Browsing by Author "Msanya, B. M."

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Anthropogenic soils and land use patterns in relation to small mammal and flea abundance in plague endemic area of Western Usambara Mountains, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2014-07) Kimaro, D. N.; Msanya, B. M.; Meliyo, J.; Hieronimo, Proches; Mwango, Sibaway; Kihupi, N. I.; Gulinck, Hubert; Deckers, Jozef, A.
Heterogeneity in the landscapes of West Usambara Mountains on land use and human activities has been reported. However, the interface of land use patterns and human modified soils with small mammal and flea abundance for possible explanation of plague has not been explored. This study was carried out to determine the link between anthropogenic soils and land use patterns on small mammal and flea abundance and the occurrence of reported plague in the Western Usambara Mountains in Tanzania. Standard soil survey methods were used to identify and describe soils and land use patterns on lower slopes and valley bottoms on which the surrounding villages are reported to have high and medium plague frequencies. The identified soils were characterised in terms of their morphological and physico-chemical properties and classified according to FAO-World Reference Base for Soil Resources. Small mammals were trapped on the same landscape positions and identified to genus/species level. Fleas were removed from the trapped small mammals, counted and identified to species level. In total 57 small mammals were captured from which 32 fleas were collected. Results show that human settlements and mixed cultivation on lower slopes and continuous vegetable cropping in the valley bottoms are dominant land use types. Intensive use of forest soils, manuring and irrigation on farms in the studied landscapes have contributed to the development of uniquely human modified soils namely Hortic Anthrosols in the lower slopes and Plaggic Irragric Hortic Anthrosols in valley bottoms. The identified anthropogenic soils and land use patterns are associated with high abundance of small mammals (Mastomys natalensis) and flea species (Xenopsylla brasiliensis and Dinopsyllus lypusus). This phenomenon is vividly apparent in the villages with medium to high plague frequencies. The study suggests that plague surveillance programmes should consider the existing relationship between anthropogenic soils, land use patterns, small mammal and flea abundance.
Assessing drivers of soil properties and classification in the West Usambara mountains, Tanzania
(Elsevier, 2017-10-16) Massawe, B. H. J.; Winowiecki, L.; Meliyo, J. L.; Mbogoni, J. D. J.; Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D.; Deckersf, J.; Gulinck, H.; Lyamchai, C.; Sayula, G.; Msokah, E.; Vagen, T.; Brush, G.; Jelinskii, N. A.
Improved soil information in tropical montane regions is critical for conservation, sustainable agricultural management, and land use planning, but is often challenged by topographic and land-use heterogeneity. The West Usambara mountains are a part of the Eastern Arc chain of mountains of Tanzania and Kenya, a globally important tropical montane ecoregion made up of isolated fault-block mountain complexes characterized by high biological endemism, population density, and agronomic productivity. We synthesized novel and legacy soil data from published and unpublished studies to better understand the drivers of soil property distributions and soil diversity in the West Usambaras, and to serve as a foundation for improved soil mapping efforts across the Eastern Arc. Analysis of the resulting dataset of 468 sites (ranging in elevation from 1040 to 2230 m.a.s.l.) revealed that soil properties varied more significantly by land use and topography than by soil type, suggesting that future mapping efforts in the region should focus primarily on soil property prediction and secondarily on soil classification. Sites under cultivated land uses had the lowest topsoil soil organic carbon (SOC) concentrations and highest pH values, and SOC generally increased with increasing elevation. Valley soils had significantly lower surface SOC concentrations but higher exchangeable bases and pH values than all other landscape positions. Soil pH decreased by an average of 3.5 units across the entire elevation gradient and decreased by 1 unit with elevation even after SOC, land use and landscape position were included in multiple regression models. The relationship of cation exchange capacity (CEC) to SOC and clay content varied by landscape position. Therefore, particularly in montane regions where soils can vary significantly over short distances, multiple functions may be necessary to produce improved estimates of parameters such as CEC. Soil classification was driven most strongly by topography, with Acrisols (WRB Reference Group) and Ultisols (U.S. Soil Taxonomy (ST)) as the dominant soil types, located primarily on mid slope, upper slope and crest landscape positions, making up 47% and 75% of observed profiles, respectively. However, five ST Orders and seven WRB Reference Groups were present in the dataset, with the highest soil diversity occurring at lower slope landscape positions. Conclusions drawn from this large dataset support previous work in the West Usambaras and provide a conceptual foundation from which to build improved soil maps across the Eastern Arc and in other tropical montane systems throughout the world.
Assessment of soil fertility status for Bambara Groundnut Production in South-eastern Tanzania
(IJPSS, 2018-09-13) Tenga, J. J.; Semoka, J. M. R.; Msanya, B. M.
Intensive farming practised in the agro-ecological zones of Makonde plateau (C2) and Inland plain (E5) of south-eastern Tanzania without proper soil management has led to nutrient depletion. The objective of the study was to assess the fertility status of soils in Bambara groundnut growing areas of south-eastern Tanzania. Twenty-two farmers' field sites were sampled and composite samples of top soil at 0 – 20 cm depth were collected for physical and chemical analysis. The results indicate that the soils in the study area are sandy loam (64%), loamy sand (27%) and sandy clay loam (9%). About 28% of the soils in the study area had very low CEC values (< 6 cmol (+) kg soil). Soil pH was strongly acidic to moderately acidic (≤ 5.5) and slightly acidic (≥ 6.0) in the C2 and E5 agro- ecological zones, respectively. Total N was very low (< 0.1%) and organic carbon was very low to low (< 0.6%). Low levels of available P (<10 mg/kg), inadequate S (SO 4 -S) levels (< 10 mg/kg) were observed. The exchangeable K in the C2 zone was very low to low (< 0.05 cmol(+)/kg) while E5 zone had medium K level. The calcium level of C2 was low to medium (0.2 – 2.5 cmol(+)/kg) 2+ whereas that of E5 was medium to high (0.6 – 5.0 cmol(+)/kg). The exchangeable Mg levels were + very low to low (< 0.2 cmol(+)/kg) while Na was < 0.30 cmol(+)/kg soil indicating no sodicity problem. For > 90% of the studied soils extractable Zn was below critical level of 0.6 mg/kg. All soils had adequate extractable Fe whereas > 70% of the soils had high (> 5 mg/kg) extractable Mn. The study area generally indicated low fertility status in terms of N, P, K, S, Mg and Zn, calling for proper management for improving crop production.
Characterization of soil depth to coral bedrock and bedrock roughness in Jozani Groundwater Forest, Zanzibar, Tanzania.
(International Journal of Scientific & Engineering Research, 2017) Said, M. S.; Msanya, B. M.; Semoka, J. R.; Maliondo, S. M.S.
Soils formed on coral terrain have a wide range of depths to coral bedrock and percentage of coral outcrops. Cliffs and other featuresof seawater abrasion, limited root zone, habitation and distribution of specific plant species are among the common conditions on Zanzibar coral landscapes.The current study was intended to characterize the relationship between soil depth to coral bedrock (SDCB) and bedrock roughness (BR) and determine features which are related to seawater abrasion at Jozani Groundwater Forest (JGWF). Such conditions and features have varying spatial distribution and magnitude which are likely to affect plant growth and species distribution in JGWF. The study area was divided into 320 grid points that were used as probing points for determining SDCB and BR. Global positioning system (GPS) model GARMIN etrex 10 was used to locate grid points, while a long graduated stick was used to measure depths from soil surface to coral bedrock at each point. SDCB was calculated as an arithmetic mean of measured depths and BR as standard deviation of measured depths. ArcGIS 10.1 was used to map SDCB and BR of JGWF. Kichangani in Tumbatu Islet was visited to gather information related to abrasion that took place on coastal coral bedrock. Minimum values of SDCB and BR obtained from JGWF grassland were used to rank and categorize SDCB and BR in JGWF. Results from probes on the 302 grid points showed that JGWF has range of SDCB of about 0.35 - 1.4 m and above (>1.4 m) and BR of 0.1 - 0.4 m and above (>0.4 m).Trends of SDCB and BR values in JGWF were complex, decreasing towards the cliff on the West and towards North-end, but increased in the opposite direction. It was concluded from this study that there are complex relationships between SDCB and BR on coral land and that the relationships can be captured, ranked, and mapped. Such relationships affect plant growth and species distribution. Again, flat platform which was found at Kichangani and grassland of JGWF is an evidence of seawater abrasion on coral bedrocks.
Characterization of soils on various planation surfaces in Tanzania
(Proceedings of the World Congress of Soil Science, 1998-08-26) Shigeru, Araki; Msanya, B. M.; Magoggo, Juvent P.; Kimaro, Didas N.; Kitagawa, Yasuo
Characterization of some typical soils of the miombo woodland ecosystem of Kitonga Forest Reserve, Iringa, Tanzania: physico-chemical properties and classification
(Journal of Agricultural Science and Technology, 2014-03-20) Shelukindo, Hassan Bashiru; Msanya, B. M.; Semu, Ernest; Mwango, Sibaway Bakari; Singh, Bal Ram; Munishi, Pantaleo
Despite the fact that miombo woodland soils have significant implications in global climate change processes, few studies have been done to characterize and classify the soils of the miombo woodland ecosystem of Tanzania. The current study was carried out to map and classify soils of Kitonga Forest Reserve, which is a typical miombo woodland ecosystem, in order to generate relevant information for their use and management. A representative study area of 52 km 2 was selected and mapped at a scale of 1:50,000 on the basis of relief. Ten representative soil profiles were excavated and described using standard methods. Soil samples were taken from genetic soil horizons and analyzed in the laboratory for physico-chemical characteristics using standard methods. Using field and laboratory analytical data, the soils were classified according to the FAO-World Reference Base (FAO-WRB) for Soil Resources system as Cambisols, Leptosols and Fluvisols. In the USDA-NRCS Soil Taxonomy system the soils were classified as Inceptisols and Entisols. Topographical features played an important role in soil formation. The different soil types differed in physico-chemical properties, hence exhibit differences in their potentials, constraints and need specific management strategies. Texture varied from sandy to different loams; pH from 5.1 to 5.9; organic carbon from 0.9 g/kg to 20 g/kg; and CEC from 3 cmol/(+)kg to 24 cmol/(+)kg. Sustainable management of miombo woodlands ecosystem soils requires reduced deforestation and reduced land degradation.
Characterization of volcanic ash soils in south-western Tanzania: morphology, physicochemical properties, and classification
(African Study Monographs, 2007-03) Msanya, B. M.; Otsuka, Hiroo; Araki, Shigeru; Fujitake, Nobuhide
ABSTRACT This study examined the characteristics of volcanic ash soils in southwestern Tanzania. Twelve pedons of volcanic origin were studied, and 66 soil samples were analyzed. Soil morphology revealed volcanic ash layers of varying thicknesses. Most pedons had a dark thick humus surface and buried A, AB, and BA horizons with melanic indices of 1.7 or less. Except in two pedons, the NaF pH was 9.4 or more, reflecting an exchange complex domi- nated by amorphous materials and/or Al–humus complexes. The phospate-retention capacity ranged from 65 to 100%, except in two pedons, and was positively correlated with NaF pH. Both Tanzanian and Japanese volcanic ash soils showed comparable ranges of base saturation (BS) values, but the distribution patterns of BS basic cations, for example, showed some dif- ferences. Some Tanzanian volcanic ash soils had higher BS values than their Japanese coun- terparts. While the Japanese soils were generally more calcic and magnesic, the Tanzanian soils were more potassic and sodic than their counterparts, most likely reflecting lithologi- cal differences among parent materials in the two study areas. According to the USDA Soil Taxonomy, nine pedons satisfied the requirements for andic properties and were classified as Andisols at the order level, whereas according to FAO World Reference Base (WRB) soil classification, eight pedons were classified as Andosols at the level of reference soil groups.
Clay mineralogical composition and its influence on some physico-chemical properties of selected soils of Coast region, Tanzania
(1995) Mgata, E. S.; Msanya, B. M.
A mineralogical study was carried out in Coast Region, Tanzania, on soils developed from different parent materials. These materials are; unconsolidated sands and gravels of Neogene age, Grey-green marls of Cretaceous age, Calcareous silt stone and sandstone of Jurassic age and migmatitic gneisses of Precambrian age (Usagaran system). The soil clay fractions exhibit pertinent differences in mineralogical composition. Soils developed from migmatitic gneisses are predominantly kaolinitic with accessory amount of goethite. Kaolinite in these soils is pedogenic and is formed from feldspars and mica. Soils formed from calcareous siltstone and sandstone have mixed clay mineralogy including smectite, vermiculite and illite. Both smectite and vermiculite in these soils are pedogenic and are formed from mica, while illite is inherited from the parent materials. Soils developed from the grey-green marls are dominated by smectite and have some accessory amounts of kaolinite and illite; while those developed from tertiary sediments are characterized by mixed clay mineralogy including smectite, kaolinite and traces of gibbsite. The pedogenic environment suggests that both kaolinite and smectite in these soils are not formed insitu but are inherited from transported parent materials. The clay mineralogy is clearly reflected on the cation exchange capacity, moisture retention characteristics and carrying capacity (n value) of these soils
Contribution of land use to rodent flea load distribution in the plague endemic area of Lushoto District, Tanzania
(Tanzania Journal of Health Research, 2014-07) Hieronimo, Proches; Kihupi, Nganga I.; Kimaro, D. N.; Gulinck, Hubert; Mulungu, Loth S.; Msanya, B. M.; Leirs, Herwing; Deckers, J
Fleas associated with different rodent species are considered as the major vectors of bubonic plague, which is still rampant in different parts of the world. The objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of land use to rodent flea load distribution at fine scale in the plague endemic area of north-eastern Tanzania. Data was collected in three case areas namely, Shume, Lukozi and Mwangoi, differing in plague incidence levels. Data collection was carried out during both wet and dry seasons of 2012. Analysis of Variance and Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) statistical methods were used to clarify the relationships between fleas and specific land use characteristics. There was a significant variation (P ≤ 0.05) of flea indices in different land use types. Fallow and natural forest had higher flea indices whereas plantation forest mono-crop and mixed annual crops had the lowest flea indices among the aggregated land use types. The influence of individual land use types on flea indices was variable with fallow having a positive effect and land tillage showing a negative effect. The results also demonstrated a seasonal effect, part of which can be attributed to different land use practices such as application of pesticides, or the presence of grass strips around fields. These findings suggest that land use factors have a major influence on rodent flea abundance which can be taken as a proxy for plague infection risk. The results further point to the need for a comprehensive package that includes land tillage and crop type considerations on one hand and the associated human activities on the other, in planning and implementation of plague control interventions.
Contribution of land use to rodent flea load distribution in the plague endemic area of Lushoto District, Tanzania
(Sokoine University of Agriculture,, 2014-07-01) Hieronimo, Proches; Kihupi, Nganga I.; Kimaro, Didas N.; Gulinck, Hubert; Mulungu, Loth S.; Msanya, B. M.; Leirs, Herwing; Deckers, Jozef A.
Fleas associated with different rodent species are considered as the major vectors of bubonic plague, which is still rampant in different parts of the world. The objective of this study was to investigate the contribution of land use to rodent flea load distribution at fine scale in the plague endemic area of north-eastern Tanzania. Data was collected in three case areas namely, Shume, Lukozi and Mwangoi, differing in plague incidence levels. Data collection was carried out during both wet and dry seasons of 2012. Analysis of Variance and Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) statistical methods were used to clarify the relationships between fleas and specific land use characteristics. There was a significant variation (P ≤ 0.05) of flea indices in different land use types. Fallow and natural forest had higher flea indices whereas plantation forest mono-crop and mixed annual crops had the lowest flea indices among the aggregated land use types. The influence of individual land use types on flea indices was variable with fallow having a positive effect and land tillage showing a negative effect. The results also demonstrated a seasonal effect, part of which can be attributed to different land use practices such as application of pesticides, or the presence of grass strips around fields. These findings suggest that land use factors have a major influence on rodent flea abundance which can be taken as a proxy for plague infection risk. The results further point to the need for a comprehensive package that includes land tillage and crop type considerations on one hand and the associated human activities on the other, in planning and implementation of plague control interventions. ________________________________________________________________________________
Cultivation-induced effects on the soil organomineral matrix and their bearing on crust development on two soil formations from Tanzania
(Communications in Soil Science and Plant Analysis, 2008) Pardo, M. T.; Almendros, G.; Maliondo, S.; Kileo, E.; Msanya, B. M.
Land degradation as a result of land-use practices is a major environmental concern to sustainable agricultural production in Tanzania. The effect of clearing and long-term cultivation on physical, chemical, and biological characteristics is described in two representative soil formations from eastern Tanzania: Mkindo (Eutric Fluvisol) in the Mvomero district and Mafiga (Ferric Lixisol) in the Morogoro district. The results have shown that in the Mkindo site, 10 years of continuous rice cultivation has led to severe changes in most characteristics of the soil. Significant effects of cul- tivation coincide with those considered to favor clay dispersion and crusting phenomena, including changes in soil reaction, clay content, and mineralogy as well as generalized desaturation of the exchange complex, increasing sodicity, and severe losses of soil organic matter (SOM). In contrast, at the Mafiga site, 30 years of a less disturbing cultivation system, including periodic fallows, have also modified some soil characteristics but to a lower extent than at Mkindo. Decreased soil colloidal properties at the Mkindo site and lower stability against biological degra- dation, reflected by carbon (C) – release curves, than the Mafiga site could be causally connected to clay illuviation processes leading to accumulation of calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) but mainly caused by changes in SOM characteristics such as losses of humic (HA) and fulvic acid (FA) and accumulation of humin.
Cyanosoils project site and soil characterization
(Sokoine University of Agriculture, 2002) Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Maliondo, S. M. S.; Semu, E.; Madoffe, S. S.; Mvena, Z. K. S.
The objective of the study was to select sites for the Cyanosoils project and to characterize the soils on which experiments will be carried out. Through field visits and studies three sites were identified and described in Morogoro Urban and Mvomero Districts. Soil profiles were excavated, described and sampled for laboratory analyses.
Developing a coffee yield prediction and integrated soil fertility management recommendation model for Northern Tanzania
(International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 2014-02-14) Maro, Godsteven, P.; Mrema, J. P.; Msanya, B. M.; Janssen, Bert, H.; Teri, James, M.
The aim of this study was to develop a simple and quantitative system for coffee yield estimation and nutrient input advice, so as to address the problem of declining annual coffee production in Tanzania (particularly in its Northern coffee zone), which is related to declining soil fertility. The study was conducted between 2010 and 2013 at TaCRI Lyamungu, with source data taken from Hai and Lushoto districts, Northern Tanzania. An earlier model QUEFTS, developed for maize but under similar conditions as those of Arabica coffee (Coffea arabica) in the study areas was used as a benchmark. Secondary fertilizer trial data were used in model calibration for coffee, while adding two more steps related to balanced nutrition and the economics of integrated soil fertility management (ISFM). Primary soil analytical data and calculated yields on basis of tree number were used for model testing. The result was a new model which we hereby call SAFERNAC (Soil Analysis for Fertility Evaluation and Recommendation on Nutrient Application to Coffee). The model consists of three modules: SOIL (the soil properties of interest), PLANT (all the crop and crop management parameters such as physiological nutrient use efficiency, plant density, maximum yields per tree) and INPUT (nutrient inputs – organic and inorganic). It consists of two subsequent parts – a baseline approach (no input) for coffee land evaluation; and an integrated soil fertility management (ISFM) approach that involves application of nutrient inputs, for ISFM planning and design of fertilizer experiments. The model was checked for accuracy of the adjusted equations, and found to be capable of reproducing the actual yields by 80-100%. The new model is a useful tool for use in coffee farms.
Development of Soil Surveys in Tanzania
(Pedologist, 2002) Msanya, B. M.; Maggogo, J. P.; Otsuka, H.
Early response of second -- rotation pinus patula stands to nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers at Sao Hill forest plantation, Tanzania
(2005) Maliondo, S. M. S.; Mtui, E. B.; Chamshama, S. A. O.; Msanya, B. M.
Early response of second -- rotation Pinus patula stands to nitrogen and phosphate fertilizers at Sao Hill forest plantations, tanzania. An investigation into the effect of fertilization on second -- rotation Pinus patula stands as an option for increasing growth and yield was initiated in April 1998 at two sites in the Sao Hill forest plantation, Iringa region, southwest Tanzania. Six factorial fertilizer treatments consisting of nitrogen (N) (0, 60 kg N ha -1 ) and phosphorus (P) (0, 30, 60 kg P ha -1 ) were assigned randomly to one-year-old P. patula seedlings in April 1999. Tree heights were measured at 7, 18, 22, 30 and 42 months after out-planting. Diameter at breast height (dbh) was measured from 22 months onwards. At 7 months, seedlings were significantly taller at Ngwazi (0.45 + 0.03 m) than at Msiwasi (0.36 + 0.04 m). In contrast, although not significant, by 42 months trees were slightly taller at Msiwasi (5.00 + 0.37 m) than at Ngwazi (4.87 + 0.46 m). Similarly, height increment measured at 42 months was significantly higher at Msiwasi. Msiwasi had significantly larger dbh trees (1.99 + 0.36 cm) than Ngwazi(1.62 + 0.0.30 cm) at 22 months, but these differences disappeared with time. Neither the application of N nor P had any effect on tree growth at Ngwazi. However, application of N depressed tree survival from 96 to 89% at Msiwasi. Application of P increased diameter and height growth at Msiwasi only. These results further stress the need for developing site-specific recommendations based on research studies.
Ecological biogeography of West Usambara Mountains: a study on the influence of abiotic factors to spatial distribution of plant and animal species
(INTECH, 2018) Meliyo, J. L.; Masuki, K. F. G.; Msanya, B. M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Mulungu, L. S.
West Usambara Mountains, Tanzania are famous for rich biodiversity and endemic species of plants and animals. Although there have been extensive studies on plant and animals species, little attention has been given on abiotic factors influencing their spatial distribution. Given rampant degradation of vegetation and associated consequence on biodiversity, knowledge on abiotic factors influencing distribution of species along the landscape become pertinent for conservation. A study was carried out to explore abiotic factors impacting plant and animals species distribution. Soil, landform and land use/cover were studied using grids of 20 m × 20 m using FAO Guidelines for Soil Profile and Habitat Descriptions. Soils were described, sampled for laboratory analysis. Spatial distribution of plant species were determined in the grids, and along the transects, every time estimating the percent cover and describing the habitat. Distribution of animal species was studied using both small mammals and rodent burrows as proxies. Trapping was done using different traps sizes, checking daily for animal caught, counting and re-trapping. Rodent burrows were estimated in same grids by examining a width of 0.5 m from end to end of grid and total number of burrows recorded. Determination of species distribution was done using GLM regression. Results show that species are influenced by elevation, which was common to both plants and animals. Topsoil soil depth was positive to plant species whereas hillshade, surface stones, cultivation and atmospheric temperature were negatively influencing plant species. Rock outcrops, surface stones and cultivation were positively influencing small mammals distribution. It is concluded that factors influencing distribution of small mammals are elevation, surface stones, rock outcrop and cultivation. Factors influencing plant species are elevation soil depth whereas cultivation, hillshade, surface stone and rock out crops negatively impact distribution. For conservation, it is recommended that the best steps are to stop human activities leading to depletion of plant species and accelerating soil erosion and allow for self-regeneration. Control of soil erosion strongly recommended as way of plant species re-establishment.
Economic optimization of nutrient application to coffee in Northern Tanzania using SAFERNAC
(International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 2014-06-30) Maro, Godsteven, P.; Janssen, Bert, H.; Msanya, B. M.; Mrema, J.
The aim of this work, as an extension to SAFERNAC model, was to establish economically optimum combinations of N, P and K application to Arabica coffee in the Northern coffee zone of Tanzania. The study was conducted in Hai and Lushoto districts between 2010 and 2012. Prices of nutrient inputs and those of parchment coffee were introduced into the original SAFERNAC model, which was used to obtain yields from a soil of known properties receiving different levels of input N, P and K from both organic and inorganic sources (ISFM). The costs of these were derived from experience in Northern Tanzania, while coffee prices were estimated to range between 1250 and 2500 -1 TZS kg . The result was economically optimum N:P:K ratios that give highest net returns and value : cost ratios in situations of low, medium and high soil fertility. It was also shown that farmers’ decision to deviate from the optimum and the allowable level of such deviation, depend much upon the prices of nutrient inputs in equivalent terms. In the medium-fertility situation (which applies in the study districts), the highest yield increment was noted with the maximum amount of N and P. The optimum application rate was 310 kg N and 200 kg P per ha, where the profit margin (the gap between gross returns and costs) is highest. This is an indication that soil-available K is likely to suffice the needs of the crop for optimum productivity, but this is largely dependent on the K fluxes in different soil types. The optimum rates were tested with actual soil data in the two study districts, against 5 tons of farmyard manure and a combination of the two. At both the coffee prices -1 of 1250 and 2500 TZS kg , ISFM intervention (combination of organic and inorganic inputs) was more profitable than the other options, while coffee production showed to be more profitable in Hai than Lushoto.
The effect of clay on the persistence of BTi toxicity against mosquito larvae in Morogoro, Tanzania IA
(2001) Kilonzo, B. S.; Madoffe, S. S.; Maliondo, S. M. S.; Msanya, B. M.; Mabagalla, R.; Kitojo, D. H.
Laboratory colonies of Anopheles gambiae and Culex quinquefasciatus were reared from parental larvae obtained from the Ifakara Health Research Centre and septic tanks ill Morogoro Municipality respectively. Water ponds (1M3 ) were constructed at selected sites and left open for mosquitoes to breed ill freely. Various concentrations of Bti crystals were-mixed with varying concentrations of clay and tested against third instar larvae of each species at various periods of time post-preparation. A total of 60 larvae (20 x 3) were exposed to each mixture in the laboratory, and each- experiment was replicated four times. Mortality rates were recorded after 241t. exposure. The observations revealed that for every concentration of Bti crystals used, the toxicity on both species of mosquitoes was less persistent in crystal/clay mixtures than in crystals alone. It was also shown that such persistence was much less in mixtures containing large concentrations of clay (5mg/ml) titan in those containing low concentrations (0.05 - 0.5 mg/ml) of clay. It wasfurther observed th at the toxicity against Culex and Anopheles larvae was more persistent in mixtures containing higher concentrations of Bti crystals (0.12 - 0.3 ug/ml) titan ill those containing low concentrations (0.03 - 0.06 ug/ml) of the toxin. Furthermore, it was observed that C. quinquefasciatus larvae succumbed to Bti crystal/clay mixtures for longer periods titan A. gambiae larvae. It was generally concluded that clays have 11 negative impact on the persistence of Bti toxicity against mosquito larvae and th at such impact is more significant in mixtures containing large concentrations clay. It was also concluded that despite the environmental friendliness of Bti, its applicability by communities is limited in view of its short persistence when it is adsorbed to tropical soils which are found in most natural mosquito breeding sites.
Effect of conservational tillage on soil loss and plant nutrient status on vegetable yield, Northern slopes of Uluguru Mountains, Morogoro, Tanzania
(2010) Msita, H. B.; Mtakwa, P. W.; Kilasara, M.; Kimaro, D. N.; Msanya, B. M.; Ndyetabula, D. K.; Deckers, J. A.; Poesen, J.
The study was conducted to evaluate effects of conservational tillage on vegetable production on the northeastern part of Uluguru Mountains in Tanzania. Six treatments such as control conservational tillage; conservational tillage with manure; conservational tillage with insitu composting; control traditional tillage; traditional terrace with manure and traditional tillage with in situ composting were examined. Nutrient levels were determined from soil before and after harvest and from plant samples after harvest. Soil losses were assessed by collecting runoff using polyethylene troughs for each treatment. Analysis of variance and Multiple range test (P=0.05) was done to test the effect of the treatments. The differences (P=0.05) on soil loss, plant nutrient status and vegetable yield were observed. All conservational treatments gave high fresh yield (4.3–44.7 ton/ha), high nutrient retention (N% 0.11–0.14, P% 5.17– 16.33, K% 0.33-0.36) and experienced low soil losses (0.49, 0.54 to 0.65 ton/ha/season). While the opposite was true for traditional treatments lower fresh yield (0.9–13.9 ton/ha), low nutrient retention (N% 0.10–0.11, P% 0.91–4.00 and K% 0.29–0.32) and high soil losses (0.54, 0.83 to 1.26 ton/ha/season) at P=0.05. It was concluded from this study that the conservational tillage for vegetable production on sloping land ranging from 20 to 80 percent was the best practice resulting in increased crop yield, nutrient uptake, plant nutrient retention, and reduced soil loss.
Effect of pigeon pea-groundnut intercropping system on selected soil properties
(International Journal of Plant & Soil Science, 2014-02-14) Phiri, A. T.; Msaky, J. J.; Mrema, J.; Kanyama, G. Y.; Msanya, B. M.
On average Malawi is losing of 40 kg N ha-1 and 6.6 kg P ha-1 annually. Additionally, nutrient use efficiency (NUE) is low as a result of declining levels of soil organic matter (SOM) and associated deficiencies of other macro and micronutrients. This is usually below 20 kg maize grain kg-1 of nutrients applied. To investigate on the possibility of improving NUE a study was initiated in the 2011/12 cropping season with a parallel trial mounted along side in the second season, both were laid in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. The trials involved planting of pigeon pea as monocultures or as intercrops. The main trial had eight treatments while the parallel trial had ten treatments. After the first season legume biomass in some plots of the main trial was buried into the soil. Soil characterization was conducted before treatment application in the first and second year. Data were analyzed using genstat and subjected to analysis of variance at 5% level of confidence. Means were separated using the least significant difference. Generally, the soil chemical characteristics for soil samples collected in all the treatment plots both in the main and parallel trial indicate that the soil has low fertility. The organic carbon (OC), cation exchange capacity CEC (NH4OAc), and total N (%) was low, and was at 1.4 %, 3.5-3.6 cmol (+)/kg soil, 0.12%, while available phosphorus (Mehlich 3) was marginally adequate (mean=21.5 mg kg-1 and 22.1 mg kg-1). The soil texture which was predominantly sandy clay loam to sandy clay coupled to the low CEC suggest potential high leacheability of nutrient elements more especially nitrogen as nitrate. Inevitably, if the soil is not properly managed crop yield could be reduced drastically.