Journal of Agriculture and Forestry University
The Journal of Agriculture and Forestry University is published by the Agriculture and Forestry University, Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal. The main aim of this journal is to publish the original research findings in the field of Plant Science, Animal Science, Aquaculture, Veterinary Science, Forestry, Environmental Science, and Social Science.
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Blood Haematologic and Biochemistry Values of High Altitude and Transhumant Pastoral Animals as a Reference for the Metabolic Studies
Transhumant grazing is a unique system of rearing domestic animals in the Himalayas. Migration to high elevations during summer is regarded as a strategy to increase energy intake, and it has been suggested that there is increased forage quality at high elevations. This led to the prediction that body weight is positively correlated with the proportion of high-altitude habitats. There are distinct physiological and metabolic changes in domestic animals during transhumance. Cold stress might further contribute to the physiological and metabolic differences at the same time as the low-altitude conditions of the animals. These changes have been further driven by genetic and nongenetic factors. This review provides few insights on such changes, which may help elucidate the scientific reasons behind the performance of sheep in the Himalayas. The physiological disposition of the animals to their nutrition could be monitored by hematology and serum biochemistry assays. Furthermore, changes in physiological states, such as the respiration rate and heart rate, are the simplest indirect measures of the stress tolerance of the animals during high-altitude grazing conditions, whereas blood metabolites can be observed as adaptive phenomena. Research reports on common physiological and metabolic traits and the reasons behind these changes under high-altitude conditions have been compiled in the present review.
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Effect of Spacing and Nitrogen Fertilizer on Growth, Yield and Quality of Beetroot (Beta vulgaris L.) at Kapilakot, Sindhuli, Nepal
A field experiment was conducted at the Horticulture Farm of the College of Natural Resource Management Kapilakot, Sindhuli, Nepal, from October 2020 to January 2021 to determine the spacing and optimum nitrogen fertilizer for the growth, yield, and quality of beetroot variety Madhur. The experiment was laid out in a two factorial RCBD design consisting of 15 treatment combinations replicated three times. The treatment considered three plant spacing (45 cm x 5 cm, 45 cm x 10 cm, and 45 cm x 15 cm) and five doses of N fertilizer (80 kg N ha-1, 100 kg N ha-1, 120 kg N ha-1, 140 kg N ha-1 and 160 kg N ha-1). The results indicated that plant spacing and nitrogen fertilizer doses significantly influenced beetroot growth, yield and quality. The number of leaves per plant (13.37), leaf breadth (11.54 cm), canopy diameter (39.65 cm), root diameter (78.63 mm), root weight plant-1 (186.69 gm), shoot weight plant-1 (156.69 gm), root dry matter (10.56 %), shoot dry matter (9.74 %), TSS (12.67 0Brix) were significantly higher in the wider spacing (45 cm x 15 cm). However, plant height (43.62 cm), leaf length (39.69 cm), root length (11.9 cm), economic yield (40.95 t ha-1) and biological yield (62.95 t ha-1) were significantly higher in close spacing (45 cm x 5 cm). Likewise, plant height (44.2 cm), leaves plant-1 (13.41), leaf length (39.79 cm), root length (12.32 cm), root diameter (72.56 mm), root weight plant-1 (181.32 gm), shoot weight plant-1 (164.43 gm), root dry matter (10.86), shoot dry matter (9.57 %), economic yield (38.14 t ha-1) and biological yield (62.58 t ha-1) were significantly higher in 160 kg N ha-1. However, the canopy diameter (39.12 cm), TSS (13.3 0Brix) and pH (6.6) were significantly higher in plants receiving 120 kg N ha-1. A plant spacing of 45 cm x 5 cm with 160 kg N ha-1 is the best management option for beetroot production in Sindhuli.
Quality Responses of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa Duch.) Fruits to Exogenous Gibberellic Acid Applications Under Protected Condition
A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the qualitative traits of strawberry varieties as influenced by GA3 applications in Bharatpur-11, Chitwan Nepal. The experiment was laid out in two factorial RCBD comprising 3 strawberry varieties as Factor A i.e. Winter Dawn, Sweet Sensation, and Florida Beauty, and five concentrations of gibberellic acid (GA3) i.e. Control, 50 ppm, 75 ppm, 100 ppm, and 125 ppm as Factor B replicated 4 times. The physicochemical analyses revealed that the maximum TSS (8.65 °Brix) was observed in the variety Florida Beauty and the minimum TSS (7.03 °Brix) was recorded in the variety Winter Dawn. Similarly, the maximum TSS (8.62 °Brix) was observed in plants treated with 100 ppm GA3 and the minimum TSS (7.34 °Brix) was recorded in plants treated with 125 ppm GA3. A higher amount of antioxidants (71.10%) was observed in the variety Sweet Sensation and a minimum in the variety Winter Dawn (67.02%) while the maximum antioxidants (74.45%) were recorded in fruits obtained from plants treated with 100 ppm and the minimum amount of antioxidants (64.32%) was observed in fruits obtained from control. This study revealed the application of 100 ppm GA3 was found to be better in all nutritional characteristics of strawberry varieties in protected conditions.
Impacts of Remittance on Migrants’ Households in Agrarian Societies of Sindhuli, Nepal
Nepal experienced a notable surge in remittance volume in the fiscal year 2021/22 reaching its highest proportion in GDP over the past six years. This study aimed to understand the impacts of remittance on the agrarian community and the livelihoods of these households. This research was conducted in 2021 by employing a mixed-methods approach, incorporating both qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Simple random sampling was used to select 350 households from seven different wards of Marin Rural Municipality. Quantitative data were collected through face-to-face interviews using a structured questionnaire. Additionally, qualitative information was collected through Key Informant Interviews (KII) from 21 purposively selected participants. The findings revealed that nearly 95% of households primarily depend on remittances for their income, with 96.9% using the sum for debt repayment and 78.6% for their children's education. Furthermore, the findings indicated that remittances significantly impact various aspects of individuals' lives in the research area, including food sufficiency, healthcare access, and community involvement. With a substantial impact on debt repayment, savings, and children’s education, remittances significantly contribute to the socio-economic landscape, positively affecting food sufficiency, healthcare access, and overall consumption for families in the agricultural communities of Sindhuli district of Nepal. Effective strategies and concrete plans are thus required to promote safe and dignified migration in the days to come.
Evaluating the Service Delivery of IRRI-STRASA Project for Disseminating Improved Rice Varieties in Nepal
STRASA project is the joint venture of IRRI-IAAS focusing in disseminating improved and tolerant rice varieties suitable to local conditions. A study was carried out to evaluate the extension service delivery of the project in two municipalities namely Bhanu, and Sundarbazar, selecting 101 sample households. Survey design with structured questionnaire, Focus Group Discussion and direct observation were used for data collection under pragmatic paradigm. The study showed that the average participation of respondents in project was 6.14 years, which had significant impact on their economic yield, production cost, food sufficiency and social networks. Majority of respondents were in frequent contact with extension personnel (fortnightly and monthly) and perceived that the services were credible, applicable, relevant and timely delivered with cost efficiency of 0.62 implying that the project was cost efficient in study areas. The technical competency and managerial skills were acquired by respondents highly through project, with decision making and social mobilization levels of women participation significantly increasing after project intervention. The disseminated varieties were highly adopted while post-harvest techniques were least adopted. As only 9% respondents were dissatisfied and remaining respondents had positive attitude towards project activities, the service delivery could be deemed effective and impressive in study areas.
Factors Influencing the Choice of Agricultural Information Sources Among Banana Farmers in Chitwan District, Nepal
Agricultural information is essential to improve the farming practices in the developing countries like Nepal. However, the farming communities are still devoid of access to timely and accurate information making agriculture solely rely on traditional knowledge and practices. An investigation was carried out during 2021 in the Chitwan district of Nepal to identify the factors influencing the choice of agricultural information sources among banana farmers. To gather primary data, a household survey was carried out with 75 banana farmers using pretested semi structured questionnaire, followed by a Focus Group Discussion (FGD) and Key Informant Interview (KII) with selected individuals. Descriptive statistics and multivariate probit model were used to present the findings. Results revealed that gender, age, education, income, farm size and membership in farmer’s organization were statistically significant in influencing the choice of agricultural information sources. Hence, the study suggests that information providers should tailor their working mechanism through the specification of farming communities. Farming communities should no longer be treated as homogeneous group by the extension agencies in the flow of agricultural information.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) Among Smallholder Vegetable Farmers in Surkhet District, Nepal
A study was conducted in 2022 within Birendranagar municipality of Surkhet District of Nepal to identify the factors affecting the adoption of Good Agricultural Practices (GAP) among smallholder vegetable farmers. Employing a random sampling approach, 115 smallholder vegetable farming households were selected. Primary data were gathered through semistructured questionnaires administered to household heads. The collected data was analyzed using a binary probit model. The findings revealed formal education, farming experience, training program, agricultural extension services, membership in agricultural cooperatives, annual household income, agricultural subsidies, and reliance on farming as the primary source of income were found significantly influencing the adoption of GAP. Thus, it is essential to provide smallholder vegetable farmers with regular extension services and trainings on GAP to promote its adoption. Further, agricultural cooperatives should be strengthened, subsidies should be made accessible to smallholder farmers and households that rely solely on agriculture for their livelihood should be prioritized to promote efficient adoption of GAP.
Factors Influencing Different Stages of Growth in First-Generation Boer Crossbred Goats
This study aimed to evaluate the growth performance of first-generation Boer crossbred kids, focusing on the effect of non-genetic factors like location, breed, production system, herd size, sex, parity, dam size, and birth type. The research was carried out at two municipalities of Surkhet district namely Birendranagar and Lekbesi. Data were gathered from 901 kids and 446 does raised in a pasture and stall-feeding system. The data were analyzed using the Mixed Model Least-square and Maximum Likelihood Computer Program PC-2 statistical package, and the means were compared using Duncan’s Multiple Range Test (DMRT). In this study, the least means square live birth weight, pre-weaning weight, weaning weight, post-weaning weight, weight at 6 months and weight at 12 months were 3.30±0.06 kg, 12.45±0.26 kg, 19.23±0.36 kg, 24.17±0.53 kg, 27.96±0.98 kg, and 34.68±1.53 kg respectively. The results revealed that breed, birth type, sex, location, herd size, and production system are significant factors influencing growth variations in goats. These insights can guide goat farmers in planning effective strategies for extensive and intensive crossbred goat production and farming.
Effects of Temperature, Particle Size and Enzyme Addition on Biogas Production In-Vitro
Biogas is an anaerobically produced ecofriendly renewable form of energy which can address the harmful effects associated with conventional source of fossil fuels. The objectives of present study were to examine effects of temperature, particle size and enzymes on biogas production. Moose (Alces alces) thrives in woody browse in semi arctic region and it was presumed that it hosts unique micro-organisms capable of producing fibrolytic enzymes. An experiment was conducted in the laboratory of Inland Norway University, Blæstad. Cow manure with 5% dry matter content and wheat straw with 3 different particle size were treated with 3 dose of Moose rumen bacteria (MRB) culture along with 3 temperature settings. A cubical model was selected according to DoE (Design of experiments) and 11 treatments with different combinations of treatments were tested. 100ml Erlenmeyer flasks were used as reactors, whereas gas was collected in 100 mL syringes. The data were then analyzed using MODDE pro and MS Excel. The study shows that increase in temperature and enzyme has positive main effects and interaction effects for achieving a high rate of biogas production. The study reveals the positive effect of using of MRB culture on the production of biogas since it contains novel microorganisms able to promote biomass digestion.
Laboratory and Field Screening of Maize Varieties Against Fall Armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith, 1797) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), at Gorkha, Nepal
There are several production constraints in maize cultivation in Nepal, and fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda J. E. Smith, 1797) is considered one. Fall armyworm (FAW) is an invasive, polyphagous, and voracious agricultural pest in maize crops. The current study aimed to understand the host plant selection behavior of the fall armyworm on different popular maize varieties in lab and field conditions. The lab experiment (choice test) was conducted at the Department of Entomology, AFU, in June 2022. Cohorts of fifteen third-instar larvae were used for laboratory bioassay in a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with ten replications. Ten different maize varieties (7 open-pollinated varieties and 3 hybrids) represent treatments at both conditions, which are popular and recommended in Nepal. The number of larvae settled on each maize variety was counted at 1 hour, 4 hours, 12 hours, and 24 hours after larvae were released. The results showed that the selection of maize genotype by fall armyworm larvae was initially random. However, at the end of the experiment, there was a significant difference in the settlement of FAW larvae among the varieties. The larvae settled on different maize genotypes of their preference. Rampur Hybrid- 12 was least preferred whereas Posilo Makai- 1, Rampur Composite, Arun- 4, and Manakamana- 7 were more preferred by FAW. The field experiment was conducted in 2022 in Gorkha, Nepal. The experiment was carried out in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with ten treatments, which were replicated three times. The data were collected at every 10-day interval after 20DAS (V4 stage). Based on the percent plant infestation with live larvae and the intensity of foliar damage, Rampur Hybrid- 12, Deuti, and Manakamana- 3 were comparatively less attracted toward FAW. In contrast to that, Manakamana- 7, Rampur Hybrid- 16, Rampur Composite, Arun-4, and Arun- 2 were found to be more prone to fall armyworm attacks. Not all varieties are equally susceptible to FAW damage. These findings have important implications for understanding the range of preference by FAW on different maize varieties.
Efficacy of Fungicidal Formulations along with Botanicals and Bio-Control Agents against Wheat Spot Blotch (Bipolaris sorokiniana) under Laboratory and Field Conditions
The present investigation was conducted to identify suitable fungicide formulation along with botanicals and bio-control agents (BCAs) against spot blotch disease (Bipolaris sorokiniana) under laboratory and field conditions. To test the fungi toxicity laboratory experiment (in-vitro) was conducted using fungicides (nine) and BCA (two) at different levels of concentrations following the poisoned food technique. Similarly, A field experiment was conducted to test the efficacy of fourteen disease-controlling agents (fungicides, botanicals, and BCAs) under natural epiphytotic conditions for spot blotch of wheat (variety-Gautam). Under in-vitro conditions, fungicides Nativo 75WG (trifloxystrobin 25% + tebuconazole 50%), DILT (propiconazole 25% EC), and ZOLE PLUS (hexaconazole 5% SC) were highly effective against the mycelia growth of spot blotch fungi in all the concentrations (25, 50 and 100 mg/L). Likewise, under epiphytotic conditions highest efficacy against spot blotch as lower percent disease control (PDC) was observed as 75.41% followed by 74.60 % and 68.32 % in the plot having seed treated with Vitavax and plants sprayed with Nativo 75WG (trifloxystrobin 25% +tebuconazole 50%) followed by plot having seed treated with Vitavax and plants sprayed with DILT (propiconazole 25% EC) and plots having seed treated with Vitavax and plants sprayed with ZOLE PLUS (hexaconazole 5% SC), respectively. The present study showed that seed treatment with Vitavax followed by the spraying one of the following fungicides, i.e., Nativo 75WG, DILT, and ZOLE PLUS @ 0.05, 0.1, and 0.1 % respectively could be effective for the management of spot blotch in wheat.
Potentiality of Payment for Ecosystem Services in Community Forest: Linking Upstream and Downstream Households
The characteristics of ecosystem services (ES) and developing a particular mechanism of sharing benefits generated from its uses among its contributors has become a matters of concerns to ecologists, environmentalist and economist. Payment for ecosystem services (PESs) is pursued as one mechanism which is increasingly used to sustain both the natural ecosystems and local livelihoods. A study was carried out in Nawalpur Saraswati-Basamadi Community Forest (NSBCF) in Makawanpur district to assess the potentiality for implementing PES mechanism. This study employed both qualitative and quantitative approaches. Households survey (n=142), key informant interview and focus group discussions were carried out to identify major environmental service and discuss the possibility of creating an institutional mechanism for PES. Discrete choice experiment (DCE) method was used to determine the preferences of both upstream and downstream communities for forest conservation. The study found provisioning, regulatory and cultural services (including forest products, pure and clean drinking water, tourism and recreation etc.) are the major ecosystem services provided by NSBCF and forest products; and pure and clean drinking water being the most important ecosystem services. Community forest was reported as most preferred institution to follow the PES mechanism and indirect payment mechanism got the highest preference among the respondents. Majority of people from both the upstream and downstream community around NSBCF has positive response for willingness to pay (WTP) and willingness to accept (WTA) for ecosystem services. They have strong WTP of NRS. 187.70 per year/HH and WTA of NRS 295.10 per year/HH for the conservation of forest. This shows that both the upstream and downstream communities are willing to conserve the forest and implement the PES mechanism as sustainable conservation approach. Therefore, this study recommends that there are adequate existing institutions at the local level that could play vital role in implementing PES mechanisms. For this the appropriate institution should be identified and their respective role should be fixed. Furthermore, capacity building and awareness program among the upstream and downstream user is essential for the successful implementation of PES mechanism.
Infectious and Non-Infectious Factors Associated with Infertility in Cross-Bred Dairy Cows in Mid Terai Region of Nepal
Infertility refers to the decrease of normal fertility, and it can be associated with various infectious and non-infectious factors. Brucellosis and neosporosis are important infectious causes of infertility in cattle. This study evaluated the association of brucellosis, neosporosis and some non-infectious factors with infertility in cross-bred dairy cows in mid terai region of Nepal. A questionnaire survey was conducted in 100 households from three districts of mid terai region to collect information related to infertility. The cows that did not conceive at least until five month postpartum were considered infertile. Serum samples obtained from 162 infertile cows (Chitwan-62, Nawalparasi-50, Rupendehi-50) were examined using ELISA kits to detect antibodies against Neospora caninum and Brucella abortus.These infertile cows were clinically examined for anemic condition (using eye's mucous membrane)and body condition score (BCS). Overall, 4 (2.5%) and 9 (5.6%) cows were serologically positive for brucellosis and neosporosis, respectively. There was no association of brucellosis with abortion. Abortion cases were significantly higher in neosporosis positive cases (33.3%) than in neosporosis negative cases (9.8%). There was no association of brucellosis, neosporosis, breed and parity with repeat breeding. However, repeat breeding was more prevalent in cows having good nutritional status indicating that there might be other unknown factors causing repeat breeding. Likewise, there was no association of brucellosis, neosporosis and breed with anestrus. However, primiparity, low BCS, anemia, no drenching history since last calving and season of calving (spring and summer) were associated with anestrus in cross-bred dairy cows in mid terai region of Nepal.
Comparing the Effectiveness of 7-Day vs 9-Day CIDR Placement for the Treatment of Postpartum Anestrus in Crossbred Dairy Cows
This study was conducted to compare the effectiveness of duration of Controlled Internal Drug Release (CIDR) placement in CIDR-PGF2α-GnRH protocol for the treatment of postpartum anestrus in dairy cows. Forty cows that were not detected in estrus at least until 60 days postpartum were selected and divided randomly into two treatment groups. The CIDR device containing 1.9 g progesterone was placed into the vagina of cows for seven days (T1, 7-day group, n=20) and 9 days (T2, 9-day group, n=20). One day before CIDR removal, all the cows were injected with PGF2α analogue (Cloprostenol 500 μg). In both groups, GnRH analogue Buserelin 20 mcg was injected intramuscularly 48 hours after CIDR removal. Then cows were artificially inseminated at fixed time (FTAI) 16-20 hours after GnRH injection. Both the estrus expression and the pregnancy rates were similar between 9-day and 7-day groups. Overall estrus expression and pregnancy rates were 97.5%, and 45%, respectively. None of the factors influenced the estrus expression and pregnancy outcomes except that the ovarian cyclicity at the start of protocol tended to affect the pregnancy rate (P=0.06). In conclusion, while applying CIDR-PGF2α-GnRH protocol, the application of CIDR for 7 days and 9 days were equally effective on inducing estrus and pregnancy outcome in postpartum anestrous cows, but the pregnancy outcome depended on the status of ovarian cyclicity at the start of the protocol.
Monitoring Pregnancy Status in Captive Asian Elephants (Elephas maximus) of Sauraha, Nepal Based on Blood Progesterone Profile
Progesterone is the major reproductive hormone in female elephants to maintain pregnancy and is produced by the corpus luteum (CL) and placenta. This study routinely monitored the pregnancy status of captive Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) of Sauraha, Nepal, based on individual blood progesterone profiles. The five captive Asian elephants were selected from the Elephant Breeding Center (EBC) and the National Trust for Nature Conservation (NTNC). A purposive sampling technique was adopted to collect blood samples at an interval of a month for 16 months from the ear vein using a vacutainer set with 18-gauge needles. Blood progesterone concentrations were measured from blood serum samples using an enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The serum progesterone concentration in non-pregnant elephants ranged from 57.01 pg/ml to 123.10 pg/ml (an average: 93.27±6.98 pg/ml) and in pregnant elephants (89.94-340.90) pg/ml, but at mid-gestation, its minimum concentration was 250 pg/ml. In this study, in pregnant elephants, the trend of serum progesterone concentration peaked at mid-gestation and became lowest at late gestation was observed. These findings in disparities in the concentration of serum progesterone levels between non-pregnant and pregnant elephants, with the help of ELISA, could be an avenue in the prediction of pregnancy status in Asian elephants.
In Vitro and In Vivo Evaluation of Essential Oils Against Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc.
Sclerotium rolfsii Sacc., the causal agent of foot rot disease in Capsicum frustescens L. (chilli), is a soil-borne necrotrophic fungal pathogen that leads to significant economic losses. The pathogen’s broad host range and ability to form persistent sclerotia have made it challenging to manage. As an alternative to conventional approaches, botanical and essential oils have been investigated for their disease management potential. In this study, five essential oils were tested in vitro at different concentrations against the pathogen, and only three were chosen for further evaluation in an in vivo experiment on chilli seedlings. The laboratory tests showed that palmarosa and lemon grass completely inhibited mycelial growth of the pathogen at 500 ppm, and at the same concentration, palmarosa, lemon grass, and calamus completely inhibited sclerotial germination. However, none of the tested essential oils were effective against the pathogen in the in vivo test. Despite of having no efficacy in planta assays, the study concluded that the effective essential oils identified in vitro have strong antifungal activity and could be used as an alternative to harmful fungicide. However, more work are warranted for developing proper formulation to maintain their chemical composition in order to manage the disease in vivo conditions.
Intergenerational Transfer of the Farming Occupation in Male Line of Descent: Evidence from Gajuri Rural Municipality, Nepal
Intergenerational occupational transfer is the change in occupations adopted by the successive generations within the members of the same family. This study examined the association of farming occupation between father and the son using Nepalese data from rural context. A structured questionnaire set was used to collect information from a total of 385 father-son pairs in Gajuri rural municipality of Bagmati province of Nepal. Information was collected from the father and the senior son of the family. The quantitative information was analyzed using binary logistic regression technique and the results were interpreted using regression coefficients and odds ratios. Findings from binary logistic regression suggested that in reference to the farming father, the sons of the non-farming fathers were more likely in shifting from agriculture occupation in order to catch the non-farm employments. Among the explanatory variables, son’s own level of education and migration have instrumental role to quitting from farming occupation. Other factors such as level of education and social networks of father have contributed positively in occupational shift between the generations from farming into more diversified non-farm sectors. The finding of this study is salient in designing policies of labour market issues as well as developing strategies to retain youths in rural agriculture in Nepal.
Integration of Urine-Charged Biochar and Chemical Fertilizers Enhances Cauliflower Productivity in Inceptisols
Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea var. botrytis) cultivation in Nepal relies heavily on chemical fertilizers, degrading soil microbes and causing nutrient imbalances. Judicious organic-inorganic fertilizer use is vital for sustainable yields. A field experiment was conducted in Rampur, Chitwan, Nepal, (November-February 2019) to evaluate the effects of urine-charged biochar (UCB) and recommended dose of chemical fertilizers (RDF) on growth and productivity of cauliflower in Inceptisols. The experiment followed a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with six fertilizer treatments: control (no fertilizer), UCB 100%, RDF 100%, and their combinations (UCB 75% + RDF 25%, UCB 50% + RDF 50%, UCB 25% + RDF 75%), replicated four times. Lantana camara biochar, produced via low-cost Kon-Tiki slow pyrolysis, was mixed with cattle urine (1:1 w/w) and applied to the root zone. Plant height, leaf number, canopy diameter, stem weight, root length, root weight, and yield differed significantly (p<0.05) among treatments. The UCB 50% + RDF 50% treatment produced the highest yield (47.3 Mt ha-1) and biological yield (92.35 Mtha-1), surpassing RDF 100% by 24.9% (yield) and 14.9% (biological yield), and UCB 100% by 9.8% (yield) and 7.0% (biological yield). The experiment demonstrates that combined UCB and chemical fertilizer application enhances cauliflower yield and yield attributes compared to sole applications.
Dietary Composition of Asian Elephants in Parsa National Park: A Micro-Histological Approach
The endangered Asian elephants face extreme threats from habitat loss and fragmentation, poaching for ivory, trophy hunting, and human-elephant conflicts. These mega-herbivores require ample forage and exhibit seasonal variations in their food intake. To analyze their diet, we collected vegetation samples through direct and indirect observations of signs such as feeding or damage, as well as dung samples from the core area and the buffer zone of Parsa National Park. A total of 30 species showed the most sign and damage categories in the core area, while 5 species were identified in the buffer zone. Micro-histological analysis of dung samples indicated that both monocots (excluding grasses) and dicots contributed significantly in the core area, whereas grasses and debris were comparatively more prevalent in the buffer zone. The availability of diet and nutritional preferences drive elephant movements and generate conflicts with local communities living in the buffer zone, especially when available habitat is shrinking and preferred species are limited in the core area. It is essential to manage the grasslands within the park by focusing on palatable, nutritious, and preferred species to achieve conservation goals for these endangered megafauna and minimize conflicts with local communities.
Fish Diversity with Seasonal Variation of Water Quality in Fisheries Reservoir, Chitwan
A study was conducted to compare the seasonal variation of fish diversity, water quality and catch per unit effort (CPUE) of Fisheries Reservoir in four seasons viz., spring, summer, autumn and winter from October, 2016 to September, 2017. Water and fish sampling were done monthly from 3 different sites (water inlet, mid part and near water outlet) of reservoir and grouped into four seasons and compared. A total of 17 fish species representing 7 orders and 11 families with 15 genera were found in reservoir. Cypriniformes was the dominating fish order representing a total of 7 species. A total of 14 species were recorded in the autumn season, 13 species in both the spring and summer seasons, and 10 species in winter season. The abundance and CPUE of fishes were significantly higher in spring season (184±57.2 no. of fishes and 7360±2288.7 fishes/day, respectively) as compared to other seasons. The water quality parameters, depth, water temperature, total ammonium nitrogen, and soluble reactive phosphorus were higher in summer season (150.0±2.9 cm, 29.2±0.8°C, 0.78±0.17 mg/L and 0.035±0.004 mg/L, respectively) whereas dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids and electrical conductivity in winter season (4.4±0.2 mg/L, 135.7±0.3 mg/L and 272.6±0.5 μS/cm, respectively). The value of total nitrogen was higher in spring season (1.96±0.26 mg/L). The parameters Secchi disk visibility, pH, Total alkalinity, total phosphorus, nitrite nitrogen and chlorophyll-a were statistically similar in all four seasons. A high density of phytoplankton were observed in the summer season (373.3±17.6 no./L) while the density of zooplankton in the autumn season (160.0±19.3 no./L). Fish abundance declined with decreasing dissolved oxygen, total nitrogen, chlorophyll-a and zooplankton density while it rises with decreasing water depth, secchi disk visibility, total ammonium nitrogen and nitrite nitrogen. Most of the measured water quality parameters were in the desirable range for fish while the number of fish species decreased as compared to the previous studies. To restore fish diversity in the reservoir, habitat improvement through the management of water quality parameters, the stocking of native species, and the avoidance of fishing may be helpful.
Exploring Agroforestry Systems and Their Practitioners in Mid Hills of Nepal
Farmers of Nepal have a long history of integrating agriculture and forestry in the same piece of land as agroforestry (AF). Farmers of different socioeconomic characteristics have practiced different agro-ecological practices on their farmlands. This research was carried out in Raksirang Rural Municipality of Makawanpur District in the mid-hill region of Nepal, to explore major AF systems and determine the characteristics associated with farmers' adoption decisions. Data were collected using direct observation and different social survey techniques: household survey (n=80), focus group discussions (n=2) and key informant interviews (n=9). Two types of AF systems were found to be adopted at the study site, i.e., farm-based and forest-based. Agri-silviculture, agri-silvipasture and home gardening were commonly practiced systems. Landholding size, literacy rate, involvement in leasehold forest and provision of training are the major factors affecting the adoption of the AF system. There was no significant relation between the livestock unit and cast with the adoption of an agroforestry system. In-depth studies on the dynamism of agroforestry systems are recommended.
Morphometry-Based Identification of Tick Species Infecting Rabbits at the Agriculture and Forestry University Livestock Farm
Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are valuable as laboratory animals and farm assets due to their adaptability and rapid reproduction. They can host ticks that feed on blood and transmit various pathogens. Ticks and blood samples were collected from the AFU livestock farm from September 2023 to December 2023. The size of morphologic features was recorded, and the species was identified using taxonomic keys. An automatic hematology analyzer was used for hematological analysis of blood samples. A Giemsa-stained blood smear was observed with 1000x magnification using a binocular compound microscope for haemoparasites. About 32 tick specimens were collected from 16 rabbits, comprising 37.50% adult males, 25.00% adult females, 25.00% larvae, and 12.50% nymphs. All adults and nymphs were identified as Haemaphysalis howletti. The rabbits had a higher prevalence of ticks during early autumn (100%) than in late autumn (0%). There was a significant decrease in Total Erythrocyte Count (TEC), Hemoglobin (HGB), Hematocrit (HCT), and Platelet count (PLT), whereas an increase in Total Leucocyte Count (TLC) and granulocyte count occurred during the tick-infested state in rabbits (P<0.05). In addition, the overall prevalence of Anaplasma spp. was 31.25% in rabbits. Here, tick infestation showed a major role in hematological alterations and reservoirs for tick-borne pathogens. Thus, ultimately affects the health of rabbits, adding potential risk of zoonosis, and a challenge to public health.
Performance of Crossbred Goat Kids (Khari × Jamunapari) Fed with Rice Polish and Maize Flour Supplemented with Probiotics and Enzymes in Tanahun District
An experiment was conducted on 16 crossbred goat kids (Khari × Jamunapari) aged approximately 3-4 months under farmer-managed conditions in Myagde-3, Tanahun, Nepal, from November 15, 2019, to February 15, 2020. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of feeding on crossbred goat kids (Khari × Jamunapari) fed rice polish and maize flour supplemented with probiotics and enzymes. The animals were assigned to a randomized complete block design (RCBD) on the basis of body weight with 4 treatments and were replicated 4 times. The treatment combinations included fodder only (T1), fodder + rice polish + probiotics + enzymes (T2), fodder + maize flour + probiotics + enzymes (T3), and fodder + rice polish + maize flour + probiotics + enzymes (T4). The parameters studied included proximate nutrient analysis of the feed ingredients, feed consumption, the feed conversion ratio, growth parameters (body length, wither height, heart girth and neck girth) and economic analysis. Body weight gain was recorded at fortnightly intervals, and body weight was measured once a month. The cumulative body weight and fortnightly and daily body weight gains were greatest in the goats reared on fodder + rice polish + maize flour + probiotics + enzymes (T4), at 15540.00 g, 7690.00 g, and 91.55 g, respectively. The mean daily feed consumption was highest in goats fed fodder + maize flour + probiotics + enzymes (T3), at 567.54 g. The feed conversion ratio of 5.48 was highest in goats fed fodder along with rice polish and maize flour supplemented with probiotics and enzymes. The greatest body length (4.25 inches), wither height (3.250 inches) and heart girth (4.750 inches) were detected in goats fed fodder along with rice polish and maize flour supplemented with probiotics and enzymes. The highest (1: 3.31) benefit cost ratio was obtained from goats reared on fodder + rice polish + maize flour + probiotics + enzymes (T4), and the lowest (1: 2.00) benefit cost ratio was obtained from those reared on fodder only (T1). The results obtained from the feeding trial revealed that crossbred goat kids (Khari × Jamunapari) reared on fodder supplemented with rice polish and maize flour supplemented with enzymes and probiotics improved live weight, daily live weight gain, feed efficiency, net profit over the control, and the cost ratio.
Climate Change Perception, Agricultural Impacts, and Adaptation Strategies: A Case of Palanta, Kalikot, Nepal
Climate change has emerged as a critical challenge for agriculture in Nepal, particularly in mountainous districts like Kalikot where livelihoods are highly climate-sensitive. This study aimed to examine the quantitative relationship between rainfall patterns, temperature changes, and the economic value of agricultural production, while also exploring farmers’ adaptation practices and the role of agriculture in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions mitigation. A stratified cluster sampling method was employed to select 30 households—10 each from low (1,000 masl), mid (1,700 masl), and high (2,200 masl) altitudes in Palanta, Kalikot—ensuring representation across ecological zones with homogeneous farming systems. Primary data were collected using face-to-face semi-structured questionnaires, complemented by focused group discussions. Multi-criteria analysis was applied to rank existing agricultural practices based on criteria such as net profit, resiliency, GHG emissions, workload on females and children, gender equality, social inclusion, institutional, and technological capacity. The findings revealed an overall economic decline of NPR 2,035.33 per household per annum in major agricultural and livestock components, reflecting a 9.7% reduction in rainfall and a 56.41% increase in the economic value of agricultural components over the past 42 years. Reduced rainfall was associated with decreased crop yields and livestock productivity, resulting in notable household-level economic losses. The study identified five top-ranked climate-smart practices: cultivation of drought-tolerant crops or varieties, promotion of fodder and forage, cultivation of high-yielding crops, beekeeping for forage, and tunnel farming. In conclusion, the research underscores the necessity of precise temporal and spatial understanding of climate-agriculture interactions and highlights the importance of integrating GHG emission considerations into future climate-resilient agricultural strategies.
Conflict Between Human and Asian Elephant in the Buffer Zone of Parsa-Chitwan Complex, Nepal
Asian elephants are the largest land mammals, faced significant threats because of the loss and fragmentation of their natural habitat mainly due to the cropping patterns near the protected areas contributing human-wildlife conflict. The aim of this study was to find out conflict between Human and wild elephant in buffer zone of Parsa and Chitwan National Parks. Social survey with a semi structured questionnaire with Fifty-two elephant affected respondents, three focus group (6-8 people) in each discussion as per the agreed discussion guides and direct field observation were done. The elephants were attracted by agriculture crop near the park. Crop damage predominantly occurred at night, especially during the ripening periods of paddy and maize from June to November. Elephants, initially led by a solitary male, enter after sunset and evaluate the conditions for foraging the crops. Later, a group of 2-3 elephants, including the male, engaged in nocturnal crop raiding before departing by dawn. Crop raiding incidents peaked during this time, aligning with the harvesting seasons for both winter and summer paddy. The damage increased notably during the Paddy season, followed by the Maize season and other crops. Villagers employed active methods like noise making and lighting, while some locals adopted passive strategies such as cultivating alternative crops and harvesting maize prematurely to minimize damage. Villagers prioritized chasing, sound, and stone pelting as effective deterrents against elephant intrusion. These observations underline the seasonal and crop-specific nature of elephant-induced crop damage, and the varied strategies used to mitigate these conflicts.
Effect of Non-Genetic Factors and Temperature-Humidity Index (THI) on Daily Milk Yield of Crossbred Jersey and Holstein Friesian Cows in Chitwan, Nepal
The effect of non-genetic factors on daily milk yield helps optimize production, improve economic efficiency, make informed management decisions, advance breeding programs, and adapt to changing climatic impacts. The present study had the main objective to assess the effect of temperature-humidity index (THI) and other non-genetic factors including year, season of calving, parity, season of milking, and stage of lactation on daily milk yield (DMY) of Jersey and Holstein-Friesian dairy herd reared under sub-tropical region at National Cattle Research Center (NCRP), Chitwan, Nepal. A total number of 88,268 individual daily milk records maintained under the pedigree performance recording scheme (PPRS) during the year 2016 to 2022 involving 50 to 75 lactating cows (depending upon the factors studied) were used for this study. Data were analyzed using General Linear Model procedure (GLM) using R Program version 4.4.1. Least Squares and Maximum Likelihood Estimation methods with unbalanced subclass numbers were used for the analysis of data. The overall mean daily milk yield (DMY) was 8.09 kg with 7.79 kg for Jersey breed and 8.40 kg for Holstein Friesian (HF) cattle breeds at National Cattle Research Program (NCRP), Chitwan. Primiparous (first parity) cows have highest DMY of 8.55 kg with significantly lower production (7.49 kg/day) for secundiparous (second parity) cows. An overall improvement in DMY was observed across breeds in recent years, likely due to breed improvement programs, although a slight decline was noted during the COVID-19 years (2019 and 2020). Highest DMY was observed during early stage of lactation (10.23 kg) and the month of December to May. Milk yield decreases with increasing THI levels (i.e., as heat stress increases), in both Jersey and Holstein Friesian (HF) breeds. This study revealed that milk yield in Chitwan dairy cows at NCRP farm is significantly influenced by non-genetic factors and thermal stress, with Holstein crosses producing more but being more heat-sensitive, while optimal parity, lactation stage, and cooler seasons enhanced productivity.