January 2020

The potential use of Lentinus edodes to manage and control water hyacinth in Zimbabwe

The rapid expansion and reproduction of certain plant species represents one of the biggest problems in aquatic environments, ranging from eutrophication to the limited availability of water for human consumption. Among these plants is water hyacinth (Eichhornia crassipes), a herbaceous hydrophyte often branded the world’s worst aquatic weed due to its invasive aggression, negative impact on aquatic environments,...

Author(s): Nompumelelo Sibanda, Oziniel Ruzvidzo, Cuthbert J. Zvidzai, Arnold B. Mashingaidze, Tshegofatso B. Dikobe, Mutsa M. Takundwa, David T. Kawadza, Lebogang M. Katata-Seru, Sibonani S. Mlambo and Chrispen Murungweni

January 2020

Selection of appropriate substrate for production of oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus)

Mushroom production is an economically viable biotechnology process for conversion of various agro-industrial wastes into food. Mushroom, a fruiting body of macrofungi has been valued throughout the world as either food or medicine for more than three thousand years ago. The mushroom grows on a vast number of substrate and environment. Substrate compromises different agro-industrial residues that possess varied property...

Author(s): Yohannes Besufekad, Abraham Mekonnen, Bikila Girma, Robel Daniel, Getahun Tassema,  Jale Melkamu, Malesu Asefa, Tsehaynesh Fikiru and Lalise Denboba  

January 2020

Assessment of yield loss due to northern leaf blight in five maize varieties grown in Tanzania

Field experiments were conducted in the Agricultural Research Institute, Uyole, using five susceptible maize varieties during 2013 and 2014 growing seasons. The varieties were used to determine yield losses due to northern leaf blight disease in Mbeya Region of Tanzania. The trials were laid out in two blocks of E. turcicum inoculated and Mancozeb treatment arranged in randomized complete block design in three...

Author(s): Onwunali, M. R. O. and Mabagala, R. B.⊃