Bangladesh Journal of Agriculture

Pomological traits and profitability of selected velvet apple germplasm

M S Sharif , M Robbani, P Howlader, M Z Rahman , M Imran — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The research was accomplished during February to August, 2021 at Germplasm Center (GC), Patuakhali Science and Technology University (PSTU) and farmers’ homesteads in Patuakhali district to find out different characteristics, fruit yield and profitability of four velvet apple germplasm. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. Results manifested that there were significant variations among the germplasm, where local red germplasm exhibited the highest plant height (5.54 m), plant diameter (16.23 cm), number of main branches (12.75), length of the largest branch (3.89 m), plant canopy (8.80 m²), leaf area (135.24 cm²) but those traits were minimum in PSTU Bilati gab-2. PSTU Bilati gab-2 emerged floral bud for the longest duration (32.25 days). The measured length of inflorescence before first flowering varied from 5.03 – 6.60 cm where it required 24 – 28.25 days for development. A range of flowers per inflorescence (7.75 – 11) and duration of flowering (46.5 – 59.25 days) were observed in all the studied germplasm. The percentage of fruit set (18.28 – 30.81) per plant with individual fruit weight 126.70 to 202.43 g. The highest pulp weight (103.85 g) was obtained from PSTU Bilati gab-2 and the lowest (69.25 g) from local yellow germplasm. PSTU Bilati gab-2 was completely seedless. So, it contained the highest edible portion (81.92%). The highest fruit yield (3.5 t/ha) was recorded in PSTU Bilati gab-1 but maximum net profit (251160 Tk/ha) was obtained from PSTU Bilati gab-2 with the highest benefit cost ratio (BCR) of 3.81. Considering percent fruit set, percent edible portion, fruit yield and profitability, PSTU Bilati gab-2 was found to be the best among the four germplasm.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 1-12

Influence of post-harvest application of Stenotrophomonas rhizophila on quality of mango cv. BARI Aam-3

M J Uddin, M N H Mehedi, M Robbani, M F Hasan, S M A Islam — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The study was conducted at the Postharvest and Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Horticulture, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Patuakhali, Bangladesh during the period from July to December 2018 to study the biocontrol performance of selected antagonistic bacteria Stenotrophomonas rhizophila strain PSTU-Hort-14 on BARI Aam-3. All the treatments were arranged in a completely randomized design (CRD) with five replications and repeated twice. The bacterial strain PSTU-Hort-14 was found highly compatible with 20% lemongrass extract and 2% sodium bicarbonate (SBC) or mixture of both which reduced 96.5% of the disease over control in naturally infected fruits at the end of 14 days of storage at 12±1ºC and 90±5% RH. The combined treatments of Stenotrophomonas rhizophila-lemongrass extract-SBC showed reduced weight loss by more than 25% compared to the control at 12±1ºC and 90±5% RH. The shelf life was thus extended by 15 days compared to control at 12±1ºC and 90±5% RH. Finally, it was clear that the strain Stenotrophomonas rhizophila strain PSTU-Hort-14 was effective when incorporated with 2% SBC and 20% lemongrass extract to control C. gloeosporioides as well as improve the postharvest quality of BARI Aam-3 during cold storage.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 13-29

Growth and instability analysis of black gram (Vigna mungo L.) in Bangladesh

J K Prioty, K S Rahman , M A M Miah — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Growth and instability of crops are two crucial aspects that significantly impact the agricultural sector and its contributions to enhancing agricultural resilience, food security, economic development, risk management, income volatility, and sustainable practices to meet increasing demands and challenges precipitated by erratic weather patterns. Black gram is one of the high-value pulses in Bangladesh and is essential for human nutrition and sustaining agricultural soil quality. This study presents the growth and instability in area, production, and yield of black gram along with the contributory factors affecting the growth and instability of black gram production in the context of Bangladesh’s agricultural landscape based on secondary data for the last 40 years (1981-2020). The entire period was divided into four sub-periods: 1981-90, 1991-2000, 2001-10 and 2011-20 for analysis through different statistical tools. Growth rates were calculated by fitting an exponential growth function, and instability was analyzed by generating the Cuddy-Della Valle index. The analysis presented highlights a significant decrease in the area of black gram cultivation and production, even though there has been a notable increase in black gram yields. However, this increase in yield is not sufficient to meet the overall demand for black gram in the country. The study also points out that the growth rate of yield is low compared to the increase in demand. Throughout the study period, the contribution of the area was -3.29%, while the yield contribution was 142.25% in the average growth of black gram production at the national level. The analysis underscores the lack of stability in black gram cultivation, production, and yield during this period. Notably, there were instabilities of 4.37%, 4.89%, and -25.7% in the area, production, and productivity of black gram at the national level, respectively. Hence, researchers, policymakers, and farmers must prioritize advancing technology to boost black gram production. This enhancement holds the promise of improving food security in Bangladesh. Encouragingly, there are signs that the government has recently implemented incentives to support the cultivation of black gram.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 30-38

Correlation and path coefficient analysis of different growth and yield components of kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

R Fatema, B N Shompa, J Rahman — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The present investigation was undertaken to determine the major yield contributing traits, their direct and indirect effect on yield through the correlation and path coefficient analyzing using kidney bean germplasms. The research was based on the evaluation of germplasms collected from Sylhet, Bandarban hilly regions and Bangladesh Agricultural Research Institute, considering seventeen yield and its contributing characters. The studies unraveled that yield per plant had highly significant positive correlation with number of leaves (0.83, 0.78), number of pods per plant (0.78, 0.73), pod length (0.86, 0.76), dry weight of pod (0.97, 0.90), number of seeds per pod (0.79, 0.72) at both genotypic and phenotypic correlation levels. However, it showed significant and negative association with pod diameter (-0.67) at the genotypic level. In path correlation analysis high positive direct effect was found in seed yield towards yield per hectare. While, it was recorded negligible positive indirect effect towards yield per hectare via, days to first flowering, days to maturity, plant height, number or pods per plant, petiole length, pod diameter, and number of seeds per pod. The overall results suggested that the yield contributing traits such as number of leaves, number of pods per plant, pod length, dry weight of pod, and number of seeds per pod, should be considered as selection index for improvement of the yield of kidney bean.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 39-53

Influence of chemicals and crude plant materials as pre-storage treatment on seed quality of onion (Allium cepa L.)

M S Rahman, P C Sarker, M A Hossain, M S Reza , M K A Nadim, M J Hasan — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Fresh onion seeds dried to 7.0% seed moisture content were stored with crude plant materials (red chili powder@20g/kg of seed; neem leaf powder@ 20g/kg of seed, lemon leaf powder @ 20g/kg seed), and chemicals (common bleaching powder and mancozeb @ 2g/kg of seed). The germination potential of onion seeds was found satisfactory in treated seeds. Water uptake during imbibition was maximum in lemon leaf treated seed which indicates better germination as the imbibition of water is an essential part of germination. A high correlation between EC measurements and germination was found; which indicates that conductivity readings have the potential to provide a rapid assessment of standard laboratory germination. In terms of seed-associated pathogens during storage, chemicals have shown better results in suppressing pathogens.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 54-62

Coastal farmers’ knowledge on climate smart agriculture in Bangladesh

M A T Mia, M R Islam, M S Ali, R Roy — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

Climate smart agriculture (CSA) is highly knowledge-intensive and innovative by nature. This study therefore aims to assess the extent of knowledge of coastal farmers on CSA and explore the contributions of the selected characteristics of the coastal farmers to their knowledge. Data were collected by using an interview schedule from 354 coastal farmers of 3 districts namely, Satkhira, Khulna, and Bagerhat through Multistage Random Sampling Method during December 2021 to March 2022. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied. To explore the contribution of the predictor variables to the outcome variables, full model regression analysis was employed. Results indicate that about 14.13% of the farmers had poor knowledge, 75.14% had medium-level knowledge and the rest 10.73% had high level knowledge on CSA. Farmers’ education, annual agricultural income, extension contact, decision making ability and benefit obtained from CSA had positive significant contributions to their knowledge on CSA. The findings show that CSA approaches are more likely to be knowledge-rich than technology-intensive.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 63-74

In vitro regeneration of black pepper (Piper nigrum L.)

T Afroz, H Huq, M E Hoque — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

This investigation was done to determine how various plant growth regulators such as benzyl adenine (BA) and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) affected the in vitro plant regeneration of the black pepper plant. The largest number of shoots was produced when the shoot tips and nodal segments of black pepper were utilized as explants and inoculated in Murashige Skoog (MS) media supplemented with 1.5 mg/L BA. The treatment with 2.0 mg/L BA at 8 weeks after induction (WAI) produced the most leaves (3.2). In the 2.0 mg/L treatment of IBA, the greatest number of roots was regenerated. The treatment 2.0 mg/L BA + 2.0 mg/L IBA produced the highest results for shoot induction, shoot length, and overall leaf production when the effects of both hormones were combined. The same treatment also produced the highest proportion of root induction and longest roots. Regenerated plantlets survive at a 46.67% rate in a shaded building and at a 57.14% rate in the open air under bright sunlight. In order to produce black pepper on a big scale, an effective approach for in vitro regeneration of black pepper has been established.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 75-85

Exploring genotypic variation in growth and yield traits of betel vine (Piper betle L.) genotypes

M A Alam, A J Obaidullah, S Naher, M A Mottalib, M A Rahman — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

The present research spans two consecutive growing seasons (2021-22 and 2022-23) at the Spices Research Centre, Shibganj, Bogura to evaluate the growth and yield attributes of the betel vine genotypes. The inaugural season (2021-22) focused solely on line BL0027, while the following season (2022-23) included multiple betel vine lines, BL0025, BL0027, BL0028, BL0030, and BL0040, with BARI Pan-3 as check variety. Experimental plots were arranged in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. Data were collected three times throughout the leaf harvesting period, encompassed fifteen morphological traits. The results highlight significant genotypic variations in vine growth, morphology, and yield characteristics. During season 1 (2021-22), genotypes exhibited varying vine lengths, daily growth rates, internode dimensions, and leaf traits, underscoring genetic diversity. BL0027 consistently displayed superior growth and yield attributes, and closely followed by BARI Pan-3 in the season 2 broad assessments. However, genotypic variations persisted, emphasizing the influence of genetics on betel vine attributes. These findings are crucial for betel vine breeding programs and agricultural practices, offering insights into genetic diversity and potential for tailored cultivation. Future research should explore the genetic and environmental factors underlying these traits to optimize betel vine cultivation and management.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 86-93

Enhancing agricultural productivity through a semi-autonomous IOT robot in smart farming systems

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

In addressing the challenge of enhancing agricultural productivity in developing countries, this research introduces a semi-autonomous IoT robot designed to modernize traditional farming practices in regions like Bangladesh. The study explores whether such a robot can effectively integrate with existing farming practices and assesses its impact on agricultural productivity, resource optimization, and most importantly cost-efficiency. The literature reveals a push towards smart farming technologies, but their adoption in less affluent regions is hindered by cost and resource constraints. Employing a mixed-methods case study approach, the research developed and tested a robot equipped with an NPK sensor for detecting levels of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the soil, a water level indicator to measure flood water levels in millimeters, and a soil moisture sensor. These data were transmitted to the user's phone over the internet, allowing for remote monitoring of fertilizers and water levels. Additionally, the system included a remote-controllable water dispenser for irrigation and a fruit-picking mechanism for harvesting. The results indicated that all intended data collection was executed accurately, enabling users to remotely monitor soil conditions and effectively control the robot's actions. However, the initial cost of the robot may be slightly expensive for individual farmers, though mass production is anticipated to reduce the price to a level that is reasonably affordable for widespread adoption. However, limitations in sensor calibration for different soil types are acknowledged. Future research suggested exploring sensor calibration precision, extending system capabilities, and integrating predictive AI for a comprehensive agricultural solution.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 95-105

Variability and heritability study in some selected Brassica rapa L. genotypes

N J Shelly, M S R Bhuiyan, F Mahmud, J Rahman, M A Alam — Mon, 25 Dec 2023 00:00:00 +0000

A field experiment was conducted in the research field of Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University (SAU), Dhaka, Bangladesh to study variability and heritability in Brassica rapa L. for developing short durable, high yielding varieties. The experiment had laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications and consisted of seven genotypes viz., G₁ (BARI Sarisha-14), G₂ (Brown Special), G₃ (Yellow Special), G₄ (Tori-7), G₅ (BARI Sarisha-17), G₆ (BARI Sarisha-15) and G₇ (BARI Sarisha-6). The result revealed that G₇ had the highest yield plant^-1 (6.91 g) and longest duration (108.00 days) while G₄ had the lowest yield plant^-1 (4.12 g) and G₂ had the shortest duration (79.33 days). High genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation for number of secondary branches plant^-1 (95.35% and 99.39%), number of siliqua plant^-1 (29.52% and 30.23%), plant height (25.19% and 25.38%) and number of seeds siliqua^-1 (26.76% and 27.12%) had estimated. High heritability with high genetic advance and gain had observed for days to 80% maturity (99.92%, 20.99% and 23.36 %), plant height (98.55%, 53.99% and 51.53%) and number of siliqua plant^-1 (95.33%, 101.25% and 59.37%). While high heritability with low genetic advance and high genetic gain were observed for number of primary branches plant^-1 (92.02%, 0.70% and 188.43%), number of secondary branches plant^-1 (92.02%, 7.47% and 188.43%), length of siliqua (98.23%, 1.104% and 29.96), 1000 seed weight (84.61%, 1.23% and 32.01%) and yield plant^-1 (97.41%, 2.01% and 38.47%). Days to 80% maturity, plant height and number of siliqua plant^-1 showed high heritability with high genetic advance and genetic gain indicated additive gene action and selection could be useful for these traits. While high heritability with low genetic advance had observed for number of primary and secondary branches plant^-1, length of siliqua, 1000 seed weight and yield plant^-1 indicated non additive gene action and selection might be ineffective for these traits.

Bangladesh J. Agri. 2023, 48(2): 106-118