Journal of Agricultural Science and Environment

EFFECTS OF STORAGE CONDITIONS AND SEED SCARIFICATION ON SEED GERMINABILITY OF FIVE MULTIPURPOSE TREE SEEDS

A. O. JOLAOSHO — 2025-05-13

The study was conducted at University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of 6750 seeds of five pasture legume species each, were stored under five storage conditions: refrigerator: deep freezer; wooden box with silica gel; earthen pot and unstored for 9 months. Seeds were sampled at of 30 days interval. They were scarified with concentrated sulphuric acid, sand paper, hot water at 60oC for 10 minutes, hot water at 100oC for less than one minute and the unscarified (control). After scarification, 10 (ten) seeds of each legume species under different storage conditions were placed on moistened cotton wool in petri dishes under laboratory condition for germination. The experiment was 5x5x9 factorial arrangement (legume species. storage conditions and storage periods) replicated three times. The data collected at monthly interval were subjected to General Linear Model of Minitab (1999). The results of this experiment showed that the highest germination was recorded in seeds stored in earthen pot (74.91%) followed by seeds stored in deep freezer (48.47%). The unstored seeds had the least germination (10.74%). With the earthen pot, germination was highest from Albizia saman (AS) seeds (87.63%), when Enterolobium cyclocarpum (EC) seeds had 84.49% with Telphro sia bracteolata (TB) having the least germination of 17.26%. Also, the highest germination was in hot water treatment at 600C (41.48%) which was closely followed by seeds treated with sand paper (40.74%) while untreated seeds (control) had the least germination percentage. In conclusion, forage legume seeds are better stored in cool environment with the earthen pot creating a cool and natural environment with no fluctuation in electricity. Using hot water at 600C and mechanical scarification with sandpaper having similar percentage germination of seeds. Storing seeds for six to seven months had the highest germinations of seeds.

GUIDE TO AUTHORS

E. A. Makinde — 2025-05-13

ANALYSIS OF RABBIT PRODUCTION PRACTICES BY FARMERS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

O. Y., AYO-AJASA — 2025-05-13

Rabbit production is a socio-economic activity that could lead to improved income and living standard of Nigerians. This study was conducted to determine the analysis of rabbit production practices by rabbit farmers in Ogun State, Nigeria. A total of ninety-one (91) respondents were sampled with the aid of a well-structured questionnaire. Data obtained were subjected to both descriptive and inferential statistics using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS, 2020). The highest number of respondents were within 31- 40 years age bracket (39.56%); about 52.70% were Christians while 84.60% had formal education up to tertiary level, with 64.83% having Bachelors degree. There were no significant associations between sex (χ² = 49.48, df = 1), religion (χ² = 151.1, df = 2), educational status (χ² = 88.50, df = 4), academic qualification (χ² = 334.4, df = 4), ethnicity (χ² = 122.56, df = 2), marital status (χ² = 57.51, df = 3) and production level. There was a positive relationship between respondent’s years of experience in rabbit farming and level of production. Rapid growth rate (P=0.013) significantly influenced production level. The study concluded that the level of rabbit production in Ogun state is still low and poor access to credit and poor public acceptability towards rabbit farming constitutes the major constraints to rabbit production in the state.

TECHNICAL EFFICIENCY AND PROFITABILITY ANALYSIS OF CATFISH FARMING IN ONDO STATE, NIGERIA

A. M. ABBAS — 2025-05-13

Catfish farming is a popular agricultural business in Nigeria because of its short production cycle and a quick return on investment. The objectives of the study were to determine the economics and technical viability of catfish farming in Ondo State, Nigeria. Purposive and simple random sampling methods were used to select 171 catfish farmers from five local government areas of the state, using structured questionnaires. Analytical techniques used were stochastic frontier production model, the net farm income analysis, and descriptive statistics. Nearly 70% of the catfish farmers were in the productive and active range of 20 – 49 years and roughly 67.25% of them had post-secondary education. The profitability analysis indicated that a kilogramme of food-size catfish was sold for ₦938.96, while the total production cost was ₦952.30, leading to a loss of ₦13.34 per kg of food-size catfish. Estimates of the maximum likelihood of the stochastic frontier production model showed that variables such as pond size (t = 2.809), fish seeds (t = 14.065), feed (t = 9.548), and labour (t = 8.915) were significant and had a direct relationship with the amount of catfish output. Mean technical efficiency level was 0.88, while the value of returns to scale was 1.65, indicating increasing returns to scale. The study concluded that the efficiency level among catfish farmers was high and that catfish farming or production in the study area was not profitable due to the high cost of catfish feed. It is recommended to use supplementary feed, such as maggots, to reduce the astronomical cost of feeding catfish.

FISH SPECIES COMPOSITION AND DISTRIBUTION IN FISHING COMMUNITIES ALONG OGUN RIVER BASIN, SOUTHWEST, NIGERIA

O. M. ADEOSUN — 2025-05-13

The rate of overexploitation, pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, invasive species, and disease outbreaks in inland waters pose significant threats to biodiversity, underscoring the need for comprehensive research on freshwater ecosystems. Monitoring the diversity, abundance and richness of species in these ecosystems is crucial for assessing their status and stability. This research aimed to develop a comprehensive catalogue of fish species in Ogun River, facilitating ongoing monitoring of endangered or extinct species. The catalogue will provide a vital baseline for conservation and management efforts, promoting the long-term sustainability of the river's ecosystem. This study was carried out along Ogun River basin, for nine months from December 2019 to August 2020, in five fishing communities (Oyan, Alamutu, Lafenwa, Oriyanrin, Akomoje) based on their level of fishing activity. Data were collected through experimental field record of fish species across five landing sites with each site sampled on monthly basis with minimum of three canoes assessed in each location for their catches. The catches were sorted and identified into species using standard fish identification keys. Results revealed that, Twenty eight (28) fish species from 16 families were found in Ogun River, with family Cichlidae accounting for the highest proportion (32.1%), followed by the families Mormyridae (10.7%), Alestidae (7.1%), and Anabantidae (7.1%). Of the 28 fish species, only eight (28.6%) were evenly distributed across all locations. An examination of the fisheries value chain in Ogun River revealed that despite the critical roles played by various stakeholders, their participation in the formulation and implementation of policies guiding fisheries activities was remarkably low. This is particularly disturbing given the actors' intimate familiarity with the river's ecosystem. The findings of this study underscore the urgent need for sustainable management practices to conserve the fisheries resources of Ogun River. Gear restriction, closed season/area, number of fishermen per trip, diversification of fishers into aquaculture and non-fisheries activities were strongly recommended to conserve the fisheries resources of the River.

IMPACT OF GARLIC EXTRACT ADMINISTRATION FREQUENCY ON HAEMATOLOGICAL AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL PARAMETERS OF BROILER CHICKENS

F. A. ADEWOLE — 2025-09-24

Phytogenic additives like garlic are increasingly valued in poultry production for their natural growth-promoting, antimicrobial, and health-enhancing properties, making garlic a viable alternative to antibiotics in broiler production. This study investigated the impact of garlic extract administration frequency on the haematological and serum biochemical indices of broiler chickens. A total of 300-day-old COBB-500 chicks were assigned to five treatment groups: T1 (standard check with antibiotics), T2 (garlic extract three days/week), T3 (five days/week), T4 (daily), and T5 (control with water only), each with four replicates of 15 birds over 42 days. Garlic extract was prepared by soaking 50 g of ground garlic in 1 litre of boiled water for 12 hours and administered at a concentration of 7.5 g per litre through drinking water according to treatments. Birds were raised on deep litter with ad libitum access to feed and water. Blood samples were collected on days 21 and 42 for analysis. One-way ANOVA was employed for data evaluation using SAS. There were significant variations (P<0.05) in eosinophil levels, mean corpuscular volume, and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration at the finisher phase. Total protein, globulin, Aspartate aminotransferase (AST), Alanine aminotransferase (ALT), levels at the starter phase, along with total protein, albumin, globulin, Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and uric acid at the finisher phase, were also significantly influenced by frequency of garlic extract administration. Garlic extract (7.5 g per litre) administration frequencies positively affected haematological and biochemical parameters in broiler chickens at starter and finisher phases.

AWARENESS, WILLINGNESS AND PERCEIVED BENEFITS OF BLACK SOLDIER FLY LARVAE IN AQUAFEED PRODUCTION AMONG OGUN STATE FISH FARMERS

O.C. OJELADE — 2025-09-24

Black Soldier Fly Larvae Meal (BSFLM) is a viable alternative to conventional fishmeal, offering a high-protein content that meets the nutritional needs of fish. This study assessed the awareness, willingness, and perceived benefits of BSFLM-based aquafeed to fish farmers in Ogun State. A multistage sampling technique was adopted. Ogun State Agricultural Development zoning system was adopted and blocks with prevalent fish farming activities were selected. Purposive selection was done to select 307 farmers within the study area. This ensured that only farmers relevant to the study’s focus, who are capable of providing accurate and relevant information needed were selected. A structured interview guide was used to elicit information on socio-economic characteristics, awareness, willingness and perceived benefits of BSFLM. Data collected were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistical tools (SPSS, v25). Majority (87%) of the farmers were married; 88% were male. Average age was 39 years; household size – 6; years of farming experience – 13 and average monthly income was ₦279,511. BSFLM awareness rate of 82.4% was relatively high, and only 19.8% were aware of its use in aquafeed formulations. About 91% of the respondents showed willingness to adopt BSFLM. Willingness tested as the dependent variable indicated that years of experience (p = 0.042), average monthly income (p=0.019), number of ponds owned by farmers and the quantity of harvest, significantly influenced willingness to adopt BSFLM. Perceived benefits result indicated that about 89% of farmers perceived that BSFLM does not pose a potential risk to consumers, 94% perceived BSFLM-formulated feed is cheaper and 73% agreed that BSFLM in aquafeed does not affect consumer acceptability. Inadequate training (x=2.23) was identified as the highest barrier to the adoption of BSFLM while competition with other farmers (x=1.74) was the lowest ranked. The study concluded that majority of farmers have basic awareness of BSFL. Most farmers were noted to show a high level of willingness and they perceived the benefits of BSFLM. The study recommends that targeted educational programs be developed to bridge this knowledge gap, alongside policies that ensure the availability and affordability of BSFLM.

PERFORMANCE OF PINEAPPLE (Ananas comosus L. MERRIL. VAR. SMOOTH CAYENNE) AS INFLUENCED BY TILLAGE SYSTEM AND SUCKER SIZE

F. O. OYELAKIN — 2025-09-24

Optimizing pineapple production through proper agronomic practices, particularly by understanding the impact of tillage systems and sucker size, is crucial for efficient and productive cultivation. This study was conducted to validate the effects of sucker size on growth and yield of smooth cayenne pineapple under two tillage systems. A field experiment was conducted at the Teaching and Research Farm, Ajayi Crowther University, Oyo. It was a 2 x 3 factorial, arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replicates. Conventional tillage- T1 and Reduced tillage -T2 was the main factor while three classes of sucker size (S1 = Small (50-200 g); S2 = Medium (201-400 g) and S3 = Big (≥ 401 g) was the sub plot factor. Data collected were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using statistical software (SAS) and means separation using (DMRT) at 5% probability. There were significant differences in pineapple growth and yield attributes between the two tillage methods and among the three sucker sizes. Conventional tillage system was significantly superior in terms of pineapple plant height (65.92 cm), numbers of leaves (29.57), D-leaf width (3.18 cm), leaf area (103.43 cm²) and fruit yield (32.98 t/ha) while reduced tillage system was the least. Big sucker (≥400 g) was superior and best in terms of pineapple plant height (78.66 cm), number of leaves (39.56), D-leaf length (64.09 cm), D-leaf width (3.42), leaf area (132.26 cm²) and fruit yield (53.66 t/ha), followed by the medium sucker while small sucker was the least. Conclusively, Conventional tillage practice, specifically constructing beds, is the most effective method for land preparation to improve pineapple growth and yield while big suckers ≥401 g are most suitable for planting pineapple, leading to good growth and optimal yield.

ASSESSMENT OF THE SOCIO-ECONOMIC EFFECTS OF CHARCOAL PRODUCTION ON DEFORESTATION AND ENVIRONMENTAL DEGRADATION IN YEWA DIVISION, OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

W. A. SALAMI — 2025-09-24

Continuous production of charcoal has been exacerbating deforestation and forest degradation in the tropical forests of the developing countries, where alternative fuel sources are scarce. This study assessed the effects of the socio-economic characteristics associated with charcoal production, with a view to examine their effects on deforestation and the environmental degradation in Yewa division of Ogun State, Nigeria. Information were extracted using questionnaire administration. Landsat imagery of 2000 and 2020 that covered the study area were analyzed using descriptive statistics and chi-square at P < 0.05. There was 17.59% reduction of forest cover and 18.50% increase of non-forest between 2000 and 2020. About 57% of respondents were male; about 45% were between 31 and 40 years. Most respondents (71.2%) were married and about 48% had primary education. About 42% of charcoal producers used traditional kiln techniques, while about 46% sourced their raw materials from free areas. Seventeen indigenous tree species from 14 families were utilized for charcoal production, with the Combretaceae family having the highest occurrence. About 60% of respondents preferred tree species from natural forests, while 40.2% favoured those from plantations. There was a significant relationship between educational status, occupation, experience, wood source, and type of wood utilized for charcoal production and deforestation and environmental degradation at P < 0.05. Most preferred tree species was Vitellaria paradoxa. Major significant challenges for charcoal production were tree scarcity, government interference, wildfires, and competition from saw millers. Environmental effects of earth kiln method of charcoal production were harsh weather due to increase in environment temperature and smoke from burning causing eye problems and air pollution. The study concluded that balancing the economic and livelihood needs of local people with the environmental sustainability of forest ecosystems is essential, as environmental degradation will directly affect their livelihoods.

MORPHOLOGICAL VARIATION IN SELECTED CITRUS SPECIES: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS OF SEED MORPHOLOGY AND FRUIT CHARACTERISTICS

O.A. BELLO — 2025-09-24

Citrus species exhibit a wide range of morphological traits essential for taxonomy, genetic breeding, and germplasm conservation. This study assessed morphological variations in fruits and seeds of Citrus grandis, Citrus limon, and Citrus medica, focusing on colour differences and structural features. Fruit specimens were selected based on availability. Seed colour was analyzed using the Munsell Colour Chart. Ten seeds per species were evaluated and fruit structures were examined for the number of ridges and prominent lines. Colour variation in C. grandis ranged from White (8/2 2.5Y) to Yellowish Red (8/2 10YR); in C. medica from Yellowish Red (8/2 2.5YR) to Yellowish Red (8/2 10YR); and in C. limon, from Light Olive Brown (5/6 2.5Y) to White (8/2 2.5Y), showing a broader spectrum. Ridge and line counts varied significantly among species and within individuals. Qualitative colour analysis using the Munsell Chart proved to be a valuable complement to traditional morphological approaches. Results suggest that fruit and seed colouration are not only taxonomically significant but may also influence ecological interactions with dispersal agents.

WEED DRY MATTER ACCUMULATION AND YIELD OF CUCUMBER AS INFLUENCED BY VARIETY AND ORGANIC FERTILIZER RATE

J.O. AMOSUN — 2025-09-24

Fertilizer application to sustain a cropping system can influence weed infestation, and weed growth along with crop yields. Two field trials were conducted between April and December, 2019 at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, in the tropical rainforest-savannah transition zone of southwestern Nigeria. The aim is to determine optimum rate of Organic Fertilizer (Gateway Organic Fertilizer - GOF) on weed infestation and fruit yield of three cucumber varieties. Treatments were: GOF applied at 0, 5, 10, and 15 t.ha-¹ to three cucumber varieties: Marketmore, Poinsett and Marketer. Treatments were arranged in a split - plot fitted into Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with 4 replicates. Data collected on weed fresh weight, dry matter contents and total yield were subjected to analysis of variance using GENSTAT discovery. Organic Fertilizer (Gateway Organic Fertilizer) application had positive influence on fruit yield of cucumber and weed dry matter accumulation. Weed dry matter from plots cultivated to Poinsett variety with either 10 or 15 t.ha-¹ GOF were lower than from other fertilized varieties. Poinsett variety cultivated with either 10 or 15 t.ha-¹GOF had significantly higher fruit yield compared with other interactions. It is concluded and recommended that application of GOF at10 t.ha-¹ with Poinsett variety is optimum for reduced weed dry matter accumulation and yield of cucumber in the tropical rainforest-savannah transition zone.