millet are cultivated in main season in the country. In Ethiopia, there are a limited source of cereal crop seeds which includes, farmer’s own saved seeds and government seed distributing companies. In this review the status of production, seed source and nutritional importance of finger millet in Ethiopia is presented.
Abstract: Similar to other cereal crops finger millet is being produced in a large volume in Ethiopia, as they are the principal staple food crop. Finger millet is considered as underutilized cereal crop which is commonly grown in the northern, west-northern, and western parts of the country and it is considered as a crop which is important to overcome malnu...
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Research Article
Factors Affecting Seedling Growth Performance and Quality of Two Acacia Species and Shinus Molle on Nursery Stage, Southern Oromia, Ethiopia
Hirpa Abebe*,
Wondmagegn Bekele
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
138-147
Received:
18 April 2024
Accepted:
16 May 2024
Published:
11 September 2024
Abstract: The study was carried out within the Nursery of the Department of Forestry, at Sinana Agricultural Research Center, on the effects of different soils media and varying pot sizes on the early growth of Acacia abyssinica, Acacia saligna and Shinus molle were investigated. Four different soils media used were forest soil (FS), compost (Co), sand soil (SS) and local soil (LS) in different pots size (PS1=8 cm=control, PS2=10 cm and PS3=12 cm lay flats) 15 cm in length and five growing media (GM) or soil mix proportion based on volume GM1= (2 part local/Top soil:2 part forest soil:1 part sand; GM2=2 part local soil:2 compost: 1 part sand; GM3=1 part local soil:2 part forest soil:2 part sand; GM4=3 part local soil:2 part compost:1 sand soil and GM5=3 local soil:2 forest soil:1 sand=control) were filled up of different types of soil named above, and quantified using weighing balance. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) at the Forestry nursery in the study area. The study involved the use of five (5) planting media and three different plastic pots in three (3) replicates. The parameters measured are plant height (cm), seedling root collar diameter (mm) and dry matter (shoot, root and root to shoot ratio). The data collected at the end of twenty weeks were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) and means were separated using Duncan test showed that Schinus molle, A.abyssinica and A.saligina tree species plant and grown in large pot size (PS2) and growing media (GM3) had the highest performance with mean value of plant height 19.83cm, 7.833cm and 13.167cm and seedling root collar diameter in GM5PS3 (4.09mm), GM4PS3 (3.35mm) and GM4PS1 (3.97mm) respectively were high significantly (P< 0.05). It is therefore recommended that large pot size (PS3) and GM2 and GM3growing media be used for optimal production of all Schinus molle, A.abyssinica and A.saligina tree species seedling production at nursery stage and their plantation success. This study revealed that optimum ratio of compost and forest soil in growing media and relatively big container/pot size have favorable good quality of seedling growth for all studied tree species for all growth parameters. This is may be due to nutrient variation in the growing media which is farther needs investigation on growing media nutrients contents.
Abstract: The study was carried out within the Nursery of the Department of Forestry, at Sinana Agricultural Research Center, on the effects of different soils media and varying pot sizes on the early growth of Acacia abyssinica, Acacia saligna and Shinus molle were investigated. Four different soils media used were forest soil (FS), compost (Co), sand soil ...
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Research Article
Adaptation Trial of Sweet Lupine (Lupinus angustifolius L.) Varieties in West Hararghe Zone, Oromia, Ethiopia
Tamrat Dinkale*,
Lensa Urgesa,
Jibrail Hassan
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
148-158
Received:
22 April 2024
Accepted:
16 May 2024
Published:
20 September 2024
Abstract: Little or no information is known about the adaptability and uses of sweet lupine in the Oromia region, especially in Hararghe zones where animal feed shortage is the bottleneck for smallholder farmers. This activity was initiated to evaluate and identifying the best performing sweet lupine varieties in herbage yield, best adaptive and high seed yielder from 2020/21 to 2021/22. The results of the analysis of variance indicated a significant (p<0.05) variation for most evaluated parameters. The longest date of 50% flowering and maturing date was recorded for Walala but the other varieties were similar. Statistical (P>0.05) variation was not recorded. Dry matter yield ranged from 0.66 to 3.10 t/ha at on station while at Quni Segeria and Arba Rakate FTC, it varied between 2.77 to 4.75t/ha and 2.58 to 3.78t/ha respectively. Lupines seed yield varied from 7.56 to 13.93 qt/ha at on station, from 3.92 to 57.5 qt/ha at Quni Segeria FTC, and from 6.22 to 18.6 qt/ha at Arba Rakate FTC. This study showed that there is a high potential to cultivate sweet lupines in the study area. Sweet lupine Walala followed by Propor varieties tolerant to diseases and pests. From this study, it is concluded that the sweet lupine variety Walala followed by Propor was found promising in terms of agronomic traits, DM yield, and seed yield than other varieties during the experimental years that need further evaluation of animal palatability and absorption potential. So, it is possible to recommend Walala and Propor varieties as alternative feed resources under smallholder conditions in the study areas and other places of the West Hararghe zone of the Oromia region with similar climatic and edaphic conditions.
Abstract: Little or no information is known about the adaptability and uses of sweet lupine in the Oromia region, especially in Hararghe zones where animal feed shortage is the bottleneck for smallholder farmers. This activity was initiated to evaluate and identifying the best performing sweet lupine varieties in herbage yield, best adaptive and high seed yi...
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Research Article
Evaluation of Released Finger Millet Varieties in the East Wollega Zone of Western Oromia for Yields and Acid Soil Tolerance
Mamo Mekonnen*,
Temesgen Temena,
Shiferaw Tadesse,
Bayisa Baye
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
159-166
Received:
15 August 2024
Accepted:
7 September 2024
Published:
23 September 2024
Abstract: On the sub humid regions of western Oromia, many finger millet cultivars were released and produced, but their performance on acid soils was not well researched. A field experiment consisted of two factors (nine finger millet verities and two lime rates, limed and un-limed treatments) were laid out in factorial arrangement, Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The experiment was carried out at three locations (Bako, Diga and Gute) during 2019 and 2020 main cropping seasons to identify and recommend finger millet varieties better performing to acid soils of sub humid areas of western Oromia. The interaction effect of variety by lime for two years over three locations was significant for biomass weight and grain yield. Bako 09 produced significantly the highest mean biomass weight and produced increments of 10% biomass weight and 7% grain yield by application of lime compared to un-limed treatment. At Bako, Kumsa, Bako 09, Boneya and Addis 01 produced significantly the highest biomass weight and grain yield compared to others but not significantly different from each other and produced 4% to 12% yield advantage over all mean grain yield. At Diga and Gute, Bako 09 produced significantly high grain yield. Consequently, application of lime increased finger millet grain yield, soil pH, available P, organic carbon and total nitrogen. Considering higher grain yield, production of Bako 09 under limed condition is recommended for the sub-humid western Oromia. Besides lime application and varietal selection, cropping system managements like rotation, integrated use of organic and inorganic fertilizers, and split application of fine particle lime to acid soils require further research attention for sustainable crop production in acidic soils.
Abstract: On the sub humid regions of western Oromia, many finger millet cultivars were released and produced, but their performance on acid soils was not well researched. A field experiment consisted of two factors (nine finger millet verities and two lime rates, limed and un-limed treatments) were laid out in factorial arrangement, Randomized Complete Bloc...
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Research Article
Effect of Intra Row Spacing and Nitrogen Fertilizer Levels on Yield of Shallot in Mulo District, Ethiopia
Alemu Hailu*,
Mosisa Chewaka,
Zerihun Jalata
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
167-174
Received:
13 March 2024
Accepted:
13 April 2024
Published:
26 September 2024
Abstract: The shallot is one of the important alliaceous crops cultivated in many tropical countries. It is an important horticultural crop used to flavor the local stew "wot" and a source of income for farmers in Ethiopia. However, the productivity of shallot is low at study area due to various limiting factors such as low soil fertility, plant population and lack of improved agronomic practices. A field experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of intra-row spacing and nitrogen fertilizer levels on growth, yield and quality of shallot at Mulo District, Oromia Regional state, Ethiopia during 2021/22 off season. The treatments consisted of four intra-row spacing (5, 10, 15 and 20) cm and four levels of nitrogen fertilizer (0, 50, 100 and 150) kgNha-1 tested in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on shallot yield was collected. The interaction effect of intra-row spacing and nitrogen fertilizer influenced the marketable yield, unmarketable yield, bulb weight, bulb fresh weight, bulb dry weight, dry matter and total yield. As a result, the treatment combination of 150kgha-1 nitrogen and 15cm intra-row spacing yielded the highest net benefit of shallot (Eth-Birr 1,012,274), followed by the treatment combination of 150kgha-1 nitrogen and 20 cm intra-row spacing. In conclusion, the above findings indicated that the combined application of 150kgNha-1 with 15 cm spacing can improve shallot growth and productivity in the Mulo district area. However, more research needs to be done in different seasons and locations, taking into account the application rate of nitrogen fertilizer and different intra-row spacing, to generate more reliable information.
Abstract: The shallot is one of the important alliaceous crops cultivated in many tropical countries. It is an important horticultural crop used to flavor the local stew "wot" and a source of income for farmers in Ethiopia. However, the productivity of shallot is low at study area due to various limiting factors such as low soil fertility, plant population a...
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Review Article
Factors Affecting the Quality of Ethiopian Coffee (Coffea Arabica L.)
Meseret Degefa Regassa*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
175-181
Received:
12 December 2023
Accepted:
18 February 2024
Published:
29 September 2024
Abstract: Ethiopia is fortunate in this regard, as it is home to many different types of. Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.) is the main coffee variety in global coffee production, accounting for more than 60% of total production. Arabica coffee accounts for 30% of Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings. Arabica coffee is a popular coffee variety in coffee producing and consuming countries due to its unique aroma and taste and lack of caffeine. Ethiopia's most important export is coffee, which is also its most important crop. Ethiopia is well known for producing very high-quality coffee, renowned for its excellent aroma and taste, and is also the birthplace of Arabica coffee. The coffee industry attaches great importance to coffee quality. Cup quality is a complex trait that depends on many factors, including species or variety (genetic factors), environmental conditions (ecological factors), agronomic practices (cultivation factors), processing systems (post-harvest factors), storage conditions, and industrial factors. process, beverage preparation and consumer preferences. However, the quality of coffee produced by Ethiopian farmers sometimes deteriorates. Additionally, local genotype, climate and soil characteristics, agricultural practices, harvesting strategy and timing, post-harvest handling procedures, grading, packaging, storage and transportation conditions all affect coffee quality, either improving or decreasing coffee quality.
Abstract: Ethiopia is fortunate in this regard, as it is home to many different types of. Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica L.) is the main coffee variety in global coffee production, accounting for more than 60% of total production. Arabica coffee accounts for 30% of Ethiopia's foreign exchange earnings. Arabica coffee is a popular coffee variety in coffee pro...
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Research Article
Influence of Nitrogen and Phosphorus Fertilizers Applications for Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) Production Under Irrigation in the Fogera District, Northwest Ethiopia
Abebe Getu*,
Demisew Bekele,
Wubayehu Gebremedhin,
Helen Asamenew
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
182-189
Received:
9 August 2024
Accepted:
6 September 2024
Published:
29 September 2024
Abstract: Small-scale tomato production under irrigation is a common practice in the Fogera area of the Amhara Region in Northwest Ethiopia. However, there were no location-specific economic optimum N and P fertilizer recommendations for tomato production in the area. Therefore, a field study was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to investigate the response of tomato to N and P fertilizer applications and determine the economic return of N and P fertilizers applications. Four levels of N (0, 46, 92, and 138 kg N ha-1) and three levels of P (0, 46, and 92 kg P2O5 ha-1) were factorially combined and laid in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The results revealed that tomato yield and yield-related attributes were significantly (p<0.01) affected by the main effects of N. However, the main effect of P and its interaction with N did not considerably influence the yield and yield-related parameters. The highest marketable (39.3 t ha-1) and total fruit yields (46.2 t ha-1) of tomato were recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha-1. The highest net economic return of Ethiopian birr 185,538.50 with a marginal rate return of 1326.1% was recorded from the application of 138 kg N ha-1. Therefore, 138 kg ha-1 N can be recommended to increase the yield and economic return of tomato production in Fogera area. However, as the yield response to N followed a linear response curve, further study with higher rates of N than those considered in the present study is recommended.
Abstract: Small-scale tomato production under irrigation is a common practice in the Fogera area of the Amhara Region in Northwest Ethiopia. However, there were no location-specific economic optimum N and P fertilizer recommendations for tomato production in the area. Therefore, a field study was conducted in 2020 and 2021 to investigate the response of toma...
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Research Article
Analysis of Technical Efficiency on Orange Fleshed Sweet Potatoes Production Among the Smallholder Farmers in Migori County Kenya
Lawrence Otieno Jabuya*,
Shelmith Wanja Munyiri,
Martin Kagiki Njogu
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
190-201
Received:
7 August 2024
Accepted:
2 September 2024
Published:
18 October 2024
Abstract: Sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas L.), particularly the orange fleshed variety, have become increasingly popular due to their ability to thrive in various environmental conditions with minimal inputs. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSPs) show potential for productivity, yet smallholder farmers in Kenya still struggle to maximize their yields. The factors influencing OFSP production efficiency among these farmers in Western Kenya have not been thoroughly examined. This study evaluated the technical efficiency of OFSP production among smallholder farmers in Migori County. Using a descriptive research design, a sample of 225 OFSP farmers was randomly selected by a cluster sampling technique. Data was collected through a structured questionnaire on inputs and selected socio-economic factors. The data was analyzed using the frontier stochastic model in STATA. Smallholder farmers estimated mean technical efficiency was 77.82% significant variables were; size of the land, availability of planting vines, access to hired labour, gender of the household decision maker, farming experience, household size, land ownership status, participation in training programs and extension services, and proximity to markets, indicating a need to improve OFSP production by 22.18%. These findings suggest that to reduce inefficiencies among smallholder OFSP farmers, targeted training programs are needed to enhance farmers' agronomic knowledge specific to OFSP production. Further, policy interventions should prioritize the provision of extension services to support and improve the performance of OFSP smallholder farmers.
Abstract: Sweet potatoes (Ipomea batatas L.), particularly the orange fleshed variety, have become increasingly popular due to their ability to thrive in various environmental conditions with minimal inputs. Orange fleshed sweet potatoes (OFSPs) show potential for productivity, yet smallholder farmers in Kenya still struggle to maximize their yields. The fac...
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Review Article
Climate-Smart Horticultural Practices: Building Resilience in a Changing Environment: A Scoping Review
Usman Mohammed Ali*
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
202-209
Received:
8 September 2024
Accepted:
26 September 2024
Published:
18 October 2024
Abstract: Climate change disrupts weather patterns, intensifies water scarcity and exacerbates pest and disease pressures, posing a significant threat to horticultural production systems. This scoping review explores a range of climate-smart practices to enhance adaptation and resilience within the sector. Core practices like water-efficient irrigation, heat stress mitigation strategies, and adjustments to cropping patterns for altered rainfall are investigated. Integrated pest management is presented as a cornerstone for sustainable pest control. The review further explores the potential of precision agriculture, controlled-environment agriculture, and vertical farming to optimize resource use and mitigate climate risks. Beyond technical solutions, the review emphasizes continuous research and development for breeding climate-resistant varieties, refining existing practices, and exploring novel technologies. It advocates for an integrated approach, tailoring climate smart practices to specific contexts and socioeconomic considerations. Knowledge-sharing initiatives, training programs, economically viable technologies, and supportive government policies are identified as crucial for widespread adoption, particularly among smallholder farmers. The paper concludes with a call for collaboration among researchers, extension services, policymakers, and producers. By fostering knowledge dissemination, technology transfer, and financial incentives, stakeholders can empower farmers to adapt and thrive in a changing climate. Through collective action and unwavering commitment to innovation, the horticultural sector can ensure a secure and sustainable future for food production.
Abstract: Climate change disrupts weather patterns, intensifies water scarcity and exacerbates pest and disease pressures, posing a significant threat to horticultural production systems. This scoping review explores a range of climate-smart practices to enhance adaptation and resilience within the sector. Core practices like water-efficient irrigation, heat...
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Research Article
An Investigation on the Food and Feeding Habit of Sarotherodon Galilaeus (Cichlidae) in Egbe Reservoir, Ekiti State, Nigeria
Adu Wasiu Olawale*,
Dominic Odedeyi
Issue:
Volume 13, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
210-214
Received:
10 September 2024
Accepted:
4 October 2024
Published:
29 October 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.aff.20241305.20
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Abstract: A study on the food and feeding ecology of Sarotherodon galilaeus, a species of cichlid found in Nigeria's Egbe Reservoir. For the investigation, 305 fish specimens were used. The stomach contents were analyzed using diet indices such as stomach fullness, numerical approach, and frequency of occurrence method. Additionally, the Geometric Index of value (GII) was used to determine the relative value of these food products. The findings showed that both adult and juvenile Sarotherodon galilaeus fed on nine various food sources. The variety of food items included rotifers, algae, desmids, diatoms, protozoa, detritus, aquatic insects, aquatic plants, and insect larvae. The inclusion of detritus in the food items suggests that the fish species graze on both surface water and bottom sediments. Algae had the highest frequency of occurrence (46.39%) in both sizes and seasons, whereas rotifer had the lowest value (1.55%). Since it is possible to create the artificial diet required for this species' mass production in Nigeria, the findings of this study are very significant for the culture of that species. Sarotherodon galilaeus can be classified as an omnivore because it consumed a variety of foods. Since feeding accounts for 60–65% of the aquaculture industry for any species being raised, research on fish diet and feeding habits is essential to developing an effective aquaculture management system. As a result, the fish species may be raised in our garden.
Abstract: A study on the food and feeding ecology of Sarotherodon galilaeus, a species of cichlid found in Nigeria's Egbe Reservoir. For the investigation, 305 fish specimens were used. The stomach contents were analyzed using diet indices such as stomach fullness, numerical approach, and frequency of occurrence method. Additionally, the Geometric Index of v...
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