FACULTY OF AGRICULTURE

This study determined the effects of culture facilities; (Earthen pond, Concrete tank, and Tarpaulin tank) on the nutritional value and organoleptic properties of Clarias gariepinus in Benin Metropolis. Thirty catfish samples (Ten samples from each culture facility) of average weight of 500g obtained from a reputable farm in Benin city were euthanized, eviscerated, degutted, and thoroughly washed under running water. The samples from the earthen pond, concrete tank, and tarpaulin were tagged sample A, B, and C respectively. The proximate analysis of the fresh and smoked-dried samples was done according to standard methods. Organoleptic assessment was done by trained panelists. The result reveals that C. gariepinus raised in the concrete tank had the best general acceptability in terms of appearance, texture, aroma and taste, although, there was no significant difference (P

This study was carried out to determine the yield, physical properties and chemical composition of sweet orange leaf protein concentrates and bagasse extracted using three different methods. Heat coagulation, alum precipitation and acid coagulation methods were used for the extraction of sweet orange leaf protein concentrates. Thereafter, the yield, physical properties and chemical composition were determined. The results obtained showed that the yield obtained via the three methods are 2.675% for acid coagulation, 6.60% for alum precipitation and 7.838% for heat coagulation. The chemical analysis performed on the leaf protein concentrates and bagasse, CP, EE and Ash content from LPC obtained from acid and alum precipitation were statistically the same (p<0.05). The CP and EE of Bagasse (17.48% and 4.50% respectively) were lower (p<0.05) than the CP and EE obtained from all three methods. For the minerals, potassium content from alum precipitation (1351 mg/kg) and heat coagulation (2148 mg/kg) were not significantly different (p<0.05).

Uncontrolled weed reduce crop productivity by interfering with crop growth and yield. The reduction of weed growth by crop interference is a viable alternative to reduce the reliance on herbicide use in weed management. One of the strategies to reduce weed infestation is to grow crops as intercrops. A field trial was conducted during the rainy seasons of 2018 and 2019 at the Teaching and Research Farm of the Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City (06 0 20’ 50’ N, 5 0 37’ 23 “E; 78 m asl) to assess weed suppression in maize-groundnut intercropping systems. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) and replicated three times. The experiment consisted of six treatments (weed-free intercrop, weed-free sole maize, weed-free sole groundnut, weedy intercrop, weedy sole maize and weedy sole groundnut. The attributes measured for weed were weed density per m2, weed dry weight per m2, weed smothering efficiency, and for the crops were days to flowering, plant height, ear and pod maturity, cob and pod yields, seed weight, yield and land equivalent ratio. Results showed that weed-free intercrop suppressed weeds relative to weed-free sole maize cropping system. Maize and groundnut plants grew taller in weed-free cropping system (175 cm and 61.5 cm). Number of cobs, 1000-seed weight and grain yield (maize), and pods and 100-seed weight (groundnut), were higher in weed-free intercrop or sole cropping systems. This implies that weeds are major constraints limiting maize and groundnut production in Rainforest environment. For weed suppression, weed density of broadleaves, narrowleaves and their total (561.4 cm, 246.8 cm and 808.2 cm) were all higher in weed-free cropping systems. However, weed dry weight of broadleaves, narrowleaves and their total (78.6 cm, 250 cm, and 329.2 cm) were higher in weedy cropping systems. Weed smothering efficiencies for broadleaves, narrowleaves and their total (72.9 % 626% and 68.0 %) were higher in weed-free intercrop. Broadleaves were better controlled in both weed-free and weedy intercrops. Land equivalent ratios were generally above one showing that it was more advantageous growing maize and groundnut together instead of the respective sole crops. Therefore, it may be recommended that farmers in the Rainforest agro-ecology should intercrop groundnut with maize and regularly control weeds.

In the agricultural economy of Edo State, Nigeria, women play a pivotal yet often under-documented role in the livestock sector. This study investigates the participation of women in pig and pork marketing in Benin City, exploring their impact on local food security and the urban economy. Methodology & Scope Using a combination of structured surveys and field observations across major meat hubs such as Santana, Oliha, and New Benin markets, the research analyzes the demographics, scale of operations, and profitability of female-led pork enterprises. Key Findings * Value Chain Positioning: While men dominate the production (far ing) and slaughtering stages, women hold a near-monopoly on retail marketing, processing (grilling/frying), and the distribution of pork products.

This study was carried out to comparatively study different snail production systems using crops as cover. The systems evaluated were open and screened paddocks in comparison with the conventional paddock. In the open and screened paddocks, four different crops (Pueraria phaseoloides, Centrosema mole, Calapogonium mucunoides and Manihot esculenta) were cultivated to simulate the natural environment of the snails. The snails were allowed to live on the crops as applicable in the wild for the first 6 weeks after which concentrate was introduced for another six weeks while conventional feeding materials like pawpaw leaves, fruits and water leaf were utilized in the conventional paddock. A total number of three hundred and twenty (320) apparently healthy Archachatina marginata with liveweight between 50 to 60 g were used in the study which was laid out in a 2 X 4 factorial in Randomized Complete Block Design with four replicates. Data collected on growth, reproduction, environmental temperature and relative humidity were subjected to Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) using GenStat version 12.0 statistical software. Significant level was taken at P < 0.05. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) in the weight of the snails among the four cover treatments when compared on the basis of the production systems. The snails in the Mucuna, Centro, Puero and Cassava screened paddock recorded 10.75, 5.90, 5.63 and 4.43 g weight gain respectively while the snails reared under the open paddock in Mucuna, Puero, Centro and Cassava had weight gain of 4.28, 3.7, 2.9 and -2.8 g respectively. The snails in the conventional paddock had an average weight gain of 6.5 g. The snails reared under Cassava in the screened paddock laid the highest average number of eggs (10). Snails from the Mucuna pen in the screened paddock had bigger average size of eggs (20 mm) while the Snails from the Centro pens in the screened paddock had the highest average egg weight (1.30 g). The incubation period ranged between 26.5 to 32 days. Eggs laid by snail in the Centrosema pen in the screened paddock recorded 100 % hatching. The average temperature recorded at 0, 6 and 12 weeks for Open paddock were 39.43, 37.98 and 45.05 oC; for screened paddock were 36.19, 36,67 and 42.76 oC and conventional paddock were; 39.75, 39.10 and 45.05 oC respectively. The relative humidity recorded in the open paddock at 0, 6 and 12 weeks were 77.31, 63 and 65.11 %; screened paddock were 77.31, 66.63 and 71.56 % and Conventional paddock were 78.75, 68.75 and 67.50 % respectively. It was concluded that rearing snails under a screened paddock did not only help to regulate the temperature and relative humidity of the snails immediate environment but also protected the snails from intruders, predators and escape which are the major factors responsible for successful snail farming

The study was conducted to investigate the impact of oil palm empty fruit bunches (EFB) onthe fungal community structure and diversity within the rhizosphere of Elaeis guineensisL. at the Nigerian Institute for Oil Palm Research (NIFOR), Edo State. EFB, a lignocellulosicby product of palm oil processing, was applied at varying rates (0, 50, 100, and 150kg) toassess its effects on soil physicochemical properties and fungal dynamics. Standardlaboratory analyses were used to evaluate soil parameters, while fungal enumerationandidentification were conducted through morphological and microscopic characterization. Results revealed that moderate EFB application (100 kg) significantly (P ≥ 0.05) improvedsoil properties, while enhancing fungal abundance and diversity. Identified fungi specieswere Aspergillus niger, Trichoderma sp., Penicillium sp., Rhizopus arrhizus, andMucormucedo, with Trichoderma sp. exhibiting notable phosphate-solubilizing and nitrogen-fixingproperties. However, excessive EFB application (150 kg) led to nutrient immobilizationandreduced fungal proliferation. In conclusion, moderate EFB incorporation at 100kg optimizessoil health and promotes beneficial fungal communities, offering a sustainable approachforenhancing oil palm productivity in tropical soils.

This study investigated the comparative drying performance and product quality of fluted pumpkin (Telfairia occidentalis) leaves processed using traditional open sun drying (OSD) and an improved parabolic-shaped solar dryer (PSSD). Freshly harvested fluted pumpkin leaves were divided into two batches and dried under both methods to a target moisture content of 10% (wet basis). Key performance indicators measured included drying time, drying rate, and final moisture content, while sensory attributes such as colour, odour, texture, and overall acceptability were assessed using a 9-point Hedonic Scale. Results revealed that the PSSD achieved significantly faster drying (4.55 h) and higher drying (21.78 g/hr) compared to OSD (6.05 h and 16.22 g/hr, respectively), with the statistically significant (p = 0.027). Sensory evaluation further indicated that leaves dried with the PSSD were preferred (overall acceptability = 7.9) to those dried under open sunlight (5.9), with superior colour retention and aroma preservation (p < 0.001). The enhanced efficiency and product quality observed in parabolic solar drying demonstrate its potential as a sustainable, energy-efficient alternative for preserving perishable leafy vegetables in Nigeria. Adoption of this technology can substantially reduce postharvest losses, improve marketability, and promote year-round availability of nutrient-rich vegetables like fluted pumpkin.

Habanero pepper (Capsicum chinense Jacq.) is an important horticultural crop in Nigeria, but its yield potential is constrained by poor soil fertility and unsustainable tillage practices. This study was undertaken to evaluate the effects of tillage practices and nitrogen fertilizer application rates on performance of Habanero pepper under field conditions in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.
The field experiment was a 2 × 4 factorial arrangement fitted into a randomized complete block design with four nitrogen fertilizer rates (0, 40, 80, and 120 kg N/ha) and two tillage systems (minimum tillage and no-tillage) with three replications. Composite soil samples were collected and analyzed for physical and chemical properties before and after planting. Agronomic data collected includes plant height, number of leaves, number of branches, stem girth, and yield. Nutrient uptake, nutrient use efficiency (NUE), and nutrient balance sheets were used to assess fertilizer responsiveness.
Results showed that nitrogen application significantly affected soil pH, organic matter, and nutrient availability, with high N rates (120 kg/ha) resulting to acidification and organic matter decline. Minimum tillage enhanced nutrient uptake and plant growth compared to no-tillage. Optimal plant growth and yield were achieved under the interaction of minimum tillage and moderate nitrogen rates (40 and 80 with yield values of 4.42t/ha and 4.16t/ha respectively). NUE peaked at 40 kg N/ha and declined at higher rates, while nutrient balance sheets indicated surplus nitrogen with increased N inputs (120kg/ha). The study suggests that integrating 40–80 kg N/ha with minimum tillage optimizes Habanero pepper growth, yield, and soil quality and NUE, excessive N application should be avoided to promote healthy soil environment and ensure sustainable vegetable production systems in Nigeria.

Maize (Zea mays) is one of the most important cereal crop worldwide. It contains starch, proteins, fibers, oils, and sugars. It plays a significant role in human and livestock nutrition. Nitrogen (N) is essential for crop growth and yield. The most common sources of nitrogen are NPK and urea. However, consistent usage of these inorganic fertilizers can have adverse effects on the soil which includes soil acidification, reduced soil microorganisms, alteration of soil PH, which in turn can affect the soil fertility. This has made it essential to utilize organic fertilizers like plant residues, which can improve soil fertility without causing damage to the soil. Chromolaena odorata (L.) shows promise in boosting plant nutrient levels as mulch. Hence, this study is aimed to assess the agronomic performance of maize fertilized with C. odorata. The trial was conducted at the Faculty of Agriculture Teaching and Research Farm, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) replicated four times. The treatment involved the use of four rates of freshly cut C. odorata leaf residues (0, 1, 3, 5 kg m-2). The variables studied were plant height, cob yield, grain yield and stover yield. Maize plant height and cob, grain and stover yields increased with increase in the levels of C. odorata plant residues (0-5 kg m-2). Based on the present
study, C. odorata residues has potential for use as a mulch in improving maize yield and soil quality.

This experiment was carried out at the Screen house of the Department of Crop Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of Benin, Benin City, Nigeria to evaluate the effect ofpotting mixtures, sowing depth and watering regime on dry matter production of soursopseedlings. This experiment involved three potting media, Top soil(TS) + poultrymanure(PM) 1:1 (3kg +3kg), top soil (TS) + poultry Manure (PM) 1:2 (2kg +4kg), andtopsoil (TS) + poultry manure (PM) 2:1 (4kg + 2kg), three sowing depths (2, 4 and 6cm), andthree watering regimes (one every day, once in three days and once in five days) laidout in a 3×3×3 factorial arrangements fitted into complete randomized design (CRD) andreplicated three times. At 12 and 14 weeks after sowing (WAS), data were collectedonroot length, shoot dry weight, root dry weight, dry weight, root : shoot ratio andcropgrowth rate. Result showed that dry matter variables had significant (p