Potential of Neem (Azadirachta indica) as an Organic Fertilizer and Biopesticide for Improving Soil Fertility, Foliar Pest Suppression, and Okra Growth | Chapter 11 | Agricultural Sciences: Techniques and Innovations Vol. 4

 

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L.) is a vital vegetable crop grown in many tropical and subtropical regions of the world. Okra provides a valuable source of vitamins, minerals, calories, and amino acids. Conventional reliance on chemical fertilisers, while enhancing soil fertility, is costly and contributes to land degradation. Additionally, global interest in biorational pesticides (botanical and microbial) is increasing for the sustainable management of pests. Neem (Azadirachta indica) is a rapidly growing tree from the mahogany family (Meliaceae), and it has traditionally been used in agriculture, the environment, and public health. Recent studies, however, have not explored the promising impact of neem as a basal and foliar organic fertiliser and pesticide. This study was conducted to investigate and examine the use of neem as a basal organic fertiliser and pesticide alternative for environmental and consumer safety. The purpose was to assess the efficacy of an organic integrated pest management (IPM) module against nematodes and insect pests of okra during the primary growing season of 2022. Using a randomised complete block design with three replications, the study evaluated seven treatments, including neem leaf paste (NLP), neem leaf extract (NLE), synthetic fertilisers (NPK), and controls in 5×4 m plots. A total of 42 (21 samples each) soil samples were taken from the study area, bagged, labelled, and transported to the laboratory for physicochemical analysis. The results revealed that the organic IPM module (NLP × NLE) significantly improved soil health parameters by increasing organic matter content by 53% compared to the control, while reducing the C/N ratio. The treatment also showed remarkable pest suppression, decreasing root-knot nematode populations by 89% and maintaining beneficial insect numbers. Neem-treated plots experienced a 40% reduction in foliar damage from Podagrica spp., resulting in a yield increase of 296% compared to the control. These findings demonstrate a practical application of neem in sustainable okra cultivation, thereby offering a low-cost and environmentally friendly solution for smallholder farmers. The result of this study presents a practical application of neem in sustainable okra cultivation by offering cost-effective and eco-friendly solutions for smallholder farmers. The organic IPM module 3 is therefore recommended for improving soil fertility, reducing soil and foliar pest pressure, and enhancing crop yield safely and sustainably.

 

 

Author(s) Details

Adams Sadick
CSIR-Soil Research Institute, Academy Post Office, Kwadaso-Kumasi, Ghana.

 

Esther Marfo-Ahenkora
CSIR-Animal Research Institute, Post Office Box AH20, Achimota, Ghana.

 

Prince Martin Gyekye
CSIR-Soil Research Institute, Post Office Box M32, Accra Centre, Ghana.

 

Judith Frimpong-Manso
CSIR-Soil Research Institute, Academy Post Office, Kwadaso-Kumasi, Ghana.

 

Mohammed Musah
CSIR-Soil Research Institute, Academy Post Office, Kwadaso-Kumasi, Ghana.

 

Augustine Agyekum
CSIR-Animal Research Institute, Post Office Box AH20, Achimota, Ghana.

 

Please see the book here :- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/asti/v4/6273

Diversity of Fish Parasites in Assam: Discovery and Description of a New Procamallanus Species Infecting Ailia coila |Chapter 10 | Research Perspective on Biological Science Vol. 2

Assam, located in northeast India, is home to rich aquatic resources that sustain local fisheries and contribute significantly to food security and livelihoods. However, fish populations in the region are often hosts to various parasites, impacting both aquatic health and public well-being. This study focuses on helminth parasites affecting fish species in the Barak Valley, Assam, particularly the nematodes of the genus Procamallanus. During an extensive parasitological survey, a new species of nematode, Procamallanus (Spirocamallanus) ailiosus n. sp. was discovered in Ailia coila from the Barak River. Morphological analysis was conducted using light microscopy, revealing distinguishing characteristics such as a barrel-shaped buccal capsule with unequal cuticular expansion, 9–10 spiral ridges, and a uniquely structured caudal region. Males exhibited 13 pairs of caudal papillae and a single spicule, while females displayed post-equatorial vulvae with embryonated eggs. The species was compared to existing Procamallanus members, highlighting key morphological distinctions from closely related taxa such as P. (S.) nainitalensis and P. gomtii. Prevalence, abundance, mean density, and infection indices were calculated, with a prevalence rate of 50% in the examined fish. The findings underscore the importance of studying fish parasites in Assam, given their ecological and economic implications. This newly described species expands the knowledge of helminth biodiversity and highlights the necessity of sustainable fisheries management. Further research is required to assess the pathogenic impact of P. (S.) ailiosus n. sp. on local fish populations and its potential consequences for human health.

 

Author (s) Details

 

Keisham Lebanan
Department of Life Science, Rabindranath Tagore University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India.

 

Naorem Mohilal
Department of Zoology, Manipur University, Manipur, India.

 

Please see the book here:- https://doi.org/10.9734/bpi/rpbs/v2/5057

Genetics, Molecular Interactions and Resistance Response of Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Genotypes to Root Knot Nematodes (Meloidogyne spp) | Chapter 6 | Cutting-edge Research in Agricultural Sciences Vol. 3

 The common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) is an essential crop that has become a source of protein for human nutrition. The yield of common beans in the world is limited by many pests, including plant parasitic nematodes. Meloidogyne genus called Root knot nematodes cause serious damage to the common bean among the plant parasitic nematodes. This genus contains more than a hundred organisms that include the world's most toxic bacteria. By taking nutrients and water from plants, they cause harm; plant growth and decreases in yield, root galling and wilting are observed. As nematode resistant and susceptible reactions, common bean varieties and genotypes can demonstrate responses. The genetics, molecular interactions and resistance response of common bean beans in this chapter Genotypes were administered against root knot nematodes. There was discussion of common bean and root knot nematode interactions, molecular plant nematode interactions, determination of the genotype tolerance of common bean to root knot nematodes, the effect of root knot nematodes on common bean genotypes, and the effect of genotypes on nematode reproduction. Overall , this chapter is critical for the understanding of root knot nematode resistance responses for common bean varieties and genotypes, and for future studies of plant nematode interactions in breeding.

Author (s) Details

Dr. Refik Bozbuga,
Biological Control Research Institute, Nematology Lab, 01321, Yuregir, Adana, Turkey

View Book :- https://bp.bookpi.org/index.php/bpi/catalog/book/274