AVRDC - The World Vegetable Center

Seaweed aquaculture can have various environmental effects, with the role of providing habitat for surrounding organisms being of growing interest. Aquaculture systems typically consist of components such as ropes, cages, and cultivated seaweed itself. Each component possesses distinct characteristics and attributes, potentially influencing its function as a habitat. However, limited research has explored the differences in habitat provision among these various components. We conducted a field experiment to assess the habitat function of a seaweed aquaculture system involving a red alga Solieria pacifica , comparing the effects of ropes, cages, and cultured seaweed. Three treatments were tested: (1) a rope suspended without additional structure, (2) a rope suspended with an empty cage, and (3) a rope suspended with a cage containing cultured seaweed, representing the typical aquaculture setup. In all the treatments and sampling months, epifaunal assemblages are generally predominated by tube-dwelling amphipod crustaceans. Epifaunal abundance and diversity were significantly greater in the treatment with the rope and empty cage compared to the rope-only treatment, suggesting that cages provide an important habitat for epifauna. Interestingly, there was no significant difference in epifaunal diversity or assemblage structure between treatments with and without cultured seaweed. Furthermore, epifaunal abundance was higher in the absence of seaweed, indicating that cultured seaweed had limited habitat function and may even deter some epifauna. This case study offers valuable insights, demonstrating that structurally complex cages can provide more significant habitats for epifauna than the cultivated seaweed itself, highlighting an important consideration in aquaculture design. • Cages provide significant habitats for epifauna surpassing seaweed in aquaculture. • Cultivated Solieria pacifica offers limited habitat functionality for epifauna. • Artificial structures like cages enhance epifaunal abundance and diversity in seaweed aquaculture.

IntroductionWell-functioning seed systems are essential for disseminating improved crop varieties and boosting agricultural production. Understanding their functioning is key to designing tailored interventions. This study analyzed okra (Abelmoschus spp.) seed systems in the Republic of Benin, focusing on seed production, distribution, and constraints affecting the sector.MethodsA total of 296 okra growers, 79 seed producers, and 34 seed distributors were surveyed using structured questionnaires. Data were collected on seed sources, varieties, quality perceptions, and constraints. Both regulated and farmer-managed seed systems were assessed.ResultsFarmers’ seed systems supplied 90.1% of okra seed, while the regulated system accounted for 9.9%. The regulated system offered 18 varieties (including hybrids and open-pollinated varieties), while the farmer system offered 11 open-pollinated varieties. Respondents valued the germination rate and quality of regulated seed but cited high cost as a major limitation. Other critical barriers included lack of seed quality information, long distances to certified seed sales points, price disparities between imported and local seed, and limited awareness of improved variety performance.DiscussionTo address these challenges, we recommend establishing village-based agro-dealer networks and decentralized seed hubs to improve last-mile delivery in underserved areas. Complementary actions such as on-farm demonstration trials, participatory varietal evaluations, and flexible certification models could enhance farmer awareness, affordability, and seed system inclusivity. While focused on okra in Benin, the structural challenges identified are common in West African vegetable seed systems, offering valuable insights for regional interventions.

A sound fundamental knowledge of the agro morphological characteristics of amaranth accessions is crucial for promoting their use in food. This review aims to assess the genetic diversity within the collection to understand the range of genetic variation. Thirty-two agromorphological parameters of Ten amaranth accessions were analyzed in Samanko conditions. Wide variability was present concerning leaf pigmentation (PigF), flower density index (IDF), seed color (CH), and Branching index (IR). Statistical analysis showed significant differences among accessions for morphological characters such as number of plants, leaf width, stem height, terminal inflorescence length of stem, axillary inflorescence length, 50% flowering and 1000 grain weight. It appears that the Axillary Inflorescence (LIA) and the Length of the Terminal Inflorescence are correlated (r = 0.82). Length of the inflorescence terminal of the stem (LITT) and the Length of the Terminal Basal Branches (LITBT) are associated (r = 0.75). Stem height presents a robust correlation (r = 0.447) with 50% flowering date. The length of the inflorescence Axillary was also highly correlated with the length of the inflorescence terminal of the stem (r = 0.904*). Ascending hierarchical classification revealed three distinct classes: C1: Madira 1, Madira 2, A2004, A2002; C2: TP5-sel, N’gourouma, Akeri, AC-NL; C3: AHTI, Akeri. “Akeri.” “TP5-sel,” and “N’gourouma” are associated with the weight of 1000 grains, the length of the terminal branches, and the shape of the terminal inflorescence. “Poly” and “AHTI” are quite similar and are associated with the parameters of the length of basal branches and length of a terminal inflorescence of the stem “Madira 1”; “Madira 2”, “A2004”, “A2002” on the correlation circle indicates that the height of the plants and the 50% flowering date. These results indicate a high possibility of genetic diversity among the amaranth accessions within the collection. The data can be exploited in future breeding programs to improve the species.

This study aimed to evaluate spider plant (Cleome gynandra L.) accessions for agronomic and morphological characteristics. Sixty-four accessions, characterized under Samanko conditions, were assessed using a phenotypic evaluation system. Observations and biometric measurements covered 34 variables, revealing considerable agro-morphological variability among the accessions, particularly in qualitative traits. Significant differences were observed at the 5% threshold between accessions for variables such as plant height, plant diameter, pod width, and 50% flowering date. Several positive correlations were also noted between the traits. The study identified three distinct groups of accessions based on diversity structuring. The first group mainly comprised accessions with a short growth cycle and average yield. The second group was characterized by accessions with superior agronomic performance, featuring a long cycle and high yields. In contrast, class III exhibited lower agronomic performance compared to the other two classes. The variability identified in this study offers potential for use in Cleome gynandra L. improvement programs in Mali, with class II accessions distinguished by their dark green, hairy stems and superior agronomic performance being the most promising candidates for improvement.

This paper presents the results obtained from the research realized in controlled environmental conditions in a horizontal greenhouse where seedlings from varieties of tomato lines in the process of testing for approval in Romania were used. The research was carried out in a three-factorial experimental scheme, in which were taken into consideration as variation factors: three cultivars of tomatoes, 3 colors of light emitted by the LED bulbs and 3 intervals of time (15, 30 and 45 minutes/day) for plant exposure to the monochromatic additional light treatment. Biometric measurements were made on the height and diameter of the stems and assessments of seedling weight, as well as analyzes on nutrient composition, accumulated after three months of cultivation in the greenhouse. The results obtained are within the limits mentioned by the specialized literature for the best seedlings for the tested varieties of tomatoes.

Solanum scabrum berries in sub-Saharan Africa are prolific but neglected as an agricultural resource. Recognition and application of such underutilized resources rely on systematic study of the relevant phytochemicals of commercial value. The quantities of a total of 54 phytochemicals in Solanum scabrum berries were assessed using HPLC-MS methods. Berries from eight different genetic sources were analyzed with two entries monitored across different maturation stages. There was a significant variation among mature berries in the accumulation of phenolic acids, 91.5-794mg·100 g-1 dry weight (DW); flavonols, 76.3-897mg·100 g-1 DW; anthocyanins, 178-4650mg·100 g-1 DW; glycoalkaloids, 1.76-1630mg·100 g-1 DW; and saponins, 82.2-606mg·100 g-1 DW. Fruit development from immature to post-frost harvest featured dynamic changes in phytochemical composition and, despite remarkable differences in the absolute magnitude of content, the trend of change was generally similar in different genetic sources. The genotype-dependent difference in toxic glycoalkaloids in mature berries may partially explain the consumption controversy as it reflects glycoalkaloid content. The analytical methods applied in this work should serve for quality control of glycoalkaloids thereby improving the safe utilization of this berry. In addition, the selection and breeding of new genotypes with low and safe levels of glycoalkaloids and saponins in the berry could be of value in sub-Saharan Africa to increase nutrition and generate new income opportunities for growers. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Agronomic and ecological aspects play important roles in vegetable production, because the aspects will be used for determining suitable interventions. This study aims to provide current farmers’ practices of vegetable production, particularly for agronomic and ecological aspects of chilli and tomato in four regions of East Java and Bali. This study uses of analytical tool of descriptive approach by comparing and contrasting each production practices across regions. Data were compiled from a field survey of 360 farmers during 2013-2014. Results of analysis were presented in graphical and tabular forms. Farmers mostly selected hybrid varieties of vegetables because of economic reasons, such as high yield, good appearance and high number of fruits. Anthracnose and late blight were perceived as the most important disease in chilli and tomato respectively. Farmers controlled pests and diseases using pesticides. In general, farmers perceived that irrigation was one of limiting factors of vegetable farming. Poor drainage was one of the crucial issues in Bali. Farmers mostly sold vegetable once harvested. Post-harvest handling was still traditional, where farmers still less pay attention on post-harvest, even though they observed the economic advantage of post-harvest. Based on the existing practices, a special extension on vegetable production needs to be formulated appropriately, based on the specific characteristics of each region.

African indigenous vegetables (AIVs) have gained prominence in the recent past due to nutritional and health benefits. The low requirement for high value inputs has enabled low resource farmers to practice AIVs production. There have been improvements in the production of high quality AIVs seeds as well as more production of the AIVs leaf and fruits. As a consequence, there are occasional gluts of the AIVs leaf and fruit especially during the main production season. This study examined the challenges associated with production of processed AIVs and possible market opportunities using data from 10 AIVs processing groups and 21 key informants that were purposively selected. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. It was established that processors did not have the necessary skills, knowledge and training required for processing of AIVs in more economically attractive ways. There was no diversity in the processing methods and processed products. Types and sources of packaging materials were restricted in various respects. Processors did not have special storage facilities for the AIVs. The share of processed AIVs in the total consumption of the vegetables was 25%. Sixty percent of those interviewed stated that the demand for all types of processed AIVs was increasing. Many institutions were supporting processing of AIVs. Quality of processed AIVs was perceived to be same as that of the fresh AIVs. Consumers were willing to pay more money for better quality processed AIVs. In order to increase sales of processed AIVs there should be informal agreements, partnerships or contracts depending on the degree of relationship between processors and consumers to guarantee target markets. Tanzania Bureau of Standard (TBS) and Tanzania Food and Drugs Authority (TFDA) need to create awareness regarding the specific quality requirements for processed AIVs. Training should be provided on different processing methods and the range of products that could be produced for different consumers. There should be financial support and/or linking of processors with the different credit institutions. It is necessary to provide processing infrastructure and training on marketing of the processed products. Specific requirements for the premises, processing rooms and standards should be explained to the processors to assure the requisite quality. Product branding has to be undertaken especially at two levels, which are indicating the key attributes of AIVs on the packages and certification by TBS and TFDA as well as having their labels on the containers of the packed products. Key words: Vegetables, processors, quality, storage, demand, target markets.

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi 2012-13 and 2013-14 to study the influence of different sources and levels of sulphur on plant nutrient status of cabbage and various soil characteristics. The experiment was laid in a randomized block design with three replications. Three sources of sulphur i.e., gypsum, elemental sulphur and potassium sulphate with three levels i.e., 40, 70 and 100 kg S ha-1 for each source were given in the experiment. Potassium sulphate as a source of sulphur recorded highest nitrogen (3.3%), phosphorus (0.017%), potassium (2.15%) and sulphur (0.41%) in cabbage. Increasing levels of sulphur up to 70 kg ha-1 significantly increased the nitrogen (2.9%), potassium (2.1%) and sulphur (0.41%) in cabbage. However, there is a non-significant effect of levels of sulphur on phosphorus content. Elemental sulphur as a source of sulphur recorded the highest available sulphur (12.7 kg ha-1) followed by gypsum and potassium sulphate. Increasing levels of sulphur upt o 100 kg ha-1, there was a significant increase in theelectrical conductivity (0.142 d Sm-1), organic carbon (0.99%), available nitrogen (318.3 kg ha-1), available phosphorus (24.5 kg ha-1), available potassium (168.6 kg ha-1) and available sulphur (11.5 kg ha-1) status of the soil. Maximum head yield and seed yield were recorded with potassium sulphate as a source and increase in level, increased yield up to 100 kg S ha-1.