AgroTech- Food Science, Technology and Environment

Impact of Netted vs Non-Netted Agriculture on Soil Microbial Diversity and Activity in Cameron Highlands

2025-09-17T01:46:43+00:00

Soil microbial diversity underpins sustainable crop productivity, yet its responsiveness to protected cultivation systems remains poorly understood. This study offers the first comparative insight into how netted structures influence microbial functional traits in highland agroecosystems. Soil samples were analyzed using soil suspension method to isolated microbes based on its characteristic. It was then further analyzed using Biolog EcoPlates to evaluate microbial populations and substrate utilization. Findings revealed that non-netted structures supported a higher abundance of beneficial microbes, including nitrogen-fixers and phosphate-solubilizers, however it was observed that phosphate solubilizer microbes were absent in the netted system. Microbial diversity was greater in non-netted soils with the Shannon Index of 3.389 than in netted soils of just 3.350, alongside enhanced metabolic activity (Average Well Color Development of 1.960 vs. 1.650 respectively for both non-netted and netted structure). Substrate usage differed markedly, with microbes in netted soils primarily metabolizing carboxylic acids, while those in non-netted soils preferred amino acids. These results suggest that netted agricultural structures may suppress microbial populations and their functional potential, likely due to changes in the microclimatic. Optimizing protected cultivation systems to preserve microbial diversity is therefore essential for sustainable soil health.

Biopesticides for Sustainable Agriculture: Formulations, Mechanisms, Regulations, and Market Trends

2025-08-05T06:02:59+00:00

Insects along with plant diseases present substantial obstacles to agricultural operations because they create risks to food safety standards across borders while damaging ecological stability. Biopesticides obtained from microorganisms, plant extracts and natural compounds allow farmers to utilize secure substances which function as alternative substitutes for synthetic pesticides. The broad application of these substances remains limited due to manufacturing price issues combined with rapid degradation under changing environmental elements. This study examines modern biopesticide creation methods that stabilize their operational qualities for wider natural pest management deployment capabilities. A comprehensive research connects available knowledge of pesticides that derive from microorganisms with genetically-modified farming chemicals and their relationship to four microbial groups (bacteria, fungi, viruses, and nematodes) and natural plant products and signal molecules and microbial bioactive substances. Modern biopesticide formulation techniques using nanoencapsulation combined with microencapsulation technologies and emulsifiable concentrates and bio-based carriers enhance biopesticide decay resistance time and improve coverage distribution capabilities. Results demonstrate both government support and local backing for green pest management allowing biopesticides to integrate into integrated pest management (IPM). The review unites regulatory documents and academic research with business examples to review improved biopesticide formulations. New technologies in delivery systems make biopesticide formulations work more effectively while simultaneously conserving environmental quality and enhancing their use in agricultural fields. Better biopesticide performance and practical use results from the combination of new biostimulants and adjuvants into synergistic formulations.

Evaluating The Efficacy of Slow-Release Fertiliser on Growth Performance for One Time Fertilisation of Sweet Corn

2025-08-08T04:21:39+00:00

Excessive use of fertilisers to boost crop productivity often leads to nutrient loss and environmental degradation. Inefficient fertilizer use and insufficient agricultural labour also become an obstacle for sweet corn production especially in the highland area. To improve the efficiency of inorganic fertiliser, the use of control-release fertiliser (CRF) is designed to minimise nutrient loss into soil. This study aimed to evaluate the efficiency of control release fertiliser on growth and yield performance of sweet corn in a field experiment. The experiment was arranged in a randomized completely block design with four replications and five treatments. T1: control, T2: NPK 15:15:15, applied in three splits at 15, 30 and 40 days (75 gram per plant (g/plant)); T3: CRF at 3g/plant, 15 days after transplanting (DAT), T4: CRF at 4 g/plant, 15 DAT and T5: CRF at 5 g/plant, 15DAT. The results indicated that control release treatment performed comparably to conventional fertilisers in promoting vegetative growth, despite requiring only a single application. Notably, T4 produced significantly higher yield, 35.5% greater than the conventional fertilisers. These findings demonstrate that control release fertiliser can enhance corn productivity while reducing labor inputs and application frequency, offering more efficient and sustainable alternatives for fertiliser management in high land areas.

Effect of Rabbit Urine Liquid Organic Fertilizer and Coconut Water on the Vegetative Growth of Red Canna (Canna edulis Kerr.)

2025-11-24T08:50:29+00:00

This study evaluated the effects of rabbit urine liquid organic fertilizer (LOF) and coconut water on the vegetative growth of red canna (Canna edulis Kerr.). The experiment was conducted from February 2024 to June 2025 in Tohudan Village, Colomadu District, Karanganyar Regency, Central Java, Indonesia. A completely randomized design (CRD) with a 3 × 4 factorial arrangement was applied, consisting of three coconut water concentrations (0%, 50%, and 100%) and four rabbit urine concentrations (0, 10, 15, and 20 mL L⁻¹), with four replications. Growth parameters observed included plant height, number of leaves, leaf length, leaf width, stem diameter, root length, and fresh weight. Data were analyzed using analysis of variance (ANOVA), followed by the honestly significant difference (HSD) test at the 5% significance level. The results showed that rabbit urine significantly affected leaf length and leaf width, while coconut water significantly influenced leaf length and root length. The highest vegetative growth response was observed at a rabbit urine concentration of 20 mL L⁻¹, particularly for leaf length and width. These findings indicate that rabbit urine and coconut water have potential as sustainable organic inputs for enhancing the vegetative growth of red canna plants.

Evaluation on selected Malaysian native eggplant varieties (terung telunjuk and terung rapuh) fungal disease and their control

2025-11-24T08:53:47+00:00

Native eggplant varieties such as terung telunjuk and terung rapuh are gaining renewed interest among Malaysian farmers due to their unique traits and potential for low-input farming. However, these varieties are susceptible to fungal diseases, particularly leaf blight and fruit rot caused by Phomopsis vexans. This study investigated the incidence and severity of fungal diseases in the field and evaluated various disease control strategies using chemical fungicides, biocontrol agents, and botanical treatments. Field surveys identified P. vexans as the primary pathogen, confirmed through morphological and molecular analyses. In vitro assays revealed that biofungicides containing Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus spp. demonstrated superior antifungal activity (97.64% and 93.89% inhibition, respectively), outperforming most chemical and botanical treatments. Moringa extract, neem oil, and garlic oil also exhibited notable inhibition of fungal growth, while azoxystrobin-based fungicides showed moderate efficacy. Field trials further confirmed the efficacy of integrated treatments, especially combinations of biofungicides with azoxystrobin or copper hydroxide, which significantly reduced disease severity and improved yield. The results suggest that integrated disease management strategies incorporating microbial biocontrol agents and selective chemical fungicides offer effective and sustainable control of P. vexans in traditional eggplant varieties.

Comparison of Jackfruit Quality at Two Malaysian Locations

2025-11-24T08:54:44+00:00

Global warming caused by anthropogenic activities has caused climate change that affect the world weather pattern including rising in temperature and uncertain rainfall pattern, which can impact the yield of plants. Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus) is one of the main fruits in Malaysia and claimed as “miracle crop” by climate experts due to its resilience to climate change. The objective of this research is to compare jackfruit quality in two different agro-climatic regions as a preliminary assessment of potential climate effects. The Tekam Yellow (J33) jackfruit variety was harvested from commercial plot located in Kota Tinggi, Johor and Pengkalan Hulu, Perak. Monthly temperature and rainfall data during its fruiting season, encompassing the period from June 2023 until January 2024 were obtained from NASA Power. During those periods, Kota Tinggi, Johor exhibited higher maximum and minimum temperature and higher accumulated rainfall and rainfall frequency compared to Pangkalan Hulu, Perak. The Total Soluble Solids (TSS) and moisture content of jackfruits from both locations showed no significant differences (p>0.05) in this preliminary comparison. While these results suggest jackfruit quality parameters may not be strongly affected by the range of climatic conditions observed in this study, the small sample size, single season data, and presence of confounding factors limit definitive conclusions. Further research with larger samples and controlled conditions is needed to fully assess jackfruit's climate resilience.

Improvement of Village Chicken Management Practices to Enhance Their Productivity in Podosoko Village, Candimulyo

2025-12-26T01:38:55+00:00

Podosoko Village, Candimulyo Subdistrict, Magelang Regency, is characterized by a high proportion of low-income households, many of which keep small flocks of native chickens as informal savings. Despite this potential, traditional and non-commercial management practices have limited productivity and income generation. This community empowerment program aimed to improve native chicken productivity and enhance household income through the adoption of improved management practices.The intervention was implemented through a participatory approach, beginning with Achievement Motivation Training (AMT), followed by technical training on semi-intensive native chicken farming, locally sourced feed formulation, construction of semi-intensive housing systems, and utilization of chicken manure as organic fertilizer. Mentoring and monitoring activities were conducted to support technology adoption and behavioral change among participants. Program effectiveness was evaluated using structured questionnaires and field observations.Evaluation results showed that 100% of participants demonstrated improved understanding of proper native chicken management practices, while 80% actively applied the acquired skills in feeding, housing, and manure utilization. A semi-intensive demonstration poultry house was established, accompanied by stimulant assistance in the form of ten laying-ready female native chickens and one male chicken. A livestock rotation (babonisasi) system was implemented under the supervision of the Women Farmers Group (Kelompok Wanita Tani, KWT) and local PKH facilitators to ensure sustainability and equitable distribution. Within one year, the beneficiary group successfully constructed an additional poultry housing unit independently. Overall, the program demonstrated that community-based adoption of semi-intensive native chicken farming, supported by locally available resources and continuous mentoring, can effectively improve poultry productivity and contribute to increased household income in rural communities.

Abundance of Pests and Predators in Rice Cultivation Practical Lands at The CBSUA Campus

2025-12-26T02:50:55+00:00

This study investigated the abundance of pests and predators in rice cultivation practicum fields at the Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) campus to better understand ecological interactions within the rice agroecosystem. Rice is a strategic food crop that is highly vulnerable to pest attacks; therefore, information on pest populations and their natural enemies is essential for supporting Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies. The objectives of this study were to identify pest and predator species present in the practicum field, quantify their abundance, and evaluate community structure based on diversity and dominance indices. Field observations were conducted on 25 and 27 October 2025 using sweep net sampling and direct visual observation. Data collected included the number of individuals for each pest and predator species, which were subsequently analyzed to determine abundance indices, the Shannon–Wiener diversity index (H’), and the Simpson dominance index (C). The results showed that four pest species belonging to two orders (Hemiptera and Orthoptera) were identified, with a total of 18 individuals. The most abundant pests were Leptocorisa oratorius and Eucriotettix tricarinatus. Three predator species from three different orders (Coleoptera, Araneae, and Odonata) were recorded, totaling 26 individuals, dominated by Micrapis crocea. Pest and predator communities exhibited moderate diversity (H’ = 1.23 and 1.00, respectively) and low dominance indices, indicating a relatively balanced agroecosystem.

Overall, the higher abundance of predators compared to pests suggests strong potential for natural pest regulation. These findings highlight the importance of conserving predator populations to support sustainable rice production through IPM implementation.

The Effect of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) Types and Concentration on Soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill) Growth and Yield

2025-12-26T03:04:21+00:00

This study evaluated the effects of Plant Growth-Promoting Rhizobacteria (PGPR) types and concentrations on the growth and yield of soybean (Glycine max L. Merrill). The experiment was conducted from December 2023 to February 2024 in Krapyak Village, Jepara Regency, Indonesia, at an altitude of approximately 20 m above sea level on latosol soil. The study employed a factorial Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) with two factors: PGPR type (without PGPR, bamboo root PGPR, and commercial PGPR) and PGPR concentration (0, 10, 20, and 30 ml L⁻¹), with three replications. Observed parameters included vegetative growth traits (plant height, number of branches, flowering time), yield components (total pods per plant, empty pods, 100-seed dry weight, seed dry weight per plot), and biomass accumulation (plant fresh and dry weight). The results showed that PGPR type significantly affected the number of branches at 4 weeks after planting (WAP), total pod number, and plant fresh and dry weight. Commercial PGPR produced the highest number of branches, total pods, and biomass accumulation. PGPR concentration of 20 ml L⁻¹ resulted in the highest number of branches at 4 WAP. Significant interactions between PGPR type and concentration were observed for plant fresh and dry weight. However, PGPR application had no significant effect on plant height, flowering time, 100-seed dry weight, or seed dry weight per plot. Overall, the results indicate that PGPR effectiveness depends on microbial source and optimal concentration, with commercial PGPR showing greater potential to enhance soybean vegetative growth and pod formation under field conditions.

Effects of Plant Growth Regulators and Covering Techniques on the Rooting and Growth of Hibiscus tiliaceus L. Stem Cuttings

2025-12-26T05:20:10+00:00

This study was conducted to determine the effect of ZPT and Covering on the Growth of Indian Waru Stem Cuttings (Hibbiscus Tiliaceus L), conducted in Senenan Village, Tahunan District, Jepara Regency from July to September 2023. The study used a factorial experiment with a basic pattern of Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) consisting of two factors and three replications. The first factor is zpt (Z), consisting of 3 levels, namely Z0 (without zpt), Z1 (rapid root zpt), Z2 (root up zpt). The second factor is cover (S), consisting of 2 levels, namely S0 (without cover) and S1 (covered). The observed parameters included the percentage of cutting growth, time of shoot emergence, length and number of roots, length and number of shoots, fresh and dry weight of plants. The final results showed that the treatment of zpt was significantly different in the percentage of growth, time of shoot emergence, shoot length at 8 WAP, and the number of shoots at 10 WAP. The treatment of covering significantly differed in the time of shoot emergence, shoot length at 8 WAP, and the number of shoots at the ages of 4, 8, and 10 WAP. There was an interaction between the provision of PGR and covering on the percentage of shoot growth, time of shoot emergence, number of roots, shoot length at 8 WAP, and number of shoots at 8 and 10 WAP.