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Research Article
Gearing Present Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Agroecosystems in the Soconusco, Mexico Towards Sustainable and Good Agricultural Practices
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
259-274
Received:
27 September 2024
Accepted:
21 October 2024
Published:
13 November 2024
Abstract: Dialectic interactions between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG´s), the 2030 Agenda, planetary boundaries (PB) and good agricultural practices (GAP) in agroecosystems with oil palm have rarely been discussed. The main goal of this publication is analyzing reflections and realities about interactions between the 17 SDGs, the 2030 Agenda, nine PB and GAP in agroecosystems with oil palm. The methodological approach included the results of the different field practices during the First International Course of agroecological oil palm production in the Soconusco and consisted of a documentary analysis and focus group discussions. This offered possibilities to analyze qualitative and participative results of the traffic light system methodology (TLSM) and its key issues. The area of oil palm growing in the Soconusco and Istmo-Costa covers 4.37 % and was planted without burning of forestland. The SDG´s that are most strengthened with correct and timely management of the 13 key issues of TLSM, are: SDG2 (Zero Hunger), SDG3 (Good Health), SDG15 (Life on Earth), SDG6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG13 (Climate Action) and SDG1 (Ending Poverty), being addressed in 100%, 69%, 69%, 54%, 54% and 31% of the key issues of the TLSM, respectively. Five PB reflect the realities in the Soconusco. For the biosphere integrity in the oil palm agroecosystems of the Soconusco, the oil palm stands out with growth recordings up to 10 m eco-height and 100000 m³/ha eco-volume, outperforming the annual oil crops sunflower, rapeseed and soybean. Similarly, oil palm dominates the three annual crops for their respective Eco-capacity, decreasing from 41.54 for oil palm down to 0.3 for soybean. The biochemical flow in the oil palm agroecosystems of the Soconusco reveals that the extraction of N from the soil to produce one ton of palm oil is 47 kg, which is 110.6%, 104.3% and 570% lower than that extracted to produce one ton oil of rapeseed, sunflower and soybean, respectively. Additionally, one ton of palm oil extracts 8 kg of P from the soil, which is lesser than that extracted to produce one ton oil from rapeseed, sunflower and soybean. In all intercropping agroecosystems simulations in the Soconusco based on oil palm the most representative indicators of the combined intercrop assortment, are eco-capacity and/or recycling indices as e.g. the K-Olson index of total yearly litter fall. Eco-volume remains a major yardstick for monitoring the partial fulfillment of the five most relevant PB.
Abstract: Dialectic interactions between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG´s), the 2030 Agenda, planetary boundaries (PB) and good agricultural practices (GAP) in agroecosystems with oil palm have rarely been discussed. The main goal of this publication is analyzing reflections and realities about interactions between the 17 SDGs, the 2030 Agenda, nine ...
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Research Article
Biomathematical Integration of the Functional Coexistence Between Macrofauna and Microorganisms in Nicaraguan Agroecosystems: Tau Index (τ)
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
275-288
Received:
2 October 2024
Accepted:
21 October 2024
Published:
13 November 2024
Abstract: Agroecology as a science and Biomathematics provide elements that support precision in agroecological designs. The present study was conducted in 10 agroecosystems in Nicaragua located in five departments (Chinandega, Carazo, Matagalpa, Estelí and Boaco). These sites present diversified systems with crops (corn, rice, beans, coffee), forest and cattle. 250 samples of microorganisms and 250 samples of macrofauna were collected and taken to the Laboratories of the National Agrarian University of Nicaragua. The results obtained describe an abundance of 2084 and a richness of 123 families in macrofauna in interaction with 19 genera of microorganisms. The design of 3D pyramidal graphs represented the functional biological interaction on the x, y, z axes between macrofauna families and genera of microorganisms. The design of the Tau index (τ) equation and the obtained values allow us to elucidate the coexistence between organisms. The 20 most significant macrofauna families with their respective positive Tau indices were: Lumbricidae (3.864), Rhinotermitidae (2.486), Acanthodrilidae (0.706), Agelenidae (0.265), Styloniscidae (0.247), Armadillidae (0.208), Porcellionidae (0.19), Polydesmidae (0.178), Histeridae (0.173) and Mycetophilidae (0.168). The families with negative Tau index were: Formicidae (-1.953), Scarabaeidae (-1.438), Chrysomelidae (-0.173), Ixodidae (-0.166), Elateridae (-0.125), Noctuidae (-0.125), Gryllidae (-0.105), Tettigoniidae (-0.74), Culicidae (-0.71) and Cicadidae (-0.05). The genera of microorganisms were: Aspergillus sp., Aureobasidium sp., Bacillus sp., Candida sp., Fusarium sp., Gliocladium sp., Macrophomina sp., Mucor sp., Paecilomyces sp., Penicillium sp., Pseudomonas sp., Pythium sp., Rhizoctonia sp., Rhizopus sp., Sarcina sp., Streptomyces sp., Torula sp., Trichoderma sp. and Verticillium sp. The Lumbricidae family reached the highest interaction in the 3D graphs and the best values of the Tau index. The functional biological diversity of species is irreplaceable by synthetic means. Synergistic actions should be promoted to increase populations of macrofauna that guarantee the coexistence of beneficial microorganisms for the design of agroecosystems with precise biological interactions.
Abstract: Agroecology as a science and Biomathematics provide elements that support precision in agroecological designs. The present study was conducted in 10 agroecosystems in Nicaragua located in five departments (Chinandega, Carazo, Matagalpa, Estelí and Boaco). These sites present diversified systems with crops (corn, rice, beans, coffee), forest and cat...
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Research Article
Impact of Climate Change on Millet and Maize Yields in the Agroecological Zones of Senegal
Mame Asta Gueye*,
Amadou Tandjigora,
Thierno Bachir Sy,
Elhadj Mamadou Dieng Ngom
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
289-296
Received:
23 October 2024
Accepted:
19 November 2024
Published:
28 November 2024
Abstract: Climate change poses a major threat to agricultural productivity, especially in regions where crops are vulnerable to climate variations. This article examines the impact of climate change on millet and corn yields in Senegal by focusing on various agro-ecological zones and using a multiple regression model. The study analyzes the influence of specific climate variables – evapotranspiration, soil temperature, precipitation, and solar radiation – on crop yields. Results show that the model is effective for corn in eastern Senegal, where the coefficients of determination are significant, indicating predictive reliability. However, for millet, coefficients are low across all zones, reflecting limited model quality for this crop. Furthermore, findings reveal that evapotranspiration and soil temperature negatively affect corn yields in eastern Senegal, highlighting the crop’s sensitivity to heat and drought conditions. These findings contrast with some previous research that, by not disaggregating crops, arrives at less specific conclusions. This study advocates for a disaggregated approach in analyzing climate impacts, enabling a more nuanced understanding of effects by crop and zone. It also emphasizes the need to adapt agricultural practices and public policies to mitigate the adverse impacts of climate change, ensuring the resilience of Senegal’s agricultural sector. This research ultimately recommends tailored agricultural practices and policies to mitigate negative climate effects on yields and bolster the sustainability of Senegalese agriculture.
Abstract: Climate change poses a major threat to agricultural productivity, especially in regions where crops are vulnerable to climate variations. This article examines the impact of climate change on millet and corn yields in Senegal by focusing on various agro-ecological zones and using a multiple regression model. The study analyzes the influence of spec...
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Research Article
Effect of Deficit Irrigation and Mulch Application on Onion (Allium cepa L.) Bulb Yield and Water Productivity Under Drip Irrigation at Ambo, West Shoa, Ethiopia
Selamawit Bekele*
,
Oli Firissa
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
297-309
Received:
16 October 2024
Accepted:
8 November 2024
Published:
29 November 2024
Abstract: Drip irrigation, combined with mulch and deficit water application, can significantly improve the water efficiency of irrigated agriculture. Study at Ambo Agricultural Research Center during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 irrigation seasons aimed to determine the most suitable deficit levels and mulch for drip-irrigated onion. The experiment used a randomized complete block design with two factors: irrigation levels (at 55%, 70%, 85%, and 100% of the Evapotranspiration of the crop) and mulch types (un-mulched, plastic, and straw mulch), resulting in a total of twelve treatment combinations replicated three times. The results showed that irrigation levels and mulch significantly affect bulb yield, water productivity, and yield-attributing parameters. Applying 100% ETc level and straw mulch resulted in the highest yields of 39450 kg/ha and 41038 kg/ha, respectively. On the other hand, the lowest yields were obtained with 55% ETc levels and un-mulched treatments, with respective values of 30913 kg/ha and 33969 kg/ha. Water productivity was also higher for irrigation levels at 55% and 70% ETc compared to 85% and 100% ETc, with values of 10.1 kg/m3 and 9.7 kg/m3, respectively. Additionally, straw mulch application resulted in significantly higher water productivity. Economic analysis indicated that straw mulch had a higher net return with 369% MRR (Marginal Rate of Return) and a benefit-cost ratio of 32.8, while applying a 70% ETc level resulted in a 125% MRR. Based on the results, 70% ETc level with straw mulch for onion production is recommended for the study area, considering bulb yield, water productivity, and economic viability.
Abstract: Drip irrigation, combined with mulch and deficit water application, can significantly improve the water efficiency of irrigated agriculture. Study at Ambo Agricultural Research Center during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 irrigation seasons aimed to determine the most suitable deficit levels and mulch for drip-irrigated onion. The experiment used a random...
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Research Article
Innovative and Cost Effective Water Harvesting and Value Addition in Agriculture for Sustainability: Case Study of Kitui and Wajir Counties, Kenya
Domeniter Naomi Kathula*,
Mohamed Abdinoor
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
310-327
Received:
20 September 2024
Accepted:
28 November 2024
Published:
7 December 2024
Abstract: The agricultural sector, especially in semi-arid regions like Kitui and Wajir Counties in Kenya, faces challenges of water scarcity and inconsistent agricultural yields due to erratic rainfall patterns. This study was underpinned by Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF). The study assessed how water harvesting techniques contribute to improved water efficiency and agricultural productivity, while also examining the role of value addition in ensuring sustainability. Using a descriptive research design, the sample size for the study comprised of 25 farmers and 34 agricultural extension officers and county government officials. Data was collected using both structured questionnaire and Key Informant Interviews (KII). Quantitative data collected from farmers was analyzed with the aid of SPSS using both descriptive statistics and inferential analysis to assess effect of level of adoption of innovative water harvesting techniques on improvement in water efficiency and agricultural sustainability. The qualitative data collected was analyzed thematically through content analysis. The study's findings, were presented on tables and narrative form, giving analysis of the current state of water harvesting and value addition practices and their role in agricultural sustainability. The findings revealed that cost-efficient value addition practices had significant effect on agricultural sustainability in Kitui and Wajir Counties, Kenya, with an R-squared value of 0.584, indicating that these practices explain 58.4% of the variation in agricultural sustainability outcomes. Regression coefficients demonstrated a significant positive effect of value addition practices on sustainability, with a coefficient (B = 0.669, p-value = 0.000). The study concludes that cost-efficient value addition practices play a crucial role in improving agricultural sustainability by enhancing resource efficiency, market access, and profitability for farmers in these counties. In view of the findings, the study recommends that government and agricultural stakeholders should implement financial support programs, such as subsidies and grants, to alleviate the initial costs of adopting value addition practices.
Abstract: The agricultural sector, especially in semi-arid regions like Kitui and Wajir Counties in Kenya, faces challenges of water scarcity and inconsistent agricultural yields due to erratic rainfall patterns. This study was underpinned by Sustainable Livelihoods Framework (SLF). The study assessed how water harvesting techniques contribute to improved wa...
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Research Article
Application of SSR Molecular Marker Technology in Rice Variety Identification
Issue:
Volume 10, Issue 6, December 2024
Pages:
328-332
Received:
12 November 2024
Accepted:
25 November 2024
Published:
10 December 2024
Abstract: This study mainlydescribes the principles and advantages of SSR molecular marker technology, focusing on the analysis and discussion of the application of SSR molecular marker technology in rice variety identification, as well as the technical points of using SSR molecular marker technology to identify rice varieties, including the study of rapid DNA extraction methods, optimization of PCR amplification procedures and reaction systems, improvement of PCR amplification product detection methods, primer screening and construction of DNA fingerprint maps.
Abstract: This study mainlydescribes the principles and advantages of SSR molecular marker technology, focusing on the analysis and discussion of the application of SSR molecular marker technology in rice variety identification, as well as the technical points of using SSR molecular marker technology to identify rice varieties, including the study of rapid D...
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