Moroccan Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Moroccan Journal of Agricultural Sciences 7(1) March 2026

A. Editor — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Table of contents

Feasibility study of a supplemental irrigation program to secure wheat production for food sovereignty in the Saïss plain (Morocco)

Nouhaila EL FAHMY, Driss SQALLI ADOUI, Abdellah ABOUDRARE — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study assesses the feasibility of a supplemental irrigation program to secure cereal production in the Saïss plain (Morocco). In a crucial agricultural context of scarce rainfall and climate change, the main objective of this study is to evaluate the program's technical and financial feasibility. The methodology includes estimating wheat producers' willingness to pay for one cubic meter of water using a logit model, a technical analysis of production and irrigation costs, and a thorough financial analysis. The results indicate strong farmer support, with 100% approval and 92% willingness to contribute financially. Total investment is approximately 650 million dirhams, with positive profitability indicators (Internal Rate of Return of approximately 11%, Net Present Value of 708 million dirhams and payback period of seven years), confirming the project's feasibility. Implementing the program could significantly strengthen food security and economic development in the region.

Keywords: Cereal value chain, food security, feasibility study, Saïss plain, Morocco

Evaluation of soil physical properties under different land uses in semi-arid Nigeria

Sufiyanu SANI, Abdullahi MUSA, Aliyu ABDULKADIR — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Soil physical properties are vital indicators of soil health and land productivity, particularly in semi-arid regions where soil degradation is a critical concern. This study evaluated the influence of different land use systems such as grazing, orchard, and irrigation on soil physical properties at Koza Integrated Farms, Maiadua Local Government Area, Katsina State, Nigeria. The investigation focused on key parameters such as soil texture, bulk density (BD), particle density (PD), porosity, organic carbon (OC), pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and structural stability index (SSI). Composite soil samples were collected and analyzed using standard laboratory procedures. Descriptive statistics showed that soils in the area are predominantly sandy, with an average sand content of 91%, silt 6.8%, and clay 2.7%. Bulk density ranged from 1.34 to 1.94 g/cm³, with grazing lands recording the highest compaction. Porosity was inversely related to BD, averaging 38.6%, and EC ranged from 0.01 to 1.07 dS/m. The mean pH of 6.41 indicates a slightly acidic to neutral soil environment. Organic carbon was moderate, with a mean of 1.29%, while SSI values indicated moderate aggregate stability. Correlation analysis showed significant interdependence among parameters. Bulk density and porosity had a strong negative correlation, while clay content was positively correlated with SSI, confirming that finer particles improve structural stability. Grazing lands exhibited the most deteriorated soil properties, including high compaction and salinity, likely due to overgrazing and animal waste deposition. In contrast, orchard and irrigated lands displayed better physical conditions, attributed to organic inputs and less soil disturbance. The findings underscore the need for sustainable land use management to prevent further soil degradation. Practices such as rotational grazing, organic amendments, conservation tillage, and agroforestry were recommended to enhance soil structure and fertility. Monitoring soil health indicators and providing farmer training were also identified as essential components for effective soil conservation. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence on the impact of land use on soil health in semi-arid regions and provides practical, location-specific recommendations for improving soil quality. These interventions are crucial for sustaining agricultural productivity and mitigating land degradation under climate-sensitive conditions.

Keywords: Soil Physical Properties, Land uses, Irrigation, Grazing, Orchard, Semiarid agriculture, Katsina State, Nigeria

Effect of tree density in an Acacia auriculiformis-based agroforestry system on rotational food crop yields and on soil fertility parameters

Sun, 11 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study compares the effect of four different Acacia auriculiformis tree densities in an alley-cropping agroforestry system (AFS) on food crop yields and some properties of a ferralitic soil. The aims is to identify the one that would allow for settled agriculture. The study was conducted in Yangambi, DR Congo, and lasted eight successive growing seasons. The design consisted of four plots of 1042, 1250, 1563 and 2083 trees per hectare, arranged in corridors of 10 m, 8 m, 6 m, and 4 m respectively, as well as a control field without trees. This design was replicated six times on ground. Food crops were grown in the corridors in two rotational cycles, each cycle alternating rice, peanuts, maize, and cowpeas crops. The results show that the AFS corridors had a positive impact on yields for all crops. However, the impact of tree density was noted only in cowpea. Acacia auriculiformis also had an acidifying effect on the soil as pH values significantly decreased, particularly in the 6 m corridors. It increased soil carbon, particularly in the 4 m, 6 m, and 8 m corridors, but had no impact on nitrogen. We suggest that the experiment be repeated after 7 years of age to study the long-term impact.

Keywords: Acacia auriculiformis, agroforestry corridor, crop yield, pH, organic carbon

Geospatial assessment of micronutrient status in agricultural soils of Kura, Kano state, Nigeria

Sani UBA UMAR, Aliyu ABDULKADIR, Fatima UMARS, Bala MUHAMMAD, B.M. IBRAHIM — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

The sustainable management of soil fertility, particularly micronutrients, is critical for enhancing crop productivity and nutritional quality in West Africa. This study employed geostatistical techniques and a Geographic Information System (GIS) to assess the status and spatial distribution of available Zinc (Zn), Copper (Cu), Manganese (Mn), and Iron (Fe), alongside soil pH, across 70 sampling points in Kura Local Government Area (LGA), Kano State, Nigeria. Descriptive statistics revealed high coefficients of variation (CV) for all micronutrients, indicating significant spatial heterogeneity and the inadequacy of uniform fertilizer application. Semivariogram analysis confirmed a strong to moderate spatial dependence for all elements, allowing for reliable spatial interpolation via Kriging. The resulting maps delineated distinct zones of deficiency, sufficiency, and potential excess for each micronutrient. While mean values suggested generally high levels of Fe, Mn, and Zn, the spatial maps highlighted localized areas where targeted management is essential to prevent both deficiency-induced yield loss and potential toxicity. The findings underscore the necessity of adopting Precision Agriculture strategies in Kura LGA, providing a critical foundation for developing site-specific nutrient management plans to optimize crop production and soil health.

Keywords: Geostatistics, kriging, precision agriculture, DTPA extraction, spatial interpolation, nutrient mapping

Assessment of some heavy metals from municipal wastewater used for irrigation in Nigeria

Sufiyanu SANI, Mariya MUHAMMAD ABUBAKAR, Aliyu ABDULKADIR — Fri, 16 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Heavy metal contamination in soil and accumulation in cultivated vegetables is currently a serious and disturbing ecological problem prevalent throughout the world most especially in areas with water scarcity. The study was carried out to assesses the presence of heavy metals from a municipal waste water source used for irrigation in Unguwar kudu, Dutsinma Katsina state Nigeria. This study assessed the quality of irrigation water in terms of pH, electrical conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and heavy metal concentrations (cadmium, lead, nickel, and chromium). The results showed that the water is slightly alkaline (mean pH 7.5) and has medium salinity (mean EC 1.17 dS/m), which may affect sensitive crops. TDS levels were within permissible limits (mean 845 mg/L). However, heavy metal analysis revealed significant contamination: cadmium (mean 0.0226 mg/L) and lead (mean 0.9008 mg/L) levels exceeded WHO/FAO limits by 2-18 times, posing risks to soil, crops, and human health. Chromium levels were also high (mean 1.626 mg/L), more than 16 times the permissible limit, while nickel levels were relatively low (mean 0.0278 mg/L). These findings suggest potential health and environmental risks associated with using this water for irrigation, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and mitigation strategies.

Keywords: Heavy metals, irrigation water, contamination, savannah

Growth and yield performance of Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) genotypes under varying periods of weed interference in Nigeria

Emmanuel Abraham SHITTU, T.T. BELLO, S. RUFA'I, M.S BASSEY — Sun, 18 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a climate-resilient, underutilized legume with high nutritional value. However, weed interference during critical growth stages remains a major limitation to its productivity. This study assessed the critical period of weed interference in two Bambara groundnut genotypes (cream round and brown round) under Sudan Savanna conditions during the 2020 wet season. The experiment, conducted at two locations (BUK and Guringawa), used a randomized complete block design with three replications. Treatments involved maintaining plots either weed-free or weed-infested for 3, 6, 9, and 12 weeks after sowing (WAS), followed by the opposite condition until harvest. Weed interference had significant effects on multiple agronomic traits. At BUK, plots kept weed-infested for 12 WAS recorded the highest weed cover score (4.83) and weed dry biomass (61.3 g/m²), while weed-free plots for 12 WAS had the lowest weed cover (1.00) and biomass (14.5 g/m²), and the highest weed control index (52.0%). Similarly, leaf area index peaked at 5.6 under 12 WAS weed-free conditions but dropped sharply to 0.5 when infested for the same duration. Stand count at harvest rose to 25,9 plants ha⁻¹ under 12 WAS weed-free but declined to 5,6 plants ha⁻¹ under prolonged infestation. Yield traits followed the same pattern: total dry matter, number of pods, and kernel yield per plant were highest in 12 WAS weed-free plots (19.4 g, 33.8 pods, 25.7 g, respectively) and lowest when weed-infested for 12 WAS (3.36 g, 11.6 pods, 12.7 g, respectively). Genotypic effects were largely non-significant, though cream and brown types differed slightly in vigor and leaf number at BUK. Maintaining a weed-free period of at least 12 WAS significantly enhanced Bambara groundnut growth, physiological traits, and yield components, underscoring the need for early and sustained weed control in semi-arid farming systems.

Key words: Bambara groundnut, genotypes, critical period, weed interference, susceptibility

Enhancing tomato productivity using compost, plant, and poultry litter teas in the Sudan Savanna Ecology of Nigeria

M.I. SHEHU, E. A. SHITTU, M.A. HUSSAINI, B.M. AUWALU — Mon, 19 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

The global demand for safe, healthful food is accelerating the shift toward organic farming systems that enhance crop productivity while protecting the environment and mitigating climate change. To support this transition, a field experiment was conducted to assess the effects of plant, compost, and poultry litter teas on the growth, yield, and fruit quality of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) during the 2017/2018 dry season in the Sudan Savanna agroecological zone of Nigeria. The experiment was replicated three times and laid out in a randomized complete block design, with three manure teas applied at 100, 200, and 300 ml m⁻², alongside inorganic fertilizer and a no-fertilizer control. The application of inorganic fertilizer consistently produced the highest values across all parameters, including plant height (51.1 cm), leaf area (65.0 cm²), chlorophyll content (SPAD 94.5), and total yield (21,291 kg ha⁻¹). Among organic amendments, the application of 300 ml m⁻² compost tea was the most effective, significantly enhancing key traits such as plant height (58.2 cm), leaf area (58.2 cm²), chlorophyll content (SPAD 84.4), fruit yield (16,001 kg ha⁻¹), and earliness to flowering (28 days). It also improved physiological metrics, fruit size, and Brix content (3.7-3.8%). Plant tea followed closely, while poultry litter tea had moderate effects compared to the no-fertilizer (control) that consistently gave the least performance across all parameters. These results affirm compost tea’s potential as a sustainable, nutrient-efficient alternative to inorganic fertilizer for enhancing dry-season tomato production in semi-arid regions.

Keywords: Organic nutrient solution, Compost tea, Tomato productivity, Nutrient management, Dry-season agriculture

Competitive interactions between wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) and rigid brome (Bromus rigidus Roth): a replacement series study

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Bromus rigidus is increasingly recognized as a problematic weed species in cereal production of Mediterranean areas, especially under conservation agriculture practices. A better understanding of its interaction with wheat may provide new options for sustainable management. To this end, this study aims to evaluate the competitive interactions between this weed and four soft wheat varieties (Remax, Faiza, Bandera and Guadalette) in a controlled pot experiment using a replacement series design. Results showed clear differences in morphological and ecophysiological traits between the two species and among wheat cultivars. In fact, wheat exhibited a superior competitive advantage, based on relative yield and competitiveness ratio values. This performance may be explained by specific growth and physiological parameters, particularly plant height, leaf area, stomatal conductance, chlorophyll and nitrogen content. This clear competitive superiority is more remarkable for the Remax and Faiza varieties than for Bandera or Guadalette. Indeed, while Faiza and Remax showed a suppressive profile towards B. rigidus, the other two varieties showed a less aggressive but more tolerant character, which allowed them to maintain their yield without necessarily affecting the weed growth. Overall, these findings provide the opportunity to choose these aggressive wheat genotypes as a cost-effective strategy, especially under high infestation of brome or areas of herbicide resistance cases.

Keywords: Wheat, rigid brome, competition, replacement series

Comparative assessment of soil fertility status in irrigated and rainfed agricultural systems in northern Nigeria

Sani UMAR UBA, Dahiru WAKILI HABIB, Muawiyya SIYUDI ABDULMALIK — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 00:17:36 +0200

Soil fertility decline constrains agricultural productivity in sub-Saharan Africa, yet comparative assessments of fertility status between irrigated and rainfed systems in Northern Nigeria remain limited. This study compared soil fertility status between irrigated and rainfed agricultural lands in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area, Kano State, to identify system-specific fertility constraints and inform targeted nutrient management strategies. Sixty soil samples (30 from each system) were collected using systematic grid sampling (200 m × 200 m) at 0-20 cm depth. Soil texture, pH, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), exchangeable bases (Ca, Mg, K, Na), exchangeable acidity (EA), and effective cation exchange capacity (ECEC) were analyzed. Micronutrients (Zn, Cu, Mn, Fe) were extracted using DTPA and analyzed by atomic absorption spectrophotometry. Fertility status was classified using Esu (1991) rating criteria for Nigerian Savanna soils. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and independent samples t-tests. Both systems exhibited sandy loam texture (mean sand 60.7-60.8%, clay 15.9-16.2%) with slightly acidic pH (6.05-6.15). Critical fertility limitations were identified in both systems: organic carbon (0.68-0.76%, rated LOW), total nitrogen (0.06-0.07%, LOW), available phosphorus (4.03-4.05 mg/kg, LOW), and effective cation exchange capacity (4.26-4.45 cmol(+)/kg, LOW). Exchangeable bases showed medium ratings: Ca (2.61-2.74 cmol(+)/kg), Mg (0.75 cmol(+)/kg), and K (0.22-0.27 cmol(+)/kg). Exchangeable acidity was significantly higher in irrigated (0.65 cmol(+)/kg) than rainfed systems (0.39 cmol(+)/kg). Micronutrients were rated HIGH in both systems: Zn (16.5-18.9 mg/kg), Cu (2.50-2.79 mg/kg), Mn (31.6-34.1 mg/kg), and Fe (177.0-192.4 mg/kg), indicating no micronutrient deficiencies. Both irrigated and rainfed systems face similar critical macronutrient constraints (OC, N, P) and low nutrient retention capacity (ECEC). Irrigation did not markedly improve macronutrient fertility status but significantly increased soil acidity. The low phosphorus availability despite high iron concentrations suggests P fixation by iron oxides. Integrated soil fertility management focusing on organic matter restoration, phosphorus availability enhancement, and nitrogen supplementation is essential for both systems. Micronutrient fertilization is not a priority.

Keywords: Soil fertility, irrigation, rainfed agriculture, tropical soils, Esu rating, Nigeria, organic carbon, phosphorus deficiency, micronutrients

Evaluation of biosecurity measures as a factor influencing antimicrobial resistance in semi-intensive poultry farms in Kinshasa

Branham KITOKO, Noël MWAYAKALA, Elidai MAKANA, Marissa KOMBA, Joseph MABI — Sun, 15 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

The poultry farming sector constitutes a major pillar of food security and economic growth in several African countries. However, the persistence of various pathological conditions hampers the development of this sector, leading to substantial socio-economic and public health losses. In response to these multiple challenges, the implementation of new strategies aimed at preventing infections in poultry farms and reducing antimicrobial use is critically important. This study aimed to assess the current status of biosecurity practices as a factor influencing antimicrobial resistance in three peri-urban areas of the city of Kinshasa. Based on a survey conducted among poultry farmers, it was found that only 24% of farms had a footbath at the farm entrance, and 16% were equipped with handwashing or disinfection facilities. The presence of rodents and flies (80%), cockroaches (60%), lizards (40%), and wild birds (20%) was reported. The main diseases encountered included coccidiosis (30%), colibacillosis (28%), Newcastle disease (18%), avian pox (10%), Gumboro disease (8%), and Marek’s disease (6%). Overall, the results of this study demonstrated a low level of implementation of biosecurity measures related to farm personnel, visitors, animals, as well as materials and equipment.

Keywords: Biosecurity, resistance, antimicrobial, poultry, semi-intensive

Determination of ideal brooding temperature for broilers performance and welfare

Farouq MOHAMMED JIBRIL, Aliyu ABDULKADIR, Muazu SALISU — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:45:36 +0200

This study explores the determination of optimal brooding temperatures for broilers to enhance growth performance and welfare. Using a completely randomized design (CRD), 60-day-old broiler chicks were assigned to four different treatments: charcoal heat, electric bulb heat, ambient temperature, and local lamp combined with ambient temperature. Each treatment was replicated three times. Key parameters, including weight gain, feed conversion ratio (FCR), and mortality rates, were assessed over four weeks using JMP 15.0.0 statistical software. Results indicated significant variations among treatments in temperature stability, growth performance, and feed efficiency. Charcoal heat, maintaining an average temperature of 32.6°C, achieved the highest weight gain (944 g) and the most efficient FCR (1.28). The electric bulb heat source maintained an average temperature of 30.4°C, producing comparable but slightly lower outcomes in weight gain (915 g) and FCR (1.41). In contrast, ambient temperature conditions recorded the lowest average temperature (25.89°C), resulting in poor growth performance, the highest FCR (1.74), and the highest mortality rate (33.3%). The local lamp combined with ambient temperature achieved moderate results, reflecting intermediate performance metrics. These findings underscore the critical role of temperature regulation in broiler production, particularly during the early brooding phase when chicks are most vulnerable to temperature stress. Optimal temperatures between 30°C and 33°C, achieved with charcoal or electric bulb heating, significantly enhanced growth and feed efficiency while minimizing mortality. This study provides actionable insights for small- and large-scale poultry operations, particularly in resource-limited settings, where access to electricity or advanced heating systems may be constrained. The results emphasize the need for sustainable and efficient heating methods to improve broiler productivity and welfare in diverse farming conditions.

Keywords: Broilers, Brooding, Chicken, Temperature, welfare

Biological control: A sustainable strategy against invasive citrus snail

Khaoula BELARAIBI, Nabil ERRABHI, Rachid AKKI — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

Snails are polyphagous pests that cause damage to several crops worldwide. They feed on the leaves and fruits of this crop and transmit certain fungal diseases. The present study aims to elucidate the protective role of the biological control approach against invasive snails. Citriculture in Morocco, particularly in the Gharb region, faces several phytosanitary problems, including snails. Three species, Theba pisana, Helix aspersa, and Eobonia vermiculata, have been associated with citrus orchards in this region. The current practice to combat these pests predominantly rely on molluscicidal products containing active ingredients such as metaldehyde, abamectin, indoxacarb, chlorfluazuron, and spiromesifen. However, due to the negative effects of chemical control on the environment and non-target species, these products are not a sustainable primary strategy for managing snail invasions. Effective management of invasive snails requires an integrated pest management (IPM) approach, such as i) cultural methods like manual collection from the trunk and branches, ii) Physical control using barrier traps that can be optionally combined with mineral oil, or attractants, and iii) Biological control can be achieved through the use of parasitic nematodes or plant extracts. Promising biological agents such as essential oil extracted from Citrus limon zest, aqueous extract of thyme, as well as lupin extract nanoparticles coated with copper sulfate and starch, which have demonstrated 100% mortality and inhibited egg laying.

Keywords: Invasive Snails, Theba pisana, Eobonia vermiculata, Citrus orchards, Biological controls, Sustainable

Rodents in North African agriculture: Ecological roles, economic impacts, and management strategies

Rachid AKKI, Nabil ERRABHI — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 23:25:54 +0200

Invasive rodents pose a major threat to food security, public health, and the sustainability of agricultural systems. Their high adaptability, rapid reproduction, and opportunistic behavior make them formidable pests for crops and food stocks, particularly in semi-arid regions such as Morocco. Citrus species (Merione shawi and Gerbillus campestris) and commensal species (Rattus norvigecus, Rattus rattus, and Mus musculus) induces significant damages in the field, while anthropophilic rodents that have the ability to live also close to man settlements cause serious damage and contaminate stored product. The potential of damage of these species is generally linked to their biology, in particular a high reproductive potential and a reproduction cycle compatible with the agricultural cycle, which leads to outbreaks. This article presents a comprehensive overview of integrated rodent management strategies, encompassing preventive measures, physical control methods, chemical interventions, biological controls, and monitoring systems. Effective rodent management requires a multifaceted approach that combines cultural practices, habitat modification, and targeted control measures while minimizing environmental impact and ensuring human safety.

Keywords: Rodents, Rodenticides, IPM, Ecologically-Based Rodent Management

Efficacy of selected botanical extracts against Spodoptera frugiperda infestation on maize under screen house conditions

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 00:07:11 +0200

A screen house experiment was conducted to evaluate the efficacy of methanolic extracts of selected botanicals against Spodoptera frugiperda infestation on maize. The treatments comprised methanolic seed extracts of Khaya senegalensis, Hyptis suaveolens, and Azadirachta indica, as well as their mixtures (in 50:50 ratios) at a concentration of 2.5% (w/v). Emamectin benzoate served as the standard check, while untreated plants acted as control. Treatments were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design replicated four times. Results showed that methanolic extracts of neem and combinations of Hyptis + Neem and Khaya + Neem significantly reduced percentage incidence, foliar damage severity, and larval population of S. frugiperda, resulting in higher dry matter yield of 3.25, 3.85, and 2.95 t ha^-1, respectively, comparable to standard check (3.90 t ha^-1). These findings highlight the potential of methanolic botanical extracts, particularly neem and its mixtures, as promising components of an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for controlling fall armyworm in maize. Field evaluation of these extracts may have to be conducted for further evaluation and confirmation.

Keywords: Spodoptera frugiperda, methanolic extracts, botanicals, neem, mixtures, maize, IPM

Molluscicidal potential of Bacillus thuringiensis and endogenous bacteria against Theba pisana

Rachid AKKI, Rachid LAHLALI, Ismail RAICH — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 11:19:53 +0200

In an agricultural context where the chemical control of pest gastropods is showing its limits, due to the environmental impact of molluscicides and the emergence of resistance, this study explored sustainable biological alternatives. The objective was to identify and characterize the molluscicidal potential of bacterial strains against two major pests in Morocco, Theba pisana and Helix aspersa. The methodology was based on the isolation of bacterial strains from snail cadavers, followed by laboratory bioassays to evaluate their efficacy in comparison with a commercial strain, Bacillus thuringiensis var. kurstaki (BT). Virulence was quantified by measuring mortality rates and calculating the median lethal dose (LD50). Potential mechanisms of action were investigated by analyzing the activity of key enzymes (proteases, chitinases, lipases). The results revealed a remarkable efficacy of the BT strain against Theba pisana, causing 100% mortality within 21 days, with a calculated LD50 of 1.5×10⁸ CFU/ml. The endogenous strains, identified as Pseudomonas iridis (B9) and Enterobacter aerogenes (B3), showed more moderate efficacy against the same snail. Regarding Helix aspersa, only the BT strain demonstrated lethal activity, although it was limited (34% mortality). The investigation of the mechanisms of action highlighted distinct enzymatic profiles: high protease activity for BT, a pronounced chitinase activity for E. aerogenes, and significant protease activity for P. iridis. Although promising, these laboratory results do not guarantee success in field conditions, where environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and UV radiation can affect bacterial viability. It is therefore imperative to validate their efficacy in the field, develop protective formulations, and conduct safety studies before integrating these agents into sustainable control strategies.

Keywords: Biological control, Theba pisana, Helix aspersa, Bacillus thuringiensis, Pseudomonas iridis, Enterobacter aerogenes, Enzymatic activity

Economic performance of fish farms: an analysis by the profit function of fish farmers in Republic of Benin

Bienvenu KAKPO, Ygué Patrice ADEGBOLA — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study investigates the economic performance of different types of fish farms in Benin, using the profit function approach to avoid the simultaneous equation bias associated with production functions. Data was collected from 649 fish farmers on input and output prices, production factors, and socio-economic characteristics. The Translog specification of the normalized profit function was estimated using Zellner's SURE method. The results suggest that the profit of fish farmers of different farm types is influenced by the price of the variable inputs they use. Fingerlings are the most limiting factor in fish production, given their indirect elasticity on production. The implications of the findings suggest that the profit of different types of fish farms can be improved by enhancing the ability of fish farmers to manage variable and fixed costs to maximise profits. Additionally, research should develop an innovative strategy to make fingerlings and feeds more available and accessible to fish farmers.

Keywords: Profit, type of fish farmer, demand for inputs, elasticities

Enhancing the fatty acid profile of camel milk dairy products through the incorporation of different carob forms

Abir OMRANI, Amel SBOUI, Mohamed DBARA, Slah ZAIDI, Mohamed HAMMADI — Mon, 16 Mar 2026 00:00:00 +0100

This study investigated the effect of incorporating different carob forms on the fatty acid profile of camel milk dairy products. Camel milk yogurts were fortified with carob syrup or carob powder, while camel milk cheese was coagulated using unripe (green) carob extract. Fatty acid profiles of the fortified products were compared with their respective controls. Lipids were extracted, converted to fatty acid methyl esters, and analyzed by GC–MS. In all products, saturated fatty acids (SFA) were predominant, followed by monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Carob incorporation induced a significant reduction in total SFA, mainly palmitic (C16:0) and stearic (C18:0) acids, accompanied by a significant increase in MUFA, particularly oleic acid (C18:1 cis-9), in both yogurts and cheese. PUFA levels remained stable across treatments. The magnitude of these changes depended on the form of carob and the processing technology, with carob syrup exerting the strongest effect in yogurts and unripe carob extract influencing cheese lipid composition through coagulation. Overall, carob-derived ingredients improved the nutritional lipid quality of camel milk dairy products by favorably modulating the SFA–MUFA balance without altering essential fatty acids.

Keywords: Camel milk, Carob, Yogurt, Cheese, Fatty acid profile, Nutritional quality, Functional dairy products

Ethnomedicinal survey of plants used in management of common diseases in Delta State, Nigeria

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 12:10:31 +0200

This study conducted an ethnomedicinal survey of medicinal plants used for the management of common diseases in Umunede, Ika North-East Local Government Area, Delta State, Nigeria. The study investigated common diseases in the community, medicinal plants used in their management. Purposive sampling was used to select fifty (50) respondents from the community. A structured questionnaire and oral interview were used to obtain data for the study. Twenty-nine (29) medicinal plant species were identified and documented in the study area. The results of the study show that diseases such as malaria, cough, diarrhea, dysentery, respiratory infections and joint pains are common in the community. The study also reveals that Umunede residents still depend on traditional medicine in the management of common diseases in the community despite the availability of modern medical facilities in the community. Quantitative values were calculated in the study, which include use value, fidelity level, and informant consensus factor. The study also highlights the need for taxonomic description of medicinal plant resources to avoid the loss of indigenous knowledge of medicinal plants in the community. The results of this study provide baseline data for future ethnomedicinal and pharmacological studies in Delta State and Nigeria at large.

Keywords: Ethnomedicine, medicinal plants, indigenous knowledge, traditional medicine, Umunede, Nigeria