Journal of Agricultural Science and Environment

EVALUATING A POPULATION DYNAMICS OF TERMINALIA IVORENSIS A.CHEV. - A THREATENED TREE SPECIES IN NIGERIA

S. BAMIGBOYE — 2026-06-30

Ivory Coast Almond (Terminalia ivorensis A.Chev.) is a threatened tree species in Nigeria that is being widely harvested by local people for several uses. This study examined a wild population of this species in Ijebu Igbo, Ogun State, Nigeria to determine the status of this population. Data were generated from basal stem diameter and stem height of individuals of this species in the population sampled. Population distribution curves were constructed. There was a bell shape curve of the population distribution which depicts population with poor regeneration capacity, non-viable population and a population strongly affected by ecological disturbances. This study revealed there is a potential increase in local extinction risk of Terminalia ivorensis if populations of this species remain unviable. It is recommended that regeneration of this species be encouraged within areas suitable for its growth and development and reforestations using this species should also be encouraged

ENSILING PROPORTION AND DURATION EFFECTS ON FERMENTATION, NUTRITIONAL QUALITY AND METHANE CHARACTERISTICS OF MAIZE–DANIELLA SILAGE

E. D. BADEJO — 2026-06-30

Seasonal fodder scarcity necessitates alternative silage strategies such as combining maize with Daniella oliveri which may enhance fermentation quality, nutritive value, digestibility, and methane mitigation in tropical ruminant systems. This study evaluated the effects of ensiling proportions and durations of maize (Zea mays) and Daniella oliveri on fermentation quality, nutrient composition, fibre fractions, in vitro digestibility, and methane production of mixed silages. Forage proportions comprising 100:0, 75:25, 50:50, 25:75, and 0:100 maize–Daniella ratios were ensiled in laboratory silos for 0, 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks in a 5 × 5 factorial arrangement fitted into a completely randomized design. Physical characteristics, pH, organic acids, proximate composition, fibre fractions, forage quality indices, in vitro gas production, and methane emissions were determined. Sole maize silage exhibited superior fermentation quality, with lower pH, higher lactic acid, and reduced butyric acid levels, while sole D. oliveri silage consistently showed poor fermentation stability with elevated pH (>6.0) and high butyric acid. Inclusion of D. oliveri improved crude protein (up to 172 g/kg DM at 75M: 25D, 8 weeks) and ether extract content but also increased fibre fractions and reduced fermentation quality at higher proportions. In vitro assessments revealed greater energy efficiency and digestibility in maize-dominated silages, whereas sole D. oliveri produced the highest methane gas (17.3 ml/200 mg DM). Overall, 25% inclusion of D. oliveri with maize balanced nutritional enhancement and fermentation quality, while minimizing methane emissions. These results suggest maize–Daniella silage as a sustainable dry-season feed option for ruminant animal production in the tropics.

PRODUCTION EFFICIENCY OF CATFISH FARMERS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

M. G. OGUNNAIKE — 2026-06-30

Fish farming in Nigeria today tends to be on the increase, but there are some factors limiting its efficiency in the country. The study investigated the production efficiency of fish farmers in Ogun State. The study was conducted with three hundred (300) catfish farmers sampled using multistage random sampling techniques. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Descriptive statistical tools such as frequency counts and percentages were used to describe the socio-economic characteristics of the fish farmers in the study area. Stochastic frontier model was used to measure the production efficiency; budgetary techniques were employed in computing the income accruing to fish production while Tobit regression model was used to estimate the effect of farm efficiency on the profitability of fish production in the study area. Socio-economic characteristics of the fish farmers revealed that majority (84%) of the respondents fall within 51 – 65 years of age, 86% were males, 80% were married and 53% have relatively large household size that ranges between 4 and 6 members. The rate of return on capital investment (RORCI) for the fish farmers was 157%, implying that for every N1 invested into culture fish, N 1.57 was made as revenue; which is about 57 kobo realized as returns. The rate of return on capital invested (RORCI), otherwise called efficiency level was 0.57. The parameter estimates of the production function showed that labour (p<0.01), quantity of fingerlings (p<0.10), and depreciation cost of equipment (p<0.05) had significant influence on output of the fish farmers. Thus, an increase in the labour man-hours, quantity of fingerlings and depreciative cost of equipment will bring about increase in the productivity of the fish farmers. The study recommends that fish farmers in the study area should adapt cost effective measures in fish production to earn better returns among others.

FACTORS INFLUENCING LEVEL OF VALUE ADDITION FOR EDIBLE MUSHROOMS IN OGUN STATE, NIGERIA

O. H. OSINOWO — 2026-06-30

Despite the increasing economic and nutritional importance of edible mushrooms in Nigeria, there remains limited empirical evidence on the factors influencing value addition within the sector. This research investigated the determinants of value addition in the context of edible mushroom production in Ogun State, Nigeria. Primary data were collected through a cross-sectional survey involving 120 respondents selected using a multistage sampling technique from the study area. The study employed dominance analysis, Likert scale, and multiple linear regression techniques. Dominance analysis showed that 47.0% of the respondents have completed secondary education, with an average age of 53.5 years. Major challenges faced by mushroom producers and marketers were: inadequate infrastructure (81.2%), limited value addition equipment (76.7%), low consumer awareness regarding mushroom nutrition (66.6%) and quality control issues (65.2%). Empirical results from the regression model indicated that processing techniques (β = 1.9937; p < 0.10), loan acquisition (β = 0.9642; p < 0.01), education (β = 0.2877; p < 0.05), years of experience (β = 0.2902; p < 0.05), and cooperative membership (β = 0.3923; p < 0.10) significantly influenced value addition in mushroom production. Conversely, sex, branding and packaging, marital status, and household size showed no significant effects. The study concluded that adoption of modern processing methods, improved access to credit, enhanced education and experience, and participation in cooperative societies are key drivers of value addition in edible mushroom production in the study area. It recommends that government and other relevant stakeholders should create an enabling environment that supports technological adoption, capacity development, and financial access for mushroom producers to enhance value addition and market competitiveness.

EFFECTS OF SOURSOP (ANNONA MURICATA) LEAF MEAL ON ORGANS WEIGHT AND HAEMATOLOGICAL INDICES OF RABBIT BUCKS

W. U. OSIAGOR — 2026-06-30

Soursop (Annona muricata) leaves contain useful bioactive compounds and may serve as a natural, low-cost feed ingredient to support rabbit health and productivity. This study investigated the effects of Soursop (Annona muricata) leaf meal on organ weights and haematological indices of rabbit bucks. Sixty mixed-bred rabbit bucks, 20 weeks old with weight range of 1.7–2.0 kg were acclimatized for two weeks and randomly assigned into five dietary treatments containing 0, 100, 200, 300, or 400 g/kg of soursop leaf meal for 10 weeks. Each treatment consisted of 12 rabbits, divided into 3 replicates of 4 rabbits each. Organ weights and haematological indices were evaluated and data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, with means separated by Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (p < 0.05). Significant differences were observed in organ weights, with the highest values for liver, kidney, lungs, heart, and testes generally recorded at 200 g/kg inclusion, indicating enhanced organ development without toxicity. Haematological parameters showed dose-dependent increases in packed cell volume, haemoglobin, and red blood cell counts, alongside decreases in white blood cell and platelet counts, suggesting improved erythropoiesis and immunomodulatory effects. These findings demonstrate that soursop leaf meal, particularly at moderate levels, can serve as a beneficial feed supplement to promote health and physiological function in rabbit bucks.

PERCEPTIONS OF BIOINFORMATICS IN PLANT BREEDING AMONG NIGERIAN STUDENTS

A. A. LAWAL — 2026-06-30

Bioinformatics is increasingly essential across biology, agriculture, medicine, and environmental sciences due to the growing demand for advanced data-driven research. In plant breeding, it enables analysis of complex genomic datasets to enhance yield, resilience to biotic and abiotic stresses, and nutritional quality. This study assessed awareness, understanding, interest, and perceived challenges related to bioinformatics among plant breeding students in Nigerian Universities through an online survey distributed via Google Forms. Responses were collected from Undergraduate, Graduate, and Post-graduate students, with measures implemented to prevent duplication. Findings revealed high awareness (83.7%) and substantial understanding of bioinformatics concepts (71.8%). Interest was particularly strong among postgraduate students, with 89.7% recognizing its importance for the future of plant breeding. Key challenges included insufficient interdisciplinary training, curriculum limitations, and inadequate computational resources. Despite these barriers, 93.7% of respondents supported introduction of dedicated bioinformatics courses. Students further anticipated that bioinformatics would accelerate plant breeding through predictive modeling and contribute significantly to food security. The findings emphasize the urgent need for strengthened bioinformatics education, faculty training, and infrastructural support in Nigerian Universities to equip future plant breeders with essential computational skills.

INFLUENCE OF NPK NANO FERTILIZER ON MICROBIAL COMMUNITIES AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES IN PADDY RICE (ORYZA SATIVA L.)

A. A. OLUBODE — 2026-06-30

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) production in sub-Saharan Africa faces challenges from declining soil fertility to inefficient nutrient management. This screen house study assessed the effects of banana peel-synthesized NPK Nano fertilizer at four rates (Control, 50%, 75%, and 100%) on soil microbial communities, enzyme activities, arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) diversity and root colonization, nutrient availability, and root morphology in two lowland rice varieties (NERICA L-19 and WITA-4) using a 4 x 2 factorial in a Completely Randomized Design with three replicates. NPK Nano fertilizer significantly increased bacterial populations up to 9.9 x 10⁵ CFU g⁻¹, fungal populations up to 19.0 x 10³ CFU g⁻¹, and soil enzyme activities, including amylase (315.0–601.4 mg kg⁻¹), urease (21.80–24.90 mg kg⁻¹), and alkaline phosphatase (122.03–138.6 mg kg⁻¹). AMF root colonization, including arbuscules, hyphae, and vesicles, increased significantly in a dose-dependent manner, with 100% Nano priming reaching 74.33%, 49.50%, and 30.00%, respectively. Five AMF genera were identified: Acaulospora, Funneliformis, Gigaspora, Glomus, and Rhizophagus, with spore density inversely related to Nano fertilizer rate. Soil nutrient availability showed no significant treatment effects, likely reflecting efficient plant-mycorrhizal nutrient uptake. Root fresh weight was significantly highest under 100% Nano priming (42.5 g), while NERICA L-19 exhibited greater root elongation. PCA and correlation analyses confirmed strong positive relationships among Nano fertilizer rate, enzyme activities and AMF colonization. These findings establish NPK Nano fertilizer as a promising tool for enhancing the rhizosphere and promoting sustainable lowland rice production in West Africa.

UTILIZATION OF PUBLIC AND PRIVATE AGRICULTURAL ADVISORY SERVICES AMONG WOMEN FARMERS IN SOUTHWESTERN NIGERIA

M. A. YUSUF-OSHOALA — 2026-06-30

Utilization of Agricultural Advisory Services (AAS) is essential for improving agricultural productivity; however, women farmers often face constraints in accessing and effectively using these services. This study examined the utilization of public and private agricultural advisory services among women farmers in Southwestern Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was used to select 307 respondents. Primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire covering socioeconomic characteristics, types of AAS available, delivery methods, level of utilization, and constraints. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, logit regression, and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Mean age of respondents was 46.99±12.22 years, with an average household size of 6.63±2.93 persons. Value addition in maize (65.8%) was the most available services under public and digital marketing (75.2%) under private sector AAS. More than half (54.5%) of public AAS users recorded low utilization. Cash shortage and high cost of inputs were major constraints. Group delivery method (β=2.50) and monthly income (β=0.01) significantly influenced utilization of public and private AAS, respectively. The study recommended the need to strengthen participatory delivery approaches and improve women’s income capacity to enhance effective utilization of agricultural advisory services.

CURING-BASED MINI-NUT PROPAGATION TECHNIQUE OF KOLA (Cola nitida, Vent. Schott & Endlicher.): AN INNOVATIVE APPROACH FOR GERMINATION AND SEEDLING GROWTH

S. B. BOLADALE — 2026-06-30

Limited information on science and technical knowledge of raising Cola nitida seedlings in the nursery hinders kolanut farmers to overcome challenges post-harvest dormancy. Experiment was conducted in a screen house at Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Nigeria to evaluate the effects of mini-nut techniques, curing in pyramidal device and palm basket on early seed germination and vigorous seedling growth of Cola nitida. Treatments consisted of mini-nut techniques (12.5% embryonic), 25 50, 75 and 100% Cotyledon Portion (CP) and curing media (Pyramid Device (PD), Palm Basket (PB) and PB+PD)). Experiment was 5 x 3 factorial layout in Completely Randomized Design, replicated 3 times. Data collected on seed germination percentage, growth and dry matter production were subjected to analysis of variance and mean comparisons done using DMRT (P ≤ 0.05). Germination commenced at 2 WAS (Weeks After Sowing), in nuts with 25% CP in PD, with 10.0% germination. Other treatments were between 0 and 3.33%. At 8 WAS, nuts with 25% and 50% CP in PD had 100% germination while nuts with 12.5 – 50% PB and PB + PD had 80% germination. Within the same period, nuts with 25% CP in PD produced the tallest plant (34.1cm). Also, 75% CP in PD had significantly wider leaf area (49.1cm²) than those in PB and PB+PD. Nuts with 25, 50 and 75% CP in PD and PB+PD had rapid and uniform germination of Cola nitida, and vigorous seedling obtained within the period of 8 weeks after sowing, in 25 and 75% CP in PD.

MORPHO-PHYSIOLOGICAL DROUGHT TOLERANCE RESPONSE OF UPLAND RICE VARIETIES (Oryza sativa L.) TO ARBUSCULAR MYCORRHIZAL FUNGI INOCULATION UNDER MOISTURE STRESS AT DIFFERENT GROWTH STAGES

A. A. OLUBODE — 2026-06-30

Drought stress is a major constraint on upland rice production in sub-Saharan Africa. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) are a natural and sustainable means of enhancing drought tolerance. This study investigated morphological and physiological drought tolerance responses of three upland rice varieties (NERICA-1, NERICA-4, and Ofada) inoculated with three AMF species (Funneliformis mosseae (Fm), Rhizophagus irregularis (Ri), Glomus etunicatum (Ge), and no AMF under moisture stress imposed at three growth stages (vegetative, reproductive, grain filling and no moisture stress) in a screenhouse. A 3×4×4 factorial completely randomized design with three replications was used. Inoculation with Glomus etunicatum under reproductive-stage stress produced the largest leaf area at 8 WAT. Funneliformis mosseae significantly enhanced N, P, and K uptake in Ofada and increased the grain yield of NERICA-1. AMF root colonization (arbuscules, vesicles, hyphae) was significantly higher in Glomus etunicatum-inoculated plants across all moisture regimes. Moisture stress at the reproductive stage produced the greatest yield reductions, whereas Ge and Fm inoculation significantly mitigated stress effects. There were strong positive associations among AMF colonization percentage, root volume, shoot biomass, and grain yield. There are differential roles of AMF species in modulating drought tolerance at specific growth stages. Glomus etunicatum and Funneliformis mosseae are identified as superior inoculants for improving drought resilience in upland rice in southwestern Nigeria.

ANALYSIS OF FOOD SECURITY AND COPING STRATEGIES OF SMALLHOLDER VEGETABLE FARMERS IN KANO METROPOLIS, NIGERIA

M. HALLIRU — 2026-06-30

Households’ livelihood security remains an important issue in the economic development of low household income communities. The study analyzed the food security and coping strategies of smallholder vegetable farmers in Kano metropolis, Nigeria. Primary data were collected using structured questionnaire. A multi-stage sampling technique was used to select 248 vegetable farmers from three metropolitan Local Government Areas for the study. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the socio-economic profiles of the vegetable farmers and identify the coping strategies adopted to mitigate the effects of COVID-19, while Foster-Greer and Thorbecke (FGT) model was used to estimate the food security status of the vegetable farmers in the study area. Average age of the vegetable farmers was 39 years; majority (96.4%) were married, with an average household size of 7 persons and a low level of formal education. Vegetable production only was the major livelihood practice by 70.6% of the farmers. Using an estimated mean per capita expenditure of ₦137,430 to establish the food security line, 72% of the farmers were food insecure during COVID-19. Major coping strategies practiced along the production, marketing and consumption chain included: accepting lower price, finding new markets and sales of key productive assets. The study concluded that COVID-19 negatively affected vegetable farmer’s livelihoods and marketing activities, mainly through economic losses caused by difficulties in selling produce, reduced access to inputs and labour charges. Therefore, the study recommended programs that encourage off-farm income opportunities, and value addition in vegetable production should be promoted by government, non-governmental organizations, and stakeholders to reduce farmer’s vulnerability to shocks affecting a single source of income.

INTRA-SPECIFIC VARIATION OF NUTRITIONAL COMPOSITION OF EDIBLE TERMITES AT THE FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE, ABEOKUTA, NIGERIA

T. K. ADEBOWALE — 2026-06-30

Edible insects, particularly termites, have gained increasing attention as alternative protein sources due to their high nutritional value and sustainability potential. This study aimed to determine the proximate and mineral compositions of termite castes from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria. Samples collected from five termitaria, were roasted and ground into a fine powder for analyses. Moisture, dry matter, crude protein, crude fat, ash, crude fiber and carbohydrate contents were determined. Magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc and selenium were assessed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS) and the Vanadomolybdate colorimetric method for phosphorus determination. Relationships among proximate and mineral components were determined. Moisture content varied significantly across termite castes, with the Queen exhibiting the highest moisture content (90.53 ± 1.11 g/100 g) and the King the lowest (86.38 ± 0.63 g/100 g). Crude protein content was highest in the Queen (7.78 ± 0.85 g/100 g) and lowest in the Worker (3.15 ± 0.98 g/100 g); fat content was higher in the Queen (1.42 ± 0.72 g/100 g) compared to other castes. Magnesium levels were highest in the Soldier caste (11.49 ± 0.79 mg/100 g), while selenium content was highest in the King caste (28.39 ± 0.82 µg/100 g). Calcium, magnesium and phosphorus exhibited strong positive correlations (p < 0.01) but zinc demonstrated a negative correlation with calcium (r = -0.62, p < 0.05) and magnesium (r = -0.64, p < 0.05). Iron and selenium did not show significant correlations with other minerals, implying independent metabolic regulation. Termites, particularly the reproductive castes, are rich sources of essential macronutrients, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates, underscoring their potential as a highly nutritious food source.

CHARACTER ASSOCIATION AMONG SOME WING BEAN (Psophocarpus Tetragonolobus) ACCESSIONS FOR SEED QUALITY AND YIELD RELATED ATTRIBUTES

J. B. PORBENI — 2026-06-30

Wing bean, also known as God-sent vegetable, could become an important leafy vegetable, with the pods and seeds rich in protein serving as a multipurpose crop. Despite its many uses, inadequate information on the yield and seed characters limits its improvement. Twenty-five accessions of wing-bean seeds were evaluated for variability, seed quality attributes and yield related parameters. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design in 3 replicates, with seeds sown at a spacing of 50 x 50cm within and between rows. Data taken on seed attributes and yield parameters were subjected to Analysis of variance; means separated using Duncan Multiple Range Test. Correlation matrix was used to determine the level of association among the parameters. Significant differences were observed among the accessions for most of the traits. Root length was positively correlated with shoot length, seedling vigour index, number of pods per plant and seed weight per plot (r = 0.435**, 0.596**, 0.261* and 0.291*, respectively) but negatively correlated with pod/seed ratio (r = -0.311*). Seed yield was positively correlated with shoot length, root length, vigour index, number of pods/plant and number of seeds/plant. Seed vigour and yield- related parameters could be used to improve the yield of the wing bean.

MANAGEMENT OF Clavigralla tomentosicollis (HEMIPTERA: COREIDAE) AND Megalurothrips spp (THYSANOPTERA:TRIPIDAE) ON PIGEON PEA (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millspaugh) WITH Petiveria alliacea

R. B. OLAYINKA — 2026-06-30

Pest resistance, non-target toxicity and environmental implications are major issues with the use of synthetic pesticides. However, the need for alternative and sustainable insect pest control is very germane. This study evaluated the potential of Petiveria alliacea, a botanical known for its insecticidal properties, in the control of a pod sucking bug (Clavigralla tomentosicollis) and flower thrips (Megallurotrips spp) that are major yield-limiting pests of pigeon pea. Field trials were conducted over two cropping seasons 2019 and 2020 at the Institute of Agricultural Research and Training, Ibadan. Aqueous Extract ofPetiveria alliacea obtained by mixing 100 g Petiveria alliacea powder with 10 L of water and Black Soap solution as surfactant was applied fortnightly at 90, 105, 120 and 135 days after sowing as 1, 2, 3 and 4 applications. A randomised complete block design with three replicates assessed their efficacy on pest suppression, pod damage and seed yield. Phytochemical screening of P. alliacea was also conducted. Four applications of P. alliacea with black soap significantly reduced pest populations, minimised pod damage (1.4%) and produced the highest seed weight (585 kg/ha). Control plots recorded the highest pest incidence and lowest yields. Phytochemicals such as saponins, flavonoids and alkaloids were confirmed in the plant extract. Petiveria alliacea extract with black soap could be applied at least three to four times during flowering and pod formation for effective pest management. Its use is recommended as a potential low-cost, eco-friendly solution for farmers.

GUIDE TO AUTHORS

E. A. Makinde — 2026-06-30