Browsing by Author "Maerere, A. P."

Now showing 1 - 20 of 45

A farmer participatory research approach to assess the effectiveness of field sanitation and regular trapping on banana weevil populations
(Fruits) Rannestad, O. T.; Maerere, A. P.; Torp, T.; Sæthre, M. G.
A farmer participatory research approach to assess the effectiveness of field sanitation and regular trapping on banana weevil populations
(Fruits, 2013) Rannestad, O. T.; Maerere, A. P.; Torp, T.; Sæthre, M. G.
Small-scale banana producers in Tanzania are facing constraints caused by the destructive activities of the banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus Germar). Many currently used methods of addressing the problem are ineffective or too expensive for local farmers to implement. Materials and methods. A combination of two integrated pest management (IPM) tools (regular trapping in combination with field sanitation) was tested at two farmer-managed sites (Bujela and Kyimo) and one researcher-managed site (SUA-Morogoro). Treated areas were surrounded by untreated control areas where no trapping and limited sanitation was done. Changes in population densities were estimated by the mark-recapture procedure and the Lincoln index. Results and discussion. After eight months, weevil populations in the cleaned and trapped areas had been reduced by 33% (Bujela), 33% (Kyimo) and 74% (SUA). The change in population sizes in the control areas differed greatly, possibly due to discrepancies in field management between farmers’ and researchers’ practice. Trap types, areas and sites affected the number of weevils captured. Disc-onstump (DOS) traps captured more weevils than corm disc (CD) and pseudostem (PS) traps. Weevils responded more strongly to traps in the clean area at SUA compared with the other two sites, probably because the more rigid sanitation practices at SUA meant that volatiles from the traps were less likely to be masked by volatiles from surrounding residues. Conclusion. Regular trapping with field sanitation can greatly reduce populations of banana weevils, but strict adherence to method execution is required in order to gain favourable results.
An overview of bactrocera (Diptera: Tephritidae) invasions and their speculated dominancy over native fruit fly species in Tanzania
(Journal of Entomology) Mwatawala, M.W.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; De Meyer, M.; Maerere, A. P.
An overview of bactrocera (Diptera: Tephritidae) invasions and their speculated dominancy over native fruit fly species in Tanzania
(Journal of Entomology) Mwatawala, M.W.; De Meyer, M.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, A. P.
An overview of bactrocera (Diptera: Tephritidae) invasions and their speculated dominancy over native fruit fly species in Tanzania
(Journal of Entomology, 2009) Mwatawala, M.W.; De Meyer, M.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, A. P.
The dominancy of introduced Bactrocera species (Diptera: Tephritidae) over the native fruit fly species was assessed based on data collected from a trapping and sampling program in Morogoro, Tanzania, from 2004 to 2006. Two invasions by Bactrocera species namely the invasive fruit fly Bactrocera invadens Drew, Tsuruta and White and the Solanum fruit fly Bactrocera latifrons (Hendel) have been recorded in 2003 and 2006, respectively. These add to an earlier introduced melon fly Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett). Points and exact times of entry of these species are still unknown. Dominance of Bactrocera species over the native Ceratitis species has been speculated from other parts of the world. Results of this study also suggest the dominancy of Bactrocera species over native Ceratitis species in Tanzania. B. cucurbitae seems to dominate the other cucurbit infesters in terms of abundance and infestation rate. Similarly, B. invadens seems to dominate the native Ceratitis species in orchard fruits in terms of abundance, host range and infestation rate. B. latifrons, whose distribution in the country is still unclear, seems to be the dominant species in its main hosts from family Solananaceae. The outcome of the competition resulting from these introductions is speculated upon. Presence of these pests calls for strong surveillance systems and quarantine regulations to protect the infant fruit industry of Tanzania.
Analysis of the agricultural science, Technology and Innovation System: banana (Musa spp.) case study in Tanzania
(ResearchGate) Maerere, A. P.; Rweyemamu, C. L.; Sibuga, K. P.; Mgembe, E. R.; Rwambali, E. G.; Nchimbi-Msolla, S.
Banana (Musa spp. Colla) cropping systems, production constraints and cultivar preferences in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo
(Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences) Dowiya, N. B.; Rweyemamu, C. L.; Maerere, A. P.
Biodiversity of fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) in orchards in different agro-ecological zones of the Morogoro region, Tanzania
(Fruits) Mwatawala, M. W.; De Meyer, M.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, A. P.
Biodiversity of fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) in orchards in different agro-ecological zones of the Morogoro region, Tanzania
(Fruits, 2006) Mwatawala, M. W.; De Meyer, M.; Makundi, Rhodes H.; Maerere, A. P.
Introduction. Fruit flies (Diptera, Tephritidae) are among the major constraints in commercial horticulture in many African developing countries. Knowledge of the tephritid spectrum in any given area is a prerequisite for the development of an IPM program to alleviate the pest problem. We studied the fruit fly diversity in four main agro-ecological zones which are significant fruit-producing areas in the Morogoro Region, Tanzania. Materials and methods. Fruit fly diversity was investigated for one year (October 2004 – October 2005). Parapheromones, synthetic food attractant and protein-bait traps were used to trap the flies at the different locations in Morogoro region, Tanzania. One mixed orchard was selected at each of four locations representing the different agro-ecological zones of the region. Results. The recently introduced alien species, Bactrocera invadens, and three indigenous pest species, Ceratitis rosa, Dacus bivittatus and D. punctatifrons, were found at all the four sites, while Bactrocera cucurbitae, Ceratitis cosyra, Dacus chiwira and D. humeralis were found in three out of the four sites. The Sokoine University of Agriculture (SUA) Horticulture Unit and Mikese sites had the highest species diversity while the Mkindo and Nyandira sites had the lowest diversity. The between-habitats diversity (Beta diversity) was similar among the SUA, Mkindo and Mikese sites. Only the Nyandira site had a higher dissimilarity in comparison with the other three sites. Discussion. The most abundant species at low- and mid-elevation sites was Bactrocera invadens while, at high elevation, Ceratitis rosa was the dominant species. Protein-baited traps attracted the highest diversity of fruit flies in comparison with the more specific parapheromones. The synthetic food attractant (three-component lure) was less efficient compared with the protein bait. The large dissimilarity at the Nyandira site is probably due to the different types of host fruits found and grown in high altitude areas (mainly temperate fruits). Fruit fly species associated with these types of fruits, e.g., Ceratitis rubivora and Trirhithrum coffeae, were found only at this site.
Changes in acidity of plant growth media during heat sterilisation
(Journal of Applied Biosciences) Msogoya, T. J.; Maerere, A. P.; Nzogela, Y.; Kusolwa, P. M.
Changes in acidity of plant growth media during heat sterilisation
(Journal of Applied Biosciences, 2008) Msogoya, T. J.; Maerere, A. P.; Nzogela, Y.; Kusolwa, P. M.
Tissue culture media provide ideal conditions for growth of plant cells, but also bacteria and fungi. It is therefore necessary to sterilize media to remove these microbes prior to incubation of explants. Growth media are commonly sterilised by autoclaving at 121°C and pressure of 105 kPa for 15 minutes, or longer for larger volumes (Beyl, 2000). Some components of the growth media such as gibberellins (GA3) and capanthothenate are heat-labile and would become inactive when autoclaved (Nissen & Sutter, 1990). Such heat sensitive components are sterilised by filtering through bacteria-proof membrane (0.22μm pores) and added to the sterilised medium after it has cooled down to at least 60°C. Autoclaving the growth media at 121°C and pressure of 105 kPa for 15 - 20 minutes also breaks down sucrose into D-glucose and Dfructose, resulting in alteration in the osmotic potential of the growth media. Thus, it is important to consider these changes when performing osmotic-sensitive procedures such as protoplast culture. Moreover, the simple sugars resulting from sucrose degradation apparently have inhibitory effects on in vitro regeneration of some plant tissues (Dodds & Roberts, 1990).
Comparative effectiveness of animal manures on soil chemical properties, yield and root growth of amaranthus (Amaranthus cruentus L.)
(AJST) Maerere, A. P.; Kimbi, G. G.; Nonga, D. L. M.
Comparative effectiveness of animal manures on soil chemical properties, yield and root growth of amaranthus (Amaranthus cruentus L.)
(AJST, 2001) Maerere, A. P.; Kimbi, G. G.; Nonga, D. L. M.
Pot and field experiments were conducted to compare the effects of dairy cow, goat and poultry manures on soil available levels of N and P and amaranths yield and root growth. The three amendments were applied on Oxisols at 100, 150 and 170 kg N/ha in a split plot design and replicated three times. Pot experiment lasted for one month whereas field experiment was conducted over three monthly crop cycles. Results of both experiments indicated that applications of the three manures significantly (P < 0.01) increased soil available levels of N and P shoot dry matter yield, taproot length and root dry weight. Comparison of the responses from the three manures revealed that for all the parameters evaluated the trend was; Poultry manure > goat manure > dairy cow manure. This was largely attributed to differences in total N, total P, C/N and C/P ratios of the amendments. Field experiment results revealed that responses were highest after the third crop harvest suggesting that mineralization of organic N and P increased with time. Based on fertilizer recommendations of N and P for Southern highlands of Tanzania and the highest rate used in this study (170 kg N/ha), applications of 5.8 tons/ha, 9.8 tons/ha and 13.4 tons/ha of poultry, goat and dairy cow manure will suffice the requirement of 40 kg N/ha and 20 kg P/ha recommended for most field crops.
Control of soil erosion in mzinga river catchment In the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania: Approaches and practices
(Tanzania Journal for Population studies and Development) Mulengera, M. K.; Lulandala, L. L.; Maliondo, S. M; Maerere, A. P.; Temu, R. P. C.; Msuya, C. P.
Control of soil erosion in mzinga river catchment In the Uluguru Mountains, Tanzania: Approaches and practices
(Tanzania Journal for Population studies and Development, 2017) Mulengera, M. K.; Lulandala, L. L.; Maliondo, S. M; Maerere, A. P.; Temu, R. P. C.; Msuya, C. P.
Soil erosion is a serious problem in Tanzania that leads to land degradation and rapid siltation of water reservoirs and water supply structures. This paper presents findings from a project initiated in 2003/2004 to rehabilitate the Mzinga River Catchment. The objective of the project was to rehabilitate the highly degraded catchment in order to improve peoples’ economic well being by imparting knowledge of raising tree seedlings in nurseries, growing forest and fruit trees, practicing agroforestry, and by establishing mechanical conservation works. The catchment conservation approach adopted was land user free choice in collaboration with community conservation committee and other key stake holders. Soil erosion measurements were done on fields, fallow lands, and semi-natural vegetation areas to monitor land use practices that contribute greatly to catchment degradation. Sediment yield modelling was done to determine rates of sediment yields from the catchment. The study results show very high soil erosion rates (up to more than 33 tons/ha) on agricultural lands, and sediment yields from the Mzinga river catchment of about 17 tons/ha per year. The study showed that conservation activities need extension to overcome the bad historical experiences of the communities in the catchment area, and to have more farmers adopting appropriate soil conservation measures after demonstrated increased productivity and economic benefits that will be achieved through good land husbandry practices and planted forest and fruit trees.
Effect of mulch and different fungicide spray regimes on yield of tomato (Solanum Lycopersicum L.) in Tanzania
(African Journal of food, agriculture and development) Mtui, H. D.; Maerere, A. P.; Bennett, M. A.; Sibuga, K. P.
Effect of seed treatments and mulch on seedborne bacterial pathogens and yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) in Tanzania
(Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences) Mtui, H.D.; Bennett, M.A.; Maerere, A. P.; Miller, S.A.; Kleinhenz, M.D; Sibuga, K.P.
Effect of seed treatments and mulch on seedborne bacterial pathogens and yield of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum Mill.) in Tanzania
(Journal of Animal & Plant Sciences, 2010) Mtui, H.D.; Bennett, M.A.; Maerere, A. P.; Miller, S.A.; Kleinhenz, M.D; Sibuga, K.P.
The study was conducted to assess the presence of seedborne bacteria in four tomato seedlots, the efficacy of seed treatments in reducing bacterial contamination and to determine influence of seed treatment or mulch on crop development and yield. Tomato seedlots were treated using hot water, chlorine, and Ridomil® followed by seedborne bacteria pathogen detection. Seedlings from treated and non-treated seedlots were grown in the field in mulched and non-mulched plots. Results showed that all seedlots assessed were contaminated with Clavibacter michiganensis subsp. michiganensis (CMM), Xanthomonas campestris pv. vesicatoria (XCV) and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato (PST). ‘Tanya G1’, ‘Tanya G2’ (first and second generation farmer-saved seeds respectively) and commercial ‘Cal J’ seedlots were more highly contaminated with XCV than commercial ‘Tanya’ seedlot. ‘Tanya G2’ had the highest PST contamination but did not differ from other seedlots for CMM. Chlorine and hot water significantly reduced bacterial populations on seeds. Ridomil seed treatment did not affect bacterial contamination compared to the untreated control. Marketable fruit yield differed statistically (P = 0.01) for commercial ‘Tanya’ and ‘Cal J’ seedlots. Commercial ‘Tanya’ and ‘Tanya G1’ had higher yields compared to ‘Cal J’ and ‘Tanya G2’. There was no statistical difference (P = 0.05) among seed sources with respect to incidence of blossom end rot (BER) and sunscald disorders. Chlorine and hot water treatments led to higher number of fruits per plant and increased yield compared to Ridomil treatment and the control. Seed treatment had no significant influence on BER. Plants from hot water treatment produced statistically fewer sunscald fruits compared to control, because of more vigorous growth that provided protective shade. The effect of mulch on the yield components and in reduction of sun-scalded fruits was highly significant (P = 0.0001). Seed treatment and mulch therefore can reduce disease infestation and improve tomato yield.
Effects of amending compost and green manure with phosphate rock on quality of amaranth
(African Journal of Horticultural Science (2008)) Minja, R. R.; Maerere, A. P.; Rweyemamu, C. L.; Kimbi, G. G.
Effects of amending compost and green manure with phosphate rock on quality of amaranth
(African Journal of Horticultural Science (2008), 2008) Minja, R. R.; Maerere, A. P.; Rweyemamu, C. L.; Kimbi, G. G.
A study was conducted in Iringa, Tanzania to evaluate the effects of crotalaria green manure and compost applied alone or amended with Minjingu Phosphate Rock (MPR) as sources of N and P and their effects on vegetable quality attributes. The field experiment was conducted using a split plot design with three replications. Crop species formed main plots, while fertilizer treatments constituted the subplots. Two amaranth species (Amaranthus cruentus and Amaranthus hypochondriacus) were used. The treatments included crotalaria (Crotalaria ochroleuca), crotalaria + MPR, compost, compost + MPR and NPK, which was used as a standard. Results indicated that amendment of compost or crotalaria with MPR enhanced P supply by 22% and 100%, respectively. The tested materials significantly increased vitamin C, vitamin A and crude protein content of amaranth. Plants from plots treated with crotalaria had significantly higher levels of protein, calcium, vitamins C and A contents, compared to those fertilized with compost. There were significant and positive correlations between soil available N, P, and uptake with protein, calcium, iron, vitamin C and A content of amaranth. Due to the role of Ca in cell wall synthesis, it probably influenced the keeping quality of amaranth. The high Ca content in MPR amended treatments increased the evaluated keeping quality attributes of amaranth. It is therefore recommended that the tested organic materials be adopted as sources of N and P in the organic production of amaranth. Application of crotalaria and compost should be supplemented with P sources such as MPR in order to increase their P contents.