Ripe Coffee Berry Volatiles Repel Second Instar Nymphs of Antesia Bugs (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae: Antestiopsis thunbergii) - Teresiah Njihia.

Abstract

Understanding the roles of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in insect-plant interactions is a key component towards the development of safe pest management strategies and sustainable agriculture. In the current study, we investigated the VOCs that contribute to deterring the pest from ripe berries. Behavioral assays showed that headspace volatiles collected from ripe berries were significantly avoided by second instar nymphs.

Contribution of Superabsorbent Polymers to Growth and Yield of African Leafy Vegetables - Dorcas Bernard

Superabsorbent polymers (SAPs) have been used as water-saving materials for limited irrigation water resources in arid and semi-arid areas. The purpose of this study was to optimize SAP application dosage and irrigation intervals on the growth of African leafy vegetables (ALVs) under greenhouse conditions. A factorial experiment was conducted under greenhouse conditions to determine the optimal SAP application, dosage, and irrigation intervals for the growth and production of African leafy vegetables.

Use and Benefit of Tree Germplasm from the World Agroforestry Genebank for Small Holder Farms in Kenya - Kavengi Kitonga.

Abstract

The World Agroforestry (ICRAF) in Kenya plays a key role in conserving tree genetic diversity, thereby contributing to the delivery of ecosystem services in tree-based production systems. This study explored the benefits of using the two most popular fodder tree species among smallholder farmers, sourced from the ICRAF genebank: Calliandra calothyrsus (Calliandra) and Gliricidia sepium (Gliricidia).