Basrah Journal of Agricultural Sciences

A Comprehensive Review of Modified Atmosphere Packaging for Poultry Meat: Effects on the Qualitative Characteristics and Shelf-Life Stability

Asaad R. Al-Hilphy — 2024-06-19

The aim of this article is to review applications of modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) in poultry meat. As well as, its effects on the qualitative characteristics and shelf-life stability. Packaging is a harmonized rule of preparing the product for transportation, dissemination, retail, and end-use to ensure safe delivery. MAP is modern packaging that includes air removal (78% N2, 21% O2, and 3% CO2 gas) from inside the casings and replacing them with a single gas or a mixture of gases. The atmosphere with a high concentration of O2 by 80 % leads to off-oxygenating the dye and keeps it from deteriorating on the surface of the meat. O2 causes oxidation of fat and protein, and decreases the quality of meat. The CO2 gas concentration and the casings composition significantly affect the change in the meat pH value. The decrease in oxygen in the packaging alters the meat colour from red to purple to convert the Oxymyoglobin to Deoxymyoglobin. Moreover, the consumer rejects this type of meat with a myoglobin tint. The colour stability using MAP has improved, and the Metmyoglobin configuration rate has decreased. MAP gave less moisture loss. The total and psychrophile bacterial populations in the poultry meat treated with MAP decreased and increased with the progress of storage periods. The TBA value, the peroxide value, and the fatty acid percentage decreased by using the MAP. MAP can be a part of Hurdle's technique to prolong the chicken meat shelf life.

Short Notes: First Report of a Co-Infection of Squash Vein Yellowing Virus and Tomato Leaf Curl Palampur Virus in Cucumber Plants in Iraq

Hawraa Alyasiry — 2024-06-19

Mosaic disease causes a serious epidemic of cucumber plants in Iraq. To investigate causal agents of such symptoms, whole genome and metatrancriptomic sequencing data were collected from pathogenic cucumber leaves. The result shows that Tomato leaf curl Palampur virus DNA-A and B were existed with 2,756 and 2,719 bp sequences that deposited under acc. numbers ON229618 and ON229620 respectively, and the isolate named Babylon1. Further, Squash vein yellowing virus was found with 9,832 bp sequence that deposited under acc. number ON229619, and the isolate called Iraq. Mixed infection reported here for the first time in cucumber in Iraq, highlighting the impact of such infection that threat the cucumber fields.

Short Notes: First Report of Cucurbite Aphid-Borne Yellows Virus in Iraq

Lubna Al-Ogaidi — 2024-06-19

Squash (Cucurbita pepo) fields in Mosul suffered from virus-like symptoms, such as vein clearing, severe mosaic, mottling, chlorosis, necrosis, stunting and fruit discoloration. The symptoms were associated with aphids presence in the infected fields. A metatranscriptomic analysis has been applied to detect the causal agent. The result showed that 559,024 mapped reads were related to Cucurbit aphid-borne yellows virus with full coverage to produce 5,662 bp consensus sequence. The virus sequence was deposited in National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) under accession number OQ865059, and the isolate named Iraq. For the first time in Iraq, the infection of the virus has been reported in squash, highlighting the impact of such virus infection that spread epidemically across the squash and other cucurbits fields.

Managing Dust Mite Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor) (Acari: Tetranchidae) Infesting Date Palm Orchards By Using Lemongrass Extract and Nanosulfur

Hazim M. Ali — 2024-05-12

The dust mite Oligonychus afrasiaticus (McGregor 1939) (Acari: Tetranychidae) poses a significant threat to date palm Phoenix dactylifera L. productivity in Iraq. To address this issue, a field study was conducted in a private date palm orchard in Al-Zubair district, Basrah province, Iraq, to assess the efficacy of some treatments in controlling the dust mite population on date palm fruits. The treatments included lemongrass extract, nanosulfur, a combination of lemongrass extract and nanosulfur, liquid sulfur, and a distilled water as control treatment. Treatments were applied by spraying on leaves and fruits at three dates: five weeks, eight weeks, and eleven weeks after pollination. Dust mite mortality rates were measured at intervals of 1, 3, 5, and 7 days after treatment application. Results revealed that the second date, eight weeks after pollination, exhibited the highest mortality rate of 76.77%, significantly outperforming other dates. Among the treatments, liquid sulfur showed the highest efficiency, with an 87.83% mortality rate, followed closely by the combination of lemongrass extract and nanosulfur (84.14%). Nanosulfur alone recorded a mortality rate of 79.26%, while lemongrass extract alone showed a mortality rate of 49.15%. The mortality rate increased over time, reaching 80.79% after 7 days and 65.76% after 1 day. In conclusion, liquid sulfur emerged as the most effective treatment for controlling the dust mite population on date palm fruits. The second date, eight weeks after pollination, was the optimal time for treatment application. These findings offer valuable insights into sustainable and environmentally friendly pest control strategies for date palm cultivation in Iraq.

Enhancing Quality Properties of Fresh Orange Juice through the Addition of Freeze-Dried Cassia javanica Extracts’ Coacervates

Mohamed I. Younis — 2024-05-12

This study investigated the impact of freeze-dried coacervates at various concentrations (0.5, 1, and 1.5%) on physicochemical and microbiological properties of orange juice. Either 60% ethanol freeze-dried coacervates (EFC) or absolute ethanol freeze-dried coacervates (AFC) were used. The addition of EFC or AFC to orange juice did not significantly (p<0.05) affect pH, viscosity, or electric conductivity, as pH was unchanged for a 0.5% concentration and slightly increased from 3.99 to 4.01 at 1% and 1.5% concentrations. After adding AFC and EFC, viscosity were 52, 53, and 53 mPas at 0.5, 1, and 1.5% concentrations, respectively. Electric conductivity increased from 0.278 s.m^-1 (control) to 0.334, 0.347, and 0.375 s.m^-1 at 0.5, 1, and 1.5% concentrations after adding EFC, while were 0.325, 0.335, and 0.373 s.m^-1 at the same concentration after adding AFC, respectively. However, after adding EFC, total phenolic content increased to 77.25, 115.96, and 154.95 mg.100mL^-1, total flavonoid content (TFC)increased to 34.76, 52.18, and 69.73 mg.100mL^-1, and antioxidant activity (AA) enhanced to 70.36, 74.36, and 79.58% at concentrations 0.5, 1, and 1.5%, respectively. Also, after adding AFC, total phenolic content increased to 79.26, 117.78, and 156.25 mg.100mL^-1, TFC increased to 35.67, 53.00, and 70.31 mg.100mL^-1, and AA enhanced to 71.65, 75.84, and 81.21% at concentrations 0.5, 1, and 1.5%, respectively. At concentrations 0.5, 1, and 1.5%, EFC decreased total plate count (TPC) to 2.12, 2.02, and 1.78 log cfu.mL^-1, respectively and mold and yeast counts decreased to 1.5, 1.35, and 1.1 log cfu.mL^-1, respectively. Also, adding AFC caused TPC to decrease to 2.18, 2.04, and 1.84 log cfu.mL^-1, respectively and mold and yeast count decreased to 1.53, 1.33, and 1.12 log cfu.mL^-1, respectively. Overall, the results indicate that adding EFC or AFC to fresh orange juice can enhance its nutritional and microbiological qualities without degrading its sensory qualities.

The Molecular Characterization of Local Bengkulu Ambon Banana Through Chloroplast Simple Sequence Repeats (SSR) Markers

Rini Suryani — 2024-05-15

This study aimed to explore the genetic diversity and molecular relationships of different genotypes of locally cultivated Bengkulu Ambon bananas. The investigation involved the utilization of chloroplast SSR markers and PCR techniques with 12 primers to examine 29 samples of Ambon bananas. The findings revealed monomorphic (uniform pattern) and polymorphic (varying patterns) DNA bands within the samples. In almost all samples, the monomorphic band pattern was found to be dominant at around 450 base pairs. Meanwhile, in 500 base pairs (primer 4), two different monomorphs were found.Additionally, primers 8 and 11 demonstrated multiple fragment band patterns, indicating the presence of polymorphism among the samples. The results of the dendogram analysis show that the level of similarity of all samples is relatively high. However, there are groups that represent genetic diversity. At a similarity level of 0.82 there are three clusters, four clusters at 0.85, seven clusters at 0.9 and so on. Of the 29 accessions studied, it is known that there are 11 samples that are completely genetically similar. This study provides valuable insights into the genetic diversity and relationships among locally cultivated Bengkulu Ambon bananas. The findings contribute to the existing knowledge regarding the molecular characteristics of these bananas and hold significance for conservation and breeding initiatives.

Effect of Different Feeds on Growth Rate and Survival of Common Carp (Cyprinus carpio L.) Larvae

Ahmed M. Mojer — 2024-05-15

The present study was conducted to evaluate the growth and survival rates of common carp (Cyprinus carpio) larvae fed different diets levels in laboratory Two-day-old larvae were transferred from the University of Basrah Marine Science Center hatchery to the Abi Al-Khaseeb district's experiment laboratory. The larvae were distributed into four treatments 450 larvae each treatment (150 larvae per replicate and three replicates per treatment) at a stock density of 3.33 larvae /L. The treatments were as follows: T1 was given boiling egg yolks; T2 was given a processed diet with 45% protein; T3 was given Redi-Lac milk powder; and T4 was given ground Artemia eggs. The experiment ran for 20 days, beginning on April 17, 2022.The results showed that larvae fed on diet containing ground Artemia eggs (T4) produced the highest final weight (39.667mg), followed by a diet containing 45% protein processed diet (T2), , Redi-Lac milk powder food (T3), and boiled egg yolks food (T1) produced the lowest final weight ( 27.333 and 24.667 mg, respectively) Statistical analysis revealed a significant difference (P≤0.05) in the final weight, weight gain, daily growth rate, relative growth rate and specific growth rate between T4 and T1, but not between T4 and T2 and between T4 and T3. The survival rate showed a significant difference (P≤0.05) between T4 (0.71%) and other treatments. Our results suggest that ground Artemia eggs is the most suitable and optimal meal for common carp fish larvae.

Using Geospatial Techniques to Analysis the Impact of Climate Change on Water and Agriculture Resources: Case study Khanaqin District in Diyala, Iraq

Ahmed B. Khalaf — 2024-05-15

The study area was classified into three categories (vegetation cover, water, and others)using four satellite images of the Landsat 8 satellite captured during March for the period 2019-2022 into. The results showed that there is a change in the climatic conditions (temperature and rainfall) for the years of the study. The average temperature increased from 12.29°C to 25.967°C from the year 2019 to 2022. The annual amount of precipitation was decreased from 469.43 mm for the year 2019 to 105.49 mm for the year 2022.this negatively changed affected the water and agricultural resources, as the amount of water storage for Lake Hamrin and Lake Al-Wand together reached to 2,314,584,000 m³ and 40,404,000 m³ for the years 2019 and 2022, respectively. This led to decrease in the vegetation area from 1587.29 km² to 356.17 for the year 2019 km² and 2022, respectively.

Some Genetic Variation Parameters of Iraqi Sheep Population Using SSR Markers in Babylon City

Hayder R. Alnajm — 2024-05-15

This study focuses on designing a conservation indigenous Awassi sheep breeding program based on the analysis of genetic variation using the simple sequence repeat markers (SSR). The allele frequency distribution of six SSR markers distributed on three different chromosomes was used to determine the genetic variation among 50 Awassi sheep (15 from the north, 20 from the middle, and 15 from the south of Babylon city) that were collected from the private herds. The results showed that the RM32 marker exhibited high frequency and the most genotypes existed compared to other markers. The mean number of alleles (NA), the effective number of alleles (NE), the Shannon index (I), and the polymorphism information content (PIC) values per loci were 2.66 ± 0.81, 2.05 ± 0.87, 0.73 ± 0.42, and 0.37± 0.26 respectively. Also, the average observed (Obs_Hom), expected (Exp_Hom) homozygosity, observed (Obs_Het), expected (Exp_Het) heterozygosity, Nei’s expected heterozygosity, and inbreeding coefficient (FIS) were 0.77± 0.18, 0.56 ±0.25, 0.23 ± 0.18, 0.44 ±0.25, 0.43± 0.24, and 0.41± 0.12, respectively. The results of the Bayesian analysis revealed that all populations were homogenous there was a clear overlap between the individuals of the three distinct clusters were formed. On this basis, we conclude that the indigenous Awassi sheep in Babylon city have reasonable genetic variation.

Molecular Identification of Morus ssp. in Duhok Using Nuclear ITS Region and Chloroplast Matk Gene

Dalal Y. Kh. Sinjare — 2024-05-17

Since Mulberries (Morus)is a tree species with a considerable plant variety. Molecular techniques are methods used to distinguish between species accurately, easily and quickly. This study examines a Molecular method for distinguishing different Morus species in the Duhok - Kurdistan region/ Iraq. The method is based on the use of four techniques: matK gene, the ITS region, PCR-RFLP, and SRAP markers. Twelve Morus species have been selected for this study from different region of Duhok. The ITS region's PCR result was 700 bp, but the matK gene's PCR produce was 900 bp. The same restriction site was found for all utilized cultivars when the 700bp of ITS fragment was used for PCR-RFLP with two restriction enzymes, RsaI GT/AC and HaeIII GG/CC. This study also used six combinations of SRAP markers to aid in grouping and identifying genetic similarities. The results of PCR-RFLP demonstrated an insufficient link between Morus physical appearance and genetic traits, but differences across studied cultivars could be identified using SRAP markers. Furthermore, this study demonstrated the possibility of DNA barcoding Morus cultivars, as well as additional sequence analysis and the identification of probable SNP between cultivars.

Sustainable Durum Wheat (Triticum durum) Production for Enhancing Food Security in Palestine

Yamen A. S. Hamdan — 2024-05-17

To enhance the productivity of durum wheat, it is crucial to disseminate new and improved wheat varieties along with other enhanced crop management practices. The NARC, NGOs and local universities in collaboration with the ICARDA, has implemented various activities in Palestine from 2014 to 2022 to achieve this goal. The study aims to assess the outcomes of the activities focused on enhancing durum wheat productivity through the dissemination of new varieties and the implementation of improved crop management practices. A total of 920 farmers participated in the initiative for disseminating improved durum wheat. Additionally, 47 tons of high-quality seeds were distributed for 183 farmers. The implementation included demonstrations of recommended agronomic practices. Furthermore, more than 50 farmers engaged in farmer-participatory demonstrations focused on adequate nutrient management, specifically composting. The outcomes of the durum wheat dissemination revealed a notable improvement in the productivity of three durum wheat varieties, demonstrating an increase of 11.5% to 19.7% in both grain and straw yields, respectively, when compared to the control variety. The overall benefit for the new varieties amounts to approximately 1230 US $ ha^-1, whereas the control stands at about 901 US $ ha^-1, indicating a notable increase of 36.51%. The seed producers produced a total of 340 tons of high-quality seeds and 490 tons of straw. The total benefit from the difference between the agronomic and farmers package was about 208 US $ per hectare. The average increase in grain yield was 5% for compost practices, while the increase for straw yield was about 13%.

Effect of Humic Acid and Ascorbic Acid on Seed Germination and Growth of Cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) under Salinity Stress

Abdul Maruf Yaquby — 2024-05-18

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of Humic Acid (HA) and Ascorbic Acid (AsA) on cucumber growth under different levels of soil salinity. The experiment was designed as a factorial, using a completely randomized design in the laboratory of Samangan University in Afghanistan. The levels of salinity stress were set at (0, 50, and 100mM sodium chloride) while AsA and HA were set at (0, 30, and 60mM and 0, 1 and 2. L^-l) respectively. The results of the analysis showed that the effect of all factors were significant on all studied traits. The highest mean daily germination (19%), root length (56.22mm), shoot length (39,06mm), fresh shoot weight (183.7mg), and seed vigor index were obtained from the (0mM salinity+60mM AsA+ 2g.L^-l HA) treatment. Also the most germination percentage (95%), fresh root (45.88mg) and dry root (13.76mg), observed in (50mM salinity+0mM AsA+ 2g.L^-l HA) treatment. However, the combined amounts of (60mM AsA+ 2g.L^-l HA) were more effective for reducing different levels of salinity and increasing the growth characteristics of cucumber. Also, 2g L^-l HA and 60mM AsA alone, were more effective. Treatments without AsA and HA showed the lowest growth in most traits. These findings suggest that the application of HA and AsA can help to improve cucumber growth under salt stress conditions.

Morphological, Biochemical and Proline-Related Genes Analyses in Resistant and Susceptible Wheat Cultivars in Iraq

Waleed K. Al-Saadi — 2024-05-18

A high salinity level negatively affects the morpho-physiological parameters of plants. As a result of salinity, these effects are considered crucial signs of plant damage. In this study, ten Iraqi wheat cultivars were examined against two salinity levels (3 and 15 ds m^-1) and some morphological, biochemical properties were measured. Also proline-related genes were analyzed using Ilumina RNA sequences and bioinformatics analyses. All cultivars demonstrated a decrease in the studied parameters with an increase saliness. 'Dijlah' cultivar showed best performance salinity stress, while 'Ibaa 99' was sensitive based on morphological and biochemical parameters. The competition was in favor of the sodium ion at the expense of the potassium ion in high salinity conditions. Proline accumulation in wheat blade leaves was about 2.5 times higher at the peak salt level. The transcriptomic analysis was done and the transcripts per million (TPM) values were estimated for some proline genes. The genes of probable proline transporter 2, proline dehydrogenase 2, and GSK-like kinase 1A obtained the higher TPM values in cultivar 'Dijlah' cultivar than in 'Ibaa 99' cultivar. It can be concluded that 'Dijlah' cultivar is a salt tolerant cultivar as compare with the susceptible 'Ibaa 99' cultivar, and their proline accumulation was increased with salinity stress and was related with TPM values. Morphological, biochemical and TPM values would offer a good combined- criteria for recognition the tolerant genotype.

Response of Grafted Olive (Olea europaea L. Cv. Coratina) to Water Deficit Conditions

El Said S. Hegazi — 2024-05-18

Drought is one of the most damaging abiotic stresses; water deficit problem is increasingly occurring due to global climate change and negatively affects crop growth and productivity. Grafting on tolerate rootstocks is a promise approach to mitigate negative impacts of drought stress and ensure production sustainability. The present study was carried out to investigate the effect of water deficit stress on Coratina olive plants grafted on the following cultivars as rootstocks (Coratina, Koroneiki, Manzanillo, Picual and Sorani). Three water levels based on soil field capacity (FC) (100, 50% and 25% of FC) were used for water deficit treatments. Water deficit decreased shoot growth, stem diameter, leaves number and area, shoot and root weight. Leaf analysis showed marked decrease in total chlorophyll content while proline, total sugars and phenolic content increased with increasing water deficit level. The studied grafting combination differed in their response to water deficit treatments; Coratina grafted on Sorani and Koroneiki recorded higher values of growth parameters and accumulated higher amount of osmolytes (proline and total sugars) and phenolic compared to other grafted olive plants.

Some Amino Acids Affect the Response of Grape (Vitis vinifera L.) Single Nodules In Vitro Multiplication

Waad S. Faizy — 2024-05-18

Organic nitrogen, which comes from amino acids, is absorbed and transported more rapidly than inorganic nitrogen by plant cells and tissues. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of some amino acids on the response of single nodes of grape Vitis vinifera L. Superior and Red globe cultivars were classified for in vitro multiplication to develop an efficient protocol for propagation of these two valuable species. The study included two experiments: first, the effect of adding three concentrations (0, 0.5, and 1) mg L^-1 of Benzyl Adenine (BA) to the MS medium in the initiation stage. The second investigation utilized three amino acid types (glutamine, asparagine, and methionine) at five concentrations (0, 10, 20, 40, and 80) mg L^-1 added to MS medium containing 2 mg L^-1 of BA. Results indicated that the most significant newly initiated shoots (2.40 and 2.88) and the largest leaves number (7.90 and 5.88) for both cultivars, Superior and Red globe, respectively were obtained in a medium with 1 mg L^-1of BA. The multiplication results in eight weeks after cultivation showed that adding amino acid glutamine at 10 mg L^-1 significantly increased the number of shoots/explant (6.60 and 6.00) and (29.50 and 38.30) leaves/explant for Red globe and Superior, respectively. The high amino acid concentrations (40 and 80) mg L^-1 significantly reduced the studied growth parameters, especially the number of newly formed shoots. The results obtained from the present study exhibited the possibility of applying this modified protocol to the propagation of selected grape cultivars to encourage the expansion of the grape-growing industry in Iraq.

A Study of the Physical, Chemical, and Biologically Active Properties of Avocado Pulp (Persea americana), and Its Use in the Preparation of Some Functional Dairy Products

Rawaa H. Tlay — 2024-05-19

This research conducted with the aim of manufacturing healthy products (yoghurt and local cream cheese) rich in bioactive compounds and healthy fatty acid using avocado fruit pulp. Avocado pulp used in the manufacture of yoghurt at two, four, and six percent, and the yoghurt stored at 4ﹾ C for seven days. Local cream cheese was handmade by replacing animal butter with 15% avocado pulp. The content of phenolic compounds in fresh avocado pulp determined using HPLC, where it was found to be rich in kaempferol 30.88 ppm, ferulic acid 30.25 ppm, apigenin 22.58 ppm, quercetin 18.98 ppm, and P-coumaric acid 12.66 ppm, as well as rich in some fatty acids: oleic 59.58%, palmitic 17.58%, and α-linolenic 18.05%. Compared to the control sample at the first day of storage, the avocado-fortified yoghurt led to an increase in antioxidant activity by 10.86%, 25.12%, and 34.63%, and in total phenolic content by 129.55%, 343.18%, and 404.55%. The yoghurt sample at four percent was the most accepted in texture, taste, flavor, and general acceptance, and the avocado added a buttery, astringent, and distinct taste to the avocado-fortified samples. Also, the manufactured of local cream cheese by avocado led to a decrease in moisture and fat, and an increase in acidity and total solids, and it was possible to obtain a low-fat functional food with high nutritional value. Results showed that supporting yoghurt with avocado had a positive effect on reducing the total number of microorganisms and was free of molds, yeasts, and coliform growths during storage.

Productive Performance, Hatching Egg Quality and Health Indices of Hisex Brown Laying Hens Fed Extruded Grain Amaranth

Ivan F. Gorlov — 2024-05-19

The article presents results proving the feasibility of extruded amaranth grain (Amaranthus cruentus) in feeding breeding laying hens of the Hisex Brown cross (aged 25-45 weeks). Due to improvements in the quality indicators of hatching eggs, such as weight (2.09%; P<0.01), Haugh units (1.07%; P<0.05), and shell thickness strengthened (5.0 µm; P<0.05) to 362 µm, it was possible to increase egg laying intensity by 1.81%, hatching egg yield by 2.20%, and hatching of chickens by 1.33% with the addition of 5% extruded grain to the diet structure. In the test group, there was an 11.66% (P<0.05) reduction in cholesterol in the yolk of eggs. The test group's hemoglobin concentration rose by 4.16% (P<0.05) in comparison to the control group's blood, while the test group's lymphocyte and segmented neutrophil levels decreased by 1.65% (P<0.05) and 1.93% (P<0.05), respectively. These results demonstrated the high efficacy of the feed under investigation in preserving the immune status of breeding chickens during the first productivity phase. The chicken body exhibited a high level of antioxidant activity as evidenced by the rise in superoxide dismutase activity by 8.85% (P<0.05), the total amount of antioxidants by 21.66% (P<0.01), and the decrease in malonaldehyde by 13.52% (P<0.05) in the test group. Analysis of the microbiome of the cecum in the colon revealed an increase in bacteria of Bifidobacteriales and Lactobacillales by 46.93 (P<0.01) and 25.54% (P<0.01), as well as a rise in Ruminococcaceae by 15.87% (P<0.01), in the test group compared with the control group.

Investigation on Field Performance of Plowing and Harvesting Potatoes in Southern Baghdad

Ahmed A. A. Hamid — 2024-05-19

This field experiment, was conducted to investigate a comparison of two methods for harvesting potatoes: mechanical and handy when using moldboard and chisel plow for primary tillage and three different distances for planting tubers in the rows 15, 25, and 35 cm in silt clay loam soil south of Baghdad. The factorial experiment followed a randomized complete block design with three replications using L.S.D. 5 % and 1 %. Mechanical harvest recorded the best valid potato tubers at 88.78 %, marketable yield of 31.74 ton. ha^-1, efficiency lifted 95.68 %, tubers damage index 28.41, speeding up the harvesting process and reducing time and effort. Handy harvest gave the least damage to potato tubers, 6.02 %, and unlifted potato tubers, 4.32 %. However, this method requires effort and more specialized labor, whether from men or young women, and leaded to delays in the harvesting process. Regarding planting distance of 15 cm between one tuber and another gave the highest total productivity, 46.92 ton. ha^-1 and the greatest number of plants, but most of the tubers were small in size. A planting distance 25 cm produced good quality in size of potatoes with yield of 36.19 ton. ha^-1, 90.99 % best valid tubers, 5.43 % least total damage tubers, 3.57 % least unlifted potato, 96.42 % best efficiency lifting, and least tuber damage index 22.39. Most interaction among the treatments was significant. The most influential factor in the experiment traits was the planting distances of potatoes in the rows. The shape of the potatoes was Spheroid. Mechanical potato harvesting saves effort saves effort, time, harvest speed, reduce the labors and increasing efficiency.

Evaluating Land Suitability for Wheat Cultivation Criteria Analysis Fuzzy-AHP and Geospatial Techniques in Northern Basrah Governorate

Mustafa S. A. Almayyahi — 2024-05-19

Land suitability assessment is essential for planned land management strategies aimed at preserving soil and increasing productivity while ensuring sustainable agricultural production. Land degradation resulting from poor land management and fallowing practices typically leads to low land productivity in Iraq. To maintain agricultural productivity in the targeted area, agricultural requirements must align with available resources through land suitability analysis. In the northern region of Basrah Governorate in Iraq, the study focused on integrating GIS-based land suitability analysis with the fuzzy-analytical hierarchy process (F-AHP) approach. The analysis revealed varying suitability categories throughout the study area, with the largest proportion of unsuitable areas found in category N2, covering 31,202.36 hectares (37.76%), and category N1, currently unsuitable, covering an area of 19,956.24 hectares (24.15%). On the other hand, the moderately suitable category (S3) covered 8,297.26 hectares (10.04%), while the moderately suitable category (S2) covered 23,177.79 hectares (28.05%) of the total study area. No highly suitable lands were identified. The key determining factors for the suitability of lands for wheat cultivation were high values of electrical conductivity, carbonate minerals, bulk density, and low organic carbon content. Most agricultural lands are being used in a manner that contradicts their suitable potentials in the study area. Therefore, the pattern of agricultural land use needs to be adjusted based on their current potentials to reduce soil degradation.

Inhibitor Properties of Rue (Ruta graveolens L.) on Spermatogenesis in Guppy Poecilia reticulata Peters, 1859

Ali M. Kane — 2024-05-19

This study was conducted to investigate the effect of Rue (RE), a medicinal herb having anti-androgenic characteristic on the sexuality of guppy males. In total, 120 males were selected randomly, acclimated and divided equally into four groups that received the RE ethanolic extract at 0, 1, 10 and 100 mg.kg-1, respectively for 30 days. The findings revealed that 100 mg.kg^-1 had significantly lower whole-body testosterone levels than control. Furthermore, males administered RE at all doses had a significantly lower gonopodial index than the control group. Whereas, administration of RE at 10 and 100 mg.kg^-1 causes a lowering in sperm counts than the control group. Regarding with histopathological examination, the testes of control males were well-differentiated with an increase in spermatozeugmata proportion at all spermatogenesis stages with a significant proportion of cystic structures containing spermatozoa. On the other hand, RE-fed animals showed a dose-dependent decrease in spermatozeugmata and an increase in spermatocytes' number of ducts, indicating the role of RE in reducing the development of guppy’s spermatogenesis. In conclusion, Rue can impact the sexual parameters of adult guppy males by confirming the anti-androgenic properties of RE.

Biochemical Responses of Date Palm Phoenix dactylifera L. to Combined Stress of Salinity and Nickel

Hassanain M. Gabash — 2024-06-18

This study examined the effects of nickel (Ni) at 0, 25, and 50 mg.L^-1 concentrations, applied alone or in combination with salinity (represented by NaCl at 0, 100, and 200 mM concentrations), on the biochemical traits of date palm. Hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), malondialdehyde (MDA), membrane stability index (MSI), peroxidase (POD) activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD), and proline content were among the parameters evaluated. The results revealed significant effects of nickel and salinity on the studied biochemical markers. Nickel at 50 mg.L^-1 significantly increased H₂O₂ (0.87 µmol. L^-1) and MDA (2.46 nmol.g^-1) levels, while decreasing MSI (75.85%). Moreover, it enhanced POD (25.09 U.min^-1.g^-1) and SOD (3.78 U. min^-1.g^-1) activity, as well as proline content (4.35 µmol.g^-1). Salinity at 200 mM significantly increased H₂O₂ (0.90 µmol L^-1) and MDA (2.54 nmol.g^-1) levels, decreased MSI (77.69%), and increased POD (27.61 U. min^-1.g^-1) and SOD (3.77 U.min^-1.g^-1) activity, along with increased proline content (4.54 µmol.g^-1). Additionally, the combined application of nickel and salinity, particularly at higher concentrations, resulted in significantly increased biochemical responses compared to individual treatments. The findings highlight the interactive effects of nickel and salinity on the oxidative and antioxidant mechanisms in date palm plants. This study contributes to our understanding of plant responses to abiotic stressors and provides insights for optimizing date palm cultivation under challenging environmental conditions.

The Composition and Diversity Indices of the Fish Assemblage in the Tidal Mudflats of the Shatt Al-Arab Estuary in the Northwest Arabian Gulf

Adil F. Abbas — 2024-06-18

Ten thousand four hundred and thirty-five fish were collected from January 2021 to February 2022, belonging to 71 species distributed across 39 families and 20 orders. The study included the tidal zone of the Shatt al-Arab estuary in the northwest of the Arabian Gulf. Two methods used to collection the fishes; fixed gill nets and trowel nets. Various diversity indices, relative abundance, and richness were assessed. Several biodiversity indices were used to assess the area biologically and ecologically which Species diversity for Shannon and Simpson, species richness for Margalef and Menhinick, dominance for Berger-Parker, species similarity for Jaccard, numerical similarity for Bray – Curtis, and evenness for Peilou index. Nematalosa nasus had the highest relative abundance, which was recorded at 24.53%. However, the lowest relative abundance was observed for 20 species, with a value of 0.01% with only one individual. The Carangiformes had the highest percentage of 18.31% and the lowest percentage of 1.41 % for many orders only, with one species recorded. The Margalef index had its highest value on June 5.24 and its lowest on December 1.24. The Menhinick index had its highest value of 1.53 in October and its lowest value of 0.71 in November. The Shannon Index reached a peak of 2.69 in January 2021, and fell to 0.98 in September. The Simpson index recorded the highest value of 0.92 in January 2021 and the lowest value of 0.37 in September. The Peilou index reached its highest value of 0.965 in December, while its lowest value was 0.294 in September. The Jaccard index had its highest value of 0.667 between January 2021 and March, while its lowest value was 0.079 between December, June, and July. The highest value for the Bray-Curtis index occurred between July and August, reaching 0.644. In contrast, the lowest value observed was 0.005 between July and December.

Effect of Plumage Colour on The Productive and Physiological Performance of Two Lines of Turkey During Egg Production Period

Sajida A. Al-Shaheen — 2024-06-18

Using 32 hens from two turkey lines; broad-breasted bronze (BBB) and bourbon red (BR), this study assessed how plumage colour affects egg production and physiological functions during (26-40) weeks of observation. A total of 32 hens, namely 16 hens from the BBB line and 16 hens from the BR line, were bred from 26 weeks up to 40 weeks of age. According to our results, BBB line significantly (p≤0.05) outperformed BR line in terms of body weight at first egg production, feed intake, and yolk diameter during the study period. A significantly (p≤0.05) higher feed conversion ratio, an increased egg mass, a higher production rate of hen-day eggs, and a higher rate of albumen was achieved by the BR line. It is, however, noteworthy that the age at first egg production, the egg weight, the egg mass, the yolk weight, the yolk percentage, the albumen weight, the shell weight percentage, the egg shell thickness, width, and length, the shape index, yolk height and yolk index were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were not significantly (p≥0.05) different between the two lines at 24 and 36 weeks of age when eggs were produced. Both turkey lines presented in the current study can potentially be raised in Iraq, as well as used as hens to produce hatching eggs and for genetic improvement.

Food Additive Mediated Biosynthesis of AgNPs with Antimicrobial Activity Against Hypermucoviscous Enterotoxigenic Foodborne Klebsiella pneumoniae

Marwa H. AlKhafaji — 2024-06-18

This study was aimed to adopt an ecofriendly method to synthesize nanoparticles with an effective antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity. A food origin hypermucoviscous Klebsiella pneumoniae was isolated from food samples and identified using biochemical tests and the Vitek system. A string test was depended on to identify hypermucoviscous isolates. Enterotoxicity of foodborne hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae isolates was detected phenotypically using suckling mouse bioassay. Biofilm forming ability was tested for all the isolated bacteria using the Microtiter plate method and Congo Red Agar. A natural food additive Syzygium aromaticum (clove) aqueous extract was used for the biosynthesis of silver nanoparticles in optimized conditions. The biosynthesized clove-silver nanoparticles (Clove-AgNps) were characterized by several techniques, and their antimicrobial and antibiofilm activity was determined. The results of this study revealed that the isolation of 28 K. pneumoniae isolates were isolated from 200 food samples. String test results showed that 16/28 (57.14%) K. pneumoniae isolates were hypermucoviscous. Eleven of these isolates (68.75%) were enterotoxigenic. Using clove aqueous extract as a biological agent was successful in the biosynthesis of AgNPs with an average diameter of 14.12 nm as measured by AFM. The optimum biosynthesis conditions were: 1mM of AgNO3 concentration, pH 7, at 37 °C, and 24 hours. The minimum inhibitory concentration of the clove-AgNPs was detected as 62.5 µg.mL^-1. Sub-inhibitory concentration of 31.25 µg.mL^-1 of Clove-AgNPs resulted in: 91% decrease in the formed biofilm. It can be concluded that using Syzygium aromaticum is an effective ecofriendly method for AgNPs biosynthesis with excellent antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity against enterotoxigenic hypermucoviscous K. pneumoniae.