Optimization of fertilizer application and transplanting density across agro-ecological zones and cropping seasons for black glutinous rice cultivation
Tran Van Quang, Tran Thi Huyen, Do Van Duc, Tran Hoang Lan, Chu Duc Ha, Nguyen Van Loc*
Faculty of Agronomy, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy, Gia Lam, Hanoi, 131000, Vietnam
Crops Research and Development of Institute, Vietnam National University of Agriculture, Trau Quy, Gia Lam, Hanoi, 131000, Vietnam
Faculty of Agricultural Technology, University of Engineering and Technology, Vietnam National University Hanoi, Xuan Thuy, Cau Giay, Hanoi, 131000, Vietnam
Abstract
This study aimed to optimize fertilizer application and transplanting density for the black glutinous rice to enhance its growth and yield potential. This study evaluated the effects of different fertilizer rates (50kgN-50kgP₂O₅-50kgK₂O, 70kgN-70kgP₂O₅-70kgK₂O, 90kgN-90kgP₂O₅-90kgK₂O, and 110kgN-110kgP₂O₅-110kgK₂O /ha) and transplanting densities (30, 35, 40, and 45 hills/m²) on the growth, yield, and resistance to pests and diseases of black glutinous rice (ĐH8). The experiment was conducted over two cropping seasons including Summer (CPS1) and Spring (CPS2) across three regions: the Red River Delta, the Northern Mountainous Region, and the North Central Region. Experimental plots were randomized, with main plots (fertilizer levels) divided into sub-plots (transplanting densities). Results indicated that moderate fertilizer application (70kgN-70kgP₂O₅-70kgK₂O /ha) combined with medium transplanting densities (35-40 hills/m2) generally led to the best agronomic performance, optimizing yield without significant pest and disease pressure. However, higher fertilizer application levels and denser transplanting conditions resulted in increased susceptibility to pests and diseases, such as brown planthopper and sheath blight, particularly in the CPS1. The study’s findings offer practical guidance to improve crop management techniques, support sustainable rice farming, and contribute to better economic benefit for black glutinous rice producers.
Submitted: 05/04/2025 | Revised: 14/06/2025 | Accepted: 16/06/2025
Pages: 729-736 | Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p11
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Quantification of the cyanogen Dhurrin at high levels in sugar cane varieties and its correlation as a precursor of ethyl carbamate in cachaças
Maria das Graças Cardoso, Wilder Douglas Santiago, Guilherme Vieira Pimentel, Pamela Aparecida dos Santos, Maria Augusta Lanza de Sá e Melo Marques, Antonia Isadora Fernandes, Danubia Aparecida de Carvalho Selvati Rezende, Alexandre Rezende Teixeira, Wilton Amaral dos Santos, Ana Maria de Resende Machado, Carolina Salles Freire, David Lee Nelson
Department of Chemistry, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Brazil
Department of Agriculture, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Brazil
Department of Plant Pathology, Federal University of Lavras (UFLA), Lavras, Brazil
Department of Chemistry, Federal Center for Technological Education of Minas Gerais (CEFET-MG), Belo Horizonte, Brazil
Postgraduate Program in Biofuels, Federal University of Vale de Jequitinhonha and Mucuri, Diamantina, Brazil
Abstract
Cachaça, a genuinely Brazilian spirit, contains ethanol, water, and various secondary compounds, along with potential contaminants such as ethyl carbamate (EC), which can depreciate product quality. EC can form from cyanogenic glycosides like Dhurrin, present in sugarcane. This study aimed to quantify Dhurrin in methanolic extracts using High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC), evaluate its variation across different sugarcane varieties, and relate it to the presence or absence of the sugarcane tip (topping level), as well as correlate it with EC concentrations in cachaça. Six sugarcane varieties were evaluated: RB867515, CTC2, CTC11, CTC9003, IACSP95-5000, and SP80-1842. For each, two plant fractions were studied: Po (stalks with tips, including apical meristem and immature leaves) and Co (mature stalks without the tip). Methanolic extracts from these fractions were analyzed to determine Dhurrin concentration, and cachaças were produced from each fraction for EC and ethanol analysis. The results showed that sugarcane tips (Po) contained higher levels of Dhurrin and led to significantly higher EC concentrations in the resulting cachaças. This is likely due to the biochemical composition of the tip, particularly the higher amino acid content in the apical meristem, which favors EC formation. These findings highlight the importance of proper harvesting practices specifically, the removal of sugarcane tips to reduce EC levels in the final beverage.
Submitted: 12/04/2025 | Revised: 28/05/2025 | Accepted: 10/06/2025
Pages 737-747 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p13
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Germination and initial growth of half-sibling families of Pinus pseudostrobus Lind. outstanding in resin production
A. Antonio-Bautista, H.J. Muñoz-Flores, D. Castillo-Quiroz*, J.T. Sáenz-Reyes, R. Barrera-Ramírez, A. Rueda-Sánchez
Departamento de Fitomejoramiento, Universidad Autónoma Agraria Antonio Narro, Calzada Antonio Narro #1923, C.P. 25315, Buenavista, Saltillo, Coahuila, México
Campo Experimental Uruapan, Centro de Investigación Regional Pacífico Centro CIRPAC, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias (INIFAP). Av. Latinoamericana #1101, Col. Revolución, CP. 60150, Uruapan, Michoacán, México
Campo Experimental Saltillo. Centro de Investigación Regional Noreste CIRNE, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias INFAP. Carretera Saltillo-Zacatecas km 342+119 No. 9515, Col. Hacienda de Buenavista, C.P. 25315, Saltillo, Coah. Mexico
Campo Experimental Centro Altos de Jalisco. Centro de Investigación Regional Pacífico Centro CIRPAC, Instituto Nacional de Investigaciones Forestales, Agrícolas y Pecuarias INIFAP. Km. 8, Carretera Libre Tepatitlán-Lagos de Moreno, Av. Biodiversidad # 2470 CP. 47600 Tepatitlán de Morelos, Jalisco, México
Abstract
The establishment of commercial forest plantations necessitates the use of high-quality genetic seed and the selection of superior individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the germination ability including germination percentage, germination velocity index, and germination rate as well as the initial growth characteristics (height and root collar diameter) of seedlings from 23 half-sibling families of Pinus pseudostrobus Lindl., selected for their exceptional resin production, across three altitudinal gradients. Half-sibling seeds of P. pseudostrobus were sown in 310 cm3 plastic-coated containers filled with a 1:1:1:1 substrate mixture of pine bark, Canadian sphagnum peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite, supplemented with Multicote® fertiliser at a concentration of 5 kg/m3. Each family was represented by four replicates, or experimental units, consisting of 25 completely randomised seeds. The evaluated variables were as follows: 1) germination percentage (PG), 2) germination vigour (VG) through the index of germination velocity (IVG), 3) germination rate (TG), 4) plant height (A), and 5) diameter of the root collar (DCR). Significant differences (p < 0.05) were found in the germination percentage and index of germination velocity between altitudinal gradients and between families in all measured variables. Our results suggest that germplasm collection should be performed within a gradient between 2,200 and 2,400 m, where seeds present the most intraspecific variation and the highest germination percentage, height, and root collar diameter.
Submitted: 16/04/2025 | Revised: 21/05/2025 | Accepted: 16/07/2025
Pages 748-757 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p15
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The effect of shading and vermicompost on the growth, yield, antioxidant activity, and flavonoid content of two Medinilla species
Intan Christin Dullah, Sulandjari, Edi Purwanto, and Parjanto*
Doctoral Program of Agricultural Scienc, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jl. Ir. Sutami 36A, Surakarta 57126, Central Java, Indonesia
Departement of Agrotechnology, Faculty of Agriculture, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Jl. Ir. Sutami 36A, Surakarta 57126, Central java, Indonesia
ORCID ID: 0009-0004-9681-5171
Abstract
One of the medicinal plants with significant beneficial potential is Medinilla, locally known as parijoto in Java and bunga trijata in Bali. This plant is originally from the Philippines. Medinilla fruit is rich in bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, anthocyanins, antioxidants, flavonoids, glycosides, saponins, and tannins. This study aims to investigate the effects of cultivation techniques and microclimate conditions on the secondary metabolite content, especially antioxidants and flavonoids of Medinilla cultivated outside its natural habitat. This study utilized plant materials from two species, Medinilla speciosa and Medinilla verrucosa. The experiment employed a Nested Factorial Randomized Complete Block Design with three factors: Medinilla species, shading level, and vermicompost dose. This study also examined the effects of shading and vermicompost (kascing fertilizer) treatments on Medinilla speciosa and Medinilla verrucosa over a 12-month period. The results demonstrated that 75% shading significantly suppressed plant growth and flavonoid content, while enhancing antioxidant activity. Medinilla verrucosa exhibited more dominant adaptive responses to shading conditions. In contrast, vermicompost application did not improve growth, flavonoid levels, or antioxidant capacity in either species.
Submitted: 16/05/2025 | Revised: 09/07/2025 | Accepted: 11/07/2025
Pages 758-764 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p34
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Modeling the performance of an agricultural tractor with radial and diagonal tires on a firm soil
Beethoven Gabriel Xavier Alves, Thais de Oliveira Corrêa, Rodney Ferreira Couto, Josué Gomes Delmond*, Elton Fialho dos Reis
Agricultural Engineering Department, State University of Goiás, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil
Master of Science in Agricultural Engineering - Universidade Estadual de Goiás.
Agricultural Engineering Department, State University of Goiás, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil
Doctor of Philosophy in Agricultural Engineering – State University of Goiás.
Abstract
The tractive capacity and, consequently, the operational performance of the agricultural tractor depends on the characteristics of the tires. This study aimed to model the drawbar performance of an agricultural tractor equipped with radial and diagonal tires on a firm soil track with different force demands on the drawbar. An experiment was set up using a completely randomized statistical design in a split-plot scheme. The plots were made up of two types of tires (radial and diagonal), and the subplots were made up of six different forces, to which the tractor was subjected on the drawbar (1.4, 4.5, 10.5, 15.6, 19.9, and 23.3 kN), with three replications per treatment. A load cell was used to measure traction force, a flow meter for fuel consumption, and magnetic sensors for slippage. The results showed that the type of tire did not influence the hourly fuel consumption. Higher average values for specific fuel consumption, travel speed, and power available at the tractor drawbar were obtained with radial tires, while higher slippage values were obtained with diagonal tires. The modeling of the agricultural tractor performance allowed us to infer that the evaluated tractor behaved more efficiently, in terms of energy expenditure, on firm soil when equipped with radial tires than with diagonal tires.
Submitted: 16/05/2025 | Revised: 09/07/2025 | Accepted: 11/07/2025
Pages 765-772 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p283
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Genotype and environmental interactions in Maize (Zea mays L.) across regions of India: Implications for hybrid testing locations in South Asia
Patne Nagesh, Satish Ashok Takalkar, Sagala Murali Mohan, Pulime Bhaskara Naidu, Chandappa H. Lohithaswa, Rajashekhar M. Kachapur, Prakash Kuchanur, Sudhir Kumar Injeti, Narendra Kumar Singh, Dinesh G. Kanwade, Jiban Shrestha, Bindiganavile S. Vivek*
International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT), ICRISAT Campus, Patancheru, Hyderabad - 502324, Telangana, India
University of Agricultural Sciences - Bangalore (UASB), GKVK, Campus, Bengaluru – 560065, Karnataka, India
University of Agricultural Sciences - Dharwad (UASD), Maize Research Station Dharwad – 580005, Karnataka, India
University of Agricultural Sciences - Raichur (UASR), College of Agriculture Bheemarayanagudi – 585287, Yadagiri, Karnataka, India
Acharya N G Ranga Agricultural University (ANGRAU) - Guntur, ARS Peddapuram – 533437, Andhra Pradesh, India
Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture and Technology (GBPUAT) - Pantnagar, 263145, Uttarakhand, India
Dr. Panjabrao Deshmukh Vidyapeeth, Akola, Agricultural Research Station, Buldana – 443001, Maharashtra, India
Nepal Agricultural Research Council, National Plant Breeding and Genetics Research Centre, Khumaltar, Lalitpur, Nepal
ORCID ID: 0000-0002-2492-6751
Abstract
Maize in South Asia is primarily rainfed and is particularly vulnerable to the changing climate. Defining a breeding environment (product profile/market segment) is the first key step of any breeding program. Further, identifying discriminative and representative locations for hybrid evaluation ensures efficiency and cost optimization. Therefore, this study was an extensive evaluation of elite maize hybrids across 12 locations in India to determine the G×E interactions in order to identify representative sites for CIMMYT product profiles for gaining resource efficiency while achieving enhanced genetic gains. Twenty-one promising hybrids that had been identified to be either drought-tolerant, excess moisture tolerant or heat tolerant through a stage-gate process, were planted as an Alpha lattice during the rainy season of 2017, spanning 12 locations in India. GGE biplot analysis was used to determine the top-performing hybrids and more importantly to discern the most representative environments. Hybrids VH151139 and VH131376 were found to be highly promising (and stable across locations) hybrids for grain yield in the main cropping season. Ideal test location/s for selecting superior maize hybrids were identified and ranked based on their grain-yielding and discriminating potential. The grouping of the locations based on the environmental vector biplot, identified location Meerut (E3) in the first group to represent areas prone to excess moisture. Bheemarayanagudi (E5) was in the second group representing drought-prone areas; and locations Nadiad (E6), Kalol (E9), and Wadadhe (E10) were in the third group where crops face drought and heat stress in the same season. Consequently, these locations should be consistently utilized for the selection of stable hybrids. The findings from this study have implications for similar and wider stress-prone maize growing agroecologies covering South and South-East Asia. Expanding the testing across similar regional locations will enhance the reach of CIMMYT's Asia breeding program which presently targets approximately 6.3 million hectares.
Submitted: 05/02/2025 | Revised: 12/03/2025 | Accepted: 30/05/2025
Pages: 773-783 | Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p330
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Nutritional and chemical composition of pumpkins (Cucurbita ssp.): Special focus on pumpkin seeds
Jane Muthoni* and Hussein Shimelis
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya
African Centre for Crop Improvement, University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X01, Scottsxille 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9450-1222
Abstract
Pumpkin leaves, fruits, male flowers, vine tips and seeds are all consumed as food. In most tropical countries, pumpkin is mainly grown for the mature fruit which is cooked and the flesh eaten. Pumpkins are consumed both as vegetables and medicines in many parts of the world. They have been used to treat various conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer and hepatitis, among others. Pumpkin fruit is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, macro-and micronutrients and other health-promoting chemical compounds. Pumpkins are also grown for seeds and pumpkin seed oil. The seeds are consumed directly as a snack after salting and roasting. The objective of this review was to highlight the nutritional value as well as chemical composition of the pumpkin fruit parts especially the seeds. Pumpkin seeds are rich in protein, fibres, minerals, fatty acids, phytosterols, antioxidants such as carotenoids and tocopherols as well as macro- and micronutrients. Pumpkin seed oil is rich in unsaturated fatty acids mostly oleic and linoleic fatty acids; this makes the oil healthy for human consumption. Because of their potential benefits to human health, pumpkin seeds can be considered as natural functional food. Variation in the chemical composition of pumpkin seeds among Cucurbita species and cultivars might be due to differences in soil conditions, climate, genetic factors, fertilization conditions, harvest time, post-harvest handling and the processing methods.
Submitted: 20/01/2025 | Revised: 24/02/2025 | Accepted: 08/04/2025
Pages 784-799 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p334
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Genetic parameters and selection of genotypes in rapeseed (Brassica napus) populations segregants by REML/BLUP in the Brazilian Cerrado
Willame dos Santos Candido*, Bruno Galvêas Laviola, Cíntia Gonçalves Guimarães, Erina Vitório Rodrigues, Vitor Rodrigues Nunes, João Pedro de Paula Aires Camargo
Universidade Federal de Santa Catarina – UFSC, Departamento de Fitotecnia, Florianópolis – SC, Brazil
Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária – Embrapa Agroenergia, Brasília – DF, Brazil
Universidade de Brasília - UnB, Faculdade UnB Planaltina, Planaltina - DF, Brazil
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3235-0043
Abstract
The objective of this study was to estimate genetic parameters in rapeseed populations, as well as to select individuals and families in populations with the potential for developing lines. Four experiments were conducted in the experimental field of Embrapa in 2022, evaluating populations of F2 progenies. We used a randomized block design for the experiments. Evaluations were carried out 110-120 days after planting. The traits were assessed: silique length (SL), number of siliques per plant (NSP), 1000-seed weight (W1000S), and yield (SY). Estimations of genetic parameters and the selection of individuals were carried out using the REML/BLUP method. The genetic gain through selection was estimated using the Mulamba and Mock index. Significant differences were observed among genotypes across all populations only for the NSP trait. For the W1000S and SY traits, significant differences were also found in the evaluated populations, except in the NACE-D and NACE-50 populations, respectively. However, for SL, no significant differences among genotypes were observed in the evaluated populations. The heritability ranged from 21.99% for the W1000S trait to 78.29% for NSP, in the NACE-D and NACE-61 populations, respectively. Genetic gains were high for SY and NSP in all populations, indicating that these genotypes exhibited high means for the traits. Most superior genotypes originated from the NACE-D (24.15%) and NACE-61 (22%) populations. This suggests that selection within these populations contributes to developing promising lines. The information from this study contributes to the efficiency of breeding programs conducted under tropical conditions.
Submitted: 10/02/2025 | Revised: 22/03/2025 | Accepted: 30/04/2025
Pages 800-808 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p335
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Post-harvest associations between the soluble solids content and the main dependant components related to the biometry of strawberry cv. Selva
Dayane Bortoloto da Silva*, Karina da Silva Souza, Douglas Garrio Carfane, Kassia Maria Cruz Souza, Ana Paula Leite de Lima, Sebastião Ferreira da Lima, Antonio Flávio Arruda Ferreira, Glaucia Amorim Faria
Department of Phytotechnics, Food Technology and Social Economy, São Paulo State University, Ilha Solteira 15.385-000, Brazil.
Department of Biology, São Paulo State University, Ilha Solteira 15.385-000, Brazil.
Department of Agronomy, Federal University of Mato Grosso do Sul, Chapadão do Sul. 79.560-000, Brazil
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3264-0390
Abstract
This study investigated the direct and indirect associations between soluble solids content and key biometric traits in strawberry pseudofruits (cv. Selva) using path analysis, aiming to optimize breeding strategies for improved fruit quality. The cultivar was grown in a dystrophic Red Latosol under a tropical Aw climate (dry winter, rainy summer), with an average annual rainfall of 1,340 mm and a temperature of 26°C. A total of 110 intact fruits were harvested (one per plant), stored at 10°C for 20 days, and evaluated for length, width, thickness, fresh mass, maturity (% skin coverage), and soluble solids content (°Brix). Descriptive statistics revealed significant variability: fresh mass ranged from 4.70 to 27.40 g, length from 25.86 to 60.88 mm, and soluble solids content from 3.50 to 13.69%. Path analysis identified length as the strongest positive predictor of soluble solids content (direct effect = 0.88), followed by width, maturity, and malformation, while fresh mass exhibited a notable negative effect (-0.75), likely due to solute dilution in larger fruits. Indirect effects highlighted trade-offs; for example, fresh mass and postharvest integrity negatively influenced length but positively impacted maturity. The model explained 18.46% of the variation in BRIX (residual effect = 0.80), underscoring the complexity of these interactions. These findings emphasize the potential of morphometric traits as indirect selection criteria for enhancing sweetness in breeding programs. The study advances the integration of path analysis into strawberry improvement, offering a cost-effective tool to reconcile yield and sensory quality in tropical climates.
Submitted: 10/03/2025 | Revised: 15/04/2025 | Accepted: 30/05/2025
Pages 809-815 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p348
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Production of minor tropical oil crops in Africa: Case of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)
Jane Muthoni* and Hussein Shimelis
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya
African Centre for Crop Improvement, University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X01, Scottsxille 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9450-1222
Abstract
Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.), also called simsim, benne, or gingelly, is one of the oldest cultivated oilseed crops grown for the extraction of edible oil. Although its origin is contested, it most likely originates in Asia (probably India) or eastern Africa. Sesame tolerates hot and dry conditions and grows when other crops fail. Sesame seeds have one of the highest oil contents of any seed; 37% to 63% depending on the cultivar and growing season. There has been an increase in the demand for sesame in international markets, largely due to its nutritious properties and its inclusion in a variety of foods. Despite its nutritional and high-value attributes, as well as increased demand in international markets, sesame is still an orphan crop. There is no international agricultural research center with a research mandate for sesame; consequently, the crop has attracted limited scientific research. Sesame is widely grown in warmer regions of the world, with the largest production occurring in Africa and Asia; the major producing countries include Sudan, India, Myanmar, Tanzania, Nigeria and China. In Africa, sesame is mainly grown in the northern and western regions. The crop receives little support from researchers, industry, or policymakers; as a result, it lags behind other oilseed crops in terms of genetic advancement. Its production in Africa is mainly carried out by small-scale farmers; there is minimal use of inputs, such as fertilizers and other agrochemicals. Farmers plant low-yielding local varieties and obtain seeds from informal sources, especially own-saved seeds. There are also huge pre- and post-harvest losses, especially from uneven shattering of capsules. This review looks into sesame production systems in Africa and the constraints encountered by various producers in different countries. The identified constraints might provide a basis for implementing practical and profitable interventions to enhance sesame production in Africa. Deliberate efforts should be made to improve sesame production; the crop needs policy and research attention if high production is to be achieved.
Submitted: 01/05/2025 | Revised: 09/06/2025 | Accepted: 10/06/2025
Pages 816-829 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p357
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Diversity among selected pigeon pea accessions conserved at Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI) in Kenya
Jane Muthoni*, Hussein Shimelis, D.O. Nyamongo
Kenya Agricultural and Livestock Research Organization (KALRO), Kenya
African Centre for Crop Improvement, University of KwaZulu-Natal, College of Agriculture, Engineering and Science, School of Agricultural, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Private Bag X01, Scottsxille 3209, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9450-1222
Abstract
A study was carried out in 2022-2023 at KALRO-Perkerra, Marigat in Baringo County in Kenya to regenerate, bulk and characterize pigeon pea accessions conserved in the cold- room at the Genetic Resources Research Institute (GeRRI). Three hundred and fifty-two accessions were planted although two 246 germinated and grew to maturity. Quantitative data were collected on plant height, number of primary branches per plant, number of secondary branches per plant, days from planting to 50% flowering, days from planting to first mature pod, 100-seed weight and seeds per pod. Qualitative traits recorded were plant growth habit, terminal leaflet shape, leaf hairiness, flowering pattern, pod hairiness, seed shape and base seed colour. Most of the accessions (72.36%) had an indeterminate flowering habit. Plant height ranged from 105.8 to 441.8 cm with a mean of 297.98 cm. Highest variance was found in plant height followed by days to 50% flowering and days from planting to first mature pod. There was strong and positive correlation between plant height and days to 50% flowering (0.6145), plant height and days to first mature pod (0.6091) and between days to 50% flowering and days to first mature pod (0.9940). Only the first three principal components (PCs) were significant and they explained 69.165% of total variation. These three PCs were positively and strongly correlated with plant height, number of primary branches, number of secondary branches, days to 50% flowering, days to first mature pod and seeds per pod. Clustering based on the principal components grouped the pigeon pea accessions into two major clusters. The smaller cluster consisting of 51 accessions was positively correlated to PC1. The pigeon pea accessions conserved at GeRRI have significant variability among them. This variability can be used in classification of genotypes and selection of candidate parents for breeding purposes.
Submitted: 01/05/2025 | Revised: 09/06/2025 | Accepted: 10/06/2025
Pages 830-838 | Full Text PDF| Supplementary Data xlsx| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p364
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History, manufacture, nutritional content, bioactive compounds, and health benefits of tempeh and tofu as alternative protein in Indonesia: a review
Ratnaningsih Ratnaningsih*, Nila Kusumawaty, Ade C. Iwansyah, Ervika R. N. Herawati, Dita Kristanti, Dini Ariani, Miftakhussolikhah Miftakhussolikhah, Raden C. E. Adriansyah, Michael Bawa
Research Center for Food Technology and Processing. National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN). Jl. Jogja – Wonosari Km 31.5, Yogyakarta 55861 – Indonesia
Birmingham City University, 4 Cardigan St, Birmingham B4 7RJ – UK
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7748-8479
Abstract
This article reviews the historical background, production processes, nutritional composition, bioactive compounds, and health benefits of tempeh and tofu as alternative protein sources in Indonesia. Tempeh and tofu are popular plant-based proteins integral to Indonesian cuisine for centuries, offering a sustainable and nutritious alternative to animal proteins. Tempeh, a fermented soybean product, is rich in proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals. At the same time, tofu, made from coagulated soy milk, provides a complete amino acid profile and is low in carbohydrates. The fermentation process enhances the bioavailability of nutrients in tempeh, making it a functional food with health benefits, including digestive and cardiovascular health booster and potential anti-cancer properties. Tofu, with its bioactive peptides, offers antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, contributing to overall health. This review also highlights the potential of tempeh and tofu in addressing Indonesia's growing protein needs and sustainability challenges, through innovative products promising economic and nutritional benefits.
Submitted: 01/03/2025 | Revised: 24/04/2025 | Accepted: 02/06/2025
Pages 839-852 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p381
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Economic evaluation of shoot-grafting cocoa cultivation: a profitability study in the tropical zone of Indonesia
Arifuddin Lamusa*, Al Alamsyar, Olivia Esther Caroline Rumangkang, Effendy
Department of Agriculture Economics, Agriculture Faculty of Tadulako University, Palu
ORCID ID: https://orcid.org/0009-0006-0640-8850
Abstract
Cocoa output in Indonesia has greatly decreased in recent years due to climate changes, pest and disease outbreaks and limited empowerment of improved cultivation technologies. Using cost-benefit analysis (CBA), this study will assess the profitability of cocoa farming systems using shoot-grafting in the tropical regions of Indonesia. The research, conducted in Parigi Moutong Regency, using structured questionnaires along with focus group discussions to gather data from 80 cocoa farmers. The findings show that cocoa farming systems using shoot-grafting resulted in a gross margin of IDR 9,626,383/ha/year and net farm income of IDR 8,619,717/ha/year. Average NPV was IDR 8,374,245/ha/year, and BCR was 1.99 (so that IDR 1 invested provides a benefit of IDR 1.99). A 29.56% IRR indicates strong profitability and the need of investments from conventional credit sources at slightly higher interest rates. While the system requires substantial initial investment, the results clearly indicated that shoot-grafting is a cost-effective technology that can contribute to higher household income, improved financial risk bearing and sustainable agricultural intensification.
Submitted: 01/03/2025 | Revised: 14/06/2025 | Accepted: 11/07/2025
Pages 853-859 | Full Text PDF| https://doi.org/10.21475/ajcs.25.19.07.p3688