Theses and Dissertations Collection

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://10.10.97.169:4000/handle/123456789/39

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 192

Adaptation to rainfall variability, socioeconomic factors influencing maize production in crop livestock mixed farming systems in Babati district, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Msigwa, Z. P.
Agriculture is an important source of food and economic survival of rural populations in Tanzania however farming activities are highly affected by rainfall variability which cause loss in crops and livestock yield. This study explored adaptation strategies to rainfall variability, socioeconomic factors influencing maize production in mixed farming systems. Specifically, assessed the trends in rainfall and maize production, determined the relationship between trends, identified farmers’ adaptation strategies to rainfall variability and ascertained the influence of socioeconomic factors on maize yields in the mixed farming systems. The study employed questionnaire survey method to collect household data. Focus group discussions, key informant interviews, documentary review were also conducted to complement the information. Descriptive and inferential statistical analyses were employed using MS excel and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) programs. Annual rainfall and maize yield data for the past ten years were used to study the trends and trend relationship in rainfall and maize production. Results showed increasing trends in rainfall with high inter annual variability and decreasing trends in maize production. The relationship between rainfall trend and maize production was found to be insignificant (p value = 0.927). On the adaptive capacity of the farming system to produce maize, the mixed farming system found to be efficient in adapting to rainfall variability effects with the average maize yields of 2.57 tonha-1 compared to 1.36 tonha-1 in non-mixed. Household size, farm size, the costs of pesticide, and farmers’ access to credits had a significant influence on maize production in the study area. The study recommends that education on environmental management should be done to reduce vulnerability to inter annual rainfall variability, up scaling of the crop livestock mixed farming system to other areas of Tanzania and formation of farmer managed co-operatives to assist in the provision of soft loans with affordable interest rates for meeting the costs of inputs.
Adapting coffee (Coffea Arabica, L.) production to climate change through types of seedlings and soil fertility management practices in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2024-05) Mbwambo, Suzana Gasper
In Tanzania, coffee is the second largest traditional export commodity after tobacco, accounting for 24 % of the country‘s total foreign exchange earnings. Average annual production has stagnated at about 50,000 metric tons over the past 35 years. One of the widely held reasons is climate change, manifested by high rainfall variability and decline as well as increase in temperature. Elsewhere different adaptation strategies like use of shade trees, drought tolerant coffee varieties and organic fertilizer have been proposed to deal with the effect of climate change on coffee production. However, climate change adaptation studies for coffee production in Tanzania are largely missing. An overall objective of this work was to develop agronomic techniques for adapting Coffea arabica, L. production to climate change. Specifically, the study aimed to: 1) asses coffee growers‘ perceptions on climate change; 2) asses the relationship between scientific climate change record and production records; 3) evaluate field performance of compact coffee variety under selected propagation methods and soil fertility amendment practices and 4) determine the role of type of seedling and fertilizer management practices in increasing resilient of coffee species to the changing climate. The study was undertaken in the Northern Highland zone (Kilimanjaro and Arusha regions) and Southern Highland zone (Songwe, Mbeya and Ruvuma regions), purposively selected based on the level of Arabica coffee production. First a survey was conducted to examine smallholder farmers‘ perceptions of climate change. The findings indicate that, 163 (67 %) farmers perceived climate change has been taking place in their areas (increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall); the most influential factors in their perception being level of education, farming experience and access to climatic information. Farmers‘ perceptions were also consistent with meteorological data both pointing to significant decline in rainfall and increase in temperature. Smallholder farmers have been responding to climate change through planting shade trees, use of disease-tolerant varieties, soil fertility management, and irrigation practices. A follow- up study was conducted to assess the impact of current climate change on Tanzania‘s Arabica coffee production. The findings reveal minimum temperature has been increasing at a higher rate than the maximum temperature in both zones. Increase in minimum temperature by 1°C during short rains and annual mean temperature resulted in a significant coffee production decrease in Kilimanjaro and Arusha regions by -6,041 and -4,450 tons respectively. Field experiments were also established to evaluate performance of cutting, grafting and seed propagules when combined with 75 g N. P. K tree-1, 37.5 g N. P. K +10 Kg Farmyard manure (FYM) tree-1 and 37.5 g N. P. K +20 Kg FYM tree-1. Two split plot experiments laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications were established at the two locations (Lyamungu-Hai district and Burka - Arusha district) based on the existing climatic gradient; cutting- propagated plants resulted into highest yield ranging between 1800- 3600 Kg green coffee ha-1 while grafted-propagated plants had the lowest green coffee yield (600-1700 Kg ha-1.). The fourth study utilized climatic data from Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiment under Representative Concentration Pathway 4.5 to evaluate the potential of cutting, seed and grafted seedlings in attenuating the effects of climatic conditions using Dynamic Agroforestry Coffee model. During the Near-term period (2026-2056) rainfall will increase in Kilimanjaro region at the range of 0.2-13 % while in Arusha region the increase will be 6.05-13 %. Minimum temperature is expected to increase at higher rate than maximum temperature at the range of 1.4-1.48 °C in Kilimanjaro region and in Arusha region at the range of 1.36-1.64 oC. The use of cutting, seed and grafted propagated coffee plants when combined with FYM will result into 40% 35 % and 10% yield reduction respectively. Specific Leaf Area (SLA) among the three types of seedlings also varied; 28 (cutting), 19 (Seed) and 9 (grafted). Higher SLA observed in cutting-propagated plants may affect coffee production since it is linked to high loss of water in plants. Future higher yield loss was observed with the use of inorganic fertilizer (38%) than FYM (18%) in all the three types of seedlings. Based on the above results, it can be concluded that during the last 40 years, coffee farmers from the Northern and Southern Highlands zone of Tanzania have experienced increase in temperature and decrease in rainfall. Rise in minimum temperature and decline in long rains has significantly affected coffee production in the Northern Highlands zone. Similar to the historical period, minimum temperature is expected to increase at the higher rate than maximum temperature in the Northern Highlands zone during the Near-term period. Integrated nutrients sources are able to provide sufficient nutrients to the three types of seedlings as the recommended rates of inorganic fertilizer. Yield of cutting propagated plants under the age of four years if established at the same time with seeds and grafted propagated plants is significantly higher than that of its counterpart. However, grafted propagated plants are more resilient to climate change. It is therefore recommended that, integrated soil fertility management (37.5 g N.P.K +10 Kg FYM) tree-1 to be used as one of the adaptation strategies because apart from providing nutrients to the coffee plants the package also helps in improving water retention properties of the soil. In addition, seedling distribution should be location specific, with cuttings-propagated plants being distributed in areas with rainfall above 1200 mm year-1. The findings hold significant policy implications for enhancing coffee production in regions affected by climate change. Policymakers should enhance timely and accurate weather information delivery along with developing institutions responsible for education and extension services provision. Multiplication and adoption of improved coffee varieties has to be enhanced and promoted by the policymaker. By promoting adoption of improved coffee varieties policymakers can enhance farmers' adaptive capacity and reduce the vulnerability of coffee production to climate-related risks. Future studies will focus on monitoring the response of three types of seedlings above the age of four years assuming that at a later age coffee tree will have reached its maximum production and so more nutrients and water will be required.
Aspects of biology and ecology of citrus leafminers (lepidoptera: gracilariidae) in major citrus growing regions of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Nguvu, Giovanni
Field investigations on the occurrence, incidence and damage severity of the Citrus Leafminer Phyllocnistis citrella Stainton (Lepidoptera: Gracillariidae) on Citrus crops were conducted in Morogoro Rural, Muheza and Kinondoni districts from December 2011 to September 2012. Fifty citrus fields were randomly selected in each of Morogoro Rural and Muheza districts from which 10 000 trees (>5 years old) were examined for leafminer damage signs. A total of 25 seedling nurseries (plants <5 years) were assessed in Kinondoni district. Occurrence of the pest was noted in almost all fields albeit at low incidence (2%). Kruskal Wallis analysis of the incidence data showed neither spatial nor temporal variations between the locations and time of survey. Damage severity in Kinondoni showed an increasing trend from December 2011 to June 2012. Based on the observable morphological features of the collected specimen and damage signs, the pest was suggested to belong to the genus Phyllocnistis and the species citrella. Total development time was longer at 20 0 C and shorter at 30 0 C with 28 days and 10 days respectively. Oviposition period decreased with increase in temperature, from 9.26 days at 20 0 C to 6.21 days at 30 0 C. Female insects lived longer than males across all tested temperatures.
Aspects of ecology of weaver ants (Oecophylla longinoda Latreille) (hymenoptera: Formicidae) in Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2016) Nene, W. A.
Studies were undertaken between 2012 and 2015 in Mtwara region, Tanzania to establish an understanding of the factors affecting population dynamics in Oecophylla longinoda. Experiments included assessment on; how viable offsprings are produced, when nuptial flights occur and environmental cues that trigger flights. Oecophylla longinoda queens were collected at four steps: before flight, immediately after leaving the nest, up to 12 h after leaving the nest and after settling naturally following the nuptial flights. Only eggs produced by queens (n=65) collected after settling naturally hatched into larvae. None of the 527 winged queens that were collected before flights and immediately after leaving the nests produced viable eggs. Observations on 56 flights recorded from 25 colonies revealed that, flights took place in the evenings. Days with flights were associated with higher relative humidity (p=0.018), less sun shine (p=0.045) and lower wind speed (p=0.034) when compared to days without flights. This knowledge offers a tool to improve forecasts of O. longinoda flights, facilitating collection of mated queens to stock ant nurseries that would supply ant colonies for IPM-programs. Furthermore, feeds that can be used as food supplements to the ants during food scarcity namely anchovy, earthworm, fish intestines and chicken intestines were tested on 20 colonies. O. longinoda preferred anchovy to the rest of the provided feeds. More ants’ activity was observed on fresh-ground anchovy compared to the dry form. Large sized particles were easily removed than smaller particles. Analytical Hierarchy Process showed that, earthworm and fish intestines were the most available feeds. Thus, during reduced food availability, farmers in the study area can use such materials as feed supplement for O. longinoda colonies. Fresh or dry anchovy of large particle sizes can be used wherever available. On factors affecting temporal abundance of weaver ants, the percentage of shoots with weaver ants was significantly (p=0.0003) associated with cashew growth phases. More weaver ants were recorded during cashew vegetative and reproductive phases than dormancy. Rainfall and temperature negatively affected number of nests, while relative humidity was negatively related to the number of shoots with weaver ants. Thus, weaver ant augmentations strategies should consider the phenology of cashew crop and weather parameters.
Assessing intensification options of common bean cultivation to improve food security on smallholder farms in the northern highlands of Tanzania
(Nelson Mandela African Institution of science and Technology, 2021) Nassary, Eliakira Kisetu
Complementarities of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) with non-legume food crops and their significances to the agricultural systems are underexploited. Based on the description of this study, eight options were assessed for the sustainable intensification of common bean cultivation (through manipulations of intercropping and rotation) against the monocultures of maize (Zea mays L.), and the improved and local varieties of common bean in the northern highlands of Tanzania. The factors assessed were the cropping seasons/years (S) (2015 to 2017), agro-ecological zones (A) above sea level (lower 843 m, middle 1051 m, upper 1743 m), cropping systems (C) (sole, intercrop, rotation), and bean varieties (V) (improved Lyamungu 90 and local Mkanamna) and their interactions. Results indicated that S, A, C, and SXA, S*C, SXAXC were significant and bean grain yields increased in intercrops ranging from 1.5 to 2.9 t ha'1 with land equivalent ratio (LER) of 1.58. Intercropping over five cropping seasons indicated that with SXV grain yields increased from 0.2 to 3.5 t ha'1 in bean and from 2.3 to 2.6 t ha’1 in maize with LERs of 1.48 and 1.55. In rotations, higher bean grain yields were attributed to S (3.3 t ha'1), C (3.4 t ha'1), and V (2.7 t ha'1) and for maize were in C (2.9 t ha1) and S (2.6 t ha'1). In conclusion, out of eight assessed options, this study found two main useful options for improving food security on smallholder farms in the northern highlands of Tanzania. The options were continuous cultivation of the improved and/or local varieties of common bean in intercrops with the maize throughout two rainy seasons of the year (long and short). Another option was cultivation of the improved and/or local varieties of common bean intercropped with maize in the long rainy season and rotating of these intercrops with the maize cultivated in the short rainy seasons. Importantly, the improved bean variety Lyamungu 90 was heavier in weight, using the same number of seeds, than the local bean variety Mkanamna, which provided additional factors to be considered to improve income where weight is the acceptable standard in the market.
Assessing the efficiency of soybean [glycine max (L.) merrill] genotypes in phosphorus uptake and nitrogen fixation
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Mshamu, Abubakari
An experiment was conducted at Ilonga Agricultural Research Institute during the 2013 cropping season in order to assess the efficiency of soybean genotypes in phosphorus uptake and nitrogen fixation. The study was conducted between March 2013 and July 2013. The experiment was designed as 4 x 7 factorial experiments in randomized complete block and laid out in split-plots arrangement with three replications. The main plots were four P fertilizer levels (0, 15, 30 and 45 kg P ha -1 ), while seven soybean genotypes (TGX 1895-33F, TGX 1895-4F, TGX 1954-1F, TGX 1871-12E, TGX 1844-4E, TGX 1440-1E and Bossier) constituted the sub- plots. The N fertilizer at a rate of 10 kg N ha -1 was applied in all experimental plots as a starter dose. Plant height, days to 50% flowering, P and N uptake, number of nodules, number of active nodules and reduced ethylene were measured at full flowering. Number of pods per plant, seeds per pod, 100 seeds weight and grain yield were obtained at harvest. Results showed that TGX 1895-33F and TGX 1954-1F were identified as high P uptake genotypes with 0.4064 and 0.3831 mg P/plant, respectively. Also they were identified as efficient in N 2 fixation with the highest amounts of reduced acetylene from detached nodules with 7.14 and 6.96 μ mol C 2 H 4 h -1 g -1 , respectively. The high yielding genotypes were identified to be TGX 1954-1F, TGX 1844-4E and TGX 1440-1E (P ≤ 0.05) which had grain yield of 1706, 1892 and 1863 kg ha -1 , respectively. Based on the results from this study, it is recommended that genotypes TGX 1895-33F, TGX 1954-1F and TGX 1844-4E be used in the breeding programmes at the Institute.
Assessment of germination stimulants from non-host leguminous crops for control of striga asiatica (L) kuntze in semi - arid areas of Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2005) Mgonja, Fridaii Nnekia Mbazi
Striga axiatica is one of'the most destructive parasitic need species in the Semi Arid Zone of Tanzania. In an effort to come out with an appropriate and sustainable method of controlling the weed species, two laboratory/screen house and one field experiments were conducted to identify leguminous crop species/cultivars that are suitable for use as trap crops in the control of.S’rr/qr? asiatica. Effectiveness of root exudates of 56 cultivars from six leguminous species on germination of .S’, axiatica seeds were assessed in vitro using Petri Dish (PD) technique. A split plot design replicated four times was used The second laboratory- experiment, aimed at eyaluating the effect of seed coat colour and different plant parts of selected leguminous species/cultiyars on stimulating germination of the parasitic yveed seeds was done used A Completely Randomised Design (CRD) with four replications yvas Both experiments were repeated three times In addition, a 2-years field experiment was conducted to eyaluate the efficacy in situ of the species/ cultivars identified in vitro A Completely Randomised Block Design (CRBD) was used and the experiment w as replicated four times. Results indicated that effectiveness of root exudates depends on Strtga seed population, and cultivars within species differed in their capacity to stimulate germmation of .S’ axiatica seeds. Pigeon pea cultivars ICEAP 00020 and ICEAP 00040; groundnut ex-Bukene; cowpeas white black eyed; bambara groundnut cultivars Nyandani spotted cream and Red ex- Makutupora were found to stimulate significantly (P < 0.001) higher germination percentages of 5. axiatica seeds compared to the other tested cultivars within their respective species. hence were selected for further evaluation in field. Seed exudates from black seededii bambara groundnut stimulated 66.8% germination of .S’, asiatica seeds, which was significantly (P < 0 001) higher compared to percent germination induced by the positive control (41 3%) Germination of Striga seeds exposed to exudates from dill'erent plant pans (roots, shoots and seeds) of bambara groundnuts, cowpeas and groundnut ranged from 15% to 63 4%. which was significantly higher compared to percent germination induced b\ the negative control (2 4%). Rotating legume trap crops with sorghum resulted into 38 - 48% reduction of.S'/r/gfl seeds in the soil as well as reduction of Stnga infestation bv 50% compared to continuous sorghum cropping anti weed free fallow - sorghum rotation. Yields of sorghum grow n after legumes ranged between 0.75 - 2 28 tons/ha. while yields from sorghum after weed- free fallow and sorghum continuous cropping were 0.53 tons/ha and 0.61 tons/ha respective!} Except for cowpeas, all other legume - sorghum rotations resulted into significant!} (P < 0 001) higher yields compared with the weed free fallow and continuous sorghum cropping It is concluded that crop rotation with pigeon pea cultivars ICEAP 00020 and ICEAP 00040; groundnut ex-Bukene. and bambara groundnut cultivars Nyandam spotted cream and red ex- Makutupora can serve as elTective trap crops which would reduce .S' asiatica seed bank and infestations. By inference, rotating sorghum with any of these legumes would boost yields, thereby sparing farmers limited resources, which would have otherwise been spent for other expensive Striffa control measures
Assessment of germination stimulants from non-host leguminous crops for control of striga asiatica (L.) Kuntze in semi - arid areas of Tanzania.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2005) Mgonja, Fridah Nnekia Mbazi
Sin^u asiatica is one of the mosl deslructix e parasitic weed species in the Semi And Zone of Tanzania In an efibrt to come out with an appropriate and sustainable method of conlrolling lhe weed species, two 1 aboralor\7screen house and one field experiments were conducted to identify leguminous crop species/cullivars that are suitable for use as trap crops in lhe control of Stnga asiatica. Eflectiveness of root exudates of 56 cultixars from six leguminous species on germination of S. asiatica seeds were assessed in vitro using Pein Dish (PD) technique. A split plot design replicaied four times was used. The second laboratory experiment, aimed at exaluating lhe effect of seed coat colour and different plant pans oT selected leguminous species/cullivars on stimulating germination of the parasitic weed seeds was done used. A Completely Randomised Design (CRD) with four replications was Both experiments were repealed three limes. In addition, a 2-\ears field experiment was conducled to exaiuate lhe efficacy in situ of the species/ cultivars identified in vitro A Completely Randomised Block Design (CRBD) was used and lhe experiment w as replicated four times. Results indicated that effectiveness of root exudates depends on Striga seed population. and cultivars \\ ithin species differed in lheir capacity to stimulate gennination of S. asiatica seeds. Pigeon pea cultivars ICEAP 00020 and ICEAP 00040; groundnut ex-Bukene: cowpeas white black eyed; barnbara groundnut cultivars Nyandani spotted cream and Red ex- Makutupora were round lo stimulate significantly (P < 0 ()01) higher germination percentages of S. usianca seeds compared lo lhe other tested cultivars within their respect!\e species. hence were selected for further evaluation in field. Seed exudates from black seeded bambara groundnut stimulated 66.8% germination of S. asiatica seeds, which was significant!} (P < ()001) higher compared to percent germination induced by the positixe control (41 3%). Genninaiion of Sfn^a seeds exposed lo exudates from dilTerent plant pans (roots, shoots and seeds) of bambara groundnuts, cowpeas and groundnut ranged from 15% lo 63.4%. which was significantly higher compared to percent germination induced by the negative control (2.4%). Rotating legume trap crops with sorghum resulted into 3X - 48% reduction of Stnga seeds in the soil as well as reduction of Sirica inlesiaiion by 50% compared to continuous sorghum cropping and w eed free fallow 一 sorghum rotation. Yields of sorghum grow n after legumes ranged between ().75 — 2 28 tons/ha. while \ ields from sorghum after weed- free fallow and sorghum continuous cropping were 0.53 tons/ha and 0.61 tons/ha respeclixely Except lor cowpeas, all other legume - sorghum rotations resulted into significant^ (P < () 0()1) higher yields compared with the weed free fallow and continuous sorghum cropping It is concluded that crop rotation with pigeon pea cultivars ICEAP ()0020 and ICEAP 00040: groundnut ex-Bukene; and bambara groundnul cultivars Nyandani spoiled cream and red ex- Makutupora can serve as efTectixe trap crops which would reduce S. asiatica seed bank and iniestations. By inference, rotating sorghum with any of these legumes would boost yields, thereby sparing farmers limited resources, which would have otherw ise been spent for other expensixe Stn^a conirol measures.
Assessment of physical quality and health of farmer saved pigeon pea (Cajanus Cajan) seeds in Babati and Karatu districts
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2018) Theophili, T.
An assessment of quality parameters of farmer saved pigeon pea seeds was conducted in Babati and Karatu Districts in northern Tanzania. Pigeon pea seed samples were collected from 80 households (farmers), 40 from each district; for testing of their physical and health quality status with respect to three post-harvest handling practices (storage, pre storage seed treatment and seed sorting) following ISTA procedures. Results were then compared with national standards of pigeon peas seeds in Tanzania. Very few of the samples (15% in Babati and 12.5% in Karatu Districts) met the minimum quality standards for pigeon peas seed purity which is 97%. About 60 % of the samples from Babati and 55% from Karatu Districts met the minimum standards of moisture content (which is 10%). Similarly, 97.5 % of the samples from Babati and 82.5% from Karatu Districts met the minimum standard for germination capacity which is 70%. Fusarium udum which is a pathogen of seed health significance in pigeon peas was detected in 33 samples from Babati (equivalent to 82.5%) and 36 samples from Karatu Districts (equivalent to 90% of the samples). Eleven other seed infesting fungi were also observed, with Rhizopus spp appearing in all samples and having the highest incidence of 23.2% for Karatu and 16.1% for Babati District. Significant correlation existed between seed purity and incidence of Cladosporium spp and between seed moisture content and incidence of Fusarium moniliforme; but the correlation with purity was positive against expectation. Further study is suggested of scenarios of farmers′ seeds and quality.
Assessment of post-harvest losses of mango (mangifera indica l.) in Morogoro region.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2011) KIMARO, E. S
High postharvest loss of up to 60 % due to improper postharvest handling practices during the supply chain has been reported in fresh mango fruits in Tanzania The study was conducted to determine mango fruit damages in different stages of the supply chain and develops suitable practices for reduction of postharvest losses during the wholesale market in Morogoro region. Based on farmers/traders practices, postharvest losses of mango fruits at harvesting, transportation and wholesale storage were evaluated. Moreover, an assessment was conducted to compare fruit postharvest losses when ‘tenga’ were loaded with or without separators in between for truck transportation and when fruit ‘tenga’ were stored under the sun, woven polypropylene and black net shades during the wholesale storage. Survey data were analysed using SPSS program based on cross tap method whereas data analysis to compare effect of separators between cartons on fruit losses based on Student t-test (P < 0.05). Data to compare effect of shades on fruit losses were subjected to analysis of variance and treatments mean separation was carried out based on Tukey test (P< 0.05). The total postharvest losses of mango *fruits encountered in all stages along the supply chain was 43.8 % with the main damage features being caused by fruit fly maggots, microbial decay and fruit softening each accounting for 8.65, 11.85 and 20.05 % of the total losses, respectively. Conversely, fruit storage under the shades significantly (P < 0.05) reduced fruit postharvest losses from 31.09% under the sun to 9.31 and 11.34 % under the woven polypropylene and black screen shades, respectively. It is recommended that traders should use separators between ‘tenga’ during long distance mango fruit transportation and store fresh mango fruits under polypropylene shade during the wholesale storage market in order to reduce postharvest losses. Municipal or district authorities are argued to construct cold storage facilities for storing fresh fruits.Furthermore, farmers should disinfect fruits against fruit fly eggs and decay micro organism as a strategy to reduce postharvest losses.
Assessment of root knot nematodes (meloidogyne spp.) preferences to commonly grown tomato varieties in Mvomero district
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2022) Ombaeli, Samweli
Root-knot nematodes (RKN) are among serious biotic constraints to tomato growers in Tanzania but relatively overlooked. This necessitated to conduct a survey to capture pre- existing knowledge of growers on RKN in Mvomero Disrict, Morogoro, Tanzania. Multistage sampling procedure was used to obtain respondents for interiew. Semi- structured questionnaires were used to collect data from 100 randomly selected respondents in Mlali (33), Doma (33) and Dakawa (34). Data were collected on socio- economic status, awareness of respondents on RKN, tomato varieties grown, seed sources and yield. Results indicate that there was a significant variation (p = 0.01) in awareness on RKN across categories of respondents. However, 59% of respondents were not aware of RKN. There was a significant correlation between farming experience and yield of tomato (p < 0.001), Farming experience and awareness of RKN (p < 0.001) and between yield and knowledge on RKN resistant tomato varieties (p < 0.008). Popular tomato varieties grown by farmers were Rio Grande (14%), Cal J (18%), Roma (10%) and Tanya (16%) while hybrids were Imara F1 (19%), Assila F1 (15%), Jarrah F1 (2%), Zara F1 (3%), Kipato F1 (2%) and Anna F1 (2%). Seventy five root and 75 soil samples of tomato plants at flowering/fruiting stage showing stunting, chlorosis and wilting signs were collected from fields located at least 1km apart in Mlali, Doma and Dakawa. Samples were collected about 25 cm deep using a shovel, packed in sterile plastic bags, labelled and transported to TARI Kibaha Nematology laboratory for RKN analysis. Results revealed the significant prevalence (p = 0.002) and incidence (p < 0.001) of RKN. Despite the occurrence and damage caused by RKN in tomato in the study areas, only one percent of respondents recognised RKN as a serious problem. Awareness campaign on RKN will facilitate farmers’ consciousness of their existence and management.
Assessment of selected agrochemicals in wastewater from horticultural farms in Arusha and their removal by constructed wetlands
(The Nelson Mandela African Institution of Science and Technology, 2014) Lerna, Emmy Solomon
Commercial horticulture has been growing rapidly and has a significant contribution to food security and economic growth in Tanzania. The growth of horticulture industry has been associated with an increase in consumption of agrochemicals on farms. 1 lowever. wastewaters containing agrochemicals are usually discharged from horticulture farms into the environment without proper treatment. Apparently, the effects of these agrochemicals on the environment are very complex, and therefore, their undesirable transformations can contaminate water, soil, sediments and biota and consequently cause adverse effects on human health and the environment. This study was aimed at investigating the levels of agrochemicals in wastewater discharged from selected horticultural farms in Arusha and their removal by constructed wetlands. The study reviewed literature on the use of agrochemicals in Tanzania and analysed wastewater discharged from horticulture farms for nutrients and pesticide levels. The literature review on agrochemical use showed that inorganic fertilizers, insecticides, fungicides and herbicides arc mostly used in horticultural fields. The analysis of wastewater from live horticulture farms detected NOj'. PO/\ BOD5 and permethrin in the wastewater discharged into the environment at concentration levels above the Tanzanian allowable limits for discharge. The mean concentration levels ranged from (4.5 - 64) ppm for NO.f, (3 - 48) ppm for POq3’. (57-119) ppm for BOD5 and (0.4 - 0.8) ppm for permethrin insecticide. This study investigated the influence of macrophyte type towards removal of Cu, Fe, Mn. Zn. Endosulfan, L-Cyhalothrin and Permethrin by using bucket experiments and influence of flow rate towards removal of Cu. Zn and Mn in horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetlands (HSSFCWs). The results from the bucket experiments showed a significant positive effect of macrophytes on the removal of Cu, Fe, Mn and Zn. In the HSSFCWs experiments, the removal of heavy metals was as high as 95 % on the average and was found to be independent of flow rate and the difference was statistically insignificant (P>0.05). It w'as observed that regardless of the mechanisms involved in the removal of heavy metals in the HSSFCWs, the overall removal is not limited to transport processes within the wetlands. The conclusion drawn from this research is that agrochemicals are a problem in the environment and constructed wetlands can be used as treatment options for wastewater before it is discharged into the environment.
Availability, accessibility and household handling Practices of traditional leafy vegetables: a case of Lindi region
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2020) Saria, B. M
In Sub-Saharan Africa Tanzania inclusive, most of the diet consumed is cereal based which contains low micronutrients and phytochemicals; vitamins, beta-carotene as well as carotenoids which are found more in Traditional Leafy Vegetables (TLVs). Micronutrients deficiency is a major health problem in developing country including Tanzania due to poor dietary diversity among other causes. The study aims to explore the availability, accessibility and household handling practices of TLVs. The study employed a crosssectional qualitative-explorative study design which mainly involved KII, FGDs and market survey. A stratified multistage sampling approach was used in selecting respondents. Data were analyzed by using NVivo 12, qualitative data analysis software (QDAS). Result obtained showed that most of the participants for both KII and FGDs ranged between of 20-30 years of age. TLVs were mentioned to be mostly available during rainy season and became more scarcity during dry season which lead to high price and low diversification of TLVs. There are few participants who locally process TLVs like cowpea leaves and jute mallow (linyororo) and obtain the end product as dried cowpea leaves and Jute mallow (linyororo). Different preparation and cooking methods were mentioned which include; boiling and prolonged cooking while covering the vegetables. Climatic change, use of local seed and lack of market information mentioned to be the factors affecting the availability and accessibility of TLVs. Therefore, the study revealed that TLVs are available and they are highly accessible during the rainy season but became less available during dry season which lead to the increasing in the scarcity and price as well as insufficiency knowledge on preparation and cooking methods of TLVs. There is a need to integrate preparation and cooking practices with agriculture interventions to equip rural household farmers with the knowledge on how to prepare food without losing important nutrients like vitamins which are easily lost.
Banana xanthomonas wilt: incidence, transmission, pathogen characterization and management options in Kagera, Mwanza and Mara regions
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2013) Hashim, Ibrahim
Field surveys were conducted from December, 2011 to January, 2012 in Kagera, Mwanza and Mara regions to assess the current status of banana Xanthomonas wilt (BXW) disease. Twenty eighty banana samples with BXW disease symptoms were randomly collected from a total of 147 surveyed fields. Farmers’ knowledge of BXW disease was assessed using a checklist, discussions and direct field observations. Isolation of bacteria was done on Yeast Peptone Glucose Agar and identification was done based on morphological, biochemical, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and pathogenicity tests. Results indicated that the incidence of BXW disease was highest (56.7 %) at Ihangiro and the lowest (10 %) at Ruhija and Mulela, in Muleba District; Nakamwa and Busagami, in Ukerewe District. Such results implied that, BXW disease is a constraint to banana production in the surveyed districts. The results also indicated that BXW pathogen transmission was through infected farming tools (65.4 %) in Muleba District and infected planting materials in Tarime (50.5 %) and Ukerewe (45.8 %) Districts, implying that these were the major means by which BXW disease was spread in the study area. About 58.33 % and 41.67 % of farmers at Ibare and Kishanda villages, respectively, in Muleba District farmers associated pied crow (Corvus albus L.) with the transmission of BXW causing pathogen. Results based on morphological, biochemical and PCR test indicated that, four out of 16 bacteria isolated from infected banana samples were most likely Xanthomonas campestris pv. musacearum (Xcm). This study recommends farmers training through seminars on BXW disease identification and proper management. Further studies on the relationship between the pied crow and Xcm transmission in Kagera, Mara and Mwanza regions, are also recommended.
Bean bruchid resistance and genetic diversity of bruchid ecotypes from bean growing regions of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2022) Mayunga Edina
Bean bruchids Zabrotes subfasciatus and Acanthoscelides obtectus are the serious pests which cause serious damage to the stored beans. Damage is directly related to the time of bean storage, the longer storage time the greater the damage. Host plant resistance is a profitable and a safe alternative to control bruchids in common bean and is associated with biochemical, morphological, and molecular traits. These traits affect insect growth and development and in that way, reduce the losses by the pests. The aim of first objective was to evaluate the damage level of bruchids in resistant (AO-1012-29-3-3A) and susceptible (Njano gololi) bean genotypes associated with biotype variation. Bean bruchids were collected from different bean growing regions Songwe (Vwawa), Kilimanjaro (Mungushi), Karatu (Rhotia), Morogoro (SUA) and Arusha (Kimyaki) in Tanzania, then transferred to the laboratory for inoculation. . Experiment was conducted using a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with a 2 x 5 factorial scheme, two bean cultivars (AO-1012-29-3-3A and Njano gololi), five bruchids ecotypes for each A. obtectus and Z. subfasciatus and 3 replications. The results of this study have reported that each bean bruchids from a specific region showed a significant difference at prob. = 0.001 on beans infestation. AO-1012-29-3-3A and Njano showed different results on the resistance to bean bruchids. It was observed that AO-1012-29-3-3A line was resistant to bruchids collected from many regions by experiencing less damage and Njano gololi was observed to have high population of emerged bean bruchids, high percentage weight loss, high Susceptibility index and severity hence susceptible. The purpose of second objective was to determine phenotypic characteristics of the emerged F 1 bruchid ecotypes resulted from crossing resistant (AO-1012-29-3-3A) and susceptible (Njano gololi) bean genotypes. To examine whether these traits are host induced or genetically determined. Resistant genotype was used to assess whether host-race morphological differences are genetically determined or due to phenotypic plasticity. There was significant difference in size of F 1 bruchids emerging from resistant genotype (AO-1012-29-3-3A) and susceptible genotype (Njano gololi). The results showed that the morphological change of F 1 bruchids from AO-1012-29-3-3A was due to phenotypic plasticity since morphological changes occurred due to feeding on resistant genotypes (environment factor). The purpose of third objective was to identify the genetic diversity of bean bruchid weevils (Acanthoscelides obtectus and Zabrotes subfasciatus) in bean producing regions in Tanzania using molecular taxonomy (12S rRNA and COI marker). The results obtained did not show genetic diversity (100% identity) of Acanthoscelides obtectus present in Tanzania. For Zabrotes subfasciatus some variations was observed (80.2% identity). The genetic diversity was observed between Acanthoscelides obtectus and Zabrotes subfasciatus in which there was difference in some sequence alignment. Better knowledge of bruchids diversity present in Tanzania will help breeders and farmers to propose effective control methods with impact on environmental changes.
Bean density suppression of weeds in maize bean intercropping under conventional and conservation tillage systems in Arusha, Tanzania
(Sokoine University Of Agriculture, 2014) Baltazari, Anna
The field experiment to evaluate the effectiveness of bean plant population under conservation and conventional tillage systems in suppressing weeds in maize-bean intercropping systems was conducted at the Tropical Pesticides Research Institute (TPRI) for the 2010 short rains and 2011 long rains season. A split-split plot experiment laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with three replications. The main treatments were: the conventional and conservation tillage systems, having five sub plot factors namely: sole maize, sole bean, maize-bean intercrops at a constant maize spacing of 75cm x 30 cm and a varied spacing of bean at 75cm x 20cm, 50cm x 20cm and 25cm x 20cm. The sub-sub plot factors were four weed management practices namely: weeding once at 28 days after planting, pre-emergence selective herbicide application without weeding, weeding twice at 14 and 28 days after planting, and control (i.e. without weeding). Data were analyzed by Gen-stat software and means were separated by Tukey’s Honestly Significant Differences Test (THSDT). The results showed that maize intercropped with bean at a spacing of 50cm x 20cm gave significantly higher grain yield (5.1 t/ha) while maize grown as a sole crop gave lowest grain yield (3.3 t/ha) during the 2010 short rains season. For the long rain season, maize intercropped with bean at a spacing of 50cm x 20cm resulted in a significantly higher grain yield (4.8 t/ha) while maize grown as a sole crop gave significantly lower grain yield (3.7 t/ha) during the 2011 long rains season. The use of pre-emergence selective herbicide resulted in an increased yield of both maize and beans in both seasons. The conventional tillage showed superiority in controlling weeds than conservation tillage. Bean intercropped at 50cmx20cm was the best bean population for suppressing weeds without affecting maize yield.
Cashew management and its effect on soils and intercrops: the case of sulphur dusting in South Eastern Tanzania
(Katholieke Universiteit Leuven, 2001) Ngatunga, Edward L.
This study examines management of cashew groves in South Eastem Tanzania and the effect of adopting sulphur dusting on soils and on cashew and its intercrops. Production of cashew nuts, an important cash crop in South Eastem Tanzania, is constrained by powdery mildew disease caused by Oidium anacardii Noack To get high yields, farmers have to dust the trees with 90 kg of sulphur per hectare After a decade of sulphur use, there is widespread concern about future productivity of the soils because buffering capacity of the soils to withstand prolonged sulphur use is not known. Production of cashew nuts is also low due to planting in marginally suitable areas The other associated problem is the lack of a strategy to address soil acidity arising from sulphur use The main objective of the study is therefore to find approaches that will ensure sustainable production and management of the cashew-intercrop based farming systems in South Eastem Tanzania. To evaluate soil suitability for the cashew nut tree, henceforth called the cashew tree, soil profile features and physico-chemical properties of soils of 16 representative cashew groves on the Makonde plateau and 14 in the Inland plains were studied. Soil properties indicate that on the Makonde plateau soils arc sandy, highly weathered, deep and devoid of mottles, nodules and hardpans. Ferralsols constituted over 60 % of the soil groupings in cashew groves sampled on the plateau Several soil groupings such as Acrisols, Alisols, Phnthosols, Cambisols and Phaeozems were found in the plains where soils are generally clayey and often shallow and less weathered. Through multivariate analysis, the relationship of 19 soil parameters and 20 cashew tree parameters revealed that tree dimensions were larger and had higher yields on deep, strongly weathered soils most common on the Makonde plateaux On shallow, weakly weathered soils found in the Inland plains, trees had smaller dimensions and low yield. The fact that the plant grew favourably on the plateau, regardless of the low chemical fertility, shows that cashew trees are more sensitive to physical than to chemical limitations of the: terrain. Buffering capacity of cashew growing soils was studied by titrating soil samples from different groves with acid and relating changes in pH to soil properties. Buffering capacity was strongly and positively correlated with percent clay and weakly with percent organic carbon of the soils. Buffering capacity of soils on the Makonde plateau was comparable to that of soils in the Inland plains. Due to the low initial pH and low clay content of soils of the Makonde plateau, acidification of these soils is more likely to reach to critical levels. To verify to which extent past sulphur dusting affected the soil of farmers’ cashew groves, the pH of 70 sulphur dusted groves was compared to 70 non-dusted groves. The survey indicated that use of sulphur has lowered the pH of soils on the Makonde plateau, while soils of the Inland plains have not been affected. To predict the effects of sulphur use on annual intercrops of cashew trees, twelve 3-year field experiments in which sulphur was applied on maize, sorghum and cowpeas were conducted at three locations. Sulphur rates varied from 0 to 240 kg ha’1. Results showed that sulphur decreased germination percentage and grain yield of sorghum and maize, beginning from the second year of application of 120 kg ha'1 and above The decrease was most pronounced in soils on the Makonde plateau. Cowpeas were tolerant to sulphur use. Through an incubation experiment set out to evaluate the ability of Mikindani lime (burned coral lime), Minjingu rock phosphate and ash from cashew leaves to neutralise soil acidity, Mikindani lime was found to be the most suitable material. It raised the soil pH from 3.8 to 6.0 at the rate of 0.3 ton ha’1 costing USS 10 for procurement and application in the field. Both Minjingu rock phosphate and ash required large amounts of materials, resulting in a higher cost. This study has shown that the most important soil properties to check when planting cashew trees are soil depth and weathering status. Deliberate effort should be made to reduce quantity of sulphur used on the Makonde plateau, as the risk for adverse effects of acidification is highest here As risk for soil acidification is less pronounced in the Inland plains, sulphur use can be continued, however, periodic monitoring of soil pH is recommended. To lessen the acidifying effect of sulphur, its use can be reduced by applying crop cultural practises, such as pruning and burning of infected twigs and leaves. Organic fungicides can be an alternative to sulphur but they have the disadvantage of being more expensive and more toxic to humans and animals than sulphur. Although burned lime has proven to be effective to raise the pH of the acidified soils, further research is needed to investigate its effect on the yield of cashew trees and cashew intercrops. An integrated approach to address the mildew problem should also involve a long-term strategy to evaluate/breed for disease resistant tree types.
Cassava production improvement through staggered planting for industrial processing and utilization in Eastern and Southern zone of Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2020) Masisila, Festo Frank
Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) is mainly cultivated because of its starchy storage roots and it is considered one of the most important staple foods in the tropical countries. High dry matter contents and starch yields are the most important traits for commercialized cassava starch production. The experiment aimed at identifying suitable cassava scheduled planting, harvesting and varietal performance to maximize starch production across the three locations in Eastern and Southern zones of Tanzania during the 2017/18 - 2018/19 cropping seasons. The experiment was laid out in split-split plot under randomized complete block design with variety being main factor, planting schedules as sub plot and scheduled harvesting as sub-sub plot. The total root yield increased significantly from first to third planting and harvesting times respectively. Kiroba variety planted in November/December and then harvested at twelve months after planting (MAP) gave higher total root yield of 27 tones per hactre (t/ha) at Southern zone and also at the Eastern zone Kiroba variety planted in November/December and March/April yielded higher total root (22t/ha) when harvested at 12MAP. Based on cassava dry matter content; the study concluded that: higher dry matter content was obtained when Mkuranga 1 variety planted on November/December and harvested at 12MAP gave 40% followed by Kiroba variety planted in November/December and harvested after 12MAP had 39% at Southern zone. Also the study found that; cassava starch content was higher (23%) at Southern zone when Mkuranga 1 variety planted during November/December and harvested at 12MAP before the onset of rainfall.
Characterization and incorporation of fusarium wilt disease resistance in African and Asian Pigeonpeas [Cajanus cajan (L.) MILLSP.] Germplasms.
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2015) Mayomba, Maryanna, M.
Fusarium wilt is a plant disease caused by Fusarium udum (Butler). It is a soil and seed borne fungus which causes significant yield losses in susceptible cultivars throughout the pigeonpea growing areas. Numerous control measures have been suggested to alleviate the problem but their success has still remained low due to prohibitive costs. Development of resistant pigeonpea varieties is sought as an alternative for control of the disease. However, the task of developing resistant pigeonpea varieties has been complicated by variability in the pathogen. To undertake the study, the whole task was divided into three sub studies: Variability and aggressiveness of Fusarium udum, genetic diversity, inheritances and SSR marker segregation for the disease resistance, combining ability in yield and yield components. The Variability and aggressiveness of Fusarium udum isolates against 21 pigeonpeas were examined using pathogenicity and morphological characterizations, high level of resistance was noted in ICEAP 00040, ICEAP 00540 and ICEAP 00557 genotypes hence could be used as new source of resistance thus further studies using molecular markers were recommended. Sixty genotypes and 16 primers were used in diversity analysis. Close relationship was observed between Indian and East African collections. This could be diversified through selection, recombination and introduction of new source of variability from genetically diverse pigeonpeas. The study of genetic inheritance revealed a 3:1 ratio in F2, thus proved a single dominant gene which could be used to donate genes for disease resistance into genotypes where Fusarium wilt is of an economic problem. The F2 populations with resistant and susceptible parents were characterized using six SSR markers. Only CZ681922, CZ681962 and CZ681928 showed high correlation to phenotypic expression, hence application of these markers was recommended for sorting resistant genotypes. Path analysis showed that number of pods per plant, seeds per pod and 100 seeds weight had good contribution to yield and could be used as selection criteria in breeding programs. With ii i regard to combining ability parents, P2, P5 and P6 with crosses P1×P2, P1×P4, P1×P5, P2×P3, P2×P4, P3×P6 and P5×P6 were good general and specific combiners hence could be used by breeders as source of composite and hybrid materials.
Characterization of alectra vogelii (witch weed) strains using molecular markers in selected parts of Malawi and Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2014) Mwaipopo, Beatrice Victor
Alectra vogelii has been the major constraint known to attack leguminous species especially to cowpea production. Identification of genetic variation of A.vogelii is a pre-requisite for developing improved cowpea varieties. Hence, the objective of the experiment was the identification of phylogenetically differences and differential responses of A. vogelii found in cowpeas, bambara groundnuts and sunflower from selected parts of Malawi and Tanzania.The first objective, total of 240 SSRs (Rice bean, S. gesnerioides and S. hermothica markers), ISSRs, cpDNA and mtDNA primers used to determine the genetic variability of A.vogelii. The PCR master mix reaction volume of 25μl, containing 2.5μl of 10X PCR buffer, sterile distilled water, 1μM of each primer, 1mM of each dNTPs, 0.5U/μl of TaqDNA polymerase and 50 ng DNA. PCR and gel electrophoresis ran. High coefficients of genetic similarity were revelled among A.vogelii variants. The 29 A.vogelii isolates examined was clustered into six main groups. The identified genetic variability of the A.vogelii will help in effective breeding of sunflower, bambara groundnuts and groundnuts. Second objective, the 23 isolates of A. vogelii was infested to 11 cowpea varieties/lines (Vuli 1, Vuli 2, Fahari, Tumaini, IT99K-573-1, IT99K-7-21-2-2-1, IT00K-1263, IT99K-1122, IT82K-16, B301, Bunda 1, and TZA 263), made a total of 492 pots. Approximately 500 A. vogelii seeds were infested in the prepared pots, 3 seeds of cowpea were sown approximately 5cm deep. The number of emerged A. vogelii plants was counted. The results show that, there is high variability in cowpeas depending on number of the parasite emergence and time of emergence. Third objective, a total of 21 A.vogelii isolate was infested to Bambara groundnuts, peanuts and soyabeans, which made the total of 126 pots. The plants were watered after every 3 days. The number of emerged A. vogelii plants was counted at 6th, 8th, 10th and 12thweeks after pot infestation. Both A.vogelii isolates from Tanzania and Malawi showed late emergence and were more reactive on bambara groundnuts than on soyabean and groundnuts.

Browse

Browsing Theses and Dissertations Collection by Title