Spatiotemporal discrepancies and risk assessment of toxic heavy metals in surface water of Shitalakhya River around Narayanganj port in Bangladesh

The urban rivers of developing countries like Bangladesh have been severely affected by toxic heavy metal pollution, posing serious ecological and human health risks. This study aimed to investigate the concentrations, spatiotemporal discrepancies, and associated risks of five alarming toxic metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu and Mn) in the surface water of urban Shitalakhya River around Narayanganj port, one of the biggest and most important river ports in Bangladesh. Water samples were collected for three prevailing seasons i.e., pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon from five selected sites. Physicochemical properties (color, odor, temperature, DO, pH, EC and TDS) of river water were also assessed, while heavy metal pollution index (HPI), heavy metal evaluation index (HEI) and degree of contamination (CD) were calculated to evaluate the risks associated with toxic metal pollution in river water. The findings revealed that several physicochemical parameters, especially DO, EC and TDS, were not within the standards. The hierarchy of mean heavy metal concentrations in Shitalakhya River water was found as Mn>Cr>Cu>Cd>Pb during pre-monsoon, Mn>Cu>Cr>Cd>Pb during monsoon, and Mn>Cr>Cu>Pb>Cd during post-monsoon season. The metal concentrations were found to be higher in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon seasons, whereas the concentrations of all the heavy metals excluding Mn were within the standards recommended for domestic use, surface water, fisheries and irrigation purposes. The comparative analysis exhibited that the water quality of Shitalakhya River is deteriorating day by day at an alarming rate. HPI showed a critical pollution index value (drinking) for all three seasons, whereas HEI revealed low heavy metal contamination for all sampling stations. The values of CD indicated a high level of contamination in pre-monsoon and post-monsoon but monsoon season. The results confirmed the spatiotemporal discrepancies in toxic metal concentrations and associated ecological and human health risks, possibly resulting from the hydrological and anthropogenic interventions not only associated with port activities. Hence, urgent collective effort and proper monitoring are of utmost importance to safeguard the public health and this urban riverine ecosystem. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 74-84, December 202

In-vitro effectiveness of aqueous extract of organic compost against Helminthosporium turcicum (cryptogamic disease pathogen of maize)

Sustainable agriculture requires the application of biofertilizers and biopesticides in farming systems. The aim of the study was to analyze in-vitro the effect of aqueous extracts from organic compost on the development of cryptogamic disease in maize plants for yield improvement. The study was carried out in the laboratory using a pure strain of Helminthosporium turcicum previously isolated from infected maize leaves showing symptoms of the disease. Aqueous substrates of unsterilized and sterilized composts, with the concentrations 0.5, 1.0 and 2.0 mL were respectively mixed with liquid PDA at 19.5; 19 and 18 mL for a final volume of 20 ml, then aseptically poured into 90 mm diameter Petri dishes under the laminar flow hood. After solidification, 7 mm-diameter mycelial discs from young H. turcicum cultures were deposited on the agar pellets. 48 hours after incubation, mycelial growth was measured 4 times until the positive control Petri dish was invaded by mycelial filaments. The results showed that the mycelial growth of the H. turcicum strain in the presence of the sterilized aqueous compost extract was significantly reduced. Increasing the concentration significantly inhibited strain growth to the order of 95.89% at a concentration of 2 mL sterilized aqueous compost extract. Similarly, in the presence of the unsterilized aqueous compost extract, the mycelial growth of H. turcicum was also reduced. The Increasing concentration inhibited the pathogen growth by up to 76.92%, at the concentration of 2 mL. These results showed that the aqueous extract of organic compost contains compounds that could be responsible for producing suppressive substances accountable for the mechanisms inhibiting the mycelial growth of H. turcicum. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 62-73, December 202

Estimation of soil erosion and risk assessment in Somalia

Soil erosion is a pressing issue that threatens environmental stability and agricultural productivity across the globe. In Somalia, where the population already contends with severe socioeconomic and environmental challenges, the effects of erosion compound problems like food insecurity and land degradation. This study investigates erosion patterns and identifies areas prone to soil loss, aiming to provide actionable insights for improving land use practices and resource management. The research employs advanced analytical tools to study how erosion factors are distributed geographically. Data such as terrain characteristics, rainfall intensity, vegetation cover, soil quality, and land usage are systematically analyzed. Cutting-edge modeling techniques, supported by historical erosion trends, help to develop accurate predictions about future soil loss, offering a robust basis for creating effective intervention strategies. The findings show that many regions in Somalia are highly susceptible to erosion, particularly where unsustainable human activities such as overgrazing, deforestation, and improper farming methods are prevalent. These insights underscore the urgent need for targeted policies to mitigate erosion and protect valuable soil resources. By forecasting potential erosion scenarios, this research equips decision-makers with the tools needed to prioritize interventions that enhance agricultural output, preserve ecosystems, and ensure long-term sustainability. This research aids policymakers, land managers, and stakeholders in formulating focused, evidence-based plans for soil conservation and sustainable land use, ultimately facilitating the preservation and enhancement of Somalia\u27s natural resources and agricultural resilience. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 111-121, December 202

Assessing mechanized, conservation, and small-scale tillage impacts on Alexander wander wheat performance in Bamenda, Cameroon

Tillage practices constitute the major initial applications of farm power and machinery during crop cultivation. They comprise all soil-related manipulations aimed at preparing a good seedbed for appropriate crop growth. In order to improve crop yields while enabling sustainable soils, tillage practices executed during crop production in a particular region need to be assessed. The aim of this study was to investigate the impacts of tillage practices on Alexander wander wheat growth, and yield in Bamenda, Cameroon. An experiment was conducted during the cropping seasons of 2023 and 2024 at the research farm of the College of Technology of the University of Bamenda, Cameroon laid out in a randomized complete block design comprising five tillage treatments namely; mechanized tillage (disc ploughing followed by disc harrowing), conservation tillage (no-tillage, and strip tillage), and small-scale tillage (burning in ridges (“Ankara”), and traditional ridge tillage). Disc ploughing was conducted using a 3-disc standard right-handed disc plough followed by disc harrowing using an offset disc harrow. Tillage significantly influenced wheat performance (growth parameters, and yield attributes) during both the 2023, and 2024 cropping seasons. Ankara produced the best wheat performance followed by traditional ridge tillage. Disc ploughing followed by disc harrowing came third, while no-tillage, and strip-tillage practices produced the poorest wheat growth parameters, and yield attributes during both years. Thus, small-scale tillage practices (Ankara and traditional ridge tillage) are recommended for Alexander wander wheat production in Bamenda, Cameroon followed by mechanized tillage (disc ploughing followed by disc harrowing). Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 20-27, December 202

Graft success and seedling growth responses of cashew (Anacardium occidentalis) to three concentrations of Indole Butyric Acid (IBA) and scion types

Cashew is an important tree crop with huge export potential and economic benefits. Seed propagation is a major problem because it takes the crop a much longer time to reach edible maturity compared to vegetative propagation. In addition, true-to-type plants cannot be assured through seed propagation. This experiment was conducted to determine the effects of different concentrations of IBA and three scion types on the graft success of cashews. The experimental design for the study was 4 x 3 factorial arrangements in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The first factor was IBA at four different concentrations (0 ml, 750 ml, 1000 ml, and 1250 ml). The second factor was scion types at three levels (soft, semi-hard, and hardwood, respectively). Semi-hardwood cuttings treated with 1250 ml concentration of IBA took shorter days (13 days) to achieve graft success and had the highest percentage graft-take. For all the vegetative parameters studied (plant height, stem girth, number of leaves, root biomass and root length), semi-hardwood cuttings which were treated with 1250 ml concentration of IBA gave the best recordings and also had the highest percentage of survived seedlings after transplanting. In conclusion, for a successful graft success coupled with the corresponding growth of the seedlings, it is best to use 1250 ml of IBA concentration with semi-hardwood scion. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 132-145, December 202

Evaluation of the organoleptic characteristics of chocolate made with cocoa beans from three main production areas in Côte d\u27Ivoire

To evaluate the quality of chocolate produced with Ivorian cocoa beans, the study was carried out in the country\u27s three main production areas (East, Centre-West, and South-West). The project involved collecting data on fermentation times and sourcing samples of cocoa beans from which chocolate had been produced and tasted. The findings of this study indicate that the average fermentation time for cocoa beans is identical across all regions. The observed values (5.30 days in the East, 5.0 days in the Center-West, and 5.04 days in the South-West) are below the recommended 6-day threshold for optimal fermentation. The chocolate produced from the collected beans has been found to have favourable organoleptic characteristics, as evidenced by the low bitterness ratings revealed in the tasting tests. Acidity and astringency are very low and aroma is average. The correlation study between fermentation time and organoleptic characteristics demonstrated that only bitterness (y = -0.2926x + 4.0115; r = 0.62; p < 0.01) and aroma (y = 0.1619x + 2.1324; r = 0.5139; p < 0.01) of chocolate were significantly influenced by fermentation time. Therefore, cocoa from Côte d\u27Ivoire is suitable for use in the production of high-quality chocolate. However, fermenting the beans for 6 days would be beneficial to achieve a superior quality chocolate product. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 53-61, December 202

Establishment of an effective photobioreactor for growing microalgae: A review

The premise that microalgae could be used to produce landscapes of biofuel, nutrition, and bioremediation is gaining popularity. The four main factors influential to microalgae growth are light, CO2, nutrients, and process conditions-including temperature and pH. Compared to other open systems such as ponds, control and efficiency in flat plate and tubular type photobioreactors are much higher. A photobioreactor needs to be developed to enhance the mass transport, and light penetration, and to reduce contamination. Every kind of photobioreactor has its advantages and limitations in using the airlift, bubble column, and stirred tank. Thus, the use of hybrid bioreactors makes it possible to eliminate individual limitations. This review discusses and analyzes the features of photobioreactor systems, their drawbacks, and the progress achieved in the field of microalgae production. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 153-162, December 202

The consistency of vitamin B12 in marketed microalgae powders

Vitamin B12 is a water nutrient that plays a key role, in DNA replication and the production of red blood cells as well as maintaining proper neuron function in the body system. Insufficient levels of this vitamin can result in health complications like megaloblastic anemia. At times, microalgal powders have surfaced as a source of vitamin B12. The purpose of this study is to investigate the amount of active vitamin B12 in microalgae with a specific focus on commercially available strains, like Chlorella sp. and Nannochloropsis gaditana. The research discovered that Chlorella sp. and N. gaditana powders have vitamin B12 levels of, up to 2.1 µ/g whereas Spirulina powders contain pseudo vitamin B12 than active B12. Collectively speaking Chlorella sp. and N. gaditana serve as good sources of active vitamin B12 while Spirulina seems to be less potent due, to its high pseudo-vitamin B12 content. This research highlights the promise of powders, like Chlorella sp. and N. gaditana as sources of accessible vitamin B12 that may contribute to addressing nutritional gaps in diets. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 146-152, December 202

Comprehensive assessment of physicochemical quality, heavy metals, and ecological risks in the Someshwari river water, Netrokona, Bangladesh

This study aimed to assess the physicochemical quality of water, the presence of toxic heavy metals, and the associated ecological risk in the trans-boundary of the Someshwari River as it enters Bangladesh through Netrokona District. Samples were collected over the period from June 2021 to May 2022 from five distinct locations. The investigation examined the current status of various physicochemical parameters of the water, including color, odor, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), biological oxygen demand (BOD), electric conductivity (EC), total dissolved solids (TDS), and alkalinity, as well as the concentrations of heavy metals (Pb, Cd, Cr, Cu, and Mn). The findings of the study revealed that temperature, pH, DO, BOD, TDS, EC, and total alkalinity were within established standard limits. The pH values across all water samples exhibited variation within the range of 7.60 to 7.80. Additionally, the concentrations of Pb, Cd, Cu and Mn were found to be within acceptable levels. Notably, no detectable levels of Cr were identified in the river water throughout the three seasons. The HPI values were within the acceptable range, with a range of 42.68 to 92.10 during the pre-monsoon, 26.60 to 48.71 during the monsoon, and 5.57 to 98.00 during the post-monsoon seasons, respectively. Similarly, the HEI values indicated a low level of contamination, with variations from 0.21 to 20.30 in the pre-monsoon, 0.63 to 22.27 in the monsoon, and 5.01 to 33.12 in the post-monsoon seasons, respectively. Mean CD values consistently indicated a lower level of pollution across all three seasons. In summary, the results of this investigation suggest that the water quality in the designated area is suitable for various uses. However, to maintain this water quality, it is strongly recommended that effective awareness programs be implemented to prevent water pollution. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 44-52, December 202

Farmers’ knowledge of using flood forecast information in fish farming: A case of rural Bangladesh

The effects of global climate change and extreme weather events are threatening Bangladesh\u27s fish and aquaculture productivity. Given the negative consequences of climate change, both the national and international societies concur that mitigating the effects of climatic unpredictability and change requires the development of weather and climate services. Additionally, if forecasting data is expertly adapted to fish farmers\u27 requirements, they may be better able to handle and adjust to climatic and climatic-induced stressors. The primary goal of the study was to determine how much fish farmers knew about using flood forecast information regarding fish farming. Three villages in the Union Islampur upazila, which is part of the Jamalpur district, were the sites of the study: Kulkandi, Chinaduli, and North-Bamna. A sample of 95 randomly chosen fish farmers (about 25% of the total population) out of 380 fish farmers provided the data. Focus groups, matrix ranking, and key informant interviews were among the qualitative and quantitative techniques used in the study\u27s research methodology. In order to collect both quantitative and qualitative data, formal and semi-structured questionnaires were created. The majority of farmers (53.90%) had a medium level of knowledge, followed by high knowledge (31.57%), and poor knowledge (14.74%) about the use of forecast information in fish farming. Therefore, through a variety of interventions, including training, group discussions, demonstrations, and the distribution of printed materials, concerned authorities like the Department of Fisheries (DOF) should provide chances to increase the knowledge of fish farmers. Regression study revealed that farmers\u27 knowledge regarding using forecast information in fish farming is positively impacted by their level of education, annual earnings from fish farming, organizational participation, and sources of flood forecast information. Therefore, while creating programs and making decisions, legislators, development practitioners, extension specialists, and others should consider these aspects. Int. J. Agril. Res. Innov. Tech. 14(2): 9-19, December 202