Exploring the role of seaweed culture in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions in the atmosphere: a nature-based solution for climate change mitigation

To keep the world safe from extreme temperature occurrences, global warming must be kept below 1.5C. Seaweed has emerged as a holistic nature-based solution to solve global warming by reducing greenhouse gases (GHGs). This review evaluated the role of seaweed in reducing GHGs. Seaweed can minimise carbon (C) emissions by absorbing them. Lowering ruminant enteric methane (CH4) emissions and producing bioenergy are two more ways seaweed can contribute to global decarbonisation. Atmospheric trace gases like nitrous oxide (N2O) are a factor in global warming. By 2050, 10 million metric tons (MMt) of nitrogen (N) would be absorbed by a seaweed yield of 500 MMt. All macroalgae release the volatile gas bromoform, which contributes to ozone (O3) depletion in the atmosphere. Bromoform is a component of red seaweed’s chemical composition. Largescale seaweed cultivation can transform the way GHG emissions are managed while also generating new businesses. Furthermore, eutrophic, hypoxic, and acidic coasts can gain other advantages from seaweed cultivation. Although seaweed offsetting is a vital emerging tool for achieving a more sustainable future, it is not the only answer to the problem of climate change. This study demonstrates that seaweed cultivation and related sectors are viable solutions for lowering GHG emissions, achieving monetary growth, and creating sustainable means of subsistence

Plant diversity at selected dumpsites in Abakaliki: exploring species tolerance and carbon storage functions

The aim of this study was to determine the species diversity and carbon storage potential of herbaceous plants growing within selected dumpsites in the Abakaliki metropolis. The line transect method was used to collect plants from five study stations: Waterworks (A), Kpirikpiri (B), Newlayout (C), FETHA (D) and Presco (E). At each study station, a 15 m×30 m area was measured using tape and demarcated with pegs and ropes. The identified species were collected, the biomass, species frequency, density, dominance, diversity and carbon uptake were measured. The diversity indices evaluated showed that active dump station A was the most diverse and evenly distributed site (Shannon–Weiner diversity index: A=2.43, B=1.09, C=1.16, D=1.14, E=0.99, Pileou’s evenness index, A=1.53, B=0.70, C=0.68, D=0.66, E=0.69). Additionally, at station D, Simpson’s dominance (A=0.27, B=0.32, C=0.24, D=0.43, E=0.10) and Magalef (species richness) indices (A=1.7, B=4.07, C=3.75, D=4.20, E=3.38) were the highest. The herbaceous Ghomphrena celeisoides had the highest relative dominance, relative frequency and important value index across the studied stations. Analysis of variance of the carbon uptake potentials of species showed significant values for abandoned dump stations C (Newlayout) and D (FETHA) when p<0.05. Therefore, total sequestered carbon in stations C (F=15.97, p<0.001) and D (F=8.33, p<0.001) and sequestered carbon dioxide equivalent at stations C (F=15.96, p<0.001) and D (F=43.68, p<0.001) were significant at 95％ confidence level. The results indicate that species at dormant waste disposal sites sequester significant amounts of carbon; therefore, they are recommended for the phytoremediation of disturbed or destroyed ecosystems

Winter wheat yield depending on different soil tillage systems in short-term crop rotations under Black Sea region conditions

A crop rotation system with optimal placement and saturation of leading agricultural crops can improve the environmental conditions of the surrounding environment and increase the agricultural efficiency. Therefore, solving this task is relevant both scientifically and practically, especially in the current conditions of deteriorating environmental conditions in Ukraine. The development of environmentally safe technologies for the competitive production of high-quality crop products in the Black Sea Steppe. The primary method was fieldwork, supplemented by analytical studies, measurements, calculations, and observations according to generally accepted methodologies and guidelines in agriculture and crop production. This study focused on crop rotation systems and primary soil tillage systems. This study examined the impact of different primary soil tillage systems on the yield of winter wheat and oats in a shortrotation system. For the 1st and 4th crops, the most favourable conditions for winter wheat yield formation were observed when it was planted after black fallow and green manure fallow with winter vetch. In these cases, almost identical grain yields were recorded, averaging 3.98 and 4.08 t/ha for the 1st crop and 3.29 and 3.16 t/ha for the 4th crop. The differences in yield were not significant. For the 2nd crop, when comparing yield with the control (black fallow), an increase in yield was observed in the background of green manure fallow with winter vetch. The increase of 6.9% was statistically significant. The no-till system of primary soil cultivation provided the best conditions for the formation of winter wheat grain yield in the 1st, 2nd, and 4th crops, with increases of 10.4, 6.9, and 5.4%, respectively, compared to conventional tillage. In the experimental variants, for the 1st and 4th crops, green manure fallow with winter vetch affected winter wheat yield, almost at the level of black fallow. For the 2nd crop, green manure fallow with winter vetch showed a clear advantage. Across all winter wheat crops, a positive impact on yield formation was observed with the no-till system. This system resulted in the highest yield compared to other soil tillage systems

Investigating the potential use of plant-based compounds as environmentally friendly management strategies for controlling root knot nematodes in cabbage crops

Vegetables are infected by root knot nematodes, especially Meloidogyne incognita, which results in both quantitative and qualitative losses. This study’s objective was to assess the effectiveness of plant extracts from Senna alata and Tamarindus indica in controlling cabbage-infecting root knot nematodes. The experiment was carried out to determine the effect of aqueous and powdered extracts of T. indica and S. alata on the control of root knot nematodes in two cabbage varieties. The test plants underwent phytochemical screening. Data were gathered on plant height, shoot weight, root weight, yield and soil nematode populations. All numerical data were subjected to analysis of variance using the GENSTAT statistical programme. Treating F1 Majesty and F1 Minotaur with powdered T. indica extract resulted in a significantly better (p>0.05) growth and yield (62.77 cm and 53.77 cm) than the other treatments. Significant variations were found between the shoot, root and yield weights of treated plants and their control counterparts. The positive control had the highest number of galled roots in both varieties (6.25 and 8.27). The treated plants performed much better than the control plants. The experiment also revealed some compounds, such as hexadecanoic, butyric and octadecadienoic acid. Based on this study’s findings, it is advisable to make use of these botanicals (T. indica and S. alata) on root knot-infested farms, as they are cheap, available and eco-friendly alternatives to chemical nematicides, which are expensive and not environmentally friendly

Influence of paclobutrazol concentrations, soil types and production seasons on physicochemical attributes of Keitt mangoes

Mango is an important fruit with nutritional and economic benefits. However, the impact of varying paclobutrazol (PBZ) concentrations, soil types, and production seasons on its quality is less known in the literature. This study investigated the effects of varying PBZ concentrations, soil types, and production seasons on the quality of Keitt mangoes, aiming to optimise fruit attributes for both domestic and export markets. Conducted over three years in the Eastern Region of Ghana, this study had a 5×3×3 factorial design, with 5 PBZ concentrations (0, 10, 12.5, 20, and 25 mL), 3 soil types (Agawtaw, Akuse, and Baraku), and 3 production seasons (major, minor, and off-season). PBZ application had a concentration-dependent influence on the physical attributes of Keitt mango fruit, particularly fruit size, density, and firmness. Lower PBZ concentrations (0–12.5 mL) improved fruit size and total soluble solids (TSS) content, while higher concentrations (20–25 mL) reduced these parameters. Soil fertility played a key role, with fertile soils, such as Agawtaw, producing larger, heavier fruit with higher TSS and moisture contents. Seasonal variations also influenced the outcomes, with the major season favouring optimal fruit development due to favourable climatic conditions. Non-treated trees (0 mL PBZ) produced the largest and heaviest fruit, while the 25 mL PBZ treatment increased fruit firmness and extended the shelf life by reducing the total titratable acidity. The study emphasises the need to tailor PBZ applications to soil fertility and seasonal factors to achieve the desired fruit quality. These findings offer valuable insights for mango growers, promoting sustainable practices that enhance yield, quality, and economic viability in Keitt mango production to meet the growing global demand

Morpho-functional adaptations of the tiger skull (Panthera tigris) in relation to forceful biting

The anatomical peculiarities of the tiger’s skull reflect the ecological and behavioural needs of this predator. The study aims to observe the morphological adaptations that grant it exceptional hunting and survival abilities. The anatomical study was conducted on the skulls of two adult male tigers. The tiger’s skull is wide and rounded, providing a robust base for the attachment of masticatory muscles, which is essential for powerful bites. The sagittal crest, a bony prominence located on the upper part of the skull, serves as an attachment point for the temporal muscles. A distinct process is present on the maxillary tubercle, from which a strong tendon of the masseter muscle originates. The nasal bones are elongated, extending beyond the frontal processes of the maxillae, while the frontal area is elevated in the region of the postorbital processes. The anterior nasal opening is narrow, and the lower margin of the mandible is typically concave, with a prominent mental process. The front part of the mandibular symphysis is concave. Compared to other large felines, tigers have a more rounded skull and a downward-sloping dorsal surface. The tiger’s skull exhibits remarkable morpho-functional adaptations, such as a robust bony head, a prominent sagittal crest, a strong mandible, and well-developed insertions for masticatory muscles. These features are essential for their predatory lifestyle, allowing them to capture and control large prey efficiently

Growth and seed yield responses of two soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) varieties to coconut water priming

Soybean is an essential legume that is increasingly valued for its nutritious oil and protein contents. Despite the benefits derived from soybean, low seed viability and inconsistent germination are major production setbacks. The objective of this study was to determine the effect of seed priming agents on the growth and yield of two soybean varieties (Favour and Afayak). The research used a 2 × 5 factorial randomised complete block design with three replications. The soybean variety at 2 levels was the first factor (Favour and Afayak), and the second factor involved 5 priming treatments: 4 h of water (20°C), 6 h of water, 4 h of coconut water, 6 h of coconut water, and no priming. Coconut water priming significantly enhanced germination, with the Favour variety achieving the highest rate (75.5%) after 4 h of priming. Water priming for 4 h was most effective in enhancing plant height, stem girth and leaf development in the Afayak variety. Yield was maximised in Afayak primed with coconut water for 6 h (2520 kg/ha), while Favour primed for 4 h produced the highest number of pods (135.5). Regression analysis revealed that the growth parameters and germination percentage accounted for 95% of seed yield variation. The study concludes that coconut water is an effective priming agent, enhancing germination, growth and yield and recommends 4-h coconut water priming for Favour and 6-h priming for Afayak to optimise production

Health risk assessment of lead in dairy products from various environments in Egypt

Milk and dairy products are nutritious foods that are beneficial to human health at all life stages and provide essential nutrients required by the body. However, despite their importance, these products are susceptible to contamination by toxic environmental pollutants, such as lead (Pb), originating from surrounding environmental sources. This study aimed to evaluate the potential health risks associated with Pb exposure in adults and children through the consumption of contaminated milk and dairy products from various locations in Egypt using estimated daily intake, target hazard quotient, and excess cancer risk metrics. The data indicated that the daily intake (DI) of Pb in the raw milk samples ranged from 131.6 to 557.9 μg in industrial areas, 107.7 to 456.6 μg in traffic areas, and 35.8 to 151.7 μg in rural areas. In contrast, the DI of Pb in sterilised milk ranged from 19.3 to 82.0 μg in industrial areas, 17.9 to 75.7 μg in traffic areas, and 16.0 to 67.8 μg in rural areas. For processed cheese, values ranging from 2.0 to 2.4, 2.5 to 2.9, and 2.4 to 2.8 μg were found across these areas, respectively. The mean DI values of Pb were 70.1, 59.7, and 11.5 μg for Domiati cheese samples and 112.2, 103.7, and 481.6 μg for Ras cheese from industrial, traffic, and rural areas, respectively. The measured health risk indices showed no significant risks associated with the consumption of the dairy products examined, except for raw milk, particularly when consumed in large quantities from industrial and traffic areas. Purchasing raw milk from contaminated industrial or traffic zones should be avoided to limit its consumption, particularly for children

Effect of feeding selected farm residues on growth performance, digestibility and nitrogen balance of West African dwarf bucks

This study investigated the effects of feeding selected farm residues on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and nitrogen balance of West African dwarf (WAD) bucks. A total of 16 bucks aged 16–18 months and weighing 14.45 ± 0.78 kg were randomly assigned to 4 dietary treatments: control, cacao pod shells (T1); peanut shells (T2), corn cobs (T3), and mixed residues of cacao pod shells, peanut shells, and corn cobs in equal proportions (T4). This study spanned 92 days, during which feed intake, weight gain, digestibility, and nitrogen utilisation were evaluated. The T2 diet significantly enhanced growth performance, with the highest final weight (19.8 ± 0.20 kg), weight gain (5.30 ± 0.15 kg), and average daily gain (57.6 ± 1.2 g/day). The nutrient intake and digestibility were also highest in the T2 group, with a crude protein intake of 131 g/day and crude protein digestibility of 78.2%. Similarly, nitrogen retention was greatest in T2 bucks (13.7 ± 0.4 g/day), reflecting efficient protein utilisation. The findings suggest that peanut shells are a highly digestible and nutrient-rich feed resource, offering significant advantages over the control and other treatments. By improving growth rates, feed efficiency, and nitrogen balance, peanut shells provide a cost-effective and sustainable solution for smallholder farmers facing feed shortages. These results support the adoption of farm residues as alternative feed resources to enhance the productivity and economic viability of small ruminant farming systems in West Africa

Actual crop coefficients and yield response factors of irrigated tomato in Afaka, Northwest Nigeria

In the face of the prevailing challenges of limited water for irrigated agriculture, the knowledge of crop coefficients for use in irrigation, and the yield response to moisture stresses become pertinent for developing strategies to improve agricultural water productivity. Field experiments were conducted to evaluate the crop coefficients and yield response factors of UC 82B tomato subjected to soil moisture stresses on growth-stage basis. The irrigation treatments investigated were: a full irrigation (application of 100% ETo), and three soil moisture deficit levels (20%, 40%, 60% ETo) imposed at the vegetative, flowering and maturity growth stages, in successions. The mean crop coefficient (Kc) was highest (0.99) during the mid-season under full irrigation, and lowest (0.47) during the vegetative stage under 60% ETo soil moisture deficit, while the mean value across the entire crop growth stage was 0.88. The yield response factors (Ky) were 1.26 and 1.30 for the 2017/2018 and 2018/2019 seasons, respectively. The mean Ky of was 1.28 for the entire growth cycle, implying high sensitivity of the tomato cultivar to water deficits, and that yield reduction is proportionally larger when water used is reduced because of stress. Full irrigation at the maturity stage is recommended