Basrah Journal of Agricultural Sciences

Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Using Bassia eriophora Plant, Testing their Antibacterial Activity and Cytotoxicity

Hajar H. Al-Noor — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The present study was designed to synthesize silver nanoparticles using the Bassia eriophora (gteena) plant and evaluate their antibacterial efficacy against antibiotic-resistant bacterial species. Additionally, the toxicity of these synthesized nanoparticles was assessed. This research was carried out in the laboratories of the College of Education for Pure Sciences at the University of Basra. AgNPs were synthesized using B. eriophora extract as a reducing and capping agent. Hence, it eliminates the need for hazardous chemicals. The characteristics of produced AgNPs were assessed using several methods. These methods include dynamic light scattering (DLS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), Zeta potential test, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). The findings validated the creation of polydispersed and quasi-spherical synthetic nanoparticles with sizes between 39.23 and 60.90 nm. Analytical tests of the active components identified 43 compounds using GC-MS analysis, with arsenous acid tris(trimethylsilyl) ester constituting the greatest proportion at 36.1567%. The AgNPs exhibited significant antimicrobial efficacy against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, including Proteus mirabilis (20-15 mm), Salmonella spp. (18 mm), Pseudomonas aeruginosa (17-15 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (13-13 mm), as well as Shigella spp, and Escherichia coli (15 mm). A human red blood cell lysis assay evaluated the toxicity of nanoparticles. They reveal no hemolysis in the 10 doses tested throughout the experiment. It was determined that AgNPs containing Bassia B. eriophora greatly enhanced their antibacterial properties and cytotoxicity.

Diesel Engine Efficiency under Varying Loads and Engine Oil Contaminated with Safe levels of Glycol

Haider A. Hasan, Saif A. K. M. Al-Sumaidaee, Ali M. Abdul-Munaim — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Abstract: Although allowable amounts of glycol contamination in diesel engine oil, no research has been conducted on how these levels and varying loads affect engine performance The research used a four-stroke diesel engine to investigate the effect of different glycol contamination levels (0, 120, and 220 ppm) under two engine loads (4.5 and 9 kW). Brake specific fuel consumption, brake thermal efficiency, friction power, and exhaust gas temperature were measured to determine the engine performance. The experiment used the factorial arrangement in a completely randomized design (CRD) with three replicates. Increasing the contamination levels from 0 to 120 and then to 220 ppm under constant engine load significantly increased brake specific fuel consumption, friction power, and exhaust gas temperature and decreased brake thermal efficiency. Increasing the engine load from 4.5 to 9 kW with constant oil glycol contamination levels significantly increased brake thermal efficiency, friction power, and exhaust gas temperature and decreased brake specific fuel consumption. The results of the statistical analysis showed significant differences in the interaction between glycol contamination levels and load levels. Lower friction power (5.6 kW) and exhaust gas temperature (165.33 °C) were produced by combining the first contamination level (0 ppm) with the first load (4.5 kW), while the lowest brake specific fuel consumption (0.24 kg/kWh) and highest brake thermal efficiency (32.14%) were produced by combining the first contamination level (0 ppm) with the second load (9 kW). The study concluded that diesel engine performance decreases when engine oil is exposed to the permissible levels of contamination above with changes in engine load. This study can aid diesel engine maintenance and operational instructions, particularly in glycol-contaminated diesel engine oil.

The Critical Changes in Composition of Diatoms Community in East Hammar Marsh, Southern Iraq

Maitham A. Al-Shaheen, Dunya A. Al-Abbawy , Sarah S. Al-Ahmady — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Diatoms have dominance in most Iraqi aquatic environments, such as in the Al-Hammar Marsh in southern Iraq, thus they are reflecting the quality of water and environmental factors prevailing in their places of residence. The East Hammar marsh in southern Iraq has experienced substantial environmental changes especially the high temperature and salinity during the last decades. Water quality has deteriorated which has impacted the living species that reside there, the most important of which are diatoms. During August 2018 to April 2019, qualitative and quantitative characteristics of the planktonic and epiphytic diatoms were studied in the East Hammar marsh at three sites, Al-Sadda, Al-Salal, and Al-Burka. During this investigation, 69 taxa belonging to 37 genera were identified and documented. Diatom assemblages contained 30% of brackish water forms, 21 % of marine-brackish water species, 16 % of fresh species, 10% of marine water species, and the remaining 23% had varied ecological preferences ranging from fresh to marine forms. Marine-brackish water species predominate during the summer, whereas freshwater species predominate during the winter.

Comparative study of upper and lower leaf epidermis and trichomes in some species belong to Malvaceae family

Sadeq S.K. Al-Taie, Sahar A.A.M. Al-Saadi — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

: Leaf characteristics of four genera represented by nine species belonging to the family Malvaceae were examined: Althaea ludwigii L., Gossypium herbaceum L., Hibiscus cannabinum L., H. sabdariffa L., H. rosa-sinensis L., H. tiliaceus L., Malva sylvestris L., M. nicaeensis All., and M. parviflora L. The results reveal differences in the shape of anticlinal wall cells, stomatal frequency, stomatal index, and trichome types among the species. Additionally, the shape of the anticlinal wall cells is straight in A. ludwigii, G. herbaceum, H. sabdariffa and H. tiliaceu species; sinuate in H. cannabinum and H. rosa-sinensis and undulate or strongly undulate in Malva species. On average epidermal cells in the upper epidermis of M. sylvestris were 91.25 µm long, while on average, they were 27.18 µm long in H. tiliaceus. The current results identified five different stomatal patterns: anomocytic (rununculaceous); hemiparacytic; paracytic; anisocytic (cruciferous) and diacytic. Trichomes on the leaves are recognized as unicellular non-glandular in M. parviflora, M. nicaeensis, and M. sylvestris, glandular in H. rosa-sinensis, G. herbaceum, and H. sabdariffa, and stellate hairs in M. nicaeensis, M. parviflora, M. sylvestris and A. ludwigii. The stomatal index varies between species and on the upper and lower epidermis. The highest stomatal index was 50.98 in H. sabdariffa on the lower surface and the lowest 7.11 on the upper surface.

Effect of nanoparticles on the Almond (Prunus amygdalus) tree flower fertilization

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This article presents the results of the effects of SiO2 and Fe3O4 nanoparticles on flowering, flower fertilization and nanoparticle accumulation in flower petals and almond fruit. The results showed that under normal conditions, 80% and 30% of the total number of flower buds in the almond varieties Leyla and Nuray form flowers. However, the fertilization of flowers in both varieties is only about 21.1%. The application of Fe3O4 nanoparticles increases flower formation by 86% in Leyla and 53.4% in Nuray, and the fertilization of the formed flowers by 44.5% in Leyla and 27.4% in Nuray compared to the control. The application of SiO2 nanoparticles increases flower formation by 78% in Leyla and 31.3% in Nuray, and the fertilization by 22.2% in Leyla and 46.8% in Nuray compared to the control. TEM analysis revealed that these particles bioaccumulated in all three layers (seed, endocarp and mesocarp) and that more pathologies occurred in the endocarp and mesocarp layers. Experimental results showed that nanoparticles did not affect fruit morphology. While Fe3O4 nanoparticles increased net seed yield by 3% in the Leyla variety, SiO2 nanoparticles reduced it by 2%, but no difference was observed in the Nuray variety.

Response of two cauliflower cultivars Brassica oleracea var. botrytis to foliar spray of growth stimulant Atonic in growth and yield

Zainab A. Al-sudani, Omar A. Ibrahim , Abdulla A. Abdulla — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The study was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, College of Agriculture, University of Basrah, in the Karmat Ali area during the winter agricultural season of 2022-2023. To study the response of two cauliflower cultivars Alnahar and White flake to spray with the growth stimulant Atonic at the concentrations 0, 1.5, and 3 ml L^-1 on the growth and yield. The results showed that the Alnahar cultivars were significantly superior in leaf area, curd weight and total yield, in contrast, the White flake cultivars were significantly superior in the fresh and dry weights of the plant, its content of chlorophyll and carotene pigments, curd diameter, dry matter percentage and total soluble solids in the curd. Spraying with the growth stimulant Atonik at a concentration of 3 ml L^-1 led to a significant increase in the plants number of leaves, fresh and dry plant, curd weight, total yield, dry matter percentage and total soluble solids in the curd. The interaction between the two factors significantly affected some growth traits. Vegetative and quantitative and qualitative yield components: Alnahar plants sprayed with Atonik growth stimulant at a concentration of 3ml L^-1 gave the highest curd weight and total yield of 2.012 kg and 53.11 tons ha^-1, respectively.

Detection the Expression of two Genes ZmWRKY86 and PMP3 responsible for tolerance to salt stress in maize

Hiba H. Taha, Najwa I. Khaleel, Amjad A. Mohammed — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The current study measured the expression of certain genes responsible for the tolerance of the maize (Zea mays L.) to salt stress when it was grown in soil containing (0.0,25, 50,75,100 mmol) sodium chloride (NaCl) for 30 days. The results indicated that the germination percentage decreased with the increased salt concentration. Isolated ribonucleic acid (RNA) from young leaves of maize seedlings was used as a template for manufacturing a piece of complementary nucleic acid (cDNA), gene expression was measured by Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) for both PMP3 and ZmWRKY86 genes responsible for salinity stress tolerance. The expression level of the PMP3 gene increased with increasing salt concentration and reached 1.38 and 1 .86 at concentrations of 50 and 75 mmol, respectively, but decreased with increasing salt concentration to 100 mmol by 0.34%. The expression of the second gene ZmWRKY86 was increased with increasing salt concentration and reached a maximum level of 3.18 at 100 mmol of NaCl.

Evaluation of the Phytochemical Contents of Two Iraqi Date Palm Fruit Extracts (Phoenix dactylifera L. cvs. Berhi and Bream) and Assessment for Their Antioxidant Capacities

Duha Z. Al-Basiri, Ausama. A. Jaccob, Muhsin S.Gh. AL-Moziel — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This paper aimed to measure the bioactive components in the extracts of two date palm cultivars (Berhi and Bream), including flavonoids, phenols, tannins, and carotene, and assess their antioxidant potential. This investigation was carried out in a laboratory at the pharmacognosy department of the College of Pharmacy on October 2023, at the University of Basrah, Iraq. Both qualitative and quantitative phytochemical analytical methods were used in the research, including an estimate of carotene, total polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, and primary phytochemical assays. as well as evaluation of their scavenging capacity using DPPH to determine their antioxidant activity in extracts from two date palm cultivars. The phosphomolybdate solution was used to measure the total antioxidants. Results: These studies showed that the fruits of the Berhi and Bream date palms cultivars have a high phenolic content, presented in milligrams for each gram from the extract, including total flavonoid content for Berhi and Bream cultivars 0.450mg, 0.333mg, total phenolic content 2.71mg for both varieties, total tannin content 0.2mg, 0.1mg, total carotene content 38.3microgram, 59.3microgram, furthermore IC50 and p-value were estimated for two cultivars 0.16 with p-value 0.189 for Berhi, 0.19 with p-value 0.234 for Bream. Conclusion: our study improved the antioxidant activity of both date palm cultivars making them suitable natural alternatives for synthetic products and promising candidates for the nutraceutical industries.

Molecular and Chemical Diagnosis of Curcumin ‏Compound and Study its Antioxidant Activity in Two Varieties of Curcuma longa L. Plants

Widad A. Abd Al-Behadili, Fatimah A. Hasan, Taha Sh. Ahmed, Salah H. Faraj — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

In this work, the Curcumin synthase 1 (CURS1) gene from Curcuma longa L., which plays an important role in the biosynthesis of the curcumin compound, was chosen. The objectives were to identify the genetic variations of CURS1 in two turmeric plant varieties (NDH-98 and GNT-2) and their relationship with curcumin content. Using DNA sequencing technology, the results were analyzed, and the three-dimensional structure of the CURS1 protein was modeled in silico. The primer employed in this investigation amplified 900 bp fragments of the CURS1 gene. A single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was identified in the first exon (g.850 C>G), which resulted in a change in the three-dimensional structure of the protein due to the substitution of the amino acid threonine with arginine. Haplotype and nucleotide diversity values were 1.00 and 0.00169, respectively. This investigation involved a relative measurement of the putative CURS1 gene using DNA sequencing from the roots of GNT-2, compared to NDH-98, and an HPLC-assisted curcumin measurement for the two varieties. The amount of curcumin in the rhizomes of GNT-2 was 784.0 µg g-1, while in NDH-98, it was 712.1 µg g-1. The DPPH assay, which evaluates the free radical scavenging capacity of extracts, revealed that the methanolic fraction of Curcuma longa (NDH-98 and GNT-2) demonstrated a significant capacity to inhibit free radicals, with an IC50 value exceeding 125% of the total extract's capacity. Consequently, the methanolic extracts of NDH-98 and GNT-2 exhibited significant effects in the DPPH assay for scavenging free radicals, and regulating vitamin D levels.

Impact of Supplementation of Probiotic or Prebiotic in the diet on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, and rumen parameters of Iraqi goats’ kids

Maithem K.A. AL-Galiby, Raghdan H. Mohsin, Hanaa A. J. Al-Galbi — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study was conducted to assess the effects of probiotic or prebiotic dietary supplements on the nutrient digestibility, rumen fermentation characteristics and productive performance of local Iraqi goat kids. A concentrate feed mixture (CFM) and alfalfa hay were provided to the kids in the control group. Kids in T1 and T2 groups received CFM supplemented with probiotics or prebiotics at a rate of 3 g/head/day, respectively. Fifteen males’ Iraqi local kids aged three months and weighed 16.22 kg ± 2.3 were used. The kids were randomly assigned into the three nutritional groups. Kids fed probiotics show superiority to those in the control group in their final body weight, total gain, average daily gain, total feed intake and feed conversion ratio (5.84 vs 6.65 kg/ kg). The group that received probiotic supplements had the highest Dry matter, organic matter, crude protein, crude fiber, and ether extract digestibility. pH, total VFA and propionate% increased with the addition of probiotics or prebiotics compared to the control group. Whereas, the control group recorded the highest acetate% followed by the probiotics (63.27%) and prebiotics group (64.26%). The total bacterial count of the probiotics group was higher than that of the prebiotics or a control group. Feeding growing kids rations supplemented with probiotics or prebiotics at a rate of 3 g/head/day has a positive impact on the growth performance, rumen parameters, digestibility coefficients, and rumen microbes of Iraqi goats.

Impact of Superabsorbent Polymer and Irrigation Intervals on Biochemical Characteristics of Tissue Culture- Derived Date Palm Phoenix dactylifera L. cv. Barhi Grown Under Drought Stress

Noor Al-Huda J. Mohsen, Mohammed A.H. Al-Najjar, Dhia A. Taain — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study was conducted on 5-year-old tissue culture-derived date palm cv. Barhi to investigate the impact of superabsorbent polymer with three dosages (0, 250, 500) grams per tree and irrigation intervals of (5, 10, 30) days on biochemical characteristics of the leaves. A randomized complete block design was used in a factorial experiment (3x3) with three replicates. Results showed that the 500 g tree‾¹ polymer dosage had a significant effect on total soluble carbohydrates, while the 250 g tree‾¹ polymer dosage was superior to the other dosages in enhancing superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzyme activity. Findings also showed that control treatment (0 g tree‾¹ polymer dosage) was the best in increasing total phenol, peroxidase (POD) activity, amino acids and proline. As for the effect of irrigation periods, the 30-day irrigation interval significantly affected total phenol, SOD and POD activities, amino acids and proline by recording the highest values compared to the rest irrigation periods, whereas the 5-day irrigation period outperformed the others in increasing of total soluble carbohydrates in leaves. The interaction between 0 g tree‾¹ polymer dosage irrigation every 30 days gave the highest rate of proline (10.123 μg g‾¹), while the treatment of 500 g tree‾¹ polymer and the irrigation every 5 days gave the lowest rate (3.897) μg g‾¹.

Identification of Cucurbitacin E Accumulated in Leaves and Fruits of the Iraqi Citrullus colocynthis During Two Seasons with Antioxidant Activity

Hind E. Mohammed, Ula M.N. Al-Mousawi, Amjed H. Khamees, Haider AL Wafi — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The experiment was conducted by the Department of Pharmacognosy and Medicinal plants, College of Pharmacy, Basrah university during the agricultural season of 2023-2024, to investigate the content of cucurbitacin E in various portions of Citrullus colosynthis (leaves and fruits). The hot continuous method by reflux apparatus was used to extract the leaves and fruits of plant with different solvents, including chloroform and hexane. Cucurbitacin E is identified by thin-layer chromatography (TLC). The concentration of cucurbitacin was quantified once via high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The antioxidant activity of the chloroform extract and cucurbitacin E was assessed using the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging method, with vitamin C serving as the standard. In summer, the chloroform extract of leaves exhibits a higher concentration than the other extracts (11. μg ml^-1). However, in winter, the chloroform extract of fruits has a greater concentration (20 μg ml^-1). The hexane extract is not advisable for two seasons. The findings indicated a non- significant difference between the antioxidant efficacy of chloroform extract and cucurbitacin E, as assessed by the DPPH radical scavenging activity, with IC50 values of 0.75, 1.52, and 1.61 for vitamin C, chloroform extract, and cucurbitacin E, respectively.

Preparation of New Biofilms Suitable for Manufacturing Processes for A sustainable Environment

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Biodegradable biofilms are sustainable environmental solution and are increasingly important with the increasing awareness of consumers about the environment. This study aimed to prepare and characterize biodegradable poly-3-hydroxybutyrate (P3HB) films with improved physical and chemical properties after incorporation with plant extracts. These biofilms are antibacterial for use in food packaging and medical supplies. The new (P3HB) bioplastic films were prepared using casting technique. The prepared biofilms were the first P3HB/G (resulting from P3HB and ginger extract) and the second P3HB/C (resulting from P3HB and clove extract). All the mentioned biofilms were compared to the P3HB/M which was prepared from P3HB and chloroform only. The thickness, moisture, dissolvability and swelling of the new resulted biofilms were measured. Their chemical and morphological properties were studied using SEM and FTIR. Their ability to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli were evaluated, as well as their efficiency in food packaging and preservation. The obtained results demonstrated that the P3HB/C and P3HB/G films exhibit good chemical, physical and antibacterial properties due to the phytochemicals incorporated into the polyester polymer or loaded into their matrix. Thickness, moisture and swelling for P3HB/C and P3HB/G were significantly different; compared to P3HB/M. Yet, when comparing P3HB/C and P3HB/G, the moisture was the only markedly various. The prepared biodegradable packaging materials are great alternatives to conventional plastics since it could be friendly ones to environment

The Role of Biofertilizers and Sprouted Barley Grain Extract in Enhancing the Active Compound Content of Arugula Eruca vesicaria Mill Seeds Oil to Achieve Agricultural Sustainability

Hawraa H. Al-Jibawi, Abbas K. Mijwel — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Arugula contains compounds with therapeutic and preventive roles against many diseases, and it promotes overall health. Additionally, its seeds contain promising medicinal oil that general health and disease prevention. An experiment was conducted over two agricultural seasons (autumn 2023-2024 and spring 2024) using a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with a split-plot system in three replicates to enhance the quantity and quality of the oil in the seeds. The biostimulant treatments (A) were applied to the main plots, with A1 as the control (no addition), A2 treated with Trichoderma harzianum, and A3 treated with Bacillus subtilis. Amino acids (B) were organized within the sub-plots, including B1 as the control (water spray), B2 with Arginine 150 mg L-1, B3 with Tryptophan 150 mg L-1, and B4 with Phenylalanine 150 mg L-1. The treatment with sprouted barley seed extract (C) was applied in the sub-sub-plots, with C1 as the control, and C2 involved spraying the sprouted barley seed extract at a concentration of 100 g L-1. The results showed a positive and significant effect of the biostimulant treatments Trichoderma harzianum, Bacillus subtilis, amino acids Arginine, and Tryptophan, Phenylalanine, and sprouted barley seed extract, and their interactions, in increasing the concentrations of fatty acids in arugula seed oil, including Erucic, Palmitic, Stearic, Oleic, Lenolic, and Linolenic acids. This encourages the trend towards sustainable agriculture to enhance the health value of the oil while preserving the environment and the ecosystem.

Effect of Soaking Maize Seeds with Nano-Iron Fertilizer on Germination, Yield and Animal’s Physiological Characteristics toxicity

Zainab A. Hassan, Ahmed Ch. Al-Fahad, Saddam H. Cheyed — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

A field experiment was conducted during the spring season of 2021 in the Experimental field of the College of agricultural engineering sciences - university of Baghdad with the aim of knowing the effect of soaking seeds with nano-iron at concentrations of (0, 50, 100 and 150 mg L^-1) on seed viability, field emergence, grain yield and components and grain Iron content The results showed significant increase in germination indicators, seedling field emergence, grain yield and its components accompanied by an increase of nano-iron concentrations up to 150 mg L^-1. Moreover, the results of seed Iron content showed accumulated of toxic level of Nano-Iron in seeds. The toxicity includes imbalance liver’s functions, kidneys and oxidative imbalance of laboratory mice.

Identification of some transgenic maize genotypes collected from local markets at Baghdad

Dina K. Ibraheem, Majid Sh. Hamadalla — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Genetically modified organisms (GMO) are the organisms in which genes are altered by a gene modification technique but not by natural mating or DNA recombination. Twenty-two maize genotypes have been screened for detection the genetic modification, which collected from local markets in Baghdad. Three samples were taken for each genotype in the period from December 2023 to January 2024. DNA extraction was done using plantZol kit. The reference material, for positive control of Bt-11, CTAB DNA extraction method was used. Conventional PCR and Quantitative Real-time PCR were used for detection the transgenic maize genotypes. Three pairs of primers, namely, CaMV-35S, NOS and Bt-11 were used, in addition to genes zein and β-actin. A 77%, 68% and 100% of the samples were found to carry the CaMV35s, Nos, Bt-11 genes according to conventional PCR suggesting widespread presence of GM maize in the Iraqi market. The Ct values of the modified genes were higher than its corresponding of housekeeping gene suggesting a possible high representation of GMO maize in the Iraqi market. The MOM average of CaMV-35S and T-Nos was 1.09 and 1.05 respectively. The copy number average of 22 genotypes of maize samples for Bt-11 was 28.4. The current study showed spread of modified genes and contamination of local genotypes of maize with genetically modified genes. This matter requires a continuous survey of local genotypes of crops grown in the Iraqi environment, with the necessity of activating legislation that limits the spread of genetically modified materials.

Producing the organic Roselle crop and improving its growth, fruiting, and chemical constituents using a biostimulant compound.

Sudad K. Al-Taweel, Aws A. Mohammed, R.A.A. Al-Asadi — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) is an annual shrub with a multipurpose crop with great economic potential to increase the income of farmers and processors in some countries worldwide from the export and local markets. Therefore, two successive seasons (2020 and 2021) were conducted to investigate how fertilization either organic manure or chemical fertilizer and foliar application of Appetizer (App) and their combination could affect the plant growth, yield, and chemical composition of Roselle plant. The treatments used App. solely at 3 rates (0, 4, 6 g L^-1), in interaction with the total dose of organic manure or chemical fertilizer, or with a half dose of both fertilizers. Also, values were tested for each fertilizer applied solely at a total dose and in interaction at a half dose. It was found that spraying Roselle plants with App positively increased all parameters studied over the control. However, such an increase was greatly enhanced when the App. was combined with fertilization. Whereas, the highest records of growth characters, the chemical constituents of roselle plant, ascorbic acid, and carbohydrate resulted from half doses of chemical and organic manure with 4 and 6 g L^-1 of App. While the highest values of all yield characters were obtained from the combination of chemical fertilizer at total dose and App at 4 g L^-1, respectively, it was discovered, as well, that organic manure applied solely or combined with App gave high values that were so close and superior, in some cases, to those of chemical fertilizer. Hence, organically speaking, it is recommended that if there are fewer harmful and healthier products in agriculture, organic manure, either alone or combined with App, is still of high value for plant yield, especially when integrated with 4g L^-1 App.

New Record of Euryhaliotrema cardinale Kritsky & Justine, 2012 and Euryhaliotrema seyi Kritsky, 2012 (Monogenoidea: Dactylogyridae) from Lutjanid Fishes in Iraqi Marine Waters

Ali A.R. Al-Darwesh, Atheer H. Ali — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Parasitological examination of three species of marine fishes: Blackspot snapper Lutjanus ehrenbergii (Peters), Dory snapper L. fulviflamma (Forsskål) and L. indicus Allen, White & Erdmann (all Lutjanidae, Snappers); caught from Iraqi marine waters, Arabian Gulf during 2024. All these fishes are harboured the same dactylogyrid monogenoid which identified as Euryhaliotrema seyi Kritsky, 2012. Lutjanus ehrenbergii and L. fulviflamma also harboured Euryhaliotrema cardinale Kritsky & Justine in Kritsky, 2012 which considered this record in a new geographical area (Arabian Gulf). The illustrations of whole mount specimens for E. cardinale and E. seyi are given for the first time. This report represents the second work on monogenoids from lutjanid fishes in Iraq.

Developing A Nano-Fertilizer of Iron Oxide NPs Using Yeast Extract and Studying its Effectiveness on the Growth and Germination of Nigella sativa Seeds

Jihan Y. Al-Hatem, Duha A. Kadhim, Muslim A. Abid — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

The use of nanofertilizers has increased dramatically in the last several years. Environmentally sustainable Fe₂O₃-nano-fertilizers are important for improving agricultural yields and physics. However, overuse of chemical nanofertilizers can have negative effects on both human health and the environment. Soil and plants are the most vital natural resources for human life and development, and both collect high concentrations of residues from nano-fertilizers. Numerous techniques have been proposed for producing nano fertilizers aimed at enhancing the germination rate, wetness, length, power, and dry weight of seedlings. A fresh study on the effects of hydrothermally prepared nano fertilizers made from yeast extract on the development and germination of Nigella sativa seeds. Fe₂O₃-Nano particles were produced with an average crystallite size of 12–39 nm, as shown by XRD. The FE-SEM-Pictures of Fe₂O₃-NPs display the morphologies of Nanostructures or Nano tapes. Fe₂O₃-NPs' optical properties reveal an absorbance band and an energy bandgap with maximal absorbance peaks at 231 nm and optical energy gaps of 3,8 eV, respectively. The outcome the impact of nano fertilizers (Fe₂O₃) on the development and germination of Nigella sativa seeds has been investigated through this activity. The study's treatments had a significant impact on the germination period; For example, when soaked in a suspension of baking yeast at a concentration of 1 g L^-1, the germination period dropped to 14.71 days from 18.10 days for the control treatment. Less soaked in 1 mg L^-1 of Nano Bread Yeast Extract, the Germination Duration was 14.16 days.

Depth Function of Available Phosphorus and Potassium Distribution in Different Mid-Mesopotamian Plain Saline Soils

Kusay A. Wheib, Afrah K. Al-Jubouri, Husian A. Isa, Wejdan T. Kadhim — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

Saline soils in Alsweira greater area representing mid-Mesopotamian plain saline soils were selected to study the effect of salt accumulation on available potassium and phosphorus in soil as a depth function. Strip transect area representing sever salt affected areas was located and soil samples was chosen along that transect. Results showed that soil salinization phases in the area was Chloridic and sulphatic salinization, therefore it affected the salt distribution in soils. The most dominant salt compound was sodium chloride in Chloridic salinization soils, while sodium sulphate was the dominant salt compound in sulphatic salinization areas. Results showed that the content of available phosphorus was fairly low while available potassium showed different ranges in soil. Available potassium was significantly positive correlated to electrical conductivity (ECe) while available phosphorus was significantly negative correlated with ECe. These results were figured as depth functions of these available nutrients in soil where the highest content of available potassium was in the upper horizon decreasing with depth, while available phosphorus showed a significant decrease with depth as soil salinity decreases with depth.

Combined effect of nano boron,zinc, bio-inoculum and white fungus waste on P. aeruginosa numbers and amidase activity in soil.

Zahraa J. Al-Budairy, Luma S. Al-Taweel — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

An experiment was conducted at an agricultural site affiliated with the Department of Agricultural Research at the Diwaniyah Research Station in Iraq on January 15,2024. The aim was to investigate the effects of three study factors, the first factor, a biofertilizer represented by P. aeruginosa bacteria, symbolized as B, applied at two levels (no addition of P. aeruginosa B0, addition P. aeruginosa B1), the second factor, white mushroom waste, symbolized as Ab, added at three levels, (no addition of Ab0, 5 tons h^-1 as a second level Ab1, 10 tons h^-1 as a third level Ab2), and the third factor, a nanofertilizer symbolized as N, applied at four levels, (no addition N0, 4 kg h^-1 nanozinc N1, 2 kg h^-1 nanoboron N2, and 1 kg h^-1 nanoboron + 2 kg h^-1 nanozinc N3). These factors were tested for their effects on the number of the bacteria P. aeruginosa and stimulation of amidase enzyme activity in the first harvest of stevia crop. The statistically analyzed data indicated that the synergistic effect between the three study factors showed significant superiority through increasing the number of P. aeruginosa bacteria and the activity of the amidase enzyme during the two periods, Considering that for the two periods in view, it recorded (153.7,137.7) ×10⁷ CFU g^-1 dry soil and (265.33, 163.00) µg N-NH₄⁺ g^-1 soil 2h^-1, respectively, while the control treatment recorded the lowest values during two periods, with (44.3,24.7) CFU g^-1 dry soil and (61.33,21.67) µg N-NH₄⁺g^-1 soil 2h^-1, respectively.

Effect of the developed moldboard plow on the pulverization index of soil under various forward speeds

Ali S.J. Al-Mansouri, Sadiq J. Muhsin — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

A field experiment was conducted at the Agricultural Research Station, College of Agriculture, University of Basrah, Karmat Ali site. To study the effect of the developed moldboard plow to pulverization index of soil. The experiment was designed according to a complete randomized block design using the split-split plot method in a factorial experiment with three factors (two types of moldboards, three additions of finned harrows and three levels of forward speeds). Add-ing fins to the moldboard significantly affected the soil pulverization index, with the finned mold-board (M2) achieving a lower index of 33.95 mm compared to the traditional plow (M1) at 47.84 mm. Needle harrows also influenced soil fragmentation, where double fins harrows (H2) achieved the lowest pulverization index of 23.13 mm, followed by single needle harrows (H1) at 32.59 mm, while no harrows (H0) had the highest index at 66.96 mm. Increased forward speed reduced the pulverization index from 46.49 mm at 1.5 km/h to 36.06 mm at 3.5 km/h. The combination of for-ward speed and needle harrows further impacted soil fragmentation. The lowest pulverization in-dex of 21.8 mm occurred with the finned plow and double fin harrows (M2*H2), while the tradi-tional plow without harrows (M1*H0) showed the highest index at 81.62 mm. The interaction of speed, plow type, and needle harrows (S3*M2*H2) yielded the lowest pulverization index of 18.48 mm, while the highest index, 86.26 mm, was recorded for the combination (S1*M1*H0).

Prediction of Traction Requirements and Slippage Percentage for Three Plow Types under Various Operational Conditions

Mustafa F. Almoosa, Salim A. Almaliki, Salah M. S. Al-Atab — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study aims to predict the traction requirements represented by draft force and slippage percentage under different soil moisture levels (7, 14, 22, and 28%), using three plows namely: - moldboard plow, chisel plow and disk plow, Three tillage depths (15, 20, 25 cm) and three forward speeds (1.83, 3.06, 5.22 km/h) were tested in clay loam soil in Qurna, Basra. Data were analyzed using Design Expert software to model draft force, slippage, and tractor performance. Based on the results obtained, it is found that the draft force increased by 62.84% and 29.05% when the depth was increased from 15 to 25 cm and the speed from 1.83 to 5.22 km h^-1 respectively. Meanwhile, the slippage increased by 78.27 and 54.79% when the depth was increased from 15 to 25 cm and speed from 1.83 to 5.22 km h^-¹ respectively. Moreover, soil moisture at 14% gave the lowest draft force and slippage, reaching 10334 N and 12.39%, respectively, compared to other moisture levels. The results show that the use of the disk plow recorded the lowest draft force and slippage of 9966 N and 15.90%, while the use of the moldboard plow led to an increase in the draft force and slippage as it reached 12671 N and 19.02% respectively. The data analysis shows that the developed model has a good ability for prediction compared to the field data, as the coefficients of determination of the draft force and slippage are 0.9531 and 0.9480 respectively.

The Impact of Biofertilizers, Organic Fertilizers, and Foliar Application of Boron on Yield Characteristics of Maize (Zea mays L.)

Mohammed R. Ajeel, Mohammed M. Hamid Hamid, Ismail R. Al-Shahbani — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study took place under silty loam soil conditions at the Al-Musayyib project site (Babil Governorate, Iraq) from 15 July to 10 November 2024, to assess the interactive effects of biofertilizers, applied organic manure, and boron foliar application on yield attributes of maize (Zea mays L. Al-Maha). An experiment laid down in factorial arrangements in randomized complete block design (RCBD) consisted of three factors: an Azotobacter and Azospirillum seed inoculation (uninoculated, inoculated) and sheep manure in quantities of 0, 10, and 20 Mg ha⁻¹ and boron (boric acid) applied as a foliar treatment at levels of 0, 75, and 150 mg L⁻¹. Biofertilization in combination with high rates of organic manure and foliar spraying of boron gave great responses in the major yield components of dry matter yield, grains per cob, and total grain yield. The three-way interaction between the applied treatments achieved a significant contribution in synergy for all measured yield attributes. The results point towards the opportunity for integrated nutrient management to improve maize productivity under silty loam conditions as a feasible alternative to conventional fertilization approaches

Assessing Seasonal Variations of Vegetation Cover Using NDVI in Context Climate Change in Wasit

Mohanad I. Khalbas, Jasim H. Kadhum — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0300

This study assesses and analyzes the annual and seasonal changes in the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) in Wasit Province, Iraq, between 2020 and 2023. Vegetation cover (VC) variation serves as a key indicator of climate change impacts on ecosystems and agricultural productivity. The research employs satellite-derived NDVI and climate data to detect spatiotemporal changes across the region. Geographically, the Tigris River divides Wasit into two zones: the southern and southwestern parts exhibit higher NDVI values due to abundant water from river branches, whereas the northern and northeastern areas show lower values. A slight improvement in VC was observed in December 2020, likely due to increased Tigris River discharges. Findings indicate a gradual NDVI increase over the study period, with the highest value recorded during summer 2023 (2.94%), highlighting the role of irrigation and modern agricultural practices in enhancing VC beyond the influence of climate factors. Seasonal variations were evident, with summer NDVI values generally exceeding those in winter; the highest winter NDVI was in 2021 (2.40%). Three statistical methods were applied: correlation analysis, linear regression, and ANOVA. Results showed a weak negative correlation between NDVI and precipitation (r = -0.60), and a negligible correlation with air temperature (r = 0.06). ANOVA confirmed significant differences in NDVI values across the years (p = 0.0039), indicating real ecological changes rather than random variation. Using the ARIMA model for forecasting, NDVI is expected to continue a slight upward trend, reaching 0.442 in 2024 and 0.463 in 2025. This suggests a positive vegetation response driven more by improved agricultural and water management practices than by climatic changes.