BAU Research Proceedings Volume 23, 2013

Title: Evaluation of reproductive performance of Black Bengal goats in the arsenic affected areas of Mymensingh district

Author: M. A. Awal, M. A. Wares, J. Alam and S. K. DasDepartment of Anatomy and Histology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP.1-2

Abstract

Effect of environmental persistent pollutants is now very alarming concern for human and animal health. Drinking water is the principal natural source of arsenic exposure to human and animals along with agricultural products as well as food chains. The toxicological studies pertaining to its reproductive toxicity on animals are very limited. In this study, we investigated the gross and histological alterations of the reproductive organs of Black Bengal goats in the most arsenic affected areas of Mymensingh district. A total of 12 Black Bengal goats of both sexes and of eighteen months of old were considered for this study. They were allowed to free grazing on the open field and free access to natural drinking water. Animals were divided into experimental and control groups. Control groups consisted of 3 male and 3 female goats from Dhobaura upzila of Mymensingh district where arsenic pollution has been detected by Public Health Engineering Department of Mymensingh district. Similarly, control groups consisted of 3 male and 3 female goats and were collected from the local market of Churkai area, where the animals were reared by selected farmer of char Nirloikha. This area still not yet detected as the danger of arsenic pollution for man and animals. Animals were reared on the free grazing land and allowed to drink natural surface water. They were brought to the laboratory of the Department of Anatomy & Histology and sacrificed following conventional method of animal killing proceduresin the laboratory. After complete bleeding, the abdominal and pelvic cavities were opened and immediately removed the male and female genital organs. From male, testes, epididymis and ductus deferens, and from female, ovary, uterine tube, and uterus were collected. For gross study, the specimens were examined for any visual pathological lesions and length, breadth, width and weight of the organs were taken carefully. For histopathological examination, the specimens were taken aseptically and immediately preserved in Bouins solution.The tissues were routinely processed for making the histological slides and stains with hematoxylin & eosin, and Periodic acid Schiff (PAS) stains. Gross anatomical study revealed no marked variations in connection to their length, breadth, width and weight of the organs and when compared with that of control group the differences were not significant. Light microscopic study in male showed thickening of tunica albugenia of the testes and testicular trabeculae, widening of the intertubular spaces among the seminiferous tubules were distinctly observed. The epithelial height of the lining cells of the seminiferous tubule was lower then the control group. Sloughing off seminiferous tubular cells was found on the lumen of the ductuli efferent. 100 rounded seminiferous tubules were selected with PAS-hematoxylin eosin stains. The diameters of the tubules were measured and number of spermatogenic cells, and sertoli cells were counted. Diameters of the seminiferous tubules, and the number of spermatogenic cells and sertoli cells were significantly reduced when compared to that of the control group ((P<0.01). In female, the number of primary and antral follicles of the ovary revealed significantly lower in number

1

(P<0.05).Whereas, the number of primordial and secondary follicles were not differed significantly with the control group. Diameters of the primordial, primary, secondary and antral follicles were observed significantly reduced in the arsenic affected goats (P<0.0). Marked thickening of the membrana granulosa cell layer of the antral follicles were observed in the experimental group. Degenerative changes in the premordial, primary and antral follicles were observed in the arsenic affected area and were significant when compared with that of the control group (P<0.01). Marked thickening of the uterine wall, wall of the uterine horn was observed in arsenic affected goats. The uterine glands were smaller in size, and their diameters were reduced significantly in the affected groups (P<0.01). This work may consider the primary step for evaluating the reproductive performance of Black Bengal goats in the arsenic affected areas, and further studies is needed to explain the level of arsenic doses and the duration of exposure of the Black Bengal goats in the arsenic polluted areas to calculate the gross economic loss due to goat reproductive failure.

Keywords: Toxicology, Reproductive, Black Bengal goats

Title: Epidemiological investigation and molecular detection of Brucella in cattle and goats in Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Islam, L. Akhter, M. A. Islam and M. M. KhatunDepartment of Microbiology & Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP.2

Abstract

Brucellosis is an economically important disease of domesticated livestock. The present study was conducted for epidemiological investigation and molecular detection of Brucella spp. in cattle and goats. Blood samples were collected from cattle (n = 150) and goat (n = 113) on farms, slaughter houses, veterinary clinics in Tangail, Mymensingh and Sherpur districts of Bangladesh. Information of animal’s age, sex, breeding practice, history of abortion was recorded during collection of samples. Aborted tissues such as: fetal abomasal content, lymph nodes, spleen and lungs were collected from 3 cases of abortion in cattle. The serum samples were screened for Brucella specific antibody response by rose Bengal plate test (RBPT). RBPT positive blood samples and aborted tissues were cultured on blood and brucella agar media for isolation and identification of Brucella. The overall seroprevalence of brucellosis was 15.33% in cattle. Prevalence of brucellosis in cattle was 22% in Tangail, 5% in Mymensingh and 16.66% in Sherpur. Prevalence of Brucella was higher in female (19.54%) as compared to male (8.21%). Higher prevalence of brucellosis was recorded in old cattle above four years of age (18%). Cattle with the history of abortion, retained placenta and repeat breeder showed 10%, 4% and 2.85% prevalence of brucellosis, respectively. The overall prevalence of brucellosis recorded in goats was 6.19%. She goats showed higher prevalence of brucellosis (5%) as compared to male goats (2%). Goats over 2 years of age showed the highest prevalence (4%) than other ages. Bacteriological screening of blood samples of cattle and goats and aborted tissues of cows did not yield bacterial growth characteristics of Brucella. Data of this study suggest that brucellosis

2

mailto:[email protected]

is endemic in cattle and goats in the study area. More survey data are required in order to assess the actual prevalence of brucellosis in cattle and goats.

Keywords: Cattle, Brucellosis, Molecular detection

Title: Prevalence of antibiotic resistant bacteria causing clinical mastitis in cattle in Mymensingh

Author: M. T. Rahman, M. S. Islam and M. HasanDepartment of Microbiology and Hygiene Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Mastitis is a very common disease in dairy cows in Bangladesh. The mismanagement and unhygienic rearing of cows is the main cause of this disease. It causes a massive economical loss in our dairy sector. A number of microorganisms are responsible for this disease. The present research work was conducted to study the prevalence of antibiotics resistance bacteria causing clinical mastitis in the cattle of Mymensingh and for appropriate selection of antibiotics in the treatment of clinical mastitis. For this a total of 16 clinical samples (milk) were collected from the mastitis affected cows of BAU Veterinary Clinics and in an around BAU campus. The laboratory work was conducted in the Bacteriology laboratory of Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. After collection, the samples were inoculated in the different bacteriological media such as Nutrient brith, Nutrient agar, EMB agar, Mannitol Salt agar, SS agar, Blood agar for the isolation of bacteria. Bacterial isolates were identified by the Gram’s staining method and biochemical tests. From the16 collected samples, 10 (62.5%) Staphylococcus, 9 (56.25%) Streptococcus, 6 (37.5%) Bacillus and 5 (31.25%) E. coli were identified. Out of 10 Staphylococcus, 7 (43.75%) causes β-hemolysis and rest 3 (18.75%) were non hemolytic Staphylococci. Upon biochemical test all isolates ferment basic sugar producing acid but isolates of E. coli produces both acid and gas. All bacterial isolates showed positive reaction to catalase test except E. coli. Isolates of Staphylococcus were showed positive reaction to coagulase test indicates pathogenic Staphylococcus. The antibiotic sensitivity test of the isolated bacteria against common antibacterial agents is on progress.

Keywords: Cattle, Bacteria, Antibiotics

Title: Epidemiological investigation of anthrax and determination of efficacy of local anthrax vaccine in Bangladesh

Author: K. H. M. N. H. Nazir, S. M. Z. H. Chowdhury1, M. B. Rahman and M. J. HassanDepartment of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh and 1BARC, Farmgate, Dhaka, E-mail: [email protected]


3


Abstract

The present study revealed that 56.67% people of the anthrax affected area lack knowledge about the disease, its outbreak and the consequences. On the other hand, the existing knowledge level of the people regarding proper carcass disposal, washing of grasses and vaccination of susceptible animals was significantly poor. A total of 120 soil, 1 blood and 4 swab samples were examined and B. anthracis was be isolated from 14-soil, the blood and all swab samples. Physicochemical analyses of the soil samples were done for their moisture, pH, Calcium and organic carbon contents. Data derived from the physicochemical study were analyzed based on the presence or absence of B. anthracis and season. No significant difference between anthrax positive and negative samples in regards to their moisture, pH, Calcium and organic carbon contents. However, the moisture and Calcium content of soil samples collected in the anthrax prone season differed significantly from that of dry season. Efficacy of the LRI produced anthrax vaccine is under investigation. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that social, managerial and environmental factors positively influenced the repeated outbreak of anthrax in Bangladesh and the data would be helpful to undertake anthrax control strategies in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Anthrax, Vaccine, Efficacy

Title: Investigation on Infectious Coryza and preparation of biologics from selected isolate(s)

Author: S. SahaDepartment of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail:[email protected] .Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP.4

Abstract

Haemophilus paragallinarum (H. paragallinarum) causes an acute respiratory disease in chickens known as infectious coryza, characterized mainly by conjunctivitis, oculonasal discharge, swollen face and marked reduction in egg production in layer. The rapid expansion of the poultry industry in Bangladesh has magnified the importance of this bacterial disease. The isolation, identification and characterization of H. paragallinarum have not been reported in Bangladesh although there are continuous reports from the farm describing the clinical symptoms similar to the disease, infectious coryza. An attempt was made to isolate H. paragallinarum from suspected clinical cases of Infectious coryza from Gazipur, Tangail and Mymensingh area using various standard cultural and biochemical tests. A total of 52 samples were analyzed however, two clinical samples were found to be positive for H. paragallinarum under the present experimental procedures. In Gram’s staining technique the organism was gram negative small rod. The organism was catalase negative and was able to ferment maltose and manitol but not trehalose. Co-culture with Staphylococcal nurse colony also revealed characteristic colony of H. paragallinarum under anaerobic condition.

Keywords: Molecular detection, Isolation, Control

4

Title: Prevalence, characteristics and antibiogram profiles of Salmonella recovered from chickens

Author: M. M. Khatun Department of Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Salmonella spp. are the most frequently reported cause of food-borne illness worldwide that are closely associated with the consumption of poultry and egg products. This study was designed to isolate and identify Salmonella spp. from cloacal samples of apparently healthy chickens available in the live bird markets and poultry farms in and around Bangladesh Agricultural University Campus, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Salmonella was characterized culturally, biochemical, serologically and by antibiotic sensitivity analysis. This study showed the differences in prevalence of Salmonella spp. in different seasons, chicken lines, chicken ages and location. A total of 200 (90 in Summer and 110 in Rainy season) sample were collected from chickens of different lines and ages, of them, 104 samples were found to be positive (52%) for Salmonella spp. The prevalence of Salmonella spp. was statistically significant (p<0.01) in Summer (67.78%) compared to Rainy season (39.09%). Antibiogram study was performed by disc diffusion method against 10 commonly used antibiotics which revealed multi-drug resistance in most of the isolate tested. The highest resistance was found with Tetracycline (75%) followed by Erythromycin (65%) and Nalidaxic acid (65%), Kanamycin (55%), Chloramphenicol (45%) and Sulphamethoxazole (45%) Furthermore, the isolates were intermediately sensitive to Ampicillin (80%) and Amoxicillin (80%) followed by Gentamicin (70%) and ciprofloxacin (50%). To conclude, the prevalence and drug resistance indicated the possible significance of chicken as a reservoir of multiple antimicrobial- resistant Salmonella and suggest the need for detailed epidemiological study and judicious use of antibiotics.

Keywords: Chicken, Salmonella, Prevalence

Title: Epidemiological investigation on Bacterial diseases in Quail population of Bangladesh and formulation of their suitable control measures

Author: M. S. Islam Department Microbiology and Hygiene, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected] Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP.5

Abstract

5



The present study was conducted for the isolation, identification and molecular detection of bacteria present in oropharynges and cloaca of quail. A total of 80 quail of 3 and 6 months age were taken as source of sample in this study. The cloacal (n=46) and oro-pharyngeal (n=34) swab sample were collected carefully from the birds. The samples were collected from two varieties of quail (Japanese and Dhaka White) from the BAU poultry farm both in summer and winter season. E. coli, Salmonella, and Pseudomonas spp. isolated from oropharynges and cloaca were 48.75%, 43.75% and 7.50% respectively. Prevalence of E. coli was higher in Japanese quails (51.66%); female quails (62.33%); 6 months (53.78%) old quails and winter season (50.00%). Prevalence of Salmonella spp. were higher in Japanese quails(46.66%); male quails (53.13%); 3 months (48.57%) old quails and winter season (53.00%).Prevalence of Pseudomonas spp.were higher in Dhaka white quails (25.00%); female quails (8.00%); 3 months (9.00%) old quails and summer season (11.00%). Antibiogram profiles indicate that E. coli isolated were sensitive to Colistinsulphate, Neomycin, Ciprofloxacin, Chloramphenicol Ampicillin and totally resistant to Coxacillin and Amoxacillin. Salmonella spp.were 100% sensitive to Ciprofloxacin, Colistinsulphate and 100% resistant to Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Cloxacillin. Pseudomonas spp. was fully sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and Colistin Sulphate and totally resistant to Amoxicillin, Ampicillin, Cloxacillin. The molecular detection of E. coli was performed, only the band (585bp) found in 1.5% agarose gel against EC16srRNA primer. Result of molecular detection by PCR was indicating that isolated organism was E. coli.

Keywords: Diseases, Bacteria, Molecular detection

Title: Development of an effective PPR vaccine seed from local isolate and its molecular characterization

Author: E. H. ChowdhuryDepartment of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) is an acute viral disease of small ruminants caused by a Morbillivirus popularly known as Goat Plaque characterized by fever, oculonasal discharges, stomatitis, diarrhoea and pneumonia. The disease is presently considered as one of the major threats to about 22 million of goat population. To overcome devastating effect of PPR, a live attenuated tissue culture vaccine has been developed against PPR by BLRI to control PPR in Bangladesh and is being used by the farmers. Incidences of PPR diseases were noticed despite the vaccination of goats with this vaccine. Local PPR vaccine shows 40-60% protective titer (Proceedings of the Annual Research Review Workshop, 2008, BLRI, Savar, Dhaka), also our vaccine virus is almost 20 years old and not characterized at molecular level and its isolation history is not clearly known. Neither molecular characteristics of the local vaccine strain nor the field viruses of Bangladesh are available. Objectives of the project are development of PPR vaccine seed from local isolate(s); molecular genetic analysis of field and vaccine isolate(s) and development of serologic and nucleic acid based diagnostic methods. The following

6


achievements have been made: 12 field isolates are available in the repository. Molecular characterization (partial sequence of F and N genes) of 11 field isolates completed. Bangladeshi isolates clustered under lineage IV. Two amino acid substitutions on N protein are evident on local Bangladeshi isolates. Three of the isolates are being passaged in vero cell and so far 2 isolates are at this moment on 25th passage. Molecular methods for the detection of F and N genes available. Indirect ELISA developed, yet to be validated.

Keywords: PPR, Diseases, Molecular characterizes

Title: Molecular diagnosis and epidemiology of Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR) in Bangladesh

Author: E. H. ChowdhuryDepartment of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Peste des petits ruminants (PPR) are an acute viral disease of small ruminants caused by Morbillivirus. In Bangladesh, outbreaks of PPR have been occurring in goats since 1993 and cause severe losses to small ruminant production and considering top most threats to about 22 million small ruminant population of the country. Although PPR has been prevalent in Bangladesh for more than a decade, the prevalence and epidemiology of the disease is not known and sensitive diagnostic method is not available. Therefore, the present study has been proposed with the following objectives: to study the descriptive epidemiology and sero-prevalence of PPR in Bangladesh, to adopt RT-PCR for quick detection of PPR virus and study the efficacy of locally produced PPR vaccine. Data were collected from the outbreaks in prescribed questionnaire for epidemiological investigation, 600 sera were collected from six different geographical locations of the country, 100 goats were vaccinated, sera were collected pre, 21st

day post and 6 month post vaccination, and was analyzed by cELISA. Gross lesions were recorded at necropsy from confirmed cases and formalin fixed tissues were processed for histopathological study. Field samples (soaked with filter paper and extracted RNA) were subjected to RT-PCR for the amplification of the F gene. Mortality was higher in the young goat (<1 year). The overall morbidity and mortality was 51.35% and 13.51%, respectively. It was observed that abrupt weather changes like sudden high temperature, movement of animals and introduction of newly purchased animals from the market play an important role in transmission and maintenance of the virus. Congested and consolidated pneumonic lungs, enlarged edematous lymph nodes, brush paint hemorrhages in the heart, intestine and atrophied congested spleen were found. Histologically loss of tracheal lining with infiltration of mononuclear cells in the lamina propria, severe interstitial and fibrinious pneumonia with large mono nuclear infiltration in the lung interestium and alveoli, lost of pneumocyte I and proliferation of pneumocyte II were the major findings. An overall 21% sero-prevalence has been found in the country. The sero-prevalence varied greatly in different geographical locations/districts (Table 1). Results of vaccine efficacy are in progress. A 448 bp fragment of F gene of PPRV was amplified by RT-PCR from the filter paper soaked with a vaccine virus (Fig. 52). Later it was validated with the

7


field samples (Fig. 53). Eighteen PPR suspected goats from different outbreaks were sampled by filter paper and 15 (83.33%) found positive. Out of 15 positive samples, 14 (93.33%) were nasal swabs and 12 (80%) blood samples. Details results were depicted in the Table 2. Although nasal swabs and blood used from the same animals, only nasal swab gave consistent results. Filter paper method of RT-PCR using nasal swab samples could be sensitive tools for the diagnosis of PPR in infected herd. Additionally, this project also attempted isolation of PPR virus from field samples and so far, 7 isolates stored in -80C, of which 3 completed 12 passages. These 3 isolates have handed over to another project funded by SPGR, PIU, BARC for further attenuation. Experimental pathology of PPRV is in progress.

Keywords: RT-PCR, (PPR vaccine, Molecular diagnosis

Title: Infectious Coryza in poultry: Characterization of Avibacterium paragallinarum by conventional and molecular methods along with experimental pathogenesis study by local isolate

Author: M. M. Hossain, S. Akter, M. Ali, M. S. Hossain, A. H. N. A, Khan and P. M. Das Department of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The first research work was conducted for the isolation and identification of Avibacterium paragallinarum, the etiological agent of infectious coryza (IC) along with pathological study of the affected organs in layer chickens of Bangladesh. A total of 30 nasal swab samples collected aseptically from the dead chickens from SK Veterinary Diagnostic Center, Mymensingh and 4 live samples: 2 from Gazipur, and 2 from Tangail. The used methods were culture of organisms in different media, staining, sugar fermentation test, biochemical tests for identification of causal agent and histopathology of the affected tissues. A total of 30 swabs from nasal passage of dead birds died of other diseases cultured for isolation and identification of A. paragallinarum but no bacteria was isolated and identified. Two out of 4 suspected clinical cases of IC confirmed by isolation of A. paragallinarum. The clinical signs of all 4 cases were nasal discharge; conjunctivitis with swelling of the sinuses, face and wattles; decreased feed and water consumption; reduced egg production. At necropsy, the gross lesions noted were mucous in nasal passage and tracheal hemorrhage. Histopathology of the nose showed acanthosis, congestion, mucous glandular cell hyperplasia, hyperplasia of nasal sinus and parakeratosis.The second research work was undertaken to study the experimental pathogenesis by local isolate of Avibacterium paragallinarum in chicks in Bangladesh. One isolate of Avibacterium paragallinarum was used to study the experimental pathogenesis. For this purpose, 24 chicks of 14 days of age were grouped into two (A and B) each group containing 12 birds. Chicks of group A were inoculated with 1ml of 2 days old nutrient broth and were kept as control group while group B were inoculated with 1 ml of 2 days old culture broth of Avibacterium paragallinarum. To study the pathology, 4 birds from each group were sacrificed on day 3, 5 and 7 of post inoculation. Sacrificed birds of group A did not reveal any significant clinical sign and lesion. Chicks of group B showed mild nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, depression and inability to move.

8


The gross lesions of the chicks of group B included mucous in nasal passage, conjunctivitis, swelling of sinuses and face and congested lungs. The microscopic lesions of the chicks of this group were acanthosis and congested blood vessels of nasal passage, pneumonic lesion of lung, focal hepatitis of liver and fatty change and lipid nodules in macrophages of heart which were progressively prominent on day 7 of bacterial inoculation. Avibacterium paragallinarum was reisolated from day 7 of post inoculation (PI) from nasal passage of chicks in which lesions were prominent. The proposed experimental pathogenesis was after intranasal inoculation with A. paragallinarum, rhinitis developed, bacteria entered into blood, reached to different organs producing lesions. From Bangladesh, this is the first time A. paragallinarum was characterized and experimental pathogenesis study was performed.

Keywords: Poultry, Infectious coryza

Title: A coordinated project onto the surveillance of important infectious, Zoonotic and Emerging Diseases of Livestock and poultry in Bangladesh

Author: M.A.H.N.A. Khan, M. A. Habib, G.A. Chowdhury , M.Z. Hossain U.K. Rima, M.S. Islam and P.C. Saha, Department of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail:[email protected]


Abstract

Infectious diseases cause morbidity and mortality of birds and animals included Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Anthrax, Haemorrhagic septicemia (HS), Duck septecemia, Babesiosis, Anaplasmosis, Tuberculosis (TB), Leishmaniasis and Avian Influenza (AI). In this study about 2000 animals were examined and 1356 samples were collected from selected areas of Bangladesh. The samples constituted were 276 for suspected cases of FMD, 659 for Tuberculosis, 78 for Leishmania (13 Golden jackals, 10 dogs, 25 goats and 30 cattle), four for anthrax, five for HS, 79 for Avian Influenza, 180 for brucella, 25 for diseases of ducks in Netrokona haor area and more than 50 cases of unknown etiology. The collected samples were analyzing in Department of Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University and tested by using impression smear staining Histopathology, Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), Reverse transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR), Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay, special staining, serology and routine necropsy. Out of 76 field cases of FMD tested a total of 46 sample were confirmed as serotype “O” and two were Asia 1. A total of eight Serotype “O” and two serotype “Asia-1” were sequenced and found genetic variation among them. Out of 26 Tuberculin test positive cattle 11 were sacrificed and detected Mycobacterium bovis in nine cases and Mycobacterium tuberculosis in two cases. Very virulent TB due to H35Rv strain of Mycobacterium were detected in cattle. Four cases of TB in cattle were multidrug resistance. Nine samples positive to human or bovine Tuberculosis (TB) were also analysed, sequenced and characterize the genetic information. Leishmanial (Kal-azor) genomic DNAs were identified from seven cattle, five goats, four dogs and nine Jackals. Molecular test protocols were adopt and confirmed Brucella in six cases, Babesia in seven cases, Anthrax in three cases, HS in four cases and AI in ducks, dogs and jackals. The epidemic duck mortality in the haor areas was

9

investigated and about 75% dead ducks were found to carry Riemerella anatepestifer. Field isolates of Bacillus anthracis, Pasteurella multocida and Streptococcus spp were grown in culture and genomic characterization is in progress. A data based surveillance is in progress and working with two thousands field data. All those would help in future control and prevention of those diseases in both animals and birds.

Keywords: Livestock, Disease, PCR, RT-PCR

Title: Medicinal properties of different traditional herbs and their effect on plasma parameters and methane production in Ruminants

Author: M. A. Al-MamunDepartment of Parasitology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail:[email protected]


Abstract

Feed shortage is a major constraint for livestock production. Medicinal forage herbs are getting importance to produce safe and functional livestock production. The present experiment was designed to available forage herbs in some selected areas in Bangladesh, their medicinal properties, and feasibility of producing and using as animal feed. The survey was conducted at different places of Mymensingh and Tangail district. The village quake was the key person to get acquainted with the traditionally used herbal plants. The samples of traditionally used herbs (whole plant, stem, leaves, flowers & seeds) were collected from different locations of Mymensingh and Tangail districts. The sample were carried to the lab in ice box and stored at -20 oC for analyses of bioactive components. The polyphenolic components was determined according to Folin-Denis colorimetric method as described by Al-Mamun et al. (2007). Four local non descriptive sheep were used in the present experiment and allowed two diets; Control diet mixed of green grass, maize and soybean; and plantain diet, where 5% of plantain was supplemented to the control diet using a crossover design for two 23 day periods. That is two sheep were fed the control diet for the first period and then the plantain diet for the second period. And the other two were fed in the opposite direction. Daily physiological responses such as respiration rate, rectal temperature, heart rate were performed. Blood samples have been collected for the determination of plasma glucose, plasma NEFA, Blood Urea and blood NH3 –

Nitrogen, and waiting for analyses. Nitrogen balance will be performed using the data collected during the last week of each of the 23 day trials.

Keywords: Livestock, Methane production, Herbs

Title: Prevalence of feline leukemia virus infection among cats

Author: M. S. Rahman, S. Bhuiyan, A. Chaki, A. Nahar, R. R. Sarker and M. E. AlamDepartment of Medicine, Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

10



Abstract

Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that represents one of the most common and important infectious diseases of cats worldwide and it is responsible for more deaths among cats than any other infectious diseases. The cat has been living in close association with humans for at least 3500 years, the history of domestic cat may stretch back even further, as 8,000 year-old bone of humans and cats were found buried together on the island of Cyprus. Currently, the cat is the world's most popular household pet. Prevalence data of Feline Leukemia Virus infections are necessary to define prophylactic, management and therapeutic measures for stray, feral and owned cats which are lacking in Bangladesh. The study was carried out during 1st July 2011 to 30th June 2012 to determine the prevalence of Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) infection in Bangladesh using RapiGEN® Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) Ag Test Kit (RapiGEN® inc., South Korea), a rapid one-step immunochromatographic assay. Blood samples from total 130 cats (23 owned cats and 107 unowned cats) were collected and tested following the manufacturer’s instruction. An overall prevalence of FeLV infection was 1.54% (2/130). Prevalence was found 1.79% (2/112) on Day 0-up to one year aged cats (young) but no positive case was found in above 1 year (adult) aged group. In male and female cats, the prevalence was 1.72% (1/58) and 1.39% (1/72), respectively. In unowned cats the prevalence was 1.87%. Positive cases to FeLV were found only in clinically sick cats. No significant relationship was found according to age, sex, ownership status and health status. To the best of our knowledge this is the first report of the prevalence of FeLV infection in Bangladesh using RapiGEN Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) test kits which is very much effective because it is easy to apply, less expensive and quick screening of such infection in developing country like Bangladesh.

Keywords: Virus, Cat, Infectious diseases

Title: Evaluation of hyperimmune serum for the treatment of Newcastle disease in commercial layer chickens

Author: M. Taohidul IslamDepartment of Medicine, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

An experiment was conducted to determine the efficacy of hyperimmune serum for the treatment of Newcastle disease (ND) in indigenous birds in the Department of Medicine in collaboration with the Department of Microbiology and Hygiene during the period from July 2011 to June 2012. A total of 20 indigenous birds (3 to 4 months old) were divided into three groups, namely A (n = 9), B (n = 8) and C (n = 3). Each bird of all the groups was infected with 0.2 ml (106.5EID50/0.1 ml) of virulent field isolate of Newcastle disease virus (NDV) through oral route

11


of inoculation. Birds of group A were treated with hyperimmune serum (raised in chickens against NDV) @ 2 ml/bird IM after 6 hours of infection before commencement of clinical signs. However, one bird received repeat dose of 1 ml hyperimmune serum IM as it showed clinical signs 20 hours post-infection. Birds of group B were treated with hyperimmune serum @ 2 ml/bird IV after commencement of clinical signs. As no improvement was observed, these birds received repeat dose of 3 ml hyperimmune serum IM 5 hours after first dosing. Birds of group C served as infected control. It was observed that birds of group A (88.9%) did not show any clinical signs of ND except one. However, the only sick bird recovered after repeat dosing. In group B, the results of treatment of sick birds with hyperimmune serum showed that 62.5% (5/8) birds were completely recovered. However, in terms of survival rate, 87.5% (7/8) birds survived with two birds having nervous signs. Therefore, it may be concluded that hyperimmune sera was 88.9% and 100% effective in preventing morbidity and mortality due to ND in birds when administered before commencement of the clinical signs after infection with NDV. And after commencement of clinical signs, administration of hyperimmune sera gave 87.5% protection. However, it is needed to conduct a field trial to explore the efficacy of hyperimmune sera raised in rabbits.

Keywords: Efficacy, Chicken, Newcastle diseases

Title: Molecular epidemiologic study on rotaviruses causing severe diarrhea in man, animal and poultry of Bangladesh

Author: M.M. Alam, M.N. Alam, S. Sumon and N. Kobayashi1 Department of Medicine, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 1Department of Hygiene, School of Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Rotavirus is distributed worldwide as an enteric pathogen in man, animal and poultry. In this study the epidemiology of rotavirus infection in human, calves, sheep, goats and poultry were studied. A total of 1197 fecal samples were collected from July 2010 to June 2012. These 1197 samples were consisted of 535 human, 148 calves, 82 sheep, 10 goats and 429 poultry and examined by Polyacrylamide Gel Electrophoresis and Silver Staining (PAGE-SS) technique for the detection of presence of rotavirus dsRNA. Human rotavirus (HRV) was detected in 11.21% (60/535) diarrhoeic fecal samples. The highest rate of HRV infection was detected in the winter season (18.82%) and in the month of January (23.08%) and no detection was in August and September. The occurrence of rotavirus infection in human patients of 7-12 months age groups were relatively high (14.13%) while lowest (3.17%) occurrence was in above 5 years old. The prevalence of rotavirus diarrhea was slightly higher in male (11.83%) than female (10.62%) patients. No calves, sheep and goat fecal sample was found positive for rotavirus on PAGE-SS technique. During the study period, 429 fecal samples were tested of chicks and only three was found positive for rotavirus infection (0.70%; 3/429) on PAGE-SS technique. The positive sample was detected from 10-20 days layer chicks in the winter season. The migration patterns

12


of detected positive strains were not similar in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and their migration speed was different types. Five electropherotypes were determined among 60 human rotaviruses. All the electropherotypes were long pattern. The genome migration of avian rotavirus type was distinct from human types. In the present study, it was not investigated that bacteria, parasites or any other pathogens responsible for causing diarrhea or not.

Keywords: Diarrhea, Rotavirus, Animal, Poultry

Title: Speed up of genetic improvement of indigenous sheep through Multiple Ovulation and Embryo Transfer (MOET) Technique

Author: F. Y. BariDepartment of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E- mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Twelve indigenous ewes born from parent flock and Nine indigenous adult rams were selected for year two work. Ewes were divided into three groups (n= 4 ewes in each group). Both donor and recipient ewes were synchronized using Cloprostenol (100, 175mg) and FGA (30mg within vaginal sponge), respectively. PMSG (600 iu, 750 and 900iu) were used for induction of superovulation in donor ewes in each group. Natural service was given to the donor ewes after the onset of oestrus. The embryos were collected using surgical method and graded under sterio-microscope after collection (viz, morula, blastocyst and degenerated/unfertilized embryos) and high quality embryos were selected for transfer (grade1). Hundred percentages ewes showed estrus in all groups. There was no significant difference on mean time of onset of estrus among the groups. Highest percentage (53.57%) of embryo recovery rate was observed in ewes treated with vaginal sponge compared with Cloprostenol synchronized groups. There was no significant difference (P<0.01) in superovulation rate among the three doses of PMSG, although the rate was higher induced with 750 iu. However, the mean and percentages of embryos recovered and fertilization rate was higher following injection of 600 iu PMSG compared with 750 and 900 iu. Each semen sample was divided into four aliquots and 5, 10, 15 and 20% egg yolk added diluents were mixed to aliquots 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively and chilled at 5 °C for 48 hours. Semen evaluation was performed on 0 h, 24 h and 48 h in respect of (%) motility, viability, membrane potential and sperm with normal acrosome, midpiece and tail. The percent motile sperm was higher significantly (p<0.05) in each observation time for 10% egg yolk diluted semen. Percentages of live and membrane potential sperm cells were also significantly (p<0.05) higher in 10% egg yolk treated semen on 24h and 48h of evaluation. The variation of sperm with normal acrosome, midpiece and tail in different % of egg yolk treated semen was not significant. Commercial and self made diluents were used in chilled semen to see the effects of preservation. For this, each semen sample was divided into two; Part A and part B. Part A diluted with commercial diluents; Triladyl® and part B with self made diluents. All samples were preserved at 5°C for 24 hours and evaluated on 0 h and 24 h. The (%) of sperm motility, viability, membrane potentiality and normal acrosome, midpiece, and tail of Triladyl® treated semen on 0

13


h was comparatively higher than self made diluents treated semen. The quality of sperm was significantly (p<0.005) differ on 24 h in respect of (%) motility, live sperm, and membrane potentiality in Triladyl® compare to self made diluents treated semen. The difference between percentage of sperm with normal acrosome, mid piece and tail on 24 h in Triladyl® and self made diluents treated semen was not significant. Transcervical artificial insemination (CAI) of synchronized ewes was done using fresh and chilled semen. Pregnancy rate obtained from ewes using undiluted fresh semen for CAI did not differ from that ewe’s inseminated using diluted chilled semen (stored for 24h). The progressive motility, viability, membrane potentiality and sperm with normal acrosome, midpiece, and tail of frozen semen were (%) 62, 70, 46 and 84, respectively.

Keywords: MOET, Indigenous sheep

Title: Introduction of Herd Health Services for Sustainable Improvement of Dairy Production and Marketing through Farmers’ Associations in Bangladesh

Author: M. M. U. Bhuiyan1, M. M. Rahman1, W. J. Goodger2, J. J. Parrish2, H. Momont2, M.C. Wiltbank2, J. D. Reed2, G. Frank2, M. A. Akbar3, J. U. Ahmed1, M. Akteruzzaman4, M. A. R. Siddiqui5, M. K. Chowdhury6, A. B. M. Khaleduzzaman6, M. M. Kamal6, A. H. M. S. I. Khan6

and M. Shamsuddin1

1Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 2University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI, USA, 3Department of Animal Nutrition, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 4Department of Agricultural Economics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 5Accelerated Genetics, Inc., Baraboo, WI, USA and 6Department of Livestock Services, Dhaka, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The objectives of the six-year activities were: 1) to identify the challenges and operations related to the development of dairy markets using farmer associations, 2) to apply on farm herd health services to increase income through efficient and effective delivery of productivity veterinary services (PVS) that includes management of reproduction, health, nutrition and udder health, 3) to validate the digital image analysis method of semen evaluation as a tool to predict the fertility of a bull at artificial insemination (AI), 4) to apply ultrasonography as a tool to diagnose and control infertility in dairy cows, 5) and to apply dairy cattle feeding program based on legume and non-legume forages preserved as hay and/or silage and milling byproduct and to study the epidemiology leading to control of bovine mastitis in Bangladesh. The project was implemented in four districts of Bangladesh (Mymensingh, Satkhira, Sirajgonj and Chittagong) with 300 farms families in each. A Community-based Dairy Veterinary Foundation (CDVF) with participation of dairy farmers association has been established, which has been continuously providing the self-sustained on farm veterinary services to the dairy farms on a full cost recovery basis. The PVS increased farmer income from US$ 1 to 40.7 per head in 30 days in more than 75% farms,

14


increased cattle per farm and generated increased employment for milk carriers. Digital image analysis of semen has been established in Department of Surgery and Obstetrics for prediction of fertility of bulls before selection for AI. The CDVF veterinarians are using ultrasonography routinely as a tool for diagnosis and treatment of infertility in dairy farms with good results. Legumes production as intercrops, relay crops and/or low-cost silage with maze strover were developed, and a concentrate was developed to balance Holstein cross-bred dairy cows feed and resulted in increased farmer income. The California Mastitis Test is in routine use in CDVF operation area for diagnosis and control of subclinical mastitis in dairy farms. Organization of smallholders into private farmers associations has proved itself a driving force for the development of dairying in Bangladesh by increasing bargaining power and skills in the management of farm economics and PVS. In the future, a holistic approach combining AI and PVS with information technologies for performance recording of a critical number of animals as the future breeding stock, molecular technologies for genetic and genomic characterization of economically important traits, the application of reproductive biotechnologies such as ovulation synchronization guided by ultrasound, hormone assays and improvement of nutrition can provide new opportunities for the fast growing dairy industry in Bangladesh to provide milk to feed the people.

Keywords: Production, Marketing, CDVF, Dairy

Title: Development of dry bed direct seeded boro rice production system towards saving irrigation water and attaining food security

Author: M. M. Rahman and M. M. MasoodDepartment of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Dry direct seeding has appeared as the best water saving boro rice production system. Severe weed infestation and poor seedling establishment are the major barriers to this system. Three experiments were conducted at the Agronomy Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during boro season of 2011-12 to select suitable weed management technique for the dry bed direct seeding system, to develop techniques to improve seedling establishment and also to select suitable water management strategy. The experiments are: (1) Effect of integrated weed management on yield performance of boro rice under dry bed direct seeded system; (2) Effect of water management options on the yield performance of boro rice under dry bed direct seeded system and (3) Effect of seed priming and management practices on seedling establishment and yield performance of boro rice under dry bed direct seeded system. Seven weed management treatments such as (i) No weeding, (ii) Hand weeding, (iii)Blade + hand weeding, (iv) Blade + rake + hand weeding, (v) Serius (pyrazosulfuron-ethyle) + hand weeding, (vi) Top (pretilachlor) + hand weeding, and (vii) Panida (pendimethalin) + hand weeding were included in experiment 1. The result showed that application of Panida at 2 and 21 days after sowing (DAS) followed by one hand weeding at 35 DAS gave the highest yield

15

performance. Experiment 2 included seven water management options such as conventional, fully aerobic, alternate wetting and drying (AWD), flooding from panicle initiation (PI) to heading, flooding from PI to grain filling, flooding from heading to grain filling with two mega rice varieties viz, BRRI dhan28 and BRRI dhan29. The result showed that aerobic irrigation up to maximum tillering stage then keeping standing water (2-3 cm) for two weeks gave 8% higher yield with saving of 54% irrigation water compared to conventional transplanted irrigated system. Experiment 3 included three seed priming treatment such as osmo priming, hydro priming and no priming with five management practices viz. Trichoderma harzanium, Sulphur, Fungicide, Sulphur + Fungicide together and control. The result showed that application of Trichoderma harzanium or sulphur fungicide could help improve seedling establishment and yield. The present study concludes that herbicidal weed management, sowing of osmo-primed seed dressed with Trichoderma and maintaining standing water for two weeks from maximum tillering stage could be adopted as best agronomic practice for dry bed direct seeded boro rice.

Keywords: Boro rice, Production system, Food security

Title: Amelioration of salinity stress in boro rice (cv. BRRI dhan47) through sloping bed transplanting and gypsum application

Author: S. S. Hossain, M. Z. Siam, M. Salim and M. A. KaderDepartment of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

An experiment was conducted in the net house of the Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh from November 2011 to April 2012 to investigate the ameliorative effect of application of gypsum and sloping bed transplanting on the yield of Boro rice (cv. BRRI dhan47) under salinity stress. The experiment comprised of (a) two methods of transplanting viz. traditional and sloping bed, (b) two levels of gypsum application viz. control and 1 g kg-1 soil applied after imposing salinity stress and (c) five levels of salinity stress viz. 0, 25, 50, 75, 100 mM NaCl. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. The combination of gypsum application and sloping bed transplanting showed significant ameliorative effect on grain and straw yields of Boro rice (cv. BRRI dhan47) under various levels of salinity. The highest grain yield (5.49 t ha -1) and straw yield (6.36 t ha-1) were obtained from the interaction of sloping bed transplanting and application of gypsum under no salinity level (SG1SO). On the other hand, no grain yield and the lowest straw yield (1.84 t ha-

1) were found in the interaction of traditional transplanting with no gypsum application under 100 mM salinity level (TGOS4). With the increase in salinity stress both grain and straw yields declined significantly. However, the yield reduction could remarkably be minimized at each salinity level using sloping bed transplanting and gypsum application compared to that of no gypsum application under traditional transplanting. Grain yield reductions compared to control

16


were 42.32%, 76.97% and 100% at salinity levels of 50 mM, 75 mM and 100 mM NaCl, respectively when no gypsum was used under traditional method of transplanting. On the other hand, the reductions were only 9.45%, 23.23% and 58.86% when gypsum was applied under sloping bed transplanting. The results of the study suggest that salinity stress in Boro rice could be ameliorated significantly by practicing sloping bed transplanting method in combination with gypsum application.

Keywords: Boro rice, Salinity, Transplanting

Title: Screening for salinity tolerant crop species

Author: S. Jarin, N. Islam and M. A. KaderDepartment of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

A field trail was conducted in the net house of the Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during January to April 2012 with a view to screening for salinity tolerant crop species. The trial included fifteen crop species viz. maize, barley, cheena, kaon, chickpea, lentil, mungbean, blackgram, pea, cowpea, soybean, sesame, mustard safflower and sugarbeet. The performance of the crops was evaluated in terms of seedling emergence rate, plant survival rate, plant height, leaf area and plant dry weight under three levels of salinity viz. 0, 25 and 50 mM NaCl. The results of the experiment clearly indicate that salinity stress was very detrimental for reducing the crop performance in all the crop species used in the study. All the crop species showed their best performance regarding highest emergence rate, seedling survival rate, plant height, leaf area and plant dry weight in the treatment with no salinity whereas the worst performance was exhibited under the salinity stress of 50 mM NaCl. All the plant parameters studied were inhibited remarkably due to salinity stress and very importantly the inhibition varied among the crop species. The lowest inhibition in terms of seedling emergence, plant survival rate, plant height, leaf area and plant dry weight was always recorded in sugarbeet. On the other hand, highest inhibition in seedling emergence and seedling survival rate was noticed in mustard, plant height in mungbean, leaf area in chick pea and plant dry weight in lentil. Five most salinity tolerant crop species appeared in the study were sugarbeet > safflower >barley > maize > sesame. On the other hand, mustard, lentil, black gram, mungbean, soybean showed the most sensitivity to salinity stress. From the results it could be concluded that salinity tolerance of the crop species varied considerably because of their inherent abilities and this variability might be of use in future study for identifying the salinity tolerant crop species under field condition of coastal areas of Bangladesh.

Keywords: Salinity tolerant crop, Performance

Title: On-farm study on intercropping of hybrid maize with short duration vegetables

17


Author: U.K. Sarker1, S. Dey2, S. Kundu3 and M.A. Awal4 1Department of Agronomy, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 2OFRD, BARI, Mymensingh, 3Planning and Evaluation Division, BARI, Gazipur and 4Planning and Evaluation Division, BARC, Farmgate, Dhaka.


Abstract

The experiment was conducted at Multi Location Testing (MLT) site, Netrakona during rabi season of 2009-10 and 2010-11 to study the feasibility of intercropping of hybrid maize with different short duration vegetables and economic returns. Three intercrop combinations of hybrid maize along with sole maize were arranged in Randomized Complete Block Design replicated six times. There were four treatments viz., T1- Sole crop of maize, T2 - Three rows of red amaranth (25 cm apart) in between two (75 cm apart) rows of Maize, T3 - Three rows of bush bean (25 cm apart) in between two (75 cm apart) rows of Maize and T4 -Three rows of garden pea (25 cm apart) in between two (75 cm apart) rows of Maize. Yield contributing characters and yield of maize did not varied significantly due to intercropping with vegetables. The grain yield of maize in intercropped combination varied from 7.30-7.43 t/ha. But the highest grain yield (7.68 t/ha) was in sole maize. Maize equivalent yields in the intercrops ranged from 10.67-14.96 t/ha. The highest maize equivalent yield (14.96 t/ha), gross return (Tk. 224400/ha), gross margin (Tk.166830/ha) and benefit cost ratio (3.90) were obtained in maize + garden pea combination. The lowest maize equivalent yield (7.68 t/ha), gross return (Tk. 115200/ha), gross margin (Tk. 64128/ha) and benefit cost ratio (2.26) were obtained from sole crop of maize.

Keywords: On-farm, Hybrid maize, Economic return

Title: Integrated and balanced use of manures and fertilizers for sustenance of soil fertility and crop productivity in the Rice-Rice and Wheat- Rice systems

Author: M. R. IslamDepartment of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Two independent experiments were carried out at the Soil Science Field Laboratory of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh in 2011-12 to evaluate the effect of integrated and balanced use of manures and fertilizers for sustenance of soil fertility and crop productivity in the Rice-Rice and Rice-Wheat systems. The manures used were cowdung (CD), poultry manure (PM) and compost (Com) and the fertilizers used were urea, TSP, MoP, gypsum, ZnO and boric acid. The soils of the experimental sites belong to Sonatala Series having silt loam

18

texture. The soil of the experimental site 1 has got pH 6.18, organic matter content 2.15%, total N 0.124%, available P 6.51 ppm, exchangeable K 0.074 me%, available S 14.85 ppm and CEC 12.5 me% and that of the experimental site 2 possesses pH 6.69, organic matter content 1.19%, total nitrogen 0.134%, available P 11.26 ppm, exchangeable K 0.114 me 100-1g soil, available S 14.5 ppm and CEC 12.06 me 100-1g soil. Both the experiments had six treatments laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with four replications. The treatments were T 0

(Control), T1: STB-CF (Soil Test Basis-Chemical Fertilizer) (High Yield Goal, HYG), T2: OM1 (CD) + STB-CF (HYG), T3: OM2 (PM) + STB-CF (HYG), T4: OM3 (CoM) + STB-CF (HYG) and T5: FP (Farmers’ Practice). The results demonstrate that application of manures and fertilizers significantly increased the grain and straw yields of rice and wheat in Rice-Rice and Rice-Wheat systems. The treatment T3 receiving poultry manure in combination with soil test basis chemical fertilizers produced the highest grain and straw yields of both rice and wheat. The lowest grain and straw yields were found for T0 (Control) treatment. However, both the experiments will be repeated for one more year to make concrete recommendations on sustenance of crop productivity and soil fertility.

Keywords: Fertilizer, Soil, Production system, Compost

Title: Mitigation of salt stress by enhancement of antioxidant defense systems with proline in rice

Author: M. A. HoqueDepartment of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Salinity impairs antioxidant defense systems in plants. Up-regulation of the antioxidant defense systems provided by proline protects plants against salt stress. The pot experiments were conducted to investigate the protective effects of proline on rice against salt stress. Salt-sensitive (BRRI dhan47 & BRRI dhan29) and salt-tolerant (BINA dhan8 & BRRI dhan47) rice varieties were used as test crops. Plants were exposed to different concentrations of NaCl and proline at vegetative stage. Proline was applied as a foliar spray at a volume of 25 mL per plant as per treatment. The treatment combinations were control (no NaCl or proline), 25 mM NaCl, 50 mM NaCl, 100 mM NaCl, 25 mM NaCl+25 mM proline, 50 mM NaCl+25 mM proline, 100 mM NaCl+25 mM proline, 25 mM NaCl+50 mM proline, 50 mM NaCl+50 mM proline, and 100 mM NaCl+50 mM proline. Salt stress decreased growth and yield of both salt-sensitive and salt-tolerant rice. Both salt-sensitive and salt-tolerant varieties produced grains at 50 mM NaCl stress during aman season but not in boro season. Proline application improved the growth and yield of salt-sensitive rice but not of salt-tolerant rice under NaCl stress. Salt stress decreased chlorophyll and ascorbate contents in both varieties. In response to salt stress, proline accumulation increased in salt-sensitive rice. Salt stress decreased the activity of catalase, peroxidase and ascorbate peroxidase in salt-sensitive rice, whereas only peroxidase activity decreased in salt-tolerant rice. Under salt stress, exogenous proline resulted in an increase in chlorophyll content and proline

19

accumulation in salt-sensitive rice, and an increase in ascorbate contents in both varieties. Furthermore, exogenous application of proline enhanced the activities antioxidant enzymes in both varieties under salt stress. The present study suggests that proline improves salt tolerance in salt-sensitive rice by increasing proline accumulation and enhancing antioxidant defense system.

Keywords: Salt stress, Antioxidant, Rice

Title: Organic amendments for mitigating soil salinity in rice-maize cropping system

Author: M. A. HoqueDepartment of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Accumulation of organic compound is one of the adaptive mechanisms to salt stress in plants. The pot experiments were conducted with two rice (salt-sensitive; BRRI dhan29 & salt-tolerant; Binadhan-8) and two hybrid maize (BARI Maize-5 and Pacific-987) varieties to mitigate the adverse effects of salt stress on rice and maize through organic amendments. Plants were exposed to salinity at vegetative stage. Proline was applied as a foliar spray at a volume of 25 mL per plant. Farmyard manure (FYM) and poultry manure (PM) were added to the soils before planting. Salt stress caused a significant decrease in growth and yield of rice and maize. High salinity drastically decreased growth of both crops. Proline application significantly improved growth and yield of both rice and BARI Hybrid Maize-5 in response to salt stress. Binadhan-8 and BARI Hybrid Maize-5 conferred tolerance to high salt stress when proline was applied exogenously. Salt stress decreased chlorophyll contents and K+/Na+ ratio in both rice and activities of antioxidant enzymes in BRRI dhan29 but increased proline accumulation in BRRI dhan29. Overall, application of proline increased chlorophyll and ascorbate contents, proline accumulation, K+/Na+ ratio, and activities of antioxidant enzymes in rice under salt stress. Proline application also increased chlorophyll contents, K+/Na+ ratio and nutrient uptake by maize under salt stress. Both FYM and PM increased chlorophyll content, K+/Na+ ratio and nutrient uptake, thereby mitigating the adverse effects of salinity on rice and maize. BARI Hybrid Maize-5 conferred tolerance to high salinity when soils were amended with manures. Additionally manures improved electrical conductivity, exchangeable Na and organic matter status in soils at saline condition. The present study suggests that organic amendments with proline or manure improve salt tolerance in rice and maize by increasing chlorophyll content, K+/Na+ ratio, nutrient uptake, proline accumulation and antioxidant defense system.

Keywords: Cropping system, Organic compound

Title: Development of a rapid in-field colorimetric method for soil organic matter determination

Author: M. A. Kader

20


Department of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail:[email protected]


Abstract

Most of the methods to determine soil organic carbon content are constrained by the time or required equipment, thereby limiting their use in determining soil organic carbon at field level. Therefore, a laboratory analytical study was carried out in the Department of Soil Science of Bangladesh Agricultural University at Mymensingh to find out a suitable extractant with appropriate dilution for determining soil organic matter as a part of an ongoing effort for developing a low cost quick method for determining soil organic matter at field level. For this purpose, 47 soil samples were collected from different AEZ to represent typical rice based cropping pattern covering a sufficient range in texture, soil organic matter, pH, and soil management. Three extractants e.g. NaOH, NaOH + EDTA and NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl with soil dilution ratio of 1: 50, 1: 100 and 1: 200 were used to extract organic matter from soil. Humic acid was used for the preparation of standard series in NaOH, NaOH + EDTA and NaOH + Pyrophosphate solutions. Soil organic carbon measurements by CNS analyser were used as reference measurement to compare the efficiency of the three selected extractants in three different soil solution ratios. Both the extractant solution and soil dilution showed different degrees of error in OC measurement. The error sum square of NaOH, NaOH + EDTA & NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl measured at 1: 50, 1: 100 and 1: 200 ratios were 235, 179, 441, 424, 500, 619, 75, 107 and 929, respectively. Based on error sum square, NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl extractant performed better than NaOH and NaOH + EDTA in extracting SOC and also the soil:extractant ratio of 1: 50 and 1: 100 corresponded well with the reference CNS OC measurement. NaOH + EDTA at soil:extractant ratio of 1: 200 showed the highest correlation coefficient value of 0.762 with the reference OC measurement . However, correlation coefficient value between NaOH + EDTA and NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl at soil:extractant ratio of 1: 50 and 1: 100 and reference CNS OC measurement were also remarkable and close to the highest value. Considering both correlation study and error sum square, it can be concluded that NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl was the best extracting solution at 1: 50 dilution. Variations in intensity of colour of the soil extracts depending on organic matter content indicate that it would be possible to develop a new low cost method for soil organic matter determination at field level by using NaOH + Pyrophosphate + HCl as the extractant.

Keywords: Colorimetric, Organic matter

Title: Assessment of Municipal solid waste compost as a carrier for biofertilizer production

Author: M. M. Rahman Department of Soil Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


21


Abstract

The experiment was conducted in the Department of Soil Science of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU), Mymensingh during the period from January 2011 to May 2012 to evaluate the suitability of municipal solid waste (MSW) compost as a carrier material for biofertilizer production. Inoculants were prepared with four carrier materials including MSW compost and three Rhizobium strains. Rhizobium strains designated as BAU 107, BAU 118 and BAU 151 were collected from the Microbiology laboratory of the Department of Soil Science, BAU, Mymensingh. All the Rhizobium strains under study were motile, Gram negative and rod shaped, and they produced alkali and absorbed congo red dye weakly. The inoculants were stored at room temperature (28± 50C). Survival of rhizobia in the inoculants was counted at 0, 20, 40, 60 and 80 days of storage. Among the three strains, the BAU 107 recorded the highest survival in the inoculants at room temperature. The study reveals that peat was the best carrier material compared to cowdung, MSW compost and poultry manure for preparing inoculant. The peat based carrier recorded the Rhizobium population (BAU 107) of 4.08 × 109/g inoculant. The strain BAU 118 also showed reasonable survival counts with peat and cowdung as carrier materials. The viability of all the strains reduced after 20 days of storage. Overall results suggest that the strains BAU 107 gave considerably higher population upto 20 days of storage under room temperature in peat as well as in cowdung based inoculants while the lowest count was noted with the strain BAU 151 in poultry manure based inoculant. The results also showed that the peat based carrier was the most suitable for the production of biofertilizer and it was followed by cowdung , compost and poultry manure based carrier.

Keywords: Bioferlizer, MSW, Compost

Title: Evaluation of different indigenous plant extracts against Sitophilus oryzae L. and isolation and identification of active compound(s) from the most promising plant

Author: M. Shahjahan and M. Kamruzzaman Department of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Experiments were carried out at the laboratory of the Department of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) and Entomology Division, Bangladesh Institute of Nuclear Agriculture (BINA), Mymensingh, during the period of July, 2011 to June, 2012. The n-hexane, dichloromethane (DCM) and methanol extracts of leaf and seed/fruit of Karanja, Pongamia pinnata (L.); Mahogany, Swietenia mahogani Jacq.; Neem, Azadirachta indica A. Juss. and Urmoi, Sapium indicum Willd. at 2.0, 4.0, 6.0, 8.0 and 10.0% (w/v) concentrations were evaluated for their insecticidal, repellent, antifeedant and residual effect against rice weevil,

22

Sitophilus oryzae. The result showed that extracts of all the four tested plants had insecticidal, repellent, antifeedant and residual effects on the pest. Among the test plants, Urmoi showed the highest toxic effect (mortality, 47.00%), whereas Mahogany possessed the lowest toxic effect (mortality, 35.56%) for rice weevil at 72 HAT. Among the solvents, dichloromethane extract showed more toxicity than other extracts. Mortality percentage increased with the progress of time. The seed/fruit extract was more toxic than leaf extract. Comparing the extracts, the highest repellency (repellency, 56.17%) was observed in urmoi fruit extract and lowest (repellency, 31.82%) on karanja on rice weevil (repellency 56.17%). The results also showed that urmoi plant extract had the highest antifeedant effects and neem showed lowest antifeedant effects on rice weevil having total coefficient of deterrence 126.52 and 89.20, respectively. Among the extracts, urmoi plant extract had the highest residual effects on the rice weevil. No F1 adult emergence & grain infestation and the highest inhibition were found in rice grains treated with 10% urmoi plant extract. In case of repellent, antifeedant and residual effect n-hexane/dichloromethane/methanol extract was the most effective. The effectiveness of most of the plant extracts were found to increase proportionately with the increase of doses and decreases proportionally with the increase of time. The seed/fruit extract was more effective than that of leaf extract.

Keywords: Indigenous plant, Extract, Evaluation

Title: Bio-ecology and eco-friendly management of red pumpkin beetle, Aulacophora foveicollis (Lucas)

Author: M. M. UddinDepartment of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Email: [email protected]


Abstract

A research work on bio-ecology and ecofriendly management of red pumpkin beetle (RPB) was conducted in the field laboratory and laboratory of the Department of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymesingh. The main objective of the research was to study the host preference and to develop a proper management strategy for this pest. A choice test was conducted to determine the host preference using twelve different varieties of three cucurbitaceous crops. Host preference was determined on the basis of insect incidence, percentages of leaf infestation, number of eggs plant-1, and leaf area damage caused by this pest. In the field experiment at all three stages, the highest incidence of beetle plant -1 was observed on sweet gourd and the lowest on bitter gourd. The highest number of RPB was observed on Local Misti Kumra at all three stages but the lowest number of RPB was found on BARI Karola-1 at seedling stage and on Taj Karola-88 at flowering stage and on Local Karola at fruiting stage in the field. At all three stages the highest percentage of leaf infestation was found on sweet gourd and the lowest on bitter gourd in the field. Among nine varieties, the highest percentage of leaf infestation was recorded on Local Misti Kumra at all three stages in the field. The highest food consumption was recorded on sweet gourd among crops and the highest leaf area damage was

23


found on Local Misti Kumra among nine varieties in net cage. But the highest average number of eggs was found on sweet gourd on BARI Misti Kumra-1 in net cage. The total and daily food consumption was the highest on Local Misti Kumra whereas the lowest was recorded on Local Karola among nine varieties. The highest percentage of weight loss due to feeding of beetle was recorded on sweet gourd among crops and the highest percentage of weight loss was recorded on Local Misti Kumra among varieties in the laboratory. The second experiment was conducted in the Entomology field laboratory to manage the red pumpkin beetle using three botanicals (neem oil, mehagoni oil and bishkatali leaf extract) and two synthetic insecticides (larvin 75 WP and diazinon 60 EC) on BARI Lau-4. The efficacy of botanicals and insecticides was reduced to manage the beetle after 72 hours of application. The number of insect per plant was markedly reduced upto 72 hours but then efficacy of insecticides also reduced to certain extent with passing of time after application. Among the botanicals 7.5% level of neem oil showed the highest effectiveness and the lowest number (0.53) of beetle was observed per plant. On the other hand 5% bishkatali leaf extract was the least effective to manage the red pumpkin beetle where the highest number (1.47) of beetle was recorded. Both larvin 75 WP (2 g/L) and diazinon 60 EC (2.5 ml/L) were very effective to control the red pumpkin beetle where 0.27 and 0.33 beetle per plant was observed, respectively. The highest reduction (11.33 %) of leaf infestation was at 2.5 g/L larvin75 WP. Among the three botanicals maximum reduction (5.00%) of leaf infestation was found at 7.5 % neem oil application. It was concluded that neem oil at 7.5%, larvin75 WP at 2 and 2.5 g/L and diazinon 60 EC at 2 and 2.5ml/L were most effective in the management of red pumpkin beetle.

Keywords: Eco-friendly management, Pest, Red pumpkin beetle

Title: Bio-efficacy of biopesticide of biopesticide against jute hairy caterpillar, Spilarctia obliqua, walker (Lepidoptera: Arctiidae)

Author: M. AhmadDepartment of Entomology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Originally the project was started to find out the effect of Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) and Neem based pesticides on the biology, their combined effect, calculation of LD50 and also to determine the compatibility of microbial and botanicals against S. obliqua. In order to determine the first experiment i.e. effect of Bt and Neem based bio-pesticide on the biology and fecundity of S. obliqua, the first study was conducted in the Laboratory of the Entomology Department, BAU. The stock culture maintained having the condition of 16L: 8D photoperiod, 25±100C temperature and 70–75% RH. Biological parameters studied are – average eggs per female 500; hatching period 8–11 days, larval and pupal period recorded 19–23 days and 9–11 days respectively. Longevity and total life span found 5–8 days and 41–53 days respectively. Since, the first PI left

24


the country to abroad for long and sudden termination of the project other proposed work could not be carried out.

Keywords: Biopesticide, Biological parameters

Title: Effects of postharvest treatments on physico-chemical properties and shelf life of papaya

Author: M. K. HassanDepartment of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Papaya is a nutritious but perishable climacteric fruit. The estimated postharvest loss of papaya in Bangladesh is 39.90% (Hassan 2010). Therefore, the present research was undertaken to reduce postharvest loss of papaya by manipulating normal pattern of postharvest physiology and by minimizing microbial spoilage. An experiment comprised eight postharvest treatments, namely thin plastic film wrap, low temperature storage (15ºC), hot water treatment, modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) with or without perforations, MAP with KMnO4 and paraffin coating. The longest shelf life (20 days) was recorded in fruits wrapped with thin plastic film. Another experiment was conducted to find out non-chemical alternatives for shelf life extension of papaya, where the longest shelf life (9.33 days) was recorded in fruits treated with garlic extract followed by garlic tablet solution (8.75 days), whereas the shortest shelf life (5.92 days) was observed in the control fruits. Another experiment examined the effects of low temperature regimes for long-term storage of papaya. Results revealed that the longest shelf life (26.00 days) was recorded in fruits held at 10°C, whereas the shortest shelf life (11.00 days) was obtained in control fruits. However, fruits held at 10°C failed to ripe properly after bringing out from storage. Nonetheless, the shelf lives of fruits held at 15 and 20°C were significantly extended, and were 20.83 and 16.71 days, respectively. Another striking result of the present project was that papaya fruits harvested with peduncle had significantly longer shelf life than the desapped fruits, and which result could be possibly due to the retention of latex inside the fruits. It was assumed that papaya latex contained enormous amounts of antimicrobial compounds which might have inhibited fungal infection and hence prolonged shelf life. These findings also have commercial implications in the extension of shelf life through the exploitation of natural defense mechanism of papaya.

Keywords: Harvest, Chemical, Papaya

Title: Carrot and onion seed production and related postharvest innovations to provide well adapted and nutritious vegetables for Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Rahim, P. W. Simon, M. J. Havey, M. S. Alam and M. M. A. HossainDepartment of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, E-mail: [email protected]. Bangladesh

25



AbstractDeveloped of SNP and SSR molecular marker datasets for carrot and onion germplasms with potential use in Bangladesh. Carrot samples gathered and samples evaluated, summarized and compared to other diverse carrots. Establish Bangladesh oriented crop production and postharvest storage guidelines and manuals, programs and cell phone based information to integrate water, nutrient and pest management practices that optimize inputs, minimize off target impacts, and provide sound postharvest storage practices for seed production. Evaluation of root pruning effects on carrot seed yield, based on preliminary indications this influences seed yield in Bangladesh. Second year of the project yielded useful data and seed samples. Sample evaluation has been completed for last year and initiated for this year. Field trial of onion and carrot in Bangladesh is ongoing by MS and PhD students. Development of plans to evaluate postharvest storage conditions suitable to preserve and vernalize the carrot and onion crops to induce flowering, and applicable for use in Bangladesh. Samples for vernalization studies were grown and collected; evaluation completed. Development of crop production, postharvest storage, and seed production guidelines. Carrot production workbook was prepared as a first step. This will be reviewed by cooperators from Bangladesh and then translated into appropriate language and media for distribution. Next steps include onion production guide, innovative storage systems appropriate for current available technology. Finally, seed production information is being assembled for creation of appropriate management guidelines. Trials in Bangladesh to evaluate agronomic practices on onion and carrot seed crop productivity are being planned and planted.

Keywords: Germplasms, Onion, Carrot, Harvest

Title: Adaptive research on BAU developed high value, nutritive rich fruit varieties in different region with special emphasis on extreme saline tolerant and sandy areas of Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Rahim, M. H. Rahman1, M. H. Rahman and M. S. Alam1,3&4Department of Horticulture and 1Department of Agricultural Extension Education, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The adaptive research was conducted in three selected regions, namely sandy area of extreme north (Lalmonirhat, Kurigram, Rangpur and Gaibandha districts), north-western region (Pabna, Sirajganj and Natore district), and saline area (Barisal and Bagerhat districts).Fifteen upazilas were selected and four demonstration plots of mixed fruit gardens with 11 fruit varieties were established in each of the selected upazilas, i.e., a total of 60 demonstration plots were set up. The actual site selection was done in consultation with the concerned Upazila Agricultural Officers. The ICM club members of the upazilas were the beneficiaries of the demonstration plot activity. Besides the demonstration plot, all members of the concerned ICM clubs received 4

26


saplings for homestead plantation. The demonstration farmers were given a four-day training on Fruit Tree Propagation and Fruit Mother tree Orchard Management at BAU-GPC, Mymensingh. A total of 14774 saplings (7,357 saplings for demonstration plots, 5,600 saplings for household plantation and, 1,817 saplings for gap filling) were distributed among the beneficiaries for 60 sites. The demonstration farmers were also provided with inputs for management of the gardens. Not only the IPM/ICM club farmers were given training but also the training was provided to the concerned UAOs and AEOs. In addition, three field days were organized in the three regions with the presence of interested farmers, demonstration plot owners, concerned DDAE, UAOs and SAAOs. The project personnel’s and the personnel’s from implementing agency regularly monitor the field activities. Another important aspect of the project was to provide 13 in-situ training on Fruit Tree Propagation and Orchard Management in 13 selected gardens involving 3 farmers from each of the 10 surrounding clubs. A total of 259 farmers (male 133 and female 126) participated in this training. Although a total of 60 mixed fruit gardens were established initially in the project areas, a total of 41 gardens were found active after six months of plantation. Until the end of the project period (August, 2012), some more garden owners were found not continuing the garden due to various reasons. Finally, the number of successful gardens under the project ended up to 29. Fruit varieties of mango, guava, jujube, wax jambu, lemon, sapota, carambola, amloki, malta and hog plum were found having excellent performance in “low salinity” area of Agailjhara (Barisal district), while for extreme saline upazilas of Mongla and Morelganj, “good” to “excellent” performance were observed in the varieties of mango, guava, jujube, sapota, carambola, amloki and hog plum. “Good” to “excellent” performance were observed for all supplied varieties of mango, guava, jujube, jamrul, lemon, sapota, carambola, amlokii, malta, pummelo and hog plum in almost all plots of extreme north areas under the selected upazilas of Kurigram, Lalmonirhat, Rangpur and Gaibandha districts. The performances of the above-mentioned varieties showed mixed, “fair” to “good” in the north-western districts (Natore, Pabna and Sirajganj). Another additional outcome of the project is 4 PhD students are working for their dissertation research on four important topics in this project and expected to complete their degrees by the end of 2013. It was found that the farmers are generally interested in the BAU developed fruit varieties. The participating farmers possessed favourable attitude toward the varieties. Many women were found actively participated in fruit production activities while some farmers have already started multiplication and selling of saplings of the fruit varieties. Therefore, the project is expected to have positive impacts on livelihood, nutrition and gender issues of the study area.

Keywords: Propagation, Orchard management, Saline tolerant

Title: Collection, conservation, characterization and evaluation of underutilized fruit tree germplasm for coastal and hilly areas of Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Rahim, M. M. Anwar Hossain and A. K. M. Ashraful AlamDepartment of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

27

Bangladesh Agricultural University Germplasm Centre (BAU-GPC) is implementing a three years project funded by BAS-USDA since January 2011 to find out suitable underutilized fruit tree varieties of coastal and hilly areas of Bangladesh and conserve germplasms at BAU-GPC. A survey study has been conducted at the coastal and hilly areas through prescribed questionnaire. A large number of germplasm have been collected from both the areas. The collected germplasm are Kawphal, Monkey jack, River ebony, Velvet apple, Sapota, Pummelo, Wood apple, Custard apple, Golden apple, Bullock’s heart, Wax jambu, Mango, Guava, Elephant apple, Star gooseberry, Burmese grape, Carambola, Jamun, Pomegranate, Karanda, Bael, Indian olive, Roktogota, Pyalagota, Chinaduly, Lotkon, Coagula, Budumchua etc. All these germplasm were planted at the BAS-USDA plot in BAU-GPC. Research students are conducting their research on “Mophological study of collected fruit tree germplasm, postharvest behavior of selected fruit tree germplasm, molecular characterization and standardization of propagation techniques of underutilized and endangered fruit tree germplasm of coastal and hilly regions”. Results showed that maximum success was found in air layering (85-95%) on guava, wax Jambu, golapjam and stargooseberry followed by cleft grafting (80-90%) on mango, pummelo, sapota, woodapple, lotkon, peyalgota and custard apple where as success of stem cutting and root cutting were less (0-62%). Results on studies of postharvest behavior of fruits like lotkon, cowa, aonla, waxjambo, dewa, roktogota, sapota etc. showed that shelf life of fruits in transparent polybag at 10ºC in incubator wax maximum.

Keywords: Germplasms, Propagation, Molecular characterization

Title: Effects of irrigation interval and type of mulch on yield, quality and shelf life of mango

Author: M. F. Mondal Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The experiment was conducted at the Regional Horticultural Research Station (RHRS), Chapai Nawabganj during the period from July 2011 to June 2012 to find out the appropriate irrigation interval and type of mulch for enhancing yield, quality and shelf life of mango cv. Mallika. The two-factor experiment was laid out in the Randomized Complete Block Design with three replications. The factors of the experiment were (i) Irrigation interval and (ii) Type of mulch. Irrigation started in 1st week of March and ended in 4th week of May. Four irrigation intervals which were: 2 weeks interval after full bloom, 3 weeks interval after full bloom , 4 weeks interval after full bloom and Control (no irrigation) and four mulch materials such as, Black polythene, Rice straw, Water hyacinth and Control (no mulch) were used in the experiment. The results of the experiment revealed that all the parameters of yield and quality were influenced significantly due to irrigation interval and type of mulches used. It was observed that irrigation at an interval of two weeks in combination with water hyacinth mulch were conducive to higher yield and quality as well as longer shelf life of mango cv. Mallika.

28


Keywords: Mango, Irrigation interval

Title: Food security in Bangladesh: Evaluation of nutritional status and processing techniques to reduce toxicity of Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) accessions for use as a potential human and animal food

Author: A. K. M. A. Prodhan, M. S. A. Fakir, M. G. Mostafa and H. Seal1 Department of Crop Botany, 1Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh. Email: [email protected]


Abstract

Cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz) roots (tubers) are used as staple food in Africa, Caribbean and Asia. Starch extracted from tubers is widely utilized in garment, paper, food, feed and pharmaceutical industries. Cassava root and shoot contain cyanogens that releases hydrogen cyanide (HCN) during postharvest processing viz., chopping, drying and boiling. Diversified eleven cassava accessions (Coc-A1, Kha-A2, Cow-A3, Sag-A4, Meg-A5, Var-A6, Org-A7, Syl-A8, Ind-A9, Mala-A10 and Viet-A11) collected from home and abroad were screened based on morphological (data not shown), growth, yield, HCN and proximate composition. Distinct characters of canopy, tuber and protein contents appeared for different accession(s). Two accessions, one high tuber and starch yield (Coc-A1) and other low yielder (Kha-A2) were selected for detail study for HCN removal. Generally, leaf contained much greater HCN and protein than tuber. HCN content of leaf and tuber of all the accessions was above the lethal dose for human being (≥50 mg HCN/ average body wt) and processing techniques were employed for HCN removal. Slicing tuber followed by boiling (1000C) for 30 minutes removed 99% HCN. Further, drying tuber (500C) for 18 hrs also removed 99% HCN. Results concluded that cassava accessions were identified by growth, nutritional composition and yield, and post harvest processing like boiling and drying removed most of the HCN.

Keywords: Food security, Cassava, Staple food

Title: Polyhouse technology for on-season and off-season production of high value crops in Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Halim Khan Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

29



Field experiments in a 15×4.5m prefabricated bamboo structure covered with polythene sheets (polyhouse) were conducted on bitter gourd (Momordica charantia) and snake gourd (Trichosanthes cucumerina var. anguina) along with an equal size open field at the Field Laboratory of the Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh during the periods from November 2011 to June 2012 to investigate their growth performances and yields. The experiment comprised of 2m x 2m plots with standard spacing and four replications. Microclimatic data indicated that both air and soil temperatures, as measured at different stages of plant growth, were always 2-5 ºC higher inside polyhouse compared to the open field. While 20-30% PAR reduction and 10-15% more water retention were recorded during the rainless period inside the polyhouse compared to the open field. Both bitter gourd and snake gourd grown under polyhouse condition had the superiority as assessed in terms of vine length, number of vines, number of leaves, etc. over the plants grown in the open. The flowering, fruit setting and fruit maturity were advanced by about 10-15 days in polyhouse compared to their corresponding occurrences in the open field. Plants grown in polyhouse had also reproductive superiority in terms of flowers, fruits, fruit length, fruit diameter, fruit weight and yield ha-1 over the open field condition. The yield of bitter gourd was > 50 tons ha -1 and that of snake gourd was 55 tons ha-1 under polyhouse condition; while those under open condition were 20 tons ha-1 and 25 tons ha-1 respectively i.e. 2-fold yield improvement over the open field conditions that are inconformity of the previous experimental results on the same crops.

Keywords: Technology, Microclimatic, Crop

Title: Genetic improvement of teasle gourd through biotechnological approaches

Author: M. A. KarimDepartment of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected] Bangladesh


Abstract

Teasle gourd (Momordica dioeca Roxb.) known as kakrol belongs to Cucurbitaceaea family is a summer vegetable grown in Bangladesh. Summer vegetables are scanty. Among the summer vegetables, teasle gourd is one of the important source of nutrients. It is rich in protein, carotene, carbohydrate, Vitamin (Vit-C) and minerals. Germination of seeds is very difficult or impossible for its hard seed coat. As a dioecious plant, the propagation entirely depends on underground tuberous roots. Maintenance of tuberous roots in the field or in storage is difficult. Fruit quality of kakrol deteriorates due to presence of large number of hard seeds. Micro-propagation and use of mutagens may help to overcome these problems to a great extent by reducing seeds with new variants. Seedless or less seeded teasle gourd may be obtained by applying mutagens during biotechnological studies. So, it is necessary to develop an efficient in vitro plant regeneration protocol in tissue culture for achieving less seeded or seedless teasle gourd fruits. In 2009-2010, a regeneration protocol of teasle gourd was developed via callus formation using cotyledon explant culturing on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg L-1 BA & 0.3 mg L-1 IBA. Study in 2011-2012 comprised two aspects: (a) effect of gamma ray (physical mutagen) on teasle gourd-

30

Different doses of gamma radiations were used in the calli. The radiated calli from cotyledon explants had higher number of shoots compared to control. 5 gray treatment produced higher number of shoots, root length, number of branches plant-1, number of fruits plant-1, fruit yield plant-1 whereas treatment with higher doses of radiation (13 and 15 gray) drastically reduced growth & yield. (b) Comparative study on morphological characters of normal and regenerated plants was made. The normal and gamma radiated teasle gourd plants were evaluated. The lower dose (5 gray) induced high frequency of multiple shoots, higher number of branches plant -1 , shortening of internodes produced medium fruits (67.36 g) having reduced number of seeds fruit -

1 (21.20) compared to normal (34) with vigorous plant growth (224.4 cm). Increased production of less seeded fruits of teasle gourd was obtained which may overcome the scarcity of green vegetables during summer.

Keywords: Teasle gourd, Germination, Biotechnology

Title: Indicator of physiological maturity of edible green seed for use as vegetable in Dipogon Lignosus

Author: M. S. A. Fakir Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agric. University, Mymensingh, Bangladesh Email: [email protected]


Abstract

Lignosus bean is valued for green seeds and young twigs as vegetable, dry split seeds as pulse soup and other plant parts as organic matter. A study was carried out to determine indexes of physiological maturity (PM), proper harvest time for vegetable seeds and to assesses quality of seeds of two genotypes (G1, G2,) of Lignosus bean (Dipogon lignosus (L.) Verdc.). Flowers were tagged at different times so that data on 33, 40, 47 and 54 days after opening of flowers (DAF) were obtained. The four ages of pods/seeds (33, 40, 47 and 54 DAF) were designated as pre-physiological mature (prePM), physiological mature (PM), post-PM and harvest maturity (HM), respectively. At each stage, 50 pods (at least 10 from each of 4 replications) were randomly picked up carefully from the plant. The effects of these four seed maturity stages on pod and seed morphology, moisture content, seed germination and total soluble solids (TSS) and proximate composition of seed were investigated. Eight treatments (2 genotypes and 4 harvest stages) were analysed in complete block design with five replications. Proximate (crude protein, crude fat, crude fibre, nitrogen free extract and ash were determined. Genetic variation for pod and seed sizes existed. Size of pod (6.71 cm long and 1.4 cm wide) and seed (1.71cm long and 1.21cm wide) was larger in G2 than G1 (6.41 cm and 1.71cm long for pod and seed; 1.40 cm and 1.21cm wide for pod and seed, respectively). Average fresh and dry weights of individual pod (4.56 and 1.51 g, respectively) and seed (2.80 g pod-1, 1.12 g pod-1, respectively) were also greater in G2. Of the four seed harvest stages, larger pod and seed size with increased fresh and dry weights of pods and seeds were observed at PM. Germination percentage were also greater (above 80%) at PM. At PM, TSS was greater in G2 (22.23%) than G1 (20.72%). Crude protein was greater in G2 genotype (30.27%) than G1 one (21.70%) at PM stage. In combined effect at

31

PM stage, size, fresh and dry weights of pods and seeds were significantly greater in G 2 than G1. Between PM and HM, reduction of moisture content in seed was greater in G2 (60.02%) than G1

(42.79%) genotype. It may be concluded that pods can be identified at PM by physical, physiological and growth indicators and further pods may be harvested at PM due to larger size, increased weight and good TSS of seeds for vegetable purpose in the two genotypes of Lignosus bean.

Keywords: Seed, Physiological maturity, effect

Title: Food Security in Bangladesh – Effect of low temperature on pollination biology and grain yield of rice

Author: A.K.M. Golam Sarwar and S.A. SohelDepartment of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

An experiment was conducted to assess and compare the effect of low temperature on pollination biological features e.g., pollen characters – number, size, shape, deformation & viability, spikelet sterility, etc. and grain yield of different rice cultivars. Six cultivars, two from each of traditional (Local), modern and hybrid namely Lucky dhan, Mochi dhan, BR14, BRRI dhan29, BRRI hybrid dhan2 and SL-8H, respectively, of boro rice were used as experimental material. To manipulate the temperature ingredients, the transplanting operations were done four times starting from 23 November, 2011 and continued up to 7 January 2012 at 15 days interval. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. Healthy rice seedlings of 30 days old were transplanted at the spacing of 15cm X 25cm (plant-plant X row-row). The standard rice cultivation procedure was followed. The low temperature had no effect on the size of pollen grains, however, if had adverse effect on the viability of pollen grains. The percentage of non-viable or sterile pollen varied from 20% to 39% when the rice seedlings were transplanted at 23 November, 2011. This number was gradually reduced and was below 10% when the transplanting date was 23 December, 2011 or later. The number of sterile spikelet was also higher (up to 17%) in plants developed from early transplanted seedlings (at 23 November, 2011) compared to that of later transplanted seedlings (below 4%). There were significant variations among the rice cultivars in both non-viable pollen and spikelet sterility percentage. At low temperature, the traditional cultivars performed better in respect of non-viable pollen and spikelet sterility percentage, but produced lower grain yield compared to those of Hybrids. Among the cultivars, SL-8H produced the highest grain yield (8.3 t/ha) when it was transplanted at 23 December, 2011.

Keywords: Effect, Food security, Cultivation, Rice

Title: In vitro selection of somaclonal variants for salinity and drought tolerant high yielding rice

32


Author: M. Obaidul Islam Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail [email protected]


Abstract

The experiment was conducted from July 2011 to June 2012 in the Tissue Culture Laboratory of the Department of Crop Botany, BAU to investigate callus induction and callus derived stress tolerant somaclone selection in indica rice. Ten varieties namely, BR5, BR11, BRRI dhan28, BRRI dhan29, BRRI dhan33, BRRI dhan41, BRRI dhan47, BRRI dhan58, BRRI dhan49 and BINA dhan8 were used for callus induction. Three different media namely MS, N6 and LS medium were tested to select the best medium. Many plant growth regulators (PGR) and their combination were used to get best callus induction and plantlet regeneration. The experiment was laid out following a Completely Randomized Design where each treatment was replicated five times. The all culture basal media (BM) were supplemented with 30 gL -1 sucrose, 0.3 gL-1

casamina, solidified with 7 gL-1 agar and pH adjusted to 5.8 prior to autoclave at 121°C with 1.16 kgcm-2 pressure for 20 minutes. The culture was incubated in growth room at 29±1°C under 16 hr. photoperiod of 100 µmolm-2s-1 provided by fluorescent tubes. Among varieties, BINA dhan 8 produced the highest percentage (69.7%) of callus induction with 4 mgL -1 2,4-D. For callus induction 4 mgL-1 2,4-D was the best among treatments. The calli were yellowish, glossy and healthy. For callus induction N6 medium was the best (57.00%) followed by MS (46.08%) and LS (43.88%) medium, respectively. Interaction effects of variety and medium on callus was the highest (72.60%) in BINA dhan 8 on N6 medium. The highest per cent callus derived plantlet regeneration was 76.67% obtained with 2.0 mgL-1 NAA and 2.0 mgL-1 Kn, but it was 70.00% in medium supplemented with 2.0 mgL-1 NAA and 1.0 mgL-1 BA. Similarly 2.0 mgL-1 NAA and 2.0 mgL-1 Kn was the best for the plantlets number per explant-1 (12.33), average plantlet height (10.18 cm), average root length (7.33 mm) and number of root plantlet -1 (5.90) compared to those in medium supplemented with NAA and BA. Callus derived plantlet regeneration reduced to 27.0 % and 16.0%at 1.0% NaCl and 4 gL-1 PEG supplemented BM. Morphologically plantlets were deformed and weak compared to control plants.

Keywords: Tissue culture, Morphological, Tolerant

Title: Production of somaclone In vitro for drought stress tolerant plantlet selection in potato

Author: M. Obaidul IslamDepartment of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail [email protected]


Abstract

33



An experiment was carried out in plant tissue culture laboratory of the Department of Crop Botany, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh to assess the callus induction ability, plantlet regeneration from callus and production of drought stress tolerant somaclones in potato. Potato cv. Diamont and Asterix tubers were germinated on sand and shoot buds were explanted on MS medium with different PGRs to regenerate plantlets. Subsequently leaf, node and internodes of in vitro grown plantlets were used as explants. The cultures were maintained in a growth room at 25±20C under light intensity of 35 µmm-2s-1 illuminated with florescent tubes. As explants, internodes were the best for callus induction. Because hundred percent internodes explants induced callus where the lowest was for leaf explants. Among the plant growth regulators combination of 2,4-D and NAA at 2.0 mgL-1 each was the best for callus induction and proliferation of induced callus. Combine effect of 2,4-D and NAA were always better than single effect of any one. BA affected plantlet regeneration from callus and cent percent explants regenerated plantlets at 5.0 mgL-1 of BA. The highest number of shoot (3.0), length of shoot (8.0 cm), number of root (20) and length of root (3.0 cm) were found at 5.0 mgL -1 BA supplemented medium over other treatments. Among the treatments of Kn and IAA, the highest percent (100) explants regenerated plantlets at 2.0 mgL-1 each and the lowest 50% was observed at 3.0 mgL-1

each. The highest number of shoot per explants, length of shoot, number and length of root were obtained with Kn + IAA at 2.0 mgL-1 each supplemented BM. Thus, internodes explants on MS medium supplemented with 2,4-D and NAA at 2.0 mg L-1 each was the best for callus induction and BA 5.0 mg L-1 or Kn + IAA at 2.0 mg L-1 each supplemented BM was suitable for callus derived plantlet production in potato. Callus derived plantlets were cultured in PEG supplemented MS medium to produce drought stress tolerant somaclones.

Keywords: Potato, Tissue culture, Production

Title: Formulation of biopesticides in controlling phomopsis fruit rot, foot/collar rot, fruit and shoot borer of eggplant

Author: M. B. Meah and M. D. Hossain IPM Lab, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh,Email: [email protected]


Abstract

IPM Lab Biopesticide was applied at five rates- 0, 10, 15, 20 and 25 g/m2 mixed up with the soil during final land preparation and then one month after transplanting. At the flowering and fruiting stages, observations were made on the crop growth and disease incidence. Growth parameters such as plant height, leaf number, number of primary and secondary branches, number of flowers and fruits, weight of single fruit, and fruit yield were recorded. Both soil-borne and foliar diseases were observed. Application of IPM Lab Biopesticide prepared out of Trichoderma had remarkable positive effect on plant growth and disease control and crop yield. The yield and yield contributing characters were greatly influenced by different treatments. The highest dose 25g/m2 used in the experiment supported significantly better growth, higher yield and lower disease incidence. The IPM Lab Biopesticide showed its effectivity on yield and yield

34

contributing characters of Tomato, Chili and Indian Spinach and reduced disease incidences. Therefore, IPM Lab Biopesticide can be used as a sustainable agricultural input.

Keywords: Biopesticide, Eggplant, Growth

Title: Influence of physiological and environmental factors on growth and sporulation of antagonistic strains of Trichoderma spp.

Author: M. D. HossainDepartment of Plant Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Thirty isolates of Trichoderma harzianum isolated from different locations of Bangladesh were studied for morphological characters. Mycelial growth was measured on Malt Extract Agar (MEA) and Potato Dextrose Agar media. The mycelial growth varied from 8.21 cm to 8.90 cm. Maximum mycelial growth was obtained by 12 isolates. In contrast the lowest mycelial growth was observed in the isolate T2. Collected isolates were categorised into groups depending on their morphological features like colony colour, mycelial growth and pattern, sporulation capacity. Based on colony colour, isolates were grouped into five such as dark green, green, light green, yellowish green and whitish green. Maximum isolates were green and light green. On the basis of growth habit and colony consistency the isolates were categorized into three groups, in which most species had fast growth and were compact in appearance. Sporulation capacity of the isolates was significantly different in different isolates. The maximum numbers of spores were produced by the isolates of dark green and yellowish green colour, whereas lowest spore density was found in the isolates of green, light green and whitish green colour. The result indicating their morphological variations specially differences in sporulation capacity can widen up the chance to select the most virulent isolate for effective utilization as biopesticide. Among the 30 isolates of Trichoderma harzianum, three isolates have found potential antifungal activity those can effectively inhibit the growth of at least 11 plant pathogenic fungi.

Keywords: Environmental factor, MEA, Plant pathogenic fungi

Title: Detection of the causal agent of leaf mosaic of jute

Author: M. AshrafuzzamanDepartment of Plant Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail : [email protected]


Abstract

35



Several experiments were conducted in the glass house, net house and in the laboratory to check the transmission pathways and to identify the causal agent of leaf mosaic of jute. Seed to plant transmission was studied in aluminium tray and in cassette holders. Again seed to plant to seed transmission study was conducted in successive two seasons. In the second year seeds collected from the infected plants only were sown. In graft transmission study five grafting techniques (viz. peg, veneer, gooti, root grafting and T-budding) were employed. Vector transmission was studied under insect proof cage. Again, infected leaves were subjected to study under light microscope to observe the inclusion body. In molecular detection polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed using begomovirus specific primes in nucleic acid preparation from mosaic infected jute leaf to confirm the causal agent. It was observed that the cultivar D-154 showed the highest percentage of seed to plant transmission of the causal agent in both aluminium tray and cassette holders. In seed to plant to seed transmission it was observed that seeds obtained from the infected plants gave higher percentage of infected plants in the succeeding year than those obtained from healthy ones. In the graft transmission study it was noted that the causal agent was readily transmitted through all grafting techniques attempted. Graft transmission was more successful when hosts of same cultivar were used as both scion and stock. In the vector transmission study results obtained indicated that the causal agent was transmitted persistently by whitefly (Bemisia tabaci). The results showed that at least 3 and 1 whiteflies were required to transmit the causal agent when both AFP and IFP were 24hr and 48hr respectively. The minimum AFP and IFP were 30 minutes and 15 minutes respectively. The persistence of causal agent inside the vector was at best 10 days. Under light microscope large, blue-violet, prominent nuclear inclusion bodies were readily detected from infected leaf tissues which are indicative of geminivirus infection. This is probably the first study of this kind in mosaic infected jute leaf. In molecular detection the primers amplified 1.2 kb of the DNA fragment. The results obtained in present study conclude that the causal agent of leaf mosaic of jute is transmitted through seed, grafts and vector whitefly and microscopic and molecular study confirm that begomoviruses are responsible for the leaf mosaic in jute.

Keywords: PCR, Detection, Transmission

Title: Biological control of leaf spot of groundnut

Author: I. Hossain and M. M. HasanDepartment of Plant Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The leaf spot or Tikka disease (Cercospora arachidicola and Cercosporidium personatum) of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) is the predominant, devastating, common constraints and economically important foliar fungal disease and major yield reducing factor of groundnut, not only in Bangladesh, but also all over the world. The leaf spot disease epidemics are affected by weather patterns such as hot and wet conditions like Bangladesh. The groundnut variety Dhaka-1 is highly susceptible to leaf spot disease in Bangladesh. The yield loss was calculated in the

36

groundnut variety Dhaka-1 due to early and late leaf spot (Tikka) by over 30-48% in Bangladesh. The efficacy of three botanicals viz. neem leaf (Azadirachta indica), debdaru leaf (Polyalthia longifolia), and datura leaf (Datura metel), BAU-Biofungicide along with a check (Bavistin) and untreated control were evaluated as foliar spray in the pots and field in the present research work. Among the treatments, BAU-Biofungicide, extracts of neem leaf, datura leaf and debdaru leaf showed excellent performance in controlling leaf spot and increasing pod yield by 53.61, 51.91, 40.85 and 38.72%, respectively as compared to control in the field. In case of seedling germination, BAU-Biofungicide as seed treatment+ spray gave 97.77% germination followed by extracts of neem leaf (88.14%), datura leaf (93.33%) and debdaru leaf (95.55%). BAU-Biofungicide as seed treatment+ spray produced higher length and weight of shoot and root and vigour index as compared to untreated control. Maximum vigour index was observed under BAU-Biofungicide spray (1583.88). BAU-Biofungicide as seed treatment+ spray gave higher plant height, number of leaves and minimum number of infected leaves in the pots and field as compared to control. Minimum percentages of leaf area diseased were obtained with BAU-Biofungicide as seed treatment + spray followed by Bavistin in the field. BAU-Biofungicide, extracts of neem leaf, datura leaf and debdaru leaf showed promising performance in number and weight of pods and pod yield in the pots and field. Maximum weight of pods/plant and weight of mature pods/plant was achieved with BAU-Biofungicide as seed treatment + sprays (20.05 g and 18.55 g) followed by extract of neem leaf spray (19.83 g and 18.22 g). The highest net profit was recorded with the use of BAU–Biofungicide as seed treatment + foliar spray by Tk. 176768.00/ha followed by extracts of neem leaf Tk. 172275.00/ha, BAU-Biofungicide spray Tk. 168818.00/ha, while the lowest Tk. 96443.00/ha in untreated control. Maximum Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) 1: 2.77 was found in BAU–Biofungicide seed treatment + spray followed by BAU–Biofungicide seed treatment (1: 2.65), BAU–Biofungicide spray (1: 2.64) and extracts of neem leaf (1:2.62).

Keywords: Groundnut, Tikka disease, Biofungicide

Title: Leaf blight of litchi and mango and their management with molecular characterization of its pathogen

Author: I. Hossain, M. D. Hossain and M. A. H. KhanDepartment of Plant Pathology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a juicy fruit that contains 77.83% water, 6.74-20.60% sugar, 0.08-.09% protein, 0.03% fat, mineral specially calcium, phosphorus and iron 0.7% and vitamin C. It has even high level of Beta-carotene, and helps to prevent blood clots, severe cell damage and reduces stroke in heart attack. It is a good source of carbohydrates and fibers which are quite essential for the body. It contains unsaturated fatty acids which help in the absorption of beta carotene, and many other fat soluble vitamins. Litchi is a important fruit crop in Bangladesh due to its calorific and nutritive values. Mango (Mangifera indica L.) is one of the most important,

37

popular and delicious fruits grown throughout the tropics and sub-tropics of the world including Bangladesh. Bacterial leaf blight diseased leaves of litchi and mango were collected from different locations viz. Rajshahi, Mymensingh ,Dinajpur, Rangpur and Khagrachori. The leaf blight causal bacteria were isolated and identified by morphological tests and chemical methods viz. KOH test, Kovac’s test, Levan test, Arginine test, Catalase test and Sugar utilization test. The isolated bacteria were identified as Pseudomonas syringae pv. Syringae. Bacterial isolates were tested for their pathogenicity to 5 different hosts viz. mango, litchi, jackfruit, guava and jujube. The pathogenecity of the isolates varied from one host to another host as well as one location to another location. The isolates of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae resulted highest % LAD in jackfruit followed by jujube and the lowest in mango. All the isolates of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae were found pathogenic to mango, litchi, jackfruit, jujube and guava. The disease appeared a great threat for production of quality and healthy litchi and mango saplings in order to get higher fruit production. The sensitivity of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae to different antibiotics (viz. Gentamicin, Doxycycline, Nitrofurantoin, Erythromycin, Kanamycin, Ampicillin, Amoxicilin, Chloramphenicol and Novobiocin) were studied and found sensitive to Gentamicin, Kanamycin, Erythromycin and Chloramphenicol. The genetic variations of isolates of Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae were analyzed. The percentage of polymorphic loci was 83.33%. Comparatively the highest genetic distance (1.7918) was observed in Isolates MM3 Vs RM3 and Isolates MM1 Vs KM3, Isolates DM1 vs KM1 whereas, the lowest genetic distance (0.0000) was estimated in Isolates MM1 Vs RM3, Isolates KM3 Vs DM1 as well as KM1. UPGMA dendrogram revealed that isolates of Khagrasori (KM1, KM2 and KM3) form same cluster along with another isolate DM1 of Dinajpur. On the other hand isolates of Khagrasori resulted high disease severity than the collected osolates of other locations.

Keywords: Leaf blight, Molecular characterization, Pathogen

Title: Intensification of rice based cropping system incorporating short duration oilseed mustard varieties

Author: L. HassanDepartment of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

An attempt was taken to change the cropping pattern Aman-Fallow-Boro into Aman-Mustard-Boro by growing short duration but high yielding mustard varieties with a view to increasing cropping intensity and edible oil production of the country as well as net income of the farmers. With this view point three Upazillas of Mymensingh district viz., Sadar, Muktagacha and Haluaghat and three Upazillas namely Ishwardi of Pabna, Lalpur of Natore and Bagha of Rajshahi districts were chosen. During the project activity, 400 farmers were selected to grow mustard. Among the farmers, 84.25% followed rice based cropping pattern. The farmers who grew Aman and Boro rice the average cost of cultivation were Tk. 27937 and 35770 (total Tk.63707) per hectare and gross income were Tk. 51445 and 63000 (total Tk. 114445) per

38


hectare. Thus net return achieved from the rice-fallow- rice pattern were Tk. 50738 per hectare. Five mustard varieties namely BARI sarisha 14 and 15, BINA sarisha 4 and 7, and Unnata Tori-7 were used. For 33 decimal land, one Kg seeds was supplied to each farmer. The farmers were provided with fertilizers like Urea, TSP, MOP, Gypsum, Zinc Sulphate and Boron and cost of insecticide and fungicide were also provided at both BAU and BCSKS component. Average cost of mustard cultivation were estimated as Tk. 25883/ha at BAU part and Tk. 29052/ha at BCSKS part. Thus gross income generated from growing mustard at BAU component was Tk. 89673/ ha and it was Tk. 85684/ha at BCSKS component. Thus considering BAU and BCSKS together average net return from mustard were Tk. 60336 per hectare. Therefore the farmers get an additional income of Tk. 60336 per hectare through cultivation of three crops (Aman, mustard and Boro) instead of two (Aman and Boro).

Keywords: Cropping system, Rice, Mustard

Title: Development of short duration high yielding rice varieties



Abstract

In Bangladesh, most of the farmers are growing Aus, T. aman and Boro rice annually in many regions of Bangladesh. But the existing field problem of rice cultivation in Bangladesh is lacking in short duration high yielding rice varieties for all seasons. The area of Aus cultivation decreased by about 50% from the year 1990 to 2006 due to lacking in short duration modern varieties. Farmers are reluctant to grow the poor yielding Aus varieties. To address this problem the present study will help to develop high yielding varieties of acceptable grain quality, preferably short growth duration to increase land productivity to 3 crops in a year. The main goal of this research is to develop short duration, stable and high yielding rice varieties for Aus, Aman and Boro seasons to fit into the existing cropping patterns. Breeding line SL – 9 and ADT(R)47 selected as donor (male) parent and BRRI Dhan 52, BRRI Dhan 53, BRRI Dhan 57 as recipient (female) parent for Aman season and Crosses were made among the selected parents. For Boro season, crosses were made in BRRI Dhan 28 X IR 77734-93-2-3-2, BRRI Dhan 29 X ADT(R) 47 and BRRI dhan 55 X IR 77734-93-2-3-2. Crosses will be done in BRRI Dhan 48 X Parija, BRRI dhan 55 X Parija, BRRI Dhan 48 X NERICA 2, BRRI dhan 55 X NERICA 2, BRRI Dhan 48 X NERICA 4, BRRI dhan 55 X NERICA 4 to obtain short duration high yielding Aus rice. The most promising ones will be selected from the hybridized generations following the modified pedigree method.

Keywords: Short duration, Rice, HYV

Title: In vitro regeneration, mutation and improvement of rice through Anther Culture

Author: L. Hassan

39

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The experiment was conducted to observe the regeneration potential and to establish a suitable in vitro plantlet regeneration protocol from mature seed derived embryogenic calli of four indica rice varieties viz BRRI dhan-29, BRRI dhan-28, BRRI dhan-47 & BINA dhan-7 after partial desiccation treatment. Different concentrations & combinations of growth regulators were used to observe the callus induction ability using mature embryo as explants. The highest (86%) callus induction frequency was in BRRI dhan-47 which required 14.90 days and the lowest (56.5%) in BINA dhan-7 which required minimum days (14.65). Among the culture media the performance of T4 (MS +500 mgl-1 L- Proline + 2.0 mgl-12, 4-D + 0.8 mgl-1 BAP) was better than any other media for callus induction frequency (%), rapid callusing, size of the callus (mm), texture of callus & color of callus. BRRI dhan-29 produced more number of shoots (4.67) per callus while BINA dhan-7 showed minimum number of shoots (2.87) per callus. The highest number of roots/ plant (3.66) was observed in BRRI dhan-29 & the lowest (3.11) in BINA dhan-7. Among the three treatments T3 (MS + 0.6 mgl-1IBA) showed highest 86.67% of root. The establishment rate of the plantlet in the pot was the highest (67.67%) in BRRI dhan-29 but the lowest establishment rate (51.22%) showed in BINA dhan-7. Panicles of an indica rice BRRI dhan-29 were subjected to radiation with 60Co gamma rays at 0 (control), 5, 10, 15 and 20 Gy respectively, and then its anthers were cultured. There were slight differences among the treatments in peak emerging time of callus initiation, from 38 to 44 days after inoculation (DAI) and the frequency of callus initiation 2.3-3.5%. About two thirds calli were induced before 44 DAI and calli derived beyond 60 DAI lost the regeneration ability. Green plant regeneration frequency was significantly stimulated from two-to three-fold by irradiation of the 60Co gamma rays compared with the control, and the maximum was 22.81% (15 Gy). So anther culture technique offers great opportunities for accelerating breeding progress and generating as well as directing variation to increase genetic diversity useful for rice improvement.

Keywords: Regeneration, Anther culture, Rice

Title: Development of novel rice varieties by the application of molecular breeding to address climate change issues and food security in Bangladesh



Abstract

40

Three F2 rice breeding populations were screened to evaluate the use of molecular markers to salinity tolerance at seedling stage with electrical conductivity (EC) of 12 dSm-1. Twenty Simple Sequence Repeat (SSR) and two Expressed Sequence Tag (EST) markers from 49.6 to 87.1 cM position of chromosome 1 segment were used. Among them only 7 markers found polymorphic among the two parents for population 1, four markers for population 2 and five for population 3. From single marker analysis it was observed in population 1, RM8094 was found to be strongly associated with salinity tolerance (P<0.001) while other four markers RM1287, RM3412, RM493 and CP03970 significant at P<0.05. All of the markers were found in one linkage group flanking the SalTol region on chromosome 1 in F3 population. RM8094 was found to be strongly associated with salinity tolerance with significant (P<0.0001) using single marker analysis. A total of 115 genotypes were used for allelic diversity study of microsatellite markers linked to a major SalTol QTL in chromosome 1 segment. Among the seven markers, the highest number of allele (15) was found in RM8094 followed by RM1287, RM3412 and RM493 (10), RM140 (8), CP03970 (5) and CP6224 (3) produced the lowest number of alleles. The polymorphic information content (PIC) values for seven markers from 115 genotypes was found from 0.54 to 0.89. The highest PIC value (0.89) was also found in RM8094 locus followed by RM493 and RM3412 (0.81), RM1287 and RM140 (0.77). So RM8094 would be used as the most suitable marker for marker assisted selection breeding program for SalTol QTL in chromosome 1 from the cross of widely diverse genotypes followed by RM3412 and RM493.

Keywords: Salinity tolerance, Rice, Climate change, Food security

Title: Performance of Breeding lines and Breeder seed multiplication of rice



Abstract

Stress tolerant varieties are more important for Bangladesh condition such as salt tolerant varieties for different coastal areas of Bangladesh and drought tolerance varieties for dry regions of Bangladesh. Also submerge tolerant varieties for different low lying areas of Bangladesh such as for hoar areas. Like other crops differences in productivity in rice varieties also depends mainly on its genetic potentiality, quality of seeds, management practices followed and climatic conditions during the growing season. Since quality seed is free from diseases and has better seed health, certainly will have produce healthy seedlings with no initial disease inoculums. Quality seed not only increase production per unit area, but also help to produce uniform crop without any admixture, having good milling and cooking quality important for getting higher market price.

Keywords: Stress tolerant rice, Breeder seed, Productivity

41

Title: Somaclonal variation and molecular characterization for development strawberry in Bangladesh

Author: U. K. NathDepartment of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The experiment was conducted to observe the regeneration potential and to establish a suitable in vitro plantlet regeneration protocol from the shoot tip and nodal segments as explants of strawberry genotypes after partial desiccation treatment. Another objective was to fingerprint the tissue culture derived plantslets for identifying the somaclonal variants using RAPD markers. Different concentrations & combinations NAA (0, 0.5, 1.0, 2, 0 mg/L) and BAP (0, 1.0, 2.0, 4.0 mg/L) of growth regulators were used in MS medium to observe the callus induction ability and plantlet regeneration. The tissue culture regenerants were also characterized using RAPD molecular markers. Shoot tip and nodal segments were used as explant derived from four months old plants cultured in earthen pot at field condition. The cultures were incubated for 4 weeks in dark followed by for another 4 weeks under 16/18 hr light regime. Among hormonal combination, 1.0 mgL-1 BAP + 0.5 mg/L NAA showed the highest percentage (99.33%) of callus induction. To regenerate shoots, the calli derived from shoot tip and nodal segments were cultured on shoot induction media containing different combination and concentrations of BAP (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0 mg/L) and NAA (0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 mg/L). The highest percentage of shoot regeneration (93.33%) and number of shoots/explants (15.00) was observed in the MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/L BAP and 0.5 mg/L NAA. The highest (83%) rooting of shoots was observed with the combination of 1.5 mg/L BAP and 1.0 mg/L IBA. The effects of explants showed significant variation in growth and yield of strawberry. Explants significantly influenced all the parameters examined under field condition. The results of the experiment revealed that tissue culture derived plant enhance plant growth and resulted in higher brix content (10.61%), lower ascorbic acid content (27.24 mg/100g), early flowering (39.44 days), greater fruit weight (13.47 g), and higher fruit yield (283.75 g/plant) than those from runner cutting derived plants. Hundred and twenty tissue culture variants were finger printed using RAPD molecular markers and found completely different bands for each in different positions of genome compared with the genome of mother plants. It could be reported that the quality and yield parameters were changed due the identified position of polymorphic bands of tissue culture variants . Therefore, it could be concluded that tissue culture derived plantlets are the good source for commercial and quality strawberry production in Bangladesh due to arise distinct somaclonal variation.

Keywords: Strawberry, Regeneration, Tissue culture

Title: Low-cost Eco-friendly Virus free Maize cultivation for poverty alleviation and food security in Bangladesh through Molecular marker aided breeding

Author: M. A. Haque, S. Rahman, D. R. Mou, M. Chakraborty and A. Hoque

42

Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Maize dwarf mosaic disease is one of the most important viral diseases of maize (Zea mays L.) throughout the world. It is caused by a number of virus species in the family Potyviridae, genus Potyvirus, including Maize dwarf mosaic virus (MDMV), Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV), Johnsongrass mosaic virus (JGMV) and Sorghummosaic virus (SrMV). Resistance to another member of the family Potyviridae, Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV), is conferred by three alleles (Wsml, Wsm2, Wsm3) in the maize inbred line Pa405, and these or closely linked genes were previously shown to confer resistance to the potyviruses MDMV and SCMV (Stewart et al., 2012). In this study, we assessed whether Wsm alleles are linked to resistance to MDMV, SCMV, JGMV and SrMV. Twenty local inbred lines were tested for their response to MDMV, SCMV, JGMV and SrMV. Our results indicate that Khoivutta provides resistance to both MDMV and SrMV phenotypically. Molecular experiments are still continued.

Keywords: Food security, Maize, Virus , Diseases

Title: Improvement of Garlic through in vitro regeneration and chromosomal manipulation

Author: M. A. Haque, M. S. Sultana, T. Quddus, A. M. Mousumi, M. A. Parvin, M. A. Mahmud, S. R. Haider, M. Chakraborty, A. Hoque, S. Rahman, D. R. Mou, M. Begum1, S. M. Firoz2, A. B. Rahman and S. N. IslamDepartment of Genetics and Plant Breeding, 1Department of Crop Botany and 2Department of Horticulture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The study was carried out to establish an efficient protocol for regeneration of garlic via callus culture and direct regeneration from root tips and cytological observation of local garlic cultivars from root tip. Three garlic cultivars G-1, G-2 and G-3 were used in the present study. Healthy root tips and basal disc of the three garlic cultivars were included for tissue culture studies. Different concentrations and combinations of growth regulators were used in MS medium to observe the callus induction ability of different explants. Considering all the cultivars collectively the range of callus induction was observed as to 0 to 85%. The highest callusing was obtained at the concentration of 2, 4-D (2.0mgl–1) + BAP (2.0mgl–1) in MS medium in most of the cases. Calli were maintained to obtain sufficient number of regenerants and among the treatments MS + 2.0mgl–1 2, 4-D + 0.5mgl–1 BAP showed the highest callus proliferation in all the three cultivars. For the regeneration, MS medium supplemented with 1.0mgl–1 BAP and 2.0mgl–1 NAA was recorded best for the regenerating ability of the three cultivars. The

43

regenerated plantlets were then successfully transferred to the pot and after proper hardening the survival rate was satisfactory. For cytological study, chromosome preparation was made from the root tip by haematoxyline method. In all the three garlic cultivar 2n = 16 chromosomes was found. The range of the total length of the individual chromosome was 7.58 µ to 12.88 µ in G-1, 9.09 µ-14.77 in G-2 and 8.33 µ-14.77 µ in G-3. Chromosomes were classified as metacentric (m) for arm length ratio (L/S) 1.0– <1.7 and submetacentric (sm) 1.7–<3.0, and 3.0–(7.0 for subtelocentric (st), there being no chromosome with higher arm length ratio value. From the homologous 8 pair of chromosome, it was found that in G-1, 5 metacentric, 2 submetacentric and 1 subtelocentric chromosomes, while considering the total length and arm ratio in every cases. In G-2, 7 metacentric and 1 submetacentric chromosome and in G-3, 6 metacentric and 2 submetacentric chromosome was found. Though chromosome number of three garlic cultivars was the same but some variations in respect of length and arm ratio of the individual chromosome was found and it is also assumed that karyotypic differences as occurring in this three garlic cultivar could be due to structural changes of chromosomes.

Keywords: Garlic, Regeneration, , Chromosomes

Title: Factors responsible for yield gaps in rice and wheat at farmers’ field in four districts in Bangladesh

Author: M. A. Kashem Department of Agricultural Extension Education, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The gaps between potential and farmers’ yield is one of the great threats to obtain higher yield of different crops in Bangladesh. The main objective of the study was to identify the reasons/factors responsible for yield gaps in rice and wheat at farmers’ field. The present study was conducted in four intensive crop growing areas namely, Mymensingh and Sherpur districts for rice and Rangpur and Dinajpur districts for wheat. The empirical data for the study were collected in the year of 2010 and 2011. The findings reveal that in case of boro rice the overall mean yield gap of BRRI dhan28 was 12.41 percent and BRRI dhan29 was 18.31 percent where in aman rice the overall yield gap of BR 11 was the highest (20.89 percent) followed by BRRI dhan40 (17.89 percent), BRRI dhan41 (16.76 percent) and BINA dhan 7 (10.92 percent). The farmers’ practice gap in boro rice cultivation was the highest in case of gypsum (59 per cent) followed by MoP (45 percent) and TSP (33 percent) and in case of aman rice the highest gap was in gypsum (68 per cent) followed by TSP (59 per cent) and MoP 55 percent). In case of wheat cultivation the overall yield gap of Prodip was the highest (18.43 percent) followed by Sourav (18.15 percent) and Satabdi (17.45 percent). The practice gap in wheat was the highest in gypsum application (69 percent) followed by boron (67 percent), sowing time (40 percent) for wheat cultivation. The gaps in the application of MoP, TSP and irrigation were almost equal, 40 percent, 37 percent, and 36 percent respectively. The use of imbalanced dose of fertilizers, late sowing of crops, unavailability of good quality seeds, inadequate irrigation and pest management measures

44


appeared as the major factors causing yield gap in rice and wheat production.

Keywords: Factor, Crop, Yield gaps, Fertilizer

Title: Farmers’ knowledge and practice concerning organic vegetable cultivation: A study in a vegetable growing area under Kishoregonj district

Author: M. G. Farouque and M. A. SarkerDepartment of Agricultural extension Education, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymenisngh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Due to increasing consumer awareness of health and environmental issues, the demand for safe organic food has been growing significantly all over the world for the past several years. The purposes of the research were to: i) determine farmers’ knowledge and practice regarding organic vegetable cultivation; ii) ascertain farmers’ awareness concerning health and environmental aspects; and iii) investigate the constraints faced by the farmers in cultivating organic vegetable. The study was conducted in two villages namely, Shadullar Char and Borobag under Kishoregonj Sadar. The total number of household was 800 in those two villages. Among them 50 percent i.e. 400 households were randomly selected and the head of the each household was considered as the sample of the study from whom data were collected using interview schedule during 01 April to 05 May 2012. Findings indicate that about two-thirds (65%) of the farmers in the study area had low level of knowledge concerning organic vegetable cultivation while, a little less than three-fourth (73%) of the respondents had found with low level of practice followed in cultivating organic vegetables. Concerning soil health management aspects, the item namely, “use of cow dung” and “use of poultry excreta” were the top most items practiced by the farmers in their locality. “Use of ash” and “piercing”, on the other hand, were found as the highest ranked items regarding disease and pest management related aspects. However, about three-fourths of the respondents had low to medium level of awareness concerning health and environmental related aspects. A little less than three-fifths (58%) of the respondents faced medium problem followed by low problems in cultivating organic vegetables. The Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) may take initiative to increase the knowledge of vegetable growers concerning organic vegetable cultivation through arranging campaign, organizing training and conducting method and result demonstration.

Keywords: Organic vegetable, Consumer awareness, Environmental issue

Title: Impact of modern jujube cultivation on livelihoods of small and marginal farmers

Author: M. H. RahmanDepartment of Agricultural Extension Education, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

45


Abstract

The study was undertaken with the purpose of having an assessment of impact of modern jujube cultivation on livelihoods of small and marginal farmers of Bangladesh. The study was conducted in three districts of Bangladesh. A questionnaire was developed to collect data from the selected jujube farmers while necessary scales were developed to fulfil the objectives of the study. Data were collected from 200 jujube farmers of Pabna, Bogra and Natore districts during the months of September to November, 2012. The respondents were selected from a list of 399 farmers following random sampling method. The results indicated that 72 percent farmers reported significant impact of jujube cultivation on their livelihoods, while 28 percent reported slightly positive impact. The major perceived impact of jujube cultivation were increase in household level fruit consumption, fruit consumption of neighbours and relatives, increase in social capital in terms of social prestige and networking, psychological satisfaction, increase in household income from jujube cultivation, social dissemination of jujube cultivation by other farmers, increase in overall household food security, and adaptation to cope with shocks and vulnerability. The major sources of information for high yielding jujube cultivation were mainly locally available commercial farmers, Sub Assistant Agriculture Officers and local input dealers. The attitude study revealed that 72 percent farmers possessed favourable attitude towards jujube cultivation followed by 21 percent having unfavourable attitude and 7 percent neutral attitude. Farmers’ perceived impact of jujube cultivation was positively correlated with their farm size, area under jujube cultivation, income from jujube cultivation and extension media contact. On the other hand, no statistically significant association was established between farmers’ perceived impact of jujube cultivation on their livelihoods with their age, personal education, household size, training exposure and organizational participation. A number of policy implicating remarks have been concluded on the basis of findings of the study.

Keywords: Jujube cultivation, Impact, Livelihood

Title: An assessment of involvement of women in some selected NGOs and its impact on women empowerment

Author: M. Afzal Hossain Department of Agricultural Extension Education, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The objectives of the project study were: to identify the present condition of women involvement in the NGOs of the study area; to identify the factors influencing women empowerment regarding NGO involvement; to explore the relationships between the selected characteristics of the women beneficiaries and their empowerment; and to identify the constraints faced by the women in forming group during working with NGOs. The study was conducted in five upazilas

46

of Netrokona district, namely, Netrokona Sadar, Barhatta, Purbadhala, Atpara and kendua. Five villages from each upazila were selected purposively. Women involved with NGO from each of those villages constitute the population (2970) of the project study. Twenty present (20% = 574) of the women beneficiaries were interviewed during 1 March 2012 to 31 May through personal interview. An structured interview schedule was prepared to collect data from the women participants of NGOs including 13 question items. Focus group discussions FGDs were conducted to collect information from the various women groups. FGDs were also conducted for NGO personnel and women’s groups for exploring women’s involvement in NGOs and their constraints in forming group. The empowerment of the women beneficiaries was measured by computing an empowerment index based on their involvement with NGOs in some (12) selected activities. Pearson’s Product Moment Correlation Co-efficient test was used to explore the relationships between ten (10) selected characteristics of the women beneficiaries and their empowerment in selected activities. Among the ten selected characteristics of the women beneficiaries, eight variables were significantly correlated with their empowerment, namely; age, family labour, farm area, involvement with NGO, family income, training, credit and leadership role. The other two variables; education and family member had no significant relationship with women empowerment. Major constraints of women regarding involvement with NGOs were: lack of support from family head; non-cooperation from senior members of the family, lack of time due to family workload; social & religious restrictions; group programmes/events are time consuming; insufficient training for conducting group work; insufficient credit for performing group work; information about programme is not received timely; and having minimum knowledge on modern agricultural technologies.

Keywords: Condition, NGOs, Women empowerment

Title: Integrated use of vermicompost, biogas slurry and inorganic fertilizers for sustainable summer tomato production

Author: M. M. RahmanDepartment of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

A pot experiment was conducted to observe the performance of vermicompost and biogas slurry along with chemical fertilizers on the growth, yield and nutrient content of summer tomato. The experiment was laid out in a completely randomized design (CRD) with 3 replications and comprised of 16 treatments viz., T1 - Control (no compost and chemical fertilizers); T2 - 100% Recommended doses of NPKS fertilizers (CF); T3- Biogas slurry (BS1) @ 2.5 t ha-1; T4 - Biogas slurry (BS2) @ 5 t ha-1; T5 - Vermicompost (VC1) @ 2.5 t ha-1; T6 - Vermicompost (VC2) @ 5 t ha-1; T7 - BS1 + 50% CF; T8 - BS1 + 75% CF; T9 - BS2 + 50% CF; T10 - BS2 + 75% CF; T11 - VC1 + 50% CF; T12 – VC1 + 75% CF; T13 - VC2 + 50% CF; T14 - VC2 + 75% CF; T15 - BS1 + VC1 + 50% CF & T16- BS1 + VC1 + 75% CF. Application of vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 along with 50% chemical fertilizers showed the best performance for plan height, number of flower

47

clusters plant-1, number of flowers plant-1, number of fruits plant-1, fruit setting rate (%), fruit size and yield of summer tomato followed by the addition of vermicompost @ 5 t ha -1 along with 75% chemical fertilizers. Vermicompost and biogas slurry with different doses of chemical fertilizers had significant influence on yield and yield contributing characters of summer tomato as compared to control and application of chemical fertilizers only. The contents of N, P, K and S in summer tomato were significantly influenced by vermicompost and biogas slurry treated soils. Vermicompost @ 5 t ha-1 along with 50 and 75% chemical fertilizers provided high nutrient contents of tomato. Vermicompost and biogas slurry treated soils significantly influenced the nutrient status of post-harvest soil. Vermicompost treated soil conserved more organic C, N, P, K and S contents over biogas slurry treated soil. Results demonstrated that the increase of plant nutrition and soil fertility would help to maintain the long-term soil productivity for sustainable summer tomato cultivation.

Keywords: Performance, Vermicompost, Tomato, Production

Title: Isolation and characterization of active compounds of kamala tree (Mallotus philippensis) and their evaluation as biopesticides

Author: M. A. H. Chowdhury and H. SealDepartment of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP.44Abstract

Mallotus Philippensis (Kamala tree) mature fruits (40-45 day old) were collected from BAU campus, seed capsules were separated and extracted with different solvents viz. n-hexane, benzene, ethyl acetate, ethanol, chloroform and methanol to identify various compounds and evaluate them as biopesticides against some coleopteran and lepidopteran insects. The experiment was conducted in the laboratories of the department of Agricultural Chemistry, Entomology and Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (BCSIR). No pure compound was possible to isolate. Two compounds namely H-3, a long chain hydrocarbon, Undecane and E-3, an unknown compound were isolated from the chloroform extract of the seeds. Tentative structures of the compounds were elucidated by 1H-NMR, 13C-NMR and mass spectra analyses. Both the coleopteran and lepidopteran insects showed higher mortality after 24 hours but almost zero mortality after 72 hours against the compound E-3. The order of toxicity of this compound on the coleopteran insects was Pulse beetle> Red flour beetle>Rice beetle and on lepidopteran insects Brinjal shoot and fruit borer>Jute hairy caterpillar.

Keywords: Mallotus Philippensis, Extract, Biopesticides,

Title: Phytoremediation of toxic metal contaminated soil

Author: M. W. Zaman Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]

48



Abstract

The research program was divided into two steps. First step was the tolerance of different jute, kenaf and mesta varieties against Pb and Cr toxicity at germination stage. The experiment was carried out in the laboratory and net house of the Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh, during 2011-2012 with a view to identifying the individual and combined toxicity of heavy metals like Pb, Cr tolerant jute, kenaf and mesta varieties and accumulation of these toxic substances into the plant at germination stage. Six treatments were considered viz. 0, 20, 40, 60 and 120 mgL-1 for Pb and Cr separately and (0, 0), (60, 60), (100,100), (120,120) for combination of both Pb and Cr. The experiment was carried out in Completely Randomized Design with three replications. Two jute; two kenaf and one mesta varieties were considered for the present study. Increased level of Cr and combination of Pb and Cr in petridish culture significantly reduced the germination percentage and primary growth parameters. In case Pb, germination percentage and growth parameters were also decreased with the increase concentration of Pb, but the reduction was less than Cr toxicity. Almost all the varieties were able to tolerate up to 120mgL-1 Pb and Cr. From the chemical analyses, better performance in respect of accumulation of Pb and Cr were observed in kenaf HC -95 in both single and combined treatment compare to kenaf (var.HC-3) and mesta (var. samu-93) varieties. Considering all of the parameters, it was observed that kenaf (var. HC-95) had high tolerance of Pb and Cr. The findings of the research may be helpful for selecting jute, kenaf and mesta varieties for further phytoremrdiation study. In second step resistant varieties of kenaf and mesta will be grown on Pb and Cr contaminated soil.

Keywords: Jute, Toxic metal, Contaminate soil

Title: Extraction, chromatographic analysis, isolation and processing of colour pigments from carrot and turmeric for commercial use

Author: H. P. Seal Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Turmeric contains upto 5% essential oil, resin and upto 5% curcumin which is a polyphenol. Curcumin is the active substance of turmeric and is known as natural yellow 3. It is a nice food colour and has high medicinal and nutritious value. Curcumin was extracted from turmeric by alkalization method, precipitated, vacuum filtered, purified and grinded. The raw material and the product was then analyzed by thin layer chromatography.

Keywords: Extraction, Colour pigments, carrot, Turmeric

49


Title: Extraction, chromatographic isolation of Bishkatali (Polygonum hydropiper L.), Neem (Azadirachta indica) and study of the effect of biopesticide compounds

Author: K. C. Saha Department of Agricultural Chemistry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Extraction and chromatographic separation of Bishkatali (Polygonum hydropiper L.) plants powder were carried out in the Post Graduate Research Laboratory, Department of Agricultural Chemistry, BAU, Mymensingh during July 2011 to June 2012. Bishkatali weed is very familiar medicinal plant in this subcontinent and also used as an acaricide as well as pesticided. Selective extraction of the plant powder was performed by using solvents like hexane, ethanol and water respectively. The different extracting crude materials identified by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and the spots were visualized in the iodine chamber. The components were marked from their traveled corresponding Rf-values. Firstly the ethanolic crude material was washed out with 10% brine solution and then separated by applying the method of column chromatography using mixed solvent benzene : ethyl acetate (60 : 40 v/v). The two compounds A1 and A2 showed single spot under iodine vapour having Rf-values 0.882 and 0.796 of corresponding solvent system hexane : benzene (60 : 40 v/v) and benzene : ethyl acetate (9 : 1 v/v) respectively.

Keywords: Extraction, chromatographic isolation

Title: Saline-induced changes in the accumulation of biomolecules in land race rice varieties growing in the coastal regions of Bangladesh

Author: B. L. D. ChowdhuryDepartment of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh,


Abstract

Selection for salinity tolerance genotypes of rice based on phenotypic performance alone is less reliable. So, in the present study along with phenotypic performance, resemblance to relevant molecular marker and change in accumulation of different metabolites in vegetative part of rice plant grown under saline condition was taken into consideration. As rice is sensitive to salinity at the seedling stage and becomes tolerant at the vegetative stage and very susceptible at the reproductive stage, all the stages were included in the study. In total 127 land race varieties of coastal areas as well as few varieties released by BINA and BRRI were used to find out salt tolerant rice genotypes. Percent germination of rice genotypes was ascertained at salinity levels

50


0, 6, 9, 12, and 16 ds/m and in all levels data were collected till 5 days. Except in very few varieties (40-70% germination in 10 varieties) drastic reduction in final germination rate was not observed even at 16 dS/m of salinity. The main effect was the delaying to achieve the recorded percent of germination as the salinity increased. Shoot length of treated plant (16 ds/m salinity) at the germination stage (8 days old plant) decreased from 14.8% (Sada Mota Bashpai) to 76.5% (Lambo) and accordingly considering the minimum stressed caused reduction of shoot length, 8 varieties recorded as tolerant and 20 varieties as moderately tolerant. Visual performance of the rice plants at seedlings stage under salt stress (12 dS/m) was assessed by modified standard evaluation score where 21 varieties appeared tolerant and 14 varieties, moderately tolerant. Increase and in some cases decrease in the accumulation of osmo-regalatory metabolites such as proline, total sugar and reducing sugar was noticed in leaf sample of plant at the seedling stage (32 days old plant) in saline condition. Accumulation of proline in control varied from 12.3(Ghocca) to 64.5 mg/100gm (Minikit) where as under salinity variation was from 15.0 (Durga Bhog) to 81.0 mg/100gm (Nona Kochi). Considering the salt induced increment of proline in leaf at a higher rate, 24 varieties recorded as tolerant and 10, moderately tolerant. In the same way based on data of percent increment of total sugar due to salt stress, 20 varieties seemed tolerant and 10 varieties moderately tolerant. The rate of increase or decrease in accumulation of reducing sugar due to salinity did not correlate with that of respective values for total sugar and hence not used for screening purpose. Under salt stress, sodium content in leaf (35 days old plant) increased with a concomitant decrease of potassium. Percent increase of Na-content in leaf varied from 31 to 1600% and considering the lower range of increase 23 varieties assumed as tolerant and 13, moderately tolerant. The findings of the research will be helpful to screen salt tolerant rice genotypes.

Keywords: Salinity tolerance, Performance, Biomolecules

Title: Fallow land agroforestation for year round income generation and environmental amelioration in Bangladesh

Author: M. Abul HossainDepartment of Agroforestry, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

In an attempt to develop landscape production model with tree, crop and flower (TCF) combination in institutional fallow land, the inner yard of Karim Bhaban of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh was structurally modified as required. On the other hand, large sized homesteads and prayer place/graveyards were also modified in a similar manner but mostly focusing an forest, fuel wood and fruit plants in addition to regularly grown vegetable and spices for year round income generation in all the systems studied. The lay-out of the land area was done in such a way that necessary walk way and good looking views prevailed following plantation/sowing of selected suitable saplings/seedlings/seeds as required. Among these, the large homestead fallow land showed higher yield over the other two as because of more and

51

regular vegetable production in the system. The initial pruned branches yielded unexpected quantity of fuel woods for the farmers. This practice greatly reduced tree shade and effected good crop growth. Deep and cross trench method had to be followed to prune and reduce root intensities of other trees prevailing in the system. The practice of root pruning, branch pruning and development of paths and drainage systems facilitated good crop growth. The details of the results obtained are presented in photographs and line graphs showing regular and remarkable income generation from these under utilized lands. The large homestead, prayer place/graveyard and institutional fallow land yielded additional average income of Taka 4,400/-, 3,307/- and 1253/- from 5 decimal area of each of the land categories; the figures being 2,17,457/-, 1,63,422/- and 61,926/- per hectare, respectively. The lower income from institutional fallow land was resulted due to use of part of the land area for beautification purposes, such as, for flower plants where the value of flower plants couldn’t be calculated in this study. The systems will also yield valuable timbers in the long run in addition to adding continuous environmental benefits along with maximum accommodation of MPTS in the system.

Keywords: Environment, Production, Income generation, Benefit

Title: Rice paddy flux observation in Bengal low land: Seasonal variation in meteorological parameters, biometric components and CO2 flux at Mymensingh flux study site

Author: M. A. Baten, D. Alam and Akira MIYATA1 Department of Environmental Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, 1NIAES, Kannondai, Tsukuba, Japan, E-mail:[email protected]


Abstract

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the important greenhouse gases causing the global warming. Human activities are the main reason for increasing the CO2 concentration of the atmosphere (Keeling et al., 1995) and this will impact on our lives directly or indirectly. Increasing concentration of CO2 in the atmosphere results from imbalances between CO2 emitted to and removed from the atmosphere (Baldocchi et al., 2001). Terrestrial ecosystem has an important role as sinks and sources of the atmospheric CO2 because active CO2 exchange is occurring between the terrestrial ecosystem and the atmosphere through photosynthesis and respiration of plants and decomposition of soil organic matters. Eddy Covariance (EC) method, which is one of the micrometeorological flux measurement techniques, has been widely used to measure CO2

fluxes on an ecosystem scale in the long term basis. Carbon dioxide (CO2) flux was measured using the eddy covariance technique over rice paddy field at Mymensingh flux study site (24° 43' 31.0''N, 90° 25' 27.3''E; 18 m above sea level) from January 2011 to August 2012, and compared with 5-years average from 2006 to 2010. Gross primary production (GPP), ecosystem respiration (Re) and net ecosystem exchange (NEE) in the experimental period displayed distinct seasonal variations influenced by rice growth, and those seasonal variations generally followed averaged patterns in the previous years with short-term deviations from the averages caused by meteorological conditions. The seasonal variation of GPP showed its peaks of about 12 g C m -2

d-1 at full vegetative stage of Boro and Aman rice. Re also showed a seasonal variation, but its

52

peaks was smaller (5-6 g C m-2 d-1) and broader than those in GPP. NEE also showed a seasonal variation with peaks of assimilation (6 g C m-2 d-1) at full vegetative growth stage. Active CO2

exchange was also observed during the fallow period in rainy season, while the dry fallow period in winter was rather dormant in CO2 exchange. In the experimental period, the most noticeable deviation from the averaged trend was an advanced trend of NEE in the 2012 Boro season influenced by the earlier transplanting of rice. Another deviation of GPP and NEE from the average observed in late growing season of the 2011 Boro rice was caused by early harvest. Differences in cropping periods not only resulted in deviations of seasonal trend from the average but also influenced seasonal and annual CO2 budget of the paddy field. The Re/GPP ratio was generally stable, but interannual variability of CO2 budget in the fallow period in rainy season had non-negligible impact on the annual Re/GPP ratio. Management practices thus affected not only seasonal variation of CO2 flux but also its annual budget.

Keywords: Global warming, Greenhouse, Biometric components

Title: Development and application of decision-support tools to conserve and sustainably use genetic diversity in indigenous livestock and wild relatives

Author: A. K. F. H. Bhuiyan1, S. C. Sarker1

, F. Islam1, M. Akteruzzaman1, H. Jianlin2

, M.N.M. Ibrahim2 and A. M. Okeyo2

1Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, Bangladesh and 2International Livestock Research Institute (ILRI), Nairobi, Kenya, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Livestock are vital to subsistence and economic development in developing countries but these are losing and at risk of extinct. So, to conserve Indigenous Chicken and Black Bengal goat of Bangladesh, following benchmark, household, market agent survey and PRA, blood samples of indigenous chicken were collected and analyzed for molecular characterization and goat blood samples are in progress to analyze. A total of 192 chicken blood samples out of 250 were taken under study and DNA Extraction, DNA Measuring and Quality Check, Polymerase Chain Reaction and DNA Genotyping done with 20 Microsatellite Markers. The mean number of alleles was 8.075±0.145 per locus in Indigenous Village Chickens but in Red Jungle Cock (RJC) it was 1.70±0.034.Using Microsat Toolkit heterozygosity within population (village) per locus was high and the alleles matching were up to 68.42%.Expected heterozygosities (Hs:0.725) was higher than observed heterozygosities (Ho :0.671) in Nei’s estimation & Gis (0.075) of Nei’s estimation and Fis (0.085) of Weir & Cockerham were lower than Fit (0.090) of Weir & Cockerham and Gst (0.020) of Nei’s estimation & Fst (0.006) value of Weir & Cockerham were lower than global fixation index value (Fit=0.090) and relat (0.011) of Queller & Goodnight was also low as per the result of Fstat Analysis. Standard diversity indices showed observed heterozygosity lower than expected heterozygosity and Likelihood of individual genotype indicated that individuals were more homozygous within population than among the population. Three dimensional Graphs of Gentix Program showed individuals were admixed but

53

within populations were closely related while RJC was the distinct one. UPGMA Cluster using Nei's (1978) unbiased distance and coancestry distance (Reynolds et al. 1983) showed minimal distance between populations but the distance from RJC to others was high in both cases. The molecular genetic analysis revealed that though the Indigenous chickens in Bangladesh were admixed within individuals, within population and among the population but with in population and between populations they were more closely related than among populations.

Keywords: DNA Extraction, Indigenous livestock, Molecular characteristics

Title: Production of HYV vis-à-vis Indigenous Seed Bulls to Support Smallholder Dairying in Bangladesh

Author: A.K.F.H. Bhuiyan1, M. S.A. Bhuiyan1, A.K.M. Anisur Rahman2, Nokib Ulla Siddiquee1, S.M.A. Rahman1

1Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics and 2Department of Medicine, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Benchmark survey, a final report and farmers’ need were assessed. Farmers (82.9%) were found to have no idea about quality & merit of semen being offered to them by AI service providers and hence were unsatisfied with the production performance of crossbred cows. This sub-project helped the concept implanted in the minds of farmers and associated stakeholders. It has become evident that animal registration and data recording through Herdbook in a farmer participatory approach is feasible in rural cattle farming to offer quality dairy seed bulls. Registered elite cows/heifers were bred with superior known merit semen on priority basis. Alongside, contractual agreement with owners, registration of superior calves being born (77 calves born to date ) using known merit semen by the project and testing registered animals for their freeness from major diseases e.g. mastitis, TB, brucellosis and parasitic infestation have been carried out on regular basis. Mastitis of HYV cows was a big threat in the sub-project area (incidence was 55% SCM). Due to modalities and management tools applied in the sub-project area a significant reduction in mastitis (11.5% SCM) occurrence was observed. More importantly, economic loss of farmers due to repeat breeding, breeding with inappropriate semen genotypes, lack of awareness on the value of male calves, outbreak of contagious diseases resulting in death of calves and cows, sudden sale of problematic cows (repeat breeder and mastitis affected) has gone down through these sub-project interventions. Farmers’ training, routine vaccination and deworming of registered animals and regular recording and monitoring of field data (both on parent and progeny) were pursued. As a result, 17 (seventeen) young dairy seed bulls produced at the farmers herds were certified to date by a National Seed Certification Committee and information details on the said qualified bulls have already been passed on to the cattle breeding service providers of the country for necessary action.

Keywords: Stakeholder, Cattle farming, Breeding

54

Title: Research on characterization, conservation and improvement of Red Chittagong Cattle of Bangladesh

Author: A.K.F.H. Bhuiyan1, J.F. Keown2, , L.D. Van vleck2 , R.W. Blake3 and M.A. Habib1

1Department of Animal Breeding & Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh,, 2 University of Nebraska Lincoln, USA and 3Michigan State University, USA, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The project is aimed to conserve and improve the Red Chittagong Cattle through enhancing the livelihood of community farmers. From inception of the project to date the detail information regarding progeny, productive and reproductive performance and farmers benefits through milk and animal sale are being recorded with close monitoring. The mean birth weight, 205 day weaning weight, weaning age of male, female and pooled values are 14.21±0.27 (34), 14.79±0.37 (35) and 14.50±0.23 (69) kg, 41.54±2.05 (20), 47.85±3.03 (20) and 44.69±1.87 (40) kg, 191.68±3.26 (20), 185.60±3.30 (20) and 188.56±2.34 (40) days, respectively. The mean lactation length, lactation milk yield, daily milk yield and dry period of cows are 228.13±6.61 (52), 466.66±27.38 (41) kg, 1.98±0.08 (43) kg and 260.97±24.77 (32) days, respectively. The mean postpartum estrous period, service period, conception rate and calving interval are 160.05±15.89 (37) days, 215.52±17.33 (42) days 73.30±3.15 (80) % and 509.89±15.37 (65) days, respectively. The average herd mortality is 9% from which calf mortality is 16.5%. The monetary benefits are being realized by RCC farmers through milk sale, growing bull sale, culled cow sale etc. From the inception of the project a total of 76 animals of different ages were distributed among 67 farmers and to date a total of 128 progeny were born. So, total number of animal was 204 from which about 102 animals were culled due to age, reproductive disorder and male calves. After the end of 4 years a total number of 102 animals are now being reared by 65 farmers. The results of the study therefore indicate that farmers are being profited out of RCC farming for livelihood and concurrently conservation of the said valuable genetic resource is being ensured. Further, biological data being generated on animals of new generations and parities / stages are creating research opportunity for the graduates and would be useful to standardize performance and animal recording system in other rural communities of the country.

Keywords: Red Chittagong cattle, Livelihood, Milk yield

Title: In situ conservation and improvement of endangered livestock species (Aseel bird and Gayal) in Bangladesh

Author: M. O. FaruqueDepartment of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


55


Abstract

This study has been planned to conduct in situ conservation program of Aseel and Gayal for producing seed stocks and improving their productivity. To achieve this goal, the actual number of Aseel and Gayal in the home tract in Bangladesh is being estimated, awareness are being grown among the farmers and policy makers about the importance of conservation of these species. The economically important phenotypes, behavior and local adaptability of Aseel and Gayal are being studied to produce seed stocks of these two species. Aseel chicken is being studied in Brahmanbaria district and Gayal is being studied in Bandarban. Farmer’s societies have been formed in both areas. Sarail Upazila of Brahmanbaria district, and Ruma, Roangchhari, Thanchi Upazila of Bandarban district have been selected as the experimental sites. Survey was made in those areas to know the actual number of Aseel and Gayal. Procurement of equipment has been completed and infrastructure has been developed for onward progress of this study and to fulfill of the objectives of the project.

Keywords: Livestock, Improvement, Productivity

Title: Studies on the Quantitative Trait Loci (QTL) of economic traits in Black Bengal goat



Abstract

This research has been set to identify the quantitative loci of economic traits in Black Bengal goats in Bangladesh. QTL will be detected based on LD using backcross populations of goat.Nagar village of Baraigram upazila, Udbaria village, West Noa para village, Pam Pathuria village and Khamar Pathuria village of Gurudaspur upazila of Natore district have been selected for producing experimental flock of goats (F1 back cross progenies). Hansamapara village of Roangchhari Upazila; Kaikhonpara and Baghmara, Bandarban Upazila of Bandarban district have been selected for producing seed stock of Black Bengal goat. A total of 171 farmers having 284 does (G0) formed the foundation stock to produce back cross progenies. Training on the record keeping was organized for the selected farmers and farmer’s volunteers in Natore and Bandarban. A total of five Black Bengal bucks and 193 Black Bengal does (G 0) were used to produce G1 pure Black Bengal progenies. 196 G1 Black Bengal does were available to mate with 4 Beetal bucks for producing G2 crossbred progenies. Selective breeding is being practiced in Bandarban. Fifty bucks, castrated males and does of different age have been slaughtered so far for determining meat yield and quality. Blood samples of bucks used in mating purpose, selected does and kids were collected for isolation of DNA samples and subsequent genotyping using microsatellite markers. Eighteen microsatellite markers have been tested so far. The procurement of goods has been completed. The molecular Genetics laboratory has been modernized and ready with all equipment to do PCR work.

56


Keywords: QTL, Black Bengal goat, DNA, PCR

Title: Genetic variation on the control of nematodes in the small ruminant in Bangladesh



Abstract

To quantify relative resistance to gastrointestinal parasites of different populations of goat, measures have been taken to use an artificial challenge protocol followed by a natural field challenge for BBH (Black Bengal goat of Hilly region) and BBW (Black Bengal goat of western region). BBH is assumed to have resistant to gastrointestinal parasites specially Haemonchus contortus and BBW is assumed to be susceptible to gastrointestinal parasites specially Haemonchus contortus. 20 BBW goats of 4-5 month old were collected from Bandarban (Hill district) and transferred to Natore, a district in the western part in the 1st week of March, 2011. 20 goats of BBW of same age were also selected from Natore. There are 8 male and 12 female goats in each group. These 40 animals were subjected to artificial challenge. In 3 rd week of March, 2011 all the goats were treated with Ivermectin @ 1 ml/10kg body weight for deworming. Faeces were collected every week to check the presence of parasite as well as for total egg count. In the middle of May, 2011, a blood sample for DNA extraction were collected and animals were challenged with 5000 infective L3 larvae. Body weight, fecal egg counts (FEC), packed cell volume (PCV), and FAMACHA scores were taken at 0, 28, 35, and 42 days after artificial infection.

Keywords: Control, Small ruminant, Genetic variation

Title: Conservation of Black Bengal goat as the potential genetic resource in Bangladesh

Author: M. A. M. Yahia KhandokerDepartment of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Three research works were conducted under the project title “Conservation of Black Bengal goat as the potential genetic resource in Bangladesh”. 1. The present study was undertaken to study the production and reproduction parameters of Black Bengal goat. The traits considered for the study were birth weight, 12 month body weight, body weight at first estrus, age at first estrus, age at first conception, daily milk production, litter size and kid mortality rate based on different factors like sex, type of birth, parity of dam and season of birth in Nucleus Breeding Flock,

57



Modhupur and Nilphamari. This study revealed the type of birth, parity of dam and season had significant effect (P<0.01) on birth weight at three different regions, whereas no significant effect was observed between sex of kid. The average birth weight (kg) of kids in NBF, Modhupur, and Nilphamari were 1.09±0.27, 1.09±0.25, and 1.10±0.27 kg, respectively. On the other hand sex of kid and season had significant effect (P<0.01) on body weight (kg) at 12 months of age in three different regions. The average body weight at 12 months of age was 14.40±0.53, 14.20±0.63 and 14.30±0.66 kg in NBF, Modhupur, and Nilphamari respectively. It was also observed that average body weight at first estrus in NBF, Modhupur, and Nilphamari were 9.70±0.67, 9.48±0.34 and 9.12±0.47 kg, respectively, where parity of dam had a significant effect (P<0.01) in Nilphamari but insignificant in NBF and Modhupur. Average age at first conception in Black Bengal does in NBF, Modhupur and Nilphamari were 9.50±0.57, 9.91±0.41 and 9.60±0.41 months, respectively. Parity of dam and Season had significant (P<0.01) effect on age at first conception in Nilphamari but insignificant in NBF and Modhupur. The result also indicated that type of birth, parity of dam and season of birth had significant (P<0.01) effect on daily milk production in all regions. The average daily milk production of Black Bengal does in NBF, Modhupur, and Nilphamari were 387.01±26.71, 217.32±29.51 and 218.42±28.31 ml, respectively. Average litter size in Black Bengal does in NBF, Modhupur, and Nilphamari were 1.49±014, 1.52±0.11 and 1.65±0.03 respectively. Parity of dam had significant (P<0.05) effect on litter size and also highest litter size was observed in 3 rd parity in all regions. Average kid mortality rate in NBF, Modhupur and Nilphamari were (10±0.02%). Season of birth had significant (P<0.01) effect on kid mortality rate in NBF. It is revealed from the study that sex, type of birth, parity and season had significant effect on production and reproduction parameters in NBF, Modhupur and Nilphamari and the performance also varied between NBF and field condition. 2. The present study was undertaken to evaluate Black Bengal goats (BBG) by estimating genetic parameters under field condition. Data of this study were collected from record of USDA funded project on “Conservation of Black Bengal goat as the potential genetic resource of Bangladesh”, partaing to Dimla of Nilphamaridistrict and Madhupur ofTangaildistrict termed region-1 and region-2 respectively. Goats were reared under semi-intensive management system. The traits considered included both productive and reproductive traits viz. birth weight, weight at every 3-months interval up to 12 months, daily milk yield (DMY), gestation length (GL), and litter size(LS). Region 1 had the highest coefficient of variation (CV) for birth weight (17.72%) and the lowest for 12 month weight (8.64%).On the other hand, in region 2 the highest CV was observed for birth weight (18.74%) and the lowest CV was for 12 month weight (9.98%). Sex of kid had significant (p<0.01) effect on body weights at 6, 9 and 12 months of age. Type of birth and parity of dam had significant (p<0.01) effect only on birth weight, whereas season of birth affected (p<0.05) all the body weight traits. Heritability (h2) estimates for body weights at birth to 12-month ranged from 0.45 to 0.50 in region 1 and 0.49 to 0.56 in region 2. The high heritability estimates of body weights indicated that there is a good opportunity for genetic improvement of this trait in a selection scheme. Estimates of h2for GL, LS and DMY were 0.013, 0.119, and 0.456 respectively in region 1 and 0.015, 0.152 and 0.482 respectively in region 2. The low estimates of heritability for reproductive traits indicate that progeny testing should give better result in selection program. Genetic correlations between body weight traits ranged from 0.39 to 0.87, whereas phenotypic correlations ranged from 0.35 to 0.90 in region 1 and 0.32 to 0.92 and 0.28 to 0.78 respectively in region 2. The estimates of genetic and phenotypic correlations showed no genetic antagonisms among the weight traits analyzed. The repeatability (R) estimates of DMY and LS were found to

58

be 0.42±0.11 and 0.045±0.04 respectively in region 1 and 0.44±0.18 and 0.15±0.11 in region 2. On the basis of predicted breeding value (PBV) the animal ID 73 and 555 had the highest breeding value for body weight at different stages of live weight respectively in two regions. The Doe ID 125 and 202 had the highest breeding value for Milk yield respectively in two regions. During selection and breeding program these top ranked animals should get top priority if those traits are considered for improvement in the next generation. As regional variation has no effect on performance of BBG its effect may be ignored in evaluating Black Bengal goat in differential regions of Bangladesh under same managemental conditions.3. The present study was aimed at selection of Black Bengal bucks based on their fertility and the performance of their progeny in field condition. Data on bucks used in the present study were collected from the nucleus breeding flock of the Artificial Insemination Center under the Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. On the other hand, data on progeny were collected from field research area, Dimla of Nilphamari district. The research facilities were provided by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) project from January, 2011 to June, 2012. The traits considered were birth weight, weight at every 3-months interval up to 12 months. Average daily gain (g/day) of progeny produced from 10 bucks and semen parameters (semen volume, sperm concentration, mass motility, per cent of sperm livability and normal spermatozoa) were also collected. Data on 90 progeny of 10 Black Bengal bucks were analyzed. Heritability estimates obtained for birth weight, 3, 6, 9, 12-month weights and average daily gain of progeny were 0.41±0.08, 0.49±0.07, 0.46±0.08, 0.48±0.28, 0.50±0.09 and 0.49±0.06, respectively. The high heritability estimates of body weights indicated that there is a good opportunity for genetic improvement of this trait in a selection scheme. Heritability estimates obtained for semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm motility, sperm livability and normal sperm were 0.11±0.04, 0.25±0.07, 0.13±0.08, 0.12±0.08 and 0.06±0.03, respectively. The highest non-return rate was observed in bucks of 32, 52 and 57(66.67±6.75%). The lowest was found in buck 48(41.67±5.65%). On the basis of breeding value, at birth weight among 10, first 3 top bucks number 52, 57 and 54; at body weight after six months of age top 3 bucks number 52, 4 and 11; at average daily gain top 3 bucks 52, 4 and 11. Selection index of bucks for all traits was calculated and bucks were ranked accordingly. Selection index of buck 52, 7 and 4 was 1009.39, 934.595 and 865.808 respectively. From this study, these top ranking three bucks can be selected and conserved for production and preservation of frozen semen for long term use.

Keywords: Genetic resource, Black Bengal goat, Production

Title: Impact on progeny growth performance through selection for reducing extra feed intake of bull

Author: M. A. HoqueDepartment of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

59

This study was conducted to estimate the impact of bull feed utilization performance on progeny early growth and the genetic relationships between traits of bull and their progeny. Records on four bulls and 96 of their progeny born from 2005 to 2011 with pedigree information were used. The sites of the experiment were the artificial insemination center and the dairy farm of Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. Traits included were metabolic body weight, feed intake and residual feed intake (RFI) for bull performance and birth weight and average daily gain for progeny performance. The metabolic body weight of breeding bulls ranged from 92.88±1.22 to 106.05±2.28 kg. The average daily feed intake of breeding bulls differed significantly (p<0.05). The RFI of breeding bulls were ranged from -0.57±0.07 to 0.54±0.06 kg/day. It has been found that the RFI values of two bulls were negative and the other two bulls were positive. The mean values for birth weight of calves produced from different breeding bulls ranged from 16.15±2.01 to 17.71±1.89 kg. Effects of breeding bulls on birth weight and average daily gain of calves were significant (p<0.05). Estimated heritability for birth weight was moderate (0.30) and for average daily gain was low (0.26). The genetic correlation between metabolic body weight of bulls and birth weight of their progeny was strong (rg=0.52), whereas feed intake of bulls with birth weight and average daily gain of their progeny were moderate (0.43±0.21 and 0.40±0.23, respectively). Low but favorable negative genetic correlation (rg = -0.10) was observed between RFI of bulls with average daily gain of their progeny. Estimated moderate heritability indicated that variation exist on average daily gain of calves. The negative genetic correlation between RFI of bulls and average daily gain of their progeny indicated that it is possible to improve simultaneously RFI (reducing extra feed intake) of breeding bulls and daily gain of their progeny.

Keywords: Bull feed, Impact, Performance

Title: Heat stress on the physiological and productive traits in sheep and goat

Author: M. A. HashemDepartment of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Two experiments were conducted in goat and sheep, respectively. Experiment I was conducted to study the effect of heat stress on behavior, blood parameter, carcass characteristics and meat quality of the Black Bengal goat. Nine goats having similar in age, sex and weight were divided as zero hour (T0), four hours (T4) and eight hours (T8) heat exposure. Temperature–humidity index (THI) value was calculated as 28.17 which indicate all animals were in extreme severe heat stress. Respiration, pulse and eating time were increased with the increase of heat stress (p<0.01). RBC, PCV%, Hb%, WBC was significantly (P<0.01) higher in eight hours heat exposure group than other groups. pH of meat was significantly (p<0.05) different in heat stress and control group. Blood, pluck, spleen, kidney as well as cooking loss were significantly (p<0.01) increased as increasing the heat stress. Experiment II was conducted to study the effect of heat stress on behavior, blood parameter, carcass characteristics and meat quality of

60


indigenous sheep. Nine sheep were divided into three groups as experiment I. Skin and rectal temperature, respiration and pulse rate were increased in heat stress groups. Eating time, chewing rate, standing time were increased but rumination time, number of rumination per hour, number of boli per rumination, bolus time, number of chew per bolus and lying time were decreased in heat treated groups. RBC, PCV%, Hb%, WBC, Neutrophil, Esonophil, Lymphocyte and Monocyte were increased in heat exposure groups. Drip loss was increased (P<0.05) but dressing percentage was decreased in heat treated groups (p<0.01). Significant results were found in weight of heart, kidney, lung + trachea and pluck in control and heat treated groups (p<0.05). It can be concluded that heat stress had significant changes on some behavioral, blood parameters, carcass characteristics and meat quality of indigenous goat and sheep.

Keywords: Effect of heat stress, Sheep and goat

Title: Effect of MgCl2 and PO4 on poultry manure composting and its impact on quality fertilizer production and environment control

Author: M. A. Hashem and M. M. RahmanDepartment of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

Three experiments were conducted to examine the effect of MgCl2 and PO4 on poultry manure composting and its impact on maize fodder production and environment control. In experiment I five treatments namely layer litter (T1), layer litter with straw (T2), layer litter with tree leaves (T3), layer litter with crop residues (T4) and layer litter with saw dust (T5) were studied to establish the method of composting layer litter. The sample from composted materials was collected at 0, 10, 20 and 30 days for proximate analysis. It may be concluded that proximate composition of all samples at 20 days in T4 treatment was acceptable up to the end of composting period. Experiment II was conducted to compare the different struvite composts made by incorporating different ratios of MgCl2 and PO4 salt in layer litter with a view to produce slow releasing fertilizer and to reduce ammonia emission by precipitating ammonia into struvite for environmental control. To fulfill the objectives four treatments groups were made e.g., (T0=Control), (T1=layer litter with MgCl2:KH2PO4, 10%), (T2=layer litter with MgCl2:KH2PO4, 20%), and (T3=layer litter with MgCl2:KH2PO4, 30%). The sample from composted materials was collected at 0, 10, 20 and 30 days of interval for proximate analysis, pH, C/N ratio. Addition of 30% Mg and PO4 salts in layer litter composting, N retention as CP, pH and C/N ratio at the end of the composting period was in optimum condition. Experiment III was conducted to examine the effect of cowdung, struvite compost and urea on maize fodder production. The treatments under study were T0- Control, T1-Struvite Compost @10MT/ha, T2-Cowdung @ 10MT/ha, T3-

Urea@ 250Kg/ha. The total biomass yields of maize fodder was the highest in struvite composting treatment group (p<0.01) than others. The highest value of carbon was observed in struvite compost which indicates the maximum carbon sequestration occurred than all other treatments. Therefore, considering the above mentioned parameters, the application of struvite compost might be recommended for maize fodder production as well as environment control through carbon sequestration and odour minimization.

61


Keywords: Environment, Effect, Fodder, Production

Title: In vitro effect of protein rich Moringa oleifera leaf with or without Syzygium cumini tannin on rumen fermentation characteristics particularly protein degradation in the rumen

Author: M. R. AminDepartment of Animal Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Memensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

An experiment was conducted to investigate rumen fermentation pattern particularly protein degradation in the rumen using protein rich Moringa oleifera (MO) and/or tannin rich Syzygium cumini (SC) leaves. The growth promoting antibiotics (GPA), Monensin (M) was used as external control to compare with the degradation of MO, SC and MO+SC. The in vitro gas production was highest in control (C) followed by MO, M, and MO+SC but lowest with the addition of SC. The in vitro gas production with MO and M showed almost similar trend of result. Addition of MO accumulated protein from ruminal fermentation by increasing soluble protein that made protein concentration very high in the soluble state and at the same time accumulation of protein in the pellets was found higher compared to M. Addition of SC protected protein from ruminal fermentation by precipitating soluble protein that made protein concentration very low in the soluble state but higher protein accumulation in the pellets were found compared to the C, MO and M while MO conserved protein in the soluble form as of M. Protein precipitation with the addition of SC started from very early hours of incubation. Since ammonia is the end products of proteolysis, this fermentation parameter is directly linked-up with protein degradation. Ammonium concentration was increased with the addition of MO as of M although the concentration was decreased with the addition of SC and SC+MO since tannins protected protein from microbial degradation. When protein rich MO was incubated with SC tannin, the protein accumulation in the pellet was found highest and at the same time soluble protein accumulation was more compared with SC only. Therefore, it can be predicted from the present findings that MO and SC may use as natural source of feed additives to alter rumen fermentation characteristics especially it increased the availability of soluble and protected protein and with the combined incubation of MO+SC may increase the availability of both soluble and protected protein in the rumen may ensure ruminant productivity. Further in vivo study is needed to ensure the benefits of MO and SC as an additive in the ruminant diets as of growth promoter M.

Keywords: Moringa oleifera, Protein, Formulation

Title: Socio-economic status of buffalo farmers and the productive and reproductive performances and management practices of buffaloes in some selected areas of Bangladesh

62


Author: M. R. Amin, Z. H. Khandaker1, M. O. Faruque2 and M. A. SiddikiDepartment of Animal Science, 1Department of Animal Nutrition and 2Department of Animal Breeding and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Memensingh-2202, Bangladesh. E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

The potentialities of buffaloes to meet present and future demands of rapidly growing population deserves special attention because of its capacity to convert economically course roughages and other cereal by-products into milk and meat. This research program is mainly designed to formulate and recommend cost-effective ration for increases milk production, growth and reproductive performances of buffaloes. The study areas are selected on the basis of availability of buffaloes in Mymensingh, Noakhali, Moulovibazar, Natore and Rajshahi areas in Bangladesh. At the beginning, a field survey was conducted with the pretested questionnaire to get basic information on the socio economic condition of the buffalo farmers, demography of buffaloes, availability of feeds and fodders, existing feeding systems and management practices, current productive (milk and meat) and reproductive performances of buffaloes. The average age of the buffalo farmers are 43.31, where the highest age of the farmers was in Rajshahi followed by Noakhali, Moulovibazar, Mymensingh and Natore. The highest numbers of buffalo farmers are uneducated but in Noakhali, 55% of the farmers have their education more than primary level followed by Natore, Moulovibazar and Mymensingh. The occupation of the farmers is mostly agriculture. In Noakhali and Natore, 45 and 40% farmers respectively, are fully dependent on livestock. Among the respondents, the highest numbers of buffaloes are found in Noakhali followed by Natore, Rajshahi, Mymensingh and Moulovibazar. There are twenty three feeds available, some are common to different locations but some are very specific in some locations. There are grasses with common name but very with their nutritional content in different locations. The average milk production of indigenous and crossbred buffaloes was shown to be 2.95 and 3.88kg, respectively. The milk production of crossbred buffaloes of Mymensingh, Natore and Rajshahi was more than 4 liters/day. On the contrary, in Noakhali all the buffaloes are indigenous type but the milk production is good. In Moulovibazar, the breed was identified as swamp type. The average price of the milk was more than 60 taka/liter. The highest milk price was found in Noakhali followed by Mymensingh, Natore, Rajshahi and lowest price was in Moulovibazar. The price of buffalo milk was always higher than cattle milk irrespective of the location in the selected areas. The average price of meat is more than 230 taka/kg . The highest meat price was found in Natore and the lowest price was in Moulovibazar. The age at first heat that is puberty of buffaloes was almost similar in different locations. The age at first pregnancy follows almost the similar trend as of age at first heat. The gestation period of buffaloes in different locations was similar except that in Moulovibazar is 10.5 months. The average number of service per conception was 3 and found to be lower in Rajshahi. The average post partum heat period (PPHP) was 4.5 months. The highest duration was found in Natore and lowest in Rajshahi areas. The inter-calving period was highest in Natore and lowest in Mymensingh in this investigation. The birth and weaning weight were always higher in crossbred than indigenous buffaloes. The weaning age of buffaloes are almost close in indigenous and crossbred buffaloes in different locations of selected areas. The slaughter age was also similar in different locations

63


but higher than cattle. All the buffalo raisers in all the locations prefer buffalo than cattle milk. In the case of meat, the choice is 40 and 60 for buffalo and cattle, respectively. Semi-intensive production system is practiced in Mymensingh, Natore, Rajshahi and Moulovibazar. In Noakhali, they are following extensive production system (80%) but some are keeping their buffaloes in Bathan (20%). In Moulovibazar, 90% farmers are keeping their buffaloes in the semi-intensive production system. All the buffalo farmers are following group feeding instead of individual feeding. In Mymensingh, Natore and Rajshahi, buffaloes are grazing 5-7 hours but in Noakhali and Moulovibazar, the grazing time was up to 10 hours. Almost all the farmers have suggested that buffalo rearing is profitable than cattle.

Keywords: Buffalo, Production, Demand, PPHP

Title: Approaches to develop broiler sire & dam lines from available genetic resources

Author: M. A. Ali, M. B. R. Mollah and M. G. AzamDepartment of Poultry Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh -2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

A selection study was conducted with 1800 one-day chicks of male line-white (MLW), male line colored (MLC) and female line-white (FLW) and female line colored (FLC) parents base population to evaluate their progress as a broiler sire & dam line parents for the production of day-old broiler chicks. The birds were wing banded & brooded with electric brooder for 5 weeks of age separately. They were reared on littered floor up to 18 weeks of age and then transferred to individual laying cages. The male lines were selected on 5 th week body weight, while female lines were selected for moderate growth at 6 weeks of age and finally at 35 weeks of age on index value using 6 weeks body weight, up to 35 weeks egg number and 32 weeks egg weight. Fifty percent females of female lines were selected for the production of next generation on the basis of higher score. The selection was done for three generations except MLC which was done for two generations. The male line white (MLW) at 5wk gained 160g in three generation of selection, while male line colored (MLC) gained 81g in two generation of selection i.e. 41-53g per generation. The MLW was whitish/yellowish shank, white feather & single comb. The MLC was whitish/yellowish/ blackish shank, red/brown, black & barred feather with 100 per cent single comb. The FLW was yellowish shank, white feather and single comb. The FLC was yellowish/whitish shank, red/brown feather with single/rose/pea comb. The body weight of male & female line parents at 20 weeks, sexual maturity and peak production was comparable in all generations except MLW at G3 were they grow faster. The MLW came to sexual maturity 4 weeks earlier, while FLC delayed by 1 week. The body weight at sexual maturity was highest in MLW followed by MLC, FLW and FLC i.e. 3722, 2288, 1641 and 1612g respectively. Egg production in FLW improved by 8 eggs /generation but not in FLC. The egg size in female lines at sexual maturity improved by 9g and at 32 weeks by 1-3g. In female lines age at 50% production was at 23-24 weeks; while peak production was at 27 weeks of age which was 5

64

weeks and 7eeks earlier in FLW but delayed in FLC by 1week and 2weeks respectively. The male lines were lower peak egg production (65-81%), while female lines were higher peak egg production (83-89%). The livability improved at a scale of 5-11 % by selection in early growing (o-6 weeks) and13-22 % during growing period (7-19 weeks).While the birds in laying period become more adjustable with the environment through selection. The white feather broiler produced through line crosses of MLW×FLW attained the highest live weight, 1203g with FCR 1.67, while the colored strain produced through line crosses of FLC×MLC attained 759g with FCR 1.9 at 6 weeks. The livability was 98-99 with dressing meat yield of 75.00 vs.73% in white & colored strain. The results revealed that selection improved the performance of male and female line parents and line the crosses of white & colored strain of broiler at marketing. However, the selection should be continued for more generations with more lines to get better growth to compete with the imported strains.

Keywords: Genetic resources, Broiler, Body weight

Title: Characterization and conservation of the indigenous Guinea fowl (Numida meleagris) germplasm in Bangladesh

Author: S. C. DasDepartment of Poultry Science, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected]


Abstract

There are 11 poultry species, only few are available in Bangladesh, of which the chicken is dominant over others. The chicken comprises almost 90% of the total poultry population followed by 8% of domestic duck. The remaining poultry species reported are quail, pigeon, geese and guinea fowl. There is no specific data on guinea fowl population, however, the number is quite negligible and declining gradually. In past decades, though the guinea fowls were occasionally found in the rural areas, unfortunately these birds are disappearing day by day from the main stream of native poultry. Thus, if proper attention is not paid to conserve the germplasm, guinea fowl in the near future may be turned to an endangered poultry species in Bangladesh. Information on the current status of guinea fowl in Bangladesh is either limited or not available at any other livestock department, institute and division or even in the internet search. Since the guinea fowl has tangible meat and egg production potential, it may have different significance as a component part of rural poultry production to supply family protein partially for the masses and also could be a part of today’s environment friendly diversified eco-agriculture system. To observe the productive and reproductive performances and conservation of the germplasm, the guinea fowl birds would be maintained at BAU Poultry Farms. A few numbers of male and female mature birds have been collected from Tongi Market, Gajipur and are maintain at the BAU Poultry Farm for breeding purpose. Further, the hatching eggs were collected from Poba Upazilla, Rajshahi and set in the hatchery for hatching. The keets may be hatched after 1 week. The keets would be maintained to observe the growth performance during the brooding and rearing period.

65

Keywords: Poultry species, Conservation

Title: Low lying inland fish farming: Resource use perspective

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Taj Uddin, M. T. Uddin, Department of Agricultural Economics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected] Mobile:01714357803


Abstract

The study was designed to estimate the productivity, profitability and resource use efficiency of the prominent low lying inland fish farming practices for one year in some selected areas of three upazillas namely Phulpur, Modon and Karimganj under Mymensingh, Netrokona and Kishoreganj districts, respectively. Field level data were collected during the period of November 2011 to February 2012 through direct interview. One hundred and eighty sample farmers taking sixty from each district were interviewed purposively using structured questionnaire. A combination of tabular, statistical and mathematical techniques was done to achieve the objectives of the study. Eight types of fish farming practices were found in the study areas, among which only two types were prominent i.e., pond fish farming and beel fish farming. Other six farming practices were river, haor, derelict pond, ditch, crop field and canal fish farming. The proportion of pond fish farming pattern in the total sample was 40.0 percent and beel fish farming pattern was 34.4 percent. Productivity of beel fish farming was higher than pond fish farming. The benefit cost ratio in beel fish farming was 3.49 and in case of pond fish farming it was 2.53. From multiple regression models for pond fish farming, it was observed that coefficients of human labour, feed, cowdung and manure had significant impact on gross return, whereas coefficients of feed, harvesting and making sanctuary had significant impact on gross return in the case of beel fish farming. The value of R2 was 0.71 in pond fish farming and it was 0.84 for beel fish farming. Returns to scale were estimated at 1.35 and 1.05 in pond and beel fish farming, respectively. In pond fish farming, it was also observed that ratios of MVP and MFC for fertilizer, harvesting and making sanctuary were less than one which means that these inputs were over utilized. In the case of beel fish farming, ratios of MVP and MFC for human labor, fingerlings, feed, cowdung and manure, harvesting and making sanctuary were greater than one which means that these inputs were underutilized. However, the study also identified some problems and constrains faced by the farmers and suggested some recommendation to improve the present production situation so that productivity of low lying inland fish farming would possibly be increased.

Keywords: Productivity, Cost benefit ratio, Profitability, Inland fish farm

66


Title: Micro-credit programmes of different NGOs: A comparative study

Author: Prof. Dr. Mohammad Animul Islam, Dept. of Agricultural Statistics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile: 01727265970


Abstract

This study evaluated micro-credit programmes of six leading NGOs (BRAC, Grameen Bank, PROSHIKA, ASA, CARE Bangladesh and TMSS) in terms of their structural differences, interest rate, management of default cases, and clients’ views towards the programmes. The final objective of this project is to develop a selection criterion to identify the efficient programme. A total of 406 members from the selected NGOs operating micro-credit programmes in Dhaka, Mymensingh, Sherpur, Netrokona, Kishoreganj, Norshindi, Sylhet and Lalmonirhat were interviewed. The data analyses reveal that the majority of the large amount of loans (above Tk.15000) was taken by GB members (33.7 percent). The respondents who knew the actual interest rate were more in BRAC (42.9 percent). Workers of GB ranked first in terms of field visit (24.9 percent). Request needed to get loan was the highest in BRAC (53.0 percent). Loan repayment was highest among GB members (20.6 percent). The satisfaction level of respondents was more in GB and low in SSS. Poverty alleviation due to micro-credit was the highest among GB members (22.0 percent). Logistic regression analysis suggests that amount of loan taken, experience of poverty alleviation and NGO membership are three important determinants of satisfaction level on the micro-credit programme. A set of characteristics were chosen to find out the best performing micro-credit operating NGO. The data analysis suggests that TMSS is the best performing NGO. The successive NGO in order of rank are GB, SSS, PROSHIKA, BRAC and ASA.

Keywords: Poverty alleviation, Evaluation, Micro-credit, Interest rate, NGO

Title: Impact of Bio-slurry and Eco-fertilizer application on crop production and livelihood improvement in selected areas of Bangladesh: A socio-economic assessment

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Idris Ali Mia, Dept. of Agribusiness and Marketing, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01552631236


Abstract

The study assessed the socioeconomic impact of utilizing bio-slurry (by-product of bio-gas plant) and eco-fertilizer (by-product of eco-toilet) in producing BR-29 rice, tomato, potato and cabbage taking 50 samples of BARI’s bio-slurry demonstration project in selected areas of Mymensingh

67



and 50 samples of eco-sanitation project of BARD at Comilla. The findings revealed that mixed use of bio-slurry or eco-fertilizer with chemical fertilizer was more profitable compared to using only chemical fertilizer. Yield per decimal land of BR-29 rice, tomato, potato and cabbage increased by 3kg, 11.2kg, 3.6kg and 23.8kg for the mixed use of bio-slurry with chemical fertilizer. The gross margin increased by Tk.81.9, Tk.84.0, Tk.64.3 and Tk.291.0 while yield per decimal land of BR-29 rice, tomato, potato and cabbage increased by 4.9 kg, 12 kg, 3.6kg and 23.8kg for mixed use of eco-fertilizer with chemical fertilizer. Here gross margin increased by Tk.68.8, Tk.106.2, Tk.83.5 and Tk.259.7. The additional yield helped ensuring food security and gross margin helped improving livelihood and reducing poverty to some extent. Some social, psychological, religious and gender related prejudices were reported during inception period. Most of the prejudices wept out later on. Bio-slurry and eco-fertilizer helped improving soil health, quality of crops and reduced fertilizer cost about one fourth of the total cost. Hazardous management, high establishment cost and improper storage facilities were identified as main problems. Extensive training programs at users’ level for knowledge transfer on bio-slurry and eco-fertilizer use to farmers in every nook and corner of the country should be emphasized. Involving Directorate of Agricultural Extension for sustainable expansion through an established network should get priority and linkage between institutions should be strengthened. Bio-slurry and eco-fertilizer programs should tie up with organic farming programs of the government. More collaborative research should be conducted for innovating more sustainable technologies and for their potential multi-dimensional use.

Keywords: Profitability, bio-slurry and eco-fertilizer, Comical fertilizer, livelihood, Impact

Title: Feasibility study on agribusiness development through contract farming

Author: Prof. Dr. Shankar Kumar Raha, Dept. of Agribusiness and Marketing, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01710679071


Abstract

The study investigated the feasibility of agribusiness for participation in contract farming by small scale farmers in three selected districts namely Kushtia, Natore and Kishoreganj. The objectives were i) to study the performance of dairy and crop’s contract farming practices, ii) to examine the distribution mechanisms of increased income generated through value adding activities, iii) to study the accessibility of contract farming arrangements by the different sections of the farming community, iv) to make recommendations for leveraging contract farming for improving supply chain efficiency. The selected commodities were tobacco, pulses, and milk and the contract firms were Shilaidah Dairy, PRAN Dairy, Bombay Sweets and Kuliar Chair Dairy Complex. Sample included randomly selected 150 contract farmers and purposely selected 30 intermediaries. The study revealed that the selected commodities were profitable although existing production and marketing practices were not uniform. The marketed surplus of milk

68


varied from 92% to 94%, while 100% of tobacco was sold. The demands for selected commodities have been increased due to demand from various companies -buyers in the market. The majority of the farmers were involved in marketing contract and about 27% of the farmers involved in production contract. A total of 73.2% of the farmers dealt verbally with the sponsors and 26.8% of the respondents signed formal contract arrangements. Contract farming was not so developed in the field of milk and pulse production and marketing as in tobacco. The concept of contract farming was not well disseminated in the study area. Education, dissemination of information and promotion for contract farming are requisites for success in contract farming in practice. Scope exists for the utilization of contract farming for the development of both the producers and the processing companies. It is concluded that the planned investment is highly feasible to operate agribusiness in Bangladesh.

Keywords: Marketing, Contract Farming, Value add, Agribusiness, FeasibilityTitle: Development of low-cost technology for pre-cast semi-circular canal segments

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Nurul Hoque, Dept. of Farm Structure and Environmental Engineering, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh 2202, E-mail : [email protected], Mobile-01712201102, Bangladesh


Abstract

Low cost irrigation canal providing minimum water loss reduces cost for crop (rice) production. Earthen canal is widely used in Bangladesh which is considered low cost but liable for huge water loss. Buried pipe system is sustainable technology but costly. Canal made of pre-cast flat slab is a low cost technology practicing now a days but its stability needs agricultural land in both sides when installed. Pre-cast semi-circular canal overcomes the above demerits. Thus a study on Pre-cast semi-circular canal structure was undertaken to make it economical as well as strong and durable. As pumps of variable capacity are available in Bangladesh, canal sizes are also varied and were designed for semi-circular condition. To fabricate canal segments for different sizes of pump, moulds both circular and semi-circular were constructed with steel sheet for 1’ thickness slab. Thus pre-cast canal segments were fabricated with different materials like ferro-cement, plain concrete and reinforced concrete. The proportion of cement, sand and khoa was 1:2:4. Pea khoa and dust were used here for thickness limitation. Wire nets were provided in ferro-cement and one suti G.I. wire were provided in reinforced concrete. The canal segments were cured by emerging in water. The strengths of canal segments were determined after 7 and 28 days curing by Compressive Testing Machine in the Laboratory. The costs were also estimated. The strength of pre-cast slabs were found to vary from 650 psi to 750 psi, 1000psi to 1100 psi, 1100 psi to 1200 psi for plain concrete, ferro-cement and reinforced concrete respectively for 7 days curing where as the strength were found to vary from 800 psi to 850 psi, 1150 psi to 1250 psi, 1300 psi to 1400 psi for plain concrete, ferro-cement and reinforced concrete respectively for 28 days curing. The strengths of ferro-cement and reinforced concrete were almost same but both were higher than that of plain concrete as concrete is weak in tension. So slabs must be reinforced with wire net or with reinforced bar. Considering the cost ferro-cement and reinforced concrete are costlier but only 10% to 20% more at different conditions.

69


Installing pre-cast semi-circular slab in the field, it was observed that it is simple to set in the field, acquisition of land is minimum and practically have no water loss. Overall it is a low cost technology for irrigation canal and can reduce production cost.

Keywords: Low cost irrigation, Technology, Canal segment, Production

Title: Improved potato storage facility for farm household

Author: Prof. Dr. Abutaher M. Ziauddin, Department of Farm Power and Machinery, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01711192664


Abstract

This project has started functioning from January 2012 with full financial support of SPGR, BARC to achieve the objective of developing a potato storage facilities at farm household so that the storage life of potato could be increased at least several months than that of traditional open storage. It has two objectives, namely ; a) to develop and test an improved evaporative cooled potato store for farm household ; and b) to identify the optimum storage design structure using data analysis and modeling. The design and construction of potato store including its housing structure have been completed. All the necessary equipment including data logger and software have been procured. These are ready for assembly. The potato loading and subsequent experimental data will be started in March 2013. The data will be recorded continuously by a data logger and a computer for at least next six months. It is expected that the optimum design for potato store for farm household will be obtained using the technique of simulation and modeling of the system.

Keywords: Potato, Storage, Design, Technology

Title: Remote controlled guti urea applicator

Author: Prof. Dr. Abutaher M. Ziauddin, Department of Farm Power and Machinery, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01711192664


Abstract

The application of guti urea requires 25-35% less urea and one round application per crop than that of traditional hand broadcasting method. On the other hand, yield of rice increases by 15-20 %. However, placement of guti urea below the soil surface is a laborious, back breaking work for

70



farmers. Furthermore, farmers has to walk hard across the muddy field many time which make them unwilling to work. With a view to solve the above difficulties and to provide more comfort to farmers, this research project has been initiated to develop a remote controlled guti urea applicator that could place guti urea efficiently. The necessary component of the device such as metering unit, the chassis, furrow opener and furrow closer have been designed and fabricated. The battery of required matching power and remote control mechanism has been selected. The first version of the device is now ready for testing. The test trial will be conducted in March-2013. The work progress is satisfactory and is on planned schedule. the device be validated through field trial will help reduce drudgery of the farmers/labourers, and overall cost of the operation. One student of B.Sc. Agricultural Engineering obtained a degree through this research work

Keywords: Guti Urea, Application technology, Remote control mechanism

Title: Feasibility study on the extraction and possible uses of bio-fibre

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Daulat Hussain, Department of Farm Power and Machinery, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01716411105


Abstract

Fibres are in great demand today not only for textile purpose, but also for diverse uses like paper making, cloth, rope, hard and soft board manufacture, insulation, bio-composite etc. Fermentation and mechanical extraction method were used to extract fibre from Dhaincha (Sesbania aculeata), Lady’s finger (Abelmoschus esculentus), Banana pseudo stem (Musa indica), Pineapple leaf (Ananas comosus) and Sisal leaf (Agave sisalana). Mechanical properties (tensile strength and percentage of elongation) were measured. Four type of treatments were used for identifying suitable fibre extraction technique, i) aerobic fermentation ii) anaerobic fermentation iii) fermentation with urea and iv) fermentation with CaO. Percent of fibre obtained was the highest (3.94%) in Lady’s finger among the five samples while percent of stick was the highest (63.81%) in Dhaincha than in Lady’s finger (24.84%). Urea treatment requires minimum time for fermentation of all the samples like Dhaincha, Lady’s finger, Banana pseudo stem, Pineapple leaf and Sisal leaf. At 15 days of fermentation higher percentage of fibre was obtained with urea treatment. With the increase of fermentation time, diameter of fibre decreased in all the treatments and as a result the tensile strength also decreased. The percentage elongation gradually decreased with the increasing of fermentation time for all treatments. The estimated production of fibre were 1900 kg/ha, 1817 kg/ha, 1459 kg/ha, 220 kg/ha and 197 kg/ha for Dhaincha, sisal leaf, pineapple leaf, lady’s finger and banana pseudo stem respectively. The extracted fibre can be used for making, rope, hard and soft board manufacture, insulation material and bio-composite etc. In Modhupur area cloths are being made from pineapple leaf. Farmers can earn good amount of money by selling pineapple leaves, banana pseudostem and

71


okra’s fibre. Cloths made from biofibres are soft, smooth, long lasting and there are no problem of using as cloths and other uses.

Keywords: Extraction, Feasibility, Fibres, Bio-compost

Title: Improvement of power tiller operated zero till drill for different crop establishment

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Daulat Hussain, Department of Farm Power and Machinery, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected] , Mobile-01716411105


Abstract

A power tiller operated 4-row zero till drill was developed by BAURES funded project during 2008-2010 for seeding & fertilizer application simultaneously. Mungbean, lentil, chickpea, rice & wheat was planted by this planter but precision planting and uniform seed dropping could not be maintained by this planter. Therefore this project was undertaken to improve the metering device. Inclined plate type metering device was developed to plant rice, wheat and maize. The planter was tested in the departmental soil bed to observe the uniformity of seed dropping. Rice, wheat & maize were sown by zero till drill. Seed dropping was found uniform. No seed damage was observed even for irregular shaped seed like rice. Maize was planted in the BAU farm by zero till drill & by conventional method. Cost of planting by zero till was found about 11% less than the conventional method. The field was not level enough and due to heavy rainfall and water logging in the undulated field the growth of maize was hampered and yield was negligible. For zero till drill & specially for maize soil should be leveled enough for better growth & yield.

Keywords: Power tiller, Crops, Seed , Zero till drill

Title: Water productivity of wheat and ground water level fluctuation pattern at BAU farm

Author: Prof. Dr. Mesbauddin Ahmed, Department of Irrigation and Water Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01731307969

Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP. 67

Abstract

Two field experiments were conducted at the Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) farm during the project period (2011 and 2012) in order to investigate the possible effects of irrigation and variety on wheat production. Both the experiments were laid out in a split-plot design and were replicated thrice. During land preparation and as top dressing recommended doses of fertilizers were used. Herbicide and insecticide were applied as and when necessary. The varieties for the first experiment were BARI Gam-21 and BARI Gam-24 and the same for the

72



second experiment were BARI Gam-25 and BARI Gam-26. The common irrigation treatments were: I1 - control, I2 - 17-21 days after sowing (DAS), I3 - (17-21 + 45-50) DAS and I4 - (17-21 + 45-50 + 75-80) DAS. Irrigation was applied on the basis of IW (Irrigation Water) and CPE (Cumulative Pan Evaporation) ratio. The effect of variety on plant height and harvest index was significant at 1% level of probability in all cases. The irrigation treatments also affected plant height, panicle length, numbers of spikelet per panicle, straw yield and biological yield at 1% level of probability. The study also revealed that increasing water stress reduced the plant height, number of effective tillers per hill, grain yield, straw yield and biological yield. The combined effect of treatment I4 and BARI Gam-24 produced 4.75 t/ha which was the highest among all the interactions studied. Hence, considering all the outputs from the irrigated wheat experiments, it can be inferred that the fields having silt loam soil (as appeared at BAU Farm) should be irrigated thrice for BARI Gam-24 to get optimum yield and the concerned farmers may be suggested accordingly. It was also revealed that though the highest grain yield (4.59 t/ha) was found in treatment I4, its water productivity was the lowest (841 kg/ha/cm or 8.41 kg/m3) of all the irrigation treatments. On the contrary, treatment I3 gave a yield of 4.55 t/ha which was very close to the highest one having the highest water productivity of 1409 kg/ha/cm (14.09 kg/m3), indicating less use of water. The maximum (13.00 m) and minimum (4.84 m) depths of groundwater levels were observed during early April and late October, respectively, indicating that suction mode pumps will not work at BAU farm during dry period.

Keywords: Productivity, Ground water, Effect

Title: Yield and water productivity to deficit irrigation imposed at different growth stages of hybrid maize

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Mojid, Department of Irrigation and Water Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh–2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01714418756


Abstract

This study was conducted in the experimental farm of Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) to demonstrate the experimental evidence of the effects of deficit irrigation on yield and water use efficiency (WUE)/water productivity of maize during December 2010 – May 2011 (year I) and January – May 2012 (year II). There were two factors: irrigation and variety. Irrigation had five treatments − I0: no irrigation (control), I1: irrigation at IW (irrigation water applied)/CPE (cumulative pan evaporation) = 0.4, I2: irrigation at IW/CPE = 0.6, I3: irrigation at IW/CPE = 0.8 and I4: irrigation at IW/CPE = 1.0. There were three maize varieties − V1: BARI hybrid maize 5 (BHM−5), V2: BARI hybrid maize 7 (BHM−7) and V3: Pacific 984. The experiment was laid out in a split-plot design with three replications. The irrigation treatments were employed in the main plots and the varieties were distributed in the sub-plots. Maize was grown under three irrigations applied at 43, 63 and 83 days after sowing (DAS) and with recommended fertilizer doses. In general, there was no significant (α = 0.05) effects of irrigation and maize variety on the grain yield of maize. In year I, treatment I 1 produced the highest grain

73


yield (9.18 t ha−1) and I0 produced the lowest yield (7.62 t ha−1). BHM−5 produced the highest grain yield (8.70 t ha−1) and BHM−7 produced the lowest yield (7.31 t ha−1). The interaction effect between irrigation and varieties exerted significant impact on grain yield. The interaction between I4 and V3 (I4V3) gave the best combination for the highest grain yield (9.31 t ha−1) and that between I0 and V2 (I0V2) gave the lowest yield (6.34 t ha−1). In year II, on the other hand, treatment I2 produced the highest grain yield (10.95 t ha−1) and I1 produced the lowest yield (8.71 t ha−1). Treatments I0 and I2 – I4 produced statistically similar grain yields. I1, compared to I2, produced significantly lower yield. BHM−5 (V1) produced the highest grain yield (10.94 t ha−1) and BHM−7 (V3) produced the lowest yield (9.10 t ha−1). The grain yield of BHM−7 was statistically similar to that of Pacific 984 but significantly lower than the yield of BHM−5. The treatment combination I0V1 produced the highest grain yield (13.53 t ha−1) and I1V2 produced the lowest yield (6.81 t ha−1). I0V3, I0V2, I1V2 and I3V3 produced similar grain yields; all other treatment combinations also produced similar but significantly higher yields. The water use efficiency (WUE) in year I differed significantly among the irrigation treatments but insignificantly among the varietal treatments. In case of interaction effects, WUE differed significantly. The maximum stressed treatment (Io) provided the highest WUE and the maximum irrigated treatment (I4) provided the lowest WUE. In year II, the maximum stressed treatment (Io) provided the highest WUE for grain production. The WUEs were similar both under I1 and I2, and under I3 and I4, but these WUEs were significantly lower than the WUE under control (I0). The variety V2 and V3 provided similar WUEs, but both were significantly lower than V1. In case of interaction effects, only I0V1, I0V2 and I0V3 treatment combinations produced significantly higher WUEs than the other treatment combinations, which provided similar WUEs.

Keywords: Productivity, Maize, Irrigation, Effects, Factor, Fertilizer

Title: Utilization and management of sugar mills effluent water for irrigation purposes to increase crop production

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Mojid, Department of Irrigation and Water Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh–2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01714418756


Abstract

During the second working year, soil samples from the experimental crop fields irrigated by sugar mills’ wastewater were collected at the North Bengal and Faridpur Sugar Mill sites. The samples were analyzed for their chemical properties. The results revealed that the chemical constituents in the sugar mills’ wastewater accumulated in the soil, the degree of which varied with the quantity of wastewater in irrigation. The accumulation of the chemical constituents, in general, was insignificant. Farmers’ training and demonstrations were conducted at both experimental sites jointly with the PI. The farmers practically observed the effect of wastewater on the growth of wheat and mustard. They also learned to blend wastewater. One master student of the project completed his thesis on ‘Properties of North Bengal sugar mill’s effluent water and its impact on soil properties’. Breakthrough data of a non-reactive solute (calcium chloride)

74


through four wastewater-irrigated soils of the field crop experiments were measured and analyzed for solute-transport parameters. Wastewater irrigation altered solute-transport.

Keywords: Wastewater, Sugar mill, Irrigation, Effects

Title: Livelihood improvement of prawn farmers, nurserers and hatchery operators of Noakhali region under DANIDA project ensuring seed quality

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Rafiqul Islam Sader, Department of Fisheries Biology and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01712015908, Bangladesh


Abstract

To develop a protocol for the production of quality broodstocks of freshwater prawn as like wild ones and assess their quality and production performance up to F2 generation the present study was carried out with eleven experiments within a timeframe between 01 September 2009 to 31 May 2012. A survey was conducted through questionnaires to know the production and livelihood status of prawn growers, nurserers, hatchery operators of Noakhali region under DANIDA project. Prawn hatcheries collected berried females from the Halda and the rivers of the Sunderbans where nurserers reared prawn PL up to juvenile in both pond and hapas. Polyculture of prawn with either tilapia or carp or both in ponds or dogis with commercial or farm made feed was practised. To develop a protocol for the production of quality broodstocks in ponds, 180 juveniles of Macrobrachium rosenbergii, collected from the Bulla River, Noakhali were stocked in each of 6 ponds of size 600 m2 (12 juveniles/40 m2) maintaining 1:2 male-female ratio at Southern Agro-Fisheries Ltd. (SAFAL), Subarnachar, Noakhali. A farm made feed named ‘Own formulated feed’ (OF) (protein 32%) was formulated for prawn brood development and its quality was compared with two other commercial prawn feeds- i) Quality shrimp feed (QF) (protein 26%) and ii) Mega shrimp feed (MF) (protein 37%). Each feed was provided in two replicated ponds during five months rearing period. Performance of prawns supplied with ‘OF’ was highest in terms of survival, production, induction of early gonadal maturation and total number of berried females occurred indicating suitability of ‘OF’ for prawn brood development over two other commercial feeds used. Breeding performance of berried females reared with ‘OF’, were compared with berried females collected from two other sources- i) the Halda river (wild) and ii) the gher (captive reared) at Upakul Freshwater Prawn Hatchery (UFWPH), Sonapur, Noakhali. Berried females reared with ‘OF’ were designated as ‘Own developed broods’ (OB) whereas those collected from the Halda River and gher were designated as ‘Halda broodstocks’ (HB) and ‘Gher broodstocks’ (GB). Relative fecundity, average hatching and PL conversion rate of HB (971.32, 46.64% and 23.10%) and OB (1081.81, 42.30% and 20.10%) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of GB (373.60, 20.23% and 12.86%) indicating the quality of OB as like as HB suggesting the suitability of the protocol and feed (OF) developed. Growth performance and survival of F1 progenies of three broodstock origin was compared in nursery phase for 56 days and in grow out phase for 240 days in earthen ponds.

75


Breeding performance F1 berried females of each source were compared. Conversion rate of F1

PL to juveniles of HB (64.94%) and OB (60.88%) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of GB (35.28%). F1 progeny of HB (703.25 kg/ha) and OB (689.40 kg/ha) exhibited significantly higher production than those of GB (284.09 kg/ha). Relative fecundity and hatching rate of F 1

berried females of HB (1140.62 and 49.54%) and OB (1125.23 and 50.00%) were significantly (P<0.05) higher than those of F1 berried females of GB (484.30, 23.09%). Growth performance and survival of F2 progenies of HB and OB origin was also compared in nursery phase for 56 days and in grow out phase for 240 days in earthen ponds. Breeding performance of F2 berried females of HB and OB were also compared at UFWPH. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in conversion rate of F2 PL up to juveniles of HB (85.79%) and OB (71.30%) in nursery phase. In grow out phase, production performance of F2 progeny of HB (450.17 kg/ha) and OB (425.35 kg/ha) exhibited no significant difference (P>0.05). However, production of F2

progenies of HB and OB was significantly (P<0.05) lower than those of F1 progenies of same origin indicating inbreeding depression. There was no significant (P>0.05) difference in relative fecundity of F2 berried females of HB (536.77) and F2 OB (546.00). Hatching rate of F2 berried females of HB (69.07%) was higher than that of F2 berried females of OB (57.17%), PL conversion rate of F2 HB (15.79%) was lower than that of F2 OB (41.60%). Genetic variation of three broodstocks and their F1 progenies was analysed using 11 enzymes (LDH, MDH, PGM, GPI, G3PDH, IDH, EST, AAT, ADH, G6PDH and ME). Five microsatellite loci (Mbr-1, Mbr-5, Mbr-7, Mbr-8 and Mbr-11) were also used to assess genetic variation of three broodstocks and their F1 and F2 progenies. Pairwise FST and genetic distance based on allozyme electrophoresis data revealed that HB and OB were closely related as both of them were of wild origin and GB was not so closely with any of HB or OB indicating that GB was not of wild origin rather hatchery origin. Use of such captive reared hatchery originated broodstocks might cause high genetic erosion resulting inbreeding and lower output for aquaculture. On the other hand, microsatellite study revealed that genetic variability decreases in the progenies (F1 and F2) indicating the occurrence of inbreeding. Thus, the present study suggests that freshwater prawn hatchery managers should produce and maintain their own broodstocks by rearing wild juveniles with ‘OF’ in ponds as the same quality as wild ones which will ultimately help in conservation of wild populations of freshwater prawn of the country.

Keywords: Freshwater, Prawn hatcheries, Livelihood, DANIDA

Title: Production of genetically male tilapia by identification of YY supermales using microsatellite DNA markers

Author: Dr. Mohd. Golam Quader Khan, Associate Professor, Department of Fisheries Biology and Genetics, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Email: [email protected], Mobile-01752388962, Bangladesh

Source: BAU Research proceedings, Vol.23, 2013, PP. 71-72

76


Abstract

Monosex (male) Nile tilapia Oreochromis niloticus is highly preferable for commercial production system to control unwanted reproduction by females and to obtain higher growth of even sized male tilapia leading to good profit. The technique of producing all male using androgen hormone (particularly 17-α-methyl-testosterone) is being widely used in Bangladesh. However, the use of hormone in the direct food chain is prohibited in many countries of the world because of the adverse physiological effects. Very recently, sex-linked markers have been identified for Nile tilapia which can assist selection of YY males in tilapia. The current study aims at the production of genetically male Nile tilapia using such markers. Initially hormonal sex reversal of mixed sex has been performed. Estrogen hormone treatment has been conducted to convert sex of XY males to ‘XY females’ (neofemales). The swim up fry have been fed with the hormone mixed diet from the very first day of weaning (immediately after absorption of yolk sac) for a period of four weeks. The trial was conducted in The Mini Fish Hatchery Complex, Faculty of Fisheries, Bangladesh Agricultural University. Fry with yolk-sac were collected from the tilapia hatchery (Agro3). Three hormonal doses were used for the feminization of tilapia, i.e., Treatment 1 (DES hormone 100mg/kg feed), Treatment 2 (DES hormone 200mg/kg feed), Treatment 3 (DES hormone 300mg/kg feed) and control (no hormonal feed). There were three replications for each of these three treatments. 300 fry were released in each aquarium. The fry were fed 4 times a day. The hormonal treatment was conducted for a period of 1 month. The fry were released in cisterns after the completion of the hormonal trial. Normal feed (Starter 2, Saudi Bangla Fish Feed Ltd) is being provided now to grow them up to sexual maturity. Part of them will be gonad squashed to observe the sex reversal to carry out further experiments.

Keywords: Tilapia, Production, Fish feed, DNA Marker

Title: Landing centres and fish Fauna of Mymensingh town

Author: Prof. Dr. Kirtunia Juran Chandra, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh–2202, E-mail: [email protected] , Mobile-01716918679, Bangladesh


Abstract

An investigation was carried out on fish landing centers, availability of fish fauna and marketing system during the period from October 2009 to September 2011 in sixteen landing centers and markets of Mymensingh town. Among a total of 122 species of fishes available of which, 113 finfish; 85 freshwater, 14 exotic and 14 marine; 7 were prawn /shrimps and 2 mud crab and tortoise. The most abundant freshwater fish species were Catla catla, Labeo rohita, Clarias batrachus, Cirrhinus cirrhosus, Channa punctatus and Hilsa ilisha. Common marine fishes were Lates calcarifer, Euthynnus affinis and Mugil cephalus and shellfish, Macrobrachium rosenbergii and Penaeus monodon. Carps and other fish, eg. catfish, tilapia, small indigenous fish, prawn and shrimp including marine fish could be seen in the landing centers and fish markets in Mymensingh town. Trains, buses, trucks and pickups were used as transport of fish to

77


the landing centers from outside to Mymensingh. Most of the fish (84.6 %) were brought from outside the district like Netrokona, Jamalpur, Gazipur and Kishoreganj. Main source of the fishes were different ponds, haors, beels and rivers of Mymensingh. The market chain from farmers to consumers encompassed mainly primary, secondary and retail markets and a large number of people were involved in fish marketing channel as bepari, aratdar, paiker and retailer. Paiker and bepari bought fish from producers and sold fish to retailer through aratdar. It was estimated that total marketing cost of fish for aratdar was Tk. 1.33, paiker Tk. 6.05 and retailer Tk. 1.83 per kg of fish. The highest marketing costs (Tk. 6.05) were for paiker because they had paid higher aratdari commission and higher transportation cost. Average net profit were for paiker at peak period Tk. 3.32 and lean period Tk. 2.90, for aratdars peak period Tk. 1.63 and lean period Tk. 1.59 and for retailers peak period Tk. 5.23 and lean period Tk. 5.34 per kg of fish. Ilish (Hilsa ilisha) had high demand to consumers and available in the market with approximate price of Tk.250 to Tk.300 per piece. Traders and consumers faced a number of problems such as lack of input in proper time, lack of capital, high interest rate of credit, lack of fishery equipment, price fluctuation and low price, political instability, lack of physical facility, inadequate storage facility etc. Establishment of ice factory, improvement of fish transport facilities, introduction of fish quality control measures were suggested to improve the fish marketing in the study area.

Keywords: Fish Fauna, Marketing system, Profit, Landing centres

Title: Study on impact of Aqua-drugs and chemicals on fish/shrimp health and production

Author: Prof. Dr. Gias Uddin Ahmed, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01712564528 Bangladesh


Abstract

An investigation was carried out to know the aqua drugs used and their effect on health and production of shrimp in the coastal belt of Bangladesh. Twenty seven types of aqua drugs were recorded from Khulna region and 17 types from Cox’sBazar regions. Bleaching powder, potash and lion brand aqua solution had positive impact against white spot diseases in most of the investigated areas. However, basudin, Oxytetracycline and methylene blue had no effect on the recovery of white spot disease investigated areas. Geolite gold, aqua Z poder, gasonex plus, megageo and ammonil had positive impact on gas removal in shrimp ghers of all the investigated areas. Aqua nurish, megavit, aquavost, aqua vit, rabbit C had positive impact as growth promoter in the studied areas. Lion brand aqua solution, megavit, aqua boost, aqua vit and GPC 8 had positive impact as disinfectants recorded from the investigated areas. Shrimp production was 100 kg each in Chakaria and Cox’sBazar region, 80 kg in Paikgacha, 150 kg in Bagerhat and 200 kg per acre in Assasuni, Khulna. In Assasuni farmers used more aqua drugs. Thus aqua drugs played some role in production of shrimp in the coastal belt of Bangladesh. Some shrimp of

78

Cox’sBazar regions were yellowish, brownish or darker than normal appearance. Clinically health condition of shrimp of Khulna regions was better than those of Cox’sBazar regions.

Keywords: Aqua-drugs, Spot diseases, Impact

Title: Testing of local herbal products for Fish/Shrimp disease prevention and control

Author: Prof. Dr. Gias Uddin Ahmed, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01712564528 Bangladesh


Abstract

Experiments were conducted on selection of medicinal plant products, preparation of extracts (crude, semi-crude and fine), selection and collection of fish species, isolation of bacteria and use of medicinal plant extracts on disease recovery of fishes. Thirteen medicinal plant products, six crude extracts, two semi-crude extracts and four fine extracts were collected and prepared to observe their effect on disease recovery of fish. Diseased shing were collected from Talha Soha Fish Farm, Muktagacha and bacteria were isolated from the fishes up to genus. An experiment was conducted to observe disease recovery of sarpunti and rui treated with neem seed oil, kalojira seed oil, neem leaf extract and mehagoni seed extract for 28 days. Neem seed oil extracts exhibited satisfactory recovery in third week with 6 ml/kg feed dose. Disease fish treated with kalojira seed oil showed the best performance in respect of disease and wound recovery. Better recovery were found in third week at a dose of 4 ml/kg feed and 6 ml/kg feed. However, fishes treated with neem leaf extract and mehagoni seed oil extract showed poor performance in respect of disease recovery of fishes. Among doses 6 ml/kg feed exhibited the best performance followed by 4 ml/kg feed.

Keywords: Herbal products, Disease, Fish, Performance

Title: Fish health and environmental issues of emerging pangas (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) farming in Bangladesh

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Ali Reza Faruk, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymemnsingh-2202,E-mail:[email protected],Mobile-01711456119, Bangladesh


Abstract

Pangasius (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) farming is one of the fastest growing types of aquaculture in the world. It is primarily farmed in Asia. Presently, it is one of the most important

79


species for aquaculture of Bangladesh and its farming is heading towards intensification. The fish is locally know as ‘pangas’ or ‘Thai pangas’. With the rapid expansation and intesification of farming, environmental and disease problems have become a great concern in recent years. In order to address these issues, questionnaire interview and focus group discussion (FGD) were used with selected pangas farmers in Valuka, Muktagasa and Trisal upazilla of Mymensingh district. Data from 40 farmers were analyzed and 5 FGD sessions were conducted. Positive and negative aspects of environmental integrity were compared. Potential environmental impacts of pangas farming were assessed using certain parameters like land use pattern, water quality management and eutrophication, pond waste management, use of chemicals and antibiotics, and escape of fish. It was found that conversion of agricultural land and beels into pangas pond were remarkable which leads to the quick loss of agricultural land that reduces rice production. The unutilized feed portion accumulated in ponds produced huge pond bottom waste and caused water quality deterioration. Eutrophication was found as a common problem along with discharge of highly nutrient rich water in the paddy field. Management of pond bottom waste was found poor though it has some good use in vegetable production in the pond dyke. Indiscriminate use of chemicals and antibiotics caused an adverse impact on the environment and human health. Health and disease problem was found as a big issue in pangas farming. The most prevalent disease problem as reported by the farmers was anal protrusion and reddening around mouth and eyes. Other clinical signs included ventral reddening, superficial cotton wool like lesion and white spot over body surface were also reported but with lower incidence.

Keywords: Environment, Fish health, Pangas, Impact

Title: Study on fish disease and health management in rural aquaculture

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Ali Reza Faruk, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymemnsingh-2202,E-mail:[email protected],Mobile-01711456119, Bangladesh


Abstract

Lack of information exists on fish disease and health management in rural aquaculture. In order to understand fish health problem and to develop effective health management protocol for rural fish farmers, questionnaire interview and participatory rural appraisal tools like focus group discussion (FGD) were conducted with selected farmers in Mymensingh, Pabna and Bogra district. A total 90 rural farmers were interviewed and 9 FGD sessions were conducted. In addition, histopathological studies were carried out to examine disease status of sampled fishes. Most of the respondents practiced carp and pangas polyculture and they had disease problems in their ponds. Prevalence of fish disease varied with species and locations. The most prevalent diseases as reported by the respondents were pop eye (57.78%), ventral reddening (55.55%), tail and fin rot (48.89), hemorrhagic lesion over the body surface (45.56%), dropsy (40%), gill rot (40%), white spot (40%) and epizootic ulcerative syndrome or EUS (33.33%). According to farmers opinion most susceptible species to disease was silver carp, Hypophthalmichthys molitrix (57.78%); followed by mrigal, Cirrhinus cirrhosus (50%); catla, Catla catla (47.78%); sarputi,

80


Barbodes gonionotus (47.78%); rui, Labio rohita (42.22%) and pangas, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (42.22%). Higher mortality was found in pangas (53.56%). Clinically pangas, koi and sarputi were found severely affected. Histopathologically, all the organs of sampled fishes were found affected to some extent while pangas and mrigal had severe pathology. Most of the farmers used some treatment measures against disease problems. This study also identified fish health management problems in rural pond aquaculture. All the infectious diseases reported by the farmers could not be confirmed by laboratory study. Further studies focus on the identification and characterization of pathogens, find out effective disease treatment and development of farmers oriented fish health management packages.

Keywords: Disease, Management, Treatment, Fish health

Title: Local and global implications for use of catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) pond sediments in fodder grass production in peri-urban areas of Mymensingh, Bangladesh

Author: Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mahfujul Haque, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, Email: [email protected], Mobile-01712006293, Bangladesh


Abstract

Farmed fish and milk production have grown rapidly in much of Asia in recent decades to meet the needs of rapidly growing and urbanising populations. Catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) production in Mymensingh, Bangladesh is intensive, resulting in huge sediment deposit in the pond due to regular supplies of artificial feeds. The removal and disposal of nutrient-rich sediments creates pollution of receiving water bodies both locally and through inefficient use of energy intensive inputs, globally. Regular removal of pond sediment is time consuming and incurs high labour costs. Conversely, Mymensingh is an important region for dairying lacking of quality green fodder linked to the cost of N fertilization (urea). The use of N fertilizers is cost-intensive; the manufacture and distribution of such oil-based urea is a major part of the energy cost of food production and is highly sensitive to volatility in energy prices. In this context, the objective of the present study was to examine the potential for using catfish pond sediments to substitute for conventional N fertilizers used for green fodder grass production to support dairying. An experiment was conducted in Pangasius farm in Dhanikhola village under Trisal Upazila focusing the effects of Pangasius pond sediment on the growth and production of fodder grass (Brachiaria mutica). According to soil analysis, the major soil nutrients such as nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) were very high in Pangasius pond sediment compared to virgin soil. The total nitrogen content of the sediment was 0.30% which was double than that in the sediment of carp polyculture pond, and traditional compost (0.4-0.5%) made of animal waste and crop residues. The organic carbon in Pangasius pond sediment (3.15±0.04) was more than double than that of virgin soil (1.31±0.1). The fodder was cultivated with various levels of Pangasius pond sediment in a completely randomized designed on-farm experiment in 6 treatments, each with three replications. The size of each replication

81


plot was 25 m2 (5m × 5m) which was organized in rice-field closed to the Pangasius farm. The nutrient doses of the treatments 1-6 were of control (only virgin soil), 100% inorganic N, 75% inorganic N + 25% sediment N, 50% inorganic N + 50% sediment N, 25% inorganic N + 75% sediment N, and 100% sediment N, respectively. Following transplantation of cutting (25 cm in length), the fodder was harvested at the pre-flowering stage (45 days after transplantation). The results of the study showed that the highest average length was found 85.57 cm in T6 at first cutting where 100% N was supplied from pond sediment. After first cutting a mechanized floating irrigation system was developed to irrigate Pangasius pond sediment into the plot which increased the nutrient context of soil and resulting in higher growth (108.49 cm) of grass in T 6. Accordingly the yield of fodder grass in an individual cutting was high ranging from 4.52 -6.20 t/ha. The yield of fodder grass was almost similar for the corresponding treatments in three cutting periods. The harvested grass was instantly purchased by the local dairy farm owners showing their positive interest to cultivation of folder grass.

Keywords: Catfish, Fodder grass, Production

Title: Water and soil quality parameters of shrimp and prawn farms in Southwest Bangladesh

Author: Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mahfujul Haque , Department of Aquaculture ,Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile- Mobile-01712006293, Bangladesh


Abstract

Sustaining Ethical Aquaculture Trade (SEAT) Project (www.seatglobal.eu and www.seatbau.net) has been conducting a comprehensive investigation with various issues to improve sustainability of seafood farming in Bangladesh which is traded to developed countries. Out of different environmental aspects, water and soil quality parameters play a vital role in sustainable aquaculture production as well as product quality. Shrimp and prawn together is the leading exportable seafood products of Bangladesh contributing to a significant amount of foreign currency earnings from export market, which is often negatively criticized locally and globally. In this context, an investigation was carried out to assess the impacts of shrimp and prawn farming on water and soil quality parameters in the farming areas of Southwest Bangladesh. This study was carried out at Dumuria and Paickgacha Upazila of Khulna district during two seasons in 2012, such as in dry and wet season. Data were collected from 9 shrimp and prawn farms and they were categorized in three different groups, viz. 3 prawn farms, 3 shrimp & prawn farms, and 3 shrimp farms according to the existing farming practices. The water quality parameters including temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, alkalinity, salinity, total phosphorous, total hardness, chloride and carbon dioxide were measured by a portable advanced HACH water quality testing kit (Model FF-1A Cat.No.2430-02),both in dry and wet seasons. It was found that most of the water quality parameters were within the suitable range for aquaculture in both dry and wet seasons in all prawn, shrimp & prawn and shrimp farms. However, the ammonia content was 0.009 to 0.45mg/l and 0.2 to 0.6mg/l in shrimp farm which was higher than prawn farm with 0.029 to 0.007mg/l and 0.001 to 0.007mg/l in both dry and wet

82

http://www.seatbau.net/

http://www.seatglobal.eu/


season, respectively. The higher ammonia content in shrimp farm might be due to the decomposition of aquatic weeds, organic matter, uneaten feed, fecal matters, etc. which may often create hazardous conditions for shrimps. The nitrite concentration was always observed zero ((0mg/l)) in all systems in both seasons. There were different types of relationships found correlated between the water quality parameters in all the production systems both in dry and wet seasons. The value of soil pH ranged from 6.9 to 8.12 and 6.9 to 7.6 in shrimp and prawn farm and the organic carbon content ranged from 0.7 to 0.8% and 0.6 to 0.8%, respectively. Phosphorous content was found negatively correlated with pH and organic carbon content of soil. From the present study, it could be argued that ammonia may be the main problem for shrimp farms causing mortality and disease outbreaks, which need to be carefully and critically, addressed from research and development initiatives towards sustainable seafood production.

Keywords: Fish farms, Quality parameters, Sustainable, Production

Title: Diversification of carp polyculture integrating snail (Viviparus sp.) and shing (Heteropneustes sp.) culture in cage in ponds of Adivasi households

Author: Prof. Dr. Mohammad Mahfujul Haque, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Email:[email protected], Mobile-01712006293, Bangladesh


Abstract

Aquaculture production in Bangladesh has got a considerable momentum in terms of fish production, nutritional supplement and livelihood improvement of a wide range of people. However, the people of poor socio-economic classes in remote places in the country are not getting the potential benefits of aquaculture. This is partly due to monotonous pond based fish culture that undermines optimum pond productivity and diversification of other non-piscine based aquaculture practices. Therefore, a farmer participatory research project (2011-2014) funded by KGF (Krishi Gobeshona Foundation), at its initial stage, assessed the potential to diversity carp polyculture in Adivasi households’ ponds. A number of participatory community appraisal (PCA) tools such as focus group discussion, well-being ranking, seasonality analysis, and food consumption matrix were used to analyze the agrarian context of Adivasi households in a community namely, Andharupara in Nalitabari, Sherpur. Adivasi people are traditionally poor and disadvantaged due to their cultural practices, who mainly depend on wild food collections however, because of the scarcity of wild food sources they started adopting agricultural practices. Among different agricultural activities, some of Adivasi households adopted small-scale pond farming in the recent years. In the studied community, out of 68 Adivasi households, 95% were poor without any richer households. However, about 20% of households were characterized by having small and medium ponds (mostly perennial) with some formal experience in pond aquaculture. Seasonally during the rainy season (April – August), Adivasi households do not have the intensity of farm or non-farm activities. In terms of access to food fish, except Pangasius, other fishes were reported high priced and less available. Particularly, indigenous catfish such as shing (Heteropneustes fossilis) and magur (Clarias batrachus) were

83


high priced and least available. Meat items from own farm and market origin were reported highly expensive. On the other hand, the wild meat animals were reported least available which are traditionally highly tasty to them. Considering this context, the follow-on research is focusing to develop aquaculture diversification in Adivasi households’ ponds combining carp polyculture, shing in cage and snail in pond to feed shing to produce various food items using limited aquatic resources.

Keywords: Aquaculture, Productivity, Diversify , Livelihood

Title: Assessment of water quality and production potentials of pond units used for polyculture of tilapia and silver carp at BAU, Mymensingh

Author: Prof. Dr. Md. Abdul Wahab, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail:[email protected], Mobile-01715099156, Bangladesh


Abstract

A 120 days trial during July to October 2012 was carried out at the Fisheries Field Laboratory, BAU, Mymensingh with the aim of understanding water quality and production potentials of Tilapia and Silver carp in fertilized and fed systems. The fishes were stocked at a rate of 80 per decimal (Tilapia) and 10 per decimal (Silver Carp) in 12 ponds in a completely randomized design. Treatment (T1) was fertilization alone (Urea 60 kgha-1 and TSP 35 kgha-1 per week), T2

fertilization plus supplementary feeding (with commercial tilapia feed at half the amount applied to commercial production), and T3 feeding alone at the full amount used in commercial production (initially 20% down to 5% of body weight). Air temperature was 28-32 oC, water temperature 30-34.8 oC, transparency 19-65 cm, pH 6.79-10.86, dissolved oxygen 1.75-8.48 mgl-

1, total alkalinity 8-152 mgl-1, phosphate-phosphorus 0.08-3.0 mgl-1, nitrate-nitrogen 0.00-0.51 mgl-1, nitrite-nitrogen 0.00-0.26 mgl-1, ammonia-nitrogen 0.14-1.57 mgl-1, TDS 25.6-109 mgl-1, conductivity 55-203 μScm-1 and chlorophyll-a 2-250 µgl-1in three systems. Except transparency, TDS, and conductivity, no other parameter significantly varied among treatments. The stocking weight was the same and no difference in survival (%) was found. The mean harvesting weight of tilapia was significantly higher in T2 (fertilizers plus 50% fed ponds) and T3 (only fed ponds), while, in silver carp, there is no difference among treatments. FCR for tilapia was significantly different between T2 and T3. The net productions of tilapia were considerably higher in T2 and T3

as compared with T1, whereas, silver carp did not vary among treatments. The combined net production of two species was significantly higher in T2 (4,227 kgha-1) and T3 (3,845 kgha-1) than in T1 (1,567 kgha-1). From environmental, biomass production and economic points of view, fertilized and fed system was better than either only fertilized and only fed systems.

Keywords: Water quality, Production, Tilapia and silver carp

84


Title: An assessment of brood availability and problems faced by the freshwater prawn hatcheries



Abstract

A survey was carried out during August to October 2011 to understand the sources of brood-stock freshwater prawn, golda (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) along with performance of brooder in hatcheries, problems faced in breeding and the potentials of brood development in 15 freshwater prawn hatcheries in the country. A random selection and survey of hatcheries under three production capacities e.g. large 33% (>6.1 million PL), medium 54% (3.1 to 6. million PL) and small 13% (<3.0 million PL) were done under 80% private, 7% GO (Governmental) and 13% NGOs (Non governmental Organization) sectors in greater Khulna, Chittagong and Northwest regions. This survey revealed that, none of the hatcheries has their own brood development programme. The hatcheries mostly depend on the natural supply of prawn brood stock. The quality of brood stock is often not found at satisfactory level. The private hatcheries are mostly similar in design and structure and none of the hatcheries reached to their production capacity due to lack of availability of required number of brood prawn. Inadequate technical manpower in most private and NGO hatcheries were identified as a major impediment in golda seed production. In the marketing channel, the PL traders mostly control the golda seed markets that affect the quality of seeds. There is a crying need of supply of quality brood golda for sustenance of the freshwater prawn farming system in the country.

Keywords: Hatcheries, freshwater, Profit, Farming system.

Title: Reproductive biology of nutrient-rich small fish mola in hapa system



Abstract

An experiment was conducted over ten months in 2012 on productive biology of Mola (Amblypharyngodon mola) fish through rearing in fine meshed hapa system at the BAU Fisheries Field Laboratory, Mymensingh. Some water quality parameters, gonadal maturation, morphology, recruitment, growth, survival of offspring and mortality of brood of mola were

85



studied in confined area in hapa set in the pond to create a breeding friendly ecosystem. There were six hapas: three are 20 m2 and three are 2 m2 with stocking densities of 100g and 250g wt. (avg. 1-2g , respectively. The commercial feed was supplied to the brood mola in hapas, those bred on several occasions in the same season indicating their prolific breeding characteristics. The presence of mature broodfish, smaller size fry and juvenile were found in the same hapa over the seasons. The female mola in most cases was found to disappear after breeding. Some were in weak health and sick condition which indicated that within a short period after breeding the female brooder die. However, all the fishes were not matured at a time and the small fish become matured within 2-3 months after stocking, The new females recruited as brooder and the process of maturation, breeding and disappearance of brood thus continued. Although, the hapa based system has given some ideas on the breeding biology of mola, not all mola bred in the other hapas at the same time. The observation of the mortality of the female broodfish of mola within short period after breeding has confirmed the speculation that the female broodfish of mola die after breeding.

Keywords: Hapa system, Small fish mola, Reproductive

Title: Length-weight relationships and reproductive physiology of endangered ‘kala pabda’ (Ompok pabo) from the ‘haor’ area of Mohonganj, Netrokona

Author: Prof. Dr. Harunur Rashid, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01924429971, Bangladesh


Abstract

The endangered pabo catfish (Ompok pabo), from the Sylhet basin in the North-East Bangladesh, was studied for determining length-weight relationships, gonado-somatic index (GSI) and stages of oocytes and testicular germ cells during the post-spawning season, from September to December 2010. Length-weight relationships and condition factor were determined from the pooled data collected over the study period. The b value ranged from 2.291879 to 3.112763. The generalized Length-weight relationship fitted to the pooled data of O. pabo was BT=0.016294SL2.700422 and condition factor was 1.052945. Values of the length-weight relationships of O. pabo from Netrakona and Sylhet region were more or less similar but the growth pattern indicated isometric and allometric growth, respectively. The highest average GSI value in female was observed in September (4.06) and lowest in November (1.55). For male it was highest in December (0.76) and the lowest in October (0.43). GSI values suggested spent condition of ovary and testes during the study period. Histological observation of ovary and testes of O. pabo was done during the post-spawning season. Oogonia (O) perinucleolar oocyte (PNO), previtellogenic oocyte (PVO) and yolk granule (YG) stage were observed in developing ovary during the successive months (October to December). It was observed that oocytes did not develop synchronously. The testicular germ cell stages of spermatocytes (SC), spermatids (ST) and spermatozoa (SZ) were gradually evident in the maturing testes. Empty lumen of tubules

86


(LU) in testes samples during October indicates spent phase just of peak breeding season. The GSI values in female were in agreement with that of histological observations of ovary indicated by yolk granule formation in December and increased GSI values in December from lowest in November. Again, gradual increase in GSI value of male is in agreement with the histological observations of testicular tissues, indicated by filling-up of empty LU with ST and SZ with the progression of time. The current study, investigated during the post-spawning period, will provided important information on spent and maturing female and male which will ultimately help better understanding reproductive physiology of O. pabo towards designing conservation plans and captive maturation.

Keywords: Kala pabda, Haor, Length weight.

Title: Study of reproductive endocrinology of mud eel Monopterus cuchia for artificial propagation

Author: Prof. Dr. Harunur Rashid, Department of Fisheries Management Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01924429971, Bangladesh


Abstract

In order to understand different aspects of reproductive biology of endangered mud eel Monopterus cuchia gonado-somatic index (GSI), gonadal maturity stages, fecundity, ova diameter and secondary sexual characters were studied for a period for one year. Fish samples were collected from haor and beel areas of Mymensingh, Netrokona and Rangamati districts. The highest GSI of 6.002±1.672% was observed in mid May and lowest of 0.232±0.015% in September. This indicated that the peak breeding season of mud eel was from late April to early May. Monthly study of oogenesis revealed that the mature stages of oocytes (premature and mature oocytes) were found from April to June samples of ovary, indicating the spawning season of M. cuchia. Fecundity was measured for a period from mid March to mid May and ranged between 132 (body weight 240g) to 461 (body weight 380g). The highest fecundity was observed in mid April and the lowest was in mid May. The most distinct feature to separate the both sexes was shape of their genital papilla. The female papilla became rounded and swollen; on the other hand the male genital papilla was sunken and elongated, observed in April-May. To get a clear understanding about the exact trigger of inducing reproduction of this fish during season immunohistochemistry (IHC) of cuchia brain IHC trial which revealed that sGnRH-ir (immunoreactive) fibers were observed in the ventral olfactory bulb of the mud eel brain, and running to the preoptic area. Induced breeding trial of captive cuchia collected from two geographical locations (Netrokona and Rangamati) is underway. Since cuchia is summer-monsoon spawner (April - July), its induced breeding trial manipulating the environment (creating thick layer of aquatic weed in breeding hapa) and different inducing agents (e.g., PG, HCG, GnRHs, etc) are ongoing. This study provides the first detailed information about oogenesis of M. cuchia from the Sylhet basin of Bangladesh. It is expected that the information

87


of this study can potentially be used for bringing a new high priced fish into aquaculture for supporting export earnings of the country in future.

Keywords: GSI, Reproductive biology, Fish.

Title: Induced breeding of great snakehead (gajar, Channa marulius) using molecular techniques

Author: Dr. Md. Shahjahan, Associate Professor, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, , E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01718590903,Bangladesh


Abstract

In order to know the reproductive biology of an endangered fish species, great snakehead (Channa marulius) from the Sylhet basin, an investigation was conducted during July 2011 to June 2012 at the Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh. The investigation included observation of month-wise gonado-somatic index (GSI), identification of stages of oocytes and testicular germ cells, determination of the peak breeding season and furnish guideline for conservation and proper management of this fish. Fish samples were collected from Mohongonj, Netrokona and haor areas of Sylhet division (parts of Sylhet basin). Length-weight data were collected for GSI study and gonad samples were fixed into 10% formalin. Standard histology protocol was followed to identify stages of ovary and testis. Monthly GSI values of female were 0.42, 0.071, 0.25, 0.023, 0.018, 0.03, 0.034, 0.046 and 0.047 in July, August, October, November, January, February, March, May and June; respectively. For male, GSI values were 0.056, 0.037, 0.03, 0.018, 0.02, 0.018, 0.028, 0.043 and 0.041 in July, October, December, January, February, March, April, May and June; respectively. The highest GSI value for female was 0.42 in July and the lowest was 0.018 in January and for male it was identified highest to 0.056 in July and the lowest 0.018 in January. Histological observation of ovary observed presence of oogonia (OG), early perinuclear oocyte (EPNO), late perinuclear oocyte (LPNO), yolk vesicle (YV), yolk granule (YG), premature (PM) and mature (M) stages of oocytes. The mature stages of oocytes (PM and M) were observed in June to July samples i.e., during late monsoon. In winter season (December to January), immature germ cells i.e., undeveloped oocyte (UO), perinuclear oocyte (PNO) oocytes were found indicating spent and resting phase. Later in March-May, developing oocytes i.e., OG and PNO were found. In June samples, mostly PM and some M oocytes were observed. In the July samples, most of the oocytes were M stage oocytes indicating breeding season of C. marulius. Testicular germ cells studied only in the month of July, were with high proportions of mature germ cells spermatid (SPT) and spermatozoa (SPZ) and fewer spermatocytes (SPC). Coincidence of maturity in both ovary and testis during July indicates that C. marulius peak breeding season is in July. High GSI value in both female and male snakehead during July also supports this assumption. It is expected that the preliminary information generated on the reproductive biology of C. marulius can serve as the base for further research on this fish with an aim to establishing the package of induced breeding and to manage and conserve from endangered condition. This study provides

88


the first detailed information about reproductive biology of C. marulius from the Sylhet basin of Bangladesh.

Keywords: Breeding, Fish species, GSI

Title: Stock assessment of tank goby Glossogobius giuris and its management strategies in Bangladesh

Author: Prof. Dr. Zoarder Faruque Ahmed, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail:[email protected],Mobile-0171269016, Bangladesh


Abstract

With a view to provide tools for sustainable fisheries management of an important small indigenous fish species Glossogobius giuris in various freshwater habitats in Bangladesh, size relationships, age and growth, spawning season and frequency, and fecundity were studied collecting individuals from the river Old Brahmaputra using samples of 12 consecutive months from January to December. Among the studied fish, 644 were male and 520 were female, and the sex ratio statistically did not differ from the expected 1:1 ratio (χ2 test, P>0.05). The standard length (SL) of male ranged from 21 to 118 mm and the body weight (BW) ranged from 0.2 to 26 g, and SL and BW of female ranged from 28 to 120 mm and 0.40 to 29.7 g respectively. The growth parameters obtained using ELEFAN I were: SL∞ = 123.5 mm, K = 0.91 year-1, C = 0 and WP = 0, and a Rn value of 0.158 for male, and SL∞ = 128. 5 mm, K = 0.55 year-1, C = 0 and WP = 0, and a Rn value of 0.164 for female. Huxley’s logarithmic equivalence to length-weight relationship demonstrated the growth pattern of both male and female negative allometric. The von Bertalanffy growth model in terms of weight provided equations for male as BW t = 31.86[1-exp{-0.91(t+0.005)}]3 and for female as BWt = 28.63[1-exp{-0.57 (t+0.007)}]3. The approximate longevity and growth performance of male and female tank goby in the river Old Brahmaputra were 3.30 and 5.45 years, and 4.14 and 3.96 respectively. Gonadosomatic indices, and macroscopic appearance and histological examination of the ovaries concluded that the spawning season of G. giuris were from February to December. Absence of postovulatory follicles and hydrated eggs with other stages of oocytes, and presence of one prominent mode of eggs in the mature ovaries indicated that the fish was a single spawner, and its spawning frequency was synchronous type. The minimum SL at maturity in present study was 47 mm, while the mean SL at first reproduction was 58.96 mm for females. The relationship between fecundity and SL was F = 0.0179SL2.98, and the relationship between fecundity and BW was F = 716.53 BW - 1676.6.

Keywords: Small indigenous fish species, Management strategies.

Title: Stock assessment and management of spotted snakehead Channa punctata in Bangladesh

89


Author: Prof. Dr. Zoarder Faruque Ahmed, Department of Fisheries Management, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh-2202, E-mail:[email protected],Mobile-0171269016, Bangladesh


Abstract

A study was taken on the spotted snakehead Channa punctata, a small indigenous fish species from the haor waters of Mohanganj upazilla in Netrokona district of Bangladesh to determine its age and growth, two central life-history parameters for sustainable management. Sampling of fish was done each month having 100 individuals over a calendar year. Neither scale nor otolith showed growth cessation as annulus and daily rings. Histograms of standard length data of each sample decomposed into pseudo-modes by Bhattacharya method were arranged vertically according to collection dates, and it could not trace any apparent cohort over the year in case of both male and female. As a result, multiple sample method provided no age and size data to analyze growth equations. Ultimately, estimation of age and growth of C. punctata was made by direct fit of length frequency data both to standard and to modified von Bertalanffy growth models with ELEFAN I procedure. Powell-Wetherall procedure calculated 208.43 mm as a seed value for asymptotic standard length, and 2.39 for Z/K for males; and 173.52 mm as a seed value for asymptotic standard length and 1.52 for Z/K for females. The direct fitting of growth equation by ELEFAN method estimated 217.88 mm asymptotic standard length for male population and 186.60 mm for female population. The growth co-efficient K was obtained as 1.10 year-1 for male and 1.35 year-1 for female. The relationships of the pooled data of standard length and body weight for both sexes were BW = 0.00003SL2.94 for male and BW = 0.00003SL2.97 for female. The curves of both male and female showed no seasonal growth oscillation. The von Bertalanffy growth equations in terms of weight for male and female were BWt = 220.65[1- exp{-1.11(t+0.01)}]3, and BWt =164.25 [1- exp {-1.35 (t + 0.04)}]3, respectively. The growth performance index and the maximum life span of C. panctata were 5.678 and 2.60 years for male, and 6.45 and 2.50 years for female

Keywords: Channa punctata, Management, Stock, Haor.

Title: PCR-based method to detect pathogenic microorganisms in exportable shrimp and fish products of Bangladesh

Author: Dr. Md. Shaheed Reza, Department of Fisheries Technology, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymenginsh-2202, Bangladesh, E-mail: [email protected], Mobile-01913719233, Bangladesh


Abstract

Since Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) represents a rapid procedure with both high sensitivity and specificity for immediate detection and identification of pathogenic bacteria from different

90



food materials to ensure food safety, attempts were made to utilize PCR-based method to detect pathogenic Salmonella spp. and Escherichia coli in seafood principally from shrimp and prawn products ready to be exported. Initially, PCR conditions were standardize d using purified bacterial DNA. First Salmonella spp. and E. coli bacteria were collected from sewage water, cultured in selective media then transferred to broth culture, and then a rapid boil method was tested to isolate DNA from bacterial cells which was used for subsequent PCR analysis. Out of six pair of primers designed for two species of bacteria (3 pair each for Salmonella and E. coli), primerpair5´-GTGAAATTATCGCCACGTTCGGGCAA-3´and5´-TCATCGCACCGTCAAAGGAACC-3´ amplifying a DNA fragment of 284 bp of invA gene in Salmonella and primer pair 5´-GCTGGGCAGCAAACTGATAACTCTC-3´ and 5´ CATCAAGC TGTTTGTTCGTCCGCCG 3´ amplifying 750 bp of afa gene in E. coli were successful. Primers used in the PCR assay were highly specific for individual organisms and did not show cross-reactivity with heterologous organisms. In conclusion, the PCR-based technique provides a sensitive and specific method for detection of Salmonella spp. and E. coli.

Keywords: PCR, Technology, Shrimp, Pathogenic bacteria.

91

Documents

BAU Research Proceedings Volume 23, 2013