1,527 research outputs found
VARIATION OF SOIL MORPHOLOGICAL PROPERTIES ALONG A LITHOSEQUENCE ON BASEMENT COMPLEX GEOLOGY OF NIGERIA
Morphological properties are inherent properties that expressed the nature and properties of the parent material from which soils are formed. The variation of morphological properties of soils was evaluated along a lithosequence of soils formed from schists and older granite in the basement complex geology of Nigeria. The soils were mapped and the morphological properties were described on the field following the standard procedure. The colour of soils on schists ranged from 5YR, 7.5YR to 10YR (moist) while on older granite itranged from 2.5YR, 5YR, 7.5YR to 10YR (moist), all the soils on older granite have sandy loam texture at the surface and there is increase in cohesion down the depth of the profiles of soils studied. There were variations in colour, texture and structure between the parent materials and horizons (p≤0.05). The pedogenic processes observed are: plinthization, humification, melanization, braunification, ferritization, ferralitic weathering, elluviation and illuviation (argilluviation), insitu weathering and faunal pedoturbation. The following soil management options were recommended: construction of contour ridges along with the maintenance of plant cover, utilization of wetland areas for fisheries and dry season farming, maintenance of plant cover, incorporation of crop residues and soil crusting. 
Ground flora species richness and diversity in traditional forests of southwest, Nigeria
Diversity indices of tree species in tropical rainforest have been studied, but less effort has been devoted to the ground flora studies especially in sacred groves of tropical rainforest, Nigeria, as it plays a critical role in nutrient cycling and energy flow within the forest ecosystem. This study was carried out to determine the ground flora species diversity, richness and density in five traditional forests (Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba, Igbo-Olua, Igbo-Olodumare Igbo-Gbopo) of southwestern Nigeria. The ground flora enumeration of 5 x 10m was laid at the centre of 50 x 50m laid in each of the sacred grove. All plants with dbh < 10cm were identified and the frequency of occurrence recorded. In all the Sacred Groves, a total of 14064 plants/ha individual were recorded with 80 species distributed among 36 families. Igbo-Oba had highest diversity index of 3.21, followed by Igbo-Olodumare (2.80), Igbo-Ile (2.42). The least diversity index was recorded in Igbo-Gbopo (1.97). Among the 36 families, maximum species was recorded in Sterculiaceae (10), followed by Euphorbiaceae (5), Apocynaceae (4), Combretaceae (4) and Sapindaceae (4). Among the families with lowest frequencies (1) recorded are: Acanthaceae, Araceae, Rutaceae, Sapotaceae, Solanaceae. The study concludes that anthropogenic disturbances observed, e.g. farming, spiritual engagements etc. around Igbo-Olua and Igbo-Gbopo might have contributed to low diversity index compared to Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba and Igbo-Olodumare where high diversity index was recorded. It is recommended that to maintain high diversity index in the scared groves, buffer zones should be created around the sacred groves.
Keywords: sacred grove, diversity, ground flora, herbaceou
Classification and assessment of agricultural potential of the lower Niger floodplain soils of Atani, Southeastern Nigeria
The soils of Atani floodplain in Anambra State of Nigeria contribute significantly to the food production of the State, hence the need to understand their behavior in order to enhance their management and productivity. Profile pits were sited along three physiographic units viz: levee crest, levee slope and flood basin. Soil samples were collected from the profile horizons and subjected to standard laboratory procedures. Characterization of the soils was based on their morphological, physical and chemical properties. Soil classification was carried out using the USDA Soil Taxonomy and correlated with FAO/IUSS World Reference Base. Its agricultural potential was assessed using the fertility capability classification. The soils were deep. Topsoil colour was dominantly blackish black (10YR 3/2). Mottles were pervasive; an indication of impeded drainage conditions. The soils were predominantly fine textured. Soil pH values ranged from 4.8 to 6.2. Exchangeable Calcium was low to moderate (2.6-8.2 cmol kg−1); Magnesium was moderate to high (1.6-6.8 cmol kg−1); Sodium was high to very high (1.0-2.5 cmol kg−1), while potassium was high (1.2-4.2 cmol kg−1). Cation exchange capacity values ranged from 11.6 to 42.6 cmol kg−1. Total nitrogen was very low to low (0.14-1.12 g kg−1), while organic carbon was low to moderate (0.4-15.2 g kg−1). Available phosphorus was very low to high ranging from 0.93 to 31.71 mg kg−1 while base saturation ranged from 64 to 93%. The soils were classified as Typic Fluvaquents (Typic Fluvisols), Fluvaquentic Endoaquepts (Endostagnic Cambisols) and Fluventic Endoaquepts (Endostagnic Cambisols) according to the USDA and FAO/IUSS. The fertility capability evaluation of the soils revealed that the pedons were Lgn in classification due to limitations in drainage.
Key words: alluvium, cambic horizon, Inceptisols, lithologic discontinuit
Vertisols and associated soils: Bibliographic database with special reference to sub-Saharan Africa
Ground Flora Species Richness and Diversity in Traditional Forests of Southwest, Nigeria
Diversity indices of tree species in tropical rainforest have been
studied, but less effort has been devoted to the ground flora studies
especially in sacred groves of tropical rainforest, Nigeria, as it
plays a critical role in nutrient cycling and energy flow within the
forest ecosystem. This study was carried out to determine the ground
flora species diversity, richness and density in five traditional
forests (Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba, Igbo-Olua, Igbo-Olodumare Igbo-Gbopo) of
southwestern Nigeria. The ground flora enumeration of 5 x 10m was laid
at the centre of 50 x 50m laid in each of the sacred grove. All plants
with dbh 64 10cm were identified and the frequency of occurrence
recorded. In all the Sacred Groves, a total of 14064 plants/ha
individual were recorded with 80 species distributed among 36 families.
Igbo-Oba had highest diversity index of 3.21, followed by
Igbo-Olodumare (2.80), Igbo-Ile (2.42). The least diversity index was
recorded in Igbo-Gbopo (1.97). Among the 36 families, maximum species
was recorded in Sterculiaceae (10), followed by Euphorbiaceae (5),
Apocynaceae (4), Combretaceae (4) and Sapindaceae (4). Among the
families with lowest frequencies (1) recorded are: Acanthaceae,
Araceae, Rutaceae, Sapotaceae, Solanaceae. The study concludes that
anthropogenic disturbances observed, e.g. farming, spiritual
engagements etc. around Igbo-Olua and Igbo-Gbopo might have contributed
to low diversity index compared to Igbo-Ile, Igbo-Oba and
Igbo-Olodumare where high diversity index was recorded. It is
recommended that to maintain high diversity index in the scared groves,
buffer zones should be created around the sacred groves
Suitability Assessment of Soils around Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria (FRIN), Ibadan for Maize Production: A Parametric Analyses
The sustainable use of soil resources requires extensive knowledge about its morphology and other properties. The study was carried out to evaluate the suitability of soils for maize production in Forestry Research Institute of Nigeria’s (FRIN), environment, Ibadan, using the parametric method. Four profile pits were dug, described and the soil samples collected and analyzed for particle size distribution, pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available phosphorus, exchangeable acidity, exchangeable bases and extractable micro nutrients. The textures of the soils were loamy sand, sandy loam and sandy clay loam which varied in response to changes in slope and drainage position. The soil’s pH ranged from strong to slightly acidity (4.32 – 6.75). Organic matter (17.2 -61.2g kg-1), total exchangeable base and total nitrogen (0.7 – 3.1g kg-1) were high, while the extractable micro nutrients; Fe (37 – 67mg kg-1), Cu (7 – 13mg kg-1), Mn (5 – 142mg kg-1) and Zn (38 -134mg kg-1) were at toxic level. Suitability evaluation of the soil using parametric approach shows that the soils are presently not suitable (NS) for the cultivation of maize, while, the potential of suitability of the soil for maize cultivation was ranked marginally suitable (S3). The soils of the study area were classified as Egbeda association which is not currently suitable for maize production, because of its present status. However, the soils suitability potential can be improved through conservative agronomic practices and also to prevent rapid degradation
Application of soil indigenous knowledge in rural communities of eastern South Africa.
Doctoral Degree. University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg.This study investigated ethnopedological knowledge related to classification, fertility and non-agricultural uses of soil in four villages in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape, South Africa. Ethnographic methods elicited general soil indigenous knowledge. Ethnopedologic techniques gathered understanding of soil taxonomy, mapping and fertility, and selection and use of healing, cosmetic and geophagic soils. Local assessments of soil fertility and mapping were compared to scientific approaches. Soil samples were analysed for physicochemical properties. Soils used for non-agricultural purposes were analysed by X-ray diffraction and X-ray fluorescence spectrometry.
Local classifications were based on observable soil morphological properties. Soil maps produced by farmers in areas with distinct geomorphic units closely correlated with scientific maps; on a floodplain the correlation was poor. Farmers assessed soil fertility using both crop and soil variables. There was poor correlation between farmers’ fertility classes and laboratory data. Farmers understood soil-crop associations which formed the basis for their soil suitability assessment and have developed specific soil use and management practices.
Two soil types were identified for non-agricultural uses. Ukhethe, used for agriculture, was also used for geophagy; ibomvu for sun protection, healing and cosmetics. Geophagic soils were mainly saprolite from Leptosols. They were mostly fine-grained, had bright Munsell hues, contained mica, kaolinite, quartz and iron oxides, and elements such as Cu, Zn, Co and Pb. Ibomvu occurred in Ferralsols and was red to dark-red. Despite low sun protection factors, critical wavelengths >370 nm, the presence of TiO2 and high Fe2O3 explained its sun protection ability. The soil was fine grained, had low pH and exchangeable bases, and contained kaolinite that possibly explained its healing role.
These communities applied their pedological knowledge to soil use and management. There were diverse non-agricultural uses and possible land use conflicts where a soil has more than one use. Farmers classified soils at levels that could be incorporated as higher categories in the current South African system. Farmer fertility assessment could benefit from laboratory data. Soil suitability classification systems should be used to assess both agricultural and non- agricultural uses. Valuing all local uses of soil will ensure fair and relevant land use planning
Soil physicochemical properties as influenced by persistent herbicide weed control in some communities in Ondo State, Nigeria
This study identified areas where different types of herbicide were used for municipal weed control in selected residential communities in Akure, Akungba-Akoko and Owo in Ondo State, Nigeria. A survey of the communities was carried out to identify sites maintained with herbicides (test sites) and those without herbicide history (control sites). Composite soil samples collected from each site were analyzed using standard laboratory procedures for the determination of selected soil physical and chemical properties. The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis of variance (ANOVA). Results obtained indicated that the soil texture of the study sites were mostly sandy loam while pH ranged from slightly acidic to neutral. Significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the organic carbon (OC) contents of soil samples from Owo as against the samples from Akure and Akungba-Akoko though Owo had the highest OC (24.48 ± 9.36 g kg-1) followed by Akungba-Akoko (21.21 ± 10.36 g kg-1) and Akure (18.10 ± 7.75 kg-1) which was the lowest. However, no significant differences (P < 0.05) were observed in the values of the micronutrients and exchangeable cations across all the sites. Conclusively, application of herbicides to weeds did not have significant effect on the soil fertility (in all the sites) in the short run (2013 - 2015) but more aggressive application could have deleterious effects in the long run because leaching is encouraged as a result of the sandy nature and low organic carbon content of the soil in the study areas.Keywords: Herbicides, weeds, soil, physicochemical propertie
Suitability Evaluation of Selected Wetland Soils in Nigeria for Rainfed Rice Cultivation
Thirty-eight wetland soils in four agro-ecological
zones were evaluated for their suitability for rice
(Oryza sativa L.) cultivation. The results indicated that
climatic characteristics are near optimum. Currently,
by non-parametric method, most (≥ 97%) of the
pedons were found to be marginally suitable (S3).
With the parametric method about 3% were highly
suitable (S1), 74% marginally suitable (S3) and 23%
not suitable (NS). Potentially by non-parametric
method, 18% were of high (S1) and moderate (S2)
suitabilities respectively, 58% were marginally suitable
(S3) and 6% not suitable (NS). With parametric
method, 24% were highly suitable (S1), 45 and 31%
were of moderate (S2) and marginal (S3) suitabilities.
The major limitations to rice cultivation on these soils
are low CEC, organic carbon, exchangeable cations
and available P, which may predispose rice plants to
excessive Fe2+ uptake visually expressed as «bronzing
» or «yellowing» symptoms. In this and similar
environments in the region, good soil management is
required before substantial improvement in rice production
can be achieved
Pedogenesis Dan Klasifikasi Tanah Sub-Das Peusangan Hilir Berdasarkan Sistem Klasifikasi Taksonomi Tanah Dan Fao-Unesco
Perubahan tutupan lahan dan penggunaan lahan secara intensif di Sub-Daerah Aliran Sungai (sub-DAS) Krueng Peusangan Hilir dapat berimplikasi pada perubahan sifat-sifat tanah. Penelitian ini bertujuan mempelajari pedogenesis dan mengklasifikan tanah di sub-DAS Peusangan Hilir berdasarkan sistem klasifikasi taksonomi tanah dan berdasarkan FAO-UNESCO. Data-data morfologi tanah dikumpulkan dari hasil identifikasi dua profil tanah pewakil di area studi yaitu profil GM-1 dan CB-2. Data-data sifat fisika dan kimia tanah diperoleh dari hasil analisis contoh tanah di laboratorium. Beberapa contoh tanah dimaksud  diambil dari setiap horison pada kedua profil tanah pewakil tersebut. Seluruh data tanah diinterpretasi untuk mengetahui proses pedogenesis yang terjadi, serta untuk mengklasifikasi tanah pada kedua profil dimaksud berdasarkan sistim klasifikasi taksonomi tanah (order hingga sub-group) dan FAO-UNESCO (great-group dan sub-group). Hasil penelitian menunjukkan adanya perbedaan sifat-sifat morfologi, fisika, dan kimia tanah antar kedua profil GM-1 dan CB-2. Proses pedogenesis yang dijumpai di area studi meliputi pencucian, erosi, braunifikasi/rubifikasi dan lessivage, proses pencucian, erosi dan lessivage hanya ditemukan pada profil CB-2. Berdasarkan sistim klasifikasi taksonomi tanah untuk kategori order, sub-order, great-group, sub-group, profil GM-1 termasuk Entisols, Psamment, Ustipsamments dan Aridic Ustipsamments. Profil CB-2 tergolong Ultisols, Ustult, Haplustult, dan Kanhaplic Haplustult. Jenis tanah menurut sistim klasifikasi tanah FAO-UNESCO untuk kategori great-group dan sub-group profil GM-1 masing-masing adalah Fulvisols dan Eutric Fluvisols, dan profil CB-2 Acrisols dan Haplic Acrisols
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