Abstract:This three-year study investigated the effects of regulated deficit irrigation on olive tree performance and oil quality in the semi-arid Fes-Meknes region of Morocco. Four irrigation treatments (100%, 75%, 50%, and 25% of crop evapotranspiration) were applied to mature Picholine Marocaine trees. Moderate water stress (50% ETc) significantly enhanced oil phenolic content and oxidative stability without compromising total yield, offering a sustainable approach for premium olive oil production under water-scarce conditions.
Abstract:This study evaluated the technical and economic feasibility of vertical farming systems for leafy vegetable production in densely populated areas of Metro Manila. Three hydroponic configurations (NFT, DWC, and aeroponic) were tested in a 50-square-meter indoor facility. Results demonstrated that NFT systems achieved highest space-use efficiency with lettuce yields of 12.5 kg/m2/month, with production costs competitive with conventional field production when labor and transportation savings were considered.
Abstract:Black Sigatoka disease caused by Mycosphaerella fijiensis remains the primary constraint to organic banana production in Ecuador. This study evaluated the efficacy of Trichoderma-based biofungicides and plant extracts for disease management in commercial organic plantations in Los Rios Province. Biweekly applications of Trichoderma harzianum combined with neem extract reduced disease severity index by 52% and maintained exportable fruit quality standards throughout the evaluation period.
Abstract:This cross-sectional study assessed feed resource utilization patterns and their relationship with milk production in 180 smallholder dairy farms across three districts of Kilimanjaro Region, Tanzania. Data on feed types, quantities, and milk yields were collected through farm visits and farmer interviews. Results revealed that farms utilizing improved fodder species and concentrate supplementation achieved 45% higher milk yields than those relying solely on natural pastures and crop residues.
Abstract:The invasive fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) has caused significant yield losses in maize production across Vietnam since its first detection in 2019. This study evaluated integrated pest management approaches combining biological control agents, botanical insecticides, and cultural practices in Dak Lak and Gia Lai provinces. Results showed that IPM plots achieved 73% reduction in larval damage while reducing synthetic pesticide use by 60% compared to conventional farmer practices.
Abstract:Twenty-four quinoa genotypes from the germplasm bank of Universidad Nacional del Altiplano were evaluated for drought tolerance under field conditions in Puno, Peru at 3,850 m altitude. Morphological, physiological, and yield parameters were assessed under water-limited conditions. Four genotypes demonstrated superior drought tolerance with yield reductions below 25% compared to irrigated controls, showing potential for cultivation in increasingly arid Andean environments.
Abstract:This research quantified the carbon sequestration potential of traditional cocoa agroforestry systems across 24 farms in the Western Region of Ghana. Aboveground and belowground carbon stocks were estimated using allometric equations and soil sampling. Results indicated that shade-grown cocoa systems stored significantly more carbon (156.8 Mg C/ha) than full-sun monocultures (78.4 Mg C/ha), highlighting the importance of maintaining diverse shade tree species for climate change mitigation.
Abstract:This study evaluated the effects of different biochar application rates (0, 5, 10, and 15 t/ha) on rice grain yield and soil physicochemical properties in lowland paddies of Khon Kaen province, Thailand. Field experiments conducted over two consecutive growing seasons showed that biochar application at 10 t/ha significantly increased grain yield by 18.5% compared to control plots. Soil organic carbon, cation exchange capacity, and water holding capacity improved substantially with biochar amendments.
Abstract:Rice paddies contribute significantly to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions through continuous flooding practices. This multi-site study evaluated alternate wetting and drying (AWD) irrigation effects on rice productivity and methane emissions across tropical Asian and Latin American production systems. AWD treatments reduced irrigation water use by 23-35% and methane emissions by 45-65% compared to continuous flooding. Yield impacts ranged from negligible to 8% reductions depending on soil type and water table depth. Nitrous oxide emissions showed variable responses requiring careful nitrogen management under AWD. Life cycle assessment confirmed net climate benefits of 35-50% reduction in global warming potential per kilogram rice produced. Guidelines for AWD implementation across diverse agroecological conditions support climate-smart rice intensification.
Abstract:Urban aquaponics offers potential for local food production in densely populated Latin American cities. This research assessed the technical performance and economic viability of small-scale aquaponics systems operated by urban households and community organizations. Twelve pilot installations were monitored for fish and vegetable productivity, water quality parameters, and operational costs over 18 months. Systems produced average yields of 25 kg fish and 180 kg vegetables annually per 10 m² installation. Economic analysis indicated breakeven within 14-20 months when valuing labor at opportunity cost rates. Social benefits including food access, nutrition education, and community building complemented economic returns. Design recommendations and training curricula were developed for scaling urban aquaponics programs.