Agricultural Development

Factors Affecting the Pricing Movements of Copras in 3rd District of Quezon

2025-04-03T16:51:53+00:00

This study investigates the factors affecting the pricing movements of copras in the 3rd District of Quezon. The finding sought to provide the information on what is the current situation of copra pricing and what strategies to address those factors. Data was gathered from 364 coconut farmers from the 12 municipalities of the 3rd District of Quezon, who responded using a descriptive survey design. Findings show that the majority of the livelihood of people in the 3rd District of Quezon is producing copras, where their income is from this production. However, challenges such as weather/climate, demand and supply, middlemen/traders, and action of the government make a huge impact on the pricing movement of copra. The recommendations for the pricing movements of copras are provided.

Exploring Oyster Mushroom (Pleurotus Ostreatus) Mycelium as a Sustainable Biodegradable Plastic Packaging

2025-04-12T17:22:33+00:00

This study was geared toward exploring oyster mushroom (Pleurotus ostreatus) as a sustainable biodegradable plastic packaging material. Plastics are commonly used as packaging materials in the market industry. However, the continuous use of conventional plastic is inadequate for the environment. The development of bioplastic packaging made from mushroom mycelium intends to lessen the use of plastics. The bioplastic samples were subjected to different tests and parameters to measure their mechanical properties, including tensile strength, water solubility, durability, biodegradability, and cost in the market. The following were the treatments for the development of mycelium bioplastic: Treatment 1 (no mushroom mycelium), Treatment 2 (5g mushroom mycelium), Treatment 3 (10g mushroom mycelium), Treatment 4 (15g mushroom mycelium), Treatment 5 (20g mushroom mycelium). The results revealed that Treatment 5 (20g mushroom mycelium) had the highest tensile strength (8.33 inches) among the treatments, which concluded that the more mycelium added, the stronger the bioplastic made. In terms of water solubility, all the mycelium bioplastic samples were dissolved. For its durability test, Treatment 5 (20g mushroom mycelium) stretched to inches and was considered highly durable among the treatments, which means that the mushroom mycelium made it more durable. For the biodegradability of the mycelium bioplastics, which were buried for 15 days, Treatment 5 (20g mushroom mycelium) had the highest percentage of biodegradability (5.63%). The results revealed that the higher the amount of mycelium present, the more elastic, soluble, durable, and biodegradable the bioplastics.

The Effect of Different Ketogenic Diet Patterns on the Health Status of Obese Rats: A Comparative Study

2025-04-12T17:26:13+00:00

This study investigates the effects of various ketogenic diets—Classic Ketogenic Diet, Modified Atkins Diet, Medium-Chain Triglyceride Diet, and Low-Glycemic Index Treatment—on weight loss, lipid profiles, liver and kidney function, as well as their impact on oxidative stress, inflammation, and certain hormones in obese rats. Thirty-six Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups, with one serving as a negative control that was fed a standard diet while the others were fed a high-fat diet for nine weeks to induce obesity. Afterwards, the obese rats were categorized into five groups: one continued on a standard diet as a positive control, while the others followed different ketogenic diets for six weeks, maintaining a standardized caloric intake. Results showed that rats on ketogenic diets had significant weight loss, improved lipid profiles, and enhanced liver and kidney functions compared to the positive control group. There were also reductions in the oxidative stress marker C-reactive protein (CRP) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), alongside increases in cortisol and triiodothyronine (T3) levels. These findings suggest that ketogenic diets provide several benefits for weight management and metabolic health. However, the increase in cortisol levels raises concerns about potential stress effects, highlighting the need for careful application in clinical settings. Further research is needed to assess long-term safety and relevance to human health.

Yield and Fruit Properties of Khalas Date Palms as Affected by Spraying Some Antioxidants

2025-04-12T17:29:29+00:00

This study was conducted over two successive seasons on Khalas date palms. The chosen palms were sprayed with citric, ascorbic, and salicylic acids at 500, 500, and 100 ppm, respectively, as antioxidant treatments, either individually or in combinations, to investigate their effects on productivity and fruit physical and chemical properties. The findings demonstrate that, when compared to the untreated palms (control), foliar application of the antioxidants under investigation, either alone or in combination, improved the fruit set, fruit retention, bunch weight, yield per palm, fruit weight, fruit dimensions, flesh weight, total soluble solids, total sugars, reducing sugars, non-reducing sugars, and N, P, K, Ca, Mg, and Fe values in the fruits. In decreasing order, citric, ascorbic, and salicylic acids were used to promote these characteristics. Applying these antioxidants together was more practical in this regard than applying them separately. Spraying a combination of citric, ascorbic, and salicylic acids four times (on the first of March, April, May, and June) had the greatest effects on Khalas date palms' production and fruit quality.

Comparative Analysis of Australian Red Claw Crayfish Growth, Protein Content Nad Meat Characteristics Across Diverse Natural Feeds

2025-04-14T14:57:17+00:00

This study aimed to evaluate the growth performance, feed conversion ratio (FCR), mortality rates, protein content, meat characteristics, and profitability of ARC crayfish fed with different natural feeds. Results showed that crayfish fed with commercial feeds had the highest weight gain and a better feed conversion ratio (28.2) compared to natural feeds. Crayfish fed with trash fish and eggshell had the highest mean mortality (4.33). The highest crude protein was recorded from crayfish fed with a combination of vegetables, trash fish, and eggshell. For sensory evaluation, it showed that crayfish fed with vegetables and eggshell had the best meat taste, texture, and aroma. Lastly, the highest ROI was observed in crayfish fed with trash fish and eggshell. Overall, these findings focused on the potential of other natural feeds as alternatives to commercial crayfish feeds.

Utilization of Organic Feeds Formulation as an Alternative to Enhance the Growth Performance of Quezon Native PIGS

2025-04-14T15:09:33+00:00

This study aimed to develop an Organic Feed Formulation and evaluate its effects on the Growth Performance of Quezon Native Pigs from lechon-bound pigs. It also assessed the carcass characteristics, such as back fat thickness, crude protein, water holding capacity, and meat quality, including aroma, taste, juiciness, tenderness, and overall acceptability. The findings sought to provide valuable insights to native pig raisers in Guinayangan, Quezon, to help them optimize growth rates, productivity, and profitability in native pig production. A two-group design was used in this study with two treatments replicated three times. The treatments are: T1 - Native pigs under Traditional Feeding Practices and T2 - Native Pigs under Organic Feed Formulation. There was a significant difference in the Average Daily Gain (ADG) and Feed Conversion Ratio between the two treatments. In terms of carcass characteristics (back fat thickness, crude protein, and water holding capacity) and meat quality (aroma, taste, tenderness, juiciness, and overall acceptability), better meat quality and improved water holding capacity were obtained in native pigs fed with the Organic Feed Formulation. Moreover, a higher Return on Investment (ROI) was observed in native pigs fed with the Organic Feed Formulation.

Effects of Various Natural Feeds on Growth Performance and Protein Content of Mud Crabs (Scylla serrata)

2025-04-15T15:19:59+00:00

The increasing demand for mud crab as a seafood delicacy entails crab growers providing a nutrient-rich diet for them. This study aimed to determine the effect on growth performance and protein content of mud crab using various natural feeds. It also aimed to determine the survival rate, low and high FCR of crabs, and assess the cost of producing crabs fed with different natural feeds. This study employed a completely randomized design that included three feed treatments: trash fish, horn snail, and copra. The cages had five compartments, with one mud crab in each of the compartments. The crab feeding system was based on the water level at which natural feeds were given to the crabs once or twice a day, with an amount adjusted to 5% of the crab's body weight. The results revealed that the highest growth performance in weight increment and protein content was seen in trash fish feed, with a feed conversion ratio of 6.90, indicating an efficient and high-quality feed. In addition, it also showed an impressive ROI of 33.26%, indicating it as a viable feed for fattening. Mud crabs fed with horn snail and trash fish exhibited an identical low mortality rate. In terms of sensory attributes of mud crab meat characteristics, mud crabs fed with copra had the highest mean in all categories; they produced very juicy, flavorful, soft, and acceptable crab meat.

Exploring the Potential of Novoecijanotake (Collybia Reinakeana) Cultivation Alongside Lettuce (Lactuca Sativa)

2025-04-15T15:28:16+00:00

Novoecijanotake is an edible mushroom with nutritional and medicinal benefits, while lettuce is a widely consumed leafy vegetable. The research aimed to determine the effects of intercropping these two crops on growth, yield, soil fertility, and economic viability. A field experiment was conducted in Barangay Biga, Gumaca, Quezon, from March 2024 to January 2025, using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three treatments: intercropping lettuce and Novoecijanotake, lettuce alone, and Novoecijanotake alone. Growth parameters, yield, soil conditions, and return on investment were measured. Results showed that lettuce grown alone had the highest yield and better growth compared to intercropping, where competition for resources limited lettuce growth. Mushroom growth was similar in both intercropping with lettuce and Novoecijanotake and Novoecijanotake alone, indicating that intercropping did not significantly benefit mushroom development. The economic analysis revealed that monocropping lettuce had the highest ROI (425%), while intercropping had a lower profit margin (50%). Overall, the study concluded that intercropping lettuce with Novoecijanotake is not ideal due to their differing growth requirements and competition for essential resources, while the mushrooms contributed to nutrient cycling. Future studies are recommended to explore other mushroom species or optimize intercropping techniques to improve compatibility and productivity.

Performance of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) as Affected by Biochar and Pig Manure Applications

2025-04-17T16:59:17+00:00

Eggplant (Solanum melongena) is an important vegetable valued for its nutritional and health benefits. The intensification of available land for cultivation has led to fertility depletion and low crop yield. Biochar is increasingly recognized as a soil amendment, while pig manure enhances crop quality and soil health. This study aimed to determine the effects of biochar and pig manure on eggplant performance. A 3×4 factorial combination of biochar levels (0, 2.5, and 5 t/ha) and fertilizer levels (0, 30, 60 kg N/ha of pig manure and 60 kg N/ha urea as a check) was evaluated in a randomized complete block design with three replicates. Eggplant (MERDAN 465 F1) seedlings were transplanted at 60 cm × 50 cm spacing. The results revealed that applying 5 t/ha of biochar and 60 kg N/ha of urea resulted in a significant increase in eggplant growth compared to the other treatments. Fruit yield was significantly higher with the application of 5 t/ha of biochar (2872.2 kg/ha) than with 0 t/ha (939.5 kg/ha) but similar to 2.5 t/ha (1931.1 kg/ha). Fruit yield for the biochar and fertilizer interaction ranged from 1462 kg/ha (5 t/ha biochar with 0 kg N/ha fertilizer) to 4450 kg/ha (5 t/ha biochar with 60 kg N/ha urea). However, the fruit yield for plants treated with 5 t/ha of biochar with 60 kg N/ha of urea was similar to that of 5 t/ha of biochar with 30 kg N/ha of pig manure application. Considering the environmental cost, applying 5 t/ha of biochar with 30 kg N/ha of pig manure was adequate for good eggplant performance.

The Influence of Poultry Manure Application on Eggplant (Solanum Aethiopicum L.) Tolerance to Weed Interference

2025-04-18T05:09:10+00:00

Garden egg is a vegetable valued for its nutritional and economic benefits. Its production is often constrained by poor soil fertility and weed competition interference. Improving soil fertility could enhance crop tolerance to weed competition. Therefore, this study investigates the influence of poultry manure (PM) on garden egg's resilience against weed competition. In a 4×2 factorial combination, PM at 0, 15, 30, and 45 kg N/ha represented as control, low, moderate, and high soil fertility conditions, respectively, and weed management (weedy check and regular weeding) were evaluated in a randomized complete block design replicated three times. Garden egg (L01 variety) seedlings were transplanted at 40,000 plants/ha. Data on growth and yield were subjected to ANOVA, and significantly different means were separated using Duncan's Multiple Range Test at p<0.05. The results showed that applying 45 kg N/ha of PM significantly increased plant height, number of leaves, and canopy spread compared to the other treatments in the first and second seasons. Variations in the growth parameters observed were significant (p < 0.05) for weed control. Weeded plots had 1274.67 and 1359.98 cm² leaf area, while non-weeded plots had 862.89 and 905.16 during the first and second seasons, respectively. The combination of 45 kg N/ha and regular weeding resulted in the highest fruit yield (6502.47 and 6004.10 kg/ha) and the lowest in the control treatment (0.00 and 125.00 kg/ha) in the first and second seasons, respectively. Applying poultry manure at 45 kg N/ha, with regular weeding, is more effective for garden egg production.

Medicinal Plants and their Applications in Poultry Production: A Review

2025-04-21T13:02:00+00:00

The presence of phytochemicals cannot be separated from medicinal plants; this is because they are active compounds that enable them to perform pharmacological or therapeutic activities in the bodies of animals. These compounds include flavonoids, phenols, tannins, terpenoids, alkaloids, and saponins, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-helminthic, anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, antifungal, antiviral, cytotoxic, and immune-stimulatory properties, among others. Phytochemicals are natural compounds, chemical-free, non-toxic, effective, and eco-friendly. Their concentrations in plants can be influenced by the age of the plant, species, geographical location, processing methods, and parts of the plants used. However, it is incorrect to assume that dietary supplementation of medicinal plants cannot be harmful to animals, especially when administered above the optimum level. Therefore, the essence of this review is to identify some of the medicinal plants that have been used to feed animals and to also identify their optimum levels. This will further help to address the increasing cases of antimicrobial resistance that have become a global threat and will also help to promote poultry production and food safety.

Use of Two Types of Bokashi and their Effect on Tomato Fruit Quality Variables

2025-04-23T16:35:17+00:00

Soil is the support and reservoir of nutrients. Excessive use of chemical fertilisers has led to its degradation, so modern agriculture has turned towards the incorporation of organic fertilisers. Organic fertiliser known as bokashi incorporates organic matter and nutrients into the soil. Hence, it has been reported that organic fertilisation effectively promotes plant growth and reproduction and can increase fruit quality. The aim of this study has been to apply two types of bokashi during tomato crop growth and to evaluate their effect on fruit quality variables. Initially, fertilisers were made and then applied to the soil. The applied treatments consisted of: T1: Bokashi added with bovine blood; T2: traditional Bokashi and T3: Control. Saladette tomato seedlings were transplanted, and thirty fruits were collected at random at harvest time; the following variables were measured: weight, polar diameter (PD), equatorial diameter (ED), percentage weight loss (%WL), °Brix, pH, titratable acidity, firmness and color. Results show better firmness and lower titratable acidity (TA) at T1; no significant differences were observed between treatments in the pH and °Brix variables; the highest color index (CI) was obtained with the T1 treatment, and no differences were observed in weight loss between treatments during the first five days of storage. Finally, it is concluded that the addition of bokashi promotes bigger fruits, does not influence the weight loss variable during the first five days of storage and does not negatively affect the quality of the fruit.