UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI RESEARCH COMPENDIUM Sci/Prof. A.M... · crops on the fadama include cowpea, guna (cow melon) and rosalle (a variety of spinach). There is little or no published

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UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI RESEARCH COMPENDIUM

Research Title Soil water balance of cowpea grown on residual soil moisture.

Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

1Kundiri, A. M., 1Alhassan, A. B. and 1Chiroma, A. M.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University

of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)

[email protected] Tel: +2348027080280; +2348096419750

Publication Status (Published/unpublished)

Published

Source of publication (Journal, Periodical etc, vol. page Nos)

Faculty of Agriculture Seminar Series. 1: 47-51. Published by Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Year of Publication 2000

Source of funding Self

Abstract A common practice on fadama lands in Northeast Nigeria is to grow, with minimum tillage, short duration upland crops on residual soil moisture. Preference is usually given to growing cowpea than to other recession crops because of its higher yield under the low input farming practice on the fadama. During the rainy season, the fadama soils are inundated by the flood water from rivers and this water recedes rapidly at the end of the rainy season. This period coincides with the time when recession crops are grown on the fadama. The residual soil moisture in the fadama serves as the only source of water for these crops during the dry season. The currently grown recession crops on the fadama include cowpea, guna (cow melon) and rosalle (a variety of spinach). There is little or no published information on the water requirement of crops grown on residual soil moisture on the fadama lands in Nigeria. A knowledge of this relationship is seen to be invaluable in good management of residual soil moisture for cultivation of short duration food crops species on the fadama. This paper aims at studying the water balance of cowpea grown on fadama using residual soil moisture.

Research Impacts The research provides a valuable information on the management of residual soil moisture for enhanced productivity of crops grown on fadama lands in Northeast Nigeria.

mailto:[email protected]

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Research Title Effect of different management practices on selected soil fertility parameters in a sandy soil in Northeast Nigeria.


1Chiroma, A. M.., 1Kwari, J. D. and 1Alhassan, A. B.





Published


J. Sust. Agric. Environ. 4(2): 264-274. Published by Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike.



Abstract Composite surface (0-15 cm) and sub-surface (15-30 cm) soil samples were collected in three replicates of six treatments comprising five soil fertility management practices on randomly selected unfertilized farms and one adjoining virgin land as a check around Tatukuturi village in Yobe State, Northeast Nigeria. The management practices are continuous sole millet and continuous sole groundnut each for ten years, continuous millet-groundnut-millet and groundnut-millet-groundnut each for five years, and bush fallow for eight years. The soils were analysed for selected soil fertility parameters. The contents of organic carbon in surface soils under bush fallow and virgin land were 0.48 and 0.57%, respectively, while total nitrogen was 0.023% under bush fallow and virgin land. The total nitrogen and organic carbon contents were significantly (p<0.05) higher than under continuous cropping. Organic carbon content under continuous cropping ranged from 0.013% (continuous groundnut) to 0.015% (groundnut-millet-groundnut). Organic carbon and total N in sub-surface soils showed similar trends. Available P in the soil was not significantly affected by the management practices. ECEC in surface soils under bush fallow and virgin land were 2.50 and 2.82 cmol/kg soil, respectively, and significantly (p<0.05) higher than under continuous cropping which were in the range of 1.84 (continuous sole groundnut) to 2.07 cmol/kg soil (millet-groundnut-millet). Generally, continuous cropping significantly decreased soil fertility.

Research Impacts The study reveals that for low external input farming systems, manipulation of the cropping systems through proper rotation and crop selection offer a viable option for improving the productivity of the fragile soils.


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Research Title Revisiting the traditional pit planting technique for rehabilitation of degraded lands in the arid and semi-arid regions of Africa: Current trends and challenges.


1Chiroma, A. M., 1Yakubu, H. and 1Sandabe, M. K.





Published


Nig. J. Trop. Agric. 4: 163-171. Published by School of Agriculture, Federal University of Technology, Yola.



Abstract Low and variable rainfall is perhaps the greatest constraint to crop production in the arid and semi-arid regions inhabited by some 700 million people. Most of these areas experience occasional intense rainfall that generates enormous amounts of runoff that can be captured in the field and used for raising crops. This practice of concentrating runoff water right on the field for the purpose of raising crops popularly known as rain water harvesting has been shown to contribute to food security in many dryland areas by assuring that some harvest is made even in a very low rainfall year. One such technique that is gaining widespread attention in some dryland parts of Africa is the traditional pit planting technique. This ancient technique of rain water harvesting which has undergone several modifications over years has made it possible for many degraded lands to be brought back to productive use in countries like Burkina Faso, Niger, Mali and Tanzania. This paper reports the results of an experiment on pit planting conducted at the teaching and research farm of the University of Maiduguri and that of few others in the African sub-continent. The problems and/or challenges associated with this practice of rain water harvesting are equally discussed.

Research Impacts Information generated from the review offers the prospect for restoring degraded lands back to productivity through the practice of rainwater harvesting using the pit planting technique.


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Research Title Response of onion to application of farm yard manure and NPK

in semi-arid savanna soil of Northeastern Nigeria. J. Arid Agric.

14: 95-100. Published by Faculty of Agriculture, University of

Maiduguri, Nigeria. Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

1Chiroma, A. M., 1Rayar, A. J. and 1Alhassan, A. B.





Published


J. Arid Agric. 14: 95-100. Published by Faculty of Agriculture, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.


Source of funding Borno State Government

Abstract A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of farmyard manure (FYM) and NPK applied alone and in combination on the growth, yield and uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na by onion (Allium cepa L.) in sandy loam (Typic Ustipsamment) soil of Northeast Nigeria. Six treatments including a control i.e. no FYM, no NPK (T1), FYM 10 tha-1 (T2), FYM 20 tha-1 (T3), FYM 10 tha-1 + N100 P25 K25 kg ha-1 (T4), FYM 20 tha-1 + N100 P25 K25 kg ha-1 (T5), and N100 P25 K25 kg ha-1 (T6). At 72 days after transplanting (DAT) height of onion plants significantly (p<0.01) increased due to application of FYM and NPK either alone or in combination over the control. However, no discernible differences were noted among various treatments at 32 DAT. Application of FYM with or without NPK significantly (p<0.01) increased the yield of onion bulbs. Relative to the control, application of FYM at the rate of 10 and 20 tha-1 increased the yield of onion bulbs by 31 and 48% respectively. The corresponding yield increases for the combined application with NPK were 130 and 140%. However, increasing the rate of FYM from 10 to 20 tha-1 solely or together with NPK did not seem to have any appreciable effect on yields of onion bulbs, shoot and total biomass production. In general, uptake of N, P, K, Ca, Mg and Na by onion bulbs and shoot significantly (p<0.01) increased by application of FYM and NPK over the control. Apparently, application of FYM at 10 tha-1 along with N100 P25 K25 kg ha-1 would be highly beneficial to onion


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production in the semi-arid soil of Borno State.

Research Impacts The study establishes the threshold farmyard manure and mineral fertilizer rates for onion production under the edapho-climatic conditions of Maiduguri, Nigeria.

Research Title Effects of Land Configuration and Wood-shavings Mulch on

Pore Size Distribution and Water Retention Properties of an

Ustipsamment in Northeast Nigeria


A.M. Chiroma 1, O.A. Folorunso1 & A.B. Alhassan1





Published


Nigerian Journal of Soil Research Vol.5: 14-22 https://www.ajol.info/index.php/njser/article/view/28386


Source of funding University of Maiduguri Abstract Practices that alter the pore size distribution in favour of water

retention micropores can increase the capacity of a coarse-textured soil to retain moisture. A four-year field experiment was initiated in1999 to study the effect of some land configuration practices with or without wood-shavings mulch on pore size distribution and water retention properties of a sandy loam soil in northeast Nigeria. The treatment combinations were: flat-bed to serve as control (FB); open-ridge (OR); tied-ridge (TR); FB + mulch (FBM); OR + Mulch (ORM) and TR + mulch (TRM), each replicated four times in a randomized block design with sorghum grown each year under rain-fed condition. Wood-shavings at the rate of 5t/ha was used in 1999 but this was increased to 10t/ha in subsequent years to ensure adequate soil coverage. At the end of the trial in 2002, pore size distribution and water retention properties from each of 0-7.5, 7.5-15 and 15-30cm depths were examined. The results indicate that after four years of annual application of wood-shavings mulch, the capillary pore space (diameter <36µm) in the top 0-7.5cm layer of the FBM, ORM and TRM treatments were 22.2, 15.4 and 11.7% higher, respectively, than the average for the bare (FB, OR, and TR) treatments. The corresponding increases in the capillary pore space due to the three mulch treatments relative to the bare treatments in the sub-surface 7.5-


https://www.ajol.info/index.php/njser/article/view/28386

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15cm layer were 12.1, 15.8 and 18.8%, respectively. On the other hand, the proportion of total pore space comprised by macro pore space (diameter >36µm) was little affected by tillage and residue management at all the depths investigated. Water content at saturation (SWC), water content at field capacity (FC), water content at wilting point (WP) and available water holding capacity (AWHC) were all higher in the mulch (FBM, ORM TRM) treatments than in the bare (FB, OR, TR) treatments in both 0-7.5 and 7.5-15cm soil layers. Comparing the three mulch treatments, FBM had the highest values of SWC, FC, WP and AWHC in the top 0-7.5cm layer and the least in the 7.5-15cm depth. The lower water retention exhibited by FBM treatment relative to the ORM and TRM treatments at the 7.5-15cm depth could be due to residue incorporation during construction of collapsed ridges and/or dikes in the ORM and TRM treatments. Among the bare treatments, SWC tended to be highest in the FB and least in the TR at both 0-7.5 and 7.5-15cm depths whereas the FC, WP and AWHC tended to be higher in ridged (OR and TR) treatments than in the FB treatment. In general, the soil water retention curves of FBM, ORM and TRM are always higher than the retention curves for the bare treatments across the range of measured pressure potentials. Key words: Land configuration, wood-shavings, water retention, pore size, conservation, residue.

Research Impacts Results from the study indicate that management practices that alter pore size distribution in favour of water retention micro-pores offers the potential for increasing the capacity of a coarse textured soil to retain moisture.

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Research Title Physical properties of a sandy loam soil in Borno State of Nigeria as affected by tillage and stubble management.


Chiroma, A. M., Alhassan, A. B. and Bababe, B.





Published





Abstract The effects of tillage and residue management practices on soil physical properties of a sandy loam in northeast Nigeria were studied after two years of cropping. When tillage systems with or without residue were compared, there was a significant (p<0.05) difference in the measured bulk density, amount of dispersible clay and the infiltration rate characteristics of the soil. After only two years of residue addition the initial infiltration rate for the first five minutes and the structural stability and organic carbon contents in the top 10 cm soil profile depth of the residue treated plots were all higher compared with the bare plots. Irrespective of the tillage system. Dense network of root channels and increased macro flora and micro flora activity in the surface layer of the no-till plus residue plots contributed to the reduction of the soil bulk density and the improvement of structural stability

Research Impacts The study highlights the prospects for improving the productivity of impoverished coarse textured soils through residue management practices that involves residue incorporation.


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Research Title Compaction effects on water retention properties of some soils in Borno State, Nigeria.


1Folorunso, O. A.,1Alhassan, A. B., 1Chiroma. A. M. and 1Joseph, E.





Published





Abstract The effects of soil compaction on water retention properties of selected soils of North eastern Nigeria were investigated. The selected soils were of different textures (sandy loam, sandy clay and clay. Soil water characteristics and available water holding capacity were determined. At any given matric potential, compaction enhanced the water retention characteristics of the sandy loam and sandy clay soils. Beneficial effect of compaction on available water holding capacity of the sandy loam soil was observed. On the other hand, compaction resulted in a general decrease in available water holding capacity of the sandy clay and clay soils. Although compaction appeared to enhance the water retention properties of the sandy loam soil, verification through long term field trials will be most desirable in as much as compaction may increase runoff and soil erosion.

Research Impacts The study reveals that certain minimum level of compaction offers prospects for expanding water holding capacity of coarse textured soils.


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Research Title Response of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to sodium chloride salinity in a semi-arid area of Northeastern Nigeria.


1Folorunso, O. A., 1Chiroma, A. M. and 2Dauda, A.


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme, Nigeria. Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Environtropica. 1(2): 96-103. Available online at http//:www.oauife.edu.ng/research



Abstract The effect of NaCl salinity on the yield components, plant nutrient compositions and water use efficiency of groundnut under field conditions was investigated. Three salinity levels: 0.75, 3.06 and 5.76 dS/m designated as control (SO), (S1) and (S2), respectively were imposed with four replications. Nodulation was reduced by 15 and 69 percent in S1 and S2 treatments, respectively. Although kernel yield was not significantly affected by salinity, haulm yield was reduced by 23 and 41 percent at S1 and S2 treatment levels, respectively. Insensitivity of kernel yield to treatment effect was partly explained by higher pod damage by termites under the control treatment (55%) compared to the S1 and S2 treatments, which suffered 11 and 7 percent damage, respectively. Salinity appreciably increased Cl concentration in most plant parts. Kernel water use efficiency in the S1

and S2 treatments was reduced by 21 and 45 percent respectively. The results of the study have shown, perhaps for the first time, that effective control of certain pests, especially soil pests, may be an incidental benefit of high salinity.

Research Impacts The study reveals perhaps for the first time that higher NaCl salinity under certain conditions may prove effective in the control of insect pests.


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Research Title Influence of sodium chloride salinity on soil properties and early growth of groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.).


1Folorunso, O. A., 1Chiroma, A. M. and 2Dauda, A.


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Bauchi State Agricultural Development Programme, Nigeria. Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Environtropica. 2(1&2): 91-99. Available online at http//:www.oauife.edu.ng/research



Abstract The effect of NaCl salinity on soil properties and growth of groundnut was investigated. Treatments consisted of three levels of salinity having exchangeable sodium percentage (ESP) of 7.90, 12.81 and 19.97 respectively with corresponding saturation extract having electrical conductivity (ECe) of 0.75, 3.06 and 5.76 dS m-1. Sodium chloride salinity resulted in reduction of steady state infiltration rate and cumulative water intake by 47.76% and 39.69% respectively. Seedling emergence of groundnut was delayed and apparently reduced by NaCl salinity. Plant height, leaf relative water content and leaf area index were reduced by 27-44% and 37-41% respectively.

Research Impacts The study reveals that higher NaCl salinity portends the risk of affecting water intake characteristics of coarse textured soils.


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Research Title Comparison of total microorganisms and N2-fixing bacterial populations in the rhizosphere of maize varieties in cultivated and fallow soils of South Western Nigeria.


1Yakubu, H., 2Odu, C. T. I. and 1Chiroma, A. M.


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Department of Agronomy, University of Ibadan, Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published





Abstract Total microbial populations, rhizobacterial counts, and the numbers of N2-fixing bacteria in the rhizosphere of six maize varieties namely Shagari, Killer, TZPB-Mokwa, DMR-SR, TZSR-Acra and TZPB-UI, and the influence of fallow on the rhizosphere of microorganisms were investigated in greenhouse pot experiment. The maize varieties were harvested 6 weeks after sowing and their rhizosphere total microbial populations, rhizobacteria and N2-fixing bacteria in the samples. The plates were incubated at 28oC for four days after which the microorganisms were estimated. The maize varieties differed significantly (P=0.05) in rhizosphere populations. The total population ranged from 28.40 x 10 -8 to 11.30 x 10-8 g-1 soil. The population was found in Killer, followed by Shagari, and the lowest in TZSR-Acra. The N2-fixing bacterial populations ranged from 14.25 x 10-8 to 5.01 x 10-8 g-1. soil with the highest obtained in Shagari, followed by Killer and the lowest found in TZPB-Acra. The rhizosphere populations were generally higher in plants grown in the fallow soil than in the cultivated soil though only significantly different in Killer and Shagari varieties.

Research Impacts The study identified local maize varieties with prospects for enhancing N2-fixation through the support of beneficial microbial populations in their rhizosphere.


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Research Title Effects of tillage and stubble management on root growth and water use of millet grown on a sandy loam soil.


1Chiroma, A. M., 1Folorunso, O. A. and 1Kundiri, A. M.





Published





Abstract Millet root growth and water use were studied after two years of tillage and stubble management. Treatments included no-till-no-residue (To), tilled-residue incorporated (T1), tilled residue surface applied (T2), no-till residue surface applied (T3), and tilled-no residue (T4), replicated four times in a randomized complete block design. The surface layers under the three stubble management system remained wet resulting in better root growth. Of these three stubble management systems, only T1 improved millet water use which significantly increased yields, whereas T2 and T3 systems did not increase crop water use though there were significant increases in yields. Millet root growth, water use and yields under T4 were higher relative to the control (To). Thus systems that combine tillage with stubble management (particularly T1 and T2) could be adopted on the sandy loam soils for better water conservation in order to increase the productivity of the millet crop.

Research Impacts The study highlights the prospects for increasing millet water productivity by employing residue management practices that promotes denser rooting.


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Research Title Properties and classification of soils of Kajimaram oasis of Northeast Nigeria.


1Alhassan, A. B., 1Chiroma, A. M. and 1Kundiri, A. M.



[email protected] +2348038334378; +2348036981952


Published


Intern. J. Agric. Biol. 8: 256-261. Published by Friends Science Publishers, Pakistan. Available online at http//:www.fspublishers.org



Abstract Soils of Kajimaram oasis, northeast Nigeria 10o 30’ and 12o 00’E and 13o 00’ and 13o 30’N were studied to understand their genesis, properties, classification and management. The soil morphological, physical and chemical properties were examined. These soils occupy the lower slope portion of the landscape where radial flow of ground-water converges and discharges. The soils have high organic carbon content throughout the profiles and molic epipedons. The soil texture consists of largely peat, clay-loam, clay and occasionally, silt-clay over fine sandy-loam. The most striking feature of the particle size distribution is the high silt content. Generally, the exchangeable bases of the soils are relatively high and the pH of aged samples is extremely low. According to the US Soil Taxonomy, the soils in Kajimaram oasis are classified as fine loamy, Isothermic, Terric Sulfisaprists; Fine loamy, Isorthermic, Sulfic Hydraquents; Clayey, Isothermic, Haplic Sulfaquents; and Clayey, Isorthermic,bTypic Calciaquolls.

Research Impacts The study identifies the major constraints to development of Kajimaram oasis as continued reduction in rainfall amounts and the potential negative impacts associated with changes in the soil and hydrologic conditions.


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Research Title Soil Water Conservation, Growth, Yield and Water Use

Efficiency of Sorghum as Affected by Land Configuration

and Wood-Shavings Mulch in Semi-Arid Northeast Nigeria Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first






Published


Expt. Agric. 42: 199-216. Published by Cambridge University Press, United Kingdom. Available online at doi: 10.1017/S0014479705003376


Source of funding University of Maiduguri

Abstract Water is perhaps the most important single factor that limits crop production in the semi-arid northeast of Nigeria. A four-year field experiment was therefore initiated in 1999 to evaluate the influence of land configuration practices with or without wood-shavings mulch on water conservation, yield and water use efficiency (WUE) of sorghum. The experimental treatments consisted of flat-bed (FB), open ridging (OR), tied ridging (TR), FB + mulch (FBM), OR + mulch (ORM), and TR + mulch (TRM). Ridge heights were 15 to 20 cm and furrows were left open (for OR and ORM) or tied (for TR and TRM). Wood-shavings mulch was used at the rate of 5 t ha−1 in 1999, but this was increased to 10 t ha−1 in subsequent years to ensure adequate soil coverage. Differences in soil water storage at various sampling dates were significant only in some cases in each year, but trends were towards greater soil water storage in the mulched treatments than in the non-mulched treatments, irrespective of tillage method. Growth parameters (plant height and leaf area index) indicated significant differences between treatments on only some measurement dates in each year. Sorghum water use varied significantly between years and treatments. Seasonal water use was greater with FBM, ORM and TRM than with the FB treatment in all cropping seasons. Averaged over the four-year period, mean increases


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in grain yield relative to the FB treatment were 16 % for OR, 25 % for TR, 77 % for FBM, 50 % for ORM and 57 % for TRM. Pooled across the experimental years, the WUE (ET) of FB, OR, TR, FBM, ORM and TRM were 1.95, 2.12, 2.13, 2.74, 2.36 and 2.48 kg ha−1 mm−1 respectively. The corresponding WUE(R) values for these treatments were 1.26, 1.46, 1.56, 2.22, 1.88 and 1.97 kg ha−1 mm−1 respectively. It is concluded that combining the practice of flat-bed cultivation with mulching may eliminate the need for ridging in increasing the productivity of sorghum grain in semi-arid northeast Nigeria.

Research Impacts The study reveals that under the climatic conditions of northeast Nigeria, prospect exist for improving sorghum productivity through a combination of residue management and/or ridge tillage that prove effective in increasing water conservation.

Research Title The Effects of Land Configuration and Wood-Shavings Mulch

on the Properties of a Sandy Loam Soil in Northeast Nigeria. 1.

Changes in Chemical Properties Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first


Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University of

Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Tropicultura. 24(3): 129-134. Published by AGRIS, CABI, SESAME and DOAJ, Belgium. Available online at http://www.bib.fsagx.ac.be/tropicultura



Abstract In the savanna region of Nigeria, the search continues for practices that will improve the productivity of the fragile soils characterized by low organic matter and plant nutrients, poor structure and very high permeability. A 4-year (1999-2002) field experiment was conducted to determine the effects of land configuration and wood-shavings mulch on soil chemical properties under rainfed sorghum. The treatments were Flat Bed (FB as control), Open-ridge (OR), Tied-ridge (TR,) Flat bed with wood-shavings mulch (FBM), Open-ridge with wood-shaving mulch (ORM) and Tied-ridge with wood-shavings mulch (TRM). Wood-shavings at the rate of 5 t/ha were used in 1999 but the rate was increased to 10 t/ha during subsequent years to ensure adequate soil coverage. Soil samples from 0.075 m depth were obtained at the end of the third


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(2001) and fourth (2002) cropping seasons and analysed for pH, organic carbon (OC), total nitrogen (TN), available P (AP), exchangeable acidity, exchangeable K+, Ca++ Mg++ and Na+. The results indicate that over the 4-year study period, the topsoil in all the treatments acidified but the rate of acidification was much faster in bare treatments (FB, OR and TR) than in the mulched treatments (FBM, ORM and TRM), irrespective of tillage methods. In 2002; OC, TN and AP in the top 0-0.075 m layer of the wood-shavings amended soil were 24-29, 15-23 and 92-112% higher, respectively, than in the unamended control. OC in this soil layer correlated with TN (r= 0.98**) and AP (r= 0.97**). Similarly, the three bare treatments experienced a rapid loss in exchangeable K+, Ca++ Mg++ and Na+ between 1999 and 2002 but the reduction was much greater in OR and TR treatments compared to the FB treatment. FBM, ORM and TRM treatments significantly improved the topsoil fertility with respect to exchangeable K+, Ca++ and Mg++ content. This was attributed to the release of these exchangeable cations from the decomposing organic mulch. These results demonstrate the potential of combining ridge tillage with residue mulch in improving the fertility status of the coarse textured soils in the savanna region of northeast Nigeria.

Research Impacts The study reveals that no-tillage or ridge tillage farming with adequate retention of wood-shavings mulch on the soil surface is beneficial in maintaining a high level of soil fertility and slowed down the rate of acidification.

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Research Title The Effects of Land Configuration and Wood-Shavings Mulch

on the Properties of a Sandy Loam Soil in Northeast Nigeria. 2.

Changes in Physical Properties Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first



Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Tropicultura. 24(1): 33-38. Published by AGRIS, CABI, SESAME and DOAJ, Belgium. Available online at http://www.bib.fsagx.ac.be/tropicultura



Abstract Mulching and ridge tillage are proven technologies for improving soil productivity in semi-arid regions. Yet data quantifying the combined influences of these practices are limited. Our objectives were to determine the changes in selected physical properties of a sandy loam after 4-years of annual tillage and wood-shavings mulching. The tillage and wood-shavings treatments consisted of: Flat-bed (FB), Open ridge (OR), Tied-ridge (TR), FBM, ORM and TRM were same as FB, OR and TR, respectively except that wood-shavings at a rate of 10 t/ha were surface applied ≈ 2 weeks after sowing each year to serve as both a mulch and an organic amendment. At the end of the trial in 2002, bulk density, penetration resistance, total porosity and soil water content from each of 0-0.075, 0.075-0.15 and 0.15-0.30 m depths were determined. Composite samples from the surface (0.075 and 0.075-0.15 m) layers from 3 replicates of each treatment were also collected for the determination of wet aggregate stability and from 0-0.15 m and 0.15-0.30 m layers for determination of saturated hydraulic conductivity (Ksat). After 4 years of annual tillage and addition of woodshavings, soil bulk density and penetration resistance were consistently lower and total porosity higher in the FBM, ORM and TRM treatments than in the FB, OR and TR treatments. Penetration resistance in all treatments was strongly related to soil water content. A 'hoe pan' was established below 0.15 m depth beneath the furrows of the ridged treatments. This could be attributed to human traffic during field operations and ponding of water, which occurred in the furrows following heavy rains. Wet aggregate stability estimated as the proportion of aggregates of size >



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0.25 mm (macro-aggregates) in the 0-0.15 m layer were significantly (P< 0.05) higher under FBM, ORM and TRM than under FB, OR or TR treatments. Ksat was not influenced by either tillage or wood-shavings treatments but were higher for the mulched plots than for the bare treatments in both soil layers.

Research Impacts The study demonstrates the importance of combining land configuration practices with organic solid waste management such as wood-shavings for improving soil physical properties and sorghum yields.

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Research Title Growth, nutrient composition and straw yield of sorghum as affected by land configuration and wood-chips mulch on a sandy loam soil in Northeast Nigeria.


1Chiroma, A. M., 2Alhassan, A. B. and 1Yakubu, H.





Published


Intern. J. Agric. Biol. 8(6): 770-773. Available online at http//:www.fspublishers.org



Abstract Six land configuration and wood-chips mulch treatments were

evaluated from 1999 - 2002 on a sandy loam soil, northeast

Nigeria for their effects on growth, leaf nutrient composition and

straw yield of sorghum. Treatments evaluated include: flat-bed

(FB), open ridge (OR), tied ridge (TR), FB + mulch (FBM), OR

+ mulch (ORM) and TR + much (TRM). Early plant growth as

measured by leaf number plant-1 and stem diameter were not

significantly influenced by treatments in any given year but with

advancement in growth, the mulched (FBM, ORM & TRM)

treatments showed better growth than their bare (FB, OR & TR)

counterparts. Sorghum leaf N, P, K, Ca and Mg contents were all

higher in the mulched than in the bare treatments irrespective of

tillage method. Averaged across the four experimental years

(1999 - 2002) mean increases in straw yield relative to the FB

treatment were 9.6% for OR, 16% for TR, 56% for FBM, 39%

for ORM and 41% for TRM. The OR and TR treatments slightly

increased straw yield in years with normal rainfall (1999, 2001 &

2002) but decreased straw yield in 2000, the year with poor

rainfall distribution. It is concluded that under the edapho-

climatic conditions of Maiduguri in northeast Nigeria, substantial

improvement in the growth and straw yield of sorghum can be

obtained when adequate amounts of woodchips are applied to the

surface of either a flat bed or ridge tilled soil with little/no risk of

crop failure.

Key Words: Land configuration; Wood-chips; Mulch; Ridging;


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Sorghum Research Impacts The study reveals that combining the practices of ridge tillage and

wood-shavings mulch results in better growth and yield of sorghum due to spectacular improvement in utilization of soil nutrients.

Research Title Screening of sorghum varieties for salt tolerance in a sandy loam soil of Borno State, Nigeria.


1Yakubu, H., 1Usman., H. and 1Chiroma, A. M.





Published


Nig. J. Expt. Agric. Appl. Biol. 7(1): 49-54. Published in Nigeria by Beth-Bekka Academic Publishers Ltd



Abstract Background: Sorghum is produced mainly in the semi-arid regions, where soil salinity problem is on the increase. This calls for investigations on the effects of the soil salinity on sorghum varieties. Methods: A pot experiment with five sorghum varieties (Yarwasha, Warware-bashi, BES, KSV and Cide-rijimba) and five salinity levels (2.67, 5.28, 7.30, 8.20 and 9.37 dS/m) designated as S1, S2, S3, S4 and S5, respectively) in three replications, were conducted in a sandy loam soil of the University of Maiduguri, Maiduguri, Nigeria, to assess the effects of sodium chloride (NaCl) salinization on the germination, growth, dry matter yield and nutrient uptake of sorghum. Results: The results of the study showed that the S5 treatment level reduced germination count by 72% and plant height by 70%. In addition, there was 89% and 84% reduction in shoot and dry matter yields, respectively. The concentration of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P) and potassium (K) and calcium plus magnesium (Ca + Mg) in the plant tissues were reduced by 62, 58, 64 and 56%, respectively, due to the S5 treatment. The uptake of sodium (Na+) and chloride (Cl-) ions was increased significantly (p<0.05). the sorghum varieties differed significantly in all the parameters tested (p<0.05). the Yarwasha genotype had the highest germination count, growth rate, dry matter yield and Ca + Mg content, while the KSV variety had the highest amount of N, K, Na and Cl. The highest P content was recorded in the BES variety of sorghum. Conclusion: The study suggests that the Yarwasha variety of sorghum


21

is the most salt-tolerant variety in this region of Nigeria.

Research Impacts The study ranked the sorghum varieties commonly grown in Maiduguri and its environs according to their sensitivity to salinity and found the Yarwasha variety as the most tolerant of all the varieties screened.

Research Title Concentration of NaCl as It Affects Emergence, Early Growth,

and Nutrient Composition of Amaranthus Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

A. M. Chiroma1, A. Abubakar1 & A. M. Saddiq2.


Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology,

Yola, Nigeria

Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


International Journal of Vegetable Science. 13(3): 65-74. Published by The Haworth Press USA. Available online at http://ijvs.haworthpress.com doi:10.1300/J512v13n03_02



Abstract Amaranthus (Amaranthus tricolor L.) is cultivated in semi-arid parts of northern Nigeria where problems of drought and soil salinity are present. Information is lacking on how the plant responds to concentrations of salinity. The effect of NaCl salinity on emergence, early growth and plant nutrient concentrations of amaranthus was evaluated outdoors in a pot experiment, under a protective structure. Four salinity levels: 0.0, 5.08, 8.83, and 13.54 dS·m were imposed with three replications. Time to emergence was delayed by up to 5 and 7 days at medium (ECe = 8.83 dS·m) and high (ECe = 13.54 dS·m) salinity levels, respectively, relative to the control. An increase in salinity levels resulted in reduction of plant height, leaf area, fresh and dry shoot weights and root weights. Salt concentration had both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on shoot and root nutrient concentrations. Increases in salinity to ECe = ≥5.08 dS·m resulted in an increase in the shoot content of P, K, Ca, Na, and Cl and decreased those of N and Mg. The trend in changes in root nutrient content due to NaCl stress was similar to that of the shoot. Reductions in growth of plants receiving salt relative to the controls could be attributed to possible disruption of metabolic processes from unbalanced absorption, and possibly utilization of essential plant nutrients. Results need to be validated under field conditions.

Research Impacts The results revealed that NaCl salinity had both stimulatory and inhibitory effects on shoot and root nutrient concentrations of Amaranth. However, results need to be validated under field conditions.


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Research Title Effects of Salinity on Growth and Nutrient Composition of Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.).


1Chiroma, A. M., 1Ntasiri, D. and 2Ibrahim, A. (2007).


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology,

Yola, Nigeria




Published


Nig. J. Expt. Agric. Appl. Biol. 8(1): 99-104. Published in Nigeria by Beth-Bekka Academic Publishers Ltd



Abstract A pot experiment was conducted to investigate the effect of sodium sulphate (Na2SO4) salinity on the growth and nutrient composition of green amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) on a sandy loam soil. The salinity treatments consisted of 0.00, 4.48, 8.31 and 12.14 dSm-1 designated as control (So), S1, S2 and S3, respectively. Each treatment was completely randomized with three replications. Na2SO4 salinity delayed seed germination and apparently reduced germination with increasing salinity levels. Averaged over the four measurement dates, plant height and leaf area reduced by 11-36% and 9-39%, respectively. Salinity reduced the fresh and dry weights of the shoot and root with the magnitude of reduction being greater for the shoot than for the root. Salinity significantly increased the concentrations of N, Mg, Na and Cl in plant shoots and decreased those of K and Ca. With the exception of Na which was significantly increased with the rise in salinity level, root nutrient concentrations were not significantly affected by salinity.

Research Impacts The study revealed the sensitivity of commonly grown amaranthus to sodium sulphate salinity and that remedial measures should consider addressing possible nutritional disorders that may arise from either direct effect of specific ion toxicity and/or differential uptake and


23

transport of essential nutrients

Research Title Review of sustainable productivity of dry-land farming systems through furrow diking.


1Chiroma, A. M., 1Kundiri, A. M. and 2Ibrahim, A.


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology,

Yola, Nigeria




Published


Arid Zone J. Engr. Tech. & Environ. 6:49-59. Published by Faculty of Engineering, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria. Available at: <https://www.azojete.com.ng/index.php/azojete/article/view/346>



Abstract In areas where crop production is limited by low and variable rainfall, the search continues for cultural practices that conserve soil and water while maintaining or improving crop yield and quality. One of such practices is furrow diking (also known as tied-ridging, furrow damming, basin tillage or micro basin tillage). The practice involves constructing small earthen dams or dikes at certain intervals in furrowed fields to capture potential runoff water, thus increasing the ponding period for infiltration. This paper attempts to highlight the potentials of this land configuration practice for improving crop yields in areas where crop production is limited by low and variable rainfall. The constraints associated with its use have been identified and prospects for improving its effectiveness under various climatic


https://www.azojete.com.ng/index.php/azojete/article/view/346

24

conditions are discussed. Cost implications of the practice, as well as suggestions for scaling down costs are considered. Maximum benefits from furrow diking are generally obtained in dryland areas characterized by high intensity, short duration rainfall events which produce significant runoff.

Research Impacts The review demonstrates the potentials of furrow diking for improving the productivity of crops grown in water deficit areas and that results vary from location to location depending on site and soil

characteristics

Research Title Micronutrient status in some soils of selected Local Government Areas of Adamawa State, Nigeria


1Saddiq, A. M., 2Gungula, D. T. 3Mustapha, S. and 4Chiroma, A. M.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, Federal University of Technology,

Yola 2Department of Crop Production and Horticulture, Federal

University of Technology, Yola 3 Crop Production Programme, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa

University, Bauchi 4Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Proceedings of the 32nd Annual Conference of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria (SSSN) held at Federal University of Technology, Yola 10-14th March, 2008 pp. 196-214. Published by Soil Science Society of Nigeria.



Abstract Sixty (60) composite soil samples were taken from selected Fadama sites from 12 local government areas of Adamawa State. Homogenized soil samples were extracted for metallic micronutrients: Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn using 0.1 N HCl. Data collected were analysed using Genstat and means were compared using Duncan Multiple Range Test (DMTR). There were significant differences (P<0.01) in Fe, Cu and Mn contents among sites within the same local government area. Zinc contents within the same local government areas were however not significantly different. All micronutrient values of the selected sites were above critical value ranges with highest values of Fe of 37.59 mgkg-1 in Mubi North. Highest values of 1.16 mgkg-1 Cu was recorded in Song and highest value of 19.57 mgkg-1 Mn was recorded in Fufore LGA. Ganye LGA recorded the highest Zn content of 2.9 mgkg-1. Lowest values of 18.27, 0.52, 13.84, and 2.08 mgkg-1 of Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn were recorded in Mayo Belwa, Lamurde and Gombi, respectively. Correlation studies of 32 composite surface soils (0-20 cm) revealed


25

that sand was significantly (P<0.05) and negatively correlated (r=-0.129**) with iron but not significantly correlated with Mn. Sand significantly and positively correlated with copper (r=-0.129**). Silt, Clay, organic matter content, pH, and ECEC also positively and significantly (P<0.01) correlated with some of the cationic micronutrients. Since all values were above critical limits, there is no threat of Fe, Cu, Mn and Zn deficiency in the soils. Zinc deficiency is however likely to develop with continuous cropping and poor fertilizer management.

Research Impacts The study further confirms the widely agreed notion that micronutrients interact with themselves within the soil matrix and affect their availability in soils.

26

Research Title Yield and Water Use Efficiency of Millet as Affected by Land

Configuration Treatments


1Chiroma, A. M., 1Alhassan, A. B. and 2Khan, B.


of Maiduguri, P.M.B 1069, Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria 2Action Aid International, The Gambia Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Journal of Sustainable Agriculture. 32(2): (321-333). Published by The Haworth Press USA. Available online at http://jsa.haworthpress.com doi: 10.1080/10440040802171069 Also Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/248920744


Source of funding Murtala Mohammed Memorial Foundation

Abstract In the semi-arid areas of northeast Nigeria, which are characterized by low and variable rainfall, promising technologies for improving soil and water conservation are urgently needed. A 2-year field experiment was therefore initiated in 2000 to compare the relative efficacy of open ridge (OR), tied ridge (TR), pit planting (PP), and flat-bed (FB) planting for increasing water conservation, yield, and water use efficiency (WUE) of millet in a sandy loam soil. Ridge heights were 15 to 20 cm, and furrows were left open for OR and tied for TR. Pits were about 10 cm deep and 20 cm wide with a half-circle bund created around them to guide run-off water into them. The treatments were laid out in a randomized block design with four replicates. Except at harvest time, soil water storage during other sampling dates was significantly (p < 0.05) higher with OR, TR, and PP than with FB treatment. Growth attributes (plant height and straw yield), grain yield, and WUE were all significantly greater with OR, TR, and PP compared with FB in both cropping seasons. Pooled across the experimental years, grain yield under OR, TR, and PP treatments



https://www.researchgate.net/publication/248920744_Yield_and_Water_Use_Efficiency_of_Millet_as_Affected_by_Land_Configuration_Treatments

27

exceeded that of FB by 23%, 35%, and 28%, respectively. The corresponding increases in WUE with these treatments, relative to FB were 23%, 33%, and 28%, respectively. Based on the conditions of this study, we concluded that TR and PP were more effective than OR for increasing millet yield and water use efficiency.

Research Impacts The study demonstrates the potentials of land configuration practices of ridging and pit planting for improving millet yields under the fluctuating weather conditions characteristic of the study area.

Research Title Properties of Fadama Soils in Semi-arid Northeast Nigeria: 1.

Physical Properties Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

A.M. Chiroma,*, 1 I. Audu 2 and S. G. Malgwi 3

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria.

2Department of Agricultural & Environmental Resources Engineering, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria.

3Borno State Agricultural Development Programme , Maiduguri, Nigeria.




Published




Source of funding Fadama II, Borno State Government

Abstract Undisturbed surface (0-20 cm) soil core samples were collected from different irrigated fields of Borno State Fadama Development Project sites and characterized for selected physical properties. The results showed that the texture of the surface soil samples ranged from sandy loam to clay with about 37% of the soil samples classified as sandy loam. The mean bulk density, penetration resistance and saturated hydraulic conductivity for the surface soil layers were 1.60 g/cm3, 810 kPa, and 0.016 cm/h, respectively. The surface bulk densities of few sites in Borno North and Borno Central are above the established critical level of bulk density (1.63 g/cm3) for root penetration. The very low saturated hydraulic conductivity values of these soils explain their imperfectly drained during the rainy season. The results throw some light on the management requirement of the surface soils of the study area. Key words: Aggregation, fadama, flood plains, hydraulic conductivity,


28

penetration resistance, texture

Research Impacts The study identified poor structural stability, high soil bulk density, and low permeability as the key constraints to effective management of the flood plains.

Research Title Properties of Fadama Soils in Semi-Arid Northeast Nigeria: 2

Chemical Properties Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

A.M. Chiroma,*,1 I. Audu2 and S. G. Malgwi3

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria.

2Department of Agricultural & Environmental Resources Engineering, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria.

3Borno State Agricultural Development Programme , Maiduguri, Nigeria.




Published




Source of funding Fadama II, Borno State Government

Abstract Sixty surface (0-20 cm) soil samples were collected from different irrigated fields of Borno State Fadama Development Project sites and analyzed for their chemical properties. The results showed that the surface soils were slightly acidic to strongly alkaline with a mean pH and EC values of 6.6 and 1.28 dS/m, respectively. The soil samples from few sites in Borno North have exceeded the critical (> 4 dS/m) limit of EC and Na hazard (>15% ESP) indicating that soil salinity and sodicity are potential problems in these soils. The organic matter content of these soils varied between 0.50 and 3.86% indicating high variability ranging from very low to medium. These soils also contain highly variable contents of total nitrogen and available phosphorus, ranging from 0.06 to 0.45% and 2.1 to 11.9 mg/kg, respectively and so


29

would be expected to benefit from nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers. The cation exchange capacity of the surface soil samples ranged from 8.6-91.7 Cmol/kg with a mean value of 42.3 Cmol/kg, and was highly correlated with organic matter (r = 0.88**) and clay (r = 0.62**). The base saturation of these soils ranged from 87.0 to 99.7%, which is a good indication of adequate exchange sites in the soil adsorption complex. The results throw some light on the management requirement of the surface soils of the study area. Key words: Fadama, flood plains, properties, salinity, sodicity, base saturation

Research Impacts The study reveals that the flood plains in Borno State vary from very low to medium in native fertility. Furthermore, with effective cropping systems and appropriate soil management methods, some of the limitations for their for use can be overcome.

Research Title Fadama farming in semi-arid north eastern Nigeria: Soils, water and production systems.


1Audu, I., 2Chiroma, A.M. 3Shettima, A.G. 4Bukar, Y. 5Malgwi, S.G. 6Bumba, J. 7Mohammed, S. and 7Zannah, B.B.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Agric. & Environmental Resources

Engineering, University of Maiduguri.

2Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri. 3Department of Sociology, University of Maiduguri. 4Department of Geography, University of Maiduguri. 5Borno State Agricultural Development Programme,

Maiduguri, Nigeria 6Borno State Water Board, Maiduguri, Nigeria 7Borno State Fadama Development Office, ADP, Maiduguri,

Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


African Journal of Agricultural Research and Policies. 5(2): 85-96. Published by Duncan Science Publication, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria.


Source of funding Borno State Fadama Development Office, ADP, Maiduguri,


30

Nigeria Abstract A survey of ten participating Local Government Areas (LGAs) of

Borno State Fadama Development Project was conducted to

gather information on fadama farming. Fadama locations in each

of the ten LGAs were visited and samples were collected for

chemical and physical analysis. Ground water surface samples

were also taken for quality analysis. Questionnaires and Focus

Group Discussion (FGD) sessions were also used to evaluate

agricultural activities and socio-demographic features. Results

show that the fadama soils from the participating LGAs in Borno

varied from sandy loam to clay. The pH of the soil samples

ranged from 5.1 to 7.9 and the organic matter content varied

between 0.50 and 3.86% and the average amounts of

exchangeable sodium relative to other cations (ESP) ranged from

0.71 to 9.54, indicating that sodicity is not a potential problem in

these soils. Surface irrigation in its various forms is the dominant

water application method over most of the fadama. The water

sources for the irrigation include rivers, lakes, wash bores and

wells. Groundwater analysis shows that the pH ranged from 8.5

to 8.8 while sodium adsorption ratio and total dissolved salts

ranged from 0.45 to 2.02, and 65.0 to 208.0 mg/l, respectively.

Analysis of the questionnaires revealed that 76% of the people

fall in the 35-54 age group, which may seem to suggest that the

dependency ratio is low. The findings show that about 87.2% of

the farmers practice rain-fed agriculture during the rainy season

by cultivating the uplands. The cropping system over much of the

fadama is mainly rice rotated with vegetables. Respondents in the

survey and the FGD sessions catalogued several production

constraints in the use of fadama resources. The constraints

include environmental and institutional inadequacies.

Key words: Fadama, soils, water, agriculture, semi-arid,

northeast Nigeria. Research Impacts The survey identified key environmental constraints in fadama

production as: diminishing water resources, declining productivity of land and land limitation. Constraints related to the wider institutional environment are losses due to poor market, poor processing facilities, poor access roads and high cost of inputs

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Research Title Chemical quality indicators of an Entisol soil under different tillage practices in Maiduguri, Nigeria.


1Sauwa MM, 2Chiroma AM, 2Alhassan AB, 3Yakubu M, 1Noma

SS

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineer,

Faculty of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University,

Sokoto.

2Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture,

University of Maiduguri. 3Department of Crop Production, IBB University, Lapai, Niger

State.


[email protected] Tel: +2348060350495


Published


International Research Journal of Agricultural Science and Soil Science. 2(9): 395-399. Published by International Research Journals. Available online at http://www.interesjournals.org/IRJAS


Source of funding Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto State

Abstract The impact of tillage on soil quality indicators is useful in the

assessment of dynamic soil properties and processes that are

useful for evaluating the sustainability of soil and crop

management practices. The influence of three tillage systems: no-

tillage (NT), reduce tillage (RT) and conventional tillage (CT) on

chemical quality indicators after about 12 years of management

was evaluated on an Entisol in Maiduguri, north eastern Nigeria.

Soil pH, cation exchange capacity (CEC), organic carbon (OC),

total N, available P and exchangeable Na, K, Ca and Mg we


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32

redetermined on soil samples collected at depth of 0-15 and 15-

30 cm. An accumulation of soil OC occurred primarily in the top

(0-15 cm) soil layer with values of 0.296, 0.262 and 0.196 % for

NT, RT and CT treatments respectively. Total N, C:N ratio, Mg,

K, CEC, and ESP were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) influenced by

tillage practices particularly at surface (0-15 cm) soil layer. The

NT treatment recorded highest values of most chemical

parameters (including OC, CEC, TN, Mg and K) followed by the

RT treatment, while the CT treatment recorded the least. Soil

salinity (EC) and sodicity (SAR) at tributes, soil pH and other

chemical properties of the soil (including Ca, Na, Exch. acidity

and BS) were not affected by tillage methods. From the study it

could be concluded that, adoption of conservation tillage systems

(NT and RT) promotes agricultural sustainability and

environmental quality for the soil studied compared to the

conventional system (CT). Research Impacts The study demonstrate that for the conditions of the study, adoption

of conservation tillage systems (NT and RT) promotes

agricultural sustainability and environmental quality compared to

the conventional system (CT).

33

Research Title Assessment of climate change impacts in the Komadugu Yobe catchment and Lake Chad plains in north-eastern Nigeria.


1Gwary, M.M., 2Gwary, D.M, 3Chiroma, A. M, 1Gaya, H.I.M. and 4Adamu, S.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Agricultural Extension Services, University of

Maiduguri, Borno State Nigeria 1Department of Crop Protection, University of Maiduguri, Borno

State Nigeria 1Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, Borno

State Nigeria 1Department of Geology, University of Maiduguri, Borno State

Nigeria Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Proceedings of Alexander Von Humboldt Kolleg International Conference held at DRACC, Lugbe II, Abuja, Nigeria 11-13th December, 2012 pp. 155-162.



Abstract This study assessed the impact of climate change on the socio-economic, hydrological and soil characteristics of three communities of New Marte in the Chad Basin (Borno State), Kalyari in Komadugu Yobe Basin (Yobe State) and Daura in Komadugu Yobe Basin (Borno State). Socio-economic information was collected using Focus Group Discussion (FGD) while soil sampling and laboratory analysis were employed for soil characterization. The hydrological study involved the selection of hydrological stations and determination of hydro-chemistry of both surface and groundwater. The results of the socio-economic survey revealed the existence of food insecurity among the respondents. Results of the hydrological study revealed that water present in the study area consists of atmospheric, surface and


34

groundwater. The atmospheric water is mainly water from rainfall. The study shows that in Daura, for the period of six years all annual rainfall is less than 400 mm per annum. In Kalyari (Geidam sub-station) all the six years’ annual rainfall also fall below 400 mm/annum except in 2001 where recharge into the Aquifer took place which is above 700 mm/annum. In Ala (Marte), about 80% of annual rainfall calculated for twelve years fall under 700 mm/annum. The result of soil characterization indicates that the predominant soil types in the sampled sites range from sandy loam to sandy clay loam. The pedon is characterized by clay loam to sandy clay and clay. The physical properties varied from loamy sand to sandy loam, while bulk density (BD) and total porosity (TP) show that the variability in BD reflects the variation in relative proportion of organic carbon in these soils. The study recommended a need to provide inputs and technologies for more efficient utilization of resources of the flood plains; more efficient use of irrigation water; interregional water transfer from the southern part of the country to the north to recharge the whole basin; addition of gypsum to improve permeability of soils and sustained environmental education and a culture of tree planting.

Research Impacts The identified the major socio-economic, hydrological and soil related challenges faced by the inhabitants of the Komadugu Yobe Basins of Borno and Yobe States to be food insecurity, low and variable rainfall, as well as decline in soil quality.

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Research Title Aggregate properties of a Typic Ustipsamment under different

tillage practices in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

1Sauwa, M.M., 2Chiroma, A.M, Dikko, A.U, 2Waniyo, U.U. and 3Aisha, B.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineer, Faculty

of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. 2Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB

1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria. 3Lake Chad Research Institute, Maiduguri, Borno State Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)

[email protected] +2348060350495


Published


Agriculture and Biology Journal of North America 4(4): 234-

242. Available online at http://www.scihub.org/ABJNA



Abstract Soil structure is of fundamental significance to the productivity

of agricultural soils as it influences their water status,

workability, resistance to erosion likewise crop growth and

development. The effect of three tillage systems: no-tillage (NT),

reduce tillage (RT) and conventional tillage (CT)) on the

structural stability of a sandy loam soil in semiarid north eastern

Nigeria, was evaluated after 9-15 years of management. At the

end of growing season of 2010, triplicate undisturbed core

samples (10.8 cm in diameter and 12 cm height) were obtained at

two soil depths (0-15 cm and 15-30 cm), screened through a 4

mm mesh, air dried and used for aggregate stability

determinations. At the end of the study, aggregate stability of the


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36

soil measured as MWDD, MWDW, WSI, DR, and ASC on

average was greatest for the NT treatment except MWDD and

least for the CT treatment, while the RT treatment recorded

intermediary values. Most of the structural stability indices

measured were found to strongly correlate with OC, K and TN

content of the soil. In general, however, structural stability of the

soil decreased with depth irrespective of tillage method. We

concluded that, the conservation tillage practices (NT and RT)

are better soil management options for improving structural

stability of the soil, compared to the conventional (CT) treatment.

Key words: Tillage, Soil structure, Structural stability, Stability

indices, Conservation tillage, Conventional Tillage Research Impacts The study revealed that continued usage of conventional tillage

system gradually destroys the structural stability of a sandy loam

soil in semiarid north eastern Nigeria. On the other hand,

conservation tillage practices such as no-till and ridge tillage are

key to improving structural stability of the fragile soils.

Research Title Water transmission properties of a sandy loam soil under

different tillage practices in Maiduguri, Nigeria. Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

1Sauwa, M.M.., 2Chiroma, A.M, 1Danmowa, N.M, 1Abubakar,

G.A. and 1Salisu, A. Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science and Agricultural Engineer, Faculty

of Agriculture, Usmanu Danfodiyo University, Sokoto. 2Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB

1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria. Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)



Published


Agriculture and Biology Journal of North America 4(3): 227-

234. Available online at http://www.scihub.org/ABJNA



Abstract Knowledge of water transmission properties of soils could play a

significant role in the choice of appropriate water management

practices capable of alleviating production constraints of

predominantly coarse textured soils of semi-arid environments.

The effect of 3 tillage systems (no-till (NT), reduced-till (RT)

and conventional tillage (CT) on water transmission properties of

a sandy loam soil in Maiduguri was investigated after 9-15 years

of management. Within the growing season of 2010, saturated

hydraulic conductivity (Ksat) was determined using undisturbed

cores (10.8 cm in diameter and 12 cm in height) at surface (0-15

cm) and sub-surface (15-30 cm) soil depths and infiltration rate


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37

determined using double ring infiltrometer method. The NT and

RT treatments had higher Ksat values at both surface and sub-

surface soil depths (though the differences were not significant at

p ≤ 0.05) compared to the CT treatment. However, infiltration

characteristics of the soil were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) greater for

the NT and RT treatments relative to the CT treatment. The study

revealed that, the NT and RT treatments better improved Ksat

and infiltration characteristics of the soil relative to the CT

treatment, and are therefore better management practices for

improving water transmission properties of coarse textured soils

in semi-arid north eastern Nigeria.

Key words: Water transmission properties, Infiltration rate,

saturated hydraulic conductivity, Infiltration characteristics Research Impacts The study demonstrates the superiority of conservation tillage

practices such as NT and RT systems over conventional tillage

system in improving saturated hydraulic conductivity and

infiltration characteristics of coarse textured soils in semi-arid

north eastern Nigeria.

Research Title Effect of selected erosion predictors on seasonal soil loss from ephemeral gully Erosion features in Mubi area, Northeastern Nigeria.


1Tekwa, I. J., 2Alhassan, A. B. and 2Chiroma, A. M.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Agricultural Technology, The Federal

Polytechnic, P.M.B 35, Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria 2Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University




Published


Scholarly Journal of Agricultural Science, 3(10): 401-409.



Abstract A study on relative contributions of 8 selected soil erosion

predictors at 6 different (soil type, topography and vegetation)

EG

locations within Mubi area was carried out between April, 2008

and October, 2009. EG channel features (length, width, depth and

shape) were measured or noted at each site The geophysical,

chemical and mechanical properties of soils of the study sites


38

were determined in the field and laboratory following prescribed

procedures. The data was analyzed for the ANOVA using

Statistic

8.0, and sample means compared using SE± (P<0.05) Regression

Analysis was used to assess relative effect of erosion predictors

on actual erosion. Results showed that the sites were

heterogeneous and occupying flat to hilly topography, with few

grasses, shrubs and tree vegetations. The soil particle size

distribution was mainly sandy (50.30 to 62.41%) with silt and

clay contents in the range of 18.05 to 24.57 and 19.53 to 26.47%

respectively. Conversely, chemical properties such as OM (0.76

to 1.31%), K (2.41 to 10.13 Cmol (+)/kg), Ca (9.35 to 19.63

Cmol (+)/kg), Na (0.81 to 1.18 Cmol (+)/kg) and Mg (2.35 to

10.87 Cmol (+)/kg) significantly (P<0.05) fluctuated between

low and high rates in the soils. The erosion predictors expressed

both facilitatory (soil erodibility index > plastic limit > site slope

> run-off) and mitigatory (shear strength > bulk density > organic

matter > clay content) effects on

soil erosion. The erosion mitigating variables reduced soil loss by

7.20977 to 7109.39 m 24803.21 to 5322.86 m3 and 5865.07 to

6321.01 kg annually, while the erosion facilitators increased

erosion by 2.90245 to 480.420 m2, 4.75836 to 868.765 m3 and

7.45980 to 1159.86 kg annually. The annual estimates of

measured

ASL, VSL, and MSL significantly (P<0.05) varied among sites in

both years. The VSL and MSL were consistently higher at

Vimtim (in 2008) and Muvur (in 2009) and were lower at

Madanya in both

years.

Key words: Erosion predictors, geophysical, ephemeral gully

erosion, topography. Research Impacts The established that ephemeral gully erosion is one of the

dominant cause of soil loss and soil degradation in upland areas

and on agricultural fields around the study area.

39

Research Title Efficiency test of modeled empirical equations in predicting soil

loss from ephemeral gully erosion around Mubi, Northeast

Nigeria Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

Ijasini John Tekwa1, Abubakar Musa Kundiri 2, Alhaji Maigana

Chiroma3 Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Agricultural Technology, The Federal

Polytechnic, P.M.B 35, Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria 2Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal

University Dutse, P.M.B 7156, Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria 3Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, University




Published


International Soil and Water Conservation Research, 4(1): 12-19



Abstract A field study was carried out to assess soil loss from ephemeral

gully (EG) erosion at 6 different locations (Digil, Vimtim,

Muvur, Gella, Lamorde and Madanya) around the Mubi area

between April, 2008 and October, 2009. Each location consisted

of 3 water shed sites from where data was collected. EG shape,

land use, and conservation practices were noted, while EG

length, width, and depth were measured. Physico-chemical

properties of the soils were studied in the field and laboratory.

Soil loss was both measured and predicted using modeled

empirical equations. Results showed that the soils are

heterogeneous and lying on flat to hilly topographies with few

grasses, shrubs and tree vegetation. The soils comprised of sand

fractions that predominated the texture, with considerable silt and

clay contents. The empirical soil loss was generally related with

the measured soil loss and the predictions were widely reliable at

all sites, regard less of season. The measured and empirical

aggregate soil loss were more related in terms of volume of soil

loss (VSL) (r2 = 0.9330) and mass of soil loss (MSL) (r2 =

0.9171), than area of soil loss (ASL) (r2 = 0.2673). The empirical

estimates of VSL and MSL were consistently higher at Muvur

(less vegetation) and lower at Madanya and Gella (denser

vegetations) in both years. The maximum efficiency (Mse) of the

empirical equation in predicting ASL was between 1.41 (Digil)

and 89.07 (Lamorde), while the Mse was higher at Madanya

(2.56) and lowest at Vimtim (15.66) in terms of VSL prediction

efficiencies. The Mse also ranged from 1.84 (Madanya) to 15.74

(Vimtim) in respect of MSL predictions. These results led to the

recommendation that soil conservationists, farmers, private

and/or government agencies should implement the empirical


40

model in erosion studies around Mubi area. Research Impacts The study developed an empirical model for estimating ephemeral

gully erosion in Mubi, Adamawa State, Nigeria

Research Title Roles of soil biota and biodiversity In soil environment - A concise communication.


1Usman, S., 2Muhammad, Y. and 3Chiroma, A. M.

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Federal University PMB 7156 Dutse, Jigawa State, Nigeria,

2Department of Soil Science, IBB University of Science and Technology, Lapai, Niger State, Nigeria.

3Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB 1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria.


[email protected]


Published


Eurasian Journal of Soil Science, 5(4): 255-265. Available online at: http://fesss.org/eurasian_journal_ofsoil_science.asp



Abstract Soil biota (the living organisms in soil) plays an important role in

soil development and soil formation. This paper, briefly

highlighted some of the biological functions of soil biota and

suggests that proper understandings of biota and their

biodiversity in soil environment would provide ways to get better

understanding of soil health, soil function, soil quality and soil

fertility under sustainable soil management activities in

agricultural production.

Keywords: Soil biota, biodiversity, and soil environment Research Impacts The study demonstrates that good understanding of soil biota and

their biodiversity in soil environment is key to improving soil

health, soil function, soil quality, soil fertility and sustainable soil

management activities in agricultural production.

http://fesss.org/eurasian_journal_ofsoil_science.asp

41

Research Title Fertility and Suitability Evaluation of Some Selected Sites

Within the Great Green Wall (GGW) Corridor Of Jigawa State,

Nigeria For Sustainable Tree Crop Production Researchers Name(s): Lead Researcher first

I. Adamu1*, A. M. Chiroma1 and J. R. Orimoloye2

Researchers Address(s) 1Department of Soil Science, University of Maiduguri, PMB

1069, Maiduguri, Nigeria. 2Department of Agronomy, Faculty of Agriculture and Forestry,

University of Ibadan Correspondence Address (Tel. email, Physical)

[email protected]

Tel: +2348028586450


Published


J. Arid Agric. Special Issue: 125-134. Published by Faculty of

Agriculture, University of Maiduguri, Nigeria.


Source of funding Federal Ministry of Environment, Nigeria Abstract A baseline survey was conducted in some selected areas of

Jigawa State to evaluate the potential and suitability of the soils

and their sustainable management for some selected tree crops.

Soil investigations were carried out in eleven (11) participating

communities spread across six (6) Local Government Areas

within the State with a view to generating baseline information

on soil resources of the areas. Soil samples were collected from

the surface (0-30cm) soil depth within the Great Green Wall

Initiative Corridor (GGW) for physical and chemical analysis.

Sampling was carried out along ten kilometer (10km) lengths

transect at interval of one kilometer (1km) in each participating

community using auger. Soil samples were analyzed following

standard analytical procedures. Land Suitability Evaluation was

done following the approach by FAO framework for forestry

used in the study for assessment of physical suitability of the land

for specified kind of uses. The results for land suitability

assessment for growing mango and cashew on soils from the sites

of the study area revealed that soils in Gumel/Zuge,

Gumel/BarikinFaka and Babura/Muni, falls within the suitability

class of (S3) which are all

rated marginally suitable for production of mango and cashew,

because of their very low fertility status and organic matter

content. The remaining eight (8) sites were rated Not Suitable


42

(NS) for production of either mango or cashew. For possible

establishment of the proposed tree species, those sites rated as

Marginally Suitable (S3) and Not Suitable (NS) may also support

the establishment of the desired tree crops if special care is

taken, but with capital intensive in terms of water, fertilization,

and amendments which may not be practical.

Keywords: Fertility, evaluation, suitability, Great green wall,

community Research Impacts The results show that only soils from the three sites fell within

the suitability class of (S3) while the remaining eight sites were

rated not Suitable (NS) for production of either mango or cashew

due mainly to their very low fertility status and organic matter

content.

Documents

UNIVERSITY OF MAIDUGURI RESEARCH COMPENDIUM Sci/Prof. A.M... · crops on the fadama include cowpea, guna (cow melon) and rosalle (a variety of spinach). There is little or no published