Jsau Logo

PREVALENCE OF PESTE DES PETITS RUMINANTS IN THE CHUADANGA DISTRICT OF BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 137-141

Peste des petits ruminant (PPR) is goat’s most fatal infectious disease. The study aimed to describe the prevalence of PPR in goats in the Chuadanga district of Bangladesh. This study was conducted in this area using clinical history and clinical examination of the animals. A total of 250 goats were randomly selected for this study, irrespective of age, sex, breed, and immune status. There were common findings such as high fever, nasolacrimal discharge, mucosal ulceration and erosion in the oral cavity, rapid breathing, and diarrhea during the clinical examination of the PPR-affected goats. The overall prevalence of PPR was 44%. The higher prevalence was observed significantly (P=0.006) in 7-12 months age group (52.85%) compared to 0-6 months age group (40.48%) and >12 months age group (25.58%). Male (35.96%) goats were less prone to PPR than females (50.74%), and Black Bengal goats had a higher affinity (45.60%) than Jamnapari (39.71%). Non-vaccinated goats were highly prevalent (47.89%) to PPR than vaccinated (31.67%). The highest prevalence was found in March (48.72%) and most of the cases (41.81%) were treated with Oxytetracycline, antihistamine, and fluid therapy. These findings may exert awareness of farmers regarding PPR for goat rearing.


Keywords: PPR, Goat, Prevalence, Animal, Chuadanga


EFFECT OF DIFFERENT LIGHT INTENSITIES ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE SERUM BIOCHEMISTRY, AND BEHAVIOR OF BROILER CHICKENS


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 143-148

This study aimed to asses the different light intensities’ effect on performance, serum biochemical Variables, and behavior of broiler chickens. 1200 newly hatched broiler chicks were randomly assigned to 1 of 6 light intensity treatments in 24-floor pens of 4.2 m* per pen at 42 days. The treatments consisted of 5, 10, 20, and 30 lux as constant during the whole study and the subsequent changes of light intensity were 30-20-10 and 20-10-5 lux that was altered after each rearing period. The results showed that body weight gain, feed intake, and FCR were unaffected by the treatments at 11, 25, and 42 days and overall period of 0 to 42 days of age. The serum biochemical parameters did not alter by the treatments. When the behavioral expressions were assessed during the entire study, light of varying intensities affected time spent on sitting, standing and pecking activity. Spending less time in an inactive behavior (sitting plus standing) was observed under 30 lux, while spending more time in an active behavior (walking plus pecking) was observed under the 20-10-35 lux treated group. Thus, the results obtained from the study suggested that growth performance and serum biochemical constituents did not differ with variations of light intensity, but varying light intensities had executed minor effects on the behavior of broilers. It can also be concluded that constant light intensity of not more than 5 lux or subsequent changes in light intensity could be applied in broiler farms without any adverse effects.


Keywords: Behavior; Light intensity; Performance; Serum quality


EFFECTS OF DRINKING WATER TEMPERATURE ON THE GROWTH, MEAT QUALITY, AND SERUM BIOCHEMICAL INDICES OF BROILER CHICKENS UNDER HOT-HUMID CONDITIONS IN SUMMER


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 149-156

This study evaluated the effects of drinking water temperature during the summer period on growth performance, meat quality, and serum biochemical traits in growing broilers. A total of 360 Cobb 500 broilers with uniform body weight aged 21 days were assigned to 3 treatments and 8 replicates of 15 birds cach. Three groups were treated with drinking water, including ordinary room temperature tap water, and two fixed temperature water of 15.4°C and 24.3°C. The duration of the trial ranged from 22 to 35 days. Before the commencement of the study, all the broilers (400-day-old chicks) were fed commercial pre- starter (3050 kcal/kg ME, 22.50% CP) and starter (3100 kcal/kg ME, 20.50% CP) diet for the first 7 days and the next 14 days. The finisher dict containing 3200 kcal/kg of ME and 18.5% CP was fed up during the trial period. Results showed that the body weight gain (BWG) and feed intake (FI) were influenced (P < 0.01) by the drinking water temperature of 15.4°C and 24.3°C as compared to ordinary tap water. The highest body weight and feed intake were observed in the 15.4°C drinking water temperature group. But no consistent difference in BWG between the 15.4°C and 24.3°C water temperature group was observed. The treatments did not alter the color of the meat except for yellowness and other meat quality parameters. Moreover, no differences were found in the fatty acid composition of breast and thigh meat. Significantly (P < 0.05) lower glucose and higher alanine aminotransferase concentration in serum were found in the group treated with 15.4°C water. These results indicated that drinking water temperature below the ambient level during summer can effectively improve the growth performance, meat quality and maintaining homeostasis balance.


Keywords: Broiler; Water temperature; Meat quality; Serum; Summer season


GROWTH ANALYSIS OF AGAR PLANTS AT DIFFERENT AGES AND CHARACTERISTICS OF PLANTATION GARDEN SOIL


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 157-166

The experiment was carried out from April to September 2018 in Sujanagar village in Barlekha upazila of Moulvibazar district to observe the growth and biomass of the agar plants ranging from 1 to 15 years of age and soils characteristics of the plantation areas. Fifteen agar gardens were selected, and data were collected from 20 sample plants from each garden on growth, biomass, and soil nutrients. The plant height from bottom to top ranged from 1.11 m to 10.21 m, while it was 0.57 m to 4.80 m for the bottom to collar region height. The measured plant circumference ranges from 2.64 to 56.97 cm at the base (20 cm above ground level) and 1.59 to 32.27 cm at the collar region. The trend was similar for plant diameter, which ranges from 0.90 to 14.23 cm at the base and 0.53 to 9.14 cm at the collar region. The diameter at breast height ranges from 1.42 cm in to 12.32 cm in a 15 years old plants. From a 3 years old plants 3 years old plants to 15 years old plants, the estimated biomass ranges from 16 to 44 kg plant™. The plant height, branches, circumference, and biomass were found to increase in early-aged plants but became slow after eight (08) years. The pH of the soil was acidic (pH value ranging from 4.1 to 4.8), with organic matter ranging from 1.0 to 3.0% and N (%) from 0.09 to 0.15%. Available phosphorus and sulfur were found to be below the critical levels, with phosphorus ranging from 2.0 to 10.0 ppm and available sulfur ranging from 3.0 to 9.0 ppm. In the plantations, the exchangeable potassium ranged between 0.10 and 0.25 meqg/ 100g soil. The nutrient availability was found to be very low, which limits biomass production.


Keywords: Aquilaria malaccensis, Agar, Growth analysis, Plant age, Biomass.


ATTITUDE OF THE PERI-URBAN WOMEN TOWARD HOMESTEAD GARDENING


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 167-175

The main objective of the study was to determine the attitude of the peri-urban women towards homestead gardening. The study was conducted in two peri-urban areas —namely, Jahanpur and Sayedpur at the premises of Sadar upazila of Sylhet district. Data were collected from 100 women following a simple random sampling technique from a population of 1624 women using a pretested well-structured questionnaire interview schedule from 26 April through 30 May, 2018. Attitude was measured on 24 statements mainly constructed on cognitive, affective, conative, and evaluative issues of homestead gardening. Scoring for each positive statement was done on the basis of response of the respondent by assigning +2, +1, 0, -1, and -2 to the five alternative responses as “strongly agree”, “agree”, “undecided”, “disagree”, and “strongly disagree” fashion. A reverse score was assigned for a negative statement. Findings indicated that 57% of the respondents were middle-aged, 49% had a secondary level of education, 65% of them had medium family size, and the majority (67%) had medium knowledge about gardening. The respondents had no training experience (48%), very low organizational participation (86%), and medium cosmopoliteness (62%). Most of them (67%) showed a moderately favorable attitude towards homestead gardening, followed by 20 percent showed less favorable, and only 13 percent showed a highly favorable attitude. They evaluated homestead gardening as a profitable enterprise (ranked 1%; AI=148) and a good source of family nutrition (ranked 2″; AI=144). Pleasing feelings with homestead gardening (ranked 3″;AI=143) has developed a belief regarding effective use of leisure time (AI=129), which ranked 4”. An idea of ‘establishing a homestead garden from a long distance of land gardening ensure more production’ generated through experiencing this practice ranked 5″ (AI=128). In contrast, insect and pest infestation, absence of a suitable environment for growing vegetables year round, sudden loss of production, complexity in maintenance, and high cost of growing vegetables during the summer season were the negative impact of homestead gardening. Pearson’s product moment correlation coefficient ‘r’ showed that the attitude of the peri-urban women is significantly and positively associated with annual income, homestead size, knowledge, use of information sources, and cosmopoliteness.


Keywords: Attitude, homestead gardening, peri-urban women


DISEASE INDEX OF BLAST OF RICE AND ITS IMPACT ON SEED TRANSMISSION


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 177-187

Seed—borne infections of rice by Pyricularia oryzae (Teliomorph: Magnaparthe oryzae) were studied during two Boro scasons (2018/19 and 2019/20) with naturally infected seeds of three rice cultivars — namely, BRRI dhan28, BRRI dhan29 and Binadhan—10 in BADC farm of Sylhet of Bangladesh. The objectives of the study were to observe blast disease development in the field, determine seed infection, the subsequent impact of seed transmission, and on planting value of seeds. In this study, the disease index was the highest in the tillering stage of BRRI dhan28 followed by BRRI dhan29, and the lowest was in Binadhan—10 in both years. The moisture content of before-sowing seed samples of three rice varieties ranged from 12.10-13.00%, but samples of harvested seeds were 13.20—-14.50% in the boro season of the years. The purity percentages of before-sowing and after-harvest seeds of Binadhan—10 were the highest in both seasons (91.4, 94.4 and 93.3, 95.90) followed by BRRI dhan29 and BRRI dhan28. Highest normal seedlings were observed in Binadhan—10 in both seasons. Nine sced—borne fungi were recorded in after—harvest seed samples in 2018/19 and eight fungi in 2019/20, but no Pyricularia oryza was identified in tested seed samples. Binadhan—10 showed lower seed infection compared to other varieties. The seedling infection by blast pathogen at the coleoptile indicates seed—to—seedling transmission of the pathogen. The lowest coleoptile infection was observed in Binadhan—10 compared to BRRI dhan29 and BRRI dhan28. In both seasons, the highest planting value (46.33 & 71.56%) was reduced in Binadhan—10 followed by BRRI dhan28 (32.48 & 56.20%) and BRRI dhan29 (38.35 & 58.88%) before sowing seed samples. Binadhan—10 also exhibited the highest planting value (73.89 & 86.50%) in after harvest seed sample. Considering the data recorded from the field and laboratory Binadhan—10 was found to be better for cultivation in the Boro season in Sylhet.


Keywords: Blast of rice, transmission, planting value, disease index, colcoptiles


ATTITUDE OF THE SMALLHOLDER FARMERS OF DINAJPUR DISTRICT TOWARDS MODERN MAIZE PRODUCTION


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 189-195

The main objective of the study was to determine the attitude of the smallholder farmers towards modern maize production and to explore the relationships between the selected characteristics of the maize growers and the attitude. The study was conducted in three villages under Goaldihi union of Khansama upazila of Dinajpur district. Data were collected from 50 maize growers randomly selected as sample from a population of 93 growers of three selected villages by using a pretested well-structured interview schedule from 1 October to 30 November, 2018. Attitude was measured through 30 items constructed on cognitive, affective, conative and evaluative psychology of growers towards the modern maize production. Results revealed that majority (70%) of the growers had moderately favorable attitude towards modern maize production followed by 16% less favorable and only 14% had highly favorable attitude. The results also revealed that attitude of smallholders was mainly influenced by their cognition (AI=38.0 scores), conation (AI=35.75 scores), evaluation (AI=24.21 scores) and affection (AI=13.16 scores) to modern maize production. Precisely, high profit, facilitated family nutrition, source of livestock feed and rich source of fuel straw for family consumption had substantial influence on such attitude. The result of Pearson’s product moment correlation co-efficient ‘r’ showed significant positive association between the education, annual income, profit gained, cosmopoliteness, use of communication media and the attitude of smallholder farmers towards modern maize production cognitive.


Keywords: Attitude, Modern maize production, Small holder farmer


RICE FARMERS’ PERCEPTION ON FEATURES OF BRRI dhan87


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 197-204

The focus of the study was to assess farmers’ perception regarding different characteristics of a T. Aman rice variety BRRI dhan87 and to explore the relationships between the farmers selected characteristics and the perception. The study was conducted in three unions of Dowara bazar upazila under Sunamganj district. Data were collected from the farmers utilizing a pre-tested interview schedule from 01 October to 20 November 2020. Perception was estimated based on the responses of the farmers to 31 statements constructed on different characteristics of BRRI dhan87 in a four point scale of measurement. Findings revealed that the majority of farmers (42%) had moderate perception followed by 36% low and 22% high perception about the characteristics of BRRI dhan87. Out of 31 characteristics, the top five perceived were: shorter life span (PI=144), slender and fine grain (PI=143), higher market price (PI=141), rain-fed cultivation (PI=125), and lodging resistant (PI=124). However, among the five broader characteristics of BRRIdhan87, the mean perception index (PI) of complexity had the highest (106.6 scores). The score was elicited by the non-availability of quality seeds at the farmers door steps, input sensitive yield, and supplemental irrigation causes yield variation. The results also revealed that respondents’ level of education, area of BRRI dhan87, communication media exposure, organizational participation, knowledge of BRRI dhan87, and experience were highly associated with their perception.


Keywords: BRRI dhan87, farmers’ perception, observability, trialability, compatibility, relative advantage, small holder farmer


MARKETING SYSTEM OF THE HILSA FISH (Tenualosa ilisha) IN THE MEGHNA RIVER ESTUARY OF CHANDPUR, BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 205-212

The objective of the study was to investigate the marketing system of Hilsa fish (Tenualosa ilisha) in the

Meghna River estuarine region of Bangladesh. Hilsa fish, the national fish of Bangladesh, is highly popular among the people. However, many common people cannot access this fish due to high price owing to apparent the absence of an effective marketing system. Our research revealed that the marketing of Hilsa fish in the Meghna River estuary involves various key stakeholders, including fishers, faria (middlemen), bapari (wholesalers), aratder (commission agents), and ultimately reaches the consumers through retailers. To analyze the marketing patterns and pricing strategies of Hilsa fish, a sample size of 60 respondents was selected as key informant. Data was collected through a semi-structured questionnaire. The findings suggest price of the fish at the retail market is determined based on market conditions, negotiations between retailers and consumers. Fishermen and aratder utilize an auction method for selling their fish, while faria employ open bargaining, auctions, and the prevailing market price. Additionally, our findings indicate that though Hilsa fish continues to be sold at high prices,

however, fishers are unable to receive a reasonable price for their catch due to the involvement of mahajons (money lenders), who compel fishers to sell at a predetermined rate, much lower than existing market price. As a result, the economic conditions of the fishers remain poor and vulnerable.


Keywords: Marketing system, national fish, hilsa fishery


TREND ANALYSIS OF GROUNDWATER LEVEL IN RAJSHAHI, BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages: 213-224

In Bangladesh, people mostly depend on groundwater to satisfy the demand for domestic and agricultural water supplies. Insufficient surface storage and successively falling groundwater levels have created a dreadful situation in the Northwestern region. The study aims to analyze and predict the groundwater level in the Rajshahi district. Mean monthly rainfall data from 2009 to 2020 and groundwater level data from 1995 to 2020 were collected from Barind Multipurpose Development Authority for this study. “MAKESENS” software was used to analyze the trend of rainfall, depth to the groundwater table, and prediction of the groundwater table. Trend analysis showed the water table depth had increased drastically in all the observation wells (except Gopalpur 1) and increased 2.46 times higher in Haripur within 26 years. Rainfall variation in the study area was very irregular, having the highest rainfall in 2020 and the trend line showing the slightest increment in annual rainfall. Most of the wells showed an increasing trend in the depth to water table with the decrease in rainfall. On the contrary, in 2015, the well of Godagari Upazila showed that the depth to water table increased although there was maximum rainfall. The prediction for the year 2040 has implied that if the trend continues , the depth of the groundwater table will be 2-4 times higher, maximum increment in Haripur (18.056 m). The result of this study will be a scope to safeguard the groundwater to ensure the sustainability of water resources in the Rajshahi district.


Keywords: Prediction, MAKESENS, Rajshahi District


Author guidelines


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 2; Pages:


Keywords: Author guidelines


EFFECTS OF TULSI LEAF (Ocimum sanctum) EXTRACT ON GROWTH PERFORMANCE AND HEMATOLOGICAL PARAMETERS IN BROILER


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 1-9

We conducted a study to evaluate the effect of tulsi leaf (Ocimum sanctum) extract supplementation in drinking water as a growth promoter in the broiler. A total of 50 Cobb-500 broiler chicks (day-old) were purchased from a local hatchery (CP Bangladesh Co. Ltd). After seven days of acclimatization, chicks were randomly divided into two groups:- T, (n=25) and T, (n=25). Group T, was kept as a control and untreated. Group T; was supplemented with tulsi leaf extracts 0.02% with tap water. Weekly observations were recorded for live body weight gain up to 4 weeks and hematological tests were performed at the broiler’s 21% and 28″ day’s age. The initial body weight of groups To and T, on 1% day of this experiment were 48.43+0.61 g and 47.77+0.22 g, respectively, and after the 28″ day of the experiment, final body weights were 1386.62+18.36 g, and 1476.25+12.21 g, respectively and net profit per broiler was Tk. 18.65 and Tk. 23.09, respectively. The live body weight of the treatment group (T,) was increased significantly (p<0.01) than that of the control group (To). The treatment group T, was recorded statistically significant (at 5% level) increased (6.935) live body weight than that of control group To. The hematological parameters total erythrocyte count (TEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and hemoglobin (Hb) estimation value of the treatment group was increased significantly (p<0.01), and total leukocyte count (TLC) was increased significantly (p<0.05). In contrast, hemoglobin (Fb) estimation showed significant difference from the control group. The results suggest that a broiler supplemented with 0.02% tulsi leaf extract could achieve better growth performance.


Keywords: Tulsi leaf extract, Growth performance, Hematological parameters, Cost-benefit analysis in broiler


ISOLATION OF Salmonella FROM AVIAN WILDLIFE IN SYLHET, BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 11-18

One of the most common problems in poultry farms in Bangladesh is salmonella. This discase is resistant to a wide variety of antibiotics because of inappropriate dosages and the indiscriminate use of antimicrobial drugs. For the isolation and identification of salmonella, droppings from a total of 55 wild birds were examined with the cultural examination, Gram’s Staining (GS), motility and biochemical test in the microbiology lab of Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, Bangladesh, during the period January 2011 to June 2012. Salmonella was isolated from 31 samples. The overall prevalence was 56.33%. Commercial antibiotic discs were used for the in vitro antibiotic sensitivity test of isolated Salmonella spp. The antibiogram study illustrated that the isolates were highly sensitive to Cefiriaxone (CT), Cephalexine (CE), and Nalidixic Acid (NA), moderately sensitive to Gentamycin (G), Chloramphenicol (CP), and Amoxicillin (A) and resistant to Erythromycin (E), Bacitracin (B), and Penicillin (P). Transmission of salmonella from wild to domestic bird frequently happens and antibiotic resistant salmonella becomes a threat to public health.


Keywords: Salmonella, Isolation, Avian, and Antibiotic.


EFFECTS OF VASECTOMY ON TESTOSTERONE LEVEL IN PLASMA, SEMEN CHARACTERISTIC AND TESTICULAR PARAMETERS OF BLACK BENGAL BUCKS (Capra hircus)


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 19-26

The effects of unilateral and bilateral vasectomy on the seminal characteristics, testosterone concentrations, and testicular parameters following castration were assessed. Immediately after vasectomy, the ejaculate volume declined in all vasectomized bucks, which was also found to increase afterward, irrespective of the groups. Concerning the color, the ejaculate was very light yellow in each vasectomized buck, while the typical milky appearance of the ejaculate was found in the control animals. The individual sperm motility was found to vary from 70.33% to 76.67% in the studied bucks, irrespective of the group before vasectomy. Following seven days of vasectomy, the sperm motility in unilaterally vasectomized bucks reduced to around 50%, whereas no individual sperm motility in all bilaterally vasectomized groups. In the plasmatic concentrations of testosterone, a marked decrease (p < 0.01) was observed in all the males from 2 to 6 weeks after the vasectomy. However, a gradual rise in the plasma levels of testosterone was also observed from 8 to 12 weeks after surgery. Before vasectomy, all bucks showed attraction to the goats ejaculating in the artificial vagina in a short time (<15-20 s) after contact with the goat in heat. From 10 weeks after vasectomy until the end of the experiment, the same bucks (four of the vasectomized and the control ones) that showed a recovery of the plasma levels of testosterone demonstrated normal libido and manifested attraction to the goats in heat. After 16 weeks of rearing, the bucks were subjected to castration to evaluate the testes and the epididymis. In the unilaterally vasectomized bucks, the vasectomized side was larger than the contra-lateral part and showed a nodule containing creamy material. The bilaterally vasectomized testis and epididymis were noticed to have more extensive morphology. These results demonstrate that vasectomy has little effect on the morphologic characteristics of the testis and epididymis. Though vasectomy did not affect the plasmatic concentrations of testosterone, it considerably affected the seminal parameters. Thereby, vasectomy can be used to develop teaser buck in the breed development program.


Keywords: Vasectomy, seminal characteristics, testosterone concentrations, testicular parameters teaser buck


EVALUATION OF PHOTO-INSENSITIVE COUNTRY BEAN GENOTYPES UNDER VARIED SUPPORT SYSTEMS


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 27-33

An experiment was conducted at the experimental field of the Horticulture Department, Sylhet Agricultural University, during the summer season on 15 May 2017 to evaluate three photo-insensitive (summer) country bean genotypes viz., Sikribi sheem-1, Sikribi sheem-2, and SB003 under two different support systems viz, trellis and staking. This experiment was conducted in two factors randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. In the case of Sikribi sheem-2, minimum days (47.50) were required for the first flowering, followed by Sikribi sheem-1(49.66) and SB003 (50.00). All the genotypes required around 80 days to first green pod harvest. Sikribi sheem-1 produced the maximum number of pods plant-1 (211.5) followed by SB003 (187.0), while it was the lowest for Sikribi sheem-2 (168.0). The green pod yield of Sikribi sheem-1 (1.19 kg plant-1) and SB003 (1.05 kg plant-1) was significantly higher than that of Sikribi sheem-2 (0.69 kg plant-1). Considering support system, a higher number of pods plant-1 (194.55) was harvested from the plant grown under the staking system than the trellis system (183.11). In the case of an interaction effect, the highest number of pods plant-1 was recorded from the genotype Sikribi sheem-1 when grown under a staking support system (220.0), and the corresponding gross margin was 2424 taka/decimal while it was the lowest for Sikribi sheem-2 when grown in trellis support system (155.66) and the corresponding gross margin was 984 taka/decimal. So growers can ensure more profit (more than 2000 taka per decimal) by cultivating Sikribi sheem-1 during the summer season in the Sylhet region, followed by SB003.


Keywords: Photo-insensitive, trellis, staking system, pod yield per plant, genotypes


ATTITUDE OF THE FARMERS OF SYLHET DISTRICT TOWARDS SUNFLOWER CULTIVATION


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 35-43

A huge amount of land in the Sylhet region remains fallow after the harvest of T. Aman paddy between November and December. On those fallow lands, although sporadically, recently sunflower is grown by some farmers bringing them new hope to secure financial solvency by making good use of their abandoned lands. The study attempted to ass the attitude level of Sylhet district farmers toward sunflower cultivation and explore the relationship between selected characteristics of the farmers and their attitudes. The study was conducted in four unions of Fenchuganj upazila under Sylhet district. Data were collected from 50 sunflower farmers following simple random sampling from a list of 250 farmers using a pre-tested well-structured interview schedule from June 30 through July 30, 2020. A total of 18 statements reflecting cognitive, affective, conative and evaluation of sunflower cultivation were constructed to measure the attitude level of the farmers towards sunflower cultivation. A five-point rating scale containing strongly agree (4), agree (3), no opinion (2), disagree (1), and strongly disagree (0) was used to measure the attitude level of the farmers. Results revealed that the majority (68%) of the farmer had high favorable attitude towards sunflower cultivation, followed by 22% had medium favorable and only 10% had low favorable attitude. The correlation coefficient ‘r’ showed that the farmers’ education, annual family income, cosmopoliteness and use of communication media of the farmers had a positive significant relationship with their attitude while age, family size, farm size and organizational participation had not significant relationship with their attitude.


Keywords: Attitude, Sunflower, Cognitive, Affective, Conative, Evaluat


EFFECT OF LIME AND INORGANIC FERTILIZERS ON GROWTH AND YIELD OF INDIAN SPINACH (Basella alba)


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 45-50

An experiment was conducted at Sylhet Agricultural University, Bangladesh in 2017 to see the effect of lime and NPKS fertilizers on the growth and yield of Basella alba using acid soil. This pot experiment used six treatments viz. control, lime, NPKS, lime + NPKS, 75% NPKS and lime + 75% NPKS. The 30 kg amended (cowdung @ 5 t ha1) soils were filled into 46 cm2 earthen pots, and 3 healthy plants were used as test crop. The rate of urea-N, TSP-P, MoP-K, gypsum, and lime were 90, 18, 60, 15, and 3000 kg ha1 respectively. The lime, TSP-P, gypsum, and 1/3 of urea-N and 1⁄2 of MoP-K were applied as basal doses. The rest of the fertilizers were applied at 35 (1/3 of N and 1⁄2 of K) and 52 (1/3 of N) days after sowing (DAS). Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications used to arrange treatments in this study. The data were recorded at 35, 50, 65, and 80 DAS. The data was statistically analyzed using the R software for ANOVA, and means were compared with LSD values. Combined application of lime + NPKS responded significantly in almost all growth and yield parameters of B. alba. The highest and lowest yields were 809.34 and 468.27 g pot1 obtained from lime + NPKS and control, respectively. The treatments lime + 75% NPKS, NPKS and 75% NPKS showed the statistically identical result. Combined application of lime with fertilizers performed well due to the positive effect of lime with NPKS and reduction of soil acidity.


Keywords: Lime, inorganic fertilizer, soil acidity, B. alba


A STUDY ON COMPARATIVE PERFORMANCES OF DIFFERENT RICE VARIETIES AVAILABLE IN AMAN SEASON IN BARISHAL DISTRICT OF BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 51-56

An experiment was done at a farmer’s field in Barishal district to evaluate the comparative performance of one hybrid rice variety- Sorno balam, with four modern varictics BR 11, BRRI dhan 52, BRRI dhan75 and BRRI dhan 87 in Transplanted aman season of 2021. Hybrids and conventional rice varieties differed significantly among themselves to different parameters under study. The highest grain yield (6.40 t/ha) was recorded from the hybrid Sorno balam followed by BRRIdhan87 (5.23 t/ha) and the lowest in BRRI dhan 75 (4.20 t/ha). Further, hybrid Sorno balam produced the highest straw yield (8.7 t/ha), which varied significantly with all other varieties. Minimum days to first flowering 80.67 and maturity (114.33) were noticed in BRRIdhan75 followed by Sorno balam (115.67 and 153.33), respectively. The hybrid variety had a heavier grain weight (26.50 g) than the conventional varieties (21-25 g). It is noted that the hybrid variety maintained a distinct statistical edge over the conventional varieties regarding most of the parameters. Thus, the hybrid Sorno balam was found to be superior to modern varieties for transplanting in the aman season in the Barishal district of Bangladesh.


Keywords: Hybrid, Conventional varieties, Transplanted aman, Grain, Yield


FARMERS’ PERCEIVED SUBMERGENCE TOLERANCE FEATURES OF BRRI dhan 52


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 57-63

Aman rice, a major cereal crop in Bangladesh, frequently encounters monsoon and late floods during the vegetative growth period in August-September. The crop cannot withstand if the flood water remains stagnant for more than 4 to 5 days. In this context, a variety named BRRI dhan52 evolved to grow in 2 to 3 weeks of submergence without losing significant yield. However, no systematic study has yet been ‘made regarding the performance of BRRI dhan52 in real situations. Thus, farmers’ perceived performance has been focused on the study, which was estimated based on responses against 30 different flood tolerant characteristics of BRRI dhan52 in a four-point scale of measurement. Findings reveal that the highest proportion (63.1 percent) of the farmers had moderately favorable perceptions, followed by 19.4 percent with low favorable perceptions and 17.5 percent with high favorable perceptions towards all the 30 characteristics. Out of which, the top five were: can tolerate sudden flood (PI=285), less photosensitive (P1=284), lodging tolerant (PT=284), produce more straw and more fodder (PI=283). Considering the mean values of PI it was found that the complexity related to the use of BRRI dhan52 technology was highly perceived as reflected by PI= 218, followed closely by compatibility of 215, trial ability by 206, relative advantage by 177, and operability by 172. It is also observed that education, family size, communication media, and attitude towards BRRI dhan52 showed significant positive relationship with their perception.


Keywords: Submergence, tolerant, BRRI dhan52, Aman rice


FLOOD COPING STRATEGIES OF THE ULTRA-POOR FARMERS IN HAOR AREAS OF SYLHET DISTRICT


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 65-69

The study was undertaken to determine the flood coping strategies practiced by the inhabitants of Haor farmers particularly the ultra-poor farmers. Data were collected from a randomly selected sample of 80 ultra-poor farmers of two villages Goyasi and Belkuna under Fenchuganj upazila of Sylhet district by using a pre-tested interview scheduled from 24 August 2017 through 3 October 2017. The study revealed that the ultra-poor’s flood coping strategies centered on six major issues: crop production, life security, livestock and poultry, housing and shelter, means of livelihood, health and sanitation. Cultivation of short-duration rice variety ranked top, followed by collecting good quality seedlings from the nursery, using tube-well water to avoid water borne diseases, and earthen up homestead area. On the other hand, keeping the children away from flood water ranked sixth. However, the co-efficient of correlation indicated that annual family income and training received had a significant relationship in flood coping strategies of the ultra-poor farmer.


Keywords: Flood coping strategy, Ultra-poor farmer, Haor


EFFECT OF TRIPLE SUPER PHOSPHATE ON NUTRIENT UPTAKE IN RICE (Oryza sativa L.) AND SOIL NUTRIENTS STATUS OF HAOR AREA


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 71-79

The experiment was conducted at Bilpar village under the Saidergaon union of Chatok upazila of Sunamganj district from November 2016 to May 2017 to find out the effects of TSP fertilizer on the nutrient uptakes in boro rice and soil properties in haor areas. Two factors experiment- varieties: BRRI dhan29 and BRRI dhan58 and six TSP fertilizer levels: Fi- 85 kg TSP ha”! (Farmers’ practice), F,- 142 kg TSP ha”, Fs- 127 kg TSP ha”, F,- 112 kg TSP ha™ (BARC recommended dose), Fs- 97 kg TSP ha, Fq-82 kg TSP ha” were included in the experiment, which laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications. The grain, and straw nutrients (NPKS) were analyzed using standard ‘methods. Initial and post-harvest soil analyses were done for pH, organic matter, total nitrogen, available P, exchangeable K and available S. Between two rice varieties, BRRI dhan58 showed higher nutrient content and uptake in comparison compared to BRRI dhan29. TSP fertilizer significantly influenced nutrient concentration in grain and straw as well as nutrient uptakes. BARC recommended TSP fertilizer (TSP-112 kg ha™) helps to uptake nutrients (P) superiorly in grain and straw. The soil analyses showed that the nutrient contents in post-harvest soils were higher compared to the initial soil. The application of TSP fertilizer along with Urea, MoP and Gypsum increased total N, available P, K, and S contents in post-harvest soil. The result revealed that cultivation of BRRI dhan58 with 112 kg TSP ha (BARC recommended dose) was the best option for rice production and maintaining soil fertility.


Keywords: TSP, Rice, Soil fertility, Nutrient uptake


PLANT GROWTH-PROMOTING RHIZOBACTERIA FROM TOMATO FOR ANTAGONISTIC ACTIVITY AGAINST Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Lycopersici


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 81-91

Plant-growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial microorganisms that dwell in the rhizospheric region and positively affect plants. In the present study, bacteria were isolated from the rhizosphere of healthy tomato plants, and their effects on plant growth and Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. Iycopersici were assayed. Sixteen isolates were obtained, among which five isolates, ERB4, ERBS, ERB12, ERB14, and ERB16, were capable of producing ammonia, IAA and phosphate solubilization. Meanwhile, they also showed in vitro antagonistic activities against F. oxysporum. The isolates were identified via morphology observation on selective and semi-selective media and 16S rRNA sequencing, ‘which were classified as Azotobacter sp., Bacillus sp., Pseudomonas stutzeri and Enterobacter cloacae. The present study demonstrates that these bacteria can act as PGPRs to stimulate plant growth and suppress plant pathogenic fungi. It is important to develop new biocontrol agents for Fusarium wilt of tomato.


Keywords: PGPR, TAA production, Phosphate solubilization, Pseudomonas strutzeri, Enterobacter cloacae


SEASONAL VARIATION OF WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS AND USES OF AQUA MEDICINES IN SHRIMP FARMING IN THE SOUTH-WEST REGION OF BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 93-102

Shrimp farming is a fast-growing industry, considered one of the best export-carning products in the coastal communities of Bangladesh. In this study, we observed the seasonal variation of water quality parameters in shrimp farms, as well as assessed the uses and effectiveness of aqua medicines. Primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews with 42 shrimp farmers and 30 drug and chemical seller (he temperature varied from ~30 °C (during summer) to 15 °C (during winter), respectively. Dissolved oxygen (DO) levels recorded ranged from 3.5 mg/L to 6.0 mg/L in the study period. The pH remained stable from autumn to the rainy season, within 6.5 to 8 in all sites. Ammonia and nitrite concentrations were higher during the winter season. However, these values were lower before and after the winter. Seven categories of aqua medicines from 38 pharmaceutical companies were found to be used by the farmers. The effectiveness of the drugs and chemicals used by farmers to prepare ponds for increased growth rate and as a disinfectant ranged from 60 to 80% on average. Farmers used these aqua drugs and chemicals haphazardly and appeared to have little knowledge, awareness, and concern about their proper use and effectiveness. To overcome these problems, an effective and functional regulatory framework is required to monitor shrimp farms from the existing government institutions or authorities.


Keywords: Water quality parameters, aqua medicines, effectiveness, coastal region, Bangladesh


DOES AGRICULTURAL INTENSIFICATION INDUCE SOCIAL EXCLUSION? -A QUALITATIVE ASSESSMENT IN THE SOUTHERN COASTAL BANGLADESH


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 103-113

The key motivation of the study was to find out the process of social exclusion of resource-poor households (small, marginal, landless, and women farmers) in the study area of southern Bangladesh. The study adopted a qualitative approach, including case studies, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews to reveal the actual situation. A Fishbone diagram was adopted to represent the current social inclusion issues in the community. The study depicted that large affluent farmers were the protagonist in taking advantage of the capital-intensive agricultural intensification while resource-poor farmers were lagging behind. Polarization was visible between the rich and poor farmers at an increasing rate. Predominant factionalism and patron—client relations were observed in the power structure, but the encapsulation process was absent. Therefore, these issues constantly escalate socio-economic disparities pushing social exclusion with the initiation of agricultural intensification. Right-based awareness programs and livelihood improvement training should be promoted in the locality so that resource-poor farmers and the next generation can have benefited from these facilities.


Keywords: Social exclusion, Agricultural intensification, Patron-client relation, Factionalism, Fishbone diagram


NDVI VARIATION AND ITS RESPONSES TO METEOROLOGICAL FACTORS IN THE HAKALUKI HAOR AREA DISTRICT


Journal of Sylhet Agricultural University, 2022, Volume 9, Number 1; Pages: 115-125

The study was carried out in Hakaluki haor to examine the effects of meteorological factors on Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) dynamics. Remote sensing and GIS technique we to detect the spatiotemporal changes of NDVI in Hakaluki aor using multitemporal satellite images from Landsat 7 ETM+ and Landsat 8-OLT images from 2000 through 2019. The results from the spatiotemporal analysis at every five year interval showed that the value of NDVI decreased rapidly, so used the density of vegetation coverage was declining, and the water body was shrinking imperfectly. The resulting datasets from NDVI were compared with the meteorological parameter such as rainfall, maximum temperature, minimum temperature, and humidity to assess the impact of meteorological changes on it. Linear regression analysis model was done to identify the relationship of averaged meteorological factors as independent variables that could affect the averaged NDVI as the dependent variable at the study site. From the analysis of the linear regression model, it was found that there was a significant decrease in rainfall, with an increase in temperatures in conjunction with the decline of NDVI value. The results revealed that the NDVI value decreased with rainfall and humidity and had a negative correlation with rainfall and humidity, indicating that the vegetation growth was decreasing. The correlation between NDVI and maximum and minimum temperature was significantly positive, but there ‘was a negative correlation between rainfall and humidity. Overall this study illustrated the effectiveness of the NDVT approach for the change detection of area under the major changes of meteorological factors in Hakaluki kaor.


Keywords: Hakaluki haor, NDVI, GIS, Remote Sensing, Change detection, Landsat data, Meteorological factors.


SUBMIT MANUSCRIPT

Submit your manuscript fast and easiest way via our online submission system

Journal SAU

Journal SAU