-
Research Article
A Prototype That Improves the Interpretation of Soil Moisture by Using the BGT-SEC Z2 Sensor
Abel Quevedo-Nolasco
,
Graciano-Javier Aguado-Rodriguez*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
317-324
Received:
2 August 2024
Accepted:
24 August 2024
Published:
6 September 2024
Abstract: The amount of water required to irrigate, is essential in agricultural planning. In Mexico the water required for irrigation is generally not estimated when it is carried out despite several estimation methods being available (direct and indirect). However, some methods can be very expensive, requiring preparation time to use them or time to obtain the results. One of the methods involves using sensors based on relative permittivity. This method have been widely used in agriculture because they show the percentage of water contained in the substrate. However, this value helps the producer know the soil moisture status of their crop in percentage units but does not tell them how much water needs to be added to each plant in liters. Knowing this value could help reduce water losses due to infiltration, thereby increasing the crop area. Therefore, it was developed a device capable of recommending the amount of water in v/v (volume of water/volume of soil) required to irrigate a crop. The prototype device was based on the BGT-SEC Z2TM sensor and the ATMEGA 2560TM microcontroller. The obtained device was calibrated and a specific model was developed for two types of soil: sandy (with an RMSE of 0.0107) and loamy (with an RMSE of 0.00556). With factory calibration, a RMSE value of 0.0339 was found for the loamy soil and 0.0278 for the sandy soil. In addition, the sensor was tested on strawberry plants with pots covered with and without plastic mulch (using loamy soil). The results on the strawberry plants, indicated that water consumption was best explained by the specific calibration equation for loamy soil covered with plastic mulch (67.8 mL RMSE) and without plastic mulch (82.8 mL RMSE). Finally, it was found that at least two measurements are required to obtain soil moisture average in plastic mulch strawberry pots and 6 measurements in pots without plastic mulch. With the above, it is concluded that the device developed in this study performed adequately during experiments and the sensor worked continuously without failing.
Abstract: The amount of water required to irrigate, is essential in agricultural planning. In Mexico the water required for irrigation is generally not estimated when it is carried out despite several estimation methods being available (direct and indirect). However, some methods can be very expensive, requiring preparation time to use them or time to obtain...
Show More
-
Research Article
Economic Efficiency of Potato Production by Smallholder Farmers in West Arsi Zone, Oromia Region Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
325-339
Received:
17 June 2023
Accepted:
7 December 2023
Published:
11 September 2024
Abstract: This study investigated Economic Efficiency of Potato Production in West Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 117 respondents randomly selected from designated locations in West Arsi Zone. A stochastic production frontier function was fitted to the sample households. The result revealed that the mean TE, AE and EE was about 75.60%, 91.41% and 69.07% of for potato production. The sum of the partial elasticity of all inputs were 1.17 for Potato indicating an increase in all inputs at the sample mean by one percent increase by 1.17%. This indicates that the production function is characterized by increasing returns to scale productions. The result of Tobit model estimation indicated that the technical efficiency of Potato production in West Arsi Zone is significantly influenced by the variables potato farming experience, education level, social participation and Extension contact affect efficiency positively while, distance to FTC affect technical efficiency negatively. The mean potato yield difference between sample farmer due to technical efficiency variation was 31.04 qt per ha. District office of Agriculture, stockholders and concerned bodies should focus on farmers experience sharing, providing technical support and farmers practice different social participation to improve his/her income could jointly contribute to the improvement in efficiency of Potato farmers in West Arsi Zone.
Abstract: This study investigated Economic Efficiency of Potato Production in West Arsi Zone, Oromia Region, Ethiopia. Structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 117 respondents randomly selected from designated locations in West Arsi Zone. A stochastic production frontier function was fitted to the sample households. The result revealed that t...
Show More
-
Research Article
Introduction and Evaluation of Moringa oleifera (Lam) Growth in Two Districts of Bale Zone, Oromia Region, Southeast Ethiopia
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
340-345
Received:
19 April 2024
Accepted:
14 May 2024
Published:
11 September 2024
Abstract: Moringa oleifera is one of the most important plants which has to be introduced, conserved and promoted for its social, economic and environmental benefits. Study was conducted aimed to introduce M. oleifera through evaluating its growth performance under the field condition of mid-altitude areas of Bale, Ethiopia. The experiment was laid-out using randomized complete block design with three replications on two locations. In the study the necessary plant growth traits namely survival rate, plant height and diameters (at breast height and root collar) were collected and analyzed by Genstat software. As to results except survival rate other growth performance traits of the studied species were statistically influenced by location in the subsequent years of monitoring period. With this, the mean value of survival rate recorded at Dello-menna was > 80% whereas at Goro it was < 80% throughout the years of study period. For plant height the recorded mean values were found between 65 cm to 370.30 cm and 58.30 to 296.70 cm range in the respective Dello-menna and Goro sites. Breast height diameter ranged from 0.747 cm to 6.533cm at Goro site and from 1.00 cm to 8.983cm at Dello-menna. In terms of root collar diameter, the values ranged from 1.933 cm to 9.867 cm and from 1.410 cm to 4.592 cm at Dello-menna and Goro sites, respectively. The values pointed that M. oleifera had showed a promising growth and development over both locations with relatively the higher performance at Dello-menna site than Goro. Therefore, the species could be demonstrated, promoted and scaled-up to the farming community of Dello-menna, Goro and other areas with similar agro-ecology. However, the nutritive value of the species in response to the studied locations has remained the focus of future research area.
Abstract: Moringa oleifera is one of the most important plants which has to be introduced, conserved and promoted for its social, economic and environmental benefits. Study was conducted aimed to introduce M. oleifera through evaluating its growth performance under the field condition of mid-altitude areas of Bale, Ethiopia. The experiment was laid-out using...
Show More
-
Research Article
New Genus Lobidiscus and New Combinations of Genera of Moutan, Liquidambar and Hamamelis (Hamamelidales)
Da-Li Fu*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
346-355
Received:
3 September 2024
Accepted:
25 September 2024
Published:
10 October 2024
Abstract: Hamamelidales Griseb. (1854) order serves as a foundational group and plays a significant role in the research of evolutionary systematics of the class Rosopsida Batsch (1802) of Fructophyta D. L. Fu & H. Fu (2018). To address the ambiguities surrounding the circumscription of certain genera within this order, such as Paeonia L. (1753), Liquidambar L. (1753), and Hamamelis L. (1753), relevant chloroplast complete genome sequences from the NCBI database were retrieved, and evolutionary analyses were conducted on these sequences in this study. Notably, Lobidiscus D. L. Fu, gen. nov., a new genus endemic to America characterized by its distinctly lobed floral discs, has been separated from Paeonia L. belonging to Paeoniaceae (Bercht. & J. Presl) Rudolphi, nom. cons. (1830), and Lobidiscus californicus (Nutt.) D. L. Fu is designated as its type species. This new genus derives from Moutan Rchb. (1827), rather than Paeonia L., given that a maximum PHS value of 0.837 were observed between Lobidiscus brownii (Hook.) D. L. Fu and Moutan delavayi (Franch.) D. L. Fu based on CPCG evolutionary analyses. Meanwhile, the application of the minimum criterion PHS ≤ 0.928 (intergeneric, CPCG) for genus classification of Fructophyta D. L. Fu & H. Fu, has led to confirmation of two synonyms for Liquidambar L.: Altingia Noronha and Semiliquidambar H. T. Chang; additionally, three current synonyms for Hamamelis L., including Distylium Siebold & Zucc., Parrotia C. A. Mey., and Sycopsis Oliv., have been scientifically identified. In total, 13 novel family names like Liquidambaraceae D. L. Fu, Dianthaceae D. L. Fu, Diospyraceae D. L. Fu and Ilecaceae D. L. Fu have been established, along with two new specific epithets, Hamamelis hubeiensis D. L. Fu and Hamamelis grandifolia D. L. Fu, and 39 newly valid combinations involving Hamamelis L., Liquidambar L., Lobidiscus D. L. Fu, and Moutan Rchb. also been published, such as Hamamelis annamica (Gagnep.) D. L. Fu, Liquidambar cambodiana (Lecomte) D. L. Fu, Lobidiscus brownii (Hook.) D. L. Fu, and Moutan suffruticosus (Andrews) D. L. Fu. These contributions will effectively clarify taxonomic nomenclature confusions in a scientific manner while establishing a robust foundation for further research into the evolutionary systems within the order Hamamelidales Griseb.
Abstract: Hamamelidales Griseb. (1854) order serves as a foundational group and plays a significant role in the research of evolutionary systematics of the class Rosopsida Batsch (1802) of Fructophyta D. L. Fu & H. Fu (2018). To address the ambiguities surrounding the circumscription of certain genera within this order, such as Paeonia L. (1753), Liquidambar...
Show More
-
Review Article
Contract Farming in Low and Lower-Middle-Income Countries: Using Meta-Analysis and Factor Analysis
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
356-365
Received:
19 May 2024
Accepted:
26 June 2024
Published:
29 October 2024
Abstract: Purpose: Smallholder farmers' agriculture in developing countries particularly in low and lower-middle-income countries is known for poor production and productivity levels which has been related to the inadequate use of improved agricultural inputs and marketing systems, and in this case, contract farming. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the various factors which affect contract farming among smallholder farmers in developing countries. However, trying to investigate those contract farming determinants by a single analytical method leads it to have limited findings, narrowed generalizability and difficulty in investigating major determinants that determine contract farming success. Therefore, a joint approach using factor analysis and meta-analysis can give a more comprehensive understanding of contract farming factors. Methodology: The data was gathered through a Systematic Literature Review, finding a total of 3007 studies from SCOPUS, PubMed, PubAg, and EMBASE. The PRISMA method was applied to, and finally, 35 peer-reviewed articles in English between January 1990 to September 2023 were selected. Findings: The meta-analysis showed interesting insights into factors influencing contract farming participation. Education and household size exhibited a negative association, suggesting that farmers with higher education levels and larger families may be less likely to participate in contract farming arrangements. This could be due to a preference for independent decision-making or the need for family labor in alternative income-generating activities. On the other hand, farmers with larger landholdings are more inclined to participate. To encourage broader participation, policymakers, and program designers could consider targeted outreach and support services for these specific demographics. Originality and value: Our new approach, joining meta-analysis and factor analysis, sheds innovative light on contract farming determinants. While the expected determinants like farm and household size, along with education, remained significant, our analysis showed unexpected nuances. Age of the household head emerged as potentially favoring younger, less experienced farmers. Moreover, access to extension services played an important role, while large household size might have a more complex influence depending on age composition. This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights for targeted outreach programs and collaboration with extension services to optimize contract farming adoption and success in developing countries.
Abstract: Purpose: Smallholder farmers' agriculture in developing countries particularly in low and lower-middle-income countries is known for poor production and productivity levels which has been related to the inadequate use of improved agricultural inputs and marketing systems, and in this case, contract farming. Therefore, this study aimed to investigat...
Show More
-
Research Article
Research on Resistance Monitoring, Risk Assessment, and Mechanisms of Megalurothrips usitatus
Gong Rui,
Huang Lifei,
Cao Xuemei,
Wang Huanting,
Liu Hongquan,
Yang Lang*
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
366-372
Received:
8 September 2024
Accepted:
29 September 2024
Published:
29 October 2024
Abstract: Megalurothrips usitatus, also known as common thrips or cowpea thrips, is a widely distributed and highly destructive pest, primarily infesting legume crops. Due to its short generation cycle, high reproductive capacity, and concealed lifestyle, the effectiveness of chemical pesticide control has been continuously diminishing with the modernization of agricultural production and the extensive use of pesticides. Megalurothrips usitatus has gradually developed resistance to various commonly used pesticides, with resistance levels increasing year by year, thus exacerbating the difficulty of pest management and causing significant economic losses to agricultural production. Scholars, both domestically and internationally, have conducted in-depth research using methods from morphology, molecular biology, and ecology, showing that there are three main causes of pest resistance: enhanced detoxification enzymes, reduced sensitivity at target sites, and decreased cuticle penetration. These findings provide a wealth of theoretical support for resistance monitoring and management. The resistance of Megalurothrips usitatus to multiple pesticides is not only a local issue but also affects global agricultural sustainability. Research on the monitoring, risk assessment, and mechanisms of resistance in Megalurothrips usitatus contributes to prolonging the effective use of pesticides, improving control outcomes, and enhancing both the yield and quality of cowpea crops. These studies also provide a scientific basis for developing more effective control strategies and ensuring sustainable agricultural development.
Abstract: Megalurothrips usitatus, also known as common thrips or cowpea thrips, is a widely distributed and highly destructive pest, primarily infesting legume crops. Due to its short generation cycle, high reproductive capacity, and concealed lifestyle, the effectiveness of chemical pesticide control has been continuously diminishing with the modernization...
Show More
-
Research Article
Soil Fertility Management Practice Among Arable Crop Farmers in Ifedore Local Government, Ondo State, Nigeria
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
373-381
Received:
15 September 2024
Accepted:
6 October 2024
Published:
31 October 2024
Abstract: The research was conducted to understand the farming system with regards to soil fertility management practices among rural food crop growers in the local government of Ifedore in Ondo State. A multistage, random, and cluster technique of sampling was employed to choose 120 respondents for the research, descriptive and inferential statistics were both utilized to analyze results. Investigations showed that the average age was 47.5 years which implies that a significant number of arable crop farmers are active and predominantly in their Middle Ages, the overall farm average was 3.7 hectares, indicating that the majority of respondents were small-scale farmers, the average number of crop growers’ children was 4 children, the average farming experience in years is 18.7 years, indicating that most farmers had significant experience in arable crop production. A majority of the farmers practiced crop rotation and alley cropping. A majority (71.7%) of farmers received information on soil fertility management through radio. 58.3% of the farmers practiced intercropping as an indigenous soil fertility management practice. The correlation outcome showed that years of farming experience and soil fertility management techniques are significantly correlated. The chi-square result indicated that no significance exists between the source of soil fertility knowledge and the management techniques for soil fertility. As a result, it is necessary that considering the significance, programs should be implemented to improve soil fertility management techniques among arable farmers in the research region.
Abstract: The research was conducted to understand the farming system with regards to soil fertility management practices among rural food crop growers in the local government of Ifedore in Ondo State. A multistage, random, and cluster technique of sampling was employed to choose 120 respondents for the research, descriptive and inferential statistics were b...
Show More
-
Research Article
Evaluation of Alley-cropping Agroforestry System and Conventional System of Agriculture on the Productivity of Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.) in Dschang, West Region of Cameroon
Issue:
Volume 12, Issue 5, October 2024
Pages:
382-390
Received:
11 October 2024
Accepted:
1 November 2024
Published:
22 November 2024
DOI:
10.11648/j.ajaf.20241206.11
Downloads:
Views:
Abstract: Cabbage is one of the main vegetable crops grown in Cameroon. However, production is limited by rising prices and the scarcity of chemical fertilisers on the market. The rise in cost of fertilizers leaves some farmers reluctant to use fertilisers and as a result leads to lower yields, hence, low crop profitability. The aim of this study was to compare the two systems of agriculture; agroforestry system with the conventional system on the growth of cabbage (Brassica oleracea L.). Research plots were established on the campus of the University of Dschang, in the West Region of Cameroon. The comparisons were made on the basis of productivity, pest abundance and economic profitability. Data on yield and pest susceptibility variables were collected during the field trials. It was realised that the slug (Deroceras reticulatum) population was higher in the agroforestry system (4.62±2.41 slugs) than in the conventional system (1.03±0.55 slugs). The aphid population (Brevicoryne brassicae) was higher in the conventional cropping system (25.31±38.94 aphids) compared with the alley-cropping agroforestry system (0.71±0.62 aphids). Productivity variables showed that cabbage yield did not vary between the two production methods. It was 66.08 t/ha and 66.76 t/ha respectively for the agroforestry system and the conventional system. The economic analysis showed that the agroforestry system was more profitable than the conventional system. Thus, growing cabbage in an agroforestry system is an ecological and profitable strategy for agriculture that is more resilient to climatic variations.
Abstract: Cabbage is one of the main vegetable crops grown in Cameroon. However, production is limited by rising prices and the scarcity of chemical fertilisers on the market. The rise in cost of fertilizers leaves some farmers reluctant to use fertilisers and as a result leads to lower yields, hence, low crop profitability. The aim of this study was to comp...
Show More
